For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply, unless the context otherwise indicates:

AUTO AWNING: Includes any structure designed for the purpose of sheltering an automobile and which is carried by a frame supported by the ground.

AWNING: Any structure made of cloth or metal with a metal frame attached to a building and projecting over a thoroughfare, when the same is so erected as to permit its being raised to a position flat against the building when not in use.

ERECT: To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix, and includes the painting of wall signs.

FACING OR SURFACE: Any surface of a sign upon, against or through which the message is displayed or illustrated on the sign.

GROUND SIGN: Any sign supported by uprights or braces placed upon the ground and not attached to any building.

GROUND SIGNS; OFF-PREMISES ADVERTISING: Includes those illuminated and nonilluminated, including, but not limited to, billboards, relating to stores not on premises or to products not sold on the premises of the sign location.

GROUND SIGNS; ON-PREMISES ADVERTISING: This category of ground signs includes those illuminated and nonilluminated signs relating only to the use of the store and premises or to products sold on the premises of the sign location.

ILLUMINATED SIGN: Any sign which has characters, letters, figures, designs or the outline illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes as a part of the sign proper.

INCOMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL: Any material which will not ignite at or below a temperature of one thousand two hundred degrees Fahrenheit (1,200°F) and will not continue to burn or glow at that temperature.

MARQUEE: Any hood or awning of permanent construction projecting from the wall of a building above an entrance and extending over a thoroughfare.

NONILLUMINATED SIGN: Any sign which has characters, letters, figures, designs or the outline which is not illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes as a part of the sign proper. This sign may be illuminated by lights not attached to the sign.

PORTABLE SIGN: Any sign or rollaway, portable or mobile advertising display.

PROJECTING SIGN: Any sign which is attached to a building or other structure and extends beyond the line of the building to which it is attached. A "horizontal projecting sign" is a projecting sign which is greater in width than in height. A "vertical projecting sign" is a projecting sign which is greater in height than in width.

PUBLIC INFORMATION TYPE DISPLAY SIGN: Any timepiece erected upon a standard upon a sidewalk, or on the exterior of any building or structure for the convenience of the public, and placed and maintained by same person for the purpose of advertising his place of business.

ROOF SIGN: Any sign erected, constructed and maintained wholly upon or over the roof of any building, with the principal supports on the roof structure.

SIGN: Means and includes every sign, billboard, ground sign, wall sign, roof sign, illuminated sign, nonilluminated sign, projecting sign, temporary sign, marquee, awning and public information type display sign and shall include any announcement, declaration, demonstration, display, illustration or insignia used to advertise or promote the interest of any person when the same is placed out-of-doors in view of the general public.

SIGN CONTRACTOR: Any person engaged in the business of manufacturing, installing, erecting, repairing, altering, servicing or removing signs.

STRUCTURAL TRIM: The molding, battens, capping, nailing strips, latticing and platforms which are attached to a sign structure.

TEMPORARY SIGN: Includes any sign, banner, pennant, valance or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard or other light materials, with or without frames, intended to be displayed for a short period of time only.

WALL SIGN: All flat signs of solid face construction which are placed against a building or other structure and attached to the exterior front, rear or side wall of the building or other structure. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983; amd. Ord. 2025-3, 3-6-2025)

   A.   The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to the following signs:

      1.   Real estate signs not exceeding eight (8) square feet in area which advertise only the sale, rental or lease of the premises upon which such signs are located, not exceeding five feet (5') in height from ground level.

      2.   Professional nameplates not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.

      3.   Signs painted on the exterior surface of a building or structure; providing, however, if the signs have raised borders, letters, characters, decorations or light appliances, they shall be subject to the provisions of section 12-601 of this article and all applicable provisions of this chapter.

      4.   Bulletin boards not over eight (8) square feet in area for public, charitable or religious institutions when the same are located on the premises of such institutions, not to exceed five feet (5') in height from ground level.

      5.   Signs denoting the architect, engineer or contractor when placed upon work under construction, and not exceeding sixteen (16) square feet in area. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

      6.   Occupation signs denoting only the name and profession of an occupant in a commercial building, public institutional building or dwelling house, and not exceeding four (4) square feet in area. (Ord. 1995-12, 10-19-1995)

      7.   Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and dates of erection when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials.

      8.   Traffic or other municipal signs, legal notices, railroad crossing signs, danger signs and such temporary, emergency or nonadvertising signs as may be approved by the city board of trustees.

