The purpose of this chapter is to create the legal framework for a comprehensive and balanced system of signage that will preserve the right of free speech and expression, provide an easy and pleasant communication between people and their environment, and avoid the visual clutter that is potentially harmful to traffic and pedestrian safety, property values, business opportunities, and community appearance. With these purposes in mind, it is the intent of this chapter to authorize the use of signs that are:

1.

Compatible with their surroundings;

2.

Appropriate to the activity that displays them;

3.

Expressive of the identity of individual activities and the community as a whole; and

4.

Legible in the circumstances in which they are seen.

Any sign that can be displayed under the provisions of this chapter may contain a noncommercial message.

It is the intention of this section to classify all signs. If a sign is not specifically mentioned herein, the city manager or his/her designee shall choose the most appropriate classification(s) for that sign.

Activity sign means a sign used to identify a nonprofit use (such as a place of worship or school or governmental/public facility) and the activities it hosts or sponsors. It may be attached or freestanding.

Address sign means an attached sign indicating the address of the structure, dwelling unit, or business to which it is attached. It may be in the form of an awning sign.

Advertising sign means a sign that specifies, either directly or indirectly, a good or service either sold or offered for commercial gain. It may be attached or freestanding.

Animated sign means a sign located on private property that uses motion of any part, by any means, including wind power, or displays flashing, oscillating or intermittent lights. It may be attached or freestanding.

ATM sign means an attached sign that identifies the name of the machine or the business entity that owns an automatic teller machine and that identifies the financial services networks that are accepted at that automatic teller machine.

Attached sign means a wall sign.

Awning means any movable roof-like structure, cantilevered or otherwise entirely supported from a building, so constructed and erected as to permit it to be readily and easily moved.

Awning sign means a sign either painted on or attached to an awning.

Banner sign means an advertising sign that cannot be considered a flag, having characters, letters or illustrations applied to cloths, paper, plastic, or fabric of any kind, with only such material for backing.

Bench sign means a sign that is attached to, painted on or incorporated in a bench of any fashion, size, or construction.

Box sign means an attached sign where the face is enclosed, bordered, or contained within a box-like structure, frame or other device. Also known as a cabinet sign.

Building frontage means the length of the front facade of a building.

Bulletin board means a board on which pedestrian-scaled notices are posted. It may be attached or freestanding.

Bus shelter sign means a sign that is painted on or incorporated into the material structure of a bus shelter.

Canopy sign means a non-illuminated pedestrian-oriented sign that is attached to the underside of a canopy structure either parallel or perpendicular to the facade when such canopy structure is attached to or supported by another structure. It is typically known as a colonnade sign.

Channel letter sign means a sign comprised of individually illuminated letters and graphics, with each letter or graphic made up of a U-channel base, with colored or clear Plexiglas face.

Channel letter sign, reverse means a sign comprised of individually illuminated letters or graphics made of metal faces and returns (sides of letters) with a clear plastic backing, designed to be mounted a short distance away from the wall and create a halo-lit effect.

City public information sign means a sign erected by the city for the purpose of providing noncommercial public information and announcements of city-sponsored meetings, events, and activities to the community. It is a freestanding sign that includes an electronic marquee with animated text within the sign's structure.

Clock means a device that displays the current time. It may be attached or freestanding.

Code enforcement inspector/officer means any authorized agent or employee of the city whose duty it is to enforce codes and ordinances enacted by the city. The terms "officer" and "inspector" shall have the identical meaning.

Community information sign means a sign, located on and relating to, an activity on or near the premises upon which the sign is located. Examples include "Children at Play," "Crime Watch Area," "Drug Free School Zone," and "Adopt a Highway." It may be attached or freestanding.

Contractor sign means a sign denoting the architect(s), engineer(s), contractor(s) or subcontractor(s) on the premises of work under construction.

Courtesy notice sign means a sign required per land development regulations (LDR) for informing the public as to the location and nature of a proposed land use action by the city.

Development sign means a freestanding sign placed on a property outlining the name and type of development that is proposed for the site per an approved site plan.

Digital clock means an electronic sign that displays only the time, date, or temperature. It may be attached or freestanding.

Directional sign means a sign relating to navigation on the property on which it is located, such as "Entrance," "Exit," "Parking," "Drive-thru," "Loading," or that identifies the name of a place or location on the property on which it is located with a directional symbol. It may be attached or freestanding.

Directory sign means an attached index consisting of the names of tenants of an office building, shopping center, or other multi-tenant business complex.

Elevation. See "facade."

Exempt sign means a sign exempt from the permitting requirements, but not the other requirements of this chapter.

Facade means the entire vertical building face of a building, including any parapet.

Family event sign means a sign on a residential lot indicating a birthday, wedding, anniversary, or family reunion, are examples of family events. It may be attached or freestanding.

Flag means a piece of fabric with a color or pattern representing a government or other noncommercial organization or idea. It may be attached or freestanding.

Freestanding sign means a self-supported structure not attached or affixed in any way to a building or any other structure.

Gasoline price sign means an attached sign used solely for the purposes of stating the price of gasoline or diesel fuel (may be attached to a monument identification sign).

Grand opening sign means an attached sign temporary in nature that is used to denote the fact that a new business or residential development is present.

Hazardous sign means a sign that approximates a traffic sign and is not placed for a legitimate public safety reason, or which may include words such as, "Stop," "Danger," "Caution," "Look," or similar words. It may obscure a traffic sign or a directional sign. It may be attached or freestanding.

Identification sign means a sign that indicates the name of a business or group of businesses, organization, activity, residence, or residential development. It may be attached or freestanding.

Illegal sign means a sign erected in violation of any ordinances in effect at the time of the sign's erection or installation.

Illuminated sign, external means a sign having the characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines illuminated by electric lights or neon gas where the light source is visible. This does not include illumination from a source other than the sign. It may be attached or freestanding.

Illuminated sign, internal means an illuminated sign whose light source is concealed or contained within the sign. It may be attached or freestanding.

