Lighting Regulations in Oldham, South Dakota: Preserving Rural Character Through Simple Guidelines

Introduction

Nestled in Kingsbury County with approximately 133 residents, Oldham, South Dakota embodies the essence of small-town America. From its founding in the late 19th century to its current status as a close-knit rural community, Oldham has maintained its distinctive character while adapting to modern needs.

The city's lighting regulations, though limited in scope, reflect its priorities: maintaining the peaceful rural atmosphere while ensuring safety and functionality. These guidelines help preserve the natural darkness of South Dakota's night skies while accommodating necessary illumination for residents and businesses.

Quick Reference Guide

For property owners and businesses in Oldham, here are the key lighting regulations to know:

• Light Containment: No emission of light or glare should be visible beyond your property line • Home Occupation Signs: Must be non-illuminated, maximum 2 square feet, wall-mounted • Sign Brightness: Signs must not create a nuisance to adjacent properties • Adult Bookstores: Viewing areas require minimum 10 footcandles of light • Conditional Uses: Lighting plans are evaluated for glare, traffic safety, and compatibility

General Property Lighting Requirements

Controlling Light Trespass

The most fundamental lighting regulation in Oldham is straightforward: every use shall be operated so there is no emission of heat, glare or radiation visible or discernable beyond the property line.

This simple but powerful rule embodies the community's respect for neighboring properties and the rural character that defines Oldham. While not technically complex, this regulation effectively:

• Prevents obtrusive lighting that could disturb neighbors • Preserves the naturally dark skies that characterize rural South Dakota • Maintains the small-town feel valued by residents

Understanding Light Trespass

Light trespass occurs when artificial light from one property spills onto another. In Oldham's regulations, any visible light crossing property boundaries is considered a violation.

This encourages thoughtful lighting design that focuses illumination where needed without affecting neighboring properties.

Signage Lighting Guidelines

Electronic Message Signs

Oldham's code defines an electronic message sign as "a sign whose message may be changed at intervals by electronic process or remote control and whose only movement is the periodic changing of information having a constant light level."

While specific brightness limitations for these signs aren't detailed in the code, they are still subject to the general rule that signs shall not create a nuisance to occupancy of adjacent and contiguous property by its brightness.

Home Occupation Signage

For home-based businesses, Oldham's regulations are clear: you may have one sign, not exceeding two square-feet in area, non-illuminated and mounted flat against the wall of the principle building.

This requirement helps maintain the residential character of neighborhoods while still allowing home-based entrepreneurs to identify their businesses.

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Adult Establishment Lighting

The code specifies one of the few numerical lighting requirements: Each viewing area [in adult bookstores] shall be lighted at a minimum level of ten footcandles in all parts thereof.

This requirement likely serves both safety and regulatory compliance purposes.

Conditional Use Permits

When considering conditional use permits, the Board of Adjustment evaluates "proposed exterior lighting with reference to glare, traffic safety, economic effect and compatibility and harmony with properties."

This gives the Board discretion to ensure lighting associated with special uses integrates well with Oldham's community character.

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Compliance Guidance

The simplicity of Oldham's lighting regulations makes compliance straightforward for most property owners:

• Contain your light: Ensure fixtures direct light downward and inward on your property • Consider your neighbors: Avoid bright, glaring lights that could disturb adjacent properties • Sign lighting: Keep signage lighting modest and non-intrusive • Special uses: Be prepared to have lighting plans reviewed if seeking conditional approvals

Good Neighbor Lighting Practices

Even with minimal regulations, considerate lighting practices strengthen community bonds:

• Use fixtures with shields that direct light where needed • Consider motion sensors for security lighting to minimize constant illumination • Choose warmer light colors that feel less harsh in the rural setting • Turn off unnecessary lighting when not in use

Supporting Oldham's Community Vision

Bock Lighting's Commitment to Rural Communities

Bock Lighting, with manufacturing roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique lighting needs of small communities like Oldham. We share the commitment to preserving the character of rural towns while providing practical lighting solutions.

Preserving Small-Town Character

Our experience working with communities that value their historical integrity enables us to serve as a resource for Oldham residents seeking to:

• Maintain the rural aesthetic through appropriate lighting choices • Balance modern needs with traditional community values • Find lighting solutions that respect the minimal light trespass requirements • Preserve the dark sky visibility that makes rural South Dakota special

Community Education and Support

As a regional manufacturer with deep understanding of Midwestern architectural styles and community needs, Bock Lighting is committed to educational outreach that helps residents understand lighting regulations and best practices for rural communities.

Conclusion

Oldham, South Dakota's lighting regulations reflect its values as a small, close-knit rural community. Though limited in technical specifications, these guidelines effectively preserve the town's character while accommodating necessary lighting for safety and functionality.

The emphasis on preventing light trespass across property lines, modest signage illumination, and contextual evaluation of special uses creates a framework that respects both individual property rights and community cohesion.

By understanding and honoring these simple guidelines, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining Oldham's distinctive rural atmosphere for future generations.