[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4200), 9-25-1989]
The sign regulations hereinafter set forth supplement the district regulations for each district in Chapter 405.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4200-A), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 2008 §1, 11-11-1996]
A.
The purpose
of this Chapter is to ensure that signs serve as identification of
the building or business on that premises and not as an advertisement.
Such signs and lights shall not overload the public's capacity to
receive information.
1.
Signs
shall not cause visual confusion or create any interference with pedestrian
or vehicular traffic, or distract public attention from devices regulating
such traffic. Signs shall generally conform to the character of the
neighborhood and enhance the visual harmony of a commercial center.
Signs shall not be permitted which constitute a hazard to public health,
convenience, welfare and/or safety.
2.
It is
the intent of this Chapter to encourage excellence in design of signs,
to encourage competition toward attractive signs, and to discourage
the type of competition which produces signs of ever-increasing size,
brightness and garishness. Colors shall be used with restraint, and
excessive brightness shall be avoided.
3.
The
provisions of this Chapter shall govern the erection of all signs
and outdoor display structures, together with their appurtenant and
auxiliary devices in respect to size, color, content, construction,
location and fire safety.
4.
For
the purpose of assuring compliance with these requirements, no person
shall erect or maintain within the City any sign except as specified
in this Chapter. Signs not in conformance with this Chapter shall
not be permitted in any district as an accessory use or structure.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4200-B), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 2008 §2, 11-11-1996]
A.
As used
in this Chapter, the following terms shall have these prescribed meanings:
- ADVERTISING SIGN
- A sign which directs attention to a business or profession conducted, or to a commodity or service sold, offered or manufactured, or to an entertainment offered on the premises where the sign is located.
- ANIMATED SIGN
- See "Moving Sign" in this Section.
- AWNING
- A structure entirely supported by the wall or canopy to which it is attached and which is covered by canvas, cloth or other similar temporary material and/or which can be retracted or rolled to the structure by which it is supported.
- BULLETIN BOARD SIGN
- A sign which identifies an institution or organization on the premises on which it is located and which contains the names of the institution or organization, the name of the individuals connected with it, and general announcements of events or activities occurring at the institution, or similar messages.
- BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION SIGN
- A sign that identifies the name of a business or company on the premises to which the sign relates. A company emblem, logo, or trademark shall be considered to be a business identification sign when used alone or when combined with lettering identifying the business.
- CANOPY
- A structure other than an awning attached to a building at the inner end and supported on the outer end. A portico shall be considered a canopy for the purposes of this Chapter.
- CIVIC SIGN
- A sign which identifies or describes the services or functions of premises or facilities used, maintained, or owned by any educational institution, church, religious society or public utility.
- COMMERCIAL CENTER SIGN
- A freestanding, non-movable sign depicting a name, logo, trademark or other similar symbol, address or any combination of name, symbol or address, the use of which is limited to the identification of a commercial and/or office center.
- CONSTRUCTION SIGN
- A temporary sign used during construction of new buildings or reconstruction of or additions to existing buildings, which identifies the project and denotes the owner, architect, engineer, contractor and/or financing institutions of the project.
- CREDIT OR CHARGE CARD SIGN
- A sign advertising the acceptance of, or being a replica of, any credit cards or charge plates whether national, local or otherwise.
- DIRECTIONAL SIGN
- A sign which indicates a direction for vehicular or pedestrian traffic or other movement, and does not contain advertising.
- DIRECTORY SIGN
- Identification sign containing more than one (1) name within a single sign.
- DISPLAY AREA
- See "Sign Facing or Surface".
- ELECTRIC AWNING
- A space frame structure with translucent flexible reinforced vinyl covering designed in awning form, which is internally illuminated by fluorescent or other light sources in fixtures approved under national and local Codes.
- ERECT
- To build, construct, attach, hang, rehang, place, affix, or relocate and includes the painting and repainting of permanent window signs.
- ESTABLISHMENT
- A single building in which one (1) or more business activities are conducted, provided however, that when a building is divided into separate parts by unpierced walls extending from the floor to the ceiling, each part is a separate establishment.
- FLAGPOLE
- A pole on which governmental and non-governmental signs are flown. Flagpoles shall be considered structures for the purpose of this Chapter and shall require a building permit.
- FLAGS
- Flags of any nation, State, and/or City shall not be considered signs. They may be displayed subject to the provisions of this Chapter. Should such flags be used to call attention to a given property as an advertising sign, they shall be considered signs. See also "Non-Governmental Flags".
- FLASHING SIGN
- An Illuminated sign on which artificial or reflected light is not steady or on which colors change.
- FLUTTERING SIGN
- A sign which flutters, and includes pennants, banners, or other flexible material which moves with the wind or by some artificial means.
- FREESTANDING SIGN
- Any non-movable sign not affixed to a building.
- GASOLINE SERVICE STATION PRICE SIGN
- A sign containing thereon the price per gallon of gasoline or diesel fuel sold at said station. The words "Gas, Ethyl, Self-Service, Mini-Service, Cash, Credit Card, Regular, Premium, Diesel, or Unleaded" or a combination thereof, also may be placed on said sign face.
- GOVERNMENTAL SIGN
- A sign identifying a governmental facility.
- GROUND SIGN
- A sign which has its bottom portion erected upon or supported by the ground, a ground planter box or other supports.
- HANGING SIGN
- A sign which hangs more than eight (8) inches beyond the plane of the wall on which it is erected or attached, and which has its message perpendicular to the vertical axis of the wall.
- IDENTIFICATION SIGN
- A sign identifying the name of a person(s) occupying a building, or identifying the address of a building.
- ILLUMINATED SIGN
- A sign which is illuminated by light sources located on or in the sign or at some other location.
- INFORMATIONAL SIGN
- An informational sign which gives parking, building address, fire protection, traffic flow (other than directional signs), height clearance, pedestrian or other similar information, and which does not advertise the business or use located on said lot.
- LICENSED SIGN ERECTOR
- A person, his/her agents and employees, who have secured a sign erector's license issued by St. Louis County or other governmental agencies.
- MARQUEE
- A permanent structure supported entirely or largely by the building and which projects from the wall of the building.
- MARQUEE, CANOPY AND AWNING SIGN
- A sign attached to or illustrated on a marquee, canopy or awning respectively.
- MEMORIAL OR TABLET SIGN
- The permanent part of a building which denotes the name of the building, date of erection, historical significance, dedication, or other similar information.
- MONUMENT SIGN
- A sign which has its bottom portion or base erected upon the ground. See illustration in Subsection (B) of this Section.
- MOVING SIGN
- A sign, all or any part of which moves by any means. Such sign includes a fluttering sign.
- NON-GOVERNMENTAL FLAGS
- Flags of fraternal, civic or corporate organizations. Such flags are considered signs.
- PERMANENT WINDOW SIGN
- A sign of permanent construction materials that is permanently affixed to either side of the glass of an exterior door or window. For the purpose of this Chapter, a glass block wall shall be deemed a window.
- POST SIGN
- A detached sign which is supported by one (1) stationary post longer than three (3) feet above the mean grade line of the ground at its base, provided that this shall not include a permitted real estate sign, residential subdivision sign, or informational sign, as set forth and regulated herein.
- POLITICAL SIGN
- A temporary sign advocating or opposing any political proposition or candidate for public office.
- PORTABLE SIGN
- A sign which is not securely affixed to the ground or otherwise affixed in a permanent manner to an approved supporting structure.
- PREMISES
- That portion of a lot or building occupied by a single occupant, exclusive of common area, if any, shared with adjacent occupants. Permitted sign area shall be separately calculated for multi-tenant commercial buildings only when said tenants have a separate entrance for their exclusive use. If the building is permitted a ground sign, the permitted sign area for tenants shall be reduced accordingly.
- PRIVATE SALE OR EVENT SIGN
- A temporary sign advertising private sales of personal property such as "house sales", "garage sales", "rummage sales", and the like, or not-for-profit events such as picnics, carnivals, bazaars, game night, art fairs, craft shows, and Christmas tree sales.
- PROJECTING SIGN
- A sign which projects more than eight (8) inches beyond the plane of the wall on which the sign is erected or attached.
- REAL ESTATE SIGN
- A sign pertaining to the rental, lease or sale of property. Real estate signs shall be excluded from the definition of pole signs.
- REAL ESTATE SUBDIVISION SIGN
- A temporary real estate sign advertising an entire residential subdivision.
- ROOF SIGN
- A sign erected on a roof. Marquee, canopy, wall, or hanging signs which do not project more than twelve (12) inches above a parapet wall shall not be construed as a roof sign, provided however, that the projection above said parapet wall shall not exceed the amount of the sign below the parapet wall level. The generally vertical plane of a mansard type roof shall be interpreted as a wall of a building.
