O00-78ORDINANCE NO. O 00- 7'$
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
AMENDING CHAPTER 21, SIGNS, OF THE LAND
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS OF THE CODE OF
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR CLARIFICATION
OF PURPOSE; AUTHORIZING NON-COMMERCIAL
COPY ON ANY SIGN; DELETING BULLETIN
BOARDS, OCCUPATIONAL SIGNS, MEMORIAL
SIGNS, TRAFFIC SIGNS, VEHICULAR SIGNS,
DANGER SIGNS, AND COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING
MATTER FROM THE CATEGORY OF EXEMPTIONS;
CLARIFYING LIMITATIONS ON OBSCENE OR
MISLEADING ADVERTISING; CLARIFYING
RESTRICTIONS ON DIRECTIONAL SIGNS;
ELIMINATING CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON
TEMPORARY POLITICAL SIGNS; DELETING
LIMITATIONS ON DISPLAY SPACE ON BUS
SHELTERS; CLARIFYING THE APPROVAL PROCESS
FOR TEMPORARY BANNERS; CLARIFYING
RESTRICTIONS ON REAL ESTATE SIGNS;
CLARIFYING RESTRICTIONS ON SIGNS IN
INDUSTRIAL ZONING DISTRICTS; CLARIFYING
RESTRICTIONS ON SIGNS IN CENTRAL BUSINESS
DISTRICT; CLARIFYING RESTRICTIONS ON SIGNS
IN PLANNED DISTRICTS; PROVIDING FOR
CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION, AND
PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City administration has been in the process of a review of the
provisions of the City's Sign Code and has made recommendations based upon
administrative considerations, emerging trends, aesthetic concerns, and emerging legal
guidelines; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has determined that it is in the best interest of the
community to amend provisions of the Sign Code to facilitate enforcement, administration,
and to comply with emerging legal guidelines; and
WHEREAS, the amendments hereinafter set forth will facilitate the administration of
the City's regulation of signs in a manner which balances aesthetic concerns, commercial
needs, and existing property rights.
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NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA:
Section 1. The foregoing "WHEREAS" clauses are true and correct and hereby
ratified and confu'med by the City Commission.
Section 2. Chapter 21, Signs, of the Land Development Regulations, Part III of
the Code of Ordinances is amended as follows:
CHAPTER 21
SIGNS
Article I.
Article II.
Article III.
Article IV.
In General
Variances/Exemptions and Prohibitions
Special Conditions
Signs Allowed
ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL
Section 1. Short title.
This chapter shall hereafter be known and cited as "The Boynton Beach Sign
Ordinance."
Section 2. Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to create the framework for a comprehensive and
balanced system of sign control. It recognizes the need for a well maintained and attractive
appearance in a community and the need for adequate commercial and non-commercial site
busLness identification, advertising and communication. It is the intent of this chapter to
promote the health, safety, convenience, aesthetics and general welfare by controlling signs
which are intended to communicate to the public and to authorize the use of signs which are:
A. Compatible with their surroundings.
Bo
Designed, constructed, installed and maintained in such a manner that they do
not endanger public safety nor contribute to vehicular visual distraction.
C. Efficient in transfer of information.
D. Aesthetically pleasing, and do not cause a visual distraction to pedestrians.
E. A safeguard and an enhancement to property values within the community.
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F. Designed to preserve the beauty and unique character of the city.
Any sign containing noncommercial copy shall be deemed an on-premises sign, and
any sign authorized in this chapter is allowed to contain noncommercial copy in lieu
of any other copy.
Section 3. Penalties; enforcement.
Any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be deemed guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be subject to a fine not exceeding five
hundred ($500) dollars. Each day such violation is committed or permitted to continue shall
constitute a separate offense and shall be punishable as such hereunder.
Enforcement of this chapter may also be secured through the Code Enforcement
hearing process under Chapter 2, Article V of the Boynton Beach Code of Ordinances.
Section 4. Permitting.
Except as provided in Article II, Section 2 it shall be unlawful for any person to erect,
repair, alter, or relocate within the city any sign or other advertising structure as defined in
this chapter, without first obtaining a permit from the Boynton Beach Development
Department and making payment of the fee required. All illuminated signs shall, in addition,
be subject to the provisions of the National Electrical Code.
Signs or sign structures previously erected without a valid permit shall be in violation
of this chapter and shall be deemed illegal signs. It shall be mandatory to obtain a permit for
an illegal sign, or to immediately remove such sign or sign structure upon notice that the sign
or sign structure is illegal. The notice shall contain a time period for removal.
