This chapter shall be known and cited as the SIGN REGULATIONS ORDINANCE of the village. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

   A.   The purpose of the regulations set forth in this chapter is to further an overall plan for the enhancement of public safety, consistent community development, preservation of property values, and the general welfare of the village. The regulations are further intended to: aid in traffic control and safety; preserve and protect property values; lessen congestion of land and air space; provide against undue concentrations of signs which distract and endanger traffic safety and traffic flow; establish reasonable standards for commercial and other advertising through the use of signs in order to maintain and encourage business activity and area development; avoid uncontrolled proliferation of signs; recognize the rights of the public in its use of roads, streets and highways; preserve the wholesome and attractive character of the village; and recognize that the general welfare of the public includes a community plan that provides for a community that shall be aesthetically pleasing as well as healthful, spacious, clean, and well balanced in its growth and development.

   B.   The promotion of the public health and safety is to be accomplished by reducing the distractive characteristics of signs along public streets and highways, by prohibiting all signs which interfere with public traffic control devices, and by assuring the establishment of adequate and sufficient standards for the erection and maintenance of all signs and sign structures.

   C.   The promotion of the public comfort and welfare is to be accomplished by reducing the number of signs in the village and by ensuring adequate and appropriate spacing of signs so that confusion is reduced and so that businesses can effectively communicate with the public. The public comfort and welfare will be furthered by regulating the size, height, location and general characteristics of permitted signs in order to protect and to enhance the physical appearance and scenic value of the village and the surrounding area, and by regulating signs located near or visible from public property such as streets, highways, parks, schools, nursing homes and hospitals where such signs could jeopardize the public's investment in these facilities. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

Any sign not expressly permitted by this chapter is prohibited in the village unless a variance is granted by the board of trustees pursuant to section 11-10-11 of this chapter. In addition, all signs must comply with all applicable provisions of this chapter, the building and housing codes (title 10, chapter 1 of the village code), property maintenance code (title 10, chapter 2 of the village code), and all other municipal codes of the village. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

   A.   Rules Of Construction: The language set forth in the text of this chapter shall be interpreted in accordance with the following rules of construction:

      1.   The singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular;

      2.   The present tense includes the past and future tenses, and the future tense includes the present;

      3.   The word "shall" is mandatory, while the word "may" is permissive;

      4.   The masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter genders;

      5.   Whenever a word or term defined hereinafter appears in the text of this chapter, its meaning shall be construed as set forth in subsection B of this section; and

      6.   All measured distances shall be to the nearest integral foot. If a fraction is one-half foot (1/2') or more, the integral foot next above shall be taken.

   B.   Definitions: Where a definition is not specifically set forth herein, the term shall be as defined in section 11-3-2 of this title.

   ABANDONED SIGN: A sign which no longer correctly directs or exhorts any person, advertises a bona fide business, lessor, owner, product or activity conducted or product available on or off the premises where such sign is displayed.

   ADMINISTRATING OFFICIAL: The zoning administrator or his duly authorized designee. In the event that office is vacant, see chapter 5 of this title.

   ANIMATED SIGN: A sign employing actual motion or the illusion of motion. "Animated signs", which are differentiated from "changeable signs" as defined and regulated by this chapter, include the following types:

   Electrically Activated: Animated signs producing the illusion of movement by means of electronic, electrical or electromechanical input and/or illumination capable of simulating movement through employment of the characteristics of one or both of the following classifications:

      1.   Flashing: Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose illumination is characterized by a repetitive cycle in which the period of illumination is either the same as or less than the period of nonillumination. For the purposes of this chapter, "flashing" will not be defined as occurring if the cyclical period between on-off phases of illumination exceeds four (4) seconds.

      2.   Patterned Illusionary Movement: Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose illumination is characterized by simulated movement through alternate or sequential activation of various illuminated elements for the purpose of producing repetitive light patterns designed to appear in some form of constant motion.

   Environmentally Activated: Animated signs or devices motivated by wind, thermal changes or other natural environmental input; includes spinners, pinwheels, pennant strings, and/or other devices or displays that respond to naturally occurring external motivation.

   Mechanically Activated: Animated signs characterized by repetitive motion and/or rotation activated by a mechanical system powered by electric motors or other mechanically induced means.

   ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTION: Any projection that is not intended for occupancy and that extends beyond the face of an exterior wall of a building, but does not include signs as defined herein. See also definitions of Awning, Backlit Awning; and Canopy (Attached) and Canopy (Freestanding).

