HomeMy WebLinkAboutRegulating the Erection, Construction, Repair, Alteration, Location of all Electric SignsORDINANCE No. 4303 --
Passed by the Common Council of the City of South Bend, Indiana
FEBRUARY 23, 1g2Vg-
�t Presented by me to the Mayor of the City of South Bend, Ind*ana
Approved and signed by
FEBRUARY 24,
Clerk
of Common Council '
:r
FEBRUARY 24,
Clerk
AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE ERECTION, CONSTRUCTION, REPAIR, ALTERATION,
LOCATION, OF ALL ELECTRIC SIGNS; LOCATION OF ALL OVERHANGING SIGNS AND
ALL TYPES OF ELECTRIFIED SIGNS WITHIN THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND, INDIANA;
PROVIDING FOR THE POSTING OF BONDS, LICENSING OF SIGN CONTRACTORS: THE
ISSUANCE OF PERMITS AND FEES THEREFORE; AND PROVIDING FOR MINIMUM CON-
STRUCTION STANDARDS.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH BEND,
INDIANA, THAT:
SECTION 1.
The provisions of this Ordinance shall not apply to signs installed
on private property that do not project over public property.
SECTION 2.
DEFINITION:
(A) Illuminated signs shall be deemed to be signs constructed as follows:
Signs, all or any part of the letters or characters of which are made in an
outline of lamps or tubes. Signs with painted, flush or raised letters, or
characters lighted by a lamp or lamps or tubes attached thereto, or re-
flecting light thereon. Glass or plastic signs, whether lighted by electricity
or any other illuminates. Signs with painted flush or raised letters or
characters illuminated by lamps or tubes placed for the purpose of projecting
or reflecting light thereon and signs having any electrical equipment attached
thereto. Illumination of sign boards may be from a source attached to the
structure or a source removed.
(B) Illuminated signs that project at any angle from the building or structure
against which the same are placed, whether such signs are vertical or horizon-
tal, shall be deemed projecting signs.
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(C) Illuminated signs placed against a building or structure running parallel
thereto and not projecting at any angle therefrom shall be deemed flat signs.
(D) Illuminated signs erected on the roof of building shall be deemed roof
signs.
(E) Illuminated signs supported by a canopy shall be deemed a projecting sign.
SECTION 3.
(A) Any sign weighing 800 pounds or more cannot be installed until the follow-
ing information is furnished to the Chief Electrical Inspector:
1. Weight of sign.
2. Its location on the building or structure.
3. Size of vertical chains or cables.
4. Size of horizontal chains or cables and method of attaching sign
support or supports to building.
5. Type and size of galvanized eyebolts holding supporting chains or
galvanized cables.
6. Location of supporting eyebolts.
7. Total wattage of sign.
Permit, if approved, will be issued for the specifications only as furnished.
(B) It shall be the duty of the Chief Electrical Inspector to exercise super-
vision over all illuminated signs and supporting structures erected or being
erected and maintained under the provisions of this Ordinance and to cause
inspection by inspectors in his department of all such signs and supporting
structures to be made once each year and oftener where the conditions of such
signs supporting structures so require.
(C) All signs manufactured in or outside of the City of South Bend must have
affixed seal of approval by the Chief Electrical Inspector before such signs
are hung.
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SECTION 4.
(A) It shall be unlawful to hang, enlarge or rehang any sign covered in this
Ordinance unless a permit has been obtained from the Electrical Inspection
Department.
(B) No attachment or addition to signs shall be made to an illuminated sign
unless a permit has been issued for the express purpose of allowing such
attachment.
SECTION 5.
APPLICATIONS;
Applications for permits for illuminated signs shall be.made only for bonded
sign erector and shall be countersigned by licensed electrical contractor who
does all electrical connections from building to sign.
SECTION 6.
DRAWINGS REQUIRED.
Drawing prepared by licensed architect or structural engineer and bearing his
seal shall be presented with permit application for signs in the following
categories.
1. Supported by canopy.
2. Exceeding 799 pounds or 75 or more square feet in area of one
face of a projecting sign.
3. Held by diverging guys or supports at angles less than 45 degrees
with the sign structure.
4. Projecting signs having more than 40% of vertical dimension above roof
line and containing more than 40 square feet in area of one face.
5. Cranes supported by roof structures, provided area of sign exceeds
more than 40 square feet in area of one face.
6. Supported other than by chains.
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SECTION 7.
POSTING OF BONDS:
Every person, company or corporation erecting, maintaining or removing illumin-
ated signs shall submit to the Chief Electrical Inspector a bond with sureties
to be approved by the City Controller in the penal sum of $10,000.00 (ten
thousand dollars) conditioned that such person, firm or corporation shall
faithfully comply with the provisions and requirements of this ordinance with
respect to the alterations, location and safety of signs and for the payment
of the original permit fees required by the ordinance and conditioned further
to indemnify, save, and keep the City of South Bend and its officials harmless
from any claims, damages, liabilities, losses, actions, suits or judgments
which may be presented, sustained, brought or obtained against the City of
South Bend or its officials because of the maintenance, alteration, construction
or removal of any illuminated signs, or by reason of any accidents caused by or
resulting therefrom.
SECTION 8.
PERMIT AND INSPECTION FEES:
Permit fees for illuminated signs projecting over public property shall be
divided as follows;
Permit fees for new signs shall be calculated at the rate of 15 cents
per square foot of each face measured on skeleton framework.
Permit fees for signs flat against a building shall be computed as
follows: 15 cents per square foot, measured as total area of display
surface.
SECTION 9.
HEIGHT:
(A) The overall vertical dimension of an illuminated projecting sign shall
not exceed 60 feet.
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(B) Signs flat against the building may be erected at entrance door height
provided entire sign box is flat against the building wall; otherwise, sign
must clear sidewalk by 9 (nine) feet.
