HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Ordinance 2007-04CITY OF PLYMOUTH
HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 2007-04
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF CHAPTER 21 OF THE PLYMOUTH
CITY CODE, ENTITLED THE PLYMOUTH ZONING ORDINANCE. (2006093)
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PLYMOUTH ORDAINS:
SECTION 1. Amendments. The text of Chapter 21 of the Plymouth City Code is
hereby amended as follows:
A. SECTION 21005.02 (RULES AND DEFINITIONS—DEFINITIONS) IS
HEREBY AMENDED BY ADDING, DELETING, OR CHANGING THE
FOLLOWING DEFINITIONS AS FOLLOWS:
Sign Related:
(a) Area Identification Sign: A freestanding sign identifying the name of a
single family residential subdivision consisting of five (5) or more lots; a multiple
family residential complex consisting of ten (10) or more units; a commercial or
industrial development containing two (2) or more structures; a manufactured
home park; or any integrated combination of the above. (Amended by Ord. No.
2004-02, 01/13/04)
(b) Billboard: See Outdoor Advertising Sign.
(c) Changeable Copy Sign: A sign or portion of a sign that has a readerboard
for the display of text information in which each alpha -numeric character or
symbol is neither electronic nor illuminated and may be changed or rearranged
manually or mechanically with characters, letters or numbers that can be changed
or rearranged without altering the face or surface of the sign structure.
(d) Construction Sign: A temporary sign which displays information
announcing the approved construction or development of the site on which it is
displayed.
(e) Commercial Speech: Speech advertising a business, profession,
commodity, service, or entertainment.
(f) Directional Sign: A sign erected to indicate the direction of traffic or to
direct traffic to specific locations.
(g) Electronic Changeable Copy Sign: A sign or portion of a sign that
displays electronic, non -pictorial text information in which each alpha -numeric
character or symbol is defined by a small number of matrix elements using
different combinations of light emitting diodes (LED's), fiber optics, or other
illumination devised within the display area. The characters for the copy or script
shall be only that available on a standard word processing keyboard, and shall not
include graphics, pictures, or other items. Electronic changeable copy signs
include computer programmable, microprocessor -controlled electronic displays
and messages that are projected onto buildings or other objects.
(h) Electronic Graphic Display Sign: A sign or portion of a sign that displays
electronic, static images, static graphics or static pictures, with or without text
information, defined by a small number of matrix elements using different
combinations of light emitting diodes (LED's), fiber optics, or other illumination
devised within the display area where the message change sequence is
accomplished immediately or by means of fade, re-pixalization, or dissolve
modes. Electronic graphic display signs include computer programmable,
microprocessor -controlled electronic or digital displays. Electronic graphic
display signs include images or messages with these characteristics that are
projected onto buildings or other objects.
(i) Flag: Any fabric or similar lightweight material attached to a staff, pole,
or similar device at one end of the material so as to allow movement of the
material by atmospheric changes and which contains distinctive colors, patterns,
symbols, emblems, insignia or other symbolic devices.
0) Flashing Sign: A directly or indirectly illuminated sign or portion of a
sign that exhibits changing light or color effect by any means, so as to provide
intermittent illumination that changes light intensity in sudden transitory bursts
and creates the illusion of intermittent flashing light by streaming, graphic bursts
showing movement, or any mode of lighting which resembles zooming, twinkling
or sparkling.
(k) Freestanding Sign: A self -supported sign not affixed to another structure.
(1) Illuminated Sign: A sign illuminated by an artificial light source either
directed upon it or illuminated from an interior source.
(m) Monument Sign: Any sign not supported by posts, which does not exceed
ten (10) feet in height, and located directly at grade where the base width
dimension is 75 percent or more of the greatest width of the sign.
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(n) Multi -Vision Sign: Any sign or portion of a sign composed in whole or
in part of a series of vertical or horizontal slats or cylinders that are capable of
being rotated at intervals so that partial rotation of the group of slats or cylinders
produces a different image and allows on a single sign structure the display of two
or more images at a given time.
(o) Name Plate Sign: A sign located on the premises, giving the name or
address or both of the owner or occupant of a building or premises.
(p) Non -Commercial Speech: Dissemination of messages not classified as
commercial speech which include, but are not limited to, messages concerning
political, religious, social, ideological, public service and information topics.
(q) Non -Conforming Sign: Any sign which existed prior to the adoption of
this Chapter and does not conform to the requirements herein.
(r) Official Sign: Any sign of a public nature when erected by or on behalf
of public officials or employees in the performance of their official duty,
including: public notification signs, safety signs, traffic signs, or directional signs
to public facilities.
(s) Outdoor Advertising Sign: A sign which is located outdoors and which
advertises a product, business, service, event, or any other matter which is not
available or does not take place on the same premises as the sign.
(t) Private Drive Sign: A sign that is located near the entrance(s) to a private
drive that serves more than one dwelling unit, and that states "Private Drive" and
provides the range of addresses served by the private drive. (Amended by Ord. No
2002-32, 11/26/02)
(u) Roof Sign: A sign erected, constructed or attached wholly or in part upon
or over the roof of a building.
(v) Rotating Sign: A sign or portion of a sign which turns on an axis.
(w) Sign: Any letter, word, or symbol, poster, picture, statuary, reading
matter or representation in the nature of advertisement, announcement, message,
or visual communication, whether painted, posted, printed, affixed, or
constructed, including all associated brackets, braces, supports, wires and
structures, which is visible from outside whether located inside or outside of a
building and displayed for informational or communicative purposes.
(x) Shimmering Sign: A sign or portion of a sign which reflects an
oscillating sometimes distorted visual image.
(y) Surface Area: The entire area within a single, continuous perimeter
enclosing the extreme limits of the actual sign surface, including any material
forming an integral part of the background of the display used to differentiate the
sign from the background structure. It does not include any structural elements
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outside the limits of the sign, such as the base, framing, or decorative roofing,
provided there is no advertising copy on such features. For signs consisting of
individual letters, figures, or symbols applied directly onto a building or structure,
the sign area shall be that area enclosed with the smallest rectangle needed to
completely encompass all letters, figures, or symbols. Only one side of a double
face or V -type sign structure shall be used in computing total surface area,
provided the maximum angle between faces of double-faced or V -type signs is 45
degrees.
(z) Temporary Sign: A sign erected or displayed for a specified period of
time.
(aa) Time and Temperature Sign: Any sign or portion of a sign which
displays exclusively current time and temperature information.
(bb) Traffic Sign: A sign which is erected by a governmental unit for the
purpose of directing or guiding traffic.
(cc) Video Display Sign: A sign or portion of a sign that changes its message
or background in a manner or method of display characterized by motion or
pictorial imagery, which may or may not include text and depicts action or a
special effect to imitate movement, the presentation of pictorials or graphics
displayed in a progression of frames which give the illusion of motion, including,
but not limited to the illusion of moving objects, moving patterns or bands of
light, or expanding or contracting shapes, not including electronic changeable
copy signs. Video display signs include images or messages with these
characteristics projected onto buildings or other objects.
