The purpose of this Article is to establish a framework for a comprehensive system of sign controls governing the display, design, construction, installation and maintenance of signs that will:

A.

To promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of the County by ensuring the compatibility of signs with surrounding architecture and land uses.

B.

To create a more attractive business and economic climate in the commercial and industrial areas of the County by enhancing and protecting the orderly and effective display of signs.

C.

To discourage an excessive number of signs and unsightly, dissimilar and inappropriate signs.

D.

To protect the public from hazardous conditions that result from the indiscriminate use and placement of signs, structurally unsafe signs, signs which obscure the vision of pedestrians or motorists, and signs which compete or conflict with necessary traffic signals and warning signs.

Unless specifically permitted as exempt from sign permit requirements by this Article, it shall be unlawful for any person to erect, relocate, or structurally alter any sign or other advertising structure without first obtaining a sign permit from the County. The Planning and Zoning Officer may revoke any sign permit where there has been a violation of the provisions of this Ordinance or misrepresentation of fact on the sign permit application.

A.

No signs, other than those placed by agencies of government or signs whose placement has been authorized by this Article or the County, shall be erected on any public property. Any sign placed on public property without authorization may be removed without notice.

B.

No signs shall be placed on any private property without prior consent of the owner thereof and, where applicable, issuance of a sign permit.

C.

All signs shall comply with the view obstruction provisions of this Ordinance and all regulations herein this Article.

D.

No sign mounted on the exterior of a building shall cover any windows, doors or any architectural features.

The following principles shall control the computation of sign dimensions.

22.4.1 Computation of Sign Area. Sign area is calculated as described in this section.

A.

For signs on a background, the entire area of the framework or background of the sign is calculated as sign area, including any material or color forming the sign face or background used to differentiate the sign from the structure against which it is placed. Sign area does not include any supports or bracing, unless such framework or bracing is part of the message or sign face.

B.

For signs consisting of freestanding letters or logos, the sign area is calculated as the total area of each square, circle, rectangle or triangle, or combination thereof that encompasses each individual letter or logo. Sign area does not include any supporting framework or bracing, unless such framework or bracing is part of the message or sign face.

C.

For awning and canopy signs, the sign area is the printed area of the awning or canopy, calculated as the total area of each square, circle, rectangle or triangle, or combination thereof that encompasses each individual letter or logo.

D.

Window signs printed on a transparent film and affixed to the interior or exterior of a windowpane are calculated as individual letters or logos, provided that the portion of the transparent film around the perimeter of the individual letters or logos maintains one hundred percent (100%) transparency of the window. Transparency is defined as both the ability to view into the interior of the establishment from the outside and to view the outside from the interior of the establishment through the same area.

E.

The sign area of a three-dimensional, free-form or sculptural (non-planar) sign is calculated as fifty percent (50%) of the sum of the area of the four (4) vertical sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign.

F.

If a sign has two (2) or more faces, the area of all faces is included in determining the area of the sign, unless the two (2) sign faces are placed back to back and are no more than two (2) feet apart. In such case, the sign area is calculated as the area of one (1) face. If the two (2) faces are unequal in area, the area of the larger face is used to calculate sign area.

G.

Necessary supports or uprights on which the sign is erected are not included in the sign area computation.

22.4.2 Measurement of Sign Height. Sign height is measured as described below. When measuring sign height, the height of the entire structure, including decorative elements, must be included.

A.

For freestanding signs, height shall be calculated as the vertical distance measured from grade to the highest point of the sign.

B.

For signs attached to buildings, height shall be calculated as the vertical distance from the base of the building to which a sign is attached to the highest point of the sign.

22.5.1 Construction. All signs constructed, erected, modified or altered shall comply with the provisions of this Article and the requirements of the County Code. All signs must be professionally constructed. Signs painted on unfinished wood such as plywood, chip board or scrap metal are prohibited, whether wall-mounted or free-standing.

22.5.2 Sign Structure and Installation. Supports and braces shall be an integral part of the sign design. Supports or braces shall be hidden from public view to the extent technically feasible. All signs attached to a building shall be installed and maintained so that wall penetrations are watertight and the structure does not exceed allowable stresses of supporting materials.

22.5.3 Wind Pressure and Direct Load Requirements. All signs shall be designed and constructed to withstand a wind pressure of not less than thirty (30) pounds per square foot of net surface area, and shall be constructed to receive dead loads as required by the County Code.

