Rolla City Zoning Code
ARTICLE III
General Provisions
Section 42-300 General Provisions.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following Sections provide regulations for a variety of general land use issues.
Section 42-310 Parking.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Parking facilities shall be provided for the temporary storage or parking of motor vehicles for the use of occupants employees and patrons of buildings and/or properties according to this Chapter.
2.
No business licenses shall be approved by the Community Development Department, nor shall any sign permits be issued, nor shall the approval of a final building inspection be given until the required parking is installed.
3.
A "parking space" shall mean:
a.
A space of a minimum of one hundred sixty-two (162) square feet; and having a minimum width of nine (9) feet, exclusive of drives or aisles giving access thereto, accessible to streets or alleys or aisles leading to streets or alleys and to be usable for the storage or parking of motor vehicles whenever such parking space is not marked or delineated;
b.
A space within a garage or carport a minimum area of one hundred sixty-two (162) square feet and a minimum width of nine (9) feet;
c.
An area marked or delineated for the parking of vehicles; or
d.
A space meeting the definition of an accessible parking space in the Americans with Disabilities Act.
4.
Truck loading and unloading space as may be required by ordinance shall not be construed as supplying required off-street parking space.
5.
When a determination of the number of parking spaces required by this Division results in a fractional space, the fraction shall be rounded up to count as one (1) parking space for all non-residential uses. For residential uses, a fraction of less than one-half (0.5) spaces may be rounded down.
6.
The required number of parking spaces may be computed in the following methods, as specified in this Section:
a.
Floor Area. Area used or intended to be used for a service to the public as customers, patrons, clients or patients, or as tenants, including areas occupied by fixtures and equipment used for display or sale of merchandise, for show windows, or for offices incidental to the management or maintenance of stores or buildings. Floors or parts of floors used principally for toilet or rest rooms or for utilities, or for fitting rooms, dressing and alterations rooms, restaurant/retail back offices, halls, storage rooms, file rooms, stairways, elevators shall be excluded.
b.
Hospital Beds. In hospitals, bassinets shall not be counted as beds.
c.
Seating Space. In stadiums, sports arenas, churches and other places of assembly in which patrons or spectators occupy benches, pews or other similar seating facilities, each twenty (20) lineal inches of such seating facilities shall be counted as one (1) seat for the purpose of determining requirements hereunder.
d.
Number Of Employees. The number of employees shall be computed on the basis of the greatest number of persons to be employed at any one (1) period during the day or night.
7.
The exceptions to and the applicability of parking regulations and standards is as follows:
a.
Unless otherwise exempt, new buildings and land uses shall conform to all current parking regulations and standards.
b.
A change of use as listed in the permitted/conditional use lists of each district, increase of intensity of use, or the establishment of a new use, shall only be approved if the current parking regulations and standards are met.
c.
Any property with an existing building may not be required to increase the number of parking spaces in the event of a change in use if more parking cannot be constructed without reducing the building footprint or required landscaping, or otherwise feasibly be installed.
d.
Requests for additions and expansions to existing structures or uses shall not be permitted if the increased parking requirements that are induced by such requests cannot be provided.
e.
A temporary seasonal use, such as snow cone stands and fireworks stands shall not be required to provide additional parking spaces to the parking spaces that are already located on the parcel on which it would be located where such property has a minimum of five (5) existing parking spaces.
Section 42-311 Cooperative Parking Plan.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
A cooperative parking plan may be approved by the City to allow more flexibility in the provision of required parking facilities. A cooperative parking plan shall only be approved when the schedules of operation of all uses subject to the plan are sufficiently staggered such that they are not normally open, used, or operated during the primary operating hours of the other uses. The City shall have discretion to approve a cooperative parking plan based on the review of plans and other information submitted by the applicant subject to the requirements for off-street parking in this Division.
2.
The owners of the entire land area to be included in the plan shall file an application for a cooperative parking plan with the Community Development Director. The application shall include plans showing the location of the use, buildings, or structures for which shared off-street parking spaces are to be provided, the location and layout of the parking area, and a parking demand schedule. A parking demand schedule shall include:
a.
The hours of operation of each building, structure, or use which is to be party to the cooperative parking plan; and
b.
The projected parking demand for each building, structure, or use during each hour of the day for a typical week. Hourly parking demand may be averaged for week days, but shall be separately stated for Saturday and Sunday.
3.
Cooperative parking plans may be amended or withdrawn, pursuant to the process for the initial approval, provided that all parties to the cooperative parking plan consent and that the parking regulations of this Division are substantially satisfied.
Section 42-312 Required Parking Spaces.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Residential And Lodging Uses.
a.
All Residential Uses. Sixty-six hundredths (0.66) parking spaces for each bedroom with a minimum of two (2) parking spaces for a two (2) bedroom single-family detached dwelling, two-family dwelling, or townhouse unit on a separate platted lot.
b.
Dormitories, Fraternities, And Sororities. Two (2) for each three (3) occupants based on the capacity of the building plus any additional parking required for public assembly requirements of this Section.
c.
Hotels And Motels. One (1) for each sleeping room, plus any spaces required for accessory uses such as restaurants, cocktail lounges, meeting rooms, etc.
2.
Business And Commercial Uses.
a.
Restaurants. Restaurants, including night clubs, bars, lunch counters, diners and all other similar dining or drinking establishments, shall provide at least one off-street parking space for every seventy-five (75) square feet of floor area and outdoor dining area.
b.
Business Or Professional Offices. One (1) for each two hundred (200) square feet of total building floor area used or intended to be used for service to the public or as workspace for employees.
c.
Retail, Service, Or Mercantile Establishments. One (1) off-street parking space for each two hundred (200) square feet of floor area used or intended to be used for service to the public as customers, patrons and clients.
d.
Retail Establishments Over Eighty Thousand (80,000) Square Feet. One (1) for each three hundred (300) square feet of total building floor area, excluding on-site warehouse space not used for the display of goods for sale.
e.
Other Commercial Use Not Classified. One (1) per three hundred (300) square feet of floor area used for services to the public and workspace for employees.
f.
Industrial And Warehouse Uses. One (1) space per employee during the shift with the greatest number of employees, exclusive of any space used for the parking of vehicles used for the business. Retail areas or other uses open to the general public require additional parking based on that use.
3.
Schools, Institutions And Places Of Public Assembly.
a.
Places Of Public Assembly. One (1) for each four (4) seats or fifty (50) square feet of building space used or intended to be used for assembly by the public, whichever is greatest. Public assembly includes dance areas, theaters, banquet halls, churches, auditoriums, stadiums, etc.
b.
Convention/Exhibition Halls. One (1) for each one hundred (100) square feet of building space used for exhibition or conventions.
c.
Indoor Recreation. One (1) for each two hundred fifty (250) square feet of floor area.
d.
Outdoor Recreation. (Such as courts, fields, etc.) One (1) per each position or team member depending on customary use, plus any spaces required for any on-site assembly, dining, or retail areas.
e.
Private Schools. One (1) for each eight (8) students, plus one (1) for each employee.
f.
Hospitals. One (1) for each bed for inpatient care facilities and one (1) for each two hundred fifty (250) square feet of total building floor area.
g.
Day Care Centers And Nursery Schools. One (1) for each employee and one (1) for each five (5) children.
h.
Nursing Homes And Similar Facilities. One (1) for each three (3) beds plus one (1) for each two (2) employees.
4.
Exceptions and reductions from the required parking.
a.
Large Uses. The required parking may be reduced by ten percent (10%) for uses which require more than one hundred (100) parking spaces.
b.
Shared Parking. The required parking may be reduced by up to ten percent (10%) for shared parking areas if a shared parking agreement and/or cross access easements are executed.
c.
Motorcycle/Scooter Parking. A minimum of two (2) spaces and up to ten percent (10%) of all vehicle parking spaces may be converted into motorcycle/scooter parking.
d.
Electric Vehicle Charging. Electric vehicle charging spaces count towards the minimum parking requirements.
e.
An approved cooperative parking plan reduces the required amount of parking for the duration of the plan being in effect.
f.
Approval of a PUD, variance, or CUP may reduce the required parking if the reduction is specifically approved.
g.
No minimum parking requirements apply to commercial properties located in the C-C, Center City District. Parking for residential uses may be reduced by providing parking off-site, providing parking passes for residents, paying an impact fee for parking (if established), or by providing bicycle parking for all dwelling units as specified in this Section.
h.
Tandem Parking. The Community Development Director may approve tandem parking for certain commercial uses, two (2) or more bedroom residential units, or fraternities/sorority houses.
