Draft chapter 165: Zoning Regulations

§ 165.07 Exterior Lighting

The 2026 draft's § 165.07 beside the current code's Zoning § 8.01, Zoning § 8.03, Zoning § 8.04, Zoning § 8.05, Zoning § 8.06: removed words are struck through, added words underlined.

Comparison with a draft: not adopted. The archive holds no public hearing, ordinance or vote adopting the recodified Code through the October 20, 2026 meeting packet. Until one is adopted, every page here compares the consolidated code with a draft that can still change: the revised draft with the October 6 changes is not in the archive.

A comparison with the August 2026 draft recodification prepared by Iowa Codification for the City. The draft has not been adopted and can still change; the current code (unofficial compilation) governs until a recodified Code is adopted. Matches between sections are made by machine from the texts and are reviewed where uncertain.

Merged wording changed (91% same words)

Notable changes

  • Permit, license or registration: …Design Standards Manual, Section 11 for lighting minimums. Table 2 Maximum Foot Candles At A Property Line - Horizontal and Vertical Measurement Residential to Non-Residential to Non-Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Residential Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours 0.25 0.5 2 5 3 10 0.25 0.5 0.5 0.… …
  • Text removed: …and approval by the City of Tiffin. Table 2 sets forth the maximum allowable foot-candles to be measured both at a property line and internal to a non-residential property. The standards consider the nature of the land uses, the nature of the abutting land uses, and whether for a non-residential use the time is during hours of operation or security hours. Maximum foot-candles allowable are set for lighting internal to the property in ques… 1 Lighting in Residential Districts Lighting in Non-Residential…
  • Text removed: …SU = Special Use NP = Not Permitted TABLE 2 MAXIMUM FOOT CANDLES AT A PROPERTY LINE - HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL MEASUREMENT Residential to Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours hours Hours Hours 0.25 0.5 2 5 3 10 0.25 0.5 0.5 0.… (2) Table 2 sets forth the maximum allowable foot-candles…

What changed

1. Exterior lighting is used to illuminate residential, commercial, industrial, PAD PAD, and public uses; uses including, but not limited to, parking lots, sidewalks, signs, and other elements within the City of Tiffin. City. When well designed and properly installed, exterior lighting can be and is very useful in improving visibility and safety, providing a sense of security, and complementing the character of the City of Tiffin. City. If exterior lighting is not well designed and properly installed it can be inefficient, cause glare, and create light trespass and sky glow. Light trespass falling over property lines can illuminate adjacent grounds or buildings in an objectionable manner. In order to insure that exterior lighting is well designed, and impacts on adjacent properties are limited, the following requirements are set forth controlling exterior lighting in both residential and non-residential zoning districts.
2. Regulations. All public and private exterior lighting must be in conformance with the requirements as specifically established by this Section 8 Zoning Code and in general, exterior lighting is shaded or inwardly directed so that no direct lighting is cast upon adjacent zoning lots and adequate exterior lighting, for security purposes, is required for parking areas.
3. Procedure.
A. Lighting Plan Required
Required. A lighting plan is required for all non-residential uses in residential family zoning districts, multiple family developments other than duplexes, commercial, industrial, institutional, and public uses including uses developed by other units of local government. At the time any exterior lighting is installed or substantially modified, a lighting plan must be submitted to the Planning and Zoning Commission in order to determine whether the requirements of this Section section have been met. A lighting plan is required for all special uses and planned area developments. Where a lighting plan is required, the plan must shall include the following:
1. (1) A site plan showing pole locations, building mounted lights, bollard lights with schematic wiring layout and power source connection;
2. (2) Specifications for luminaries and lamp types, poles, wiring, conduit conduit, and appurtenant construction including photographs or drawings of proposed luminaries;
3. (3) Pole, luminaries, and foundation details including pole height, height of building mounted lights, mounting height height, and height of the luminaries;
4. (4) Elevations of the site including buildings, luminaries luminaries, and other structures sufficient to determine the total cutoff angle of all luminaries and their relationship to abutting parcels;
5. (5) Lamp wattage of all luminaries proposed;
6. (6) Photometric plans that show the foot candle - horizontal (horizontal measurement internal to the site and at the property lines and the foot candle - candle) vertical measurement at the property lines only. (Foot candle
- horizontal measurements is are taken along a horizontal plane at a height of three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground. Foot-candle - vertical measurement is taken at a minimum height of three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground but must shall also be required at any height along a vertical plane at a property boundary pursuant to the direction of the Zoning Administrator.) Photometric plans must shall be based on a light loss factor of 1.0.
7. (7) Other information and data reasonably necessary to evaluate the required lighting plan pursuant to the request of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
4. Measuring Light Levels.
A. Metering Equipment
Equipment. Light levels of both direct and indirect light must shall be measured in foot-candles with a direct reading, portable light meter. Readings must shall be taken only after the cell has been exposed long enough to provide a constant reading.
B. Method of Measurement
Measurement. Foot-candle - horizontal measurements must shall be taken along a horizontal plane at a height of three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground. Foot-candle vertical measurement must shall be taken at a minimum height of 3.5 three and one half feet above the ground, but it may also be taken at any height along a vertical plane along a property boundary line if required by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
5. Standards and Requirements.
A. Tables 1 and 2
2. The standards and requirements set forth in Tables 1 and 2 the following tables regulate and govern the use of, design of, construction use, design, construction, or modification of any lighting system for the purpose of illuminating exterior areas including, but not limited to, signs, parking areas, buildings, building, landscaping, porches, and driveways.
(1) Table 1 sets forth whether the proposed wattage of a luminaries is permitted, not permitted or a special use. In residential zoning districts, whether a specified wattage is permitted or not permitted is based on the width of the street right-of-way abutting the proposed luminaries. In non-residential zoning districts, the permitted wattage of proposed exterior lighting is based on whether the lighting is internal or external on the parcel, and if external (abutting a residential zoning district or street right-of-way) the setback of the proposed lighting from the property line/street line or street right-of-way.
Uses permitted by right may be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission pending a review of the documents submitted that meet the requirements of this Section. section. Uses or lighting plans that require a special use permit shall meet the requirements for special uses that provide for a public hearing held by the Planning and Zoning Commission and approval by the City of Tiffin. Council.
Table 1 Lighting in Residential Districts Lighting in Non-Residential Districts Multiple Non-External - Abutting a Residential Single Interna Family Residential Zoning District or Street Family l R.O.W. Uses Use Use (Institutional Setback Setback Setback Setback etc.)
Street Street Right-Less Less Less Right-Street Right-of-than than than 200 of-of-Way Way 40 100 200 Feet + Way Width Width Feet Feet Feet Width 80 80 80 Lamp <80 <80 <80 feet feet feet Wattage feet feet feet + + + 0-250 (1) P P P P P P P P P P 251-400 NP SU NP SU NP P SU P P P 401+ NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP SU SU
(1) A luminary without a cutoff shall not exceed 100 watts P = Permitted SU = Special Use NP = Not Permitted
(2)
Table 2 sets forth froth the maximum allowable foot-candles to be measured both at a property line and internal to a non-residential property. The standards consider the nature of the land uses, the nature of the abutting land uses, and whether for a non-residential use the time is during hours of operation or security hours. Maximum foot-candles allowable are set for lighting internal to the property in question. Refer to Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS) Design Standards Manual, Section 11, for lighting minimums. Table 2 Maximum Foot Candles At A Property Line - Horizontal and Vertical Measurement Residential to Non-Residential to Non-Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Residential Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours
0.25 0.5 2 5 3 10 0.25 0.5 0.5 0.5 Maximum Foot Candles - Internal - Horizontal Measurement Residential Districts Non-Residential Districts Horizontal Operating hours Security Hours Permitted Special Use Variation Permitted Special Use Variation Permitted Special Use Variation <10 10 - <15 15+ <15 15-50 50+ 3 +3 - 6 6+ Foot-candle - Horizontal Measurement. The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the horizontal position. Foot-candle - Vertical Measurement. The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the vertical position. Operating Hours. The period of time from one hour prior to opening to one hour after closing of a non-residential establishment. Security Hours. The period of time from one hour after closing to one hour prior to opening of a non-residential establishment.

