Raymore City Zoning Code
CHAPTER 435
Signage
§ 435.010 Purpose And Intent.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
To encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication for businesses, organizations and individuals in Raymore;
B.
To provide a means of way-finding in the community, thus reducing traffic confusion and congestion;
C.
To provide for adequate business identification, advertising, and communication;
D.
To prohibit signs of such excessive size and number that they obscure one (1) another to the detriment of the economic and social well-being of the City of Raymore;
E.
To protect the safety and welfare of the public by minimizing hazards to pedestrian and vehicular traffic;
F.
To preserve property values by preventing unsightly and chaotic development that has a blighting influence upon the community;
G.
To differentiate among those signs that, because of their location, may distract drivers on public streets and those that may provide information to them while they remain in their cars but out of active traffic;
H.
To minimize the possible adverse effects of signs on nearby public and private property; and
I.
To implement the goals and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan.
§ 435.020 Applicability.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
Generally. This Chapter applies to all signs that are visible from a public right-of-way, adjacent property, or outdoor areas of public property. No signs shall be erected, placed, displayed, or maintained in any district or property within the City, except as specifically allowed in this Section.
B.
Message and Content Neutrality.
1.
This Section regulates signs in a manner which is consistent with the speech freedoms of both the United States and Missouri Constitutions and the Missouri Statutes, and is intended to be content neutral.
2.
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section no sign is subject to any additional limitation based on its content or message.
C.
Signs Exempt From Regulation. The following signs or sign activities are exempt from the regulations of this Section.
1.
Signs placed by a governmental body, governmental agency, or public authority, such as traffic signs, signals or regulatory devices or warnings; public notices; signs of historical interest; or other similar signs or devices;
2.
Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and date of construction or establishment when cut into any masonry surface;
3.
Signs inside buildings, inside windows or painted on windows or on glass portions of doors of buildings;
4.
Banners on public utility pole brackets placed by public entities;
5.
Signs carried by a person; and
6.
Temporary event signs placed by public, charitable, religious or fraternal organizations, provided that they do not exceed the applicable size, height and area regulations as they may be established herein.
§ 435.030 Sign Permitting And Review.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
Sign Permits Required. No person shall install, erect, display, alter, move or replace any non-exempt sign without first obtaining a sign permit issued by the Director in accordance with this Section. This Section does not apply if the sign is exempt from sign permits as provided below. The Director shall issue sign permits only to:
B.
Exemptions From Sign Permit. This Section does not require sign permits for the following:
1.
Replacing or altering the changeable copy area of a sign;
2.
Sign panel replacement on multi-tenant signs, provided the panel to be replaced does not exceed six (6) square feet.
3.
Painting, repairing, cleaning or maintaining a sign unless a structural change is made or the alteration, or painting is being done due to a change in ownership of the business or premises.
4.
Temporary signs in non-commercial or non-industrial, not including multi-family or apartment community zoning districts, except otherwise addressed herein, including, but not limited to, construction signs, garage sale signs, home parade signs, political signs, real estate signs, and opinion signs.
5.
Flags, subject to the standards of Section 435.070(K).
C.
While the signs listed in Subsection (B) are exempt from the sign permit requirements, they are subject to all other applicable requirements of this Section.
D.
Sign Permit Application. An application for a sign permit shall be made in writing upon a form provided by the Development Services Department. The application is to be accompanied by the written consent of the owner, lessee, agent, or trustee having charge of the property on which the sign is proposed to be located, and the following information:
1.
Accurate and scaled site plan showing the location of the property lines, buildings, parking areas, driveways, landscaped areas, utility lines, and the existing and proposed freestanding signs on the site.
2.
Accurate and scaled building elevation(s) showing existing and proposed attached sign(s) (exempt signs need not be shown).
3.
Accurate and scaled plans, details and samples showing the location, dimensions, materials and illumination of each proposed sign.
4.
Photographs of the proposed sign location and the existing signs.
5.
Any electrical permit required and issued for the sign.
6.
Any other information that the Director determines is needed to determine whether the proposed sign complies with the intent of this Chapter.
E.
Sign Permit Review And Issuance.
1.
Administrative Review. The Director shall have the authority to review and issue sign permits in accordance with Section 470.190 of this Code.
a.
If the sign permit application is complete, the Director shall review the sign permit application.
b.
If the sign permit complies with all applicable requirements of this Chapter, the Director shall issue the permit.
c.
The Director may issue the permit with conditions needed to ensure compliance with the requirements of this Code.
2.
Planning Commission Review. The Planning and Zoning Commission may review sign applications for permitted permanent sign types listed in this Section which may exceed the maximum number of signs permitted, maximum sign area, or maximum height. The Commission may also review requests to install permanent signage that is not allowed by the Chapter. In reviewing the sign application, the Commission may consider:
a.
The purpose and intent of this Section;
b.
Proposed or permitted uses of the property or building;
c.
Size or height of the building;
d.
Proximity to other adjacent signs;
e.
Surrounding zoning and land uses;
f.
Topography of the site or unique visibility considerations; and
g.
The physical character of the sign, excluding content.
F.
Sign Permit Validity, Suspension Or Revocation. A sign permit shall become null and void if:
1.
The work on the site authorized by that permit is not commenced within one hundred eighty (180) days from its issuance; or
2.
The work authorized on the site by that permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of one hundred eighty (180) days after the time the work is commenced.
3.
If a permit becomes null and void, the applicant shall not commence the activities authorized by the permit until a new sign permit is obtained.
4.
The Director may suspend or revoke a permit issued in error or based on incorrect, inaccurate, or incomplete information, or in violation of any City ordinance or regulation. The applicant may appeal a revocation with the Board of Zoning Adjustment.
§ 435.040 Sign Definitions, Measurements, And Interpretations.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A. ACTIVE BUILDING BOARD SIGN ACTIVE PLAT BOARD SIGN ADDRESSING SIGNAGE ATTACHED SIGNAGE CATEGORY AWNING SIGN BANNER SIGN BOARD SIGN CANOPY SIGN DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION SIGNAGE CATEGORY DIRECTIONAL SIGN DUAL POST SIGN ELECTRONIC MESSAGE SIGN FEATHER OR QUILL SIGN FLAG SIGN FRAME SIGN GRAND OPENING EVENT SIGNAGE INFLATABLE DISPLAY SIGN LANDSCAPE WALL SIGN MARQUEE SIGN MENU/ORDER BOARD SIGNAGE MONUMENT SIGN MONUMENT SIGN, MULTI-TENANT MONUMENT SIGN, SUBDIVISION ENTRANCE PENNANT/STREAMER PERMANENT FREESTANDING SIGNAGE CATEGORY PERMANENT SIGNAGE GROUP PILLAR SIGN POLE SIGN PORTABLE SIGN SANDWICH BOARD/A-FRAME SIGN SIGN STRUCTURE SNIPE SIGN STAKE SIGN TEMPORARY FREESTANDING SIGN CATEGORY TEMPORARY SIGNAGE GROUP UNDER CANOPY SIGN VEHICLE SIGN WALL SIGN WALL SIGN, RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY WINDOW SIGN WINDOW SIGNAGE CATEGORY YARD SIGNAGE CATEGORY
Sign Definitions.
A type of temporary development and construction signage, constructed of rigid material such as plywood or corrugated plastic which may be displayed on the site of a building actively under construction, and permitted only during the time in which a building permit is valid.
A type of temporary development and construction signage made or rigid material such as plywood or corrugated plastic which may be displayed on the site of subdivision plat active under construction.
Signage that is affixed to a commercial building or structure, or residential dwelling or building containing addressing numerals for the purposes of identifying mailing address information.
Any type of sign permanently affixed to an outside wall of a building.
A type of on-building sign attached as an overhead covering that projects from and is supported by the wall of a building to shield a doorway, walkway, or window.
A type of temporary sign that is made of flexible material such as cloth or fabric, plastic, or vinyl or similar non-rigid material and supported along two (2) sides or at two (2) or more corners by poles, posts, wires, ropes, string, nails, or other removable fastening materials.
A sign that is temporarily placed on the ground and is made of rigid material such as plywood or corrugated plastic. Board signs generally include a rigid, solid face supported by a rigid frame.
A type of on-building sign that is directly affixed via bolts, brackets, or similar method to a rigid permanent canopy which is mounted to, or adjacent to, the facade of a building.
A sign category which is limited to display during the active development of a subdivision plat or commercial construction projects.
A type of permanent signage designed to provide direction to pedestrian and vehicular customer traffic to a specific destination or amenity within a development or site.
A temporary freestanding sign supported by two (2) vertical posts, typically installed into the ground, with a sign panel mounted between or across the two (2) posts.
A type of sign that displays words, lines, logos, graphic images, or symbols, which may be changed electronically to provide different information, and which includes computer signs, electronic reader boards, video screens, LCD signs, electronic time and temperature signs, and other signs with electronically controlled changing or moving displays.
A sign consisting of a piece of vertically elongated, flexible material such as cloth or vinyl which is affixed to a single support post driven in the ground. The pole may be rigid or flexible but is not permanent. Feather signs are also known as feather flags, quill signs, bow flags, wind feather and teardrop signs.
A type of permanent sign made of vinyl, fabric, or other similar lightweight all-weather flexible material which is mounted on a pole and displayed outward or upward. The pole can either be driven into the ground or attached to a building. If the pole is driven into the ground, it must be rigid and permanent. If the pole is attached to the building, it must also be rigid and securely anchored.
A type of yard sign that consists of a frame into which a sign face can be inserted and secured upon two (2) or more wood, metal, or plastic stakes or ground spikes. Frame signs are generally used to support non-rigid materials such as vinyl.
Additional temporary signage for commercial businesses to utilize during their initial opening to the public to better promote their business.
A display, object or sign that is intended to be filled with air or other gas that depicts any container, figure, product, object or message.
A sign consisting of individual letters mounted or integrated into retaining walls, freestanding landscape walls, or similar vertical site features located on private property and visible from a public right-of-way or public space.
A type of on-building signage attached to and made part of a permanent canopy or roof structure projecting beyond a building wall at an entrance to a building. Marquees generally extend along a building wall and are generally designed and constructed to provide protection against weather.
A type of daily notice sign used only in conjunction with drive-through or drive-in establishments.
