Garden City City Zoning Code
SIGN REGULATIONS
§ 154.600 FINDINGS.
The City Council finds that signs and other visual outdoor advertising are necessary to the commerce, health, safety, and general welfare of the residents of the city. Further, it finds that failure to regulate their size, location, and construction may lead to poor identification of individual businesses, deterioration of the business and residential areas of the city, intensification of the conflicts between different types of land use, reduction in the effectiveness of traffic-control devices, and safety hazards to pedestrians and motorists.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)
§ 154.601 PURPOSE.
The purpose of this subchapter is to regulate signs and outdoor advertising in a manner that will minimize their harmful effect while permitting latitude for creative and effective advertising and identification. It is intended by this subchapter to give recognition to the legitimate needs of business,industry and other activities, through appropriate guidelines, in attaining their identification and informational objectives. It is a basic tenet of this subchapter that unrestricted signage does not benefit the community, or individual businesses, or property owners. To achieve this purpose, this subchapter has the following objectives:
(A) Regulate the construction, alteration, repair and maintenance of all signs with respect to structural and fire safety, location, type of sign, dimensions, height, and method of illumination;
(B) Seek removal of illegal signs, and encourage the replacement or removal of nonconforming signs that are incompatible with the purpose of this subchapter;
(C) Preserve the appearance of the city by preventing the placement of oversized and non-accessory signs that are out of scale with surrounding buildings and structures;
(D) Keep the number of signs and sign messages at a reasonable level necessary to identify a business and its products; and
(E) Avoid visual clutter that confuses or misleads traffic, obstructs vision and is potentially harmful to property values, business opportunities and community appearance.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)
§ 154.602 DEFINITIONS.
For the purposes of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ABANDONED SIGN. A sign accessory to or associated with a use that has been discontinued or terminated for more than 30 days.
BILLBOARD OR NON-ACCESSORY SIGN. A sign that does not pertain to the primary use of the premises, or that advertises one or more businesses, products, services, facilities or events not sold, distributed or furnished on the premises on which the sign is located.
BUILDING FRONTAGE. Where sign area is based on the lineal feet of building frontage, the measurement shall be taken from the façade of the building facing the main roadway and shall be measured from exterior side-wall to exterior side wall of the building or in the case of a tenant space from interior side wall to interior side wall.
BUILDING-MOUNTED SIGN. Display sign that is painted on, adjacent to or attached to a building wall, door, and window or related architectural feature. Such signs would include, but are not limited to the following:
(1) BUILDING DIRECTORY. A wall sign where individual occupants of a building may display information directing visitors to their portion of the building.
(2) CANOPY SIGN. A sign that is painted on or attached to an awning or canopy.
(3) NAMEPLATE. A wall sign denoting the name of the occupant in a residential dwelling unit or denoting only the name and profession of the occupants in a commercial, public or other institutional building.
(4) PROJECTING SIGN or MARQUEE SIGN. A display sign attached to or hung from a structure projecting from and supported by the building and extending beyond the building wall, building line or street right-of-way line.
(5) WALL SIGN. A display sign that is painted on or attached to a building wall, door, window or related architectural feature and projecting not more than 18 inches from the wall.
(6) WINDOW SIGN. A sign affixed to a window or so as to be observable from the opposite side of the window to which such sign is located or affixed.
CLEARANCE. The vertical distance between the surface grade beneath the sign and the lowest point of the sign, including framework and embellishments.
DAMAGED SIGN. A sign or supporting structure that is torn, defaced, dented, smashed, broken, vandalized or destroyed.
DECORATIVE DISPLAY. A decorative, temporary display designed for the entertainment or cultural enrichment of the public and having no direct or indirect sales or advertising content.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN. A sign that uses arrows or words like “enter” and “exit” to regulate on-site traffic and parking.
ENTRANCE SIGN/ENTRY FEATURE WITH SIGNAGE. A sign located at the entrance to the development from a thoroughfare or collector road and bearing the name, management organization or contact information for a residential subdivision, apartment community, condominium development, mobile home park, or office, business or industrial park.
FRONT FACE AREA. The area of the front wall, including doors and windows, of the principal building facing a public street where the address or primary public entrance is located. Buildings on corner parcels may have up to two front faces if each face satisfies the above criteria. If the building is devoted to two or more uses or businesses, the FRONT FACE AREA for each use or business shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator based upon the proportionate share of the building occupied by each use or business.
GARAGE SALE SIGN. A temporary sign for the sale of used tangible personal property and household personal belongings of the householder, conducted on an individual lot.
GROUND SIGN/MONUMENT SIGN. A freestanding sign extending up from a base or supported by one or more columns, uprights or braces in the ground surface.
ILLEGAL SIGN. A sign for which no valid permit was issued by the city at the time such sign was erected, or a sign that is not in compliance with the current zoning chapter and does not meet the definition of a nonconforming sign.
NONCOMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL. Any material that will not ignite at or below a temperature of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and will not continue to burn or glow at that temperature.
NONCONFORMING SIGN. A sign for which the city issued a permit at the time such sign was erected, but which is not in compliance with current ordinance provisions for signs. Such signs must be located outside of any existing right-of-way, away from any public or private easement and wholly upon the parcel to which it is associated. Such signs must have all necessary structural and decorative parts, including, but not limited to supports, sign box or enclosure and electrical equipment. The sign face or sign copy area must be intact and illuminated signs must be capable of immediate illumination.
OPINION SIGN. A sign that addresses issues or otherwise expresses an opinion or point of view, but does not advertise any products, goods, services, or businesses.
PARCEL. For the purpose of this subchapter, a parcel shall consist of the main building or structure; included in a main building shall be a group of stores owned by one or more owners or individual tenant spaces connected by common walls. The main building or structure may occupy more than one city lot.
POLE SIGN. A type of freestanding sign that is elevated above the ground on poles or braces.
PORTABLE SIGN. A sign and sign structure that is not attached to a building and is capable of being moved within the zoning lot on which it is located or from one zoning lot to another (i.e. including but not limited to an A-frame, T-frame, or trailer sign).
ROOF SIGN. A display sign that is erected, constructed and maintained on or above the roof of the building, or that extends above the roofline.
SIGN. Any surface, fabric, device, display or visual medium, including the component parts, which bears writing, representations, emblems, logos, pictorial forms, sculptured matter or any figures of similar character, together with any frame, tower, or other materials, color or internally-illuminated area forming an integral part of the display to convey information or attract attention.
SIGN AREA. The gross surface area within a single continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme limits of all sign copy or surface of any internally-illuminated sign, awning or canopy.
SIGN COPY. Writing, representations, emblems, logos, pictorial forms, sculptured matter or any figures of similar character, together with any frame, tower, or other materials, color or internally-illuminated area forming an integral part of a display to convey information or attract attention.
(1) ANIMATED COPY. Sign copy that flashes, moves, revolves, cycles or is otherwise altered or changed by mechanical or electrical means.
(2) CHANGEABLE COPY. Moveable letters or other forms of sign copy, not including animated copy that can be altered by natural, mechanical or electrical means without replacing the sign copy area.
SIGN HEIGHT. The vertical distance measured from the average grade at the sign location to the highest point of the sign.
TEMPORARY/EVENT SIGN. Display signs, banners, balloons, festoons or other advertising devices constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, plastic or other light temporary material, with or without a structural frame, or any other sign intended for a limited period of display, but not including decorative displays for holidays or public demonstration.
(1) CONSTRUCTION SIGN. A temporary sign identifying architects, contractors, subcontractors and material suppliers for a development, or advertising available parcels or buildings in a new development.
(2) FESTOONS. A string of ribbons, tinsel, small flags or pinwheels.
(3) POLITICAL SIGN. A temporary sign that announces the candidacy of persons running for public office, addresses issues to be voted upon at an election, or otherwise expresses an opinion or point of view, but does not advertise any products, goods, services or businesses.
(4) REAL ESTATE SIGN. Signs advertising the rental, sale or lease of the property upon which they are located.
UNSAFE SIGN. A sign that is not properly secured; is in danger of falling or has otherwise been found to be in a condition that is hazardous to the public health, safety or welfare by the Building Inspector.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10; Am. Ord. 17-001, passed 7-10-17; Am. Ord. 19-003, passed 2-25-19)
§ 154.603 GENERAL STANDARDS.
If there is a conflict between the requirements for signage in the CBD, Central Business District in § 154.356(D)(4) and this subchapter, the CBD district standards will apply. The following general standards shall apply to signs in all zoning districts.
(A) Standards of measurement. Dimensional standards and measurements for signs shall be subject to the following:
(1) Sign height. The distance from the average level of the ground or pavement directly below the sign to the highest point of the sign structure, including any supportive or decorative elements.
(2) Sign setback. Setbacks shall be measured from the closest road right-of-way or front lot line to the nearest edge of the sign.
(3) Sign area. The surface area of a sign shall include the total area within any regular geometric figure (circle, triangle, rectangle, and the like) enclosing the extreme limits of letters, symbols or other material forming an integral part of the display or used to differentiate the sign from the background against which it is placed.
(a) Where two sign faces with identical sign areas are placed back to back no more than 18 inches apart, then the sign area shall equal the area of one face.
(b) Where two sign faces with different sign areas are placed back to back no more than 18 inches apart, then the sign area shall equal the area of the larger face.
(c) Where two sign faces are placed more than 18 inches apart at any point, then the sign area shall equal the total area of all sign faces.
(B) Construction and maintenance.
(1) All signs shall be constructed or installed in compliance with the State Construction Code, and other applicable building, fire, and electrical codes enforced by the city; shall be maintained in good repair and working order; and shall present a neat and orderly appearance and a professional appearance. Non-galvanized or corrosion-prone materials shall be painted as necessary to prevent corrosion.
(2) All sign faces shall be smooth, and no nails, tacks or wires shall be permitted to protrude from any sign. This shall not exclude the use of block letters, decorative elements or other devices that may extend over the top or in front of the sign structure.
(C) Placement requirements. The following placement standards shall apply to all signs:
(1) No sign may extend above any parapet or be placed upon any roof surface. For purposes of this subchapter, roof surfaces constructed at an angle of 75 degrees or more from horizontal (such as mansard roofs) shall be regarded as wall space.
(2) No sign attached to a building, other than a permitted awning sign, marquee sign, or projecting sign, may project more than 18 inches from the building wall.
(3) Signs shall not be located within nor extend over any road right-of-way, or corner clearance area, except where specifically authorized by this subchapter.
