Yorkville City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 6

SIGN STANDARDS

10-6-1. Purpose and Scope

Purpose. The purpose of this Chapter is to set out regulations for the erection and maintenance to ensure the appropriate appearance of signs while preserving the right of free speech and expression in keeping with the following principles.

1.
The ability to display signs of reasonable size and dimensions is vital to the health and sustainability of many businesses, and the display of signs with noncommercial messages is a traditional component of the freedom of speech, but the constitutional guarantee of free speech may be limited by appropriate and constrained regulation that is unrelated to the expression itself,
2.
The City has an important and substantial interest in preventing sign clutter, which is the proliferation of signs of increasing size and dimensions as a result of competition among property owners for the attention of passing motorists, because sign clutter degrades the character of the community, makes the community a less attractive place for commerce and private investment, and dilutes or obscures messages displayed along the City’s streets by creating visual confusion and aesthetic blight,
3.
Sign clutter can be prevented by regulations that balance the legitimate needs of individual property owners to convey messages against the comparable needs of adjacent and nearby property owners and the interest of the community as a whole in providing for a high-quality community character,
4.
Temporary signs that are not constructed of weather-resistant materials are often damaged or destroyed by wind, rain, and sun, and after such damage or destruction, degrade the aesthetics of the City’s streets if they are not removed,
5.
The City has an important and substantial interest in keeping its rights-of-way clear of obstructions and litter,
6.
The City has an important and substantial interest in protecting the health of its tree canopy, which contributes to the character and value of the community, and
7.
The uncontrolled use of off-premises advertising signs can be injurious to the public, and destructive to community character and property values, and that, as such, restrictions on the display of off-premises commercial signage are necessary and desirable.

Scope. The regulations of this Chapter shall provide a balanced and fair legal framework for design, construction, and placement of signs that:

1.
Promotes the safety of persons and property by ensuring that signs do not create a hazard by:
1. a.
  Collapsing, catching fire, or otherwise decaying,
2. b.
  Confusing or distracting motorists, or
3. c.
  Impairing drivers' ability to see pedestrians, obstacles, or other vehicles, or to read traffic signs.
2.
Promotes the efficient communication of messages, and ensures that persons exposed to signs:
1. a.
  Are not overwhelmed by the number of messages presented, and
2. b.
  Are able to exercise freedom of choice to observe or ignore said messages according to the observer’s purpose, and
3.
Protects the public welfare and enhances the appearance and economic value of the community by protecting scenic views and avoiding sign clutter that can compromise the character, quality, and viability of commercial corridors,
4.
Ensures that signs are compatible with their surroundings, and prevents the construction of signs that are a nuisance to occupants of adjacent and contiguous property due to brightness, reflectivity, bulk, or height,
5.
Promotes the use of signs that are aesthetically pleasing, of appropriate scale, and integrated with the built environment, to meet the objectives related to the quality and character of development set forth in the Comprehensive Plan of the City of Yorkville,
6.
Enhances property values and business opportunities,
7.
Assists in wayfinding, and
8.
Provides fair and consistent permitting and enforcement.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-2. Limit on Sign Area

Permanent Sign Area Limit. Each lot with multi-family residential, mixed-use, or non-residential uses shall be allowed aggregate permanent sign area equal to one (1) square foot of sign area per linear foot of lot frontage.

Temporary Sign Area Limit. Each lot shall be allowed aggregate temporary sign area equal to one (1) square foot of sign area per linear foot of frontage.

Premises Having Frontage on More Than One Dedicated Street. Premises having frontage on more than one (1) dedicated street shall be allowed an additional one-half (0.5) square foot of aggregate sign area for each lineal foot of the secondary lot frontage; however additional sign area shall only be displayed on the secondary frontage.

Figure 6.1. Limit on Sign Area

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-3. Sign Measurement

Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the grade of the centerline of the adjacent street to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.

Figure 6.2. Sign Height Measurement

B.
Sign Area. Sign area shall be computed by means of the smallest square, rectangle, circle, triangle or combination thereof that shall encompass the extreme limits of the writing representation, emblem or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the backing of the display or used to differentiate the sign from the sign base or structure against which it is placed. Sign area shall not include any supporting framework, bracing, decorative fence, or wall when such fence or wall otherwise meets this Title’s regulations and is clearly incidental to the display itself. A double-faced sign shall count as a single sign.

Figure 6.3. Sign Area Measurements

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-4. Permitted Sign Types

A.
The following key is to be used in the interpretation of Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by district.
1. 1.
  Permitted Sign Types. Sign types marked as “P” in the table shall be permitted subject to all applicable regulations of this Title and only after the issuance of a Sign Permit as detailed in Section 10-8-3(E).
2. 2.
  Allowed Sign Types. Sign types marked as “A” in the table shall be allowed subject to all applicable regulations of this Title without the issuance of a Sign Permit.
3. 3.
  Prohibited Sign Types. A blank space in the table indicates that a sign type is not allowed in the respective district.
4. 4.
  Interpretation of Similar Sign Type. If a proposed sign is not listed in the table, the Zoning Administrator shall determine if the sign is substantially similar to a sign listed in the table. If it is, the standards applied to the proposed sign shall be the standards applicable to the similar sign. If not, the sign shall be regarded as prohibited.
5. 5.
  Exempt Signs. Any sign located on private property less than two (2) square foot in area and mounted on a structure shall be exempt from the standards of this Chapter.
6. 6.
  Unlisted Sign Types. Sign types that are not included in Table 10-6-4(A) shall be considered prohibited.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-5. General Sign Standards

Illumination.

1.
Location and Design of Light Source. Whenever an external artificial light source is used for a sign, such source shall be located, shielded, and directed so as not to be directly visible from any public street or private residence. No receptacle or device housing a permitted light source for a sign shall protrude more than twelve (12) inches from the face of the sign or building to which it is attached except if such light source is ground mounted, locked in place, and cannot be redirected.
2.
Level of Illumination. In no event shall the illumination of any sign, resulting from any internal or external artificial light source, exceed the outdoor lighting standards established in Section 10-5-7. All artificial illumination shall be so designed, located, shielded, and directed as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent property or streets.

Electronic Message Boards. Single-tenant and multi-tenant monument signs may incorporate electronic message boards in accordance with the following:

1.
The area of the sign devoted to an electronic message board shall be part of, not in addition to, the maximum sign area allowed.
2.
The maximum sign area of any sign comprised entirely of an electronic message board shall be eighty (80) percent of the maximum sign area of the single-tenant or multi-tenant sign, as applicable.
3.
The electronic message format shall conform to the following requirements:
1. a.
  The message shall contain a static message or image only and not have movement, or the appearance of movement, during the static display period.
2. b.
  The transition to change from one message or image to another shall be instant and not dissolve, fade, scroll, travel, or have similar transitions.
3. c.
  The message shall not change more frequently than once every ten (10) seconds.
4.
Electronic message boards must be equipped with a default mechanism that shall stop the messaging or freeze the image in one position when a malfunction in electronic programming occurs.
5.
Electronic message boards shall be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and is programmed to automatically dim according to light conditions.
6.
Illumination of electronic message signs shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over the ambient lighting conditions when measured at a distance equal to the square footage of the sign area.
7.
Illumination of electronic message signs shall not be detectable across any property line.
8.
Applications shall be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator to determine that the sign placement does not interfere with traffic control devices within three hundred (300) feet of the sign or traffic circulation upon roadways.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-6. Permanent Sign Standards

Wall Signs.

1.
Sign Area.
1. a.
  Signs Attached to a Wall With a Public Entrance or Facing a Public Right-of-Way. The maximum sign area shall be two (2) square feet for every one (1) linear foot of the exterior wall to which it is affixed. The sign shall not to exceed seventy-five (75) percent of the width of the exterior wall to which it is attached.
2. b.
  Signs Attached to Any Other Wall. The maximum sign area shall be one (1) square foot for every one (1) linear foot of the exterior wall to which it is affixed. The sign shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the width of the exterior wall to which it is attached.
2.
Sign Height. No wall sign shall be closer than one (1) foot from the highest roofline or the top of the parapet wall or mansard roof.
3.
Projection and Clearance.
1. a.
  Projection. If the wall sign projects more than six (6) inches from the wall of the building or structure to which it is attached, it shall maintain a vertical clearance of at least eight (8) feet.
2. b.
  Maximum Projection. No wall sign shall project more than twelve (12) inches from the wall of the building or structure to which it is attached. Any sign which projects more than twelve (12) inches from the wall will be defined as a projecting sign as regulated in Section 10-6-6(D).

Figure 6.4. Wall Sign Area, Height, and Projection

1. 4.
  Number of Signs.
  1. a.
    Single tenant buildings shall be permitted a total of two (2) primary wall signs or one (1) primary wall sign per one hundred (100) linear feet of building frontage. One (1) additional wall sign shall be allowed per additional hundred (100) feet of building frontage. Only one (1) primary wall sign shall be displayed on any single building façade.
  2. b.
    Multi-tenant buildings shall be permitted one (1) wall sign per unit.
  3. c.
    A maximum of two (2) secondary wall signs may be authorized for buildings with lineal frontage in excess of seventy-five (75) feet by the Zoning Administrator provided such additional signage is:
    (1)
    In keeping with the overall design and architecture of the building,
    (2)
    A minimum of ten (10) feet from the primary wall sign and other secondary wall signs,
    (3)
    A maximum of fifty (50) percent of the size of the primary wall sign,
    (4)
    Accessory to the building’s primary wall sign(s), and
    (5)
    The total area of all primary and secondary wall signs does not exceed the maximum wall sign area as established in Section 10-6-6(A)(1).
2. 5.
  Sign Copy. If the sign copy utilized on a wall sign is either individually affixed letters, raceway letters, applied vinyl, or printed, etched, or otherwise incorporated directly on the sign’s backing plate, the Zoning Administrator may approve an increase in sign copy area up to an additional five (5) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
3. 6.
  Other Provisions. No wall sign shall be affixed to HVAC screening, elevator overrun, or other features protruding from the roof of the structure.

