The purpose of this article is to regulate the size, location, height and construction of all signs for public observance; to protect the public health, safety, convenience and general welfare; to facilitate the creation of a convenient, attractive and harmonious community, to protect property values; and to further the urban design and economic development objectives of Danville. Signs subject to these regulations include all exterior signs and permanent interior window signs which are placed for exterior observance. Pursuant to the goals of the Comprehensive Plan, outdoor advertising signs ("billboards") are considered inappropriate to the character and sound development of the City. To these ends, these regulations are intended to promote signs which are:

1.

Compatible with the physical and architectural character of their surroundings;

2.

Legible and appropriate to the activity to which they pertain;

3.

Not distracting to motorists;

4.

Avoid visual cluster;

5.

Constructed and maintained in a structurally sound and attractive condition;

6.

Limited to the specific use or business that is in operation on the premises; and

7.

An enhancement to the appearance of the City's corridors, residential neighborhoods and business areas.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § A, 2-17-04)

Except as provided hereinafter, no sign shall be erected, installed, used, altered, painted, relocated, replaced or reconstructed until a Sign Permit has been issued by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator and approved by the Commission of Architectural Review or the Tourism Corridor Review Board, if applicable. For the purpose of this Ordinance, all signs are considered accessory uses and, unless specifically qualified, shall be located on the same lot with the principal use to which they pertain.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § B, 2-17-04)

1.

Applicability. A Sign Permit shall be required for all signs except for those specifically excluded from the permit requirements of this article.

2.

Filing of Application and Fees. Applications for Sign Permits shall be filed on a form provided by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, shall contain information required herein, and shall be accompanied by a fee to be established by the City Council.

3.

Information Required. All applications for Sign Permits shall be submitted on the standard Sign Application Form and the applicant shall provide additional written or graphic exhibits to incorporate the following information:

a.

Name, address, and telephone number of the sign erector, sign owner, and property owner;

b.

Position of the sign in relation to adjacent lot lines, buildings, sidewalks, streets and intersections shown on a legal plat produced by a licensed surveyor or engineer;

c.

Type of sign and general description of structural design and construction materials to be used;

d.

Purpose of the proposed sign;

e.

Drawings of the proposed sign which shall contain specifications indicating the height, perimeter and area dimensions, means of support, method of illumination, colors, and any other significant aspect of the proposed sign;

f.

Tax map number, zoning and address of property on which the sign is to be located;

g.

Information pertaining to the number, shape size, type and conforming of existing signs on the subject property; and

h.

Any other information requested by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator in order to carry out the purpose and intent of these regulations.

4.

Liability Insurance Required. No sign which is located on or projects over a City right-of-way shall be erected unless an insurance policy shall have been filed for public liability with a total limit of $600,000 per accident, $300,000 per person bodily injury and $150,000 property damage. Such policy shall be issued by an insurance company authorized to do business in the State of Virginia. The policy shall name the City as a coinsured and shall required thirty days written notice to the City before modification or cancellation. Such insurance policy shall hold the City harmless from any and all claims or demands for damages or negligence. The policy shall be maintained for the duration of the time that the sign remains erected.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § C, 2-17-04)

For the purpose of this article, certain terms and words pertaining to signs are hereby defined. A "sign" is defined as any writing, letter work or numeral, pictorial presentation, illustration or decoration, emblem, device, symbol or trademark, flag, banner, pennant, or any other device, figure or character which is employed to announce, direct attention to, identify, or make known, and which is visible from a public street or sidewalk or area of exterior public congregation. In addition, the general rules of interpretation contained in this article are applicable to the following definitions.

1.

Abandoned Sign. An existing sign that advertises a business that is no longer in operation. This shall not apply to sign listings within a multi-tenant buildings in which tenants change. Allowances for tenant changes will be made for such signs, without requiring that the sign be declared abandoned.

2.

Accessory Sign. A sign relating only to the uses of the premises on which the sign is located or products sold on the premises on which the sign is located, or indicating the name or address of a building, the occupants or management of a building on the premises where the sign is located.

3.

Animated Sign. A sign utilizing any form of movement, including, but not limited to, animation, revolution, vertical or horizontal motion, whether electrical, mechanical, windblown, or through change in lighting. For the sake of this Ordinance, electronic changeable copy signs will be considered as a Changeable Copy Sign.

4.

Awning Sign. A sign painted or printed on, attached flat or sewn onto valance or body of any awning.

5.

Banner. A piece of cloth, plastic or other flexible material on which words, letter, figures, colors, designs or symbols are inscribed or affixed for the purposes of advertisement, identification, display, or direction and which is suspended for display, typically from buildings or poles on a temporary or short term basis.

6.

Billboard Sign. A sign used as an outdoor display for the purpose of advertising or promoting a business, service, activity or products, which is not located on the premises on which a sign is situated. Also referred to as Outdoor Advertising Sign.

7.

Building Mounted Sign. A sign attached to, painted on, inscribed upon or deriving its major support from a building, including a wall sign, a projecting sign, a canopy sign, a marquee or an awning sign. For the purpose of this ordinance, permanent signs intended for the purpose of exterior observance which are painted on windows or doors, attached to windows or doors, or hung behind and within three feet of the windows or doors, either illuminated or non-illuminated, shall be considered a building mounted sign subject to the sign area regulations contained in this article.

8.

Bulletin Board. A sign that identifies an institution or organization on the premises of which it is located and that contains the name of the institution or organization, the names of individuals connected with it, and general announcements of events or activities occurring at the institution or similar message.

9.

Canopy Sign. A sign attached to or displayed on a canopy. For the purpose of this Article, a canopy is a permanent, roof-like structure of rigid materials either supported by and extending from a building or freestanding, including marquee or porte cocheres.

10.

Changeable Copy Sign. A sign or part of a sign designed so that characters, letters, or illustrations can be changed or rearranged.

11.

Conspicuous vehicle sign. Any sign mounted or painted on or otherwise affixed to any parked vehicle, parked trailer, or other parked device capable of being towed, which is obviously and conspicuously parked so as to advertise the business to the passing motorist or pedestrian, and for which the primary purpose is to provide additional on-site signage or is to serve the function of an outdoor advertising sign. Excluded from this sign type are vehicles and equipment in operating condition which are currently registered and licensed to operate on public streets with a valid inspection sticker and which are actively used in the daily function of the business to which such signs related.

12.

Construction Sign. A temporary sign which identifies the character of facilities being actively constructed or altered, the anticipated sale, lease or rental of those facilities, or the identity of the persons or firms engaged in the promotion, financing, design, construction, or alteration of such facilities.

13.

Detached Sign. See Freestanding Sign.

14.

Directional Sign. An on-premises sign giving directions, instructions, and/or facility information, but containing no advertising copy (e.g., parking, exit, or entrance signs).

15.

Directory Sign. A subsidiary sign listing the names, uses, or location of various businesses conducted within a building or group of buildings.

16.

Double-Faced Sign. A sign with two parallel, or nearly parallel, faces, back to back, and located no more than 24 inches from each other.

17.

Externally Illuminated Sign. A sign which does not produce artificial light from within itself but which is opaque and illuminated by spotlights or floodlights not a part of or attached to the sign itself.

18.

Freestanding Sign. A sign, supported by one or more columns, uprights or braces, in or upon the ground, but not attached to any building. A sign attached to a flat surface not a part of the building, such as a fence or wall, shall be considered a freestanding sign. A monument sign, as defined herein below, shall also be considered a freestanding sign. For the purposes of this ordinance, a freestanding sign listing two or more businesses located on a property or in a shopping center, and which is designed as one sign, shall be considered one freestanding sign.

19.

Festoons. A string of ribbons, tinsel, flags, pennants, pinwheels, or similar devices.

20.

Flashing Sign. An illuminated sign on which the artificial or reflected light is not maintained stationary and constant in intensity and color at all times when in use.

21.

Flat Sign. See Wall Sign.

22.

Gasoline Station Sign. Signs for buildings and premises in which the primary source of revenue is the retail dispensing of motor fuels. This information must be verified by applicant prior to the issuance of sign permits.

23.

General Advertising Sign. Any sign which is not an accessory sign or which is not specifically limited to a special purpose by these regulations.

23.5.

Ghost Sign. A sign painted on an exterior wall or walls of a building or structure that have become faded due to natural weathering. Such sign(s) must be at least 50 years old. No sign that has been painted over to make it no longer visible from a public right-of-way, or has been painted over with a subsequent commercial message shall be considered a ghost sign, however if a sign is revealed through the removal of paint, this provision shall not apply.

24.

Informational Sign. A sign of a public or quasi-public nature which identifies or locates a hospital, public building, college, university, public parking area, historic area, major tourist attraction, public recreation area or similar public or quasi-public activity, which shall be approved on a case-by-case basis by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator.

25.

Internally Illuminated Sign. Any sign designed to radiate artificial light from within itself.

26.

Marquee. A permanent structure, awning or canopy projecting beyond a building wall at an entrance to a building or extending along and projecting beyond the building's wall and generally designed and constructed to provide protection against the weather.

27.

Marquee Sign. Any sign attached to or hung from a marquee.

28.

Monument Sign. A ground mounted sign which is mounted on a contiguous base having a minimum width of at least ninety percent (90%) of the sign width and its supporting structure and not attached to any building. For the purposes of this ordinance, a monument sign listing two or more businesses located on a property or in a shopping center and which is designed as one sign shall be considered one monument sign.

29.

Off Premises Directional Sign. A sign which is not located on the same premises as the use to which it refers and which is intended to provide information as to the identity and location of use, but which does not otherwise qualify as an advertising sign.

30.

Off Premises Directional Open House Sign. A temporary sign which is intended to provide information on the location of a real estate open house, and which is not located on the same premises as the dwelling unit to which it refers.

31.

Outdoor Advertising Sign. A freestanding or building mounted sign which bears a message which does not pertain to the use of the property, where the sign is located, and which does not identify the place of business, if any, where the sign is located as the purveyor or merchandise or services upon the property, Outdoor advertising signs may also be referred to as "billboards" or "poster panels", but such signs shall not be interpreted to mean informational signs allowed by this article.

32.

Pole Sign. A freestanding sign supported by one or more pole structures or by two or more uprights or braces placed in the ground.

33.

Political Sign. A sign which pertains to an issue or candidate in an election.

34.

Primary Wall Frontage. The facade of a building which faces the primary public street bounding the structure, as defined by the plat of record for the subject lot. In circumstances where it is unclear which street serves as the primary street (and thus, which is the primary wall frontage), the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator will be responsible for determining the primary wall frontage.

35.

Projecting Banner. A piece of cloth, plastic coated cloth or other flexible material approved by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, not to include plastic or vinyl coated plastic, which is attached to and perpendicular to the face of a wall of a building and which extends twelve (12) inches or more from the building wall or face, but not more than four (4) feet from said wall, on which words, letter, figures, colors, designs or symbols are inscribed or affixed for the purposes of advertisement, identification, display, or direction and which is suspended for display, typically from buildings or poles on a permanent basis.

36.

Projecting Sign. A sign or permanent banner which is attached and perpendicular to the face of a wall of a building and which extends twelve (12) inches or more from the building wall or face, but not more than four (4) feet from said wall.

37.

Real Estate Sign. A temporary sign which advertises the sale, lease, rental, or display of the lot or building upon which such sign is displayed.

38.

Roof Sign. A sign which is an integral part of the building design and is attached to, painted on, or supported by the roof of a building.

39.

Sign. Any writing, letter work or numeral, pictorial presentation, illustration or decoration, emblem, device, symbol or trademark, flag, banner, pennant, or any other device, figure or character which is employed to announce, direct attention to, identify, or make known, and which is visible from a public street or sidewalk or area of public congregation.

40.

Sign Area. That area which outlines the outer extremities of all letters, figures, characters, and delineations, or within an area including the outer extremities of the framework or background of the sign, whichever includes the larger area. The support for the sign background, whether it be columns, a pylon, or a building or part thereof, shall not be included in the sign area. Only one side of a double-faced sign shall be included in a computation of sign area, if the faces are not more than 24 inches apart. For other signs with more than one face which are more than 24 inches apart, each side shall be included in a computation of sign area. The area of a cylindrical or spherical sign shall be computed by multiplying the diameter of the cylinder by the height of the sign.

41.

Sign Height. The vertical distance from the street grade or the average lot grade at the front setback line, whichever produces the greater vertical distance, to the highest point of the sign.

42.

Sign Maintenance. The replacing or repairing of a part of portion of a sign made necessary by ordinary wear, tear or damage beyond the control of the owner of a sign, property, or establishment for which the sign is intended.

42.5

Sponsorship signs on Public Facilities or Public Land. A sign advertising activities of sponsoring organizations for public facilities or public land.

43.

Street Frontage. The entire length of that part of a lot that fronts on a public street, as defined by the plat of record for the subject lot.

44.

Temporary Sign. A sign, banner, balloon, A-frame sign structure, pennant, poster, or advertising display constructed of cloth, plastic, sheet, cardboard, wallboard, or other materials, intended to be displayed for a limited period of time, and not permanently attached to a building or the ground. For the purpose of this definition, a "limited period of time" is defined as a not more than thirty (30) days during a period of 365 consecutive days.

45.

Wall Sign. A building mounted sign which is attached to, painted on, inscribed upon, or deriving its major support from a wall and which projects less than twelve (12) inches from the wall.

46.

Window Sign. A sign painted onto or physically affixed to a building window including upper floor windows and the glazing of doors or signs legible from any vehicular public right-of-way through a building window, limited to 20 percent of the total glass area of the window in which they are placed.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § D, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-08.04, 8-2-05; Ord. No. 2005-09.04, 9-6-05; Ord. No. 2007-10.02, 10-2-07; Ord. No. 2011-12.02, 12-20-11; Ord. No. 2013-04.05, 4-16-13)

The following regulations shall apply generally to all signs and are in addition to the regulations that apply to signs in each district:

1.

Sign Information and Sign Erection. All signs shall be erected on or before the expiration of the permit; otherwise, the permit shall become null and void and a new permit shall be required. Each sign requiring a permit shall be clearly marked with the permit number and name of the person or firm placing the sign on the premises. Fees for sign permits shall be in accordance with this article or as may be otherwise amended from time to time by the City Council.

2.

Number of Signs. Except as otherwise provided, these regulations shall be interpreted to permit one sign of each permitted basic sign type, in accordance with applicable regulations, for each street frontage, for each permitted use on the premises. For the purpose of this regulation, basic sign types are free standing sign (including monument sign), building mounted sign, projecting sign, and temporary sign.

3.

Responsibility. The owner and/or tenant of the premises and the owner and/or erector of the sign shall be held responsible for any violation of these regulations. Where a sign has been erected in accordance with these regulations, the sign company shall be relieved of further responsibility under these regulations after final approval of the sign by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator.

4.

Maintenance. All signs shall be maintained in good condition and appearance. Lights for illuminated signs shall be maintained in good working order. After due notice has been given as provided below, the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator may cause to be removed any sign which shows gross neglect or becomes dilapidated, at the owner's expense.

5.

Removal. The Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator shall remove or cause to be removed any sign erected or maintained in conflict with these regulations if the owner or lessee of either the site or the sign fails to correct the violation within 30 days after receiving written notice of violation from the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator. Removal of a sign by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator shall not affect any proceedings instituted prior to removal of such sign.

6.

Landscaping. A landscaped planting area shall be provided around the base of any freestanding or detached sign. The planting area shall contain an amount equal to the area of the sign, be a minimum of 4 feet in width, be protected from vehicular encroachment, and be landscaped with a combination of low-growing shrubs and ground covers (other than grass), including at least 4 shrubs. The landscape treatment shall be designed and maintained to not exceed a height of 3 feet above the grade.

7.

Changeable message signs. Changeable message signs, including those with panels, including electronic changeable copy panels, or zip tracks, are allowed. The changeable message area of the sign may cover the entire maximum allowable sign area. Electronic changeable copy panels are allowed so long as the message is placed on the sign for a minimum duration of five (5) seconds and does not scroll either horizontally or vertically.

8.

Structural and safety characteristics. Structural and safety features and electrical systems shall be in accordance with the requirements of the applicable codes and ordinances. No sign shall be approved for use unless the structural plans have been reviewed, a permit has been issued, and the plans are in compliance with all the requirements of this Ordinance and applicable technical codes. All signs which are electrically illuminated shall require a separate electrical permit and inspection by the City's Building Inspector.

9.

Illumination standards. Externally illuminated signs shall be illuminated only by a steady, stationary, light source directed only at the sign without causing glare for motorists and pedestrians or illumination spill over on neighboring properties. Internally illuminated signs shall be illuminated only by a steady, stationary, light source internal to the sign without causing glare for motorists and pedestrians or illumination spill over on neighboring properties.

10.

Sight distance. The land adjoining a street intersection that is to be kept clear of obstructions between three (3) and seven (7) feet above the ground to protect the visibility and safety of motorists and pedestrians. The impact of sign placement, size and height shall be addressed with each sign permit application, with graphic information to be provided with the submission of a site plan sufficient for the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator to assess an applicant's site distance determination, in no case shall a sign projecting over a vehicular use area be less than fourteen (14) feet above grade.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § E, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-08.04, 8-2-05)

1.

Sign area computations. The sign area shall be calculated as the entire area within a single continuous perimeter, and a single plane, composed of a square, circle, rectangle or other geometric figure that encloses the extreme limits of the sign's message background and trim, and including all letters, figures, graphics or other elements of the sign.

2.

Frame and bracing elements. Any supporting frame and bracing members of a sign shall not be included in the sign area calculations provided that (a) there are two or less such members per sign, (b) any member does not exceed six inches in diameter or square, (c) the member has no advertising value, and (d) the supporting member does not form an integral part of the sign display, as determined by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator.

3.

Sign faces calculated. The sign area shall be calculated based upon the maximum number of faces viewable for any single ground position, as follows:

a.

Single faced sign: One face counted.

b.

Double faced sign: Each face counted.

c.

"V" sign width and angle of 45 degree or greater: Two faces counted.

d.

Three dimensional sign: Projected to single flat planes, all visible sign faces counted.

e.

Cylindrical sign: The sign area on each side of the cylinder shall be calculated by multiplying the height of the cylinder by the diameter of the cylinder.

4.

Computations of sign height. The dimension from the top of any point on a sign, including its support structure, of any sign erected within thirty (30) feet of a street shall be the distance from the grade level of the nearest curb of the street to the top of the sign or sign structure, whichever is greater. The height of all signs farther than thirty (30) feet from a street shall be the distance from the grade level where the sign is erected to the top of the sign or sign structure whichever is greater.

5.

Computation of maximum allowable sign area.

a.

The total allowable sign area for all applicable signs shall not exceed the area defined in each sign district for each linear foot of building front along each street regardless of the setback depth. All signs except for those exempted for permit, temporary signs, directory signs and directional signs shall be counted in calculating the allowable sign area.

b.

On multi-frontage locations, the allowable sign area for all applicable signs on each additional street frontage shall be located only on that frontage. Building frontage facing publicly accessible parking lots may be considered a multi-frontage location. Alleyways and street frontage facing residential zones are not allowable multi-frontage locations.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § F, 2-17-04)

The following signs are exempted from the provisions of this article and may be erected or constructed without a permit but in accordance with the structural and safety requirements of the building code.

1.

Traffic Signs and Signals. Signs erected and maintained pursuant to and in discharge of any federal, state, or county government function, or as may be required by law, ordinance, or governmental regulation including official traffic signs and signals, warning devices, and other similar signs.

2.

Changing of message content. Changing a copy on a bulletin board, poster board, display encasement, marquee or changeable copy sign.

3.

Home/garage/yard sales sign. Temporary signs advertising a home, garage or yard sale, as differentiated from signs advertising established commercial enterprises and real estate sales, may be erected in any zoning district subject to the following provisions:

a.

The sign may be erected only upon the property on which the sale is going to be held and the height shall not exceed six (6) feet; and

b.

The area of one side of any such sign shall not exceed four (4) square feet; and

c.

No more than two (2) such sales may be held per year on the same property; and

d.

Only one such sign may be erected on any one piece of property, unless the property fronts on two streets, in which case one sign is authorized on each street frontage; and

e.

The sign shall be installed no earlier than three (3) days prior to the sale and shall be removed within one day after the sale. In no case shall such signs be permitted to remain on the property in excess of seven (7) days.

4.

Temporary window sign (Non-illuminated). Temporary, non-illuminated window signs in display windows in a business district, limited to 10 percent of the total glass area of the window in which they are placed.

5.

Temporary real estate signs (Non-illuminated). Temporary, non-illuminated real estate signs advertising real estate for sale or lease shall be exempt from obtaining a sign permit with the following restrictions:

a.

All real estate signs advertising commercial property or a residential subdivision of 10 subdivided lots or more shall be a maximum of thirty-two (32) square feet and shall not exceed 24 months in use.

b.

All real estate signs advertising single-family residential lots for sale or lease shall not exceed 4 square feet in area and 4 feet in height and shall be limited to one per lot.

c.

There shall be no more than one real estate sign per road frontage and the sign must be located on the property.

d.

Off premises open house real estate signs advertising the sale, lease or rental of property shall be allowed in conjunction with and for the duration of an open house showing only and shall be limited to 4 square feet in area and 4 feet in height.

6.

Public auction/sales signs (Non-illuminated). Non-illuminated signs advertising public auctions or sales, as differentiated from signs advertising established commercial enterprises, real estate sales and home/garage/yard sales, may be erected in any zoning district subject to the following provisions:

a.

The sign may be erected only upon the property on which the auction is going to be held; and

b.

The area of one side of any such sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet and the height shall not exceed six (6) feet; and

c.

No more than three (3) such sales may be held per year on the same property; and

d.

Only one such sign may be erected on any one piece of property, unless the property fronts on two streets, in which case one sign is authorized on each street frontage; and

e.

The sign shall be installed no earlier than thirty (30) days prior to the date of the sale and shall be removed no later than one (1) business day after the date of the sale or auction.

7.

Identifying sign for official state automobile inspection stations (Non-illuminated). Non-illuminated signs identifying official state automobile inspection stations and the inspection number which is due, provided that such signs shall not exceed 10 square feet in area and shall be limited to one sign for each street frontage. Such signs shall not be included in any computation of sign area. "A-frame" designs shall be considered as a single sign for the purposes of computing sign area.

8.

Temporary, non-illuminated construction signs. Temporary non-illuminated signs not more than 32 square feet in area, erected in connection with new construction work and displayed on the premises during such time as the actual construction work is in progress, one such sign for each street frontage.

9.

Signs warning trespassers (Non-illuminated). Non-illuminated signs warning trespassers or announcing property as posted, without limitations on number or placement, limited in area to three square feet.

10.

Mounted or painted sign on a vehicle. Mounted, attached or painted signs on an automobile, truck, bus, or other vehicle shall be permitted while in use in the normal course of business. Such signs must be of a size, style, mounting, color and configuration which would be in conformance with all Virginia Division of Motor Vehicle laws and regulations for on-street operation of the subject vehicle. The vehicle containing such sign shall be in operating condition, shall have proper Division of Motor Vehicle registration and inspection certifications. Parking areas on a lot for such vehicles must meet front yard building setback requirements and parking shall be restricted to bona fide parking or loading areas on a lot. Any sign shall which meets the definition of a Conspicuous Vehicle Sign, as defined, shall be prohibited.

11.

Political signs. Sign applicable to federal, state or local elections are permitted subject to the following provisions:

a.