(4) All signs shall be located at least ten feet from any utility pole, overhead wire, transformer or streetlight, except where specifically authorized by this subchapter.
(5) All signs shall comply with the setback requirements for the district in which they are located, except as otherwise permitted in this subchapter.
(D) Hazards and obstructions. Signs shall not be designed or maintained in a manner that would confuse or mislead motorists or pedestrians, create traffic or pedestrian hazards. No sign of any kind shall be attached to a standpipe, fire escape or other means of ingress or egress.
(E) Use. Signs shall not impair the use of adjacent properties. All signs shall be accessory to the principal use of the parcel where the sign is located, unless specifically permitted by this subchapter as a non-accessory sign. Any sign permitted by this subchapter may contain a non-commercial message. A changeable copy area shall be allowed as part of a permitted sign, provided that the changeable copy area shall not exceed 50% of the total sign area.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10; Am. Ord. 17-001, passed 7-10-17)
§ 154.604 PROHIBITED SIGNS.
The following types of signs are prohibited in all districts:
(A) Any sign not expressly permitted by this subchapter;
(B) Signs that resemble and could be confused with an official highway, traffic or government sign, signal or traffic control device; or that obscure a sign, signal or traffic control device displayed by public authority to provide traffic instruction, direction or public information;
(C) Signs painted on or attached to trees, utility poles, fences or streetlights;
(D) Signs placed upon or across any public right-of-way or upon any city property, except as otherwise provided for in this subchapter;
(E) Signs that incorporate string lights; flashing, moving or intermittent lights of changing degrees or intensity; exposed incandescent bulbs; animation; or unshielded luminous tube lighting unless explicitly approved by this subchapter;
(F) Exterior string lights accessory to a non-residential use unless explicitly permitted in § 154.030, other than holiday decoration or when used as an embellishment to landscape plant materials;
(G) Signs that have any visible moving parts, mechanical movement, rotation or other apparent visible movement achieved by electrical or mechanical means or by action of normal wind currents; and signs that discharge any audible sound, odor or visible matter;
(H) Roof signs and inflatable signs;
(I) Building-mounted signs/wall signs that obstruct window or door openings, inhibit ingress or egress, or interfere with building ventilation;
(J) Signs displayed without required permits or outside of permitted size, location or time period limitations;
(K) Abandoned or unlawful signs; and
(L) Displays of obscene material.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10; Am. Ord. 17-001, passed 7-10-17)
§ 154.605 SIGNS PERMITTED WITHOUT A PERMIT.
The following non-illuminated signs shall be permitted accessory to a permitted use in any zoning district, without obtaining a sign permit prior to installation. Such signs shall be subject to all other applicable conditions and standards set forth in this subchapter.
(A) Historic designation. Historic signs designating site recognized by the State Historical Commission or local governmental body or agency.
(B) Address numbers and nameplate. All principal buildings shall display their assigned road number in a manner legible from the road right-of-way. In addition, one nameplate shall be permitted per principal building to provide for the further identification of the building, use or occupants. The nameplate shall not exceed two square feet in area, and shall be attached flat against the building wall.
(C) Regulatory. Traffic safety and control signs that conform to the requirements of the Michigan Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
(D) Building markers. Memorial signs, tablets or markers, and historical plaques cut into any masonry surface or constructed of bronze or other incombustible material and shall not exceed one square foot in area.
(E) Directional. Signs used to direct vehicular or pedestrian traffic to parking areas, loading area, subject to the following:
(1) Directional signs shall not contain logos or other forms of advertising; and
(2) Directional signs shall not exceed two square feet in area or four feet in height.
(F) Real estate. One temporary sign advertising the rent, sale, or lease of a parcel or building not exceeding eight square feet of sign face and six feet in height. Such sign shall not be placed in the public right-or-way and shall be removed within 30 calendar days from the date of rental, lease, or sale.
(G) Community event. Decorations or displays celebrating traditional holidays or events, school or community events that are erected on the property of the sponsor of the display or event. Signs shall not exceed 32 square feet and eight feet in height. A permit shall be required if the sign is displayed over 14 calendar days in a calendar year.
(H) Political. Non-illuminated temporary signs promoting political parties, candidates or proposals. Temporary political signs shall not exceed eight feet in height. All political signs must follow the city’s policy on local campaign guidelines.
(I) Governmental. Signs of duly constituted governmental body; signs required to be maintained by law or governmental order, rule or regulation; signs identifying public access, municipal facilities and similar official markers; and incidental signs displayed for the direction, safety or convenience of the public.
(J) Changeable copy. Changes to sign copy within an approved changeable copy area.
(K) Window signs. Temporary or permanent window signs shall not exceed 25% of the total surface area of the facade windows.
(L) Sign repair. Painting, servicing, cleaning or minor repairs to an existing sign, provided that the sign is restored to its original design and all work is in compliance with applicable structural and electrical codes, and the requirements for such signs specified in this subchapter.
(M) Pennants. Pennants installed with the permission of City Council, or their designated agent, on or over public roads for aesthetic or promotional purposes. Pennants used to advertise or attract attention to a use or event shall be considered a temporary sign for the purposes of the subchapter.
(N) “No signs”. Posting of not more than one “no trespassing,” “no dumping,” “no skateboarding,” and other similar signs per side of a parcel when posted on private property. Each sign shall not exceed three square feet in area.