- SEASONAL DISPLAY
- Decorations and displays celebrating or denoting religious holidays or events, the seasons of the year, State and National holidays and similar occasions; provided however, that this shall not include pennants, non-permitted fluttering flags or similar materials prohibited herein. Such seasonal displays may be in place for a period no longer than thirty (30) days. If any seasonal display conveys a commercial message or bears the name of the business, it shall be considered a sign.
- SIGN
- A device, a structure or part of a structure, including structural trim, or monument which displays or upon which is displayed any colors, message, name or symbol of any kind for the purpose of advertising, announcing, directing or attracting attention from the outside of a building. A cross or other religious symbol on a religious building shall not be considered a sign, nor shall a work of art which in no way identifies a business product be considered a sign. Sign supports or a monument base are not a part of the sign.
- SIGN AREA
- The area of the sign face. See "Sign Facing or Surface" in this Section for further details.
- SIGN FACING or SURFACE
- Any surface of a sign upon, against or through which a message is displayed or illustrated on the sign, including structural trim, which displays or upon which is displayed any color, message, name or symbol of any kind for the purpose of advertising, announcing, directing or attracting attention from the outside of a building and which can be seen from a single location on an adjacent street provided that the side, or thickness, of a sign shall not be counted as a separate sign face unless an advertising message is conveyed thereon. Where a sign has two (2) display faces back to back, the area of only one (1) face shall be considered the sign face area. Where such signs have multiple sides or faces, including signs in the form of cylinders, spheres, or other types of three dimensional figures, the entire surface is a sign face. Where a sign has more than one (1) display face, all areas which can be viewed simultaneously shall be considered a sign face area. A monument base shall not be considered part of the sign face provided that no advertising message is conveyed thereon. Where a sign or letters are attached to a building where there is no apparent confining border, the sign area shall be measured as follows: See illustration in Subsection (B) of this Section.
- SIGN STRUCTURE
- The sign and all parts associated with its construction.
- SIGN SUPPORTS
- All structures by which a sign is held up, including, for example, poles, braces, guys and anchors.
- SPECIAL DISPLAY SIGN
- A sign not exceeding twelve (12) square feet, used for holidays, public demonstrations or the promotion of civic welfare or charitable purposes.
- STANDARD OUTDOOR ADVERTISING STRUCTURE AND/OR BILLBOARD
- All signs which advertise products, services or businesses which are not located on the same premises as the sign, including billboards, detached pole signs on separate parcels, wall signs and signs otherwise attached to buildings and/or supported by uprights or braces on the ground. Real estate signs are excluded from this definition.
- STRUCTURAL SUPPORT
- The structure supporting a freestanding sign. This shall not be considered part of the sign face, providing it is not part of the sign message.
- STRUCTURAL TRIM
- The molding, battens, cappings, nailing strips, latticing and platforms which are attached to the sign structure.
- SUBDIVISION IDENTIFICATION SIGN
- A permanent sign identifying a residential subdivision or street name within a subdivision. Residential subdivision signs shall be excluded from the definition of post signs.
- SUBDIVISION MONUMENT SIGN
- A monument sign identifying an entrance to a subdivision.
- TEMPORARY WINDOW SIGN
- A sign of paper, cardboard, canvas, cloth or other non-permanent materials affixed to the inside of an interior window or glass door.
- TEMPORARY SIGN
- A sign intended for a limited or intermittent period of display.
- VEHICULAR ADVERTISING SIGNS
- Advertising signs on vehicles or trailers parked consistently and prominently near a business establishment or store for the purpose of advertising that company. Such signs shall not include construction trailers parked at a working construction site.
- WALL SIGN
- A sign attached to the wall of any building or against the generally vertical plane of a mansard type roof with the plane of the sign face parallel to the plane of the wall below the roof line.
- WARNING SIGN
- A sign limited to messages of warning, danger or caution.
- WINDOW SIGN
- Any sign which is posted on, painted on, or otherwise constantly attached to and is visible through a display window.
- ZONING CODE
- The Zoning Code of the City of Town and Country and the Zoning District Map related thereto.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4200-C), 9-25-1989]
It is hereby declared to be the intent of this Chapter that
wherever any Section of this Chapter does not specify a particular
sign, the sign shall be deemed to be the type defined herein which
is most nearly descriptive of its content, physical type, or characteristics.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4210), 9-25-1989]
A.
Subject
to the limitations and restrictions set forth below with respect to
the following signs, the provisions of this Chapter shall not apply
to the placement of any of the following signs:
1.
Official notices. Official public notices and notices posted
by public officers in the performance of their duties.
2.
Regulatory, traffic and warning signs. Governmental and
other signs for control of traffic and other regulatory purposes,
including street signs, danger signs and signs of public service companies
indicating danger or aids to service or safety, including signs showing
the placement or location of underground public utility facilities
and signs necessary to identify the location of public telephones.
3.
Temporary display posters. Temporary display posters in
connection with civic and non-commercial health, safety and welfare
campaigns, provided that such posters shall be removed within ten
(10) days after the conclusion of the campaign, signs not to exceed
twelve (12) square feet.
4.
Historic signs. Commemorative signs, symbols, memorial plaques
and historical tablets, not to exceed three (3) square feet, placed
by historical societies.
5.
Signs
in the interior of a building, not visible from the exterior of the
building.
6.
Mailbox
name/address in a residential district, signs not to exceed two (2)
square feet.
B.
The following
types of signs shall be exempt from the provisions of this Chapter
relating to permits and the payment of permit fees:
1.
Directional.
2.
Governmental.
3.
Holiday
or seasonal display, not to exceed twelve (12) square feet.
4.
Informational
sign painted on a door or a window, not in excess of two (2) square
feet in sign face area.
6.
Nameplate
name/address/profession not in excess of two (2) square feet in sign
face area.
7.
Informational.
8.
Political.
9.
Real
estate on a residential lot.
10.
Temporary
window.
11.
Non-commercial
window signs.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4220), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 3077 §1, 10-24-2005]
A.
Permit Required. Unless specifically exempted by this Sign
Code, no sign shall be erected, altered, or relocated after the effective
date of this Chapter until a sign permit has been secured from the
Director. Sign permits shall be renewed prior to their expiration
dates as specified below.
B.
Fee. Payment of a seventy-five dollar ($75.00) fee shall
be required for each sign permit issued. Payment of an annual fee
may be required in an amount set by the Board of Aldermen.
C.
Expiration Of Permits.
1.
Permits
for each sign, except temporary signs, shall expire on December thirty-first
(31st) of the second (2nd) year following the year of issuance. All
renewals of such permits shall be for three (3) years.
2.
Permits
for temporary signs shall expire ninety (90) days from the date of
issuance of such permit unless otherwise provided by this Sign Code.
D.
Applications For Sign Permits. All applications for sign
permits shall be made in writing on a form supplied by the City and
shall contain or have attached thereto the following information:
1.
Name,
address, and telephone number of applicant.
2.
Location
of building, structure, or lot to which or upon which the sign is
to be attached or erected.
3.
Two
(2) blueprints or ink drawings of the plans, specifications, and method
of construction and attachment (i.e., either to a building or in the
ground) of all proposed signs, including scale drawings and other
pertinent graphics which will clearly illustrate size, height and
appearance of the sign in relation to its surroundings.
E.
Revocation Of Sign Permit.
1.
Any
sign permit granted in accordance with the terms of this Sign Code
may be revoked by the Board of Aldermen if the Board finds that any
of the following conditions have occurred:
a.
Violation
of any of the conditions or terms of the sign permit.
b.
Failure
to begin and diligently advance the project or construction so authorized
within one (1) year from the date the sign permit is issued.
c.
Discontinuance
of the authorized project or construction for a period of one (1)
year.
d.
Violation
of any requirements of the Zoning Code or the Sign Code of the City
of Town and Country.
2.
Procedure. Upon its own motion or at the request of the
Director, the Board of Aldermen shall hold a hearing on the proposed
revocation, after giving written notice to the permittee at least
ten (10) days prior to the hearing. The Board shall make its findings
in writing and shall forward to the permittee a copy of the written
decision. The decision shall become effective ten (10) calendar days
after the meeting at which said decision is made.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4225), 9-25-1989]
A.
It shall
be the duty of the Director to interpret, administer and enforce the
Sign Code.
B.
Conditional Sign Permits And Variances.
2.
The
Board of Aldermen is authorized to grant variances from the strict
application of the Sign Code when it finds that compliance with the
strict application of the Sign Code is not practicable under the circumstances
and conditions appertaining to the particular situation and it further
finds that the proposed sign:
a.
Is
compatible with the surrounding area;
b.
Is
appropriate for the activity identified;
c.
Is
legible in the circumstances in which it is to be seen;
d.
Shall
not detract from the appearance of the surrounding area and the community
as a whole; and
e.
Shall
not constitute a safety hazard to pedestrians or vehicular traffic.
3.
