HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 948ORDINANCE NO. 948
BEING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 853, CITY CODE OF
1977, PERTAINING TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A MORE RESTRICTIVE
SIGN CODE
The City Council of the City of Columbia Heights does ordain:
Section 1: Sections 9.103(66) through 9.103(72), inclusive, of Ordinance No. 853, City
Code of 1977, passed June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"9.103(66) - Si .~n-Outdoor: Any object which indicates a name, identification,
description, display or illustration which is affixed to or re-
presented directly or indirectly upon a building, structure, or
piece of land and which directs attention to an object, product,
place, activity, person, institution, organization or business.
However, a "Sign" for application of this Ordinance shall not
include any display of official court or public office notices
or highway directional signs.
9.103(67) - Sign-Nameplate: A sign indicating the name and address of a
building or the name of a business or occupant therein.
9.103(68) -~ign-Billboard: A sign which directs attention to a business,
commodity, service or entertainment not exclusively related to
the premises where such sign is located or to which it is af-
fixed.
9.103(69) - Sign-Business: A sign which directs attention to a business or
profession conducted or to a commodity, service, or entertain-
ment sold or offered on the premises on which such sign is lo-
cated or to which it is affixed.
9.103(70) - Sign-Flashing: Any illuminated sign on which the artificial
light is not maintained stationary or constant in intensity
and color during which time such sign is in use.
9.103(71) - Sign-Gross Area Of: Shall be the entire area within a single
continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme limits of such sign,
and in no case, passing through or between any adjacent ele-
ments of same. However, such perimeter shall not include any
structural elements lying outside of such sign and not forming
an integral part of the display.
9.103(72) - Sign-Illuminated: Any sign which has character~, letters, fi-
gures, designs, or outline illuminated by electric lights or
luminous tubes as a part of the sign proper."
are herewith repealed. The City Attorney is herewith authorized to renumber
the Zoning Code (Article I of Chapter 9) of the City Code of 1977 to reflect
such change.
Section 2: Sections 9.116(7) through 9.116(13), inclusive, of Ordinance No. 853, .City
Code of 1977, passed June 21,-1977, which read as follows, to-wit:
"9. 116 (7)
Signs~ Advertising Lights and Devices Located Outside of' Bulldings
(a)
General Provisions: Signs, advertising lights and devices shall
be g~verned by the following pro¥isions and such other regulations
as herein stated.
(b)
Definition of Sign%: See Sections 9.103(66) through 9.103(70).
(c)
(d)
This Ordinance shall not apply to any display of directional signs,
street name signs or other slgns which have'received City Council
approval and erection authorized by the City, or to any on-site
private instfuctlonal signs which are so located and intended to
aid persons who are on the private parcel of land provided that
such instructlonal signs shall not exceed an area of ~ square feet.
A sign'is a structure or a part of a structure for the purpose of
applying yard and height regulations.
(e)
Signs are prohibited withln the public right-of-way except
that the City Council may grant a conditional permit to locate
signs and decorations on or within the rlght-of-way for a specified
time not to exceed sixty (60) days and subject to the laws'of
Hinnesota.
(f)
Signs and parts of the superstructure may extend into the
required yards or publlc right-of-way a distance not in excess of
eighteen (18) inches when fiat against the buildlng.
Illuminated signs or devices giving off an intermittent, steady
or rotating beam comprising a col]ection or concentration of
rays of light shall not be permitted in any district.
(h)
Illuminated flashing signs shall not be permitted.
(i)
For purpose of selling or leasing property, in any district, a
sign not in excess of twenty-five (25) square feet pew surface
may be placed within the front yard of such property to be sold or
leased. Such signs shall not be less than fifteen (15) feet
from the right-of-way line unless flat against the structure.
For the purpose of selling or promoting a residential project
of six (6) or more dwelling units, a commercial area of three (3)
acres or more or an industrial area of ten (10) acres or more,
one sign not to exceed two-hundred and forty (240) feet of
advertising surface may be erected upon the project site, and be
maintained until 90[ of the units have been rented or leased. At
such time, the sign shall be removed.
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(k)
(1) .
(o)
Signs existing on the effective date of this Ordinancev~lch do
not conform to the regulations set forth in the Ordinance are ·
non-conforming use.
The area within the frame shall be used to calculate the square
footage except that width of a frame exceeding twelve (12)
Inches shall constitute advertising space, or should such letters
or graphics be mounted dlrectly on a wall or fascia or in such ·
way as to be without a frame, the dimensions for calculatlng the
square footage shall be the area extending six (6) Inches beyond
the periphery formed around such letters or graphics In a plane
figure, bound by straight lines cqnnecting the outer most points
thereof, and each surface utilized to display a message or to
attract attention shall be measured as a separate sign. ~ny
symbols, flags, pictures, wording, figures or other forms of graphics
painted on or attached to windows, walks, awnings, free-standing
s tructure~.suspended by bal]oons or kites or on persons, animals
or vehlcles shall be considered as a slgn.
The top of any such sign, including its superstructure of any
shall be no higher than the roof of the building to which such
sign may be attached.
Signs including any superstructure, erected free of any buildlng
shall not exceed the permitte~ height for the district In which
located and in no instance shall such sign height exceed 35 feet.
Signs temporarily located for the purpose of promoting a person,
office, or issue to be voted on shall not exceed the size of
3' x h'. Temporary signs shall not be placed on any property
sooner than sixty (60) days before said electlon and must be
removed no later than two gays after.
9.116 (.8)
Signs in "R" Districts
Within the "R" District the following signs are permitted:
One (1) nameplate sign for each dwelling and such sign shall
not exceed one (I) square foot in area per surface, and no
sign shall be so constructed as to have more than two surfaces
for advertising purpose.
