Lighting Regulations in Two Harbors, Minnesota: Preserving Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Superior, Two Harbors, Minnesota stands as a testament to the region's rich industrial heritage. Founded in 1888 as a shipping and railroad hub, this charming community of approximately 3,500 residents values both its historical character and natural surroundings.

The city's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to preserving the unique aesthetic of its historical buildings, like the 1909 Carnegie Library, while maintaining the functionality and safety that modern lighting provides. Though Two Harbors' lighting regulations are primarily focused on signage rather than comprehensive outdoor lighting, they reveal a community that values subdued lighting that complements its natural beauty and historic charm.

Quick Reference Guide: Two Harbors Lighting Requirements

• Sign Illumination Focus: Most regulations address sign lighting rather than general exterior lighting • Dark Sky Consideration: Fixtures should not contribute to dark-sky lighting • Light Trespass Prevention: All fixtures must be shielded to prevent light spilling onto adjacent properties • Downward Focused Lighting: External illumination must be downward focused in several districts • Illumination Level: Certain business premises require specific foot candle measurements (30 foot candles for massage establishments) • Parking Areas: Lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining properties

Sign Lighting Regulations

General Requirements

Two Harbors' sign code emphasizes subdued lighting that fits the setting and character of the area. The city has established several general principles for sign illumination:

• Signs may be illuminated by artificial light sources • Signs must be effectively shielded to prevent light beams from:

• Being directed at any portion of traveled roadways
• Creating glare that could impair vehicle operators' vision
• Causing negative impacts on adjacent properties

District-Specific Sign Lighting

Two Harbors applies different sign lighting standards based on zoning districts:

Residential Districts (R1, R2, and R3)

• Signs for non-residential uses must be externally illuminated with downward focused lighting • Apartment buildings and housing developments may have one sign with external, downward focused illumination

Business Districts

• B1-A District: Prohibits internally illuminated signs and exterior neon signs • B2 and MUW Districts: Allow both external and internal illumination, with external lighting required to be downward focused • Industrial Districts (I1 and I2): Signs must be externally illuminated with downward focused lighting

Electronic Message Centers

Electronic signs have specific requirements:

• Must include manufacturer certification that light intensity automatically adjusts to ambient light conditions • Intensity controls must be password-protected to prevent end-user manipulation • Allowed in B1 District (limited to 40 square feet or 50% of total signage) • Allowed in B2 District (limited to 15 square feet or 30% of total signage) • May be allowed in MUW District with Planning Commission approval • Prohibited in MA District

General Exterior Lighting Standards

Though Two Harbors has fewer comprehensive lighting regulations than sign-specific ones, several important standards apply to general exterior lighting:

Light Trespass Prevention

• All light fixtures must be shielded or directed to ensure light is not directed onto adjacent properties • The Planning Commission may require specific lighting standards to avoid conflict with neighboring commercial, residential, and institutional properties

Parking Area Lighting

• Lighting used to illuminate off-street parking areas must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining property

Dark Sky Considerations

• Property owners should consider fixtures that do not contribute to dark-sky lighting • This recommendation aligns with Two Harbors' appreciation for its natural setting and night skies

Home Occupations

• Home-based businesses must not create glare that impacts surrounding properties • Any objectionable features, including glare, must be eliminated through proper design and screening

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Lighting Projects

When planning lighting for your property in Two Harbors, consider these key points:

• Focus on Downward Direction: Most lighting should be directed downward to prevent light trespass • Shield All Fixtures: Ensure all exterior lighting is properly shielded • Consider Historic Context: Choose lighting that complements Two Harbors' historical character • Minimize Glare: Select fixtures that reduce glare for neighbors and passing traffic • Sign Permits: When applying for sign permits, include complete details about the lighting to be used

District-Specific Considerations

Different areas of Two Harbors have distinct requirements:

• Downtown Historic Areas: More restrictive lighting requirements to preserve character • Residential Areas: Focus on minimizing impact on neighbors • Commercial Areas: Balance visibility needs with neighborhood compatibility

Supporting Two Harbors' Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots dating back to 1918 in Northeast Ohio, shares Two Harbors' commitment to preserving historic character while embracing functional lighting solutions. We understand the delicate balance between modern lighting needs and maintaining the distinctive charm that makes communities like Two Harbors special.

Our approach aligns with Two Harbors' emphasis on subdued lighting that complements rather than overwhelms the natural and historical environment. With an appreciation for regional architectural styles and the unique needs of Lake Superior communities, we can serve as a resource for understanding how lighting choices impact community character.

As a company committed to sustainable lighting practices, we support Two Harbors' considerations for dark-sky friendly fixtures that help preserve the night sky views that make this Lake Superior community special. Our experience with historically sensitive communities enables us to help navigate the balance between safety, functionality, and preservation.

Conclusion

Two Harbors' lighting regulations, while primarily focused on signage, reflect the city's commitment to preserving its unique character and natural beauty. By emphasizing subdued lighting, preventing light trespass, and encouraging dark-sky considerations, the community maintains its historic charm while ensuring safety and functionality.

Property owners should focus on downward-directed, shielded lighting that minimizes impact on neighbors and preserves the night sky. When in doubt about specific requirements, consulting with the city's Planning Commission is recommended, as they may impose additional standards to ensure harmony between properties.

The lighting requirements in Two Harbors ultimately serve to enhance the community's distinctive atmosphere, balancing modern needs with respect for the city's railroad and shipping heritage that continues to define its character today.