OAR 734-060-0190: Digital or LED Variable Message Signs Other than Outdoor Advertising Signs

This rule is enacted pursuant to ORS 377.720(3) and (4) regarding signs other than Outdoor Advertising Signs that utilize digital or LED electronic message or variable message technology and are visible to a state highway. (1) By statute, all signs visible to state highways are subject to state sign prohibited sign and safety regulations. No signs visible to a state highway, other than official traffic control signals or devices, may include moving or rotating parts or lights. Signs may not be made to resemble an official traffic signal or device and they may not have lights that project onto the roadway or impede the sight of traveling motorist. (2) In interpreting ORS 377.715 and 377.720, signs visible to a state highway, other than official traffic control signals or devices, may not: (a) Be illuminated by flashing lights or a light that varies in intensity; (b) Have a display surface that creates the appearance of movement; (c) May not operate at a brightness level of more than 0.3 foot-candles over ambient light, nor intensity greater than the luminance indicated in the table 1, as measured perpendicular to the face of the billboard at the indicated measurement distance for a designated sign dimension: [Table not included. See ED. NOTE.] (3) Newly constructed signs visible to a state highway, other than official traffic control signals or devices, must be: (a) Equipped with a light sensor that automatically adjusts the intensity of the sign illumination according to the amount of ambient light, and; (b) Designed to freeze the display in one static position, display a full black screen or turn off in the event of a malfunction. [ED. NOTE: Tables referenced are available from the agency.] [ED. NOTE: To view attachments referenced in rule text, click here to view rule.]