This chapter establishes five (5) distinct geographic districts within the zoning jurisdiction area which possess different and unique characteristics of physical location, existing building design and uses, pedestrian versus vehicle circulation and tourist versus local resident use. The intent of identifying these unique districts is to encourage design that will meet the needs and harmonize with the unique character of each district.
The Whitefish sign districts map establishes the five (5) geographic sign districts: the Highway District, the Old Town District, the Community Business and Resort District, the Residential District, and the Business Service District. The map is adopted as part of these regulations and is included in section 11-8-1, appendix F of this title. A table that lists the various sign districts and summarizes the sign standards in each district is included in section 11-8-1, appendix G of this title. It is not the intent in establishing these sign districts to allow uses within a particular zoning district that would not otherwise be allowed.
To the extent this chapter is amended in the future, such amendments shall immediately and automatically apply throughout the City.
By the adoption date hereof, the City retains the Whitefish sign districts map which designates the five (5) geographic sign districts, shown in section 11-8-1, appendix F of this title. Those areas of the City's jurisdictional area not covered by the special sign districts in section 11-8-1, appendix F of this title shall be considered to be within the Residential Districts, and subject to the provisions of section 11-5-6-4 of this chapter.
Nothing set forth herein makes legal or otherwise legitimizes any existing signs in violation of any State of Montana or Flathead County sign laws, ordinances, or regulations, and such signs shall continue to be illegal signs, subject to abatement. (Ord. 19-03, 2-4-2019)