Slinger City Zoning Code
ARTICLE VI
Signs
[Amended by Ord. No. 12-01-2015; 12-3-2018 by Ord. No. 11-01-2018; 10-19-2020 by Ord. No. 09-01-2020; 6-20-2022 by Ord. No. 06-02-2022; 8-15-2022 by Ord. No. 08-01-2022; 1-15-2024 by Ord. No. 01-01-2024; 9-15-2025 by Ord. No. 09-04-2025]
§ 550-54 Purpose.
The purpose of this article shall be to:
Regulate the size, type, quantity, construction standards, maintenance and placement of signs situated within the boundaries of the Village of Slinger, Wisconsin.
Promote the public health, safety, welfare and comfort of the general public by:
Enabling the public to locate goods, services, activities, places and facilities without difficulty or confusion;
Allowing for adequate business identification, advertising and communication;
Protecting property values, public investment and overall community character by promoting an attractive, harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment free from excessive visual clutter of signs and preventing conditions which have undesirable impacts on surrounding properties;
Reducing distractions and obstructions from signs which could adversely impact pedestrian and/or traffic safety;
Managing potential hazards caused by signs projecting over or encroaching upon the public right-of-way; and
Preserving or enhancing the natural beauty and unique physical characteristics of the Village as a community in which to live and work by requiring new and replacement signage which is:
Aesthetically harmonious with the nearby buildings, surrounding neighborhood aesthetics and other signs in the area as to, for instance, but not necessarily limited to, materials, colors, scale, placement/location, landscaping, and manner/hours of illumination; and
Complementary to the Village's architectural character and thoughtful style of development.
§ 550-54.1 Scope of regulations.
Except as otherwise noted in this article, the regulations of this article shall govern all outdoor signs, sign structures, and sign devices with respect to quantity, location, safety, size, construction standards, erection, attachment, support, lighting, anchorage, maintenance, physical appearance and aesthetics for all areas of the Village.
§ 550-54.2 Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Actively marketed means (1) proactive measures are being taken to connect and engage with potential customers, which may include listing with a real estate agent, publishing advertisements in a newspaper or other print publications, or engaging in online advertising activities, such as posting on a website; and (2) these actions are repeated, updated, and modified regularly to continue to seek engagement with potential purchasers. The mere fact of placing a sign on a lot does not itself demonstrate that the property is being actively marketed.
Measurement of sign area calculated as the sum of the area within the smallest regular polygon that will encompass all elements of the actual sign face, including any writing, representation, emblem or any figure or similar character together with any material forming an integral part of the display or forming the backing surface or background on/against which the message or symbols are displayed.
For a sign painted on or applied to a building, the area shall be considered to include all lettering, wording and accompanying designs or symbols, together with any background of a different color than the natural color or finish material of the building.
The area of supporting framework (for example brackets, posts, etc.) shall not be included in the area if such framework is incidental to the display.
When a sign has two or more faces, the area of all faces shall be included in determining the area, except where two sign faces are placed back to back and are at no point more than two feet from each other. In this case, the sign area shall be taken as the area of either face, and if the faces are unequal, the larger shall determine the area.
A stationary or retractable structure that serves as a shelter over a door, window or building front.
Any lettering or imagery sewn, painted or printed on or attached to the visible fabric portion of an awning. Decorative awnings without imagery are not considered signs.
A sign intended to be hung either with or without a frame, and which possesses characters, letters, illustrations or ornamentations applied to paper, plastic or fabric of any kind.
The edge of the established ultimate street right-of-way.
Any sign that is attached to or part of an awning, canopy or other fabric, plastic or structural protective cover over a door, entrance, window or outdoor service area.
A sign or portion thereof designed to accommodate frequent message changes composed of characters, letters, or illustrations and that can be changed or rearranged manually without altering the face or surface of such sign. Also referred to as "reader boards."
A grouping of individual parcels, buildings and/or uses conceived, approved and developed as a unified whole (i.e., subdivision plat, condominium plat, mixed-use or multi-building PUD).
Signs with alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic informational content that can be changed or altered on a fixed display screen composed of electrically illuminated segments. Includes LED displays, electronic signs, LED video displays and electronic variable message signs.
The surface of the sign upon, against or through which the message of the sign is displayed.
Devices generally made of flexible materials, such as cloth, paper, or plastic and possessing characters, symbols, letters, or illustrations of any kind.
A sign whose illumination is not kept constant in intensity at all times when in use and/or which exhibits changes in light, color, direction, animation and word/text changes. Illuminated signs that indicate the date, time and temperature will not be considered flashing signs.
A sign that is attached to or part of a completely self-supporting structure other than a building. The supporting structure shall be set firmly in, upon or below the ground surface and shall not be attached to any building.
A government sign means any sign that is owned, operated, or required by a governmental entity having jurisdiction, including, but not limited to, the signs designated in this chapter as government signs, and signs that are required by applicable laws. Such signs include signs on municipally-owned vehicles, official traffic, fire and police signs, signals, devices, and markings of the State of Wisconsin and the Village or other public authorities, or posted notices required by law.
The distance between the existing preconstruction grade at the base of the sign and the highest point on the sign or supporting structure.
A sign in which an artificial source of light is used in connection with the display of such sign.
An acronym for light emitting diode. Light emitting diodes glow when voltage is applied to them.
A designated parcel, tract or area of land established by plat, subdivision or as otherwise permitted by law.
A line of record bounding a lot which divides one lot from another lot or from a public or private street or any other public space.
The tenant within a multi-tenant building that occupies the greatest square footage of that building.
A permanent rooflike structure extending from part of the wall of a building but not supported by the ground, and constructed of durable material such as metal or glass.
A sign attached to, painted on, or supported by a marquee.
A sign existing at the effective date of the ordinance from which this article is derived which does not conform to the terms of this article.
Any sign that calls or directs attention to goods, products, facilities or services not located on the premises where the sign is located, or a sign that identifies or directs persons to a different location from where the sign is located or a sign that identifies an occupant or business that is not situated on the same lot as the sign.
The regulated minimum distance of a sign structure from a side or rear lot line.
A variety of flags usually tapering to a point or swallowtail or a long rectangle.
A sign affixed or attached directly to the exterior wall of a building or structure and extending more than 10 inches from the exterior wall of the building or structure.
A sign or billboard which is located or projects above the lowest point of the eaves or the top of the parapet wall of any building, or which is painted on or fastened to a roof.
A self-supporting A-shaped freestanding temporary sign with only two visible sides that contain commercial speech.
The regulated minimum horizontal distance between the base setback line and any sign structure on a lot.
Any display of lettering, logos, colors, lights, illuminated neon tubes and related supporting structures, equipment or devices visible to persons or the public from outside of a building or premises, which display either conveys a message to persons or to the public, or intends to advertise, direct, invite, announce or draw attention to goods, products, services, facilities, opinions, activities, places, persons, property interest or business.
The Village Planner/Zoning Administrator and/or the Building Inspector.
Any sign which is intended to be and is so constructed as to be lasting and enduring, remaining unchanged in character, condition (beyond normal wear) and position, and in some permanent manner affixed to the ground, wall, or building.
A sign constructed of cloth, canvas, wood, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, plastic or other light materials, with or without frames, and any type of sign not permanently attached to the ground, wall, or building which is permitted for display for a limited period of time only, a maximum of 30 days consecutive or 90 days total in a one-calendar-year period.
A public or private right-of-way for pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
A sign or billboard affixed or attached directly to the exterior wall of a building and extending 10 inches or less from the exterior wall of the building or structure.
A sign with wheels attached to aid in its portability.
A sign attached to, placed upon or painted on the interior of a window or door of a building that is intended for viewing from the exterior of such building.
§ 550-55 Authority.
It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, repair, alter, relocate, display or possess any sign, sign structure or sign device as defined in this article without first obtaining a sign permit from the Village and making payment of the required fees. All signs requiring electricity shall, in addition, be subject to the provisions of the electrical and building codes and any additional permit fees as may be required thereunder.
§ 550-55.1 Application for permit.
Application for a sign permit shall be made on forms provided by the Village, and shall contain or have attached thereto the following information:
Name, address and telephone number of the applicant, and the location of building, structure or lot to which or upon which the sign is to be attached, erected or displayed.
Name of person, firm, corporation or association intending to construct/place/display the sign.
Written consent of the owner of the building, structure or land to which or upon which the sign is to be affixed, installed or displayed.
A full color scale drawing of such sign indicating the dimensions, materials to be used, manner of illumination, if any, and the method of construction, attachment or display.
A scale drawing indicating the proposed location and position of such sign in relation to nearby buildings or structures, lot lines, public right-of-way and any easements.
Sign permit applications shall be filed with the Sign Code Administrator (SCA), who shall review the application for its completeness and accuracy and approve, approve with conditions or deny, in writing, the application within 30 days of receipt from the applicant unless the time is extended by written agreement with the applicant or the application requires Planning Commission approval. A sign permit shall become null and void if work authorized under the permit has not been substantially completed within 12 months of the date of issuance.
§ 550-55.2 Issuance of permits.
It shall be the duty of the Sign Code Administrator (SCA), upon the filing of an application for a sign permit, to examine such plans and specifications and other data to determine compliance with the requirements of this article and all other regulations of the Village.
Following examination of the sign permit application, the SCA shall take one of the following actions:
If the proposed sign is not in compliance with the requirements of this article and all other regulations of the Village, the SCA shall deny such permit and state the specific reasons for the denial.
If the proposed sign complies with all dimensional Article requirements, the SCA shall consider the purpose, appearance, location, quantity, lighting, height, size and impact of the sign relative to the scenic beauty of the vicinity and to the purpose of this article as set forth in § 550-54 above. If the SCA feels, on the basis of the considerations in this section, that there is a question as to whether or not the proposed sign is in accordance with the purpose of this article, the applicants request shall be referred to the Planning Commission for consideration. Following its review, the Planning Commission shall approve, approve with conditions or modifications, or deny the sign permit application.
If the SCA determines that the sign is in compliance with the purpose of this article and all other regulations of the Village, the sign permit may be issued.
Issuance of a permit as provided herein shall not be deemed an assumption of liability by the Village.
§ 550-55.3 Appeals.
The Planning Commission may, in its judgment, waive or modify the provisions of this article where it would further the public interest and uphold the purpose of this article as set forth in § 550-54. Such waiver or modification may be based on, for instance and among other things possibly, site-specific hardships and/or anomalies such as topographic or architectural aberrations, traffic safety, accessibility, visual encumbrances and/or limitations. Note: The Board of Zoning Appeals shall not have authority or jurisdiction over the provisions of Chapter 550, Zoning, Article VI, Signs.
§ 550-55.4 Fees.
The applicant shall pay an application fee for each individual sign in accordance with the Village's current schedule of "Permits, Licenses, Administrative, Public Works, and Impact Fees Costs," as may be amended from time to time by Village Board Resolution.
§ 550-55.5 Revocation of permits.
The SCA is authorized and empowered to revoke any sign permit upon determination that the sign authorized by the permit has been constructed or is being maintained in violation of the permit or the provisions of this article.
§ 550-55.6 Violations and penalties.
Any person, firm, company or corporation who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects or refuses to comply with or who resists the enforcement of any of the provisions of this article shall be subject to a forfeiture of not less than $50 nor more than $500 for each offense, together with the costs of the action. Each day that a violation exists shall constitute a separate violation and be punishable as such.
§ 550-56 Prohibited signs.
The following types of signs are prohibited in the Village:
Roof signs.
Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and/or trailers which are parked on a public right-of-way, public property or private property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way where the apparent primary use/purpose of the vehicle or trailer is to display signage. This provision is not intended to prohibit signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and trailers, such as lettering on motor vehicles for instance, where the sign is incidental to the primary transportation related use of the vehicle or trailer.
Signs that are attached or otherwise affixed to trees or other living vegetation.
Flashing or rotating signs, signs containing moving parts and signs containing reflective elements that sparkle or twinkle in the sunlight are not permitted except as may otherwise be provided for elsewhere in this article. Signs indicating the current time and/or temperature may be permitted provided they meet all other provisions of this article and are subject to approval of the Village Planning Commission.
A-frame, sandwich board, sidewalk, or curb signs, except as provided for in § 550-61D(9) below.
Banners, pennants, streamers, balloons and other gas-filled figures, except as a temporary sign, reference § 550-57A(10), A(11), and B below.
Off-premises signs except Village approved temporary off-premises signs used to identify businesses whose accessibility and/or visibility is being adversely affected during road, utility or similar construction.
Any sign advertising or identifying a business or organization that is either defunct or no longer located on the premises where the sign is located.
Portable and wheeled signs except as may otherwise be provided for in this article.
Signs or other advertising painted directly on building walls or fences unless specifically approved by the Planning Commission.
Inflatable signs and tethered balloons except as may be permitted as temporary signs, reference § 550-57A(10), A(11), and B below.
Signs erected at or near the intersection of any streets, driveways or railroad crossings in such manner as to obstruct free and clear vision by motorists or pedestrians of oncoming traffic; or at any location where, by reason of the position, shape or color, it may interfere with, obstruct the view of, imitate or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device.
§ 550-57 Exemptions.
The following outdoor signs, sign structures or devices may be exempted from the permit process outlined in §§ 550-51.1 through 550-55.6 above but may still be required to comply with the illumination, landscaping and location provisions of this article where applicable:
One wall sign not to exceed six square feet in size maintained by the owner or occupant of any unit in residentially occupied building containing three or fewer residential dwelling units.
(Reserved)
Memorial signs or tablets recording names of buildings and date of erection, when cut into any masonry surface of the building or when constructed of metal or other noncombustible materials and permanently affixed to the building. Grave markers, statuary or other similarly constructed remembrances of persons or events that are noncommercial in nature are also exempted.
Traffic signs, legal notices, railroad crossing signs, danger and such temporary emergency or non-advertising signs as may be erected for the public safety.
Non-illuminated signs painted on canopies, awnings and marquees. Such signs shall not exceed an aggregate gross surface area of 30% of the visible surface area of the awning, canopy or marquee to which the painted image is being affixed. Individual lettering shall not exceed six inches in height.
One freestanding sign up to 15 square feet in area and setback at least 10 feet from the edge of the public right-of-way on parcels where an active and permitted agricultural use is present on the premises and the property is zoned A-1 Agricultural Transition District.
Flags of any content. These flags may be up to 60 square feet in area and may be displayed from freestanding flagpoles not exceeding 40 feet in height or from flagpoles attached to a permitted structure on the premises, provided a flag attached to a permitted structure may not extend beyond the private property boundary or above the tallest point on the structure it's attached to, and a freestanding flagpole may not be located closer to a lot line than the overall height of the pole itself. The number of flags allowed in any zoning district is limited to three.
Special decorative "Village of Slinger" and/or directional or promotional displays or signs in public right-of-way provided such signs are owned, installed and maintained by the Village.
Signs which are located within the interior of any building and which are not visible from the exterior of the building.
Temporary signs provided that no temporary sign shall be located within public road right-of- way, or attached to utility poles, meter posts, or trees in or along any street right-of-way within the Village; and no temporary sign shall be located on any building, wall, fence, or other property, of another person without the consent of the owner of such property. The maximum time limit for such temporary signs shall not exceed 30 consecutive or 90 cumulative days in a one-year period. The number of temporary signs allowed in each zoning district are as follows: two signs with no more than 12 square feet total area or six square feet for any individual sign. Such signs shall not be illuminated.
In the case of residentially zoned or residentially used properties being actively marketed for sale or lease, the duration for display may be extended to include the period that begins when the property becomes actively marketed for sale or lease and ends 14 days after the property has been sold or leased or when the property ends being actively marketed, whichever is earlier.
(Reserved)
(Reserved)
(Reserved)
Government signs. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent the erection, construction, alteration, placement, maintenance, or location of government signs, devices and markings of the state, Village or other governmental authority, or the posting of notices required by law.
Warning signs. Warning signs which describe a hazardous condition which may exist on a premises, not more than three square feet in area and located a minimum of 10 feet from any property line, or placed on the front facade of a building or structure if the sign is directly applicable to the building or structure. Such signs are deemed to be tantamount to government signs.
Property address signs. Property address numbers assigned by the Village or of a design approved by the Building Inspector that are required to be placed on every principal structure or as designated by the Village in clear view from the public right-of-way on which the address is assignated. Such signs are deemed to be tantamount to government signs.
Traffic control signs. Traffic control signs on private property, such as "Stop," "Yield," and similar signs, that serve the same purpose on private property as government signs serve on public property. Traffic control signs include directional signs giving directions to areas such as drive-through or drive-up lanes, visitor or employee parking, or shipping and loading zones. Such signs are deemed to be tantamount to government signs.
The following temporary signs are exempt from §§ 550-55.1 through 550-55.6 above subject to the following conditions:
(Reserved)
During the period of time that a building project is actively underway on a parcel of land attendant to a current, approved building permit, the following temporary sign display(s) may be permitted per property as follows and in addition to any/all other signs otherwise permitted by this section:
Rm-1, Rm-2, B-2, B-3, I-1, M-1, M-2, and P-1: Up to one sign per street frontage (or in the case of parcels with frontage on two roadways which may be allowed up to two such signs, one facing each roadway) not to exceed 32 square feet in area, seven feet in height and setback not less than 10 feet from all lot lines. Such signs shall not be illuminated.
R-1 through R-6, Rd-1, Mh-1, VC-D, and A-1): Up to one sign per street frontage (or in the case of parcels with frontage on two roadways which may be allowed up to two such signs, one facing each roadway) not to exceed 24 square feet in area, seven feet in height and setback not less than 10 feet from all lot lines. Such signs shall not be illuminated.
Conflict of laws. In the event that Wisconsin Statutes § 12.04 or other applicable laws would permit a sign that is larger than the size limitations described in this section, such sign, regardless of sign content, is allowed only for the period described in Wisconsin Statutes § 12.04 or other applicable laws. In the event the requirements of this Chapter 550, Article VI are preempted by governmental authorities having jurisdiction, to the extent of the preemption and to no further extent, this chapter shall not apply.
§ 550-58 Illumination standards.
In addition to complying with the provisions of this article, all signs for which electrical wiring and connections are to be used shall be subject to the applicable provisions of the Village of Slinger Electrical Code. No person may erect a sign with exposed electrical cords and wires.
The use of unshielded lighting whereby the source of illumination is visible to the surrounding view, including for instance exposed incandescent light bulbs hung or strung on poles, wires or any other type of support and intended to illuminate a sign or other advertising device may be required, at the discretion of the SCA, to be reviewed and approved by the Village Planning Commission upon finding that such lighting will not be a nuisance upon surrounding properties or the Village as a whole, prior to placement or use thereof.
Illuminated signs may not cause a nuisance or material adverse impact upon surrounding properties or the Village as a whole with respect to such matters as, for instance but not necessarily limited to, light glare, intensity, blinking, flashing, scrolling, and similar.
All sign lighting shall be so designed, located, shielded or hooded as to prevent direct view of the light source, the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent roadways, surrounding properties, or into the sky.
§ 550-59 Landscaping standards.
Where any sign is proposed to be externally illuminated using ground mounted fixtures (i.e., floodlight), landscape plantings shall be installed in such manner as will shield the light source from the surrounding view. Landscape plantings shall be of the type as will ensure effective year- round screening.
