Hays City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 7

Signs

ARTICLE 7.2 SIGNS

Sec. 7.1.101 Purpose and Intent

Purpose. It is the purpose of this Chapter to provide uniform sign standards which promote a positive City image reflecting order, harmony, and pride, thereby strengthening the economic stability of the City's business, cultural, and residential areas.

Intent. It is the intent of this Chapter to provide comprehensive regulation of signs, including the erection, alteration, and maintenance within the City limits, in order to protect and enhance the health, safety, and welfare of the general public, and provide such comprehensive regulations in a manner which will be compatible with all applicable City regulations.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.1.102 Application

Application.

Generally. All construction, relocation, enlargement, alteration, and modification of signs within the City shall conform to the requirements of this Chapter and all state and federal regulations concerning signs and advertising, and applicable building and electrical codes as adopted by the City, as may be amended from time to time.
Construction of Chapter. Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to authorize any projection or encroachment upon any street, alley, or public way in the City that is prohibited by law or other ordinance, nor to express or imply any permission, license, or permit for any structure to encroach upon or project within the lines of any street, alley, or public way which shall not be revocable by order of the Planning Commission. All structures or portions of structures previously erected or located which project beyond the street or building line shall be removed or reconstructed in accordance with a resolution of the Planning Commission as provided by law or City ordinances.
Permit Required. No person, firm, or corporation shall erect, construct, install, demolish, convert, relocate, enlarge, repair, modify, or alter any sign within the City limits without a sign permit having been obtained in conformance with this Code.
Signs Permitted Before Effective Date. If a permit for a sign has been issued in accordance with all City ordinances in effect prior to the effective date of this Code, and provided that construction is begun within six months of the effective date and diligently pursued to completion, said sign may be completed in accordance with the approved plans on the basis of which the permit has been issued, subject thereafter, if applicable, to the provisions regarding nonconforming signs.
Relationship to Other Regulations. This Code recognizes that there are other regulations that pertain to signage. Where any provision of this Chapter covers the same subject matter as other regulations, the more restrictive regulation shall apply.
Measurements and Calculations. The regulations for measurements and calculations for this Chapter are set out in Division 14.1.100, Measurements.

Signs that Require a Sign Permit.

No sign less than two feet by two feet in size shall require a permit.
All signs set out in Division 7.2.200, Permanent Signs.

Exempted Signs.

The following signs shall be exempt from the requirements of this Chapter:
1. Flags or emblems of a governmental or of a political, civic, philanthropic, educational, or religious organization on private property;
2. Signs of a duly constituted governmental body, including traffic or similar regulatory signs, legal notices, warnings at railroad crossings, and other instructional or regulatory signs having to do with health, safety, parking, swimming, dumping, etc.;
3. Memorial signs and tablets displayed on private property;
4. Small signs, not exceeding three square feet in area, displayed on private property for the convenience of the public, including signs to identify entrance and exit drives, parking areas, one-way drives, restrooms, freight entrances, and other similar signs; and
5. Scoreboards in athletic stadiums.
6. Temporary displays commonly associated with any national, local, or religious holiday or celebration for a duration, not to exceed 90 days per holiday.
The following signs are exempt from a required permit but shall comply with all of the other regulations imposed by this Chapter:
1. Nameplate signs not exceeding two square feet in gross area accessory to a single-family or duplex dwelling;
2. Bulletin board signs not exceeding 15 square feet in gross area accessory to a church, school, or public or nonprofit institution;
3. Temporary, noncommercial signs not exceeding 32 square feet in area.
4. No temporary noncommercial signs shall be placed or erected:
  1. In or on the public right-of-way;
  2. In or on any private property without the express permission of the owner or occupant of such property.

Signs That Do Not Require a Sign Permit.

Address signs;
Flags;
Holiday decorations;
Integral signs;
Interior signs;
Official and legal notice;
Traffic control signs;
Way-finding signs; and
Temporary signs.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.101 General Design Guidelines

Generally.

The construction of all signs shall be authorized upon the basis of an application and a permit to be approved by the Planning Inspection Enforcement Office, and no permit shall be issued except upon the approval of plans and specifications supplied with the application.
No sign shall be maintained at any location where, by reason of its position, size, shape, or color, it may obstruct, impair, obscure, interfere with the view of or be confused with any traffic or railroad control sign, signal or device, or where it may interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
Any sign located within three feet of a driveway or within a parking area shall have its lowest elevation at least nine feet above the curb level; however, in no event shall any sign be placed so as to project over any vehicular traveled public way.
All advertising or display signs to be erected or hung upon poles or other permanent structures, designed or built for the purpose, other than billboards or panel posters, shall be metal or other noncombustible materials. It shall be unlawful to locate, construct, or maintain any permanent sign upon or within the street parking adjacent to any roadway or sidewalk in the City; provided that temporary or movable signs may be placed in or over streets, sidewalks, or street parking as provided in this Chapter.
All signs shall be constructed in a substantial manner to withstand wind pressure. All signs shall be constructed without moveable parts and shall be fastened or anchored not to swing or otherwise be dislodged from their moorings.

Placement. The placement of signs on buildings shall be clearly visible and in logical locations where most patrons would expect to see a sign. Appropriate sign locations:

Respect Public Right-of-Way. Signage shall not encroach into right-of-way maintained by the City, unless there is a license agreement with the City.
Place within Structural Boundaries. Signs shall not project above roof lines or the edges of building walls unless otherwise approved by the Zoning Administrator..

Illumination. Well-designed signs are appropriately illuminated with careful consideration as to the type and strength of illumination.

Shield the Light Source. The light source, whether internal or external, shall be shielded from view or directed so that the light intensity or brightness is not objectionable to surrounding areas. Signs shall feature the minimum level required for nighttime readability. Ground-mounted external flood lighting must be shielded and properly placed and directed to avoid direct visibility of the directed light to passing motorists.
Sign Electrical Raceways and Conduits:
1. Electrical transformer boxes and raceways should be concealed from public view. If a raceway cannot be mounted internally behind the finished exterior wall, the exposed metal surfaces of the raceway should be finished to match the background wall or integrated into the overall sign design.
2. If raceways are necessary, they should be as thin and narrow as possible and should never extend in width or height beyond the area of the sign’s lettering or graphics.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.102 Prohibited Signs and Design Elements

Generally. This Item identifies signs and sign elements that are not allowed anywhere in the City.

Prohibited Signs.

The following signs are prohibited in all areas of the City:
1. Animated or moving signs that are visible from public street right-of-way, including any moving, swinging, rotating, scintillating, fluctuating, or otherwise animated light (except time and temperature signs and those as allowed in Section 7.2.105, Message Centers). These signs include pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners, or other similarly moving devices, whether or not part of any sign.
2. Abandoned signs.
3. Roof signs.
4. Portable signs, except as specifically permitted in Section 7.2.301, Standards for Temporary Signs by Type.
5. Signs placed on public property, except those placed by the public entity and subdivision identification monuments or subdivision entrance signs when located within the subdivision limits on property that is commonly owned and subject to covenants, conditions, and restrictions. Removal of signs on public property include:
  1. Any unauthorized temporary sign placed upon public property including public right-of-way, or upon any lamppost, public utility pole, or traffic utility device located within the public right-of-way is declared to be a public nuisance. The Zoning Administrator or any other individual authorized by this Code shall cause its removal in the manner provided by this Chapter.
  2. Any temporary sign, bill, advertisement, or notice posted or placed on public property in violation of this Chapter may be torn down or removed by any law enforcement officer, any Planning Inspection Enforcement personnel, or any personnel of Public Works.
  3. Any temporary sign removed pursuant to Subsection B.1.e.ii., above, which is six square feet or larger and composed entirely of metal or wood shall be kept by the Planning Inspection Enforcement Office or other department designated to remove such sign for a period of 20 days, after which it may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate by the City. All other signs removed pursuant to to Subsection B.1.e.ii., above, may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate by the City.
6. Off-premise advertising signs that are located on building roofs or walls.
7. Stacked off-premise advertising signs.
8. Signs that are a traffic hazard because they simulate or imitate (in size, color, lettering, or design) any traffic sign, signal, or device as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
9. Under no circumstances shall any sign be placed in the site distance triangle (see Section 6.2.207, Sight Triangle Requirements).
10. Any non-governmental sign that is located in, upon, or over any public right-of-way, except:
  1. Projecting signs in the Mixed Use (M-U) District and Central Business (C-3) District, as applicable;
  2. Traffic control signs installed by a governmental entity;
  3. Banners posted or approved by the City on utility or light poles;
  4. Signs constructed by the City that implement a way-finding program; and
  5. Signs affixed to the transit system shelters and bus benches.
11. No sign shall be attached to a tree or utility pole, whether on public or private property.
12. Signs that violate City, county, state, or federal laws.
13. Signs not expressly allowed by this Code.
Other signs may be prohibited in certain districts.

Prohibited Sign Materials. Paper and cloth signs are not suitable and shall not be used for exterior use (except high quality, weather-resistant cloth). Wood signs must be sealed and maintained to keep moisture from deteriorating the sign.

Prohibited Obstructions. In no event shall a sign, whether temporary or permanent, obstruct:

Features of the building or site that are necessary for public safety, including Fire Department connections (FDCs), standpipes, and fire hydrants; or
Be erected where, by reason of the position, shape, or color, it interferes with or obstructs the view of a sight distance triangle.

Prohibited Mounts. No (snipe) sign shall be placed on public property, whether temporary or permanent, or shall be posted, installed, or mounted on any of the following locations:

On trees, shrubs, or landscaping of any type.
On utility poles or light poles.
On utility cabinets, except signs posted by the utility that are necessary for public safety or identification of the facility by the utility provider.

Prohibited Locations. In addition to the setback requirements set out in Division 7.2.200, Permanent Signs, and Division 7.2.300, Temporary Signs, and other restrictions of this Chapter, no sign shall be located within easements for overhead utilities (placement in other utility easements is allowed only if approved by the utility service provider and if the other applicable requirements of this Code are met).

Prohibited Design Elements.

The following elements shall not be used as an element of signs or sign structures, whether temporary or permanent:
1. Sound, smoke, or odor emitters.
2. Stacked products (e.g., tires, soft drink cases, bagged soil or mulch).
The following elements shall not be used as an element of signs or sign structures, whether temporary or permanent, which are visible from public street right-of-way:
1. Flags, banners, or comparable elements that are designed to move in the wind, but only when such elements are attached to another sign type (e.g., flags may be attached to flagpoles, but may not be attached to monument signs).
2. Spinning or moving parts.
3. Motor vehicles, unless:
  1. The vehicles are functional, used as motor vehicles, and have current registration and tags; and
  2. The display of signage is incidental to the motor vehicle use (see Figure 7.2.102, Vehicle Signs).
4. Semi-trailers, shipping containers, or portable storage units, unless:
  1. The trailers, containers, or portable storage units are functional, used for their primary storage purpose, and, if subject to registration, have current registration and tags;
  2. The display of signage is incidental to the use for temporary storage, pick-up, or delivery; and
  3. The semi-trailer is parked in a designated loading area or on a construction site at which it is being used for deliveries or storage.

Figure 7.2.102
Vehicle Signs

Prohibited Content.
1. The following content is prohibited without reference to the viewpoint of the individual speaker:
  1. Text or graphics of an indecent or immoral nature and harmful to minors;
  2. Text or graphics that advertise unlawful activity;
  3. Text or graphics that are obscene, fighting words, defamation, incitement to imminent lawless action, or true threats; or
  4. Text or graphics that present a clear and present danger due to their potential confusion with traffic control signs or signs that provide public safety information (for example, signs that use the words or comparable words, phrases, symbols, or characters in such a manner as to imply a safety hazard that does not exist).
2. The narrow classifications of content that are prohibited by this Item are either not protected by the United States or Kansas Constitutions, or are offered limited protection that is outweighed by the substantial governmental interests in protecting the public safety and welfare. It is the intent of the City Commission that each paragraph of this Item be individually severable in the event that a court of competent jurisdiction is to hold one or more of them to be inconsistent with the United States or Kansas Constitutions.
Removal of Prohibited Signs. Except for signs that constitute a safety hazard, persons having a prohibited sign shall be notified by certified mail, return receipt requested, and informed of their right, within ten business days of the time of receipt of the certified notice, to schedule a meeting with the Zoning Administrator, or designee, to discuss the prohibited sign and the procedures for conforming with the regulations set out in this Chapter. Failure by the owner of the prohibited sign to appear at the scheduled meeting shall not be reason for delaying removal of the prohibited sign. After proper notice, prohibited signs shall be removed within 30 calendar days of the time of receipt of the certified notice.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.103 Unsafe Signs

Generally. Attached signs shall be installed on signable areas of buildings, as defined by Section 14.1.113, Sign Calculations. Detached signs shall be set back as required by Section 7.2.202, Detached Signs. Signs that are in violation of this Subsection are subject to immediate removal, as set out in Subsection F., below.

Unsafe Signs. Signs determined to be unsafe, insecure, or a menace to the public shall be repaired or removed within five calendar days after written notification is provided to the owner or occupant of the building or property. If the Zoning Administrator, or a designee, finds that a sign regulated by this Chapter is an immediate peril to persons or property, the Zoning Administrator shall cause it to be repaired or removed summarily and without notice. Repair or removal of an unsafe sign by the Zoning Administrator, or a designee, shall be at the expense of the owner of the sign or the owner of the property on which the sign is located.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.104 Illumination of Signs

Generally. All signs, if external illumination is used, the source of illumination shall be shielded.

Shielding of Light Source/Prevention of Glare. The source of light shall be oriented or otherwise controlled to prevent glare toward any party of an existing residence, a residential area or district, or a public street or highway.

Color. Lighted signs in direct vision of a traffic signal shall not emulate traffic control signals.

