HomeMy WebLinkAboutIV. COW Agenda Item Proposed Code Updates Chapter 7 Sign 04/14/2009
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Sign Code Update
(Village Code Chapter 7)
Proposed changes to code are shown according to the following:
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CHAPTER 7
SIGN REGULATIONS
ARTICLE I
GENERAL
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 public health, safety and welfare, and develop a satisfactory visual appearance with
the Village by:
A. Promoting the 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. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
ARTICLE II
SCOPE
7.201: SCOPE:
The regulations of this chapter shall govern and control the erection, alteration, relocation,
maintenance, removal and design of all signs within the village. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
7.205: EXEMPT SIGNS:
Page 1 of 46
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 C6') 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:
1. Residential Districts: A maximum of one flagpole, which shall not exceed twenty five feet
C25') in height, shall be permitted per zoning lot. No more than two (2) flags shall be
displayed on a single-family property at one time, and each flag shall not exceed a maximum
size of three feet by five feet C3' x 5').
2. Nonresidential Districts: A maximum of three (3) flagpoles, with no more than two (2)
flags on a pole, shall be permitted per zoning lot. The maximum height permitted for the
flagpole shall not exceed the district's height limitations for principal structures. For flags
flown from a flagpole, such flagpole shall be a minimum of four (4) times the length of the
flag.
3. General Requirements: In addition to the limitations outlined above, the following
restrictions shall apply to flags and flagpoles within all zoning districts:
a. Flagpoles shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet C5') from any property line and
are not permitted within a required interior side yard.
Page 2 of 46
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c. Flags shall be displayed in such a manner that no portion of the flag shall project over
any property line or contact any structure when fully extended.
d. Flags shall not be mounted on roofs.
e. 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. Flags shall be displayed only on flagpoles or staffs designed and constructed specifically
and exclusively for flag display.
g. No flag shall be displayed or attached in any manner to light poles, sign poles, trees, or
similar structures or objects. These restrictions shall not apply to flags located within
public rights of way.
h. Wall mounted flags shall be displayed from flagpoles not to exceed ten feet (10') in
length, and such poles shall not extend above the roofline.
i. Flags shall be maintained in an orderly fashion and in good condition. Tattered or torn
flags shall be removed or replaced.
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 C 16) square feet.
2. The signs are removed within two (2) days after the election.
G.Banners: Banners applied to aper, .Qlastic or fabric used to decorate or attract attention to a
business establishmentaea\llifttfi~}:[ton~rt5J, 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 signs are displayed in conjunction with a special sale for a period not to exceed thirty
(30) days, or
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 ~m~ light poles on private property.
5. One banner, per street frontage, per establishment shall be permitted.
Page 3 of 46
H.Holiday Signs And Decorations: Signs or decorations customarily displayed in conjunction
with a holiday for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days.
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 C40%) of the window surface area, ~.tI
~<<jniiilo..n)j)J:eithiili.~O~-=OJthe~wiDdo}v. sutfMe.car.e.!
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 three (3) times 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 sign shall be displayed per property.
Q.Bus Shelter Signs: Signs integrated into the design of bus shelters located in the right of way
of a major or secondary arterial street, as defined by the village comprehensive plan, and as a
part of a program or contract granted by the village board.
R.Signs Prohibiting Entry Onto Private Property: No more than four (4) signs shall be allowed
on any single-family residential zoning lot and under no circumstances shall the total sign
area exceed six (6) square feet. No more than one sign shall be permitted along each front,
rear or side property line. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993; amd. Ord. 5016,4-20-1999; Ord. 5426,4-
20-2004; Ord. 5445, 7-19-2004; Ord. 5634, 6-19-2007)
ARTICLE III
GENERAL PROVISIONS
7.301: PROHIBITED SIGNS:
Page 4 of 46
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 nonstationary 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 flf3Zas;~ladJJill.
nee evices whiCh areN inflated,,;l)v,,--coICl air~..:.JiQt air ,-",or_btheu
7.305: PERMITTED ON-PREMISES SIGNS:
The following signs shall be permitted in the Village as accessory structures, subject to all
applicable standards:
A. Freestanding Signs:
Page 5 of 46
1. Number:
a. No more than one freestanding sign per street frontage per lot shall be permitted with
the following exception:
Ci) freestanding identification signs in lieu of wall signs shall be permitted in a
multi-tenant office or industrial 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 shall exceed ten (10) square feet or six feet C 6') in height from finished grade.
b. Sign copy for single tenant freestanding sign shall contain no more than ten (1 O)~
5'Fllif()rm~ti6fl.ffili#.Ld;%l~~z..dvliic:C:@t1cnTs<2~ri:!a:~c Jhffli 711'Q~liic.liBJ2"'~:1IJ~IiQJJF! .. For
changeable copy signage refer to subsection 7.325E of this Article.
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 service business center. A maximum of
eighteen C 18) ifems:?oI ihJl1rlil.i:ltiQnl~:orZls-; 2iiilFg[jrfJIiiE' C!cliiciit'S i7:..<!filJJ1:.7f{Qilb'V..(,Liiil1.7lJ,
tk:Elffoog/ii is permitted. Changeable copy signage shall not be combined with multi-
tenant signs.
d. Freestanding signs on properties with multiple street frontages shall be oriented to the
H~~~~treet. right of waL.~~rl1rY~ .ti~~~igipleJOfaZbOnuS":" ut::.Sjgniarea~~
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2. Height: No freestanding sign shall exceed twelve feet (12') in height from finished grade.