Section 5. Application.
Application for permits shall be made upon blanks provided by the development
department and shall contain or have attached thereto the following information:
A. Name, address and telephone number of the applicant;
B. Location of building, structure or lot to which, or upon which, the sign or
other advertising structure is to be attached or erected;
C. Position of the sign or other advertising structure in relation to nearby
building, structures and property lines;
D. Two (2) copies of the plans and specifications and method of construction and
attachment to the building or in the ground. Plans must include all proposed sign colors.
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E. Documents showing that the structure is designed for dead load and wind load
in any direction in an amount consistent with the requirements contained in the Standard
Building Code and as required by this and all other laws and ordinances of the city. The seal
of a Florida registered engineer or architect shall be affixed to drawings of signs or sign
structures which have an area exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet and/or exceeding ten (10)
feet in height, certifying that such signs are designed to meet the required loading. In cases
when required by the director of development, signs shall show calculations for wind
loading.
F. Name of person, firm, corporation or association erecting the sign structure;
G. Written consent of the owner of the building, structure or land to which or on
which the structure is to be erected;
H. The type of sign or sign structure as defined by this chapter;
I. The estimated value of the sign and/or sign structure;
J. All electrical details required to determine code compliance for the sign; and
K. All such other information as the development department shall require to
demonstrate compliance with this and all other laws and ordinances of the city.
Section 6. Permit issuance.
The development department shall examine plans and specifications and other data
and the premises upon which it is proposed to erect the sign or other advertising structure,
and if it appears that the structure is in compliance with all the requirements of this chapter
and all other laws and ordinances of the city, the department shall issue a sign permit. All
permits are subject to the requirements contained in the latest adopted Countywide
Administrative section of the Standard Building Code.
Section 7. Permit fee.
Every applicant, before being granted a permit hereunder, shall pay a fee to the
development department prior to permit review or issuance.
Any sign erected or in the process of being erected without a permit is subject to a
total permit fee of four (4) times the normal permit fee.
Section 8. Annual inspection.
The city may inspect at any time each sign or other advertising structure regulated by
this chapter for the purpose of ascertaining whether the same is unsafe, in need of repair or
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maintenance, not in conformance with the permit application or otherwise in violation of the
provisions of this chapter.
Section 9. Revocation of permit.
The development department is authorized and empowered to revoke any permit
issued if there has been a violation of the provisions of this chapter or a misrepresentation of
fact on the permit application and specified in the latest adopted Countywide Administrative
Section of the Standard Building Code.
Section 10. Unsafe and unlawful signs.
If it is determined that any sign or other advertising structure regulated herein is
unsafe or insecure, or is a menace to the public, or has been constructed or erected or is being
maintained in violation of the provisions of this ordinance, he shall give written notice to the
owner thereof. If the owner fails to remove or alter the structure so as to comply with the
standards herein set forth within the time prescribed in the notice, such sign or other
advertising structure may be removed or altered to comply by the city at the expense of the
permittee or owner of the property upon which it is located. The development department
shall not issue a permit to any permittee or owner who refuses to pay costs so assessed. The
director of development may cause any sign or other advertising structure which presents an
immediate peril to persons or property to be removed without notice.
Section 11. Permit number posting.
Every sign or other advertising structure hereafter erected shall have placed in a
conspicuous place thereon, the permit number of the sign.
Section 12. Maintenance.
The owner of any sign as defined and regulated by this chapter shall be required to
properly maintain said sign. For a sign to be properly maintained, the sign, together with its
framework, braces, angles or other supports shall be in a safe condition, properly secured,
supported and braced and shall be able to withstand weather conditions and loads as required
by the regulatory codes in effect within the municipal limits. Maintenance shall include
painting and parts replacement.
Section 13. 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 procured an occupational license for such business
from both the city and the county. The following qualifications shall govern the categories of
sign work:
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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 and secure permits for the erection of
electrical signs or sign structures.
B. Sign contractor, non-electrical. Those who are qualified and licensed to
install, repair, add to, paint or change non-electrical signs, according to the Standard Building
Code and who may secure permits for the erection of electrical signs or sign structures (but
must sublet the electrical work unless an electrical contractor is associated with the firm).
C. Owners, lessees. Notwithstanding either of the above classifications, 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 and/or six (6) feet in height, on said property. Such work shall
be erected in a professional manner and shall comply with all other sections of this chapter.
Section 14. Wind pressure and dead load requirements.
