SB Item 5 - Ordinance 704-J Drafti
ORDINANCE NO. 704-JI
SIGN ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 704-H, AS AMENDED,
THE COMPREHENSIVE ORDINANCE REGULATING SIGNS WITHIN
THE CITY LIMITS OF SOUTHLAKE, TEXAS; PROVIDING A TITLE;
PROVIDING FOR PURPOSE AND INTENT FOR THE ADOPTION OF
THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING FOR
APPLICABILITY; PROVIDING FOR STANDARDS FOR TEMPORARY
AND PERMANENT SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR STANDARDS FOR SIGNS
REQUIRING PERMITS AND NOT REQUIRING PERMITS; PROHIBITING
CERTAIN SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR EXEMPT SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR
REQUIREMENTS FOR MASTER SIGN PLANS; ALLOWING
NONCOMMERCIAL (IDEOLOGICAL) COPY ON SIGNS; PROVIDING
FOR ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT; PROVIDING FOR THE
ISSUANCE AND REVOCATION OF SIGN PERMITS; PROVIDING FOR
THE REMOVAL OF SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR APPEALS AND
VARIANCES; 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 FORM; 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 the Local Government Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Southlake previously adopted
Ordinance No. 704-H as the Comprehensive Sign Ordinance of the City the provisions of
which have been codified as Chapter 15.5 of the Southlake City Code; and
WHEREAS, the City staff has recommended amendments to Ordinance No. 704-
H; and
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, welfare and aesthetics; and
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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 deems it necessary to amend Ordinance No.
704-H 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 Sign Ordinance of the City of Southlake is hereby amended and shall be and
read as set forth in Exhibit “A,” attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein,
which shall replace in full the regulations contained in Ordinance 704-H I and Chapter
15.5 of the Southlake City Code.
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.
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,
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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.
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-HI, Chapter 15.5 of the Southlake
City Code, 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 post the proposed
ordinance in its entirety on the City website 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
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this ordinance in the official City newspaper one time within ten (10) 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.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON FIRST READING ON THIS ___ DAY OF
_________, 2019.
__________________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:
__________________________________
CITY SECRETARY
PASSED AND APPROVED ON SECOND READING ON THIS _____ DAY OF
___________, 2019.
__________________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:
__________________________________
CITY SECRETARY
EFFECTIVE: _____________________
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
________________________________
City Attorney
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EXHIBIT A
Sign Ordinance
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Title 1
Section 2 – Purpose and Intent 1
Section 3 – Noncommercial Signs and Messages 1
Section 4 – Definitions 1
Section 5 – Applicability 10
5.1 – Nonconforming Existing Signs 10
5.2 – Prohibited Signs 1011
5.3 – Exemptions 12
5.4 – Limited Exemptions 14
Table 1 –Sign Regulations for Signs Exempt from the Requirement of a Sign
Permit
14
Table 2 – Standards for Window Signs 16
Table 2.1 - Standards for Service Entrance Door Signs 17
Section 6 – Permitted Temporary Signs and Specific Sign Regulations 18
6.1 – Temporary Signs Requiring a Permit 18
Table 3 – Regulations for Temporary Signs Requiring a Permit 18
Section 7 – Permanent Signs Requiring a Permit 21
7.1 – Wind Pressure and Deadload Requirements 21
7.2 – Sign Regulations 21
Table 4 – Attached Signs 21
Table 5 – Special Attached Sign Standards 23
Table 6 – Monument Signs for Businesses 24
Table 7 – Special Monument Sign Standards 25
Section 8 – Master Sign Plans 28
8.1 – Purpose 28
8.2 – Application Process 28
8.3 – Application Requirements 28
8.4 – Design Guidelines 29
Section 9 – Administration 36
9.1 – Role of the Administrative Official 36
9.2 – Sign Permit Required 36
9.3 – Application 36
9.4 – Fees 37
9.5 – Permit Expiration 37
9.6 – Appeals and Variances 37
9.7 – Responsibility for Enforcement 38
9.8 – Penalty for Violation 40
Section 10 - Severability 40
Section 11 – Conflicting Ordinances 41
Section 12 – Savings Clause 41
Section 13 – Publication Clause 41
Section 14 – Effective Date 41
Appendix A – Design Guidelines for Existing Building For Sale/Leasing Ground Signs 42
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SECTION 1. TITLE
This ordinance shall be known as the City of Southlake Sign Ordinance.
SECTION 2. PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose of this ordinance is to create the legal framework for a comprehensive and balan ced system
of signage in the City. These regulations are intended to provide an easy and pleasant communication
between people and their environment and avoid visual clutter that is potentially harmful to traffic and
pedestrian safety, property values, business opportunities, and community appearance. In addition to
protecting the health, welfare, and safety of the community, these standards are adopted in order to:
2.1 Maintain and enhance the aesthetics of our community;
2.2 Enhance automobile and pedestrian safety;
2.3 Encourage the integration of signage with landscaping and building design;
2.4 Protect and enhance scenic views and natural landscapes;
2.5 Protect and enhance economic viability of the City’s commercial corridors by assuring aesthetic
appeal to businesses and residents alike;
2.6 Promote the use of aesthetically pleasing sign materials, colors, and types; and
2.7 Require safe and effective signage.
SECTION 3. NONCOMMERCIAL SIGNS AND MESSAGES
Any sign that can be displayed under the provisions of this ordinance may contain a noncommercial
message.
SECTION 4. DEFINITIONS
Awnings
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICIAL: The department director
appointed by the City Manager to administer this
Ordinance, or the department director’s designee.
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.
ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL: Any projection, articulation,
relief, cornice, column, change of building material, window,
or door opening on any building.
ATTACH: To stick, tack, nail or otherwise affix a sign to any
object.
AWNING: A cloth, plastic, or other nonstructural covering
that either is permanently attached to a building or can be
raised or retracted to a position against the building when
not in use.
BANNER: See SIGN, BANNER.
BUILDING: A structure which has a roof supported by walls
for the shelter, support, or enclosure of persons, animals, or
chattel.
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (C.O.): An official
certificate issued by the City which indicates conformance
with building, zoning, and health and safety regulations and
authorizes legal use and occupancy of the premises for
which it is issued.
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Measuring setbacks and minimum distance
between monument signs
Measuring distance from the edge of
pavement for attached signs
CIVIC ORGANIZATION: An organization which offers
community programs to citizen, City or civic affairs groups.
COMMENCEMENT OF WORK: For construction of a sign,
commencement of work 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 Administrative Official has
any of the following characteristics:
(a) Where 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
(b) Where the structural support or frame members are
visibly bent, broken, dented, or torn; or
(c) 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.
DISTANCE BETWEEN SIGNS: The shortest straight line
horizontal distance between the nearest elements of signs.
DISTANCE FROM EDGE OF PAVEMENT: The shortest
straight line horizontal distance from the edge of the street
pavement to a vertical line to the ground from the nearest
element of the sign.
DISTANCE FROM PROPERTY LINE (also Setback from
Property Line): The shortest horizontal distance from the
nearest property line to a vertical line to the ground from the
nearest element of the sign.
DISTANCE FROM R.O.W.: 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.
DONATION BIN - A bin or similar structure used for the
collection of clothes or non-perishable food items.
ERECT: To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend
or affix. This shall also include the painting of signs on the
exterior surface 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
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Measuring letter and logo height
Example of a reverse channel letter
illuminated sign
Example of an illuminated sign
Example of a lifestyle image
directions within 45 degrees of one another, they are to be
considered as part of a single facade.
FUND RAISER: An activity that takes place for the sole
purpose of raising funds to support community service
organizations, public charities, or non-profit organizations.
HEIGHT, SIGN: 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 finished grade at the center of the base of the sign.
HEIGHT, LETTER/LOGO: The height of each individual
letter, logo, symbol, and/or icon in a sign.
ILLUMINATION: The enhancement of a sign utilizing
electric lights, luminous tubes or other similar means.
INDUSTRIAL AREAS: Areas characterized primarily by
uses such as manufacturing, processing, packaging,
assembly, storage, warehousing, and distribution of
products. These areas are typically zoned as B-1, B-2, I-1,
I-2, S-P-1/ S-P-2 with industrial uses.
LEASE SPACE: An area of a building separated internally
and intended for use by an individual tenant.
LIFESTYLE IMAGE: Photography which mainly aims to
capture portrait/people in situations, real-life events or
milestones in an artistic manner.
LOGO: Any registered or recognized symbol, letter, or
combination of symbols and letters used by an
organization, individual, company, or product for advertising
to identify that organization, individual, company, or
product.
MAIN STREET: Pedestrian oriented street located within
the DT (Downtown), TZD (Transitional Zoning District) or
ECZ (Employment Center Zoning) Districts.
MASONRY MATERIALS: Masonry materials include brick,
stucco, cement, concrete tilt wall, stone, or other masonry
or materials of equal characteristics.
OBSOLETE: Any sign which
(a) For at least 6 continuous months, does not identify or
advertise a bona fide business, lessor, service, owner,
product or activity on the premises on which the sign is
located; or
(b) If the premises is leased, relates to a tenant and at
least 6 months have elapsed since the date the most
recent tenant ceased to operate on the premises; or
(c) No legal owner can be found and relates to a use or
purpose that is no longer in existence.
OUTDOOR SALES OR SERVICES: The offer or display for
sale of any goods, wares, merchandise or services on
private property separate and apart from the main building
or at a location where there is no preexisting principal use.
