[HISTORY: Adopted by the Common Council of
the City of Jefferson 5-20-2008 by Ord. No. 6-08. Amendments noted where
applicable.]
It is declared that the regulation of signs
within the City is necessary and in the public interest to:
A.
Protect property values within the City;
B.
Preserve the beauty and the unique character of the
City by aesthetically complementing the development which a sign identifies;
C.
Promote a healthy and properly designed business environment;
D.
Safeguard the general public from damage and injury
which may be caused by the faulty and uncontrolled construction of
signs within the City;
E.
Protect against hazards to vehicular traffic movement
through improper placement of signs; and
F.
Promote the public safety, welfare, convenience and
enjoyment of travel and the free flow of traffic within the City.
A.
It shall be illegal for a sign to be erected, constructed,
repaired, altered, located, maintained, or in any manner the message
thereon changed, in the City except as provided in this chapter.
B.
All new signs constructed or maintained contrary to
the provisions of this chapter are declared to be illegal.
C.
Any person or entity violating any provisions of this
chapter or failing to comply with any orders or regulations made hereunder
shall be subject to the penalties hereof and those otherwise provided
by law.
As used in this chapter, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
A sign located on a property which becomes vacant and is
unoccupied for a period of 60 days or more; any sign which pertains
to a time, event or purpose which no longer applies; or a sign which
no longer directs attention to a business, activity or service offered
or product sold on the premises.
That area enclosed by one continuous line, connecting the
extreme limits or edges of writing, representation or similar figures
or characters, together with any material forming an integral part
of the display or forming the backing surface or background on which
the message or symbols are displayed on a sign. The area shall be
determined using the largest sign area or silhouette visible at any
one time from any point. This area does not include the main supporting
sign structure, but other ornamental attachments are to be included
in determining area of sign.
A fireproof space frame structure with translucent, flexible,
reinforced vinyl or similar covering designed in awning form, but
whose principal purpose and use is signage. Such signs may be internally
illuminated by fluorescent or other light sources in fixtures approved
under national and local electrical codes.
Any sign intended to be hung either with or without frames,
possessing characters, letters, illustrations or ornamentations applied
to paper, plastic, fabric or similar flexible material of any kind.
National flags, flags of political subdivisions and symbolic flags
of any institution or business shall not be regulated as banner signs
for the purpose of this chapter.
The maximum building width measured at grade on a straight
line parallel to the street on which the building is addressed.
The lineal distance of the building space occupied by the
particular business measured on a straight line parallel to the street.
Where a business does not parallel a street, the front foot shall
be measured along the exterior of the building space occupied by the
particular business.
A sign that is designed so that characters, letters or illustrations
can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface
of the sign.
The Plan Commission of the City of Jefferson.
Any sign giving the name or names of principal contractors, subcontractors, architects and lending institutions responsible for construction on the site where the sign is placed, together with other pertinent information included thereon. (See § 292-11E.)
Any sign used to identify future residential or nonresidential development or such a development under construction. (See § 292-11).
A type of changeable copy sign whose message or display is
presented with patterns of lights or other means that may be changed
at intermittent intervals by an electronic process.
A parapet-type wall used as part of the fascia of a flat-roofed
building and projecting not more than six feet from the building face
immediately adjacent thereto. Such a wall shall enclose at least three
sides of the projecting flat roof and return to a parapet wall or
the building.
"Banner sign," as defined above.
Any sign which is supported by structures or supports in
or upon the ground and independent from any building.
A sign which calls attention to a new business or the announcement
of a change in ownership of a business.
The overall height of a sign and/or the supporting structure
of a sign, where applicable, measured from the nearest adjacent road
grade at the edge of the pavement to the highest point of the sign
and/or supporting structure of the sign.
Collectively, the owner(s) of the premises on which a sign is located and the lessee(s) of the premises to which such sign pertains, all of whom must sign the application for a sign permit. (See § 292-7B.).
A sign that met code regulations when it was originally erected,
either by adherence to a previous sign ordinance or by a waiver granted
to that ordinance, and which met code regulations or was legal nonconforming
immediately prior to the adoption of this chapter, but which does
not comply with all the present regulations of this chapter.
The replacing or repairing of a part or portion of a sign
made unusable by ordinary wear, tear or damage beyond the control
of the owner or the reprinting of existing copy without changing the
wording, composition or color of said copy.
A freestanding sign which identifies a multiple tenant commercial building or center. (See § 292-9.)
The establishment of an identification program for any multitenant operation within the City, including but not limited to office parks, industrial parks and multitenant office and retail buildings. The intent of a master sign program is to give a uniform theme of size, color and style to signs in such a development. Each sign covered by a master sign program must be permitted separately. (See § 292-7B.)
The area around the base of a sign, determined to be necessary
for aesthetics and safety by the Commission. Meaningful open space
shall be no less than 250 square feet and shall be landscaped with
plantings and grass or ground cover as per site development standards.
A commercial development in which there exists a number of
separate commercial activities, in which there are appurtenant facilities
(such as parking or pedestrian mall) and which is designed to provide
a single area in which the public can obtain varied products and services.
Distinguishing characteristics of a MTCB may, but need not, include
common ownership of the real property upon which the center is located,
common wall construction, a multiple-occupant commercial use of a
single structure. For the purpose of this chapter, MTCB shall also
include separate parcels sharing common walls and facilities but not
necessarily common owners. MTCB can be office, retail or mixed use
in character.
A sign which is not appurtenant to the use of the property
or to a product sold or a service offered upon the property where
the sign is located and which does not identify the property where
the sign is located as a purveyor or source of the merchandise or
services advertised upon the sign.
A wall extending above the plate line of the building.
A tapered or dove-tailed banner, sign, streamer or flag,
with or without any representation or writing thereon.
Any sign which is intended to be and is so constructed as
to be lasting and enduring, remaining unchanged in character, condition
(beyond normal wear) and position and in some permanent manner affixed
to the ground, wall or building.
A collection of like-use buildings, residential, office or
industrial in nature, designed and constructed contemporaneously and
in close proximity to each other as part of a single integrated project,
including but not limited to residential subdivisions and office or
industrial parks.