All signs and other advertising structures shall be designed and constructed to
withstand wind and dead loads as required by the Standard Building Code or other
ordinances of the city.
Section 15. Removal of abandoned signs.
Any sign now or hereafter existing which no longer advertises a bona fide business
conducted or a product sold shall be taken down and removed by the owner, agent or person
having the beneficial use of the building or structure upon which such sign may be found,
within ten (10) days after the business use ceases.
ARTICLE II. VARIANCES/EXEMPTIONS AND PROHIBITIONS
Section 1. Variances.
After denial of a sign permit by the development department, a request for variance
may be filed with the board of zoning appeals. The board of zoning appeals may grant a
variance if it finds that the unusual shape or topography of the property in question prevents
signage allowable under the provisions of this ordinance from adequately identifying the
business or other activity located on such property. The board of zoning appeals may only
grant a variance to:
A. Allow a setback less than that required under the chapter;
B. Allow the area and/or height of a sign to be increased by up to twenty-five
(25) percent of the maximum allowable height or area; or
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code.
Allow the number of signs to be increased over the maximum allowed by this
No variances may be granted to signs expressly prohibited by this chapter.
(Ord. No. 96-61, § 1, 1-21-97)
Section 2. Exemptions.
The permit requirements of this chapter shall not apply to the following signs,
provided however, that said signs shall be subject to other provisions of this code:
A. Real estate signs not exceeding five (5) square feet in area which advertise the
sale, rental or lease of the premises upon which such signs are located. These signs must be
set back ten (10) feet from the property line, meet the structural requirements and must not
exceed four (4) feet in height. Only one (1) such sign is allowed per street frontage.
B. A single residential yard sign, not exceeding three (3) square feet in area
C. Window/door signs using less than twenty (20) percent of the total glass area
facing in any one direction. This area is not included in the total sign area allowed under this
chapter. These signs are not permitted in residential zoning districts.
Chapter.
Political signs. These signs must comply with Article IH, SectiOn 6.D of this
E. Flags.
J. Signs indicating the address and/or name of the residential occupants of the
premises, not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
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L.
Section 3.
Bus shelter signs.
Prohibitions.
this chapter.
B.
C.
D.
The following signs and related equipment are prohibited in all districts:
Any sign and/or sign structure which does not meet all the criteria set forth in
Animated/fluttering signs
Balloons
Banners (not including
temporary business identification signs)
special civic event, recreational, expositional or
E. Bus bench signs
F. Festoons
G. Flashing signs
H. Roof signs
I. Rotating signs
J. Signs that swing
K. Sidewalk signs (sandwich/"A" frame)
I. Portable signs
M. Signs that obstruct free ingress to or egress from a door, window, fire escape
or other required exit or entrance.
O. Snipe signs or signs attached to or painted on fire escapes, television antennas,
satellite dishes, utility poles or any other associated structure.
P. Signs which emit odors, sounds, smoke, vapor or other visible matter.
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Q. Signs or sign structures supported by visible guy wires, cables or where there
is visible electrical conduit.
R. Unauthorized signs on property owned by or under control of the City of
Boynton Beach.
S. Banners over any street, sidewalk, within a city park or playground without a
permit being issued.
T. Off premises signs, except those permitted under Chapter 21, Article III,
Section 6 (Special Signs) or Chapter 22, Article II, Section 7, Paragraph O (Neighborhood
Identification Signs).
U. Electrical or illuminated signs of a commercial n~'m-e in residential zoning
districts, except that in a development 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.
W. Billboards.
X. Non-geometric signs shaped to depict figures or demonstrative shapes used to
attract attention to the business activity with which the sign is associated.
Y. Painted Wall Signs.
(Ord. No. 96-61, § 2, 1-21-97; Am. Ord. 98-03, § 1, 1-20-98)
ARTICLE III. SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Section 1. Traffic hazards.
No sign or other advertising structure regulated by this chapter shall be erected at the
intersection of any streets in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision; or at any
location where, by reason of the position, shape or color, it may interfere with, obstruct the
view of or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device.
Section 2. Obscene matter/misleading advertising.
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It shall be unlawful for any person to display upon any sign or other advertising
structure any obscene or~ indecent or i~mcra! matter.
It shall be unlawful for a person to display false or misleading statements upon signs,
calculated to mislead the public as to anything sold, any services to be performed or
information disseminated. The fact that any 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 the sign or permitting same to
be displayed.
Section 3. Aesthetics.