   B.   The exemptions granted by subsection A of this section shall not apply to sections 12-619 and 12-620 of this article. All signs mentioned in such subsection shall be subject to the provisions of sections 12-619 and 12-620 of this article. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   No person except a licensed sign contractor shall engage in the business of manufacturing, installing, erecting, repairing, altering, servicing or removing signs. Subject to the provisions of section 12-604 of this article, a sign contractor's license may be obtained from the city clerk, upon filing an application therefor and paying the fee prescribed in this section.

   B.   The annual fee for a sign contractor's license shall be fifty dollars ($50.00).

   C.   A sign contractor's license shall expire on June 30 following the date of issuance.

   D.   Employees of duly licensed sign contractors shall not be required to obtain a license or pay the fee prescribed in this section in order to engage in the work of manufacturing, installing, erecting, repairing, altering, servicing or removing signs in the regular course of employment.

   E.   Duly licensed electrical contractors shall not be required to obtain a license under this section where such contractors only install wiring to electrical signs in the course of their business as electrical contractors.

   F.   Owners of real estate installing, erecting, repairing, altering, servicing or removing signs on their own property shall not be required to purchase a sign contractor's license provided that all other regulations relating to such signs shall be applicable. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983; amd. Ord. 108, 9-15-1983)

No sign contractor's license shall be issued until the applicant therefor shall have deposited with the city clerk a surety bond in the sum of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), to be known as a "sign contractor's bond". Such bond shall be executed by the sign contractor and the surety thereon shall be a corporate surety company authorized to do business in the state. The bond shall be in favor of the city and conditioned that the contractor shall faithfully and properly conduct his business in compliance with all of the ordinances of the city relating to signs and sign contractors; shall pay all fines and penalties imposed for the violation of such ordinances; and shall protect and indemnify the city against all damages resulting directly or indirectly from an injury to persons or property on account of the negligence or unskilled work of the contractor. Such bond shall be renewed annually and no person shall engage in the business of a sign contractor unless a bond, as herein provided, is on file with the city clerk and in full force. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

It is the duty of every sign contractor licensed hereunder to have the firm's name attached on the side of all vehicles used in the operation of its business. The firm's name and license number shall be displayed in front and on one side of the vehicle. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

It is unlawful to erect or maintain any sign on, over or across any street, alley or public property in the city, except as specifically authorized in this chapter. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

Every sign shall have painted in a conspicuous place thereon the date of erection, the name of the person who erected the same, and the voltage of any electrical apparatus used in connection therewith. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

All signs which are constructed on street lines or within five feet (5') thereof, shall have a smooth surface and no nails, tacks or wires shall be permitted to protrude therefrom, except electrical reflectors and devices which may extend over the top and extend in front of the sign. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

Gooseneck lights shall be permitted on ground signs, roof signs and wall signs; provided the lights are placed so as to concentrate the illumination upon the area of the sign so as to prevent glare upon the street or adjacent property. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

It is unlawful for any person to maintain any sign which extends over public property which is wholly or partially illuminated by more than thirty (30) foot-candles per square foot. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

It is unlawful for any person to install any type of swinging sign. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

No sign shall be erected, relocated or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window or fire escape. No sign of any kind shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision; or at any location where, by reason of the position, shape or color, it may interfere with, obstruct the view of or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device; or which makes use of the words "STOP", "LOOK", "DRIVE-IN", "DANGER", or any other word, phrase, symbol or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.

   B.   No sign, including the message area and supports, shall be permitted to extend beyond the setback line as defined herein.

   C.   No sign shall be placed or maintained within the sight triangle, except where the bottom of the sign is not less than ten feet (10') in height above the ground line, and the supports, including ornamental work, shall not exceed one foot (1') in diameter. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

All signs and other advertising structures shall be designed and constructed to withstand a wind pressure of not less than thirty (30) pounds per square foot of area, and shall be constructed to receive dead loads as required in the building code and other ordinances of the city. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

No sign shall be erected in such a manner that would create electrical interference with radio or other electronic communications between the airport and aircraft; make it difficult for flyers to distinguish between airport lights and others; result in glare in the eyes of flyers using the airport; impair visibility in the vicinity of the airport; or otherwise endanger the landing, taking off or maneuvering of aircraft. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

It is unlawful for any person to display upon any sign any obscene, indecent or immoral matter. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, plastic materials which burn at a rate no faster than two and one-half inches (2.5") per minute when tested in accordance with test for flammability of rigid plastics over five hundredths inch (0.050") in thickness, ASTM D635-63 inches shall be deemed approved plastics and may be used as the display surface material and for the letters, decorations and facings on signs and outdoor display structures, provided, that in the fire limits the structure of the sign in which the plastic is mounted or installed is noncombustible.

   B.   Letters and decorations mounted upon an approved plastic facing or display surface may be made of approved plastics.

   C.   Plastic signs, including repaired and new, shall meet the wind load standards as set forth in: "Lexan Sheet For Signs/Technical Manual", published by General Electric, no. SP-714; "Plexiglas Sign Manual" by Rohm and Haas Company, latest copyright 1969, dated June 1970, no. PL-8712; "Plexiglas DR Sign Manual", by Rohm and Haas Company, dated April 1975, no. PL-1097b; and "Signs Of UVEX Plastic Sheet", by Eastman Kodak Company, dated May 1974, no. PS-30. All of which documents are adopted by this chapter as if fully set out herein in full in word and character. The city clerk shall keep the adopted documents in the official records of the city to be made available for public inspection. Underwriters' laboratories approval shall be accepted as proof of compliance, under the terms of the approval. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

The building official shall inspect at such times as he deems necessary, each sign regulated by this chapter for the purpose of ascertaining whether the same is secure or insecure, and whether it is in need of removal or repair. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   If the building official finds that any sign is unsafe or insecure, dilapidated and in a state of disrepair, or is a menace to the public or has been constructed or erected or is being maintained in violation of this chapter, he shall give written notice to the owner thereof or to the person to whom the permit was issued. If the permit holder or the owner fails to remove or alter the sign so as to comply with the required standards within ten (10) days after such notice, the sign or other advertising structure may be removed or altered to comply by the building official at the expense of the permit holder or the owner of the property upon which it is located. The city clerk, at the recommendation of the building official, shall refuse to issue permits under this chapter to any permit holder or owner who has refused to pay all costs as assessed. The building official may cause any sign, which is an immediate peril to persons or property to be removed summarily and without prior notice. (Ord. 2004-12, 9-16-2004)

   B.   It is unlawful for any person to maintain a sign which is dangerous to the safety, health or peace of the public, and it is the duty of the owner or lessee of such sign and the owner of the property upon which such sign may be located to immediately remove, alter or repair such sign upon receipt of written notification from the building official. It shall further be the duty of any person who shall have erected or who is maintaining any sign in violation of the provisions of this chapter or any other chapter of the city to forthwith remove the same upon receiving notice to do so by the building official.

   C.   In the event any sign is constructed or maintained in such a manner as to endanger public health and safety, in addition to all the other remedies hereinbefore provided, the council may, by resolution, declare same to be nuisance and have the same abated. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

Any sign which, for a period of more than one year, no longer advertises a bona fide business conducted, or a product sold, shall be taken down and removed by the owner, agent or person having the beneficial use of the building or structure upon which such sign is located, within ten (10) days after written notification from the building official. Upon failure to comply with such notice within the time specified, the building official is hereby authorized to cause removal of such sign and any expense incidental thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building or structure to which such sign is attached. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

The use of any sign lawfully in existence on the date of the adoption of this chapter which sign violates or does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, may be continued so long as such sign is safe and secure, provided such sign is not existing on a street right of way or extending over a street right of way. Such nonconforming signs may not be enlarged, altered or replaced except so as to conform with the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

It is unlawful for any person to erect, alter or relocate within the city any sign or other advertising structure without first obtaining a permit from the building inspection department and making payment of the required fee. All illuminated signs shall, in addition, be subject to the provisions of the electrical code, and where the electrical code does not cover the situation, then Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., standards for electric signs shall cover, and the permit fees required thereunder. No person other than a duly authorized sign contractor shall be issued such permit. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   Application for a permit under this chapter shall be made upon forms provided by the city clerk and shall contain or have attached thereto the following information:

      1.   The name, address and telephone number of the applicant.

      2.   The location of the building, structure or lot to which or upon which the sign is to be attached or erected.

      3.   The position of the sign in relation to nearby buildings or structures.

      4.   Two (2) blueprints or ink drawings of the plans and specifications and method of construction and attachment to the building or in the ground, as required by the building official.

      5.   A copy of stress sheets and calculations showing that the structure is designed for dead load and wind pressure in any direction in the amount required by this chapter and all other ordinances of the city, as required by the building official.