The
Board of Aldermen is authorized to grant conditional sign permits
when required by this Code, if it finds that the proposed sign:
a.
Is
compatible with its surroundings;
b.
Is
appropriate for the activity identified;
c.
Is
legible in the circumstances in which it is to be seen;
d.
Shall
not detract from the appearance of the surrounding area and the community
as a whole; and
e.
Shall
not constitute a safety hazard to pedestrians or vehicular traffic.
4.
The
Board shall not grant any variances from the strict application of
the Sign Code and shall not grant any conditional sign permits until
holding a public hearing on the proposed sign. Notice of such hearing
shall:
a.
Be
posted on the property for which the sign is proposed; and
b.
Delivered
or mailed to those persons owning property within three hundred (300)
feet of the property for which the sign is proposed. The owners of
the property to receive such notice shall be determined solely from
the tax rolls of the City at such time as the notice is given.
C.
Enforcement. Failure to comply with this Sign Code may result in revocation of sign permits as set forth in Section 420.060(E) herein. In addition, any person, as owner, agent, or lessee of the building or premises on which a violation of the Sign Code exists, and who commits, takes part in, or assists in that violation shall, upon construction thereof, be guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall be fined not less than ten dollars ($10.00) nor more than one hundred dollars ($100.00) for each and every day that such violation continues. Any person who has been served with an order by the Director to remove or cease any violation of any provision of this Sign Code, and who fails to comply with said order within ten (10) days after receipt of such notice, shall be subject to a civil penalty of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00).
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4226), 9-25-1989]
A.
No non-conforming
sign shall be changed, expanded, or altered in any manner which would
increase the degree of its non-conformity, or be structurally altered
to prolong its useful life, or be moved in whole or in part to any
other location where it would remain non-conforming.
B.
Termination Of Non-Conforming Signs.
1.
Immediate termination. The following signs or sign features
shall be terminated within three (3) months after the effective date
of this Chapter except as otherwise expressly permitted by this Chapter:
Flashing signs, animated and moving signs, signs which obstruct free
ingress to or egress from a fire escape, door, window, or other required
access way, signs which by reason of size, location, content, coloring,
or manner of illumination obstruct the vision of drivers, or obstruct
or detract from the visibility or effectiveness of any traffic sign
or control device on the streets and roads within the City, and signs
which advertise a business no longer conducted, or a product no longer
sold, on the premises where such sign is located or signs for which
no building permit has been issued. Termination of the non-conformity
shall consist of removal of the sign or its alteration to eliminate
fully all non-conforming features.
2.
Termination by abandonment. Any non-conforming sign structure,
the use of which as a sign is discontinued for a period of ninety
(90) consecutive days, regardless of any intent to resume or not to
abandon such use, shall be presumed to be abandoned and shall not
thereafter be reestablished except in full compliance with this Chapter.
Any period of such discontinuance caused by government actions, strikes,
material shortages, or acts of God, and without any contributing fault
by the non-conforming user, shall not be considered in calculating
the length of discontinuance for purposes of this Subsection.
3.
Termination by change of business. Any non-conforming sign
advertising or relating to a business on the premises on which it
is located shall be terminated upon any change in ownership of such
business.
4.
Termination by damage or destruction. Any non-conforming
sign damaged or destroyed, by any means, to the extent of one-third
(⅓) of its replacement cost new shall be terminated and shall
not be restored.
5.
Termination by amortization. Any non-conforming sign not
terminated pursuant to any other provision of this Chapter shall be
terminated no later than the date stated below:
|
|
Original Value Of Sign As Shown On Building Permit
|
Time Period (following effective date of this Chapter)
By Which Termination Of Non-conformity Is Required
|
|---|---|---|
|
Less than $4,000.00
|
12 months
| |
|
$4,001.00 to $10,000.00
|
18 months
| |
|
More than $10,000.00
|
24 months
|
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4227), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 2008 §3, 11-11-1996]
A.
Compliance With Building Code. No Person shall erect or
maintain within the City any sign without first complying with the
Building Code of the City. Nothing in this Chapter shall exempt signs
from meeting the requirements of the City Electrical and Building
Codes.
B.
Prohibited Signs. The following types of signs shall be
prohibited in the City.
1.
Electric
awnings.
2.
Flashing
signs.
3.
Fluttering
signs.
4.
Illuminated
signs in the interior of a window for the purpose of being seen from
the exterior.
5.
Internal
signs:
 |
6.
Moving
signs (operated mechanically, electrically, electronically, or by
wind or other forces of nature).
7.
Paper,
cloth, cardboard, or other similar non-permanent material signs located
on the exterior of a building.
8.
Portable
signs.
9.
Post
signs.
10.
Roof
signs.
11.
Signs
painted on exterior building walls.
12.
Signs,
other than directional signs, constructed of or painted with "Day-Glo",
fluorescent, or similar materials.
13.
Standard outdoor advertising structures and/or billboards, except as permitted under Section 420.150(B)(15).
14.
Vehicular
advertising signs.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4230), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 2008 §§4 —
5, 11-11-1996]
A.
In addition
to the above, the following regulations shall apply in all districts
with respect to signs:
1.
No sign shall be erected on premises to which the sign message does not relate, except as permitted under Section 420.150(B)(15).
2.
Posting
of signs on public or private property shall be prohibited without
written evidence of the property owner's permission.
3.
No sign
heretofore approved and erected shall be repaired, altered, or moved,
nor shall any sign or any part thereof which is blown down, destroyed,
or removed be reerected, reconstructed, rebuilt, or relocated unless
it complies with all the applicable requirements of this Chapter.
4.
Permanent
signs exceeding twenty-four (24) square feet in sign area or weighing
fifty (50) pounds or more or any sign to be erected over a pedestrian
entry shall be erected by a licensed sign erector.
5.
All
signs attached to any building shall be constructed and braced to
withstand wind pressure of not less than thirty (30) pounds per square
foot of exposed surface and shall be securely attached to the building
or wall.
6.
Signs
in residential districts are restricted to not more than three (3)
colors except as otherwise provided herein. Colors shall be restricted
to black, white, and one (1) other color. Unpainted or stained natural
wood, where permitted, shall not be counted as a color for the purpose
of this Section.
7.
Signs
in all other districts are restricted to not more than three (3) colors,
one (1) of which shall be black or white. Unpainted or stained natural
wood, where permitted, shall not be counted as a color for the purpose
of this Section. The color restriction in this Subsection shall not
apply to standard outdoor advertising structures and/or billboards.
8.
Signs
not meeting the restrictions of Subparagraphs (6) and (7) above may
be approved by a majority vote of the Board of Aldermen upon filing
of an appropriate appeal for a variance. The Board of Aldermen may
approve screening or various shades of any of the colors allowed under
Subparagraphs (6) and (7) above, which shall be considered one (1)
color for the purpose of this Section.
9.
If,
in the opinion of the Director, any particular sign becomes hazardous
to pedestrian or vehicular traffic by reason of, but not limited to,
deterioration, damage, obstruction of walkways or fire access or exit
lanes, restricting sight distances for vehicular or pedestrian traffic
or is located so close to travel lanes or parking areas that it is
struck by maneuvering vehicles, then such signs shall be relocated,
removed, or protected by the owner, agent, or person having beneficial
use of the premises or lot within ten (10) days of notification from
the Director that such hazard does exist. If, in the opinion of the
Director, the condition or location of the sign presents imminent
danger to the public, it shall be removed or corrected by the owner,
agent, or person having beneficial use of the premises or lot promptly
upon receipt of written notice from the Director.
10.
All
outdoor signs and supports shall be weather resistant and shall be
maintained in good repair so as to prevent rust, peeling, flaking
or fading. Broken panels, missing letters, flaking or peeling paint
and other visual damage to a sign shall be repaired within forty-five
(45) days of occurrence or within thirty (30) days of notification
from the Director, whichever occurs first.
11.
Every
Permanent sign shall be constructed of rigid weatherproof materials
and provisions shall be made for electric grounding of all metallic
parts.
12.
No
sign shall be erected or maintained so that, by its position, shape,
wording, device, or color, it might interfere with, obstruct the view
of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device.
13.
No
sign regulated by this Chapter shall make use of the words "Stop",
"Look", "Yield", "Danger", or any other word, phrase, symbol or character
in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.
14.
Any
sign which is no longer applicable to the premises on which it is
located shall be removed. Any sign which identifies a business no
longer conducted or a product no longer sold on the premises or lot
shall be removed by the owner, agent, or person having beneficial
use of the premises or lot upon which the sign is erected within thirty
(30) days after the business or product is no longer present.
15.
Non-governmental
flags shall be rectangular dimensions, not to exceed six (6) feet
by ten (10) feet. When a non-governmental flag is flown on the same
pole as a governmental flag, it shall be one (1) foot less in each
dimension than the governmental flag; on adjacent poles both flags
may be of equal size.