Code Compliance. Illuminated signs shall be constructed in accordance with all applicable building and electrical codes.

Electrical Service. When electrical service is provided to a sign, all such electrical service shall be placed underground if practicable.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.105 Electronic Message Centers and Changeable Copy Signs

Generally. Electronic message, light emitting diode (LED), electronic animated signs, and changeable copy signs may be used as part of monument, pylon, or pole signs, and marquee signs to a limited degree, pursuant to the standards of this Section.

Message Centers. Electronic message, LED, and electronic animated signs, also known as "electronic message centers" may be incorporated into signage as follows:

Design Requirements.
1. Electronic message centers are only permitted as an integral element of a monument sign, pole sign, pylon sign, or marquee sign, which enclose the message center component on all sides with a finish of brick, stone, stucco, powder coated (or comparably finished) metal, or the surface of the sign face.
2. No sign structure that includes a changeable copy sign may also include an electronic message center.
Dimming Controls. No electronic message center shall be erected or installed without dimming controls to ensure the sign is appropriately dimmed at night. Acceptable dimming controls include automated light sensing devices (photocells) and/or programmable controls that are set by the user to automatically dim the sign at night. The maximum nighttime brightness and/or light intensity shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over ambient light conditions.
Abutting Residential. Signs subject to the requirements of this Subsection shall be shaded or adjusted wherever necessary to avoid bright light upon property in any residential district or upon any public street. Any message center located on a lot adjacent to or across the street from any residential district, and which is visible within 200 feet of any residential district, shall not be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Signs may not be illuminated unless so designated to permit same.
Placement Standards. Electronic message centers:
1. Are prohibited in the Agriculture (A-L), Residential Multi-Family (R-M), and Neighborhood Shopping (C-1) Districts; and in the NC.1 and NC.2 Sub-Districts;
2. May be permitted with approval of an exception permit for public/institutional, nonresidential, or mixed uses that exist as of the effective date of this Code in the Residential Suburban (R-S) and Residential General (R-G) Districts or in the NC.4 or NC.5 Sub-Districts, subject to the standards of this Chapter;
3. Shall not be permitted if there is a nonconforming electronic message center, owned by the same person, firm, or corporation, within 1,320 feet of the proposed location, unless the nonconforming sign becomes conforming; and
Operational Standards.
1. Display. Electronic message centers shall:
  1. Contain a default design that will freeze the sign in one position with no more illumination than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light if a malfunction occurs.
  2. Off Premise message centers shall display messages for a period of not less than eight seconds and use transitions or frame effects must be accomplished within an interval of twoseconds or less.
  3. Not include audio, pyrotechnic, or bluecasting (bluetooth advertising) components.
2. Lighting. Message centers shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light when measured from a specified distance. This measurement calculates the illumination of the sign and incorporates a scientific formula to ensure consistency of the measurement when applied to electronic message centers of varying sizes and resolutions. The instrument to measure the illuminance of electronic message centers shall be an illuminance meter more commonly referred to as a lux or foot-candle meter. The illuminance meter must have the ability to provide a reading up to two decimal places and must be set to read foot-candles. The method to calculate the appropriate distance from which the illuminance shall be measured is the square root of the area of the message center times 100.
3. Spacing. Message centers shall have a minimum spacing of:
  1. 50 feet between the electronic message center and the property line of any residential use or district set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses. The distance shall be calculated as the shortest measurable distance between the nearest point of the sign to the edge of the residential property line or district or to the property line of an institutional use.
  2. 400 feet between electronic message centers on the same property, with a maximum of no more than two electronic message centers per any same street frontage. The distance shall be calculated as the shortest measurable distance between the nearest points of the signs.
Pre-Date this Code. Any electronic message center in existence before the effective date of this Code which does not conform to the dimming control requirements of Subsection B.2, above, shall be required to modify such electronic message center to comply with the dimming control within one year of the effective date of this Code.

Changeable Copy Signs. Changeable copy signs may be incorporated into signage as follows:

Design Requirements.
1. Changeable copy signs are only permitted as an integral element of a monument, pylon, pole or marquee signs, which enclose the changeable copy area on all sides with a finish of brick, stone, stucco, powder coated (or comparably finished) metal, or the surface of the sign face. Gaps between the changeable copy area and the surround are permitted to accommodate locks and hinges for a cover for the changeable copy area, but only to the extent necessary for such locks and hinges to operate.
2. Changeable copy signs, including their frames, shall make up not more than 50 percent of the sign area of a monument sign, marquee sign, pole sign, or pylon sign. The balance of the sign area shall utilize permanently affixed letters or symbols.
Lettering of changeable copy signs shall be of a single style and shall be of uniform color and size.

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.106 Sign Maintenance

Generally. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times.

Preservation. All signs, together with all their supports, braces, connections, anchors, and any addition or extension thereto shall be kept in repair and in proper state of preservation.

Structural Maintenance. Any crazing, fading, chipping, peeling of flaking paint, plastic or glass, or any mechanical, electrical or structural defect shall be corrected within 60 days upon notice by the City, or the sign shall be removed.

Owner Responsibility. Every sign and the immediate surrounding premises shall be maintained by the owner or person in charge thereof in a safe, clean, sanitary, and inoffensive condition, and shall be kept free and clear of all obnoxious substances, rubbish, and weeds.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.107 Removal of Signs

Removal of Certain Signs.

Any sign, now or hereafter existing which has not advertised a bona fide business being conducted, or a product being sold for a period of six months or more, and after written notification from the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee, shall have all of the message section and advertising taken down and removed by the property owner upon which the sign is located. In addition, any sign, now or hereafter, existing which has not advertised a bona fide business being conducted, or a product being sold for a period of one year or more, and after written notification from the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee, shall be removed in its entirety, including the structure to grade.
Notwithstanding Subsection A.1. above, in cases of emergency, the City may cause the immediate removal of a dangerous or defective sign without notice.
Failure of any person to comply with this Subsection shall be subject to the enforcement under the abatement regulations set out in Division 13.1.200, Enforcement, including all costs associated with fines and fees.

Illegal Sign Removal. The Zoning Administrator may, without paying compensation, remove any illegal sign placed in the public right-of-way.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.201 Attached Signs

Generally. There are many forms of attached signs. This Section sets out which forms of attached signs are allowed in each zoning district and the standards that apply to them. Attached signs that are not listed in Table 7.2.201A, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts and Table 7.2.201B, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts, are not allowed in any of the districts set out in the table.

Residential Uses. The standards of Table 7.2.201A, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts, applies to the residential zoning districts set out in the table.

Table 7.2.201A Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Awning or Canopy Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	20 sf.	2 sf.
Illumination	None
Allowances	May not be used in combination with any other sign
Other Limitations	The sign shall be attached to or affixed flat against the front street wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	Yes, if specified as part of a limited use permit as set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses
Hanging Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	12 sf. per single-family and duplex unit 0.5 per each multi-family unit
Illumination	None
Allowances	May be used only for single- , two- , and multi-family dwellings; no other signs allowed
Other Limitations	The sign shall be affixed flat against the wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	No
Wall Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Window Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Maximum Signable Area Ratio	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--

Table 7.2.201A Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Awning or Canopy Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	20 sf.	2 sf.
Illumination	None
Allowances	May not be used in combination with any other sign
Other Limitations	The sign shall be attached to or affixed flat against the front street wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	Yes, if specified as part of a limited use permit as set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses
Hanging Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	12 sf. per single-family and duplex unit 0.5 per each multi-family unit
Illumination	None
Allowances	May be used only for single- , two- , and multi-family dwellings; no other signs allowed
Other Limitations	The sign shall be affixed flat against the wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	No
Wall Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Window Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Maximum Signable Area Ratio	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--

Nonresidential Uses. The standards of Table 7.2.201B, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts, applies to the nonresidential zoning districts set out in the table.

Table 7.2.201B Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3¹	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Awning or Canopy Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per storefront for a mixed use or multi-tenant building
Maximum Sign Area	50% of total square footage of front awning area
Maximum Clearance	8 ft. above grade
Illumination	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a wall sign, plus 1 detached sign (excluding temporary signs set out in Division 7.2.300, Temporary Signs)
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		2 sf.	--		2 sf.	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Hanging Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per building
Maximum Sign Area	6 sf.
Maximum Height	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	Indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a awning or canopy
Other Limitations	May not extend within 2 ft. of the curb line May be suspended under a marquee sign in the C-2 and C-3 districts Not allowed if a projecting sign is used
Sign Permit Required	No
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per street facing facade
Maximum Sign Area	--	50 sf. per side; 100 sf. total
Maximum Height	--	5 ft., excluding any top ornament supported directly by the marquee or awning
Minimum Clearance	--	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	--	Down lighting; only the sign area containing the letters or logos may be illuminated with interior lighting
Allowances	--	May be used in lieu of an awning or canopy sign, hanging sign, or a projecting sign.
Other Limitations	--	1. May not project more than 8 ft. from the building; may require an encroachment permit 2. Sign may be on up to three sides of a marquee
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per business					--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--	8 ft.; only to within 1 ft. of curb line					--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--	8 ft. above grade; including accessory lighting fixtures					--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--	Street right-of-way = 14 ft. above grade Other vehicle ways = 9 ft. above grade					--
Maximum Sign Area	--	32 sf.					--
Illumination	--	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only					--
Other Limitations	--	All projecting signs shall be securely attached to the building or structure by bolts, anchors, chains, or galvanized steel guys or cables and shall not be attached to parapet walls in any manner unless such walls are reinforced with steel and designed to support other than the weight of such wall					--
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes					--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		See residential districts	--		See	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		No	--		No	--
Wall Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	Unlimited for all districts
Maximum Sign Area	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign
Illumination	Yes
Allowances	May be used in combination with awning or canopy or hanging signs
Other Limitations	Not project more than 24 in. from the wall or 3 ft. above the wall All wall display signs shall not extend beyond the top and the ends of the wall surface to which they are attached. Wall signs shall maintain a minimum distance of one foot from the lease line of the occupant's portion of the facade. All wall signs shall be securely attached to the building wall by means of metal anchors, bolts, or screws. No such sign shall be fastened by nails, staples, or screws into wooden blocks, or nailing strips built into the masonry
Sign Permit Required	Yes

Table 7.2.201B Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3¹	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Awning or Canopy Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per storefront for a mixed use or multi-tenant building
Maximum Sign Area	50% of total square footage of front awning area
Maximum Clearance	8 ft. above grade
Illumination	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a wall sign, plus 1 detached sign (excluding temporary signs set out in Division 7.2.300, Temporary Signs)
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		2 sf.	--		2 sf.	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Hanging Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per building
Maximum Sign Area	6 sf.
Maximum Height	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	Indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a awning or canopy
Other Limitations	May not extend within 2 ft. of the curb line May be suspended under a marquee sign in the C-2 and C-3 districts Not allowed if a projecting sign is used
Sign Permit Required	No
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per street facing facade
Maximum Sign Area	--	50 sf. per side; 100 sf. total
Maximum Height	--	5 ft., excluding any top ornament supported directly by the marquee or awning
Minimum Clearance	--	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	--	Down lighting; only the sign area containing the letters or logos may be illuminated with interior lighting
Allowances	--	May be used in lieu of an awning or canopy sign, hanging sign, or a projecting sign.
Other Limitations	--	1. May not project more than 8 ft. from the building; may require an encroachment permit 2. Sign may be on up to three sides of a marquee
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per business					--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--	8 ft.; only to within 1 ft. of curb line					--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--	8 ft. above grade; including accessory lighting fixtures					--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--	Street right-of-way = 14 ft. above grade Other vehicle ways = 9 ft. above grade					--
Maximum Sign Area	--	32 sf.					--
Illumination	--	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only					--
Other Limitations	--	All projecting signs shall be securely attached to the building or structure by bolts, anchors, chains, or galvanized steel guys or cables and shall not be attached to parapet walls in any manner unless such walls are reinforced with steel and designed to support other than the weight of such wall					--
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes					--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		See residential districts	--		See	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		No	--		No	--
Wall Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	Unlimited for all districts
Maximum Sign Area	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign
Illumination	Yes
Allowances	May be used in combination with awning or canopy or hanging signs
Other Limitations	Not project more than 24 in. from the wall or 3 ft. above the wall All wall display signs shall not extend beyond the top and the ends of the wall surface to which they are attached. Wall signs shall maintain a minimum distance of one foot from the lease line of the occupant's portion of the facade. All wall signs shall be securely attached to the building wall by means of metal anchors, bolts, or screws. No such sign shall be fastened by nails, staples, or screws into wooden blocks, or nailing strips built into the masonry
Sign Permit Required	Yes

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.202 Detached Signs

Generally. This Section sets out which forms of detached signs are allowed in each zoning district, and the size and height; separation, setback, and illumination standards that apply to them. Detached signs that are not listed in Table 7.2.202A, Permissible Detached Sign Types for Residential Districts and Table 7.2.202B, Permissible Detached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts, are not allowed in any of the districts set out in the table.

Design and Materials of Monuments and Freestanding Signs. All monument and freestanding signs shall be designed and constructed to substantially appear as a solid mass, such as a cylinder, block, rectangle, or square, from ground level to the highest portion of the sign. All monument and freestanding signs must be made of masonry, stucco, metal, routed wood planks or beams, high density urethane, polycarbonates, or durable plastic.