      6.   The name of the person erecting the sign.

      7.   Such other information as the building official shall require to show full compliance with this chapter and all other ordinances of the city. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   It is the duty of the building official, upon the filing of an application for a sign erection permit, to examine such plans and specifications and other data, and the premises upon which it is proposed to erect the sign or other advertising structure; if it appears that the proposed structure is in compliance with all requirements of this chapter and is in the proper zoning classification under the provisions of the zoning ordinance and all other rules, regulations and ordinances of the city, it shall then issue the permit.

   B.   The application for a permit for erection of a sign or other advertising structure in which electrical wiring and connections are to be used shall be submitted to the electrical inspector if required by the building inspection department. The electrical inspector shall examine the plans and specifications respecting all wiring and connections to determine if the same complies with the electrical code of the city or Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., standard for electric signs, and he shall approve the permit if the plans and specifications comply with the code, or disapprove the application if noncompliance with the code is found. This action of the electrical inspector shall be taken prior to submission of the application to the building inspection department for final approval or disapproval of the erection permit. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   If the proposed sign or advertising structure is to be located on property where such sign or advertising structure is not permitted under the zoning ordinance of the city, but otherwise meets all requirements of this chapter, the board of adjustment shall have authority after a public hearing, as hereinafter set forth, to permit the erection of such sign or advertising structure if such sign does not adversely affect abutting property owners.

      1.   Before any permit is issued for the erection of any sign or advertising structure in the instance described in this subsection A, the building inspection department shall require the applicant to furnish a certified list of the names and addresses of the owners and occupants of all property abutting the tract proposed for such sign or advertising structure. The city clerk shall set a date for hearing on the application before the board of adjustment and cause notice of the time and place of the hearing to be given by mailing to the abutting property owners. The notice shall be mailed at least twenty one (21) days before the hearing; and

      2.   At such hearing, and prior to the issuance or denial of the permit, the board of adjustment shall take into consideration the proximity of any homes or building and ascertain whether such sign or advertising structure would be injurious to the neighborhood, would interfere with the enjoyment of abutting property and would be in harmony with the general purposes of this chapter. The decision of the board of adjustment shall be in writing.

   B.   Any person aggrieved by the decision of the board of adjustment's issuance of the permit prescribed in subsection A of this section, may appeal to the district court.

   C.   The permit, if approved, will be for a period of six (6) months only and shall provide that it may be revoked at any time thereafter by the board of adjustment and the applicant shall agree to remove same within ten (10) days after the permit is revoked, pending any appeal. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983; amd. Ord. 2025-3, 3-6-2025)

   A.   The permit fee for signs requiring a permit will be as provided in the fee schedule adopted by the Harrah city council from time to time, which schedule shall be maintained by the city clerk. (Ord. 2005-26, 11-7-2005)

   B.   For the purpose of computing the square feet of area in any sign, the total opposite overall dimensions in the two (2) widest parts shall be used. This area shall be considered solid with no openings deducted.

   C.   In addition to the fee prescribed above the application permit fee prescribed by the electrical code shall be paid for illuminated signs.

   D.   It is unlawful to commence the erection of any sign or advertising structure without obtaining a permit therefor, and the amounts of any and all fees above established shall be tripled if the erection of any sign or other advertising structure is commenced prior to the issuance of a permit therefor. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

The permit required by this chapter shall be issued by the city clerk, if the application has been approved by the building official and the applicant has complied with the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

No person, other than a duly licensed sign contractor shall be issued a permit under this chapter. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

If the work authorized by a permit issued under this chapter has not been completed within six (6) months after the date of issuance, the permit shall expire and thereafter be null and void. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

Permits for temporary signs shall authorize the erection of such signs and their continued maintenance by the owner for a period not to exceed one year. Permits may be granted for additional one year periods as long as the building inspector finds the sign complies with the provisions of this code. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983; amd. Ord. 110, 1-3-1984)

   A.   The building official and city clerk are hereby authorized and empowered to revoke any permit issued under this chapter, upon failure of the holder thereof to comply with any provision of this chapter.