The point at which any part of the main roof structure first
touches or bears upon an external wall.
A temporary sign supporting a candidacy for office or urging
action on any other matter on the ballot of a primary, general or
special election or urging that a candidacy for office or any other
matter be placed on a ballot of a primary, general or special election.
Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or a building
or designed to be permanently attached to the ground or a building,
including but not limited to trailorized signs and vehicles.
Any sign other than a wall sign affixed to any structure,
building or wall whose leading edge extends beyond such structure,
building or wall.
A geographic area which predominantly features homes, and includes but is not limited to areas which transition from commercial to residential. [See § 292-9D(3)(j).]
The highest point of the main roof structure or highest point
on a parapet, but shall not include cupolas, pylons, projections or
minor raised portions of the roof.
A sign that extends above the roofline.
A temporary sign which indicates that some premises or vacant
land are for sale, lease or rent.
A two-sided portable sign constructed of wood, cardboard
or similar rigid material generally displayed outside of a commercial
establishment to identify a product or service.
A sign for seasonal commercial establishments, including
but not limited to garden centers, Christmas tree lots and fruit and
vegetable stands.
A sign used to identify a business whose front is under a
roof overhang, covered walkway, covered porch or open lattice walkway.
Any device for visual communications and the structure which
supports it which is used or is intended to attract the attention
of the public when the display of this device is visible beyond the
boundaries of the property upon which the display is made. The term
"sign" shall not include any flag, badge or insignia of the United
States, State of Wisconsin, Jefferson County, City of Jefferson or
foreign countries or official historic plaques.
"Pennant," as defined above.
Any sign constructed of cloth, canvas, wood, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, plastic or other like materials, with or without frames, and any type of sign not permanently attached to the ground, wall or building which is permitted for display for a limited period of time only. (See § 292-11.)
Any sign on which the names of occupants or the uses of a
building is given, including but not limited to those utilized at
office buildings, retail centers and other MTCBs.
A sign designed and located solely for the purpose of relieving
traffic congestion and directing and promoting the safe flow of traffic.
Any sign painted on, or attached to and erected parallel
to the face of, or erected and confined within the limits of, the
exterior wall of any building or structure and supported by such wall,
building or structure and which displays only one advertising surface.
This definition includes signs composed of individual letters or symbols.
Any sign placed inside or upon a window facing the outside
of a building and which is usually intended to be seen from the exterior
of the building. Signs displayed on glass panels which are integral
to doors visible from the exterior of the building will be considered
to be window signs for purposes of this chapter.
A.
Reasonable repairs and alterations may be made to
legal nonconforming signs, provided that they may not be relocated,
expanded, enlarged, repositioned or raised in height. However, in
the event any such sign and/or its supporting structure is hereafter
damaged or altered to an extent exceeding 50% of the reproduction
value according to appraisal thereof by competent appraisers, or is
removed by any means whatsoever, including an act of God, such sign
must be restored, reconstructed, altered or repaired to conform with
the provisions of this chapter or permanently removed.
B.
Any change in ownership or tenancy of premises which
is accompanied by any change in the signs for the premises shall necessitate
that the signs for the premises be brought into compliance with the
provisions of this chapter.
A.
The Building Inspector shall have the authority to
revoke any sign permit determined to be constructed or that is being
maintained in violation of the permit or the provisions of this chapter.
B.
Notice of the Building Inspector's decision to revoke
a sign permit and the reason(s) therefor shall be served upon the
holders of the permit with notice of right to appeal:
(1)
By delivering personally copies of the notice to the
holders of the permit or to one of their officers; or
(2)
In the event that no such person can be found on the
premises, by affixing a copy of the notice in a conspicuous position
at an entrance to the premises and by the certified mailing of copies
of the notice to the post office addresses of the holders of the permit
specified in the application for the permit.
C.
The holders of the permit may appeal to the Commission
the decision of the Building Inspector to revoke the permit. This
appeal must be filed within 15 days from the date when the notice
was served. The Commission shall consider this appeal at its next
regularly scheduled meeting subject to established agenda length limits.
The decision of the Commission shall be final.
D.
If no appeal has been taken by the end of the fifteen-day
appeal period, or if the Commission has upheld the decision of the
Building Inspector on appeal, the permit is deemed revoked and the
sign is illegal. The Building Inspector then shall initiate the procedure
for the removal of the illegal sign.
A.
The Building Inspector is hereby authorized to remove
any illegal sign as defined by this chapter.
B.
Before taking action to require removal of any illegal
sign, the Building Inspector shall give a written compliance notice
to the holders of the permit for the sign or, if no permit has been
issued, to the owner(s) of the premises on which such sign is located
and to the lessee(s) of the premises to which such sign pertains.
The notice shall state the reasons and grounds for removal, specifying
the deficiencies or defects in such sign with reasonable definiteness,
and the violations charged, if any. Such notice shall specify what
repairs, if any, will make the sign conform to the requirements of
this chapter and specify that the sign must be removed or made to
conform with the provisions of this chapter within the compliance
period provided below. Service of notice shall be made on the parties
specified above by delivering personally copies of the notice to said
parties or, in the event that no such person can be found on the premises,
by affixing a copy of the notice in a conspicuous position at an entrance
to the premises and by the certified mailing of copies of the notice
to the post office addresses of the holders of the permit as specified
in the application for the permit, if any, or to the last known post
office addresses of the parties specified above.
D.
Re-erection of any sign or any substantially similar
sign on the same premises after a compliance notice has been issued
shall be deemed a continuance of the original violation.
E.
If the holders of the permit or the owner(s) and lessee(s)
of the premises upon which the sign is located have not demonstrated
to the satisfaction of the Building Inspector that the sign has been
removed or brought into compliance with the provisions of this chapter
by the end of the compliance period, the Building Inspector shall
certify the violations to the City attorney for prosecution.
F.
Removal. The Building Inspector is authorized to cause
the removal of any sign adjudged to be illegal by a court of competent
jurisdiction if the court so orders. The actual cost and expense of
any such removal by the Building Inspector shall be borne by the holders
of the permit or, if no permit had been issued, by the owner(s) of
the premises on which the sign is located and the lessee(s) of the
premises to which such sign pertains. All such parties shall be jointly
and severally liable for such cost and expense and subject to the
penalties provided by the provisions of this chapter.
A.
Requirement of permit.
(1)
A sign permit shall be required before the erection,
re-erection, construction, alteration, placement, maintenance or location
of all signs except as otherwise provided in this chapter. Where signs
are illuminated electrically, a separate electrical permit shall be
obtained.
(2)
A permit shall not be required for the following signs
or activities; provided, however, that such signs or activities shall
be subject to any and all applicable provisions of this chapter:
(b)
Any sign four square feet or less in area unless
otherwise prohibited by this chapter.
(c)
Repainting of signs without changing wording,
composition or colors or minor nonstructural repairs of signs (except
electrical repair).
(d)
Relocation of signs if required by the City.
(g)
Residential sale and lease signs six square
feet or less in area.
(h)
Address markers/signs.
(j)
Signs located in the interior of any building
or structure.
(3)
Nothing contained herein shall prevent the erection,
construction, alteration, placement, maintenance or location of official
traffic, fire and police signs, signals, devices and markings of the
State of Wisconsin and the City or other public authorities or the
posting of notices required by law.
B.
Permit application and expiration.
(1)
All applications to obtain a sign permit shall be
made on a form furnished by the Building Inspector. All such applications
shall be signed by the owner(s) of the premises on which the sign
is to be located and the lessee(s) of the premises to which the sign
pertains, or their respective authorized agents, which signatures
shall indicate agreement to be bound by the terms of this chapter.
Throughout this chapter, these owner(s) and lessee(s) may be referred
to collectively as holders of the permit, as defined herein. No permit
under this chapter shall be issued to any person or entity other than
the owner and/or lessee of a premises as provided herein, it being
intended that no sublessee (or equivalent) of a premises shall be
entitled to obtain a permit hereunder.
(2)
Requirement of plans. Two copies of specifications,
plans, renderings or other pictorializations of nonresidential signs
shall be submitted with the application for each sign in excess of
four square feet in area. One copy shall be returned to the applicant(s)
at the time the permit is granted. Such submissions shall detail the
size of the sign, the method of attachment or support, the location
of the proposed sign, the location of any building(s) on the premises
and any other signs located or proposed to be located on the premises
or within 150 feet of the proposed sign, the materials to be used,
the color(s) of the sign and the name, address and profession of the
person designing plans and specifications for such sign. Plans for
supports for any sign subject to excessive stress as determined by
the Building Inspector shall be accompanied by structural computations.
Sufficient data shall be submitted to show that the supporting surface
and other members of an existing building to which the sign is to
be attached are in good condition and are adequate to support the
load, including the proposed sign.
(3)
Permit fees.
(a)
In conjunction with the filing of an application
for a sign permit, the applicants must tender a fee as set by separate
resolution of the City Council.
(b)
The owner of a legal nonconforming sign which
has been removed or brought into conformance with the terms of this
chapter shall not be required to pay a fee in order to obtain the
initial permit for the replacement or conforming sign.
(c)
Where work for which a permit is required by
this chapter is begun before a permit has been obtained, the fees
specified shall be quadrupled, but the payment of such quadrupled
fee shall not relieve any persons from complying fully with the requirements
of this chapter in the execution of the work or from any penalties
prescribed herein.
(4)
Procedure.
(a)
All applications for sign permits shall be reviewed
initially by the Building Inspector, who may issue signs which, pursuant
to this chapter, can be issued without review by the Commission. The
Building Inspector shall have the authority to deny such permits if
the proposed signs do not comport (conform) with the requirements
of this chapter.
(b)
Should the Building Inspector conclude, in his
discretion, that the Commission should review an application for a
sign permit, or should this chapter require such review for a particular
sign, the application will be forwarded to the Commission for review
at its next regularly scheduled meeting subject to established agenda
length limits. The Commission may vote to recommend approval or disapproval
of the application based on the following factors:
[1]
The exterior architectural presentation and
functional plan of the proposed sign will not be so at variance with
or so similar to the exterior architectural presentation and functional
plan of signs already constructed or in the course of construction
in the area or so out of harmony with the area as to potentially contribute
to substantial depreciation in the property values of said area.
[2]
The proposed sign conforms to the location,
size and style requirements set forth in this chapter.
[3]
The proposed sign conforms to the City's long-range
planning for the area as set forth in the City's Comprehensive Master
Plan, as that term is defined in § 62.23(3), Wis. Stats.,
or relevant portions thereof.
[4]
The proposed sign shares similar architectural
or building material features of the principal building and the color
will be appropriate for the location.
[5]
The application and proposed sign satisfy the
plan review procedures and guidelines applicable to signs described
in this subsection of this Municipal Code.
(c)
The Commission may establish guidelines, with
the confirmation of the City Council, which further define and interpret
this chapter. Those guidelines, if any, shall be made available to
all sign applicants.
(d)
Upon ratification or disapproval by the Commission,
the application shall be returned to the Building Inspector, who shall
issue approved permits or notify applicants of disapproval of their
application and the reasons therefor.
C.
Construction requirements.
(1)
Wind pressure and dead load requirements. All signs
shall be designed and constructed to withstand a wind pressure of
not less than 30 pounds per square feet of area and shall be constructed
to receive dead loads as required in the Building Code[1] or other ordinances of the City.
(2)
Lighting. Illumination shall be so installed to avoid
any glare or reflection into any adjacent property or onto a street
or alley to create a traffic hazard as determined by the Building
Inspector. Signs in residential corridors shall not be illuminated
between 10:00 p.m. and sunrise the following morning.
D.
Prohibited lighting, movement, and signs.
[Amended 4-20-2010 by Ord. No. 5-10; 5-17-2011 by Ord. No. 5-11; 9-20-2011 by Ord. No. 10-11]
(1)
Lighting. Bare light bulbs shall not be permitted. No flashing, blinking,
or rotating lights shall be permitted for either permanent or temporary
signs, other than for time and temperature signs if so permitted by
the Commission. See § 292(9)(I). Flashing and blinking shall
be defined as those that change their appearance no more than once
every five seconds.
[Amended 11-3-2016 by Ord. No. 13-15]
(3)
Prohibited
signs. It shall be unlawful to erect or maintain the following signs:
E.
Required signs. Every building or group of buildings
must be identified by a street number.
F.
Location requirements.
(1)
Obstruction of exits. No sign shall be constructed
or maintained so as to obstruct any door, window, stairway or fire
escape of any building.
(2)
Signs prohibited within or in proximity to limits of any street or highway (exempting the Central Business District addressed in § 292-9L below).
(a)
No sign shall be erected, placed, located or
maintained within the limits of any street or highway. Street or highway
limits include all the dedicated right-of-way, encompassing the traveled
portion of the highway, the shoulders, ditches and adjacent dedicated
areas. This prohibition applies to freestanding signs and those placed
on trees, utility poles, fence post stakes and all other structures
within the highway limits.
(b)
Failure to comply with the provisions of this
section shall be a violation of § 86.19, Wis. Stats., as
well as this chapter.
(c)
Any sign in violation of this section shall
be removed without notice by the Highway Department or the Police
Department.
(d)
This prohibition shall not apply to signs placed
within the limits of streets or highways by duly constituted municipal,
county or state authorities for the guidance or warning of traffic,
as provided in § 86.19(1) and (4) Wis. Stats., or to mail
boxes and paper boxes.
(e)
No sign shall be erected, placed, located or
maintained at or near the intersection of any streets so as to obstruct
free and clear vision; or at any location where, by reason of position,
shape and color, it may interfere with, obstruct the view of or be
confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device; or which
makes use of the words "Stop," "look," "danger" or other word, phrase,
symbol or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead or
confuse traffic.
(f)
The City of Jefferson Regulatory Committee may
allow a special exception to this section in unique circumstances
when they make the following findings:
(3)
Construction over public property. No person or entity shall erect or cause to be erected any sign which projects over any public sidewalk, street, alley or public place unless allowed per § 292-7F(2)(f) above.
G.
Inspections. Unless waived by the Building Inspector,
all signs for which a permit is required shall be subject to the following
inspections:
(1)
Electrical inspection on all illuminated signs.
(2)
Site inspection to ensure that the sign has been constructed
according to an approved application and a valid sign permit.
(3)
Total area.
[Amended 6-7-2016 by Ord.
No. 7-16]
(a)
The area of a permitted wall sign shall be computed as 0.65
square foot X the lineal front foot of the lot line or 1.0 square
foot X the building front foot, whichever is greater, to a maximum
of 120 square feet of signage, including wall and freestanding.
(b)
The maximum allowable area of wall signs for retail centers
shall be computed as 1.2 square feet per lineal foot of business frontage.
(c)
Individual wall signs submitted to the Commission in conjunction with a master sign program shall be permitted a minimum area of 24 square feet to a maximum area of 120 square feet, subject to Commission approval. (See § 292-10.)
(d)
Total permitted sign area allowed for a building or center may be apportioned between wall signs and/or a freestanding sign if permitted pursuant to § 292-9D. Where a changeable copy sign is permitted pursuant to § 292-9B, the area of the changeable copy sign must be included in the total computation of allowable signage.
(e)
The total area specifications outlined above apply to each side
of a building located within the central business district, which
sides are accessible to the public via alleyway or through street.
H.
Maintenance. Each sign, including those specifically exempt from the permit requirements of this Code, shall be maintained in good structural condition at all times. All signs shall be kept neatly painted, including all metal parts and supports thereof that are not galvanized or of rust-resistant material. The Building Inspector shall have the authority at any time to inspect and order the painting, repair, alteration or removal of a sign which constitutes a hazard to safety, health or public welfare by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence or change in local conditions. The Building Inspector shall follow the procedure of notification concerning such maintenance or removal as outlined in § 292-6.
A.
Single-family residence. A single-family residence
is allowed a name plate sign not to exceed three square feet in area.
B.
Public uses, institutional uses, schools and churches.
(1)
The total permanent sign area allowed for public uses,
institutional uses, schools and churches shall be determined by the
Commission.
(2)
One-half of the freestanding sign area allowed by the Commission may be a changeable copy sign. (See § 292-3).
(3)
Traffic directional signs are allowed if deemed appropriate
by the Commission.
C.
Residential subdivisions, condominiums and apartment complexes are allowed entryway signs or markers if approved by the Commission. Proponents of such developments shall follow the application procedures outlined in § 292-7B, and, if such entryway signs or markers are requested in that application, the Building Inspector must forward the application to the Commission in accordance with the procedures therein.
D.
Multiple-tenant commercial building (MTCB). All applicants for a single sign for an MTCB must file an application for such sign with the Building Inspector, which application must be forwarded to the Commission for consideration pursuant to the procedures outlined in § 292-7B.
E.
Planned developments. All applicants for an entryway sign or marker or any other single sign for a planned development must file an application for such sign with the Building Inspector, which application must be forwarded to the Commission for consideration pursuant to the procedures outlined in § 292-7B.
A.
Master identification signs.
(1)
Master identification signs shall not contain the
names of tenants or occupants of the center unless the identification
of the center is or includes the name of a principal tenant.
(2)
The purpose of the master identification sign is to
advertise a center. Therefore, a minimum of 50% of the sign must be
devoted to center identification, rather than individual tenants for
multitenant commercial buildings.
(3)
Application for a master identification sign must be made to the Building Inspector, who shall forward to the Commission for consideration pursuant to the procedure outlined in § 292-7. The following entities may make such application:
(a)
Retail MTCB or centers of six or more individual
tenants or at least 50,000 square feet of building area.
(b)
Office MTCB or centers of six or more tenants
having exterior entrances.
(d)
Developments that have multiple entry points
(e.g., churches, schools), where multiple buildings are used, along
with multiple uses, and a need to direct traffic within the campus
exists.
(4)
MTCBs or centers of five or fewer tenants may not make application for a master identification sign except as provided in Subsection A(3)(a), above.
(5)
Architecture of master identification signs.
(a)
Master identification signs must be architecturally
integrated with the principal building on the property. The following
considerations must be made when designing a master identification
sign:
[1]
The base of the sign must be constructed of
masonry or aluminum products. The tone and texture of the base shall
reflect the principal building construction as close as possible.
The base of the sign must be equal or larger in width to the face
of the sign.
[2]
The color scheme of the sign shall follow the
color scheme of the principal building.
[3]
Architectural features (such as sills, piers,
reveals, capstones, medallions, etc.) which are part of the architectural
makeup of the building shall be incorporated into the sign.
[4]
The sign face shall be constructed of aluminum,
masonry or similar products. Polycarbonate backgrounds shall be prohibited,
unless this cannot be achieved (i.e., changeable copy), in which case
it shall be subject to Commission review and approval.
(b)
The Commission may approve, deny or request
changes to a sign based on the architecture of the sign.
(6)
Area of master identification signs.
(a)
MTCBs or centers under 100,000 square feet of
building area may be permitted one freestanding sign of no more than
120 square feet in area for retail and 80 square feet in area for
office, subject to Commission approval.
(b)
MTCBs or centers between 100,000 square feet
and 500,000 square feet of building area may be permitted one freestanding
sign per arterial street of 120 square feet in area each or one sign
per building or center of 180 square feet in area, 120 X 1.5 = 180,
subject to Commission approval.
(c)
Determination of signage area for MTCBs or centers
over 500,000 square feet of building area shall be determined by the
Commission.
(7)
Master identification signs shall meet meaningful
open space requirements.
(8)
The Commission shall not approve any master identification sign greater than 16 feet in height for retail or 12 feet in height for office except for centers over 500,000 square feet in building area, which height shall be subject to Commission discretion, considering the factors set forth in § 292-9A(6).
(9)
No freestanding signs other than the master identification
signs(s) allowed pursuant to this section will be permitted for any
MTCB or center; provided, however, that any tenant (but not more than
two tenants per MTCB or center) occupying 1/3 or more of the building
area of an office MTCB or center may be identified on such master
identification sign, such identification to be subject to all terms,
conditions, restrictions and other requirements of this chapter which
apply to such sign. If a tenant's name is part of the MTCB or center
name, the tenant's name shall not be repeated elsewhere on the sign.
B.
Changeable copy signs.
(1)
The computation of sign area for changeable copy signs
shall be included in the total permitted sign area allowed for the
building or development, where changeable copy signs are permitted
by this chapter and/or by the Commission.
(2)
Changeable copy signs must be integrated into the
freestanding or wall sign for such building or development.
(3)
In addition to the uses specifically enumerated elsewhere
in this chapter, changeable copy signs may be permitted for businesses
of a seasonal nature, public uses, institutional uses, schools, churches,
motels/hotels and theatres, if approved by the Commission to be justified
at such location and for such use. Unless in the discretion of the
Commission, such use is justified, changeable copy signs shall not
be permitted for retail use.
(4)
Where changeable copy signs are allowed, the following
restrictions apply in all cases, subject to further restriction as
may be imposed by the Commission to particular applications:
(a)
There shall be only one changeable copy sign
on each lot or parcel of land.
(b)
If freestanding, the sign may be double-faced.
(c)
Each sign shall be permanently installed or
located.
(d)
Each sign shall be placed in such a manner so
as to not interfere with, confuse or present any hazard to traffic.
(e)
The changeable copy portion of the sign must
be no greater than 50% of the total sign face area and must occupy
a secondary position to the name of tenant.
C.
Tenant directory boards. Exterior tenant directory
boards for the purpose of guiding pedestrians to individual businesses
within a MTCB or center are allowed, subject to the provisions hereof.
Letters on a tenant directory board identifying occupants may not
exceed three inches in height. Reorganization of a tenant directory
board may be done for purposes of appearance or clarity. Changes in
the structure, style or design of a tenant directory board or to add
or delete the name of an occupant shall be allowed unless such tenant
directory board is a legal nonconforming sign, in which case such
tenant directory board must first be brought into compliance with
all of the provisions of this chapter. Tenant directory boards must
be attached to the building.
D.
Freestanding signs.
(1)
All applications for freestanding signs shall be filed with the Building Inspector and forwarded to the Commission for consideration pursuant to the procedure outlined in § 292-7. A freestanding sign may be permitted by the Commission for the following uses:
(2)
Architecture of freestanding signs.
(a)
Freestanding signs must be architecturally integrated
with the principal building on the property. The following considerations
must be made when designing a freestanding sign:
[1]
The base of the sign must be constructed of
masonry or aluminum products. The tone and texture of the base shall
reflect the principal building construction as close as possible.
[2]
The color scheme of the sign shall follow the
color scheme of the principal building.
[3]
Architectural features (such as sills, piers,
reveals, capstones, medallions, etc.) which are part of the architectural
makeup of the building shall be incorporated into the sign.
[4]
The sign face shall be constructed of aluminum,
masonry or similar products. Polycarbonate backgrounds shall be prohibited,
unless this cannot be achieved (i.e., changeable copy), in which case
it shall be subject to Commission review and approval.
(b)
The Commission may approve, deny or request
changes to a sign, based on the architecture of the sign.
(3)
Placement and construction requirements.
[Amended 6-7-2016 by Ord.
No. 7-16]
(a)
No more than one freestanding sign shall be permitted on a lot.
A freestanding sign shall be permanent in construction and subject
to the requirements of the Building Code of the City as determined,
imposed and inspected by the Building Inspector.
(b)
The sign may be double-faced.
(c)
The minimum sign setback for any freestanding sign shall be
five feet. The height of a freestanding sign shall not exceed the
setback of the sign from any property line, up to a maximum of 12
feet. *Note: All state highways may have a larger setback established
by Wisconsin DOT. § 86.191, Wis. Stats., as may be amended.