§ 550-60 Location standards.
In any zoning district, no sign or sign supporting structure shall be setback/offset less than 10 feet from any abutting lot line, right-of-way or driveway except in the VC-D Village Center-Downtown District where the minimum freestanding sign/sign structure setback shall be five feet.
Placement of all signs shall be subject to the vision clearance triangle setback regulations as set forth in the Village of Slinger Zoning Code.
On properties that are not zoned or used for residential purposes, no sign shall be located closer than 30 feet to an abutting residentially zoned or used property without prior review and approval of the Planning Commission.
§ 550-61 Permitted permanent signs.
On properties zoned Rd-1, Rm-1, Rm-2, VC-D, or Mh-1 and where the permitted/approved principal use includes more than four residential dwelling units on a single parcel containing 22,000 square feet or less in land area, the following sign(s) may be permitted:
Number. One freestanding sign display per parcel and one wall mounted building sign display for each building, except that where a parcel or building abuts two or more streets, one freestanding sign and one wall mounted building sign may be allowed for each abutting street frontage.
Location. Freestanding signs shall not be located closer than 10 feet to any property line or driveway. No permanent freestanding sign shall be placed closer than 50 feet to another permanent freestanding sign on any single property measured as the crow fly's between the nearest points on the sign or sign structure of the two freestanding permanent signs.
Height. Freestanding signs shall not exceed seven feet in height.
Exceptions/qualifications. (And reference Table 1 attached.)[1]
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 60 right-of- way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 60 right-of-way:
The freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 40 square feet and the height may be increased to up to 15 feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 40 square feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the east/west travel lanes of Wisconsin Highway 60. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the Wisconsin Highway 60 right-of-way. All signs located along the Wisconsin Highway 60 right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State and/or Arthur Road right-of-way:
The freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 32 square feet and the height may be increased to 15 feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 32 square feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the travel lanes of State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. Any such oversize/overheight sign must be located between the principal building and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. All signs located along the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located in the VC-D Downtown Village Center District:
The freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 20 square feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 32 square feet. Signs of this area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the public right-of-way. Any such oversize sign must be located between the principal building and the public right-of-way. The Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets and setbacks greater than 10.5 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
[1]
Editor's Note: Table 1, Signs and Zoning Districts, is included as an attachment to this chapter.
On properties zoned Rd-1, Rm-1, Rm-2, VC-D, or Mh-1 and where the permitted/approved principal use includes more than four residential dwelling units on a single parcel containing more than 22,000 square feet in land area, the following sign(s) may be permitted:
Number. One freestanding sign display per parcel and one wall-mounted building sign display for each building, except that where a parcel or building abuts two or more streets, one freestanding sign and one wall-mounted building sign may be allowed for each abutting street frontage.
Location. Freestanding signs shall not be located closer than 10 feet to any property line or driveway. No permanent freestanding sign shall be placed closer than 50 feet to another permanent freestanding sign on any single property measured as the crow fly's between the nearest points on the sign or sign structure of the two freestanding permanent signs.
Height. Freestanding signs shall not exceed 10 feet in height.
Exceptions/qualifications. (And reference Table 1 attached.)
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 60 right-of-way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 60 right-of-way, the freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 60 square feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 60 square feet as well. The sign height may be increased to 15 feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the east/west bound travel lanes of Wisconsin Highway 60. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the Wisconsin Highway 60 right-of-way. All signs located along the Wisconsin Highway 60 right- of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way, the freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 40 square feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 40 square feet as well. The sign height may be increased to 15 feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the travel lanes of State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. All signs located along the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located in the VC-D Downtown Village Center District: The freestanding sign area may not exceed 32 square feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 32 square feet. Signs of this area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the public right-of-way. Any such oversize sign must be located between the principal building and the public right-of-way. The Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets and setbacks greater than 10.5 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Each contiguous project/development area containing more than one acre in underlying land area may be permitted the following freestanding signs:
Number. There shall not be more than one such sign for each point of vehicular access into the project/development area from the public road right-of-way.
Area. Such signs shall not exceed 40 square feet in area.
Location. Such signs shall not be located closer than 10 feet to any property line or driveway.
Height. Such signs shall not exceed 10 feet in height.
Exceptions/qualifications. (And reference Table 1 attached.)[2]
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 60 right-of-way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 60 right-of-way, the freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 60 square feet and the height may be increased to 20 feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the east/west bound travel lanes of Wisconsin Highway 60. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the Wisconsin Highway 60 right-of-way. All signs located along the Wisconsin Highway 60 right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location,. . . and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way, the freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 50 square feet and the height may be increased up to 12 feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the travel lanes of State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. All signs located along the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located in the VC-D Downtown Village Center District: The freestanding sign area may not exceed 32 square feet. Signs of this area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the public right-of-way. Any such oversize sign must be located between the principal building and the public right-of-way. The Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets and setbacks greater than 10.5 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
[2]
Editor's Note: Table 1, Signs and Zoning Districts, is included as an attachment to this chapter.