Table 7.2.202A Permissible Detached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Separation	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Directional/Informational Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Height	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Monument (Ground) Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--				1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	--				36 sf.
Maximum Sign Height	--				4 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	--				5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	--				75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--				Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	--				Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Height	--
Minimum Setback/Location	--
Minimum Spacing	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202A Permissible Detached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Separation	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Directional/Informational Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Height	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Monument (Ground) Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--				1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	--				36 sf.
Maximum Sign Height	--				4 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	--				5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	--				75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--				Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	--				Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Height	--
Minimum Setback/Location	--
Minimum Spacing	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202B Permissible Detached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--			1 per property; not allowed if two or more on-site monument (ground) or pole signs totaling 250 sf. facing a travel direction within 35 ft. of street right-of-way		--
Maximum Sign Area	--			200 sf.		--
Maximum Height	--			50 ft.		--
Minimum Separation	--			500 ft. or more (facing the same direction of travel) if an off-site billboard sign is greater than 200 sf. and 30 ft.; all others shall not be less than 200 ft. apart when facing the same direction of travel		--
Minimum Setback	--			Per the zoning district in which the sign is located		--
Illumination	--			Indirect only		--
Other Limitations	--			Applicable only within the City limits. See Section 7.2.402, Off-Site Billboards		--
Sign Permit Required	--			Yes		--
Directional/Informational Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	One per entrance and exit
Maximum Height	10 ft.			10 ft.		10 ft.	10 ft.
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	3 sf.	6 sf.	3 sf.	8 sf.		6 sf.	8 sf.
Maximum Sign Area	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.		40 sf.	40 sf.
Minimum Setback	None
Illumination	Internal or External
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Monument (Ground) Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage			1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	36 sf.	100 sf. max.	36 sf. max.	100 sf. max.		36 sf. max.	36 sf. (see allowances)
Maximum Sign Height	8 ft.	10 ft.	8 ft.	12 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	2 maximum	1 maximum	2 maximum
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max. per sign
Maximum Sign Height	--	30 ft, however for each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.	30 ft.	For each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.
Minimum Setback/Location	--	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height	None	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height
Minimum Spacing	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External
Allowances	--	--	--	--
Other Limitations	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(G)
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes	Yes	Yes
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202B Permissible Detached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--			1 per property; not allowed if two or more on-site monument (ground) or pole signs totaling 250 sf. facing a travel direction within 35 ft. of street right-of-way		--
Maximum Sign Area	--			200 sf.		--
Maximum Height	--			50 ft.		--
Minimum Separation	--			500 ft. or more (facing the same direction of travel) if an off-site billboard sign is greater than 200 sf. and 30 ft.; all others shall not be less than 200 ft. apart when facing the same direction of travel		--
Minimum Setback	--			Per the zoning district in which the sign is located		--
Illumination	--			Indirect only		--
Other Limitations	--			Applicable only within the City limits. See Section 7.2.402, Off-Site Billboards		--
Sign Permit Required	--			Yes		--
Directional/Informational Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	One per entrance and exit
Maximum Height	10 ft.			10 ft.		10 ft.	10 ft.
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	3 sf.	6 sf.	3 sf.	8 sf.		6 sf.	8 sf.
Maximum Sign Area	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.		40 sf.	40 sf.
Minimum Setback	None
Illumination	Internal or External
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Monument (Ground) Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage			1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	36 sf.	100 sf. max.	36 sf. max.	100 sf. max.		36 sf. max.	36 sf. (see allowances)
Maximum Sign Height	8 ft.	10 ft.	8 ft.	12 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	2 maximum	1 maximum	2 maximum
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max. per sign
Maximum Sign Height	--	30 ft, however for each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.	30 ft.	For each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.
Minimum Setback/Location	--	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height	None	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height
Minimum Spacing	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External
Allowances	--	--	--	--
Other Limitations	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(G)
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes	Yes	Yes
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.301 Standards for Temporary Signs by Type

Generally. This Section sets out which temporary signs are allowed in each zoning district, and the size, height, placement, and timing standards that apply to them.

Findings Related to Temporary Signs. The City Commission finds that:

There is a need and warrant for the display of signage on a one-time, limited duration, and/or intermittent basis to aid businesses and other public or private entities in communicating to their customers, patrons, clients, or to the general public;
The regulation of temporary signage is a substantial governmental interest as means for preserving the quality and integrity of the visual environs in a manner that reflects positively on the community and its attractiveness as a place to visit and live; and
It is reasonable to regulate the number, size, height, location, and duration of signs that are placed on property on a temporary basis so as not to devalue or to lessen the impact or importance of permanent signage.

Enforcement. Temporary signs that are installed improperly or illegally will be removed by the City and the violators will be notified of such violation. If it is determined that the sign cannot be easily removed, the Zoning Administrator, or a designee, will notify the offender of their temporary sign violation. Offenders will have two business days to remove the sign. If the sign is not removed within this time period they are subject to a fine.

Setbacks. All temporary signs shall be set back at least five feet from all property lines. Temporary signs not visible from a public right-of-way or abutting property are not restricted by this Section.

Standards.

Relative to Permanent Signs. Signs that meet the standards of this Section are exempt from the standards for permanent attached and freestanding signs as set out in Division 7.2.200, Permanent Signs, and are not counted in the total square footage of signage allowed on any particular property or site. Signs that do not meet the standards of this Section are subject to the standards for permanent signs or those that are exempted by Sec. 7.1.102, Application.
Illumination. Temporary signs may only have external illumination.
Temporary Banners. Temporary banners are subject to the following regulations:
1. In the A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G districts, temporary banners exceeding a cumulative area of four square feet are prohibited. In the R-M district, temporary banners are allowed up to a maximum cumulative area of 32 square feet.
2. In the C-1, C-2, C-3, I-1, I-2, M-U, and P-I districts, temporary banners are allowed up to a maximum cumulative area of 32 square feet per property or, on a multi-use or multi-tenant property, per storefront. On single use sites that front more than one arterial street, the maximum cumulative area may be increased to 64 square feet. Only one banner may be hung on each building wall or on each separate structure. Any additional banners, or banners larger than 32 square feet in size, must meet the standards for permanent signs in this Code, as follows:
  1. In no case may a single use site or a storefront in a multi-use or multi-tenant property have more than two (2) temporary banners.
  2. A temporary banner may be displayed up to four times per calendar year with each display period not exceeding 30 days for a maximum duration of 120 days per calendar year.
  3. Banners that do not meet the regulations of this subparagraph, must meet the standards for permanent signs.
Temporary Wall or Fascia Signs.
1. In lieu of a temporary banner, one temporary wall sign is allowed per street frontage in the C-1, C-2, I-1, and I-2 districts.
2. Temporary wall signs may be up to 32 square feet in area.
3. Temporary wall signs may not extend above roof lines.
4. Extensions into the right-of-way are prohibited.
5. A temporary wall sign may be displayed no longer than 90 days per calendar year.
Temporary Freestanding or Portable Signs. One temporary freestanding sign is allowed per property in the C-1, C-2, and C-3 districts, which is not counted in the total square footage of permanent signage allowed on the site.
1. Temporary freestanding signs may be up to 12 square feet in area.
2. Extensions into the right-of-way are prohibited, except as permitted in the C-3 district.
3. A temporary freestanding sign may be displayed four times per calendar year with each display period not exceeding 30 days for a maximum duration of 120 days per calendar year.
4. In the C-3 district, a temporary freestanding or portable sign may be displayed daily provided it is removed and stored indoors at the close of business, or 10 p.m. for 24-hour businesses.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.302 Prevention of Visual Clutter in Principal Corridors

Generally. Visual clutter is detrimental to the character of the community, and tends to be distracting to motorists. Strict application of this Section does not restrict ample alternative ways that residents and business owners may communicate their messages.

Corridor Setback Requirement.

No temporary sign shall be placed within the right-of-way (as provided in Subsection 7.2.102, Prohibited Signs and Design Elements), or within 30 feet of the edge of pavement (whichever creates a greater setback from the edge of pavement), along arterial streets or highways.
The setback requirement of this Section shall not apply in the following circumstances:
1. To the front yard of any lot that is used or zoned for single-family residential purposes, when the front lot line is the edge of the right-of-way of a corridor subject to the requirements of Subsection B.1., above.
2. Where an intervening private fence, wall, or other structure clearly delineates the boundary of private property outside of the prescribed public right-of-way, in which case the required setback shall include only the area up to and including the outside surface of such private fence, wall, or other structure.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.401 Central Business (C-3) District

Generally. The Central Business (C-3) District, "Downtown", is the symbolic center of the community, which is conducive to a pedestrian environment. Signs help to convey an image and communicate a message of businesses, which also contribute significantly to the character and visual harmony of Downtown Hays. Therefore, signs in Downtown must be pedestrian-scaled and be of an artistic quality and creative design to reinforce the aesthetic integrity of the area. In addition to the regulations of this Section and elsewhere within this Code, the design of signs within the Central Business (C-3) District that are also within the Chestnut Street Historic District shall be subject to review by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The standards set out in this Section are to implement this vision. The appropriate types of signs in the C-3 district are set out below and illustrated in Figure 7.2.401, Central Business (C-3) District Signage.

Figure 7.2.401
Central Business (C-3) District Signage

Attached Signage. The standards for attached signs set out in Table 7.2.201, Permissible Attached Sign Types, are applicable in the C-3 district.
Temporary Signage. The standards for temporary signs set out in Table 7.2.301, Temporary Sign Types, are applicable in the C-3 district.
Projecting Signs. One projection sign is permitted per storefront provided the sign is no larger than two feet by three feet (2’ x 3’) in size. A projection sign shall be supported by a decorative chain or bracket, designed and constructed with craftsmanship and detail. The sign shall have a minimum clearance of nine feet for pedestrians. No projecting sign shall project more than eight feet from the face of the building or structure and no closer than one foot minimum from the curb line; it shall have a minimum vehicular clearance of 14 feet above the vehicular traveled way. Any such projecting sign shall be oriented so that the face of the sign is perpendicular to the building façade from which it projects.
Business (Directory) and Upper Floor Signs. For two-story multi-tenant buildings, one small directory sign with nameplates of the individual tenants is permitted on the ground floor. The maximum size of the directory is two square feet. The design of the sign shall be integrated with and compliment the building design.
Menu Holders. A freestanding menu holder is permitted on the exterior storefront of a restaurant. Such holder shall be limited to the size of two pages of the menu for which lettering shall not exceed one inch in height. The menu holder shall not be located so as to cause a safety hazard for pedestrians. The menu holder shall not be used for additional signage.

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.402 Off-Site Billboards

Generally. The following Section applies to off-site billboard signs.

Initiation. An application for a new or enlarged off-site billboard sign shall be filed by both the owner(s) of the subject property on which the off-site sign is to be located and the owner of the proposed sign.

Application. A complete application for a new or enlarged off-site billboard sign shall be submitted to the Planning Inspection Enforcement Office. No application shall be processed until the application is complete. Each application for a new or enlarged off-site billboard sign shall be accompanied by a site plan that, at a minimum, includes the following information:

A detailed graphic presentation of the subject property site, including property parcel dimensions;
The location of any other buildings or structures on the site;
The location, size, and type of any other monument (ground) signs on the site;
The distance of the proposed sign from any buildings, structures, or other signs on the site; and
A detailed representation of the proposed sign, including sign structure and sign face dimensions, total height of the sign, and any related appurtenances such as catwalks.

Off-Site Billboard Sign Regulations.

Lot frontage cannot be less than 150 feet.
Cannot be located closer than 500 feet to a park/recreation area, place of worship, museum, or local, state, or national registered historical monument.
May be erected within 500 feet of any such park or recreation areas when such off-site signs are located in athletic field facilities owned or operated by a public body.
All billboard signs are subject to limitations and regulations set out in the State of Kansas Department of Transportation Highway Advertising Control Act of 1972, amended from time to time.
No off-site billboard sign shall be erected that would obscure the view of any on-site sign. This shall be determined by establishing a sight point at the centerline of the street 150 feet in either direction, then no on-site sign within 150 feet of the off-site sign shall be obscured from view.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Hays City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 7

Signs

ARTICLE 7.2 SIGNS

Sec. 7.1.101 Purpose and Intent

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.1.102 Application

Application.

Generally. All construction, relocation, enlargement, alteration, and modification of signs within the City shall conform to the requirements of this Chapter and all state and federal regulations concerning signs and advertising, and applicable building and electrical codes as adopted by the City, as may be amended from time to time.
Construction of Chapter. Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to authorize any projection or encroachment upon any street, alley, or public way in the City that is prohibited by law or other ordinance, nor to express or imply any permission, license, or permit for any structure to encroach upon or project within the lines of any street, alley, or public way which shall not be revocable by order of the Planning Commission. All structures or portions of structures previously erected or located which project beyond the street or building line shall be removed or reconstructed in accordance with a resolution of the Planning Commission as provided by law or City ordinances.
Permit Required. No person, firm, or corporation shall erect, construct, install, demolish, convert, relocate, enlarge, repair, modify, or alter any sign within the City limits without a sign permit having been obtained in conformance with this Code.
Signs Permitted Before Effective Date. If a permit for a sign has been issued in accordance with all City ordinances in effect prior to the effective date of this Code, and provided that construction is begun within six months of the effective date and diligently pursued to completion, said sign may be completed in accordance with the approved plans on the basis of which the permit has been issued, subject thereafter, if applicable, to the provisions regarding nonconforming signs.
Relationship to Other Regulations. This Code recognizes that there are other regulations that pertain to signage. Where any provision of this Chapter covers the same subject matter as other regulations, the more restrictive regulation shall apply.
Measurements and Calculations. The regulations for measurements and calculations for this Chapter are set out in Division 14.1.100, Measurements.

Signs that Require a Sign Permit.

No sign less than two feet by two feet in size shall require a permit.
All signs set out in Division 7.2.200, Permanent Signs.

Exempted Signs.

