Saint Charles City Zoning Code
ARTICLE XVI
Sign Regulations
Section 400.1370 Purpose.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025[1]
A.
This Article establishes a comprehensive and balanced system to regulate the location, type, size, height, number, duration of display, design, construction, installation, maintenance, and removal of signs to:
1.
Encourage the effective and efficient use of signs as a communication tool;
2.
Create an appealing Cityscape that is free of overly distracting visual clutter and nuisance signs;
3.
Enhance traffic safety and protect the public health, safety, and welfare; and
4.
Protect State and Federal constitutional rights to free speech.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Article XVI, Sign Regulations, containing Sections 400.1370 through 400.1860, was repealed by Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025. Prior history includes: R.O. 2009 §§ 156.610 — 156.670, 156.701 — 156.707, 156.709 — 156.716, 156.719 — 156.724, 156.726 — 156.728, 156.730, 156.732, 156.740 — 156.743, 156.750, 156.752, 156.754, 156.760, 156.762, 156.765, 156.770, 156.772, 156.774; R.O. 2011 §§ 400.1370 — 400.1580, 400.1600 — 400.1650, 400.1670 — 400.1690, 400.1720 — 400.1860; Ord. No. 02-172; Ord. No. 02-276; Ord. No. 05-46; Ord. No. 05-101; Ord. No. 05-236; Ord. No. 06-191; Ord. No. 06-341; Ord. No. 07-162; Ord. No. 08-95; Ord. No. 08-191; Ord. No. 09-42; Ord. No. 09-76; Ord. No. 09-211; Ord. No. 10-142; Ord. No. 10-244; Ord. No. 11-01; Ord. No. 11-42; Ord. No. 11-099; Ord. No. 11-100; Ord. No. 11-223; Ord. No. 11-252; Ord. No. 14-221; Ord. No. 15-178; Ord. No. 16-245; Ord. No. 17-262; Ord. No. 19-253; Ord. No. 20-102; Ord. No. 20-106; Ord. No. 21-065; and Ord. No. 22-160.
Section 400.1380 Applicability.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
This Article applies to all new and existing signs located in the City unless they are exempted by this Article or by Federal or State law.
B.
Permit Required. Except as otherwise provided in this Article, no sign shall be erected, enlarged, altered (except for normal maintenance), replaced, or relocated without obtaining a sign permit.
C.
Prohibited Signs. No sign shall be constructed, installed, operated, displayed, or otherwise used in a time, place, or manner that this Article prohibits.
E.
F.
Planned Developments. The City Council may vary the standards of this Article in the ordinance adopting a Planned Development District or in the approved regulating plan or SmartCode for the development. The sign standards of the ordinance, plan, or SmartCode take precedence over the standards of this Article.
Section 400.1390 Definitions.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
When used in this Article, the following terms have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
A non-porous object of light material that is filled with air or a gas lighter than air so that the object floats in the atmosphere at the end of a cable, wire, or rope. A balloon does not include an inflatable sign.
A permanent, off-premises sign or sign structure on which a person places copy on a poster or panel mounted on a pole or metal structure. Typically, a billboard has one (1) of the following configurations: (1) wood posts or pole supports with dimensional lumber as the secondary support (A-frame) with a wood or metal catwalk with display panels; (2) steel A-frame constructed with angle iron or steel supports with metal framing, catwalk, with display panels; (3) multi-mast structure constructed with steel poles, I-beam, or equivalent member as the primary support, with a catwalk, and display panels; or (4) monopole structure constructed with tubular steel support, tubular steel framing, metal catwalk and display panels with a concrete foundation.
A billboard upon which alphanumeric characters, graphics, or symbols defined by a small number of matrix elements using different combinations of light emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, light bulbs, or other illumination devices within the display area, including computer programmable, microprocessor controlled electronic displays and projected images or messages with these characteristics.
Director of Community Development or their designee.
A piece of durable fabric or other flexible material with distinctive colors and patterns mounted by attaching one (1) side to a freestanding or attached pole so that the wind causes the full display of the flag.
 Figure 1: Flag |
The Historic Landmarks Preservation and Architectural Review Board of the City of Saint Charles, Missouri.
The partial or complete illumination of a sign at any time by a light source shielded from a viewer on the ground.
The illumination of a sign with a light source located inside or behind the sign face that transmits light through a translucent sign face or surface surrounding the sign face.
A non-residential or mixed-use development that includes two (2) or more businesses, places, organizations, or persons on one (1) common development site. Examples include a commercial center, an office park, or a multi-story multi-tenant building.
A decorative hand-produced sign where paint or tile is applied to the exterior wall of a building or structure.
 Figure 2: Mural |
Any person or persons or entity, including, but not limited to, a corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, unincorporated association, or joint venture.
A powerful light or lights equipped with a reflector to produce a bright beam or beams that are directed into the sky and that may rotate.
A visual display of an object, device, or structure that includes elements such as colors, lights, motion, symbols, images, icons, letters, numerals, figures, characters, or combines any of those elements, that a person intends to communicate, advertise, identify, announce, direct, inform, or attract attention. The term "sign" includes a structure used to support or display a sign.
A temporary, portable, freestanding sign in the shape of the letter "A" when viewed from the side with back-to-back sign faces, an easel, or a similar configuration. Commonly referred to as a sandwich board sign.
 Figure 3. A-Frame Sign |
A permanent, on-premises sign that is printed, painted, or affixed to an awning.
 Figure 4 Awning Sign |
A sign painted, printed, or permanently affixed on cloth or other lightweight, flexible material.
 Figure 5: Banner Sign |
A permanent, on-premises sign that is directly attached to the facade or face of a building. Types of building-mounted signs include wall signs, projecting signs, awning signs, window signs, and freestanding canopy signs.
A freestanding or attached sign that includes a manually changeable readerboard to display changeable letters, text, or copy.
A sign with two (2) surfaces placed back-to-back or V-shaped with a common angle not greater than ninety degrees (90°).
A sign or billboard that incorporates a digital screen to display characters, letters, or illustrations that can be electronically changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign.
A banner in the shape of a feather, quill, sail, blade, or teardrop that is mounted on one (1) side to a curved solid or flexible pole that displays the sign regardless of wind conditions. These are also known as "quill signs" or "sail banners."
An on-premises sign erected or mounted on its own self-supporting, permanent structure or base detached from any supporting elements of a building.
A permanent, on-premises sign that is affixed to the exterior facing surface of a freestanding canopy.
 Figure 6: Freestanding Canopy Sign |
Any sign whose design or installation incorporates artificial light, including indirect illumination and internal illumination.
A small permanent on-premises sign that is freestanding or attached to a building that is in addition to the primary sign types for the property, such as wall signs and freestanding signs, and that has a height and scale that is subordinate to the primary sign types allowed for the property. Examples of typical incidental signs include house numbers, occupant directories, directional signs, flags, and parking signs. The list of examples is provided to clarify the regulations and does not limit the content of incidental signs.
An object where flexible fabric is inflated with air. These objects are designed in various shapes and may include a portable blower motor that provides a constant flow of air into the device.
 Figure 7: Inflatable Sign |
A sign allowed within a lot and not allowed within the applicable sign setback. This Code provides for two (2) types of interior signs: small and large interior signs.
 Figure 8: Interior Incidental Sign |
A permanent freestanding sign with a low profile and a base and support structure with a solid appearance that is at least as wide as the width of the widest part of the sign's face.
 Figure 9: Monument Sign |
A sign that directs attention to a business, organization, product, commodity, service, entertainment, or attraction sold, offered, or existing elsewhere than upon the same lot where such sign is displayed. "Off-premises/off-site sign" includes a billboard on which space is leased, rented, or donated by the owner to others to convey a commercial or non-commercial message.
A sign that directs attention to a business, organization, product, commodity, service, entertainment, or attraction sold, offered, or existing upon the same lot where such sign is displayed.
A sign allowed between the property line and the applicable sign setback. Examples of typical perimeter incidental signs include directional and entry/exit signs. The list of examples is provided to clarify the regulations and does not limit the content of incidental signs. The City will not review the content of incidental signs.
 Figure 10: Perimeter Incidental Sign |
A permanent freestanding sign located in a landscaped area adjacent to the entrance drive or road to a residential development, including recorded subdivisions, multi-family dwellings, and mobile home and trailer parks. An example of a residential development sign is one (1) that identifies the name or phase of development, sometimes incorporating architectural or landscape features. The example is provided to clarify the regulations and does not limit the content of residential development signs.