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Sculpted Aluminum Panel
Measuring sign area for an attached sign
Measuring sign area on a monument sign
The goods, wares, merchandise or services offered for sale
as outdoor sales or services are normally not offered for
sale in the main building on the lot or in association with the
principal use.
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 tractor lot.
PUBLIC PROPERTY: Any property which is owned by a
governmental entity. It shall also include property for which
the primary use is for the operations of a governmental
entity.
RESIDENTIALLY ZONED PROPERTY: Any platted lot
within the RCS, SF-1A, SF-1B, SF-2, SF-30A, SF-30B, SF-
20A, SF-20B, R-PUD, MF-1, and MF-2 zoning districts.
Also included in this definition are all residentially
designated lots in the DT, TZD and EC zoning districts.
RIGHT-OF-WAY (R.O.W): A strip of land, other than a
drainage or utility easement, occupied or intended to be
occupied by a street, crosswalk, railroad, road, electric
transmission line, oil or gas pipeline, water main, sanitary or
storm sewer main, or for another special purpose.
SCULPTED ALUMINUM PANEL: An aluminum sign panel
with text, sculpted 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 property line.
SIDEWALK: A pedestrian walkway that is grade-separated
from the adjacent street or drive when located adjacent to a
street or drive.
SIGHT TRIANGLE: Refer to the Subdivision Ordinance.
The sight triangle shall also be applicable to drives.
SIGN: Every sign, name, number, identification,
description, 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 AREA: A two-dimensional area on a building or other
permitted sign structure that is free of architectural details
and is the area that encompasses the proposed sign in its
entirety.
SIGN AREA, AGGREGATE: The sum total of all the
window and interior sign area on the aggregate window
area available per tenant.
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Example of a banner sign
Example of a barber pole
Example of a blade sign
Example of an cabinet box sign
Example of an cabinet box sign
“pill box” or “capsule” sign
Example of a channel letter sign
Examples of existing commercial buildings
For Lease and For Sale signs
SIGN, ATTACHED: Any sign 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, ATTACHED BUSINESS: A permanent attached on-
site sign that is used to identify a business, profession,
organization, institution, service, activity or other
nonresidential use conducted, sold or offered on the site
where such sign is located. This sign may also identify the
name of the site or development or may identify the
occupants within the site or development. A primary
business sign is attached to a façade facing a street or
vehicular driveway access.
SIGN, BANNER: A temporary on-site sign made of cloth,
flexible plastic or canvas material.
SIGN, BARBER POLE: An attached sign mounted on the
face of the building that is cylindrical in shape with striped
face, lit internally and rotates during business hours.
SIGN BASE: See sign, monument.
SIGN, BLADE: An attached sign oriented perpendicular to
the face of the building which projects more than twelve
(12) inches beyond the surface of the building to which it is
affixed or supported.
SIGN, BOARD: An advisory board, under responsibility of
the Planning and Zoning Commission, that makes
recommendations to the City Council on master sign plans,
sign variances and sign ordinance amendments.
SIGN, BOXED CABINET: An attached sign that is mounted
on the face of a building provides for internal illumination
and changing of the message of the sign by replacing a
single transparent or translucent material such as a
Plexiglas/lexan face. Also referred to as a “pill box” or a
“capsule”sign.
SIGN, BULLETIN BOARD: A permanent ground sign or
monument sign within a residential subdivision for
displaying news and information for subdivision residents.
SIGN, BUSINESS MONUMENT: A permanent on-site
monument sign that is used to identify a business,
profession, organization, institution, service, activity or other
nonresidential use conducted, sold or offered on the site
where such sign is located. This sign may also identify the
name of the site or development or may identify the
occupants within the site or development.
SIGN, CAFÉ UMBRELLA: A sign painted on or otherwise
affixed to an umbrella at an establishment with outdoor
seating.
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Examples of Development/Construction
Signs
Example of a directional sign
Example of a drive through sign
Example of a Flat Panel A Sign
Example of a Flat Panel B Sign
SIGN, CHANNEL LETTER: A fabricated three dimensional
metal or plastic letter which includes a light source and a
plastic face. Channel letters are mounted to a wall.
SIGN, EXISTING COMMERCIAL BUILDING FOR LEASE
OR SALE GROUND: A temporary ground sign pertaining
to the sale or lease of the building on the lot or tract of land
on which the sign is located, or to the sale or lease of one
or more structures, or a portion thereof located thereon.
SIGN, CORPORATE FLAG: A sign made of cloth or similar
material, attached to a pole used to identify a place of
business or organization. This definition does not
include the flag of any country, state, city, county or
governmental entity.
SIGN, NON-RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT/
CONSTRUCTION: A temporary on-site ground sign
identifying the developing new nonresidential tracts or lots
and which can also contain the names of the architects,
engineers, contractors and similar artisans in the design or
construction of the structure or project. This sign pertains to
a new non-residential development that has been approved
by the City and is under construction.
SIGN, RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT/CONSTRUCTION:
A temporary on-site ground sign identifying the developing
new residential tracts or lots and which can also contain the
names of the builders and similar artisans in the design or
construction of the project. This sign pertains to a new
residential development of four or more lots that is have
been approved by the City and is under construction.
SIGN, DIRECTIONAL: A permanent on-site attached sign
intended to aid in vehicular movement on the site.
SIGN, DIRECTORY: A permanent on-site attached or
monument sign providing direction to or identifying the
buildings in the development.
SIGN, DRIVE THROUGH: A permanent on-site attached or
monument sign located immediately adjacent to, within, or
over a drive through lane that is associated with sales
conducted from an automobile.
SIGN, DRIVE THROUGH – NON-FOOD SERVICE: A drive
through sign associated with sales from an automobile that
are not related to food service sales.
SIGN, ESTATE SALE: A temporary ground sign intended to
advertise an estate sale, conducted primarily indoors, on
residential property.
SIGN, EXISTING BUILDING FOR SALE/LEASING: An on-
site sign intended to advertise a building or buildings for
sale or lease after the building(s) have been occupied for a
year or more.
Formatted: Centered
Formatted: Centered
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Example of a light pole banner sign
Example of a menuboard sign
Elements of a monument sign
SIGN FACE: The surface of one side of a sign.
SIGN, FLAT PANEL A: An attached non-internally
illuminated sign that contains routed or embossed text
and/or logo affixed on a single metal plate or sandblasted
on stone less than 2” in thickness.
SIGN, FLAT PANEL B: An attached non-internally
illuminated sign that contains digitally printed or cut vinyl
text and/or logo affixed on a single metal plate or pan face
less than 2” in thickness; to include individually cut non-
illuminated letters ≤2” in depth. Permitted only in Industrial
Areas as defined.
SIGN, GARAGE/YARD SALE: A temporary ground or
banner sign intended to advertise garage sales or yard
sales.
SIGN, GASOLINE PRICING: Permanent on-site
monuments 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, GRAND OPENING BANNER: A banner permitted
within 1 year of the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy
(C.O.) for a business.
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, HOLIDAY: Any sign that is associated with the
celebration of a recognized holiday or celebration.
SIGN, HOME OCCUPATION: An attached on-site sign at
the entrance of a home occupation.
SIGN, LAND: A temporary on-site ground sign on vacant
land intended to advertise land for sale including unplatted
tracts of land.
SIGN, LIGHT POLE BANNER: A banner sign attached to a
light pole along a public street or within a public park.
SIGN, MENUBOARD: A drive through sign associated with
menu and pricing for food services and may include an
audible speaker and microphone integral to the sign.
SIGN, MODEL HOME: A temporary on-site real estate sign
identifying a homebuilder’s model home open for
inspection.
SIGN, MONUMENT: Any sign which is connected to the
ground and which has no clear space for the full width of
the sign between the bottom of the sign and the surface of
the ground. A monument sign includes a sign face and sign
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Example of a sign panel
Example of a Parks and Recreation banner
sign (Displayed on the Rustin Park pavilion)
Examples of a residential builder sign
Examples of a reverse channel letter
structure, and may also include a sign base and sign cap as
described below:
(a) SIGN BASE: The above-ground foundation of the sign,
which includes the exposed concrete footing for the
sign.
(b) SIGN FACE: The surface of the sign in which the sign
message is located.
(c) SIGN STRUCTURE: The structure surrounding the
sign face.
(d) SIGN CAP: A part of the sign structure located above
the sign face that is constructed of a different masonry
material and/or extends horizontally from the rest of the
sign structure.
SIGN, NEW CONSTRUCTION FOR SALE/LEASING: A
temporary on-site sign intended to advertise a newly
constructed existing building or buildings for sale or lease.
SIGN, NON-ILLUMINATED: Three dimensional metal or
plastic letters with ≥ 2” depth that is completely non-
illuminated by internal or external light sources.
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 sign, 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 PANEL: Any separate, single panel or piece of
material containing a word or symbol legend or individual
message that is affixed to the face of a sign. Each sign
panel shall be uniform in size.
SIGN, PANEL REPLACEMENT: The replacement of a
panel on an existing sign that does not alter the sign.
SIGN, PARKS AND RECREATION BANNER: A banner
displayed on public park property.
SIGN PERMIT: The official authorization by the City to
alter, erect, or display any sign not exempted by this
ordinance.
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: A sign that utilizes alternating
electronic data control components or a sign comprised of
non-permanent letters, numerals or symbols, which allows
9
Example of a roof sign
Example of a sandwich board sign
Example of a service entrance door
Example of exposed string lights
Example of a subdivision entry sign
Vehicular sign
a change of sign copy by adding, removing or rearranging
said letters, symbols or numerals.
SIGN, RESIDENTIAL BUILDER: A temporary on-site sign
identifying the builder or general contractor of a residential
construction site.