B. SECTION 21155 (SIGN REGULATIONS) IS HEREBY AMENDED AS
FOLLOWS:
SECTION 21155 - SIGN REGULATIONS
21155.01. FINDINGS: The City finds:
Subd. 1. Exterior signs have a substantial impact on the character and
quality of the environment.
Subd. 2. Signs provide an important medium through which individuals
may convey a variety of messages.
Subd. 3. Signs can create traffic hazards, aesthetic concerns and detriments
to property values, thereby threatening the public health, safety and welfare.
Subd. 4. The City's zoning regulations have, since as early as 1971,
included the regulation of signs in an effort to provide adequate means of expression and
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to promote the economic viability of the business community, while protecting the City
and its citizens from a proliferation of signs of a type, size, location and character that
would adversely impact upon the aesthetics of the community and threaten the health,
safety and welfare of the community. The regulation of the physical characteristics of
signs within the City has had a positive impact on traffic safety and the appearance of the
community.
21155.02 PURPOSE AND INTENT: The purpose and intent of this Section is to:
Subd. 1. Regulate the number, location, size, type, illumination and other
physical characteristics of signs in order to promote the public health, safety and welfare.
Subd. 2. Maintain, enhance and improve the aesthetic environment by
preventing visual clutter that is detrimental to the appearance and vitality of the
community.
Subd. 3. Improve the visual appearance of the City while providing for
effective means of communication, consistent with constitutional guarantees and the
City's goals of public safety and aesthetics.
Subd. 4. Provide for fair and consistent enforcement of the sign regulations
set forth herein under the zoning authority of the City.
Subd. 5. It is not the purpose or intent of this Section to regulate any
building design or any display not defined as a sign, or any sign which cannot be viewed
from outside a building.
21155.03 EFFECT: A sign may be erected, mounted, displayed, or maintained if it
conforms to the provisions of this Section. No person shall place, erect, modify, or
maintain a sign, nor shall a lessee or owner permit property under their control to be used
for such sign, that does not conform to the requirements of this Section, and all other
regulations. The effect of this Section, as more specifically set forth herein, is to:
Subd. 1. Allow a wide variety of sign types in commercial zones, and a
more limited variety of signs in other zones, subject to the standards set forth in this
Section.
Subd. 2. Allow certain small, unobtrusive signs incidental to the principal
use of a site in all zones when in compliance with the requirements of this Section.
Subd. 3. Prohibit signs whose location, size, type, illumination or other
physical characteristics negatively affect the environment and where the communication
can be accomplished by means having a lesser impact on the environment and the public
health, safety and welfare.
Subd. 4. Provide for the administration and enforcement of the provisions
of this Section.
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21155.04. SEVERABILITY: If any subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this
Section is for any reason held to be invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or
enforceability of the remaining portions of this Section. The City Council hereby
declares that it would have adopted the regulations in each subsection, sentence, or
phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more subsections, sentences,
clauses or phrases be declared invalid.
21155.05. GENERAL REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS: The following
standards shall apply to all signs in all districts as permitted by this subdivision unless
specifically set forth otherwise by this Section. Determination as to the applicability of
the standards to any given sign shall rest with the Zoning Administrator subject to the
administrative appeal procedures set forth in this Section.
Subd. 1. All signs hereafter erected or maintained, except for official or
traffic signs, shall conform to the provisions of this Section; with other applicable
ordinances and regulations of the City; and, relative to all federal and state highways,
with the Minnesota Outdoor Advertising Control Act, Minnesota Statutes, Section
173.01, as amended.
Subd.2. Unless specifically prohibited, all signs may be illuminated
internally or by reflected light subject to the following:
(a). The light source shall not be directly visible and shall be arranged to
reflect away from adjoining premises.
(b) The illumination source shall not be placed so to cause confusion or
hazard to traffic, or to conflict with official or traffic signs, signals, or lights.
(c) Maximum illumination levels:
(1) Signs using an LED (Light Emitting Diode) light source shall not
exceed a luminance level of six hundred (600) candela per square meter
(nits) between sunset and sunrise, and shall not exceed a luminance level
of five thousand (5,000) candela per square meter between sunrise and
sunset.
(2) Signs using florescent, neon, or incandescent light sources shall
not exceed twelve (12) watts per square foot of sign surface area.
(d) No illumination involving movement, by reason of the lighting
arrangement, lighting source, changes in either color or intensity of lighting, or
other devices shall be permitted. This includes video display signs, or any signs
that have blinking, flashing, scrolling, shimmering, and rotating, except that time
and temperature signs may be allowed. (Amended by Ord. No. 2006-04,
02/07/06)
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(e) An electronic changeable copy sign or a changeable copy sign, in addition
to other permitted signage, may be permitted provided the following conditions
are met:
(1) The message shall not be visible from any public street.
(2) The portion of the sign allocated to changeable copy shall be no
greater than six (6) square feet.
(3) The sign shall comply with all other signage regulations.
(4) Characters and letters shall be no more than four (4) inches in
height.
Subd. 3. The message or display on electronic changeable copy signs or
electronic graphic display signs shall not change more than four times during any hour,
except for those signs permitted by Section 21155.05. Subd. 2 (e) and time and
temperature signs.
Subd. 4. Signs painted directly on building exteriors are not permitted.
Subd. 5. No freestanding signs shall project higher than thirty-six (36) feet
above grade.
Subd. 6. Except as otherwise limited by this Section, no freestanding sign
shall exceed 160 square feet in surface area.
Subd. 7. No wall sign or other sign attached to a building shall project
above the roof line or parapet of the building to which it is attached or shall constitute a
roof sign as defined by this Section. (Amended by Ord. No. 99-5, 01/19/99)
Subd. 8. No sign shall be erected or placed that resembles any official
marker directed by a government agency, nor shall signs display such words as "stop" or
"danger" except that in shopping centers these or other traffic signs may be used where
deemed appropriate by the City Engineer.
Subd. 9. No sign shall obstruct any window, door, fire escape, stairway, or
other authorized or required building opening.
Subd. 10. No sign shall be erected or placed that, by reason of position,
shape, size, or color, would interfere with proper functioning of a traffic sign or with
reasonable visibility at a street intersection.
Subd. 11. Signs shall not be permitted within the public right-of-way, or
within dedicated public easements except the following:
(a) Temporary public announcement signs for city-wide and free community
events.
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(b) Temporary directional real estate signs for community -wide annual events
such as the "Parade of Homes".
(c) Official or traffic signs erected by a governmental agency.
