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Saint Bernard, Ohio, is a charming village with a rich historical tapestry dating back to its incorporation in 1878. Nestled as an enclave within Cincinnati and covering just 1.56 square miles, this small but vibrant community takes pride in its architectural heritage, exemplified by landmarks such as St. Clement Church, originally built in 1871.
The village's approach to lighting regulations reflects its dual commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and businesses. These regulations are designed to maintain the distinctive atmosphere that makes Saint Bernard unique while accommodating modern needs.
Organizations like the St. Bernard-Ludlow Grove Historical Society demonstrate the community's dedication to preserving its cultural heritage, which naturally extends to how the village manages its built environment—including lighting.
Key Lighting Requirements in Saint Bernard:
Saint Bernard takes a preservation-minded approach to sign lighting. Internal illumination is prohibited, including backlit and neon signage. This requirement maintains the village's traditional aesthetic while still allowing businesses to be visible.
When illuminating signs, property owners must follow these specific guidelines:
To maintain a calm, consistent ambiance throughout the village, Saint Bernard prohibits:
These restrictions apply to all signage within village boundaries.
Sign lighting must be effectively shielded to prevent light beams from being cast directly onto streets or highways. The regulations specifically require that illumination minimize glare upon public streets and adjoining properties.
Saint Bernard requires that all lighting be appropriate to its district in type, design, location, and quantity. This context-sensitive approach ensures lighting complements the character of different areas within the village.
The village specifies that lighting should be used in a limited manner and only for specific purposes:
Any lighting used to illuminate off-street parking areas must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining premises. This requirement prevents light trespass that could affect neighboring properties.
Village regulations specifically note that development layouts and building designs causing "objectionable glare" are considered detrimental to both the proposed facilities and nearby properties.
Construction sites, excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures undergoing construction, reconstruction, repair, or alteration must be guarded by warning devices or lights at night to prevent dangerous conditions.
The regulations explicitly prohibit anyone from extinguishing barricade or warning lights that are placed for public protection.
Interior lighting requirements focus on safety in multi-unit buildings:
For portable structures and tents used as places of assembly:
Owners of vacant properties must provide:
These requirements help ensure vacant properties remain secure and don't become safety hazards or eyesores within the community.

Dayton, Ohio
Property owners must maintain landscaping to ensure it doesn't interfere with lighting infrastructure:
When submitting plans for development, property owners should be aware of lighting documentation requirements:
Saint Bernard's historical character influences its approach to lighting regulations. Property owners should consider how their lighting choices will complement the village's architectural heritage.
The St. Bernard-Ludlow Grove Historical Society can be a valuable resource for understanding the historical context that informs the village's aesthetic preferences.
Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, understands the delicate balance Saint Bernard seeks to maintain between preserving its historical character and meeting modern lighting needs.
As a regional manufacturer familiar with the architectural styles and community values of villages like Saint Bernard, Bock appreciates the importance of lighting that complements rather than overwhelms historical settings.
Our team recognizes that in communities with a strong preservation ethic, lighting should enhance the existing character while providing necessary functionality. We're committed to helping property owners understand lighting regulations and identify solutions that respect Saint Bernard's unique identity.
With a century of experience working in communities throughout Ohio, Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating the specific requirements of local lighting ordinances.
Saint Bernard's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring safety and functionality. By focusing on appropriate lighting types, minimizing glare, and preventing light trespass, these regulations help maintain the distinctive atmosphere that makes Saint Bernard special.
Property owners should familiarize themselves with these requirements when planning any lighting installations or modifications. By working within these guidelines, residents and businesses contribute to the village's ongoing efforts to honor its rich history while meeting contemporary needs.
Whether illuminating historic structures, commercial signage, or residential properties, thoughtful lighting that complies with local regulations enhances Saint Bernard's charm and livability for all who call it home.