B. Total Height and Height of Luminaries (See definition for Height of Luminaries and Total Height and Figure B). The difference between total height and the height of the luminaries shall not exceed 4 four feet.
C. Standards for Luminaries with Cutoffs (See Definitions and Figure C attached) Cutoffs.
1. (1) Cutoff Angle. To be considered a cutoff luminary, the cutoff angle must be 75 Degrees degrees or less.
2. Height: (2) Height. The maximum height of cutoff luminaries, either freestanding or attached to a building or other structure, is twenty-five (25) 25 feet as a permitted use. A luminary greater than twenty-five (25) 25 feet shall require special use permit approval.
3. (3) Control of Glare: Glare. A cutoff luminary shall be designed to shield the light source completely from observer three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground at any point along an abutting property line.
D. Standards for Luminaries with No Cutoffs (See Definitions and Figure D attached) Cutoffs.
1. (1) Cutoff Angle: Angle. A luminary shall be considered to have no cutoff if it is unshielded or has a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees.
2. Height (2) Height. The maximum permitted height of a luminary with no cutoff or with a cutoff greater than 75 degrees, that provides illumination along a property line, shall be less than the value 3 three feet + (D/3), where D is the distance in feet to the nearest property line but in no case shall exceed 16 feet. The formula used herein for determining height of the luminaries does not preclude any luminaries or lighting system from meeting the foot candle foot-candle performance standards set forth in Table 2. Section 165.07(5)(A)(2).
3. (3) Control of Glare: Glare. Any luminaries designed with no cutoff or a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees shall be designed such that the lamp utilized is no more than 100 watts or rated for more than 10,000 lumens, whichever is less. The standards for maximum foot-candles internal and at the property line, set forth in Table 2, Section 165.07(5)(A)(2), are still applicable. For the foot-candles - vertical measurement, the measurements shall be taken not less than three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground line in a vertical position and vertical readings at heights greater than three and one-half (3.5) feet may be required pursuant to the direction of the Zoning Administrator. The standards for vertical foot-candles, set forth in Table 2 Section 165.07(5)(A)(2) are applicable along the entire vertical plane along a property line.
E. Standards for Luminaries under a Canopy (for non-residential uses)
uses). Luminaries mounted to the underside of a canopy, which provide overhead illumination, shall be recessed such that no part of the luminary or the lamp shall extend below the exterior edge of the canopy.
8.0.7 EXCEPTIONS 6. Exceptions.
A. Public Roadway Lighting: Lighting. Luminaries used for public roadway illumination by a public transportation agency are exempt from the requirements of this Section section but may be subject to the regulations of Federal federal or State agencies or by other intergovernmental agreements.
B. Emergency Lighting all Lighting. All temporary emergency lighting needed by the Johnson County Sheriff, the Tiffin Volunteer Fire Department or other emergency services, as well as all vehicular luminaries, shall be exempt from the requirements of this Section. section.
C. Recreational Facilities Facilities. Because of their unique requirements for nighttime visibility and their limited hours of operation, outdoor recreational facilities (public or private) such as, but not limited to, football fields, soccer fields, baseball fields, softball fields, tennis courts, golf driving ranges, show areas areas, and other similar uses as may be determined by the office of the Planning and Zoning Commission are exempted from certain illumination and other standards as follows:
1. (1) The uses set forth herein are specifically exempted from the maximum foot-candle requirements - internal to the site as outlined and established in Table 2. Section 165.07(5)(A)(2). These uses are required to submit a lighting plan and shall be processed as special uses under the procedures in Section 11.07. 165.27(7). These uses shall meet the requirements for maximum foot-candles at the property line.
2. The uses set forth herein shall be exempt from the height requirements as set forth in this Section. section. The Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council shall review the proposed pole heights during the special use permit review process.
D. Temporary Uses Uses. Certain temporary uses may be unable to meet the requirements of this section and the standards set forth in Tables 1 and
2.
Section 165.07(5)(A)(1)(2). These temporary uses may be permitted subject to the approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission. The applicant for a temporary use may be required to submit the documentation required under Section 8.04 165.07(3) herein as a part of the application for a Temporary Use Permit. temporary use permit.
8.08: PROHIBITED LIGHTS 7. Prohibited Lights.
A. Flickering or Flashing Lights: Lights. The City of Tiffin City Council shall permit no flickering or flashing lights unless authorized in a lighting plan approved as a special use or planned unit development.
B. Searchlight and Laser Source Lights: Lights. No searchlights, laser source lights, or any similar high intensity light shall be permitted.
C. Mercury Vapor Lamps Lamps. No lamps utilizing mercury vapor shall be permitted.
8.09: NON-CONFORMING USES 8. Non-Conforming Uses.
A. Luminaries lawfully in place prior to the date of this Section section but that do not conform to the requirements and standards of this Section section shall be considered legal non-conforming uses.
B. Legal non-conforming luminaries that meet the performance standards for foot-candle levels and screening requirements of this Section section but may exceed the physical standards such as height or setbacks herein may continue and are not subject to ameliorization requirements:
