Electronic Message Signs Now OK in Richmond Heights

Electronic message signs will be permitted in as long as they conform to a new city code adopted June 4.

Bill No. 5345 won approval from City Council. It defines the signs in this way:

"Any sign, or portion of a sign, that displays an electronic age, which may or may not include text, where the rate of change is electronically programmed and can be modified by electronic processes. Electronic message signs include computer programmable, microprocessor, or controlled electronic displays and the images can be produced from LED technology, fiber optics, light bulbs, or other illumination devices within the display area.

"Electronic message signs do not include projected images or messages projected onto buildings or other objects. Electronic signs are permitted only by attachment to or placement as a ground sign."

The law also spells out other sign guidelines, including:

• Signs with flashing, blinking characters, scrolling text or continuous movement are prohibited.

• Signs will be permitted at elementary and secondary schools, churches, nonprofits and government buildings as long as they are set back 150 feet from homes; maintain a non-moving display from dusk to 9 p.m.; and are turned off between 9 p.m. and 9 a.m.

• Two seconds of animation must be followed by at least eight seconds of a non-moving display.

• Owners must immediately disable a sign upon notification from the city that the sign doesn't conform with code.

More about electronic message signs on Patch: