Lighting Regulations in Wyoming, Ohio: Preserving Historic Character While Ensuring Safety and Functionality

Introduction

Wyoming, Ohio, with its rich history dating back to 1874, takes great pride in preserving its historical character and architectural heritage. The city's commitment to thoughtful development is evident in its approach to lighting regulations, which aim to balance modern functionality with the preservation of Wyoming's unique charm.

Established as a village in 1874 with just 600 residents, Wyoming has evolved into a vibrant city while maintaining its distinct character. The transition to city status in 1949 marked a significant milestone in Wyoming's development, coinciding with the adoption of a City Manager form of government that continues to guide its thoughtful approach to regulations today.

Wyoming's lighting regulations reflect the community's dedication to preserving its historical ambiance while ensuring safety and functionality for residents and visitors alike.

Quick Reference Guide to Wyoming's Lighting Regulations

• Exterior Lighting Height: Maximum 20 feet above grade
• Exterior Light Direction: Must be shielded and directed away from adjacent properties
• Sign Illumination - Internal: Maximum 360 watts total with bulbs not exceeding 60 watts
• Sign Illumination - External: Maximum 300 watts per side with no bulb exceeding 150 watts
• String Lights: Must be maintained with burnt bulbs replaced promptly
• Prohibited Lighting: Searchlights, exposed neon tubes, and lights causing glare on adjacent properties

Exterior Lighting Requirements

Shielding and Direction Requirements

All exterior light sources on private property in Wyoming must be stationary and properly controlled to minimize impact on neighboring properties. According to Section 1183.19 of the city code:

• All exterior light sources must be stationary and shielded or recessed
• Light direction must be away from adjacent properties and public rights-of-way
• Canopy, perimeter, and flood lighting are all subject to these requirements

Height Restrictions

Wyoming maintains a reasonable height limitation for exterior lighting to preserve the residential character of the community:

• Maximum height cannot exceed 20 feet above grade
• This applies to all exterior lighting fixtures on private property

Front Yard Lighting

Wyoming's regulations specifically permit "light poles" in front yards as acceptable residentially scaled items. This provision allows homeowners to enhance their property's appearance and safety while maintaining the community's aesthetic standards.

Sign Illumination Standards

Wyoming's regulations for sign lighting are particularly detailed, showing the city's commitment to maintaining its visual appeal while allowing businesses to effectively communicate.

Internal Illumination Requirements

For internally illuminated signs, Wyoming has established specific standards:

• Background must be darker than the lettering so no light passes through
• Only letters, numbers, and identifying symbols may be illuminated
• Individual bulbs cannot exceed 60 watts
• Bulb spacing must be at least 12 inches apart
• Maximum total wattage cannot exceed 360 watts
• For U-shaped or continuous bulbs, each direction change counts as a separate bulb

External Illumination Requirements

Wyoming also provides clear guidelines for externally illuminated signs:

• Maximum wattage cannot exceed 300 watts per side
• Individual bulbs cannot exceed 150 watts
• Lighting must be continuous and solely for illuminating the message

Special Sign Types

Different sign types have specific lighting requirements:

Canopy Signs

• Back-lighted canopy signs limited to 15 watts per linear foot
• External illumination limited to 300 watts per side

Portable and Temporary Signs

• Temporary banner signs and sandwich board signs cannot be illuminated
• Portable signs may be illuminated internally or externally
• Flashing lights or changing intensities are prohibited

Construction and Safety Lighting

Barricades and Warning Lights

Wyoming prioritizes safety through specific requirements for lighting around construction and hazardous areas:

• Excavations, wells, cesspools, or structures under construction must be protected with warning lights at night
• No person shall damage or remove barricades or warning lights placed for public protection
• The City Manager is authorized to furnish necessary barricades and lights if property owners fail to do so within 24 hours of notification

Emergency Lighting

In cases of emergency, the city has established clear protocols:

• The City Manager is authorized to light areas as needed
• Costs for emergency lighting will be charged to the property owner
• Temporary repairs, barricading, and lighting costs will be billed to the property owner

String Light Regulations

Wyoming has specific requirements for string lights installed under permitting:

• Burnt or malfunctioning bulbs must be replaced in a timely manner
• If string lights pose a hazardous condition, the City Manager may require immediate corrective action
• All maintenance costs must be covered by the holder of the Revocable Street License

Prohibited Lighting

To maintain Wyoming's aesthetic standards and prevent nuisances, certain lighting types are explicitly prohibited:

• Searchlights are not permitted
• Signs with exposed neon tubes are generally prohibited (with limited exceptions)
• Any lighting causing annoying glare on adjacent properties or rights-of-way
• LED signs require specific approval in accordance with Section 1331.09
• Flashing lights or lights that change in intensity are not permitted for signs

What Property Owners Should Know

Development Plans

If you're planning new construction or significant alterations in Wyoming:

• Your development plan application must include details about site lighting
• Be prepared to provide engineering and architectural drawings showing lighting features
• Include narrative descriptions of any lighting elements in sufficient detail

Historical Context Considerations

Wyoming's commitment to preserving its historical character makes lighting choices particularly important:

• Consider how your lighting choices complement the historical architecture of your property
• Remember that Wyoming values the repair, renovation, and renewal of older homes
• Lighting should enhance, not detract from, the historic charm of the community

Compliance and Maintenance

Stay compliant with Wyoming's regulations by:

• Regularly inspecting and maintaining your lighting fixtures
• Promptly replacing burnt-out bulbs in string lights
• Ensuring all exterior lighting remains properly shielded and directed
• Keeping sign illumination within the specified wattage limits

Supporting Wyoming's Lighting Vision

At Bock Lighting, we share Wyoming's commitment to preserving historical character while embracing practical functionality. As a Northeast Ohio manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we understand the importance of maintaining the unique charm that makes communities like Wyoming special.

Our experience working with historic communities throughout the region has given us a deep appreciation for the balance Wyoming strikes between preservation and modern needs. We understand that lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing safety and functionality while respecting the architectural heritage that defines Wyoming's character.

Bock Lighting strives to serve as an educational resource for Wyoming residents and businesses navigating lighting regulations. Our team appreciates the thoughtful approach Wyoming has taken to lighting standards that support both community character and practical needs.

With our understanding of regional architectural styles and lighting requirements, we're committed to supporting Wyoming's vision for responsible lighting that complements its historic charm while providing modern functionality.

Conclusion

Wyoming, Ohio's lighting regulations reflect the city's thoughtful approach to community development—balancing preservation of its historic character with the practical lighting needs of residents and businesses. From exterior lighting and sign illumination to construction safety and string lights, these regulations aim to create a cohesive, attractive environment that honors Wyoming's heritage.

By understanding and following these lighting standards, property owners contribute to maintaining the unique charm and character that has defined Wyoming since its establishment in 1874. These regulations aren't just about compliance—they're about preserving the special qualities that make Wyoming a distinctive community with a strong sense of place and history.