The sign standards are enacted for the following purposes:

A.

To protect and enhance the character, property values, and stability of new and existing residential neighborhoods as well as commercial and industrial districts in the City.

B.

To establish a regulatory framework for the use of signs as an adjunct to economic and social activities of the residents, institutions, and businesses of the community.

C.

To reduce sign clutter and to eliminate the potential for the distraction of motorists and the degradation of the appearance of the community that results from an excessive number of signs.

D.

To protect aesthetic values and to establish and maintain standards of community appearance with respect to signs, canopies, and awnings.

E.

To provide standards and procedures for the removal, elimination, or relocation of signs that fail to conform to those standards as established herein.

F.

To establish an administrative framework for the enforcement of the standards and regulations established herein.

The standards, regulations, and procedures established by this Ordinance apply to all signs erected, displayed, or maintained in the City of Waukegan, including all exterior signs and all interior signs located in windows, doorways, or other building openings which are clearly visible from the building exterior, except for exempt signs as provided in Section 12.02.J (Exemptions).

A.

Permit Required. All signs, with the exception of exempt signs, require a permit.

B.

Measurement

1.

Lot Frontage. Calculation of allowed total sign area or of individual sign area for a zoning lot is based on the lineal feet of street frontage of the lot, or in the case of uses that occupy more than one lot, the combined street frontage of all lots occupied by the use.

2.

Multiple Uses. Where a lot is occupied by more than one use and the uses occupy the same frontage, the primary signage permitted for each use is calculated based on the building frontage occupied by such uses.

3.

Corner Lots. In the case of corner lots or lots having more than one street frontage, the regulations established below apply separately to each street frontage so that the total sign area, individual sign area, and setbacks will be applied independently for each street upon which the lot fronts.

4.

Absent Frontage. In the case of a zoning lot or other business premises however defined which has no direct street frontage, the allowed total sign area for that business premises is based on the width of the zoning lot or premises occupied by the use measured along a line generally parallel to the closest public street to which the zoning lot or premises has access.

C.

Sign Area

1.

Applicability. Sign area for all signs, except those signs specifically limited in size by this Code, is set forth in Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District.

2.

Total Area. The total area of all primary signs permitted on a zoning lot may not exceed the number of square feet permitted for each lineal foot of frontage as set forth in Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District multiplied by the actual street frontage of the lot.

3.

Maximum sign area. The maximum permitted sign area in any district is 144 square feet, except as provided in Section 12.04 (Primary Signs).

D.

Number of Signs

1.

Residential Zoning Districts. See Section 12.05 (Signs in Residential Districts).

2.

Non-Residential Zoning Districts.

a.

The total number of primary signs of any type located on a zoning lot may not exceed the number shown in the 'total' column Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District; and the total number of ground signs on a zoning lot may not exceed the number shown for that type in Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District.

b.

Notwithstanding the requirements shown in Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District, multi-tenant non-residential buildings are restricted to one ground sign for every 500 feet or fractional part thereof of frontage and one wall sign per use for each street frontage.

c.

Notwithstanding the requirements shown in Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District, single uses occupying multiple contiguous zoning lots are limited to the total number of signs that would be allowed on a single zoning lot in that same zoning district.

E.

Sign Location and Setbacks

1.

Conservation, residential, and lakefront districts. All primary ground signs must be set back no less than five feet from the lot lines in districts where setbacks are required.

2.

Civic, business, and industrial districts. All primary signs in civic, business, and industrial districts with required front yard setbacks and required yards adjoining streets must be set back no less than five feet from the lot line. In districts in which there is no required front yard setback or yard adjoining a street, primary ground signs may be located up to the lot line provided that no part of the sign obstructs the public right-of-way. In addition to these regulations, the requirements of Section 12.04 (Primary Signs) must also be met.

3.

No sign may be placed on the public right-of-way without first entering into a license agreement with the public entity that has jurisdiction over the right-of-way.

F.

Sign Height. Primary ground signs may not exceed the height limitations shown in Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District for the zoning district in which the sign is located.

G.

Sign Maintenance. All signs must be maintained in a safe, legible, and good condition.

1.

Safety. All signs must be maintained to the same structural standards pursuant to which they were approved or, in the case of nonconforming signs, the standard by which they were originally approved. All metal parts which are subject to rust or corrosion must be painted at all times. All anchors and other fastenings must be maintained in a secure and functioning condition capable of sustaining the loads for which they were designed. All sign faces must be smooth and free from protruding nails, tacks, wires, splinters, and other hazards.

2.

Legibility. All signs must be maintained in a legible condition. Painted signs must be repainted at such times as the deterioration of the paint results in illegibility or disfiguration.

3.

