The purpose of this Article is to establish minimum standards to safeguard life and property and promote public welfare and community aesthetics by regulating the appearance, construction, location and maintenance of all signs, awnings, canopies and billboards. The provisions herein contained shall be binding alike upon every owner of a building, every tenant and every person in charge or responsible for or who causes the construction, repair, relocation or alteration of any outdoor sign and other advertising structures in the City of Stanley; painting, posting and general maintenance are excepted. Sign content is expressly not regulated by this Article.

1. The following definitions are used in this Article (Note: Not all types of signs defined herein are permitted under this Article):
   1. Abandoned Sign. A sign which no longer correctly advertises a bona fide business, owner, landlord/tenant, product or activity conducted, or product available on the premises where the sign is displayed or elsewhere.
   2. Animated Sign. Any sign or part of a sign which changes physical position by movement or rotation, or gives the illusion of such change of physical position.
   3. Area of Copy. The entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles which encloses the extreme limits of an advertising message, announcement, or decoration.
   4. Area of Sign. The area is the perimeter which forms the outside shape, but excluding the necessary supports or uprights on which the sign may be placed unless they are designed as part of the sign. If the sign consists of more than one section or module, all areas will be totaled. The area of an irregularly shaped sign shall be computed using the actual sign face surface. The area of the irregularly shaped sign shall be the entire area within a single continuous rectilinear perimeter of not more than eight (8) straight lines.
   5. Awning. A movable hood or cover which projects from the wall of the building, which can be retracted, folded or collapsed against the face of a supporting structure. For purposes of this Article, an "awning sign" is any awning. Decorative awnings without lettering or imagery are not considered signs.
   6. Banner. A banner sign is generally constructed of a flexible non-rigid material (i.e. canvas, cloth, plastic, etc.) upon which goods, events or advertising has been placed, mounted to a pole or a building by a permanent frame at one or more edges. National flags, state or municipal flags, or the official flag of any institution or business shall not be considered banners.
   7. Billboard. A flat surface, as of a panel, wall or fence on which signs are posted advertising goods, products, facilities, or services not necessarily on the premises where the sign is located or directs persons to a different location from where the sign is located.
   8. Blanketing. The unreasonable obstruction of view of a sign caused by the placement of another sign.
   9. Building Front. The horizontal, linear dimension of that side of a building which faces a street, a parking area, a mall, or other circulation area open to the general public; and having either a main window display of the enterprise or a public entrance to the building. (In industrial districts a building side with an entrance open to industrial employees also shall qualify as a building front.)
   10. Bulletin Board. A sign used for the purpose of notification to the public of an event or occurrence of public interest, such as a church service, political rally, civic meeting or other similar event.
   11. Canopy. Any structure of canvas, other fabric, plastic, metal or wood or other material, which is permanently attached to any exterior building wall in any manner, intended to shield any wall, window, door, sidewalk or roadway from sun, rain or any other element, and which is not retractable such as an awning.
   12. Canopy Sign. Any sign attached to or constructed in, on or under a canopy for the purpose of this Article, canopy signs shall be controlled by the rules governing projecting signs.
   13. Changeable Message Sign. A sign such as a manual, electronic or electric controlled time and temperature sign message center, or reader board, whether electronic or manual, where copy changes. Any sign may be, or include as part of it, a changeable message sign.
   14. Copy Area. The geometric area in square feet that encloses the actual copy message of the sign.
   15. Directional Sign. Any sign that directs the movement or placement of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on a lot and does not contain any advertising copy.
   16. Directly Illuminated Sign. Any sign designed to give any artificial light directly through any transparent or translucent material from a source of light originating within or on such sign.
   17. Directory Sign. Any sign on which the names and locations of occupants or the use of a building is given. This shall include offices and church directories. Directory signs shall be encouraged for use with advertising of multiple-occupied commercial and industrial buildings.
   18. Display Surface or Face. The display surface is the area made available by the sign structure for the purpose of displaying the advertising message, or which is intended to draw attention to the advertising message.
       
   19. Distance of Sign Projection. The distance from the exterior wall surface of the building to the outer extremity of a sign attached to a building.
   20. Electric Sign. Any sign containing internal electrical wiring which is attached, or intended to be attached, to an electrical energy source.
   21. Electronic Message Unit Sign. Any sign whose message may be changed by electronic process, including such messages as copy, art, graphics, time, date, temperature, weather or information concerning civic, charitable or the advertising of products or services for sale on the premises. This also includes traveling or segmented message displays.
   22. Flashing Sign. Any directly or indirectly illuminated sign on which artificial light is not maintained stationary and constant in intensity and color at all times when in use.
   23. Flat Sign/Flush Mounted. See definition for "Wall Signs."
   24. Freestanding (Ground and/or Pylon Sign). Any sign which is supported by structures or supports in or upon the ground and independent of support from any building.
   25. Grade. The elevation or level of the sidewalk closest to the sign to which reference is made. If no sidewalk is present, then grade shall be defined as the elevation or level of the street at the same point, measured at the street's centerline.
   26. Gross Area. The area of a sign determined by using the outside perimeter dimensions of the sign. If the sign consists of more than one module or section, their areas will be totaled. If the modules are formed in the shape of letters or symbols, the rules for Area of Copy apply.
   27. Ground Sign. A sign supported by poles, uprights or braces extending from the ground or an object on the ground but not attached to any part of any building. Also known as a "freestanding sign."
   28. Height of Sign. The vertical distance measured from the mean centerline street grade to the highest point of the sign. If sign and sidewalk are not in essentially parallel planes, then measured vertically at the horizontal midpoint of the sign.
   29. Identification Sign. Any sign which carries only the name of the firm, major enterprise, institution or principal products offered for sale on the premises or combination of these.
   30. Illuminated Awning. An internally illuminated awning fabricated from a translucent material, or one which is backlighted as to appear to illuminate the awning sign. An illuminated awning may be used for an awning sign when other requirements are met.
   31. Illuminated Canopy. An internally illuminated canopy, or one which is backlighted as to appear to illuminate the canopy sign.
   32. Illuminated Sign. A sign lighted by or exposed to artificial lighting either by lights on or in the sign or directed toward the sign.
   33. Indirectly Illuminated Sign. A sign that is illuminated from a source outside of the actual sign.
   34. Joint Identification Sign. A sign which serves a common or collective identification for two (2) or more businesses or industrial uses on the same lot. Such sign may contain a directory to said uses as an integral part thereof.
       
