SB Item 6 - SLTS MSP draft
Proposed Master Sign Plan
Exclusively for
Southlake Town Square
Amended by City of Southlake Staff: March 12, 2020
CRTKL Updates: April 29, 2020
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RPAI Inspiration
• Aging shopping centers face increasing competition and challenges.
• Shopping precincts and district areas play an important role in communities as a means creating a
sense of place and gathering.
• Amendment recommendations, as warranted, are to allow for creativity and flexibility in order to
facilitate an opportunity to reposition and continue the development of Southlake Town Square.
The proposed amendments herein are intended to perform as a stand-alone, comprehensive sign
ordinance tailored specifically for Southlake Town Square Non-residential (refer to Exhibit A shown on
page 8).
Where no ordinance is given, the City of Southlake Sign Ordinance No 704-J shall govern.
SECTION 1. TITLE
This ordinance shall be known as the Southlake Town Square Master Sign Plan.
SECTION 2. PURPOSE & INTENT
The purpose of the Master Sign Plan is to modernize regulations to create flexibility in the
provision of signage, storefront appearance and lighting to address the rapidly evolving unique
retail demands associated with a pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use urban environment while
protecting the distinctive architectural character of Southlake Town Square through the
encouragement of excellent architectural design that is responsible and responsive to the
individual context of the development and to ensure that future development will promote
flexibility and creativity in conformity with respect to type, intensity, design and appearance.
SECTION 3. DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply to signage unique to Southlake Town Square. For terms not
defined under this section, Section 4, Definitions of the City of Southlake Sign Ordinance No. 704-
J shall apply. Images shown are for reference only and are not meant to imply an acceptable
design vocabulary.
Arcade Sign
Sign supported or suspended within a colonnade or underneath an awning,
canopy, breezeway, marquee, overhang or other structural element of a
building that forms a covered passageway for pedestrians.
Awning
An awning shall include any structure, typically made from a canvas or metal
material, attached to a building and intended to provide shelter over a
walkway, building entrance or window, and usually supported by gravity and
a metal frame. Illuminated awnings, whether located at the first floor or
upper story or a building are prohibited. Awnings illuminated from
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remote location(s) are permitted; back-illuminated awnings are
prohibited.
Business Monument
A permanent on-site sign that is used to identify a business, profession,
organization, institution, service, activity or other non-residential use
conducted, sold or offered on the site where such sign is located.
Freestanding sign includes, but is not limited to, ground-based signs
affixed to monument style foundations or other necessary structures
such as screens or walls.
Canopy
A roof structure constructed of rigid materials, including but not limited to,
metal, wood concrete, plastic or glass, which is attached to building, or which
is freestanding and supported by columns, poles or braces extended to the
ground. Vertical surface area is limited.
Changing Imagery
The process to electronically project two or three-dimensional objects,
graphics or video onto spatially mapped surfaces of landscape settings
and structures such as buildings or other built environments. Visually
dynamic, the display, whether static or animated, is presented with audio
to create an audio-visual narrative. Applies to tenants leasing 10,000 s.f.
or more.
Colonnade Building
A building with an attached colonnade structure projecting from the
storefront and covering the sidewalk.
Holiday Decoration
Displays erected on a seasonal basis in observance of religious, national or
state holidays, which are not intended to be permanent and contain no
advertising material.
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Large Media Display
Large scale digital screens such as LED, LCD and project screens where
video or multimedia content is displayed in indoor or outdoor public
spaces for informational, entertainment, artistic or advertising
purposes.
Legal Non-Conforming Signs
Any sign that does not meet the requirements of this chapter but, was approved as part of a
previously approved version of the Ordinance.
Non-Residential Building or Structure
A non-residential building or structure is one in which all the floors are designated for office, retail,
institutional, or any other commercial use that is not a residential use.
Projection
The distance by which a sign extends over public property or beyond the building line.
Sign, Awning
A sign consisting of one line of letters painted, placed or installed upon
the valence of any awning and an identification emblem, insignia, initial
or other similar feature painted, embordered, place or installed
elsewhere on an awning; provided, that any sign emblem, insignia, initial
or other similar feature shall comply with all other appropriate
provisions of this title.
Sign, Advertising Column
A freestanding, often cylindrical pedestrian scaled structure in the public area
streetscape used for providing information or displaying advertisements, often
incorporating static or an interactive display screen or screens.
Sign, Blade (Pedestrian)
An attached sign oriented perpendicular to the face of the building which
projects no more than forty-eight (48”) beyond the surface of the building to
which it is affixed or supported.
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Sign, Building Identification
Any sign stating the use and name given to the use of a building, structure of
area, when such use is permitted in the zone in which the sign is located.
Sign, Canopy
Where metal (i.e. steel, aluminum, etc.) canopies are used, the canopy
sign may consist of individually mounted metal letters placed on the top
or bottom of the canopy’s outside edge, parallel to the face of the building.
Sign, Construction
Any sign bearing the name(s) of contractors, architects, engineers, etc. or
advertising, promotions, price ranges and similar information placed at a
construction site which has received development plan approval of for
which and active building permit exists.
Sign, Directional (Pedestrian)
Freestanding sign occurring at major decision points to assist and direct
visitors to key destinations.
Sign, Directional (Wall)
Building or structure mounted sign occurring at key decision points to
assist and direct visitors to principal destinations.