(O) Incidental signs. Incidental signs on vehicles, trailers, trucks, and similar vehicles used for transport in the normal course of business, provided that the primary use of shall not be for the purpose of advertising on the premises where the vehicle is parked.
(P) Garage sale signs. A temporary sign that must be removed within 24 hours after the end of the sale.
(1) Sign not to exceed four square feet.
(2) One sign permitted on the premises of the sale; two additional signs (not to exceed four square feet per sign) within ½ mile of the sale location and may be placed in the city rights-of way.
(3) Signs must be freestanding and not attached to any poles, trees, fences, and the like.
(Q) Time/temperature/message signs. Time/temperature/message signs shall be permitted in commercial districts and for institutional uses, i.e. churches, schools, government office, and the like, subject to the following:
(1) Frequency of message change. The message change shall not be more frequent than once every 30 seconds;
(2) Size. The area of types of signs shall be included within the maximum sign area permitted on the site;
(3) Number. One such sign shall be permitted per street frontage; and
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)
§ 154.606 SIGNS PERMITTED WITH A PERMIT.
The following signs shall be permitted accessory to a permitted use in any non-residential zoning district, unless permitted by this subchapter, subject to the following:
(A) Entry features with signage. Architectural features with signage may be erected at each entrance to a residential subdivision, apartment community, condominium development, mobile home park or office, business or industrial park or similar development from a major street, subject to the following.
(1) Number of signs. Maximum of one sign on each side of the entrance from a major street.
(2) Sign area. Maximum sign face area shall not exceed 36 square feet.
(3) Height. Maximum height of a ground sign shall not exceed six feet from grade.
(4) Setbacks. Site entry features with signage shall be located outside of any street setback area or corner clearance area, and shall further comply with the following minimum setback requirements:
(a) Ten feet from any street setback or right-of-way;
(b) Ten feet from the curb line of any internal access driveway; and
(c) Five feet from any sidewalk or paved path.
(5) Planning Commission review. The location and design of each site entry feature with signage shall be subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission.
(B) Building directory. Where a single building on a parcel is occupied by more than one business, dwelling or other use above the street level façade (such as a multiple-story office or commercial building), a building directory sign may be erected on the street level façade for these uses, subject to the following:
(1) The building directory shall be separate from any permitted signs accessory to the uses occupying the street level façade; and
(2) The maximum sign area of the building directory shall not exceed 5% of the allowable wall sign area of the building (5% of 1.5 feet of sign area per linear foot of building frontage).
BUILDING DIRECTORY | |
NAME | SUITE |
BUILDING DIRECTORY | |
NAME | SUITE |
Terry’s Bakery | 101 |
Cannon Insurance | 102 |
Dr. Wiedermeyer | 201 |
Dr. Ishmael, DDS | 202 |
Mr. Jim Smith | 301 |
Ms. Janet Doe | 302 |
(C) Flags. Flags bearing the official design of a nation, state, municipality, educational institution, award or non-profit organization, not to exceed two flag poles per parcel. Flags used to advertise or attract attention to a use or event shall be considered a temporary sign for the purposes of the subchapter. Flag poles are allowed in all zoning districts, subject to the following.
(1) Location. Flagpoles shall be located in manner that prevents displayed flags from projecting into the street right-of-way or over adjacent properties at full extension. Flagpoles shall not be located on the roof of a building.
(2) Height. A flagpole shall be considered a structure, as defined by this subchapter, and shall conform to the height restrictions and setback requirements for structures in the district where it is located.
(D) Gasoline sale signs. Gasoline signs in addition to other allowable permitted signage shall be subject to the following.
(1) Area. Price signs shall not exceed 12 square feet in area and shall be counted as part of the total allowable signage. Price signs may be in the form of a message sign.
(2) Canopy. Corporate identification signs of less than five square feet each may be affixed to three sides of a canopy providing coverage to pump islands.
(E) Canopy and awnings. Signs on canopies and awnings in non-residential districts shall be permitted, subject to the following.
(1) Coverage. The total area of the lettering and logo shall not exceed 25% of the total area of the canopy or awning that is visible from the street.
(2) Size requirements compliance. The area of signs on awnings and canopies shall be counted as part of the building's total allowable wall signage.
(3) Color. Signs attached to a canopy or awning shall be one color in contrast to the background color.
(4) Location. Canopies shall not project more than eight feet beyond a building façade or other architectural feature nor be closer that six feet to the curb line. A minimum under clearance of eight feet shall be maintained.
(F) Construction signs. Temporary construction signs shall be subject to the following.
(1) Number of signs. Maximum of one sign per street frontage or entrance from a major street.
(2) Sign area, height and location. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 16 square-feet, and the maximum sign height shall not exceed six feet. Placement shall be wholly within the property boundaries to which the sign pertains.
(3) Display period. For non-residential construction projects, the sign shall not be erected prior to issuance of a permit for the proposed construction project, and shall be removed upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy. For residential construction projects, the sign shall not be erected prior to approval of the site plan or final preliminary plat, and shall be removed upon completion of the final phase of the project.
(G) Temporary signs. Temporary signs, other than those listed elsewhere in this subchapter, shall be subject to the following.
