11-1.1.

Intent. This chapter regulates both permanent signage and temporary signage, and specifies which signs are exempt from regulation or prohibited. The intent of this chapter is to:

a.

Balance the rights of individuals to convey their messages through signs with the right of the public to be protected against the unrestricted proliferation of signs;

b.

Protect public health, safety, and welfare;

c.

Reduce traffic and pedestrian hazards;

d.

Protect property values by minimizing the possible adverse effects and visual blight caused by signs;

e.

Promote economic development; and

f.

Ensure the fair and consistent enforcement of sign regulations.

11-1.2.

Applicability. These standards shall apply to all signs within the city under the following situations:

a.

Newly Constructed or Substantially Altered Signage. All new signs and substantially altered signs. Substantially altered signs includes any structural changes, changes in shape, changes in size, and changes in any major component of the sign (sign box, pole, base).

b.

Not Applicable. The following activities, shall not be considered a substantial alteration and shall not require a permit:

1.

The changing of facial panels or letters on an existing sign and/or outdoor advertising sign.

2.

The changing of changeable letter panels, specifically designed for the use of replaceable copy.

3.

The painting, repainting, cleaning, and/or normal maintenance and/or repair of a sign, sign structure, and/ or outdoor advertising sign except when structural changes occur.

11-1.3.

Sign Permit Required.

a.

When compliance with this chapter is required per 11-1.2, an applicant must submit an application for a sign permit except where expressly exempt from such application by this chapter. Refer to 11-2. Exempt Signs.

b.

Subject to the provisions of this chapter, signs shall be constructed, erected, installed, reconstructed, relocated, enlarged, illuminated, and/or substantially altered, only upon the issuance of a valid permit by the City of Chicago Heights Code Enforcement Division.

11-1.4.

Existing Signs. As of the effective date of this Ordinance, all lawfully existing signs and/or outdoor advertising signs shall be maintained in all respects, but shall not for any reason be enlarged and/or substantially altered.

11-1.5.

Nonconforming Signs. Nonconforming signs are those signs that do not fully comply with the minimum requirements of this chapter. The following applies to existing signs per 11-1.4 and those signs existing on property annexed to the city at a later date, and which was constructed, in full compliance with all applicable laws, codes, and/or regulations in effect at the time of construction.

a.

Repair and/or replacement. Signs determined to be nonconforming, shall be removed, or made to fully comply with the provisions of this chapter, when any proposed change, repair, or maintenance would constitute an expense greater than 50 percent of the sign's original cost, or the replacement cost of the sign, whichever is less.

b.

Substantially Altered. Nonconforming signs shall not be enlarged, or substantially altered, in such a manner as to increase the extent of the existing nonconforming condition.

c.

Changing copy and/or messages. The changing of advertising copy, facial panels, changeable letter panels or bulletin boards, or other such messages on an existing nonconforming sign or outdoor advertising sign, shall be permitted provided such activity and/or change does not create new nonconformities.

d.

Nonconforming signs. Nonconforming signs may not be converted to use an electronic or multi-vision display.

e.

Destroyed Signs.

1.

For the purposes of this chapter, nonconforming signs shall be deemed destroyed when damaged to an extent that the cost of restoring and/or repairing the sign, equals or exceeds the replacement cost of the sign.

2.

Nonconforming signs destroyed by casualty, shall not be repaired, reconstructed, or replaced except in a manner resulting in full compliance with the provisions of this chapter.

3.

Remnants of nonconforming signs, and/or their supporting structures, shall be removed in their entirety.

f.

Lots without Frontage. A zoning lot having no frontage, shall be permitted signs in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, provided said sign is oriented towards the public right-of-way closest to said zoning lot's boundary. Signs shall be restricted to a single public right-of-way, and/or, the closest lot line to said public right-of-way, for determining the total signs permitted.

g.

Moving, relocating, and/or replacement. Nonconforming signs shall not be moved, relocated, and/or replaced, except in a manner resulting in full compliance with the provisions of this chapter.

11-1.6.

Abandoned Signs.

a.

A sign which is not a temporary sign shall be deemed to be abandoned when one of the following occurs:

1.

The business, service, product, or activity being advertised has ceased to exist for a period of 6 months or more;

2.

The sign has not been utilized for a period of 6 months or more; or

3.

The sign is a nonconforming sign and the owner has been notified by the zoning officer of the need to conform to these regulations.

b.

Abandoned signs shall be completely removed and the site of such sign shall be restored within one month of the date the zoning enforcement officer gives notice of such designation to the owner of the sign.

11-1.7.

Sign Location. Unless otherwise specified, signs shall only be located within the boundaries of the lot and not in the right-of-way or on public property.

a.