See also § 292-7(F) of this Code.
(d)
The area of a freestanding sign shall be regulated and approved by the Commission in consideration of the factors enumerated in Subsection D(3)(c) above and shall be computed as either 0.65 square feet X the linear front foot of the lot line or one square foot X the building front foot, whichever is greater, to a maximum of 120 square feet, as allowed by the Commission. Should the Commission approve both a freestanding sign and a wall sign for a given building or center, the area allowed must be apportioned between these signs.
(e)
A freestanding sign must identify the individual business, building
or building complex only by name, or by name and principal service
offered, where the name does not identify the principal service offered.
The sign may identify up to two businesses that occupy the same building
and may identify the availability of an automatic teller machine on
the site.
(f)
The sign shall be located in an area of meaningful open space,
which shall be appropriately landscaped.
(g)
The sign structure or post of a freestanding sign must be wrapped
in or constructed of a material compatible with the materials utilized
in the construction of the building to which the sign refers. The
sign must also be architecturally compatible with the building to
which it refers.
(h)
Freestanding signs which are located in residential corridors
shall be constructed of materials which are complementary to the style
and appearance of surrounding development.
(i)
These areas shall use earthen tones and understated signs.
(j)
Any property within 2,500 feet of the Highway 26 bypass may request a waiver of the total size requirement pursuant to § 292-13 of this code to allow for an additional free standing sign or wall sign. The maximum allowable square footage sign area under this waiver shall not exceed 500 square feet for an additional free standing sign or wall sign.
E.
Shingle signs.
(1)
Shingle signs shall be allowed without the necessity
of obtaining a permit, provided that any such sign is a part of a
master sign program, and provided further that such sign is in compliance
with all other applicable provisions of this chapter.
(2)
One shingle sign may be allowed for each business
front and shall be adjacent to the business which it identifies.
(3)
The shingle sign shall be suspended from a roof overhang,
covered walkway, covered porch or open lattice walkway. No part of
a shingle sign shall extend beyond the edge of the overhang. Signs
placed parallel to the street may be attached to the fascia. A minimum
clearance of six feet eight inches must be maintained between the
bottom of the sign and the nearest grade or sidewalk. The size of
a shingle sign may not exceed one square foot in area.
(4)
The shingle sign must display only the name of the
individual business, building or building complex which it identifies.
F.
Traffic directional signs.
(1)
All permits for traffic directional signs shall be
issued by the Building Inspector upon approval of a proper application
therefor.
(2)
No more than one single-faced, double-faced or four-sided
freestanding sign shall be permitted for each driveway. No traffic
directional sign shall be affixed to a pole or structure greater than
five feet in height.
(3)
The area of each side of a traffic directional sign
shall not exceed six square feet. If a driveway is shared by two or
more businesses or premises, and each such business or premise would
be permitted one traffic directional sign pursuant to this chapter,
such signs may be incorporated into one eight-square-foot traffic
directional sign affixed to a pole or structure no greater than five
feet in height.
(4)
Twenty-five percent of the area of each side of a
traffic directional sign may be used for the business name or logo.
G.
Wall signs.
(2)
A wall sign may identify the individual business,
building or building complex only by name, or by name and principal
service offered where the name does not identify the principal service
offered.
(3)
Total area.
(a)
The area of a permitted wall sign shall be computed
as 0.5 square foot X the lineal front foot of the lot line or 0.65
square foot X the building front foot, whichever is greater, to a
maximum of 120 square feet for retail or 80 square feet for office
or mixed use.
(b)
The maximum allowable area of wall signs for
retail centers shall be computed as 1.2 square feet per lineal foot
of business frontage.
(c)
Individual wall signs submitted to the Commission in conjunction with a master sign program shall be permitted a minimum area of 24 square feet to a maximum area of 120 square feet, subject to Commission approval. (See § 292-10.)
(d)
Total permitted sign area allowed for a building or center may be apportioned between wall signs and/or a freestanding sign if permitted pursuant to § 292-9D. Where a changeable copy sign is permitted pursuant to § 292-9B, the area of the changeable copy sign must be included in the total computation of allowable signage.
(e)
The total area specifications outlined above
apply to each side of a building located within the central business
district, which sides are accessible to the public via alleyway or
through street.
(4)
Placement.
(a)
A wall sign may not project more than 12 inches
from the wall surface.
(b)
A wall sign must be placed on an exterior wall
of the business which the sign identifies.
(c)
No part of a wall sign shall extend more than
four feet above the plate line, nor shall a wall sign extend above
a roofline except when it is erected on a parapet wall or fascia which
extends above the roofline of a flat roof on at least three sides
of a building.
(d)
A wall sign may be allowed on a roof surface
only if the roof surface is within 25° of vertical (such as a
mansard roof) and only if the Building Inspector deems that such use
is acceptable.
H.
Window signs. Permanent window signs do not need a permit if less than 10% of the window is covered by all of the window signs. If greater than 10% of the window is covered, a sign permit must be obtained pursuant to the procedures outlined in § 292-7. In no instance may more than 25% of the window space be covered by window signs. All window signs which are to be illuminated must be inspected and approved by the Building Inspector.
I.
Time and temperature signs. Application for time and temperature signs shall be made to the Building Inspector, who shall forward it to the Commission pursuant to the procedures outlined in § 292-7.
J.
Informational signs. Signage developed for purely informational reasons (except menu boards as more fully described below) shall be allowed without the necessity of obtaining a permit so long as such signs comply with all other applicable provisions of this chapter. Such signs must be no greater than four square feet in area. Examples of information signs are signs indicating separate buildings or services on a premises (e.g., body shop, car wash, drive-up window). Informational signs consisting of menu boards may exceed four square feet in area; provided, however, that no menu board, regardless of size, may be erected unless a permit is first obtained pursuant to § 292-7 above.
K.
Signs on vehicles.
