The purpose of this chapter is to regulate and authorize the use of signs which are compatible with their surroundings, create a minimum distraction to motorists, and effectively, efficiently and conveniently advertise local businesses or events which promote a healthy, growing community while maintaining a sense of the history and beauty of the city. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   The prevention of distractive signage by this chapter is intended to ensure that property values are maintained or enhanced and to protect pedestrians and motorists alike. The creation of sign design, location, size, type, compatibility and aesthetic regulations is to achieve this purpose.

   B.   The regulations of this chapter are intended to apply to both on premises and off premises signs, but do not apply to handheld placards and other similar devices traditionally used for public protest and the exercise of free speech. Any noncommercial message may be substituted for any commercial message permitted under this chapter. It is not the intent of this chapter to regulate the content of public speech. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   In interpreting and applying the provisions of this chapter, the sign regulations contained herein are declared to be the maximum allowable for the purposes set forth. If the zoning administrator or a designated representative determines that an application needs further interpretation, the signage request may be forwarded to the planning commission for their review of the proposal.

   B.   If the applicant wishes to propose or retain a sign that does not conform to ordinance standards, a decision for a variance or special exception must be obtained by application to the board of adjustment as outlined in chapter 4, article A of this title. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

The following definitions shall apply to the interpretation of this chapter:

BILLBOARD: See definition of Sign, Off Premises.

COPY: The wording on a sign surface in either permanent or removable letter form.

PROMOTIONAL BOARD: A permanently attached, changeable copy portion of an approved sign. The area of said promotional board shall not exceed thirty three percent (33%) of the maximum area of sign, per face, permitted in the particular zone where the use is located.

SIGN: Any device, structure, fixture or placard using graphics, symbols and/or written copy designed specifically for the purpose of advertising or identifying any establishment, product, goods or services. Devices not included in this definition include official traffic or government signs, window displays, flags of any nation, government or noncommercial organization, religious symbols, or the display of street numbers.

SIGN, A-FRAME: A sign constructed of plywood or other light material which is not supported by any other materials, and is assembled in such a manner where two (2) sides are attached at the top so as to allow the sign to stand in an upright position.

SIGN, ANIMATED: A sign employing actual motion, the illusion of motion or light and/or color changes achieved through mechanical, electrical or electronic means; an automatic changeable copy sign, as defined in this section; or a manual changeable copy sign, as defined in this section.

SIGN, AREA OF: The area of a sign that is used for display purposes, excluding the minimum frame and supports. Only the largest face of any double sided (back to back) sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area. A sign is considered double sided when the signs are parallel or diverge from a common edge by an angle of not more than forty five degrees (45°). In relation to signs which do not have a frame or separate background, sign area shall be calculated on the basis of the area of the smallest, single continuous geometric figure large enough to frame the display.

SIGN, AWNING: A sign painted on, printed on, or attached flat against the surface of an awning.

SIGN, CHANGEABLE COPY (AUTOMATIC): A sign, including any portion of the sign, on which the copy or symbols change automatically on a lamp bank or through electrical, electronic, or mechanical means (such as time and temperature units).

SIGN, CHANGEABLE COPY (MANUAL): A sign on which copy is changed manually in the field through placement of letters or symbols on a panel mounted in or on a track system (such as reader boards with changeable letters).

SIGN, CONSTRUCTION: A temporary sign identifying an architect, contractor, subcontractor, financial institution, marketing firm and/or material supplier participating in construction on the property upon which the sign is located.

SIGN, DEVELOPMENT PROMOTIONAL: A sign announcing a future or ongoing project that has received approval for development (e.g., "coming soon", "an active adult community", etc.).

SIGN, ELECTRONIC READER: A sign used primarily as a billboard(s), or off premises sign which employs actual motion, the illusion of motion or light and/or color changes achieved through mechanical, electrical or electronic means, changeable copy sign, a sign or a portion thereof on which the copy or symbols change automatically through electrical or electronic means.