Berms shall not be considered finished grade. f'locafe,p wjth if} , qnehuriored, fee '.'0
esioential", r(). en:;~t&~, ;nfaxinnlTIrJieigl1tS p_er,lUIMd Jshall not exceed<tlteb feeLCfcr1. CSee
Section 7.805 of this Chapter for illustration.)
3. Area: 'olreesJandjng' sign 9r a commercial use shaH exceed :the .maxit!lu~ '0,
e:v.enty~fivYd(75)squifre feebpersign face. 'Free~tanding signs for all other u.ses shall;no
IE~~~ ~~~~~~;~\~~ i::Jo}'P:et~u;~e ::~~t::l~i~;:~:~~ )~~;tanding~I~~
~ermltt:d torfryestandmg"slg~" ~h~lI be"red~ce,d b~. !w~ent~_ (20% 'N::
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 CTemporary Signs).
5. Setback: No freestanding signs shall be located closer than five feet C5t) to an exterior
property line, ~loser::t:!)}lfLifi(~ifu::m::Oi!erty.JibeJnat'~p~~~JIL~~itil)jDI~_:JJieJ~:
Page 6 of 46
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7. Distance 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 1: Freestanding signs within any sight triangle shall be a maximum of three
feet C3 ') 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 everyone 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.
B.Wall Signs:
Page 7 of 46
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c. 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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d. Wall signs may be permitted which identify the rear entrance of an establishment
provided such sign does not exceed ten (10) square feet.
~h:~:I;;:lll~-~t1i~~i:t~~1~~:i~i~ib~t1:~~af:1~:~~a~~~Q~~"~~~~eiS~~:~h!
~i~play tpeirid~ntifiqatiQn q~NtQebl(ilCling;i, .<,'.. ......... w...
!b1'lQ/1ts,-in:tlllllltu sJQ1'!',dr1111Ji, tL'flahlfid!/jQgJJ1:~.(ri{l[bjmdJlJ~
f. .~ig~'cqpy,~~o~~ wsingre'ten~pt ofpu~iness w,al I "S ign~haHcontarQ;n? more ~han ten.{;l QJ
~lS',?fi.iIlfOlVl~~~1ot1. Ifthe,n~me of ~he t~nantjs ~~ngerthan te~lwot;d$dhen'[additional
ltems_of:mformatlOn ,are permitted to dISP~V-' the entJrwame. 0 [the tenant'
~';Are~:. ThCr&rosS StlrraSe .area ofa',wal1sign sHarInpt e~ceed. ten i perc:nt(l O:sJ,Q~ f!J~areil
tw!:a:b~iIClihg;\\Va.lh i~clud.i~1?qoors.~nd,~i~dows" ~B wQ,ichthe sign i~,tobea!fi~:~or" ~n~
h1.mfClreafi.ft'y;(J5q)~sgll(lre Jeet,whlcheverls' smaller. '[he ?ross surfase~area' of~'w~llslg
~l~Y .be. increa~.t}d'itqAwe~ty p~r'ten~(gO(~~))~iif'me~.sign cQnsists .of Qflly'individu~~,!'oulline
rlpha15eti?, 'J)v~~.er:iq<~r.dloP.sYlJlPgl i5;cbar~d~rs. w itJ~~lIt b?C~gro~lnd.b~sid,eso/K;ry~~. bq!ldin
~face ,tQ ~~Ich tijeSlg.nils..,.affixedr.. .,. rovIdedthe.mcreasemslze;'does no e ceed on
, drfift ~n~O).sqllare.feet iI1;;area]
ftpebpi10ingis ,se!l5ac1$>25 feet frqm the public right~o -way, the Dlre9tor qf Commurtlf
: i evelopment .or;;a~,(?'~a1ithor?izeCl representative may authorize the w,a1lsigtj. to ,br~eed on
htlQclre,dfifty" (r~O) square feet) but",measlIre no plore than, three hu '., d' 30 uare feei
~Abj ecHo ,comQllance Withthep.trf;entaguequirements discQssedab!_
Method For 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 h\'o (2) adjoining
geometric shapes (circles, squares, rectangles, triangles only). The vertical dimensions of
such signable wall area shall not exceed six feet C6') except that:
Page 8 of 46
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 C300') from the vie\ving vantage point.
b. In no case shall the wall sign exceed one hundred fifty (150) square feet.
5. Projections: No wall sign shall project from the building wall more than eighteen inches
(18").
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7. Displays: Time/temperature displays may be permitted as part of a wall sign.
8. Encroachment: In instances where an exterior wall sign encroaches less than one foot (1 ')
upon an abutting property, a sign permit may be permitted provided the abutting property
owner has granted written permission for the encroachment.
C.Projecting Signs 2: CRep. by Ord. 5507,9-6-2005)
D.Mansard Signs:
I. Number: There shall not be more than one mansard sign for each principal tenant or use
contained within a buildin , 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, guywires,
braces or secondary supports and all hardware concealed. No mansard sign shall extend
above the highest point of the mansard structure.