SECTION 10.
LOCATION:
Illuminated signs projecting over public property shall:
(A) Be supported by a structure anchored wholly within the lot lilies.
(B) Have the lowest part overhanging the public way, at least ten(10) feet
above public way, provided sign does not project within two (2) feet of curb line.
(C) If installed over an alley, shall be at least eighteen (18) feet above
road way.
(D) Flat signs shall not be supported by or placed over parapet of wall. No
sign shall be attached to or supported by a chimney or water tank.
SECTION 11.
CONSTRUCTION:
(A) BOX OR DRUM. The design shall be such as to afford ample strength and
rigidity, to render the box practically weatherproof, to enclose all terminals
and wiring, and to provide drainage for each compartment.
(B) JOINTS. Where joints occur in a metal box or drum, they shall be riveted
or bolted and shall be lap type. The lap shall be sufficient for weatherproof-
ing.
(C) OPENINGS IN BOX OR DRUM. All openings in the box or drum shall be provided
with covers arranged to lock securely. Unless hinged, the covers shall be
secured to the sign box by a non - corrosive chain. When openings occur in the
top section of the box or drum, an upstanding flange shall be provided around
the entire opening.
(D) CONSTRUCTION OF FACES, BOXES AND BACKS. Approved plastic may be used for
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sign faces but not as a.supporting means. If metal is used in the construction
of illuminated sign faces on box type signs or letters, it shall be not less
than No. 24 U.S. gauge (.025 inch). Metal used in faces of signs other than
box type shall be not less than No. 18 U.S. gauge (.050 inch). Metal shall be
used.for construction of backs of flat signs and shall be not less than No. 24
U.S, gauge (.025 inch). Metal shall be used in the construction of box or
drum, i.e., that section to which the sign faces are attached, and shall be not
less than No. 20 U.S. sheet metal gauge (.037 inch). Box or drum shall be
galvanized steel and drainage shall be provided by means of one or more holes,
each not larger than one inch or less than one - quarter inch in diameter.
(E). REINFORCEMENT OF FACES. Metal faces of all illuminated signs more than two
feet wide shall be reinforced on the inside with galvanized iron stiffening
channels or angles and also stayed or braced to the frame or opposite side, such
stays or braces to be so placed that all surface areas of ten square feet are so
reinforced.
(F) FRAMEWORK. All signs having an area of twelve or more square feet of one
face shall have an approved structural framework of galavanized steel angles or
the equivalent in strength to be not less than specified in the following tables;
AREA OF FACE
12 to 20 sq. ft.
21 to 40 sq. ft.
41 to 70 sq. ft.
Larger than above
PROJECTING SIGNS
12 x 12 x 3/16
2x2x3/16
2x2x1/4
2z x 22 x 1/4
SINGLE FACED SMOS
12 x 1- x 3/16
12x2x3/16
2x2x3/16
2x2x1/4
(G) INTERMEDIATE BRACES. Signs of ten (10) or more lineal feet shall have an
intermediate brace for every five (5) lineal feet. If frame is made of angle
larger than 12" x 12" x 3/16 ", the next size angle may be used as brace.
All connections between frame work member shall be made with galvanized machine
bolts not less than three- eights (3/8) inches in diameter or riveted. Gusset
plates or equivalent shall be used in making these connections where the area of
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the sign is greater than forty (40) square feet. Metal sign faces shall be
bolted, screwed or riveted to flange of drum with a maximum distance of eight
(8) inches on center. If riveted, suitable tinned or cherry rivets shall be
used. If bolted, brass or galvanized bolts not less than 8 -32 shall be used.
If screwed, suitable sheet metal screws shall be used. All irons ,provided for
attachments to the building, the attachment of guys and lift chains and the
attachment to a crane, shall be directly connected to the structural framework
of the sign.
Signs built in more than one section shall have provision for connecting sections
during the course of erection so that the entire structural framework will act
as a completely fabricated and assembled unit, Each section shall be so con-
structed that the interior is accessible for maintenance and inspection.
(H) GLASS. The glass in a box type sign shall be double strength or plate
glass, The area of any one piece of glass in each face of a sign over public
property shall not exceed eight (8) square feet where double strength glass is
used, nor eighteen (18) square feet where plate glass is used. Each such piece
shall be supported by a separate frame.
(I) PLASTICS. Approved plastic materials, such as acrylic plastic or its
equivalent, may be used on signs under the following conditions:
1. The material shall not be subjected to a temperature higher than
149 degrees F. unless such material is certified by the manufacturer to
be special heat resistant material, in which case the temperature shall
not exceed 180 degrees. F.
2. The sign shall be so constructed that the plastic material will not
come in contact with gas tubes or other source of illumination and shall
be kept at least two (2) inches from the nearest incandescent lamp.
3. The wiring and current carrying parts, other than lampholders, shall
be enclosed in metal.
4. When plastic material is mounted in a metal frame, proper provision
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shall be made for the difference in expansion between the plastic and the
frame. One- sixteenth (1116) inch total clearance for each twelve (12)
inches or fraction thereof, of the dimension perpendicular to the mounted
edge shall be provided in the mounting system.
5. When plastic is held in place by flanges, troughs, channels or clips,
these means of attachment shall overlap the plastic by not less than three -
eighths (3/8) inch for panels up to twelve (12).inches wide; for panels over
twelve (12) inches wide and up to twenty -four (24) inches wide, seven six-
teenth (7/16) inch; from twenty -four, (24) inches to thirty -six (36) inches
wide, one half (J) inch; thirty -six (36) inches to forty -eight (48) inches
wide, nine - sixteenth (9116) inch; and over forty -eight (48) inches, three
fourths (3/4) inch.
