A.

The City Council finds that signs provide an important medium through which persons may convey a variety of noncommercial and commercial messages. However, left completely unregulated, the number, size, design characteristics, and locations of signs in the city can become a threat to public safety as a traffic hazard, a detriment to property values and to the city's general public welfare, as well as create an aesthetic nuisance. The city further finds that signs have become excessive, and that many signs are distracting and dangerous to motorists and pedestrians, and substantially detract from the beauty and appearance of the city. The city finds that there is a substantial need directly related to the public health, safety and welfare to comprehensively address these concerns through the adoption of the following regulations.

B.

The intent of this Article is to further the goals of the City of College Park's Comprehensive Plan; and establish the following purposes:

1.

Balance the rights of individuals to convey their message through signs and the rights of the public to be protected against the unrestricted proliferation of inappropriate signs;

2.

Further the goals, objectives and policies of the comprehensive plan;

3.

Protect the public health, safety, welfare and morals;

4.

Minimize vehicular and pedestrian hazards;

5.

Maintain the historic character of the city;

6.

Maintain an aesthetically attractive city in which signs are compatible with the use patterns of established zoning districts;

7.

Ensure the protection of free speech rights under the State of Georgia and the United States Constitutions within the city;

8.

Place reasonable controls on nonconforming signs that are by definition contrary to public health, safety and welfare while protecting the constitutional rights of the others of said nonconforming signs;

9.

Provide for the maintenance of signs, and for the enforcement of the provisions of this Article;

10.

Protect property values by minimizing the potentially adverse impacts and visual blight potentially created by signs;

11.

Promote economic development; and

12.

Ensure fair and uniform enforcement of sign regulations.

C.

Applicability. The provisions of this Article shall apply to all signs erected within the corporate limits of the city that are directed to be viewed from any outdoor space(s). All erection, construction, enlargement, moving, altering or converting of signs in the city shall be performed in compliance with the requirements of this Article.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

For the purposes of this Article, the definitions contained in the zoning ordinance shall control. In addition, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them below, unless the context clearly indicates a contrary meaning:

Abandoned (or dilapidated) sign. Any sign that contains or exhibits broken panels, visible rust, visible rot, damaged support structures, holes on or in the sign structure, broken, missing, loose or bent parts, faded or flaking paint, non-operative or partially non-operative illumination or mechanical devices or which is otherwise dilapidated, unsightly, unkempt, or which is located on a property or business without an occupational tax certificate.

Aerial view sign. Any sign designed primarily to be viewed from the sky from an airplane, helicopter, etc., including, but is not limited to, any sign horizontally affixed to a roof or attached to a roof such that the sign is not readily viewable from the surrounding ground.

Aggregate sign area. The sum total of the area of any and all signs for a given lot. Entrance signs and subdivision signs shall not be considered in the calculation of aggregate sign area in those districts zoned residential.

Animated sign. A sign that all or any part thereof visibly moves mechanically, and/or as a result of human activity, and/or as a result of air/wind driven inputs, or uses movement or a change of lighting to depict action or to create a special effect or scene. This includes Flashing Signs as defined herein and Tri-Vision signs, but does not include flags, banners or canopies.

Awning sign. Any sign applied directly to or attached directly to an awning of any structure.

Banner. A temporary sign of lightweight fabric, plastic or similar material designed to be hung, either with or without a frame or other structure, from a building or a pole. A flag, as defined in this Article, shall not be considered a banner.

Beacon. See "temporary sign."

Billboard. A permanent freestanding (ground) sign having an area of three hundred (300) square feet or greater.

Canopy sign. See "wall sign."

Decal. A picture, design or label made to be transferred (as to glass, wood, metal or any other hard object) from specially prepared paper.

Decision date. The date upon which the chief building inspector makes a final decision on the approval or denial of a sign permit application.

Double-faced Sign. A sign structure which has two (2) display areas placed back-to-back, parallel to each other, where one (1) sign face is designed to be seen from one (1) direction and the other face from another direction.

Eave. The projecting lower edges of a roof overhanging the wall of a building.

Electronic Sign. A sign whose message may be changed at intervals by electronic process or by remote control, including the device known as a tri-vision sign, LCD sign or LED sign.

Entrance sign. Any ground sign placed at the intersection of a public street and a private entryway into an apartment, condominium, townhouse, office, or commercial or industrial development.

Erect. To build, paint, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend, or affix.

Externally illuminated signs. Any sign illuminated by an external light source directed toward such sign.

Flag. A flag is a sign consisting of fabric or similar material attached at one (1) end to a pole or building and hanging freely such that it may flutter or move in the wind.

Flashing sign. Any sign whose illumination changes in intensity, scrolls, flashes or changes message or appearance more often than once every ten (10) seconds.

Freestanding Sign. Includes A-frame signs, sandwich signs, swinging signs and other similar signs not permanently secured or attached to the ground.

Ground sign. Any sign supported by braces or uprights permanently placed in the ground, and not supported by or suspended from any building.

Hand held signs. Any Animated Sign larger than six (6) inches by six (6) inches carried by a person intending to convey a message to be seen by someone other than the person carrying it.

Height. The vertical distance measured from the surface of the nearest adjacent street at a point on the street centerline nearest to and perpendicular to the proposed location of the sign to the highest point of the sign or sign structure.

Internally illuminated signs. Any sign which has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes located within the interior parts of the sign, and where resultant illumination radiates out in the direction of the viewer.

Median. A paved or landscaped area dividing any public right-of-way into travel lanes aligned parallel to the direction of travel.

Mobile sign. See "temporary sign."

Monument sign. See "ground sign."

Moving sign. See "flashing sign."

Mural. A wall sign executed directly on a wall, covers the entire face area of the wall, which is meant to be decorative in nature, and where architectural elements of a given wall are incorporated harmoniously therein. Murals shall not count toward the maximum permitted sign area.

Neon Sign. A sign composed of exposed, visible neon tubing. Neon signs shall also include signs similar in appearance but illuminated via other gases or liquids similar to neon.

Nonconforming sign. Any sign that does not conform to the provisions of this Article at the date of adoption of the ordinance from which this Article derives.

Parapet sign. See "wall sign."

Portable sign. See temporary sign. As pertains to vehicles regularly used in the course of business or for travel to and from a place of business, such vehicle may display on the vehicle and may be parked in lots serving a place of business, provided that such vehicle is regularly used for transportation. Vehicles parked in commercial lots or on property located in the city for indefinite periods of time and not regularly used in the course of business that display messages shall be considered portable signs.

Primary facade. The exterior wall of the building most nearly parallel to street providing primary access to the lot.

Projecting sign. Any sign attached perpendicular to a building or other structure and extending horizontally more than twelve (12) inches from the plane of the building wall.

Reflectors. Any device created for the purpose of reflecting light directed at the device so as to render the device more visible.