   B.   Any permit issued under the provisions of this chapter for the erection, installation or maintenance of a sign which projects over any public street, highway, alley, parkway, or sidewalk shall constitute a mere license and may be revoked by the building official or by the city council if it should be determined that such sign should be removed in the interest of public safety and welfare or if the improvement of the public way over which such sign projects should make such removal necessary. A written notice of such revocation shall be delivered to the owner or occupant of the premises upon which such sign is located and if such owner or occupant cannot be found, such notice shall be posted on such premises. Either the owner of the premises or the person having control over such sign, shall, within ten (10) days from the date of delivery or posting of such notice, as the case may be, remove such sign insofar as it may project over and across such public way. In case of failure to cause the removal of such sign as herein provided, the building official is authorized to cause the removal forthwith and the owner or person having control over such sign shall be liable for the expense of the removal. (1986 Code)

   A.   All ground signs for which a permit is required under this chapter shall:

      1.   Have a supporting structure or inner structure of noncombustible material; provided, however, that combustible structural trim may be used thereon.

      2.   Have a surface or facing of incombustible material; provided, however, that combustible structural trim may be used thereon.

   B.   All letters, figures, characters or representations in cutout or irregular form, maintained in conjunction with, attached to or superimposed upon, and sign shall be safely and securely built or attached to the sign structure.

   C.   It is unlawful to erect any ground sign whose total height is greater than forty feet (40') above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level, if such ground level is above the street level. If any property is adjacent or abutting an expressway the total height of any ground sign shall not be greater than fifty feet (50') above the level of the street upon which the sign faces.

   D.   No ground sign shall be placed nearer to the street than the right-of-way line formed by the property line or street easement; and no part of the ground sign, including the sign face and any part of the support structure, shall extend over said right-of- way line.

   E.   Any part of a ground sign extending over a driveway, service drive or trafficway, shall have a minimum clearance of fourteen feet (14').

   F.   All grounds signs shall conform to the provisions of section entitled "Interfering With or Obstructing Traffic".

   G.   All ground signs shall be securely built, constructed and erected upon posts and standards sunk at least three feet (3') below the natural surface of the ground; and if supported and braced by timers or metal rods in the rear thereof, they must extend from the top thereof to a point in the ground at least a distance equal to one-half (1/2) the height of such signs, measured along the ground, from the posts or standards upon which the same are erected.

   H.   All posts, anchors and bracing of wood shall be treated to protect them from moisture by creosoting or other approved method when they rest upon or enter into the ground.

   I.   All ground signs shall conform to the requirements of section entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements". (Ord. 1999-5, 3-18-1999)

   A.   It is unlawful to erect any off-premises ground sign whose total height is greater than forty feet (40') above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level, if such ground level is above the street level.

   B.   No off-premises ground sign shall be placed nearer to the street than the right-of-way line formed by the property line or street easement; and no part of the ground sign, including the sign face and any part of the support structure, shall extend over said right-of-way line.

   C.   Any part of an off-premises ground sign extending over a driveway, service drive or trafficway, shall have a minimum clearance of fourteen feet (14').

   D.   All off-premises ground signs shall conform to the provisions of section entitled "Interfering with or Obstructing Traffic".

   E.   All off-premises ground signs shall be securely built, constructed and erected upon posts and standards sunk at least three feet (3') below the natural surface of the ground; and if supported and braced by timber or metal rods in the rear thereof, they must extend from the top thereof to a point in the ground at least a distance equal to one-half (1/2) the height of such signs, measured along the ground, from the posts or standards upon which the same are erected.

   F.   All posts, anchors and bracing of wood shall be treated to protect them from moisture by creosoting or other approved methods when they rest upon or enter into the ground.

   G.   All off-premises ground signs shall conform to the requirements of section entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements".

   H.   All off-premises ground signs and the premises surrounding the same shall be maintained by the owner thereof in a clean, sanitary and inoffensive condition, and free and clear of all obnoxious substances, rubbish and weeds.

   A.   All wall signs for which a permit is required under this chapter shall have a surface or facing of incombustible material; provided, however, that combustible structural trim may be used thereon.

   B.   No wall sign shall cover wholly or partially any wall opening, nor project beyond the ends of top of the wall to which it is attached; and any one wall sign shall not exceed an area of five hundred (500) square feet.

   C.   No wall sign shall be permitted to extend more than fifteen inches (15") beyond the building line. No such sign shall be attached to a wall at a height of less than seven feet (7') above the sidewalk or ground. No such sign shall be attached to a wall at a height of less than ten feet (10') above the sidewalk or ground where vehicular traffic flow is active.

   D.   No wall sign shall be erected, relocated or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window or fire escape.