On properties zoned VC-D, B-2, B-3, I-1, M-1, M-2, B&LM-1, and P-1 and containing permitted and approved nonresidential use(s) and building(s), the following signs are permitted:
Wall signs.
Number. There shall be no more than one wall sign for each principal building except for the case of buildings occupied by multiple tenants which are more specifically regulated in § 550-61D(9) below, and except for the case of buildings that front two or more streets in which case one wall sign may be permitted for each facade facing a street.
Area. The area of a wall sign shall not exceed 40 square feet (not to exceed 32 square feet or 75% of the building occupant's/tenant's lineal facade frontage, whichever is less, for properties zoned VC-D).
Secondary entrance wall sign. Businesses with a secondary customer entrance (i.e. a rear or side entrance) may display a second wall sign on the wall containing the secondary entrance.
Maximum number per lot: Only one secondary entrance wall sign may be allowed for each business with a secondary entrance.
Maximum permitted area per sign: One-half the area of the primary allowed wall sign provided that the secondary entrance abuts a parking lot or pedestrian way. If the secondary entrance abuts a service drive or loading area only, the sign shall not exceed eight square feet in area.
Location. A wall sign may be located on the outermost wall of any principal building but shall not project more than 10 inches from the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
Height. A wall sign shall not project higher than the top of the wall or parapet to which the sign is to be affixed.
Freestanding ground signs.
Number. There shall not be more than one freestanding ground/monument type sign for each principal building except where a building is situated on a lot that abuts two or more streets, in which case one freestanding sign may be allowed for each abutting street frontage.
Area. The area of a ground sign shall not exceed 50 square feet (not to exceed 32 square feet for properties zoned VC-D).
Location. A ground sign may not be located closer than 10 feet to any property line, or driveway, except in the VC-D District where the minimum required setback shall be five feet. No freestanding ground signs shall be placed closer than 50 feet to another freestanding sign on any single property measured as the crow fly's between the nearest points on the sign or sign structure of the two freestanding permanent signs.
Height. A ground sign shall not exceed 15 feet in height.
Exceptions/qualifications to the above. (And reference Table 1 attached.)[3]
Where such property is located within 500 feet of the Interstate Highway 41 right-of-way (but excluding any properties that are on the side 'other' side of American Eagle Drive such that the property does not directly abut the Highway 41 right-of-way) and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the US I-41 right-of-way, the freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 500 square feet and the sign height may be increased to up to 75 feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 500 square feet as well. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the north/south bound travel lanes of US I-41. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the US I-41 right-of-way. All signs located along the US I-41 right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 60 right-of-way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 60 right-of-way, the freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 100 square feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 80 square feet as well. The sign height may be increased to 30 feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the east/west bound travel lanes of Wisconsin Highway 60. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the Wisconsin Highway 60 right-of-way. All signs located along the Wisconsin Highway 60 right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located within 200 feet of the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way and has no single-family residential zoned or used property located between it and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way, the freestanding sign area may be increased to up to 60 square feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 50 square feet as well. The sign height may be increased to 20 feet. Signs of this height and area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area and height necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the travel lanes of State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. Any such oversize/overheight freestanding sign must be located between the principal building and the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street and/or Arthur Road right-of-way. All signs located along the State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street State Highway 175/E and West Washington Street right-of-way shall comply with any applicable WisDOT regulations as to size, height, location, and the SCA and/or Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets greater than 10 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
Where such property is located in the VC-D Downtown Village Center District: The freestanding sign area may not exceed 32 square feet. The building mounted sign area may be increased to up to 32 square feet. Signs of this area must first be reviewed and approved by the SCA and/or the Village Planning Commission, which is guided to approve only the maximum area necessary as will ensure visibility/readability of such sign from the public right-of-way. Any such oversize sign must be located between the principal building and the public right-of-way. The Village Planning Commission may establish lot line offsets and setbacks greater than 10.5 feet if deemed necessary upon their review.
[3]
Editor's Note: Table 1, Signs and Zoning Districts, is included as an attachment to this chapter.
Projecting signs.
Number. There shall not be more than one projecting sign for each principal building or individual tenant occupant therein.
Area. The area of a projecting sign shall not exceed 16 square feet.
Location. A projecting sign shall not extend more than five feet over the lot line and in no case shall extend to within five feet of the back of curb. Projecting signs shall be spaced a minimum of 25 feet apart. Projecting signs shall not be located within 25 feet of any freestanding ground sign.
Height. The minimum clearance to grade beneath the sign shall be 10 feet as measured from the lowest part of the sign. Projecting signs shall not extend higher than the top of the wall.
Awning, canopy and marquee signs.
Number. Not more than one awning, canopy or marquee sign exceeding an aggregate gross surface area of four square feet shall be permitted for each principal building or individual tenant occupant therein.