Road frontage. The distance that a lot borders any road or street that provides access to the lot.

Roof line. The highest continuous horizontal line of a roof. On a sloping roof, the roofline is the principal ridgeline, or the highest line common to one (1) or more principal slopes of the roof. On a flat roof, the roofline is the highest continuous line of the roof or parapet, whichever is higher.

Roof sign. A sign that is attached to a building or structure and is displayed above the lowest horizontal line of the roof of a building.

Sandwich sign. A free-standing single or double-faced, hinged or un-hinged, temporary sign designed to be used on a sidewalk or pedestrian way.

Secondary facade. Any exterior wall of a building most nearly parallel to an adjoining street that is not the primary facade.

Sign. Every device, item, product, frame, letter, figure, character, mark, plane, point, design, picture, stroke, stripe, trademark, or reading matter used or intended to be used to attract attention or convey information when placed in view of the general public. For purposes of this Article, the term "sign" shall include the structure upon which a sign face is located. For the purpose of determining number of signs, a single display surface or a single display device containing elements organized, related and composed to form a unit shall be considered to be one (1) sign. Where matters are displayed in a random manner without organized relationship to elements, or where there is reasonable doubt as to the relationship of elements, each element shall be considered to be a single separate sign.

Sign area. The total area within a continuous perimeter utilizing right angles enclosing the limits of writing, representation, emblem, or any figure of similar character together with any frame, other material, open space, or color forming an integral part of the display or used to differentiate such sign from the background against which it is placed. For double-face signs, the side with the largest sign area shall be used in computing sign area. If the two (2) faces of a double-face sign area of unequal area, the sign area shall be the area of the larger face.

Sign face. See "sign area."

Promotional event. Any planned occurrence which does not take place on a daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly basis and is designed as a celebration or an irregular occurrence. Examples of a promotional event include: grand openings, seasonal sales, liquidations, going-out-of-business sales, vehicle shows or displays, craft shows, rummage sales, bake sales and festivals.

Standard informational sign. Any temporary sign containing no reflective elements, flags or attachments that are not rectangular in proportion supported by braces, stakes, metal frames or uprights not greater than three and one-half (3½) inches, placed into the ground, and not supported by or suspended from any building. Standard Informational Sign shall not include banners, beacons and streamers.

Streamer. See "temporary sign."

Structural change. Any replacement, bolstering, augmenting or substitution of a support element of a sign structure, including but not limited to alteration or replacement of the foundation, support structures, columns or beams, sign frame or sign head.

Subdivision sign. Any ground sign or wall sign placed at the intersection of two (2) public streets or one (1) public street and a private street where one (1) street is the primary access to a single-family subdivision.

Submission date. The date stamped on a sign application indicating the date the application was actually received in the inspections department.

Swinging sign. Any sign mounted such that the sign may freely move back and forth.

Temporary sign. Any sign constructed of cloth, canvas, vinyl, paper, plywood, fabric or other lightweight material not well suited to provide a durable substrate or, if made of some other material, is neither permanently installed in the ground nor permanently affixed to a building or any structure which is permanently installed in the ground, and designed to be displayed for a limited time. Temporary signs include, but are not limited to, signs designed to be transported regularly from one (1) location to another, signs designed with wheels, regardless of whether the wheels remain attached to the sign, or signs tethered to an existing structure, skylights, balloons, streamers, flag strings, inflatable displays, beacons and mechanical or animated figures.

Tri-Vision sign. A sign designed with a series of triangular slats or columns that mechanically rotate in sequence with one another to show three (3) different sign messages in rotation.

Wall sign. Any sign attached parallel to or painted on an exterior building wall, which may include a door.

Window sign. Any sign viewable through and/or affixed in any manner to a window or exterior glass door such that it is intended to be viewable from the exterior (beyond the sidewalk immediately adjacent to the window), including signs located inside a building but visible primarily from the outside of the building.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

Application requirements. All applications for sign permits must be complete and contain all required information. The chief building inspector shall deny any application upon a determination that the application does not contain all required information as set forth in this Article, or that such information is not sufficient to determine whether the permit should be issued or denied.

B.

Permit required. It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, repair, alter, relocate or maintain any sign as defined in this Article, except for those signs exempt from this Article, without first obtaining a permit from the chief building inspector in the manner set forth in this Article. It shall be unlawful to erect any sign not expressly permitted by this Article.

C.

Permit application. Application for permits to erect signs shall be made upon forms provided by the inspections department, and shall contain or have attached thereto the following information:

1.

Name, address and telephone number of the applicant;

2.

Address of building, structure or lot upon which the sign is to be attached or erected;

3.

The type of sign to be erected, the area of the sign, the height of the sign, the shape of the sign, how the sign is to be illuminated (if at all), and position of the sign in relation to nearby buildings or structures, property lines and other signs located on the lot;

4.

Five (5) sets of accurately-scaled, color drawings of the plans, contents, specifications and method of construction and attachment to the building or the ground for the sign as well as a scaled drawing of the site showing drives, structures and any other significant site features;

5.

Name of person erecting the sign, that is, the contractor or builder;

6.

Written consent of the owner of the building and/or lot upon which the sign is to be erected;

7.

If a wall sign, the dimensions of the wall on which the sign is to be placed with appropriate drawings and photographs;

8.

A written list describing all other signs located on the lot indicating the sign type, size and placement.

D.

Approval of chief building inspector. Approval of the chief building inspector must be obtained prior to erection of any sign for which a permit is required. Such officer shall examine the plans and specifications to determine whether the proposed sign complies with the building code of the city, this Article, and any other applicable provisions of the city Code, and shall then indicate his approval or denial thereon.

E.

Submission of sign permit applications.

1.

All permit applications must be delivered to the inspections department at City Hall.

2.

All permit applications must be stamped by the inspections department indicating the submission date.

3.

Permit applications pertaining to lots in the downtown business district shall be promptly forwarded by the chief building inspector to the Main Street manager for review. Such applications must be returned to the chief building inspector within fourteen (14) days of the submission date with a recommendation for approval or denial and reasons therefor. If not returned by the Main Street manager within said fourteen (14) days with a recommendation, the recommendation shall automatically be deemed to be for approval.

F.

Permit fees. Each application for a sign permit must be accompanied by a payment in the amount of the permit fee. The permit fee shall be as established by Mayor and Council from time to time.

G.

Issuance, denial and revocation of permit.

1.

Upon receipt of a complete application, the payment of all permit fees, the application contains no false material statements, and a determination that the proposed sign and the lot upon which the sign is to be placed comply with all requirements of this Article and all other applicable ordinances and laws of the city, the chief building inspector shall issue the permit;

2.

Permits concerning applications submitted to the Main Street manager cannot be issued by the chief building inspector prior to review and recommendation of the Main Street manager; and

3.