(b)
One (1) double faced nameplate slgn for each dwelling group of
three (3) or more units, and such sign shall not exce:d (6) ~quarc
feet in area per surface.
(c)
One (l) double faced nameplate sign for each permitted use or
use by conditional permit other than residentlal and such sign
shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet in area per surface.
(d)
Symbols, statues , sculptures and integrated architectural features
on non-residential buildings may be illumlnated by flood lights
provided the direct source of light is not visible from the public
right-of-way or adjacent residential-district.
-3-
9.116(9)
Signs in the "LB" District
Within the LB District nameplate signs and business signs are permitted
subject to the followlng regulat|ons:
Within the LB District the aggregate square footage of advertising
space per lot shall not exceed the sum of two (2) square feet for
each front foot of building fronting on a public right-of-way, plus
one (1) square foot for each front foot of buildlng allocated to
non-residential use. No individual sign shal! exceed fifty (50)
square feet of area per surface.
9.116 (10)
Signs in the "CBD" District
Within the CBD District nameplate signs, advertising signs and business
signs are permitted subject to the following regulations:
(a)
(b)
The.aggregate square footage of advertising space per lot shall not
exceed the sum of three (3) square feet for each front foot of
building plus one (!) square foot for each front foot of building
siding on a street which has a width of flfty (50) feet.
No individual sign shall exceed three hundred (300) square feet
of area per surface.
9.116(11)
Signs in the "RB" and "GB" District
Within the RB-GB District, nameplate, business and advertising signs are
permitted subject to the following:
(a) The aggregate square footage of slgn space per lot sha1~ not
exceed the sum of two (2) square feet per front foot of building,
.plus one (1) square foot for each front foot of lot not occupied
be such building which fronts on a public right-of-way fifty (50)
feet or more in width. The least width of a lot for purposes of
this Ordinance shall be the front. No individual sign surface
shall exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area, nor shall
two (2) or more signs be so arranged and integrated as to Gause
an advertising surface over one hundred and fifty (150) square
feet. The one exception is that when an advertising sign located
as the principal use of the site, it may be up to six hundred (600)
square feet with permitted aggregate square feet having fifteen
(15) square feet per front foot of lot.
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9. ll6 (12)
Signs in the "1" Use District
Within the "1" Use District, nameplate signs, business signs and advertising
signs shal! be permitted subject to the following regulations:
The aggregate square footage of sign space per 1or shall not
exceed the sum of four (4) square feet per front of building,
plus one (!) square foot per front foot of property not occupied
by a building. No individual sign surface shal! exceed two
hundred and fifty (250) square feet except advertising signs.
Advertising signs permitted as an accessory use shal! not exceed
two hundred and fifty (250) square feet of surface.
9. 116 (13)
Replacement Signs
(a)
A sign on any parcel that is non-conforming under Ordinance No. 818 be-
cause of its size may he replaced ~rlthfn a period of three (3) months
after the destruction of such sign by another non-conforming sign so long
as the replacement sign:
i)
decreases the aggregate square footage of sign space on the
lot or parcel on which such sign is located;
ii) does not increase the size of any individual sign surface; and
iii) does not increase the nurser of signs or sign surfaces on the lot
or parcel.
(b)
Before any permit is granted to an applicant for a sign permit
allowable pursuant only to this Section 9.116(13), the applicant
shall be required to sign the following statement as part of his
.application:
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9.116(13) - continued
I have been advised that the Council of the City of Coltmbia
Heights is presently considering the adoption of an Ordinance
vhich may require the removal of the signwhich ! propose to
erect within a period not to exceed three (3) years. Should
the City Council pass an Ordinance requiring such removal, !
agree to remove the sign in accordance with that Ordinance.
Applicant
(c)
(d)
No person, firm or corporation shall construct or erect a sign in
the City of Columbia Heights without having first obtained a per-
m~t therefor. No person, firm'or corporation shall permit a sign
to exist on property o~ned, occupied, or used by that person, firm
or corporation without having first obtained a permit for such sign.
The permit fee for the construction of signs ~ay be set by Resolu-
tion of the City Council and may vary according to the size thereof.
are herewith repealed.
Section 3:
Section 9.117A of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed June 21,
1977, which is currently reserved, shall hereafter read as follows, to-
wit:
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SECTION 17A
9.117A(1)
SIGNS, ADVERTISING LIGHTS AND DEVICES LOCATED
OUTSIDE OF BUILDING OR STRUCTURE
Definitions
The following words and terms, whenever they occur in this Ordinance,
are defined as follows:
(a) Alteration: A change of copy area, size, or location exclusive
of routine maintenance, painting or change of the copy itself.
Animated Sign: A sign which includes action or motion effected
through mechanical or electrical means or wind, exclusive of
flashing, changing and indexing signs.
(c) Area Identification Sign: A sign identifying a shopping center or
multiple dwelling unit.
(d) Banner~ Flag or Pennant: A sign made of a flexible material, such
as cloth, paper, or plastic, however and wherever affixed.
(e)
Billboard: A non-accessory sign for the purpose of advertising a
product, event, person, subject or service not entirely or directly
related to the premises on which said sign is located, including
a sign for the purpose of advertising the availability for rental
or sale of the sign itself.
(f)
Building Facade: That portion of any exterior elevation of a
building extending from grade to the top of the parapet wall or
eaves and the entire width of the building elevation.
(g)
Business Frontage: The property lines or lease lines at the front
of the building in which the business is located or the location
of the main public entrance of said building.
