Shawano City Zoning Code
ARTICLE IX
Signage
§ 10-140 Purpose.
(1)
The purpose of this article is to establish standards for the fabrication, erection, and use of signs, and to regulate the location, type, size, and height of signage for all properties within the City of Shawano. The adoption of this article reflects the formal finding of fact by the City of Shawano Plan Commission and Common Council that regulation of signage advances the following compelling governmental interests:
(a)
Promotes the public welfare, health, and safety of all persons using public thoroughfares and rights-of-way within the City of Shawano in relation to the signage displayed thereon, or overhanging, or projecting into such public spaces.
(b)
Advances the aesthetic goals of the City throughout the community, and ensures the effectiveness and flexibility in the design, creativity, or use of signage without creating a detriment to the general public.
(c)
Reduces signage which the City has determined is a cause of unsafe traffic and visibility conditions.
(2)
Furthermore, this regulation leaves ample and adequate alternative channels of commercial speech communication for the messages portrayable on such advertising signs, namely, distributed print media, broadcast media, and point-of-purchase display, and is narrowly defined so as to limit said prohibition to commercial speech on exterior signage.
(3)
The penalties of the City of Shawano Municipal Code may be applicable to violations of the provisions of this article.
§ 10-141 Sign defined.
(1)
Definition of a sign. In this chapter, the word "sign" means any object, device, display, structure, or part thereof, situated or visible from outdoors, which is used to advertise, identify, display, direct or attract attention to an object, person, institution, organization, business, product, service, event, or location by any means, including words, letters, figures, designs, logos, symbols, fixtures, colors, illumination, or projected images.
(2)
Signs do not include:
(a)
Any flag or emblem of any nation, organization of nations, state, or city, or any religious, fraternal, or civic organization.
(b)
Merchandise, pictures, or models of products or services incorporated in a window display.
(c)
Works of art which in no way identify a product including wall murals.
(d)
Scoreboards located on athletic fields.
(e)
Building colors and outline lighting which do not convey a logo or message specific to the use therein (as determined by the Zoning Administrator).
(f)
Traffic control and other public agency messages located within a right-of-way.
§ 10-142 Definitions and rules related to sign purposes.
This section describes the various purposes for signage. Figure 10-144a[1] establishes in which district(s) each sign purpose will be permitted.
(1)
Advertising sign, off-premises: a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered elsewhere than upon the premises where the sign is displayed. The premises shall include all lots that are contiguous, under unified single ownership and intended to remain under unified single ownership, and under the jurisdiction of this chapter. Off-premises advertising signs include billboards but do not include community information signs.
(2)
Auxiliary sign: a sign which provides special information such as price, hours of operation, or warning and which does not include brand names, or information regarding product lines or services. Examples of such signs include "no trespassing" signs and signs which list prices of gasoline.
(a)
Auxiliary signs may contain a business logo if the logo is less than one square foot in area.
(b)
Auxiliary signs listing gasoline prices may list up to one price per type of fuel, which must be displayed on a single structure.
(c)
With the exception of fuel price signs, the combined area of all auxiliary signs on any lot shall not exceed 50 square feet. Fuel price signs may not exceed 100 square feet per sign.
(3)
Business sign, on-premises: a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, offered, or manufactured upon the premises where the sign is located. The premises shall include all lots that are contiguous, under unified single ownership and intended to remain under unified single ownership under the jurisdiction of this chapter.
(4)
Community information sign: a temporary or permanent sign which is limited to the display of information of interest to the general community regarding scheduled public events, public activities, and public facilities. Community information signs do not include bulletin boards.
(a)
A monument sign is the only allowable configuration for community information signs.
(b)
The following entities are eligible to have a community information signs: village, city, state, or federal facilities; school district properties; and properties containing meeting rooms commonly open to public use.
(c)
Community information signs may be located on private or public property, including rights-of-way, but must meet the visibility requirements of § 10-103.
(d)
Only information regarding public events, public facilities, and public information of general interest to residents may be displayed on community information signs.
(e)
Community information signs may have changeable copy or be configured as a variable message sign.
(f)
Community information signs shall not exceed 100 square feet or 10 feet in height.
(g)
Community information signs are exempt from the requirements of Figure 10-144b.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Figure 10-144b is included at the end of § 10-144.
(h)
Community information signs shall not be counted as adding to the area of signage on the property on which it is placed for the purposes of regulating sign area.
(5)
Directional sign, on-premises: a sign which indicates only the name, logo, or symbol of a specific business destination within a development or lot and a directional arrow or symbol to that destination. The premises shall include all lots that are contiguous, under unified single ownership and intended to remain under unified single ownership under the jurisdiction of this chapter.
(a)
One on-premises directional sign permitted for each vehicular entrance/exit and one parking restrictions/conditions sign for each parking area.
(b)
On-premises directional signs shall not exceed eight square feet.
(6)
Directional sign, off-premises: a sign which indicates only the name, logo, or symbol of a specific business destination and a directional arrow or symbol to the destination.
(a)
Off-premises directional signs shall not exceed eight square feet.
(b)
Each lot is permitted two off-premises directional signs.
(c)
Off-premises directional signs shall not count toward the total permitted number and area of signs on the lot where the sign is located or on the subject property.
(7)
Group or large development sign: a sign displaying the collective name of a group of uses defined as either a group or large development under § 10-118, and/or the names and/or logos of individual occupants of the group development.
(a)
Each business shall be eligible for integration into a group or large development sign. The allocation of permitted sign area [See Subsection (7)(c).] for the group sign shall be determined by the property owner or designee.
(b)
Group and large development signs shall be freestanding signs per § 10-143(1).
(c)
The permitted sign area for group and large development signs may be double that permitted for a freestanding sign in the district in which it is located.
(8)
Temporary sign. Refer to § 10-146 of this chapter.
(9)
Variable message sign: a sign which displays words, lines, logos, graphic images, or symbols, which may be changed manually or electronically to provide different information, and which includes computer signs, electronic reader boards with changeable letters, LCD signs and other video display signs, and electronic time and temperature signs. Sign screens where the message or appearance is changed electronically shall be referred to as "electronic message centers (EMCs)."
(a)
All variable message signs shall comply with the following rules:
1.
All variable message signs shall be included in the calculation of total permitted sign area for the type of on-premises sign (on-building or freestanding) and the zoning district in which the sign is located.
2.
All variable message signs shall be equipped with photosensitive equipment which automatically adjusts the brightness and contrast of the sign in direct relation to the ambient outdoor illumination.
3.
All variable message signs shall comply with the lighting requirements of § 10-106.
4.
All variable message signs shall be maintained so as to be able to display messages in a complete and legible manner.
5.
All variable message signs shall be located no less than 100 feet from any parcel within a residential zoning district.
6.