Flanges, troughs or continuous channels shall be made of galvanized sheet
metal, copper or aluminum, not less than twenty (20) gauge U.S. standard
in thickness, Where clips are used for attachment they shall be made of
non - corrosive spring type material such as phosphor bronze or equivalent;
the thickness of which shall not be less than .032" in thickness. Each
clip shall not be less than two (2) inches wide and clips, bolts, screws
or rivets shall be spaced on not less than seven (7) inch centers around
the entire perifery of the plastic.
6. When bolts, screws or rivets are used to fasten plastic material to a
metal frame, washers shall be placed under the heads of the bolts, screws
or rivets. These washers shall be of metal of a non - corrosive material
and have an outside diameter of not less than six (6) times the diameter
of the screw being used. Washers to be not less than .032" in thickness.
7. Undue pressure of fastening devices against the plastic material should
be avoided by use of suitable gasket material, spring tension, or adeq
ate clearance to allow.for expansion.
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8. Removable plastic panels not fastened to the frame or supported on all
edges shall be supported on their longest dimension by troughs on two
opposite edges. Where such removable panels are made in several sections,
the adjacent edges shall be joined together where the adjacent edges ex-
ceeds twelve (12) inches in length by fastenings directly supported to the
frame of the sign. Such fastenings to be not less than tvielve (12) inches
on centers.
9. The plastic decorations, faces, panels and letter facings shall either;
(a) Be demonstrated to be of sufficient thickness or so formed or
supported as to withstand twenty -five (25) pounds uniform load per
square foot without coming in contact with gas tubes or any other
source of illumination and without coming within two (2) inches of an
Incandescent lamp, or
(b) Be of a thickness not less than that indicated in the following
table:
Minor dimension of Minimum nominal
Exposed Plastic Thickness
Sheet Flat Panels of Plastic
12" .060"
18" .080"
24" .100"
3011 12511
48" .187"
60" 250"
Plastic sign faces, panels, and decorations, the dimensions of which are
fixed by reference to this table, shall be so stayed, braced or supported
as to prevent contact with gas tubes or any other source of illumination
and so as to prevent deflection of a point within two (2) inches of an
incandescent lamp. (The dimension between supported edges shall be con-
sidered to be minor dimension for purposes of this table.)
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10. Plastic sheets may not be used as a supporting means for current
carrying parts or sources of illumination.
11. Approved solid type or hollow plastic letters or characters may be
used provided they are not used as a raceway.
(J) CATWALKS AND LADDERS. Catwalks for maintenance purposes on signs and sign
structures shall be constructed of metal, Ladders on sign structures shall be
at least fifteen (15) inches wide, Ladders on signs shall be metal and shall
not be less than ten (10) inches wide.
Horizontal projecting signs, the bottoms of which are more than 28, 0"
above the public way, shall be provided with catwalks and handrails.
Horizontal flat signs, the bottoms of which are more than 28' 0" above
the way, shall be provided with catwalks and handrails unless signs can be
maintained by means other than ladders supported from the way.
Vertical signs, the bottoms of which are more than 281 0" above the way,
or with a vertical dimension of more than 28' 0" shall have ladders the full
vertical distance of sign. In addition, all signs in the above category which
are more than 4' 0" wide shall be provided with a steel structure at top of
sign for maintenance purposes.
Structures over twelve (12) feet high used primarily to support illuminated
signs shall be provided with ladders extending from roof or ground to top of
structure and in addition, shall have catwalks so that all parts of display
are accessible for maintence purposes.
(K) MOVING PARTS. Signs employing the use of moving parts for animated action
as well as clocks and thermometers shall be so designed that the driving mechan-
ism and the driven linkage and the supporting bearings are securely anchored to
the main steel structure of the sign, and the supports for the movable portions
of the display must be calculated to support its weight plus the maximum wind
pressure to which the movable portions may be subjected. Mechanical motions
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having an arc of rotation of less than sixty (60) degrees rotation must be
accomplished through the use of slip rings.
(L) SAFETY pROVISIONS. Facilities for proper protection of the public must be
provided during the erection or maintenance of all signs.
SECTION 12.
WIREING UNDER 60o voms:
(A) WIRE SIZE. Wire shall be of approved type not less than No. 14 B & S
gauge in size. Special permission may be granted to use wire smaller than No.
14 B & S gauge in the installation of moving flashing letters.
(B) CONNECTION. Where signs are connected to previously installed mains, the
contractor connecting the sign will be held responsible for condition of these
mains. Connections shall not be made unless the mains referred to are of
sufficient capacity, in good condition and in compliance with the rules. Signs
may be connected to interior lighting circuits (except circuits feeding show
windows) provided the combined load on the circuit does not exceed fifteen(15)
amperes. All signs shall be permanently and effectively grounded to the conduit
system. All outside wiring for signs shall be installed in rigid conduit; pro -
vided, however, for swing signs the conduit shall terminate at the level of
the crane within three (3) feet of the sign and flexible conduit or other ap-
proved means used to complete the connection. The flexible conduit shall have
a drip loop and must be plastic covered.
Circuits shall be so arranged that the load connected to them shall in no
case be such as to place more than fifteen (15) amperes on the branch circuit
over - current protective device.
In addition to the current limitation of fifteen (15) amperes branch cir-
cuits supplying incandescent lighting of attraction board signs shall be limited
to sixteen (16) sockets. However, for lighting of silhouette letters on at-
traction board signs, not more than forty (40) sockets on a branch lighting
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circuit will be allowed if the sockets have a spacing of not mole than four (4)
inches to center to center.
Branch circuit wires for each section for attraction board signs shall be
carried to the distributing center of the section in rigid conduit.
Provision shall be made for the ventilation of attraction board signs
illuminated by lamps on the inside.
Circuits for canopy ceilings shall be limited to sixteen (16) sockets.