Section 42-313 General Requirements.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023; Ord. No. 4839, 1-6-2025]
1.
Every required parking and/or driving surface area shall be paved.
2.
Areas used for storage, overflow parking areas, and access for uses which do not generate traffic such as telecommunications towers may use a gravel surface, if approved by the City Engineer.
3.
A gravel surface may be approved for single-family uses by the City Engineer in locations where stormwater drainage will not wash the gravel; provided, that the portions of the driveway within fifty (50) feet of the right-of-way line is paved.
4.
The following applies to one- and two-family residential uses:
a.
Pavement. Vehicles and trailers, etc., may only be parked or stored on an approved surface. Pavement shall mean a durable, dust-free and hard material such as asphalt, concrete, or paving blocks.
Exception: Small utility trailers, no larger than twelve (12) feet (excluding the tongue), not visible from public view. At no time should such parking create a nuisance such as overgrown grass/weeds, dust, or harborage of vermin.
b.
Location. Parking or storage of vehicles and trailers is permitted in all yards. For purposes of this Article, "yard" shall mean open space between buildings and property lines in the front, rear and sides of the property. Nothing in this Section shall be construed to prohibit temporary parking on any yard by:
c.
RV Parking. Recreational Vehicles (RVs), including both motorized and non-motorized RVs, may not be used for a living quarters. Temporary usage may be permitted for up to fourteen (14) days at a time to allow for guest visits. No commercial use such as rental of RVs or parking space for such is permitted. No permanent connection to utilities is permitted.
d.
Access. Access to a parking or storage area from the street is permitted via an approved driveway or curb cut. Continued access from unapproved points is a zoning violation if such access may cause damage to the curbs, sidewalk, turf within the right-of-way, or turf in any yard open to public view.
e.
Violation. Continued parking or storage of vehicles on a grass, dirt, or other unapproved surface is a zoning violation.
5.
Pavement may include concrete, asphalt, chip and seal, engineered permeable pavement, or paver bricks.
6.
Delineated parking spaces must conform to the following dimensional requirements:
a.
Parking spaces generally must be a minimum of nine (9) feet in width and eighteen (18) feet in length.
b.
Designated "Compact Only" parking spaces may be reduced in width to eight (8) feet and length to sixteen (16) feet.
c.
Designated parking compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act may use the width and length dimensions as specified in those regulations.
d.
Designated parking for motorcycles/scooters must be a minimum of four and one-half (4.5) feet in width and eight (8) feet in length.
7.
Parking designated for compact vehicles must have signage to designate them for compact vehicles and must be grouped together and located as close to the main entryway as possible. Compact parking is not intended to be used to fill in excess areas within a parking lot. A maximum of ten percent (10%) of the total provided parking may be designated for compact vehicles.
8.
All required parking must be demarcated by paint, change in pavement material or color, delineators, or some other means which clearly defines the area of each parking space. Storage, display, and overflow parking areas are not required to be demarcated.
9.
All required parking must be located on the property for which the parking is required, or may be located on property which is adjacent, across the street, or within two hundred (200) feet of the subject property, provided that off-site parking areas are zoned for non-residential uses.
10.
Parking which is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or related guidance from the Department of Justice must be provided. For convenience, the requirements for the number of required spaces at the time of the adoption of these zoning regulations is provided below:
Total Number of Parking Spaces in Parking Facility (Lot or Garage) | Minimum Total Number of Accessible Parking Spaces Required | Minimum Number of Van Accessible Sparking Spaces |
|---|---|---|
1 — 25 | 1 | 1 |
26 — 50 | 2 | 1 |
51 — 75 | 3 | 1 |
76 — 100 | 4 | 1 |
101 — 150 | 5 | 1 |
151 — 200 | 6 | 1 |
201 — 300 | 7 | 2 |
301 — 400 | 8 | 2 |
401 — 500 | 9 | 2 |
501 — 1,000 | 2% of total | 1 of every 6 required ADA spaces |
1,001 and over | 20, plus 1 for each 100, or fraction thereof, over 1,000 | 1 of every 6 required ADA spaces |
11.
ADA compliant parking must be designated with signage, per the ADA requirements.
12.
Overflow parking may be permitted for certain uses and for temporary events.
a.
Permanent gravel overflow parking lots may be established for uses such as churches or event centers which would utilize the overflow area not more than an average of once per week each month. Overflow parking lots must use a dustless gravel to reduce impacts to surrounding properties. Overflow parking is not permitted as a primary use on a property.
b.
Temporary grass overflow parking may be used for temporary events such as a festival or concert which may occur not more than four (4) consecutive days once per month or ten (10) consecutive days once per year.
13.
Loading docks are not permitted to be arranged in such a way that the utilization of the docks would block any sidewalks, alleyways, or streets.
Section 42-314 Bicycle Parking.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Bicycle Parking Is Encouraged For All Uses. Bicycle parking is required for certain uses. Where required bicycle parking is provided, the parking must meet the following requirements.
2.
Required. Bicycle parking is required for all multi-family residential uses and non-residential uses located in the C-C, Center City District; R-4, Urban District; and U-R, Urban Residential District.
3.
Number. A minimum of one-half (0.5) bicycle parking spaces must be provided for each residential unit. A minimum of two (2) bicycle parking spaces must be provided for each business space, except office uses or uses which do not offer any services to the public.
4.
Additional Bicycle Parking. Any additional bicycle parking in excess of the required amount may be used one (1) for one (1) to reduce the required amount of vehicle parking by up to fifty percent (50%).
5.
Location. Bicycle parking spaces may be installed in the right-of-way adjacent to the property for commercial uses. Bicycle parking for residential uses must be located inside or under a roof. On ground-level residential units or units on floors served by an elevator, bicycle storage may be located inside the unit. Where bicycle parking is provided in a parking garage, such parking may only be located on the ground level.
6.
Type. The "Inverted U" type bicycle rack is required for all commercial uses. Residential uses may use the "Inverted U" type rack for common storage, may use non-traditional locations capable of locking a bike by the frame such as railings as approved by the Community Development Director, or a wall hanger for storage inside a unit.
Section 42-320 Projections, Encroachments, Obstructions, And Fencing.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
The following exceptions to the minimum setback, lot width, and maximum height limits found elsewhere in this Code may be applied.
2.
Where compliance with the yard regulations cannot reasonably be accomplished because of irregular shaped lots or hillside lots; the Board of Adjustment may modify such regulations through approval of a variance.
Section 42-321 Projections.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following projections may be located in a required yard, but are not permitted to project across a property line:
a.
Cornices, eaves, gutters, belt courses, sills, and other similar architectural features, may project into a required side yard by no more than two (2) feet and may project into a required front or rear yard by up to three (3) feet;
b.
Awnings, arcades, canopies, marquees, and galleries are permitted to encroach into the right-of-way by up to ten (10) feet and not less than two (2) feet from the curb, in the C-C Center City District. Such awnings, etc., must provide for a minimum clearance of seven (7) feet above any pedestrian way. Awnings, etc., may project up to five (5) feet into any required yard; provided, that they are set back a minimum of one (1) foot from any property line. A license agreement may be required for such projections.
Section 42-322 Encroachments.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
a.
Open (i.e., no roofs or cover) fire escapes and open stairways required for emergency egress may be permitted to extend into a required rear or side yard by up to five (5) feet.
b.
Open handicapped ramps are not subject to any setback requirements.
c.
In residential districts, bay windows and unenclosed balconies, porches, stoops, terraces, and their eaves may encroach into the required setbacks by up to five (5) feet and not less than five (5) feet from a property line.
d.
A porte-cochere may be permitted to encroach in the front or corner lot side setback to the right-of-way.
e.
If porches, steps, platforms, carports, landing places, and other similar projections extend into minimum required yards, they shall not be enclosed or temporarily enclosed nor shall the open sides be blocked by such contraptions as shades.
f.
Chimneys may project up to thirty (30) inches into any yard.
g.
Flag poles and light poles are not subject to front yard setbacks.
h.
A carport which is designed with no walls on all sides may be permitted with a minimum ten (10) foot setback along any street frontage and a minimum three (3) foot setback along all other property lines.
i.
An attached or detached carport or garage may be permitted within the rear and side yard setbacks along an alley to permit parking from the alley.
j.
A child's playhouse, recreational equipment, and clotheslines are not subject to side and rear yard setbacks.
Section 42-323 Obstructions.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following Section is intended to establish regulations governing the placement of natural or man-made obstructions to vision.
a.
No building, wall, parking space, fence or other structure shall be constructed and no hedge, tree, shrub, or other growth or object of any kind shall be maintained in such location within the yard so as to obstruct the view of pedestrians and motorists.
b.
