Lighting Regulations in McLean County, Kentucky: Preserving Historic Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

McLean County, Kentucky, established in 1854, boasts a rich heritage dating back to its namesake, Judge Alney McLean, who served as a captain in the War of 1812 and later as a circuit judge. The county's character, defined by its low hills and broad flat valleys, has supported a historically agricultural economy supplemented by coal and timber production.

The county seat of Calhoun developed into an industrial hub featuring steam sawmills, flour mills, and furniture manufacturing by the 1990s. This blend of agricultural and industrial heritage has shaped McLean County's approach to development, including its lighting regulations.

Though limited in scope, McLean County's lighting ordinances reflect a practical approach to balancing safety needs with preservation of the area's character and preventing light pollution that would detract from its rural charm.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Before diving into details, here's a summary of McLean County's most important lighting regulations:

• Public Safety Lighting:
• Red warning lamps required at excavation sites that obstruct public ways
• Mobile home parks must have well-lit streets meeting county standards
• Commercial Restrictions:
• Adult establishments must maintain minimum illumination of 10 foot-candles
• Business district allows lighting but prohibits flashing lights
• Cellular towers cannot be illuminated except when required by state/federal regulations
• General Guidelines:
• Limited storage areas in flood zones may only have essential lighting
• Excessive lighting is prohibited unless required by federal/state regulations

Public Safety Lighting Requirements

Warning Lights for Public Way Obstructions

Safety is a primary concern when it comes to excavation work in public areas. McLean County regulations specifically address this with clear requirements:

• Minimum of two illuminated red lamps must be installed at or near each end of an obstruction during nighttime
• One additional lamp required for each additional 50 feet of obstruction (or portion thereof)
• Maintenance responsibility falls to the person creating the obstruction

Mobile Home Park Illumination

For residential safety in mobile home communities, McLean County requires:

• All streets within mobile home parks must be well-lighted
• Lighting must meet the standards of street lighting in the county

This requirement ensures residents can safely navigate these communities after dark while maintaining consistency with other county roadways.

Commercial and Business Lighting Standards

Business District Lighting

McLean County permits lighting in its business and commercial districts, but with specific limitations:

• Lighting is permitted in the central business district
• No flashing lights of any kind are allowed
• Signs and advertising devices on buildings must be flat and extend no more than 12 inches from the building (unless waived by committee)

Adult Establishment Requirements

Adult establishments have specific lighting requirements focused on safety:

• Premises must be equipped with overhead lighting fixtures of sufficient intensity to illuminate every patron-accessible area
• Minimum illumination of 10 foot-candles measured at floor level
• Owners/operators must ensure this illumination is maintained whenever patrons are present

Cellular Tower Illumination

To limit light pollution in McLean County's scenic areas, cellular antenna towers have specific restrictions:

• Towers shall not be illuminated except when required by state or federal regulations

Flood Zone and Limited Storage Lighting

Essential Lighting in Flood Zones

In areas designated for limited storage in flood zones, McLean County allows:

• Essential lighting only in limited storage areas
• These areas must otherwise be void of utilities and not temperature controlled
• Materials must be flood-resistant with low flood damage potential

This practical exception ensures safety while minimizing potential flood damage to electrical systems.

General Lighting Policies

Excessive Lighting Prohibition

McLean County takes a stance against unnecessary light pollution:

• Excessive lighting is prohibited throughout the county
• Exceptions are made only when required by federal or state regulations

Residential Signage

In residential districts, McLean County specifies that:

• Real estate signs advertising sale, rental, or lease of premises must be unlighted

This helps maintain the tranquil character of residential neighborhoods while reducing unnecessary illumination.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

Understanding McLean County's lighting regulations before starting construction or renovation projects can save time and money. Here are practical tips for property owners:

• Check zoning classification first, as requirements differ between residential and commercial areas
• Consult with county officials about specific projects that may have lighting implications
• Consider the county's rural character when planning exterior lighting
• Remember that excessive lighting is prohibited unless otherwise required

Historical Context Considerations

McLean County's approach to lighting reflects its agricultural and industrial heritage:

• Minimal lighting regulations preserve the rural night sky
• Focus on safety rather than aesthetic lighting controls
• Practical approach that balances modern needs with historical character

Supporting McLean County's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the balance that communities like McLean County strive to achieve between preserving their historical character and meeting modern safety needs. With roots dating back to 1918, our experience with regional architectural styles and lighting requirements makes us a valuable resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations.

We appreciate McLean County's practical approach to lighting that prioritizes safety while limiting excessive illumination that would detract from its rural character. Our team can help explain how these regulations apply to specific projects, offering guidance that aligns with the county's vision.

As a manufacturer committed to responsible lighting practices, we share McLean County's apparent concern for reducing unnecessary light while ensuring sufficient illumination where needed for safety. We believe that thoughtful lighting enhances community character rather than detracting from it.

Conclusion

McLean County's lighting regulations, though limited in scope, provide a framework that emphasizes safety while preserving the county's rural and historical character. The focus on preventing excessive lighting except where necessary for safety aligns with modern concerns about light pollution while accommodating practical needs.

Property owners should pay particular attention to specific requirements for their property type, especially those operating businesses or managing public spaces. By understanding and complying with these regulations, residents and business owners contribute to maintaining McLean County's unique character while ensuring safety for all.

Remember that regulations may evolve over time, so consulting with county officials about specific projects is always recommended to ensure compliance with current standards.