Logo means an item of information or graphic used to signify an organization, corporation or the like.

Major roadway sign means a monument identification sign located at the intersection of two arterial roads, but within the limits of a property, that identifies such property.

Mansard sign means a sign attached to or erected against a mansard of a building, with the face horizontally parallel to the building wall.

Marquee sign means an attached sign that is customarily used by theaters to advertise show times.

Memorial sign means an attached sign or tablet used to denote the name of a building and date of erection and other related information.

Menu board means a sign that advertises the prices or availability of both food and drink products for sale at a drive-thru restaurant. It may be attached or freestanding.

Message board sign means a sign with changeable text. Manual changeable copy message boards typically consist of letters attached to a surface within a transparent display case. Electronic message boards consist of any sign that is capable of displaying illuminated words, symbols, figures, or images that can be electronically changed by remote or automatic means, excluding any digital clock as defined in this chapter.

Model sign means a temporary sign that designates particular dwelling units and is used to depict other units of similar design that are for sale. It may be attached or freestanding.

Monument sign means a freestanding, self-supported structure not attached or affixed in any way to a building or any other primary structure, with concealed means of support that is built into the ground and could not be construed to be a pole sign.

Multiple establishment center means a commercial shopping center, industrial center, employment center, town center, or other similar center.

Nameplate sign means an attached sign indicating the name, profession, or address of a persons or persons residing on or legally occupying the premises.

Noncommercial sign means a sign containing only noncommercial copy. "Noncommercial" shall mean not-for-profit or commercial gain. Regardless of the content of the copy, a noncommercial sign shall not be construed to be an off-premises sign.

Nonconforming sign, illegal means a sign located within the city limits on the effective date of this Code which by its height, type, area, design, colors, materials, location, use, or structural support did not conform to the city sign regulations that were in effect prior to December 1, 2005, and does not conform to the requirements of this Code.

Nonconforming sign, legal means a sign located within the city limits on the effective date of this Code which, by its height, type, area, design, colors, materials, location, use, or structural support, conformed to the city sign regulations that were in effect prior to December 1, 2005, but does not conform to the requirements of this Code. This shall include signs that had been granted variances that were approved, and signs that were issued a construction permit by the city (or Broward County if in an area that was annexed by the city), prior to December 1, 2005.

Off-premises sign means a sign that directs attention to a commercial business, commodity, service, product, or activity not conducted, sold, offered, or available on the premises where such sign is located, the copy of which may be intended to be changed periodically. An off-premises sign is the principal use of the property on which it is located. It may also be referred to as a "billboard." it includes a sign displayed on a trailer or the bed of a truck that advertises something other than the identity of the truck, the driver or its contents.

On-premises sign means a sign that is located on the premises of the occupant, business, or property identified on the sign. The occupant, business, or property is the principal use of the property, and the sign is an accessory use of the property on which it is located.

Painted wall sign means a type of sign that is painted on to a flat, solid stucco or finished surface of a building.

Parapet means a wall extension above the roofline of the building.

Person means any individual, business, corporation, partnership, association, or other entity identified on the sign, or otherwise responsible for the placement of the sign.

Pole sign means a sign erected upon a pole, poles, post, or "pole-like" structure that are visible and wholly independent of any building or structure for support.

Political sign means a sign that indicates the name, cause or affiliation of anyone seeking public office, or that indicates any political issue. It may be attached or freestanding.

Portable sign means a movable sign not secured or attached to the ground or a structure.

Primary street frontage means the length of a street (not including limited-access highways or other elevated roadways) that is adjacent to the required front yard of a lot, parcel, or tract.

Projecting sign means a sign attached to and supported by a building or other structure, which extends more than eight inches there from.

Public property means any property owned, maintained, or controlled by the city or other governmental entity, including streets, medians, sidewalks, parks, and rights-of-way.

Public safety sign means a sign, including a non-point of service sign, the message of which is intended to direct attention to or provide directions to public or private facilities which provide protection for or to the public, including police, fire, hospital, emergency care, not including traditional medical practitioners offices, and disaster shelter, provided that such message shall be limited to the underlying purpose and shall not be extended to or combined with traditional commercial messages, unless the latter, standing alone, is otherwise permissible under these regulations.

Real estate sign means a sign erected by the owner or his agent, indicating that the property on which it is located or existing structures on that property are for sale, rent, or lease. This shall include signs that indicate that a property for sale or is available for inspection, such as signs containing the words "open house." It may be attached or freestanding.

Reverse channel letter means a wall sign comprised of individual lettering projecting a short distance away from the building facade, in which white or colored lighting is directed back towards the facade.

Roof sign means a sign erected over or on the roof of a structure. Does not include a sign attached to a parapet.

ROW means right-of-way.

S.F. means square foot or square feet.

Sidewalk sign means a portable sign on a sidewalk.

Sign means a device or representation for visual communication that is used for the purpose of making something known. Signs include, but are not limited to, figures, letters, logos, devices, flags, pennants, emblems, and pictures.

Sign face means that part of the sign that is or can be used to identify, advertise, and communicate information or for visual representation, which attracts the attention of the public for any purpose. Sign face includes any background material, panel, trim, color, and internal or external illumination used that differentiate the sign from the building, structure, backdrop surface or object upon or against which the sign is placed.

Sign structure means the supporting or surrounding structure of a freestanding sign, with or without a sign thereon, situated upon or attached to the premises, upon which any sign may be fastened, affixed, displayed, or applied. This definition shall exclude a building, fence, bridge, freestanding perimeter wall, or distinct architectural or structural element.

Snipe sign means any sign or advertisement affixed in any manner to a tree, utility pole, utility box, streetlight, traffic signal, fence, bench, shelter, or any other structure or object located on public property or within the public right-of-way, without the express written authorization of the city or applicable public agency.

Special events sign means a temporary sign intended to advertise a special event. Festivals, art shows, decennial business anniversary celebration, and homeowner association meetings are examples of special events. It may be attached or freestanding.

