Zoneomics Logo
search icon

Hollywood City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 8

SIGN REGULATIONS

§ 8.2. General Regulations.

The following apply to all signs in all districts.

§ 8.3. Sign Design Regulations.

Every sign reviewed in accordance with the provisions of this article shall be reviewed for type; placement and location; design and composition; construction and application; and size. All reviews for sign design shall be based solely on the criteria of this article, and shall not be based on the content of the sign.

§ 8.5. Non-Conforming Signs.

Signs that are not consistent with the provisions of this article shall be considered legal non-conforming if a building permit was issued prior to installation and if the sign is not in violation of § 8.5.B. of this article. All other signs are considered illegal non-conforming signs. This section shall not be interpreted to require removal of off-premise signs within the scope of F.S. § 70.20.

§ 8.6. Prohibited Signs.

  1. The following sign locations, fabrications, applications, and designs shall be prohibited:
    1. Flashing signs;
    2. Signs that mimic or may be confused with traffic control devices, thereby creating a safety hazard;
    3. Any sign that is of such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or impair the vision of the driver of any motor vehicle;
    4. Signs that emit audible sounds, odors, or visible matter;
    5. Signs that are not securely affixed to the ground, or otherwise affixed in a permanent manner to an approved supporting structure;
    6. Signs attached to trees or other vegetative landscaping material; and
    7. Private signs on public property or rights-of-way.
  2. The following sign types shall also be prohibited:
    1. Rooftop signs;
    2. Off-premises signs;
    3. Swinging signs;
    4. Snipe signs;
    5. Animated signs and rotating signs;
    6. A-frame signs except in the CRA Districts;
    7. Permanent banners;
    8. Buntings, fluttering devices, pennants, and streamers;
    9. Running lights or electronic message centers;
    10. Bare bulb signs;
    11. Box signs;
    12. Pole signs; and
    13. Neon banding around freestanding signs and existing box signs.

(Ord. O-2000-40, passed 12-20-00; Am. Ord. O-2001-16, passed 5-16-01; Am. Ord. O-2002-22, passed 6-5-02; Am. Ord. O-2008-21, passed 9-3-08; Am. Ord. O-2013-22, passed 12-4-13; Am. Ord. O-2019-03, passed 3-20-19)


A. The purpose of this article is to permit signs that:

  1. Shall not by their size, location, method of construction and installation, or manner of display, endanger the health, safety, and general welfare of the public, or create distractions that may jeopardize pedestrian or vehicular traffic safety, or mislead, confuse, or obstruct the vision of people seeking to locate or identify uses or premises;
  2. Shall be architecturally and aesthetically compatible with the buildings they are placed on, and will not destroy or impair aesthetic or visual qualities of the city that are essential to the tourist economy of the city and to the general welfare; and
  3. Shall be efficient in the transfer of information.