A clear sight triangle of a minimum of twenty-five (25) feet is required at all local street intersections and at all driveways.
c.
A clear sight triangle is determined by the City Engineer at all other street intersections.
d.
The City Engineer may determine that additional clear sight triangle distance is needed at any location.
Section 42-324 Setback Exceptions.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
A setback of twenty (20) feet is required for the rear yard in all residential districts along any arterial street.
2.
The required front or street side setback may be reduced to align with the frontages of the other adjacent existing buildings. However, in the usage of this provision, no front or street-side side setback shall be reduced to less than five (5) feet for interior lots and less than ten (10) feet for corner lots. If the required setback is reduced in this manner, the structure will be considered to be conforming to the setback provisions of this Chapter.
Section 42-325 Fences, Walls, And Hedges.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Fences not exceeding fifty percent (50%) screening and four (4) feet in height are permitted within all setbacks.
2.
Hedges, shrubbery, flowers or other similar vegetation planted to form a continuous line of growth shall not exceed a height of four (4) feet when located within the clear sight triangle for street intersections or driveways.
3.
Fences not exceeding seven (7) feet in height are permitted within the side and rear yard setbacks. Such fences are also permitted along the side yard adjacent to a street of a corner lot. Where such fence is located within a rear yard setback and adjacent to a collector or arterial road, the fence must be set back a minimum of two (2) feet from the property line to allow for landscaping, if desired.
4.
Fences are permitted to be located within utility easements, however, such fences may be removed to allow access to the easement. Removed fences may be replaced at the property owners' expense.
5.
A building permit is required for fences over seven (7) feet in height. Fences over seven (7) feet in height may be permitted outside the applicable zoning setbacks.
6.
A removable retaining wall which is four (4) in height or less may be permitted within any setback or utility easement.
7.
Retaining walls over four (4) feet in height and less than ten (10) feet in height may be permitted within a side or rear yard setback. Such walls are not permitted within any easements. A building permit is required for such walls.
8.
Retaining walls over ten (10) feet in height are not permitted along a property frontage. Grade changes over ten (10) feet may be accomplished through separate retaining walls with a minimum five (5) foot landscaped area between the walls. Such landscaping must include hedges and/or shrubs planted to create a spacing of not more than three (3) feet at maturity. The Community Development Director may approve a wall that is designed to have the landscaping incorporated with the wall.
9.
Property owners may not use the following materials for fencing:
a.
Cast-off, secondhand, or other items not originally intended to be used for constructing or maintaining a fence;
b.
Plywood less than five eighths (5/8) inches thick and/or plywood not of a grade approved for exterior use, particle board, paper, visqueen plastic, plastic tarp, or sheet metal;
c.
Electrified fencing, barbed wire, razor wire, and other similar fencing materials capable of inflicting significant physical injury, unless used in a commercial or manufacturing zoning district for security fencing or on property containing livestock if approved for use by the Community Development Director.
10.
All wooden fencing shall be installed finished-side facing out to any adjoining lot or street.
Section 42-330 Landscaping, Screening, And Buffer yards.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
To encourage the most appropriate land use and protect the privacy and property values of adjacent permitted uses, regulations are prescribed herein for the location and type of various screening devices to be used when required by this Division.
2.
These regulations provide standards and criteria for landscaping in all new construction projects which are intended to enhance the value of property, provide buffers between dissimilar uses, improve the physical appearance of the City and maintain an ecological balance. Landscaping and buffer-yards are intended to lessen the adverse impacts of more intense land uses when they are adjacent to less intense uses.
3.
Property owners shall be responsible for maintaining the required screening materials in a neat and orderly manner at all times. Plant materials which die shall be replaced with healthy plant materials of similar variety and meeting the size requirements of this Section.
Section 42-331 Parking Lot Screening.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Where an open off-street parking area for any use contains five (5) or more off-street parking spaces and is adjacent to an R-1, U-R, or R-2 District, a screening fence, berm, or evergreen hedge of a minimum of four (4) feet in height is required to screen the off-street parking area from the adjacent residential district.
2.
Where an open off-street parking area for a non-residential use is in or adjacent to any residential district, a screening fence, berm, or evergreen hedge of a minimum of four (4) feet in height is required to screen the parking area from the adjacent residential district.
Section 42-332 Parking Lot Landscaping.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The interior and perimeter of parking lots shall be landscaped in accordance with the following criteria. Lots of one (1) acre or less shall be exempted from this regulation as are parking areas which are located under, on, or within buildings, and parking garage structures.
1.
Development sites containing parking areas totaling one hundred (100) or more parking spaces shall provide a minimum landscape area of ten (10) square feet per parking space for planting islands or strips within or adjacent to the parking lot; additional requirements include:
a.
All landscape areas shall be protected from vehicular encroachment or overhang through appropriate wheel stops or curbs;
b.
There shall be a minimum of two (2) under-story trees or one (1) canopy tree planted for each thirty (30) parking spaces, or fraction thereof; and
c.
Interior parking areas shall contain planting islands or strips located so as to best relieve the expense of paving. Interior planting areas shall be a minimum of one hundred (100) square feet for each under-story tree and two hundred (200) square feet for each canopy tree dimensioned in such a way as to provide a suitable area for planting. Planting strips must have a minimum width of five (5) feet.
2.
Perimeter landscaping shall be provided where a parking lot is within twenty (20) feet of a public right-of-way line or residential district and there is not an intervening building. Whenever a parking lot abuts a public right-of-way, a perimeter landscape area of at least five (5) feet in depth shall be maintained on private property and may include any required setback area. All necessary access ways shall be permitted through all such landscaping areas. Whenever a parking lot abuts a residential district the parking lot must be screened either by a privacy fence, berm, or hedge to a height of six (6) feet. Landscaping must include a minimum of four (4) canopy, understory, or evergreen trees for each one hundred (100) feet.
Section 42-333 Landscaping, Screening, And Fencing Standards.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Property owners may elect to use permanent material such as wood, chain link, stone, brick, decorative wrought iron, concrete block or other materials that are similar in durability to satisfy screening and fencing requirements.
2.
A landscaped earthen berm of at least six (6) feet in height may be used to satisfy screening requirements.
3.
An evergreen hedge may be used if the shrubs or trees measure at least four (4) feet in height at the time of planting and are of a species which has a mature height of at least six (6) feet in height and form a continuous, solid, visual screen.
4.
Existing trees and vegetation may be retained to fully or partially satisfy the screening requirements if approved by the Development Services Director. Such screening area must be a minimum of twenty (20) feet in width.
5.
Landscape buffers and landscape areas must be planted with grass, shrubbery, trees, and/or other ornamental vegetation. The use of gravel or rocks is permitted for ornamentation, but may not constitute more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the landscape area.
6.
Strict compliance with these landscaping requirements shall not be required if it would cause visibility obstructions, particularly at intersections.
7.
Plantings in utility easements shall be limited to ornamental or under-story trees, shrubs and hedges. In this instance, each required canopy tree shall be replaced with two (2) ornamental or under-story trees to reduce conflicts with overhead utilities. Plantings in or adjacent to a utility easement shall be coordinated with the effected utility company.
8.
Potted plants or other forms of decoration may be considered to replace or reduce the landscaping and buffering requirements on a case-by-case basis if compliance with the requirements is impractical due to existing site conditions.
Section 42-334 Required Screening.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
The City may require screening and fencing up to seven (7) feet in height for outside storage and display areas in non-residential districts in addition to or in lieu of the requirements of this Section to effectively mask the specified area.
2.
Dumpsters which may be visible from the adjacent residential property lines or streets shall be visually screened by a solid fence or wall, not less than the height of the refuse storage containers, on all sides.
Section 42-335 Buffer-Yards.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Buffer-yards shall be required as shown on the Table of Buffer-Yard Requirements. A buffer-yard shall be provided for a proposed development when it will be located in a zoning district listed in the left-most column of the table and the development is adjacent to a zoning district listed across the top of the table.
2.
Buffer-yards are not required if there is an intervening public street between the districts with a right-of-way width of fifty (50) feet or more or if a railroad right-of-way separates the two (2) districts.
3.
All or a portion of the buffer-yard requirements may be waived if only a portion of a property is developed and the developed area is greater than fifty (50) feet from the adjacent property.
4.
All or a portion of a buffer-yard may be used to satisfy a required setback, but in no instance shall parking spaces or outside storage/display be permitted in a buffer-yard.
5.
Buffer-yards are defined in terms of the number of plant units required for each one hundred (100) linear feet. The number of plant materials required shall be rounded up when a fraction is calculated.