All sign permit applications shall be issued or denied within thirty (30) days of the submission date. Incomplete applications shall be rejected and a new application shall be submitted with all of the required information and assigned a new submission date. Should a decision on the application not be made prior to the expiration of a thirty-day period, the applicant shall be permitted to erect and maintain the sign under this statutory provision unless and until such time as the chief building inspector notifies the applicant of a denial of the application and states the reason(s) for the denial. No person erecting a sign under this provision shall acquire any vested rights to continued maintenance of such signs, and should the chief building inspector subsequently deny the application, the sign must be brought into compliance with this Article; and

4.

Upon making a final decision, the chief building inspector must stamp each application with a decision date and shall notify the applicant of such decision within three (3) days of the decision date in writing via hand delivery, certified mail, fax or e-mail to the address indicated on the application. If the decision is to deny the application, the reasons for said denial must be definitively stated.

H.

Time period. If the work authorized under a permit has not been completed within six (6) months following the date of issuance, the permit shall become null and void. A sixty-day extension may be granted to the six-month limit to alleviate hardship upon proof of hardship beyond the ability of the permit holder to rectify. No refunds will be made for permit fees paid for permits that expired due to failure to erect a permitted sign. If an individual later desires to erect a sign at the same location, a new application must be processed and another fee paid in accordance with the fee schedule applicable at such time.

I.

Display of permit. Every sign constructed, erected or maintained for which a permit is required by this Article shall be plainly marked with the permit number issued for the structure. The permit number shall be firmly affixed thereon in a durable and readily accessible manner.

J.

Altering permit. Displaying a permit that has been tampered with, altered or mutilated, or displaying a sign without a permit shall constitute a violation of this Article punishable in Municipal Court.

K.

It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in a business of erecting or maintaining signs within the city unless and until such entity shall have obtained an occupation tax certificate in the state and a certificate of insurance from an insurance company authorized to do business in the state evidencing that the entity has in effect public liability and property damage insurance in the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000.00) for property damage for any one claim, and public liability insurance in an amount not less than one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000.00) for injuries, including accidental death, to one (1) person. The certificate of insurance shall state that the insurance carrier shall notify the city thirty (30) days in advance of any termination and/or restriction of the coverage, including nonrenewal, cancellation, and non-payment of any premium. If the business has comparable insurance from another City or County in Georgia, the installer's insurance provider shall provide a current certificate of insurance to the city, prior to the installation of signage.

L.

Revocation. If the chief building inspector finds that a sign permit was issued pursuant to an incomplete application, application containing false material statements, the permit was erroneously issued, or the sign violations the requirements of the permit or any other applicable provisions of this Article, the Chief Building Inspector may revoke the permit by issuing a letter of revocation to the permit holder. The aggrieved permit holder shall have the right to appeal said revocation in accordance with the appeal provisions stated herein.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

Building code compliance. All signs shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the provisions of the building code as adopted and from time to time amended by Chapter 5 of the Code of Ordinances.

B.

Materials required. All signs for which a permit is required by this Article shall be constructed of non-combustible material.

C.

Reflectors. Reflectors and lights shall be permitted on ground signs, roof signs and wall signs provided that the reflectors and lights shall be fitted with appropriate lenses so that no light generated creates a hazardous or dangerous condition.

D.

Internal illumination. The illumination of internally illuminated signs shall not exceed twenty (20) foot-candles of incandescent light measured at a distance of ten (10) feet from such structure.

E.

External illumination. Externally illuminated signs shall be lighted so that no lights are positioned in a manner that light glares or shines into the eyes of motorists or pedestrians so as to create a hazardous or dangerous condition.

F.

Other code compliance. All signs erected, replaced, altered, relocated or modified within the city pursuant to this Article shall conform to all other relevant sections of the Code of Ordinances, the zoning ordinance and any other applicable regulations of the city. Where any provisions conflict, the most stringent requirement shall control.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

In addition to the limitations set forth in the other sections of this Article, the following limitations shall apply to the specific signs described below:

A.

Wall signs. No wall sign shall cover wholly or partially any wall opening, nor project beyond the ends or top of the wall to which it is attached.

B.

Roof signs.

1.

Setback from roof edge. No roof sign shall be erected or maintained within five (5) feet of the outside wall toward which the sign faces.

2.

Space between sign and roof. All roof signs shall maintain a minimum of five (5) feet of vertical clearance between the sign and roof.

3.

Prohibited obstructions. No roof sign shall be placed on the roof of any building or structure in such manner as to prevent free passage from one part of the roof to any other part or interfere with openings in the roof.

C.

Projecting signs.

1.

No projecting sign shall be placed over streets, alleys or ways available for vehicular traffic, except those provided in this Article, or maintained less than eight (8) feet above the ground level when erected over pedestrian walkways.

2.

All projecting signs shall be installed at an angle of ninety (90) degrees to the building facade and shall be securely fastened to the building surface.

3.

No projecting sign shall be erected within twenty (20) feet of another projecting sign.

D.

Temporary signs.

1.

Temporary signs shall be removed from the premises within thirty (30) days from the date the sign is first placed on the lot.

2.

No temporary sign may be erected or placed on any lot more than once in any six-month period for a single lot.

3.

All temporary signs shall be securely installed, and shall meet all applicable safety standards as prescribed by the building code, electrical code or as promulgated by the chief building inspector and approved by Mayor and Council.

4.

Under no circumstances shall any temporary sign be located so as to block the view of a permanent sign, exceed the size of any permanent sign relating to the same user, or installed in such a way as to create a safety hazard.

5.

The erection or maintenance of any temporary sign in violation of this Article or any other ordinances or laws of the city shall cause the chief building inspector to give written notice to the owner thereof and to the owner of the property and premises upon which the sign is located. Such notice shall state that the sign must be removed within three (3) days. In the event the sign is not thereafter removed, the city may cause its removal and impose the cost of the removal as a lien upon the property upon which the sign is located.

E.

Awning signs.

1.

No awning sign may be internally illuminated.

2.

The sign area of any awning sign shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the surface area of the awning.

3.

Entrance sign. All entrance signs shall be placed on private property and may not be placed in the right-of-way.

F.

Subdivision sign. All subdivision signs shall be placed on private property and shall not be placed in the right-of-way, except that such signs may be placed in the median of a street within the subdivision, provided the recorded homeowners' associations shall assume full responsibility for the maintenance of such signs and associated improvements, that the association documents shall hold the city harmless for any and all liability associated with the sign and associated improvements and that such signs shall be compatible with the architectural style of the dwellings within the subdivision.

G.

Flags.

1.

