O88-33ORDINANCE NO. 88- ~
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA,
REPEALING CHAPTER 21 SIGNS. SECTION 21-1
THROUGH 21-26 IN THEIR ENTIRETY;
ENACTING A NEW CHAPTER 21. SIGNS.
SECTION 21-1 THROUGH 21-26;PROVIDING A
PURPOSE; PROVIDING DEFINITIONS;
PROVIDING FOR PERMIT REQUIREMENTS;
PROVIDING EXEMPTIONS TO REQUIREMENTS;
PROVIDING PERMIT APPLICATION PROCEDURES;
PROVIDING FOR INTERPRETATION STANDARDS;
PROVIDING FOR PERMIT FEES; PROVIDING FOR
THE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS; PROVIDING FOR
PERMIT NUMBERS TO BE DISPLAYED ON SIGNS;
PROVIDING FOR PERMIT EXPIRATION;
PROVIDING FOR LICENSING COMPETENCY OF
CONTRACTOR; PROVIDING FOR SIGN
STRUCTURES WHICH ARE PROHIBITED;
PROVIDING FOR SIGNS WHICH ARE PERMITTED
AND REGULATED IN VARIOUS ZONING
DISTRICTS; PROVIDING FOR SPECIAL SIGNS;
PROVIDING FOR MINIMUM CLEARANCE HEIGHTS;
PROVIDING FOR RIGID CONSTRUCTION;
PROVIDING FOR REINSPECTION OF ALL SIGNS;
PROVIDING FOR MISLEADING ADVERTISING;
PROVIDING FOR OBSOLETE SIGNS TO BE
REMOVED; PROVIDING FOR NON'CONFORMING
SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR HAZARDOUS SIGNS~D
MATERIALS; PROVIDING FOR PROCEDURES !ON
VIOLATIONS; PROVIDING FOR TEMPORARY
POLITICAL SIGNS AND ADVERTISING;
PROVIDING FOR VARIANCES FROM
REQUIREMENTS; PROVIDING A
CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY ;
PROVIDING AUTHORITY TO CODIFY;
AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY T~R CITY COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA THAT:
Section 1. Chapter 21.
21-26 inclusive, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of
Boynton Beach is hereby repealed in its entirety.
Section 2. New Chapter 21. Signs. Section 21-1 through
21-26 attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated herein
by reference is hereby adopted in its entirety.
Section.3~. That all ordinances or parts of ordinances
in conflict herewith be and the same are hereby repealed.
Section 4. Should any section or provision of this
ordinance or portion hereof, any paragraph, sentence, or
word be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be
invalid, such decision shall not affect the remainder of
this ordinance.
Section 5:
ordinance.
Section 6. This
immediately upon passage.
FIRST READING this ~/~ day of
1988.
Authority is hereby granted to codify said
ordinance shall become effective
SECOND, FINAL READING and PASSAGE this
· 1988.
~'~day of
ATTEST:
(Corporate Seal)
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH· FLORIDA
Ma~or
Commis~io~9~-- v ~
Commissioner
commissio~erO~%"~'~
Chapter 21
SIGNS
Sec. 21-1. Short form.
The short form by which this chapter shall be known shall be "The
Boynton Beach Sign Ordinance." (Code 1958, § 24-1; Ord. No. 79-15, §1,
5-16-79)
Sec. 21-2. Purpose.
It shall be the purpose of this chapter to promote the aesthetics,
safety, health, morals and general welfare and the assurance of pro-
tection of adequate light and air within the City; to recognize the
commercial communication requirements of all sectors of the business
community; to encourage the innovative use of design; to promote both
renovation and proper maintenance; by regulation of the posting,
displaying, erection, use and maintenance of signs (Code 1958, § 24-2;
Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, 5-15-79)
Sec. 21-3. Definitions.
Certain words and terms in this chapter are defined for the pur-
pose thereof as follows:
Advertising structure. A sign structure erected or intended for
advertising purposes, with or without advertisement display thereon,
situated upon or attached to real property, upon which any poster,
banner, bill, printing, painting, or device, is fastened, affixed, or
displayed; provided, however, said term shall not include a building.
Arcade. A permanent, roof-life structure open to the weather on
one or more sides, constructed of rigid materials, which is can-
tilevered from the building wall, attached to and supported by the
exterior building wall or supported by freestanding columns or
pillars.
Arcade sign. A sign which is perpendicular to the building face
and. is suspended from, attached to, supported from or forms a part of
an arcade.
Area. Sign area shall be that part of a sign within the perimeter
of the sign face, not including the structure and frame.
Banner. A sign having the characters, letters, illustrations, or
ornamentations applied to cloth, paper, film or fabric of any kind
with only such material for a backing. Banner shall include balloons
or any animated or fluttering devices designed to attract attention
not including national, state, municipal or church flags.
Building Facade. That portion of [any] exterior elevations of a
building extending from grade to the top of the parapet wall ~r eaves
and the entire width of the building elevations.
Combustible sign. Any sign or sign structure which will ignite or
support flames and which has a low flame point. Prime examples of
combustible signs would be wood, non U.L. approved plastics, cloths,
etc.
Construction sign. A temporary, nonilluminated sign identifying, the
owner, contractor, subcontractor, material supplier, architect,
engineer and/or financial institution affiliated with the project or
participating in construction on the property on which the sign is
located and where continuous construction activities appear to be in
progress. (Proof of activity is the responsibility of the principal
contractor identified on the sign.)
Covered walkway. A permanent, roof-like structure open to the
weather on one or more sides.
Covered walkway sign. A sign which is perpendicular to the
building face and is suspended from, attached to, supported from or
forms a part of a covered walkway, and which is rigid.
Customary Plaque. Wording, not'to exceed two (2) square feet
identifying address, an OpePat~P'$ namei or an activity taking place
in the facility.
Directional sign.
(1) On premise incidental signs designated to guide or direct
pedestrians or vehicular traffic.
(2)
Signs erected or permitted by the City, Palm Beach County,
State of Florida, or the United States Government or agency
thereof for the direction or safety of the public.
(3) A sign, notice or symbol as to the time and place of regular
civic meetings and religious activities and services.
Directory sign. A freestanding or flat sign listing only the name
and/or use, or location of more than one business, activity or pro-
fession conducted within a building, group of buildings or commercial
center.
Double faced sign. (Angle Sign) A sign with two {2) faces which
are back to back with no more than a 45° angle between faces.
Electrical sign. A sign or sign structure in which integral
electric wiring, connections and/or fixtures are used as the sign
proper when connected to an electric source. {Must meet requirement
of City Electrical Code}
Fixed projection sign. A sign, other than a flat sign, which
extends outward for more than ten {10} inches from the facade of
any building and is rigidly affixed thereto.
Flag. A piece of cloth used as the national, state, municipal
or church symbol properly displayed in accordance with published
federal, state, municipal or church adopted guidelines and displayed
on a designated pole located in a proper holder or in other ways
approved by appropriate national, state municipal or church agency.