Subd. 12. The owner, lessee, or manager of any sign, and the owner of the
land upon which the sign is located, are responsible for keeping the grass and other
vegetation cut and for keeping debris and rubbish cleaned up and removed from the
property where the sign is located. Further, the same parties shall be responsible for
assuring that every sign, including those which may be specifically exempt from these
regulations relative to permits and permit fees, shall be maintained in good structural
condition at all times. All signs shall be kept neatly painted, including all metal parts and
supports thereof that are not galvanized or of rust resistant material.
Subd. 13. Signs which, by reason of deterioration, may become unsafe or
unsightly, shall be repaired or removed by the licensee, sign owner, or owner of the
property upon which the sign stands, upon written notice of the City Zoning
Administrator.
Subd. 14. No signs shall be permitted which include content classified as
"obscene" as defined by Minnesota Statutes Section 617.241.
Subd. 15. All signs shall direct primary attention to the business, commodity,
service, activity, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered on the premises where the
sign is located, except as otherwise specified and allowed.
Subd. 16. The construction of all signs permitted by this Section shall be in
accordance with the Minnesota State Building Code, which is hereby adopted by
reference as part of this Section, a copy of which shall be maintained by the Zoning
Administrator.
Subd. 17. No temporary or permanent sign shall be tacked, or otherwise
attached to trees, fences, utility poles, or other such structures or supports, unless
expressly permitted by this Section or other law. This prohibition includes signs or sign
panels attached to outdoor athletic field fences.
Subd. 18. No multi -vision sign or any other sign which revolves, rotates, or
has any visible moving parts shall be permitted, except that signs alternately displaying
time and temperature and barber poles may be allowed.
Subd. 19. No temporary or permanent sign shall be permitted in conjunction
with any home occupation or licensed home occupation.
Subd. 20. No new outdoor advertising signs are permitted in any zoning
district. Outdoor advertising signs which exist on April 1, 1998 shall be considered
conforming uses.
Subd. 21. Outdoor advertising signs are a principal use of property. All such
signs must be removed as a condition of subdivision, platting, site plan, or PUD approval
for new uses or structures on the parcel where the outdoor advertising sign is located.
Subd. 22. Signs are not permitted on bus benches.
Subd. 23. The owner of any sign which is otherwise allowed by this Section
may substitute non-commercial speech in lieu of any other commercial speech or non-
commercial speech. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring
of commercial speech over non-commercial speech or favoring of any particular non-
commercial speech over any other non-commercial speech. This provision prevails over
any more specific provision to the contrary. This substitution of copy may be made
without any additional approval or permitting so long as the substitution changes the
message of the sign only. The exemption to separate approvals or permits shall not be
construed as relieving the sign owner from responsibility for its erection and maintenance
or its compliance with the provisions of this Section or any other law or ordinance
regulating the same.
21155.06. DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS:
Subd. 1. All Districts. The following signs are permitted in all zoning
districts subject to applicable administrative procedures of Section 21155.07.
(a) On -Site Directional Signs. On-site directional signs shall be permitted in
any approved off-street parking area, when deemed necessary for the orderly
movement of traffic, provided all the following conditions are met:
(1) Directional signs shall not exceed four (4) square feet of surface
area, and shall not project higher than eight (8) feet above grade, except
that directional signs for buildings over 400,000 square feet in area shall
not exceed fourteen (14) square feet of surface area.
(2) Directional signs directed at persons off the site shall be limited to
one (1) such sign per street access to the site.
(3) Directional signs shall not be illuminated unless illumination is
deemed by the City as essential to the orderly flow of traffic.
(4) Directional signs shall be located and designed so as to not
obstruct traffic or vision of drivers and pedestrians.
(5) At least seventy-five (75) percent of the surface area shall be used
to indicate the direction of traffic or to direct traffic to a specific location.
(b) Off -Site Directional Signs.
(1) In addition to other freestanding signs permitted in the applicable
zoning district, off-site directional signs are permitted for businesses,
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apartment complexes, or institutions that are not located on a minor
arterial or a major collector street. Such uses may display one (1) off-site
directional sign on private property that abuts a minor arterial or major
collector street, subject to the following requirements:
a. Off-site directional signs may be located in any zoning
district.
b. There shall be no more than one (1) off-site directional sign
for each business, apartment complex or institution.
C. Off-site directional signs shall be visible from a minor
arterial or major collector street.
d. Off-site directional signs shall be located at the major
intersection nearest to the business, apartment complex or
institution displaying the sign.
e. There shall be no more than one (1) off-site directional sign
per intersection corner.
f. Off-site directional signs shall not exceed four (4) square
feet in surface area or eight (8) feet in height.
g. Off-site directional signs shall not be illuminated.
h. At least seventy-five (75) percent of the surface area shall
be used to direct traffic to a specific location.
i. Off-site directional signs cannot be transferred to any other
entity without review and permitting by the Zoning Administrator.
j. Off-site directional signs shall be located outside of the
sight visibility triangle.
k. No off-site directional sign shall be located on any property
without the written consent of the current property owner. The
applicant for the sign permit shall be responsible to obtain written
consent from subsequent property owners.
1. Off-site directional signs required by the City of Plymouth
for public safety purposes are subject to the above requirements.
Such signs may exceed four (4) square feet in area to
accommodate an affected location address.
(Amended by Ord. No. 2001-26, 08/14/01
(2) One (1) off-site directional sign for properties located in
commercial or industrial districts may be located on an abutting premises
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if deemed necessary by the Zoning Administrator in order to avoid
confusion to the traveling public and assist emergency vehicles in locating
the premises, provided all the following conditions are met:
a. The signage rights are designated in a recorded easement or
similar instrument.
b. The premises served by the off-site directional sign shall
not have direct access to a public street.
C. The off-site directional sign shall be located on a premises
that 1) provides access to the premises served by the off --site
directional sign, and 2) has access on an arterial or collector
roadway.
d. At least seventy-five (75) percent of the surface area shall
be used to direct traffic to a specific location.
e. The sign shall comply with all other ordinance
requirements, except that the maximum height of such sign shall
not exceed five (5) feet.
(Amended by Ord. No. 2001-06, 02/13/01)
(c) Temporary Signs.
(1) Construction Signs. One (1) temporary sign not exceeding a total
surface area of ninety-six (96) square feet, not exceeding sixteen (16) feet
in height, and not less than two (2) feet above grade. Such signs shall be
set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines. Such signs shall be allowed
for three (3) years from the date of original building permit issuance, or
until construction in the development is completed, whichever occurs first.
(2) . Real Estate Signs, Off -Premise. One (1) temporary real estate
sign located off the site being developed shall not exceed sixteen (16)
square feet in surface area, or six (6) feet in height, or eight (8) feet in
width. Such signs shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines.