(h)
Canopy, Awning or Marquee: A projection or extension of a structure,
building, or place of assembly, erected in such a manner as to pro-
vide a shelter or cover over the approach to any entrance of such
structure, building, or place of assembly.
(i)
Canopy, Awning or Marquee Sign: A sign suspended from or forming
part of the canopy, awning, or marquee which does not extend
horizontally beyond such canopy, awning or marquee.
(j)
Changeable Copy Sign: A sign employing detachable copy, letters or
symbols which may be altered, substituted or rearranged to convey
varying messages, regardlesg of method of attachmant.
(k)
Changing Sign: A sign which displays copy changes shown on the
same lamp bank, such as an electronically or electrically controlled
public service, time and temperature sign, message center or reader-
board.
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(1)
(m)
(n)
(o)
(p)
(q)
(r)
(s)
(t)
(u)
(v)
(w)
(x)
(Y)
(z)
Color: Any hue or combination of values of these; black and white
shall not be considered colors.
Commercial Use: A use of land, building or structure intended,
designed or arranged for a business, occupation, trade, or pro-
fession, including entertainment, services or sale of goods.
Copy: The letters, symbols, or other representations used on a
sign to convey a message.
Copy Area: That portion of the sign which contains the copy and to
which the copy is applied.
Council: The Columbia Heights City Council.
Curb Line: The line at the face of the curb nearest the street or
roadway. In the absence of a curb, the curb line shall be estab-
lished by the City Engineer.
Directional Sign: An on-premise sign designed to guide or direct
pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
District: The zoning districts as designated on the Official
Zoning Map of the City of Columbia Heights and described in the
Zoning Code.
Electri~ Sign: A sign which uses electrical wiring on, in or meat
such sign to effect movement and/or illumination, inclusive of
illuminated signs as defined below.
Facia or Wall Si~n: An identification sign affixed to or painted
on the wall of a building or structure with the exposed face of
the sign in a plane parallel to the plane of said wall.
Flashing Sign: A sign which contains flashing lights or exhibits
discernable and purposefnl changes in light intensity or color.
Free-Standing Sign: A permanent sign which is not affixed to any
part of a building or structure and which is supported by upright
brace(s) or post(s) placed in the ground.
Grade: The elevation or level of the street closest to the sign to
which reference is made, measured at the street's centerline.
Graphics: An illustration or rendering which is not for an adver-
tising purpose, and which is applied directly to a building or
structure.
Identification Sign: A sign which is limited to the name, address,
and number of a building, structure, institution, or person in
addition to the activity carried on in the building, structure or
institution, or the occupation of the person.
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(aa)
(bb)
(cc)
(dd)
(ee)
(ff)
(gg)
(hh)
(ii)
(j j)
(kk)
(11)
(nn)
(oo)
(PP)
Illuminated Sign: A sign designed to give forth or reflect any
artificial light, either directly from a source of light incor-
porated in or connected with such sign, or indirectly from an
artificial source in the immediate proximity thereof.
Incidental Sign: A small sign less than two (2) square feet in area
of a noncommercial nature, intended primarily for the convenience
of the public, including signs designating rest areas and public
telephones.
Institution: A church, school, or other eleemosynary organization.
Institutional Sign: A sign used by an institution.
Lane: A public thoroughfare or way which affords a purely secondary
means of access to a lot at the side or rear.
Person: A firm, association, organization, partnership, trust,
company, or corporation as well as an individual.
Political Sign: A sign which states the name, slogan, and/or
picture of an individual seeking election to a public office, or
which pertains to a public election or referendum, or which relates
to or advocates political views or policies.
Portable .Sign: A sign which is not permanently attached to the
ground or to a building or structure.
P~imary Use: The main use of land, buildings or structures.
Projecting Sign: A sign which extends outward from the wall of a
building or structure more than fifteen inches (15"), and is
Supported by or suspended from such wall.
Public Right of Way: The area on or above a public sidewalk, alley
or street.
Real Estate Sign: A sign offering land and/or buildings for sale,
lease or rental, located on such property.
Residential Use Building: A dwelling, boarding, lodging, rooming,
fraternity or sorority house, or a dormitory unit.
Revolving Si~n: A sign, any part of which turns, rotates, or
revolves.
Roof Line: The uppermost line of the roof of a building or, in
the case of an extended facade, the uppermost height of said facade.
Roof Sign: A sign which is painted on, affixed to, or erected upon
the roof or parapet of a building or structure of which any portion
is situated on or above the roof level of such building or structure
and is wholly or partially supported by said building or structure.
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(qq)
(rr)
(ss)
(tt)
(uu)
(vv)
(ww)
(xx)
Shopping Cen~er: A group of four (4) or more commercial uses which
has either common management or ownership, or has a contiguous gross
retail area of twenty thousand (20,000) square feet or more.
Sign: A structure, device, advertisement, advertising device or
visual representation intended to advertise, identify or communicate
information to attract the attention of the public for any purpose
and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing. A sign
includes any symbols, letters, figures, graphics, or forms painted
or otherwise affixed to a building or structure intended to attract
the attention of the public for any purpose. This definition in-
cludes a structural or non-structural device which borders, illumi-
nates, animates or projects the visual representation.
(t)
Sign Area: The entire area within a single continuous peri-
meter enclosing the extreme limits of such sign. Such peri-
meter shall in no case pass through or between any adjacent
element of such sign. In the case of a sign designed with
more than one exterior surface, the area shall be computed as
including only the maximum single display surface which is
visible from any ground position at one time. The supports,
uprights, or structures on which any sign is supported, which
do not form an integral part of the display are not included
in the sign area.
