The Purpose of the sign regulations set forth in this chapter is intended to:

1. Eliminate potential hazards to motorists and pedestrians by requiring that signs are designed, constructed, installed and maintained in a manner that promotes the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the city of Milford;
2. Encourage signs which, by their design, are integrated with and harmonious to the buildings and sites, including landscaping, which they occupy;
3. Encourage sign legibility through the elimination of excessive and confusing sign displays;
4. Preserve the appearance of the city as a place in which to live and to work, and create an attraction to nonresidents to come to visit or trade;
5. Allow each individual business to clearly identify itself and the nature of its business in such a manner as to become the hallmark of the business which will create a distinctive appearance and also enhance the city character;
6. Safeguard and enhance property values, and protect public and private investment in buildings and open space.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

The following words and phrases whenever used in this chapter shall be construed as defined in this section: A-Frame Sign. A sign made of wood, cardboard, plastic, or other lightweight and rigid material having the capability to stand on its own support(s) and being portable and movable. See Figure 1 (A-Frame Sign)

FIGURE 1: A-FRAME SIGN

Attached Sign. A sign placed on a wall including awning, canopy, bracket, painted, under-canopy or a window. Also, see Wall Sign, Canopy Sign, Bracket Sign, Painted Sign, Canopy or Window Sign. Awning. A roof-life cover that projects from the wall of a building for the purpose of shielding a doorway or window from the elements. Banner. A flexible sign characteristically supported by two (2) or more points. It is generally made of fabric or other nonrigid materials with no enclosing frame. Bracket Sign. A small, pedestrian-oriented sign that projects perpendicular from a structure. See Figure 2 (Bracket Sign)

FIGURE 2: BRACKET SIGN

Billboard. A freestanding ground sign located on real property that is designed and intended to direct attention to a business, product, service or message that is not sold, offered or existing on the property, nor specific to the property where the property sign is located. Building Sign. A sign placed on a wall, awning, canopy, or parapet, or a projecting sign. Canopy Sign. Any sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy, or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover over a door, entrance, window, or outdoor service area. Can Sign. A sign which contains all the text and/or logo symbols within a single enclosed cabinet that is mounted to a wall or other surface. See Figure 3 (Can Sign)

FIGURE 3: CAN SIGN
Changeable Copy Sign. A sign or portion thereof with characters, letters, or illustrations that can be changed or rearranged manually without altering the face or surface of the sign. See Figure 4 (Changeable Copy Sign)

FIGURE 4: CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN

Channel Letter Sign. A sign comprising individual letters that are independently mounted to a wall or other surface and internally illuminated with a covered face. The "air space" between the letters is not part of the sign structure but rather of the building facade. A logo may also be considered a channel letter provided it is clearly distinguishable from other sign elements. See Figure 5 (Channel Letter Sign)

FIGURE 5: CHANNEL LETTER SIGN

Construction Sign. A temporary sign directly connected with a construction project; may include the construction company's name address, and/or telephone number. Directional Sign. Any sign intended to be permanently affixed and utilized only for the purpose of indicating the direction of any object, place or area. Disrepair. A sign shall be considered in disrepair when it fails to be in the same form as originally constructed, or when it fails to perform its intended function of conveying a message. Conditions shall include, but not be limited to:

1. Structural pole or support failure.
2. Signs not being held vertically or as originally constructed.
3. Borders falling off or already removed.
4. Panels missing or falling off.
5. Message falling off or in disrepair such that it cannot be interpreted by the motoring public.
6. Signs that are overgrown by trees or other vegetation.

Electronic Message Sign. An electronic sign, such as gas station prices, school events, etc typically with a digital illuminated display that contain one or more messages. This sign may also be known as a Marquee. See Figure 6 (Electronic Message Sign)

FIGURE 6: ELECTRONIC MESSAGE SIGN

Exempt Sign. A sign that is not subject to a Sign Permit Freestanding Sign. A permanent sign that is self-supporting in a fixed location and not attached to a building. Freestanding signs are also classified as a Pole Sign. Illuminated Sign. A sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign; includes signs made from neon or other gas tube(s) that are bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes. An illuminated sign excludes electronic message signs, which are separately defined. Inflated Sign. A sign consisting of balloons and inflatables made of metallic and/or cloth material, regardless of the size that is used, for the purpose of attracting attention. Monument Sign. A freestanding sign that is detached from a building and having a support structure that is a solid-appearing base constructed of a permanent material, such as concrete block or brick. See Figure 7 (Monument Sign)

FIGURE 7: MONUMENT SIGN

Off-Site of Off-Premises Sign. A sign that directs attention to a business, profession, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered at a location other than where the sign is located. On-Site or On-Premises Sign. A sign that directs attention to a business, profession, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered upon the lot or parcel on which the sign is placed. In the case of multiple-tenant commercial or industrial development, a sign is considered on-site whenever it is located anywhere within the development. Permanent Sign. A sign that is entirely constructed out of durable materials, is fixed in place, and is intended to exist for more than 180 days. Pole Sign. A freestanding sign in excess of six feet in height that is detached from a building and is supported by one or more structural elements. See Figure 8 (Pole Sign)

FIGURE 8: POLE SIGN

Political Sign. A sign erected prior to an election to advertise or identify a candidate, campaign issue, election proposition, or other related matters. Pushpin Letter Sign. A sign compromising individual letters that are independently mounted to a wall or other surface. Such sign may be illuminated by an external light source, such as pendant lighting. See Figure 9 (Pushpin Letter Sign)

FIGURE 9: PUSHPIN LETTER SIGN

Real Estate Sign. A temporary sign advertising the sale or lease of real property. The sign may include the identification and contact information of the person and/or company handling such sale, lease, or rent. Roof Sign. A sign erected, constructed, painted, or placed upon or over a roof a parapet wall of a building which is wholly or partly supported by the building or roof structure. Sight Triangle. A triangular area formed on any corner lot by the property lines that abut the street, and a line connecting them at points of twenty (20) feet from the intersection. See Figure 10 (Sight Triangle)

FIGURE 10: SIGHT TRIANGLE

Sign. Any device, structure, fixture, phrases, designs, pictures, trade names, or trademarks for the primary purpose of communicating with the public. For the purpose of this chapter, the word "sign" does not include the flag, pennant or insignia of any nation, state, city or other political unit, or of a nonprofit organization. It shall not include, further, any official notice issued by any court, public body or officer, or direction, warning or informational sign or structure required or authorized by law. Sign Area. The area or portion of a sign on which copy is intended to be placed. Subdivision Directional Sign. A temporary or otherwise limited-term sign for the purpose of providing direction for vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic to the new home sale of multiple lots of dwelling units with a single builder within a master planned community, including both single-family and multifamily for sale products. All other home sales are included in the definition of real estate sign. Temporary Sign. A structure or device used for the public display of visual messages or images, which is easily installed with or without common hand tools and which is not intended or suitable for long-term or permanent display (e.g., less than 180 days). Examples include, but are not limited to, A-frame signs, banners, pennants, streamers, or similar non-permanent signs made of paper, cloth, canvas, lightweight fabric, or other non-rigid material, with or without frames. Wall Sign. A sign attached, painted upon, or erected against the wall of a building or structure with the exposed face of the sign parallel to the plane of such wall. Window Sign. Any sign, picture, letter, character, or combination thereof, designed to communicate information about an activity, business, commodity, event, sale, or service that is placed upon and/or inside and/or within 3 feet of a window for the purpose of being visible from the exterior of the window. (Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

1. Construction of Signs: Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be manufactured, assembled, and erected in compliance with all applicable State, Federal and City laws and regulations. All signs shall comply with the following criteria:
   1. All permanent signs shall be constructed of quality, low-maintenance materials such as metal, concrete, natural stone, glass, and acrylic. Techniques shall be incorporated during construction to reduce fading and damage caused by exposure to sunlight or degradation due to other elements.
   2. All freestanding signs that incorporate lighting shall have underground utility service.
   3. All temporary signs, portable signs, and banners shall be made of material designed to maintain an attractive appearance for as long as the sign is displayed.
2. Maintenance of Signs: Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be maintained and kept in proper repair. The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted, and free from rust and corrosion. Any sign that is cracked, broken surfaces, malfunctioning lights, missing sign copy or other non-maintained or damaged portions of a sign shall be repaired or replaced within thirty (30) days following notification by the City.
3. Sign Removal or Replacement: When a sign is removed or replaced, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that support the sign shall also be removed.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

1. Building Permit Required: A building permit shall be required for all permanent signs (building attached or freestanding) not specifically exempted by this Chapter, prior to erection, relocation, alteration, or replacement of sign. A building permit for a sign shall be reviewed in the same manner as any other building permit. All permits shall include the following:
   1. Color drawing, picture, or rendering with dimensions of the proposed sign.
   2. A site plan of the location showing the placement of the sign in relation to the building and any driveways, including the setback measurements.
   3. All signs involving footings or foundations and/or electrical wiring or connections, or as required by Milford City, shall be accompanied by a drawing stamped by an appropriate engineer, licensed by the State of Utah, attesting to adequacy of the proposed construction of the sign and its supports.
   4. All other applicable information requested on the sign permit application.
2. Approval Process: Milford City Zoning Administrator and Building Official will review the application to determine all requirements are met. Permit shall be issued by the Zoning Administrator if the proposed sign is found to be in compliance with the provisions of this code.
3. Fee: Fee for the sign permit shall be determined by the Building Official if applicable. An admin fee shall also be collected on Milford City's behalf. This fee is determined by resolution.
4. Inspections: Milford City may make an initial inspection or re-inspection of any sign for which a permit has been issued and/or for which an inspection has been deemed necessary. Such inspections shall be performed to determine that all signs, constructions, and modifications of existing signs are built or constructed in conformance with this ordinance and as presented at application for permit. All permanent signs containing electrical components, footings or foundations, or as otherwise required by the City, shall receive final inspections to certify it meets all applicable building and safety code.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

The following sign types are expressly exempt from the permit requirements of this Chapter but still must satisfy any and all other applicable Milford City permit requirements when necessary.

1. Exempt Signs without Limitations: The following signs are exempt from Sign Permit and City review requirements.
   1. Official traffic signs or other municipal governmental signs, legal notices, advertisements prescribed by law and placed by governmental entities, and signs indicating the location of buried utility lines.
   2. Direction, warning, or informational signs or structures required or authorized by law, or by State, City, or County authorities.
   3. Utility company signs identifying cables, conduits, danger, and so forth.
2. Exempt Signs with Limitations: The following signs are exempt from Sign Permits and do not require city review. However, they shall be consistent with size, height, duration and/or maximum number limitations listed.
   1. A-Frame Signs. Each commercial business location shall be permitted one A-frame sign per street frontage. The sign shall not exceed fur feed in height or a width of 3 feet. A-frame signs shall not obscure or visually impair vehicular traffic. Sight Triangle requirements must be met if applicable. (see definition of sight triangle)
   2. Banner Signs must be mounted or displayed on the face of the building or affixed to supporting poles. Location of banner sign must be such that safe sight distances are maintained for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Banner signs must be removed after 180 days. In the event the banner becomes tattered or worn it must be removed immediately.
   3. Window Signs. Such signs shall be encouraged to promote business identification, hours of operation.
   4. Construction signs not to exceed one sign per street frontage. Construction signs may not be illuminated. Such signs shall only be permitted during the period of actual construction after the building permit has been issued.
   5. Garage, yard, and other home based sale signs advertising a one-day sale. Signs must be removed 24 hours after sale.
   6. Advertising signs. Cannot exceed 15" x 15" and must be removed after 30 days.
   7. Real estate signs are allowed on private property. Sign triangle requirements must be met if applicable. (see definition of sight triangle) Signs must be removed no later than 15 days after the close of the sale.
   8. Political and fundraising signs. All signs shall be removed within seven (7) days following an election/event.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

The following signs are considered a temporary sign and require a sign permit from Milford City. Temporary signs shall not be illuminated.

1. Inflatable Signs: May be used for special events, sales, or similar occasions for a time period not to exceed seven (7) days. Signs must be secured to the ground and/or building to prevent injury.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

All signs and outdoor advertising structures shall comply with the following location requirements:

1. All signs shall be set back at least three (3) feet behind the sidewalk or seven (7) behind the curb if there is no sidewalk. No sign in excess of three (3) feet in height shall be placed within the site triangle on any corner lot.
2. Not Obstruct or Interfere: No sign shall be erected in such a manner that any portion of the sign or its support will interfere with the use of any fire escape, exit or standpipe, or obstruct any required stairway, door, ventilator or window.
3. Sight Triangle: No sign exceeding three (3) feet shall be erected at any intersection within a triangular area formed by the property lines that but the street, and a line connecting them at points of twenty (20) feet from the intersection of the property lines.
4. Utility Clearance: No sign shall be erected or maintained which has less horizontal or vertical clearance from communication lines and energized electrical power lines that prescribed by the laws of the state or rules and regulations duly promulgated by agencies thereof or by electrical utility providers. No signs shall be erected or maintained on any utility pole except by the utility company itself.
5. Clearance; Public, Private Ways: No sign shall be erected in such a manner that any portion of the sign or its support will extend over a public or private walkway with a minimum clearance of less than ten (10) feet.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

One sign per parcel shall be permitted unless otherwise noted.

1. Bracket Signs and Under Canopy signs;
   1. There must be a minimum clearance under sign of ten (10) feet.
   2. Signs may project a maximum of four (4) feet from the building.
   3. Sign supports and brackets shall be compatible with the design of the sign.
2. Wall Signs:
   1. Shall be placed as to utilize existing architectural features of a building without obscuring them. Wall signs shall be oriented toward pedestrians or vehicles within close proximity to the sign.
   2. The area of wall sign shall be no greater than fifteen (15%) percent of the total square footage of the wall where it is located. Marquee, canopy, and roof signs shall be considered part of the fifteen percent (15%) are limit.
   3. No part of any such sign shall extend above the building.
3. Freestanding Signs:
   1. There may be one such sign for each one-hundred feet (100') of frontage of the property, plus one additional sign for each additional one hundred foot (100') frontage.
   2. Such signs shall not exceed thirty-five feet (35') in height.
4. Monument Signs:
   1. There may be one such sign for each one hundred feet (100') of frontage of the property.
   2. Sign face shall not exceed 35 sq. ft.
5. Changeable Copy Signs:
   1. Such signs shall be considered to be the same as any other type of sign and shall be regulated based on their location; i.e., if located on wall they shall be deemed wall signs.
   2. The maximum allowed size for a changeable copy sign shall be 35 sq. ft. per display face.
6. Electronic Message Signs:
   1. Such sign shall not exceed thirty-five feet (35') in height.
   2. Sign face shall not exceed 35 sq. ft.
7. Illumination:
   1. The illumination of signs shall be designed to minimize negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. Light sources shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination of an object rather than a sign.
   2. The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will create glare or other negative impacts on residential property.
8. Pushpin Letter Sign:
   1. Letters shall not exceed a height of two feet (2') and shall be considered part of the 15% area limit.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

Every sign erected or proposed to be erected within the city shall be classified in accordance with the definitions of signs contained in this chapter. Any sign which does not clearly fall within one of the classifications shall be placed in the classification which the sign, in view of its design, location and purpose, most clearly approximates by the zoning administrator.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

1. On Premises Signs: All on premises or appurtenant signs which have been made nonconforming by the adoption of provisions contained within this chapter shall be subject to the following regulations.
   1. Unsafe Signs: Any sign or portion thereof declared unsafe by a proper public authority must be restored to a safe condition or removed within thirty (30) days of mailing or otherwise given notice of the unsafe condition.
   2. Alterations: A nonconforming sign shall not be reconstructed, raised, moved, placed, extended or enlarged or other alteration made unless said sign is changed so as to conform to all provisions of this chapter. "Alterations" shall also mean that changing of the text or message on the sign from one use of the premises to another use of the premises and the changing of the ownership of the sign when that ownership necessitates a change in the text or message of the sign. "Alterations" shall not be interpreted to include changing the text or copy on off premises advertising signs, theater signs, outdoor bulletins or other similar signs which are designed to accommodate changeable copy.
   3. Restoration: Nonconforming signs which have been allowed to deteriorate or which have been damaged by fire, explosion, act of God, act of public enemy, or damaged by any other cause, to the extent of more than sixty percent (60%) of its assessed value shall, if repaired or rebuilt, be repaired or rebuilt in conformity with the regulations of this chapter or shall be removed.
2. Off Premises Signs: All off premises signs which are made nonconforming uses by the provisions of this chapter shall be subject to the provisions of 10-9a-511, 512, and 513 of the Utah code or subsequent amendments.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Amended, 03/22/2017)

1. The erection, construction, operation or maintenance of any sign contrary to any provisions of this code is declared to be a Class C Misdemeanor and may be cited as such.
2. Any sign violating the provisions of this ordinance shall constitute a public nuisance and shall be subject to abatement pursuant to the provisions of this section. Milford City shall immediately, upon determination of any such violation, institute injunction, abatement, or removal of such violation.
3. Signs on private property. After a period of no less than thirty (30) days after notice has been given to remove the sign or remedy the violation, Milford City may direct the sign to be removed or remove the sign. Violators shall be cited with a Class C Misdemeanor.
4. Milford City may direct any sign which is an immediate danger to persons or property to be removed summarily and without prior notice. If a sign is summarily removed by the city without prior notice, the city may charge the appropriate parties for the cost of removal and shall give notice of the removal in writing to the appropriate parties as soon as possible after the removal.

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Add, 03/22/2017)

Zone Types:

MSC- Main Street Commercial HC- Highway Commercial IP-Industrial Park M- Manufacturing Residential

(Ord. Ordinance 04-2017 Signs, Add, 03/22/2017)