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Morganton City Zoning Code

ARTICLE 5

SIGN STANDARDS

5.1 Purpose and Applicability

  • The purpose of this Article is to support and complement the various land uses allowed in the City of Morganton jurisdiction by the adoption of standards concerning the placement of signs. The outdoor placement of signs is a legitimate use of private property but shall be controlled and regulated in order to promote the health, safety, welfare, convenience and enjoyment of travel on roadways, as well as protect the public investment in such roadways. The provisions of this Article are also intended to promote the reasonable, orderly and effective display of such signs, displays and devices. It is also the intent of this section to prevent signs from dominating the visual appearance of the area in which they are located and to enhance the aesthetic environment of Morganton.
  • Except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance, it shall be unlawful for any person to construct, place, enlarge, move, or replace any sign, without first having obtained a zoning permit for such sign from the Development and Design Services Department as required by this Ordinance. A fee, in accordance with a fee schedule adopted by the City Council, shall be charged for each permit issued. The procedures for obtaining a Zoning Permit for a sign are located in Section 2.2 of this Ordinance.
  • Existing nonconforming signs shall meet the requirements of Section 6.6 of this Ordinance.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3 Signs that Do Not Require a Permit

    The following types of signs are exempt from permit requirements and may be placed in any zoning district. Such signs shall otherwise be in conformance with all applicable requirements contained in this Ordinance. All such signs (except government signs) shall be located outside of the street right-of-way and shall not be illuminated.

    5.4 Signs that Require a Permit

    All of the signs enumerated in this section require a Zoning Permit prior to construction or alteration of a sign. See Section 2.2 for Zoning Permit procedures.

    5.5 Prohibited Signs

    The following signs are prohibited:

    5.2.1 Sign Design Guidelines

  • Materials, colors and shapes of proposed signs shall be compatible with the buildings and principal uses located on the same property and adjacent properties.
  • The sign shall not be the dominant feature of its location.
  • A uniform sign plan shall be required for all office and retail complexes and multi-tenant buildings. All tenants shall comply with the approved uniform sign plan.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.2.2 Sign Area

  • The surface area of a sign is computed as including the entire area within a parallelogram, triangle, circle, semi-circle or other regular geometric figure, including all of the elements of the display, but not including blank masking (a plain strip, bearing no advertising matter around the edge of a sign), frames, display of identification or licensing officially required by any governmental body, or structural elements outside the sign surface and bearing no advertising matter. The surface area of the sign structure shall not exceed two (2) times the surface area of the sign face.
  • In the case of signs mounted back-to-back, only one (1) side of the sign shall be included in the area. Otherwise, the surface area of each sign is to be separately computed.
  • In the case of multi-sided signs, cylindrical signs, signs in the shape of cubes, or other signs which are substantially three-dimensional (3-D) with respect to their display surfaces, the area is equal to the sum of the areas of any two (2) adjacent sides.
  • In the case of embellishments (display portions of signs extending outside the general display area), surface area extending outside the general display area and bearing advertising material is to be computed separately (according to the method described immediately above in this Section) as part of the total surface area of the sign.
  • If a sign is attached to an entrance wall, only that portion of that wall onto which the sign face or letters are placed shall be calculated in the sign area.
    • FIGURE 5.1: SIGN AREA

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.2.3 Sign Height

  • The height of a sign shall be measured from the highest point of a sign to the ground surface beneath it.
  • For sign locations located below the grade of the adjacent street to which it has access, the height of a sign shall be measured from the highest point of the sign to the elevation of the fronting accessible street adjacent to the sign.
  • Ornamentation such as caps, spires and finials shall not extend more than two (2) feet from the top of the sign.
    • FIGURE 5.2: SIGN HEIGHT

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.2.4 Sign Setbacks

  • Every part of all signs shall be located outside of the right-of-way. The location of the right-of-way shall be determined by the Burke County tax map. The following signs are exempt except that the following:
    1. Wall signs within the CBD zoning district that meet the requirements set forth in Section 5.4.2 may project into the right-of-way
    2. Development entryway signs that meet the requirements of Section 5.4.1 shall be located in the islands within City-maintained street right-of-way upon the acceptance of an encroachment agreement by the City.
  • At intersections, no sign shall be in the sight triangle as defined by this Ordinance.
  • No freestanding sign shall be located within 50 feet of any other freestanding sign unless the Development and Design Services Department determines that practical difficulties exist for locating the sign.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.2.5 Sign Illumination

  • All illuminated signs shall have their lighting directed in such a manner as to illuminate only the face of the sign.
  • External light sources shall not be visible from the right-of-way nor cause glare hazards to pedestrians, motorists, or adjacent properties.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.2.6 Maintenance and Upkeep of Signs

  • Every sign and its support, braces, guys, anchors and electrical equipment shall be maintained in safe condition at all times. All signs shall be kept in a state of good repair and aesthetic condition, free from defective, rusting, or missing parts (i.e. broken sign facing, broken supports, loose appendages or struts, disfigured, cracked, ripped or peeling paint or poster paper) or missing letters or numbers and shall be able to withstand the wind pressure as prescribed in the North Carolina Building Code. Illuminated signs shall not be allowed to operate with only partial illumination.
  • Signs that are structurally unsafe and thereby endanger the public safety shall be removed unless they are repaired and made to comply with the requirements of the Building Code, as amended. If the Development and Design Services Department shall find that any sign is dangerous or is menace to the public, he shall give written notice of such violations to the owner of the sign, or by leaving said notice with the manager or other person who is apparently in charge of the premises or by affixing a copy of the notice to the sign, sign structure or building for a period of five (5) days. The notice shall set forth the nature of the violation and order the violator to repair the sign in such a manner to be approved by the Development and Design Services Department in conformance with the provisions of this Chapter or remove the sign forthwith in the case of imminent instability or immediate danger of falling, and in any case within 10 days of receipt. If within 10 days the notice is not complied with, the Development and Design Services Department shall have the authority to remove the sign at the recipient's expense and to destroy or otherwise dispose of same. In cases of emergency, the Development and Design Services Department may cause the immediate removal of a dangerous or unsafe sign without notice.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.2.7 Removal of Discontinued Signs

  • If a conforming sign advertises a business, service, commodity, accommodation, attraction or other enterprise or activity that is no longer operating or being offered or conducted, a blank sign face shall be installed within 180 days after such discontinuation.
  • If a nonconforming sign advertises a business, service, commodity, accommodation, attraction or other enterprise or activity that is no longer operating or being offered or conducted that sign and sign structure including, but not limited to, the supporting braces, anchors or similar components shall be considered discontinued regardless of reason or intent and shall, within 180 days after such discontinuation, be removed by the owner of the property where the sign is located.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.2.8 Removal of Signs in the Right-of-Way

    The Development and Design Services Department or designee may remove and destroy or otherwise dispose of any sign placed on public property or within any right-of-way of any public or private street. Penalties shall be levied for each such sign as outlined in Section 2.3.5 of this Ordinance.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.1 Civic Signs (off-premises)

    Signs which denote the location of religious, charitable, fraternal, military or service organizations that are located within the City of Morganton’s jurisdiction.

    Max. Area6 square feet per organization
    Civic Sign
    Max. Height6 feet tall
    Max. Number2 off-premises signs per organization,
    1 sign per lot of record
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    OtherNA
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.2 Internal Directional Signs (on-premises)

    Signs that are located on the premise/property to provide directions.

    Max. Area12 square feet
    On-premises Directional Sign
    Max. Height6 feet tall
    Max. NumberN/A
    Min. SetbackNot legible from public right-of-way
    OtherSigns shall contain no copy other than directional information.
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.3 Entrance/Exit Directional Signs (on-premises)

    Signs that are located at a driveway entrance from a public street or internal access drive to provide directions to enter and exit the property.

    Max. Area4 square feet
    Entrance/Exit Directional Sign
    Max. Height3 feet tall
    Max. NumberN/A
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    OtherSigns shall contain no copy other than directional information, “enter”, “exit”, “welcome”, “thank you, business name or logo
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.4 Flags

    Flags or insignia of any nation, organization of nations, state, county or municipality, any religious, civic or fraternal organization, or any educational or cultural facility and/or any one (1) corporate flag per lot. Flags used for advertising a particular business or service shall be regulated by Section 5.3.11 (B) (4).

    Max. AreaNA
    Flags
    Max. HeightMaximum district height
    Max. Number4 per lot of record
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    OtherNA

    NA=Not Applicable

    *The Requirements of this section shall not apply to flags on public property.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.5 Government Signs

    Signs posted or authorized by various local, state and federal agencies in the performance of their duties including providing community information and facilitating economic development. Such signs include but are not limited to regulatory signs, traffic signs, welcome signs, bulletin board, directory, and wayfinding signs.

