The McHenry County UDO requires new permanent commercial or industrial lighting to use a fully shielded fixture positioned so the bulb or reflector cannot be seen through a residence window. Fully shielded fixtures emit no light above the horizontal plane.
UDO § 16.60.020 governs exterior lighting. New permanent lighting for commercial or industrial uses must use a fully shielded fixture positioned to prevent a direct view of the bulb or polished reflective surface through a residence window. The UDO defines a "fully shielded" fixture as one shielded so that emitted light rays are not projected above the horizontal plane, reducing glare and skyglow. Non-permanent lighting, such as holiday or decorative displays or lighting tied to a temporary use permit, is allowed without shielding. Sign illumination must also be fully shielded and directed away from roadways and neighbors. Incorporated cities apply their own lighting standards.
Non-compliant lighting is a zoning matter enforced by the Zoning Enforcement Officer; fixtures causing glare must be shielded or corrected.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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