A.   Recognizing that the reasonable display of signs is necessary as a public service and necessary to the conduct of competitive commerce and industry by creating a more attractive economic and business climate within the nonresidential districts of the village.

B.   Reducing the depreciation of property values caused by signs that are architecturally incompatible with surrounding land uses and/or buildings by ensuring that all signs within the village are architecturally compatible with existing land uses and/or buildings with regard to size, location, color, construction, materials, and manner of display.

C.   Enhancing and protecting the physical appearance of all areas of the village by prohibiting unsightly, dissimilar, inappropriate and excessive numbers of signs.

D.   Protecting signs from obstructions by other signs.

E.   Restricting signs and signage lighting which increases the probability of accidents by distracting attention or obstructing vision necessary for traffic safety.

F.   Ensuring that signs enable the public to locate goods and services and facilities in the village without difficulty or confusion.

G.   Recognizing that signs are a constant and very visible element of the public environment and, as such, should meet the same high standards of quality set for other forms of development in the village. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Prohibited Signs In All Districts: The following signs, and all other signs not expressly permitted under this chapter or exempt from these regulations, are prohibited in all districts and shall not be erected, maintained, or, except as provided in section 10-10-11 of this chapter, permitted to continue in any district:

1.   Changeable message signs, blinking, flashing, fluttering, rotating lights, or any illumination which has a change in lighting intensity, brightness or color, except for holiday decorations on a temporary basis and except for such temporary signs permitted in subsection 10-10-14C of this chapter.

2.   Undulating, swinging, rotating, or otherwise moving signs, pennants, banners, flags, balloons, ribbons, streamers and spinners or similar devices in view of any street or highway, except for temporary announcement signs pursuant to subsection 10-10-19A of this chapter and except for such temporary signs permitted in subsection 10-10-14C of this chapter.

3.   Signs utilizing colored lights at any location, or in any manner, where they may be confused or construed as traffic control devices.

4.   Signs utilizing or located on parked or stationary vehicles including, without limitation, trucks, cars, trailers, taxicabs and other vehicular equipment, except for incidental signs painted or affixed to vehicles in the customary manner of identifying the owner of a business.

5.   Signs of any nature affixed to any public or private tree, rock, or fire hydrant, street pole, light pole, or similar structure, except for address and government signs.

6.   Any permanent sign placed in a nonresidential district that does not relate to the activity conducted on the lot on which it is located.

7.   Roof signs.

8.   Temporary illuminated signs, except for such temporary signs permitted in subsection 10-10-14C of this chapter.

9.   Electronic business information displays, except for displays in the CBD district that are approved by the village board pursuant to section 3-12-3 of this code and that are found by the village board, notwithstanding any contrary provisions of this chapter, to comply with all of the following restrictions:

a.   The maximum light level of the display unit does not exceed five hundred (500) nit during daylight hours and three hundred fifty (350) nit at night;

b.   The size of the screen on the display unit does not exceed four hundred (400) square inches in surface area and the display unit including the screen does not exceed nine hundred (900) square inches in surface area;

c.   The depth of the display unit does not exceed six inches (6");

d.   The display unit is permanently affixed to the building exterior and no fastening devices, posts, or supporting columns are visible;

e.   All wiring for the display unit, of any voltage, is contained within the display itself or otherwise completely hidden from view;

f.   The display unit is consistent with the character of the CBD district;

g.   The display unit is installed entirely on private property and no part of the display or any of its supporting structure or equipment may be located on any portion of the public right of way;

h.   The display unit meets all applicable building codes and standards, including, without limitation, title 9 of this code and the Americans with disabilities act (ADA);

i.   The display unit is used only to provide information concerning the nature of the business conducted at the specific location where the display unit is installed, including, without limitation, the specific nature of the services provided by and operation of the business at that location, and is not used to convey any other type of information for any other purpose;

j.   The display unit does not generate or emanate any sound;

k.   The information provided on the display unit remains static while the display unit is operating and does not flash, rotate, or otherwise change; and

l.   The times that the display unit may operate are subject to the review and approval of the Village Board.

B.   Prohibited Signs In The Light Industry And Limited Light Industry Districts: Projecting signs and portable signs are prohibited in the Light Industry and Limited Light Industry Zoning Districts (L-1 and L-2). (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996; amd. Ord. 2011-24, 12-12-2011; Ord. 2019-29, 12-9-2019)

A.   Compliance With Building Code: The construction and structural components of all signs shall be in accordance with the standards and regulations of the Village Building Code.