 Figure 11: Residential Development Sign |
A permanent freestanding sign supported by one (1) or more poles or vertical members that are less wide than the width of the widest part of the sign's face.
 Figure 12: Pole Sign |
Any sign not permanently affixed to any structure on a site, permanently ground-mounted, or firmly implanted in the ground. Examples of portable signs include A-frame signs and roadside signs.
A permanent, on-premises sign attached to or erected against the wall of a building that projects at least twelve (12) inches from the wall and has faces perpendicular to the plane of the wall.
 Figure 13: Projecting Sign |
A portable sign where the sign support structure consists of legs, wheels, or a trailer. This sign type includes a metal cabinet with a readerboard and is generally internally illuminated. These signs sometimes include an illuminated, flashing arrow above the sign face. Also commonly referred to as a flashing arrow sign.
A sign that projects above the highest point of the roof line or parapet of a building.
A sign constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wood, wallboard, metal, or other light materials, with or without frames, and displayed for a limited time only. Temporary signs include banners, feather signs, inflatable devices, stake signs, and post signs. Examples of common temporary signs include political signs, public demonstration signs, yard sale signs, grand opening signs, contractor signs, real estate signs, and signs that announce a special event. The list of examples does not limit the content of temporary signs.
A sign located in the City right-of-way or on City property without City permission.
A sign attached to, suspended from, or painted on any vehicle, such as motor vehicles, boats, and trailers that are regularly parked on private property or any street and where the primary purpose in parking the vehicle in the location is to display, demonstrate, and advertise or attract the attention of the public.
A permanent, on-premises sign attached to or erected against the wall of a building with the exposed face of the sign in a parallel plane to the plane of the wall.
 Figure 14: Wall Sign |
A permanent, on-premises sign placed, posted, painted, or affixed in a window or glass door. Window signs include any printed wraps or opaque or semi-opaque treatments applied directly to the windows. A window sign includes any sign that is located inside a building, that is one (1) foot or less from a window or glass door, and that is clearly visible from outside the building.
 Figure 15: Window Sign |
Section 400.1400 Exempt Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
The following types of signs are exempt from the permitting and allowance limitations of this Article but are subject to the maintenance, abandonment, and enforcement regulations:
1.
Government Signs. Signs erected by or on the order of the Federal, State, County, or City Government;
2.
Traffic Control Devices. Official traffic control devices on public or private property required or allowed by the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices or other officially recognized manual on traffic signs adopted in this State or by the City of St. Charles;
3.
Required Signs. Any sign or device that the Federal, State, County, or City Government requires to be erected, maintained, or displayed;
4.
Signs Up To One (1) Square Foot. Signs with an area of up to one (1) square foot. A person shall not place these signs in the right-of-way of any public street. Multiple small signs that effectively function together as a larger sign must comply with the standards of this Article.
5.
Indoor Signs. Signs located within a building or structure and at least one (1) foot inside a window for the building or structure.
Section 400.1410 Prohibited Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Signs that this Article does not specifically authorize are prohibited. The following signs are expressly prohibited:
1.
Non-governmental signs in the public right-of-way or on public property, except as otherwise provided and except for approved banner signs installed pursuant to the City's banner program guidelines;
2.
Roof-mounted signs;
3.
Signs with intermittent or flashing illumination, animated or moving parts, or signs that emit sound, except for electronic message signs permitted under this Article;
4.
Devices that project text, images, or patterns onto a surface, such as projectors and other light sources;
5.
Freestanding changeable copy signs, except as otherwise provided;
6.
Banners, pennants, streamers, balloons, flags, searchlights, strobe lights, beacons, feather signs, inflatable signs, and perimeter window lighting, except as otherwise provided;
7.
Banners and other signs mounted on service bay doors or garage doors;
8.
Any sign that obscures an official traffic control sign or device;
9.
Signs mounted on or attached to trees, utility poles, rocks, or City-owned property, except as otherwise provided;
10.
Signs placed on private property without the property owner's written approval;
11.
Off-premises/off-site signs, except as allowed in this Article;
12.
Portable signs, except as allowed in this Article;
13.
Painted plywood signs; and
14.
Vehicle signs, where signs are placed on or affixed to vehicles or trailers parked on private property and that are visible from a public right-of-way, where the primary purpose of the vehicle is to display the sign.
a.
The prohibition of vehicle signs does not limit or prohibit signs placed on or affixed to the exterior or the windows of vehicles and trailers, where the sign is incidental to the primary use of the vehicle or trailer for transportation by the vehicle owner or business.
b.
While other factors may also establish a violation, a vehicle presumptively violates this provision if the first three (3) criteria below are met and there is no compelling reason to justify the presence of the vehicle at the location as provided in the fourth criterion below. For the purposes of this prohibition, a vehicle is considered to function primarily as a sign when:
(1)
The vehicle is parked at a prominent location on the lot;
(2)
The sign is easily read by a person in the right-of-way;
(3)
The vehicle is parked at the same or similar locations for several hours during the same day or for several days during the same week; and
(4)
There are no stated or apparent reasons, other than its function as a sign, that justify the presence of the vehicle at that location.
Section 400.1420 Content Neutrality And Substitution.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Content Neutrality.
1.
Despite any other provision of this Article, the content of a sign's message does not limit its permissibility under this Article.
2.
However, location-based standards, such as on- and off-premises sign regulations, do apply. Off-premises signs are not allowed unless specifically authorized in this Code.
B.
Substitution Allowed. Any sign allowed to display a commercial message may contain any non-commercial message. Any sign allowed to display a non-commercial message may contain any other non-commercial message.
Section 400.1430 Sign Districts And Interpretation Of Tables.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Sign Districts. This Article generally regulates sign characteristics by district. Since many of the City's zoning districts have common characteristics for the purposes of sign regulations, this Section combines the City's zoning districts into common sign districts to simplify the regulations. Table Section 400.1430.1: Sign Districts designates the zoning districts included in each sign district.
Table Section 400.1430.1: Sign Districts | |
|---|---|
Sign District | Zoning Districts |
Residential | "A" Agricultural District "R-1C," "R-1D" and "R-1E" Single-Family Residential Districts "R-2" Two-Family Residential District |
Multi-Tenant Residential | "R-3A" Multiple-Family Residential District "R-M" Manufactured/Modular Residential District |
Mixed Use-Commercial | "O-I" Office Institutional District "C-1" Neighborhood Business District "CBD" Central Business District "CRD" Central Residential District "FD" Frenchtown District |
General Commercial | "C-2" General Business District "C-3" Highway Business District |
Industrial | "I-1" Light Industrial District "I-2" Heavy Industrial District |
B.
Superimposed Districts. Division 3 provides specific design standards and allowances for the City's Superimposed Districts to preserve the unique and/or historical character of these areas.
C.
Planned Development Districts. This Subsection applies to determine what standards apply to a Planned Development District if the City Council does not adopt specific standards in the authorizing ordinance.
1.
A Planned Development District in which the majority of the parcel by area is allocated to residential use must comply with the standards of the Mixed-Use Residential ("MU-R") sign district.
2.
A Planned Development District in which the majority of the parcel by area is allocated to non-residential use must comply with the standards of the Mixed-Use Commercial ("MU-C") sign district.
D.
Interpretation Of Tables. This Article presents the allowed specifications for signs in a series of tables. The tables include the allowance standards described in Table Section 400.1430.2: Interpretation of Tables.
Table Section 400.1430.2: Interpretation of Tables | |
|---|---|
Standard in Tables | Description of Standard |
Allowed | States whether the sign type is allowed in the sign district. |
Permit Required | States whether this Section requires a permit for the sign type and sign district. |
Number | The maximum number signs allowed sign on a parcel for the sign district. |
Sign Area Allowance | The maximum area allowed for a sign in the sign district, in square feet. |
Height | The maximum height allowed for sign for the sign district, in linear feet. |
Illumination | States whether and what type of illumination is allowed for the sign type and district. |
Changeable | States whether a manually changeable readerboard is allowed for the sign type and district and the percentage of sign area allowed for this feature. |
EMS | States whether electronic message signs are allowed for the sign type and district, and the percentage of sign area allowed for this feature. |
Section 400.1440 Sign Features.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
B.
Sign Illumination.
1.
Illuminated signs are allowed if the district allowance table allows the feature.