   AWNING: An architectural projection or shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building and composed of a covering of rigid or nonrigid materials and/or fabric on a supporting framework that may be either permanent or retractable, including such structures that are internally illuminated by fluorescent or other light sources.

   AWNING SIGN: A sign displayed on or attached flat against the surface or surfaces of an awning. See also definition of Wall Or Fascia Sign.

   BACKLIT AWNING: An awning with a translucent covering material and a source of illumination contained within its framework.

   BANNER: A flexible substrate on which copy or graphics may be displayed.

   BANNER SIGN: A sign utilizing a banner as its display surface.

   BILLBOARD: See definitions of Off Premises Sign and Outdoor Advertising Sign.

   BUILDING ELEVATION: The entire side of a building, from ground level to the roofline, as viewed perpendicular to the walls on that side of the building.

   BUILDING FACADE: All windows and wall areas in one plane or elevation.

   CANOPY (ATTACHED): A multisided overhead structure or architectural projection supported by attachments to a building on one or more sides and either cantilevered from such building or also supported by columns at additional points. The surface(s) and/or soffit of an attached canopy may be illuminated by means of internal or external sources of light. See also definition of Marquee.

   CANOPY (FREESTANDING): A multisided overhead structure supported by columns, but not enclosed by walls. The surface(s) and/or soffit of a freestanding canopy may be illuminated by means of internal or external sources of light.

   CANOPY SIGN: A sign affixed to the visible surface(s) of an attached or freestanding canopy.

   CHANGEABLE SIGN: A sign with the capability of content change by means of manual or remote input, including signs which are:

      1.   Manually activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed manually.

      2.   Electrically activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed by means of remote electrically energized on-off switching combinations of alphabetic or pictographic components arranged on a display surface. Illumination may be integral to the components, such as characterized by lamps or other light emitting devices; or it may be from an external light source designed to reflect off the changeable component display. See also definition of Electronic Message Sign Or Center.

   COMBINATION SIGN: A sign that is supported partly by a pole and partly by a building structure.

   COPY: Those letters, numerals, figures, symbols, logos and graphic elements comprising the content or message of a sign, excluding numerals identifying a street address only.

   DEVELOPMENT COMPLEX SIGN: A freestanding sign identifying a multiple occupancy development, such as a shopping center or planned industrial park, which is controlled by a single owner or landlord.

   DIRECTIONAL SIGN: Any sign that is designed and erected for the purpose of providing direction and/or orientation for pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

   DOUBLE FACED SIGN: A sign with two (2) faces, back to back.

   ELECTRIC SIGN: Any sign activated or illuminated by means of electrical energy.

   ELECTRONIC MESSAGE SIGN OR CENTER: An electrically activated changeable sign whose variable message capability can be electronically programmed.

   EXTERIOR SIGN: Any sign placed outside a building.

   FACADE: See definition of Building Facade.

   FASCIA SIGN: See definition of Wall Or Fascia Sign.

   FLASHING SIGN: See definition of Animated Sign, Electrically Activated.

   FREESTANDING SIGN: A sign principally supported by a structure affixed to the ground, and not supported by a building, including signs supported by one or more columns, poles or braces placed in or upon the ground.

   FRONTAGE (BUILDING): The length of an exterior building wall or structure of a single premises oriented to the public way or other properties that it faces.

   FRONTAGE (PROPERTY): The length of the property line(s) of any single premises along either a street or public right of way.

   HIGH RISE SIGN: A sign that exceeds the allowable height as defined in section 11-10-9, figures 1, 2 and 3 of this chapter.

   ILLUMINATED SIGN: A sign characterized by the use of artificial light, either projecting through its surface(s) (internally illuminated) or reflecting off its surface(s) (externally illuminated).

   INTERIOR SIGN: Any sign placed within a building, but not including "window signs" as defined in this section. Interior signs, with the exception of window signs as defined in this section, are not regulated by this chapter.

   LOW RISE SIGN: A sign that meets the height and area requirements of section 11-10-9, tables 1 and 2, of this chapter.

   MANSARD: An inclined decorative rooflike projection that is attached to an exterior building facade.

   MARQUEE: See definition of Canopy (Attached).

   MARQUEE SIGN: See definition of Canopy Sign.

   MENU BOARD: A freestanding sign oriented to the drive- through lane for a restaurant that advertises the menu items available from the drive-through window.

   MONUMENT SIGN: A freestanding sign that has at least seventy five percent (75%) of its sign display area in contact with the ground and a decorative sign base.

