Receipt of all state, federal and local permits. Commissioner Lawrence seconded and the motion was passed with Chairperson Odermat abstaining. Mr. Burke reported that over this last year, there has been several instances where bright lights have either been mounted up in taller trees or have been used to shine upwards and illuminate larger trees. This has resulted in complaints that this manner of lighting and associated glare is interfering with neighboring properties. Mr. Burke went on to state that Medina's code is silent on the subject of landscape lighting in general and the illumination of trees specifically.
Outdoor lighting is addressed in three instances relative to other types of use.
Lighting is allowed on piers but they must be foot lights and of a wattage and orientation such that there is no glare onto adjacent properties or out into the lake. There is no lighting allowed on sports courts, with the intent of ensuring no glare or visual intrusion onto adjacent properties. Lastly, overhead lighting for swimming pools and spas is prohibited, again, to eliminate any glare onto adjacent properties. Planning Consultant Burke finished his report with the recommendation that locating floodlights or other such strong lighting up in trees, or lights that shine upwards to illuminate trees, should be prohibited. He also recommended that this restriction be placed in Chapter 17.40 of the Medina Municipal Code relating to Lot Development Standards.