   35. Legal Non-Conforming Sign. Any sign which was already in existence and displayed on the effective date of this Article, which met code requirements when originally installed, but not meeting the requirements and limitations of this Article.
   36. Marquee. A permanent roof-like structure projecting beyond a building wall at an entrance to a building or extending along and projecting beyond the building's wall and generally designed and constructed to provide protection against weather.
   37. Marquee Sign. Any sign attached to or constructed in a marquee.
   38. Nonconforming Sign. Any sign which does not conform to the regulations of this Article.
   39. Off-Premises Third Party Sign. Any sign, device or display which advertises goods other than that commonly available or services other than that commonly performed on the premises on which the sign is located.
   40. On-Premises Sign. A sign identifying or advertising a business, person, activity, goods, products or services located on a premises where the sign is installed and maintained.
   41. Painted Wall Signs. Signs painted directly onto a building wall.
   42. Political Sign. Any sign displaying a candidate for an election, or a current referendum's or election's subject matter.
   43. Portable Sign/Message Boards. Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or a building which is designed to be easily moved from one location to another.
   44. Projecting Sign. A sign other than a wall sign extending more than eighteen (18) inches, but less than four (4) feet from the face of a wall or building; such sign may not extend more than three (3) feet into the right-of-way. (See "Wall Sign".)
   45. Pylon Sign. Any freestanding sign mounted on a pole or other pylon. Also called a "pole sign."
   46. Real Estate Sign. Any sign which is used to offer for sale, lease or rent the property upon which the sign is placed.
   47. Roof Line. The highest point on any building where an exterior wall encloses usable floor area including roof area provided for housing mechanical equipment.
   48. Roof Sign. A sign erected upon or above the roof line or parapet of the building or structure.
   49. Sandwich Sign. A hinged or unhinged A-frame portable sign which is generally temporary in nature and placed near the roadway.
   50. Sign. Any object or device or part thereof situated outdoors or indoors 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, symbols, fixtures, colors, motion, illumination or projected images.
   51. Sign Contractor. Any person, partnership or corporation engaged in whole or in part, in the business of erection or maintenance of signs, excluding the business which the sign advertises.
       
   52. Sign Inspector. That person charged with the responsibility to see that signage in the community is installed and maintained in compliance with this Article. In the City of Stanley, the Sign Inspector will be the Zoning Administrator or Building Inspector.
   53. Sign Permit. A building permit issued for the erection, construction, enlargement, alteration, moving, improvement, removal, conversion or demolition of any sign, issued pursuant to this Article and the Building Code of the City of Stanley.
   54. Sign Structure. Any supports, uprights, braces and framework of the sign which does not include any portion of the sign message.
   55. Subdivision Identification Sign. A sign identifying a subdivision wherein only the name of the subdivision is specified.
   56. Swinging Sign. A sign installed on an arm or mast or spar that is not, in addition, permanently fastened to an adjacent wall or upright pole to limit or prevent free swinging.
   57. Temporary Sign. Any sign which is erected or displayed for a limited period of time not to exceed thirty (30) consecutive days or which is displayed only during regular business hours and removed for storage at other times. A temporary sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area. Examples of temporary signs include banners and decorative-type displays. For purposes of this Article, a portable sign is not a temporary sign.
   58. Time and Temperature Sign. An electrically controlled sign displaying time and temperature for public service information and may be incorporated into a business identification sign.
   59. Third Party Sign. Any sign which advertises or directs attention to a business, commodity, service or activity conducted, sold or offered elsewhere than on the lot on which said sign is located.
   60. Wall Sign. Any sign attached parallel to, erected on or painted on the wall of a building or structure and projecting not more than sixteen (16) inches from such wall.
   61. Window Sign. Any sign located completely within an enclosed building and visible from a public way. For purposes of this Article a window sign shall not include any sign permanently attached in the window or directly painted on the glass.
       

1. Permit Required; Payment of Sign Permit Fee.
   1. Except those specified in Section 13-1-143, no sign, billboard, awning or canopy, as defined in this Article, shall hereafter be located, erected, moved, reconstructed, extended, enlarged, converted or structurally altered without a sign permit and without being in conformity with the provisions of this Article. A sign permit is not required for a change of sign copy when no change in business name is involved.
   2. Signs also shall meet all other structural requirements of other applicable codes and ordinances of the City of Stanley including, as necessary and without limitation by enumeration, building permit and inspection requirements, site plan approval requirements and all applicable yard setback requirements. If the sign will affect the structural strength of a building, is large enough to require structural supports and bracing, or is to have electrical wiring, a building permit from the Building Inspector shall also be required.
   3. Signs shall not be erected or altered until a permit has been issued by the Zoning Administrator. "Altered" shall be defined as any modification in the size, height, dimensions, location or mounting of a sign other than routine maintenance.
   4. The required sign permit fee shall accompany each sign application and shall be required for all new signs and any modifications of any existing sign face or sign structure. A fee shall not be charged for putting an existing sign in conformity with this Article, or for a copy change when no change in business name is involved.
   5. Any sign permit granted hereunder may not be assigned or transferred to any other sign or modified sign face or sign structure.
2. Application for a Sign Permit. Any person, firm, corporation or organization desiring to place, erect, alter or relocate a sign, as herein defined, except an exempt sign, shall make application to the Zoning Administrator and shall provide in writing the following information:
   1. The name, address, telephone number (land line, cellphone and fax), and email address of the applicant.
   2. The name, address, telephone number (land line, cellphone and fax), and email address of the owner or owners of the premises upon which the sign is to be attached or erected, including written proof of consent from the property owner upon which the sign(s) are to be erected and maintained.
   3. The name, address, telephone number (land line, cellphone and fax), and email address of the owner of the sign if he/she is neither the applicant nor the owner of the premises on which the sign is to be attached or erected.
   4. The street number and street name or tax parcel number of the land upon which the sign is to be attached or erected.
   5. A legible scaled drawing with description and dimensions of the sign(s) to be erected or maintained under that permit and the sign's proposed location on the building or site.
   6. The basic materials to be used in the construction of the sign.
   7. A description of all electrical equipment if the sign is to be lighted or illuminated.
   8. Information about the sign: dimensions, including display surface; materials; illumination; wiring; height above grade; and distance from lot lines.
      