Flat sign. A sign erected parallel to and extending not more than
eighteen {18) inches from the facade of any building to which it is
attached and supported throughout its entire length by the facade of
the building and not extending above the building.
Freestanding sign. A pylon or freestanding sign which is supported
by one or more columns, uprights, or braces in or upon the ground and
which identifies only the project title or one main use.
Identification sign. A sign affixed to the rear of a building
bearing the business name and/or address of the occupant.
Inspector. A City employee working as an inspector under the
authority and direction of the City Building Official.
Mall. A single building, enclosing a number of tenants and
occupancies wherein two or more tenants have a main entrance into an
enclosed, roofed over area designed as a pedestrian public way.
Off premise sign. A sign, including building signs, advertising
an establishment, merchandise, service, or entertainment, which is
sold, produced, manufactured, and/or furnished at a place other than
the property on which said sign is located.
On premise sign. A sign or sign device, indicating the business
transacted, services rendered, goods sold or produced on the premises
including name of the business, name of the person, firm or corporation
occupying the premises, Such sign shall be located where the use, for
which the sign is identifying or advertising is located.
Painted wall sign. A sign painted on any outside wall.
Parapet. A false front or wall extension above the roof line.
Perimeter. The whole outer boundary of the sign; not including
the supporting structural members.
Political sign. A Sign erected bY a political candidate, group or
agent thereof for political purposes,
Premises. A parcel of land comprised of one or more lots for
which a site plan has been approved, if required, by the appropriate
governmental body, in accordance with Chapter 19, Article II of the
Code of Ordinances. If site plan approval is not required, the word
"premises", for the purpose of these regulations, shall mean a parcel
of land, with its appurtenances and buildings, comprised of one or
more lots having unity of use.
Public right-of-way. That land which is dedicated for pedestrian
or automotive traffic or which is dedicated for access to utilities
and is, or is intended to be, permanently open for these uses.
Real estate sign. Shall mean any sign erected by an owner or his
agent, advertising the real property upon which the sign is located as
for rent or sale. Such sign shall not include rooming house signs.
Real property. The portion of the land or buildings contained in
a legal description setting forth the boundaries of such property and
legally acknowledged under the laws of the State of Florida and Palm
Beach County.
Recreational facility. Any building or structure designated for
recreational purposes such as games, sports, etc., and including adja-
cent property included for such use.
Roof sign. A sign erected upon or above a roof or parapet wall of
a building.
Roof top sign. A sign printed on a flat roof for the purpose of
aircraft direction, information and instruction.
Shopping center. A group {2 or more) of retail stores or service
establishments or any other business, planned to serve a community,
neighborhood, or other population group not necessarily owned by one
party nor by a single land ownership, which are adjacent to and which
utilize a common parking area or common parking areas.
Sidewalk or sandwich sign. A movable sign not secured or attached
to the ground.
Sign. A device or representation for visual communication that is
used for the purpose of bringing the subject thereof to the attention
of others.
Sign, Area of. The square foot area enclosed by the perimeter of
the sign. The perimeter of the sign shall include all background
material, panel, trim and color that differentiates the sign from the
building, structure, or object on which the sign is attached. The
area around and enclosing the perimeter of each sign shall be summed
and totaled to determine the total sign area. If the sign is composed
of individual letters or symbols using the wall as the background with
no added decoration, the sign area shall be calculated by taking the
sum of the areas of the smallest contiguous rectangles containing a
letter, symbol, or continuous line or lines of advertising matter.
Sign contractor electrical. A licensed person who is qualified to
install, repair, alter, add to, or change any electrical wires,
apparatus, raceways, conduit or any part thereof on electrical signs
and is qualified to erect signs, and connect to an existing sign
circuit.
Sign contractor non-electrical. A licensed person who is
qualified to install, repair, add to, paint, or change non-electrical
signs according to the building code, and secure permits for same.
Sign face. The part of the sign that is or can be used for adver-
tising purpose.
Snipe sign. A sign of a temporary nature which is mounted to
stakes, or other objects, and which advertises or displays matter
applicable to the present use of the premises on which the sign is
located.
Special event directional sign. A sign which directs the public
to a special event located at a place other than the premises upon
which the sign is located.
Special event sign. A sign which carries a message regarding a
special event or function which is of general interest to the community.
Vehicular sign. A sign or sign structure attached or affixed in
any manner in or to any wheeled vehicle for the purpose of advertising
that business to which the sign refers, excluding, however, signs
which are painted upon or magnetically affixed to a vehicle which is
regularly used as such in the normal course of the business advertised
or which may be required by law, and further excluding such signs
attached or affixed to public transportation vehicles for business
advertising purposes when such vehicles belong to a duly licensed
public transportation company. (Code 1958, § 24-3; Ord. No. 79-15,
§ 1, 5-16-79)
Yard Sign. A temporary sign, not to exceed four (4) square feet
and which identifies a safety feature related to the particular lot.
Wall sign. See "Painted wall sign".
Window sign. Any sign which is painted on, applied to, attached
to, hanging in, or projected upon or within the exterior or interior
of a building glass area, including doors. For clarification pur-
poses, signs in this definition include but are not limited to any
-identification, message, symbol, insignia, visual representation,
logo type or any other form of communication
Sec. 21-4. Permits required.
It shall be unlawful for any person to post, display, change or
erect a sign or a sign structure within the city without first having
obtained a permit therefore, in accordance with this chapter. No sign
or sign structure, previously erected, shall come under the provisions
of the section unless a valid permit for same was issued and in effect
at the time of erection. Signs or sign structures previously erected
without a valid permit shall be termed in violation and it shall be
mandatory to obtain a permit, based on this chapter, or else remove
such sign or sign structure. (Code 1958, § 24-4; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1,
5-16-79)
Sec. 21-5. Signs not subject to permit requirement.
The following signs shall not require permits:
(a) Real estate signs conforming to the requirements set forth in
Sections 21-14(A)(1) and (3), 21-14(B), 21-14(C)(1),
21-14(I)(1) and 21-14(M)(3)(a)(1), which do not exceed three
(3) square feet in area.
(b) Directional signs erected by a governmental agency carried for
information concerning its service at the locations. {Code
1958, § 24-4; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, 5-16-79)
(c) Signs located totally within the exterior walls of a building,
and not visible from the outside of the building.
(d) A single yard sign not to exceed four (4) square feet in area.
(Beware of Dog, Watch Your Step, Address Sign, etc)
(e) A permitted sign in which only the copy is changed.
(f) Customary plaque
Sec. 21-6. Permit application.
All applications for sign or sign structure permits required in
section 21-4 shall be filed by the prospective sign or sign structure
owner, or his agent in the office of the building official upon forms
furnished by the building official. Said application shall describe
and set forth the following:
(a) The type of sign or sign structure as defined in this chapter.
(b) The estimated value of the sign and sign structure.
(c) The street address of the.prOperty upon which said sign or
sign structure is to be lOCated and a plot plan of said sign
or sign structure on said property. In the absence of a
street address a method of location acceptable to the building
official shall be used.