   E.   All wall signs shall be safely and securely attached to the building wall by means of metal anchors, bolts or expansion screws of not less than three-eighths inch (3/8") in diameter embedded in the wall at least five inches (5"); provided, however, that such signs may rest in, or be bolted to, strong, heavy metal brackets or saddles set not over six feet (6') apart, each of which shall be securely fixed to the wall as hereinbefore provided. In no case shall any wall sign be secured with wire, strips of wood or nails.

   F.   All wall signs shall conform to the requirements of section entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements". (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   Every roof sign, including the upright supports and braces thereof, shall be constructed entirely of incombustible materials; provided, however, that combustible structural trim may be used thereon.

   B.   No roof sign shall have a surface area exceeding five hundred (500) square feet, or seventy five percent (75%) of any building front, whichever is the lesser figure, nor have its highest point extended more than twenty feet (20') above the roof level or fire wall with a minimum of five feet (5') opening every twenty five (25) linear feet.

   C.   No roof sign shall be erected or maintained with the face thereof nearer than five feet (5') to the outside wall toward which the sign faces.

   D.   All roof signs shall have a space at least five feet (5') in height between the base of the sign and the roof level, and have at least five feet (5') clearance between the vertical supports thereof.

   E.   No roof sign shall be placed on the roof of any building or structure in such a manner as to prevent free passage from one part of the roof to any other part thereof or interfere with openings in the roof; all roof signs shall comply with section entitled "Obstructions to Doors, Windows, Standpipes, Fire Escapes".

   F.   There shall be only one roof sign erected per business property.

   G.   Every roof sign shall be thoroughly secured to the building by iron or other metal anchors, bolts, supports, rods or braces. When erected upon buildings which are not constructed entirely of fireproof material, the bearing plates of the sign shall bear directly upon masonry walls and intermediate steel columns in the building. No roof sign shall be supported or anchored to the wooden framework of a building.

   H.   All roof signs shall conform to the requirements of section entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements". (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   Every projecting sign, including the frames, braces and supports thereof, shall be designed by a structural engineer or manufacturer and shall be approved by the building inspection department as in compliance with the building code of the city and by the electrical inspector as in compliance with the electrical code of the city and where the electrical code does not cover the situation, the Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., standard for electric signs shall cover; and shall be constructed of incombustible materials.

   B.   The lights shall concentrate the illumination upon the area of the sign and prevent glare upon the street or adjacent property. Internally illuminated signs shall be permitted.

   C.   The lettering or advertising designs to be illuminated may be composed of glass or other transparent or semitransparent incombustible material. Any glass forming a part of any sign shall be safety glass or plate glass at least one-half inch (1/2") thick, and in case any single piece or pane of glass has an area exceeding three (3) square feet, it shall be wired glass. One section, not exceeding three (3) square feet in area, constructed of wire glass or safety glass shall be permitted on each side of a sign.

   D.   Any movable part of the projecting sign, such as the cover of a service opening, shall be securely fastened by chains or hinges.

   E.   Except by special permission of the city council, projecting signs shall be limited in area as follows:

      1.   Horizontal projecting signs, fifty (50) square feet each side.

      2.   Vertical projecting signs, one hundred (100) square feet each side.

   F.   The distance measured between the principal faces of any projecting sign shall not exceed eighteen inches (18").

   G.   Every projecting sign shall be placed at least ten feet (10') above the sidewalk over which it is erected and at a distance of not greater than two feet (2') from the face of the wall to which it is attached, measuring from the point on the sign nearest thereto. No such sign or part thereof shall extend over the property line.

   H.   Every projecting sign shall be erected in full compliance with sections entitled "Obstruction of Doors, Windows or Fire Escapes", and "Interfering With or Obstructing Traffic".

   I.   Projecting signs exceeding ten (10) square feet in area or fifty (50) pounds in weight shall not be attached to nor supported by frame buildings nor the wooden framework of a building. The signs shall be attached to masonry walls with galvanized expansion bolts at least three-eighths inch (3/8") in diameter, shall be fixed in the wall by means of bolts extending through the wall, shall contain proper size metal washer or plate on the inside of the wall and shall comply with section entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements".

   J.   No projecting sign shall be secured with wire, strips of wood or nails, nor shall any projecting sign be hung or secured to any other sign.

   K.   V-shaped projecting signs, consisting of two (2) single-faced signs erected without a roof or ceiling shall not be permitted. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   No temporary sign of combustible material shall exceed four feet (4') in one of its dimensions or one hundred (100) square feet in area. Such signs in excess of sixty (60) square feet shall be made of rigid materials, i.e., of wallboard or other light materials with frames.