SIGN, FLASHING: A sign which contains an intermittent or sequential flashing light source used primarily to attract attention.

SIGN, FLAT: A sign erected parallel to and attached to the outside wall of a building and extending no more than twenty four inches (24") from said wall, with copy on the face side only.

SIGN, FREESTANDING POLE: A sign supported in the ground and not attached to any building.

SIGN, GROUND: A sign supported by a fixed, permanent frame support in the ground.

SIGN, ILLUMINATED: A sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign.

SIGN, MAINTENANCE OF: The cleaning, painting, repair or replacement of defective parts of a sign that does not alter the basic copy, design, or structure of a sign.

SIGN, MARQUEE: Any sign attached to or supported by a permanent canopy of rigid materials supported by and extending from the facade of a building.

SIGN, MONUMENT: A sign affixed to a base on the ground which is incorporated into the landscape or architectural design scheme of a development and displays the name of the development and/or the business name(s) and/or use(s) within the development. A sign with support posts no more than two feet (2') between the bottom of the sign area and the ground may be considered as a monument sign.

SIGN, NONCONFORMING: A sign or sign structure, or portion thereof, lawfully erected and existing at the effective date hereof, which does not comply with all regulations prescribed by this chapter and the zoning district in which it is located.

SIGN, OFF PREMISES: A sign which directs attention to a use, product, commodity or service not related to or located on the premises on which the sign is located, such as billboards or outdoor advertising.

SIGN, ON PREMISES: A sign which pertains to the use of the premises on which it is located.

SIGN, PORTABLE: Any sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently affixed to the ground or to a structure or building.

SIGN, PROJECTING: A sign attached to a building or canopy and extending in a nonparallel manner in whole or in part more than twelve inches (12") beyond any wall of the building or canopy.

SIGN, PROPERTY: A real estate sign related to the property upon which it is located and offering such property for sale, rent or lease.

SIGN, ROOF: Any sign erected over or on the roof of a building.

SIGN, SETBACK OF: The minimum distance which any portion of the sign or sign structure shall be located from any street right of way line and yard line coterminous with a street.

SIGN, SNIPE: A temporary sign or poster affixed to a tree, fence, utility pole, supports for another sign, etc.

SIGN, TEMPORARY: Any sign not constructed or intended for use longer than six (6) months.

SIGN, WALL: A sign that is painted either on a wall or its facing, and not having a sign frame or separation from the wall or facing.

SIGN, WINDOW: A sign installed inside a window, intended for external viewing. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003; amd. Ord. 2008-33, 11-12-2008; Ord. 2013-01, 1-23-2013)

   A.   Zoning Administrator To Enforce: The zoning administrator or a designated representative shall be responsible for the administration and enforcement of this chapter in determining that the permitting process, construction and design, and inspection process conform to this chapter and applicable ordinances or regulations.

   B.   Inspection And Certification: Upon completion of the sign, the building official or a designated representative shall inspect the sign and its structural and electrical connections to ensure compliance with all duly adopted codes and ordinances. The imprint or identifying insignia of the sign owner and sign erector of all off premises signs shall be in plain and public view.

   C.   Issuance Of Notices Or Violations: The zoning administrator or a designated representative may issue a written notice of violation to the person having charge or control or benefit of any sign found to be unsafe or dangerous or in violation of this chapter. Such official may also issue criminal citations and swear to information against violators.

   D.   Legal Action: The zoning administrator or a designated representative is hereby authorized to institute any appropriate action or proceeding in any case where any sign is illegally constructed, placed or modified, or in any case where any sign is used in violation of any city ordinance, including, but not limited to, this chapter and all other chapters of this title. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   Permit Required: No person shall paint, mark or write on, or post, or otherwise affix any handbill or sign to any public or private lands or structure without obtaining a permit from the city, unless otherwise exempted in this chapter. No person shall physically change or modify an existing sign (including off premises signs) that would convert or alter the existing sign to utilize new or additional features without obtaining a permit from the city, unless otherwise exempted in this chapter. No sign shall be located on or project over publicly owned land or inside existing street rights of way or planned rights of way as identified in the city transportation master plan. (Ord. 2013-06, 2-13-2013)

   B.   Illegal Posting: Any handbill or sign found posted upon any public property contrary to the provisions of this section may be removed by any city official. The person responsible for any such illegal posting shall be liable for the cost incurred in the removal thereof, and the city is authorized to effect the collection of the cost.