SIGN, RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE: A temporary on-site
sign identifying existing residential buildings and/or lots for
sale or lease on all residentially zoned and platted lots.
SIGN, RESTRICTED PARKING: A temporary or permanent
sign in a parking lot that restricts parking for any reason.
SIGN, REVERSE CHANNEL: A sign that has opaque
channel letter faces and sides with illumination inside the
letter cavity that shines out the back of the letter. These back
lit letters are mounted away from the wall so a halo forms
behind them. A clear polycarbonate back prevents animals
from nesting inside the letter. These types of signs are also
called "halo lit" or "backlit" letters.
SIGN, ROOF: Any sign that is:
(a) Erected on a vertical framework supported by and
located immediately and entirely over the roof of a
building; or
(b) Attached to a fascia extending above or below the
projection of the fascia; or
(c) Painted or otherwise affixed on a roof; or
(d) Displayed above the eave line of a sloped roof or
parapet of a flat roof.
SIGN, SANDWICH BOARD: A portable sign consisting of
two panels of equal size, which are hinged at the top and
placed on the ground or pavement so as to be self-
supporting.
SIGN, SERVICE ENTRANCE DOOR: Signs attached to an
entrance door are allowed for building identification with
lettering not to exceed 4” in height and no greater than two
(2) square feet. The sign may include the telephone number,
business name and suite number.
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 STRUCTURE: See SIGN, MONUMENT.
SIGN, EXPOSED STRING LIGHTS: Exposed visible light
bulbs on an electrical cord typically hung on a patio area for
decorative purposes.
SIGN, SUBDIVISION ENTRY: Any permanent on-site sign
identifying a residential subdivision.
SIGN, SUBDIVISION MARKETING/OPEN HOUSE: A
temporary sign used to market or advertise residential
10
Example of window sign
Example of window display
Example of Window Area Aggregate
subdivisions/open houses within the City and to direct
interested persons to the subdivision/open house 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, UPPER STORY: An attached sign located on a
multistory building that is either displayed above the ceiling
level of the first story and/or displayed 20 feet or more
above grade of the closest roadway surface.
SIGN, VEHICULAR: Any sign which is attached to or
supported by a vehicle, trailer, other sign apparatus, or is
located within a vehicle and is visible.
SIGN WALKER (HUMAN DIRECTIONAL SIGN): A person,
visible from the public R.O.W. that is holding, twirling, or
wearing a sign, wearing lights, or wearing a costume to
draw attention to a business, project, place, or event.
SIGN, WAYFINDING: A government sign that provides
direction to locations and facilities.
SIGN, WINDOW: Any sign affixed to any internal and/or
external surface of a window or is located less than ten
(10’) feet from the window of any establishment. In addition,
any sign displayed in window area that is used to describe
in-store sales, promotions, etc.
SIGN, WINDOW DISPLAY: Any display of goods,
merchandise, products or lifestyle images as in a window
designed to attract customers.
SITE: A lot, tract or building pad.
ADOPTED STREET TYPOLOGY MAP: The component of
the City’s Mobility & Master Thoroughfare Plan, a
component element of the Southlake 2025 Plan, showing
street typologies, which are overlay designations to the
functional classification system of the City’s roadway
network linking street functionality with design priorities for
all street types.
TEMPORARY STRUCTURE: A structure without any
foundation or footings.
WINDOW AREA, AGGREGATE: The sum total of all the
window area on a façade per tenant.
SECTION 5. APPLICABILITY
With the exception of the exemptions set fort h in Section 5.3 of this ordinance, no sign shall be erected,
altered, or displayed within the City of Southlake without a duly approved sign permit.
5.1 NONCONFORMING EXISTING SIGNS
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All signs that are lawfully in existence on the date of adoption of this o rdinance 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 renewed
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 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.
5.2 PROHIBITED SIGNS
All of the following signs are prohibited unless a pproved by City Council.
5.2.1 Signs attached to light fixtures, poles, curbs, sidewalks, gutters, streets, utility poles, public
buildings, fences, railings, public telephone poles, or trees, excluding political signs on private
property.
5.2.2 Signs which prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape.
5.2.3 Signs erected or displayed 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 observing a sight triangle as provided for in Section 4 "Definitions."
5.2.4 Any sign which interferes with vehicular or pedestrian traffic as a result of the position, size,
shape, movement, color, fashion, manner, or intensi ty of illumination or any other
characteristics causing such interference. No person shall 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 dev ice, 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.
5.2.5 Signs erected or displayed on or over public right-of-way (R.O.W) or other public property,
excluding wayfinding signs and signs erected by the City, County, State or other author ized
governmental agency, or with the permission of the City, for public purposes.
5.2.6 Signs directly painted on buildings, except for signs less than a five (5) square foot area used
for building identification.
5.2.7 Obscene signs 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 community standards relating to the
description or representation of sexual matters, and is utterly without redeeming social value.
5.2.8 Portable signs, with the exception of sandwich board signs which comply with the regulations
set forth in Section 6.
5.2.9 Signs with exposed neon tube, except for open/closed window signs.
5.2.10 Signs illuminated to such intensity or in such a manner as to c ause a glare or brightness to a
degree that it constitutes a hazard or nuisance to traffic.
5.2.11 No exposed LED lights or other similar lighting in or framing windows, including attached to the
window frames.
5.2.12 Signs that move or flash or have mov ing or flashing components; signs that are intermittently
lighted or have changing colors; signs that revolve; or any other similarly constructed signs.
5.2.13 Readerboard signs, with the exception of bulletin board signs, drive through signs, and gasoline
pricing signs which comply with the regulations set forth in Section 7.2.
5.2.14 Illuminated signs 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 the intensity as specified in Lighting Ordinance No.
693-B, as amended.
5.2.15 Roof signs.
5.2.16 Any sign attached to a trailer, skid, or similar mobile structure, or vehicle sign where the primary
use of such structure is to provide a base for such sign or to constitute the sign itself. This
12
provision shall not be interpreted to prohibit identification signs on vehicles used for normal
business purposes, nor shall it be interpre ted to prohibit bumper stickers. Vehicles with signage
are only in violation if the vehicle is parked in a manner for an extended period or off -site from
the business location such as overnight in a manner where it is visible from the street.
5.2.17 Sign walkers.
5.2.18 Structural, non-structural additions or attachments to monument signs, excluding structural
modifications for which a valid permit has been issued.
5.2.19 Boxed cabinet signs, capsule, or pill box signs attached to buildings.
5.2.20 Awning signs.
5.2.21 Commercial signage on grocery cart corrals (“Return cart here” signs under 6 square feet are
permitted).
5.2.22 Signs illuminated with anything other than white light or a similar type light unless approved by
the Administrative Official.
5.2.23 Any lighting projected onto a building, excluding customary exterior building and site
illumination (as determined by the Administrative Official) and permitted sign illumination .
5.2.24 Upper story signs, unless approved as part of a Master Sign Plan or varia nce.
5.2.25 Sign attached to a vehicle advertising the sale of the vehicle where the vehicle is parked in
such a way that the sign attracts the attention of or informs persons using the public right -of-
way.
5.2.26 Vertically oriented signs unless specifically permitted by the ordinance.
5.2.27 Channel cut letters (internally or externally illuminated) mounted to a sign backer.
5.2.28 Graffiti is specifically prohibited within the city. The owner of property on which graffiti is located
shall remove all graffiti with 72 hours of notice.
5.2.29 Flat panel signs located in non-industrial areas as defined.
5.2.30 Any sign not specifically permitted by this ordinance.
5.3 EXEMPTIONS
The following signs are exempt from the requirements of this ordinance:
5.3.1 Warning and security signs, including signs placed by a public utility for the safety, welfare, or
convenience of the public, including, but not limited to signs identifying high voltage, public
telephone, or underground cables.
5.3.2 Government signs and signs for non-profit organizations sponsored by government including
flags, insignia, legal notices, informational, directional, and traffic signs which are legally
required or necessary to the essential functions of government agencies.
5.3.3 "No Dumping" and "No Trespassing" signs, less than two (2) square feet in area per sign face.
5.3.4 Signs in public parks placed inside ball field fencing by the City, which are intended for
advertising to raise funds for recreation programs which have copy on on ly one face with the
copy facing toward the interior of the field.
5.3.5 Signs attached to a temporary structure utilized specifically for outdoor sales or services or any
other signs which are approved in a specific use permit authorizing the outdoor sales or
services.
5.3.6 Signs attached to a donation bin.
5.3.7 Signs associated with fund raisers/sales, provided that the activity is an authorized accessory
use as defined in Zoning Ordinance 480 as amended.
5.3.8 Non-illuminated names of buildings, dates of e rection, monument statues, commemorative
tablets and the like when carved into stone, concrete, metal, or any other permanent type of
construction and made an integral part of an allowed structure or made flush to the ground.
Monumental commemorative sculpture and/or graphic art in any medium and including images
depicting real or allegorical persons, non-commercial themes or symbols, historical scenes and
events or idealized scenes, and inscribed dedications or quotations, permanently attached to
and incorporated into the overall design of all or part of one or more facades of a community
center, religious institution, school, library, museum, hospital, or similar public or private, non -
profit, institutional or civic structures.
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5.3.9 Any traffic sign, public notice or warning required by a valid and applicable federal, state, or
local law, regulation, or ordinance.
5.3.10 Traffic control signs on private property, such as Stop, Yield, and similar signs, and which
contain no commercial message.