   MULTIPLE FACED SIGN: A sign containing three (3) or more faces.

   NONCONFORMING SIGN: Any advertising structure or sign which was lawfully erected and maintained prior to the effective date hereof and any amendments hereto, and which fails to conform to all applicable regulations and restrictions of this title.

   OFF PREMISES SIGN: See definition of Outdoor Advertising Sign.

   ON PREMISES SIGN: A sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of messages appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of the property on which it is displayed.

   OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGN: A permanent sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of commercial or noncommercial messages not appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of the property on which it is displayed.

   PARAPET: The extension of a building facade above the line of the structural roof.

   POLE SIGN: See definition of Freestanding Sign.

   POLITICAL SIGN: A temporary sign intended to advance a political statement, cause or candidate for office. A legally permitted outdoor advertising sign shall not be considered to be a political sign.

   PORTABLE SIGN: Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or to a building or building surface.

   PROJECTING SIGN: A sign, other than a wall sign, that is attached to or projects more than eighteen inches (18") (457 mm) from a building face or wall or from a structure whose primary purpose is other than the support of a sign.

   REAL ESTATE SIGN: A temporary sign advertising the sale, lease or rental of the property or premises upon which it is located.

   REVOLVING SIGN: A sign that revolves three hundred sixty degrees (360°) about an axis. See also definition of Animated Sign, Mechanically Activated.

   ROOF SIGN: A sign mounted on and supported by the main roof portion of a building, or above the uppermost edge of a parapet wall of a building, and which is wholly or partially supported by such a building. Signs mounted on mansard facades, pent eaves and architectural projections such as canopies or marquees shall not be considered to be roof signs.

   ROOFLINE: The top edge of a peaked roof or, in the case of an extended facade or parapet, the uppermost point of said facade or parapet.

   SIGN: Any device visible from a public place that displays either commercial or noncommercial messages by means of graphic presentation of alphabetic or pictorial symbols or representations.

   SIGN AREA: The area of the smallest geometric figure, or the sum of the combination of regular geometric figures, which comprise the sign face. The area of any double sided or V-shaped sign shall be the area of the largest single face only. The area of a sphere shall be computed as the area of a circle. The area of all other multiple sided signs shall be computed as fifty percent (50%) of the sum of the area of all faces of the sign.

   SIGN COPY: Those letters, numerals, figures, symbols, logos and graphic elements comprising the content or message of a sign, exclusive of numerals identifying a street address only.

   SIGN FACE: The surface upon, against or through which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated, not including structural supports, architectural features of a building or sign structure, nonstructural or decorative trim, or any areas that are separated from the background surface upon which the sign copy is displayed by a distinct delineation, such as a reveal or border.

      1.   In the case of panel or cabinet type signs, the sign face shall include the entire area of the sign panel, cabinet or face substrate upon which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated, but not open space between separate panels or cabinets.

      2.   In the case of sign structures with routed areas of sign copy, the sign face shall include the entire area of the surface that is routed, except where interrupted by a reveal, border, or a contrasting surface or color.

      3.   In the case of signs painted on a building, or individual letters or graphic elements affixed to a building or structure, the sign face shall comprise the sum of the geometric figures or combination of regular geometric figures drawn closest to the edge of the letters or separate graphic elements comprising the sign copy, but not the open space between separate groupings of sign copy on the same building or structure.

      4.   In the case of sign copy enclosed within a painted or illuminated border, or displayed on a background contrasting in color with the color of the building or structure, the sign face shall comprise the area within the contrasting background, or within the painted or illuminated border.

   SIGN STRUCTURE: Any structure supporting a sign. The area of the sign structure shall not exceed two (2) times the sign area.

   TEMPORARY SIGN: A sign intended to display either commercial or noncommercial messages of a transitory or temporary nature. Portable signs or any sign not permanently embedded in the ground, or not permanently affixed to a building or sign structure that is permanently embedded in the ground, are considered temporary signs.

   UNDER CANOPY SIGN OR UNDER MARQUEE SIGN: A sign attached to the underside of a canopy or marquee.

   V SIGN: Signs containing two (2) faces of approximately equal size, erected upon common or separate structures, positioned in a V shape with an interior angle between faces of not more than ninety degrees (90°) with the distance between the sign faces not exceeding five feet (5') (1,524 mm) at their closest point.