16.
A
construction sign in any district may contain a color rendering of
a building that has been approved for the site. The rendering shall
not be restricted as to number of colors or size.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4240), 9-25-1989]
A.
Sign
illumination shall be governed by the following regulations:
1.
General restrictions.
a.
All
illumination shall be oriented so as to prevent undue glare onto adjacent
streets or residential properties.
b.
All
illuminated signs shall be extinguished at the time of business closing,
or 11:00 P.M., whichever is later, except those bordering Highway
270 or Highway 40, provided that this shall not prohibit continuous
illumination of permitted flags, subdivision signs, and directional
signs.
c.
All
electrical illumination devices shall be designed to be weather-resistant
and shatter-proof.
d.
All
electrical sign components shall bear the Underwriters' Laboratory
label; their fabrication and installation must comply with all national
and local Building and Electrical Codes.
e.
Where
practicable, all transformers, conductors and other equipment shall
be concealed behind fascia. Where construction of a building does
not allow the building to be backwired for a sign, exposed raceways
and conduits shall be allowed, provided that such raceways or conduits
shall be constructed or painted to match the building fascia. All
attaching bolts shall be of non-corrosive material.
f.
Threaded
rods or anchor bolts shall be used to mount sign letters which are
spaced out from background panel. Angle clips attached to letter sides
will not be permitted.
g.
Illuminated
signs must be made of rust-resistant material(s).
h.
No
sign maker's labels or other identification will be permitted on the
exposed surface of signs.
i.
Composition of general non-illuminated or externally illuminated
signs.
2.
Illuminated
signs shall be restricted to the following types:
a.
General non-illuminated. The sign itself is neither lighted
internally nor has an external source of light specifically directed
at it. Rather, the sign depends on the general illumination of the
area (e.g., parking lot, traffic or pedestrian areas) for its illumination.
 |
b.
Back light. The letters are raised beyond the sign's background
and the cover-lighting sources which illuminate the background. Letters
are reverse channel and are illuminated through a "halo effect". See
illustration below.
 |
(1)
They must be completely opaque, with no light leaks.
(2)
The face must be welded or permanently affixed to the return.
(3)
The clearance between the building wall and the exterior face of
the sign at its point of greatest protrusion must be no greater than
eight (8) inches. This provision does not apply to signs which are
on exposed raceways pursuant to Section 420.110(1)(e).
(4)
Signs must be painted with satin finish, acrylic polyurethane paint
in a color that complements the facade and design of the building.
(5)
The transformer size is to be that which is recommended by the manufacturer
and it must be UL approved.
(6)
At no point shall the "halo" of light be greater than seventy-five
(75) foot-candles as measured by a one (1) spot meter.
(7)
The neon tube must be placed not less than three (3) inches into
the sign as measured from the rear face.
c.
Internally illuminated letters.
 |
(1)
Signs may be made of metal, wood, or other material that is not translucent,
with letters cut out of the material and lighted from within the sign
itself. Sign boxes and internally lighted signs where the entire face
is illuminated shall not be permitted. Letters must be white in color.
(2)
Signs shall be composed of individual illuminated white letters.
Letters are to be channel type with three-sixteenths (3/16) inch plexiglas
faces lighted behind with neon tubing. Letter returns and backs are
to be aluminum. Minimum return depth is to be five (5) inches for
even dispersion of illumination.
(3)
A company emblem, logo, or trademark may be combined with individually
illuminated white letters to compose a single sign but shall meet
all size, color and other requirements of this Chapter.
d.
External light source. Signs may be lit from an exterior
light source with the following restrictions:
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4250), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 2166 §1, 1-26-1998]
A.
The signs
listed below in this Section are permitted in all residential districts
and the Major Educational District, subject to the restrictions set
forth for each sign category:
1.
Ground signs — directional.
a.
All
sign supports and frames shall be of wood or metal. If of metal, then
such shall be treated to resist corrosion unless they are non-corrodible.
If of wood, such shall be treated to be weather and water resistant.
b.
Signs
shall be double-faced, not to exceed six (6) square feet per sign
face area, in a rectangular shape of either two (2) feet by three
(3) feet or one and one-half (1½) feet by four (4) feet, vertical
by horizontal measurement. Smaller signs in the same proportion shall
be permitted. Said dimensions shall be exclusive of sign trim or supports.
c.
The
maximum height of any sign, including supports, structural trim, frame,
etc., shall be three and one-half (3½) feet above the elevation
of the driveway at the point where said driveway meets the street
lot line.
2.
Holiday or seasonal display. Property owners and tenants
shall be permitted to put up and display decorations and displays
celebrating or denoting religious holidays or events, the seasons
of the year, State and National holidays, and similar occasions; provided
however, that this shall not allow pennants, non-governmental fluttering
signs or similar materials prohibited herein; nor shall such seasonal
displays be in place for a period longer than thirty (30) days. Should
any seasonal display fail to meet these criteria, it shall be considered
a sign under this Section. If any seasonal display conveys a commercial
advertising message or bears the name of the business, it shall be
considered a sign.
3.
Memorial or tablet signs.
a.
All
memorial or tablet signs in existence on the effective date of this
Chapter are exempt from this Section.
b.
Any
new memorial or tablet sign shall not exceed three (3) square feet
unless such signs or tablets are placed by ordinance of, or Commission
of, the United States Government, State of Missouri, St. Louis County,
or the City of Town and Country or agencies thereof.
c.
Any
new memorial or tablet sign shall be made of non-combustible material.
4.
Non-commercial
window signs indicating burglar alarm, Ident-kit, Block Home, or Child
Safety Home.
5.
Official governmental flags.
a.
May
be flown at all times, subject to the guidelines concerning their
use set forth by the United States Flag Code of August, 1976.
b.
May
be illuminated as approved by the Director.
c.
No
more than two (2) flags may be flown from a single flagpole at any
one time.
d.
The
long dimension of the flag shall be no larger than one-fourth (¼)
the length of the pole.
e.
Pole
height shall not exceed thirty-five (35) feet and shall be able to
withstand winds of ninety (90) miles per hour.
f.
Location
of flagpole shall be approved by the Director to ensure that it does
not encroach on lot lines, endanger the safety, or obstruct visibility
of surrounding property owners.
6.
On-site
informational signs which prohibit trespassing, or indicate privacy
of premises, driveways, or roads shall not exceed two (2) square feet
in sign face area nor a height of four (4) feet from the ground.
7.
Political signs. Temporary signs advertising political parties
or candidates for election may be erected or displayed and maintained
provided that:
a.
The
size of any such sign is not in excess of six (6) square feet.
b.
The
signs shall not be erected or displayed earlier than fourteen (14)
days prior to the election to which they pertain.
c.
The
erector of such sign or an authorized agent of the political party
or candidate deposits with the Director the sum of fifty dollars ($50.00)
per each one hundred (100) such signs, or fraction thereof, as a guarantee
that all such signs will be removed within seven (7) days after the
date of the election to which such signs relate. If such signs are
not removed at the end of the seven (7) day period, the City shall
have them removed and keep the full sum deposited to reimburse the
expenses thereby incurred.
d.
Political
signs are not permitted on public property or public rights-of-way
and are only permitted on private property with the property owner's
permission.
e.
Political
signs are restricted to not more than three (3) colors, one (1) of
which shall be black or white. No more than one (1) yard sign per
candidate or per issue shall be allowed on any lot, except that on
corner lots one (1) yard sign per candidate or per issue shall be
allowed on each street frontage.
8.
Private
sale or event signs (with permit).
9.
Real estate signs.
a.
Shall
be non-illuminated.
b.
Not
more than one (1) sign shall be permitted on each lot frontage.
c.
Shall
not be located within ten (10) feet of any adjacent roadway surface.
d.
Shall
not be greater than six (6) square feet per sign face area.
e.
Shall
be removed within ten (10) days of sale closing or lease-initiation.
10.
Signs for subdivisions.
a.
Temporary
subdivision signs are permitted in accordance with Section 410.200(12)
of this Title.
b.
Each
subdivision identification sign and subdivision monument sign must
have a sign permit.
c.
No
subdivision identification sign or subdivision monument sign may be
internally illuminated or located so as to obstruct vision at any
intersection or any vehicular entry or exit within or from any subdivision.
d.
Each
subdivision entry may have one (1) or two (2) pole signs or one (1)
or two (2) monuments, or both a pole sign and a monument.
e.
Subdivision
monument signs shall not exceed seven (7) feet in height and one hundred
twenty-five (125) square feet in size. If two (2) subdivision monuments
are desired for an entry to a subdivision, the size of each entry
monument shall not exceed one hundred twenty-five (125) square feet.
Letters on subdivision signs shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches
in size.
f.
Subdivision
pole signs shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet and shall be mounted
on a pole not exceeding ten (10) feet in height.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4260), 9-25-1989]
A.