5.3.11 Address signs no greater than five (5) square feet in area. Address signs in excess of five (5)
square feet in area shall be considered attached business signs and shall be counted toward
the area of signage permitted on a building façade or monument sign.
5.3.12 Retail store window displays of merchandise, freestanding three-dimensional promotional
items (with or without proprietary words or symbols solely describing the merchandise and/or
merchandise that is sold in the store), and/or display fixtures not affixed to windowpanes.
5.3.13 Holiday season decorations, school, religious organizations and college periodic event signs
with no commercial message.
5.3.14 Restricted parking signs required or authorized by city ordinance or by law, including but not
limited to handicap parking signs.
5.3.15 Outdoor exposed string lights (patio lights) are permitted in commercial outdoor dining/patio
areas per the requirements of Section 7.2, Table 5, Item 6.
5.3.16 Corporate Flags. Corporate flags are exempt from the Sign Code subject to the following
conditions:
(1) No more than one corporate flag may be flown per eligible parcel of land.
(2) The corporate flag shall not be larger than a government flag, if one is flown, and in no
case shall the flag length or width exceed 20% of the permitt ed flag pole height within the
zoning district.
(3) All corporate flags must be flown at the same height or below any government flag flown.
(4) Corporate flags may display only the name, corporate emblem and/or logo of a given
corporation. Slogans and tag lines are not permitted.
(5) Corporate flags are not permitted on properties used for agricultural, residential or retail
uses or activities.
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5.4 LIMITED EXEMPTIONS
The following signs are exempt from the requirement for a sign permit as long as they meet the corresponding standards, as listed in Tables 1
and 2.
Table 1: Summary of Sign Regulations for Signs Exempt from the Requirement of a Sign Permit
1. The angle for V-shaped ground signs shall not exceed 90 degrees.
2. Temporary ground signs may be displayed at or behind the property line. Temporary ground signs may not be displayed on public R.O.W.,
including medians.
3. For temporary ground signs, sign height is measured as the vertical distance between the grade of the closest roadway surface and the top
of the sign.
4. 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 City’s currently adopted Building Code.
Type of Sign Temporary/
Permanent
Sign
Structure
Permitted
/ Type
Maximum Sign
Height
Maximum Sign
Area
Number of Signs Duration/Time Limitation Other Standards
1. Model Home
Sign/Residential
Sales Trailer
Temporary Ground 5 feet
64 s.f. for a two-
sided sign; 32
s.f. per sign
face
1 per site Must be removed upon sale of the
house.
2. Subdivision
Marketing Sign/
Open House
Sign
Temporary Ground 3 feet 8 s.f.; 4 s.f. per
sign face
1 on-site sign. Not
to exceed 4 off-site
signs.
Signs may be displayed between noon
on Friday to 5 am Monday, prohibiting
placement between 4 pm and 8 pm
Friday and requiring pickup prior to 6
am on Monday.
All signs must display
the telephone number
of the real estate
broker, sales agent,
homeowner, or builder.
3. Residential
Builder Sign Temporary Ground 3 feet 8 s.f.; 4 s.f. per
sign face 1 per site
Installed after issuance of building
permit; must be removed upon
issuance of CO.
4. Residential
Real Estate
Sign/ For
Sale/For Lease
or Rent
Temporary Ground 6 feet 24 s.f.; 12 s.f.
per sign face
1 ground sign per
site No limitation
5. Land Sign Temporary Ground
5 feet as
measured from
the finished
grade of the
street in front of
the sign.
64 s.f.; 32 s.f.
per sign face
1 sign per street
frontage.
Shall be removed when a building
permit is obtained for development on
the subject property.
15
Type of Sign Temporary/
Permanent
Sign
Structure
Permitted
/ Type
Maximum Sign
Height
Maximum Sign
Area
Number of Signs Duration/Time Limitation Other Standards
6. Garage/Yard /
Estate Sale Sign Temporary Ground 3 feet 8 s.f.; 4 s.f. per
sign face
4 per sale; not more
than 3 off-site signs
with only one sign
per sale along any
one of the numbered
highways (1709,
1938, 114)
Noon on Thursday to noon on Monday
or any legal holiday. Not to exceed
twice per year.
7. Political Sign Temporary No
limitation 8 feet 72 s.f.; 36 s.f.
per sign face No limit
Signs associated with an election must
be removed within 7 days after the
election.
Signs shall not be
displayed on city
property or on public or
TXDOT R.O.W.
8. Home
Occupation Sign Permanent Attached NA 1 s.f. 1 per site NA
Must be non-
illuminated. Shall be
mounted flat against
the wall at the
entrance of the home
occupation.
9. Replace Sign
Panel
Temporary/
Permanent
Monument
, ground,
or
attached
No permit is required
as long as the sign is
not altered (see
definition of “alter”).
10. Vehicular
Sign
Temporary/
Permanent Vehicular NA NA NA
Vehicles, trailers, and other sign apparatus parked overnight
shall not be located in front of the building or lease space and,
when possible, shall be located to the rear or side of the building
not facing a public street. Vehicles may be parked in front of the
lease space during active business hours for loading and
unloading only for no more than 4 hours. All vehicles must bear
current license plates, registration and be operational.
11. Restricted
Parking Sign
Temporary/
Permanent
Affixed to
curb NA 2 s.f.
1 per 25 parking
spaces, but not less
than 2 per tenant
NA
Limited to black
lettering with a white
background.
12. Café
Umbrella Sign Temporary NA NA NA NA NA
Letter/logo height is
limited to 8 inches.
Signage may only be
displayed on the flap of
the umbrella.
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Table 2: Standards for Window Signs
Window signs that meet the following standards shall be exempt from permit requirements. Window signs that do not meet the f ollowing standards
shall be prohibited unless approved as part of a Master Sign Plan.
Number of signs
per window
Maximum Aggregate
Area for all signage* Comments
4 10% of the window area
The following shall be exempt from this limitation:
• Addresses, non-illuminated closed/open signs, hours of operation, credit card logos, real estate signs,
and now hiring signs
• Mannequins and storefront displays of merchandise sold (Any signs describing in-store promotions,
sales, etc. shall be considered to be window signs and not part of the display and must meet the
window sign requirements of this ordinance).
• Interior directory signage identifying shopping aisles and merchandise display areas.
*An individual window is defined as an area of fenestration that is totally bounded by the principal building material and may include all transparent and translucent areas of windows
and doors.
Aggregate sign area is defined as a sum total of all the window and interior sign area on the aggregate window area available per tenant.
Lifestyle Images - Number of signs per
window Maximum Aggregate Area for all signage Comments
No Limit 50%
Lifestyle images visible from the window cannot exceed 50% of
total window area of a façade and must be non-illuminated.
Lifestyle images attached directly to the window are classified as
a window sign.
The following standards shall apply to illuminated open signs:
Number of
Illuminated Open
Signs
Maximum Sign Face
Area Additional Regulations
1 per street frontage 4 s.f.
• Sign(s) shall only read “OPEN”.
• Sign(s) shall only be located in the window of the business.
• Sign(s) shall be placed no higher than 7 feet above the finished floor.
• Sign(s) shall not blink, flash, oscillate or intermittently turn on and off.
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Table 2.1 Standards for Service Entrance Door Signs
Signs attached to a service entrance door for building identification
Number of Signs Maximum Sign Face Area Additional Regulations
1 per service door 2 s.f.
• Lettering not to exceed 4” in height
• Limited to two (2) square feet in area
• Sign limited the telephone number, business name and suite number.
• No logos
Example of a Service Door Entry
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SECTION 6: PERMITTED TEMPORARY SIGNS AND SPECIFIC SIGN REGULATIONS
6.1 TEMPORARY SIGNS REQUIRING A PERMIT
1. 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 City’s currently adopted Building Code.
2. The sign regulations for temporary signs requiring a permit are outl ined in Table 3.
Table 3: Regulations for Temporary Signs Requiring a Permit
Sign Type
Permitted
Sign
Structure
Max. Sign
Height
Maximum
Sign Face
Area
Number of
Signs
Location/
Minimum
Setback
Duration Additional Regulations
1. Banner Attached NA
0.5 s.f. for every
1 foot of width
of building or
lease space, but
not limited to
less than 20 s.f.
and not to
exceed 60 s.f.
1 per lease space Attached to
the building
15 days, twice per calendar year
with a 60 day separation
between permits
The width of the sign shall not
exceed the storefront width.
2. Grand
Opening
Banner
Attached NA
0.75 s.f. for
every 1 foot of
width of building
or lease space,
but not limited
to less than 30
s.f. and not to
exceed 80 s.f.
1 per street
frontage
Attached to
the building
15 days. May be displayed one
time within 1 year of issuance of
CO.
Permitted in addition to the two
banner permits allowed in a
calendar year.
The width of the sign shall not
exceed the storefront width.
3. Special
Purpose Sign
Attached or
ground
9 feet for
ground signs
64 s.f.; 32 s.f.
per sign face
5 off-site signs
and 1 on-site sign
At or behind
the property
line; not to
be placed on
public ROW.
21 days, must be removed within
3 days after termination of event.
No more than twice a year.
For events sponsored by non-profit
and civic organizations. The angle
for V-shaped signs shall not
exceed 90 degrees.
4. Parks &
Recreation
Banner
Attached or
ground NA 72 sq.ft.
(maximum) 3 per public park
Cannot be
placed within
any public
R-O-W
15 days per permit, with a total of
2 permits approved
consecutively
All banners in public parks shall be
approved by the Community
Services Department prior to
application submittal to the
Planning Department.