2.
If applicable, sign illumination must comply with the following standards:
a.
Externally illuminated, building-mounted signs may use either ground-mounted lights or building-mounted light bars. The light source requires full shielding so that the light is only directed at the sign's face;
b.
Externally illuminated, freestanding signs may use ground-mounted lights. The light source requires full shielding so that the light is only directed at the sign's face;
c.
The light source for internally illuminated freestanding and building-mounted signs shall not be directly visible through the sign's face; and
d.
Flashing and intermittent illumination are prohibited.
C.
Electronic Message Signs.
1.
Duration Of Message. The electronic message display shall have a static image displayed for a minimum duration of at least ten (10) seconds. The display shall not flash, scroll, twirl, change color, imitate movement, or include video.
2.
Transition Of Message. When the electronic message sign's image or text changes, the change sequence requires instantaneous re-pixelization and shall not include fade, scroll, or other animation.
3.
Video Display Prohibited. Electronic message signs shall not change their messages or backgrounds by simulating motion or the illusion of moving objects, moving patterns or bands of light, or expanding or contracting shapes.
4.
Brightness And Illumination.
a.
Brightness.
(1)
Electronic message signs and billboards shall not operate at brightness levels that project more than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light conditions at the property line, as measured using a foot-candle meter.
(2)
Illumination levels are measured in foot candles with a foot-candle meter in a horizontal position at the property line at an approximate height of three (3) feet above grade.
b.
Dimmer Control. Electronic message signs require an automatic dimmer control to regulate the proper illumination level from sundown to sunrise.
5.
Audio. Electronic message signs shall not include audio speakers.
6.
Malfunction. Electronic message signs must freeze the display in one (1) message or image or cease operation if a malfunction occurs.
Section 400.1450 Measurements.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Road Frontage. Where this Article calculates a sign allowance based on frontage or road frontage, the measurement is the total length of the property line where the lot is adjacent to the right-of-way of a public street or private street, expressed in linear feet.
B.
Building Facade. For the purposes of this Article, a building facade is a building elevation that contains the front of the building as viewed from the right-of-way or an elevation that is oriented to the parking lot and contains the main entrance.
C.
Facade Width. Where this Article calculates a sign area allowance based on the width of a building's facade, the width of the facade is:
1.
The horizontal distance of the facade at grade on the side of the building facing a public street or with a public entrance for single-user lots; or
2.
The horizontal distance of the portion of the facade between party walls or tenant separation partitions for the particular occupant at grade on the side of the building facing a public street or with a public entrance for multi-tenant developments with separate public entrances for each tenant.
 Figure 16: Building Facade Width Measurement |
D.
Facade Area. Where this Article calculates a sign area allowance based on the facade area of the building's principal elevation, the facade area is the facade width multiplied by the average height above grade for the first story of the facade as measured from an elevation perspective.
E.
Freestanding Sign Height. Freestanding sign height is the distance from the top of the sign structure to the top of the curb or crown of the roadway where no curb exists. The height of any monument base or other structure erected to support or ornament the sign is measured as part of the sign height.
 Figure 17: Sign Height Measurement |
F.
Sign Area Measurement.
1.
The sign area for copy mounted or painted on a background panel or area distinctively painted, textured, or constructed as a background for the sign copy is measured as the area contained within the outside dimensions of the background panel or surface.
 Figure 18: Sign Area Measurement |
2.
Where there are two (2) or more faces, the sign area is measured as follows.
a.
Two (2) Faces.
(1)
If the interior angle between the two (2) faces is forty-five degrees (45°) or less, the sign area is calculated as the area of one (1) face only;
(2)
If the angle between the two (2) sign faces is greater than forty-five degrees (45°), the sign area is calculated as the sum of the areas of the two (2) faces.
b.
Three (3) Or More Faces. The sign area of signs with three (3) or more faces is the sum of the areas of each of the faces.
 Figure 19: Face Area Measurement for Multi-Sided Signs |
3.
Spherical, Free-Form, Sculptural, and Other Non-Planar Signs. Sign area is calculated as the sum of the areas using only the four (4) vertical sides of the smallest rectangular prism that will encompass the sign, as illustrated in Figure 20.
 Figure 20: Face Area Measurement for Non-Planar Signs |
4.
Building-Mounted Sign Area.
a.
Sign area for Building-Mounted Signs is the width multiplied by the height of a single rectangle, parallel with the ground, that contains all sign copy, illuminated cabinets, background panels, or contrasting colors, but does not include architectural elements.
b.
The sign area includes all related sign elements on the same exterior wall or structure. Related sign elements have similar construction and are no more than five (5) feet apart, measured horizontally or vertically.
Section 400.1460 Design Standards.
Section 400.1470 Freestanding Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Freestanding Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses must comply with the freestanding sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1470.1.
Table Section 400.1470.1: Freestanding Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Multi-Tenant Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | NR1 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Type | Monument | Monument | Monument | Monument2 | Monument2 |
Number (Max.) | 1 per street frontage | ||||
Height (Max.) | 6 ft. | 6 ft. | 8 ft. | 8 ft.3 | 8 ft.3 |
Area (Max.) | 24 s.f. | 50 s.f. | 50 s.f. | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of road frontage up to 150 s.f. | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of road frontage up to 150 s.f. |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | All types | All types | All types |
Changeable | No | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
EMS | No | No | 50% | 50% | 50% |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | NR = Non-Residential uses only | |||||
Notes: |
1 Limited to non-residential uses in residential districts. For additional standard for Residential Development Signs, refer to Paragraph B: Permanent Residential Development Sign. |
2 Pole signs are also allowed on lots adjacent to certain highways. Refer to Subsection (A)(5). |
3 Sign height of up to thirty (30) feet is allowed on lots adjacent to certain highways. Refer to Subsection (A)(5). |
2.
Number Of Freestanding Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
3.
Area. Double- and multi-fronted lots cannot combine allowances for the frontages into one (1) sign that exceeds the allowance for one (1) frontage.
4.
Monument Signs Generally Required.
a.
When Table Section 400.1470.1 states the sign type is "monument," freestanding signs are limited to monument signs in the district.
b.
All monument signs require monument-type bases of masonry construction or materials that complement the primary structure on the lot or the prevailing character of the structures in the area.
5.
6.
Landscaping.
a.
Freestanding signs require a landscaped area equal to at least four (4) square feet for each square foot of sign area.
b.
The landscaped area shall consist of shrubs, ornamental grasses, groundcover, and mulch, pine straw, or other cover material surrounding the base of the sign and shall be separated from any parking areas by a six-inch high vertical concrete curb.
c.
Landscaped areas required by this Section shall comply with the standards of Section 400.700: Parking Design Standards and may also count towards the requirements for parking lot landscaping.
d.
The Director may modify the requirement for a landscaped area if pre-existing circumstances would cause an undue burden on the ability to effectively use the property if the landscaped area were included.
B.
Permanent Residential Development Sign.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the residential development sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1470.2.
Table Section 400.1470.2: Allowances for Residential Development Signs | |
|---|---|
Standard | Residential Developments in All Districts |
Allowed? | Yes |
Permit Required? | Yes |
Type | Monument or attached to decorative feature |
Number (Max.) | 2 signs per entry drive |
Height (Max.) | 6 ft. |
Sign Area (Max.) | 50 s.f. |
Sign Features | |
Illumination | Indirect |
Readerboard | No |
EMS | No |
Animated | No |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |
2.
Location.
a.
Residential development signs are allowed on either side of a street providing direct access to the subdivision and serving as a major entry.
b.
Where the development's road frontage incorporates decorative features, such as walls, gates, or fences, signs attached to a wall, or other appropriate features are allowed.
3.
Landscaping. Residential development signs require a landscaped area equal to at least two (2) square feet for each square foot of sign area.
Section 400.1480 Building-Mounted Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Location Standards. A building-mounted sign shall not protrude beyond any property line for the lot on which the building is located.
B.
Wall Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the wall sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1480.1.
Table Section 400.1480.1: Wall Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Multi-Tenant Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | NR1 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Number (Max.) | 1 per facade with a public entrance2 | ||||
Area (Max.) | 10% of Facade Area up to 40 s.f. | 10% of Facade Area up to 24 s.f. | 10% of Facade Area up to 40 s.f. | 10% of Facade | 10% of Facade Area up to 500 s.f. |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | All types | All types | All types |
Changeable | No | No | No | 25% | No |
EMS | No | No | No | 25% | No |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | NR = non-residential uses only | |||||
Notes: |
1 Limited to non-residential uses in residential districts |
2 For additional standards for multi-tenant developments, see Section 400.1480(B)(2). |
2.
