The intent of this section is to set forth regulations specific to signs in which the copy (lettering) is not permanent but rather can be changed either by use of electronics or by manually changing the text. Below is a description of each method and specific regulations pertaining to them.
(a) Changeable Copy Signs (Manual Devices). For the sole purpose of permitting areas for changeable copy, the size of a permanent freestanding sign, otherwise permitted by these regulations, may be increased in area an additional twenty (20) square feet provided that the maximum height from the ground to the top of the sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet.
(1) For the purpose of these regulations a changeable copy sign is a sign, or any portion thereof, where the message or graphics are not permanently affixed to the structure, framing, or background and may be periodically replaced, or covered over manually. The changeable copy portion of a sign shall comply with all other regulations of this Code including the design standards of Section 1286.15.
(2) When reviewing the proposed sign, the Planning Commission shall consider and establish the standards applicable for the changeable copy which may include, but are not limited to: determining the portion of the sign permitted for changeable copy; determining the suitable material and method for making changes and the manner for fastening the new copy; and establishing the color and design criteria. These standards shall be set forth in the sign permit and shall apply for the life of the sign unless otherwise amended by the Planning Commission pursuant to the administrative procedures of Section 1286.21.
(b) Dynamic Displays (Electronic Message Centers). Dynamic displays are defined in Chapter 1242 of the Code. Specific regulations of these signs are enumerated below.
(1) Dynamic displays are allowed only on monument/free-standing signs in commercial and industrial districts. Dynamic displays located in commercial/industrial districts but that are located within 100 feet of a residential zoning district must adhere to additional requirements set forth in subsection (b)(9) hereof. The required setback for a dynamic display shall comply with Section 1286.07(b) of the Code
(2) Dynamic displays may occupy no more than thirty percent (30%) of the actual copy and graphic area. The remainder of the sign must not have the capability to have dynamic displays even if not used. Only one (1), contiguous dynamic display area is allowed on a sign face and only one (1) sign per property is permitted;
(3) A dynamic display may not change or move more often than once every twenty (20) seconds, except one for which changes are necessary to correct hour-and-minute, date, or temperature information. Time, date, or temperature information is considered one dynamic display and may not be included as a component of any other dynamic display. The time, date, or temperature information itself may change no more often than once every three (3) seconds;
(4) The images and messages displayed must be static, and the transition from one static display to another must be instantaneous without any special effects;
(5) The images and messages displayed must be complete in themselves, without continuation in content to the next image or message or to any other sign;
(6) Every line of copy and graphics in a dynamic display must be at least seven (7) inches in height on a road with a speed limit of twenty-five (25) to thirty-four (34) miles per hour, nine (9) inches on a road with a speed limit of thirty-five (35) to forty-four (44) miles per hour, twelve (12) inches on a road with a speed limit of forty-five (45) to fifty-four (54) miles per hour, and fifteen (15) inches on a road with a speed limit of fifty-five (55) miles per hour or more. If there is insufficient room for copy and graphics of this size in the area allowed under subsection (b)(1) hereof, then no dynamic display is allowed;
(7) Dynamic displays must be designed and equipped to freeze the device in one position if a malfunction occurs. The displays must also be equipped with a means to immediately discontinue the display if it malfunctions, and the sign owner must immediately stop the dynamic display when notified by the Municipality that it is not complying with the standards of this chapter;
(8) Dynamic displays must comply with the following brightness standards:
A. Dynamic displays must be designed to automatically adjust the brightness levels of the sign in response to ambient conditions. This requirement ensures the readability and brightness levels of the sign during the day and night.
B. Lighting levels shall not exceed one foot-candle at the property line of the site utilizing the dynamic display.
C. Mitigative measures shall be employed to limit glare and spill light to protect neighboring parcels and to maintain traffic safety on public roads.
D. No sign may be brighter than is necessary for clear and adequate visibility.
E. No sign may be of such intensity or brilliance as to impair the vision of a motor vehicle driver with average eyesight or to otherwise interfere with the driver's operation of a motor vehicle.
F. No sign may be of such intensity or brilliance that it interferes with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, device or signal.
G. The Municipality may require submission of a light distribution plan if deemed necessary to ensure compliance with the intent of this chapter.
(9) Dynamic displays located within 100 feet of a residentially zoned district shall be located away from said district and the lighting levels from the display can not exceed 0.5 foot-candles at the property line of the site utilizing the dynamic display.
A. The sign shall be designed with sufficient landscaping so as to properly screen it from the residential district.
B. The sign shall be located on the site in the best possible manner to avoid any visual obstruction to the neighboring residential properties.
(c) Review Authority. Both changeable copy signs and dynamic displays are subject to the review and approval of the Planning Commission. Any person not satisfied by the action of the Planning Commission can appeal to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a variance.
(Ord. 8-13. Passed 5-14-13.)