19
Sign Type
Permitted
Sign
Structure
Max. Sign
Height
Maximum
Sign Face
Area
Number of
Signs
Location/
Minimum
Setback
Duration Additional Regulations
5. Light Pole
Banners Attached NA 10 sq. ft. per
sign face 1 per light pole NA As approved by City Council.
• All light pole banners shall be
approved by the appropriate
utility company prior to
consideration by City Council.
Light pole banners shall be
limited to publicize community-
wide events, holiday
celebrations, public art, and
other city sponsored events.
6. Sandwich
Board Signs NA 4 feet 8 s.f. 1 per lease space
Permitted
only on
sidewalks
along Main
Streets and
internal
driveways.
Sign shall be removed every day
after the business is closed.
• Sign may not exceed 2 feet in
width.
• A minimum of 4 feet of sidewalk
shall remain clear.
• Chalkboards may be used for
daily changing of messages.
No readerboards may be used.
7. New
Construction
For
Sale/Leasing
Sign
Temporary
- Attached
or ground
5 feet for
ground signs
Ground Signs:
64 s.f.; 32 s.f.
per sign face for
all non-
residential
zoning districts.
1 ground sign per
site per street
frontage and one
window sign shall
also be allowed
per lease space
for commercial
properties, not to
exceed 10% of the
window area.
At or behind
the property
line; not to
be placed on
public ROW.
Permit may be issued only after
approval of building permit and
shall be removed one year after
erection of the sign. The sign
shall be removed if the building is
one hundred (100) percent
occupied prior to the one year
time period.
8. Restricted
Parking Sign
Temporary
or
permanent
ground sign
5 feet 2 s.f.
1 per 25 parking
spaces, but not
less than 2 per
tenant
NA NA Limited to black lettering with a
white background.
9. Non-
Residential
Development
/Construction
Sign
Temporary/
Ground
5 feet for a
two-sided
sign or 7 feet
for a one-
sided sign
64 s.f.; 32 s.f.
per sign face for
a two-sided sign
or 48 s.f. for a
one-side sign
1 per street
frontage per
development.
At or behind
the property
line; not to
be placed on
public ROW.
May be installed after approval of
a site plan or concept plan. Sign
must be removed within one year
of erection of the sign or upon
issuance of a C.O. for all
buildings on the site.
20
Sign Type
Permitted
Sign
Structure
Max. Sign
Height
Maximum
Sign Face
Area
Number of
Signs
Location/
Minimum
Setback
Duration Additional Regulations
10.
Residential
Development
/Construction
Sign
Temporary/
Ground
5 feet 48 s.f.; 24 s.f.
per sign face
1 per street
frontage,
excluding
residential streets
(Not permitted to
front on a
residential street)
At or behind
the property
line; not to
be placed on
public ROW.
May be installed after approval of
a site plan or concept plan. Sign
must be removed within one year
of erection of the sign or upon
issuance of a C.O. for all buildings
on the site.
11. Existing
Commercial
Building For
Sale/Leasing
Sign
Temporary/
Ground
5 feet plus a
max. of a 9
inch finial on
top of each
post.
24 s.f.; 12 s.f.
per sign face.
1 sign per per
platted lot.
At or behind
the property
line; not to
be placed on
public ROW.
a. Permitted only when space is
available for lease or sale on the
same site.
b. The sign shall be removed
when the building is one hundred
(100) percent occupied.
c. The property owner or
authorized management
company (but in no case the sign
contractor) shall submit a
notarized affidavit with all permit
applications for sign on a form
provided by the City. Said affidavit
shall certify that the building is
less than one hundred (100)
percent occupied, exclusive of
common areas.
d. The sign permit shall be valid
for a period of not more than one
year or when the structure
becomes one hundred (100)
percent occupied, exclusive of
common areas, whichever comes
first. The permit may be renewed
annually provided the building is
less than one hundred (100)
percent occupied, exclusive of
common areas.
e. In lieu of providing an affidavit
certifying that the building is less
than one hundred (100) percent
occupied, the property owner or
authorized Management
Company may provide a
notarized affidavit showing that a
vacancy will occur within thirty
(30) days.
• See Appendix A for standards.
• The sign type is not permitted
to be installed if a new
construction for sale/lease sign
is currently installed within the
development.
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SECTION 7. PERMANENT SIGNS REQUIRING A PERMIT
7.1 WIND PRESSURE AND DEADLOAD REQUIREMENTS
All permanent 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 City’s currently adopted Building Code. The sign permit ap plication must
include a statement signed by the applicant which states compliance with this requirement.
7.2 SIGN REGULATIONS
The sign regulations for permanent signs requiring a permit are outlined in Tables 4 (Attached Signs), 5 (Special Attached Signs), and 6
(Monument Signs).
Table 4: Attached Signs
1. Permitted attached signs include the following:
a) Individually-mounted non-illuminated (internal or external) three dimensional metal or plastic letters with ≥2” depth may occupy 100
percent of the permitted area and may be of any color.
a)b) Reverse Channel Sign (any color letter). Back light color shall be limited to white or off white. No illumination shall have exposed bulbs
whether they are LED or any other type
b)c) Individually-mounted channel letters that comply with the following rules:
• If the sign only contains words and no logo, the lettering may occupy 100 percent of the permitted area and the sign and must be
white, ivory, black, grey, beige or similar neutral colors.
• If the sign has lettering and a logo, the logo may only cover 20 percent of the permitted sign area and may be of any color. The
letters must be white, ivory, black, grey, beige or similar neutral colors.
• If the sign consists of a logo only, the logo may cover 100 percent of the sign and use any color.
2. Each lease or tenant space shall be permitted only one attached building sign per street front with a maximum of two signs per tenant/lease
space.
3. The dimensions of each of the two signs shall be based upon the street typology that the respective building façade fronts on.
4. The distance from the edge of pavement shall be measured from the closest street which has clear visibility of the entire façade/tenant
space in question.
5. Each sign shall be located in the middle 75% of the single plane façade or centered on an artic ulated surface of the building façade.
6. Exposed neon is prohibited.
8. The maximum logo height for an attached sign may be no more than 125% of the maximum permitted letter height.
22
Street Typology
Distance from
Edge of Street
Pavement
Maximum Letter Height
Maximum Area
Other Standards Lease space width Sign Area per
1 linear foot of
lease space
Freeways
(S.H. 114)
≤ 100 feet from
frontage road 24” 20 feet
21 feet – 30 feet
31 feet – 50 feet
50 feet
1.20
1.00
0.80
0.70
Maximum sign area of
400 s.f. >100 feet from
frontage road
For every foot over 100 feet, letter height increases
at a rate of 0.1” until a maximum of 42”
Regional
Boulevards
(F.M. 1709 and F.M.
1938)
≤ 100 feet 18”
20 feet
21 feet – 30 feet
31 feet – 50 feet
50 feet
1.20
1.00
0.80
0.70
Maximum sign area of
300 s.f. >100 feet For every foot over 100 feet, letter height increases
at a rate of 0.1” until a maximum of 36”
Main Streets
(Pedestrian-oriented
streets)
Any distance 14” Any distance 1.0
External lighting is
permitted. Maximum
sign area of 100 s.f.
All other streets
≤ 100 feet
16”
20 feet
21 feet – 30 feet
31 feet – 50 feet
50 feet
1.20
1.00
0.80
0.70
Maximum sign area of
200 s.f. >100 feet For every foot over 100 feet, letter height increases
at a rate of 0.1” until a maximum of 24”
Internal
driveways/parking
aisles
≤ 100 feet 14” 20 feet
21 feet – 30 feet
31 feet – 50 feet
50 feet
1.20
1.00
0.80
0.70
Maximum sign area of
100 s.f. >100 feet For every foot over 100 feet, letter height increases
at a rate of 0.1” until a maximum of 21”
23
Measuring width of a single plane façade and lease space Measuring distance from edge of pavement
Table 5: Special Attached Sign Standards
Sign Type Street Typology
Where Permitted Number of Signs
Maximum
Area (square
feet)
Other Standards
1. Blade Sign
Main Streets,
1 per lease space, permitted in
addition to the 2 attached signs
allowed per lease space 8 s.f (total); 4
s.f. per sign face.
Shall not be higher than the eave line or parapet wall
of the top of the principal building; shall be a minimum
of seven feet above grade when located adjacent to or
projecting over a pedestrian way.
Internal
Streets/Drives, and
Internal Pedestrian
Way
1 per lease space in lieu of 1 attached
sign
Shall not be higher than the eave line or parapet wall
of the top of the principal building; shall be a minimum
of seven feet above grade; and shall be adjacent to or
projecting over a pedestrian way.
2. Menuboard Internal
Streets/Drives 2 per site
24 s.f. Only one
sign face allowed
per sign.
Must be located at the side or rear of the principle
building. If 2 signs are erected, they must be a
minimum of 18 feet apart.
3. Subdivision
Entry All streets
Up to 2 attached wall signs per street
entrance in lieu of a subdivision entry
monument sign.
32 s.f.
4. Drive Through Internal
Streets/Drives 2 per site 4 s.f.
Directional signs, height clearance signs and all
signage that is not visible from all adjoining streets
shall be exempt from this standard as long as the
letter height is less than 6 inches.
5. Barber Pole All Streets
1 per lease space, permitted in
addition to the 1 attached sign per
street front.
Barber pole shall only be permitted for state licensed
designated barber shops.
Size: Height max.: 36 “
Projection from building max.: 12”
6. Exposed
Outdoor
String Lights
All Streets N/A Exposed String Lights shall meet the following criteria:
• Non-flashing
Formatted Table
24
• Attached to an overhead or other structure and
secured in a manner as deemed safe by the City
Building Official or his/her designee.
