Jonesburg City Zoning Code
ARTICLE IX
Sign Regulations
Section 400.310 Intent And Applicability.
[Ord. No. 437, 9-9-2025]
A.
Intent. The intent of this Section is to promote the character and visual appeal of the City based on the standards as set forth below while not infringing on the rights of the first amendment of the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Missouri. Any commercial message may also be replaced with a non-commercial message of the same limitations:
1.
Preserve the unique character of the City as reflected in commercial and industrial district areas by ensuring signs contribute to an appropriate sense of place.
2.
Enhance the visual quality of commercial and industrial areas by giving visual priority to buildings, open spaces, streetscapes, and landscape.
3.
Ensure safety of pedestrians, motorists or other users of the public rights-of-way and open spaces by ensuring signs are maintained and structurally safe, do not distract or reduce the effectiveness of public safety signs, and do not represent traffic hazards by virtue of their placement and lighting.
4.
Promote economic viability by assuring that the City will be a visually pleasant place to visit, conduct business, and live.
5.
Provide effective and efficient identification and communication for businesses without excessive competition for visual attention.
6.
Protect property values by minimizing adverse effects of signs on adjacent property, which can occur from conditions such as light trespass, obstructing the views and access, or visual clutter and blight.
7.
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; to preclude signs from conflicting with the principal permitted use of the site and adjoining sites; and to minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on nearby public and private property.
8.
Reduce visual clutter that may otherwise be caused by the proliferation, improper placement, illumination, animation, excessive height, and excessive size (area) of signs which compete for the attention of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
B.
Applicability. All new signs and replacement of existing signs shall require a sign permit demonstrating compliance with these sign standards, unless exempt from a permit by Section 400.350 of this Article. Ordinary maintenance, care or repair of existing signs or change of copy without altering the essential construction elements of an existing sign shall not require a permit for zoning and design standards, but any Electrical or Building Code issues may require permitting. In addition, new commercial or industrial development, redevelopment, or rehabilitation involving multiple buildings or buildings comprising multiple tenants and any development subject to site plan review in conjunction with Article VI, Section 400.275, or as required by the zoning district provisions of Article II, Sections 400.090 through 400.135, shall include information to indicate the type, size, and location of all signage in compliance with the provisions of Subsection 400.330 of this Article and the design standards for the types of signs as shown below.
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Section 400.320 Definitions.
[Ord. No. 437, 9-9-2025]
Terms used in this Article, unless the context otherwise indicates, shall have the following meanings:
Signs that flash or move or otherwise change at intervals more frequently than once each six (6) seconds. Any sign that utilizes the appearance of movement using lighting to depict action or to create a special effect or scene. (Also see "Electronic Message Centers").
Any pennant, propeller, spinner, ribbon, streamer, searchlight, balloon, inflatable sign (static), figurine, statue, or other similar device or ornamentation designed to or having the effect of attracting the attention of potential customers or the general public. An attention getting device shall be considered a sign and shall meet all requirements of this Chapter for a sign.
Any sign attached to, in any manner or otherwise made a part of any awning or awning-like structure, canopy, or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover which projects beyond a building or extends along and projects beyond the wall of the building, generally designed and constructed to provide protection from the weather.
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Any sign constructed of lightweight fabric or similar material. Flags shall not be considered banners.
Any light with one (1) or more beams directed into the atmosphere or directed at one (1) or more points not on the same lot as the light source; also, any light with one (1) or more beams that rotate or move.
An outdoor sign, advertising an article or product not manufactured, assembled, processed, repaired, or sold upon the premises upon which the sign is located or advertising a service not rendered upon the premises upon which the sign is located.
A wall sign in which all components are contained within a frame and not composed of individual letters.
A sign or portion thereof with characters, letters, or illustrations that can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign (not including electronic message centers). A sign on which the message changes more than eight (8) times per day shall be considered an animated sign or electronic message center and not a changeable copy sign for purposes of this Article.
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A sign which is designed and erected solely for the purpose of traffic or pedestrian direction and placed on the property (except as otherwise provided for in this Article) to direct the public to building locations, parking areas, or specific areas of a property or overall development.
Any sign, or portion of a sign, that displays an electronic image, which may or may not include text, where the rate of change is electronically programmed and can be modified by electronic processes. An electronic message center or display may include computer programmable, microprocessor, or controlled electronic or digital video displays and the images can be produced from LED technology, fiber optics, light bulbs, or other illumination devices within the display area. Electronic message centers do not include projected images or messages projected onto buildings or other objects.
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Any sign that is cut into masonry or other surfaces.
To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix, and shall also include the painting of wall signs.
Any surface of a sign upon, against or through which the message is displayed or illustrated on the sign.
A cloth with colors, patterns, etc.
Signs that have flashing lights or intermittent illumination, except as otherwise defined herein, including signs that draw attention to speed limits, stop signs, fire stations, school zones and similar governmental or public uses.
