A. Applicability: The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the display, construction, erection, alteration, use, maintenance and location of all signs. All signs that are displayed, constructed, erected or altered after the date of adoption of this title shall conform to the provisions of these regulations. These regulations shall be liberally construed in order to further their purpose, intent and effect, as set forth in sections 11-5-1 and 11-5-2 of this chapter and this section. The Zoning Administrator or designee is hereby authorized and directed to enforce these regulations.
B. Effect: The effect of these regulations is as follows:
1. Recognize that signs are a necessary means of useful communication for the convenience of the public.
2. Maximize the value of signage as a means of locating and identifying businesses and properties while discouraging the use of signs to sell goods and services.
3. Protect, preserve and enhance the unique aesthetic character, beauty and charm of the City and the surrounding area and to encourage the continued development of tourism within the zoning jurisdiction.
4. Promote signs that are of appropriate scale and integrated with surrounding buildings and landscape to further the community's desire for quality development and compatibility within each sign district.
5. Promote clear views of the natural surroundings by minimizing visual clutter and reducing the competition for airspace.
6. Protect the public from hazardous conditions that can result from signs that are structurally unsafe, obscure the vision of motorists, create dangers to pedestrian traffic or which compete or conflict with necessary traffic signals and warning signs.
7. To prohibit additional and eliminate existing off premises signs and billboards, which are considered blight to the community and should be removed as early as possible.
8. Eliminate distracting lighting, excessive glare and light pollution by reasonably limiting the illumination of signs and buildings to subdued, adequately shielded or concealed light sources.
9. Encourage the construction of signs of natural materials, which are compatible with the historic, cultural and natural surroundings.
10. Impose reasonable time, place and manner restrictions while not unnecessarily interfering with the free exercise of rights granted under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.
C. Substitution Clause: Any sign allowed under this chapter may contain, in lieu of any other message or copy, any lawful noncommercial message that does not direct attention to a business operated for profit, or to a product, commodity or service for sale or lease, or to any other commercial interest or activity, so long as the sign complies with the size, height, area and other requirements of this chapter. (Ord. 19-03, 2-4-2019)