(a)

The purpose of this chapter is to protect and promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the city through the establishment of a comprehensive and impartial set of regulations governing the erection, display, and use of signs serving as a visual media to persons on public or private properties within the city.

(b)

These regulations are intended to:

(1)

Preserve and protect property values and civic beauty, and not allow signs which detract from this objective due to excess size, height, number, visual impact, undesirable location, maintenance (or lack thereof), spacing, or illumination.

(2)

Provide for signs which are compatible with their surroundings and appropriate to the type of activity to which they pertain.

(3)

Control signs which invade privacy, constitute a public nuisance, or increase the likelihood of accidents by distracting attention or obstructing vision.

(4)

Establish standards which will permit businesses a reasonable and equitable opportunity for effective communication, but will avoid excessive and unreasonable visual competition among sign displays.

(5)

Allow a reasonable freedom of choice, while promoting a concern for the visual amenities on those persons designing, displaying, erecting, or utilizing signs in the city.

(6)

Assure that the public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the city is preserved.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.01; Ord. No. 85-877, 5-16-1985; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Billboards means a sign located on premises other than where the establishment, product, service, or activity is located, manufactured, or sold, offered, displayed or conducted.

Canopy means a roof-like structure projecting from and attached to a building.

Display window means a window in a business establishment used to display wares or services.

Establishment means:

(1)

A distinct business entity situated in a single building;

(2)

A distinct business entity located in a structure attached to other similar structures by common walls and ceilings or floors, or attached by means of an enclosed arcade;

(3)

A distinct business entity contained within a single structure and not separated by walls or other physical barrier, but distinct because of its existence as a single lease space and operation by a separate entrepreneur, or by its singularity of purpose carried on by a single proprietor or separate proprietors.

Highway 65/Main Street Interchange District means a district for purposes of allowing additional signage in a specified area, described as all commercially zoned property located within 1,200 feet of the Centerline of Highway 65 and between 600 feet south of the Centerline of 121st Avenue and 600 feet north of the Centerline of 129th Avenue.

Major shopping center commercial complex means a retail area or commercial complex, including sports or entertainment facilities which comprise at least 100,000 square feet of occupied building area or complex area. The square footage will be based only on facility space utilized by occupants or patrons.

Nonconforming sign means a sign which lawfully existed at the time of the adoption of this part, which does not conform to the requirements hereof.

Regional recreation complex means a defined group of adjacent and related athletic and recreation facilities within the regional recreation zone with a combined area of at least 100 acres.

Regional shopping center/commercial complex means a retail area or commercial complex, including sports or entertainment facilities which comprise at least 500,000 square feet of occupied building area or complex area. The square footage will be based only on facility space utilized by occupants or patrons.

Roofline means, in structures with a flat roof, the top line of the coping; in structures with pitched roofs, the intersection of the outside wall with the roof.

Sign means any letters, words, symbols, poster, picture, device reading matter, or representation in the nature of a message, announcement, visual communication, or advertisement whether printed, painted, posted, affixed, constructed, or displayed for the purpose of information or communication. The term "sign" includes sign structural supports, uprights, bracing and framework. The term "sign" shall specifically include architectural or graphic features which are intrinsically associated with a particular product, good, service, business, firm corporation, or profession.

Sign, abandoned, means a sign which no longer correctly advertises a bona fide business, lessor, lessee, owner, activity, use, product, or service available on the premises where the sign is displayed for a continuous period of three months.

Sign, banner, means a flexible piece of cloth, nylon, canvas, plastic, or similar material upon which copy, images, branding, colors and the like may be located.

Sign, changeable copy, means a sign designed to permit an immediate change of copy which may be other than the name of the business such as readerboards and billboards.

Sign, directional, means a sign, the primary function of which is to provide location directions.

Signs, electronic readerboard, means a sign which uses artificial lights as an integral part of the message. The message is changed by electronic means, not manually.

Sign, feather, means a freestanding temporary sign consisting of a piece of flexible cloth, plastic or other similar material that is attached lengthwise to a single pole and designed to flutter/wave in the wind.

Sign, flashing, means any illuminated sign that has artificial light or color which is not maintained at a constant intensity or color when such sign is in use. A flashing sign shall not include electronic readerboard signs, providing the sign is in compliance with section 133-7.

Sign, freestanding, means a sign that is supported by upright braces or posts placed in the ground, rather than affixed to any part of the building.