   C.   Application For Permit: Application for a permit to place or construct a sign in any location shall be submitted to the city on the city standard building permit form, along with the associated site plan and building elevation plans showing the locations, dimensions, materials, colors and copy of all existing and proposed signs. The zoning administrator or a designated representative may require a conditional use permit under the conditions of this chapter. All signs not specifically allowed herein shall require a conditional use permit issued in conformance with this title. Application for a conditional use permit shall be made according to the procedures outlined in chapter 17 of this title. The expiration date for the completion of such permit shall be one hundred eighty (180) days from the time the permit is obtained. The zoning administrator or the designated representative may consider the substantial effort toward completion in extending a permit, if the sign is not completed in the allotted time.

   D.   Permit Fees: All applications for permits filed with the city shall be assessed a planning review fee and a fee in accordance with the duly adopted building permit fee schedule of the city. If a conditional use permit is also required, the fee required by chapter 17 of this title shall also be assessed.

   E.   Illumination: An illuminated sign shall not be installed in such a manner which permits the light to penetrate beyond the property so as to constitute a nuisance. An illuminated sign alleged to be a nuisance by the neighboring property owners or tenants shall be subject to a public hearing before the planning commission as to the validity of the nuisance complaint. Such hearing shall be conducted in accordance with the public hearing procedures outlined in chapter 17 of this title. If the illuminated sign is determined to be a nuisance, it shall be subject to the city nuisance ordinance.

   F.   Indemnification: All persons involved in the maintenance, installation, alteration or relocation of signs in the city shall agree to hold harmless and indemnify the city, its officers, agents, and employees against any and all claims of negligence resulting from such work, insofar as this chapter has not specifically directed the placement of a sign. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

The placement, construction or modification of any sign within the city shall be in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   Street Or Driveway Intersection: No sign shall be permitted at a street or driveway intersection which would create a condition that is unsafe for vehicular or pedestrian traffic, or is inappropriate with respect to location, size, time or duration of display, or is maintained in a deteriorated condition.

   B.   Words Or Phrases Prohibited: Signs placed near an intersection shall not make use of the words "stop", "danger", "slow", or other words or phrases ordinarily identified with traffic direction that may cause confusion or interfere with the safety of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, nor shall the illumination of any sign impair the vision of those passing by.

   C.   Clear View Of Intersecting Streets: A minimum clearance of eight feet (8'), measured vertically from the grade of the intersecting streets, shall be maintained for any sign located within a triangular formation designated by the point of intersection of the property lines abutting the street intersection and points thirty feet (30') from the point of intersection along the property lines.

   D.   Abatement And Removal Of Unsafe Or Dangerous Signs: If an unsafe or dangerous sign is not repaired or made safe within five (5) working days after giving notice to the property owner, caretaker of the sign, or business owner or manager of the business located on the property, the zoning administrator or a designated representative may immediately abate and remove the sign, and the person having charge, control or benefit of any such sign shall pay to the city the costs incurred in such removal within thirty (30) calendar days after written notice is mailed to such person. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

A permanent sign for which a permit is required but not obtained, or otherwise in violation of this chapter, shall conform to the regulations of this chapter within thirty (30) days from the issuance of the zoning administrator's or designated representative's written notice to the property owner, caretaker of the sign, or business owner or manager of the business located on the property, or such sign shall be abated or removed. The person responsible for any such illegal posting and/or maintenance of said sign shall be liable for the cost incurred in the removal thereof, and the city is authorized to effect the collection of such costs. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

A temporary sign for which a permit is required but not obtained, or otherwise in violation of this chapter, shall conform to the regulations of this chapter within seventy two (72) hours from the issuance of the zoning administrator's or designated representative's notice to the property owner, caretaker of the sign, or business owner or manager of the business located on the property, or such sign shall be abated or removed. The person responsible for any such illegal posting and/or maintenance of said sign shall be liable for the cost incurred in the removal thereof, and the city is authorized to effect the collection of such costs.