The following signs shall be exempt from the requirements of this Chapter:
1. Flags or emblems of a governmental or of a political, civic, philanthropic, educational, or religious organization on private property;
2. Signs of a duly constituted governmental body, including traffic or similar regulatory signs, legal notices, warnings at railroad crossings, and other instructional or regulatory signs having to do with health, safety, parking, swimming, dumping, etc.;
3. Memorial signs and tablets displayed on private property;
4. Small signs, not exceeding three square feet in area, displayed on private property for the convenience of the public, including signs to identify entrance and exit drives, parking areas, one-way drives, restrooms, freight entrances, and other similar signs; and
5. Scoreboards in athletic stadiums.
6. Temporary displays commonly associated with any national, local, or religious holiday or celebration for a duration, not to exceed 90 days per holiday.
The following signs are exempt from a required permit but shall comply with all of the other regulations imposed by this Chapter:
1. Nameplate signs not exceeding two square feet in gross area accessory to a single-family or duplex dwelling;
2. Bulletin board signs not exceeding 15 square feet in gross area accessory to a church, school, or public or nonprofit institution;
3. Temporary, noncommercial signs not exceeding 32 square feet in area.
4. No temporary noncommercial signs shall be placed or erected:
  1. In or on the public right-of-way;
  2. In or on any private property without the express permission of the owner or occupant of such property.

Signs That Do Not Require a Sign Permit.

Address signs;
Flags;
Holiday decorations;
Integral signs;
Interior signs;
Official and legal notice;
Traffic control signs;
Way-finding signs; and
Temporary signs.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.101 General Design Guidelines

Generally.

The construction of all signs shall be authorized upon the basis of an application and a permit to be approved by the Planning Inspection Enforcement Office, and no permit shall be issued except upon the approval of plans and specifications supplied with the application.
No sign shall be maintained at any location where, by reason of its position, size, shape, or color, it may obstruct, impair, obscure, interfere with the view of or be confused with any traffic or railroad control sign, signal or device, or where it may interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
Any sign located within three feet of a driveway or within a parking area shall have its lowest elevation at least nine feet above the curb level; however, in no event shall any sign be placed so as to project over any vehicular traveled public way.
All advertising or display signs to be erected or hung upon poles or other permanent structures, designed or built for the purpose, other than billboards or panel posters, shall be metal or other noncombustible materials. It shall be unlawful to locate, construct, or maintain any permanent sign upon or within the street parking adjacent to any roadway or sidewalk in the City; provided that temporary or movable signs may be placed in or over streets, sidewalks, or street parking as provided in this Chapter.
All signs shall be constructed in a substantial manner to withstand wind pressure. All signs shall be constructed without moveable parts and shall be fastened or anchored not to swing or otherwise be dislodged from their moorings.

Placement. The placement of signs on buildings shall be clearly visible and in logical locations where most patrons would expect to see a sign. Appropriate sign locations:

Respect Public Right-of-Way. Signage shall not encroach into right-of-way maintained by the City, unless there is a license agreement with the City.
Place within Structural Boundaries. Signs shall not project above roof lines or the edges of building walls unless otherwise approved by the Zoning Administrator..

Illumination. Well-designed signs are appropriately illuminated with careful consideration as to the type and strength of illumination.

Shield the Light Source. The light source, whether internal or external, shall be shielded from view or directed so that the light intensity or brightness is not objectionable to surrounding areas. Signs shall feature the minimum level required for nighttime readability. Ground-mounted external flood lighting must be shielded and properly placed and directed to avoid direct visibility of the directed light to passing motorists.
Sign Electrical Raceways and Conduits:
1. Electrical transformer boxes and raceways should be concealed from public view. If a raceway cannot be mounted internally behind the finished exterior wall, the exposed metal surfaces of the raceway should be finished to match the background wall or integrated into the overall sign design.
2. If raceways are necessary, they should be as thin and narrow as possible and should never extend in width or height beyond the area of the sign’s lettering or graphics.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.102 Prohibited Signs and Design Elements

Generally. This Item identifies signs and sign elements that are not allowed anywhere in the City.

Prohibited Signs.

The following signs are prohibited in all areas of the City:
1. Animated or moving signs that are visible from public street right-of-way, including any moving, swinging, rotating, scintillating, fluctuating, or otherwise animated light (except time and temperature signs and those as allowed in Section 7.2.105, Message Centers). These signs include pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners, or other similarly moving devices, whether or not part of any sign.
2. Abandoned signs.
3. Roof signs.
4. Portable signs, except as specifically permitted in Section 7.2.301, Standards for Temporary Signs by Type.
5. Signs placed on public property, except those placed by the public entity and subdivision identification monuments or subdivision entrance signs when located within the subdivision limits on property that is commonly owned and subject to covenants, conditions, and restrictions. Removal of signs on public property include:
  1. Any unauthorized temporary sign placed upon public property including public right-of-way, or upon any lamppost, public utility pole, or traffic utility device located within the public right-of-way is declared to be a public nuisance. The Zoning Administrator or any other individual authorized by this Code shall cause its removal in the manner provided by this Chapter.
  2. Any temporary sign, bill, advertisement, or notice posted or placed on public property in violation of this Chapter may be torn down or removed by any law enforcement officer, any Planning Inspection Enforcement personnel, or any personnel of Public Works.
  3. Any temporary sign removed pursuant to Subsection B.1.e.ii., above, which is six square feet or larger and composed entirely of metal or wood shall be kept by the Planning Inspection Enforcement Office or other department designated to remove such sign for a period of 20 days, after which it may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate by the City. All other signs removed pursuant to to Subsection B.1.e.ii., above, may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate by the City.
6. Off-premise advertising signs that are located on building roofs or walls.
7. Stacked off-premise advertising signs.
8. Signs that are a traffic hazard because they simulate or imitate (in size, color, lettering, or design) any traffic sign, signal, or device as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
9. Under no circumstances shall any sign be placed in the site distance triangle (see Section 6.2.207, Sight Triangle Requirements).
10. Any non-governmental sign that is located in, upon, or over any public right-of-way, except:
  1. Projecting signs in the Mixed Use (M-U) District and Central Business (C-3) District, as applicable;
  2. Traffic control signs installed by a governmental entity;
  3. Banners posted or approved by the City on utility or light poles;
  4. Signs constructed by the City that implement a way-finding program; and
  5. Signs affixed to the transit system shelters and bus benches.
11. No sign shall be attached to a tree or utility pole, whether on public or private property.
12. Signs that violate City, county, state, or federal laws.
13. Signs not expressly allowed by this Code.
Other signs may be prohibited in certain districts.

Prohibited Obstructions. In no event shall a sign, whether temporary or permanent, obstruct:

Features of the building or site that are necessary for public safety, including Fire Department connections (FDCs), standpipes, and fire hydrants; or
Be erected where, by reason of the position, shape, or color, it interferes with or obstructs the view of a sight distance triangle.

Prohibited Mounts. No (snipe) sign shall be placed on public property, whether temporary or permanent, or shall be posted, installed, or mounted on any of the following locations:

On trees, shrubs, or landscaping of any type.
On utility poles or light poles.
On utility cabinets, except signs posted by the utility that are necessary for public safety or identification of the facility by the utility provider.

Prohibited Design Elements.

The following elements shall not be used as an element of signs or sign structures, whether temporary or permanent:
1. Sound, smoke, or odor emitters.
2. Stacked products (e.g., tires, soft drink cases, bagged soil or mulch).
The following elements shall not be used as an element of signs or sign structures, whether temporary or permanent, which are visible from public street right-of-way:
1. Flags, banners, or comparable elements that are designed to move in the wind, but only when such elements are attached to another sign type (e.g., flags may be attached to flagpoles, but may not be attached to monument signs).
2. Spinning or moving parts.
3. Motor vehicles, unless:
  1. The vehicles are functional, used as motor vehicles, and have current registration and tags; and
  2. The display of signage is incidental to the motor vehicle use (see Figure 7.2.102, Vehicle Signs).
4. Semi-trailers, shipping containers, or portable storage units, unless:
  1. The trailers, containers, or portable storage units are functional, used for their primary storage purpose, and, if subject to registration, have current registration and tags;
  2. The display of signage is incidental to the use for temporary storage, pick-up, or delivery; and
  3. The semi-trailer is parked in a designated loading area or on a construction site at which it is being used for deliveries or storage.

Figure 7.2.102
Vehicle Signs

Prohibited Content.
1. The following content is prohibited without reference to the viewpoint of the individual speaker:
  1. Text or graphics of an indecent or immoral nature and harmful to minors;
  2. Text or graphics that advertise unlawful activity;
  3. Text or graphics that are obscene, fighting words, defamation, incitement to imminent lawless action, or true threats; or
  4. Text or graphics that present a clear and present danger due to their potential confusion with traffic control signs or signs that provide public safety information (for example, signs that use the words or comparable words, phrases, symbols, or characters in such a manner as to imply a safety hazard that does not exist).
2. The narrow classifications of content that are prohibited by this Item are either not protected by the United States or Kansas Constitutions, or are offered limited protection that is outweighed by the substantial governmental interests in protecting the public safety and welfare. It is the intent of the City Commission that each paragraph of this Item be individually severable in the event that a court of competent jurisdiction is to hold one or more of them to be inconsistent with the United States or Kansas Constitutions.
Removal of Prohibited Signs. Except for signs that constitute a safety hazard, persons having a prohibited sign shall be notified by certified mail, return receipt requested, and informed of their right, within ten business days of the time of receipt of the certified notice, to schedule a meeting with the Zoning Administrator, or designee, to discuss the prohibited sign and the procedures for conforming with the regulations set out in this Chapter. Failure by the owner of the prohibited sign to appear at the scheduled meeting shall not be reason for delaying removal of the prohibited sign. After proper notice, prohibited signs shall be removed within 30 calendar days of the time of receipt of the certified notice.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.103 Unsafe Signs

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.104 Illumination of Signs

Generally. All signs, if external illumination is used, the source of illumination shall be shielded.

Color. Lighted signs in direct vision of a traffic signal shall not emulate traffic control signals.

Code Compliance. Illuminated signs shall be constructed in accordance with all applicable building and electrical codes.

Electrical Service. When electrical service is provided to a sign, all such electrical service shall be placed underground if practicable.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.105 Electronic Message Centers and Changeable Copy Signs

Message Centers. Electronic message, LED, and electronic animated signs, also known as "electronic message centers" may be incorporated into signage as follows:

Design Requirements.
1. Electronic message centers are only permitted as an integral element of a monument sign, pole sign, pylon sign, or marquee sign, which enclose the message center component on all sides with a finish of brick, stone, stucco, powder coated (or comparably finished) metal, or the surface of the sign face.
2. No sign structure that includes a changeable copy sign may also include an electronic message center.
Dimming Controls. No electronic message center shall be erected or installed without dimming controls to ensure the sign is appropriately dimmed at night. Acceptable dimming controls include automated light sensing devices (photocells) and/or programmable controls that are set by the user to automatically dim the sign at night. The maximum nighttime brightness and/or light intensity shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over ambient light conditions.
Abutting Residential. Signs subject to the requirements of this Subsection shall be shaded or adjusted wherever necessary to avoid bright light upon property in any residential district or upon any public street. Any message center located on a lot adjacent to or across the street from any residential district, and which is visible within 200 feet of any residential district, shall not be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Signs may not be illuminated unless so designated to permit same.
Placement Standards. Electronic message centers:
1. Are prohibited in the Agriculture (A-L), Residential Multi-Family (R-M), and Neighborhood Shopping (C-1) Districts; and in the NC.1 and NC.2 Sub-Districts;
2. May be permitted with approval of an exception permit for public/institutional, nonresidential, or mixed uses that exist as of the effective date of this Code in the Residential Suburban (R-S) and Residential General (R-G) Districts or in the NC.4 or NC.5 Sub-Districts, subject to the standards of this Chapter;
3. Shall not be permitted if there is a nonconforming electronic message center, owned by the same person, firm, or corporation, within 1,320 feet of the proposed location, unless the nonconforming sign becomes conforming; and
Operational Standards.
1. Display. Electronic message centers shall:
  1. Contain a default design that will freeze the sign in one position with no more illumination than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light if a malfunction occurs.
  2. Off Premise message centers shall display messages for a period of not less than eight seconds and use transitions or frame effects must be accomplished within an interval of twoseconds or less.
  3. Not include audio, pyrotechnic, or bluecasting (bluetooth advertising) components.
2. Lighting. Message centers shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light when measured from a specified distance. This measurement calculates the illumination of the sign and incorporates a scientific formula to ensure consistency of the measurement when applied to electronic message centers of varying sizes and resolutions. The instrument to measure the illuminance of electronic message centers shall be an illuminance meter more commonly referred to as a lux or foot-candle meter. The illuminance meter must have the ability to provide a reading up to two decimal places and must be set to read foot-candles. The method to calculate the appropriate distance from which the illuminance shall be measured is the square root of the area of the message center times 100.
3. Spacing. Message centers shall have a minimum spacing of:
  1. 50 feet between the electronic message center and the property line of any residential use or district set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses. The distance shall be calculated as the shortest measurable distance between the nearest point of the sign to the edge of the residential property line or district or to the property line of an institutional use.
  2. 400 feet between electronic message centers on the same property, with a maximum of no more than two electronic message centers per any same street frontage. The distance shall be calculated as the shortest measurable distance between the nearest points of the signs.
Pre-Date this Code. Any electronic message center in existence before the effective date of this Code which does not conform to the dimming control requirements of Subsection B.2, above, shall be required to modify such electronic message center to comply with the dimming control within one year of the effective date of this Code.