Sign, gross surface area of, means that physical area of the sign constituted as the face upon which the advertisement is borne. The gross surface area shall be that area enclosed within the smallest rectangle needed to encompass completely all letters, insignias or symbols of the sign, including horizontal spacing between letters, insignias or symbols, and including the physical area constituting the face of the sign. This shall be determined using one side of a double-faced sign. Architectural columns or significant architectural features constructed on the front of a building as determined by the zoning administrator may be subtracted from the area calculated for allowable square footage for a permitted sign.

Sign, identification, means any sign, the primary function of which is to identify an establishment located upon the premises where such is located, or to which such sign is affixed.

Sign, illuminated, means any sign that is lighted by artificial means.

Sign, monument style, means a freestanding sign that contains a solid or enclosed base and where the sign support posts is/are not visible. Base shall be constructed of materials that are consistent with and complementary to the building. Width of base to be a minimum of two-thirds the width of sign face.

Sign, noncommercial, means a sign not bearing a message advertising a business, profession, commodity, service, or entertainment. The term "noncommercial signs" includes, but is not limited to, signs bearing messages concerning political, religious, social, ideological, public service, and informational topics.

Sign, portable, means a sign so designed as to be movable from one location to another and not permanently attached to the ground or to any immobile structure.

Sign, projecting, means a sign which is affixed perpendicular to the wall of a building or other structure and extends outward from that building wall or structure more than 18 inches.

Sign, roof, means a sign erected or attached in whole or in part upon the roof of a building, or a non-freestanding sign which projects above the roofline of a respective building.

Sig, structure means the supports, uprights, bracing and framework for a sign, including the sign surface itself. In the case of a wall sign, the sign surface constitutes the sign structure. In the case of a sign structure consisting of two or more signs, where the interior angle formed between any of the sides exceeds 15 degrees, each side shall be considered a separate sign structure.

Sign, temporary, means a sign which is erected or displayed for a limited period of time.

Sign, wall, means a sign which is affixed upon and parallel to the wall of a building.

Wall graphic means visual artistic representations, symbols, and affiliations with state, federal, or international organizations.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.02; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 88-1078, 4-21-1988; Ord. No. 94-1502, 2-17-1994; Ord. No. 97-1637, 2-6-1997; Ord. No. 99-1822, 11-18-1999; Ord. No. 00-1870, 9-21-2000; Ord. No. 07-2119, 5-17-2007; Ord. No. 08-2174, 12-18-2008; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020; Ord. No. 23-2535, § 34.02, 12-18-2023)

(a)

The zoning administrator shall order the removal of any sign erected or maintained in violation of the law as it existed prior to the date of adoption of the ordinance from which this subpart is derived, except as provided herein. Removal shall be in accordance with section 133-11.

(b)

Whenever the use of a nonconforming sign or an abandoned sign has been discontinued for a period of 12 months, such use shall not thereafter be resumed unless in conformance with this subpart.

(c)

All nonconforming signs not otherwise prohibited by the provisions of this chapter shall be removed or shall be altered to conform to the provisions of this chapter

(1)

When the nature of the business conducted on the premises changes and the sign is changed or modified either in shape, size, or legend excluding the legend on changeable copy signs; or

(2)

When the name of the business changes or the sign is changed or modified either in shape, size, or legend; or

(3)

The sign is moved, enlarged or altered in a way which would increase its nonconformity; or

(4)

When the sign is damaged by any means to an extent of more than 50 percent of its replacement cost at time of damage, unless a sign permit application has been applied for within 180 days of when the property was damaged, it shall not be reconstructed except in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.

(d)

Permanent signs which lawfully existed and which do not meet the monument sign requirements of this chapter shall be allowed to continue in use unless required to be modified by site plan improvements or conditional use permit requirements.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.03; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 94-1502, 2-17-1994; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

The following signs are prohibited:

(1)

Signs that, by reason of position, shape or color, would interfere with the proper function of a traffic sign or signal.

(2)

Signs within a public right-of-way, except for signs installed by governmental subdivisions.

(3)

Signs within an easement, except for signs installed by governmental subdivisions or approved by the holder of the easement.

(4)

Signs that resemble any official marker erected by a governmental agency or that displays such words as "stop" or "danger," which are not erected by legal authority.

(5)

Flashing signs, including indoor signs, which are visible from the public streets.

(6)

Signs or displays with rotating beams or beacons of flashing illumination.