   A.   On Private Property: A temporary sign posted upon private property may be installed or constructed only upon the issuance of a permit, or the sign shall be in violation of this chapter and subject to the prescribed penalties. Such sign shall conform to the regulations of this chapter within seventy two (72) hours from the issuance of the zoning administrator's or designated representative's notice to the property owner, caretaker of the sign, or business owner or manager of the business located on the property, or such sign shall be abated or removed, or legal action shall be initiated seeking such abatement or removal. The person responsible for any such illegal posting and/or maintenance of said sign shall be liable for the cost incurred in the removal thereof, and the city is authorized to effect the collection of such costs.

   B.   On Public Property: Any sign posted upon public property may be removed immediately by the city. Any such sign removed shall not be destroyed within a period less than thirty (30) days from the date of removal. In no case shall the failure to remove said sign constitute acquiescence or waiver by the city of the illegal placement of the sign. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

The zoning administrator or a designated representative shall require that each abandoned sign, nonmaintained sign or sign identifying a discontinued use be removed from the building or premises when such sign has not been repaired or put into use by the owner or caretaker of the sign within forty five (45) days of proper written notice of abandonment, nonmaintenance or discontinuance given by the zoning administrator or the designated representative to the owner or caretaker of the sign. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

Any person adversely affected by the action of the zoning administrator or the designated representative in the enforcement of this chapter may appeal to the board of adjustment as outlined in chapter 4, article A of this title. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

Any existing sign established in conformance with the adopted zoning regulations at the time of construction or placement, shall not be modified or repositioned on the property without first being brought into conformance with the most current city regulations governing signage. The term "modify" shall include the changing of a sign text or message to indicate a change in the approved use of the property or change in ownership. The term "modify" shall not include the changing of changeable text or copy on signs designed for such text or copy.

   A.   Vacancy Or Abandonment: A legal nonconforming sign may not regain its status after forty five (45) days of vacancy or abandonment, even if the original business reoccupies the property.

   B.   Special Exceptions:

      1.   An appeal of section 9-18-11 of this chapter may be heard by the board of adjustment which is authorized to grant a special exception to allow the retention, alteration, movement or expansion of a nonconforming sign; provided, that the board finds or is provided conclusive information indicating the following conditions are met:

         a.   The nonconforming sign poses an alternative equivalent means of meeting the intent of this chapter and the general plan.

         b.   The action will not impose a burden on other properties in the city beyond that posed by a conforming sign.

         c.   Approval will provide a forum for free expression or other articulable benefits to the public. The board of adjustment shall consider whether approval of such a sign creates an unfair competitive advantage to that business. A new business generally shall not qualify for a special exception for reuse of a nonconforming sign left by a previous business. Purely economic factors, such as the expense of removing or altering a nonconforming sign or of purchasing a new conforming sign, are not to be considered as reasons for the board to grant a special exception.

      2.   The board is empowered to attach reasonable requirements (including expiration and renewal requirements) with which the petitioner must comply as a condition of approval of a special exception. The duration of the special exception shall not be transferable. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

The following devices are prohibited in any zone in the city:

   A.   Abandoned signs.

   B.   A-frame signs.

   C.   Roof signs that are animated, that project above the roofline or parapet wall, and/or that have exposed mounting brackets and hardware.

   D.   Snipe signs.

   E.   Any truck, trailer or other vehicle conspicuously or regularly parked on or off premises, with an advertising message or logo displayed to attract attention to a business, product or promotion. A business or individual may be required to remove such vehicle if the zoning administrator or a designated representative determines that the vehicle is being utilized for advertising purposes.