   B.   Every temporary sign weighing in excess of fifty (50) pounds must be approved by the building official as conforming to the safety requirements of the building code of the city.

   C.   Temporary signs of flashing or intermittently lighted types shall be prohibited.

   D.   No temporary sign shall extend over or into any street, alley, sidewalk or other public thoroughfare. Temporary sign shall not extend a distance greater than four inches (4") from the wall upon which it is erected, and such sign shall not be placed or projected over any wall opening.

   E.   No temporary sign shall be erected so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window or fire escape, nor shall such sign be attached to any standpipe or fire escape.

   F.   Every temporary sign shall be attached to the wall with wire or steel cables and no strings, ropes or wood slots for anchorage or support purposes shall be permitted.

   G.   The advertisement contained on any temporary sign shall pertain only to the business, industry or pursuit conducted on or within the premises on which such sign is erected or maintained.

   H.   Unless specifically permitted in another section of this chapter, no sign shall be erected on or over the public right of way. Merchandise, such as tires, produce, any other articles for sale, shall not be located in any manner in the public right of way.

   I.   The use of any boulevard, street, parkway or park road right of way or park, under the control of the city for any political, social, civic, or charitable nonaccessory advertising purpose is prohibited. No permit is required for legally erected political signs; however, such signs must be removed immediately after the election to which they pertain. The city's use of these areas to display public information or the placement of decoration is excluded from this regulation.

   J.   The painting, scattering, spreading of any other sign or advertising media in any manner along any public right of way or public property or any bills, wastepaper, paper, cloth or any other materials used in advertising is prohibited.

   K.   No person shall permit the manufacturing, installing, erecting, or displaying of any obscene, indecent, or immoral matter or advertising.

   L.   The erection, construction or maintenance of any sign upon any property or building without the consent of the owner, holder, lessee, agent, or transferee, in writing to be filed with the permit application, is prohibited.

   M.   The name of the sign contractor or the sign owner responsible for erection and maintenance of any sign, shall be painted on or attached by use of a nameplate in a conspicuous location of the supporting structure or display surface of the sign.

   N.   The owner of any property on which a sign is located and those responsible for maintenance of the sign shall be equally responsible for the conditions of the area in the vicinity of the sign and shall be required to keep this area clean, sanitary and free from noxious or offensive substances, rubbish and flammable waste materials.

   O.   All temporary or portable signs shall conform to the requirements of section entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements". (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   Measurements: No portable sign shall exceed six feet (6') in height as measured from ground level and portable signs in excess of thirty two (32) square feet in area (single-face) shall be prohibited as provided in the national electrical code as adopted by ordinance.

   B.   Flashing Lights Prohibited: Portable signs of flashing or intermittently lighted types shall be prohibited.

   C.   Construction; Wiring: All such signs shall be constructed of noncombustible material and all wiring and conduit running to, in, or around the sign shall meet all requirements of this code. The electrical cord from sign body to outlet shall not exceed six feet (6') in length.

   D.   Projection Over Public Property Or Driveways: No portion of a portable sign shall be placed upon, extend over, or extend into any street, alley, sidewalk, driveway or public thoroughfare.

   E.   Locations: Portable sign locations shall be regulated as provided in section entitled "Interfering With or Obstructing Traffic" of this chapter.

   F.   Anchored To Pavement: Portable signs shall be anchored with chains or steel cables attached to bolts embedded in pavement, a standard auger type of flex-type trailer anchor or approved equal, in such a manner as to meet wind pressure and dead load requirements of this chapter.

   G.   Maintenance Provisions: Permits for portable signs shall authorize erection of such signs and their continued maintenance by the owner for a period not to exceed one year. Permits may be granted for additional one year periods as long as the building inspector finds the sign complies with the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983; amd. Ord. 110, 1-3-1984)

   A.   All marquees, including the anchors, bolts, supports, rods and braces thereof shall be constructed of incombustible materials, shall be designed by a structural engineer and approved by the building inspection department as in compliance with the building code of the city and by the electrical inspector as in compliance with the electrical code of the city, and where the electrical code does not cover the situation, the Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc., standard for electric signs shall cover.

   B.   The roofs of all marquees shall be properly guttered and connected by downspout to a sanitary or storm sewer so that the water therefrom will not drip or flow onto public property.

   C.   No portion of a marquee shall be less than ten feet (10') above the level of the sidewalk or other public thoroughfare.

