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Council reviews draft rules for electronic message boards, limits animation to short transitions
Summary
Council reviewed an ordinance that would regulate electronic message centers citywide, requiring automatic dimming, limiting image transitions and enforcing a minimum five-second static display; letter K (operational rules) would take effect April 1, 2026, with education for sign owners.
City staff presented draft regulations for electronic message centers that would set construction and operational limits for the devices and create a phased enforcement schedule.
The proposal sets technical and use limits: the transition animation between images may last no more than five seconds and, after any transition, an image must remain static for at least five seconds, according to planning staff. The draft also prohibits sequential or "chasing" messages, movies, audio, and continual animation; older legally-permitted small scrolling signs (less than 2 feet tall) would be exempted.
Why it matters: Staff and council said the rules are designed to curb distracting, high-frequency animation while allowing businesses flexibility. Council members praised the planning commission’s outreach and a recent workshop with sign manufacturers that informed practical standards.
Enforcement and timing: Staff said letters A–J of the ordinance would take effect upon adoption for construction and siting rules; letter K (detailed use rules) would begin April 1, 2026 to allow sign owners time to reprogram systems. Enforcement would follow existing code-violation procedures via citizen complaints (ClickFix or direct call) and field checks by code officers.
What’s next: Staff said it will produce a pamphlet clarifying the new rules for sign owners and that enforcement will begin with education and follow standard citation procedures for repeat violations.
