Lighting Regulations in Ramsey, Illinois: Preserving Rural Character Through Minimal Requirements

Introduction

Nestled in Fayette County, the small village of Ramsey, Illinois carries a rich heritage dating back to the mid-19th century. With a population of 1,665 residents as of the 2020 census, this rural community has carefully maintained its small-town charm and historical character over the generations.

Ramsey's approach to development reflects its community values - balancing modern needs while preserving its historic rural identity. This balanced perspective is evident in the village's modest lighting regulations, which focus primarily on safety and basic standards rather than extensive restrictions.

Quick Reference Guide to Ramsey's Lighting Regulations

For property owners and businesses in Ramsey, here's what you need to know about the village's lighting requirements:

• Residential Lighting: Basic requirements for interior room lighting
• Commercial Special Cases: Specific requirements for certain business types
• Public Safety Lighting: Requirements for construction materials in public areas
• Public Infrastructure: Protections for village lighting fixtures and signs

Residential Property Lighting Requirements

While Ramsey's code doesn't contain extensive exterior lighting regulations for residential properties, it does establish basic standards for interior lighting in dwellings:

Bathroom Lighting Requirements

• Every bathroom must have one switched electric light fixture
• Every bathroom must contain at least one electrical outlet within 30 inches of the wash-basin
• These requirements ensure basic visibility and functionality in bathroom spaces

Bedroom Lighting Requirements

• Every bedroom must have at least one of the following:
• One switched ceiling light fixture
• One switched wall-type light fixture
• One switched duplex outlet
• Light switches must be conveniently located at the entry to the bedroom
• These minimal requirements ensure basic illumination for residential spaces

Commercial Establishment Lighting

Ramsey's code contains specific lighting requirements for certain types of commercial establishments:

Sexually-Oriented Businesses

These establishments have the most detailed lighting requirements in Ramsey's code:

• Minimum illumination of 5 footcandles measured at floor level throughout customer areas
• Overhead lighting fixtures must provide sufficient intensity to meet this requirement
• Application for licensing must include a diagram showing the location of all overhead lighting fixtures
• Signs cannot be equipped with lighting mechanisms capable of flashing
• Signs are limited to 72 square feet in area and 20 feet in height

Alcohol Service Establishments

For premises licensed for on-site consumption of alcohol (excluding restaurants, hotels, or clubs):

• No arrangement of lighting shall prevent a full view of the interior from the street, road or sidewalk
• This requirement supports public safety and compliance monitoring

Public Safety Lighting Requirements

Construction Sites & Building Materials

When construction materials or other obstacles must be placed in public streets:

• Illuminated warning lights are required from sunset to sunrise
• Electric markers or flashers must emit light at sufficient intensity to be visible at a reasonable distance
• Reflectors or reflecting material may supplement but not replace light sources
• These requirements help prevent accidents and ensure public safety

Protection of Public Lighting Infrastructure

Ramsey's code includes provisions protecting the village's lighting infrastructure:

• It is unlawful to willfully, maliciously, or negligently damage any electric light post, pole, conductor, wire, lamp, or related equipment
• The Code Enforcement Officer is responsible for observing and reporting street lights in need of repair
• These provisions help maintain the reliability of public lighting systems

What Property Owners Should Know

Limited Scope of Regulations

Ramsey's lighting regulations are notably limited in scope compared to many municipalities. The village code:

• Does not specify extensive requirements for exterior residential lighting
• Lacks detailed regulations on light trespass or neighborhood light pollution
• Focuses primarily on basic safety and functionality requirements

Compliance Considerations

While regulations are minimal, property owners should:

• Ensure all interior rooms meet the basic lighting requirements specified in the code
• Be aware that specific uses (like adult-oriented businesses) have additional requirements
• Respect and avoid damaging public lighting infrastructure

Supporting Ramsey's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand and appreciate communities like Ramsey that value their rural character and historical identity. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we share an appreciation for balancing tradition with practical functionality.

Our experience working with small communities throughout the Midwest has given us insight into the unique lighting needs of villages like Ramsey. We recognize that in rural communities, lighting often focuses on:

• Supporting safety without creating excessive light pollution that would diminish starry rural skies
• Providing practical illumination that respects the village's modest regulatory approach
• Maintaining the aesthetic character that makes small towns special

Bock Lighting is committed to serving as a resource for communities like Ramsey, helping residents and businesses understand how quality lighting can enhance safety and ambiance while honoring the village's heritage and rural character.

Conclusion

Ramsey, Illinois takes a straightforward approach to lighting regulations, focusing on basic safety and functionality requirements rather than extensive restrictions. This approach aligns with the village's rural character and community values.

Property owners should understand the basic requirements that do exist, particularly those related to interior lighting standards and specific commercial uses. While regulations are minimal, they reflect Ramsey's balanced approach to preserving its historical character while meeting practical modern needs.

For those seeking to enhance their property lighting while respecting Ramsey's community character, quality lighting that minimizes glare and unnecessary brightness will best support the village's rural aesthetic and historical charm.