B.   Wind Pressure; Dead Loads: All signs shall be attached, anchored, and/or fastened so as to withstand wind pressure of at least thirty five (35) pounds per square foot of surface area and of receiving dead loads based on the actual weight of the structure, unless otherwise approved in advance and in writing by the Village Building Commissioner. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Compliance With Electrical Code: Any sign in which electrical wiring, fittings, materials or connections are used shall be in accordance, at all times, with the provisions of the most recent edition of the National Electrical Code (NEC), as amended from time to time, a copy of which is on file at the Village Hall pursuant to State Statute.

B.   Electrical Sign Permit Requirements:

1.   Prior to the issuance of a general sign permit for any such sign, the applicant shall apply for and receive an electrical sign permit from the Village Building Commissioner. Electrical sign permits shall be required for all sign wiring.

2.   Prior to issuing an electrical sign permit, the Building Commissioner shall examine the plans and specifications for all wiring and connections to determine if the same comply with the NEC and all other applicable electrical provisions of this Code. If the electrical sign permit does not comply with the appropriate standards, the electrical sign permit shall be denied.

3.   Any electrical sign permit issued pursuant to this subsection may be revoked or suspended by the Village Building Commissioner if the holder of the permit violates the terms of the sign permit or any of the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Illuminated signs in or within one hundred fifty feet (150') of property located within a residential district shall not be illuminated between the hours of eleven o'clock (11:00) P.M. and six o'clock (6:00) A.M. unless the impact of such lighting beyond the boundaries of the lot on which the sign is located is minor in nature and inconsequential.

B.   Illumination shall be installed or applied only through: 1) a translucent surface; 2) recessed into the sign structure; and 3) if the light source is external to the sign, directed to and concentrated solely on the sign. Wall signs that are backlit shall be permitted to extend an additional three inches (3") from the wall surface for the sole purpose of providing space for the lighting apparatus. No sign shall be internally illuminated; except, that portions of a sign containing lettering, a logo, or both, may be internally illuminated only if all surfaces of the sign surrounding the internally illuminated lettering or logo are opaque.

C.   The use of unshielded lights, including incandescent bulbs on or strung on poles, wires, or any other type of support, to illuminate any sign or area in the vicinity of any sign shall be prohibited. Floodlights, gooseneck reflectors or other external sources of illumination shall be contained within a protective casing.

D.   Signs shall be designed, located, shielded and shaded as necessary to prevent casting a glare or direct light upon property located in any residential district or upon any public street or park.

E.   Illumination shall be constant in intensity and color, and shall not consist of flashing, animated, chasing, scintillating or other illumination conveying the sense of movement. Signs which exhibit only time and temperature are permitted if they otherwise comply with this chapter.

F.   No sign shall be illuminated in such a manner as may interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic movement.

G.   Electrical equipment or wiring used to illuminate signs shall not be visible on any building face. All electrical equipment including lights, lamps and fixtures illuminating ground level signs shall be screened from view. All receptacles or devices used to provide external illumination for wall and freestanding signs shall not protrude more than nine inches (9") from the face of the sign except for ground lighting.

H.   No signs shall utilize exposed neon tubing.

I.   No sign shall be internally illuminated in the Central Business District. For purposes of this section, electronic business information displays are not considered internally illuminated signs.

J.   To minimize the harmful effects of light pollution, lights which illuminate signs shall:

1.   Be illuminated during the hours when intended for viewership;

2.   Light only the portion of the sign that contains text or graphic depictions;

3.   Not be brighter than necessary for a viewer to reasonably identify the content of the sign at night; and

4.   Be fully shielded (other than internal illumination that passes through the text and/or graphics on a translucent sign face). (Ord. 2008-25, 11-10-2008; amd. Ord. 2011-24, 12-12-2011; Ord. 2018-26, 11-12-2018)

A.   Authority To Continue: Any nonconforming sign may be continued so long as it otherwise remains lawful, subject to the regulations contained in this section.

B.   Repair And Maintenance: Normal maintenance and incidental repair or replacement of nonbearing sign elements and electrical wiring and fixtures may be performed on any nonconforming sign; provided, however, that any repair or replacement shall, whenever possible, eliminate or reduce any nonconformity in the element being repaired or replaced; and provided further, that this subsection shall not be deemed to authorize any violation of subsections C, D, E and F of this section.

C.   Alteration, Enlargement, Moving: No nonconforming sign shall be changed or altered in any manner that would increase the degree of its nonconformity; be enlarged or expanded; be structurally altered to prolong its useful life; be moved, in whole or in part, to any other location where it would remain nonconforming; or be altered so as to advertise or identify any use, activity, event, or circumstance other than the use, activity, event, or circumstance advertised and/or identified as of the date on which the sign became a nonconforming sign pursuant to this chapter. A change in sign message that does not otherwise violate the provisions of this subsection or this chapter shall not be deemed to be prohibited by this subsection.