A freestanding sign in which the entire bottom of the sign is in contact with and anchored to the ground, or which is mounted on a solid base at least two-thirds (2/3) of the width of the sign face, providing a solid and continuous background for the sign face from the ground to the top of the sign.
A type of freestanding monument sign designed with two (2) or more removable panels to identify the tenants in a building with more than one (1) tenant space, or in a development with more than one (1) building.
A freestanding monument sign that is located at an entrance of a residential subdivision and is associated with identification of the subdivision.
Any small strips of lightweight plastic, fabric, or similar material shaped triangularly or rectangularly, suspended from a rope, wire, or string, usually in a series. The term "pennant" shall not include a "banner sign" as defined and regulated herein.
A sign permanently resting on or supported by a slab, pedestal, post, pylon, or any other form of base located on the ground.
Signage that is either securely anchored to the ground or affixed to a building surface or parapet structure or designed to be permanently anchored to a supporting structure and remain in its original location without modification.
A slender, three-dimensional freestanding vertical sign.
A freestanding sign that is mounted on a pole, tube, or other fabricated member without any architectural covering of the support structure.
A temporary sign that is not permanently affixed to one (1) location and has the capability of being moved from one (1) site to the next site, including any vehicle or trailer containing any advertising matter, words, symbols, or pictures, that is parked on public or private property, for the primary purpose of advertising or directing attention to a business. This definition does not include sandwich signs or permitted temporary signs.
A type of daily notice sign placed on the ground and constructed in such a manner as to form an "A"-like shape, hinged or not hinged at the top, with each angular face held together at an appropriate distance by a supporting element such as a folding bar, latch, or chain.
All elements of a freestanding sign, including the sign face, background or decorative elements related to the presentation of the sign's message, and the structural supports.
Any sign of a material such as cardboard, paper, pressed wood, plastic or metal that is attached to a fence, tree, light pole, utility pole or temporary structure or those staked into the ground, or any sign that is not securely fastened to a building or firmly anchored to the ground.
A non-illuminated temporary sign that is mounted to either a wooden or wire stake that is secured in place by pushing it into the ground.
A type of sign that is posted for a limited period of time or not permanently attached to the ground, a building, or a load-bearing structure.
A sign which is securely anchored by one (1) or more posts, poles or stakes located outside of, or affixed to, a building or property for up to four thirty-day periods of display in a calendar year. Such signs are not intended, designed or installed for permanent display, and often used for the purpose of informing the public of a temporary event.
A display attached to the underside of a marquee or canopy and protruding over public or private sidewalks or right-of-way.
A sign attached to, placed upon, mounted, painted, pasted or drawn on any vehicle or trailer that is parked on a property for the principal purpose of displaying the sign message and is not regularly and customarily used in the operation of the business.
A type of on-building sign attached to or erected against an exterior wall of a building or structure that projects not more than twelve (12) inches from a wall and presents only one (1) face with advertising copy to the public and does not extend above the roofline.
A type of on-building signage typically used in residential communities to identify the name of community or neighborhood building, clubhouse or other similar structure.
A type of sign that is either painted onto a window, attached to the inside face of an exterior window, or located inside a building within three (3) feet of a window and intended to be viewed from the exterior of the building. Window signs may face toward the outside, the inside, or both.
A sign located within a building that is attached to the inside face of an exterior window.
A sign category that is intended to accommodate a wide variety of sign purposes (e.g., garage sale signs, for sale signs, political or initiative signs, etc.), often needed on a temporary basis. Such signs are freestanding and mounted on one (1) or two (2) stakes or posts and do not have footings. All yard signs must be placed on private property and not within the City right-of-way.
B.
Sign Measurements.
1.
Measurement Of Area Of Individual Signs. The area of a sign face will be computed by means of the smallest square, circle, rectangle, triangle or combination thereof that will encompass the extreme limits of the writing, representation, emblem or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the background of the display or used to differentiate the sign from the backdrop or structure against which it is placed. The area of a sign face does not include any supporting framework, bracing or decorative fence or wall when the fence or wall otherwise meets the regulations of this Chapter and is clearly incidental to the display itself.
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2.
Sign Height Measurement. For projecting and under canopy signs, the height of a sign will be computed as the distance from the highest point of the sign structure to the lowest point on the ground directly below the sign. For freestanding signs, the height of a sign will be computed as the distance from the highest point of the sign structure to the lowest point on the ground directly below the sign.
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For lots with an elevation below the adjacent street, the height of the sign will be computed as the distance from the highest point of the sign structure to the height of the sidewalk, or curb line of street if no sidewalk exists, adjacent to the property, provided the sign is installed within thirty (30) feet of the street right-of-way line.
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3.
Building Facade Area Measurement. Building facade area includes the entire area of a building wall, including doors, windows, recessed and projecting areas, and all other features, measured from the ground to the top of the roof, including architectural features.
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4.
Sign Face Separation. For the purposes of computing sign area, a single sign becomes two (2) signs if there is an angle created between the two (2) outer surfaces of the sign greater than forty-five degrees (45°).
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C.
Sign Setbacks. Signs must be located on-site, and outside of the public right-of-way and sight triangles.
§ 435.050 General Standards Of Applicability.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
Materials, Construction And Maintenance.
1.
