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Staff begins targeted review of sign-lighting standards after illuminated monument request
Summary
Midlothian planning staff briefed the commission on possible sign-lighting standards—lumens/foot-candles, photometric plans and hours of operation—following a request to allow illuminated monument signs for a Tom Thumb site; no ordinance changes were adopted and staff will return with narrowed measures.
Planning staff told the commission they are starting a focused review of sign-lighting standards after a 2025 request that allowed illuminated monument signs for a Tom Thumb site on FM 1387 and Walnut Grove.
The staff presentation explained measurement units (lumens and foot-candles), luminaire terminology, and common regulatory tools such as maximum illumination limits measured at property lines, required photometric plans showing light distribution, and lighting plans with compliance and correction procedures. The presentation noted that some ordinances set hours of operation for illuminated signage and that staff reviewed examples from Grand Prairie, Fort Worth, Mansfield, Burleson and Waxahachie. “These aren’t the ones we’re adopting — I’m just letting you know that there are a lot of different measures,” staff said during the briefing.
Commissioners asked clarifying questions; staff said the commission would likely see narrowed, sign-specific standards at a future meeting that could include lumen/foot-candle limits, required photometric drawings, and hours-of-operation rules. No formal action was taken at this meeting.
The discussion grew out of prior consideration and a recently approved illuminated monument sign request; staff said a more comprehensive lighting review tied to the Economic Development Corporation update will follow the sign-focused work.
