1999-069 - AMENDING TITLE 14 SIGN CODE - 08/16/1999ORDINANCE NO. 99- 69
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 14 SIGN CODE OF THE
VILLAGE OF BUFFALO GROVE MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS, the Village of Buffalo Grove is a home rule unit pursuant to the Illinois
Constitution of 1970; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD OF
TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF BUFFALO GROVE, COOK AND LAKE
COUNTIES, ILLINOIS, as follows:
SECTION 1.Title 14, Sign Code of the Village of Buffalo Grove Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Title 14
SIGN CODE
Chapters:
14.04
General Provisions
14.08
Definitions
14.12
Permits
14.20
Location and Placement
14.24
Removal
14.28
Nonconforming Signs
14.32
Special Signs
14.36
Exemptions
14.40
Prohibited Signs
14.44
Variances and Appeals
14.48
Administration and Enforcement
Chapter 14.04
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sections:
14.04.010 Short title.
14.04.020 Purpose.
14.04.010 Short title.
The ordinance codified in this Title shall be known as the "Sign Code" of the Village and
may be so cited and pleaded and shall be referred to in this Title as the "Sign Code."
14.04.020 Purpose.
A. The Sign Code creates the legal framework for signage regulations that is intended
to facilitate an easy and agreeable communication between people. It recognizes the need to protect .
the safety and welfare of the public, the need for well maintained and attractive appearance in a
community, the need for adequate business identification and advertising and communication, and
the need for promotion of aesthetic values.
B. An attractive environment maintained by quality control, through adequate
maintenance and inspection and by reasonable guidelines formulated to minimize clutter.
C. This Code authorizes the use of signs visible from public rights -of -way, provided the
signs are:
1. Compatible with their surroundings, pursuant to the objectives of proper design and
compatible with zoning regulation;
2. Allowing and promoting optimum conditions for meeting the signs user's needs while
at the same time promoting the amenable environment desired by the general public;
3. Designed, constructed, installed and maintained in such a manner that they will not
endanger public safety or traffic safety;
4. Legible, readable and visible in the circumstances in which they are used;
5. Respectful of the reasonable rights of other advertisers whose messages are displayed.
Sections:
14.08.005
14.08.010
14.08.020
14.08.025
14.08.030
14.08.040
14.08.050
Chapter 14.08
DEFINITIONS
Generally.
Abandoned sign.
Administrator.
Advertising message.
Animated sign.
Architectural blade.
Area of copy.
%1
14.08.060
Area of sign.
14.08.065
Awning.
14.08.070
Background area.
14.08.075
Banner sign.
14.08.090
Building face or wall.
14.08.095
Building frontage.
14.08.100
Building sign.
14.08.110
Canopy or marquee.
14.08.115
Canopy sign or marquee sign.
14.08.120
Changeable copy sign, manual.
14.08.125
Changing sign, automatic.
14.08.126
Civic event.
14.08.127
Collector streets.
14.08.135
Construction signs.
14.08.155
Developed parcel.
14.08.160
Directional sign.
14.08.165
Directly illuminated sign.
14.08.170
Electrical sign.
14.08.175
Electrical standards.
14.08.180
Embellishment.
14.08.185
Erected.
14.08.190
Exempt signs.
14.08.200
Face of sign.
14.08.205
Facia sign.
14.08.215
Flashing sign.
14.08.235
Frontage.
14.08.240
Ground level.
14.08.245
Ground sign.
14.08.250
Height of sign.
14.08.255
Identification sign.
14.08.260
Illuminated sign.
14.08.270
Indexing.
14.08.275
Indirectly illuminated sign.
14.08.290
Lintel.
14.08.295
Logos.
14.08.300
Lot.
14.08.305
Maintain.
14.08.310
Marquee or canopy.
14.08.315
Marquee sign or canopy sign.
14.08.320
Message.
14.08.327
Name and nature.
14.08.330
Nameplate.
14.08.340
Nonconforming sign.
14.08.350
Off - premises sign.
14.08.352
Official map.
14.08.355
On- premises sign.
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14.08.030 Animated sign.
"Animated sign" means any sign which includes action or motion. For purposes of this Title,
this term does not refer to flashing, changing or indexing, all of which are separately defined.
14.08.040 Architectural blade.
"Architectural blade" means a roof sign or projecting sign with no legs, or braces, designed
to look as though it could have been part of the building structure, rather than something suspended
from or standing on the building.
14.08.050 Area of copy.
"Area of copy" means the entire area within a single, continuous perimeter composed of
squares or rectangles, which enclose the extreme limits of the advertising message, announcement
or decoration on a facia or wall sign.
14.08.060 Area of sign.
"Area of sign" means the area of the largest single face of the sign within a perimeter which
forms the outside shape including any frame, but excluding the necessary supports or uprights on
which the sign may be placed. If the sign consists of more than one section or module, all areas will
be totaled.
14.08.065 Awning.
"Awning" means a temporary shelter supported entirely from the exterior wall of a building
and composed of nonrigid materials except for the supporting framework.
14.08.070 Background area.
"Background area" means the entire area of a sign on which copy could be placed, as
opposed to the copy area, when referred to in connection with wall signs.
14.08.075 Banner sign.
"Banner sign" means a temporary sign composed of lightweight material either enclosed or
not enclosed in a rigid frame, secured or mounted so as to allow movement of the sign caused by
movement of the atmosphere.
14.08.090 Building or face wall.
"Building or face wall" means all window and wall area of a building in one plane or
elevation.
14.08.095 Building frontage.
"Building frontage" means the linear length of a building adjacent to and facing each public
right -of -way or the linear length of each public right -of -way adjacent to and facing the building,
whichever is smaller.
14.08.100 Building sign.
"Building sign" means a sign lettered to give the name of a building itself, as opposed to the
name of occupants or services.
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14.08.110 Canopy or marquee.
"Canopy" or "marquee" means a rooflike structure of a permanent nature which projects
from the wall of a building.
14.08.115 Canopy sign or marquee sign.
"Canopy sign" or "marquee sign" means any sign attached to or constructed in or on a canopy
or marquee.
14.08.120 Changeable copy sign, manual.
"Manual changeable copy sign" means a sign on which copy is changed manually in the
field.
14.08.125 Changing sign, automatic.
"Automatic changing sign" means a sign where different copy changes are shown on the
automatic changing copy area of the sign.
14.08.126 Civic event.
"Civic event" means any event proclaimed as such by the Corporate Authority of the Village.
14.08.127 Collector streets.
"Collector streets" means roadways having continuity which carry traffic from local streets
to major streets and are indicated on the official map as collector streets.
14.08.135 Construction signs.
"Construction signs" means temporary signs intended to identify activity on a construction
site.
14.08.155 Developed parcel.
"Developed parcel" means contiguous property which includes one or more business
activities, ownership or establishments designed to be part of a common development plan whether
developed simultaneously or in stages.
14.08.160 Directional sign.
"Directional sign" means any sign which serves solely to designate the location or direction
of any place or area.
14.08.165 Directly illuminated sign.
"Directly illuminated sign" means any sign designed to provide artificial light either through
exposed lighting on the sign face or through transparent or translucent material from a light source
within the sign.
14.08.170 Electrical sign.
"Electrical sign" means any sign containing electrical wiring which is attached or intended
to be attached to an electrical energy source.
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14.08.175 Electrical standards.
Electrical standards shall conform to the Village Electrical Code.
14.08.180 Embellishment.
"Embellishment" means: letters, figures, characters or representations in cut -outs or irregular
forms or similar ornaments attached to or superimposed upon the sign.
14.08.185 Erected.
"Erected" means attached, altered, built, constructed, reconstructed, enlarged or moved, and
includes the painting of wall signs, but does not include copy changes on any sign.
14.08.190 Exempt signs.
"Exempt signs" means signs exempted from permit requirements.
14.08.200 Face of sign.
"Face of sign" means the entire area of sign on which copy could be placed.
14.08.205 Facia sign.
See "Wall sign," Section 14.08.505.
14.08.215 Flashing sign.
"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light source, or
which includes the illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation, or an externally
mounted intermittent light source. Automatic changing signs such as public service information
signs or readerboards are classified as changing signs, not flashing signs.
14.08.235 Frontage.
"Frontage" means the length of the property line of any one premises parallel to and along
each public right -of -way it borders.
14.08.240 Ground level.
"Ground level" means the approved grade adjacent to the sign.
14.08.245 Ground sign.
"Ground sign" means a sign erected on a freestanding frame, mast or pole and not attached
to any building.
14.08.250 Height of sign.
"Height of sign" means the vertical distance measured from the ground level to the highest
point of the sign.
14.08.255 Identification sign.
"Identification sign" means a sign which is limited to the name, address and number of a
building, institution, person, or entity and to the activity carried on in the building or institution, or
the occupancy of the person.
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14.08.260 Illuminated sign.
"Illuminated sign" means any sign which emanates light either by means of exposed tubing
or lamps on its surface, or by means of illumination transmitted through the sign faces.
14.08.270 Indexing.
"Indexing" means turning and stopping action of the triangular vertical sections of a multi -
prism sign designed to show three messages in the same area.
14.08.275 Indirectly illuminated sign.
"Indirectly illuminated sign" means any sign which reflects light from a source intentionally
directed upon it.
14.08.290 Lintel.
"Lintel" means the line above the display windows on a store or, if no display windows, a
line nine feet from grade.
14.08.295 Logos.
See "Embellishments," Section 14.08.180. Logos are prohibited unless incorporated into the
name of the business.
14.08.300 Lot.
"Lot" when used alone means a zoning lot unless the context of this Title clearly indicates
otherwise.
14.08.305 Maintain.
"Maintain" means to permit a sign, structure or any part of each to continue or to repair or
refurbish a sign, structure or any part of either.
14.08.310 Marquee or canopy.
"Marquee" or "canopy" means a rooflike structure of a permanent nature which projects from
the wall of a building.
14.08.315 Marquee sign or canopy sign.
"Marquee sign" or "canopy sign" means any sign attached to or constructed in or on a canopy
or marquee.
14.08.320 Message.
"Message" means the wording or copy on a sign.
14.08.327 Name and nature.
"Name and nature" means the name of the occupant and the nature of the occupant's business.
Name and nature may also include a logo, trademark, servicemark or other embellishment of such
occupant.
14.08.330 Nameplate.
"Nameplate" means a nonelectric sign identifying only the name and occupation or
profession of the occupant or premises on which the sign is located. If any premises include more
than one occupant, nameplate refers to all names and occupations or professions as well as the name
of the building and directional information.
14.08.340 Nonconforming sign.
"Nonconforming sign" means any advertising structure or sign which was lawfully erected
and maintained prior to such time as it came within the purview of this Title and which fails to
conform to all applicable regulations and restrictions of this Title.
14.08.350 Off - premises sign.
"Off- premises sign" is a sign that advertises goods, products, services or facilitates or directs
persons to a different location from where the sign is installed.
14.08.352 Official map.
"Official map" means the map which is adopted by the Village showing the area included
in the comprehensive plan.
14.08.355 On- premises sign.
"On- premises sign" means any sign identifying or advertising a business, person, activity,
goods, products or services located on the premises where the sign is installed and maintained.
14.08.365 Owner.
"Owner" means a person or entity recorded as such on official records and including duly
authorized agents, a purchaser, devisee, fiduciary, any person having a vested or contingent interest
in the property in question, and any person having beneficial interest in a land trust which is the
record owner of the property in question.
14.08.370 Parapet or parapet wall.
"Parapet" or "parapet wall" means that portion of a building wall that rises above the roof
level.
14.08.380 Person.
"Person" means any individual, corporation, association, firm, partnership, entity and the
like, singular or plural.
14.08.390 Portable sign.
"Portable sign" means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or a building.
14.08.395 Premises.
"Premises" means an area of land with its appurtenances and buildings which, because of its
unity of use, may be regarded as the smallest conveyable unit of real estate.
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14.08.400 Projecting sign.
"Projecting sign" means a sign, other than a wall sign, which is attached to and projects from
a structure or building face.
14.08.403 Public right -of -way.
Public right -of -way means all property dedicated or intended for public highways, freeways,
roadways or street purposes or subject to public easements.
14.08.410 Public service information sign.
"Public service information sign" means any automatic changing sign intended primarily to
promote noncommercial messages of general interest to the community.
14.08.415 Real estate or property for sale, rent or lease sign.
"Real estate or property for sale, rent or lease sign" means any sign pertaining to the sale,
lease or rental of land or buildings.
14.08.420 Roof line.
"Roof line" means the top edge of the roof or the top of the parapet, whichever forms the top
line of the building silhouette.
14.08.425 Roof sign.
"Roof sign" means any sign erected upon or directly above a roof or on top of or above the
parapet of a building.
14.08.430 Rotation sign.
"Rotation sign" means any sign or portion of a sign which moves in a revolving or similar
manner, but not including multi -prism indexing signs.
14.08.437 Shopping Center
A group of architecturally unified commercial establishments built on a site which is planned
and developed as an operating unit related in its location, size, and type of shops to the trade area
that the unit serves. The unit provides on -site parking in definite relationship to the total size of the
stores. A shopping center shall include all outlots and shall be considered one (1) unit regardless of
the number of different owners.
14.08.440 Sign.
"Sign" means any identification, description, illustration or illuminated device which is
visible from any public place or is located on private property and exposed to the public and which
directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution, business or solicitation,
including any permanently installed or situated merchandise or any emblem, painting, banner,
pennant, placard, or temporary sign designed to advertise, identify or convey information, with the
exception of national flags. For the purpose of removal, signs shall also include all sign structures.
10
14.08.450 Sign sticker.
"Sign sticker" means a sticker affixed either to the face or the channel of a sign denoting the
name of the manufacturer or designated servicing company for purpose of identification by Village
officials.
14.08.455 Sign structure.
"Sign structure" means any structure which supports, has supported or is capable of
supporting a sign, including decorative cover.
14.08.460 Special purpose sign.
"Special purpose sign" means any sign other than a business or identification sign including
but not limited to traffic signs.
14.08.465 Street.
"Street" means all property dedicated or intended for public highway, freeways, roadways
or street purposes or subject to public easements therefor.
14.08.470 Swinging sign.
"Swinging sign" means a sign installed on an arm or spar that is not permanently fastened
to an adjacent wall or upright pole. Swinging signs are prohibited.
14.08.475 Temporary sign.
"Temporary sign" means a sign that is for a limited period of time and which is not
permanently affixed. All devices such as banners, pennants, flags, (not intended to include flags of
any nations, countries or cities) searchlights, and balloons or other air - filled or gas- filled figures, and
all signs listed in Chapter 14.32 are examples of a temporary sign.
14.08.480 Temporary window or building sign.
"Temporary window or building sign" means a sign attached to a window or displayed on
the exterior of a building wall in order to direct attention of persons outside the building to a sale of
merchandise or a change in the status of the business.
14.08.485 Under canopy or under marquee sign.
"Under canopy or under marquee sign" means a sign suspended below the ceiling or roof of
a canopy or marquee.
14.08.490 Underwriters' Laboratories.
"Underwriters Laboratories," in the United States, means a nonprofit organization which
establishes standards for electrical and mechanical equipment and materials and is commonly
referred to as "UL."
14.08.495 Unlawful sign.
"Unlawful sign" means a sign which contravenes this Title or which the Administrator may
declare as unlawful if it becomes dangerous to public safety, or a nonconforming sign for which a
permit required under a previous code was not obtained.
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14.08.500 Use.
"Use" means the purpose for which a building, lot, sign or other structure is arranged, is
intended, designed occupied or maintained.
14.08.505 Wall sign.
"Wall sign" means a sign attached to or erected against the wall of a building with the face
parallel to the plane of the building wall.
14.08.510 Window sign.
"Window sign" means a sign installed on a window for the purposes of viewing from outside
the premises. This term does not include merchandise located in a window.
14.08.515 Zoning lot.
"Zoning lot" means an area with fixed boundaries which is or may be occupied by a use,
building, or buildings, including the open spaces required by this Title.
Chapter 14.12
PERMITS
Sections:
14.12.010
Required - -Time limit for completion of work.