(7)

Signs or sign structures that obstruct any window, door, fire escape, stairway or opening intended to provide ingress or egress for any building structure.

(8)

Balloons, inflatables and stringers.

(9)

Sign posters, that are tacked or posted on trees, fences, utility posts, or other such supports.

(10)

Portable signs, except as provided in section 133-6, unless approved in conjunction with a special event temporary sign permit, as provided in section 133-12.

(11)

Roof signs, except for individual channel letters, up to three feet in height, on single-story, flat-roofed buildings without visible supports.

(12)

Billboards, except as provided in section 133-8.

(13)

All other signs not expressly permitted by this chapter.

(14)

Projecting signs.

(15)

Abandoned signs.

(16)

Signs with rotating or moving parts.

(17)

Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles or trailers which are parked on a public right-of-way, public property, or private property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way where the apparent purpose is to advertise a product or direct people to a business or activity located on the same or nearby property.

(18)

Signs which have become rotted, unsafe or unsightly.

(19)

Signs for citywide community events, sponsored by government or nonprofit organizations unless approved in conjunction with a temporary sign permit, as provided in section 133-12.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.04; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 90-1232, 10-18-1990; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020; Ord. No. 25-2582, § 34.04, 7-21-2025)

(a)

Where a sign is illuminated, the beam of light shall not shine directly upon any part of a residence or into the street.

(b)

No part of any freestanding sign shall be closer than ten feet from any lot line, or from the public right-of-way.

(c)

When electrical signs are installed, their installation shall be subject to inspection by the department of labor and industry.

(d)

It shall be the responsibility of the lessee, licensee, owner, or agent of the owner of the property to keep the ground under and adjacent to the sign free of weeds and litter.

(e)

The construction of all permitted signs shall be in conformance with the provisions of the state building code. All monument signs taller than ten feet require a building permit in addition to a sign permit.

(f)

A sign or its structural components shall not move as a result of wind pressure.

(g)

The design and color of all signs shall be compatible with the design and color of the building.

(h)

The sign height shall be measured from the normal grade of the lot as approved by the zoning administrator.

(i)

The owner of a freestanding sign, who intends to sell portions or otherwise condominiumize a freestanding sign, shall first notify the city of the owner's intent to do so and secondly, receive written verification from the city (zoning administrator) that the sign conforms to current sign standards prior to conveying or condominiumizing said sign.

(j)

All temporary signs must be maintained and shall be removed if material shows signs of wear, including, but not limited to, fraying, fading, chipping, or physical damage to the sign structure.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.05; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 94-1502, 2-17-1994; Ord. No. 96-1609, 6-20-1996; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

The following signs are permitted and do not require a permit:

(1)

Identification signs for one- and two-family dwellings, provided that such signs are less than two square feet in area, address numbers exempted.

(2)

Pedestrian, vehicular-traffic, and parking directional signs in parking lots, provided such signs are less than eight square feet in area and less than five feet in height, unless located on the building, provided such sign does not constitute a traffic hazard.

(3)

Traffic control signs, noncommercial governmental signs, local notices, railroad crossing signs, and temporary non-advertising safety or emergency signs.

(4)

Signs denoting the architect, engineer, contractor, or owner when placed upon a worksite, which do not exceed an aggregate of 32 square feet in area. Such signs must be removed ten days after completion of construction.

(5)

Copy of message changing on permitted changeable copy signs, including billboards.

(6)

Noncommercial signs of any size and number may be posted on private property with the permission of the property owner beginning 46 days before the state primary in a state general election year until ten days following the state general election.

(7)

Signs or posters painted on or attached to the inside of a display window occupying less than 25 percent of the display window area. This shall include illuminated signs, but not flashing signs.

(8)

Flags.

a.

Noncommercial flags.

b.

Corporate flags or other commercial flags provided the flag meets the following criteria:

1.

Flags must be mounted or flown from a ground- or roof-mounted pole and not affixed to the building wall surface.

2.

Flagpoles must be located on the lot occupied by the business for which the flag identifies.

3.

Flagpoles shall be placed with a minimum setback of 15 feet from any property line.

4.

Flag heights shall not exceed 40 feet in height to the highest point of the flag.

5.

Flags shall not exceed 32 square feet in area.

6.

Multiple flagpoles may be located on a lot with each pole supporting one corporate flag. The number of flagpoles allowed on each site is based on front footage of the lot (address side) divided by 50 feet.