D.   Change Of Sign: A nonconforming sign that has been changed to eliminate its nonconformity or any element of its nonconformity shall not thereafter be changed to restore such nonconformity or nonconforming element.

E.   Damage Or Destruction: Any nonconforming sign damaged or destroyed, by any means, to the extent of thirty five percent (35%) or more of its replacement cost when new shall not be restored but shall be removed or brought into conformity with the provisions of this chapter.

F.   Compliance Or Removal: Any nonconforming sign that loses its status as a nonconforming sign pursuant to this section shall be brought immediately into compliance with the provisions of this chapter or shall be immediately removed. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Nuisance Declared And Prohibited: All signs that have been constructed or erected or are being maintained in violation of the provisions of this chapter ("illegal sign") are hereby declared to be a public nuisance. It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain, or possess an illegal sign located on any property in the Village.

B.   Notice Requirements:

1.   Whenever an illegal sign is found to exist, the Village Building Commissioner shall cause notice of such nuisance ("illegal sign notice") to be served upon: a) the owner and the occupant of the property where the illegal sign is located; and b) the holder of the relevant sign permit (collectively the "notice recipients").

2.   In the illegal sign notice, the Building Commissioner shall order the notice recipients to abate the nuisance within the applicable period of time set forth below (the "response period"):

a.   For permanent illegal signs, within fourteen (14) days after mailing or personal delivery of the illegal sign notice;

b.   For temporary illegal signs, within forty eight (48) hours after mailing or personal delivery of the illegal sign notice; or

c.   For signs that are unsafe or insecure or otherwise constitute an immediate danger to public health, safety, peace, morals, or decency, within twenty four (24) hours after mailing or personal delivery of the illegal sign notice.

3.   The illegal sign notice shall also:

a.   Notify the notice recipients that unless the sign nuisance is abated within the response period, the Village may proceed to abate the nuisance, assess all direct and indirect costs and expenses incurred in connection therewith, including the cost of collection ("abatement costs"), jointly and severally against the notice recipients, and pursuant to and to the fullest extent provided by Illinois law, impose a lien for the abatement costs on the property on which the illegal sign is located;

b.   Include a copy of this chapter and identify the illegal sign and the property on which it is located; and

c.   Be personally served or sent by registered mail to each of the notice recipients.

C.   Opportunity To Abate Nuisance; Failure To Abate: Within the response period, the notice recipients shall cause the nuisance to be removed or otherwise abated. If the notice recipients neglect or refuse to abate the nuisance as required by the illegal sign notice, the Village Building Commissioner shall promptly employ such Village resources as are necessary to abate or remove the nuisance. If the Village Building Commissioner shall cause the abatement of any nuisance, the abatement costs shall be assessed jointly and severally against the notice recipients.

D.   Lien Authorized: In the event that the abatement costs incurred by the Village to abate the public nuisance pursuant to this section are not paid in full upon billing, the Village Clerk may, pursuant to and to the fullest extent provided by Illinois law, file a lien for any unpaid abatement costs against the property on which any such public nuisance is located. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Specific Signs: The following signs shall require issuance of a sign permit from the Village Administrator:

1.   Temporary community group promotional signs, upon submittal of a completed community group promotional signage application.

2.   All temporary signs other than those that are specifically listed as exempt pursuant to subsection 10-10-19A of this chapter.

3.   All portable signs in the public right-of-way other than those prohibited pursuant to section 10-10-4 of this chapter.

4.   Any sign requiring a permit in the Railroad District.

5.   A sign to be constructed or installed on a property located in the Light Industry or Limited Light Industry Zoning Districts (L-1 and L-2) pursuant to an consistent with a master sign plan approved in accordance with Section 10-10-14 F.3. of this code.

B.   Submittal: Upon submittal to the Village Building Commissioner of a completed application for one of the signs identified in subsection A of this section, the Building Commissioner shall refer the application and all other relevant documents to the Village Administrator for consideration and decision. The Village Administrator may require the applicant or other interested parties to submit additional information regarding the proposed sign.

C.   Approval: The Village Administrator shall approve an application submitted pursuant to this section and shall direct the Building Commissioner to issue a sign permit if, based on the sign permit application and all other reliable and relevant evidence, documents, and information, the Village Administrator determines that the proposed sign complies and is consistent with the provisions of this chapter.

D.   Conditions: The Village Administrator may approve a sign permit pursuant to this section subject to such conditions as the Village Administrator shall deem necessary to protect the public welfare and to achieve the purposes of this chapter.

E.   Denial: If the sign permit application and consideration of all other reliable and relevant evidence, documents, and information reveal that the applicant has not satisfied the conditions of subsection C of this section, then the Village Administrator shall promptly notify the applicant that the sign permit application is denied and that no sign permit pursuant to this section shall be issued.