Any sign which has the top part of its face less than ten (10) feet above the ground, and which is erected upon or supported by the ground, a ground planter box or other supports. Such sign may have a base composed of stone, masonry or concrete on which a sign constructed of other materials such as steel, composite materials, or plastic or a combination thereof is mounted. A monument sign may also be composed entirely of masonry materials.
Any sign, which has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes as a part of the sign proper. Such lighting may be internal to the sign structure or external to the sign face but part of the sign structure or mounting.
Any material, which will not ignite at or below a temperature of twelve hundred degrees Fahrenheit (1,200° F.) and will not continue to burn or glow at that temperature.
A sign that has the lowest part of its face at least eight (8) feet above the ground and which is designed to be attached to or a part of a light standard principally designed for illuminating a street, parking, or public space area.
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Any structure attached to a building often forming a canopy or porte cochere over a building entry attached at the building face and suspended from above or held up with posts or columns at it furthest point from the building or a free-standing structure, with one (1) or more supports, onto which signage may be affixed or incorporated.
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A sign, composed of stone, masonry or concrete on which a sign constructed of other materials such as steel, composite materials, or plastic or a combination thereof is mounted. A monument sign may also be composed entirely of masonry materials.
Nits are the standard unit of brightness for electronic and digital signage. The nit, also known as "candelas per square meter," is a unit of measurement for the total brightness over one (1) square meter of an LED display. It is a measure of the light being emitted by the sign in contrast to foot-candles which measure the brightness of the surface area or object that is being lighted.
Any sign that does not conform to the requirements of this Article.
Any sign that is no longer relating to current activities on a premises or lot.
All industrial, commercial and mercantile signs advertising the business on its premises or any of its activities, including permanent theater signs.
Any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material whether or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire, or string, usually in series, designed to move in the wind. Flags are not considered pennants for the purposes of this definition.
Any sign, which has the lowest part of its face, at least ten (10) feet above the ground and which is supported by a freestanding pole except as noted in Subsection 400.330(D)(7) herein.
Any sign not permanently affixed to the ground or other permanent structure. Also, a sign designed to be transported, including, but not limited to: signs designed to be transported by means of wheels, signs converted to A- or T-frames, menu and sandwich board signs, balloons, umbrellas, and signs attached to or painted on vehicles parked and visible from the public right-of-way. Any sign designed to be transported, which has had its means of transportation removed (wheels, trailer, etc.), shall still be considered a portable sign.
Any sign projecting outwardly from the building.
Any sign that has changeable or removable lettering, with the exception of marquee signs.
Any sign located on common ground outside of residential subdivision. Any sign identifying the name of a residential subdivision, which may include a logo and the names of the streets within the subdivision.
Any sign painted, erected, constructed and maintained upon the roof of any building, including wall signs or projecting signs attached to a building wall that extend above the roof line.
An area containing three (3) or more shops, stores and other places of business and located in the "C-1" Local Business District or in an approved Planned Development Commercial District or Mixed Development District under the Zoning Ordinance and providing off-street parking facilities in common for all businesses and their customers.
Any letter, figure, design, symbol, trademark, panel, device or structure designed or intended to convey information to the public in written or pictorial form, including without limitation, billboard, banner sign, directional sign, ground sign, monument sign, portable sign, pole sign, wall sign, roof sign, projecting sign, temporary sign, marquee, awning, canopy, time and weather information and street clock, when placed out of doors or in show display windows intended to be visible from the outside.
The total area of the space to be used for advertising purposes, including the spaces between open-type letters and figures, including the background structure, or other decoration or addition which is an integral part of the sign. Sign supports shall be excluded in determining the area of a sign. The total allowable area for a double-faced sign, where the two (2) faces are not substantially parallel, shall be equal to the allowable area for a single-faced sign.
The molding, battens, cappings, nailing strips, latticing and platforms, which are attached to the sign structure.
Signs which are not permanent in nature and typically are installed for a period of ninety (90) days or less.
Any marquee sign or free-standing sign specifically used in conjunction with the operation of a theater.
Any sign affixed to the front, side or rear wall of any building and parallel to the face of the wall.
Any sign that is intended to be viewed through a show display window.
Section 400.330 Design And Location Standards.
[Ord. No. 437, 9-9-2025]
The following standards shall control the design and location for computation of sign area and height.
A.
Computation Of Area. Except as may be otherwise provided for in this Article the computation of sign area shall be as provided for in Section 400.330 of this Chapter.
B.
Computation Of Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the base of the sign at normal grade to the top of the highest attached component of the sign. Normal grade shall be construed to be the lower of:
1.
Existing grade prior to construction; or
2.
The newly established grade after construction, exclusive of any filling, berming, mounding, or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the sign. In cases in which the normal grade cannot reasonably be determined, sign height shall be computed on the assumption that the elevation of the normal grade at the base of the sign is equal to the elevation of the nearest point of the crown of a public street or the grade of the land at the principal entrance to the principal structure on the lot, whichever is lower.