(9)

Temporary displays which are erected to celebrate, commemorate or observe a civil or religious holiday, provided such displays are removed within 30 days after the event or holiday.

(10)

Wall graphics are allowed, provided they are not used for advertising, and provided the approval of the zoning administrator has been granted.

(11)

Real estate signs as follows:

a.

Temporary signs for the purpose of selling or leasing individual lots or buildings, provided that such signs are less than ten square feet for residential property and 32 square feet for other property, have a maximum height of ten feet, unless located on the building, and provided that only one sign is permitted for each property. The signs must be removed within ten days following the lease or sale.

b.

One sign per building for the purpose of leasing dwelling units or office space in building containing two or more units, provided such signs are limited to five square feet in area.

c.

One sign for the purpose of announcing or promoting a residential, commercial, or industrial development shall be allowed subject to the following conditions. Each residential project must contain at least six dwellings or lots. The sign must be located at least 130 feet from any preexisting home. The sign must be removed within two years of issuance of a first building permit in the development or when the particular development is 90 percent sold or rented, whichever is sooner. Each sign shall not exceed the following size limitations:

1.

Project area under ten acres: 32 square feet;

2.

Project area over ten acres: 140 square feet.

(12)

One feather sign with a maximum width of 3.5 feet and a maximum height of 18 feet or a banner with a maximum area of 32 square feet is permitted without a temporary sign permit.

(13)

Interim banner signs for new establishments installed in the location of lawfully existing freestanding or wall signs not to exceed the size of the existing signs. Interim banner signs permitted for new establishments until permanent signs are installed or 60 days, whichever is less.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.06; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 97-1656, 5-1-1997; Ord. No. 00-1884, 12-21-2000; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

(a)

Commercial (B-2, B-3, B-4, B-5, MU, PBD, DF with commercial land uses) and industrial (I-1, I-1A, I-2, I-2A, DF with industrial land uses) districts.

(1)

Wall signs.

a.

Single-tenant buildings. There shall not be more than one wall sign for each principal building except that where the building abuts two or more streets, one oriented to each abutting street, shall be permitted, provided that the design of which is approved by the zoning administrator. The gross surface area of a wall sign shall not exceed ten percent of the area of the building wall, including doors and windows, to which the sign is to be affixed or 200 square feet, whichever is smaller.

b.

Multi-tenant buildings shall have wall signs of similar design. Each tenant is allowed one wall sign in accordance with subsection (a)(1)a of this section, except that a tenant space which has its only entrance on a side of the building not abutting a public street shall be allowed one sign meeting the size requirements of subsection (a)(1)a of this section and located on the same wall as the tenant's only entrance. No signage is permitted for tenant entrances immediately adjacent to residentially-zoned property. Future wall sign permits on multi-tenant buildings, including shopping centers, shall be issued only after the building owners have submitted a comprehensive sign plan approved by the zoning administrator. The comprehensive sign plan shall include similar design standards involving sign material, color, style, spacing, and size.

c.

For those buildings that are allowed multiple wall signs, the zoning administrator has the authority to allow individual wall signs that are larger than 200 square feet in exchange for reducing or removing other wall signage normally allowed by subsections (a)(1)a and b of this section. In no case shall any individual wall sign occupy more than ten percent of that particular building wall area.

d.

Wall signage elements that are proposed on building elevations that have been designed with significant and material architectural enhancements, above those typically required by the zoning ordinance as determined by the zoning administrator, can be measured as separate areas for calculating the gross surface area of the sign.

(2)

Freestanding signs.

a.

Commercial (B-2, B-3, B-4, B-5, MU, PBD, and DF with commercial land use).

1.

Single-tenant buildings and multi-tenant buildings may have one monument sign up to a maximum of 140 square feet in surface area. Monument signs shall not exceed 14 feet in height.

2.

If a multi-tenant building is not a major shopping center/commercial complex but has a linear frontage of at least 400 feet and abuts a street which is at least an arterial street, one additional monument sign is allowed providing that the area of the additional sign does not exceed 140 square feet and the height does not exceed 14 feet. If the second sign is to be located on the same street frontage as the primary sign, the two signs shall be placed no less than 150 feet apart.

3.

Major shopping centers/commercial complexes are allowed a monument sign up to a maximum of 180 square feet in area and a maximum height of 25 feet. Major shopping center complexes are allowed one additional monument sign per arterial street upon which they front. The width of the base may be reduced to 50 percent of the width of the sign with the zoning administrator's approval.

4.

