Denmark Village City Zoning Code
ARTICLE IX
Signs
§ 315-190 Purpose.
A.
The purpose of this section is to create the legal framework to regulate, administer and enforce signs. These regulations recognize the need to protect the safety and welfare of the public, and the need for well-maintained and attractive sign displays within the community, and are accomplished by:
(1)
Ensuring constitutionally protected speech.
(2)
Reducing distractions and obstructions from signs that would adversely affect traffic safety and alleviating hazards caused by signs projecting over or encroaching upon the public right-of-way.
(3)
Discouraging excessive visual competition in signage and ensuring that signs aid orientation and adequately identify uses and activities to the public.
(4)
Preserving or enhancing the natural beauty and unique physical characteristics of the Village of Denmark by requiring new and replacement signage which is harmonious with the buildings to which signs relate, surrounding neighborhood aesthetics, and other signs in the area and is complementary to the Village's suburban architectural character and unobtrusive commercial developments.
(5)
Promoting a healthy and properly designed business environment.
(6)
Protecting property values within the Village.
(7)
Ensuring safe construction of signage.
B.
Signs not expressly permitted as being allowed by right or by permit under this chapter, by specific requirements in another portion of the Village of Denmark Code of Ordinances, or other applicable law, are prohibited.
C.
The regulations included in this section are not intended to and do not apply to signs erected, maintained, or otherwise posted, owned, leased by, on behalf of, or as specifically directed or order by, federal, state, local governments and government agencies, in the furtherance of authorized government operations or activities within the public right-of-way.
D.
This section shall establish reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions and shall not establish or enforce content-based restrictions. Sign regulations shall be based solely on size, brightness, zoning district, spacing, location, and the like.
§ 315-191 Substitution clause.
Signs containing noncommercial speech are permitted anywhere that signs containing commercial speech are permitted, subject to the same regulations applicable to such signs.
§ 315-192 Authorization.
These regulations authorize the use of signs visible from public rights-of-way, provided the signs are:
A.
Compliant with this chapter.
B.
Designed, constructed, installed, and maintained in such a manner that they do not endanger public safety or traffic safety.
C.
Legible, readable, and visible in the circumstances in which they are used.
§ 315-193 Interpretation.
The requirements and restrictions of this section are in addition to, and not in lieu of, other provisions of this chapter. This section shall be strictly construed to limit signs in the Village. Upon submission of sufficient documentation demonstrating the need to modify the size, design or number of signs necessary to identify a development, the Plan Commission may modify the sign restrictions within this section to overcome constraints only when such constraints are due to poor site visibility, excessive setbacks, or other physical or topographic constraints.
§ 315-194 Sign permit.
A.
Permit required. It shall be unlawful for any person to install, attach, erect, affix, place, attach, paint, draw, construct, or in any other way bring into being or establish; or enlarge, or structurally modify a sign or cause the same to be done in the Village of Denmark, without first obtaining a sign permit for each sign from the Zoning Administrator as required by this article. Permits shall not be required for the following:
(1)
The repainting, cleaning, and other normal maintenance and repair of the sign and sign structure.
(2)
Those specific signs identified in this chapter as not requiring a sign permit.
B.
Application. Application for a sign permit and application fee shall be filed with the Village Clerk upon forms provided by the Village and shall contain the following information:
(1)
The name, address, and telephone number of the sign owner, the property owner, where the sign is or will be located, and the sign contractor of the proposed sign.
(2)
Clear and legible color drawings with description of the proposed sign, the construction, size, dimensions, and kind of materials to be used is such structure.
(3)
Site plan drawing showing:
(a)
Location and ground floor area of all buildings and structures on the property.
(b)
Location of all existing signs.
(c)
Location of proposed sign(s).
(d)
Distance from proposed signs to all structures (as applicable), street right-of-way, and all property lines (as applicable).
(4)
Scale drawing of sign(s) indicating dimensions, materials to be used, color scheme, type of illumination, if any, and the method of construction or attachment.
(5)
Means by which proposed sign(s) shall be affixed to the ground or attached to structures (as applicable).
(6)
Such other information as the Zoning Administrator may require to show full compliance with this and all other applicable laws of the Village.
(7)
Signature of the applicant.
(8)
All required fees.
C.
Permit issuance or denial.
(1)
The Zoning Administrator shall issue a sign permit upon determination that:
(a)
The permit application is properly made.
(b)
All required fees have been paid.
(c)
The sign complies fully with the requirements of this section and any other applicable laws and regulations.
(2)
The Zoning Administrator shall notify the Building Inspector upon approval of a sign permit.
(3)
If the sign permit is denied, the Zoning Administrator shall provide written notice of the denial to the applicant, together with a brief statement of the reasons for the denial.
§ 315-195 Prohibited signs.
A.
General. Signs shall not obstruct or interfere with the effectiveness of railroad or traffic signs, signals, or devices. Signs shall not be erected, relocated, or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape; and no sign shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape. Signs shall not be place so as to obstruct or interfere with traffic visibility, or be lighted in such a way as to cause glare or impair driver visibility upon public ways. Signs may be illuminated but nonflashing.
B.
The following signs are specifically prohibited in all districts:
(1)
Signs that disfigure, obstruct, or conceal architectural details, windows and window openings, doors, or other significant structural accoutrements.
(2)
Signs that imitate, interfere with, obstruct the view of, or can be confused with any authorized traffic control sign, signal, or other device.
(3)
Wall signs on single- and two-family dwellings located in nonresidential zoning districts.
(4)
Electronic signs in the RD-1, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, and R-5 Districts.
(5)
Changeable copy signs in the RD-1, R-1, R-2, and R-3 Districts, except for manual change of copy signs accessory to places of worship, fraternal clubs/lodges, and similar such institutional uses when located on a RD-1, R-1, R-2, or R-3 District lot as a conditional use.
(6)
Animated signs.
(7)
Flashing signs, including signs with scintillating, blinking, or traveling lights of more than 15 watts per lamp.
(8)
Off-premises signs.
(9)
Signs which are painted on, or attached or affixed to, rocks, trees or other living vegetation.
(10)
Signs with any light flashing more than 10 times per minute.
(11)
Roof signs.
(12)
Flags displayed in a manner noncompliant with § 315-197E of this chapter.
(13)
Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and/or trailers that are parked on a public right-of-way, public property, or private property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way where the apparent purpose is to advertise a product or direct people to a business or activity, unless otherwise specifically allowed in this chapter. This subsection shall not be interpreted to prohibit signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and trailers while the vehicle is parked or used incidentally to the primary use of the vehicle or trailer and are stored during periods of nonuse inconsistent with functional advertising.
(14)
Signs containing reflective elements which sparkle or twinkle in the sunlight.
(15)
Off-premises signs, unless otherwise permitted elsewhere in this section.
(16)
Signs located in rear yards.
(17)
Signs attached to, erected, or maintained on any standpipe, exterior stairway, fire escape, tower, or balcony so as to interfere with the use thereof.
(18)
Signs entirely supported by a parapet wall.
(19)
Neon tubing exposed to view and not covered with an opaque cover of Plexiglas or other similar material.
(20)
Beacons of any type.
(21)
Blanketing of existing signs.
(22)
Any other signs not specifically permitted by this chapter.
§ 315-196 Restrictions on posting signs.
No person shall cause to be placed any type of sign, notice, or other item on any traffic sign pole, utility pole, street indicator sign, or any other pole under the jurisdiction of the Village.
§ 315-197 Signs not requiring permit.
Signs not requiring a permit shall comply in all respects with the sign regulations presented in this chapter. The following signs are allowed without a permit, subject to the following regulations:
A.
Sanctioned event sign(s); provided, type, size, location, and duration of placement of sign(s) is approved by Plan Commission.
B.
In residential districts:
(1)
No more than four ground signs, subject to the following:
(a)
Face area shall not exceed three square feet.
(b)
Sign shall not be located in any public right-of-way.
(c)
Sign shall not be artificially illuminated.
(2)
One temporary sign, subject to the following:
(a)
Sign shall not exceed 12 square feet in total face area.
(b)
Sign shall not be located in any public right-of-way.
(c)
Sign shall not be artificially illuminated.
(d)
Sign shall not be erected more than 15 days before, and shall be removed no later than 14 days after, the event, activity, or purpose for which the sign is intended, excepting those signs specifically allowed under § 12.04, Wis. Stats.
(3)
One wall sign, subject to the following:
(a)
Sign shall not exceed two square feet in face area.
(b)
Sign shall not be artificially illuminated.
C.
In nonresidential districts.
(1)
No more than four ground signs, each with a face area no larger than three square feet.
(2)
Two temporary signs, subject to the following:
(a)
No sign shall exceed 32 square feet in total face area.
(b)
Signs shall not be located in any public right-of-way or vision corner.
(c)
Signs shall not be artificially illuminated.
(d)
Signs shall not be erected more than 15 days before, and shall be removed no later than five days after, the event, activity, or purpose for which the sign is intended.
(e)
In no cases shall signs be maintained for more than 60 days, other than specifically allowed under § 12.04, Wis. Stats.
(f)
Each sign shall be appropriately secured and constructed consistent with public safety.
(3)
In the B-2 District, one off-premises vehicle and/or trailer-mounted sign contingent upon compliance with the requirements of Subsection C(2) above.
(4)
Horizontal banners, subject to the following:
(a)
Size.
[1]
Banner size is limited to 5% of primary facade, up to a maximum of 60 square feet.
[2]
Lettering on banners shall be a minimum of six inches in height.
(b)
Construction. Banners shall be made out of a flexible material and shall have no horizontal stiffeners.
(c)
Duration.
[1]
Banners shall be displayed only for the duration of the event for which it is associated.
[2]
Banners shall not be displayed for more than 30 days.
(d)
Number.
[1]
Individual businesses are limited to 12 banner events per calendar year.
[2]
Maximum allowable number of banners is one street-facing facade.
(e)
Location.
[1]
Banner signs shall be affixed to the principal structure.
[2]
Banner signs shall not obstruct or conceal architectural details, windows and window openings, doors, or other significant structural accoutrements.