22.5.4 Electrical Components. All electrical fixtures, devices, circuits, conduits, raceways or apparatus used to illuminate, move or project any sign shall be installed and maintained as required in the County Code. An electrical permit is required.

[22.5.5 Reserved.]

22.5.6 Illumination.

A.

Goose-neck reflectors and exterior spotlights shall be permitted provided that the reflectors and spotlights shall concentrate the illumination upon the area of the sign so as to prevent glare upon the street or adjacent property.

B.

Internally illuminated signs are permitted.

C.

All sign illumination shall be designed, located, shielded and directed so as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent publicly dedicated roadways and surrounding properties, or distract operators of vehicles or pedestrians in the public right-of-way.

22.5.7 Glass. Glass forming any part of a sign must be safety glass.

22.5.8 Lettering. All letters, figures, characters or representations in cut-out or irregular form, maintained in conjunction with, attached to, or superimposed upon any sign must be safely and securely built or attached to the sign structure.

22.5.9 Limitation on Items of Information.

A.

All signs must limit the number of items of information on any single sign face to no more than six (6) items to prevent traffic hazards for passing motorists and to minimize the cluttered appearance of signs.

B.

Each piece of information on a sign shall be defined as an item of information. For example, each of the following would be defined as one (1) item of information: a telephone number, the name of the business, even if multiple words, or the business logo. If the sign advertises products or services, each product or service would be one (1) item of information. The street number address of the business is not counted as an item of information.

C.

Changeable message signs, where the items of information are changed manually, are also counted as one (1) item of information. For a sign that contains a time and temperature component, the time and temperature component shall not be counted as an item of information.

D.

All signs on a lot must be related to goods and/or services sold or offered on the premises, with the exception of non-commercial or political signs.

E.

Signs for multi-tenant commercial buildings used to advertise which tenants are located within the development, are limited to one (1) item of information per tenant within the development, which may exceed six (6) items, in addition to the name and address of the development.

F.

Directory signs and menu board signs are exempt from the items of information limitation.

22.5.10 Sign and Premises Maintenance.

A.

All signs, and the premises surrounding the sign, shall be maintained in a clean, sanitary and inoffensive condition, and free and clear of all noxious substances, rubbish and weeds.

B.

If the County shall find that any sign or other advertising structure, as defined herein, is unsafe or insecure, or is a menace to the public, or has been constructed or erected or is being maintained in violation of the provisions of this Article, the Planning and Zoning Officer shall immediately be advised of such condition and he/she shall give written notice to the property owner or the sign permit holder thereof. If property owner and/or sign permit holder fails to remove or alter the structure so as to comply with the standards herein set forth such sign or other advertising structure, as defined in this Article, may be removed by County at the expense of the sign permit holder or the owner of the property upon which it is located. The County may cause any other sign or other advertising structure that is an immediate peril to persons or property to be removed summarily and without notice.

22.5.11 Regulations for Temporary Signs.

A.

Any sign listed in Section 22.7 is prohibited.

B.

Temporary signs must be related to goods and/or services sold on the premises, except for non-commercial or political messages. Temporary off-premises signs are prohibited.

C.

No temporary sign may be illuminated, except for portable signs as noted in Section 22.9.2.

D.

All temporary signs must remain in good condition during the display period. Throughout the display period, corrective action must be taken immediately should there be any problems with the appearance, condition or maintenance of the sign and/or support hardware.

A.

When more than one (1) wall sign, awning or canopy is proposed on any building with multiple tenants, the applicant shall submit a master sign plan for review by the Planning and Zoning Officer.

B.

A master sign plan shall provide for coordinated design for all building-mounted signs and shall include, at a minimum, criteria and specifications for general appearance, format of message, font size and style, lighting, location and construction materials.

C.

Where signs are to be located on a wall of a multi-tenant shopping center, they shall be located at a generally uniform height on the building wall and shall not cover or overhang any architectural feature.

22.7.1 Animated Signs. Animated signs are prohibited.

22.7.2 Banner Signs (Permanent). Permanent banner signs used to advertise a business, its products or its services are prohibited. Banners may be used as temporary signs in accordance with this Article.