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Sign, Directory
A sign within the project freestanding or on a wall of a building adjacent to its
public entrance that identifies uses, tenants and/or activities conducted on
site or within the building. Static directory signs shall change only through
manipulation by the user; electronic directory signs shall change with a
frequency of once per every eight (8) hours.
Sign, Entertainment Anchor
Any sign stating the use and name given to the use of a building,
structure of area, when such use is permitted with a square footage of
sixty thousand square foot (60,000 SF) or greater.
Sign, Fascia
A sign affixed directly to the exterior wall or screening surface,
confined within the limits thereof, and which projects from the
surface less than eighteen inches (18”) at all points, and located
either: (a) above the first floor storefront, and below the second
level windows for multi-story buildings; (b) where permitted,
above the upper story windows and below the next level windows
of building parapet, as applicable; (c) Side or rear façade of an
articulated surface of a building in the event space at the
immediate rear of the premises is not available. Attached building
signs are displayed parallel to the face of the building and identify
the name of the business.
Sign, Feature
An attached sign oriented perpendicular to the face of the building directly
above or above and adjacent to its principal entrance.
Sign, Food and Beverage Anchor
Any sign stating the use and name given to the use of a building,
structure of area, when such use is permitted with a square footage of
five thousand square foot (5,000 SF) or greater.
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Sign, Gobo (Image Projection)
Projection of patterns, colors and/or imagery via light and shadow on
vertical or horizontal surfaces.
Sign, Hospitality Anchor
Any sign stating the use and name given to the use of a building, structure of
area, when such use is permitted with a square footage of two-hundred
thousand square foot (200,000 SF) or greater and five (5) or more stories in
height.
Sign, Incidental
Sign with a purpose secondary to the use of the site on which it located, such
as “no parking”, “entrance”, “loading only” and other similar information and
directive per sign. Incidental signs contain no commercial message or
commercial logo other than the name of the business establishment or
development.
Sign, Inlaid Entry Vestibule Floor
Sign or graphic constructed of durable natural materials (i.e. stone, metal,
glass, etc.) and fully integrated into paving at the established, finished level
within paving outside of the lease space and forward of the lease line.
Sign, Marquee
A permanent, cantilevered projection over a sidewalk, terrace or outdoor
entrance of a theater, hotel or other building with decorative lighting and
signage stating the name of the establishment or featured entertainment to
be found within.
Sign, Menu Vitrine
An accessory to display menus encased in a wall display adjacent to the entry
to a restaurant establishment.
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Sign, Pole
A sign that may provide identification, directional or information, which is
supported by and placed upon one or more existing or freestanding poles. See
pedestrian directional sign.
Sign, Retail Anchor
Any sign stating the use and name given to the use of a building, structure of
area, when such use is permitted with a square footage of twenty-five
thousand square foot (10,000 SF) or greater.
Sign, Roof
An attached sign that is located on the roof, generally less than six feet from
the established eave line.
Skeleton Tubing (Exposed Neon)
Neon tubing that is itself or outlines lighting that may be supported by a panel
but, is not attached to an enclosure or sign body.
Tenant Banner
A sign or graphic applied to a fabric or other flexible, durable material
displaying the name, motto, greeting or slogan of an establishment.
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Unified District Monument
A permanent on-site sign that is used to identify the name of the site or
development or may identify the businesses, professions, organizations,
institutions, services, activities or other non-residential uses conducted,
sold or offered on the site or development. Freestanding sign may
include, but is not limited to, ground-based signs affixed to monument
style foundations or other necessary structures such as screens or
walls.
Vehicular Sign
Any sign or graphic on a vehicle that is not used in the normal course of
operation of an establishment but, as an extension of its brand (i.e.
classic truck, etc.), may be temporarily used for marketing and
promotion. Vehicle must bear current license plates, registration and be
operational and when possible, may be parked overnight along the
street, internal drive or parking areas.
Wall Mural (Visual Art)
Any graphic or artwork painted or applied on a wall, ceiling or other
architectural surface where its background differentiates it from the general
color or material of the wall or other surface.
Wall Plaque
A flat plate, slab or disk sign affixed directly to a wall with the exposed sign
face in a plane approximately parallel to and projecting no more than 4”
from the face of the wall.
SECTION 4. REGULATIONS FOR NON-RESIDENTIAL AND MIXED-USE BUILDINGS
4.1 Signage and Wayfinding - Signs in conformance with the standards, procedures and
other requirements identified herein may be erected, placed, established, painted,
created or maintained within the overall non-residential boundary of Southlake Town
Square.
Ordinance noted herein for Signage and Wayfinding is prepared specifically for the non-
residential districts within Southlake Town Square. Where no ordinance is given, the City
of Southlake Sign Ordinance No 704-J shall govern.
1. Purpose and Intent - In addition to the goals identified under Section 2 herein and
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City of Southlake Sign Ordinance No. 704-J, these standards are adopted in order
to:
i. Gain support in preparing for current and future design trends that develop
within the non-residential districts of Southlake Town Square;
ii. Reflect the unique character of the Southlake Town Square area as a mixed-
use shopping precinct with regards to the built form and concentration of
retail, entertainment, hospitality and restaurant uses;
iii. Increase variety and diversity in signage types, illumination, color, materiality
and texture that’s complimentary to the unique building designs, urban
pedestrian-oriented nature of the Southlake Town Square and its dense,
compact development that is absent in other areas of the City;
iv. Maintain predictable, clear and cohesive regulations while providing
flexibility and facilitating creativity so Southlake Town Square may continue
to evolve over time;
v. To minimize the potential adverse effects of signs on nearby public and
private property;
vi. Permit flexibility for City Administrators and Enforcement Officers in their
assessments of sign submissions and to streamline the review and approval
process, reducing the need for so many or most City Council meetings,
hearings, etc., allowing merchants to open sooner without delay.
