The regulations in this chapter establish comprehensive minimum requirements for the control of signs in order to preserve, protect and promote the public health, safety, morals and general welfare. More specifically, this chapter is intended to assist in achieving the following objectives, to:
(A) Authorize the use of signs which are:
(1) Compatible with their surroundings and the zoning district;
(2) Appropriate to the type of activity;
(3) Expressive of the identity of the proprietors; and
(4) Legible in the circumstances.
(B) Foster high quality commercial development and to enhance the economic vitality of existing businesses by promoting the reasonable, orderly and effective display of signs and to encourage better communication with the public;
(C) Encourage sound, proper display practices and to mitigate the objectionable effects of competition in respect to the size and placement of signs;
(D) Protect pedestrians and motorists from damage or injury that might result from the improper construction, placement or use of signs;
(E) Protect the public by reducing the obstructions and distractions which might cause traffic accidents;
(F) Preserve the value of private property by assuring the compatibility of signs with nearby land uses;
(G) Protect the physical and mental well being of the general public by recognizing and encouraging a sense of aesthetic appreciation for the visual environment;
(H) Preserve and enhance the natural beauty and unique character of the city;
(I) Promote and aid the Iowa Great Lakes area tourist industry which is declared to be of importance to the economy of the city;
(J) Promote convenience, enjoyment and free flow of traffic within the city; and
(K) Protect the public’s ability to identify uses and premises without confusion.
(Prior Code, § 8-7-1) (Ord. 470, passed 3-18-1996)