(ii)
Sign, ._.Maximum Height of: Refers to the vertical distance
measured from the nearest finished grade to the top of such
a sign.
(iii)
Si~n~ Minimum Height Of: Shall refer to the vertical dis-
tance measured from the nearest finished grade to the lower
limit of such sign.
(iv)
Sign Structure: The structure which supports or is capable
of supporting any sign, including the framework, braces, up-
rights, and supports of such sign. Said definition shall
not include a building to which the sign is attached.
Street: A public highway, road or thoroughfare which affords the
principal means of access to adjacent lots.
Street Frontage: The linear frontage of a parcel of property
abutting a public street.
Temporary Sign: A sign, banner, pennant, valance, or advertising
device intended to be displayed for a limited period of time.
Time and Temperature Sign: A sign which display~ only time and
temperature information.
Wall Sign: See Facia or Wall Sign.
Wall Surface of Building: The total horizontal surface area of
the building face to which a sign is attached, including windows
and door areas, measured to the extreme outer limits of such wall
surface.
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9.117A(2)
9.117A(3)
(yy) Window Sign: A sign painted on, placed in, or affixed to any win-
dow, exclusive of merchandise on display.
Application
(a) Within the municipality, no sign shall hereafter be erected, placed,
altered, or moved unless in conformity with this Section.
(b)
Signs which are lawfully in existence and in use prior to and at
the time of the legal adoption of this Section may remain in use
even though they do not conform with the provisions of the Section
for five (5) years to the extent permissible under Section 9.104(3).
(c)
No sign lawfully in existence at the time of the adoption of this
Section may be rebuilt, reconstructed, or altered with the exception
of copy change unless in conformity with the provisions of this
Code.
(d)
A sign is a structure or part of a structure for the purpose of
applying yard and height requirements as required by Chapter 9,
Article I of this Code.
(e) Nothing in this Section shall relieve any person from complying
with any other provision of this Code.
Administration and Enforcement
(a) Administration: This Section shall be administered by the Zoning
Administrator.
(b)
Permits: Every person shall, before erecting, placing, rebuilding,
reconstructing, altering, or moving any sign, other than an inci-
dental sign, obtain from the Zoning Administrator a zoning sign
permit to do so as well as for the building permit required under
Section 6.201(2). Every application for a zoning sign permit
shall be accompanied by a plan or plans drawn to scale and including:
(i)
The dimensions of the sign and, where applicable, the dimensions
of the wall surface of the building to which it is to be
attached.
(ii) The maximum, and minimum height of the sign.
(iii)
The proposed location of the sign in relation to the face
of the building, in front of which or above which it is to
be erected.
(iv) The proposed location of the sign in relation to the bound-
aries of the lot upon which it is to be situated.
(v) The proposed technical means of illuminated, animated, or
changing signs.
(vi) A diagram or photograph of the face of the building to which
the sign is to be attached, if applicable.
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(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(vii) The name and address of the user of the sign and the location
of the sign.
(viii) The name and address of the proposed designer and/or maker
of the sign.
(ix) The name and address of the owner(s) of the property on which
the sign is located.
(x) The name and address of the person with superior possessory
interest in the real estate where the sign is to be located.
The following changes shall not require a zoning sign permit. These
exceptions shall not be construed as relieving the owner of the sign
from the responsibility for its proper erection and maintenance and
its compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance or any other
law or ordinance regulating the same.
(i)
The changing of the advertising copy or message of a painted
or printed sign. Except for theater marquees and changeable
copy signs specifically designed for the use of replaceable
copy, electric signs shall not be included in this exception.
(ii)
Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structure
or the changing of the advertising copy or message thereon,
unless a structural change is made.
A zoning sign permit shall become null and void if the work for
which the permit was issued has not been completed within one
year of its issuance, unless such permit is renewed upon a second
payment of the original fee within said one year period. No
zoning sign permit is required for renewal unless there would be
disparity from the initial plan.
Maintenance: Ail signs, including temporary signs, together with
all of their supports, braces, guys, and anchors, shall be kept
in good repair and in proper state of preservation, The display
surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted.
Every sign and the immediate surrounding premises shall be main-
tained by the owner or person in charge thereof in a safe, clean,
sanitary, and inoffensive condition, and free and clear of all
obnoxious substances, rubbish and weeds.
Inspection: Ail signs for which a permit is required shall be
subject to inspection by the Zoning Administrator. The Zoning
Administrator, or any other official of the municipality who may
be appointed by him is hereby authorized to enter upon any property
or premises to ascertain whether the provisions of thi~ Code are
being obeyed.
Notice to Zoning Administrator: The person having the superior
possessory interest in any property on which a sign is located
shall give notice to the Zoning Administrator of any change in
sign user, sign owner, or owner of the property on which the sign
is located within thirty (30) days of such change.
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(h) Enforcement:
(i)
It shall be unlawful for any person including but not limited
to sign owners, building owners, sign users, sign designers,
sign makers, and any person having a superior possessory in-
terest in the property on which the sign is located to erect,
place, rebuild, construct, alter, or move any sign or to do
any act contrary to or in a manner contrary to any direction,
instruction, specification, or provision contained in or adopted
by this Section or any notice lawfully given or posted pursuant
to the provisions of this Section or without any permit hereby
required or contrary to the conditions upon which any permit
has been issued pursuant to this Section; it is similarly un-
lawful for such person to refrain from doing or taking or to
fail to do or take any act, precaution, or maintenance required
to be done pursuant to this Section.
