(a) Purpose. The purpose of this chapter shall be to coordinate the type, placement, and physical dimensions of signs within the different land-use zones; to recognize the commercial communication requirements of all sectors of the business community; to encourage the inovative use of design; to promote both renovation and proper maintenance; to allow for special circumstances; and to guarantee equal treatment under the law through accurate record keeping and consistent enforcement. These shall be accomplished by regulation of the display, erection, use, and maintenance of signs. The use of signs is regulated according to zone. The placement and physical dimensions of signs are regulated primarily by type and length of street frontage. No sign shall be permitted as a main or accessory use except in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(b) Scope. This chapter shall not relate to building design. Nor shall the chapter regulate official traffic or government signs; the copy and message of signs; signs not intended to be viewed from a public right-of-way; window displays; product dispensers and point of purchase displays; scoreboards on athletic fields; flags of any nation, government, or noncommercial organization; gravestones; barber poles; religious symbols; commemorative plaques; the display of street numbers; or any display or construction not defined herein as a sign.
(Ord. 47-1989. Passed 4-17-89.)
(c) Philosophy of Sign Guidelines.
(1) To insure that the City of Massillon is provided with a means of developing qualitative and effective outdoor signs for the purposes of information and identity.
(2) To provide that every business and organization has not only the right, but an obligation to identify itself well.
(3) To provide the businesses in the City with equitable sign standards, based on the values of fair competition and aesthetic standards acceptable to the community.
(4) To provide the motoring public with a safe and effective means of easily reaching and identifying businesses, services, areas and points of interest in the City.
(Ord. 47-1989. Passed 4-17-89.)