Standard entrance means a pedestrian entrance to a building that is normally used by both employees and customers. This shall also include car wash, automobile, maintenance or loading entrances.

Street frontage means the length of a street (not including limited-access highways or other elevated roadways) that is adjacent to a property.

Street sign means a sign that specifies the name of a street that is placed adjacent to such street. It may be attached or freestanding.

Temporary sign means any sign to be displayed for a limited period shall be deemed a temporary sign. Temporary signs shall include signs capable of being mounted on the ground through use of supports made of wood, plastic or metal, or leaned or affixed to a structure or similar object, hand-carried signs, signs attached or mounted on vehicles, or in the window of any vehicle, but shall not include bumper stickers placed on vehicle bumpers. It may be attached to a principal building or freestanding.

Traffic sign means a sign that specifies vehicular and traffic information, rules or regulations and is placed for a legitimate public safety reason. It may be attached or freestanding.

Vehicle sign means a sign permanently or temporarily painted on or affixed to a vehicle, including but not limited to automobile, truck, boat, bus, trailer, or camper, whether the vehicle is parked or moving.

Wall sign means a sign attached to and supported by a building or other structure.

Warning sign means a sign whose purpose is to notify the public of a possible danger or policy that affects a property or to provide instructions at active construction sites, such as "Beware of Dog," "No Trespassing," "Men at Work," "No Parking," "Customer Parking Only," and "Caution." It may be attached or freestanding.

Window means an opening constructed in a wall that is spanned with glass and framed with another, distinct material.

Window sign means an attached sign located on the inside of a window or within a building or other enclosed structure, where the sign face is visible and legible from the exterior through a window or other opening. A window sign may be one or all of the following:

(a)

Identification sign means a sign attached to or painted on an establishment window identifying the occupant and its address and telephone number.

(b)

Message sign means a sign containing a message.

(c)

Hours of operation sign means a sign stating hours and days of operation.

(d)

Advertising sign.

Yard sale sign means a temporary sign erected by the owner of the property or authorized agent of such owner that indicates that tangible goods are for sale at a certain time on the property on which it is located. It may be attached or freestanding.

(Ord. No. 2010-10, § 2, 5-25-10; Ord. No. 2016-04, § 2, 3-8-2016; Ord. No. 2018-002, § 2, 2-27-2018; Ord. No. 2025-008, § 4, 6-24-2025)

904.1.

Sign permit.

904.1.1.

Permit required. No permanent or temporary sign shall be erected, installed, displayed, enlarged, relocated, changed, or modified without the appropriate permit being issued by the city, except as provided for in section 912.

904.1.2.

Application. Before any permit is issued, a written application, in the form provided by the city, shall be filed together with such drawings and specifications as may be necessary to fully advise the city with the location, construction, materials, colors, size, manner of illuminating, method of securing or fastening, the number of signs applied for, the consent of the property owner, and the wording of the sign. Every application for a sign permit shall include the square footage and location of all existing signs on the property, a photograph of all facades and any other necessary information relating to the proposed sign in order for the city to determine compliance with all requirements of this chapter. In addition, applications for a monument sign shall include an accurate and up-to-date survey of the property indicating the lot dimensions, the proposed location of the sign with all setbacks to property lines, and a landscaping plan, if required.

904.1.3.

Electrical signs. All signs that are electrically illuminated shall require a separate electrical permit and inspection.

904.1.4.

Completeness. Upon the submission of an application, staff shall have ten business days to determine whether it is complete. If staff finds that the application is not complete, they shall provide the applicant with written notice of the deficiencies within the ten business day period. Upon resubmission of the application, staff shall have five additional business days to determine whether the applicant's revisions are sufficient to complete the application. If they are not, staff will again inform the applicant of any remaining deficiencies in writing. This process shall continue until the applicant has submitted a complete application, or demands that the application be reviewed "as is."

904.1.5.

Compliance with master plan. All applications must conform to any master sign plan or document of similar nature that applies to the property.

904.1.6.

Fees. In addition to design review fees, a non-refundable permit fee is due and payable after the permit application is approved and ready to be issued. More than one sign on one building or group of buildings located on the same parcel of land may be included on one application, provided that all such signs are applied for at the same time.

904.1.7.

Permit review. Based on a review of the application, the community development director (CDD) (or his or her designee) shall approve or deny the sign permit based on whether it complies with the requirements of this article. The CDD shall approve or deny the sign permit within 30 days after the city's receipt of a complete application. The CDD shall prepare a written notice of the decision and include it within the permit file. The applicant may file a written notice of appeal to the city commission within 15 days after the date of receipt of the city's written notice. The city commission shall hear the appeal at the next available commission meeting that is at least 30 days after the date of receiving the written notice of appeal. If the city commission does not grant the appeal, then the appellant may seek relief in the circuit court for Broward County, as provided by law.

904.1.8.

Failure to commence. Every sign permit issued by the city shall become null and void if installation is not commenced within 180 days from the date of such permit. If work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for 180 days in accordance with the Florida Building Code any time after the work is commenced, a new permit shall be first obtained to do so, and the fee will be the full amount required for a new permit for such work.

904.1.9.

Revocation. The city may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under provisions of this chapter whenever the permit is issued on the basis of a misstatement of fact or fraud. The written revocation shall describe the appeal process. The city shall send the revocation by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the sign owner. Any person having an interest in the sign or property may appeal the revocation by filing a written notice of appeal with the city commission within 15 days after receipt of the written notice of revocation. The city commission shall hear the appeal within 30 days after the date of receiving the written notice of appeal. If the city commission does not grant the appeal, then the appellant may seek relief in the circuit court for Broward County, as provided by law.

904.1.10.

Inspection. After the issuance of the appropriate permit(s), the applicant may install and display the approved sign(s). Once installed, the city shall inspect the sign(s) for conformance with the approved permit(s) and the standards contained herein.

904.1.11.

Removal of sign on occupant's vacation of the premises. Within 30 days after an occupant vacates a lot or structure, the owner shall remove the occupant's sign.