   9. Proof of payment of the appropriate sign permit fee, when required.
   10. Any other item of information that may be reasonably required by the Zoning Administrator or other City officials for the purpose of application evaluation.
3. Application Review.
   1. If the application is complete and the sign conforms to the basic requirements of this Article, the Zoning Administrator may issue a permit.
   2. The Zoning Administrator shall review all applications within thirty (30) days of submittal. The Zoning Administrator shall review the applications and apply the established Sign Design Review Guidelines prescribed in Subsections (d) and (e).
4. Basis for Granting. In reviewing a sign permit application, the Zoning Administrator may consider the following factors in deciding whether or not to grant the issuance of a sign permit [see also Subsection (e) below]:
   1. Whether the sign is designed, installed, and maintained to promote the surrounding environment desired by the general public, pursuant to the objectives of proper design and zoning criteria.
   2. Whether the sign is designed, constructed, installed, or maintained in such a manner that it does not endanger public safety or traffic safety.
   3. Whether the sign is legible, readable, and visible in the circumstances in which it is to be used.
   4. Whether the sign, including size, height, illumination and location, is respectful of reasonable rights of other advertisers whose messages are displayed in the area.
   5. Whether the sign is in compliance with the provisions of this Article.
   6. Whether the sign is in compliance with the provisions of this Code of Ordinances relating to traffic safety, traffic visibility setbacks, historic preservation and zoning.
5. Sign Design Review Guidelines. In addition to the criteria established in Subsection (d) above, the following Sign Review Guidelines shall be used by the Common Council in acting on sign permit applications and by the Zoning Board of Appeals in acting on appeals or variance requests:
   1. Any signage affixed to a building should be dimensioned and located in such a manner that it fits the building's architectural features and proportions.
   2. All signs should be designed to fit the zoning and status character of the surrounding area. Special consideration should be made where proposed signage is located on or adjacent to locally identified historic structures or publicly owned recreation and conservancy areas. Signage in special planning areas, such as the downtown, or historic preservation areas, will be required to conform to the planned dominant architectural theme of the area. Signage in or abutting residential properties should be designed and located so as not to create a residential nuisance.
   3. As a general guidelines and where feasible, ground mounted, free standing signs larger than six (6) square feet shall be located at least one hundred (100) feet apart.
   4. Signs illuminated by floodlight or spotlights must be positioned in such a manner that none of the light spills over onto an adjoining property or glares or shines into the eyes of motorists or pedestrians, and may not exceed three (3) footcandles at the lot line.
   5. As a general guideline, the number of colors and materials should be kept to a minimum.
   6. Landscape features will be encouraged as part of all ground mounted signs. Landscape plantings or other landscape materials will not be counted as part of the allowable signage area.
6. Permit Issuance/Denial.
   1. All sign permit applications shall be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator who shall deny or grant such applications or refer the application to the Common Council, within ten (10) business days of receipt of the complete application and payment of fee. If the sign meets the requirements of this Article and all other ordinances of the City of Stanley, the Zoning Administrator shall issue a permit therefor.
   2. If the sign permit is denied by the Zoning Administrator, within five (5) days, a written notice of the denial shall be provided to the applicant, together with a brief written statement of the reasons for the denial.
   3. No permit for a sign issued hereunder shall be deemed to constitute permission or authorization to maintain an unlawful sign, nor shall any permit issued hereunder constitute a defense in an action to abate an unlawful sign.
7. Appeal of Denial of Sign Permit.
   1. Any decision of the Zoning Administrator under this Article may be appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals. A request for an appeals hearing shall be made in writing to the Zoning Administrator within thirty (30) days of the date of permit denial.
   2. A majority vote of the Zoning Board of Appeals is required to modify the earlier determination of the Zoning Administrator.
8. Permit Revocation; Appeal.
   1. A sign permit may be revoked by the Zoning Administrator in the event that the applicant has failed to comply with the provisions of these regulations or any conditions that may have accompanied the permit at the time of granting.
   2. The holder of a revoked sign permit may appeal such revocation action to the Zoning Board of Appeals. A request for an appeals hearing shall be made in writing to the Zoning Administrator within thirty (30) days of the date of the original permit revocation.
   3. Upon any permit revocation or failure to prevail before the Zoning Board of Appeals, the sign(s) subject to such revoked permits shall be removed by the licensee within thirty (30) days of such revocation.
   4. Revocation shall not give cause to a right of total or partial reimbursement of license fees paid.
9. Standards for Zoning Board of Appeals in Reviewing Appeals. The Zoning Board of Appeals may authorize upon appeal, in specific cases, issuance of a sign permit when such decision will not be contrary to the public interest, where owing to special conditions a literal enforcement of the provisions of this Article will result in unnecessary hardship and so that the spirit of this Article shall be observed and substantial justice done. No Zoning Board of Appeals appellate decision shall have the effect of allowing in any district uses prohibited in that district or permit standards significantly lower than those required by state law or this Article.
10. Stay of Proceedings During Appeals. An appeal shall stay all legal proceedings in furtherance of the action appealed from, unless the Zoning Administrator certifies to the Zoning Board of Appeals that, by reason of facts stated in the certificate, a stay would, in his/her opinion, cause immediate peril to life or property. In such cases, proceedings shall not be stayed otherwise than by a restraining order which may be granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals or by a court of record on application, on notice to the Zoning Administrator and on due cause shown.
11. Signs in Historic Districts. In addition to these sign regulations, all signs within any historic district shall be subject to the provisions of the City's Historic Preservation Code.
12. Insurance. Any person, firm or corporation engaged in the business of erecting, repairing, maintaining or relocating any sign shall maintain in effect at all times a policy of liability insurance with limits of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00) for bodily injury and Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($200,000.00) aggregate and One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00) property damage. Proof in insurance shall be presented to the Zoning Administrator before the sign permit is granted.
13. Inspection. The applicant shall, upon completion of the installation, relocation or alteration of the sign, notify the Zoning Administrator who may inspect the premises to inspect whether the sign complies with the regulations of this Article.
14. Permit Validity. Any sign permit issued by the Zoning Administrator shall be null and void and automatically revoked in the event that construction, installation, or manufacture of the sign has not been commenced within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of the issuance of such permit. If work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of ninety (90) days any time after the work is commenced, the original permit shall become null and void. A new permit shall first be obtained to complete the work, and a new permit fee shall be required.