Off-Premises Signs. Signs shall be located upon the lot where the activity is taking place, unless otherwise allowed in this chapter and approved as part of a sign permit.

b.

Extension into Right-of-Way. Certain sign types may extend beyond a property line into the right-of-way or public property with permission from the city and in accordance with the regulations outlined in this section.

c.

No sign shall be attached to a utility pole, tree, standpipe, gutter, or drain.

d.

Signs shall be erected so as to permit free ingress to or egress from any door, window, roof, or any other exitway required by the building code or by fire department regulations.

e.

Visibility requirements. Signs shall be located in a manner which does not obstruct, or substantially interfere with, the sight lines used by pedestrians and/or motorists, to cross streets, proceed safely through intersections, or to enter or exit from public or private rights-of-way.

f.

Traffic Signs. No sign shall be erected or maintained in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision of, interfere with, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device.

11-1.8.

Content Neutrality.

a.

Any sign allowed under this chapter may contain, in lieu of any other message or copy, any lawful noncommercial message that does not direct attention to a business operated for profit, or to a product, commodity or service for sale or lease, or to any other commercial interest or activity, as long as the sign complies with all size, height, location and other applicable requirements of this article.

b.

The purpose of this "content neutrality" provision is to avoid any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message.

c.

This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signs on a lot or allow the substitution of an off-premises advertising sign for an on-premises sign.

11-1.9.

Illumination. All signs shall be illuminated according to the following provisions unless otherwise stated.

a.

Signs shall be illuminated only by steady, stationary light sources directed solely at the sign or internal to it.

b.

Individual letters or logos may be internally illuminated as permitted per each sign type; no other portion of the sign shall be internally illuminated.

c.

When an external artificial light source is used to illuminate a sign, the lamp (or bulb) shall be located, shielded, and directed so as to not be visible from any public street or private residence.

1.

No receptacle or device housing a permitted light source which is attached to the sign itself shall extend more than 18 inches from the face of the sign.

2.

Gooseneck reflectors and lights shall be permitted on permanent freestanding sign, wall signs, projecting signs and roof signs, provided that any such reflectors or lights shall be installed only in a manner such that the direct rays of such reflectors or lights are concentrated on the sign and are directed, shielded or otherwise constructed so as to avoid any glare on the adjacent street or adjacent properties.

3.

If ground lighting is used to illuminate a sign, the receptacle or device should not extend more than 12 inches above ground and must be fully screened and housed.

d.

Illumination and movement. The light from every illuminated sign shall be shaded, shielded or directed so that direct or indirect illumination therefrom, measured at any lot line adjacent to a residential district, will not exceed 0.1 foot candles. Except for electronic displays per 11-16, in no case shall the lighting intensity of any sign exceed 150 foot Lamberts measured with a light meter having an accuracy rating determined by regulation of the enforcement officer.

e.

All electrical components shall conform to the electrical code of the city.

f.

In no case, shall electrical wiring, bulbs exceeding 15 watts, and other internal components be exposed to the view or access by the public.

11-1.10.

Construction, Design, and Maintenance Standards.

a.

All signs shall meet the construction, design standards, and maintenance requirements of all applicable building codes, as adopted by the City.

b.

All permanent exterior signs shall be designed to withstand a wind pressure of not less than 30 pounds per square foot of area.

c.

All signs, together with their supporting structure, shall be kept in good repair and in safe condition. The owner of the premises on which a sign is erected or located shall be directly responsible for keeping such sign and premises in a safe and neat condition.

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-2.1.

General Requirements. Exempt signs meeting the standards of this section are subject to the following:

a.

Exempt signs are permitted in all districts.

b.

Exempt signs do not require a sign permit for installation, unless otherwise specified.

c.

Exempt signs are not required to meet any sign type standards, unless otherwise specified.

d.

Exempt signs are not counted in the determination of the total permitted area of signage on a lot per the requirements of Table 11.2, Maximum Total Quantity of Signs Permitted by District.

11-2.2.

Exempt Signs. The following are considered exempt signs.

a.

Identification Signs.

1.

Identification signs indicating names of residents and dwelling or dwelling unit numbers shall have a maximum area of one square foot, and shall be limited to one sign per abutting streetface. per dwelling unit.

2.

Identification signs indicating the name and purpose of a structure and the name of its management shall have a maximum area of 3 square feet ^[2], and shall be limited to one sign per abutting streetface. per structure.

b.

Hours of Operation. Hours of operation, not exceeding 2 square feet in area, or availability of lodging (vacancy or no vacancy signs).

c.

