Lighting Regulations in Wayne, Illinois: Preserving Natural Beauty Through Thoughtful Illumination

Introduction

Wayne, Illinois, is a village with a rich historical character dating back to its founding in the mid-19th century as a railroad outpost. Nestled between the DuPage and Fox rivers and surrounded by native Oak savanna and Tallgrass prairies, Wayne has consistently prioritized the preservation of its natural environment and architectural heritage.

The village's lighting regulations reflect this commitment to conservation and community values. By carefully regulating lighting, Wayne strives to maintain its unique character while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Light Trespass Limits: Off-street parking lighting must not exceed 0.2 foot-candle measured at the lot line
• Pole Height: Light poles cannot exceed 15 feet in height
• Prohibited Lighting: Sodium vapor street lighting is not permitted
• Sign Illumination: Non-flashing illuminated signs only; illumination only until 11:00 PM
• Energy Code: Wayne follows the Illinois Energy Conservation Code (2018 Edition)
• General Principle: Lighting must not cause glare or excessive light onto neighboring properties

Residential Lighting Regulations

Home Occupations

If you operate a business from your home in Wayne, be aware that lighting requirements apply:

• Home occupations must not produce glare detectable outside the dwelling structure
• Any lighting must align with the village's commitment to preserving its natural environment

Residential Property Lighting

While specific residential lighting standards are limited, Wayne's general principles apply:

• Outdoor fixtures must be installed to avoid glare or excessive light on neighboring properties
• Lighting should be subdued while still ensuring safety
• Direct rays of light must not beam upon adjoining residences

Commercial and Business District Lighting

Sign Illumination

Wayne maintains strict control over illuminated signage in business districts:

• Only non-flashing illuminated signs with no moving parts are permitted
• Sign illumination is permitted only during business hours or until 11:00 PM (whichever is earlier)
• Direct rays of light from illuminated signs must not beam upon residential buildings, into Residence Districts, or into street rights-of-way

Parking Area Lighting

For commercial parking areas, Wayne has established specific requirements:

• Lighting must be directed away from residential properties and public streets
• Illumination cannot exceed 0.2 foot-candle measured at the lot line
• All lighting must conform to standards in the Wayne site plan regulations
• Parking areas with more than 5 spaces adjoining public ways or residential districts require screening to prevent headlight illumination

Site Development Lighting Standards

General Site Lighting

When developing property in Wayne, lighting plans must include:

• Location, size, height, type, illumination, and intensity of all lighting fixtures
• On-site lighting standards that are as subdued as possible while providing safe illumination for vehicles and pedestrians
• Designs that minimize reflected light impacts on abutting properties and the neighborhood
• Conformance with the energy efficient lighting systems requirements of the Illinois Energy Conservation Code

Street and Public Area Lighting

For subdivisions and public areas, Wayne requires:

• Street lights at subdivision entrances, street intersections, and other locations as recommended by the Village Engineer
• No sodium vapor street lighting is permitted
• Existing utility poles and light standards should be used wherever practicable
• Type, intensity, and density of street lights are subject to Village Board approval

Special Use Lighting Regulations

Temporary and Special Event Lighting

Wayne has specific regulations for temporary lighting:

• Special events (like equine shows) may use temporary lighting, but it must be removed after the event
• No permanent lighting installations are permitted for these events
• Temporary sales facilities and model homes require lighting plans approved by the village board

Exit and Safety Lighting

Safety lighting has specific requirements:

• Exit signs must be internally illuminated
• All electrical equipment and installations must conform to provisions in section 8-1-4 of the Wayne village code

What Property Owners Should Know

Planning for Compliance

Before installing new lighting on your property:

• Consult the building department to ensure compliance with current regulations
• Be mindful of light trespass and glare that could affect neighbors
• Remember the 15-foot height limitation for light poles
• Consider the historical and natural character of Wayne in your lighting choices
• For business owners, remember sign illumination must cease by 11:00 PM

Historic Preservation Considerations

If your property is in a historic area:

• Applications for building permits or certificates of appropriateness may be forwarded to the historic sites commission
• "Site improvements" including light fixtures may require special approval
• Lighting should complement Wayne's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage

Supporting Wayne's Lighting Vision

Wayne's lighting regulations reflect its commitment to preserving the village's unique character while ensuring functionality and safety. The regulations aim to minimize light pollution, protect the natural environment, and maintain the historical charm that makes Wayne special.

As property owners in Wayne, understanding and respecting these lighting guidelines helps maintain the village's distinctive atmosphere. The balance between modern lighting needs and preservation of Wayne's natural darkness enhances the quality of life for all residents.

When planning lighting projects, consider how your choices will integrate with Wayne's historical railroad heritage and natural prairie surroundings. By working together, residents and businesses can ensure that Wayne remains the charming, conservation-minded community it has been since its founding.

Conclusion

Wayne's lighting regulations may not be as extensive as those in larger municipalities, but they clearly prioritize the preservation of the village's natural environment and historical character. With its roots as a railroad outpost and its continued commitment to conservation, Wayne has developed lighting standards that balance functionality with preservation.

By adhering to these regulations, property owners contribute to maintaining Wayne's unique charm and protecting its natural landscapes. The village's approach to lighting reflects its broader values: a tight-knit community dedicated to sustainable practices and the protection of its historical and natural heritage.

Whether you're a long-time resident or new to Wayne, these lighting guidelines help ensure that the village remains a special place where the natural beauty of the Oak savanna and Tallgrass prairies can be appreciated for generations to come.