The area of such sign shall not exceed eight (8) square feet and the height shall not exceed six (6) feet in residential districts; or thirty-two (32) square feet in commercial and industrial districts; and

b.

Such signs shall be removed no later than fourteen (14) days after the election.

12.

Sponsorship signs on Public Facilities or Public Land. Signs advertising activities of sponsoring organizations for public facilities or public land may be erected in any zoning district subject to the area of such sign shall not exceed that permitted for the underlying zoning district and the sign must be placed on the City of Danville public facility or public land which is the subject of said sponsorship.

13.

Signs of a constituted government body. Signs which are erected or posted and maintained for public safety and welfare or pursuant to any governmental function or regulation. This includes specially designed marquee signs used to advertise local government-sponsored, public events.

14.

The display of a national, state or municipal flag. The display of a government flag not exceeding 72 square feet in area per side within a residential district. The display of a government flag may not exceed the maximum sign area regulations of a freestanding sign within any commercial and industrial district without the approval of a special use permit. An application for a special use permit must provide photo simulations of "before and after" of the proposed governmental flag and the structure it is to be affixed.

15.

Memorial tablets and historic markers. Tablets or markers erected or approved by the Commonwealth of Virginia or City of Danville.

16.

Address signs. Signs which display names and/or address numbers only of residential occupant, with a face of thirty (30) square inches or less.

17.

Seasonal displays and decorations which do not advertise a product or service. Displays or decorations that are of a patriotic, religious or civic character on private property, not advertising a product or service, not displayed for a period to exceed 30 days.

18.

Artwork and statuary. Works of art that do not contain any commercial messages or references.

19.

Decals. Decals affixed to windows or door glass panes, such as those that indicate membership in a business group or credit cards accepted at the establishment, provided that such decals do not exceed 36 square inches.

20.

Handicapped parking space sign. Signs not exceeding two (2) square feet in area denoting reserved parking spaces for handicapped motorists, provided that such signs meet all ADA requirements.

21.

Private drive signs. On-premise private residential drive signs limited to one per drive entrance, not exceeding two (2) square feet in area, with language limited to "private drive" and the address of any residences utilizing the private drive.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § G, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-09.04, 9-6-05; Ord. No. 2007-10.02, 10-2-07; Ord. No. 2008-03.02, 3-4-08; Ord. No. 2013-04.05, 4-16-13)

The following signs and displays may be erected only after obtaining a temporary sign permit from the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator. The temporary sign permit shall cite the applicant's stated purpose for the sign, the size, type and configuration of the sign, and the time the sign is intended to be displayed as well as any other necessary information necessary to allow the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator to issue the permit. The Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator may issue temporary permits for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days, when in the opinion of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, the use of such signs and displays would be in the public interest and would not result in damage to private property. At the sole discretion of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, a permit for a temporary sign may be extended for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days. If a temporary sign is not removed by the expiration of the time limitation, the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator may remove the sign or display and charge the cost of the removal to the individual applicant or responsible enterprise.

1.

Commercial promotional signs. Special sales promotion displays in a district when such sales are permitted, including displays incidental to the opening of a new business and special one-time auctions of real or personal property in estate or bankruptcy sales.

2.

Commercial banner. Banners when used in conjunction with the opening of a new business or an establishment going out of business in any commercial or industrial district. Limit one banner per business, and the banner must be removed after four weeks.

3.

Residential banner. Banners when used to announce the grand opening and initiation of sales or leasing of lots and/or dwelling units within a newly developing residential project have at least 10 lots or units. The cumulative area of all such banners erected for any single residential project shall not exceed 32 square feet. Banners shall not be illuminated.

4.

Temporary portable sign. Temporary portable signs, such as "A-frame" signs, not exceeding 32 square feet in area, which are intended to identify or display information pertaining to an establishment for which permanent free-standing signage is an order as evidenced by presentation of a copy of an executed order form for such permanent signage to the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator. Such permit shall expire and the portable sign shall be removed upon the arrival of the permanent sign or 30 days, whichever shall occur first.

5.

Moored balloon and floating sign. Moored balloon and floating signs tethered to the ground or a structure, provided that the size, type, location and duration of such sign shall be approved at the sole discretion of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § H, 2-17-04)

1.

Outdoor advertising sign. Outdoor advertising signs, including billboards, unless otherwise specified in this ordinance.

2.

Permanent pennants and banners. Permanent pennants, banners, festoons, streamers, and all other flutter, spinning or similar type signs and advertising devices are prohibited, except for the following: national flags, flags of a political subdivision of the United States and two (2) decorative house flags per household and a maximum of (4) projecting banners per structure within the TW-C district, with a maximum of two(2) per street frontage. Flags of a bona fide civic, charitable, fraternal, and welfare organizations, during nationality recognized holiday periods, or during a special civic event, may be displayed by temporary permit as provided above in this article, and, further, provided that the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator may approve special flags and flag poles when, at the sole discretion, of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, they form an integral design feature of a building or group of buildings and not an ordinary advertising device.

3.

Permanent advertising on fences. Permanent advertising signs attached to fences in recreation areas are prohibited in all residential districts, provided that advertising sign for individual businesses which are intended to be placed on fences contained entirely within athletic fields may be permitted by special use permit.

4.

Roof sign and roof projecting sign. No sign which is not an integral part of the building design shall be fastened to and supported by or on the roof of a building and no projecting sign shall extend over or above the roof line or parapet wall of a building.

5.

Flashing sign. No flashing signs or signs containing strings of lights shall be permitted in any district. No such sign shall be constructed, erected, used, operated, or maintained which displays intermittent lights resembling, or seeming to resemble, the flashing lights customarily associated with danger or such as are customarily used by police, fire, or ambulance vehicles, or for navigation purposes.

6.

Sign causing visual confusion. No sign shall be constructed, erected, or operated, or maintained which is so located and so illuminated as to provide a background of colored lights blending with traffic signal lights which may confuse a motorist when viewed from normal approaching position of a vehicle at a distance of 25 to 300 feet. Such determination shall be made at the sole discretion of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator.

7.

Tree, utility pole and other related signs. No sign, except official notices of the City of Danville, shall be attached to trees, utility poles, public property, improvements within public rights of way, or on any unapproved supporting structure, with such determination made at the sole discretion of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator.

8.

Sign projecting over a public right of way. No signs shall project over public right-of-way without express permission of the Planning Commission in conjunction with the approval of a site plan, except for permitted flat signs which may project not more than 18 inches.

9.

Conspicuous vehicle sign. Any sign mounted or painted on or otherwise affixed to any parked vehicle, parked trailer, or other parked device capable of being towed, which is obviously and conspicuously parked so as to advertise the business to the passing motorist or pedestrian, and for which the primary purpose is to provide additional on-site signage or is to serve the function of an outdoor advertising sign. Excluded from this sign type are vehicles and equipment in operating condition which are currently registered and licensed to operate on public streets with a valid inspection sticker and which are actively used in the daily function of the business to which such signs related. Such determination shall be made by and at the sole discretion of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator.

10.

Signs attached to freestanding sign. Separate signs attached to a freestanding sign or its supporting structure, advertising services including but not limited to automobile travel clubs and credit cards.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § I, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2007-10.02, 10-2-07)

Any sign which (1) was erected in accordance with all applicable regulations in effect at the time of its erection, (2) was lawfully in existence at the time of the effective date of this ordinance, and (3) which does not conform to the provisions herein, and any sign which is accessory to a lawful nonconforming principal use, shall be deemed a lawful nonconforming sign, and may remain, subject to the following:

1.

A nonconforming sign must be maintained in good repair and condition. However, any sign which is declared to be unsafe or unlawful by any authorized City official because of its physical condition may not be restored, repaired or rebuilt, and, further, such sign must be removed at the expense of the owner of such sign or establishment related thereto.

2.

Nonconforming signs may not be enlarged, extended, modified, reconstructed or structurally altered except in accordance with this article.

(a)

A sign support, bracket or pole that is non-conforming due to location may be reused to erect a sign of conforming size or in compliance with subsections (b) and (c) below.

