The Purpose of this ordinance is to allow city buildings and businesses within the municipality to keep lights on for the security purposes and to display holiday decoration, while exempting them form other lighting regulations enforced in various zoning districts.

For the purposes of this ordinance, the following definitions shall apply: 1. City Buildings: Buildings, properties, and land owned or leased by the City of Mendon and used for municipal purposes. 2. Businesses: Commercial establishments within the municipal boundaries of Mendon City. 3. Holiday Decorations: Temporary lighting displays are installed to celebrate recognized holidays or other times of local significance.

City buildings and businesses are permitted to leave exterior lights on during nighttime hours for the purpose of enhancing security. This lighting shall be designed and positioned to reasonably minimize glare and light trespass onto adjacent properties.

A. City buildings and businesses may install and operate temporary holiday lighting displays. B. These displays may be operational for up to 60 calendar days. C. These displays are exempt from any other municipal lighting restrictions during this period.

City buildings and businesses are hereby exempt from the following municipal lighting regulations: A. Any ordinances or codes regulating the hours of operation for outdoor lighting. B. Restrictions on the brightness or type of lights used, except as noted in Section 16.06 to prevent glare and light trespass. C. Any other lighting restrictions specific to residential, business, industrial and agricultural zones within the municipality.

This ordinance does not exempt city buildings and businesses from complying with other applicable federal, state or local laws and regulations regarding electrical and structural safety.

Violations of this chapter may be enforced by any means available to Mendon City including by abatement, civil citation or criminal prosecution. a. Criminal Penalty. Violations of this chapter shall constitute a class “C” misdemeanor. Each day that the violation continues shall constitute a sperate offense. b. Civil Penalty. The maximum civil penalty and fine that may be imposed by the city for a violation of this chapter shall not exceed the amount established by the state law for a class “C” misdemeanor. Each day a civil violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.