0704AORDINANCE NO. 704-A
SIGN ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE COMPREHENSIVE
REGULATION OF SIGNS WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF
SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS; PROVIDING FOR FINDINGS AND PURPOSES
FOR THE ADOPTION OF THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR
DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING FOR ADMINISTRATION AND
ENFORCEMENT; PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE AND
REVOCATION OF SIGN PERAMITS; PROVIDING FOR THE REMOVAL
OF SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR APPEALS AND VARIANCES; PROVIDING
FOR LIMITATIONS ON THE LOCATION, SETBACK~ HEIGHT~ SIZE,
LIGHTING AND OTHER REGULATIONS OF SIGNS; PROHIBITING
CERTAIN SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR EXEMPT SIGNS; ALLOWING
NONCOMMERCIAL (IDEOLOGICAL) COPY ON SIGNS; PROVIDING
THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE CUMULATIVE OF ALL
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING
FOR A PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS HEREOF; PROVIDING A
SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN PAMPHLET
FOI~M; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION IN THE OFFICIAL
NEWSPAPER; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Southlake, Texas is a home rule city acting under its charter
adopted by' the electorate pursuant to Article XI, Section 5 of the Texas Constitution and Chapter
9 of thc Local Government Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Southlake finds that the uncontrolled
proliferation of signs is hazardous to users of streets and highways within the City of Southlake
and x~ill adversely affect the safety and efficiency of the City's transportation network; and
WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that scenic resources are distributed
throughout the City and have contributed greatly to its economic development by attracting
tourists, pemmnent residents, and new businesses and cultural facilities; and
V~,HEREAS, the City Council further finds that unless the location, number, setback
lighting and size of signs are regulated, the scattering of such signs throughout the City would be
detrimental to the preservation of those scenic resources and so to the economic base of the City;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council has further determined that the proliferation of signs in the
City has an adverse affect on adjacent properties; and
t CId'r'IKK S ORD FIN ;I.3IGNS'~SIGN-704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1,
WHEREAS, the City Council has heretofore developed and adopted a comprehensive
plan guiding the orderly and proper growth of the City in order to promote the public health,
safety, w'elfare and aesthetics; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the orderly and uniform regulation of signs is a
substantial factor in guiding the attractive and aesthetic development of properties in accordance
with the comprehensive plan and thereby avoiding detrimental impacts of signs on the appearance
of the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the regulations adopted herein allow for a
reasonable use of signs by businesses, residences and other properties for advertisement,
dissemination of protected speech and other purposes; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that, in addition to the above findings, the adoption of
this ordinance will serve the following purposes:
To preserve, protect, and enhance areas of historical, architectural, cultural,
aesthetic, and economic value regardless of whether they are natural or manmade;
To protect adjacent and nearby properties, in particular, residentially zoned
properties from the impact of lighting, size, height, movement, and location of
signs;
To protect the safety and efficiency of the City's transportation network by
reducing the confusion or distraction to motorists and enhancing the motorist's
ability to see pedestrians, obstacles, other vehicles, and traffic signs;
To enhance the impression of the City which is conveyed to tourists and visitors by
controlling the location, number, and size of signs;
To integrate sign regulations more effectively with other regulations by
establishing requirements for setbacks, height, and spacing to allow for lighting,
ventilation, and preservation of views in a manner consistent with land uses in the
various zoning districts; and
To preserve and enhance the appearance of the City and the public interest in
aesthetics, and to control and. reduce visual clutter and blight; and
,~ c~ryt)ocs o~/~N^L~StC~tqS'.Sm~4-?0~^ DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO, 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page ii
To provide institutional entities within the City the ability to communicate public
events to the general public; and
WHEREAS, the City Council deems it necessa~ to adopt this ordinance in order to
protect the health, safety, and welfare of the general public.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS:
SECTION 1.
The attached regulations are hereby adopted as the Sign Ordinance of the City of
Southlake:
SECTION 2.
This ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the City of
Southlake, Texas, except where the provisions of this ordinance are in direct conflict with the
provisions of such ordinances, in which event the conflicting provisions of such ordinances are
hereby repealed. Ordinance No. 704 is hereby repealed.
SECTION 3.
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the phrases, clauses,
sentences, paragraphs and sections of this ordinance are severable, and if any phrase, clause,
sentence, paragraph or section of this ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional by the valid
judgment or decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, such unconstitutionality shall not affect
any of the remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs and sections of this ordinance, since
the same would have been enacted by the City Council without the incorporation in this ordinance
of any such unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section.
SECTION 4.
Any person, firm or corporation who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects or refuses to
comply with or who resists the enforcement of any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be
fined not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for each offense. Each day that a violation is
permitted to exist shall constitute a separate offense.
L/CITYDOCS\ORD/FINAL'~IGNS~S[GN-704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page iii
SECTION 5.
All rights and remedies of the City of Southlake are expressly saved as to any and all
violations of the provisions of Ordinance No. 704 or any other ordinances affecting the regulation
of signs which have accrued at the time of the effective date of this ordinance; and, as to such
accrued violations and all pending litigation, both civil and criminal, whether pending in court or
not, under such ordinances, same shall not be affected by this ordinance but may be prosecuted
until final disposition by the courts.
SECTION 6.
The City Secretary of the City of Southlake is hereby authorized to publish this ordinance
in book or pamphlet form for general distribution among the public, and the operative provisions
of this ordinance as so published shall be admissible in evidence in all courts without further
proof than the production thereof.
SECTION 7.
The City Secretary of the City of Southlake is hereby directed to publish the proposed
ordinance or its caption and penalty together with a notice setting out the time and place for a
public hearing thereon at least ten (10) days before the second reading of this ordinance, and if
this ordinance provides for the imposition of any penalty, fine or forfeiture for any violation of
any of its provisions, then the City Secretary shall additionally publish this ordinance or its
caption and penalty in the official City newspaper one time within ten days after passage of this
ordinance, as required by Section 3.13 of the Charter of the City of Southlake.
SECTION 8.
This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and publication
as required by law, and it is so ordained.
L CF[YI~3CS\ORD\IFINALkqIGNS~qIGN-704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page iv
D AND APPROVED ON FIRST READING ON THIS /7 DAY OF
1998.
ATTEST:
CITY SECRETARY
ED AND APPROVED ON SECOND READING ON THIS / DAY OF
, 1998.
MAYOR
ATTEST:
(~ITY SECRETARY
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
City Attorney
L ,CiTyDOCS/ORD/FiNAD3iGNSX~IGN 70J. A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page v
SIGN ORDINANCE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE I - IN GENERAL ......................................................................................................................... 1
SEC. 1 DEFINITIONS ......................................................................................................... 1
A. GENERAL .......................................................................................................... 1
ARTICLE I1 - ADMINISTRATION ............................................................................................................ 4
SEC. 2 RESPONSIBILITY FOR ENFORCEMENT ..................................................................... 4
SEC. 3 SIGN PERMIT REQUIRED ........................................................................................... 4
SEC. 4 APPLICATION FOR SIGN PERMIT ............................................................................. 4
SEC. 5 FEES ............................................................................................................................. 4
SEC. 6 CONDITIONAL SIGN PERMIT .................................................................................... 4
SE('. 7 REVOCATION OF PERMITS ........................................................................................ 5
SEC, 8 INSPECTION .......................................................................................................... 5
SEC 9 PERMIT VALID FOR ONE HUNDRED EIGH~ (180) DAYS .................................. 5
SEC l0 INVESTIGATION FEES: WORK WITHOUT A PERMIT .......................................... 5
SEC. 11 REMOVAL OF SIGNS .................................................................................................. 6
A. OBSOLETE SIGNS .......................................................................................... 6
B UNSAFE, DILAPIDATED OR DETERIORATED SIGNS ............................. 6
C. SIGNS ON UTILI]~f POLES ........................................................................... 6
D. SIGNS IN RIGHT-OF-WAY AND/OR ON PUBLIC PROPERTY ................. 6
E ILLEGALLY ERECTED SIGNS ........................................................................ 6
F EXTENT OF SIGN REMOVAL ....................................................................... 7
SEC. 12 FILING OF LIENS AGAINST PROPERTY .................................................................. 7
ARTICLE Ill - APPEALS AND VARIANCES ........................................................................................... 7
SEC. 13 APPEALS ...................................................................................................................... 7
SEC. 14 VARIANCES .................................................................................................................. 7
ARTICLE IV GENERAL SIGN PROVISIONS ........................................................................................ 7
SEC. 15 WIND PRESSURE. AND DEAD LOAD REQUIREMENTS ......................................... 7
SEC. 16 PEILMITTED SIGN STRUCTURES AND GENERAL REGULATIONS .................... 8
A. ATTACHED SIGN ............................................................................................ 8
B. MONUMENT SIGN .......................................................................................... 9
C GROUND SIGN ................................................................................................. 9
SEC. 17 PROHIBITED SIGNS ................................................................................................... 10
A. GENERAL ........................................................................................................ 10
B. OBSCENE SIGNS ............................................................................................ 10
C. OBSTRUCTING DOORS, WINDOWS, OR FIRE ESCAPES ....................... 10
i ClTyDOCS\ORD',F~NAL~SlGNS~SlGN-7Oa^ DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998
Page vi
E.
