HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd 4519 01/19/1993/caf
12-31-92
ORDINANCE NO. 4519
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 7 "SIGN CODE"
OF THE VILLAGE CODE OF MOUNT PROSPECT
IN ITS ENTIRETY
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS:
SECTION ONE: That Chapter 7 entitled "Sign Code" of the Village
Code of Mount Prospect, as amended, is hereby further amended in
its entirety; so that hereinafter said Chapter 7 of the Village
Code shall be and read as follows:
,, CHAPTER 7
SIGN CODE
ARTICLE I
GENERAL
SECTION:
7.101. Purpose
See. 7.101. Purpose. The regulations of this Chapter are intended to coordinate the use,
placement, physical dimensions, and design of all signs within the Village. The purpose of
these regulations is to promote the pub/de health, safety and welfare, and develop a
satisfactory visual appearance with the Village by:
A. Promoting the goals, objectives, principles and standards identified in the
Comprehensive Plan for commercial and industrial development; and
B. Protecting the public from damage or injury caused by signs which are poorly designed
or maintained and from distractions or hazards to pedestrians or motorists caused by
the indiscriminate placement or use of signs; and
C. Maintaining property values by eliminating signs that are incompatible with the
surrounding land uses; and
D. Encouraging a viable economic environment through uniform control of signs; and
E. Facilitating effective communication between the public and the environment through
signs which are appropriate for the type of street on which they are located; and
F. Encouraging quality sign design to promote a better visual environment; and
G. Enhancing the physical appearance of the Village through a program which ensures the
removal of inadequately maintained, illegal and nonconforming signs within a
reasonable time period.
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ARTICLE II
SCOPE
SECTION:
7.201. Scope
7.205. Exempt Signs
Sec. 7.2,01. Scope. The regulations of this Chapter shall govern and control the erection,
alteration, relocation, maintenance, removal, and design of all signs within the Village.
Sec. 7.205. Exempt Signs. The following types of signs are exempted from the general
provisions of this Article and all permit requirements therein. All other signs shall be
allowed only with permit and upon proof of compliance with Mount Prospect Sign
Ordinance.
A. Traffic Control. Signs for the control of traffic or other regulatory purposes including
signs for the control of parking on private property, and official messages erected by,
or on the authority of, a public officer in the performance of his duty.
B. Nonilluminated. Nonilluminated signs not to exceed two (2) square feet in area which
identify the address and/or occupants of a dwelling unit or of an establishment.
C. Public Information. Signs which identify restrooms, public telephones or provide
instructions as required by law or necessity, provided the sign does not exceed two (2)
square feet in area or approved by the Director.
D. Sale, Lease, Rent. Signs used to offer for sale, lease or rent the land or buildings upon
which the sign is located, provided:
1. The sign does not exceed ten (10) square feet in area.
2. The sign does not exceed six feet (6') in height from the finished floor elevation of
any relevant space not more than two (2) stories from ground level.
3. No more than one such sign is displayed per street frontage per lot.
4. The sign is removed within seven (7) days of the real estate closing or lease
transaction.
E. Flags. Flags of a nation, state, or political subdivision, and corporate flags; provided:
1. Corporate flags will be allowed in addition to national, state and/or political
subdivision flags provided that:
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a. Said flag is located on an individual lot in a planned office or industrial park,
or
b. Said flag is located on a major corporate office property of ten (10) acres or
more.
2. The flag is located in such a manner that no portion of the flag will project over
any property line or contact any other structure when fully extended.
3. If the flag is flown from a flagpole, such flagpole shall be a minimum of four (4)
times the length of the flag but shall not exceed sixty feet (60') in height from
finished grade.
4. The flag is not displayed during hours of darkness unless directly and individually
illuminated.
5. Display of flags of the United States shall conform to all applicable Federal statutes
regarding the use and display of the United States flag.
F. Political. Political signs displayed on private property in accordance with an official
election or signs erected on behalf of candidates for public office, provided:
1. The total area of all such signs on a lot does not exceed sixteen (16) square feet.
2. The signs are removed within two (2) days after the election.
G. Banners. Banners applied to paper, plastic or fabric used to decorate or attract
attention to a business establishment or Village-sponsored event, provided:
1. The signs are displayed in conjunction with a grand opening celebration for a
period not to exceed thirty (30) days, or;
2. The sign are displayed in conjunction with a special sale for a period not to exceed
thirty (30) days, and;
3. The signs are displayed no more than two (2) times per calendar year per
establishment.
4. The banner shall be securely attached to the wall of the establishment, freestanding
signs or light poles on private property.
5. One banner, per street frontage, per establishment shall be permitted.
H. National Holiday. Signs or decorations customarily displayed in conjunction with a
national holiday for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days.
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I. Building Identification, Historical Markers. Nonilluminated signs constructed of metal
or masonry which are permanently affixed to buildings or structures for the purpose of
identifying the name of a building, date of erection or other historical information as
approved by the Director.
J. Notice Boards. Notice boards for public or religious institutions or other uses as
approved by the Director and primarily intended for pedestrians.
K. Windows. When permitted, window signs provided the total area of permanent and
temporary window signs occupy no more than forty percent (40%) of the window
surface area.
L. Garage, Yard Sale. Signs which advertise a private garage or yard sale on the lot on
which the sign is located, provided such signs are displayed no more than twice per year
per dwelling unit for a period not to exceed three (3) days.
M. Scoreboards. Scoreboards for athletic fields.
N. Religious Symbols. Religious symbols located on a building or lot used for organized
religious services.
O. Doors. Signs affixed to door glass which identify the name and/or address of an
establishment.
P. Contractors. Temporary signs for contractors, developers, architects, etc. not to exceed
ten (10) square feet. Signs shall be removed within thirty (30) days of approval of final
inspection. No more than one (1) sign shall be displayed per property.
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ARTICLE III
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION:
7.301. Prohibited Signs
7.305. Permitted On-Premises Signs
7.310. Permitted Outdoor Advertising Signs
7.315. Table of Sign Requirements
7.320. Bonuses
7.325. Special Signs
7.330. Special Use
7.335. Special Areas of Control
See. 7.301. Prohibited Signs. This Chapter shall be considered to be a positive document,
wherein signs not specifically permitted shall be prohibited. However, the following signs
are specifically prohibited in the Village:
A. Traffic Hazard. Any sign which is determined by the Director and the Chief of Police
of the Village to constitute a traffic hazard by reason of size, location, content, color
or type of illumination.
B. Public Right. Of-Way. Any sign which is located in or which extends over the public
right-of-way except as otherwise permitted under these regulations or authorized by the
Village Board.
C. Motion. Any sign which moves or assumes a non-stationary position by mechanical
means except as otherwise permitted under these regulations or authorized by the
Village Board, or under normal wind currents except flags, banners and barber poles
as regulated herein.
D. Portable. Portable signs as defined herein.
E. Painted Surfaces. Any sign painted directly on exterior building surfaces.
F. Light Poles. Signs on light poles of gas stations.
G. Roof Signs. Roof signs as defined in Section 7.'801.
See. 7.305. Permitted On-Premise Signs. The following signs shall be permitted in the
Village as accessory structures, subject to all applicable standards:
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A. Freestanding Signs.
1. Number.
a. No more than one freestanding sign per street frontage per lot shall be
permitted with the following exception: Freestanding identification signs in lieu
of wail signs shail be permitted in a multi-tenant office or industriai building
provided that each tenant has a separate at-grade entrance. The sign shall be
located at the entrance to the tenant's space. No sign shail exceed ten (10)
square feet or six feet (6') in height from finished grade.
b. Sign copy for single tenant freestanding sign shall contain no more than ten
(10) words and graphic elements greater than two (2) inches in height. For
changeable copy signage refer to Section 7.325.E of this Ordinance.
c. Sign copy for a multi-tenant freestanding sign may contain the names of no
more than six (6) tenants on a sign face for a retail or sen4ce business center.
A maximum of eighteen (18) words and graphic elements greater than two (2)
inches in height is permitted. Changeable copy signage shail not be combined
with multi-tenant signs.
d. Freestanding signs on properties with multiple street frontages shail be oriented
perpendicular to the primary street right-of-way. Such signs may be eligible
for a bonus in sign area as described in Section 7.320.
2. Height. No freestanding sign shail exceed twelve feet (12') in height from finished
grade. Berms shail not be considered finished grade. (See Section 7.805 for
illustration.)
3. Area. No freestanding sign shail exceed the maximum area as specified in the
Table of Sign Requirements, Table 2.
4. Business Identification. No freestanding sign shall be located closer than ten feet
(10') to a building with the exception that a smail freestanding ground sign four feet
(4') in height or less may be as close as three feet (3') from a building. No
freestanding sign shall be closer than one hundred feet (100') to another
freestanding sign on the lot except as otherwise permitted in this Section
(Temporary Signs.)
