Mcallen City Zoning Code
CHAPTER 4
Development Standards
§ 4.1.1 Purpose.
This article establishes uniform standards for the development and improvement of property throughout McAllen to ensure quality development that is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.1.2 Organization.
This article is organized into the following divisions for each development standard as summarized in Table 4.1.2-1. Specific regulations and standards apply as provided in this article.
Table 4.1.2-1: Development Standards Overview | ||
|---|---|---|
Development Standard | Article Location | Overview |
Dimensional Standards | Article 4.2 | Addresses the various yards, setbacks, and dimensional requirements that apply to a lot or development |
Site Design Requirements | Article 4.3 | Provides a set of architectural design requirements to produce attractive development (these requirements are not applicable for single-family residential development) |
Parking | Article 4.4 | Provides for when parking is required and how a site manages parking accommodations |
Loading | Article 4.5 | Regulates when loading is required and how a site has to accommodate loading areas |
Landscaping | Article 4.6 | Regulates the necessary landscaping requirements to improve the development aesthetic and maintain the City's natural feel |
Screening and Fencing | Article 4.7 | Provides regulations where more intensive development needs to buffer from less intensive development. It also accounts for those instances where fencing may be applied to protect privacy |
Outdoor Lighting | Article 4.8 | Regulates site lighting to minimize light pollution while balancing the desire for safely lit properties |
Signs | Article 4.9 | Regulates the various sign types and prescribes allowances based on zoning districts |
Infill Development Standards | Article 4.10 | Addresses instances where redevelopment is to occur on previously developed lots |
Performance Standards | Article 4.11 | Mitigates a development's potential to create public nuisances (smoke, odor, dust, noise, etc.) |
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.1.3 Applicability.
This article applies to all new development, expansions, and redevelopment within the corporate limits of McAllen unless otherwise specified. Each division in this article establishes when and how a particular standard applies.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.1 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to establish clear guidelines for measuring and applying required lots, yards, setbacks, height, and other dimensional features.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.2 Applicability.
This article applies to any lot, yard, setback, or height required by this UDC within the City's corporate limits.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.3 Yards and Setbacks.
A.
Generally.
1.
The Planning and Zoning Commission shall have the authority to accept and approve any building setback lines established by a plat, even if such building setback lines may not be in compliance with the requirements set forth below.
2.
Where setbacks have been established by an approved plat that deviates from the setback that is prescribed by this UDC, the required setback shall comply with the building setback line established by that plat.
3.
The ordinary projections of sills, eaves, cornices and other architectural features may extend to a distance not to exceed twenty-four (24) inches into a required yard and shall not project over utility easements.
4.
This UDC's required yards and setbacks are summarized in Table 4.2.3-1: Yards and Setbacks Key, Figure 4.2.3-1: Yards and Setbacks Summary, and Figure 4.2.3-2: Yards and Setbacks Summary (Street Perspective).
Table 4.2.3-1: Yards and Setbacks Key | |
|---|---|
Symbol | Description |
1 | Front Yard |
2 | Rear Yard |
3 | Side Yard |
4 | Corner Side Yard |
A | Front Yard Setback |
B | Rear Yard Setback |
C | Side Yard Setback |
D | Corner Side Yard Setback |
Figure 4.2.3-1: Yards and Setbacks Summary (Aerial Perspective) .tif.SM.png) |
Figure 4.2.3-2: Yards and Setbacks Summary (Street Perspective) .tif.SM.png) |
B.
Front Yards.
1.
A front yard is a yard extending across the front of a lot between the side property lines and being the minimum horizontal distance between the right-of-way line and wall of the main building.
2.
The front yard shall be open and unobstructed from a point forty (40) inches above the general ground level of the graded lot. Eaves and roof extensions or a porch may project into the required front yard for a distance not to exceed four (4) feet and subsurface structures, platforms, or slabs may not project into the front yard to a height greater than forty (40) inches above the grade of the yard.
3.
Plat notes may supersede this requirement if more restrictive than the code.
C.
Side Yards.
1.
A side yard is a yard between the primary building and the adjacent side property line and extending entirely from a front yard to the rear yard.
2.
Mechanical equipment such as air-conditioning compressors, swimming pool pumps and filters, and similar devices may be installed in the side yard a maximum height of sixty (60) inches above the ground level of the graded lot.
3.
Where a side property line divides a nonresidential district from a residential district, a minimum ten (10) foot side yard is required for the nonresidential lot side adjacent to that residential district.
D.
Rear Yards.
1.
A rear yard is a yard extending across the rear of a lot and being the required minimum horizontal distance between the rear property line and the rear of the main building.
2.
Every part of a rear yard shall be open and unobstructed from a point forty (40) inches above the ground level of the graded lot, except for permitted accessory buildings and the ordinary projects stated above.
E.
Corner Side Yards.
1.
On a corner lot, the street where the building's primary entrance is located, or designated to be located, is the front yard. Any streets perpendicular to the building's primary entrance are corner side yards.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.4 Building Height.
A.
Height Measurement. The vertical distance from the grade to the highest point of the coping of a flat roof, the deckline of a mansard roof, and the mean height level between eaves and ridge for hip, gable or gambrel roofs.
B.
In measuring the height of a building or structure, the following are excluded:
1.
Chimneys;
2.
Cooling towers;
3.
Elevator bulkheads;
4.
Mechanical rooms;
5.
Tanks;
6.
Water towers;
7.
Radio towers;
8.
Television antennas;
9.
Ornamental cupolas, domes or spires; and
10.
Parapet walls less than four (4) feet in height.
C.
Heights authorized in this UDC are subordinate to those established in Appendix A - Airport Zoning Regulations.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.5 Frontage Buildout.
The frontage buildout is the required location where a building, or portion of a building must front. Frontage buildout is depicted in Figure 4.2.5-1.
Figure 4.2.5-1: Frontage Buildout Illustration  |
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.6 Lot Area.
A.
No lot shall be created or reduced in area, width, or depth below the minimum requirements established in Chapter 2.
B.
A lot that was legally created prior to the adoption of this UDC may be redeveloped, but any deviations from the dimensional standards other than minimum lot area shall require a variance.
C.
The total space required for a lot is calculated by multiplying the lot's depth by it's width.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.7 Lot Width.
A.
Lot width is the distance parallel to the front property line, measured at the front property line.
B.
Lot width on a curving front line means the distance parallel to the tangent of the front property line.
C.
The lot width and the lot frontage may have different lengths on an irregularly shaped lot as they are measured at different points on the lot.
D.
Refer to Figure 4.2.7-1: Lot Width Summary to clarify lot width measurements.
Figure 4.2.7-1: Lot Width Summary  |
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.8 Lot Coverage.
Lot coverage is the percentage of the lot that is occupied by the ground area of a building and its accessory buildings.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.2.9 Sight Visibility Triangle (Standard Design Guide?).
All signage, fencing, and structures must comply with sight visibility triangle which can be found in Standard Design Guide (SDG). Any landscape feature in sight visibility triangle must be maintained lower than three (3) feet in height.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.3.1 Purpose.
The purposes of this article are to:
A.
Establish minimum standards for the appearance of development and corresponding architectural design and site elements that enhance property values, reflecting the interest of the City's general welfare;
B.
Promote variety, visual interest, and pedestrian-oriented streets in residential development;
C.
Encourage the design of a developed environment that is built to human scale;
D.
Ensure buildings are compatible with its surrounding area and contributes to the unique community character of McAllen; and
E.
Encourage high quality design supportive of the Comprehensive Plan vision, goals, objectives and recommendations by establishing a system to achieve greater regulatory flexibility for development through provision of certain desirable design and performance characteristics.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.3.2 Applicability.
A.
Anyone using the provisions of this article for regulatory flexibility does so voluntarily and in a binding manner. The City may require execution of agreements to document the use of these provisions and recording in the public records of the County.
B.
This article applies to all development within the City's corporate limits.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.3.3 Single-Family and Duplex Design.
A.
Establishment of Scoring System and Associated Regulatory Incentives.
1.
Level 1 High-Quality Design. A cumulative score of sixty (60) points, as described below, shall result in the following changes to development regulations applicable to the subject property:
a.
The granting of an additional ten (10) feet of maximum height.
b.
The granting of an additional ten percent (10%) of building coverage.
c.
The granting of an additional ten percent (10%) impervious cover.
d.
The granting of a ten percent (10%) reduction in minimum lot size and a ten percent (10%) increase in maximum dwelling units per acre.
2.
Level 2 High-Quality Design. A cumulative score of eighty (80) points, as described below, shall result in the following bonuses applicable to the subject property:
a.
The granting of an additional twenty (20) feet of maximum height.
b.
The granting of an additional twenty percent (20%) of building coverage.
c.
The granting of an additional twenty percent (20%) of impervious cover.
d.
The granting of a twenty-five percent (25%) reduction in minimum lot size and a twenty-five percent (25%) increase in maximum dwelling units per acre.
B.
High-Quality Design Actions and Associated Scoring Values. The following characteristics are determined to constitute evidence of high-quality design. The presence of each characteristic shall have an associated scoring value for the purposes of establishing whether a project achieves Level 1 or Level 2 High-Quality Design.
1.
Use of Building Materials Reflective of the City's Geographic Context. A project may receive a maximum of twenty (20) points for the use of building materials reflective of the City's geographic context, as follows:
a.
Use of Building Materials, Class 1 and Building Materials, Class 2 on one hundred percent (100%) of the exterior facade: Fifteen (15) points.
b.
Use of Building Materials, Class 1 on one hundred percent (100%) of the exterior facade: Twenty (20) points.
2.
Maintaining and Enhancing the Natural Environment. A project may receive a maximum of twenty (20) points for maintaining and enhancing the natural environment, as follows:
a.
Preserving at least thirty-five percent (35%) of the subject property unaltered in its natural state: Ten (10) points.
b.
Certification of at least fifty percent (50%) of the subject property as a certified Texas Wildscape, Monarch Waystation or similar third-party designation approved by the Planning Director as indicating consistency with City goals to encourage native and adaptive plants, discourage invasive and disease-prone plants, and support wildlife habitat: Ten (10) points.
3.
Promotion of Conversation and Low-Impact Development Best Practices. A project may receive a maximum of thirty (30) points for development characteristics promoting conservation and low-impact development best practices, as follows:
a.
Incorporation of rainwater harvesting system capable of capturing a one (1) inch rainfall event for twenty-five percent (25%) of the roof area, with a minimum of one thousand (1,000) gallons: Fifteen (15) points.
b.
Incorporation of Low Impact Development (LID) stormwater management practices subject to the approval of the Planning Director and City Engineer: Fifteen (15) points.
c.
Use of improved permeable surface for at least fifty percent (50%) of paved areas of driveways, parking and sidewalks (excluding the building footprint) with performance characteristics indicating at least fifty percent (50%) of water infiltrates through the surface and requiring minimal maintenance intervention, subject to Planning Director and City Engineer approval: Fifteen (15) points.
4.
Enhanced Building and Site Design Characteristics. A project may receive a maximum of thirty (30) points for certain building design characteristics, as follows:
a.
Use of clay tile, slate or metal roof materials for the entire roof surface: Ten (10) points.
b.
Use of a vegetative "green" roof for at least fifty percent (50%) of the entire roof surface (this may also count toward credit for the roof materials listed in subsection a, above, if project is seeking points for both): Twenty (20) points.
c.
Use of enhanced paving for all driveways, sidewalks and other paved surfaces, including but not limited to earth-tone colored concrete (stain integral; not applied afterward), stamped or patterned concrete, brick or paver units, exposed aggregate or improved permeable surface (excluding dirt, grass or gravel) outside City right-of-way: Ten (10) points.
d.
Use of at least two (2) of the following element options: Ten (10) points.
(i)
Front wall articulation to offset the floorplate every fifteen (15) feet along any front facade of the dwelling unit.
(ii)
The garage be placed behind the rear building face.
(iii)
A covered front porch or portico along at least fifty percent (50%) of the front facade, with a minimum depth of eight (8) feet.
(iv)
The use of window and door enhancements on all facades visible from the street, including but not limited to transoms, bay windows, raised muntins on windows, shutters, or other similar enhancements.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.3.4 Multifamily, Mixed-Use, and Nonresidential Design.
A.
Building Design and Orientation.
1.
All buildings shall be finished on all four sides with the same materials, detailing, and features and with a higher level of finish on the front facades (as set forth in the requirements below). The intent is not to limit materials but rather to ensure consistency in their use.
2.
Any building visible from a public Right-of-Way shall either face such Right-of-Way or shall have a facade facing such Right-of-Way consistent with the character of the front facade.
B.
Required Design Element Options. The following is a list of design elements that, based upon the size of a building (see subsection C.3 below), must be incorporated into a building's design:
1.
Canopies, awnings or porticos;
2.
Overhangs;
3.
Recesses or projections;
4.
Arcades;
5.
Peaked roof forms;
6.
Arches;
7.
Outdoor patios;
8.
Display windows;
9.
Architectural details (e.g., tile work or moldings integrated into the building facade);
10.
Integrated planters or wing walls that incorporate landscape and sitting areas;
11.
Offsets, reveals, or projecting ribs used to express architectural or structural bays.
C.
Minimum Use of Design Elements. A building's floor area shall determine the minimum number of required design elements implemented in its construction as set forth below:
1.
A building square footage between 0 and 20,000 square feet shall have at least three (3) design elements listed in subsection B above.
2.
A building square footage between 20,001 and 50,000 square feet shall have at least five (5) design elements listed in subsection B above, and shall be designed to appear as separate but attached buildings through the use of building material changes, wall plane/horizontal articulation, and roofline/vertical articulation.
3.
A building square footage exceeding 50,000 square feet shall have at least seven (7) design elements listed in subsection B above, and shall be designed to appear as separate but attached buildings through the use of building material changes, wall plane/horizontal articulation, and roofline/vertical articulation.
D.
Front Facade Entry Requirements.
1.
A front facade shall be articulated and designed to present a distinctive entry presence, emphasizing the building's entry point along the facade.
2.
Entry design shall consist of at least three of the following design elements at the primary entrance, so that the primary entrance is architecturally prominent and clearly visible from the abutting street and parking:
a.
Architectural details such as arches, friezes, tile work, murals or moldings.
b.
Integral planters or wing walls that incorporate landscape or seating.
c.
