Lighting Regulations in Perry, Ohio: Balancing Safety, History, and Rural Character

Introduction

Perry, Ohio, named in honor of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, the naval hero known for his victory at the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812, is a village with deep historical roots and a distinct rural character. With just over 1,600 residents spread across 2.18 square miles, this small community takes pride in preserving its historical heritage and small-town atmosphere.

The village's approach to development, including lighting regulations, reflects its commitment to maintaining a balance between necessary safety standards and preserving its unique rural character. While Perry's lighting regulations are relatively limited compared to larger municipalities, they contain important provisions that property owners and developers should understand.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements in Perry

• Residential Lighting: Habitable rooms and bathrooms must have adequate natural and/or artificial lighting
• Construction Sites: Must have warning lights at night for safety
• Adult Entertainment: Minimum illumination of 5 foot-candles at floor level
• Street Lighting: Must meet American Society of Illuminating Engineers standards
• Subdivision Development: Underground wiring required for electrical and street lighting (with exceptions)
• Electrical Safety: All lighting fixtures must be installed and maintained to prevent fire hazards

Residential and Commercial Building Requirements

Basic Lighting Standards

Perry's building code requires that every habitable room and bathroom be provided with adequate natural and/or artificial light. While the code doesn't specify exact illumination levels for residential spaces, this requirement ensures that all living spaces have sufficient lighting for everyday activities.

Electrical Safety Provisions

The village code also addresses the safety aspects of lighting installations:

• Every dwelling must have approved electrical service, outlets, and fixtures
• All installations must be maintained to prevent potential fire hazards
• Electrical facilities must be adequate to supply the lighting requirements of the structure

These provisions focus on ensuring that lighting systems are safe and sufficient rather than specifying aesthetic requirements or limitations.

Construction and Development Lighting Requirements

Safety Lighting for Construction Sites

The Perry building code places a strong emphasis on safety lighting for construction areas:

• Warning devices or lights must be installed at night around excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures under construction
• These safety measures must effectively prevent dangerous conditions that could pose risks to life or limb

Subdivision Development Standards

For new subdivision developments in Perry, the following lighting requirements apply:

• Street lighting installation is required within one year of subdivision construction
• Lighting must meet current minimum standards set by the American Society of Illuminating Engineers
• Electrical systems, including street lighting wires and cables, must be constructed underground
• Exceptions to underground installation may be granted if topography, bedrock, or underground water conditions would result in excessive costs

Specialized Lighting Requirements

Adult Entertainment Establishments

The village has specific lighting requirements for adult entertainment establishments:

• License applications must include diagrams showing locations of all overhead lighting fixtures
• Premises must have overhead lighting with minimum illumination of 5 foot-candles measured at floor level
• This illumination level must be maintained whenever patrons are present
• Owners, operators, and employees are responsible for ensuring compliance

These requirements likely exist to ensure safety and proper monitoring of these establishments.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Perry's Lighting Philosophy

Perry's limited but focused lighting regulations reflect its rural character and practical approach to development. The emphasis appears to be on:

• Safety first: Ensuring adequate lighting for safety in homes, businesses, and construction areas
• Practical functionality: Meeting basic lighting needs without excessive specifications
• Historical sensitivity: Avoiding over-regulation that might conflict with the village's historical character

Planning for Compliance

For property owners and developers in Perry, consider these practical steps:

• Consult early: When planning new construction or renovation, check with village officials about any lighting requirements
• Focus on safety: Ensure all lighting installations prioritize safety aspects
• Balance function and aesthetics: While meeting safety requirements, consider how lighting choices impact Perry's rural character
• Remember the context: Perry's historical heritage and small-town atmosphere should inform lighting decisions

Supporting Perry's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting: A Regional Partner in Historic Preservation

As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting shares Perry's appreciation for historical heritage while embracing modern safety standards. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and rural community values allows us to serve as a resource for property owners seeking to balance contemporary lighting needs with historic preservation.

Bock Lighting appreciates Perry's thoughtful approach to development that honors its rural roots and historical significance. Our experience working with communities throughout Northeast Ohio has given us insight into the balance small villages like Perry seek to maintain between necessary safety standards and preserving their unique character.

We're committed to being an educational resource on lighting regulations and historical compatibility, helping Perry residents navigate the intersection of safety requirements, energy efficiency, and historical aesthetics that defines their community.

Conclusion

Perry, Ohio's lighting regulations, while not extensive, reflect the village's practical approach to maintaining safety while preserving its historical character and rural atmosphere. The focus on basic safety standards for homes, businesses, and construction sites, along with specific requirements for street lighting in new developments, demonstrates a balanced approach to lighting governance.

Property owners should view these regulations not just as requirements to follow, but as guidelines that help maintain the village's distinctive character. By understanding and embracing these standards, residents and business owners contribute to preserving Perry's unique charm for future generations.

When planning lighting installations or upgrades, remember that the goal is to achieve a balance that enhances safety and functionality while respecting the historical context and rural character that makes Perry special.