(1)
Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and/or trailers,
which are parked on a public right-of-way, public property or private
property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way, for longer
than two consecutive hours, where the apparent purpose is to advertise
a product or direct people to a business or activity located on the
same or nearby property are prohibited. This provision shall not prohibit
signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and/or trailers, such as lettering
on motor vehicles, where the sign is incidental to the primary use
of the vehicle or trailer for the business and moved on a daily basis.
(2)
No permit shall be required for signs placed on or
affixed to vehicles and/or trailers.
L.
Central Business District (CBD).
(1)
Shingle signs shall be allowed in the CBD, provided
they recognize the historic significance and conform to Jefferson's
Downtown Redevelopment Plan as determined by the Planning Commission.
(2)
All CBD shingle sign permit applications shall be
submitted for consideration by the City Planning Commission. Under
no circumstances will a permit be granted if the sign will impair
any traffic vision triangle or otherwise jeopardize the public safety,
health or welfare. All CBD shingle signs must reflect uniformity and
enhance the historical significance of the building and CBD.
(3)
In approved cases due to the unique nature of the
building or location, a building may have multiple facades and therefore
the ability to obtain multiple signs (shingle or otherwise allowed
through other applicable provisions of this chapter) through application
to the City Planning Commission process as each facade may be considered
to each sign approved.
A.
All MTCBs and planned developments, including but
not limited to office parks, industrial parks, office centers, retail
centers and office and limited business structures, and churches and
schools that have a campuses, must have a master sign program if more
than one sign will be erected in conjunction with such building, development
or center as defined herein.
B.
An application for a master sign program must first be filed with the Building Inspector, who shall forward it to the Commission for consideration pursuant to the procedures outlined in § 292-7.
C.
Each individual sign proposed in accordance with an
approved master sign program must be applied for and permitted separately
in accordance with this chapter and in no event shall any recommendation
or approval of a master sign program be deemed an approval of or permission
to construct any particular sign under that program. All applications
for permits for such individual signs must be filed with the Building
Inspector for approval under the terms and conditions of the previously
approved master sign program.
D.
A master sign program, as presented to the Building
Inspector and the Commission, must include the following components:
(1)
An aesthetically developed theme on color, size and
style. Ordinarily, no more than three colors shall be used.
(2)
A proposed location of all signs for the building,
development or center.
(3)
The proposed size of individual signs, which may be
expressed in maximums and minimums for purposes of the proposed master
sign program, but which must be proposed in exact terms when application
is made for such individual signs after approval of the program.
(4)
Categories of signs proposed, which may include some
or all of the following:
(b)
Tenant identification signs.
[1]
Tenant identification signs at individual tenant
entrances in an office center may not exceed four square feet in area
if permitted.
[2]
Retail tenants occupying not less than 20% of
an office and limited business structure with individual entrances
to the exterior may be allowed tenant identification similar to tenants
in retail centers. In both instances, the area of such signage shall
not exceed 1.2 X the lineal front foot of the space occupied.
(c)
Tenant/directory board for an office center or office and limited business structure. (See § 292-9C.)
(d)
Entrance markers.
(g)
Such other signs as requested by the applicant.
(5)
Type of signage proposed (i.e., individual letters,
box, etc.).
(6)
Blueprints, drawings and written policies governing
the color, size, style, location and other features of the proposed
signs.
E.
The Commission, in its discretion, will consider the
type and location of the building site, the proposed tenant mix, the
size of the development and such other factors as it deems appropriate
in evaluating a master sign program.
A.
Temporary signs do not require a permit from the Building Inspector, provided the sign is specifically allowed by this chapter. Temporary signs shall be permitted in all zones, unless otherwise specified, and may not be illuminated. Unless otherwise specified in this chapter, a temporary sign may not be erected more than 60 days in a twelve-month period. Any temporary sign erected longer than 14 consecutive days may be removed by the Building Inspector pursuant to the procedure outlined in § 292-6.
B.
Development signs.
(1)
A development may have one development sign on each
street which the development abuts. Each sign must be placed on the
property being developed.
(2)
Each development sign may not exceed 32 square feet
in area. This sign may be single- or double-faced and may be perpendicular
or parallel to the street.
(3)
Each sign may not exceed eight feet in height.
(4)
All development signs shall be removed within 10 days after the completion of a nonresidential development or, in the case of a residential development, after 90% of the units are sold or rented. The Building Inspector shall have the authority to cause such sign(s) to be removed if, in his discretion, a nonresidential development has been completed or, upon information and belief, 90% of the units of a residential development have been sold or rented. In effecting such removal the Building Inspector shall follow the notice procedures outlined in § 292-6.
C.
Sale, lease and rent signs.
(1)
Premises or vacant land for sale, lease or rent may
be allowed one temporary sign on each street which the premises or
land abuts. Each sign must be placed on the property being sold, leased
or rented. The sign(s) may be single- or double-faced.
(2)
Nonresidential signs will be originally allowed for 180 days or until the premises is at least 90% occupied or vacant space of 2,000 square feet or less remains to be sold, leased or rented. Upon occupancy of 90% or less than 2,000 square feet of vacant space remaining, the sign must be removed within seven days. The Building Inspector shall have the authority to cause such sign(s) to be removed if, in his discretion or upon information and belief, the premises is at least 90% occupied or less than 2,000 square feet of vacant space remains to be sold, leased or rented. In effectuating such removal the Building Inspector shall follow the procedures outlined in § 292-6.
(3)
Permitted sign area for nonresidential sale, lease
or rent signs is as follows:
D.
Political signs.
(1)
The display of any political signs shall be limited
to a period of 60 days immediately preceding the primary, general
or special election to which they refer.
(2)
The sign area of a political campaign sign displayed
in other than residential or agricultural zoning districts shall not
exceed 32 square feet. The sign area of such signs displayed in residential
or agricultural zoning districts shall not exceed six square feet.
In any zoning district, such signs may be freestanding and shall not
exceed six feet in height.
(3)
Political campaign signs shall not be displayed on
any building or grounds that are owned, operated or maintained by
any public agency or on any City-owned post or traffic control device
or on any pole, post or appurtenance owned or operated by a utility.