No flashing signs. "Flashing" is defined as a variable message sign, including electronic message centers displaying text, images, and/or video, having a display that turns on and off more frequently than in three-second intervals. Scrolling of a consistently illuminated and formatted moving text message is not considered flashing.
(b)
Electronic message centers displaying text messages only.
1.
Static text messages.
a.
Static text messages feature stationary letters that may not scroll, flash, or move in any way.
b.
Static text messages shall be displayed for no less than three seconds with a maximum transition duration of one second.
2.
Moving text messages.
a.
Moving text messages feature letters that scroll or move.
b.
Moving text messages shall not scroll for longer than six seconds with a maximum transition duration of one second.
c.
Moving text messages shall not flash on and off at intervals less than three seconds. Scrolling of a consistently illuminated and formatted moving text message is not considered flashing.
3.
Both static and moving text messages may be displayed by the same electronic message center as long as the requirements of this section apply to each type of message.
4.
Electronic message centers displaying text messages only are permitted in all zoning districts.
5.
Design requirements.
a.
Electronic message centers displaying text messages may not exceed 33% of the sign's total permitted or existing area, whichever is smaller.
b.
Electronic message centers displaying text messages added to existing legal conforming signs must result in a design that is substantially within the height and size of the existing sign frame.
(c)
Electronic message centers displaying images and video that may be combined with text.
1.
Static images.
a.
Static images feature images and/or text that do not move in any way.
b.
Static images shall be displayed for no less than three seconds with a maximum transition duration of one second.
c.
Static images may not turn on and off at intervals less than three seconds. If the time duration minimums in this subsection are not met, the sign shall be considered flashing per Subsection (9)(a)6.
2.
Full-motion videos.
a.
Full-motion videos display moving images and/or text.
b.
Full-motion videos shall not display video clips exceeding six-second intervals, with a maximum transition duration of one second.
c.
Full-motion videos may not turn on and off or feature breaks in video clips at intervals less than three seconds. Video clips must be continuous from a minimum of three seconds to a maximum of six seconds in length. If the time duration minimums in this subsection are not met, the sign shall be considered flashing per Subsection (9)(a)6.
3.
Both static and full-motion videos may be displayed by the same electronic message center as long as the requirements of this section apply to each type of video.
4.
Electronic message centers are permitted to display full motion video in the Community Mixed Use (CMU) and Urban Mixed Use (UMU) Zoning Districts.
5.
Design requirements.
a.
All electronic message centers are permitted on freestanding sign configurations only. On-building electronic message centers are prohibited.
b.
New electronic message centers and electronic message centers replacing all or part of existing legal conforming signs.
i.
Electronic message centers must not exceed 75% of the sign's total existing or permitted area, whichever is smaller.
ii.
Electronic message centers added to existing legal conforming signs must result in a design that is substantially within the height and size of the existing sign frame.
c.
Electronic message centers replacing all or part of existing legal nonconforming signs within 500 feet from a connecting highway (STH 22, 29, Business 29, 47, and 55).
i.
Any modifications to a sign must bring the entire sign into compliance with the Zoning Code.
ii.
Electronic message centers may be added and must not exceed 75% of the resulting conforming sign's total area.
d.
Electronic message centers replacing all or part of existing legal nonconforming signs greater than 500 feet from a connecting highway (STH 22, 29, Business 29, 47, and 55).
i.
An electronic message center, not to exceed 75% of the sign's existing total area, may be added if the resulting design is substantially within the height and size of the existing sign frame.
ii.
The existing sign area of signs in this location may be replaced without adding an electronic message center so long as the resulting design is substantially within the height and size of the existing sign frame.
[1]
Editor's Note: Figure 10-144a is included at the end of § 10-144.
§ 10-143 Definitions and rules related to sign configurations.
(1)
Freestanding sign: a sign resting on or supported by means of post, pylons, or any other type of base on the ground. The following freestanding sign configurations are addressed by this chapter:
(a)
Arm/post sign: a type of small-scale freestanding sign mounted on a post or posts, either with a bracket arm extending outward to support a hanging sign, with the sign attached directly to the side of the post, or with the sign mounted between two posts.
(b)
Monument sign: a type of freestanding sign with a bottom edge located within one foot of a ground-mounted pedestal.
(c)
Pylon sign: a type of freestanding sign erected upon one or more pylon, pole, or post, generally of a scale that is larger than an arm/post sign.
(d)
Rules for all freestanding signs.
1.
Freestanding signs shall not be erected so as to impede visibility for safe pedestrian and/or vehicular circulation.
2.
The base or support(s) of freestanding signs shall be securely anchored to a concrete base or footing.
3.
The footing and related supporting structure of a freestanding sign, including bolts, flanges, and brackets, shall be concealed by landscaping.
(2)
On-building signs: a type of sign permanently affixed to an outside wall of a building. The following on-building sign configurations are addressed by this chapter:
(a)
Awning/canopy sign: a sign that is directly affixed via sewing, painting, or similar method to a non-rigid removable awning or canopy which is mounted to the facade of a building.
1.
Text and/or logos shall be centered on the vertical face of the lower part of an awning/canopy and shall not project below or above the vertical awning/canopy surface.
2.
Text and/or logos on an awning shall be limited to 12 inches vertically and shall not exceed 33% of the awning/canopy area.
(b)
Marquee sign: a sign mounted to a permanent roof-like structure that projects out from the exterior wall of a structure and shelters the entrance and/or entrance approaches to a building.
1.
Marquee signs shall be mounted parallel to the vertical surface of the marquee and not project more than 18 inches beyond the vertical surface of the marquee.
2.
No part of a marquee sign shall extend beyond the top, bottom, or side edges of the vertical face of the marquee surface.
(c)
Projecting sign: a sign mounted at any angle other than parallel to the wall on which it is mounted and/or extends beyond 18 inches from the wall.
1.
Projecting signs shall not project more than six feet from the wall on which it is mounted.
2.
No portion of a projecting sign shall extend lower than 10 feet above the ground, measured from the grade immediately below the sign.
3.
No portion of a projecting sign shall extend higher than 20 feet above the mean center-line street grade.
4.
No projecting sign shall extend above the topmost edge of an exterior wall.
(d)
Suspended sign: a sign that is suspended from the underside of a horizontal plane surface and is supported by such surface.
1.
No portion of a suspended sign shall extend lower than 10 feet above the ground, measured from the grade immediately below the sign.
(e)
Wall sign: a sign mounted parallel to and directly on a building facade or other vertical building surface.
1.
Wall signs shall not project more than 16 inches beyond the edge of any wall or other surface to which they are mounted.
2.
The top of the sign shall not extend above the top edge of the vertical wall or above the lowest edge of a roofline of the portion of the building to which it is mounted.
(f)
Painted wall sign: a wall sign painted directly on a building facade.