Number.
a.
Each wall of a building with a public entrance may display wall signs.
b.
Building-Mounted Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
(1)
A tenant in a multi-tenant building that has a separate public entrance for that tenant may display a building-mounted sign on any facade where a public entrance is located.
(2)
A multi-tenant development with common entrances may display the number and size of building-mounted signs as provided in this Section for the entire development. Individual tenants in multi-tenant buildings with common entrances shall not display a separate building-mounted sign.
3.
Sign Area.
a.
The sign area is allowed based on the facade area of the principal facade.
b.
The principal facade is a facade that faces a public street, private drive, or parking area and that includes a public entrance.
c.
Wall signs are allowed on any building elevation but may not exceed the total area allowance based on the principal facade.
C.
Projecting Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the projecting sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1480.2.
Table Section 400.1480.2: Projecting Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Multi-Tenant Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Number (Max.) | N/A | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Area (Max.) | N/A | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 24 s.f. | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 40 s.f. | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 40 s.f. | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 40 s.f. |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | Indirect | All types | N/A | N/A |
Changeable | N/A | No | No | N/A | N/A |
EMS | N/A | No | No | N/A | N/A |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
2.
Number.
a.
A projecting sign is allowed as a substitute for a wall sign in districts where they are allowed. Projecting signs are not allowed in addition to wall signs.
b.
Each building may display one (1) projecting sign on the wall with the principal public entrance.
c.
Building-Mounted Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
(1)
A tenant in a multi-tenant building that has a separate public entrance for that tenant may display a building-mounted sign on any facade where a public entrance is located.
(2)
A multi-tenant development with common entrances may display the number and size of building-mounted signs as provided in this Section for the entire development. Individual tenants in multi-tenant buildings with common entrances shall not display a separate building-mounted sign.
D.
Awning Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the awning sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1480.3.
Table Section 400.1480.3: Awning Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Multi-Tenant Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Number (Max.) | N/A | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Area (Max.) | N/A | Lesser of 50% of Awning Face Area or 12 s.f.1 | Lesser of 50% of Awning Face Area or 12 s.f.1 | Lesser of 50% of Awning Face Area or 12 s.f.1 | Lesser of 50% of Awning Face Area or 12 s.f.1 |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | N/A |
Changeable | N/A | No | No | No | N/A |
EMS | N/A | No | No | No | N/A |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
Notes: |
1 The area of an awning sign is deducted from the overall wall sign allowance. See Section 400.1480(D)(2)(b). |
2.
Number.
a.
Each building may display one (1) awning sign on the wall with the principal public entrance.
b.
An awning sign is allowed in addition to a wall sign in districts where they are allowed. However, the sign area for an awning sign is deducted from the sign area allowance for a wall sign on the same wall.
c.
Awning Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
(1)
A tenant in a multi-tenant building that has a separate public entrance for that tenant may display an awning sign on any facade where a public entrance is located.
(2)
A multi-tenant development with common entrances may display one (1) awning sign as provided in this Section for the entire development. Individual tenants in multi-tenant buildings with common entrances shall not display a separate awning sign.
E.
Window Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the window sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1480.4.
Table Section 400.1480.4: Window Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Multi-Tenant Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | N/A | No | No | No | No |
Number (Max.) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Area (Max.) | N/A | 33% | 50% | 25% | 25% |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect |
Changeable | N/A | No | No | Indirect | Indirect |
EMS | N/A | No | No | No | Indirect |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
2.
Number And Area. The number of window signs is not limited, but the cumulative area of all signs in each window shall not exceed the dimension standards for the sign area.
3.
Design Standards. Window signs are only allowed on ground-floor windows.
F.
Freestanding Canopy Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the freestanding canopy sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1480.5.
Table Section 400.1480.5: Freestanding Canopy Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Multi-Tenant Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Number per Canopy Face (Max.) | N/A | N/A | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Area (Max.) | N/A | N/A | 25% | 50% | 50% |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | N/A | Indirect | Any | Any |
Changeable | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes | Yes |
EMS | N/A | N/A | No | 50% | 50% |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
2.
Area. Table Section 400.1480.5 expresses the area allowance for canopy signs as the maximum percentage that the sign may cover the face of the canopy where the sign is located.
Section 400.1490 Incidental Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the incidental sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1490.1.
Table Section 400.1490.1: Incidental Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Multi-Tenant Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Perimeter Signs | |||||
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | No, unless lighted1 | No, unless lighted1 | No, unless lighted1 | No, unless lighted1 | No, unless lighted1 |
Setback | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. |
Number (Max. per entrance/exit) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Height | 3 ft. | 3 ft. | 3 ft. | 3 ft. | 3 ft. |
Area | 2 s.f. | 2 s.f. | 2 s.f. | 2 s.f. | 2 s.f. |
Illumination | Indirect1 | Indirect1 | Indirect1 | Any1 | Any1 |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | No |
EMS | No | No | No | No | No |
Small Interior Signs | |||||
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Setback | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. |
Number | 5 per lot | 10 per acre | 10 per acre | 20 per acre | 20 per acre |
Height | N/A | N/A | 6 ft. | 6 ft. | 6 ft. |
Area | 1 s.f. | 1 s.f. | 2 s.f. | 2 s.f. | 2 s.f. |
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Any | Any |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | No |
EMS | No | No | No | No | No |
Large Interior Signs | |||||
Allowed | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | N/A | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes |
Setback | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 ft. | 30 ft. |
Number | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 per lot | 1 per lot |
Height | N/A | N/A | N/A | 6 ft. | 6 ft. |
Area | N/A | N/A | N/A | 30 s.f. | 30 s.f. |
Illumination | N/A | N/A | N/A | Any | Any |
Changeable | N/A | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes |
EMS | N/A | N/A | N/A | Yes | Yes |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | NR = non-residential uses only | |||||
Notes: |
1 Illuminated incidental signs require a permit. See Section 400.1490. |
B.
Sign Setback.
1.
Generally. This Section regulates the location and size of incidental signs based on a sign setback that varies by district and incidental sign type. Figure 21: Incidental Sign Setbacks depicts the setbacks and locations for incidental signs.
 Figure 21: Incidental Sign Setbacks |
2.
Measurement. The sign setback is the setback from any property line and regulates the location and size of incidental signs. Table Section 400.1490.1 defines the applicable setback for each sign type and district.
3.
Table Section 400.1490.1 defines the maximum number of perimeter incidental signs per entrance to a public street.
4.
Perimeter signs are only allowed within fifteen (15) feet of a driveway entrance to a public street.
5.
Illuminated perimeter signs require a sign permit.
C.
Interior Incidental Signs.
1.
Table Section 400.1490.1 defines the maximum allowances for small interior incidental signs based on the number of signs per lot or per acre. Examples of typical small incidental signs include house numbers, directional signs, and parking signs. The list of examples is provided to clarify the regulations and does not limit the content of incidental signs. The City will not review the content of incidental signs.
2.
Table Section 400.1490.1 defines the allowances for large interior incidental signs based on the number of signs per lot. Examples of typical large incidental signs include occupant directories, drive-thru menus, and information kiosks. The list of examples is provided to clarify the regulations and does not limit the content of incidental signs. The City will not review the content of incidental signs.
D.
Design Standards.
1.
Orientation of Large Incidental Signs. Large interior incidental signs that are illuminated or include electronic message signs shall be located in a manner that provides the least impact on adjacent or nearby land uses. Examples of techniques to limit the impact on adjacent property include locating the sign behind the principal building and screening the site with opaque shrubbery or fencing.
2.
Materials And Design. Freestanding large incidental signs require:
a.
A monument base of masonry construction; and
b.
A landscaped area at the base of the sign equal to at least two (2) square feet for each square foot of sign area. The Director may reduce the required landscape area if, due to pre-existing circumstances, the required landscape area will cause an undue burden on the ability to effectively use the property.
E.
Flags.
1.
Sign Allowances. Flags shall comply with the standards in Table Section 400.1490.2: Flag Allowances.
