Signs perform an important function in identifying and promoting properties, businesses, services, residences, events, and other matters of interest to the public. The intent of this Article is to regulate all signs within the City of Canton to ensure that they are appropriate for their respective uses, in keeping with the appearance of the affected property and surrounding environment, and protective of the public health, safety, and general welfare by:
(a) Setting standards and providing uniform, metric-based controls that permit reasonable use of signs and preserve the character of the City of Canton.
(b) Prohibiting the erection of signs in such numbers, sizes, designs, illumination, and locations as may create a hazard to pedestrians and motorists.
(c) Avoiding excessive conflicts from large or multiple signs, so that permitted signs provide adequate identification and direction while minimizing clutter, unsightliness, and confusion.
(d) Establishing a process for the review and approval of sign permit applications.
(e) Ensuring sign design that builds on the visual environment the City of Canton seeks to promote within its neighborhoods.
(f) The City of Canton encourages all involved in the sign industry, both contractors and users, to take whatever steps possible to support and utilize energy efficient material and actions. (Ord. 25-2019. Passed 2-25-19.)