F.
G.
H.
OBSTRUCTING VISION/SIGHT TRIANGLE .............................................. 10
INTERFERENCE WITH TRAFFIC ................................................................10
PORTABLE SIGNS ......................................................................................... 10
CERTAIN ILLUMINATED SIGNS ................................................................10
SIGNS PROJECTING ON/OVER PUBLIC PROPERTY
OR PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ....................................................................... 10
ROOF SIGNS ................................................................................................... 11
SIGNS ON UTILITY POLES ........................................................................... 11
ARTICLE V - SPECIFIC SIGN REGULATIONS ..................................................................................... 11
SEC. 18 SPECIFIC SIGN REGULATIONS ................................................................................. 11
SEC 19 PERMANENT SIGNS REQUIRING PER,MIT .............................................................
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H
11
BUSINESS SIGN ............................................................................................. i 1
MENUBOARD SIGN ...................................................................................... 11
SUBDIVISION ENTRY SIGN ......................................................................... 11
BULLETIN BOARD SIGN ............................................................................... 1 t
DIRECTORY SIGN ......................................................................................... 12
INSTITUTIONAL SIGN ................................................................................... 12
GASOLINE PRICING SIGN ............................................................................ 12
DIRECTIONAL SIGN ...................................................................................... 12
SEC 20. PERMANENT SIGNS EXEMPT FROM PERMIT ....................................................... I3
A. HOME OCCUPATION SIGN .......................................................................... 13
SEC. 21 TEMPORARY SIGNS REQUIRING PERMIT ............................................................. 13
A. BANNER ........................................................................................................ 13
B. MODEL HOME SIGN ..................................................................................... 13
C. SPECIAL PURPOSE SIGN .............................................................................. 13
D. DEVELOPMENT SIGN ................................................................................... 13
SE('. 22
TEMPORARY SIGNS EXEMPT FROM PERMIT ....................................................... 14
A. SUBDIVISION MARKETING SIGN .............................................................. 14
B. BUILDER SIGN ............................................................................................... 14
C. REAL ESTATE SIGN ...................................................................................... 14
D. WINDOW SIGN ............................................................................................... 15
E. GARAGE/~/ARD SALE SIGN ........................................................................ 15
ARTICLE VI - EXEMPTIONS AND SPECIAL CONDITIONS ............................................................... 15
SE('. 23 EXEMPT SIGNS ........................................................................................................... 15
SEC. 24 NONCONFORMING EXISTING SIGNS ..................................................................... 15
SE('. 25 SIGN COPY ................................................................................................................... 16
SEC. 26 APPENDICES ................................................................................................................ 16
L CiTyDOCS/ORD/F[NAL'~[GNS\SIGN 704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page vii
ARTICLE I - IN GENERAL
SEC. I DEFINITIONS
A. GENERAL
ALTER: To change the size, shape or outline, or type of sign or to change the electrical lighting, except
for the replacement of lamps not brighter than the original or the replacement of a surface panel.
ATTACH: To stick, tack, nail or otherwise affix a sign to any object; to paint, stencil, write, or otherwise
mark on an object.
BUILDING: A stnicturc which has a roof supported by walls for the shelter, support, or enclosure of
persons, animals, or chattel.
BUILDING OFFICIAL: The Building Official of the City of Southlake, Texas, or his designee.
CIVIC ORGANIZATION: An organization which offers community programs to citizen, city or civil
affairs groups.
COMMENCEMENT OF WORK: For construction of a sign shall be the point in time when the sign has
been delivered to the site and attachment to a building has begun or holes are excavated for ground
installation.
DILAPIDATED OR DETERIORATED CONDITION: Any sign which in the opinion of the building
official has any of the following characteristics:
la) W"nere elements of the surface or background can be seen, as viewed from the normal viewing
distance, to have portions of the finished material or paint flaked, broken off, or missing, or
otherwise not in harmony with the rest of the surface; or
lb) Where the structural support or frame members are visibly bent, broken, dented, or tom; or
lc) Where the panel is visibly cracked, or in the case of wood and similar products, splintered in
such a way as to constitute an unsightly or harmful condition; or
(d) Where the sign or its elements are twisted or leaning or at angles other than those at which it
was originally erected (such as may result from being blown or the failure of a structural support);
or
(e) Where the message or wording can no longer be clearly read by a person with normal eyesight
under normal viewing conditions; or
DISTANCE: Distance of signs from R.O.W. shall mean the shortest horizontal distance from the nearest
R.O.W. to a vertical line to the ground from the nearest element of the sign or the shortest horizontal
distance in a straight line between the nearest elements of signs.
ERECT: To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix. This shall also include the painting of
signs on the exterior surlZace of a building or structure.
FACADE: Any separate face of a building, including parapet walls and omitted wall lines, or any part of a
building which encloses or covers usable space. Where separate faces are oriented in the same direction, or
in the directions within 45 degrees of one another, they are to be considered as part of a single facade.
GROSS SURFACE AREA OR AREA OF A SIGN: Methods of area measurement shall be in accordance
with Appendix 'A~.
HEIGHT: As applied to a sign, height shall be measured as the vertical distance between the highest part
of the sign or its supporting structure, whichever is higher, and natural grade at the center of the base of the
sign (see Appendix 'A' for clarification).
L '.CITyI~)CS/ORDSFINAL.SIGNSUSIGN-704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page I
ILLUMINATION: The enhancement of a sign utilizing electric lights, luminous tubes or other similar
LEASE SPACE: An area of a building separated internally and intended for use by an individual tenant.
LOGO: Any registered trademark of an organization, individual, company, or product which is commonly
used in advertising to identify that organization, individual, company, or product.
OBSOLETE: Any sign which advertises a business, use or purpose that is no longer in existence.
PAD SITE: A tract, lot, or land lease intended for the single use of a freestanding building typically
adjacent to street R.O.W. and may also be a portion of a tract or lot.
PUBLIC PROPERTY: Any property which is owned by a governmental entity. It shall also include
properly for which the primary use is for the operations of a governmental entity.
SCULPTED ALUMINUM PANEL: An aluminum sign panel with text or graphic depictions cut out from
the panel, typically with a translucent material covering the cut-out from the inner side of the panel.
SETBACK: The distance from the closest portion, whether the support or edge of the sign, to the right-of-
way.
SIGHF TRIANGLE: There shall be two different sight triangles as depicted in the Subdivision Ordinance.
One shall be for public anti'or private street intersections and the other for the intersection of private non-
single family driveways with public or private streets.
SIGN: Every sign, name, number, identification, description, and announcement, declaration,
demonstration, device, display, flag, banner, pennant, illustration, logo, balloon, streamer, valance,
advertising display, poster, beacon, light or insignia, and structure supporting any of the same, affixed
directly or indirectly to or upon any building or outdoor structure, or erected or maintained upon a piece of
land. which directs attention to any object, project, service, place, activity, person, institution, organization,
or business.
