Lighting Regulations in New Carlisle, Indiana: Preserving Heritage While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled in St. Joseph County, New Carlisle, Indiana combines small-town charm with a deep appreciation for its historical roots. Founded in 1835 by Richard Carlisle and incorporated in 1866, this community of approximately 1,860 residents takes pride in its heritage, as evidenced by its historic district's listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

New Carlisle's lighting regulations reflect this careful balance between preserving the town's historical character and meeting contemporary needs for safety and functionality. These regulations aim to ensure adequate illumination while preventing light pollution that could detract from the town's charm or create safety hazards.

Quick Reference Guide to New Carlisle Lighting Regulations

• Applicability: Regulations apply to multi-family residential, commercial/town center, industrial, and planned unit development districts
• Fixture Types: Requirements for cutoff, semi-cutoff, and non-cutoff fixtures with specific height and wattage limitations
• Historic Considerations: Historic buildings require lighting that preserves architectural character
• Prohibited Lighting: Flashing lights, most ground-mounted floodlights, and string lights (except holiday decorations)
• Technical Requirements: Specific mounting heights, wattage limits, and placement regulations
• Documentation: Detailed lighting plans required for many developments

Understanding New Carlisle's Lighting Philosophy

Historical Preservation and Modern Needs

New Carlisle's approach to lighting reflects its commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while ensuring safety and functionality. The town's historic district designation influences how lighting is implemented, with regulations specifying that historic buildings may have their "light fixtures, steps, paving and signs" altered only "in a manner that will preserve the historical and architectural character of the building."

Core Lighting Goals

According to Section 152.210 of the town code, New Carlisle's lighting regulations aim to provide illumination levels that:

• Ensure safe and efficient movement of individuals and vehicles
• Protect against light spillover onto adjacent properties
• Prevent objectionable glare onto public rights-of-way that might impair driver vision

Technical Requirements for Outdoor Lighting

Fixture Specifications and Heights

New Carlisle has established clear standards for different types of lighting fixtures:

• Non-cutoff fixtures:
• Maximum combined pole and base height: 20 feet
• Maximum wattage: 100 watts
• Semi-cutoff fixtures:
• Maximum combined pole and base height: 30 feet
• Maximum wattage: 400 watts
• Cutoff fixtures:
• Height limit of 35 feet with 400 unit output
• Height limit of 40 feet with 1,000 unit output

Sport and Athletic Field Lighting

Special regulations apply to sport and athletic field lighting:

• Maximum height: Cannot exceed 110 feet above grade
• Spill and glare control: Must utilize manufacturer's spill and glare control package

Wall-Mounted Lighting

• In commercial areas, wall pack fixtures on front or side elevations must be full cutoff
• When facing residential areas, wall pack fixtures must be full cutoff
• Low-intensity architectural wall packs (100 watts or less) permitted for accent lighting

Special Applications and Exemptions

Canopy and Awning Lighting

• Vehicular canopy light fixtures (like gas stations) must be full cutoff with maximum 400 watts
• Awnings and canopies may be internally illuminated if the primary material is opaque

Exemptions

Several types of lighting are exempt from certain regulations:

• Holiday decorations
• Public lighting in parks, rights-of-way, and public facilities
• Fossil fuel lighting (kerosene lanterns, gas lamps)
• Single-family/two-family dwelling outdoor lighting (subject to glare performance standards)

Temporary Lighting

Temporary lighting for civic and special events is permitted with limitations:

• Maximum of 3 occurrences during a calendar year
• Limited to 2 consecutive days per event
• Cannot operate between midnight and 8:00 a.m.
• Searchlights limited to one portable, rotating unit

Prohibited Lighting Types

New Carlisle clearly defines lighting that is not permitted:

• Flashing or animated lights that "flash, move, revolve, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker, vary in intensity or color, or use intermittent electrical pulsation"
• Non-compliant floodlights or unauthorized outdoor fixture types
• String lights outlining lot lines or outdoor display areas (except holiday decorations)

Sign Illumination Requirements

Town Center District

The Town Center District has special sign illumination requirements:

• No internal illumination permitted for signs
• Sign illumination must be provided by:
• Decorative sconces or coach lights
• Gooseneck lamps with metal shades
• Wall-wash lights behind opaque letters
• Shielded up-lights mounted beneath the sign

General Sign Illumination

• Illumination cannot use exposed neon or exterior lighting like spotlights
• No flashing or animated lights permitted as part of signage

Documentation and Approval Requirements

Lighting Plan Requirements

When submitting lighting plans, the following details must be included:

• North arrow and site address
• Scale (not more than 1 inch = 100 feet)
• Development name
• Site boundary dimensions
• Building and structure outlines
• Location of all outdoor light fixtures
• Fixture specifications including:
• Classification (cutoff, semi-cutoff, full cutoff, or non-cutoff)
• Mounting height
• Wattage proposed for each fixture
• Manufacturer's catalog sheets or photometric reports

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Your Property Classification

The lighting requirements that apply to your property depend on its classification:

• Residential properties: Single-family and two-family dwellings have fewer restrictions
• Multi-family, commercial, and industrial properties: Subject to comprehensive lighting regulations

Planning for Compliance

Before installing or modifying exterior lighting:

• Consult Section 152.210-152.215 of the New Carlisle code
• Prepare lighting documentation if required for your project
• Consider historic district requirements if your property is in or near the historic district

Rate Information

For those utilizing municipal lighting services:

• Various rates apply for different types of street and security lighting
• LED, metal halide, and high-pressure sodium options available
• Maintenance fees vary by lamp type and wattage

Supporting New Carlisle's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate New Carlisle's commitment to preserving its unique historical character while providing safe, functional lighting for its residents. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share similar values regarding the importance of maintaining community character.

Our experience with communities like New Carlisle has taught us the importance of balancing historical preservation with modern lighting needs. We understand how proper lighting can enhance architectural features of historic buildings while providing necessary illumination for safety and security.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations. We're committed to helping towns like New Carlisle maintain their distinctive character while implementing appropriate lighting solutions that complement their architectural heritage.

Our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting needs makes us a valuable partner for communities seeking to preserve their historic charm while embracing modern lighting technology. We believe in supporting New Carlisle's vision of a well-lit community that honors its past while looking to the future.

Conclusion

New Carlisle's lighting regulations reflect the town's dedication to preserving its historical character while ensuring adequate illumination for safety and functionality. By establishing clear standards for fixture types, heights, and illumination methods, the town maintains its unique charm while meeting the needs of residents and businesses.

Property owners planning lighting installations or modifications should carefully review the applicable sections of the town code and consult with local officials when necessary. With proper planning and attention to detail, lighting can enhance New Carlisle's architectural heritage while providing necessary illumination for generations to come.