Table Section 400.1490.2: Flag Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Mixed-Use Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Perimeter Signs | |||||
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | No | No | No | No | No |
Setback | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. | 10 ft. |
Number | 3 per lot | 3 per lot | 3 per lot | 5 per lot | 5 per lot |
Flagpole Height | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Area | 15 s.f. | 15 s.f. | 15 s.f. | 15 s.f. | 15 s.f. |
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | No |
EMS | No | No | No | No | No |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
2.
Placement And Location.
a.
Display of Flags is allowed on freestanding poles or poles attached to a building.
3.
Maintenance. Flags require removal or replacement when they become torn, tattered, or faded.
Section 400.1500 Temporary Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Limitations On Temporary Signs. This Article prohibits or limits the use of several common temporary sign types, including pennants, streamers, balloons, strobe lights, beacons, feather signs, and inflatable signs.
B.
Generally.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the temporary sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1500.1.
Table Section 400.1500.1: Temporary Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Mixed-Use Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | No | No | No | No | No |
Number | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 |
Height | 3 ft. | 3 ft. | 8 ft. | 8 ft. | 8 ft. |
Area | 3 ft. | 3 ft. | 7 at 4 s.f. 1 at 32 s.f. | 7 at 4 s.f. 1 at 32 s.f. | 7 at 4 s.f. 1 at 32 s.f. |
Duration for Display | 90 days | 90 days | 90 days | 90 days | 90 days |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | No | No | No | No | No |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | No |
EMS | No | No | No | No | No |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
3.
Duration For Display. The duration of display for all temporary signs shall not exceed ninety (90) days or more per calendar year, measured cumulatively per sign, unless otherwise regulated by this Article.
C.
Banners.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the banner sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1500.2.
Table Section 400.1500.2: Banner Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Mixed-Use Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | NR | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | No | No | No | No | No |
Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Height | 8 ft. | 8 ft. | 8 ft. | 8 ft. | 8 ft. |
Area | 32 s.f. | 32 s.f. | 32 s.f. | 32 s.f. | 32 s.f. |
Duration for Display | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
Times Per Year | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | No | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | No |
EMS | No | No | No | No | No |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | NR = non-residential uses only | |||||
D.
Inflatable Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the allowances listed in Table Section 400.1500.3.
Table Section 400.1500.3: Inflatable Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | Residential | Mixed-Use Residential | Mixed-Use Commercial | General Commercial | Industrial |
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Permit Required | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Number | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Height | 32 ft. | 32 ft. | 32 ft. | 32 ft. | 32 ft. |
Duration for Display | 60 days | 60 days | 14 days | 14 days | 14 days |
Times Per Year | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect or Internal | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | No |
EMS | No | No | No | No | No |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
Section 400.1510 General Standards For The Superimposed Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Approval Required.
1.
Generally. Signs in the "SMPD," "HDD," "FHD," and "LMPD" Superimposed Districts require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the HLPARB before their installation unless exempted from the permitting requirement by this Division.
2.
"EHP" District. Signs in the "EHP" District require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the HLPARB if they are displayed on a building constructed before 1960, unless exempted from the permitting requirement by this Division.
B.
Off-Premises Signs Prohibited. Off-premises signs are not allowed within the Superimposed Districts.
C.
Design Standards For The Superimposed Districts. All lots in the Superimposed Districts must comply with the following design standards.
1.
Sign Locations. Signs shall not obscure architectural details or features.
2.
Sight Distance. Signs shall not be located within the thirty (30) foot sight distance triangle as defined by Section 400.540: Corner Visibility.
3.
Fluorescent Lights. Fluorescent lights are prohibited.
4.
Neon Lights. Neon lights in any form, including neon signs, are prohibited.
D.
Additional Design Standards For "HDD" And "FHD" Districts. All lots in the "HDD" and "FHD" Districts shall comply with the following additional design standards.
1.
Sign Design. Signs shall utilize colors from the approved paint color chart adopted by the HLPARB or shall use colors with proven historical relevance that are approved by the HLPARB.
2.
Sign Materials. Painted wood and metal are appropriate sign materials. Plastic should only be used in limited amounts or when disguised to look otherwise.
3.
Letter sizes and styles should be compatible with the building.
Section 400.1520 Freestanding Signs In The Superimposed District.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Sign Allowances. All uses in the Superimposed Districts shall comply with the freestanding sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1520.1.
Table Section 400.1520.1: Freestanding Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD1" | "EHP" |
Allowed | Yes2 | Yes2 | Yes | Yes2 | Yes |
Permit Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply. |
Type | Pole | Any | Monument | Pole | |
Number | 1 per street frontage4 | 1 per street frontage | 1 per street frontage3 | 1 per street frontage | |
Height | 6 ft. | 6 ft. | 6 ft. | 6 ft. | |
Area | 0.25 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 16 s.f. | 0.75 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width for first 50 ft. and 0.5 s.f. per 1 ft. of additional facade width | 0.75 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width for first 50 ft. and 0.5 s.f. per 1 ft. of additional facade width | 0.25 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 16 s.f. | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | |
EMS | No | No | No | No | |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
Notes: |
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street must comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.1450. |
2 Freestanding signs are only allowed on lots with a front setback of at least 15 feet. See Section 400.1520(B)(1). |
3 Locations in the "FHD" may have a monument sign or a projecting sign but shall not have both. |
4 Freestanding signs are only allowed on properties which front on Second Street or Third Street. |
B.
Number Of Freestanding Signs.
1.
"SMPD" And "LMPD" Districts.
a.
Lots with a building having a front yard setback of at least fifteen (15) feet from the right-of-way may erect one (1) pole sign in a front yard.
b.
Lots with a front yard setback of less than fifteen (15) feet shall not have a freestanding sign.
c.
Buildings with public entrances not facing Main Street are allowed to erect a pole sign along South Main Street. However, if a pole sign currently exists on the lot, the occupant or tenant is only permitted to install a new sign face on the existing pole.
2.
Sign Area.
a.
"HDD" And "FHD" Districts. Where there are two (2) or more frontages, the average facade width of the frontages shall determine the signage allotment under this formula.
3.
Number Of Freestanding Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
4.
Sign Types.
a.
Monument Signs.
(1)
When Table Section 400.1520.1 states the sign type is "monument," freestanding signs are limited to monument signs in the district.
(2)
All monument signs require monument-type bases of masonry construction or materials that complement the primary structure on the lot or the prevailing character of the structures in the area.
b.
Pole Signs. When Table Section 400.1520.1 states the sign type is "pole," freestanding signs are limited to pole signs in the district.
c.
Other Sign Types. When Table Section 400.1520.1 states the sign type is "any," pole signs and monument signs are allowed as freestanding signs.
Section 400.1530 Building-Mounted Signs In The Superimposed Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Wall Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the wall sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1530.1.
Table Section 400.1530.1: Wall Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD1" | "EHP" |
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply. |
Permit Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Number (Max.) | 1 per lot or tenant2 1 additional sign for buildings with a rear entry | 1 per lot or tenant2 1 additional sign for buildings with a rear entry | 1 per lot or tenant2 1 additional sign for buildings with a rear entry | 1 per lot or tenant2 1 additional sign for buildings with a rear entry | |
Area (Max.) | 0.75 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 16 s.f. | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width | 1 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width | 0.75 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 16 s.f. | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | |
EMS | No | No | No | No | |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
Notes: |
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street shall comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.1450. |
2 For additional standards for multi-tenant developments, see Section 400.1530(A)(2)(c). |
2.
Number.
a.
Generally. Single-use lots are allowed one (1) wall sign on the wall with the primary public entrance.
b.
Additional Allowance For Rear Entry Signs. One (1) additional sign is permitted on the rear elevation of each building with a public entry at the rear of the building.
c.
Wall Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
(1)
A tenant in a multi-tenant building that has a separate public entrances for that tenant may display a wall sign on any facade where a public entrance is located.
(2)
A multi-tenant development with common entrances may display the number and size of wall signs as provided in this Section for the entire development. Individual tenants in multi-tenant buildings with common entrances shall not display a separate wall sign.
3.
Sign Area.
a.
Generally. The wall sign area allowance is based on the width in linear feet of the wall on which the sign is located, as measured at the foundation of the building.
b.
Additional Allowance For Rear Entry Signs. The maximum area of the rear elevation sign is fifty percent (50%) of the area allowed on the front. The area of the rear elevation sign counts toward the total sign area for the building.
4.
Cumulative Area Allowances In The "HDD" And "FHD" Districts.
a.
