Lighting Regulations in Tallmadge, Ohio: Balancing Historical Character with Modern Safety Standards

Nestled in Summit County with portions extending into Portage County, Tallmadge, Ohio presents a unique blend of historical significance and community pride. Founded in 1807 by David Bacon as a Congregational community, Tallmadge's rich architectural heritage—exemplified by the iconic Tallmadge Church—forms the backdrop against which the city's lighting regulations have evolved.

The city's approach to lighting reflects its commitment to preserving historical character while ensuring public safety. These regulations aim to maintain Tallmadge's distinctive aesthetic centered around Tallmadge Circle while meeting modern standards for safety and functionality.

Quick Reference Guide

• Exterior Maintenance: Lighting fixtures over walkways, drives, and parking lots must be properly maintained and aimed to prevent light trespass
• Residential Requirements: Specific rooms require wall switch-controlled lighting fixtures
• Safety Lighting: Warning lights required for construction excavations
• Business Lighting: Special requirements for amusement arcades and sexually oriented businesses
• Tree Maintenance: Trees must be trimmed to prevent obstruction of street lighting

General Exterior Lighting Requirements

Maintenance Standards

Property owners in Tallmadge must ensure that exterior lighting fixtures are properly maintained. The city code specifically addresses lighting fixtures located over:

• Steps
• Paths and walkways
• Courts
• Driveways
• Parking lots

These fixtures must be kept in operable condition and properly aimed to prevent light trespass onto neighboring properties.

Operation Timing

Exterior lighting must be illuminated for sufficient periods of time before and after business hours to provide adequate safety for employees and pedestrians. While the code doesn't specify exact hours, the intent is to ensure safe passage during darker hours.

Tree Trimming for Light Access

An interesting aspect of Tallmadge's lighting regulations involves vegetation management. Property owners must trim trees on their premises to ensure branches don't obstruct:

• Light from street lamps
• Visibility of street signage

This requirement helps maintain the effectiveness of public lighting systems and contributes to overall community safety.

Residential Lighting Requirements

Required Lighting Locations

The building code specifies that certain habitable rooms and areas must contain at least one wall switch-controlled lighting outlet. The wall switch must be located within three feet of the door in these spaces:

• Kitchen
• Living room
• Bathrooms
• Stairways
• Dining room
• Hallways
• Bedrooms
• Exterior entrances

Additional Lighting Allowances

The following areas may contain pull chain lighting fixtures rather than wall switch-controlled fixtures:

• Storage rooms
• Attic areas
• Furnace rooms
• Utility rooms
• Laundry rooms
• Basement rooms

Installation Requirements

When replacing ceiling lighting fixtures on original wiring, boxes or loompans must be used. Additionally, existing or replacement non-metallic bathroom and kitchen fixtures don't require grounding if they're connected to original wiring.

Safety and Construction Lighting

Excavation Warning Lights

Safety lighting plays a crucial role in construction areas. Tallmadge regulations require that:

• No excavation, well, cesspool, or structure under construction may be left unprotected
• Warning lights must be installed at night around these hazards
• It is prohibited to remove, damage, or extinguish any barricade or warning light placed for public protection

These requirements help prevent accidents and injuries by ensuring hazardous areas are clearly visible after dark.

Business-Specific Lighting Requirements

Amusement Arcade Lighting

Amusement arcades must provide:

• Exterior lighting of sufficient intensity
• Illumination of all entry and exit points
• Illumination of adjacent parking areas

Sexually Oriented Business Requirements

Some of the most detailed lighting requirements apply to sexually oriented businesses:

• Minimum illumination level of 5.0 footcandles measured at floor level throughout all patron-accessible areas
• This level must be maintained whenever patrons are present
• Adequate exterior lighting for visual monitoring to prohibit loitering
• Immediate closure required during power failures until minimum illumination can be restored

These enhanced lighting standards aim to facilitate enforcement of safety regulations and deter illegal activity.

Decorative Lighting Considerations

Tallmadge recognizes the aesthetic value of decorative lighting with its definition of "Decorative Poles" as structures:

• Specifically designed and placed for aesthetic purposes
• May include electric lighting
• Can feature specifically designed informational or directional signage
• May accommodate temporary holiday or special event attachments

This acknowledges the role lighting plays not just in safety but in enhancing the visual character of the community.

Emergency Provisions

During emergencies, city authorities have the power to limit or suspend lighting devices and appliances in the general public interest. This provision allows for necessary adjustments during power shortages or other emergency situations.

Supporting Tallmadge's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, shares Tallmadge's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing necessary modern lighting technology. As a regional manufacturer, we understand the unique architectural heritage of communities like Tallmadge and the importance of balancing safety requirements with aesthetic considerations.

Our team appreciates Tallmadge's thoughtful approach to lighting regulations that protect the city's distinctive character centered around Tallmadge Circle while ensuring practical safety measures. Like Tallmadge itself, with its historic Tallmadge Church and the oldest historical society in Ohio, we value the preservation of heritage while meeting contemporary needs.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners navigating lighting regulations, offering expertise that aligns with Tallmadge's vision of responsible growth that honors its rich historical foundations. Our understanding of regional architectural styles and commitment to sustainable lighting practices make us a natural partner for communities seeking to maintain their unique character.

What Property Owners Should Know

Key Compliance Considerations

Property owners in Tallmadge should focus on:

• Maintenance: Keep all exterior lighting in good working order
• Aim: Ensure lights don't trespass onto neighboring properties
• Coverage: Provide adequate lighting for safety in walkways and parking areas
• Residential requirements: Follow room-specific lighting installation guidelines
• Tree maintenance: Keep trees trimmed to preserve streetlight effectiveness

Planning for New Installations

When installing new lighting or upgrading existing systems, consider:

• The historical character of your neighborhood
• The functional needs of the space being illuminated
• The potential impact on neighboring properties
• Compliance with specific requirements for your property type

Conclusion

Tallmadge's lighting regulations reflect the city's dual commitment to preserving its historical character while ensuring public safety. From the iconic Tallmadge Circle to residential neighborhoods, these standards help maintain the community's distinctive appeal while providing practical guidance for property owners.

By understanding and following these lighting requirements, residents and business owners contribute to Tallmadge's ongoing efforts to balance growth with the preservation of its rich architectural heritage and historical roots that date back to 1807.