§ 64.232. Backlit Awnings Within the AC-3A District.

Backlit awnings shall be permitted in the AC-3A district, in accordance with the following standards, administered by the DDB/CRA:

1.

Within the Downtown Historic District, use of backlit awnings on 19th century buildings shall be prohibited; use on 20th century buildings shall be restricted to retail storefronts particularly of Art Deco, Art Moderne, International, Early 20th Century Commercial and Mediterranean Revival.

2.

The color and tone of the proposed backlit awning shall be considered during DRC review.

3.

"Bellies" or bottoms shall be required on backlit awnings and shall consist of "egg crate" material with ½″ squares, or solid fabric so that the color of light transmitted downward remains white. The belly shall have removable panels or sections to allow for cleaning and service.

4.

Warm white fluorescent tubing shall be required. Bulbs shall be self-ballasted. Lighting shall be evenly distributed across the awning face and/or valances so that there are no bright spots. Light shall be evenly diffused and the source of light shall be out of the direct view of the pedestrian. Lighting shall be UL lighted for outdoor use.

5.

Fluorescent tubing shall be positioned 24″—36″ from fabric, and between rows depending upon the projection of the awning. Only one tube per row shall be allowed.

6.

Application of signage shall be done through cut out letters.

A request for backlit awnings must be submitted to the Development Review Committee for review and approval prior to the building permit process. Nothing in these guidelines should be considered as permission for the removal of existing historic canopy or awning for replacement with a backlit awning.

(Ord. of 9-16-1991, Doc. #25101)