Figure 6.5. Secondary Wall Sign Standards

B.
Monument Signs.
1. 1.
  General Monument Sign Standards
  1. a.
    Sign Materials. The following classes of sign materials shall be utilized in the determination of allowed sign area and sign height as detailed in Sections 10-6-3(A) and 10-6-3(B).
    (1)
    Base Quality Materials.
    (a)
    Stone veneer systems,
    (b)
    Fiber cement,
    (c)
    Wood,
    (d)
    EIFs,
    (e)
    Precast panels, or
    (f)
    Other as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
    (2)
    High Quality Materials.
    (a)
    Masonry,
    (b)
    Natural stone,
    (c)
    Steel/wrought iron, or
    (d)
    Other as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
1. 1. b.
    Landscape.
    (1)
    All monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area at the base of the sign.
    (2)
    The minimum area of the landscape area shall be equal to half (1/2) of the square footage of the sign area of the associated sign.
    (3)
    Landscape areas shall be planted with one (1) shrub or native grass, per every three (3) square feet of required landscape area.
    (4)
    Required shrubs and native grasses shall be approved by the Zoning Administrator as a landscape plan.
1. 2.
  Single-Tenant Monument Signs.
  1. a.
    Sign Dimensions.
    (1)
    Base Quality Single-Tenant Monument Signs. Single-tenant monument signs utilizing base quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of single-tenant monument signs shall not exceed eight (8) feet.
    (2)
    High Quality Single-Tenant Monument Signs. Single-tenant monument signs utilizing high quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed forty-eight (48) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of single-tenant monument signs shall not exceed twelve (12) feet.
  2. b.
    Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) single-tenant monument sign shall be permitted per every eight-hundred (800) continuous, linear feet of lot frontage.
  3. c.
    Location. Single-tenant monument signs shall be located the minimum distance established below per district type from property lines, rights-of-way, and utility easements, shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system, and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
    (1)
    Residential Districts: Ten (10) feet
    (2)
    Nonresidential Districts: Five (5) feet
  4. d.
    Landscape Requirement. All single-tenant monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area meeting the requirements of Section 10-6-6(B)(1)(b) at the base of the sign.

Figure 6.6. Single-Tenant Monument Sign Standards

1. 3.
  Multi-Tenant Monument Signs.
  1. a.
    Sign Dimensions.
    (1)
    Base Quality Multi-Tenant Monument Signs. Multi-tenant monument signs utilizing base quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of multi-tenant monument signs shall not exceed ten (10) feet.
    (2)
    High Quality Multi-Tenant Monument Signs. Multi-tenant monument signs utilizing high quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of multi-tenant monument signs shall not exceed fourteen (14) feet.
  2. b.
    Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) multi-tenant monument sign shall be permitted per lot frontage.
  3. c.
    Location. Multi-tenant monument signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and rights-of-way, shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
  4. d.
    Landscape Requirement. All multi-tenant monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area meeting the requirements of Section 10-6-6(B)(1)(b) at the base of the sign.
  5. e.
    Signs Within Landscaped Medians. Any multi-tenant monument sign within a landscaped median shall be located outside vision clearance areas as specified in Section 10-5-6.

Figure 6.7. Multi-Tenant Monument Sign Standards

C.
Awning/Canopy Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of awning/canopy signs shall be fifty (50) percent of the face of the awning or canopy upon which the sign shall be printed or affixed. The area of the awning or canopy sign copy shall count towards the maximum amount of sign area permitted for wall signs as detailed in Section 10-6-6(A)(1).
2. 2.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Signs required for public health, safety, and welfare that are posted on awnings/canopies, like “clearance” signs, shall not count towards allowed sign area.
  2. b.
    Awning/canopy signs shall only be permitted on awnings/canopies extending above ground floor entrances or windows.

Figure 6.8. Awning/Canopy Sign Standards

D.
Projecting Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum permitted sign copy area of projecting signs shall be sixteen (16) square feet.
2. 2.
  Height. Projecting signs shall not extend above the roofline of the building to which it is attached, or a maximum of twelve (12) feet, whichever is less.
3. 3.
  Clearance. Projecting signs shall maintain a minimum vertical clearance of eight (8) feet.
4. 4.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) projecting sign shall be permitted per ground floor nonresidential tenant space. A projecting sign and a wall sign may be displayed on the same building frontage. A projecting sign and an awning or canopy sign shall not be displayed on the same building frontage.
5. 5.
  Projection.
  1. a.
    Signs which project over a public right-of-way may horizontally project a maximum of four (4) feet from the mean elevation of the building to which it is attached.
  2. b.
    Signs which project over private property may horizontally project a maximum of eight (8) feet from the mean elevation of the building to which it is attached.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions. Projecting signs may encroach upon, extend, or project over a public right-of-way or easement. The property owner may be required to provide a release or hold harmless to the City prior to issuing permits for any such signs.

Figure 6.9. Projecting Sign Standards

E.
Window Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum permitted sign area of a window sign shall be fifty (50) percent of the square footage of the individual window on which the sign shall be located.

Figure 6.10. Window Sign Standards

F.
On-Site Traffic Directional Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of on-site traffic directional signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet. Permitted on-site traffic directional sign area shall not count towards aggregate sign area.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of on-site traffic directional signs shall not exceed four (4) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. The permitted number of on-site traffic directional signs shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator as necessary to assist in the safe movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic on a property.

Figure 6.11. On-Site Traffic Directional Sign Standards

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-7. Temporary Sign Standards

General Standards for Permitted Temporary Signs.

1.
Concurrent Display. A maximum of two (2) permitted temporary signs, as permitted per district, may be displayed per lot concurrently, with the exception of feather signs as detailed in Section 10-6-7(D).

Wall Mounted Banner Signs.

1.
Sign Area.
1. a.
  The maximum sign area of wall mounted banner signs in residential districts or the B-1, B-2, A-1, OS, and PI Districts shall not exceed seven and one-half (7.5) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
2. b.
  The maximum sign area of wall mounted banner signs in the B-3, M-1, and M-2 Districts shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
2.
Sign Height. No wall mounted banner sign shall protrude above the highest roofline or above the top of the parapet wall or mansard roof.
3.
Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) wall mounted banner sign shall be permitted per lot frontage of a single-tenant building or unit of a multi-tenant building.
4.
Location. Wall mounted banner signs shall be affixed to a building.
5.
Projection. Wall mounted banner signs shall be affixed flat against the building to which they are mounted.
6.
Duration. Wall-mounted banner signs shall be limited to ninety (90) days in any calendar year.

Figure 6.12. Wall-Mounted Banner Sign Standards

C.
Ground Mounted Banner Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of a ground mounted banner sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a ground mounted banner sign shall not exceed six (6) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) ground mounted banner sign shall be permitted per lot frontage.
4. 4.
  Location. Ground mounted banner signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
5. 5.
  Duration. Ground mounted banner signs shall be limited to ninety (90) days in any calendar year.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Ground mounted banner signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Ground mounted banner signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.13. Ground-Mounted Banner Sign Standards

D.
Feather Sign.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of feather signs shall not exceed twenty six (26) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a feather sign shall not exceed twelve (12) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs.
  1. a.
    A maximum of three (3) feather signs sixteen (16) square feet or less shall be permitted per lot frontage. Only one (1) feather sign shall be permitted per frontage when the sign is over sixteen (16) square feet in area.
  2. b.
    For multi-tenant buildings, only one (1) feather sign is permitted per business.
4. 4.
  Location.
  1. a.
    Feather signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system, and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
  2. b.
    For multi-tenant buildings, feather signs must be twenty-five (25) feet from any other feather sign.
5. 5.
  Duration.
  1. a.
    The permitted display period of a feather sign shall be a maximum of thirty (30) consecutive days.
  2. b.
    A total of three (3) nonconcurrent display periods shall be permitted per property per calendar year.
  3. c.
    Nonconcurrent display periods shall be separated by a minimum of thirty (30) days.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Feather signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Feather signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.14. Feather Sign Standards

E.
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum allowed sign area of a-frame/sandwich board signs shall be eight (8) square feet.
2. 2.
  Height. The maximum allowed height of a a-frame/sandwich board sign shall be four (4) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) a-frame/sandwich board sign shall be permitted per ground floor nonresidential tenant space.
4. 4.
  Location.
  1. a.
    A-frame/sandwich board signs shall be placed in a manner that preserves a continuous sidewalk width of a minimum of three (3) feet.
  2. b.
    No part of any a-frame/sandwich board sign shall block points of ingress or egress.
  3. c.
    All a-frame/sandwich board signs shall be within seven-hundred fifty (750) feet of the entrance of the associated business.
5. 5.
  Other Provisions For Parcels within the Downtown Overlay District.
  1. a.
    A-frame/sandwich board signs shall be on-premises signs only, with the exception of B-2 zoned parcels.
  2. b.
    The property owner of B-2 zoned parcels may locate an A-Frame/Sandwich Board sign off premise within the public right-of-way within the Downtown Overlay District. The owner shall be required to provide a release or hold harmless to the City prior to the display of any such signs located within a public right-of-way.
6. 6.
  Duration of Display. The display of a-frame/sandwich board signs shall only be permitted during the operating hours of the use to which the sign is associated.