   F.   Graffiti.

   G.   Spotlights or beacons directed into the night sky, except as part of an approved promotional period for temporary signs.

   H.   Off premises signs (including billboards), except as otherwise provided for in this chapter.

   I.   Portable signs, except as otherwise provided for in this chapter.

   J.   Signs attached to or on public property, except as otherwise provided for in this chapter. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   Private Property: The following signs shall be allowed without a sign permit on private property only:

      1.   Directional Or Instructional Signs: Signs which provide direction or instruction and are located entirely on premises and which do not in any way advertise a business. Such signs shall not exceed four (4) square feet in area or four feet (4') in height. These signs may identify restrooms, public telephones, walkways, or shall provide direction such as parking lot entrance and exit signs and those of a similar nature.

      2.   No Trespassing Or No Dumping Signs: "No trespassing" or "no dumping" signs may not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area for a single sign, or are limited to four (4) signs at four (4) square feet each for each lot, unless the zoning administrator or a designated representative finds more signs are required to prevent violations.

      3.   Neighborhood Identification Signs: A sign, masonry wall, landscaping or other similar materials or features may be combined to form a display for neighborhood identification; provided, that the legend of such sign or display shall consist of only the neighborhood name and/or address.

      4.   Symbols Or Insignia: Religious symbols, commemorative plaques of recognized historical agencies, or identification emblems of religious orders or historical agencies; provided, that no such sign shall exceed eight (8) square feet in area; and provided further, that all such signs be placed flat against the main building.

      5.   Institutional Uses: Churches, public schools, public utility companies, libraries, governmental buildings, parks, public golf courses, and similar uses are allowed one monument sign of thirty two (32) square feet. If the institution has more than one frontage and is located on an arterial street, then an additional sign of the same size is allowed.

      6.   Notice/Bulletin Boards: Notice/bulletin boards not over thirty two (32) square feet in area for medical, public, charitable or religious institutions, where the same are located on the premises of such institutions and are oriented solely to the interior of the property and are not used to direct exterior vehicular attention to any product or service of the institution.

      7.   Plaques: Plaques or nameplate signs, not more than two (2) square feet, which are fastened directly to the building or which commemorate a historical, cultural or artistic event, location or personality for which the department of public works has granted a written permit.

      8.   Flags: The flags, emblems or insignia of any nation or political subdivision. Corporate flags may not exceed twelve (12) square feet and may be flown in tandem with the state or national flag. Large flags flown in high wind may cause a noise nuisance and are subject to removal upon investigation.

      9.   Memorial Signs: Memorial signs or tablets with the names of buildings and date of erection cut into any masonry surface or inlaid so as to be part of the building. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

      10.   Changing Copy: Changes to a currently approved sign for which the exclusive proposed change or modification is limited to the actual copy (i.e., symbols and/or letters) on such sign. This exception does not extend to (i.e., this exception is not allowed for) animated signs. (Ord. 2013-07, 2-13-2013)

      11.   Holiday Decorations: Noncommercial signs of a primarily decorative nature, clearly incidental and customary and commonly associated with any national, local or religious holiday. Such signs may be of any type, number and area, and shall be contained entirely within the boundaries of the lot or premises on which they are erected, and should be placed so as to avoid confusion with authorized traffic lights and signals and shall conform to traffic safety standards. They shall be removed within a reasonable period after the holiday is over.

      12.   Political Or Campaign Signs: In addition to signage otherwise authorized by this chapter, political or campaign signs on behalf of candidates for public office or measures on election ballots are permitted as stated herein.

      13.   On Premises Real Estate Signs: One nonilluminated real estate sign per lot or premises, not to exceed six (6) square feet in sign area. Such signs must be removed ten (10) days following the sale, rent or lease of the property.

      14.   On Premises, Noncommercial Signs: Signs normally associated with residential uses which are not of a commercial nature shall not exceed four (4) square feet (e.g., house numbers, occupant names or other property identification).