Except as otherwise expressly stated in this Chapter, all permanent signs, sign structures and non-structural trim must be constructed of approved combustible or non-combustible materials.
2.
All signs, together with all their supports, braces, guys, and anchors, shall be kept in good repair and, unless constructed of galvanized or noncorroding metal, shall be given a protective coating as necessary to maintain a clean appearance and safe condition. All signs shall be maintained in accordance with all City ordinances, including ordinances concerning nuisances and vegetation.
3.
Letters, figures, characters or representations in cutout or irregular form maintained in conjunction with, attached to or superimposed upon any sign must be safely and securely built or attached to the sign structure.
4.
Illuminated signs produced in quantity (as opposed to signs custom-built for specific locations) must be constructed in accordance with the "Standards for Electric Signs" (U.L. 48) of the Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.
5.
All electrical signs must be connected to permanent electrical service installed according to the requirements of the electrical code. All wiring for newly constructed detached signs must be underground. Electrical permits shall be obtained for any signs requiring electrical service connections.
6.
Any permanent sign, other advertising structure, marquee, canopy or awning as defined in this Chapter must be designed and constructed to withstand a wind pressure of not less than twenty-five (25) pounds per square foot of net surface area; and must be constructed to receive dead loads as required in the building code and/or other City ordinances.
7.
Any sign drawing submitted with a sign permit application for a monument or projecting sign shall include the signature and seal of an engineer or architect registered in the State of Missouri.
C.
Landscaping. All monument signs for new developments must be landscaped with shrubs, perennial and annual flowers, or ground cover (non-turf-grasses) plants. The landscaping area must be a minimum of three (3) feet wide on all sides of the monument base. Where the area around the base of the sign is insufficient in size for all of the required landscaping, the Development Services Director may permit installation of a portion of the required landscaping at an alternate location on the site.
D.
Master Signage Plan. A master signage plan shall be submitted with any site plan application for new commercial developments in which signage will be proposed. The signage plan should generally depict the number, location and design of monument and wall signs, including directional or incidental signs proposed within a development. Master sign plans shall indicate the amount, location, and type of signage allocated to buildings and/or tenant space. The number of sign types, such as awning signs, cabinet signs, individual graphics. If more than one (1) sign type is used on a single building, the sign types shall have at least two (2) of the following design elements in common with each other:
§ 435.060 Sign Types Permitted.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
Residential District And Uses. The following permanent signs are permitted in residential zoning districts, or residential uses permitted within an agricultural district.
Sign Area and Height Regulations | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sign Type | Number of Signs Allowed | Sign Location | Sign Face and Materials | Illumination | A, RE, RR, R-1A, R-1, R-1.5, R-2 | R-3, R-3A, R-3B, | Additional Requirements |
Permanent Signage Group | |||||||
Freestanding Signage Category | |||||||
Monument sign, subdivision or residential community | 1 per street frontage 2 per entrance per subdivision to an arterial or collector street | 5' from all property lines, within common area or easement for subdivision signage | Brick, stone, masonry or similar durable materials | Direct or indirect | 32 SF max 6' height | 32 SF max 6' height | Section 435.070(A) |
Landscape wall sign | 1 per street frontage | Permitted on any engineered retaining or landscape wall | Brick, stone or masonry block, with letters constructed of metal or similar durable materials | 1 SF per linear foot of wall length, not to exceed 6' in height | Section 435.070(D) | ||
Flag sign | 4 per residential lot | Located on site and at least 10' away from all property lines | Vinyl, fabric, or lightweight all-weather material | 40 SF max 30' height | 40 SF max 30' height | Section 435.070(K) | |
Electronic Message sign | Not allowed | ||||||
Attached Signage Category | |||||||
Wall sign, residential community | 3 per residential community building | On building facades, not to project above any roof line | Direct or indirect | Not allowed | 10% of building facade area | Section 435.070(H) | |
B.
Commercial, Office, Industrial Districts and Non-Residential Uses. The following permanent signs are permitted in commercial, office, or industrial districts.
Sign Area and Height Regulations | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sign Type | Number of Signs Allowed | Sign Location | Sign Face and Materials | Illumination | A, RE, RR, R-1A, R-1, R-1.5, R-2 | R-3, R-3A, R-3B, | Additional Requirements |
Permanent Signage Group | |||||||
Freestanding Signage Category | |||||||
Monument sign, subdivision or residential community | 1 per street frontage 2 per entrance per subdivision to an arterial or collector street | 5' from all property lines, within common area or easement for subdivision signage | Brick, stone, masonry or similar durable materials | Direct or indirect | 32 SF max 6' height | 32 SF max 6' height | Section 435.070(A) |
Landscape wall sign | 1 per street frontage | Permitted on any engineered retaining or landscape wall | Brick, stone or masonry block, with letters constructed of metal or similar durable materials | 1 SF per linear foot of wall length, not to exceed 6' in height | Section 435.070(D) | ||
Flag sign | 4 per residential lot | Located on site and at least 10' away from all property lines | Vinyl, fabric, or lightweight all-weather material | 40 SF max 30' height | 40 SF max 30' height | Section 435.070(K) | |
Electronic Message sign | Not allowed | ||||||
Attached Signage Category | |||||||
Wall sign, residential community | 3 per residential community building | On building facades, not to project above any roof line | Direct or indirect | Not allowed | 10% of building facade area | Section 435.070(H) | |
§ 435.070 Additional Standards For Sign Types.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
Monument Signs.
