It is unlawful for any person to operate within the town any incandescent or arc type searchlight, beacon light or similar lighting device designed to and capable of projecting a beam of light into the sky for a distance in excess of one-half (1/2) mile, unless permission is obtained from the town council. The provisions of this section shall not apply to emergency searchlights or beacons operated pursuant to public authority. (1986 Code § 10-1-13)