Condition. All glass panes or panes of other materials that comprise the sign face must be immediately replaced if broken. All electrical components, switches, lamps, relays, fuses, and similar devices must be maintained in good working order.

H.

Nonconforming Signs. Refer to Section 6.06 (Nonconforming Site Elements).

I.

Abandoned Signs

1.

The following signs are deemed abandoned:

a.

Any sign that is located on property that becomes vacant, has no occupying business, or is unoccupied, and that remains as such for a period of 30 days.

b.

Any sign, wherever located, that refers to a business, property, location, or other activity that has ceased operations for a period of 30 days.

c.

Any sign for which a permit or license fee is charged and where the owner of such sign fails to obtain such permit or license no later than 60 days after inspection and proper notification.

d.

Any sign announcing an event or the date or dates of an event which has passed, with the exception of political campaign signs.

e.

Any dilapidated, deteriorated, unreadable, illegible, structurally unsound, or unsafe sign.

2.

Removal of Abandoned Signs. The owner of any property upon which an abandoned sign is located is responsible for removing such sign either immediately or within the time period otherwise established in this section or by the Building Commissioner. Removal of an abandoned sign must include the removal of the entire sign including the sign face, supporting structure and structural trim. Where the owner of the property on which an abandoned sign is located fails to remove such sign in a timely manner, the Building Commissioner may remove such sign. Any expense directly incurred in the removal of such sign will be charged to the owner of the property. Where the owner fails to pay such costs to the City within 30 days, the City may file a lien upon the property for the purpose of recovering all reasonable costs associated with the removal of the sign.

J.

Exemptions. The provisions and regulations of this Ordinance do not apply to the following signs provided, however, that such signs are subject to the Waukegan Electrical Code, the regulations governing the removal of unsafe and unlawful signs, and the regulations herein.

1.

Traffic control signs, warning signs and temporary construction and routing signs erected, maintained, or operated by a governmental agency or its contracted agent in conformance with the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

2.

Signs authorized and erected by the City of Waukegan, including public notices posted by public officials or employees in the performance of their duties.

3.

Warning signs placed by utility companies or others in areas of danger that are accessible to the public.

4.

Identification tags, labels, plaques, and signs used by utility companies and other organizations to identify fixed operating equipment and for similar purposes.

5.

Cornerstones.

6.

Seasonal decorations, including items of a primarily decorative nature associated with national, local, or religious holidays. Such seasonal decorations visible from the public right-of-way must be removed no later than 30 days after the event.

7.

Signs on vehicles provided such signs are not relocatable signs as regulated by this Ordinance and provided further that such vehicles are fully operable and licensed by the State of Illinois and are being operated in normal and customary fashion. Such signs are limited by the provisions of 12.11 (Prohibited Signs).

8.

Flag displays.

9.

Non-Commercial Messaging Signs, subject to the following conditions:

a.

Limited to the following dimensions:

i.

A maximum surface area of six square feet per sign face; and

ii.

A maximum height of four feet.

b.

May not incorporate animated or automatically changing graphics.

c.

May not be internally or externally illuminated.

d.

Must be a removable sign that is not permanently affixed, applied, or painted on a wall or other surface or structure, or permanently secured into the ground with a concrete foundation on the premises; and

e.

Must be maintained in a state of good repair.

f.

Non-commercial message signs may not be located closer than six (6) feet to any lot line on any non-residentially zoned property.

K.

Sign Removal. Signs required to be removed by this Ordinance must be removed in accordance with the following regulations:

1.

The owner of the property upon which a sign is located is responsible for removing such sign as required by this Ordinance, except that where a sign is a leased sign being maintained under the terms of a current lease, it is the joint responsibility of the owner of the zoning lot that the sign is on and lessor of the same sign to remove. In any case in which a sign has been removed by the City of Waukegan or by a private contractor at the direction of the City of Waukegan in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance, any cost directly incurred in the removal of the sign will be charged to the owner of the property. If the owner fails to pay such costs to the City within 30 days, then the City may file a lien upon the property for the purpose of recovering all reasonable costs associated with the removal of the sign.

2.

Abandoned signs must be removed in accordance with the provisions of Section 12.02.I (Abandoned Signs) and this Section.

3.

Prohibited signs and other signs erected subsequent to the passage of this Ordinance and found to be in violation of this Ordinance must be removed by the owner of such sign no later than 30 days after receiving notice of such violations. If after 30 days such sign has not been removed, the City may remove it as provided in this section.

4.

Any permitted or prohibited sign that becomes a danger to the public because of damage to or deterioration of the structure must be removed immediately. Where the owner cannot be immediately contacted, the City may order such sign removed as provided in this Section.

Signs are classified in the following groups:

A.

