Methuen, MA Outdoor Lighting: Billboard Lighting (2026)

Sign lighting in the City of Methuen is governed by Article VII of the Methuen Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, and a billboard is a sign for these purposes. Section 7.4C(2) requires all illumination of signs to be arranged so it prevents glare onto any portion of any public way or into any lot used or zoned for residence. Section 7.4C(3) bars illumination of any sign between 12:00 midnight and 6:00 a.m., with two exceptions: signs of businesses legally carrying on business at other times, which can be lit while the business is open to receive the public, and signs of medical doctors at their residence, which can be lit at any time.

Section 7.4E(3) deals with the lamps themselves. The full-shielding rule for luminaires rated at more than 2,000 lumens in § 7.4E(1) does not apply to a luminaire intended solely to illuminate a freestanding sign or the walls of a building, but that luminaire must be shielded so its direct light is confined to the surface of the sign or building. Under § 7.4C(1), signs that move or flash, traveling light or animated signs, and beacons and flashing devices are prohibited, except Christmas lights between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.

Billboards carry extra tests. The Article II definition of a billboard says no off-premises billboard can be erected unless the height, setback and illumination requirements are met and a permit has been granted under MGL c. 93, §§ 29 through 33. The special permit criterion in § 11.22D(3) requires the applicant to demonstrate that the billboard does not cause an adverse shadow or flicker on adjacent properties. Any sign that contains electrical devices needs prior written approval from the City Electrical Commissioner after a physical inspection, under § 7.3D(2).