(a) Allowable Stress. All materials used in structural elements of outdoor signs or display structures, and the allowable stresses for such materials, shall be in conformity with the applicable provisions of this chapter. The allowable stresses in chains, cables and guy rods and their fastenings shall not exceed one-fourth their ultimate strength.
(b) Noncombustible Signs. When noncombustible outdoor signs or display structures are required by this chapter, all parts including the supporting structure shall be of noncombustible material; provided, however, that wood, approved plastic or other material not more combustible than wood or approved plastic shall be permitted in the following locations:
(1) For small ornamental moldings, caps, nailing strips, individual letters, symbols, figures and insignia;
(2) On the face of a sign, provided that the aggregate area of such facing for any sign shall not exceed 100 square feet or for a group of signs shall not exceed 200 square feet; and
(3) For posts, braces and latticing on ground signs whose total height is not more than twenty feet above grade level and when specifically approved by the Building Official.
(c) Combustible Signs. No material more flammable or combustible than wood or approved plastic shall be used in any permitted combustible sign. No combustible sign shall be illuminated by other than the reflector method of electric lighting and all parts of reflectors shall be of noncombustible material.
(d) Tests for Approved Combustible Plastics. Approved combustible plastic is any plastic material more than 0.050 inch thick which when tested for flammability in sheets 0. 060 inch thick in accordance with ASTM D 635 does not burn at a rate exceeding two and one -half inches per minute.
(e) Use of Approved Combustible Plastics. Approved combustible plastics shall not be used in positions where they shall be subject to temperatures in excess of 140° F unless they have been approved for higher temperatures by the Board of Building Standards.
(f) Glass in Projecting Signs. Glass in projecting signs shall be used only to such extent and in such manner that no hazard shall be created thereby, and then only if specifically approved by the Building Official.
(g) Attachment of Projecting Signs.
(1) Materials. All anchorage, chains, cables or rods supporting or bracing projecting signs shall be of a noncorrosive material or protected in a manner acceptable to the Building Official. The dead load and the loads due to wind pressure shall be supported by structural shapes, chains, cables, or guy rods. Lateral supports shall be spaced not more than eight feet apart. Turnbuckles or other approved means of adjustment shall be placed in all chains, cables or rods supporting or bracing projecting signs.
(2) Method. Complete information regarding the proposed method of support and attachment of projecting signs shall be submitted with the application for the permit. No staples or nails shall be used to secure any projecting sign to any building or other stricture. No part of a projecting sign shall be supported from an unbraced parapet wall.
(Ord. 2-16. Passed 4-18-2016.)