[Added 1-15-2020 by Ord. No. 1980]
1.
Painted wall signs shall be professionally painted. Professional hand painting is permitted.
2.
No part of the painted wall sign shall wrap around the corner of the building onto another facade, unless that facade is also eligible for a painted wall sign.
3.
Painted wall signs shall use a durable and long-lasting paint designed to withstand the elements. Acrylic or mineral-based paint products are recommended.
4.
Painted wall signs shall not diminish a building's architectural integrity.
5.
Painted wall signs shall be regularly maintained or touched up to maintain legibility and avoid the appearance of peeling paint, per § 10-150(7).
6.
Murals or works of art which in no way identify a product shall not be regulated under this chapter.
7.
A painted wall sign would count towards a business's permitted business signs.
(3)
Moveable signs: a type of permanent sign that may be moved. The following moveable sign configurations are addressed by this chapter:
(a)
Advertising vehicle sign: a vehicle or trailer parked on a public right-of-way or private property so as to be seen from a public right-of-way, attached to which or located or painted thereon is any sign or advertising device for the basic purpose of providing advertisement of products or directing people to a business activity located on the same or nearby property or any other premise. Business vehicles which contain typical business signage and which are actively used for business purposes are not considered advertising vehicle signs. Advertising vehicle signs are prohibited per § 10-148(1)(g).
(b)
Mobile/portable sign: a sign not permanently attached to the ground that is designed to be moved from one location to another; also, a sign mounted on a frame or chassis designed to be easily relocated, including vehicles and/or trailers whose principal commercial use is for signage. See § 10-147 for regulations.
(c)
Daily notice signs. Daily notice signs include freestanding sandwich board signs and on-building menu board signs. See § 10-147 for regulations.
(4)
Window sign. A type of sign located within a building that is attached to the inside face of an exterior window and visible from the exterior of the building. See § 10-147 for regulations.
Figure 10-143 Sign Configuration Illustrations and Photo Examples | |
Arm/Post Sign  |  |
Monument Sign  |  |
Pylon Sign  |  |
Awning/Canopy Sign  |  |
Marquee Sign  |  |
Projecting Sign  |  |
Suspended Sign  |  |
Wall Sign  |  |
§ 10-144 Permitted signs by district.
[Amended 1-15-2020 by Ord. No. 1980; 7-10-2024 by Ord. No. 2031]]
(1)
The purpose and configuration of signs shall be allowed on private property in the City in accordance with Figure 10-144a. If the letter "Y" appears for a sign type in a column, such sign is allowed without prior permit approval in the zoning districts represented by that column. If the letter "P" appears for a sign type in a column, such sign is allowed only with prior permit approval in the zoning districts represented by that column. Special conditions may apply in some cases. If the letter "N" appears for a sign type in a column, such a sign is not allowed in the zoning districts represented by that column under any circumstances.
(a)
Although permitted under Subsection (1) of this section, a sign designated by an "Y" or "P" in Figure 10-144a shall be allowed only if:
1.
The sum of the area of all building and freestanding signs on the zoning lot conforms to the maximum permitted sign area as determined by the formula for the zoning district in which the lot is located and with any additional limitations in other applicable sections of this chapter.
2.
The size, location, and number of signs on the lot conform to the requirements of Figure 10-144-a and Figure 10-144b, which establish permitted sign dimensions and characteristics by sign type, and with any additional limitations in other applicable sections of this chapter.
(b)
Signage for all uses in the Planned Development Zoning Districts shall be permitted per the base zoning district or as modified in the approved specific implementation plan's signage plan in § 10-177(3)(d)1g.
(c)
Key to Figure 10-144a and Figure 10-144b. On the tables in this chapter which are organized by zoning district, the headings have the following meanings:
Abbreviation | Uses and Zoning Districts |
|---|---|
SFDs | Residential, single-family detached districts, including SR-2, SR-4, SR-5, SR-6, and SR-7 |
MFDs | Residential, duplex and multifamily districts, including TR-6, MR-10, MR-20, and MH-8 |
INS | All institutional uses in all districts |
RH and NMU | Rural and neighborhood districts, including RH-35, NMU and PL |
CMU and UMU | Community and Urban Mixed Use Districts, including CMU, UMU, and PD |
DMU | Downtown Mixed Use, including DMU |
INDs | Industrial and business districts, including BP, LI, GI, and ME |
Figure 10-144a Permitted Signs by Purpose/Configuration and Zoning District | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zoning Districts | ||||||||
Purpose/Configuration | SFDs | MFDs | INS1 | RH and NMU | DMU | CMU and UMU | INDs | |
Sign Purpose | ||||||||
Advertising sign, off-premises | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | |
Business sign, on-premises | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | |
Auxiliary sign | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
Community information sign | C | C | C | C | C | C | C | |
Directional sign, off-premises | N | N | Y2 | N | N | N | N | |
Directional sign, on-premises | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
Group or large development sign | P | P | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
Temporary sign3 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
Variable message sign | C | C | P | P | P | P | P | |
Sign Configuration: Freestanding | ||||||||
Arm/post sign | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | |
Monument sign | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | |
Pylon sign | N | N | N | N | N | P | P | |
Sign Configuration: On-Building | ||||||||
Awning/canopy sign | N | N | P | P | P | P | P | |
Marquee sign4 | N | N | P | P | P | P | P | |
Projecting sign4 | N | N | P | P | P | P | P | |
Suspended sign4 | N | N | P | P | P | P | P | |
Wall sign | P | P | P | P | P | P | P | |
Painted wall sign | N | N | N | N | P | N and C | N | |
Sign Configuration: Moveable | ||||||||
Daily notice sign | N | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | |
Mobile/portable sign | Permitted on a temporary basis as approved by the Zoning Administrator | |||||||
Advertising vehicle sign | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | |
Signs Permitted Without a Permit: See § 10-147. | ||||||||
KEY: | ||||||||
Y = Sign is allowed without prior permit approval. | ||||||||
P = Sign is allowed only with prior sign permit approval. | ||||||||
C = Sign is allowed only with prior conditional use permit approval. | ||||||||
N = Sign is not allowed in the zoning districts represented by that column under any circumstances. | ||||||||
Notes to Figure 10-144a: | ||||||||
1 | This column does not represent a zoning district. It applies to institutional uses as defined in § 10-57 in all zoning districts. Such uses may include but are not necessarily limited to schools, churches, universities, government facilities, and assisted living facilities. | |||||||
2 | Off-premises directional signs for institutional uses may be located in any zoning district. | |||||||
3 | No commercial message allowed on sign, except for a commercial message drawing attention to an activity legally offered on the premises. | |||||||
4 | If such a sign is suspended or projects above a public right-of-way, the issuance and continuation of a sign permit shall be conditioned on the sign owner agreeing to hold the City harmless, and obtaining and maintaining in force liability insurance for such a sign in such form and such amount as the City may reasonably from time to time determine, provided that the amount of such liability insurance shall be at least $500,000 per occurrence per sign. | |||||||
5 | All illuminated signs shall comply with the lighting requirements of § 10-106. | |||||||
Figure 10-144b Permitted Sign Characteristics by Zoning District1 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Zoning Districts | ||||||||
Sign Characteristic | SFDs | MFDs | INS2 | RH and NMU | DMU | CMU and UMU | INDs | |
Freestanding (permanent) | ||||||||
Sign area calculation | 1 square foot per foot of public right-of-way frontage | |||||||
Maximum area of all freestanding signs (square feet) | 50 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 200 | |
Maximum height: arm/post or monument sign3 (feet) | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 12 | 12 | 12 | |
Maximum height: pylon sign3 (feet) | — | — | — | — | — | 20 | 20 | |
Number per lot4 | 1 per public right-of-way frontage | |||||||
On-Building (permanent) | ||||||||
Maximum area per building facade | 1 square foot per linear foot of building frontage5 | |||||||
Number per tenant | 1 per public right-of-way frontage | 2 per public right-of-way frontage; 1 for non-frontage wall with adjacent customer parking of 8 or more spaces | ||||||
Sign types not contributing to maximum area or number of signs are listed in § 10-147. | ||||||||
Notes to Figure 10-144b: | ||||||||
1 | See § 10-143 for additional regulations for specific sign types. | |||||||
2 | This column does not represent a zoning district. It applies to institutional uses as defined in § 10-57 in all zoning districts. Such uses may include but are not necessarily limited to schools, churches, universities, government facilities, and assisted living facilities. | |||||||
3 | See §§ 10-143 and 10-153 for sign height measurement. | |||||||
4 | No lot may have both a group and large development sign and any separate freestanding sign. | |||||||
5 | Regardless of the length of the building frontage, each tenant with exterior frontage is allowed a minimum of 50 square feet for on-building signage. | |||||||
§ 10-145 Sign setback, height, measurement and flexibility.
