Columbia Same—Residential streets ordinance (§ 27-149)
Chapter 27: Utilities · Article III. Water and Light System
In short: Residential streets get a light at every intersection, plus lights no more than 400 feet apart where intersections are over 400 feet apart. The city pays for standard treated-wood poles, overhead wiring and standard fixtures; ornamental poles or underground wiring may be installed on request under section 27-151.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
(a) Street lights on residential streets shall be placed at each intersection.
(b) Where intersections on residential streets are in excess of four hundred (400) feet apart, additional lights shall be placed along the street at intervals not exceeding four hundred (400) feet. These lights shall be comparable in appearance and light output to the lights used at the intersections of residential streets.
(c) Where residential streets intersect with streets of a higher classification, the lighting at such intersections shall be that required by such higher classification.
(d) On residential streets, the city shall provide, at no cost to others, all poles, wire, fixtures, lamps and other accessories required for street lighting as herein prescribed; provided, however, all poles be treated wood poles and all wiring shall be overhead and all light fixtures shall be of the type normally used and considered standard for such use.
(e) On residential streets, ornamental street lighting consisting of metal, concrete or other type ornamental poles and/or underground wiring may be installed if requested and as provided under section 27-151 of this chapter.
Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 27-149
Text from Supplement 139 (September 3, 2026).
Last checked November 1, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.