1. (1) Legal non-conforming illumination systems that were not part of a specific approved lighting plan shall be brought into conformity with the criteria and standards set forth herein when the illumination system is to be replaced or modified to greater than 50 percent of its replacement value, based on the total project implementation cost. The elements for calculating the value of the illumination system are set forth below.
2. (2) The value of the illumination system shall include the total value of the physical improvements such as luminaries, lamps, poles, wiring, and other elements and must include the value of the site area improvements where the luminaries and supporting elements are located such as parking lots, loading areas, aisles, driveways, driveways sidewalks, landscaped areas areas, and others. Total replacement cost shall include the design costs for the illumination system, material costs for the system elements, and the total construction cost to install the system.
3. (3) Legal non-conforming luminaries that exceed the foot candle foot-candle standards set forth in Table 2 and/or Section 165.07(5)(A)(2) and direct light or glare towards streets, parking lots, residences residences, or property lines and result in a problematic or dangerous condition shall be either shielded, redirected or otherwise modified to meet the requirements of this Section section within 60 days of notification, or apply for an extension of the time period for compliance or apply for a variation with a specific time period for amortization.
8.10: SPECIAL USES AND VARIANCES 9. Special Uses and Variances.
A. Special Use Permits Permits. To receive a special use permit, a proposed lighting plan must shall meet the requirements of Section 8.04. 165.07(3).
B. Variations. A lighting proposal requiring a variation shall also be required to secure a special use permit .
TABLE 1 Lighting in Residential Districts Lighting in Non-Residential Districts Single Multiple Non-External - Abutting a Residential Zoning Family Family Residential District or Street R.O.W. Internal Uses (Institutional, Use Use etc.) Setback Setback Setback Setback Street Right-Street Right-Street Right-of-Way of-Way of-Way Less than Less than Less than 200 Width Width Width 40 Feet 100 Feet 200 Feet Feet + 80 80 80 Lamp <80 feet <80 feet <80 feet Wattage feet + feet + feet + 0-250 (1) P P P P P P P P P P 251-400 NP SU NP SU NP P SU P P P 401+ NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP SU SU
(1) A luminary without a cutoff shall not exceed 100 watts P = Permitted SU = Special Use NP = Not Permitted
TABLE 2 MAXIMUM FOOT CANDLES AT A PROPERTY LINE - HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL MEASUREMENT Residential to Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours hours Hours Hours
0.25 0.5 2 5 3 10 0.25 0.5 0.5 0.5
MAXIMUM FOOT CANDLES - INTERNAL - HORIZONTAL MEASUREMENT Residential Districts Non Residential Districts Horizontal Operating Hours Security Hours Special Special Permitted Special Use Variation Permitted Use Variation Permitted Use Variation
<10 10 - <15 15+ <15 15-50 50+ 3 +3 - 6 6+
Foot-candle - Horizontal Measurement: The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the horizontal position. Foot-candle - Vertical Measurement: The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the vertical position.
Operating Hours: The period of time from one hour prior to opening to one hour after closing of a non-residential establishment
Security Hours: The period of time from one hour after closing to one hour prior to opening of a non-residential establishment
Figure D: Luminaires With No Cutoff or a Cutoff Angle Greater than 75 Degrees
• Height* = 3 feet + D/3 (D is the distance in feet of the luminaire from the property line.)
• Maximum Height* = 16 feet
• Maximum Watts or Lumens = 100 watts or 10,000 lumens, whichever is less (provided the luminaries meet the performance standards)
*The performance standards set forth in Table 2 cannot be exceeded.
![Diagram showing luminaires with no cutoff or a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees, with height, maximum height, and footcandle standards indicated.](page_349_682_857_312.png)
*Measured 3.5' above ground. PROVISIONS & REGULATIONS
A. Tables 1 and 2
The standards and requirements set forth in Tables 1 and 2 regulate and govern the use of, design of, construction or modification of any lighting system for the purpose of illuminating exterior areas including, but not limited to, signs, parking areas, buildings, landscaping, porches, and driveways.
Table 1 sets forth whether the proposed wattage of a luminaries is permitted, not permitted or a special use. In residential zoning districts, whether a specified wattage is permitted or not permitted is based on the width of the street right-of-way abutting the proposed luminaries. In non-residential zoning districts, the permitted wattage of proposed exterior lighting is based on whether the lighting is internal or external on the parcel, and if external (abutting a residential zoning district or street right-of-way) the setback of the proposed lighting from the property line/street right-of-way.
Uses permitted by right may be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission pending a review of the documents submitted that meet the requirements of this Section. Uses or lighting plans that require a special use permit shall meet the requirements for special uses that provide for a public hearing held by the Planning Commission and approval by the City of Tiffin.
Table 2 sets forth the maximum allowable foot-candles to be measured both at a property line and internal to a non-residential property. The standards consider the nature of the land uses, the nature of the abutting land uses, and whether for a non-residential use the time is during hours of operation or security hours. Maximum foot-candles allowable are set for lighting internal to the property in question.
Refer to Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS) Design Standards Manual, Section 11, for lighting minimums.
permit.