The following
signs are permitted in residential and major educational districts
for non-residential uses only and subject to the following restrictions:
2.
A building
shall be restricted to one (1) ground sign (identification) or one
(1) wall sign (identification) per street frontage designating the
name of the building or principal tenant.
3.
One (1) bulletin board shall be allowed on a lot, as defined in Chapter 405 — Zoning Regulations, occupied by a church. Such bulletin board shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet and shall not exceed a height of five (5) feet.
4.
Ground signs, governmental.
a.
Shall
not exceed fifty (50) square feet in aggregate sign face area, nor
exceed a total height of six (6) feet above grade at its base.
b.
Not
more than one (1) sign shall be placed on each road frontage.
c.
Shall
be located only on a site occupied by a governmental agency.
d.
Shall
not be located within ten (10) feet of any adjacent roadway surface,
provided that the Director may allow a sign to be placed closer to
the roadway surface if he/she finds that doing so is in the public
interest and would not create an unsafe condition.
e.
This
does not include directional signs.
5.
Ground signs, non-governmental.
a.
Shall
not be located within forty (40) feet of any adjacent roadway surface,
provided that the Director may allow a sign to be placed closer to
the roadway surface if he/she finds that doing so is in the public
interest and would not create an unsafe condition.
b.
Shall
be located so as not to obstruct vision at an intersection or vehicular
entry or exit from the property.
c.
May
be supported by posts or poles that do not exceed three (3) feet to
the bottom of the sign, plus a planter box, if used, at least six
(6) inches but not more than twenty-four (24) inches in height. In
no event shall posts, poles, planter boxes and sign elevation exceed
a height of eight (8) feet above the average ground elevation around
the sign. If the sign would be below the level of the centerline of
the public road, the sign may be raised to no more than six (6) feet
above that level.
In lieu of the above, the sign may be supported by or be part
of a solid monument. The sign and base are not to exceed eight (8)
feet in height. Monument signs where the monument base and sign exceed
eight (8) feet in height may be permitted with the approval of the
Board of Aldermen where topography problems exist, but in no event
shall the monument and sign exceed ten (10) feet above the average
ground level.
d.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface of the building wall
which they are in front of or relate to, but not to exceed seventy-five
(75) square feet in aggregate sign face area, whichever is less.
e.
Landscaping
or appropriate ground cover shall be placed at the base of and around
any ground sign for a minimum distance of four (4) feet.
f.
Ground
signs may be located within the median of interior roadways but shall
not be located within forty (40) feet of any adjacent roadway surface
of a major street unless the Director finds that doing so is in the
public interest and would not create an unsafe condition. This does
not include directional signs.
g.
An
emblem, logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes
of this Chapter. Letter sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
6.
Wall signs.
a.
Shall
be composed of solid wood or rust-resistant metal.
b.
Shall
be composed either of individually attached letters or letters displayed
in plaque form on a solid background.
c.
Informational
signs shall not exceed ten (10) square feet per sign.
d.
Letters
shall be no taller than twelve (12) inches in height.
e.
One
(1) informational sign shall be allowed on each building frontage.
f.
Wall
signs may be illuminated from an exterior light source.
g.
An
identification sign shall not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface
area on the side of the building to which it is attached, or forty
(40) square feet, whichever is less.
7.
Construction signs. One (1) construction sign with maximum
sign area of forty-eight (48) square feet shall be permitted. Construction
signs shall be erected after issuance of a building permit and shall
be removed upon building occupancy.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4270), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 2588 §1, 6-12-2001; Ord.
No. 2803 §1, 3-25-2003]
A.
The following
signs are permitted in Campus Office, Office or Nursing Home, Assisted
Living or Continuum of Care Facility Districts subject to the following
restrictions:
2.
All
signs located on or related to buildings in the Campus Office and
Office Districts located generally at the intersection of Ballas and
Clayton Roads shall be general non-illuminated only.
3.
Construction signs. One (1) construction sign with a maximum
sign area of sixty-four (64) square feet shall be permitted. Construction
signs shall be erected after issuance of a building permit and shall
be removed upon issuance of occupancy permit.
4.
Directory signs. One (1) directory sign with a maximum sign
area of sixteen (16) square feet shall be permitted.
5.
Flags.
a.
May
be flown at all times, subject to the guidelines concerning their
use set forth by the government which they represent.
b.
May
be illuminated as approved by the Director.
c.
No
more than two (2) flags may be flown from a single flagpole at any
one time.
d.
The
long dimension of the flag shall be no larger than one-fourth (¼)
the length of the pole.
e.
Pole
height shall not exceed forty (40) feet and shall be able to withstand
winds of ninety (90) miles per hour.
f.
No
more than three (3) flagpoles per lot.
g.
Non-governmental
flags to be permitted as defined. See Section 420.100(15).
h.
Location
of flagpole shall be approved by the Director to ensure that it does
not encroach on lot lines, endanger the safety, or obstruct visibility
of surrounding property owners. Where feasible its location shall
be indicated on the site plan.
6.
Ground signs and monument signs — identification.
a.
Shall
not be located within forty (40) feet of any adjacent roadway surface,
provided that the Director may allow a sign to be placed within forty
(40) feet of a roadway surface but in no event closer than twenty
(20) feet of a roadway surface if he/she finds that doing so is in
the public interest and would not create an unsafe condition.
b.
Shall
be located so as not to obstruct vision at an intersection or vehicular
entry or exit from the property.
c.
May
be supported by posts or poles that do not exceed three (3) feet to
the bottom of the sign, plus a planter box, if used, at least six
(6) inches but not more than twenty-four (24) inches in height. In
no event shall posts, poles, planter boxes and sign elevation exceed
a height of eight (8) feet above the average ground elevation around
the sign. If the sign would be below the level of the centerline of
the public road, the sign may be raised to no more than six (6) feet
above that level.
In lieu of the above, the sign may be supported by or be part
of a solid monument. The sign and base are not to exceed eight (8)
feet in height. Monument signs where the monument base and sign exceed
eight (8) feet in height may be permitted with the approval of the
Board of Aldermen when topography problems exist, but in no event
shall the monument and sign exceed ten (10) feet above the average
ground level.
d.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface of the building wall
which they are in front of or relate to, but not to exceed seventy-five
(75) square feet, whichever is less.
e.
An
emblem, logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes
of this Chapter. Letter sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
7.
Ground signs — informational.
a.
Shall
not be located within ten (10) feet of any adjacent roadway surface,
provided that the Director may allow a sign to be placed closer to
the roadway surface if he/she finds that doing so is in the public
interest and would not create an unsafe condition.
b.
The
size of said sign shall not be more than six (6) square feet per sign
face area, but may be increased up to a maximum of ten (10) square
feet by written authority of the Director after the Director's review
of the public necessity and/or safety purpose of said sign.
c.
Shall
be non-illuminated unless, in the opinion of the said Director, safety
would be enhanced by allowing either the internal or indirect illumination
thereof. Said Director may grant a permanent or temporary permit to
illuminate any such sign and may revoke a temporary illumination permit
upon fifteen (15) days' notice.
d.
Shall
be constructed of permanent, weather-proof materials except that temporary
signs may be permitted by said Director for a period up to sixty (60)
days, provided that the Director finds public need or safety purposes
will be served by said temporary signs.
e.
Except
as otherwise permitted in writing by said Director, on-site informational
signs shall not exceed a height of three (3) feet from the ground
level in any area within ten (10) feet of any adjacent roadway surface
or within ten (10) feet of any lot line nor shall such signs elsewhere
on the property exceed a height of four (4) feet from the adjacent
ground level.
f.
Shall
not be hazardous to vehicles. If damaged or defaced, said signs shall
be immediately removed and either restored or replaced.
g.
An
emblem, logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes
of this Chapter. Letter sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
8.
A single
office or nursing home, assisted living or continuum of care facility
building may have a wall identification sign or one (1) ground identification
sign for each street upon which the building fronts. When an office
building has multiple tenants, the ground identification sign may
identify the building and contain the name of at least one (1) tenant.
The ground identification sign may also contain the names of additional
tenants provided that those tenants identified on the sign occupy
the equivalent of at least one (1) floor of the building.
9.
Office subdivision or office center. An office subdivision
containing two (2) or more office buildings shall be permitted a ground
or monument sign, not to exceed seventy-five (75) square feet in sign
face area, at each entry from a public street into the office subdivision.
10.
Real estate signs. Real estate signs advertising premises
for sale or available space for lease shall be permitted, with permit,
subject to the following restrictions:
a.
One
(1) real estate sign per building shall be permitted for each public
roadway frontage.
b.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface area of the side of the
building to which it relates, or forty-eight (48) square feet, whichever
is less.
c.
All
supports of freestanding signs shall be painted and maintained.
d.