Primary Signs. Primary signs include all permanent signs for which this Ordinance establishes restrictions upon the area of the sign or upon the total area of the signage to be displayed upon a lot. Primary signs include all business identification and on-premises advertising signs. Ground signs, wall signs, monument signs, and all those specifically listed in Section 12.05 (Primary Signs).

B.

Accessory Signs. All other permanent signs are considered accessory signs including on-site directional signs for vehicles and pedestrians, parking restrictions, warning, and similar signs. Any accessory sign that exceeds the size limitations established by this Ordinance for such signs or any accessory sign that bears a logotype, corporation symbol, or similar device in excess of the standards established for such names is considered a primary sign and part of the regulated area of the signage, as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

C.

Temporary Signs. A temporary sign is any sign irrespective of the type of sign or the materials used for its construction which is restricted by the terms of this Ordinance as to the length of time that it may be erected, maintained, used, or displayed. In addition, the term "temporary sign" includes any sign constructed of temporary, unsubstantial, or inherently fragile materials such as paper, cardboard, water soluble paints, and other such materials. Temporary signs in a window or attached to the façade may not exceed the size and coverage requirements Section 12.09 (Temporary Signs).

The following regulations govern the size, location, design, and maintenance of primary signs. All Primary signs must be constructed out of sturdy materials intended for extended display. Non-permanent materials such as paper, poster board, or similar materials are not suitable for use as primary signs.

A.

Awning Signs

1.

Projection. Awnings may project a maximum of 36 inches from the façade. Projection depth must match the existing adjacent awnings provided they comply with the acceptable minimum projection. Awnings must be placed at a minimum height of eight feet above the sidewalk. If awnings are lit, it must be from an outside source. No backlit awnings are allowed.

2.

Forms. Awning forms are to conform to the general shape of the opening. Arched openings are to receive half round domed awnings, whereas rectangular openings are to receive rectangular, gently sloping, planar forms with closed ends. Valances may be fixed or loose. Bubble awnings are prohibited. All awnings located on the same building must be the same form.

3.

Mounting. Awnings may be fixed or retractable. Retractable awnings must be kept either in the fully projected position or the fully closed position. Fixed awnings must have concealed rigid metal frames. Retractable awnings must have a canopy cover and automatic retractable rollers mounted to the building. Under panels are discouraged. Frames must be painted to match or complement the color of the awning cover material or its underside.

4.

Materials. Awning material must be taut, not relaxed. Awning materials may include matte finish painted army duck, vinyl-coated cotton, acrylic-coated polyester, and vinyl-coated polyester or cotton and solution-dyed acrylic. All awnings are restricted to cutout lettering, heat color-transfer, pressure sensitive vinyl films, or sewn appliqué signs on the apron only. All awnings located on the same building must be comprised of the same material and be adorned with the same lettering.

5.

Colors. Awning and banner colors must take into account the color selection of the surrounding construction materials, buildings, signs, awning, of the retailer/user and district. All awnings located on the same building must be the same color. Colors must enhance and complement the building.

6.

Compliance. All new or replacement awnings and banners must comply with the City's Code of Ordinances.

B.

Blade or Projecting Signs

1.

Size. The maximum area of a single blade sign is six square feet and may not exceed four inches in depth.

2.

Location. The lowest point of a projecting sign that hangs over a sidewalk, plaza, or pedestrian walkway must be at least eight feet above the grade of the adjacent sidewalk or pedestrian walkway. Blade signs may not extend more than three feet from the façade. Blade signs may only be mounted above the ground floor windows near building entrances. No portion of a blade sign may extend above the roof line of the structure. Only one blade sign is allowed per leased tenant space. Blade signs may only be externally illuminated, if lit. Blade signs may not be illuminated by floodlights or spotlights.

C.

Changeable Copy Signs

1.

Location. Changeable copy signs are permitted as or as part of any permitted wall sign or ground sign subject to the regulations established for such signs.

2.

Maintenance. In addition to the general requirements for sign maintenance, all changeable copy signs must bear a legible message, other suitable display, or be left blank. Electronic display screens must be left blank and unlighted when not in use. Any changeable copy sign including an electronic display screen or interior lighting in which the electrical or lighting components are operating in an erratic, broken, or damaged fashion must be turned off or removed.

D.

Directory Sign

1.

Location

a.

In districts for which there is no required front yard, directories may be located at the property line. In all other areas, directory signs must be set back at least five feet from the property line.

b.

There may be no more than one directory sign for each street that the lot or building fronts upon, except that where a building adjoins one or more additional streets, one additional directory sign may be permitted for each such street face that contains a point of public access to the building.

c.

Additional directory signs may be erected when located within the building lines established for the lot upon which they are located, provided that such additional directory signs are counted as primary signs.

2.

Other Requirements. All directory signs must meet the requirements for changeable signs in accordance with Section 12.04.C (Changeable Copy Signs).