Page 9 of 46
reside~ 't~e :blg!~!q~~s1[tface~Q ~~pic~.,tli1es !gg i$,arfixed '
not,.exceed \one\hundn';d fjfi ~150 uare feet iwarea
eihcreas'e'1i1~lze.do"'.
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5. Projection: No mansard sign shall project from the building surface more than eighteen
inches (18 ") as measured at right angles from the lower edge of the sign.
E.Canopy, Awning, and Marquee Signs: ~i:e p0r.mitteo [n.$.Qct:iQn~7.~J5:~:t~bl~~Qf:'Sl~u
B2Ji!i[e-tTIenls:':-.=oftJiisJ!.dic~ canopy, awning, and marquee signs shall be permitted subject
to the following:
1. Location: Canopy signs may be mounted on the face of the canopy proper, provided no
w~lI. signs are. directed to the same street frontage. ... le?~e<101:such"ct1nqpysi&n~1~nlWno"'
,l2eep ifi,ftYr~ercef!t(5Q~) of.t~e:grbs~lsurf<lce .<lfea.bfthefacexqf !pe..ca!1opyto~which.ttl.
~i~ is@tg. ~e. ~.f!i:\:~~~lior0 a\maxi~l.!~IOfQP el1.utidr.e.d fifty€l~O)~qtlare fe~~,whi(;h~ve7,i~Jess
p.~I?'~oP...Y. J1.aw... ~pmg,..... ~.~..~/mars.u. e.. e.s~.gn.J.?o.t /fexce... e.thn. g. an.. ~C3.g~:egate.s~~face.area [Ou
~.~,ua~~.lfl~et,are;,exempt fromM.the prQvlSlOns of tftS code"
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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 C 4) square feet.
~;'~e?silifnJli~-':Cillio.p~(m1!EQjJ~~) ~siBi~~UTiig~~JiJi~C1iiinllli[<i:fill\:J~lSJ)):srimrn
Page 10 of 46
4. Projection: No canopy sign shall project more than eighteen inches (18") from the canopy
proper.
5. Clearance: A clearance of eight feet C8') shall be maintained from finished grade to the
lowest point on the sign.
6. Time/Temperature/Directional: These displays may be incorporated into a canopy sign if
located and technical requirements are met as outlined in subsection 7.330A of this article.
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 moLd awning.
7.310: PERMITTED OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGNS:
Outdoor advertising signs shall be permitted on unimproved lots only, subject to the following
conditions:
A.
, ,aovertisib..
'. snfdr~riot xceeoohe htmareo .
C.Distance To Residential: No advertising sign shall be located closer than one hundred feet
C 1 00') to a residential property (lot) line.
D.Setback: No outdoor advertising sign shall be located closer than five feet C5') to an exterior
property line, nor closer than seventy five feet C75') to an interior property line. COrd. 4519,
1-19-1993)
Page 11 of 46
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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 C8') in height
from finished grade.
3. No directory sign shall be located closer than fifty feet C50') to any property line.
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 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 subsection 7.305B8 of this article.
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.
Page 16 of 46
D.
E. Changeable Copy Signs: Manual changeable copy signs shall be permitted when
incorporated into a permitted wall or freestanding sign subject to all applicable standards.
1. Lettering used on manual changeable copy signs directed to local or collector streets shall
be at least three inches C3 ") in height.
2. Lettering used on manual changeable copy signs directed to secondary or major arterial
streets shall be at least six inches C6") in height.
3. Lettering used on manual changeable copy signs directed to pedestrians shall be one inch
C 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 C50%) of the total area of the sign face.
~'!:NQ~iiiclil1Jii:LminJiif"f:rif f)J1VJ~Q[~7Jlq&IEiltlr/Yiii'aJ
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 year.
a. No more than one temporary sign shall be displayed per street frontage per lot.
b. Temporary signs located within one hundred feet ClOO') of a residential property (lot)
line shall not exceed thirty two (32) square feet in area or eight feet C8') in height from
finished grade.
Page 17 of 46
c. Temporary signs located more than one hundred feet ClOO') from any residential
property Clot) 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 C 1 00') 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' names.
f. Temporary signs for sale, lease, rent, contractors, developers, architects, etc., not
exceeding ten (10) square feet are exempt Csection 7.205 of this chapter).
2. B~QQil:bTSe.ar'cl11rgfit~i~hIE'p]:ci~LBx~t!.Qr!hld..Qn~niB~.sig~
!3alloon~; or !:seJiD~hlight '~ev\ces sfiall e permitteq conjririction il~}th
pebidl event or grand"opening{ora,Jotal of four(4) events per year. .
;\<' . ,~,.. . ,.s, ''1'u;;:;;'' ," ',," "" "",' " J.ii",:j
b. Ground/roof secured balloons shall be permitted provided they do not exceed forty feet
C 40') maximum height and twenty feet C20') maximum diameter, and are limited to
spheroid shapes only. Such temporary balloon display shall be limited to a maximum
period of four C 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 C7:00) A.M.
H. Directional Signs:
1. Signs which direct or regulate 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.
b. The sign does not exceed ten (10) square feet in area or six feet C 6') in height from
finished grade for freestanding signs or fifteen feet (15') in height from finished grade for
wall signs.
Page 18 of 46
c. No more than ten percent (10%) of the area of the sign is used to identify any business,
product or service.