Ground. A flag may be flown from a metal pole permanently placed in the ground. The length of the flag shall be no greater than one-quarter (¼) the height of the pole. This guideline applies to poles twenty (20) feet and taller. Residential flags shall not exceed three (3) feet in width or five (5) feet in length. Residential flagpoles shall not exceed twenty (20) feet in height. Flag size for small industrial and commercial buildings shall not exceed four (4) feet in width or six (6) feet in length. Flagpoles for small industrial and commercial buildings shall not exceed twenty-four (24) feet in height. Major industrial, municipal and government buildings flag sizes shall not exceed six (6) feet in width or ten (10) feet in length. Major industrial, municipal and government building flagpoles shall not exceed forty (40) feet in height. The pole may be of varying diameter, depending on the length of the flag.

2.

Projecting. A flag may be flown from a metal or wooden pole attached to a bracket projecting from the side of a building or doorframe. The pole shall not exceed six (6) feet in length, or one (1) inch in diameter. The flag flying from such pole shall not exceed three (3) feet in width and five (5) feet in length. Additionally, the flag displayed in such manner shall not impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

3.

Window. A flag may be hung in the window of either the primary facade or secondary facade of a properly zoned property. The flag area shall be considered against the percentage of window signs permitted for the zoned property as delineated in Section 9.8.

4.

Limit. The number of flags (ground, projecting or window) that may be flown or displayed on each property is controlled by the limitations set forth in Section 9.8. However, a maximum of three (3) flags (ground, projecting or window) will be exempt from the limitations established in Section 9.8. Any additional flags (ground, projecting or window) that are displayed shall be considered against the allocation of the ground, projecting or window sign area permitted for each property in Section 9.8.

5.

Condition of flags. All flags flown or displayed shall be in serviceable condition and fit for use. All stitching shall remain intact and the flags shall not become tattered or faded.

H.

Billboards.

1.

Billboards may not be located within five hundred (500) feet of any residential zoning district, park, playground, recreation area, scenic area or cemetery.

2.

Permits for billboards to be erected on undeveloped property shall only be considered for approval in accordance with section 3. of this Article if submitted with a sign scheme for the entire property.

3.

No billboard shall have an area greater than four hundred (400) square feet nor be erected at a height greater than twenty (20) feet.

4.

No billboard shall be within five hundred (500) feet of another billboard on the same side of the highway provided that multiple message billboards shall not be located within five thousand (5,000) feet of another multiple message billboard on the same side of the highway.

5.

Multiple message billboards shall only be permitted under the following circumstances:

a.

Each message on a multiple message billboard shall remain fixed for a minimum of ten (10) seconds;

b.

Each transitional change shall occur within three (3) seconds or less;

c.

Any such billboard shall contain a default design that will freeze the message in one (1) legible position if a malfunction occurs.

d.

Upon a finding by the city that a multiple message billboard or any display or effect thereon causes glare or impairs the vision of a motorist or otherwise interferes with the safe operation of a motor vehicle, and upon written request by the city, the owner of the billboard shall promptly and within forty-eight (48) hours reduce the intensity of the illumination of the billboard to a level acceptable to the city or otherwise remedy the interference.

6.

Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Article, mobile electronic multiple message billboards that are otherwise in compliance with this subsection and are illuminated entirely by the use of light emitting diodes, back lighting, or any other light source shall not be illuminated or otherwise in use while within the city limits.

I.

Certain LED signs. The following standards shall apply to all LED signs regulated hereunder; any LED sign existing before the adoption of these provisions regulated hereunder that does not comply with these standards shall be nonconforming. For the purpose of this paragraph, "LED Sign" shall mean a digital sign, including but not specifically limited to light-emitting diode (LED), liquid crystal display (LCD) and other similar technology signs.

1.

LED signs shall only be permitted for signs located within the BP, Planned Business Park and OP, Office and Professional Districts.

2.

Each such LED sign must be located a minimum of one hundred fifty (150) feet from any single family residence, or any property zoned for single family residential use.

3.

No more than two (2) LED panels shall be allowed on any one (1) sign face.

4.

The total area of each LED panel shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet.

5.

Color of characters must contrast with the field of the sign to provide for maximum visibility and legibility, and each character on the LED panel must be the same color. The field of the sign shall be a solid color.

6.

LED lights on signs shall remain, and appear to be, fixed and static. In no instance shall LED lights on signs be, or appear to be, moving, changing, flashing, or animated in any way.

7.

The LED signs permitted in this paragraph shall not block sight distance for persons entering and exiting the premises.

8.

Notwithstanding the provisions of this Article to the contrary, digital billboards may be permitted under the following conditions:

a.

For purposes of this section, "Digital Billboard" shall mean any LED sign that also meets the definition of a billboard in this Article. "Interstate highway" shall mean I-85 or I-285.

b.

Digital billboards shall be limited to non-residential zoning districts.

c.

Digital billboards shall be limited to parcels fronting on Interstate highways only, shall themselves be positioned for viewing from such Interstate highways.

d.

No digital billboard shall be located within five hundred (500) feet of another billboard on the same side of the Interstate highway.

e.

No digital billboard shall be located within five thousand (5,000) feet of another multiple message billboard (including digital multimessage billboard) on the same side of the highway.

f.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Article, digital billboards having a height up to seventy-five (75) feet shall be permitted.

g.

All billboards must be stationary and may not contain any visible moving parts, alternating or moving messages or have the appearance of having moving parts or messages.

h.

The display or message on a digital billboard may change no more frequently than once every ten (10) seconds, with a transition period of one (1) second or less.

i.

All digital billboards must have installed an ambient light monitor which shall continuously monitor and automatically adjust the brightness level of the display based on ambient light conditions consistent with terms of this Article. Maximum brightness levels for digital billboards shall not exceed three-tenths (0.3) foot-candles over ambient light levels measured within one hundred fifty (150) feet of the sign. Certification must be provided to the city demonstrating that the sign has been preset to automatically adjust the brightness to these levels or lower.

j.

Notwithstanding other provisions of this Article, the maximum allowable surface display area for a digital billboard is six hundred seventy-two (672) square feet. Such digital billboards shall be permitted up to the industry standard sign face height of fourteen (14) feet and width of forty-eight (48) feet.

k.

Properties having digital billboards permitted hereunder shall be unaffected by the square footage of any digital billboard permitted by the City of College Park as concerns compliance with the limitation of five hundred (500) square feet of aggregate sign area for every ten (10) contiguous acres.

l.

Digital billboards shall meet each of the requirements this Article that do not conflict with the provisions of this section. The repair or replacement of permitted digital displays on digital billboards shall be allowed without a permit so long as neither the size nor weight of the display is increased.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

All signs must be placed upon a lot, as defined in the zoning ordinance and the subdivision regulations, and only with express permission of the lot owner. Unless otherwise provided in this Article, no sign may be placed on the right-of-way. No sign may be placed on any lot that does not meet the minimum requirements of the zoning ordinance and subdivision regulations. No sign may be placed upon any lot that has road frontage only on an interstate or intrastate highway.

B.

Obstruction to doors, windows, or fire escapes. No sign shall be erected, relocated or maintained so as to inhibit safe and free ingress and egress of any door, any window, an emergency exit or any fire escape; nor shall any sign be attached to any standpipe or fire escape.