904.1.12.

Appeals. Any appeal from any decision of the city relating to enforcement of these sign regulations shall be made according to the following requirements. The city shall prepare a written notice of its decision, describing the applicant's appeal rights, and send it by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the applicant, no later than ten days after the decision. The applicant may file a written notice of appeal to the city commission within 15 days after the date of receipt of the city's written notice. The city commission shall hear the appeal at the next available commission meeting that is at least 30 days after the date of receiving the written notice of appeal. If the city commission does not grant the appeal, then the appellant may seek relief in the circuit court for Broward County, as provided by law.

904.2.

Sign variances. Persons seeking a variance from any requirement of this chapter shall apply for a variance pursuant to section 506, and demonstrate compliance with each of the applicable standards in section 506.7. In no event shall any variance be granted to allow a prohibited sign.

905.1.

General guidelines. Any sign displayed in the city shall comply with the following:

(a)

All provisions of this chapter.

(b)

All applicable provisions of the applicable building code(s) and all amendments thereto.

(c)

All state and federal regulations pertaining to the display of signage.

(d)

If any two or more sections of the above referenced regulations are in conflict, the most restrictive standard shall apply.

(e)

Signs shall be limited to a maximum of two faces.

905.2.

Sign location. Signs or their supports shall not be placed in such position or manner as to obstruct or interfere, either physically or visually, with any fire alarm, police alarm, traffic signal or sign, or any devices maintained by or under public authority; or with vehicular or pedestrian ingress or egress to or from any public or private ROW, roadway, driveway, or sidewalk. Where applicable, signs shall be erected only at locations shown on plans approved by the city, and maintain a clear site triangle. Written consent from the easement holder shall be submitted to the city for location in an easement.

905.3.

Construction and materials.

905.3.1.

Structural requirements for signs are as follows:

(a)

All structural, electrical, and mechanical members utilized in the construction, erection, and operation of signs shall be concealed, except for vertical supports of other supporting members which are designed and arranged so as to be an integral part of the aesthetic composition of a sign.

(b)

All lettering or graphic characters one foot or larger on permanent signs shall extrude from or intrude into the sign face a minimum of three-eighths of an inch.

(c)

CBS, concrete block and stucco, construction is recommended for all permanent monument signs. Structural components shall not be covered by a material that is high gloss, reflective, or illuminated. Wooden monument signs are prohibited.

(d)

All wood permitted to be used for any part of a new or existing permanent sign, for replacement of an existing permanent sign, or for any part thereof, shall be rot and termite resistant. Marine wood may be used; however, the supports must be obscured from view. Routing or incising is encouraged. The wood must meet specifications in accordance with the standards of the American Wood Preservation Association, the applicable building code, or any other open-cell preservation treatment approved by the city's building division.

(e)

Face jumping or wires that are visibly connected to individual letters are prohibited.

905.3.2.

Permanent signs shall be made of durable materials, not paper or other short-lived materials.

905.3.3.

Illumination.

(a)

Wall signs may be internally illuminated or illuminated from an external light source such as a decorative wall-mounted light fixture. External neon tubing or strip lighting is prohibited. Ground-mounted signs may be internally illuminated or illuminated from an external light source that is appropriately visually screened by landscaping and must be submitted with the original sign permit application and design for approval. For permitted colors and illumination, see section 813.2.1.2. An illuminated sign shall not be erected within 100 lineal feet of any portion of a residential district, except for monument entrance feature signs. Energy-efficient technology shall be used for all sign illumination, for signs receiving initial sign permits following the date of this amendment to this chapter (November 30, 2011). Replacement of existing bulbs with LED bulbs is encouraged.

(b)

An electronic message board sign, if specifically permitted to be included within a conforming on-premises sign type allowed by this chapter, shall comply with the following requirements:

1.

An electronic message board sign shall not exceed a maximum luminance intensity of 5,000 nits (candelas per square meter) during daylight hours and a maximum luminance of 500 nits between 15 minutes after sunset and 15 minutes before sunrise as measured from the sign face at maximum brightness. Sign copy may change only at intervals of not less than 60 seconds. Continuous scrolling, animation, or flashing of lights is prohibited.

2.

Sign copy may change only at intervals of not less than 60 seconds. The entire electronic sign face shall appear and disappear uniformly and simultaneously. Copy shall not fade out or fade in, or appear or disappear in any pattern, spiral or movement, or migrate from a side, top or bottom. Any such effects shall cause the sign to be considered a prohibited sign.

3.

An electronic message board sign shall not interfere with the effectiveness of, or obscure an official traffic sign, device or signal.

4.

An electronic message board sign shall have a disconnecting switch located in accordance with the provisions of the National Electric Code. The sign shall include an automatic shutoff device which renders a blank screen in the event of a malfunction.

5.

An electronic message board sign shall require both a sign permit and an electrical permit prior to installation.

(c)

An electronic message board sign located within a conforming off-premises sign allowed by this chapter shall comply with the following requirements:

1.

Illumination from the surface of the electronic message board shall not create glare or reflection onto any portion of an adjacent street or highway, the path of oncoming vehicles or any adjacent premises. Under no circumstances may the electronic message board sign contain a message or display that appears to flash, undulate, pulse, move, or portray explosions, fireworks, flashes of light, or blinking lights or otherwise appears to move toward or away from the viewer, expand or contract, bounce, rotate, spin, twist or make other comparable movements.

2.

The sign copy of the electronic message board may change no more frequently than once every eight seconds, with a transition period of one second or less.

3.

The sign copy of the electronic message board must have installed an ambient light monitor which shall continuously monitor and automatically adjust the brightness level of the sign face based on ambient light conditions consistent with terms of this section.

4.

Maximum brightness levels for electronic message board sign shall not exceed 0.2 footcandles over ambient light levels measured within 150 feet of the sign. Certification must be provided to the city demonstrating that the sign has been preset to automatically adjust the brightness to these levels or lower. Reinspection and recalibration shall be annually required by the city, in its reasonable discretion, at the permittee's expense to ensure that the specified brightness levels are maintained at all times.

