(A) Signs constitute a separate and distinct use of the land upon which they are placed and affect the use of adjacent streets, sidewalks, and other public places and adjacent private places open to the public. The unregulated construction, placement and display of signs constitute a public nuisance detrimental to the health, safety, convenience, and welfare of the residents of the city.
(B) The purpose of this article is to establish reasonable and impartial regulations for all exterior signs and those interior signs designed to attract the attention of persons located outdoors. The result of this article will reduce the traffic hazards caused by such unregulated signs which may distract and confuse, and impair the visibility of motorists and pedestrians; ensure the effectiveness of public traffic signs and signals; protect property values by ensuring the compatibility of property with that surrounding it; provide an attractive visual environment throughout the city; protect the character and appearance of various neighborhoods in the city; attract tourists to the city; protect the public investments in streets, highways, and other public improvements; and protect and improve the public health, safety and general welfare.
(C) The regulations contained in the article advance these significant government interests and are the minimum amounts of regulation necessary to achieve them.
(Ord. 3215, passed 10-18-10)