14.12.020
Permit application Procedure.
14.12.030
Fees.
14.12.040
Issuance.
14.12.050
Appeals.
14.12.060
Inspection.
14.12.070
Effect of issuance.
14.12.080
Sign contractor registration -- Required
14.12.090
Sign contractor registration -- Insurance.
14.12.100
Sign contractor registration -- Indemnification.
14.12.110
Permission to install required.
14.12.010 Required - -Time limit for completion of work.
Except or as otherwise provided in this Title it is unlawful for any person to erect, construct,
enlarge, move or convert any sign in the Village, or cause the same to be done, without first
obtaining a sign permit for each such sign from the Administrator. These directives shall not be
construed to require any permit for cleaning and other normal maintenance or repair of a sign
structure for which a permit has previously been issued, so long as the sign or sign structure is not
modified in any way. No new permit is required for signs which have permits and which conform
with the requirements of this Title on the date of its adoption unless and until the sign is altered or
relocated. If the sign is not fully erected within one hundred twenty days, the permit is voidable.
14.12.020 Permit application procedure.
A. Permit Application. Application for a permit shall be made to the Administrator upon
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a form provided by the Administrator and shall be accompanied by such information as may be
required to assure compliance with all appropriate ordinances and regulations of the Village,
including, but not by way of limitations:
1. Name and address of the owner of the sign;
2. Name and address of owner or the person in possession of the premises where the sign
is located or to be located;
3. Clear and legible drawings with description definitely showing location of the sign
which is the subject of the permit and all other existing signs whose construction requires permits,
when such signs are on the same premises or zoning lot;
4. Drawings showing the dimensions, colors, construction supports, sizes, electrical wiring
and components, materials of the sign and method of attachment and character of structural members
to which the attachment is to be made. The design, quality, materials and loading shall conform to
the requirements of the Village. If required by the Administrator, engineering data shall be supplied
on plans submitted and certified by a duly licensed engineer;
5. Permit fees as specified in Section 14.12.030.
B. Permit Approval Procedure. Approval of sign permits shall be governed by the
following procedures and requirements:
1. Following receipt of required permit application materials, the Administrator shall
undertake a review of the proposed signage for compliance with the Village's Appearance Plan, this
Title and the ordinances of the Village.
2. The Administrator shall approve or deny all sign permits which require no variances
from the provisions of this Title.. If a sign permit is denied, appeal may be made as provided in
Section 14.12.050.
3. The Administrator shall approve or deny all sign permits for special signs, as provided
in Chapter 14.32, which require no variations from the provisions of this Title.
4. Where sign permits require variance to the provisions of this Title, the Administrator
shall conduct a complete review of the proposed signage and transmit recommendations thereon to
the Zoning Board of Appeals.
5. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall hear requests for variances in accordance with
Chapter 14.44 of this Title. If a sign permit requiring a variance is approved by the Zoning Board
of Appeals, the Administrator shall issue a permit. If a sign permit requiring a variance is denied,
appeal may be made as provided in Chapter 14.44 of this Title.
14.12.030 Fees.
A. Fees shall be as specified in the following schedule:
1. Wall signs, non - illuminated, thirty -two dollars and fifty cents plus twenty -five cents
per square foot of larger face, plus fifty dollar plan review fee;
2. Wall signs, illuminated, forty-five dollars and fifty cents plus twenty -five cents per
square foot of larger face, plus fifty dollar plan review fee;
3. Ground signs, sixty -five dollars plus twenty -five cents per square foot of larger face,
plus fifty dollar plan review fee;
4. Boulevard banners, forty -five dollars;
5. Banners, pennants, searchlights, balloons or gas - filled figures, twenty -five dollars;
6. Temporary identification sign, twenty -five dollars;
7. Permit renewal for special signs, fifty dollars;
B. With regard to the fee for two -sided signs, the fee shall relate to only one face of the
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sign but be calculated on whichever is the largest exposed face of the sign.
C. When any sign is hereafter erected, placed, installed, or otherwise established on any
property prior to obtaining permits as required by this Chapter, the fees specified hereunder shall be
doubled, but the payment of such double fee shall not relieve any person from complying with the
provisions or from penalties prescribed in this Title.
14.12.040 Issuance.
A. The Aministrator shall issue a permit for the erection, alteration or relocation of a sign
within the Village when an application therefor has been properly made and approved, and the sign
complies with all appropriate ordinances of the Village.
B. The Administrator may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under the
provisions of this Chapter whenever the permit is issued on the basis of a mis- statement of fact or
fraud. When a sign permit is denied by the Administrator, the Administrator shall give written notice
of the denial to the applicant, together with a brief written statement of the reasons for the denial.
14.12.050 Appeals.
A. Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Administrator in regard to the denial of
a sign permit shall have the right to appeal to the Village Manager or designee. Such appeal shall
be taken by filing with the Administrator, within 15 days after notice of denial, a written statement
setting forth the grounds for appeal. The Village Manager or designee may approve, overrule or
modify the decision of the Administrator.
B. Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Village Manager or designee shall have
the right to appeal to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Such appeal shall be taken by filing with the
Village Manager or designee, within 15 days of notice of denial, a written statement setting forth the
grounds for appeal. The Zoning Board of Appeals may approve, overrule or modify the decision of
the Village Manager or designee.
14.12.060 Inspection.
The person erecting, altering or relocating a sign shall notify the Administrator upon completion
of the work for which permits are required.
A. Inspections. All ground signs shall be subject to a footing inspection and all signs to
a final inspection by the Administrator. Said inspection will verify proper location and compliance
with all approved specifications and conditions of the permit.
B. Maintenance. Every sign in the Village, including but not limited to those signs for
which no permits or permit fees are required, shall be maintained in good condition at all times. The
Administrator shall inspect and have the authority to order the painting, repair, alteration or removal
of signs which become dilapidated or are abandoned, or which constitute physical hazard to the
public safety.
C. Signs Declared Unlawful. The Administrator may declare any sign unlawful if it
endangers public safety. Any such declaration shall state the reasons of the Administrator for stating
that the sign constitutes a safety hazard to the general public.
14.12.070 Effect of issuance.
No permit for a sign issued hereunder shall be deemed to constitute permission or authorization
to maintain an unlawful sign nor shall any permit issued hereunder constitute a defense in an action
to abate an unlawful sign.
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14.12.080 Sign contractor registration -- Required.
A. Sign contractors are to be registered. No person shall perform any work or service for
any person or for any government entity for compensation, in or in connection with the erection,
construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, improvement, maintenance, conversion or
manufacture of any sign in the Village, or any work or service in connection with causing any such
work to be done unless such person shall first have been registered as a sign contractor with the
Administrator and paid the registration fees provided for by the Village or shall be represented by
a duly registered agent or subcontractor.
B. Before any manufacturer can engage in the manufacturing of an electrical sign, they
must demonstrate the ability to meet or conform to the Underwriters' Laboratory electrical signs
specification, or some similar electrical labeling requirement.
14.12.090 Sign contractor registration -- Insurance.
Every applicant for registration shall, before such registration is granted, file with the Village a
satisfactory certificate of insurance to indemnify the Village against any form of liability to a
minimum of five hundred thousand dollars, or shall be responsible through any agent or
subcontractor. The insurance shall be maintained in full force and effect during the term of the
registration and said insurance policy or certificate shall provide that the Village be notified of any
cancellation of the insurance ten days prior to the date of cancellation.
14.12.100 Sign contractor registration -- Indemnification.
As a condition to registration under Section 14.12.080, all persons engaged in the business of
installing or maintaining signs which involves, in whole or part, the erection, alteration, relocation,
maintenance of a sign or other sign work in or over or immediately adjacent to a public right -of -way
or public property is used or encroached upon by the sign installer, shall agree to hold harmless and
indemnify the Village, its officers, agents or employees, from any and all claims of negligence
resulting from the erection, alteration, relocation, maintenance of a sign or other sign work insofar
as this Title has not specifically directed the placement of a sign.
14.12.110 Permission to install required.
No person shall erect, construct or maintain any sign upon any property or building without the
written consent of the owner, or their authorized representatives.
Chapter 14.20
LOCATION AND PLACEMENT
Sections:
14.20.010
Residential Districts.
14.20.020
Office and Research Districts.
14.20.030
Business Districts
14.20.050
Industrial District.
14.20.060
Uniform sign package.
14.20.070
Ground signs.
14.20.080
Wall signs.
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14.20.100
Canopy or marquee signs.
14.20.110
Awnings.
14.20.130
Directional signs.
14.20.140
Embellishments.
14.20.150
Illumination.
14.20.160
Window signs.
14.20.170
Boulevard banners.
14.20.180
Temporary identification signs.
14.20.190
Interior management information sign.
14.20.010 Residential Districts.
Within any residential district, signs or nameplates are permitted as follows:
A. In Residential Zoning Districts R -E to R -7, for each single family home or duplex
house, one nameplate not exceeding a combined area of two square feet for each occupancy. Said
nameplate shall not be subject to the permit requirements of this Title;
B. In Multiple - Family Dwelling Districts R -8 and R -9, for multiple - family uses, one
identification sign for each developed parcel, not exceeding thirty-two square feet in area and subject
to normal permit requirements;
C. For nonresidential uses, one identification sign for each developed parcel not
exceeding a total of sixteen square feet in area for all signs and subject to normal permit
requirements;
D. Identification signs, bulletin boards, and other similar structures for governmental
agencies which may be regulated by the Village are subject to approval thereof by the Administrator
and normal permit requirements;
E. All signs shall be placed flat against a building or designed as part of an architectural
feature thereof except that signs may be detached if they do not exceed a height of five feet nor
project into any required building setback area.
14.20.020 Office and Research District.
Within the Office and Research Zoning District, signs are subject to the following:
A. One identification sign and one bulletin board for each developed parcel not to
exceed a total of thirty -two square feet in area for all displays;
B. All signs shall be placed flat against a building or designed as part of an architectural
feature thereof. Signs may also be detached if they do not exceed a height of eight feet nor project
into any required building setback area.
14.20.030 Business Districts.
Within the Business Districts B -1 to B -4, signs are permitted as follows:
A. One ground sign indicating the name and nature of the uses of the developed parcel;
provided, however, that all limitations of Sections 14.20.070 through 14.20.160 are applicable;
B. No ground sign shall be located nearer than ten feet to the property line;
C. One wall sign indicating only the name and nature of the occupancy, for each
occupancy within the developed parcel. Said sign shall not exceed a total area of three square feet
of copy for each lineal foot of occupant's store frontage or that area of copy permitted in Section
14.20.080, whichever is the lesser. Any occupancy within another occupancy shall not be allowed
any ground or wall sign. If such occupancy is on a corner, one wall sign will be permitted for each
16
M
face. If the building includes a canopy, each occupant will be permitted one canopy sign in
conformity with Section 14.20.100;
D. No ground sign shall exceed the height, area or setback established in Section
14.20.070.
14.20.050 Industrial District.
Within the Industrial District, signs are permitted as follows:
A. One ground sign indicating only the name and nature of the occupancy for each
occupant within the developed parcel; provided, however, that all limitations of Sections 14.20.070
through 14.20.150 are applicable;
B. One wall sign indicating only the name and nature of the occupancy, for each
occupancy within the developed parcel. Said sign shall not exceed a total area of three square feet
of copy for each linear foot of building occupancy or that area of copy permitted in Section
14.20.080, whichever is lesser. If such occupancy is on a comer, one wall sign will be permitted for
each face. If the building includes a canopy, each tenant will be permitted one under canopy sign in
conformity with Section 14.20.070;
C. No ground sign shall exceed the height or area established by Section 14.20.070;
D. No ground sign shall be located nearer than ten feet to the property line.
14.20.060 Uniform sign package.
The builder, developer or management of all developed parcels shall be required to submit a
uniform sign package which must be compatible and harmonious with the architectural scheme of
the development and comply with all the requirements of this Title. Once said package has been
approved by the Village, any permits for individual signs conforming to said sign package as
approved shall be issued by the Administrator.
14.20.070 Ground signs.
A. Number of Ground signs. One ground sign is permitted for each developed parcel
unless provided otherwise in this Title; provided, that no such sign may be closer than two hundred
fifty feet to any permanent ground sign within the Village on the same side of the street. One
additional ground sign may be erected for each additional five hundred feet of street frontage in
excess of the first three hundred feet of street frontage abutting the developed portion of said parcel.
B. Area of Ground Signs. The maximum area of a ground sign shall not exceed one
hundred twenty square feet for each face of a double -faced sign or for the sole face of a single -faced
ground sign. The maximum permitted area of ground signage for a given parcel shall be determined
as follows. For parcels with street frontage of less than eight hundred feet, one sign with a maximum
area as set forth below for the first three hundred feet of street frontage or actual street frontage if
less than three hundred feet. For parcels with street frontage of eight hundred feet or more, the
maximum permitted area of ground signs shall be determined by dividing the total frontage abutting
a developed parcel into a number of segments equal to the number of signs permitted under
subsection A of this section. For each such segment of frontage, one ground sign may be erected
with a maximum area as set forth below:
17
Property Frontage
(Lineal Feet)
1 -199
200 -399
400 -599
600 -799
Maximum Permitted
Area of Sign
(Square Feet)
60
80
100
120
C. Where a developed parcel fronts on more than one street, excluding alleys and
service ways, said parcel may accumulate frontage from the major streets and collector streets
abutting the developed parcel to meet the requirements of subsection B of this section.
D. No ground sign may exceed in height the distance measured from any portion of the
sign to the nearest property line; provided, however, that the maximum height of any ground sign
or sign structure shall be twenty feet.
E. A ground sign must be set back from the public right -of -way from which it is
intended to be viewed the same distance as any setback line required in any residentially zoned
property facing the same public right -of -way within one hundred feet from the sign. This provision
affects only signs on commercial and industrial premises on the same block and on the same right -
of -way as residential premises.
F. Where a ground sign projects over a vehicular traffic area, such as driveway or
parking lot aisle, the minimum clearance between the bottom of the sign and the ground sign shall
be fourteen feet.
G. All ground signs are to be landscaped around the base.
14.20.080 Wall signs.
The following provisions apply to all wall signs except those provided for in Section 14.080.060:
A. Sign area refers to the area of the background of the sign with the exception of
individual letters. The letters must fit into a rectangle with the length of the rectangle being not
greater than one -third of the occupants store frontage, and the height of the rectangle being not
greater than one -half of the portion of the building above the lintel.
1. CATEGORY 1: Where an advertiser has no ground or roof sign on the same
premises, thirty-three percent of the wall sign background may be used for copy of enclosed sign;
2. CATEGORY 2: Where an advertiser has its own ground sign but no roof sign, twenty
percent of the wall sign background area may be used for copy or enclosed sign.
B. Where individual mounted letters are used without a sign background, the foregoing
percentages will apply, but will be computed on the area of the total facade between the lintel and
the floor level above a multi storied building.
C. The frontage factor is relative to each tenant's building frontage facing each public
right -of -way, excluding alleys and service ways.
D. Premises fronting on more than one public right -of -way may not combine
permissible signs for one frontage with another frontage for the purpose of placing the combined
area of signs on one frontage.
18
14.20.100 Canopy or marquee signs.
Canopy signs are allowed only upon approval by the Village. Such signs shall be subject to the
following conditions:
A. Area of copy may be three square feet per linear foot of canopy front and sides. Copy
area or any part of copy area allowed for one facing cannot be added to that allowed for other
facings, subject to minimum height limit of nine feet from the sidewalk. Copy may be installed
above, on the face of, or below the canopy proper; provided, that where such sign is installed above
or below, copy area will be computed on the total of the sign face and the canopy apron proper.
B. On places of public entertainment such as theaters, arenas, meeting halls, etc., where
one or more changeable copy signs are allowed, the copy area allowance will be five square feet per
linear foot of canopy with a maximum total height limit of no more than five feet at any point.
C. In business and industrial districts the maximum copy area of canopy signs shall be
two square feet subject to the same conditions as subsection A of this section.
D. Signs attached to the underside of the canopy shall have a copy area of no greater
than six square feet, with a maximum letter height of nine inches, subject to a minimum clearance
of eight feet from the sidewalk and shall be mounted as nearly as possible to right angles of the
building face.
14.20.110 Awnings.
A sign, identification emblem, insignia, initial or other similar feature not exceeding an area of
eight square feet, may be painted, placed or installed on any awning; provided, that any sign,
emblem, insignia or other such similar item shall comply with all other provisions of the Title.
14.20.130 Directional signs.
One such sign is permitted near each driveway. Area of each sign may not exceed twelve square
feet. Maximum permitted height shall be four feet.
14.20.140 Embellishments.
No embellishment and/or advertising is allowed unless approved by the Village.
14.20.150 Illumination.
Reflection lights shall be permitted on ground signs and wall signs; provided, however, the
reflectors shall concentrate the illumination upon the area of the sign so as to prevent glare upon the
street or adjacent property. The reflectors shall be shielded or otherwise optically controlled so as
to not create a nuisance on adjacent property.
14.20.160 Window signs.
No window surface shall be covered by any type of window sign regardless of the material, in
excess of forty percent of the total window surface area.
14.20.170 Boulevard Banners
A. Location and Dimensions.
1. Boulevard Banners are permitted only as a temporary sign for developments classified
as a shopping center in the B -1, B -2, B -3 B -4, and B -5 zoning districts.
2. A boulevard banner shall only be displayed on a light pole and shall not extend higher
than the light pole. The lower bracket used to display the banner must be installed at a height of at least
19
eight (8) feet in an area accessible to pedestrians; or twelve (12) feet in an area accessible to vehicles.
3. Boulevard banners shall only be displayed on privately owned light poles located in the
parking lots or along the driveways of the center. In no instance shall a boulevard banner be installed
closer than ten (10) feet from the property line or extended between two (2) light poles.
4. Display brackets must be removed when not in use or folded against the light pole.
B. Number.
1. Each individual boulevard banner shall be considered a single boulevard banner for
purposes of this Section. Two (2) boulevard banners displayed on a single light pole shall be
considered two (2) separate boulevard banners. No more than two (2) boulevard banners shall be
displayed on a single light pole and in no instance shall a boulevard banner be installed closer than one
hundred (100) feet from any other light pole on which a boulevard banner(s) is installed.
2. Boulevard banners may not exceed twenty -one (2 1) square feet per face and shall have
no more than two (2) sign faces. Only the area of the actual boulevard banner itself shall be counted
in determining the area of the sign face.
C. Copy.
Boulevard banners of the type permitted by this Section may display the name and /or logo of the
Center, the address or location of the Center, seasonal messages or graphics, and information
announcing Civic events.
D. Permits and Inspections.
1. A permit shall be required for the installation of boulevard banners for each ninety (90)
day period.
2. Boulevard banners which display a seasonal/holiday message or event must be removed
within thirty (30) days after the passing of the event or season/holiday. When not in use, the permittee
shall remove the brackets or fold the brackets against the light pole.
3. All boulevard banners must be maintained in a safe and aesthetically pleasing condition.
Boulevard banners which become illegible, are damaged or otherwise in poor condition, must be
removed.
14.20.180 Temporary Identification Signs
A. A temporary identification sign for a new business shall be allowed subject to the
following: No temporary business sign shall exceed the allowable copy area, size or setback
requirements applicable to a permanent business sign. Every new temporary identification sign for a
new business shall be removed within sixty (60) days or immediately after installation of the
permanent business sign, whichever occurs first.
B. Temporary replacement identification signs. When construction activities or exterior
facade renovations to an existing building require the temporary removal of existing permanent signs,
temporary identification signs shall be allowed as permitted in Subsection A. In addition to the
requirements in Subsection A, the words "Open During Construction" shall be permitted on temporary
replacement identification signs. Said temporary sign shall be removed immediately after installation
of the permanent sign or within fourteen (14) days after completion of construction activities or
exterior facade renovations, whichever is less.
14.20.190 Interior Management Information Sign
In every building containing leasable office space, a sign shall be conspicuously placed in the
lobby or entrance way of said building which shall indicate the name, address, and telephone number
of the leasing agent and the management company.
20
Sections:
14.24.010
14.24.020
14.24.030
14.24.040
14.24.050
14.24.060
Chapter 14.24
REMOVAL
Maintenance and repair required.
Abandoned signs.
Dangerous or defective signs.
Street improvement projects.
Removal by the administrator.
Disposal - Assessment of costs.
14.24.010 Maintenance and repair required.
Every sign, including but not limited to those signs for which permits or for which no permit
or permit fees are required, shall be maintained in a safe, presentable and good structural material
condition at all times, including the replacement of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning,
and other acts required for the maintenance of said sign. The Administrator shall require compliance
with all standards of this Title. If the sign is not made to comply with adequate safety standards the
Administrator shall require its removal in accordance with this Chapter.
14.24.020 Abandoned signs.
Except as otherwise provided in this Title, any sign which is located on property which becomes
vacant and unoccupied for a period of three months or more, or any sign which pertains to a time,
event or purpose which no longer applies, shall be deemed to have been abandoned. Permanent signs
applicable to a business temporarily suspended because of a change of ownership or management
of such business shall not be deemed abandoned unless the property remains vacant for a period of
six months or more. An abandoned sign is prohibited and shall be removed by the owner of the sign
or owner of the premises.
14.24.030 Dangerous or defective signs.
No person shall maintain or permit to be maintained on any premises owned or controlled by
that person any sign which is in a dangerous or defective condition. Any dangerous or defective sign
shall be removed or repaired by the owner of the premises.
14.24.040 Street improvement projects.
Any sign projecting over a public right -of -way at the time of the effective date of the ordinance
codified in this Title which was subject to removal or relocation at the owner's expense, pursuant to
a permit or other ordinance of the Village, shall be removed by the owner or altered at the owner's
expense to comply with the regulations of this Title if, as the result of, or after completion of a street
improvement project, said sign does not or would not comply with the provisions of this Title.
14.24.050 Removal by the Administrator.
A. The Administrator shall cause to be removed any sign that endangers the public safety
such as an abandoned, dangerous, or materially, electrically or structurally defective sign or a sign
for which no permit has been issued. The Administrator shall prepare a notice which shall describe
21
the sign and specify the violation involved and which shall state that if the sign is not removed or
the violation is not corrected within fifteen days the sign shall be removed in accordance with the
provisions of this Chapter.
1. For all purposes hereinafter the owner of the premises shall be presumed to be the
owner of all signs thereon, unless the contrary appears from facts brought to the attention of the
Administrator.
2. The notice given by the Administrator shall state not only the remedial action
required to be taken, but shall also state that if such action is not taken within the time limits set forth
in this Title, the cost of correcting the unlawful feature of the sign may be assessed against the
property on which the sign is located, together with the additional five percent for inspection and
incidental costs and an additional ten percent penalty for the cost of collection, and collected in the
same manner as real estate taxes against the property.
3. In the event that the owner of the premises, or person entitled to the possession, or
the owner of the sign, fails, neglects or refuses to comply with the notice to repair, rehabilitate or
demolish the sign declared to be unlawful, the owner of the sign, the owner of the premises upon
which the sign is located, and the person entitled to possession thereof (if other than the owner of
the premises), or all or any of them, may be prosecuted for violation of this Title. The Administrator
may remove the sign declared to be unlawful.
B. All notices mailed by the Administrator shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt
requested. Any time periods provided in this Chapter shall be deemed to commence on the date of
the receipt of the certified mail or the constructive receipt of certified mail.
C. The notice shall be mailed to the owner of the property on which the sign is located,
or the owner of the sign,or the occupant of the property.
D. Any person having an interest in the sign or in the property may appeal the
determination of the Administrator ordering removal or compliance by filing a written notice of
appeal with the Corporate Authorities within fifteen days after the date of mailing this notice, or
fifteen days after receipt of the notice if the notice was not mailed.
E. Notwithstanding the above, in cases of emergency, the Administrator may cause the
immediate removal of a dangerous or defective sign without notice.
F. When it is determined by the Administrator that said sign would cause an imminent
danger to the public safety,'and contact cannot be made with a sign owner or building owner, no
written notice shall have to be served. In this emergency situation, the Administrator may correct
the danger.
14.24.060 Disposal- Assessment of costs.
A. Any sign removed by the Administrator pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter
shall become the property of the Village and may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate
by the Village. The cost of removal shall include any and all incidental expenses incurred by the
Village in connection with the sign's removal, being assessed as follows:
1. Upon removal of the sign, the Administrator shall provide a statement of all
applicable costs, fees and penalties to be assessed against the property to the Village Clerk.
2. Upon receipt of such statement, the Village Clerk shall mail a notice to the owner of
said premises, by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, notifying such owner that
the work has been performed pursuant to this Title, stating the date of performance of the work, the
nature of the work, and demanding payments of the costs thereof, together with five percent for the
inspection and the other incidental costs in connection therewith. Such notice shall state that if said
22
amount is not paid within thirty days of mailing the notice, it shall become an assessment upon and
a lien against the property of said owner, describing the same, together with a ten percent penalty,
for collection.
Sections:
14.28.010
14.28.020
14.28.030
14.28.040
14.28.050
Chapter 14.28
NONCONFORMING SIGNS
Determination and notification.
Eligibility.
Loss of status.
Maintenance and repair.
Amortization of nonconforming signs.
14.28.010 Determination and notification.
After the enactment of the ordinance codified in this Title, the Administrator shall, as soon as
practicable, survey the Village for signs which do not conform to the requirements of this Title.
Upon determination that a sign is nonconforming, the Administrator shall use reasonable efforts to
so notify either personally or in writing the user or owner of the property on which the sign is located
of the following:
A. The sign's nonconformity; and
B. Whether the sign is eligible for characterization either as a nonconforming or
unlawful sign. Failing determination of the sign owner, user, or owner of the property on which the
sign is located, the notice may be affixed in a conspicuous place to the sign or to the business
premises with which the sign is associated.
14.28.020 Eligibility.
Any sign located within the Village limits on the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in
this Title, or located in an area annexed to the Village thereafter, which does not conform with the
provisions of this Title, is eligible for characterization as a nonconforming sign and is permitted,
provided it also meets the following requirements:
A. The sign was covered by a sign permit or variance on the date of adoption of the
ordinance codified in this Title if one was required under applicable law; or
B. If no sign permit was required under applicable law for the sign in question, the sign
was in all respects in compliance with applicable law on the date of adoption of the ordinance
codified in this Title.
14.28.030 Loss of status.
A nonconforming sign shall immediately lose its nonconforming designation if-
A. The sign is altered in any way in structure or copy, except for changeable copy signs
and normal maintenance, which tends to or makes the sign less in compliance with the requirements
of this Title than it was before the alteration; or
B. The sign is relocated;
23
S
C. The sign is replaced; or
D. The sign is immediately brought into compliance with this Title with a new permit
secured therefor, or is removed.
14.28.040 Maintenance and repair.
Nothing in this Chapter shall relieve the owner or user of a nonconforming sign or owner of the
property on which the nonconforming sign is located from the provisions of this Title, regarding
safety, maintenance and repair of signs contained in this Title; provided, however, that any
repainting, cleaning and other normal maintenance or repair of the sign or sign structure shall not
modify the sign structure or copy in any way which makes it more nonconforming or the sign may
lose its nonconforming status.
14.28.050 Amortization of nonconforming signs.
A. Nonconforming signs which existed prior to October 7, 1985, shall be removed or
made to conform in accordance with the following schedule:
If the original
value is:
Less than $5,000
$5,001 to $15,000
$15,001 to $25,000
$25,001 to $35,000
$35,001 to $45,000
$45,001 or more
The amortization
period is:
2 years
3 years
4 years
5 years
6 years
7 years
B. The time periods in the aforementioned schedule shall commence October 7, 1985.
This section shall not affect those signs which became nonconforming because of Ordinance No. 85-
60, as codified in this Title.
Chapter 14.32
SPECIAL SIGNS
Sections:
14.32.010 Subdivision development signs.
14.32.020 Signs for special events.
14.32.030 Construction signs,
14.32.040 For rent, sale or lease signs.
14.32.010 Subdivision development signs.
The Administrator may issue a permit for a sign in any zoning district in connection with the
marketing of lots or structures in a subdivision, subject to the following conditions:
A. Time Limit. Such permits may be issued for a period not to exceed one year. The
Administrator may renew such permits for additional periods of up to one year for each permit upon
24
written application at least thirty days prior to its expiration. Upon the sale (transfer of title) of the
lot upon which the sign is located, the sign shall be removed.
B. Type of Sign. Signs as used in this Chapter refer to all types of signs except signs
exempted under Chapter 14.36 and those prohibited under Chapter 14.40.
C. Legend. The sign may contain advertising in connection with the name of the
subdivision, development firm, building contractor or real estate sales firm.
D. Location. No subdivision development sign shall exceed in height the distance
measured from the property line or be less than ten feet from the property line. No such sign shall
be permitted to remain in a subdivision for the purpose of advertising the sale of lots or structures
in another subdivision, or another unit within the same subdivision, without the express permission
of the Administrator.
E. Size. The area of the sign shall not exceed eight feet in width, including supports;
twelve feet in height, measured from grade to the top of the sign; and sixty -four square feet in area
of copy.
14.32.020 Signs for special events.
Temporary signs not in excess of thirty -two square feet in area may be erected as participation
in a public parade, public event or public celebration for a period not to exceed ten days; provided,
however, the erection of such sign shall be approved by the Administrator.
14.32.030 Construction signs.
One construction sign per construction project not exceeding sixteen square feet in existing
residential developments or thirty -two square feet in sign area in new residential developments or
sixty-four square feet in commercial or industrial districts are permitted; provided, that such signs
shall be erected no more than five days prior to the beginning of construction for which a valid
building permit has been issued, shall be confined to the site of construction and shall be removed
five days after completion of construction. Construction sign copy shall be limited to the
identification of the project, contractors, architect and/or engineer, financial institution, leasing agent
and owner.
14.32.040 For Rent, Sale or Lease Signs:
The Administrator may issue a permit for a "For Rent, Sale or Lease" sign in any zoning district,
subject to the following conditions:
A. Time Limit. Such permits may be issued for a period not to exceed one (1) year. The
Administrator may renew such permits for one (1) additional period of up to six (6) months for each
permit upon written request from the landlord at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the
current permit.
B. Location. A "For Rent, Sale or Lease" sign shall not exceed in height the distance
measured from the property line or be located less than ten (10) feet from the property line.
C. Number and Size. Only one (1) sign shall be allowed per total frontage as shown in
the table below. The maximum permitted area of a "For Rent, Sale or Lease" sign for a given parcel
shall be determined as follows:
25
Maximum Permitted
Property Frontage Area of Sign
(Lineal Feet) (Square Feet)
1-199 16
200-399 32
400-599 48
600-799 64
D. Materials. Signs shall be constructed with a minimum of one -half (' /z) inch material
suitable for outdoor use. Supports shall be a minimum of four (4) inch by four (4) inch painted
wood posts. All exposed portions of the sign, not containing copy, shall be painted.
