Lighting Regulations in Preston, Minnesota: Preserving Small-Town Charm While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota's picturesque Bluff Country, Preston combines rich historical character with practical modern needs. Founded in 1853 by John Kaercher, who named it after his hometown in England, Preston has evolved while maintaining its small-town charm amidst rolling hills and scenic landscapes.

The city's lighting regulations reflect this careful balance between preservation and progress. These guidelines ensure that Preston's natural beauty and architectural heritage remain visible under the night sky, while still providing adequate illumination for safety and functionality.

Let's explore how Preston's lighting requirements help maintain the city's distinctive character while meeting modern needs.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

Essential lighting regulations to know:

• Light Trespass Limits:
• Maximum 0.1 foot-candle increase within 25 feet of residential dwellings
• Maximum 0.5 foot-candle increase on other parts of residential properties
• Exhibition Areas:
• Minimum 5 foot-candles of illumination
• Light must not extend unreasonably beyond boundaries
• Glare Control:
• Direct and reflected glare must not be visible beyond property limits
• Light must be directed away from adjoining properties
• Residential Considerations:
• Only nameplate signs may be illuminated (maximum 2 square feet)
• All lighting must avoid annoying glare toward residential areas

Commercial and Industrial Lighting Standards

Business District Illumination

In Preston's business and industrial areas, lighting plays a crucial role in safety and functionality while respecting neighboring properties. The regulations maintain a careful balance to ensure commercial needs don't interfere with residential quality of life.

Key requirements include:

• Lighting must be reflected away from public rights-of-way and nearby residential districts
• The combined illumination from artificial light sources must not increase light levels on residential properties by more than 0.1 foot-candle within 25 feet of a dwelling
• On other parts of residential properties, the increase must not exceed 0.5 foot-candles
• Glare, whether direct or reflected, must not be visible beyond the property boundaries

Industrial Areas

Similar principles apply to Preston's industrial zones, with some specific provisions:

• Signage may be illuminated, but light must not be directed toward public rights-of-way
• Light sources must be positioned to direct illumination away from residential districts
• All exterior lighting must direct light away from adjoining properties

Residential Area Lighting Regulations

Residential Property Illumination

Preston's regulations for residential areas focus on maintaining the peaceful character of neighborhoods while allowing for necessary lighting.

For residential properties:

• Only limited sign illumination is permitted
• Nameplate signs identifying the owner or occupant may be illuminated if they don't exceed 2 square feet
• Signs for property sales or construction projects cannot be illuminated

Residential-Commercial Boundaries

When commercial or industrial properties border residential areas, additional protections apply:

• Properties within 50 feet of residential districts must provide screening with walls or fences
• Any lights must be arranged to prevent annoying glare toward residential buildings
• Parking lots and driveways near residential areas must have lighting arranged to prevent directing or reflecting annoying glare toward homes

Special Use Lighting Requirements

Bed and Breakfast Establishments

Bed and breakfast establishments have specific lighting regulations to maintain residential character:

• Lighting must be kept to a contiguous, compact, and well-defined area between the structure and parking area
• Additional exterior lighting beyond this scope is prohibited
• Commercial-type exterior lighting that makes the dwelling appear less residential is not permitted

Exhibition Areas

For exhibitions that continue during darkness:

• Illumination must be sufficient to light the entire exhibition area at a minimum rate of 5 foot-candles
• Light should not shine unreasonably beyond the boundaries of the enclosed location

Sign Illumination Regulations

General Sign Lighting Requirements

Preston's regulations distinguish between different types of illuminated signage:

• Flashing Signs: Signs where illumination is not kept stationary or constant in intensity and color
• Illuminated Signs: Signs with characters, letters, figures, designs, or outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes

For all illuminated signs:

• Light sources must not be visible from any public right-of-way
• Illumination must be directed away from residential districts
• Signs must not obstruct windows, doors, fire escapes, stairways, or openings intended to provide light, air, or access

Non-Conforming Signs

For businesses with existing signage that doesn't meet current standards:

• Signs on non-conforming buildings may continue but cannot increase in illumination
• Signs that are rebuilt, altered, or moved generally must be brought into compliance with current regulations

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Preston's lighting regulations helps ensure your property remains compliant while contributing positively to the community's character.

Important considerations:

• The Planning Commission may require illumination measures for traffic control purposes
• All exterior lighting should be designed with neighboring properties in mind
• When installing new lighting near residential areas, be especially mindful of light trespass limits
• If your property is in a business or industrial district, remember that light levels on adjacent residential properties must meet specific thresholds
• Sign illumination has specific requirements based on your zoning district

Supporting Preston's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, shares Preston's commitment to preserving historic character while embracing functional lighting solutions. As a company that understands the importance of regional architectural styles and community character, Bock appreciates Preston's thoughtful approach to balancing safety, functionality, and aesthetic preservation.

Our experience with communities like Preston has given us insight into how proper lighting can enhance historic areas while meeting modern needs. We're committed to supporting the educational aspects of lighting regulations, helping property owners understand how quality illumination can complement rather than detract from Preston's small-town charm.

With a deep appreciation for Preston's blend of history and progress, Bock Lighting serves as a resource for those seeking to maintain the distinctive character that makes Preston's Bluff Country setting so special.

Conclusion

Preston's lighting regulations reflect the city's commitment to preserving its small-town character while ensuring safety and functionality. By controlling light trespass, managing glare, and setting standards for illumination, these guidelines help maintain the quality of life that Preston's residents value.

Whether you own a business, a home, or a special-use property in Preston, understanding these lighting requirements helps you contribute to the community's vision of a well-lit yet charming historic city nestled in Minnesota's beautiful Bluff Country.

Following these regulations not only ensures compliance but also helps preserve the unique character and natural beauty that makes Preston special for residents and visitors alike.