(d) The square foot area per sign and dimensions of sign structure.
(e) The name{s} and address of the owner or other person in
control or possession of the real property upon which said
sign and sign structure is to be located.
(f) Document with property owner's or owner's agent signature
indicating whether such person has consented to the construc-
tion, operation, maintenance, posting or displaying of such
sign and sign structure.
(g) A sketch, blueprint, blue line print, or similar presentation
showing all pertinent structural details, wind pressure
requirements, and materials to be used in accordance with the
requirements of this chapter. The seal of a Florida
registered engineer or architect shall be affixed to drawings
of signs or sign structures which have an area exceeding
32 square feet, and not to exceed ten (10) feet in height,
certifying that such signs are designed to meet Building Code
wind loads. In all cases signs shall show calculations for
wind loading, by the designer.
(h) Name of sign contractor.
(Code 1958, § 24-6; Ord. No. 79-15,
(i) For rebuilding a site with more than one use which will
require signs; an "overall design scheme" endorsed by the
owner and approved by the Community Appearance Board
or Downtown Review Board (as appropriate).
(1) For rebuilding or use change and located on a site in a
building that has had an "overall design scheme" approved
by the Community Appearance Board or Downtown Review
Board, showing that the proposed sign being considered is
consistent with the already approved "overall design
scheme".
Sec. 21-7. Interpretation of applications for permits.
In all applications for permits where a matter of interpretation
arises, the most rigid definition shall prevail. {Code 1958, § 24-21;
Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, 5-16-79}
Sec. 21-8. Permit fees.
It shall be unlawful for any person to post, display or erect
within the City a sign or sign structure without first having obtained
a permit and paid a permit fee to the City at the office of the
Building Official {other than those signs mentioned in Subsection {c}
below} as follows:
(a) See appropriate resolution for fee schedule.
(b) A double fee shall be paid for any sign erected or started to
be erected without a permit.
(c) See section 21-4
(d) For electrical signs, such additional fees as may be specified
therefor in and by the City's electrical code in force and
effect at the time of application for such permit.
(e) Such fees shall be in addition to any license tax now or
hereafter levied and assessed by the City. No fee shall be
prorated to accommodate short term publicity features. {Code
1958, § 24-6; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, 5-16-79}
Sec. 21-9. Permit issuance; contents.
Provided the provisions of this chapter have first been complied
with, and the signs or advertising structures do not violate any of
the terms, conditions, or provisions of this chapter, or of any other
law or ordinance, all freestanding signs in any zoning district and
all signs within planned districts require site plan review and shall
be filed with the Planning Department on forms furnished by the
Planning Department. The building official shall issue a permit for
such sign or advertising structure, retaining a copy thereof for his
records. Permits shall be numbered and shall disclose:
(a) The.type of sign as defined in this chapter.
(b) The street address of the property upon which said sign is
proposed to be located and the proposed location of the sign
on said property. In the absence of a street address, a
method of location acceptable to the Building Official shall
be used.
(c) The name of the sign contractor who shall erect the structure.
(d) The amount of the fee paid for such permit.
(e) The'date of issuance,
§ 1, 5-16-79)
(Code 1958, § 24-7; Ord. No. 79-15,
Sec. 21-10. Permit number to be displayed on sign.
All signs shall have permit numbers painted on or applied to the
sign, visible from ground level. (Code 1958, § 24-7; Ord. No. 79-15,
§ I, 5-16-79)
Sec. 21-11. Permit expiration.
(a) Permits required by this chapter may be issued subject to
either of the following conditions:
(1) Every permit issued shall become null and void unless the
work authorized by such permit is commenced within one
hundred eighty (180) after its issuance, or if the work
authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a
period of one hundred eighty (180) days after the time the
work is commenced.
(2) Prior to issuing the permit, the Building Official and' the
applicant may establish a maximum time schedule for
completion of logical phases of construction under the
permit. Such schedule shall take into consideration
historical data of the City for construction of similar
structures within the city. Failure of the permit holder
to pursue construction under the permit in accordance with
the maximum time schedule shall be prima facie evidence
that the project has not been commenced, or has been
suspended or abandoned. Such prima facie evidence shall
be in addition to any other evidence that construction
under the permit has not been commenced or has been
suspended or abandoned under the permit.
(b) Before work can be commenced or recommenced on any project,
for which the permit has become null and void, a new permit
shall be obtained. A null and void permit may be renewed,
for a prorated amount of the original fee, provided the pro-
posed work conforms with all the requirements, ordinances,
rules and regulations effective at the time of such renewal.
(c) In every case~ a courtesy notice should be given by the
Building OffiCial to the permit holder advising that said per-
mit is null and void. (Code 1958, § 24-7; Ord. No. 79-15,
§ 1, 5-16-79)
Sec. 21-12. Licensing, competency of contractors.
A person shall not engage in the business of erecting, painting,
wiring or maintaining signs within the city without first having pro-
cured an occupational license for such business. Such person shall
meet the occupational requirements set forth herein. Further, appli-
6
cants for such occupational license shall exhibit proof of a valid
Palm Beach County occupational license and certificate of competency
in the category applied for. The following qualifications shall
govern the categories of sign work.
(a) Sign contractor--Electrical. Those who are qualified and
licensed to install, repair, alter, add to, or change any
electrical wires, apparatus, raceways, conduit or any part
thereof on electrical signs and who are also qualified to
erect signs. Such contractor may connect to any existing sign
circuit and may contract for and secure permits for the erec-
tion of signs or sign structures.
(b) Sign contractor--Nonelectrical. Those who are qualified and
licensed to install, repair, add to, paint or change non-
electrical signs according to the building code, and~who may
secure permits for the erection of signs or sign structures.
(c) Owners, lessees. Notwithstanding either of the above classi-
fications, nothing herein contained in this section shall be
construed to prevent an owner or lessee of property from
constructing and erecting a non-illuminating sign or sign
structure not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area on
said property advertising the main use and one accessory use
of said premises. Such work shall be erected in a pro-
fessional manner, and further, shall comply with all other
sections of this chapter. (Code 1958, § 24-9; Ord. No. 79-15,
§ 1, 5-I6-79)
Sec. 21-13. Signs, sign structures prohibited.
From and after May 16, 1979, it shall be unlawful for any person
to erect, place or use within the city:
(a) Swinging projecting signs.
(b) Off premises signs, except those signs permitted under Section
21-15(c).
(c) "A" Frame Sign
(d) Sidewalk and sandwich signs.
(e) Signs which involve motion or rotation of any part of the
structure or display, except horizontal or substantially
horizontal rotation of three hundred sixty (360) degrees and
not exceeding eight (8) rpm. The rotation element of such
signs shall clear nine (9) feet from ground level (minimum).
Where vehicular traffic is affected, such clearance shall be
increased to fourteen and one-half (14½) feet. Signs con-
taining intermittent or flashing lights or animation with the
exception of a time and/or temperature unit which is part of a
sign permitted in business or industrial areas.