B. The intent of this article is as follows:

  1. Florida Constitution. Article II, Section 7 of the Florida Constitution provides that "[i]t shall be the policy of the state to conserve and protect its natural resources and scenic beauty..." A beautiful environment preserves and enhances the desirability of the City of Hollywood as a place to live and to do business. Implementing the Florida Constitution is a compelling governmental interest.
  2. Florida Statutes. Florida law requires cities to adopt comprehensive plans and implement them through the adoption of land development regulations (also known as zoning regulations) and the approval of development orders that are consistent with the comprehensive plan. See Part II of Chapter 163, Florida Statutes. Florida law specifically requires that the city adopt sign regulations. See F.S. § 163.3202(2)(f). Complying with state law is a compelling governmental interest.
  3. City of Hollywood Comprehensive Plan. Objective 4 of the land use element intends to "promote improved architectural and streetscape design standards, code enforcement, economic development, neighborhood planning, and public information dissemination to maintain and enhance neighborhoods, businesses, and tourist areas.”
  4. Caselaw. In accordance with the U.S. Supreme Court's cases on sign regulation, the regulations in this article are not intended to regulate or censor speech based on its content or viewpoint, but rather to regulate the secondary effects of speech that may adversely affect the city's substantial and compelling governmental interests in preserving scenic beauty and community aesthetics, and in vehicular and pedestrian safety in conformance with the First Amendment. These cases and their holdings include, but are not limited to:
    1. Reed v. Town of Gilbert, 576 U.S. 135, S. Ct. 2218, 192 L. Ed. 2d 236 (2015), on the topic of non-commercial temporary signs;
    2. Metromedia, Inc. v. City of San Diego, 453 U.S. 490 (1981), on the topic of commercial signs and off-premise signs;
    3. City of Ladue v. Gilleo, 512 U.S. 43 (1994), on the topic of political protest signs in residential areas;
    4. Linmark Assocs., Inc. v. Township of Willingboro, 431 U.S. 85 (1977), on the topic of real estate signs in residential areas;
    5. Burson v. Freeman, 504 U.S. 191 (1992), on the topic of election signs near polling places;
    6. Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. v. Public Service Commission, 447 U.S. 557 (1980), on the topic of commercial speech; and
    7. City Council v. Taxpayers for Vincent, 466 U.S. 789 (1984), on the topic of signs on public property.
  5. Impact of sign clutter. Excessive signage and sign clutter impair the legibility of the environment, and undermine the effectiveness of governmental signs, traffic control devices, and other required signs (such as directional, informational, directory, identification, and warning signs) that are essential to identifying locations for the delivery of emergency services and other compelling governmental purposes. The intent of these sign regulations is to enhance the visual environment of the city, ensure that city residents and visitors can safely navigate through the city to their intended destinations, and promote the continued well-being of the city. It is therefore the purpose of this article to promote aesthetics and the public health, safety, and general welfare, and assure the adequate provision of light and air within the city through reasonable, consistent, and non-discriminatory standards for the posting, displaying, erection, use, and maintenance of signs that are no more restrictive than necessary to achieve these governmental interests.
  6. Specific legislative intent. More specifically, these sign regulations are intended to:
    1. Classify and categorize signs by type and zoning district;
    2. Permit, regulate, and encourage the use of signs with a scale, graphic character, and type of lighting compatible with buildings and uses in the area, so as to support and complement the goals, objectives, and policies set forth in the City's Comprehensive Plan;
    3. Allow signs that are compatible with their surroundings and aid orientation, while precluding the placement of signs that contribute to sign clutter or that conceal or obstruct adjacent land uses or signs;
    4. dEncourage and allow signs that are appropriate to the zoning district in which they are located consistent with and serving the needs of the land uses, activities, and functions to which they pertain;
    5. Establish regulations affecting the design, erection, and maintenance of signs for the purpose of ensuring equitable means of graphic communication, while maintaining a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing visual environment within the city. It is recognized that signs form an integral part of architectural building and site design and require equal attention in their design, placement, and construction;
    6. Regulate the appearance and design of signs in a manner that promotes and enhances the beautification of the city and that complements the natural surroundings in recognition of this city's reliance on its natural surroundings and beautification efforts as a source of economic advantage as an attractive place to live and work;
    7. Preclude signs from conflicting with the principal permitted use of the lot and adjoining lots;
    8. Establish dimensional limits and placement criteria for signs that are legible and proportional to the size of the lot and structure on which the sign is to be placed or to which it pertains;
    9. Maintain and enhance the scenic beauty of the aesthetic environment and the city's ability to attract sources of economic development and growth;
    10. Preserve, conserve, protect, and enhance the aesthetic quality and scenic beauty of all zoning districts in the city;
    11. Encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication in the city;
    12. Ensure pedestrian safety and traffic safety;
    13. Regulate signs so as to not interfere with, obstruct the vision of, or distract motorists, bicyclists, or pedestrians;
    14. Regulate signs so that they are effective in performing the function of identifying and safely directing pedestrian and vehicular traffic to a destination;
    15. Curtail the size and number of signs to the minimum reasonably necessary to identify a residential or business location and the nature of such use, and to allow smooth navigation to these locations;
    16. Lessen the visual clutter that may otherwise be caused by the proliferation, improper placement, illumination, animation, excessive height, and excessive area of signs that compete for the attention of pedestrian and vehicular traffic and are not necessary to aid in wayfinding;
    17. Allow for traffic control devices without city regulation consistent with national standards because they promote highway safety and efficiency by providing for the orderly movement of road users on streets and highways, and by notifying road users of regulations and providing nationally consistent warnings and guidance needed for the safe, uniform, and efficient operation of all elements of the traffic stream and modes of travel, while regulating private signs to ensure that their size, location, and other attributes do not impair the effectiveness of such traffic control devices;
    18. Minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on nearby public and private property;
    19. Protect property values by precluding, to the maximum extent possible, signs that create a nuisance to the occupancy or use of other properties as a result of their size, height, illumination, brightness, or movement;
    20. Protect property values by ensuring that the size, number, and appearance of signs are in harmony with buildings, neighborhoods, structures, and conforming signs in the area;
    21. Except to the extent expressly preempted by Broward County, state, or federal law, ensure that signs are constructed, installed, and maintained in a safe and satisfactory manner, and protect the public from unsafe signs;
    22. Foster the integration of signage with architectural and landscape designs;
    23. Not regulate signs more than necessary to accomplish the compelling and important governmental objectives described herein;
    24. Enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations;
    25. Be considered the maximum standards allowed for signage; and
    26. Regulate signs in a permissive manner so that any sign is not allowed unless expressly permitted and not expressly prohibited.