Changeable Copy Signs. Changeable copy signs may be incorporated into signage as follows:

Design Requirements.
1. Changeable copy signs are only permitted as an integral element of a monument, pylon, pole or marquee signs, which enclose the changeable copy area on all sides with a finish of brick, stone, stucco, powder coated (or comparably finished) metal, or the surface of the sign face. Gaps between the changeable copy area and the surround are permitted to accommodate locks and hinges for a cover for the changeable copy area, but only to the extent necessary for such locks and hinges to operate.
2. Changeable copy signs, including their frames, shall make up not more than 50 percent of the sign area of a monument sign, marquee sign, pole sign, or pylon sign. The balance of the sign area shall utilize permanently affixed letters or symbols.
Lettering of changeable copy signs shall be of a single style and shall be of uniform color and size.

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.106 Sign Maintenance

Generally. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times.

Preservation. All signs, together with all their supports, braces, connections, anchors, and any addition or extension thereto shall be kept in repair and in proper state of preservation.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.107 Removal of Signs

Removal of Certain Signs.

Any sign, now or hereafter existing which has not advertised a bona fide business being conducted, or a product being sold for a period of six months or more, and after written notification from the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee, shall have all of the message section and advertising taken down and removed by the property owner upon which the sign is located. In addition, any sign, now or hereafter, existing which has not advertised a bona fide business being conducted, or a product being sold for a period of one year or more, and after written notification from the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee, shall be removed in its entirety, including the structure to grade.
Notwithstanding Subsection A.1. above, in cases of emergency, the City may cause the immediate removal of a dangerous or defective sign without notice.
Failure of any person to comply with this Subsection shall be subject to the enforcement under the abatement regulations set out in Division 13.1.200, Enforcement, including all costs associated with fines and fees.

Illegal Sign Removal. The Zoning Administrator may, without paying compensation, remove any illegal sign placed in the public right-of-way.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.201 Attached Signs

Residential Uses. The standards of Table 7.2.201A, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts, applies to the residential zoning districts set out in the table.

Table 7.2.201A Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Awning or Canopy Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	20 sf.	2 sf.
Illumination	None
Allowances	May not be used in combination with any other sign
Other Limitations	The sign shall be attached to or affixed flat against the front street wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	Yes, if specified as part of a limited use permit as set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses
Hanging Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	12 sf. per single-family and duplex unit 0.5 per each multi-family unit
Illumination	None
Allowances	May be used only for single- , two- , and multi-family dwellings; no other signs allowed
Other Limitations	The sign shall be affixed flat against the wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	No
Wall Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Window Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Maximum Signable Area Ratio	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--

Table 7.2.201A Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Awning or Canopy Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	20 sf.	2 sf.
Illumination	None
Allowances	May not be used in combination with any other sign
Other Limitations	The sign shall be attached to or affixed flat against the front street wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	Yes, if specified as part of a limited use permit as set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses
Hanging Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	12 sf. per single-family and duplex unit 0.5 per each multi-family unit
Illumination	None
Allowances	May be used only for single- , two- , and multi-family dwellings; no other signs allowed
Other Limitations	The sign shall be affixed flat against the wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	No
Wall Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Window Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Maximum Signable Area Ratio	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--

Nonresidential Uses. The standards of Table 7.2.201B, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts, applies to the nonresidential zoning districts set out in the table.

Table 7.2.201B Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3¹	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Awning or Canopy Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per storefront for a mixed use or multi-tenant building
Maximum Sign Area	50% of total square footage of front awning area
Maximum Clearance	8 ft. above grade
Illumination	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a wall sign, plus 1 detached sign (excluding temporary signs set out in Division 7.2.300, Temporary Signs)
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		2 sf.	--		2 sf.	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Hanging Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per building
Maximum Sign Area	6 sf.
Maximum Height	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	Indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a awning or canopy
Other Limitations	May not extend within 2 ft. of the curb line May be suspended under a marquee sign in the C-2 and C-3 districts Not allowed if a projecting sign is used
Sign Permit Required	No
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per street facing facade
Maximum Sign Area	--	50 sf. per side; 100 sf. total
Maximum Height	--	5 ft., excluding any top ornament supported directly by the marquee or awning
Minimum Clearance	--	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	--	Down lighting; only the sign area containing the letters or logos may be illuminated with interior lighting
Allowances	--	May be used in lieu of an awning or canopy sign, hanging sign, or a projecting sign.
Other Limitations	--	1. May not project more than 8 ft. from the building; may require an encroachment permit 2. Sign may be on up to three sides of a marquee
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per business					--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--	8 ft.; only to within 1 ft. of curb line					--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--	8 ft. above grade; including accessory lighting fixtures					--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--	Street right-of-way = 14 ft. above grade Other vehicle ways = 9 ft. above grade					--
Maximum Sign Area	--	32 sf.					--
Illumination	--	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only					--
Other Limitations	--	All projecting signs shall be securely attached to the building or structure by bolts, anchors, chains, or galvanized steel guys or cables and shall not be attached to parapet walls in any manner unless such walls are reinforced with steel and designed to support other than the weight of such wall					--
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes					--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		See residential districts	--		See	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		No	--		No	--
Wall Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	Unlimited for all districts
Maximum Sign Area	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign
Illumination	Yes
Allowances	May be used in combination with awning or canopy or hanging signs
Other Limitations	Not project more than 24 in. from the wall or 3 ft. above the wall All wall display signs shall not extend beyond the top and the ends of the wall surface to which they are attached. Wall signs shall maintain a minimum distance of one foot from the lease line of the occupant's portion of the facade. All wall signs shall be securely attached to the building wall by means of metal anchors, bolts, or screws. No such sign shall be fastened by nails, staples, or screws into wooden blocks, or nailing strips built into the masonry
Sign Permit Required	Yes

Table 7.2.201B Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3¹	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Awning or Canopy Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per storefront for a mixed use or multi-tenant building
Maximum Sign Area	50% of total square footage of front awning area
Maximum Clearance	8 ft. above grade
Illumination	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a wall sign, plus 1 detached sign (excluding temporary signs set out in Division 7.2.300, Temporary Signs)
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		2 sf.	--		2 sf.	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Hanging Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per building
Maximum Sign Area	6 sf.
Maximum Height	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	Indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a awning or canopy
Other Limitations	May not extend within 2 ft. of the curb line May be suspended under a marquee sign in the C-2 and C-3 districts Not allowed if a projecting sign is used
Sign Permit Required	No
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per street facing facade
Maximum Sign Area	--	50 sf. per side; 100 sf. total
Maximum Height	--	5 ft., excluding any top ornament supported directly by the marquee or awning
Minimum Clearance	--	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	--	Down lighting; only the sign area containing the letters or logos may be illuminated with interior lighting
Allowances	--	May be used in lieu of an awning or canopy sign, hanging sign, or a projecting sign.
Other Limitations	--	1. May not project more than 8 ft. from the building; may require an encroachment permit 2. Sign may be on up to three sides of a marquee
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per business					--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--	8 ft.; only to within 1 ft. of curb line					--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--	8 ft. above grade; including accessory lighting fixtures					--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--	Street right-of-way = 14 ft. above grade Other vehicle ways = 9 ft. above grade					--
Maximum Sign Area	--	32 sf.					--
Illumination	--	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only					--
Other Limitations	--	All projecting signs shall be securely attached to the building or structure by bolts, anchors, chains, or galvanized steel guys or cables and shall not be attached to parapet walls in any manner unless such walls are reinforced with steel and designed to support other than the weight of such wall					--
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes					--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		See residential districts	--		See	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		No	--		No	--
Wall Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	Unlimited for all districts
Maximum Sign Area	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign
Illumination	Yes
Allowances	May be used in combination with awning or canopy or hanging signs
Other Limitations	Not project more than 24 in. from the wall or 3 ft. above the wall All wall display signs shall not extend beyond the top and the ends of the wall surface to which they are attached. Wall signs shall maintain a minimum distance of one foot from the lease line of the occupant's portion of the facade. All wall signs shall be securely attached to the building wall by means of metal anchors, bolts, or screws. No such sign shall be fastened by nails, staples, or screws into wooden blocks, or nailing strips built into the masonry
Sign Permit Required	Yes

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.202 Detached Signs

Table 7.2.202A Permissible Detached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Separation	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Directional/Informational Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Height	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Monument (Ground) Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--				1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	--				36 sf.
Maximum Sign Height	--				4 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	--				5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	--				75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--				Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	--				Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Height	--
Minimum Setback/Location	--
Minimum Spacing	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202A Permissible Detached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Separation	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Directional/Informational Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Height	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Monument (Ground) Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--				1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	--				36 sf.
Maximum Sign Height	--				4 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	--				5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	--				75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--				Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	--				Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Height	--
Minimum Setback/Location	--
Minimum Spacing	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202B Permissible Detached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--			1 per property; not allowed if two or more on-site monument (ground) or pole signs totaling 250 sf. facing a travel direction within 35 ft. of street right-of-way		--
Maximum Sign Area	--			200 sf.		--
Maximum Height	--			50 ft.		--
Minimum Separation	--			500 ft. or more (facing the same direction of travel) if an off-site billboard sign is greater than 200 sf. and 30 ft.; all others shall not be less than 200 ft. apart when facing the same direction of travel		--
Minimum Setback	--			Per the zoning district in which the sign is located		--
Illumination	--			Indirect only		--
Other Limitations	--			Applicable only within the City limits. See Section 7.2.402, Off-Site Billboards		--
Sign Permit Required	--			Yes		--
Directional/Informational Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	One per entrance and exit
Maximum Height	10 ft.			10 ft.		10 ft.	10 ft.
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	3 sf.	6 sf.	3 sf.	8 sf.		6 sf.	8 sf.
Maximum Sign Area	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.		40 sf.	40 sf.
Minimum Setback	None
Illumination	Internal or External
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Monument (Ground) Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage			1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	36 sf.	100 sf. max.	36 sf. max.	100 sf. max.		36 sf. max.	36 sf. (see allowances)
Maximum Sign Height	8 ft.	10 ft.	8 ft.	12 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	2 maximum	1 maximum	2 maximum
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max. per sign
Maximum Sign Height	--	30 ft, however for each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.	30 ft.	For each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.
Minimum Setback/Location	--	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height	None	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height
Minimum Spacing	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External
Allowances	--	--	--	--
Other Limitations	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(G)
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes	Yes	Yes
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202B Permissible Detached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--			1 per property; not allowed if two or more on-site monument (ground) or pole signs totaling 250 sf. facing a travel direction within 35 ft. of street right-of-way		--
Maximum Sign Area	--			200 sf.		--
Maximum Height	--			50 ft.		--
Minimum Separation	--			500 ft. or more (facing the same direction of travel) if an off-site billboard sign is greater than 200 sf. and 30 ft.; all others shall not be less than 200 ft. apart when facing the same direction of travel		--
Minimum Setback	--			Per the zoning district in which the sign is located		--
Illumination	--			Indirect only		--
Other Limitations	--			Applicable only within the City limits. See Section 7.2.402, Off-Site Billboards		--
Sign Permit Required	--			Yes		--
Directional/Informational Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	One per entrance and exit
Maximum Height	10 ft.			10 ft.		10 ft.	10 ft.
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	3 sf.	6 sf.	3 sf.	8 sf.		6 sf.	8 sf.
Maximum Sign Area	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.		40 sf.	40 sf.
Minimum Setback	None
Illumination	Internal or External
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Monument (Ground) Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage			1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	36 sf.	100 sf. max.	36 sf. max.	100 sf. max.		36 sf. max.	36 sf. (see allowances)
Maximum Sign Height	8 ft.	10 ft.	8 ft.	12 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	2 maximum	1 maximum	2 maximum
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max. per sign
Maximum Sign Height	--	30 ft, however for each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.	30 ft.	For each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.
Minimum Setback/Location	--	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height	None	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height
Minimum Spacing	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External
Allowances	--	--	--	--
Other Limitations	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(G)
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes	Yes	Yes
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.301 Standards for Temporary Signs by Type

Generally. This Section sets out which temporary signs are allowed in each zoning district, and the size, height, placement, and timing standards that apply to them.

Findings Related to Temporary Signs. The City Commission finds that:

There is a need and warrant for the display of signage on a one-time, limited duration, and/or intermittent basis to aid businesses and other public or private entities in communicating to their customers, patrons, clients, or to the general public;
The regulation of temporary signage is a substantial governmental interest as means for preserving the quality and integrity of the visual environs in a manner that reflects positively on the community and its attractiveness as a place to visit and live; and
It is reasonable to regulate the number, size, height, location, and duration of signs that are placed on property on a temporary basis so as not to devalue or to lessen the impact or importance of permanent signage.

Standards.

Relative to Permanent Signs. Signs that meet the standards of this Section are exempt from the standards for permanent attached and freestanding signs as set out in Division 7.2.200, Permanent Signs, and are not counted in the total square footage of signage allowed on any particular property or site. Signs that do not meet the standards of this Section are subject to the standards for permanent signs or those that are exempted by Sec. 7.1.102, Application.
Illumination. Temporary signs may only have external illumination.
Temporary Banners. Temporary banners are subject to the following regulations:
1. In the A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G districts, temporary banners exceeding a cumulative area of four square feet are prohibited. In the R-M district, temporary banners are allowed up to a maximum cumulative area of 32 square feet.
2. In the C-1, C-2, C-3, I-1, I-2, M-U, and P-I districts, temporary banners are allowed up to a maximum cumulative area of 32 square feet per property or, on a multi-use or multi-tenant property, per storefront. On single use sites that front more than one arterial street, the maximum cumulative area may be increased to 64 square feet. Only one banner may be hung on each building wall or on each separate structure. Any additional banners, or banners larger than 32 square feet in size, must meet the standards for permanent signs in this Code, as follows:
  1. In no case may a single use site or a storefront in a multi-use or multi-tenant property have more than two (2) temporary banners.
  2. A temporary banner may be displayed up to four times per calendar year with each display period not exceeding 30 days for a maximum duration of 120 days per calendar year.
  3. Banners that do not meet the regulations of this subparagraph, must meet the standards for permanent signs.
Temporary Wall or Fascia Signs.
1. In lieu of a temporary banner, one temporary wall sign is allowed per street frontage in the C-1, C-2, I-1, and I-2 districts.
2. Temporary wall signs may be up to 32 square feet in area.
3. Temporary wall signs may not extend above roof lines.
4. Extensions into the right-of-way are prohibited.
5. A temporary wall sign may be displayed no longer than 90 days per calendar year.
Temporary Freestanding or Portable Signs. One temporary freestanding sign is allowed per property in the C-1, C-2, and C-3 districts, which is not counted in the total square footage of permanent signage allowed on the site.
1. Temporary freestanding signs may be up to 12 square feet in area.
2. Extensions into the right-of-way are prohibited, except as permitted in the C-3 district.
3. A temporary freestanding sign may be displayed four times per calendar year with each display period not exceeding 30 days for a maximum duration of 120 days per calendar year.
4. In the C-3 district, a temporary freestanding or portable sign may be displayed daily provided it is removed and stored indoors at the close of business, or 10 p.m. for 24-hour businesses.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.302 Prevention of Visual Clutter in Principal Corridors

Corridor Setback Requirement.