Word-level comparison of the current texts with the draft's; spacing and paragraph breaks come from the documents' text. Footnotes are left out.

Current code

Zoning § 8.01 Intent

Exterior lighting is used to illuminate residential, commercial, industrial, PAD and public uses; parking lots, sidewalks, signs, and other elements within the City of Tiffin. When well designed and properly installed, exterior lighting can be and is very useful in improving visibility and safety, providing a sense of security, and complementing the character of the City of Tiffin. If exterior lighting is not well designed and properly installed it can be inefficient, cause glare, and create light trespass and sky glow. Light trespass falling over property lines can illuminate adjacent grounds or buildings in an objectionable manner. In order to insure that exterior lighting is well designed, and impacts on adjacent properties are limited, the following requirements are set forth controlling exterior lighting in both residential and non-residential zoning districts.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § 8.03 Regulations

All public and private exterior lighting must be in conformance with the requirements as specifically established by this Section 8 and in general, exterior lighting is shaded or inwardly directed so that no direct lighting is cast upon adjacent zoning lots and adequate exterior lighting, for security purposes, is required for parking areas.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § 8.04 Procedure

A. Lighting Plan Required

A lighting plan is required for all non-residential uses in residential family zoning districts, multiple family developments other than duplexes, commercial, industrial, institutional, and public uses including uses developed by other units of local government. At the time any exterior lighting is installed or substantially modified, a lighting plan must be submitted to the Planning and Zoning Commission in order to determine whether the requirements of this Section have been met. A lighting plan is required for all special uses and planned area developments. Where a lighting plan is required, the plan must include the following:

1. A site plan showing pole locations, building mounted lights, bollard lights with schematic wiring layout and power source connection;

2. Specifications for luminaries and lamp types, poles, wiring, conduit and appurtenant construction including photographs or drawings of proposed luminaries;

3. Pole, luminaries, and foundation details including pole height, height of building mounted lights, mounting height and height of the luminaries;

4. Elevations of the site including buildings, luminaries and other structures sufficient to determine the total cutoff angle of all luminaries and their relationship to abutting parcels;

5. Lamp wattage of all luminaries proposed;

6. Photometric plans that show the foot candle - horizontal measurement internal to the site and at the property lines and the foot candle - vertical measurement at the property lines only. (Foot candle - horizontal measurements is taken along a horizontal plane at a height of three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground. Foot-candle - vertical measurement is taken at a minimum height of three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground but must also be required at any height along a vertical plane at a property boundary pursuant to the direction of the Zoning Administrator.) Photometric plans must be based on a light loss factor of 1.0.

7. Other information and data reasonably necessary to evaluate the required lighting plan pursuant to the request of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § 8.05 Measuring Light Levels

A. Metering Equipment

Light levels of both direct and indirect light must be measured in foot-candles with a direct reading, portable light meter. Readings must be taken only after the cell has been exposed long enough to provide a constant reading.

B. Method of Measurement

Foot-candle - horizontal measurements must be taken along a horizontal plane at a height of three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground. Foot-candle vertical measurement must be taken at a minimum height of 3.5 feet above the ground, but it may also be taken at any height along a vertical plane along a property boundary line if required by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § 8.06 Standards And Requirements

A. Tables 1 and 2

The standards and requirements set forth in Tables 1 and 2 regulate and govern the use of, design of, construction or modification of any lighting system for the purpose of illuminating exterior areas including, but not limited to, signs, parking areas, buildings, landscaping, porches, and driveways.

Table 1 sets forth whether the proposed wattage of a luminaries is permitted, not permitted or a special use. In residential zoning districts, whether a specified wattage is permitted or not permitted is based on the width of the street right-of-way abutting the proposed luminaries. In non-residential zoning districts, the permitted wattage of proposed exterior lighting is based on whether the lighting is internal or external on the parcel, and if external (abutting a residential zoning district or street right-of-way) the setback of the proposed lighting from the property line/street right-of-way.