SIGN, ATTACHED: Any s~gn attached to. applied on, or supported by any part of a building (including
canopy fascia, walls and awnings) which encloses or covers usable space.
SIGN. BANNER: A temporary sign made of cloth, flexible plastic or canvas material.
SIGN, BUILDER: A temporary on-site sign identifying the builder or general contractor of a residential
construction site.
SIGN. BULLETIN BOARD: A permanent on-site sign providing public information to the residential
snbdivision within which it is located.
SIGN, BUSINESS: A permanent on-site sign that is used to identify a business, profession, organization,
insutution, service, activity or other nonresidential use conducted, sold or offered on the site where such
sign ts located. This sign may also identify the name of the site or development or may identify the
occupants within the site or development.
SIGN, DEVELOPMENT: A temporary on-site sign providing identification or information pertaining to a
residential or commercial development to include the builder, property owner, architect, contractor,
engineer, landscape architect, decorator, or mortgagee, within that development, but shall not include a
subdivision marketing sign.
SIGN, DIRECTIONAL: A permanent on-site sign intended to aid in vehicular movement on the site.
L ,CiTYDOCS/ORD,FiNALX.$1GNS~SIGN.704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page 2
SIGN, DIRECTORY: A permanent on-site sign providing direction to or identifying the buildings in the
development.
SIGN FACE: The surface of one side of a sign. For a monument sign, the sign face shall include the sign
structure (excluding base).
SIGN, GAIL≥YARD SALE: A temporary, sign intended to advertise garage sales or yard sales.
S1GN~ GASOLINE PRiCiNG: A permanent on-site sign which displays the price per gallon of fuel sold
by that business, and which may be periodically changed to reflect changes in fuel prices.
SIGN, GOVERNMENT: A sign erected by or on behalf of a federal, state or local government or an
agency thereof.
SIGN. GROUND: Any sign connected to the ground by legs, poles, or other supports and which is not an
attached, portable, monument, or vehicular sign.
SIGN, INSTITUTIONAL: A permanent on-site sign used to identify governmental and municipal
agencies, public schools, churches, or similar public institutions, and used to communicate messages of
public importance to the general public.
SIGN, MENUBOARD: A permanent on-site sign which displays a menu and pricing for food services and
may include an audible speaker and microphone integral to the sign.
SIGN, MODEk HOME: A temporary real estate sign identifying a homebuilder's model home open for
insp¢ctton.
SIGN, MONUMENT: Any sign which is connected to the ground and ~vhich has no clear space for the full
width of the sign between the bottom of the sign and the surface of the ground.
SIGN, OFF-SITE: A sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, good, product, or
entertainment not related to the site upon which such sign is located or to which it is affixed.
SIGN, ON-SITE: Any s~gn, the content of which relates to the site on which it is located, referring
exclusively to businesses, commodities, services, products, goods, or entertainment on the site, or the sale,
lease, or construction of those sites.
SIGN, POLITICAL: A type of off-site sign which refers only to the candidates or issues involved in a
political election.
SIGN, PORTABLE: Any sign which is not attached or affixed to the ground, a building, vehicle, or other
fixed structure or object. Portable signs include those signs installed on wheels, trailers, skids, and similar
mobile structures.
SIGN. READERBOARD (electroui~_: A sign that utilizes alternating electronic data control components.
SIGN, READERBOARD (manual): A sign comprised of non-permanent letters, numerals or symbols,
which allows a change of sign copy by adding, removing or rearranging said letters, symbols or numerals.
SIGN, REAL ESTATE: A temporary sign intended to advertise real estate for sale or lease.
SIGN, SPECIAL PURPOSE: A temporary sign that is either on-site or off-site that provides identification
or information pertaining to a special event or occurrence sponsored by a non-profit or civic organization.
SIGN, SUBDIVISION ENTRY: Any pemmnent on-site sign identifying a residential subdivision.
L s£1TYIDOCSXORII/F[Na.L~SIGNSkSIGN-704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page 3
SIGN, SUBDIVISION MARKETING: A temporary sign used to market or advertise residential
subdivisions within the City and to direct interested persons to the subdivision location.
SIGN, TEMPORARY: Any sign constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, or other
like materials, with or without frames, and any type sign not permanently attached to the ground, wall, or
building, intended to be displayed for a short period of time only.
SIGN, VEHICULAR: Any sign which is affixed to a vehicle.
SIGN, WIN'DOW: Any sign located on the internal and/or external surface of the window, or is located
within two feet (2') of the window, of any establishment.
SITE: A lot, tract or pad site.
ARTICLE 11 ~ ADMINISTRATION
SEC. 2 RESPONSIBILITY FOR ENFORCEMENT
It is the responsibility of the Building Official to interpret, administer and enforce the requirements of this
ordinance.
SEC. 3 SIGN PEILMIT REQUIRED
No person shall erect, alter or display any sign nor shall any person allow the erection, alteration or display
of any sign upon any property within the City owned or controlled by him without first obtaining a permit
to do so from the City of Southlake, except as hereinafter provided. No sign permit shall be released until
after the building permit for the principal building on the site has been issued, except as hereinafter
provided.
SEC. 4 APPLICATION FOR SIGN PERMIT
Application Ibr a permit shall be made as required by this ordinance and the following information shall be
submitted as separate documents:
a. Application form shall be completed.
b. General plan that illustrates:
- Location of the building, structure, or tract to which or upon which the sign is to be attached or
erected.
- Position of the sign in relation to rights-of-way, easements, buildings, structures, existing signs,
etc.
c. Sign drawing that illustrates height, length, width, and all other dimensions associated with the
sign.
d. Letter from owner of the property stating that the applicant has permission to erect such signs.
SEC. 5 FEES
A. All t'ees for sign permits shall be in accordance with the current fee schedule adopted by the City Council.
An annual renewal fee for applicable temporary signs shall be determined in accordance with the current
fee schedule adopted by the City Council.
SEC. 6 CONDITIONAL SIGN PERMIT
A. GENERAL: Notwithstanding anything in this ordinance to the contrary, the erection of a sign or signs
may be approved pursuant to this section under a conditional sign permit approved by the City Council.
The purpose of this section is to allow for a specialized review of signs which may not be appropriate
generally without certain restrictions, but which, if controlled as to the number, size, height, color, location,
L !CITYD4)CS/ORi)XFINAL'SIGNS/SIGN.704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December I. 1998 Page 4
lighting, or relation to adjacent properties, would promote the health, safety, and welfare of the community.
Conditional permitting of signs shall not be based upon the content of the sign, but is intended to allow for
the evaluation of the physical impact of the proposed sign on adjacent properties and to ensure adequate
mitigation of potentially unfavorable factors, such as the number, size, height, color, location, lighting, and
other potentially unfavorable impacts.
APPLICATION: An application for a conditional sign permit shall be submitted to the Building Official
and shall include all documents as required by Section 4 of this ordinance. Additionally, the applicant shall
submit construction plans drawn by a registered professional engineer or architect in the State of Texas and
also provide renderings of the particutar sign types, facades, materials, compositions, dimensions, lighting,
and colors
FEES: Fees for conditional sign permits shall be determined in accordance with the current fee schedule
adopted by the City Council.
ANNUAL RENEWAL FEES: An annual renewal fee for applicable temporary conditional signs shall be
determined in accordance with the current fee schedule adopted by the City Council.
SEC. 7 REVOCATION OF PERMITS
The Building Official may suspend or revoke any permit issued under the provisions of this ordinance
whenever it is determined that the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect or false information
supplied, or whenever such permit is issued in violation of any of the provisions of this ordinance or any
other ordinance of this CiD' or laws of this state or the federal goverrgnent. Such suspension or revocation
shall be effective when communicated in writing to the person to whom the permit is issued, the owner of
tire sign. or the ortner or' the site upon which the sign is located. Upon such revocation, all construction
related to the revoked permit shall cease.
A person may appeal the revocation of the sign permit to the City Council by filing an appeal in
accordance with this ordinance. The CiD' Council shall affirm, reverse, or modify the suspension or
revocation and such decision shall be final.