C.

Sign not to constitute traffic hazard. No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision from pedestrians or vehicle operators. No sign shall be erected where, due to its proposed location, position, shape, color, size, height, and/or lighting would appear to be imitation of, or likely would be construed by pedestrians or vehicle operators for, an official traffic control device or signal.

D.

Posting on trees, poles, etc. No sign shall be tacked, painted, posted, marked or otherwise affixed on trees, utility poles or other similar structures, or on rocks, the ground itself or other natural features.

E.

No message may be displayed on any portion of the structural supports of any sign.

F.

Maintenance. All signs regulated by this Article shall be kept clean, neatly painted and free from all electrical and mechanical hazards, including, but not limited to, faulty wiring and loose connections. The premises surrounding signs shall be maintained by the owner in a sanitary and inoffensive condition, free and clear of all weeds, rubbish and debris.

G.

Compliance of premises with City Code. No sign shall be allowed on any lot where such lot is in non-compliance with any provision of the city Code.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

No sign shall be illuminated, either internally or externally, in any residential district, except that entrance signs and subdivision signs may be illuminated from dusk until dawn.

B.

All temporary signs are prohibited on lots zoned for residential use, except for standard informational signs, including stake signs, as specifically allowed in this Article.

C.

The following requirements shall apply to all lots in the DC Downtown and Commercial District and other commercial zoned parcels:

1.

The provisions of the City of College Park Downtown Design Guidelines as approved by the mayor and council on June 20, 2011 pertaining to signage (specifically paragraphs 1.1 through 1.7 of subsection 1.0 Signage), are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof as if fully set out in their entirety, except as they conflict with any provisions of this Article, in which case the provisions of this Article shall control.

2.

A building that has more than one (1) tenant occupying interior space shall be allowed one (1) wall sign placed near each public entrance into the interior of said building. The maximum sign area for any such wall sign shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet. Each wall sign may have multiple face panels but each face panel shall be of the same size, color and font.

3.

Ground signs are permitted, subject to review and approval of sign plans submitted, as appropriate, by the Main Street Advisory Board. Ground signs shall be designed so as not to hinder pedestrian activity within the district.

D.

Projecting signs.

1.

Projecting signs are prohibited over streets, alleys or ways available for vehicular travel.

2.

All projecting signs must be installed at a ninety-degree angle to the building facade.

3.

The lowest part of every projecting sign shall be placed a minimum of ten (10) feet above the public sidewalk over which it is erected, and no sign or part thereof shall extend a distance greater than six (6) feet from the building facade. No projecting sign shall be allowed over public property if a ground sign can be accommodated on the lot in front of a commercial establishment.

E.

Roof signs are prohibited in residential districts.

F.

Neon signs are prohibited except that a single sign per storefront on commercially zoned properties, may be comprised of neon tubing provided such individual signs are limited to three (3) square feet. No neon sign shall be lit unless the Commercial establishment is open and operating.

G.

Temporary signs, except as otherwise provided in this Article, are prohibited.

H.

Flashing signs are prohibited.

I.

Back lit and internally lit signs are allowed, provided that such signs conform to material standards as to the gauge of the surface.

J.

Freestanding signs placed on a public sidewalk abutting a commercial lot shall be permitted, provided that no such sign shall exceed two (2) feet in width and three (3) feet in height. Only one (1) such sign per lot is permitted, and there shall be a separation of at least twenty (20) feet between such signs. The space utilized by freestanding signs on public sidewalks shall comply with all Americans with Disabilities Act standards and shall not impede the public right-of-way. Freestanding signs on sidewalks are permitted to be displayed seven (7) days a week, during business hours only.

K.

Murals are permitted in commercial, mixed-use, and industrial-zoned areas subject to the following standards:

1.

No part of any mural shall extend beyond the building wall on which it is painted.

2.

Only oil-based alkyd enamel or polyurethane enamel, or newer one hundred (100) percent acrylic exterior paints shall be used to create murals. No vinyl or other non-permanent material shall be used.

3.

Murals executed using spray paint shall be limited to air-brushing to ensure that high quality paint is used.

4.

An appropriate graffiti-resistant sealer or a suitable varnish or topcoat shall be applied to the finished mural.

5.

Murals may not contain elements that move, rotate or otherwise create a changing image or message.

6.

Murals may not use flashing or scrolling lights, an internal light source, or other light feature, or contain electrical or mechanical components.

7.

Murals may not be defamatory, obscene, treasonous or otherwise violate any state or federal criminal statute.

8.

Prior to being permitted, proof of ownership of the structure, or otherwise proof of right to apply such mural to a specific structure, shall be provided to the city. The owner, lessor or other responsible person managing the structure on which the mural is located shall be liable for any violation of this or any other applicable ordinance, law or regulation relating to the mural.

9.

The mural must be properly maintained to ensure that material failure (e.g. peeling paint) is corrected and vandalism removed promptly.

L.

Banners are allowed for any lot during the period that a promotional event occurs on that lot under the following conditions and subject to the following requirements:

1.

Prior to the occurrence of the promotional event and the erection of any banner under this subsection, a permit for the erection of such sign shall be obtained from the chief building inspector. An application for such a permit shall specifically describe the banner as to its construction, composition, the dimensions of the banner, location where the banner is to be erected, the address of the lot where it is be erected, state where the banner is to be attached to a building, pole, or other structure, and identify the date(s) of the special event. The chief building inspector shall render a decision within ten (10) days after the submission date of such application.

2.

A permit issued under this subsection shall expire thirty (30) days after the date of issuance. The owner or permittee shall remove the banner no later than the expiration of the permit.

3.

A lot shall be eligible for a maximum of two (2) banners under this subsection per year.

4.

Any banner erected under this subsection shall not be placed within ten (10) feet of a public right-of-way or in any other manner as to obstruct the view of motorists or pedestrians.

5.

The maximum size allowance for any banner erected under this subsection shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet.

M.

In commercial districts and buildings used for hotels and hospitality uses, as well as in any other districts in which site plan approval is required prior to development, the following sign requirements shall be observed, in addition to those limitations found in the tables within:

1.

A uniform design scheme shall be established for the development as a whole and/or for each building in the development.

2.

Plans for the development shall include detailed descriptions of all signs, including but not limited to, size, height, location, type, colors and materials to be used as well as lighting and ownership responsibility.

3.

Plans for signs shall undergo the same review and approval process as is required for other aspects of the development; provided that the chief building inspector may make no modification of these regulations which would permit a sign otherwise prohibited under this Article.

4.

All signs shall be designed, erected and maintained in accordance with an approved plan.

N.

For properties zoned C1, C2, M1, M2, BP or OP, the maximum aggregate sign area shall be five hundred (500) square feet for each ten (10) contiguous acres of land.

O.