Uses permitted by right may be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission pending a review of the documents submitted that meet the requirements of this Section. Uses or lighting plans that require a special use permit shall meet the requirements for special uses that provide for a public hearing held by the Planning Commission and approval by the City of Tiffin.

Table 2 sets forth the maximum allowable foot-candles to be measured both at a property line and internal to a non-residential property. The standards consider the nature of the land uses, the nature of the abutting land uses, and whether for a non-residential use the time is during hours of operation or security hours. Maximum foot-candles allowable are set for lighting internal to the property in question.

B. Total Height and Height of Luminaries (See definition for Height of Luminaries and Total Height and Figure B). The difference between total height and the height of the luminaries shall not exceed 4 feet.

C. Standards for Luminaries with Cutoffs (See Definitions and Figure C attached)

1. Cutoff Angle. To be considered a cutoff luminary, the cutoff angle must be 75 Degrees or less.

2. Height: The maximum height of cutoff luminaries, either freestanding or attached to a building or other structure, is twenty-five (25) feet as a permitted use. A luminary greater than twenty-five (25) feet shall require special use permit approval.

3. Control of Glare: A cutoff luminary shall be designed to shield the light source completely from observer three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground at any point along an abutting property line.

D. Standards for Luminaries with No Cutoffs (See Definitions and Figure D attached)

1. Cutoff Angle: A luminary shall be considered to have no cutoff if it is unshielded or has a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees.

2. Height The maximum permitted height of a luminary with no cutoff or with a cutoff greater than 75 degrees, that provides illumination along a property line, shall be less than the value 3 feet + (D/3), where D is the distance in feet to the nearest property line but in no case shall exceed 16 feet. The formula used herein for determining height of the luminaries does not preclude any luminaries or lighting system from meeting the foot candle performance standards set forth in Table 2.

3. Control of Glare: Any luminaries designed with no cutoff or a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees shall be designed such that the lamp utilized is no more than 100 watts or rated for more than 10,000 lumens, whichever is less. The standards for maximum foot-candles internal and at the property line, set forth in Table 2, are still applicable. For the foot-candles - vertical measurement, the measurements shall be taken not less than three and one-half (3.5) feet above the ground line in a vertical position and vertical readings at heights greater than three and one-half (3.5) feet may be required pursuant to the direction of the Zoning Administrator. The standards for vertical foot-candles, set forth in Table 2 are applicable along the entire vertical plane along a property line.

E. Standards for Luminaries under a Canopy (for non-residential uses)

Luminaries mounted to the underside of a canopy, which provide overhead illumination, shall be recessed such that no part of the luminary or the lamp shall extend below the exterior edge of the canopy.

8.0.7 EXCEPTIONS

A. Public Roadway Lighting: Luminaries used for public roadway illumination by a public transportation agency are exempt from the requirements of this Section but may be subject to the regulations of Federal or State agencies or by other intergovernmental agreements.

B. Emergency Lighting all temporary emergency lighting needed by the Johnson County Sheriff, the Tiffin Volunteer Fire Department or other emergency services, as well as all vehicular luminaries, shall be exempt from the requirements of this Section.

C. Recreational Facilities Because of their unique requirements for nighttime visibility and their limited hours of operation, outdoor recreational facilities (public or private) such as, but not limited to, football fields, soccer fields, baseball fields, softball fields, tennis courts, golf driving ranges, show areas and other similar uses as may be determined by the office of the Planning and Zoning Commission are exempted from certain illumination and other standards as follows:

1. The uses set forth herein are specifically exempted from the maximum foot-candle requirements - internal to the site as outlined and established in Table 2. These uses are required to submit a lighting plan and shall be processed as special uses under the procedures in Section 11.07. These uses shall meet the requirements for maximum foot-candles at the property line.

2. The uses set forth herein shall be exempt from the height requirements as set forth in this Section. The Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council shall review the proposed pole heights during the special use permit review process.

D. Temporary Uses Certain temporary uses may be unable to meet the requirements of this section and the standards set forth in Tables 1 and

2. These temporary uses may be permitted subject to the approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission. The applicant for a temporary use may be required to submit the documentation required under Section 8.04 herein as a part of the application for a Temporary Use Permit.

8.08: PROHIBITED LIGHTS

A. Flickering or Flashing Lights: The City of Tiffin City Council shall permit no flickering or flashing lights unless authorized in a lighting plan approved as a special use or planned unit development.

B. Searchlight and Laser Source Lights: No searchlights, laser source lights, or any similar high intensity light shall be permitted.

C. Mercury Vapor Lamps No lamps utilizing mercury vapor shall be permitted.

8.09: NON-CONFORMING USES

A. Luminaries lawfully in place prior to the date of this Section but that do not conform to the requirements and standards of this Section shall be considered legal non-conforming uses.

B. Legal non-conforming luminaries that meet the performance standards for foot-candle levels and screening requirements of this Section but may exceed the physical standards such as height or setbacks herein may continue and are not subject to ameliorization requirements:

1. Legal non-conforming illumination systems that were not part of a specific approved lighting plan shall be brought into conformity with the criteria and standards set forth herein when the illumination system is to be replaced or modified to greater than 50 percent of its replacement value, based on the total project implementation cost. The elements for calculating the value of the illumination system are set forth below.

