(A) The intent of this subchapter is to create the legal framework for a comprehensive and balanced system of signage control and thereby to provide an attractive and effective balance between signage and the environment.
(B) This subchapter shall be enforced and administered with the support of the signage regulations stated in Ord. 712 of the Village Building Code.
(C) In any instance of conflict between these two regulatory documents, the more restrictive shall apply.
(D) With this concept in mind, this subchapter is adopted for the following purposes:
(1) To authorize the uses of signs which are:
(a) Compatible with their surroundings;
(b) Appropriate to, and descriptive of the type of activity to which they pertain;
(c) Balanced in the expression of the identity of individuals and of the community as a whole; and
(d) Legible in the circumstances in which they are seen.
(2) To preserve, protect and promote the public health, safety and welfare;
(3) To provide a positive economic climate for the business and industry of the village by promoting the reasonable, orderly and effective display of signage and encouraging better communication with the public;
(4) To enhance the physical appearance of the village by preserving the scenic and natural beauty of the area;
(5) To protect the general public from damage and injury which may be caused by the faulty and uncontrolled construction and use of signs within the village;
(6) To protect pedestrians and motorists from damage or injury caused by the distractions, obstructions and hazards created by certain signs;
(7) To protect the public investment in streets and highways by reducing distractions that may increase traffic accidents;
(8) To protect the physical and mental well-being of the general public by recognizing and encouraging a sense of appreciation for the visual environment;
(9) To preserve the value of private property by assuring the compatibility of signs with surrounding land uses; and
(10) To encourage sound practices and lessen the objectionable effects of competition in respect to and placement of signs.
(Ord. 788, passed 8-17-2005)