6.
The minimum buffer-yard width may be reduced by fifty percent (50%) if the property owner elects to install a six (6) foot solid wood fence, a six (6) foot solid masonry/brick wall or a six (6) foot solid evergreen hedge for buffer yards A, B, C, and D. The fence may be reduced to four (4) feet in the front setback to comply with the fence regulations.
7.
Buffer-yard C and D also require the installation of a six (6) foot solid wood fence, a six (6) foot solid masonry/brick wall or a six (6) foot solid evergreen hedge. The required evergreen trees and half of the shrubs must be planted between the fence and the adjacent property. The fence may be set back from the property line to allow adequate space for landscaping.
Table of Buffer-Yard Requirements | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zoning on Adjacent Property | ||||||||||
Zoning District | R-1 | R-2 | U-R | R-3 | R-4 | C-1 | C-2 | C-C | M | P |
R-1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | |
R-2 | A | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
U-R | A | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
R-3 | B | A | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
R-4 | C | B | A | A | — | — | — | — | — | — |
C-1 | B | A | A | A | A | — | — | — | — | A* |
C-2 | C | B | A | A | A | — | — | — | — | B* |
C-C | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
M | D | D | D | D | D | C | B | B | — | D* |
P | ** | ** | ** | ** | ** | — | — | — | — | — |
* | The buffer-yard may be waived by the Community Development Director if it is determined that buffering is not needed. |
** | A buffer-yard may be required by the Planning and Zoning Commission depending on the type of development and location. |
Required plantings per 100 linear feet | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Buffer-yard | Canopy Trees | Under-Story Trees | Evergreen Trees | Shrubs | Screening | Minimum Width |
A | 1 | 1 | 1 | 10 | N/A | 15 |
B | 2 | 2 | 2 | 15 | N/A | 20 |
C | 3 | 3 | 4 | 20 | Yes | 25 |
D | 4 | 4 | 5 | 20 | Yes | 50 |
Section 42-336 General Standards For Trees.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
Trees referred to in this Section shall be of a species common to or adapted to this area of Missouri as documented by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Caliper measurements shall be taken six (6) inches above grade. Trees shall have the following characteristics:
a.
Canopy trees shall be deciduous trees that have a minimum height of thirty (30) feet at maturity. All canopy trees shall have a minimum caliper diameter of one and one-half (1 1/2) inches at the time of planting.
b.
Under-story trees shall be deciduous trees that have a maximum height of less than thirty (30) feet at maturity. All under-story trees shall have a minimum caliper diameter of one (1) inch at time of planting.
c.
Ornamental trees shall be flowering deciduous trees. All ornamental trees shall have a minimum caliper width of one (1) inch at time of planting.
d.
Evergreen or conifer trees shall have a minimum height of twenty (20) feet at maturity. All evergreen trees shall be at least six (6) feet high at time of planting.
e.
Smaller trees may be substituted where the applicant establishes that the location of driveways or unique physical characteristics of the property would not allow the plantings as required.
Section 42-340 Signage.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
The purposes of these sign regulations are:
a.
To encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication in Rolla;
b.
To maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment and the City's ability to attract sources of economic development and growth;
c.
To promote pedestrian and traffic safety;
d.
To minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on the enjoyment and economic value of nearby public or private property;
e.
To preserve the right of free speech and expression; and
f.
To enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these restrictions.
2.
When the word "sign" or "signs" is used in this Division it may also be referring to patio furniture, merchandise, and decorations.
3.
Where this Division is silent, or where the rules of this Division do not provide a basis for concluding that a sign is allowed, said sign is therefore prohibited.
4. BANNER CHANGEABLE COPY SIGNa. b. ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER OR SIGN (EMC) FEATHER FLAGS (Also known as advertising flags, flag banners, swooper flags, flutter flags, blade flags, sail flags, bow flags, or tear drop flags) FLAG FLASHING SIGNS FREESTANDING SIGNSa. b. c. FRONTAGE, BUILDING FRONTAGE, PROPERTY ILLUMINATED SIGN ILLUMINATIONa. b. INFLATABLE SIGN INTERNAL SIGNS MECHANICAL MOVEMENT SIGN MURAL OFF-PREMISES SIGN (Also known as a third-party sign, billboard, or outdoor advertising) ON-PREMISES SIGN PERMANENT SIGN PORTABLE SIGNa. b. PREMISES PROJECTING SIGN (Also known as a blade sign) REVOLVING SIGN ROOF SIGN SIGN SIGN AREA OR FACEa. b. c. d. e. f. g. SIGN COPY SIGN HEIGHTa. b. SIGN TYPES SNIPE SIGN (ALSO KNOWN AS BANDIT SIGN) STRUCTURAL ALTERATION TEMPORARY SIGN VEHICULAR SIGN WALL SIGN (Also known a fascia sign, parallel wall sign, or band sign) ZONING DISTRICT, NON-RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICT, RESIDENTIAL
The following definitions apply to this Section of the Zoning Code:
Any cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or similar non-rigid material attached to any structure, staff, pole, rope, wire, or framing that is anchored on two (2) or more edges or at all four (4) corners, or by one (1) edge when not on a pole or staff. Banners do not include flags.
A sign with the capability of content change by means of manual or remote input, includes the following types:
MANUALLY ACTIVATEDChangeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed manually on a display surface.
ELECTRICALLY ACTIVATEDChangeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed by means of remote electrically energized on-off switching combinations of alphabetic or pictographic components arranged on a display surface.
An electrically activated changeable sign whose variable message and/or graphic presentation capability can be electronically programmed by computer from a remote location. EMCs typically use light emitting diodes (LEDs) as a lighting source. Any reference to EMC also refers to electrically activated changeable copy signs.
These advertising tools come in the form of a long, narrow, lightweight canvas or other non-rigid material that is attached to a flexible pole (generally) that can be placed into the ground or attached to a weighted stand that allows them to be portable. The shape of the canvas usually resembles a feather or tear drop or a sail with its long side attached to the pole and perpendicular to the ground. Feather flags are temporary in nature and do not include flags or banners.
Any sign printed or painted on cloth, plastic, canvas, or other like material with distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols and is attached to a pole or staff and anchored along only one (1) edge or supported or anchored at only two (2) corners.
Signs whose illumination is characterized by a repetitive cycle in which the period of illumination is either the same as or less than the period of non-illumination. Generally, a message is continuously repeated, with the sign used as an attention-getting device.
A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on, or anchored in the ground; and that is independent and detached from any building or other structure. The following are subtypes of freestanding signs:
GROUND SIGN (Also known as monument sign)A sign permanently affixed to the ground at its base, supported entirely by a base structure, and not mounted on a pole or attached to any part of a building.
POLE SIGNA freestanding sign that is permanently supported in a fixed location by a structure of one (1) or more poles, posts, uprights, or braces from the ground and not supported by a building or a base structure. This definition includes pylon signs.
TEMPORARY FREESTANDING SIGNA freestanding sign that is not anchored in the ground or supported by a structure that is anchored in the ground or a freestanding sign that is easily removed from the ground by hand, such as h-frame lawn signs. This type of sign does not include balloon signs, inflatable signs, feather banners, sandwich board signs, vehicular signs, animated/electronic signs, mechanical movement signs, or revolving signs.
The length of an exterior building wall or structure of a single premises along the public's rights-of-way.
The length of the property line(s) of any single premises along a public street. When the word "frontage" is used alone, it refers to property frontage.
A sign with electrical equipment installed for illumination, either internally illuminated through its sign face by a light source contained inside the sign or externally illuminated by a light source aimed at its surface.
A source of any artificial or reflected light, either directly from a source of light incorporated in, or indirectly from an artificial source.
EXTERNAL ILLUMINATIONArtificial light, located away from the sign, which lights the sign, the source of which may or may not be visible to persons viewing the sign from any street, sidewalk, or adjacent property.
INTERNAL ILLUMINATIONA light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. Message center signs, digital displays, and signs incorporating neon lighting shall not be considered internal illumination for the purposes of this Chapter.
A sign that is an air-inflated object, which may be of various shapes, made of flexible fabric, resting on the ground or structure and equipped with a portable blower motor that provides a constant flow of air into the device.
Any on-premises sign located entirely within a building.
A sign having parts that physically move rather than merely appear to move as might be found in a digital display. The physical movement may be activated electronically or by another means, but shall not include wind-activated movement, such as used for banners or flags. Mechanical movement signs do not include digital signs that have changeable, programmable displays.
A graphic which is painted directly to a wall or surface of a building.