(f)
Maintenance. Property owner shall maintain appearance of banner and all parts and supports of banner. In the event banner is not properly maintained, removal shall be order by Zoning Administrator.
(5)
Feather signs, subject to the following:
(a)
Size.
[1]
Feather signs shall not exceed 12 feet in height.
[2]
Feather signs shall not exceed 30 square feet in size.
(b)
Duration.
[1]
Feather signs shall be displayed only for the duration of the event for which it is associated.
[2]
Feather signs shall not be displayed for more than 30 days.
(c)
Number. Individual businesses are limited to five feather signs, minus total number banner signs.
(d)
Location.
[1]
Feather signs shall be placed in the street yard.
[2]
Feather signs may be located at the property line; however, no portion of sign shall cross the property line.
(e)
Maintenance. Property owner shall maintain appearance of banner and all parts and supports of banner. In the event banner is not properly maintained, removal shall be order by Zoning Administrator.
(6)
One portable sign, subject to the following:
(a)
Portable signs are limited to the street yard and shall comply with all setback requirements.
(b)
Portable signs shall be in place exclusively during the hours of operation of the entity for which the sign is associated.
(c)
Portable signs shall not exceed 24 square feet in face area and four feet in height.
(7)
Door signs and window signs in the B-1, B-2. B-3, and IN Districts.
(a)
The cumulative area of which shall not exceed 30% of area of door or window to which sign is affixed.
(b)
Window/door graphics shall not become unsightly or illegible.
(c)
Chipped or peeling areas shall be removed, repaired, or replaced.
(8)
Neon signs.
(a)
Neon signs are allowed in taverns, nightclubs, gas stations, convenience stores, and similar establishments determined to be substantially the same by the Zoning Administrator.
(b)
Only one neon sign is allowed per window.
(9)
Sandwich board signs.
(a)
Sandwich board signs are allowable in the B-1, B-2, and IN Districts as an accessory to a principal structure.
(b)
Not more than one sandwich board sign shall be allowed on a lot.
(c)
Sandwich board signs shall not exceed 12 square feet in face area and four feet in height.
(d)
Sandwich boards signs may be placed in the public right-of-way but shall not be placed within a streetway or roadway and shall not disrupt or obstruct pedestrian flow on a sidewalk.
(e)
Sandwich board signs shall be placed exclusively during regular business hours of the business for which it is associated.
(10)
Outdoor menu boards.
(a)
Outdoor menu boards are allowable in the B-1, B-2, and IN Districts as an accessory to a principal structure.
(b)
Outdoor menu boards are limited to restaurants, bars, and similar businesses, enterprises, and organizations which sell or serve food, food products, or beverages.
(c)
Outdoor menu boards are limited to sandwich boards or in display windows affixed to the side of the building.
(d)
Outdoor menu boards shall not exceed 12 square feet in face area, except wall-mounted outdoor menu boards in the IN District shall not exceed 32 square feet in face area.
(e)
Not more than one outdoor menu board accessory to a principal structure shall be allowable on a B-1 or IN District lot.
(f)
Not more than one outdoor menu board accessory to a principal structure shall be allowable per order window or wash bay in the B-2 District.
(g)
Outdoor menu board lettering may not be legible from any distance off the lot for which it is approved.
D.
In all districts.
(1)
Integral signs, not to exceed two per structure.
(2)
Official and governmental signs, such as traffic control, parking, information, and notices.
(3)
Signs intended to protect public safety or warn of potential hazards associated with a specific activity. Such signs shall be maintained only so long as the activity for which they are intended is ongoing.
(4)
Official notices posted by public officers or employers in the performance of their duties.
(5)
Signs required as specifically authorized for a public purpose by any law, statute, or ordinance.
(6)
Signs affixed to a truck, bus, trailer or other vehicles, while operating in the normal course of business, which is not primarily the display of signs.
(7)
A sign carried by a person.
(8)
House numbers and name plates not exceeding two square feet in area for each residential, commercial or industrial building.
(9)
Signs internal to a site not intended to be viewed from outside the site.
(10)
Interior signs.
(11)
Festoons.
(12)
Athletic field signage including signs, banners, and scoreboards designed for view from spectator areas and displayed on interior walls, fences, or other structures located inside an enclosed athletic field at a school, park, or other public or private athletic complex; except that approval of the Plan Commission shall be required to display a sign, banner, or scoreboard under this paragraph at a Village park. Signs may be illuminated so long as such illumination does not pose a safety risk within or outside the parcels in question. Scoreboards that qualify under this subsection may include flashing elements, if adequate screening is provided to screen the views from abutting streets, as approved by the Zoning Administrator. For purposes of this subsection, a "school" shall mean public schools as defined in § 115.01(1), Wis. Stats., private schools as defined in § 115.001(3r), Wis. Stats., and technical colleges authorized under Ch. 38, , Wis. Stats. Athletic field signage may be illuminated and may be temporary.
(13)
Memorials, grave markers, statuary or other remembrances of persons or events, names of buildings and date of erection, when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other nonreflective, unobtrusive, and incombustible materials.
(14)
Sanctioned event signs. Signs associated with a temporary, Village-sanctioned event.
E.
Flags and flagpoles.