5. Setback. No freestanding signs shall be located closer than five feet (5') to an
exterior property line,nor closer to an interior property line that's specified in Table
1:
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Table 1. Minimum Distance from Interior Lot Line (Feet) (Measured Par011el to Front Property_ Line)
Street
Classification
Local/Collector Arterial
Signs not exceeding 50 square feet 30 40
in area or 5' in height, from
finished grade
Signs greater than 50 square feet in 50 60
area or 5' in height, from finished
grade
6. Time/temperature displa_vs may be permitted as part of a freestanding sign.
' 7.Distant Measurement. The location of a freestanding sign shall be measured as the
distance between the point of reference specified and the closest point on the sign.
8. Sight Triangle. Freestanding signs within any sight triangle shall be a maximum
of three (3') in height.
9. Overhang. No freestanding sign may overhang any part of a structure, parking or
loading space, driveway or maneuvering aisle.
10. Landscaping. All freestanding signs must be located in a landscaped area separated
and protected from vehicular circulation and parking areas. A minimum of two (2)
square feet of landscaping will be required for every one square foot of sign face
required. When located in a parking area, perimeter curbing is required.
11. Gas Station. Changeable copy used in a gas station freestanding sign shall be
included in the maximum sign area for allowable freestanding signs. Gas station
signs that incorporate the changeable copy price information into the main
identification sign face as required are eligible for a ten percent (10%) bonus in
sign area. (Reference Section 7.320.B.5 and Section 7.410.C).
B. Wall Signs.
1. Number. A maximum of one wall sign per street frontage per establishment shall
be permitted, except that:
a. The Director may authorize additional wall signs for distinct uses within an
establishment, provided there is a separate entrance from the exterior of the
building.
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b. One wall sign may be permitted on walls not facing a street, provided the wall
is at least fifty feet (50') from the nearest residential property line.
c. One wall sign may be permitted on walls not facing a street providing the wall
is adjacent to non-residential property and is visible from the street. The sign
may not encroach upon adjacent non-residential property except as provided
in Section 7.305.B.8.
d. Wall signs may be permitted which identify the rear entrance of an
establishment provided such sign does not exceed ten (10) square feet.
e. No wall signs will be allowed for individual tenants in a multi-story, multi-tenant
office-industrial building.
2. Method fo~ Calculating Sign Area. Each wall sign shall be located within a
permitted signable wall area. The sign area may be computed using a combination
of two (2) adjoining geometric shapes (circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, only.)
The vertical dimensions of such signable wall area shall not exceed six feet (6')
except that:
a. Director or his authorized representative may authorize additional vertical
dimensions if the wall sign is less than fifteen percent (15%) of the total area
of the wall and three hundred feet (300') from the viewing vantage point.
b. In no case shall the wall sign area exceed one hundred fifty (150) square feet.
3. Sign Limits. Signable wall area shall not extend above the roof line of a building
or beyond the premises of a particular establishment.
4. Percentage of Area. The area of a wall sign shall not exceed the maximum
percentage of signable wall area as specified in the Table of Sign Requirements,
Table 2 or ten (10) square feet, whichever is greater.
5. Pro_iections. No wall sign shall project from the building wall more than eighteen
inches (18").
6. Height. The maximum height of a wall sign shall be thirty feet (30') from finished
grade or two (2) stories, whichever is less.
7. Time/temperature displays may be permitted as part of a wall sign.
8. In instances where an exterior wall sign encroaches less than one (1) foot upon
abutting property, a sign permit may be permitted provided the abutting property
owner has granted written permission for the encroachment.
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C. Projecting Signs.
1. Number. Where permitted in the Table of Sign Requirements, Table 2, one
projecting sign per street frontage per establishment shall be permitted, provided
no other signs for such establishment are located on the same building wall.
2. Area. The area of a projecting sign may not exceed sixteen (16) square feet.
$. Height. No projecting sign shall extend above the roof line of the building on
which it is located or fourteen feet (14') from finished grade, whichever is less.
4. Pro_iection. No projecting sign shall project from the building wall more than four
feet (4').
5. Clearance. Projecting signs shall be located such that a clearance of eight feet (8')
is maintained from f'mished grade to the lower edge of the sign face.
D. Mansard Signs.
1. Number. Where permitted in the Table of Sign Requirements, one mansard sign
per street frontage per establishment shall be permitted, provided no wall sign is
directed to the same street frontage.
2. Location. A mansard sign shall be located on a decorative mansard and shall be
single-faced and be mounted directly vertical as a wall sign, with no visible
angle-iron, guy wires, braces or secondary supports and all hardware concealed.
No mansard sign shall extend above the highest point of the mansard structure.
3. Method for Calculating Sign Area. Each mansard sign shall be located within a
permitted signable wall area. Signable wall area for a mansard sign shall not
extend beyond the dimensions of the mansard on which the sign is located. The
vertical dimensions of signable wall area shall not exceed six feet (6').
4. Percentage of Area. The area of a mansard sign shall not exceed the maximum
percentage of signable wall area as specified in the Table of Sign Requirements.
5. Pro_iection. No mansard sign shall project from the building surface more than
eighteen inches (18") as measured at right angles from the lower edge of the sign.
E. Canopy (Marquee) Signs. Where permitted in the Table of Sign Requirements, canopy
signs shall be permitted subject to the following:
1. Location. Canopy signs may be mounted on the face of the canopy proper,
provided no wall signs are directed to the same street frontage. The area of such
canopy signs shall not exceed the maximum percentage of signable wall area as
specified in the Table of Sign Requirements. Signable wall area for canopy signs
shall not extend beyond the canopy face on which the sign is located.
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2. Under Canopy Signs. An additional canopy sign may be mounted on the underside
of a canopy, perpendicular to the building wall, provided no more than one such
sign is installed per establishment. The area of such canopy sign shall not exceed
four (4) square feet.
3. Method for Calculating Si_ma Area. Each canopy (marquee) sign shall be located
within a permitted signable wall area. The sign area may be computed using a
combination of two (2) adjoining geometric shapes (circles, squares, rectangles,
triangles, only). The vertical dimensions of such signable wall area shall not exceed
six feet (6') except that:
a. The Director or his authorized representative may authorize additional vertical
dimensions if the canopy (marquee) sign is less than f'rfteen percent (15%) of
the total area of the wall and three hundred feet (300') from the viewing
vantage point.
b. In no case shall the canopy (marquee) sign area exceed one hundred fifty (150)
square feet.
4. Projection. No canopy sign shall project more than eighteen inches (18") from the
canopy proper.
5. Clearance. A clearance of eight feet (8') shall be maintained from finished grade
to the lowest point on the sing.
6. Time/Temperature/Directional. These displays may be incorporated into a canopy
sign if located and technical requirements are met as outlined in Section 7.330.A.
F. Awning Signs. Individual letters words or symbols may be affixed or applied to any
awning surface, provided the area of the awning sign does not exceed the fifteen
percent (15%) of the exterior surface area of the awning.
G. Window Signs. Where permitted in the Table of Sign Requirements, Table 2, signs
may be permanently affixed or applied to window glass, provided the area of the
window sign does not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the window surface area,
exclusive of superficial borders and trim.
See. 7.310. Outdoor Advertising Signs. Outdoor advertising signs shall be permitted on
unimproved lots only, subject to the following:
A. Number. No more than one outdoor advertising sign per street frontage per lot shall
be permitted.
B. Area and Height. The area and height of outdoor advertising signs shall not exceed
the maximum specified in the Table of Sign Requirements, Table 2, for undeveloped
land.
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C. Distance to Residential. No outdoor advertising sign shall be located closer than one
hundred feet (100') to a residential property (lot) line.
D. Setback. No outdoor advertising signs shall be located closer than five feet (5') to an
exterior property line, nor closer than seventy five feet (75') to an interior property line.
Sec. 7.315. Table of Sign Requirements. All signs permitted in the Village shall be erected
in accordance with the specifications set forth in the Table of Sign Requirements, Table 2,
by land use category, street classification and proximity to residential zoning districts.
A. Signs located within one hundred feet (100') of a residential property (lot) line shall
conform to the standards specified in Table 2.1. All other signs shall conform to the
standards specified in Table 2.2.
B. "Land Use Category" shall refer to the classification of the primary use of the premises
on which a sign is located as set forth in Table 3. Establishments shall be classified by
the Director as residential, institutional/office, industrial, commercial or undeveloped
according to the appropriate land use code as determined by the Standard Land Use
Coding Manual published by the United States Department of Commercial, Bureau of
Public Roads in 1965, as amended.
C. "Street Classification'' shall refer to the functional classification of the street to which
a sign is directed. The functional classification of Village streets is set forth in the
Comprehensive Plan of the Village. The street classification for any sign shall be
determined by the Director. Signs directed to more than one street shall be considered
to be directed to the more intense classification.