An outdoor sign that contains a message or messages that directs attention to a specific business, product, service, event or activity, or other commercial or non-commercial activity, or contains a non-commercial message about something that is not sold, produced, manufactured, furnished, or conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located.
A sign that contains a message or messages and design that relates to an individual business, profession, product, service, event, point of view, or other commercial or non-commercial activity sold, offered, or conducted on the same property where the sign is located.
A sign attached or affixed to a building, window, or structure, or to the ground in a manner that enables the sign to resist environmental loads, such as wind, and that precludes ready removal or movement of the sign and its intended use appears to be indefinite.
Portable signs are signs that are designed to be transported or moved and not permanently attached to the ground, a building, or other structure. The following types of signs are portable signs.
SANDWICH BOARD SIGN (Also known as A-frame sign)A type of freestanding, portable, temporary sign consisting of two (2) faces connected and hinged at the top and its message is targeted to pedestrians. Includes a board sign on a stand instead of hinged.
VEHICULAR SIGNA sign affixed to a vehicle in such a manner that the sign is used primarily as a stationary advertisement for the business on which the vehicle sits or is otherwise not incidental to the vehicle's primary purpose.
The lot or lots, plots, portions, or parcels of land considered as a unit for a single use or development, whether owned or leased.
A building-mounted, double-sided sign with the two (2) faces generally perpendicular to the building wall. Signs and banners that hang from a canopy, awning, or roof shall be considered projecting signs.
A sign which revolves in a circular motion; rather than remaining stationary on its supporting structure.
A sign mounted on the main roof portion of a building or on the uppermost edge of a parapet wall of a building and which is wholly or partially supported by such building. When permitted, a roof sign will be considered a wall sign for the purpose of calculating maximum sign area.
Any device, structure, fixture, painting, emblem, or visual that uses words, graphics, colors, illumination, symbols, numbers, or letters for communicating a message. A sign includes the sign faces as well as any sign supporting structure
The area of a sign enclosed by the perimeter upon which sign copy is placed. The computation details are described below:
Where the sign consists of individual letters, designs, or symbols that are attached individually and directly upon a wall without a change in color or appearance of the surface background, the area shall be that of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters, designs, and symbols.
In the case of panel or cabinet type signs, the sign area shall include the entire area of the sign panel or cabinet upon which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated, but not open space between separate panels or cabinets.
In the case of sign copy enclosed within a painted or illuminated boarder, or displayed on a background contrasting in color with the color of the building or structure, the sign face shall comprise the area within the contrasting background, or within the painted or illuminated border.
Only one (1) side of a double-sided sign shall be considered when determining the sign area if the faces are equal in size and the interior angle formed by the faces is zero degrees (0°).
Where the faces of a double-sided sign are not equal in size, but the interior angle formed by the faces is zero degrees (0°), the larger sign face shall be used as the basis for calculating sign area.
When the interior angle of a double-sided sign formed by the faces is greater than zero degrees (0°), all sides of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area.
The sign area for signs that are (or include) a three-dimensional object is calculated as the sum of two (2) adjacent vertical faces of the smallest cube encompassing the sign or object.
The letters, figures, characters, representations, pictures or wording on a sign, including any identification, description, symbol, trademark, object, design, logo, illustration, or device comprising the content or message of a sign; or any emblem or painting designed to advertise, communicate, identify, or convey information.
The vertical dimension of a sign. The computation details and relevant regulations are as follows:
Sign height shall be measured as the distance from the highest portion of the sign to the mean finished grade of the street closest to the sign. In the case of a sign located greater than one hundred (100) feet from a public street, height shall be measured to the mean grade at the base of the sign.
Clearance shall be measured as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the sign, including any framework or other structural elements that project from the wall.
Signs are divided into various types of signs. Signs may be a permanent sign or a temporary sign. A sign may be an on-premises sign or an off-premises sign. A permanent sign may be a wall sign, a freestanding sign, a roof sign, an EMC, or a projecting sign. A temporary sign may be a portable sign or a banner. Signs can also be classified by their characteristics, such as a flashing sign or an illuminated sign.
A sign tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued, or otherwise attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences, public benches, streetlights, or other objects, or placed on any public property or in the public's rights-of-way or on any private property without the permission of the property owner.
Any alteration to the structure which supports a sign, including the foundation and support poles. Such definition does not include replacement of the sign cabinet, sign boards, supports for the sign boards, or routine maintenance.
A sign that cannot be defined as a permanent sign.
A vehicle or mechanical contraption that has signage integrated or attached and is situated such that it cannot be considered to be a freestanding sign; and not including operable vehicles primarily and actively used for business purposes and/or personal transportation.
A building-mounted sign, which is either attached to or displayed on an exterior wall in a manner parallel with the wall surface. A sign or banner installed on a roof, eave, canopy, or awning in a manner parallel with the structures surface is also considered a wall sign. See projecting signs for signs that hang from such structures.
C-1, C-2, C-C, M, and P Districts.
R-1, R-2, U-R, R-3, and R-4 Districts.
Section 42-341 Exempt Signs.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following signs are exempt from the provisions of this Section, unless otherwise noted, but must conform to all other Federal, State, and local codes/rules, including Building Codes:
a.
Any sign that is posted by a governmental unit on government property and any sign required by local, State, or Federal law.
b.
Signs that are less than ten (10) feet in height if the sign face is not visible from any street.
c.
In non-residential districts, any sign less than seven (7) feet in height and that is more than one hundred (100) feet away from any lot line fronting a street or not visible from any street.
d.
In non-residential districts, if the signs are four (4) square feet or less in area and four (4) feet or less in height, and located adjacent to the driveway(s) serving the property and outside the street right-of-way.
e.
Flags. This provision does not include banners or feather flags. However, flags and supporting structures that lawfully project into the public rights-of-way shall not hang below seven (7) feet in height over a sidewalk.
f.
Internal signs, including lettering painted on or attached to a window or door and window signs located inside a building, but excluding flashing signs that do not conform to the regulations of this Division related to electronic message center signs.
g.
A sign that is integrated into or on a menu board, coin-operated machine, credit-card machine, vending machine, gasoline pump, gasoline station canopy, or telephone booth.
h.
Signs carved into a building or raised in integral relief on a building.
i.
Murals.
Section 42-342 Prohibited Signs.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following signs are prohibited:
a.
Flashing signs.
b.
Signs that employ pyrotechnic or blue casting components and signs that emit smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, or odor.
c.
Signs that employ any searchlights or strobe lights and reflective signs or signs containing mirrors.
d.
Signs that may be confused with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal, or device, or the light of an emergency vehicle or road equipment by reason of their size, location, movement, coloring, or manner of illumination.
e.
Signs that shield from view any traffic control device, sign, signal or other government sign.
f.
Snipe signs.
g.
Vehicular signs.
h.
Signs which do not meet the requirements of this Section or other City, State, or Federal laws.
Section 42-343 General Sign Provisions.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
On-Premises Signage. Signage, except as authorized by this Section and signs authorized by Federal and State law, shall only be on-premises signage.
2.
Permitting Exceptions. The following operations shall not require the issuance of a sign permit:
a.
Changing the copy on an existing conforming sign that has not been discontinued and that is specifically designed for the use of manually or digitally activated changeable copy sign, including billboard panels and posters; but not including changes in the structure, size, placement, or location of the sign.
b.
Maintenance, including repainting, cleaning, or other normal repair of an existing sign not involving structural alterations or changes in size, location, or placement.
c.
Window signs and wall signs less than twenty (20) square feet in size.
3.
Permitting Process. Except for exempt signs, all permanent signs require the submission and approval of an application for a sign permit and a sign site plan. Applications for sign permits or supporting material, such as elevations, shall indicate the type, number, size, shape, and dimensions of all of the existing and proposed signage on the premises. If needed, elevation views or other relevant information may be required. No sign permits shall be issued if the premises requesting the permit contains a prohibited sign.
4.
Site Plan Requirements. Sign site plans for detached signage shall be provided as follows:
a.
The site plan shall be drawn to scale or shall show the dimensions of all relevant objects/elements and show all the distances between all of the relevant objects/elements.
b.
The site plan shall indicate the property lines of the premises and, in cases whereby signs are being placed in the rights-of-way, the site plan shall indicate the type of ROW surface, the location of the curbline, the sidewalk, and any objects within the ROW in front of the property subject to the proposal.
c.
The site plan shall show the proposed location of each sign in relation to property lines, nearby buildings, walkways, streets, driveways and parking areas.
5.
