(A) All signs must be erected and/or constructed so that no part of the sign or structure extends into or over a public right-of-way.
(B) Two or more contiguous, but separate and distinct zoning lots or parcels shall not be considered one lot or parcel for the purpose of determining sign area or setback requirements.
(C) (1) The sign area of a sign consisting of letters, figures, numbers, or symbols only, without a background, shall be the area of the smallest rectangle which would enclose all letters, figures, numbers or symbols which constitute the sign.
(2) The area of all other signs shall be the entire surface area or signboard upon which letters, numbers, figures, symbols or copy of any sort could be placed. When a sign has more than one face, only one side shall be considered the sign area. Structure, bracing or support shall not be considered part of the sign area unless the structure is part of the sign face.
(D) Freestanding signs shall be separated by a distance equal to the minimum lot width permitted in the zoning districts in which the freestanding signs are located. Freestanding sign support structures shall be located at least one foot from any public right-of-way or easement.
(E) (1) A political sign shall not be erected more than five weeks prior to the election for which the sign pertains and shall be removed within ten days following that election. Political signs must be erected at least ten feet from the edge of the pavement.
(2) The Board of Aldermen shall designate a location for the posting of political signs near each polling site. This area will be in compliance with the regulations of the State Board of Elections. Political signs will be allowed in this area for the period of 24 hours before the election, the day of the election, and for 24 hours after the day of election. This area shall be exempt from the setback requirement. The Board of Aldermen shall make this designation at the regularly scheduled Board meeting in the month prior to the election or primary.
(F) Construction signs shall not include any promotional material.
(G) Institutional signs and home occupation signs shall be located only on the zoning lot occupied by the institution or home.
(H) Gasoline service stations are permitted gasoline pump signs, a gasoline price sign, and one attached sign indicating the type of services offered in addition to other permitted signs.
(I) Official governmental flags, as defined in G.S. § 144-7.1 are not subject to these regulations, if properly flown in a manner that does not impair vision on the streets or otherwise threaten the public safety.
(`94 Code, App. C, Art. VIII, § 6) (Am. Ord. 99-01, passed 2-9-99; Am. Ord. 06-16, passed 2-13-07)