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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – July 9, 2014 12 maximum lumen levels to ensure that these requirements conform with industry standards and are not overly restrictive. Height Limits Associate Planner Bachler stated that a recommended maximum height limit of 35 feet is included in Ordinance 2014-006. This requirement would apply to light poles as well as light fixtures mounted to the exterior of a building. For properties abutting residential uses, within 50 feet of the property line light fixtures could be no more than 20 feet in height in order to reduce light trespass and glare. A similar provision is not included for when an abutting property is industrial or commercial. These uses often have shared or adjoining parking facilities and a more restrictive height limit within 50 feet of the property line may result in less efficient use of lighting for parking areas. Exceptions Associate Planner Bachler reported that certain types of lights would be excluded from the City’s exterior lighting standards due to their temporary nature or the City not having regulatory authority. Specific types of temporary lights that would not need to conform to these standards include exterior holiday lighting displays and lighting for sporting events. Federal and state agencies are often required to use certain types of lighting for public safety purposes, and these lights would also be exempted. A final exception is for the illumination of the national or state flag. When the national flag is kept up at night, federal law requires that it be illuminated. Associate Planner Bachler requested that the Commission review the draft Ordinance and provide staff with feedback on how to proceed. Chair Larson opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Chair Larson questioned if up-lighting on flags could be limited in commercial areas, as car dealerships often have numerous flags. Associate Planner Bachler indicated that this would be difficult to regulate as there were federal mandates that require the national flag to be illuminated if displayed at night. Commissioner Holewa asked if the City had the equipment to measure foot candles and questioned where the measurements were taken. Associate Planner Bachler stated that the City did not have the capability to take these measurements. He reported that measurements were taken at the surface of the ground. Discussion ensured regarding the blue LED lighting used on the existing Holiday gas station monument sign. Chair Larson provided comment on ornamental lighting and asked if the globes provided any “shielding”.