Upon final determination that the permit ts properly revoked, any portion of the sign in place as a result of
the permit shall be removed within 10 days by the owner of the sign or the owner of the site on which the
sign is located. Failure to remove the sign shall be deemed a violation of this ordinance.
SEC. 8 INSPECTION
The Building Official shall periodically inspect each sign regulated by this ordinance for the purpose of
ascertaining whether the same is obsolete and whether it is in need of removal or repair.
SEC 9 PER_MIT VALID FOR ONE HUNDRED EIGH'IW (180) DAYS
If the work authorized by a permit issued under this ordinance has not been commenced within one
hundred eighty (180) days after the date of issuance, the permit shall become null and void.
SEC 10 INVESTIGATION FEES: WORK WITHOUT A PERMIT
INVESTIGATION. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this ordinance has been
commenced or completed without first obtaining a permit, a special investigation shall be made before a
permit may be issued for such work.
FEE. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a permit is then
subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by this
ordinance.
L 'CITYDOCS/ORDXF[NAL~SIGNS/SIGN-704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page 5
SEC 11
A.
REMOVAL OF SIGNS
OBSOLETE SIGNS. Any sign, which the Building Official determines to be obsolete, shall be removed
by the permit holder, owner of the sign or owner of the site on which the sign is located. For temporary
signs, the sign must be removed as noted on the sign permit application or within three (3) days after
receiving v, rinen notification to do so from the Building Official. For permanent signs, the sign must be
removed by the permit holder, owner of the sign, or owner of the site on which the sign is located within a
reasonable t~me period as determined by the Building Official. Upon failure to comply with such notice or
to file an appeal of the decision in accordance with this ordinance, the Building Official is authorized to
cause the removal of such sign, and any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the permit holder, owner
of the sign or owner of the site on which the sign is located.
UNSAFE DILAPIDATED OR DETERIO1L~TED SIGNS. If the Building Official determines that any
sign is unsafe or insecure, or is dilapidated or deteriorated, he shall give written notice to remove or replace
(in accordance with this ordinance) said sign to the person or persons responsible for such sign. If the
permit holder, owner of the sign or owner of the site on which the sign is located fails to remove or repair
the sign within ten (10) days after such notice or to file an appeal of the decision in accordance with this
ordinance, the Building Official is hereby authorized to cause the removal of such sign. Nothing contained
herein shall prohibit the immediate removal, without notice, of any sign or portion of a sign which is
determined by the Building Official to be an immediate threat or danger to the public health, safety, or
welfare. Any expense incident to the removal of a sign pursuant to this paragraph shall be paid by the
permtt holder, owner of the sign or owner of the site on which the sign is located. The removal of the sign
or portion of the sign shall be limited to the extent necessaD' to eliminate the threat to the public health,
safety, and ~elfare.
SIGNS ON UTILITY POLES. Any sign that is erected, constructed or otherwise attached to a utility
pole located upon any public right of way or utility easement may be removed by City personnel. The
permit holder, owner of the sign or orator of the site on which the sign is located shall be charged a sign
recovery fee in accordance with the city fee schedule to recover such sign from the City unless the permit
holder or owner satisfactorily establishes that such sign was not placed in the right-of-way by the owner of
such sign or by any authorized agent, representative, or employee of said owner. Any such sign removed
by City personnel may be held fi)r a period of seventy-two (72) hours and upon expiration of such time
may be disposed. The CiD- ts not required to notify the permit holder or owner of the sign that it has been
picked up or that disposal of the stgn is imminent.
SIGNS IN RIGHT-OF-'WAY AND/OR ON PUBLIC PROPERTY: Any sign that is erected,
constructed or otherwise located within or upon public fight-of-way or on public property may be removed
by City personnel and the permit holder or owner of such sign shall be charged a sign recovery fee in
accordance with the city fee schedule to recover such sign from the City. No such fee shall be charged if
the permit holder or owner satisfactorily establishes that such sign was not placed in the right-of-way by
the permit holder or owner of such sign or by any authorized agent, representative or employee of said
owner. Any such sign removed by City personnel may be held for a period of seventy-two (72) hours and
upon expiranon of such time may be disposed. The City is not required to notify the permit holder or
owner of the sign that it has been picked up or that disposal of the sign is imminent.
ILLEGALLY ERECTED SIGNS: Any temporary sign that is erected, constructed or other.vise
displayed, which the Building Official determines to be in direct violation of this ordinance, may be
removed b~ City personnel. The permit holder, owner of the sign or owner of the site on which the sign is
located shall be charged a sign recovery fee in accordance with the city fee schedule to recover such sign
fi'om the City.. Any such sign removed by City personnel may be held for a period of seventy-two (72)
hours and upon expiration of such time may be disposed. The City is not required to notify the permit
holder or owner of the sign that it has been picked up or that disposal of the sign is imminent. For
permanent signs, the sign must be removed by the permit holder, owner of the sign, or owner of the site on
which the sign is located within a reasonable time period as determined by the Building Official. Upon
failure to comply with such notice or to file an appeal of the decision in accordance with this ordinance, the
i XCITyIDO(-S/ORD~F[NAL',S[GNS~SIGN-?O4A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page 6
SEC 12
Building Official is authorized to cause the removal of such sign, and any expense incident thereto shall be
paid by the permit holder, owner of the sign or owner of the site on which the sign is located.
EXTENT OF SIGN REMOVAL: The Building Official shall determine to what extent the elements of
the sign must be removed to comply with this section. This may include any of the following, but is not
limited to the following:
1. SIGN COPY: Removal of the text or copy portion of the sign.
2. SIGN BOX: Removal of the portion of the sign excluding the structural support of the sign.
3. ENTIRE SIGN: Removal of all structural elements of the sign.
FILING OF LIENS AGAINST PROPERTY
The city is authorized to file a lien against any property which is not otherwise exempt to recover expenses
incurred by the city for the removal of a sign or portion of a sign from the property, pursuant to Section 11
F.
ARTICLE III - APPEALS AND VARIANCES
SEC. 13 APPEALS
Any decision rendered by the Building Official under this ordinance may be appealed to the City Council
by any person, agent, or representative affected by such decision. Such appeal must be received within ten
(10) days after the placement of a letter in the U.S. mail addressed to the address on the permit or the
address of the current owner of record in the County tax records which states the written decision which
has been rendered by the Building Official. Such appeal shall be filed in writing with the Building Official
specif.ving the grounds on which the appeal is based. The Building Official shall forthwith transmit to the
Cit) Council all documents pertaining to the appealed action. The City Council shall hear the appeal at a
City Council meeting as soon as practicable thereafter to determine whether the decision of the Building
Official vas in accordance with all ordinances and regulations. The decision of the City Council shall be
final.
SEC. I4 VARIANCES
The City Council may authorize variances to any restriction set forth in this ordinance, including but not
limited to the number, type, area, height, or setback of signs, or any other aspect involved in the sign
permitting process. In granting any variance, the City Council shall determine that a literal enforcement of
the sign regulations will create an unnecessary hardship or a practical difficulty on the applicant, that the
situation causing the unnecessary hardship or prachcal difficulty is unique to the affected property and is
not self-imposed, that the variance will not injure and will be wholly compatible with the use and permitted
development of adjacent properties, and that the granting of the variance will be in harmony with the spirit
and purpose of this sign ordinance. A person may request a variance from the Sign Ordinance by filing the
request with the Building Official. Any request for variance shall be accompanied by a completed
application and a non-refundable filing fee in the amount specified in the current fee schedule adopted by
Ci~' Council.
ARTICLE IV - GENERAL SIGN PRO'vISIONS
SEC. 15 WIND PRESSURE AND DEAD LOAD REQUIREMENTS
All signs shall be designed and constructed to withstand a wind pressure of not less than thirty (30) pounds
per square foot of area and shall be constructed to receive dead loads as required by the Uniform Building
Code. The sign permit application must include a statement signed by the applicant which states
compliance with this requirement.