22.7.3 Flashing Signs. No sign shall have blinking or flashing lights, or other illuminating device that has a changing light intensity, brightness or color, traveling/chasing or blinking lights, or rotating beacons.

22.7.4 Moving Signs. No sign or other advertising structure shall have moving, revolving or rotating parts or visible mechanical movement of any kind. Clocks with movable hands shall be permitted.

22.7.5 Obscene Signs. No sign or other advertising device shall display any matter in which the dominant theme of the material taken as a whole appeals to a prurient interest in sex, or is patently offensive because it affronts contemporary community standards relating to the description or representation of sexual matters, and is utterly without redeeming social value.

22.7.6 Painted and Illegally Affixed Signs. Signs painted directly on an exterior wall, roof, fascia, parapet or chimney of a building or on a fence are prohibited.

22.7.7 Roof Signs. Roof signs are prohibited.

22.7.8 Signs that Interfere with Traffic. No sign or other advertising structure, as regulated in this Article, shall:

A.

Obstruct free and clear vision at any street, intersection, parking lot entrance or exit, or driveway.

B.

Interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device because of its position, shape or color.

C.

Make use of the words STOP, LOOK, DETOUR, DANGER or any other word, phrase, symbol or character in a manner that misleads, interferes with, or confuses traffic.

D.

No sign in direct line of vision of a traffic signal shall be illuminated in red, green or amber color, so as to resemble a traffic signal.

22.7.9 Snipe Signs. Any sign painted, pasted or otherwise affixed to any tree, rock, utility pole, hydrant, bridge, sidewalk, curb or street, bench or trash receptacle shall be prohibited. Logos and labels located on mechanical equipment, recycling bins, trash containers or dumpsters, which are part of the equipment as manufactured and/or installed, shall not be considered snipe signs.

22.7.10 Strobe Lights, Spotlights and Floodlights. Strobe lights, spotlights and floodlights used to advertise a business or event are prohibited.

22.7.11 Temporary Off-Premises Signs. Temporary off-premises signs are prohibited.

22.7.12 Unsafe Signs. No sign or other advertising structure shall constitute a hazard to safety or health by reason of inadequate design, construction, repair or maintenance.

22.7.13 Signs on Vehicles or Equipment. Signs placed or painted on parked vehicles, trucks, buses, trailers or equipment where the primary purpose is to advertise a product or service, or to direct the public to a business or activity located on or off the premises are prohibited. Signs displayed on trucks, trailers, buses or other vehicles or equipment, which are being operated and stored in the normal course of a business, such as signs indicating the owner or business that are located on delivery trucks, moving vans and rental trucks, are permitted, provided that the primary purpose of such vehicles or equipment is not the display of signs and that they are parked or stored in appropriate areas. Temporary or permanent signs resting on, or attached to, vehicles, trucks, buses, trailers or equipment used as a means to circumvent the provisions of this Ordinance are prohibited.

22.7.14 Signs Carried or Displayed by Persons in Public Right-of-Way. Signs that are carried, waved or otherwise displayed by or on persons in the public right-of-way or in a manner visible from the public right-of-way are prohibited.

The following permanent and temporary signs, and sign alteration and maintenance activities are exempt from the sign permit requirements of this Article.

22.8.1 Alteration and Maintenance Operations. The following activities shall be exempt from sign permit requirements:

A.

Changing of the advertising copy or message on an existing changeable copy sign or similar approved sign, whether illuminated or non-illuminated.

B.

Painting, repainting, cleaning, changing permitted items of information, or other normal maintenance and repair of a sign, not involving structural changes or changes in the electrical components of the sign.

22.8.2 A-Frame Signs. A-frame signs are exempt from sign permit requirements subject to the following:

A.

A-frame signs are permitted only for non-residential uses in the C-N, C-C, C-G and TND Districts.

B.

A-frame signs are limited to six (6) square feet in area and four (4) feet in height.

C.

The use of a-frame signs is limited to business hours only. Signs must be stored indoors at all other times. A-frame signs must not be used outdoors when high winds or heavy snow conditions exist.

D.

Only one (1) a-frame sign is permitted per business. A minimum twenty (20) foot separation is required between all a-frame signs.

E.

An a-frame sign must be placed within fifteen (15) feet of the primary entrance of the business, and must not interfere with pedestrian traffic or violate standards of accessibility as required by the ADA or other accessibility codes. A-frame signs may be placed in the public right-of-way but must maintain a five (5) foot sidewalk clearance at all times.

