Lighting Regulations in Shively, Kentucky: A Guide to Public Safety and Community Standards

Introduction

Located southwest of downtown Louisville, Shively, Kentucky, boasts a rich history dating back to 1780 when Christian and Jacob Shively first settled the area. From Christian Shively's mill construction around 1810 to becoming a hub for German immigrants from Bavaria before the Civil War, Shively has evolved while maintaining its unique character.

The city's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to public safety while honoring its historical roots. These regulations aim to ensure that lighting serves functional purposes without compromising the community's aesthetic integrity.

Quick Reference Guide

• Public Obstructions: Require illuminated red lamps during nighttime
• Amusement Facilities: Must maintain minimum 1.0 footcandle lighting and illuminated exit signs
• Multiple Dwellings: Public halls and stairways must be adequately lit
• Habitable Rooms: Require at least two wall outlets or one ceiling fixture plus one wall outlet
• Small Cell Wireless Facilities: When installed on light poles, must match existing aesthetics

Lighting for Public Safety

Obstruction Lighting Requirements

Safety is paramount when it comes to obstructions in public ways. Shively's regulations establish clear requirements for nighttime visibility:

• Minimum Requirement: At least two illuminated red lamps at each end of any obstruction
• For Larger Obstructions: One additional lamp for each additional 50 feet (or portion thereof)
• Timing: Must be maintained throughout the "night season"

These requirements ensure that residents and visitors can easily identify potential hazards in the roadway or walkways, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Public Building Illumination Standards

For buildings that serve the public, particularly amusement facilities, Shively maintains specific lighting standards:

• Exit Signage: Internally illuminated exit signs with letters at least 5 inches in height must be placed over every doorway providing egress
• Minimum Light Levels: A light level of no less than 1.0 footcandles at floor level must be maintained in all public areas

These standards ensure that in emergency situations, patrons can quickly identify exits and navigate safely through the building.

Residential Lighting Requirements

Multiple Dwelling Standards

Shively's code addresses lighting needs in multi-family residential buildings:

• For 5+ Unit Buildings: All public halls and stairways must be adequately lighted at all times
• For 4 or Fewer Units: Either conveniently located switches controlling an adequate lighting system or adequate full-time lighting must be provided

Habitable Room Requirements

Every residential space must have:

• Minimum Fixture Requirements: Either two separate wall-type convenience outlets OR one ceiling fixture and one wall outlet for every habitable room
• Operability: All lighting facilities must be operable and safe

These requirements ensure that residents have adequate lighting for safety and functionality in their living spaces.

Small Cell Wireless Facility Regulations

Integration with Existing Lighting Infrastructure

Shively encourages the integration of small cell wireless facilities with existing lighting structures:

• Preferred Approach: Collocation on existing light poles is specifically mentioned as a preferred method
• Aesthetic Integration: Facilities affixed to existing light poles must be painted and/or textured to match that structure
• Definition Clarification: "Decorative Facility" may include lighting along with small cell wireless facilities

Requirements for City-Owned Streetlight Poles

When installing on city-owned streetlights:

• Structural Standards: Applicants must provide documentation showing the pole meets or exceeds city standards
• Replacement Options: If existing poles don't meet standards, applicants may replace them at their cost
• Lighting Continuity: Any existing lighting fixture must be reinstalled on new poles at the applicant's cost

Maintenance Responsibilities

• Repair Obligations: Applicants are responsible for repairing or replacing any city facilities or improvements (including light poles and fixtures) damaged during installation, maintenance, or removal

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Shively's lighting regulations can help property owners maintain compliance while creating safe, functional spaces:

• Focus on Safety First: Ensure all required lighting is operational, especially in public areas and around potential hazards
• Consider Both Function and Aesthetics: While meeting minimum requirements, consider how lighting contributes to the character of your property
• Maintain Proper Documentation: If installing small cell wireless facilities on lighting structures, be prepared to demonstrate compliance with structural standards

Regular maintenance of lighting systems not only ensures compliance but also contributes to the overall safety and appeal of your property.

Supporting Shively's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918, appreciates Shively's balanced approach to lighting regulations that promote safety while respecting the city's historical character. As a manufacturer with deep understanding of communities like Shively, we recognize the importance of lighting that serves practical needs while enhancing the unique architectural features that make Shively special.

Our experience working with communities that value their historical roots allows us to serve as a resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations. We understand the delicate balance between modern lighting needs and preserving the aesthetic qualities that reflect Shively's German heritage and rich historical background.

We share Shively's commitment to creating well-lit public spaces that promote safety without detracting from community character—a philosophy that has guided our approach to lighting design and manufacturing for generations.

Conclusion

Shively's lighting regulations reflect its practical approach to community safety while honoring its historical character. From ensuring public ways are properly marked to maintaining adequate lighting in residential spaces, these regulations create a framework for a well-lit community.

Property owners who understand and follow these guidelines contribute to a safer, more attractive Shively while preserving the character that makes this community special. The regulations may seem technical in nature, but their purpose is fundamentally about creating spaces where residents and visitors can navigate safely while enjoying the unique atmosphere of this historically rich Kentucky city.