Cross-Reference: Section 13-1-263, Variances.

The following signs may be erected and maintained in all zoning districts, provided the sign is not located over a public water or right-of-way, except where noted, without a permit and without being deducted from gross sign surface area permitted.

1. Bulletin Boards. One bulletin board per premises per street frontage, and not over twenty-four (24) feet in area, for public, charitable or religious institutions located on site. Such sign shall be located entirely within the property lines of the use.
2. Government Signs. Government signs for control of traffic, parking and other regulatory purposes, danger signs, railroad crossing signs, and signs of public utilities indicating danger, and aids to service or safety which are erected by or on the order of a public officer in the performance of his/her public duty. This includes legal notices, identification or directional signs erected by governmental bodies. Included within this definition are off-premises institutional signs.
3. Interior Signs. Signs located within the interior of any building or structure which are not visible from the public right-of-way.
4. Memorial Signs. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and date of erection when cut into any masonry surface, or inlaid so as to be part of the building.
5. Occupant Nameplate Signs. Signs limited in content to name of occupant and address of premises. Occupant signs shall be a maximum of one (1) per street front and no more than (4) square feet in sign area.
6. Governmental Notices. Official governmental notices and notices posted by governmental officers in the performance of their duties; informational notices: or for other informational or regulatory purposes, to identify streets or to warn of danger.
7. Temporary Construction Safety Signs. Temporary or permanent signs erected by public utility companies or construction companies to warn of dangerous or hazardous conditions.
8. Traffic and Service Signs on Private Premises. Traffic and parking signs and devices privately-owned and on private premises, and containing messages such as "exit only", "restricted for ", and the like, the sole purpose of which is to direct and control traffic on the premises and which does not exceed seven (7) feet above the curb line, nor contain more than ten (10) square feet per face. Signs designating entrances, exits, service areas, parking areas, restrooms and other such signs relating to functional operation of the building or premises shall be permitted without permit under this exception.
9. Signs Required by Law. Signs required by law, statute or ordinance, constructed and maintained according to the law, statute or ordinance under which the sign was erected.
10. Real Estate Signs. One (1) "For Sale" or "For Rent" sign per street frontage may be placed on the offered property and shall not be more than six (6) square feet in size for residential property and not more than thirty-two (32) square feet in area for non-residential property. No such sign shall be closer than twelve (12) feet to a lot line. The sign may only advertise the sale, rental or lease of the premises upon which it is located and contain the name and/or logo of the real estate company, or individuals and their respective addresses and telephone numbers, posting the sign. No such sign shall project higher than one (1) story or fifteen (15) feet above curb level, whichever is lower, when attached to a building; detached or freestanding signs shall not be more than four (4) feet in height, measured from the soil grade to the top of the sign post. Such signs shall be removed within fifteen (15) days after sale, rental or lease of the property.
11. Signs in Display Windows. Signs in the display window of a business which relate to services or products offered therein. This display sign exception is only permitted for properties in the following zoning districts: B-1 through B-6 Districts. The window sign must direct attention to a business or profession conducted on the premises or to a product, service or entertainment sold or offered on said premises. Window signs shall be placed only on the inside of commercial buildings and shall not exceed thirty-five percent (35%) of the glass area of the pane upon which the sign is displayed.
12. On-Premises Symbols or Insignia. Religious symbols, commemorative plaques of recognized historic agencies, or identification emblems of religious orders or historical agencies.
13. On-Premises Temporary and Portable Signs in Residential Districts. Temporary or portable signs under twenty (20) square feet for the purpose of an on-site open house, model home demonstration, special event such as a birthday or anniversary, and for five (5) days thereafter, but may not exceed a total period of thirty (30) days per twelve (12) month period.
14. Civic Event Temporary Signs. Temporary off-premises signs not exceeding four (4) square feet in residential or public lands districts, or thirty-two (32) square feet in the B-1 through B-6 Districts and I-1 Districts, pertaining to drives or events of civic, philanthropic, educational, religious, or non-profit organizations, provided such signs are posted not more than thirty (30) days before said event and removed within seven (7) days after the event.
15. Political Signs. Political message, public election or referenda signs during an election campaign shall comply with Sec. 12.04(1), Wis. Stats. Political signs may be posted ninety (90) days before an election and must be removed within ten (10) days after said election. Said sign shall be a maximum of four (4) square feet.
16. Rummage/Garage Sale Signs. Rummage or garage sale signs not to exceed eight (8) square feet in area, but use of this type of sign shall be limited to seventy-two (72) hours per sale. Rummage or garage sale signs may only be located on the day of the garage sale within street right-of-way lines between the private property line and the pavement edge with the permission of the adjoining private property owner or renter in a location which does not create a visibility or traffic hazard (as determined by the Zoning Administrator or a law enforcement officer).
17. Open/Close Signs. Illuminated and non-illuminated signs not exceeding ten (10) square feet in area announcing that a business is open or closed.
18. Decorative Features. Integral decorative or architectural features of buildings, except letters, trademarks, moving parts or moving lights.

In addition to those permitted signs not requiring a permit pursuant to Section 13-1-143, the following non-flashing, nonilluminated signs (except as otherwise provided) are permitted under the conditions specified in all residential districts and planned unit developments (residential) established by the City's Zoning Code.