Off-site temporary real estate signs shall be located at least two hundred
(200) feet from any other such sign, unless grouped with other temporary
real estate signs, provided that the total surface area of all such grouped
signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet. The signs shall be
located on private property with the express consent of the property owner
who, with the owner or manager of the sign, shall be equally responsible
for the proper location, maintenance, and ultimate removal of the sign.
Such signs shall be allowed for three (3) years from the date of original
building permit issuance, or until construction in the development is
completed, whichever occurs first. More than one off-site temporary real
estate sign may be allowed per development in cases where, due to the
large size of the project or due to an incomplete roadway system, such
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signage is deemed necessary by the Zoning Administrator to' avoid
confusion to the traveling public. (Amended by Ord. No. 2001-06,
02/13/01)
(3) Non-commercial Signs. Temporary non-commercial signs of any
size and in any number may be posted from August 1 in a state general
election year until ten (10) days following the general election, and from
thirteen (13) weeks prior to any special election until ten (10) days
following the special election. Signs shall be removed not more than ten
(10) days after an election. The owner or manager of the sign, the owner
of the land, or the political candidate shall be equally responsible for the
proper location, maintenance, and ultimate removal of the signs. Setback
requirements may be waived for such signs, provided that they are located
on private property with the express consent of the property owner, and
provided that they do not impede safety by obstructing vision of
pedestrians or motor vehicle operations. (Amended by Ord. No. 2006-04,
02/07/06)
(4) Public Announcement Signs. Temporary signs for non-
commercial announcements shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in
surface area. For city-wide and free community events, up to three (3)
such signs per event may be permitted with a maximum combined surface
area not to exceed three hundred (300) square feet. Such signs shall be
located at least ten (10) feet from lot lines, and shall be removed when the
intended purpose has been fulfilled or for a maximum time of fourteen
(14) days. The owner or manager of the sign and the owner of the land
shall be equally responsible for the proper location, maintenance, and
ultimate removal of the sign. (Amended by Ord. No. 2000-06, 02/29100)
(Amended by Ord. No. 2002-02, 01/22/02)
Subd. 2. Residential Districts. Signs are accessory to permitted, interim
and conditional uses in residential districts. Only the following signs are permitted in the
FRD, RSF and RMF Districts, unless otherwise specifically provided in this Section:
(a) All signs permitted in Section 21155.06, Subd. 1.
(b) Nameplate Signs. One (1) nameplate sign provided that the surface area
does not exceed four (4) square feet. If the nameplate sign is freestanding, it shall
be located at least ten (10) feet from lot lines, and shall not exceed six (6) feet in
height.
(c) Signs for Non -Residential Uses.
(1) One (1) freestanding sign not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet
in surface area. The sign shall be located at least ten (10) feet from lot
lines, and shall not exceed six (6) feet in height.
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(2) Wall signage shall be permitted on one wall of allowed non-
residential uses; however, lots with frontage on two or more streets may
have signage on one wall per street frontage. Such signage shall not
exceed fifty (50) square feet in surface area, or five (5) percent of the area
of the wall to which the sign is attached, whichever is greater. (Amended
by Ord. No. 2000-06, 02/29/00)
(d) Area Identification Signs.
(1) Area identification signage shall be permitted for each multi -
residential project or residential subdivision. For purposes of this Section,
residential subdivisions shall include all phases of approved staged
developments.
(2) The area identification signage shall be located near entrances to
the project or subdivision, except that one (1) area identification sign does
not need to be located near an entrance to the project or subdivision
provided it is located along an abutting arterial or major collector
roadway. (Amended by Ord. No. 2002-02, 01122102)
(3) Two (2) area identification signs, not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in surface area per sign, or ten (10) feet in height, may be
permitted per project or subdivision. An area identification sign shall be
located at least ten (10) feet from lot lines.
(4) When such signs are proposed and constructed by an individual or
firm other than the individual or association who will be responsible for
the maintenance, there shall be a covenant prepared by the proponent
establishing responsibility for the maintenance of the sign or signs over
the entire project or subdivision, to be approved by the City Attorney, and
to be recorded on the property title(s) prior to issuance of the sign permit.
Further, appropriate easements shall be provided for the approved signs on
the property or properties where the signs are to be located; the easements
shall be recorded prior to the issuance of the sign permit.
(e) Temporary Transient Merchant Signs. One (1) temporary sign for
transient merchants and transient produce merchants in the FRD District only.
The sign shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in surface area, and shall not
exceed six (6) feet in height. The sign shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from
the lot lines, and shall be erected only during the period of transient sales as
defined by the administrative permit.
(f) Temporary Real Estate Signs, On -Premise. One (1) temporary sign
related to the sale, rent, or lease of land, parcels and lots, of primary buildings,
and of areas within primary buildings shall be less than eight (8) square feet in
surface area. Apartment complexes may have one (1) wall sign with a surface
area not to exceed five (5) percent of the area of the wall to which it is attached.
Such apartment complex wall signage may be used not more than four (4) times
per calendar year, and for a period of not more than fourteen (14) days per time.
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The owner or manager of the sign and the owner of the land, shall be equally
responsible for the proper location, maintenance, and ultimate removal of the
sign.
(g) Private Drive Signs. One (1) private drive sign not exceeding eight (8)
square feet in area or five (5) feet in height shall be located near each entrance to
a private drive, pursuant to Section 21137 of this Chapter. (Amended by Ord. No.
2002-32,11126102)
Subd. 3. O, Office District. Signs are accessory to permitted, conditional,
and interim uses in the O District. Only the following signs are permitted in this district,
unless otherwise specifically provided in this Section:
(a) All signs permitted in Section 21155.06, Subd. 1.
(b) Freestanding Signs. One (1) freestanding sign not exceeding sixty-four
(64) square feet in surface area, and maximum height of sixteen (16) feet. The
sign shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines.
(c) Wall Signage.
(1) Wall signage shall be permitted on one wall; however, lots with
frontage on two or more streets may'have signage on one wall per street
frontage. Such signage shall not exceed fifty (50) square feet in surface
area, or five (5) percent of the area of the wall to which the sign is
attached, whichever is greater; and, shall not extend more than eighteen
(18) inches from the face of the building except that such signage may
extend from the face of the roof over a covered walk, or from a marquee,
providing the signage does not extend above the roof line or parapet of
said building. (Amended by Ord. No. 99-5, 01/19/99)
(2) Canopies shall be considered to be an integral part of the structure
to which they are accessory. Signs may be attached to a canopy, but such
structures shall not be considered as part of the wall area, and thus shall
not warrant additional sign area. Canopy signage shall be deducted from
the permitted wall signage area.
(d) Area Identification Signs.
(1) Area identification signage shall be permitted for commercial
developments with two or more structures.
(2) The area identification signage shall be located near entrances to
the development, except that one (1) area identification sign does not need
to be located near an entrance to the project or subdivision provided it is
located along an abutting arterial or major collector roadway.