(1)
Sign setbacks. All freestanding signs shall meet the yard requirements for the district in which it is located, or be set back a minimum of five feet from the front property line, whichever is less.
(2)
Sign height.
(a)
The height of a freestanding sign shall be measured from the average ground level adjacent to the sign to the top of the sign, or from the center-line grade of the nearest adjacent public road, if such information is supplied with the permit application and confirmed by the Zoning Administrator, whichever is higher.
(b)
The "average ground level" is defined as the average elevation of the ground upon which the sign supports are placed, except when the sign supports rest upon a berm or other area elevated above the surrounding ground. In such cases, the average elevation of the base of such berm or other area shall be considered as the ground level.
(3)
Minimum ground clearance. All pylon signs, projecting, marquee, and canopy/awning signs shall have a minimum clearance of eight feet from grade to the bottom of the sign and shall not project into any vehicle circulation area, beyond any public street curbline, or beyond any public street pavement edge if no curb is present.
(4)
Measurement of sign area: The measurement of sign area is based on the arrangement of sign copy and sign background:
(a)
For signs comprised of individual letters and related copy which are attached to a background surface with one or more neutral surface colors, sign area shall be measured as the sum of the smallest rectangle enclosing each letter or related copy. (See Example 1 in Figure 10-145b[1].)
[1]
Editor's Note: Figure 10-145b is included at the end of § 10-145.
(b)
For signs comprised of individual letters and related copy which are attached to a background surface with one or more nonneutral background colors, sign area shall be measured as the sum of the smallest rectangles and right triangles enclosing the entire sign message and any and all nonneutral background color areas. (See Example 2 in Figure 10-145b.)
(c)
For signs comprised of letters and related copy surrounded by one or more sign background colors on a single panel, sign area shall be measured as the smallest single rectangle enclosing the entire sign message and any and all background color areas. (See Example 3 in Figure 10-145b.)
(d)
For signs comprised of individual letters and related copy surrounded by one or more sign background colors on individual panels, sign area shall be measured as the smallest single rectangle enclosing the entire sign message and any and all background color areas. (See Example 4 in Figure 10-145b.)
(e)
For signs comprised of one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture or statue-like trademarks), the sign area shall be measured as their maximum projection upon a vertical plane.
(f)
In the case of a freestanding sign (including three-dimensional objects), sign area shall include the total sign areas per Subsection (4)(a) through (d) above, that can be viewed from any single vantage point (i.e., for a typical freestanding sign which faces two directions, only one face of the sign shall comprise the sign area). Sign area shall not include any elements of the sign structure designed solely for support of the sign structure and located below or to the side of the sign message. Examples of parts of a freestanding sign structure which are exempt from the sign area include the sign base and the supporting columns, posts, or poles.
(5)
Flexibility: The City shall allow the following flexibility for signage. Flexibility for either height or area shall be permitted, but not both.
(a)
Height of freestanding sign. A sign may exceed the height requirements in Figure 10-144b if for every additional foot of height, the setback increases one foot. The maximum height of the sign shall in no case exceed the maximum wall height of the primary structure.
(b)
Area of freestanding sign. A sign may exceed the area requirements in Figure 10-144b if for every additional square foot of area, the setback increases one foot. The maximum area of the freestanding sign shall in no case exceed 150% of the permitted area.
(c)
Location of on-building signs. Signs may be relocated from one permitted wall to another permitted wall as long as the total sign area does not exceed the maximum sign area permitted for that wall. (See Figure 10-145a.)
(d)
Area of on-building signs. See Subsection (4) for flexibility in measuring sign area.
Figure 10-145a Location of On-Building Signs  |
Figure 10-145b Measurement of Sign Area  |
§ 10-146 Temporary signs.
(1)
Definition: a sign or advertising display (including festoons, pennants, banners, pinwheels and similar devices) intended to be displayed for a certain limited period of time. Included in the definition of "temporary signs" are retailers' signs temporarily displayed for the purpose of informing the public of a sale or special offer. If a sign display area is permanent but the message displayed is subject to periodic changes, that sign shall not be considered as temporary. A mobile or portable sign shall not be considered a temporary sign or used for such a purpose.
(2)
General regulations.
(a)
A sign permit shall not be required for all temporary signs that meet the requirements of this chapter.
(b)
Except as may be allowed below, any one business or other user on a lot is permitted to display no more than one temporary sign at a single time.
(c)
All temporary signs shall be anchored and supported in a manner which reasonably prevents the possibility of the signs becoming hazards to the public health and safety.
(d)
Except as indicated below or as otherwise approved by the Zoning Administrator, no temporary sign may be placed in or over any public right-of-way.
(3)
Regulations for specific temporary sign types.
(a)
Real estate signs: signs used to offer for sale, lease, or rent the property upon which the sign is placed.
1.