Enhanced exterior light fixtures such as wall sconces, light covers with concealed light sources, ground-mounted accent lights, or decorative pedestal lights.
d.
Prominent three-dimensional features, such as belfries, chimneys, clock towers, domes, spires, steeples, towers or turrets.
e.
A repeating pattern of pilasters projecting from the facade wall by a minimum of eight inches or architectural or decorative columns.
E.
Pedestrian Shelter. Facades shall provide shelter integrated into building form alongside at least twenty-five percent (25%) of all building frontages adjacent to or facing the principal street or adjacent parking with a maximum shelter height of fifteen (15) feet.
F.
Building Articulation. Facade depth and height articulation shall be required on the front facade of a building, per the following:
1.
Depth articulation of at least three (3) feet shall be required for every thirty (30) feet of building facade length. Depth articulation applies only below the roofline.
2.
Height articulation for flat roofs of at least five (5) feet shall be required for every fifty (50) feet of building facade length. Pitched roofs do not require height articulation.
G.
Roof Design Standards. All structures shall be constructed with a pitched roof, flat roof (pitch less than or equal to 2:12) with a parapet, true mansard roof, or any combination thereof.
1.
All flat roof surfaces shall be screened from ground level views so that such roof surfaces are not visible.
2.
Roofs or stairwells and elevator machine rooms and other similar spaces shall be exempt from roofing design standards so long as they are not visible from ground level. For the purpose of this subsection, visible shall be defined as capable of being seen at a height of six (6) feet while standing at the highest grades on the property line.
H.
Windows.
1.
Reflective glass shall not be permitted; glass shall not have solar reflectance that exceeds twenty percent (20%).
2.
Glass shall have a character of transparency. Tinted glass may be used, however, the tinting shall not reduce the light transmission to less than thirty-five percent (35%).
3.
Buildings shall provide glazing on a minimum of thirty-five percent (35%) of the ground floor front facade.
4.
Side elevations shall contain a minimum of ten percent (10%) glazing of the ground floor side facade.
5.
Windows shall be individually defined with detail elements such as frames, sills and lintels, and be placed to visually define the building stories.
I.
High-Quality Design Incentive.
1.
Establishment of Scoring System and Associated Regulatory Incentives.
a.
Level 1 High-Quality Design. A cumulative score of sixty (60) points, as described below, shall result in the following changes to development regulations in Chapter 2 applicable to the subject property:
(i)
The granting of an additional ten (10) feet of maximum height.
(ii)
The granting of an additional ten percent (10%) of impervious cover.
(iii)
The granting of an additional ten percent (10%) of dwelling units per acre.
b.
Level 2 High-Quality Design. A cumulative score of eighty (80) points, as described below, shall result in the following changes to development regulations in Chapter 2 applicable to the subject property:
(i)
The granting of an additional twenty (20) feet of maximum height.
(ii)
The granting of an additional twenty percent (20%) of impervious cover.
(iii)
The granting of an additional twenty percent (20%) of dwelling units per acre.
2.
High-Quality Design Actions and Associated Scoring Values. The following characteristics are determined to constitute evidence of high-quality design. The presence of each characteristic shall have an associated scoring value for the purposes of establishing whether a project achieves Level 1 or Level 2 High-Quality Design.
a.
Use of Building Materials Reflective of the City's Geographic Context. A project may receive a maximum of twenty (20) points for the use of building materials reflective of the City's geographic context, as follows:
(i)
Use of context materials on eighty-five percent (85%) of the exterior facade: Fifteen (15) points.
(ii)
Use of context materials on one hundred percent (100%) of the exterior facade: Twenty (20) points.
b.
Maintaining and Enhancing the Natural Environment. A project may receive a maximum of thirty (30) points for maintaining and enhancing the natural environment, as follows:
(i)
Altering the topography and elevation by no more than four (4) feet for at least eighty percent (80%) of the subject property, and preserving any natural channel or drainageway (including associated 100-year floodplain): Ten (10) points.
(ii)
Preserving at least thirty-five percent (35%) of the subject property unaltered in its natural state: Ten (10) points.
(iii)
Certification of at least fifty percent (50%) of the subject property as a certified Texas Wildscape, Monarch Waystation or similar third-party designation approved by the Planning Director as indicating consistency with City goals to encourage native and adaptive plants, discourage invasive and disease-prone plants, and support wildlife habitat: Ten (10) points.
3.
Promotion of Conversation and Low-Impact Development Best Practices. A project may receive a maximum of thirty (30) points for development characteristics promoting conservation and low-impact development best practices, as follows:
a.
Incorporation of rainwater harvesting system capable of capturing a one (1) inch rainfall event for twenty-five percent (25%) of the roof area: Fifteen (15) points.
b.
Incorporation of Low Impact Development (LID) stormwater management practices subject to the approval of the Planning Director and City Engineer: Fifteen (15) points.
c.
Use of improved permeable surface for at least fifty percent (50%) of paved areas of driveways, parking and sidewalks (excluding the building footprint) with performance characteristics indicating at least fifty percent (50%) of water infiltrates through the surface and requiring minimal maintenance intervention, subject to the Planning Director and City Engineer approval: Fifteen (15) points.
4.
Enhanced Building and Site Design Characteristics. A project may receive a maximum of 30 points for certain building design characteristics, as follows:
a.
Use of high-albedo roof materials to reduce height island effects, defined as use of roof products for at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the entire roof surface that reflect at least seventy-eight percent (78%) of sunlight (solar reflectivity index of 78) for roofs with a pitch less than or equal to 2:12 or twenty-nine percent (29%) of sunlight (solar reflectivity index of 29) for roofs with a pitch greater than 2:12: Ten (10) points.
b.
Use of a vegetative "green" roof to reduce heat island effects for at least fifty percent (50%) of the entire roof surface (this may also count toward credit for high-albedo roof materials if project is seeking points for both): Twenty (20) points.
c.
Placement of at least fifty percent (50%) of the parking to the side or rear of the main building: Ten (10) points.
d.
Increasing the glazing requirements for each facade by an additional twenty percent (20%): Ten (10) points.
e.
Use of at least five (5) of the following element options on the front and side facade: Fifteen (15) points for forty percent (40%) of the front and side facade, or twenty (20) points for sixty percent (60%) of the front and side facade.
(i)
Canopies, awnings or porticos;
(ii)
Overhangs;
(iii)
Recesses or projections;
(iv)
Arcades;
(v)
Peaked roof forms;
(vi)
Arches;
(vii)
Outdoor patios;
(viii)
Display windows;
(ix)
Architectural details (e.g., tile work or moldings integrated into the facade);
(x)
Integrated planters or wing walls that incorporate landscape and sitting areas;
(xi)
Offsets, reveals or projecting ribs used to express architectural or structural bays;
(xii)
Use of classic tripartite building design (e.g., a building design with a distinct base, middle and top similar to historic buildings found in small downtowns throughout Texas).
J.
Minor Modification. The Planning Director may approve elements not listed in this article if an equal or greater level of design and quality is provided.
1.
Design Element Options.
a.
Alternatives to the design elements listed in subsection I.4.e above.
b.
Alternatives shall produce a similar or greater level of architectural design than the elements listed in subsection I.4.e above.
2.
Building Articulation. Alternative articulation standards which differ from the requirements found in subsection I.4.e above may be approved.
3.
Glazing Alternatives. Walls that must be blank for security or other requirements shall be enhanced by the use of plant materials, artwork, canopies, special lighting, or a combination of facade articulation and material changes.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.4.1 Purpose.
The purposes of this article are to:
A.
Ensure that adequate off-street parking is provided for new land uses and changes in use;
B.
Minimize the negative environmental and development design impacts that can result from excessive parking, driveways, and drive aisles within parking areas;
C.
Establish standards and regulations for safe and well-designed parking and vehicle circulation areas that minimize conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles within parking areas and surrounding land uses;
D.
To regulate off-street parking and to specify the requirements for residential off-street parking as they pertain to the appearance and the health, safety, and welfare of the City;
E.
Offer flexible means of minimizing the amount of area devoted to vehicle parking by allowing reductions in the number of required spaces in context-sensitive locations;
F.
Ensure compliance with provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA);
G.
Minimize the visual impact of off-street parking areas; and
H.
Ensure that adequate off-street bicycle parking facilities are provided in walkable areas and promote parking that offers safe and attractive pedestrian routes.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.4.2 Applicability.
A.
Any new building, structure, use, redeveloped site, or enlarged or expanded existing building or use, must meet this article's parking requirements. These developments require permanent parking. Parking spaces may be provided in a garage or surfaced open area.
B.
When a change in intensity of use of any building or structure would increase the required parking by more than five (5) spaces or ten percent (10%), whichever is greater, through an addition or change in the number of dwelling units, gross floor area, or other specified units of measurements, the increment of additional required parking is provided in accordance with this article unless an adjustment is permitted in Section 4.4.4. If less than five (5) spaces or ten percent (10%), whichever is greater, are required by a change or series of changes in use, the Planning Director may waive up to the incremental required number of parking spaces after determining that the granting of the waiver shall not be detrimental to the public welfare and shall be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.4.3 Compliance Required.
A.
Off-Street Parking Review. Each application for a site plan, building permit, or certificate of occupancy shall include information as to the location and dimensions of parking spaces, and the means of ingress and egress to those spaces. This information is in sufficient detail to determine the requirements of this UDC are met and shall contain necessary information required by applicable provisions of this UDC.
B.
ADA Compliance. All ADA parking spaces and related ADA accessibility features are required to be installed in accordance with the current edition of the ADA Standards for Accessible Design (the "ADA Standards") as published by the Department of Justice. Where discrepancies exist between this UDC and the ADA Standards, the ADA Standards shall apply. All required parking shall meet the ADA Standards.
C.
Parking Reduction Procedures. No existing or proposed parking shall be reduced or eliminated unless otherwise specified. Reductions in parking spaces may be permitted where spaces are no longer required by these regulations or alternative spaces meeting the requirements of these regulations are provided.
D.
Off-Street Parking Requirements. Minimum off-street parking shall follow the requirements established in Table 3.1.3-2.
E.
Accessible Parking Space Requirement.
Number of Parking Spaces in Parking Area | Number of Accessible Parking Spaces |
|---|---|
1 to 25 | 1 |
26 to 50 | 2 |
51 to 75 | 3 |
76 to 100 | 4 |
101 to 150 | 5 |
151 to 200 | 6 |
201 to 300 | 7 |
301 to 400 | 8 |
401 to 500 | 9 |
501 to 1,000 | 2% of total |
1,001 and over | 20 plus 1 for each 100 over 1,000 |
One in every eight accessible parking spaces but not less than one shall be serviced by an access aisle eight feet wide minimum and shall be designated "van accessible." An access aisle not less than five feet in width for automobiles and eight feet in width for vans shall be required adjacent to designated accessible parking spaces, or otherwise conform with the Texas Accessibility Standards of the Architectural Barriers Act Article 9102, Texas Civil Statutes. An access route not less than three feet in width shall be provided from public transportation, accessible parking spaces, accessible passenger loading zones and public streets or sidewalks to the accessible building entrance.
F.
Parking of any road tractor, semi-trailer or truck, as such terms are defined in section 102-201 of the Code of Ordinances, is prohibited on any properties zoned residential (R-1, R-2, and R-3) or City Core (C-C) District, except as may be allowed by section 102-202. This prohibition is applicable to any new or existing single-family or multifamily residence notwithstanding Chapter 7 (Nonconformities) of this UDC, regarding the date of the subdivision in which the residence is located, the date of annexation of the property on which the residence is located, or the fact that it was not per se unlawful to park or allow the proscribed vehicle to be parked on the property prior to the date this prohibition was adopted by the City Commission. In the prosecution of any violation of this subsection there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the owner and/or occupant of the property where the proscribed vehicle is parked either parked the vehicle or allowed the vehicle to be parked there.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.4.4 Reductions to Parking Requirements.
A.
Generally.
1.
In specific instances established below, a reduction in required parking spaces may be approved by the Planning Director or Zoning Board of Adjustment. Applications for a reduction shall include the following information:
a.
A parking study that substantiates the need for a reduced number of spaces; and
b.
A plan showing how the parking spaces are provided on the site.
2.
Multiple parking adjustments and reductions may be used.
3.
The maximum required parking reduction shall not exceed forty percent (25%)[1] unless specifically authorized in this section.
[1]
Editor's note—So in original.
B.
Planning Director Approved Adjustments and Reductions.
1.
Joint Parking Facilities. Joint parking allows parking spaces to be shared among two or more uses that typically experience peak parking demands at different times and are located on the same lot or on lots within six hundred (600) feet. Because parking spaces are shared, the total number of parking spaces that would otherwise be required may be reduced. In addition to all other applicable requirements of this section, the following requirements apply to joint parking:
a.
Authority to Reduce Parking.
(i)
The Planning Director may reduce the total minimum number of required parking spaces, provided that each use participating in shared parking experiences peak parking demands at different times.
(ii)
The Planning Director shall base this decision on the criteria established for each parking reduction.
b.
Parking Study. The Planning Director may require the applicant to submit a parking study to determine the peak parking demand periods or other information needed to determine the viability of joint parking.
2.
On-Street Parking.
a.
On-street parking consists of parking spaces located in a public right-of-way.
b.
Other than residential uses each parking space that is in a public right-of-way abutting the lot may count as a required parking space for the purpose of meeting the requirements in Table 3.1.3-2.
c.
Each parking space must be on a paved area abutting or within the public right-of-way. If it is in a public right-of-way, then it shall not create a safety hazard, prohibit or limit access for emergency service vehicles as required by the Fire Marshal.
3.
Captive Market. Parking requirements for retail and restaurant uses may be reduced up to twenty-five percent (25%) where it can be determined that some portion of the patronage of these businesses comes from other uses (i.e., employees of area offices patronizing restaurants) located within the same building or a maximum walking distance of five hundred (500) feet.
4.
Availability of Public Parking.
a.
Parking requirements may be reduced up to twenty percent (20%) if a property has available to it a sufficient supply of existing underutilized public parking spaces in off-street public parking lots or on-street public parking spaces.
b.
Parking must be within a maximum walking distance of five hundred (500) feet from the proposed use.
5.
Structured Parking.
a.
Parking reductions may be applied for providing parking in a parking structure in addition to any reduction in this subsection.
b.