Official Signs. Any official sign, public notice sign, or warning sign required by a valid and applicable federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance or by order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

d.

Public Service Signs. Signs used for safety purposes relative to the repair or maintenance of streets, sidewalks, or utilities in a public right-of-way.

e.

Traffic Control Signs. Traffic and other official signs of any public or governmental agency, such as traffic control signs, railroad crossing signs, trespass signs, signs indicating danger, or signs used as aids to service or safety.

f.

Flags. A sign made of fabric or other similar non-rigid material supported or anchored along only one edge or supported or anchored at only 2 corners.

1.

One or 2 flags may be displayed per lot without a sign permit, provided that any flagpole used to mount such flag or flags complies with section 6-3.5 of chapter 6, regulating flag poles as an accessory outdoor structure.

2.

All flags shall be counted towards the maximum signage per lot.

g.

Signs Inside Buildings. Any sign which is located completely within an enclosed building, when such sign is not readable from 10 feet or more outside the building.

h.

Informational Signs. Any sign not exceeding 4 square feet and not legible beyond the property line of the lot upon which it is situated or from any right-of-way and signs oriented inward upon a lot and intended solely for the information of employees, students, faculty, or visitors.

i.

Directional Signs. Signs directing vehicular ingress and egress to off-street parking facilities. These signs shall meet the following requirements:

1.

No more than 2 signs are permitted for each lot per right-of-way frontage.

2.

One sign per parking lot per right-of-way frontage identifying the facilities and the conditions of use.

3.

Each sign face shall not exceed 2 square feet in area.

4.

Signs shall not exceed 3 feet in height. ^[3]

5.

Signs shall be set back a minimum of 2 feet from property lines and are not permitted to overhang any property line.

6.

Logos or other advertising are not permitted.

7.

A sign permit is required.

j.

Historical Markers. Memorial signs, tablets, or cornerstones including the name of building or date of erection, when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials.

1.

Historical markers shall not exceed 4 square feet in area.

2.

Historical markers may be placed only by a bona fide historical organization or by a governmental agency.

k.

Temporary Decorations or Displays. Temporary decorations or displays celebrating the occasion of traditionally accepted patriotic, ethnic, or religious holidays, as well as national, state, and city holidays as differentiated from temporary signs regulated by 11-3.

l.

Signs for a Home Occupations. These signs shall meet the following requirements:

1.

One sign per dwelling unit is permitted.

2.

Sign shall be mounted flat against the building.

3.

Sign shall be no larger than one square foot in area.

4.

Sign shall not be directly or indirectly illuminated other than by those lights incidental to the residential use of the premises.

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-3.1.

General Requirements. These signs are temporarily permitted for promoting special community or non-profit activities, special events, or grand openings for businesses. Temporary signs shall adhere to the following general requirements, unless otherwise specified.

a.

Permitted Display Time.

1.

Temporary signs shall be permitted only for a period of 30 days prior to and including the duration of the activity which such sign describes, except where specific permissions are stated in 11-3.2, Temporary Sign Types.

2.

Temporary signs shall be removed within one week after the completion of the activity which the sign describes.

3.

Once removed, a temporary sign shall not be reinstalled on same lot until after the expiration of an interim period of 90 days, provided, however, that nothing shall prohibit a property owner from erecting a new temporary sign on a lot or building currently posted for sale or lease, defined in 11-3.2.

b.

Location. The following regulations apply to locating temporary signs.

1.

Temporary signs shall be allowed in all districts.

2.

Temporary signs must be located on private property and shall not be posted, attached or placed on any tree, utility pole, street sign post, light post, or any official traffic control sign or signal post on the public right-of-way.

3.

Temporary signs located within the public right-of-way may be removed by the city.

4.

In all R districts, temporary signs shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from any property line.

c.

Quantity. One temporary sign is permitted per lot frontage on a public right-of-way per permitted display period.

d.

Size. All temporary signage on a lot shall not exceed an area greater than 18 square feet at one time and is not counted in the determination of the total permitted area of signage on a lot.

1.

In all R districts, all temporary signs shall be no greater than 9 square feet in area.

e.

Maintenance and Materials. All temporary signs must be properly maintained and of a material able to withstand the elements.

f.

Attachment. No temporary sign shall be permanently attached.

g.

Permit Required. The display of all temporary signs erected in conformance with this section requires a permit per 11-1.3.3

h.

General Sign Requirements. The general requirements for signs per 11-1 shall apply to all temporary signs.

11-3.2.

Temporary Sign Types. The following are permitted types of temporary signs. Requirements defined in 11-3.1. General Requirements, above, shall be met, unless otherwise specified below.

a.