No temporary sign shall be placed within the right-of-way (as provided in Subsection 7.2.102, Prohibited Signs and Design Elements), or within 30 feet of the edge of pavement (whichever creates a greater setback from the edge of pavement), along arterial streets or highways.
The setback requirement of this Section shall not apply in the following circumstances:
1. To the front yard of any lot that is used or zoned for single-family residential purposes, when the front lot line is the edge of the right-of-way of a corridor subject to the requirements of Subsection B.1., above.
2. Where an intervening private fence, wall, or other structure clearly delineates the boundary of private property outside of the prescribed public right-of-way, in which case the required setback shall include only the area up to and including the outside surface of such private fence, wall, or other structure.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.401 Central Business (C-3) District

Figure 7.2.401
Central Business (C-3) District Signage

Attached Signage. The standards for attached signs set out in Table 7.2.201, Permissible Attached Sign Types, are applicable in the C-3 district.
Temporary Signage. The standards for temporary signs set out in Table 7.2.301, Temporary Sign Types, are applicable in the C-3 district.
Projecting Signs. One projection sign is permitted per storefront provided the sign is no larger than two feet by three feet (2’ x 3’) in size. A projection sign shall be supported by a decorative chain or bracket, designed and constructed with craftsmanship and detail. The sign shall have a minimum clearance of nine feet for pedestrians. No projecting sign shall project more than eight feet from the face of the building or structure and no closer than one foot minimum from the curb line; it shall have a minimum vehicular clearance of 14 feet above the vehicular traveled way. Any such projecting sign shall be oriented so that the face of the sign is perpendicular to the building façade from which it projects.
Business (Directory) and Upper Floor Signs. For two-story multi-tenant buildings, one small directory sign with nameplates of the individual tenants is permitted on the ground floor. The maximum size of the directory is two square feet. The design of the sign shall be integrated with and compliment the building design.
Menu Holders. A freestanding menu holder is permitted on the exterior storefront of a restaurant. Such holder shall be limited to the size of two pages of the menu for which lettering shall not exceed one inch in height. The menu holder shall not be located so as to cause a safety hazard for pedestrians. The menu holder shall not be used for additional signage.

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.402 Off-Site Billboards

Generally. The following Section applies to off-site billboard signs.

A detailed graphic presentation of the subject property site, including property parcel dimensions;
The location of any other buildings or structures on the site;
The location, size, and type of any other monument (ground) signs on the site;
The distance of the proposed sign from any buildings, structures, or other signs on the site; and
A detailed representation of the proposed sign, including sign structure and sign face dimensions, total height of the sign, and any related appurtenances such as catwalks.

Off-Site Billboard Sign Regulations.

Lot frontage cannot be less than 150 feet.
Cannot be located closer than 500 feet to a park/recreation area, place of worship, museum, or local, state, or national registered historical monument.
May be erected within 500 feet of any such park or recreation areas when such off-site signs are located in athletic field facilities owned or operated by a public body.
All billboard signs are subject to limitations and regulations set out in the State of Kansas Department of Transportation Highway Advertising Control Act of 1972, amended from time to time.
No off-site billboard sign shall be erected that would obscure the view of any on-site sign. This shall be determined by establishing a sight point at the centerline of the street 150 feet in either direction, then no on-site sign within 150 feet of the off-site sign shall be obscured from view.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Hays City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 7

Signs

ARTICLE 7.2 SIGNS

Sec. 7.1.101 Purpose and Intent

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.1.102 Application

Application.

Generally. All construction, relocation, enlargement, alteration, and modification of signs within the City shall conform to the requirements of this Chapter and all state and federal regulations concerning signs and advertising, and applicable building and electrical codes as adopted by the City, as may be amended from time to time.
Construction of Chapter. Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to authorize any projection or encroachment upon any street, alley, or public way in the City that is prohibited by law or other ordinance, nor to express or imply any permission, license, or permit for any structure to encroach upon or project within the lines of any street, alley, or public way which shall not be revocable by order of the Planning Commission. All structures or portions of structures previously erected or located which project beyond the street or building line shall be removed or reconstructed in accordance with a resolution of the Planning Commission as provided by law or City ordinances.
Permit Required. No person, firm, or corporation shall erect, construct, install, demolish, convert, relocate, enlarge, repair, modify, or alter any sign within the City limits without a sign permit having been obtained in conformance with this Code.
Signs Permitted Before Effective Date. If a permit for a sign has been issued in accordance with all City ordinances in effect prior to the effective date of this Code, and provided that construction is begun within six months of the effective date and diligently pursued to completion, said sign may be completed in accordance with the approved plans on the basis of which the permit has been issued, subject thereafter, if applicable, to the provisions regarding nonconforming signs.
Relationship to Other Regulations. This Code recognizes that there are other regulations that pertain to signage. Where any provision of this Chapter covers the same subject matter as other regulations, the more restrictive regulation shall apply.
Measurements and Calculations. The regulations for measurements and calculations for this Chapter are set out in Division 14.1.100, Measurements.

Signs that Require a Sign Permit.

No sign less than two feet by two feet in size shall require a permit.
All signs set out in Division 7.2.200, Permanent Signs.

Exempted Signs.

The following signs shall be exempt from the requirements of this Chapter:
1. Flags or emblems of a governmental or of a political, civic, philanthropic, educational, or religious organization on private property;
2. Signs of a duly constituted governmental body, including traffic or similar regulatory signs, legal notices, warnings at railroad crossings, and other instructional or regulatory signs having to do with health, safety, parking, swimming, dumping, etc.;
3. Memorial signs and tablets displayed on private property;
4. Small signs, not exceeding three square feet in area, displayed on private property for the convenience of the public, including signs to identify entrance and exit drives, parking areas, one-way drives, restrooms, freight entrances, and other similar signs; and
5. Scoreboards in athletic stadiums.
6. Temporary displays commonly associated with any national, local, or religious holiday or celebration for a duration, not to exceed 90 days per holiday.
The following signs are exempt from a required permit but shall comply with all of the other regulations imposed by this Chapter:
1. Nameplate signs not exceeding two square feet in gross area accessory to a single-family or duplex dwelling;
2. Bulletin board signs not exceeding 15 square feet in gross area accessory to a church, school, or public or nonprofit institution;
3. Temporary, noncommercial signs not exceeding 32 square feet in area.
4. No temporary noncommercial signs shall be placed or erected:
  1. In or on the public right-of-way;
  2. In or on any private property without the express permission of the owner or occupant of such property.

Signs That Do Not Require a Sign Permit.

Address signs;
Flags;
Holiday decorations;
Integral signs;
Interior signs;
Official and legal notice;
Traffic control signs;
Way-finding signs; and
Temporary signs.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.101 General Design Guidelines

Generally.

The construction of all signs shall be authorized upon the basis of an application and a permit to be approved by the Planning Inspection Enforcement Office, and no permit shall be issued except upon the approval of plans and specifications supplied with the application.
No sign shall be maintained at any location where, by reason of its position, size, shape, or color, it may obstruct, impair, obscure, interfere with the view of or be confused with any traffic or railroad control sign, signal or device, or where it may interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
Any sign located within three feet of a driveway or within a parking area shall have its lowest elevation at least nine feet above the curb level; however, in no event shall any sign be placed so as to project over any vehicular traveled public way.
All advertising or display signs to be erected or hung upon poles or other permanent structures, designed or built for the purpose, other than billboards or panel posters, shall be metal or other noncombustible materials. It shall be unlawful to locate, construct, or maintain any permanent sign upon or within the street parking adjacent to any roadway or sidewalk in the City; provided that temporary or movable signs may be placed in or over streets, sidewalks, or street parking as provided in this Chapter.
All signs shall be constructed in a substantial manner to withstand wind pressure. All signs shall be constructed without moveable parts and shall be fastened or anchored not to swing or otherwise be dislodged from their moorings.

Placement. The placement of signs on buildings shall be clearly visible and in logical locations where most patrons would expect to see a sign. Appropriate sign locations:

Respect Public Right-of-Way. Signage shall not encroach into right-of-way maintained by the City, unless there is a license agreement with the City.
Place within Structural Boundaries. Signs shall not project above roof lines or the edges of building walls unless otherwise approved by the Zoning Administrator..

Illumination. Well-designed signs are appropriately illuminated with careful consideration as to the type and strength of illumination.

Shield the Light Source. The light source, whether internal or external, shall be shielded from view or directed so that the light intensity or brightness is not objectionable to surrounding areas. Signs shall feature the minimum level required for nighttime readability. Ground-mounted external flood lighting must be shielded and properly placed and directed to avoid direct visibility of the directed light to passing motorists.
Sign Electrical Raceways and Conduits:
1. Electrical transformer boxes and raceways should be concealed from public view. If a raceway cannot be mounted internally behind the finished exterior wall, the exposed metal surfaces of the raceway should be finished to match the background wall or integrated into the overall sign design.
2. If raceways are necessary, they should be as thin and narrow as possible and should never extend in width or height beyond the area of the sign’s lettering or graphics.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.102 Prohibited Signs and Design Elements

Generally. This Item identifies signs and sign elements that are not allowed anywhere in the City.

Prohibited Signs.

The following signs are prohibited in all areas of the City:
1. Animated or moving signs that are visible from public street right-of-way, including any moving, swinging, rotating, scintillating, fluctuating, or otherwise animated light (except time and temperature signs and those as allowed in Section 7.2.105, Message Centers). These signs include pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners, or other similarly moving devices, whether or not part of any sign.
2. Abandoned signs.
3. Roof signs.
4. Portable signs, except as specifically permitted in Section 7.2.301, Standards for Temporary Signs by Type.
5. Signs placed on public property, except those placed by the public entity and subdivision identification monuments or subdivision entrance signs when located within the subdivision limits on property that is commonly owned and subject to covenants, conditions, and restrictions. Removal of signs on public property include:
  1. Any unauthorized temporary sign placed upon public property including public right-of-way, or upon any lamppost, public utility pole, or traffic utility device located within the public right-of-way is declared to be a public nuisance. The Zoning Administrator or any other individual authorized by this Code shall cause its removal in the manner provided by this Chapter.
  2. Any temporary sign, bill, advertisement, or notice posted or placed on public property in violation of this Chapter may be torn down or removed by any law enforcement officer, any Planning Inspection Enforcement personnel, or any personnel of Public Works.
  3. Any temporary sign removed pursuant to Subsection B.1.e.ii., above, which is six square feet or larger and composed entirely of metal or wood shall be kept by the Planning Inspection Enforcement Office or other department designated to remove such sign for a period of 20 days, after which it may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate by the City. All other signs removed pursuant to to Subsection B.1.e.ii., above, may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate by the City.
6. Off-premise advertising signs that are located on building roofs or walls.
7. Stacked off-premise advertising signs.
8. Signs that are a traffic hazard because they simulate or imitate (in size, color, lettering, or design) any traffic sign, signal, or device as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
9. Under no circumstances shall any sign be placed in the site distance triangle (see Section 6.2.207, Sight Triangle Requirements).
10. Any non-governmental sign that is located in, upon, or over any public right-of-way, except:
  1. Projecting signs in the Mixed Use (M-U) District and Central Business (C-3) District, as applicable;
  2. Traffic control signs installed by a governmental entity;
  3. Banners posted or approved by the City on utility or light poles;
  4. Signs constructed by the City that implement a way-finding program; and
  5. Signs affixed to the transit system shelters and bus benches.
11. No sign shall be attached to a tree or utility pole, whether on public or private property.
12. Signs that violate City, county, state, or federal laws.
13. Signs not expressly allowed by this Code.
Other signs may be prohibited in certain districts.

Prohibited Obstructions. In no event shall a sign, whether temporary or permanent, obstruct:

Features of the building or site that are necessary for public safety, including Fire Department connections (FDCs), standpipes, and fire hydrants; or
Be erected where, by reason of the position, shape, or color, it interferes with or obstructs the view of a sight distance triangle.

Prohibited Mounts. No (snipe) sign shall be placed on public property, whether temporary or permanent, or shall be posted, installed, or mounted on any of the following locations:

On trees, shrubs, or landscaping of any type.
On utility poles or light poles.
On utility cabinets, except signs posted by the utility that are necessary for public safety or identification of the facility by the utility provider.

Prohibited Design Elements.