(C) LOAD. Mains feeding signs shall be calculated on the basis of full con-
nected load, whether flashers are used or not, but in no case shall there be a
capacity for less than ten (10) watt lamps. Where more than one reading matter
is overlaid on a single panel and only one reading matter is illuminated at one
time, the mains may be calculated on the basis of the maximum load at one time.
(D) WIRING OF SOCKETS. Wires shall be soldered to terminals of sockets and
exposed parts of wires and terminals shall be treated to prevent corrosion.
(E) BUSHINGS. Approved bushings shall be employed to protect wires passing
through walls or partitions of the sign structure.
(F) SWITCHES. Each sign shall be controlled by a switch which will open all
ungrounded conductors.
If transformers are installed inside the building wall and switch shall
be installed at the transformer location. Switch may be installed inside flat
or recessed signs or letters if special permission is obtained. In these cases
covers over handholes must be clearly marked with a metal tag to indicate loca-
tion of switch.
All switches shall be 0 to 30 ampere knife blade contact and if mounted
outside of sign shall be in weatherproof enclosure. An electrically operated
magnetically held contactor shall be employed as control switch on all neon
signs requiring more than six (6) circuits.
The coil circuit shall be controlled by single pole switches in series,
one of which shall be located at magnetically held contactor.
12
Where a time switch is used to control a sign, a manually operable switch
shall be installed ahead or on the outside of the time switch.
(G) ACCESSORIES. Flashers (except thermal flashers) may be placed in access-
ible boxes or cabinets constructed of metal of a thickness or not less than
No. 20 U.S. standard gauge (.0375 inch). Boxes or cabinets shall be suitably
protected against corrosion and where exposed to moisture shall be weatherproof
construction.
Silver contact low tension flashers of not more than six circuit capacity
may be placed inside sign, in a separate compartment, if a section of the sign
can be removed to afford easy accessibility.
Cutouts shall be installed in a vertical position and shall not be placed
in the same compartment with the flasher. Cutouts, converters or any device
not an integral part of the sign shall not be placed inside sign.
No flood lights or spotlights shall be installed on a projecting sign un-
less built into bottom of sign box for purpose of illuminating sidewalk or to
illuminate sign on which placed.
(H) SOCKETS. Sockets for sign shall be of the switchless porcelain or molded
composition type, and shall be so designed as to afford permanent and reliable
means to prevent turning, terminals of sockets shall be kept at least one -half'
(J) inch from the metal of the sign or trough. Miniature sockets shall not be
employed for outdoor work. Pin point sockets may be used in conjunction with
standard wire.
SECTION 13.
WIRING ABOVE 600 vous:
(A) CONDUCTORS:
1. Conductors for circuits operating at a potential in excess of 600
volts shall be of a type approved for the purpose, suitable for the voltage
involved and shall be not smaller than No. 14 and shall, if within a sign
or other enclosure, be supported on insulating supports, placed not more
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than three (3) feet apart which separate the wires at least two (2) inches
from each other and from conducting materials.
2. Conductors within a sign or other enclosure shall have rubber compound
or other approved insulation or approved open conductor methods.
3. Sharp bends in the conductors shall be avoided.
4. Conductors, other than installed within a sign, shall be installed in
conduit, or electrical metallic tubing. Approved insulating bushings
shall be used where the gas tube cable enters or leaves the conduit.
(H) TRANSFORMERS:
1. Transformers shall be of a type approved for the purpose. 'Where
exposed to the weather they shall be of the weatherproof type, or installed
in tube - terminal housings or approved metal boxes.
2. Transformers shall be mounted on brackets directly connected to frame
of sign. On signs under twelve (12) square feet where frame is not re-
quired, transformers shall be supported on brackets fastened to the sides
of the sign and in no case shall the transformer be resting on bottom of
sign box.
3. Transformers shall be of types whose ratings do not exceed 900 volt
ampere primary nor 15,000 volt secondary open circuit voltage with an
allowance on test of 1000 volts additional.
Transformers whose secondary current ratings exceed 60 milliamperes
shall be provided with an automatic safety disconnect device which will
remove the primary voltage from the transformer when current flows to
ground from any part of the high voltage circuit in excess of 20 milli-
amperes. Such device shall operate within a period of 20 cycles or 1/3
of a second.
4. Not more than one transformer shall be dependent upon a single auto-
matic over - current protective device unless the combined load does not
exceed fifteen (15) amperes, at 125 volts or less. Where circuit feeds
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a mixed load of incandescent lights and transformers the load shall not
exceed fifteen (15) amperes.
5. Enclosures for transformers, tube terminals or any devices when not
in sign shall be No. 20 U.S, sheet metal gauge or equivalent (.0375 inch).
Enclosures for outside use shall be made weatherproof.
\ (C) GROUNDING. Transformer frames, motor generator, rotary converter frames,
metal sign frame and each section of a multiple section sign and other equipment
conduit for both high and low tension wiring, transformer terminals intended to
be grounded, and isolated sections of conduit shall be permanently and effect-
ively grounded.
(D) GAS TUBING.
1. The tubing shall be of such a length and design as not to cause a
continuous over - voltage on the transformers.
2. The supports for the tubing shall be of the insulated type of non-
absorptive incombustible material and preferably adjustable. They shall
maintain the tubing not less than k inch from metal parts and this spacing
shall be maintained where the tubing passes through metal barriers. Tube
terminals shall comply with one of the following;
(a) SKELETON GLASS LETTER SIGN AND OUTLINE BORDERS. When the
electrodes are in a vertical position, they shall be covered by a
glass shield where socket receptacles are not used. When electrodes
are in a horizontal position glass tubing may be used to enclose the
terminals. The distance between terminals in either case shall not
exceed 1J inches. Sleeves covering terminals shall extend not less
than 1z inches beyond nearest live part. Where gas tube cable leaves
the conduit electric metallic tubing or other metal enclosure not
more than six (6) inches of cable shall be exposed.
