For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
AWNING. A retractable or fixed shelter constructed of non-rigid materials on a supporting framework that project from the exterior wall of a building.
AWNING SIGN. A sign affixed flat against the surface of an awning.
BALLOON SIGN. A sign composed of a non-porous bag of material filled with air.
BANNER SIGN. A fabric, plastic, or other sign made of non-rigid material without an enclosing structural framework.
BILLBOARD. A sign which advertises an establishment, product, service, or activity not available on the lot on which the sign is located.
CONSTRUCTION SIGN. A sign which identifies the owners, financiers, contractors, architects, and engineers of a project under construction.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN. A sign which gives directions, instructions, or facility information for the use on the lot on which the sign is located, such as parking or exit and entrance signs.
ELECTRONIC GRAPHIC DISPLAY SIGN. A sign or portion thereof that displays electronic, non-pictorial, text information in which each alphanumeric character, graphic, or symbol is defined by a small number of matrix elements using different combinations of light emitting diodes (LED’s), fiber optics, lights bulbs, or other illumination devices within the display area where the message changes sequence is accomplished immediately or by means of fade, repixalization, or dissolve modes. ELECTRONIC GRAPHIC DISPLAY SIGNS include computer programmable, microprocessor controlled electronic or digital displays. ELECTRONIC GRAPHIC DISPLAY SIGNS include projected images or messages with these characteristic onto buildings or other objects.
FREESTANDING SIGN. A sign supported on poles not attached to a building or wall.
GOVERNMENT SIGN. A temporary or permanent sign erected by Silver Creek Township, Cass County, or the state or federal government.
GROUND SIGN. A sign resting directly on the ground or supported by short poles not attached to a building or wall.
MARQUEE. A permanent structure constructed of rigid materials that projects from the exterior wall of a building.
MARQUEE SIGN. A sign affixed flat against the surface of a marquee.
MURAL. A design or representation painted or drawn on a wall which does not advertise an establishment, product, service, or activity.
PLACARD. A sign not exceeding two square feet which provides notices of a public nature, such as “No Trespassing” or “No Hunting” signs.
POLITICAL SIGN. A temporary sign used in connection with an official Silver Creek Township, school district, county, state, or federal election or referendum.
PORTABLE SIGN. A sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently attached to the ground, a structure, or a building.
PROJECTING SIGN. A double-faced sign attached to a building or wall that extends more than 12 inches but not more than 36 inches from the face of the building or wall.
READER BOARD. A portion of a sign on which copy is changed manually.
REAL ESTATE SIGN. A sign advertising the real estate upon which the sign is located as being for sale, rent, or lease.
ROOF LINE. The top edge of a roof or parapet wall, whichever is higher, but excluding any cupolas, chimneys, or other minor projections.
ROOF SIGN. A sign erected above the roof line of a building.
SEASONAL SIGN. A sign erected for a limited period of time during the year when retailing activities for a particular farm product is available.
SIGN. A device, structure, fixture, or placard using graphics, symbols, and/or written copy designed specifically for the purpose of advertising or identifying an establishment, product, service, or activity.
SPECIAL EVENT SIGN. Temporary and portable signs containing public messages concerning special events sponsored by government agencies or nonprofit organizations.
WALL SIGN. A sign painted or attached directly to and parallel to the exterior wall of a building extending no greater than 12 inches from the exterior face of the wall to which it is attached.
WINDOW SIGN. A sign installed inside a window and intended to be viewed from the outside.
(Ord. passed 7-30-2015; amended 11- -2013)