Chapter 14.36
EXEMPTIONS
Sections:
14.36.010 Designated.
14.36.010 Designated.
The following signs are exempt from Sections 14.12.010, 14.12.030 (except subsection C), and
14.12.090 through 14.12.110:
A. Directional or Instructional Signs. Signs which provide direction or instruction and
are located entirely on the property to which they pertain and do not in any way advertise a business
and do not exceed four square feet in area, signs identifying rest rooms, public telephones,
walkways, or signs providing direction such as parking lot entrance and exit signs and those of
similar nature ;
B. Flags. One of each of the following: the flag, emblem or insignia or any nation,
political subdivision or corporation;
C. Government Signs. Governmental signs for control of traffic and other regulatory
purposes, street signs, danger signs, railroad crossing signs, and signs of public service companies
indicating danger and aids to service or safety which are erected by or on the order of a public officer
in the performance of his or her public duty;
D. Holiday Decorations. Signs of a primarily decorative nature, incidental to the season
or commonly associated with any national, state, local or religious holiday or civic event: provided,
that such signs shall be displayed for a period of not more than sixty consecutive days nor more than
sixty days in any one year. Such signs shall be set back ten feet from all property lines of the lot;
provided, that a clear area be maintained to a height of seventy two inches, within fifty -five feet of
the intersection of two streets, a railroad and a street, and a street and driveway.This sub - section shall
not apply to boulevard banners. (Section 14.20.170);
E. House Numbers, Name Plates and Plaques. House numbers, name plates and plaques
not exceeding two square feet in area for each residential building;
0
F. Interior Signs. Signs located within the interior of any building or stadium, or within
any enclosed lobby or court of any building, and signs located within the inner or outer lobby, court
or entrance of any theater, that are not visible from the public right -of -way. This does not however,
exempt such signs from the structural, electrical or material specifications as set out in this Title;
G. Memorial Signs. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and date of erection
when cut into any masonry surface or inlaid so as to be part of the building or when constructed of
bronze or other incombustible material;
H. No- Trespassing or No- Dumping Signs. No- trespassing or no- dumping signs not to
exceed one and one -half square feet in area per sign, and not exceeding four in number per lot,
except that special permission may be obtained from the Administrator for additional signs and at
the Administrator's discretion;
I. Notice Bulletin Boards. Notice bulletin boards not over twenty -four square feet in area
for medical, public, charitable or religious institutions where the same are located on the premises
of said institution;
J. Occupant Signs. One sign for each dwelling unit not to exceed two square feet in area
indicating the name and/or address of the occupant;
K. Political and Campaign Signs. Political and campaign signs on behalf of candidates
for public office or measures on election ballots are subject to Section 14.40.070. Said signs may be
erected not earlier than thirty days prior to said election and shall be removed within seven days
following said election. Said signs are also subject to the following regulations:
1. Residential, Office and Research and Industrial Zoned Lot. The total area of all
political and campaign signs on a residential, office and research and industrial zoning lot shall not
exceed fifty square feet. No sign shall exceed fifteen square feet or a height of four feet;
2. Business Zoned Lot. Political and campaign window signs only shall be allowed on
a business zoning lot. No window surface shall be covered by any type of window sign in excess of
thirty -three and one -third percent of the total window surface area;
L. Public Notices. Official notices posted by public officers or employees in the
performance of their duties;
M. Public Signs. Signs required or specifically authorized for a public purpose by any law,
statute or ordinance, which may be of any type, number, area, height above grade, location,
illumination, or animation, required by the law, statute or ordinance under which the signs are
erected;
N. Real Estate Signs.
1. One real estate sign on any lot or parcel, provided such sign is located entirely within
the property to which the sign applies, is not directly illuminated, does not exceed six square feet in
area, and is removed within seven days after the purchase agreements, rental or lease has been
entered into;
2. Real estate open house signs (in addition to real estate signs in subdivision 1 of this
subsection) on any lot or parcel; provided, that each sign is not directly illuminated and does not
exceed six square feet in area. Such signs are only allowed on Saturdays and Sundays between the
hours of twelve to six p.m.;
O. Symbols or Insignia. Religious symbols, commemorative plaques or identification
emblems of religious orders or recognized service organizations; provided that no such symbol,
plaque or identification emblems shall exceed four square feet in area;
P. Temporary Signs. Temporary signs not exceeding thirty -two square feet in area
pertaining to drives or events of civic, philanthropic, educational or religious organizations;
27
provided, that said signs are posted only during said drive or no more than fifteen days before said
event and are removed no more than two days after an event;
Q. Warning Signs. Signs warning the public of the existence of danger, but containing
no advertising material, of a size as may be necessary, to be removed upon subsistence of danger;
R. Temporary Window Signs. Temporary window signs are subject to limitation as set
forth in Section 14.20.160;
S. Residential Districts. Nothing herein shall be construed to limit the display of
noncommercial signs that contain constitutionally protected content.
Sections:
14.40.010
14.40.020
14.40.025
14.40.030
14.40.040
14.40.060
14.40.070
14.40.080
14.40.090
14.40.100
14.40.110
14.40.120
14.40.125
14.40.130
14.40.140
14.40.145
14.40.150
Chapter 14.40
PROHIBITED SIGNS
Generally.
Animated and intensely lighted signs.
Changeable Copy Signs
Posters and bills.
Moving signs.
Parking of advertising vehicles prohibited.
Public areas.
Banners.
Flags.
Swinging signs.
"A" frame signs.
Portable signs.
Roof Signs
Visible frames.
Flashing lights.
Off - premises signs.
Unclassified signs.
14.40.010 Generally.
The types of signs set forth in this Chapter are expressly prohibited in all districts, except as
otherwise provided by this Title.
14.40.020 Animated and intensely lighted signs.
No sign shall be permitted which is animated by means of flashing, scintillating, blinking or
traveling lights or any other means not providing constant illumination.
14.40.025 Changeable copy signs.
All manual changeable copy signs and automatic changing signs are prohibited with the
exception of public time, temperature and date signs.
28
14.40.030 Posters and bills.
The tacking, posting or otherwise affixing of signs visible from a public way, located on the
walls of buildings, barns, sheds, on trees, poles, posts, fences, or other structures is prohibited unless
otherwise permitted by this Title.
14.40.040 Moving signs.
Except as otherwise provided in the Title, no sign pr any portion thereof shall be permitted
which moves or assumes any motion consisting of a nonstationary or fixed condition except for the '
rotation of barber poles or permissible changing signs. This section is not meant to prohibit any form
of vehicular signage such as a sign attached to a bus or lettered on a motor vehicle.
14.40.060 Parking of advertising vehicles prohibited.
No person shall park any vehicle or trailer on a public right -of -way or public property or on
private property so as to be visible from a public right -of -way, which has attached thereto or located
thereon any sign or advertising device for the basic purpose of providing advertisement of products
or directing people to a business or activity located on the same or nearby property or any other
premises. This section is not intended to prohibit any form of vehicular signage such as a sign
attached to a bus or lettered on a motor vehicle.
14.40.070 Public areas.
A. No sign shall be permitted which is placed on any crosswalk, curb, curbstone,
sidewalk, post, pole, stake, electrolier, hydrant, bridge, tree or other surface located on public
property or over and across any street or public thoroughfare except as otherwise expressly
authorized by this Title in Sections 14.36.010(A), Directional or Instructional Signs, 14.36.010(C),
Governmental Signs, 14.36.010(M), Public Notices, 14.3 6.01 O(N), Public Signs, and subsection B
of this section.
B. Signs shall be allowed in the public areas designated in subsection A of this section
so long as they meet the following requirements:
1. Nonilluminated, single - or double -faced ground sign;
2. Not exceed the height of thirty -six inches above the top of the curb;
3. Not exceed six square feet in area;
4. Only allowed on Sundays between the hours of twelve to six p.m.;
5. No Village sign permit will be required for a sign under this section.
C. Any sign located on public property in violation of this section may be removed by
the Village. The person responsible for any such illegal sign shall be liable for the costs incurred in
the removal thereof and the Village is authorized to effect the collection of said cost. The remedy
is not exclusive. The Village reserves the right to prosecute violators as set forth in Chapter 1.08 of
this Code.
D. Nothing in this section shall apply to the painting of house numbers upon curbs or
curbstones,
14.40.080 Banners.
Banners, pennants, searchlights, balloons or other gas - filled figures may be used as follows:
A. Signs described above may be displayed to publicize a sale or business event for two
separate periods not to exceed ten consecutive days each in one calender year on each developed
parcel.
29
B. Signs described above may be displayed at the opening of a new business in the
business, industrial or office and research district for a single period not to exceed fifteen days.
C. In business, industrial or office research districts, gas or air -filled figures in excess of
twenty -seven cubic feet or which have a cross - sectional dimension greater than three feet are
expressly prohibited. Balloons may be utilized but not aggregated or grouped together in excess of
twenty -seven cubic feet and in no event shall have a cross - sectional dimension greater than three
feet.
D. Permits are required for signs listed in sections above.
14.40.090 Flags.
Flags other than those of any nation, state or political subdivision or corporate flag are
prohibited except as set forth in subsection B of Section 14.40.080.
14.40.100 Swinging signs.
Swinging signs are prohibited.
14.40.110 "A" frame signs.
All frame or sandwich board, sidewalk or curb signs are prohibited.
14.40.120 Portable signs.
Portable or wheeled signs are prohibited. This shall not be interpreted to prohibit lettering on
motor vehicles or permissible advertising on buses.
14.40.125 Roof signs.
All roof signs are prohibited.
14.40.130 Visible frames.
Visible angle iron frames or structures to support projecting signs are prohibited.
14.40.140 Flashing lights.
Flashing lights or flashing signs located inside a premises are expressly prohibited if visible
from a right -of -way. Exception, holiday lights that flash on/off.
14.40.145 Off - premises signs.
All off - premises signs are prohibited.
14.40.150 Unclassified signs.
The following signs are also prohibited, which:
A. Bear or contain statement, words or pictures or an obscene, pornographic, immoral
character, or which contain advertising matter which is untruthful;
B. Are painted or attached to any fence or any wall which is not structurally a part of the
building, except to identify a residence or residence structure by means of posting the name of the
occupant or structure, and the street address;
C. Operate or employ any stereopticon or motion picture projection or media in
conjunction with any advertisements or have visible moving parts or any portion of which moves,
or gives the illusion of motion except as permitted in this Title;
30
D. Emit audible sound, odor or visible matter;
E. Signs for advertising which purport to be, or are an imitation of, or resemble an official
traffic sign or signal, or which bear the words "Stop," "Go Slow," "Caution," "Danger," "Warning,"
or similar words;
F. Signs, which by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner
of illumination, may be confused with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal or device, or a
warning sign, or the light of an emergency or road equipment vehicle, or which hide from view any
traffic or street sign or signal or device.
Sections:
14.44.010
14.44.030
14.44.040
14.44.050
14.44.060
14.44.070
Chapter 14.44
VARIANCES AND APPEALS
Variance - Conditions for granting.
Notice of hearing.
Hearings.
Hearing minutes and decision.
Appeals.
Variances by Corporate Authorities.
14.44.010 Variance- Conditions for granting.
A. The Village Zoning Board of Appeals may recommend approval or disapproval of a
variance from the provisions or requirements of this Title only where:
1. The literal interpretation and strict application of the provisions and requirements of
this Title would cause undue and unnecessary hardships to the sign user because of unique or
unusual conditions pertaining to the specific building or parcel or property in question; and
2. The granting of the requested variance would not be materially detrimental to the
property owners in the vicinity; and
The unusual conditions applying to the specific property do not apply generally to
other properties in the Village; and
4. The granting of the variance will not be contrary to the general objective of this Title
of moderating the size, number and obtrusive placement of signs and the reduction of clutter.
B. Where there is insufficient evidence, in the opinion of the Zoning Board of Appeals,
to support a finding of "undue and unnecessary hardship" under subsection A of this section, but
some hardship does exist, the Zoning Board of Appeals may consider the requirement fulfilled if:
1. The proposed signage is of particularly good design and in particularly good taste; and
2. The entire site has been or will be particularly well - landscaped;
C. In recommending approval of a sign permit requiring a variance, the Zoning Board
of Appeals may attach thereto such conditions regarding the location, character and other features
of the proposed sign as it may deem necessary to carry out the spirit and purpose of this Title in the
public interest.
D. No variance shall be valid for a period longer than six months unless a permit for said
erection or alteration is obtained within such period and such erection or alteration is started and
proceeds to completion in accordance with the terms of such permit.
31
� t
E. Where the business use associated with the variance thereafter terminates or changes,
such termination or change of use shall operate as a termination of the variance and the sign
thereafter shall conform to the provisions and requirements of this Title.
14.44.030 Notice of hearing.
The Zoning Board of Appeals shall hear variances within sixty days of the filing of the variance
request. Notice of the hearing on variance shall be given by the Zoning Board of Appeals not less
than fifteen days prior to the hearing to:
A. The applicant, in writing, at the address given on the request;
B. The Administrator, in writing;
C. To any person filing a written statement in opposition to the applicant's position;
D. Any person filing a written request with the Village for special notice of the Zoning
Board of Appeal's hearings in the six months following giving of the request;
E. To the public by posting a copy of the notice of hearing in a conspicuous place within
the Village hall;
F. To the property owners in the vicinity of the property which is concerned in the
variance by posting a placard in a conspicuous place on or within fifty feet of the property
concerned;
G. To property owners of record within two- hundred and fifty feet by mail;
H. By legal notice published at least once in one or more newspapers with a general
circulation within the Village. Such notices and placard shall be in a form prescribed by the Zoning
Board of Appeals and shall set forth the time, place and purpose of the hearing.
14.44.040 Hearings.
All hearings of the Zoning Board of Appeals shall be open to the public and those in attendance
shall be afforded an opportunity, the length and conditions of which shall be prescribed by the
Zoning Board of Appeals, to speak on issues to be determined. The applicant and Administrator shall
be afforded an opportunity to address the board on any matter at issue. Any party or interested
person may be represented by another at the hearing.
14.44.050 Hearing minutes and decision.
The Zoning Board of Appeals shall keep minutes of its proceedings and shall cause to be kept
a record of the hearing together with its findings of fact in support of that decision, all of which shall
be open to public inspection. Copies of decisions on petitions for variances shall be mailed or
delivered to the applicant, to the Administrator and to persons filing requests for special notice of
hearings pursuant to Section 14.44.030(D).
14.44.060 Appeals.
An appeal of any Zoning Board of Appeals decision may be taken by any interested person to
the Corporate Authorities. A written request for appeal must be served on the Administrator within
fifteen days of the decision.
14.44.070 Variances by Corporate Authorities.
The Corporate Authorities may determine and vary the application of any of the regulations of
this Title in harmony with its general purpose and intent in cases where there are practical difficulties
or particular hardships in the way of carrying out the strict letter of its requirements.
32
A 11 J
Chapter 14.48
ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
Sections:
14.48.010
Administrative authority.
14.48.020
Conflict of provisions.
14.48.030
Violation - Penalty.
14.48.010 Administrative authority.
The Administrator is authorized and directed to enforce and carry out all provisions of this Title.
The Administrator is authorized to promulgate procedures consistent with the purpose of this Title,
toward that end. The Administrator is further empowered to delegate the duties and powers granted
to and imposed upon him or her under this Title. As used in this Title, "Administrator" shall include
the Administrator's authorized representative.
14.48.020 Conflict of provisions.
If any portion of this Title is found to be in conflict with any other provision of any other
ordinance of the Village, the provision which establishes the higher standard shall prevail.
14.48.030 Violation - Penalty.
Any violation of the provisions of this Title shall be punished according to the provisions of
Chapter 1.08.
SECTION 2. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage, approval
and publication. This ordianance may be published in pamphlet form.
AYES: 5 - Marienthal, Braiman, Hendricks, Glover, Berman
ABSENT: 0 - None
PASSED: August 16, 1999
APPROVED: August 16, 1999
PUBLISHED: August 17, 1999
APPROVED:
LIOTT HARTSTEIN, VILLAGE PRESIDENT
33
4 r
ATTEST:
VILL LERK
Date: August 2, 1999
34
VILLAGE OF BUFFALO GROVE
ORDINANCE NO. -ZY
ADOPTED BY THE PRESIDENT
AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE
OF BUFFALO GRO Q
THIS DAY OF
Published in pamphlet form by authority of the
President and Board of Trustees of the Village
of Buffalo Grove, Cook & Lake Cou ties, inois,
this day of h 19
Village C erkk((
By ��j� �VeZ'0 �
eputy Village Clerk
ORDINANCE NO. 99- 69
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 14 SIGN CODE OF THE
VILLAGE OF BUFFALO GROVE MUNICIPAL CODE
WHEREAS, the Village of Buffalo Grove is a home rule unit pursuant to the Illinois
Constitution of 1970; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD OF
TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF BUFFALO GROVE, COOK AND LAKE
COUNTIES, ILLINOIS, as follows:
SECTION i.Title 14, Sign Code of the Village of Buffalo Grove Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Title 14
SIGN CODE
1
Chapters:
14.04
General Provisions
14.08
Definitions
14.12
Permits
14.20
Location and Placement
14.24
Removal
14.28
Nonconforming Signs
14.32
Special Signs
14.36
Exemptions
14.40
Prohibited Signs
14.44
Variances and Appeals
14.48
Administration and Enforcement
1
W
Chapter 14.04
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Sections:
14.04.010 Short title.
14.04.020 Purpose.
14.04.010 Short title.
The ordinance codified in this Title shall be known as the "Sign Code" of the Village and
may be so cited and pleaded and shall be referred to in this Title as the "Sign Code."