(b)

A non-conforming sign may be removed from its on-site location to allow for routine maintenance or repair off-site for a period of forty-five (45) days from the date of permit issuance. Such sign must be repaired and reinstalled within the forty-five (45) day period. Failure to apply for a permit prior to removal of said sign, or removal of sign for a period longer than forty-five (45) days will result in the loss of the legal non-conforming status of the sign.

(c)

A legal non-conforming sign due to size may be replaced with another sign of legal non-conforming size if said new legal non-conforming sign reduces the previous legal non-conformance by a minimum of thirty (30) percent.

3.

Nonconforming signs shall not be repainted or refaced when such action alters or changes the wording, composition, color or material of the sign unless such a change is specifically authorized by the issuance of a sign permit.

4.

No nonconforming sign shall be moved on the same lot or building or to another lot or building unless the sign as relocated is modified to comply with all requirements of this article.

5.

A nonconforming sign may not be reconstructed and must be removed if the structure building or use to which it is accessory is destroyed, or demolished to an extent exceeding fifty percent (50%) of the appraised value of the principal structure, building or use.

6.

A nonconforming sign which is destroyed or damaged to an extent exceeding fifty (50) percent of its appraised value may not be altered, replaced, or reinstalled unless it is in conformance with this article. If the damage or destruction is fifty (50) percent or less of the appraised value, the sign may be restored within 60 days of the damage, but shall not be enlarged in any manner.

7.

Applications for unusual signs or displays which give rise to questions of interpretation of these regulations may be referred by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator to the Planning Commission for the purpose of interpretation by the Planning Commission and recommendation for action on the application by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator. If, in the opinion of the Planning Commission, the application is not adequately covered by these regulations, the Planning Commission may direct the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator to make recommendations for amendment of this article.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § J, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-08.04, 8-2-05)

Any sign face(s) shall be removed or covered by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located when the business it advertises is no longer on the premises. Such sign, if not removed within thirty (30) days from the termination of occupancy by such business shall be considered to be in violation, and the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator may cause the abandoned sign face(s) to be removed at the property owner's expense. Any sign structure and accompanying framing or brackets, shall be removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located when the business it advertises is no longer on the premises. Such sign, if not removed within one hundred eighty (180) [days] from the termination of occupancy by such business shall be considered to be in violation, and the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator may cause the abandoned sign to be removed at the property owner's expense. Any pole or ground sign support structure, pole(s) or pole brackets, shall be removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located when the business it advertises is no longer on the premises within three hundred sixty-five (365) days from the termination of occupancy by such business. This shall not apply to sign listings within a multi-tenant buildings in which tenants change. Allowances for tenant changes will be made for such signs, without requiring that the sign be declared abandoned. This section shall not apply to ghost signs as defined in and permitted by Article 10.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § K, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-08.04, 8-2-05; Ord. No. 2011-12.02, 12-20-11)

The following signs shall be permitted in the City's residential districts as listed hereinabove:

1.

Freestanding Signs.

a.

Church, institutional or civic use identification. One freestanding monument sign, limited to thirty-two (32) square feet, in area for a church bulletin board or identifying a church, school, park, playground, library, museum, or other permitted public or semi-public use, recreational use or club, shall be permitted. An additional area not exceeding forty-four (44) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign. Pole signs are prohibited.

b.

Single family detached subdivision or project identification sign. One freestanding monument, sign per street entrance identifying a single-family detached residential subdivision or manufactured home park, limited in area to twenty-four (24) square feet, shall be permitted. Two (2) such signs are permitted if erected in conjunction with a media (formal gateway entrance) and approved as part of the plan of development or subdivision application. An additional area not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign. Pole signs are prohibited.

c.

Multi-family subdivision or project, nursing home or day care facility identification sign. One freestanding monument sign not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area identifying a multi-family development, single-family attached development site, nursing home, day care facility, and similar permitted uses in the district, shall be permitted. An additional area not exceeding forty-four (44) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign. Pole signs are prohibited.

d.

Bed and breakfast identification sign. One freestanding sign not exceeding twelve (12) square feet in area identifying a bed and breakfast, inn or tourist home, shall be permitted. An additional area not exceeding sixteen (16) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

e.

Dwelling unit identification sign. One freestanding sign limited in area to two (2) square feet, to identify the owner or occupant of a dwelling or building or a permitted home occupation, shall be permitted.

2.

Building Mounted Signs.

a.

Dwelling unit identification sign. One sign limited in area to two (2) square feet, to identify the owner or occupant of a dwelling or building or a permitted home occupation, shall be permitted.

b.

Multi-family building identification sign. One or more signs limited in aggregate area to ten (10) square feet, to identify the building address, shall be permitted.

c.

Decorative flags. One building mounted decorative flag, not to exceed fifteen (15) square feet in area, shall be allowed for a single-family dwelling unit. Such flag shall not indicate the name or logo of a business or home occupation, nor a written message pertaining to a business or home occupation.

3.

Directory Signs.

a.

Church directories. Directory signs are not permitted in residential districts, except for directories at churches and places of worship. Such directory signs shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding twenty-four (24) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

4.

Additional Regulations.

a.

Sign Height and Setback. All freestanding signs in these districts shall have a maximum height of 8 feet and shall not be located within five (5) feet of any public street right-of-way, or property line and shall not be located within ten (10) feet of any alley, private street or driveway intersecting a public or private street.

b.

Historic Preservation Overlay District (HP-O). In the HP-O District, the Review Commission shall approve the design compatibility of signs in accordance with Article 3.Q and may authorize an alternative signage plan that does not strictly adhere to the area, number, height and location criteria within the HP-O District if it is determined that the design is more consistent with the architectural character of the building to which it relates and other surrounding properties and as guided by the City of Danville's Historic District Guidelines for signs.

c.

Non-residential uses. Signs for non-residential uses shall be governed by the regulations for signs in the N-C and TO-C Districts.

5.

Summary Chart of Sign Regulations in Residential Districts.

Summary of Danville Sign Regulations
Residential Districts

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § L, 2-17-04)

The following signs shall be permitted in the N-C, Neighborhood Commercial District and the TO-C, Transitional Office District.

1.

Freestanding Signs.

a.

Business identification sign for a single occupant commercial building. One freestanding sign for identification of a bank, office building, funeral home studio, or its occupants or similar uses permitted in the N-C, Neighborhood Commercial District and the TO-C, Transitional Office District, shall be permitted. Such sign shall be limited in area to twenty-four (24) square feet. An additional area not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

b.

Business identification sign for a group of two or more contiguous stores or businesses per building. Permitted sign area shall be combined into a single freestanding sign advertising all businesses on the premises, shall be permitted. The combined sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding forty-four (44) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

c.

Directional signs. Directional signs limited in area to four (4) square feet shall be permitted as accessory signs and not included in any computation of sign area. One per entrance not to exceed three (3) feet in height nor located within five (5) feet of any street right-of-way line.

d.

Maximum size of signs may be waived by special use permit to match the limitations set forth in Section P, entitled "Permitted signs in the Highway Retail, HR-C and Planned Shopping Center, PS-C, Commercial Districts."

2.

Building Mounted Signs.

a.

Wall signs. One wall sign shall be permitted for each wall of the building facing a public street on the premises. Sign area shall be limited to one-half square foot (0.5 sf.) of sign per linear foot of building frontage. Under no circumstances shall any single sign exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.

b.

Projecting signs. One projecting sign shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises. Sign area limited to nine (9) square feet of area.

c.

Awning, canopy, or marquee signs. One awning, canopy or marquee sign shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises. Sign identification affixed to an awning, canopy, or marquee sign is allowed by-right. Sign area shall be limited to .5 square feet of sign per linear foot of building frontage. Under no circumstances shall any single sign exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.

3.

Directory Signs.

a.

Business directories. One directory sign is allowed per commercial building. Such directory signs shall not exceed eight (8) square feet in area. When directory is freestanding, an additional area not exceeding twelve (12) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

4.