Sign Location And ROW. All signs and other objects regulated by or exempt from this Division, including merchandise, patio furniture, sign structures, flags, decorations, and temporary signs, must be erected/placed and attached totally on or within private property, except that if a tenant space is located in a non-residential zoning district along a street and there is less than five (5) feet between the full building frontage of the tenant space and the street, certain types of signs and other objects may be placed in or project over the street right-of-way, but not in or over any roadway. The following provisions listed below describe the applicability and the restrictions of such an allowance:
a.
Only wall signs, flags, and projecting signs shall be permitted to project over sidewalks. The minimum clearance of such objects shall be seven (7) feet and the object shall not occupy space beyond a vertical plane of two (2) feet from the curb line.
b.
Only patio furniture, merchandise, and sandwich board signs are permitted on sidewalks. The maximum height for such signs/objects shall be five (5) feet.
c.
One (1) flag or temporary freestanding sign may be located in each City-owned flowerpot if the sign is less than two (2) square feet in area, the object does not exceed five (5) feet in height when in the flowerpot, the flowerpot is watered and maintained by the tenant, and those flowerpots are on a public sidewalk and abut the tenant space responsible for locating such a sign in said flowerpot.
d.
Temporary and portable signage on sidewalks are subject to additional requirements in this Section.
6.
Permission. The party constructing/installing/placing the sign or object on private property is responsible for obtaining the permission of the property owner before such action is taken.
7.
Setbacks. All signs, including temporary signs and exempt signs but not including signage which is allowed within street rights-of-way, shall conform to the side and rear setback requirements of the zoning district they are located in. No setback applies to a front yard or along any street. However, no sign over ten (10) feet in height is permitted within or over a utility easement. In addition, signs must not impair the sight distance requirements for driveways or street intersections.
8.
Sign Sounds. No sign that emits sound shall be permitted in or within one hundred (100) feet of a residential zoning district, not including zoned rights-of-way.
9.
Illumination. Externally lit signs shall be illuminated only with steady, stationary, and shielded light sources directed solely onto the sign. The illumination of signs shall not be brighter than is necessary for clear and adequate visibility. Illumination shall not exceed approximately seven hundred fifty (750) cd/m2 or Nits at night. The illumination of signs shall not be of such intensity or brilliance as to impair the vision of a motor vehicle driver with average eyesight or to otherwise interfere with the driver's operation of a motor vehicle.
10.
Roof Signs And Sign Placement. In no instance shall a wall sign or projecting sign project above the eave line or beyond a wall edge, except for roof signs in the C-2 and C-C Zoning Districts. Roof signs shall not exceed the building height limit of the zoning district in which the sign is located.
11.
Maintenance. All signs, together with their supports, braces, connections, or anchors shall be kept in good repair. Unsafe signs, damaged, or deteriorated signs, or signs in danger of breaking apart or falling shall be removed or repaired.
12.
Obstructions.
a.
Fire Escapes, Means Of Egress Or Standpipes. Signs, sign structures and awnings are prohibited from being erected in any manner that interferes in any way with the free use of any fire escape, means of egress or standpipe. Attaching signs, sign structures or awnings to a fire escape is prohibited unless such a sign is required for safety.
b.
Obstruction Of Windows And Ventilation. Signs, sign structures and awnings are prohibited from being installed in any way that obstructs any building openings to such an extent that light, ventilation, or exhaust are reduced to a level below that required by either the Building Code, Plumbing Regulations, Heating and Ventilating Regulations, or Housing and Maintenance Regulations.
13.
Measurements. All lineal distances required by this Division shall be measured from the nearest outside edge of the subject sign, whether a support, structural member, or the sign surface itself, to the nearest outside edge of the corresponding sign, building, right-of-way, property line, easement, or other object/element involved.
14.
Changeable Copy. Changeable copy, whether digitally or manually activated, is permitted only if it is integrated into a pole, ground, marquee, projecting, or wall sign. In addition, only manually activated changeable copy is permitted on sandwich board signs.
Section 42-344 Sign Regulations For Residential Zoning Districts.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Sign standards for properties within residential zoning districts:
a.
Type. Any wall sign or freestanding sign. No sign is permitted to have changeable copy. Off-premises temporary signage shall not be posted for more than fourteen (14) consecutive days in any given quarter of a year and such signage shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of receiving notice from the City of Rolla.
b.
Number And Sign Area. If the total sign area of all signs does not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet, there is no limit on the number of signs permitted.
c.
Height. Freestanding signs shall be less than six (6) feet in height and wall signs shall not project higher than the lowest eave line.
2.
Sign standards for residentially-zoned properties that serve as the entrance/exit ways to subdivisions, contain multi-family complexes or condominium complexes, or contain permitted or non-conforming non-residential uses:
a.
Type. Any wall sign or freestanding sign. Off-premise temporary signage shall not be posted for more than fourteen (14) consecutive days in any given quarter of a year and such signage shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of receiving notice from the City of Rolla.
b.
Number And Sign Area. One (1) wall sign is permitted on each building and one (1) ground or pole sign is permitted per entrance/exit to a public street or, in the case of a subdivision, per entrance/exit to the subdivision. The maximum sign area of any one (1) permanent sign is sixty-four (64) square feet. An unlimited amount of temporary freestanding signs is permitted if the total sign area of all temporary freestanding signs does not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
c.
Height. Ground and pole signs shall be limited to a maximum height of fifteen (15) feet. Temporary freestanding signs shall be limited to six (6) feet in height.
Section 42-345 Sign Regulations For Non-Residential Zoning Districts.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
General Provisions. Each building, not individual tenants, are permitted a maximum amount of area for wall signs. The owner(s) of the premises may divide and distribute the allowable sign area in any way she/he/they chooses. It is the responsibility of the person/entity posting the sign to obtain permission from the owner to install/locate a sign of a certain size on the owner's property.
2.
Sign Standards For Properties Located In C-1 And C-C Districts.
a.
Type. Pole signs, ground signs, projecting signs, and wall signs shall be permitted. Roof signs are permitted in the C-C District.
b.
Number. Each premises is permitted an unlimited amount of wall signs and is permitted one (1) projecting sign for each tenant space. In addition, all premises are permitted one (1) permanent freestanding sign (i.e., ground signs and pole signs) for each one hundred (100) feet of road frontage if there is a distance of five hundred (500) feet or more between pole signs with a minimum of one (1) sign allowed for each lot frontage.
c.
Sign Area. Maximum wall sign area shall be determined by multiplying the lineal feet of building wall by two (2) square feet. Projecting signs shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet in area, regardless of the amount of other signage on the premises. Each pole or ground sign shall be limited to one hundred (100) square feet each.
d.
Height And Clearance. Ground and pole signs shall be limited to a maximum height of twenty (20) feet. Projecting signs shall have a minimum clearance of seven (7) feet.
3.
Sign Standards Properties Located In C-2, M, Or P Zoning Districts.
a.
Type. Pole signs, ground signs, projecting signs, and wall signs shall be permitted. Mechanical movement and revolving signs are also permitted. In addition, roof signs are only permitted in C-2 Zoning Districts and such signs will be considered wall signs in the calculation of maximum sign area. If a mechanical movement or revolving sign is attached to a building it will be considered a projecting sign and if such signs are not connected to a building, they will be considered a permanent freestanding sign (i.e., ground signs and pole signs).
b.
Number. Each premises is permitted an unlimited amount of wall signs and is permitted one (1) projecting sign for each tenant space. In addition, all premises are permitted one (1) permanent freestanding sign (i.e., ground signs and pole signs) for each one hundred (100) feet of road frontage if there is a distance of five hundred (500) feet or more between pole signs with a minimum of one (1) sign allowed for each lot frontage.
c.
Sign Area. Maximum wall sign area shall be determined by multiplying the lineal feet of building wall by four (4) square feet. Projecting signs shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet in area, regardless of the amount of other signage on the premises. Each pole or ground sign shall be limited to four hundred (400) square feet each.
d.
Height And Clearance. Ground and pole signs shall be limited to a maximum height of forty (40) feet.
Section 42-346 Temporary and Portable Signs.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following provisions apply to non-residential zoning districts only. The following restrictions apply to temporary and portable sign placement/installation/construction:
1.
Each independently occupied tenant space on a property in a non-residential district is permitted to locate two (2) temporary signs on such a property, except that when a tenant locates a balloon sign or inflatable sign on the property, the tenant shall not locate any other temporary or portable sign on the property. Off-premise temporary signage shall not be posted for more than fourteen (14) consecutive days in any given quarter of a year and such signage shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of receiving notice from the City of Rolla. A vacant parcel shall be permitted an unlimited number of temporary freestanding signs only, but the total sign area of such signs shall not exceed ninety-six (96) square feet.
