Morrisville UDO - June 2017 version

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Article 5: Development Standards
Section 5.15. Exterior Lighting
5.15.1. Purpose
June 23, 2017 Morrisville, NC
Page 5-140 Unified Development Ordinance
SECTION 5.15. EXTERIOR LIGHTING
5.15.1. Purpose
This section is intended to regulate exterior lighting to:
A. Permit the use of exterior lighting at the minimum levels necessary for nighttime safety, utility, security,
productivity, enjoyment, and commerce;
B. Ensure exterior lighting does not adversely impact land uses on adjacent lands by minimizing light
trespass, obtrusive light, and glare;
C. Ensure the safety of motorists by minimizing light spillage and glare onto adjacent streets;
D. Curtail light pollution, reduce skyglow, and preserve the nighttime environment for the enjoyment of
residents and visitors;
E. Conserve energy and resources to the greatest extent possible; and
F. Ensure security for persons and properties.
5.15.2. Applicability
A. General
The provisions of this section shall apply to all new or expanded multifamily, nonresidential, and mixed-
use development, as well as any new or expanded off-street parking facilities, and any off-street
loading area, unless exempted by subsection below.
(Ord. No. 2015-002, 04/29/2015)
B. Exemptions
The following are exempted from the exterior lighting standards of this section:
Lighting within a public street right-of-way or easement that is used principally for illuminating a
roadway—but not lighting within a street right-of-way or easement that is designed to illuminate
areas outside the right-of-way or easement;
Lighting exempt from this Ordinance under state or federal law;
FAA-mandated lighting associated with a telecommunications or utility tower or an airport;
Lighting for public monuments and statuary;
Lighting for flags permitted in accordance with ;
Lighting solely for signage (subject to standards i
Temporary lighting for circuses, fairs, carnivals, theatrical and other performance areas—provided
such lighting is discontinued upon completion of the performance;
Temporary lighting of construction sites—provided such lighting is discontinued upon completion of
the construction activity;
Temporary lighting for emergency situations—provided such lighting is discontinued upon
abatement of the emergency situation;
Security lighting controlled and activated by motion sensor devices for a duration of 15 minutes or
less;
Underwater lighting in swimming pools, fountains, and other water features; and
Holiday or festive lighting—provided such lighting complies with the limitations on temporary
lighting associated with holiday decorations and civic events in Sectio