22.8.3 Banners (Temporary). Temporary banners are exempt from sign permit requirements subject to the following:

A.

Temporary banners are permitted for any non-residential use. Banners for home occupations are prohibited.

B.

Temporary banners are limited to thirty-two (32) square feet in area.

C.

Only one (1) banner is permitted per zoning lot.

D.

No temporary banner may be located higher than the roofline of the building to which it is attached or, if freestanding, no higher than the maximum height for monument signs. There shall be no encroachment into the public right-of-way.

E.

Temporary banners are limited to a display of fourteen (14) consecutive days when not related to a date specific or, if date specific, may be erected no earlier than five (5) days prior to the event plus the duration of the event and must be removed within three (3) days after the event but in no circumstance be displayed more than twenty two (22) consecutive days. Temporary banners may be erected on a lot no more than four (4) times in a calendar year with a minimum of seven (7) days between display periods.

F.

Temporary banners shall not be attached to vehicles, truck trailers or commercial equipment.

22.8.4 Construction Signs. Construction signs identifying the architect, engineer, developer and/or contractor when placed upon a construction site shall be exempt from sign permit requirements, subject to the following:

A.

Such signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height.

B.

Such signs shall not be erected prior to issuance of building permits and shall be removed no later than seven (7) days after issuance of an occupancy permit or completion of the project.

C.

Construction signs shall be limited to one (1) sign per street frontage.

22.8.5 Agricultural Identification Signs. Agricultural identification signs are limited to a maximum of twelve (12) square feet, one per zoning lot and permitted without a sign permit. Agricultural identification signs are restricted to displaying the agricultural products grown or produced onsite and farm name. Signs displayed only for seed identification purposes shall not be limited to the one per zoning lot restriction.

22.8.6 Directional Signs.

A.

Such signs shall identify the use only by means of a logo, shape, or color with the exception of words such as ENTRANCE or EXIT. Directional signs shall not include words identifying or advertising the use. Directional signs shall be located entirely on the property to which they pertain and shall identify parking lot entrances and exits, restrooms, public telephone, walkways, and features of a similar nature.

B.

One (1) directional sign is permitted for each driveway access from a public street. One (1) additional directional sign is permitted for each intersection of driveways within a site, to identify traffic routing, entrances and services, such as drive-in lanes.

C.

Directional signs are limited to a have a maximum height of five (5) feet, when freestanding, and a maximum surface area of six (6) square feet. Directional signs shall not project beyond the property line.

22.8.7 Flags. Flags of any government or governmental agency, or any patriotic, religious, charitable, civic, educational or fraternal organization shall be exempt from sign permit requirements. There shall be no more than three (3) flagpoles per zoning lot.

22.8.8 Garage or Yard Sale Signs. Temporary residential garage or yard sale signs shall be exempt from sign permit requirements, subject to the following:

A.

Temporary residential garage or yard sale signs shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet each. Only two (2) residential garage or yard sale signs are permitted per zoning lot.

B.

Signs must be posted no more than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the event and all signs must be removed within twenty-four (24) hours after the event. No signs shall be posted in the public right-of-way.

22.8.9 Headstones. Headstones, including tablets, grave markers, statuary/memorial plaques or remembrances of persons or events, that are non-commercial in nature and are located in an established cemetery shall be exempt from sign permit requirements.

22.8.10 House Number Signs. House number signs, which are not illuminated, shall be exempt from sign permit requirements. House number signs shall not exceed two (2) square feet and are limited only to the address number.

22.8.11 Memorial Plaques. Memorial or commemorative plaques or tablets denoting a building name and/or date of erection, or a location of historic significance, and not exceeding four (4) square feet in area shall be exempt from sign permit requirements. Memorial signs shall be cut into any masonry surface or constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials.

22.8.12 Miscellaneous Information Matter. Matter appearing on gasoline pumps, newspaper vending boxes and other vending machines, automatic teller machines, or matter appearing on or adjacent to entry doors such as PUSH, PULL, OPEN and/or CLOSED, or matter appearing on display windows or doors denoting hours of operation, credit cards accepted, and similar information shall be exempt from sign permit requirements. Service station rate signs and the changing of copy of such signs, including the names of grades of fuel and prices and conditions relating to prices such as full or self-service shall be permitted without a permit. However, such signs shall be included in the calculation of total window sign area, which may not exceed forty percent (40%) of total window area.