The following elements shall not be used as an element of signs or sign structures, whether temporary or permanent:
1. Sound, smoke, or odor emitters.
2. Stacked products (e.g., tires, soft drink cases, bagged soil or mulch).
The following elements shall not be used as an element of signs or sign structures, whether temporary or permanent, which are visible from public street right-of-way:
1. Flags, banners, or comparable elements that are designed to move in the wind, but only when such elements are attached to another sign type (e.g., flags may be attached to flagpoles, but may not be attached to monument signs).
2. Spinning or moving parts.
3. Motor vehicles, unless:
  1. The vehicles are functional, used as motor vehicles, and have current registration and tags; and
  2. The display of signage is incidental to the motor vehicle use (see Figure 7.2.102, Vehicle Signs).
4. Semi-trailers, shipping containers, or portable storage units, unless:
  1. The trailers, containers, or portable storage units are functional, used for their primary storage purpose, and, if subject to registration, have current registration and tags;
  2. The display of signage is incidental to the use for temporary storage, pick-up, or delivery; and
  3. The semi-trailer is parked in a designated loading area or on a construction site at which it is being used for deliveries or storage.

Figure 7.2.102
Vehicle Signs

Prohibited Content.
1. The following content is prohibited without reference to the viewpoint of the individual speaker:
  1. Text or graphics of an indecent or immoral nature and harmful to minors;
  2. Text or graphics that advertise unlawful activity;
  3. Text or graphics that are obscene, fighting words, defamation, incitement to imminent lawless action, or true threats; or
  4. Text or graphics that present a clear and present danger due to their potential confusion with traffic control signs or signs that provide public safety information (for example, signs that use the words or comparable words, phrases, symbols, or characters in such a manner as to imply a safety hazard that does not exist).
2. The narrow classifications of content that are prohibited by this Item are either not protected by the United States or Kansas Constitutions, or are offered limited protection that is outweighed by the substantial governmental interests in protecting the public safety and welfare. It is the intent of the City Commission that each paragraph of this Item be individually severable in the event that a court of competent jurisdiction is to hold one or more of them to be inconsistent with the United States or Kansas Constitutions.
Removal of Prohibited Signs. Except for signs that constitute a safety hazard, persons having a prohibited sign shall be notified by certified mail, return receipt requested, and informed of their right, within ten business days of the time of receipt of the certified notice, to schedule a meeting with the Zoning Administrator, or designee, to discuss the prohibited sign and the procedures for conforming with the regulations set out in this Chapter. Failure by the owner of the prohibited sign to appear at the scheduled meeting shall not be reason for delaying removal of the prohibited sign. After proper notice, prohibited signs shall be removed within 30 calendar days of the time of receipt of the certified notice.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.103 Unsafe Signs

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.104 Illumination of Signs

Generally. All signs, if external illumination is used, the source of illumination shall be shielded.

Color. Lighted signs in direct vision of a traffic signal shall not emulate traffic control signals.

Code Compliance. Illuminated signs shall be constructed in accordance with all applicable building and electrical codes.

Electrical Service. When electrical service is provided to a sign, all such electrical service shall be placed underground if practicable.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.105 Electronic Message Centers and Changeable Copy Signs

Message Centers. Electronic message, LED, and electronic animated signs, also known as "electronic message centers" may be incorporated into signage as follows:

Design Requirements.
1. Electronic message centers are only permitted as an integral element of a monument sign, pole sign, pylon sign, or marquee sign, which enclose the message center component on all sides with a finish of brick, stone, stucco, powder coated (or comparably finished) metal, or the surface of the sign face.
2. No sign structure that includes a changeable copy sign may also include an electronic message center.
Dimming Controls. No electronic message center shall be erected or installed without dimming controls to ensure the sign is appropriately dimmed at night. Acceptable dimming controls include automated light sensing devices (photocells) and/or programmable controls that are set by the user to automatically dim the sign at night. The maximum nighttime brightness and/or light intensity shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over ambient light conditions.
Abutting Residential. Signs subject to the requirements of this Subsection shall be shaded or adjusted wherever necessary to avoid bright light upon property in any residential district or upon any public street. Any message center located on a lot adjacent to or across the street from any residential district, and which is visible within 200 feet of any residential district, shall not be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Signs may not be illuminated unless so designated to permit same.
Placement Standards. Electronic message centers:
1. Are prohibited in the Agriculture (A-L), Residential Multi-Family (R-M), and Neighborhood Shopping (C-1) Districts; and in the NC.1 and NC.2 Sub-Districts;
2. May be permitted with approval of an exception permit for public/institutional, nonresidential, or mixed uses that exist as of the effective date of this Code in the Residential Suburban (R-S) and Residential General (R-G) Districts or in the NC.4 or NC.5 Sub-Districts, subject to the standards of this Chapter;
3. Shall not be permitted if there is a nonconforming electronic message center, owned by the same person, firm, or corporation, within 1,320 feet of the proposed location, unless the nonconforming sign becomes conforming; and
Operational Standards.
1. Display. Electronic message centers shall:
  1. Contain a default design that will freeze the sign in one position with no more illumination than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light if a malfunction occurs.
  2. Off Premise message centers shall display messages for a period of not less than eight seconds and use transitions or frame effects must be accomplished within an interval of twoseconds or less.
  3. Not include audio, pyrotechnic, or bluecasting (bluetooth advertising) components.
2. Lighting. Message centers shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light when measured from a specified distance. This measurement calculates the illumination of the sign and incorporates a scientific formula to ensure consistency of the measurement when applied to electronic message centers of varying sizes and resolutions. The instrument to measure the illuminance of electronic message centers shall be an illuminance meter more commonly referred to as a lux or foot-candle meter. The illuminance meter must have the ability to provide a reading up to two decimal places and must be set to read foot-candles. The method to calculate the appropriate distance from which the illuminance shall be measured is the square root of the area of the message center times 100.
3. Spacing. Message centers shall have a minimum spacing of:
  1. 50 feet between the electronic message center and the property line of any residential use or district set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses. The distance shall be calculated as the shortest measurable distance between the nearest point of the sign to the edge of the residential property line or district or to the property line of an institutional use.
  2. 400 feet between electronic message centers on the same property, with a maximum of no more than two electronic message centers per any same street frontage. The distance shall be calculated as the shortest measurable distance between the nearest points of the signs.
Pre-Date this Code. Any electronic message center in existence before the effective date of this Code which does not conform to the dimming control requirements of Subsection B.2, above, shall be required to modify such electronic message center to comply with the dimming control within one year of the effective date of this Code.

Changeable Copy Signs. Changeable copy signs may be incorporated into signage as follows:

Design Requirements.
1. Changeable copy signs are only permitted as an integral element of a monument, pylon, pole or marquee signs, which enclose the changeable copy area on all sides with a finish of brick, stone, stucco, powder coated (or comparably finished) metal, or the surface of the sign face. Gaps between the changeable copy area and the surround are permitted to accommodate locks and hinges for a cover for the changeable copy area, but only to the extent necessary for such locks and hinges to operate.
2. Changeable copy signs, including their frames, shall make up not more than 50 percent of the sign area of a monument sign, marquee sign, pole sign, or pylon sign. The balance of the sign area shall utilize permanently affixed letters or symbols.
Lettering of changeable copy signs shall be of a single style and shall be of uniform color and size.

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.106 Sign Maintenance

Generally. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times.

Preservation. All signs, together with all their supports, braces, connections, anchors, and any addition or extension thereto shall be kept in repair and in proper state of preservation.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.107 Removal of Signs

Removal of Certain Signs.

Any sign, now or hereafter existing which has not advertised a bona fide business being conducted, or a product being sold for a period of six months or more, and after written notification from the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee, shall have all of the message section and advertising taken down and removed by the property owner upon which the sign is located. In addition, any sign, now or hereafter, existing which has not advertised a bona fide business being conducted, or a product being sold for a period of one year or more, and after written notification from the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee, shall be removed in its entirety, including the structure to grade.
Notwithstanding Subsection A.1. above, in cases of emergency, the City may cause the immediate removal of a dangerous or defective sign without notice.
Failure of any person to comply with this Subsection shall be subject to the enforcement under the abatement regulations set out in Division 13.1.200, Enforcement, including all costs associated with fines and fees.

Illegal Sign Removal. The Zoning Administrator may, without paying compensation, remove any illegal sign placed in the public right-of-way.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.201 Attached Signs

Residential Uses. The standards of Table 7.2.201A, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts, applies to the residential zoning districts set out in the table.

Table 7.2.201A Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Awning or Canopy Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	20 sf.	2 sf.
Illumination	None
Allowances	May not be used in combination with any other sign
Other Limitations	The sign shall be attached to or affixed flat against the front street wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	Yes, if specified as part of a limited use permit as set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses
Hanging Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	12 sf. per single-family and duplex unit 0.5 per each multi-family unit
Illumination	None
Allowances	May be used only for single- , two- , and multi-family dwellings; no other signs allowed
Other Limitations	The sign shall be affixed flat against the wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	No
Wall Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Window Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Maximum Signable Area Ratio	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--

Table 7.2.201A Permissible Attached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Awning or Canopy Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	20 sf.	2 sf.
Illumination	None
Allowances	May not be used in combination with any other sign
Other Limitations	The sign shall be attached to or affixed flat against the front street wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	Yes, if specified as part of a limited use permit as set out in Article 2.2, Land Uses
Hanging Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Clearance	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per residential unit
Maximum Sign Area	12 sf. per single-family and duplex unit 0.5 per each multi-family unit
Illumination	None
Allowances	May be used only for single- , two- , and multi-family dwellings; no other signs allowed
Other Limitations	The sign shall be affixed flat against the wall of the dwelling
Sign Permit Required	No
Wall Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Window Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Maximum Signable Area Ratio	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--

Nonresidential Uses. The standards of Table 7.2.201B, Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts, applies to the nonresidential zoning districts set out in the table.

Table 7.2.201B Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3¹	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Awning or Canopy Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per storefront for a mixed use or multi-tenant building
Maximum Sign Area	50% of total square footage of front awning area
Maximum Clearance	8 ft. above grade
Illumination	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a wall sign, plus 1 detached sign (excluding temporary signs set out in Division 7.2.300, Temporary Signs)
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		2 sf.	--		2 sf.	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Hanging Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per building
Maximum Sign Area	6 sf.
Maximum Height	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	Indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a awning or canopy
Other Limitations	May not extend within 2 ft. of the curb line May be suspended under a marquee sign in the C-2 and C-3 districts Not allowed if a projecting sign is used
Sign Permit Required	No
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per street facing facade
Maximum Sign Area	--	50 sf. per side; 100 sf. total
Maximum Height	--	5 ft., excluding any top ornament supported directly by the marquee or awning
Minimum Clearance	--	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	--	Down lighting; only the sign area containing the letters or logos may be illuminated with interior lighting
Allowances	--	May be used in lieu of an awning or canopy sign, hanging sign, or a projecting sign.
Other Limitations	--	1. May not project more than 8 ft. from the building; may require an encroachment permit 2. Sign may be on up to three sides of a marquee
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per business					--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--	8 ft.; only to within 1 ft. of curb line					--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--	8 ft. above grade; including accessory lighting fixtures					--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--	Street right-of-way = 14 ft. above grade Other vehicle ways = 9 ft. above grade					--
Maximum Sign Area	--	32 sf.					--
Illumination	--	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only					--
Other Limitations	--	All projecting signs shall be securely attached to the building or structure by bolts, anchors, chains, or galvanized steel guys or cables and shall not be attached to parapet walls in any manner unless such walls are reinforced with steel and designed to support other than the weight of such wall					--
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes					--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		See residential districts	--		See	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		No	--		No	--
Wall Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	Unlimited for all districts
Maximum Sign Area	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign
Illumination	Yes
Allowances	May be used in combination with awning or canopy or hanging signs
Other Limitations	Not project more than 24 in. from the wall or 3 ft. above the wall All wall display signs shall not extend beyond the top and the ends of the wall surface to which they are attached. Wall signs shall maintain a minimum distance of one foot from the lease line of the occupant's portion of the facade. All wall signs shall be securely attached to the building wall by means of metal anchors, bolts, or screws. No such sign shall be fastened by nails, staples, or screws into wooden blocks, or nailing strips built into the masonry
Sign Permit Required	Yes

Table 7.2.201B Permissible Attached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3¹	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Awning or Canopy Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per storefront for a mixed use or multi-tenant building
Maximum Sign Area	50% of total square footage of front awning area
Maximum Clearance	8 ft. above grade
Illumination	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a wall sign, plus 1 detached sign (excluding temporary signs set out in Division 7.2.300, Temporary Signs)
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Business Sign (Home Occupation)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		2 sf.	--		2 sf.	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--		See A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G, and R-M Districts	--
Hanging Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 per building
Maximum Sign Area	6 sf.
Maximum Height	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	Indirect lighting only
Allowances	May be used only in combination with a awning or canopy
Other Limitations	May not extend within 2 ft. of the curb line May be suspended under a marquee sign in the C-2 and C-3 districts Not allowed if a projecting sign is used
Sign Permit Required	No
Marquee Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per street facing facade
Maximum Sign Area	--	50 sf. per side; 100 sf. total
Maximum Height	--	5 ft., excluding any top ornament supported directly by the marquee or awning
Minimum Clearance	--	8 ft. above the sidewalk
Illumination	--	Down lighting; only the sign area containing the letters or logos may be illuminated with interior lighting
Allowances	--	May be used in lieu of an awning or canopy sign, hanging sign, or a projecting sign.
Other Limitations	--	1. May not project more than 8 ft. from the building; may require an encroachment permit 2. Sign may be on up to three sides of a marquee
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Projecting Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--	1 per business					--
Maximum Distance from Building Facade	--	8 ft.; only to within 1 ft. of curb line					--
Minimum Clearance, Pedestrian Way	--	8 ft. above grade; including accessory lighting fixtures					--
Minimum Clearance, Vehicular Way	--	Street right-of-way = 14 ft. above grade Other vehicle ways = 9 ft. above grade					--
Maximum Sign Area	--	32 sf.					--
Illumination	--	Internal illumination; down lit or indirect lighting only					--
Other Limitations	--	All projecting signs shall be securely attached to the building or structure by bolts, anchors, chains, or galvanized steel guys or cables and shall not be attached to parapet walls in any manner unless such walls are reinforced with steel and designed to support other than the weight of such wall					--
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes					--
Residential Nameplate Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--		1 per residential unit	--		1 per residential unit	--
Maximum Sign Area	--		See residential districts	--		See	--
Illumination	--		None	--		None	--
Allowances	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Other Limitations	--		See residential districts	--		See residential districts	--
Sign Permit Required	--		No	--		No	--
Wall Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	Unlimited for all districts
Maximum Sign Area	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max per sign
Illumination	Yes
Allowances	May be used in combination with awning or canopy or hanging signs
Other Limitations	Not project more than 24 in. from the wall or 3 ft. above the wall All wall display signs shall not extend beyond the top and the ends of the wall surface to which they are attached. Wall signs shall maintain a minimum distance of one foot from the lease line of the occupant's portion of the facade. All wall signs shall be securely attached to the building wall by means of metal anchors, bolts, or screws. No such sign shall be fastened by nails, staples, or screws into wooden blocks, or nailing strips built into the masonry
Sign Permit Required	Yes