Such signs shall be located only on private property with the owner's
consent. Where the land is vacant, such consent shall be indicated
by the owner's signature on the sign. No more than one sign per candidate
or matter shall be allowed on any individual property.
(4)
The candidate or entity responsible for the erection or distribution of any such signs shall be jointly and severally liable for the removal of them within 10 days after the primary, general or special election to which they refer. Noncompliance will subject such responsible candidate or entity to a forfeiture of $25. If such signs are not removed within the prescribed period, the Building Inspector may remove them pursuant to the procedures outlined in § 292-6.
E.
Contractor signs.
(1)
Contractor signs shall be not more than four square feet in area per contractor, subcontractor, architect or lending institution and may be freestanding. Such signs may be single- or double-faced. Pursuant to § 292-7, no permit is required for such a sign.
(2)
Contractor signs may not exceed six feet in height.
(3)
All contractor signs may be consolidated on one sign, the area of which consolidated sign is to be calculated at four square feet per contractor, subcontractor, architect or lending institution listed, to a maximum area of 24 square feet. All contractor signs may also be incorporated within the development sign and subject to the restrictions set forth in § 292-9D. In the event such consolidation or incorporation occurs, a sign permit must be obtained through the procedures outlined in § 292-7.
(4)
Contractor signs must be removed within seven days from the first occupancy of the premises. The Building Inspector shall have the authority to cause such signs to be removed if, in his or her discretion or upon information and belief, the first occupancy of the premises has occurred or the work done by the contractor, subcontractor or architect, or financed by the lending institution, has been completed. In effectuating such removal, the Building Inspector shall follow the procedures outlined in § 292-6.
G.
Banners.
(1)
Banners may not exceed 30 square feet in area.
(2)
No business shall be issued sign permits for more
than four banners in any year.
(3)
There shall be no more than two banners erected, per
site, at one time.
(4)
Banners erected at multitenant commercial business
common areas shall be limited to advertisement of common events at
the MTCB and not advertisement of single-store events.
H.
Temporary window signs.
(1)
Temporary window signs are allowed for all commercial
uses and do not require a permit.
(2)
In no instance may more than 25% of the total glass
area of window space be covered by temporary window signs. The area
of such signs shall not be deducted from the total area of signs allowed
for a particular premise or business, but the total area of all window
signs at such premise or business shall not exceed the total sign
area allowed for such use.
(3)
Temporary window signs must be placed behind a glass
surface and may not be placed in unglazed openings. Temporary window
signs shall not contain internal lighting.
I.
Seasonal signs. Signs for seasonal commercial establishments
shall be permitted if so approved by the Building Inspector upon application
therefor. The area of such signs shall not exceed 32 square feet.
In the discretion of the Building Inspector, the temporary permit
for a seasonal sign shall be granted for the term of the season instead
of the regular fourteen-day period. A permit is not required for seasonal
signs used solely by the owner or tenant of a farm to advertise the
sale of farm products raised on said farm in an agricultural district.
J.
Decorative seasonal/holiday banners. Banners which
do not advertise specific events at a property, but are used for decorative
display may be permitted for a period of 90 days if approved by the
Commission.
Any sign authorized or otherwise permitted under
this chapter shall be allowed to contain noncommercial copy in lieu
of any other copy.
A.
Purpose. Sign ordinance waivers are intended to allow
flexibility in sign regulation while fulfilling the purpose of this
chapter. Nothing in this chapter, however, is intended to permit the
erection or maintenance of signs which create the potential of public
harm or for which there is no public benefit or which are in conflict
with the City's master plan or relevant portions thereof.
B.
Procedure.
(1)
Any applicant who desires a waiver from any provision
or requirement of this chapter may request an oral hearing before
the City Plan Commission by submitting a written request and application
therefor to the City Clerk not less than 10 days before the next regularly
scheduled meeting of the Commission. A fee in an amount established
by resolution of the City Council from time to time shall be required
of the applicant at the time that a request for a hearing before the
Commission is made. In addition to the fee paid, all professional
fees incurred by the City in relation to the request shall be reimbursed
by the applicant.
(2)
The Plan Commission shall review such requests for
waivers using the following criteria:
(a)
Area enhancements.
[1]
The sign as proposed will not result in an undue
concentration of signage which renders it difficult or confusing to
read existing signs;
[2]
The proposed sign is unique and of exceptional
design or style, so as to enhance the area.
[3]
When, in the exercise of discretion, the Planning Commission recognizes
that a sign contributes significantly to the historical Downtown District,
it may be allowed, provided that said projecting signage meets all
remaining requirements of the Code.
[Added 4-20-2010 by Ord. No. 5-10]
[4]
Any projecting sign allowed under this section shall not be larger
than eight square feet and be installed to ensure 10 feet of clearance
above the sidewalk.
[Added 4-20-2010 by Ord. No. 5-10]
[5]
Off-premised signs are prohibited under this chapter unless, in the
exercise of its discretion, the Plan Commission determines that the
applicant’s overall square footage of the legal nonconforming
existing uses are reduced by the approval of the permit. Any waiver
granted must meet all other provisions of this chapter and reduce
the overall square footage of the total off-premised signs of the
applicant.
[Added 5-17-2011 by Ord. No. 5-11]
[6]
Height exemptions for nonresidential properties located within
1,500 feet of the Highway 26 bypass corridor. Applicants in this area
may request a waiver to the required sign height. The request may
not exceed 100 feet above the adjacent road grade. An applicant receiving
a waiver pursuant to this provision must comply with all other provisions
of this chapter.
[Added 4-4-2018 by Ord. No. 3-18]
(b)
Site difficulties. Unusual site factors preclude
the construction of a sign in accordance with this chapter which would
be visible to the roadway adjacent to the site frontage.
(3)
Should the Commission find that a waiver should be
granted, the application will be forwarded to the Building Inspector
with directions to issue a permit in accordance with its decision.
If the Commission finds that a waiver should not be granted, it shall
inform the applicant of the reasons for such decision, in writing,
within 10 days of the date of such decision. The decision of the Commission
shall be final unless the Commission requests review of same by the
City Council.