F.   Revocation Or Suspension: Any sign permit issued pursuant to this section may be revoked or suspended by the Village Administrator if the holder of the sign permit violates the terms of the sign permit or any other provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996; amd. Ord. 2019-29, 12-9-2019)

A.   Residence Districts: The following signs shall require a permit and review by the Architectural Board of Review pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter prior to being erected, installed or maintained in the residence zoning districts (C-E, E-1, E-2, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6) in accordance with the following standards:

1.   Municipal, school, library and park district signs.

2.   Portable signs shall not be permitted.

3.   Subdivision signs.

4.   Subdivision "for sale" signs. Any sign advertising the sale of vacant property and/or new residential construction in a subdivision consisting of four (4) or more separate parcels, shall comply with the following specific requirements:

a.   There shall be no more than one sign per subdivision. Such sign shall be located within the private property limits of one of the lots in the subdivision.

b.   No such sign shall exceed twenty four (24) square feet in total surface area or eight feet (8') above grade.

c.   Such sign shall remain only until twenty five percent (25%) of the total parcels in the subdivision or three (3) parcels, whichever is greater, remain to be sold.

B.   Central Business District: The following signs shall require a permit and review by the Architectural Board of Review pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter prior to being erected, installed or maintained in the Central Business Zoning District (CBD). All businesses shall be limited to one awning sign, or one wall sign, or one ground sign, or one projecting sign. In addition, any sign within said district shall comply with the following standards:

1.   Awning Signs: All such signs shall comply with the following:

a.   Such signs shall be constructed and erected so that the lowest portion of the projecting frame shall not be less than seven feet six inches (7'6") above the level of the sidewalk or public thoroughfare, and the lowest portion of a descending skirt shall not be less than six feet eight inches (6'8") above the level of the sidewalk or public thoroughfare.

b.   Awnings signs shall be permitted only on multi-tenant buildings if the Architectural Board of Review has approved an awning sign color scheme for the entire building.

2.   Door Signs: Signs on doors shall be limited to the business name and hours of operation. The area of total signage on a door shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%) of the area of the glass when mounted on glass, or fifteen percent (15%) of the area of the door when mounted on an opaque surface. Said sign shall be placed so as not to interfere with the safe ingress and egress through said door.

3.   Flags And Flagpoles: One flagpole and two (2) flags shall be permitted per zoning lot. Flagpoles shall not be permitted in the public right-of-way. Flagpoles shall be no greater than thirty feet (30') in height and shall be set back a minimum of ten feet (10') from all property lines.

4.   Ground Signs: Such signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

a.   No more than one ground sign per lot shall be allowed, including on lots containing multi-tenant buildings.

b.   Said signs shall not exceed a total surface area of fifteen (15) square feet.

c.   Said signs shall not exceed three feet (3') in height.

d.   Said signs shall not exceed eight feet (8') in length including any foundation and supporting structures.

e.   No extra ground signs shall be permitted for businesses on corner or through lots.

5.   Municipal, Park Signs: Municipal, school, library and park district signs.

6.   On Site Informational Sign: Such signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

a.   No more than two (2) on site informational signs per lot shall be allowed.

b.   Said signs shall not exceed a total surface area of three (3) square feet each.

7.   Portable Signs: Portable signs shall not be permitted.

8.   Projecting Signs: Such signs shall be limited to one per business in accordance with the following specific requirements:

a.   Said sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet in total surface area, not including the frame or support mechanism, and said sign shall project from a wall or facade no more than four feet (4') including the frame or support mechanism.

b.   Said sign shall be no less than seven feet six inches (7'6") above grade at its lowest point and shall not exceed a height of twelve feet (12') at its highest point, but in no event shall said sign exceed the roofline.

9.   Wall Or Fascia Signs: Such signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

a.   No more than one wall or fascia sign shall be permitted per business on the front facade.

b.   Said sign shall not exceed thirty (30) square feet of total surface area or five percent (5%) of the total surface area of the building facade, whichever is less.

c.   Said sign shall be no more than six inches (6") in depth and shall be placed flush to the face of the building on which it is attached. Said sign shall not be permitted to extend above the fascia line or coping line of the wall to which said sign is attached for one story, or located above the first floor elevation of the building.

d.   An additional sign on a corner building with frontage on two (2) public streets shall be permitted; provided, that said additional sign shall be deducted from the total maximum sign area allowed for the front facade.

10.   Window Signs: The aggregate coverage of such signs shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%) per window.

