1149.09 ILLUMINATION.

   No sign shall be illuminated except in accordance with the following restrictions:

   (a)   Illumination shall be so arranged as to reflect light away from residential premises and in such a manner so as not to cast glare.

   (b)   Lighting external to the sign shall consist of not more than two (2) colors, including white. No external red or green lights shall be used, if, in the opinion of the Building Official such colors would create a driving hazard.

   (c)   Exposed gaseous tube-type signs (i.e. exposed neon lettering) shall not exceed ten (10) square feet in area. Signs illuminated by reflected or silhouette type lighting are not subject to this limitation.

   (d)   The provisions of this section shall apply not only to exterior signs, but also to interior signs which are designed or placed to show through windows or doors of buildings.

   (e)   Illuminated signs shall be constructed of non-combustible materials. Approved combustible plastics may be used for sign facings, letters, figures, decorations and trim as determined by the Building Official.

   (f)   Electrical components of illuminated signs shall bear the label of the Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) or a similar approved agency.

   (g)   Electronic Changeable Message (ECM) signs:

      (1)   All ECM signs shall be equipped with automatic dimming technology which automatically adjusts the signs brightness in direct correlation with naturally ambient light conditions at all times.

      (2)   No ECM signs shall be manufactured or installed to create situations of excessive brightness as that term is defined in Section 1149.02.

      (3)   Prior to the issuance of any permit, the owner shall provide the City with a certification from the sign manufacturer stating that the sign is capable of complying with the above brightness provisions. Any post installation testing required will be at the full expense of the sign company and/or the owner(s) of the sign.

      (4)   ECM signs shall be designed and equipped to freeze the device in one position if a malfunction occurs.

      (5)   The images and messages displayed must be static, and the transition from one static display to another must be instantaneous with no special effects or the transition may provide a black screen for at least one second.

      (6)   Each line of copy and graphics in an electronic changeable message sign must be at least six (6) inches in height. ECM sign shall not include animation, full motion video, flashing, scrolling, strobing, racing, blinking, changes in color, fade in or out in any manner imitating movement or any other means not providing constant illumination.

      (7)   Each message shall be illuminated for a minimum of ten (10) seconds before transitioning to a new message.

      (8)   Images and messages displayed must be complete in themselves without continuation in content to the next image or message or to any other sign.
(Ord. 16-05. Passed 2-22-16.)