I.Multifaced Signs: There shall be a maximum of three (3) sides to a multifaced sign. The sign
area of said signs shall be no greater than the maximum allowed for a double faced
freestanding sign.
J.Sidewalk Signs: The director of community development is authorized to issue permits for the
use of public property for sidewalk signs, subject to the following conditions:
1. Purpose: Signs placed on sidewalks for the purpose of advertising businesses on property
adjoining the building.
2. Permits: A sidewalk sign permit shall be required prior to placing a sidewalk sign on
public property. Sidewalk signs placed on private property do not require a permit but shall
be subject to these regulations as stated. A permit shall be valid from January 1 or the date of
the permit issuance, whichever is later, through December 31 of the same year Crefer to
appendix A, division II of this code for permit fees). Applicant must provide proof of
insurance as specified below prior to issuance of a sidewalk sign permit.
The village may suspend or revoke a sidewalk sign permit or request the removal of a
sidewalk sign placed on private property, to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.
Where a sidewalk sign violates any provision of this code, the permittee shall upon
notification immediately correct such violation.
3. Number Of Signs: Only one sidewalk sign shall be permitted per business establishment,
except that public service signs Ci.e., signs indicating the curb location of valet parking) may
be permitted in addition to the one sign per business establishment.
4. Use Of Signs: Sidewalk signs may only be displayed during business hours and must be
removed at the close of each business day. Sidewalk signs may not be displayed during times
of high winds, snow, or when sidewalks are congested and the placement of a sign may
impede pedestrian movement.
5. Location: Sidewalk signs shall be permitted only in the B-5 Ccentral commercial) and B-
5C Ccore central commercial) zoning districts. Such signs shall not unreasonably interfere
with pedestrian or vehicular traffic or with access to parked vehicles, and shall not reduce the
open portion of any sidewalk to less than five feet C5') in width. The sign shall be placed no
more than one foot (1 ') from the wall of the building, unless the director of community
development approves in writing another location due to other obstructions in the right of
way.
The sign shall not be attached or affixed to the sidewalk, parkway, poles or any other public
facilities. Such signs shall adhere to all sight triangle regulations as set forth in section 7.801
of this chapter.
Page 19 of 46
A plat of surveyor a site plan shall be submitted with permit applications, indicating the
location of the proposed sign.
6. Size: A sidewalk sign shall not exceed four feet C4') in height and the sign area shall not
exceed six (6) square feet per sign face with a maximum of two (2) faces per sign.
7. Illumination And Attention Getting Devices: Sidewalk signs shall not be illuminated. No
attention getting devices, such as balloons, may be attached to a sidewalk sign.
8. Aesthetics And Maintenance: Sidewalk signs shall be of high quality and professionally
constructed of durable materials. Sidewalk signs shall be properly maintained as provided in
section 7.405 of this chapter.
9. Insurance: The applicant for a sidewalk sign permit, shall provide, at its sole cost and
expense, and shall maintain in effect during the entire period of the permit, insurance in the
following manner:
a. Workers' compensation insurance in at least the required statutory limits;
b. Comprehensive general liability insurance, including owner's protective liability
insurance and contractual liability insurance covering claims for personal injury and
property damage with limits of at least one million dollars C$l ,000,000.00) per occurrence,
and one million dollars C$I,OOO,OOO.OO) for any single injury; and
c. Prior to issuance of a sidewalk sign permit, the applicant shall provide the village with
copies of the certificates of insurance for the required insurance naming the village as an
additional insured party.
d. The required insurance policies shall each provide that they shall not be changed or
canceled during the life of the sidewalk sign permit until thirty (30) days after written
notice of such change has been delivered to the village, attention: director of community
development.
e. The permittee shall agree to hold harmless, indemnify, and defend the village from and
against any and all injuries, deaths, losses, damages, claims, suits, liabilities, judgments,
costs and expenses, consequential or otherwise, including reasonable attorney fees, which
may in any way arise out of or be connected with the granting of a sidewalk sign permit, or
in any way result therefrom or from any act or failure to act by the permittee, its agents or
employees.
10. Private Property: Sidewalk signs placed on private property are placed at the risk of the
owner.
11. Expiration Of This Subsection: This subsection J, "Sidewalk Signs", shall expire on
December 31, 2007, and thereafter shall be of no further force and effect unless extended by
Page 20 of 46
action of the village president and board of trustees. COrd. 4519,1-19-1993; amd. Ord. 5507,
9-6-2005)
7.330: SPECIAL USE:
The following .signs may be allowed by special use permit issued in accordance with the general
objectives outlined in sections 7.101 and 7.720 of this chapter.
A.E~e~~:on~c.,~~s~~ Cent.ers: ~. t s', . . copy~.graphi~s~ or . ~ , .'
t'e>ctr~DlC or~ m~~~an!ca' ~means; en. copy, gr~mhlcs or display. remalOs
PloHjm' ana. 'J!on-tlashing for.,: apc'rioa of thirty (30), seconds ,or more "shall Fb
Cl'da dC:tre\:~~~hCt~~~~~):e~:~~~ aiHf :~~.~e~~~~rr s,~e~i~! r~;; '3
1. The electronic message center shall serve the public convenience at that location and shall
be located no closer than six hundred feet C600') to another such device directed to the same
street.