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D. TABLE 3. LAND USE CLASSIFICATION
Land Use Cateaorv Standard r~ndUseCode
RESIDENTIAL
Group Quarters 1200
Other Residential (residential developments) 1900
INSTITUTIONAL/OFFICE
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate Services 6100
Business Services 6300
Professional Services 6500
Government Services 6700
Educational Services 6800
Miscellaneous Services (religious activities) 6900
Cultural Activities 7100
Parks 7600
INDUSTRIAL
Manufacturing 21-2900, 31-3400, 4100 3900
Transportation 4200
Communications 4700
Utilities 4800
Wholesale Trade 5100
Contract Construction Services 6600
Agricultural Related Activities 8200
COM~ERCIAL
Transient Lodgings 1500
Automobile Parking 4600
Retail Trade 52,5900
Personal Services 6200
Repair Services 6400
Public Assembly 7200
Amusements 7300
Recreational Activities 7400
UNDEVELOPED
Undeveloped and Unused Land Areas 9100
Sec. 7.320. Bonuses.
A. To encourage quality in sign design, the maximum sign areas for on-premise signs as
set forth in the Table of Sign Requirements, Table 2, may be increased by a specified
percentage for compliance with the design criteria listed below.
B. Bonuses shall be granted cumulatively for compliance with each of the criteria. The
percentage increase shall be based on the original maximum sign area allowed.
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1. Fifty percent (50%) bonus for any freestanding sign which is the only freestanding
sign on a lot on which more than one such sign would otherwise be permitted.
2. Fifteen percent (15%) bonus for any wall sign which consists of individual letters or
words mounted directly on the building surface.
3. Ten percent (10%) bonus for wall signs within a shopping center of more than three
(3) establishments; provided such signs use uniform or complementary background
and sign colors as approved by the Director.
4. Ten percent (10%) bonus for any wall sign if the background color matches the
building frieze color.
5. Ten percent (10%) bonus for gas stations that incorporate the price information into
the main identification sign face.
C. Any signs erected under the bonus provisions contained in this Section shall be
adequately and continuously maintained, including landscaping as provided herein, by
the tenant and owner and such successors and assigns as benefit from the bonus
provisions in this Section.
See. 7.325. Special Signs.
A. Directory Signs. Directory signs which identify only the names and locations of
occupants or uses within a building or on a lot shall be permitted in addition to other
signs permitted under these regulations.
1. No more than one directory sign per lot.
2. No directory sign shall exceed twenty (20) square feet in area or eight feet (8') in
height finished grade.
3. No directory sign shall be located closer than fifty feet (50') to any property line.
B. Gasoline Price Signs. Freestanding signs for automobile service stations which are
used for gasoline pricing information only, shall be permitted in addition to other signs
permitted under these regulations.
C. Logographs. In addition to other signs permitted under these regulations, wall-mounted
logographs shall be permitted provided:
1. No more than one logograph may be permitted per street frontage per
establishment, except that a logograph may also be permitted on a wall not facing
a street, provided the wall is visible from the street. The logograph may not
encroach upon adjacent property or abut a residence district except as provided in
Section 7.305.B.8.
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2. Such logograph shall not exceed twenty five (25) square feet in area.
3. The area of any logograph, when located on the same building elevation as a wall
sign, will be included in the maximum sign area.
D. Menu Board. One menu board for a drive-in or drive-through restaurant shall be
permitted in addition to other signs permitted under these regulations, provided such
sign does not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area or eight feet (8') in height from
finished grade.
E. Changeable Copy Signs. Manual changeable copy sJ~tm~ shall be permitted when
incorporated into a permitted wall or freestanding sign subject to all applicable
standards.
L Lettering used on manual changeable copy signs directed to local or collector streets
shall be at least three inches (3") in height.
2. Lettering used on manual changeable copy signs directed to secondary or major
arterial streets shall be at least six inches (6") in height.
3. Lettering used on manual changeable copy signs directed to pedestrians shall be one
inch (1") in height.
4. No more than six (6) permanent items of information will be allowed on a sign
which incorporates changeable copy. Two (2) lines of changeable copy are
permitted which shall be limited to less than fifty percent (50%) of the total area
of the sign face.
F. Flags. Flags of any business, corporation, institution or other public or private
organization shall be permitted in lieu of an otherwise permitted freestanding sign.
1. No such flag shall exceed fifty (50) square feet in area.
2. Such flags shall be flown from a pole which measures at least four (4) times the
length of the flag.
3. The pole shall not exceed sixty feet (60') in height from finished grade and shall
meet all location requirements specified for freestanding signs as measured from the
nearest edge of the flag when fully extended.
G. Temporary Signs.
1. Temporary. Lease/Sale, Business. Public or Institutional Signs. Temporary wall or
freestanding signs which contain information regarding the sale or lease of real
property, identification of a prospective business, public or institutional
organization, or identification of a construction project shall be permitted for a
period not to exceed one (1) year.
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a. No more than one temporary sign shall be displayed per street frontage per lot.
b. Temporary signs located within one hundred feet (100') of a residential property
(lot) line shall not exceed thirty two (32) square feet in area or eight feet (8')
in height from finished grade.
c. Temporary signs located more than one hundred feet (100') from any residential
property (lot) line shall not exceed fifty (50) square feet in area or ten feet (10')
in height from finished grade.
d. Temporary signs shall comply with all location requirements for wall or
freestanding signs with the exception that temporary freestanding signs will be
allowed closer than one hundred feet (100') to a permanent freestanding sign.
e. Temporary sale or lease signs may contain a maximum of fourteen (14) items
of information displayed on the sign allowing flexibility for developers, architects
and/or brokers name.
f. Temporary signs for sale, lease, rent, contractors, developers architects, etc. not
exceeding ten (10) square feet are exempt (Section 7.205).
2. Special Event/Grand Opening Signs:
a. A temporary special event sign (balloon or searchlight device) shall be permitted
for a total of four (4) events per year.
b. Ground/roof secured balloons shall be permitted provided they do not exceed
40 ft. maximum height and twenty (20) foot maximum diameter, and are limited
to spheroid shapes only. Such temporary balloon display shall be limited to a
maximum period of four (4) consecutive days.
c. Ground/vehicular mounted searchlights may be displayed on private property
for a maximum period of four (4) consecutive days.
d. Hours of Operation - Illumination of balloons and searchlight devices shall be
turned off between the hours of eleven o'clock (11:00) p.m. and seven o'clock
(7:00) a.m.
H. Directional Signs.
1. Signs which direct or regnlate the movement of pedestrians or vehicles into or within
a site provided:
a. No more than one such sign is displayed per driveway entrance; and such signs
displayed within the interior of the lot as approved by the Director.
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b. The sign does not exceed ten (10) square feet in area or six feet (6') in height
from finished grade for freestanding signs or fifteen feet (15') in height from
finished grade for wall signs.
c. No more than ten percent (10%) of the area of the sign is used to identify any
business, product or service.
I. Multi-Faced Signs: There shall be maximum of three sides to a multi-faced sign. The
sign area of said signs shall be no greater than the maximum allowed for a double-
faced free-standing sign.
See. 7.330. Special Use. The following signs may be allowed by special use permit issued
in accordance with the general objectives outlined in Section 7.101., Purpose, and Section
7.720, Standards for Special Use.
A. Electronic Message Centers.
1. The electronic message center shall serve the public convenience at that location
and shall be located no closer than six hundred feet (600') to another such device
directed to the same street.
2. The sign message shall periodically include public service information such as time,
temperature, date, weather, traffic conditions or other messages of interest to the
traveling public.
3. The electronic message center shall be designed and located such that the entire
sign message will be legible to the motorists viewing the sign.
4. The sign structure shall conform to all applicable regulations as specified in this
Chapter.
5. The sign message shall not consist of flashing, scintillating, chasing or animated
lights, and shall not change more frequently than once every two (2) seconds.
B. Development Identification Signs.
1. Size.
a. Single-family (attached and detached) subdivision signs shall be a maximum of
thirty five (35) square feet.
b. Business and multi-family residential signs shall be a maximum of seventy five
(75) square feet in area; provided, however, that in any development which
exceeds seventy five (75) acres, ah additional one square foot of sign area for
each additional acre of such development shall be allowed, to a maximum of one
hundred fifty (150) square feet in area.
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2. Height.
a. Single-family subdivision and multi-family residential signs shall be a maximum
of eight feet (8') in height from established grade.
b. Business signs shall not exceed twelve feet (12') in height from established grade
nor nine feet (9') from finished grade.
3. Location.
a. Single-family subdivision and multi-family residential signs shall be located a
minimum of five feet (5) from any property line.
b. Business signs shall be located a minimum of twelve feet (12') from any property
line. The distance from the property line shall increase one (1) foot for each
six and one quarter (6.25) sq. ft. of sign area Over seventy-five (75) square feet.
C. Large Scale Development. Application for a special use may be made for large scale
developments that increase the height and area of signs above the maximum standards
in this Ordinance, provided that the following minimum criteria and the standard for
special use set forth in Section 7.720 are met:
1. Street Frontage: 500 lineal feet of street frontage
2. Minimum Lot Size: Four (4) acres
3. Highwa.v Oriented Business: Business must qualify or be classified as a highway
oriented business serving a community or greater market base.