One nonilluminated real estate sign is allowed per street frontage.
2.
Such sign shall be removed within 30 days of the sale or lease of the single space it is advertising or of at least 90% of the total land or space available for sale or lease on the property.
3.
Such sign shall not exceed eight square feet area in residential districts and 32 square feet in area in nonresidential districts.
(b)
Construction/future tenant signs.
1.
Two construction/future tenant signs permitted per construction site.
2.
Signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in residential districts and 100 square feet in nonresidential districts.
[Amended 12-8-2021 by Ord. No. 2001]
3.
Such signs shall be confined to the site of construction and shall be removed 30 days after completion of construction prior to occupancy, whichever is sooner.
(c)
Banners: banners promoting public events of City-wide interest displayed over a public street, alley, or highway when approved by the Zoning Administrator.
1.
Such signs shall not be erected more than 30 days before the event and shall be removed within five days after the event.
2.
Such signs shall be erected only in locations approved by the Zoning Administrator.
(d)
Personal greeting or congratulatory signs. One personal greeting or congratulatory sign or object per premises shall be permitted for up to seven days, limited to eight feet in height and 32 square feet in area and which is not intended for commercial purposes.
(e)
Political signs. Signs promoting a candidate or position on an issue for an upcoming election must meet the requirements of § 12.03, Wis. Stats.
1.
Said signs may be erected no earlier than 60 days prior to the primary election and shall be removed within seven days following said general election.
2.
Each sign shall not exceed eight square feet in residential districts and 16 square feet in nonresidential districts.
3.
No sign shall be located within five feet of the public right-of-way at a street intersection, over the right-of-way, nor on any publicly owned property.
(f)
Public event signs: for a temporary event of public interest hosted by and/or held at a community organization or institutional facility, such as a fair operated by a nonprofit organization.
1.
One such sign may be located upon the site of the event.
2.
A second sign for such a temporary event may be placed on a separate private property with written permission of the property owner submitted to the Zoning Administrator.
3.
Each such sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area.
4.
The content of such signs shall be limited to the name of the event, location, direction, and/or distance to the event.
5.
Such signs shall not be erected more than 30 days before the event and shall be removed within five days after the event.
(g)
Temporary commercial signs and banners: signs advertising sales, limited time offers, grand openings, or other special events including "Open" flags.
1.
Such signs not exceeding 32 square feet in area, and not greater than eight feet in height if ground-mounted nor extending above the roofline if building-mounted.
2.
Display of such signs shall be limited to 30 days.
(h)
Mobile/portable signs: a sign not permanently attached to the ground that is designed to be moved from one location to another; also, a sign mounted on a frame or chassis designed to be easily relocated, including vehicles and/or trailers whose principal commercial use is for signage. Mobile/portable signs shall not be used as permanent signs but are instead considered and regulated as temporary signs. Sandwich boards meeting the definition and requirements of § 10-147 of this chapter shall not be considered mobile or portable signs.
1.
Display of mobile/portable signs shall be limited to 10 consecutive days and no more than 30 days per calendar year.
2.
One mobile/portable sign is permitted per property.
3.
No sign shall be located within five feet of the public right-of-way at a street intersection or in the right-of-way.
§ 10-147 Signs not requiring a permit; do not count toward maximum permitted sign area.
The following signs are permitted in all zoning districts without the need for a permit. Such signs shall not count toward the maximum permitted sign area in the zoning district in which they are located.
(1)
Daily notice signs. Daily notice signs include freestanding sandwich board signs and on-building menu board signs. One daily notice sign per customer entrance is permitted. The owner of the customer entrance may select which type of daily notice sign to use: either one sandwich board sign or one menu board sign.
(a)
Daily notice signs do not count as a business sign for the purpose of regulating the number of business signs or the area of business signs allowed on the property.
(b)
Rules for sandwich board signs:
1.
Location requirements for sandwich board signs. A sandwich board may be placed between the side of the building with the customer entrance and the curb, provided that:
a.
There is not adequate space available on the premises to place the sign in a manner that is visible to the public.
b.
The sign is placed directly in front of the business to which it is related.
c.
A minimum of five feet in width of unobstructed travel way remains available on the sidewalk at all times.
d.
Sandwich board signs shall be placed a minimum of one foot (12 inches) from any of the following: doorway, loading zone, crosswalk, curb cut, bike rack, bench or any other public facility or fixture for vehicles or pedestrians.
e.
Sandwich board signs shall not obstruct access to any fire hydrant, fire escape or fire door, or obstruct the clear view of any traffic signal, regulatory sign or street sign. Whether such a prohibited obstruction is created by the sandwich board sign shall be the determination of the City.
f.
Sandwich board signs shall be kept inside the building when the business is closed.
2.
Configuration requirements for sandwich board signs:
a.
No portion of a sandwich board sign shall be more than four feet high or more than three feet wide, including any part of its frame or supporting structure.
b.
Anything attached to a sandwich board sign shall not project beyond the perimeter of the sign face nor project in excess of one inch from the sign face.
3.
Material requirements for sandwich board signs:
a.
Sandwich boards may be made of any material.
b.
Sandwich boards shall be heavy enough to remain stationary in moderate winds.
4.
Illumination requirements for sandwich board signs:
a.
Sandwich boards may not be illuminated by any means other than an ambient light source, such as the sun or a streetlight.
(c)
Rules for menu board signs.
1.
Location requirements for menu board signs:
a.
Menu board signs shall be securely affixed to the exterior wall of the building containing the use.
2.
Configuration requirements for menu board signs.
a.
Menu board sign surface area and its surrounding frame and structure shall not exceed eight square feet.
b.
Menu board signs shall not extend more than three inches from the wall on which it is mounted.
c.
Moving signs such as traveling message boards, electronic message boards and video screens are prohibited.
d.
Anything attached to a menu board sign shall not project outside the perimeter of the sign face nor project in excess of one inch from the sign face.
3.
Material requirements for menu board signs.
a.
Menu board signs may be made of any material.
4.
Illumination requirements for menu board signs.
a.
Menu board signs may not be illuminated by any means other than an ambient light source, such as the sun or a streetlight.
(2)
Address: address numerals and other information to identify a location by law, order, rule, or regulation, provided that such sign does not exceed one square foot in area per officially assigned address, or the size required by law, order, rule, or regulation, whichever is greater.
(3)
Auxiliary sign: per § 10-142(2) of this chapter, if fewer than four square feet in area in residential districts or fewer than six square feet in area in nonresidential districts.
(4)
Bulletin board: on-premises signs not exceeding 20 square feet listing meetings, services, activities, or events for public, philanthropic, or religious institutions.
(5)
Commemorative sign: plaques, tablets, cornerstones, or lettering inlaid into the architectural materials of a building or structure, not exceeding four square feet, denoting the name of that structure or its date of erection.