Decals not exceeding four (4) inches in width and twelve (12) inches in length or forty-eight (48) square inches in size may be displayed on windows in non-residential districts. A single decal shall not be considered in the calculation of maximum allowed window signs; however, any additional decals shall be considered.

P.

All signs in the Hospitality Campus District shall be controlled by the provisions of this Article, except as provided below:

1.

For any new development as a whole and for each building in the development, a uniform design scheme of signs shall be established.

2.

Plans submitted to the city for the development shall include detailed descriptions of all signs, including but not limited to size, height, locations, type, colors and materials to be used, lighting and ownership responsibility.

3.

Plans for signs shall undergo the same review and approval process as is required of other aspects of the development; provided that the chief building inspector may make no modification of these regulations that would permit a sign otherwise prohibited under this Article, nor may the chief building inspector regulate the content of any sign.

4.

All signs shall be designed, erected and maintained in accordance with a plan approved by the chief building inspector.

5.

In addition to permitted wall signs, secondary wall signs shall be permitted on any facade. Such signs may exceed the one (1) per facade maximum, but individual wall signs shall be limited to an area of sixty-four (64) square feet per building occupant and shall be installed at or below the third story of the building. Any sign installed on any parking structure shall, except as to size, conform in style, shape, color scheme and materials to the style, shape, color scheme and materials of the largest sign on the primary structure on the lot.

6.

No projecting, roof or window sign or signs shall be permitted.

Q.

All signs on lots in the PD district shall be subject to the following regulations:

1.

Sign regulations as found in the Planned Development District.

2.

Sign regulations of the zoning district most closely associated with the proposed use of the property as referenced in the Planned Development District and as determined by the City Planner. Should any conflict between the sign regulations arise, the most restrictive regulations shall apply.

R.

Industrial wall signs. The following requirements shall apply to all wall signs on buildings located in industrial districts, and shall be independent of billboards and other signs located on the property:

1.

Wall signs visible from the interstate or a public right-of-way shall be limited to a maximum area of one hundred fifty (150) square feet.

2.

No wall sign visible from a residential property shall exceed an area of fifty (50) square feet.

3.

One (1) wall sign shall be permitted for each individual tenant space.

4.

A requirement for design review shall be established. The design review shall consider such parameters as:

i.

Relationship to other wall signs on the building as to sign separation, sign height and relative dimensions;

ii.

Maximum distance from building wall; and

iii.

Distance from top of building wall.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18; Ord. No. 2024-12, § 1, 9-16-24)

In addition to all other regulations in this Article, all signs must conform to the standards contained in this Section. If an applicable zoning district is not mentioned in this Section, then the City Planner has the discretion to determine the sign standard regulations for that certain district. Sign types not found in a table are not permitted in the corresponding districts, except as otherwise provided in this Article.

A.

Lots zoned R-1, R-2, and R-3.

NOTE: In addition to these regulations, no person may maintain any sign or signs on a lot zoned R-1, R-2, or R-3 so that the aggregate sign area on the lot exceeds twenty (20) square feet, regardless of the construction, placement or type of sign or signs, unless otherwise explicitly provided in this Article.

B.

Lots zoned RM.

NOTE: In addition to these regulations, no person may maintain any sign or signs on a lot zoned RM so that the aggregate sign area for that lot exceeds eight (8) square feet per unit, regardless of the construction placement, number or type of sign or signs, unless otherwise provided in this Article.

C.

Lots zoned C-1 and C-2.

NOTE: In addition to these regulations, no person may maintain any sign or signs on a lot zoned C-1 or C-2, so that the aggregate sign area exceeds five hundred (500) square feet for every ten (10) contiguous acres, regardless of the construction, placement or type of sign or signs, unless otherwise expressly provided in this Article. No combination of ground signs and billboards shall exceed a total of three (3) such signs.

D.

Lots zoned M-1, and M-2.

NOTE: In addition to these regulations, no person may maintain any sign or signs on a lot zoned M-1, or M-2 so that the aggregate sign area exceeds five hundred (500) square feet for every ten (10) contiguous acres, regardless of the construction, placement or type of sign or signs, unless otherwise expressly provided in this Article. No combination of ground signs and billboards shall exceed a total of three (3) such signs.

E.

Lots zoned BP and OP.

NOTE: In addition to these regulations, no sign or signs shall be maintained on a lot zoned BP or OP that comprise an aggregate sign area in excess of five hundred (500) square feet for every ten (10) contiguous acres, regardless of the construction, placement, number or type of sign, unless otherwise expressly provided in this Article. No combination of ground signs and billboards shall exceed a total of two (2) such signs for every ten (10) contiguous acres.

F.

Lots zoned DC and TOD.

NOTE: The total of all signs shall not exceed two (2) signs of each sign type permitted above for the primary facade and one (1) sign of each sign type permitted above for each secondary façade, unless otherwise provided expressly in this Article. In addition to these regulations, no person may maintain any sign or signs on a lot zoned DC and TOD so that the aggregate sign area exceeds five hundred (500) square feet for every ten (10) contiguous acres, regardless of the construction, placement or type of sign or signs, unless otherwise provided expressly in this Article.

G.

Lots zoned HC.

NOTE: In addition to those regulations set forth in the above table, no person may maintain any sign or signs on a lot zoned HC district so that the aggregate sign area exceeds five hundred (500) square feet for every ten (10) contiguous acres, regardless of the construction, placement or type of sign or signs unless otherwise expressly provided in this Article.

H.

Exemptions for certain window signs. Interior window signs located at least twenty-four (24) inches inside a window shall not be counted for purposes of determining the maximum area above, provided (1) the sign does not impede visibility into or out of the building, and (2) the sign does not present an undue distraction to motorists or otherwise threaten public safety.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18; Ord. No. 2024-12, §§ 2—4(Exh. A), 9-16-24)

A.

Upon a finding by the Chief Building Inspector that any sign regulated herein is unsafe or unstable, or is a menace to the public health or safety, or is abandoned, or is maintained in a dilapidated condition, or has been constructed or erected or is being maintained in violation of the provisions of this Article, the Chief Building Inspector shall notify the owner or occupant of the property on which the sign is located by certified mail of such violation. Said notice shall include a brief and complete statement of the violations to be remedied. If the owner or occupant of the property where the sign is located cannot be located, notice to the owner or occupant of the property shall be effected by the Chief Building Inspector by affixing the notice to the sign or to the building on which the sign is erected for a minimum period of ten (10) days.

B.

Should the owner or occupant of the property fail to remove or alter the structure so as to comply with the standards of this Article within ten (10) days following such notice, the permit for such sign shall be revoked and the owner or occupant of the property shall be subject to the penalties set forth in the Enforcement provisions of this ordinance.

C.