(f) It shall be unlawful to continuously park or drive any auto-
mobile or other vehicle with a vehicular sign, as defined in
Section 21-3 of the existing Boynton Beach Code, upon any
street, public or private parking lot, public way or place
within the City.
(g) All commercial advertising matter, including but not limited
to, circulars, throwaways, handbills, cards and vehicular
signs as defined in Section 21-3; provided however, this pro-
hibition shall not be construed to prevent the use, distri-
bution or dissemination of such matter on a regular weekly,
bi-weekly or monthly basis by a person or business duly
licensed or registered with the City under SectiOn 13-1 or
13-2 of this Code.
(h) Electrical signs of a co~ercial nature in R1, R1A, R1AA,
R1AAB, and RiAAA Districts except that in a subdivision develop-
ment, where models are being demonstrated, an illuminated sign,
meeting the other requirements of this chapter, may be used
provided no illumination is shown between~the hours of 9:00
p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the following day.
(b) One fixed projeCting Sign which advertises the use or
uses of the premises provided that the sign and its
supports shall not extend more than three (3) feet
beyond the wall, nor shall it extend above the parapet
of any building. The maximum area of such sign shall
not be more than eighteen (18) square feet each face
and in no case shall be closer than twenty-four (24)
inches of the curb line.
(3) For those signs whose faces are generally parallel to the
street centerline, one of the following is permitted, in
lieu of the above:
(a) A free standing sign as described in (2)(a) above.
(b) A fixed projecting sign as described in (2)(b) above.
(4) In addition to signs in Section 21-15(D)(2)(3), one or
more flat signs on one or more walls advertising the busi-
ness use shall be allowed provided that the area of all
such signage shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the
building face area of the wall which abutts the main
street.
(5) In addition to the other signs in this section, one on-
premises sign described as follows shall be permitted in
those commercial districts of the city where drive through
restaurants are permitted. Said sign shall be an exterior
single-faced menu sign with illustrated face not to exceed
twenty-five {25) square feet when a restaurant has a drive
through pick up window service. Such signs will allow for
instructions on use of this service and list the menu and
price of items to be served, with the top of the sign not
to exceed five {5) feet above ground level at the base of
the sign.
(6) Instead of other signs in this section one temporary sign,
maximum of 30 days, can be placed when a Certificate of
Occupancy is issued pending the approval of a sign appli-
cation if at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy an
application for a sign has been submitted to the Building
Department.
(7) Each use may also have window signs which shall not exceed
20% of the window being used.
(8) A directory sign consisting of signs each having an area
not exceeding eighteen {18} square feet per sign face.
If such directory sign is a flat sign, it should not
exceed ten {10) feet in height. If such directory sign
is a flat sign, it shall not exceed ten {10} feet in
height. If such directory sign is freestanding, it shall
not exceed six {6} feet in height. Freestanding directory
signs are permitted in addition to signs permitted and
regulated in Section 21-14{E){3}.
(9) Identification signs, not painted on the wall shall be
permitted on the rear wall of business establishments pro-
vided they are limited to four {4} square feet of sign
area and provided that the rear of the property is buffered
when contiguous to residential zoning districts
(E) COMMERCIAL (SHOPPING CENTERS) AND MALLS.
(1) Shopping centers shall be permitted a main use sign as set
forth in paragraph (3) below.
(2) One non-illuminated real estate sign advertising FOR SALE,
FOR RENT, or FOR LEASE, may be placed on the premises and
shall not exceed thirty-two {32} square feet in area.
(3) One freestanding sign advertising the use of the premi-
ses. Such sign shall be predicated on the basis of one
square foot of advertising area for each lineal foot of
main street frontage of the lot provided that no such sign
shall exceed one hundred sixty {160) square feet per sign
face with a maximum of two (2) faces. Lots which front on
more than one cOlleCtor and/or arterial roadways shall be
allowed one extra-freestanding sign that shall be no
higher than thirty (30) feet from the ground, nor protrude
into the street right-of-way.
(4) Where a building has more than two (2) sides perpendicular
to the main thoroughfare and which constitutes the front,
a sign or signs may be erected on these sides of the
building. Total aggregate area of all signs erected under
this subsection shall not exceed ten (10) percent of each
building front facing each main thoroughfare.
(5) In addition to signs in Section 21-14(E)(1) through (4),
a painted or flat sign shall be allowed on the front of
each individual occupancy not to exceed ten (10) percent
of the face area of each occupancy of that part of the
building and not to project above the roof line or the
corners of the building.
(6) Where a covered walkway is present, each store shall also
be permitted one sign not to exceed four (4) square feet.
Such signs shall be placed in front of each store, under
the covered walkway and shall have ninety inches clearance
above the walkway immediately below said sign. A permit
will not be required for such a sign if it is not an
electric sign.
(7) Instead of other signs in this section one temporary sign,
can be placed for a maximum of 30 days when a Certificate of
Occupancy is issued pending the approval of a sign appli-
cation if at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy an
application for a sign has been submitted to the Building
Department.
(8) A directory sign consisting of signs each having an area
of not more than one hundred eighty (180) square inches
and not exceeding eighteen (18) square feet per sign face.
If such directory sign is a flag sign, it should not
exceed ten (10) feet in height. If such directory sign is
freestanding, it shall not exceed six (6) feet in height
and all directory signs shall comply with district set-
back requirements. Freestanding directory signs are per-
mitted in addition to signs permitted and regulated in Sec
21-14(E)(3).
(9) Each use may also have window signs which shall not exceed
20% of the glass area. Window signs are perm'itted on
building fronts only and in no instance shall the area of
window signs exceed 20 square feet.
(10) Identification signs, not painted on the wall shall be per-
mitted on the rear wall of business establishments pro-
vided they are limited to four (4) square feet of sign
area and provided that the rear of the property is buf-
fered, when contiguous to residential zoning districts.
(F) INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS (M-l).
(1) One nonilluminated real estate sign advertising FOR SALE,
FOR RENT, or FOR LEASE, may be placed on the premises and
shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
(2) One freestanding sign not to exceed thirty two (32) square
feet in area advertising the main use of the
premises as permitted and regulated in Section 21-14(D)
(2)(a), unless otherwise approved on a site plan by the
Planning & Zoning Board, Community Appearance Board and
Mayor and City Commission.
(3) One flat sign as permitted and regulated in Section
21-14{D}{4). For lots which have uses that front on
Interstate 95, signage for these uses is permitted and
regulated in Section 21-14{F}{9) below.
10
1
(4) Instead of other signs in this section one temporary
sign, maximum of 30 days, can be placed when a
Certificate of Occupancy is issued pending the approval
of a sign application if at the time of the Certificate
of Occupancy an application for a sign has been submitted
to the Building Department.
(5) Identifcation signs, not painted on the wall shall be per-
mitted on the rear wall of business establishments pro-
vided they are limited to four (4) square feet of sign area
and provided that the rear of the property is buffered,
when contiguous to residential zoning districts.