C ,CITYDOCS\ORD/FI2qAL~IONS~SIGN 704A ~ SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page 7
SEC. 16 PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURES AND GENERAL REGULATIONS
A. ATTACHED SIGN
GENERAL: Unless otherwise specifically provided, the regulations set forth in this subsection
shall be applicable to all attached signs which are allowed under this ordinance. Signs may not be
attached to light fixtures, poles, curbs, sidewalks, gutters, streets, utility poles, public buildings,
fences, railings, public telephone poles, or trees. The direct painting of signs on buildings shall be
prohibited except for signs tess than a three (3) square foot area used for building identification.
MINIMLLM MAXIMUM LETTER/LOGO HEIGHT: The minimum height allowed for letters or
logos shall be six (6) inches. The maximum height allowed for letters or logos shall be based on
the following criteria:
Distance From R.O.W. *
Maximum Letter/Logo Height
Less thanl00 fi. 12inches
101 - 150 fi. 18 inches
151 - 200 fi. 24 inches
201-250 fi. 30inches
251-300 ff. 36inches
301 and greater 42 inches
* - For any lease space which does not front on a street, the maximum letter/logo height shall be
based on the distance from the vehicular driveway access (see Appendix 'B' for further
clarification).
MAXIMUM AREA: 0.75 square feet for every one foot of width of building or lease space not to
exceed 400 square feet (see Appendix 'A' for further clarification).
NUMBER OF SIGNS: Only one attached sign per lease space shall be allowed along each stxeet
frontage on any site, unless otherwise specifically provided in this ordinance. A secondary sign
may be permitted at a public entrance, provided the entrance is on another side of the building, but
shall be limited to twenty-five percent (25%) of the primary or permitted sign size, whichever is
more restricnve. The six (6) inch minimum letter/logo height will not apply to these secondary
signs. No more than two (2) attached signs shall be allowed per lease space. Attached signs shall
be located within the first story of the main exterior entrance for a building or lease space (see
Appendix 'B' for further clarification).
SIGN WIDTH: Attached signs shall be limited in width to the middle seventy five percent (75%)
of the width of any building or lease space. In the event the lease space facade is horizontally
articulated, the 75% mle shall apply to the allowed sign to be located on any single plane facade
(see Appendix 'B' for further clarification).
ROOF LiNE LIMITATIONS: In no case shall an attached sign project above the roof line of any
building, except those attached to parapet walls and the sign may not extend above the parapet
wall. Signs shall be no closer vertically to the eave of the roofline or overhang than the
predominant letter height (see Appendix ~B' for further clarification). Signs may be attached to a
continuous plane fascia, it' the sign does not extend above or below the projection of the fascia.
Signs attached to fascia are only allowed when attached to structural canopy supported to the
ground by columns constructed of similar masonry material as the primary structure (See
Appendix 'B' for further clarification).
ILLUMINATION: Attached signs may only be illuminated utilizing internal lighting. Exterior
letters with exposed neon lighting are not allowed.
L iC[TYBC, CS\ORD/FINAL~SIGNS~SIGN-7OaA DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 8
PROTRUSIONS: Attached signs may not promade farther than eighteen inches (t8") from the
building, excluding signs attached to canopies.
RESIDENTIAL ADJACENCY: Attached signs shall not be allowed on any facade (other than
the main front of the building) which faces property zoned for single-family residential uses if the
sign is within one hundred fifty feet (150') of the property line of said residential property.
MONUMENT SIGN
GENERAL: Unless otherwise specifically provided, the regulations set forth in this subsection
shall be applicable to all monument signs which are allowed under this ordinance.
MINIMUM LEWFER/LOGO HEIGHT: The minimum height allowed for letters or logos shall be
six (6) inches.
MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Four (4) feet, excluding monument base and sign structure. The
monument base may be an additional eighteen (18) inches in height measured from ground level
at the center of the base to the top of the base. The sign structure shall not exceed five (5) feet.
MAXIMUM AREA: One hundred (100) square feet per sign with a maximum area per sign face
of fifty (50) square feet. The maximum area for the sign structure shall not exceed seventy (70)
square feet (see Appendix 'A' for measurement criteria).
NUMBER OF SIGNS: Only one monument sign, excluding menuboard signs, shall be allowed
along each street frontage on any site, unless other,vise specifically provided in this ordinance.
Monument signs may be no closer than five hundred 1500) feet on any one site.
6. MINIMUM SETBACK: Fifteen (15) feet from any property line.
MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS: All monument sign bases shall be constructed of the same
masonry material as the front building facade on the same site or shall be stone or brick. The sign
structure must be constructed or covered with the same masonry material as the principal building,
or stone, or brick. Sculpted aluminum sign panels will be allowed. All sign text and graphic
elements shall be limited to a minimum of six (6) inches from the outer limits of the sign
structure.
ILLUMINATION: Monument signs may only be illuminated utilizing internal lighting for
sculpted aluminum panels or a ground lighting source where the light itself and supporting
structure are not visible from public R.O.W.
GROUND SIGN
GENERAL: Unless otherwise specifically provided, the regulations set forth in this subsection
shall be applicable to all ground signs.
2. MINIMUM SETBACK: Fifteen (15) feet from any property line.
3. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 'Ituree feet (3')
4. MAXIMUM AREA: Eight (8) square feet with a maximum of four (4) square feet per sign face.
5. NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) sign per site.
L !CiTYDOC$\ORD/FINALISIGNS~IGN 704A ~ SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page 9
SEC. 17
A.
H.
PROHIBITED SIGNS
GENERAL
Any sign which is not specifically permitted in Articles V and VI of this ordinance shall be prohibited.
OBSCENE SIGNS
No person shall erect or display on any site a sign in which the dominant theme of material taken as a
whole appeals to a prurient interest in sex, or is patently offensive because it affronts corm'nunity standards
relating to the description or representation of sexual matters, and is utterly without redeeming social value.
OBSTRUCTYNG DOORS, WINDOWS, OR FIRE ESCAPES
No person shall erect or display on any site any sign which prevents free ingress to or egress from any
door, window, or fire escape.
OBSTRUCTING VISION/SIGHT TRIANGLE
No person shall erect or display on any site any sign in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision at
any location, street, intersection, or driveway. All signs placed at any intersection shall prevent such
problem by obseIwing a sight triangle as provided for in Section 1, "Definihons."
INTERFERENCE WITH TRAFFIC
No person shall erect or display on any site any sign which interferes with vehicular or pedestrian traffic as
a result of the position, size, shape, movement, color, fashion, manner, or intensity of illumination or any
other characteristics causing such interference. Nor shall any person erect or allow to be displayed any
sign in such a manner as to interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic
sign, signal, or device, including, without limitation, signs making use of the words "stop," "go," "look,"
"slow," "danger," or any other similar word, phrase, symbol or character, or employ any red, yellow, green,
or other colored lamp or light in such a manner as to cause confusion or otherwise interfere with vehicular
or pedestrian traffic.
PORTABLE SIGNS
No person shall erect or display on any site any portable sign; except, however, that upon a majority vote
by the City Council, a conditional use permit may be issued to any non-profit organization for an on-site
portable sign. Permits shall be issued for one thirty (30) day period with at least ninety (90) days
separation between permits.
CEP, TAiN ILLUMINATED SIGNS
No sign shall be illuminated to such an intensity or in such a manner as to cause a glare or
brightness to a degree that it constitutes a hazard or nuisance to traffic. Moving, flashing,
intermittent lighte& changing color, revolving, or similarly constructed signs shall not be allowed.
No lighted sign shall be erected or displayed within one-hundred fifty (150) feet of a single-family
residentially zoned property unless the lighting is shielded from view of the residentially zoned
property and indirect light does not exceed l/2 lumen measured from any property line of the
residentially zoned property.
SI(iNS PROJECTING ON/OVER PUBLIC PROPERTY OR PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY
It shall be prohibited to erect or display any type of sign on or over public right-of-way (ROW) or other
public property, unless the same be erected by ~ City, County, State or other authorized governmental
agency, or with the permission of the City, for public purposes.