Additional Regulations.

a.

All freestanding signs in these districts shall have a maximum height of ten (10) feet and shall not be located within ten (10) feet of any public street right-of-way, property line, alley, private street or driveway intersecting a public or private street. Additionally no freestanding sign shall be located within the area of a lot comprised of 30% of the total width or depth of the lot lying adjacent to a residential use.

b.

Historic Preservation Overlay District (HP-O). In the HP-O District, the Review Commission shall approve the design compatibility of signs in accordance with Article 3.Q and may authorize an alternative signage plan that does not strictly adhere to the area, number, height and location criteria within the HP-O District if it is determined that the design is more consistent with the architectural character of the building to which it relates and other surrounding properties and as guided by the City of Danville's Historic District Guidelines for signs.

c.

Signs permitted in all residential districts shall be permitted in the N-C and TO-C Commercial Districts, provided that signs identifying uses which are permitted in the residential districts shall be subject to the regulations set forth in that section.

d.

Additional regulations for establishments with gasoline sales when permitted by right or special use permit.

(1)

Types of signs permitted shall be flat, canopy, detached, and pump island. See regulations for this zoning district for size requirements for flat, canopy, and detached signs.

(2)

Gasoline Pump Island signs are subject to the following additional conditions:

a.

Two non-illuminated "self-serve" or "full-serve" signs per pump island not to exceed 2 square feet each; and

b.

One fuel price or promotional information sign per fuel pump not to exceed two square feet.

5.

Summary Chart of Sign Regulations in N-C and TO-C Commercial Districts.

Summary of Danville Sign Regulations
N-C and TO-C Commercial Districts

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § M, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2019-12.03, 12-3-19)

The following signs shall be permitted in the CB-C, Central Business Commercial District.

1.

Freestanding Signs.

a.

Business identification sign for a single occupant commercial building. One (1) freestanding sign for identification of a single business establishment shall be permitted. Such sign shall be limited in area to sixteen (16) square feet. An additional area not exceeding twenty-two (22) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

b.

Business identification sign for a group of two (2) or more contiguous stores or businesses per building. Permitted sign area shall be combined into a single freestanding sign advertising all businesses on the premises. The combined sign shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

c.

Directional signs. Directional signs limited in area to four (4) square feet shall be permitted as accessory signs and not included in any computation of sign area. One (1) per entrance not to exceed three (3) feet in height nor located within five (5) feet of any street right-of-way line.

d.

Maximum size of signs may be waived by special use permit to match the limitations set forth in Section P, entitled "Permitted signs in the Highway Retail, HR-C and Planned Shopping Center, PS-C, Commercial Districts."

2.

Building Mounted Signs.

a.

Wall signs. Wall signs shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises based on allowable square footage.

b.

Projecting signs. Four (4) projecting signs (including projecting banners) shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises with a maximum of fifty (50) square feet per projecting sign or banner, no more than two (2) projecting signs or banners per wall frontage per street or internal parking area, and a maximum total of one hundred (100) square feet per wall frontage may be used for projecting wall or banner signs. The minimum height of a projecting wall of a projecting wall or banner type signage shall be ten (10) feet over any area accessible to a pedestrian or automobile.

c.

Awning, canopy or marquee signs. One (1) awning, canopy or marquee sign shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises.

The combined sign area of wall, canopy, awning, and marquee signs shall not exceed the sum of the following:

• Two (2) square feet of sign per linear foot of primary wall frontage of the first two hundred (200) linear feet; and

• One (1) square foot per each linear foot beyond two hundred (200) total linear feet; and

• Two (2) square feet per one (1) vertical foot for every foot over twenty (20) feet in building height.

3.

Directory Signs.

a.

Business directories. One (1) directory sign is allowed per commercial building. Such directory signs shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area. When directory is freestanding, an additional area not exceeding twenty-four (24) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

4.

Additional Regulations.

a.

All freestanding signs in these districts shall have a maximum height of twelve (12) feet and shall not be located within five (5) feet of any public street right-of-way, property line, alley, private street or driveway intersecting a public or private street.

b.

Historic Preservation Overlay District (HP-O). In the HP-O District, the Review Commission shall approve the design compatibility of signs in accordance with Article 3.Q and may authorize an alternative signage plan that does not strictly adhere to the area, number, height and location criteria within the HP-O District if it is determined that the design is more consistent with the architectural character of the building to which it relates and other surrounding properties and as guided by the City of Danville's Historic District Guidelines for signs.

c.

Non-illuminated signs permitted in all residential districts shall be permitted in the TW-C Commercial District, provided that signs identifying uses which are permitted in the residential districts shall be subject to the regulations set forth in that section.

d.

Additional regulations for establishments with gasoline sales when permitted by right or special use permit.

(1)

Types of signs permitted shall be flat, canopy, detached, and pump island. See regulations for this zoning district for size requirements for flat, canopy, and detached signs.

(2)

Gasoline Pump Island signs are subject to the following additional conditions:

a.

Two (2) non-illuminated "self-serve" or "full-serve" signs per pump island not to exceed two (2) square feet each; and

b.

One (1) fuel price or promotional information sign per fuel pump not to exceed two (2) square feet.

5.

Summary Chart of Sign Regulations for CB-C Commercial District.

Summary of Danville Sign Regulations
CB-C Commercial District

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § N, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-01.03, 1-4-05; Ord. No. 2005-01.03, 1-4-05; Ord. No. 2005-02.05, 2-15-05; Ord. No. 2005-09.04, 9-6-05; Ord. No. 2018-02.01, 2-6-18; Ord. No. 2019-12.03, 12-3-19)

The following signs shall be permitted in the TW-C, Tobacco Warehouse Commercial District.

1.

Freestanding Signs.

a.

Business identification sign for a single occupant commercial building. One (1) freestanding sign for identification of a single business establishment shall be permitted. Such sign shall be limited in area to sixteen (16) square feet. An additional area not exceeding twenty-two (22) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

b.

Business identification sign for a group of two (2) or more contiguous stores or businesses per building. Permitted sign area shall be combined into a single freestanding sign advertising all businesses on the premises. The combined sign shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

c.

Directional signs. Directional signs limited in area to four (4) square feet shall be permitted as accessory signs and not included in any computation of sign area. One (1) per entrance not to exceed three (3) feet in height nor located within five (5) feet of any street right-of-way line.

d.

Maximum size of signs may be waived by special use permit to match the limitations set forth in Section P, entitled "Permitted signs in the Highway Retail, HR-C and Planned Shopping Center, PS-C, Commercial Districts."

2.

Building Mounted Signs.

a.

Wall signs. Wall signs shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises based on allowable square footage.

b.

Projecting signs. Four (4) projecting signs (including projecting banners) shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises with a maximum of fifty (50) square feet per projecting sign or banner, no more than two (2) projecting signs or banners per wall frontage per street or internal parking area, and a maximum total of one hundred (100) square feet per wall frontage may be used for projecting wall or banner signs. The minimum height of a projecting wall of a projecting wall or banner type signage shall be ten (10) feet over any area accessible to a pedestrian or automobile.

c.

Awning, canopy or marquee signs. One (1) awning, canopy or marquee sign shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises.

The combined sign area of wall, canopy, awning, and marquee signs shall not exceed the sum of the following:

• Two (2) square feet of sign per linear foot of primary wall frontage of the first two hundred (200) linear feet; and

• One (1) square foot per each linear foot beyond two hundred (200) total linear feet; and

• Two (2) square feet per one (1) vertical foot for every foot over twenty (20) feet in building height.

3.

Directory Signs.

a.

Business directories. One (1) directory sign is allowed per commercial building. Such directory signs shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area. When directory is freestanding, an additional area not exceeding twenty-four (24) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

4.

Additional Regulations.

a.

All freestanding signs in these districts shall have a maximum height of twelve (12) feet and shall not be located within five (5) feet of any public street right-of-way, property line, alley, private street or driveway intersecting a public or private street.

b.

