Lighting Regulations in Newcomerstown, Ohio: Preserving History While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Ohio, Newcomerstown boasts a rich historical legacy that dates back to when it served as a meeting place for the Iroquois Great Council. Originally known as "Newcomer's town" by English and American traders, this small village has evolved from its early days as a settlement with over one hundred dwellings in 1771 to the close-knit community it is today.

As Newcomerstown balances growth with the preservation of its historical character, lighting regulations play an important role in maintaining both safety and the town's distinctive aesthetic appeal. These regulations reflect the community's commitment to honoring its past while meeting the needs of current residents.

Quick Reference Guide

• Tree Maintenance: Property owners must prune trees to prevent obstruction of street lights
• Construction Safety: Warning lights required at night for excavations and construction sites
• Adult Establishments: Specific minimum lighting levels (10 foot candles in public areas and booths)
• Sign Illumination: Must be constant in intensity and color, shielded to prevent glare
• Street Lighting: Village only lights streets with legal public status

Property Owner Responsibilities

Tree Maintenance for Proper Street Lighting

Property owners in Newcomerstown have specific responsibilities when it comes to maintaining trees near street lights. The town code clearly states:

• Property owners must prune trees bordering streets to ensure they do not obstruct or shade street lights
• This regulation helps maintain visibility and safety throughout the community
• Proper pruning also preserves the effectiveness of the town's lighting infrastructure

The Importance of Clear Street Lighting

In a town with Newcomerstown's historical character, street lighting serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. Well-maintained street lighting:

• Enhances safety for pedestrians and drivers
• Showcases the town's architectural features
• Creates a welcoming atmosphere that respects the historical setting

Construction and Safety Lighting Requirements

Warning Lights for Hazardous Areas

Section 521.03 of the town code establishes clear guidelines for temporary lighting at construction sites and potential hazards:

• Warning lights required at night for:
• Excavations
• Wells
• Cesspools
• Structures under construction, reconstruction, repair, or alteration

Protection of Safety Lighting

To ensure public safety, the code also:

• Prohibits the destruction, removal, damage or extinguishing of any barricade or warning light placed for public protection
• These provisions help prevent injuries and accidents in areas with temporary hazards

Specific Lighting Requirements for Adult Establishments

The town code includes detailed lighting requirements for adult-oriented establishments:

Illumination Standards

• Minimum of 10 foot candles of light in public portions of the establishment at all times
• Minimum of 10 foot candles of light in each booth or cubicle, as measured from the floor
• Minimum of 1 foot candle of illumination in aisles adjoining booths, rooms, or cubicles

Visibility Requirements

• Each booth, room, or cubicle must have at least one side totally open to a public lighted aisle
• This ensures an unobstructed view of anyone occupying these spaces at all times

Sign Illumination Regulations

General Illumination Guidelines

Newcomerstown maintains specific regulations for illuminated signs to ensure they complement the town's character:

• Sign illumination must be constant in intensity and color
• Light sources must be shaded, shielded, or directed to prevent glare on surrounding properties or public streets
• No direct or reflected light may create a traffic hazard

Safety and Technical Requirements

• All illuminated signs must be properly wired with ground fault interrupters (GFIs)
• The source of illumination must be kept in safe working order at all times
• Signs determined to constitute a traffic hazard due to illumination type are prohibited

Location and Maintenance

• No sign or associated lighting fixture may be erected within the public right-of-way (with limited exceptions for traffic control)
• Signs are prohibited on light/utility poles (except for banners installed by governmental agencies)
• Abandoned signs that no longer identify an active business must be removed

Street Lighting Policies

The Village of Newcomerstown has specific policies regarding the lighting of streets:

• The Village will only accept, light, or maintain streets that have:
• Been accepted or opened as public streets prior to the effective date of the relevant chapter
• Been shown on a recorded plat legally accepted by Council

This provision ensures that lighting resources are allocated efficiently to officially recognized public thoroughfares.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Compliance Tips

For property owners in Newcomerstown, compliance with lighting regulations is relatively straightforward:

• Regularly inspect trees near street lights and prune as needed
• Ensure proper illumination of any construction sites or excavations
• Maintain sign lighting in good working order and properly shielded
• Remove abandoned signs that are no longer in use

Benefits of Proper Lighting

Adherence to these regulations offers several advantages:

• Enhanced safety for residents and visitors
• Preservation of Newcomerstown's historical character
• Reduction of light pollution and energy waste
• Prevention of potential liability issues

Supporting Newcomerstown's Lighting Vision

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting shares Newcomerstown's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing modern technology. We understand the unique balance that communities like Newcomerstown strive to achieve between safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation.

Community Collaboration

Bock Lighting recognizes the importance of maintaining Newcomerstown's distinctive atmosphere. Our experience with regional architectural styles enables us to:

• Provide guidance that respects the town's historical integrity
• Offer solutions that enhance safety while preserving community character
• Serve as a resource for understanding lighting regulations

Shared Values

Our approach aligns with Newcomerstown's vision:

• Historical respect: Understanding how lighting influences historical settings
• Community focus: Prioritizing solutions that serve community needs
• Sustainable practices: Promoting responsible lighting that reduces waste and light pollution

As a regional partner, we're committed to supporting communities like Newcomerstown in maintaining their unique character through thoughtful lighting approaches.

Conclusion

Newcomerstown's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to preserving its rich historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for current residents. From tree maintenance to construction safety lighting and sign illumination standards, these regulations create a framework that respects the town's past while meeting present needs.

By understanding and following these guidelines, property owners contribute to maintaining Newcomerstown's distinctive atmosphere and historical integrity. Together, community members help ensure that this charming Ohio village continues to shine—in just the right light.