14.04.020 Purpose.
A. The Sign Code creates the legal framework for signage regulations that is intended
to facilitate an easy and agreeable communication between people. It recognizes the need to protect
the safety and welfare of the public, the need for well maintained and attractive appearance in a
community, the need for adequate business identification and advertising and communication, and
the need for promotion of aesthetic values.
B. An attractive environment maintained by quality control, through adequate
maintenance and inspection and by reasonable guidelines formulated to minimize clutter.
C. This Code authorizes the use of signs visible from public rights -of -way, provided the
signs are:
1. Compatible with their surroundings, pursuant to the objectives of proper design and
compatible with zoning regulation;
2. Allowing and promoting optimum conditions for meeting the signs user's needs while
at the same time promoting the amenable environment desired by the general public;
3. Designed, constructed, installed and maintained in such a manner that they will not
endanger public safety or traffic safety;
4. Legible, readable and visible in the circumstances in which they are used;
5. Respectful of the reasonable rights of other advertisers whose messages are displayed.
Sections:
14.08.005
14.08.010
14.08.020
14.08.025
14.08.030
14.08.040
14.08.050
Chapter 14.08
DEFINITIONS
Generally.
Abandoned sign.
Administrator.
Advertising message.
Animated sign.
Architectural blade.
Area of copy.
2
M
14.08.060
Area of sign.
14.08.065
Awning.
14.08.070
Background area.
14.08.075
Banner sign.
14.08.090
Building face or wall.
14.08.095
Building frontage.
14.08.100
Building sign.
14.08.110
Canopy or marquee.
14.08.115
Canopy sign or marquee sign.
14.08.120
Changeable copy sign, manual.
14.08.125
Changing sign, automatic.
14.08.126
Civic event.
14.08.127
Collector streets.
14.08.135
Construction signs.
14.08.155
Developed parcel.
14.08.160
Directional sign.
14.08.165
Directly illuminated sign.
14.08.170
Electrical sign.
14.08.175
Electrical standards.
14.08.180
Embellishment.
14.08.185
Erected.
14.08.190
Exempt signs.
14.08.200
Face of sign.
14.08.205
Facia sign.
14.08.215
Flashing sign.
14.08.235
Frontage.
14.08.240
Ground level.
14.08.245
Ground sign.
14.08.250
Height of sign.
14.08.255
Identification sign.
14.08.260
Illuminated sign.
14.08.270
Indexing.
14.08.275
Indirectly illuminated sign.
14.08.290
Lintel.
14.08.295
Logos.
14.08.300
Lot.
14.08.305
Maintain.
14.08.310
Marquee or canopy.
14.08.315
Marquee sign or canopy sign.
14.08.320
Message.
14.08.327
Name and nature.
14.08.330
Nameplate.
14.08.340
Nonconforming sign.
14.08.350
Off - premises sign.
14.08.352
Official map.
14.08.355
On- premises sign.
3
14.08.365
Owner.
14.08.370
Parapet or parapet wall.
14.08.380
Person.
14.08.390
Portable sign.
14.08.395
Premises.
14.08.400
Projection sign.
14.08.403
Public right -of -way.
14.08.410
Public service information sign.
14.08.415
Real estate or property for sale, rent or lease sign.
14.08.420
Roof line.
14.08.425
Roof sign.
14.08.430
Rotation sign.
14.08.437
Shopping center
14.08.440
Sign.
14.08.450
Sign sticker.
14.08.455
Sign structure.
14.08.460
Special purpose sign.
14.08.465
Street.
14.08.470
Swinging sign.
14.08.475
Temporary sign.
14.08.480
Temporary window or building sign.
14.08.485
Under canopy or under marquee sign.
14.08.490
Underwriters' Laboratories.
14.08.495
Unlawful sign.
14.08.500
Use.
14.08.505
Wall sign.
14.08.510
Window sign.
14.08.515
Zoning lot.
14.08.005 Generally
As used in the Title, unless the context otherwise requires, the terms defined in the this
Chapter have the meaning ascribed to them.
14.08.010 Abandoned sign.
"Abandoned sign" means a sign which no longer correctly directs or exhorts any person,
advertises a bona fide business, lessor, owner, entity, product, or activity conducted, or product
available on the premises where such sign is displayed.
14.08.020 Administrator.
"Administrator" means the Building Commissioner or his designated representative.
14.08.025 Advertising message.
"Advertising message" means that copy on a sign describing products or services being
offered to the public, but excludes logos. See also "Logo," Section 14.08.295.
11
14.08.030 Animated sign.
"Animated sign" means any sign which includes action or motion. For purposes of this Title,
this term does not refer to flashing, changing or indexing, all of which are separately defined.
14.08.040 Architectural blade.
"Architectural blade" means a roof sign or projecting sign with no legs, or braces, designed
to look as though it could have been part of the building structure, rather than something suspended
from or standing on the building.
14.08.050 Area of copy.
"Area of copy" means the entire area within a single, continuous perimeter composed of
squares or rectangles, which enclose the extreme limits of the advertising message, announcement
or decoration on a facia or wall sign.
14.08.060 Area of sign.
"Area of sign" means the area of the largest single face of the sign within a perimeter which
forms the outside shape including any frame, but excluding the necessary supports or uprights on
which the sign may be placed. If the sign consists of more than one section or module, all areas will
be totaled.
14.08.065 Awning.
"Awning" means a temporary shelter supported entirely from the exterior wall of a building
and composed of nonrigid materials except for the supporting framework.
14.08.070 Background area.
"Background area" means the entire area of a sign on which copy could be placed, as
opposed to the copy area, when referred to in connection with wall signs.
14.08.075 Banner sign.
"Banner sign" means a temporary sign composed of lightweight material either enclosed or
not enclosed in a rigid frame, secured or mounted so as to allow movement of the sign caused by
movement of the atmosphere.
14.08.090 Building or face wall.
"Building or face wall" means all window and wall area of a building in one plane or
elevation.
14.08.095 Building frontage.
"Building frontage" means the linear length of a building adjacent to and facing each public
right -of -way or the linear length of each public right -of -way adjacent to and facing the building,
whichever is smaller.
14.08.100 Building sign.
"Building sign" means a sign lettered to give the name of a building itself, as opposed to the
name of occupants or services.
5
14.08.110 Canopy or marquee.
"Canopy" or "marquee" means a rooflike structure of a permanent nature which projects
from the wall of a building.
14.08.115 Canopy sign or marquee sign.
"Canopy sign" or "marquee sign" means any sign attached to or constructed in or on a canopy
or marquee.
14.08.120 Changeable copy sign, manual.
"Manual changeable copy sign" means a sign on which copy is changed manually in the
field.
14.08.125 Changing sign, automatic.
"Automatic changing sign" means a sign where different copy changes are shown on the
automatic changing copy area of the sign.
14.08.126 Civic event.
"Civic event" means any event proclaimed as such by the Corporate Authority of the Village.
14.08.127 Collector streets.
"Collector streets" means roadways having continuity which carry traffic from local streets
to major streets and are indicated on the official map as collector streets.
14.08.135 Construction signs.
"Construction signs" means temporary signs intended to identify activity on a construction
site.
14.08.155 Developed parcel.
"Developed parcel" means contiguous property which includes one or more business
activities, ownership or establishments designed to be part of a common development plan whether
developed simultaneously or in stages.
14.08.160 Directional sign.
"Directional sign" means any sign which serves solely to designate the location or direction
of any place or area.
14.08.165 Directly illuminated sign.
"Directly illuminated sign" means any sign designed to provide artificial light either through
exposed lighting on the sign face or through transparent or translucent material from a light source
within the sign.
14.08.170 Electrical sign.
"Electrical sign" means any sign containing electrical wiring which is attached or intended
to be attached to an electrical energy source.
2
14.08.175 Electrical standards.
Electrical standards shall conform to the Village Electrical Code.
14.08.180 Embellishment.
"Embellishment" means: letters, figures, characters or representations in cut -outs or irregular
forms or similar ornaments attached to or superimposed upon the sign.
14.08.185 Erected.
"Erected" means attached, altered, built, constructed, reconstructed, enlarged or moved, and
includes the painting of wall signs, but does not include copy changes on any sign.
14.08.190 Exempt signs.
"Exempt signs" means signs exempted from permit requirements.
14.08.200 Face of sign.
"Face of sign" means the entire area of sign on which copy could be placed.
14.08.205 Facia sign.
See "Wall sign," Section 14.08.505.
14.08.215 Flashing sign.
"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light source, or
which includes the illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation, or an externally
mounted intermittent light source. Automatic changing signs such as public service information
signs or readerboards are classified as changing signs, not flashing signs.
14.08.235 Frontage.
"Frontage" means the length of the property line of any one premises parallel to and along
each public right -of -way it borders.
14.08.240 Ground level.
"Ground level" means the approved grade adjacent to the sign.
14.08.245 Ground sign.
"Ground sign" means a sign erected on a freestanding frame, mast or pole and not attached
to any building.
14.08.250 Height of sign.
"Height of sign" means the vertical distance measured from the ground level to the highest
point of the sign.
14.08.255 Identification sign.
"Identification sign" means a sign which is limited to the name, address and number of a
building, institution, person, or entity and to the activity carried on in the building or institution, or
the occupancy of the person.
7
14.08.260 Illuminated sign.
"Illuminated sign" means any sign which emanates light either by means of exposed tubing
or lamps on its surface, or by means of illumination transmitted through the sign faces.
14.08.270 Indexing.
"Indexing" means turning and stopping action of the triangular vertical sections of a multi -
prism sign designed to show three messages in the same area.
14.08.275 Indirectly illuminated sign.
"Indirectly illuminated sign" means any sign which reflects light from a source intentionally
directed upon it.
14.08.290 Lintel.
"Lintel" means the line above the display windows on a store or, if no display windows, a
line nine feet from grade.
14.08.295 Logos.
See "Embellishments," Section 14.08.180. Logos are prohibited unless incorporated into the
name of the business.
14.08.300 Lot.
"Lot" when used alone means a zoning lot unless the context of this Title clearly indicates
otherwise.
14.08.305 Maintain.
"Maintain" means to permit a sign, structure or any part of each to continue or to repair or
refurbish a sign, structure or any part of either.
14.08.310 Marquee or canopy.
"Marquee" or "canopy" means a rooflike structure of a permanent nature which projects from
the wall of a building.
14.08.315 Marquee sign or canopy sign.
"Marquee sign" or "canopy sign" means any sign attached to or constructed in or on a canopy
or marquee.
14.08.320 Message.
"Message" means the wording or copy on a sign.
14.08.327 Name and nature.
"Name and nature" means the name of the occupant and the nature of the occupant's business.
Name and nature may also include a logo, trademark, servicemark or other embellishment of such
occupant.
8
14.08.330 Nameplate.
"Nameplate" means a nonelectric sign identifying only the name and occupation or
profession of the occupant or premises on which the sign is located. If any premises include more
than one occupant, nameplate refers to all names and occupations or professions as well as the name
of the building and directional information.
14.08.340 Nonconforming sign.
"Nonconforming sign" means any advertising structure or sign which was lawfully erected
and maintained prior to such time as it came within the purview of this Title and which fails to
conform to all applicable regulations and restrictions of this Title.
14.08.350 Off - premises sign.
"Off- premises sign" is a sign that advertises goods, products, services or facilitates or directs
persons to a different location from where the sign is installed.
14.08.352 Official map.
"Official map" means the map which is adopted by the Village showing the area included
in the comprehensive plan.
14.08.355 On- premises sign.
"On- premises sign" means any sign identifying or advertising a business, person, activity,
goods, products or services located on the premises where the sign is installed and maintained.
14.08.365 Owner.
"Owner" means a person or entity recorded as such on official records and including duly
authorized agents, a purchaser, devisee, fiduciary, any person having a vested or contingent interest
in the property in question, and any person having beneficial interest in a land trust which is the
record owner of the property in question.
14.08.370 Parapet or parapet wall.
"Parapet" or "parapet wall" means that portion of a building wall that rises above the roof
level.
14.08.380 Person.
"Person" means any individual, corporation, association, firm, partnership, entity and the
like, singular or plural.
14.08.390 Portable sign.
"Portable sign" means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or a building.
14.08.395 Premises.
"Premises" means an area of land with its appurtenances and buildings which, because of its
unity of use, may be regarded as the smallest conveyable unit of real estate.
0
14.08.400 Projecting sign.
"Projecting sign" means a sign, other than a wall sign, which is attached to and projects from
a structure or building face.
14.08.403 Public right -of -way.
Public right -of -way means all property dedicated or intended for public highways, freeways,
roadways or street purposes or subject to public easements.
14.08.410 Public service information sign.
"Public service information sign" means any automatic changing sign intended primarily to
promote noncommercial messages of general interest to the community.
14.08.415 Real estate or property for sale, rent or lease sign.
"Real estate or property for sale, rent or lease sign" means any sign pertaining to the sale,
lease or rental of land or buildings.
14.08.420 Roof line.
"Roof line" means the top edge of the roof or the top of the parapet, whichever forms the top
line of the building silhouette.
14.08.425 Roof sign.
"Roof sign" means any sign erected upon or directly above a roof or on top of or above the
parapet of a building.
14.08.430 Rotation sign.
"Rotation sign" means any sign or portion of a sign which moves in a revolving or similar
manner, but not including multi -prism indexing signs.
14.08.437 Shopping Center
A group of architecturally unified commercial establishments built on a site which is planned
and developed as an operating unit related in its location, size, and type of shops to the trade area
that the unit serves. The unit provides on -site parking in definite relationship to the total size of the
stores. A shopping center shall include all outlots and shall be considered one (1) unit regardless of
the number of different owners.
14.08.440 Sign.
"Sign" means any identification, description, illustration or illuminated device which is
visible from any public place or is located on private property and exposed to the public and which
directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution, business or solicitation,
including any permanently installed or situated merchandise or any emblem, painting, banner,
pennant, placard, or temporary sign designed to advertise, identify or convey information, with the
exception of national flags. For the purpose of removal, signs shall also include all sign structures.
10
14.08.450 Sign sticker.
"Sign sticker" means a sticker affixed either to the face or the channel of a sign denoting the
name of the manufacturer or designated servicing company for purpose of identification by Village
officials.
14.08.455 Sign structure.
"Sign structure" means any structure which supports, has supported or is capable of
supporting a sign, including decorative cover.
14.08.460 Special purpose sign.
"Special purpose sign" means any sign other than a business or identification sign including
but not limited to traffic signs.
14.08.465 Street.
"Street" means all property dedicated or intended for public highway, freeways, roadways
or street purposes or subject to public easements therefor.
14.08.470 Swinging sign.
"Swinging sign" means a sign installed on an arm or spar that is not permanently fastened
to an adjacent wall or upright pole. Swinging signs are prohibited.
14.08.475 Temporary sign.
"Temporary sign" means a sign that is for a limited period of time and which is not
permanently affixed. All devices such as banners, pennants, flags, (not intended to include flags of
any nations, countries or cities) searchlights, and balloons or other air - filled or gas - filled figures, and
all signs listed in Chapter 14.32 are examples of a temporary sign.
14.08.480 Temporary window or building sign.
"Temporary window or building sign" means a sign attached to a window or displayed on
the exterior of a building wall in order to direct attention of persons outside the building to a sale of
merchandise or a change in the status of the business.
14.08.485 Under canopy or under marquee sign.
"Under canopy or under marquee sign" means a sign suspended below the ceiling or roof of
a canopy or marquee.
14.08.490 Underwriters' Laboratories.
"Underwriters Laboratories," in the United States, means a nonprofit organization which
establishes standards for electrical and mechanical equipment and materials and is commonly
referred to as "UL."