2. The value of the illumination system shall include the total value of the physical improvements such as luminaries, lamps, poles, wiring, and other elements and must include the value of the site area improvements where the luminaries and supporting elements are located such as parking lots, loading areas, aisles, driveways, sidewalks, landscaped areas and others. Total replacement cost shall include the design costs for the illumination system, material costs for the system elements, and the total construction cost to install the system.

3. Legal non-conforming luminaries that exceed the foot candle standards set forth in Table 2 and/or direct light or glare towards streets, parking lots, residences or property lines and result in a problematic or dangerous condition shall be either shielded, redirected or otherwise modified to meet the requirements of this Section within 60 days of notification, or apply for an extension of the time period for compliance or apply for a variation with a specific time period for amortization.

8.10: SPECIAL USES AND VARIANCES

A. Special Use Permits To receive a special use permit, a proposed lighting plan must meet the requirements of Section 8.04.

B. Variations. A lighting proposal requiring a variation shall also be required to secure a special use permit .

TABLE 1 Lighting in Residential Districts Lighting in Non-Residential Districts Single Multiple Non-External - Abutting a Residential Zoning Family Family Residential District or Street R.O.W. Internal Uses (Institutional, Use Use etc.) Setback Setback Setback Setback Street Right-Street Right-Street Right-of-Way of-Way of-Way Less than Less than Less than 200 Width Width Width 40 Feet 100 Feet 200 Feet Feet + 80 80 80 Lamp <80 feet <80 feet <80 feet Wattage feet + feet + feet + 0-250 (1) P P P P P P P P P P 251-400 NP SU NP SU NP P SU P P P 401+ NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP SU SU

(1) A luminary without a cutoff shall not exceed 100 watts P = Permitted SU = Special Use NP = Not Permitted

TABLE 2 MAXIMUM FOOT CANDLES AT A PROPERTY LINE - HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL MEASUREMENT Residential to Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours hours Hours Hours

0.25 0.5 2 5 3 10 0.25 0.5 0.5 0.5

MAXIMUM FOOT CANDLES - INTERNAL - HORIZONTAL MEASUREMENT Residential Districts Non Residential Districts Horizontal Operating Hours Security Hours Special Special Permitted Special Use Variation Permitted Use Variation Permitted Use Variation

<10 10 - <15 15+ <15 15-50 50+ 3 +3 - 6 6+

Foot-candle - Horizontal Measurement: The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the horizontal position. Foot-candle - Vertical Measurement: The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the vertical position.

Operating Hours: The period of time from one hour prior to opening to one hour after closing of a non-residential establishment

Security Hours: The period of time from one hour after closing to one hour prior to opening of a non-residential establishment

Figure D: Luminaires With No Cutoff or a Cutoff Angle Greater than 75 Degrees

• Height* = 3 feet + D/3 (D is the distance in feet of the luminaire from the property line.)

• Maximum Height* = 16 feet

• Maximum Watts or Lumens = 100 watts or 10,000 lumens, whichever is less (provided the luminaries meet the performance standards)

*The performance standards set forth in Table 2 cannot be exceeded.

![Diagram showing luminaires with no cutoff or a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees, with height, maximum height, and footcandle standards indicated.](page_349_682_857_312.png)

*Measured 3.5' above ground. PROVISIONS & REGULATIONS

A. Tables 1 and 2

The standards and requirements set forth in Tables 1 and 2 regulate and govern the use of, design of, construction or modification of any lighting system for the purpose of illuminating exterior areas including, but not limited to, signs, parking areas, buildings, landscaping, porches, and driveways.

Table 1 sets forth whether the proposed wattage of a luminaries is permitted, not permitted or a special use. In residential zoning districts, whether a specified wattage is permitted or not permitted is based on the width of the street right-of-way abutting the proposed luminaries. In non-residential zoning districts, the permitted wattage of proposed exterior lighting is based on whether the lighting is internal or external on the parcel, and if external (abutting a residential zoning district or street right-of-way) the setback of the proposed lighting from the property line/street right-of-way.

Uses permitted by right may be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission pending a review of the documents submitted that meet the requirements of this Section. Uses or lighting plans that require a special use permit shall meet the requirements for special uses that provide for a public hearing held by the Planning Commission and approval by the City of Tiffin.

Table 2 sets forth the maximum allowable foot-candles to be measured both at a property line and internal to a non-residential property. The standards consider the nature of the land uses, the nature of the abutting land uses, and whether for a non-residential use the time is during hours of operation or security hours. Maximum foot-candles allowable are set for lighting internal to the property in question.

Refer to Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS) Design Standards Manual, Section 11, for lighting minimums.

Ord. 2013-343 · source page

2026 draft

§ 165.07 Exterior Lighting

1. Exterior lighting is used to illuminate residential, commercial, industrial, PAD, and public uses including, but not limited to, parking lots, sidewalks, signs, and other elements within the City. When well designed and properly installed, exterior lighting can be and is very useful in improving visibility and safety, providing a sense of security, and complementing the character of the City. If exterior lighting is not well designed and properly installed it can be inefficient, cause glare, and create light trespass and sky glow. Light trespass falling over property lines can illuminate adjacent grounds or buildings in an objectionable manner. In order to insure that exterior lighting is well designed, and impacts on adjacent properties are limited, the following requirements are set forth controlling exterior lighting in both residential and non-residential zoning districts.

2. Regulations. All public and private exterior lighting must be in conformance with the requirements as specifically established by this Zoning Code and in general, exterior lighting is shaded or inwardly directed so that no direct lighting is cast upon adjacent zoning lots and adequate exterior lighting, for security purposes, is required for parking areas.