1. Temporary Signs Accessory to Subdivision Developments or Other Permitted Improvements in Residential Districts. Subject to the following:
   1. Content. The signs shall be only for the purpose of identification of homes for sale or rent in the subdivision under construction, of lots for sale, or for the identification of other nonresidential uses under construction.
   2. Area, Number and Setback. Such signs shall not exceed two (2) in number for each subdivision nor fifty (50) square feet each in area. They shall observe the front yard requirement of the principal use and shall be located at least fifty (50) feet from all other boundaries of the site.
   3. Height. No sign shall project higher than eight (8) feet above curb level.
   4. Time Limitations. The sign or signs shall be removed by the applicant or property owner within two (2) years of the date of the issuance of a sign permit or when the parcels being advertised are sold, whichever occurs first.
2. Permanent Subdivision Identification Signs. Subject to the following:
   1. Content. The signs shall bear only the name of the subdivision or development.
   2. Area and Number. There shall be not more than two (2) signs located at each entrance to a subdivision. No sign shall exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area. Such identification signs shall only be erected after review and approval by the Zoning Administrator.
   3. Height. No sign shall project higher than twelve (12) feet above curb level.
   4. Location. The location of any such sign shall be at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator based upon the character of the area, the type and purpose of the sign.
3. Non-flashing, Illuminated Signs (School, Civic, Church/Religious). Subject to the following:
   1. Area and Number. There shall be not more than one (1) sign per lot, except that on a corner lot, two (2) signs (one facing each street) shall be permitted. No sign shall exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area nor be closer than five (5) feet from any lot line.
   2. Projection. No sign shall project beyond the property line into the public right-of-way.
   3. Height. No sign shall project higher than one (1) story or fifteen (15) feet above the curb level, whichever is lower.
4. Bed and Breakfast Signs. Subject to the following:
   1. Content. The sign shall bear only the name, address and other pertinent information regarding the bed and breakfast establishment.
   2. Area and Number. There shall not be more than one (1) sign per lot street frontage. No sign shall exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area. Such sign shall have a ten (10) feet setback from a public right-of-way or lot line.
   3. Projection. No sign shall project beyond the property line into the public right-of-way.
   4. Height. No sign shall project higher than six (6) feet above the street level.
5. Home Occupation/Professional Home Office. Subject to the following:
   1. Content. The sign shall bear only the name, address, hours and other pertinent information regarding the on-site home occupation or professional home office maintained in compliance with the City's Zoning Code.
   2. Area and Number. There shall not be more than one (1) sign per lot. No sign shall exceed twelve (12) square feet in gross area. Such sign shall have a ten (10) foot setback from a public right-of-way or lot line, and illumination shall be indirect.
   3. Projection. No sign shall project beyond the property line into the public right-of-way.
   4. Height. No sign shall project higher than six (6) feet above the street level.

1. Permitted Signs. The following signs in this Section shall require a sign permit to be issued unless otherwise specified. Signs may be permitted in specific zoning categories, subject to the following restrictions.
2. Height and Setback Requirements. In commercial, agricultural, urban transitional or industrial zoning districts where setbacks are required for building construction, no part of any sign shall extend over the property line. In zoning districts where no front yard setbacks are required, a sign must be attached to the building and shall project no more than four (4) feet over the abutting public sidewalk or established street grade.
3. Total Area and Number of Signs Permitted.
   1. Total Number. No more than one (1) off-premises third party sign or directory/community sign and three (3) signs of any other type shall be located at any business, except that premises occupied by a shopping center may, a an alternative, have one (1) detached directory sign plus one (1) wall sign for each place of business located in said shopping center. In the UT-1 Urban Transitional District only, four (4) signs are permitted per zoning lot and may be freestanding or connected to the building.
   2. Corner Lots. Businesses with streets fronting both sides shall be allowed two (2) types of signs for each street frontage; no street frontage buildings shall be allowed two (2) of the san1e type of sign for that particular business.
   3. Total Sign Area. The gross area in square feet of all signs shall not exceed four (4) times the lineal front footage of the zoning lot; however, the gross surface area of all illuminated signs shall not exceed two (2) times the lineal front footage. Where square footage standards are established for specific zoning districts, the more restrictive standard shall be applicable.
      
4. Types of Signs; Maximum Size; Number; Location.
   1. Type 1 — Directory Signs. Directory signs advertising a business or activity conducted, an area of interest, or a service available, at a specific location. Such signs shall be not more than twenty-four (24) square feet in gross area. There shall be not more than two (2) such signs relating to any one (1) such use in the approaching direction along any one (1) highway/street. No such sign shall be more than ten (10) miles away from the location to which it relates. Such signs may be placed at the right-of-way line of the highway/street. A larger number of directory signs may be permitted upon application to the Zoning Board of Appeals and if such Board finds that additional signage is necessary for directing the traveling public. Permit required.
   2. Type 2 — Wall Signs. Wall signs on and parallel to the exterior wall of a building or structure, and not extending more than six (6) inches from the wall surface, shall not exceed in gross area for any one (1) premise or be more than twenty (20) feet in height - Permit required:
      1. One hundred (100) square feet in a B-I District or AEO District.
      2. Two hundred (200) square feet in a B-3, B-5 or B-6 District.
      3. Four hundred (400) square feet in an I-I or SP-I Industrial District.
   3. Type 3 — Projecting Signs. Projecting signs fastened or attached to, suspended from, or supported by a building or structure, shall not exceed in gross area for any one (1) premise: Forty (40) square feet on each of two (2) faces in a B-I or B-2 District or AEO District; sixty (60) square feet on each of two (2) faces in a B-3, B-4, B-5 or B-6 Highway Business District; and eighty (80) square feet on each of two (2) sides in an I-I or SP-I District. Such signs shall not extend more than five (5) feet from the building nor more than two (2) feet into any public right-of-way; shall not be less than ten (10) feet into any public right-of-way; shall not be less than ten (10) feet from any side lot line; shall not exceed a height of twenty (20) feet above the mean centerline street grade; and shall not be less than ten (10) feet above a pedestrian sidewalk nor less than fifteen (15) feet above a road, street, alley or driveway. Permit required.
   4. Type 4 — Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs and their supporting structure shall comply with all yard requirements of the District in which they are located and shall not exceed in gross area for any one (1) premise: Eighty (80) square feet on each side in the B-I, B-2 or AEO District; one hundred twenty (120) square feet on each side in the B-3 or B-4 District; or one hundred sixty (160) square feet on each side in the B-5, B-6 or I-I District. Such signs shall not exceed thirty (30) feet in height above mean centerline street grade. Freestanding sign supports shall be located not closer than ten (10) feet to any property line and no part of a sign shall project into the public right-of-way. Permit required.
   5. Type 5 — Roof Signs. Roof signs shall comply with all yard and height restrictions of the zoning district in which they are located and shall not exceed in gross area for any one (1) parcel. Permit Required.
      