22.8.13 County Signs. Traffic or other county signs, legal notices, railroad crossing signs, signs regulating vehicular or pedestrian traffic, or designating or giving direction to streets, schools, historic sites or public buildings, and such temporary emergency or non-advertising signs shall be exempt from sign permit requirements.

22.8.14 Nameplate/Occupational Signs. Nameplate/occupational signs not exceeding two (2) square feet in area denoting only the name, address and profession of an occupant shall be exempt from sign permit requirements. Nameplate/occupational signs are further regulated in section 18.3.8.

22.8.15 Parking Lot Signs. Parking lot signs, such as "No Parking" or "Unauthorized users shall be towed," are permitted but may not exceed six (6) square feet and must be oriented to the parking area.

22.8.16 Political Signs. Political signs shall be exempt from sign permit requirements subject to the following:

A.

Signs shall be no more than sixteen (16) square feet in area on each side.

B.

Signs shall not be posted on any public property.

C.

Signs shall be posted on private property only, and only with the permission of the property owner. Only two (2) signs per election or referendum will be permitted per lot.

D.

When such signs refer to an election or referendum, such signs shall be posted no earlier than sixty (60) days prior to, and be removed no later than ten (10) days after the election or referendum to which the sign refers.

22.8.17 Real Estate Signs.

A.

For Sale/For Rent Signs. Real estate signs shall be exempt from sign permit requirements, subject to the following:

1.

Real estate signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area, except when the property consists of five hundred (500) feet of road frontage the real estate sign may be increased to a maximum of thirty two (32) square feet in area. Real estate signs shall be limited to six (6) feet in height and shall only advertise the sale, rental, lease or management of the premises upon which said signs are located. One (1) such sign is permitted per street frontage.

2.

Real estate signs must be located five (5) feet from any side lot line.

3.

Real estate signs shall be removed within forty-eight (48) hours of sale or lease.

B.

Real Estate Open House Signs. Real estate signs that direct persons to an "open house" are exempt from sign permit requirements, subject to the following:

1.

Real estate open house signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height.

2.

Real estate open house signs may not be placed within a public right-of-way.

3.

Real estate open house signs may be displayed one (1) day prior to the day of and during the open house and must be removed within two (2) hours of the end of the event.

22.8.18 Rear Service Door Signs. Rear service door signs shall be exempt from sign permit requirements and shall not exceed six (6) square feet.

22.8.19 Vehicle "For Sale" Signs. Vehicle "for sale" signs shall be exempt from sign permit requirements subject to the following:

A.

Vehicles that display a "for sale" or similar sign shall be parked in a lot where the sale of new or used vehicles is permitted.

B.

A vehicle may be parked and displayed for sale, with a "for sale" sign, by a private individual at that individual's home as well as driven and parked throughout the normal daily routine.

C.

A vehicle "for sale" sign must be removed within twenty-four (24) hours of the vehicle's sale.

22.8.20 Warning Signs. Warning signs, such as "Beware of Dog," "No Trespassing" or "No Dumping," not exceeding two (2) square feet per sign shall be exempt from sign permit requirements.

22.8.21 Window Signs. Window signs shall be exempt from sign permit requirements, provided that the total of all window signs, whether temporary or permanent, shall occupy no more than forty percent (40%) of the total window area. Neon window signs are subject to the following:

A.

Neon window signs must be located entirely inside the window. No exterior neon signs are permitted.

B.

Series lighting or neon tubing used to accentuate or trim windows, architectural features, or to outline borders of signs or buildings, is specifically prohibited.

C.

Neon window signs are permitted only in the C-N, C-C, C-G, TND Districts and industrial districts where a commercial use is permitted onsite.

Temporary signs are permitted in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance, except that where other sections of this Ordinance regulate such signs, the more restrictive regulation shall apply.

22.9.1 Attention-Getting Devices. Attention-getting devices require a permit and are permitted for non-residential uses in the C-C and C-G Districts and in the industrial districts where a commercial use is permitted onsite subject to the following regulations.

A.