D. Equity Option. If specific standards or requirements contained in the Sign Ordinance
preclude a proposed sign from being erected and the applicant can meet the standards
for special use set forth in Section 7.720, a request can be made to the Sign Review
Board provided the applicant can propose an equitable alternative to the requirements
of this Chapter which:
1. Reduces the overall area of permitted or existing signs on the property and building;
or
2. Will not exceed the maximum permitted sign area and contain a minimum of one
bonus provision listed in Section 7.320.
3. Will not increase the total number of signs permitted on a single lot or unified
business center.
- 19-
E. Off-promise Business Identification Signs. The following standards shall apply:
1. The sign must direct attention to a business on a lot adjacent to the lot on which the
sign is located.
2. The sign must be located on a lot which is adjacent to a major arterial street.
3. The number of bee-standing signs permitted by this Article shall not be increased
by the placement of the off-premise sign.
4. The lot on which the business to be benefitted by the off-premise sign must not have
any frontage on an arterial street.
5. An easement or license must be granted allowing the placement of the off-premise
sign.
6. The sign may contain changeable copy as provided for in Section 7.325.E of this
Chapter.
Sec. 7.335. Special Area of Control. The Village Board may designate geographic areas
within the Village as a "special area of control" for purposes of these regulations. A special
area of control is an area in which special standards are drafted in order to incorporate a
wider variety of sign design.
A. The Director shall prepare a map showing all designated areas of special control.
B. Areas of special control shall include the following:
Central Business District. In the Central Business District Special Area of Control
(Exhibit 1 ).
Signs permitted under these regulations may extend over the public right-of-way as
follows:
Projecting Signs: 4 feet or to within 2 feet of the curb line, whichever is less (See
Section 7.305.C).
Canopies or Awnings: The lesser of 5 feet or to within 2 feet of the curb line; provided
no supporting posts, columns, or braces extend beyond the
property line.
- 20 -
ARTICLE IV
SIGN DESIGN
SECTION:
7.401. General Principles for Sign Design
7.405. Specific Guidelines by Design Element
7.410. Additional Guidelines for Special Signs and Situations
See. 7.401. General Prlneiples For Sign Design.
A. The Legibility of Signs. Signs shall be adequately legible under the circumstances in
which they are primarily seen. The legibility of signs is related to:
1. The speed at which they are viewed;
2. The context and surroundings in which they are seen;
3. The design, colors, and contrast of the sign copy and sign face.
The design of the sign including copy, lettering size and style, and colors shall logically
relate to the predominant speed of traffic which will see it. Signs shall legibly convey
their messages without being distracting or unsafe to motorists reading them.
Not This
This
- 22 -
B. The Relationship of Signs to their Surroundings. Signs shall not detract from the
general appearance and architectural character of their surroundings including streets,
buildings, and other signs in the area. Signs shall not be designed to compete with one
another but shall contribute to the composite legibility and attractiveness of streets
within the Village.
Not This
This
C. The Relationship of Signs to the Buildings and Sites they Identify. Signs shall be an
integral architectural element of the buildings and sites that they identify and their
design shall be. consistent with, and not detract from, the overall architectural concept
of their site.
D. The Quality and Craftsmanship of Signs. signs shall be carefully crafted, durable, and
consistent with the quality and permanence of the buildings and sites that they identify.
E. The Maintenance of Signs. All signs shall be regularly maintained and repaired or
replaced in response to the aging and weathering of their materials.
Sec. 7.405. Specific Guidelines by Design Element.
A. Scale and Proportion.
1. Freestanding Signs. The scale of freestanding signs shall be compatible with the
building or buildings they identify and the signs shall not be of such a size that they
visually overpower the buildings on the site.
2. Building Signs (signs attached to or part of a building or structure on the site other
than freestanding signs). Building signs shall be harmonious in scale and proportion
with the building facade they are mounted to and with the architectural elements
of the building such as windows, cornices, sign friezes, and bays. Signs that are part
of building elements such as walls, windows, canopies, awnings, and mansard roofs
shall not visually overpower those elements nor detract from the composition of the
building facade.
_...,,mlm llllllllllltllllllm]llltl lllllllllllllllillllllllllilllllll lllll
illllll[-'s Ellilllllllllllllltlflllllllfllgtllllllllllllllllll
B. Shape and Silhouette.
1. Freestanding Signs. The silhouette and outlined shape of freestanding signs shall be
simple and compatible with the building to which it relates. Signs of excessively
complicated outline or composed of many different connected shapes are
unacceptable. Freestanding signs should have an attractive combination of pole
skirts, landscaping, berms and/or similar treatments to provide a visual base for the
sign and integrate the sign into the overall architecture, landscaping, and topography
on the site. Brick, wood, stone walls, or properly treated metal will be acceptable
materials to be used for pole skirts and must be compatible with the material used
in the sign. :Freestanding signs may not obstruct or limit the sight distance of
motorists within any sight triangle as defined in the Code.
Not This
This
2. Building Signs. The silhouettes and outlined shapes of building signs shall be
compatible with the building facade they are mounted on. Shapes that disrupt the
architectural order and composition of a building facade are unacceptable.
- 25 -
C. Sign Placement and Height.
1. Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs shall not be placed close against a building
so that they obscure important architectural features such as entrances, display
windows, or decorative cornices when viewed from the street.
Not This
2. Building Signs. Sign placement on a building shall respect and not disrupt the
architectural composition of the building facade. No part of any sign should overlap
or cover the architectural edges and lines of the building such as cornices, eaves,'
window and door frames, columns, decorative elements, and corners.
NOt This
This
3. Mansard Signs. Mansard signs shall consist of raised individual letter or logographs
mounted directly to the mansard surface, or shall be mounted in a manner that is
consistent with the architecture of the building facade and roof with no visible
brackets, braces, angle irons or secondary supports. Mansard signs that project out
from the surface of the mansard shall be enclosed on all sides perpendicular to the
sign face with a treatment to match the color, texture, and appearance of the
mansard material.
- 26 -
D. Sign Copy.
1. Sign copy shall be brief enough to be legible under the circumstances and speed at
which it will be seen and should be composed in proportion to the area of the sign
face.
This
2. Signs, mher than changeable copy and multi-tenant retail and service center signs, shall
have no more than ten items of information that are greater than or equal to two inches
(2") in height on the sign face. For the purposes of these guidelines, all individual
words, symbols, figures, numbers, or illustrations excluding punctuation marks shall be
considered items of information.
MAXIMUM OF TEN
ITEMS 2" OR LARGER
NO UMIT TO THE NUMBER OF
ITEMS OF INFORMATION
SMALLER THAN 2" INCHES
- 27 -
3. The use of simple pictures, symbols, or logographs is encouraged as a replacement
for words that describe the name or nature of a business or use.
This Not This
E. Lettering.
1. Lettering styles on signs shall be legible under the circumstances and speed at which
they will be seen.
2. Simple and easily readable lettering styles shall primarily be used and specialized,
decorative lettering styles shall be adequately legible and compatible with the
architectural concept for the property.
3. The number of different lettering styles on a sign or on a series of signs within a
complex of buildings shall be minimized and shall relate to the overall architectural
concept for the property.
4. Lettering and copy shall not be crowded onto the surface of a sign or building
surface and shall be composed to leave ample space around the copy to preserve
legibility.
This ~~1-~ ~-, . ~ ,
Not This
F. Materials and Construction.
1. The materials and textures of signs shall have good architectural character and shall
not be inconsistent with nor detract from the overall design concept of the site and
building of which it is a part.
neon letters on metal raceway incompatible with
natural wood finishes on facade
Not This
routed wood sign compatible with natural
wood finishes on facade
This
2. Natural materials such as wood, stone, or brick are encouraged for signs.
3. Signs shall be designed for permanence and their materials and construction shall
not detract from the permanence of the buildings they identify.
- 29 -
Color.
1. The visual appearance of signs on a street shall be harmorLious, orderly, and
reinforce the architectural character of the street. Colors, or combinations of .colors
that are harsh and disrupt the visual harmony and order of the street are
unacceptable.
Not This
2. Bold, bright, or harsh colors shall be used sparingly, as accents on a sign, rather than
as predominant colors. Strong contrasts of tone or color shall be avoided except
when necessary for legibility.
3. Visible frames, supports, or structural elements of signs that are not part of the sign
face shall be of subdued coloring, or. if made of brick, stone, or wood. shall be of
natural colors compatible with the natural finish of the material.
H. Illumination.
1. Signs that are illuminated shall be designed to be equally attractive whether
illuminated or not.
2. The intensity of illumination for the sign shall not be excessively bright and shall be
even over the face of the sign with no bright spots.
- 30 -
3. Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs shall be illuminated internally or by
concealed fixtures so that no reflectors, extension arms, or Qxtures are visible from
the street.
Not This This
4. Building Signs. Signs that are part of a building shall have internal lighting or a
concealed means of illuminatiOn. The only exception shall be decorative fixtures
that are consistent with the style of the building and do not disrupt the order and
composition of the building facades.
