Except as otherwise specifically provided in the city code, and by variance procedure, the following provisions apply in all zones for signs.
(A) No sign shall be permitted which may obstruct visibility for the purpose of public safety in any direction at all intersections of streets, alleys, sidewalks, and/or driveways.
(B) No sign shall be allowed which advertises activities that are illegal under federal, state, city or county laws.
(C) No signs shall be painted upon retaining walls, rocks, natural features or vegetation.
(D) Off-site directional signs identifying the way to a private event or establishment.
(E) Signs which advertise goods, product, services or facilities or direct persons to a different location from where the sign is installed. Off-premise signs require a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals. This does not apply to billboards as defined herein.
(F) Signs not permanently attached to the ground, building, or structures are prohibited, except for temporary signs.
(G) Pole signs are not allowed in any district. This does not apply to legally placed billboards.
(H) Signs generally are prohibited in the public right-of-way or any easement of record.
(I) Attention attracting devices are prohibited. Flashing, rotating, or blinking signs are not permitted.
(J) Banners and temporary signs are not permitted as primary signs.
(K) No sign shall be mounted on the roof of any structure. If a roof is considered a part of the structure, such as a mansard style roof, signs will be reviewed on an individual basis by the Planning Commission Staff for determination of compliance with the intent of this chapter.
(L) No wall sign shall exceed the height of the wall or facade on which they are mounted.
(M) No sign may block or be placed in front of any door, window, fire escape, or opening required for ventilation in any structure.
(N) All signs, including temporary signs, shall not be permitted on any public utility pole, fence post, fence, light pole, tree, or any other public owned structures such as a street or stop sign.
(O) With the exception of misleading information and profanity, the city does not intend by any provision of this chapter to regulate the content of any sign.
(P) Signs which advertise an activity, business, project, or service no longer conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located; otherwise known as an abandoned sign. When a business or tenant vacates a particular site, then the sign shall be removed if the sign is not utilized within 180 days. That includes the structure support of the sign such as the pole and framework which the sign is placed.
(Q) Motor vehicles, trailers and similar vehicles whose sole purpose is for advertising shall not be permitted in any district.
(R) If any provisions of this chapter conflict with any other adopted city code regulating signs, the more restrictive shall govern.
(S) No sign or other advertising device shall use flashing, animation or video effects except as may be allowed as a frame effect under § 98.16(D)(3).
(Ord. 07-2604, passed 1-7-08; Am. Ord. 11-2670, passed 5-23-11) Penalty, see § 98.99