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.202 Detached Signs

Table 7.2.202A Permissible Detached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Separation	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Directional/Informational Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Height	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Monument (Ground) Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--				1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	--				36 sf.
Maximum Sign Height	--				4 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	--				5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	--				75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--				Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	--				Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Height	--
Minimum Setback/Location	--
Minimum Spacing	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202A Permissible Detached Sign Types for Residential Districts
District	A-L	N-C	R-S	R-G	R-M
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Maximum Height	--
Minimum Separation	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Directional/Informational Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Height	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Area	--
Minimum Setback	--
Illumination	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Monument (Ground) Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--				1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	--				36 sf.
Maximum Sign Height	--				4 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	--				5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	--				75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--				Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	--				Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--
Maximum Sign Height	--
Minimum Setback/Location	--
Minimum Spacing	--
Illumination	--
Allowances	--
Other Limitations	--
Sign Permit Required	--
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202B Permissible Detached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--			1 per property; not allowed if two or more on-site monument (ground) or pole signs totaling 250 sf. facing a travel direction within 35 ft. of street right-of-way		--
Maximum Sign Area	--			200 sf.		--
Maximum Height	--			50 ft.		--
Minimum Separation	--			500 ft. or more (facing the same direction of travel) if an off-site billboard sign is greater than 200 sf. and 30 ft.; all others shall not be less than 200 ft. apart when facing the same direction of travel		--
Minimum Setback	--			Per the zoning district in which the sign is located		--
Illumination	--			Indirect only		--
Other Limitations	--			Applicable only within the City limits. See Section 7.2.402, Off-Site Billboards		--
Sign Permit Required	--			Yes		--
Directional/Informational Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	One per entrance and exit
Maximum Height	10 ft.			10 ft.		10 ft.	10 ft.
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	3 sf.	6 sf.	3 sf.	8 sf.		6 sf.	8 sf.
Maximum Sign Area	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.		40 sf.	40 sf.
Minimum Setback	None
Illumination	Internal or External
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Monument (Ground) Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage			1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	36 sf.	100 sf. max.	36 sf. max.	100 sf. max.		36 sf. max.	36 sf. (see allowances)
Maximum Sign Height	8 ft.	10 ft.	8 ft.	12 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	2 maximum	1 maximum	2 maximum
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max. per sign
Maximum Sign Height	--	30 ft, however for each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.	30 ft.	For each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.
Minimum Setback/Location	--	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height	None	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height
Minimum Spacing	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External
Allowances	--	--	--	--
Other Limitations	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(G)
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes	Yes	Yes
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

Table 7.2.202B Permissible Detached Sign Types for Nonresidential Districts
District	C-1	C-2	C-3	I-1	I-2	M-U	P-I
Billboard Sign (City limits only)	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Not Allowed	Not Allowed
Number Allowed	--			1 per property; not allowed if two or more on-site monument (ground) or pole signs totaling 250 sf. facing a travel direction within 35 ft. of street right-of-way		--
Maximum Sign Area	--			200 sf.		--
Maximum Height	--			50 ft.		--
Minimum Separation	--			500 ft. or more (facing the same direction of travel) if an off-site billboard sign is greater than 200 sf. and 30 ft.; all others shall not be less than 200 ft. apart when facing the same direction of travel		--
Minimum Setback	--			Per the zoning district in which the sign is located		--
Illumination	--			Indirect only		--
Other Limitations	--			Applicable only within the City limits. See Section 7.2.402, Off-Site Billboards		--
Sign Permit Required	--			Yes		--
Directional/Informational Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	One per entrance and exit
Maximum Height	10 ft.			10 ft.		10 ft.	10 ft.
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	3 sf.	6 sf.	3 sf.	8 sf.		6 sf.	8 sf.
Maximum Sign Area	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.	40 sf.		40 sf.	40 sf.
Minimum Setback	None
Illumination	Internal or External
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Monument (Ground) Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage	1 sign per property	1 sign per each 300 ft. of street frontage			1 sign per property
Maximum Sign Area per Monument	36 sf.	100 sf. max.	36 sf. max.	100 sf. max.		36 sf. max.	36 sf. (see allowances)
Maximum Sign Height	8 ft.	10 ft.	8 ft.	12 ft.
Minimum Setback/Location	5 ft.; located between the front property line and parking setback lines
Minimum Separation	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	Direct or indirect
Sign Permit Required	Yes
Pole Sign	Not Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	--	2 maximum	1 maximum	2 maximum
Maximum Sign Area per Sign	--	200 sf. max per sign	100 sf. max per sign	200 sf. max. per sign
Maximum Sign Height	--	30 ft, however for each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.	30 ft.	For each foot of setback provided, an additional foot of sign height will be allowed. In no event shall the height of a sign exceed 90 feet.
Minimum Setback/Location	--	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height	None	< 30 ft. in height = none > 30 ft. = 1 ft. setback for each 1 ft. > 30 ft. in height
Minimum Spacing	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign	--	75 ft. apart; provided each property is allowed at least one sign
Illumination	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C) Internal or External
Allowances	--	--	--	--
Other Limitations	--	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(C)	Refer to Sec. 7.2.101(G)
Sign Permit Required	--	Yes	Yes	Yes
Subdivision Entrance Sign	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed	Allowed
Number Allowed	1 sign per public access point, with no more than 2 signs allowed per subdivision
Sign Location	One sign located at the main entrance within 50 linear feet of the property or in an esplanade maintained by the property owners' association; only allowed for an area of 4+ acres
Maximum Sign Area	50 sf.
Maximum Height	6 ft. above the level of the street upon which the sign faces, or above the adjoining ground level (if ground level is above the street level)
Minimum Setback	10 ft. from street right-of-way; subject to sight distance requirements
Other Limitations	Shall be constructed of wood, stone, brick, or combination thereof, or of materials conducive with and similar to the neighboring properties
Sign Permit Required	Yes, subsequent to subdivision plat approval

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.301 Standards for Temporary Signs by Type

Generally. This Section sets out which temporary signs are allowed in each zoning district, and the size, height, placement, and timing standards that apply to them.

Findings Related to Temporary Signs. The City Commission finds that:

There is a need and warrant for the display of signage on a one-time, limited duration, and/or intermittent basis to aid businesses and other public or private entities in communicating to their customers, patrons, clients, or to the general public;
The regulation of temporary signage is a substantial governmental interest as means for preserving the quality and integrity of the visual environs in a manner that reflects positively on the community and its attractiveness as a place to visit and live; and
It is reasonable to regulate the number, size, height, location, and duration of signs that are placed on property on a temporary basis so as not to devalue or to lessen the impact or importance of permanent signage.

Standards.

Relative to Permanent Signs. Signs that meet the standards of this Section are exempt from the standards for permanent attached and freestanding signs as set out in Division 7.2.200, Permanent Signs, and are not counted in the total square footage of signage allowed on any particular property or site. Signs that do not meet the standards of this Section are subject to the standards for permanent signs or those that are exempted by Sec. 7.1.102, Application.
Illumination. Temporary signs may only have external illumination.
Temporary Banners. Temporary banners are subject to the following regulations:
1. In the A-L, N-C, R-S, R-G districts, temporary banners exceeding a cumulative area of four square feet are prohibited. In the R-M district, temporary banners are allowed up to a maximum cumulative area of 32 square feet.
2. In the C-1, C-2, C-3, I-1, I-2, M-U, and P-I districts, temporary banners are allowed up to a maximum cumulative area of 32 square feet per property or, on a multi-use or multi-tenant property, per storefront. On single use sites that front more than one arterial street, the maximum cumulative area may be increased to 64 square feet. Only one banner may be hung on each building wall or on each separate structure. Any additional banners, or banners larger than 32 square feet in size, must meet the standards for permanent signs in this Code, as follows:
  1. In no case may a single use site or a storefront in a multi-use or multi-tenant property have more than two (2) temporary banners.
  2. A temporary banner may be displayed up to four times per calendar year with each display period not exceeding 30 days for a maximum duration of 120 days per calendar year.
  3. Banners that do not meet the regulations of this subparagraph, must meet the standards for permanent signs.
Temporary Wall or Fascia Signs.
1. In lieu of a temporary banner, one temporary wall sign is allowed per street frontage in the C-1, C-2, I-1, and I-2 districts.
2. Temporary wall signs may be up to 32 square feet in area.
3. Temporary wall signs may not extend above roof lines.
4. Extensions into the right-of-way are prohibited.
5. A temporary wall sign may be displayed no longer than 90 days per calendar year.
Temporary Freestanding or Portable Signs. One temporary freestanding sign is allowed per property in the C-1, C-2, and C-3 districts, which is not counted in the total square footage of permanent signage allowed on the site.
1. Temporary freestanding signs may be up to 12 square feet in area.
2. Extensions into the right-of-way are prohibited, except as permitted in the C-3 district.
3. A temporary freestanding sign may be displayed four times per calendar year with each display period not exceeding 30 days for a maximum duration of 120 days per calendar year.
4. In the C-3 district, a temporary freestanding or portable sign may be displayed daily provided it is removed and stored indoors at the close of business, or 10 p.m. for 24-hour businesses.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.302 Prevention of Visual Clutter in Principal Corridors

Corridor Setback Requirement.

No temporary sign shall be placed within the right-of-way (as provided in Subsection 7.2.102, Prohibited Signs and Design Elements), or within 30 feet of the edge of pavement (whichever creates a greater setback from the edge of pavement), along arterial streets or highways.
The setback requirement of this Section shall not apply in the following circumstances:
1. To the front yard of any lot that is used or zoned for single-family residential purposes, when the front lot line is the edge of the right-of-way of a corridor subject to the requirements of Subsection B.1., above.
2. Where an intervening private fence, wall, or other structure clearly delineates the boundary of private property outside of the prescribed public right-of-way, in which case the required setback shall include only the area up to and including the outside surface of such private fence, wall, or other structure.

Effective on: 8/31/2016

Sec. 7.2.401 Central Business (C-3) District

Figure 7.2.401
Central Business (C-3) District Signage

Attached Signage. The standards for attached signs set out in Table 7.2.201, Permissible Attached Sign Types, are applicable in the C-3 district.
Temporary Signage. The standards for temporary signs set out in Table 7.2.301, Temporary Sign Types, are applicable in the C-3 district.
Projecting Signs. One projection sign is permitted per storefront provided the sign is no larger than two feet by three feet (2’ x 3’) in size. A projection sign shall be supported by a decorative chain or bracket, designed and constructed with craftsmanship and detail. The sign shall have a minimum clearance of nine feet for pedestrians. No projecting sign shall project more than eight feet from the face of the building or structure and no closer than one foot minimum from the curb line; it shall have a minimum vehicular clearance of 14 feet above the vehicular traveled way. Any such projecting sign shall be oriented so that the face of the sign is perpendicular to the building façade from which it projects.
Business (Directory) and Upper Floor Signs. For two-story multi-tenant buildings, one small directory sign with nameplates of the individual tenants is permitted on the ground floor. The maximum size of the directory is two square feet. The design of the sign shall be integrated with and compliment the building design.
Menu Holders. A freestanding menu holder is permitted on the exterior storefront of a restaurant. Such holder shall be limited to the size of two pages of the menu for which lettering shall not exceed one inch in height. The menu holder shall not be located so as to cause a safety hazard for pedestrians. The menu holder shall not be used for additional signage.

(Ord. No. 4012, § 1, 7-14-2022)

Effective on: 7/14/2022

Sec. 7.2.402 Off-Site Billboards

Generally. The following Section applies to off-site billboard signs.

A detailed graphic presentation of the subject property site, including property parcel dimensions;
The location of any other buildings or structures on the site;
The location, size, and type of any other monument (ground) signs on the site;
The distance of the proposed sign from any buildings, structures, or other signs on the site; and
A detailed representation of the proposed sign, including sign structure and sign face dimensions, total height of the sign, and any related appurtenances such as catwalks.

Off-Site Billboard Sign Regulations.

Lot frontage cannot be less than 150 feet.
Cannot be located closer than 500 feet to a park/recreation area, place of worship, museum, or local, state, or national registered historical monument.
May be erected within 500 feet of any such park or recreation areas when such off-site signs are located in athletic field facilities owned or operated by a public body.
All billboard signs are subject to limitations and regulations set out in the State of Kansas Department of Transportation Highway Advertising Control Act of 1972, amended from time to time.
No off-site billboard sign shall be erected that would obscure the view of any on-site sign. This shall be determined by establishing a sight point at the centerline of the street 150 feet in either direction, then no on-site sign within 150 feet of the off-site sign shall be obscured from view.

Effective on: 8/31/2016