   6. Type 6 — Window Signs. Window signs may be placed in the windows of business establishments provided their combined area does not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the gross area of all windows on the same side of the building. No permit required.
   7. Type 7 — Recreational Directory Sign. Recreational directory signs indicating the direction to a cottage, resort, residence or similar use. Such signs shall not be more than twelve (12) square feet in gross area. Where a common posting standard is provided all such signs shall be attached to the standard recreational directory. The resulting composite sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in gross area. Signs may be placed at the right-of-way line of a highway/street. Permit required.
   8. Type 8 — Off-Premises Third Party Signs. Off-premises third party signs are prohibited except that a business in a B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4, B-5 B-6 or I-1 District may host one (1) off-premises third party or community/directory pylon or ground sign directing customers to another business location. No business shall employ or utilize more than one (1) off-premises directory/community sign within the limits of the City. Shared signs shall comply with the dimensional requirements of Subsections (d)(4) and (5) above, except that the secondary directory sign's dimensions shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the primary sign's maximum allowable dimensions. Such signs shall share the same pylon or ground sign mountings whenever possible.
   9. Type 9 — Integrated Shopping Center/Industrial Park Directory Signs.
      1. In a shopping center or industrial park, one (1) free-standing identification/directory sign for each street upon which the development fronts may be permitted showing the name of said center or park and represented business or industries.
      2. Directory signs for shopping centers or industrial parks are permitted as an alternative to freestanding signs or projecting signs for individual stores in the shopping center or business in the industrial park.
      3. The top of a directory sign shall not exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height above the mean centerline street grade and the bottom of the sign shall not be less than ten (10) feet above the sidewalk and not more than sixteen (16) feet above a driveway or alley.
      4. Double supporting pylons shall not be greater than ten (10) feet apart.
      5. The gross surface area, in square feet of all business signs shall not exceed two (2) times the lineal feet of front footage on such zoning lot. All signs may be illuminated.
      6. That portion of the directory sign which advertises the individual store/business name shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet for one (1) side and a total of thirty-two (32) square feet for all sides.
      7. Directory signs shall meet all yard requirements for the zoning district in which they are located.
   10. Type 10 — Canopy Signs. Signs attached to permanent, stationary canopies or marquees shall not extend more than twelve (12) inches from the face of the canopy or marquee, nor shall any canopy sign extend more than thirty-six (36) inches above the top of the marquee or canopy.
   11. Type 11 — Advertising Signs. Advertising signs up to eight hundred (800) square feet in area provided that the sign is:
       1. No closer than thirty (30) feet to the public right-of-way;
       2. No closer than one hundred (100) feet to another advertising sign facing the same right-of-way;
       3. Not higher than one hundred ten (110) feet; and
       4. No closer than one hundred (100) feet to an R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4 or R-5 District.
   12. Type 12 — Boulevard Signs.
       1. Subject to the right of the City to deny or revoke permission to erect and maintain such a sign, signs advertising entrances and exits to businesses, which may include identification of the business in question, may be located in the boulevard adjoining and between sidewalks and the paved or otherwise traveled portion of the right-of-way of a street or highway.
       2. Prior to erecting such a sign, the owner or operator of an affected business shall obtain a permit from the Zoning Administrator. An application for such a permit shall include the following information: proposed location(s) and size(s) of sign(s), together with a description or representation of the contents of the sign(s).
       3. The City may deny permission to erect and maintain such a sign or may revoke permission previously granted for any of the following reasons:
          1. At its location or due to its size;
          2. The sign may constitute a hazard to traffic on or entering or exiting from the adjoining street;
          3. The sign is situated on, over or immediately adjacent to public or private water, sanitary or storm sewer mains, electrical or telephone lines or other utility lines, for which utility service use of the right-of-way of the street in question has been reserved or granted to the utility in question by the authority maintaining the street in question.
       4. Prior to granting a permit under this paragraph, the Zoning Administrator shall consult with the Chief of Police, the Public Works Superintendent and the City Clerk-Treasurer to ascertain whether any of the circumstances giving rise to a denial or revocation of a permit exist.
       5. No person who erects such a sign shall, by virtue of said permission to use City right-of-way, obtain any property right in the continued use and maintenance of said sign at such location in the right-of-way of a City street and upon revocation of permission shall immediately remove the same.
5. Permitted Locations of Signs Requiring a Permit.
   
   

   Zoning District	Types of Signs Permitted
   B-1	10
   B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4, IN-1, UT-1, P-1	1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
   I-1, SP-1	1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
   A-1, A-2, A-3	1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
   C-1	3, 6, 7
   AEO	Per district requirements

A sign permit is required in any zoning district for the following special sign types:

1. Electronic Message Unit Signs.
   1. Such signs may be used only to advertise activities conducted on the premises or to present public service information.
   2. Segmented messages must be displayed for not less than one-half (1/2) second and more than ten (10) seconds.
   3. Traveling messages may travel no slower than sixteen (16) light columns per second and no faster than thirty-two (32) columns per second.
2. Portable Signs/Message Boards.
   1. The use of portable, temporary or non-fixed signs or message boards is prohibited within the City unless the owner or tenant of the property on which such type of sign is to be located first obtains a portable/temporary sign permit from the Common Council. Such permit is valid for the calendar year and is subject to annual review by the Common Council for compliance with the requirements of this Subsection.
   2. The Common Council shall not issue a permit for placement of a portable sign/message board if it presents a vision obstruction. The maximum size of a portable sign/message board shall be ten (10) square feet on each face, back to back. Portable signs/message boards shall not be located in any public right-of-ways, shall not have flashing lights, and shall be securely fastened to prevent any hazardous condition.
3. Search Lights. The Zoning Administrator may permit the temporary use of a searchlight for advertising purposes in any district provided that the searchlight will not be located in any public right-of-way, will not be located closer than ten (10) feet to an adjacent property and will not cause a hazard to traffic or adjoining properties. Searchlight permits shall not be granted for a period of more than five (5) days in any six (6) month period.
4. Sandwich Signs. In instances where the property owner or business tenant in a B-1, B-2 or UT-1 District wishes to erect an on-premises temporary sandwich board advertising that business, there is a limit of one (1) sandwich board per business tenant and such sign shall not exceed four (4) feet in height and eight (8) square feet per side display area. Sandwich signs may be placed only after issuance of a sign permit and shall be placed in a manner so as not to present a hazard. Sandwich signs shall be removed from the right-of-way area at the close of each business day.
5. On-Site Banner Signs. On-site banner signs, whether permanent or temporary, shall not be erected for over sixty (60) days.
6. Over-the-Street Banners. Over-the-street banners are not permitted, except for civic activities.
7. Neon Signs. Exterior neon or gas illumination signs require a sign permit.
8. Signs Accessory to Roadside Stands.
   1. Content. The signs shall only be for the purpose of identification of the roadside stand and advertising the agricultural products for sale therein.
   2. Area and Number. The signs shall be on the same zoning lot (either zoned agricultural or with a conditional use permit in other zoning districts) as the roadside stand, and there shall be not more than three (3) signs per parcel. No sign shall exceed twelve (12) square feet in area nor be closer than fifty (50) feet from any other zoning lot.
   3. Projection. No sign shall project beyond the property line into the public way.
   4. Height. No sign shall project higher than fifteen (15) feet above the curb level.
   5. Permit. A sign permit is required for this type of sign.

