A. Signs shall be allowed in all zoning districts without a permit, provided:
1. If illuminated, the sign must be lit so that the light source is directed away from adjoining residences and the sign does not measurably increase light on nearby properties or public right- of-way.
2. Unless otherwise indicated or required by government bodies, no more than one exempt sign is allowed per street frontage of a property.
Exception: All noncommercial signs of any size and of any number may be posted in any manner on private property during regular and special Citywide elections and State primary and State general elections, from forty six (46) days before the election until ten (10) days following the election. For purposes of this section, the terms "regular and special Citywide elections" are defined as those elections provided for in chapter 4 of the Moorhead City Charter.
3. The sign does not exceed sixteen (16) square feet.
Exception: All noncommercial signs of any size and of any number may be posted in any manner on private property during regular and special Citywide elections and State primary and State general elections, from forty six (46) days before the election until ten (10) days following the election. For purposes of this section, the terms "regular and special Citywide elections" are defined as those elections provided for in chapter 4 of the Moorhead City Charter.
Exception: A residential subdivision may have a noncommercial, informational identification sign at each entrance that does not exceed thirty two (32) square feet in display surface area. (Ord. 2012-2, 2-27-2012)
4. The changing of the display surface only of an existing sign, provided there are no changes to the size, frame or support.
5. Any sign not legible to a person of ordinary eyesight (with vision adequate to pass a State driver's license exam) standing at ground level at a location on the public right-of-way or on other private property.
6. Public signs, including signs on mass transit vehicles.
B. Exemption from the permit process shall not be construed as relieving the owner of the sign from responsibility of its erection and maintenance, and its compliance with the provisions of this chapter or any other law or ordinance regulating the same. (Ord. 2007-25, 10-1-2007)