SECTION 5. APPLICABILITY –
Administrative Approved Signs – In recognition of the uniqueness of the Southlake Town
Square environment, individuality of signage is encouraged. Certain signs, while not
technically meeting the literal regulations set forth herein, will nonetheless be
considered for approval on a case-by-case basis by the City Administrator if it:
i. Is constructed of durable, rust inhibiting materials;
ii. Fabricated in manner that conceals power supply, mounting, etc. Exposed
conduits, raceways, wires, etc. are prohibited;
iii. Does not exceed maximum square footages allowed;
iv. Materiality, colors and finishes are respectful of and aligns with those of the
base building structure;
v. Illuminated in a manner that is not excessively bright and harmonizes with
the structure or structures on the parcel on which it is to be applied;
vi. Engineered by a Structural Engineered licensed in the State of Texas with
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appropriate stamp and/or seals;
vii. Does not constitute a traffic and safety hazard because it is distracting, or is
not considered obscene, lewd, indecent or otherwise offensive to public
morals.
Approval of any such signage shall be subject to any conditions which in its judgement
are necessary to carry out the purposes and intent of the review standards.
Prohibited Signs – In addition to any signage not addressed and/or defined by this
ordinance or deemed prohibited in Sign Ordinance No. 704-J, the following signs shall be
prohibited within the non-residential boundary of Southlake Town Square:
i. Sub-division Marketing Sign/Open House sign;
ii. Garage/Yard/Estate Sale sign.
SECTION 6. MATERIALS – Materials and finishes shall be a of a high-quality, unique and achieve
harmony with others within the Downtown District. Acceptable materials for signing,
wayfinding and related structures include:
a. Metals: Stainless steel, brass or copper (including terne coated) in a polished,
brushed or textured finish. Natural aluminum finishes are not permitted. All
exposed aluminum will be of a quality applied electrostatic, colored, finish
complementary to the storefront design. Use of cast iron shall be limited and is
subject to review by the Landlord on a case-by-case basis.
b. Composites. Glass fiber reinforced gypsum (GFRG), glass reinforced plastic (GRP)
or glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC).
c. Hardwoods. Hardwoods must have a natural or clear, quality painted or lacquered
finish.
d. Stone: Granite, marble limestone and slate.
e. Tile: Ceramic and porcelain.
f. Terrazzo, mosaics and colored stained concrete.
g. Glass: Textured, art, colored, frosted and patterned.
h. Acrylic: translucent, clear, colored and opaque.
i. High Performance Adhesive Film.
j. Gold Leaf or Professionally Painted Graphics.
SECTION 7. ILLUMINATION BY LETTER TYPE –
a. Reverse Channel Sign – individually mounted letters or
characters with metal faces and returns (front and sides) with a
natural or painted finish and backed with clear acrylic at its
rear. They are generally pinned off a solid surface and have
‘halo’ illumination.
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b. Channel Sign – individually mounted letters or characters
generally with translucent, colored acrylic faces and metal
returns (front and sides) with a natural or painted finish. They
are generally internally illuminated with a concealed light
source within.
c. Channel/Reverse Channel Sign – fabricated as a
combination of the two types noted above, individually
mounted letters or characters with translucent, colored
acrylic faces and metal returns (front and sides) with a
natural or painted finish and backed with clear acrylic at
its rear. They are generally pinned off a solid surface and
have both internal and ‘halo’ illumination.
d. Solid Channel/Plate Sign – individually mounted letters or
characters generally fabricated as a fully enclosed channel
letter with metal faces and returns (front and sides) or, from
a solid metal plate. Finishes may be a natural material or
painted. They are generally internally illuminated with a
remote light source.
e. Solid Panel and Push Thru Acrylic Sign – a sign panel of
material machined to receive individual letters or
characters fabricated from transparent or translucent
acrylic and installed to extend beyond the face of the sign
panel. They are generally internally illuminated with a
concealed light source within.
f. Open Channel Sign – individually mounted letters or
characters generally with an exposed light source metal
returns (front and sides) with a natural or painted finish.
Neon or incandescent bulbs are common forms of
illumination.
g. Reverse Channel/Edge Lit Sign – individually mounted letters
or characters with metal faces (front) with a natural or painted
finish and perforated metal or translucent acry7lic returns
(side). They are generally internally illuminated with a
concealed light source within.
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SECTION 8. SIGNAGE CRITERIA BY BUILDING TYPE
First Floor Building:
A First Floor Building includes all single-story commercial buildings (that are not colonnade structures) as
well as any first floor tenant spaces in multi-story commercial buildings. These building types are
primarily located along Main Street, Civic Place, State Street, Prospect Street and the southern portions
of Grand Avenue, Central Avenue and Summit Avenue.
Fascia Sign: shall be permitted up to two (2) of the following sign types on each building wall that faces
a street, drive or parking area:
1) Fascia -Dimensions: Letter 24” – Up to 36” stacked double; Logo at 30”
a. Illumination – any illumination by letter type as defined in Section 7 shall be considered.
External illumination sources, such as goose-neck lighting, shall also be considered.
Neon signs will be reviewed on an individual basis and considered if the neon
contributes decoratively to the environment and does not create a presence which
diminishes attention to its neighbors. For “OPEN” signs: only exposed, non-flashing or
skeleton neon illumination shall be allowed.
2) Feature sign
3) Roof sign
4) Marquee
5) Pedestrian blade
6) Tenant banner
7) Canopy – 24” Letter – 30” logo (may be illuminated)
Colonnade:
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A Colonnade Building has an attached colonnade structure projecting from the storefront and covering
the sidewalk. This building type is primarily located along the northern portion of Grand Avenue.
Fascia Sign: shall be permitted up to three of the following sign types on each building wall that faces a
street, drive or parking area; in addition to one attached fascia sign on the colonnade face:
1) Fascia - Dimensions : Letter 24” – Up to 36” stacked double; Logo at 30”
a. Illumination – any illumination by letter type as defined in Section 7 shall be considered.
External illumination sources, such as goose-neck lighting, shall also be considered.
Neon signs will be reviewed on an individual basis and considered if the neon
contributes decoratively to the environment and does not create a presence which
diminishes attention to its neighbors. For “OPEN” signs: only exposed, non-flashing or
skeleton neon illumination shall be allowed.
2) Arcade sign
2) Feature sign
4) Marquee
5) Pedestrian blade
6) Tenant banner
*Faux windows and/or blank wall embellishments that act as signs shall be considered on a case by case
basis.
Upper story:
An Upper Story building type includes all multi-story commercial buildings with upper story tenants.
These building types are primarily located along Main Street, Civic Place, State Street and the
southern portions of Grand Avenue.
• In addition to a Wall Sign that identifies the entrance to lease space on the first floor that exceed
10,000 s.f., one (1) fascia sign shall be permitted above the first floor on each building façade that
faces a street, drive or parking area, subject to all area requirements. Limited to two (2) total, each
upper story building sign must be positioned within the boundaries of its street level storefront and
spaced equally to prevent clutter in accordance with the following:
o Maximum Letter Height – maximum 16 inches
o Illumination – any illumination by letter type as defined in Section 7 shall be considered.
External illumination sources, such as goose-neck lighting, shall also be considered.
o Maximum Area – 20 f.t.
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• For multi-story buildings, the maximum area shall be permitted only for signs displayed between the
sidewalk and a height of twenty feet (20’) on any building wall. The total of all signs displayed above
the twenty foot (20’) height limit shall be: (a) for permitted Fascia Signs, one-half square foot (0.5
SF) for every one-foot (1’) of width of building or lease space; and (b) for Window Signs, Awning
Signs and Canopy Signs, limited to signage which does not obscure more the twenty-five percent
(25%) of the total window area.
Various Anchors:
1) Hospitality (200,000 s.f. or greater and 5 or more stories in height) – There shall be permitted up
to a combination of three (3) of the following four (4) types of signs on each building wall which
faces a street, drive or parking area:
a. Fascia sign – top floor letter height maximum 84 inches; first floor letter height
maximum 24 inches. Area shall be 0.5 square feet for every one foot of building width or
lease space: Maximum area allowable by Code is 400 square feet.
i. Illumination – any illumination by letter type as defined in Section 7 shall be
considered. External illumination sources, such as goose-neck lighting, shall also
be considered. Neon signs will be reviewed on an individual basis and
considered if the neon contributes decoratively to the environment and does
not create a presence which diminishes attention to its neighbors. For “OPEN”
signs: only exposed, non-flashing or skeleton neon illumination shall be allowed.
b. Feature sign
c. Roof sign
d. Pedestrian blade sign; and,
e. Up to two (2) monument identification signs may be places on the premises property
provided such sign(s) do not exceed six-feet, six-inches (6’6”) in height; and exceed one-
hundred s.f. in total area – 50 s.f. per sign face
2) Entertainment (60,000 s.f. or greater) – There shall be permitted up to a combination of three
(3) of the following five (5) types of signs. On each building wall which faces a street, drive or
parking area:
a. Fascia sign – maximum letter height 61 inches. Area shall be 0.5 square feet for every
one foot of building width or lease space: Maximum area allowable by Code is 400
square feet.
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i. Illumination – any illumination by letter type as defined in Section 7 shall be
considered. External illumination sources, such as goose-neck lighting, shall also
be considered. Neon shall be permitted to be incorporated into the theater
anchor building and signage consistent with theatre use.
b. Feature sign
c. Roof sign
d. Marquee
e. Pedestrian blade sign
3) Food and Beverage (5,000 s.f. or greater) – There shall be permitted up to a combination of
three (3) of the following five (5) types of signs. On each building wall which faces a street, drive
or parking area:
a. Fascia sign – maximum letter height 48 inches. Area shall be 0.5 square feet for every
one foot of building width or lease space: Maximum area allowable by Code is 400
square feet.
i. Illumination – any illumination by letter type as defined in Section 7 shall be
considered. External illumination sources, such as goose-neck lighting, shall also
be considered. Neon signs will be reviewed on an individual basis and
considered if the neon contributes decoratively to the environment and does
not create a presence which diminishes attention to its neighbors. For “OPEN”
signs: only exposed, non-flashing or skeleton neon illumination shall be allowed.
