Dunkin' Night Lights Too Bright In Hatboro: Officials

HATBORO, PA —Borough officials are addressing residents' concerns regarding the bright night sign at the newly opened Dunkin' Donuts on South York Road.

Officials said they received three complaints in August over a "perceived lighting issue" at the new Dunkin location at 256 S. York Road.

The initial complaints included concerns related to both lighting and noise.

Borough officials said addressed the noise issue and it was immediately resolved by the business.

After the lighting complaints, borough staff has determined that the intensity of the lights at Dunkin' Donuts needs to be reduced.

Dunkin indicated that the exterior lighting is necessary for safety and security purposes.

However, Borough Ordinance 22-427 regulates exterior lighting within the Borough.

In accordance with the ordinance, the borough has requested that Dunkin conduct and submit a professional lighting study including a light as built plan-based on light measurements taken with a light meter 1 hour past sunset, and per IES guidelines.

Once the lighting study is received, the borough's engineer will review the report and issue findings regarding compliance with the borough's lighting regulations.

Following that review, Dunkin' may be required to modify or reduce its lighting to comply with the ordinance. The borough
remains committed to enforcing its ordinances fairly and consistently.

"We will take any and all appropriate steps necessary to ensure compliance; however, the borough must also provide the property owner and business with a reasonable opportunity to respond to requests and submit the required documentation before further enforcement actions are pursued," Hegele said.

Anyone with questions or concerns can call Borough Manager Diane Hegele at Borough Hall, 215-443-9100, with any questions or concerns.