14.08.495 Unlawful sign.
"Unlawful sign" means a sign which contravenes this Title or which the Administrator may
declare as unlawful if it becomes dangerous to public safety, or a nonconforming sign for which a
permit required under a previous code was not obtained.
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14.08.500 Use.
"Use" means the purpose for which a building, lot, sign or other structure is arranged, is
intended, designed occupied or maintained.
14.08.505 Wall sign.
"Wall sign" means a sign attached to or erected against the wall of a building with the face
parallel to the plane of the building wall.
14.08.510 Window sign.
"Window sign" means a sign installed on a window for the purposes of viewing from outside
the premises. This term does not include merchandise located in a window.
14.08.515 Zoning lot.
"Zoning lot" means an area with fixed boundaries which is or may be occupied by a use,
building, or buildings, including the open spaces required by this Title.
Chapter 14.12
PERMITS
Sections:
14.12.010
Required - -Time limit for completion of work.
14.12.020
Permit application Procedure.
14.12.030
Fees.
14.12.040
Issuance.
14.12.050
Appeals.
14.12.060
Inspection.
14.12.070
Effect of issuance.
14.12.080
Sign contractor registration -- Required
14.12.090
Sign contractor registration -- Insurance.
14.12.100
Sign contractor registration -- Indemnification.
14.12.110
Permission to install required.
14.12.010 Required - -Time limit for completion of work.
Except or as otherwise provided in this Title it is unlawful for any person to erect, construct,
enlarge, move or convert any sign in the Village, or cause the same to be done, without first
obtaining a sign permit for each such sign from the Administrator. These directives shall not be
construed to require any permit for cleaning and other normal maintenance or repair of a sign
structure for which a permit has previously been issued, so long as the sign or sign structure is not
modified in any way. No new permit is required for signs which have permits and which conform
with the requirements of this Title on the date of its adoption unless and until the sign is altered or
relocated. If the sign is not fully erected within one hundred twenty days, the permit is voidable.
14.12.020 Permit application procedure.
A. Permit Application. Application for a permit shall be made to the Administrator upon
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a form provided by the Administrator and shall be accompanied by such information as may be
required to assure compliance with all appropriate ordinances and regulations of the Village,
including, but not by way of limitations:
1. Name and address of the owner of the sign;
2. Name and address of owner or the person in possession of the premises where the sign
is located or to be located;
3. Clear and legible drawings with description definitely showing location of the sign
which is the subject of the permit and all other existing signs whose construction requires permits,
when such signs are on the same premises or zoning lot;
4. Drawings showing the dimensions, colors, construction supports, sizes, electrical wiring
and components, materials of the sign and method of attachment and character of structural members
to which the attachment is to be made. The design, quality, materials and loading shall conform to
the requirements of the Village. If required by the Administrator, engineering data shall be supplied
on plans submitted and certified by a duly licensed engineer;
5. Permit fees as specified in Section 14.12.030.
B. Permit Approval Procedure. Approval of sign permits shall be governed by the
following procedures and requirements:
1. Following receipt of required permit application materials, the Administrator shall
undertake a review of the proposed signage for compliance with the Village's Appearance Plan, this
Title and the ordinances of the Village.
2. The Administrator shall approve or deny all sign permits which require no variances
from the provisions of this Title.. If a sign permit is denied, appeal may be made as provided in
Section 14.12.050.
3. The Administrator shall approve or deny all sign permits for special signs, as provided
in Chapter 14.32, which require no variations from the provisions of this Title.
4. Where sign permits require variance to the provisions of this Title, the Administrator
shall conduct a complete review of the proposed signage and transmit recommendations thereon to
the Zoning Board of Appeals.
5. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall hear requests for variances in accordance with
Chapter 14.44 of this Title. If a sign permit requiring a variance is approved by the Zoning Board
of Appeals, the Administrator shall issue a permit. If a sign permit requiring a variance is denied,
appeal may be made as provided in Chapter 14.44 of this Title.
14.12.030 Fees.
A. Fees shall be as specified in the following schedule:
1. Wall signs, non - illuminated, thirty -two dollars and fifty cents plus twenty -five cents
per square foot of larger face, plus fifty dollar plan review fee;
2. Wall signs, illuminated, forty -five dollars and fifty cents plus twenty -five cents per
square foot of larger face, plus fifty dollar plan review fee;
3. Ground signs, sixty -five dollars plus twenty -five cents per square foot of larger face,
plus fifty dollar plan review fee;
4. Boulevard banners, forty -five dollars;
5. Banners, pennants, searchlights, balloons or gas - filled figures, twenty -five dollars;
6. Temporary identification sign, twenty -five dollars;
7. Permit renewal for special signs, fifty dollars;
B. With regard to the fee for two -sided signs, the fee shall relate to only one face of the
13
sign but be calculated on whichever is the largest exposed face of the sign.
C. When any sign is hereafter erected, placed, installed, or otherwise established on any
property prior to obtaining permits as required by this Chapter, the fees specified hereunder shall be
doubled, but the payment of such double fee shall not relieve any person from complying with the
provisions or from penalties prescribed in this Title.
14.12.040 Issuance.
A. The Aministrator shall issue a permit for the erection, alteration or relocation of a sign
within the Village when an application therefor has been properly made and approved, and the sign
complies with all appropriate ordinances of the Village.
B. The Administrator may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under the
provisions of this Chapter whenever the permit is issued on the basis of a mis- statement of fact or
fraud. When a sign permit is denied by the Administrator, the Administrator shall give written notice
of the denial to the applicant, together with a brief written statement of the reasons for the denial.
14.12.050 Appeals.
A. Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Administrator in regard to the denial of
a sign permit shall have the right to appeal to the Village Manager or designee. Such appeal shall
be taken by filing with the Administrator, within 15 days after notice of denial, a written statement
setting forth the grounds for appeal. The Village Manager or designee may approve, overrule or
modify the decision of the Administrator.
B. Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Village Manager or designee shall have
the right to appeal to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Such appeal shall be taken by filing with the
Village Manager or designee, within 15 days of notice of denial, a written statement setting forth the
grounds for appeal. The Zoning Board of Appeals may approve, overrule or modify the decision of
the Village Manager or designee.
14.12.060 Inspection.
The person erecting, altering or relocating a sign shall notify the Administrator upon completion
of the work for which permits are required.
A. Inspections. All ground signs shall be subject to a footing inspection and all signs to
a final inspection by the Administrator. Said inspection will verify proper location and compliance
with all approved specifications and conditions of the permit.
B. Maintenance. Every sign in the Village, including but not limited to those signs for
which no permits or permit fees are required, shall be maintained in good condition at all times. The
Administrator shall inspect and have the authority to order the painting, repair, alteration or removal
of signs which become dilapidated or are abandoned, or which constitute physical hazard to the
public safety.
C. Signs Declared Unlawful. The Administrator may declare any sign unlawful if it
endangers public safety. Any such declaration shall state the reasons of the Administrator for stating
that the sign constitutes a safety hazard to the general public.
14.12.070 Effect of issuance.
No permit for a sign issued hereunder shall be deemed to constitute permission or authorization
to maintain an unlawful sign nor shall any permit issued hereunder constitute a defense in an action
to abate an unlawful sign.
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14.12.080 Sign contractor registration -- Required.
A. Sign contractors are to be registered. No person shall perform any work or service for
any person or for any government entity for compensation, in or in connection with the erection,
construction, enlargement, alteration, repair, moving, improvement, maintenance, conversion or
manufacture of any sign in the Village, or any work or service in connection with causing any such
work to be done unless such person shall first have been registered as a sign contractor with the
Administrator and paid the registration fees provided for by the Village or shall be represented by
a duly registered agent or subcontractor.
B. Before any manufacturer can engage in the manufacturing of an electrical sign, they
must demonstrate the ability to meet or conform to the Underwriters' Laboratory electrical signs
specification, or some similar electrical labeling requirement.
14.12.090 Sign contractor registration -- Insurance.
Every applicant for registration shall, before such registration is granted, file with the Village a
satisfactory certificate of insurance to indemnify the Village against any form of liability to a
minimum of five hundred thousand dollars, or shall be responsible through any agent or
subcontractor. The insurance shall be maintained in full force and effect during the term of the
registration and said insurance policy or certificate shall provide that the Village be notified of any
cancellation of the insurance ten days prior to the date of cancellation.
14.12.100 Sign contractor registration -- Indemnification.
As a condition to registration under Section 14.12.080, all persons engaged in the business of
installing or maintaining signs which involves, in whole or part, the erection, alteration, relocation,
maintenance of a sign or other sign work in or over or immediately adjacent to a public right -of -way
or public property is used or encroached upon by the sign installer, shall agree to hold harmless and
indemnify the Village, its officers, agents or employees, from any and all claims of negligence
resulting from the erection, alteration, relocation, maintenance of a sign or other sign work insofar
as this Title has not specifically directed the placement of a sign.
14.12.110 Permission to install required.
No person shall erect, construct or maintain any sign upon any property or building without the
written consent of the owner, or their authorized representatives.
Chapter 14.20
LOCATION AND PLACEMENT
Sections:
14.20.010
Residential Districts.
14.20.020
Office and Research Districts.
14.20.030
Business Districts
14.20.050
Industrial District.
14.20.060
Uniform sign package.
14.20.070
Ground signs.
14.20.080
Wall signs.
15
14.20.100
Canopy or marquee signs.
14.20.110
Awnings.
14.20.130
Directional signs.
14.20.140
Embellishments.
14.20.150
Illumination.
14.20.160
Window signs.
14.20.170
Boulevard banners.
14.20.180
Temporary identification signs.
14.20.190
Interior management information sign.
14.20.010 Residential Districts.
Within any residential district, signs or nameplates are permitted as follows:
A. In Residential Zoning Districts R -E to R -7, for each single family home or duplex
house, one nameplate not exceeding a combined area of two square feet for each occupancy. Said
nameplate shall not be subject to the permit requirements of this Title;
B. In Multiple - Family Dwelling Districts R -8 and R -9, for multiple - family uses, one
identification sign for each developed parcel, not exceeding thirty-two square feet in area and subject
to normal permit requirements;
C. For nonresidential uses, one identification sign for each developed parcel not
exceeding a total of sixteen square feet in area for all signs and subject to normal permit
requirements;
D. Identification signs, bulletin boards, and other similar structures for governmental
agencies which may be regulated by the Village are subject to approval thereof by the Administrator
and normal permit requirements;
E. All signs shall be placed flat against a building or designed as part of an architectural
feature thereof except that signs may be detached if they do not exceed a height of five feet nor
project into any required building setback area.
14.20.020 Office and Research District.
Within the Office and Research Zoning District, signs are subject to the following:
A. One identification sign and one bulletin board for each developed parcel not to
exceed a total of thirty -two square feet in area for all displays;
B. All signs shall be placed flat against a building or designed as part of an architectural
feature thereof. Signs may also be detached if they do not exceed a height of eight feet nor project
into any required building setback area.
14.20.030 Business Districts.
Within the Business Districts B -1 to B -4, signs are permitted as follows:
A. One ground sign indicating the name and nature of the uses of the developed parcel;
provided, however, that all limitations of Sections 14.20.070 through 14.20.160 are applicable;
B. No ground sign shall be located nearer than ten feet to the property line;
C. One wall sign indicating only the name and nature of the occupancy, for each
occupancy within the developed parcel. Said sign shall not exceed a total area of three square feet
of copy for each lineal foot of occupant's store frontage or that area of copy permitted in Section
14.20.080, whichever is the lesser. Any occupancy within another occupancy shall not be allowed
any ground or wall sign. If such occupancy is on a corner, one wall sign will be permitted for each
16
face. If the building includes a canopy, each occupant will be permitted one canopy sign in
conformity with Section 14.20.100;
D. No ground sign shall exceed the height, area or setback established in Section
14.20.070.
14.20.050 Industrial District.
Within the Industrial District, signs are permitted as follows:
A. One ground sign indicating only the name and nature of the occupancy for each
occupant within the developed parcel; provided, however, that all limitations of Sections 14.20.070
through 14.20.150 are applicable;
B. One wall sign indicating only the name and nature of the occupancy, for each
occupancy within the developed parcel. Said sign shall not exceed a total area of three square feet
of copy for each linear foot of building occupancy or that area of copy permitted in Section
14.20.080, whichever is lesser. If such occupancy is on a corner, one wall sign will be permitted for
each face. If the building includes a canopy, each tenant will be permitted one under canopy sign in
conformity with Section 14.20.070;
C. No ground sign shall exceed the height or area established by Section 14.20.070;
D. No ground sign shall be located nearer than ten feet to the property line.
14.20.060 Uniform sign package.
The builder, developer or management of all developed parcels shall be required to submit a
uniform sign package which must be compatible and harmonious with the architectural scheme of
the development and comply with all the requirements of this Title. Once said package has been
approved by the Village, any permits for individual signs conforming to said sign package as
approved shall be issued by the Administrator.
14.20.070 Ground signs.
A. Number of Ground signs. One ground sign is permitted for each developed parcel
unless provided otherwise in this Title; provided, that no such sign may be closer than two hundred
fifty feet to any permanent ground sign within the Village on the same side of the street. One
additional ground sign may be erected for each additional five hundred feet of street frontage in
excess of the first three hundred feet of street frontage abutting the developed portion of said parcel.
B. Area of Ground Signs. The maximum area of a ground sign shall not exceed one
hundred twenty square feet for each face of a double -faced sign or for the sole face of a single -faced
ground sign. The maximum permitted area of ground signage for a given parcel shall be determined
as follows. For parcels with street frontage of less than eight hundred feet, one sign with a maximum
area as set forth below for the first three hundred feet of street frontage or actual street frontage if
less than three hundred feet. For parcels with street frontage of eight hundred feet or more, the
maximum permitted area of ground signs shall be determined by dividing the total frontage abutting
a developed parcel into a number of segments equal to the number of signs permitted under
subsection A of this section. For each such segment of frontage, one ground sign may be erected
with a maximum area as set forth below:
17
u
Property Frontage
(Lineal Feet)
1 -199
200 -399
400 -599
600 -799
Maximum Permitted
Area of Sign
(Square Feet)
60
80
100
120
C. Where a developed parcel fronts on more than one street, excluding alleys and
service ways, said parcel may accumulate frontage from the major streets and collector streets
abutting the developed parcel to meet the requirements of subsection B of this section.
D. No ground sign may exceed in height the distance measured from any portion of the
sign to the nearest property line; provided, however, that the maximum height of any ground sign
or sign structure shall be twenty feet.
E. A ground sign must be set back from the public right -of -way from which it is
intended to be viewed the same distance as any setback line required in any residentially zoned
property facing the same public right -of -way within one hundred feet from the sign. This provision
affects only signs on commercial and industrial premises on the same block and on the same right -
of -way as residential premises.
F. Where a ground sign projects over a vehicular traffic area, such as driveway or
parking lot aisle, the minimum clearance between the bottom of the sign and the ground sign shall
be fourteen feet.
G. All ground signs are to be landscaped around the base.
14.20.080 Wall signs.
The following provisions apply to all wall signs except those provided for in Section 14.080.060:
A. Sign area refers to the area of the background of the sign with the exception of
individual letters. The letters must fit into a rectangle with the length of the rectangle being not
greater than one -third of the occupants store frontage, and the height of the rectangle being not
greater than one -half of the portion of the building above the lintel.
1. CATEGORY 1: Where an advertiser has no ground or roof sign on the same
premises, thirty -three percent of the wall sign background may be used for copy of enclosed sign;
2. CATEGORY 2: Where an advertiser has its own ground sign but no roof sign, twenty
percent of the wall sign background area may be used for copy or enclosed sign.
B. Where individual mounted letters are used without a sign background, the foregoing
percentages will apply, but will be computed on the area of the total facade between the lintel and
the floor level above a multi storied building.
C. The frontage factor is relative to each tenant's building frontage facing each public
right -of -way, excluding alleys and service ways.
D. Premises fronting on more than one public right -of -way may not combine
permissible signs for one frontage with another frontage for the purpose of placing the combined
area of signs on one frontage.
