Lighting Regulations in Runnells, Iowa: A Small Town's Approach to Public Safety and Historical Preservation

Introduction

Nestled in Polk County as part of the Des Moines-West Des Moines Metropolitan Statistical Area, Runnells, Iowa is a charming community with deep historical roots dating back to its founding in 1881. Named after American writer Fanny Huntington Runnells Poole, this close-knit city of just 457 residents (as of the 2020 Census) balances its historical character with practical modern needs.

In communities like Runnells, lighting regulations serve multiple purposes: ensuring public safety, maintaining the town's visual character, and preserving the peaceful small-town atmosphere that residents value. While Runnells has a relatively limited set of formal lighting regulations compared to larger municipalities, these rules reflect the community's practical approach to development and preservation.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Regulations in Runnells

• Public Safety Lighting: Warning lights required for hazardous areas
• Sign Lighting: No flickering, flashing, or glaring lights permitted on signs
• Street Lighting: Required in new subdivisions where necessary
• Emergency Lighting: Subject to inspection for fire safety compliance
• Development Applications: Must include details about exterior lighting plans

Public Safety Lighting Requirements

Hazard Protection

When construction or other activities create hazards in streets or public areas, adequate warning lights meeting city standards must be installed to protect the public. This safety-focused regulation ensures that potential dangers are clearly marked, especially during low-light conditions.

Protecting Public Safety Lighting

Runnells specifically prohibits the unauthorized removal or extinguishing of safety lighting. It is unlawful for any person to extinguish lamps or lights that have been placed to guard or enclose unsafe areas in streets or alleys without proper consent from the person in control of that lighting.

Emergency Lighting

Fire safety inspections in Runnells include verification that proper emergency lighting is in place and functioning correctly. This requirement helps ensure that buildings remain safe during power outages or emergency situations.

Sign Lighting Regulations

Restrictions on Light Emission

Runnells places clear limitations on the type of lighting that can be used for signs and nameplates. The code specifically states that "no such sign or nameplate shall emit any flickering, flashing or glaring light." This regulation helps maintain the visual character of the community while preventing distractions that could affect driver safety.

Sign Types and Placement

For properties with signs, Runnells permits:

• One portable sign per street front not exceeding 18 square feet total (maximum two sides, 9 square feet each)
• One nameplate not exceeding one square foot
• Outdoor bulletin boards for churches, schools, and public buildings (subject to Plan and Zoning Commission approval)

Development and Planning Requirements

Documentation Requirements

When submitting development applications in Runnells, applicants must include:

• Type and location of lighting for off-street parking areas
• Details about outside lighting as part of the landscape plan
• Information about free-standing identification signs including location, setback, dimensions, height, and illustrations

Infrastructure Standards

For new subdivisions or additions to the city, developers should note:

• Street lights shall be installed where necessary in any subdivision
• Utility lines must be installed underground (with exceptions for high-voltage lines)
• Incidental appurtenances (transformers, meter boxes, etc.) may be placed above ground but must not be unsightly or hazardous to the public

What Property Owners Should Know

Practical Guidance for Residents

If you're a property owner in Runnells, understanding these lighting regulations helps ensure compliance while contributing to the community's character and safety. While the city's regulations are relatively straightforward, they emphasize important safety and aesthetic considerations.

When Planning New Lighting

When installing new exterior lighting or signs with illumination:

• Ensure lights don't produce flickering, flashing, or glaring effects
• Maintain any required safety lighting in construction or hazardous areas
• Include lighting details when submitting development plans
• Consider how your lighting choices affect the historical character of Runnells

The Purpose Behind the Regulations

Runnells' approach to lighting regulation reflects its small-town character and historical heritage. With institutions like the Runnells Christian Church serving the community for over a century, the town values preserving its traditional atmosphere while ensuring modern safety standards are met.

Supporting Runnells' Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, understands and appreciates the unique character of small Midwestern communities like Runnells. As a Midwest manufacturer with deep regional knowledge, we share Runnells' commitment to balancing historical preservation with modern functionality and safety.

We recognize that in communities like Runnells, lighting plays an important role in maintaining the town's character while ensuring public safety. Our experience with similar small towns has taught us the importance of subtle, appropriate lighting that respects community aesthetics while meeting practical needs.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for communities navigating lighting regulations, helping property owners understand how to meet local requirements while enhancing the visual appeal of their homes and businesses. Our commitment to sustainable and community-appropriate lighting aligns with the values that have guided Runnells through its long history.

Conclusion

Runnells' lighting regulations, while not extensive, reflect the city's practical approach to community development and preservation. By focusing on safety, preventing visual nuisances, and requiring thoughtful planning, these rules help maintain the character that makes this small Iowa city special.

For residents and business owners, understanding these regulations helps ensure that lighting choices contribute positively to the community while avoiding potential compliance issues. As Runnells continues to balance its historical heritage with modern needs, thoughtful lighting plays an important role in preserving the town's unique sense of place.

Whether you're planning a new development, installing signs, or simply updating exterior lighting, considering both the letter and the spirit of Runnells' lighting regulations helps ensure that this charming community remains safe, visually appealing, and true to its historical character for generations to come.