C.
Quantity Of Signs Per Business. Signage related to business locations shall be limited to the quantities a stipulated below:
1.
Each individual building, or structure, occupied by one (1) business shall be allowed a maximum of two (2) signs, which may be a wall sign, a projecting sign, a ground sign or a pole sign; provided that, there shall not be more than one (1) sign per type, except as detailed in Subsection (C)(2).
2.
For a business located on a lot with multiple street or parking frontage, one (1) wall sign may be permitted on each street/parking side of the building; one (1) projecting sign may be permitted on each street/parking side of the building and one (1) pole sign or ground sign on such lot may be permitted; provided that, there shall not be more than two (2) types of signs.
3.
Where more than one (1) business has a separate exterior entrance to a building, each business shall be allowed two (2) signs, one (1) of which may be a wall sign and the other of which may be an under-canopy sign or a sign as described under Subsection 400.330(D)(9), herein, if applicable.
4.
Two (2) non-illuminated small-scale signs may be lettered on the glass show window or entry door of each storefront of a business.
5.
A canopy or awning sign may be substituted for a permitted wall sign upon determination by the sign commission of a hardship warranting such sign; provided that, such sign is in compliance with all of the requirements of this Chapter and such sign:
a.
Maintains a clearance of at least thirteen (13) feet above grade where there will be vehicular traffic beneath it or maintain a clearance of ten (10) feet above grade where there will be pedestrian traffic beneath it.
b.
Is painted or is of the same material as the awning or canopy when the sign is applied to cloth or similar material.
c.
Is not internally illuminated.
6.
The limitation as to the number of signs shall not include window signs, directional signs, signs directly relating to the ordering area at a drive-thru restaurant, or monument or ground signs that identify a shopping center, business, park, or multi-tenant development.
D.
Standards And Requirements By Sign Type. The standards and requirements are provided by sign type as follows.
1.
Seasonal Signs And Displays. Decorations and displays shall be permitted, subject to the following requirements:
2.
Banner Signs. Banner signs, outside of a building, are prohibited except for the following:
a.
Temporary promotional banners as provided in Subsection 400.330(D)(3).
b.
Temporary banners as provided for in Subsection 400.330(D)(13) (special events).
c.
Temporary banners as provided for in Subsection 400.330(D)(13), (grand openings).
Banners inside buildings may be used as windows signs, as provided for in Subsection 400.330(D)(5), Window Signs.
3.
Temporary Signs.
a.
Temporary ground signs advertising or announcing a future commercial or industrial development of the property on which such signs are located may be maintained subject to the provisions of this Chapter; provided, such signs do not exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area or remain longer than six (6) months.
b.
Temporary ground signs shall be located so that no part of the sign projects within a five-foot setback line from the street right-of-way.
c.
Temporary banner signs, used outside a building shall be permitted at the discretion of the Zoning Enforcement Officer. Such banner signs, if approved, shall be allowed in addition to the quantity allowed under Subsection 400.330(C), Quantity of Signs per Business, for a period of up to thirty (30) days.
d.
Temporary banner signs used outside a building, regarding promotional events shall be permitted at the discretion of the Zoning Enforcement Officer. Such banner signs, if approved, shall be allowed in addition to the quantity allowed under Subsection 400.330(C)(3) and (4) for a period of up to thirty (30) days.
4.
Wall Signs. A wall sign shall comply with the following requirements:
a.
A wall sign shall consist of individual letters with faces and returns of complimentary colors. Lettering on all wall signs shall have a minimum return of one (1) inch to provide a three-dimensional style. Such sign shall not project beyond the building for a distance of more than twelve (12) inches and no less than four (4) inches. If illumination is to be provided, the sign shall be internally illuminated, or backlighted, so as to prevent glare upon the street or adjacent property.
b.
A wall sign shall be constructed of incombustible materials, except that moldings and capping may be made of wood. A wall sign shall be safely and adequately attached to the building. No wall sign shall cover the doors or windows of a building, or otherwise prevent free ingress and egress to or from any window, door or fire escape of a building.
c.
A wall sign shall not extend downward nearer than eight (8) feet to the ground.
d.
No wall sign shall extend above the roof line.
e.
A building occupied by a single occupant that is not on a corner lot may have a wall sign with an area up to twenty percent (20%) of the area of the front wall of the building on which the sign is to be installed. The maximum permitted sign area on any one (1) building occupied by a single user shall not exceed two hundred fifty (250) square feet.
f.
A building occupied by a single occupant that is located on a corner lot may have one (1) wall sign on each street frontage, not exceeding the size limitations as set forth in Subsection (B)(5) of this Section for each sign.
g.