(b) TUBE TERMINALS ENTERING A BOX, TROUGH OR OTHER ENCLOSURE,
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Electrode receptacles approved-for the purpose shall be used. They
shall be of incombustible non- absorbent insulating material. A
flexible non - conducting seal may be used, to close the mouth of the
receptacle against entrance of dust and moisture. The seal shall not
be in contact with grounded conducting material. Where physical con-
ditions are such as to make the installation of receptacles impossible,
bushings may be used, provided the uninsulated conductor electrode
terminals or pigtails and other insulating parts are so supported as
to insure a permanent spacing to grounded metal or parts of opposite
polarity of not less than one and one -half (1J) inches.
(c) WHERE TUBING PASSES THROUGH WALL. The electrode terminal a shall
be enclosed in a sheet metal enclosure not less than No. 20 U.S. sheet
metal gauge (.0375 inch) or equivalent or where not feasible for the
electrode.terminal to pass through the wall that an auxillary glass
sleeve be provided to contain an extension jumper which shall termin-
ate in the aforementioned sheet metal enclosure.
SECTION 14,
HANGING:
(A) FLAT SIGNS. Fiat signs shall be anchored below roof line except that
additional support other than chain may be provided over parapet to roof.
(B) PROJECTING SIGNS. Projecting signs exceeding 100 square feet in area of
one face shall be rigidly hung on beams.
Separate projecting signs so hung as to appear as one sign shall be
rigidly hung on beams if the total area of all faces on one side of sign
exceeds 100 square feet.
(C) CHAIN, SIDE GUTS AND RIGID BRACE SUPPORTS.
i. All projectilg.signe shall have standard chain or cable supports and
fastenings to the building as shown in the following tables:
16-
`ei 'at
of
Nlmnber of
'Trade size of
gn -
lbs.
Chains or
Chains or Cables
Cables
Up to
75
i
4/o
76 to
L,5O
2
1:/0
:.51 to
!400
2
8; ,
401 to
1000
2
10 /0
Fastening to Wall
Toro expm:sion bolts per chair..
Two expansion bolts per chain.
One bolt through wall or equivalent.
Two bolts through wall or egaivalent-
Fastenings shall be so installed that attached supports or guys make an
angle of forty -five (45) degrees or greater with sign. 4Ihere machine or
lag screws enter strong structures anchorage they will be considered as
equivalent to bolt through the wall. Expansion bolts shall be not less
than three- eighths (3/8) inch in diameter and shall enter woodwork not
less than three (3) inches.
2. No supporting chain or cable shall be attached back of the center of
gravity of the sign, except in the case of the rear supports of vertical
signs.
3. Each left chain or cable shall be capable of carrying the sign alone.
Fastenings for signs, supports or guys shall not be attached to paratet
walls and shall not be less than eight (8) inches from corner of building.
4. All projecting signs shall have standard chain or cable side guys or
rigid brace supports as shown in the following tables;
Capacity in square feet of sign surface for pipe braces;
Trade Cutside Length of Brace (Feet)
Size Diameter
of Pipe of Pipe 3 4 5 6 7 8 ,9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 20 22
`. j2 3.62 38 22 2;
3/4 1.03 40 28 15
1 1.29 54 33 3
1 -1/4 1.65 70 53 37 21
i -1/4 1.89 56 41 23
2 2.30' 78 60 25
2-1/2 2.86 95 48
more than forty uouare feet to one brace.
Pipe braces shall not have joints near center.
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The ends of the pipe shall be closed by welding or by the use of approved
fittings.
Capacity in Square Feet of Sign Surface for Angle Iron Braces:
Dimensions of Length of Brace (Feet)
Angle Iron - inches 4 5 6 78 9 10
14
1 x 1 x 3/16 — 12
11 x 11 x 3/16 37 20
12 x 121 x 3/16 57 41 25 8
1 3/4 x 1/3/4 x 3/16 61 28 12
2x2x3/16 49 32 16
22 x 22 x '- 3/16 58 41 25
3 x 3 x 92 56 24
3z x 3z x u 77 42 9
1. __ 1. __ 1
5. Projecting signs with chain or cable or rigid pipe side guys shall be
hinged at the building so that, should the sign swing on account of loosen-
ing of the side guys, no undue strain will be placed on the supporting
bolts. Where the length of the hangar iron projecting from the sign frame
is of a length that will not permit hinging due to the interference of the
sign drum with the supporting wall, said wall connections shall be made by
means of two anchor bolts in the wall for each hangar iron, and the wall
plates shall be fastened with not less than two bolts to the iron frame
of the sign.
6. Each chain or cable used for the support or for the side guy of sign
shall have an independent attachment to the building or supporting struc-
ture, and shall make an angle of 45 degrees or greater with the sign.
7. Where supporting chains are attached to bolts through the wall such
bolts shall be not less than five - eighths (5/8) inch in diameter. The
bolt shall be anchored by a washer plate of not less than twenty -four (24)
square inches of surface and not less than one - eighth (1/8) inch thick.
8. Chains or cables shall not be fastened to window frames or sills.
9• A turnbuckle shall be provided for all supporting chains or cables and
side guys. Turnbuckles shall have a breaking strength equivalent to that
of the chain or cable to which they are attgo4ed and shall be not less than
- 18 -
three- sixteenths (3/16) inches.
10. Split links used for connection of chains shall be of standard design
and shall have a breaking strength at least equivalent to that of the phain
or cable to which they are attached.
11. All chains or cables, turnbuckles, split links, bolts and screws, and
all other devices which support or form a part of the support of a sign
shall be galvanized or otherwise suitably protected from corrosion in some
approved manner.
