Lighting Regulations in Middletown, Rhode Island: Preserving Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled on Aquidneck Island between Newport and Portsmouth, Middletown, Rhode Island, has a rich history dating back to its incorporation in 1743. Originally established when freeholders in northern Newport sought independence due to issues like unjust taxation, Middletown has evolved into both a residential suburb and the central business district of Aquidneck Island.

With significant historical sites like Whitehall (built in 1729) and the Norman Bird Sanctuary and Museum, Middletown demonstrates a strong commitment to preserving its cultural and architectural heritage. This commitment extends to the town's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to balance safety and functionality with historical preservation and environmental considerations.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

• Correlated Color Temperature (CCT): Light sources must have a "warm" CCT at or below 3000K
• Residential Light Trespass: Maximum of 0.1 footcandle onto residential properties
• Non-residential Light Trespass: Maximum of 1.0 footcandle onto non-residential properties
• Fixture Height Restrictions: Maximum 20 feet for fully-shielded fixtures; 16 feet for fixtures that aren't fully shielded
• Dark Sky Compliance: International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) approved fixtures are preferred
• Sign Illumination: White light only, not exceeding 450 lumens
• Adult Establishments: Minimum illumination of 1 footcandle at floor level

General Outdoor Lighting Requirements

Middletown's comprehensive outdoor lighting regulations (Article 27B) aim to protect drivers and pedestrians from glare, shield neighbors and the environment from light trespass, promote energy efficiency, and preserve the town's visual character.

Applicability

These regulations apply to all outdoor lighting except single-family and two-family residential uses. The town may require or restrict lighting when public health, safety, and welfare are concerns.

Exemptions

Several lighting uses are exempt from most requirements:

• Temporary decorative lighting (exempt from all but glare-control requirements)
• Emergency lighting
• Lighting used at Newport State Airport or required by federal, state, or local law
• Construction site lighting
• Lighting for town-permitted events

Fixture Design Requirements

• Fixtures must be appropriate to the lighting application
• For horizontal surfaces (roadways, sidewalks, parking lots): Fully-shielded fixtures aimed straight down
• For non-horizontal surfaces (facades, landscaping, monuments): Fixtures must be located, aimed, and shielded to avoid nuisances
• International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) approved fixtures are preferred and strongly encouraged

Light Trespass and Glare Control

Middletown takes light trespass seriously, with specific measurable standards to protect neighboring properties.

Residential Protection

• Light projected onto a residential property must not exceed 0.1 footcandle, measured line-of-sight from any point on the receiving property

Commercial Protection

• Light projected onto a non-residential property must not exceed 1.0 footcandle, measured line-of-sight from any point on the receiving property

Glare Reduction Methods

• Primary Control: Achieved through fixture location, aiming, design, shielding, and appropriate illumination levels
• Vegetation: Cannot serve as the primary means for controlling glare

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Cannabis Establishments

• Must be adequately illuminated, including surrounding areas, parking lots, and adjoining sidewalks
• No illumination visible from exterior between 10:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. except for security
• Security lighting must be motion-sensor only
• Perimeter fence lighting must illuminate all sides for at least 20 feet from fence

Adult-Oriented Establishments

• Must be well-lighted whenever open for business
• Overhead lighting must illuminate every patron-accessible area at an intensity of at least 1 footcandle, measured at floor level

Commercial and Mixed-Use Properties

• Outdoor lighting must be extinguished by 11:00 p.m. or within 30 minutes after closing
• Exceptions for pedestrian pathways and resident parking areas
• Motion-sensor controlled lighting encouraged for after-hours security

Technical Specifications and Requirements

Fixture Installation

• Underground Wiring: Electrical feeds for pole-mounted fixtures in parking areas must run underground
• Pole Placement: Must be at least 5 feet outside paved areas or on concrete pedestals at least 30 inches high
• Maximum Height: 20 feet for fully-shielded fixtures; 16 feet for fixtures that aren't fully shielded
• Canopy Lighting: Must use flat-lens, fully-shielded fixtures aimed straight down

Documentation Requirements

When applying for permits, the following must be provided:

• Fixture locations, mounting heights, orientation, and aiming direction
• Fixture types, lamp types, and photometry
• Correlated color temperature (for LED lighting)
• Fixture catalog information
• Glare reduction devices
• Control devices
• Installation details

Sign Illumination Regulations

Allowed Illumination

• External Illumination: Allowed in all zoning districts
• Reverse-channel/halo lit letters: Allowed in GB, LB, OB, OP, and LI zoning districts
• Source Requirements: Must be shielded and directed downward at the sign
• Specifications: White light only, not exceeding 450 lumens (approximately 30 watts of incandescent light)

Prohibited Illumination

• Internally illuminated box/cabinet signs: Not allowed in any zoning district
• Strings of lights: Prohibited except for holiday displays or grand opening signs
• Flashing signs: Prohibited
• Illuminated window signs: Prohibited, including neon, LED, and any other illumination method
• Signs with sparkling/twinkling elements: Prohibited

Time Restrictions

• Signs shall not be illuminated after 11:00 p.m. unless the premises are open

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Process

When installing or modifying outdoor lighting, property owners must:

1. Submit detailed lighting plans showing fixture locations, types, and specifications
2. Include calculations demonstrating compliance with footcandle limits at property lines
3. Ensure coordination between site lighting and landscaping to prevent conflicts
4. Understand that post-approval alterations require town approval before installation

Non-Conforming Lighting

Existing lighting that doesn't conform to regulations is considered lawful non-conformance, but must be brought into compliance when:

• Minor corrective action can achieve compliance
• The lighting is deemed a safety hazard
• Fixtures are replaced or relocated
• There is a change in use of the property

Supporting Middletown's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Middletown's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing modern lighting technology. With deep understanding of regional architectural styles, Bock appreciates Middletown's balance between safety needs, functionality, and historical preservation.

As a resource for communities like Middletown, Bock brings expertise in lighting solutions that respect local regulations while enhancing community character. Bock's commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices aligns well with Middletown's vision for reducing light pollution and protecting its distinctive coastal aesthetic.

Bock's experience with projects that respect community character makes them a valuable partner for those seeking to maintain Middletown's unique blend of historical charm and modern functionality.

Conclusion

Middletown's lighting regulations reflect the town's commitment to preserving its historic character while ensuring safety and functionality. By carefully balancing these priorities, the town maintains its distinctive charm while meeting modern needs.

For property owners, understanding these regulations before undertaking lighting projects can save time and resources. The technical specifications outlined above provide clear guidance for compliance, helping to maintain Middletown's character for generations to come.

Whether illuminating a commercial property, planning signage, or developing new construction, adhering to these regulations contributes to the town's vision of a well-lit community that respects both its historical roots and natural environment.