Lighting Regulations in Plano, Illinois: A Comprehensive Guide for Property Owners

Introduction

Nestled in Kendall County with a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century, Plano, Illinois balances its historical heritage with modern development needs. Known as the "Birthplace of the Harvester" and famously transformed into Superman's hometown of Smallville for the "Man of Steel" film, Plano's approximately 11,000 residents enjoy a community that values both progress and preservation.

The city's approach to lighting regulations reflects this balance – ensuring safety and functionality while respecting Plano's unique character and the needs of its residents. Understanding these regulations is essential for property owners, developers, and businesses operating within the city limits.

Quick Reference Guide

• Parking Lot Requirements:
• Commercial lots: Reduce to 1 foot candle after business hours
• Multi-family residential: Maintain minimum 0.5 foot candles overnight
• All parking luminaires must shut off during daylight hours
• Sign Illumination:
• Wall, pole, canopy/marquee signs: Internal illumination only
• No illumination for temporary or awning signs
• Signs near residential areas: No illumination between midnight and 7:00 A.M.
• Light Specifications:
• Maximum average intensity: 4.0 foot candles
• Required technology: LED or energy-efficient equivalent
• Fixture design: Fully shielded, cut-off type, aimed downward
• General Requirements:
• No light trespass beyond property lines (with exceptions for roadways)
• Light directed away from residential properties and public highways
• Photometric plans required for development approval

Parking Lot Lighting Requirements

Commercial Properties

Commercial property owners must pay special attention to parking lot illumination. The regulations specifically state that commercial parking lots remaining illuminated overnight must have controls to reduce the average light intensity to 1 foot candle after the close of the business day.

Residential Properties

Multi-family residential developments face different requirements. These parking areas must maintain a minimum average light intensity of 0.5 foot candles overnight to ensure safety for residents.

Universal Requirements

All parking lot lighting systems, regardless of property type, must have controls to automatically shut off illumination during daylight hours. This energy-saving measure aligns with Plano's commitment to conservation and responsible resource management.

Sign Illumination Standards

Types of Illumination Allowed

Plano's code is specific about what types of signs can be illuminated and how:

• Wall signs: Internal illumination only
• Pole signs: Internal illumination only
• Canopy/marquee signs: Internal illumination only
• Under canopy signs: Internal illumination only
• Temporary signs: No illumination permitted
• Awning signs: No illumination permitted

Residential Area Considerations

Signs located adjacent to or across from residential districts require special consideration:

• Signs must be shaded to avoid casting bright light upon residential property
• Illumination is prohibited between midnight and 7:00 A.M. if the sign is visible from a residential district

Permit Requirements

When applying for a sign permit, applicants must include:

• Detailed specifications for proposed illumination methods
• Drawings showing all text and graphics
• Construction methods and materials

Technical Lighting Specifications

Energy Efficiency Requirements

Plano has adopted the International Energy Conservation Code (2015 edition) for regulating energy-efficient lighting systems. All new lighting installations must use:

• LED technology or an energy-efficient equivalent
• Systems that comply with the energy conservation code requirements

Fixture Design & Placement

Light fixtures throughout Plano must be:

• Fully shielded and cut-off type designs
• Aimed downward with no light emitted above 90° from directly below the fixture
• Installed to prevent light trespass beyond property lines (except at roadway and driveway intersections)

Light Levels

The city has established specific light level requirements:

• Maximum average intensity: Not to exceed 4.0 foot candles
• A photometric plan with minimum, maximum, and average light levels is required for development approval

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Commercial Structures

Large commercial developments exceeding 100,000 square feet must incorporate:

• Pedestrian-scaled lighting near main entrances
• Avoidance of exposed neon tubing in building trim or accent areas

Entertainment Venues

Establishments serving liquor for on-premises consumption must be:

• Continuously lighted during business hours
• Illuminated by natural light or artificial white light
• Arranged so all parts of the interior are clearly visible

Safety-Related Requirements

Certain businesses have additional lighting requirements:

• Adult-use cannabis businesses: Must install adequate lighting to ensure employee and customer safety
• Massage establishments: Must provide adequate lighting through windows covering at least 1/8 of the floor area or approved artificial lighting

Specialty Lighting Regulations

Beacon & Searchlights

These attention-grabbing lights are permitted under strict limitations:

• Must be oriented skyward, not breaking a 45° angle from the ground
• May be displayed for no more than 15 days
• After use, a 6-month waiting period is required before reinstallation
• Only one unit permitted per zoning lot

Wireless Communication Towers

These structures shall not be artificially lighted unless required by the FAA or other applicable authority. If lighting is required, the design chosen must cause the least disturbance to surrounding views.

Street Lighting Standards

Residential Areas

Street lighting is mandatory at:

• All street intersections
• Closer intervals if density exceeds 3 dwelling units per acre

Commercial & Manufacturing Areas

A comprehensive street lighting system is required for:

• Business districts
• Manufacturing subdivisions
• Problem locations in residential areas

Installation Requirements

The developer or subdivider is responsible for:

• Arranging and paying installation costs required by Commonwealth Edison Company
• Installing systems within 2 years of final plat approval (with possible extensions)
• Ensuring trees have minimum 20-foot spacing from light poles

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Plano's lighting regulations before beginning development or renovation projects can save time and money. Here are key considerations:

Documentation Requirements

Be prepared to submit:

• Photometric plans showing light levels throughout your property
• Manufacturer's cut sheets for each luminaire and lighting product
• Plans showing fixture height, intensity, and bulb type
• Documentation of methods to eliminate glare onto adjoining properties

Common Compliance Issues

The most frequent compliance challenges include:

• Light trespass onto neighboring properties
• Excessive brightness in commercial areas
• Improper shielding allowing light to spill upward
• Missing controls for daytime shut-off or nighttime dimming

Planning for Compliance

Work with qualified lighting professionals who understand Plano's requirements. Consider:

• Consulting with the planning department early in your project
• Including photometric analysis in your initial design phase
• Selecting fixtures specifically designed to meet cut-off requirements
• Installing proper controls for time-of-day lighting adjustments

Supporting Plano's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands the unique character of communities like Plano. We appreciate the balance the city strikes between preserving its historical heritage while embracing modern lighting technology.

Our experience working with communities throughout Illinois has given us insight into how proper lighting can enhance both the safety and character of historic areas. We share Plano's commitment to responsible illumination that respects neighboring properties and the city's architectural identity.

As a regional manufacturer, Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource to help property owners understand and navigate lighting regulations. Our expertise in historically appropriate lighting solutions aligns with Plano's vision of maintaining its distinctive character while meeting contemporary needs.

We're committed to supporting communities through sustainable lighting practices that respect local regulations and community values, whether in historic districts or newly developed areas.

Conclusion

Plano's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to balancing safety, functionality, energy efficiency, and community character. By requiring efficient technologies, preventing light trespass, and establishing specific illumination standards, the city ensures that lighting enhances rather than detracts from its unique environment.

Property owners who understand and comply with these regulations contribute to Plano's vision of a well-lit, energy-conscious community that honors its historic roots while embracing modern standards. When planning any new development or renovation, consulting with city officials early in the process will help ensure your lighting plans meet all requirements.

For specific questions about your property, contact the Plano Planning Department for guidance on navigating these lighting regulations.