[HISTORY: Adopted by the Common Council of the City of Gillett 5-5-2011. Amendments noted where applicable.]
This chapter creates the legal framework for sign regulations
that are intended to facilitate agreeable communication between people.
It recognizes the need for well-maintained and attractive appearances
and protection of safety and welfare within the community, balanced
with the need for business identification, advertising, and communication.
This section intends to encourage the design, construction, installation,
maintenance of signs that are safe and compatible with their surroundings
pursuant to the objectives of proper zoning amenities.
To regulate the size, type, construction standards, maintenance
and placement of signs situated within the boundaries of the City
of Gillett and to promote the public health, safety, welfare, and
comfort of the general public. The sign regulations accomplish their
purposes by:
A.
Reducing distractions and obstructions from signs that would adversely
affect traffic safety and alleviating hazards caused by signs projecting
over or encroaching upon the public right-of-way.
B.
Discouraging excessive visual competition in signage and ensuring
that signs aid orientation and adequately identify uses and activities
to the public.
C.
Preserving or enhancing the natural beauty and unique physical characteristics
of the City of Gillett by requiring new and replacement signage which
is harmonious with the buildings to which signs relate, surrounding
neighborhood aesthetics, and other signs in the area and is complementary
to the City's suburban architectural character and unobtrusive commercial
developments.
D.
Promoting a healthy and properly designed business environment.
E.
Protecting property values within the City.
F.
Ensuring safe construction of signage.
Except as otherwise noted herein, the regulations of this chapter
shall govern all outdoor signs, advertising structures, or devices
with respect to location, safety, size, construction standards, erection,
attachment, support, lighting, anchorage, maintenance, appearance,
and aesthetics.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
Any sign which contains information which is no longer correct,
fails to advertise a bona fide business, lessor, lessee, owner, product,
service or activity, conduct or product available is no longer provided.
The Planning Committee for the City of Gillett, or their
designee, has the responsibility for administering this chapter.
Any sign that uses movement or rotation of any part of the
sign or change of lighting or lights, either natural or artificial,
to depict action or motion, or to create a special effect or scene,
or to convey a message. It does not include a changeable copy sign
or a sign which contains a "time and temperature" portion as its only
changeable part.
Automated teller machine.
A roof-like shelter of canvas or other material extending
from the wall of the building and extending over a doorway, from the
top of the window, over a deck, etc., in order to provide protection
from the sun and advertising space. Awnings may be retracted, folded,
or collapsed against the face of a supporting structure. For the purpose
of this chapter, an "awning" is an awning sign.
A sign intended to be hung either with or without a frame
and that possesses characters, letters, illustrations, or ornamentations
applied to paper, plastic, or fabric of any kind, but shall not be
interpreted to include a canopy sign. National flags, state or municipal
flags, or the official flag of any institution or business, shall
not be considered a banner.
The edge of the established ultimate street right-of-way
or property line.
A stationary or revolving light that flashes or projects
illumination, single color or multicolored, in any manner that is
intended to attract or divert attention.
A structure for the display of off-premises advertising.
Any sign indicating the name of a building, date, and incidental
information about construction, or any such information, which sign
is cut into a masonry surface or is mounted on other permanent material.
Any sign erected by a charitable, educational, or religious
institution or a public body, upon the same property as said institution,
for purposes of announcing events which are held on the premises,
and which contains no commercial message.
Any sign that is attached to or part of an awning, canopy,
or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover over a door,
entrance, window, or outdoor service area. A marquee is not a canopy.
A sign or portion thereof, with characters, letters, or illustrations
that can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the
surface of the sign. A sign on which the message changes more than
eight times a day or more than once an hour shall be considered an
animated sign and not a changeable copy sign for the purpose of this
chapter. A sign on which the only copy that changes is an electronic
or mechanical indication of time or temperature shall be considered
a "time and temperature" portion of a sign and not a changeable copy
sign for purposes of this chapter.
Any sign wording, logo, or other representation that, directly
or indirectly, names, advertises, or calls attention to a business,
product, service, sale or sales event, or other commercial activity.