(1)
RD-1, R-1, R-2, and R-3 District lots.
(a)
Flags. No more than four flags may be displayed on any RD-1, R-1, R-2, or R-3 District lot, provided:
[1]
In no case shall any flag exceed the size of the flag of the United States of America displayed on the same lot.
[2]
At no time may a flag be secured by any means on more than one side of the flag.
(b)
Ground-mounted flagpoles.
[1]
No ground-mounted flagpole shall exceed 25 feet in height.
[2]
No more than two flags shall be displayed on a flagpole.
[3]
Furcated flagpoles are prohibited.
[4]
Flag size:
Height of Flagpole (feet) | Minimum Flag Size (feet) | Maximum Flag Size (feet) |
|---|---|---|
20 | 2 by 3 | 3 by 5 |
21 to 25 | 4 by 6 | 5 by 8 |
[5]
Setback for ground-mounted flag poles. Flagpoles shall be set back sufficient distance from property lines so as not to create a safety hazard on adjacent property and shall be set back sufficient distance to enable the flag to fly fully open without flying over the property of others.
(c)
Structure-mounted flag poles.
[1]
No more than two structure-mounted flagpoles are permissible on a RD-1, R-1, R-2, or R-3 District lot.
[2]
Structure-mounted flagpoles shall not exceed six feet in length.
[3]
No more than one flag shall be displayed on any structure-mounted flagpole.
[4]
When the flag of the United States of America is displayed on a structure-mounted flagpole, it shall be located to the left of any other flag displayed on a structure-mounted flagpole.
(2)
All other districts.
(a)
Flags. No more than four flags may be displayed on a lot.
[1]
In no case shall any flag exceed the size of the flag of the United States of America displayed on the same lot.
[2]
At no time may a flag be secured by any means on more than one side of the flag.
(b)
Ground-mounted flagpoles. Ground-mounted flagpoles and flags attached to ground-mounted flagpoles shall comply with the following:
[1]
No more than three flagpoles shall be allowed per lot, one of which shall be no less than 10 feet taller than the other pole(s).
[2]
The flag of the United States of America, if displayed, shall be displayed on the tallest pole.
[3]
No more than to flags may be displayed on any single flagpole.
[4]
Furcated flagpoles are prohibited.
[5]
Flag size:
Height of Flagpole (feet) | Minimum Flag Size (feet) | Maximum Flag Size (feet) |
|---|---|---|
20 | 2 by 3 | 3 by 5 |
21 to 30 | 4 by 6 | 5 by 8 |
31 to 40 | 5 by 8 | 8 by 12 |
41 to 50 | 6 by 10 | 10 by 15 |
51 to 60 | 8 by 12 | 12 by 18 |
61 to 70 | 10 by 15 | 15 by 25 |
71 to 80 | 10 by 19 | 20 by 30 |
[6]
Maximum flagpole height by district:
R-4 (feet) | R-5 (feet) | IN (feet) | B-1 (feet) | B-2 (feet) | B-3 (feet) | I-1 (feet) | I-2 (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 50 | 80 | 50 | 80 |
[7]
Setback for ground-mounted flag poles. Flagpoles shall be set back sufficient distance from property lines so as not to create a safety hazard on adjacent property and shall be set back sufficient distance to enable the flag to fly fully open without flying over the property of others.
(c)
Structure-mounted flag poles. Structure-mounted flagpoles are permissible in the B-1 District and shall comply with the following:
[1]
No more than two structure-mounted flagpoles are permissible on B-1 a lot.
[2]
Structure-mounted flagpoles shall not exceed six feet in length.
[3]
No more than one flag shall be displayed on any structure-mounted flagpole.
[4]
When the flag of the United States of America is displayed on a structure-mounted flagpole, it shall be located to the left of any other flag displayed on a structure-mounted flagpole.
§ 315-198 Signs requiring a sign permit.
A.
RD-1, R-1, R-2, and R-3 Districts.
(1)
Type of signs allowed. In addition to signs not requiring a permit, the following signs are allowed in the RD-1, R-1, R-2, and R-3 Districts:
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Face Area | Maximum Height | Minimum Street Yard Setback | Minimum Side Yard Setback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ground | 1 | 16 square feet | 6 feet | 5 feet from right-of-way, 10 feet from vision corner | 8 feet from lot line |
(2)
Signs Accessory to places of worship, fraternal clubs/lodges, and similar such institutional uses when located on a RD-1, R-1, R-2, or R-3 District lot as a conditional use:
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Face Area | Maximum Height | Minimum Street Yard Setback | Minimum Side Yard Setback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ground | 1 per accessible street frontage | 36 square feet | 6 feet | 5 feet from right-of-way, 10 feet from vision corner | 8 feet from lot line |
Wall1 | 22 | Primary facade: 100 square feet | 8 feet3, 4 | N/A | N/A |
Other facade: 50 square feet | |||||
Cumulative total: 150 square feet |
NOTES: | |
1 | Shall not project more than 13 inches from wall to which it is attached. |
2 | Maximum number of wall signs per unit on a multi-tenant structure is one. |
3 | Top of sign shall not exceed 20 feet from base of building to which it is attached or affixed. |
4 | Shall not project higher than the parapet line of the wall to which sign is to be attached or affixed. |
(a)
Changeable copy sign. In addition to the above, one changeable copy sign accessory to a specific conditional use, which may be ground- or wall-mounted, is permitted compliant with the following:
[1]
The face area of said sign shall not exceed 24 square feet in area.