• Height shall be at least 8 feet or at a height deemed
safe by the City Building Official or his/her designee.
• LED lamps specifically designed for outdoor wet use
– certified CSA-US/C Wet Location
• Not to exceed 120 Volts or 3.5 Watts
• Color – 2700K Warm White or similar type as
approved by the City Building Official or his/her
designee.
• Electrical plans must be submitted and approved by
City.
7. Flat Panel A All Streets 1 per lease space 25 s.f.
• Routed out, sandblasted on stone, or embossed text
• Clearly visible from the right of way AND ≤100 feet
from edge of pavement.
• Permitted only in Industrial areas
8. Flat Panel B All Streets 1 per lease space 25 s.f.
• Digitally printed or cut vinyl on a single metal plate or
pan face. Or individually cut non-illuminated letters
≤2” in depth.
• Not clearly visible from the right of way
• Permitted only in Industrial areas
Table 6: Monument Signs for Businesses
1. The sign base and sign structure shall be brick, stone, or masonry material matching the front façade of the building. The sign face s hall be
framed by a minimum of 6” of brick, stone, or masonry material matching the front façade of the building.
2. Signs with changeable copy may not change more than once per day.
3. Main Streets shall not have monument signs.
4. Maximum total height is measured from the finished grade at the center of the sign. If the finished grade at the center of t he sign is higher
than the finished grade of the closest paved surface, then the height shall be measured from the finished grade of the closest paved surface.
5. The monument base shall be a maximum of 2 feet in height and shall be included in the calculation of total height.
6. A monument sign width cannot exceed 2 times (2x) the allowable sign height
7. Illuminated, internal, backlit or externally lit address numbers are required on business monument signs and shall be located within the top
20% of the sign structure. Address numbers must be a minimum of 8 inches in height along freeways and regional boulevards and a
minimum of 6 inches in height on all other streets. If the area of the address number is 5 square feet or less, the area will not count toward
the maximum sign face area.
8. For multi-tenant developments, the development name, if included as an integral part of the monument structure (i.e., not a separate panel),
will not count toward the maximum sign face area as long as the area of the development name does not exceed 20% of the allowable
maximum sign face area.
Formatted: Left
Formatted: List Paragraph, Indent: Left: -0.01", Hanging:
0.13", Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at: 0.25" + Indent at:
0.5"
Formatted: Font:
Formatted: List Paragraph, Indent: Left: -0.01", Hanging:
0.13", Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at: 0.25" + Indent at:
0.5"
Formatted: Font: (Default) Arial, 9 pt
Formatted: Left
Formatted: List Paragraph, Indent: Left: 0", Hanging:
0.11", Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at: 0.25" + Indent at:
0.5"
Formatted: Font:
Formatted: List Paragraph, Indent: Left: 0", Hanging:
0.11", Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at: 0.25" + Indent at:
0.5"
Formatted: Font: (Default) Arial, 9 pt
25
9. Logos shall not exceed 25% of the area of the sign panel.
10. For signs with multiple sign panels, the background color for all sign panels on the sign shall be consistent.
11. A monument tenant sign panel will be limited to one tenant name on a monument sign panel.
Table 6: Monument Signs for Businesses
Table 7: Special Monument Sign Standards
Sign Type Maximum
Sign
Height
Maximum
Sign Face
Area
Maximum
Sign
Structure
Area
Number
of Signs
Location Illumination Additional regulations
1. Menuboard 8 ft. 50 sf 72 s.f. Two signs
per site.
Must be located at
the side or rear of
the principal
building. If two
signs are erected,
signs must be at
least 18 feet apart.
Internal lighting for
sign panel.
A minimum of 6 inches of masonry sign
structure or material matching the building
must completely surround sign face. All
menuboard signage must be located within
the sign structure and sign face. Additional
sign attachments are not permitted.
Street
Typology Number of Signs
Maximum
Total
Height
(feet)
Maximum
Height of
sign face
Maximum
width
Maximum Sign
Face Area (square
feet)
Maximum
Number of
Sign Panels
Minimum
Required
Setbacks
Freeways
(S.H. 114)
1 per every 500 feet of highway frontage
with a maximum of 2 12 feet 10 feet 24 ft. 160 s.f. (total) and 80
s.f. per sign face 8 15 feet
Regional
Boulevards
(F.M. 1709
and F.M.
1938)
1 per every 500 feet of regional boulevard
frontage with a maximum of 2 8 feet 6 feet 16 ft. 120 s.f. (total) and 60
s.f. per sign face 6 12 feet
All other
streets
1 per street frontage with a maximum of 2
(separated by a minimum 500 feet)
6 feet 6
inches 4 feet 13 feet 100 s.f. (total) and 50
s.f. per sign face 6 10 feet
26
Sign Type Maximum
Sign
Height
Maximum
Sign Face
Area
Maximum
Sign
Structure
Area
Number
of Signs
Location Illumination Additional regulations
2. Drive-
Through, Non-
Food Service
3 feet 4 s.f. 8 s.f. Two signs
per site
Located at the
side or rear or
near a driveway
Internal lighting for
sign panel.
A minimum of 6 inches of masonry sign
structure or material matching the building
must completely surround the sign face.
Directional signs, height clearance signs
and all signage that is not visible from all
adjoining streets shall be exempt from this
standard as long as the letter height is less
than 6 inches.
3. Subdivision
Entry
Total
Height: 6’6”
Base: 18”
Sign Face:
4’
Sign
Structure: 5’
50 s.f. per
sign face;
100 s.f. per
sign
70 s.f.
One per
street
entrance*
Common areas
or as approved
by City Council.
Ground lighting
where the light itself
and supporting
structure are not
visible from public
ROW. Internal
lighting may be
utilized for sculpted
aluminum panels.
Shall meet the standards herein unless
approved by City Council on Concept or
Development Plan, or by a Sign
Variance application.
4. Bulletin
Board 6 feet
18 s.f.; only
one face
allowed per
sign
30 s.f.
One per
subdivision
entrance,
not to
exceed 2
per
subdivision
No closer than
100 feet from an
arterial. Sign
must be located
on designated
common area and
maintained by
HOA.
Bulletin board must have a lockable
covering.
A minimum of 6 inches of sign structure
must completely surround sign face.
Sign may be a ground sign or a monument
sign.
5. Directory
Total Height:
6’6”
Base: 18”
Sign Face:
4’
Sign
Structure: 5’
50 s.f. per
sign face;
100 s.f. per
sign
70 s.f.
One sign
per street
entrance.
Minimum of 75
feet from drive
entrance at ROW.
Ground lighting where
the light itself and
supporting structure
are not visible from
public ROW. Internal
lighting may be utilized
for sculpted aluminum
panels.
A minimum of 6 inches of sign structure
must completely surround sign face.
Sign shall only be located along an internal
drive or street within the development.
6. Gasoline
Pricing
Total Height:
6’6”
Base: 18”
Sign Face:
4’
Sign
Structure: 5’
50 s.f. per
sign face;
100 s.f. per
sign
70 s.f. One per
site.
Minimum of 15
feet from any
property line; 500
feet distance
between any two
business
monument signs
on one site
Ground lighting where
the light itself and
supporting structure
are not visible from
public ROW. Internal
lighting may be utilized
for sculpted aluminum
panels.
Sign must be integral to the permitted sign
for the site. Price per gallon display may
not scroll, flash, or change more frequently
than once a day.
A minimum of 6 inches of masonry sign
structure or material matching the building
must completely surround sign face.
27
Sign Type Maximum
Sign
Height
Maximum
Sign Face
Area
Maximum
Sign
Structure
Area
Number
of Signs
Location Illumination Additional regulations
7. Directional 3 feet
4 s.f. per
sign face; 8
s.f. per sign
10 s.f. Two per
site. NA
A minimum of 6 inches of masonry sign
structure or material matching the building
must completely surround sign face if the
sign is visible from the street right-of-way. If
not visible from the right-of-way, a
minimum of 6 inches of sign structure must
completely surround sign face.
No temporary ground signs shall be
permitted; sign structure must be attached
to the ground.
*Two attached signs per street entrance or one monument sign per street entrance
Elements of a Monument Sign
150
NORTH
28
Sign Panel
29
SECTION 8. MASTER SIGN PLANS
8.1 PURPOSE
The purpose of a Master Sign Plan is to allow an applicant, subject to approval of the City Council,
the option of designating an area that will define unique charact eristics in all sign elements including
type, design, and location based upon specific performance criteria. The goal of a Master Sign Plan
is to:
8.1.1 Promote consistency among signs within a development thus creating visual harmony between
signs, buildings, and other components of the property;
8.1.2 Enhance the compatibility of signs with the architectural and site design features within a
development; and
8.1.3 Encourage signage that is in character with planned and existing uses thus creating a unique
sense of place.
8.1.4 Encourage multi-tenant commercial uses to develop a unique set of sign regulations in
conjunction with development standards.
8.2 APPLICATION PROCESS
8.2.1 The applicant shall develop a master sign plan for all sign elements in the development based
on the sign design guidelines established in Section 8.4.
8.2.2 The Administrative Official shall forward the applicant’s Master Sign Plan to the City Council
for action on the application after evaluating the Master Sign Plan on the established design
guidelines. The City Council shall make the final determination on the Master Sign Plan.
8.2.3 After approval of a Master Sign Plan for a particular development, all signs in that
development shall meet the standards approved in that specific Master Sign Plan.