   WALL OR FASCIA SIGN: A sign that is in any manner affixed to any exterior wall of a building or structure and that projects not more than eighteen inches (18") (457 mm) from the building or structure wall, including signs affixed to architectural projections from a building, provided the copy area of such signs remains on a parallel plane to the face of the building facade or to the face or faces of the architectural projection to which it is affixed.

   WINDOW SIGN: A sign affixed to the surface of a window with its message intended to be visible to and readable from the public way or from adjacent property.

   ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS: The zoning board of appeals of the village of Heyworth.

   ZONING CODE: This title. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

   A.   Conformance To Codes: Any sign hereafter erected shall conform to the provisions of this chapter, the provisions of title 10 of the village code and the provisions of any other applicable ordinance or regulation of the village.

   B.   Signs In Public Rights Of Way:

      1.   No sign, other than an official traffic sign or similar sign, shall be erected within the right of way of any street, or within any public way, unless specifically authorized by other ordinances or regulations of the village or by specific authorization of a village official.

      2.   Such signs may be deemed a hazard to the community and may be removed immediately by the zoning administrator or delegate. These signs may be disposed of or held at the discretion of the sign administrator for retrieval by the offending party.

   C.   Traffic Visibility: No sign or sign structure shall be erected at the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision, nor at any location where, by its position, shape or color, it may interfere with or obstruct the view of or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device. See subsection 11-4-5B and section 11-12-1, figure 2, of this title for further information on traffic sign regulations.

   D.   Computation Of Frontage: If a premises contains walls facing more than one property line or encompasses property frontage bounded by more than one street or other property usages, the allowable sign area for the parcel shall be computed on the longer of the sides fronting a right of way.

   E.   Maintenance, Repair And Removal: Every sign permitted by this chapter shall be kept in good condition and repair. When any sign becomes insecure, in danger of falling or is otherwise deemed unsafe by the administrating official, or if any sign shall be unlawfully installed, erected or maintained in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter, the owner thereof or the person or firm using same shall, upon written notice by the administrating official forthwith in the case of immediate danger, and in any case within not more than ten (10) days, make such sign conform to the provisions of this chapter, or shall remove it. If, within ten (10) days, there is not compliance with the order, the code official shall be permitted to remove or cause such sign to be removed at the expense of the owner and/or the user of the sign.

   F.   Obsolete Nonpremises Sign Copy: Any sign copy that no longer advertises or identifies a use conducted on the property on which said sign is erected must have the sign copy covered or removed within thirty (30) days after written notification from the village administrating official; and upon failure to comply with such notice, the administrating official is hereby authorized to cause removal of such sign copy, and any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building, structure or ground on which the sign is located.

   G.   Nonconforming Signs: Any sign legally existing at the effective date hereof that does not conform in use, location, height or size with the regulations of the zone in which such sign is located shall be considered a legal nonconforming use or structure and shall be permitted to continue in such status until the earlier of such time as it is either abandoned or removed by its owner. A nonconforming sign may not be:

      1.   Changed to another nonconforming sign.

      2.   Structurally altered so as to prolong the life of the sign.

      3.   Expanded.

      4.   Reestablished after its removal for a period of more than thirty (30) days.

      5.   Reestablished after damage or destruction if the estimated expense of reconstruction exceeds fifty percent (50%) of its fair cash value prior to the time of destruction.

See the provisions of section 11-4-7 of this title for further requirements regarding nonconforming uses.

   H.   Freestanding Sign Design Regulations:

      1.   All freestanding signs including, but not limited to, on premises, high rise and outdoor advertising signs (billboards) shall be constructed and designed so as not to detract aesthetically or create an adverse economic impact upon adjacent or surrounding property.

      2.   The following basic design elements shall be considered by the village prior to the issuance of a permit to construct, alter or modify any sign located in the C commercial district or M manufacturing districts within the village:

         a.   Structural elements or components of a sign shall be treated or screened to prevent or reduce the visibility from a public way or an adjacent property. This shall be accomplished with the use of decorative building materials and landscape materials including trees, shrubs, bushes or flowers.

         b.   Where an existing or proposed structure is present on a lot, sign construction shall be similar in design, material and architecture so as to be harmonious with the building and its surroundings.

         c.   Lighting associated with a freestanding sign shall provide a plan indicating beam spread foot-candle levels and shall be installed so as to not spill over or glare onto adjacent property or public right of way.