[2]
No more than 33% of the total sign area may consist of changeable copy.
(3)
Subdivision signs. Residential subdivision signs shall be permitted compliant with the following:
(a)
Subdivision signs shall be ground signs.
(b)
There shall not be more than one subdivision identification sign for each point of vehicular access to the subdivision.
(c)
Subdivision signs shall not exceed 36 square feet in area per sign.
(d)
Subdivision signs shall not be located closer than 10 feet to any property line, right-of-way, or driveway, and shall be subject to the vision setback regulations established in this chapter.
(e)
Subdivision signs shall not exceed six feet in height.
(f)
No electronic signs shall be permitted.
B.
R-4 and R-5 Districts.
(1)
Type of signs allowed. In addition to signs not requiring a permit, the following signs are allowed in the R-4 and R-5 Districts:
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Face Area | Maximum Height | Minimum Street Yard Setback | Minimum Side Yard Setback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ground | 1 | 36 square feet | 6 feet | 5 feet from right-of-way, 10 feet from vision corner | 8 feet from lot line |
(2)
Place name signs. Place name signs shall be permitted compliant with the following:
(a)
Place name signs shall be ground signs.
(b)
There shall not be more than one place name sign for each point of vehicular access to the subdivision.
(c)
Subdivision signs shall not exceed 36 square feet in area per sign.
(d)
Subdivision signs shall not be located closer than 10 feet to any property line, right-of-way, or driveway, and shall be subject to the vision setback regulations established in this chapter.
(e)
Subdivision signs shall not exceed six feet in height.
(f)
No electronic signs shall be permitted.
C.
B-1 District.
(1)
Type of signs allowed. In addition to signs not requiring a permit, the following signs are allowed in the B-1 District:
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Face Area | Maximum Height | Minimum Street Yard Setback | Minimum Side Yard Setback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Awning1 | 1 per street facing, first floor door/window | 50 square feet | 2 | 3 | N/A |
Canopy/marquee4 | 1 per street-facing first floor entrance/exit | 50 feet | 1 foot from top of canopy or marquee2, 5 | Lesser of 2 feet from curb or 7 feet from wall to which it is attached | N/A |
Ground6 | 1 per accessible street frontage | 100 square feet | 6 feet | None | 3 feet |
Hanging | 1 | 4 square feet | 2 | N/A | N/A |
Ingress/egress | 2 | 8 square feet | 5 feet | None7 | 3 feet |
Projecting | 1 | 9 square feet | None | 2 feet from curb3 | N/A8 |
Wall9 | 210 | Primary facade: 150 square feet | 8 feet11, 12 | N/A | N/A |
Other facade: 50 square feet | |||||
Cumulative total: 150 square feet |
NOTES: | |
1 | Shall be securely attached to and supported by the building and shall be without posts or columns. |
2 | Shall maintain a minimum clearance between bottom of canopy/sign and the finished surface of public sidewalk or other nonvehicular public thoroughfare of eight feet. |
3 | Shall extend no more than four feet from structure to which it is attached. |
4 | Shall project a minimum of four feet from structure to which it is attached. |
5 | Shall be constructed and erected so that lowest portion thereof is at least 12 feet above the level of a public or private drive. |
6 | Shall contain address number of the structure with which it is associated. |
7 | Shall be located no farther than 10 feet from direct access to Village street. |
8 | Not allowed at the intersection of streets except at right angles to a building front. |
9 | Shall not project more than 13 inches from the wall to which it is attached or affixed. |
10 | Maximum number of wall signs per unit on a multi-tenant structure is one. |
11 | Top of sign shall not exceed 20 feet from base of building to which it is attached or affixed. |
12 | Shall not project higher than the parapet line of the wall to which sign is to be attached or affixed. |
D.
B-2 and IN Districts.