Each building in the "HDD" and "FHD" Districts is permitted a cumulative maximum of all wall, projecting, awning and canopy, and window signs of one (1) square foot of sign per linear foot of facade frontage for the building.
b.
Multiple Frontages. Where a lot has two (2) or more street frontages, the average of the facade width of the facades facing the streets determines the sign allowance under this formula.
5.
Design Standards. Wall signs are not allowed above second-story windows.
B.
Projecting Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses in the Superimposed Districts shall comply with the projecting sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1530.2.
Table Section 400.1530.2: Projecting Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD1" | "EHP" |
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply. |
Permit Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Number2 | 1 | 1 | 13 | 1 | |
Area | 0.3 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 5.5 s.f. | Included in Wall Sign Area | Included in Wall Sign Area | 0.3 s.f. per 1 ft. of facade width up to 5.5 s.f. | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | |
EMS | No | No | No | No | |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
Notes: |
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street shall comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.150. |
2 For additional standards for multi-tenant developments, see Section 400.1530(B)(2). |
3 Locations in the "FHD" may have a monument sign or a projecting sign but may not have both. |
2.
Number.
a.
A projecting sign is allowed as a substitute for a wall sign. Projecting signs are not allowed in addition to wall signs.
b.
Projecting Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
(1)
A tenant in a multi-tenant building that has a separate public entrance for that tenant may display a projecting sign on any facade where a public entrance is located.
(2)
A multi-tenant development with common entrances may display the number and size of projecting signs as provided in this Section for the entire development. Individual tenants in multi-tenant buildings with common entrances shall not display a separate projecting sign.
3.
Sign Area For "HDD" And "FHD" Districts. In the "HDD" and "FHD" Districts, the projecting sign area is included in the calculation of the total area allowance for the building provided in Section 400.1530(A)(4).
4.
General Design Standards.
a.
Projecting signs shall not extend more than five (5) feet from the building.
b.
The lower edge of a projecting sign shall allow clearance of at least eight (8) feet from grade.
c.
Projecting signs shall be attached by use of period-appropriate devices. Modern-looking chains, hooks, and other visible devices should be avoided.
d.
A sign shall be installed in a workmanlike manner and hide from view such fixtures as guy wires, braces, angle irons, cables, nuts and bolts, brackets, mounting plates, conductors, transformers, conduits, raceways, and similar fixtures.
C.
Awning And Canopy Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the awning sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1530.3.
Table Section 400.1530.3: Awning and Canopy Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD" | "EHP" |
Allowed | No | Yes | Yes | No | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply. |
Permit Required | N/A | Yes | Yes | N/A | |
Number (Max.) | N/A | 1 | 1 | N/A | |
Area (Max.) | N/A | Included in Wall Sign Allowance1 | Included in Wall Sign Allowance1 | N/A | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | Indirect | Indirect | N/A | |
Changeable | N/A | No | No | N/A | |
EMS | N/A | No | No | N/A | |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | NR = non-residential uses only | |||||
Notes: |
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street shall comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.1450. The area of an awning sign is deducted from the overall wall sign allowance. See Section 400.1480(D)(2)(b). |
2.
Number.
a.
An awning sign is allowed in addition to a wall sign in districts where they are allowed.
b.
Awning Signs For Multi-Tenant Developments.
(1)
A tenant in a multi-tenant building that has a separate public entrance for that tenant may display an awning sign on any facade where a public entrance is located.
(2)
A multi-tenant development with common entrances may display one (1) awning sign as provided in this Section for the entire development. Individual tenants in multi-tenant buildings with common entrances shall not display a separate awning sign.
3.
Sign Area For "HDD" And "FHD" Districts. In the "HDD" and "FHD" Districts, the awning sign area is included in the calculation of the total area allowance for the building provided in Section 400.1530(A)(4).
D.
Window Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the window sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1530.4.
Table Section 400.1530.4: Window Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD" | "EHP" |
Allowed | No | Yes | Yes | No | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply |
Permit Required | N/A | No | No | N/A | |
Number (Max.) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | |
Area (Max.) | N/A | Included in Wall Sign Area, but not to exceed 33% per window | Included in Wall Sign Area, but not to exceed 50% per window | N/A | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | Indirect | Indirect | N/A | |
Changeable | N/A | No | No | N/A | |
EMS | N/A | No | No | N/A | |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
Notes: |
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street shall comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.1450. |
2.
Number. The number of window signs is not limited, but the cumulative area of all signs in each window shall not exceed the area allowance for the panes of glass allocated to each tenant.
3.
Sign Area For "HDD" And "FHD" Districts. In the "HDD" and "FHD" Districts, the permanent window sign area is included in the calculation of the total area allowance for the building provided in Section 400.1530(A)(4).
4.
Design Standards. Window signs are only allowed on ground-floor windows.
Section 400.1540 Murals In The Superimposed Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Sign Allowances. Murals shall comply with the standards in Table Section 400.1540.1: Mural Allowances for Frenchtown Historic Commercial District ("FHD").
Table Section 400.1540.1: Mural Allowances for "FHD" District | |
|---|---|
Standard | Allowance |
Allowed? | Yes |
Permit Required? | Yes |
Number (Max.) | 1 per Building |
Sign Area (Max.) | 100% of One Secondary Wall |
Height (Max.) | No Taller than Existing Wall |
Features | |
Illumination | Indirect |
Changeable | No |
EMS | No |
Text (Max.) | 10% of sign area |
C.
Placement And Location.
1.
A mural shall only be located on a secondary exterior wall that does not have direct street frontage, unless the building is located on a corner lot.
2.
Buildings on corner lots may display murals on a facade with street frontage that does not include the principal public entrance.
3.
Murals are not allowed on brick or any other material that is considered contributing to a Historic Building that has not already been painted legally (either historically painted or based on approval by the Landmarks Board).
Section 400.1550 Incidental Signs In The Superimposed Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the incidential sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1550.1.
Table Section 400.1550.1: Incidental Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD" | "EHP" |
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply |
Permit Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Setback | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | |
Number | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | |
Height | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | |
Area | Lesser of 100 s.i. per tenant or 400 s.i. | 400 s.i. | 400 s.i. | Lesser of 100 s.i. per tenant or 400 s.i. | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | |
EMS | No | No | No | No | |
Key: ft. = feet | s.i. = square inches | |||||
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street shall comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.1450. |
B.
Perimeter Incidental Signs. Perimeter signs are allowed as provided based on the base districts in Section 400.1490.
E.
Prohibited Signs in the "SMPD" and "LMPD" Districts. Signs on umbrellas are prohibited in the "SMPD" and "LMPD" Districts.
Section 400.1560 Temporary Signs In The Superimposed Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Limitations On Temporary Signs. This Article prohibits or limits the use of several common temporary sign types, including pennants, streamers, balloons, strobe lights, beacons, feather signs, and inflatable signs.
B.
Generally.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the temporary sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1560.1.
Table Section 400.1560.1: Temporary Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD1" | "EHP" |
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply. |
Permit Required | No | No | No | No | |
Number | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | |
Height | N/A | 3 ft. | 8 ft. | 8 ft. | |
Area | 7 at 4 s.f. 1 at 16 s.f. | 7 at 4 s.f. 1 at 16 s.f. | 7 at 4 s.f. 1 at 16 s.f. | 7 at 4 s.f. 1 at 16 s.f. | |
Duration for Display | 90 days | 90 days | 90 days | 90 days | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | No | No | No | No | |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | |
EMS | No | No | No | No | |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
Notes: |
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street shall comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.1450. |
3.
Duration For Display. The duration of display for all temporary signs shall not exceed ninety (90) days or more per calendar year, measured cumulatively per sign, unless otherwise regulated by this Article.
C.
A-Frame Signs.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the A-frame sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1560.1.
Table Section 400.1560.2: A-Frame Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD" | "EHP" |
Allowed | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Permit Required | N/A | No | No | N/A | N/A |
Number | N/A | 1 | 1 | N/A | N/A |
Height | N/A | 4 ft. | 4 ft. | N/A | N/A |
Area | N/A | 30 in. wide 48 in. tall | 30 in. wide 48 in. tall | N/A | N/A |
Duration for Display | N/A | Hours of Operation | Hours of Operation | N/A | N/A |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | No | No | N/A | N/A |
Changeable | N/A | No | No | N/A | N/A |
EMS | N/A | No | No | N/A | N/A |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |||||
3.
Use Standards.
a.
A-frame signs are not allowed closer than twenty-five (25) feet from each other.
b.