b. Feature sign
c. Roof sign
d. Marquee
e. Pedestrian blade sign
4) Retail (25,000 s.f. or greater) – There shall be permitted up to a combination of three (3) of the
following five (5) types of signs. On each building wall which faces a street, drive or parking area:
a. Fascia sign – top floor letter height maximum 48 inches; first floor letter height
maximum 24 inches. Area shall be 0.5 square feet for every one foot of building width or
lease space: Maximum area allowable by Code is 400 square feet.
i. Illumination – any illumination by letter type as defined in Section 7 shall be
considered. External illumination sources, such as goose-neck lighting, shall also
be considered. Neon signs will be reviewed on an individual basis and
considered if the neon contributes decoratively to the environment and does
not create a presence which diminishes attention to its neighbors. For “OPEN”
signs: only exposed, non-flashing or skeleton neon illumination shall be allowed.
b. Feature sign
c. Pedestrian blade sign
SECTION 8. SPECIALTY SIGNS
1) The following sign types shall be allowed without a permit as long as set standards are met (see
standards table); and where applicable, shall not be included in allowable maximum attached
fascia sign area:
a. Menu vitrine
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b. Inlaid entry vestibule floor sign
c. Café umbrella signs
d. Wall directional
e. Window signs
f. Vehicular sign
2) Up to two (2) of the following sign types shall be allowed per tenant or lease space with
approval of a permit:
a. Awning (valence 6 inch letters / 12 inch logo)
b. Canopy
c. GOBO (ground facing – up to two per street front per tenant – 9 s.f. per sign)
3) The following sign types shall be allowed by City Council / Sign Board consideration only:
a. Wall mural signs
b. GOBO (building facing)
SECTION 10. GENERAL ENVIRONMENT SIGNS
1) The following sign types shall be allowed as approved with this MSP and associated site plan
designating specific locations/quantities:
a. Large media display
b. Advertising column
c. Directory signs
d. Directional pedestrian signs and/or pole signs
e. Business monument signs (see Section 13)
f. Unified district signs (see Section 13)
g. Other sign types not identified
SECTION 11. INCIDENTAL SIGNS
1) The following sign types shall be allowed without permit (see standards table):
a. Operational sign
b. Holiday decoration
c. Service entrance door sign
d. Building identification sign
e. Barricade/construction fence signs
f. Specific tenant sandwich board signs
g. Wall directional (directs patrons to parking areas)
SECTION 12. TEMPORARY SIGNS
1) The following sign types shall be allowed with staff approval of temporary sign permit (see
standards table):
a. Banners
b. Grand Opening Banner
c. Special purpose signs
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SECTION 13. MONUMENT SIGNS – see approved site plan for approved locations
1) Business Monument
a. Sign shall identify the tenant of a primary business / mercantile establishment and be
limited to one tenant name.
b. The sign base and sign structure shall be primarily metal, brick, stone, or masonry
material consistent with respect to style, colors, and details only to the extent that they
establish continuity with the front façade of the tenant building and sensitivity to the
distinctive architectural character of the Southlake Town Square Downtown District.
Multi-colored and monochromatic patterned finishes that reflect a mercantile
establishment’s brand standards, shall be permitted.
c. Maximum base and sign shall not exceed height noted under Table 14, Standards
Tables.
d. Maximum total height is measured from the finished grade at the center of the sign. If
the finished grade at the center of the 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.
e. Shall be internally illuminated or illuminated remotely with code compliant lighting.
External light source may be shrouded or concealed and not be visually intrusive to the
downtown environment.
f. Illuminated 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
g. Copy shall be permanent and identify business /mercantile establishment during entire
period of operation.
h. Placement shall not impede pedestrian R.O.W.
2) Unified District Monument
a. 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.
b. Sign may identify multiple tenant names.
c. The background color for all sign panels on the sign shall be consistent.
d. Additional sign panels may be permitted if incorporated into retaining wall, screening or
if freestanding, mounted on a sign base.
e. The sign base and sign structure shall be primarily metal, brick, stone, or masonry
material sensitive to the distinctive architectural character of the Southlake Town
Square Downtown District.
f. Maximum base and sign shall not exceed height noted under Table 14, Standards
Tables.
g. Maximum total height is measured from the finished grade at the center of the sign. If
the finished grade at the center of the 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.
h. Shall be internally illuminated or illuminated remotely with code compliant lighting.
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SECTION 14. STANDARDS TABLES – any sign type not called out below shall follow Sign Ordinance No.
704-J standards.
Sign Type (A-Z) Applicable
Dimensions Location Quantity Duration Additional
Regulations
Advertising
Column
76 s.f.
Height shall not
exceed 9 ft.
Main Streets
Signs shall have
a minimum set
back of 3 ft.
from back of
curb; 5 ft. from
any other
property line.
Placement must
allow a
minimum of 10
ft. of sidewalk
to remain clear
and shall not
present an
unsafe
condition or
hazard or impair
a required clear
walkway.
1 per street
frontage with a
maximum of 2
(separated by a
minimum 500
ft.)
Permanent
External lighting
where the light
itself and any
supporting
structure are
not visible from
public R.O.W.
Internal lighting
may be utilized
for sculpted
panels.
Arcade 4 s.f. All Streets 1 per lease
space Permanent
Must be located
adjacent to
primary
entrance of
tenant space.
Signs must be
minimum of 8
feet above
finished floor.
Awning Sign
33% of surface
area maximum;
Text limited to
12 inches; logo
18 inches
All Streets 1 per installed
awning Permanent
Text height for
upper story
awnings shall be
limited to 6
inches; logo 12
inches.