· ii.
Not This This
5. To maintain legibility, the illumination of letters and graphics shall be substantially
t ' i '
brighter han the dlunnnatlon of the background on a sign face.
r31 -
I. Landscaping.
1. Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs shall be landscaped at their base in a
method harmonious with the landscape concept for the whole site. Landscaping
shall form an attractive, dense cluster at the base of the sign that is equally attractive
in winter and summer. A minimum of two (2) square feet of landscaping will be
required for every one square foot of sign face. The landscape area shall be curbed
at the perimeter when the sign is incorporated into a hard-surfaced parking area.
landscaping too sparse and poor
visual base for sign
Not This
berm aqd foundation plantings to relate
to building treatment
This
- 32 -
Sec. 7.410. Additional Guidelines for Special Signs and Situations.
A. Signs With Company Logos.
1. Company logos or identification logosof a pri)totypical design on signs shall conform
to all the provisions in these guidelines and shall stay within the spirit and intent of
these guidelines regarding the visual order and restraint of the street environment.
Not This
This
- 33 -
Signs in Shopping Centers and Other Unified Business Centers.
1. There shall be an architectural harmony and unity of signs within a unified business
center on a property. Sign type, color scheme, lettering, size, placement of the sign,
number of the lines of copy and illumination shall be coordinated and shall be
compatible with the architecture of the center. A sign proposal containing all of
these factors in scaled elevation drawings shall be submitted for approval to the
Planning Department.
2. Freestanding Signs. Freestanding si~ identifying shopping centers and other
unified business centers shall identify the name of the center or complex and no
more than six (6) separate tenants per sign face w~thin the complex or center.
3. Building Signs, Building signs shall be in harmony with the overall architectural
concept for the site and be compatible with each other and with the building
facades. Separate business signs shall be located unfform, ly on a sign frieze, canopy
or other appropriate architectural element consistent with the architectural concept
for the center as a whole and shall be adequately separated from one another.
This
Not This
4. All unified shopping and business centers shall submit a written sign criteria that
will be used to carry out the intent of the sign proposal required in Item #1 of this
Subsection. Upon approval by the Director, this criteria shall be used in addition
to these guidelines to evaluate the design of all new signs in the business center.
- 34 -
C. Changeable Copy Signs.
1. Changeable copy may be incorporated into a single tenant sign face when the
changeable component of the sign face occupies less than half the total area of that
sign face.
2. Changeable copy on a sign face shall be composed in proportion to the entire sign
face with a border or similar treatment around the changeable copy to integrate it
into the sign face.
Not This This
This Not This
3. Lettering of changeable copy shall be of a single, simple, easily legible lettering style
and shall be of uniform color and size throughout the changeable copy portion of
the sign. (See Section 7.325.E for lettering size and item total information).
- 35 -
ARTICLE V
ILLUMINATION AND MAINTENANCE
SECTION:
7.501. Illumination
7.505. Maintenance
Sec. 7.501. lllumination. Any sign permitted under these regulations may be illuminated,
provided such illumination complies with the following:
A. Hours of Operation. With the exception of electronic message centers, all illuminated
signs within one hundred feet (100') of any residential property (lot) line shall be
turned off between the hours of eleven o'clock (11:00) P.M. and seven o'clock (7:00)
A.M. unless the establishment is engaged in the operation of its business with employees
on the premises during such period.
B. Installation or Application. Illumination shall be installed or applied such that:
1. The light source is contained within the sign and is visible only through a translucent
surface or recessed into the sign structure; or
2. The light source is external to the sign and is directed to and concentrated on the
sign; or
3. The light source is supplied by neon tubing.
C. Glare. Illumination shall be prevented from striking or causing a glare on the street or
nearby properties.
D. Protection of Light Source. Floodlights, gooseneck reflectors or other external sources
of illumination shall be contained within a protective casing.
E. Motion. Illumination shall be constant in intensity and color and shall not consist of
flashing, animated, chasing or scintillating lights. Electronic message centers, as defined
herein, shall not be considered "flashing" signs for the purposes of these regulations.
Sec. 7.505. Maintenance.
A. The owner of a sign and the owner of the premises on which such sign is located shall
be jointly and severally liable to maintain such sign, including any illumination sources
in neat and orderly condition and good working order at all times, and to prevent the
development of any rust, corrosion, rotting or other deterioration in the physical
appearance or safety of such sign.
B. The owner of any sign regulated by this Chapter shall be required to have properly
painted all parts and supports of the said sign when necessary unless the same are
galvanized or othenvise treated to prevent rust or deterioration.
- 36 -
ARTICLE VI
ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION:
7.601. Permits
7.605. Submission Requirements
7.610. Permit Fees
7.615. Standards for Review and Approval
7.620. Indernnlfication
7.625. Inspection
7.630. Abandoned Signs
7.635. Nonconforming Signs
7.640. Illegal Sign (Both Temporary and Permanent)
Sec. 7.601. Permits.
A. Unless otherwise exempted under this Chapter, no sign shall be erected, altered or
relocated without a permit for such sign, issued by the Village with the approval of the
Director as required by this Chapter.
B. No permit shall be required for repainting, cleaning and other normal maintenance or
repair of a sign structure for which a permit has been previously issued.
C. Prior to the filing of an application for a sign permit the staff is available to meet with
business owner, property owner, and/or sign company to review any concepts.
See. 7.605. Submission Requirements. The following requirements are necessary to submit
for review:
A. All signs
1. Completed Application(s). One separate, originally signed sign permit application
for each sign you are requesting.
2. Construction Specifications ( 4 Copies). Plans and specifications showing the
method of attachment of the sign to the building or ground, including footing details
for any freestanding sign.
3. Wind Stress Calculations ( 4 Copies). All design plans for new, remounted or
relocated permanent freestanding signs shall include a statement by a licensed sign
company that the sign and all components have been designed to withstand a
minimum of thirty (30) pounds per square feet of wind load. Inspection Services
may determine that structural calculations for wind loading are necessary for safety.
- 37 -
B. Additional Requirements For Non-freestanding Signs Only
1. Site Plan or Survey ( 4 Copies). A scaled survey or site plan of the property on
which the sign will be located showing all of the following information:
a. Scale, North Arrow and address of the site.
b. All property lines.
c. Location of any existing or proposed buildings on the property and any existing
signs on the property.
d. Location of proposed sign with distance to property lines and other buildings
indicated.
2. Building Elevation ( 4 Copies). A scaled drawing of the face of the building to
which the sign will be attached showing the following information:
a. Ail windows, doors, canopies, awnings, roof lines and other architectural
elements on the building face, indicating building materials.
b. Ail dimensions and signable area of the actual wall, window, mansard roof,
canopy, or awning on which the sign will be mounted.
c. Location and size of the sign on the building face including height above grade
and projection from the mounting surface.
3. Si_ma Elevation ( 4 copies, one of which is colored). A scaled elevation of the face
of the proposed sign showing the following information:
a. Description of sign and frame including materials and method of attachment.
b. All specifications of the sign face including size and color of all lettering,
graphics, border, and backgrounds. NOTE: Only one copy need show the colors.
Colors must be described with actual color samples, Pantone reference numbers,
or color photos of identical signs.
4. Site Photo(s) (1 Copy). Color photograph(s) that adequately shows the entire
building face on which the sign will be located. For shopping center signs, the
photograph(s) should adequately describe other existing signs in the center.
C. Additional Requirements For Freestanding Signs Only
1. Site Plan ( 4 Copies). A scaled site plan of the property on which the sign will be
located showing all dimensions and containing all of the following information:
- 38 -
a. Scale, North Arrow, and address of site
b. All property lines, driveways, and parking areas, and easements on the property.
e. Location of all existing and proposed buildings on the site and any existing
freestanding sigm already on the property.
d. Location of the proposed freestanding sign with all distances to property lines,
buildings, and other freestanding signs indicated.
e. Location and extent of any existing or proposed landscaping at the base_of the
sign including plant species, number, size, and spacing.
2. Sign Elevation ( 4 copies, one of which is colored). A scaled elevation of each face
of the proposed sign showing the following information:
a. All dimensions of the sign and supports including height above grade.
b. Description of materials, colors, and finishes of all surfaces including supports.
c. All specifications of the sign face including size and color of letters, graphics,
borders, and backgrounds. NOTE: Only one copy need show the colors. Colors
must be described with actual color samples, Pantone reference numbers, or
color photos of identical signs.
3. Site Photo(s) (1 Copy). Color photograph(s) of the site adequately showing the area
where the sign will be located and its relationship to adjacent streets and all
buildings that are on the site.
D. Additional Requirements for Illuminated Signs
1. Electrical Wiring Diagram ( 4 Copies).
Sec. 7.610. Permit Fees. Every applicant, before being granted a permit hereunder shall
pay to the Village the following fee for each sign structure:
A. Fees that shall be charged for the review and approval of permits are as follows:
1. A minimum of twenty five dollars ($25.00) non-refundable deposit shall be submitted
with the permit application. The deposit shall be applied toward the total permit fee
upon approval.