This definition shall not be interpreted to exclude signs erected
by any nonprofit group or institution otherwise possessing all the
characteristics of commercial advertising solely because the group
does not seek commercial profit.
A sign identifying individuals or companies involved in design,
construction, wrecking, financing, or development of a building/lot
upon which the sign sits and/or identifying the future use of the
building/lot upon which the sign sits. Such signs shall be limited
to new home and building construction or home and building remodeling
and repairs.
A sign which is faded, tattered, torn, broken, out of alignment,
not fully functional or a blighting influence.
A sign limited to providing directions to assist in the flow
of pedestrian or vehicular traffic. Generally, these signs are located
on a specific parcel and include messages such as "no parking," "entrance,"
"exit only," "loading only," "telephone," "ATM," and other similar
messages. Directional signs shall be visible from the lot on which
they are located, shall not exceed three feet in height above the
natural grade, and shall not exceed three square feet in size.
See "multiple-tenant identification sign."
The surface made available on the sign, either for the direct
mounting of letters and decorations, or for the mounting of facing
material intended to carry the entire advertising message.
A sign with copy on two parallel faces that are back to back,
facing in opposite directions.
A device used to hold mail, packages or items for charitable
contributions.
An election or campaign sign is a sign which promotes a candidate
for public office, a particular position on a referendum, or other
matter on an election ballot.
A sign, display, or device that changes message copy on the
sign by means of light-emitting diodes (LED), fiber optics, light
bulbs, liquid crystal display, or other illumination devices within
the display area.
To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend, or affix
any sign, including painting of a wall sign.
A sign which does not apply to the sign requirements of this
chapter.
The front or main face of the building.
The surface of the sign or billboard upon, against, or through
which the message of the sign or billboard is displayed.
Signs which shall include, but are not limited to, strings
of ribbons, tinsel, small flags, pennants or pinwheels hanging between
two points.
Any fabric, banner, or bunting containing distinctive colors,
patterns, or symbols, used as a symbol of a government, political
subdivision, or other entity.
A sign whose illumination is not kept constant in intensity
at all times when in use and/or which exhibits changes in light, color,
direction, animation, and word/text changes. Such signs are prohibited.
Illuminated signs that indicate the date, time, and temperature will
not be considered flashing signs.
A sign that is attached to, erected on, or supported by some
structure (such as a pole, mast, frame, or other structure) that itself
is not an integral part of or attached to a building or other structure
whose principal function is something other than the support of a
sign.
A private sale of personal property, including estate sales,
yard sales, or rummage sales used to dispose of personal household
possessions; not for the use of any commercial venture.
A type of wall sign mounted on the vertical fascia of a canopy
serving as a fuel-dispensing facility for a gas station or a convenience
store with fuel pumps.
Any sign erected by the City of Gillett or any other governmental
entity in the exercise of official government business and authority.
A sign on which the bottom edge of the display area has open
space between that edge and the natural grade. The sign is freestanding
and not attached to any structure, not to exceed eight feet in height
from natural grade.
Illumination of a sign with an exterior light source.
Illumination of a sign in which the source of light is contained
within the sign itself.
A fractional part of a subdivision or certified survey map having an assigned number through which it may be identified and meeting the requirements of the City of Gillett Subdivision and Platting Regulations and Chapter 21, Zoning, for a building site.
Any roof that has an angle greater than 45° and which
derives part of its support from the building wall and is attached
to (but permitted to be not necessarily a part of) a low-slope roof,
and which extends along the full length of the front building wall
or at least 3/4 of the length of a side building wall. For purposes
of this chapter, a "low-slope roof" shall mean any roof with a pitch
of less than three inches rise per 12 inches horizontal.
A permanent roof-like structure attached to and supported
by the building and projecting over public property. For the purpose
of this chapter, a marquee shall be considered part of the building.
A sign attached to, painted on, or supported by a marquee.
A sign which serves as a remembrance of a person, event,
or place.
A sign or object, mounted directly to the ground or pavement,
with a maximum height not to exceed 10 feet and a total surface area
not to exceed 80 square feet per side.