5.

Brightness of electronic message board signs shall be measured as follows:

a.

At least 30 minutes following sunset, a footcandle meter shall be used to obtain an ambient light reading for the location. This is done while the sign is off or displaying black copy. The reading shall be made with the meter aimed directly at the sign area at the preset location.

b.

The sign shall then be turned on to full white copy to take another reading with the meter at the same location.

c.

If the difference between the readings is 0.2 footcandles or less, the brightness is properly adjusted.

6.

An electronic message board sign shall require both a sign permit and an electrical permit prior to installation.

905.4.

Maintenance. Every sign, together with its framework, braces, angles, or other supports, shall be well maintained in appearance and in a good and safe condition. The sign shall be properly secured, supported, and braced, and able to withstand wind pressures as required by the applicable building code or any other regulatory code or ordinance in effect within the municipal limits. In the event that an attached sign is removed, all anchor holes shall be filled and covered, by the owner of the property, in a manner that renders the anchor holes non-discernable with the wall. This shall be done within 30 days of removal. All lights and luminous tubes illuminating a sign shall be maintained in working condition. All replacement bulbs and lenses shall be of the same wattage and color as the light it is replacing, unless a change is required to meet existing code requirements.

905.5.

Landscaping. Unless otherwise provided for in these LDRs, all detached and freestanding signs shall be placed with, or in proximity to, a planting bed with at least 160 square feet of planting. This bed shall contain shrubs, flowers or other ground cover, and shall be shown on a site plan or survey submitted for approval in conjunction with a sign permit application.

(Ord. No. 2016-04, § 3, 3-8-2016)

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Code, the following minimum criteria shall also be met by all signs erected in the city:

906.1.

Residential districts. No sign may be erected in a residential district that exceeds the following dimensions and requirements:

(a)

Maximum sign face area: Forty-eight square feet.

(b)

Maximum sign height: Eight feet.

(c)

Maximum Sign structure area: One hundred forty-four square feet.

906.2.

Nonresidential districts (commercial, office, industrial). No sign may be erected in a nonresidential district that exceeds the following dimensions and requirements:

(a)

Maximum sign face area: Seventy-five square feet.

(b)

Maximum sign height: Twelve feet.

(c)

Maximum sign structure area: Seventy-two square feet.

907.1.

Flag.

907.1.1.

Maximum height. Except as otherwise provided herein, flags shall be displayed on flagpoles. Such poles in nonresidential zoning districts shall not exceed 30 feet. Flagpoles may not be placed on top of buildings or light poles. Flagpoles in residential districts shall not exceed 20 feet.

907.1.2.

Maximum number and size. The maximum dimensions of any flag shall be proportional to the flagpole height. The hoist side of the flag shall not exceed 20 percent of the vertical height of the pole. For example, the following dimensions are allowed. Flag size for pole heights not listed shall be proportionally derived.

Each nonresidential property shall be allowed a maximum of three flagpoles and each residential property shall be allowed a maximum of one flagpole. References to flagpole height in this subsection refer to vertical flagpoles. References to the number of flags and flagpoles and flag dimensions refer to both vertical flagpoles and mast arm flagpoles (for example, staffs extending at an angle from a building). On United States and state holidays, there shall be no maximum flag size or number or other limitations on manner of display.

907.1.3.

Setback. A vertical flagpole must be set back from all property boundaries at least 15 feet on residential property and at least 25 feet on nonresidential property, or five feet less than the structural setback, whichever is less.

907.1.4.

Condition of flag and pole or other permanent mounting. The flag and flagpole or other permanent mounting shall be maintained in good repair. Flagpoles with broken halyards shall not be used and flags which are torn or frayed shall not be displayed.

908.1.

Sign area. Measurement of sign area shall be as follows:

908.1.1.

Freestanding signs. The overall height of a sign multiplied by the overall width of a sign, as contained within the smallest rectangle which will completely enclose the sign.

908.1.2.

Attached signs. The total area within the smallest rectangle which will completely enclose the sign face and all its visible components.

908.1.3.

All signs. When a sign has two faces, the area of all sides shall be included in determining the area, unless they are placed back to back. If back-to-back, then the sign area shall be taken as the area of either side, and if the sides are of unequal area, the larger shall determine the area.

908.1.4.

Inclusion of sign structure. The sign structure shall be included as a portion of the sign face. Sign face shall be measured as the area from the ground to the highest point of the sign.

908.2.

Sign height. Sign height shall be measured from the lowest height of the adjacent ground. The height of the nearest adjacent crown or the height of the nearest paved sidewalk (whichever is lower) shall be used if the sign is placed on a mound or berm that is more than one foot above the height of the adjacent roadway crown or sidewalk.

909.1.

RS-5A, RS-5B, RS-5C, RS-5D, RM-10, RM-16, RM-20, RP-10, zoning districts.

Address sign.

Bulletin board.

Community information sign.

Directional sign.

Monument sign, also known as project identification sign.

Nameplate.

Signs advertising home "for sale" or "for rent."

Political signs.

909.2.

B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4, B-5, B-6, OP, I-1, R-OS, CF, TC zoning districts.

Activity sign (permitted only for church, school or government facility).

Address.

Automatic teller machine (ATM) sign.

Canopy sign (pedestrian oriented).

City public information sign.

Community information sign.

Directional sign.

Directory sign.

Gasoline station signage.

a.

Monument sign (including gasoline price sign).

b.

Gasoline service station canopy sign.

c.

Gasoline station wall signage (including accessory uses such as convenience store or fast food restaurant).

Marquee sign.

Memorial sign.

Menu board.

Monument identification sign—Individual building as out-parcel or stand-alone building.

Monument identification sign—Multiple establishment center.

Nameplate sign.

Parapet sign.

Wall sign.

a.

Individual building as outparcel or stand-alone building.

b.