L ,ClTYDOCS/ORD/FINAL~SIGNSUSIGN 704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 10
ROOF SIGNS
Any sign erected on a vertical framework supported by and located immediately and entirely over the roof
of a building is prohibited. Any sign attached to a fascia extending above the projection of the fascia shall
be prohibited The painting or otherwise affixing of signs on a roof is prohibited.
SIGNS ON UTILITY POLES
No person shall erect or display any sign on any utility pole located upon any public right-of-way or utility
easement.
ARTICLE V - SPECIFIC SIGN REGULATIONS
SEC. 18 SPECIFIC SIGN REGULATIONS
This article regulates the type of sign structure allowed for each type of sign permitted by this ordinance.
Each of the signs identified in this article is subject to the general sign provisions set forth in Article 1V
except where modifications to the general regulations are noted.
SEC. 19 PEICMANENT SIGNS REQUIRING PEILMIT
Unless otherwise specifically provided, the regulations set forth in this article shall be applicable to all of
the follovdng signs.
BUSINESS SIGN
1. PEILMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS: None
MENUBOARD SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MINIMUM LETTER/LOGO HEIGHT: Not applicable
b. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Six feet (6').
c. MAXIMUM AREA: Twenty four (24) square feet. Only one face will be allowed per
sign.
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: No more than two (2) signs per site.
LOCATION LIMITATIONS: All menuboard signs must be located at the side or rear of
the principal building. If two (2) signs are erected, signs must be at least eighteen (18)
feet apart.
f. ILLUMINATION: Internal lighting may be utilized for sign panel.
SUBDIVISION ENTRY SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Attached sign may not project above top of wall
b MAXIMUM AREA: Thirty-two (32) square feet for attached sign
c. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) monument sign or two (2) attached wall
plaque signs (not a combination thereof) per street entrance
d. PLACEMENT OF SIGN: Monument sign may be located on median at street entrance if
approved by City Council on Concept Plan, in developer's agreement, or by a separate
application.
D. BULLETIN BOARD SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached, monument and/or ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
'" a. MINIMUM LETTER / LOGO HEIGHT: Not applicable
L xCITYDOCS/ORD~rlNAL~S[GNS'~SIGN 70~A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998
Page 11
MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Six (6) feet
MAXIMUM AREA: Eighteen (18) square feet. Only one face allowed per sign.
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) per subdivision entrance, not to exceed two
(2) per subdivision
MINIMUM SETBACK: Not applicable
LOCATION' WHERE ALLOWED: No closer than one-hundred (100) feet from an
arterial. Sign must be located on designated common area and maintained by the home
owner's associatton.
MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS: Bulletin board must have a lockable covering.
Masonry requirement shall not apply.
DIRECTORY SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. M1NI~M SETBACK: Seventy-five (75) feet from drive entrance at right-of-way.
b. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (I) sign per street entrance.
c. RESIDENTIAL ADJACENCY: Not applicable
d. LOCATIONS WHERE ALLOWED: Only distance measurements shall apply.
INSTITUTIONAL SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. GENERAL:
i. Sign must be integral to the permitted sign for the site.
ii. Messages on readerboards, whether electronic or manual, may not scroll, flash,
or change more frequently than once a day.
iii. Manual readerboard signs using alphabetical lettering must have a lockable
covering.
b. MAXIMUM AREA: Readerboard display cannot exceed two-thirds (2/3) of the
permitted gross surface area per face of the sign, excluding monument sign border.
c. ILLUMINATION: Internal illummation may be utilized for sign panel.
GASOLiNE PRICiNG SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENEIL~.L REGULATIONS:
a. GENERA[.:
i. Sign must be integral to the permitted sign for the site.
ii. Price-per-gallon display, whether electronic or manual, may not scroll, flash, or
change more lYequently than once a day.
b. MINIMUM LETTER HEIGHT: Not applicable for the fuel classification (i.e.
"Unleaded", "Diesel", etc.) and the price-per-gallon display.
c. MAXIMUM AREA: Price-per-gallon display cannot exceed t~vo-thirds (2/3) of the
permitted gross surface area per face of the sign, excluding monument sign border.
d. NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) per site.
e. ILLUMINATION: Internal illumination may be utilized for fuel classification and price-
per-gallon panels only.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Three (3) feet
b. MAXIMUM AREA: Eight (8) square feet with a maximum of four (4) square feet per
sign face.
c. NUMBER OF SIGNS: Maximum of two (2) signs per site.
L \CITYDOCSXOKD/FINAL~IGNS~SIGN-70aA DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO 704-A Approved December I, 1998 Page 12
SEC. 20 PERMANENT SIGNS EXEMPT FROM PERMIT
A permit shall not be required for the following signs:
HOME OCCUPATION SIGN
PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a MINIMUM LETTER / LOGO HEIGHT: Not applicable
b. MAXIMUM AREA: One (1) square foot
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1)
d. LOCATIONS WHERE ALLOWED: Any sign must be non-illuminated and mounted
fiat against the wall at the entrance of the home occupation.
SEC. 2 l TEMPORARY SIGNS REQUIRiNG PERMIT
A permit shall be required for the following signs:
BANNER
I. PEP~MITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM AREA: 0.5 square feet for every one foot of width of building or lease
space not to exceed fifty (50) square feet.
b. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) per site
c. DURATION: Maximum fifteen (15) days, twice per calendar year with a sixty (60) day
separation between permits.
MODEL HOME SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Monument an&or ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Five (5) feet for ground signs
b. MAXIMUM AREA: Sixty-four (64) square feet with a maximum of thirty-two (32)
square feet per sign face
c, MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) sign per builder per subdivision
d. MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS: Not applicable
SPECIAL PUP-d~OSE SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUC~TRE: Attached an&'or ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Nine (9) feet for ground signs
b. MAXIMUM AREA: Sixty-four (64) square feet with a maximum of thirty-two (32)
square feet per sign face
c. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: Six (6) total per event or occasion, not to exceed
five (5) off-site signs and one (1) on-site sign
d PLACEMENT TIME: Twenty-one (21) days, must be removed within three (3) days
after termination of the event. No more than twice a year.
e. MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS: Not applicable
RESIDENTIAL ADJACENCY: Not applicable
DEVELOPMENT SIGN
t. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Monument and/or ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Five (5) feet
b. MAXIMUM AREA: Sixty-four (64) square feet with a maximum of thirty-two (32)
square feet per sign face
c. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) per site
d. DURATION: Sign may be installed at any time after the issuance of the building permit
for a commercial development or approval of the developers agreement for a residential
subdivision. The sign must be removed ~{thin one (1) year or upon the issuance of a
certificate of occupancy for a commercial development and upon the issuance of a
/CITYDOCS\ORD!FINAL~IGNS!SIGN-704^ DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704'A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 13
certificate of occupancy on seventy-five percent (75%) of the lots within the subdivision
for a residential subdivision.
MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS: Not applicable
SEC 22 TEMPORARY SIGNS EXEMPT FROM PERMIT
A permit shall not be required for the following signs:
SUBDIVISION MARKETING SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) sign for every twenty (20) platted and
unoccupied lots, not to exceed a total of four (4) signs
b. LOCATION OF SIGNS: No sign may be placed closer than fifty feet (50') from an
intersecting R.O.W.
c. MINIMUM SETBACK: Not applicable
d. PLACEMENT TIME: 12:00 noon Friday to 5:00 a.m. Monday, prohibiting placement
between 4:00 pm. and 8:00 p.m. Friday and prohibiting pickup prior to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday.
e. DURATION: Signs may be placed upon subdivision approval. The signs shall be valid
for one (1) year from subdivision approval or upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy
on seventy-five percent (75%) of the lots.
f. PHASE OUT PROGRAM: Signs for houses permitted on or before 12/01/98 will be
allowed the following regulations:
i. DEFINITION: A temporary sign used to market or advertise residential
subdivisions and builders within the City of Southlake and direct interested
persons to the subdivision location
ii. MAXIMUM Nq. JMBER OF SIGNS: Three (3) signs advertising the same
item per grouping of signs
iii. LOCATION OF SIGNS: No sign may be placed closer than fifty feet (50')
from an intersecting R.O.W., signs advertising the same item may be no
closer than ten feet (10') apart
iv MINIMUM SETBACK: Not applicable
v PLACEMENT TIME: 12:00 noon Friday to 5:00 a.m. Monday, prohibiting
placement between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Friday and prohibiting pickup
prior to 7:00 p.m. Sunday.
vi After June 1. I999, section 22.A.2.f shall be deleted in its entirety.