Shall
be no closer than twenty (20) feet, for safety, from any public roadway.
e.
Shall
be removed no later than ten (10) days after sale closing or lease
commencement.
f.
Shall
not be internally or directly illuminated.
g.
An
emblem, logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes
of this Chapter. Letter sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
11.
Wall signs — identification.
a.
Shall be either internally illuminated, back light type, non-illuminated, or externally illuminated as specified in Section 420.110.
b.
Shall
not project perpendicularly more than eight (8) inches beyond the
plane of the wall to which it is attached, except that this distance
may be modified by conditions of a conditional use permit where an
exposed raceway is involved.
c.
Letter
sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches in height, except that
letters on a sign located in the Planned Office Park (POP) Zoning
District on a minimum three (3) story building, identifying a tenant
occupying at least forty thousand (40,000) square feet or two (2)
floors of the building, shall not exceed thirty (30) inches in height,
provided the sign faces an interstate highway.
d.
A
company emblem, logo or trademark may be combined with letters to
compose a sign, but shall meet all size, color, and other requirements
of this Section.
e.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface area of the side of the
building or other structure to which it is attached, or sixty (60)
square feet, whichever is less. Where more than one (1) wall of a
building or structure is used for signing, then the limitation shall
be five percent (5%) for each side, or forty (40) square feet, whichever
is less.
f.
Letters
shall not exceed the height of the roof of the building, nor overlap
either the top or bottom edge of the building fascia or mansard roof
area and must be a minimum of six (6) inches from either of these
edges.
g.
Internally
illuminated signs shall be composed of individual illuminated white
letters. Sign boxes and cabinets where the sign background is illuminated
shall not be permitted.
h.
Non-illuminated
signs and externally illuminated signs shall be composed either of
individually attached letters or letters displayed in plaque form
on a solid background.
12.
Wall signs — address numerals. Non-illuminated address
numerals not to exceed thirty-six (36) inches in height may be erected
on no more than two (2) building walls of any building at least three
(3) stories high in the Planned Office Park (POP) Zoning District.
13.
Telephone switching stations. Exterior signs identifying
or advertising a telephone switching station occupying interior floor
space of office buildings in the Campus Office, Office or Planned
Office Park Districts shall not be permitted.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4280), 9-25-1989; Ord. No. 2008 §§6 —
7, 11-11-1996]
A.
The following
signs in Commercial Districts shall be subject to the following general
restrictions:
1.
On multi-tenant
commercial buildings, a unified sign plan shall be presented to the
Board of Aldermen for approval, in which case as many signs of the
same type shall be permitted on the same site frontage of a building
facing a public street as there are separate main entrances for the
businesses therein.
a.
Signs
shall be of uniform height, proportions, background color(s), materials,
and location in relationship to the business and generally uniform
thickness, appearance and illumination as approved in the plan.
b.
Each
business therein shall be allowed one (1) business identification
sign facing the adjoining street or parking area. If a business is
located on a corner space, with one (1) exterior frontage entrance
in each direction, then one (1) business identification sign per side
will be permitted, not to exceed two (2) signs.
c.
Businesses
located in a shopping mall where a majority of businesses face interior
courts or walkways, shall be permitted, in addition to Subparagraph
(b) above, one (1) business identification sign on a store front which
faces the interior court or walkway inside the mall. If a business
has a corner space, with more than one (1) interior frontage entrance,
or if a building occupies a corner space or other space with more
than one (1) interior entrance not on the same building frontage,
then one (1) sign shall be permitted on each interior court or walkway,
plus one (1) business identification sign on the exterior of the building
in the closest possible proximity to the business entrance. The total
allowable number of business identification signs for such an interior
corner space shall be three (3).
d.
If
approved as part of a unified sign plan for a single commercial development,
in addition to the business identification signs authorized above,
those businesses with entrances facing a pedestrian walkway under
a roof, may hang one (1) business identification sign from the roof
over the pedestrian walkway, provided each sign is uniform in size,
color and letters, non-illuminated, is no larger than eight (8) inches
by twenty (20) inches, is perpendicular to the front building wall
and business entrance, and provides for at least seven (7) feet of
clearance.
2.
For
any new multi-tenant commercial building or for any existing multi-tenant
commercial building which is more than fifty percent (50%) vacant
and which does not have an approved uniform sign plan, the building
owner shall submit with, or prior to the first (1st) (or next) sign
permit application, a unified sign plan for said building for approval
by the Board of Aldermen. No sign permit shall be issued except in
conformity with the plan approved by the Board of Aldermen.
3.
An aggregate
sign display area not to exceed twelve percent (12%) of the total
surface area (including windows) of the building frontage of a business
establishment shall be permitted, subject to other limitations contained
herein. Where a building has more than one (1) commercial frontage,
the aggregate sign display area shall be calculated separately for
signs related to each separate commercial frontage. The following
types of signs shall not be included in the aggregate square footage
limitation contained in the Subsection.
4.
All
permitted signs are subject to the general provisions for multi-tenant
buildings.
5.
A single
commercial establishment may have either one (1) wall sign (identification)
or one (1) ground sign (identification) per road frontage, but not
both.
6.
Signage
on office buildings in Commercial Districts shall conform to requirements
for office buildings in Office and Campus Office Districts.
7.
An emblem,
logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes of this
Chapter. In no event shall letters on any sign in a Commercial District
exceed twenty-four (24) inches in height. Where a smaller maximum
letter size is specified in this Section, the smaller letter size
governs.
B.
The following
signs are permitted in Commercial Districts:
2.
All
signs located on or related to buildings in the Commercial District
located generally at the southeast corner of the intersection of Clayton
and Mason Roads shall be generally non-illuminated.
3.
Awning signs.
a.
Awning
signs shall be painted or otherwise permanently affixed to the awning,
limited to the name of the firm or the logo of the firm (but not both),
and no more than two (2) colors, including the color of the awning
material, shall be permitted. The size of the letters or one (1) logo
shall not exceed twelve (12) inches in height. Such signs shall be
the single frontage identification of the business or firm.
b.
Shall
not project above the parapet wall or the roof line of the building
to which the awning is attached.
c.
Shall
maintain a clearance of at least seven (7) feet six (6) inches above
the ground or pavement where vehicular or pedestrian movement is possible
under said sign.
4.
Flags.
a.
May
be flown at all times, subject to the guidelines concerning their
use set forth by the government which they represent.
b.
May
be illuminated as approved by the Director.
c.
No
more than two (2) flags may be flown from a single flagpole at any
one time.
d.
The
long dimension of the flag shall be no larger than one-fourth (¼)
the length of the pole. Maximum size shall be six (6) feet by ten
(10) feet.
e.
Pole
height shall not exceed forty (40) feet and shall be able to withstand
winds of ninety (90) miles per hour.
f.
No
more than three (3) flagpoles per site.
g.
Non-governmental
flags to be permitted as defined. See Section 420.100(15).
h.
Location
of flagpole shall be approved by the Director to ensure that it does
not encroach on lot lines, endanger the safety, or obstruct visibility
of surrounding property owners. Where feasible its location shall
be indicated on the site plan.
5.
Gasoline service station signs.
a.
No
separate post signs, including name identification poles, shall be
permitted.
b.
One
(1) wall business identification sign per roadway frontage, with a
maximum letter size of twelve (12) inches, or one (1) ground business
identification sign, shall be permitted. The wall business identification
sign(s) shall be affixed either flat against the main structure wall
or along the longer vertical edge of the roofed structure covering
the fuel pumps. The business identification sign may be lighted internally
or externally. The ground sign shall be a maximum of forty-two (42)
inches above ground level, and maximum size of twelve (12) square
feet.
c.
One
(1) gasoline price sign per street frontage may be displayed in the
window of the primary gasoline service station building only. Each
sign shall be no larger than six (6) square feet.
d.
The
shorter vertical edge of the roofed structure covering the fuel pumps
shall be used only for the following signage: "full-service", "self-service,
"no smoking", or "stop engine".
e.
A
company logo may be displayed directly on each fuel pump if an integral
part of the design of the pump. No product advertising shall be permitted
to be attached to the fuel pump.
f.
Each
fuel pump may display a sign no larger than one (1) square foot indicating
the fuel available from the pump, e.g. "lead-free", "regular", "diesel",
"high octane", etc.
g.
Directional
signs indicating "Entrance" and "Exit" shall be permitted. No product
advertising or company logo shall be permitted on such directional
signs. Directional signs may be illuminated if required for safety
and if approved by the Director.
h.
One
(1) informational sign, not to exceed four (4) square feet in sign
face area, shall be permitted for the purpose of identifying the air
hose and supply, and shall be affixed flat against the building wall
in the vicinity of the air hose.
i.
A
sign required to identify official State inspection stations may be
affixed flat against the wall of the primary gasoline service station
building only, adjacent to the main entrance.
j.