2. The message on the electronic message center may 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 conform to the following requirements:
a. It shall be designed and located so that the entire message is legible to motorists
intended to view it;
b. It shall be constructed from nonreflective materials and illuminated in a manner that
does not create a glare, and
c. The amount of text shall be limited so as to display a message that is legible to motorists
intended to view it.
4. The size of the electronic messa e center shall conform to all ap
specified in this chapter.
1
5. The message format shall conform to the following requirements:
a. The message shall not consist of flashing, scintillating, chasing or animated lights, or
include animated pictorial graphics;
b. Text shall be uniform in color, appearance, and font;
Page 21 of 46
c. The message, including single and multiple lines of text, shall not change more
frequently than once every l@']~'J~)j;~:QC~ seconds;
d. A display time, shorter or longer than that provided in subsection 5Cc) of this section,
may be required due to site specific circumstances, traffic patterns, and/or volume
warranting a shorter or longer display ~ime; and
I
I
e. The operation of an electronic message center under a special use permit for an
electronic message center, which was granted prior to the effective date of subsection 5C c)
of this section and permitted a message display to change more frequently than as provided
in that subsection, shall be a nonconforming use and require a new special use permit upon
the extension, expansion, enlargement, increase in intensity or destruction over fifty
percent C50%) of the market value of the electronic message center.
"1+.'. 'c"" .-.' .....,...-.- .:";r'" ."
d appear during dayti'me and'eveni11ghours.
\j-F<.' - ':'" _ _' . '. -~- _ _,'-'. - Wff. -.... .1:' u#;,;"\ _ -.),
~~;:j :~i:~7~:~~~~~\~t ~;t~~~!~~ ca~~e~;:;~r~;~i~emtt~r 4~W~ ~:1;~~1
~;l:d;"~~~::~~~ns~~" o~~lQ~n~~~~~~~iF~~~~~~e;;~t~~~':~~h~~~at!
p.tl\~,ientJi~~tm9ni~~r that wil~' autoniaticall~ a1Just the .bri~htne~~Jyels ba~ed ,on .a~l~J~n'
m~,~~~t~~~~i~~;r~~j('~I~~~f;~:~~:b:c~:I;~S:~~xlt,t~:/Xur n:i;~:::a:~~~~~~
7. Menu boards used at drive-through lanes and signs used by gas stations to only display
gasoline prices do not require a special use permit. Such information shall be displayed in a
static manner Cno motion permitted), have a uniform color, and illumination levels shall not
exceed surrounding light levels.
B.Development Identification Signs:
1. Size:
a. Single-family Cattached 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, an additional one square foot of sign area for each additional acre of such
Page 22 of 46
development shall be allowed, to a maximum of one hundred fifty (150) square feet in
area.
2. Height:
t
a. Single-family subdivision and multi-family residential signs shall be a. maximum of
eight feet C8') in height from established grade.
b. Business signs shall not exceed twelve feet (12') in height from established grade nor
nine feet C9') from finished grade.
3. Location:
a. Single-familysubdivision and multi-family residential signs shall be located a minimum
of five feet C5') 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 foot (1 ') for each six and one-fourth
C6.25) square feet 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
chapter, provided that the following minimum criteria and the standard for special use set
forth in section 7.720 of this chapter are met:
I. Street Frontage: Five hundred (500) linear feet of street frontage.
2. Minimum Lot Size: Four (4) acres.
3. Highway 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 of this chapter, a request can be made to the ~i~L1:=t[~i~lI~ij,Qi!rSJ
JllIlJilOlia&iiZtlIfilG;(JfillllWIs'1iOlli 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 mm~~1mlaiu:g:'irijmili.uro:of""Qn~:136jiq'~
Dmmsi~n$l~li~g~t1m1~J~~P~ofjDjs~trcte1
3. Will not increase the total number of signs permitted on a single lot or unified business
center.
Page 23 of 46
E.Off Premises Business Identification Signs: The following standards shall apply:
I. 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 freestanding signs permitted by this article shall not be increased by the
placement of the off premises sign.
4. The lot on which the business to be benefitted by the off premises sign must not have any
frontage on an arterial street.
5. An easement or license must be granted allowing the placement of the off premises sign.
6. The sign may contain changeable copy as provided for in subsection 7.325E of this article.
F.Projecting Signs:
1. Number: Wfl!iEci'f1l?liifJilcd in:J{jb.ti32,=sr:..~iJQjf7.~lX~~T'{j1JI(jX)'tSJg7rgb('-iiifJiiilIJJ[ffl:;'1f/f!}llit~
!'l[JKl~Jone projecting sign per street frontage per establishment shall be permitted, rovided
no other signs for such establishment are located on the same building wall. roj~ftilJg!,si
':t1l:not b~~penni~?qn31ndustriahbuirnin sOI1<on 'street fronttres'-r6tiilainos 'I catedar
ia lor arterialroad'wa ' I
2. Area: The area of a projecting sign may not exceed sixteen C 16) square feet.
3. Height: No projecting sign shall extend above the roofline of the building on which it is
located or fourteen feet (14') from finished grade, whichever is less.
4. Projection: No projecting sign shall project from the building wall more than four feet C4').
5. Clearance: Projecting signs shall be located such that a clearance of eight feet C8') is
maintained from finished grade to the lower edge of the sign face. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993;
amd. Ord. 5507, 9-6-2005; Ord. 5515,10-18-2005)
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 Csee exhibit 1
of this section).