(1) Number of permitted signs. Individual operations and organizations shall be allowed a maximum of one temporary sign per postal address. All such addresses and locations shall be noted on the permit.
(2) Maximum sign area. The total sign area of any permitted temporary sign shall not exceed 24 square feet.
(3) Maximum sign height. The maximum height of such signs shall be six feet.
(4) Sign removal. A removal agreement or security bond requested by the Building Inspector or Zoning Administrator may be required to guarantee removal of such signs. Signs must be removed within seven days after completion of the activity for which they were erected.
(5) Display period.
(a) Such signs shall be temporarily displayed for the specific time period defined on the approved permit. One permit may be issued for multiple display periods over one calendar year. The total display period for such signs on a single parcel shall not exceed 60 days per calendar year.
(b) City Council or its designated agent may waive the requirements of this section of temporary signs based on the following:
1. The temporary signage is in support of a non-profit organization or entity;
2. The temporary signage advertises or supports the City of Garden City, its agencies, or activities; and/or
3. Sign area and height are in compliance with § 154.604(D)(2) and (D)(3).
(6) Event signs. Grand opening, going out-of business, and one event temporary banner or sign shall be permitted, subject to the following.
(a) Location. The temporary banner/sign may be located on the structure or outside of the required setback area; provided that the sign does not obstruct the vision of drivers or detract from the visibility of any traffic sign or traffic control device.
(b) Size. The sign area shall not exceed 12 square feet in sign face or four feet in height.
(c) Number of signs. Maximum of one sign per road frontage of the parcel.
(d) Display period. The sign or banner shall not be erected prior to approval of a sign permit, and shall be removed within 30 calendar days of issuance of the permit. Only two such permits may be applied for in any calendar year by the business and/or property owner.
(7) Portable signs. Portable signs may be placed at the public entrances to businesses. Only in the CBD District may portable signs be located on the public sidewalk adjacent to the main entrance. All portable signs must be in accordance with the following:
(a) No sign shall be placed within ten feet of a fire hydrant, or in any location where it would imperil public safety, as determined by the Building Inspector, or the city designee, or interfere with the function of the Fire Department;
(b) The portable sign in the CBD District shall be located within four feet of the business and its location shall comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation;
(c) Each sign is permitted outside only during daylight hours that the business is open to the public;
(d) Design requirements:
1. Portable signs shall not have more than two sign faces;
2. Height shall not exceed 48 inches and a width of 24 inches; and
3. Portable signs shall be professional in appearance; and
(e) Display period. The sign or banner shall not be erected prior to approval of a sign permit, and shall be removed within 30 calendar days of issuance of the permit. Only two such permits may be applied for in any calendar year by the business and/or property owner.
(H) Building-mounted signs. The following shall apply to all building mounted signs accessory to a business/industrial use in any non-residential zoning district.
(1) Sign area. A wall sign shall be allowed at one and one-half square feet per one foot of lineal building frontage. Side wall signs shall be allowed at one-half the permitted front face wall signage if the building wall is adjacent to a parking lot; or in the case of a corner lot, each side of a building that faces a street shall be allowed a wall sign that meets the front or main road allowable sign area. The total allowable sign area of all building-mounted signs shall not exceed 150 square feet.
Type of Sign | ||||
Wall | Awning | Projecting | Window | |
Permit required | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Maximum number of sign faces per sign | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
Minimum height above ground (feet) | 8 feet | 10 feet | ||
May be illuminated | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Sign face area | 11/2 square feet per linear feet of building or tenant space length | 25% of canopy area | 15 square feet per sign face | 25% of window area |
(2) Painted wall signs. Signs applied with paint or similar substance on an exterior surface of the structure shall be considered a building-mounted sign subject to the standards of this subchapter and included in the total allowable sign area. Prior to painting a sign on a wall, the wall surface shall be freshly painted with a continuous base color.
(3) Projecting signs. signs shall be secured to the building by metal anchors, bolts, supports, rods or braces, and shall be limited to 15 square feet of sign area per sign face and shall not extend more than six feet from the wall to which it is attached.
(4) Location. Building-mounted signs shall be located entirely within the street level façade(s) of a building.
(5) Second public entrance signs. Where a side street entrance or a back entrance from a parking lot is open to the public, additional sign area over the entrance is allowed. This extra area is limited to 25% of the sign area on the building front or main street entrance. This sign is included as part of the total building mounted sign area allowed.
(I) Ground sign/monument signs. The following shall apply to all ground signs accessory to a business/industrial use in any non-residential zoning district.
(1) Maximum number of sign faces per sign. Ground signs shall be limited to a maximum of two sign faces placed back to back not more than three feet apart.
(2) Maximum number of signs per parcel. A maximum of one ground sign or one pole sign shall be permitted per parcel.
(3) Maximum sign height. The maximum allowable sign height for a ground sign shall be six feet.
(4) Maximum sign area. The allowable sign area for ground or monument signs shall not exceed 48 square feet per sign face.
(5) Setbacks. Ground signs shall be located outside of any street setback area or corner clearance area and must be setback ten feet from any internal access driveway.
(J) Pole signs. The following shall apply for all pole signs accessory to a business/industrial use in any non-residential zoning district.
(1) Number of pole signs. One pole sign or one ground sign is allowed per parcel.
(2) Maximum sign height. A pole sign shall not exceed 20 feet in height.