C. This article:

  1. 1. Shall govern the number, size, location, and character of all signs which may be permitted either as a main or accessory use under the terms of this article. No signs shall be permitted on a lot or structure either as a main or accessory use except in accordance with the provisions of this article.
  2. 2. Shall not regulate government signs on government property, including, but not limited to, city signs on property owned by the city, the county, or the State of Florida, and traffic control devices.
  3. 3. In the event of any conflict between this article and any declaration of covenants, bylaws, or other restrictions applying to any property within the city, shall apply the language affording the more restrictive interpretation.
  4. 4. Specifically finds that these sign regulations are narrowly tailored to achieve the compelling and substantial governmental interests of traffic safety and aesthetics, and that there is no other way for the city to further these interests.

(Ord. O-2000-40, passed 12-20-00; Am. Ord. O-2019-03, passed 3-20-19)


A. Sign permit required.

Except as provided herein, it shall be unlawful for any person or firm to post, display, repair, change, paint, or erect any sign or sign structure without first obtaining a sign permit. Separate sign permits are required for each sign. Signs may also be required to obtain a building permit after obtaining the sign permit and before they can be displayed.

B. Building permit required.

Except as provided in this section, no permanent sign shall be erected, constructed, posted, painted, altered, maintained, or relocated until a permit has been issued by the Building Official. Structural and safety features and electrical systems shall be in accordance with the requirements of the Florida Building Code. Separate building permits are required for each sign. Window signs, applied to the interior of glazed areas, do not require a building permit.

C. Electrical permit required.

All signs that are electrically illuminated by any means shall require a separate electrical permit and inspection. Separate electrical permits are required for each sign.

D. Exempt signs.

The following signs may be erected or constructed without review by the Division of Planning or the Planning and Development Board, but shall comply with all applicable requirements of the Florida Building Code:

  1. Traffic control devices;
  2. Changing the copy on a manual or automatic changeable copy sign or billboard;
  3. 3Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this article, any sign permitted by this code may be permitted to substitute or change the lettering on said sign face to convey non-commercial messages as often as the person owning or in control of the sign wishes, provided that all other criteria of this code are satisfied. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this article, no sign or sign structure shall be subject to any limitation based solely upon the content of the message contained on such sign or displayed on such sign structure;
  4. Temporary signs, non-commercial, in accordance with § 8.5.C.
  5. Signs that are not visible from any nearby public property, including, without limitation, a public right-of-way or private right-of-way, is not a sign subject to regulation under this article.

(Ord. O-2000-40, passed 12-20-00; Am. Ord. O-2008-21, passed 9-3-08; Am. Ord. O-2011-14, passed 5-4-11; Am. Ord. O-2019-03, passed 3-20-19)


C. Construction and application.

  1. Production. All signs shall be professionally produced or fabricated.
  2. Structural components.
    1. All structural, electrical, and mechanical members utilized in the construction, erection, and operation of signs shall be concealed except for vertical supports for freestanding signs or other supporting members that are designed and arranged consistent with this article so as to be an integral part of the aesthetic composition of a sign.
    2. Raceways and raceway mounting of letters or symbols are prohibited unless existing structural building conditions, such as certain class structures, warrant this type of mounting.

D. Maintenance.

All signs shall be maintained in good condition and appearance and shall not show evidence of deterioration, weathering, discoloration, rust, or other conditions reflective of deterioration or inadequate maintenance. Any persons responsible for the erection or maintenance of a sign that fails to comply with this regulation or any other regulation of this article shall be subject to enforcement procedures.

(Ord. O-2000-40, passed 12-20-00; Am. Ord. O-2001-16, passed 5-16-01; Am. Ord. O-2008-21, passed 9-3-08; Am. Ord. O-2011-14, passed 5-4-11; Am. Ord. O-2012-06, passed 4-4-12; Am. Ord. O-2014-05, passed 4-16-14; Am. Ord. O-2019-03, passed 3-20-19)


A. Replacement and repair.

  1. Should a non-conforming sign, legal or illegal, be removed for any reason, all replacement signage shall conform to the current regulations.
  2. The value of the repair of a non-conforming sign, legal or illegal, shall not exceed 50% of the replacement cost of the sign as determined by the Building Official. No more than one building permit shall be issued for the repair within a three-year period. Change of copy shall not be considered a repair.