Banner - Grand
Opening
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.
All Streets
Must be attached
to building
1 per street
frontage
16 days total.
14 days prior to
event, 2 days
after, May be
displayed one
time within 1
year of issuance
of C.O.
Permitted in
addition to the
two banner
permits allowed
in a calendar
year. The width
of the sign shall
not exceed the
storefront
20
width.
Banner –
Temporary
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.
All Streets
Must be attached
to building
1 per lease
space
16 days total.
14 days prior to
event, 2 days
after, twice per
calendar year
with a 60-day
separation
between
permits.
The width of the
installation shall
not exceed the
storefront
width.
Minimum
clearance above
finished floor
shall be 9 feet.
Banner - Tenant
20 s.f. per side;
may be double
sided
Main Streets Up to 4 per
lease space Permanent
The width of the
installation shall
not exceed the
storefront
width.
Minimum
clearance above
finished floor
shall be 9 feet.
Building
Identification
.75 s.f. per 1
linear ft. of
building
frontage. May
not exceed 50%
of the linear
building
frontage.
Main Streets
Limited to one 1
per principal
building or
public entrance.
Permanent
Should be an
integral part of
the building
façade, non-
illuminated and
of a permanent
material such as
bronze or
masonry. Sign
shall be
proportionate
to the façade on
which it is
located,
respecting the
integrity of the
building
architecture.
Business
Monument
Maximum
Height: 6’-6”
Common Areas
as approved by
City Council
1 per drive or
vehicular
entrance to a
pad site.
Permanent
21
Café Umbrella
Logo shall be
limited to 33%
of the umbrella
panel size
Lettering
displayed along
the umbrella
flap shall be
limited to a
height of 6
inches.
N/A 1 each per
umbrella Temporary
Canopy
1.5 s.f. per 1
foot of linear
frontage
Main Streets 1 per lease
space Permanent
18-inch sign
letter maximum
height at Main
Street; 20
inches where
noted under
above.
Changeable
Copy
25% of overall
allowable sign
area.
External
Streets/Drives 2 per site Permanent
Limited to
monument
signs only. Copy
or graphic
contact may
only change at a
rate of 10
seconds.
Changing
Imagery
Not to exceed
the area of the
building
elevation to
which the image
is projected.
Internal
Streets/Drives N/A N/A
Maximum
allowable
luminance shall
not exceed 350
cd/m2 during
evening (night)
hours.
Projection
(content) shall
have limited
movement.
Hours of
illumination
shall not occur
between the
hours of
midnight and 8
am.
22
Development/C
onstruction Sign
– Non-
residential
Maximum
height - 10 feet
for a double-
sided sign and 8
ft for a single
sided sign.
Maximum area -
64 s.f.; 32 s.f.
per sign face for
a double-sided
sign and 48 s.f.
for a single
sided sign.
At or behind the
property line;
not to be placed
in the public
R.O.W.
1 per street
frontage per
development.
May be installed
after approval
of a site plan or
concept plan.
Sign must be
removed within
one year of the
sign erection
or upon
issuance of a
C.O. for all
buildings on the
site.
Development/C
onstruction Sign
- Residential
Maximum
height - 5 ft,
excluding
finials. Finials on
posts shall not
exceed 9” in
height
48 s.f.; 24 s.f.
per sign face
At or behind the
property line;
not to be placed
in the public
R.O.W.
1 per street
frontage
excluding
residential
streets (Not
permitted to
front on a
residential
street).
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.
Any decorative
element over
the sign frame
shall be limited
to a maximum
height of 9”
Directional
Pedestrian Signs
4.75 s.f.
maximum sign
area
All Streets
Signs shall have
a minimum set
back of 3 ft.
from back of
curb; 5 ft. from
any other
property line.
Placement must
allow a
minimum of 10
ft. of sidewalk
to remain clear
and shall not
present an
unsafe
condition or
hazard or impair
a required clear
walkway.
N/A Permanent
Pole mounted
Minimum
clearance shall
be 7.5 ft above
finished floor
Directory
Total Height: 7
ft. above
finished floor or
Along an
internal drive or
street within
Free-
standing: 1 sign
per street
Permanent See Note #2
23
grade.
Sign may be
double sided.
50 s.f. per sign
face; 100 s.f.
total per sign.
Maximum sign
structure (area
surrounding
sign face) – 70
s.f.
the
development
entrance or
block.
Wall: 1 per
every three
buildings within
a multi-building
development.
Feature 75 s.f. total all
sides Main Streets 1 per lease
space Permanent
Minimum
clearance shall
be 10 feet
above finished
floor and
projects no
more than 42
inches beyond
the surface of
the building to
which it is
affixed or
supported. Sign
shall extend no
more than 1
foot above the
building’s eave
or rafter line,
whichever is
higher.
Gobo (building
or ground
facing)
9 s.f. projection All Streets 1 per lease
space Permanent
Effective
luminance shall
not exceed
3,500 lm during
evening (night)
hours.
Projection
(content) shall
be fixed and
have no
movement.
Illumination
shall only occur
during active
business hours.
24
Inlaid Entry
Vestibule Floor 30 s.f. All Streets 1 per lease
space Permanent
Excluded from
aggregate area
calculations and
sign number
count
Large Media
Display 300 s.f. Internal
Streets/Drives Up to 5 per site N/A See Note #3
Marquee
Not to exceed
20% of the
building
elevation to
which the sign is
attached.