Attention-getting devices are limited to a display of fourteen (14) consecutive days when not related to a date specific or, if date specific, may be erected no earlier than five (5) days prior to the event plus the duration of the event and must be removed within three (3) days after the event but in no circumstance be displayed more than twenty-two (22) consecutive days. Attention-getting devices may be erected on a lot no more than two (2) times in a calendar year with a minimum of seven (7) days between display periods.

B.

Attention-getting devices may not be erected or maintained in such a location or manner as may endanger the public safety or interfere with or obstruct pedestrian or vehicular travel or create a traffic safety problem.

C.

Attention-getting devices may not be erected or maintained within any public right-of-way.

D.

As a condition of the issuance of a permit, requirements as to the material, manner of construction, and method of erection of a sign as are reasonably necessary to assure the safety and convenience of the public may be imposed.

E.

No inflatable promotional device may exceed fifteen (15) feet in height, or the height of the principal building to which it relates, whichever is lower. No inflatable promotional device may be mounted on a roof of a structure.

F.

Commercial or industrial mechanical lifts, excavation buckets or similar extended or positioned in nonconventional manner for the purpose of attracting attention, promoting or advertising is prohibited in all zoning districts.

22.9.2 Temporary Portable Signs.

A.

Temporary portable signs are permitted for any non-residential use. Temporary portable signs are prohibited for home occupations.

B.

Temporary pole and portable lighted trailer signs are limited to twenty-four (24) square feet in area and five (5) feet in height.

C.

All temporary portable signs must be set back five (5) feet from any property line.

D.

Temporary portable signs are limited to a display of fourteen (14) consecutive days when not related to a date specific or, if date specific, may be erected no earlier than five (5) days prior to the event plus the duration of the event and must be removed within three (3) days after the event but in no circumstance be displayed more than twenty-two (22) consecutive days. Temporary portable signs may be erected on a lot no more than four (4) times in a calendar year with a minimum of seven (7) days between display periods.

22.9.3 Permit Fee. Temporary signs requiring a permit under this Section 22.9 shall require the payment of a fee in the minimum amount established for sign permits, as may be amended from time to time.

Permanent signs are permitted in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance, except that where other sections of this Ordinance regulate such signs, the more restrictive regulation shall apply.

22.10.1 Billboards. Billboards are permitted subject to the following restrictions:

A.

Billboards are prohibited in the following districts:

1.

All residential districts

2.

OS District

3.

CN District

4.

CD District

5.

TND District

6.

Scenic Road Overlay District

7.

FP Overlay District

B.

Billboards are permitted in all other districts not listed in Section 22.10.1 A. when located within six hundred sixty (660) feet of the right-of-way of any expressway or primary highway as defined in the Illinois Highway Advertising Control Act of 1971, 225 ILCS 440/1 et seq. Where billboards are permitted, the following spacing requirements apply:

1.

Within six hundred sixty (660) feet of the right-of-way of any expressway as defined in the Illinois Highway Advertising Control Act of 1971, 225 ILCS 440/1 et seq., no billboard designed to be viewed from such highway shall be permitted to be erected within five hundred (500) feet of any other billboard on the same side of the highway, unless separated by a building or other obstruction that prohibits the motorist's view in his direction of travel. Within six hundred sixty (660) feet of the right-of-way of any primary highway, other than expressways set forth above, as defined in the Illinois Highway Advertising Control Act of 1971, 225 ILCS 440/1 et seq., no billboard designed to be viewed from such highway shall be permitted to be erected within three hundred (300) feet of any other billboard on the same side of the highway unless separated by a building or other obstruction that prohibits the motorist's view in his direction of travel. Prior to County approval of a billboard along said expressways or highways, the applicant must show proof of compliance with State requirements.

2.

When the billboard is located within the Agricultural Districts, Industrial Districts or the CC, CG, or OP Districts, additional setbacks apply. No billboard when located in the Agricultural Districts shall be erected closer than two thousand six hundred forty (2,640) feet to an existing billboard and no billboard when located in the Industrial Districts, CC, CG or OP Districts shall be erected closer than one thousand (1,000) feet to an existing billboard on the same side of the road measured along the centerline of such road. No billboard shall be located closer than seventy-five (75) feet from any residential district, five hundred (500) feet from any dwelling or sign structure or three-hundred (300) feet from any public park of more than five (5) acres in area.

C.