(ii)
Every person who violates any of the provisions of the Section,
or who causes, suffers, or permits any act or thing to be done
in contravention or in violation of any of the provisions of
this Section, or who neglects, or refrains from doing anything
required to be done by any of the provisions of this Section;
or who carries out or who suffers, causes, or permits to be
carried out any development in a manner prohibited by or con-
trary to any of the provisions of this Section or who fails
to comply with any order, direction, or notice given under
this Section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable
in accordance with §9.314.
(iii)
Where any sign or part thereof contravenes this Ordinance
or where any sign is in such a condition as to be in danger
of falling or is a menace to the safety of persons or property,
the Zoning Administrator shall give to the owner or person(s)
in control of such sign, written notice specifying the vio-
lation of this Ordinance, ordering the cessation thereof, and
requiring either the removal of the sign or the remedial
work necessary to bring the sign within compliance with this
Section in a manner specified in said notice. Such notice
shall be posted by registered mail, return receipt requested.
Upon failure to comply after thirty (30) days from receipt
of said notice, such person(s) shall be guilty of a mis-
demeanor in accordance with §9.314 in addition to the original
violation for which the notice was given. If a sign is found
to be an immediate and serious danger to the public because
of its unsafe condition, it may be removed without notice.
Written notice and reasons for such removal shall be served
as soon as possible. The remedies expressed herein are in
addition to those contained in the Hazardous Buildlng Act.
(i) Non-Conforming Uses:
(i)
After the enactment of this Section, the Zoning Administrator
shall, as soon as practicable, survey the municipality for
signs which do not conform to the requirements of this Ordinance.
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9.117A(4)
Upon determination that a sign is non-conforming, the Zoning
Administrator shall use reasonable efforts to so notify either
personally or in writing the user or owner of the signs or the
owner of the property on which the sign is located of the
sign's non-conformity. Failing determination of the sign
owner, user, or owner of the property on which the sign is
located, the notice may be affixed in a conspicious place
to the sign or to the business premises with which the sign
is associated. Failure to give proper notice hereunder shall
not extend a non-conforming use of a sign under §9.117A(2)(b).
(ii)
Nothing in this Section shall be construed as relieving the
owner or user of a non-conforming sign and its structure
described in §9.117A(3)(i)(i) above, or the owner or lessee
of the property on which such a sign is located from the
provisions of this Code regarding safety, maintenance and
repair. Provided, however, that any repainting, cleaning,
and other normal maintenance or repair which modifies the
sign or its structure in any way which further aggravates
or increases its non-conformity, shall be a violation of
this Section.
(iii)
Restrictions on size and location of signs which have been
heretofore imposed as a result of an approved site plan or
conditional use permit shall not be relieved by the pro-
visions of this Section.
(j)
Appeals: The procedure for appeal of any decision rendered under
the provisions of this Section shall be that prescribed in Chapter
9, Article I, Zoning Code of this City Code.
PROHIBITED SIGNS: Signs that are not specifically permitted in this
Section are hereby prohibited in all Districts. Without restricting
or limiting the generality of the provisions of the foregoing, the
following signs are specifically prohibited:
(a) A balcony sign and a sign mounted or supported on a balcony.
(b) Any sign that obstructs any part of a doorway or fire escape.
(c)
Any sign which because of its position, movement, shape, illumination
or color constitutes a traffic hazard because it obstructs free
and clear vision or interrupts, confuses or misleads traffic.
(d)
A private sign containing words or symbols which might reasonably
be construed as traffic controls, exccp~ after approval pur~uan~
to §7.102.
(e)
An animated or rotating sign, except barber poles and signs dis-
playing time and temperature information only in the animated or
rotating portion thereof.
- 14 -
9.117A(5)
(f)
A flashing sign, including indoor flashing electrical signs visible
from the public right-of-way, other than time and temperature signs,
limited to such time and temperature information.
(g)
A sign or graphics painted directly on any exterior surface of a
building or structure. However, sign letters and symbols may be
attached directly to such an exterior surface by adhesive or
mechanical means.
(h) Any roof sign.
(i)
A projecting sign which either extends more than eighteen inches
(18") from the building or structure to which it is attached,
other than canopy or marquee signs, or which is larger than three
feet (3') in vertical height.
(j) A portable sign.
(k) A sign which contains or consists of banners, pennants, ribbons,
streamers, strings of light bulbs, spinners or similar devices.
(1)
Any sign which does not display the name of the manufacturer or
maker permanently attached to or painted or printed on the exterior
or structural supports of the sign.
(m) Any sign which is erected, placed or maintained by any person on a
rock, fence, or trees.
(n) Any sign which interferes with any electric light, or power, tele-
phone, telecommunication, or telegraph wires, or the supports thereof.
(o)
Any sign containing electrical wiring which does not conform to the
Electrical Code under Chapter 6, Article II of this Code or the
components thereof do not bear the label of an approved testing
agency.
(p)
(q)
Any sign which uses materials or designs in violation of Chapter
6, Article II of this Code.
Any window sign or signs which exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of
the total area of the window on or in which it is displayed.
Exempt Signs: In all districts, the provisions of this section shall
not apply to the following signs:
(a) Signs of any governmental unit designed for regulatory and safety
purposes.
(b) Memorial plaques, cornerstones and historical tablets.
(c)
Political signs in residential areas not to exceed eight (8) square
feet per surface, and limited to two (2) surfaces, provided they
are displayed not more than thirty (30) days prior to an election
or referendum and not more than seven (7) days following said
election or referendum for which the sign is being erected.
- 15 -
(e)
(f)
(g)
(i)
(j)
(k)
(1)
Directional signs not more than two (2) in number identifying the
location and nature of a building, structure, or use which is not
readily visible from the street, serving such building, structure,
or use on lands forming part of the site of such buildings, structure,
or uses, provided that each such sign is not more than ten (10)
square feet in total area.
