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

Introduction

Founded in 1789 and chartered by the Kentucky State Legislature in 1862, Paris, Kentucky, stands as a testament to the rich historical tapestry of Bourbon County. With its notable Downtown Paris Historic District and architectural landmarks like the Bourbon Agricultural Bank and Trust Building, the city carefully balances modern development needs with preservation of its historical character.

This balance is reflected in the city's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to maintain the community's small-town charm while ensuring safety and functionality across its approximately 6 square miles. Understanding these regulations is essential for property owners, businesses, and residents alike.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Light Trespass: Outdoor light fixtures in residential zones must not direct light through neighbors' windows
• Excavation Safety: All street/sidewalk excavations must be sufficiently lighted from dusk to dawn
• Sign Illumination: No illuminated signs within 100 feet of residential areas unless designed to prevent light spillage
• Parking Areas: Must be properly illuminated during non-daylight hours with fixtures positioned to minimize glare
• Street Lighting: Subdividers must install and pay for street lighting facilities as required by the Planning Commission
• Obstruction Lighting: Any sidewalk obstructions must be lighted at night

Residential Lighting Requirements

Preventing Light Trespass

Paris regulations specifically prohibit outdoor light fixtures in residential zones that are "aimed, directed, or focused in such a way as to constitute a trespass of the light through the windows of a dwelling of another." This provision protects residents from unwanted light intrusion and helps maintain the peaceful character of residential neighborhoods.

Property Owner Responsibilities

Property owners must ensure their outdoor lighting complies with residential requirements. The city code emphasizes the importance of directing light fixtures properly to prevent light spillage onto neighboring properties.

Vegetation Management Around Lights

All property owners must:

• Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to prevent contact with electric light wires
• Maintain clearance around utility poles and fixtures

If vegetation interferes with electric light wires, utilities have the right to enter premises to trim trees or shrubs as needed.

Commercial and Public Space Lighting

Sign Illumination Standards

Paris has several specific requirements for illuminated signs:

• All wiring and materials must comply with National Electric Code standards
• No illuminated signs permitted within 100 feet of residential property unless designed to prevent light spillage
• No flashing or animated lighting within 300 feet of residential property unless properly shielded
• Main Street restrictions: No advertising signs connected to electric light poles without Board of Commissioners permission

Parking Area Lighting

For businesses with parking areas used after dark:

• Proper illumination is required to avoid accidents
• Light fixtures must be positioned to direct beams away from streets, sidewalks, and adjacent properties
• Minimizing glare and reflection that could create traffic hazards is mandatory

Construction and Excavation Lighting

Any excavation or construction that impacts streets or sidewalks must be:

• Sufficiently lighted from dark until dawn
• Properly barricaded alongside the lighting
• Free of unlighted obstructions that might interfere with sidewalk passage

Special Infrastructure Lighting Requirements

Antenna Tower Lighting

Antenna towers in Paris must follow specific lighting guidelines:

• Shielded lighting to minimize spillover onto adjacent properties
• Minimum intensity necessary to satisfy FAA requirements
• Reduced lighting during non-use periods when technically feasible and not conflicting with FAA requirements

Street Lighting for New Developments

Developers creating new subdivisions must:

• Install street lighting facilities at their own expense
• Follow Planning Commission specifications for placement and type
• Pay for operating costs until the street lighting is officially accepted by city resolution

Utility Rate Information

Paris offers several outdoor lighting options through municipal utilities:

• 175-watt mercury vapor lamps: $8.00 per lamp month (existing pole)
• 150-watt HPS bulbs: $8.00
• 40-watt LED: $8.00
• 75-watt LED: $12.50
• 250-watt HPS directional/COBRA: $12.50
• 400-watt HPS directional and COBRA: $12.50
• New pole installation: One-time fee of $250.00

These rates provide options for property owners to select appropriate lighting based on their needs and location requirements.

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When installing or modifying outdoor lighting on your property, consider:

• Direction and focus of light fixtures, especially in residential areas
• Proximity to neighboring properties and potential for light trespass
• Appropriate shielding to prevent unwanted light spillage
• Regular maintenance of trees and vegetation near lighting fixtures

Penalties for Non-Compliance

While the extracts don't specify exact penalties, Paris regulations classify certain lighting violations as unlawful, including:

• Light trespass through windows of neighboring dwellings
• Unlit obstructions on sidewalks
• Insufficient lighting for excavations during nighttime hours

Supporting Paris's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, understands and appreciates the balance Paris seeks to maintain between preserving its historic character and ensuring modern lighting functionality.

With experience in communities that value their architectural heritage, Bock recognizes how proper lighting enhances the charm of historic districts like Downtown Paris while meeting safety and practical requirements. Our understanding of regional architectural styles aligns with Paris's commitment to maintaining its small-town atmosphere and historical significance.

As communities like Paris work to preserve their unique character, having resources for education about lighting regulations becomes increasingly important. Bock's expertise can serve as a valuable resource for understanding how lighting solutions can complement historic preservation efforts while meeting modern code requirements.

The commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices reflects the same values that Paris demonstrates in its careful approach to development and preservation of its historic landscape.

Conclusion

Paris, Kentucky's lighting regulations reflect its dual commitment to preserving historic character while ensuring public safety. From preventing light trespass in residential areas to establishing clear standards for commercial and public lighting, these regulations help maintain the community's distinctive atmosphere.

Property owners and businesses should familiarize themselves with these requirements, particularly regarding light direction, shielding, and appropriate placement. By understanding and following these regulations, community members contribute to Paris's ongoing efforts to honor its rich historical heritage while meeting the practical needs of a modern municipality.

Remember that specific lighting projects may require additional approvals or permits, especially in historic districts or for special applications. When in doubt, consulting with local planning officials is always recommended.