O01-50ORDINANCE NO. O1- '~
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA AMENDING
PART HI, "LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS",
CHAPTER 1, "GENERAL PROVISIONS", ARTICLE II
"DEFINITIONS"; TO CLARIFY THE DEFINITION FOR
THE TERM "BANNER"; AMENDING PART HI, "LAND
DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS", CHAPTER 21,
"SIGNS", OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY
OF BOYNTON BEACH IN ITS ENTIRETY, TO PROVIDE
FOR THE REGULATION, ADMINISTRATION, AND
ENFORCEMENT OF REGULATIONS CONCERNING THE
PLACEMENT AND APPEAR_~NCE OF PERMANENT AND
TEMPORARY SIGNS.; PROVIDING FOR DESIGNATED
CORRIDORS FOR TH~ OF
SIGNS WITHIN THE PUBLI£ OF WAY WITmN
THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT,
SEVERABILITY, CODH~-ICATION, AND' PROVIDING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City administration has been in the process of a review of the
)rovisions of the City's Sign Code and has made recommendations based upon
idministrative considerations, emerging trends, aesthetic concerns, and emerging legal
lidelines; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has determined that it is in the best interest of the
)mmunitv ro amend provisions of the Sign Code to facilitate enforcement, administration,
md to con'ply with emerging legal guidelines; and
WHEREAS, the amendments hereinafter set forth will facilitate the administration of
:he City's regulation of signs in a manner which balances aesthetic concerns, commercial
aeeds, and existing property rights; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission has determined that it is in the best interest of the
~esthetic concerns of the City of Boynton Beach that this Ordinance be adopted.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF
YHE CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA:
Section 1. The foregoing "WHEREAS" clauses are lame and correct and hereby
ratified and confirmed by the City Commission.
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Section 2. Article II, "Definitions", Chapter 1, "Gcm~ral Provisions", of the Land
Development Regulations, Part III of the Code of Ordinances is amended as follows:
BANNER - A sign having the characters, letters, illustrations
or ornamentation applied to cloth, paper, film or fabric of any
kind, with only such materials for a backing. Bar.=~r shall .uc~
.................... ~al. c?:i: cr c.h;'~ch flag:, awn:rigs ^~
Section 3. That Part III, "Land Developmcmt Regulations", Chapt~ 21, "Signs",
)f the Code of Ordinances of the City of Boynton Beach, Florida, be, and the same is h~reby
mended to read as follows:
2HAPTER 21: SIGNS
ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL
Section 1. Short title.
This chapter shall hereafter be known and cited as "The Boynton Beach Sign
Ordinance."
Section 2. Definitions:
"Si~" shall mean and include any letter, fim~re, character, mark,
plane, point, marquee simon, design, poster, pictorial, picture, banner, stroke,
stripe, line. trademark or readin~ material which shall be constructed, placed,
attached, painted, erected, fastened, manu/hctm'ed or displa,ved in any manner
whatsoever for the purpose of intbrming of or advertising about the nature,
t~,pe or quality of goods, services or activities available; or m advertise the
name of any firm. comoration business or any other enterprise, or ks nature.
r~pe or quality of goods, se~wices or activities: or to attract to or identii¥ anv
of the aforementioned or by irs natm-e, act m draw attention to a business.
Ever-/siva shall be classified and shall contbrm to the requirements set forth
in this chapter.
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Section 3g. 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 business 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
pubhc and to authorize the use of signs which are:
A. Compatible with their surroundings.
B. 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.
Section 4_8. Penalties; enforcement.
Any person violating any of the provisions of this chapter shall be
deemed gnilty 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 5_4. Permitting.
Except as provided in Article II, Section 2 it shall be unlawful for any
person to erect, repair, alter, or relocate ~vithin the city any sign and the
uppo ~ ~'~'~*;~;~ ~
structure s rtin~ the si~n or ~t .... ,-,~e ~,~ ........ as defined in this
chapter, without first obtaining a permit from the Boymon 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 and structures supportin~ signs or zign aumcmres 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
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sign, or to immediately remove such sign and the structure supporting such
m[m e~ o~ ......... upon notice that the sign or structure support/ng the si~n
or ~,e ......... ~s ~llegal. The notice shall contain a time period for removal.
Section _65. Apphcation.
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,
........ ~ ....... 1S tO
the sign and structure supporting the si,m~ or off,er ~"~;~; ...........
be attached or erected;
C. Position of the sign and sn'ucmre supporting the sign cr
a~ ........ ~ 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.