The aesthetic quality of a building or an entire neighborhood is materially affected by
achieving visual harmony of the signs on or about a structure as it relates to the architecture
of the building or the adjacent surroundings. In addition to the mechanical limitations on
signs imposed by this section, there are certain aesthetic considerations which must be met
and are therefore subject to review by the Planning andDevelopment Board when required.
A. The scale of the sign must be consistent with the scale of the building on
which it is to be placed or painted and the neighborhood in which it is located. However, in
no case shall it exceed the size provided for in other sections of this chapter.
B. The overall effect of the configuration or coloring of the sign shall be
consistent with the Community Design Guidelines. The configuration and colors shall be
complementary with other signs already on the building and on adjacent properties.
All freestanding signs shall be landscaped in an attractive manner, appropriate to the
specific location, with a minimum dimension of the landscaped area not less than two (2)
feet. Landscaping shall be protected from vehicular encroachment.
Section 4. Interpretation.
Where a question arises regarding the interpretation of this chapter, the most
restrictive interpretation shall prevail.
Interpretations of this chapter shall be made by the director of development or
designee.
Section 5. Setbacks.
All signs must meet a minimum ten (10) foot setback measured from the property line
to the closest surface of the sign. Where a building is closer than ten (10) feet from a
property line, a freestanding sign can have its leading edge one half way between the
property line and the building. Wall signs can be on the building surface.
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When an accessway intersects a public right-of-way or when the subject property
abuts the intersection of two (2) or more public rights-of-way, all signage within the
triangular areas described below shall provide unobstructed cross-visibility at a level between
thirty (30) inches and six (6) feet. The triangular areas above referred to are:
A. The areas of property on both sides of an accessway formed by the
intersection of each side of the accessway and the public right-of-way line with two (2) sides
of each triangle being ten (10) feet in length (or more when determined to be necessary by
the development department), from the point of intersection and the third side being a line
connecting the end of the other two (2) sides.
B. The area of property located at a comer formed by the intersectiOn of two (2)
or more public or private rights-of-way, with two (2) sides of the triangular area being thirty-
five (35) feet in length along the abutting public right-of-way lines, measured from their
point of intersection and the third side being a line connecting the ends of the other two (2)
lines.
Section 6. Special signs.
A. Temporary project development signs. Large areas under development 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 this chapter relating to the specific zoned area. Permits for said signs 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. Signs must be removed when the final building
inspection is called for.
B. Temporary construction signs. One (1) non-illuminated 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 sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
2. Such sign shall not be erected prior to the issuance of a building permit
and must be removed when the building or project is completed; provided, however, if such
sign is erected as permitted hereunder and construction is not commenced within one
hundred eighty (180) days after permit is issued, or if such construction is substantially
abandoned for one hundred eight (180) days as evidenced by a lack of successful inspections
and/or other pertinent conditions, such sign shall be immediately removed by the owner or
lessee of the premises.
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3. Such sign shall be located on the premises being developed in
accordance with the requirements 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 fight-of-way when approved by the director of development.
The owner shall have the signs made at the owner's expense, but according to the
specifications of the city. Said signs shall be placed by the responsible governmental body at
the expense of the owner and when the sign is in the public right-of-way, it shall be placed on
opposite comers from street signs. A limit of six (6) signs on one (1) pole may be permitted
at each street intersection.
temporary nature, not to exceed seventy-five (75) square feet in area, -'*';"*'
h,:,--~-l~+ +,-. .I-h ........ -;~--. .-,..A ...h;.-.l~ ,-,...~ .;..-1;.A,4...11.. ,-,-,~ ...... A
devcqopm~, may be permitted. Such signs shall be located at specified points for the
convenience of the traveling public. The signs shall be removed within five (5) days of the
completion of the event.
3. 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.
4. Temporary directional signs may be erected to guide traffic to building
models at intersections in the city rights-of-way. Such signs shall not exceed three (3) square
feet in area, nor be more than three (3) feet in height above the grade of the right-of-way.
Said signs shall be approved by the development department. Not more than six (6) such
signs will be allowed for any one (1) development. These signs shall be placed at the
development department's discretion and in all cases shall be placed as close as possible to
the development from the main thoroughfare.
5. A residential subdivision, residential development or neighborhood
association of twenty-five (25) units or more, may be allowed one (1) identification sign at
each major intersection which serves the residential subdivision, residential development or
neighborhood association, not to exceed two such locations. Each sign may have no more
than two (2) faces not exceeding sixteen (16) square feet each face, and may be located in the
public right-of-way when traffic visibility is unobstructed and the location is approved by the
director of development. Upon approval, the city and the representatives of the residential
subdivision or residential development or neighborhood association shall enter into a license
agreement, setting forth the terms and conditions upon which approval to place the sign on
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the public right-of-way is granted. Approval does not preclude the necessity to secure
approvals from other governmental agencies.