   D.   No marquee shall be permitted to extend beyond a point of two feet (2') inside the curb line.

   E.   No marquee shall be wider than the entrance or entrances of the building, plus five feet (5') on each side thereof; provided, however, that where the entrances to a building are no more than twenty feet (20') apart, a marquee may be made a continuous single structure between the entrances.

   F.   Marquees or canopies can be partially or solely supported by the building to which they are attached. No columns or posts shall be permitted as support therefor.

   G.   The roof of a marquee, except the required glass area, shall be designed and constructed to support a live load of not less than one hundred (100) pounds per square foot. The wind pressure requirements shall be those stated in section 12-614 of this chapter entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements".

   H.   No marquee shall be erected on any building of wood frame construction, unless attached to masonry, concrete or steel supports of the building.

   I.   Signs attached to or hung from a marquee shall be completely within the borderline of the marquee's outer edge, and shall in no instance be lower than ten feet (10') above the sidewalk or public thoroughfare. No sign or advertising materials shall exceed five feet (5') in height exclusive of the name of the establishment exhibiting such marquee. No advertising material shall be placed upon the roof of any marquee. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   Awnings may be constructed of cloth or metal; provided, however, all frames and supports shall be of metal.

   B.   All awnings shall be constructed and erected so that the lowest portion thereof shall not be less than ten feet (10') above the level of the sidewalk or public thoroughfare; fifteen feet (15') if location is not curbed.

   C.   No awning or curb signs on awnings shall be permitted to extend beyond a point two feet (2') inside the curb line.

   D.   No limitations on the width of awnings; provided, however, full compliance with section entitled "Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements" is required.

   E.   Every awning shall be securely attached to and supported by the building. Posts or columns beyond the building line shall not be permitted for awnings. No awning shall be attached to the wood jambs, frames or other wood members of a building (frame buildings excepted), when such buildings are less than ten feet (10') from public property.

   F.   No advertising shall be placed on any awning except that the name of the owner and the business, industry or pursuit conducted within the premises may be painted on or otherwise permanently placed in a space not exceeding eight inches (8") in height on the front and side portions thereof.

   G.   Permits for awnings shall be required as provided in section entitled "Permits Required"; provided, however, if an awning is not a part of the sign it may be constructed by other contractors other than a licensed sign contractor in accordance with the applicable provisions of the building code of the city.

   H.   Every awning shall be rolled or folded against the building wall except when in service as a protection from sun, rain, snow or other inclement weather. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

   A.   All public information display type signs shall be constructed of incombustible material, including the frames, braces and supports thereof.

   B.   The dial, of a public information display type sign shall be not less than thirty inches (30") in diameter.

   C.   Any glass forming a part of a clock or the sign thereon shall be safety glass or plate glass at least one-fourth inch (1/4") thick. In case any single piece or pane of glass has an area exceeding three (3) square feet, it shall be constructed of wired glass, securely held in place.

   D.   Any moveable part of a public information display type sign, such as the cover or service opening, shall be securely fastened by metal hinges.

   E.   Public information display type signs supported on the corner of any building or structure at the intersection of two (2) streets shall not project from the face or wall of the building or structure in any direction more than two feet (2').

   F.   Every public information display type sign erected on a sidewalk shall be supported upon a post of ornamental design.

   G.   All public information display type signs erected on the exterior of any building or structure shall comply with the requirements set forth in section entitled "supports and attachments" regulating wall signs, or section entitled "bracing, anchorage and supports" regulating projecting signs, whichever applies.

   H.   All public information display type signs, whether erected on exterior walls or on the sidewalk, shall comply with the requirements of section 12-614, "Wind Pressure And Dead Load Requirements", of this chapter.

   I.   Any person erecting a public information display type sign on any public sidewalk shall obtain the special written permission of the city board of trustees, in addition to all other permits required hereunder.

   J.   No person shall be permitted to erect more than one public information display type sign for any place of business at any one location.

   K.   Only the name of the owner, proprietor or manager of the place of business erecting and maintaining a public information display type sign shall be permitted as advertising matter on such sign.

   L.   Such public information display type sign shall keep accurate time, and if this condition is not complied with the sign shall be promptly repaired or removed. (Ord. 104, 7-21-1983)

Any person, firm or corporation or other legal entity which shall violate any of the provisions of this chapter or fails to comply therewith, or with any of the requirements thereof, shall be deemed guilty of an offense punishable by a fine as provided in section 1-108 of this code. (1986 Code)