The Chief Building Inspector may remove any sign constituting an immediate threat to the physical safety of persons or adjoining property summarily and without notice and cause the cost of such removal to be placed as a lien on the property upon which the sign is located.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

Signs which, on the effective date of this Article, were approved and legally erected under previous sign restrictions and which became nonconforming with respect to the requirements of this Article, may continue in existence subject to the following restrictions:

1.

The owner of the sign shall secure a permit for the continuation of the sign subject to the restrictions of this section. Application for such permit must be filed within ten (10) days of the notice of nonconformance. There shall be no charge for this permit.

2.

No change shall be made in the size of any nonconforming sign, nor shall any structural changes be made in such a sign unless the sign is brought into compliance with the provisions of this Article. All nonconforming signs shall be maintained in good repair.

3.

Any nonconforming sign declared to be structurally unsafe by the Chief Building Inspector shall be removed or rendered safe and brought into compliance with the provisions of this Article. Minor repairs and maintenance of nonconforming signs shall be permitted

4.

No nonconforming sign damaged by fire or other causes to the extent of more than fifty (50) percent of its assessed value shall be repaired or rebuilt except in compliance with this Article.

5.

Except for businesses located in planned shopping centers or planned business parks, any signs erected in violation of this section may be removed from any public right-of-way by duly authorized employees of the city, and the responsible party may be cited for such violation.

6.

No business located in a planned shopping center or planned business park shall be allowed an otherwise conforming sign until it has removed any existing nonconforming signs.

B.

Any person may file with the inspections department an application for exemption from this Article for a permit for a sign. City staff shall, within thirty (30) days of the filing of the application, recommend that the Mayor and Council review such application for exemption where the following conditions are met:

1.

The applicant agrees to remove at least one (1) nonconforming sign from the location at issue.

2.

The nonconforming sign to be removed is highly visible from any public right-of-way or adjoining property.

3.

The nonconforming sign to be removed has not been properly maintained.

4.

The proposed sign meets all the requirements of this Article.

5.

Other aspects of the addition of the proposed sign(s) to the location at issue reasonably suggest that the proposed sign would benefit community aesthetics in conformance with the purpose of this Article as described in section 9.1.

6.

If the provisions above are not met due to the inability of the applicant to remove at least one (1) nonconforming sign, and if any nonconforming signs on such lot were previously agreed to by the city, the city may waive the provisions of this subsection, so long as the aggregate sign area of all signs on such lot does not exceed four hundred (400) square feet for every ten (10) contiguous acres or major fraction thereof. For purposes of determining the aggregate sign area, the city shall exclude the sign area of all nonconforming signs which were previously agreed to by the city.

C.

The Mayor and Council shall, within thirty (30) days of receipt of a recommendation from city staff, or within sixty (60) days if a recommendation is not received, grant such exemption where at least three (3) of the following conditions are met:

1.

Granting the exemption would further the purpose of this Article as described in section 9.1.

2.

The benefits of granting the exemption would outweigh the ill effects of allowing the nonconforming sign proposed for removal to remain erected.

3.

If an applicant is seeking to waive the removal of any nonconforming sign pursuant to this section, there are no substantial new ill effects of allowing the nonconforming sign to remain erected along with any new sign(s).

4.

There is no negative effect on surrounding property values and that the erection of the proposed sign(s) would afford the applicant a reasonable opportunity to advertise.

5.

The grant of an exemption in no way confers any vested rights upon the applicant or the exempted plans, applications or requests.

D.

1.

A nonconforming sign shall not be replaced by another nonconforming sign, including face material except that the substitution or interchange of poster panels or painted boards on nonconforming signs shall be permitted. All nonconforming signs shall be maintained in a safe manner and in good repair.

2.

Minor repairs and maintenance of nonconforming signs shall be permitted. However, no structural repairs, structural changes and/or changes in the size, shape or technology currently being used on the sign shall be permitted except to bring the sign out if its nonconforming condition and into compliance with the requirements of this Article.

E.

Nonconforming signs that met all requirements of the College Park Code when erected may stay in place until one (1) of the following conditions occurs:

1.

The deterioration of the sign or damage to the sign makes it a hazard;

2.

The nonconforming sign is abandoned; or

3.

The sign has been damaged to such extent that structural repairs are required to restore the sign.

F.

Nothing in this section shall prohibit non-digital nonconforming billboards from being converted to digital billboards in this Article. All applications for conversion of billboards to digital billboards pending at the time this ordinance was adopted shall be processed in the order in which they were received and in accordance with this Article.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

Flashing signs shall be prohibited.

B.

Aerial view signs shall be prohibited.

C.

Digital signs, including but not specifically limited to light-emitting diode (LED), liquid crystal display (LCD) and other similar technology signs, are prohibited, unless specifically authorized elsewhere in this Article.

D.

Signs that contain words, pictures or statements which are obscene, as defined by O.C.G.A. § 16-12-80, as amended.

E.

Signs that visually simulate and official traffic control device, warning sign, or regulatory sign or which hide from view any traffic control device, signal or public service sign, except as allowed.

F.

Signs that interfere with road or highway visibility or obstruct or otherwise interfere with the safe and orderly movement of traffic or which otherwise pose a hazard to traffic due to structural deficiencies in the structure of such signs.

G.

Signs erected by nailing, fastening or affixing the sign in any manner to any tree, curb, utility pole, natural feature, fence, street sign or other structure with the exception of signs on fences and walls as permitted herein.

H.

Signs that obstruct any fire escape, any means of egress or ventilation or shall prevent free passage from one part of the roof to any other part thereof, as well as any signs attached to any fire escape.

I.

Any sign that is structurally unsound, or is a hazard to traffic or pedestrians.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

The following signs are exempt from the permitting requirements of section 9.3 above; provided, however, that such signs shall be subject to all other provisions of this Article:

1.

Wall signs one (1) square foot and smaller; provided however that any combination of two (2) or more such signs located in such close proximity to each other as to form a discernible message shall be subject to the provisions of section 9.3. above.

2.

Each lot is entitled to one (1) sign that is less than thirty-six (36) square inches in sign area and that must be placed in any of the following locations:

a.

On the front of every building, every unit in a multiple unit building, every residence, or every structure;

b.

On each side of an authorized United States Postal Service mailbox;

c.

On one (1) post which measures no more than forty-eight (48) inches in height and four (4) inches in width and which shall not be placed in a public right-of-way.

3.

Standard Informational Signs that meet the following criteria:

a.

Standard Informational Signs not exceeding three (3) square feet, supported by braces or uprights placed into the ground, and located in districts zones R-1, R-2, R-3 and RM.

b.

For each lot during the period that it is being developed under an active City of College Park building permit, one (1) Standard Informational sign that is no more than twelve (12) square feet in sign area, is no more than six (6) feet in height to the top of the sign component when placed and standing in ground, and is not placed within a public right-of-way. Any sign erected under this subsection shall be immediately removed upon the completion of the development or the expiration of the building permit, whichever occurs earlier.

c.