(1)
Type of signs allowed. In addition to signs not requiring a permit, the following signs are allowed in the B-2 District:
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Face Area | Maximum Height | Minimum Street Yard Setback | Minimum Side Yard Setback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Awning1 | 1 per street-facing, first floor door/window | 50 square feet | 2 | 3 | N/A |
Canopy/marquee 4 | 1 per street-facing first floor entrance/exit | 50 feet | 1 foot from top of canopy or marquee2, 5 | Lesser of 2 feet from curb or 7 feet from wall to which it is attached | N/A |
Ground6 | 1 per accessible street frontage | 100 square feet | 8 feet | 10 feet from right-of-way | 3 feet |
Ingress/egress | 2 | 8 square feet | 5 feet | None7 | 3 feet |
Pole | 1 | 50 square feet | 35 feet | None8 | 10 feet8 |
Projecting | 1 | 9 square feet | None | None3 | N/A9 |
Wall10 | 211 | Primary facade: 150 square feet | 8 feet12, 13, 14 | N/A | N/A |
Other facade: 50 square feet | |||||
Cumulative total: 150 square feet |
NOTES: | |
1 | Shall be securely attached to and supported by the building and shall be without posts or columns. |
2 | Shall maintain a minimum clearance between bottom of canopy/sign and the finished surface of public sidewalk or other nonvehicular public thoroughfare of eight feet. |
3 | Shall extend no more than four feet from structure to which it is attached. |
4 | Shall project a minimum of four feet from structure to which it is attached. |
5 | Shall be constructed and erected so that lowest portion thereof is at least 12 feet above the level of a public or private drive. |
6 | Shall contain address number of the structure with which it is associated. |
7 | Shall be located no farther than 10 feet from direct access to Village street. |
8 | No portion of sign shall cross the property line or extend over a sidewalk or other public right-of-way. |
9 | Not allowed at the intersection of streets except at right angles to a building front. |
10 | Shall not project more than 13 inches from the wall to which it is attached or affixed. |
11 | Maximum number of wall signs per unit on a multi-tenant structure is one. |
12 | Total height of a wall sign, from the top of the sign to the bottom of the sign, shall not exceed eight feet. |
13 | Top of sign shall not exceed 20 feet from base of building to which it is attached or affixed. |
14 | Shall not project higher than the parapet line of the wall to which sign is to be attached or affixed. |
E.
B-3 District.
(1)
Type of signs allowed. In addition to signs not requiring a permit, the following signs are allowed in the B-3 District:
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Face Area | Maximum Height | Minimum Street Yard Setback | Minimum Side and Rear Yard Setback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Canopy/marquee1 | 1 per street-facing first floor entrance/exit | 50 feet | 1 foot from top of canopy or marquee2, 3 | Lesser of 2 feet from curb or 12 feet from wall to which it is attached | N/A |
Ground 4 | 1 per accessible street frontage | 120 square feet | 10 feet | 10 feet from right-of-way | 3 feet |
Ingress/egress | 2 | 8 square feet | 5 feet | None5 | 3 feet |
Pole | 1 | 100 square feet | 6, 7, 8 | 9 | 10 feet10 |
Projecting | 1 | 9 square feet | None | None3 | N/A9 |
Wall11 | 212 | Primary facade: 150 square feet | 8 feet13, 14, 15 | N/A | N/A |
Other facade: 50 square feet | |||||
Cumulative total: 150 square feet |
NOTES: | |
1 | Shall project a minimum of four feet from structure to which it is attached. |
2 | Shall maintain a minimum clearance between bottom of canopy/sign and the finished surface of public sidewalk or other nonvehicular public thoroughfare of eight feet. |
3 | Shall be constructed and erected so that lowest portion thereof is at least 12 feet above the level of a public or private drive. |
4 | Shall contain address number of the structure with which it is associated. |
5 | Shall be located no farther than 10 feet from direct access to Village street. |
6 | 85 feet for lots located within 1,000 feet of I-43. |
7 | 50 feet for all other lots located west of CTH R. |
8 | The lowest level of the sign atop a pole sign shall not be less than 15 feet above the natural grade for sidewalks, parking lots, driveways, and other areas used by motor vehicles. |
9 | Pole signs are specifically prohibited in the street yard. |
10 | No portion of sign shall cross the property line or extend over a sidewalk or other public right-of-way. |
11 | Shall not project more than 13 inches from the wall to which it is attached or affixed. |
12 | Maximum number of wall signs per unit on a multi-tenant structure is one. |
13 | Total height of a wall sign, from the top of the sign to the bottom of the sign, shall not exceed eight feet. |
14 | Top of sign shall not exceed 20 feet from base of building to which it is attached or affixed. |
15 | Shall not project higher than the parapet line of the wall to which sign is to be attached or affixed. |
F.
I-1 and I-2 Districts.
(1)
Type of signs allowed. In addition to signs not requiring a permit, the following signs are allowed in the I-1 and I-2 Districts:
Sign Type | Maximum Number | Maximum Face Area (square feet) | Maximum Height (feet) | Minimum Street Yard Setback (feet) | Minimum Side and Rear Yard Setback (feet) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ground1 | 1 per accessible street frontage | 120 | 10 | 10from right-of-way | 3 |
Ingress/egress | 2 | 8 | 5 | None2 | 3 |
Wall3 | 24 | Primary facade: 200 | 85, 6, 7 | N/A | N/A |
Other facade: 50 | |||||
Cumulative total: 200 |
NOTES: | |
1 | Shall contain address number of the structure with which it is associated. |
2 | Shall be located no farther than 10 feet from direct access to Village street. |
3 | Shall not project more than 13 inches from the wall to which it is attached or affixed. |
4 | Maximum number of wall signs per unit on a multi-tenant structure is one. |
5 | Total height of a wall sign, from the top of the sign to the bottom of the sign, shall not exceed eight feet. |
6 | Top of sign shall not exceed 20 feet from base of building to which it is attached or affixed. |
7 | Shall not project higher than the parapet line of the wall to which sign is to be attached or affixed. |
G.