Area. Awning, canopy and marquee signs which are four square feet or less in aggregate gross surface area are exempt from the provisions of §§ 550-55.2 through 550-55.6 above. The gross surface area of an awning, canopy or marquee sign shall not exceed 50% of the surface area to which such sign is to be affixed or 30 square feet in area, whichever is less.
Height. The minimum clearance to grade beneath the awning, canopy or marquee shall be eight feet measured from the lowest part of the awning, canopy or marquee.
No awning, canopy or marquee shall extend closer than two feet to the back of curb.
The roofs of all awnings, canopies and marquees shall be used for no other purpose than to form and constitute a roof. The roofs of all awnings, canopies and marquees shall not drain directly onto the public right-of-way.
Awnings, canopies and marquees shall not interfere with street trees and/or traffic signs and signals.
Translucent and/or internally lit plastic awnings, canopies or marquees are not permitted.
Window signs.
Each building or individual tenant occupant space therein shall be allowed to display window signage not exceeding 50% (not exceeding 25% for properties zoned VC-D) of the glass area of the window upon which the sign is displayed.
During business hours, each building or individual tenant occupant space therein shall be allowed to display on each public street that it fronts, one neon or LED illuminated sign not exceeding four square feet in area or 40% of the window area, whichever is less. Such signs shall emit a steady light. Blinking, flashing, scrolling, strobe or other light animation shall not be allowed.
If the window signage is applied directly to windows, it must be professionally designed and of a permanent material so as not to peel, chip, crack, smudge or rub off easily.
Window signs shall be laid out as to maximize sight lines into the building for pedestrian and public safety purposes.
Special conditions. All signs on a lot shall exhibit uniformity in design, colors, size, materials, lighting, etc., and shall be so located as will prevent visual distraction and cluttered appearance among signs.
Changeable copy and electronic message signs. Changeable copy and electronic message signs shall only be allowed with prior Planning Commission approval. In reviewing the permit request the Planning Commission may approve or deny any application based upon, but not necessarily limited to, architectural design, size, potential interference with surrounding development, area, shape, height, manner or intensity of lighting, location, pedestrian and vehicular traffic safety.
Sandwich board signs.
Sandwich board signs are self-supporting, A-shaped, freestanding temporary signs with only two visible sides that contain signage.
The maximum area shall be eight square feet per side of sign with the maximum height being 48 inches.
Only one sandwich board sign per building or per tenant occupant space therein shall be permitted. Sandwich board signs shall not be placed more than 10 feet from the front primary entrance of the building or tenant occupant space unless a staff waiver is granted during permit review due to extenuating circumstances.
Sandwich board signs shall not be placed so as to cause the width of any public walkway to be reduced below four feet in width, nor shall they be erected or maintained in a manner that prevents free ingress or egress from any door, window or fire escape.
A no-fee sandwich board sign permit is required prior to the installation or placement of the sign. If the sign is to be located within the public right-of-way, business owners shall sign a disclaimer that holds harmless and indemnifies the Village from any liability for use of said public right-of-way.
A sketch including dimensions, materials and location of the sandwich board sign must be attached to the permit application. The permit application must be approved and signed by the SCA prior to display of a sandwich board sign. If a sign is displayed prior to obtaining a sandwich board sign permit, application may be denied. Replacement of an approved sandwich board sign may require a new permit.
Sandwich board signs shall not be illuminated, nor shall they contain moving parts or have balloons, streamers, pennants, or similar adornment attached to them.
Attaching or securing sandwich board signs to structures, poles, objects, signs, etc., by means of chains, cords, rope, wire, cable, etc., is prohibited.
Sandwich board signs shall be removed from public sidewalk if there is any snow accumulation (signs may not be displayed again until such snow is removed), except those located on private property. Signs shall only be displayed during business operating hours.
Sandwich board signs placed in violation of this section may result in immediate removal of the sign by the Village and the temporary sign permit privileges for any violating business may be denied for a period of time to be determined by the Planning Commission.
Sandwich board signs within the public right-of-way but which present an unreasonable impediment to visibility, ingress or egress may be moved or removed by the Village as may be necessary to maintain the public health, safety and welfare and for municipal purposes (i.e., code enforcement, snow removal, traffic issues, public safety, maintenance, etc.).
Multiple-tenant signs. Nonresidential multiple-tenant buildings shall be permitted one wall sign per tenant not exceeding 30 square feet in area or 75% of the tenant's lineal facade frontage, whichever is less. The multiple tenants may also share the sign space on the permitted freestanding sign(s). Major tenants may be allowed a larger wall sign subject to Planning Commission approval.
Master sign plan approval. All new multiple-tenant buildings, mixed use developments and/or Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) are required to develop a master sign plan for that building/development depicting the design, dimensions, location, materials, content, color scheme, type of illumination, if any, method of construction and manor of attachment for all signs planned to be installed on the building and property (based upon anticipated full occupancy). Such plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the Planning Commission prior to the issuance of any sign permits in that building/development.