Figure 6.15. A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign Standards

F.
Post Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Copy Area.
  1. a.
    The maximum sign copy area of a post sign in a residential zoning district shall not exceed six (6) square feet.
  2. b.
    The maximum sign copy area of a post sign in a nonresidential zoning district shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a post sign shall not exceed six (6) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) post sign shall be allowed per lot frontage.
4. 4.
  Location. Post signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
5. 5.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Post signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Post signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.16. Post Sign Standards

G.
Cold Air Inflatables. Cold air inflatable signs shall be allowed in all districts with the exception of residential districts.
1. 1.
  Duration. Cold air inflatable signs shall be allowed once per calendar year for a maximum of seventy-two (72) hours.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a cold air inflatable sign shall be twenty-five (25) feet as measured from grade.
3. 3.
  Location. Inflatable signs shall not be installed below or interfere with any electrical conductors, phone conductors, CATV conductors, fire alarm conductors or any other similar installations.
4. 4.
  Supports Required. The inflatable structure shall be ground-mounted or attached to supports and guy wires ground- mounted or securely attached to the building roof. No inflatable structure shall be permitted to be secured to any mechanical equipment, parapet walls or other items normally found on the roof of a structure.
5. 5.
  Encroachment. Inflatable signs shall be anchored to prevent dislocation, entanglement or encroachment onto adjacent properties or public streets, or undue hazard to motorists or pedestrians.

Figure 6.17. Cold Air Inflatable Sign Standards

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-8. Comprehensive Sign Plan

Intent. The intent of the comprehensive sign program is to provide an alternative procedure under which signs can be designed, constructed, and erected with innovation, imagination, and creative architecture. The objective of the comprehensive sign plan is to encourage a higher level of design and amenity than is possible to achieve under otherwise applicable sign regulations.

Applicability. Any building or development may elect to submit a comprehensive sign plan. After the approval of a comprehensive sign plan, no permanent sign shall be erected, placed, or maintained except in conformance with the Comprehensive Sign Plan.

Conditions. The Zoning Administrator may attach conditions, requirements, or standards necessary to assure that the signs covered by the Comprehensive Sign Plan will not be materially detrimental to persons or property in the vicinity. In making its determination, the Zoning Administrator shall not base any condition on the content of a sign.

Evaluation Criteria.

1.
Placement. All signs shall be placed where they are visible and legible. Factors to be considered include the location of a sign relative to traffic movement and access points, site features, other structures, and orientation relative to viewing distances and viewing angles. Wall Signs may be approved on building walls other than the wall of a unit of a multi-tenant building in which some units have little or no visibility from the street.
2.
Quantity. The number of signs that may be approved within any development shall be sufficient to provide necessary facilitation of internal circulation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic and wayfinding for safety of the occupants of vehicles and pedestrians. Factors to be considered shall be those that impact safety considerations such as the size of the development and the number of development sub-areas.
3.
Size. All signs shall be no larger than necessary for visibility and legibility but in no instance shall the sign area or sign height exceed the maximum established per sign type per district. Factors to be considered in determining appropriate size include topography, volume, and speed of traffic, viewing distances and angles, proximity to adjacent uses, and placement of display.

Application. A comprehensive sign plan shall be submitted on a form established by the Zoning Administrator. The application shall contain the following information as well as all other information required by the Zoning Administrator to ensure compliance with the comprehensive sign plan evaluation criteria.

1.
Name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
2.
Location of building, structure, or lot to which or upon which the comprehensive sign plan shall apply.
3.
Name of person, firm, corporation, or association developing the comprehensive sign plan.
4.
Written consent of the owner or lessee of the building, structure, or land to which the proposed comprehensive sign plan is applicable.
5.
Scale drawing of all signs included in the comprehensive sign plan indicating the dimensions, the materials to be used, the type of illumination, if any, and the method of construction and attachment. Said drawings shall be drawn at a scale no smaller than one-eight (1/8) inch equals one (1) foot and shall be prepared, signed, and sealed by a registered professional engineer when required by the Zoning Administrator.
6.
A scale drawing indicating the location and position of all signs included in the comprehensive sign plan in relation to nearby buildings or structures. Said drawing shall be at a scale no smaller than one (1) inch equals fifty (50) feet.

Review and Action. The Zoning Administrator shall review the comprehensive sign plan application and approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application based on the evaluation criteria. A written decision including the findings on the evaluation criteria shall be rendered to the applicant.

Appeals. Any applicant who receives a notice of denial from the Zoning Administrator may, within thirty (30) days after receipt of such decision, appeal such decision to the Board of Adjustment by filing a written notice of appeal with the Zoning Administrator with an explanation as to why said decision was not warranted according to the applicant.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-9. Prohibited Signs and Content

Prohibited Signs. The following sign types shall be prohibited in all districts:

1.
Pole/Pylon Signs
2.
Billboards
3.
Roof Signs
4.
Outline Lighting
5.
Signs located on City property without the City’s permission
6.
Signs which encroach on the public right-of-way

Prohibited Content.

1.
The following content is prohibited without reference to the viewpoint of the individual speaker:
1. a.
  Content that is prohibited or restricted per state or federal statute.
2. b.
  Text or graphics that advertise unlawful activity,
3. c.
  Text or graphics that are obscene, fighting words, defamation, incitement to imminent lawless action, or true threats, or
4. d.
  Text or graphics that present a clear and present danger due to their potential confusion with traffic control signs or signs that provide public safety information (for example, signs that use the words "Stop," "Yield," "Caution," or "Danger," or comparable words, phrases, symbols, or characters in such a manner as to imply a safety hazard that does not exist).
2.
The narrow classifications of content that are prohibited by this subsection are either not protected by the United States or Illinois Constitutions or are offered limited protection that is outweighed by the substantial governmental interests in protecting the public safety and welfare. It is the intent of the City Council that each paragraph of this Subsection be individually severable in the event that a court of competent jurisdiction were to hold one or more of them to be inconsistent with the United States or Illinois Constitutions.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-10. Safety, Maintenance, and Abandonment

Every sign and all parts thereof, including framework, supports, background, anchors and wiring systems shall be constructed and maintained in compliance with applicable building and other codes adopted by the City.

All signs, together with all supports, braces, guys, and anchors shall be kept in proper repair in accordance with the provisions of this Title. When not galvanized or constructed of approved corrosion resistive, noncombustible materials, signs shall be painted when necessary to prevent corrosion, rust, peeling paint, and excessive fading. Failure of owners to keep signs maintained in good mechanical and visual repair shall be deemed a violation of this Title.

It shall be the duty and responsibility of the owner or lessee of every sign to maintain the immediate premises occupied by the sign in a clean condition, free of rubbish.

If the Zoning Administrator shall find that any sign is unsafe or unsecure, or is a threat to the public safety, or was, after the adoption of this Title constructed, erected, or maintained in violation of the provisions of this title, he or she shall give written notice per the provisions of this Title. Such notice shall specify the manner in which the sign is unsafe or in violation of this Title.

Sign copy shall be removed and in the case of a wall sign, the building façade shall be repaired, by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located when the use which the sign is associated is no longer conducted on the premises. The sign copy shall be removed within thirty (30) days of when the use ceases to operate. If the owner or lessee fails to remove the sign copy, the Zoning Administrator shall give the owner thirty (30) days written notice to remove it. Failure to comply with the notice shall be deemed a violation of this Title.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Yorkville City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 6

SIGN STANDARDS

10-6-1. Purpose and Scope

1.
The ability to display signs of reasonable size and dimensions is vital to the health and sustainability of many businesses, and the display of signs with noncommercial messages is a traditional component of the freedom of speech, but the constitutional guarantee of free speech may be limited by appropriate and constrained regulation that is unrelated to the expression itself,
2.
The City has an important and substantial interest in preventing sign clutter, which is the proliferation of signs of increasing size and dimensions as a result of competition among property owners for the attention of passing motorists, because sign clutter degrades the character of the community, makes the community a less attractive place for commerce and private investment, and dilutes or obscures messages displayed along the City’s streets by creating visual confusion and aesthetic blight,
3.
Sign clutter can be prevented by regulations that balance the legitimate needs of individual property owners to convey messages against the comparable needs of adjacent and nearby property owners and the interest of the community as a whole in providing for a high-quality community character,
4.
Temporary signs that are not constructed of weather-resistant materials are often damaged or destroyed by wind, rain, and sun, and after such damage or destruction, degrade the aesthetics of the City’s streets if they are not removed,
5.
The City has an important and substantial interest in keeping its rights-of-way clear of obstructions and litter,
6.
The City has an important and substantial interest in protecting the health of its tree canopy, which contributes to the character and value of the community, and
7.
The uncontrolled use of off-premises advertising signs can be injurious to the public, and destructive to community character and property values, and that, as such, restrictions on the display of off-premises commercial signage are necessary and desirable.