(6) In addition to other signs permitted and regulatedqn this
section, one temporary sign, maximum of 30 days, can be
placed when a Certificate of Occupancy is issued pending
the approval of a sign application, if at the time of the
Certificate of Occupancy an application for a sign has
been submitted to the Building Department.
(7) Directory sign, as described in Section 21-t4(E)(8), set-
back at least fifteen (15) feet from the front property
line.
(8) On lots which front on more than one collector and/or
arterial roadway, excluding frontage on Interstate 95,
additional real estate, freestanding, and flat signs, not
to exceed the limitations imposed in Section 21-14(F)(1),
(2) and (3) above are permitted.
(9) Lots fronting on Interstate 95
(a) Lots which have uses which front on 1-95 may be per-
mitted additional flat sign(s) subject to the limita-
tions imposed in Section 21-14(D)(4) if the building
is designed to front on 1-95. For purposes of clari-
fication, fronting in this section means that the
building entrance faces 1-95 and no garage doors are
visible from the Interstate. Additionally, the area
between the use and the Interstate must be landscaped
as if it was fronting on a street.
(b) Real estate signs are subject to the limitations
imposed in Section F(1) above.
(G) CIVIC AND CHURCH SIGNS. The City Commission may erect or
approve and permit to be erected, entrance signs at or near the city
limits for the benefit of visitors, on which may list institutional
names, churches and points of interest. Civic organizations and
churches may be permitted to place their insignias thereon.
(H) CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT (CBD).
(1) Nonilluminated real estate sign advertising For Sale, For
Rent, or For Lease, may be placed on the premises and
shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area.
(2) Directional signs, which shall not exceed four (4) square
feet in area, nor exceed five (5) feet in height above
finished grade.
(3) Signs necessary for public safety or welfare.
(4) Business identification signs, which direct attention to a
use, business, profession, service, or entertainment,
conducted, sold or offered upon the same premises on which
it is displayed, in compliance with the following
limitations:
(a) Total sign face area permitted for each business use
shall be calculated as not to exceed one (1) square
foot for each one (1) linear foot of exterior building
front of such use, but in no case shall the total sign
face area of all signs for any individual use exceed
one hundred sixty (160) square feet.
11
(b) Signs (covered walkway signs) may be rigidly attached
to the underside of canopies, provided that such sign
does not exceed four (4) square feet in area, and
shall have at least ninety (90) inches clearance above
pedestrian walks.
(c) Signs attached to buildings shall not exceed thirty
(30) feet in height above finished grade.
(d) Signs attached to buildings shall not project more
than three (3) feet beyond the wall face, and shall
not project beyond a property line.
(e) Signs shall not be permitted on the roof,'or above the
building face.
(f) Signs may be illuminated by a steady light, provided
that such lighting does not illuminate adjacent pro-
perty. (Code 1958, § 24-11; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1,
5-15-79; Ord. No. 80-17, § 1, 5-6-80; Ord. No. 85-31,
§ 1, 4-16-85).
(5) Instead of other signs in this section one temporary
sign, can be placed for a maximum of 30 days, when a
Certificate of Occupancy is issued pending the approval
of a sign application if at the time of the Certificate
of Occupancy an application for a sign has been submitted
to the Building Department.
(I) AGRICULTURE DISTRICT (AG).
(1) Residential uses.
(a) For residences or residential lots, only a real estate
sign that is erected by the owner or his agent may be
permitted. Such real estate signs shall not exceed
three {3) square feet in area and must be kept in good
repair.
(2) Non residential uses.
(a) One nonilluminated real estate sign advertising FOR
SALE, FOR RENT, or FOR LEASE, may be placed on the
premises and shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square
feet in area.
(b) In addition to (a) above, one of the following cate-
gories of signs or sign structures is permitted as
outlined under a different size and set back as
specifically approved by the Planning & Zoning Board,
Community Appearance Board and Mayor and City
Commission at time of site plan approval.
(1) One double-faced freestanding sign identifying the
premises not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet
in area per sign face. Such signs shall not exceed
a height of seven (7) feet and shall be set back
ten (10) feet from any property line.
(2) Two (2) flat signs advertising the use or uses of
the premises provided that the sign area, singly
or via combination, shall not exceed ten {10} per-
cent of the building face area of the wall on
which the sign is erected. A maximum of one sign
shall be allowed per building.
(3) In agricultural districts on corner lots and/or
double frontage lots, each frontage shall be
regarded as a separate frontage for the purpose
of permitting additional signs. Such additional
signs shall not exceed Section 21-14 {I) regula-
tions.
12
(J) EXTERIOR MALL SIGNS
Exterior building wall signs are permitted on each exterior
wall face of every major department store and other center
section stores with exterior customer entrances. These signs
must not exceed ten percent (10%) of the exterior walt face
upon which they are attached and are limited to a maximum of
two hundred {200) square feet per wall face. Each permitted
entrance from the public right-of-way into the site will be
allowed up to a three (3) face sign, with each sign face not
to exceed thirty (30) square feet. One major sign, in
compliance with Section 21-14(E)(3), will be permitted in lieu
.of multiple entrance signs.
(K) RECREATION DISTRICT (REC).
(1) One nonilluminated real estate sign advertising FOR SALE,
FOR RENT, or FOR LEASE may be placed on the premises and
shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area.
(2) One freestanding sign identifying the premises, located at
least ten (10) feet from the right-of-way, not to exceed
thirty-two (32) square feet in area per face. Such signs
shall not exceed a height of seven (7) feet.
(3) Two flat signs identifying the occupancy, singly or via a
combination, shall not exceed twenty-five (25) square
feet. A maximum of one sign shall be allowed per building.
(4) In recreational districts on lots which front on more than
one collector and/or arterial roadway, each frontage shall
be regarded as a separate frontage for the purpose of per-
mitting additional signs. Such additional signs shall not
exceed Section 21-14(K) regulations.
(L) PUBLIC USAGE (PU)
Signs in this zoning district are permitted and regulated in a
manner similar to signs in Section 21-14(D).
(M) PLANNED DISTRICTS (P.U.D., P.C.D., and P.I.D.)
(1) Purpose and intent. The purpose of these regulations is
to set forth general guidelines for sign size, height,
location and setbacks and to establish continuity for signs
in the planned districts with other signs in the City.
These guidelines allow for flexibility with respect to
type, color, number, location (exclusive of setbacks) and
design of signs. The approval of signs in planned
districts requires submission of a sign program for the
entire project which conforms to limitations set forth
above. Prior to issuance of permits, the sign program
will be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board and
Community Appearance Board and approved by the City
Commission.
(2) Sign Program. All requests for approval of a sign program
shall be filed with the Planning Department as a part of the
original site plan approval or as a modification to the
approved site plan upon forms furnished by the Planning
Department. All applications shall be fileQ by the prospec-
tive sign owner or his agent, with the approporiate fee and
shall describe and set forth the following:
(a) The type and number of signs or sign structures.
(b) The square foot area per sign and dimensions of
structures.