Signs not exceeding nine (9) square feet in area located upon pri-
vate property and directed toward the prevention of trespassing.
Window signage which does not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of
the total area of the window on or in which it is displayed.
Temporary signs pertaining to drives or events of eleemosynary,
educational or religious organizations, provided that such signs
shall not be erected or posted for a period of more than fourteen
(14) days prior to the date of the event and shall be removed
within three (3) days thereafter.
Flags or emblems of political, civic, philanthropic, educational
or religious organizations.
Incidental signs.
Temporary on-site signs advertising the sale, lease, or rental of
the lot or premises upon which such signs are situated, provided
the combined area of such signs fronting upon each street which
bounds such lot or premises shall not exceed a ratio of one (1)
square foot of sign area for each one thousand (1,000) square feet
of lot area, but need not be less than six (6) square feet. No
such temporary on-site sign shall exceed eight (8) square feet
nor remain past the date of termination of such offering.
One on-site temporary sign advertising a group of lots for sale
within a subdivision or a group of houses for sale within a
housing project along each street frontage which bounds such sub-
division or project, provided that the total area of such sign
shall not exceed the greater of sixty-four (64) square feet with no
single dimension in excess of sixteen feet (16') or eight (8)
square feet per lot or house for sale. No such on-site temporary
sign shall remain past the date of sale of the last lot within the
subdivision or the last house within the housing project.
Temporary on-site signs indicating the name and nature of a con-
struction or demolition project, plus the names of the contractors,
subcontrators, and professional advisors, provided the combined
area of such signs fronting upon each street which bounds such pro-
ject shall not exceed a ratio of two (2) square feet of sign area
for each one thousand (1,000) square feet of lot area. In no case
shall the combined area of such signs fronting upon each street
exceed the greater of sixty-four (64) square feet with no single
dimension in excess of sixteen feet (16') or eight (8) square feet
per house or lot on which such construction or demolition is located.
- 16 -
g.l17A(6)
The display of such sign shall be limited to a period not to exceed
the duration of the said construction or demolition project, at
which time such signs shall be removed.
(m)
One (1) wall sign per dwelling for permitted home occupations not
to exceed one (1) square foot per surface and limited to one (1)
surface.
Signs in "R-i" and "R-2" Districts
(a)
The creation, erection or use of any sign in the "R-i" and "R-2"
Districts not exempt under §9.117A(5), or not expressly enumerated
below, is a violation of this Section.
(b) The following signs are permitted in the "R-i" and "R-2"~;Distridts:
(i)
One (1) identification sign per dwelling unit not to exceed
one (1) square foot per surface, and limited to two (2) sur-
faces.
(ii)
One (1) wall or ground sign for each conditional use other
than the residential use, not to exceed sixteen (16) square
feet per surface, and limited to one (1) surface.
(iii)
One (1) temporary sign not to exceed six (6) square feet
per surface, limited to two (2) surfaces, and subject to
the permit requirement of §9.117A(3)(b) of this Ordinance.
(iv) One (1) institutional sign not to exceed thirty-two (32)
square feet per surface, and limited to two (2) surfaces.
(c) Permitted signs in the "R-I" and "R-2" Districts are subject to
the following restrictions:
(i)
The maximum height of a sign, including its structures, shall
not exceed eight feet (8') above the grade at street level or
at the base of the sign, whichever is higher.
(ii) No animated signs shall be permitted.
(iii)
Ail illuminated signs shall be shielded in such a way as
to protect the rights of adjacent property owners from
nuisance.
(iv)
The sign number and area permitted by this Section are con-
sidered maximums. These maximums, or any portions thereof
which are not utilized by the owner(s), occupant(s) or user(s)
of property located in the "R-i" and/or ffR-2wr D~str~cts are
absolutely non-transferable to any other property owned by
such persons, or to any other owner(s), occupant(s) or user(s)
of property in the same or other Districts.
- 17 -
9.117A(7)
9.117A(8)
Signs in "R-3" and "R-4" Districts
(a)
The creation, erection or use of any sign in the "R-3" and "R-4"
Districts not exempt under §9.117A(5) or not expressly enumerated
below is a violation of this Section.
(b) The following signs are permitted in the "R-3" and "R-4" Districts:
(i)
One (1) identification sign per dwelling unit not to exceed
two (2) square feet per surface, limited to two (2) surfaces,
for each single and two-family residence.
(ii)
One (1) area identification sign per lot line facing a public
street not to exceed sixteen (16) square feet per surface and
limited to two (2) surfaces, for each multiple dwelling.
(iii)
Temporary signs not to exceed eight (8) square feet per sur-
face, limited to one (1) surface and limited to one (1)
temporary sign per dwelling unit displayed at a single time
and subject to the permit requirement of §9.117A(3)(b) of
this Ordinance.
(iv) One (1) institutional sign not to exceed thirty-two (32)
square feet per surface and limited to two (2) surfaces.
(c) Permitted signs in the "R-3" and "R-4" Districts are subject to
the following restrictions:
(i)
The maximum height of a sign, including its structures, shall
not exceed eight feet (8') above the grade at street level or
at the base of the sign, whichever is higher.
(ii) No animated signs shall be permitted.
(iii) All illuminated signs shall be shielded in such a way as to
protect the rights of adjacent property owners from nuisance.
(iv)
The sign number and area permitted by this Section are con-
sidered maximums. These maximums, or any portions thereof
which are not utilized by the owner(s), occupant(s) or user(s)
of property located in the "R-3" and/or "R-4" Districts are
absolutely non-transferable to any other property owned by
such persons, or to any other owner(s), occupant(s) or user(s)
of property in the same or other Districts.