   I.   Freestanding Sign Location: All freestanding signs must be located on a lot of record with frontage on a public road. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

The following signs shall be exempt from the permit provisions of this chapter. These signs are permitted in addition to the signs permitted in the respective use districts, but are subject to the conditions and limitations set forth herein:

   A.   Official Notices: Official notices authorized by a court, public body or public safety official.

   B.   Directional, Warning And Information Signs: Directional, warning or information signs authorized by federal, state or municipal governments.

   C.   Street Address Signs: Street address signs and combination nameplate and street address signs that contain no advertising copy and which do not exceed six (6) square feet (0.56 m2) in area or six feet (6') in height.

   D.   Temporary Political Campaign Signs: Temporary political campaign signs may be erected and maintained within the boundaries of private property only and shall not extend over or into the public right of way. All such signs shall be removed within fourteen (14) days following the date of the election to which the signs pertain.

   E.   Public Signs: Signs of a public, noncommercial nature to include safety signs, danger signs, trespassing signs, traffic signs, street name signs and municipal identification signs, signs indicating scenic or historic points of interest, memorial plaques, signs and emblems of nationally recognized service club organizations and all signs erected by an order of a public official in the performance of a public duty.

   F.   Flags: Flags bearing the official design of a nation, state, municipality, business enterprise, holiday, educational institution or service organization; such flags to be appropriately and properly displayed.

   G.   Integral Signs: Names of buildings, dates of construction, commemorative tablets, and similar signs, when carved into stone, concrete or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum or other permanent type of construction and made an integral part of the building or structure.

   H.   Private Traffic Direction Signs And Related Signs: Signs directing traffic movement onto a premises or within a premises, when such signs are located on the premises, shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area for each sign and, if freestanding, do not exceed six feet (6') in total height. Such signs are considered to include parking directions, exit or entrance signs, drive-up window signs and restroom signs.

   I.   Real Estate Sale Or Rental Signs: An on premises sign, advertising for sale, rental, or lease, all or a portion thereof, the real estate upon which such sign is located. All such signs must be removed within fourteen (14) days following the sale, consummation of the lease, or rental of the property to which the sign pertains.

   J.   Underground Public Utility Warning Signs: Standard types of warning signs marking the routes of underground public utility pipes, conduits and cables.

   K.   Issue Of General Public Interest Sign: Any sign which depicts an issue of general public interest and/or personal beliefs and views to same may be erected and maintained within the boundaries of private property only and shall not extend over or into the public right of way. Such sign is to be removed within fourteen (14) days after the public interest in question has transpired or been finalized by court or other governmental mandate. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

The following devices and locations shall be specifically prohibited:

   A.   Signs of the size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of illumination which may be confused with or construed as a traffic control device, or which hides from view any traffic or street sign or signal. No sign or other advertising structure shall be erected at the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device, or which makes use of words "stop", "look", "danger", or any other word, phrase, symbol or character, in such a manner as to interfere with or mislead or confuse pedestrians or operators of vehicles upon the thoroughfare.

   B.   Except as provided for elsewhere in this title, signs encroaching upon or overhanging public right of way. No sign shall be attached to any utility pole, light standard, street tree or any other public facility located within the public right of way.

   C.   Any sign which is animated by means of flashing, scintillating, blinking or traveling lights.

   D.   Portable electric signs.

   E.   Any sign attached to or placed on a vehicle or trailer parked on public or private property, except for signs meeting the following conditions:

      1.   The primary purpose of such a vehicle or trailer is not the display of signs.

      2.   The signs are magnetic, decals or painted upon an integral part of the vehicle or equipment as originally designed by the manufacturer, and do not break the silhouette of the vehicle.

      3.   The vehicle or trailer is in operating condition, currently registered and licensed to operate on public streets when applicable, and actively used or available for use in the daily function of the business to which such sign relates.

   F.   Vehicles and trailers used primarily as static displays, advertising a product or service.

   G.   Balloons, streamers, pinwheels, nonexempt flags or banners, except those temporarily displayed as part of a special sale, promotion or community event. For the purposes of this subsection, "temporarily" means no more than eighty four (84) days in any calendar year.

   H.   Any sign which constitutes an abandoned sign for fourteen (14) consecutive days.

   I.   No freestanding sign shall be placed or allowed to remain on property unless such property is a lot of record with frontage on a public road. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

Unless specifically exempted, a building permit and all other applicable permits must be obtained from the appropriate administrating official for the erection and maintenance of all signs erected or maintained within the village and in accordance with other ordinances of the village. See title 10, chapter 3 of the village code for information regarding building permits. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

   A.   Sign Area Allowed Per Lot: Every building site may display signage up to the maximum allowed in table 1 of this section. The allowable signage is contingent upon the style of signs selected for the site and the linear lot frontage. The allowable sign area for a lot is fifty percent (50%) higher if all freestanding signs on the lot are "low rise" as defined in note 3 of the table. The increase in sign area does not increase the maximum freestanding sign size permitted by figures 1, 2 and 3 of this section.

