(a) Criteria. The purpose of this chapter is to provide for and coordinate the use, type, location and size of signs within the various zoning districts of the Municipality as a means to contribute towards the protection of the property values, the creation of a more attractive economic and business climate and the enhancement and protection of the physical appearance of the community. With this purpose in mind it is the further intention of this chapter to authorize the use of signs which are:
(1) Compatible with their surroundings.
(2) An enhancement towards community development.
(3) Aesthetically acceptable to the community.
(4) Permanently and safely attached to a structure on the ground.
(5) Equitable in standards for all businesses based on the value of fair competition.
(6) Effective in providing the motoring public with safe, effective means of reaching and identifying businesses, services, and other points of interest within the Village.
(7) Legible in the circumstances to which they are seen.
(8) Expressive of the identity of the individual proprietors and of the community as a whole.
(9) Designed to mitigate hazards that may be caused by signs hanging or projecting over public right of ways.
(10) Regulated on an equitable basis to all individuals, persons, firms or corporations effected by this chapter through accurate record keeping and consistent enforcement.
(b) Establishing Regulations. Signs shall be designed, erected, altered, reconstructed, moved and maintained, in whole or part, in accordance with the type, design, size, location, illumination and other provisions as set forth in this chapter. The provisions of this chapter shall supercede and have precedence over any other ordinances currently in place regulating signs within the Village. The provisions of this chapter shall also in no manner amend or in any way interfere with other codes, rules, or regulations governing traffic signs within the Village.
(c) Governmental Signs Excluded. For the purpose of this chapter, "sign" does not include signs erected and maintained pursuant to and in discharge of any governmental function, or required by any law, ordinance, or governmental regulation.
(Ord. 33-89. Passed 11-28-89.)