5.
General Restrictions.
a.
The party posting the temporary sign is solely responsible for obtaining the permission of the property owner before posting their temporary sign.
b.
Except for movement caused by air compressors for inflatable signs, mechanical motion, illumination, EMC technology, and electronically activated changeable copy is prohibited.
c.
Manual changeable copy is only permitted when integrated into a sandwich board sign.
d.
No temporary or portable sign that is more than seven (7) feet tall shall be permitted within one hundred (100) feet of a residential zoning district.
6.
Sidewalk Restrictions. If permitted by this Section, the following restrictions apply:
a.
If signs are permitted on sidewalks, signs shall only be located on the sidewalk space that abuts the tenant space that is permitted to locate such signs on such sidewalks.
b.
No object shall obstruct a continuous through pedestrian zone of at least five (5) feet in width.
c.
Sandwich board signs that are on a public sidewalk shall be located within twelve (12) feet of the primary public entrance of the tenant's establishment.
d.
Sandwich board signs shall be weighted, temporarily secured, or strategically placed to avoid being carried away by high winds.
e.
Sandwich board signs and merchandise shall not be displayed on any sidewalk during hours of non-operation.
f.
No signs shall obstruct pedestrian and wheelchair access from the sidewalk to parking spaces or access ramps designated for people with disabilities or building exits, including fire escapes.
7.
Installation And Maintenance.
a.
All signs/objects must be installed such that, in the opinion of Rolla's Building Official, they do not create a safety hazard.
b.
All signs must be made of durable materials and shall be well maintained. Signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are no longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
c.
Owner or tenant will be given one (1) warning for violating any of the provisions pertaining to temporary/portable signs. After the initial warning, all subsequent violations may result in the issuance of a citation without any further notice in perpetuity.
Section 42-347 Off-Premises Sign (Third-Party Sign, Billboard, Or Outdoor Advertising).
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
Permanent off-premise signage shall comply with all the requirements of this Section and shall only be permitted upon property having frontage on either Interstate 44, Highway 63, Highway 72, or Kingshighway and zoned C-2 or M. Within areas zoned Planned Unit Development District Overlay, or property in any zoning district upon which a conditional use permit has been issued in the above mentioned corridors, such advertising structures shall only be permitted when specifically authorized upon the final development plan or permit approval.
1.
Area, Height, Location — I-44.
a.
The maximum height of a billboard along Interstate 44 shall not exceed forty-five (45) feet. No part of structure shall extend below fifteen (15) feet.
b.
The maximum surface area along Interstate 44 shall be six hundred seventy-two (672) square feet with a maximum sign height of twenty (20) feet and a maximum sign width of forty-eight (48) feet. The sign shall be limited to two (2) signs in each direction with one (1) message per sign. In no case will the total sign surface in any one (1) direction exceed six hundred seventy-two (672) square feet.
c.
Sign spacing along I-44 shall be five hundred (500) lineal feet per side of the highway.
2.
Area, Height, Location — Hwy. 63, Hwy. 72, And Kingshighway.
a.
The maximum height of a billboard along Highway 63, Highway 72, and Kingshighway shall be thirty (30) feet. The maximum surface area of a billboard along Highway 63, Highway 72, and Kingshighway shall be one hundred ninety-two (192) square feet surface on each side with a maximum sign height of twelve (12) feet and a maximum sign width of twenty-four (24) feet. Such signs must have a minimum clearance of fifteen (15) feet.
b.
Sign spacing along Highway 63, Highway 72, and Kingshighway shall be one thousand (1,000) lineal feet per side.
c.
No sign shall be located within one thousand (1,000) feet of a residential zoning district which fronts on the same road as the proposed sign.
d.
The minimum front yard setback for such signs shall be fifteen (15) feet from any public right-of-way, and/or private roadway easement. The maximum setback for such sign shall be fifty (50) feet from the public right-of-way.
3.
Restrictions For All Highways.
a.
External lighting of billboards are permitted, provided the light source is directed upon the face of the sign and is effectively shielded so as to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed toward any residential structure or into any portion of the main travel way. The lights are not permitted to be of such intensity so as to interfere with the residential use of property or to cause glare, impair the vision of the driver of a motor vehicle, or otherwise interfere with a driver's operation of a motor vehicle.
b.
No part of any billboard shall be located on or project over any public street or private utility easement, drainage easement, or railroad right-of-way.
Section 42-348 Electronic Message Center Signs.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
In non-residential zones, electronic message centers (EMCs), which includes electronically activated changeable copy signs and signs that imitate movement through electronic means, are permitted in accordance with the permitted sign area regulations of the district in which the sign is located. The following restrictions apply:
a.
With the exception of flashing signs and full motion video or film display via an electronic file imported into the EMC software or streamed in real time into the EMC, EMC display features and functions are permitted in non-residential zoning districts only.
b.
No EMCs are permitted within one hundred (100) feet of any residential zone.
c.
An EMC sign may be a portion or comprise the entirety of the sign face of a wall sign, pole sign, ground sign, or projecting sign.
d.
All EMC signs shall have automatic dimming controls, either by photocell (hardwired) or via software settings, in order to bring the EMC lighting level at night into compliance with sign illumination standards of this Section.
e.
An off-premises sign can be constructed as, or converted into, an EMC if the sign structure meets all requirements of the Sign Code.
Section 42-349 Non-Conforming Signs.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
Non-conforming signs are signs that do not conform to this Section, yet were legally established prior to the adoption of this Section. The burden of proof will be on the property owner to show that the sign was legally established. Non-conforming signs may continue to exist after passage of this Section if they maintain their non-conforming status. Non-conforming signs are permitted to be removed and/or changed in accordance with the provisions of this Section:
a.
Permanent signs and sign structures that are moved, removed, replaced, or structurally altered must be brought into conformance with the sign regulations. However, non-conforming signs required to be moved because of public right-of-way improvements may be reestablished. Removable faces or sign panel inserts in a cabinet style sign may also be changed.
b.
Once a sign is altered to conform or is replaced with a conforming sign, the non-conforming rights for that sign are lost and a non-conforming sign may not be reestablished.
c.
When a sign or sign structure is removed or intentionally destroyed, replacement signs and sign structures must comply with the current standards. However, if a sign or sign structure that has non-conforming elements is partially or totally damaged by fire or other causes beyond the control of the owner, the sign and sign structure may be rebuilt to the same size and height using the same materials.
d.
Once a sign loses its non-conforming status, it must be removed before any other permits for signs shall be issued for the premises on which the sign that has lost its non-conforming status exists.
e.
A sign may be replaced if the structure is in danger of an imminent failure which would cause danger to the general public, as determined by a structural engineer.
Section 42-350 Design Requirements.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following design requirements are intended to better help new buildings and development to be compatible with the existing surrounding properties in order to maintain property values and provide improved aesthetics.
Section 42-351 Townhouse Design Requirements.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
Buildings designed as townhouses are subject to the following design requirements:
a.
Buildings shall not exceed eight (8) units in length when fronting along a street;
b.
At least every sixty (60) linear feet, wall or roof planes shall contain offsets or setbacks of at least two (2) feet or by providing a front porch for each unit with a minimum depth of five (5) feet and a minimum width of eight (8) feet;
c.
A change in texture, material or the use of architectural features to differentiate individual units to ensure that buildings have a multi-faceted exterior in which building fronts are combined with window and door placements as well as other architectural details, such as the use of dormers, gabled roof front stoops, flower boxes, and or shutters may be used in-lieu of Subsection (b) above.
Section 42-360 Development Requirements.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
The following development requirements apply to all new development and redevelopment of property. General development requirements are intended to provide for orderly, predictable, and attractive development within the City.
Section 42-361 Sidewalks.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
Required. Sidewalks are required in the following circumstances. The sidewalk must be constructed to the minimum width stated.
a.
Sidewalks shall be required on both sides of the street on arterial and collector status streets as designated by the adopted Major Thoroughfare Plan. Such sidewalks shall be a minimum of five (5) feet in width.
b.
Sidewalks shall be required on both sides of the street adjacent to any property within the C-C, Center City district. Such sidewalks shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet in width. In instances where the distance between the right-of-way line and the edge of the pavement is less than ten (10) feet, the sidewalk shall be as wide as possible.
c.
Sidewalks shall be required on both sides of the street adjacent to any property within the R-3, Multi-Family; R-4, Urban; P, Public; C-1, Neighborhood Commercial; and C-2, General Commercial Zoning Districts. Such sidewalks shall be a minimum of five (5) feet in width.
d.