B. Removal required.

Removal of non-conforming signs is required in the following instances:

  1. All signs not maintained in good condition and appearance, showing evidence of deterioration, weathering, discoloration, rust, or other conditions reflective of deterioration or inadequate maintenance, shall be subject to enforcement procedures and may result in removal.
  2. The Chief Building Official may initiate proceedings that result in the removal of any on-premise sign erected or maintained without a permit.
  3. In any district where a sign does not comply with the provisions of this article and has not received a building permit, such sign and any supporting structures, other than a building, shall be removed.
  4. All illegal non-conforming signs shall be removed prior to the issuance of building permits for new signs.
  5. All abandoned signs that are legal or illegal non- conforming signs shall be removed.
  6. When a sign is located on public property, the city shall have the right to remove the sign. The owner may recover the sign by paying the removal costs within 60 days of the removal. If the owner does not recover the sign within 60 days, then it shall be considered abandoned property in the hands of the city and shall be disposed of as permitted by law. The city shall recover all costs in conjunction with the removal of signs from the owner and/or the owner's property. Said recovery may be by way of personal action against the owner or a lien may be placed against the property of the owner located within the city.

C. Change of copy.

The copy of any legal non-conforming sign may be changed provided the change does not increase the sign's non- conformity and the change of copy is not otherwise prohibited by law (for example, by converting the sign into a prohibited off-premises sign).

D. Billboards.

No more than 15 billboards are permitted in the city. They shall only be located along limited access arterial roadways, limited in size to 14 feet by 48 feet, and supported by a single pole. Such signs shall be exempt from non-conforming provisions in Article 3. This section shall not be interpreted to require removal of off-premise signs within the scope of F.S. § 70.20.

(Ord. O-2000-40, passed 12-20-00; Am. Ord. O-2008-21, passed 9-3-08; Am. Ord. O-2019-03, passed 3-20-19)


1. Sign permit fees.

Fees shall be paid in accordance with the fee schedule provided by resolution of the City Commission.

2. Sign permit tags.

Sign permit tags, which shall include the address of the property on which the sign is located, permit number, date installed, and the name of the installation company or person, shall be affixed to each new sign permitted pursuant to this article. Sign permit tags shall be of a durable weatherproof material and affixed in a location readily visible on the sign, and shall be supplied by the installation company or person.

3. Sign permit application submittal requirements.
  1. a. Application submittal. Before any sign permit is issued, a written application, in a form provided by the city, shall be filed with the consent of the property owner, together with such drawings and specifications as are necessary to demonstrate that the sign complies with the requirements of this article. Such drawings (surveys, site plans, elevations, details, and the like) shall be to scale and fully dimensioned; illustrate property lines, rights-of-way, internal streets, sidewalks, overhead utility lines, parking areas, and all buildings and structures on the premises, and indicate the following:
    1. Setting and location of the sign;
      1. Placement and setback requirements, including dimensions of lot and building frontages, as applicable;
      2. Landscaping, if applicable; and
      3. Method of illumination, if applicable.
    2. (Design of the sign;
      1. Composition of the sign and all intended copy, including dimensions (height, width, and area) of the total sign area and individual components (for example, structure, copy area, and the like); and
      2. Sign media and materials.
    3. Construction and application;
      1. Method of construction; and
      2. Method of application, securing, or fastening.
    4. Photographs and/or permit numbers of all existing signs;
    5. (Total number of signs applied for, including other permits and applications currently pending; and
    6. Location and size of permit tag, as required by this section.
  2. Determination of complete application.
    Upon the submission of a sign permit application, the city shall have ten days to determine whether the application is complete. If the city finds that the application is not complete, the city shall provide the applicant with written notice of the deficiencies within the ten-day period. Upon re-submission of the application, the city shall have five additional days to determine whether the applicant's revisions are sufficient to complete the application. If they are not, the city will again inform the applicant of any remaining deficiencies in writing. This process shall continue until the applicant has submitted a complete application or demands that the application be reviewed "as is."
4. Permit approval or denial.

The city shall approve or deny the sign permit based solely on whether it complies with the requirements of this article. The city shall approve or deny the sign permit within 30 days after receipt of a complete application. In the event that the Department of Development Services fails to timely render a final determination on a sign permit application, the applicant may erect and maintain the sign proposed in the application.

5. Appeal provisions.

If the sign permit application is denied, the city shall prepare a written notice of its decision, describing the applicant's appeal rights, and send it to the applicant. The applicant may file a written notice of appeal to the City Commission within 30 days after the date of receipt of the city's written notice. The City Commission shall hold a public hearing at the next available Commission meeting that is at least 25 days after the date of receiving the written notice of appeal, at which the City Commission shall determine whether the application satisfies the requirements of this article. If the City Commission does not approve the application, then the applicant may seek relief in the Circuit Court for Broward County, as provided by law.

1. Placement and setback requirements.
  1. No sign, portable or otherwise, is to be placed or located to conflict with the vision clearance requirements of § 4.23.B.7.c. of this code.
  2. Signs shall be placed in a manner that enhances and complements the design and architecture of the building. Signs shall not obscure architectural features.
  3. Existing storefronts or facades shall not be modified to provide larger signage.
  4. Signs shall not extend above or beyond the roof line or parapet wall.
  5. Where other primary signage options are available, signs shall not be permitted on mansard roofs.
  6. For multiple-tenant buildings and shopping centers, signs with the exception of parapet signs are permitted for ground floor tenants only. Signs shall be located near the entrance to the establishment. Tenants on the second floor or above and ground floor tenants sharing one main entrance may be identified on a wall directory sign, located on the ground floor.
  7. Parapet signs for multistory buildings, ten stories and above, may be placed anywhere above the ground floor on the facade in which they are permitted, and shall not be limited to the parapet.
  8. Freestanding signs shall maintain a minimum setback of one foot for every two feet of sign height, but not less than three feet.
2. Landscaping.

Landscaping shall be provided at the base of each freestanding sign and shall be egual in area to the length of the sign by a width of two feet. Landscaping shall include living ground cover or shrubs.

3. Lighting.

All lights and lighting from a sign shall be designed and arranged as to not cause direct glare onto another property, the eyes of passing motorists or pedestrians. Signs may only be illuminated in any of the following methods:

  1. By lights placed inside individual channel letters or symbols with a translucent face;
  2. By halo lights placed behind individual reverse channel letters;
  3. By lights that are directed to shine directly on the sign provided the fixtures are discreet and compatible with the architecture of the building; and
  4. dBy exposed neon, with the exception of monument signs.
1. Composition.
  1. Signs shall be designed and located in a manner that enhances and complements the design and architecture of the building and site.
  2. The arrangement and composition of the sign shall be legible and proportionate to the building and range of visibility, and shall not create visual clutter.
  3. Multiple sign types and construction methods may be combined, with the exception of freestanding signs. Sign area shall not be cumulative, and shall be limited to the largest sign type.
  4. Monument signs shall be limited to two sides and shall include the street address of the development to assure that drivers can safely and easily locate the development.
  5. Post and panel signs shall be limited to two sides, and supported by one or two permanently mounted wood, metal, stone posts, or similar material. Such posts shall be square in section and not more than six inches in width.
  6. Permitted wall sign area may be divided and distributed on the facade on which it is permitted, as deemed appropriate by the City Manager or designee.
  7. For multiple-tenant buildings and shopping centers, signage shall be cohesive in placement, design, fabrication, and size.
2. Sign media and materials.

Any combination of durable weatherproof materials approved by the Chief Building Official may be used in the construction of a sign. The following sign media and materials are permitted:

  1. Individually flush mounted or reverse channel letters or symbols;
  2. Metal, wood, or similar panel with "push through" or "die cut" letters or symbols;
  3. Stuccoed surface with individual channel letters or symbols;
  4. Painted wall signs applied directly to flat, solid stucco surfaces or other such smooth surfaces; and
  5. eLetters or symbols which are cut, formed, molded, or otherwise integrated into the architecture of the building.
3. Color.

Sign color shall not be fluorescent and shall coordinate and contrast with the background colors of the building or mounting face.

1. Single Family and Low-Medium Multiple Family Residential Districts.

Single Family Districts (RS-1 through RS-10); Low/Medium Multiple Family Districts (RM-9); Trailer Park District (TP); and Planned Development (PD) and Planned Unit Development (PUD) Districts comprised of single-family homes. Signs for places of worship and schools shall be regulated pursuant to § 8.4.A.7.

Type

Maximum Area

Maximum Number

Maximum Height

The following signs may be permitted for residential development or neighborhood:

Monument or identification sign

25 square feet

1 sign per entrance

Limited to the fence/wall height pursuant to § 155.12 of the City Code of Ordinances

Wall identification sign

25 square feet

1 sign per entrance

Not applicable


2. Medium to High Multiple Family Districts.

Medium to High Multiple Family Districts (RM-12, RM-18, RM-25, and BRT-25); North Beach Development Districts (NBDD); Multiple-Family Residential Wetlands District (RM-WET); multiple-family residential buildings within Planned Development (PD) and Planned Unit Development (PUD) Districts; and multiple-family residential buildings in the Regional Activity Center, Downtown and Beach Community Redevelopment, and Transit Oriented Corridor Districts. Signs for places of worship and schools shall be regulated pursuant to § 8.4.A.7.

TypeMaximum AreaMaximum NumberMaximum Height

One of the following signs may be permitted per street frontage:

Monument or identification sign1

Properties of 2 acres or less:

15 square feet per side

1 sign per lot

6 feet

Properties of greater than 2 acres:

25 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

6 feet

Post and panel sign1

10 square feet per side, 2 side maximum

1 sign per street frontage

5 feet

One of the following signs may also be permitted per street frontage:

Canopy sign

30 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

Projecting sign

5 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Wall sign

30 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

The following additional signs may also be permitted:

Parapet sign

For building 10 stories or greater:

10% of the total facade area where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

1 Prohibited along Broadwalk frontages


3. Office Districts.

Office Districts (O-1, O-2, O-3, and OM); office buildings within Planned Development (PD) and Planned Unit Development (PUD) Districts; and office buildings in the Regional Activity Center, Downtown and Beach Community Redevelopment, and Transit Oriented Corridor Districts.

TypeMaximum AreaMaximum NumberMaximum Height

One of the following freestanding signs may be permitted per street frontage and/or outparcel:

Monument sign1

Frontage of at least 100 feet but less than 200 feet:

24 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

6 feet

Frontage of at least 200 feet but less than 300 feet:

36 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

8 feet

Frontage of more than 300 feet:

64 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

16 feet

Post and panel sign1

Panel area: 10 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

5 feet

Two of the following signs may be permitted per ground floor tenant with recognizable entrance:

Awning sign

75% of the length of the awning

1 sign per street frontage

12 inches

Canopy sign

1.5 square feet per linear foot of canopy frontage

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Projecting sign

5 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground




Wall sign

For lots with less than 100 linear feet of street frontage:

10 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

For lots with 100 linear feet of street frontage or more:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located. Signs may be a minimum of 25 square feet and shall be a maximum of 150 square feet

Single-tenant building:

1 per facade; maximum of 3 signs per building

Multiple-tenant building:

1 sign per street frontage


Not applicable

The following additional signs may also be permitted:

Directory sign

1 square foot per tenant or 6 square feet, whichever is greater

Not applicable

Not applicable




Parapet sign

For 2-3 story buildings:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

2 feet

For buildings 4-9 stories:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

3 feet

For buildings 10 stories or greater:

15% of the total facade area where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

Window sign

15% of the door, window, or storefront area. Signs may be a minimum of 20 square feet

Not applicable

Not applicable

1 Prohibited along Broadwalk frontages


4. Commercial Districts.

Commercial Districts (C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, and C-5); Hospital District (HP); commercial and mixed-use buildings within Planned Development (PD) and Planned Unit Development (PUD) Districts; commercial and mixed-use buildings in the Beach Community Redevelopment Districts: and commercial and mixed-use buildings in the Transition, Mixed-Use, and Commercial Districts in the Regional Activity Center, Downtown and Beach Community Redevelopment, and Transit Oriented Corridor Districts.

TypeMaximum AreaMaximum NumberMaximum Height

One of the following freestanding signs may be permitted per street frontage and/or outparcel:

Monument sign1

Frontage of less than 100 feet:

6 square feet per side

1 sign per lot

4 feet

Frontage of at least 100 feet but less than 200 feet:

24 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

6 feet

Frontage of at least 200 feet but less than 300 feet:

36 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

8 feet

Frontage of more than 300 feet:

64 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

16 feet

Post and panel sign1

Frontage of less than 100 feet:

Panel area: 10 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

5 feet

Two of the following signs may be permitted per ground floor tenant with recognizable entrance:

Awning sign

75% of the length of the awning

1 sign per street frontage

12 inches

Canopy sign

1.5 square feet per linear foot of canopy frontage

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Marquee sign

10 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Projecting sign

5 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Wall sign

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located. Signs may be a minimum of 25 square feet

Single-tenant building:

1 per facade; maximum of 3 signs per building

Multiple-tenant building:

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

The following additional signs may also be permitted:

Directory sign

1 square foot per tenant or 6 square feet, whichever is greater

Not applicable

Not applicable

Parapet sign

For 2-3 story buildings:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

2 feet

For buildings 4 stories or greater:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

3 feet

For buildings 10 stories or greater:

15% of the total facade area where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

Window sign

15% of the door, window, or storefront area. Signs may be a minimum of 20 square feet

Not applicable

Not applicable

1 Prohibited along Broadwalk frontages


5. Industrial Districts.

Industrial and Manufacturing Districts (IM-1, IM-2, IM-3, and IM-4); and the Office, Showroom, and Warehouse District (OSW).

TypeMaximum AreaMaximum NumberMaximum Height

One of the following freestanding signs may be permitted per street frontage and/or outparcel:

Monument sign

Frontage of less than 100 feet:

6 square feet per side

1 sign per lot

4 feet

Frontage of at least 100 feet but less than 200 feet:

24 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

6 feet

Frontage of at least 200 feet but less than 300 feet:

36 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

8 feet

Frontage of more than 300 feet:

64 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

16 feet

Post and panel sign1

Frontage of less than 100 feet:

Panel area: 10 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

5 feet

Two of the following signs may be permitted per ground floor tenant with recognizable entrance:

Awning sign

75% of the length of the awning

1 sign per street frontage

12 inches

Canopy sign

1.5 square feet per linear foot of canopy frontage

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Projecting sign

5 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Wall sign

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located. Signs may be a minimum of 25 square feet and a maximum of 200 square feet

Single-tenant building:

1 per facade; maximum of 3 signs per building

Multiple-tenant building:

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

The following additional signs may also be permitted:

Directory sign

1 square foot per tenant or 6 square feet, whichever is greater

Not applicable

Not applicable

Parapet sign

For 2-3 story buildings:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

2 feet

For buildings 4 stories or greater:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

3 feet

For buildings 10 stories or greater:

15% of the total facade area where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

Window sign

15% of the door, window, or storefront area. Signs may be a minimum of 20 square feet

Not applicable

Not applicable


6. Port Everglades Development District.

Port Everglades Development District (PEDD). PEDD sign regulations are determined by a separate agreement between Broward County and the Cities of Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, and Dania Beach.

TypeSizeNumber

Primary Signs

Wall sign

15% of the front wall 10% of side (street facing) walls; 200 square feet maximum

1 sign per street frontage

Tenant awning sign (multiple-tenant building)

6 square feet, 15 square feet aggregate, 5 feet height

1 sign in addition to above

Freestanding sign

Properties with less than 100 feet of frontage on the main street: 1 sign with area not to exceed 64 square feet total, 2 side maximum, and a maximum height of 16 feet

Properties with 100 feet or more of frontage on the main street: 1 sign with an area not to exceed 1 square foot per linear foot of frontage, 64 square feet per side maximum, 2 side maximum, and a maximum height of 16 feet

Secondary Signs

Directional or informational sign

12 square feet, 4 feet high

2 signs per curb cut


7. Institutional and Recreational Districts and Uses.

Limited Agricultural District (AD); Country Club District (CC); Government Use (GU); Open Space (OS); and Sports and Recreational Facility (SRF); and institutional uses, including places of worship and schools.

TypeMaximum AreaMaximum NumberMaximum Height

One of the following freestanding signs may be permitted per street frontage:

Monument sign1

Frontage of less than 200 feet:

36 square feet per side

1 sign per lot

6 feet

Post and panel sign1

Panel area: 10 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

5 feet

Two of the following signs may be permitted per ground floor tenant with recognizable entrance:

Awning sign

75% of the length of the awning

1 sign per street frontage

12 inches

Canopy sign

1.5 square feet per linear foot of canopy frontage

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Projecting sign

5 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

7.5-foot vertical clearance to ground

Wall sign

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located. Signs may be a minimum of 25 square feet and a maximum of 150 square feet

Single-tenant building:

1 per facade; maximum of 3 signs per building

Multiple-tenant building:

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

The following additional signs may also be permitted:

Directory sign

1 square foot per tenant or 6 square feet, whichever is greater

Not applicable

Not applicable




Parapet sign

For 2-3 story buildings:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

2 feet

For buildings 4 stories or greater:

1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

3 feet

For buildings 10 stories or greater:

15% of the total facade area where the sign is to be located

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

Window sign

15% of the door, window, or storefront area. Signs may be a minimum of 20 square feet

Not applicable

Not applicable

1 Prohibited along Broadwalk frontages


8. Supplemental regulations.

a. The following signs may also be permitted.

TypeMaximum AreaMaximum NumberMaximum Height

The following additional signs may also be permitted in all districts, as applicable:

Address

Not applicable

1 sign per street or alley frontage

6 inches

Directional sign

2 square feet

2 signs per vehicular driveway

4 feet

Directory sign

1 square foot per tenant or 6 square feet, whichever is greater

Not applicable

Not applicable

Incidental

6 square feet

3 signs per establishment

Not applicable

Non-commercial sign

3 square feet

Not applicable

4 feet

The following additional signs may also be permitted for service stations and auto related uses:

Service station canopy sign

40 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

Service station bay or fueling island sign

5 square feet

1 sign per bay, 2 signs per island

Not applicable

The following additional signs may also be permitted for new automotive sales:

Pole banner sign

24 square feet with no side smaller than 2 feet

2 banners per pole. Pole banner signs shall be no closer than 30 feet apart

Banners shall have a clearance of 12 feet and no portion of the banner should extend above 30 feet, regardless of the height of the pole


b. Changeable copy signs.

  1. One manual or automatic changeable copy sign is permitted for the following uses as follows. Such signs shall comply with dimensional requirements of this section.