(6)
Construction sign: per the temporary sign requirements of § 10-146(3)(b).
(7)
Flags: flags and insignia of governmental, civic, philanthropic, religious or educational organizations of less than 50 square feet in area, when not displayed in connection with a commercial promotion or as an advertising device.
(8)
Garage sale sign: permitted on premises on the day of the sale, not to exceed three times in one calendar year; may also be displayed off premises on the day of the sale only.
(9)
Government information sign: signs erected by or on behalf of a duly constituted governmental body, including, but not limited to, legal notices, handicap parking signs, traffic signs or other regulatory, directional or warning signs.
(10)
Identification sign: a sign not exceeding two square feet indicating the name and/or address of the property owner, tenant and/or manager of the property.
(11)
Interior sign: signs which are located on the interior of a premises and which are primarily oriented to persons within that premises.
(12)
Drive-through sign: one menu sign for a drive-in or drive-through establishment exclusive of any two-way microphone/speaker devices, provided that the sign does not exceed 25 square feet in area or eight feet in height.
(13)
Model home sign: per the temporary sign requirements of § 10-146(3)(a).
(14)
"Open" sign: illuminated or nonilluminated signs, not exceeding four square feet, which advertise a premises as open for business, with no more than one sign per street on which the property has frontage, and not more than two signs in aggregate which are in place only when the related premises are actually open for business.
(15)
Personal greeting/congratulatory sign: per the temporary sign requirements of § 10-146(3)(d).
(16)
Political/election sign: per the temporary sign requirements of § 10-146(3)(e).
(17)
Public event sign: per the temporary sign requirements of § 10-146(3)(f).
(18)
Real estate sign: per the temporary sign requirements of § 10-146(3)(a).
(19)
Site information sign: signs of no more than eight square feet which, without including advertising of any kind, provide instructions and/or direction to facilities intended to serve the public, such as rest rooms, public telephones, walkways, parking, and similar facilities.
(20)
Window sign. Window signs shall be limited to a maximum area that does not exceed 35% of the individual glass area as contained within a mullion or frame. There is no limit in the number of window signs.
§ 10-148 Prohibitions and limitations.
The regulations contained in this section apply to signs in all zoning districts.
(1)
Sign prohibitions.
(a)
No sign shall be erected at any location where it may, by reason of its position, shape, color or design, interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device, nor shall such sign make use of words such as "stop," "look," "danger," or any other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse users of streets or highways.
(b)
No fluttering, undulating, swinging, rotating, or otherwise moving signs.
(c)
No roof signs shall be permitted. No sign shall be mounted on, displayed on, or extend above the top edge of a roof.
(d)
No flashing, scrolling, or animated signs shall be permitted. Variable message signs meeting the definition and requirements of § 10-142(9) of this chapter shall not be considered flashing, scrolling, or animated signs.
(e)
No mobile or portable signs shall be permitted except on a temporary basis as regulated under § 10-146. Sandwich boards meeting the definition and requirements of § 10-147 of this chapter shall not be considered mobile or portable signs.
(f)
No inflatable signs shall be permitted.
(g)
No advertising vehicle signs shall be permitted.
(h)
No beacons or search beacons shall be permitted.
(i)
No billboards or off-premises advertising signs shall be permitted. Existing legal off-premises advertising signs made nonconforming by this section shall be permitted to continue as legal, nonconforming signs, subject to the requirements of § 10-151.
(j)
No abandoned signs shall be permitted.
(2)
Sign limitations.
(a)
No sign shall be erected, relocated, or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape, and no sign shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape.
(b)
No sign shall be placed in a manner that would impede vehicular or pedestrian safety, or impede access or visibility. Signs shall meet the visibility requirements of § 10-103.
(c)
No private sign shall be attached to or painted on any natural feature (e.g., tree or rock), fence, public utility pole, public light pole or traffic regulatory structure.
(d)
Illuminated signs shall be permitted except for within a residential zoning district. All illuminated signs shall comply with the lighting requirements of § 10-106.
(e)
Except for permitted projecting, awning, marquee, and sandwich board signs, or as may be specifically authorized in a specific implementation plan in a PD Zoning District meeting all of the applicable requirements of this chapter, or unless otherwise allowed by this chapter, shall be permitted within or extend into a public right-of-way.
§ 10-149 Sign permits required; application; enforcement; revocation.
(1)
Applicability.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided in § 10-147, only those permanent or temporary signs which have been granted a permit from the Zoning Administrator in accordance with the provisions of this section may be erected, installed, constructed, or maintained.
(b)
This section shall apply and be construed to require a permit for any conversions or changes in the sign structure. No permit is required for a change of sign copy.
(c)
This section shall not apply to repainting or refacing with the same sign copy, cleaning, repair, or other normal maintenance of the sign or sign structure.
(d)
No new permit is required for signs which are in place as of the effective date this chapter, and such signs may remain as legal nonconforming signs. Any alteration or relocation of such signs shall conform to the requirements of this chapter.
(e)
Any sign permit granted hereunder may not be assigned or transferred to any other sign, including a modified sign structure.
(f)
The owner or tenant may request that all such signs at one premises be included under one permit.
(2)
Sign permit application. Each sign permit application shall include:
(a)
The name, address, phone number, and e-mail address of the applicant.
(b)
The name, address, phone number, and e-mail address of the sign contractor.
(c)
The property's zoning designation and use of the building for which the sign will provide information.
(d)
A signage plan, drawn to a recognizable scale, for the property shall be submitted showing the following:
1.
Location, type, height, width, and area of the proposed sign.
2.
Location, type, height, width, and area of all existing signs on the property and indication of whether existing sign(s) will remain or be removed/replaced.
3.
All property lines and buildings on the property and within 50 feet of the proposed sign, except within the DMU District.
4.
All parking areas, driveways, and public roads.
5.
Method of attachment, structural support, method of illumination, and sign materials.
6.
Approximate value of the sign to be installed, including cost of installation.
(e)
If the sign contractor is not UL listed, the applicant must have an electrical subcontractor to supervise the work and obtain an electrical permit.
(f)
Payment of the sign permit fee, as established from time to time by the Common Council.
(g)
Any other information that may reasonably be requested by the Zoning Administrator for the purpose of application evaluation.
(h)
Any existing or proposed sign on property abutting a state, federal, or interstate highway shall also require approval from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation or the Federal Highway Administration.
(3)
Granting and issuance.
(a)
The Zoning Administrator shall review the application to ensure it is complete per the requirements of Subsection (2), above.
(b)
In cases where no other review or approvals are required under this chapter, the Zoning Administrator shall review said application for compliance with Subsection (4), below, and shall, in writing, either approve or deny said sign permit within 10 business days of the acceptance of the complete application and payment of the required fee.
