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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 ii 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, iii 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 iv 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 v 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 1 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. 2 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 3 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. 4 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. 5 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. 6 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 7 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 8 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 11 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. 13 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. 14 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. 16 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. 17 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 18 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. 21 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. 39 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. 40 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 41 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. 42 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. 43 Fi g u r e 1 R e c o m m e n d e d D e s i g n P a l e t t e f o r E x i s t i n g B u i l d i n g f o r Sa l e / L e a s i n g S i g n s Me t a l P o s t s a n d F r a m e M et a l F r a m e