    Max. AreaNA
    Government Sign
    Max. HeightMaximum district height
    Max. NumberNA
    Min. SetbackMay be located in right-of-way
    OtherNA
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.6 Legal and Warning Signs

    Signs erected to warn of danger or hazardous conditions such as signs erected by public utility companies or construction companies; signs required for or specifically authorized for a public purpose by any law, statute or ordinance.

    Max. Area8 square feet
    Warning Sign
    Max. Height10 feet
    Max. NumberNA
    Min. SetbackMay be located in right-of-way
    OtherNA
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.7 Occupant/Address Number Signs

    Signs affixed to structures, including but not limited to mailboxes, decorative light posts, driveway entrances, etc., which serve to identify the address of the structure or occupant.

    Max. Area8 square feet
    Address Sign
    Max. HeightNA (structure mounted)
    Max. Number1 per street frontage or entrance
    Min. SetbackNA (structure mounted)
    OtherAll such signs shall be placed in such a manner as to be visible from the street.
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.8 Placard Signs

    Small signs attached to a wall near the building entrance which displays historic designations or the name, address and/or logo, trademark, occupation or profession of the occupant or building.

    Max. Area10 square feet
    Placard Sign
    Max. HeightNA (wall mounted)
    Max. Number1 per street frontage
    Min. SetbackNA (wall mounted)
    OtherNA
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.9 Incidental Signs

    Signs that cannot be read from the street right-of-way which inform or instruct customers or visitors on-site (i.e. drive-through menu boards, gas pump signs, bulletin boards, signs inside of a stadium).

    Max. AreaNA
    Incidental Sign
    Max. HeightNA
    Max. NumberNA
    Min. SetbackNA
    OtherSign shall not be legible or attract attention from off site
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.10 Political Signs

    Signs displaying support for or opposition to a candidate, political party, or referendum. These signs shall be permitted in accordance with NCGS 136-32(b).

    Max. Area6 square feet in right-of-way, 16 square feet on private property
    Political Sign
    Max. Height3 feet
    Max. NumberNA
    Min. SetbackNA
    OtherShall be permitted up to 45 days prior to election/referendum and 10 days after
    NA=Not Applicable

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.3.11 Temporary Freestanding Signs

  • Temporary freestanding signs shall not be located within a public street right-of-way or sight triangle and shall not be attached to trees or utility poles or on publicly-owned property. Temporary signs shall not be illuminated except for temporary holiday decorations. Each lot of record within the jurisdiction of the City of Morganton may have up to one (1) temporary sign unless otherwise specified in this Section.
  • Temporary freestanding signs include those listed below. Temporary signs that do not fit into one (1) of the following categories are not permitted:
    1. Real Estate and Construction Signs

      Signs that advertise the sale or lease of a property or the construction of a new building.

    • Max. Area
    • 6 square feet (single-family and two-family residential
    • 18 square feet (multi-family residential and non-residential)
    Real Estate Sign
    Max. Height
    • 3 feet (single-family and two-family residential
    • 6 feet (multi-family residential and non-residential)
    Max. Number1
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    Other
    • Shall be removed upon completion of sale, event or feature being promoted
    • Shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation or sight lines
      1. A-frame signs

        Signs with two sides angled vertically that advertise a special sale, event, or feature that are removed at the close of business each day. This sign type includes changeable grease boards, black boards and white boards.

    Max. Area6 square feet
    A-frame Sign
    Max. Height3 feet
    Max. Number1
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    Other
    • Shall be removed daily at close of business
    • Shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation or sight lines
      1. Wire Frame Signs

        Two-sided plastic signs on a metal wire frame that affixes to the ground and advertises a special sale, event or feature.

    Max. Area6 square feet
    Wire Frame Sign
    Max. Height3 feet
    Max. Number1
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    Other
    • Allowed in MID and HID zoning districts only
    • Shall be removed daily at close of business
    • Shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation or sight lines
      1. Feather Flags

        Signs on flexible material that blow in the wind like a flag and resemble the outline of a feather and advertise a business, special sale, event, or feature.

    Max. Area18 square feet
    Feather Flag
    Max. Height8 feet
    Max. Number1
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    Other
    • Allowed in MID, HID, and CBD zoning districts only
    • Shall be removed daily at close of business
    • Shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation or sight lines
      1. Fundraiser signs

        Signs identifying or promoting fundraising campaigns or events for tax-exempt, non-profit organizations.

    Max. Area18 square feet
    Fundraiser Sign
    Max. Height8 feet
    Max. Number1
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    Other
    • Shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation or sight lines
    • Maximum of 30 days per campaign or event
      1. Yard Sale Signs

        Signs identifying a temporary yard sale that meets the requirements of Section 3.4.8 (D) (7). Such signs are placed no more than one (1) prior to the yard sale and are removed a maximum of (1) day after the yard sale.

    Max. Area6 square feet
    Yard Sale Sign
    Max. Height3 feet
    Max. Number1
    Min. SetbackOutside of right-of-way
    Other
    • Shall be placed no more than 1 day prior to the yard sale and shall be removed a maximum of 1 day after the yard sale
    • Shall not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular circulation or sight lines

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.1 Development Entrance Sign

    Permanent sign each the entrance of multiple lot neighborhoods or non-residential developments that identifies only the name and/or address of the development or neighborhood. Development entrance signs cannot be used in combination with freestanding signs.

    5.4.2 Wall Sign

    A permanent sign that identifies a business or organization or available services or merchandise that is affixed to a building wall, window, canopy or awning. Wall signs include any combination of projecting signs, awning signs, canopy signs, window signs, and wall-mounted banners.

    5.4.3 Freestanding Sign (on-premises)

    A permanent sign that identifies a business or organization or a group of businesses or organizations located on-site that is mounted to the ground.

    5.4.4 Interstate Sign

    A tall on-premises monopole sign within 250 feet of the Interstate 40 right-of-way intended to be visible to the traveling public on the interstate.

    5.4.5 Special Provisions for Off-Premises Advertising Signs Prior to 10/1/06

    Off premise advertising signs legally erected and/or amortized and brought into compliance prior to October 1, 2006 may be reconstructed or replaced with a Digital Billboard under the following conditions:

    1. Applicant must designate and permanently remove four (4) non-conforming off-premises signs located elsewhere within the jurisdiction of the City of Morganton; however, the removed signs cannot include nonconforming off premise signs erected within public rights-of-ways that advertise service clubs, churches and civic organizations.
    2. The digital sign shall not be located closer than:
      1. 500 feet to any other outdoor advertising sign;
      2. 500 feet measured along the roadways to any residential structure;
      3. 250 feet radial to any residential structure not located on the same roadway, or roadways as the sign; and
      4. 50 feet to any free-standing sign.
    3. The maximum size of the sign shall be 300 square feet.
    4. The sign shall conform to all building setbacks, and in the case of a co-location with any principal commercial building and off premises advertising sign on a single lot, the sign shall also comply with a 40 foot spacing requirement from any principal commercial structure.
    5. V-type signs, forming an angle of 35 degrees or less, shall be permitted provided that each panel does not exceed the maximum sign size of 300 square feet.
    6. The maximum sign height shall not exceed 30 feet. For signs located below road grade the sign shall not exceed 30 feet above the nearest adjacent public road elevation.
    7. The images and messages displayed must be static and must remain static for a minimum of eight (8) seconds, prior to being replaced by new images or messages.
    8. Prior to 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 7,500 nits.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.1 Signs that Obstruct Visibility

    Signs that substantially interfere with the view necessary for motorists to proceed safely through intersections or to enter onto or exit from public streets or private roads or driveways or that obstruct the motorist’s view of approaching, merging or intersecting traffic including, but not limited to, signs in excess of three (3) feet in sight triangles.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.2 Signs Emitting Glare

    Signs with light sources or reflectivity of such brightness that result in glare, blinding or any other such adverse effect on motorist vision or into or upon any residential building not related to the signs; or which interfere with the effectiveness of, or obscures an official traffic sign, device or signal.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.3 Simulated Public Safety, Warning, or Traffic Signs

    Signs by their location, color, illumination, size, shape, nature, message or appearance tend to obstruct the view of or be confused with official traffic, safety or warning signs or lights or other devices erected by governmental agencies. This prohibition includes signs having no bona fide safety necessity, involving the terms "CAUTION", "DANGER", "SLOW", "STOP" OR "YIELD", or which utilize geometric figures, symbols, lights, location or message not unlike official traffic, safety or warning signs, signals or lights. Provided, however, this provision is not intended to prevent the placement on private property of signs with "stop", "yield" or other such wording or design where such is necessary for traffic control or other such legitimate notice to the public.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.4 Signs that Obstruct Ingress/Egress

    Any sign located outdoors which interferes with free passage from or obstructs any fire escape, downspout, window, door, stairway, ladder, or opening intended as a means of ingress or egress or providing light or air.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.5 Snipe Signs

    Signs placed upon or attached to any curb, utility pole, post, fence, hydrant, bridge, another sign or other surface, public bench, streetlight, or any tree, rock or other natural object located on, over or across any public street or public property. Provided, however, this provision shall not apply to the posting of public interest, security and warning signs nor to street signs placed upon poles by governmental units for designating the names of streets.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.6 Signs Below Minimum Clearance

    Signs, marquees, canopies and awnings with vertical clearance of less than eight (8) feet above sidewalks and pedestrian areas and less than one (1) feet above parking or vehicular passage areas.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.7 Flashing Signs

    Signs or devices with flashing, intermittent, animated or changing intensity of illumination, provided, however, traffic signals, railroad crossing signals, other official warning or regulatory signs that present messages of public services shall not be considered flashing signs.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.8 Signs in Rights-of-Way

    Any sign erected in or over any public right-of-way except for major special event signs by special permit; and governmental signs.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.9 Obscene Signs

    Signs containing words or graphics that are obscene, as defined in North Carolina General Statute 14-190.1.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.10 Signs Without Permission

    Signs placed on property without permission of its owners or agent.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.11 Unspecified Temporary Signs

    Portable or temporary signs except as permitted by Section 5.3.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.12 Motion Signs

    Motion Sign

    Motion signs, rotating signs, or signs that have mechanical moving parts.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.13 Facsimile Signs

    Facsimile Sign

    Three-dimensional objects or human figures which may or may not contain advertising matter, and may or may not contain information about products sold on the premises, and is located in such a manner as to attract attention.

     

     

     

     

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.14 Roof Signs

    Roof Sign

    Signs erected in whole or in part on, upon or over the roof or parapet of a building or structure and which are wholly or partially dependent upon the roof of the building or structure for support, except in cases where pre-existing buildings constructed with mansard roofs have Wall signage upon the mansard roof which does not extend above the ridge of the roof.

     

     

     

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.15 Un-encased Pole Signs

    Un-encased Pole Sign

    Signs with a single support pole that is not wrapped in an encasement as set forth in Section 5.4.3, except as permitted for interstate signs as set forth in Section 5.4.4.

     

     

     

     

     

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.16 Vehicle Signs

    Vehicle Sign

    Signs placed upon, painted on, attached to or displayed on parked vehicles or trailers, where the primary purpose of the vehicle or trailer is to advertise a product or business or to direct people to a business or activity.

     

     

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.17 Inflatable signs

    Inflatable Sign

    Signs inflated with air including balloons having a width, height, depth or circumference of greater than two (2) feet.

     

     

     

     

     

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.18 Transportable Sign

    Transportable Sign

    Any sign whose sign face was initially constructed and designed to be placed and/or transported on wheels, regardless if said sign face is removed from its base and placed on or in the ground so as to otherwise classify said sign as a "freestanding" sign as herein defined.

     

     

     

     

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.5.19 Other Signs Not Expressly Permitted

    Other signs not expressly permitted in this Ordinance are prohibited.

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.1.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number    		Other
    LIDPL35 sf82Maximum area may be split between 2 signs on either side of each development entrance
    MIDPL35 sf82
    HIDPL50 sf82
    CBDPL25 sf82
    EIDPL50 sf82
    SIDPL50 sf82
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    NA=Not Applicable
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number    		Other
    LIDPL35 sf82Maximum area may be split between 2 signs on either side of each development entrance
    MIDPL35 sf82
    HIDPL50 sf82
    CBDPL25 sf82
    EIDPL50 sf82
    SIDPL50 sf82
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    NA=Not Applicable
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number    		Other
    LIDPL35 sf82Maximum area may be split between 2 signs on either side of each development entrance
    MIDPL35 sf82
    HIDPL50 sf82
    CBDPL25 sf82
    EIDPL50 sf82
    SIDPL50 sf82
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    NA=Not Applicable
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number    		Other
    LIDPL35 sf82Maximum area may be split between 2 signs on either side of each development entrance
    MIDPL35 sf82
    HIDPL50 sf82
    CBDPL25 sf82
    EIDPL50 sf82
    SIDPL50 sf82
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    NA=Not Applicable
    Development Entrance Sign

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.1.2 Design Standards
  • All development entrance signs shall be monument or arm style.
  • Development entrance signs within the River District Overlay shall incorporate stacked stone or similar material into the base and/or columns of the sign. Sand-blasted wood signs are encouraged.
  • Development entrance signs may be placed in an island located within a City-maintained public street right-of-way upon approval of encroachment agreement by the City.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.2.1 District and Size Standards
    5.4.2.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (10% of building wall up to)    		Max.
    Number
    (per wall)    		Other
    LIDPL*24 sf1
    • Area calculated based on total area of building wall upon which the sign is located
    • Max. area may be split between number of signs allowed
    MIDPL100 sf2
    HIDPL500 sf4
    CBDPL100 sf4
    EIDPL300 sf3
    SIDPL100 sf2
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    5.4.2.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (10% of building wall up to)    		Max.
    Number
    (per wall)    		Other
    LIDPL*24 sf1
    • Area calculated based on total area of building wall upon which the sign is located
    • Max. area may be split between number of signs allowed
    MIDPL100 sf2
    HIDPL500 sf4
    CBDPL100 sf4
    EIDPL300 sf3
    SIDPL100 sf2
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    5.4.2.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (10% of building wall up to)    		Max.
    Number
    (per wall)    		Other
    LIDPL*24 sf1
    • Area calculated based on total area of building wall upon which the sign is located
    • Max. area may be split between number of signs allowed
    MIDPL100 sf2
    HIDPL500 sf4
    CBDPL100 sf4
    EIDPL300 sf3
    SIDPL100 sf2
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    5.4.2.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max. Area
    (10% of building wall up to)    		Max.
    Number
    (per wall)    		Other
    LIDPL*24 sf1
    • Area calculated based on total area of building wall upon which the sign is located
    • Max. area may be split between number of signs allowed
    MIDPL100 sf2
    HIDPL500 sf4
    CBDPL100 sf4
    EIDPL300 sf3
    SIDPL100 sf2
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
     
     Typical Wall SignProjecting Sign 
      
    Awning and Window SignsCanopy Sign

     

    Temporary Banner

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.2.2 Design Standards
  • A.
    Wall signs may be located on any building wall.
  • B.
    Canopy and awning signs shall not cover more than 50 percent of the canopy or awning area. Signs hanging beneath a canopy shall not be greater than five (5) square feet and shall provide a minimum seven (7) foot vertical clearance. 
  • C.
    Window signs shall not comprise more than 50 percent of the window area in addition to the maximum area requirements of Section 5.4.2.1 above. Temporary banners shall not cover windows.
  • D.
    Wall signs shall not project more than 12 inches from the wall face, except for projecting signs which may project up to four (4) feet. Projecting signs shall provide a minimum eight (8) foot vertical clearance.
  • E.
    Projecting signs shall be limited to 25 square feet per façade.
  • F.
    Wall signs shall not extend above the parapet or eave of the building except in cases where pre-existing buildings constructed with mansard roofs may contain wall signage upon the mansard roof that does not extend above the ridge or peak of the roof.
  • G.
    Up to 50 percent of the allowable area of a wall sign may be manual or electronic changeable copy.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.3.1 District and Size Standards
    5.4.3.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (1-10 tenants)    		Max. Number
    (10+ tenants)
    LIDPL35sf61 per site2 per site
    MIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant (up to 65sf)101 per site2 per site
    HIDPL100sf + 15sf per tenant
    (up to 200 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    CBDPL10sf + 5 sf per tenant (up to 25sf)61 per site2 per site
    EIDPL50sf + 10sf per tenant
    (up to 150 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    SIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant
    (up to 100sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    5.4.3.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (1-10 tenants)    		Max. Number
    (10+ tenants)
    LIDPL35sf61 per site2 per site
    MIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant (up to 65sf)101 per site2 per site
    HIDPL100sf + 15sf per tenant
    (up to 200 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    CBDPL10sf + 5 sf per tenant (up to 25sf)61 per site2 per site
    EIDPL50sf + 10sf per tenant
    (up to 150 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    SIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant
    (up to 100sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    5.4.3.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (1-10 tenants)    		Max. Number
    (10+ tenants)
    LIDPL35sf61 per site2 per site
    MIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant (up to 65sf)101 per site2 per site
    HIDPL100sf + 15sf per tenant
    (up to 200 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    CBDPL10sf + 5 sf per tenant (up to 25sf)61 per site2 per site
    EIDPL50sf + 10sf per tenant
    (up to 150 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    SIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant
    (up to 100sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    5.4.3.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (1-10 tenants)    		Max. Number
    (10+ tenants)
    LIDPL35sf61 per site2 per site
    MIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant (up to 65sf)101 per site2 per site
    HIDPL100sf + 15sf per tenant
    (up to 200 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    CBDPL10sf + 5 sf per tenant (up to 25sf)61 per site2 per site
    EIDPL50sf + 10sf per tenant
    (up to 150 sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    SIDPL35sf + 5sf per tenant
    (up to 100sf)    		201 per site2 per site
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
      
    Monument SignEncased Pole Sign
      
    Multi-tenant Pylon SignArm Sign

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.3.2 Design Standards
  • Lots with two (2) or more tenants shall utilize a multi-tenant sign.
  • Freestanding signs may be monument, arm, pylon, or encased pole style, except that freestanding signs located within the LID and MID zoning districts or within any zoning district in the River District Overlay or CBD zoning district shall be monument or arm style only. Pole signs shall be wrapped in an encasement a minimum of 18 inches wide, and shall not have a top to base ratio of greater than 3:1.
    • FIGURE 5.3: ENCASED POLE SIGN PROPORTION
    1. Freestanding signs in the Corridor Overlay shall incorporate brick, stacked or mortared stone, or similar material into the base and or columns of the sign.
    2. Freestanding signs in the River District Overlay shall incorporate stacked or mortared stone or similar material into the base and/or columns of the sign. Sand-blasted wood signs are encouraged.
    Examples of signs that incorporate stone
    1. Up to 50 percent of the allowable area of a freestanding sign may be manual or electronic changeable copy.
    2. All freestanding signs shall have a minimum of 50 square feet of landscaping around the base of the sign. Landscaping shall include a minimum of eight (8) small shrubs. One (1) medium shrub may be substituted for every two (2) small shrubs. Sign landscaping requirements may also be met by the street yard requirement set forth in Section 4.4.4.
    Examples of sign landscaping

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.4.1 District and Size Standards
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (per lot)    		Other
    LIDNoNANANA
    • May only be located within 250 feet of interstate
    • Min. lot size of 1 acre
    • Replaces allowable freestanding sign
    MIDNoNANANA
    HIDPL200501
    CBDNoNANANA
    EIDPLNANANA
    SIDPLNANANA
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    NA=Not Applicable
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (per lot)    		Other
    LIDNoNANANA
    • May only be located within 250 feet of interstate
    • Min. lot size of 1 acre
    • Replaces allowable freestanding sign
    MIDNoNANANA
    HIDPL200501
    CBDNoNANANA
    EIDPLNANANA
    SIDPLNANANA
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    NA=Not Applicable
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (per lot)    		Other
    LIDNoNANANA
    • May only be located within 250 feet of interstate
    • Min. lot size of 1 acre
    • Replaces allowable freestanding sign
    MIDNoNANANA
    HIDPL200501
    CBDNoNANANA
    EIDPLNANANA
    SIDPLNANANA
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    NA=Not Applicable
    DistrictSign
    Type
    Allowed    		Max.
    Area
    (square feet)    		Max. Height
    (feet)    		Max.
    Number
    (per lot)    		Other
    LIDNoNANANA
    • May only be located within 250 feet of interstate
    • Min. lot size of 1 acre
    • Replaces allowable freestanding sign
    MIDNoNANANA
    HIDPL200501
    CBDNoNANANA
    EIDPLNANANA
    SIDPLNANANA
    P: Sign permitted
    L: Illumination Allowed
    *: External illumination only
    NA=Not Applicable
     Interstate Sign

    Effective on: 1/1/1901

    5.4.4.2 Design Standards
  • Interstate signs shall not have manual or electronic changeable copy.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901