A building with multiple occupants that is not on a corner lot shall be permitted to have one (1) wall sign no greater than one hundred fifty (150) square feet, depicting the name or use of the building. In addition, each occupant who has a separate exterior business entrance may erect a wall sign which may be twenty percent (20%) of the front wall area of such business, but not greater than one hundred (100) square feet. Such a wall sign may only be located on the portion of the building directly in front of the business said sign is advertising.
h.
A building with multiple occupants that is on a corner lot shall be permitted to have one (1) wall sign no greater than one hundred fifty (150) square feet, on each street frontage, depicting the name or use of the building. In addition, each occupant who has a separate exterior business entrance located at the corner of the building may erect one (1) wall sign on each street frontage, of up to twenty percent (20%) of the wall area facing the street, but not greater than one hundred (100) square feet for each sign. Such a wall sign may only be located on the portion of the building directly in front of the business said sign is advertising.
i.
Box wall signs are not a permitted sign but can be approved by the Sign Commission on a case-by-case basis.
5.
Window Signs. All window signage shall comply with the following requirements:
a.
Decals indicating store acceptance of charge cards or affiliations with organizations may be affixed to the window glass or door glass.
b.
Vinyl lettering may be located on the door glass; provided that, the lettering does not cover more than twenty percent (20%) of the door glass within which the lettering is placed.
c.
The total amount of window signage shall not be greater than twenty percent (20%) of the total window area of the business when visible from the principal street.
d.
For multiple occupant buildings, the preceding regulations apply to each occupant.
6.
Ground Sign.
a.
No ground sign shall be at any point over ten (10) feet above the ground level.
b.
Every ground sign shall be stoutly constructed and anchored in a secure and substantial manner.
c.
The ends of all such signs shall be at least six (6) feet from any wall or fence or any obstruction, which would prevent a clear passage around.
d.
No ground sign shall exceed seventy-five (75) square feet for each face. Not more than one (1) ground sign shall be erected on any one (1) lot or tract of land.
e.
No ground sign when erected on a lot fronting on intersecting streets shall be erected within sixty (60) feet of the intersection of the streets.
f.
Ground signs shall be located such that no part of the sign projects beyond a five-foot setback from the street right-of-way.
g.
In the case of a multiple occupant building, one (1) ground sign shall be permitted depicting the name or use of the building. Such a sign may include names of the occupants of the building. No such sign shall be permitted for exclusively an individual occupant of the building.
7.
Pole Signs.
a.
Pole signs shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet for each face, including air space between parts of the sign situated on private property.
b.
The maximum height of any pole sign shall be two and one-half (2 1/2) times the largest sign face dimension but not higher than twenty-eight (28) feet. The height restriction may be waived or modified by the Zoning Enforcement Officer if existing signage for an adjacent business would block a proposed sign.
c.
The pole sign shall be so located that no part of the sign projects beyond a five-foot setback line from the street right-of-way.
d.
No pole sign shall extend downward nearer than ten (10) feet to the ground or pavement.
e.
A pole sign shall be constructed of incombustible material.
f.
Pole signs shall be proportioned so that the ratio of the height-to-width of the sign face is not less than 1/2:1, or that the ratio of height-to-width does not exceed 3:1.
g.
Double-faced pole signs shall be constructed with parallel faces having identical size and shape so that the back of a sign face is not visible.
h.
The size of a support pole shall be proportioned and harmonious to the overall size of the sign. The support pole shall be a color compatible with the sign face and frame.
i.
A pole sign may include an electronic message center subject to the provisions of Subsection 400.330(D)(8) of this Section. The size of the electronic message center shall be limited to seventy-five percent (75%) of the area of the primary pole sign, not to exceed fifty (50) square feet.
j.
One (1) pole sign for each building fronting a public street, which is occupied by only one (1) occupant, shall be allowed.
k.
In the case of a multi-occupant building, one (1) pole shall be allowed. Such a sign may include a list of the occupants of the building.
8.
Electronic Message Centers Or Displays (hereinafter referred to as Display). In order to provide for the safe and appropriate use of electronic message display signs, the installation of signs containing such components, the regulations as follows are intended to ensure that the use of such signs will not have a detrimental effect on the surrounding area or the public welfare and will be consistent with the purpose and intent of this Article and Chapter. The requirements for electronic message centers are only applicable to signs installed after the effective date of this Code Section. Existing electronic message centers which were approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission prior to the effective date of this Code Section are allowed to continue to operate until such time as the sign becomes non-operational or is substantially modified.
a.
Electronic message display signs shall be subject to the site plan review and approval process for a conditional use permit in accord with the provisions of Article VI of this Chapter.
b.
Modes Of Operation. The following modes of operation are described for electronic message signs:
(1)
Static. Signs which include no animation or effects simulating animation.
(2)
Fade. Signs where static messages are changed by means of varying light intensity, where the first message gradually reduces intensity to the point of not being legible and the subsequent message gradually increases in intensity to the point of legibility.
(3)
Dissolve. Signs where static messages are changed by means of varying light intensity or pattern, where the first message gradually appears to dissipate and lose legibility simultaneous to the gradual appearance and legibility of the subsequent message.