PDD District. The type, number, total sign area, location, and height of signage in any PDD shall be established according to an approved signage plan reviewed in conjunction with the approval of the PDD and shall generally conform to the requirements of the zoning district most similar to the PDD or its various elements, areas, and neighborhoods. Amendments to the sign plan reviewed and approved by the Plan Commission consistent with other amendments to the PDD.
H.
Gas canopy signs. Gas canopy signs shall be permitted for all gas stations, service stations, and convenience stores with fuel pumps, provided:
(1)
One gas canopy sign may be placed on each side of the canopy which directly abuts and faces a Village street the right-of-way.
(2)
The maximum face area for gas canopy signs shall be limited to 25 square feet in total for all sides of the canopy.
(3)
Gas canopy signs shall not project more than 13 inches from canopy to which it is affixed.
(4)
Decorative striping shall not be placed on the canopy's vertical fascia.
(5)
Gas canopy signs may be nonilluminated, internally illuminated, or backlit.
I.
Changeable copy and electronic signs.
(1)
Unless otherwise specified by this chapter, any sign herein allowed may use manual or automatic changeable copy or may be an electronic sign.
J.
Electronic signs. Where allowed, electronic signs shall comply with the following:
(1)
Transition time on electronic signs shall not exceed two seconds. No black space is allowed in between message changes.
(2)
Each electronic sign shall have a lighting sensing device that will adjust the brightness of the display as the natural ambient light conditions change.
(3)
No electronic signs shall be permitted within 200 feet of any railroad crossing.
(4)
Electronic signs shall not project more than 18 inches from a building space or the face of the sign.
(5)
Electronic signs shall contain a default design that will freeze the design in one position if a malfunction occurs.
K.
Historic wall signs and ghost signs in B-1 District.
(1)
Purpose. Historic signs are a distinctive feature of Denmark and provide a visual link to the community's past.
(2)
Preservation.
(a)
Historic wall signs and ghost signs add to the character of historic buildings and the downtown and shall be treated as significant features of the property.
(b)
Historic wall signs and ghost signs are a characteristic of Village's past and shall be preserved when deemed practicable by the Plan Commission upon recommendation of the Zoning Administrator.
(3)
Maintenance. When preserved, historic wall signs and ghost signs shall be maintained but shall not be repainted.
(4)
Maximum area wall signs. The Village desires to preserve existing, historic wall signs by allowing building owners to install new wall signs without existing, historic wall signs factoring into maximum dimensional standards associated with all other wall signs.
L.
Multi-tenant signs.
(1)
Districts allowed. Multi-tenant signs are permitted in B-1, B-2, B-3, IN, I-1, and I-2 Districts, and for places of worship, fraternal clubs/lodges, and similar such institutional uses when located in the RD-1, R-1, R-2, or R-3 District as a conditional use.
(2)
General standards.
(a)
Multi-tenant signs may be utilized whenever a development consists of several, separate units having appurtenant shared facilities, including but not limited to driveways, parking, common walls or structures, and pedestrian walkways.
(b)
Entities represented on a multi-tenant sign shall not also erect or display additional ground signs or freestanding signs.
(3)
Number.
(a)
The maximum number of multi-tenant signs allowable in a single development is one.
(b)
The maximum number of tenant panels on a multi-tenant sign shall be one associated with, and limited to, each business, entity, or tenant located in the development.
(c)
A tenant penal shall consist of no more than two sign faces.
(4)
Face area.
(a)
Multi-tenant sign.
[1]
The anchor panel of a multi-tenant sign shall comply with the maximum face area for a ground sign in the applicable zoning district.
[2]
The cumulative face area for all panels displayed on a multi-tenant sign shall comply with the maximum face area for a ground sign in the applicable zoning district.
(5)
Height. The height of a multi-tenant sign shall comply with the maximum height for a ground sign in the applicable zoning district.
(6)
Setbacks. Multi-tenant signs shall comply with the setback requirements for a ground sign in the applicable zoning district.
(7)
Design standards. Multi-tenant signs shall comply with design standards for ground signs.
§ 315-199 Sign standards.
A.
Height standards. The height of ground signs, pole signs, and other signs placed into or upon the ground shall be measured from the preconstruction/installation grade at the base of the sign.
B.
Construction standards.
(1)
Signs shall comply in all respects with applicable sections of Village of Denmark Building Code.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 126, Building Construction.
(2)
All ground signs shall be self-supporting structures and permanently attached to sufficient foundations.
(3)
All signs, except those attached flat against the wall of a building and those signs of which no portion exceeds a height of three feet and are no greater than nine square feet in area, shall be constructed to withstand wind loads as follows, with correct engineering adjustments for the height of the sign above grade:
(a)
For solid signs, 30 pounds per square foot of the sign and structure.
(b)
For skeleton signs, 30 pounds per square foot on the total face cover of the letters and other sign surfaces or 10 pounds per square foot of the gross area of the sign as determined by the overall dimensions of the sign, whichever is greater.
(4)
Supports and braces shall be an integral part of the sign design. Angle irons, chain or wires used for supports or braces shall be hidden from public view to the extent technically feasible.
(5)
All signs in which electrical wiring or connections are used shall be subject to all applicable provisions of state code. No person may erect any sign with exposed electrical cords or wires. Electrical service to ground signs shall be concealed wherever possible.