For every one hundred (100) parking spaces located in an above-grade parking structure, a twenty percent (20%) reduction in required parking may be applied.
6.
M-1 and M-2 District Parking. Any new development in the M-1 and M-2 districts may apply a twenty-five percent (25%) reduction to the required parking ratio established in Table 3.1.3-2 for that particular use.
7.
Downtown McAllen C-C District Parking.
a.
Required parking ratios do not apply in the Downtown (DT) Subdistrict.
b.
Any new development or redevelopment in the Downtown Uptown (UT) Subdistrict may apply a fifty percent (50%) reduction to the required parking ratio established in Table 3.1.3-2 for that particular use.
8.
Infill Development Parking. Any new infill development may apply a thirty percent (30%) reduction to the required parking ratio established in Table 3.1.3-2 for that particular use.
9.
Downtown (DT) District. Any non-residential permittees in Downtown (DT) District that do not comply with the city's off-street parking requirement by providing the required minimum number of parking spaces shall in lieu of such compliance pay the applicable fee appearing in the table that follows. Payment of said fee shall be a condition, respectively, for: (i) the issuance of a building permit or the finaling of a miscellaneous inspection by the Building Official; and (ii) the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit; however, no additional fee shall be required whenever the same permittee applies to the Building Official for a building permit or a miscellaneous inspection within three years of being issued a Conditional Use Permit. In all cases the applicable fee shall be based on the square footage of any space for which the Building Official issues a building permit or conducts a miscellaneous inspection:
Gross Square Footage | Fee |
|---|---|
Less than 2,500 sq. ft. | $1,000.00 |
2,501 to 5,000 sq. ft. | $1,500.00 |
5,001 to 10,000 sq. ft. | $2,000.00 |
10,001 to 15,000 sq. ft. | $2,500.00 |
15,001 to 20,000 sq. ft. | $3,000.00 |
Over 20,000 sq. ft. | $3,500.00 |
C.
All other adjustments must go to the Zoning Board of Adjustments.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.4.5 Bicycle Parking Facilities.
A.
Generally.
1.
Bicycle parking is required for certain uses in the C-C, M-1, and M-2 zoning districts to encourage the use of bicycles by providing secure and convenient places to park bicycles.
2.
Required bicycle parking is designed so people of all ages and abilities can access bicycle parking and securely lock their bicycle without inconvenience.
3.
Bicycle spaces are measured as the ability for a facility to store one bicycle. One bicycle space equals one stored bicycle.
4.
A bicycle parking facility shall not obstruct pedestrian traffic or interfere with the use of the pedestrian area.
5.
Bicycle parking shall be required and comply with the City's Hike and Bike Master Plan.
B.
Required Minimums. Minimum bicycle parking shall follow the requirements established in Table 4.4.5-1.
Table 4.4.5-1: Minimum Bicycle Parking Ratios | |
|---|---|
Use Type | Minimum Bicycle Parking Ratios |
Multifamily Dwelling | 2/40 DU |
Mixed-Use Building | 2/1,000 SF |
Bar | 1/1,000 SF |
Brewpub | 1/1,000 SF |
Restaurant | 1/500 SF |
Non-Residential Building (larger than 10,000 SF) | 1/5,000 SF |
C.
Bicycle Parking Facility Types. Where bicycle parking is required, one of the following bicycle parking facility types established in Table 4.4.5-2 shall be provided.
Table 4.4.5-2: Bicycle Parking Facility Types | ||
|---|---|---|
Facility Type | Description | Graphic |
U-Rack | A "U-shaped" bicycle facility affixed to pavement that's stores up to two (2) bicycles which are locked from the outside |  |
Bollard Rack | A bicycle facility affixed to pavement that stores up to two (2) bicycles which are locked from the outside |  |
Low-Profile Rack | A low-lying bicycle facility affixed to pavement that stores multiple (1 to 20) bicycles which are locked from the outside |  |
Grid Rack | A dual-sided bicycle facility affixed to pavement that stores multiple (1 to 20) bicycles which are locked from the outside |  |
Bicycle Locker | A locker or box in which multiple bicycles can be placed, stored, and locked |  |
Secure Bicycle Parking Area | A weather-protected, standalone bicycling parking structure or building extension with shared racks and access control |  |
D.
Bicycle Facilities.
1.
Generally. A bicycle facility shall:
a.
Allow a bicycle frame and one wheel to be locked to the rack with a high-security lock;
b.
Allow a bicycle to be securely held with its frame supported in at least one place;
c.
Be durable and securely anchored;
d.
Have a locking surface thin enough to allow standard u-locks to be used, but thick enough so the rack cannot be cut with bolt cutters; and
e.
Not include any elements, impediments, or features within the interior space.
2.
Installation. A bicycle facility shall be:
a.
Available to the public;
b.
Located in a convenient, well-lit area that is clearly visible to both a visitor to the building and a person who is on the sidewalk that accesses the building's primary entrance;
c.
Within one hundred fifty (150) feet of:
(i)
The primary entrance of each building, and closer than the nearest vehicle parking space; or
(ii)
At least one primary entrance of a building with multiple entrances; unless an alternative location during the site plan process is approved; and
d.
Outfitted to where a bicycle can be safely and securely locked.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.5.1 Purpose.
The purposes of this article are to:
A.
Ensure that adequate loading facilities are provided for new land uses;
B.
Establish standards and regulations for safe and well-designed loading and unloading to minimize conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles within parking areas and surrounding land uses; and
C.
Minimize the impact of improperly planned loading areas.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.5.2 Applicability.
A.
Any new commercial, industrial, or public/civic/institutional building, structure, use, redeveloped site, or enlarged or expanded existing building or use as identified in Table 3.1.3-2, must meet this article's requirements unless specifically exempted.
B.
This article does not apply to residential, accessory, and temporary uses.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.5.3 Compliance Required.
Each application for a site plan, building permit, or certificate of occupancy shall include information as to the location and dimensions of loading facilities, and the means of ingress and egress to those facilities. This information is in sufficient detail to determine the requirements of this UDC are met and shall contain the necessary information required by applicable provisions of this UDC.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.5.4 Standards.
A.
Generally. The required number of off-street loading spaces is determined by gross floor area. Outdoor storage, sales, or display areas must be added to gross floor area if these areas contain materials that are received or distributed by trucks. If a development has more than two uses, the off-street loading space requirement is the highest number of spaces required by any one use. Required loading spaces follow the standards provided in Table 4.5.4-1.
Table 4.5.4-1: Required Loading | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Minimum Required Number of Spaces by Land Use Category | ||||||
Floor Area Square Footage | Automotive | Commercial | Public/ Institutional | Industrial | Transportation | Infrastructure |
0 to 10,000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
10,001 to 15,000 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
15,001 to 25,000 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
25,001 to 50,000 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 |
50,001 to 100,000 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 3 | |
100,000 + | 4 + 1 for each additional 100,000 sf | 4 + 1 for each additional 75,000 sf | 4 + 1 for each additional 100,000 sf | 5 + 1 for each additional 50,000 sf | 4 + 1 for each additional 100,000 sf | 4 + 1 for each additional 100,000 sf |
B.
Location. A loading space is:
1.
Located within the same development as the building or use served;
2.
Prohibited from projecting into a sidewalk, street, or public right-of-way;
3.
Prohibited from being located between the front building line and the front property line;
4.
Located to the rear or side of buildings and is visually unobtrusive;
5.
Set back a minimum distance of one hundred (100) feet from any adjacent residential zoning district or use unless completely enclosed by building walls, a uniformly solid wall, or any combination of the two;
6.
Set back a minimum distance of forty (40) feet from any public street, nearest point of intersection on any two streets or highway, or front property line; and
7.
Oriented away from the street frontage.
Figure 4.5.4-1: Loading Space Illustration  |
C.
Dimensions.
1.
Unless otherwise specified, all off-street loading spaces shall have a minimum dimension of twelve (12) feet by sixty (60) feet and an overhead clearance of fifteen (15) feet.
2.
In no case shall required off-street loading spaces encroach upon off-street parking spaces required by this article, or on public right-of-way.
D.
Maneuvering.
1.
The size of delivery vehicles intending to serve the site determines maneuvering area size.
2.
Each maneuvering area for loading spaces must not conflict with parking spaces or with the maneuvering areas for spaces.
3.
A maneuvering area must be located on-site and have a minimum of sixty-five (65) feet for spaces serving delivery vehicles.
E.
Design.
1.
Each loading space must minimize conflicts with other vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic.
2.
Loading spaces shall be designed so that vehicles shall maneuver entirely within the property lines of the premises and not on public right-of-way.
3.
Unenclosed off-street loading areas shall be permanently paved with hard-surfaced pavement.
4.
Landscaping and screening requirements, provided in Article 4.6 and Article 4.7, apply to loading facilities and shall prevent direct views of the loading facilities and their driveways from adjacent properties and public right-of-way.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.6.1 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to preserve McAllen's unique character and integrate and enhance new development by promoting landscape design that:
A.
Reinforces the identity of the community;
B.
Appropriately situates new buildings in the landscape;
C.
Provides adequate vegetation for screening and buffering between land uses;
D.
Provides tree canopies to reduce urban heat island effect;
E.
Preserves the existing native trees and other physical site values where possible;
F.
Reduce soil erosion and reduce stormwater runoff;
G.
Aid in energy conservation for structures;
H.
Balances water demand and use;
I.
Soften the visual impact of paved areas, parking lots, and adjoining right-of-way;
J.
Identifies climate-appropriate landscape material; and
K.
Protects natural resources.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.6.2 Applicability.
A.
Generally. The Division applies to:
1.
All nonresidential, multifamily, and mixed-use developments for new construction within McAllen's corporate limits except for the exemptions listed below.
2.
The following landscaping standards apply to all new nonresidential development and to the expansion by more than twenty-five percent (25%) of an existing building mass or site in any zone.
3.
If a principal nonresidential use and some or all of the parking area (required or otherwise provided) serving the principal nonresidential use are located on separate lots or parcels, the landscape installation required in this article shall apply.
B.
Exemptions. This article does not apply to:
1.
Any property with a site plan that was approved prior to the adoption of this UDC, unless an amended site plan is required by the requirements in the submittal checklist.
2.
Properties containing only single-family or two-family land uses unless otherwise specified.
3.
Properties in the City Core (C-C) Districts unless otherwise specified.
4.
Any development that utilizes zero property line setbacks as permitted by applicable zoning specifications shall be exempt from landscaping requirements for each applicable yard area.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.6.3 Compliance Required.
A.
Each application for a site plan or building permit shall include information as to the location, dimensions, and types of trees and landscaping required. This information is in sufficient detail to determine the requirements of this article are met and shall contain necessary information required by applicable provisions of this article.
B.
A landscape plan is required and shall be shown as part of the site plan or building permit. Landscape plans shall meet the requirements established in the submittal checklist.
C.
No permits shall be issued for building, paving, grading, or construction until a landscape plan is approved. Prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for any building or structure, all landscaping shall be in place in accordance with the landscape plan.
D.
If a certificate of occupancy is sought at a season of the year in which the Planning Director determines that it would be impractical to plant trees, shrubs, or grass, or to lay turf, a temporary certificate of occupancy may be issued if a letter of agreement from the property owner is provided stating when the installation shall occur. All landscaping required by the landscape plan shall be installed within six (6) months of the date of issuance of the temporary certificate of occupancy or the site shall be deemed to be in violation of this UDC and the temporary certificate of occupancy shall be revoked.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.6.4 Standards.
A.
Required Landscape Area.
1.
A minimum of ten percent (10%) of the area of any lot or parcel shall be devoted to landscape material and comply with the intent and purpose of this article and fifty percent (50%) of such landscaped area for nonresidential lots shall be visible from the street fronting the developed property.
2.
Landscape areas located within the street and alley rights-of-way shall not be credited towards meeting the minimum landscape area requirement, however, right-of-way areas shall be landscaped.
3.
Landscape areas associated with drainage detention facilities located on the lot or parcel may be credited towards the landscape area requirement. Trees and shrubs are not permitted in detention areas.
4.
A minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the area within the required front yard of any residential parcel shall be devoted to landscape material.
5.
The portion of the front yard for any residential parcel located between the property line and the extension of the side yard setback line shall be devoted to landscape material.
6.
Treed landscape areas shall be located within one hundred (100) feet of any parking space (see Figure 4.6.4-1).
Figure 4.6.4-1: Parking Facility Tree Landscape Area Requirements  |
7.
Landscape areas within public and private rights-of-way, stormwater detention facilities, medians and islands shall comply with the specifications of the department of engineering. Landscape areas within rights-of-way shall be maintained in perpetuity by the property owners as common area. Trees located in landscape areas within street rights-of-way shall not be planted closer than six (6) feet from the back of the curb, or three (3) feet from the edge of an existing or future sidewalk.
B.
Landscape Buffers.
1.
A buffer shall be provided where a nonresidential use has a side or rear area property line in common with any residential use or zoning district. A masonry screen eight (8) feet in height shall be required where a commercial, industrial or multifamily use has a side or rear property line in common with a single-family use or zoning district. Where such use has two hundred (200) feet or less in common with any residential use or zoning district, the buffer shall be eight (8) feet in height but may be cedar planks.
2.
A buffer shall be provided where a multifamily use of four (4) or more dwelling units per structure has a side or rear area property line in common with any single-family residential use.
3.
A buffer shall be no closer to the street than the property line or landscape strip area, whichever is greater. Section 4.2.9 concerning sight obstructions at intersections shall be applicable to the screen where it is intersected by a street or alley.
4.
A landscape strip area with a minimum width of ten (10) feet shall be provided along and within the property lines of all nonresidential and multifamily uses contiguous to a public street, excluding driveway entrances and exits. For properties having a lot depth of less than two hundred (200) feet, the landscaped strip may be reduced to a minimum width of five (5) feet with a landscape hedge not exceeding three (3) feet in height.
5.
A wood or masonry or combination of wood and masonry buffer shall be provided along rear property lines of residential uses contiguous to a public street. Rear access to a residential use from a public street is prohibited where such residential use has access to a public street along the front property line. The buffer shall be constructed prior to final acceptance of the subdivision development improvements or prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for properties with an approved subdivision plat prior to the effective date of this ordinance. The buffer is required to be maintained by property owners of the subdivision or by the subdivision homeowners association.