E.

Drive-Through Sign

1.

Each drive through lane is allowed one menu display that is a maximum of 60 square feet in area and a maximum of eight feet in height from grade. Light from the menu board must be contained to the drive through lane only.

2.

Each drive through lane may include one order preview display comprised of up to 2.5 square feet in addition to the menu display.

3.

Uses that are not restaurants are allowed one drive through lane indicator sign display per lane. Each sign is comprised of up to three square feet in area depicting information regarding lane availability.

F.

Electronic Message Centers

1.

Minimum Lot Width and Area Requirements. Electronic message centers are permitted on zoning lots that have at least 250 feet of frontage and 2.5 acres of lot area. Electronic message centers are permitted in all lots in the E District.

2.

Location. Only one electronic message center is permitted per zoning lot. No electronic message center may be located within 250 feet of any residential district and must be at least fifteen feet from the property line.

3.

Size. The electronic message center in its entirety is limited to 50 percent of a sign's area, or 40 square feet, whichever is less.

4.

Illumination. The message area of an electronic message center may be illuminated by white incandescent lamps, LEDs (light-emitting diodes) or magnetic discs. Whatever the light source, undue brightness is prohibited.

a.

For the purpose of enforcing this provision, "undue brightness" will be construed to mean illumination of a white portion of the sign in excess of 0.3 foot candles above ambient light levels.

b.

At least 30 minutes past sunset, and with the electronic display either turned off, showing all black copy, or blocked, a foot candle meter will be used to record the area ambient light level. An ambient reading will be taken with the meter aimed directly at the electronic display at a distance of 100 feet. To establish the illumination level, the electronic display will be turned on to show all white copy and a second reading taken. If the difference between the readings is 0.3 foot candles or less, the brightness is properly adjusted. To ensure compliance with this provision, the sign must have an automatic phased proportional dimmer, which must be used to reduce nighttime brightness levels (compared to daytime brightness levels). Further, prior to the issuance of a permit for an electronic message center, the applicant must provide written certification from the sign manufacturer that the light intensity has been factory preset not to exceed the levels specified above, and the intensity level is protected from end- user manipulation by password-protected software or other method as deemed appropriate by the Zoning Administrator.

c.

At the request of the City, electronic message center users must reduce the level of brightness if determined by the City that the light levels are greater than the maximum permitted level as specified in this Section.

d.

Flashing lights, scrolling lights, and rotating of lights around the sign so as to draw attention and cause distraction are prohibited. Each message displayed on an electric message center must be static or depicted for a minimum of five seconds.

e.

Display of videos is prohibited.

G.

Ground Signs

1.

Design. The primary supporting structure (uprights) of a ground sign must be constructed from circular, square, or rectangular sections of wood, brick, metal, stone, or other material approved by the Building Commissioner. All secondary supporting members, braces, guys, structural iron, flanges, and electrical components must be concealed. All exposed structural materials or covering materials must have a permanent finish and must be maintained in a safe condition as provided in Section 12.02.G (Sign Maintenance).

2.

Landscaping. The base of any vertical ground sign must be landscaped with a planting of low evergreen shrubs or other decorative screening for the foundation but not to exceed four feet in height. The landscaped area must be equal to two square feet for every square foot of sign face. Poles for ground signs are not counted towards required area.

3.

Individual sign area. See Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District. The maximum sign area is 144 square feet. For two-sided signs with identical sign faces, only one side of the sign counts towards the total area. For two-sided signs with different sign faces, both sides count towards total area. Poles for ground signs are not counted towards total area.

4.

Height. The maximum height of a ground sign must conform to Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District, and no part of the sign is allowed higher than that shown in above the normal elevation of the edge of the pavement at a point immediately opposite the sign, whichever is higher. Any berm or other fill placed at the base of the sign is not considered normal elevation of the ground.

5.

Location. Ground signs must be located within the property lines. No part of the sign is allowed to overhang the public right-of-way or any adjoining property. In all conservation and residential districts, ground signs must be set back five feet from the public right-of-way. A ground sign may not be located within 100 feet of any other ground sign on the same lot.

6.

Visibility at Intersections.

a.

Location. In any yard adjoining the intersection of street, alleys or driveways, a ground sign may only be designed, located, and oriented in a manner that does not obstruct the clear view of motorists and pedestrians approaching the intersection. Such ground sign may only be 30 inches in height or less or the ground sign must be set back from the intersection in a manner that does not obstruct the view of the intersection for both motorists and pedestrians. Refer to Section 10.06.A.6 (Visibility).

b.

Exception. An exception may be permitted by the Zoning Administrator where they find that a ground sign supported by a structure having a width of 18 inches, when measured at the widest point, or less and the lowest point of the sign at least ten feet above grade will not obscure vision at the intersection.