C.
Maintenance standards.
(1)
Every sign shall be maintained in a safe, presentable, and structurally sound condition at all times. This includes restoring, repainting, or replacing a worn or damaged sign to its original condition. This also includes maintaining the premises on which the sign is erected in a clean and sanitary condition, free and clear of noxious substances.
(2)
All signs shall be maintained in a legible condition (except when a weathered or natural surface is intended). Painted signs shall be repainted at such times as the deterioration of the paint results in illegibility or disfiguration.
(3)
The Zoning Administrator and Building Inspector shall have the right to order the repair or removal of any sign which is defective, damaged, or substantially deteriorated.
D.
Measurement standards.
(1)
Signable area. The signable area of a building is designated as the area of the facade of the building up to the roofline, which is free of windows and doors or major architectural detail on which signs may be displayed.
(2)
Measuring sign face. In calculating the area of a sign to determine whether it meets the requirement of this chapter, the Zoning Administrator shall include the sign copy and any border or frame surrounding that copy. Supporting posts or foundations shall be excluded from the area calculation. The area of irregularly shaped signs or signs containing two or more detached elements shall be determined by the area of the smallest regular polygon that will encompass all elements of the sign.
(3)
Measuring sign height. The sign height shall be the vertical distance measured from the grade at the base of the sign structure to the highest point of such sign or sign structure. In the case where a sign is to be located in a raised planting bed or berm, the grade shall be determined by the average of the grades measured at the base of the planting bed or the toes of the slope at the front and back of the bed or berm.
E.
Illumination standards.
(1)
All signs.
(a)
Except as otherwise prohibited in this chapter, signs may be internally or externally illuminated.
(b)
The use of unshielded lighting, including exposed incandescent light bulbs hung or strung on poles, wires, or any other type of support intended to illuminate a sign is prohibited.
(c)
All sign lighting shall be designed, located, shielded, and hooded so as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent roadways, surrounding properties, or into the sky.
(d)
In no case shall the lighting intensity of any sign, whether resulting from internal or external illumination, exceed 60 footcandles when measured with a standard light meter held perpendicular to the sign face at a distance of 10 inches.
(2)
Awning, canopy, and marquee signs.
(a)
Downward directional lighting shall be used on the underside of the awning, canopy, or marquee.
(b)
All lighting required to externally illuminate the top surface must be constructed in a manner that architecturally complements the building and must be directed entirely at the awning, canopy, or marquee.
F.
Design standards for signs. The base of ground signs and pole signs, and the support structure of projecting signs and wall signs, shall be constructed with materials that are complementary in color and architectural theme to the principal structure.
G.
Landscape standards for signs.
(1)
All ground signs and pole signs for which a permit is required shall be set in a landscaped base of appropriate size to provide shrubs and base plantings that will enhance and complement the sign.
(2)
Where any sign is proposed to be externally illuminated using ground-mounted fixtures, landscape plantings shall be installed in such a manner as will entirely shield the light source from the surrounding view.
(3)
Landscape species shall be consistent with the requirements of the landscaping section of this chapter and shall be of a type as will ensure effective year-long screening.
§ 315-200 Nonconforming signs.
A.
Nonconforming signs. Nonconforming signs may be continued although the use, size, number, or location does not conform to the provisions of this chapter.
B.
Nonconforming status. A sign loses its legal, nonconforming status if one of the following occurs:
(1)
The sign is structurally altered in any way other than normal maintenance and repair that makes the sign less compliant with the requirements of this chapter than it was before the alteration.
(2)
The sign is relocated.
(3)
The sign is abandoned.
(4)
The permitted or conditional use associated with the sign changes.
C.
Reconstruction. A nonconforming sign can be reconstructed to its former state if it is destroyed by wind, vandalism, fire, ice, or flood.
§ 315-201 Insurance requirement.
Every sign installer shall file with the Village Clerk a certificate of insurance to indemnify the Village against any form of liability to a minimum of $300,000 (per occurrence and aggregate with regard to bodily injury and property damage). Such insurance shall not be canceled or reduced without the insured first giving 30 days' notice in writing to the Village of such cancellation or reduction.
§ 315-202 Removal and disposition of signs.
A.
Abandoned signs. All abandoned signs shall be removed within six months by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which an on-premises sign is located when the entity for which the sign is associated is no longer present or in operation. If the owner or lessee fails to remove the sign(s), the Zoning Administrator shall give the owner or lessee 30 days' written notice to remove said sign(s). Upon failure to comply with this notice, the Village may cause removal to be executed, the expenses of which will be assessed to the tax roll of the property on which the abandoned sign is located.
B.
Deteriorated dilapidated signs. The Zoning Administrator shall cause to be removed any deteriorated or dilapidated signs under the provisions of § 66.0413(1), Wis. Stats.
C.
Unlawful signs. The Zoning Administrator, following consultation with the Building Inspector, may declare any sign unlawful if it endangers public safety by reasons of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, or abandonment. Any such declaration shall be in writing and shall state the reasons of the Zoning Administrator as to why any sign owned, kept, displayed, or maintained by any person within the Village is in violation of this chapter.