2. Freestanding signs (except temporary signs): One hundred dollars ($100.00).
3. Temporary signs: Fifty dollars ($50.00)
- 39 -
4. Wall, mansard marquee signs: Seventy five dollars ($75.00).
5. Directional signs: Twenty five dollars ($25.00).
6. Off-premise advertising signs: Two hundred dollars ($200.00).
7. Awning and canopy signs: Fifty dollars ($50.00).
8. Special Event (balloon, searchlight) signs: Fifty dollars ($50.00).
B. An improvement guarantee shall be deposited with the Village to guarantee completion
of required alterations, site improvements, and landscaping for freestanding signs.
An escrow deposit shall be submitted with the sign permit fee to guarantee any
required site improvements associated with a freestanding sign. The improvement costs
shall be estimated with the permit request and approved by the Planning Department.
The escrow shall be in an amount not less than the estimate for any site improvement,
including but not limited to: curbing, asphalt removal, or landscaping required in
conjunction with a freestanding sign. The escrow shall be returned upon satisfactory
completion of the site improvements determined by a field inspection.
Sec. 7.615. Standards for Review and Approval. Ail sign permit applications will be
reviewed according to the physical parameters and design standards included within this
Chapter. Upon receipt of a complete application, the staff is required to rule within five
(5) working days. Delays can be minimized by complete submittals of necessary materials
and adequate advance communication of intentions. The permit will be issued if such
application conforms with the standards of this Chapter and other Village Ordinances.
A. If the work authorized under said permit has not been completed within one year
following the permit issue date, said permit shall become null and void.
B. If any sign is erected, altered or relocated after the date of adoption of this Chapter
and without receipt of a permit, the specified permit fee shall be doubled. However,
such payment shall not relieve any person of any other requirement or penalties
prescribed in this Chapter.
Sec. 7.620. Indemnification.
A. Every applicant for a permit for a sign which will extend over or be located within a
public right-of-way shall be required to submit the following:
1. If sign extends one foot (1') or less into the right-of-way an indemnification/hold
harmless agreement is required. No Board action is required.
- 40 -
2. If sign extends more than one foot (1') into right-of-way, an indemnification/hold
harmless agreement and a liability insurance policy issued by an insurance company
authorized to do business in the State with limits of liability of not less than five
hundred thousand dollars ($500,000.00) of combined property damage, personal
injury liability coverage, with the Village, its officers, agents and employees named
as additional parties insured is required. Such policy shall be maintained in force
throughout the life of the permit, and if at any time it shall not be in full force, the
permit shall become null and void. Board action will be required to approve the
encroachment.
B. Persons engaged in the business of erecting, repairing or maintaining signs shall file with
the Director of Inspection Services a bond in the penal sum of ten thousand dollars
($10,000.00) with a responsible surety company as surety thereon, said bond to be
approved as to form by the Village Attorney. Said bond shall indemnify the Village and
its officials for the full period of time provided for by the statute of limitations of the
State, for any and all loss, cost, expense or liability of any kind or nature whatsoever,
which said Village or its officials may suffer or be put to, or which may be recovered
from it or them by reason of the issuance of such permit.
Sec. 7.625. Inspection. The Director shall annually, or at other times as he deems
necessary, inspect each sign for which a permit is required, for the purpose of ascertaining
whether the sign is structurally unsafe or insecure or is not in compliance with the provisions
of this Chapter.
A. All signs for which a permit has been issued shall bear a label issued by the Director
which identifies the permit number under which the sign was erected, altered or
relocated.
B. If the Director shall find that any sign regulated herein is structurally unsafe or insecure,
or has been constructed or erected in violation of the provisions of this Article, he shall
give written notice to the permittee thereof. If the permittee fails to remove or alter
the sign so as to comply with the standards herein set forth, within ten (10) days after
such notice, such sign may be removed or altered to comply by the Director at the
expense of the permittee or owner of the lot upon which it is located. The Director
shall refuse to issue a permit to any permittee or owner who refuses to pay costs so
assessed. The Director may cause any sign which is in immediate peril to persons or
property to be removed summarily and without notice, with the costs incidental to such
removal at the owner's expense.
Sec. 7.630. Abandoned Signs.
A. Any sign which is located on property which becomes vacant or any sign which pertains
to a use or activity which no longer applies shall be deemed to have been abandoned.
B. Any sign which has been deemed abandoned shall be removed, or have the face
replaced with a weatherproof, blank face by the owner, agent or person having the
-41 -
beneficial use of the building, structure or lot upon which such sign is located within
ten (10) days after the sign is abandoned. If such sign is not removed, or face replaced
within ten (10) days of being abandoned, the Director shall give written notification to
the owner of such failure and, ten (10) days hence, shall cause removal of such sign
with any expense incident thereto to be paid by orbe recoverable from the owner of
the building, structure or lot upon which the sign is located; and said expense shall be
a lien upon such premises until paid.
C. The cost of such sign removal incurred by the Village is recoverable from the owner
or owners of such real estate and is a lien thereon, which lien is superior to all prior
existing liens and encumbrances, except taxes; prodded, that within sixty (60) days after
such sign removal, the Village who incurred such cost and expense shall file notice of
lien of such cost and expense incurred in the office of the Recorder of Deeds of Cook
County or in the office of the Registrar of Titles of Cook County, if the real estate
affected is registered under the Torrens system.
1. The notice must consist of a sworn statement setting out:
a. A description of the real estate sufficient for identification thereof;
b. The amount of money representing the cost and expense incurred; and
c. The date or dates when the cost and expense was incurred by the Village or by
the lien holder of record.
2. Upon payment of the cost and expense by the owner of or persons interested in the
.property after notice of lien has been filed, the lien shall be released by the Village
in whose name the lien has been filed and the release may be filed of record as in
the case of filing notice of lien.
3. Suit to foreclose this lien must be commenced within three (3) years after the date
of filing notice of lien.
Sec. 7.635. Nonconforming Signs. Any freestanding sign lawfully existing as of November
5, 1986 exceeding twelve (12) feet but not more than eighteen (18) feet in height, may be
cont'mued or maintained subject to the following:
A. The owner or beneficial user of any nonconforming sign shall maintain such sign in
good condition and repair, provided that said sign shall not be changed or altered in
any manner including face changes; shall not be changed to another nonconformity;
shall not be expanded; shall not be structurally altered to prolong its useful life; or shall
not be moved in whole or part to any other location where it would remain
nonconforming.
B. Any nonconforming sign which is damaged or destroyed by any means to the extent of
fifty percent (50%) of its present value shall be terminated immediately.
- 42 -
C. Any such non-conforming sign may be continued until November 5, 1996. Thereafter,
such sign shall be made to conform by means of alteration or removal, excepting those
granted variances or special uses after January 1, 1991.
'Sec. 7.640. Illegal Sign (Both Temporary and Permanent). A sign installed without a
permit and/or in conflict with the provisions of this Chapter is a violation of the Sign Code
and subject to penalty fees of not less than twenty five dollars ($25.00) or more than two
hundred dollars ($200,00) per day of violation. Any permit fees associated with an illegal
sign shall be paid at twice the normal fee requirements.
- 43 -
ARTICLE VII
APPEALS, VARIATIONS AND SPECIAL USES
SECTION:
7.701. Scope of Appeals, Variations and Special Uses
7.705. Notice Requirements
7.710. Processing, Notice and Hearing
7.715. Action on Appeal, Variation or Special Use
7.720. Standards for Special Use
7.725. Standards for Variations
Sec. 7.701. Scope of Appeals, Variations, Special Use and Text Amendment. An appeal
from a staff decision made in interpreting, applying and/or enforcing the regulations
contained in this Chapter may be taken to the Sign Review Board. A variation may be
requested from the height, area, and minimum distance requirement contained in this
Chapter, provided that no variation shall exceed the maximum height, sign area, and
distance requirements by more than twenty five percent (25%). A special use may be
requested to allow for an electronic message center, development identification signs,
nonconforming wall signs and the equity option and off-premise business identification signs.
The Sign Review Board shall hear text amendment requests and make a recommendation
to the Village Board for final action.
Sec. 7.705. Notice Requirement.
A. An applicant shall file notice of such appeal, variation, special use or text amendment
forms provided by the Director, who shall forward a copy without delay to the Village
Clerk for processing and notice.
B. The notice shall be published in the local newspaper not less than five ($) days prior
to a public hearing before the Sign Review Board.
C. The notice of appeal, variation, special use or text amendment shall contain the
following information, as well as such additional information as may be prescribed by
the Sign Review Board.
1. A legal description of the subject property.
2. The commonly known location (address) of the subject property.
3. A brief statement of the nature of the requested appeal or variation.
4. The name(s) and address(es) of the legal and/or beneficial owner(s) of the property
for which the application~is requested and the written approval from the property
owner to apply for such request.