3. Procedure.

A. Lighting Plan Required. A lighting plan is required for all non-residential uses in residential zoning districts, multiple family developments other than duplexes, commercial, industrial, institutional, and public uses including uses developed by other units of local government. At the time any exterior lighting is installed or substantially modified, a lighting plan must be submitted to the Planning and Zoning Commission in order to determine whether the requirements of this section have been met. A lighting plan is required for all special uses and planned area developments. Where a lighting plan is required, the plan shall include the following:

(1) A site plan showing pole locations, building mounted lights, bollard lights with schematic wiring layout and power source connection;

(2) Specifications for luminaries and lamp types, poles, wiring, conduit, and appurtenant construction including photographs or drawings of proposed luminaries;

(3) Pole, luminaries, and foundation details including pole height, height of building mounted lights, mounting height, and height of the luminaries;

(4) Elevations of the site including buildings, luminaries, and other structures sufficient to determine the total cutoff angle of all luminaries and their relationship to abutting parcels;

(5) Lamp wattage of all luminaries proposed;

(6) Photometric plans that show the foot candle (horizontal measurement internal to the site and at the property lines and the foot candle) vertical measurement at the property lines only. (Foot candle

- horizontal measurements are taken along a horizontal plane at a height of three and one-half feet above the ground. Foot-candle - vertical measurement is taken at a minimum height of three and one-half feet above the ground but shall also be required at any height along a vertical plane at a property boundary pursuant to the direction of the Zoning Administrator.) Photometric plans shall be based on a light loss factor of 1.0.

(7) Other information and data reasonably necessary to evaluate the required lighting plan pursuant to the request of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

4. Measuring Light Levels.

A. Metering Equipment. Light levels of both direct and indirect light shall be measured in foot-candles with a direct reading, portable light meter. Readings shall be taken only after the cell has been exposed long enough to provide a constant reading.

B. Method of Measurement. Foot-candle horizontal measurements shall be taken along a horizontal plane at a height of three and one-half feet above the ground. Foot-candle vertical measurement shall be taken at a minimum height of three and one half feet above the ground, but it may also be taken at any height along a vertical plane along a property boundary line if required by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

5. Standards and Requirements.

A. Tables 1 and 2. The standards and requirements set forth in the following tables regulate and govern the use, design, construction, or modification of any lighting system for the purpose of illuminating exterior areas including, but not limited to, signs, parking areas, building, landscaping, porches, and driveways.

(1) Table 1 sets forth whether the proposed wattage of luminaries is permitted, or a special use. In residential zoning districts, whether a specified wattage is permitted or not permitted is based on the width of the street right-of-way abutting the proposed luminaries. In non-residential zoning districts, the permitted wattage of proposed exterior lighting is based on whether the lighting is internal or external on the parcel, and if external (abutting a residential zoning district or street right-of-way) the setback of the proposed lighting from the property line or street right-of-way. Uses permitted by right may be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission pending a review of the documents submitted that meet the requirements of this section. Uses or lighting plans that require a special use permit shall meet the requirements for special uses that provide for a public hearing held by the Planning and Zoning Commission and approval by the Council.

Table 1 Lighting in Residential Districts Lighting in Non-Residential Districts Multiple Non-External - Abutting a Residential Single Interna Family Residential Zoning District or Street Family l R.O.W. Uses Use Use (Institutional Setback Setback Setback Setback etc.)

Street Street Right-Less Less Less Right-Street Right-of-than than than 200 of-of-Way Way 40 100 200 Feet + Way Width Width Feet Feet Feet Width 80 80 80 Lamp <80 <80 <80 feet feet feet Wattage feet feet feet + + + 0-250 (1) P P P P P P P P P P 251-400 NP SU NP SU NP P SU P P P 401+ NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP SU SU

(1) A luminary without a cutoff shall not exceed 100 watts P = Permitted SU = Special Use NP = Not Permitted

(2) Table 2 sets froth the maximum allowable foot-candles to be measured both at a property line and internal to a non-residential property. The standards consider the nature of the land uses, the nature of the abutting land uses, and whether for a non-residential use the time is during hours of operation or security hours. Maximum foot-candles allowable are set for lighting internal to the property in question. Refer to Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS) Design Standards Manual, Section 11, for lighting minimums. Table 2 Maximum Foot Candles At A Property Line - Horizontal and Vertical Measurement Residential to Non-Residential to Non-Residential Non-Residential to Non-Residential Residential Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Security Operating Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours

0.25 0.5 2 5 3 10 0.25 0.5 0.5 0.5 Maximum Foot Candles - Internal - Horizontal Measurement Residential Districts Non-Residential Districts Horizontal Operating hours Security Hours Permitted Special Use Variation Permitted Special Use Variation Permitted Special Use Variation <10 10 - <15 15+ <15 15-50 50+ 3 +3 - 6 6+ Foot-candle - Horizontal Measurement. The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the horizontal position. Foot-candle - Vertical Measurement. The measurement of foot-candles utilizing a direct reading, portable light meter mounted in the vertical position. Operating Hours. The period of time from one hour prior to opening to one hour after closing of a non-residential establishment. Security Hours. The period of time from one hour after closing to one hour prior to opening of a non-residential establishment.

B. The difference between total height and the height of the luminaries shall not exceed four feet.

C. Standards for Luminaries with Cutoffs.

(1) Cutoff Angle. To be considered a cutoff luminary, the cutoff angle must be 75 degrees or less.

