Lighting Regulations in Tolono, Illinois: A Guide for Property Owners

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Illinois with a population of approximately 3,500, Tolono boasts a rich heritage dating back to the mid-19th century. The village's unique name, crafted by J.B. Calhoun of the Illinois Central Railroad, reflects its deep-rooted connection to railroad history.

This historical significance, including being the site of Abraham Lincoln's last speech to Illinois residents, shapes Tolono's approach to development and regulation. The community balances growth with preservation of its historical character, which influences its approach to many municipal regulations, including those related to lighting.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Residential Interior Requirements: Each habitable room needs at least one ceiling light fixture and one electrical outlet, or two outlets
• Alcoholic Beverage Areas: Must be well-lit at all times when liquor is being sold or served
• Subdivision Yard Lights: Must provide 1,600-4,000 lumens, automatically activated from sunset to sunrise
• Parking Areas: Lots with 50+ spaces require lighting plan demonstrating minimum 1 footcandle per square foot
• Searchlights: Limited to 1,600 foot candles, prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
• Swimming Pools: Illumination limited to underwater lighting

Residential Lighting Requirements

Interior Lighting Standards

Tolono's building code contains specific requirements for interior lighting to ensure safety and habitability:

• Habitable Rooms: Must contain at least one floor or wall electrical outlet plus a ceiling lighting fixture, or alternatively, two electrical outlets
• Service Areas: Every water closet compartment, bathroom, hall, and utility room requires at least one electric light fixture
• Stairways: Must be safely lighted
• Maintenance: All outlets and fixtures must connect to an approved electric power source and remain in safe working condition

Home Businesses and Occupations

For residents operating businesses from their homes, additional considerations apply:

• Signage Limitations: Only non-illuminated signs not exceeding one square foot are permitted
• Nuisance Prevention: No glare or light disturbance may extend beyond property boundaries

Subdivision and Development Lighting

Yard Light Requirements

Each lot in new subdivisions must include specific exterior lighting:

• Post Lanterns: Required within 10 feet of driveway/street intersection
• Illumination Level: Must project between 1,600-4,000 lumens outward into the public right-of-way
• Operation: Must automatically illuminate from sunset to sunrise
• Address Visibility: House numbers must be displayed in a location visible from the street and illuminated by the post lantern

Street Lighting Standards

Developers must provide street lighting according to these specifications:

• Placement: Required at every intersection, T-intersection, end of cul-de-sac, and between intersections if the distance exceeds 350 feet
• Specifications: High pressure sodium (HPS) fixtures, 100 watts, mounted approximately 25 feet above street level
• Approval Process: Light locations must be reviewed by both the Plan Commission and the power company
• Responsibility: Developers are responsible for coordinating with the power company, initial costs, and maintenance until the subdivision is accepted by the village

Commercial and Public Areas Lighting

Parking Lot Illumination

Parking areas must adhere to specific lighting standards:

• Small to Medium Lots (10-49 spaces):
• Minimum one lighting fixture per 10 parking spaces
• Fixtures mounted at least 10 feet above ground
• Cut-off angle not greater than 75 degrees
• Large Lots (50+ spaces):
• Required Documentation: Must submit a lighting plan
• Minimum Illumination: At least 1 footcandle per square foot of surface area
• Operation Hours: From dusk until dawn or until business closure
• Maintenance: Property owners responsible for keeping all lights in working order

Height Restrictions by Zone

Maximum height for luminaires with total cut-off of light at 90 degrees or greater:

• Residential Zones (RS, R-1 through R-5): 15 feet
• Neighborhood Commercial (CN): 25 feet
• Business & Light Industrial (CB, I-1): 35 feet

Maximum height for luminaires with cut-off less than 90 degrees:

• Residential Zones (RS, R-1 through R-5): 15 feet
• Neighborhood Commercial (CN): 25 feet
• Business & Light Industrial (CB, I-1): 35 feet

Commercial Signage Lighting

Illumination Hours and Restrictions

• Permitted Hours: Exterior signs may be illuminated between 7:00 a.m. (or opening time, whichever is earlier) and 11:00 p.m. (or closing time, whichever is later)
• Light Trespass Prevention: Direct rays must not beam upon any residential building, into residential districts, or into streets
• Traffic Safety: Signs in direct line of vision of traffic signals cannot display red, green, or amber illumination
• Non-conforming Signs: Existing non-conforming signs cannot change their illumination status

Special Event and Grand Opening Lighting

• Grand Openings: Businesses may display special lighting, including searchlights, for three days (Friday through Sunday) within first 30 days of operation
• Searchlight Restrictions:
• Limited to single beam of no more than 1,600 foot candles
• Must project at minimum 45-degree angle from grade level
• Cannot direct light at roadways or adjoining properties
• Cannot cause glare or impair driver vision
• Prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Prohibited Lighting for All Properties

The following lighting types are prohibited in all zoning districts:

• Flickering or flashing lights
• Laser lights or holograms

Exemptions to standard lighting regulations include:

• Ball diamonds, tennis courts, and playing fields
• Streetlights and utility pole fixtures (governed by subdivision regulations)

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

When undertaking new construction or renovations, lighting considerations should be integrated early in the planning process. Required documentation may include:

• Detailed lighting plans for larger commercial developments
• Location and intensity specifications for illuminated areas
• Integration with landscaping to ensure mature trees won't interfere with street lighting

Special Purpose Lighting

• Swimming Pools: Illumination limited to underwater lighting only
• Access Drives: Internal access drives require lighting emitting at least 5,000 lumens, with light poles no more than 250 feet apart

Supporting Tolono's Lighting Vision

As a longstanding Midwest manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, Bock Lighting understands the importance of preserving community character while meeting modern lighting needs. We appreciate Tolono's commitment to maintaining its historical and architectural heritage - a value we share.

Our experience with communities like Tolono has taught us that thoughtful lighting solutions can enhance safety and functionality while respecting the unique character and historical significance of the village. We're particularly mindful of Tolono's railroad heritage and historical landmarks, including the site of Abraham Lincoln's last Illinois speech.

Bock Lighting strives to serve as an educational resource on lighting regulations rather than just a product provider. We believe in supporting communities through understanding their specific needs and regulations, helping residents and businesses navigate lighting requirements with solutions that align with local standards.

Conclusion

Tolono's lighting regulations seek to balance safety and functionality with aesthetic considerations that honor the village's historical character. From the residential interior lighting requirements to the specific standards for commercial properties, these regulations help create a cohesive community environment.

Property owners should carefully consider these requirements when planning new construction, renovations, or business operations. By understanding and adhering to these standards, residents and business owners contribute to the continued preservation of Tolono's distinctive character while ensuring appropriate illumination for safety and enjoyment.

By maintaining this balance, Tolono continues to honor its rich historical legacy while accommodating modern needs - creating a community that respects its past while looking toward its future.