A sign which serves as a common or collective identification
for a group of persons or businesses operating on the same zone lot
(i.e., shopping center, office complex, etc.). Such sign may name
the persons or business included but shall carry no other advertising
matter.
[Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General
Provisions, Art. III)]
A nonelectrical identification sign, not exceeding two square
feet in area, mounted flush (having the surface in the same plane)
to the principal building or displayed in a window, displaying the
name of the business, owner, operator, or home occupation.
A sign illuminated by a light source consisting of neon or
other gas tube that forms letters, symbols, lines, or other shapes.
A sign that exists at the effective date of the adoption
of this chapter that does not conform to the terms of this chapter.
The portion of a building used by an owner or operator, for
any lawful purpose, in compliance with the City Code.
Any sign that advertises, calls attention to, or identifies
an occupant, business, or property situated on a different lot than
the lot in which the sign is located.
Any sign that advertises, calls attention to, or identifies
an occupant, business, or property situated on the same lot as the
sign.
An outdoor sign associated with restaurants or with drive-through
windows which gives a detailed list of food or services that are available
at that establishment.
A low wall above the roof used as a rated fire wall.
A continuous acreage of land described in a single description
in a deed or one of a number of lots or outlots on a plat, separately
owned or capable of being separately conveyed.
Any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether
or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire,
or string, usually in series, designed to move in the wind.
Any sign attached to the ground, pavement or building so
as to remain with the property.
The authorization for a sign issued by the administrator
or its designee.
Any person, firm, partnership, association, corporation,
company, or organization, singular or plural, of any kind or nature.
A sign that is mounted on a freestanding pole or other support
so that the bottom edge of the sign is eight feet or more above natural
grade.
A sign in connection with a local, state or national election
or referendum; shall be limited to six square feet in area and erected
no more than 60 days before the election and removed within five days
after the election.
Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or any permanent
structure, or a sign designed to be transported, including but not
limited to: signs designed with wheels; signs converted to A-frames
or T-frames; menu and sandwich boards; umbrellas used for advertising;
and signs attached to or painted on vehicles parked and visible from
the public right-of-way, unless said vehicle is used in the normal
day-to-day operations of the business.
The building in which is conducted the principal use of the
lot on which it is located. Lots with multiple principal uses may
have multiple principal buildings, but storage buildings, garages,
and other clearly accessory uses shall not be considered principal
buildings.
A sign affixed or attached directly to the external wall
of a building or structure any part of which, including illumination
devices, extends more than 18 inches from the exterior wall of the
building or structure. This definition shall be interpreted to include
canopy signs.
Any event that is authorized by the City of Gillett, regardless
of whether it is funded either in whole, in part, or not at all, by
the City.
Permission by the owner of a piece of land to others to pass
across his/her land as an access agreement. Public amenities such
as streets and sidewalks or footpaths are part of the public right-of-way.
A sign placed upon property for the purpose of advertising
to the public the sale, lease, or rent of said property.
A sign that projects above the lowest point of the eaves
or the top of the parapet wall of any building or that is painted
on or fastened to a roof.
An advertising device which is ordinarily in the shape of
an "A" or some variation thereof, located on the ground, easily movable,
not permanently attached thereto, and which is usually two sided.
Two or more retail stores and/or service establishments sharing
customer parking areas regardless of whether said stores and/or establishments
occupy separate structures or are under separate ownerships.
A name, identification, description, display, or illustration
which is affixed to, or represented directly or indirectly upon, a
building, structure, or piece of land, and which directs attention
to an object, product, place, activity, person, institution, organization,
or business.
The vertical distance measured from the bottom of the sign
to the grade below.
The minimum horizontal distance between the line of a building
or structure and the property line.
Anything constructed or erected on the ground (to include
all types of buildings, attachments to buildings, parking lots, fences,
and berms).
A sign located on residentially zoned property containing
a personal announcement, not to exceed seven days.
Illumination which comes from lamps, lenses, or devices designed
to focus or concentrate the light rays of the source.