(3) Two (2) area identification signs, not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in surface area per sign, or ten (10) feet in height, may be
14
permitted per development. An area identification sign shall be located at
least ten (10) feet from lot lines.
(4) When such signs are proposed and constructed by an individual or
firm other than the individual or association who will be responsible for
the maintenance, there shall be a covenant prepared by the proponent
establishing responsibility for the maintenance of the sign or signs over
the entire project or subdivision, to be approved by the City Attorney, and
to be recorded on the property title(s) prior to issuance of the sign permit.
Further, appropriate easements shall be provided for the approved signs on
the property or properties where the signs are to be located; the easements
shall be recorded prior to the issuance of the sign permit.
(e) Signs for Residential Uses. For residential uses in the O District, signs
shall be permitted as allowed in Section 21155.06, Subd. 2.
(f) Temporary Signs.
(1) Special Event Signs. One temporary sign may be mounted on a
portable stand, with a maximum surface area not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet, or may be a wall sign subject to the same size standards as the
permanent wall signage allowed for the use. Such signs must be located
on the subject property and may be used not more than four (4) times per
calendar year, and for a period of not more than fourteen (14) days per
time. Multi -tenant buildings with five (5) or more lease -spaces shall be
permitted one such sign per tenant per calendar year. Multi -tenant
buildings with less than five (5) lease -spaces shall be considered as a
single property for purposes of this paragraph. The use of the single
temporary sign by tenants on the property shall be the responsibility of the
property owner or designated manager who shall endorse in writing, all
applications for sign permits. The owner or manager of the sign and the
owner of the property shall be equally responsible for the proper location,
maintenance, and removal of the sign. The sign, sign supports, and
portable stand shall be removed from public view at the end of the period.
(2) Transient Merchant Signs. One (1) temporary sign for transient
merchants and transient produce merchants. The sign shall not exceed
sixteen (16) square feet in surface area, and shall not exceed six (6) feet in
height. The sign shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines and
shall be erected only during the period of transient sales as defined by the
administrative permit.
(3) Real Estate Signs, On -Premise. One (1) temporary sign
announcing the development, the availability of lots and/or buildings, the
sale, rent, or lease of land, of primary buildings, and of areas within
primary buildings shall have a surface area not exceeding ninety-six (96)
square feet, shall be located on the subject property, and shall be removed
when the intended purpose has been fulfilled. If the sign is freestanding, it
shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines, and shall not be
15
located in any required side or rear yard. The owner or manager of the
sign and the owner of the land, shall be equally responsible for the proper
location, maintenance, and ultimate removal of the sign.
(Amended by Ord. No. 2002-02, 01122/02)
Subd. 4. Other Commercial Districts. Signs are accessory to permitted,
interim, and conditional uses in the C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, and B -C Districts. Only the
following signs are permitted in these districts, unless otherwise specifically provided in
this Section: (Amended by Ord. No. 2000-09, 03/21100)
(a) All signs permitted in Section 21155.06, Subd. 1.
(b) Wall Signage.
(1) Allowable uses and business establishments, including individual
business and tenants in multi -tenant commercial buildings, may have wall
signage provided such signage not extend more than eighteen (18) inches
from the building, except that such signage may extend from the face of
the roof over a covered walk, or from a marquee, provided the signage
does not extend above the roof or parapet of said building. Wall signage
shall be permitted on one wall; however, lots with frontage on two or more
streets may have signage on one wall per street frontage. Such signage
shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the area of the wall to which the
signage is attached. All such signs shall be reviewed by the building
ownership or management who shall provide a written endorsement at the
time application is made for the sign permit.
(2) Canopies shall be considered to be an integral part of the structure
to which they are accessory. Signs may be attached to a canopy, but such
structures shall not be considered as part of the wall area, and thus shall
not warrant additional sign area. Canopy signage shall be deducted from
the permitted wall signage area. Canopies for motor vehicle fuel sales that
do not include a convenience market on the lot shall be permitted separate
signage. Such signage may occur on all faces of the canopy and shall not
exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in surface area or twenty (20) percent
of the face of the canopy to which the signs are attached, whichever is
greater. (Amended by Ord. No. 2001-25, 08/14/01)
(c) Freestanding Signs.
(1) One (1) freestanding sign not to exceed one hundred (100) square
feet in surface area or thirty-six (36) feet in height, and set back at least ten
(10) feet from lot lines.
(2) The freestanding sign shall be allowed to have up to 25 percent of
the sign area to include a time and temperature sign, a changeable copy
sign, an electronic changeable copy sign or an electronic graphic display
16
sign. The portion of the sign containing changeable copy (electronic or
not) or electronic graphic display shall be an integral part of the sign or
shall be directly connected to the non -changeable copy portion of the sign.
(Amended by Ord. No. 2000-06, 02129/00) (Amended by Ord. No.
2005-30, 11/29/05)
(d) In addition to the freestanding sign above, restaurant uses in the C-3 and
C-4 districts with a drive-through facility may have up to two (2) additional signs,
subject to the following conditions:
(1) The combined surface area of the two signs shall not exceed 40
square feet.
(2) Neither sign shall exceed eight (8) feet in height from grade to the
top of the sign.
(3) The sign(s) shall be single -sided, located adjacent to the drive-
through aisle, and oriented so that the signs provide information to the
patrons using the drive-through facility only.
(4) If two signs are used, they shall be similarly designed with the
same style, materials and color. .
(5) Extenders shall not be attached to any sign in excess of the
maximum size allowed.
(Amended by Ord. No. 99-5, 01119199 and Ord. No. 2003-06,
03125/03)
(e) Area Identification Signs.
(1) Area identification signage shall be permitted for commercial
developments with two or more structures.
(2) The area identification signage shall be located near entrances to
the development, except that one (1) area identification sign does not need
to be located near an entrance to the project or subdivision provided it is
located along an abutting arterial or major collector roadway. (Amended
by Ord. No. 2002-02, 01/22/02)
(3) Two (2) area identification signs, not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in surface area per sign, or ten (10) feet in height, may be
permitted per development. An area identification sign shall be located at
least ten (10) feet from lot lines.
(4) When such signs are proposed and constructed by an individual or
firm other than the individual or association who will be responsible for
17
the maintenance, there shall be a covenant prepared by the proponent
establishing responsibility for the maintenance of the sign or signs over
the entire project or subdivision, to be approved by the City Attorney, and
to be recorded on the property title(s) prior to issuance of the sign permit.
Further, appropriate easements shall be provided for the approved signs on
the property or properties where the signs are to be located; the easements
shall be recorded prior to the issuance of the sign permit.
(f) Temporary Signs.