C.   Automotive Park District:

1.   The following signs shall require a permit and review by the Architectural Board of Review pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter prior to being erected, installed or maintained in the Automotive Park Zoning District (AP-1):

a.   All businesses designated as new or used vehicle dealership franchises shall be limited to one awning sign or one projecting sign, and two (2) wall signs, and one ground sign. The permitted awning or projecting sign may be substituted for an additional wall sign.

b.   All businesses not designated as new or used vehicle dealership franchises shall be limited to one awning sign or one projecting sign, or one wall sign, and one ground sign and one window sign.

c.   The size, location, and coloring of all signs requiring a permit shall be reviewed and approved by the Architectural Board of Review.

2.   In addition, any sign within said district shall comply with the following standards:

a.   Awning Signs: All awning signs shall comply with the following:

b.   Banners And Display Signs: Banners, pennants, paper window signs, string lights, searchlights, flashing lights and signs, signs on vehicles (other than vehicle price stickers and model year stickers that each do not exceed 16 inches by 24 inches) and similar signs shall be prohibited at all times and at all locations in the Automotive Park District, except as specifically allowed on a temporary basis by the Village Administrator as provided by section 10-10-13 of this chapter.

c.   Door Signs: No more than one door sign identifying the owner, occupant or business on the premises shall be allowed. Said sign shall be placed so as not to interfere with the safe ingress and egress through said door. The lettering of all door signs shall not exceed five inches (5") in height and shall be placed in the upper half of the door.

d.   Flags And Flagpoles: Flags and flagpoles signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

e.   Ground Signs: Ground signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

f.   Municipal, Park Signs: Municipal, school, library and park district signs.

g.   On Site Directory Sign: On site directory signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

h.   On Site Informational Sign; New Or Used Vehicle Dealership Franchises: On site informational signs for new or used vehicle dealership franchises shall comply with the following specific requirements for new or used vehicle dealership franchises:

i.   On Site Informational Sign For All Businesses Not Designated As New Or Used Vehicle Dealership Franchises: On site information signs for all businesses not designated as new or used vehicle dealership franchises shall comply with the specific requirements as set forth in subsection B6 of this section.

j.   Outdoor Display Pads: Outdoor display pads are regulated by subsection 10-6C-12C of this title.

k.   Projecting Signs: Projection signs shall be no less than seven feet six inches (7'6") above grade at it lowest point and shall not exceed a height of fifteen feet (15') at its highest point. In no event shall said sign exceed the roofline.

l.   Wall Or Fascia Signs: Wall or fascia signs shall not be permitted to extend above the fascia line or coping line of the wall to which said sign is attached.

m.   Window Signs: The aggregate coverage of window signs shall not exceed twenty percent (20%) per window. No sign shall be placed or maintained on the exterior of any window facing upon any street, except for warning and entrance and exit signs.

D.   Office And Research And Service Zoning Districts: The following signs shall require a permit and review by the Architectural Board of Review pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter prior to being erected, installed, or maintained on properties located in the Office and Research and Service Zoning Districts (O&R and S). Each lot shall be limited to one awning sign, or one ground sign, or one wall sign, in accordance with the following standards:

1.   Awning Signs: Such signs shall be regulated exactly as those in the Central Business District, pursuant to the provisions provided in subsection B1 of this section.

2.   Door Signs: No more than one door sign identifying the owner, occupant or business on the premises shall be allowed. Said sign shall be placed so as not to interfere with the safe ingress and egress through said door. The lettering of all door signs shall not exceed five inches (5") in height and shall be placed in the upper half of the door.

3.   Flags And Flagpoles: No more than three (3) flagpoles and four (4) flags shall be permitted per zoning lot. Flagpoles shall not be permitted in the public right-of-way. Flagpoles shall be no greater than thirty feet (30') in height and shall be set back a minimum of ten feet (10') from all property lines.

4.   Ground Signs: Such signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

a.   No more than one ground sign per lot (multi-tenant buildings shall utilize one sign for all tenants) shall be permitted.

b.   Said sign shall not exceed a total area of sixty four (64) square feet per sign face and a total area of one hundred twenty eight (128) square feet for all sign faces combined, calculated by taking the width of the sign multiplied by the height measured from the existing grade to the top of the sign, including any space under the sign.

c.   Said sign shall not exceed twenty feet (20') in height.

d.   A building on a corner or through lot with frontage on two (2) public streets will be permitted a second sign of the same area as specified above.

5.   Municipal, Park Signs: Municipal, school, library and park district signs.

6.   On Site Informational Signs: Such signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

a.   No more than three (3) on site informational signs per lot shall be allowed.

b.   Said signs shall not exceed a total surface area of six (6) square feet each.