(c) Six sealed copies of the site plan showing sign
location, sign elevations, and construction details
such as materials, colors, winds resistance require-
ments, and structural details. (See Section 21-6(g)
above)
13
(d) In addition to the above, one set of colored sign
elevations shall be filed including color chips,
materials samples and lettering samples.
(3) Planned Unit Development (P.U.D.)
Planned Unit Development signs may include, but shall not
be limited to the following types of signs, subject to
approval. The following guidelines or more restrictive
may be imposed for setbacks, size and height of signs,
depending upon the specific conditions within the Planned
Unit Development.
(a) Residential Uses.
(1) Real estate signs maximum of three (3) square feet
in area, permits not required.
(2) Name plate signs Not exceeding three (3) square
feet in area, permits not required.
(3) Entrance wall signs - Such signs shall be located
outside of the public right-of-way, may be illumi-
nated if approved by the City Commission, and
shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet. The
entrance wall structure shall be located so as not
to pose a traffic safety hazard.
(b) Nonresidential Uses.
(1) Freestanding signs Such signs shall not exceed a
maximum of ten (10) feet in height, forty (40)
square feet in sign area, and setback ten (10)
feet from any property line.
(2) Flat signs not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet
in sign area per tenant/occupancy.
(~) Both residential and nonresidential uses.
(1) Directional signs - such signs may be limited to
twelve (12) square feet per sign and shall not be more
than four (4) feet above grade of right-of-way. Said
signs may be located within the City right-of-way.
(4) Planned Commercial Districts (P.C.D.)
Planned Commercial District signs may include, but shall
not be limited to the following types of signs, subject to
approval. The following, or more restrictive size, height
and setback guidelines may be imposed, depending upon the
specific conditions within the Planned Commercial
District.
(a) Real Estate signs - Maximum of thirty two (32) square
feet in area.
(b) Freestanding signs - one such sign, identifying the
Planned Commercial District, located no closer than
ten (10) feet from any property line, may be illumi-
nated if approved by the City Commission, not
exceeding 80 square feet per sign face, and no higher
than thirty (30) feet from the g~ound. Additional
freestanding signs, not exceeding these criteria, may
be approved for individual land users predicated upon
factors particular to the Planned Commercial District
or the site.
(c) Flat signs - Such signs not exceeding ten (10) percent
of the building face area and in no case exceeding
sixty-four (64) square feet in area per tenant/
occupancy.
(d) Covered walkway signs - Such signs shall not exceed
four (4) square feet and shall have ninety (90) inches
clearance above the walkway immediately below said
sign.
14
(e) Window signs Such signs shall not exceed 20% of the
glass area being used.
(f) Directory sign - A directory shall consist of a sign
having a total sign area of not more than eighteen
(18) square feet per face.
(g) Directional signs - Such signs may be limited to twelve
(12) square feet per sign and shall not be more than
four (4) feet above grade of right-of-way. Said signs
may be located within the City right-of-way.
(h) Identification signs - Such signs shall not exceed four
(4) square feet in sign area and shall be located on
the rear wall of business establishments.
(5) Planned Industrial Districts (P.I.D.)
Planned Industrial District Signs may include, but shall
not be limited to, the following types of signs, subject
to approval. The following or more restrictive size,
height, and setback guidelines may be imposed.
(a) Real estate signs - Maximum of thirty two (32) square
feet in area.
(b) Freestanding signs - One such sign shall be located no
closer than ten (10) feet from any property line, may
be illuminated if approved by the City Commission,
shall not exceed eighty (80) square feet per sign
face, and shall be no higher than thirty (30) feet
from the ground. Additional freestanding signs, not
exceeding these criteria, may be approved for indivi-
dual land users predicated upon factors particular
to the Planned Industrial District or the site.
(c) Flat signs - Such signs not exceeding 10% of the face
area of each occupancy of that part of the building.
(d) Covered Walkway signs - same guidelines as in a Planned
Commercial Development.
(e) Identification signs - same guidelines as in a Planned
Commercial District. ~
(f) Directory signs - same guidelines as in a Planned
Commercial District.
(g) Directional signs same guidelines as in a Planned
Commercial District.
Sec. 21-15. Special signs.
(a) (Subdivision Signs) - Temporary Project Development Signs
Areas under development, including shopping centers, housing
developments, apartments, condominiums, and commercial or
industrial projects on extensive platted or unplatted land
shall be permitted two (2) signs not to exceed a combined
aggregate area of two hundred fifty (250) square feet. Said
signs shall be located in accordance with the requirements
contained in the section of this chapter, relating to the
specific zoned area. Permits for said signs will be granted in
accordance with Section 21-6 and shall be limited to the time
the development is completed, terminated, or abandoned. The
permits for such signs will not be issued prior to the date
upon which an application for a permit for the related
building construction or site development is filed. These
signs must be removed within sixty (60) days after the permit
is issued if construction has not commenced, or if such
construction is substantially abandoned for ninety (90) days,
as evidenced by a lack of inspections and/or other pertinent
conditions. (Reason: Clarification on when permits should be
issued and when signs should be removed).
15
(b) Construction signs. One nonilluminated building sign may be
permitted to be erected on the premises or attached to a tool
house on the premises subject to the following conditions:
(1) Such signs shall not exceed thirty two (32) square feet
per sign.
(2) Such sign or signs shall not be erected prior to the
issuance of a building permit and must be removedwhen
building or project is completed; provided, however, if
such sign is erected as permitted hereunder and construc-
tion is not commenced 'within one hundred eighty (180) days
after permit is issued, or if such construction is
substantially abandoned for one hundred eighty (180) days
as evidenced by a lack of inspectiOns and/or other per-
tinent conditions such sign shall be immediately removed,
upon notification, by the owner or lessee of the premises.
(3) Said signs shall be located on the premises being devel-
oped and shall be located in accordance with the require-
ments contained in the section of this code relating to
the specific zone areas.
(c) Directional signs.
(1) General directional signs limited to six (6) per civic
organization, church, recreational facility, and limited
to one hundred forty-four (144) square inches per sign and
located at street intersections or Other locations for the
convenience of the traveling public, may be permitted in
city right-of-way when approved by the City Manager and
building department. The owner shall have the sign made
at the owner's expense but according to the specifications
of the city. Said signs shall be placed by the respon-
sible governmental body at the expense of the owner and
when sign is in public right-of-way it Shall be placed on
opposite corners from street signs. A limit of six (6)
signs on one (1) pole shall be permitted at each street
intersection.
(2) Special event, recreational or exposition directional
signs of a temporary nature, which are of general benefit
to the community and which are individually approved by
the City Commission, may be permitted. Said signs shall
be located at specified points for the convenience of the
traveling public.
(3) Parking area signs may be erected at each point of ingress
and egress to a parking lot or parking area, and such
signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area nor
extend to a greater height than five (5) feet above the
ground, and shall be erected within the parking area.
Only one such sign shall be allowed at each point of
ingress and egress, provided such signs do not create a
traffic or pedestrian hazard.