Businesses on adjoining commercial lots may, subject to the approval of the zoning administrator, request one freestanding sign with multiple business identification in exchange for eliminating or relinquishing the rights, by restrictive covenant, to have individual freestanding signs on their own separate lots. Collaborative signage constructed under this section shall be monument style, with a maximum area of 180 square feet and a maximum height of 18 feet.

5.

Multiple buildings on one parcel that have been granted a conditional use permit may be allowed one monument sign for each building constructed on an area which, if platted, would meet all the lot requirements of the zoning ordinance. One monument sign is allowed up to a maximum of 140 square feet. All signs thereafter are allowed up to a maximum of 90 square feet. Monument signs shall not exceed 14 feet in height.

6.

Permitted freestanding signs under previous subsection (a)(2)a.1 through 5 of this section, and located within the Highway 65/Main Street Interchange District as defined by this subpart, shall be allowed to a height of not more than 50 feet and an area of not greater than 180 square feet. Signs permitted under this section shall have a monument-style base constructed of materials that are consistent with the principal building to a minimum height of six feet. Monument base to be a minimum of two-thirds of the width of the sign.

7.

Restaurants providing a drive-through, take-out service may have additional drive-through signs adjacent to the drive-through lanes, providing that the maximum height of the sign is ten feet and the maximum area is 50 square feet.

8.

Readerboards.

(i)

Signs included within this section must meet all the requirements of this part.

(ii)

A minimum display time of four seconds for each message within the frame of the sign is required.

(iii)

All displays must include and utilize an automatic dimming mechanism that allows the display to adjust brightness to accommodate a brighter light intensity during daylight and dimmer light intensity after dusk.

b.

Industrial (I-1, I-1A, I-2, I-2A, DF with industrial land uses).

1.

Individual structures and multi-tenant buildings are limited to one monument sign up to a maximum of 80 square feet in surface area and have a maximum height of ten feet.

2.

Readerboards.

(i)

Signs included within this section must meet all the requirements of this subpart.

(ii)

A minimum display time of four seconds for each message within the frame of the sign is required.

(iii)

All displays must include and utilize an automatic dimming mechanism that allows the display to adjust the brightness to accommodate a brighter light intensity during daylight and dimmer light intensity after dusk.

(b)

Neighborhood Business District (B-1).

(1)

Wall signs. There shall not be more than one wall sign for each principal building except that where the building abuts two or more streets, one oriented to each abutting street shall be permitted, provided that the design of which is approved by the zoning administrator. The gross surface area of a wall sign shall not exceed ten percent of the area of the building wall, including doors and windows, to which the sign is to be affixed or 64 square feet, whichever is smaller.

(2)

Freestanding signs. Each establishment may have one monument sign with a maximum area of 140 square feet. These signs shall not extend more than 14 feet above ground level.

(c)

Residential districts (R-1, R-1B, R-1A, R-1AA, R-2, R-3, R-4, AG, FR, RE, and DF properties with residential land uses).

(1)

The following zoning districts are allowed one sign per household for a home occupation:

a.

R-1, R-1A, R-1AA, R-1B, RE, R-4, R-2, and DF properties with residential land uses: one wall sign not to exceed 2.5 square feet.

b.

FR, AG: one wall sign not to exceed 2.5 square feet or one freestanding sign not exceeding 2.5 square feet in area nor exceeding four feet in height.

(2)

Churches, synagogues, temples and other public places, and residential subdivisions or multifamily complexes may have one monument sign with a maximum area of 36 square feet. Such signs shall not be located more than ten feet above ground level.

(3)

Churches, schools and similar public facilities in residential zoning districts may have an electronic readerboard, provided the requirements of subsection (a)(2)a of this section have been met and the sign is located adjacent to a collector or arterial road as designated in the city's comprehensive plan.

(4)

Churches, schools, fire stations, golf courses or other public buildings may have one wall sign. Said sign shall consist of non-illuminated block letters with a maximum area of 80 square feet.

(5)

Golf courses, golf driving ranges, commercial stables, nurseries, garden supply stores and general farming or garden operations in the FR Farm Residential Zoning District may have one monument style freestanding sign with a maximum area of 36 square feet and a maximum height of ten feet above ground level.

(d)

Area identification signs. Signs erected for the sole purpose of identifying the name of a recognized commercial or industrial area (not shopping center) shall be permitted in all commercial or industrial districts. Area identification signs are subject to the approval of the zoning administrator, provided that the monument sign does not exceed 50 square feet in area and 14 feet in height. An accompanying landscape plan is required with this permit. A written statement must also be submitted indicating the party responsible for the maintenance of the sign.