Main Streets
1 per business
or commercial
building
frontage
Permanent
Sign shall not
extend beyond
the top or sides
of the building
elevation to
which it is
attached.
Subject to
review, sign
may project
over the public
right-of-way,
provided the
marquee
maintains a
minimum
setback of 6
feet from back
of curb. Sign
must be
minimum of 8
feet above
finished floor.
Menu Vitrine 3.75 s.f. All Streets 1 per lease
space Permanent
Must be located
adjacent to
primary
entrance of
tenant space
and located
vertically 60
inches above
finished floor.
25
Pedestrian
Blade
Maximum area -
18 s.f. (total); 9
s.f. per sign face
Main Streets
1 per lease
space,
permitted; 2 for
corner buildings
or those that
have a
colonnade in
addition to the
2 attached signs
allowed per
lease space
Permanent
Shall not be
higher than the
eave line or
parapet wall of
the principle
building; shall
be a minimum
of 7 feet above
grade when
located
adjacent to or
projecting over
a pedestrian
way.
Pole Signs
(pedestrian
directional)
4.75 s.f. All Streets
1 per street
frontage with a
maximum of 2
(separated by a
minimum 500
feet).
Permanent
Pole mounted.
Minimum
clearance shall
be 7.5 feet
above finished
floor.
Roof Sign
Not to exceed
20% of the
building
elevation to
which the sign is
most parallel,
up to a
maximum of
200 s.f.
Main Streets
1 per business
or commercial
building
frontage
Permanent
Sign must not
be located
within 200 feet
of any
residential or
hospitality
establishment.
A roof sign shall
extend no more
than 8 feet
above the top
of wall,
marquee or
parapet to
which it is
attached. Sign
structure shall
not exceed a
height of 30
feet overall.
26
Sale/Lease Sign
Existing
Commercial
Building
Maximum
height - 5 ft,
excluding
finials. Finials on
posts shall not
exceed 9” in
height
Maximum sign
area - 64 s.f.
total; 32 s.f.
maximum per
sign face
At or behind the
property line;
not to be placed
on public
R.O.W.
3 signs total; 1
sign per platted
lot.
See Note #1
below
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.
Special Purpose
Maximum
height – 9 f.t.
for a single or
double-sided
ground sign.
Maximum area
– 64 s.f. total;
32 s.f. per sign
face
Attached or
ground
Up to 10 as
needed on and
off site along
internal
streets/drives,
and any one of
the numbered
highways (F.M.
1709 and S.H.
114) at or
behind the
property line;
not to be placed
on public
R.O.W.
Temporary
21 days total.
19 days prior to
event, 3 days
after; Number
of displays per
calendar year as
needed.
Shall be
displayed prior
to special
events and
occurrences.
Specific Tenant
Sandwich Board
Maximum
height – 4 f.t.
Maximum sign
area – 8 s.f.
Permitted only
along sidewalk.
Sign must be
positioned
adjacent to the
public entrance
of a space. Sign
shall not be
positioned
within
landscaping or
in tree pits.
1 per lease
space
Sign shall be
removed every
day after
business hours.
See Note #4.
27
Unified District
Monument
Maximum
Height: XX’-X”
Carroll Avenue,
per common
area as
approved by
City Council
Maximum of 1
per roadway
frontage or
vehicular
entrance to site.
Permanent
Vehicular Sign
1 per lease
space /
establishment
Temporary /
Permanent
Vehicles 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. Sign or
graphics on a
vehicle regularly
parked near an
establishment
and not
regularly used
in the normal
course of
operation of a
business or
establishment
for
transportation
must bear
current license
plates,
registration and
be operational.
Wall Directional 6 s.f.
Internal Streets
/ Drives, Surface
Parking and
Pedestrian Way
1 per
commercial
building
frontage
Permanent
Must be located
at the side or
rear of the
principle
building and/or
architectural
enclosure and
no more than
660 feet from
fixed
destination
and/or activity.
28
Wall Mural
Limited to 1 s.f.
of artwork per 1
linear foot of
elevation not to
exceed 150 s.f.;
100% of display
area permitted.
All Streets 1 per lease
space Permanent
Excluded from
aggregate area
calculations.
Referenced Notes:
Note #1
• Permitted year-round when space is available for lease or sale on the same site.
• The sign shall be removed when the building is one hundred (100) percent occupied.
• 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.
• The sign permit shall be valid until 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.
• 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.
Note #2
• Ground lighting where the light itself and supporting structure are not visible from public RO.W.
Internal lighting may be utilized for sculpted aluminum panels.
• A minimum of 6” of sign structure must completely surround the sign face. May display map on
one side and community notices on the other. Only the word ‘Directory’ (or similar) or
development name and shall be legible from a distance of more than 8 ft. Sign shall only be
located along an internal drive or street within the development.
Note #3
Shall be oriented for pedestrian viewing at an appropriate height below 40 feet. Screen must
not unreasonably interfere with or create a distraction that poses a hazard to driver’s operation
or a motor vehicle on streets abutting or fronting the building on and /or plaza. There shall be
no effects of movement, flashing or similar effects in the individual images. Screen must not be
located within 200 feet of any residential or hospitality establishment. Maximum allowable
luminance shall not exceed 5000 cd/m2 during daylight hours and 500 cd/m2 during evening
(night) hours. Content (message or graphic) may only change at a rate of 10 seconds. Any
malfunction, fails or moments where the screen ceases to operate in its usual or normal
programmed manner, thereby causing flashing or any other similar effects shall be repaired or
disconnected altogether within 72 hours by the operator.