(2) Height. The maximum height of cutoff luminaries, either freestanding or attached to a building or other structure, is 25 feet as a permitted use. A luminary greater than 25 feet shall require special use permit approval.

(3) Control of Glare. A cutoff luminary shall be designed to shield the light source completely from observer three and one-half feet above the ground at any point along an abutting property line.

D. Standards for Luminaries with No Cutoffs.

(1) Cutoff Angle. A luminary shall be considered to have no cutoff if it is unshielded or has a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees.

(2) Height. The maximum permitted height of a luminary with no cutoff or with a cutoff greater than 75 degrees, that provides illumination along a property line, shall be less than the value three feet + (D/3), where D is the distance in feet to the nearest property line but in no case shall exceed 16 feet. The formula used herein for determining height of the luminaries does not preclude any luminaries or lighting system from meeting the foot-candle performance standards set forth in Section 165.07(5)(A)(2).

(3) Control of Glare. Any luminaries designed with no cutoff or a cutoff angle greater than 75 degrees shall be designed such that the lamp utilized is no more than 100 watts or rated for more than 10,000 lumens, whichever is less. The standards for maximum foot-candles internal and at the property line, set forth in Section 165.07(5)(A)(2), are still applicable. For the foot-candles - vertical measurement, the measurements shall be taken not less than three and one-half feet above the ground line in a vertical position and vertical readings at heights greater than three and one-half feet may be required pursuant to the direction of the Zoning Administrator. The standards for vertical foot-candles, set forth in Section 165.07(5)(A)(2) are applicable along the entire vertical plane along a property line.

E. Standards for Luminaries under a Canopy (for non-residential uses). Luminaries mounted to the underside of a canopy, which provide overhead illumination, shall be recessed such that no part of the luminary or the lamp shall extend below the exterior edge of the canopy.

6. Exceptions.

A. Public Roadway Lighting. Luminaries used for public roadway illumination by a public transportation agency are exempt from the requirements of this section but may be subject to the regulations of federal or State agencies or by other intergovernmental agreements.

B. Emergency Lighting. All temporary emergency lighting needed by the Sheriff, the Fire Department or other emergency services, as well as all vehicular luminaries, shall be exempt from the requirements of this section.

C. Recreational Facilities. Because of their unique requirements for nighttime visibility and their limited hours of operation, outdoor recreational facilities (public or private) such as, but not limited to, football fields, soccer fields, baseball fields, softball fields, tennis courts, golf driving ranges, show areas, and other similar uses as may be determined by the office of the Planning and Zoning Commission are exempted from certain illumination and other standards as follows:

(1) The uses set forth herein are specifically exempted from the maximum foot-candle requirements - internal to the site as outlined and established in Section 165.07(5)(A)(2). These uses are required to submit a lighting plan and shall be processed as special uses under the procedures in Section 165.27(7). These uses shall meet the requirements for maximum foot-candles at the property line.

2. The uses set forth herein shall be exempt from the height requirements as set forth in this section. The Planning and Zoning Commission and Council shall review the proposed pole heights during the special use permit review process.

D. Temporary Uses. Certain temporary uses may be unable to meet the requirements of this section and the standards set forth in Section 165.07(5)(A)(1)(2). These temporary uses may be permitted subject to the approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission. The applicant for a temporary use may be required to submit the documentation required under Section 165.07(3) herein as a part of the application for a temporary use permit.

7. Prohibited Lights.

A. Flickering or Flashing Lights. The Council shall permit no flickering or flashing lights unless authorized in a lighting plan approved as a special use or planned unit development.

B. Searchlight and Laser Source Lights. No searchlights, laser source lights, or any similar high intensity light shall be permitted.

C. Mercury Vapor Lamps. No lamps utilizing mercury vapor shall be permitted.

8. Non-Conforming Uses.

A. Luminaries lawfully in place prior to the date of this section but that do not conform to the requirements and standards of this section shall be considered legal non-conforming uses.

B. Legal non-conforming luminaries that meet the performance standards for foot-candle levels and screening requirements of this section but may exceed the physical standards such as height or setbacks herein may continue and are not subject to ameliorization requirements:

(1) Legal non-conforming illumination systems that were not part of a specific approved lighting plan shall be brought into conformity with the criteria and standards set forth herein when the illumination system is to be replaced or modified to greater than 50 percent of its replacement value, based on the total project implementation cost. The elements for calculating the value of the illumination system are set forth below.

(2) The value of the illumination system shall include the total value of the physical improvements such as luminaries, lamps, poles, wiring, and other elements and must include the value of the site area improvements where the luminaries and supporting elements are located such as parking lots, loading areas, aisles, driveways sidewalks, landscaped areas, and others. Total replacement cost shall include the design costs for the illumination system, material costs for the system elements, and the total construction cost to install the system.

(3) Legal non-conforming luminaries that exceed the foot-candle standards set forth in Section 165.07(5)(A)(2) and direct light or glare towards streets, parking lots, residences, or property lines and result in a problematic or dangerous condition shall be either shielded, redirected or otherwise modified to meet the requirements of this section within 60 days of notification, or apply for an extension of the time period for compliance or apply for a variation with a specific time period for amortization.

9. Special Uses and Variances.

A. Special Use Permits. To receive a special use permit, a proposed lighting plan shall meet the requirements of Section 165.07(3).

B. Variations. A lighting proposal requiring a variation shall also be required to secure a special use permit.

August 2026 draft · page 436

Back to draft chapter 165 · All changes

Data last updated October 22, 2026. Built from the archive's documents; see how the data is built.