(a) The purpose of this chapter shall be to coordinate the type, placement and physical dimensions of signs within the different zoning districts; to recognize the commercial communication requirements of all sectors of the business community; to encourage the innovative use of design; to promote both renovation and 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.
This chapter also encourages the proper development and use of graphic signage systems and to regulate signs and signing systems so as not to endanger the public safety of individuals; confuse, mislead or obstruct the vision necessary for traffic safety; negatively impact property values; or otherwise endanger public health, safety, welfare and morals.
(b) This chapter shall not relate to building design; Nor shall this chapter regulate window displays; official traffic or government signs; the copy and message of signs; signs not intended to be viewed from a public right-of-way; product dispensers and point of purchase displays not intended to be viewed from a public right-of-way; scoreboards on athletic fields; flags of any nation, government or noncommercial organization; gravestones; the display of street numbers; or any display or construction not defined herein as a sign.
Thus, the primary intent of this chapter shall be to regulate signs of a commercial nature intended to be viewed from any public right-of-way.
(Ord. 03-21. Passed 12-8-03.)