(3) Maximum sign face area. A pole sign shall not exceed 48 square feet per sign face.
(4) Location. A pole sign shall not overhang the public road right-of-way or a public sidewalk.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10; Am. Ord. 19-011, passed 9-23-19)
§ 154.607 BILLBOARDS.
(A) Findings. The city has made the following determinations related to billboard signs:
(1) Billboard signs are not appropriate in areas zoned for residential uses (R-1, R-2, R-3, and PD), because the intense commercial nature of the advertising activity would be harmful to residential property values and incompatible with the quality of life in residential areas;
(2) Billboard signs are not appropriate in the city’s commercial districts (C-1, C-2, C-3, CBD, and VP) and industrial districts (M-1), because such signs would be out-of-scale with the structures and commercial/industrial character of the districts, incompatible with abutting residential uses, and harmful to the promotion of commerce in the district;
(3) Billboard signs are not appropriate in Public Recreation District (PRD) that are intended to provide for passive and active recreational needs of the residents and not designed for billboard signs that could create visual clutter, compete for the visual attention of motorists, and increase hazards for motorists and pedestrians; and
(4) The placement of new billboard signs in the city is contrary to the purpose of this subchapter.
(B) Billboards prohibited. In accordance with the above findings, new billboard signs are hereby prohibited within the city.
(C) Existing billboards. Billboard signs lawfully existing in the city on the date of adoption of this subchapter shall be permitted to continue, subject to the provisions of § 154.609, Nonconforming Signs. The Building Inspector or Zoning Administrator shall be responsible for maintaining an inventory of the location and condition of all existing billboard signs in the city.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10; Am. Ord. 22-001, passed 1-24-22)
§ 154.608 PERMITS.
No person shall erect, alter or relocate a sign without first obtaining appropriate permits from the Building Inspector. The following information shall be provided with any permit application:
(A) Name, address and telephone numbers for the applicant, property owner, sign owner and sign contractor or person, firm, corporation or association erecting the sign;
(B) Street address, parcel identification number or location of the property on which the sign is to be located;
(C) Type of sign, as defined in this subchapter;
(D) Plot plan. A plot plan shall include a parcel survey, easements, dimensions, locations of all structures, and location all proposed and existing signs on the parcel. Elevation drawings of all buildings on the site shall be provided showing the location of all existing and proposed building-mounted signs;
(E) Construction drawings. Plans, specifications, materials, designs, dimensions, structural supports, electrical components, methods of construction and type of illumination for each sign;
(F) License and insurance. Every person who engages in the business of erecting, altering or dismantling signs in the city shall first submit proof of appropriate licenses and a liability insurance policy that indemnifies the city, and its prior, present and future officials, representatives and employees from all damage suits or actions of every nature brought or claimed against the erector for injuries or damages to persons or property sustained by any person or persons through any act of omission or negligence of said erector, his servants, agents or employees. The policy shall contain a clause whereby it cannot be canceled or changed until after written notice has been filed with the City Clerk at least 30 days prior to the date of cancellation;
(G) Removal agreement or bond. The Building Inspector or Zoning Administrator may require a signed removal agreement, bond or other acceptable surety to guarantee the future removal of a sign;
(H) Copy of stress sheets and calculations showing the structure is designed in accordance with applicable dead load and wind pressure standards. The Building Inspector may require approval of the structural design by a registered architect or engineer; and
(I) Written and notarized consent of the property or sign owner, or their agent or manager, to perform the proposed work.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)
§ 154.609 NONCONFORMING SIGNS.
Nonconforming signs shall be permitted to continue as such until removed or altered, provided that such signs are maintained in accordance with the following.
(A) General standards. Nonconforming signs of shall be maintained in accordance with the requirements for all signs specified in § 154.603 (General Standards).
(B) Expansion or relocation prohibited. Nonconforming signs shall not be expanded or relocated.
(C) Servicing. Painting, servicing, cleaning or minor repairs to a nonconforming sign shall be permitted, provided that the sign is restored to its original design and all work is in compliance with applicable structural and electrical codes and the requirements for all signs specified in § 154.603 (General Standards).
(D) Alterations. Alterations to a nonconforming sign, including changes to the sign frame, sign copy area, panels or structural elements shall be subject to the following conditions:
(1) The sign shall be brought into compliance with the requirements for all signs specified in §154.603 (General Standards);
(2) The sign shall be brought into compliance with all applicable sign height and sign area standards for the type of sign, as specified in this subchapter;
(3) Nonconformities caused by inadequate ground sign setback at a ground sign’s current location may be permitted to continue so that the existing support structure and wiring may be re-used, provided that permitted alterations will not increase this nonconformity, and provided that the ground sign is located entirely outside of all street rights-of-way and corner clearance areas; and
(4) Approval of appropriate permits by the Building Inspector.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)
§ 154.610 VARIANCES.
The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) shall have the authority to grant a variance from the strict application of these regulations provided that such relief may be granted without substantially impairing the intent of this subchapter. Application and consideration of sign variances shall be in accordance with the following procedures and standards.
(A) Application and review procedures. Any party who has been denied a permit for a proposed sign may file an application for a variance to this subchapter within 21 calendar days of the decision. Applications shall be considered by the ZBA per the procedures in §154.450, Variances and Appeals.