(e)

Planned office district (POD).

(1)

Monument signs. One monument sign shall be permitted per lot.

a.

Said sign shall be no greater than 50 square feet in size and stand no higher than ten feet nor longer than 14 feet.

b.

Said sign shall be constructed of the same exterior material as the front of the building and be architecturally compatible with the building.

c.

Said sign may be illuminated internally or by ground lighting only.

d.

Lots occupied and having at least 400 feet frontage on a second public street may be allowed an additional freestanding monument sign along its second public street frontage.

(2)

Wall signs.

a.

One wall sign shall be permitted per building.

1.

Said signs shall not be greater than 50 square feet in size.

2.

Said signs may be illuminated, if illumination is achieved through shielded illumination, shielded silhouette lighting, or shielded spot lighting, but not any lighting where the light source is visible or exposed on the face or sides of the characters.

b.

No other signs shall be permitted except building safety, address and traffic signs which must be approved by the city on the site plan.

(f)

Regional recreation.

(1)

Wall signs.

a.

There shall not be more than one wall sign for each principal building except that, where the building abuts two or more streets, one oriented to each abutting street shall be permitted, provided that the design of which is approved by the zoning administrator. The gross surface area of a wall sign shall not exceed ten percent of the area of the building wall, including doors and window, to which the sign is to be affixed or 200 square feet, whichever is smaller.

b.

For those buildings that are allowed multiple wall signs, the zoning administrator has the authority to allow individual wall signs that are larger than 200 square feet in exchange for reducing or removing other wall signage normally allowed by subsection (f)(1)a of this section. In no case shall any individual wall sign occupy more than ten percent of that particular building wall area.

c.

Sponsor boards which advertise products or businesses not connected with the site or building on which they are located shall be permitted on Regional Recreation (RR) zoned property. This signage shall meet the requirements of subsection (f)(1)a and b of this section.

(2)

Freestanding signs.

a.

Each outdoor athletic field and each parking lot is allowed one freestanding sign with a maximum height of eight feet and a maximum area of 32 square feet.

b.

Each entrance to a regional recreation complex from a public road is permitted one freestanding sign with a maximum height of eight feet and a maximum area of eight square feet.

c.

Each intersection of two public roads is permitted one freestanding sign with a maximum height of eight feet and a maximum area of 40 square feet.

d.

Regional recreation complexes are allowed a monument sign up to a maximum of 180 square feet in area and a maximum height of 25 feet. Regional recreational facilities area allowed one additional monument sign per arterial street upon which they front. The width of the base may be reduced to 50 percent of the width of the sign with the zoning administrator's approval.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.07; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 87-1045, 12-17-1987; Ord. No. 90-1180, 1-18-1990; Ord. No. 90-1212, 7-19-1990; Ord. No. 92-1281, 3-5-1992; Ord. No. 92-1282, 3-5-1992; Ord. No. 94-1502, 2-17-1994; Ord. No. 95-1574, 9-21-1995; Ord. No. 96-1594, 4-18-1996; Ord. No. 97-1637, 2-6-1997; Ord. No. 98-1727, 6-25-1998; Ord. No. 98-1747, 10-15-1998; Ord. No. 98-1755, 11-19-1998; Ord. No. 00-1865, 8-17-2000; Ord. No. 00-1870, 9-21-2000; Ord. No. 06-2095, 5-4-2006; Ord. No. 07-2119, 5-17-2007; Ord. No. 08-2168, 11-6-2008; Ord. No. 13-2271, 8-15-2013; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020; Ord. No. 22-2494, 1-19-2022; Ord. No. 24-2568, § 34.07, 11-18-2024)

(a)

Generally. Outdoor advertising structures and billboards which advertise products or businesses not connected with the site or building on which they are located shall be permitted only on property which is zoned Light Industrial (I-1, I-1A), Heavy Industrial (I-2, I-2A), Planned Business District (PBD), Community Commercial (B-2) or Regional Commercial (B-3).

(b)

Restriction. Billboards shall be restricted to property adjoining Interstate Highway 35W and U.S. Highway No. 10.

(c)

Size.

(1)

The maximum gross surface area of a billboard shall be 700 square feet. Two facings per structure shall be the maximum permitted, and double-faced signs shall be attached back to back with the internal structure or framework concealed. Temporary extensions can extend from the top or sides of the sign to not more than 25 percent of the total area of the primary sign face.