H.

Marquee Signs

1.

The roofs of marquees may be opaque, translucent, or transparent. The roof of a marquee may not display any sign or other advertising device.

2.

Location. A marquee may be constructed over that portion of the public right-of-way that is a sidewalk. No marquee may extend beyond the curb line of the street. The bottom of a marquee must be no less than ten feet above the sidewalk. No marquee may extend above the sill line of windows on the second story of a building to which it is attached or above the cornice line of a one-story building.

3.

Erection. A marquee must be supported entirely by the building to which it is attached and may not be attached to the ground by poles, beams, or other means of ground-mounted supports.

4.

Signs on Marquees. Signs on marquees are measured signs and are subject to the regulations for sign area established in Table 12.02-01 Sign Regulations by District. No sign is allowed to be located on the roof of a marquee nor be suspended from a marquee so as to have a clearance of less than ten feet.

I.

Monument Sign

1.

Base Height. The maximum height of the base of a monument sign is two feet above grade.

2.

Total Height. The maximum height of a monument sign is five feet from grade.

3.

Size. The maximum area of a monument sign, inclusive of the base, is 30 square feet.

4.

Design. A monument sign must include a supporting base composed of brick, architecturally treated wood or other similar materials complimented by landscaping.

5.

Landscaping. Monument signs must be installed and maintained with foundation landscaping comprised of low evergreen shrubs or other decorative screening equal to two square feet for every one square foot of sign face and not exceeding four feet in height.

J.

Painted Signs

1.

Size. Painted signs may not exceed 20 percent of the total façade onto which they are applied.

2.

Design. Painted signs may not include any element that mimics or imitates an official traffic control device or marking or would be confused with the same. The use of neon colors or traffic yellow must be minimized.

K.

Portable Signs

1.

Size. Portable signs must be pedestrian-scale.

2.

Design. Portable signs may not be permanently affixed or weighted to the ground and may not be able to be towed or hitched to vehicle. Portable signs may include a changeable element such as chalkboards or changeable copy signs in accordance with Section 12.05.C (Changeable Copy Signs).

3.

Location. Portable signs placed on the pedestrian right-of-way must maintain four feet width on the pathway that is closest to the building and flat to meet Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility guidelines.

4.

Time of Display. Portable signs may only be on display during regular hours of operation and must otherwise be stored inside the building.

L.

Wall Signs

1.

Size. The maximum size of a wall sign is 10 percent of the total façade on which the wall sign is to be placed or 144 square feet, whichever is less.

2.

Location.

a.

Individual components of a wall sign may not project more than one foot from the wall to which it is attached. Cabinet signs and box signs are prohibited.

b.

A wall sign may not cover partially or wholly any wall opening.

c.

A wall sign may not project beyond the ends of a wall to which it is attached or project above the lowest point of the eaves or the cornice line or cap of the wall to which it is attached.

d.

Wall signs may not be affixed to secondary elevations without a defined sign band and only if the sign is facing a designated public right-of-way.

3.

Any wall sign that projects into or overhangs the public right-of-way or other public property by a distance of one foot or less must be located so that the lowest point of the sign or its supporting members are no less than ten feet above the sidewalk or above grade at the point where the sign is located; provided, however, that name plates, addresses, architectural signs and accessory signs projecting one inch or less may be located a lesser height.

4.

Wall signs may not in any way obstruct fire access from any door, window, or fire escape.

M.

Window Signs

1.

Size. The maximum total measured window sign area is 20 percent of the window in which the sign is displayed, including accessory window signs, if any.

2.

Location. Window signs may not obscure entry areas or prevent the general public or public safety personnel from viewing interior or exterior activity of the premises.

3.

Design. Any neon borders of a wall sign must be protected by a clear plexiglass cover that will prevent contact with the neon tube and/or the splices made to the neon tube. The plexiglass shield must be placed away from the neon tube and/or splices to provide for ventilation and to prevent the buildup of heat. All neon transformers and wiring must be adequately supported and installed in a good and workmanlike manner and be secure from the public.

N.

Yard Signs

1.

Size. The maximum total measured sign area is eight square feet in the CR, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, L1, L2, and L3 districts and 32 square feet in all other districts.

2.

Design. A yard sign may consist of a sign face of wood, metal, or other material. The surrounding trim and supporting uprights and braces of the yard sign must be securely anchored in the ground. The top of the supporting uprights of the yard sign may be no more than six feet off the ground.

3.

Location. For unimproved commercial property, a yard sign may only be located in the buildable area of the lot. For all other non-commercial property, a yard sign may be located in the same manner as any other permitted wall sign or ground sign, provided it is set back at least four feet from the right-of-way in any required yard and is displayed only from the time of offering until one week after closing or the execution of a lease.

