Outdoor Lighting in Franklin County, OH (2026)
2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Franklin County, Ohio.
Verified from official government sources
Dark Sky Rules
Any exterior light fixture taller than 18 feet in Franklin County's Smart Growth Overlay must be fully shielded, with recessed lamps aimed downward so no glare shows above the horizontal plane.
Franklin County Shielding Rule for Tall Lights
Some RestrictionsFranklin County Zoning Resolution § 670.0810
Shielding for tall lighting- Lights greater than 18 feet shall have fully shielded, recessed lamps directed downward to prevent glare and shine above the horizontal plane. Design cohesiveness- All external outdoor lighting fixtures, which are being used for the same purpose, within a given development shall be from the same or similar manufacturer’s type to insure aesthetic compatibility. C...
Light Trespass & Shielding
Franklin County's Smart Growth Overlay requires exterior lighting to be designed, located and maintained so light and reflected glare do not spill onto neighboring property, capping brightness at a residential line to half a footcandle.
Franklin County Smart Growth Overlay Light Trespass Limit
Some RestrictionsFranklin County Zoning Resolution § 670.0810
Minimize light trespass- Exterior lighting shall be designed located, constructed and maintained to minimize light and reflected light trespass and spill over off the subject property. Height- The height of any source of exterior lighting shall not exceed 28 feet above grade. Shielding for tall lighting- Lights greater than 18 feet shall have fully shielded, recessed lamps directed downward...
Outdoor Lighting by City in Franklin County
1 cities in Franklin County have their own outdoor lighting rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
All Franklin County ordinances
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