Light Industrial
A property classification for buildings used for light manufacturing, assembly, warehousing, and distribution with minimal environmental impact.
Definition
Light industrial is a zoning and property classification covering buildings used for activities that don't produce significant noise, pollution, or heavy truck traffic. This includes light manufacturing, product assembly, packaging, warehousing, distribution, and research and development. Light industrial buildings typically feature 16-24 foot clear heights, some office component, and grade-level or dock-high loading. They're often located in business parks or transitional areas between commercial and heavy industrial zones. Small bay and flex properties fall within the light industrial category, distinguished from heavy industrial uses like steel mills, chemical plants, or bulk distribution centers that require specialized infrastructure and generate more intensive impacts.
Example
A light industrial park contains buildings housing a cabinet manufacturer, an auto parts distributor, a 3D printing company, and several trade contractors. Zoning allows manufacturing but prohibits heavy industry. The park has landscaping requirements and limits on outdoor storage to maintain compatibility with nearby commercial uses.