(Ord. No. 25-O-03, § 2(Exh. A), 1-6-25)

Signs that are allowed in residential zoning districts must conform to the requirements for measured signs. Primary signs are prohibited in residential districts except for the following:

A.

Legal nonconforming signs to the extent of the legal nonconformity.

B.

On-premises identification signs for educational institutions, parks and playgrounds, and religious institutions.

C.

Development signs and multi-unit dwelling on-premises identification signs.

A.

Applicability. In addition to regulations for primary, accessory, and temporary signs located elsewhere, signs erected in the downtown and lakefront districts are subject to additional regulations. Primary signs may not be erected or maintained on any lot in excess of the limitations established in this section regarding size, type, location, number, and total area of signs for a lot's respective zoning district without obtaining a variance from the Planning and Zoning Commission in the manner set forth in Section 4.04 (Variances). Accessory signs are permitted in addition to the limitations placed on measured signs in accordance with the provisions of 12.08 (Accessory Signs). Temporary signs are permitted in addition to the limitations placed on primary signs and for a specific period of time in accordance with the provision of Section 12.09 (Temporary Signs).

B.

Sign Design. Signs in the downtown and lakefront districts must reflect the character of the building style. There are several prominent sign styles that are appropriate: surface-mounted, pin-mounted signs, interior, and decal signs.

1.

General sign standards. Sign materials are limited to painted wood, stained brick, architectural glass, and metal.

2.

Sign color is to be selected to harmonize with the building upon which it is mounted and the immediately adjacent structures. Lettering color can be unique to the trade dress of the business or operator being promoted.

3.

Natural metal sign and plaque material such as brushed bronze, antique bronze, aluminum, stainless steel, and painted cast iron or similarly appearing materials are preferred. Highly reflective metallic signs are not allowed.

4.

Signs may be backlit or lit by marquee or spot lighting. Internally lit cabinet and box signs (with a lettered glass panel) as well as neon lighting are strictly prohibited.

5.

Spot lighting must be minimal and unobtrusive and may not be visible from any street, sidewalk, or dwelling.

6.

The majority of the signs will be mounted within the building's sign band, defined as the horizontal wall area immediately over the storefront and below the second-floor line.

C.

Sign Area and Height Restrictions. The measured sign area of any individual wall sign located in the downtown and lakefront districts may not exceed the requirements set forth below for each type of sign.

1.

Surface-Mounted Commercial Signs. These signs are either fabricated from painted wood or cast metal plaques and are to be mounted within the sign band or within the storefront transom. The height of the sign is restricted to 80 percent of the area of the sign band or 18 inches, whichever is less. The length of the lettering must be contained within 80 percent of the length of the sign band. Surface-mounted signs are not permitted on secondary elevations without a defined sign band and only if the sign is facing a designated public right-of-way.

2.

Pin-Mounted Commercial Signs. These signs consist of channel, reverse channel, cast metal and flat cut metal letters mounted above the storefront in the masonry sign band or suspended in front of the storefront at the transom or recessed entry. The size of the lettering is restricted so that the height of the letters does not exceed 80 percent of the height of the sign band or 18 inches, whichever is less. The length of the lettering is to be contained within 80 percent of the length of the sign band. Pin-mounted signs are not permitted on secondary elevations without a defined sign band and only if it is facing a designated public right-of-way.

3.

Interior Signs. Interior signs, floating independently, are set one foot or less behind the glass either at the transom or at the sill of the storefront and are lit from a separate source. This sign must comply with the size limitations of decal signs as referenced below.

4.

Window Signs. signs. Window signs can be mounted within the transom as the main storefront window area so as not to interfere with interior or exterior activity at the location. The window sign area at the lower section of the window can occupy up to 20 percent of the glass area of a single pane. Text is measured as the whole area from the top of the letters to the bottom of the letters for the whole width of each text line. Signs mounted at the transom are restricted to 50 percent of the area of the transom.

A.

Applicability. Signs erected on lots in the Entertainment District are granted the following exceptions from this Ordinance.

B.

Permitted Sign Types. Signs other than those listed elsewhere in this Ordinance that are artistic, architectural, or unique in nature may be allowed through site plan review. Entertainment District signs may not cast bright light upon any parcel located in a residential district or cast a strobe effect or any other high intensity light, which is emitted on a periodic or intermittent basis. Brightness of illuminated signs must be adjusted at the request of the City of Waukegan.

A.

General Regulations. Accessory signs as defined in Section 12.03 (Sign Classification) may only be erected and maintained only in conformance with the following regulations:

1.

Permits and Fees. Permits are required and fees are charged for the erection and maintenance of accessory signs. Any electrical accessory signs are subject to the Waukegan Electrical Code.