    Changeable Copy

    Use

    Maximum Percentage of Sign Area

    Hotels/motels

    10%

    Institutional uses

    100%

    Service stations

    80%

    Theaters

    80%

    Parking garage with publicly available parking

    1 per entry, not to exceed 4 square feet

  2. The copy of existing and conforming monument sign inset panels may be changed or replaced without a sign permit, provided that the size of the panel remains the same and all other criteria of this article are satisfied, if applicable.

  3. The copy of previously approved window signs, applied to the interior of glazed areas, may be changed or replaced without a sign permit, provided that the overall sign area does not exceed the maximum permitted and all other criteria of this article are satisfied. New window sign permits shall be required for new establishments, changes of use, and changes of ownership.


c. Pole signs.

Existing pole sign installations constructed with required permits prior to September 3, 2008, shall be considered legal non-conforming subject to compliance with the maintenance criteria in § 8.5.B.

d. Lawful non-conforming buildings and uses.

Lawful non-conforming buildings and uses mav conform to the regulations as applicable to such building or use. For example, a lawful non- conforming commercial use will follow the sign regulations applicable to commercial uses in § 8.4.A.4., and may have a pole sign if the criteria of division d. above is met.


1. Banner signs.

Banner signs require a sign permit pursuant to § 8.2.

Type

Maximum Size

Maximum Duration/Number

Banner

50 square feet

Except for institutional and governmental uses, 1 sign is permitted for 10 consecutive days not more than 3 times in a 12-month period


2. Temporary sign with an active building permit.

All temporary signs with an active building permit require sign permits pursuant to § 8.2. Signs may be erected at the issuance of a building permit and shall be removed at the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or the expiration of the building permit for the project.

TypeMaximum AreaMaximum NumberMaximum Height

Two of the following signs may be permitted:

Fence wrap

100% of fence area

Not applicable

Limited to the fence/wall height pursuant to § 155.12 of the City Code of Ordinances

Post and panel

Single-family residential districts

8 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

14 feet

Port Everglades Development District (PEDD)

32 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

8 feet

All other districts

50 square feet per side

1 sign per street frontage

14 feet

Wall sign

32 square feet

1 sign per street frontage

Not applicable

Window sign

100% of window area

Not applicable

Not applicable


3. Real estate signs.

All temporary real estate signs require sign permits pursuant to § 8.2. Signs are to be removed within seven days of the sale or lease of the premises.

TypeAreaNumberHeight





Post and panel

Single-family residential districts1

3 square feet per side2

1 sign per street frontage3

5 feet

Multiple-family residential districts

6 square feet per side2

1 sign per street frontage3

7 feet

Port Everglades Development District (PEDD)

32 square feet2

1 sign per street frontage3

8 feet

Non-residential districts

12 square feet2

1 sign per street frontage3

7 feet

Vacant lots within non-residential districts

32 square feet2

1 sign per street frontage3

7 feet

Wall sign

32 square feet

1 sign per street frontage3

Not applicable

Window sign

12 square feet2

1 sign per street frontage3

Not applicable

1 Exempt from sign permit

2 One square foot per strip sign below primary sign, for a maximum of three strip signs

3 Waterfront properties may have one additional sign on the waterfront


4. Temporary non-commercial signs.

All temporary non-commercial signs shall be constantly maintained in a state of security, safety, and good repair, and located so as not to interfere with traffic visibility, pursuant to § 4.22.B.7.

Type

Maximum Area

Maximum Height

Maximum Duration

Non-commercial sign

For residential properties

24 square feet

4 feet

180 days

For non-residential properties

24 square feet per sign; with a total sign area on one property not to exceed one foot per linear foot of street frontage with a maximum of 100 square feet

15 feet

180 days


5. Vehicular signs.

Permitted subject to the vehicle meeting the following conditions:

  1. The vehicle is not within 25 feet of the front property line or 15 feet of a street side property line. The vehicle shall be parked on private property that is paved.
  2. The vehicle is not stationary for more than two continuous hours during the normal working day.
  3. The vehicle is roadworthy, licensed, and consistent with all state mandated motor vehicle statutes.
  4. The signs on the vehicle are permanently attached to the surface of the vehicle.
  5. No sign attached to a vehicle may be illuminated when said vehicle is parked.

(Ord. O-2000-40, passed 12-20-00; Am. Ord. O-2003-35, passed 11-5-03; Am. Ord. O-2008-21, passed 9-3-08; Am. Ord. O-2009-40, passed 12-2- 09; Am. Ord. O-2011-14, passed 5-4-11; Am. Ord. O-2013-02, passed 1- 9-13; Am. Ord. O-2016-22, passed 10-19-16; Am. Ord. O-2017-23, passed 12-6-17; Am. Ord. O-2019-03, passed 3-20-19)