(2)

The billboard shall have a maximum height of 50 feet above the elevation grade of the road to be read to, except that a sign between 50 feet and 65 feet in height may be allowed by conditional use permit, to enable the proposed sign to be fully seen over artificial structures, such as MnDOT sound walls, bridges, etc.

(d)

Location.

(1)

The minimum linear distance between billboards on the same side of the highway shall be 550 feet.

(2)

The minimum setback from any property line shall be 20 feet.

(3)

The minimum setback at any intersection shall be 100 feet.

(4)

No billboard or structure shall be located within 100 feet of a residential district.

(e)

Design requirements—Generally.

(1)

All visible sign support columns shall be concealed with approved architectural embellishments.

(2)

The materials used in the sign support embellishments shall be primarily natural stone, brick, approved masonry panels, stucco, or architectural metal. All sign materials and architectural design shall be consistent with the quality and appearance standards suggested by the city's Highway 65 overlay.

(3)

All sign structures shall incorporate the city's logo near the top of the sign support in a design and style as approved by the city.

(4)

A billboard shall require the issuance of a sign permit, pursuant to section 133-10.

(f)

Design requirement—Dynamic (electronic) message signs.

(1)

Changeable messages must be displayed with minimum time duration of eight seconds. All messages must be complete and cannot carry over or lead into a subsequent message.

(2)

Lighting must be set at the minimum level necessary to provide clear viewing from the right-of-way and must be shielded from side or top view to minimize glare.

(3)

Messages cannot be animated, moving, flashing, scrolling or crawling.

(4)

Dynamic signs must contain a public service agreement allowing the city the ability, if the city participates, at no cost to the city, to provide up to 800 eight-second public service messages per month.

(5)

Sign must be part of the state's public safety alert system.

(g)

Removal of signs. It shall be the responsibility of the billboard owner to send written notification to the office of community development when a billboard has been removed from the city.

(h)

Other regulations. The building inspection department shall order the removal of any billboard or advertising structure erected or maintained in violation of the law as it exists prior to the effective date of the ordinance from which this subpart is derived, as provided in section 133-13. Other advertising structures or billboards existing on the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived and not conforming to the provisions of this chapter, shall be regarded as nonconforming signs.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.08; Ord. No. 85-877, 5-16-1985; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 10-2204, 6-17-2010; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

(a)

Off-site directional signs are limited in wording to include only the name of the organization or business, the distance to same, and a directional arrow. Organizations or businesses utilizing off-site directional signage are limited to permitted or conditional uses currently operating within the existing FR Farm Residential zoning district.

(b)

Signs shall be limited to property with frontage along Lexington Avenue, Radisson Road, and Main Street (125th Avenue NE) and be placed only on parcels zoned FR Farm Residential.

(c)

Signs shall be a maximum of 15 square feet in area and mounted on an approved sign standard. The sign standard shall not exceed eight feet in height.

(d)

No two signs shall be closer together than 300 feet.

(e)

There shall be not more than one off-site directional sign permitted for each business or organization.

(f)

A permit will be required for all signs. The permit shall give exact location of sign standard, height of same, and the name of the organization or business to be designated on the sign. The permit must be signed by the applicant and the owner of the property on which the standard is to be located. Not more than one sign is permitted per parcel of record. Signs shall have a minimum ten-foot setback from all property lines.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.09; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 98-1727, 6-25-1998; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

(a)

Sign permits. No sign shall hereafter be erected, re-erected or altered, including the replacement of the business message, except permitted changeable copy signs, unless a permit for each sign has been obtained, unless no permit is required pursuant to section 133-6. In addition, electrical permits shall be obtained for all electric signs. Application for a sign permit shall be made in writing on forms furnished by the community development department. Such application shall contain the location by street and number of the proposed sign structure, the erector, a scale drawing of the sign indicating material copy, and color location. Maintenance of signs, including repainting without changing the wording, composition, size, or colors; or minor nonstructural repairs, (except electrical repairs) shall not require a permit.

(b)

Sign permit fees. Permit fees shall be in accordance with a fee schedule as adopted by city council. A double fee shall be charged if a sign is erected without first obtaining a permit for such sign.

(c)

Revocation of permit. The community development department is authorized to revoke a sign permit upon failure of the holder thereof to comply with any provision of this chapter.