      15.   Menu Boards And Fuel Price Signs: Menu boards incidental to drive-through restaurants, which are sized and directed to the drive-through lane, and fuel price signs as required by state and federal regulations.

   B.   Private Or Public Property: The following signs shall be allowed without a sign permit on private or public property:

      1.   Public Necessity Signs: Signs installed by a unit of the government for the control of traffic and other regulatory purposes, including street signs, danger and warning signs, railroad crossing signs, hospital signs, directional or warning signs for public service companies, utilities or institutions, or signs erected by or on the order of a public officer in the performance of public duty.

      2.   Temporary Signs For Official Use: Temporary signs posted by the city or other governmental agency, or their respective representatives acting on behalf of a governmental organization, when the sign serves as a public notice. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

Refer to the table entitled "regulation of signs by zone" found in section 9-18-21 of this chapter. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   Compliance With Building And Electrical Codes: All signs shall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of the most current versions of the building code and electrical code adopted by the city council.

   B.   Anchoring:

      1.   No sign shall be suspended by nonrigid attachments that will allow the sign to swing in the wind.

      2.   All freestanding signs shall have self-supporting structures erected on or permanently attached to concrete foundations.

      3.   All allowable portable signs on display shall be braced or secured to prevent motion.

   C.   Additional Construction Specifications:

      1.   No sign shall be erected, altered or maintained so as to obstruct any fire escape, required exit, window or door opening.

      2.   No sign shall be attached in any manner which will interfere with any ventilation opening.

      3.   Signs shall be located so as to maintain horizontal and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors in accordance with electrical code specifications. In no case shall a sign be installed closer than thirty six inches (36") horizontally or vertically from any conductor or wire. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   Placement Of Signs: Temporary signs shall not be placed in or over a public right of way, or otherwise impair the visibility of traffic, constitute a vehicular or pedestrian traffic hazard, or cause a public nuisance of any kind. No temporary sign shall be attached to a utility pole, fence or tree. They must be firmly secured to the building or ground.

   B.   Events Not Requiring A Permit: Temporary signs may be attached to existing permanent signs for grand openings or upon the change of ownership or name of the business. Such temporary signs shall only be allowed during the grand opening period or upon the change of ownership or name change period, with neither period of time extending beyond sixty (60) days. Off premises temporary signs are not allowed unless otherwise cited or regulated by this chapter.

   C.   Special Promotion Periods: Off premises temporary signs may be allowed by conditional use permit during officially recognized holidays or "going out of business/bankruptcy sales". Going out of business or bankruptcy sales promotions may last for a period of no more than ninety (90) days from the start of the promotional period. Holiday promotions shall be allowed without a permit for a period of five (5) days, including the holiday (i.e., 2 days before and after the holiday).

   D.   Other Events Or Additional Signage: Events intending to use temporary signs or additional signs which are not covered by this chapter may apply for a conditional use permit with the city. Application for a conditional use permit shall be made according to the procedures outlined in chapter 17 of this title. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

A common signage plan can improve the design aesthetics of shopping centers and neighboring properties. If the following provisions are met, a twenty five percent (25%) increase in total sign area for freestanding signs shall be allowed as an incentive to incorporate a common signage plan:

   A.   Increase In Sign Area: If the owner of two (2) or more contiguous lots or the owner of a single lot with more than one main building submit to the zoning administrator or a designated representative a common signage plan that conforms to the provisions contained herein, a twenty five percent (25%) increase in the maximum total freestanding sign area shall be allowed for the combined lots or buildings, to be allocated as the owner elects; provided, that the maximum sign area for any one freestanding sign be limited to five hundred (500) square feet. Additional freestanding sign area may be allowed for any one sign with conditional use permit approval in order to allow for adequate visibility for the traveling public.

   B.   Site Plan: The common signage plan shall include an accurate site plan of the lots that will be included in the plan (shopping centers or neighboring properties) showing the locations of buildings, parking lots, driveways and landscaped areas; the computation of the maximum total freestanding sign area allowed, the maximum number of freestanding signs allowed, and the maximum height allowed for the freestanding signs; and the locations of all proposed freestanding signs.