Sidewalks shall only be required on one (1) side of the street for local streets as identified in the adopted Major Thoroughfare Plan within the R-1, Single-Family; R-2, One- and Two-Family; and U-R, Urban Residential Zoning Districts. Such sidewalk shall be a minimum of five (5) feet in width. Such sidewalks shall be located on the north or east side of the street unless an alternative location is approved by an alternative sidewalk plan, PUD, or as determined by the Community Development Director to avoid placement conflicts. In the event that an adjoining property has a sidewalk, the sidewalk must be extended across the frontage of the subject property unless waived by the Community Development Director.
2.
Not Required. Sidewalks are not required or may be waived in the following circumstances:
a.
Sidewalks are not required on cul-de-sacs less than six hundred (600) feet in length with fifteen (15) or fewer lots or dwelling units.
b.
Sidewalks are not required on local streets adjacent to the M, Manufacturing District.
c.
Sidewalks are not required along designated Interstate highways.
d.
Sidewalks may be waived by the Planning and Zoning Commission on local streets in single-family residential large lot subdivisions. A large lot subdivision shall be defined as a subdivision with all lots of greater than twenty-five thousand (25,000) square feet in area.
e.
Sidewalks are not required for the construction of a one- or two-family structure in previously subdivided developments where both adjoining properties do not have sidewalks.
f.
Sidewalks may be waived where only a portion of a property is developed or redeveloped. In such case, sidewalks shall only be required adjacent to the portions of the property which are developed or redeveloped as determined by the Community Development Director. Sidewalks are not required for development projects that do not require any driveway modification or on-site concrete pavement.
g.
In the event that an existing sidewalk in good condition abuts the subject property, the Director of Public Works may waive the requirement to replace the sidewalk, or may authorize modifications to enhance ADA compliance. In all other situations, the existing sidewalk must be replaced with a compliant sidewalk.
h.
The Community Development Director may approve an alternative off-site location for a sidewalk in lieu of a sidewalk along the subject property frontage where such sidewalk would create enhanced pedestrian access to the neighborhood. Cost estimates for the sidewalk must demonstrate that the alternative location would be equal or greater in cost. Written authorization must be provided from the adjacent property owners.
i.
The Community Development Director may waive the requirement of providing a sidewalk in locations which are determined to be impractical and unneeded, such as sites which are more than two thousand (2,000) feet from the nearest existing sidewalk and not needed as part of the trails network.
j.
Sidewalks may be waived or required where an adopted neighborhood plan includes a plan for the locations of needed sidewalks in the subject area.
k.
The Board of Adjustment shall have the authority to waive the requirement for sidewalks through the approval of a variance.
3.
All commercial or multi-family development shall be provided with a designated ADA accessible route through the site to a public sidewalk where a sidewalk exists along an adjacent street. In such case that no public sidewalk exists, the Community Development Director may require such accessible route to a point to connect to a future or planned sidewalk.
4.
Sidewalks shall be constructed to City standards and inspected and approved by the Public Works Department, except that sidewalks constructed within the right-of-way along MoDOT controlled roadways require approval, inspection, and acceptance from MoDOT.
5.
The City of Rolla may participate in the cost of construction of sidewalks to close gaps in sidewalk connectivity, enhance ADA compliance, build wider sidewalks in the center City or for trails as indicated in the adopted Trails Master Plan, and construct pedestrian bridges or culverts to cross highways, railways, or waterways.
6.
Encroachments or narrowing of sidewalks for short distances may be permitted to allow for street trees, street signage, utility poles, utility meters, etc. In no case shall an encroachment or narrowing of a sidewalk reduce the width to less than four (4) feet or encroach for more than four (4) consecutive feet along the length of the sidewalk.
Section 42-362 Exterior Lighting Standards.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
The purpose of this Section is to regulate the spillover of light and glare on operators of motor vehicles, pedestrians, and land uses in the proximity of the light source. Safety considerations form the basis of these regulations pertaining to motor vehicle use. In other cases, both the nuisance and hazard aspects will be regulated. This Section is not intended to apply to public street lighting, signs, or seasonal displays.
2.
The following standards are required of all exterior lighting, subject only to the exemptions permitted in this Section:
a.
The light source or luminary for all exterior lighting shall have a cutoff so that the bare light bulb, lamp or light source is completely shielded from the direct view of an observer at ground level at the property line adjacent to property within a residential zoning district.
b.
No flickering or flashing lights shall be permitted.
c.
A photometric study may be required to be submitted for non-residential development which includes exterior lighting and is within or adjacent to a residential zoning district to demonstrate compliance with this Section.
d.
Spillover light may not exceed five tenths (0.5) foot-candle onto adjacent property in the R-1 or R-2 Districts; two (2) foot-candle onto adjacent property in other residential districts; or five (5.0) foot-candle onto public streets.
3.
The following exceptions apply to this Section:
a.
Outdoor Recreational Uses. Baseball diamonds, playing fields, and tennis courts shall be exempt from the exterior lighting standards because of their unique requirements for nighttime visibility and hours of operation.
b.
Private Outdoor Lights. Private outdoor lights installed by a public utility on private property for security purposes are exempt from the exterior lighting standards provided the installation is approved by all property owners of residential property from which the light source can be viewed.
c.
In Manufacturing Zoning Districts. Due to unique lighting requirements for some industrial or warehousing activities, exterior lighting shall be exempt from exterior lighting standards, except for parking lot lighting.
d.
Emergency Warning Lights. Safety signal and warning device lighting shall be exempt from the exterior lighting standards of this Section.
Section 42-363 Driveway Access.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
All existing tracts of record are guaranteed at least one (1) driveway to a public street or right-of-way, either directly or by access easement.
2.
On collector streets, one (1) driveway may be permitted for each one hundred (100) feet of lot frontage. Such driveways must be located a minimum of fifty (50) feet from the right-of-way of any intersecting street.
3.
On arterial streets, one (1) driveway may be permitted for each one hundred twenty-five (125) feet of lot frontage. Such driveways must be located a minimum of two hundred (200) feet from the right-of-way of any intersecting street. No driveway will be permitted for any lot with less than one hundred twenty-five (125) feet of lot frontage unless there are no other viable options for access as determined by the City Engineer.
4.
Approval of driveway locations is determined by the City Engineer. Locations may be denied based on other options for access, sight-distance, traffic levels, accident history, separation from adjacent or opposite driveways or streets, or impacts to public parking.
5.
Driveway approvals on MoDOT controlled roads also require approval from MoDOT.
6.
The maximum width of a driveway measured at the property line for residential uses is highly dependent on the location, use, and need for on-street parking. In general, the following widths may be approved:
a.
Single-family use in R-1 District: thirty-two (32) feet.
b.
Two-family use: forty (40) feet.
c.
Three-family and four-family dwellings: twenty-two (22) feet per unit, up to four (4) driveways.
d.
Other multi-family: Treated as commercial driveway.
e.
Locations in older areas of City: To be determined by City Engineer.
7.
The maximum width of a driveway may be divided between up to two (2) separate driveways for residential properties with one- or two-dwelling units. An additional driveway may be permitted for corner lots.
8.
The minimum width of a driveway measured at the property line for non-residential and multi-family uses is twelve (12) feet for a one (1) lane one-way driveway and twenty (20) feet for a two (2) lane driveway. The maximum width is fifteen (15) feet for a one-lane driveway; twenty-four (24) feet for a two-lane driveway; and thirty-four (34) feet for a driveway with an additional left turn exit lane. The City Engineer may approve wider driveways that primarily serve truck traffic.
9.
Unless no other access is possible, no additional driveways may be permitted on Lions Club Road between US 63 and Hwy 72. Where such driveway is necessary, the City Engineer may approve the minimum number of shared driveways necessary to provide access to all lots.
Section 42-364 Traffic Impact Analysis.
[Ord. No. 4762, 10-2-2023]
1.
A traffic impact analysis may be required for any new development that will generate one hundred (100) or more peak hour trips using current Institute of Traffic Engineers Trip Generation Manual, or accessing a street or road or near an intersection with a known level of service of D, E, or F.
2.
The following situations may trigger the requirement for a traffic impact analysis to be submitted:
a.
A subdivision plat which would/could result in greater than one hundred (100) dwelling units.
b.
Low rise multi-family with greater than one hundred seventy-nine (179) units.
c.
High rise multi-family with greater than two hundred seventy-eight (278) units.
d.
A hotel with greater than one hundred sixty-seven (167) rooms.
e.
A shopping center with greater than twenty-six thousand (26,000) square feet of gross floor area.
f.
A gas station with greater than two thousand (2,000) square feet of gross floor area.