Signs in "LB" Districts
(a)
The creation, erection or use of any sign in the "LB" District
not exempt under §9.117A(5) or not expressly enumerated below is
a violation of this Section.
(b) The following signs are permitted in the "LB" District:
- 18 -
9.117A(9)
(i)
One (1) wall sign on each side of the building which faces
a public street, not to exceed fifty (50) square feet per
surface and limited to one (1) surface per sign.
(ii)
One (1) freestanding sign only if the building or structure
is located twenty feet (20') or more from the front lot line,
not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet per surface, and
limited to two (2) surfaces.
(iii)
One (1) wall sign on each side of the building which faces
a public alley, not to exceed four (4) square feet per sur-
face and limited to one (1) surface per sign.
(iv)
One (1) area identification sign for each shopping center not
to exceed fifty (50) square feet per surface, and limited to
four (4) surfaces, in addition to one (1) wall sign for each
primary use business not to exceed fifty (50) square feet
per surface, limited to one (1) surface.
(v)
One (1) identification sign for each use other than primary
use not to exceed two (2) square feet per surface, and limited
to one (1) surface.
(c) Permitted signs in the "LB" District are subject to the following
restrictions:
(i)
Total sign area shall not exceed two (2) square feet for each
front foot of the building or structure. In the case of mul-
tiple occupancy, the wall surface for each tenant, user or
owner shall include only the surface area on the exterior
facade of the premises occupied by such tenant, user or owner.
(ii) The maximum height of a sign including its structure shall
not exceed twenty (20') feet above the grade.
(iii)
The sign area permitted in §9.117A(8)(b)(iv) above shall
not be in addition to the area permitted in §9.117A(8)(b)
(i) and §9.117A(8)(b)(ii) and §9.117A(8)(b)(iii).
(iv)
The sign number and area permitted by this Section are con-
sidered maximums. These maximums, or any portion thereof,
which are not utilized by the owner(s), occupant(s) or
user(s) of property located in the "LB" District are abso-
lutely non-transferable to any other property owned, occupied
or used by such persons, or to any other owner(s), occupant(s)
or user(s) of property in the same or other Districts.
Signs in "CBD" Districts
(a)
The creation, erection or use of any sign in the "CBD" District
not exempt under §9.117A(5) or not expressly enumerated below is
a violation of this Ordinance.
- 19 -
9. l17A(10)
(b) The following signs are permitted in the "CBD" District:
(i)
One (1) wall sign on each side of the building which faces a
public street, not to exceed one hundred (100) square feet per
surface, and limited to one (1) surface per sign.
(ii)
One (1) freestanding sign, only if the building or structure
is located twenty feet (20') or more from the front lot line,
not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet, and limited to
two (2) surfaces.
(iii)
One (1) wall sign on each side of the building which faces
a public alley, not to exceed four (4) square feet per sur-
face and limited to one (1) surface per sign.
(iv)
One (1) area identification sign for each shopping center not
to exceed one hundred (100) square feet per surface, and
limited to four (4) surfaces; one (1) wall sign for each
primary use business, not to exceed one hundred (100) square
feet per surface, and limited to one (1) surface.
(v)
One (1) identification sign for each use other than primary
use, not to exceed two (2) square feet per surface, and limited
to one (1) surface.
(c) Permitted signs in the "CBD" District are subject to the
following restrictions:
(i)
Total sign area shall not exceed two (2) square feet for
each front foot of building or structure. In the case of
multiple occupancy, the wall surface for each tenant, user
or owner shall include only the surface area on the exterior
facade of the premises occupied by such tenant, user or owner.
(ii) The maximum height of a sign, including its structures, shall
not exceed twenty feet (20') above the grade.
(iii)
The sign are permitted in §9.117A(b)(iv) shall not be in
addition to the area permitted in §9.117A(9)(b)(i), §9.117A
(9) (b) (ii), and §9.117A(9) (b) (iii).
(iv)
The sign number and area permitted by this Section are con-
sidered maximums. These maximums, or any portion thereof,
which are not utilized by the owner(s), occupant(s) or user(s)
of property in the "CBD" District are absolutely non-trans-
ferable to any other property owned, occupied or used by such
persons or any other owner(s), occupant(s) or user(~) of
property in the same or other Districts.
Signs in "KB" and "GB" Districts
(a)
The creation, erection, or use of any sign in the "KB" and "GB"
Districts not exempt under §9.117A(5) or not expressly enumerated
below, is a violation of this Ordinance.
- 20 -
(b) The following signs are permitted in the "RB" and "GB" Districts:
(c)
(i)
One (1) wall sign on each side of the building which faces a
public street, not to exceed one hundred (100) square feet per
surface, limited to one (1) surface per sign.
(ii)
One (1) freestanding sign only if the building or structure is
located twenty feet (20') or more from the front lot line, not
to exceed seventy-five (75) square feet per surface, and
limited to two (2) surfaces.
(iii)
One (1) wall sign on each side of the building which faces
a public alley, not to exceed four (4) square feet per sur-
face and limited to one (1) surface per sign.
(iv)
One (1) area identification sign for each shopping center, not
to exceed one hundred (100) square feet per surface, limited
to four (4) surfaces, in addition to one (1) wall sign for
each primary use business, not to exceed one hundred (100)
square feet per surface, limited to one (1) surface.
(v)
One (1) identification sign for each use other than primary
use, not to exceed two (2) square feet per surface, and limited
to one surface.
