Lighting Regulations in Burkburnett, Texas: Balancing History and Modern Needs

Quick Reference Guide

• Sign Illumination Limits: Maximum brightness of 0.3 footcandles above ambient light at property line
• Residential Area Restrictions: Illuminated signs must shut off between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
• Light Spillover: No more than 0.1 footcandles at any residential property line
• Conservation Requirement: Users must turn off lights when not in use
• Prohibited Features: No flashing, intermittent, or moving lights; no rotating beams or flashing beacons

Introduction: Burkburnett's Unique Character

Founded in the early 20th century and named at the suggestion of President Theodore Roosevelt, Burkburnett has a rich heritage deeply tied to the oil boom era. The town's rapid growth during this period even inspired the 1940 film "Boom Town," starring Clark Gable and Spencer Tracy, which celebrated Burkburnett's reputation as "Boomtown, USA."

Today, with a population of approximately 10,145 residents spread across 9.5 square miles, Burkburnett balances preserving its historical identity while meeting modern needs. This balance is reflected in the town's approach to lighting regulations, which aim to maintain community character while ensuring safety and functionality.

The establishment of nearby Sheppard Air Force Base in 1941 further shaped the town's development, contributing to its growth and diversification. Burkburnett's lighting regulations acknowledge both this history and the community's contemporary needs.

Sign Illumination Requirements

Permitted Lighting Types

Burkburnett allows several types of sign illumination, each with specific requirements:

• Neon Lighting: Exposed neon tubing may be used alongside other materials to emphasize sign copy
• Fluorescent and Incandescent: Must be diffused by translucent glass or plastic
• Projected Light: Must be indirect spotlight or gooseneck-down light

Illumination Specifications

When illuminating signs, property owners must adhere to precise technical requirements:

• Maximum Brightness: No more than 0.3 footcandles above ambient light conditions at the property line
• Measurement Method: Readings taken in footcandles with a meter sensor in horizontal position, approximately three feet above grade
• Light Direction: External lighting fixtures must not cast light or glare in any direction other than on sign elements
• Even Distribution: Lighting must provide even illumination without hot spots or dark areas

Residential Area Restrictions

Signs in residential zones face additional limitations:

• Automatic Shut-off Required: Illuminated signs must include an automatic shut-off mechanism
• Operating Hours: Signs must be turned off between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Light Trespass and Spillover Regulations

Preventing Neighborhood Light Pollution

Burkburnett's regulations specifically address light trespass to protect residential areas:

• Maximum Spillover: No sign or associated luminaire shall create light spillover of more than 0.1 footcandles at any property line within or bounding a residential use or district
• Shielding Requirements: Light sources, whether internal or external, must be shielded from view
• Directed Illumination: Light intensity must be directed away from public right-of-way or residential property boundaries
• Ground-mounted Lighting: External flood lighting must be shielded and properly placed to prevent direct visibility to passing motorists

Traffic Safety Considerations

The regulations also prioritize traffic safety:

• Hazard Prevention: Artificial light used with any sign must not be directed or reflected onto structures or constitute a hazard to vehicle operation
• Prohibited Features: No rotating beam or flashing beacon lights are permitted on any sign or sign structure

Electrical Installation Requirements

Infrastructure Specifications

For sign lighting installations, several technical requirements apply:

• Code Compliance: Electronic changeable copy signs must comply with all applicable provisions of the city's electrical code
• Underground Connections: All electrical connections to signs must be placed underground
• Concealment Requirements: Electrical transformer boxes and raceways must be concealed from public view
• Raceway Limitations: If raceways cannot be mounted internally behind exterior walls, exposed metal surfaces must match the background wall or be integrated into the overall sign design
• Size Restrictions: Raceways must never extend in width or height beyond the area of the sign's lettering or graphics

Prohibited Lighting Features

The following lighting elements are explicitly prohibited in Burkburnett:

• Dynamic Effects: No flashing, intermittent, or moving lights
• Enhanced Features: No audio, pyrotechnic, or blue casting (Bluetooth advertising) components
• Projection Techniques: Static images projected upon stationary objects are not permitted
• Rotating Elements: No rotating beam or flashing beacon lights on any sign or structure

General Lighting Requirements

Maintenance and Conservation

Beyond sign regulations, Burkburnett has limited general lighting requirements:

• Usage Responsibility: Users are responsible for turning off lights upon completion of their use
• Facility Maintenance: All lighting used in aquatic facilities must be maintained in a good state of repair
• Property Protection: It's unlawful to injure, tamper with, break, destroy or deface any lamp post, electric line or pole, or electrical lamp

Special Circumstance: Halloween Lighting

One unique lighting regulation applies specifically to registered sex offenders:

• On October 30 and 31 (or any other date set for trick-or-treaters) between 4:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m., registered sex offenders may not leave exterior porch lights on or otherwise invite trick-or-treaters

Supporting Burkburnett's Lighting Vision

Bock Lighting shares Burkburnett's commitment to balancing historical character with modern needs. As a manufacturer with roots dating back to 1918, we understand the importance of lighting that enhances community identity while meeting practical requirements.

Our experience with communities across the country has taught us that effective lighting solutions respect local regulations while contributing to the unique character of each town. For a community like Burkburnett, with its rich oil boom heritage and commitment to managed growth, thoughtful lighting plays a crucial role in preserving historical identity.

Bock Lighting's approach emphasizes sustainability, responsible lighting practices, and solutions that align with community values. We believe in serving as a resource for education about lighting regulations and best practices that respect Burkburnett's distinctive character.

Conclusion

Burkburnett's lighting regulations, while primarily focused on sign illumination, reflect the community's priorities: preserving the town's unique character, ensuring public safety, and preventing light pollution. These guidelines help maintain the balance between modern needs and respect for the town's historical identity.

Property owners should pay particular attention to light trespass requirements, especially near residential areas, and ensure all illuminated signs meet the specific technical requirements outlined in the code. By following these regulations, residents and businesses contribute to Burkburnett's ongoing story as a community that honors its past while embracing its future.