(c)
In certain cases, a sign permit may not be granted prior to the approval of a conditional use permit. In such cases, the Zoning Administrator shall review said application for compliance with Subsection (4), below, and shall schedule the item on the appropriate meeting agenda(s) within 10 business days of the acceptance of the complete application and payment of the required fee. Within 10 business days of recommendation or action by the body with recommending or approval authority, the Zoning Administrator shall approve or deny said sign permit based on such recommendation or action.
(d)
Denial of a sign permit shall not result in total or partial reimbursement of permit fees paid.
(4)
Basis for granting a sign permit. In deciding whether or not to grant a sign permit, the Zoning Administrator shall determine whether the proposed sign is in compliance with the provisions of this chapter. In such review, the Zoning Administrator may also consider the following factors:
(a)
Whether the sign is compatible with the surroundings.
(b)
Whether the sign is designed, installed, and maintained to meet the sign user needs, while at the same time promoting general public needs and desires.
(c)
Whether the sign is designed, constructed, installed, or maintained in such a manner that it does not endanger public safety or traffic safety.
(d)
Whether the sign, including its size, height, illumination and location, is respectful of reasonable rights of other signs already displayed in the area.
(e)
Whether the sign is in compliance with all provisions of this Code, including those related to traffic safety, traffic visibility, sign setbacks, and structural integrity.
(5)
Enforcement and revocation of sign permit.
(a)
A sign permit may be revoked if the applicant has failed to comply with the provisions of this chapter or any conditions that may have accompanied the permit at the time of issuance. Revocation requires written notice by either the Zoning Administrator for Zoning Ordinance violations or the Building Inspector for building or other construction code violations.
(b)
In the event that construction, installation, or manufacture of a sign for which a permit has been issued has not commenced within 180 days from the date of the issuance of such permit, said permit shall be null and void and automatically revoked. If work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 90 days any time after the work is commenced, the original permit shall become null and void. In such cases, a new permit shall be obtained to complete the work and a new permit fee shall be required.
(c)
Any sign subject to a revoked permit shall be removed by the licensee, sign owner, or property owner within 45 days of such revocation.
(d)
Revocation shall not result in total or partial reimbursement of permit fees paid.
(6)
Appeals. Any person affected by a decision of the Zoning Administrator may petition for a hearing before the Board of Zoning Appeals. The filing of such petition automatically stays removal of any sign involved and already legally erected until the Board of Zoning Appeals decides whether to sustain, modify, or withdraw the notice.
(7)
Removal of signs in violation of this chapter.
(a)
If the Zoning Administrator determines that any sign exists in violation of this chapter, the Zoning Administrator shall notify the sign permit holder and the owner of the property on which the sign is located. Said notification shall indicate that such violation must be corrected within 60 days of receipt of said notice on penalty of automatic revocation of any sign permit, and that removal of the sign by the City may occur at the expense of the owner of the property.
(b)
If notification is sent and the violation is not corrected within 60 days, the Zoning Administrator shall revoke the permit for any sign which is in violation of this chapter. It shall be the duty of the Zoning Administrator to cause removal of such sign.
(c)
The expense of removing such sign shall be charged to the owner of the property on which the sign is located. If the owner fails to pay such expense within one month of being billed therefor, or has not made arrangement for payment satisfactory to the City Attorney, then such expense shall become a lien on the property and shall be placed upon the tax roll.
(d)
Any sign illegally placed in a public right-of-way shall be subject to immediate removal and confiscation without notice by the Zoning Administrator.
§ 10-150 Appearance, construction and maintenance of signage.
(1)
All signs shall be constructed, mounted, and maintained so as to comply with the appropriate detailed provisions of the building code as adopted by the City relating to the design, structural members and connections. Signs shall also comply with the applicable provisions of the electrical code as adopted by the City.
(2)
Signs shall be mounted so that the method of installation is concealed. Signs applied to masonry surfaces should be mechanically fastened to mortar joints only and not directly into brick or stone. Drilling to provide electrical service shall follow the same rule.
(3)
No sign (except flags) shall be suspended by chains or other devices that will allow the sign to swing due to wind action. Signs shall be anchored to minimize any lateral movement that would cause wear on the sign face or supporting members or connections.
(4)
All permanent signs and their supporting members shall be constructed of standardized sign materials.
(5)
Sign materials should be compatible with the design of the face of the facade where they are placed and should contribute to the legibility of the sign.
(6)
No combustible materials other than approved plastics shall be used in the construction of electric signs.
(7)
All signage within the jurisdiction of this chapter shall remain in a state of proper maintenance. Proper maintenance shall be the absence of loose materials (including peeling paint, paper or other material), the lack of excessive rust, the lack of excessive vibration or shaking, and the presence of the original structural integrity of the sign, its frame and other supports, its mounting, and all components thereof.
(8)
Every freestanding or on-building sign hereafter erected shall have marked in a conspicuous place thereon the date of erection, the manufacturer's name, the permit number, and the voltage of any electrical apparatus used in connection therewith.
(9)
The repainting, changing of parts, and preventive maintenance of signs which completely conform to the requirements of this chapter, and result in absolutely no change in the appearance of the sign from that originally approved, shall not be deemed alterations requiring a sign permit.
(10)
The owner, lessee, or manager of a sign, and the owner of the land on which the same is located, shall keep grass or weeds and other growth cut and debris and rubbish cleaned up and removed from the lot on which the sign is located.
(11)
Any signs which may be, or may hereafter become rotted, unsafe, or in a state which is not properly maintained shall be repaired or removed by the licensee or owner of the sign, or owner of the property upon which the sign stands upon notice of the Zoning Administrator.
§ 10-151 Nonconforming signs.
(1)
Nonconforming signs.
(a)
Signs (except off-premises advertising signs) existing as of the effective date of this chapter, which do not conform to the provisions of this chapter, such as brightness, scrolling, size, height, and location, shall be nonconforming signs.
(b)
Off-premises advertising signs existing as of the effective date of this chapter, which do not conform to the provisions of this chapter shall become nonconforming signs on January 1, 2018.
(2)
Continuation of a nonconforming sign.
(a)
Nonconforming signs may be maintained.
(b)
Nonconforming signs shall not be altered or moved to a new location without being brought into compliance with the requirements of this chapter. See Subsection (3)(a), below, for what would constitute an alteration of a sign.
(c)
Nonconforming signs shall be removed when the principal structure located on the premises undergoes a change of use, or shall be removed per Subsection (3), below.
(d)
Whenever there is a change in the sign user (excluding off-premises signs), sign owner, or owner of the property on which the sign is located, the new sign user, sign owner, or new property owner shall forthwith notify the Zoning Administrator of the change. No new sign permit is required unless there is modification of the sign face or sign structure. The sign will continue to be considered nonconforming.
(3)
Alteration and removal of nonconforming signs.
