Lighting Regulations in Tremont, Illinois: Balancing History, Safety, and Community Character

Introduction: Preserving Tremont's Unique Character

Nestled in Tazewell County, Tremont, Illinois carries a rich historical legacy dating back to the 1820s. Named for the "Tri-Mounts" - three distinctive mounds that once prominently bordered the vast prairie landscape - this village has carefully maintained its unique character while embracing necessary growth and development.

The lighting regulations in Tremont reflect this commitment to preserving community character while ensuring safety and functionality. These standards have evolved to support the village's goal of maintaining its historical integrity while meeting modern needs - a balancing act that requires thoughtful regulation of everything from street lighting to commercial property illumination.

Quick Reference Guide to Tremont's Lighting Regulations

Before diving into the details, here's a snapshot of the most critical lighting requirements in Tremont:

• Residential Areas: Lighting must be shielded and directed to avoid impact on neighboring properties
• Commercial Properties: All lighting must be confined to the property and shielded from residential areas
• Street Lighting: Combination of yard lights and strategic pole placement required in subdivisions
• Swimming Pools: Lights must be arranged to direct illumination away from adjoining properties
• Minimum Lighting Level: 30 lux horizontal (measured at 30 inches from floor) required in certain establishments
• Exit Lighting: 6-inch lettering with red globe lights required for assembly halls
• General Prohibition: Flashing, moving, or intermittent lighting not permitted

Residential Lighting Requirements

Yard and Property Lighting

In Tremont's residential areas, exterior lighting must be thoughtfully implemented. The village code specifically states that all outdoor lighting must be shielded to reduce glare and arranged to reflect light away from adjacent residential properties.

Subdivision Lighting Standards

For new residential subdivisions, Tremont has established specific lighting requirements:

• Each lot must have individual yard lights
• Yard lights must be placed within ten feet from the back of the sidewalk or edge of right-of-way
• Street pole lights are required at intersections where one or more streets have posted speeds of 30+ mph
• Additional street pole lights may be required based on street alignment, as determined by the Village Engineer

Model Home Restrictions

For model homes used for display purposes, lighting restrictions are particularly strict:

• No exterior spotlights allowed - only standard yard lights and exterior door lights typically found on single-family homes
• No illuminated signage larger than nine square feet

Commercial Property Lighting

General Commercial Requirements

Tremont's code provides clear guidance for commercial property lighting:

• All outdoor lighting must be shielded to reduce glare
• Light must be directed toward and confined to ground areas such as lawns and parking lots
• External building illumination must be spaced and shielded to avoid interfering with vision of people on adjacent highways or properties
• All artificial lighting must remain stationary and constant in intensity and color when in use

Specific Business Requirements

Liquor Establishments

• Rooms where liquor is sold for consumption must be continuously lighted during business hours
• Natural or artificial white light must ensure all parts of the interior are clearly visible

Adult Entertainment Venues

• Minimum lighting level of 30 lux horizontal (measured at 30 inches from floor)
• Lighting must be equally distributed throughout public areas
• No flashing lights, searchlights, or spotlights permitted on exterior

Outdoor Theaters

• Lighting design must receive approval from Code Enforcement Officer and Village Engineer
• All lighting must be confined within and directed onto the theater premises

Safety and Public Space Lighting

Exit Lighting Requirements

For assembly halls accommodating 100 or more people:

• Signs with "Exit" in letters at least six inches high must be placed over every exit door
• A light with a red globe must be installed at or over each sign
• These lights must remain illuminated during all public events until the audience has departed

Construction Site Safety

Any construction or repair work on streets, sidewalks, or public places requires:

• Suitable barricades to prevent injury
• Barricades must be protected by a light at nighttime

Swimming Pool Illumination

Pool lighting has specific requirements to minimize neighborhood impact:

• All lights used to illuminate swimming pools must be arranged and shaded to reflect light away from adjoining premises

Signage and Special Use Lighting

Sign Illumination Standards

Tremont strictly regulates how signs can be illuminated:

• No sign shall be of excessive brightness
• No flashing, scintillating or moving lights permitted
• Illumination must not create hazardous or annoying glare
• Sign lighting must not interfere with traffic control devices or obstruct motorists' views

Parking Area Lighting

For all off-street parking areas:

• Lighting must be installed to confine illumination within the parking area
• Light must be directed specifically onto the parking area only

Utility Infrastructure

To minimize visual clutter:

• Existing utility poles and light standards should be used whenever practicable
• Installation of additional utility poles is strongly discouraged

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Tremont's lighting regulations helps ensure your property remains compliant while contributing positively to the community's character. When planning lighting installations:

1. Consider your neighbors: Direct light away from adjacent properties, particularly residences
2. Avoid excessive brightness: Lighting should be functional without creating glare or nuisance
3. Maintain consistent lighting: Avoid flashing or moving lights of any kind
4. Follow specific use requirements: Different property types have unique lighting standards
5. Consult with professionals: The Village Engineer or Code Enforcement Officer can provide guidance for complex installations

Remember that these regulations exist to preserve Tremont's distinctive character while ensuring safety and functionality for all residents and visitors.

Supporting Tremont's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in the Midwest, understands the unique balance that communities like Tremont strive to achieve between preserving historical character and meeting modern lighting needs.

As a manufacturer with deep appreciation for the architectural heritage of small Midwestern towns, Bock shares Tremont's commitment to thoughtful development that respects community character. Our understanding of the region's distinctive architectural styles and lighting requirements allows us to serve as a knowledgeable resource for residents navigating lighting regulations.

We recognize Tremont's emphasis on preserving its historical roots while accommodating necessary growth – values that align with our own commitment to creating lighting solutions that respect community context. Our experience with projects that maintain historical integrity while meeting contemporary safety and efficiency standards positions us as a valuable partner in supporting Tremont's lighting vision.

Conclusion

Tremont's lighting regulations reflect the village's commitment to preserving its unique character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors. From residential neighborhoods to commercial districts, these standards help maintain the community atmosphere that makes Tremont special.

By understanding and following these regulations, property owners contribute to the village's efforts to balance growth with preservation – maintaining the distinctive character that has defined Tremont since its founding among the three mounds that gave it its name.

Whether you're planning a new construction project, renovating an existing property, or simply updating your exterior lighting, keeping these regulations in mind will help ensure your contribution to Tremont's streetscape supports the village's vision for its future.