1.
A monument sign shall be supported with a base that is at least eighty percent (80%) of the width of the sign at its widest point, and shall be landscaped in accordance with Section 430.050 of this Code.
2.
A monument sign base shall have a masonry or concrete substructure with an exterior base consisting of durable masonry materials and include brick, split or scored concrete masonry units (CMU), natural or synthetic stone, or other architectural material(s) that, in the opinion of the Director, meet the intent of this Section.
B.
Directional Signs.
1.
Incidental signs used for directing traffic shall be installed as permanent monument signs and are subject to the following limitations:
a.
Shall be permitted for businesses utilizing menu or order board signs or with drive-thru facilities, or within residential communities with neighborhood amenities.
b.
Shall not exceed nine (9) square feet in area or three (3) feet in height.
c.
The Planning and Zoning Commission shall have the authority to establish limits on the maximum number of directions and incidental signs when necessary.
D.
Landscape Wall Signs.
1.
Signs placed on a landscape or retaining wall shall be considered freestanding signs.
2.
Landscape wall signs shall be generally centered or adjusted to maintain scale, visibility and proportionality.
3.
Cabinet box signs with visible raceways or exposed conduit, banner signs, board signs, and other temporary sign types are prohibited from being placed on a landscape or retaining wall.
E.
Menu or Order Board Signs.
1.
Location of the drive-thru menu or order board signs shall be included with development or site plans. Menu or order board signs proposed to be added to an existing building shall also comply with these requirements.
2.
Menu or order board signs shall not be located between the building and the right-of-way line or any arterial road when possible to avoid visual impact to the public roadway.
3.
Menu or order board signs shall be oriented away from residential properties to minimize noise and light impacts. Solid screening may be used to mitigate impacts.
4.
Restaurants providing drive-thru but not curbside service may have no more than two (2) menu boards per drive-thru lane, not to exceed eight (8) feet in height and forty-two (42) square feet in total size per menu board.
5.
Restaurants providing curbside service may have no more than one (1) menu board per bay not to exceed six (6) square feet per sign face for each menu board.
F.
Electronic Message Signs.
1.
Only one (1) electronic message sign is permitted per property, regardless of street frontages. In the case of a corner lot or lot with multiple street frontages, an electronic message sign and monument sign shall not exist on the same property.
2.
An electronic message sign shall not comprise more than fifty percent (50%) of the allowable sign area.
3.
Any portion of the message or image must have a minimum duration on screen of eight (8) seconds. An exception to this requirement is made for a sign that displays time and temperature.
4.
The change from one (1) message to the next shall not take more than one (1) second and shall not involve flashing or movement of text or images.
5.
Electronic message signs shall be maintained so as to be able to display messages in a complete and legible manner. Electronic message signs that are partially inoperable, burnt-out, malfunctioning in excess of fourteen (14) days shall be considered a violation.
6.
Prior to the issuance of a sign permit, the applicant shall provide written certification from the sign manufacturer that the light intensity has been factory pre-set not to exceed seven thousand (7,000) NITS during daylight hours and two thousand five hundred (2,500) NITS between dusk and dawn and that the intensity level is protected from end-user manipulation.
7.
The sign shall not display light of such intensity or brilliance to cause glare or otherwise impair the vision of the driver, or result in a nuisance to the driver.
G.
Subdivision Entrance Signs.
1.
Subdivision entrance signs may be located at entrances to the subdivision and shall be within a sign easement, common area, or private property, and shall only be permitted as monument signs. Signs may not be located in the sight triangle.
2.
Subdivisions that include access to major collector or arterial roadways shall be permitted 2 subdivisions entrance signs, provided they are located on opposing sides of the subdivision street entrance, and in compliance with all other locational requirements of this Code.
3.
The developer or property owners association shall be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the subdivision identification signs, including landscaping and lighting.
4.
All subdivision monument signs shall have a masonry, block or concrete substructure with surfaces consisting of clay brick, split-face concrete block, stone or stucco. Secondary materials such as wood or metal are permitted, but should be subordinate to the main structure.
5.
Ground-mounted indirect lighting is permitted, placed five (5) feet from the sign, and shall be directed at the sign only. High intensity lights, such as flood lights, shall not be used to illuminate the sign.
H.
Wall Signs.
1.
Shall not obscure window or door openings, other open areas within a building facade, or architectural features such as arches, columns, eaves, cornices, moldings, dormers, pediments, or ornamental materials such as metal, glass or woodwork.
2.
Shall be fastened directly to the exterior wall of a building and extend from the surface of the wall no more than twelve (12) inches.
3.
Wall signs for a multi-tenant building for a particular tenant shall only be permitted on the portion of the building facade corresponding to the space occupied by that tenant.
I.
Awning Signs.
1.
Awnings shall be slanted or sloped and made of non-rigid material such as fabric or flexible plastic, supported by a rigid frame; or can be constructed with rigid materials, such as metal or plastic.
2.
Awning signs shall be materially consistent throughout all facades of the building. Mixing of materials such as cloth, fabric, metal, plastic or other similar material is prohibited.
3.