2.

Size of Accessory Signs. Any accessory sign may not exceed four square feet of measured sign area.

3.

Height. Accessory signs may not exceed a height of four feet.

4.

Accessory signs must conform to the requirements established for a clear view of intersections as provided in Section 8.05.D (Obstruction of Visibility Prohibited).

B.

Regulations for Particular Accessory Signs

1.

Name Plates. Signs displaying the name of the occupant, the business or profession, and the street name and number may be displayed near the entrance to the building, provided such sign does not exceed a measured area of two square feet.

2.

Warning Signs. Warning signs may not exceed two square feet of measured sign area, unless otherwise required by local, state, or federal law.

A.

General Regulations

1.

Permits and Fees. Permits are required and fees are charged for the erection and maintenance of a temporary sign. Any electrical temporary signs are subject to the Waukegan Electrical Code.

2.

Size of Signs. The measured sign area of temporary signs, the number of such signs, or the aggregate area of such signs may not exceed one sign or four square feet, unless otherwise specified in Section 12.09.C (Regulations for Particular Temporary Signs).

3.

Location of Signs. Unless otherwise specified in in this section, no temporary sign is allowed in the public right-of-way, unless the owner has entered into a license agreement with the public entity that has jurisdiction over the right-of-way, or in any required yard within one foot of the public right-of-way per foot of sign height, but no less than three feet from the right-of-way.

4.

Time of Display. The erection and maintenance of all temporary signs is limited to 30 days, unless otherwise established by this Ordinance.

5.

Identification required. The name and address of the owner or person displaying any temporary sign must appear on either the face or back of the sign except for temporary identification signs in which the name of the owner is part of the message. All temporary signs for which a specific date for their erection and removal has been established by permit, or otherwise, must display those dates on the sign.

B.

Removal of Temporary Signs. All temporary signs must be removed by the owner as follows:

1.

Upon the expiration of the permit.

2.

Upon the expiration of the time period established in this section.

3.

When any such sign becomes damaged, deteriorated, or illegible.

4.

Any temporary sign that does not contain the identification required above, is displayed before or after the time period established by permit, or otherwise does not display the time period as provided above may be immediately removed by the Building Commissioner.

C.

Regulations for Particular Temporary Signs

1.

Construction Signs. One sign identifying a construction project, the owner, architect, general contractor, sub-contractors, financiers, and other information relating to a construction project may be erected on one or more lots where construction activity is currently being conducted and building permits have been issued in accordance with the following:

a.

Size. Not to exceed 64 square feet.

b.

Locations. Within the property lines subject to the requirements for safety and clear view of intersections.

c.

Height. Not to exceed 14 feet.

d.

Display Period. From two weeks before groundbreaking until issuance of the occupancy certificate for the building or structure being constructed.

e.

Permit Exemption. Temporary construction signs are not required to obtain a permit of pay a permit fee.

2.

Point-of-Sale Signs. The use of temporary, intermittent, freestanding signs to advertise products or sale items, prices or for similar purposes must only be used in accordance with the following:

a.

Size. The maximum size of an individual sign is four square feet.

b.

Number of signs. The maximum number of a point-of-sale sign is one sign per frontage.

c.

Location. No point-of-sale sign are not allowed on the public right-of-way.

d.

Height. The maximum height of a point-of-sale sign is five feet.

e.

Display Period. A point-of-sale sign must not be erected more often than three times in any calendar year and the length of each such display must not exceed 30 days.

f.

Permit Exemption. Temporary point-of-sale signs are not required to obtain a permit or pay a permit fee.

3.

Real Estate Signs. The use of temporary signs to indicate that the premises upon which it is located is available for sale or lease, must only be used in accordance with the following:

a.

Design. The design of a real estate sign may be a ground sign or wall sign.

b.

Size. The maximum size of an individual sign is 144 square feet.

c.

Display Period. A real estate sign may be erected for the duration of the sale period.

d.

Permit Exemption. Temporary real estate signs are not required to obtain a permit or pay a permit fee.

4.

Temporary sign face. Sign faces which identify a location during the interim period while the permanent sign face is being manufactured, and which are typically made of plastic or canvas materials may be allowed for a period of 30 days or until the permanent sign face is ready, whichever is less.

5.

Snipe signs and Temporary signs advertising an event not exceeding two square feet in area advertising an event may be displayed during the time of the event. Such signs may not be attached to any utility poles, light standard, tree, or placed in any right-of-way.

6.

Banners. Banners may be location, event, holiday, or sponsor specific and are temporary signs as defined by this ordinance. Banners are to be secured to building walls or mounted on existing poles by fixed brackets and hardware.

7.