Note #4
• Sign shall not exceed 2 ft in width.
• Placement must allow a minimum of 4 ft of sidewalk to remain clear.
29
• Reader boards are prohibited.
• If integrated. lettering may be internally illuminated. The illumination of advertisement or
display is prohibited.
• Molded plastic signs are prohibited.
• Sign shall be self-supporting with either legs or supports that are continuous with the sign face
or with a base or feet that are no wider than the sign.
SECTION 15. WINDOW SIGN STANDARDS
Number of
Specialty Display
Window Sign
Maximum Sign Face
Area
Additional Regulations
1 per street
frontage
28 s.f. or 20% of
window area,
whichever is less.
Please refer to
Section 7, Table 5
regarding electronic
media
• Sign may be permanent.
• Sign must be located within the display window entirely inside
the building at a distance no less than 6 inches and more than 2
feet from the storefront.
• Sign shall be placed no higher than 7 feet above the finished
floor.
• Skeleton neon signs (exposed neon) shall be permitted.
• Illuminated signs shall not be animated (i.e. blink, flash, etc.) or
intentionally turn on and off.
*The following standards shall apply to applied window graphics:
Number of Signs
per Window ∗
Maximum Aggregate
Area for All Signage*
Comments
1 per window NA
• Sign may be permanent.
• Lettering (i.e. tagline, etc.) shall not exceed 6 inches in height.
• Excluded from aggregate area calculations and sign number
count.
Number of Signs
per Storefront ∗
Maximum Aggregate
Area for All Signage*
Comments
1 per window 100% of total
window area
• Vacant/Remodel Window Sign - Sign shall be permitted during
construction improvements to obscure views into the lease
space.
• May be used to display opening announcement, DBA,
renderings of tenant improvements, etc.
• Sign shall be temporary and displayed until the establishment
opens for business.
30
Example of a Vacant/Remodel Window Sign
Number of Signs
per Storefront ∗
Maximum Aggregate
Area for All Signage*
Comments
1 per window
28 s.f. or 20% of
window area,
whichever is less.
• Opening Soon Sign - Sign shall be permitted for new
establishment or an establishment with a substantial change in
ownership.
• Sign shall be temporary and displayed until the establishment
opens for business.
**The following standards shall apply to electronic media displays:
Number of
Electronic Media
Displays**
Maximum Area
Additional Regulations
2 per street
frontage
32 s.f. total; 16 s.f.
per display monitor
for spaces under
10,000 s.f.
Applicable to CRT/LCD/Plasma displays:
• Display must be aesthetically incorporated into storefront
design and positioned a minimum of 12 inches behind the
storefront glazing.
• Display shall remain on during the operator’s hours of
operation only.
• Displays shall incorporate still images only. Image shall
remain fixed for a minimum of 15 seconds. Images must
gently “fade” into one another. Flashing imagery is
prohibited.
• Maximum allowable luminance shall not exceed 350 cd/m2
during evening (night) hours.
31
SECTION 16. ADMINISTRATION
In addition to the ordinance noted below, please refer to Section 9 of the City of Southlake Sign
Ordinance No 704-J.
15.1 Role of the Administration Official
i. The City Manager shall appoint the Administrative Official who shall conduct a
sufficiency review of the application and, shall have the authority to administer
and enforce the terms of the conditions of this ordinance.
If the applicant complies with the spirt of an ordinance and is within 7.5% of the
set parameters, the Administrative Official shall have the authority to grant or
deny the permit submittal.
15.2 Sign Permit Required
i. No signs, unless exempted under Section 5.3 and Section 5.4, shall be erected,
displayed, or altered within the Southlake Town Square Downtown District
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 shall be issued unless a
Certificate of Occupancy (for existing development) or building permit (for new
development) has been issued.
15.3 Application (In addition to the ordinance noted below, please refer to Subsection 9.3 of
the City of Southlake Sign Ordinance No 704-J)
i. Application for a permit shall be made as required by this ordinance and the
following information shall be submitted as separate documents:
The Administrative Official shall review a permit application and make a decision
on whether to grant or deny the permit within five (5) 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 five (5) days. Thereafter, the Administrative Official shall make a decision
on whether to grant or deny the permit within five (5) 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 five (5) day period shall be deemed
denied.
Any application for which the Administrative Official fails to grant a decision
within the first five (5) day period shall be deemed denied;
If a sign is not completed within 180 days, the sign permit is null and void.
Individual tenant signage programs will have 60 days to be completed from the
date of being issued a sign permit;
32
A complete application for a temporary sign that requires a permit shall be
approved or rejected within one (1) business day of the receipt of the signed
permit application. If the permit is denied, a written statement of the reason(s)
for denial shall be provided within five (5) days, if requested.
ii. Precedence:
In the event of tenant changeover of a lease space, allowances previously
granted shall transfer to the new lessee;
Allowances granted within the District shall establish a standard acceptable
throughout Southlake Town Square.
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
1. Sign Post:
a. Material: Shall be of 3 – 4” extruded metal with decorative finials.
b. Height: Shall not exceed 5 ft in height, excluding finials. Finials shall not exceed 9” 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 32 sf. 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.
33
Appendix B
Placement Guidelines for Key “General Environment Signs”