(1) Special Event Signs. One temporary sign may be mounted on a
portable stand, with a maximum surface area not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet, or may be a wall sign subject to the same size standards as the
permanent wall signage allowed for the use. Such signs must be located
on the subject property and may be used not more than four (4) times per
calendar year, and for a period of not more than fourteen (14) days per
time. Multi -tenant buildings with five (5) or more lease -spaces shall be
permitted one such sign per tenant per calendar year. Multi -tenant
buildings with less than five (5) lease -spaces shall be considered as a
single property for purposes of this paragraph. The use of the single
temporary sign by tenants on the property shall be the responsibility of the
property owner or designated manager who shall endorse in writing, all
applications for sign permits. The owner or manager of the sign and the
owner of the property shall be equally responsible for the proper location,
maintenance, and removal of the sign. The sign, sign supports, and
portable stand shall be removed from public view at the end of the period.
(2) Transient Merchant Signs. One (1) temporary sign for transient
merchants and transient produce merchants. The sign shall not exceed
sixteen (16) square feet in surface area, and shall not exceed six (6) feet in
height. The sign shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines and
shall be erected only during the period of transient sales as defined by the
administrative permit.
(3) Real Estate Signs, On -Premise. One (1) temporary sign
announcing the development, the availability of lots and/or buildings, the
sale, rent, or lease of land, of primary buildings, and of areas within
primary buildings shall have a surface area not exceeding ninety-six (96)
square feet, shall be located on the subject property, and shall be removed
when the intended purpose has been fulfilled. If the sign is freestanding, it
shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines. The owner or
manager of the sign and the owner of the land, shall be equally responsible
for the proper location, maintenance, and ultimate removal. of the sign.
(Amended by Ord. No. 2000-06, 02/29/00)
Subd. 5. CC (City Center) Districts. Signs are accessory to permitted,
interim, and conditional uses in the CC -P, CC -R, CC -RE, and CC -OT Districts. Only the
following signs are permitted in these districts unless otherwise specifically provided in
this Section:
IV
(a) All signs permitted in Section 21155.06, Subd. 1.
(b) Wall signage:
(1) Allowable uses and business establishments, including individual
business and tenants in multi -tenant commercial buildings, may have wall
signage provided such signage not extend more than eighteen (18) inches
from the building, except that such signage may extend from the face of
the roof over a covered walk, or from a marquee, provided the signage
does not extend above the roof or parapet of said building. Wall signage
shall be permitted on one wall; however, lots with frontage on two or more
streets may have signage on one wall per street frontage. Such signage
shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the area of the wall to which the
signage is attached. All such signs shall be reviewed by the building
ownership or management who shall provide a written endorsement at the
time application is made for the sign permit.
(2) Canopies shall be considered to be an integral part of the structure
to which they are accessory. Signs may be attached to a canopy, but such
structures shall not be considered as part of the wall area, and thus shall
not warrant additional sign area. Canopy signage shall be deducted from
the permitted wall signage area. Canopies for motor vehicle fuel sales that
do not include a convenience market on the lot shall be permitted separate
signage. Such signage may occur on all faces of the canopy and shall not
exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in surface area or twenty (20) percent
of the face of the canopy to which the signs are attached, whichever is
greater.
(c) Freestanding Signs:
(1) CC -R, CC -RE, and CC -OT: One (1) monument sign shall be
permitted per lot, provided the height shall not exceed ten (10) feet, and
the surface area of the sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
Such signage shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from all lot lines.
(2) CC -P: One (1) monument sign shall be permitted per lot, provided
the height shall not exceed ten (10) feet, and the surface area of the sign
shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet. Such signage shall be set
back at least ten (10) feet from all lot lines. The monument sign may
include a changeable copy sign, an electronic changeable copy sign or an
electronic graphic display sign provided it is set back at least fifteen (15)
feet from all lot lines.
(3) For properties directly abutting Highway 55, one freestanding sign
not exceeding thirty-six (36) feet in height shall be permitted per lot in lieu
of the monument sign identified in (1) above, provided the surface area of
the sign shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet. Any such
freestanding sign shall be located between Highway 55 and the building,
19
and shall be setback at least ten (10) feet from all lot lines. Twenty-five
(25) percent of the surface area may be used for a time and temperature
sign, except that time and temperature signs shall not be permitted if any
adjacent property has a time or temperature sign.
(d) Area Identification Signs:
(1) Area identification signage shall be permitted for commercial
developments with two or more structures.
(2) The area identification signage shall be located near entrances to
the development, except that one (1) area identification sign does not need
to be located near an entrance to the project or subdivision provided it is
located along an abutting arterial or major collector roadway.
(3) Two (2) area identification signs, not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in surface area per sign, or ten (10) feet in height, may be
permitted per development. An area identification sign shall be located at
least ten (10) feet from lot lines.
(4) When such signs are proposed and constructed by an individual or
firm other than the individual or association who will be responsible for
the maintenance, there shall be a covenant prepared by the proponent
establishing responsibility for the maintenance of the sign or signs over
the entire project or subdivision, to be approved by the City Attorney, and
to be recorded on the property title(s) prior to issuance of the sign permit.
Further, appropriate easements shall be provided for the approved signs on
the property or properties where the signs are to be located; the easements
shall be recorded prior to the issuance of the sign permit.
(e) Temporary Signs:
(1) Special Event Signs. One temporary sign may be mounted on a
portable stand, with a maximum surface area not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet, or may be a wall sign subject to the same size standards as the
permanent wall signage allowed for the use. Such signs must be located
on the subject property and may be used not more than four (4) times per
calendar year, and for a period of not more than fourteen (14) days per
time. Multi -tenant buildings with five (5) or more lease -spaces shall be
permitted one such sign per tenant per calendar year. Multi -tenant
buildings with less than five (5) lease -spaces shall be considered as a
single property for purposes of this paragraph. The use of the single
temporary sign by tenants on the property shall be the responsibility of the
property owner or designated manager who shall endorse in writing, all
applications for sign permits. The owner or manager of the sign and the
owner of the property shall be equally responsible for the proper location,
maintenance, and removal of the sign. The sign, sign supports, and
portable stand shall be removed from public view at the end of the period.
20
(2) Transient Merchant Signs. One (1) temporary sign for transient
merchants and transient produce merchants. The sign shall not exceed
sixteen (16) square feet in surface area, and shall not exceed six (6) feet in
height. The sign shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines and
shall be erected only during the period of transient sales as defined by the
administrative permit.
(3) Real Estate Signs, On -Premise. One (1) temporary sign
announcing the development, the availability of lots and/or buildings, the
sale, rent, or lease of land, of primary buildings, and of areas within
primary buildings shall have a surface area not exceeding ninety-six (96)
square feet, shall be located on the subject property, and shall be removed
when the intended purpose has been fulfilled. If the sign is freestanding, it
shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines. The owner or
manager of the sign and the owner of the land, shall be equally responsible
for the proper location, maintenance, and ultimate removal of the sign.
