52.01 GENERAL PROVISIONS.

All outdoor lighting on private or public property, except as otherwise set out in this chapter, shall be installed not to exceed fifteen (15) feet above ground level. In addition, the installed lighting shall be constructed and utilized in such a manner so that the light source is shielded or filtered to prevent direct or reflected light rays from being cast onto neighboring residential property. In the event that the light intensity at the window of a neighboring residential property within Zones R-1 or R-2 exceeds one-tenth foot candle, and has a light source outside that property, such condition is a violation of this chapter.

52.02 PERMIT.

Upon permit issued by the City Council, lighting not complying with the technical requirements of this chapter may be installed for sites or special uses. The permit application shall be submitted to the City Clerk and shall include plans indicating the location on the premises and a detailed description of the illuminating devices, fixtures, lamps, supports, reflectors, and other devices, including manufacturer’s catalog cuts and drawings, when requested. To obtain a permit, applicants shall demonstrate that the proposed lighting installation has sustained every reasonable effort to mitigate the effects of light on the environment and surrounding properties. The Council may prescribe in the permit any reasonable conditions or requirements in order to minimize adverse effects, including (but not limited to) employing lighting controls to reduce lighting at a specific curfew time.

52.03 EXCLUSIONS.

The following are specifically excluded from the provisions of this chapter.

   1.   Decorative outdoor lighting during the month of December.

   2.   Outdoor exterior protective lighting to include buildings and grounds of farms, schools, church buildings, fire stations and other public buildings are exempt from the height limitations.

   3.   Natural gas yard lights.

   4.   City-installed street lights.

52.04 RECREATIONAL FACILITIES.

Lighting of public or private outdoor recreational facilities, such as (but not limited to) football fields, soccer fields, baseball fields, softball fields, tennis courts, or special event or show areas, after 10:30 p.m. is prohibited, except to conclude a scheduled event that was scheduled to be completed before 10:30 p.m., when circumstances prevented concluding before 10:30 p.m.