8.3 APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
A Master Sign Plan Application shall be a written and/or illustrated document to depict the proposed
signs which shall include:
8.3.1 Proposed sign palette which may include:
a. Attached Building Signs
b. Upper Story Signs
c. Monument Signs
d. Window Signs
e. Directional Signs/Wayfinding
f. Directory Signs
g. Pedestrian Oriented Signs
h. Other
8.3.2 Location of all proposed signs included in the sign palette
8.3.3 Size and number of all proposed signs including maximum area, letter height, number,
height, etc.
8.3.4 Materials proposed for all signs and sign structures.
8.3.5 Color and style palette for all signs (letter colors, background colors, text fonts, etc.)
including context of where signs are to be placed on any given façade.
8.3.6 Type of illumination proposed (external, internal, etc.)
8.3.7 Landscaping and/or ornamental structures including fences, fountains, public art, ground
cover, and other landscaping elements that are intended to complement the proposed sign
palette and design.
8.3.8 Any other information as required by the decision making bodies.
30
8.4 DESIGN GUIDELINES- MASTER SIGN PLANS
Commercial signage is an integral part of the urban design fabric of Southlake. It is absolutely
necessary and shall be deemed as a tool that helps promote the health, safet y and welfare of the
general public by providing guidance to both the vehicular driver and pedestrian. Due to its visual
prominence and effect on the overall design character of our city, signage as part of master sign
plans must be considered on the broader scale of community rather than on an individual site basis.
Signage is an integral part of the visual urban streetscape and shall not be designed to visually
compete with its surroundings, but rather serve to build on the quality of the traveler’s and
pedestrian’s experience.
The basis for submitting a master sign plan application should not be to have larger signs or logos
permitted by ordinance but should clearly be related to the sign design goals listed below:
Design Goals
1) To develop organized hierarchies of signage design types that help identify the location and size
standards for individual signs without infringing on the capability of creative design.
2) To establish design criteria that promote the overall visual quality of the streetscape e nvironment
for the general public while providing reasonable and improved standards for identification of
individual properties.
3) To improve the overall visual cohesive appearance of the site through signage guidelines, with
strong consideration that the visual streetscape.
4) To promote a “sense of place” for the City of Southlake while promoting creative design for
individual developments.
5) To promote signage as an architectural complement rather than being visually and thematically
disconnected.
Master Signage Plan Application
The master signage program application shall include, at a minimum, the following to be deemed a
completed application:
1) A master site plan showing a location of each of the proposed signage type(s). Dimension
and label the sign types and include distance measurement of the signs location from the nearest
public right-of way.
2) Provide signage elevations (dimensioned and labeled) indicating proposed text areas, materials,
material finishes, colors, lighting and identifiabl e references as to how the signage design relates to
the proposed architecture. Identify any landscaping elements proposed.
3) For all signage is to be mounted on building façades, provide accurate building elevations that
show signage dimension, signage lo cation, text areas, materials, material finishes, colors and
identifiable references as to how the signage design relates to the proposed architecture.
4) If the applicant is requesting any variances from the current regulations as part of the master sign
plan, please indicate the location of the variance, what the variance request is for and specific
reason/justification for the variance and how the variance promotes are adheres to the design goals
provided.
31
5) A master sign plan application will be considered by the City Council following a recommendation
by the Sign Board. The Sign Board’s recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for
their consideration.
The sign design guidelines are designed to help ensure quality signs that communicate the ir message
in a clear fashion; however, the “guidelines” are not as strict as sign “standards.” The review authority
may interpret the design guidelines with some flexibility in their application to specific signs/projects,
as not all design criteria may b e workable or appropriate for each sign or project. In some
circumstances, one guideline may be relaxed to facilitate compliance with another guideline
determined by the review authority to be more important in the particular case. The overall objective
is to ensure that the intent and spirit of the design guidelines are followed.
8.4.1. Compatibility with surroundings.
a. Proportional size and scale. The scale of signs should be based on the building façade
on which they are placed and the area in whic h they are located. The size and shape
of a sign should be proportional with the scale of the structure. Large storefronts such
as big boxes will be allowed to have proportionally larger signs than smaller storefronts.
Signs should not overwhelm the section of the building façade on which it is placed
upon.
Encouraged
Encouraged
Prohibited
Prohibited
b. Integrate signs with the building. Signs should be designed so that they are integrated
with the design of the building. A well designed building facade or storefront is created
by the careful coordination of sign and architectural design, and a coordinated color
scheme. Signs in multiple tenant buildings should be designed to complement or
enhance the other signs in the building. Sign p lacement and design should be
reviewed within the context of building design.
32
Encouraged Prohibited
c. Corporate Franchise Signage. Corporate franchise signage should conform to the
community’s visual desires while maintaining some elements of co rporate identity.
Corporate logos should fit the context, color, scale and building elements.
8.4.2 Location and mounting.
a. Signs should be mounted in locations that respect the design of a building and site,
including the arrangement of bays and openings. Signs should not obscure windows,
(including second story windows), window trim/molding, grillwork, piers, pilasters, and
other ornamental features.
b. Attached signs on a fascia above storefront windows should be sized to fit within
existing friezes, lintels, spandrels, and other such features and not extend above,
below, or beyond them. Typically, attached signs should be centered on horizontal
surfaces (e.g., over a storefront opening).
c. When a large building contains several storefronts, si gns for the individual businesses
should relate well to each other in terms of locations, height, proportion, color, and
illumination. Maintaining continuity will reinforce the building’s facade composition
while still retaining each business’s identity.
Encouraged Prohibited
8.4.3 Color
a. Avoid using too many colors. Colors or color combinations that interfere with legibility
of the sign copy or that interfere with viewer identification of other signs should be
avoided.
b. Use contrasting colors. Contrast is an important influence on the legibility of signs. A
substantial contrast should be provided between the color and material of the
background and the letters or symbols to make the sign easier to read in both day and
night. Light letters on a dark background or dark letters on a light background are most
legible. Light letters on a dark background work best for both day and night time use.
33
Encouraged
Prohibited
8.4.4 Materials.
a. Compatibility of materials. Sign materials should be compatible with the design of the
facade on which they are placed. Consider the architectural design of the building’s
facade and select materials that complement the design. The selected materials
should also contribute to the legibility of the sign. For example, glossy finishes are often
difficult to read because of glare and reflections.
b. Appropriate materials. Sign materials should be extremely durable. Paper and cloth
signs are not suitable for exterior use (except on awnings) because they deteriorate
quickly. If wood is used, it should be properly sealed to keep moisture from soaking
into the wood and causing the sign’s lettering to deteriorate.
8.4.5 Sign legibility.
a. Concise Name Identification. A concise name or limited lines of copy should be used
whenever possible given the limited amount of time the vehicle traveling public has to
identify and read the sign. The fewer number of words, the more effective the sign. A
simple and succinct sign is easier to read and looks more attractive because it is less
cluttered.
b. Use symbols and logos. Symbols and logos can be used in place of words whenever
appropriate. Pictographic images will usually register more quickly in the viewer’s mind
than a written message. And, they can be an expression of the owner’s creativity.
c. Limit the number of letter styles. The number of lettering styles that are used on a sign
should be limited in order to increase legibility. As a general rule, limit the number of
different letter types to no more than two for small signs and three for larger signs.
Intricate typefaces and symbols that are difficult to read reduce the sign’s ability to
communicate.
Encouraged Prohibited
34
Encouraged Prohibited
8.4.6 Sign illumination.
a. Backlit Signs. Backlit solid letters (reverse channel/halo lit) are a preferred alternative
to internally illuminated signs. Signs comprised of individual letters mounted directly
on a structure can often use a distinctive element of the structure’s facade as a
backdrop, thereby providing a better integration of the sign with the structure.
b. Use a projected light source. Signs along roadways with slower moving traffic or in
pedestrian oriented environment should consider illumination by a projected light
source (e.g., spotlight). Projection lighting is usually a better alternative because the
sign will appear to be integrated with the building’s architecture. Light fixtures
supported in front of the sign cast light on the sign and generally a portion of the
building’s face as well. Projected lighting emphasizes the continuity of the structure’s
surface and signs become an integral part of the facade. The use of small, unobtrusive
fixtures for external (projection) lighting is encouraged. Avoid the use of oversized
fixtures that are out of scale with the sign and structure. Whenever projection lighting
is used (fluorescent or incandescent), care should be taken to properly shield the light
source to prevent glare from spilling over into residential areas and any public right -of-
way. Signs should be lighted only to the minimum level required for nighttime
readability.
c. Cabinet signs. The use of internally illuminated cabinet signs is not permitted by
ordinance.
Prohibited
d. Electrical raceways and conduits. Electrical transformer boxes and raceways are
required to be concealed from public view. If a raceway cannot be mounted internally
behind the finished exterior wall, the exposed metal surfaces of the raceway should be
finished to match the background wall, or integrated into the overall design of the sign.
If raceways are necessary, they should be as thin and narrow as possible and should
never extend in width or height beyond the area of the sign’s lettering or graphics. All
exposed conduit and junction boxes should also be concealed from public view.
35
Prohibited
e. Neon Signs. Exposed Neon/L.E.D. or similar types of lighting are not permitted. Only
exposed, non-flashing “OPEN” exposed non-flashing neon signs are permitted under
Section 5.4 Limited Exemptions.
Prohibited
Prohibited
f. Flat Panel Signs. Flat Panel signs of any kind are not permitted in non-industrial
areas as defined by this ordinance.