When the maximum sign area is a percentage of building facade, the calculation shall be based on the width of the awning times the height of the building.
J.
Canopy Signs.
1.
May be attached perpendicular to a building wall and anchored with horizontal beams, guys, cables, or other structure connecting elements, or may be a freestanding overhead structure supported by vertical posts.
2.
Canopy sign area shall be calculated as a percentage of the building facade in which the canopy is attached. In the case of a multi-tenant building, canopy sign area shall be determined by the area of the facade of the tenant space, and not the entire building facade.
3.
Under canopy signs shall be rigidly anchored, and shall maintain at least eight (8) feet of clearance above sidewalks and pedestrian entrances.
K.
Flags And Flagpoles.
1.
Flagpoles may be freestanding ground-mounted extending upward, or wall-mounted extending outward. Ground-mounted poles shall be setback at least ten (10) feet from any property lines, and not interfere with any buildings, structure, or utilities.
2.
There shall be no more than two (2) flagpoles per lot in all zoning districts.
3.
Flags must be attached to a flag pole structure, and shall not be attached to any building, fence, wall, or other unapproved structure.
4.
There shall be no more than two (2) flags per pole.
5.
No flag shall exceed five (5) feet by eight (8) feet in dimensions.
§ 435.080 Temporary Event Signage.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
Applicability. Temporary signs placed in any zoning district shall conform to the standards and requirements within this Section, and any special conditions that may be required as part of any temporary use or event.
B.
General Standards And Requirements.
1.
Location. Temporary signs must be located entirely on private property and not within the public right-of-way which includes the entire public sidewalk and planting strip, or on public property, and must be outside of the sight triangle.
2.
Placement. Temporary signs shall only be permitted as ground-mounted signs. Attaching signs to buildings, fences, walls, or other structures shall be prohibited.
3.
Temporary signage must also be at least five (5) feet from any other property lines.
4.
Separation Requirements. To promote roadway safety, prevent excessive visual clutter, and maintain an orderly streetscape, temporary signs placed along public rights-of-way or adjacent to roadways shall comply with the following separation standards:
a.
Temporary signs shall be spaced a minimum of ten (10) feet apart from one another when located on the same parcel of land, as measured in any direction from the nearest edge of each sign.
b.
Temporary signs shall not obstruct the visibility of traffic control devices, street signage, residential or commercial driveways, intersections, or pedestrian crossings.
5.
Illumination of temporary signs is not permitted.
6.
Streamers, pennants, flashers or other attention-attracting devices are not permitted to be attached to approved temporary or permanent signs.
7.
Size And Number. The maximum size and number of temporary signs permitted on a property, parcel or building is specified in Section 435.080(D).
8.
Ownership Permission. Temporary signage placed within commercial districts must be placed by the property owner, or with the express written permission of the property owner. Permission obtained from a property owner shall expressly state the general location of the sign, and the duration it is allowed to be placed.
C.
Permitted Temporary Signage.
1.
Residential Districts and Uses. The following temporary signs are permitted in residential zoning districts, or residential uses permitted within an agricultural district.
Sign Type | Number of Signs Allowed | Sign Location | Sign Face and Materials | Illumination | Sign Area and Height Regulations | Additional Requirements | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A, RE, RR, R-1A, R-1, R-1.5, R-2 | R-3, R-3A, R-3B, | ||||||
Temporary Signage Group | |||||||
Freestanding Signage Category | |||||||
Banner sign | 1 per parcel/lot per street frontage | Located on site and at least 5' away from all property lines | Vinyl, fabric, or lightweight all-weather material | Not allowed | Not allowed | 32 SF max 6' height | Section 435.080(D)(1) |
Board Sign | Treated plywood, corrugated plastic or similar rigid all-weather material | ||||||
Feather or quill sign | 2 per establishment | Vinyl, fabric, or lightweight all-weather material | 32 SF max 12' height | Section 435.080(D)(2) | |||
Dual post sign | 1 per street frontage | 5' from all property lines, or within common area or easement for subdivision signage | Durable, rigid materials, supported by at least 2 treated 4" x 4" wood posts | Indirect | 24 SF max 6' height | 32 SF max 6' height | |
Inflatable sign | Permitted with Planning and Zoning Commission approval, pursuant to UDC Section 470.240 | ||||||
Yard Signage Category | |||||||
Stake or frame sign | Up to 4 signs | 5' from all property lines, including separation requirements | Durable, rigid materials such as plastic or metal supported at least 2 stakes, or a stake frame | Not allowed | 12 sq. ft. for a single sign or 3 sq. ft. each, not to exceed 12 sq. ft. total | 24 sq. ft. for a single sign or 6 sq. ft. each, not to exceed 24 sq. ft. total | Section 435.080(D)(4) |
Development and Construction Signage Category | |||||||
Active plat or building sign | 1 per street frontage, not to exceed 2 per active subdivision plat for single-family uses. 1 per street frontage for non-single family uses | 5' from property lines, on private property or common area tract | Durable, rigid materials, supported by at least 2 treated 4" x 4" wood posts, or attached to a building wall | Not allowed | 48 SF max. 8' height | Section 435.080(D)(7) | |
Directional signage | No limit, permitted per approved construction plans | 5' from all property lines and driveways, on buildings facades | Durable, rigid materials such as plastic or metal supported by rigid posts or attached to a building wall | 6 SF max. 4' height | Section 435.080(D)(7) | ||
2.
