This division shall be known, cited and referred to as:The Town of Normal Sign Code (hereinafter referred to as "Code").

The purpose of the regulations set forth in the Town of Normal Sign Code is to further an overall plan for the enhancement of public safety, consistent community development, preservation of property values, and the general welfare of the Town of Normal. The regulations are further intended to: aid in traffic control and safety; preserve and protect property values; lessen congestion of land and air space; provide against undue concentrations of signs which distract and endanger traffic safety and traffic flow; establish reasonable standards for commercial and other advertising through the use of signs in order to maintain and encourage business activity and area development; avoid uncontrolled proliferation of signs; recognize the rights of the public in its use of roads, streets and highways; preserve the wholesome and attractive character of the Town; and to recognize that the general welfare of the public includes a community plan that provides for a community that shall be beautiful as well as healthful, spacious as well as clean, and well balanced in its growth and development.

The promotion of the public health and safety is to be accomplished by reducing the distractive characteristics of signs along public streets and highways, by prohibiting all signs which interfere with public traffic control devices, and by assuring the establishment of adequate and sufficient standards for the erection and maintenance of all signs and sign structures.

The promotion of the public comfort and welfare is to be accomplished by reducing the number of signs in the Town of Normal and by insuring adequate and appropriate spacing of signs so that confusion is reduced and so that businesses can effectively communicate with the public. The public comfort and welfare will be furthered by regulating the size, height, location and general characteristics of permitted signs in order to protect and to enhance the physical appearance and scenic value of the Town of Normal and the surrounding area, and by regulating signs located near or visible from public property such as streets, highways, parks, schools, nursing homes and hospitals where such signs could jeopardize the public's investment in these facilities.

Any sign not expressly permitted by this Code is prohibited in the Town of Normal. All signs must comply with all applicable provisions of the building, electrical, and Municipal Codes of the Town of Normal.

Sign types and the computation of sign area shall be as depicted in the following figures.

1. General Sign Types.
   1. Figure 15.13-5(A)(1): Common Freestanding Sign Types
      
      
   2. Figure 15.13-5(A)(2): Wall or Fascia Signs on Storefronts
      
      
   3. Figure 15.13-5(A)(3): Roof Sign
      
      
   4. Figure 15.13-5(A)(4): Canopy Sign
      
      
   5. Figure 15.13-5(A)(5): Projecting Sign
      
      
2. Comparisons of Roof and Wall or Fascia Signs.
   1. Roof Signs
      1. Figure 15.13-5(B)(1)(a): Sloping Roof-Mount Sign
         
         
         
         
      2. Figure 15.13-5(B)(1)(b): Flat Roof Mount Style Signs (not permitted)
         
         
         
         
   2. Fascia Signs on Roof-Like Projections
      1. Figure 15.13-5(B)(2)(a): Canopy Mount Style Sign
         
         
         
         
      2. Figure 15.13-5(B)(2)(b): Mansard Mount Style Sign
         
         
      3. Figure 15.13-5(B)(2)(c): Pent Eave Mount Style Sign
         
         
3. Sign Area Computation Methodology.
   1. Figure 15.13-5(C)(1): Copy Elements Without Frame
      
      
      
   2. Figure 15.13-5(C)(2): Copy Elements Within Frame
      
      
   3. Figure 15.13-5(C)(3): Copy Elements With Non-Connected Shapes
      
      
   4. Figure 15.13-5(C)(4): Copy Elements Containing Various Sizes Without Frame
      
      

1. Conformance to Codes. Any sign hereafter erected shall conform to the provisions of this ordinance and the provisions of Chapter 11 of the Municipal Code Town of Normal and of any other applicable ordinance or regulations of the Town of Normal.
2. Signs in Public Rights-of-Way. No sign other than an official traffic sign or similar sign shall be erected within the right-of-way lines of any street, or within any public way, unless specifically authorized by other ordinances or regulations of the Town of Normal or by specific authorization of a Town official.
   
   Such signs may be deemed a hazard to the community and may be removed immediately by the Zoning Code Administrator or delegate. These signs may be disposed of or held at the discretion of the Zoning Code Administrator for retrieval by the offending party.
3. Traffic Visibility. No sign or sign structure shall be erected at the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision, nor at any location where by its position, shape or color it may interfere with or obstruct the view of or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device.
4. Computation of Frontage. If a premises contains walls facing more than one property line or encompasses property frontage bounded by more than one street or other property usages, the allowable sign area for the parcel shall be computed on the longer of the sides fronting a right of way.
5. Maintenance, Repair, and Removal. Every sign permitted by this ordinance shall be kept in good condition and repair. When any sign becomes insecure, in danger of falling or is otherwise deemed unsafe by the code official, or if any sign shall be unlawfully installed, erected or maintained in violation of any of the provisions of this ordinance, the owner thereof or the person or firm using same shall, upon written notice by the code official forthwith in the case of immediate danger, and in any case within not more than 10 days, make such sign conform to the provisions of this ordinance, or shall remove it. If within 10 days the order is not complied with, the code official shall be permitted to remove or cause such sign to be removed at the expense of the owner and/or the user of the sign.
6. Obsolete Non-premise Sign Copy. Any sign copy that no longer advertises or identifies a use conducted on the property on which said sign is erected must have the sign copy covered or removed within 30 days after written notification from the municipal code official; and upon failure to comply with such notice, the code official is hereby authorized to cause removal of such sign copy, and any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building, structure or ground on which the sign is located.
7. Nonconforming Signs. Any sign legally existing at the time of the passage of this ordinance that does not conform in use, location, height or size with the regulations of the zone in which such sign is located, shall be considered a legal nonconforming use or structure and shall be permitted to continue in such status until the earlier of such time as it is either abandoned or removed by its owner.
   1. A non-conforming sign may not be:
      1. Changed to another non-conforming sign;
      2. Structurally altered so as to prolong the life of the sign;
      3. Expanded;
      4. Re-established after its removal for a period of more than 30 days;
      5. Re-established after damage or destruction if the estimated expense of reconstruction exceeds 50% of its fair cash value prior to the time of destruction.
   (Subsection G Amended 5/21/12 by Ord. No. 5440)
8. Freestanding Sign Design Regulations. All freestanding signs, including but not limited to on-premise, high-rise and outdoor advertising signs (billboards) shall be constructed and designed so as not to detract aesthetically, or create an adverse economic impact upon adjacent or surrounding property.
   
   The following basic design elements shall be considered by the Town prior to the issuance of a permit to construct, alter or modify any sign located in the business, commercial or manufacturing districts within the Town of Normal.
   1. Structural elements or components of a sign shall be treated or screened to prevent or reduce the visibility from a public way or an adjacent property. This shall be accomplished with the use of decorative building materials, landscape materials including trees, shrubs, bushes, or flowers.
   2. Where an existing or proposed structure is present sign on a lot, sign construction shall be similar in design, material and architecture so as to be harmonious with the building and its surroundings.
   3. Lighting associated with a freestanding signs shall provide a plan indicating beam spread foot-candle levels and shall be installed so as not spillover or glare to adjacent property or public right-of-way.
9. Sign Location. All freestanding signs, must be located on a lot of record with frontage on a public road.

The following signs shall be exempt from the permit provisions of this chapter. No sign shall be exempt from sec. 15.13-8. These signs are permitted in addition to the signs permitted in the respective use districts, but are subject to the conditions and limitations set forth herein.

1. Official notices authorized by a court, public body, or public safety official.
2. Directional, warning or information signs authorized by federal, state or municipal governments.
3. Street address signs and combination nameplate and street address signs that contain no advertising copy and which do not exceed 6 square feet in area or 6 feet in height.
4. [RESERVED] (Subsection (D) Amended 11/21/22 by Ord. No. 5921)
5. Public Signs. Signs of a public, non-commercial nature to include safety signs, danger signs, trespassing signs, traffic signs, street name signs and municipal identification signs, signs indicating scenic or historic points of interest, memorial plaques, signs and emblems of nationally recognized service club organizations and all signs erected by an order of a public official in the performance of a public duty.
6. Flags. Flags bearing the official design of a nation, state, municipality, business enterprise, educational institution or service organization; such flags to be appropriately and properly displayed.
7. Integral Signs. Names of buildings, dates of construction, commemorative tablets, and similar signs, when carved into stone, concrete or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum or other permanent type of construction and made an integral part of the building or structure.
8. Private Traffic Direction Signs and Related Signs. Signs directing traffic movement onto a premises or within a premise, when such signs are located on the premises, shall not exceed 6 square feet in area for each sign and if free-standing, do not exceed 6 feet in total height. Such signs are considered to include parking directions, exit or entrance signs, drive-up window signs and restroom signs.
9. Real Estate Sale or Rental Sign. An on premise sign advertising for sale, rental, or lease, all or a portion thereof, the real estate upon which such sign is located. All such signs must be removed within 14 days following the sale, consummation of the lease, or rental of the property to which the sign pertains.
   1. In the R-1A and R-1B Single-Family Residence Districts, and the R-2 Mixed Residential District and the R-3A Medium Density Multiple-Family Residence District, either a wall-mounted or free-standing sign is permitted per dwelling, except in the R-2 Mixed Residential District and R-3A Medium Density Multiple-Family Residence District and R-3B High Density Multiple-Family Residence District 1 wall-mounted or free-standing sign is permitted for each dwelling unit, provided the dwelling in which such dwelling unit is located is not licensed by the Town as a multiple-family dwelling. In any event, a free-standing sign shall not exceed 6 feet in height and 6 square feet in sign area, and a wall-mounted sign shall not exceed 6 square feet in sign area.
   2. In all other zoning districts, either a wall-mounted or free-standing sign is permitted. If free-standing, such sign shall not exceed 12 feet in height and 32 square feet in sign area.
   3. Where a property is both for sale and for rent simultaneously, 1 advertising the sale and 1 sign advertising the rental or lease is permitted in accordance with the foregoing size limitations.
10. Underground Public Utility Warning Signs. Standard types of warning signs marking the routes of underground public utility pipes, conduits and cables.
11. Incidental Sign. A sign (i) with a total area of less than 1 square foot or (ii) that is not intended to be viewed from the public right-of-way. (Subsection (K) Amended 11/21/22 by Ord. No. 5921)

The following devices and locations shall be specifically prohibited:

1. Signs of the size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of illumination which may be confused with, or construed as a traffic control device, or which hides from view any traffic or street sign or signal, are prohibited. No sign or other advertising structure shall be erected at the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device, or which makes use of words “stop”, “look”, “danger”, or any other word, phrase symbol or character, in such a manner as to interfere with, or mislead or confuse pedestrians or operators of vehicles upon the thoroughfare.
2. Except as provided for elsewhere in this code, signs encroaching upon or overhanging public right-of-way. No sign shall be attached to any utility pole, light standard, street tree or any other public facility located within the public right-of-way.
3. Animated Signs. No sign shall be permitted which is animated by means of flashing, scintillating, blinking, or traveling lights.
4. Portable electric signs.
5. Any sign attached to, or placed on, a vehicle or trailer parked on public or private property, except for signs meeting the following conditions:
   1. The primary purpose of such a vehicle or trailer is not the display of signs.
   2. The signs are magnetic, decals or painted upon an integral part of the vehicle or equipment as originally designed by the manufacturer, and do not break the silhouette of the vehicle.
   3. The vehicle or trailer is in operating condition, currently registered and licensed to operate on public streets when applicable, and actively used or available for use in the daily function of the business to which such signs relate.
6. Vehicles and trailers used primarily as static displays, advertising a product or service.
7. Balloons, streamers, pinwheels, non-exempt flags or banners except those temporarily displayed as part of a special sale, promotion or community event. For the purposes of this subsection, “temporarily” means no more than 84 days in any calendar year.
8. Abandoned Signs. Any sign which constitutes an abandoned sign for 14 consecutive days.
9. Lots of Record. No freestanding sign shall be placed or allowed to remain on property unless such property is a lot of record with frontage on a public road.

1. Permits Required. Unless specifically exempted, a permit must be obtained from the code official for the erection and maintenance of all signs erected or maintained within this jurisdiction and in accordance with other ordinances of this jurisdiction. Signs erected or maintained within the B-2 Central Business District also require a Certificate of Compliance, as provided in division 15.17 of this Code. Exemptions from the necessity of securing a permit, however, shall not be construed to relieve the owner of the sign involved from responsibility for its erection and maintenance in a safe manner and in a manner in accordance with all the other provisions of this ordinance. (Amended 1/20/04 by Ord. No. 4926)
2. Construction Documents. Before any permit is granted for the erection of a sign or sign structure requiring such permit, construction documents shall be filed with the Inspection Department showing the dimensions, materials and required details of construction, including loads, stresses, anchorage and any other pertinent data. The permit application shall be accompanied by the written consent of the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is to be erected. Any sign greater than 100 square feet in area or greater than 15 feet in height shall require construction documents sealed by a structural engineer.
3. Changes to Signs. No sign shall be structurally altered, enlarged or relocated except in conformity to the provisions herein, nor until a proper permit, if required, has been secured. The changing or maintenance of moveable parts or components of an approved sign that is designed for such changes, or the changing of copy, business names, lettering, sign faces, colors, display and/or graphic matter, or the content of any sign shall not be deemed a structural alteration. Changes to copy, sign faces, or content do require a permit as required in the permit fee schedule.
4. Permit Fees. Permit fees to erect, alter or relocate a sign shall be in accordance with the fee schedule adopted within this jurisdiction as set forth in division 25.16. (Amended 2/16/09 by Ord. No. 5236)
5. Duration of Permit. Every sign permit issued by the Zoning Code Administrator shall become null and void if manufacture is not commenced within 120 days from the date of such permit. If work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for 120 days any time after the work is commenced, a new permit shall be first obtained to do so and the fee shall be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work provided that no changes have been made in the original plans. Such permit may not be unreasonably withheld, providing that proper application and payment of permit fees is complied with.
6. Issuance. The Zoning Code Administrator shall issue a permit for the erection, alteration or relocation of a sign within the Town when an application therefore has been properly made and the sign described therein complied with all appropriate laws and regulations of the Town.
7. Effect of Issuance. No permit for a sign issued hereunder shall be deemed to constitute permission or authorization to maintain an unlawful sign nor shall any permit issued hereunder constitute a defense in an action to abate an unlawful sign.

1. (A) Agricultural District.
   1. Square Footage. Wall signs are permitted to have a total of 2 square feet.
   2. Type of Sign. A wall sign is permitted if it is affixed to the dwelling door or wall adjacent thereto. No other signs are permitted.
   3. Number of Signs. One wall sign is permitted.
   4. Maximum Sign Height Above Grade. The sign may not project above the top of the wall.
2. (R-1) Single-Family and (R-2) Mixed Residential Zoning Districts.
   1. Square Footage. Wall signs are permitted to have a total of 2 square feet.
   2. Type of Sign. A wall sign is permitted if it is affixed to the dwelling door or wall adjacent thereto. No other signs are permitted.
   3. Number of Signs. One wall sign is permitted.
   4. Maximum Sign Height Above Grade. The sign may not project above the top of the wall.
   5. If property has a Special Use Permit, bulk requirements in sec. 15.13-10(E) apply.
3. (R-3A) Medium-Density Multiple-Family and (R-3B) High Density Multiple-Family Residential Zoning Districts.
   1. Square Footage. Each lot is entitled to a maximum of 40 square feet of signage (wall signs and freestanding signs combined) per street frontage, not including alleys.
   2. Type of Sign. Only wall signs and low-rise signs permitted.
   3. Number of Signs. 
      1. One freestanding sign is permitted per frontage.
      2. There is no limit on the number of wall signs.
   4. Maximum Sign Height Above Grade.
      1. Freestanding signs are limited in height to 6 feet.
      2. Wall signs may not project above the top of the wall.
   5. If property has a Special Use Permit for a non-residential land use, bulk requirements in sec. 15.13-10(E) apply.
4. (S-1) University District. S-1 University District is regulated by Illinois State University and is not subject to the Town's sign regulations.
5. (S-2) Public Lands and Institutions Zoning District and Residential Districts as a Special Use.
   1. Square Footage.
      1. Each lot is entitled to a maximum of 2.25 square feet of signage (wall signs and freestanding signs combined) per 1 lineal foot of the longest lot frontage.
      2. See Table 15.13-10(E) below for low-rise sign regulations in S-2. The square footage in Table 15.13-10(E) is part of the total square footage regulated by sec. 15.13-10(E)(1)(a).
   2. Type of Sign.
      1. The only freestanding sign permitted is a low-rise sign.
      2. All other types of wall signs are permitted.
   3. Number of Signs. A lot may have one freestanding sign for each street frontage, not including alleys. These signs may be located along the same street frontage so long as a minimum distance of 100 feet is maintained between the freestanding signs on said lot. No limit for other signs.
   4. Maximum Sign Height Above Grade.
      1. See Table 15.13-10(E) below for low-right sign.
      2. All other signs may not project above the top of the wall.
   5. Table 15.13-10(E): Maximum height and square footage of low-rise signs in S-2 and lots zoned R-1, R-2, or R-3 when such zoning is associated with a Special Use Permit
      
      

      Lot Frontage	Maximum Height	Maximum Square Footage
      200 feet or less	6 feet	75 square feet
      200-500 feet	10 feet	150 square feet
      500 feet or more	12 feet	200 square feet

      
      
6. (S-3) Historic and Cultural District. No sign shall be erected in the S-3 Historic District without the approval of the Historic Preservation Commission. The underlying zoning district bulk requirements regarding maximum sign area and sign height apply.
7. (C-1) Office District and (C-2) Neighborhood Shopping District
   1. Square Footage.
      1. If a freestanding sign is installed and meets the low-rise sign regulations in Table 15.13-10(H)(5), the lot is entitled to a maximum of 2.25 square feet of signage per one lineal foot of the longest street frontage.
      2. If a freestanding sign is installed and does not meet the low-rise sign regulations in Table 15.13-10(H)(5), the lot is entitled to a maximum of 1.5 square feet of signage per one lineal foot of the longest street frontage.
      3. Minimum sign area is 16 square feet per tenant space regardless of the lot frontage.
   2. Type of Sign. All sign types are permitted.
   3. Number of Signs.
      1. One freestanding sign is permitted per street frontage, not including alleys. These signs may be located along the same street frontage so long as a minimum distance of 100 feet is maintained between the freestanding signs on said lot.
      2. No limit for all other sign types.
   4. Maximum Sign Height Above Grade.
      1. See Table 15.13-10(H)(5) for the maximum height for a sign to qualify as a low-rise sign.
      2. See Table 15.13-10(H)(6) for the maximum height for free standing signs that are not classified as low-rise signs.
8. (C-3) Community/Regional Shopping District, (B-1) General Business District, (M-1) Restricted Manufacturing District, and (M-2) General Manufacturing District.
   1. Square Footage.
      1. If a freestanding sign is installed and meets the low-rise sign regulations in Table 15.13-10(H)(5), the lot is entitled to a maximum of 3 square feet of signage per one lineal foot of the longest street frontage.
      2. If a freestanding sign is installed and does not meet the low-rise sign regulations, the lot is entitled to a maximum of 2 square feet of signage per 1 lineal foot of the longest street frontage.
      3. Minimum sign area is 32 square feet per tenant space regardless of the lot frontage.
   2. Type of Sign. All sign types are permitted.
   3. Number of Signs.
      1. One freestanding sign is permitted per street frontage, not including alleys. These signs may be located along the same street frontage so long as a minimum distance of 100 feet is maintained between the freestanding signs on said lot.
      2. No limit for all other sign types.
   4. Maximum Sign Height Above Grade.
      1. See Table 15.13-10(H)(5) for the maximum height for a sign to qualify as a low-rise sign.
      2. See Table 15.13-10(H)(6) for the maximum height for free standing signs that are not classified as low-rise signs.
   5. Table 15.13-10(H)(5): Maximum height for a sign to qualify as a low-rise sign in the B-1, C, and M districts
      

      Lot Frontage	Maximum Sign Height
      100 feet or less	8 feet or less
      100-200 feet	10 feet or less
      200 feet or more	12 feet or less
      200 feet or more in C-3 and M-2	15 feet or less

      
      
   6. Table 15.13-10(H)(6): Permitted height and area for freestanding signs in zoning districts B-1, C-1, C-2, C-3, M-1, and M-2
      
      

      Speed Limit on Street	Lot Frontage on a Public Street	Maximum Allowable Freestanding Sign Height	Sign Area Pending Lot Frontage
      0-35 MPH	0' to 150'	15'	150 sq/ft
      0-35 MPH	150' or more	20'	200 sq/ft
      40-55 MPH	0' to 87.5'	15'	150 sq/ft
      40-55 MPH	87.5' to 150'	20'	225 sq/ft
      40-55 MPH	150' or more	30'	300 sq/ft
      60 MPH or more	0' to 22.5'	15'	120 sq/ft
      60 MPH or more	22.5' to 75'	25'	225 sq/ft
      60 MPH or more	75' to 127.5'	35'	330 sq/ft
      60 MPH or more	127.5' or more	50'	450 sq/ft

9. (B-2) Central Business District. See division 15.17 for all sign regulations for properties within the B-2 district.
   
10. Requirements for Specific Sign Types.
    1. Canopy and Marquee Signs.
       1. The permanently affixed copy area of canopy or marquee signs shall not exceed an area equal to 25% of the face area of the canopy, marquee or architectural projection upon which such sign is affixed or applied.
       2. Graphic striping, patterns or color bands on the face of a building, canopy, marquee or architectural projection shall not be included in the computation of sign copy area.
    2. Awning Signs.
       1. The copy area of awning signs shall not exceed an area equal to 25% of the background area of the awning or awning surface to which such a sign is affixed or applied, or the permitted area for wall or fascia signs, whichever is less.
       2. Neither the background color of an awning, nor any graphic treatment or embellishment thereto such as striping, patterns or valances, shall be included in the computation of sign copy area.
    3. Projecting Signs.
       1. Projecting signs shall be permitted in lieu of freestanding signage on any street frontage limited to one sign per occupancy along any street frontage with public entrance to such occupancy, and shall be limited in height and area as set forth in sec 15.13-10.
       2. No such sign shall extend vertically above the highest point of the building upon which it is mounted.
       3. Except in the B-2 Central Business District, such signs shall not extend over a public sidewalk or right-of-way.
    4. Under Canopy Signs. Such signs shall maintain a clear vertical distance above any sidewalk or pedestrian way a minimum of 8 feet.
    5. Roof Signs.
       1. Roof signs shall be permitted only in B-1, C, and M Zoning districts.
       2. Such signs shall be limited to a height above the ground and a sign area no more than the height and area provided in Table 15.13-10(H)(6) for freestanding signs.
       3. The sign area for roof signs shall be assessed against the aggregate permitted area for wall signs on the elevation of the building most closely parallel to the face of the sign.
    6. Menu Boards. For a business that utilizes a drive-up service, a maximum of 2 freestanding menu or communication boards shall be permitted for a single-lane drive through, and not more than 4 for a dual-lane drive through. Each such board shall not exceed 8 feet in height. The main menu board shall not exceed 75 square feet in area, and a pre-order board may not exceed 50 square feet in area. These boards are exempt from the sign bulk requirements.
    7. Outdoor Advertising Signs.
       1. The maximum sign height and area shall be determined by the specific zoning district and the posted street mph. See Table 15.13-10(H)(6) above.
          
       2. Freestanding signs shall a minimum of 1,000 feet from any other free-standing off-premise sign located on the same side of a two-way street, and 500 feet from any other free-standing off-premise sign on the opposite side a two-way street. The setback shall be measured from a perpendicular line across the street from the existing freestanding sign.
       3. Freestanding signs shall be a minimum of 1,000 feet from any other freestanding off-premise sign located on either side of a one-way street. The setback shall be measured from a perpendicular line across the street from the existing freestanding sign.
       4. Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any residential zoning district.
       5. Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of 100 feet from any other free-standing on-premise sign located on a lot.
       6. Freestanding signs may be located within the B-1, commercial and manufacturing zoning districts, however signs shall count toward the allowed number of free-standing signs for a site, and not be allowed as additional signs.
       7. Trim. Freestanding signs shall be constructed with a trim not to exceed two inches in width.
       8. Backs. Freestanding signs with backs visible from a public right of way shall be improved with decorative panels to cover the structural support of the sign area.
    8. Temporary Signs–Non-Residential. The following provisions apply in all zoning districts other than residential zoning districts:
       1. A permit is not required for temporary signs in non-residential areas.
       2. The total area of all such signs shall not exceed one square foot in area for each linear foot of the longest lot frontage in any business, commercial or industrial district.
       3. Temporary signs may be displayed for not more than 84 days in an calendar year.
    9. Temporary Signs–Residential. The following provisions apply in all residential zoning districts:
       1. A permit is not required for temporary signs in residential areas.
       2. Residential properties are limited to 40 square feet of signage.
       3. Individual signs shall not exceed 7 square feet of signage.
       4. Temporary signs located in residential areas designated S3 Historic District are not subject to review and approval by the Normal Historic Preservation Commission.
    10. Temporary Signs–Market Property. This sec. 15.13-10(C)(10) applies to property in any zoning district that is actively marketed for sale or lease (“Market Property”). In addition to the temporary signage allowed under sec. 15.13-10(C)(8) or sec. 15.13-10(C)(9), a Market Property may have additional temporary signage as follows:
        1. Market Property located in a non-residential district may have one freestanding sign per street front and one wall/window mounted sign per unit that is actively marketed for sale or lease; the size of each additional sign may not exceed 12 feet in height and 32 square feet in sign area.
        2. Market Property located in a residential district may have one additional sign. The size of the additional sign may not exceed the limitation under sec. 15.13-10(C)(9)(c). In addition, a multi-family building consisting of three or more units located in the R3 Residential Districts may have a wall mounted sign not to exceed 100 square feet of signage.
        3. Any additional sign under this sec. 15.13-10(C)(10) will not be included in the total area restrictions set forth in sec. 15.13-10(C)(8)(b) or sec. 15.13-10(C)(9)(b). The time limitations under sec. 15.13-10(C)(8)(c) do not apply to any additional temporary sign under this sec. 15.13-10(C)(10). Any additional temporary sign must be removed within 14 days after the Market Property is no longer for sale or lease.
        4. A property’s status as a Market Property may be evidenced by the property’s listing in a multiple listing service, contract with a broker or property manager, vacancy or impending vacancy, or other satisfactory evidence that the property is actively being marketed for sale or lease.
           
           (Subsection (C)(8) Amended 11/21/22 by Ord. No. 5921)
    11. Development and Construction Signs. Signs temporarily erected during construction to inform the public of the developer, contractors, architects, engineers, the nature of the project or anticipated completion dates, shall be permitted in all zoning districts, subject to the following limitations:
        1. Such signs on a single residential lot shall be limited to one sign, not greater than 6 feet in height and 6 square feet in area.
        2. Such signs for a residential subdivision or multiple residential lots shall be limited to one sign, at each entrance to the subdivision or on one of the lots to be built upon, and shall be no greater than 10 feet in height and 32 square feet in area.
        3. Such signs for nonresidential uses in residential districts shall be limited to one sign, and shall be no greater than 10 feet in height and 32 square feet in area.
        4. Such signs for commercial or industrial projects shall be limited to one sign per street front, not to exceed 10 feet in height and 32 square feet for projects on parcels 5 acres or less in size, and not to exceed 10 feet in height and 100 square feet for projects on parcels larger than 5 acres.
        5. Development and construction signs may not be displayed until after the issuance of construction permits by the building official, and must be removed not later than 24 hours following issuance of an occupancy permit for all or any portion of the project.
    12. Highrise Sign Corridor. Freestanding signs located within the “Highrise Sign Corridor” as defined may be 75 feet in height and up to 450 square feet in area. Table 15.13-10(H)(6) shall determine the actual allowable sign area. The corridor is as defined:
        1. 800 feet from each edge of Interstate 55 right-of-way as shown in Figure 15.13-10(J)(12).
        2. 800 feet from each edge of Interstate 39 north of Interstate 55 as shown in Figure 15.13-10(J)(12).
        3. 660 feet of the 800 feet is controlled by the Illinois Department of Transportation, in the event of code conflict the more restrictive provisions will apply.
        4. 250 feet from each edge of Main St. right-of-way south of Interstate 55 south to Raab Rd.
        5. Lots have frontage on Main St. south of Raab Rd. to the end of the B-1 General Business Zoning District as shown in Figure 15.13-10(J)(12) (Approximately 600 feet).
        6. Figure 15.13-10(J)(12): High Rise Sign Corridor
           
           
           
           
    
    (Entire Division 10 of SEC. 15.13 Amended 1/20/04 by Ord. No. 4926) (Entire Division 10 of SEC. 15.13 Amended 5/21/12 by Ord. No. 5440)

1. Compliance with Building Code. All signs shall comply with the appropriate detailed provisions of the Building Code as currently adopted by the Town, relating to design, structural members and connections. Any sign exceeding 100 square feet in area or, 15 feet in overall height shall be supplied with constructions documents sealed by a licensed Illinois Structural Engineer. Signs shall also comply with the provisions of the Town of Normal Electrical Code and the additional construction standards hereinafter set forth in this section.
2. Freestanding Signs & Materials. All freestanding sign structures or poles shall be self-supporting structures erected on and permanently attached to concrete foundations. Such structures or poles shall be fabricated only from painted steel or such other materials as permitted by the Building Code as adopted by the Town.
3. Strength of Parapet Wall. A parapet wall must have sufficient strength to support any sign which is attached hereto.
4. Supports and Braces. Metal supports or braces shall be adequate for wind loadings. Wire or cable supports shall have a safety factor of 4. All metal, wire cable supports and braces and all bolts used to attach sign to bracket or brackets and signs to the supporting building or structure shall be galvanized or an equivalent material.
5. Wind Loads. All signs shall be designed and constructed in conformity with the Building Code as currently adopted by the Town.
6. Sign Anchoring. Signs shall be anchored to prevent any lateral movement that would cause wear on supporting members or connectors.
7. Maintenance and Repair. Every sign, including but not limited to those for which a permit is required, shall be maintained in a safe, presentable and good structural material condition at all times, including the replacement of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning, and other acts required for the maintenance of said sign.
8. Electrical Requirements.
   1. All illuminated signs shall have a disconnecting switch located in accordance with the National Electrical Code. All illuminated elements of any sign shall always be maintained in satisfactory working condition, and shall be immediately repaired or replaced as needed. Signs that are only partially illuminated shall meet all electrical requirements for that portion directly illuminated. Electrical wiring for illuminated signs shall be installed by an electrical contractor licensed (or registered) with the Town of Normal. Sign contractors shall be permitted to make electrical connections from illuminated signs to approved electrical wiring located within 6 feet of signs or sign structures, provided that such connections are made in accordance with the National Electric Code.
   2. When a sign is illuminated either from an external source or by an internal source of light, direct rays of light shall not beam to or reflect upon any part of an existing residential building, nor into a residence zoned district, nor into a public street. A sign that is in the direct line of vision of any motorist with a traffic signal light shall not have red, green, yellow, or amber illumination when such illumination is likely to be confused with such signal.
   3. All gas discharge tubing systems (neon) shall be Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL) listed or an approved equal. Systems shall be designed and installed per Article 600 of the National Electrical Code. Complete system drawing are to include but are not limited to the following: complete tubing design layout and wiring circuits, transformer size(s) and secondary voltage(s). Maximum open circuit voltage shall be 7,500 volts to ground. Transformers above 7,500 volts shall be of balanced design and mid-point wired and enclosed in metallic raceways. All secondary components shall be rated for the circuit voltage and listed on the submitted data. All wiring and electrical terminations shall be protected from physical contact if less than 8 feet above finished floor.
   4. Any sign contractor who installs, services, or constructs signs requiring or using electricity shall be registered with the Town of Normal. Sign contractors will register annually with the Zoning Code Administrator or his representative at a charge of $50 per calendar year.

(SEC. 15.13-11 Amended 5/21/12 by Ord. No. 5440)

1. In any instance where signs have been abandoned and the sign or signs in question have not been removed per the requirements established in this Code, the Zoning Code Administrator upon 5 days’ prior written notice to the party maintaining the sign in violation of this Code, may enter the property to remove the sign or signs in violation thereof. Any part aggrieved by such notice from the Zoning Code Administrator may resort to sec. 15.12-3 of this Code for administrative relief. (Subsection (A) Amended 11/21/22 by Ord. No. 5921)
2. Whenever it shall appear to the Zoning Code Administrator, other than in the instances above set forth in the preceding paragraph, that any sign has been constructed, erected, or is being maintained in violation of the Code provisions of the Town, such Zoning Code Administrator shall issue a notice in writing to the owner or lessee of the sign or to the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located. Such notice in writing shall inform the recipient(s) of the violation(s) depicted and shall direct said party to make such alteration, repair, or removal as is necessary to secure compliance with the Code of the Town. Fourteen days from the date of the notice shall be deemed reasonable time, except in instances of mechanical or structural repair. Upon failure of the notice to comply with terms of the violation(s) so noticed within said time period, the Zoning Code Administrator is authorized to remove, alter, or appropriately repair the sign(s) in question for the benefit of the health, welfare, and safety of the general public. All expenses incident thereto shall be charged to said notice and subject to collection by court action by the Town.
3. Except as otherwise provided, the Zoning Code Administrator may remove or cause to be removed immediately any sign(s) without service of the appropriate notice if in the Administrator’s opinion the condition of the sign(s) is such as to present an immediate threat to the safety of the general public.
4. Any person aggrieved by any decision of the enforcement official relative to the provisions of this Code may within 5 days of receipt of such decision appeal such decision to the Zoning Board of Appeals as provided in sec. 15.12-3 of the Zoning Code. For purposes of this section, receipt of an administrator’s decision shall be presumed on the fourth day after mailing.

Variations as described hereinafter may be permitted by the Zoning Board of Appeals in appropriate cases, subject to the legislative intent specified in sec. 15.13-2 of this division, and standards established by sec. 15.12-4 of the Zoning Code. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall have authority to grant variations from the number of signs, maximum height, maximum area and minimum setback requirements of this division.

The penalties of the Zoning Code are hereby adopted by reference and made a part hereof.

If any part, provision, portion, article, section or subdivision of this Sign Code or application thereof to any person or circumstance is held unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such holding does not affect other provisions or applications of this Sign Code which can be given effect without the invalid application or provision, and the provisions of this Sign Code are severable unless otherwise provided.

The adoption of this new division 15.13 shall not affect, abrogate, or abridge any action now pending or any action that could be brought within the time provided by law for violation of division 15.13 as the same existed prior to adoption of this new division.

The owner of any sign which is otherwise allowed by this chapter may substitute noncommercial speech in lieu of any other commercial speech or noncommercial speech. This substitution of copy may be made without any additional approval or permitting. The purpose of this provision is to prevent an inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial speech. This provision prevails over any more specific provisions to the contrary.

(Subsection (17) Amended 11/21/22 by Ord. No. 5921)