Real Estate Signs. One temporary sign is allowed on each lot or portion of a lot that is actively being marketed for sale, rental or lease. Such signs may not exceed 6 square feet in area or 4 feet in height.

1.

Permitted Display Time. Real estate signs are permitted for the period during which the property is actively marketed for sale, rental, or lease.

2.

Size. Real estate signs shall not exceed 6 square feet in area, except for the following pertaining to non-residential uses:

(a)

Lots with 100 to 300 feet of frontage. Real estate signs for properties with lot frontages between 100 and 300 feet shall not exceed 12 square feet, in total, per lot frontage.

(b)

Lots with over 300 feet of frontage. Real estate signs for properties with lot frontages over 300 feet shall not exceed 24 square feet, in total, per lot frontage.

3.

Height. The maximum height of such signs is 4 feet.

4.

Permit. A permit is required only for signs larger than 6 square feet in area.

b.

Construction Signs. Temporary signs are allowed on lots on which building or construction is actively occurring, as evidenced by a valid building permit.

1.

Permitted Display Time. Signs shall be removed no later than 10 days after issuance of a certificate of occupancy.

2.

Size. A total sign area up to 48 square feet is permitted in non-residential and mixed-use districts, and 12 square feet in residential districts without a permit.

3.

Quantity. One sign is permitted per street frontage for each construction project.

4.

Height. The maximum height of such signs is 6 feet.

c.

Special Event Signs. Temporary signs are allowed on lots on which a business or organizational special event is actively occurring.

1.

Permitted Display Time. Signs shall be displayed for no more than consecutive 30 days and removed no later than 7 days after completion of the special event. One special event is permitted per lot per calendar year.

2.

Size. The size of special event signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in area, in total for the lot, without a permit.

3.

Permit. A permit is required for all special event signs larger than 16 square feet in area, in total for the lot. The zoning officer has discretion to approve a special event sign that exceeds the size and height otherwise allowed by this section based on the specific characteristics of the project and site.

d.

Window Signs. Temporary window signs are those signs that do not exceed 2 square foot in size, are located wholly in the window of the structure housing the use being referenced by the sign, and are composed of paper or other temporary materials not specified in Table 11.9, Window Sign Requirements, pertaining to permanent window signs.

1.

Multiple Signs. Multiple temporary window signs are considered one sign for the purposes of computing the quantity of temporary signs on a lot.

2.

Permit. No permit shall be required.

3.

Quantity. The combined total of permanent and temporary window signs shall not exceed the allowed quantity for permanent window signs per Table 11.9, Window Sign Requirements.

e.

Sandwich Board Signs. A sandwich board is a set of 2 signs set up in a triangular shape and hinged along the top or a T-frame or I-frame sign.

1.

Permitted Display Time. Sandwich boards are not restricted to the 30-day display time restriction.

(a)

Signs shall only be displayed during business hours and must be removed by close of business each day.

(b)

Signs shall not be displayed when winds exceed 20 miles per hour.

2.

Location. Sandwich board signs may be located in the right-of-way in the B and MX districts where the pedestrian walkway is at least 5 feet in width and shall not be placed within 10 feet of an intersection or crosswalk. Such sign location is subject to approval by the zoning officer.

(a)

Sandwich board signs shall be located within 15 feet of the entrance to the business and no more than one foot from the building line.

(b)

Signs shall not be attached to the sidewalk or to city-owned property, including, but not limited to, electric light poles and traffic signs.

3.

Size. Signs shall not be greater than 3 feet in height and no more than 6 square feet in area per sign face.

4.

Quantity. No more than one sandwich board sign is permitted per building lot.

5.

Materials. Signs shall be constructed of wood, metal, or other durable materials to withstand the elements. Signs shall not be reflective.

6.

Liability. The owner of any sandwich board sign has an absolute duty to prevent such sign from causing any property damage or personal injuries.

f.

Banners. A sign made of fabric or other similar non-rigid material with no enclosing framework or electrical components that is supported or anchored on 2 or more edges or at all 4 corners.

1.

Permit. A permit shall be required for all banners, other than banners that are used as construction signs and political signs that are allowed as of right without a permit in accordance with this section 11-3, Temporary Signs.

2.

Requirements per Use or District.

(a)

Multi-Unit Dwelling Uses. Temporary banners are allowed on lots with Multi-Unit Dwelling buildings, provided that no more than one temporary banner is allowed for each 50 dwelling units in the building, up to a maximum of 3 banners. Temporary banners may not exceed 32 square feet in area and no more than one may be attached to each building wall. The mounted height of the temporary banner may not exceed 24 feet. Temporary banners on multi-unit buildings may be in place for no more than 60 days in any calendar year.