B.Areas of special control shall permit the following:
Page 24 of 46
1. Projecting Signs:
a. Number: One projecting sign shall be permitted per business establishment. A projecting
sign and a wall sign may be placed on the same wall provided that the projecting sign
complies with subsections 7.330F2 through F5 of this article and the size of the wall sign
does not exceed twenty five percent C25%) of the erlllittedi!o"'coa
b. Location: Projecting signs permitted under these regulations may extend over the public
right of way four feet C 4') or to within two feet C2') of the curb line, whichever is less Csee
subsection 2a of this section).
2. Canopies Or Awnings:
a. Location: Canopies or awnings permitted under these regulations may extend over the
public right of way the lesser of five feet C5') or to within two feet C2') of the curb line;
provided no supporting posts, columns, or braces extend beyond the property line.
COrd. 5507, 9-6-2005)
ARTICLE IV
SIGN DESIGN
7.401: GENERAL PRINCIPLES 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.
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.
Page 25 of 46
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. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
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 CSigns 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.
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,
landscapin~ and topo~raphy. on the s~te. Mate,rial~:'used.Qt"'Bole .sRirts.shaU '111at?h)h
PBinJify:matenal ilfilii.~H-=o~n-tfie,ol:fiLOingf~r buildihgs.tbi.(v icleritif~. Brick, wood, t>recast~
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 this
Code ii .
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.
C. Sign Placement And Height:
Page 26 of 46
I. 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.
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.
3. Mansard Signs: Mansard signs shall consist of raised individual letters 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.
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.
2. Signs, other than changeable copy and multi-tenant retail and service center signs, shall have
no more than ten (10) items of information that are greater than or equal to two inches C2 ") 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.
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.
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.
Page 27 of 46
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.
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.
G. Color:
1. The visual appearance of signs on a street shall be harmonious, 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.
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.
t!~
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.
5. To maintain legibility, the illumination of letters and graphics shall be substantially
brighter than the illumination of the background on a sign face.
I. Landscaping:
Page 28 of 46
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.
COrd. 4519,1-19-1993)
7.410: ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES FOR SPECIAL SIGNS AND
SITUATIONS:
A. Signs With Company Logos:
1. Company logos or identification logos of a prototypical 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.
B. 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 Community Development Department.
2. Freestanding Signs: Freestanding signs 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 within 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 uniformly 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.
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 B 1 of this Section. 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.
Page 29 of 46
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 one-half (1/2) the total area of that sign face.
I .
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.
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. CSee
subsection 7.325E of this Chapter for lettering size and item total information.) COrd. 4519,
1-19-1993 )
ARTICLE V
ILLUMINATION AND MAINTENANCE
7.501: ILLUMINATION:
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 ClOO') 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 C7:00) 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
Page 30 of 46
not be considered "flashing" signs for the purposes of these regulations. COrd. 4519, 1-19-
1993)
7.505: MAINTENANCE:
A. The owner of a sign and the owner of the premises on which such sigh 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
otherwise treated to prevent rust or deterioration. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
ARTICLE VI
ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
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. COrd. 4519, 1-
19-1993)
7.605: SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:
The following requirements are necessary to submit for review:
A. All signs.
1. Completed ApplicationCs): One separate, originally signed sign permit application for each
sign you are requesting.
Page 31 of 46
2. Construction Specifications C4 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 C4 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 foot of wind load. Community Development may determine that structural
calculations for wind.loading are necessary for safety.
B. Additional Requirements For Nonfreestanding Signs Only:
1. Site Plan Or Survey ~: A scaled surveyor 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 rftt:~CQ~)J A scaled drawing bi'p"botQ~ of the face of the
building to which the sign will be attached showing the following information:
a. All windows, doors, canopies, awnings, roof lines and other architectural elements on
the building face, indicating building materials.
b. All 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. Sign Elevation r1~~pjes..0,:j:BL~liicIIJsIe:019i:!lg}] 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.
Page 32 of 46
4. Site PhotoCs) ['EeQPyj: Color photographCs) that adequately shows the entire building face
on which the sign will be located. For shopping center signs; the photographCs) should
adequately describe other existing signs in the center.
C. Additional Requirements For Freestanding Signs Only:
1. Site Plan r~tcut5ie~TI A scaled site plan of the property on which the sign will be located
showing all dimensions and containing all of the following information;
a. Scale, north arrow, and address of site.
b. All property lines, driveways, and parking areas, and easements on the property.
c. Location of all existing and proposed buildings on the site and any existing freestanding
signs 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 r~~~C:-QUi~$=-J~Q.LWfij~filSiX;O:lm~d1: 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 PhotoCs) fJ1'CQPyJ: Color photographCs) 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 r1..2Cgfri~m. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
7.610: PERMIT FEES:
A. Every applicant, before being granted a permit hereunder, shall pay to the village a fee as set
forth in appendix A, division II of this code. Fees are charged for the review and approval of
permits. A minimum nonrefundable deposit as set forth in appendix A, division II of this
Page 33 of 46
code, shall be submitted with the permit application. The deposit shall be applied toward the
total permit fee upon approval.
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. community development 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. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993; amd. Ord. 5189, 5-
15-2001)
7.615: STANDARDS FOR REVIEW AND APPRO V AL:
All 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. COrd.