E. Documents showing that the structure supporting the sign is
designed for dead load and wind load in any direction in an amount consistent
with the reqmremems 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 the
signs or sign s~'acrures and/or sm~cture supporting the siam which have an
area exceeding thirty~two (32) square feet and/or exceeding ten (10) feel 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, fu-m, corporation or association erecting the
si~o-n and the s~zucmre supporting the sign s~acture;
G. Written consent of the owner of the building, structure or land
to which or on which the sign and the structure supporting the sign is to be
erected;
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H. The type of sign o~and si~'~ structure supporting the si~,n as
defined by this chapter;
The estimated value of the s~gn and/or the structure supporting
the sign srruc'~ure;
J. All electrical details required to determine code compliance for
the sign and the structure supporting the sian; and
All such other information as the development deparunent shall
require to demonstrate compliance with this and all other laws
and ordinances of the city.
Section 7& Permit issuance.
The developmem department shall examine plans and specifications
and other data and the premises upon which it ~s proposed to erect the sign
and structure supporting the sign or c:k~r ad:Tc~zlng ~u~c~ure, and if it
appears that the sign and Stmcurre is in comphance with all the requirements
of this chapter and all other laws and ordinances of the city, the depamncmt
shall issue a sign permit. All permits are subjec~ to the requirements
contained in the latest adopted Countywide Administrative section of the
Standard Building Code.
Section _8¢. 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 or structure supporting a sign which is erected or is 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 9_~. Annual inspection.
The city may inspect at any time each s~gn or ~*~- ~'~;"~
s~x .... structure suppom ~ sign regulated by this chapter for the purpose
of ascertaining whether the same is unsafe, in need of repair or mamtenance,
not in conformance with the permit application or otherwise in violation of the
provismns of this chapter.
Section 109. Revocation of permit.
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The development departmc'nt 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 l 1J,8. Unsafe and unlawful signs.
If it is determined that any sigu~_--or structure supporting a sign. ~
*~ .... ~,~:~:~ ...... regulated herein ts unsafe or insecure, or is a
menace to the public, or has been consu-ucted or erected or is being
maintained in violation of the provisions of this ordinance, h~ the appropriate
City Official shall give wtittcm notice to the owner thereof. If the owner falls
ro remove or alter the sign or structure so as to comply with the standards
herein set forth within the time prescribed in the notice, such sign or c*3er
~.~4~:~,. structure may be removed or altered to comply by the city at the
expense of the permittee or owner of the property upon winch/~ the sign o.r_
structure supporting the sign 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 structure
supporting a s~gn ct.h~er--ad~c:s:n~, s~-*.ure which presents an immediate
petit to persons or property to be removed without notice.
Section 1244:. Permit number posting.
Every sign or structure support/ne a siRn et:her ~ ..... :~: .........
hereafter erected shall have placed in a conspmuous place thereon, the permit
number of the sign.
Section 13~. Maintenance.
The owner of any sign and structure supporting a sigm as defined and
regulated by this chapter~ shall be required to properly maintain said sign and
structure. 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 14~. Licensing, competency of contractors.
A person shall not engage in the business of erecting, painting, wiring
or maintaining signs witinn the city without first having procured an
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occupational license for such business from both the city and the county. The
following qualifications shall govern the categories of sign work:
A. Sign conu'ac~or, 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
s~gn circuit and may contract and secure permits for the erection of electrical
mgns 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 ro the Standard BuildingCode and who may secure permits for the
erection of electrical signs or s~gn structures (but must sublet the electrical
work unless an electrical contractor ~s 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 mariner and shall comply with all other sections of this
chapter.
Section 15J~4. Wind pressure and dead load requirc~ments.
All signs and other advertising sumcmres 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 16~. Removal of abandoned signs.
Any sign, or sumcmre supporting a sign, now or hereafter existing
which no longer advertises a bona fide business conducted or a product sold
shall be taken down and rcmaoved 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.
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After denial of a sign permit by the development department, a request
for variance may be filed with the board of zouing appeals. The board of
zoning appeals may grant a variance if it finds thal the unusual shape or
topography of the property in question prevents signage allowable under the
provisions of this ordinance from adequately identifying the bumness 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
C. Allow the number of signs to be increased over the maximum
allowed by this code.