A
sign indicating hours of business shall be permitted only on the main
entrance door of the primary building, and shall be no larger than
one (1) square foot.
k.
No
advertising signs shall be permitted on movable or rolling tire racks.
l.
A
sign no larger than one (1) square foot, giving credit and charge
card information, shall be permitted at the main entrance to the building.
m.
Temporary
window signs are permitted subject to the restrictions in Subsection
(7)(m) of this Section.
n.
The
following shall not be permitted: Portable signs, advertising signs
on the tops of pumps, "truck-load" and other such sale signs, banners
advertising services or "open for business".
o.
No
signs other than those specifically authorized above shall be permitted,
whether illuminated or non-illuminated, whether affixed to the outside
or inside of windows, doors, roofs, etc.
6.
Ground signs — business identification.
a.
Where
a single building has multiple tenants or multiple uses, ground signage
shall be restricted to one (1) commercial center ground sign designating
the name of the business development or center or name of the building.
b.
Shall
not be located within forty (40) feet of any adjacent roadway surface,
provided that the Director may allow a sign to be placed within twenty
(20) feet of a roadway surface if he/she finds that doing so is in
the public interest and would not create an unsafe condition.
c.
Shall
be located so as not to obstruct vision at an intersection or vehicular
entry or exit from the property.
d.
May
be supported by posts or poles that do not exceed three (3) feet plus
a planter box, if used, at least six (6) inches but not more than
twenty-four (24) inches in height. In no event shall posts, poles,
planter boxes and sign elevation exceed a height of six (6) feet above
the average ground elevation around the sign. If the sign would be
below the level of the centerline of the nearest major or minor road,
the sign may be raised to no more than six (6) feet above that level.
In lieu of the above, the sign may be supported by or be a part
of a solid monument. The sign and base are not to exceed six (6) feet
in height. Monument signs where the monument base and sign exceed
six (6) feet in height may be permitted with the approval of the Board
of Aldermen where topographical problems exist, but in no event shall
monument and sign exceed eight (8) feet above average ground level.
e.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface of the building wall
of which they are in front or relate to, but not to exceed seventy-five
(75) square feet, whichever is less.
f.
Letter
sizes shall not exceed twenty-four (24) inches. Illuminated letters
shall be white. Internal signs are prohibited.
7.
Hanging signs.
a.
Shall
not project perpendicularly more than thirty (30) inches beyond the
plane of the wall to which it is attached. The maximum sign shall
be thirty (30) inches by eighteen (18) inches.
b.
Shall
maintain a clearance of at least seven (7) feet six (6) inches above
the ground or pavement where vehicular or pedestrian movement is possible
under said sign.
9.
Marquee signs.
10.
Movie theater signs.
a.
One
(1) marquee sign shall be permitted per theater, applied flat to the
building.
b.
One
(1) shadowbox, know as a show case, forty (40) inch by sixty (60)
inch frame, shall be permitted per screen, permanently affixed to
the building.
c.
No outdoor advertising posters or standard outdoor advertising structures and/or billboards shall be permitted, except as allowed under Subsection (B)(15) of this Section.
d.
Advertising
posters, billboards, etc., shall be permitted in the lobby of the
theater.
e.
Pricing
shall be posted at box office only.
f.
Theater
name shall be subject to normal provisions for such commercial signs
and is separate from marquee signs.
g.
Customary
signage announcing the title, rating, and show times of current attractions
may be permitted when a sign plan for such purpose has been approved
by the Board of Aldermen.
11.
Permanent window signs.
a.
Shall
be painted, metal-leafed, or in some other manner permanently applied
to either side of an exterior window or door.
b.
Shall
be calculated with the total square footage of signs permitted per
building side but a temporary window sign shall not be so counted.
c.
May
identify hours of business, name and address of business.
d.
Shall
cover an area no greater than three (3) feet by two (2) feet on the
window display surface on any one (1) frontage.
12.
Real estate signs. Real estate signs advertising premises
for sale or available space for lease shall be permitted, with permit,
subject to the following restrictions:
a.
One
(1) real estate sign per building shall be permitted for each public
roadway frontage.
b.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface area of the side of the
building to which it relates, or forty-eight (48) square feet, whichever
is less.
c.
All
supports of freestanding signs shall be painted and maintained.
d.
Shall
be no closer than ten (10) feet from any public roadway.
e.
Shall
be removed no later than ten (10) days after sale closing or lease
commencement.
f.
Shall
not be internally or directly illuminated.
13.
Temporary window signs.
a.
Shall
not cover more than a total of twenty percent (20%) of the combined
area of the window and glass door to which they are applied. All of
the glass windows and doors on a side of a building may be calculated
as a single window/door area provided that such are separated by supports
or other dividers no more than twelve (12) inches wide.
b.
All
signs in one (1) window shall be deemed to be one (1) sign for the
purpose of this paragraph. If all windows and glass doors in the side
of a building are being counted as a single surface under Subsection
(7)(m)(1) above, then all signs thereon shall likewise be counted.
c.
Temporary
window signs shall be maintained in good repair and shall be displayed
for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days and shall have the most
recent date of installation clearly shown on the sign in two (2) inch
high letters in a contrasting color placed in the bottom right-hand
corner on the front of said sign. The same sign shall not be placed
in a window for a period of four (4) months after removal. A new date
of installation shall be shown in that event.
d.
Under
no circumstances shall such signs be affixed to the exterior of a
window.
14.
Wall signs.
a.
Shall be either internally illuminated, back light type, non-illuminated, or externally illuminated as specified in Section 420.110.
b.
Shall
not project perpendicularly more than eight (8) inches beyond the
plane of the wall to which it is attached, except this distance may
be modified by conditions of a conditional use permit where an exposed
raceway is involved.
c.
|
Surface Area of Store/Office Frontage
|
Maximum Sign Square Footage
| |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Less than 960 square feet
|
40
|
|
960 — 2,000 square feet
|
50
| |
|
Over 2,000 square feet
|
60
|
d.
A
company emblem, logo, or trademark may be combined with letters to
compose a sign, but shall meet all size, color, and other requirements
of this Section.
e.
Internally
illuminated signs shall be composed of individual illuminated white
letters. Sign boxes and cabinets where the sign background is illuminated
shall not be permitted.
f.
The
maximum square footage of a sign shall not exceed sixty (60) square
feet or the size set forth in paragraph (3) above, whichever is less.
g.
Letters
may not overlap either the top or bottom edge of the building fascia
or mansard roof area and must be a minimum of six (6) inches from
either of these edges. Signs shall not exceed the height of the building.
15.
Standard outdoor advertising structures and/or billboards.
a.
No
permit to allow a sign to be newly erected shall be issued without
a permit issued by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission.
Standard outdoor advertising structures and/or billboards may be permitted
in the City provided that such signs:
b.
Lighting.
(1)
Lighting cannot exceed a twenty (20) foot-candle average.
(2)
No revolving or rotating beam or beacon of light that simulates an
emergency light or device shall be permitted as part of any sign.
No flashing, intermittent, or moving light or lights will be permitted
except scoreboards and other illuminated signs designating public
service information such as time, date, or temperature, or similar
information, will be allowed.
(3)
External lighting, such as floodlights, thin line and gooseneck reflectors
are permitted, provided the light source is directed upon the face
of the signs and is effectively shielded so as to prevent beams or
rays of light from being directed into any portion of the main traveled
way of the interstate or Federal-aid primary highway and the lights
are not of such intensity so as to cause glare, impair the vision
of the driver of a motor vehicle, or otherwise interfere with a drivers'
operation of a motor vehicle; provided the light source is effectively
shielded so as to prevent beams or rays of light from shining on any
lot which is used or zoned residential.
(4)
No sign shall be so illuminated that it interferes with the effectiveness
of or obscures any official traffic sign, device or signal.
c.
Size of signs.
(1)
The maximum area per face for any one (1) sign located within six
hundred sixty (660) feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way of:
(a)
An interstate highway (as defined by the Missouri Highway and
Transportation Department) shall be two hundred eighty-eight (288)
square feet, or
(b)
A primary highway (as defined by the Missouri Highway and Transportation
Department) shall be one hundred twenty-eight (128) square feet,
|
|
inclusive of border and trim but excluding the base or apron,
supports, and other structural members, with a maximum vertical dimension
of thirty (30) feet and a maximum horizontal dimension of sixty (60)
feet.
|
(2)
The maximum height of any sign shall not exceed thirty-five (35)
feet from the highest point on the sign structure to the grade of
the highway from which the sign is intended to be read nor exceed
fifty (50) feet above the surrounding grade where the sign is installed.
d.
Spacing of signs.
(1)
No sign structure shall be erected within one thousand (1,000) feet
of an existing sign on either side of the adjacent interstate or primary
highway.