6.
A buffer shall be provided to screen refuse areas (including refuse dumpsters, compactors and contained compactors), outdoor storage areas and loading docks from public streets.
C.
Planting Criteria.
1.
Trees. Trees planted for credit under Section 4.6.5 shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet in height from ground level to top of crown when measured immediately after planting. In the case of palms, the required measurement shall be six (6) feet from ground level to base of live palm fronds. Trees shall be of a species having an average mature crown spread of greater than fifteen (15) feet in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (except palms) and having trunks which can be maintained in a clean condition for over six (6) feet of clear wood measured from the ground. Trees having an average mature crown spread less than fifteen (15) feet may be substituted by grouping such trees so as to create the equivalent of a fifteen (15) foot crown spread.
2.
Shrubs. Shrubs shall be a minimum of one (1) foot in height when measured immediately after planting.
3.
Vines. Vines shall be a minimum of thirty (30) inches in height one (1) year after planting and may be used in conjunction with fences, screens or walls to meet buffer requirements and specifications.
4.
Ground Covers. Ground covers other than grass shall be planted in such a manner as to present a finished appearance and reasonably complete coverage within one (1) year after planting.
5.
Lawn Grass. Grass areas shall be planted in species normally grown as permanent lawns in the City. Grass areas may be sodded, plugged, sprigged, or seeded except that solid sod shall be used in swales or other areas subject to erosion.
6.
Synthetic Lawns or Plants. Synthetic or artificial lawns or plants shall not be used in lieu of plant requirements in this article.
7.
Architectural Planters. The use of architectural planters may be permitted in fulfillment of landscape requirements as approved by the Development Team, but may not be allowed in right-of-way, unless permitted by a license agreement.
8.
A list of trees, shrubs, vines, and ground covers native to the Lower Rio Grande Valley shall be prepared by the Department of Parks and Recreation and provided by the Planning Department.
9.
Landscape irrigation requirements for nonresidential and multifamily uses:
a.
The owner shall be responsible for the irrigation of all landscape areas and plant materials, utilizing one (1) or a combination of the following methods:
(i)
An automatic underground irrigation system (conventional spray, bubbler, and the like); or
(ii)
An automatic water-saving irrigation system (drip, porous pipe, leaky pipe, and the like).
b.
The irrigation method used shall:
(i)
Provide a moisture level in an amount and frequency adequate to sustain growth of the plant materials on a permanent basis;
(ii)
Be in place and operational at the time of the landscape inspection for certificate of occupancy unless an alternative method is approved; and
(iii)
Be maintained and kept operational at all times to provide for efficient water distribution.
c.
Landscape areas utilizing xeriscape plants and installation techniques, including areas planted with native grasses and wildflowers, may use a temporary and aboveground system and shall be required to provide irrigation for the first two (2) growing seasons and thereafter must maintain viability of plant material.
d.
Landscape plans shall indicate, by a detail, a drawing, or by specification in a note on the site plan, the nature and location of irrigation which shall be used; these should be specific enough to show that adequate irrigation shall be provided to all required landscape areas and plant material.
e.
No irrigation shall be required for undisturbed natural areas or undisturbed existing trees.
10.
Xeriscape areas shall provide a minimum of fifty percent (50%) of the landscaped areas with ground cover or grasses. Xeriscape areas not covered by grasses or ground cover shall be mulched or use another approved ground cover. A list of indigenous plant species for xeriscape areas shall be prepared by the Department of Parks and Recreation and provided by the Planning Department. (See sample list in Appendix B[1])
[1]
Editor's note—Said appendix is included as an attachment to this chapter.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.6.5 Tree Credits.
For all non-single-family residential development, a minimum of one tree of at least two and one-half (2.5) inch caliper in size and ten (10) feet in height shall be included and replaced as necessary as per the following ratios:
A.
When the required area being landscaped is from one (1) to two thousand (2,000) square feet, a minimum of one (1) tree for every two hundred (200) square feet of landscape area shall be required.
B.
When the required area being landscaped is from two thousand one (2,001) to ten thousand (10,000) square feet, a minimum of ten (10) trees for the first two thousand (2,000) square feet and one (1) tree for every five hundred (500) square feet over two thousand (2,000) square feet of landscape area shall be required.
C.
When the required area being landscaped is from ten thousand one (10,001) or greater square feet a minimum of twenty-six (26) trees for the first ten thousand (10,000) square feet and one (1) tree for every eight hundred (800) square feet over ten thousand (10,000) square feet of landscape area shall be required.
D.
Three palm trees with a minimum of six (6) feet of clear trunk is the equivalent of one two and one-half-inch (2.5) caliper tree. The number of palms trees shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total number of trees required.
E.
Credit for trees (excluding palm trees):
Table 4.6.5-1: Tree Credits | |
|---|---|
Tree Credits | |
Caliper | Number of Trees |
> 8 inch caliper | 6 tree credits |
> 6 inch caliper | 4 tree credits |
> 4 inch caliper | 2 tree credits |
F.
In order to encourage the preservation of existing trees, credit shall be given to existing trees (excluding palm trees) according to the following schedule:
Table 4.6.5-2: Existing Tree Credits | |
|---|---|
Existing Tree Credits | |
Caliper | Number of Trees |
> 20 inch caliper | 12 tree credits |
> 16 inch caliper | 10 tree credits |
> 12 inch caliper | 8 tree credits |
> 8 inch caliper | 6 tree credits |
> 4 inch caliper | 4 tree credits |
G.
The minimum planting area shall be one-half (0.5) the radius of the crown spread for an existing tree measured from the trunk center, or not less than a radius of two and one-half (2.5) feet, measured from the center of the tree trunk to the near edge of the planting area whichever is greater. The ground surface within the planting areas shall be maintained in a porous or vegetative cover. Plastic underliners shall not be permitted.
H.
Single-family residential development shall provide a minimum of one non-palm tree for the first fifty (50) feet of lot frontage and one additional non-palm tree for each additional twenty-five (25) feet of lot frontage. Trees required for single-family residential development shall be located within the front yard. Tree credits as per subsection E may be used.
I.
For single-family residential development, three (3) palm trees with a minimum of six (6) feet of clear trunk is the equivalent of one two and one-half-inch (2.5) caliper tree. The number of palms trees shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total number of trees required.
J.
A native, non-palm tree, as listed in Section 4.6.4C with a minimum caliper of two inches and a minimum height of six (6) feet shall be the equivalent of one and one-half (1.5) required trees. Native tree credit is in addition to credit for large caliper and existing tree credit. Of the vegetation required by this article, the use of ten percent (10%) native plant material may be permitted.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.6.6 Tree Removal.
A.
The owner of the lot or parcel or the manager or agent, shall be responsible for the maintenance of all landscape areas, which shall be maintained so as to present a healthy, neat and orderly appearance at all times and shall be kept free from refuse and debris. All landscaped areas shall be irrigated and shall be watered regularly to ensure continuous healthy growth and development. Maintenance shall include the replacement of all dead plant material.
B.
No trees over twenty (20) inches in DBH (diameter at breast height) shall be removed without, in the case of any existing or proposed commercial development, submitting to the Planning Director for review a survey of the property in question which includes all trees with a DBH of over twenty (20) inches.
C.
The Planning Director shall expeditiously review the submitted survey and work with the applicant in a pre-development conference to preserve as many existing trees over twenty (20) inches DBH which said preserved trees shall serve as a credit to the applicant's total aggregate number of caliper inches that they are required to plant as per this article.
D.
In the case of an existing commercial development, no trees may be removed from the development's existing landscape plan without first submitting a replacement landscaping plan for review, consideration and approval by the City; or, in the case of an issue involving three trees or less, the submission of a one page application to remove any tree that has become a hazard to the existing development with a plan to immediately replace it with another tree or trees of an equivalent caliper inch. Applications to remove and replace three trees or less shall be deemed automatically approved unless the City objects in writing within ten (10) business days of filing.
E.
Nothing in this article shall require any application from or permit to any public utility provider prior to removing a tree whenever it has determined the tree poses a hazard, or interferes with restoration or continuation of utility services.
F.
Violations of this section shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000.00 per occurrence.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.6.7 Minor Modifications.
A.
In special cases where the paved area is less than ten thousand (10,000) square feet and where there are unusual and practical difficulties requirement established in this article may be reduced through a minor modification approved by the Planning Director.
B.
The Planning Director shall find that the minor modification:
1.
Is appropriate and necessary for the development;
2.
Does not adversely affect surrounding properties; and
3.
Is consistent with the purpose of this article.
C.
Any modification seeking more reduction relief requires a variance.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.7.1 Purpose.
The purposes of this article are to:
A.
Minimize conflicts between potentially incompatible land uses and development on abutting property;
B.
Ensure that screening devices and fences are attractive and in character with the neighborhood;
C.
Maintain fences by recognizing their use to create privacy; and
D.
Distinguish screening devices and fences from each other by clearly defining the two terms and applying specific standards to each term.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.7.2 Applicability.
This article applies to all development within the City's corporate limits. This article does not apply to residential development unless otherwise specified.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.7.3 Screening Device Standards.
A.
Generally.
1.
All required screening devices must be equally finished on both sides.
2.
All openings in the surface for passage shall be equipped with gates equal in height and screening characteristics specified below, but need not be of the same material as the main fence or wall.
3.
Where a screening device is constructed, placed or planted on uneven terrain, there shall be no gap under the device, and the device must be composed of the same material throughout.
4.
No screening device comprised of brick, masonry, concrete, or solid metal shall be erected or placed that would interfere with the installation or maintenance of any public utility line, service, or drainage way within a dedicated easement unless approved by the City Engineer.
5.
No screening device shall conflict with the sight visibility triangle requirements of section 4.2.9.
6.
Any required screening device provided by a more intensive use abutting a residential use or district shall be permanently and adequately maintained by the more intensive use's property owner.
7.
If there is an existing screening device or fence along a residential property line and a nonresidential use is proposed, the required screening device shall be a living plant screen that complies with the requirements established in section 4.6.4C and is deemed acceptable by the Planning Director. However, this requirement may be waived if a five-foot minimum space between two screening devices and fences is provided for maintenance access. The intent of these requirements is to eliminate screening situations where two screening walls or fences abut each other.
8.
Before certificate of occupancy permit issuance, all approved screening devices must be in place.
9.
All screening devices shall be permanently and continually maintained in a neat and orderly manner as a condition of use. The occupancy permit may be revoked by the Building Official for failure to adequately maintain such screening device.
B.
Exceptions. Required screening devices are not required if:
1.
An approved screening device already exists along the property line.
2.
The portion of the subject property to be screened contains a wooded area that shall be maintained for the life of the project and a tree survey indicates that a majority of the trees in the wooded area on the subject property are found on the approved plant list maintained by the Planning Department; or
3.
The portion of the subject property to be screened is adjacent to a floodplain containing existing trees that provide natural screening.
4.
If a shared access easement is agreed upon between developing property and undeveloped property and recorded by plat or separate instrument.
C.
Design Requirements. A screening device shall be erected or placed in all locations and follow all provisions specified below:
1.
Height. The minimum and maximum screening device height follow the requirements established in Table 4.7.3-1.
Table 4.7.3-1: Screening Height Requirements | ||
|---|---|---|
Screening Type | Minimum Height (ft) | Maximum Height (ft) |
Refuse | 8 | 12 |
Outdoor Storage | 6 | 10 |
Multifamily | 8 | 10 |
Industrial | 8 | 12 |
Automotive | 6 | 10 |
Other Required Screening | 6 | 8 |
2.
Materials The materials shall consist of one or more of the following unless specified elsewhere in this UDC (See Figure 4.7.3-1: Acceptable Screening Devices):
a.
Brick masonry, stone masonry, concrete block, or other architectural masonry finish;
b.
Tubular steel (primed and painted) or wrought iron fence with masonry columns spaced a maximum of twenty (20) feet on center with structural supports spaced every ten (10) feet, and with sufficient evergreen landscaping to create a solid screening effect;
c.
Living plant screens (evergreen shrubs with a minimum of three feet in height at the time of planting) that shall not be detrimental to adjacent property and shall provide sufficient visual screening based on the proposed location and characteristics of the project. A living plant screen shall comply with the requirements established in section 4.6.4C; or
d.
Alternate equivalent screening that provides an exceptional screening aesthetic, meets sound structural practices and engineering design criteria, and meets the intent and function of this article at the discretion of the Building Official.
Figure 4.7.3-1: Acceptable Screening Devices  |
3.
Locational Requirements. The following locational requirements apply:
a.
All allowed open storage of materials, equipment, or commodities shall be screened from view from all streets and any residential properties. Materials, equipment, or commodities shall be stacked no higher than one foot below the top of the screening device or visual barrier.
b.
Garbage, trash, or refuse containers shall meet the requirements established in the Standard Design Guide (SDG).
c.
All wrecking yards, junkyards, or salvage yards shall be contained on all sides and shall be screened from view from the public right-of-way and from adjacent residential property.
d.
Ground mechanical and heating and air conditioning equipment in nonresidential and multifamily uses shall be screened from view from the public right-of-way and from adjacent residential property.
e.
For commercial and industrial uses, vehicles and equipment awaiting repair for more than 24 hours or after the close of business shall be screened from view from public right-of-way and from adjacent residential property.
f.
A screening device meeting the standards established in Table 4.7.3-1 shall be constructed on nonresidential property adjacent to residential property lines.
g.
Nonresidential uses in a residential district shall be screened from view of any adjacent residential lot or dwelling use along the side and rear property lines of that nonresidential use. These screening requirements are not required for public schools, parks, or religious land uses, except where a parking lot or active outdoor intensive use area (such as a playground) is adjacent to a residential lot or dwelling.
h.
Off-street loading areas of any nonresidential use shall be screened from view of any residential dwelling or lot or of any other adjacent public land use.
i.
Where a multifamily residential use abuts a single-family or two-family residential use or district, the side and rear property lines of that multifamily use shall be screened from view of adjacent dwelling(s) (see the red dashed line in Figure 4.7.3-2: Required Multifamily Screening Abutting a Residential Lot or Use).
Figure 4.7.3-2: Required Multifamily Screening Abutting a Residential Lot or Use  |
j.