No variances may be granted to signs expressly prohibited by this chapter.
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 stgns 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 reqmrements 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 m area (Beware of Dog, Watch your Step, Name and Address, etc.).
C. Window/door signs using less than twenty (20) percent of the
total glass area facing in any one directior~ This area is not included in the
total sign area allowed under this chapter. These signs are not permitted in
residential zoning districts.
D. Political signs. These signs must comply with Article III,
Section 6.D of this Chapter.
E. Flags~.
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t~E. Bulletin boards not over eight (8) square feet in area for public,
charitabl~-or religious institutions when the same are located on the premises
of such institutions.
G_F.. Occupational signs denoting only the name and profession of I
an occupant m a commercial building, public institutional building or
dwelling house and not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
R~_. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and date of [
erection, when cut into any masonry surface or when constracted of bronze or
other incombustible materials.
Vk!_. Traffic or other governmental signs, legal notices, railroad
crossing signs, danger signs and such temporary, emergency or non-
advertising signs as may be approved bythe city.
~_I. Signs indicating the address and/or name of the residential
occupants of the premises, not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
t~_. Vehicular signs.
Bus shelter signs.
Section 3. Prohibitions.
The following signs and related equipment are prohibited in all
districts:
A. Any sign and/or sign structure which does not meet all the
criteria set forth in this chapter.
B. Animated/fluttering signs
C. Balloons
Bus bench signs
YE_E_. Festoons
@F_. Flashing signs
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~_G. Roof signs
IH. Rotating signs
~[I. Signs that swing
tg_J. Sidewalk signs (sandwich/"A" fi:me)
~K_. Portable signs
ML_. Signs that obstruct flee ingress to or egress fi:om a door,
window, fire escape or other required exit or entrance.
NM. Signs which use the words DANGER, STOP or LOOK or any
other words, phrases, graphics or characters in a manner as to intm'fere with,
confuse or mislead traffic.
OW. Snipe signs or s~gns attached to or painted on fnce escapes,
television antennas, satellite dishes, utility poles or any other associated
structure.
taO. Signs which emit odors, sounds, smoke, vapor or other visible
matter.
(~P. Signs or sign smmmres supported by visible guy wtres, cables
or where there is visible electrical conduit.
t~g!. Unauthorized signs on property owned by or under control of
the City of Boynton Beach.
_, ......... a ,~,;+~..~ ..... ;, t,~; ....... a tmtess approved pursuant to this
Chapter.
¢S_. Off premises signs, except those permitted under Article Ill,
Section 6 or Chapter 22, Article II, Section 7, Paragraph O.
¢'_I'. Electrical signs of a commercial nature 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.
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YL_i. Commercial advertising matter, including but not limited to,
circulars, throwaways, handbills; provided however, this prohibition shall not
be construed to prevent the use, distribution 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. This prohibition shall not be construed to
include business cards.
x~JV. Billboards.
XW. Non-geometric signs shaped to depict figures or demonstrative
shapes used to attract attention to the business activity with which the sign is
associated.
YW. Painted Wall Signs.
ARTICLE III. SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Section 1. Traffic hazards.
No sign or ~ structure supportin~ a sign regulated by
this chapter shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in such a manner
as to obstruct flee 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.
It shall be unlawful for any person to display upon any sign or other
advertising structure any obscene, indecent or immoral 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 s~gu 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 s~gns on or about a
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structure supportin~ a si ~g~!._ as it relates to the architecture of the building or
the adjacent surroundings. In addition to the mechanical limitations on signs
unposed by tiffs section, there are certain aesthetic considerations which must
be met and are therefore subject to review by the Planning and Development
Board ~vhen required.
The scale of the sign must be consistent with thc scale of thc
building on which it is to be placed or painted and the
neighborhood in wiffch it is located. However, ~n no case shall
it exceed the size provided for in other sections of tiffs chapter.
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 [wo (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 tiffs 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 fi:om
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 halfway between the property line and the building. Wall
signs can be on the building surface.
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:
The areas of property on both sides of an accessway formed by
the intersection of each side of the accessway and the public
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Section 6.
A.
right-of-way line with ~wo (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
mid the third side being a line connecting the end of the other
two (2) sides.
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 oth~ two (2) lines.
Special signs.
Temporary project development signs. Large areas under
development shall be permitted two (2) s~gns not to exceed a
combined aggregate area of two hundred frf~y (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 nme
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
consu'uction or site development is filed. These signs must be
removed within sixty (60) days after the pemnt 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.
