(A) The purpose and intent of this chapter is to establish comprehensive regulations for the control of street graphics in order to preserve, protect and promote the public health, safety and welfare; to eliminate pedestrian and vehicular traffic hazards; and to enhance the economic vitality and aesthetic appeal of the community.
(B) More specifically, this chapter is intended to assist in achieving the following objectives:
(1) To authorize the use of street graphics which are:
(a) Compatible with their surroundings and zoning district in which they are located;
(b) Expressive of the image this community is striving to project;
(c) Appropriate to the type of establishment or activity to which they pertain; and
(d) Legible in the circumstances in which they are seen.
(2) To foster high quality commercial and industrial development, and to enhance the economic vitality of the existing businesses and industries by promoting the reasonable, orderly and effective display of street graphics;
(3) To enhance the physical appearance of the city by preserving the scenic and natural beauty of the area;
(4) To protect the general public from damage and injury which may be caused by the faulty and uncontrolled construction and use of street graphics within the city;
(5) To protect pedestrians and motorists from damage or injury caused by the distractions, obstructions and hazards created by certain street graphics;
(6) To protect the public investment in streets and highways by reducing distractions which may increase traffic accidents;
(7) To preserve the value of private property by assuring the compatibility of street graphics with surrounding land uses;
(8) To encourage sound practices and lessen the objectionable effects of competition in respect to the size and placement of street graphics; and
(9) To protect the physical and mental well-being of the general public by recognizing and encouraging a sense of aesthetic appreciation for the visual environment.
(1960 Code, § 53-1-1) (Ord. 3427, passed 3-7-1977)