(4)
Traveling. Signs where the message is changed by the apparent horizontal movement of the letters or graphic elements of the message.
(5)
Scrolling. Signs where the message is changed by the apparent vertical movement of the letters or graphic elements of the message.
(6)
Animation/Video. Signs that incorporate animation elements to the message display or contain video including such elements that are repeated or change on a recurring basis.
c.
Standards. The following describes standards for the installation and use of electronic message display signs:
(1)
Zoning Districts. Electronic message display signs shall be permitted in the "C" and "I" Zoning Districts subject to meeting the standards and criteria described herein and the requirements of Section 400.330(D) of this Article and as may be applicable to the other requirements for the type of sign in which the electronic message is to be incorporated (i.e., ground, monument, or pole types).
(2)
Message Displayed. Electronic message displays may display text, a graphic such as a company logo, or a photograph or a combination thereof. No scrolling, animation, video, horizontal or vertical travelling, fade or dissolve of the overall message or within elements of the overall message display is permitted.
(3)
Transitions. Electronic message display signs shall be operated in static display mode only except for transitions between messages which shall be instantaneous. There shall be no video, animation, fades, dissolves, travelling, or scrolling between messages.
(4)
Display Time. Electronic message display signs shall be permitted to change their message no more than once every thirty (30) seconds.
(5)
Size. The area of the electronic display panel shall not be more than fifty (50) square feet in size or fifty percent (50%) of the total area of the sign, whichever is more restrictive.
(6)
Electronic message displays must be designed and equipped to immediately freeze the display in one (1) position or discontinue if a malfunction occurs.
(7)
No sounds can be emitted from an electronic message center.
(8)
Height. The maximum height, as measured from the prevailing grade to the top of the electronic message display panel on a ground mounted sign will be ten (10) feet, for any pole sign shall be two and one-half (2 1/2) times the largest sign face dimension, but not higher than twenty-eight (28) feet.
d.
Hours Of Operation. Where electronic message display signs may face residential property in adjacent residential zoning districts, such displays shall be turned off by 10:00 P.M. or by a time established in conjunction with the site plan review and approval process.
e.
Sign Type. Electronic message display signs may be incorporated into freestanding (ground or pole) signs.
f.
Number. Only one (1) electronic message display sign shall be allowed as part of a shopping center sign and only one (1) such sign shall be permitted per street frontage for a shopping center. For individual uses, only one (1) electronic message display sign shall be permitted on the premises per use.
g.
Distance From Residential Use. Electronic message displays signs shall not be located within one hundred (100) feet of any residence or residential zoning district as measured from the sign to the property line of the residential use.
h.
Distance From Other Signs. Electronic message display signs must be spaced a minimum of one hundred fifty (150) feet from other electronic message display signs.
i.
Lighting Intensity And Color. Daytime lighting intensity must automatically re-set to a lower level for nighttime hours. To ensure compliance with this Subsection, the sign must have an automatic brightness control linked to ambient light levels.
(1)
Brightness. Electronic message display shall come equipped with dimming technology that automatically adjusts the display's brightness based on ambient light conditions and complies with maximum nighttime brightness levels and may be adjusted to lower levels if, upon determination by the Zoning Enforcement Officer, the display is deemed to represent an adverse impact on adjoining property or a hazard to public safety.
(2)
Electronic message display signs shall not exceed a maximum illumination of three hundred (300) NITS or five hundred (500) foot-candles during nighttime ours per square meter (between dusk and dawn) and a maximum illumination of five thousand (5,000) NITS or five thousand (5,000) foot-candles per square meter during daylight hours.
j.
Video Or Message Displays.
(1)
Video or message displays that contain large background areas of bright white or other high intensity colors are prohibited.
(2)
The owner of an electronic message center shall arrange for an annual certification of the light output standards established in subsection 400.330(D)(8)(i), of this Article showing compliance by an independent contractor and provide said certification to the City of Jonesburg.
9.
Shopping Center Identification Signs.
a.
For the purpose of this provision, a shopping center shall be a commercial development consisting of retail and service businesses having a total leasable area of more than twenty thousand (20,000) square feet.
b.
Any shopping center may erect a monument sign having a maximum height of twenty-five (25) feet above grade on the property of the shopping center. However, no such sign shall be located within the forty (40) foot sight distance triangle of any property corner lot as defined in Article I, Section 400.050 of this Chapter or within a similar area at the intersection of any property entry drive intersection with a public street that may obstruct the view for vehicles exiting the shopping center. Such sign may be composed of stone, masonry, plastic masonry, or such other materials as are deemed consistent with the shopping center improvements, on which individual signs may be placed in accordance with the following standards:
(1)
Maximum total sign area of all signs: two hundred (200) square feet. This provision may be modified by the Zoning Enforcement Officer and/or the Planning and Zoning Commission to ensure that all proposed tenants are provided adequate signage.