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:
Such sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in
area.
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
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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.
Such sign shall be located on the premises being
developed in accordance with the requirements of this
Code relating to the specific zone areas.
Directional s~gns.
General directional signs limited to six (6) per c~vic
organization, church, recreational facility and limited to
one hundred forty-four (144) square inches per sign and
located m street intersections or other locations for the
convenience of the traveling public, may be permitted
in city right-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 m the expense of the
owner mad when the sign is in the public right-of-way,
k shall be placed on opposite comers from street signs.
A l/mit of six (6) signs on one (1) pole may be
permitted at each street intersection.
Special civic event, recreational or expositional signs of
a temporary nature, not to exceed seventy-five (75)
square feet in area, which are of general benefit to the
community and which are individually approved by the
director o f development, 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.
Street mgns. 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
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shah be identical to the street sign as to color, size and
shape.
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 deparunent. Not
more than six (6) such signs will be allowed for m~y one
(1) development. These signs shall be p}aced at the
development department's discretion and in all cases
shall be placed as close as possible to the development
from the main thoroughfare,
A residential subdivision, residential development or
neighborhood asSOciation of twenty-five (25) units or
more, may be alloWed one (1) identification sign m
each major intersection which serves the residential
subdivision, residential development or neighborhood
assoc:iation, 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 s~gn on the public right-of-way is granted.
Approval does not preclude the necessity to secure
approvals fi:om other governmental agencies.
Temporary political signs may be posted on private proper~y
within the city during the sixty (60) day period preceding any
local, state, or national election, with the consent of the
property owner. Candidates or parties desiring to post such
s~gns 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 s~gns 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
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and handbills may be distributed within the city during the
above sixty (60) day period. All political signs must comply
with the structural and setback requirements of this Code.
Bus shelter signs. Signs on city transit stop shelters may be
permitted when authorized by written agreement approved by
action of the City Commission pursuanl to the provisions of
Section 337.407(2), F.S. When so authorized, the following
standards shall apply:
Signs on city transit stop shelters and associated
structures and equipment, including but not limited m
benches, bicycle racks, and trash receptacles, shall be
permitted only at city transit stops designated by the
city, or other areas approved bythe 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 othenvise be detrimental to the
public safety. A permit for each bus shelter shall be
required, but no permit fee shall be charged.
Bus shekers and associated structures or equipmem
shall be designed to meet city building code
requirements, if any.
o
Any bus shelter or associated structures or equipment
located on a sidewalk within a public right-of-way,
shall be so located so as m 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 Pi 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.
Not more than one bus shelter or associated structures
or eqmpment displaying Slgnage or intended for the
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display of signage shall be permitted at a city transit
stop.
o
Display space on bus shelters shall be limited in
location and size to the side or rear wind screen panels.
If any bus shelter or associated structures or equipment
signage is deemed objectionable in the judgment of the
city, it shall be removed by the sponsoring organization.
Should any bus shelter, associated structures or
equipment or sign on an associated su~acture 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.
One Zl:temporary banners may be posted on private commercial
or industrially zoned property within the city for cne a period
of time not to exceed two weeks within a one year period. No
temporary banner sign may be displayed without ~vritten
approval in advance by the director of development or his/h~r
designee. Temporary banner signs shall be limited to
announcing the opening or closing of a commercial or
industrial business and shall not be used to announce any sale
or special business event. 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 l~e ~v ...... tc ~'~ t-~,,, ~r
r~^~+~ r~. .... ~n :+ ...... m p hib' th City fr
~,,~j ........... , .......... ~ .... ro it e om
~ placing banner signs on City owned property or wSthin
the pubtic ri~ht-of-way wSthin certain designated corridors
throughout the City in order to announce municipal or not-for
profit activities, events or programs pursuant to this Chapter.
Section 7. Nonconforming signs.
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A sign or adve2;ising structure smtcmre supporting a sign located in an
area annexed into the city after the adoption of Ordinance No. 91-1 (January
15, 1991) shall be brought into compliance with ail provisions of the Sign
Code ~vithin six (6) months following the date of annexation. No
amortization period provided herein shall apply to signs or sumcmres
su_~porfin~ the si,~ns within such mmexation areas.