D. Temporary political signs may be posted on private property within the city
during the sixtyt,,,,jt'cm ,~--v'~n~T period preceding 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
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 n~ove
o;,,,~T t,cm ~aysame period. All political signs must comply with the structural and setback
requirements of this Code.
E. Bus shelter signs. Signs on city transit stop shelters may be permitted when
authorized by written agreement approved by action of the City Commission pursuant to the
provisions of Section 337.407(2), F.S. When so authorized, the following standards shall
apply:
1. Signs on city transit stop shelters and associated structures and
equipment, including but not limited to benches, bicycle racks, and trash receptacles, shall be
permitted only at city transit stops designated by the city, or other areas approved by the City.
Placement of bus shelters shall be subject to city review so that no shelter shall be permitted
to obstruct a public sidewalk or create a hazard or to otherwise be detrimental to the public
safety. A permit for each bus shelter shall be required, but no permit fee shall be charged.
2. Bus shelters and associated structures or equipment shall be designed
to meet city building code requirements, if any.
3. Any bus shelter or associated structures or equipment located on a
sidewalk within a public right-of-way, shall be so located so as to leave at least thirty-six (36)
inches clearance for pedestrians and persons in wheelchairs. Such clearance shall be
measured in a direction perpendicular to the centerline of the road. In addition, shelters and
pads shall comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Implementation Manual,
Accessibility Guidelines for Transportation Facilities; Part IV of the Federal Register,
Transportation for Individuals with Disabilities; Florida Statutes, Section 337; the Florida
Administrative Code Rule Chapter 14-20 and any city standards or guidelines for placement
and design.
4. Not more than one bus shelter or associated structures or equipment
displaying signage or intended for the display of signage shall be permitted at a city transit
stop.
5. Display space on bus shelters shall be limited in location and size to
the side or rear wind screen panels. If any *- .... h~l{ ......... ;~*g~ ~1~" .......... ~ .... *
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spcnsonng v.~, ...........
6. Should any bus shelter, associated structures or equipment or sign on
an associated structure or equipment, or bus shelter sign fail to conform to the above
standards; or should a residential property owner object to the presence of a bus shelter
abutting his property, then the city may order the sponsoring organization to remove such bus
shelter and, that failing, may remove same at the expense of the sponsoring organization.
F. Temporary banners may be posted on private commercial or industrially
zoned property within the city for one period of time not to exceed two weeks within a one
period Nc
year .
--A+ ~ ..... ~ + ................ 1 ....... ;..,d 1.,,~: ......... + Temporary banners may not
exceed an area of twenty (20) square feet each, may not be placed in setbacks, and may not
create any obstruction to motorist visibility. Applicant shall agree to remove banners within
twelve hours upon posting of a tropical storm or hurricane watch. This subsection shall not
be applicable to the City of BoyntOn Beach, nor shall it prevent the City from using banner
signs to announce municipal activities, events or programs.
(Ord. No. 96-61, § 3, 1-21-97; Ord. No. 97-42, § 1, 8-19-97)
Section 7. Nonconforming signs.
A sign or advertising structure in an area annexed into the city after the adoption of
Ordinance No. 91-1 (January 15, 1991) shall be brought into compliance with all provisions
of the Sign Code within six (6) months following the date of annexation. No amortization
period provided herein shall apply to signs within such annexation areas.
A billboard sign in an area of Palm Beach County which is' annexed into the City of
Boynton Beach after the date of adoption of Ordinance No. 94-18 (June 21, 1994) shall be
brought into compliance with all provisions of the Sign code within five (5) years following
the date of annexation, provided that any billboard on undeveloped land shall be brought into
compliance as a condition precedent to the issuance of any development order sought prior to
the five-year amortization period. An existing billboard sign which was annexed into the
City of Boynton Beach after January 15, 1991 shall be brought into compliance within five
(5) years from the date of adoption of Ordinance No. 94-18 (June 21, 1994). The provisions
of this section which define and delineate a nonconforming sign shall apply to all billboards
annexed into the city.
Any existing sign which does not conform to the requirements of this chapter, shall
hereafter be deemed nonconfoIming. All signs must be maintained to original standards and
conditions and upon modification must comply with all sections of this chapter. Relettering
or change of copy, provided there is no alteration or repair made to the sign structure, shall
not constitute a modification.
