(A) The sign regulations, controls and provisions set forth in this subchapter are made in accordance with an overall plan and program for the public safety, area development, preservation of property values and the general welfare of the village, and are intended to aid in traffic control and traffic safety; preserve and protect property values; lessen or land and air space congestion; provide against undue concentrations of signs which distract and endanger traffic safety and traffic flow; establish reasonable standards for commercial and other advertising through the use of signs in order to maintain and encourage business activity and area development; avoid uncontrolled proliferation of signs; recognize the rights of the public in roads, streets and highways; preserve the wholesome and attractive character of the village; and recognize that the general welfare includes a community plan that provides for a community that shall be beautiful as well as healthful, spacious as well as clean, and well balanced in its growth and development.
(B) The sign regulations distinguish between on-premises and off-premises business signs. This distinction is based on the finding that other media (e.g., television, radio, newspapers, outdoor advertising sign structures and the like) adequately present avenues for business advertising. The restriction of off-premises business signs will significantly aid in the realization of the goals and purposes recited above.
(C) The sign regulations expressly exclude from regulations non-business signs except insofar as necessary to prevent imminent danger to the health or safety of the public.
(D) (1) These sign regulations expressly distinguish between outdoor advertising sign structures and signs based on the specific finding that such structures are capable of being utilized for and have been and continue to be utilized for announcements of both a commercial and non-commercial nature, have been a traditional and lawful use of land in the village, are a unique communication medium involving nationally standardized signs, which is made generally available to the public.
(2) At the same time, the regulations recognize that a limitation upon the size and number of such structures is consistent with and will further the goals expressed in this chapter.
(Prior Code, § 9-7-1) (Ord. 2002-4, passed 3-18-2002)