BUILDER SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. DURATION: Signs may only be placed after issuance of a building permit and must be
removed upon the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
b. MINIMUM SETBACK: Not applicable
REAL ESTATE SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE: Attached, monument, anct/or ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MINIMUM LETTER / LOGO HEIGHT: Not applicable
b. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Five (5) feet above grade for ground signs; below roof line for
attached
c. MAXIMUM AREA: Sixty-four (64) square feet with a maximum of thh-ty-two (32)
square feet per sign face
d. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One (1) per site
e. MINIMUM SETBACK: Not applicable for ground signs four (4) square feet or less per
face in area
[ !C[TYDOCS/ORD/FINAL',.SIGNS~IGN ?04A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 14
WINT)OW SIGN
Window signs may not obscure more than fifteen percent (15%) of the window area per facade, measured
and located within ten (I0) vertical feet from the at-grade exterior entrance to the lease space. The area of
the sign shall be measured by the smallest box that could be drawn around the continuity of the sign (see
Appendix 'B' for further clarification). No illuminated window signs shall be allowed within two feet of
the u, indov, glazing except for open/closed s~gns.
GARAGE, YARD SALE SIGN
1 PERMIt ILD SIGN STRUCTURE: Ground
2X,~ IODIFICATIONS' ·FO GENERAL' REGULATIONS'
a. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: Four (4) per sale; not more than three (3) off-site
signs, with only one (1) off-site sign per sale along any one (1) of the nnmbered
highways (1709. 1938, 114): all signs must display the street address of sale
b. MINIMUM SETBACK: Not applicable
c. PLACEMENT TIME: 12:00 noon Thursday to 12:00 noon Monday or on any legal
holiday
d. FREQUENCY LIMITATION: Not to exceed twice per year
ARTICLE VI - EXEMPTIONS AND SPECIAL CONDITIONS
SEC. 23 EXEMPT SIGNS
The following signs are exempted from the requirements of this ordinance:
Vehicular signs, unless the sign is used or intended to be used as an on-site or off:site sign. It shall be
prima t'acie evidence that a s~gn is used as an on-site or off-site sign if a vehicle is parked at the same
location for a continuous period exceeding seventy-two (72) hours. No person shall attach any sign to a
trailer, skid, or similar mobile structure, where the primary use of such structure is to provide a base for
such sign or to constitute the sign itself. This provision shall not be interpreted to prohibit identification
signs on vehicles used for business purposes, nor shall it be interpreted to prohibit bumper stickers.
B. Warning and security signs.
Government signs and signs for non-profit organizations sponsored by government including flags,
insigma, legal notices, informational, directional, and traffic signs which are legally required or necessary
to the essential functions of government agencies.
D. "No Dumping" and "No Trespassing" signs.
Signs in public parks placed inside ballfield fencing by the City, which are intended for advertising to raise
funds for recreation programs which have copy on only one face with the copy facing toward the interior
of the field.
Political signs, unless affixed to the ground or a grounded structure located within public right-of-way or
on public property.
SEC. 24 NONCONFORMING EXISTING SIGNS
All signs that are lawfully in existence on the date of adoption of this ordinance may exist in their present
form, but no such signs shall be altered or moved unless a permit is issued pursuant to the provisions of this
ordinance. Permits granted prior to the passage of this ordinance shall be rene~ved only if the applicant
complies with all provisions of this ordinance.
Any legal, non-conforming sign which has been substantially destroyed or dismantled for any purpose
other than maintenance shall be deemed as completely destroyed if the cost of repairing the sign is morE.,.
L TITYDOCS',ORD/F[NAL~IGNSkSIGN-70aA DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 15
than 60% of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at the same location. Under this provision, the
sign shall be removed and a permit shall be required to erect a new sign~
SEC. 25 SIGN COPY
Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, any sign authorized in this ordinance is allowed
to contain non-commercial (ideological) copy in lieu of any other copy.
SEC. 26 APPENDICES
It is anticipated that the following appendices will be changed periodicaIly by the Building Official in
response to changes in the administration of this ordinance.
L ~,CIT~DOCS\ORD/FINAL~SIGNS~IGN-704A DOC SIGN ORDINANCE NO 704-A Approved December I, [998 Page ! 6
APPENDIX 'A'
METHODS OF AREA MEASUREMENT
ATTACHED SIGNS AND
GROUND SIGNS
EXHIBIT A 1 Attached sign
HEIGHT:
LETTER HEIGHT: 12"
MAXIMUM ALLOWED AREA: 22.5 s.f. (0.75 x 30)
MEASURED AREA SHOWN: 18 s.f. (3' x 6')
NOTES: Area limited to 0.75 square feet for every
one foot of width of building or lease space not to
exceed 400 square feet; signs shall be limited in
width to the middle seventy five percent (75%) of
the width of any single plane facade for any building
or lease space
14'
· 12'-- I 6'
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXHIBIT A-2 Attached signs
HEIGHT: 2' & 1'
LETTER HEIGHT: 10" & 12"
MAXIMUM ALLOWED AREAS: 15 s.f. (075 x 20)
&15sf (075x20)
MEASURED AREAS SHOWN: 15 s.f. (2'x 7.5') &
15 s.f. (1' x 15')
NOTES: Area limited to 0,75 square feet for every
one foot of width of building or lease space not to
exceed 400 square feet; signs shall be limited in
width to the middle seventy five percent (75%) of
the width of any single plane facade for any building
or lease space
40'
75%
F6-6"~--- 7'-6"~6'---
20'
EXHIBIT A-3 Ground sign
HEIGHT: 3'
MAXIMUM AREA ALLOWED: 4 s.f, per sign face
MEASURED AREA SHOWN: 4 s.f. (2' x 2')
I ,CIT'~ DOCS/OKDkFIN M/SIGNSkAPPNDX704A VSD SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 1 ?
APPENDIX 'A'
METHODS OF AREA MEASUREMENT
MONUMENT SIGNS
EXHIBIT A-4 Monument sign - attached lettering
HEIGHT 3'
MAXIMUM ALLOWED SIGN AREA: 50 sf per face
MEASURED SIGN AREA SHOWN: 27 sf (3' x 9')
MAXIMUM ALLOWED STRUCTURE AREA: 70 s.f. per face
MEASURED STRUCTURE AREA SHOWN: 48 s.f. (4' x 12')
12'
1,5' 9' 1.5'
NOTES: The sign structure must be constructed or covered
with the same masonry material as the principal building, or
stone, or brick. All sign text and graphic elements shall be
limited to a minimum of six (6) inches from the outer limits of
the sign structure. Sign may be illuminated utilizing a ground
lighting source, where the light itself and supporting structure
may not be visible from public R.O.W.
EXHIBIT A-5 Monument sign - sculpted aluminum panel
HEIGHT: 4'
MAXIMUM ALLOWED SIGN AREA: 50 s.f. per face
MEASURED SIGN AREA SHOWN: 50 sf. (4'x 12.5')
MAXIMUM ALLOWED STRUCTURE AREA: 70 s.f. per face
MEASURED STRUCTURE AREA SHOWN: 70 s.f. (5' x 14')
NOTES: The sign base and/or structure must be constructed
or covered with the same masonry material as the principal
building, or stone, or brick. All sign text and graphic elements
shall be limited to a minimum of six (6) inches from the outer
limits of the sign structure. Sculpted aluminum sign panels
may be illuminated utilizing internal lighting.