Shopping center or other multi-tenant center. (Permitted only on buildings where the majority of the floor area is in retail use.)

c.

Office and hotel buildings with signs located one to seven stories high.

d.

Office and hotel buildings located eight stories high and above.

Window sign—Identification or logo (Must be professionally made and applied or attached to inside of window).

Window sign—Message (Must be professionally made and applied or attached to inside of window).

Window sign—Hours of operation (Must be professionally made and applied or attached to inside of window).

Hospital.

a.

Monument sign.

b.

Wall sign.

(Ord. No. 2011-03, § 2, 4-12-2011)

909.3. Regional retail center ("Big Box" Center; "Power Center"). Applicable only to retail centers over 200,000 square feet with:

1.

A single tenant; or

2.

Multiple tenants integrated around a common open space; and

3.

Shared entries; and

4.

The primary tenant comprises 80 or more percent of the floor area.

a.

Monument sign.

b.

Wall sign.

(Ord. No. 07-14, § 2, 5-8-2007; Ord. No. 08-15, § 2, 5-27-08; Ord. No. 08-34, § 2, 1-13-2009; Ord. No. 2011-03, § 3, 4-12-2011)

910.1.

Time of display. Where not specified in this Code, all temporary signs shall not be posted more than 30 days prior to the time of the event or activity to which they related, and shall be removed no later than seven calendar days after the conclusion of that event or activity.

910.2.

Consent and assurance of removal for signs placed on property owned by others. Prior to the placement of any temporary sign on multifamily or nonresidential property, not owned by the person placing the sign(s), that person must:

910.2.1.

Obtain the prior written consent, on forms provided by the city, of the owner of the property allowing the placement of the sign on the property and submit same to the city clerk. Property owner shall acknowledge that they are responsible for the removal of any such sign(s), if they are not removed by the person placing the sign(s).

910.2.2.

Submit a letter acknowledging:

910.2.2.1.

Responsibility for the removal of his or her temporary sign(s) no later than seven days after the event or activity to which they relate.

910.2.2.2.

That no sign may be placed in a public right-of-way.

910.2.2.3.

That the city has the authority to remove such sign(s) and may charge the person placing the sign(s) a fee to be set by resolution of the city commission for such removal should the person not remove the sign(s).

910.3.

Zoning districts RS-5A, RS-5B, RS-5C, RS-5D, RM-10, RM-16, RM-20, RP-10.

Contractor sign (must identify contractor and provide contact information).

Development sign (may contain a city approved artist's rendition of project, and shall identify the name of the project and the type of development).

Directional sign—Special events (directional signs necessary to direct persons to the location of the property at which the event or meeting is being held).

Family event sign.

Model sign. Signs erected for the purpose of marketing new housing developments shall be governed by a comprehensive signage program. This program shall be submitted with a temporary sign permit application before temporary signage may be erected. A model sign may be erected after the project to which it relates has received its first building permit and must be removed concurrently with the issuance of the last certificate of occupancy. City staff shall approve updates or alterations to any sign covered by such a program, other than alterations to content.

Political sign.

Real estate sign.

Special event sign (may be banner).

Warning sign (required as determined by DRC).

Yard sale sign.

910.4.

Zoning districts B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4, B-5, B-6, OP, I-1, R-OS, CF, TC.

Contractor sign.

Development sign (may contain a city approved artist's rendition of project, and shall identify the name of the project and the type of development).

Directional sign—Special events (directional signs necessary to direct persons to the location of the property at which the event, meeting, or service is being held).

Grand opening sign (only to advertise a grand opening or a change in ownership of the business - no business may have more than one grand opening).

Political sign.

Real estate sign.

Special event sign (may be a banner).

Warning sign (required as determined by DRC).

Window sign—Advertising.

(Ord. No. 07-14, § 3, 5-8-2007)

911.1.

Specifically prohibited signs. The following signs are specifically prohibited in the city. If it is possible to define a sign using more than one of the definitions contained in Section 5.3, and one of the corresponding sign types is referenced in this section as being prohibited, then that sign shall be prohibited.

(a)

Reserved.

(b)

Reserved.

(c)

Awning sign, except for address numbers.

(d)

Balloon attached to a structure, landscaping feature or the ground.

(e)

Bench sign.

(f)

Any sign placed on public property or rights-of-way by someone other than the city. No sign shall be placed on any utility pole except for utility identification or similar purpose.

(g)

Box or cabinet wall signs utilizing internal illumination excepting box/cabinet wall signs comprised of boxes with cabinets consisting of individual letters or where each box/cabinet consists of an individual letter or where the individual letters are translucent and the sign is opaque.

(h)

Bus shelter sign.

(i)

Reserved.

(j)

Hazardous sign.

(k)

Mansard sign.

(l)

Off-premises sign or billboard sign, other than those lawfully existing on December 1, 2005 and protected by F.S. § 479.15(2).

(m)

Painted wall sign.

(n)

Pole signs, except for community information, street, traffic, temporary, and exempt signs.

(o)

Portable sign.

(p)

Projecting sign, except canopy and marquee signs.

(q)

Roof sign.

(r)

Sidewalk sign, except in the pedestrian oriented traditional neighborhood development district and for development receiving a compliance plan approval in the State Road 7 Overlay District.

(s)

Snipe sign.

(t)

Vehicle sign that acts as portable sign when the vehicle to which it is affixed or on which it is painted is not usually on the road during normal business hours.

(u)

Sign installed on external raceway.

(v)

Sign and sign structure which is not properly maintained or is abandoned.

(w)

Strip lighting used to outline roofs or any part of a building or window.

(x)

Any sign not prescribed as a permitted sign by this chapter.

911.2.

Prohibition of snipe signs. The purpose of this sub-section is to establish a clear and enforceable policy prohibiting the unauthorized placement of snipe signs within the City of Lauderdale Lakes. The city finds that snipe signs placed on public property, utility infrastructure, or within the public right-of-way contribute to visual clutter, detract from the city's aesthetic character, and constitute a public nuisance and litter hazard. This section is intended to deter such activity and support the city's overall efforts to maintain a clean and orderly public realm.