(b)

Non-residential Uses. One temporary banner is allowed on lots with allowed non-residential uses. Such banners may not exceed 32 square feet in area and may remain in place for no more than 60 days per calendar year.

3.

Location. Banners must be mounted to the face of a building and may not cover any window or other building opening.

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-4.1.

General Requirements. Prohibited signs shall not be constructed in any district.

11-4.2.

Prohibited Signs. The following signs are prohibited:

a.

Animated or Moving Signs. Signs not erected by bona fide public traffic officials which move or give the appearance of movement, including, but not limited to, signs which flutter, undulate, swing, rotate, oscillate, or otherwise move by natural or artificial means. Moving signs shall not include flags, signs displaying time and temperature, and electronic message board signs as permitted in this section.

b.

Flashing Lights. Flashing signs, flashing or moving lights on signs, and reflective pennants are prohibited, except that both signs that exhibit time, temperature, date or other similar information and search lights permitted by the zoning enforcement officer as an attention getting device are permitted.

c.

Linear Lighting. Outlining buildings or premises by use of exposed neon tubing, strings of lights, or by any similar method is prohibited.

d.

Similarity to Traffic Control Signs. Signs that include words such as "Stop", "Danger", "Warning", "Caution", or "Go Slow," unless such language is part of the name of the business, or any other words, phrases, symbols, or characters that imitate any authorized traffic sign by shape, color, or character or employs any red, yellow, green, or other colored lamps or lights in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.

e.

Vehicles as Signs. Any sign attached to or placed on a vehicle or trailer parked on public or private property that is prominently visible from public streets, except during the following conditions:

1.

The primary purpose of such a vehicle or trailer is not the display of signs.

2.

The vehicle or trailer is in operating condition, currently registered and licensed to operate on public streets, and actively used or available for use in the daily function of the business to which such signs relate.

f.

Portable or Wheeled Signs. Any sign permanently mounted on wheels.

g.

Inflatable or Balloon Signs. Temporary or permanent signs that are inflatable or balloon-like are not permitted.

h.

Off-Site Advertising. Signs utilized to market, promote, or draw attention to an activity, business, person, entity, or thing not located or offered on the site on which the sign is located, are prohibited.

i.

Signs with Sound. Signs that emit or utilize in any manner any sound capable of being detected from any public right-of-way by a person with normal hearing.

j.

Rope Lighting. Rope lighting, or other similar linear lighting with small lights (usually incandescent bulbs or light emitting diodes (LEDs)) covered in heavy-duty plastic tubing, and installed to outline signs, merchandise, windows, buildings, or building elements, where such lighting is intended to be visible from the exterior of the building, is prohibited.

k.

Other Signs. Signs not addressed in this section shall not be permitted.

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-5.1.

Permitted Sign Types by District. Table 11.1 establishes the sign types permitted and permitted with conditions by district.

a.

Exempt/Temporary Signs. Table 11.1 does not apply to exempt (see 11-2, Exempt Signs) or temporary signs (see 11-3. Temporary Signs) unless otherwise specified.

b.

Prohibited Signs. In addition to the signs listed in 11-4, Prohibited Signs, when a sign type is not listed as permitted or permitted with conditions in the district on Table 11.1, the sign is prohibited in the district.

c.

Organization of Multiple Signs on a Facade. Multiple signs on a facade shall be organized in a coherent way and located in a space on the facade designated for signs. The application of signs to a facade without any reference to architectural features or alignment of signs is not permitted.

11-5.2.

Maximum Quantity of Signs Permitted by District. Table 11.2 establishes the overall maximum amount of signage of all types permitted on a lot within each district. The quantity and size of signage shall be calculated per 11-5.3, Computation.

a.

Exempt/Temporary Signs. Table 11.2 does not apply to exempt (see 11-2, Exempt Signs) or temporary signs (see 11-3. Temporary Signs), unless otherwise specified.

b.

Window Signs. Window Signs shall not count towards a lot's maximum permitted amount of signage. Refer to 11-12. Window Signs.

c.

Through Lots. In addition to the maximum amount of signage permitted per lot, through lots may incorporate an additional 30 square feet of signage permitted for the lot located in either the rear yard or along the rear facade, provided the rear does not face an R district.

d.

Corner Lots. In addition to the maximum amount of signage permitted per lot, corner lots may incorporate an additional 1.5 square feet per 1 linear foot of corner side lot length with a maximum of 100 square feet, with the exception of Residential and Lodging Uses.

11-5.3.

Computation. The following standards generally apply to computing the area and height of signs by type and by building lot:

a.