12. Where necessary to use a saddle for the fastening of a building iron,
rigid construction shall be used. Chains or cables will not be approved.
13. Machine screws in iron fronts shall be not less than one -half ()
inch in diameter and shall pass through iron work.
14. Projecting signs, left chains or guys shall not be attached to wooden
bays.
(D) SWINGING SIGNS. Swinging signs shall be supported by a pipe crane, or the
equivalent, as shown in the following tables:
0
to
75 lbs.
1"
Pipe
76
to
150 lbs.
1 -1/4"
Pipe
151
to
300 lbs.
1 -1/2"
Pipe
301
to
450 lbs.
2"
Pipe
451
to
1000 lbs.
2 -1/2"
Pipe
Swinging signs having a length of more than eight (8) feet shall have not less
than three (3) hanging irons. Not less than two (2) bolts shall be used to
fasten strap to hanging iron. All cranes shall be further supported by an
additional lift chain not more than two feet no inches (2104) from building.
No crane shall be erected higher than twenty -eight (28) feet above the way.
(E) OBSTRUCTIONS.
I. Signs shall not obstruct or be attached to any part of a fire escapes
19 -
and where a sign is-hung near a fire escape, it shall be arranged to swing
away from such fire escape.
2. Signs shall be installed so that a clearance of not less than six (6)
feet is maintained between any wire of a high potential circuit and the
sign, sign support of sign guy. Similar clearance of not less than six
(6) feet shall be maintained between any other municipal or public utility
wire. Sign hanger shall make arrangements to have wire rerouted when
necessary before the sign is hung.
3• Signs covering windows used for light and ventilation will not be
approved unless permission is obtained from the Department of Buildings.
(F) ROOF STRUCTURES UNDER 1210 ". Where it is necessary to use a roof structure
to support a sign, such structure shall be constructed of steel. If structure
is twelve (12) feet or less the minimum requirements shall be as per appendix
note.
SECTION 15.
SPECIAL EQUIPMENT, OUTLINE LIGHTING:
(A) SCOPE. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the installation of
conductors and equipment for outline lighting.
(B). SWITCH REQUIRED. Each outline lighting installation shall be controlled
by an externally operable switch which will open all undergrounded conductors.
(C) IN SIGHT OF LOAD. The switch required shall be within sight of the outline
lighting which it controls.
(D) RATING. Switches, flashers, and similar devices controlling transformers
shall be either of a type approved for the purpose, or have a current rating
not less than twice the current rating of the transformers.
(E) GROUNDING. Troughs, tube terminal boxes and other metal frames shall be
grounded in the manner specified in this Code, unless they are insulated from
ground and from other conducting surfaces and are inaccessible to unauthorized
persons.
- 20 -
(F) LOAD OF BRANCH CIRCUIT. Circuits shall be so arranged that the number of
outlets, lamps and transformers connected to them, shall in no case place more
than 12 amperes on a branch circuit.
(G) MARKING. Transformers shall be marked with the input rating in amperes of
volt - amperes, the input voltage and the open - circuit high tension voltage.
(H) ENCLOSURES. Enclosures for outline lighting shall conform to the followings
1. CONIXICTORS AND TERMINALS. Cabinets and outline troughs shall have
conductors and terminals, except the supply leads, enclosed.
2. CUTOUTS, FLASHERS, ETC. Cutouts, flashers and similar devices, shall
be in a separate compartment. They shall be enclosed in approved metal
boxes, the doors of which shall be arranged so that they can be opened
without removing obstructions or finished parts of the enclosure.
3. ENCLOSURE EXPOSED TO THE WEATHER. Enclosures for outside use shall
be weatherproof and shall have an ample number of drain holes, each not
larger than V2 inch or smaller than 1/4 inch. Wiring connections shall
not be made through the bottoms of enclosures exposed to the weather
unless the enclosures are of the raintight type.
4. MATERIAL. Outline lighting shall be constructed of metal or other non-
combustible material. Wood may be used for external decoration if placed
at least 2 inches from the nearest lampholder or current - carrying part.
5. STRENGTH. Enclosures shall have ample strength and rigidity.
6. THICKNESS OF METAL. Sheet copper shall be at least 20 ounce (0.028
inch). Sheet steel may be of No. 28 USS gauge (.0149 inch) except that
for outline lighting sheet steel shall be of No. 24 USS (.0239 Inch),
unless ribbed, corrugated or embossed over its entire surface, when it
may be of No. 26 USS gauge (.0179 inch).
7. PROTECTION OF METAL. All metallic parts of enclosures shall be gal-
vanized or otherwise protected from corrosion.
- 21 -
(1) TUBE TERMINALS. The terminals shall be so designed that the tubing can
be replaced without the necessity of exposing uninsulated live parts. If the
spring contact type of receptacle is used, it shall be so designed that, even
with the tube removed, the live spring will be recessed a distance equal to
three times the diameter of the receptacle opening. It is recommended that
the primary circuit be controlled by a relay that will open the circuit when a
tube in the secondary circuit is broken or removed. Live parts shall be pro-
tected by barriers which require other than ordinary tools such as pliers and
screw - drivers for removal unless access to the parts requiries the disconnection
of the primary circuit.
SECTION 16.
OUTLINE LIGHTING - 600 VOLTS OR LESS:
(A) INSTALLATION OF CONDUCTORS. Conductors shall be installed as follows:
1. WIRING METHOD. Conductors shall be installed in rigid metal conduit,
flexible metal conduit, electrical metallic tubing, armored cable or metal
troughing.
2. INSULATION AND SIZE. Conductors shall be of a type approved for
general use and for short leads permanently attached to lampholders or
ballasts, shall be not smaller than No. 14.