18
14.20.100 Canopy or marquee signs.
Canopy signs are allowed only upon approval by the Village. Such signs shall be subject to the
following conditions:
A. Area of copy may be three square feet per linear foot of canopy front and sides. Copy
area or any part of copy area allowed for one facing cannot be added to that allowed for other
facings, subject to minimum height limit of nine feet from the sidewalk. Copy may be installed
above, on the face of, or below the canopy proper; provided, that where such sign is installed above
or below, copy area will be computed on the total of the sign face and the canopy apron proper.
B. On places of public entertainment such as theaters, arenas, meeting halls, etc., where
one or more changeable copy signs are allowed, the copy area allowance will be five square feet per
linear foot of canopy with a maximum total height limit of no more than five feet at any point.
C. In business and industrial districts the maximum copy area of canopy signs shall be
two square feet subject to the same conditions as subsection A of this section.
D. Signs attached to the underside of the canopy shall have a copy area of no greater
than six square feet, with a maximum letter height of nine inches, subject to a minimum clearance
of eight feet from the sidewalk and shall be mounted as nearly as possible to right angles of the
building face.
14.20.110 Awnings.
A sign, identification emblem, insignia, initial or other similar feature not exceeding an area of
eight square feet, may be painted, placed or installed on any awning; provided, that any sign,
emblem, insignia or other such similar item shall comply with all other provisions of the Title.
14.20.130 Directional signs.
One such sign is permitted near each driveway. Area of each sign may not exceed twelve square
feet. Maximum permitted height shall be four feet.
14.20.140 Embellishments.
No embellishment and/or advertising is allowed unless approved by the Village.
14.20.150 Illumination.
Reflection lights shall be permitted on ground signs and wall signs; provided, however, the
reflectors shall concentrate the illumination upon the area of the sign so as to prevent glare upon the
street or adjacent property. The reflectors shall be shielded or otherwise optically controlled so as
to not create a nuisance on adjacent property.
14.20.160 Window signs.
No window surface shall be covered by any type of window sign regardless of the material, in
excess of forty percent of the total window surface area.
14.20.170 Boulevard Banners
A. Location and Dimensions.
1. Boulevard Banners are permitted only as a temporary sign for developments classified
as a shopping center in the B -1, B -2, B -3 B -4, and B -5 zoning districts.
2. A boulevard banner shall only be displayed on a light pole and shall not extend higher
than the light pole. The lower bracket used to display the banner must be installed at a height of at least
19
eight (8) feet in an area accessible to pedestrians; or twelve (12) feet in an area accessible to vehicles.
3. Boulevard banners shall only be displayed on privately owned light poles located in the
parking lots or along the driveways of the center. In no instance shall a boulevard banner be installed
closer than ten (10) feet from the property line or extended between two (2) light poles.
4. Display brackets must be removed when not in use or folded against the light pole.
B. Number.
1. Each individual boulevard banner shall be considered a single boulevard banner for
purposes of this Section. Two (2) boulevard banners displayed on a single light pole shall be
considered two (2) separate boulevard banners. No more than two (2) boulevard banners shall be
displayed on a single light pole and in no instance shall a boulevard banner be installed closer than one
hundred (100) feet from any other light pole on which a boulevard banner(s) is installed.
2. Boulevard banners may not exceed twenty -one (2 1) square feet per face and shall have
no more than two (2) sign faces. Only the area of the actual boulevard banner itself shall be counted
in determining the area of the sign face.
C. Copy.
Boulevard banners of the type permitted by this Section may display the name and /or logo of the
Center, the address or location of the Center, seasonal messages or graphics, and information
announcing Civic events.
D. Permits and Inspections.
1. A permit shall be required for the installation of boulevard banners for each ninety (90)
day period.
2. Boulevard banners which display a seasonal/holiday message or event must be removed
within thirty (30) days after the passing of the event or season/holiday. When not in use, the permittee
shall remove the brackets or fold the brackets against the light pole.
3. All boulevard banners must be maintained in a safe and aesthetically pleasing condition.
Boulevard banners which become illegible, are damaged or otherwise in poor condition, must be
removed.
14.20.180 Temporary Identification Signs
A. A temporary identification sign for a new business shall be allowed subject to the
following: No temporary business sign shall exceed the allowable copy area, size or setback
requirements applicable to a permanent business sign. Every new temporary identification sign for a
new business shall be removed within sixty (60) days or immediately after installation of the
permanent business sign, whichever occurs first.
B. Temporary replacement identification signs. When construction activities or exterior
facade renovations to an existing building require the temporary removal of existing permanent signs,
temporary identification signs shall be allowed as permitted in Subsection A. In addition to the
requirements in Subsection A, the words "Open During Construction" shall be permitted on temporary
replacement identification signs. Said temporary sign shall be removed immediately after installation
of the permanent sign or within fourteen (14) days after completion of construction activities or
exterior facade renovations, whichever is less.
14.20.190 Interior Management Information Sign
In every building containing leasable office space, a sign shall be conspicuously placed in the
lobby or entrance way of said building which shall indicate the name, address, and telephone number
of the leasing agent and the management company.
WE
Sections:
14.24.010
14.24.020
14.24.030
14.24.040
14.24.050
14.24.060
Chapter 14.24
REMOVAL
Maintenance and repair required.
Abandoned signs.
Dangerous or defective signs.
Street improvement projects.
Removal by the administrator.
Disposal - Assessment of costs.
14.24.010 Maintenance and repair required.
Every sign, including but not limited to those signs for which permits or for which no permit
or permit fees are required, shall be maintained in a safe, presentable and good structural material
condition at all times, including the replacement of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning,
and other acts required for the maintenance of said sign. The Administrator shall require compliance
with all standards of this Title. If the sign is not made to comply with adequate safety standards the
Administrator shall require its removal in accordance with this Chapter.
14.24.020 Abandoned signs.
Except as otherwise provided in this Title, any sign which is located on property which becomes
vacant and unoccupied for a period of three months or more, or any sign which pertains to a time,
event or purpose which no longer applies, shall be deemed to have been abandoned. Permanent signs
applicable to a business temporarily suspended because of a change of ownership or management
of such business shall not be deemed abandoned unless the property remains vacant for a period of
six months or more. An abandoned sign is prohibited and shall be removed by the owner of the sign
or owner of the premises.
14.24.030 Dangerous or defective signs.
No person shall maintain or permit to be maintained on any premises owned or controlled by
that person any sign which is in a dangerous or defective condition. Any dangerous or defective sign
shall be removed or repaired by the owner of the premises.
14.24.040 Street improvement projects.
Any sign projecting over a public right -of -way at the time of the effective date of the ordinance
codified in this Title which was subject to removal or relocation at the owner's expense, pursuant to
a permit or other ordinance of the Village, shall be removed by the owner or altered at the owner's
expense to comply with the regulations of this Title if, as the result of, or after completion of a street
improvement project, said sign does not or would not comply with the provisions of this Title.
14.24.050 Removal by the Administrator.
A. The Administrator shall cause to be removed any sign that endangers the public safety
such as an abandoned, dangerous, or materially, electrically or structurally defective sign or a sign
for which no permit has been issued. The Administrator shall prepare a notice which shall describe
21
the sign and specify the violation involved and which shall state that if the sign is not removed or
the violation is not corrected within fifteen days the sign shall be removed in accordance with the
provisions of this Chapter.
1. For all purposes hereinafter the owner of the premises shall be presumed to be the
owner of all signs thereon, unless the contrary appears from facts brought to the attention of the
Administrator.
2. The notice given by the Administrator shall state not only the remedial action
required to be taken, but shall also state that if such action is not taken within the time limits set forth
in this Title, the cost of correcting the unlawful feature of the sign may be assessed against the
property on which the sign is located, together with the additional five percent for inspection and
incidental costs and an additional ten percent penalty for the cost of collection, and collected in the
same manner as real estate taxes against the property.
3. In the event that the owner of the premises, or person entitled to the possession, or
the owner of the sign, fails, neglects or refuses to comply with the notice to repair, rehabilitate or
demolish the sign declared to be unlawful, the owner of the sign, the owner of the premises upon
which the sign is located, and the person entitled to possession thereof (if other than the owner of
the premises), or all or any of them, may be prosecuted for violation of this Title. The Administrator
may remove the sign declared to be unlawful.
B. All notices mailed by the Administrator shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt
requested. Any time periods provided in this Chapter shall be deemed to commence on the date of
the receipt of the certified mail or the constructive receipt of certified mail.
C. The notice shall be mailed to the owner of the property on which the sign is located,
or the owner of the sign,or the occupant of the property.
D. Any person having an interest in the sign or in the property may appeal the
determination of the Administrator ordering removal or compliance by filing a written notice of
appeal with the Corporate Authorities within fifteen days after the date of mailing this notice, or
fifteen days after receipt of the notice if the notice was not mailed.
E. Notwithstanding the above, in cases of emergency, the Administrator may cause the
immediate removal of a dangerous or defective sign without notice.
F. When it is determined by the Administrator that said sign would cause an imminent
danger to the public safety, 'and contact cannot be made with a sign owner or building owner, no
written notice shall have to be served. In this emergency situation, the Administrator may correct
the danger.
14.24.060 Disposal- Assessment of costs.
A. Any sign removed by the Administrator pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter
shall become the property of the Village and may be disposed of in any manner deemed appropriate
by the Village. The cost of removal shall include any and all incidental expenses incurred by the
Village in connection with the sign's removal, being assessed as follows:
1. Upon removal of the sign, the Administrator shall provide a statement of all
applicable costs, fees and penalties to be assessed against the property to the Village Clerk.
2. Upon receipt of such statement, the Village Clerk shall mail a notice to the owner of
said premises, by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, notifying such owner that
the work has been perfonned pursuant to this Title, stating the date of performance of the work, the
nature of the work, and demanding payments of the costs thereof, together with five percent for the
inspection and the other incidental costs in connection therewith. Such notice shall state that if said
22
amount is not paid within thirty days of mailing the notice, it shall become an assessment upon and
a lien against the property of said owner, describing the same, together with a ten percent penalty,
for collection.
Sections:
14.28.010
14.28.020
14.28.030
14.28.040
14.28.050
Chapter 14.28
NONCONFORMING SIGNS
Determination and notification.
Eligibility.
Loss of status.
Maintenance and repair.
Amortization of nonconforming signs.
14.28.010 Determination and notification.
After the enactment of the ordinance codified in this Title, the Administrator shall, as soon as
practicable, survey the Village for signs which do not conform to the requirements of this Title.
Upon determination that a sign is nonconforming, the Administrator shall use reasonable efforts to
so notify either personally or in writing the user or owner of the property on which the sign is located
of the following:
A. The sign's nonconformity; and
B. Whether the sign is eligible for characterization either as a nonconforming or
unlawful sign. Failing determination of the sign owner, user, or owner of the property on which the
sign is located, the notice may be affixed in a conspicuous place to the sign or to the business
premises with which the sign is associated.
14.28.020 Eligibility.
Any sign located within the Village limits on the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in
this Title, or located in an area annexed to the Village thereafter, which does not conform with the
provisions of this Title, is eligible for characterization as a nonconforming sign and is permitted,
provided it also meets the following requirements:
A. The sign was covered by a sign permit or variance on the date of adoption of the
ordinance codified in this Title if one was required under applicable law; or
B. If no sign permit was required under applicable law for the sign in question, the sign
was in all respects in compliance with applicable law on the date of adoption of the ordinance
codified in this Title.
14.28.030 Loss of status.
A nonconforming sign shall immediately lose its nonconforming designation if:
A. The sign is altered in any way in structure or copy, except for changeable copy signs
and normal maintenance, which tends to or makes the sign less in compliance with the requirements
of this Title than it was before the alteration; or
B. The sign is relocated;
23
C. The sign is replaced; or
D. The sign is immediately brought into compliance with this Title with a new permit
secured therefor, or is removed.
14.28.040 Maintenance and repair.
Nothing in this Chapter shall relieve the owner or user of a nonconforming sign or owner of the
property on which the nonconforming sign is located from the provisions of this Title, regarding
safety, maintenance and repair of signs contained in this Title; provided, however, that any
repainting, cleaning and other normal maintenance or repair of the sign or sign structure shall not
modify the sign structure or copy in any way which makes it more nonconforming or the sign may
lose its nonconforming status.
14.28.050 Amortization of nonconforming signs.
A. Nonconforming signs which existed prior to October 7, 1985, shall be removed or
made to conform in accordance with the following schedule:
If the original
value is:
Less than $5,000
$5,001 to $15,000
$15,001 to $25,000
$25,001 to $35,000
$35,001 to $45,000
$45,001 or more
The amortization
period is:
2 years
3 years
4 years
5 years
6 years
7 years
B. The time periods in the aforementioned schedule shall commence October 7, 1985.
This section shall not affect those signs which became nonconforming because of Ordinance No. 85-
60, as codified in this Title.
Chapter 14.32
SPECIAL SIGNS
Sections:
14.32.010 Subdivision development signs.
14.32.020 Signs for special events.
14.32.030 Construction signs,
14.32.040 For rent, sale or lease signs.
14.32.010 Subdivision development signs.
The Administrator may issue a permit for a sign in any zoning district in connection with the
marketing of lots or structures in a subdivision, subject to the following conditions:
A. Time Limit. Such permits may be issued for a period not to exceed one year. The
Administrator may renew such permits for additional periods of up to one year for each permit upon
Q!
written application at least thirty days prior to its expiration. Upon the sale (transfer of title) of the
lot upon which the sign is located, the sign shall be removed.
B. Type of Sign. Signs as used in this Chapter refer to all types of signs except signs
exempted under Chapter 14.36 and those prohibited under Chapter 14.40.
C. Legend. The sign may contain advertising in connection with the name of the
subdivision, development firm, building contractor or real estate sales firm.
D. Location. No subdivision development sign shall exceed in height the distance
measured from the property line or be less than ten feet from the property line. No such sign shall
be permitted to remain in a subdivision for the purpose of advertising the sale of lots or structures
in another subdivision, or another unit within the same subdivision, without the express permission
of the Administrator.
E. Size. The area of the sign shall not exceed eight feet in width, including supports;
twelve feet in height, measured from grade to the top of the sign; and sixty -four square feet in area
of copy.
14.32.020 Signs for special events.
Temporary signs not in excess of thirty-two square feet in area may be erected as participation
in a public parade, public event or public celebration for a period not to exceed ten days; provided,
however, the erection of such sign shall be approved by the Administrator.
14.32.030 Construction signs.
One construction sign per construction project not exceeding sixteen square feet in existing
residential developments or thirty -two square feet in sign area in new residential developments or
sixty-four square feet in commercial or industrial districts are permitted; provided, that such signs
shall be erected no more than five days prior to the beginning of construction for which a valid
building permit has been issued, shall be confined to the site of construction and shall be removed
five days after completion of construction. Construction sign copy shall be limited to the
identification of the project, contractors, architect and/or engineer, financial institution, leasing agent
and owner.
14.32.040 For Rent, Sale or Lease Signs:
The Administrator may issue a permit for a "For Rent, Sale or Lease" sign in any zoning district,
subject to the following conditions:
A. Time Limit. Such permits may be issued for a period not to exceed one (1) year. The
Administrator may renew such permits for one (1) additional period of up to six (6) months for each
permit upon written request from the landlord at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiration of the
current permit.
B. Location. A "For Rent, Sale or Lease" sign shall not exceed in height the distance
measured from the property line or be located less than ten (10) feet from the property line.
C. Number and Size. Only one (1) sign shall be allowed per total frontage as shown in
the table below. The maximum permitted area of a "For Rent, Sale or Lease" sign for a given parcel
shall be determined as follows:
I
Maximum Permitted
Property Frontage Area of Sign
(Lineal Feet) (Square Feet)
1 - 199 16
200-399 32
400-599 48
600-799 64 -
D. Materials. Signs shall be constructed with a minimum of one -half (' /z) inch material
suitable for outdoor use. Supports shall be a minimum of four (4) inch by four (4) inch painted
wood posts. All exposed portions of the sign, not containing copy, shall be painted.