The sign shall be located within ten (10) feet of the facade with the principal public entrance.
c.
The sign shall not interfere with pedestrian access.
d.
A-frame signs are only allowed during the hours of operation of the premises.
4.
Design Standards.
a.
All A-Frame signs shall be constructed from wood, non-reflective metal or a non-reflective high-grade composite which mimics natural materials.
b.
Prohibited materials include, but are not limited to; plastics, PVC, vinyl, corrugated plastics, foam board or other non-natural materials unless the material mimics a natural material.
c.
A-Frame signs shall be matte or low-gloss finishes and shall not include reflective surfaces.
D.
Banners.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the banner sign allowances listed in Table Section 400.1560.3.
Table Section 400.1560.3: Banner Sign Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD1" | "EHP" |
Allowed | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | The general sign standards for the base district in Section 400.1450 apply. |
Permit Required | Yes | No | No | Yes | |
Number | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | |
Height | N/A | 8 ft. | 8 ft. | N/A | |
Area | 32 s.f. | 32 s.f. | 32 s.f. for lots with up to 20,000 s.f. of floor area 96 s.f. for lots with less than 20,000 s.f. of floor area | 32 s.f. | |
Duration for Display | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | |
Times Per Year | 1 | 4 | 4 | 1 | |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect | Indirect |
Changeable | No | No | No | No | No |
EMS | No | No | No | No | No |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | NR = Non-Residential uses only | |||||
Notes: |
1 The "LMPD" standards apply to building frontages along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages north of the 1100 Block of South Main Street. Building frontages not located along Boone's Lick Road and building frontages south of the 1000 Block of South Main Street shall comply with the general sign standards in Section 400.1450. |
E.
Balloons.
1.
Sign Allowances. All uses shall comply with the balloon allowances listed in Table Section 400.1560.4.
Table Section 400.1560.4: Balloon Allowances | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard | "SMPD" | "HDD" | "FHD" | "LMPD" | "EHP" |
Allowed | No | Yes | No | No | No |
Permit Required | N/A | Yes | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Number | N/A | No limit | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Height | N/A | 35 ft. | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Duration for Display | N/A | 7 days | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Times Per Year | N/A | 3 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Sign Features | |||||
Illumination | N/A | No | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Changeable | N/A | No | N/A | N/A | N/A |
EMS | N/A | No | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | NR = non-residential uses only | |||||
Section 400.1570 General Standards.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Districts Allowed. Billboards and electronic billboards are allowed as conditional uses in the zoning districts listed in Table Section 400.1570.1.
B.
Approval Required. Billboards and electronic billboards require conditional use approval by the City Council following a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
C.
Dimension Standards. All billboards must comply with the billboard allowances listed in Table Section 400.1570.1.
Table Section 400.1570.1: Billboard Allowances | |
|---|---|
Standard | Allowance |
Districts Allowed | "I-1," "I-2," "PD-C," "PD-MU," "C-3," "C-3" |
Permit Required? | Yes |
Number | 1 |
Sign Area | 672 s.f. |
Sign Face Height | 20 ft. |
Sign Face Width | 50 ft. |
Total Height | 45 ft. |
Features | |
Illumination | Indirect |
Message Board | No |
EMS | Yes |
Key: ft. = feet | s.f. = square feet | |
1.
Measurement Standards.
a.
All dimension standards are measured inclusive of border, cutouts, extensions, projections, and trim but excluding the base, apron, supports, and other structural members.
b.
The area shall be measured by the smallest square, rectangle, triangle, circle, or combination of those shapes that will encompass the entire billboard.
2.
Cutouts, extensions, and projections shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the area of the sign.
3.
The maximum area limitation shall apply to each side of a billboard structure. Allowable billboard configurations are placed back-to-back, double-faced, or in V-type construction with no more than two (2) displays to each facing. A billboard structure with multiple facings or panels is considered as one (1) billboard.
4.
The total height of the billboard is measured from the natural grade where the billboard is installed or the grade level of the centerline of the highway to which the sign is oriented, whichever is higher.
5.
Billboards with EMS features must comply with the brightness and operation standards in Section 400.1440(C)(4): Sign Features.
Section 400.1580 Location And Spacing For Billboards.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
B.
Spacing And Separation Requirements.
1.
Separation From Other Billboards.
a.
The separation distance for a billboard is ten thousand (10,000) feet from an existing billboard on either side of the highway.
b.
However, the separation distance for a billboard on lots in the southeast quadrant of the intersection of two (2) Missouri State highways located in the "C-2" Zoning District is four thousand (4,000) feet on the same side of the State highway.
c.
The separation distance for a billboard with electronic message features is two thousand six hundred forty (2,640) feet from an existing billboard with electronic message features on either side of the highway.
d.
The separation distance is measured along the nearest edge of the pavement at points directly opposite the billboard along each side of the highway and applies to billboards located on either side of the highway in computing the distance between billboards.
2.
Separation From Intersections.
a.
The general separation distance for a billboard is five hundred (500) feet from an interchange or intersection between the highway and another highway or street.
b.
However, the separation distance for lots in the southeast quadrant of the intersection of two (2) Missouri State highways located in the "C-2" Zoning District is one hundred twenty-five (125) feet from an intersection or interchange.
c.
A billboard is allowed within five hundred (500) feet of an interchange or intersection if it is affixed to or located adjacent to a building so that the billboard does not cause any greater obstruction of vision than caused by the building itself.
4.
Separation From Historic Resources. The separation distance for a billboard is three hundred (300) feet from any property or district listed on the National Register of Historic Places, any National Historic Landmark, or any location officially designated by the City as a historic landmark or historic district.
5.
Separation From Buildings.
a.
The separation distance for a billboard is fifty (50) feet from any point of a building.
b.
However, the separation distance for lots in the southeast quadrant of the intersection of two (2) Missouri State highways located in the "C-2" Zoning District is twenty-five (25) feet from any point of a building.
6.
Separation From On-Premises Signs. The separation distance for electronic billboards is two hundred fifty (250) feet from an existing freestanding on-premises electronic message sign.
C.
Other Location Standards.
1.
Billboards are not allowed on rocks, trees, or poles maintained by a public utility.
2.
Billboards are exempt from front, side, and rear yard building setbacks for the district. However, Billboards require a thirty (30) foot minimum setback from a road right-of-way.
3.
Billboards are not allowed in the right-of-way of any road or on any slope or drainage easement for a road.
Section 400.1590 Replacement And Relocation Of Billboards In The I-70 Corridor.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Conversion Of Billboard To Electronic Billboard. The owner of a billboard along the I-70 Corridor may apply for approval of a conditional use permit to relocate the billboard structure for conversion to an electronic billboard. The following conditions apply:
1.
The property where the billboard is located is directly adjacent to the Interstate 70 right-of-way;
2.
All existing billboards and freestanding on-premises electronic message signs and their supporting structures are permanently removed from the property where the electronic billboard is proposed before the issuance of a building permit for the electronic billboard;
3.
No freestanding on-premises electronic message signs or billboards are allowed on the property upon which an electronic billboard is located;
4.
The electronic billboard is proposed on the same lot as the existing billboard and is no further than two hundred fifty (250) feet from the existing billboard being replaced;
5.
The lot where the electronic billboard is proposed is at least five (5) acres;
6.
The electronic billboard complies with all provisions of this Article, except for the separation distance from other billboards in Section 400.1580(B)(1); and
7.
The maximum number of sign faces or surfaces permitted on the electronic billboard is two (2).
B.
Transfer Of Electronic Billboard Conversion. The owner of a billboard who has received conditional use approval to replace a billboard with an electronic billboard and has not installed the electronic billboard may apply for approval of a conditional use permit to transfer the right to install the electronic billboard at a different location on a new billboard support structure. The following conditions apply:
1.
The property where the originally approved billboard is located and the property where the relocated billboard is proposed are both adjacent to Interstate 70 right-of-way between the eastern limit of the City of St. Charles and the Interstate 70/Highway 94 interchange;
2.
All existing billboards and freestanding on-premises electronic message signs and their supporting structures are permanently removed from the lot where the electronic billboard is proposed before the issuance of a building permit for the electronic billboard;
3.
Additional billboards and additional freestanding on-premises electronic message signs are not allowed on the lot after the electronic billboard is constructed;
4.
The lot where the electronic billboard is proposed is at least three (3) acres;
5.