3. CONDUCTORS SOLDERED TO TERMINALS. Where the conductors are fastened
to lampholders other than of the pin type, they shall be soldered to the
terminals and the exposed parts of conductors and terminals shall be
treated to prevent corrosion.
4. LANPHOLDERS. Lampholders shall be of the unswitched type having
bodies of suitable insulating material and shall be so constructed and
installed as to prevent turning. Miniature lampholders shall not be
employed for outline lighting.
- 22 -
SECTION 17. `
OUTLINE LIGHTING - EXCEEDING 600 vOLTS:
(A) INSTALLATION OF CONDUCTORS. Conductors shall be installed as follows:
1. WIRING METHOD. Conductors shall be installed in rigid or flexible
metal conduit. Conductors may be run from the ends of tubing to the
grounded midpoint of transformers specificially designed for the purpose
and provided with terminals at the midpoint. Where such connections are
made to the transformer grounded midpoint, the connections betweep the
high - voltage terminals of the transformer and the line ends of the tubing
shall be as short as possible.
2. INSULATION AND SIZE. Conductors shall be of a type approved for the
purpose and for the voltage of the circuit, and shall be not smaller than
No. 14.
3. BENDS IN CONDUCTORS. Sharp bends in the conductors shall be avoided.
4. CONDUCTORS IN RACEWAXS, If the conductors are covered with lead or
other metal sheathing, the covering shall extend beyond the end of the
raceway, and the surface of the cable shall hot be injured where the
covering, terminates. In damp or wet locations, the insulation on all
conductors shall extend beyond the metal covering or raceway at least 4
inches for voltages over 10,000; 3 inches for voltages over 5,000 but
not exceeding 10,000; and 2 inches for voltages of 5,000 or less. In
dry locations the insulation shall extend beyond the end of the metal
covering or raceways not less than 22 inches for voltages over 10,000;
2 inches for voltages over 5,000 but not exceeding 10,000; and 12 inches
for voltages of 5,000 or less. For conductors at grounded midpoint
terminals, no spacing is required. No more than 20 feet of cable from a
single transformer shall be run in metal raceway where the potential
between the cable and the raceway is more than 5,000 volts.
- 23
(B) TRANSFORMERS. Transformers shall comply with the following;
1. VOLTAGE. The transformer secondary open - circuit voltage shall not
exceed 15,000 volts with an allowance on test or 1000 volts additional.
In end - grounded transformers the secondary, openrcircuit voltage shall
not exceed 7,500 volts with an allowance on test of 500 volts additional.
2. TYPE. Transformers shall be of a type approved for the purpose and
shall be limited in rating to a maximum of 4500 volt- amperes. Open core-
and -coil type transformers shall be limited to 4,000 volts with an allow-
ance on test of 500 volts. Transformers for outline lighting installations
shall have secondary current ratings not in excess of 30 milliamperes un-
less they and all wiring connected to them are installed in accordance with
the provisions for electric discharge lighting of the same voltage.
3. EXPOSED TO WEATHER. Transformers used out -doors shall be of the
weatherproof type or shall be enclosed in a separate metal box.
4. TRANSFORMER SECONDARY CONNECTIONS. The high- voltage windings of
transformers shall not be connected in parallel; and shall not be connected
in series, except that two transformers each having one end of its high -
voltage winding connected to the metal enclosure in series to form the
equivalent of a midpoint grounded transformer. The grounded ends shall be
connected by insulated conductors not smaller than No. 14.
5. ACCESSIBILITY. Transformers shall be accessible.
(C) TUBING. Electric discharge tubing shall conform to the following;
1. DESIGN. The tubing shall be of such length and design as not to cause
a continuous over - voltage on the transformer.
2. SUPPORT. Tubing shall be adequately supported on non - combustible, non-
absorptive supports. Tubing supports should, if practicable, be adjustable.
3. CONTACT WITH FLAMMABLE MATERIAL AND OTHER SURFACES. The tubing shall
be free from contact with flammable material and shall be located where
24 -
not normally exposed to mechanical injury. If operating in excess of
7,500 volts, the tubing shall be supported on non - combustible, non- absorp-
tive, insulating supports which maintain a spacing of not less than 1/4
inch between the tubing and the nearest surface.
(D) TERMINALS AND RECEPTACLES F0.R ELEC%RIC DISCHARGE TUBING. Terminals and
receptacles for electric discharge tubing shall comply with the following;
1. TERMINALS. The terminals of the tubing shall be inaccessible to un-
qualified persons and isolated from combustible material and grounded
metal or shall be enclosed. If enclosed they shall be separated from
grounded metal and combustible material by non - combustible, non- absorptive,
insulating material approved for the purpose or by 1z inches of air.
Terminals shall be relieved from stress by the independent support of the
tubing.
2. `TUBE CONNECTIONS OIZLER THAN WITH RECEPTACLES. If tubes do not term-
inate in receptacles designed for the purpose, all live parts of tube
terminals and conductors shall be so supported as to maintain a separation
of at least 11 inches between conductors or between conductors and any
grounded metal.
3. RECEPTACLES, Electrode receptacles for the tubing shall be of non-
combustible non - absorptive insulating material approved for the purpose.
4. RECEPTACLES AND BUSHING SEALS. A flexible, non- conducting seal may
be used to close the opening between the tubing and the receptacle or
bushing against the entrance of dust or moisture. This seal shall not be
in contact with grounded conductive material and shall not be depended
upon for the insulation of the tubing.
5. ENCLOSURES OF METAL. Metal enclosures for electrodes shall be of not
less than No. 24 USS gauge (.0239 inch) sheet metal.
6. ENCLOSURES OF INSULATING MATERIAL. Enclosures of insulating material
- 25 -
shall be non- combustible,.non- absorptive and approved for the voltage of
the circuit.
