1. Application. Electronic Message Display shall refer to any sign utilizing light to display a message and that is changed by an electronic process. Electronic Message Displays are only allowed as part of a monument sign. The size of the Electronic Message Display shall count towards the allowed square footage of the sign.
2. Standards. The following standards shall apply to all Electronic Message Displays:
A. Electronic Message Displays along State routes shall comply with all Iowa Department of Transportation standards. If an Iowa Department of Transportation standard conflicts with a City standard, then the more strict standard shall apply.
B. Electronic Message Displays shall only include only text, logos, and other special characters,
C. Electronic Message Displays shall be prohibited from displaying video, multiple pictures or graphics that give the illusion of motion or a video, and moving graphics, this includes travelling or scrolling text messages.
D. Electronic Message Displays shall only use LED (Light Emitting Diode) displays.
E. Electronic Message Displays are prohibited from using television displays, plasma screens, LED screens, and holographic displays to messages.
F. Each message shall remain in a fixed position for a minimum of 8 seconds.
G. Each change of message is accomplished in one second or less.
H. Lighting must be shielded to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed at any portion of the main travel way of the adjacent roads. The display cannot cause glare or impair the vision of any driver or interfere with the operation of the driver’s vehicle. In no event may an Electronic Message Display exceed a maximum illumination of 5,000 candelas per square meter during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 500 candelas per square meter between dusk to dawn, as measured from the displays face at maximum brightness settings.