Historic Preservation Overlay District (HP-O). In the HP-O District, the Review Commission shall approve the design compatibility of signs in accordance with Article 3.Q and may authorize an alternative signage plan that does not strictly adhere to the area, number, height and location criteria within the HP-O District if it is determined that the design is more consistent with the architectural character of the building to which it relates and other surrounding properties and as guided by the City of Danville's Historic District Guidelines for signs.

c.

Non-illuminated signs permitted in all residential districts shall be permitted in the TW-C Commercial District, provided that signs identifying uses which are permitted in the residential districts shall be subject to the regulations set forth in that section.

d.

Additional regulations for establishments with gasoline sales when permitted by right or special use permit.

(1)

Types of signs permitted shall be flat, canopy, detached, and pump island. See regulations for this zoning district for size requirements for flat, canopy, and detached signs.

(2)

Gasoline Pump Island signs are subject to the following additional conditions:

a.

Two (2) non-illuminated "self-serve" or "full-serve" signs per pump island not to exceed 2 square feet each; and

b.

One (1) fuel price or promotional information sign per fuel pump not to exceed two (2) square feet.

5.

Summary Chart of Sign Regulations in the TW-C Commercial District.

Summary of Danville Sign Regulations
TW-C Commercial District

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § O, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-09.04, 9-6-05; Ord. No. 2007-10.02, 10-2-07; Ord. No. 2018-02.01, 2-6-18; Ord. No. 2019-12.03, 12-3-19)

The following signs shall be permitted in the HR-C and the PS-C Commercial Districts:

1.

Freestanding Signs.

a.

Business identification sign for a single occupant commercial building. One freestanding or monument sign for identification of a single business establishment shall be permitted. Such sign shall be limited in area to seventy-five (75) square feet. An additional area not exceeding one hundred (100) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

b.

Business identification sign for a group of two or more contiguous stores or businesses per building and less than 60,000 gross leasable square feet. Permitted sign area shall be combined into a single freestanding or monument sign advertising all businesses on the premises. The combined sign shall not exceed one hundred and twenty-five (125) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding one hundred and fifty (150) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

c.

Business identification sign for a group of two or more contiguous stores or businesses per building and more than 60,000 gross leasable square feet. Permitted sign area shall be combined into a single freestanding or monument sign advertising all businesses on the premises. The combined sign shall not exceed one hundred and seventy-five (175) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding two hundred (200) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

d.

Directional signs. Directional signs limited in area to four (4) square feet shall be permitted as accessory signs and not included in any computation of sign area. One per entrance or exit not to exceed four (4) feet in height nor located within five (5) feet of any street right-of-way line.

e.

Business identification signs for a group of four (4) or more contiguous stores or businesses per building and more than four hundred thousand (400,000) gross leasable square feet in the contiguous building. Notwithstanding anything contained in this section to the contrary:

(1)

Quantity. No more than one (1) freestanding signs per entrance to a public street connection of the premises shall be permitted. Any such sign may have two (2) faces counted as a single sign for area calculation (only one (1) face is included in the measurement) regardless of the thickness of the sign so long as such faces are attached to the same structure at no more than a sixty-five-degree angle from one another. A freestanding sign must be located adjacent to or within one hundred (100) feet of the entrance to a public street.

(2)

Area. The combined sign area of any individual sign face shall not exceed three hundred (300) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding three hundred (300) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign.

(3)

And which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

(4)

Height. The freestanding signs shall have a maximum height of thirty (30) feet to be measured from the higher of the top of the nearest roadside curb or the surface elevation of the premises where the sign is located at the setback line.

(5)

Setback. No sign shall be located within ten (10) feet of any public street right-of-way unless said sign is located at least eight (8) feet above grade at the lowest point of any reader board or changeable panel. If a changeable panel or reader board is located eight (8) feet above grade, then the setback may be zero (0) feet. There will be no required setback from any internal driveway; however, no portion of any freestanding sign shall be located within ten (10) feet of any overhead electrical service cable.

2.

Building Mounted Signs.

a.

Wall signs. Wall signs shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises.

b.

Projecting signs. One projecting sign shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises. Additionally each side of a projecting sign must be counted towards the total allowable sign area.

c.

Awning, canopy or marquee signs. Awning, canopy or marquee signs shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises.

The combined sign area of wall, projecting, canopy, awning, and marquee signs shall not exceed the sum of the following:

•

Two (2) square feet of sign per linear foot of primary wall frontage of the first two hundred (200) linear feet;

•

One (1) square foot per each linear foot beyond two hundred (200) total linear feet; and

•

Two (2) square feet per one (1) vertical foot for every foot over twenty (20) feet in building height.

3.

Directory Signs.

a.

Business directory for a single occupant commercial building. One directory sign is allowed per commercial building. Such directory signs shall not exceed thirty (30) square feet in area When directory is freestanding, an additional area not exceeding forty-eight (48) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

b.

Business directory for a group of two or more contiguous stores or businesses per building and less than 60,000 gross leasable square feet. One directory sign is allowed. Such directory signs shall not exceed thirty (30) square feet in area When directory is freestanding, an additional area not exceeding forty-eight (48) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

c.

Business directory for a group of two or more contiguous stores or businesses per building and more than 60,000 gross leasable square feet. One directory sign is allowed. Such directory signs shall not exceed forty-five (45) square feet in area When directory is freestanding, an additional area not exceeding forty-eight (48) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

4.

Additional Regulations.

a.

Freestanding signs for single occupant commercial buildings or buildings with two or more tenants and less than 60,000 gross leasable square feet, in these districts, shall have a maximum height of thirty (30) feet and shall not be located within ten (10) feet of any public street right-of-way, property line, alley private street or driveway entrance intersecting a public or private street. If a sign is located a minimum of twenty (20) feet from any public street right-of-way then the minimum side yard and driveway setback shall be zero (0) feet.

b.

Freestanding signs for buildings with two or more tenants and more than 60,000 gross leasable square feet, in these districts, shall have a maximum height of thirty (30) feet and shall not be located within ten (10) feet of any public street right-of-way, property line, alley, private street or driveway entrance intersecting a public or private street. If a sign is located a minimum of twenty (20) feet from any public street right-of-way then the minimum side yard and driveway setback shall be zero (0) feet.

c.

Individual free-standing signs for individual shopping center tenants shall not be permitted. For the purposes of this section, lawfully subdivided out parcels which have been depicted on the approved shopping center site plan shall be considered as separate parcels and may be signed as such.

d.

Historic Preservation Overlay District (HP-O). In the HP-O District, the Review Commission shall approve the design compatibility of signs in accordance with Article 3.Q and may authorize an alternative signage plan that does not strictly adhere to the area, number, height and location criteria within the HP-O District if it is determined that the design is more consistent with the architectural character of the building to which it relates and other surrounding properties and as guided by the City of Danville's Historic District Guidelines for signs.

e.

Non-illuminated signs permitted in all residential districts shall be permitted in the HR-C and PS-C Commercial Districts, provided that signs identifying uses which are permitted in the residential districts shall be subject to the regulations set forth in that section.

f.

Additional regulations for establishments with gasoline sales when permitted by right or special use permit.

(1)

Types of signs permitted shall be flat, canopy, detached, and pump island. See regulations for this zoning district for size requirements for flat, canopy, and detached signs.

(2)

Gasoline Pump Island signs are subject to the following additional conditions:

a.

Two non-illuminated "self-serve" or "full-serve" signs per pump island not to exceed 2 square feet each; and

b.

One fuel price or promotional information sign per fuel pump not to exceed two square feet.

5.

Summary Chart of Sign Regulations in HR-C and PS-C Commercial Districts.

Summary of Danville Sign Regulations
HR-C and PS-C Commercial Districts

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § P, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2005-04.04, 4-5-05; Ord. No. 2013-07.04, 7-2-13)

The following illuminated or non-illuminated signs shall be permitted in the CP-1, Cyber Park One District, the LED-I, Light Economic Development District and the M-I, Manufacturing Industrial District:

1.