7.   Portable Signs: Portable signs shall not be permitted.

8.   Projecting Signs: Projecting signs shall not be permitted.

9.   Wall Or Fascia Signs: Such signs shall comply with the following specific requirements:

a.   No more than one wall or fascia sign shall be permitted per lot on the front facade.

b.   Said sign shall not exceed sixty (60) square feet in total surface area and shall have a height no greater than twenty feet (20') above grade.

c.   Said sign shall be no more than twelve inches (12") in depth and shall be placed flush to the face of the building on which it is attached. Said signs shall not be permitted to extend above the fascia line or coping line of the wall to which said sign is attached.

d.   A building on a corner lot with frontage on two (2) public streets will be permitted a second sign of the same area as specified above.

10.   Window Signs: Window signs shall not be permitted.

E.   RIO District: The following signs shall require a permit and review by the Architectural Board of Review pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter prior to being erected, installed or maintained in the Recreational, Institutional, and Open Space District (RIO) in accordance with the following standards:

1.   Municipal, school, library, park district, and church and houses of worship signs.

2.   Portable signs shall not be permitted.

F.   Light Industry And Limited Light Industry Districts:

1.   Definitions: Wherever the following words or phrases are used, they shall, for the purposes of this subsection 10-10-14.F, have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this Subsection 10-10-14.F.1, except when the context otherwise indicates:

2.   Signs Installed On Properties Without An Approved Master Sign Plan: Except for signs erected, installed, and maintained in accordance with a master sign plan approved pursuant to Section 10-10-19.14.F.3 of this Code, the following signs shall require a permit and review by the Architectural Board of Review pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter prior to being erected, installed, or maintained on properties located in the Light Industry and Limited Light Industry Zoning Districts (L-1 and L-2), and must comply with the following standards:

a.   Awning Signs:

c.   Ground Signs:

d.   Menuboard Signs:

e.   On-Site Informational Signs:

f.   Wall Or Fascia Signs:

g.   Window Signs:

3.   Master Sign Plan:

b.   Requirement To Obtain Approval Of A Master Sign Plan: Except for properties developed prior to ___________, an owner must submit an application for, and obtain approval of, a master sign plan for (a) multi-tenant non-retail and service centers and (b) multi-tenant non-retail developments - individual entries. An owner may, but is no required to, submit an application for, and obtain approval of, a master sign plan for (x) a single tenant development, (y) a multi-tenant tenant non-retail development-shared entry, and (z) multi-tenant non-retail and service centers and multi-tenant non-retail developments - individual entries constructed prior to ___________.

c.   Planned Commercial Developments:

d.   Master Sign Plan Requirements: No master sign plan shall be approved unless it contains the following details and specifications to establish a coordinated design and consistent pattern for all signs to be constructed, installed, and maintained on a zoning lot:

e.   Process And Standards:

f.   Appeal: If the Architectural Board of Review denies an application for a master sign plan, the applicant may appeal the decision to the Village Board.

g.   Amendments To Master Sign Plans: A master sign plan may be amended after in the same manner and subject to the same procedures and limitations as required for approval of an initial master sign plan under the terms of this Section 10-10-14.F. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996; amd. Ord. 2000-20, 12-11-2000; 2009 Code; Ord. 2018-26, 11-12-2018; Ord. 2019-2, 1-28-2019; Ord. 2019-29, 12-9-2019)

A.   Submittal: Upon submittal to the Village Building Commissioner of a completed sign permit application required pursuant to section 10-10-14 of this chapter, the Building Commissioner shall refer the application and all other relevant documents to the Architectural Board of Review for its consideration and decision.

B.   Hearing:

1.   The Architectural Board of Review shall consider the application at a public meeting commenced within thirty (30) days after the completed application is submitted to the Village Building Commissioner.

2.   The Building Commissioner shall provide the applicant seven (7) days' advanced notice of the date of the hearing, unless otherwise agreed to by the applicant.

3.   At the meeting, the applicant and all interested parties shall have an opportunity to be heard and to present testimony and documentary evidence relating to the proposed sign.

C.   Approval: The Architectural Board of Review shall approve a sign application and direct the Building Commissioner to issue a sign permit if, based on the sign application, the testimony and other information presented at the hearing, and all other reliable and relevant evidence, documents, and information, the Architectural Board of Review determines that the proposed sign, including illumination plans if applicable, complies and is consistent with the provisions of this chapter.

D.   Conditions: The Architectural Board of Review may approve a sign permit subject to such conditions as the Architectural Board of Review shall deem necessary to protect the public welfare and to achieve the purposes of this chapter.