4519,1-19-1993)
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.
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 an amount set forth in appendix A,
division I of this code, 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
Page 34 of 46
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 community development a bond in the penal sum as set forth in appendix A,
division I of this code, 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. COrd. 4519,1-19-1993; amd. Ord. 5189, 5-15-2001)
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. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
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 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 or be 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.
Page 35 of 46
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; provided, 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. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
7.635: NONCONFORMING SIGNS:
Any freestanding sign lawfully existing as of November 5, 1986, exceeding twelve feet (12') but
not more than eighteen feet (18') in height, may be continued 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 C50%) of its present value shall be terminated immediately.
C. Any such nonconforming 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. COrd. 4519,1-19-1993)
7.640: ILLEGAL SIGN (BOTH TEMPORARY AND PERMANENT):
Page 36 of 46
L
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 per day of violation as set forth in appendix
A, division III of this code. Any permit fees associated with an illegal sign shall be paid at twice
the normal fee requirements. COrd. 4519,1-19-1993; amd. Ord. 5189, 5-15-2001)
ARTICLE VII
APPEALS, VARIATIONS AND SPECIAL USES
7.701: SCOPE OF APPEALS, VARIATIONS AND 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 m~iewbjiar.a _'"plaYuiiffiL~'~Z1inllig
JEiunmi~sJillU A variation may be requested from the height, area, and minimum distance
requirements contained in this chapter, .
~~ '_";7~~>'k"<r'cT'",--:_:-,:' fL,- <._.~:.;,~~:.'~
A special
use may be requested to allow for an electronic message center, development identification
signs, nonconformin wall signs and the equity option and off-premises business identification
signs. The Plannin:&-ZoninniC~ofumis:sJPJ1 shall hear text amendment
requests and make a recommendation to the village board for final action. COrd. 4519, 1-19-
1993)
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 (5) days prior to a
public hearing before the ~i:girij\Ziew~aldJ~liiidl~8.iiZLopjng~offimiSji?iIDf
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 m~j~C:v.~]~
~:glaDnln~l&I~Qnlijg:C[ri.rit~~idjJ]
1. A legal description of the subject property.
2. The commonly known location Caddress) of the subject property ILQ~<t~~IQPJilI}]
fd~e]l{jfic.-~UQii1S u:lnff~ri(n"'IN)]
3. A brief statement of the nature of the requested appeal or variation.
4. The nameCs) and addressees) of the legal and/or beneficial ownerCs) of the property for
which such appeal, variation, special use and text amendment is requested and the written
approval from the property owner to apply for such request.
Page 37 of 46
5. The nameCs) and addressCes) of the petitionerCs).
6. The name of the legal representative of the petitioner, if 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 as set forth in appendix A, division 11 of this code. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993; amd. Ord.
5189,5-15-2001)
7.710: PROCESSING, NOTICE AND HEARING:
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 C app lication, evidence, exhibits, transcript or record of proceedings, etc.)
shall be placed in said file by the village clerk. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
7.715: ACTION ON APPEAL, VARIATION OR SPECIAL USE:
A. The [tm.il~i~;YII3Oar:-~lalinine;'&:ZohingCohjniissioq 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 tAm
[~yi~w_]5Qtit~rairri.ing&Z~Q~(j.limmissio"il shall use the physical parameters and design
standards included in this chapter as the standards for their decision.
B. The ~n3avj.a:.\,:]59nro;PJanning~2ZWiili2 O()iiilnissii)D 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 ~im~~reviCW.=..ti&tirSPlanni:ng~&l':ZQmn:g
JiQi!imj~SimJ shall recommend action to the village board on text amendment requests within
fifteen C 15) days of the hearing. The ~.ign'l.reY.iew~bQaL<.U.PJarofiijg;&~'Z():niii.i!. Co'ffi'misSilm
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 mgn.1fe.Yie~Y2;bQafa:.EJanJnD-g~:ZQiiiiii--ComlllisS:l9i1, 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.
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
Page 38 of 46
I .
declared to be an emergency measure and necessary for the immediate preservation of the
public peace, health, safety and general welfare. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
7.720: STANDARDS FOR SPECIAL USE:
A. The ~n];re;Mm~QOarlr:;g13iiri]ng&ZonmgrIj)j[mjssio.g 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 signCs) will be in harmony and scale with the architecture of the buildingCs) 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 vicinity 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 out and which particular hardship or practical difficulty is not generally applicable to
other comparable signs or properties.
B. The ~gn;;f~yil3.w]iohtd;;!Pf3IlJiiJlg&[ZQilln2IC'ommis..sipil 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 ~g:li~~{vJiha:ial.e(3lfij;fn~
~(2l.mi'~~G[mm~iml The subject property for which the special use has been granted shall
not be used in violation of the specific terms and the findings of fact unless such use is
Page 39 of 46
allowed by further findings of fact or additional approval, pursuant to additional hearings or
appeal therefor. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
7.725: STANDARDS FOR VARIATIONS:
A. The ~gh.;;r~i~'f~c~ttt'::eI3ilning.&l~oiiiiig:!-:CQmmits)J!g 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:
I. 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 Cor 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 ~t.~ii~.ilodfa'[RUiiim.ng'.&--:-Z.QllingCommJ?sjQ~ 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. COrd. 4519, 1-19-1993)
7.750: STANDARDS FOR TEXT AMENDMENTS:
A. When a text amendment is proposed, the [rg;l]:tey:fei'.M91:'Q:PJif.iiQiIiF&t(j\~oiiiilg'QQmnji1-sJqg
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.