- 44^- ,~ ~
5. The name(s) and address(es) of the petitioner(s).
6. The name of the legal representative of the petitioner, ff any.
D. At the time of filing, the notice of appeal, variation, special use or text amendment
shall be accompanied by such plats and exhibits as may be reasonably necessary for a
proper determination of the question presented for review.
E. Fees:
Appeal $250.00
Variation $200.00
Special Use $200.00
Text Amendment $250.00
Sec. 7.710. Processing, Notice and Heating.
A. Upon receipt by the Village a copy of the notice of appeal, variation, special use or
text amendment that has been duly filed with the Director, the Village Clerk shall
assign the case and/or docket number to the petition and shall maintain a file for such
petition, which file shall be open to the public for inspection during regular business
hours. All documents pertinent to the case (application, evidence, exhibits, transcript
or record of proceedings, etc.) shall be placed in said file by the Village Clerk.
Sec. 7.715. Action on Appeal, Variation or Special Use.
A. The Sign Review Board shall, within fifteen (15) days after the hearing, decide the
appeal made from such order, requirement, decision or determination made by the
Village staff in the administration and enforcement of this Chapter. The Sign Review
Board shall use the physical parameters and design standards included in this Chapter
as the standards for their decision.
B. The Sign Review Board shall, within fifteen (15) days after the hearing, decide the
variation or special use requested from the standards and/or general objectives
contained in this Chapter. The Sign Review Board shall recommend action to the
Village Board on text amendment requests within fifteen (15) days of the hearing. The
Sign Review Board shall use the physical parameters and design standards included in
this Chapter as the standards for their decision or recommendation.
C. No permit shall be issued during the pendency of an appeal, variation, special use or
text amendment before the Sign Review Board, nor while litigation is pending in any
court challenging the Village's actions, nor while any appeal, variation, special use or
text amendment is pending from any court's action overriding or reversing the Village's
actions, nor during the time within which such appeal from a court's action can lawfully
be taken.
- 45 -
D. Nothing in this Section shall be construed as abolishing any other regulation restricting
the issuance of permits or the construction or alteration of buildings but is in addition
thereto and declared to be an emergency measure and necessary for the immediate
preservation of the public peace, health, safety and general welfare.
Sec 7.720. Standards for Special Use.
A. The Sign Review Board shall not recommend or grant a special use unless it shall make
findings of fact based upon evidence presented at the hearing in any given case that:
1. The special use will serve the public convenience at the location of the subject sign;
or that the establishment, maintenance or operation of the special use will not be
detrimental to or endanger the visibility, public safety, comfort or general welfare.
2. The sign(s) will be in harmony and scale with the architecture of the building(s) in
this development and with other signs in the neighborhood.
3. The special use will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property in
the immediate vidnlty of the subject property for the purposes already permitted;
nor substantially diminish and impair other property valuations within the
neighborhood; nor impair the visibility of adjacent signs.
4. The nature, location and size of the sign(s) involved with the establishment of the
special use will not impede, substantially hinder, or discourage the installation of
signs on adjacent property in accordance with the Sign Ordinance.
5. The special use shall in all other respects conform to the applicable regulations of
the Sign Ordinance except as such regulations may, in such instance, be modified
as provided by this Chapter.
6. The plight of the owner is due to unique circumstances and the proposed special use
will not merely serve as a convenience to the petitioner, but will alleviate some
demonstrable and unusual hardship which will result if the strict letter of the
regulations of this Chapter were carried and which particular hardship or practical
difficulty is not generally applicable to other comparable signs or properties.
B. The Sign Review Board may impose such conditions and restrictions upon the subject
sign, the location, the construction and design, and use of the property benefited by such
special use as may be necessary or appropriate to comply with the foregoing standards
and to protect adjacent property and improve property values and the quality of
development.
C. The terms of the special use so granted shall be specifically set forth in a conclusion or
statement which is supported from the findings of fact of the Sign Review Board. The
subject property for which the special use has been granted shall not be used in violation
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of the specific terms and the findings of fact unless such use is allowed by further
findings of fact or additional approval, pursuant to additional hearings or appeal
therefor.
Sec. 7.725. Standards for Variations.
A. The Sign Review Board shall not recommend or grant a variation unless it shall make
findings of fact based upon evidence presented at the hearing in any given case that:
1. The sign in question cannot reasonably identify the establishment if permitted to be
used only under the conditions allowed by the regulations of the Sign Ordinance.
2. The plight of the owner is due to unique circumstances and the proposed variation
will not merely serve as a convenience to the petitioner, but will alleviate some
demonstrable and unusual hardship which will result if the strict letter of the
regulations of this Chapter were carried out and which particular hardship or
practical difficulty is not generally applicable to other comparable signs or
properties.
3. The alleged hardship has not been created by any person presently having a
proprietary interest in the subject sign or (property).
4. The proposed variation will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or
injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood.
5. The proposed variation will not impair visibility to the adjacent property, increase
the danger of traffic problems or endanger the public safety.
6. The proposed variation will not alter the essential character of the neighborhood;
and
7. The proposed variation is in harmony with the spirit and intent of this Chapter.
B. The Sign Review Board may impose such conditions and restrictions upon the subject
sign and property, the location, the construction, design and use of the sign benefited
by such a variation as may be necessary or appropriate to comply with the foregoing
standards and to protect adjacent property and property values, and ensure traffic safety.
Sec. 7.750. Standards for Text Amendments
A. When a text amendment is proposed, the Sign Review Board shall make findings based
upon the evidence presented to it in each specific case with respect to, but not limited
to, the following matters:
1. The degree to which the proposed amendment has general applicability within the
Village at large and not intended to benefit specific property.
- 47 -
2. The consistency of the proposed amendment with the objectives of this Ordinance
and the intent of the applicable sign regulation.
3. The degree to which the proposed amendment would create non-conformity.
4. The d.e.gree to which the proposed amendment would make this Ordinance more
permissive.
5. The consistency of the proposed amendment with other plans and ordinances
regulating property development.
6. The degree to which the proposed amendment is consistent with Village policy as
established in previous rulings on petitioners involving similar circumstances.
- 48 -
ARTICLE VIII
DEFINITIONS AND ILLUSTRATIONS
SECTION:
7.801. Definitions
7.805. Illustrations
Sec. 7.801. Definitions.
APPEARANCE: The outward aspect visible to the public.
Sympathetic, or fitting, to the context of the site
and the whole community.
APPROPRIATE: The basic aesthetic idea of a building, or group
of buildings or structures, including the site and
landscape development, which produces the
architectural character.
ARCHITECTURAL The characteristic form and detail, as of buildings
CONCEPT: of a particular historic period.
ARCHITECTURAL Having qualities that arouse interest and pleasure
STYLE: in the observer.
ATrRACTIVE: A roof-like structure made of doth which projects
from a building for the purpose of shielding a
doorway or window.
AWNING: A temporary sign applied to or constructed of
paper, plastic or fabric of any kind with or
without frame, used to identify or attract
attention to a location, object, institution, product
service or business. Flags of nations, states,
political subdivisions, business or institutions shall
not be considered banners for purposes of this
Chapter.
BANNER: A permanent hood, awning or roof-like
construction which projects from a building wall
for the purpose of providing shelter or protection
from the weather.
- 49 -
CANOPY Any sign that is fastened, affixed, or attached to
(MARQUEE): and erected parallel to a canopy or marquee in
such a manner that the canopy (marquee)
becomes the supporting structure or forms the
background surface of the sign, and which does
not project more than eighteen (18") from the
canopy (marquee).
CHANGEABLE Any sign that is designed or used so that
COPY SIGN: characters, letters or symbols can be manually
changed or re-arranged without altering the
surface of the sign.
CODE: The Village Code of Mount Prospect, Illinois.
DEVELOPMENT Harmony in the appearance of a majority of
IDENTIFICATION external design features, including form, colors,
SIGN: materials, textures, scale, and landscaping in the
same vicinity.
DEVELOPMENT A sign which identifies the name of a
IDENTIFICATION development consisting of at least five (5)
SIGN: business establishments or a single-family
subdivision when the development comprises a
minimum of thirty (30) acres.
DIRECTOR: The Director of Planning of the Village of
Mount Prospect, and/or his duly authorized
agent(s).
DIRECTORY A sign which identifies only the names and
SIGN: locations of occupants or uses within a building
or on a lot.
ELECTRONIC Any sign which uses changing lights to form a
MESSAGE sign message or messages wherein the sequence
CENTER: of messages and the rate of change is
electronically programmed and may be modified
by electronic processes.
ESTABLISHMENT: Any institution, business or industrial activity that
is the sole occupant of one or more buildings
having frontage on at least one public street, or
- 50 -
Any institution, business or industrial activity that
occupies a portion of a building such that the
activity is a separate and distinct business from
the other activities within the building.
FLAG: A construction of fabric, plastic or paper
depicting through symbols, characters, design or
letters, a nation, political subdivision, institution
or business when hung, without frame, from a
staff or pole.
FREESTANDING Any sign placed upon or supported by structural
SIGN: members placed in the ground independently of
any other structure on the lot.