No screening device or fence greater than three feet shall be erected, placed, or planted beyond the front building line of any permitted building in a residential district, either on a corner lot or interior lot, unless otherwise allowed by the Zoning Board of Adjustment through a variance request.
k.
Where a nonresidential use abuts a residential lot or use, the side and rear property lines abutting that residential lot or use shall be suitably screened by the nonresidential use so as to obscure the view from the residential lot, use, or district to the nonresidential use to a height not less than six (6) feet (see the red dashed line in Figure 4.7.3-3: Required Nonresidential Screening Abutting a Residential Lot or Use).
Figure 4.7.3-3: Required Nonresidential Screening Abutting a Residential Lot or Use  |
l.
Where a district boundary separating a residential district from a nonresidential district is along a street or alley, and a parking area is located in the front yard of the nonresidential use, then the parking area facing the residential lot, use, or district shall be suitably screened to a height of at least than three (3) feet.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.7.4 Fencing Standards.
A.
Generally.
1.
Fences are not required for any property within the corporate limits.
2.
No fences exceeding three (3) feet in height shall be allowed in the required front yard in any residential district.
3.
No fence shall be allowed in the required right-of-way.
4.
No fence shall conflict with the sight visibility triangle requirements as per Standard Design Guide.
5.
Every fenced enclosure constructed under the provisions of this section shall have at least one (1) gate in its perimeter.
6.
All fences constructed under the provisions of this section shall be maintained so as to comply with the requirements of this section at all times. The Building Official may order the repair or removal of a fence if it is more than five percent (5%) damaged or leaning ten (10) degrees from vertical. Fences shall be repaired in compliance with the provisions of this section.
B.
Corner Lots.
1.
On all corner lots in residential districts that have opposing rear property lines, fences may be constructed not to exceed eight (8) feet in height along the side and rear property lines, as indicated in Figure 4.7.4-1. Fencing for corner lots shall comply with sight visibility standards in Section 4.2.9.
Figure 4.7.4-1: Fence Height Restrictions for Corner Lots with Opposing Rear Property Lines  |
2.
On all residential district corner lots where the rear property line is opposed to a side property line across an alley from that side property line, no fence exceeding three (3) feet in height shall be constructed upon or within the side yard that is next to the street at a distance from the side building line greater than the minimum side yard requirement, as indicated in Figure 4.7.4-2.
Figure 4.7.4-2: Fence Height Restrictions for Corner Lots with Opposing Rear and Side Property Lines  |
3.
On all residential district corner lots that are key lots, the corner lot shall have a front building line on both streets, unless that key lot is separated from other lots by a dedicated street or alley. Where the property lines are opposed to a side property line of an adjoining lot, no fence exceeding three (3) feet in height shall be constructed between the front building lines and the side yard line of the abutting lot, as indicated in Figure 4.7.4-3.
Figure 4.7.4-3: Fence Height Restrictions for Key Corner Lots  |
C.
Design Requirements.
1.
The minimum fence height is six (6) feet from average lot grade with a maximum height of eight (8) feet, unless otherwise specified.
2.
Treated lumber is attached with galvanized screws to galvanized poles installed in premixed concrete, and other materials as approved by the Planning Director.
D.
Security Fencing.
1.
Barbed wire fences used in conjunction with permitted agricultural and related activities are permitted without restrictions, but are expressly prohibited in all other districts except as provided below.
2.
In residential areas, barbed wire, razor wire, electrified fencing, or other hazardous material are not allowed in the construction of fencing.
3.
No fence that conducts an electrical current is allowed in any district or for any use except for those uses in an agricultural zoning district or for a correctional facility.
4.
Barbed wire strands may be placed on top of permitted fences and screening devices in any nonresidential district for the purpose of security from theft, entry, and hazard around public utility substations and uses of a similar nature, provided the top strand is not higher than twelve (12) feet nor the bottom strand lower than eight (8) feet from the adjacent grade line.
5.
Barbed wire may be placed on gate arms, fences, and screening devices in industrial zoning districts.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.8.1 Purpose.
The purposes of this article are to:
A.
Allow the use of outdoor lighting for nighttime safety, utility, security, productivity, enjoyment, and commerce;
B.
Minimize adverse off-site impacts of lighting;
C.
Curtail light pollution, reduce skyglow, and improve the nighttime environment for astronomy;
D.
Help protect the natural environment from the adverse effects of night lighting from gas or electric sources;
E.
Conserve energy and resources to the greatest extent possible; and
F.
Encourage outdoor lighting that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and complementary to the architectural style of buildings or settings.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.8.2 Applicability.
This article applies to all outdoor lighting within the corporate limits. All outdoor lighting installed after the effective date of this UDC shall comply with this article.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.8.3 Exemptions.
The following are exempt from the regulations in this article unless noted otherwise:
A.
Single-family residential uses are exempt from the lighting plan requirements, but when lighting is provided, it is subject to the standards of this article.
B.
Public street lighting, providing that new street lighting shall be approved by the Traffic Department.
C.
Temporary holiday displays.
D.
Emergency/warning lights.
E.
City-owned facilities, provided these uses meet the following standards:
1.
The luminaire angle from a lighting source that illuminates a recreational use may exceed an angle of zero degrees only to the extent necessary for lighting the use, provided that the luminaire is shielded to minimize spillover to surrounding properties;
2.
Maximum permitted illumination at the property line for a recreational use shall be two footcandles; and
3.
Exterior lighting for a recreational use shall be extinguished as soon as possible after the event.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.8.4 Compliance Required.
A.
Site plans prepared under this UDC shall include an acknowledgement that the applicant and designer have reviewed Article 4.8 and that the site, as designed, complies.
B.
Before certificate of occupancy issuance for any building or structure, all lighting shall be in place in compliance with this Article 4.8.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.8.5 Standards.
A.
Generally.
1.
The direct or reflected light from any light fixture shall not create a traffic hazard to operators of motor vehicles on public streets or to operators of aircraft, and no colored lights may be used in such a way as to be confused or construed as street-traffic or air traffic-control devices.
2.
No blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights, or other illuminated device that has a changing light intensity, brightness, or color, is permitted in any zoning district.
3.
The Building Official may require modifications to outdoor lighting after installation upon finding that the lighting, as installed, does not comply with these standards.
Figure 4.8.5-1: Light Fixture Examples  |
B.
Lighting Design.
1.
All outdoor lighting shall meet the functional security needs of the proposed land use without adversely affecting surrounding properties and the natural environment.
2.
All new and replacement light fixtures shall be full cutoff, except that light sources not exceeding five hundred (500) lumens for individual light fixtures, one hundred fifty (150) lumens for individual lights in a light string (e.g., patio lights), and three thousand (3,000) Kelvin in color temperature are not required to be full cutoff. For cutoff light fixtures, refer to Figure 4.8.5-1: Light Fixture Examples.
3.
Light sources shall be concealed or shielded to minimize the potential for glare and light pollution.
4.
Light fixtures shall be installed so that the luminaire angle is zero degrees (vertical to the ground).
5.
Lights that shine outward and create direct glare are prohibited.
6.
The amount of light trespass projected onto a residential use from another property shall not exceed 0.1 footcandles at the property line.
7.
Lighting shall be distributed evenly to minimize extremes in luminance levels.
8.
Light types of limited spectral emission, such as low-pressure sodium or mercury vapor lights, are prohibited in all areas.
9.
Energy efficient lighting shall be used to the maximum extent practicable.
10.
Light sources in residential zoning districts shall not exceed three thousand (3,000) Kelvin in color temperature.
11.
Light sources in nonresidential zoning districts shall not exceed five thousand (5,000) Kelvin in color temperature.
12.
Light fixtures used to illuminate flags, statues, or any other objects shall minimize glare beyond the illuminated object.
C.
Lighting Height.
1.
Light fixtures mounted to a building or structure shall not exceed the height of the building or structure.
2.
Freestanding light fixtures located in residential zoning districts shall be mounted no higher than twenty (20) feet from the ground.
3.
Freestanding light fixtures located in other zoning districts shall be mounted no higher than thirty-five (35) feet from the ground.
4.
Light fixtures higher than the maximum heights specified in this subsection, but not exceeding the maximum structure height in the applicable zoning district, are prohibited unless the Building Official finds that such lighting is appropriate and necessary for the development, shall not adversely affect surrounding properties and is consistent with the purpose of the lighting standards.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.8.6 Minor Modifications.
A.
Lighting fixture heights greater than those established in this article may be heightened by five feet through a minor modification approved by the Building Official.
B.
The Building Official shall find that the heightened lighting fixture:
1.
Is appropriate and necessary for the development;
2.
Does not adversely affect surrounding properties; and
3.
Is consistent with the purposes of this article.
C.
Any lighting fixture height greater than those granted through a minor modification requires a variance by the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.1 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to regulate signs of all types (permanent and temporary) in a manner that:
A.
Protects constitutional rights to free speech by providing ample opportunities for expression through signs, while avoiding content-based distinctions, and providing clear approval standards;
B.
Protects public health and safety by:
1.
Minimizing visual traffic hazards, distractions and obstructions for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, or signs causing confusion by virtue of visual similarity to traffic-control signs;
2.
Reducing hazards caused by collapse, fire, collision, decay or abandonment;
3.
Not obstructing firefighting or police surveillance; and
4.
Encouraging the upgrading, updating, or removal of signs that are poorly maintained, or do not conform to this article, and preventing signs that are potentially dangerous due to structural deficiencies and disrepair.
C.
Enhances the appearance and economic value of the landscape, by providing that signs:
1.
Do not interfere with scenic views;
2.
Do not create a nuisance to persons using the public rights-of-way;
3.
Do not constitute a nuisance to occupancy of adjacent and contiguous property by their brightness, size, height, or movement; and
4.
Are not detrimental to land or property values.
D.
Promotes the community's appearance, character, quality, and business climate by encouraging signs that are attractive and functional for their intended purpose, and that are in scale and harmony with the development site and building(s) and with surrounding areas;
E.
Reduces and prevents visual clutter or potential deterioration of the community's appearance and attractiveness; and
F.
Implements the goals and policies of the City's adopted planning policies by establishing uniform standards and procedures to regulate the size, type, number, design, placement, illumination, timeframe for display, and maintenance of signs.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.2 Applicability.
A.
Generally.
1.
This article applies everywhere within the City's corporate limits and its extraterritorial jurisdiction, except as specifically stated otherwise in this article.
2.
This article does not prohibit signs required by state or federal law and does not authorize signs that state or federal law prohibits.
3.
A person shall not erect, operate, display, or otherwise use any sign that this article prohibits.
4.
A person shall not erect, operate, display, or otherwise use any sign at a time, place, or manner that this article prohibits.
B.
Message Neutrality.
1.
Content Neutrality. Despite any other provision of this article, no sign is subject to any limitation based on the content of its message.
2.
Substitution Allowed. Any sign authorized in this article may contain any noncommercial copy or messages instead of a commercial or another noncommercial message.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.3 Prohibited Signs.
The following signs and related objects are prohibited from being installed or publicly displayed at any location within the City's corporate limits and its extraterritorial jurisdiction, except as otherwise specifically provided within this article, and if only after authorized issuance of a City-issued sign permit required by this article.
A.
Moving and flashing signs, including signs that flash, revolve, rotate, swing, undulate or otherwise attract attention through the movement or flashing of lights, LEDs, or other parts, or through the impression of movement or flashing. However, this prohibition shall not apply to:
1.
Noncommercial message(s); and
2.
Signs that are fully located within an enclosed building that are not observable from the exterior of that building.
B.
Signs which employ a motion picture machine, or which display moving images, or images which give the impression of motion, including those using digital display.
C.
Signs which are of a size, location, movement, content, coloring, or manner of illumination, which may be confused with or construed as a traffic-control device or which hide from view any traffic or street sign or signal, or which obstruct the view in any direction at a street or road intersection.
D.
Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles, trailers, or equipment that are parked on a public right-of-way, public property or private property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way.
E.
Signs displaying "hate speech" as defined by American Case Law.
F.
No person shall attach any sign, paper or other material to, or paint, stencil or write anything on, or otherwise mark on any sidewalk, curb, gutter, street utility pole, tree, public building or structure unless authorized by this article or by the City Commission or its delegated representatives.
G.
No person shall erect or allow to be erected any sign in, on or over public rights-of-way and easements, railroad right-of-way or designated fire lanes unless specifically exempted by this article or unless erected under a valid, unexpired permit as specifically set forth elsewhere in this article.
H.
No person shall paint a sign or attach a sign to the exterior of a fence or railing (unless regulatory in nature).
I.
No person shall hold, display, or wear a sign unless on private property and not in the right-of-way.
J.
Signs which do not comply with any applicable provision of a building code, electrical code or other applicable code or ordinance of the City.
K.
Messages displayed from searchlights.
L.
Signs that are in disrepair to the extent that the cost of repair would exceed fifty percent (50%) of the value of a similar sign if purchased new and signs in danger of falling or that are otherwise unsafe to the public.
M.
Signs that display multidimensional projections of diffracted light are prohibited.
N.
Signs that are located on or that interfere with the use of public sidewalks, required off-street parking areas, or vehicle maneuvering areas unless specifically regulated in this article.
O.
A sign other than a traffic-control sign or signal, in a sight visibility triangle as provided in Section 4.2.9.
P.
Any unauthorized sign on or attached to a public streetlight, utility pole, hydrant, bridge, traffic-control device, street sign or other public structure or building, or any sign located in, on, over or within a public street, sidewalk, alley, easement or right-of-way.
Q.
Signs (illuminated from within or without) that are illuminated in such a manner, to such intensity, or without shielding, so as to constitute a hazard to the operation of motor vehicles upon a street or substantially interfere with the reasonable enjoyment of property.
R.
Signs located on private property without the consent of that property owner.
S.
Signs that use a revolving beam or beacon resembling any emergency vehicle, or are located or illuminated in such a manner as to obscure or otherwise interfere with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, signal or device, or so as to prevent any traveler on any street from obtaining a clear view of approaching vehicles for a distance of at least 250 feet along the street.
T.
All signs not expressly allowed, exempted, or permitted under this article.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.4 Exempt Signs.
The following signs and related objects are generally allowed to be erected and publicly displayed at any location within the City's corporate limits and its extraterritorial jurisdiction, except as otherwise specifically provided within this article, and a city-issued sign permit is not required in order to erect and display any of the following signs unless specifically set forth in this section.