   TABLE 1
   SIGN SQUARE FOOTAGE ALLOWED PER LINEAR FOOT OF LONGEST LOT FRONTAGE

 

 

   Notes:

   1.    The square footage in these districts is not determined by lot frontage; the maximum sign square footage is 2 square feet.

   2.    The signage square footage in these districts is not determined by lot frontage. The maximum sign square footage is 40 and the maximum height for a sign is 6 feet.

   3.    The minimum sign package area allowed in PU public use, C commercial and M manufacturing zoning districts is 50 square feet regardless of the lot frontage. Sign height is measured from grade to the top of the sign. The width of a low rise sign shall be not more than twice the allowable height. The maximum height for a sign to qualify for additional sign area in the PU public use, C commercial and M manufacturing districts is as follows:

 

For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929m2.

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

   B.   Freestanding Signs; Sign Display Restrictions: In addition to any allowable wall signs, every single-family residential subdivision, multi-family residential complex, commercial or industrial building, and every separate nonresidential building in a residential zone shall be permitted to display freestanding or combination signs per street frontage subject to the limiting standards set forth in table 2 of this section. Every sign displayed on a site is subject to the restrictions in table 2 of this section.

      1.   Table 2:

   TABLE 2

   SIGN DISPLAY RESTRICTIONS

 

 

   Notes:

   1.    Sign is to be affixed to dwelling door or wall adjacent thereto.

   2.    Sign is to be located 12 feet back from the property line or 1/2 the front yard depth, whichever is less.

   3.    Sign is to be located 12 feet back from the property line or 1/2 the front yard depth, whichever is less.

   4.    PU, C and M: 1 freestanding sign is permitted for each lot frontage on a street or right of way so long as a minimum distance of 100 feet is maintained between the freestanding signs on said lot.

      2.   Figure 1:

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 1.609 km/hr.

PERMITTED HEIGHT AND AREA FOR FREESTANDING SIGNS IN ZONING DISTRICTS PU PUBLIC USE, C COMMERCIAL AND M MANUFACTURING WHERE VEHICULAR SPEED SUBJECT TO POSTED LIMITS IS 35 MILES PER HOUR AND UNDER.

 

 

      3.   Figure 2:

SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 1.609 km/hr.

PERMITTED HEIGHT AND AREA FOR FREESTANDING SIGNS IN ZONING DISTRICTS PU PUBLIC USE, C COMMERCIAL AND M MANUFACTURING WHERE VEHICULAR SPEED SUBJECT TO POSTED LIMITS IS OVER 35 MILES PER HOUR AND UNDER 55 MILES PER HOUR.

 

 

      4.   Figure 3:

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 1.609 km/hr.

PERMITTED HEIGHT AND AREA FOR SIGNS IN ZONING DISTRICTS PU PUBLIC USE, C COMMERCIAL AND M MANUFACTURING WHERE VEHICULAR SPEED SUBJECT TO POSTED LIMITS IS 55 MILES PER HOUR AND ABOVE.

 

 

   C.   Requirements For Specific Sign Types:

      1.   Canopy And Marquee Signs:

         a.   The permanently affixed copy area of canopy or marquee signs shall not exceed an area equal to twenty five percent (25%) of the face area of the canopy, marquee or architectural projection upon which such sign is affixed or applied.

         b.   Graphic striping, patterns or color bands on the face of a building, canopy, marquee or architectural projection shall not be included in the computation of sign copy area.

      2.   Awning Signs:

         a.   The copy area of awning signs shall not exceed an area equal to twenty five percent (25%) of the background area of the awning or awning surface to which such a sign is affixed or applied, or the permitted area for wall or fascia signs, whichever is less.

         b.   Neither the background color of an awning, nor any graphic treatment or embellishment thereto such as striping, patterns or valances, shall be included in the computation of sign copy area.

      3.   Projecting Signs:

         a.   Projecting signs shall be permitted in lieu of freestanding signage on any street frontage limited to one sign per occupancy along any street frontage with public entrance to such occupancy, and shall be limited in height and area as set forth in this section.

         b.   No such sign shall extend vertically above the highest point of the building upon which it is mounted.

         c.   Such signs shall not extend over a public sidewalk or right of way.