(4) Street signs. A subdivision name sign may be placed on a
city street post by city personnel provided it is
requested through the public works department and paid for
by the party requesting said sign. This sign shall be
identical to the street sign as to color, size and shape.
(§) Directional signs (snipe sign) of a temporary nature may
be erected to guide traffic to building models at inter-
sections in the public right-of-way, not to exceed three
(3) square feet each face, nor more than three (3) feet
above grade of right-of-way. Said sign shall be approved
by building official or his designated agent. Not more
than six (6) such signs will be allowed for any one deve-
lopment. These signs shall be placed at the building
department's discretion and in all cases shall be placed
as close as possible to the development from the main
thoroughfare.
(6) A residential subdivision or residential development of
twenty-five {25) units or more, not fronting on a major or
16
i
Sec. 21-18. Rigid construction required.
Every sign shall be constructed in such a manner as to withstand a
wind pressure of fifty {50} pounds per square foot. Sign contractors
or the owner(s) shall submit plans showing location, structural mem-
bers and design calculations for wind loading and for signs over forty
{40) square feet, a certificate sealed by a Florida registered
engineer or architect stating that the design will meet the require-
ments of this Code shall be submitted. All sign contractors shall sign
a certificate stating wind loading will meet requirements of this
chapter where signs under forty {40} square feet are submitted. {Code
1958, § 24-15; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, 5-16-79)
Sec. 21-19. Reinspection of all signs.
The building official shall inspect, or cause to be inspected, all
signs located within the city as needed for compliance if in his
opinion such inspection may be required, and upon such inspection,
shall require the owner 34 of any sign found to be defective,
neglected or in unkept condition, or which does not comply with the
terms, conditions, and provisions of this chapter, to be repaired or
removed within thirty {30} days from the date of written notice of
such defects; provided, however, that if said building official shall
ascertain and determine that the maintenance or use of such sign shall
adversely affect the public safety, he may require the immediate remo-
Val at owner's expense or prohibit the use of said sign until such
defects shall have been remedied. {Code 1958, § 24-16; Ord. No.
79-15, § 1, 5-16-79)
Sec. 21-20. Misleading advertising.
It shall be unlawful for a person to display false or misleading
statements upon signs, or other public places, calculated to mislead
the public as to anything sold, any services to be performed, or
information disseminated. The fact that any such sign or display
shall contain words or language sufficient to mislead a reasonable and
prudent person in reading same, shall be prima facie evidence of a
violation of this section by the person displaying such sign, per-
mitting same to be displayed, or permitting such display at their
residence, establishment or place of business. {Code 1958, § 24-17;
Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, 5-16-79)
Sec. 21-21. Obsolete signs to be removed.
When a business or service using any sign or signs is discon-
tinued, all signs and sign structures relating to this business or
services shall be removed or electricity turned off within thirty {30}
days from the date of discontinuance and, if not removed, site will be
subject to Code Enforcement action. {Code 1958, § 24-17; Ord. No.
79-15, § 1, 5-16-79}
Sec. 21-22. Nonconforming signs.
(a) A sign or advertising structure existing within the city
limits on the date of the adoption of this Ordinance, or a
sign or advertising structure existing in an area annexed to
the City after the date of the adoption of this Ordinance,
which, by its height, square foot area, location, use or
structural support does not conform to the requirements of
this chapter, shall hereafter be termed nonconforming. Such
must be removed within three {3) years.
(b) All "off-premises" signs are hereby made nonconforming and
shall be removed after the date of the adoption of this ordi-
nance, except those'designated in this chapter.
{c) All signs which do not meat fifty {50} pounds per square foot
wind loading are hereby declared dangerous non-conforming
signs and shall be removed or made to conform to the require-
ments of this chapter within thirty {30} days after notifica-
tion by the building department.
(d) Should such owner or lessee refuse to remove or make such sign
or signs conforming, the city shall have them removed and
expenses incurred shall be billed to the property in the form
of a tax lien.
18
Sec. 21-23. Hazardous signs and materials.
(al No sign shall be constructed or erected in such a manner that
it will become a hazard to a~tomotive or pedestrian traffic
nor shall any sign or lighting of such sign be so placed as to
obstruct the vision of the driver of any motor vehicle where
such vision is necessary for safety.
(b) No sign shall be placed, constructed or erected in such a
manner as to obstruct or block any exit from any building nor
shall any sign be so placed as to interfere with light or vent-
ilation to any building or structure.
(c) Where any wood or any sign penetrates the ground or is
attached in any way to masonry or concrete, said wood shall be
of an approved pressure-treated type.
(d) All materials used in constructing signs shall be of a type to
resist weather exposure.
(el Any plastic materials used in signs shall be approved by the
Underwriters Laboratory and shall bear its label. Electrical
components shall be in accordance with the city's electrical
code and U.L. approved. (Code 1958, § 24-19; Ord. No. 79-15,
§ 1, 55-16-79)
Sec. 21-24. Procedure on violations.
(al If the building official shall find that any of the provisions
of this chapter are being violated, he shall give written
notice to the owner of record of the property where such
violation occurs to have such sign or signs made to conform or
be removed within thirty {30) days from receipt of this
notice. In the event that such signs are not removed or made
to comply, after notification, the city may cause such removal
to be made and charge all expenses to the property owner.
Should said property owner still fail to pay expenses incurred
by the city, such expenses shall then be applied to the pro-
perty in the form of a tax lien.
(b) In the case of extremely hazardous signs, the building depart-
ment shall have authority to immediately remove or cause to be
removed such signs without the thirty {30} day notification
normally required. {Code 1958, § 24-20; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1,
5-16-79)
Sec. 21-25. Temporary political signs, advertising.
Temporary political signs may be posted on private property within
the city during the sixty (60) day period preceeding any local, state,
or national election with the consent of the property owner.
Candidates or parties desiring to post such signs shall file with the
city clerk, a notice of intention to post same prior to the posting of
any such sign and shall agree to remove any such signs so posted
within ten (10) days after the date of the election. No fee shall be
required in connection with the posting of temporary political signs.
Political circulars and handbills may be distributed within the city
during the above sixty (60) day period. (Code 1958, § 24-23; Ord. No.
79-15, § 1, 5-16-79)
SEC. 21-26. Variances from requirements.
(al Recognizing that the strict application of the requirements of
this chapter may work an undue hardship on certain applicants,
variances from the strict application of the provisions of
this chapter, except with respect to necessary approval by the
Building Official, may be granted by the City Commission;
however, no variance shall be granted by the City Commission
which has the effect of permitting a sign or sign structure
expressly prohibited by Section 21-14.
(b) Each application for a variance under this section shall be in
writing and shall state the reasons for the request for a
variance. The application shall be signed by the applicant
and the sign company, if any, responsible for the sign for
19
which the variance is being sought. The application shall be
accompanied by a filing fee as set forth in Section 5-4.
