(A) Whenever an external artificial light source is used to illuminate a sign, such source shall be fully shielded. A receptacle or device housing a permitted light source shall be top mounted and directed below the horizontal, except for ground-mounted signs no higher than six feet which may be illuminated with ground-mounted or bottom-mounted lighting fixtures.
(B) The average level of illumination on the vertical surface of an externally illuminated sign shall not exceed three foot-candles, unless permitted ground-mounted or bottom-mounted lighting fixtures are used in which case the average level of illumination on the vertical surface of the sign shall not exceed two foot-candles. No exposed bulb or lamp shall be used on the exterior surface of any sign so as to expose the face of the bulb, light or lamp to any public right-of-way or adjacent property.
(C) Internally illuminated signs constructed with an opaque or colored background and lighter contrasting text or symbols are preferred; such construction shall be required for internally illuminated signs within 600 feet of a Residential District; the average level of illumination on the vertical surface shall not exceed three foot-candles.
(Ord. 08-04, passed 7-14-08
; Am. Ord. 14-23, passed 1-26-15)