(d)

Expiration of permit.

(1)

A permit shall expire if the sign is not erected within 180 days after issuance and no permit fees or inspection fees for such sign shall be refunded.

(2)

A permit shall expire if the use of a sign has been discontinued for a period of 180 days.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.10; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

(a)

The zoning administrator shall remove any sign immediately and without notice if it reasonably appears that the condition of the sign is such as to present an immediate threat to the safety of the public. Any cost of removal incurred by the city shall be assessed to the owner of the property on which such sign is located or may be collected in appropriate legal proceedings.

(b)

Signs in violation of this subpart placed on public property or in the public right-of-way are subject to immediate removal.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.12; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

(a)

The purpose of temporary signage is to allow businesses, institutions, and organizations to promote events, products, and services for a limited time through obtainment of a temporary sign permit.

(b)

General standards.

(1)

Temporary signage allocations are per parcel.

(2)

Temporary signs must follow all standards under section 133-5.

(3)

Signs allowed under section 133-6 count towards the maximum signage allowed with a temporary sign permit.

(c)

Temporary sign permit. Temporary sign permits are intended to allow businesses and institutions to advertise promotions, events, or services for a limited time on their property, subject to the following standards:

(1)

Permits shall be issued for no more than four weeks per calendar year. Permits shall be issued for a period of no less than seven days at a time.

(2)

The number of temporary signs shall be limited to the following maximum number and types of signs:

a.

Two banners, each measuring no more than 32 square feet.

b.

Two feather signs, each measuring no more than 3.5 feet wide and 18 feet in height.

c.

Five H-frame, A-frame, or other freestanding signage, each limited to no more than six square feet in area.

(d)

Special event temporary sign permit. Special event temporary sign permits are intended to allow businesses more types of signage for special events or larger promotional activities, subject to the following standards:

(1)

Permits for special events shall be issued for no more than two weeks per calendar year. Permits shall be issued for a period of no less than seven days at a time.

(2)

The number of special event signs shall be limited to the following maximum number and type:

a.

One portable sign no more than 48 square feet.

b.

Three banners, each measuring no more than 80 square feet.

c.

Five feather signs, each measuring no more than 3.5 feet wide and 18 feet in height.

d.

Five H-frame, A-frame, or other freestanding signage, each measuring no more than six square feet in area.

(e)

The fee for temporary sign permits shall be established in accordance with the city's adopted fee schedule. The fee for religious institutions, schools, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies is waived.

(f)

The zoning administrator has the authority to allow substitutions or exchanges of the types of signage. In no instance shall the maximum number or square footage of temporary signs be exceeded.

(g)

New businesses are allowed two additional weeks of temporary signage.

(h)

The zoning administrator shall be authorized to issue a temporary conditional administrative permit to alleviate hardships associated with public road construction projects.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.13; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 90-1184, 2-1-1990; Ord. No. 92-1279, 2-20-1992; Ord. No. 03-1984, 6-5-2003; Ord. No. 04-2022, 7-15-2004; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020; Ord. No. 25-2582, § 34.13, 7-21-2025)

(a)

It shall be the responsibility of the zoning administrator to administer and enforce the provisions of this chapter.

(b)

If any provision of this subpart shall be adjudged void or of no effect, for any reason whatsoever, such decision shall not affect the validity of any of the other provisions of this subpart.

(c)

It is unlawful for any person or entity to erect, alter, repair, move, equip, or maintain any sign or sign structure or cause or permit the same to be done in violation of any of the provisions of this subpart.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.14; Ord. No. 86-934, 6-5-1986; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

(a)

Signs shall be posted on sites which are the subject of certain development proposals or zoning amendments to city land use regulations, in addition to other notification procedures in accordance with the following: Announcement signs shall be designed, acquired, maintained, installed, and removed by the city. Materials and procedures necessary to implement this section shall be implemented under the director of community development.

(b)

The sign shall be installed on all sites involving the following: proposed amendments to the zoning classification and applications for preliminary plats.

(c)

Signs required by this section shall be posted on the site to be visible by the general public at least ten calendar days prior to the public hearing. The signs shall be removed following the public hearing.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.15; Ord. No. 99-1766, 1-21-1999; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)

Signs containing noncommercial speech are permitted anywhere that advertising or business signs are permitted, subject to the same regulations applicable to such signs.

(Code 2004, pt. 3, § 34.16; Ord. No. 20-2447, 7-20-2020)