Temporary window signs of non-permanent materials such as paper, poster board or similar materials may be displayed in any window provided such signs do not occupy more than 20 percent of the area of the window. Temporary window signs may not obscure entry areas or prevent the general public or public safety personnel from viewing interior or exterior activity.

(Ord. No. 25-O-03, § 2(Exh. A), 1-6-25)

A.

Required. A uniform sign plan is required for all residential subdivisions, multi-unit dwellings and townhouse developments, planned unit developments, and all multi-building or multi-occupant commercial developments before any signs for such development may be erected on the subject property. All owners, tenants, subtenants, and purchasers of individual units within the development must comply with the uniform sign plan.

B.

Elements. The uniform sign plan must consist of five elements that govern all signs within the development: location, materials, size, color, and illumination. The uniform sign plan must include details, specifications, dimensions, and plans showing the proposed locations of signs and how such locations conform to this ordinance. It must also show the computations of the maximum total sign area permitted for the site as well as any special computations regarding additional ground signs.

C.

Time for Review. The uniform sign plan is subject to approval by the Zoning Administrator or City Council. For residential subdivisions, the uniform sign plan must be submitted, reviewed, and approved by City Council prior to approval of the final subdivision plat. For multi-unit dwellings and townhouse developments, the uniform sign plan must be submitted, reviewed, and approved by the Zoning Administrator prior to the issuance of any building permit for the development. For planned unit developments, the uniform sign plan must be submitted, reviewed, and approved by City Council with the approval of the first site plan or final subdivision plat for the development.

D.

Review Criteria. A uniform sign plan for a residential subdivision, planned unit development, or multi-unit dwellings or townhouse development may not be approved until and unless the Zoning Administrator finds that:

1.

The plan provides that signs of a similar type and function within the development will have a consistent size, lettering style, color scheme, and material construction; and

2.

The plan provides for signs that meet the size limitations, location requirements, and other applicable requirements of this ordinance.

E.

Amendment Procedures. A uniform sign plan previously approved by the Zoning Administrator may be amended by filing a new master plan with the Zoning Administrator, with the following provisions. A uniform sign plan previously approved by City Council may be amended by applying for a new master plan with the City Council, with the following provisions. An amended uniform sign plan must be subject to approval as below.

1.

The application may be filed only by the owner of the land affected by the proposed change, or an agent, lessee, or contract purchaser specifically authorized by the owner to file such application. Before filing the application, all landowners affected by the proposed change must give written authorization, which such authorization must be included in the filing.

2.

Any new or amended uniform sign plan must include a schedule for bringing all signs not conforming to the proposed plan into conformance within six months. This applies to all properties governed by said plan.

F.

Effect. After approval of a uniform sign plan, or an amended uniform sign plan, all signs must be erected, placed, painted, or maintained in accordance with the uniform sign plan, and such plan may be enforced in the same way as any provision of this ordinance. In case of a conflict between a provision of a uniform sign plan and one or more provisions of this ordinance, this ordinance controls.

The following signs, parts of signs, characteristics of signs, and sign-like objects are prohibited and may not be erected, maintained, continued, or used in the City.

A.

Any sign or similar object, color, light, shape, or combination thereof which resembles an official traffic control device or sign or is a representation of such a traffic control device or sign not installed by a government entity or its contracted agent.

B.

Any obscene language or graphic material or other representation of an obscenity or obscene act.

C.

Any sign that emits music, speech, simulated speech, or any other sound on a regular or intermittent basis.

D.

Any sign affixed to a tree not installed by a government entity or its contracted agent.

E.

Any sign affixed to a utility pole, public light or streetlight, traffic control device or similar standard used for lighting, such as parking lot lights not installed by a government entity or its contracted agent.

F.

Any sign or similar device that contains a strobe light or any other high intensity light that is emitted on a periodic or intermittent basis or any such light used as an eye catcher.

G.

Any sign attached or painted onto an inoperable or unlicensed motor vehicle, or any sign attached to a licensed vehicle located within 50 feet of the public right-of-way or on the property to which the sign thereon refers.

H.

Any outdoor advertising sign that is not a permitted sign (including legal nonconforming outdoor advertising signs, or any outdoor advertising sign which is not an exempt sign as provided in Section 12.02.J (Exemptions).

I.

Bench signs.

J.

Cabinet signs, when mounted directly to building.

K.

Cross-Street Banners. Banners strung across the public right-of-way are prohibited.

L.

Eye catchers.

M.

Off-premises signs.

N.

Roof signs.

O.

Larger than life size inflatable and/or plastic figures.

P.

Any otherwise exempt sign that exceeds the regulations or restrictions for size, location, or time of display, placed on such exempt signs by Section 12.02.J (Exemptions).

(Ord. No. 25-O-03, § 2(Exh. A), 1-6-25)