Scope. The regulations of this Chapter shall provide a balanced and fair legal framework for design, construction, and placement of signs that:

1.
Promotes the safety of persons and property by ensuring that signs do not create a hazard by:
1. a.
  Collapsing, catching fire, or otherwise decaying,
2. b.
  Confusing or distracting motorists, or
3. c.
  Impairing drivers' ability to see pedestrians, obstacles, or other vehicles, or to read traffic signs.
2.
Promotes the efficient communication of messages, and ensures that persons exposed to signs:
1. a.
  Are not overwhelmed by the number of messages presented, and
2. b.
  Are able to exercise freedom of choice to observe or ignore said messages according to the observer’s purpose, and
3.
Protects the public welfare and enhances the appearance and economic value of the community by protecting scenic views and avoiding sign clutter that can compromise the character, quality, and viability of commercial corridors,
4.
Ensures that signs are compatible with their surroundings, and prevents the construction of signs that are a nuisance to occupants of adjacent and contiguous property due to brightness, reflectivity, bulk, or height,
5.
Promotes the use of signs that are aesthetically pleasing, of appropriate scale, and integrated with the built environment, to meet the objectives related to the quality and character of development set forth in the Comprehensive Plan of the City of Yorkville,
6.
Enhances property values and business opportunities,
7.
Assists in wayfinding, and
8.
Provides fair and consistent permitting and enforcement.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-2. Limit on Sign Area

Temporary Sign Area Limit. Each lot shall be allowed aggregate temporary sign area equal to one (1) square foot of sign area per linear foot of frontage.

Figure 6.1. Limit on Sign Area

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-3. Sign Measurement

Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the grade of the centerline of the adjacent street to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.

Figure 6.2. Sign Height Measurement

B.
Sign Area. Sign area shall be computed by means of the smallest square, rectangle, circle, triangle or combination thereof that shall encompass the extreme limits of the writing representation, emblem or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the backing of the display or used to differentiate the sign from the sign base or structure against which it is placed. Sign area shall not include any supporting framework, bracing, decorative fence, or wall when such fence or wall otherwise meets this Title’s regulations and is clearly incidental to the display itself. A double-faced sign shall count as a single sign.

Figure 6.3. Sign Area Measurements

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-4. Permitted Sign Types

A.
The following key is to be used in the interpretation of Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by district.
1. 1.
  Permitted Sign Types. Sign types marked as “P” in the table shall be permitted subject to all applicable regulations of this Title and only after the issuance of a Sign Permit as detailed in Section 10-8-3(E).
2. 2.
  Allowed Sign Types. Sign types marked as “A” in the table shall be allowed subject to all applicable regulations of this Title without the issuance of a Sign Permit.
3. 3.
  Prohibited Sign Types. A blank space in the table indicates that a sign type is not allowed in the respective district.
4. 4.
  Interpretation of Similar Sign Type. If a proposed sign is not listed in the table, the Zoning Administrator shall determine if the sign is substantially similar to a sign listed in the table. If it is, the standards applied to the proposed sign shall be the standards applicable to the similar sign. If not, the sign shall be regarded as prohibited.
5. 5.
  Exempt Signs. Any sign located on private property less than two (2) square foot in area and mounted on a structure shall be exempt from the standards of this Chapter.
6. 6.
  Unlisted Sign Types. Sign types that are not included in Table 10-6-4(A) shall be considered prohibited.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-5. General Sign Standards

Illumination.

1.
Location and Design of Light Source. Whenever an external artificial light source is used for a sign, such source shall be located, shielded, and directed so as not to be directly visible from any public street or private residence. No receptacle or device housing a permitted light source for a sign shall protrude more than twelve (12) inches from the face of the sign or building to which it is attached except if such light source is ground mounted, locked in place, and cannot be redirected.
2.
Level of Illumination. In no event shall the illumination of any sign, resulting from any internal or external artificial light source, exceed the outdoor lighting standards established in Section 10-5-7. All artificial illumination shall be so designed, located, shielded, and directed as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent property or streets.

Electronic Message Boards. Single-tenant and multi-tenant monument signs may incorporate electronic message boards in accordance with the following:

1.
The area of the sign devoted to an electronic message board shall be part of, not in addition to, the maximum sign area allowed.
2.
The maximum sign area of any sign comprised entirely of an electronic message board shall be eighty (80) percent of the maximum sign area of the single-tenant or multi-tenant sign, as applicable.
3.
The electronic message format shall conform to the following requirements:
1. a.
  The message shall contain a static message or image only and not have movement, or the appearance of movement, during the static display period.
2. b.
  The transition to change from one message or image to another shall be instant and not dissolve, fade, scroll, travel, or have similar transitions.
3. c.
  The message shall not change more frequently than once every ten (10) seconds.
4.
Electronic message boards must be equipped with a default mechanism that shall stop the messaging or freeze the image in one position when a malfunction in electronic programming occurs.
5.
Electronic message boards shall be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and is programmed to automatically dim according to light conditions.
6.
Illumination of electronic message signs shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over the ambient lighting conditions when measured at a distance equal to the square footage of the sign area.
7.
Illumination of electronic message signs shall not be detectable across any property line.
8.
Applications shall be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator to determine that the sign placement does not interfere with traffic control devices within three hundred (300) feet of the sign or traffic circulation upon roadways.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-6. Permanent Sign Standards

Wall Signs.

1.
Sign Area.
1. a.
  Signs Attached to a Wall With a Public Entrance or Facing a Public Right-of-Way. The maximum sign area shall be two (2) square feet for every one (1) linear foot of the exterior wall to which it is affixed. The sign shall not to exceed seventy-five (75) percent of the width of the exterior wall to which it is attached.
2. b.
  Signs Attached to Any Other Wall. The maximum sign area shall be one (1) square foot for every one (1) linear foot of the exterior wall to which it is affixed. The sign shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the width of the exterior wall to which it is attached.
2.
Sign Height. No wall sign shall be closer than one (1) foot from the highest roofline or the top of the parapet wall or mansard roof.
3.
Projection and Clearance.
1. a.
  Projection. If the wall sign projects more than six (6) inches from the wall of the building or structure to which it is attached, it shall maintain a vertical clearance of at least eight (8) feet.
2. b.
  Maximum Projection. No wall sign shall project more than twelve (12) inches from the wall of the building or structure to which it is attached. Any sign which projects more than twelve (12) inches from the wall will be defined as a projecting sign as regulated in Section 10-6-6(D).

Figure 6.4. Wall Sign Area, Height, and Projection

1. 4.
  Number of Signs.
  1. a.
    Single tenant buildings shall be permitted a total of two (2) primary wall signs or one (1) primary wall sign per one hundred (100) linear feet of building frontage. One (1) additional wall sign shall be allowed per additional hundred (100) feet of building frontage. Only one (1) primary wall sign shall be displayed on any single building façade.
  2. b.
    Multi-tenant buildings shall be permitted one (1) wall sign per unit.
  3. c.
    A maximum of two (2) secondary wall signs may be authorized for buildings with lineal frontage in excess of seventy-five (75) feet by the Zoning Administrator provided such additional signage is:
    (1)
    In keeping with the overall design and architecture of the building,
    (2)
    A minimum of ten (10) feet from the primary wall sign and other secondary wall signs,
    (3)
    A maximum of fifty (50) percent of the size of the primary wall sign,
    (4)
    Accessory to the building’s primary wall sign(s), and
    (5)
    The total area of all primary and secondary wall signs does not exceed the maximum wall sign area as established in Section 10-6-6(A)(1).
2. 5.
  Sign Copy. If the sign copy utilized on a wall sign is either individually affixed letters, raceway letters, applied vinyl, or printed, etched, or otherwise incorporated directly on the sign’s backing plate, the Zoning Administrator may approve an increase in sign copy area up to an additional five (5) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
3. 6.
  Other Provisions. No wall sign shall be affixed to HVAC screening, elevator overrun, or other features protruding from the roof of the structure.

Figure 6.5. Secondary Wall Sign Standards

B.
Monument Signs.
1. 1.
  General Monument Sign Standards
  1. a.
    Sign Materials. The following classes of sign materials shall be utilized in the determination of allowed sign area and sign height as detailed in Sections 10-6-3(A) and 10-6-3(B).
    (1)
    Base Quality Materials.
    (a)
    Stone veneer systems,
    (b)
    Fiber cement,
    (c)
    Wood,
    (d)
    EIFs,
    (e)
    Precast panels, or
    (f)
    Other as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
    (2)
    High Quality Materials.
    (a)
    Masonry,
    (b)
    Natural stone,
    (c)
    Steel/wrought iron, or
    (d)
    Other as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
1. 1. b.
    Landscape.
    (1)
    All monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area at the base of the sign.
    (2)
    The minimum area of the landscape area shall be equal to half (1/2) of the square footage of the sign area of the associated sign.
    (3)
    Landscape areas shall be planted with one (1) shrub or native grass, per every three (3) square feet of required landscape area.
    (4)
    Required shrubs and native grasses shall be approved by the Zoning Administrator as a landscape plan.
1. 2.
  Single-Tenant Monument Signs.
  1. a.
    Sign Dimensions.
    (1)
    Base Quality Single-Tenant Monument Signs. Single-tenant monument signs utilizing base quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of single-tenant monument signs shall not exceed eight (8) feet.
    (2)
    High Quality Single-Tenant Monument Signs. Single-tenant monument signs utilizing high quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed forty-eight (48) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of single-tenant monument signs shall not exceed twelve (12) feet.
  2. b.
    Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) single-tenant monument sign shall be permitted per every eight-hundred (800) continuous, linear feet of lot frontage.
  3. c.
    Location. Single-tenant monument signs shall be located the minimum distance established below per district type from property lines, rights-of-way, and utility easements, shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system, and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
    (1)
    Residential Districts: Ten (10) feet
    (2)
    Nonresidential Districts: Five (5) feet
  4. d.
    Landscape Requirement. All single-tenant monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area meeting the requirements of Section 10-6-6(B)(1)(b) at the base of the sign.