Chapter 14.36
EXEMPTIONS
Sections:
14.36.010 Designated.
14.36.010 Designated.
The following signs are exempt from Sections 14.12.010, 14.12.030 (except subsection C), and
14.12.090 through 14.12.110:
A. Directional or Instructional Signs. Signs which provide direction or instruction and
are located entirely on the property to which they pertain and do not in any way advertise a business
and do not exceed four square feet in area, signs identifying rest rooms, public telephones,
walkways, or signs providing direction such as parking lot entrance and exit signs and those of
similar nature ;
B. Flags. One of each of the following: the flag, emblem or insignia or any nation,
political subdivision or corporation;
C. Government Signs. Governmental signs for control of traffic and other regulatory
purposes, street signs, danger signs, railroad crossing signs, and signs of public service companies
indicating danger and aids to service or safety which are erected by or on the order of a public officer
in the performance of his or her public duty;
D. Holiday Decorations. Signs of a primarily decorative nature, incidental to the season
or commonly associated with any national, state, local or religious holiday or civic event: provided,
that such signs shall be displayed for a period of not more than sixty consecutive days nor more than
sixty days in any one year. Such signs shall be set back ten feet from all property lines of the lot;
provided, that a clear area be maintained to a height of seventy two inches, within fifty -five feet of
the intersection of two streets, a railroad and a street, and a street and driveway.This sub- section shall
not apply to boulevard banners. (Section 14.20.170);
E. House Numbers, Name Plates and Plaques. House numbers, name plates and plaques
not exceeding two square feet in area for each residential building;
26
F. Interior Signs. Signs located within the interior of any building or stadium, or within
any enclosed lobby or court of any building, and signs located within the inner or outer lobby, court
or entrance of any theater, that are not visible from the public right -of -way. This does not however,
exempt such signs from the structural, electrical or material specifications as set out in this Title;
G. Memorial Signs. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and date of erection
when cut into any masonry surface or inlaid so as to be part of the building or when constructed of
bronze or other incombustible material;
H. No- Trespassing or No- Dumping Signs. No- trespassing or no- dumping signs not to
exceed one and one -half square feet in area per sign, and not exceeding four in number per lot,
except that special permission may be obtained from the Administrator for additional signs and at
the Administrator's discretion;
I. Notice Bulletin Boards. Notice bulletin boards not over twenty -four square feet in area
for medical, public, charitable or religious institutions where the same are located on the premises
of said institution;
J. Occupant Signs. One sign for each dwelling unit not to exceed two square feet in area
indicating the name and/or address of the occupant;
K. Political and Campaign Signs. Political and campaign signs on behalf of candidates
for public office or measures on election ballots are subject to Section 14.40.070. Said signs may be
erected not earlier than thirty days prior to said election and shall be removed within seven days
following said election. Said signs are also subject to the following regulations:
1. Residential, Office and Research and Industrial Zoned Lot. The total area of all
political and campaign signs on a residential, office and research and industrial zoning lot shall not
exceed fifty square feet. No sign shall exceed fifteen square feet or a height of four feet;
2. Business Zoned Lot. Political and campaign window signs only shall be allowed on
a business zoning lot. No window surface shall be covered by any type of window sign in excess of
thirty -three and one -third percent of the total window surface area;
L. Public Notices. Official notices posted by public officers or employees in the
performance of their duties;
M. Public Signs. Signs required or specifically authorized for a public purpose by any law,
statute or ordinance, which may be of any type, number, area, height above grade, location,
illumination, or animation, required by the law, statute or ordinance under which the signs are
erected;
N. Real Estate Signs.
1. One real estate sign on any lot or parcel, provided such sign is located entirely within
the property to which the sign applies, is not directly illuminated, does not exceed six square feet in
area, and is removed within seven days after the purchase agreements, rental or lease has been
entered into;
2. Real estate open house signs (in addition to real estate signs in subdivision 1 of this
subsection) on any lot or parcel; provided, that each sign is not directly illuminated and does not
exceed six square feet in area. Such signs are only allowed on Saturdays and Sundays between the
hours of twelve to six p.m.;
O. Symbols or Insignia. Religious symbols, commemorative plaques or identification
emblems of religious orders or recognized service organizations; provided that no such symbol,
plaque or identification emblems shall exceed four square feet in area;
P. Temporary Signs. Temporary signs not exceeding thirty -two square feet in area
pertaining to drives or events of civic, philanthropic, educational or religious organizations;
27
provided, that said signs are posted only during said drive or no more than fifteen days before said
event and are removed no more than two days after an event;
Q. Warning Signs. Signs warning the public of the existence of danger, but containing
no advertising material, of a size as may be necessary, to be removed upon subsistence of danger;
R. Temporary Window Signs. Temporary window signs are subject to limitation as set
forth in Section 14.20.160;
S. Residential Districts. Nothing herein shall be construed to limit the display of
noncommercial signs that contain constitutionally protected content.
Sections:
14.40.010
14.40.020
14.40.025
14.40.030
14.40.040
14.40.060
14.40.070
14.40.080
14.40.090
14.40.100
14.40.110
14.40.120
14.40.125
14.40.130
14.40.140
14.40.145
14.40.150
Chapter 14.40
PROHIBITED SIGNS
Generally.
Animated and intensely lighted signs.
Changeable Copy Signs
Posters and bills.
Moving signs.
Parking of advertising vehicles prohibited.
Public areas.
Banners.
Flags.
Swinging signs.
"A" frame signs.
Portable signs.
Roof Signs
Visible frames.
Flashing lights.
Off - premises signs.
Unclassified signs.
14.40.010 Generally.
The types of signs set forth in this Chapter are expressly prohibited in all districts, except as
otherwise provided by this Title.
14.40.020 Animated and intensely lighted signs.
No sign shall be permitted which is animated by means of flashing, scintillating, blinking or
traveling lights or any other means not providing constant illumination.
14.40.025 Changeable copy signs.
All manual changeable copy signs and automatic changing signs are prohibited with the
exception of public time, temperature and date signs.
28
14.40.030 Posters and bills.
The tacking, posting or otherwise affixing of signs visible from a public way, located on the
walls of buildings, barns, sheds, on trees, poles, posts, fences, or other structures is prohibited unless
otherwise permitted by this Title.
14.40.040 Moving signs.
Except as otherwise provided in the Title, no sign pr any portion thereof shall be permitted
which moves or assumes any motion consisting of a nonstationary or fixed condition except for the
rotation of barber poles or permissible changing signs. This section is not meant to prohibit any form
of vehicular signage such as a sign attached to a bus or lettered on a motor vehicle.
14.40.060 Parking of advertising vehicles prohibited.
No person shall park any vehicle or trailer on a public right -of -way or public property or on
private property so as to be visible from a public right -of -way, which has attached thereto or located
thereon any sign or advertising device for the basic purpose of providing advertisement of products
or directing people to a business or activity located on the same or nearby property or any other
premises. This section is not intended to prohibit any form of vehicular signage such as a sign
attached to a bus or lettered on a motor vehicle.
14.40.070 Public areas.
A. No sign shall be permitted which is placed on any crosswalk, curb, curbstone,
sidewalk, post, pole, stake, electrolier, hydrant, bridge, tree or other surface located on public
property or over and across any street or public thoroughfare except as otherwise expressly
authorized by this Title in Sections 14.36.010(A), Directional or Instructional Signs, 14.36.010(C),
Governmental Signs, 14.36.010(M), Public Notices, 14.36.010(N), Public Signs, and subsection B
of this section.
B. Signs shall be allowed in the public areas designated in subsection A of this section
so long as they meet the following requirements:
1. Nonilluminated, single - or double -faced ground sign;
2. Not exceed the height of thirty -six inches above the top of the curb;
3. Not exceed six square feet in area;
4. Only allowed on Sundays between the hours of twelve to six p.m.;
5. No Village sign permit will be required for a sign under this section.
C. Any sign located on public property in violation of this section may be removed by
the Village. The person responsible for any such illegal sign shall be liable for the costs incurred in
the removal thereof and the Village is authorized to effect the collection of said cost. The remedy
is not exclusive. The Village reserves the right to prosecute violators as set forth in Chapter 1.08 of
this Code.
D. Nothing in this section shall apply to the painting of house numbers upon curbs or
curbstones,
14.40.080 Banners.
Banners, pennants, searchlights, balloons or other gas -filled figures may be used as follows:
A. Signs described above may be displayed to publicize a sale or business event for two
separate periods not to exceed ten consecutive days each in one calender year on each developed
parcel.
29
B. Signs described above may be displayed at the opening of a new business in the
business, industrial or office and research district for a single period not to exceed fifteen days.
C. In business, industrial or office research districts, gas or air - filled figures in excess of
twenty -seven cubic feet or which have a cross - sectional dimension greater than three feet are
expressly prohibited. Balloons may be utilized but not aggregated or grouped together in excess of
twenty -seven cubic feet and in no event shall have a cross - sectional dimension greater than three
feet.
D. Permits are required for signs listed in sections above.
14.40.090 Flags.
Flags other than those of any nation, state or political subdivision or corporate flag are
prohibited except as set forth in subsection B of Section 14.40.080.
14.40.100 Swinging signs.
Swinging signs are prohibited.
14.40.110 "A" frame signs.
All frame or sandwich board, sidewalk or curb signs are prohibited.
14.40.120 Portable signs.
Portable or wheeled signs are prohibited. This shall not be interpreted to prohibit lettering on
motor vehicles or permissible advertising on buses.
14.40.125 Roof signs.
All roof signs are prohibited.
14.40.130 Visible frames.
Visible angle iron frames or structures to support projecting signs are prohibited.
14.40.140 Flashing lights.
Flashing lights or flashing signs located inside a premises are expressly prohibited if visible
from a right -of -way. Exception, holiday lights that flash on/off.
14.40.145 Off - premises signs.
All off - premises signs are prohibited.
14.40.150 Unclassified signs.
The following signs are also prohibited, which:
A. Bear or contain statement, words or pictures or an obscene, pornographic, immoral
character, or which contain advertising matter which is untruthful;
B. Are painted or attached to any fence or any wall which is not structurally a part of the
building, except to identify a residence or residence structure by means of posting the name of the
occupant or structure, and the street address;
C. Operate or employ any stereopticon or motion picture projection or media in
conjunction with any advertisements or have visible moving parts or any portion of which moves,
or gives the illusion of motion except as permitted in this Title;
30
0
D. Emit audible sound, odor or visible matter;
E. Signs for advertising which purport to be, or are an imitation of, or resemble an official
traffic sign or signal, or which bear the words "Stop," "Go Slow," "Caution," "Danger," "Warning,"
or similar words;
F. Signs, which by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner
of illumination, may be confused with or construed as a traffic control sign, signal or device, or a
warning sign, or the light of an emergency or road equipment vehicle, or which hide from view any
traffic or street sign or signal or device.
Sections:
14.44.010
14.44.030
14.44.040
14.44.050
14.44.060
14.44.070
Chapter 14.44
VARIANCES AND APPEALS
Variance - Conditions for granting.
Notice of hearing.
Hearings.
Hearing minutes and decision.
Appeals.
Variances by Corporate Authorities.
14.44.010 Variance - Conditions for granting.
A. The Village Zoning Board of Appeals may recommend approval or disapproval of a
variance from the provisions or requirements of this Title only where:
1. The literal interpretation and strict application of the provisions and requirements of
this Title would cause undue and unnecessary hardships to the sign user because of unique or
unusual conditions pertaining to the specific building or parcel or property in question; and
2. The granting of the requested variance would not be materially detrimental to the
property owners in the vicinity; and
The unusual conditions applying to the specific property do not apply generally to
other properties in the Village; and
4. The granting of the variance will not be contrary to the general objective of this Title
of moderating the size, number and obtrusive placement of signs and the reduction of clutter.
B. Where there is insufficient evidence, in the opinion of the Zoning Board of Appeals,
to support a finding of "undue and unnecessary hardship" under subsection A of this section, but
some hardship does exist, the Zoning Board of Appeals may consider the requirement fulfilled if:
1. The proposed signage is of particularly good design and in particularly good taste; and
2. The entire site has been or will be particularly well - landscaped;
C. In recommending approval of a sign permit requiring a variance, the Zoning Board
of Appeals may attach thereto such conditions regarding the location, character and other features
of the proposed sign as it may deem necessary to carry out the spirit and purpose of this Title in the
public interest.
D. No variance shall be valid for a period longer than six months unless a permit for said
erection or alteration is obtained within such period and such erection or alteration is started and
proceeds to completion in accordance with the terms of such permit.
31
E. Where the business use associated with the variance thereafter terminates or changes,
such termination or change of use shall operate as a termination of the variance and the sign
thereafter shall conform to the provisions and requirements of this Title.
14.44.030 Notice of hearing.
The Zoning Board of Appeals shall hear variances within sixty days of the filing of the variance
request. Notice of the hearing on variance shall be given by the Zoning Board of Appeals not less
than fifteen days prior to the hearing to:
A. The applicant, in writing, at the address given on the request;
B. The Administrator, in writing;
C. To any person filing a written statement in opposition to the applicant's position;
D. Any person filing a written request with the Village for special notice of the Zoning
Board of Appeal's hearings in the six months following giving of the request;
E. To the public by posting a copy of the notice of hearing in a conspicuous place within
the Village hall;
F. To the property owners in the vicinity of the property which is concerned in the
variance by posting a placard in a conspicuous place on or within fifty feet of the property
concerned;
G. To property owners of record within two- hundred and fifty feet by mail;
H. By legal notice published at least once in one or more newspapers with a general
circulation within the Village. Such notices and placard shall be in a form prescribed by the Zoning
Board of Appeals and shall set forth the time, place and purpose of the hearing.
14.44.040 Hearings.
All hearings of the Zoning Board of Appeals shall be open to the public and those in attendance
shall be afforded an opportunity, the length and conditions of which shall be prescribed by the
Zoning Board of Appeals, to speak on issues to be determined. The applicant and Administrator shall
be afforded an opportunity to address the board on any matter at issue. Any party or interested
person may be represented by another at the hearing.
14.44.050 Hearing minutes and decision.
The Zoning Board of Appeals shall keep minutes of its proceedings and shall cause to be kept
a record of the hearing together with its findings of fact in support of that decision, all of which shall
be open to public inspection. Copies of decisions on petitions for variances shall be mailed or
delivered to the applicant, to the Administrator and to persons filing requests for special notice of
hearings pursuant to Section 14.44.030(D).
14.44.060 Appeals.
An appeal of any Zoning Board of Appeals decision may be taken by any interested person to
the Corporate Authorities. A written request for appeal must be served on the Administrator within
fifteen days of the decision.
14.44.070 Variances by Corporate Authorities.
The Corporate Authorities may determine and vary the application of any of the regulations of
this Title in harmony with its general purpose and intent in cases where there are practical difficulties
or particular hardships in the way of carrying out the strict letter of its requirements.
32
Chapter 14.48
ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
Sections:
14.48.010 Administrative authority.
14.48.020 Conflict of provisions.
14.48.030 Violation - Penalty.
14.48.010 Administrative authority.
The Administrator is authorized and directed to enforce and carry out all provisions of this Title.
The Administrator is authorized to promulgate procedures consistent with the purpose of this Title,
toward that end. The Administrator is further empowered to delegate the duties and powers granted
to and imposed upon him or her under this Title. As used in this Title, "Administrator" shall include
the Administrator's authorized representative.
14.48.020 Conflict of provisions.
If any portion of this Title is found to be in conflict with any other provision of any other
ordinance of the Village, the provision which establishes the higher standard shall prevail.
14.48.030 Violation - Penalty.
Any violation of the provisions of this Title shall be punished according to the provisions of
Chapter 1.08.
SECTION 2. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage, approval
and publication. This ordianance may be published in pamphlet form.
AYES: 5 - Marienthal, Braiman, Hendricks, Glover, Berman
NAYES: 0 - None
ABSENT: 0 - None
PASSED: August 16, 1999
APPROVED:
1999
PUBLISHED: August 17, 1999
APPROVED:
LIOTT HARTSTEIN, VILLAGE PRESIDENT
33
ATTEST:
VILL LERK
Date: August 2, 1999
34