The design guidelines and standards exist to provide direction for signs within the Town of Vail that enhance local streetscapes and provide aesthetic consistency with both the built and natural environment. The guidelines and standards are intended to encourage expression and creativity. The design guidelines make use of the word “should”, to allow for subjectivity and creativity, whereas the design standards make use of the word “shall”, signifying strict interpretation and enforcement. The sign measurement section exists to ensure that measurement of sign area is properly calculated in order to facilitate signage that upholds the purpose of this title.
(Ord. 11(2021) § 1)
Any sign erected within the Town of Vail should:
(A) Be consistent with the scale and architecture already present in the town. Sign location, configuration, mounting structure, framing design, and size should be aesthetically harmonious with the mountain setting and the alpine village atmosphere of the town;
(B) Be compatible with the placement of surrounding signs. Similar signs should not be placed within close proximity of each other, but should instead incorporate variety and visual interest within the “view corridor” that they are placed. Signs shall not create visual clutter. The staff shall review all proposed signs in the context of adjacent signage to verify that the sign is appropriately placed;
(C) Be composed of predominately natural materials.
(1) Be composed of predominately natural materials which may include, but are not limited to, painted, stained, solid, or carved wood; brick; stone; wrought iron or metals such as copper or brass that have been treated to prevent reflective glare; nonreflective glass and stained glass; other naturally textured building materials.
(2) Plastic and other synthetic materials that are not naturally textured, such as sign foam, vinyl or Plexiglas®, are discouraged.
(D) Use natural colors.
(1) Earth tones. Full spectrum of soil, clay, and metallic colors;
(2) Neutrals. Off whites to deep brown and black; and
(3) Bright colors. Bright colors should be used only as accents.
(E) Use creative graphics and lettering. The creative use of depth, relief, shading, three- dimensional projections and other pleasing textural qualities is generally encouraged. Three-dimensional projections shall not be calculated as part of total sign area, but shall be subject to design review;
(F) Be surrounded by landscaping. Landscaping, when appropriate, should be designed in harmony with surrounding natural landforms and native plants (xeriscaping); and
(G) Use inconspicuous lighting. Lighting should be integrated into the overall design of the sign, both in color and placement, and should be of no greater illumination than is necessary to make the sign visible at night. Recessed and indirect light sources are encouraged.
(Ord. 11(2021) § 1)
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