Sign Area. Refer to the Sign Types 11-6 through 11-14 for calculation of sign area per sign type.

1.

Exempt and temporary signs are not included in the maximum signage area calculations, unless otherwise specified.

2.

For the purposes of determining area, lot width or frontage is measured along the front property line.

(a)

If the lot is a corner lot, the width shall be measured along the front yard.

(b)

Building frontage is the width of the front facade of a building.

b.

Sign Height.

1.

The height of a sign shall be measured as the vertical distance from the grade at the adjacent public sidewalk of the sign to the top of the highest component of the sign.

2.

The ground clearance of a sign under these regulations shall be measured as the vertical distance from the grade at the base of the sign to the top of the lowest component of the sign.

3.

For the purposes of this article, grade shall be computed as the average finished ground level of the land around the base of the sign, exclusive of any filling, berming, mounding, or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the sign.

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-6.1.

Description. Wall Signs, also known as flat or band signs, are mounted directly to the building face to which the sign is parallel. Refer to Figure 11-6(1) for an example illustration of a wall sign.

11-6.2.

General Requirements. Wall Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.3.

a.

Building Openings. Wall Signs shall not cover windows or other building openings.

b.

Architectural Features. Wall Signs shall not cover significant architectural building features, such as sculptural elements, windows, doors, cornices, or other expression lines.

c.

Electronic Display. Refer to 11-16.

11-6.3.

Computation. The area of a Wall Sign is calculated using the following information.

a.

Wall Signs. Area is calculated by drawing the smallest possible square or rectangle around the largest letters and/or graphic elements, as is illustrated in Figure 11-6(2).

1.

Area Credit. All areas that utilize individual alphanumeric characters or logos (including only those using wood, wood substitute, metal, or masonry) may use a total area of 90 percent of the calculation as outlined above.

Figure 11-6(2). Area Calculation for Wall Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-7.1.

Description. A Projecting Sign is attached to and projects from a building face or hangs from a support structure attached to the building face. Sign faces are typically perpendicular to the building face, but may be at an angle greater than 45 degrees from the facade. The sign may be vertically or horizontally oriented. Refer to Figure 11-7(1) for an example illustration of a wall sign.

11-7.2.

General Requirements. Projecting Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.4.

11-7.3.

Computation. The area of a Projecting Sign is equal to the area of one of the sign's faces. Refer to Figure 11-7(2).

Figure 11-7(2). Area Calculation for Projecting Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-8.1.

Description. A Projecting Marquee Sign is a projecting sign designed to have manually changeable copy or, where permitted, electronic displays, and 2 to 3 sign faces. Refer to Figure 11-8(1) for an example illustration of an awning sign.

11-8.2.

General Requirements. Projecting Marquee Signs shall be developed according to the standards in this section and Table 11.5, Figure 11-7(1), Example of Projecting Sign.

a.

Manually Changeable Copy Boards. Manually Changeable Copy Boards are permitted on Projecting Marquee Signs, provided the following conditions are met:

1.

The area of the boards cannot be greater than 30 percent of the area of the sign face on which it is located or 32 square feet, whichever is less.

2.

One sign of any type containing a Manually Changeable Copy Board is permitted per lot.

b.

Electronic Display. Refer to 11-16.

11-8.3.

Computation. The sign area is calculated by combining the area of all exposed sign faces and the cabinet or structure surrounding them.

Figure 11-8(1). Examples of Projecting Marquee Signs

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-9.1.

Description. A sign that is mounted, painted, or otherwise applied on or attached to an awning or canopy. Refer to Figure 11-9(1) for an example illustration of an awning sign.

11-9.2.

General Requirements. Awning Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.6. For MX districts, see also 7-12.9, Windows, Awnings, & Shutters.

11-9.3.

Computation. The area of an Awning Sign is calculated by drawing the smallest possible square or rectangle around the largest letters and/or elements of the sign portion of the awning, as is illustrated in Figure 11-9(2).

Figure 11-9(2). Area Calculation for Awning Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-10.1.

Description. A sign with individual alphanumeric characters and/or logos that is mounted on top of a permanent canopy. Refer to Figure 11-10(1) for an example illustration of an awning sign.

11-10.2.

General Requirements. Canopy-Mounted Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.7.

11-10.3.

Computation. The area of a Canopy-Mounted Sign is calculated by drawing the smallest possible square or rectangle around the largest letters and/or elements of the sign portion of the Canopy-Mounted Sign, as is illustrated in Figure 11-10(2).

Figure 11-10(2). Area Calculation for Canopy-Mounted Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-11.1.