(B) Variance standards for signs. The ZBA shall consider the following standards while reviewing any application for an variance from provisions of this subchapter.
(1) Obstructions. Construction of a conforming sign would obstruct the vision of motorists or otherwise endanger public health or safety.
(2) Visibility. A conforming sign would be blocked from the sight of passing motorists due to existing buildings, trees, or other obstructions.
(3) Site features. Construction of a conforming sign would require significant tree removal or extensive topographic changes.
(4) Scale. A sign that exceeds the allowable height or area standards of this subchapter would be more appropriated in scale to the building or site frontage.
(5) Aesthetics. The variance shall not adversely impact the character or appearance of the building or parcel or the neighborhood.
(6) Minimal. The variance shall be the minimum necessary to allow reasonable use, visibility or readability of the sign.
(7) Intent. The variance shall not significantly impair the intent and purpose of this subchapter.
(C) Findings and conditions. In a motion granting or denying a sign variance, the ZBA shall state the specific grounds for the decision, which shall be supported by specific findings of fact. The ZBA may attach conditions to a sign variance approval in accordance with the intent and purpose of this subchapter.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)
§ 154.611 SIGN REMOVAL BY CITY ACTION.
(A) Abandoned and illegal signs. The Building Inspector/Code Enforcement Officer shall make a determination as to whether the sign is an abandoned and/or illegal sign, as defined in this subchapter. Written notification of the determination and any order for removal shall be provided to said owner, operator or person having beneficial use of the property upon which the sign is located. Abandoned and/or illegal signs shall be removed within 30 days of the determination. When there is a question or dispute over the building officer/code enforcement officer's determination, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall have the authority to hear such a challenge and, make such determinations and to require the removal of abandoned and/or illegal signs in the city, subject to the following procedure.
(1) Public hearing. Such action may be taken only after a public hearing has been held in accordance with M.C.L. § 125.3103 of PA 110 of 2008, as amended, at which time the owner, operator or person having beneficial use of the property upon which the sign is located shall be given an opportunity to present evidence as to whether the sign is abandoned and/or illegal, and whether the sign should be removed.
(2) Removal. If the Zoning Board of Appeals orders the abandoned and/or illegal signs to be removed, the signs shall be removed within 30 days of the determination and order for removal by the Zoning Board of Appeals. All sign copy and component parts shall be completely removed, and the area where the sign was located shall be restored as nearly as possible to its original condition. Failure to remove the sign shall constitute grounds for the city to seek Circuit Court approval to remove the sign at the expense of the owner of the property upon which the sign is located. The city may then place a lien on the property, adding necessary removal expenses to the tax bill for the property.
(B) Damaged signs. Signs determined to be in a damaged condition by the Building Inspector shall be repaired, replaced or removed to the satisfaction of the Building Inspector by the owner, operator or person having beneficial use of the property upon which the sign is located. If the owner does not take such action within ten days, such signs may be repaired or removed by the city at the expense of the owner of the property upon which the sign is located. The city may then place a lien on the property, adding necessary removal expenses to the tax bill for the property.
(C) Nonconforming signs. The elimination of nonconforming signs in the city is hereby declared to be for a public purpose and for a public use. The City Council shall have the authority to institute and prosecute proceedings for the condemnation of nonconforming signs determined to be in violation of the requirements for such signs specified in § 154.609 (Nonconforming Signs), under the power of eminent domain and in accordance with the General Law City Act, Public Act 3 of 1895, as amended. For the purpose of removal, the City Council may, at its discretion, acquire and remove nonconforming signs by purchase, condemnation or otherwise with the cost paid from general funds.
(D) Temporary signs. Temporary signs erected or displayed within a street right-of-way or corner clearance area, or without a valid permit, or after the expiration of a permit, may be removed by the city without notice. Signs removed shall be held by the city for a five day reclamation period, after which the sign shall be deemed abandoned and shall be discarded.
(E) Unsafe signs. Signs determined to be unsafe by the Building Inspector shall be immediately removed or repaired to the satisfaction of the Building Inspector by the owner, operator or person having beneficial use of the property upon which the sign is located. If the owner does not take such action within 24 hours, such signs may be removed by the city, at the expense of the owner of the property upon which the sign is located. The city may then place a lien on the property, adding necessary removal expenses to the tax bill for the property.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10; Am. Ord. 19-003, passed 2-25-19)
§ 154.612 TABLE OF ALLOWABLE SIGNAGE.