(a)
Alteration of nonconforming signs.
1.
For the purpose of this section, alteration of a sign is considered to be any change to the sign's supporting structure, including the sign frame.
2.
Altering a sign does not include maintaining the existing appearance of the sign; replacing the sign face or the supporting structure with similar materials; changing the colors; and messages; changing the sign copy or message; or changing the face of an off-premises advertising sign.
3.
A tenant sign which comprises part of a group development sign may be replaced to accommodate a new tenant sign without triggering the need to bring the entire group development sign, or any of its parts, into compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
Nonconforming signs shall be removed: upon losing their nonconforming status pursuant to § 10-152, Subsection (1)(a); or upon abandonment pursuant to § 10-152, Subsection (2), below.
§ 10-152 Removal where business no longer in operation.
(1)
A building, structure or premises shall be determined to be vacated based on the following criteria: (1) vacancy, (2) cessation of some or all utilities, or (3) lapse or termination of occupational license. Vacation of a building, structure or premises shall have the following effect:
(a)
At 90 days, nonconforming signs shall lose their nonconforming status.
(b)
At 90 days, the owner of the property shall be responsible for removing any commercial sign and/or sign structure associated with the business that is out of operation located on the property; unless the property owner is granted an extension under Subsection (d) below.
(c)
Signs addressing the sale or leasing of the facility in compliance with § 10-146 are permitted; however, conversion of an existing sign or sign structure to a sale or leasing sign, where permitted, shall not affect the time provisions of this section. In addition, the owner shall be responsible for restoring the facade of the building, structure or premises to its normal appearance.
(d)
An extension allowing vacant sign(s) and/or sign structure(s) to remain on the property for an additional six-month time period after the original 90 days have lapsed, may be granted under the following conditions:
1.
The property owner must submit an application with the appropriate fee and allow staff to inspect the vacated sign(s) and/or sign structure(s).
2.
Staff must review the application and sign to determine that the sign will not be a hazard, safety concern, or blight for the duration of the extended time period.
3.
Signs must be properly blanked out and contain no commercial message.
4.
If the sign has been damaged during the vacated period to the point it becomes a safety hazard or blight on the property, staff may have the structure removed.
5.
After the original six-month extension, one additional six-month extension may be approved by staff for up to one year upon submittal of a new application and fee. Any additional applications for an extension, beyond the first year, must be approved by the Plan Commission.
6.
Owners of nonconforming signs may also apply for an extension; however, the sign shall not thereafter be reestablished except in full compliance with this chapter.
(2)
Sign structures that have been left vacant, devoid of any message, display a message pertaining to a time, event or purpose that no longer applies, or where the permit holder no longer has any interest in the premises as owner or tenant, any of which for a continuous period of 90 days, shall be deemed abandoned and must be removed by the owner of the sign structure or the City shall proceed to remove such sign structure pursuant to the terms of this sign code if the owner has not been granted an extension.
(a)
Removal of abandoned painted wall signs shall either involve complete physical removal of the abandoned sign from the wall or repainting of the entire wall containing the abandoned sign, so that the said wall matches the building's other facades and the abandoned sign is no longer visible.
[Amended 1-15-2020 by Ord. No. 1980]
(3)
If the sign and/or sign structure(s) has not been removed, the City shall send written notification to the property owner of record and/or last known occupant, via certified mail, return receipt requested, indicating that the sign and/or sign structure must be removed or apply for and be granted an extension. If the sign and/or sign structure has not been removed within 30 days after the City sends notice, and an extension has not been granted, the City may have the sign and/or sign structure removed.
(4)
Any and all costs incurred by the City in the removal of a sign or sign structure pursuant to the provisions of this section, which authorized assessment of the cost, shall constitute a lien against the property upon which the sign or sign structure existed and shall be collected in the same manner as provided elsewhere in the regulations of the City of Shawano.
§ 10-153 Other definitions.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
ABANDONED SIGN
Any sign remaining in place which for a period of 90 days or more no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product, service, idea or commercial activity located on the site.
ADVERTISING
Any writing, painting, display, emblem, drawing, sign or other device designed, used or intended for display or any type of publicity for the purpose of making anything known or attracting attention to a place, product, goods, services, idea or statement.
BEACON/SEARCH BEACON
Any light with one or more beams directed into the atmosphere or directed at one or more points not on the same lot as the light source; also, any light with one or more beams that rotate or move.
BUILDING
Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.
BUILDING FRONTAGE
That building elevation that fronts on a public street.
BUSINESS/TENANT FRONTAGE
That portion of a building frontage occupied by a single tenant space having a public entrance within the building frontage. For businesses located on the interior of a building without building frontage, the building elevation providing customer access shall be considered the business frontage.
COMMERCIAL MESSAGE
Any sign wording, logo or other representation that, directly or indirectly, names, advertises or calls attention to a business product, service, idea or commercial activity.
COPY
Words, letters, numbers, figures, designs or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign.
ELEVATION (BUILDING)
The view of any building or other structure from any one of four sides regardless of the configuration or orientation of a building. No building shall be treated as having more than four building elevations. Each elevation will generally be identified as a north, south, east or west building elevation.
EXTERNAL ILLUMINATION
The lighting of an object from a light source located a distance from the object.
FACADE
See "elevation."
FUTURE TENANT SIGN
A temporary sign that identifies the names of future businesses that will occupy a site.
HEIGHT OF SIGN
The vertical distance from the base of the sign at average grade to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.
INFLATABLE DEVICE
An object that is inflated with air or gas.
LOT
Any piece or parcel of land or a portion of a subdivision, the boundaries of which have been established by some legal instrument of record that is recognized and intended as a unit for the purpose of transfer of ownership.
LUMINAIRE
A complete unit for the purpose of generating usable and somewhat controllable light that comprises one or more lamps, parts designed to distribute the light, parts used to position and protect the light source, and a means to connect the light source(s) to an electrical supply.
MAINTAIN
Maintaining the existing appearance of the sign; replacing the sign face or the supporting structure with identical materials, colors, and messages; changing the message of a marquee or community information sign; or changing the face of an off-premises advertising sign.
SIGN AREA
The entire face of a sign, including the extreme limits of writing, representation, emblem or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the background of the display but not including any supporting framework. See § 10-145(4).
SIGN FACE
The area or display surface used for the message.
THREE DIMENSIONAL SIGNS
Signs that have a depth or relief on their surface. Where a sign consists of one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture or statue-like trademarks), the sign area shall be measured as their maximum projection upon a vertical plane.
USE
Includes all purposes or activities for which the land or buildings are arranged, designed or intended, or for which land or buildings are occupied or maintained. A use may include multiple ownership, tenancy or affiliations and may include accessory, conditional and temporary uses.
§ 10-154 Fees.
Fees related to signage shall be determined by the current City fee schedule.