   C.   Consistency Standards: The common signage plan shall specify standards for consistency among all signs on the lots affected by the plan with regard to color scheme, lettering or graphic style, lighting, building sign locations, sign material and sign proportions.

   D.   Number: The number of freestanding signs shall be limited to a total of one for each street on which the lots included in the plan have frontage, and shall provide for shared or common usage of such signs. For lots zoned C-2 or C-3 within one thousand five hundred feet (1,500') of a freeway exit, one additional freestanding sign may be allowed if it is limited to a monument type of freestanding sign. All freestanding signs shall be separated by at least one hundred feet (100').

   E.   Other Restrictions: The common signage plan may contain such other restrictions as the owner of the lots may reasonably determine.

   F.   Signatures Required: The common signage plan shall be signed by all owners or their authorized agents in such form as the zoning administrator or the designated representative shall require.

   G.   Amendment To Plan: A common signage plan may be amended by submitting a new plan that conforms to all requirements of the common signage plan provisions then in effect.

   H.   Existing Nonconforming Signs: If any new or amended common signage plan is submitted for a property on which existing signs are located, it shall include a schedule for bringing into conformance, within three (3) years, all signs not conforming to the proposed amended plan or the requirements of the common signage plan provisions in effect on the date of submission.

   I.   Conformance With Plan Required: After the zoning administrator or the designated representative approves a common signage plan, no sign shall be erected, placed, painted or maintained, except in conformance with such plan, and such plan may be enforced in the same way as any provision of this chapter. In case of any conflict between the provisions of such a plan and any other provision of this chapter, this chapter shall control.

   J.   Plans Not Meeting Objective: The objective of a common signage plan is to prevent sign clutter by reducing the number of freestanding signs and/or having a common design theme for signs. If the zoning administrator or the designated representative determines that a plan does not meet that objective, the applicant shall either revise the plan or take the proposal to the planning commission for their consideration. If the plan is taken to the planning commission, they will be the approving body for the plan, but only after they determine that it meets the stated objective.

   K.   Other Signs: The size and placement of entrance and exit signs, awning signs, flat signs, wall signs, marquee signs, projecting signs, and roof signs are regulated by the provisions contained elsewhere in this chapter. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

   A.   Scope: Notwithstanding other provisions of this chapter, this section shall take precedence and imposes additional restrictions for signs within commercial and industrial zones on Telegraph Road from 300 East to 300 West, Washington Parkway from Telegraph Road to Commerce Way, and all along 300 East.

   B.   Special Standards: Except for signs along the cross streets of corner lots and along I-15, where they are at least two hundred fifty feet (250') from the rights of way of the above listed streets, freestanding signs are hereby limited to monument type signs with the following design standards:

      1.   Height: The maximum height of a sign shall not exceed ten feet (10') from adjacent natural grade.

      2.   Size: The size of a sign be limited to seventy five (75) square feet for properties with up to one hundred feet (100') of frontage on a public road. An additional one square foot of sign area may be allowed for each two feet (2') of public road frontage, up to a maximum size of one hundred (100) square feet per sign. If a common signage plan is approved, the size of a sign may be increased an additional twenty five percent (25%) in area, to a maximum size of one hundred twenty five (125) square feet. (Ord. 2015-10, 4-8-2015)

      3.   Location: Signs must be located on private property and not within any existing or planned public right of way as identified in the city transportation master plan. Signs shall not obstruct visibility at driveway entrances and exits, intersections and other points along the roadway. Signs in the downtown mixed use zone shall be outside of the front yard and street side yard setbacks and shall not interfere with any sidewalk or pedestrianway. (Ord. 2008-33, 11-12-2008; amd. Ord. 2009-14, 10-14-2009)

      4.   Multiple Signs: Each parcel of property or commercial complex may have one monument type sign. One additional monument type sign is permitted if the property has more than two hundred feet (200') of frontage on a public road. Where two (2) freestanding signs are constructed, they shall be separated by at least one hundred feet (100'). A third monument type sign is permitted for properties with more than four hundred feet (400') of frontage on a public road, and a fourth monument type sign is permitted for properties with six hundred feet (600') or more of public road frontage. All monument type signs shall be separated by at least one hundred feet (100').

