The style, color, size, materials and character of all permitted signs in a district, shall be compatible with the size and architectural style of the main building, and with other existing signs located on the same building and associated buildings to produce an overall unified effect. Signs shall be considered according to standards set forth in this section and shall require approval by the Building Commissioner with the concurrence of the Planning Commission as outlined in Section 1163.05.
(a) Continuity. Signs in a particular district and on a specific property shall have continuity in their design relative to the surrounding environment in the district.
(b) Style. The style of signs placed on a building or group of associated buildings shall be consistent and harmonious.
(c) Color. A sign shall contain no more than four (4) colors. Colors shall be compatible and harmonious with the building façade.
(d) Lettering. The lettering on a sign shall be large enough to be easily read, but not overly large or out of scale with the building upon which it is placed. Excessive amounts of graphics or information that, in the determination of the Planning Commission, create visual clutter or a distraction for motorists or pedestrians shall not be permitted.
(e) Materials. Signs, including supporting structures, shall be fabricated on and of noncombustible materials that are of good quality, good durability, and complementary to the main building. Cloth, paper or cardboard shall not be acceptable materials for permanent signage. All free-standing signs shall have base or foundation in conformance with Section 1163.02(c).
(f) Structural. All sign structures shall be designed and constructed to withstand a wind pressure from all directions of not less than ninety (90) miles per hour or thirty (30) pounds per square foot of net surface area and shall be constructed to withstand loads as required by the Building Code. The applicant shall provide to the Building Commissioner a design drawing prepared by and sealed by an Ohio Certified Design Professional detailing the foundation, construction and loading requirements of all free-standing signs and evidence of structural stability and mounting details for all building-mounted signs. Signs shall not be attached to parapets unless parapet is constructed to comply with above standards.
(g) Canopy Sign. A permitted canopy sign shall have a vertical dimension not to exceed twelve inches and the lowest structure shall not be less than eight (8) feet above sidewalk grade.
(Ord. 2020-124. Passed 11-4-20.)