E.   Denial: If the sign permit application and consideration of the testimony and other evidence presented at the hearing, as well as all other reliable and relevant evidence, documents, and information, reveal that the applicant has not satisfied the conditions of subsection C of this section, then the Architectural Board of Review shall promptly notify the applicant that the sign permit application is denied and that no sign permit shall be issued. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Appeal From Decision Of Architectural Board Of Review: Appeals from any decision of the Architectural Board of Review: 1) issuing a sign permit pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter; or 2) denying a permanent sign permit application pursuant to section 10-10-15 of this chapter, may be taken by the applicant or any other person adversely affected by any such decision. All such appeals shall be taken pursuant to the procedures provided in subsection D of this section.

B.   Appeal From Decision Of Village Building Commissioner: Appeals from any decision of the Village Building Commissioner: 1) issuing or revoking an electrical sign permit pursuant to section 10-10-7 of this chapter; or 2) revoking an electrical sign permit application pursuant to section 10-10-7 of this chapter, may be taken by the holder of the permit or any other person adversely affected by any such decision. All such appeals shall be taken pursuant to the procedures provided in subsection D of this section.

C.   Appeal From Decision Of Village Administrator: Appeals from any decision of the Village Administrator: 1) issuing or revoking a sign permit pursuant to subsection 10-10-13F of this chapter; or 2) denying a sign permit application pursuant to subsection 10-10-13E of this chapter, may be taken by the applicant or any other person adversely affected by any such decision. All such appeals shall be taken pursuant to the procedures provided in subsection D of this section.

D.   Appeal To Board Of Trustees: All appeals provided pursuant to subsections A, B, and C of this section shall be taken to the Village Board of Trustees by filing a written notice of appeal with the Village Administrator within five (5) days following receipt or notice of the decision from which the appeal is taken. The Village Board of Trustees shall review the relevant sign permit application and any other reliable and relevant evidence, documents, or information, and may receive and consider new evidence. Within thirty (30) days after receipt of the written notice of appeal of the decision from which the appeal is taken, the Village Board shall render its written decision at a regularly scheduled meeting. The action taken by the Village Board of Trustees shall be final. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Name, address and telephone number of applicant.

B.   A scaled drawing showing the lot and building(s) and structure(s) to which the sign(s) is/are to be attached or erected. The exact position of the sign(s) shall be noted on the drawing.

C.   A scaled drawing or plan of the sign(s) showing construction details for the sign(s) including all dimensions, letter sizes and styles, and foundation and/or mounting requirements and height of sign above grade, as applicable.

D.   A concise description of the construction materials and colors of all sign components.

E.   If required by the Village Building Commissioner, a listing of the necessary calculations showing that the structure is designated for dead load and constructed to withstand wind pressure of not less than thirty five (35) pounds per square foot, certified by a licensed structural engineer.

F.   Applications for temporary signs shall also include the date when the sign is to be erected and the date when the sign is to be removed. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996)

A.   Specific Signs Exempt: The following signs shall not require a sign permit or review by the Architectural Board of Review, so long as such signs comply with the following provisions applicable thereto, as well as all other provisions of this chapter, including, but not limited to, provisions regarding the allowable total number and size of signs on a premises:

1.   Address Signs:

a.   Address signs shall not exceed two (2) square feet in total surface area per officially assigned address or the size required by the law, order, rule or regulation, whichever is greater.

b.   Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in Section 10-10-19.A.1.a of this Code, in the Light Industry District (L-1) and Limited Light Industry District (L-2) if:

2.   Bulletin board sign. Such signs shall not exceed thirty (30) square feet (including support members) in total surface area and shall not exceed a maximum of seven feet (7') above grade. With respect to public, charitable or religious institutions where the bulletin board sign is located on the premises of the institution, a maximum of one bulletin board sign per institution shall be permitted.

3.   Business nameplates. One nameplate per proprietor of a lawful business may be erected; provided, that such nameplate shall not exceed one square foot in total surface area.

4.   Central business district signs. The following signs shall be allowed on properties located in the central business zoning district (CBD) in accordance with the following standards:

a.   Auxiliary signs. Such signs shall be placed only on a door or window and shall total no more than two (2) square feet.

b.   Project identification signs. Such signs shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet in total surface area, shall not exceed six feet (6') above grade, and shall only be allowed within the property limits where a commercial building is undergoing construction or alteration.

c.   Real estate signs.

5.   Certain industrial and automotive park district signs. The following signs shall be allowed on properties located in the automotive park, light industry, limited light industry, office and research or service zoning district (AP-1, L-1, L-2, O&R, S) in accordance with the following standards:

a.   Auxiliary signs. Such signs shall be placed only on a door or window and shall total no more than two (2) square feet.

b.   Project identification signs.

c.   Real estate signs.

