Lighting Regulations in Stone Park, Illinois: A Guide to Public and Commercial Requirements

Introduction

Stone Park, Illinois has come a long way since its incorporation in 1939, when it began with just 50 homes. Today, this village in Cook County hosts over 800 homes and thousands of residents. The community's approach to regulations, including lighting standards, reflects its unique history and development trajectory.

As Stone Park has grown, it has maintained a strong commitment to preserving its community character, as evidenced by instances where residents have successfully opposed developments they felt conflicted with their values. A notable example occurred in 2013 when residents and the Missionary Sisters of St. Charles Borromeo Scalabrinians successfully opposed the opening of a strip club adjacent to a convent.

This deep-rooted commitment to community values is reflected in Stone Park's approach to public and commercial lighting regulations.

Quick Reference Guide

Based on Stone Park's municipal code, here are the key lighting requirements:

• Public Street Lighting: Supervised by the Director of Public Works
• Billboard Illumination: Must use electrical means only; no open flames
• Short-Term Rentals: Must provide exit lighting and emergency lighting
• Mini-Theaters: Require 10 foot-candles of illumination in public areas (with limited exceptions)
• Mobile Home Parks: Must include lighting plans in applications

Public Street and Alley Lighting

Supervision and Maintenance

The Stone Park municipal code clearly designates the Director of Public Works as responsible for:

• Supervising the lighting of public streets and alleys
• Maintaining the lighting system in efficient operation
• Ensuring good repair of lighting infrastructure

Infrastructure Changes

When infrastructure projects necessitate changes to street lighting:

• Relocation of street lighting may be required during construction projects
• In cases involving relief sewer construction, the District must cover costs of relocating street lighting

This supervision ensures consistent lighting for public safety while maintaining the character of Stone Park's neighborhoods.

Commercial Lighting Requirements

Billboard and Signage Illumination

Stone Park maintains specific requirements for illuminated billboards and signboards:

• Power Source: Billboards must be illuminated exclusively by electrical means
• Safety Regulations: No open spark or flame is permitted for display purposes
• Code Compliance: All wiring must comply with:
• Local ordinances relating to electrical wiring
• The Chicago Electrical Code

These requirements balance advertising needs with safety concerns, reflecting Stone Park's practical approach to commercial regulations.

Mini-Theater Illumination Standards

For entertainment venues classified as mini-theaters, Stone Park has established clear illumination standards:

• Standard Lighting Level: At least 10 foot-candles of light must be maintained in public portions, including aisles
• Exception Provision: Lower illumination (minimum 1 foot-candle) is permitted in aisles only when necessary for viewing entertainment
• Measurement Method: Illumination is measured from the floor

These standards ensure patron safety while accommodating the functional needs of entertainment venues.

Residential Lighting Requirements

Short-Term Rental Properties

Properties operating as short-term rentals must provide:

• Exit Lighting: At all points of exit from the rental unit
• Emergency Lighting: In hallways and stairways

These requirements prioritize safety for visitors who may be unfamiliar with the property layout.

Mobile Home Parks

Applications for mobile home parks must include:

• Detailed plans for lighting structures
• Proposed methods for illuminating the land upon which the park is located

This requirement ensures adequate lighting planning for residential developments.

Supporting Stone Park's Community Vision

The lighting regulations in Stone Park reflect the community's practical approach to balancing safety, functionality, and community character. These regulations, while not extensive, focus on key areas where lighting impacts public safety and community standards.

Manufacturers and suppliers who understand Stone Park's history and community values can better serve residents and businesses. Companies with experience in municipal lighting requirements can provide valuable assistance in navigating compliance while respecting the village's character.

Organizations that share Stone Park's commitment to community standards and responsible development are best positioned to support residents and businesses in meeting lighting requirements while enhancing the village's aesthetic and functional qualities.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Compliance Requirements

If you own property in Stone Park, your lighting requirements will depend on how your property is used:

• Residential Homeowners: The code doesn't specify detailed lighting requirements for standard residential properties
• Short-Term Rental Operators: Must provide exit and emergency lighting
• Business Owners with Signage: Must comply with electrical illumination standards
• Entertainment Venue Operators: Must maintain specified foot-candle measurements
• Mobile Home Park Developers: Must submit lighting plans with applications

When Planning Changes

When considering changes to your property's lighting:

• Contact Stone Park municipal offices for the most current requirements
• Consult with professionals familiar with local codes
• Remember that lighting requirements may be addressed in other sections of the building code or zoning ordinances

Conclusion

Stone Park's lighting regulations focus primarily on public infrastructure, commercial applications, and specific residential scenarios like short-term rentals. While not comprehensive, these targeted regulations address key safety concerns while allowing flexibility.

The village's approach to lighting reflects its practical commitment to community development that respects local values and character. As Stone Park continues to evolve, its lighting standards serve as one component of a broader approach to maintaining a safe, functional, and character-rich community environment.

For specific questions about lighting requirements for your property or project, contact Stone Park municipal offices directly to ensure compliance with current regulations.