Description. A Roof Sign consists of individual letters or elements. It is erected on the roof of a building and projects above the highest point of the roof line or parapet of the building. It is typically situated parallel to the adjacent street and does not project beyond the front facade of the building. Refer to Figure 11-11(1) for an example illustration of an awning sign.

11-11.2.

General Requirements. Roof Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.8.

11-11.3.

Computation. The area of a Roof Sign is calculated by drawing the smallest possible square or rectangle around the largest letters and/or elements as is illustrated in Figure 11-11(2).

Figure 11-11(2). Area Calculation for Roof Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-12.1.

Description. A Window Sign is painted, placed, or affixed in or on a window exposed for public view or is a sign hung inside the building facing the window for public view. Figure 11-12(1) for an example illustration of an awning sign.

11-12.2.

General Requirements. Window Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.9.

11-12.3.

Computation. A series of windows that are separated by frames or supporting material of less than 6 inches in width shall be considered a single window for the purposes of computation.

a.

Measurement. To measure sign area percentage, divide the total sign area, by the total window area, as illustrated in Figure 11-12(2).

1.

Sign area is calculated by drawing the smallest possible square or rectangle around the largest letters and/or elements.

b.

Maximum Allowance. Window Signs are not counted toward a lot's maximum signage allowance per Table 11.2. Maximum Total Quantity of Signs Permitted by District.

c.

Exempt Signs. Address and hours of operation are considered exempt signs and are not counted in the Window Sign area calculation. Refer to 11-2, Exempt Signs.

d.

Temporary Window Signs. Temporary Window Signs must be included in the total percentage of signage per window calculation per Table 11.9. Refer also to 11-3.2, Temporary Sign Types.

Figure 11-12(2). Area Calculation for Window Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-13.1.

Description. A Monument Sign is freestanding; it is located in a front or side yard of a lot. Refer to Figure 11-13(1) for an example illustration of an awning sign.

11-13.2.

General Requirements. Monument Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.10.

a.

Multiple Tenants. Multiple tenant buildings on a lot with a width of greater than 300 feet, measured across the front property line, may have signage with the following parameters:

1.

Up to 2 Monument Signs on one frontage.

2.

Signs shall be at least 150 feet apart.

b.

Pole-Mounted Signs. Monument Signs may not be pole-mounted.

c.

Manually Changeable Copy. The area of any Manually Changeable Copy Board cannot equal greater than 50 percent of the area of the sign face on which it is located or 20 square feet, whichever is less.

11-13.3.

Computation. Sign area is calculated per sign face. This measurement includes the sign, any cabinet in which it is enclosed and any changing sign portions, but excludes the base of the sign. Refer to Figure 11-13(2).

a.

Measuring Height. Height shall include the sign face, base, cabinet, and ornamental cap and is measured from the closest public sidewalk elevation.

Figure 11-13(2). Area Calculation for Monument Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-14.1.

Description. A Ped-Scale Pole-Mounted Sign is freestanding and may be mounted on 1 or 2 poles. Three configurations are permitted. Refer to Figure 11-14(2) for an example illustration of a ped-scale pole-mounted sign.

a.

A sign mounted onto a double set of poles.

b.

A sign mounted on a single pole.

c.

A sign hanging from a single pole.

Figure 11-14(2). Examples of Ped-Scale Pole-Mounted Signs

11-14.2.

General Requirements. Ped-Scale Pole-Mounted Signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.11.

11-14.3.

Computation. The area of a Pole-Mounted Sign is equal to the area of one sign face. Refer to Figure 11-14(1).

Figure 11-14(1). Area Calculation for Ped-Scale Pole-Mounted Sign

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-15.1.

Description. A multi-tenant monument sign is a large-scale freestanding monument sign with a one- or two-faced sign panel. Refer to Figure 11-15(1) for an example illustration of a multi-tenant monument sign.

11-15.2.

Use Limitations. The multi-tenant monument sign is the only freestanding signage permitted in the following situations. When utilized, no other freestanding signs are permitted on any affected parcels.

a.

Multi-Tenant Center. When a commercial development will have 3 or more tenants and occupies more than 300 feet of street frontage, this sign may be used.

b.

No other freestanding signs are permitted on any included parcels.

11-15.3.

General Requirements. Multi-tenant monument signs shall be developed according to the standards in Table 11.12.

a.

Pole-Mounted Signs. Monument signs may not be pole-mounted.

b.

Manually Changeable Copy. The area of any manually changeable copy cannot equal greater than 30 percent of the area of the sign face on which it is located or 20 square feet, whichever is less.

c.

Additional Requirements.

1.

Residential District. The sign may not be visible from any residential district.

2.

Sign shall serve a minimum of 5 tenant spaces.

3.

