Lighting Regulations in Waterman, Illinois: Preserving Small-Town Character While Ensuring Safety

Introduction

Nestled within DeKalb County, the village of Waterman, Illinois, carries a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Named after railroad industry figure Daniel Waterman, this small community of approximately 1,500 residents has carefully maintained its agricultural roots and small-town charm through thoughtful development policies.

While Waterman doesn't have formally designated historical districts, its commitment to preserving its traditional character is evident in the regulations that govern various aspects of village life—including lighting. These regulations reflect the community's desire to balance modern safety needs with the preservation of Waterman's quaint, rural atmosphere.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Lighting Requirements

Before diving into the details, here's a summary of the most critical lighting regulations in Waterman:

• Light Trespass Prevention: All lighting on private property must use cutoff lenses to direct light away from adjoining properties and streets
• Shielding Requirements: Flood and spot lights must be shielded to prevent glare on neighboring properties and roadways
• Parking Area Lighting: Must be directed away from adjacent properties and roadways
• Streetlight Specifications:
• Business areas: 30' minimum mounting height, 250 watt HPS with horizontal cutoff
• Residential areas: 150 watt HPS with horizontal cutoff, village-approved style
• Photocell Control: Required for all lighting unless otherwise directed
• Compatibility Standard: Lighting arrangements must be compatible with surrounding land uses

Preventing Light Trespass and Nuisance

Understanding Light Trespass

One of Waterman's primary lighting concerns is preventing unnecessary illumination of neighboring properties. The village code explicitly prohibits "excessive illumination" that substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of other properties.

Required Light Controls

To prevent light trespass, Waterman requires:

• Cutoff Lenses: All lighting on private property must use cutoff lenses
• Directional Design: Lighting must be arranged to direct light away from adjoining premises and streets
• Shielding Requirements: Flood and spot lights must be shielded when necessary to prevent glare

Planning and Approval

For certain projects, the superintendent of public works may require detailed lighting design plans and calculations. This ensures compliance with village standards before installation begins.

Specific Lighting Requirements by Area

Parking and Loading Areas

Waterman has specific requirements for illuminating commercial parking:

• All lighting used for off-street parking and loading areas must be directed away from adjacent properties and roadways
• The arrangement must be compatible with surrounding land uses

Establishments Serving Alcohol

Businesses serving liquor have unique lighting requirements:

• Rooms where liquor is sold must be continuously lighted during business hours
• Natural or artificial white light must be used
• All parts of the interior must be clearly visible from the street, alley, or sidewalk
• No lighting arrangements that prevent a full view of the premises are permitted

Comprehensive Streetlight Standards

Planning and Submission Requirements

The village maintains strict control over streetlight implementation:

• Locations are determined by the village board
• Developers must submit two copies of street lighting calculations along with proposed equipment specifications
• Systems must comply with the "American National Standard Practice For Roadway Lighting" published by the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America

Technical Specifications

For Business and Corporate Areas:

• Pole height: Minimum 30 feet mounting height
• Spacing: Every 150 feet on alternate sides of the street
• Luminaries: 250 watt HPS with horizontal cutoff (or village engineer approved alternative)

For Residential Areas:

• Style: Must be approved by the village board
• Placement: At each intersection, the ends of cul-de-sacs, and no more than 750 feet apart
• Luminaries: 150 watt high pressure sodium (HPS) with horizontal cutoff

Installation Requirements

• All wiring: Must be underground, 3-wire, direct burial cable, USE type
• Conduit: 2-inch diameter galvanized steel meeting ANSI C80.1 standards, UL tested and labeled
• Conduit placement: Required under all roadways, driveways, and sidewalks
• Pole setbacks: Minimum 3 feet back from curb, 6 feet from shoulder on rural streets
• Control: Photocell controlled unless directed otherwise by the village engineer

Timing and Operational Requirements

• The developer must provide an operational streetlight system before any occupancy permit is issued
• The street lighting system must be turned on when any dwelling is occupied

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning Your Lighting Project

When planning exterior lighting for your Waterman property, keep these key points in mind:

• Focus on containment: Ensure your lighting does not spill onto neighboring properties
• Use proper fixtures: Select fixtures with appropriate cutoff lenses and shielding
• Consider your surroundings: Lighting arrangements should complement surrounding land uses
• Seek guidance early: For commercial projects, consult with the village public works department during planning stages

Special Circumstances

In certain situations, additional considerations apply:

• Light poles in riverine Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) may be constructed without individual permits
• Commercial or multi-family developments may face additional scrutiny of lighting plans during site plan review

Supporting Waterman's Lighting Vision

Waterman's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving the village's quaint, small-town character while ensuring public safety. These carefully crafted standards help maintain the natural darkness of the night sky that has historically been part of rural Illinois communities.

Local lighting suppliers and contractors who understand Waterman's unique character can serve as valuable resources for property owners. Working with professionals who appreciate the village's historical roots and agricultural heritage can help ensure that lighting projects enhance rather than detract from the community's distinctive atmosphere.

By prioritizing thoughtful lighting design that respects both neighbors and community character, property owners contribute to the preservation of Waterman's small-town charm for future generations.

Conclusion

Waterman's lighting regulations demonstrate a thoughtful balance between modern safety needs and traditional community values. By preventing excessive illumination, requiring appropriate shielding, and establishing clear standards for streetlights, the village protects its small-town aesthetic while ensuring adequate visibility.

For property owners, compliance with these regulations isn't just about avoiding violations—it's about being a good neighbor and contributing to the preservation of Waterman's distinctive character. Through responsible lighting practices, residents and businesses alike can help maintain the village's charming, rural atmosphere for years to come.