Page 40 of 46
2. The consistency of the proposed amendment with the objectives of this chapter and the
intent of the applicable sign regulation.
3. The degree to which the proposed amendment would create nonconformity.
4. The degree to which the proposed amendment would make this chapter 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 petitions involving similar circumstances. COrd. 4519, 1-
19-1993)
ARTICLE VIII
DEFINITIONS AND ILLUSTRATIONS
7.801: DEFINITIONS:
APPEARANCE: The outward aspect visible to the public.
APPROPRIA TE: Sympathetic, or fitting, to the context of the site and the whole community.
ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPT: 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 STYLE: The characteristic form and detail, as of buildings of a particular
historic period.
A TTRACTIVE: Having qualities that arouse interest and pleasure in the observer.
A WNING: A roof-like structure made of cloth which projects from a building for the purpose of
shielding a doorway or window.
BANNER: 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, businesses or institutions shall
not be considered banners for purposes of this Chapter.
CANOPY CMARQUEE): 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.
CANOPY CMARQUEE) SIGN: Any sign that is fastened, affixed, or attached to and erected
parallel to a canopy or marquee is such a manner that the canopy Cmarquee) becomes the
Page 41 of 46
supporting structure or forms the background surface of the sign, and which does not project
more than eighteen inches (18") from the canopy Cmarquee).
CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN: Any sign that is designed or used so that characters, letters or
symbols can be manually changed or rearranged without altering the surface of the sign.
CODE: The Village Code of Mount Prospect, Illinois.
COMPATIBILITY: Harmony in the appearance of a majority of external design features,
including form, colors, materials, textures, scale, and landscaping in the same vicinity.
DEVELOPMENT IDENTIFICATION SIGN: A sign which identifies the name of a
development consisting of at least five (5) business establishments or a single-family subdivision
when the development comprises a minimum of thirty (30) acres.
DIRECTOR: The Director of Community Development of the Village of Mount Prospect, and/or
his duly authorized agentCs).
DIRECTORY SIGN: A sign which identifies only the names and locations of occupants or uses
within a building or on a lot.
ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER: Any sign which uses changing lights to form a sign
message or messages wherein the sequence 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
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 SIGN: Any sign placed upon or supported by structural 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:
A. 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.
B. Finished Grade: The elevations or contours resulting from excavation or filling as
approved by the Village.
Page 42 of 46
GROUND SIGN: A low profile freestanding sign Cmonument sign) erected on a freestanding
frame, mast or pole not more than five feet C5') in height.
HARMONY: A quality which represents an appropriate and congruent arrangement of parts, as
in an arrangement of varied architectural and landscape elements.
LANDSCAPING: Plant materials, topography, and other natural physical elements combined in
relation to one another and to man-made structures.
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, 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, EXTERIOR: A lot line which divides a lot from a right of way.
LOT LINE, FRONT: In the case of an interior lot abutting upon only 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, INTERIOR: A lot line which divides one lot from another lot.
LOT LINE, REAR: That lot line which is parallel to and most distant from the front lot line of
the lot; provided, however, that in the case of an irregular, triangular or gore-shaped lot, a line
ten feet (10') 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, SIDE: Any lot line other than a front or rear lot line.
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
Page 43 of 46
county office, or the deed to which has been recorded or registered with the appropriate county
office pursuant to chapter 109 CPlats Act) section I.Cb) of the Illinois Revised Statutes, and which
is intended to be used, developed or built upon as a unit.
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 ofa building.
OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGN: Any sign which directs attention to any 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 SIGN: Any sign other than a wall sign that is fastened, affixed or attached
directly to an outside wall of any building as provided under special areas of control in this
Chapter.
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 eaves line of a building with a gable, gambrel or hip roof.
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 TRIANGLE 26 : A triangular area established at the intersection 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 C I 0')
along the rights of way when two (2) streets intersect or when a right of way and a 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,
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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 each and 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.
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 WALL AREA: The area within a rectangle which encompasses 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" outlined in Section 7.720 of this
Chapter.
SPECIAL USE EQUITY OPTION: An option available to individuals provided they 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.
STREETS CAPE: The scene as may be observed along a public street or way composed of
natural and manmade components, including buildings, paving, planting, signs, sidewalks, and
miscellaneous structures.
TEMPORARY SIGN: Any sign intended for a limited period of display, the maximum length of
which shall be one year.
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TEXT AMENDMENT: A change to a section or provision of the Sign Ordinance which requires
final action by the Village Board of Trustees following a recommendation and public hearing by
the IDlri.I.e.'y~Qi1rgil:Uandlog 8E<Zi>RfugCofrnniss iotr:l
UNIFIED BUSINESS CENTER: A business development containing four (4) or more indoor
establishments developed under one ownership, with an integrated building and site arrangement
and overall architectural concept.
V ARIA TION: 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 of
this Chapter 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 SURFACE AREA: The area of a building facade which is occupied by a window.
COrd. 4519,1-19-1993)
7.805: ILLUSTRATIONS:
COrd. 4519,1-19-1993)
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