      4.   Under Canopy Signs: Under canopy signs shall maintain a clear vertical distance above any sidewalk or pedestrianway a minimum of eight feet (8').

      5.   Roof Signs:

         a.   Roof signs shall be permitted only in PU Public Use, C commercial and M manufacturing zoning districts.

         b.   Such signs shall be limited to a height above the ground and a sign area no more than the height and area provided in figures 1, 2 and 3 of this section, for freestanding signs.

         c.   The sign area for roof signs shall be assessed against the aggregate permitted area for wall signs on the elevation of the building most closely parallel to the face of the sign.

      6.   Menu Boards: One menu board shall be allowed per site and not counted as a freestanding sign for bulk allowances. Menu board signs shall not be permitted to exceed seventy five (75) square feet (4.6 m2).

      7.   Outdoor Advertising Signs:

         a.   The maximum sign height and area shall be determined by the specific zoning district and the posted street miles per hour. These are determined by tables 1 and 2 and figures 1, 2 and 3 of this section.

         b.   Freestanding signs shall be a minimum of one thousand feet (1,000') from any other freestanding off premises sign located on the same side of a two-way street, and five hundred feet (500') from any other freestanding off premises sign on the opposite side of a two-way street. The setback shall be measured from a perpendicular line across the street from the existing freestanding sign.

         c.   Freestanding signs shall be a minimum of one thousand feet (1,000') from any other freestanding off premises sign located on either side of a one-way street. The setback shall be measured from a perpendicular line across the street from the existing freestanding sign.

         d.   Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of two hundred feet (200') from any residential zoning district.

         e.   Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of one hundred feet (100') from any other freestanding on premises sign located on a lot.

         f.   Freestanding signs may be located within the PU Public Use, C commercial and M manufacturing zoning districts; however signs shall count toward the allowed number of freestanding signs for a site, and not be allowed as additional signs.

         g.   Freestanding signs shall be constructed with a trim not to exceed two inches (2") in width.

         h.   Freestanding signs with backs visible from a public right of way shall be improved with decorative panels to cover the structural support of the sign area.

      8.   Temporary Signs: A building permit is required for all temporary signs. The square footage for temporary signs shall be determined as follows:

         a.   Such signs shall be limited to one sign per street front.

         b.   Such signs may be displayed for not more than eighty-four (84) days in any calendar year. The signs shall be erected no more than five (5) days prior to the event or grand opening, and shall be removed not more than one day after the event or grand opening.

         c.   The total area of all such signs shall not exceed one and one-half (1.5) square feet for each linear foot of lot frontage square feet in any public use, business, commercial or industrial district.

         d.   Residential properties shall be limited to one hundred (100) square feet of signage.

         e.   See title 10, chapter 3 of the village code for further information of building permits and fees.

      9.   Development And Construction Signs: Signs temporarily erected during construction to inform the public of the developer, contractors, architects, engineers, the nature of the project or anticipated completion dates, shall be permitted in all zoning districts, subject to the following limitations:

         a.   Such signs on a single residential lot shall be limited to one sign, not greater than six feet (6') in height and six (6) square feet in area.

         b.   Such signs for a residential subdivision or multiple residential lots shall be limited to one sign at each entrance to the subdivision or on one of the lots to be built upon, and shall be no greater than ten feet (10') in height and thirty two (32) square feet in area.

         c.   Such signs for nonresidential uses in residential districts shall be limited to one sign, and shall be no greater than ten feet (10') in height and thirty two (32) square feet in area.

         e.   Development and construction signs may not be displayed until after the issuance of construction permits by the building official, and must be removed not later than twenty four (24) hours following issuance of an occupancy permit for all or any portion of the project. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009; amd. 2011 Code; Ord. 2022-65, 11-21-2022)

   A.   Compliance With Village Code: All signs shall comply with the appropriate detailed provisions of this chapter and of the building code and electrical code as currently adopted by the village, relating to design, structural members and connections. See title 10, chapter 1 of the village code for further information. Any sign exceeding one hundred (100) square feet in area or fifteen feet (15') in overall height shall be supplied with construction documents sealed by a licensed Illinois structural engineer.

   B.   Freestanding Signs And Materials: All freestanding sign structures or poles shall be self-supporting structures erected on and permanently attached to concrete foundations. Such structures or poles shall be fabricated only from painted steel or such other materials as permitted by the building code adopted by the village.

   C.   Strength Of Parapet Wall: A parapet wall must have sufficient strength to support any sign which is attached thereto.

   D.   Supports And Braces: Metal supports or braces shall be adequate for wind loadings. Wire or cable supports shall have a safety factor of 4. All metal, wire cable supports and braces and all bolts used to attach a sign to a bracket or to brackets and signs to the supporting building or structure shall be galvanized or an equivalent material.

   E.   Wind Loads: All signs shall be designed and constructed in conformity with the provisions for materials, loads and stresses of the building code as currently adopted by the village. The effect of special local wind pressures shall be thoroughly considered in the design, but in no case shall the wind load be assumed less than thirty (30) pounds per square foot of net exposed area for roof signs.

   F.   Sign Anchoring: Signs shall be anchored to prevent any lateral movement that would cause wear on supporting members or connectors.

   G.   Maintenance And Repair: Every sign including, but not limited to, those for which a permit is required shall be maintained in a safe, presentable and good structural material condition at all times, including the replacement of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning, and other acts required for the maintenance of said sign. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

   H.   Electrical Requirements:

      1.   All illuminated signs shall have a disconnecting switch located in accordance with the electrical code as adopted by the village. See title 10, chapter 1 of the village code for further information. All illuminated elements of any sign shall always be maintained in satisfactory working condition, and shall be immediately repaired or replaced as needed. Signs that are only partially illuminated shall meet all electrical requirements for that portion directly illuminated. Electrical wiring for illuminated signs shall be installed by a licensed electrical contractor. Sign contractors shall be permitted to make electrical connections from illuminated signs to approved electrical wiring located within six feet (6') of signs or sign structures; provided, that such connections are made in accordance with the electrical code. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009; amd. 2011 Code)

      2.   When a sign is illuminated either from an external source or by an internal source of light, direct rays of light shall not beam to or reflect upon any part of an existing residential building, nor into a residence zoned district, nor into a public street. A sign that is in the direct line of vision of any motorist with a traffic signal light shall not have red, green, yellow, or amber illumination when such illumination is likely to be confused with such signal.

      3.   All gas discharge tubing systems (neon) shall be Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listed or an approved equal. Systems shall be designed and installed per article 600 of the national electrical code. Complete system drawings are to include, but are not limited to, the following: complete tubing design layout and wiring circuits, transformer size(s) and secondary voltage(s). Maximum open circuit voltage shall be seven thousand five hundred (7,500) volts to ground. Transformers above seven thousand five hundred (7,500) volts shall be of balanced design and midpoint wired and enclosed in metallic raceways. All secondary components shall be rated for the circuit voltage listed on the submitted data. All wiring and electrical terminations shall be protected from physical contact if less than eight feet (8') above the finished floor. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

Unless specifically prohibited herein, variances of this chapter may be permitted as provided by the provisions of this chapter or by grant of a variance by the board of trustees per the requirements and procedures of section 11-5-5 of this title. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

   A.   In any instance where signs have been abandoned and/or where the specific event (such as the sale of real estate, the official determination of a political election, the expiration of a holiday) has transpired and the sign or signs in question have not been removed per the requirements established in this chapter, the administrating official, upon five (5) days' prior written notice to the party maintaining the sign in violation of this chapter, may enter the property to remove the sign or signs in violation hereof.

   B.   Whenever it shall appear to the administrating official, other than in the instances set forth in subsection A of this section, that any sign has been constructed, erected, or is being maintained in violation of the regulations of the village, said official shall issue a notice in writing to the owner or lessee of the sign or to the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located. Such notice in writing shall inform the recipient(s) of the violation(s) depicted and shall direct said party to make such alteration, repair, or removal as is necessary to secure compliance with this chapter. Fourteen (14) days from the date of the notice shall be deemed reasonable time, except in instances of mechanical or structural repair. Upon failure of the notice to comply with terms of the violation(s) so noticed within said time period, the administrating official is authorized to remove, alter, or appropriately repair the sign(s) in question for the benefit of the health, welfare, and safety of the general public. All expenses incident thereto shall be charged to said notice and subject to collection by court action by the village.

   C.   Except as otherwise provided, the administrator may remove or cause to be removed immediately any sign(s) without service of the appropriate notice if, in the administrating official's opinion, the condition of the sign(s) is such as to present an immediate threat to the safety of the general public. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)

The penalties of section 11-5-9 of this title are hereby adopted by reference and made a part hereof. (Ord. 2009-36, 4-6-2009)