The sign area of a billboard shall not be greater than eighteen (18) feet in vertical dimension nor greater than fifty-five (55) feet in horizontal dimensions.

D.

The maximum height of billboard signs is thirty (30) feet above grade.

E.

Billboards shall not be mounted or painted on any building wall, vehicle, trailer or equipment.

F.

Additional restrictions apply to electronic billboards. Electronic billboards are a permitted use only in the CG and Industrial Districts. A special use permit is required for electronic billboards in the CC and OP Districts. In addition, electronic billboards must meet the following standards:

1.

Each message or image must be static for a minimum of eight (8) seconds. Animation, streaming video and images that move or give the appearance of movement are prohibited.

2.

An electronic billboard must not exceed a maximum illumination of six thousand (6,000) nits during daylight hours, and a maximum illumination of five hundred (500) nits between dusk and dawn, as measured from the sign's face at maximum brightness. All electronic billboard must have ambient light monitors installed, which automatically adjust the brightness level of the electronic sign based on ambient light conditions.

3.

The sign face of any existing nonconforming billboard shall not be converted to an electronic billboard. However, if an existing billboard is located pursuant to item 22.10.1 B.1. and this item 22.10.1 F. and the nonconformity is only the result of a setback in 22.10.1 B.2., a special use permit may be applied for to enable the billboard to be electronic.

22.10.2 Awnings and Canopies. Awnings and canopies that are considered an architectural feature of a structure and are not used for identifying the premises or the goods and/or services sold are not considered a sign. Awnings and canopies used as signs are subject to the following regulations:

A.

Awning and canopy signs are permitted for multi-family residential and non-residential uses in any district.

B.

All awning or canopy signs must maintain a minimum clearance of seven feet six inches (7'6"). Awnings and canopies must not extend beyond a point two (2) feet from the curb line.

C.

Printing on any awning or canopy sign is limited to thirty percent (30%) of any side of the awning or canopy.

D.

Awning and canopy signs shall be constructed out of fabric, canvas or canvas-like material, or metal. Back-lit plastic awnings and canopies are prohibited.

E.

Awning and canopy signs must be securely attached to and supported by a building. All frames and supports must be made of metal or similar rigid material. Frames and supports may not be made of wood or plastics.

F.

Under-awning signs are permitted for non-residential uses subject to the following:

1.

Under-awning signs must be attached to the underside of an awning. Under-awning signs must not project beyond the awning.

2.

Under-awning must maintain a minimum clearance of seven (7) feet.

3.

A maximum of one (1) under-awning signs per business establishment with frontage on the street where the awning is mounted is permitted.

4.

Under-awning signs may not exceed three (3) square feet.

5.

Under-awning signs must be securely fixed to the awning with metal supports.

22.10.3 Electronic Message Center Signs.

A.

Electronic message center signs are permitted for all non-residential uses in the commercial, industrial and office park districts and in all agricultural districts, provided that use of such signs in agricultural districts are limited to educational facilities, places of worship and government facilities.

B.

Only one (1) electronic message center sign is permitted per street frontage.

C.

Each message displayed on an electronic message center sign must be static or depicted for a minimum of eight (8) seconds. Any scrolling, flashing or movement of the message is prohibited.

D.

No illumination from an electronic message center sign may be positioned to glare directly into a residential dwelling. In addition, no illumination from such sign may interfere with the safe movement of motor vehicles on public thoroughfares.

E.

An electronic message center sign must not exceed a maximum illumination of six thousand (6,000) nits during daylight hours, and a maximum illumination of five hundred (500) nits between dusk and dawn, as measured from the sign's face at maximum brightness. All electronic message center signs must have ambient light monitors installed, which automatically adjust the brightness level of the electronic sign based on ambient light conditions.

F.

Electronic message center signs are permitted as a wall or freestanding sign, and are subject to the requirements, including sign area, of this Article for said sign types.

G.

Electronic message center signs shall not display any off-premises commercial advertising.

H.

Electronic display screens, which typically stream videos and images, are prohibited.

I.

The similar yet different permanently installed changeable copy board signs are permitted as a wall or freestanding sign and subject to the requirements, including sign area and the off-premise commercial advertising prohibition, of this Article for said sign types.

