Lighting Regulations in Middlefield, Ohio: Balancing Tradition and Safety in the Heart of Amish Country

Introduction

Nestled in Northeast Ohio and home to the world's fourth-largest Amish settlement, Middlefield has a unique approach to lighting regulations that reflects its rich cultural heritage. Established in 1799 and incorporated in 1901, this charming village balances the preservation of its traditional character with modern safety needs.

The lighting regulations in Middlefield reflect this careful balance – addressing the community's commitment to simplicity while ensuring adequate illumination for safety. These regulations aim to prevent light pollution and preserve the character of a community where both traditional and modern lifestyles coexist.

Quick Reference Guide

Here are the key lighting requirements that property owners in Middlefield should know:

• Glare Control: All exterior lighting must be shielded to prevent direct glare
• Full Cut-Off Requirements: Lighting fixtures with lamps rated at 2,500+ initial lumens must use full cut-off fixtures
• Sign Illumination: Specific regulations exist for internally and externally illuminated signs
• Residential Sign Lighting: Maximum 2,850 initial lumens for illuminating residential district signs
• Lighting Direction: Exterior illumination must be directed away from property lines toward the principal building or parking areas
• Parking Areas: Lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining residential districts
• Safety Requirements: Exterior lighting for walkways and parking areas must be maintained for pedestrian safety

Understanding Glare Control Requirements

What is Glare?

Middlefield's code specifically defines glare as "the sensation produced by luminance within the visual field that is sufficiently greater than the luminance to which the eyes are adapted, and which causes annoyance, discomfort or loss in visual performance and visibility."

Shielding Requirements

All sources of illumination for building exteriors or grounds must be properly controlled:

• Shielding Mandate: All lighting must be shielded to prevent direct glare
• Directional Requirements: Light must be directed away from lot lines and toward the principal building or parking area
• Full Cut-Off Fixtures: Any lighting with lamps rated at 2,500+ initial lumens must use full cut-off fixtures

What is a Full Cut-Off Fixture?

The code defines a full cut-off light fixture as "one which emits no light above a horizontal plane drawn on the lowest part of the fixture." This requirement helps minimize light pollution and reduces unwanted light spill onto neighboring properties.

Sign Illumination Standards

External Illumination Requirements

The regulations for externally illuminated signs in Middlefield include:

• Direct lighting from an external source must be used
• Light sources must not be visible from the street or adjacent property
• Light fixtures must be aimed so they don't shine beyond the sign boundaries

Internal Illumination Restrictions

For internally illuminated signs:

• Permitted only in non-residential districts
• Only reverse pan channel or halo lighted letters are allowed
• Internally illuminated cabinets must have solid opaque backgrounds with "knock-out" areas for copy and graphics

Residential Sign Lighting

For signs in residential districts:

• Aggregate lighting for any one face should not exceed 2,850 initial lumens (equivalent to a 150-watt incandescent lamp)

Prohibited Lighting Features

The code specifically prohibits:

• Colored light sources for signs
• Illuminated temporary signs
• Animated or flashing signs (with message changes limited to once per day)
• Electronic reader boards with flashing or intermittent illumination

Parking and Pathway Lighting

Parking Area Requirements

When illuminating off-street parking:

• Lighting must be arranged to reflect light away from adjoining residential districts
• Fixtures must not interfere with street traffic
• Lighting should not be confused with traffic control lighting

Pedestrian Safety Lighting

The code requires that:

• Exterior lighting fixtures over steps, paths, walkways, courts, drives, and parking lots must be maintained in operable condition
• These areas must be adequately lit before and after business hours to ensure pedestrian and employee safety
• Fixtures must be properly aimed to prevent light from shining onto adjacent properties

Special Use Lighting Considerations

Home Occupations

For home-based businesses:

• No equipment or process shall create glare detectable to normal senses off the property

Conditional Use Requirements

For various conditional uses:

• The Planning Commission may require an exterior lighting plan
• Further conditions including specific exterior lighting requirements may be prescribed
• These requirements aim to ensure uses are not detrimental to the general welfare by reason of excessive glare

Specialized Equipment

For specialized structures:

• Wireless telecommunications towers should not be artificially lighted except as required by FAA
• Small wind energy conversion systems shall not be artificially lighted except as required by FAA
• If FAA requires lighting, white strobe lights are not permitted during night hours unless no alternative is allowed

Supporting Middlefield's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting, with roots in Northeast Ohio dating back to 1918, understands the unique balance Middlefield maintains between traditional values and modern needs. As a regional lighting manufacturer, we appreciate the village's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while ensuring safety and functionality.

Our expertise aligns with Middlefield's approach to lighting that respects the community's character. We understand how proper lighting can enhance safety without compromising the simplicity valued by the village's diverse population, including its significant Amish community.

Bock Lighting serves as an educational resource for property owners seeking to navigate lighting regulations. Our experience with projects throughout Northeast Ohio provides us with unique insight into the lighting needs of communities like Middlefield that value their historical and cultural identity.

Our commitment to sustainable and responsible lighting practices supports Middlefield's careful approach to development that preserves community character while meeting modern needs.

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Responsibilities

As a property owner in Middlefield, you should:

• Understand the specific regulations that apply to your property type (residential, commercial, etc.)
• Maintain lighting fixtures in proper working condition, especially those for pedestrian safety
• Ensure all new installations comply with shielding and glare prevention requirements
• Consider the impact of your lighting on neighboring properties

Non-Compliance Consequences

The code addresses non-conforming lighting:

• Non-conforming signs must be maintained in good condition
• If repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, signs must be brought into compliance
• Non-conforming status is lost when size/shape is changed, structure altered/moved, or property unused for six months

Conclusion

Middlefield's lighting regulations reflect its unique character as a community that values tradition while embracing necessary modern standards. The emphasis on preventing glare, controlling light trespass, and maintaining appropriate illumination for safety aligns with the village's commitment to balancing growth with preservation.

Property owners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure their lighting enhances the community's character while meeting safety and functionality needs. Through thoughtful implementation of these standards, Middlefield continues to protect its distinctive charm and cultural heritage.

By understanding and following these lighting guidelines, residents and businesses contribute to maintaining the special character that makes Middlefield a treasured community in Northeast Ohio.