Prohibited Prohibited
8.4.7 Shopping Center Monument Signs
a. Freestanding signs are allowed to display a limited number of individual tenant signs
and the name of the center. Multiple message panels make the sig n ineffective in
conveying a message and could potentially be a safety hazard.
b. Individual tenant sign panels should be uniform in size. The address, the name of the
center or the major tenant may have a larger sign panel.
c. The sign structure should be architecturally designed and incorporate design details,
materials, and colors of the associated buildings.
d. Sign panels should be limited in size to the width of the architectural support elements
of the sign.
e. Signs should be externally illuminated.
f. The size of the sign should be primarily dependent on the speed of the traffic viewing
the sign and the distance from the roadway.
g. Monument signs should include a landscaping element.
36
Encouraged
Discouraged
8.4.8 Shopping Center Store Signage.
a. Require consistency (color, size, etc.) of tenant signage in shopping centers.
b. Signs should be designed to complement or enhance the other signs in the center.
c. A coordinated sign program should be encouraged for multi -tenant development.
Encouraged Discouraged
8.4.9 Multistory Buildings
a. For multistory corporate offices and hotels, s igns should be limited to monument signs
and possibly a single façade sign of appropriate scale and size that identifies the name
of the major tenant or building.
b. For multistory commercial buildings, upper story signs should be limited to tenants that
have a minimum of 25 feet of horizontal building frontage.
Encouraged Encouraged
37
SECTION 9. ADMINISTRATION
9.1 ROLE OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICIAL
The City Manager shall appoint the Administrative Official who shall administer and enforce the terms
and conditions of this ordinance.
9.2 SIGN PERMIT REQUIRED
No signs, unless exempted under Section 5.3 and Section 5.4, shall be erected, displayed, or alter ed
within the City of Southlake without a duly approved sign permit from the City. The Administrative
Official or designee shall ensure that all sign permits are granted only in compliance with the
provisions of this ordinance. Further, no sign permit sh all be issued unless a Certificate of Occupancy
(for existing development) or building permit (for new development) has been issued.
9.3 APPLICATION
Application for a permit shall be made as required by this ordinance and the following information
shall be submitted as separate documents:
9.3.1 Application form shall be completed.
9.3.2 General plan that illustrates:
a. Location of the building, structure, or tract to which or upon which the sign is to be
attached or erected.
b. 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.
9.3.3 Signature of the owner of the property or the owner’s representative stating that the applicant
has permission to erect such signs.
9.3.4 The Administrative Official shall review a permit application and make a decision on whether
to grant or deny the permit within fourteen (14) days of submittal of a fully completed
application. If additional information is required of an applicant in order to complete an
application, the applicant shall be notified of that fact within fourteen (14) days. Thereafter, the
Administrative Official shall make a decision on whether to grant o r deny the permit within
fourteen (14) days of receiving the additional information or a written certification from the
applicant that the application is complete. Any application for which the Administrative Official
fails to grant a decision within the first fourteen (14) day period shall be deemed denied.
9.4 FEES
All fees for sign permits shall be in accordance with the current fee schedule adopted by the City
Council.
9.5 PERMIT EXPIRATION
If the work authorized by a permit issued under this ordinan ce has not been commenced within one
hundred eighty (180) days after the date of issuance, the permit shall become null and void.
9.6 APPEALS AND VARIANCES
9.6.1 APPEALS
38
Any decision rendered by the Administrative 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
Administrative Official. Such appeal shall be filed in writing with the Administrative Official
specifying the grounds on which the appeal is based . The Administrative Official shall forthwith
transmit to the City 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 Administrative Official was in accordance with all ordinances and
regulations. The decision of the City Council shall be final.
9.6.2 VARIANCES
a. Variance Authorized. 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.
b. Approval Standards. In granting any variance, City Council shall consider the following
criteria:
(i) Special conditions exist which are peculiar to the land, structure or building
involved and are not applicable to other lands, buildings or structures in the same
zone. The City may attach such conditions to granting all or a portion of any
variance necessary to achieve the purpose of this ordinance, and;
(ii) The strict interpretation of the provisions of the ordinance would deprive the
applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same zone under
the terms of the ordinance, and;
(iii) The special conditions and circumstances do not result from the actions of the
applicant and such conditions and circumstances do not merely constitute
pecuniary hardship or inconveniences, and;
(iv) Granting the variance will meet the objectives of the ordinance and not be injurious
to the adjoining property owners or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare,
and;
(v) The request will be the minimum variance necessary to alleviate the special
hardship or practical difficulties faced by the applicant in meeting the requirements
of this ordinance; and;
(vi) Granting of the variance will be in harmony with the spirit and purpose of this sign
ordinance.
(vii) Granting of a variance shall be specific to the subject sign(s). Any modification of
the signage approved by the variance or the installation of new or replacement
signage that does not meet the specific requirements of the City Council variance
approval is prohibited and will be deemed non-compliant.
c. Application Process. Any request for a varian ce shall be made to the Administrative
Official and be accompanied by a completed application and a non -refundable filing fee
in the amount specified in the current fee schedule adopted by City Council. The sign
variance will be considered by the City Coun cil following a recommendation by the Sign
Board. The Sign Board’s recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for their
consideration.
9.7 RESPONSIBILITY FOR ENFORCEMENT
It is the responsibility of the Administrative Official to interpret and administer the requirements of this
ordinance.
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9.7.1 The Administrative 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 City or laws of this state or the
federal government. Such suspension or revocation shall be effective whe n communicated in
writing to the person to whom the permit is issued, the owner of the sign, or the owner of 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 City Council shall affirm, reverse, or modify the
suspension or revocation and such decision shall be final.
Upon final determination that the permit is 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 o f
this ordinance.
9.7.2 The Administrative 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.
9.7.3 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. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, may 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.
9.7.4 The following signs shall be removed based on the determination of the Administrative Of ficial:
a. OBSOLETE SIGNS. Any sign, which the Administrative 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 written notification
to do so from the Administrative 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 time period as determined by the Administrative Official. Upon failure
to comply with such notice or to file an appeal of the decision in accordance with this
ordinance, the Administrative 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.
b. UNSAFE DILAPIDATED OR DETERIORATED SIGNS. If the Administrative 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, own er 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 Administrative Official is hereby authori zed 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 Administrative 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 permit 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 necessary to eliminate the threat
to the public health, safety, and welfare.
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c. 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 the City unless otherwise permitted by this ordinance. The installer, 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 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 b y 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.
d. SIGNS IN RIGHT-OF-WAY AND/OR ON PUBLIC PROPERTY: Any sign that is erected,
constructed, or otherwise located within or upon public right -of-way or on public property
unless otherwise permitted by this ordinance may be removed by the City. The ow ner
or installer 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 pl aced 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 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.
e. ILLEGALLY ERECTED SIGNS. Any sign that is erected, constructed or otherwise
displayed, which the Administrative Official determines to be in direct violation of this
ordinance, may be removed by 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 from 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 p ermit
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 reason able time
period as determined by the Administrative Official. Upon failure to comply with such
notice or to file an appeal of the decision in accordance with this ordinance, the
Administrative 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.
f. EXTENT OF SIGN REMOVAL. The Administrative Official shall determine to what extent
the elements of the sign must be r emoved to comply with this section. This may include,
but is not limited to, any of the following:
(i) Removal of the text or copy portion of the sign.
(ii) Removal of the portion of the sign excluding the structural support of the sign.
(iii) Removal of all structural elements of the sign.
9.8 PENALTY FOR VIOLATION
9.8.1 Any person who erects a sign that is in not in compliance with of any provision in this Ordinance,
shall be assessed a penalty by the Administrator equal to Five Hundred ($500.00) per
incidence. Each day the violation exists shall be considered a separate incident. A violation,
penalty, or requirement of this ordinance that is not rectified within 90 days or a time period
determined as reasonable by the Administrator shall become subje ct to Section 9.7.4.
SECTION 10. SEVERABILITY
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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 t his 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 11. CONFLICTING ORDINANCES
This ordinance shall be and is hereby declared to be cumulative of all other ordinances of the City; and this
ordinance shall not operate to repeal or affect any of such other ordinances except insofar as the provisions
thereof might be inconsistent or in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance, in which event such
conflicting provisions, if any, in such other ordinance or ordinances are hereby repealed.
SECTION 12. SAVINGS CLAUSE
All rights and remedies of the City of Southlake are expressly saved as to any and all vio lations of the
provisions of any ordinances affecting the regulations for signs that 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 13. PUBLICATION CLAUSE
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 in the official City newspaper one time within ten (10) days after
passage of this ordinance, as required by Section 3 .13 of the Charter of the City of Southlake.
SECTION 14. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and its publication as required by
law, and it is so ordained.
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Appendix A
Design Guidelines for “Existing Building for Sale/Leasing Ground Signs”
“Existing Building for Sale/Leasing Ground Signs” shall be designed in accordance with the
following guidelines (see attached Figure 1 for illustration):
1. Sign Post:
a. Material: Shall be of 3 – 4 inch extruded metal with decorative finials.
b. Height: Shall not exceed 5 feet in height, excluding finials. Finials shall not exceed
9 inches in height.
c. Color: shall be black
d. Metal sign post required.
2. Sign Frame:
a. Same material as the sign post
b. Same color as the sign post
c. Height – Any decorative element over the sign frame shall be limited to a maximum
of 9”
3. Sign Face:
a. Material: Shall be made up of ¼” to ½” plastic or aluminum coated MDO or plastic
cored aluminum
b. Area - Each sign face shall not exceed 12 square feet. Sign may be two-sided.
c. Color – Background color shall be one of the following: white, gray, or beige/cream.
Foreground color (font and logo) shall be black.
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