GRADE: The elevation above mean sea level used for
establishing the following:
Base or Established Grade: The average
elevation of the established curb extending the
width of the front of a lot or, where no curb is
established, the average elevation of the crown
of the street adjacent to the front of a lot.
Finished Grade: The elevations or contours
resulting from excavation or filling as approved
by the Village.
GROUND SIGN: A low profile freestanding sign (monument sign)
erected on a freestanding frame, mast or pole not
more than five (5) feet in height.
HARMONY: A quality which represents an appropriate and
congruent arrangement of parts, as in an
arrangement of varied architectural and
landscape elements.
ILLUMINATED Any sign lighted by or exposed to artificial
SIGN: lighting whether by lights on or within the sign or
directed toward the sign.
LANDSCAPING: Plant materials, topography, and other natural
physical elements combined in relation to one
another and to man-made structures.
- 51 -
LOGOGRAPH: A sign which consists of symbols, words, pictures,
letters' or other graphic elements arranged in a
generally recognizable fashion used to represent
a particular trade, corporation, profession or
business; including but not limited to corporate
emblems, trademarks, logos and barber poles.
Any words or letters included in a logograph shall
be incidental to the graphic elements.
LOT OF RECORD: A designated parcel of land identifiable as a
single separate tract which is part of a
subdivision, the plat of which has been recorded
or registered with the appropriate county office,
or the deed to which has been recorded or
registered with the appropriate county office
pursuant to Chapter 109 (Plats Act) section 1.(b)
of the Illinois Revised Statutes, and which is
intended to be used, developed or built upon as
a unit.
LOT, CORNER: A lot abutting upon two (2) or more streets at
their intersection or junction.
LOT, INTERIOR: A lot other than a corner lot.
LOT LINE: A recorded property boundary line of any single
lot which divides one lot from another lot or
from a right-of-way.
LOT LINE, A lot line which divides a lot from a right-of-
EXTERIOR: way.
LOT LINE, In the case of an interior lot abutting upon only
FRONT: one street, the line separating such lot from such
street; in the case of a double frontage lot, each
line separating such lot from a street shall be
considered a front lot line; in the case of a corner
lot, the shorter lot line separating such lot from
a street shall be considered to be the front lot
line.
LOT LINE, A lot line which divides one lot from another lot.
INTERIOR:
- 52 -
LOT LINE, That lot line which is parallel to and most distant
REAR: from the front lot line of the tot; provided,
however, that in the case of an irregular,
triangular or gore-shaped lot, a line ten feet (t0')
in length, entirely within the lot, parallel to, and
at the maximum possible distance from, the front
lot line shall be considered to be the rear lot line.
LOT LINE, Any lot line other than a front or rear lot line.
SIDE:
LOT, THROUGH: Any interior lot which has a pair of lot lines
along two (2) substantially parallel streets.
MANSARD: A roof having a steep slope, attached to the face
and main structure of the building, which may
extend above the parapet line or roof line of the
building.
MANSARD SIGN: A sign that is mounted on a mansard of a
building.
OUTDOOR ADVERTISING Any sign which directs attention to any
SIGN promotion, business, commodity, service or
activity which is not conducted, sold or offered on
the lot upon which the sign is located.
PORTABLE SIGN: Any sign designed to be moved from place to
place or not securely attached to the ground or
to any structure.
PROJECTING Any sign other than a wall sign that is fastened,
SIGN: affixed or attached directly to an outside wall of
any building as provided under special areas of
control in this Article.
PROPORTION: Balanced relationship of parts of a building, sign,
landscape, structure to each other and to the
architectural concept as a whole.
ROOF LINE: The top of the parapet of a building with a flat
roof, the deck line of a building with a mansard
roof, or the eave line of a building with a gable,
gambrel or hip roof.
- 53 -
ROOF SIGN: A sign erected or maintained in whole or in part
upon, against, or directly above the roof or
parapet line of a building.
SCALE: Proportional relationship of the size of parts to
one another and to human figure.
SHOPPING CENTER: A grouping of retail and service uses with
common access and parking. For purposes of the
Sign Ordinance, shopping centers require a
unified sign criteria approved by management or
ownership. Criteria shall not be in conflict with
Village standards.
SIGHT A triangular area established at the intersection
TRIANGLE: of two (2) streets or a street and a driveway in
which nothing is erected, planted, placed or
allowed to grow so as to limit or obstruct the
sight distance of motorists. Such a triangle shall
have legs of ten feet (10') along the rights-of-
way when two (2) streets intersect or when a
right-of-way and driveway driveway intersect.
SIGN: Any surface, object, device, display, structure or
fabric which is used to advertise, identify, display,
direct or attract attention to an object, person,
institution, organization, business, product,
service, event or location by any means; including
but not limited to words, figures, designs,
symbols, fixtures, colors, illumination, projected
images, or forms shaped to resemble any human,
animal, product or object.
SIGN AREA: The area of a sign, measured as follows:
A. Freestanding or projecting signs shall be
measured as the sum of sign areas within a
rectangle, circle or triangle which encompasses
the extreme limits of every sign face, including
all advertising and background surfaces; but
excluding structural members not forming an
integral part of the display or pole covers which
contain no advertising copy for double-faced
signs. The area of all such faces shall be totaled
and such resultant area shall be divided by two
(2) to determine the total sign area.
- 54 -
B. All other signs shall be measured as the sum
of the area within a rectangle, circle or triangle
which encompasses all letters, words, symbols, or
other graphic elements, plus any background area
which does not appear as a continuous portion of
the building surface.
SIGN FACE: The surface or surfaces used for the display of a
sign message as seen from any one direction.
SIGNABLE The area within a rectangle which encompasses
WALL AREA: a continuous portion of a building facade,
unbroken by windows, doors, or major
architectural interruptions of the building surface.
For signs located completely within a gable,
signable wall area may be triangular in shape.
SPECIAL USE: A classification applying to a property unique in
nature. Individual cases are considered for
special use if the uses are of an unusual nature,
if unique problems exist because of the bulk
and/or location of structures, buildings and signs
on the property. A special use can only be
granted if it meets the "Standards for Special
Use" outhned in Section 7.720.
SPECIAL USE EQUITY An option available to individuals provided they
OPTION: can clearly demonstrate that by exchanging or
trading sign area permitted for their property a
more equitable total sign package is in the best
interest of the individual and the Village. Special
use standards contained in Section 7.720 must
also be met. A unified sign plan or written
criteria Shall be required as a condition of the
special use equity option.
STREETSCAPE: The scene as may be observed along a public
street or way composed of natural and man-made
components, including buildings, paving, planting,
signs, sidewalks, and miscellaneous structures.
TEMPORARY Any sign intended for a limited period of display,
SIGN: the maximum length of which shall be one year.
TEXT AMENDMENT: A change to a section or provision of the Sign
- 55 -
Ordinance which requires final action by the
Village Board of Trustees following a
recommendation and public hearing by the Sign
Review Board.
UNIFIED A business development containing four (4) or
BUSINESS more indoor establishments developed under one
CENTER: ownership, with an integrated building and site
arrangement and overall architectural concept.
VARIATION: A change from the regulations established in this
Chapter. Variations are granted upon
documentation of a hardship, if the "Standards
for Variations" outlined in Section 7.725 apply.
VILLAGE: The Village of Mount Prospect,Illinois.
WALL SIGN: Any sign that is fastened, affixed or attached to
and erected parallel to an exterior building wall
in such a manner that the wall becomes the
supporting structure or forms the background
surface of the sign, and which does not project
more than eighteen inches (18") from the
building.
WINDOW: An opening in the wall of a building for
admission of light containing transparent or
translucent material such as glass.
WINDOW SIGN: Any sign that is applied or attached to a window
or is located within a building such that the sign
is located to be viewed from the exterior of the
building.
WINDOW The area of a building facade which is occupied
SURFACE AREA: by a window.
- 56 -
Secttoa 7.805. Illustrations
ILLUSTRATION 1. SIGN TYPES
ILLUSTRATION 2. SIGN AREA - FREESTANDIN~
SIGN5 KIITH I< ,,,' v
PF-'GORATIVff'Tg,.iM 'GP..OUNi~ "
'.---._, ~ -' 51GIq5 '
!EI~USTRATION 3. SIGN AREA - WALL
ILLUSTRATION 4. $1GNABI..E AREA
ILLU~;TRATION 5. SIGNS WITHIN GABLES
~OklA,~bF-. l,,JAbb AR~A Ibt. U51'KAT~.P
,3.7 5~. FT. (.~oxS~l-)
,,5 I G N
I,_I_USTRATION 6. SIGNS ON RAISED BERMS
hapter 7
SECTION TWO: That this Ordinance shall be in full force and effect
from and after its passage, approval and publication in pamphlet
form as provided by law.
AYES: Busse~ Corcoran, Floros, Hoefert, Wilks
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Clowes
PASSED and APPROVED this 19th day of January , 1993~
ATTEST:
Carol A. Fields
Village Clerk