Distance between signs. Distance between signs on an individual parcel shall generally be measured in the shortest straight line, as the crow would fly, between two signs.
All building mounted signs will be evaluated by the SCA for scale and design suitability within the architectural elevation they are being affixed to. If the SCA determines that the building mounted sign is detrimental to the architectural style, elements or character of the building, the sign permit application shall be elevated to the Planning Commission for review and possible approval.
§ 550-62 Existing signs.
Existing signs which become nonconforming upon adoption of this ordinance shall not be reconstructed, remodeled, relocated or changed in size unless such action will make the sign conforming in all respects with this article. Note: Normal maintenance and/or simple change of sign face or copy content shall not necessarily trigger the requirement for full conformance with the current requirements of the sign code.
A nonconforming sign or sign structure which is destroyed or substantially damaged may be restored only after the owner has shown that the damage did not exceed 50% of the appraised value of the sign. If such sign or sign structure is destroyed or damaged to an extent exceeding 50% of the appraised sign value, it shall be removed and shall not be reconstructed or replaced unless such action makes the sign and sign structure conforming, in all respects, to this article. If replacement or restoration of a damaged sign is permitted but not completed within three months of the date damage occurred, such sign shall be removed timely upon notice from the Village or replaced in a manner as will conform with all specifications of this article.
At any such time as the owner of any building or lot, on which a nonconforming sign is located, requests Planning Commission approval for any change to the use, site plan, building/architecture, or lot configuration, the Planning Commission may require that any nonconforming sign(s) located upon such property be removed or made to conform with this article as a condition of building, site, architecture or use approval.
§ 550-63 Design, construction and erection standards.
Structure design.
All signs shall be constructed, erected and maintained to safely withstand wind and live load pressure as specified by Wisconsin State Statutes and applicable building and administrative code.
The design, construction and erection of all signs shall be by a competent professional in the sign design and construction industry.
Wall signs attached to exterior building walls shall be anchored or attached in such a manner as will ensure stability and safety.
Signs attached to buildings shall not cover, conflict or interfere with the architectural features of the building facade(s).
Aesthetic design. The design of all signs shall fulfill the purpose cited in § 550-54 above. Those signs located in the VC-D zoning district specifically, shall reflect the historical character and qualities of the immediately surrounding architecture and neighborhood ambiance respectively. (References "Village of Slinger Downtown Vision & Strategy.")[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: The referenced document is on file in the Village offices.
§ 550-64 Maintenance and removal of signs.
The Village may cause any sign, sign structure or sign device that is, by the Village's professional judgement, an immediate peril to persons or property, to be summarily removed without notice.
Appearance requirements.
All signs as defined and regulated by this article are required to be properly maintained by the sign owner as to the appearance of all parts and supports of their sign as directed by the Village.
Removal of certain signs.
Any sign now or hereafter existing which no longer advertises a bona fide business, product, or service, or which is dilapidated, out of repair, unsafe, insecure or has been constructed, erected or maintained in violation of the provisions of this article, shall be taken down and removed by the owner, agent or person having the beneficial use of the building or land upon which such sign may be found. If within 10 days after written notification from the Village the sign owner fails to comply with such notice the Village may remove such sign. Any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building or land to which such sign is attached. If such costs and expenses are not paid within 30 days from the date of billing, then the costs and expenses incurred for such removal shall be assessed against the real estate upon which such sign is located and collected as other taxes are collected on such real estate.
Any sign that is constructed without proper approval and permit shall either be removed or issued a proper permit within five days of the owner receiving notice from the Village. If the owner of such sign is not issued a proper permit or fails to remove such sign, the Village may remove, or contract for the removal of, such sign. Any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building or land to which such sign is attached. If such cost and expenses are not paid within 10 days from the date of billing, then the costs and expenses incurred for such removal shall be assessed against the real estate upon which such sign is located and collected as other taxes are collected on such real estate.
If the owner of an illegal sign cannot be ascertained by the Village, then notice as indicated in Subsection B(1) above of this section shall be given to the owner of the real estate upon which the sign is located. If the owner of the real estate is not issued a proper permit or does not remove the sign within 10 days then the Village may remove, or contract for the removal of, such sign. Any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building or land to which such sign is attached. If such costs and expenses are not paid within 10 days from the date of billing, then the costs and expenses incurred for such removal shall be assessed against the real estate upon which such sign is located and collected as other taxes are collected on such real estate.
The cost of removing or relocating any signs located in the road right-of-way at such time as the Village may need the right-of-way cleared of such sign(s) for any public purpose whatsoever, shall be paid by the sign owner.
§ 550-65 Severability.
If any section, clause, provision or portion of this article is adjudged unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this article shall not be affected thereby. If an application of this article to a particular sign or structure is adjudged unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such judgment shall not be applicable to any other sign or structure not specifically included in such judgment.