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Nonconforming signs shall be removed, changed or altered to conform to the
provisions of this chapter by December 31, 1999.
A sign shall not be deemed nonconforming if any one of the following conditions
apply:
A. The sign is a freestanding sign which does not exceed 24 feet in height but is
otherwise in conformance with all provisions of this chapter; or
B. The sign is a wall sign or freestanding sign which does not exceed the sign
limitations set forth in this Sign Code by more than 20 percent and is otherwise in
conformance with all provisions of this chapter; or
C. The sign is a freestanding sign which does not meet the setback requirements
of this chapter, but does not otherwise violate the setback requirements set forth in Article
III, Section 5 or any other provisions of this chapter.
If any nonconforming sign is damaged by any cause or is otherwise in need of repair,
to such an extent that the cost of repairing the sign equals fifty (50) per cent or more of the
original cost of the sign, then its classification as a "nonconforming" sign under this section
shall be automatically revoked and repairs shall be made so that such sign shall meet all the
requirements of this chapter.
(Ord. No. 96-61, § 4, 1-21-97)
Section 8. Overhead clearance.
A sign projecting over areas where vehicular traffic may be required to pass shall be
erected to maintain a minimum clearance of sixteen (16) feet for the free passage of such
vehicles.
ARTICLE IV. SIGNS ALLOWED
Section 1. Signs allowed in residential zoning districts.
The following signs are allowed and regulated in residential zoning districts:
A. One (1) plaque not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
B. On plots containing permitted nonresidential structures or uses, a flat or
freestanding sign, not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area will be permitted for the
'limited purpose of advertising only the main use of the premises. A flat wall sign on a
building must not be higher than ten (10) feet, and a freestanding sign must not be higher
than six (6) feet. Signs on entry walls may not extend above the top of the wall.
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C. Temporary real estate signs
1. Single Family: One (1) real estate sign not exceeding five (5) square
feet in area and no taller than four (4) feet is allowed per street frontage.
2. Multi-family or commercial: One (1) real estate sign not exceeding
thirty-two (32) square feet in area and no taller than six (6) feet is allowed per street frontage.
D. A condominium, residential development, or incorporated residential
neighborhood association may erect single faced name signs on each side of all entrances
on site walls or one (1) freestanding monument sign for each entrance. These signs are not to
exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, nor be more than six (6) feet in height.
E. Directional signs for multi-family or permitted nonresidential structures, not
exceeding four (4) square feet in area nor five (5) feet in height_may be allowed at points of
ingress and egress. (Ord. No. 96-61, § 5, 1-21-97)
Section 2. Signs allowed in commercial nonresidential districts not otherwise excluded.
The following signs are permitted and regulated in all commercial nonresidential
districts not specifically set forth elsewhere in this chapter:
A. One (1) real estate sign advertising the sale, rental or lease of a premises "For
Sale,~,ent/Lease", may be placed on the premises and shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square
feet in area, nor six (6) feet in height. One (1) such sign is permitted for each street frontage.
B. One (1) double faced freestanding sign advertising bbc-use-activity occurring
on of the premises. The maximum area for this sign shall be one (1) square foot of area for
each linear foot of street frontage; no such sign shall exceed sixty-four (64) square feet in
area. No sign shall be taller than twenty (20) feet.
C. One (1) or more fixed projecting or flat wall sign(s) which advertises the use
ofactivit¥ occurring on the premises, provided that for the projecting sign, the sign and its
supports shall not extend more than three (3) feet beyond the face of the wall, nor shall either
sign extend above the parapet of the building or beyond the building comers. The maximum
area for this signage shall be one and one half (1-1/2) square feet of area for each one (1) foot
of linear building frontage.
D. In addition to the other signs in this section, one (1) 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-face menu sign with
illustrated face not to exceed twenty-five (25) square feet. Such signs will allow for
instructions on use of pick-up window 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.
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E. Non-illuminated identification signs shall be permitted on the rear door of all
business establishments provided such signs are limited to three (3) square feet in area.
F. Directional signs, not exceeding four (4) square feet in area, nor five (5) feet
in height with a limit of four (4) signs per lot, located at points of parking lot ingress and
egress.
G. Temporary business identification signs shall be permitted instead of other
wall signs permitted in this section. One (1) temporary sign for a maximum of thirty (30)
days, can be permitted when a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued, pending the
approval of a sign apphcation, if at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy an application
for a sign permit has been submitted to the development department.
