Burbank council introduces code to allow interactive wayfinding devices, adds protections

The Burbank City Council on Dec. 9 introduced an ordinance creating a regulatory framework for interactive wayfinding kiosks or devices in the public right‑of‑way, setting technical standards and permitting requirements while emphasizing that the primary purpose must be public wayfinding and information.

Assistant City Manager Courtney Padgett explained the proposed article would allow temporary or permanent placement of interactive wayfinding devices under a city operating agreement and required encroachment permits. Objective technical standards would limit audible output (two‑way emergency audio only; maximum 70 dB), restrict refresh rates (no more frequently than once every 10 seconds), require automatic dimming and brightness controls near residences, and require kiosks to shut off between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m. unless dimming standards are met. The ordinance is intended to be CEQA‑exempt and to impose no fiscal impact on the city; future installations would be funded by kiosk owners and subject to operating agreements.

Public commenters and councilmembers raised concerns about advertising, driver distraction and the word 'kiosk' as a definition; representatives of a provider (Ike) described technical safeguards (tempered glass, programming to avoid strobing, automatic dimming) and said their proposed agreements typically have a 10‑year term with renewal. Council clarified staff would craft contract provisions addressing glare, content limits and community benefit. Councilmember Mullins moved to introduce the ordinance with a language tweak replacing the self‑referencing definition to read 'interactive digital device' instead of defining 'kiosk' with the word 'kiosk'; the motion passed 5‑0.