Lighting Regulations in Whiteland, Indiana: Balancing Growth with Small-Town Character

Introduction

Nestled just 19 miles south of Indianapolis, the town of Whiteland, Indiana has maintained a delicate balance between preserving its historical roots and accommodating modern growth since its incorporation in 1886. First laid out in 1863 with just 40 lots and three main businesses, Whiteland has carefully managed its development while honoring its architectural heritage and community values.

Whiteland's lighting regulations reflect this balanced approach – promoting safety and functionality while respecting neighbors' rights to enjoy their property without light intrusion. These regulations are designed with the town's climate in mind, accounting for hot, humid summers and mild winters typical of north-central Johnson County.

Quick Reference Guide: Key Lighting Requirements

• Light Trespass Limits: Illuminated signs must not exceed 0.3 foot-candles at property lines adjoining residential districts and 0.5 foot-candles at property lines adjoining non-residential properties
• Electronic Message Centers (EMCs): Must include automatic dimming capability that adjusts brightness relative to ambient light
• Security Lighting: Must be oriented inward to prevent projection onto surrounding properties
• Church/Congregation Parking Lots: Lighting must be arranged to reflect away from residential properties
• Development Applications: Must include proposed lighting plans
• General Principle: Lighting should not adversely affect adjacent properties or rights-of-way

Sign & Billboard Illumination Requirements

Electronic Message Centers (EMCs)

EMCs have specific technical requirements to ensure they don't create light pollution or distraction:

• Maximum Brightness: No more than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light
• Measurement Formula: Distance = √(area of EMC sign in sq. ft. × 100)
• Mandatory Features: Automatic dimming capability that adjusts to ambient light conditions
• Documentation: Certification of compliance must be submitted to the Planning Director at time of installation
• Quantity Limits: No more than one EMC sign per property, development, or building

Billboard Lighting Standards

Billboards have detailed lighting specifications designed to minimize light pollution:

• Light Mounting: Must be mounted on the catwalk immediately below the bottom of the lowest trim
• Lamp Specifications: 400-watt metal halide with no greater than 125 foot-candles at any point beyond the advertising face
• Light Containment: No light pollution beyond the advertising face is permitted
• Electronic Billboard Brightness: Maximum illumination of 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light, measured at 250 feet from the billboard base or the nearest residential property line (whichever is less)
• Dimming Capability: Must include automatic dimming that adjusts to ambient light

Illuminated Sign Regulations

• Code Compliance: Must meet National Electric Code standards
• Maintenance: All illuminating elements must be kept in satisfactory working condition
• Safety Requirement: Neither direct nor reflected light may create traffic hazards
• Light Shielding: Light must be shaded, shielded, or directed to prevent excessive brightness at property lines

Property & Security Lighting

Security Lighting Requirements

Security lighting installations must follow these guidelines:

• Orientation: All ground level security lighting must be oriented inward
• Projection Control: Lighting must not project onto surrounding properties
• Purpose Limitation: Lighting is only permitted when needed for safety or security reasons (unless required by authorities like the FAA)

Special Use Lighting Restrictions

Different types of properties have specific lighting requirements:

• Church/Congregation Parking Lots: Lighting must be arranged to reflect away from residential properties
• Christmas/Holiday Tree Sales: Lighting must not adversely affect adjacent properties or rights-of-way
• Major Developments: Must submit comprehensive lighting plans as part of the application process

Residential & Special Event Lighting Restrictions

Residential Sign Lighting

The following residential sign categories prohibit illumination entirely:

• Identification Signs: No illumination permitted
• Home Occupation Signs: No illumination permitted
• Temporary Residential Signs: No illumination permitted

Special Events & Temporary Installations

• Institutional Signs/Banners: No illumination permitted
• Sports Sponsorship Signs: May only be illuminated by the athletic field lighting when in use
• Special Event Signage: No illumination permitted
• Entry Signs: May be illuminated according to standards, but internal illumination is prohibited
• Group Signs: May be illuminated according to standards, but internal illumination is prohibited

Variance Considerations for Lighting

When considering variances related to buildings, land, or premises, the town's Board applies an important lighting-related criterion:

• The variance must not impair the adequate supply of light and air to adjacent properties

This consideration demonstrates Whiteland's commitment to preserving quality of life while allowing reasonable development flexibility.

What Property Owners Should Know

Understanding Whiteland's lighting regulations helps property owners make informed decisions when planning outdoor lighting, signage, or development projects:

• Development Planning: Include detailed lighting plans in your applications
• Sign Installation: Know the specific illumination limits before installing illuminated signage
• Good Neighbor Practices: Orient security lighting inward to prevent light trespass
• Technical Compliance: When installing EMCs or illuminated signs, ensure equipment meets brightness limitations and includes required dimming capabilities
• Documentation: Maintain certification of compliance for EMC installations

By proactively addressing these requirements, property owners can avoid potential compliance issues while contributing to Whiteland's community character.

Supporting Whiteland's Lighting Vision

Whiteland's approach to lighting regulations reflects its commitment to preserving small-town character while accommodating growth and modern needs. These balanced regulations help maintain dark skies where appropriate while providing necessary illumination for safety and commerce.

Local lighting professionals familiar with Whiteland's regulations can be valuable partners in navigating these requirements. They understand the town's unique character and can help property owners design lighting solutions that comply with local codes while meeting practical needs.

Communities like Whiteland benefit from lighting approaches that respect both historical context and contemporary functionality. Professional lighting designers who appreciate the town's values can help translate technical requirements into practical solutions that enhance the community.

Conclusion

Whiteland's lighting regulations represent a thoughtful approach to balancing modern needs with small-town character. From controlling light trespass to ensuring appropriate illumination of signs and billboards, these standards help maintain the town's aesthetic appeal while providing for safety and functionality.

As Whiteland continues to grow and develop, these lighting regulations will play an important role in preserving the community's unique character and quality of life. By understanding and respecting these standards, property owners contribute to the town's ongoing efforts to honor its past while embracing its future.