Lighting Regulations in Mattoon, Illinois: A Complete Guide for Property Owners

Introduction

Nestled in east-central Illinois, Mattoon traces its origins back to 1855 when the expansion of the railroad system shaped the city's development. Named after William B. Mattoon, a railroad engineer instrumental in constructing the Terre Haute and Alton Railroad, the city has grown while maintaining its connection to its historical roots.

Today, Mattoon balances modern development needs with preservation of its community character. This balance is reflected in the city's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to ensure safety and functionality while respecting the aesthetic priorities of this community of approximately 14,668 residents.

Quick Reference Guide to Mattoon's Lighting Requirements

For property owners seeking quick information, here are the key lighting regulations in Mattoon:

• Light Trespass Limits: Maximum of one-half footcandle at property lines
• Commercial/Industrial Lighting: Must be fully-shielded (full-cutoff)
• Parking Area Lighting: Between one and two footcandles average
• Mounting Height Restrictions: Not to exceed average roof height or 40 feet (whichever is less)
• Unshielded Residential Fixtures: Cannot exceed 10 feet in height
• Car Dealerships: Maximum of 30 footcandles or average of 25 footcandles
• Sign Illumination: No flashing lights or bare bulbs exceeding 25 watts

General Lighting Requirements

Preventing Light Trespass

The city code specifically addresses the issue of light trespass, requiring that all lighting be arranged to contain direct illumination on the property where the light source is located. The light must be directed:

• Away from nearby residential properties
• Away from the vision of motorists on adjacent streets
• With a maximum of one-half footcandle at lot lines (except at ingress/egress points)

Shielding Requirements

Mattoon requires that all commercial and industrial outdoor lighting be fully-shielded (full-cutoff). This means outdoor light fixtures must be shielded or constructed so that no light rays are emitted above the horizontal plane.

However, the city may waive this requirement to allow for appropriate historic or decorative lighting fixtures, recognizing the importance of maintaining Mattoon's aesthetic character.

Mounting Height Restrictions

The mounting height of outdoor lighting must not exceed:

• The average roof height of the principal building to which it relates, or
• 40 feet maximum (whichever is less)
• Unshielded residential and pedestrian fixtures: Limited to 10 feet in height

Specific Area Lighting Standards

Parking Area Illumination

Mattoon has established specific light level requirements for parking areas:

• Average light level: Between one and two footcandles
• Maximum to minimum ratio: Not to exceed 8:1
• Average to minimum ratio: Not to exceed 6:1

These standards ensure parking areas are safely illuminated without creating excessive brightness that could disturb neighboring properties.

Car Dealerships

Car dealerships have special lighting allowances:

• Maximum light level: 30 footcandles
• Average light level: 25 footcandles

Multi-Lot Developments

For developments spanning multiple lots, the code requires unified lighting standards, including:

• Consistent mounting height across the development
• Uniform fixture style

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Drive-Up Windows

For businesses with drive-up windows licensed for alcoholic liquor sales, the lighting requirements are quite specific:

• Must be adequately lighted during business hours with natural or artificial white light
• From sunset until closing: Minimum of two 300-watt incandescent lamps (or equivalent)
• Lamp spacing: At least eight feet apart
• Positioning: Located directly over or near the drive-up window
• Light direction: Must effectively illuminate the outside area immediately adjacent to the window

Sexually Oriented Businesses

Mattoon's code establishes higher illumination standards for sexually oriented businesses:

• Minimum illumination level: 50 foot candles measured at floor level
• Coverage: Every place patrons are permitted access, including restrooms
• Duration: This illumination must be maintained whenever any patron is present

Cannabis Facilities

Medical cannabis dispensaries and adult-use dispensaries must follow these lighting regulations:

• Prohibited lighting: No flashing lights, search lights, spot lights, or similar lighting systems
• Security requirement: Must provide and maintain adequate security lighting for safety and theft prevention
• Surveillance: Parking area, client entrance, sales area, back room, storage areas, and delivery areas must be monitored

Sign Illumination Standards

General Sign Lighting Requirements

The city code provides clear guidelines for sign illumination:

• Shielding requirement: Light sources must be shaded, shielded, or directed to prevent adverse effects on surrounding premises
• Safety considerations: Light must not affect the safe vision of vehicle operators
• Residential protection: Light shall not shine on or into neighboring residential structures
• Prohibited features:
• Bare bulb illumination exceeding 25 watts per bulb
• Festoon lights (groups of exposed light bulbs strung overhead)
• Flashing signs (changing illumination more frequently than every five seconds)

Electronic Message Boards

For electronic message boards, the regulations include:

• Animation timing: Displays showing movement or changing lighting must take at least two seconds to complete
• Movement limitations: Individual movements within a display cannot occur more rapidly than 2½ times per second
• Prohibited effects: Flashing, blinking, or pulsation lights depicting sudden actions like explosions are not allowed

Administrative Oversight

The Commissioner of Streets and Public Improvement has charge of street lighting, alleys, parking lots, public grounds, bridges, viaducts, subways, and buildings not otherwise assigned by law. This oversight includes:

• Control and management of lighting in public areas
• Management of electrical connections to public utility corporations
• Issuing permits for electrical connections

The city may also require filing plans, drawings, and photographs showing lighting installations in certain cases to ensure compliance with regulations.

Supporting Mattoon's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Mattoon's commitment to preserving historical character while meeting modern lighting needs. Our understanding of communities like Mattoon helps us appreciate the balance between safety, functionality, and preserving local aesthetic values.

With our experience in projects that respect community character, we recognize the importance of Mattoon's lighting regulations in maintaining the city's unique charm while ensuring adequate lighting for safety and security.

As lighting professionals committed to sustainable and responsible practices, we value the opportunity to serve as a resource for communities seeking to understand and implement effective lighting solutions that align with local regulations.

Conclusion

Mattoon's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to balancing functionality, safety, and aesthetic considerations. From general requirements that prevent light trespass to specific standards for different types of businesses and properties, these regulations help maintain the character of the community while ensuring adequate illumination.

Property owners should familiarize themselves with these requirements before installing or modifying lighting systems to ensure compliance with city code. By following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to preserving Mattoon's unique community atmosphere while maintaining practical lighting solutions.

Remember that lighting regulations may be updated or modified over time, so it's always advisable to check with city officials for the most current requirements before undertaking lighting projects.