New rules in Campton Hills aim to preserve dark skies

CAMPTON HILLS New rules are in place to help preserve Campton Hills' dark skies.

The Village Board in May approved the responsible outdoor lighting ordinance for new construction. It was written with the goal of preserving and enhancing the ability to view the night sky and to promote sound environmental policies consistent with the spirit of the comprehensive plan, according to a village news release.

The release states that the ordinance applies to new construction of all commercial fixtures and residential street, pedestrian, sign, flood and parking lot light fixtures.

It does not apply to fixtures on homes, according to the village.

"New construction" is defined as construction of entirely new structures, including new poles; enlargement of any existing structure by at least 50 percent; and, the release states, the addition of new lighting fixtures.

It does not apply to the replacement of light fixtures that existed before July 1, 2014, according to the release. The release indicates that light fixtures affected by the ordinance must meet several criteria designed to reduce uplighting, bright white lighting and glare.

The dark skies ordinance stemmed from a 2009 referendum question. Village Trustee Sue George, Christine Brauer of the Plan Commission, and Illinois Coalition for Responsible Outdoor Lighting cofounders Drew Carhart and Debra Luginbuhl were among those who helped staff and engineering consultants with the ordinance.

Visit http://www.villageofcamptonhills.org to read the ordinance or call 630-584-5700 for information.

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New rules in Campton Hills aim to preserve dark skies