Figure 6.6. Single-Tenant Monument Sign Standards

1. 3.
  Multi-Tenant Monument Signs.
  1. a.
    Sign Dimensions.
    (1)
    Base Quality Multi-Tenant Monument Signs. Multi-tenant monument signs utilizing base quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of multi-tenant monument signs shall not exceed ten (10) feet.
    (2)
    High Quality Multi-Tenant Monument Signs. Multi-tenant monument signs utilizing high quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of multi-tenant monument signs shall not exceed fourteen (14) feet.
  2. b.
    Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) multi-tenant monument sign shall be permitted per lot frontage.
  3. c.
    Location. Multi-tenant monument signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and rights-of-way, shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
  4. d.
    Landscape Requirement. All multi-tenant monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area meeting the requirements of Section 10-6-6(B)(1)(b) at the base of the sign.
  5. e.
    Signs Within Landscaped Medians. Any multi-tenant monument sign within a landscaped median shall be located outside vision clearance areas as specified in Section 10-5-6.

Figure 6.7. Multi-Tenant Monument Sign Standards

C.
Awning/Canopy Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of awning/canopy signs shall be fifty (50) percent of the face of the awning or canopy upon which the sign shall be printed or affixed. The area of the awning or canopy sign copy shall count towards the maximum amount of sign area permitted for wall signs as detailed in Section 10-6-6(A)(1).
2. 2.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Signs required for public health, safety, and welfare that are posted on awnings/canopies, like “clearance” signs, shall not count towards allowed sign area.
  2. b.
    Awning/canopy signs shall only be permitted on awnings/canopies extending above ground floor entrances or windows.

Figure 6.8. Awning/Canopy Sign Standards

D.
Projecting Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum permitted sign copy area of projecting signs shall be sixteen (16) square feet.
2. 2.
  Height. Projecting signs shall not extend above the roofline of the building to which it is attached, or a maximum of twelve (12) feet, whichever is less.
3. 3.
  Clearance. Projecting signs shall maintain a minimum vertical clearance of eight (8) feet.
4. 4.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) projecting sign shall be permitted per ground floor nonresidential tenant space. A projecting sign and a wall sign may be displayed on the same building frontage. A projecting sign and an awning or canopy sign shall not be displayed on the same building frontage.
5. 5.
  Projection.
  1. a.
    Signs which project over a public right-of-way may horizontally project a maximum of four (4) feet from the mean elevation of the building to which it is attached.
  2. b.
    Signs which project over private property may horizontally project a maximum of eight (8) feet from the mean elevation of the building to which it is attached.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions. Projecting signs may encroach upon, extend, or project over a public right-of-way or easement. The property owner may be required to provide a release or hold harmless to the City prior to issuing permits for any such signs.

Figure 6.9. Projecting Sign Standards

E.
Window Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum permitted sign area of a window sign shall be fifty (50) percent of the square footage of the individual window on which the sign shall be located.

Figure 6.10. Window Sign Standards

F.
On-Site Traffic Directional Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of on-site traffic directional signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet. Permitted on-site traffic directional sign area shall not count towards aggregate sign area.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of on-site traffic directional signs shall not exceed four (4) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. The permitted number of on-site traffic directional signs shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator as necessary to assist in the safe movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic on a property.

Figure 6.11. On-Site Traffic Directional Sign Standards

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-7. Temporary Sign Standards

General Standards for Permitted Temporary Signs.

1.
Concurrent Display. A maximum of two (2) permitted temporary signs, as permitted per district, may be displayed per lot concurrently, with the exception of feather signs as detailed in Section 10-6-7(D).

Wall Mounted Banner Signs.

1.
Sign Area.
1. a.
  The maximum sign area of wall mounted banner signs in residential districts or the B-1, B-2, A-1, OS, and PI Districts shall not exceed seven and one-half (7.5) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
2. b.
  The maximum sign area of wall mounted banner signs in the B-3, M-1, and M-2 Districts shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
2.
Sign Height. No wall mounted banner sign shall protrude above the highest roofline or above the top of the parapet wall or mansard roof.
3.
Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) wall mounted banner sign shall be permitted per lot frontage of a single-tenant building or unit of a multi-tenant building.
4.
Location. Wall mounted banner signs shall be affixed to a building.
5.
Projection. Wall mounted banner signs shall be affixed flat against the building to which they are mounted.
6.
Duration. Wall-mounted banner signs shall be limited to ninety (90) days in any calendar year.

Figure 6.12. Wall-Mounted Banner Sign Standards

C.
Ground Mounted Banner Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of a ground mounted banner sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a ground mounted banner sign shall not exceed six (6) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) ground mounted banner sign shall be permitted per lot frontage.
4. 4.
  Location. Ground mounted banner signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
5. 5.
  Duration. Ground mounted banner signs shall be limited to ninety (90) days in any calendar year.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Ground mounted banner signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Ground mounted banner signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.13. Ground-Mounted Banner Sign Standards

D.
Feather Sign.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of feather signs shall not exceed twenty six (26) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a feather sign shall not exceed twelve (12) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs.
  1. a.
    A maximum of three (3) feather signs sixteen (16) square feet or less shall be permitted per lot frontage. Only one (1) feather sign shall be permitted per frontage when the sign is over sixteen (16) square feet in area.
  2. b.
    For multi-tenant buildings, only one (1) feather sign is permitted per business.
4. 4.
  Location.
  1. a.
    Feather signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system, and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
  2. b.
    For multi-tenant buildings, feather signs must be twenty-five (25) feet from any other feather sign.
5. 5.
  Duration.
  1. a.
    The permitted display period of a feather sign shall be a maximum of thirty (30) consecutive days.
  2. b.
    A total of three (3) nonconcurrent display periods shall be permitted per property per calendar year.
  3. c.
    Nonconcurrent display periods shall be separated by a minimum of thirty (30) days.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Feather signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Feather signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.14. Feather Sign Standards

E.
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum allowed sign area of a-frame/sandwich board signs shall be eight (8) square feet.
2. 2.
  Height. The maximum allowed height of a a-frame/sandwich board sign shall be four (4) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) a-frame/sandwich board sign shall be permitted per ground floor nonresidential tenant space.
4. 4.
  Location.
  1. a.
    A-frame/sandwich board signs shall be placed in a manner that preserves a continuous sidewalk width of a minimum of three (3) feet.
  2. b.
    No part of any a-frame/sandwich board sign shall block points of ingress or egress.
  3. c.
    All a-frame/sandwich board signs shall be within seven-hundred fifty (750) feet of the entrance of the associated business.
5. 5.
  Other Provisions For Parcels within the Downtown Overlay District.
  1. a.
    A-frame/sandwich board signs shall be on-premises signs only, with the exception of B-2 zoned parcels.
  2. b.
    The property owner of B-2 zoned parcels may locate an A-Frame/Sandwich Board sign off premise within the public right-of-way within the Downtown Overlay District. The owner shall be required to provide a release or hold harmless to the City prior to the display of any such signs located within a public right-of-way.
6. 6.
  Duration of Display. The display of a-frame/sandwich board signs shall only be permitted during the operating hours of the use to which the sign is associated.

Figure 6.15. A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign Standards

F.
Post Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Copy Area.
  1. a.
    The maximum sign copy area of a post sign in a residential zoning district shall not exceed six (6) square feet.
  2. b.
    The maximum sign copy area of a post sign in a nonresidential zoning district shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a post sign shall not exceed six (6) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) post sign shall be allowed per lot frontage.
4. 4.
  Location. Post signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
5. 5.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Post signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Post signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.16. Post Sign Standards

G.
Cold Air Inflatables. Cold air inflatable signs shall be allowed in all districts with the exception of residential districts.
1. 1.
  Duration. Cold air inflatable signs shall be allowed once per calendar year for a maximum of seventy-two (72) hours.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a cold air inflatable sign shall be twenty-five (25) feet as measured from grade.
3. 3.
  Location. Inflatable signs shall not be installed below or interfere with any electrical conductors, phone conductors, CATV conductors, fire alarm conductors or any other similar installations.
4. 4.
  Supports Required. The inflatable structure shall be ground-mounted or attached to supports and guy wires ground- mounted or securely attached to the building roof. No inflatable structure shall be permitted to be secured to any mechanical equipment, parapet walls or other items normally found on the roof of a structure.
5. 5.
  Encroachment. Inflatable signs shall be anchored to prevent dislocation, entanglement or encroachment onto adjacent properties or public streets, or undue hazard to motorists or pedestrians.

Figure 6.17. Cold Air Inflatable Sign Standards

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-8. Comprehensive Sign Plan

Evaluation Criteria.