      5.   Materials: Sign materials shall be similar to or compatible with the main structure which they identify. Signs shall be constructed predominantly of natural materials such as redwood, ceramic tile, masonry, stucco, stone, or materials which simulate the referenced materials. Letters may be illuminated and of a plastic, metal or similar material, including neon. Requests to use alternative materials may be approved by the zoning administrator or a designated representative. Flashing lights, rotating parts or other animation is not permitted. A changeable copy (automatic) sign or promotional board is permitted when part of a larger sign.

      6.   Background: The sign background shall be finished in subdued earth tone colors. "Earth tones" may be defined in this context to include the full spectrum of soil and clay colors. Acceptable spectrums include off whites to deep browns and reddish browns, grays, grayish greens to dark greens, and black. Letters shall provide sufficient contrast to be easily legible. Overall color scheme shall complement the color scheme of the main structure. Registered national trademarks are permitted as part of the sign. Bright "Day-Glo" or fluorescent colors are prohibited.

      7.   Variances: In accordance with chapter 4, article A of this title, the board of adjustment is authorized to hear requests for variances from these special standards.

      8.   Other Signs: Entrance and exit signs, awning signs, flat signs, wall signs, marquee signs, projecting signs, and roof signs are permitted subject to the provisions contained elsewhere in this chapter. (Ord. 2003-05, 3-12-2003)

 

Notes:

   1.    The promotional board portion of an approved sign may also contain copy that does not specifically identify the development or use.

   2.    Additional height may be allowed with conditional use permit approval for freestanding signs within 1,500 feet of a freeway exit, or off premises signs along the defined I-15 corridor, if the freeway grade restricts adequate visibility for the traveling public.

   3.    Sections 9-18-19 and 9-18-20 of this chapter contain additional provisions for a common signage plan and special standards for commercial signs on Telegraph Road, Washington Parkway, and 300 East.

   4.    Special standards for animated signs will be as follows:

      a.    Animated signs shall not have flashing, spinning or rotating script or pictures.

      b.    Animated signs shall come equipped with automatic dimming technology that automatically adjusts the sign's brightness in direct correlation with the ambient light conditions.

      c.    No animated sign shall exceed a brightness level of 0.3 foot-candle above the ambient light as measured using a foot-candle (lux) meter at a preset distance depending on sign area. The measurement distance shall be calculated with the following formula:

The square root of the product of the sign area and 100 (example, a sign 64 square feet in size would have a measured distance of 80 feet, which is the square root of (64 x 100)).

      d.    The change of message copy shall be limited to a minimum of 8 seconds, or in accordance with any present state laws regulating the time limit of message copy.

      e.    All other federal, state and city laws shall be complied with as they pertain to animated signs.

   5.    Special standards for off premises electronic reader signs will be as follows:

      a.    Off premises electronic reader signs shall not be located any closer than 200 feet to any residential structure.

      b.    Off premises electronic reader signs shall not be located any closer than 2,640 feet of any other electronic reader sign on either side of I-15.

      c.    The electronic reader sign shall come equipped with automatic dimming technology that automatically adjusts the sign's brightness in direct correlation with the ambient light conditions.

      d.    No electronic reader sign shall exceed a brightness level of 0.3 foot-candle above ambient light as measured using a foot-candle (lux) meter at a preset distance depending on sign area. The measurement distance shall be calculated with the following formula:

The square root of the product of the sign area and 100 (example, a sign 672 square feet in size would have a measured distance of 259 feet, which is the square root of (672 x 100)).

      e.    All other federal, state and city laws are complied with as it pertains to electronic reader signs.

(Ord. 2013-02, 1-23-2013; amd. Ord. 2015-10, 4-8-2015)