(2)
The size of all letters shall be proportionate or harmonious in size to the overall area of each sign.
(3)
The background of each sign shall be compatible with the background of all other signs on the monument.
(4)
The total area of all of the signs located on such monument shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of the total area of the monument. In making such a determination, the area of each sign shall be calculated on the basis of the total area of the background of each sign.
(5)
The content of such signs shall be limited to the name of the shopping center and the name of the occupants of such shopping center.
10.
Office Building Identification Signs.
a.
For the purpose of this provision, an office building shall be any building where more than fifty percent (50%) of the building's leasable space is occupied for office usage.
b.
Any building qualifying as an office building hereunder may erect a monument having a maximum height of fifteen (15) feet above grade on the property of the office building, but in no case shall the sign be higher than the roof line, and shall be so located as not to obstruct the view for exiting the office building, and composed of stone, masonry, plastic masonry, or such other materials as are deemed consistent with the office building improvements, on which individual signs may be placed in accordance with the following standards:
(1)
Maximum total sign area of all signs: one hundred fifty (150) square feet.
(2)
Minimum sign letter size: eight (8) inches.
(3)
The background of each sign shall be compatible with the background of all other signs on the monument.
(4)
The total area of all of the signs located on such monument shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of the total area of the monument. In making such determination, the area of each sign shall be calculated on the basis of the total area of the background of each sign.
11.
Residential Subdivision Signs. For each residential subdivision entry street, a residential subdivision sign may be installed by a subdivision governing body and or subdivision residents, subject to the following regulations:
a.
Any such sign shall be a ground sign, as defined in Subsection 400.330(D)(6) and shall not exceed twenty-five (25) square feet in area, excluding any supports in the case of a ground sign.
c.
Submission Of Plans. The plan for any proposed residential subdivision identification sign shall be submitted to the Zoning Enforcement Officer, who may impose such specifications, as deemed necessary, for safety purposes prior to granting approval.
d.
Location And Placement. Any such sign shall be located on private property.
12.
Billboards Near Highways In Industrially Or Commercially Zoned Areas. Billboards shall be subject to the approval of a conditional use permit in accord with the provisions of Article VI, Section 400.275 of this Chapter. Billboards shall only be located in industrially or commercially zoned areas within six hundred sixty (660) feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way and visible from any part of the traveled way of a highway which is a part of the interstate or primary system in this State, subject to the following regulations or any superseding regulations of the Code of State Regulations for the Missouri Department of Transportation, Title 7, Division 10, Chapter 6.
a.
Size. The maximum sign area for any one (1) billboard shall be one thousand two hundred (1,200) square feet with a maximum height of thirty (30) feet above preexisting grade and a maximum length of sixty (60) feet. Maximum size limitations shall apply to each side of a billboard.
b.
Lighting.
(2)
No revolving or rotating beam or beacon of light that simulates any emergency light or device shall be permitted as part of any billboard. No flashing, intermittent, or moving light or lights will be permitted except scoreboards and other illuminated signs designating public service information, such as time, date or temperature, or similar information, will be allowed.
(3)
External lighting, such as floodlights, thin line and gooseneck reflectors are permitted; provided that, the light source is directed solely upon the face of the sign and is effectively shielded so as to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed into any portion of the main traveled way of the highway or onto adjacent property, and the lights are not of such intensity so as to cause glare, impair the vision of the driver of a motor vehicle, or otherwise interfere with the driver's operation of a motor vehicle.
(4)
No sign shall be so illuminated that it interferes with the effectiveness of, or obscures, an official traffic sign, device or signal.
(5)
Site lighting shall not spill over to adjacent sites or properties.
c.
Spacing.
(1)
On interstate highways and freeways on the Federal-aid primary system, no billboard shall be erected within one thousand five hundred (1,500) feet of an existing billboard on the same side of the highway.
(2)
On non-freeway Federal-aid primary highways, no billboard shall be erected within one hundred (100) feet of an existing sign or billboard.
(3)
No billboard shall be located in such manner as to obstruct or otherwise physically or visually interfere with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, including directional signs, signals, or devices, or obstruct or physically interfere with a motor vehicle operator's view of approaching, merging or intersecting traffic.
d.
Location. To provide a safety zone and to prevent injury or property damage to residentially zoned properties resulting from billboard collapse, no portion of a billboard shall be located within two hundred fifty (250) feet of any residentially zoned property.
e.
Other Regulations. All other provisions of this Chapter relating to the design and construction of signs and permit requirements shall apply equally to billboards authorized under this Section.
13.
Special Event Signage. The following signs are permitted for a special promotional event authorized under Section 400.330(D)(3) of this Chapter:
a.
Pennants and streamers that are securely fastened.
b.
Search lights, flashing lights, inflatables, and balloons.
The Zoning Enforcement Officer must approve all proposed signage prior to the event.
14.