22.10.4 Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs are permitted for all multi-family, residential subdivision and non-residential uses, subject to the following regulations and Table 22-1: Freestanding Sign Regulations. In some districts, certain types of freestanding signs may be prohibited or specifically regulated elsewhere in this Ordinance.

A.

One (1) freestanding sign is permitted per street frontage of a lot for non-residential uses. Multi-family developments are limited to one sign and subdivisions are limited to two signs (one on each side of road) at each entrance of development or subdivision which shall only identify the name of the development or subdivision, inclusive of a logo.

B.

No part of a freestanding sign may project into, over or otherwise encroach on a public right-of-way.

C.

Freestanding sign permissions, heights and sign areas are limited as shown in Table 22-1: Freestanding Sign Regulations.

22.10.5 Projecting Sign. Projecting signs are permitted for all non-residential uses allowed within the districts, subject to the following regulations. In some districts, projecting signs may be prohibited as regulated in Table 22-2: Projecting Sign Regulations.

A.

One (1) projecting sign is permitted per ground floor establishment with frontage on a street.

B.

Projecting signs may not project more than five (5) feet from the face of the building to which they are attached, including the area between the sign and the face of the building.

C.

The bottom of any projecting sign must be at least seven (7) feet above the sidewalk or thoroughfare. No projecting sign affixed to a building may project higher than the building height, including the sign support structure.

D.

Projecting signs, including frames, braces, and supports must be designed by a licensed structural engineer or manufacturer. No projecting sign may be secured with wire, chains, strips of wood or nails nor may any projecting sign be hung or secured to any other sign. Any movable part of a projecting sign, such as the cover of a service opening, must be securely fastened by chains or hinges.

E.

Projecting sign areas are limited as shown in Table 22-2: Projecting Sign Regulations:

22.10.6 Menu Board Signs. Drive-through establishments are permitted two (2) menu board signs per drive through lane no more than forty (40) square feet in sign area, no more than seven (7) feet in height and no less than fifteen (15) feet from any lot line. Menu boards may be internally illuminated.

22.10.7 Wall Sign. Wall signs are permitted for non-residential uses in all districts, subject to the following regulations:

A.

The maximum gross area of all wall signs on a zoning lot is established at one (1) square foot per linear foot of building frontage subject to the following:

1.

For an interior lot, the maximum gross area of all wall signs on each building wall is established as measured along the building frontage, with a minimum of thirty-two (32) square feet permitted and in no case shall the maximum gross area of all wall signs onsite exceed six hundred eighty (680) square feet. The gross area of all wall signs on each side of the building is limited to the square footage calculated on that side only. In no case may the square footage permitted for one building wall be combined to create a larger sign on a wall other than that permitted on each individual wall.

2.

For a corner lot, the maximum gross area of all wall signs located on each building wall is measured along the building frontage, with a minimum of thirty-two (32) square feet permitted and in no case shall the maximum gross area of all wall signs onsite exceed six hundred eighty (680) square feet. The gross area of all wall signs on each side of the building is limited to the square footage calculated on that side only. In no case may the square footage permitted for one building wall be combined to create a larger sign on a wall other than that permitted on each individual wall.

3.

For a multi-tenant structure, however, the maximum size of a wall sign for each tenant is measured along each individual business frontage, with a minimum of thirty-two (32) square feet permitted for a wall sign for each tenant. In no case, may the total amount of wall signs on the structure exceed the multiplier times the linear foot of total business frontage or the sum total of thirty-two (32) square feet per tenant, whichever is greater.

B.

Wall signs must be safely and securely attached to the building wall. Wall signs must be affixed flat against the wall and must not project more than eighteen (18) inches from the building wall and must be located entirely on the lot (i.e., no encroachment over lot lines).

C.

No wall sign affixed to a building, including sign support structure, may project beyond the ends or top of the wall or higher than the roofline of the structure to which it is attached. On existing buildings, a parapet wall must not be constructed for the sole purpose of increasing the allowable height of a wall sign. For new buildings, when a sign is to be mounted on a parapet wall, that parapet wall must be consistent with the architectural design of the building, including building materials. Wall signs may not be attached to un-reinforced masonry parapets. Wall signs must not cover windows, doors or architectural features.

D.

Wall signs must not be painted on the exterior wall. No new wall signs may be painted on buildings or structures.

See Section 21(Nonconforming Signs) for the provisions for nonconforming signs.