(2)
The spacing between structure provisions of paragraph (d)(1) of this
Subsection do not apply to signs which are separated by buildings,
natural surroundings, or other obstructions in such manner that only
one (1) sign facing located within such distance is visible at any
one time. Directional or other official signs or those advertising
the sale or lease of the property on which they are located, or those
which advertise activities on the property on which they are located,
including products sold, shall not be counted, nor shall measurements
be made from them for the purpose of compliance with spacing provisions.
(3)
The measurements in this Subsection shall be the minimum distances
between outdoor advertising sign structures measured along the nearest
edge of the pavement between points directly opposite the signs along
each side of the highway.
e.
Setbacks and location. No sign shall be located within:
(1)
Ninety (90) feet of any property line or roofed structure;
(2)
Ninety (90) feet of any right-of-way;
(3)
One thousand (1,000) feet from any lot which is used or zoned as
residential or for any public use, including but not limited to parks,
schools, churches, libraries, hospitals, historic districts, landmarks,
or any area on the National Register of Historic Places;
(4)
Two hundred fifty (250) feet of any on-premises sign located on a
building or other non-sign structure;
(5)
One thousand (1,000) feet of any other free-standing on-premises
sign;
(6)
One thousand (1,000) feet of an interchange, intersection at grade,
or safety rest area. Such distances shall be measured from beginning
or ending of the pavement widening at the exit from or entrance to
the main traveled way.
f.
Miscellaneous regulations.
(1)
Only one (1) sign shall be allowed to face in one (1) direction along
an interstate or primary highway; while signs may be placed back-to-back
on the same sign structure so that two (2) signs are facing in opposite
directions, signs of V-type construction are prohibited as is sign
stacking.
(2)
No sign shall be located in such manner as to obstruct or otherwise
physically interfere with the effectiveness of any official traffic
sign, signal, or device or obstruct or physically interfere with a
motor vehicle operator's view of approaching, merging or intersecting
traffic.
(3)
No sign shall be located on or attached to the roof of a building
or any other non-sign structure.
[Ord. No. 1327 §3(4290), 9-25-1989]
A.
The following
signs are permitted in the Hospital District subject to the following
restrictions:
2.
Construction signs. One (1) construction sign with a maximum
sign area of sixty-four (64) square feet shall be permitted. Construction
signs shall be erected after issuance of a building permit and shall
be removed upon issuance of an occupancy permit.
3.
Directory signs. One (1) directory sign with a maximum sign
area of sixteen (16) square feet shall be permitted for each building
in the Hospital District.
4.
Flags.
a.
May
be flown at all times, subject to the guidelines concerning their
use set forth by the government which they represent.
b.
May
be illuminated as approved by the Director.
c.
No
more than two (2) flags may be flown from a single flagpole at any
one time.
d.
The
long dimension of the flag shall be no larger than one-fourth (¼)
the length of the pole.
e.
Pole
height shall not exceed forty (40) feet and shall be able to withstand
winds of ninety (90) miles per hour.
f.
No
more than three (3) flagpoles per lot.
g.
Non-governmental
flags to be permitted as defined. See Section 420.100(15).
h.
Location
of flagpole shall be approved by the Director to ensure that it does
not encroach on lot lines, endanger the safety, or obstruct visibility
of surrounding property owners. Where feasible its location shall
be indicated on the site plan.
5.
Ground signs and monument signs — identification.
a.
Where
a building has multiple uses or multiple tenants, ground signage shall
be restricted to one (1) ground identification sign per commercial
street frontage designating the name of the building or principal
tenant.
b.
Shall
not be located within forty (40) feet of any adjacent roadway surface,
provided that the Director may allow a sign to be placed within forty
(40) feet of a roadway surface but in no event closer than twenty
(20) feet of a roadway surface if he/she finds that doing so is in
the public interest and would not create an unsafe condition.
c.
Shall
be located so as not to obstruct vision at an intersection or vehicular
entry or exit from the property.
d.
May
be supported by posts or poles that do not exceed three (3) feet to
the bottom of the sign, plus a planter box, if used, at least six
(6) inches but not more than twenty-four (24) inches in height. In
no event shall posts, poles, planter boxes and sign elevation exceed
a height of eight (8) feet above the average ground elevation around
the sign. If the sign would be below the level of the centerline of
the public road, the sign may be raised to no more than six (6) feet
above that level.
In lieu of the above, the sign may be supported by or be part
of a solid monument. The sign and base are not to exceed eight (8)
feet in height. Monument signs where the monument base and sign exceed
eight (8) feet in height may be permitted with the approval of the
Planning Commission when topography problems exist, but in no event
shall the monument and sign exceed ten (10) feet above the average
ground level, whichever is less.
e.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface of the building wall
which they are in front of or relate to, but not to exceed seventy-five
(75) square feet, whichever is less.
f.
An
emblem, logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes
of this Chapter. Letter sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
6.
Ground signs — informational.
a.
Shall
not be located within ten (10) feet of any adjacent roadway surface,
provided that the Director may allow a sign to be placed closer to
the roadway surface if he/she finds that doing so is in the public
interest and would not create an unsafe condition.
b.
The
size of said sign shall not be more than six (6) square feet per sign
face area, but may be increased up to a maximum of ten (10) square
feet by written authority of the Director after the Director's review
of the public necessity and/or safety purpose of said sign.
c.
Shall
be non-illuminated unless, in the opinion of the said Director, safety
would be enhanced by allowing either the internal or indirect illumination
thereof. Said Director may grant a permanent or temporary permit to
illuminate any such sign and may revoke a temporary illumination permit
upon fifteen (15) days' notice.
d.
Shall
be constructed of permanent, weatherproof materials except that temporary
signs may be permitted by said Director for a period up to sixty (60)
days, provided that the Director finds public need or safety purposes
will be served by said temporary signs.
e.
Except
as otherwise permitted in writing by said Director, on-site informational
signs shall not exceed a height of three (3) feet from the ground
level in any area within ten (10) feet of any adjacent roadway surface
or within ten (10) feet of any lot line nor shall such signs elsewhere
on the property exceed a height of four (4) feet from the adjacent
ground level.
f.
Shall
not be hazardous to vehicles. If damaged or defaced, said signs shall
be immediately removed and either restored or replaced.
g.
An
emblem, logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes
of this Chapter. Letter sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
7.
A single
office building may have either one (1) wall identification sign or
one (1) ground identification sign per road frontage, but not both.
8.
Where
a hospital development contains two (2) or more buildings, the development
shall be permitted a ground or monument sign, not to exceed seventy-five
(75) square feet in sign face area, at each entry from a public street
into the hospital development.
9.
Real estate signs. Real estate signs advertising premises
for sale or available space for lease shall be permitted, with permit,
subject to the following restrictions:
a.
One
(1) real estate sign per building shall be permitted for each public
roadway frontage.
b.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface area of the side of the
building to which it relates, or forty-eight (48) square feet, whichever
is less.
c.
All
supports of freestanding signs shall be painted and maintained.
d.
Shall
be no closer than twenty (20) feet, for safety, from any public roadway.
e.
Shall
be removed no later than ten (10) days after sale closing or lease
commencement.
f.
Shall
not be internally or directly illuminated.
g.
An
emblem, logo or trademark shall be considered a letter for purposes
of this Chapter. Letter sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
10.
Wall signs — identification.
a.
Shall be either internally illuminated, back light type, non-illuminated, or externally illuminated as specified in Section 420.110.
b.
Shall
not project perpendicularly more than eight (8) inches beyond the
plane of the wall to which it is attached, except that this distance
may be modified by conditions of a conditional use permit where an
exposed raceway is involved.
c.
Letter
sizes shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches in height.
Exception: In the discretion of the Board of Aldermen, upon
application, letters on wall signs facing an interstate highway may
exceed eighteen (18) inches in height.
d.
A
company emblem, logo or trademark may be combined with letters to
compose a sign, but shall meet all size, color, and other requirements
of this Section.
e.
Shall
not exceed eight percent (8%) of the surface area of the side of the
building or other structure to which it is attached, or sixty (60)
square feet, whichever is less. Where more than one (1) wall of a
building or structure is used for signing, then the limitation shall
be five percent (5%) for each side, or forty (40) square feet.
11.
Exception. In the discretion of the Board of Aldermen, upon
application, wall signs facing an interstate highway may exceed eight
percent (8%) of the surface area of the side of the building or other
structure to which it is attached, or sixty (60) square feet.
a.
Letters
shall not exceed the height of the roof of the building, or overlap
either the top or bottom edge of the building fascia or mansard roof
area and must be a minimum of six (6) inches from either of these
edges.
b.
Internally
illuminated signs shall be composed of individual illuminated white
letters. Sign boxes and cabinets where the sign background is illuminated
shall not be permitted.
c.
Non-illuminated
signs and externally illuminated signs shall be composed either of
individually attached letters or letters displayed in plaque form
on a solid background.