A b/llboard 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 bebrought into compliance with all provisions of
the Sign code within five (5) years following the date of armexatio~ 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
Ordii~aace No..94-18 (June 21, 1~94). The proViSions of this section which
define ,and, delineate a nonconforming sign s~all 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 nonconforming. All signs must be
maintainer/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 stmctu~e, shall not
constitute a modification.
Nonconforming signs shall be removed, changed or aitered 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:
The sign ~s a freestanding sign which does not exceed 24 feet
in height but is otherwise in conformance with ail prowsions of
this chapter; or
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
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The sign is a freestanding s~gn which does not meet the setback
requirements of this chapter, but does not otherwise violate the
setback requirements set forth in Article 1~I, Section 5 or any
other provisions of this chapter.
If any nonconforming s~gn is damaged by any cause or is othffrwise 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.
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.
Bo
On plots containing permitted nonresidential su-ucmres 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.
C. Temporary real estate signs
Single Family: One (1) real estate sign not exceeding
five (5) square feet ~n area and no taller than four (4)
feet is allowed per street frontage.
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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.
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.
Directional s~gns 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:
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.
One (1) double faced freestanding sign advertising the use of
the prermses. 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.
one (1) or more fixed projecting or flat wall sign(s) which
advertises the use of 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
s~gn 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.
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Section 3.
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
sowed, with the top of the sign not to exceed five (5) feet
above ground level at the base of the sign.
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.
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.
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 pm'mit has
been submitted to the development department.
Signs allowed in shopping centers and public use districts.
The following signs are permitted and regulated for shopping centers:
One (1) real estate s~gn 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.
One (1) freestanding sign advertising the use 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 max/mum 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
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Section 4.
maximum height of twenty (20) feet, to be located on the
additional roadway.
One (1) or more flat wall sign(s) which advertises the use of
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.
Where a covered walkway is present, each store shall be
permitted one (1) under canopy sign not to exceed three (3)
square feet m area. This sign shall be placed in front of each
occupancy perpendicular to the building face under the covered
wall~ay a~d shall not be less than ninety (90) inches from the
walkway, with a rigid mounting.
A directory sign, not exceeding eighteen (18) square feet in
area, is pemaitted. This directory s~gn can not exceed a height
of six (6) feet and must be placed within the building setback
area.
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.
Directional signs, not exceeding four (4) square feet m 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.
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.
Signs allowed in malls.
The following signs are permitted and regulated in malls:
exterior building wall signs, one per exterior wall face of each
major department store and other center section stores with
exterior customer enucances. These signs must not exceed ten
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(10) percem 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.
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 m points of parking lot ingress and egress.
A directory sign, not exceeding eighteen (18) square feet in
area, ~s permitted. This directory sign can not exceed a height
of six (6) feet and must be plac~d within the building setback
area.
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.
One (1) real estate sign advertising '~For Sale/R~nt/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.
ection 5. Signs allowed in industrial zoning districts.
The following signs are permitted and regulated in industrial zoning districts:
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 ~n area, nor six f6) feet in height. One (1) such sign
is permitted for each street frontage.
One (1) freestanding sign, not exceeding sixty-four (64) square
feet in area, advertising the use of the premises. This s~gn 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.
One (1) or more fixed projecting or flat wall sign(s) which
advertises the use of the premises, provided that for the
projecting sign, the sign and its supports shall not extend more
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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 maximarn area for tiffs signage shall be
one (1) square foot of area for each one (1) foot of linear
building frontage.
Non-illuminated identification s~gns shall be permitted on the
rear door of business establishments, provided they are limited
to three (3) square feet in area.
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.
Lots which have uses which front on 1-95 may be permitted
additional flat sign(s) subject to the limitations ~mposed 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.
Go
Directional signs, not exceeding four (4) square feet in area,
nor five (5) feet in height, with a limit of four (4) s~gns per lot,
located at points of parking lot ingress and egress.
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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Section 7.
One (i) real estate sign advertising "For Sale/Rent/Lease", may
be placed on the premises and shall not exceed sixteen (16)
square feet in area, nor six (6) feet in height.
One (1) freestanding sign, not to exceed eighty (80) square feet
in area, advertising the use of the premises. The maxamum
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.
One (1) or more fixed projecting or flat wall sign(s) which
advertises the use of 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 maxirmma area for this signage shall be
one (1) square foot of area for each one (I) foot of linear
building frontage.
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.
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.
Identification signs shall be permitted on the rear door of
business establishments, provided they are limited to three (3)
square feet in area.