Commercial, Office, Industrial Districts And Non-Residential Uses. The following temporary signs are permitted in commercial, office, or industrial districts.
Sign Type | Number of Signs Allowed | Sign Location | Sign Face and Materials | Illumination | Sign Area and Height Regulations | Additional Requirements | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
A, RE, RR, R-1A, R-1, R-1.5, R-2 | R-3, R-3A, R-3B, | ||||||
Temporary Signage Group | |||||||
Freestanding Signage Category | |||||||
Banner sign | 1 per parcel/lot per street frontage | Located on site and at least 5' away from all property lines | Vinyl, fabric, or lightweight all-weather material | Not allowed | Not allowed | 32 SF max 6' height | Section 435.080(D)(1) |
Board Sign | Treated plywood, corrugated plastic or similar rigid all-weather material | ||||||
Feather or quill sign | 2 per establishment | Vinyl, fabric, or lightweight all-weather material | 32 SF max 12' height | Section 435.080(D)(2) | |||
Dual post sign | 1 per street frontage | 5' from all property lines, or within common area or easement for subdivision signage | Durable, rigid materials, supported by at least 2 treated 4" x 4" wood posts | Indirect | 24 SF max 6' height | 32 SF max 6' height | |
Inflatable sign | Permitted with Planning and Zoning Commission approval, pursuant to UDC Section 470.240 | ||||||
Yard Signage Category | |||||||
Stake or frame sign | Up to 4 signs | 5' from all property lines, including separation requirements | Durable, rigid materials such as plastic or metal supported at least 2 stakes, or a stake frame | Not allowed | 12 sq. ft. for a single sign or 3 sq. ft. each, not to exceed 12 sq. ft. total | 24 sq. ft. for a single sign or 6 sq. ft. each, not to exceed 24 sq. ft. total | Section 435.080(D)(4) |
Development and Construction Signage Category | |||||||
Active plat or building sign | 1 per street frontage, not to exceed 2 per active subdivision plat for single-family uses. 1 per street frontage for non-single family uses | 5' from property lines, on private property or common area tract | Durable, rigid materials, supported by at least 2 treated 4" x 4" wood posts, or attached to a building wall | Not allowed | 48 SF max. 8' height | Section 435.080(D)(7) | |
Directional signage | No limit, permitted per approved construction plans | 5' from all property lines and driveways, on buildings facades | Durable, rigid materials such as plastic or metal supported by rigid posts or attached to a building wall | 6 SF max. 4' height | Section 435.080(D)(7) | ||
D.
Additional Standards For Temporary Sign Types.
1.
Freestanding Signs.
a.
Freestanding signs may be installed as banners or board signs.
b.
Freestanding signs shall be made of durable, all-weather, material so as to maintain their integrity and appearance during their installation.
c.
Freestanding signs shall be secured to at least two (2) vertical supporting elements, and shall not be secured to any other approved signage on a property or building.
2.
Feather Or Quill Signs.
a.
No feather or quill sign may be placed on a roof or extend above the height of the building to which it relates.
b.
For single tenant buildings and lots, one (1) feather or quill sign may be displayed per street frontage, with a maximum of two (2) signs per lot.
c.
For multi-tenant buildings and shopping centers, one (1) feather or quill sign may be displayed per tenant, not to exceed four (4) total signs per lot.
3.
Sandwich Board/A-Frame Signs.
a.
Sandwich board/A-frame signs are permitted in all commercial districts.
b.
Sandwich board/A-frame signs shall be placed only for the duration of time that the business is in operation, and shall not be on display outside of the building or tenant space when the business is closed.
c.
One (1) sandwich board/A-frame sign is allowed per business tenant space, in addition to other permitted signs.
d.
Sandwich board/A-frame signs shall not be located any further than five (5) feet from the principal entrance to a business or tenant space, and shall not block any required pedestrian or vehicular access, or fire lane.
4.
Yard Signs.
a.
Up to three (3) additional yard signs are permitted on residentially zoned properties within a period of thirty (30) days prior to, and five (5) days following, any local, state, or federal election hosted by the City, subject to all other size, location and separation requirements of this Code.
b.
Up to four (4) additional yard signs are permitted on commercially or industrially zoned properties within a period of thirty (30) days prior to, and five (5) days following, any local, state, or federal election hosted by the City, subject to all other size, location and separation requirements of this Code.
c.
Yard signs may not be illuminated.
5.
Window Signs.
a.
Window signs shall not count toward the total number of allowable signs on a building.
b.
Window signs shall only be placed on the inside of a window, and shall not be placed on customer entrances and exits.
c.
Window signs shall not obstruct more than fifty percent (50%) of the area of the total area comprising windows and transparent doors on any building or tenant space.
6.
Grand Opening Event Signs.
a.
All signage must be placed on the property in which the business is located.
b.
Additional signage shall be limited to a maximum of sixty (60) days, which shall begin on the date that the business becomes open to the general public.
c.
A total of five (5) temporary signs may be placed for a grand opening event, and shall be limited to banner signs and/or feather or quill signs. Additional signage shall be subject to other size and location restrictions within this Chapter.