Section 3. Signs allowed in shopping centers and public use districts.
The following signs are permitted and regulated for shopping centers:
A. One (1) real estate sign advertising "For Sale/Rent/Lease", may be placed on
the premises and shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, nor six (6) feet in
height. One (1) such sign is permitted for each street frontage.
B. One (1) freestanding sign advertising flae-useactivit¥ conducted on of the
premises. The maximum area for this sign shall be one (1) square foot of sign area for each
linear foot of street frontage of the lot provided such sign does not exceed one hundred sixty
(160) square feet in area or a maximum height of twenty (20) feet. Lots which front on more
than one (1) collector and/or arterial roadway shall be allowed one (1) additional freestanding
sign, not to exceed one hundred sixty (160) square feet in area with a maximum height of
twenty (20) feet, to be located on the additional roadway.
C. One (1) or more flat wall sign(s) which advertises the use ofactivity occurring
o_gn the premises. The maximum area for this signage shall be one and one half (1-1/2) square
feet of area for each one (1) foot of linear building frontage.
D. Where a covered walkway is present, each store shall be permitted one (1)
under canopy sign not to exceed three (3) square feet in area. This sign shall be placed in
front of each occupancy perpendicular to the building face under the covered walkway and
shall not be less than ninety (90) inches from the walkway, with a rigid mounting.
E. A directory sign, not exceeding eighteen (18) square feet in area, is permitted.
This directory sign can not exceed a height of six (6) feet and must be placed within the
building setback area.
F. Non-illuminated identification signs shall be permitted on the rear door of any
business establishment, provided they are limited to three (3) square feet in area.
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G. Directional signs, not exceeding four (4) square feet in area, nor five (5) feet
in height with a limit of four (4) signs per lot, located at points of parking lot ingress and
egress.
H. Temporary business identification signs shall be permitted instead of other
wall signs allowed in this section. One (1) temporary sign for a maximum of thirty (30)
days, can be permitted when a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued pending the
approval of a sign application if at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy, an application
for a sign permit has been submitted to the development department.
Section 4. Signs allowed in malls.
The following signs are permitted and regulated in malls:
A. Exterior building wall signs, one per exterior wall face of each major
department store and other center section stores with exterior customer entrances. These
signs must not exceed ten (10) percent of the exterior wall face upon which they are attached.
Each entrance from the public right-of-way into the mall will be allowed a three-sided
freestanding sign not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area per sign face. A
freestanding sign, in compliance with Article IV, Section 3.B will be permitted in lieu of the
above referenced entrance signs.
B. Directional signs, not exceeding four (4) square feet in area, nor five (5) feet
in height with a limit of four (4) signs per lot, located at points of parking lot ingress and
egress.
C. A directory sign, not exceeding eighteen (18) square feet in area, is permitted.
This directory sign can not exceed a height of six (6) feet and must be placed within the
building setback area.
D. Non-illuminated identification signs shall be permitted on the rear door of
business establishments, provided they are limited to three (3) square feet in area.
E. One (1) real estate sign advertising "For Sale/Rent/Lease", may be placed on
the premises and shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, nor six (6) feet in
height. One (1) such sign is permitted for each street frontage.
Section 5. Signs allowed in industrial zoning districts.
The following signs are permitted and regulated in industrial zoning districts:
A. One (1) real estate sign advertising that a premises is for sale, rent or
lease"For~,~n'~n>.~.,,, ~..~..~.~rr~-~o~". may be placed on the premises and shall not exceed thirty-two
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(32) square feet in area, nor six (6) feet in height. One (1) such sign is permitted for each
street frontage.
B. One (1) freestanding sign, not exceeding sixty-four (64) square feet in area,
advertising gae-use-ofactivity occurring on the premises. This sign shall be predicated on the
basis of one half (1/2) square foot of sign area for each one (1) linear foot of street frontage,
with a maximum height of twenty (20) feet.
C. One (1) or more fixed projecting or flat wall sign(s) which advertises activi _ty
occurring on ~emse-og-the premises, provided that for the projecting sign, the sign and its
supports shall not extend more than three (3) feet beyond the face of the wall, nor shall either
sign extend above the parapet of the building or beyond the building comer. The maximum
area for this signage shall be one (1) square foot of area for each one (1) foot of linear
building frontage.
D. Non-illuminated identification signs shall be permitted on the rear door of
business establishments, provided they are limited to three (3) square feet in area.