1. Permitted Awnings. No awnings shall be erected or maintained, except such awnings as comply with the following requirements, and then only if the permit required hereunder is first obtained and the same conform to the regulations of the zoning district in which the same are to be located:
   1. Support. Awnings shall be securely attached to and supported by the building and shall be without posts or columns beyond the setback line.
   2. Height. All awnings shall be constructed and erected so that the lowest portion thereof shall be not less than eight (8) feet above the level of the public sidewalk or public thoroughfare.
   3. Awning Extension from Curb Line. No entrance awning shall extend beyond a point eight (8) feet into the right-of-way.
   4. Advertising. No advertising shall be placed on any awning, except that the name and logo of the establishment within the building to which the awning is attached may be painted or otherwise permanently placed in a space not exceeding eight (8) inches in height on the front and side edges.
2. Permitted Canopies. No canopies shall be erected or maintained, except such canopies as comply with the following requirements, and then only if the permit required hereunder is first obtained and the same conform to the regulations of the zoning district in which the same are to be located:
   1. Support. The structural support of all canopies shall be properly designed and be approved by the Zoning Administrator as in compliance with the Building Code of the City. All frames and supports shall be designed to withstand a wind pressure as provided in this Article. All canopies and awnings shall be attached to a building, and no supports shall exist beyond the setback line between the canopy and/or awning and the sidewalk or ground below.
   2. Height Above Sidewalk. All canopies shall be constructed and erected so that the lowest portion thereof shall not be less than eight (8) feet above the level of the sidewalk or public thoroughfare.
   3. Canopy Extension from Curb Line. No entrance canopy shall extend beyond a point eight (8) feet from the face of a wall or building.
   4. Advertising. No advertising shall be placed on any canopy, except that the name and logo of the establishment may be painted or placed in a space not exceeding twenty-four (24) inches in average height on the front and side edges. Such name may be so painted or placed irrespective of any prohibition otherwise applicable hereunder, providing, however, that if such canopy shall contain more or other than the name of the establishment in letters more than eight (8) inches high on the front and side edges, it shall be considered as a sign and be subject to all the provisions hereof.
      

Landscape features such as plant materials, berms, boulders, fencing and similar design elements unincorporated or in conjunction with freestanding signs are encouraged and shall not be counted as allowable sign area. The base of signs shall be landscaped so as to conceal footings, mountings, brackets, and related structural elements.

1. Traffic Interference. Signs shall not resemble, imitate or approximate the shape, size, form or color of railroad or traffic signs or devices. Signs, canopies and awnings shall not obstruct or interfere with the effectiveness of railroad or traffic signs, signals or devices or the safe flow of traffic. No sign shall be erected, relocated or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window or fire escape. No sign, awning or canopy shall be placed so as to obstruct or interfere with traffic visibility.
2. Moving or Flashing Signs. No sign shall be erected which has any flashing, rotating or brilliant intermittent parts or lights, bare reflecting-type bulbs, or utilizes a spot or beacon light to illuminate a sign, except those giving public service information such as time, date, temperature, weather or similar information. Public information display signs require approval by the Common Council. No signs, billboards or other advertising media which creates a hazard or dangerous distraction to vehicular traffic or a nuisance to adjoining residential property shall be permitted in any district.
   
3. Signs on Public Rights-of-Way. Signs shall not be permitted on public rights-of-way, except for municipal traffic control, parking and directional signs and as otherwise specified in this Article.
4. Billboards. No new billboards shall be permitted in the City of Stanley after the original effective date of this Article. Billboards located upon property annexed to the City and existing as of the effective date of this Article are permitted to remain unless the owner structurally alters such billboard in any manner. If damaged, or if structural alteration is made/required, such billboard shall be permanently removed. However, any billboards existing as of the effective date of this Article must be removed permanently within three (3) years following annexation, and with such removal being agreed to in writing by the owner/lessor/lessee thereof in writing prior to such annexation.
5. Painted Wall and Other Prohibited Signs. Painted wall signs are signs which are painted directly onto the surface of the building; painted wall signs are prohibited in the City of Stanley. No person shall paste or otherwise fasten any paper or other material, paint, stencil or write any number, sign, name or any disfiguring mark within any street right-of-way, on any sidewalk, curb, gutter, street, post, fire hydrant, pole or tree, any other sign, building, fence or other structure, nor shall any of said objects be defaced in any manner. No signage shall be used except those types specifically permitted by this Article.
6. Immoral Sign Subjects. Signs which bear or contain statements, words, pictures, or symbols of obscene, pornographic or immoral subjects are prohibited.
7. Roof Signs. Roof signs are prohibited in the City of Stanley.
8. Swinging Signs. Swinging signs are prohibited.
9. Third-Party Signs. Third-party signs and billboards are prohibited, except as provided in Section 13-1-145(d)(6).
10. Advertising Vehicle Sign Configuration. No persons shall park any vehicle or trailer on a public right-of-way or on private properties so as to be seen from a public right-of-way, which has attached thereto or located thereon any sign or advertising device for the basic purposes of providing advertisement of products or directing people to a business activity located on the same or nearby property or any other premises. Business vehicles containing typical business signage and which are actively used on a daily basis for business purposes, are exempt from this prohibition.
11. Floodlighted and Illuminated Signs. Signs may be floodlighted or illuminated, subject to the following restrictions:
    1. Signs which are not effectively shielded so as to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed at any portion of the traveled ways of a public right-of-way and which are of such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or to impair the vision of the driver of any motor vehicle, or which otherwise interfere with any driver's operations of a motor vehicle, are prohibited.
    2. Signs which are not effectively shielded as to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed at any residential property, and which are of such intensity or brilliance as to cause a public nuisance, are prohibited.
       