7.
Development And Construction Signs. Construction signs may be erected on private property subject to the following limitations:
a.
Development and construction signs for commercial, industrial and non-single family residential projects may be erected upon the issuance of a building or construction permit, and shall be removed at the issuance of certificate of occupancy.
b.
Signs for single family construction projects or subdivisions may be erected after the approval of a final plat, and shall be removed prior to the last certificate of occupancy for a lot within the plat.
c.
Building and construction shall not include signs or board.
d.
No sign shall exceed forty-eight (48) square feet in area or eight (8) feet in height.
§ 435.090 Sign Illumination.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
General Standards For Illumination.
1.
Signs may be illuminated as permitted within Section 435.060, and in accordance with other relevant sections of the Code.
2.
Flashing lights, rapidly changing or intermittent-type illumination, rotating beams, or illumination resembling emergency lights are prohibited for the illumination of signs.
3.
The electric wiring for all illuminated signs must be located underground. Any transformers or electrical appurtenances required for the illumination of a sign shall be concealed within a sign cabinet, or landscaped in accordance with Section 430.050.
4.
An electrical permit shall be obtained for any illuminated sign.
B.
Methods of Illumination.
1.
Direct Illumination. Illumination in which the source of light comes from an appurtenance to the sign itself, including wall mounted, ground mounted, or accessory lighting fixture.
a.
Backlit. Illumination that is arranged in such a way that the light is cast from behind the sign to the eyes of the viewer.
b.
Wall Mounted Lamp. Illumination resulting from light emitted directly from a shielded light fixture located at the top of the sign and angled downward onto the sign face. The fixture is typically attached to a curved or adjustable mount, allowing light to be directed at the sign.
c.
Ground Mounted Lamp. Illumination resulting from light emitted directly from a light fixture located on and secured to the ground and angled upward onto the sign face. The fixture is typically anchored to the ground allowing light to be directed at the sign.
2.
Indirect Or Ambient Illumination. Illumination in which the only light that falls onto the sign comes from sources that are available naturally (e.g., sunlight, moonlight) or from artificial lighting sources used for other purposes in the vicinity of the sign.
a.
External Indirect Illumination. A source of external illumination located away from the sign, which lights the sign, but the direct light source is not obviously visible to persons viewing the sign from any street, sidewalk or adjacent property.
b.
Internal Indirect Or Halo Illumination. A source of illumination entirely within an individual letter, cabinet or structure which makes the sign visible at night by means of lighting the background upon which the individual letters are mounted. The letters are typically opaque, and thus are silhouetted against the background. The source of illumination is not visible. Also called "halo" or "reverse channel" lighting.
§ 435.100 Non-conforming Signs.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
Non-conforming signs are those that were lawfully established but no longer comply with the sign regulations of this Code. A non-conforming sign may remain, subject to the regulations of Section 475.070 of this Code.
§ 435.110 Removal Of Abandoned And Illegal Signs.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
Any temporary sign for which a permit has expired shall be considered an illegal sign.
B.
Any sign that fails to meet the maintenance requirements of this Chapter shall be deemed to be abandoned.
C.
Except as specifically provided elsewhere in this Chapter, any sign placed within the City right-of-way shall be considered an illegal sign.
§ 435.120 Inflatable Sign Permit.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
In order to install an inflatable sign, an application shall be filed for an inflatable sign permit. Applications for an inflatable sign permit shall be filed in accordance with Section 470.240.
§ 435.130 Prohibited Signage And Limitations.
[Ord. No. 2025-049, 8-25-2025]
A.
No sign shall be erected at any location where it may, by reason of its position, shape, color or design, interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device.
B.
No signs shall project above the parapet wall or eave of a building, or be mounted or extended above the roof of a building.
C.
No signs shall be mounted or displayed on an unlicensed vehicle.
D.
No signs shall be placed in such a manner that would impede vehicular or pedestrian access or visibility, and should not obstruct ingress or egress from any door, window, or fire escape.
E.
The following types of signs shall be expressly prohibited:
1.
Snipe signs;
2.
Vehicle signs;
3.
Portable signs;
4.
Any sign or other advertising structure displaying any obscene, indecent, or immoral matter;
5.
Any sign that obstructs or is attached to a fire escape;
6.
Any sign that obstructs a window, door, opening required for legal ventilation, or any other opening; or prevents free passage from one (1) part of the roof to another;
7.
Attention-attracting devices, electrical signs, displays or illuminated signs that may impair night vision, are a hazard to traffic or interfere with or conflict with traffic signals, whether inside or outside the building;
8.
All signs on public property, whether permanent or temporary, except signs installed by a government entity;
9.
Pole signs;
10.
Private sign, placed on public property;
11.
Roof signs;
12.
Pennant/streamer;
13.
Inflatable signs;
14.
Abandoned signs;
15.
Signs in the right-of-way, excluding governmental signs and traffic signs;
16.
Any sign or sign structure determined by the Director to be structurally unsafe or a hazard to safety or health by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, or abandonment;
17.
Signs that are directed to incite or produce imminent lawless action and are likely to incite or produce such action, as determined by the Director; and
18.
Signs that convey threats of violence that are directed at a person or group of persons that have the intent of placing the target at risk of bodily harm.