(vi)
Billboards located adjacent to public streets with speed limits
of forty-five miles per hour (45 mph) or more, placed at a
minimum of five hundred feet (500') intervals, not to exceed
three hundred (300) square feet per surface and limited to
two (2) surfaces.
Permitted signs in the "RB" and "GB" Districts are subject to the
following regulations:
(i)
Total signage shall not exceed two (2) square feet for each
front foot of building or structure. In the case of multiple
occupancy, the wall surface for each tenant, user or owner
shall include only the surface area on the exterior facade of
the premises occupied by such tenant, user, or owner.
(ii) The maximum height of a sign, including its structures, shall
not exceed thirty feet (30') above the grade.
(iii)
The sign area permitted in §9.117A(10)(b)(iv) shall not be
in addition to the area permitted in §9.117A(10)(b)(i),
§9.117A(10) (b) (ii), and }9.117A(10) (b) (iii).
(iv)
The sign number and area permitted by this section are con-
sidered maximums. These maximums, or any portion thereof,
which are not utilized by the owner(s), occupant(s) or user(s)
of property located in the "RB" and/or "GB" Districts are
absolutely non-transferable to any other property owned,
occupied or used by such persons or to any other owner(s),
occupant(s) or user(s) of property located in the same or
other Districts.
- 21 -
9. l17A(ll)
9.117A
Signs in "I" Districts
(a) The creation, erection or use of any sign in the "I" District mot
exempt under §9.117A(5) or not expressly enumerated below, is a
violation of this Ordinance.
(b) The following signs are permitted in the "I" District:
(i)
One (1) wall sign per lot line which faces a public right of
way, not to exceed one hundred (100) square feet per surface,
and limited to one (1) surface.
(ii)
One (1) freestanding sign only if the building or structure
is located twenty feet (20') or more from the front lot line,
not to exceed one hundred (100) square feet per surface, and
limited to two (2) surfaces.
(iii)
One (1) identification sign for each use other than primary
use, not to exceed two (2) square feet per surface, and
limited to one (1) sign.
(iv)
Billboards located adjacent to public streets with speed limits
of forty-five miles per hour (45 mph) or more, placed at a
minimum of five hundred feet (500') intervals, not to exceed
three hundred (300) square feet per surface, and limited to
two (2) surfaces.
(c) Permitted signs in the "I"~District are subject to the following
regulations:
(i)
Total sign area shall not exceed two (2) square feet for each
front foot of building or structure. In the case of multiple
occupancy, the wall surface for each tenant, user, or owner
shall include only the surface area on the exterior facade of
the premises occupied by such tenant, user or owner.
(ii) The maximum height of a sign including its structures shall
not exceed forty feet (40') above the grade.
(iii)
The sign number and area permitted by this Section are con-
sidered maximums. These maximums, or any portion thereof,
which are not utilized by the owner(s), occupant(s) or user(s)
of real property located in the "I" District are absolutely
non-transferable to any other property owned, occupied, or
used by such person(s) or to any other owner(s), occupant(s),
or user(s) of real property located in the same or other
Districts.
Signs for Non-Conforming Residential Uses
- 22 -
Section 4:
Section 5:
Section 6:
Section 7:
Section 8:
Section 9:
(a) Sign number and area for residential uses in Commercial, Business,
or Industrial Zones are limited to the maximum number and area for
the actual use of the subject property if properly zoned for the
actual use of the said subject property.
Section 9.107(3)(g) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed
June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated in Section 9.116(7) of this Ordinance."
%m herewith amended to read as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated by and to the extent permitted by Section 9.117A"
Section 9.109(3)(d) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed
June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated in Section 9.116(7)"
is herewith amended to read as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated by and to the extent permitted by Section 9.117A"
Section 9.112(3)(f) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed
June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated in Section 9.116(7) of this Ordinance"
is herewith amended to read as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated by and to the extent permitted by Section 9.117A"
Section 9.113(3)(d) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed
June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated in Section 9.116(7) of this Ordinance"
is herewith amended to read as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated by and to the extent permitted by Section 9.117A"
Section 9.115(1)(j) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed
June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Billboards and signs"
is herewith amended to read as follows, to-wit:
"Billboards as regulated by and to the extent permitted by
Section 9.117A"
Section 9.115(3)(c) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed
June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated in Section 9.116(2) of this Ordinance"
- 23 -
is herewith amended to read as follows, to-wit:
"Signs as regulated by and to the extent permitted by Section 9.117A"
Section 10: Section 9.116(3)(c) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Signs: No signs shall be located in any parking area except as
necessary for orderly operation of traffic movement, and such
signs shall not be a part of the permitted advertising space."
is herewith amended to read as follows, to-wit:
"S~gns: Nm sign shall be located in any parking area except as
necessary for the orderly operation of traffic movement or park-
ing regulation. Such signs shall not be considered a part of
the permitted advertising space and shall be subject to regula-
tion pursuant to Section 9.117A."
Section 11: Section 9.116(18)(k) of Ordinance No. 853, City Code of 1977, passed
June 21, 1977, which reads as follows, to-wit:
"Motor fuel stations may have one pedestal type nameplate sign
not to exceed 26 feet in height erected within any yard, except
that no part of said sign shall be less than six (6) feet from
a lot line. Said sign. shall not have more than two (2) display
surfaces each of which shall not exceed 30 square feet."
is herewith repealed.
Section 12: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after thirty
(30) days after its passage.
First reading:
Second reading:
Date of passage:
June 8, 1981
July 13, 1981
Ju~y 13, 1981
Offered by: hogacz
Seconded by: Heintz
Roll Call: Al! ayes
Bruce G. Nawrocki, Mayor
- 24 -