1.
Placement. All signs shall be placed where they are visible and legible. Factors to be considered include the location of a sign relative to traffic movement and access points, site features, other structures, and orientation relative to viewing distances and viewing angles. Wall Signs may be approved on building walls other than the wall of a unit of a multi-tenant building in which some units have little or no visibility from the street.
2.
Quantity. The number of signs that may be approved within any development shall be sufficient to provide necessary facilitation of internal circulation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic and wayfinding for safety of the occupants of vehicles and pedestrians. Factors to be considered shall be those that impact safety considerations such as the size of the development and the number of development sub-areas.
3.
Size. All signs shall be no larger than necessary for visibility and legibility but in no instance shall the sign area or sign height exceed the maximum established per sign type per district. Factors to be considered in determining appropriate size include topography, volume, and speed of traffic, viewing distances and angles, proximity to adjacent uses, and placement of display.

1.
Name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
2.
Location of building, structure, or lot to which or upon which the comprehensive sign plan shall apply.
3.
Name of person, firm, corporation, or association developing the comprehensive sign plan.
4.
Written consent of the owner or lessee of the building, structure, or land to which the proposed comprehensive sign plan is applicable.
5.
Scale drawing of all signs included in the comprehensive sign plan indicating the dimensions, the materials to be used, the type of illumination, if any, and the method of construction and attachment. Said drawings shall be drawn at a scale no smaller than one-eight (1/8) inch equals one (1) foot and shall be prepared, signed, and sealed by a registered professional engineer when required by the Zoning Administrator.
6.
A scale drawing indicating the location and position of all signs included in the comprehensive sign plan in relation to nearby buildings or structures. Said drawing shall be at a scale no smaller than one (1) inch equals fifty (50) feet.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-9. Prohibited Signs and Content

Prohibited Signs. The following sign types shall be prohibited in all districts:

1.
Pole/Pylon Signs
2.
Billboards
3.
Roof Signs
4.
Outline Lighting
5.
Signs located on City property without the City’s permission
6.
Signs which encroach on the public right-of-way

Prohibited Content.

1.
The following content is prohibited without reference to the viewpoint of the individual speaker:
1. a.
  Content that is prohibited or restricted per state or federal statute.
2. b.
  Text or graphics that advertise unlawful activity,
3. c.
  Text or graphics that are obscene, fighting words, defamation, incitement to imminent lawless action, or true threats, or
4. d.
  Text or graphics that present a clear and present danger due to their potential confusion with traffic control signs or signs that provide public safety information (for example, signs that use the words "Stop," "Yield," "Caution," or "Danger," or comparable words, phrases, symbols, or characters in such a manner as to imply a safety hazard that does not exist).
2.
The narrow classifications of content that are prohibited by this subsection are either not protected by the United States or Illinois Constitutions or are offered limited protection that is outweighed by the substantial governmental interests in protecting the public safety and welfare. It is the intent of the City Council that each paragraph of this Subsection be individually severable in the event that a court of competent jurisdiction were to hold one or more of them to be inconsistent with the United States or Illinois Constitutions.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-10. Safety, Maintenance, and Abandonment

It shall be the duty and responsibility of the owner or lessee of every sign to maintain the immediate premises occupied by the sign in a clean condition, free of rubbish.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Yorkville City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 6

SIGN STANDARDS

10-6-1. Purpose and Scope

1.
The ability to display signs of reasonable size and dimensions is vital to the health and sustainability of many businesses, and the display of signs with noncommercial messages is a traditional component of the freedom of speech, but the constitutional guarantee of free speech may be limited by appropriate and constrained regulation that is unrelated to the expression itself,
2.
The City has an important and substantial interest in preventing sign clutter, which is the proliferation of signs of increasing size and dimensions as a result of competition among property owners for the attention of passing motorists, because sign clutter degrades the character of the community, makes the community a less attractive place for commerce and private investment, and dilutes or obscures messages displayed along the City’s streets by creating visual confusion and aesthetic blight,
3.
Sign clutter can be prevented by regulations that balance the legitimate needs of individual property owners to convey messages against the comparable needs of adjacent and nearby property owners and the interest of the community as a whole in providing for a high-quality community character,
4.
Temporary signs that are not constructed of weather-resistant materials are often damaged or destroyed by wind, rain, and sun, and after such damage or destruction, degrade the aesthetics of the City’s streets if they are not removed,
5.
The City has an important and substantial interest in keeping its rights-of-way clear of obstructions and litter,
6.
The City has an important and substantial interest in protecting the health of its tree canopy, which contributes to the character and value of the community, and
7.
The uncontrolled use of off-premises advertising signs can be injurious to the public, and destructive to community character and property values, and that, as such, restrictions on the display of off-premises commercial signage are necessary and desirable.

Scope. The regulations of this Chapter shall provide a balanced and fair legal framework for design, construction, and placement of signs that:

1.
Promotes the safety of persons and property by ensuring that signs do not create a hazard by:
1. a.
  Collapsing, catching fire, or otherwise decaying,
2. b.
  Confusing or distracting motorists, or
3. c.
  Impairing drivers' ability to see pedestrians, obstacles, or other vehicles, or to read traffic signs.
2.
Promotes the efficient communication of messages, and ensures that persons exposed to signs:
1. a.
  Are not overwhelmed by the number of messages presented, and
2. b.
  Are able to exercise freedom of choice to observe or ignore said messages according to the observer’s purpose, and
3.
Protects the public welfare and enhances the appearance and economic value of the community by protecting scenic views and avoiding sign clutter that can compromise the character, quality, and viability of commercial corridors,
4.
Ensures that signs are compatible with their surroundings, and prevents the construction of signs that are a nuisance to occupants of adjacent and contiguous property due to brightness, reflectivity, bulk, or height,
5.
Promotes the use of signs that are aesthetically pleasing, of appropriate scale, and integrated with the built environment, to meet the objectives related to the quality and character of development set forth in the Comprehensive Plan of the City of Yorkville,
6.
Enhances property values and business opportunities,
7.
Assists in wayfinding, and
8.
Provides fair and consistent permitting and enforcement.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-2. Limit on Sign Area

Temporary Sign Area Limit. Each lot shall be allowed aggregate temporary sign area equal to one (1) square foot of sign area per linear foot of frontage.

Figure 6.1. Limit on Sign Area

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-3. Sign Measurement

Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the grade of the centerline of the adjacent street to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.

Figure 6.2. Sign Height Measurement

B.
Sign Area. Sign area shall be computed by means of the smallest square, rectangle, circle, triangle or combination thereof that shall encompass the extreme limits of the writing representation, emblem or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the backing of the display or used to differentiate the sign from the sign base or structure against which it is placed. Sign area shall not include any supporting framework, bracing, decorative fence, or wall when such fence or wall otherwise meets this Title’s regulations and is clearly incidental to the display itself. A double-faced sign shall count as a single sign.

Figure 6.3. Sign Area Measurements

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-4. Permitted Sign Types

A.
The following key is to be used in the interpretation of Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by district.
1. 1.
  Permitted Sign Types. Sign types marked as “P” in the table shall be permitted subject to all applicable regulations of this Title and only after the issuance of a Sign Permit as detailed in Section 10-8-3(E).
2. 2.
  Allowed Sign Types. Sign types marked as “A” in the table shall be allowed subject to all applicable regulations of this Title without the issuance of a Sign Permit.
3. 3.
  Prohibited Sign Types. A blank space in the table indicates that a sign type is not allowed in the respective district.
4. 4.
  Interpretation of Similar Sign Type. If a proposed sign is not listed in the table, the Zoning Administrator shall determine if the sign is substantially similar to a sign listed in the table. If it is, the standards applied to the proposed sign shall be the standards applicable to the similar sign. If not, the sign shall be regarded as prohibited.
5. 5.
  Exempt Signs. Any sign located on private property less than two (2) square foot in area and mounted on a structure shall be exempt from the standards of this Chapter.
6. 6.
  Unlisted Sign Types. Sign types that are not included in Table 10-6-4(A) shall be considered prohibited.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Table 10-6-4(A) Permitted Sign Types by District
Sign Type	District
Sign Type	R Districts	B-1	B-2	B-3	M-1	M-2	A-1	OS	PI
Permanent Signs
Wall Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Single-Tenant Monument Sign	P (1)(2)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Multi-Tenant Monument Sign		P	P	P	P	P			P
Awning/Canopy Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Projecting Sign		P	P	P				P	P
Window Sign		A	A	A	A	A		A	A
On-Site Traffic Directional Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P		P	P
Temporary Signs
Wall Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Ground Mounted Banner Sign	P (1)	P	P	P	P	P	P (1)	P	P
Feather Sign		P	P	P	P	P		P
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign	A (1)	A	A	A
Post Sign	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A	P
Cold Air Inflatable		A	A	A	A	A	A	A	A
Notes: (1) Sign shall be permitted for nonresidential, mixed use, or multifamily developments only. (2) Sign shall be permitted at entryways or gateways to subdivisions or neighborhoods only.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-5. General Sign Standards

Illumination.

1.
Location and Design of Light Source. Whenever an external artificial light source is used for a sign, such source shall be located, shielded, and directed so as not to be directly visible from any public street or private residence. No receptacle or device housing a permitted light source for a sign shall protrude more than twelve (12) inches from the face of the sign or building to which it is attached except if such light source is ground mounted, locked in place, and cannot be redirected.
2.
Level of Illumination. In no event shall the illumination of any sign, resulting from any internal or external artificial light source, exceed the outdoor lighting standards established in Section 10-5-7. All artificial illumination shall be so designed, located, shielded, and directed as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent property or streets.