6.   Certain residential district signs. The following signs shall be allowed on properties located in the residence zoning districts (C-E, E-1, E-2, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6) in accordance with the following standards:

a.   Flags and flagpoles. One flagpole and two (2) flags shall be permitted per zoning lot and shall be set back a minimum of ten feet (10') from all property lines. Flagpoles shall not be permitted in the public right of way.

b.   Private sale signs.

c.   Open house signs.

d.   Project identification signs. One project identification sign not exceeding four (4) square feet in total surface area, the top of which shall be no higher than four feet (4') above grade, shall be allowed within the property limits of a residential building undergoing construction or alteration.

e.   Real estate signs.

7.   Certain signs in the RIO District. The following signs shall be allowed on properties located in the Recreational, Institutional, and Open Space District (RIO) in accordance with the following standards:

a.   Flags and flagpoles. One flagpole and two (2) flags shall be permitted per zoning lot and shall be set back a minimum of ten feet (10') from all property lines. Flagpoles shall not be permitted in the public right-of-way.

b.   Auxiliary signs. Such signs shall be placed only on a door or window and shall total no more than two (2) square feet.

c.   Project identification signs. One ground sign not exceeding twelve (12) square feet in total surface area, the top of which shall not exceed six feet (6') above grade, shall be allowed within the property limits where a building is undergoing construction or alteration.

8.   Political signs.

a.   Size Per Sign: Political signs may be up to six (6) square feet in total area but no more than four feet (4') in height.

b.   Permitted On Private Property: Political signs are permitted within the lot lines on private property at all times with the lot owner's consent. Political signs are not permitted on public rights-of-way at any time.

c.   Location On A Lot: Political signs may be located on a lot between the building and the setback line, except that during an election period political campaign signs may be located between the setback line and the lot line.

d.   Square Area Of All Signs: The total area of political signs on a lot shall not exceed eighteen (18) square feet during periods of time other than election periods. During election periods, no more than one political campaign sign may be displayed for each candidate or issue and the square footage of political campaign signs shall not count against the eighteen (18) square foot maximum.

9.   Governmental signs.

10.   Historic marker signs. Shall not exceed two (2) square feet in total surface area.

11.   Holiday decorations.

12.   Incidental signs. Shall not exceed two (2) square feet in total surface area.

13.   Other signs.

a.   One sign for each church, school, or public or quasi-public organization shall be permitted on the lot where said organization is located. Said sign shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet in total surface area and, if a freestanding sign, shall not exceed a height of five feet (5') above grade. All such signs shall be located within the property limits and not on public rights-of-way. On a corner or through lot, two (2) such signs shall be permitted.

b.   Warning signs, such as "no trespassing", "beware of dog", "no soliciting", provided they do not exceed one square foot in total surface area.

14.   Temporary signs.

a.   Interior nonilluminated advertising signs. Such signs shall be allowed only for the announcement of an event, sale or sale item, provided they do not exceed five percent (5%) of total window area per window and shall not be displayed longer than thirty (30) days.

b.   Announcement signs. Such signs, including balloons and banners, that are erected on residential lots to announce a birth, birthday, anniversary, or other similar event are allowed, provided they shall be displayed no longer than twenty four (24) hours prior to the special occasion and removed within seven (7) days after the sign is first displayed. Temporary announcement signs in nonresidential districts shall comply with section 10-10-13 of this chapter.

B.   Hardship Exemptions: The Village Board of Trustees, following a recommendation from the Architectural Board of Review, may grant or deny an exemption to any of the conditions for issuance of a sign permit set forth in any section of this chapter if the Village Board of Trustees determines that such an exemption is appropriate due to a particular hardship or special unique circumstance and if such exemption will not defeat the fundamental purposes and intent of this chapter as expressed in section 10-10-1 of this chapter, nor be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property in the vicinity of the property for which an exemption is granted. At least ten (10) days prior to consideration of the proposed exemption, pursuant to this subsection, before the Village Board, the Village Administrator shall notify in writing the owners of all property contiguous to or directly across public right-of-way from the lot on which the subject sign is proposed to be placed. The notice shall state the address of the lot on which the subject sign is proposed to be placed and the nature of the exemption.

C.   Exemptions For Master Sign Plans: If an applicant for a master sign plan also applies for an exemption to the requirements set forth in Section 10-10-14.F.2 of this code, the Village Board of Trustees, following a recommendation from the Architectural Board of Review, may grant or deny an exemption to any of the requirements for approval of a master sign plan if such an exemption:

1.   Is appropriate due to a particular hardship, special unique circumstance, or will further the fundamental purposes and intent of Section 10-10-14.F.3.a; and

2.   Such exemption will not be unreasonably detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to the property in the vicinity of the property for which an exemption is granted. (Ord. 96-27, 9-24-1996; amd. 2009 Code; Ord. 2011-17, 9-26-2011; Ord. 2011-27, 12-19-2011; Ord. 2019-2, 1-28-2019; Ord. 2019-29, 12-9-2019)