Bus Shelter Signage. Signs shall be permitted on bus shelters within the City upon the approval of the Zoning Enforcement Officer. The size of the sign shall be limited to twenty-four (24) square feet. A permit for each sign shall be required.
15.
Reader Board Signs.
a.
Manual reader board signs shall not be permitted for use except by churches, schools, libraries, governmental agencies, and civic organizations.
b.
Manual reader board signs shall not exceed forty (40) square feet in area.
c.
Movie theater signs require the approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
16.
Portable Signs.
a.
Portable signs are prohibited except that vehicles that are used in the normal day-to-day operation of the business may have a sign attached or painted on such vehicle identifying the name, address, and type of business.
b.
A business may park up to two (2) vehicles of the light delivery type [rated less than one (1) ton manufacturers rated hauling capacity] containing such signage in front of the business identified on the vehicle. Additional vehicles may be approved by the Sign Commission.
17.
Projecting Signs. A projecting sign shall comply with the following requirements:
a.
A projecting sign not exceeding twenty-five (25) square feet in area for each building fronting a public street shall be allowed; provided that, if a building is occupied by only one (1) user and the front wall area adjoining the public street on which the building is located exceeds five hundred (500) square feet, such building may have a projecting sign with an area equal to ten percent (10%) of the area of the front wall of the building but shall not exceed two hundred fifty (250) square feet.
b.
A building located on a corner lot may have one (1) projecting sign on each street side of the building, but not exceeding the size limitations as set forth in Subsection (D)(17)(a) of this Section for each sign.
c.
No projecting sign shall extend more than four (4) feet six (6) inches from the building, including structural supporting or extending members attached to the building.
d.
No projecting sign shall project nearer to the curb line than two (2) feet.
e.
No projecting sign shall extend downward nearer than ten (10) feet to the ground or pavement.
f.
No projecting sign shall extend above the roof line.
g.
Every projecting sign shall be constructed of non-combustible material and braced to withstand a horizontal wind pressure of not less than thirty (30) pounds for every square foot of surface exposed and shall be securely attached to the building wall in an approved manner.
18.
Directional Signs. Small post signs indicating the direction to a business (exit and entrance) may be erected and maintained subject to the following:
a.
The Zoning Enforcement Officer shall investigate and make a determination that the sign will serve a public purpose.
b.
Such sign shall not exceed eight (8) square feet in area and shall be installed in a manner and at a height so as not to interfere with the ordinary and lawful use of the street. Such sign may include the corporate logo of the business.
19.
Marquees; Marquee Signs.
a.
Marquees and marquee signs may extend to a point two (2) feet back of the curb line, but no such marquee or marquee sign shall extend downward nearer than eleven (11) feet above the level of the sidewalk at its lowest level.
b.
An illuminated sign which may be placed on a marquee which may extend the entire length and width of the marquee; provided, such sign does not extend more than nine (9) feet above nor one (1) foot below such marquee, but under no circumstances shall the sign or signs have a vertical height greater than nine (9) feet.
c.
No additional sign shall be attached to a marquee.
20.
Under Canopy Signs.
a.
Any under canopy sign bearing only the name of the business to which the sign is attached, and which sign does not exceed four (4) square feet in area shall be allowed.
b.
No under canopy sign shall project horizontally beyond the canopy or nearer to the curb line than two (2) feet.
c.
No under canopy sign shall extend downward nearer than ten (10) feet to the ground or pavement.
d.
Every under-canopy sign shall be constructed of non-combustible material and shall be securely attached to the canopy in an approved manner.
21.
Engraved Signs Or Tablets.
a.
Engraved signs and tablets shall not exceed four (4) square feet.
b.
Tablets may be secured to the building when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials but shall not exceed four (4) square feet.
c.
There shall be a maximum of two (2) engraved signs or tablets per business or residence. Additional engraved signs or tablets may be approved by the Zoning Enforcement Officer.
Section 400.340 Permit Requirements And Exceptions.
[Ord. No. 437, 9-9-2025]
A.
Permit Required. No sign shall be erected, nor the location of any existing sign changed, until the Zoning Enforcement Officer has issued a permit.
1.
An application for a sign permit shall be accompanied by plans and specifications. The plans and specifications must be drawn to scale and shall include the dimensions, material, and details of construction of the proposed sign, together with an accurate colored rendering of the proposed sign. A site plan of the property and/or building elevations indicating where the sign(s) is(are) to be located must also be provided.
2.
Before a permit can be granted for the installation of any sign, the applicant for said permit must submit evidence of an agreement signed by the owner or owners of said property granting permission to the applicant to install said sign and binding said owner or owners, their heirs and assigns irrevocably, to permit the City through its agents to enter on said real property for the purpose of removing said sign or signs as provided under the provisions of this Chapter and waiving, and holding the City harmless from any damage to said real property occasioned by said sign removal.
3.
The Zoning Enforcement Officer may prescribe suitable regulations not inconsistent with the provisions of this Section concerning the form and content of all applications for the various types of permits herein required.