E. A directory sign, not eXceeding eighteen (18) square feet in area, is permitted.
This directory sign can not exceed a height of six (6) feet and must be placed within the
building setback area.
F. Lots which have uses which front on 1-95 may be permitted additional flat
sign(s) subject to the limitations imposed in Article IV, Section 5.C if the building is
designed to front on 1-95. For purposes of clarification, 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 were
fronting on a street.
G. Directional signs, not exceeding four (4) square feet in area, nor five (5) feet
in height, with a limit of four (4) signs per lot, located at points of parking lot ingress and
egress.
H. Temporary business identification signs shall be permitted instead of other
wall signs permitted in this section. One (1) temporary sign for a maximum of thirty (30)
days, can be permitted when a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued pending the
approval of a sign application, if at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy, an application
for a sign permit has been submitted to the development department.
Section 6. Signs in the central business district.
The following signs are permitted and regulated in the central business district
(CBD):
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A. One (1) real estate sign advertising that a premises is for sale, rent or
.... ,,e^,. e~/r, ~./T .... "may be placed on the premises and shall not exceed sixteen (16)
square feet in area, nor six (6) feet in height.
B. One (1) freestanding sign, not to exceed eighty (80) square feet in area,
advertising activity occuring ont-hem~ of the premises. The maximum area for this sign
shall be one (1) square foot of sign area for each one and one half (1-1/2) linear feet of street
frontage, with a maximum height of twenty (20) feet.
C. One (1) or more fixed projecting or flat wall sign(s) which advertises activi _ty
occuring on the use cf the premises, provided that for the projecting sign, the sign and its
supports shall not extend more than three (3) feet beyond the face of the wall, nor shall either
sign extend above the parapet of the building or beyond the building comer. The maximum
area for this signage shall be one (1) square foot of area for each one (1) foot of linear
building frontage.
D. Directional signs, not exceeding four (4) square feet in area, nor five (5) feet
in height, with a limit of four (4) signs per lot, located at points of parking lot ingress and
egress.
E. Where a covered walkway is present, each store shall be permitted one (1)
under canopy sign not to exceed three (3) square feet in area. This sign shall be placed in
front of each occupancy under the covered walkway and shall not be less than ninety (90)
inches from the walkway, with a rigid mounting.
F. Identification signs shall be permitted on the rear door of business
establishments, provided they are limited to three (3) square feet in area.
G. Temporary business identification signs shall be permitted instead of other
wall signs allowed in this section. One (1) temporary sign for a maximum of thirty (30)
days, can be permitted when a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued pending the
approval of a sign application, if at the time of the Certificate of Occupancy, an application
for a sign permit has been submitted to the development department.
Section 7. Signs permitted in planned districts.
The following are the general requirements for signs in planned districts (PUD, PCD
and PID); for specific allowable signage, see the regulations for each regular zoning district.
A. Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to encourage continuity for
signage in the planned districts, while allowing for flexibility with respect to type, color,
number, location (exclusive of setbacks) and design of signs. The general requirements for
each planned district can be found in the corresponding regular zoning district in this sign
chapter. The approval of signs in planned districts require the submission of a sign program
for the entire project as part of the site plan approval process.
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B. Sign program. All requests for approval of a sign program shall be filed as
part of the original site plan approval process or as a modification to the approved site plan.
All applications shall be filed by the sign owner or his agent, with the appropriate fee and
shall describe and set forth the following:
1. The type and number of signs or sign structures.
2. The area per sign and dimensions of structures.
3. Three (3) certified copies of the site plan showing sign location, sign
elevations and construction details, such as materials, colors, wind resistance requirements
and structural details.
4. In addition to the above, one (1) set of colored sign elevations with all
copy shown in the type style to be used.
Section 3. Conflicting Ordinances.
All prior ordinances or resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to
the extent of such conflict.
Section 4. Severability.
If any section, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, then said holding shall in no way
affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.
Section 5. Inclusion in Code.
It is the intention of the City Commission of the CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, Florida, that
the provisions of this Ordinance shall become and be made a part of the CITY OF
BOYNTON BEACH Code of Ordinances; and that the sections of this ordinance may be
renumbered or relettered and the word "ordinance" may be changed to "section," "article," or
such other appropriate word or phrase in order to accomplish such intentions.
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Section 6. Effective Date.
This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) calendar days after adoption by the City
Commission.
FIRST READING this/~day of "~)~-~--.. , 2000.
SECOND, FINAL READING AND PASSAGE this ~ day orca/ ,
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
er~_
Commissioner
IIII
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