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 deparunent.
Signs permitted in planned districts.
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The following are the general requirements for s~gns in planned districts
(PUD, PCD and PID); for specific allowable signage, see the regulations for
each regular zoning district.
Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to encourage
continuity for signage in the planned districts, while allowing
for flexibility with respect m type, color, number, location
(exclusive of setbacks) and design of signs. The general
requiremants 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.
Sign program. All requests for approval of a s~gn 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 s~gn structures.
2. The area per sign and dimensions of structures.
o
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.
In addition to the above, one (1) set of colored s~gn
elevations with all copy shown in the type style to be
used.
Section 8. Signs Within Public Rights-of-Way and City Owned Property
The foltowinz are the zeneral requkements for ~lacina s/mas within the public
rights,of-way and on City owned property in order to announce public or not
~'or-profit events, activities, and/or programs:
Purpose and intent. The purpose and intent of this section is to
re~utate the placement of simas within public ri~hts-of-~vay and on
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_City owned property within the City in order to facilitate the
announcement of public and/or not-for-profit events, activities, and/or
pro,ams, and to insure the safety of residents and citizens with
respect to the placement of signs ~xSthin the public rights-of-way ancl
on City ow:ned property.
Sign Program Within the CiW there are hereby desimmted certain
corridors located along desimmted public fights-of-way in which signs
may be l~Iaced, pursuam to the provisions of this Chapter, on CiW
owned property or within the public right-of-way in order to announce
specific public and/or not-for-profit events, activities and/or progran~s.
Tlie corridors are as follows:
Seacresr Boulevard from Woolbriaht Ec,-a!:¥m-d Road to
Gateway Boulevard~
Woolbright Ec, u!eYard Road from Congress Avenue to the
West end of the Intracoastal Bridge,
East Ocean Avenue ~om Seacrest Boulevard east to the West
end of the Intmcoastal Br/dge_,
Conm'ess Avenue from GateYvay Boulevard south to Congress
Conmmnit~/MSddle School,
Bovnton Beach Boulevard from ~Vinchester Park Boulevard
east to S.E. 6m Court.
Federal Highxva¥ from Gateway Boulevard south to
~Voolbright Ba'a?:ardRoad, and
Martin Luther King Boulevard firom Seacrest Boulevard east to
Federal Highway..
Additionally, signs may be placed at the Bovnton Beach Tennis Center
in order ro announce special events held at the Temfis Center.
Within the designated corridors, vertical banner signs may only be
placed on utility poles located withLn the public rights-of-way pursuant
ro the following requirements:
1. The vertical banner signs may be placed on hardware ~t*sehed
to the utility poles by the Citv's Public Works Department,
after review and approval by the Development Department.
2. The vertical banner signs attached to utility poles may not
exceed six (6) feet in height.
3. No portion of a vertical banner sign may be used to advertise a
specific product or serwce. The barmer sign may. however,
display the name or logo of the sponsor of the public or not-
for-profit event, activity, and/or program or the event logo.
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A public or not-/hr-profit event is an event sponsored by
City or a community-based not-for-profit entity which shall be
reviewed by the City's Development Department and approved
bv City Council Resolution.
Do
City may place banners or other signs on ciW property in order to
decorate or announce specific public and/or not-for-profit events
activities and/or programs. Such signs shall be authorized by the
Recreation Depaftment, require a building permit unless determined
otherwise by the Buildin~ Official. and shall not be subject m area or
duration limits provided within this chapter.
Section 4. Conflicting Ordinances.
prior ordinances or resolutions or parts thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to
such confiict.
Section 5. Severability.
any section, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is held to be invalid or
r court of competent jutisdiction, then said holding shall in no way affect
' of the remaining portions of this Ordinance.
Section 6. Inclusion in Code.
is the intention of the City Commission of the CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, Florida, that
provisions of this Ordinance shall become and be made a pan of the CITY OF
BEACH Code of Ordinances; and that the sections of this ordinance may be
)r relettered and the word "ordinance" may be changed to "section," "article," or
or phrase in order m accomplish such intentions.
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Section 7. Effective Date.
this Ordinance slmll become effective thirty (30) calendar days after adoption by the City
Commission.
FIRST READING this~ day of~ 2001.
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SECOND, FINAL READING AND PASSAGE this q day of'[le~r, 2001.
CITY OF BOYNTON BEACH, FLORIDA
Commissioner
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