Electronic Message Boards. Single-tenant and multi-tenant monument signs may incorporate electronic message boards in accordance with the following:

1.
The area of the sign devoted to an electronic message board shall be part of, not in addition to, the maximum sign area allowed.
2.
The maximum sign area of any sign comprised entirely of an electronic message board shall be eighty (80) percent of the maximum sign area of the single-tenant or multi-tenant sign, as applicable.
3.
The electronic message format shall conform to the following requirements:
1. a.
  The message shall contain a static message or image only and not have movement, or the appearance of movement, during the static display period.
2. b.
  The transition to change from one message or image to another shall be instant and not dissolve, fade, scroll, travel, or have similar transitions.
3. c.
  The message shall not change more frequently than once every ten (10) seconds.
4.
Electronic message boards must be equipped with a default mechanism that shall stop the messaging or freeze the image in one position when a malfunction in electronic programming occurs.
5.
Electronic message boards shall be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and is programmed to automatically dim according to light conditions.
6.
Illumination of electronic message signs shall not exceed 0.3 foot-candles over the ambient lighting conditions when measured at a distance equal to the square footage of the sign area.
7.
Illumination of electronic message signs shall not be detectable across any property line.
8.
Applications shall be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator to determine that the sign placement does not interfere with traffic control devices within three hundred (300) feet of the sign or traffic circulation upon roadways.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-6. Permanent Sign Standards

Wall Signs.

1.
Sign Area.
1. a.
  Signs Attached to a Wall With a Public Entrance or Facing a Public Right-of-Way. The maximum sign area shall be two (2) square feet for every one (1) linear foot of the exterior wall to which it is affixed. The sign shall not to exceed seventy-five (75) percent of the width of the exterior wall to which it is attached.
2. b.
  Signs Attached to Any Other Wall. The maximum sign area shall be one (1) square foot for every one (1) linear foot of the exterior wall to which it is affixed. The sign shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the width of the exterior wall to which it is attached.
2.
Sign Height. No wall sign shall be closer than one (1) foot from the highest roofline or the top of the parapet wall or mansard roof.
3.
Projection and Clearance.
1. a.
  Projection. If the wall sign projects more than six (6) inches from the wall of the building or structure to which it is attached, it shall maintain a vertical clearance of at least eight (8) feet.
2. b.
  Maximum Projection. No wall sign shall project more than twelve (12) inches from the wall of the building or structure to which it is attached. Any sign which projects more than twelve (12) inches from the wall will be defined as a projecting sign as regulated in Section 10-6-6(D).

Figure 6.4. Wall Sign Area, Height, and Projection

1. 4.
  Number of Signs.
  1. a.
    Single tenant buildings shall be permitted a total of two (2) primary wall signs or one (1) primary wall sign per one hundred (100) linear feet of building frontage. One (1) additional wall sign shall be allowed per additional hundred (100) feet of building frontage. Only one (1) primary wall sign shall be displayed on any single building façade.
  2. b.
    Multi-tenant buildings shall be permitted one (1) wall sign per unit.
  3. c.
    A maximum of two (2) secondary wall signs may be authorized for buildings with lineal frontage in excess of seventy-five (75) feet by the Zoning Administrator provided such additional signage is:
    (1)
    In keeping with the overall design and architecture of the building,
    (2)
    A minimum of ten (10) feet from the primary wall sign and other secondary wall signs,
    (3)
    A maximum of fifty (50) percent of the size of the primary wall sign,
    (4)
    Accessory to the building’s primary wall sign(s), and
    (5)
    The total area of all primary and secondary wall signs does not exceed the maximum wall sign area as established in Section 10-6-6(A)(1).
2. 5.
  Sign Copy. If the sign copy utilized on a wall sign is either individually affixed letters, raceway letters, applied vinyl, or printed, etched, or otherwise incorporated directly on the sign’s backing plate, the Zoning Administrator may approve an increase in sign copy area up to an additional five (5) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
3. 6.
  Other Provisions. No wall sign shall be affixed to HVAC screening, elevator overrun, or other features protruding from the roof of the structure.

Figure 6.5. Secondary Wall Sign Standards

B.
Monument Signs.
1. 1.
  General Monument Sign Standards
  1. a.
    Sign Materials. The following classes of sign materials shall be utilized in the determination of allowed sign area and sign height as detailed in Sections 10-6-3(A) and 10-6-3(B).
    (1)
    Base Quality Materials.
    (a)
    Stone veneer systems,
    (b)
    Fiber cement,
    (c)
    Wood,
    (d)
    EIFs,
    (e)
    Precast panels, or
    (f)
    Other as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
    (2)
    High Quality Materials.
    (a)
    Masonry,
    (b)
    Natural stone,
    (c)
    Steel/wrought iron, or
    (d)
    Other as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
1. 1. b.
    Landscape.
    (1)
    All monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area at the base of the sign.
    (2)
    The minimum area of the landscape area shall be equal to half (1/2) of the square footage of the sign area of the associated sign.
    (3)
    Landscape areas shall be planted with one (1) shrub or native grass, per every three (3) square feet of required landscape area.
    (4)
    Required shrubs and native grasses shall be approved by the Zoning Administrator as a landscape plan.
1. 2.
  Single-Tenant Monument Signs.
  1. a.
    Sign Dimensions.
    (1)
    Base Quality Single-Tenant Monument Signs. Single-tenant monument signs utilizing base quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of single-tenant monument signs shall not exceed eight (8) feet.
    (2)
    High Quality Single-Tenant Monument Signs. Single-tenant monument signs utilizing high quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed forty-eight (48) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of single-tenant monument signs shall not exceed twelve (12) feet.
  2. b.
    Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) single-tenant monument sign shall be permitted per every eight-hundred (800) continuous, linear feet of lot frontage.
  3. c.
    Location. Single-tenant monument signs shall be located the minimum distance established below per district type from property lines, rights-of-way, and utility easements, shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system, and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
    (1)
    Residential Districts: Ten (10) feet
    (2)
    Nonresidential Districts: Five (5) feet
  4. d.
    Landscape Requirement. All single-tenant monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area meeting the requirements of Section 10-6-6(B)(1)(b) at the base of the sign.

Figure 6.6. Single-Tenant Monument Sign Standards

1. 3.
  Multi-Tenant Monument Signs.
  1. a.
    Sign Dimensions.
    (1)
    Base Quality Multi-Tenant Monument Signs. Multi-tenant monument signs utilizing base quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of multi-tenant monument signs shall not exceed ten (10) feet.
    (2)
    High Quality Multi-Tenant Monument Signs. Multi-tenant monument signs utilizing high quality sign materials shall meet the following dimensional standards.
    (a)
    Sign Area. The maximum sign area shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
    (b)
    Sign Height. The maximum sign height of multi-tenant monument signs shall not exceed fourteen (14) feet.
  2. b.
    Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) multi-tenant monument sign shall be permitted per lot frontage.
  3. c.
    Location. Multi-tenant monument signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and rights-of-way, shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
  4. d.
    Landscape Requirement. All multi-tenant monument signs shall be required to plant and maintain a landscape area meeting the requirements of Section 10-6-6(B)(1)(b) at the base of the sign.
  5. e.
    Signs Within Landscaped Medians. Any multi-tenant monument sign within a landscaped median shall be located outside vision clearance areas as specified in Section 10-5-6.

Figure 6.7. Multi-Tenant Monument Sign Standards

C.
Awning/Canopy Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of awning/canopy signs shall be fifty (50) percent of the face of the awning or canopy upon which the sign shall be printed or affixed. The area of the awning or canopy sign copy shall count towards the maximum amount of sign area permitted for wall signs as detailed in Section 10-6-6(A)(1).
2. 2.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Signs required for public health, safety, and welfare that are posted on awnings/canopies, like “clearance” signs, shall not count towards allowed sign area.
  2. b.
    Awning/canopy signs shall only be permitted on awnings/canopies extending above ground floor entrances or windows.

Figure 6.8. Awning/Canopy Sign Standards

D.
Projecting Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum permitted sign copy area of projecting signs shall be sixteen (16) square feet.
2. 2.
  Height. Projecting signs shall not extend above the roofline of the building to which it is attached, or a maximum of twelve (12) feet, whichever is less.
3. 3.
  Clearance. Projecting signs shall maintain a minimum vertical clearance of eight (8) feet.
4. 4.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) projecting sign shall be permitted per ground floor nonresidential tenant space. A projecting sign and a wall sign may be displayed on the same building frontage. A projecting sign and an awning or canopy sign shall not be displayed on the same building frontage.
5. 5.
  Projection.
  1. a.
    Signs which project over a public right-of-way may horizontally project a maximum of four (4) feet from the mean elevation of the building to which it is attached.
  2. b.
    Signs which project over private property may horizontally project a maximum of eight (8) feet from the mean elevation of the building to which it is attached.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions. Projecting signs may encroach upon, extend, or project over a public right-of-way or easement. The property owner may be required to provide a release or hold harmless to the City prior to issuing permits for any such signs.

Figure 6.9. Projecting Sign Standards

E.
Window Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum permitted sign area of a window sign shall be fifty (50) percent of the square footage of the individual window on which the sign shall be located.

Figure 6.10. Window Sign Standards

F.
On-Site Traffic Directional Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of on-site traffic directional signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet. Permitted on-site traffic directional sign area shall not count towards aggregate sign area.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of on-site traffic directional signs shall not exceed four (4) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. The permitted number of on-site traffic directional signs shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator as necessary to assist in the safe movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic on a property.