Subd.6 Industrial Districts. Signs are accessory to permitted and
conditional uses in the I-1, I-2 and I-3 Districts. Only the following signs are permitted
in this district unless otherwise specifically provided in this Section:
(a) All signs permitted in Section 21155.06, Subd. 1.
(b) Wall Signage.
(1) Allowable uses and business establishments, including individual
business and tenants in multi -tenant commercial buildings, may have wall
signage provided such signage not extend more than eighteen (18) inches
from the building, except that such signage may extend from the face of
the roof over a covered walk, or from a marquee, provided the signage
does not extend above the roof or parapet of said building. Such wall
signage shall be permitted on one wall; however, lots with frontage on two
or more streets may have signage on one wall per street frontage. Such
signage shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the area of the wall to which
the signage is attached. All such signs shall be reviewed by the building
ownership or management who shall provide a written endorsement at the
time application is made for the sign permit.
(2) Canopies shall be considered to be an integral part of the structure
to which they are accessory. Signs may be attached to a canopy, but such
structures shall not be considered as part of the wall area, and thus shall
not warrant additional sign area. Canopy signage shall be deducted from
the permitted wall signage area.
(c) Freestanding Signs. One (1) freestanding sign not exceeding one hundred
(100) square feet in surface area or thirty-six (36) feet in height, and is set back at
least ten (10) feet from lot lines. The surface area of the sign may be increased to
a maximum of one hundred sixty (160) square feet for industrial developments of
over twenty (20) acres.
21
(d) Area Identification Signs.
(1) Area identification signage shall be permitted for industrial
developments with two or more structures.
(2) The area identification signage shall be located at the entrance to
the development.
(3) Two (2) area identification signs, not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in surface area per sign, or ten (10) feet in height, may be
permitted per development. An area identification sign shall be located at
least ten (10) feet from lot lines.
(4) When such signs are proposed and constructed by an individual or
firm other than the individual or association who will be responsible for
the maintenance, there shall be a covenant prepared by the proponent
establishing responsibility for the maintenance of the sign or signs over
the entire project or subdivision, to be approved by the City Attorney, and
to be recorded on the property title(s) prior to issuance of the sign permit.
Further, appropriate easements shall be provided for the approved signs on
the property or properties where the signs are to be located; the easements
shall be recorded prior to the issuance of the sign permit.
(e) Temporary Signs.
(1) Special Event Signs. One temporary sign may be mounted on a
portable stand, with a maximum surface area not to exceed thirty-two (32)
square feet, or may be a wall sign subject to the same size standards as the
permanent wall signage allowed for the use. Such signs must be located
on the subject property and may be used not more than four (4) times per
calendar year, and for a period of not more than fourteen (14) days per
time. Multi -tenant buildings with five (5) or more lease -spaces shall be
permitted one such sign per tenant per calendar year. Multi -tenant
buildings with less than five (5) lease -spaces shall be considered as a
single property for purposes of this paragraph. The use of the single
temporary sign by tenants on the property shall be the responsibility of the
property owner or designated manager who shall endorse in writing, all
applications for sign permits. The owner or manager of the sign and the
owner of the property shall be equally responsible for the proper location,
maintenance, and removal of the sign. The sign, sign supports, and
portable stand shall be removed from public view at the end of the period.
(2) Transient Merchant Signs. One (1) temporary sign for transient
merchants and transient produce merchants. The sign shall not exceed
sixteen (16) square feet in surface area, and shall not exceed six (6) feet in
height. The sign shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines and
22
shall be erected only during the period of transient sales as defined by the
administrative permit.
(3) Real Estate Signs, On -Premise. One (1) temporary sign
announcing the development, the availability of lots and/or buildings, the
sale, rent, or lease of land, of primary buildings, and of areas within
primary buildings shall have a surface area not exceeding ninety-six (96)
square feet, shall be located on the subject property, and shall be removed
when the intended purpose has been fulfilled. If the sign is freestanding, it
shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from lot lines. The owner or
manager of the sign and the owner of the land, shall be equally responsible
for the proper location, maintenance, and ultimate removal of the sign.
Subd. 7. Public Institutional Districts. Signs are accessory to permitted,
conditional and interim uses in the P -I District. Only the following signs are allowed in
these districts, unless otherwise specifically provided in this Section.
(a) All signs permitted in Section 21155.06, Subd. 1.
(b) One monument sign per street frontage, provided that:
(1) The sign does not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet in surface area
or ten (10) feet in height. The sign shall be set back at least ten (10) feet
from lot lines. (Amended by Ord. No. 99-5, 01119199)
(2) The sign may include a changeable copy sign, an electronic
changeable copy sign or an electronic graphic display sign, provided that:
a. The sign shall be setback at least fifty (50) feet from side
and rear property lines, except that in no case shall such signage be
set back less than one hundred (100) feet from any directly
abutting residentially guided or used property.
b. The sign shall not be illuminated between the hours of
10:30 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
(3) The sign may be single or double faced.
(Amended by Ord. No. 2000-06, 02129100)
(c) Wall signage shall be permitted on one wall only, and shall not exceed
fifty (50) square feet or five (5) percent of the area of the wall to which the sign is
attached, whichever is greater.
(Amended by Ord. No. 2001-06, 02113101)
(d) Temporary signs. One temporary sign may be mounted on a portable
stand, with a maximum surface area not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet, or
may be a wall sign subject to the same size standards as the permanent wall
23
signage allowed for the use. Such signs must be located on the subject property
and may be used not more than four (4) times per calendar year, and for a period
of not more than fourteen (14) days per time. Multi -tenant buildings with five (5)
or more lease -spaces shall be permitted one such sign per tenant per calendar
year. Multi -tenant buildings with less than five (5) lease -spaces shall be
considered as a single property for purposes of this paragraph. The use of the
single temporary sign by tenants on the property shall be the responsibility of the
property owner or designated manager who shall endorse in writing, all
applications for sign permits. The owner or manager of the sign and the owner of
the property shall be equally responsible for the proper location, maintenance, and
removal of the sign. The sign, sign supports, and portable stand shall be removed
from public view at the end of the period.
Subd. 8. Planned Unit Development Districts. A comprehensive sign plan
is required for all non-residential PUDs (Planned Unit Development). Sign requirements
within PUD Districts which are the same as those imposed in the corresponding zoning
district in which the use is customarily permitted may be approved as part of the PUD
final plan. Comprehensive sign plans which require variances from those standards shall
require a PUD amendment.
(Amended by Ord. No 2000-06, 02/29/00)
21155.07. ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT: The sign regulations
set forth in this Section shall be administered and enforced by the Zoning Administrator.
The procedures, standards and requirements for the administration and enforcement of
the provisions shall be in accordance with this Section, the City Code, and other
applicable laws and regulations.