Type of Sign* | Zoning Districts | Area (sq. ft.) | Height (ft.) | Permit Required |
Address number | All | 2 | No | |
Animated | Not allowed | |||
Billboards | Not allowed | |||
Building directory § 154.606(B) | CBD, commercial | 5% of sign area | Yes | |
Building markers | All | 1 | No | |
Canopy, awning § 154.606(E) | CBD, commercial/industrial | 8 | Yes | |
Changeable copy | CBD, commercial/industrial | Part of sign area | No | |
Community event | All | 32 | 8 | Yes, if event is over 14 days |
Construction § 154.606(F) | All | 16 | 6 | Yes |
Directional | CBD, commercial/industrial | 2 | 4 | No |
Entry sign § 154.606(A) | All | 36 | 6 | Yes |
Type of Sign* | Zoning Districts | Area (sq. ft.) | Height (ft.) | Permit Required |
Event signs | CBD, commercial/industrial | 12 | 4 | Yes |
Flags | All | (See § 154.605(M)) | No | |
Garage sale | Residential | 4 | No | |
Gasoline sales | Commercial/industrial | (See § 154.606(D)) | Yes | |
Governmental | All | No | ||
Historic | All | No | ||
Holiday displays | All | No | ||
Incidental | All | No | ||
Message boards | CBD, commercial/industrial | Included in area | Yes | |
Monument | All | 48 | 6 | Yes |
Nameplate | All | 2 | No | |
“No” signs | All | 3 | No | |
Pole | Commercial/industrial | 48 | 20 | Yes |
Political | All | 8 | No | |
Portable § 154.606(G)(7) | CBD, commercial/industrial | 4 | Yes | |
Projecting | CBD, commercial/industrial | 24 | Yes | |
Real estate | All | 8 | 6 | No |
Roof | Not allowed | |||
Rear/side public entry | CBD, commercial/industrial | 25% of front signage | Yes | |
String lights | Not allowed | |||
Temporary sign | All | 24 | 6 | Yes |
Time/temperature § 154.605(Q) | CBD, commercial/industrial | No | ||
Traffic control | All | No | ||
Wall § 154.606(H) | CBD, commercial/industrial | 1½ sq. ft./ building frontage | Yes | |
Wall - side | CBD, commercial/industrial | ½ permitted front sign | Yes | |
Window | CBD, commercial/industrial | 25% | No | |
* Commercial and industrial zoning districts are allowed one freestanding sign, i.e. ground/monument sign or pole sign in additional to allowable wall signage.
(Ord. 10-013, passed 1-11-10)
§ 154.613 CHANGEABLE MESSAGE STANDARDS.
(A) Where permitted and maximum allowed. Signs with changeable copy are permitted on lawful ground/monument signs, pole signs, and wall signs, provided not more than one changeable copy sign is permitted per address.
(B) Maximum changeable message area. The changeable copy area of a sign shall not exceed 50% of that sign's area.
(C) Frequency of message changes. The message change cycle of a changeable message sign shall not exceed one change per eight seconds.
(D) Message change process. The message change cycle of a changeable message sign must be completed instantaneously in one second or less. Any animation or movement, which includes flashing, scrolling, fading, dissolving, osculating, spinning, twirling, video display, or other type of motion, is prohibited.
(Ord. 17-001, passed 7-10-17)
§ 154.614 ILLUMINATION OF SIGNS.
Internal and external sign illumination shall be permitted in the C-1, C-2, C-3, CBD, and M-1 districts, subject to the following:
(A) External sign illumination. External illumination of signs shall be permitted, provided that the light source(s) shall be nonglare, fully shielded, directed towards the sign face, and designed to concentrate all light on the sign copy area.
(B) Internal sign illumination. Signs may be internally illuminated, provided that the light display must be equipped with a photocell and dimming mechanism that automatically adjusts the brightness in response to ambient light conditions. These signs must also be equipped with a means to immediately turn off the display or lighting if it malfunctions. The following brightness standards must be met:
(1) No sign may be brighter than is necessary for clear and adequate visibility;
(2) No sign shall be of such intensity or brilliance that is interferes with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, device, or signal, as determined by the Police Chief or his designee; and
(3) The maximum luminance level of an internally illuminated sign shall not exceed 5,000 nits, except that the luminance level shall not exceed 1,250 nits from 30 minutes before dusk until dawn, as determined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA).
(C) Awning illumination. Internal illumination of awnings shall be limited to one single-tube fixture (fluorescent, LED, or equivalent), provided that the fixture is recessed and the awning material is opaque except for any permitted sign copy area.
(D) Other limitations. Sign illumination shall be further limited as follows:
(1) Sign illumination shall be provided solely by electrical means or devices, and shall not be of a flashing, intermittent, moving or animated type; and
(2) Luminous tube lighting (neon, fluorescent or similar) shall not be directly visible from any road right-of-way or adjacent parcel. Such lighting may be used as an indirect light source, or if shielded by translucent panels or similar methods.
(E) Temporary signs. Illumination of temporary signs shall be prohibited.
(F) String lights, tube lights, and other similar lighting around windows and architectural building features. In addition to the regulations of this Subchapter, string lights, tube lights, and other similar lighting around windows and architectural building features are regulated in § 154.030.
(Ord. 17-001, passed 7-10-17; Am. Ord. 22-001, passed 1-24-22)
§ 154.999 PENALTY.
(A) Any violation of these regulations shall constitute a misdemeanor except as specified in division (B), below. Any person who is convicted shall be subject to punishment by a fine not exceeding $500 or by imprisonment not exceeding 90 days for each offense, or both, at the discretion of the court. Each day a violation occurs or continues shall constitute a separate offense.
(C) Furthermore, the owner or tenant of any building, structure, premise, or part thereof, and any architect, engineer, builder, contractor, agent, or other person who commits, participates in, assists in, or maintains any violation of these regulations, may each be found guilty of a separate offense and may be subject to the penalties provided herein. The cost of prosecution shall also be assessed against the violator.
(D) The imposition of any sentence shall not exempt the offense from meeting compliance with the requirements of these regulations.
(Ord. 92-005, passed 2-17-92; Am. Ord. 18-016, passed 3-19-18)