For each lot during the period in which it is listed for sale or for rent, one (1) Standard Informational sign that is no more than twelve (12) square feet in sign area, is no more than six (6) feet in height to the top of the sign component when placed and standing in ground, and is not located within a public right-of-way. Any sign erected under this subsection shall be immediately removed when the lot is no longer listed for sale or for rent.

d.

For each period that starts forty-five (45) days immediately preceding a federal, state, county, or City of College Park election or referendum, including primary election, special election and runoff election, and that ends five (5) days after said election or referendum:

1.

A maximum of four (4) standard informational signs not exceeding four (4) square feet may be placed on any lot.

2.

Standard informational signs under this subsection may be placed in the city's rights-of-way. No sign placed in any right-of-way under this subsection shall impair the vision or safety of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists.

(i)

Where any such sign creates a public safety risk, the Chief Building Inspector shall notify the person or entity that placed the sign of such risk and, within three (3) calendar days after the notification, that person or entity shall move the sign to a location where it will not create a public safety risk or shall remove the sign entirely.

(ii)

Where any such sign creates an imminent danger to public safety, the Chief Building Inspector immediately may move the sign to the nearest location in the right-of-way where it will not create a public safety risk. He then shall notify the person or entity, if known, that placed the sign of its new location and the reason prompting the move. That person or entity may maintain the sign on the new site, relocate the sign to an alternate safe area or remove the sign entirely.

(iii)

The person or entity that places a sign in any right-of-way shall be responsible for its removal immediately after the expiration of the period stated in this subsection. Where that person or entity fails to undertake such action, the city may remove the sign from the right-of-way. The actions authorized under this paragraph are in addition to any other lawful remedies available to the city.

3.

In the event of any conflict between any other provision in the Zoning Ordinance of the City of College Park and this subsection, the regulations in this subsection shall control.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18; Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18; Ord. No. 2024-12, §§ 2—4(Exh. A), 9-16-24)

A.

Regardless of any other provisions of this Article to the contrary, ground signs not exceeding sixty-five (65) feet in height measured to the top of the sign face, fifty (50) feet in width and five hundred (500) square feet in area shall be allowed, subject to the conditions of this Section, in the areas described in that Exhibit "A" attached to Ordinance No. 2006-11, enacting this Section, which said Exhibit "A" is incorporated herein by reference and shall be maintained in the office of the city clerk.

B.

Any sign authorized by subsection (a) of this section shall be erected for no longer than two (2) years, provided that the owner of any such sign may apply to the building inspector, at least thirty (30) days prior to the termination of the initial term or any renewal term for erection of said sign, for subsequent one (1) year renewals. Such renewals shall be granted by the building inspector unless the building inspector makes a written finding either:

1.

That the sign is not owned by the owner of the property on which the sign is erected; or

2.

That the sign is not located within seventy-five (75) feet of either: i) a vacant lot for which a current, valid permit has been issued for construction of a residential structure, but for which no certificate of occupancy has been issued; or ii) a residential structure for which a certificate of occupancy has been issued, but which has never been occupied by any resident.

C.

The applicant shall pay an additional application fee of one hundred dollars ($100.00) for each permit and each renewal.

D.

Except to the extent that signs described in subsection (a) are allowed by this section, such signs shall remain subject to the other requirements and limitations of this Article.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

An applicant who is dissatisfied by a decision of the chief building inspector rendered under this Article may appeal to the board of zoning appeals under the procedures set forth in Article 12 of this ordinance subject to the following:

1.

The notice of appeal shall be in writing and must be delivered to the board of zoning appeals within ten (10) days after the applicant receives notice of the chief building inspector's decision. In the event that no appeal is made within the ten-day period, the decision of the chief building inspector shall become final;

2.

The board of zoning appeals shall hold the hearing on any such appeal no more than thirty-two (32) days following receipt of the appeal; and

3.

The board of zoning appeals shall render a final determination on the appeal not more than thirty-two (32) days following the date of the hearing. If a decision on an appeal is not made within this thirty-two-day period, the appeal shall be considered denied for the same reason as that determined by the chief building inspector.

Any appeal of the decision of the board of zoning appeals shall be taken to the appropriate Superior Court by a petition for a writ of certiorari as provided by law.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

Notwithstanding any other section of this Article or the zoning ordinance, a variance from the provisions of this Article shall occur only pursuant to the following requirements. The board of zoning appeals shall have the power to grant variances related to the height of signs, sign setbacks, topographic conditions which would prevent the erection of a sign which is otherwise permissible under this Article, and similar minor variances, according to their authority, and which are not otherwise expressly prohibited herein. Neither the board of zoning appeals nor any other duly administrative body or officer shall have the power or authority to vary the express terms of this Article related to the number of signs, the total area of signs permitted on a lot, distance and spacing requirements, or removal of illegal signs. Further, the board of zoning appeals shall have no power to permit within any zoning district within the City of College Park any sign not otherwise authorized by this Article.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

Any person found in violation of any provision of the Article shall be subject to a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00) per day. A separate offense shall be deemed committed each day during or upon which a violation occurs or is permitted to continue.

B.

The chief building inspector, or designee, shall be authorized to enforce the provisions of this Article and shall be authorized to issue citations for violation of this Article by any person, including, as applicable, the owner, manager or tenant of the space upon which a sign is located, for a sign erected, altered, maintained, converted or used in violation of this Article or violation of any other applicable ordinance, including, but not limited to, the building and electrical codes.

C.

The city may seek affirmative equitable relief in a court of competent jurisdiction to cause the removal or repair of any sign in violation of this Article or other city ordinances.

D.

The chief building inspector, or designee, may remove any sign or structure illegally placed upon a public right-of-way without any notice and may dispose of any such sign or structure. Suck removal and disposal of illegally placed signs shall not preclude the prosecution of any person for illegally placing such signs in the public right-of-way.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)

A.

It is hereby declared to be the intention of the mayor and council that all sections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses and phrases of this Article are or were, upon their enactment, believed by the mayor and council to be fully valid, enforceable and constitutional.

B.

It is hereby declared to be the intention of the mayor and council that, to the greatest extent allowed by law, each and every section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Article is severable from every other section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Article. It is hereby further declared to be the intention of the mayor and council that, to the greatest extent allowed by law, no section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Article is mutually dependent upon any other section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Article.

C.

In the event that any phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section of this Article shall, for any reason whatsoever, be declared invalid, unconstitutional or otherwise unenforceable by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, it is the express intent of the mayor and council that such invalidity, unconstitutionality or unenforceability shall, to the greatest extent allowed by law, not render invalid, unconstitutional or otherwise unenforceable any of the remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs or sections of the article and that, to the greatest extent allowed by law, all remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs and sections of the article shall remain valid, constitutional, enforceable, and of full force and effect.

(Ord. No. 2018-09, § 1, 10-1-18)