B.
Permit Fees. A permit is required for the erection of signs.
1.
Before the issuance of each required sign permit, a fee in the amount established by the Board of Aldermen shall be paid to the City.
2.
For each temporary sign requiring a permit, the fee shall be in the amount established by the Board of Aldermen.
3.
The provisions of the Building Code and Electrical Code of the City shall govern the construction, alteration and maintenance of all signs.
4.
If the sign is illuminated, an electrical permit and inspection by a County electrical inspector shall be required. A fee covering the electrical permit and inspection shall be charged as provided by the Electrical Code.
C.
Permit Fee Exceptions. Signs listed in Subsection 400.350(A) of this Article are not subject to payment of permits fees and may be erected according to the standards provided for therein.
Section 400.350 Exemptions And Prohibitions.
[Ord. No. 437, 9-9-2025]
A.
Exemptions. Unless elsewhere specified in this Article, the following signs are exempt from the preceding requirements contained in Subsections 400.330(D)(1 to 20) of this Article:
1.
A sign advertising the sale or lease of a lot or space on which the sign is placed. Such signs may not be illuminated signs and may not exceed eight (8) square feet in area in residential districts and thirty-two (32) square feet in non-residential districts. Only one (1) real estate sign may be placed on the lot or premises to which it pertains, except that two (2) such signs may be placed on double frontage lots. A real estate sign shall be removed within seven (7) days after the buyer and seller are mutually bound to conclude the sale or lease of the lot or space to which the sign pertains. One (1) additional sign is permitted on residential properties, from the hours of 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M., indicating the presence of an open house;
2.
Temporary signs not over twenty-five (25) square feet in area, for public, charitable or religious institutions, which are located on the premises of said institutions;
3.
One (1) construction sign per project identifying the parties involved in the construction to occur or occurring on the lot or premises on which the sign is placed. Such signs may not be illuminated signs and may not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in surface area in residential districts, or thirty-two (32) square feet in surface area in commercial districts. Such signs may identify the owner's name, the architect or engineer for the project, the contractor or contractors for the project, the financing arrangements for the project, and the purpose for which the project is intended. No products or services may be advertised on the construction signs. One (1) construction sign may be placed on each part of the lot or on each face of the building which borders or is oriented to a public street. A construction sign shall be removed within fourteen (14) days after use commences for the project for which the sign pertains;
4.
Memorial signs or tablets, when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials;
5.
Traffic or other municipal signs, legal notices, railroad crossing signs, danger, emergency, or non-advertising signs;
6.
Signs or posters announcing candidates seeking public political office, political and public issues, or any other non-commercial message provided that such signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet;
7.
Professional plates not exceeding three (3) square feet in area;
9.
Occupational signs not over four (4) square feet in area (on building);
10.
Signs erected inside a building; and
11.
Directional signs indicating the location of an open house from the hours of 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. only on the day of an open house in a residential area. Such signs shall not exceed four (4) square feet in area.
B.
Signs And Devices Prohibited. The following signs and devices are prohibited in the City:
1.
Conflicting Signs. Signs or devices, which by color, location or design resemble or conflict with traffic control signs or devices;
2.
Exterior use of advertising devices such as pennants affixed on poles, wires, or ropes, streamers, wind operated devices, inflatables, search lights, flashing lights, and any other type of fluttering devices, except as provided for in Section 400.330;
3.
Letters or pictures in the form of advertising printed or applied directly on the wall of a building;
4.
Paper posters and painted signs applied directly to the wall of a building or pole or other support, except for signage approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission as set forth in Subsection 400.330(C) of this Article;
5.
Signs painted on the inside or outside of windows, not including etched glass;
6.
Signs advertising an article or product not manufactured, assembled, processed, repaired or sold upon the premises upon which the sign is located, unless otherwise permitted by ordinance;
7.
Signs advertising a service not rendered on the premises upon which the sign is located, unless otherwise permitted by ordinance;
8.
Revolving signs of any type;
9.
Signs in residential districts, except as otherwise permitted herein;
10.
Signs with more than two (2) faces;
11.
Roof signs;
12.
Banners, pennants or flags suspended from an awning;
13.
Exterior banner signs, except as provided in Subsection 400.330(D)(2);
14.
Signs placed in such a way as to create a traffic hazard;
15.
Portable signs, except as provided in Subsection 400.330(D)(16);
17.
Signs erected or maintained in such a manner that prevents free ingress to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape. No sign of any kind shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape;
18.
Ground or wall signs lighted with gooseneck or other types of external reflectors erected and maintained in a manner that creates glare upon the street, access drives, adjacent property, or may impact the vision of pedestrians on adjacent sidewalks; and
19.
Signs with exposed raceways.
C.
Signs And Devices Requiring Approval Of The Planning And Zoning Commission. The following signs and devices require approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission prior to receiving a permit: