Regulating the erection, location and maintenance of signs is necessary in order to protect the public health, safety, morals and welfare of the people of this community. The safety of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and other users of the public streets is affected by the number, size, location, lighting and movement of signs that divert or attract the attention of drivers. Additionally, the construction, erection and maintenance of free standing signs as well as signs suspended from or placed on the tops of buildings, walls or other structures may constitute a direct danger to pedestrian and vehicular traffic, especially during periods of strong winds. Moreover, uncontrolled and unlimited signs will result in negative visual impacts and degrade the aesthetic attractiveness of the natural and manmade attributes of the community and thereby undermine the health and welfare of the community, as well as the economic value of tourism, visitation and permanent economic growth.

(a)

Definition of sign. For purposes of this Code, a sign is any illuminated or non-illuminated identification, description, illustration or device which is visible from any public space or is located on private property and exposed to the public and directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution, business, cause or solicitation, including any permanently installed or situated merchandise; or any emblem, painting, banner, pennant, placard or temporary sign designed to advertise, identify, or convey information, with the exception of window displays and national flags. For purposes of removal, signs shall also include all sign structures.

(b)

Intent. The provisions of this article shall be construed and implemented to achieve the following intentions of the county:

(1)

To protect and preserve the character and appearance of Putnam County.

(2)

To create a comprehensive and balanced system of sign control that accommodates both the need for a well-maintained, safe and attractive community, and the need for effective business identification, advertising and communication.

(3)

To permit signs that are:

a.

Compatible with their surroundings.

b.

Designed, constructed, installed and maintained in a manner which does not endanger public safety or unduly distract motorists.

c.

Appropriate to the type of activity to which they pertain.

d.

Large enough to convey sufficient information about the owner or occupants of a particular property, the products or services available on the property, or the activities conducted on the property, and small enough to satisfy the needs for regulation.

e.

Reflective of the identity and creativity of individual occupants.

(4)

To promote the economic health of the community through increased tourism and property values.

Compliance with the requirements of these regulations shall not constitute a defense to an action brought to abate a nuisance under the common law.

The design, location and construction standards set forth in this article shall be strictly enforced within the major roadway corridor overlay described in article IV, division 5. Where the signage requirements of article IV and article VIII conflict, the requirements of article IV shall prevail.

(a)

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

(b)

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

(c)

Without diminishing or limiting in any way the declaration of severability set forth above in subsection (a), or elsewhere in this article, this Code, or any adopting ordinance, if any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article or any other law is declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect any other part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article that pertains to prohibited signs, including specifically those signs and sign-types prohibited and not allowed under article VIII, division 5 of this chapter. Furthermore, if any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of article VIII, division 5 is declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect any other part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of article VIII, division 5, thereby ensuring that as many prohibited sign-types as may be constitutionally prohibited continue to be prohibited.

(d)

If any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word of this article and/or any other code provisions and/or laws are declared invalid or unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, the declaration of such unconstitutionality shall not affect the regulation of billboards in section 45-732 or elsewhere in this article.

Notwithstanding anything contained in this article or code to the contrary, any sign erected pursuant to the provisions of this article or code or otherwise lawfully existing with a commercial message may, at the option of the owner, contain a noncommercial message in lieu of a commercial message. The noncommercial message may occupy the entire sign face or any portion thereof. The sign face may be changed from commercial to noncommercial messages, or from one noncommercial message to another, as frequently as desired by the owner of the sign, provided that the sign is not a prohibited sign or sign-type and provided that the size, height, setback and other dimensional criteria contained in this article and code have been satisfied.

It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, perform substantial repairs upon, construct, manufacture, enlarge, alter, move, or convert any permanent or temporary sign in Putnam County, or cause the same to be done, without first obtaining a sign permit for each such sign from the department, as required by this article. Any proposed sign that requires a permit must meet the applicable standards of this article in order for the permit to be issued. Exceptions to the permitting requirements are as follows:

(1)

This article shall not be construed to require any permit for a change of copy on any sign nor for the repainting, cleaning, and other normal maintenance or repair of a sign or sign structure for which a permit has previously been issued, so long as the size of the sign, or any attribute of the sign structure is not modified in any way; or

(2)

A sign is specifically exempted from permitting in article VIII, division 4 or article VIII, division 6 of this Code; or

(3)

A sign has a sign face of two square feet or less, a height of three feet or less, and include no letters, symbols, logos or designs in excess of six inches in vertical or horizontal dimension, provided that such sign, or combination of such signs, does not constitute a sign prohibited by article VIII, division 5 of this chapter. Unless otherwise exempt, such signs shall be subject to all other requirements pertaining to that particular type of sign.

(a)

Only the following may apply for a permit and perform work allowed by the permit:

(1)

For all signs with electrical components a State of Florida registered or licensed master electrician or electrical sign contractor is needed in addition to any of the persons listed in items (2) through (5) below.

(2)

A sign contractor who is licensed in Putnam County to perform sign construction and erection.

(3)

A general contractor licensed or registered with the State of Florida.

(4)

A building contractor licensed or registered with the State of Florida.

(5)

An owner of property may install his or her own sign provided:

a.

The property is held in the owner's private personal name, by solely owned proprietorship or a partnership of individuals so that a human may appear to claim the state authorized exemption from contracting laws. No corporation, even a solely owned one, can personally appear to claim an exemption from contractor licensing.

b.

The property to benefit from the sign is personally used by the owner, not leased, rented, or used by another person.

c.

The total value of the sign is less than $25,000.00.

d.

The sign is no greater than eight feet in height and has a sign area no greater than 32 square feet.

(b)

Insurance. Each sign contractor, general contractor or building contractor shall provide or show proof of a certificate of liability insurance and workers compensation with sufficient coverage to meet the dollar amounts required by state law.

Application for a permit shall be made to the department upon a form provided by the department. Before an application is reviewed by the department, the applicant must qualify under section 45-692 above and shall provide information necessary to assure compliance with this Code, including:

(1)

Name and address of owner of the sign;

(2)

Name and address of owner or the person in possession of the parcel where the sign is located or to be located;

(3)

Two copies of drawings of the sign, drawn to scale, and showing the following:

a.

Type of sign and all dimensions of the sign including height.

b.

Site plan showing the exact sign placement related to lot lines, structures, and other signs in sufficient detail to demonstrate compliance with the sign regulations of this Code. All measurements must be from the furthest projection of the sign or other structure.

c.

Size and type of footer, and how constructed. This detail is not required for the following:

1.

Masonry signs of 60 square feet or less in size and less than six feet in height; or

2.

Other ground signs of 32 square feet or less in size and eight feet or less in height.

d.

Details on how the sign is to be attached to a building, based upon wind speed indicated in the applicable building code, as adopted by the county, except for non-electric flat building signs that are 32 square feet or less in size with less than two inches projection from the surface on which they are mounted.

e.

Actual construction details of the sign, showing all connections based upon a minimum wind speed indicated in the applicable building code, as adopted by the county. This detail is not required for the following:

1.

Masonry signs of 60 square feet or less in size and less than six feet in height; or

2.

Other ground signs 32 square feet or less in size and eight feet or less in height.

f.

Details for any electrical service to the sign.

(4)

A certification of the sign design from a Florida registered engineer or architect when:

a.

A building sign is designed to project perpendicularly from the surface to which it is attached and the sign area exceeds 24 square feet; or

b.

A ground sign is more than ten feet in height and/or more than 32 square feet in size; in which case, the certified design shall include a specification of wind load factors.

An application for a sign permit shall be accompanied by a permit fee for each sign as specified by resolution adopted by the board of county commissioners. There shall be a no-fee permit required for signs painted on existing buildings.

(a)

Issuance. The planning and development services may issue a permit for the erection, alteration, or relocation of a sign only when the permit application is properly made; all required information has been provided; all fees have been paid as required; and, the proposed erection, alteration or relocation conforms with the provisions of this article. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article or the Putnam County Land Development Code, a sign permit application shall be acted upon by planning and development services within ten working days of receipt of a complete application.

(b)

Denial. A denial of a sign permit shall be provided to the applicant in writing, and shall include a brief written statement of the reasons for the denial.

(c)

Revocation and suspension. The planning and development services staff may, through written notice, suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this article whenever the permit is issued on the basis of fraud or a misstatement of fact.

(d)

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. No sign permit issued by the county for property within the jurisdiction of the state shall be considered valid without an appropriate permit from the state, where required.

(e)

Appeal from denial of permit. Appeals may be filed with planning and development services and heard in accord with appeal procedures of the zoning board of adjustment.

Any person erecting, altering, or relocating a sign shall notify the building department upon completion of the work for which permits are required.

(1)

Inspections. All ground signs shall be subject to a footing inspection, and all signs shall be subject to a final inspection to determine compliance with the applicable building code.

(2)

All signs with electrical equipment shall be subject to an electrical inspection to determine compliance with the applicable electric code.

(a)

Any party that desires a variance to construct or install a sign or signs other than as permitted in this article, must submit proper application for a variance under article IX, and that party's application shall be reviewed by the zoning board of adjustment pursuant to the procedural requirements of articles IX and XII.

(b)

In addition to the variance criteria in article IX, the application must be reviewed to determine whether or not the variance meets the purpose and intent statements in sections 45-671 and 45-672(b) of this article.

(a)

Enforcement.

(1)

The department may declare any sign owned, kept, displayed, or maintained by any person within the county contrary to the requirements of this article as a violation of this Code, and may issue a notice of violation. The notice of violation shall state, in writing, the reason or reasons why such sign, and the keeping, owning, maintenance, construction, and display or operation thereof, is unlawful under the terms of this article. It shall state the pre-set hearing date regarding the violation and the maximum potential fine for failure to abate the violation within the 30-day time period established in paragraph (2), below.

(2)

The notice of violation shall be issued in person or by certified mail to the owner of the sign, or property owner, if the owner of the sign is not immediately evident, and give him/her 30 days to abate the violation or appear before the codes enforcement board at a pre-set hearing date. Hearings regarding violations of this article shall be set on a date certain between 45 and 60 days after the date of issuance of the notice of violation.

(3)

If, after the 30-day period passes, the violation has not been abated, the codes enforcement board shall hold the hearing on the matter, at which time the alleged violator may present testimony on his/her behalf. If the codes enforcement board affirms the violation, it shall then determine the amount of the fine as established in paragraph (b), below, and order immediate abatement of the violation.

(4)

Removal of unlawful temporary signs. Any temporary sign not complying with the requirements of this article is illegal and subject to immediate removal. Upon notification from the county, the property owner shall cause the non-compliant sign to either come into compliance or be removed with 48 hours. If the county is unable to contact the property owner at the 911 address, notification to the occupant of the parcel where the sign is located shall constitute sufficient notice for purposes of this subsection. In the event of a failure by the owner to bring the sign into compliance or remove the sign within 48 hours, the department may elect to remove and impound the sign at the property owner's expense. A notice of violation pursuant to this subsection may be appealed to the code enforcement board pursuant to the procedures set forth in article XII, if a written notice of appeal is submitted to the director of the department by the property owner or the occupant of the parcel in question within the 48-hour time period.

(5)

Unsafe signs. If any sign becomes insecure or in danger of falling or otherwise unsafe in the opinion of the building official, the procedures provided in the building code regarding unsafe signs will be applied.

(b)

Penalty. Violation of any provision of this article is unlawful, and punishable by fine not to exceed $1,000.00 for each occurrence. The county may also seek to enforce any abatement action in the circuit court.

Unless otherwise provided in this article, all signs must comply with the following design, construction and location standards.

(a)

Compliance with building and electrical codes required. All signs, and the illumination thereof, shall be designed, constructed, erected and maintained in conformity with applicable provisions of the building and electrical codes adopted by Putnam County. These sign regulations are intended to complement the requirements of the building and electrical codes adopted by Putnam County. Wherever there is inconsistency between these regulations and the building or electrical code, the more stringent requirement shall apply.

(b)

Maintenance. All signs, including their supports, braces, guys and anchors, electrical parts and lighting fixtures, and all painted and display areas, shall be maintained in a safe condition, and shall present a neat and clean appearance. The vegetation around, in front of, behind, and underneath the base of ground signs for a distance of ten feet shall be neatly trimmed and free of unsightly weeds, rubbish and debris.

(c)

Signs shall not have any visible moving, revolving, or rotating parts or visible mechanical movement of any description or other visible movement or the appearance of movement achieved by electrical, electronic, or mechanical means, except for traditional barber poles and signs with automatic changeable message devices, subject to illumination standards, that can change the sign face through rotation of a multi-prism sign face. "Multi-prism sign face" means signs made with a series of triangular vertical section that turn and stop, or index, to show a pictures or messages in the same sign face area.

(d)

Signs shall not include projected images, or emit any sound, odor or visible matter such as smoke or steam.

(e)

Signs shall not resemble an official sign or marker erected by any governmental agency, or shall not by reason of location, position, shape or color, or copy conflict with the proper functioning of any traffic sign or signal, or be of a size, location, movement, content, color, or illumination that may be reasonably confused with or construed as, or conceal, a traffic-control device.

(f)

Signs shall not be attached to trees, fences or poles unless specifically allowed under article VIII, division 4 of this Code.

(a)

Signs shall not be of such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or impair the vision of any motorist, cyclist, or pedestrian using or entering a public way, or that are a hazard or a nuisance to occupants of any property because of glare or other characteristics. "Glare" means a sensation of brightness within the visual field that causes annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual performance and visibility.

(b)

No sign shall be erected, or any existing sign operated where illumination is either:

(1)

Directing beams of light at any residential use property; or

(2)

Of such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or impair the vision of any driver of any motor vehicle, cyclist, or pedestrian, or which interferes with any driver's operation of a motor vehicle.

(c)

No sign shall be erected, or any existing sign operated where illumination is not shielded either to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed at any portion of the traveled right-of-way, or to prevent any driver from seeing a sign's point light source.

(d)

All signs, except signs where the top of the sign is less than eight feet from the ground and less than 64 square feet in size or marquees, shall be top-lighted with the point light source shielded and aimed downward. A "marquee" as used in this article means a permanent roof-like shelter extending from part or all of the building face over a public right-of-way and constructed of some durable material such as metal, glass or plastic; typically used for places of entertainment such as theatres, arenas or meeting halls.

(e)

Signs with lighted changeable copy may be permitted subject to the following conditions:

(1)

The total portion of the sign with lighted changeable copy shall not exceed 15 square feet.

(2)

If the illuminated portion of the sign has copy that changes, the minimum time between changes shall be no less than ten seconds except for scrolling text.

(3)

No more than one such illuminated sign shall be placed on any one parcel.

(4)

For signs that are perpendicular to the street each side of the sign may have lighted changeable copy as stated in (1) above. For the purposes of this section, signs shall be considered perpendicular if they are generally 90 degrees to the road and their two faces are attached at one end and less than 30 degrees apart at the second end.

(f)

Strings of light bulbs used as a sign are prohibited, except for traditional holiday decorations.

(g)

Signs with illumination that may reasonably be confused with or construed as a traffic control device are prohibited.

(a)

Near street and driveway intersections. Signs in excess of two feet in height shall not be located within a clear visibility triangle, except signs erected on poles where the bottom edge of the sign face is greater than seven feet above the grade at the base of the supporting structure for the sign, and which meet all other requirements of this article. For the purposes of this article, "clear visibility triangle" means an area 25 feet deep along the street and driveway or two streets, connected by a straight line. Signs located within the clear visibility triangle in violation of this subsection prior to the effective date of this Code shall be treated as nonconforming signs.

(b)

In right-of-way. Unless otherwise stated in this article, all signs shall be a minimum of five feet from a public right-of-way. Supports for signs or sign structures shall not be placed in or upon a public right-of-way or public easement, except under the terms of a lease between the owner of the easement or right-of-way and the owner of the sign.

(c)

Rear and side yard setbacks. Unless otherwise stated in this article, all signs shall be a minimum of five feet from the side and the rear property line.

(d)

Blocking exits, fire escapes, etc. No sign or sign structure shall be erected that impedes use of any fire escape, emergency exit, or standpipe.

(e)

Obstructing ventilation. No sign shall be attached in any manner which will interfere with any opening required for ventilation, except that the signs may be erected in front of and may cover transom windows when not in violation of the provisions [of] the building or fire prevention codes.

(f)

Signs shall not be located where they will obstruct the vision or passage of pedestrians, cyclists, or motorists traveling on or entering public streets.

(g)

Signs shall not be located where they will obscure any traffic sign, device, or signal.

(a)

Over pedestrian ways. All signs over pedestrian ways shall provide a minimum of eight feet of clearance, and if the pedestrian way is owned by the public the minimum clearance shall be nine feet.

(b)

Over vehicular ways. All signs over vehicular ways shall provide a minimum of 14 feet of clearance.

(c)

Utility lines. Signs shall be located in such a way that they maintain horizontal and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors in accordance with relevant electrical code specifications, depending on voltage concerned. However, in no case shall a sign be installed closer than five feet horizontally or vertically from any conduit or public utility guy wire. No sign shall be erected which interferes with any underground or over-head utility lines as required by the National Electric Code and OSHA regulations.

(a)

Signs are allowed as indicated in this section. In addition, certain signs are prohibited by article VIII, division 5 and certain signs are exempted from regulation by article VIII, division 6.

(b)

If a sign is not specifically listed as allowed, it is prohibited unless the planning and development services director determines the type of sign is similar to a listed, allowed or exempt sign. If the planning and development services director determines the sign is similar to a listed, allowed or exempt sign, the regulations pertaining to that sign shall apply.

Billboards are signs which are used for outdoor advertising directed at activities, services, and goods available off-premises or as a display for any non-advertising message which is not prohibited by article VIII, division 5 of this Code. Billboards are allowed subject to the following requirements:

(1)

Zoning and future land use restrictions. The zoning categories listed below must be located in areas designated as urban service, urban reserve, commercial, industrial, or rural center on the county's future land use map.

a.

Billboards are only allowed on property zoned C-2, C-3, C-4, IL or IH, subject to meeting all the requirements listed below.

b.

Billboards are allowed in PUD zoning on sites designated for commercial or industrial development and subject to meeting all the requirements listed below.

(2)

Roadway orientation. Billboards may be erected within 660 feet of federal roads, state roads, and county roads designated as collectors or arterials in the county's comprehensive plan.

(3)

Maximum number. The number of billboards allowed shall not exceed the number of existing legally permitted billboards on the effective date of this Code. Provided, however, a billboard owner shall be allowed two new conforming billboards when that owner removes an existing nonconforming billboard within three years of the effective date of this Code. Otherwise no new billboards are allowed unless an existing billboard is removed and the new one meets all standards of the code.

(4)

Permits required. An application for a permit to erect a billboard shall meet the requirements of article VIII, division 2 of this Code. When a billboard is proposed for location on a state or federal highway, both a county permit and a state permit are required. The two permits must be applied for concurrently and the county and FDOT shall coordinate their review processes.

(5)

Design and construction standards. The following standards must be met in addition to the requirements of article VIII, division 2 and article VIII, division 3 of this Code.

a.

Signs must be erected on supports that meet applicable building code requirements and such support systems have a galvanized finish or must be painted a dull blue, black, green, brown or gray.

b.

No portion of the sign structure shall be visible above the sign face. All visible framing must have a galvanized finish or it must be painted a dull blue, black, green, brown or gray.

c.

All faces must be made of metal, wood or plastic or otherwise meet the applicable building code requirements. Any trim on the face must be made of wood or metal that must be painted to blend with the sign face.

d.

Double stacked billboards are prohibited.

(6)

Maximum number of sign faces. A billboard may have a single face or two faces provided the two faces have advertising surfaces of equal size and shape, excluding embellishments. Billboards with two faces must comply with either of the following:

a.

Parallel sign faces must be erected on a common support and the back of the faces must be within six feet of each other.

b.

V-shaped billboards are allowed, provided the internal angle at the apex of the V is not greater than 60 degrees and the billboard facings are not separated by more than three feet at the apex of the V.

(7)

Maximum size of a sign face.

a.

A sign face shall not exceed 400 square feet plus no more than an additional ten percent of the sign area for embellishments. "Embellishments" means any letters, figures, characters, or other representations in cutouts, or irregular forms, or similar designs which contain a portion of the advertising message and is attached to or superimposed upon the sign and extends beyond the sign's border.

b.

No sign face shall have a height greater than 30 feet or a length greater than 60 feet.

(8)

Maximum height. The maximum height of a billboard shall be 35 feet measured from the elevation of the crown of the adjacent road to the highest point of the sign. An applicant may request a variance to the height limitation under section 45-697 up to a maximum height of 45 feet, but no higher. The applicant shall provide an appropriate bucket-lift truck to allow county staff access to the sign for purpose of measuring the height.

(9)

Minimum separation between billboards. No billboard shall be located within 1,500 feet of another billboard on the same side of the highway. The distance shall be measured along the center line of the roadway abutting the billboards.

(10)

Minimum setbacks from property lines and structures. The required setback distances below shall be measured from the closest edge of the sign to the property line or closest edge of a structure.

a.

Fifteen feet from the R-O-W line or front property line except near intersections of streets and driveways that are subject to the requirements of section 45-714 of this Code.

b.

Ten feet from side property lines.

c.

Ten feet from the rear property line.

d.

One hundred feet from any property zoned residential.

e.

One hundred feet from property lines of any public park or reservation; municipal, county, state or federal building; state or national forest; cemetery; religious institution; or any public or private school.

f.

Ten feet from any structure including non-billboard signs.

g.

Billboards located on federal-aid primary roads must meet F.S. ch. 479 setback requirements in addition to those listed above.

(11)

Owner identification. All billboards erected, operated, or maintained within the county shall have displayed upon them, the owner's name in such a manner as to provide readable visibility from the abutting road right-of-way during daylight hours.

Construction signs are temporary, non-illuminated signs which denote one or more of the following: Owner, architect, financial institution, general contractor, subcontractors, or any statement pertaining to a building or project under construction, and are located on the construction site.

(1)

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning district.

(2)

Maximum number. One per construction site.

(3)

Permits are not required. Signs must meet the standards provided in article VIII, division 3 of this Code.

(4)

Limited duration. The sign shall not be erected earlier than 60 days prior to the commencement of construction and must be removed within 15 days after construction has ceased or a certificate of occupancy has been issued, whichever is earlier.

(5)

Minimum setbacks.

a.

Five feet from the front property line except near intersections of streets and driveways which are subject to the requirements of section 45-714 of this Code.

b.

Ten feet from all other property lines.

(6)

Maximum height. No sign shall exceed ten feet in height.

(7)

Number and size of sign faces.

a.

Either one face or two parallel faces on a common support are allowed.

b.

A sign face in a residential zoning district shall not exceed six square feet.

c.

A sign face in any non-residential zoning district shall not exceed 32 square feet.

Non-illuminated signs which provide direction, but do not include advertisements. These signs are located on the premises of a developed site and typically include directions to phones, restrooms, walkways, and parking lot entrances and exits.

(1)

Zoning. Allowed in A and AE for commercial, industrial, and public facility development including churches; R-3 and R-4 for multi-family development and churches; RMH for mobile home parks; GU, CPO, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, IL, IH, Mining, and PUD zoning districts.

(2)

Maximum number. The number of signs shall be limited to the minimum amount necessary to effectively provide the intended direction.

(3)

Permits are not required. Signs must meet the standards provided in article VIII, division 3 of this Code.

(4)

Minimum setbacks.

a.

Five feet from the front property line except near intersections of streets and driveways which are subject to the requirements of section 45-714 of this Code.

b.

Ten feet from all other property lines.

(5)

Maximum height. No sign shall exceed eight feet in height.

(6)

Number and size of sign faces.

a.

Either one face or two parallel faces on a common support are allowed.

b.

Maximum sign area is four square feet.

(a)

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning.

(b)

Number. No more than three flags or insignias of religious, charitable, fraternal or other organizations, other than flags of existing governmental entities, may be displayed on any one parcel of land. Flags which are used to provide an advertising message are subject to the standards under on-premises ground signs.

(c)

Permits not required.

(d)

Flagpoles must be erected and flags must be attached in a manner which does not pose a hazard to people or structures.

(e)

Size. With the exception of American flags, the maximum distance from top to bottom of any flag shall be 20 percent of the total height of the flag pole, or in the absence of a flag pole, 20 percent of the distance from the top of the flag or insignia to the ground.

(a)

Each dwelling may have displayed one name plate indicating the name of the occupant, not exceeding two square feet in area for each occupancy. The nameplate does not require a permit, but must be mounted flat against the surface of the dwelling.

(b)

Building identification signs. Memorial signs or tablets, historical plaques, names of buildings and dates of erection, when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials and attached flat against the surface of a building are allowed in any zoning and do not require a permit.

(c)

House numbers which do not exceed two square feet in area are allowed and do not require a permit.

An on-premises building sign is a sign displayed upon or attached to any part of the exterior of a building, including walls, doors, canopy and roof slopes of 45 degrees or steeper. These signs identify or advertise any aspect of the business or activity on the premises, or provide a non-advertising message not prohibited by article VIII, division 5 of this Code. Building signs include marquees and under canopy signs.

(1)

Zoning.

a.

Allowed in GU, CPO, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, IL, IH, and mining subject to meeting the applicable requirements listed below.

b.

Allowed in A and AE zoning on commercial, industrial, and public facility sites including churches as permitted by zoning, or for sale of products, produce or animals normally allowed by the zoning and subject to meeting the applicable requirements listed below.

c.

Allowed in PUD zoning on sites designated for commercial, public facility, or industrial development and subject to meeting the applicable requirements listed below.

d.

Allowed in residential zoning for public facilities, including churches, and for home occupations. Home occupations are limited to one non-illuminated sign which shall not exceed two square feet in area, and must be mounted flat against the wall at a position not more than two feet from the main entrance to the residence.

(2)

Maximum number. There is no specific maximum as signs are limited by total area and individual area.

(3)

Permits required. An application for an on-premises building sign shall meet the requirements of article VIII, division 2 of this Code.

(4)

Design and construction standards. The following standards must be met in addition to the requirements of article VIII, division 2 and article VIII, division 3 of this Code.

a.

A sign shall not extend above the top or side edge of the surface to which it is attached, nor disrupt a major architectural feature of the building.

b.

A sign structure shall not be separated by more than six inches from the surface to which it is attached.

(5)

Maximum number of sign faces. Each sign is limited to one sign face.

(6)

Maximum total area of sign faces and maximum area of a sign face.

a.

In GU, CPO, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, IL, IH, and PUD zoning, the total area of all sign faces shall be allocated by occupancy of the site.

1.

Each occupancy shall be allowed a total sign area determined by multiplying one and one-half square feet times the number of linear feet of building frontage that occupancy has along the abutting, improved, road right-of-way.

2.

Each site that includes a free-standing canopy is allowed additional sign area which is determined by multiplying one and one-half square feet times the number of linear feet of canopy along the abutting, improved, road right-of-way. A free-standing canopy is a permanent structure open on all sides and used for cover for an activity associated with the use of the site (for example, a gas station island canopy) and constructed of some durable material such as metal, glass, or plastic, or non-rigid materials supported by a frame. The additional sign area can be utilized only on the free-standing canopy.

3.

Places of public entertainment such as theaters, arenas, or meeting halls are allowed an additional sign area for marquees. This area is determined by multiplying three square feet times the number of linear feet of canopy on which the marquee will be placed.

4.

No individual sign face shall exceed 125 square feet in area.

5.

If the building includes an attached canopy, one under canopy sign not to exceed six square feet in area is allowed per occupancy.

b.

In mining, any residential, A and AE zoning the total sign area allowed is 125 square feet per site. No individual sign face shall exceed 32 square feet.

(7)

Maximum height. The height of a sign shall not exceed the height of the highest structural member of roof at the leading edge of the roof on the building on which it is attached.

A ground sign is a sign that is supported by one or more columns, upright poles, or braces extended from the ground or from an object on the ground, or that is erected on the ground, where no part of the sign is attached to any part of a building. These signs identify or advertise any aspect of the business or activity on the premises, or provide a non-advertising message not prohibited by article VIII, division 5 of this Code.

(1)

Zoning.

a.

Allowed in GU, CPO, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, IL, IH, and mining zoning subject to meeting the applicable requirements listed below.

b.

Allowed in A and AE zoning on commercial, industrial and public facility sites including churches as permitted by zoning, or for sale of products, produce or animals normally allowed by the zoning and subject to meeting the applicable requirements listed below.

c.

Allowed in PUD zoning on sites designated for commercial or industrial development and subject to meeting the applicable requirements listed below.

d.

Allowed in residential zoning for public facilities including churches.

(2)

Maximum number. The greater of the following:

a.

One per entrance driveway which provides access to the property from a federal, state or county road; or

b.

One per 100 feet of road frontage, but no more than five using this alternative. Where any portion of frontage is a fraction of 100, the fraction shall be increased to the next higher whole number divisible by 100 feet if the fraction is one-half or larger and to the next lower whole number if the fraction is less than one-half.

(3)

Permits required. An application for an on-premises ground sign shall meet the requirements of article VIII, division 2 of this Code.

(4)

Design and construction standards. In addition to meeting the standards in article VIII, division 2 and article VIII, division 3 of this Code, any ground sign in excess of 32 square feet of sign area or over ten feet off the ground shall meet the wind load requirements of the building code adopted by the county.

(5)

Maximum number of sign faces. Either one face or two parallel faces on a common support are allowed.

(6)

Maximum size of a sign face. A sign face shall not exceed 150 square feet except in A and AE zoning where a sign face shall not exceed 32 square feet.

(7)

Maximum height. No sign shall exceed 25 feet in height, except that signs for multiple occupancy sites that are used to advertise more than one of the occupancies may be 35 feet in height.

(8)

Minimum setbacks from property lines and structures. The required setback distances below shall be measured from the closest edge of the sign to the property line or closest edge of a structure.

a.

Five feet from the R-O-W boundary line or front property line, whichever is greater; except near intersections of streets and driveways which are subject to the requirements of section 45-714 of this Code.

b.

Ten feet from side property lines.

c.

Ten feet from the rear property line.

d.

Ten feet from any structure including other signs.

(9)

Street numbers. At least one sign shall include street address numbers of a size which is visible and legible from the street or road right-of-way.

(a)

Generally.

(1)

The purpose of this section is to allow one off-premise ground sign for a commercial use on land owned in common ownership as the on-premise ground sign, and adhering to all other signage standards provided for on-premise ground signs in section 45-738(3) through (8) of this Code.

(a)

In general. A political campaign sign is a temporary sign specifically advertising a candidate or stating a position regarding an issue that will appear on any primary, general or special election ballot in the unincorporated area of the county. A candidate is a person who has qualified for placement on an election ballot in the unincorporated area of the county. Political messages, including campaign messages, on signs authorized or exempt under other provisions of this Code are not restricted by this section.

(b)

Zoning and location. Allowed in any zoning, subject to the following:

(1)

Signs shall be placed on private property only with the consent of the property owner.

(2)

Signs shall not be placed on any road right-of-way, utility easement or on any government property.

(3)

Signs are not subject to property line setback requirements, but shall meet the following standards:

a.

Near intersections of streets and driveways the signs must meet the requirements of section 45-714 of this Code.

b.

Signs shall not be placed in areas where they will interfere with safe sight distances for pedestrian, cyclists, or motor vehicular traffic.

(c)

Number. No limit.

(d)

[Permits not required.] Permits are not required for these temporary signs unless there is an electrical connection to them. Signs must be constructed, erected and maintained in a manner that does not pose a hazard to people or structures. If illuminated, the sign must meet the illumination standards in article VIII, division 3 of this Code. Political messages, including campaign messages, on signs authorized under other provisions of this Code are subject to permitting requirements.

(e)

Limited duration.

(1)

Signs may be erected up to 50 days before the first primary election, if the candidate or issue is qualified for the election ballot pursuant to state law.

(2)

The winners of the primary election are allowed to have their signs remain or erect new signs in the period between the first primary election and general election. The general election candidates may erect signs during this period.

(3)

All signs shall be removed within 15 days of a candidate's or issue's withdrawal, loss, or victory in an election.

(f)

Number and size of sign faces.

(1)

One face or two parallel faces on a common support are allowed.

(2)

A sign face in a residential zoning district shall not exceed six square feet.

(3)

A sign face in any non-residential zoning district shall not exceed 32 square feet.

(g)

Height.

(1)

Signs in a residential zoning district shall not exceed eight feet in height.

(2)

Signs in any non-residential zoning district shall not exceed ten feet in height.

(h)

Removal of campaign signs in violation of county regulations.

(1)

Removal of signs in violation of county regulations shall be the responsibility of the candidate.

(2)

Signs in violation of county regulations may be removed by the county under the following conditions:

a.

The county shall notify the candidate and direct the sign to be removed; and

b.

If the sign is not removed within 48 hours of notification, a county codes enforcement officer is authorized to remove a sign.

(a)

In general. In addition to any other allowed signs, a sign is allowed which does not include any advertising or other message, but which identifies any of the following land uses or similar uses: apartment complexes, farms, group living facilities, hospitals, hunting clubs, industrial parks, mobile home parks, neighborhoods, nursing homes, office complexes, ranches, shopping centers, and subdivisions.

(b)

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning which allows the land uses listed in subsection (a) above, or any similar use.

(c)

Maximum number and general location of signs. A maximum of two signs are allowed to be located near any of the project entrances which provide access to the use from a federal, state, or county road.

(d)

Permits required. An application for a project identification sign shall meet the requirements of article VIII, division 2, but in all cases a plan for the sign must be approved by the planning and development services director. When reviewing an application or permit for the placement of such signs, the planning and development services director shall consider the location of public utilities, sidewalks and future street widening.

(e)

Design and construction standards. The signs may be ground signs, building signs, or may be incorporated into a wall, fence or other structure, but otherwise must meet the requirements of article VIII, division 2 and article VIII, division 3 of this Code.

(f)

Maximum size and number of sign faces.

(1)

The size of an individual sign face shall not exceed 32 square feet.

(2)

One face or two parallel faces are allowed on a common support.

(g)

Minimum setbacks.

(1)

Five feet from the front property line except near intersections of streets and driveways which are subject to the requirements of section 45-714 of this Code.

(2)

Ten feet from all other property lines.

(3)

Ten feet from any structure including other signs.

(h)

Maximum height.

(1)

Signs in a residential zoning district shall not exceed eight feet in height.

(2)

Signs in any non-residential zoning district shall not exceed ten feet in height, except for shopping center identification signs which are subject to the height restrictions for on-premises ground signs.

Public information signs provide messages that are necessary for the protection of the public health, safety and welfare, or are of general interest to the community. The following signs are allowed as public information signs:

(1)

Governmental signs for control of traffic including street signs, and for any other regulatory purposes including signs warning of danger or hazard.

a.

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning district.

b.

Permits are not required. Any type of sign is allowed and may be illuminated or animated, as needed.

c.

Height of sign and size of sign face. Sized as necessary to meet the intended purpose.

d.

Location and number. May be erected on public or private property with permission from the owner. Public property includes public right-of-way. Setbacks do not apply. No limit on the number.

(2)

Notice bulletin boards. Outdoor bulletin boards not over 32 square feet may be located on the premises of a medical, public charitable or religious institutions without a permit.

(3)

Legal notices and official instruments. These are signs and notices posted or erected by public officials carrying out county, state or federal law. No permits are required and the type, location, size, and number are as specified in the applicable laws.

(4)

Public directional signs. Public directional signs provide directions to governmental agencies, schools, churches, community centers, hospitals, and other charitable or philanthropic, not for profit organizations.

a.

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning district.

b.

Permits are not required.

c.

Height. Maximum height is eight feet.

d.

Size of sign face. Sign face shall not exceed 16 square feet.

e.

Location. Located off-site and may be erected on public or private property with permission from the owner. Public property includes public right-of-way.

f.

Number. The maximum number for any use is six, with no more than one at any location.

(5)

Railroad crossing signs. Signs that warn of a railroad crossing may be located in any zoning district on public or private property with permission from the owner. Public property includes public right-of-way. No permits are required and any number of signs of any size that is needed to sufficiently warn of the crossing may be allowed.

(6)

Time-temperature-date signs. These are signs that provide time, temperature, date, weather or similar information.

a.

Zoning. Allowed in CPO, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, IL, IH and PUD districts.

b.

Number and type of sign. A single time-temperature-date sign for any one parcel is allowed as a ground or building sign, and is not subject to the general prohibition on changing signs, but must otherwise comply with article VIII, division 2 and article VIII, division 3 of this Code. These signs may only display numerical information in an easily comprehensible way and shall be properly maintained. They shall not exceed a sign face area of 36 square feet, and if part of the area is used for advertising the sign will be counted towards the allowable sign area for the site. A time-temperature-date sign shall be at least 1,500 feet from any existing time-temperature-date sign fronting the same road.

c.

Permits required. Meet the requirements of article VIII, division 2 of this Code.

(7)

Utility signs. Unless otherwise regulated by the state or federal governments, public utility signs that identify the location of underground utility lines and facilities, high voltage lines and facilities, and other utility facilities and appurtenances are allowed as follows:

a.

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning district.

b.

Permits are not required.

c.

Height. Maximum height is six feet.

d.

Size of sign face. Sign face shall not exceed two square feet.

e.

Location. May be erected on public or private property with permission from the owner. Public property includes public right-of-way.

(8)

Warning signs to indicate the dangers of trespassing, swimming, animals or similar hazards, or to warn against dumping on property are allowed subject to the following:

a.

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning district.

b.

Permits are not required.

c.

Height. Maximum height is six feet.

d.

Size of sign face. Sign face shall not exceed two square feet.

e.

Location. Signs must be placed on the property to which the warning applies, and the signs may be mounted on trees, posts or fences. Signs must be separated by a minimum of 100 feet.

(9)

Highway safety memorial markers may be placed within a county right-of-way to memorialize people who have died as a result of a vehicle-related crash, subject to the following:

a.

Requests for memorial markers shall be submitted to the public works director. Application forms are available from the public works office or the county administrators office.

b.

Requests shall be made by a family member or with the approval of a family member.

c.

The markers shall be constructed and installed by the public works department and paid for by the county. Exact location of the marker will be at the discretion of the public works director.

d.

The marker will be allowed to stay in place for a minimum of one year and there shall be no activities while the marker is in place that could pose a safety hazard to the public or a violation of F.S. ch. 316, concerning stopping, standing, parking or obstructing traffic.

Real estate signs are temporary, non-illuminated signs specifically indicating that an owner, either personally or through an agent, is actively attempting to sell, rent or lease real property. Real estate advertising on signs authorized under other provisions of this Code is not restricted by this section.

(1)

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning.

(2)

Number. One sign is allowed on-premises for each road frontage, water frontage, or golf course frontage of the property that is for sale, rent or lease. Open house signs may also be located off-premises on private property with the owner's permission during the period of the open house.

(3)

Permits are not required for these temporary signs, but the signs are subject to the standards provided in article VIII, division 3 of this Code. Real estate advertising on signs authorized under other provisions of this Code is subject to permitting requirements.

(4)

Limited duration. Signs are allowed when the property is being actively marketed for sale, rent or lease, and must be removed within seven days after the sale, rental or lease has been accomplished.

(5)

Signs are not subject to property line setback requirements, but shall meet the following standards:

a.

Near intersections of streets and driveways the signs must meet the requirements of section 45-714 of this Code.

b.

Signs shall not be placed in areas where they will interfere with safe sight distances for pedestrian, cyclists, or motor vehicular traffic.

(6)

Number and size of sign faces.

a.

One face or two parallel faces on a common support are allowed.

b.

A sign face in a residential zoning district shall not exceed eight square feet.

c.

A sign face in any non-residential zoning district shall not exceed 32 square feet.

(7)

Height.

a.

Signs in a residential zoning district shall not exceed eight feet in height.

b.

Signs in any non-residential zoning district shall not exceed ten feet in height.

Special event signs are temporary, non-illuminated announcement or advertising signs which do not require permits from the county, and which must comply with the restrictions provided below.

(1)

The following special event signs are allowed:

a.

Grand opening. One on-premises sign is allowed to indicate the grand opening of a business or other activity. Such message may be displayed for a period not exceeding 30 days within the first 90 days of the business opening or the activity beginning.

b.

New business or business location. One on-premises sign is allowed to indicate the existence of a new business, or a business in a new location, if such business has no permanent signs. Such message may be displayed for a period of not more than 30 days or until installation of permanent signs, whichever occurs first.

c.

Special sales or events for a business. Two on-premises signs are allowed per sale or event not to exceed a cumulative total of 120 days per calendar year. Signs must be registered with the county one business day prior to the event, signs must be removed immediately after the event, and a cumulative log must be kept for the calendar year by the person responsible for events.

d.

Signs to announce or advertise temporary uses such as fairs, community festivals, carnivals, circuses, revivals, sporting events, or any public, charitable, educational or religious event or function. Signs may be erected 30 days prior to the special event and shall be removed within five days after the special event. Signs are allowed in any zoning district and are subject to the following:

1.

One sign is allowed on the premises where the temporary use is located except that the board of county commissioners may allow more signs by resolution or in a manner specifically described in the context of a temporary use permit.

2.

Off-premises signs are allowed at a rate of one per parcel with the property owner's permission and restricted in size as follows:

i.

Thirty-two square feet per sign face in non-residential zoning.

ii.

Six square per sign face in residential zoning.

e.

Garage or yard sale signs are allowed in any zoning district subject to the following conditions:

1.

One garage or yard sale sign not to exceed six square feet may be located on the premises where the sale is conducted, provided it is not placed on the premises more than one day before the sale begins, and the sign shall be removed at the end of the sale.

2.

One off-premises garage or yard sale sign not to exceed six square feet may be located, subject to approval by the property owner, at the end of the street on which the site of the sale is located, or at the entrance to the subdivision in which the site of the sale is located. An off-premises sale sign can only be in place while the sale is in progress and must be removed at the end of the sale.

(2)

Zoning. Allowed in any zoning for the uses specified in subsection (1) above.

(3)

Construction standards. Temporary special event signs may be constructed to the standards specified in article VIII, division 3 of this Code, or, except for garage or yard sale signs, may be any of the following:

a.

Banners or pennants. Must be maintained in a state of good repair. Banners that are frayed, torn, or otherwise in a state of disrepair must be removed.

b.

Anchored balloons.

1.

Balloon signs shall not be greater than 96 cubic feet in area.

2.

The balloon sign shall be properly anchored to the ground and cannot be higher than 35 feet in the air.

3.

The balloon sign shall be secured in such a manner so as not to become unattached or become a safety hazard, and shall be a minimum of 20 feet from any roadway.

c.

Flags other than those allowed by section 45-735 of this Code.

(4)

Size of sign face. A sign face shall not exceed 32 square feet in area except for the following:

a.

Exceptions may be granted by the board of county commissioners for larger special event banners for the temporary uses described in subsection (1)d. above, in the context of a temporary use permit, when the banner is to be erected over right-of-way (R-O-W) subject to approval by the owner or the agency having jurisdiction over the R-O-W.

b.

Signs for temporary uses shall be limited to the size specified in subsection (1)d. above, and garage sale and yard sale signs shall be limited to the size specified in subsection (1)e. above.

(5)

Setbacks. Special event signs must be set back five feet from any property line. Exceptions may be granted by the board of county commissioners for the special event signs described in subsection (1)d. to allow banners over right-of-way subject to approval by the owner of the R-O-W.

(6)

Height. Unless specified otherwise in this section the following height standards apply:

a.

Signs in any residential zoning district shall not exceed eight feet in height.

b.

Signs in any non-residential zoning district shall not exceed ten feet in height.

(a)

Generally.

(1)

The purpose of this section is to allow commercial and industrial uses in isolated locations an opportunity to have signs directed at the traveling public. The county commission finds that there is an important public benefit in promoting the success of all commercial and institutional uses, including those in isolated locations, and that allowing such isolated uses a limited number of off-site signs will help promote such success.

(2)

Commercial and industrial uses within unincorporated Putnam County may apply for up to three isolated business signs if the industrial or commercial use is located on a county road.

(b)

Standards. Isolated business signs shall meet the following standards:

(1)

One sign with a sign face area not exceeding 32 square feet. If the sign is located perpendicular to the adjacent road, each side may be a sign face not to exceed 32 square feet. For the purposes of this article signs shall be considered perpendicular if they are generally 90 degrees to the roadway and their two faces are attached at one end and less than 30 degrees apart at the second end.

(2)

The height of the sign shall not exceed eight feet.

(3)

The sign shall be no closer than one-fourth mile in any direction from a billboard or other isolated business sign permitted under these sign regulations.

(4)

The sign shall be located on private property in an A zoning classification where the residential density allowed is no more than one unit per five acres.

(5)

The sign shall not be located adjacent to a state or federal highway.

(6)

Minimum standards for signs:

a.

If the sign is put on material that is subject to deterioration from the weather, said material shall be properly weather protected.

b.

Lettering on the sign shall be placed on by stenciling or other similar method. The building official may accept alternative methods if the overall quality of the sign is maintained.

(c)

Procedures.

(1)

An application for an isolated business sign shall be made to the director of planning services on a form to be provided by the department.

(2)

The application shall be accompanied by a site plan and sufficient information showing compliance with the above standards, including the location of the sign, distances from property lines, and the locations of any points of egress and ingress within 100 feet of the sign.

(3)

If the proposed location of the sign is owned by an entity other than the applicant, a letter giving written approval to the applicant from the owner of the parcel shall be provided.

(4)

If approved by the director, a building permit shall then be required for the sign.

It shall be unlawful to erect, cause to be erected, maintain or cause to be maintained any sign that is not expressly authorized or exempted by this article as determined by the county planning and development services director according to section 45-731 of this Code.

The following signs are expressly prohibited:

(1)

Blank temporary signs or signs designed as temporary signs that have any lighting on them whether or not they are being used as a temporary or permanent sign. This includes the classic lighted temporary sign on four legs with or without an arrow at the top.

(2)

Signs that involve the use of live animals.

(3)

Signs that contain any lighting or control mechanism that causes unreasonable interference with radio, television, airline traffic or other communication signals.

(4)

Signs that are painted, pasted, or printed on any curbstone, flagstone, pavement, or any portion of any sidewalk or street, except house numbers and traffic control signs.

(5)

Vehicle signs with a total sign area on any vehicle in excess of ten square feet, when the vehicle:

a.

Is parked for more than 60 consecutive minutes within 100 feet of any street right-of-way;

b.

Is visible from the street right-of-way; and

c.

Is not regularly used in the conduct of the business advertised on the vehicle. A vehicle used primarily for advertising a business or activity near where the vehicle is parked, shall not be considered a vehicle used in the conduct of the business.

(6)

Signs displaying copy that is harmful to minors. "Harmful to minors" as used in this article means, with regard to sign content, any description or representation, in whatever form, of nudity, sexual conduct, or sexual excitement, when it:

a.

Predominately appeals to the prurient, shameful, or morbid interest of minors;

b.

Is patently offensive to contemporary standards in the adult community as a whole with respect to what is suitable material for minors; and

c.

Taken as a whole, is without serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors.

(7)

Signs that advertise nude or semi-nude activities prohibited by Putnam County Ordinance 84-1, and any subsequent amendments thereto.

(8)

Abandoned signs that no longer correctly direct or exhort any person, advertise a bona fide business, lessor, owner, product, or activity conducted or product available on the premises where such a sign is displayed.

(9)

Portable or mobile signs. This type of sign was allowed as a temporary sign under the previous sign regulations and required a permit to be allowed for 90 days. Any of these signs now located in the county are illegal and must be removed or meet current standards within 90 days of the effective date of this Code.

(10)

Balloon signs that are more than 24 square feet or more than ten feet in height are prohibited.

(11)

Signs that flash, move, scintillate, blink, flicker, or vary in intensity except as otherwise permitted in this article.

Unless otherwise indicated below the following signs are exempt from the operation of these sign regulations, including the requirement that a permit be obtained, provided they are not placed or constructed so as to create a hazard of any kind and are not prohibited by article VIII, division 5 of this Code:

(1)

Signs that are not designed or located so as to be visible from any street or adjoining property, provided that such signs comply with the structural, electrical, and material specifications as set forth in this article. Electrical permits may be required as determined by the building official.

(2)

Decorative flags and bunting for a celebration, convention, or commemoration of significance to the entire community when authorized by the Putnam County Commission for a prescribed period of time.

(3)

Holiday lights, decorations, and signs, provided the signs are of a decorative nature, clearly incidental, and customarily associated with any national or state holiday.

(4)

Window signs and merchandise displays behind storefront windows so long as no part of the sign or display moves or contains flashing lights which present a hazard to pedestrians, cyclists or motorists.

(5)

Signs incorporated into machinery or equipment by a manufacturer or distributor, which identify or advertise only the product or service dispensed by the machine or equipment, such as signs customarily affixed to vending machines, newspaper racks, telephone booths, and gasoline pumps.

(6)

Signs on vehicles. Signs which identify a business, person, or product, and is not used in a manner prohibited by article VIII, division 5 of this Code. Advertising and identifying signs located on taxicabs, buses, trailers, trucks, vehicle manufacturing and dealer identification signs, or vehicle bumpers are exempt.

(7)

Works of art that do not constitute advertising.

(8)

Signs carried by a person.

(9)

Religious symbols or displays.

(10)

One sign per parcel providing political or ideological statements other than the political signs regulated under article VIII, division 4 of this Code is allowed as a temporary sign provided it does not include an advertising message and is not prohibited by article VIII, division 5 of this Code.

a.

A sign in residential zoning shall not exceed an area of six square feet or a height of eight feet.

b.

A sign in non-residential zoning shall not exceed an area of 32 square feet or a height of ten feet.

(11)

Signs placed upon benches, bus shelters or waste receptacles, as authorized in writing pursuant to F.S. §§ 337.407 and 337.408.

Unless otherwise stated for a particular type of sign, setbacks will be measured as follows:

(1)

The minimum setback between a sign and a structure, or a sign and another sign shall be measured from the closest edge of the sign to the closest edge of the structure or other sign.

(2)

The minimum setback between a sign and a property line shall be measured from the closest edge of the sign to the closest edge of the property line.

Unless otherwise stated for a particular type of sign, sign or sign face area will be measured as follows:

(1)

Generally. Any reference to sign area or sign face area means the part of the sign, including frame, trim and background, which contains the message or informative contents, but excludes the necessary supports or uprights on which the sign may be placed.

(2)

Special situations.

a.

Where a sign is composed of letters or pictures attached directly to a wall, facade, window, door, or canopy, and the letters or pictures are not enclosed by a border or trimming, the sign area shall be the area within the smallest rectangle, parallelogram, triangle, circle or semicircle, the sides of which touch the extreme points of the letters or pictures.

b.

If the sign consists of more than one section or module, all areas will be totaled.

c.

Any irregularly shaped sign's area shall be computed using the actual sign face surface except where a sign is in the form of a three-dimensional object (i.e. an advertising balloon), the area shall be determined by drawing a square, rectangle, parallelogram, triangle, circle or semicircle, the sides of which touch the extreme points or edges of the projected image of the sign and multiplying that area by two. The "projected image" is that image created by tracing the largest possible two-dimensional outline of the sign.

Unless otherwise stated for a particular type of sign, the height of the sign shall be measured as the vertical distance from the finished grade of the closest driveway, parking lot, non-elevated street, or other vehicular use area to the highest point of the sign.

A nonconforming sign is any sign which was lawfully erected and maintained within Putnam County prior to the effective date of this Code and any amendments thereto, but which is now prohibited by or does not conform to the requirements of this article.

A nonconforming sign may be continued and shall be maintained in good condition as required by this article, but it shall not be:

(1)

Structurally changed to another nonconforming sign, but its pictorial content may be changed.

(2)

Structurally altered to prolong the life of the sign. If sign becomes a safety hazard, it shall be removed or upgraded to meet the requirements of this article within 30 days or less from the date the owner of the sign becomes aware of this hazardous condition. "Owner," as used in this paragraph, includes the person or entity responsible for operating, maintaining or otherwise making use of the sign.

(3)

Altered in any manner that increases the degree of nonconformity.

(4)

Expanded.

(5)

Re-established after damage or destruction if the estimated cost of reconstruction exceeds 35 percent of the appraised replacement cost as determined by the planning and development services director after review of cost information provided by contractors authorized under this article to permit and erect signs.

(6)

Continued in use when a conforming sign or sign structure is erected on the same parcel or unit. See also section 45-813(c)(6) and section 45-813(d)(5) of this Code regarding new and replacement signs on a parcel with a nonconforming use.

(7)

Continued in use when the structure housing the occupancy is demolished or requires renovations the cost of which exceeds 50 percent of the assessed value of the structure.

(8)

Continued in use after the structure housing the occupancy has been vacant for 90 days or longer, except that permanent signs applicable to a business temporarily suspended because of a change of ownership or management of the business need not be removed unless the property remains vacant for a period of 180 days or more.

A permit from the state or federal government for signs that are nonconforming to county standards, which are located along a state highway or a federal interstate or primary aid highway, does not, by itself, relieve the property owner from the provisions of this article that require removal of such a nonconforming sign.