14'
--9" I 12.5'
SIGN
sloped ground
EXHIBIT A~6 Monument sign - masonry panel
HEIGHT: 3'
MAXIMUM ALLOWED SIGN AREA: 50 sf. per face
MEASURED SIGN AREA SHOWN: 27 s.f (3' x 9')
MAXIMUM ALLOWED STRUCTURE AREA: 70 s.f. per face
MEASURED STRUCTURE AREA SHOWN: 60 s.f. (5' x 12')
NOTES: The sign base and/or structure must be constructed
or covered with the same masonry material as the principal
building, or stone, or brick. All sign text and graphic elements
shall be limited to a minimum of six (6) inches from the outer
limits of the sign structure. Sign may be illuminated utilizing a
ground lighting source, where the light itselt-and supporting
structure may not be visible from public R.O.W.
1'-6" I
12'-
I
9' 1'-6"-
I
L CITYDOCS',OKDhClNAL SIGNS~,PPNDXTO~A VSD SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December l, 1998 Page 18
APPENDIX 'B'
SELECTED GRAPHIC CLARIFICATIONS
Sections 16A2 and 16A.4 - For any lease space which does not front on a street, the maximum letter / logo height shall be based
on the distance from the vehicular driveway access, Only one attached sign per street frontage shall be allowed on any site along
said street frontage, unless otherwise specifically provided. A secondary sign may be permitted at a public entrance, provided the
entrance is on another side of the building, but shall be limited to t~enty-five percent (25%) of the primary or permitted sign size,
whichever is more restrictive The six (6) inch minimum lettefllogo height will not apply to these secondary signs. No more than t~o
(2) attached signs shall be allowed per lease space.
Drive
Parking
i 20.
max. 18" letter/logo max. 18" letter/logo
max. 18" letter/logo
max. 12!¢~.
letter/logo I~, ~
L~
secondary sign secondary sign
25% area of primary sign 25% area of primary sign
Parking
Section 16A.4 - Attached signs shall be limited to within the first stoW of the main exterior entrance for a building or lease space.
Signs Signs Signs
Elevator
,,ClT'~DOCS ORDXF N \LS GNS ;PPNDX70~ \ YSD SIGN ORDINANCE NO. 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 19
APPENDIX 'B'
SELECTED GRAPHIC CLARIFICATIONS
Section 16.A.5 - Attached signs shall be limited in width to the middle seventy five percent (75%) of the width of any building
or lease space or single plane facade
75%
'SINE& SONS SIGNS'
. 75%--, 75%--,
i SUBS i
Section 16 A.6 - Signs shall be no closer vertically to the eave of the roofline or overhang than the permitted letter height.
24"'
t ,CITYDOCS'OKD~,FIN,'.L'SIGNSX.APPNDXTtMA VSD SIGN ORDINANCE NO 704-A Approved December 1, 1998 Page 20
APPENDIX 'B'
SELECTED GRAPHIC CLARIFICATIONS
Section 16.A.6 - Signs may be attached to a continuous plane fascia provided the sign does not extend above or below the
projection of the fascia. Such signs are only allowed when attached to structural canopy supported to the ground by
columns constructed of similar masonry material as the primary structure
Sign ·
Column
Section 22.D ~ Window signs may not obscure more than fifteen percent (15%) of the window area per facade, measured
and located within ten (10) vertical feet from the at-grade exterior entrance to the lease space. The area of the sign shall be
measured by the smallest box that could be drawn around the continuity of the sign. No illuminated window signs shall be
allowed within two feet of the window glazing except for open/closed signs
WINDOW AREA: 108 sf (9'x 12')
MAXIMUM ALLOWED WINDOW SIGN AREA:
16.2 s.f. (15% of 108 s.f.)
MEASURED WINDOW SIGN AREA SHOWN:
16 s.f. (2'x 8')
*SALE*
9'
12'
I ',CITYDO('S/ORI)XI:FN~t LSIGNS%&PPNDX?04~. %'SD SIGN ORDIN \NCE NO 704-A ,\pproved December 1 1998 Page 21
Star-Telegram FED. I.D. NO. 22-3148254 1417 7 6 61
AD ORDER NO.
400 W.SEVENTH.2?REET•FORT WORTH,TEXAS 76102 ACCOUNT NO. C IT 5 7
r
F
— .E STATE OF TEXAS
Unty of Tarrant
Before me, a Notary Public in and for said County and State, this day
Tammie Bryant
personally appeared Billing Specialist for the
Star-Telegram, published by the Star-Telegram Inc. at Fort Worth, in Tarrant County, Texas; and
who, after being duly sworn, did depose and say that the following clipping of an advertisement was
published in the above named paper on the following dates:
DATE AD ORDER NO. DESCRIPTION AD SIZE TOTAL RATE AMOUNT
INCH/LINE
12/04ME 14177661 CITY OF SOUTHLAK I358 1x 70Li 70 QUOTE 56 .
CITY OF 12/04-12/04
SOUTHLAKE TEXAS ..___-_-__.
ORDINANCE NO.704-A
SIGN ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING
FOR THE COMPREHENSIVE
REGULATION OF SIGNS --- -- - - - - - -- ---
WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF
SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS; PRO-
VIDING FOR FINDINGS AND
PURPOSES FOR THE ADOP-
TION OF THIS ORDINANCE;
PROVIDING FOR DEFINI-
TIONS- PROVIDING FOR AD-
MINISTRATION AND EN-
FORCEMENT PROVIDING
FOR THE ISSUANCE AND RE-
VOCATION OF SIGN PER-
MITS- PROVIDING FOR THE
REMOVAL OF SIGNS• PRO-
VIDING FOR APPEALS AND
VARIANCES; PROVIDING
FOR LIMITATIONS ON THE
LOCATION, SETBACK,
OTHEREGULTION •
OF SIGNS- PROHIBITING SIG
CERTAIN SIGNS'PROVIDING
FOR EXEMPT SIGNS,'ALLOW- 6th DECEMBER 1998
ING NONCOMMERCIAL
Sl SIGNSIDING YT HOP SWORN TO BEFORE ME, THIS THE DAY OF
THIS OOGPROVRDINANCE SHALL BE
CUMULATIVE OF ALL ORDI- '. .,- "--"-"" -� !•'�'�'�'�'�
NANCES PROVIDING A SEV- ir,.t":� ...-c
INGBFOR PENALISE;FOROVIO= 'A�='f RHONDA R. COKE otary Public �--0�.
PROVIDINGVI A SAVINGS irlitril COMMISSION EXPIRES
CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR `•IPUBLICATION IN PAMPHLET .: SEPTEMBER 8 1999 TARRANT COUNTY,TEXAS
FORM) PROVIDING FOR PUB- 444E"•p r
LICP ION IN THE OFFICIAL.
NEWSPAPER; AND PROVI0.ING AN EFFECTIVE
ATE.
Any person, firm or corpora- ORIGINAL INVOICE AND RECONCILE WITH MONTHLY STATEMENT. THANK YOU!
Lion who violates disobeys,
to comply with or who sres TEAR ALONG THIS PERFORATION AND RETURN THE LOWER PORTION WITH YOUR PAYMENT�A
- sof i the provisions of this oany- ---_.-�_-_-�
nance shall be fined not
more than Five Hundred Dol-
lars (S500.00/for each of-
Tense.Each day that a viola-
tion is permitted to exist shall constitute a separatY ram
offense. ,
HE
PASSED AND APPROVED BY REMIT TO: 400 W.SEVENTH-ST. •FORT WORTH,TEXAS 76102
CITY OFY SOUTHLAKE,TEX-
MAYOR RIICK STACY 1.1998 ACCOUNT C I T 5 7 56 • 7 0
ATTEST: AMOUNT
SANDRAL LEGRAND NUMBER DUE
CITY SECRETARY ,
APPROVED AS TO FORM•
E.ALLEN TAYLOR JR., I D IF ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL(817)390-7885
CITY SECRETARY S�ETARY I PAGE1
CITY OF SOUTHLAKE
667 N CARROLL AVE
SOUTHLAKE TX 76092-9595 PLEASE PAY , 56 . 70
THIS AMOUNT
PLEASE WRITE IN AMOUNT ENCLOSED