The maximum sign area of the relocated billboard does exceed the lesser of the maximum sign area of the originally approved billboard or six hundred seventy-two (672) square feet;
6.
Upon approval of a conditional use permit for an I-70 corridor electronic billboard relocation, the original conditional use approval for an electronic billboard becomes null and void;
7.
The new billboard structure and electronic billboard must comply with all provisions of this Article, except for:
a.
The separation distance requirements of Section 400.1580(B)(1);
b.
The separation distance requirements of Section 400.1580(B)(2); and
c.
The height limitations of Section 400.1570(C);
8.
The maximum number of sign faces or surfaces permitted on a new billboard structure is two (2). If a conditional use approval to install only one (1) electronic billboard face is being transferred, a new billboard structure may only support one (1) electronic billboard face and one (1) additional face that is not considered to be electronic; and
9.
The maximum total height of the new billboard structure does not exceed sixty-five (65) feet above the natural grade where the billboard is installed or the grade level of the centerline of the highway to which the sign is oriented, whichever is higher.
Section 400.1600 Sign Permits.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
B.
Conformity Required. Failure to conform to the conditions of a sign permit, including any conditions or stipulations attached to it by the Department of Community Development, HLPARB, or any applicable board, renders the permit void.
C.
Filing Fee. Fees for sign permits are required in the amounts stated in Section 150.030: Schedule of Fees, Fines, Costs, and Deposits.
D.
Scope Of Permit. Sign permits include approval of electrical work. All electrical work shall comply with the Electrical Code.
E.
Permit Procedures.
1.
Applicants for sign permits shall apply on a form supplied by the City and shall submit the application to the Community Development Department.
2.
The application requires one (1) set of drawings in digital or paper format as provided on the City's application, prepared to scale, of the proposed sign, including all of the following information:
a.
The address of the site for the proposed signage, the applicant's name, the name of the business, the business address, business telephone number, and contractor information;
b.
The configuration of the proposed signage listing the height, width, total square footage, method of attachment, and method of illumination, including details of the fixture and screening, and colors and materials;
c.
A site plan showing the proposed locations of signs;
d.
Building elevations showing proposed locations of signs; and
e.
A detailed plan showing the size, quantity, and type of landscaping for freestanding signs.
F.
Review Of Sign Permit Applications.
1.
The Director of Community Development or their designee shall review and approve or deny all sign permit applications required by this Article based on the standards of this Article.
2.
In locations where HLPARB approval is required, the Director or their designee shall set the matter for consideration by the HLPARB at its next regular meeting and issue a decision on the application in conformance with the HLPARB's determination.
3.
Sign permit applications shall not be reviewed until land use approval has been issued for the subject property. Applicants are advised that obtaining land use approval may require additional time if approvals from the Planning and Zoning Commission or City Council are necessary to establish compliance with applicable land use regulations.
G.
Expiration Of Sign Permit.
1.
Construction of a sign requiring approval of a sign permit shall begin within one hundred eighty (180) days of its approval by City staff, the HLPARB, or City Council and be complete and functioning within two hundred forty (240) days of the approval.
2.
The permit for any sign that is not constructed within the required period is automatically revoked.
Section 400.1610 Master Sign Plans.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Purpose. This Section describes the process for review of master sign plans for Planned Development Districts, which may require special signage consideration. In order to encourage superior design, quality and character, master sign plans allow for specialized review of signs and flexibility from standard signage requirements. If a master sign plan exists for a multi-lot development or subdivision, then individual lots within that subdivision or development shall not submit their own, separate master sign plan.
B.
Applicability.
1.
Planned Development Districts.
a.
Master sign plans are not required for Planned Developments.
b.
However, a master sign plan is required if the applicant proposes to vary the sign standards of this Article in the ordinance adopting the Planned Development District.
c.
If the applicant elects to submit a master sign plan for a Planned Development District, the applicant shall submit it with the Preliminary Development Plan.
C.
Contents. A master sign plan must include the following information:
1.
An overall sign program with standards that address design, lighting, color, materials, and type and method of construction to ensure that all signs within the development are designed in a consistent and compatible manner;
2.
A written statement with supporting, scaled graphics that include, for all freestanding and attached signs:
a.
Size, location, and number of all signs, including area, letter height, and height;
b.
Materials, styles (letter colors, background colors, text, fonts, etc.), and colors for all signs subject to the master sign plan, including the context of where signs are placed along any site frontage or on any facade;
c.
Type of illumination; and
d.
A design theme with illustrative examples of each sign type and the proposed general locations of each sign type.
3.
A site plan and elevations identifying the location, number, setback, dimensional standards, and other design standards for all freestanding signs;
4.
Standards for wall signs and other types of attached signs; and
5.
Standards for any other proposed signage.
D.
Review Process.
1.
Planned Development Districts.
a.
The Planning and Zoning Commission shall review master sign plans and include recommendations to the City Council based on the following criteria:
b.
In reviewing the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, City Council has legislative discretion to approve, modify, or deny the proposed master sign plan.
E.
Amendment Procedure. A master sign plan may be amended. Amendments shall follow the process for a new submittal under this Section, unless it is determined to be minor by the Director of Community Development.
Section 400.1620 Maintenance.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Maintenance Required. Failure to comply with the maintenance requirements of this Section constitutes a violation of this Article.
B.
C.
Notice And Repair. The owner or person in possession of the property shall repair any damage to a sign or sign base within sixty (60) days of notice.
D.
Damage To Illuminated Signs. Any internally illuminated sign cabinets or sign panels that have been damaged shall remain unilluminated until repaired.
E.
Removal Of Hazardous Signs. Any sign that has been damaged to such an extent that it poses a hazard to passersby requires immediate repair or removal.
F.
Maintenance Of Required Landscaped Areas.
1.
Maintenance Required. The owner or person in possession of a lot shall maintain any landscaped area required by this Article as a condition of the sign permit.
2.
Maintenance Standards.
a.
Maintenance includes, as appropriate, the provision of surface mulch, staking and guying, tree straightening, irrigation, fertilization, insect and disease control, pruning, mulching, and weeding.
b.
The owner or person in possession of a lot shall keep all required landscaping free of litter and debris.
3.
Replacement Of Plants.
a.
Any plants that die or are removed as a result of death, disease, or damage require replacement in a reasonable time with an equal number and similar species and size at the next appropriate growing season.
b.
Failure to replace dead, damaged, or diseased plant material constitutes a violation of this Article.
Section 400.1630 Enforcement.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Unauthorized Signs. City staff may remove unauthorized signs in the right-of-way or on public property without notice. City staff may dispose of these signs within seven (7) days if they are not claimed.
B.
Signs Erected In Violation Of This Article.
C.
Administration.
1.
Enforcement.
a.
The Department of Community Development is authorized and directed to enforce all of the provisions of this Article and perform the functions outlined for City staff within this Article.
b.
Upon presentation of proper credentials, City staff may enter at reasonable times any building, structure, or premises in the City to perform any duty imposed upon them by this Article.
2.
Violations.
a.
Any person violating any of the provisions of this Article is guilty of an ordinance violation.
b.
The owner of any sign, building, or premises where any sign or other object that violates this Article is placed or exists, and any person who has knowingly assisted in the commission of any violation is guilty of a separate offense.
Section 400.1640 Non-Conforming Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Non-Conforming Signs.
1.
Any sign that lawfully exists at the time of enactment of this Article may remain until the sign is substantially altered or changed or until another sign is proposed as a replacement for the existing sign. The replacement sign requires conformance with all provisions of this Article.
2.
A non-conforming sign that is damaged to the extent of more than fifty percent (50%) of its replacement cost value requires removal or alterations to ensure conformity with the provisions of this Article.
B.
Non-Conforming Billboards.
1.
A billboard that lawfully existed at the time of enactment of this Article may remain if the owner maintains it in good repair as required by Section 400.1620.
2.
A non-conforming billboard that is not maintained in good repair is subject to removal or alterations to conform with this Article if it is damaged to the extent of more than fifty percent (50%) of its replacement cost value.
Section 400.1650 Abandoned Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-056, 7-1-2025]
A.
Abandoned Signs.
1.
Any sign or sign support structure for a business, organization, tenant, or other occupant of a lot that ceases operations on the premises for a period of at least thirty (30) days is considered abandoned.
2.
The owner or person in possession of the lot shall remove abandoned signs and support structures from the premises.