Street. The sign must front on a street with a right-of-way 80 feet or larger in width.

4.

Lot Line. The sign must be on a combined lot line of 1,200 square feet or more.

5.

Only one sign is permitted on the subject street frontage.

11-15.4.

Computation.

a.

The area of a multi-tenant monument sign is equal to the area of one (1) sign face, including the changeable copy board, but excludes the base of the sign.

b.

Calculating Total Sign Area. The portion of a multi-tenant monument sign attributed to a specific tenant shall count toward the total allowable sign area for that lot, per Table 6.130.F-2.

c.

Measuring Height. Height shall include the sign face, base, cabinet, and ornamental cap.

d.

Height from Grade. Height shall be measured from the grade level of the curb of the street closest to the sign. The level of the ground shall not be altered in such a way as to provide additional sign height.

Figure 11-15(1). Example of Multi-Tenant Monument Signs

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-16.1.

Applicability. The regulations of this section apply to electronic displays, also referred to as dynamic displays, multi-vision displays, or digital signage.

11-16.2.

Sign Type and Area. Refer to 11-6 through 11-14 for sign types allowing the use of electronic display and additional regulations for their use.

11-16.3.

Display Type. Signs may not display full-motion video or otherwise use multiple pictures or graphics in a series of frames to give the illusion of motion or video. This provision is intended to prohibit television screens, plasma screens, LED screens and holographic displays and other technology used to display video images.

11-16.4.

Dwell Time. The images and messages displayed on electronic displays and multi-vision displays must have a minimum dwell time of at least 8 seconds before changing to the next image or message. This dwell time regulation supersedes any more restrictive regulation applicable to a previously approved electronic display or multi-vision display.

11-16.5.

Transition. The transition or change from one message to another must occur in one second or less and involve no animation or special effects.

11-16.6.

Illumination.

a.

The brightness of any electronic display may not exceed a maximum illumination of 5,000 candelas per square meter (nits) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 500 candelas per square meter (nits) between dusk to dawn, as measured from the brightest element on the sign's face.

b.

Electronic displays must be equipped with a light detector/photocell that automatically adjusts the display's brightness according to natural ambient light conditions.

11-16.7.

Separation from Residential.

a.

Electronic displays and multi-vision displays are prohibited within 100 feet of any R or MXR district.

b.

These separation distance requirements do not apply if the electronic display is not visible from the referenced district, area or lot.

c.

Required separation distances must be measured horizontally in a straight line from the nearest point on a sign face to the nearest point of the protected district or lot.

11-16.8.

Future Amendments. Regulations governing dynamic displays are subject to ongoing monitoring and future modification in the exercise of the city's police powers. No vested right is ever created in an existing electronic display. If regulations governing operational aspects of electronic displays (e.g., dwell time, transitions, illumination/brightness, etc.) are modified by the city, then sign owners and operators are required to bring electronic display advertising signs into compliance with all applicable regulations.

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)

11-17.1.

General provisions. New or replacement of existing outdoor advertising signs, as defined in chapter 2, shall meet all of the requirements of this section.

11-17.2.

Permits Required. In addition to a sign permit, a building permit and special use permit are required for erection of a new or replacement of an existing outdoor advertising sign. Refer to Chapter 13, Administration for procedures.

11-17.3.

Restrictions on Location. Outdoor advertising signs may only be permitted with compliance of all of the following location requirements:

a.

Oriented to a Highway. Outdoor advertising signs shall be oriented towards and located within 600 feet of the right-of-way of a state highway.

b.

Zoning District. Outdoor advertising signs shall only be located on lots designated on the official zoning map as an M-2 or M-3 zoning district.

c.

Proximity to Residential. Outdoor advertising signs shall be located a minimum of 500 feet from any lot zoned with an R district.

d.

Proximity to Schools, Parks, Hospitals. Outdoor advertising signs shall be located a minimum of 500 feet from any existing school, public park, or hospital.

e.

Proximity to Other Signs. Outdoor advertising signs shall not be located within 500 feet from another such outdoor advertising sign.

11-17.4.

Lot Requirements.

a.

No more than one outdoor advertising sign shall be located on the lot.

b.

The minimum size of the lot shall be 200 along the highway right-of-way and 200 feet deep.

11-17.5.

Size.

a.

Maximum Area. An outdoor advertising sign shall not exceed a maximum sign surface area of 672 feet per face, nor more than 1,344 square feet per sign.

b.

Maximum Height. Maximum height of any outdoor advertising sign is 75 feet, measured from the top of curb or edge of pavement of the adjacent highway to the top of any part of the sign.

(Ord. No. 2018-6, §§ 1, 2, 2-21-18)