911.2.1.

Prohibited conduct.

(a)

No person shall post, affix, or place a snipe sign on any public property or in any public right-of way.

(b)

The presence of a sign bearing the name, phone number, address, website, QR code, or any other identifying information shall create a rebuttable presumption that the person or business so identified caused or authorized the placement of the sign.

(c)

Signs posted in violation of this section are hereby declared to be abandoned and may be removed and disposed of immediately by city personnel or agents.

911.2.2.

Enforcement and penalties.

(a)

A violation of this section shall be deemed a civil infraction, enforceable by citation. Each unlawfully placed snipe sign shall constitute a separate offense.

(b)

The following fine schedule shall apply to uncontested violations:

1.

First offense: $100.00 per sign (up to five signs), $150.00 for each additional sign on the same date.

2.

Second offense: $250.00 per sign.

3.

Third and subsequent offenses: $500.00 per sign.

(c)

If a sign is placed at a height exceeding five feet from the adjacent ground level, a minimum fine of $350.00 per sign shall apply.

(d)

Code enforcement may document violations by digital photograph and issue citations upon observation or based on credible evidence.

911.2.3.

Contested and additional remedies. Citations issued under this section may be contested to the city's special magistrate. For contested citations, there may be imposed a civil fine of up to $500.00 per citation, plus attorneys' fees and costs as may be authorized by law. In addition to civil citations, the city may seek injunctive relief in a court of competent jurisdiction to prevent repeated or egregious violations.

911.2.4.

Exemptions. The provisions of this article shall not apply to the following:

(a)

Signs installed by a governmental agency.

(b)

Signs otherwise permitted pursuant to the limitations set forth in section 910.

(c)

Political signs.

(Ord. No. 2016-04, § 4, 3-8-2016; Ord. No. 2025-008, §§ 5, 6, 6-24-2025)

912.1.

Residential zoning districts. Address signs shall be required upon the front facade of all dwelling units located within a residential zoning district pursuant to the provisions of this Code.

912.2.

In commercial areas. No vehicle displaying commercial signage may be used to provide auxiliary commercial signage for a business establishment or community facility. No vehicle displaying permanent commercial signage greater than four (4) square feet in area may be parked within two hundred (200) feet of the right-of-way line of any arterial street, except for the purpose of making pick-ups or deliveries. No vehicle displaying commercial signage greater than four (4) square feet in area may be parked, except for making pick-ups and deliveries, on land other than that upon which the owner of the vehicle is located. No vehicle may be used as a structure to support or elevate an advertising sign or banner.

912.3.

Non-residential zoning districts. The following signs shall be required to be erected upon all properties within non-residential zoning districts:

912.3.1.

Individual building as stand-alone building or out-parcel.

(a)

Address sign. Address signs shall be required upon the front facade of all individual buildings, as stand-alone buildings, or out-parcels pursuant to the provisions hereof.

(b)

Project identification (monument) or wall sign identifying the business within, pursuant to the provisions hereof.

912.3.2.

Multi-tenant center or office building.

(a)

Address sign. Address signs shall be required upon the front facade of all multi-tenant or office buildings, pursuant to the provisions hereof.

(b)

Project identification (monument) sign identifying the name of the multi-tenant center and/or businesses within the center, pursuant to the provisions hereof.

912.3.3.

Mixed-use building.

(a)

Address sign. Address signs shall be required upon the front facade of all mixed-use buildings, pursuant to the provisions hereof.

(b)

Wall sign identifying the name of the businesses within the mixed-use building, pursuant to the provisions hereof.

(Ord. No. 07-26, § 2, 9-25-2007)

Editor's note— Ord. No. 07-26, § 2, adopted September 25, 2007, changed the title of section 912 from "Signs on parked vehicles" to "Mandatory signs."

The following signs are exempt from obtaining a sign permit and may be located in the zoning districts provided herein. If it is possible to define a sign using more than one of the definitions contained in Section 903, and one of the corresponding sign types is referenced in this section, then the sign type that provides the most restrictive standards shall apply. These signs must still adhere to other applicable sections of the land development regulations.

(a)

Changes to the copy of any sign, where the content is not required, and where the change does not affect the color, design, font size or other aspects of the sign structure.

(b)

Address sign.

(c)

Government instructional signs.

(d)

Temporary holiday decorations that do not carry advertising matter. Such decorations and may be displayed for a maximum of 45 days before the beginning of the holiday to be celebrated or and for 14 days after the holiday ends.

(e)

Public safety signs subject to the following limitations:

1.

A public safety sign shall not exceed a maximum of 55 square feet along West Oakland Park Boulevard and North State Road 7/441.

2.

Number (maximum): 1 per legal lot.

3.

Separation between public safety signs: shall be separated by no less than 500 feet.

4.

Within multifamily, commercial and community facilities locations, the sign face area shall be 0.2 square foot per one linear foot of building frontage.

5.

The Development Services Director may consider offering a 20 percent bonus in the sign face area and/or reduction on the required separation between signs in exchange for the inclusion of at least three design enhancements:

(i)

Architecture as described in section 1103 of these LDRs,

(ii)

Landscaping in a manner that is compatible with the South Florida climate,

(iii)

Accent lighting,

(iv)

Decorative elements in a manner that incorporates the subtropical characteristics of the area, or

(v)

Organic and natural materials as provided in these LDRs in section 1001.—landscaping requirements.

(f)

Reserved.

(g)

Land use change courtesy notice sign.

(h)

No trespassing and no dumping signs not to exceed two square feet in area.

(i)

Permitted flags.

(j)

Reserved.

(k)

Reserved.

(l)

Memorial sign.

(m)

Nameplate sign.

(n)

Political sign.

(o)

Reserved.

(p)

Non commercial signs erected by public utilities.

(q)

Reserved.

(r)

Sign erected inside a building that is not legible from outside such building.