(3) Each application for a variance of the provisions of this
chapter shall first be reviewed by the Building Official, who
shall review the application and make a recommendation to the
City Manager. The City Manager should review the Building
Official's report and recommendations and forward the City
Manager's recommendation regarding disposition of the applica-
tion to the City Commission.
(4) Within 30 days of the receipt of the recommendation of the
City. Manager the City Commission shall consider the applica-
tion for the variance. The City Commission may grant the
variance, with conditions, or deny the application. Any
applicant aggrieved by a decision of the City Commission may
appeal as provided by the Florida Rules of Appellate
Procedure.
Sec. 21-24. Hazardous signs and materials.
(a) No sign shall be constructed or erected in such a manner that
it will become a hazard to automotive or pedestrian traffic
nor shall any sign or lighting of such sign be so placed as to
obstruct the vision of the driver of any motor vehicle where
such vision is necessary for safety.
(b) No sign shall be placed, constructed or erected in such a
manner as to obstruct or block any exit from any building nor
shall any sign be so placed as to interfere with light or ven-
tilation to any building or structure.
(c) Where any wood or any sign penetrates the ground or is
attached in any way to masonry or concrete, said wood shall be
of an approved pressure-treated type.
(d) All materials used in coRstructing signs shall be of a type to
resist weather exposure.
(e) Any plastic materials used in signs shall be approved by the
Underwriters Laboratory and shall bear its label. Electrical
components shall be in accordance with the city's electrical
code and U.L. approved. (Code 1958, § 24-19; Ord. No. 79-15
§ 1, 55-16-79) '
Sec. 21-25. Procedure on violations.
(a) If the building official shall find that any of the provisions
of this chapter are being violated, he shall give written
notice to the owner of record of the property where such
violation occurs to have such sign or signs made to conform or
be removed within thirty (30) days from receipt of this
notice. In the event that such signs are not removed or made
to comply, after notification, the city may cause such removal
to be made and charge all expenses to the property owner.
Should said property owner still fail to pay expenses incurred
by the city, such expenses shall then be applied to the pro-
perty in the form of a tax lien.
(b) In the case of extremely hazardous signs, the building depart-
ment shall have authority to immediately remove or cause to be
removed such signs without the thirty (30) day notification
normally required. (Code 1958, § 24-20; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1
5-16-79) '
Sec. 21-26. Temporary political signs, advertising.
Temporary political signs may be posted on private property within
the city during the sixty (60) day period preceeding any local, state,
or national election with the consent of the property owner.
Candidates or parties desiring to post such signs shall file with the
city clerk, a notice of intention to post same prior to the posting of
any such sign and shall agree to remove any such signs so posted
within ten (10) days after the date of the election. No fee shall be
required in connection with the posting of temporary political signs.
2O
Political circulars and handbills may be distributed within the city
during the above sixty (60) day period. (Code 1958, § 24-22; Ord. No.
79-15, § 1, 5-16-79)
SEC. 21-27. Variances from requirements.
(1) Recognizing that the strict application of the requirements of
this chapter may work an undue hardship on certain applicants, varian-
ces from the strict application of the provisions of this chapter,
except with respect to necessary approval by the Building Official,
may be granted by the City Commission; however, no variance shall be
granted by the City Commission which has the effect of permitting a
sign or sign structure expressly prohibited by Section 21-14.
(2) Each application for a variance under this section shall be in
writing and shall state the reasons for the request fora variance,
The application shall be signed by the applicant and the sign company,
if any, responsible for the sign for which the variance is being
sought. The application shall be accompanied by a filing fee as set
forth in Section 5-4.
(3) Each application for a variance of the provisions of this
chapter shall f.irst be reviewed by the Building Official, who shall
review the application and make a recommendation to the City Manager.
The City Manager should review the Building Official's report and
recommendations and forward the City Manager's recommendation
regarding disposition of the application to the City Commission.
(4) Within 30 days of the receipt of the recommendation of the
City Manager the City Commission shall consider the application for
the variance. The City Commission may grant the variance, with con-
ditions, or deny the application. Any applicant aggrieved by a deci-
sion of the City Commission may appeal as provided by the Florida
Rules of Appellate Procedure.
21
minor arterial street as defined in Appendix C of the Code
of Ordinances, may be per~itted one sign, with a maximum
of two (2) faces and thirty-two (32) square feet per sign
face in the public right-of-way. The sign shall be
located at the intersection of the major or minor arterial
street and the collector street or local street which ser-
ves the residential subdivision or residential develop-
ment. Special signs shall be approved by the city council
after a recommendation by the planning and zoning board,
the technical review board and the community appearance
board. Upon approval by the City Commission, the City
and the representatives of the residential subdivision or
residential development shall enter into a license
agreement setting forth the terms and conditions upon
which approval to place the sign on the public right-of-
way is granted. Approval by the City does not preclude
the necessity to secure approvals from other governmental
agencies as required.
(d) Directory sign. A directory consisting of signs each having
an area of one hundred eighty (180) square inches per sign may
be attached to a free-standing sign; said directory signs must
indicate the organization or business endeavor in the par-
ticular commercial or industrial district.
(e) Painted window sign. Each main use and each accessory use in
commercial or industrial zoning district except for shopping
centers may also have one painted sign on windows provided it
does not exceed thirty-five (35) percent of the glass area
being used and is in accordance with this chapter.
(f) Entrance sign. A sign placed on the face of an entrance wall
to a subdivision designating said subdivision. Said sign and
wall must be approved by the planning and zoning board and
city council.
(g) Safety and warning signs. Any sign may be erected which is
ordered or authorized by a government body. "No trespassing",
"no dumping", and similar signs may be erected when approved
by the building department and shall not exceed to a height of
more than five (5) feet from the ground and such sign shall
not exceed one hundred forty-four (144) square inches. (Code
1958, § 24-12; Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, 5-16-79; Ord. No. 83-27,
51, 9-20-83)
(h) One American Flag per lot, building or use can be displayed
along with one other national, state, municipal and church
flag if they meet required regulations promulagated by
appropriate agencies. Additional flags can be displayed on a
site if such locations are located under approved site plans.
(i) Banners. Will be allowed only for special occasions and only
with City Commission approval.
(j) Painted wall signs, except wall signs not exceeding square
footage that would be allowed on site if not a wall sign.
(k) Roof top signs as defined.
(1) One customary plaque is allowed per occupancy, not to exceed
two (2) square feet affixed to the building at, on or near the
front entrance.
Sec. 21-16. Reserved,
Editor's Note--Ord. No. 82-22, § 2, enacted July 20, 1982,
repealed Section 21-16, prohibiting the distribution of circulars,
throwaways and handbills. Said section was derived from Code 1958,
24-13, and Ord. No. 79-15, § 1, adopted May 16, 1979.
Sec. 21-17. Minimum clearance height.
A sign projecting over areas where vehicular traffic may be
required to pass through or beneath shall be erected to maintain a
minimum clearance distance of fourteen and one-half {14~) feet for the
free passage of such vehicles. {Code 1958, § 24-14- Ord. No. 79-15
51, 5-16-79) ' ,
17