Freestanding Signs.

a.

Business identification sign for a commercial building with 60,000 gross leasable square feet or less. One freestanding or monument sign for identification of a single business establishment shall be permitted. Such sign shall be limited in area to seventy-five (75) square feet. An additional area not exceeding one hundred (100) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

b.

Business identification sign for a commercial building with more than 60,000 gross leasable square feet. Permitted sign area shall be combined into a single freestanding sign advertising all businesses on the premises. The combined sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding one hundred and fifty (150) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

c.

Directional signs. Directional signs limited in area to eight (8) square feet shall be permitted as accessory signs and not included in any computation of sign area. One sign per entrance or exit not to exceed ten (10) feet in height nor located within five (5) feet of any street right-of-way line.

d.

Development name sign for business/industrial park provided that it is:

1.

Located on private property.

2.

Is erected permanently as a marker at the entrance to a development.

3.

Denotes the name of the development and existing tenants within the boundaries of that specific development or park only.

4.

Permitted sign area shall be combined into a single freestanding or monument sign advertising all businesses/industries on the premises. The combined sign shall not exceed one hundred and seventy-five (175) square feet in area. An additional area not exceeding two hundred (200) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

5.

Existing businesses/industries shall be permitted individual signage as permitted in subsections a., b., or c. as applicable to the individual lot development.

2.

Building Mounted Signs.

a.

Wall signs. One wall signs shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises.

b.

Projecting signs. One projecting sign shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises. Additionally each side of a projecting sign must be counted towards the total allowable sign area.

c.

Awning, canopy or marquee signs. One awning, canopy or marquee sign shall be permitted for each establishment on the premises.

The combined sign area of wall, projecting, canopy, awning, and marquee signs shall not exceed the sum of the following:

•

Two (2) square feet of sign per linear foot of primary wall frontage of the first two hundred (200) linear feet;

•

One (1) square foot per each linear foot beyond two hundred (200) total linear feet;

•

Two (2) square feet per one (1) vertical foot for every foot over twenty (20) feet in building height.

3.

Directory Signs.

a.

Business directories. One directory sign is allowed per commercial building. Such directory signs shall not exceed sixteen (24) square feet in area When directory is freestanding, an additional area not exceeding thirty-six (36) square feet may be devoted to architectural elements which serve as support or base for such sign and which are not part of the message portion of the sign.

4.

Additional Regulations.

a.

All freestanding signs in these districts shall have a maximum height of twenty-four (24) feet and shall not be located within twenty (20) feet of any public street right-of-way, property line, alley, private street or driveway intersecting a public or private street. No sign shall be located within twenty (20) feet of any residential district.

b.

Historic Preservation Overlay District (HP-O). In the HP-O District, the Review Commission shall approve the design compatibility of signs in accordance with Article 3.Q and may authorize an alternative signage plan that does not strictly adhere to the area, number, height and location criteria within the HP-O District if it is determined that the design is more consistent with the architectural character of the building to which it relates and other surrounding properties and as guided by the City of Danville's Historic District Guidelines for signs.

c.

Non-illuminated signs permitted in all residential districts shall be permitted in the in the CP-1, Cyber Park One District, the LED-I, Light Economic Development District and the M-I, Manufacturing Industrial District, provided that signs identifying uses which are permitted in the residential districts shall be subject to the regulations set forth in that section.

d.

Additional regulations for establishments with gasoline sales when permitted by right or special use permit.

(1)

Types of signs permitted shall be flat, canopy, detached, and pump island. See regulations for this zoning district for size requirements for flat, canopy, and detached signs.

(2)

Gasoline Pump Island signs are subject to the following additional conditions:

a.

Two non-illuminated "self-serve" or "full-serve" signs per pump island not to exceed 2 square feet each; and

b.

One fuel price or promotional information sign per fuel pump not to exceed two square feet.

5.

Summary Chart of Sign Regulations in CP-1, LED-I and M-I Industrial Districts.

Summary of Danville Sign Regulations
CP-1, LED-I and M-I Industrial Districts

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § Q, 2-17-04; Ord. No. 2018-03.03, 3-6-18)

1.

Cause for Exceptions. In order to provide for adjustments in the relative locations of signs of the same or different classifications, to promote the usefulness of these regulations as instruments of fact finding, interpretation, application and adjustment, and to supply the necessary elasticity to their efficient operation, special sign exceptions may be granted by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, as permitted by the terms of these regulations. Towards this end, an owner of a property or business may apply to the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator for a special sign exception permit.

2.

Considerations for Exceptions. In considering an application for a special sign exception, the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator shall give due regard to the specific guidelines and standards of this article and those listed elsewhere in this ordinance, and in general to the nature and condition of adjacent uses and structures, and probable effect upon them of the proposed exception. The Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator shall also take into account the special characteristics, design, location, construction, method of operation, effect on nearby properties, or any other aspects of the particular sign that may be proposed by the applicant.

3.

Adverse Effect. If the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator should find, after meeting with the applicant, that the proposed sign; (a.) will not adversely affect the community appearance, health, safety, or welfare of persons residing or working on the premises or in the neighborhood or corridor, (b.) will not unreasonably impair the desired character of the district, corridor or adjacent districts, (c.) nor be incompatible with the land use plans and objectives of the official Comprehensive Plan of Danville, (d.) nor be likely to reduce or impair the value of buildings or property in surrounding areas, (e.) but that such sign will be in substantial accordance with the general purpose and objectives of this article, then the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, may grant the exception and authorize the issuance, of a special sign exception permit.

4.

Conditions for Mitigation. In those instances where the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator finds that the proposed sign may be likely to have an adverse effect as above, he shall determine whether such effect can be avoided by the imposition of any special requirements or conditions with respect to location, design, construction, equipment, maintenance or operation, in addition to those expressly stipulated in this article, and may grant a special sign exception subject to such reasonable conditions and limitations as the case may require, including but not limited to limitation as to size, type, color, graphic design, location or illumination.

5.

Application Checklist. The Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator shall develop a brief check list which summarizes the City's expectations with respect to special sign exceptions as outlined in this district. Applicants will be required to submit a completed checklist with each application for a special sign exception.

6.

Application Fee. An application fee to be submitted with any special sign exception application shall be established by the City Council.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § R, 2-17-04)

Appeal on the grounds of hardship or on the basis of any other decision by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator shall be made to the Board of Zoning Appeals. Such appeal can be made by filing with the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator a written request within 10 days of the decision of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator. The appeal shall proceed under the law, procedure and rules established for the function of the Board of Zoning Appeals.

(Ord. No. 2004-02.04, Art. 10, § S, 2-17-04)

A sign as defined by the following: (1) a sign painted on an exterior wall or walls of a building or structure that have become faded due to natural weathering. (2) Such sign(s) must be at least 50 years old. (3) No sign that has been painted over to make it no longer visible from a public right-of-way, or has been painted over with a subsequent commercial message shall be considered a ghost sign, however if a sign is revealed through the removal of paint, this provision shall not apply. A ghost sign shall be deemed a lawful sign, and may remain, subject to the following:

1.

A Ghost sign must be visible from a public right-of-way, place or facility.

2.

A Ghost sign may not be enlarged, extended, or modified.

A Ghost sign shall not be repainted or refaced when such action alters or changes the wording, composition, or color of the sign.

4.

No Ghost sign shall be moved on the same lot or building or to another lot or building.

5.

A Ghost sign may not be repainted and must be removed if the structure building or use to which it is accessory is destroyed, or demolished to an extent exceeding fifty percent (50%) of the appraised value of the principal structure, building or use.

6.

Application for a Ghost sign permit must be made by the owner of the building, lot or parcel on which the sign is to be repainted.

7.

Applications for Ghost sign permit shall be made to the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator. If such a permit is denied by the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator, an appeal of the determination of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator may be made to the City Council within thirty (30) days of the Director of Planning/Zoning Administrator's decision.

(Ord. No. 2011-12.02, 12-20-11)