(s)

Street sign pursuant to an approved site plan or erected by a governmental agency.

(t)

Traffic sign that complies with FDOT standards, but is subject to city approval.

(u)

Temporary warning signs, cones or barricades.

(Ord. No. 2018-002, § 3, 2-27-2018)

914.1

Change and modification. A nonconforming sign or sign structure shall be brought into conformity with these regulations if it is altered, reconstructed, replaced, or relocated. Except that non-conforming off-premises signs, also referred to as billboards, lawfully existing on December 1, 2005, and protected by F.S. § 479.15(2) may be altered, reconstructed or replaced subject to the conditional use criteria set forth in section 511 of this Code. The conditional use review shall determine whether the proposed sign would have an adverse visual impact on the surrounding area and would be generally compatible with the goals, objectives and policies of the city's comprehensive plan. An electronic message board sign may be permitted within an altered, reconstructed or replaced off-premises sign meeting the above criteria subject to the standards provided in subsection 905.3.3(c). A change in copy is not an alteration or replacement for purposes of this subsection.

914.2.

Maintenance. Nonconforming signs must be maintained in good condition in accordance. Maintenance required by this subsection shall include replacing or repairing of worn or damaged parts of a sign or sign structure in order to return it to its original state, and is not a change or modification prohibited by subsection 5.9.1.

914.3.

Removal. Removal of a nonconforming sign, or replacement of a nonconforming sign with a conforming sign is required when:

914.3.1.

A nonconforming sign, or a substantial part of a nonconforming sign, is blown down, destroyed, or for any reason or by any means taken down, altered, or removed. As used in this subsection, "substantial" means 50 percent or more of the entire sign structure;

914.3.2.

The condition of the nonconforming sign or nonconforming sign structure has deteriorated and the cost of restoration of the sign to its condition immediately prior to such deterioration exceeds 50 percent of the value of the sign or sign structure prior to its deterioration;

914.3.3.

The use of the nonconforming sign, or the property on which it is located, has ceased, become vacant, or been unoccupied for a period of 180 consecutive days or more. An intent to abandon is not required as the basis for removal under this subsection;

914.3.4.

There is a change in tenant or change in ownership of the premises on which the nonconforming sign is located; or

914.3.5.

The person displaying the nonconforming sign has failed to apply for the certificate of nonconforming required by this chapter.

914.4.

Sign permit. Any permit issued for a sign under this chapter shall require that any nonconforming sign displayed on the premises for which the permit is issued shall be modified or removed to conform with the provisions of this chapter.

914.5.

Development permit. Any building permit that authorizes the development of a premises, any building addition, an increase in gross floor area of 25 percent or more, or any exterior structural remodeling of a building facade on which a nonconforming sign is located, shall require all nonconforming signs on the premises for which the building permit is issued to be brought into conformity with the provisions of this chapter.

914.6.

Separation. No sign that is nonconforming solely because it violates a requirement for the spacing of ground graphics shall be required to eliminate that nonconformity if compliance with the spacing regulation on the premises is not possible.

914.7.

Amortization. A nonconforming graphic must be removed, modified, or altered to comply with this chapter no later than six years from the date on which it becomes nonconforming, namely, August 8, 2012.

(Ord. No. 2010-20, § 2, 12-14-2010; Ord. No. 2016-04, § 5, 3-8-2016)

The requirements of this section shall be administered and enforced by the community development director or his/her designee.

915.1.

Inspections. All signs must be inspected and approved by the planning division of the community development department prior to receiving their first inspection from the building division of the community development department.

915.2.

Erroneously issued permits. Issuance of a permit shall not be construed to be an approval of any violation, and upon discovery of a violation, the city manager or his or her designee shall order immediate correction thereof, and may stop, prevent the erection, or require the removal of any sign until the correction is completed.

915.3.

Penalties (property owners). Pursuant to the City of Lauderdale Lakes' standard code enforcement procedures, the following penalties shall be applied by the city's code enforcement officers:

(a)

First notice: $25.00

(b)

Second notice: $50.00

(c)

Third notice: $100.00

(d)

Fourth notice: $500.00

(e)

After the issuance of the fourth notice, the city shall have the right to either continue penalties at the same rate as the fourth notice or remove the penalized sign at the expense of the owner of the property where the sign is located.

(f)

At least 15 days shall be provided between notices in order to give the penalized party sufficient time to respond to the notice.

915.4.

Penalties (persons advertising goods, services and/or promotions). There is hereby established a rebuttable presumption that the owner or marketer of the advertised goods, services and/or promotions which are advertised on a sign, is the owner or person who caused such sign to be tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued or otherwise erected. Such presumption can only be rebutted by clear and convincing evidence. Any person found in violation of any provisions of this chapter 9 shall be subject to the penalty provided in section 1-9 of the Code of Ordinances.

(Ord. No. 2010-10, § 3, 5-25-2010)

916.1.

Generally. If any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article is declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect any other part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article.

916.2.

Severability where less speech results. Without diminishing or limiting in any way the declaration of severability set forth above in subsection 5.15.1, or elsewhere in this article, this Code, or any adopting ordinance, if any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article is declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect any other part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article, even if such severability would result in a situation where there would be less speech, whether by subjecting previously exempt signs to permitting or otherwise.

916.3.

Severability of provisions pertaining to prohibited signs. Without diminishing or limiting an any way the declaration of severability set forth above in subsection 5.15.1, or elsewhere in this article, this Code, or any adopting ordinance, if any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article or any other law is declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect any other part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article that pertains to prohibited signs, including specifically those signs and sign-types prohibited and not allowed under section 5.11 of this article. Furthermore, if any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of section 5.11 is declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect any other part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of section 5.11, thereby ensuring that as many prohibited sign-types as may be constitutionally prohibited continue to be prohibited.

916.4.

Severability of prohibition on billboards. If any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article and/or any other code provisions and/or laws are declared invalid or unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect the prohibition on billboards as contained in this chapter or code.