Figure 6.11. On-Site Traffic Directional Sign Standards

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-7. Temporary Sign Standards

General Standards for Permitted Temporary Signs.

1.
Concurrent Display. A maximum of two (2) permitted temporary signs, as permitted per district, may be displayed per lot concurrently, with the exception of feather signs as detailed in Section 10-6-7(D).

Wall Mounted Banner Signs.

1.
Sign Area.
1. a.
  The maximum sign area of wall mounted banner signs in residential districts or the B-1, B-2, A-1, OS, and PI Districts shall not exceed seven and one-half (7.5) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
2. b.
  The maximum sign area of wall mounted banner signs in the B-3, M-1, and M-2 Districts shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the total area of the face of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
2.
Sign Height. No wall mounted banner sign shall protrude above the highest roofline or above the top of the parapet wall or mansard roof.
3.
Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) wall mounted banner sign shall be permitted per lot frontage of a single-tenant building or unit of a multi-tenant building.
4.
Location. Wall mounted banner signs shall be affixed to a building.
5.
Projection. Wall mounted banner signs shall be affixed flat against the building to which they are mounted.
6.
Duration. Wall-mounted banner signs shall be limited to ninety (90) days in any calendar year.

Figure 6.12. Wall-Mounted Banner Sign Standards

C.
Ground Mounted Banner Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of a ground mounted banner sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a ground mounted banner sign shall not exceed six (6) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) ground mounted banner sign shall be permitted per lot frontage.
4. 4.
  Location. Ground mounted banner signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
5. 5.
  Duration. Ground mounted banner signs shall be limited to ninety (90) days in any calendar year.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Ground mounted banner signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Ground mounted banner signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.13. Ground-Mounted Banner Sign Standards

D.
Feather Sign.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum sign area of feather signs shall not exceed twenty six (26) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a feather sign shall not exceed twelve (12) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs.
  1. a.
    A maximum of three (3) feather signs sixteen (16) square feet or less shall be permitted per lot frontage. Only one (1) feather sign shall be permitted per frontage when the sign is over sixteen (16) square feet in area.
  2. b.
    For multi-tenant buildings, only one (1) feather sign is permitted per business.
4. 4.
  Location.
  1. a.
    Feather signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system, and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
  2. b.
    For multi-tenant buildings, feather signs must be twenty-five (25) feet from any other feather sign.
5. 5.
  Duration.
  1. a.
    The permitted display period of a feather sign shall be a maximum of thirty (30) consecutive days.
  2. b.
    A total of three (3) nonconcurrent display periods shall be permitted per property per calendar year.
  3. c.
    Nonconcurrent display periods shall be separated by a minimum of thirty (30) days.
6. 6.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Feather signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Feather signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.14. Feather Sign Standards

E.
A-Frame/Sandwich Board Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Area. The maximum allowed sign area of a-frame/sandwich board signs shall be eight (8) square feet.
2. 2.
  Height. The maximum allowed height of a a-frame/sandwich board sign shall be four (4) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) a-frame/sandwich board sign shall be permitted per ground floor nonresidential tenant space.
4. 4.
  Location.
  1. a.
    A-frame/sandwich board signs shall be placed in a manner that preserves a continuous sidewalk width of a minimum of three (3) feet.
  2. b.
    No part of any a-frame/sandwich board sign shall block points of ingress or egress.
  3. c.
    All a-frame/sandwich board signs shall be within seven-hundred fifty (750) feet of the entrance of the associated business.
5. 5.
  Other Provisions For Parcels within the Downtown Overlay District.
  1. a.
    A-frame/sandwich board signs shall be on-premises signs only, with the exception of B-2 zoned parcels.
  2. b.
    The property owner of B-2 zoned parcels may locate an A-Frame/Sandwich Board sign off premise within the public right-of-way within the Downtown Overlay District. The owner shall be required to provide a release or hold harmless to the City prior to the display of any such signs located within a public right-of-way.
6. 6.
  Duration of Display. The display of a-frame/sandwich board signs shall only be permitted during the operating hours of the use to which the sign is associated.

Figure 6.15. A-Frame/Sandwich Board Sign Standards

F.
Post Signs.
1. 1.
  Sign Copy Area.
  1. a.
    The maximum sign copy area of a post sign in a residential zoning district shall not exceed six (6) square feet.
  2. b.
    The maximum sign copy area of a post sign in a nonresidential zoning district shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a post sign shall not exceed six (6) feet.
3. 3.
  Number of Signs. A maximum of one (1) post sign shall be allowed per lot frontage.
4. 4.
  Location. Post signs shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from all property lines and shall not block points of ingress or egress, be placed in any sidewalk or pedestrian circulation system and shall not be located in a vision clearance area as detailed in Section 10-5-6.
5. 5.
  Other Provisions.
  1. a.
    Post signs shall be securely anchored into the ground or secured in a portable base designed for such function.
  2. b.
    Post signs shall be maintained in good condition and shall not sag, lie on the ground, be torn, or otherwise kept in a disorderly state.

Figure 6.16. Post Sign Standards

G.
Cold Air Inflatables. Cold air inflatable signs shall be allowed in all districts with the exception of residential districts.
1. 1.
  Duration. Cold air inflatable signs shall be allowed once per calendar year for a maximum of seventy-two (72) hours.
2. 2.
  Sign Height. The maximum height of a cold air inflatable sign shall be twenty-five (25) feet as measured from grade.
3. 3.
  Location. Inflatable signs shall not be installed below or interfere with any electrical conductors, phone conductors, CATV conductors, fire alarm conductors or any other similar installations.
4. 4.
  Supports Required. The inflatable structure shall be ground-mounted or attached to supports and guy wires ground- mounted or securely attached to the building roof. No inflatable structure shall be permitted to be secured to any mechanical equipment, parapet walls or other items normally found on the roof of a structure.
5. 5.
  Encroachment. Inflatable signs shall be anchored to prevent dislocation, entanglement or encroachment onto adjacent properties or public streets, or undue hazard to motorists or pedestrians.

Figure 6.17. Cold Air Inflatable Sign Standards

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-8. Comprehensive Sign Plan

Evaluation Criteria.

1.
Placement. All signs shall be placed where they are visible and legible. Factors to be considered include the location of a sign relative to traffic movement and access points, site features, other structures, and orientation relative to viewing distances and viewing angles. Wall Signs may be approved on building walls other than the wall of a unit of a multi-tenant building in which some units have little or no visibility from the street.
2.
Quantity. The number of signs that may be approved within any development shall be sufficient to provide necessary facilitation of internal circulation of vehicular and pedestrian traffic and wayfinding for safety of the occupants of vehicles and pedestrians. Factors to be considered shall be those that impact safety considerations such as the size of the development and the number of development sub-areas.
3.
Size. All signs shall be no larger than necessary for visibility and legibility but in no instance shall the sign area or sign height exceed the maximum established per sign type per district. Factors to be considered in determining appropriate size include topography, volume, and speed of traffic, viewing distances and angles, proximity to adjacent uses, and placement of display.

1.
Name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
2.
Location of building, structure, or lot to which or upon which the comprehensive sign plan shall apply.
3.
Name of person, firm, corporation, or association developing the comprehensive sign plan.
4.
Written consent of the owner or lessee of the building, structure, or land to which the proposed comprehensive sign plan is applicable.
5.
Scale drawing of all signs included in the comprehensive sign plan indicating the dimensions, the materials to be used, the type of illumination, if any, and the method of construction and attachment. Said drawings shall be drawn at a scale no smaller than one-eight (1/8) inch equals one (1) foot and shall be prepared, signed, and sealed by a registered professional engineer when required by the Zoning Administrator.
6.
A scale drawing indicating the location and position of all signs included in the comprehensive sign plan in relation to nearby buildings or structures. Said drawing shall be at a scale no smaller than one (1) inch equals fifty (50) feet.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-9. Prohibited Signs and Content

Prohibited Signs. The following sign types shall be prohibited in all districts:

1.
Pole/Pylon Signs
2.
Billboards
3.
Roof Signs
4.
Outline Lighting
5.
Signs located on City property without the City’s permission
6.
Signs which encroach on the public right-of-way

Prohibited Content.

1.
The following content is prohibited without reference to the viewpoint of the individual speaker:
1. a.
  Content that is prohibited or restricted per state or federal statute.
2. b.
  Text or graphics that advertise unlawful activity,
3. c.
  Text or graphics that are obscene, fighting words, defamation, incitement to imminent lawless action, or true threats, or
4. d.
  Text or graphics that present a clear and present danger due to their potential confusion with traffic control signs or signs that provide public safety information (for example, signs that use the words "Stop," "Yield," "Caution," or "Danger," or comparable words, phrases, symbols, or characters in such a manner as to imply a safety hazard that does not exist).
2.
The narrow classifications of content that are prohibited by this subsection are either not protected by the United States or Illinois Constitutions or are offered limited protection that is outweighed by the substantial governmental interests in protecting the public safety and welfare. It is the intent of the City Council that each paragraph of this Subsection be individually severable in the event that a court of competent jurisdiction were to hold one or more of them to be inconsistent with the United States or Illinois Constitutions.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

10-6-10. Safety, Maintenance, and Abandonment

It shall be the duty and responsibility of the owner or lessee of every sign to maintain the immediate premises occupied by the sign in a clean condition, free of rubbish.

Effective on: 1/1/1901