A.
Any signs and signals properly authorized by law, signs authorized by statute or a state agency in accordance with the Texas Manual of Uniform Traffic-Control Devices, and other traffic signals, public warnings, or legal notices provided that such objects are installed in a location and in a manner and condition required by federal or state statute, a state agency, or a City ordinance or authorized authority.
B.
Existing nonconforming signs and existing billboards as defined in this UDC.
C.
Signs required by governmental bodies or agencies having proper jurisdiction for a public purpose by law, statute or ordinance. This also includes any signs the City Commission decides by ordinance or resolution to erect within its corporate limits, extraterritorial jurisdiction, or any real property that it may own or control.
D.
Signs on vehicles, trailers, or equipment are exempted only to the extent such signs are incidental to the primary use of the vehicle, trailer, or equipment, provided that the vehicle, trailer, or equipment is in good mechanical repair and is not left in one place for more than 72 hours without being moved.
E.
Signs erected by the City that direct vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic, which may display arrows, words, or other symbols to indicate directions of facilities.
F.
Address numerals and other similar information required to be maintained by law or governmental order, rule or regulation, provided that the size of the sign may not exceed the requirements of such law, order, rule or regulation.
G.
Signs contained within a walled, fenced, or secured property or area, that are not visible to the public or persons outside of the property.
H.
Signs which are located in or adjacent to building entrances or foyers for informational purposes only.
I.
Signs erected by governmental bodies that are less than thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
J.
Decorations, lights, pennants and similar devices on public property with the permission of the City.
K.
Seasonal lights and decorations customarily displayed during federally recognized holidays.
L.
Signs in plaza or public space structures located in the City's right-of-way, that are installed and maintained by the City or a contractor authorized by the City.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.5 General Requirements.
A.
Installation.
1.
Signs and sign structures shall comply with the City's Building Code and all other regulatory requirements. An applicant shall obtain all applicable plans and permits before installing a sign.
2.
For wall signs, the sign installation area on the building wall shall be cleaned, patched, and painted upon sign removal.
B.
Maintenance.
1.
All signs, together with any supports, braces, guys and anchors, and colors, shall remain in good repair and be properly maintained.
2.
Any defective signs or damaged parts or components of a sign shall be replaced and keep the adjacent properties free of debris, weeds, trash, or other public nuisances.
3.
The Planning Director may enforce the standards as provided in this UDC.
C.
Vertical Clearance for Signs Projecting over Sidewalks, Walkways, and Driveways.
1.
The bottom edge of any projecting sign, attached awning/canopy sign, hanging sign, marquee sign, and any other sign that extends or projects over a sidewalk, walkway, or driveway shall be at least eight (8) feet from the back of the curb or highest point as shown in Figure 4.9.5-1: Sign Vertical Clearance unless specified elsewhere in this article.
Figure 4.9.5-1: Sign Vertical Clearance  |
2.
Projecting signs, attached awning/canopy signs, hanging signs, marquee signs, and any other sign that extends or projects over public sidewalks shall not extend into or occupy more than half (1/2) the width of the sidewalk or five (5) feet (whichever is less), as measured from the building wall.
D.
Right-of-Way and Sight Distances.
1.
Signs Prohibited in Right-of-Way and/or Utility Easement. No person shall place or install a sign within the right-of-way of any public street or any utility easement except as provided below.
2.
Signs in the Sight Visibility Triangle.
a.
No person shall place or install a sign in a location established as a sight visibility triangle.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.6 Computations and Interpretations.
A.
Sign Faces and Sign Application. Area of sign face means the entire area within a single continuous perimeter enclosing the total sign message or display area of a sign, excluding supports and excluding border and trim, whose total square footage does not exceed 50 percent of the sign face area; the area of stacked and side-by-side signs shall be computed as the total of sign panels making up such a sign; for multiple-faced signs (back-to-back, triangular, columnar, V-type, etc.) only one sign face shall be counted in computing the actual sign area.
Figure 4.9.6-1: Sign-Area of Irregularly Shaped Signs for measurement purposes  |
Figure 4.9.6-2: Sign Examples  |
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.7 Sign Features.
Signs may incorporate the following features established below; however, these features shall only be allowed as established in the tables in Section 4.9.8 through Section 4.9.12.
A.
Illumination.
1.
Generally.
a.
A sign that is "illuminated" means any sign that incorporates illumination on or in the sign, or that directs illumination toward or over all or part of the sign, or that is created by the projection of illuminations onto a surface (such as a building wall).
b.
Permanent signs may be illuminated by static and continuous internal, external, and halo illumination configurations as indicated in the tables in Section 4.9.8 through Section 4.9.12. for each sign type. Figure 4.9.7-1: Sign Illumination Examples shows the various illumination configurations (from top left to bottom right: halo illumination, external illumination, external illumination, internal illumination).
c.
Temporary signs shall not be illuminated.
Figure 4.9.7-1: Sign Illumination Examples  |
2.
Standards. The standards below apply to all signs that are illuminated.
a.
Signs that are illuminated shall not operate at brightness levels of more than 0.5 footcandles above ambient light conditions at the property line, as measured using a footcandle meter. Illumination levels shall be measured in footcandles with a meter sensor in a horizontal position at an approximate height of three (3) feet above grade.
b.
Illumination shall not include animation, moving video, or flashing, scrolling, intermittent, moving lights, rotating beams or flashing beacon lights.
c.
Signs that are illuminated shall not be illuminated by flashing, intermittent, or moving lights, or lights that consist of an image projected upon a stationary object.
d.
The illumination source for a sign or building shall be shielded from view from any point on the ground by either an opaque or translucent material.
e.
Illumination shall comply with all applicable provisions of the City's Electrical Code.
f.
Signs with illumination in or within one hundred (100) feet of a residential area shall be reduced to fifty percent (50%) of the maximum brightness level allowed by this section between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
B.
Electronic Message Centers.
1.
Generally.
a.
A sign that incorporates an electronic message center (EMC) means a sign that displays a digital copy, including any illuminated sign on which the illumination is not kept stationary or constant in intensity and color when the sign is in use, including any light emitting diode (LED) or digital panel, and which varies in color or intensity (Figure 4.9.7-2 shows examples of signs that incorporate EMCs).
b.
Permanent signs may incorporate EMCs as indicated in the tables in Section 4.9.8 through Section 4.9.12 for each sign type.
c.
Temporary signs shall not incorporate EMCs.
Figure 4.9.7-2: EMC Sign Examples  |
2.
Standards.
a.
Hold Time.
(i)
Each message on the sign must be displayed for at least fifteen (15) seconds duration.
(ii)
Message changes shall be completed instantaneously and shall be imperceptible.
b.
Electronic Copy.
(i)
Signs incorporating EMCs shall only contain static messages changed exclusively by dissolve or fade transitions, and shall not have movement or the appearance or optical illusion of movement during the static display period of any part of the sign.
(ii)
A static message shall not include any flashing or varying of light intensity, and the message shall not scroll.
(iii)
The change of message using dissolve or fade transition shall not exceed two (2) seconds of time between each message displayed on the sign.
c.
Brightness.
(i)
The intensity of the light source for an EMC shall not produce glare, the effect of which constitutes a traffic hazard or is otherwise detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare.
(ii)
An EMC shall not operate at brightness levels of more than 0.5 footcandles above ambient light conditions at the property line, as measured using a footcandle meter. Illumination levels shall be measured in footcandles with a meter sensor in a horizontal position at an approximate height of three (3) feet above grade.
(iii)
Prior to the issuance of a sign permit, the applicant shall provide written certification from the sign manufacturer that the light intensity has been factory pre-set not to exceed 0.5 footcandles above ambient light and that the intensity level is protected from end-user manipulation by password-protected software or other method as deemed appropriate by the Building Official.
d.
Light Sensing Device. Each digital sign must have a light-sensing device that shall adjust the brightness as ambient light conditions change.
e.
Technology.
(i)
The technology currently being deployed for EMCs is LED (light emitting diode), but there may be alternate, preferred, and superior technology available in the future.
(ii)
Any other technology that complies with the performance standards for EMCs, including the maximum brightness levels as stated in subsection 2.c above, is permitted.
f.
Automatic Shutoff. An EMC shall:
(i)
Have automatic dimmer software or solar sensors to control brightness for nighttime viewing and variations in daytime ambient light.
(ii)
Include systems and monitoring to either turn the display off, show "full black" on the display, or include a default mechanism that freezes the sign in one position if a malfunction occurs, and
(iii)
Be designed so that a catastrophic power surge shall cause the sign to go dark or to deploy the maximum brightness limitations, and
(iv)
Automatically adjust the intensity of its display according to natural ambient light conditions.
3.
Maintenance. The light modules on EMCs shall be repaired or replaced if they become broken, burned-out, or substantially dimmed.
C.
Channel Letters.
1.
Generally.
a.
Permanent signs may incorporate channel letters as indicated in the tables in Section 4.9.8 through Section 4.9.12. for each sign type (Figure 4.9.7-3: Channel Letter Examples shows examples of channel letters used as signs).
b.
Temporary signs shall not incorporate channel letters.
Figure 4.9.7-3: Channel Letter Examples  |
2.
Standards. The standards below apply to signs incorporating channel letters.
a.
Where allowed, channel letters are limited to the required sign face area maximums.
b.
Channel letters may be illuminated if illumination is allowed for the sign type in that sign district.
c.
Channel letters shall affix flush against the wall of the building to which it is attached.
d.
Channel letters shall not extend more than sixteen (16) inches from the surface of the wall to which it is attached.
e.
Channel letters shall not project above the roofline of the building to which it is attached.
D.
Changeable Copy.
1.
Generally. Permanent signs may incorporate changeable copy as indicated in the tables in Section 4.9.8 through Section 4.9.12. for each sign type (Figure 4.9.7-4: Changeable Copy Sign Examples shows examples of signs that incorporate changeable copies).
Figure 4.9.7-4: Changeable Copy Sign Examples  |
2.
Standards. Changeable copies may be illuminated if the dimensions and standards allow illumination for the sign type in the district.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.8 Detached Signs.
Detached signs are classified into one of the following sign types: monument signs, pole signs, or subdivision entry signs. Their associated regulations are established in this section. A lot may have one detached sign, but not multiple unless specified elsewhere in this section.
A.
Monument Signs.
Figure 4.9.8-1: Monument Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A permanent detached or freestanding sign with a low profile, a base, and a support structure with a solid appearance that is at least 50% of the width of the widest part of the sign's face.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.8-1 establishes the standards for Monument Signs.
Table 4.9.8-1: Monument Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Monument Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | X | X | √ | √ | X | √ |
Permit Required? | √ | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Number per Lot (max.) | 1 | — | — | 1 | 1 | — | 1 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Height (max.) | 10 ft | — | — | 20 ft | 15 ft | — | 20 ft |
Sign Area (max.) | 50 sf | — | — | 200 sf | 150 sf | — | 200 sf |
Setbacks | |||||||
From Front Property Line | 10 ft | — | — | 10 ft | 5 ft | — | 10 ft |
From Adjacent Property Line | 10 ft | — | — | 10 ft | 10 ft | — | 10 ft |
From Another Detached Sign | 50 ft | — | — | 100 ft | 50 ft | — | 100 ft |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Changeable Copy | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Internal Illumination | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
External Illumination | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Halo Illumination | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | signs must be outside of sight visibility triangle | ||||||
b.
Number.
(i)
This subsection generally allows one (1) double-sided monument sign for each lot fronting a street for the districts shown in Table 4.9.8-1 unless the lot fronts multiple streets, in which an additional monument sign is allowed for each street frontage.
(ii)
No monument sign is allowed on a lot without frontage on to a street.
c.
Multi-Tenant Allowances.
(i)
The maximum sign area for a monument sign on a lot with multiple tenants may be increased by twenty-five percent (25%).
(ii)
No monument sign on a lot with multiple tenants with an increased maximum sign area allowance shall be located within two hundred (200) feet of another monument sign.
(iii)
No monument sign on a lot with multiple tenants with an increased maximum sign area allowance shall be located within five hundred (500) feet of a residential use.
(iv)
A monument sign on a lot with multiple tenants shall be set back at least fifteen (15) feet from the front property line.
d.
Design and Installation.
(i)
No monument sign shall be located within a utility easement or a sight visibility triangle as provided in Section 4.2.9 unless exempt pursuant to Section 4.9.5.D.
(ii)
Any electrical service provided to a monument sign shall be underground.
(iii)
Monument signs shall be designed to withstand wind loads established by the Building Code.
(iv)
All monument signs shall be placed in concrete bases or footings.
(v)
Monument signs shall be landscaped around the base of the sign in an area equal to three feet for each square foot of sign and base area.
(vi)
An individual monument sign shall contain at a minimum a three-foot masonry base around all sides of the sign.
(vii)
A monument sign may incorporate a changeable copy or an electronic message center based on the standards of Section 4.9.7 and the allowances established in Table 4.9.8-1.
B.
Pole Signs.
Figure 4.9.8-2: Pole Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A permanent detached or freestanding sign in which the sign face is mounted on one (1) or more poles and the base of the sign face is situated more than 12 inches above the ground. This does not include billboards.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.8-2 establishes the standards for Pole Signs.
Table 4.9.8-2: Pole Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pole Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | X | X | √ | √ | X | √ |
Permit Required? | √ | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Number per Lot (max.) | 1 | — | — | 1 | 1 | — | 1 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Height (max.) | 35 ft | — | — | 35 ft | 35 ft | — | 35 ft |
Sign Area (max.) | 300 sf | — | — | 300 sf | 300 sf | — | 300 sf |
Setbacks | |||||||
From Front Property Line | 10 ft | — | — | 10 ft | 10 ft | — | 10 ft |
From Adjacent Property Line | 10 ft | — | — | 10 ft | 10 ft | — | 10 ft |
From Another Detached Sign | 100 ft | — | — | 100 ft | 100 ft | — | 100 ft |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Changeable Copy | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Internal Illumination | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
External Illumination | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Halo Illumination | X | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | if pole falls within the sigh visibility triangle then an eight (8) ft. clearance from ground to sign shall be required | ||||||
b.
Number.
(i)
This subsection allows one (1) double-sided pole sign for each lot fronting a street for the sign districts shown in Table 4.9.8-2 unless the lot fronts multiple streets, in which an additional pole sign is allowed for each street frontage.
(ii)
No pole sign is allowed on a lot without frontage on to a street.
c.
Location. Pole signs are only allowed if:
(i)
Located within a distance of one hundred (100) feet from the right-of-way line of the linear segment of that thoroughfare and situated so as to be viewed from that thoroughfare.
d.
Multi-Tenant Allowances.
(i)
The maximum sign area for a pole sign on a lot with multiple tenants may be increased by twenty-five percent (25%).
(ii)
No pole sign on a lot with multiple tenants with an increased maximum sign area allowance shall be located within two hundred (200) feet of another pole sign.
(iii)
No pole sign on a lot with multiple tenants with an increased maximum sign area allowance shall be located within five hundred (500) feet of a residential use.
(iv)
A pole sign on a lot with multiple tenants shall be set back at least fifteen (15) feet from the front property line.
(v)
One freestanding sign per premises; provided that an additional sign shall be permitted for each 150 feet of frontage for a premises, not to exceed three square feet in sign area for each linear foot of primary street frontage up to a maximum of 300 square feet. Such signs shall not exceed a height of 35 feet, except where such signs are within 600 feet of Expressway 83, they may have a maximum of 80 feet.
e.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A pole sign may be located within a sight visibility triangle but shall provide an eight (8) foot vertical clearance from the ground to the bottom of the sign's face as depicted in Figure 4.9.5-1: Sign Vertical Clearance.
(ii)
Any electrical service provided to a pole sign shall be underground.
(iii)
Pole signs shall be designed to withstand wind loads established by the Building Code.
(iv)
All pole signs shall be placed in concrete bases or footings.
(v)
All pole signs shall be landscaped around the base of the sign in an area equal to three square feet for each square foot of sign area.
(vi)
Pole signs shall not have attached any guys or braces.
(vii)
A pole sign may incorporate a changeable copy or an electronic message center based on the standards of Section 4.9.7 and the allowances established in Table 4.9.8-2.
C.
Subdivision Entry Signs.
Figure 4.9.8-3: Subdivision Entry Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A specific monument sign located at the entry of a platted subdivision from a local, collector, or arterial street.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.8-3 establishes the standards for Subdivision Entry Signs.
Table 4.9.8-3: Subdivision Entry Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Subdivision Entry Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | √ | √ | √ | X | X | X | X |
Permit Required? | √ | √ | √ | — | — | — | — |
Number per Entry (max.) | 1 | 1 | 1 | — | — | — | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Height (max.) | 6 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft | — | — | — | — |
Sign Area (max.) | 150 sf | 150 sf | 150 sf | — | — | — | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | — | — | — | — |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | — | — | — | — |
Internal Illumination | X | X | X | — | — | — | — |
External Illumination | √ | √ | √ | — | — | — | — |
Halo Illumination | √ | √ | √ | — | — | — | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Number and Location. Two (2) subdivision entry signs may be located at the intersection of a local, collector, or arterial street and an entry street or private driveway into a subdivision. The signs may not be located on any utility easement and shall be configured as follows:
(i)
Two (2) signs with one (1) sign face each located on opposite sides of the entry street or private driveway;
(ii)
One (1) sign with two (2) faces located within a landscaped area dividing two (2) one-way entry streets or private driveways; or
(iii)
One (1) sign located on one (1) side of the entry street or private driveway.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
Subdivision entry signs shall be constructed with stone, brick, concrete, metal, routed wood planks or beams, or similar durable, weatherproof materials.
(ii)
All subdivision entry signs shall be landscaped around the base of the sign in an area equal to three square feet for each square foot of sign area.
(iii)
When electrical service is provided to a subdivision entry sign, all electrical service shall be underground.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.9 Attached Signs.
Attached signs are classified into one of the following sign types: wall signs, attached awning/canopy signs, hanging signs, grounded canopy signs, marquee signs, projecting signs, roof signs, skyline signs, or window signs. Their associated regulations are established in this section. A building may have multiple attached signs, unless specified elsewhere in this section.
A.
Wall Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-1: Wall Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. An attached sign painted on or attached to the wall or surface of a building or display surface which is parallel to the supporting surface.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-1 establishes the standards for Wall Signs.
Table 4.9.9-1: Wall Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wall Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | NR | √ |
Permit Required? | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Number per Storefront (max.) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | 50 sf | 50 sf | 50 sf | U | U | U | U |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Internal Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
External Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Halo Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X= no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | U = unlimited | ||||||
b.
Wall Signs for Multi-Tenant Buildings with Separate Storefronts
(i)
Tenants in multi-tenant buildings with separate storefronts may each display wall signs on the storefront wall where the primary public entrance is located.
(ii)
Wall signs shall be placed directly over the primary public entrance of the storefront.
(iii)
The above requirements apply to multi-tenant buildings with multiple stories.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A wall sign shall affix flush against the wall of the building or as flush as possible while allowing the plane of the face of the sign to remain perpendicular to the ground.
(ii)
The wall sign's face shall not extend more than twelve (12) inches from the surface of the wall to which it is attached.
(iii)
A wall sign shall be located below the building's roof line.
B.
Attached Awning/Canopy Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-2: Attached Awning/Canopy Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A permanent sign painted, printed, attached, or otherwise applied to any facet of the covering or frame structure of an awning or attached structural canopy.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-2 establishes the standards for Attached Awning/Canopy Signs.
Table 4.9.9-2: Attached Awning/Canopy Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Attached Awning/Canopy Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Permit Required? | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Number per Storefront (max.) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | 25 sf | 25 sf | 25 sf | U | U | U | U |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Internal Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
External Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Halo Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X= no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "-" = the standard does not apply | U = unlimited | ||||||
b.
Instead of Wall Sign.
(i)
Attached awning/canopy signs may be displayed instead of a wall sign on any exterior wall on which a wall sign is allowed under this section.
c.
Attached Awning/Canopy Signs for Multi-Tenant Buildings with Separate Storefronts.
(i)
Tenants in multi-tenant buildings with separate storefronts may each display one (1) attached awning/canopy sign on the frontage where the primary public entrance is located.
(ii)
Attached awning/canopy signs shall be placed directly over the primary public entrance of the storefront.
d.
Design and Installation.
(i)
Attached awning/canopy signs may be printed, attached, or directly applied to the surface of the awning/canopy covering.
(ii)
An attached awning/canopy sign shall not extend from the surface of the awning/canopy to which it is affixed.
C.
Grounded Canopy Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-3: Grounded Canopy Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A permanent attached sign that is affixed to a grounded canopy.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-3 establishes the standards for Grounded Canopy Signs.
Table 4.9.9-3: Grounded Canopy Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grounded Canopy Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | x | x | √ | √ | x | √ |
Permit Required? | √ | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Number per Grounded Canopy (max.) | 2 | — | — | 4 | 4 | — | 4 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (cumulative max. per grounded canopy) | 50 sf | — | — | U | U | — | U |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Changeable Copy | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Internal Illumination | NR | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
External Illumination | X | — | — | X | X | — | X |
Halo Illumination | X | — | — | √ | √ | — | √ |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet "—" = the standard does not apply | U = unlimited | ||||||
b.
Number.
(i)
If a grounded canopy is allowed for the zoning district, one sign may be displayed on each frontage in which that grounded canopy is located.
(ii)
Grounded canopy signs are an additional allowance for signs provided by this Subsection.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A grounded canopy sign shall affix flush against the surface of the face of the grounded canopy or as flush as possible while still allowing the plane of the face of the sign to remain perpendicular to the ground.
(ii)
The face of a grounded canopy sign cannot extend above the top surface of the face of the grounded canopy to which it is attached.
D.
Hanging Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-4: Hanging Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A sign suspended from the underside of a canopy, awning, ceiling, marquee, roof overhang, a covered porch, or walkway.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-4 establishes the standards for Hanging Signs.
Table 4.9.9-4: Hanging Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hanging Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | X | X | X | √ | √ | √ | X |
Permit Required? | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
Number per Storefront (max.) | — | — | — | 1 | 1 | 1 | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | — | — | — | 16 sf | 16 sf | 16 sf | — |
Sign Projection (max.) | — | — | — | 3 ft | 4 ft | 4 ft | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Changeable Copy | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Internal Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
External Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
Halo Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A hanging sign shall affix to the surface of the wall so that the face of the sign remains perpendicular to the ground.
(ii)
No hanging sign shall project above a street.
E.
Marquee Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-5: Marquee Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A permanent attached sign affixed to a marquee.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-5 establishes the standards for Marquee Signs.
Table 4.9.9-5: Marquee Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Marquee Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | X | X | X | X | X | √ | x |
Permit Required? | — | — | — | — | — | √ | — |
Number per Building (max.) | — | — | — | — | — | 1 | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | — | — | — | — | — | 100 sf | — |
Sign Projection (max.) | — | — | — | — | — | 8 ft | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | — | — | — | — | — | X | — |
Changeable Copy | — | — | — | — | — | √ | — |
Internal Illumination | — | — | — | — | — | √ | — |
External Illumination | — | — | — | — | — | √ | — |
Halo Illumination | — | — | — | — | — | √ | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Number. One (1) marquee sign may be displayed in addition to other signs allowed in this Subsection.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A marquee sign shall be located above the primary public entrance of a building.
(ii)
No marquee sign shall project above a street.
F.
Projecting Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-6: Projecting Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A permanent attached sign type that is affixed to and projects 18 inches or more from the wall of a building and is generally perpendicular to the building facade. A projecting sign does not include signs located on an attached canopy/awning, marquee, or roof.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-6 establishes the standards for Projecting Signs.
Table 4.9.9-6: Projecting Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Projecting Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | X | X | X | X | √ | √ | X |
Permit Required? | — | — | — | — | √ | √ | — |
Number per Storefront (max.) | — | — | — | — | 1 | 1 | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | — | — | — | — | 30 sf | 30 sf | — |
Sign Projection (max.) | — | — | — | — | 4 ft | 4 ft | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | — | — | — | — | X | X | — |
Changeable Copy | — | — | — | — | X | X | — |
Internal Illumination | — | — | — | — | √ | √ | — |
External Illumination | — | — | — | — | √ | √ | — |
Halo Illumination | — | — | — | — | √ | √ | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A projecting sign shall affix to the surface of the wall so that the face of the sign remains perpendicular to the ground.
(ii)
No projecting sign shall project above a street.
G.
Skyline Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-7: Skyline Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A sign that is placed above the windows of the highest floor of a building that is at least multiple stories and taller than thirty-five (35) feet in height.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-7 establishes the standards for Skyline Signs.
Table 4.9.9-7: Skyline Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Skyline Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | X | X | X | √ | √ | √ | X |
Permit Required? | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
Number per Building (max.) | — | — | — | 4 | 4 | 2 | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (cumulative max. per building) | — | — | — | 400 sf | 400 sf | 200 sf | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Changeable Copy | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Internal Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
External Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
Halo Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A skyline sign shall affix flush against the wall of the building or as flush as possible while allowing the plane of the face of the sign to remain perpendicular to the ground.
(ii)
The skyline sign's face shall not extend more than two (2) feet from the surface of the wall to which it is attached.
(iii)
Skyline signs shall not project above the roofline of the building.
H.
Window Signs.
Figure 4.9.9-8: Window Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A sign posted, printed, placed, or affixed to a window or glass door. A window sign includes any sign that is located inside a building, that is three feet or less from a window or glass door, and that is clearly visible from outside the building.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.9-8 establishes the standards for Window Signs.
Table 4.9.9-8: Window Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Window Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Permit Required? | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Number per Window Facing Street (max.) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max. percentage of window area) | 15% | 15% | 15% | 25% | 50% | 50% | 25% |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Internal Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
External Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Halo Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Design and Installation.
(i)
Window signs shall be posted or affixed to the window.
(ii)
No window sign shall be drawn or painted onto the window.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.10 Incidental Signs.
Incidental signs are classified into one of the following sign types: general incidental signs, flags, speaker boards, or walk-up boards. Their associated regulations are established in this section. A building or lot may have multiple incidental signs as allowed in this section.
A.
General Incidental Signs.
Figure 4.9.10-1: General Incidental Sign Examples  |
1.
Definition. A small permanent sign other than a flag, speaker board, or walk-up board, that is freestanding or attached to a building that is in addition to the primary sign types for the property, such as detached signs and attached signs, and that has a height and scale that is clearly subordinate to the primary sign types allowed for the property. Examples of typical General Incidental Signs include house numbers, occupant directories, property or tenant identification names or numbers, wayfinding signs, and directional signs, and signs warning the public against trespassing or danger from animals.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.10-1 establishes the standards for General Incidental Signs.
Table 4.9.10-1: General Incidental Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
General Incidental Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District →
Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Permit Required? | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Height (max. per sign) | 6 ft | 4 ft | 4 ft | 6 ft | 6 ft | 4 ft | 6 ft |
Sign Area (cumulative max. per lot) | 50 sf | 50 sf | 50 sf | 100 sf | 75 sf | 50 sf | 100 sf |
Setbacks | |||||||
From Front Property Line | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 10 ft |
From Adjacent Property Lines | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft | 5 ft |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Internal Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
External Illumination | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Halo Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Number.
(i)
There is no maximum general incidental sign per lot allowance.
(ii)
The sum of the general incidental sign area on a lot shall not exceed those established in Table 4.9.10-1.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
An attached general incidental sign shall affix flush against the wall of the building in which it is located.
(ii)
A detached general incidental sign shall have an enclosed base and be securely and firmly embedded in the ground.
(iii)
Incidental signs constructed in conjunction with a detached sign shall be consistent with the building elements and materials of those established on the same lot and within the development.
B.
Speaker Boards.
Figure 4.9.10-2: Speaker Board Example  |
1.
Definition. A professionally constructed and installed sign made of a durable, weather-resistant product such as metal or high-density plastic and may include a two-way speaker system for ordering from a vehicle in a drive-thru lane provided the volume of the speaker does not exceed ambient noise conditions as measured at the property line.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.10-2 establishes the standards for Speaker Boards.
Table 4.9.10-2: Speaker Board Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Speaker Board Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | X | X | √ | √ | X | X |
Permit Required? | √ | — | — | √ | √ | — | — |
Number per Lot (max.) | 2 | — | — | 2 | 2 | — | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Height (max.) | 8 ft | — | — | 8 ft | 8 ft | — | — |
Sign Area (max.) | 75 sf | — | — | 75 sf | 75 sf | — | — |
Setbacks | |||||||
From Front Property Line | 40 ft | — | — | 40 ft | 40 ft | — | — |
From Adjacent Property Lines | 10 ft | — | — | 10 ft | 10 ft | — | — |
From a Residential District or Use | 100 ft | — | — | 100 ft | 100 ft | — | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | — | — | — | √ | √ | — | — |
Changeable Copy | — | — | — | √ | √ | — | — |
Internal Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | — | — |
External Illumination | — | — | — | √ | √ | — | — |
Halo Illumination | — | — | — | x | x | — | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A speaker board shall provide no more than 3 feet and no less than 18 inches of horizontal separation from the curb or edge of the driveway the speaker board faces.
(ii)
Speaker boards shall provide a minimum landscaped area of two square feet per one square foot of sign area abutting the sign base.
C.
Walk-Up Boards.
Figure 4.9.10-3: Walk-Up Board Example  |
1.
Definition. A sign mounted near the sidewalk entrance to a building or affixed to a building wall where the sign is visible to pedestrian traffic.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.10-3 establishes the standards for Walk-Up Boards.
Table 4.9.10-3: Walk-Up Board Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Walk-Up Board Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | X | X | X | X | √ | √ | X |
Permit Required? | — | — | — | — | X | X | — |
Number per Storefront (max.) | — | — | — | — | 1 | 1 | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | — | — | — | — | 12 sf | 12 sf | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | — | — | — | — | X | X | — |
Changeable Copy | — | — | — | — | √ | √ | — |
Internal Illumination | — | — | — | — | √ | √ | — |
External Illumination | — | — | — | — | √ | √ | — |
Halo Illumination | — | — | — | — | X | X | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Design and Installation. No walk-up board is allowed more than 3 feet from the public sidewalk adjacent to the side of the building to which it is affixed.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.11 Temporary Signs.
Temporary signs are classified into one of the following sign types: general temporary signs, sidewalk signs, attached banners, detached banners, feather signs, or balloon signs. Their associated regulations are established in this section. A building or lot may have multiple temporary signs as allowed in this section. A temporary sign shall not be used as a placeholder for permanent signs (detached and attached signs) unless specified elsewhere in this article.
A.
General Temporary Signs.
Figure 4.9.11-1: General Temporary Sign Example  |
1.
Definition. A sign constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wood, wallboard, metal, or other light materials, with or without frames, which is intended to be displayed for a limited period of time only. Examples of typical General Temporary Signs include public demonstrations, grand opening signs, contractor signs, real estate signs, garage sale signs, and signs that announce an event such as a carnival, circus, or similar event. The list of examples is not exhaustive and is provided to clarify the regulations and does not limit the content of General Temporary Signs.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.11-1 establishes the standards for General Temporary Signs.
Table 4.9.11-1: General Temporary Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
General Temporary Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Permit Required? | X | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Number per Lot (max.) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Height (max.) | 4 ft | 4 ft | 4 ft | 6 ft | 6 ft | 4 ft | 6 ft |
Sign Area (max.) | 35 sf | 35 sf | 35 sf | 50 sf | 35 sf | 35 sf | 50 sf |
Setbacks | |||||||
From All Property Lines | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft |
From Other Detached and Incidental Signs | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Internal Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
External Illumination | X | X | X | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Halo Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Duration. A general temporary sign may be displayed for:
(i)
Ninety (90) consecutive days over one calendar year; or
(ii)
Thirty (30) consecutive days three times during a calendar year, with each thirty (30) day period separated by at least fourteen (14) calendar days.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
A detached general temporary sign shall be securely and firmly embedded or anchored in or on the ground.
(ii)
A detached general temporary sign shall not use sandbags or other weighted objects to secure the sign to or in the ground.
(iii)
A general temporary sign shall not use an adhesive (tape, glue, etc.) to affix the sign to any surface.
B.
Sidewalk Signs.
Figure 4.9.11-2: Sidewalk Sign Example  |
1.
Definition. A temporary and portable sign that is ordinarily in the shape of an "A" or inverted "T" with back-to-back sign faces, an easel, or a similar configuration to be located on a sidewalk or walkway.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.11-2 establishes the standards for Sidewalk Signs.
Table 4.9.11-2: Sidewalk Sign Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sidewalk Sign Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | X | X | X | √ | √ | √ | X |
Permit Required? | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Number per Storefront (max.) | — | — | — | 1 | 1 | 1 | — |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | — | — | — | 12 sf | 12 sf | 12 sf | — |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Changeable Copy | — | — | — | √ | √ | √ | — |
Internal Illumination | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
External Illumination | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Halo Illumination | — | — | — | X | X | X | — |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Duration. All sidewalk signs shall only be displayed during a use's business hours.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
Sidewalk signs are not allowed in planter beds.
(ii)
Sidewalk signs are allowed only where a building is within a maximum setback, or where a front facade that includes an entryway open to the general public during normal business hours is within ten (10) feet of the edge of a public sidewalk.
(iii)
Sidewalk signs shall leave a 5 foot minimum, unobstructed sidewalk clearance or as otherwise required by the ADA and City fire lane requirements, whichever is greater.
(iv)
Sidewalk signs shall have no permanent attachments to the sidewalk.
(v)
Sidewalk signs shall be composed of wood, medium-density fiberboard, metal (iron or steel) frames, or other materials with equivalent weight and density. Sidewalk signs shall not be composed of plastic or similar materials.
(vi)
The sign face of a sidewalk sign may include a chalkboard or dry-erase board.
C.
Attached Banners.
Figure 4.9.11-3: Attached Banner Example  |
1.
Definition. A temporary sign made of fabric, cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or any other non-rigid material with no enclosing framework that is attached, mounted, tied, or otherwise placed on a building or pole attached to a building. This definition does not include flags, pennants, or streamers.
2.
Standards.
a.
Generally. Table 4.9.11-3 establishes the standards for Attached Banners.
Table 4.9.11-3: Attached Banner Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Attached Banner Standards | |||||||
Zoning District → Requirement ↓ | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | NR | NR | NR | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Permit Required? | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Number per Storefront (max.) | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Area (max.) | 35 sf | 35 sf | 35 sf | 50 sf | 35 sf | 35 sf | 50 sf |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Internal Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
External Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Halo Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
b.
Duration. All attached banners shall meet the requirements established in this section 4.9.11.
c.
Design and Installation.
(i)
Attached banners shall not be attached to any window, door, or other sign.
(ii)
Attached banners shall not use an adhesive (tape, glue, etc.) to affix the attached banner to any surface.
D.
Exempt Political Signs.
1.
Exempt political sign means a sign that contains primarily a political message, including a political issue or a political candidate sign, that is located on private real property with the consent of the real property owner, but not on real property subject to an easement or other encumbrance that allows the City of McAllen to use the property for a public purpose, and that
a.
Does not have an effective area greater than 36 square feet;
b.
Is not more than eight feet high;
c.
Is not illuminated; and
d.
Does not have any moving elements.
2.
All political advertising signs, as such term is defined in the Texas Election Code Ch. 259, must comply with all provisions of such code, as may be amended from time to time.
3.
No more than two political advertising signs per candidate or proposition may be placed in the areas designated for placement of such signs near polling place entrances, such signs may only be placed during the voting period for the election, and each sign may not exceed nine (9) square feet in size.
Table 4.9.11-4: Exempt Political Signs Standards | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zoning Districts | |||||||
Requirements | A-O | R-1 R-2 | R-3 | C-1 C-2 | M-1 M-2 | C-C | I-1 I-2 |
General | |||||||
Allowed? | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ | √ |
Permit Required? | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Dimensions | |||||||
Sign Height (max.) | 8 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft | 8 ft |
Sign Area (max.) | 75 sf | 50 sf | 50 sf | 75 sf | 50 sf | 50 sf | 75 sf |
Setbacks | |||||||
From Other Detached and Incidental Signs | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft | 10 ft |
Features | |||||||
Electronic Message Center | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Changeable Copy | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Internal Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
External Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Halo Illumination | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Additional Information | |||||||
Key | √ = yes, a permit is required or the feature is allowed | X = no/not allowed | NR = the sign type or characteristic is allowed for nonresidential uses only | sf = square feet | ft = feet | "—" = the standard does not apply | ||||||
a.
Duration. As stated in Texas Election Code Ch. 259 as shall be amended from time to time..
b.
Design and Installation. All signs and associated materials must be removed promptly after election concludes but not more than ten (10) days after.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.9.12 Billboards.
A.
Definition. Billboard is a structure erected to display an off-premises message (i.e., an off-premises sign).
B.
Standards.
1.
New Billboards. New billboards are only permitted along U.S. Expressway 83/Interstate 2 and must comply with TxDOT requirements (see Texas Transportation Code) and must comply with spacing requirement for pole signs as addressed in Section 4.9.8B.
2.
Existing Nonconforming Billboards. Where a lawful billboard exists at the effective date of adoption of the ordinance from which this chapter was derived, it may be continued subject to the following provisions:
a.
No such nonconforming billboard may be enlarged or altered in a way which increases its nonconformity, but any structure or portion thereof may be altered to decrease its nonconformity.
b.
Should such nonconforming billboard be blown down or otherwise destroyed or dismantled for any purpose other than maintenance operations to an extent of more than 60 percent of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at the time of destruction and at the same location, it shall not be reconstructed except in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.
c.
Should such sign be moved for any reason for any distance whatsoever, it shall thereafter conform to the regulations of the district in which it is located after it is moved. All relocations will require a permit and a relocation agreement approved by the City.
d.
The replacement of face, where the original frame is used and the frame size is not altered and the substructure is not altered or moved is permitted for legal nonconforming billboards.
e.
Nonconforming billboards shall be properly maintained so that such signs do not constitute a danger to the public health and welfare.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.10.1 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to accommodate and encourage compatible development in existing developed areas, while reinforcing the established character of those areas and mitigating adverse impacts on adjacent properties.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.10.2 Applicability.
This article applies to all development and redevelopment within McAllen's corporate limits unless otherwise specified.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.10.3 Standards.
A.
Generally.
1.
Infill development shall share a similar height to surrounding buildings.
2.
The infill development shall reflect the architectural styles on either side along the block face.
3.
The relationship between height, width, material, and style of existing facades shall be respected.
4.
The infill development shall have consistent setbacks with the buildings on its block face.
B.
Setbacks.
1.
The front setback for infill development shall be determined by assessing the as-built setbacks on the block face (see Figure 4.10.3-1: Infill Development Setback Range).
2.
The infill development may be placed anywhere between the smallest and largest front setbacks on the block face (see Figure 4.10.3-1: Infill Development Setback Range).
3.
All other setbacks shall meet the zoning district's dimensional standards unless specified otherwise.
Figure 4.10.3-1: Infill Development Setback Range  |
C.
Form Requirements.
1.
Buildings shall either be similar in size or, if larger, be articulated and subdivided into massing that is proportional to the mass and scale of other structures, if any, on the same block face, abutting or adjacent to the subject property, opposing block face or cater-corner block face at the nearest intersection.
2.
Color shades shall be used to facilitate blending the infill development into the block face. The color shades of building materials shall draw from the range of color shades that already exist on the block or in the adjacent neighborhood. If no specified range can be determined, then the infill development shall utilize earth tones.
3.
The use of high-intensity colors, metallic colors, or fluorescent colors is prohibited.
4.
Building materials and windows shall not create excessive glare nor create a significant adverse impact on the adjacent property owners, neighborhood or community in terms of vehicular and pedestrian safety and enjoyment of views.
D.
Building Height.
1.
The building height for infill development shall be determined by assessing the as-built building heights on the block face (see Figure 4.10.3-2).
2.
The building height for infill development may be placed anywhere between the shortest and tallest building height on the block face (see Figure 4.10.3-2).
Figure 4.10.3-2: Building Height for Infill Development  |
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.10.4 Minor Modifications.
A.
If any rear, side, or corner side yard setbacks cannot be met due to site constraints, then a twenty-five percent (25%) setback reduction may be granted by a minor modification approved by the Planning Director. Setback reduction may not violate any existing easements.
B.
The Planning Director shall find that the minor modification:
1.
Is appropriate and necessary for the development,
2.
Does not adversely affect surrounding properties, and
3.
Is consistent with the purpose of this article.
C.
Any reduction greater than twenty-five percent (25%) of the zoning district's required dimensional standards requires a variance.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.11.1 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to establish regulations that protect the public from the potential negative effects of certain development by regulating the transmission of noise, vibration, odor, and harmful substances and emissions.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.11.2 Applicability.
A.
The following regulations related to performance standards shall apply in addition to any other regulations and ordinances adopted by the City.
B.
This article applies to all properties in the City unless otherwise specified.
C.
If this section conflicts with any other division of this UDC or the Code of Ordinances of the City of McAllen, the most restrictive standard shall govern.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.11.3 Noise.
A.
It shall be unlawful for any person to willfully make, cause to be made, or continue any unreasonable noise within the City.
B.
Any unreasonable noise that is plainly audible as indicated below shall be considered prima-facie evidence of a violation of this section.
1.
At the property line of a property;
2.
Within thirty-five (35) feet of the noise source when the noise source is within a vehicle or on the public right-of-way; or
3.
Through the common wall in a building.
C.
Exemptions.
1.
Activities directly connected with the abatement of an emergency, including construction activities and authorized emergency vehicles when such vehicles are responding to an emergency call or when in pursuit of an actual or a suspended violator of the law or when responding to, but not returning from a fire;
2.
Bells and chimes, or any device for the production or reproduction of the sound of bells or chimes from any religious land use, school, or clock, operated between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.; or
3.
Firework displays, which otherwise comply with the McAllen Code.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
§ 4.11.4 Water and Waste Pollution.
A.
In accordance with Chapter 120 of the Code of Ordinances, no operation or activity shall discharge or cause to be discharged, liquid or solid waste into public waters unless in conformance with the provisions of the Texas Water Quality Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
B.
In accordance with Chapter 120 of the Code of Ordinances, no discharge at any point shall be allowed into any public sewer, private sewer disposal system, or stream or into the ground, except in accordance with standards approved by the state health department or standards equivalent to those approved by such department, for similar uses, of any materials of such nature or temperature as can contaminate any water supply, interfere with bacterial processes in sewage treatment or otherwise cause the emission of dangerous or offensive elements. All discharge shall comply with all applicable City ordinances.
(Ordinance 2026-16 adopted 2/9/2026)