    3. No sign shall be so floodlighted or illuminated that it interferes with the effectiveness of or obscures an official traffic sign, device, or signal.
    4. Spotlights and beacons are restricted under Subsection (b) above.
       

1. Nonconforming Signs.
   1. Nonconforming Sign Criteria. Signs existing as of the effective date of this Article which do not conform to the provisions of this Article are nonconforming signs and shall be subject to the provisions of this Section. Nonconforming signs may be maintained. No nonconforming on-premises sign shall be altered or moved to a new location without being brought into compliance with the requirements of this Article. [Refer to Subsection (b) below.] Compliance is the responsibility of the property owner.
   2. New Signs Not Permitted. Business signs on the premises of a nonconforming use or building may be continued per this Section, but new signs for such uses shall not be allowed, nor shall expand in number, area, height, or illumination. New signs, not to exceed the maximum allowable aggregate sign area, may be erected only upon the complete removal of all other signs existing at the time of adoption of this Article.
   3. Removal Upon Business Termination. Nonconforming signs shall be removed when the principal structure located on the premises undergoes a change of use, or shall be removed per Section 13-1-151(a). Closing businesses must remove their signs within thirty (30) days of closing.
   4. Change in Sign User. Whenever there is a change in the sign user (excluding off-premises signs) or owner of the property on which the sign is located, the new sign user 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.
2. Alteration of Signs.
   1. Alteration Defined. For the purpose of this Article, alteration of a sign is considered to be any change to the exterior appearance of any part of the sign, its frame, its supporting structure, or its lighting including: changing the message (except for marquee or off-premises advertising signs), symbols, color, material, height or location.
   2. Maintenance Exception. Altering a sign does not include 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 sign; or changing the face of an off-premises advertising sign.
3. Legal Nonconforming Sign Maintenance and Repair. Nothing in this Article shall relieve the owner or use of a legal nonconforming sign or the owner of the property in which the sign is located from the provisions of this Article regarding safety, maintenance and repair of signs. However, legal nonconforming signs shall not be reinstalled, reconstructed or have their useful life extended.
   

1. Removal of Dangerous Signs. All signs shall be removed by the owner or tenant of the premises upon which the sign is located if in the judgment of the Zoning Administrator, such sign is so old, dilapidated or has become so out of repair as to be dangerous or unsafe, whichever occurs first. If the owner or tenant fails to remove it, the Zoning Administrator may remove the sign at cost of the owner, following adequate written notice. The owner may appeal the decision of the Building Inspector to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
2. Abandoned Signs. Except as otherwise herein provided, all sign messages shall be removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which an off-premises sign is located when the business it advertised is no longer conducted where advertised. If the owner or lessee fails to remove the sign, the Zoning Administrator shall give the owner sixty (60) days' written notice to remove said sign and thereafter upon the owner's or lessee's failure to comply may remove such sign, any costs for which shall be charged to the owner of the property or may be assessed as a special assessment against the property, and/or the Zoning Administrator may take any other appropriate legal action necessary to attain compliance.
3. Violations. All signs constructed or maintained in violation of any of the provisions of this Sign Code after the date of adoption are hereby declared public nuisances within the meaning of the City of Stanley Code of Ordinances. In addition to the penalty provisions for violations of this Article, the Zoning Administrator or Common Council may bring an action to abate the nuisance in the manner set forth in the Wisconsin Statutes or City ordinances.
   

1. Installation. All signs shall be properly secured, supported and braced and shall be kept in reasonable structural condition and shall be kept clean and well painted at all times. Bolts or screws shall not be fastened to window frames. Every sign and its framework, braces, anchors and other supports shall be constructed of such material and with such workmanship as to be safe and satisfactory to the Building Inspector or Zoning Administrator.
2. General Requirements.
   1. Construction Standards. All signs, except flat signs and those signs weighing less than ten (10) pounds, shall be designed, fastened and constructed to withstand a wind pressure of not less than thirty (30) pounds per square foot of area and shall be constructed, attached, fastened or anchored to adequately support the dead load and any anticipated live loads (i.e., ice, snow) of the sign.
   2. Projection. Signs including supports shall not interfere with surrounding properties or traffic.
   3. Prohibited Mounting. No signs shall be painted on, attached to or affixed to any trees, rocks, or other similar organic or inorganic natural matter, including utility poles or apparatus.
   4. Maintenance. All signs, including supports and attachments, shall be properly maintained and have an appearance that is neat and clean. All signs shall be kept in good structural condition, well painted, and clean at all times and the immediate premises shall be maintained in a clean, sanitary and inoffensive condition and kept free and clear of all obnoxious substances, rubbish and weeds.
   5. Annexed Areas. All signs in newly annexed areas shall comply with this Article within three (3) years of annexation.
      

Variances or exceptions to these sign regulations may be granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals following a recommendation from the Zoning Administrator, pursuant to the procedures of the City Zoning Code.

1. Construction Without Permit. Any person, firm or corporation who begins, erects, improperly alters, or completes the erection or construction of any sign, awning or canopy controlled by this Article prior to the granting of a sign permit shall pay a penalty double the amount of the permit otherwise required.
2. Compliance Notice.
   1. If the Zoning Administrator finds any sign, awning or canopy regulated herein unsafe or insecure or is a menace to the public, or has been improperly erected, altered or maintained, it shall give written notice to the sign owner and to the property owner.
   2. If such sign, awning or canopy owner fails to remove or alter the sign, awning or canopy so as to comply with the standards herein set forth within five (5) days after such notice, the Zoning Administrator may cause such sign, awning or canopy to be removed or altered at the expense of the owner of the sign, awning or canopy or the owner of the property upon which it is located so as to comply with the provisions of this Article, per Sec. 66.0627, Wis. Stats.
      
3. Violations; Penalties. Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this Article shall be subject to a penalty which shall be as follows:
   1. Any person found guilty of violating any part of this Article who has previously been notified of being in violation, upon conviction thereof, be subject to a forfeiture as prescribed by Section 13-1-225.
   2. Each violation and each day a violation continues or occurs shall constitute a separate offense. Nothing in this Article shall preclude the City from also maintaining any appropriate action to prevent or remove a violation of any provision of this Article.