(E) SWITCHES ON DOORS. Doors or covers giving access to uninsulated parts of
outline lighting exceeding 600 volts and accessible to the general public,
either be provided with interlock switches which on the opening of the doors
or covers disconnect the primary circuit, or shall be so fastened that the use
of other than ordinary tools will be necessary to open them.
(F) ENCLOSURES. Enclosures for outline lighting shall conform to the follow-
ing;
1. CONDUCTORS AND TERM MU S. Cabinets and outline troughs shall have
conductors and terminals, except the supply leads, enclosed.
2. CUTOUTS, FLASHERS, ETC,, Cutouts, flashers and similar devices shall
be enclosed in metal boxes the doors of which shall be arranged so that
they can be opened without removing obstructions or finished parts of the
enclosure.
3. ENCLOSURES EXPOSED TO WEATHER. Enclosures for outside use shall be
weatherproof and shall have an ample number of drain holes, each not
larger than V2 inch or smaller than V4 inch.
4. MATERIAL. Outline lighting shall be constructed of metal or other
non - combustible material.
5. STRENGTH. Enclosures shall have ample strength and rigidity.
6. THICKNESS OF METAL, Sheet copper shall be at least 20 ounce (0.028
inch). Sheet steel may be of No. 28 USS gauge (.0149 inch) except that
for outline lighting sheet steel shall be of No. 24 USS gauge (.0239 inch)}
unless ribbed, corrugated or embossed over its entire surface, when it
may be of No. 26 USS gauge (.0179 inch).
NEON GAS WINDOW SIGNS (INSIDE);
SECTION 18.
- 26 -
The wiring system supplying the primary and secondary current to trans-
formers and associated equipment shall be by one of the recognized metallic
wiring methods.
(A) TRANSFORMERS. Transformers shall be of types with no exposed terminals,
shall be marked with the maker's name, input rating and open circuit high ten-
sion voltage. The marking shall be visible for inspection after installation.
Where the transformer is located above the ceiling of the window, the high
tension cable shall be in conduit and the conduit locked into the transformer
enclosure.
Except by special permission, transformers shall be of types where ratings
do not exceed 30 milliamperes secondary or 450 volt ampere primary, nor exceed-
ing 15,000 volts open circuit secondary with an additional 1000 volts for test.
Where special permission has been obtained for installations exceeding 30
milliamperes, all tube electrodes shall be enclosed and door switches installed
on all enclosures which, by opening, will break the primary circuit supply to
the transformers and vacuum tube terminals.
The capacity of an overcurrent device protecting one or more transformers
shall be limited to 15 amperes at 125 volts.
(B) GAS TUBING. The tubing shall be of such a length and design as not to
cause a continuous overvoltage on the transformer. It shall be free from
contact with flammable material and for circuit voltages exceeding 7500, from
metal. It shall not be unduly exposed to mechanical injury.
The supports for the tubing where needed, shall be of the insulated type
of non - absorptive, non - combustible material and preferably adjustable. They
shall maintain the tubing not less than 1/4 inch from metal parts and this
spacing shall be maintained where the tubing passes through metal barriers,
(C) ELECTRODES. The tube terminals shall comply with one of the following;
1. Project within an enclosure and be separated from grounded metal by
- 27 -
a minimum of 12 inches of air or by an approved non - absorptive non- combust-
ible insulating bushing or receptacle suitable for the voltage.
2. In the exposed type when not easily accessible hanging free in air
and not less than lg inches from conducting or combustible material shall -
be enclosed by an approved sleeve of non - conductive and non - breakable type.
This sleeve shall overlap all live parts by at least 11 inches and shall
be of a type which will afford the protection intended of it and approved
for the purpose.
(D) CONTROL. Signs shall be controlled by externally operable switches which
shall disconnect all ungrounded conductors. Switches shall be within sight of
the installation and shall have a capacity not less than twice the current
rating of the transformers.
(E) WIRING ABOVE 600 vows.
1. Conductors for circuits operating at a potential in excess of 600
volts shall be of a type approved for the purpose, suitable for the voltage
involved and shall be not smaller than No. 14 and shall, if within a sign
or other enclosure, be supported on insulating supports placed not more
than two feet apart which separate the wires at least 2 inches from each
other and from conducting materials.
2. Conductors within a sign shall have rubber compound or other approved
insulation; provided that where conductors are entirely enclosed within
a sign enclosure and the enclosure cannot be opened without breaking the
primary circuit, they may be bare.
3. Sharp bends in the conductors shall be avoided.
4. Conductors shall be installed in conduit, electrical metallic tubing
or armored cable. Approved insulating bushings shall be used where the
gas tube cable enters or leaves the conduit or electrical metallic tubing.
5. Where conductors hang freely in air away from combustible or conducting
- 28 -
SECTION 19
Whenever the word "Approved" is mentioned in this ordinance, such word
shall mean "approval by the Chief Electrical Inspector of the City of South Bend ".
material, as in some window displays, and where not subject to mechanical
• injury they need not be otherwise protected.
SECTION 39.- ;(U
Any person, firm or corporation who shall violate any of the pro-
visions of this Ordinance shall be guilty of a misdeameanor and upon
conviction hereof shall be punished by a fine not to exceed Three Hundred
($300.00) Dollars or by imprisonment not to exceed thirty (30) days, or
both, and each day such violation shall continue shall be deemed a
separate and distinct offense.
SECTION �m- :L )
This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after
its passage by the Common Council, approval by the Mayor, and the flul-=
fillment of all statutory requirements relating thereto.
1st & 2rd fEfiC!t�@ l /�l /�/D
COir' UTEE OF THE WHU -1
SPUBLIC HEARING
Jrd READING
NOT Al PWJVEI) - 29 -
REFEARED
-PASSED 9