Subd. 1. Permits Required. No sign shall be erected, altered, improved,
reconstructed, maintained or moved in the City without first securing a permit from the
City, except for those signs which are specifically exempted by these regulations.
(a) An application for a permit shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator
in accordance with the permit procedures of the City Code and the requirements
of this Section. The application shall include the information required by the
form provided by the City and shall be accompanied by appropriate documents
and plan or plans drawn to scale which legibly and accurately reflect the
following:
(1) The location of proposed and existing signs in relation to property
lines and existing and proposed building based upon a certified survey or
site plan approved by the City which accurately reflects current conditions
on the property.
(2) The design, full dimensions, and specifications including the
method of construction, and attachment to a building or placement in the
ground.
24
(3) Stress calculations, where applicable, indicating that the structure's
design for dead load and wind pressure in any direction in the amount
required by City Code and regulations.
(4) The addition, deletion, alteration, replacement or improvement of
any electrical component.
(5) Such other information as the Zoning Administrator or Building
Official shall require to show full compliance with this Section and other
applicable laws or codes of the City. The Zoning Administrator may
waive requirements for technical information specified above where such
information is not necessary to the determination of compliance.
(b) The appropriate permit fee as set forth in the City Code shall be required
prior to issuance of the permit.
(c) The Zoning Administrator shall notify the applicant, in writing, of an
incomplete application within fifteen (15) days of the date of submission.
(d) The Zoning Administrator shall review the application and related
materials and shall determine whether the proposal is in compliance with all
applicable evaluation criteria, codes, ordinances, and applicable performance
standards set forth in this Section within sixty (60) days of submission of a
complete application.
(e) The Zoning Administrator shall, upon approval, issue a written permit
authorizing the proposed sign and related work; the permit shall, where
applicable, specify the duration of the sign; and the permit shall indicate any
special conditions or requirements related to the construction of the sign
(f) Expiration and renewal of permits shall be in accordance with the
provisions of the Minnesota State Building Code for building permits.
Subd. 2. Signs Not Requiring Permits. The following signs and work do
not require a permit. The exemptions shall not be construed as relieving the owner or
contractor of the sign from responsibility for its erection and maintenance, and its
compliance with the provisions of this Section or any other law or ordinance regulating
the same.
(a) Official signs located in the public right-of-way or traffic signs erected by
a governmental agency.
(b) Changing the copy or message of an allowed sign expressly designed with
changeable copy or changing the display surface on a painted or printed sign only
(as in poster replacement or on-site changes involving sign painting elsewhere
than directly on a building).
(c) Changing the copy or sign face of an outdoor advertising sign, unless a
major structural change or a change to the electrical components is involved.
25
(d) Address letters and numerals required by and in conformance with City
Codes. Included are related signs, not to exceed two (2) square feet, displayed
strictly for the convenience of the public such as identification signs for rest
rooms, waste receptacles, door bells, mailboxes, reserved parking spaces, loading
zones, or primary building entrances.
(e) Temporary real estate signs that do not exceed eight square feet in surface
area as authorized by Section 21155.06.
(f) Directional signs for free community events and community -wide annual
events such as the "Parade of Homes" as authorized by Section 21155.05.
(g) Temporary construction signs that do not exceed eight (8) square feet in
sign area, as authorized by Section 21155.06.
(h) Non-commercial signs not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in sign
area, and all non-commercial signs authorized by Section 21155.06, Subd. 1 (c)
(3). (Amended by Ord. No. 2006-04, 02/07/06)
(i) Temporary signs in conjunction with an approved administrative permit.
0) Flags.
Subd.3. Enforcement. All signs shall be subject to inspection by the
Zoning Administrator or authorized designees who are hereby authorized to enter upon
any property or premises to ascertain whether these regulations are being met. Such
entrance shall be made during normal business hours, unless a clear and present
emergency exists. The Zoning Administrator may order, in writing, the removal of any
sign that is not maintained in accordance with the standards or maintenance requirements
of this Section. Continued violations of this Section shall be administered and prosecuted
in accordance with the City Code.
Subd.4. Removal of Abandoned Signs, Signs in Disrepair and Signs
Located in the Public Right -of -Way.
(a) Abandoned Signs and Signs in Disrepair: An abandoned sign or sign in
disrepair is prohibited and shall be removed by the owner of the premises within
30 days after notification. If compliance with the provisions of this Section is not
achieved within 30 days, the sign shall be deemed a public nuisance by following
the procedure as specified in Section 2010 of the Plymouth City Code. If an
abandoned sign remains in good condition and without holes or other evidence of
disrepair or damage, the sign shall not be considered as abandoned for a period of
one year.
(b) Signs on Public Property or Within Public Right -of -Way: The City may at
any time and without notice impound signs which have been installed on public
property or within public right-of-way or easement.
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Subd. 5. Variances and Appeals. Variances from the dimensional and
location standards of this Section shall be subject to the procedures and requirements set
forth in Section 21030 of this Chapter. No variances shall be considered which would
allow signs in districts or places where such signs are prohibited or not allowed. Appeals
to administrative rulings of the Zoning Administrator shall be made in accordance with
the procedures and requirements of Section 21035 of this Chapter.
21155.08. LICENSING REQUIREMENT: No person or company shall be
engaged in the business of installing, erecting, constructing, placing, maintaining, renting,
leasing, or removing signs within the City of Plymouth without first obtaining a sign
contractor's license. The procedures and fees for such license shall be as set forth in
Chapter 10 of the City Code.
21155.09. TEMPORARY OUTDOOR PROMOTIONAL EVENTS: The
Zoning Administrator shall approve signs or other devices; the purpose of which is to
attract attention that do not comply with the standards of this Section when such signs or
devices are directly related to, and a part of, a temporary outdoor promotional event as
defined and regulated by Section 21025. Examples of the signage and devices that may
be requested in this matter are spotlights, skytrackers, inflatables, balloons, portable
signage, and similar devices. All requests for approval by the Zoning Administrator
responsive to this paragraph shall be made with the initial application for a temporary
outdoor promotional event as defined and regulated in Section 21455.11, Subd. 9 of this
Chapter. The request for such signs/devices shall conform to the following requirements:
Subd. 1. The sign/device shall only be located on the site during the
duration of the event as defined in the administrative permit.
Subd. 2. No sign/device shall be located on the roof of any building, in the
public right-of-way, within any required yard, or in any location that impairs the parking
capacity, pedestrian and vehicular traffic circulation, or emergency access.
Subd. 3. Only one sign/device shall be allowed per event and no more than
one sign/device shall be allowed on a property at any one time.
(Amended by Ord. No. 98-11, 04/01/98) (Amended by Ord. No. 2005-01, 01/11/05)
SECTION 2. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its
passage.
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ADOPTED by the City Council on January 23, 2007.
Kelli Slavik, Mayor
ATTEST:
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Sandra R. Engdahl, y Clerk