A length of the front property line of the lot, lots, or
tract of land abutting a public street, road, highway, or rural right-of-way.
A sign erected for a period of 30 consecutive days or less.
A bag made of material permeable to gas and filled with a
type of gas lighter than ordinary air, designed to rise and float
in the atmosphere, secured by a rope, chain, cord or similar means
of attachment, so as to restrict its movement within a small radius.
The actual window above a door or the crosspiece separating
a door or the like from a window above.
Any sign displaying a motion video.
A sign or billboard affixed or attached directly to the exterior
wall of a building or structure.
A sign containing no advertising material, warning the public
of the existence of danger.
The following outdoor signs, advertising structures, or devices
shall not require a permit under this chapter. However, they shall
be safely constructed and shall comply with all minimum setback requirements
imposed by this chapter:
A.
Civic event temporary signs. Nonprofit organizations, charitable
organizations, churches, service organizations, and similar groups
may display a temporary sign advertising a fund-raising effort or
local festival-type event provided the following:
(1)
Signs may be double-sided and are restricted to 100 square feet if
they are displayed on premises. Off-premises signs are restricted
to eight square feet in residential or institutional districts and
32 square feet in business and industrial districts.
(2)
Signs are to be removed within three days after the event.
B.
Construction signs.
(1)
Number. There shall not be more than two construction signs for each
project or development except where a project or development abuts
two or more streets. In such case, two signs may be allowed for each
abutting street frontage.
(3)
Location. Construction signs shall be located only upon the premises
upon which construction either is about to occur or is occurring.
Such signs shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from any abutting
property line, road right-of-way, or driveway and at least the height
of the sign plus two feet from the road right-of-way and out of vision
corner intersection.
(4)
Height. Construction signs shall not project higher than five feet,
as measured from the natural grade at the base of the sign.
(5)
Other conditions.
(a)
Temporary construction signs shall be permitted only as accessory
to an approved building permit and the names of the contractors, engineers,
architects, and financial institutions involved in the project development.
(b)
Construction signs may be erected and maintained for a period
not to exceed 10 days prior to the commencement of construction and
shall be removed within 10 days of the termination of construction
of the project or development.
(c)
No sign shall be placed on any tree or rock.
(d)
All such signs shall be nonilluminated, freestanding ground
signs.
C.
Election and campaign signs. Election and campaign signs are subject
to the following restrictions:
(1)
Area. Election and campaign signs shall be no larger than 16 square
feet.
(3)
Erection and removal.
(a)
The candidate for public office or a position on a referendum
or other matter on an election ballot wishing to place a political
sign under this permit exemption with their name or position on it
within the City limits must in fact be, or have their position or
matter eligible to be, on the ballot in the City of Gillett.
(b)
The first day to place election or campaign yard signs within
the City limits is the first day that candidates are eligible to circulate
nomination papers.
(c)
All political yard signs must be removed within three days following
the election.
D.
Garage sale signs. No person shall attach posters, notices, or advertisements
to utility poles, meter posts, or trees in or along any street right-of-way
within the City and that no person shall put up any notice upon any
building, wall, fence, or other property of another person without
having first obtained the written consent of the owner of such property.
The maximum time limit for all garage sale signs is three consecutive
days and nine cumulative days in a one-year period. Such signs shall
not exceed 12 square feet in area.
E.
Government signs.
F.
Neon signs. Neon signs are allowed in taverns, nightclubs, gas stations,
convenience stores and similar establishments only. Only one neon
sign is allowed per window.
G.
Noncommercial flags. Noncommercial flags may be flown upon a single
flagpole as follows:
(1)
For all noncommercial uses:
|
Flagpole Height
(feet)
|
Flag Size
(feet)
|
Flagpole Height
(feet)
|
Flag Size
(feet)
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
20
|
4 x 6
|
50
|
8 x 12 to 10 x 15
|
|
25
|
5 x 8
|
60 to 65
|
10 x 15 to 10 x 19
|
|
30 to 35
|
6 x 10
|
70 to 80
|
10 x 19 to 12 x 18
|
|
40 to 45
|
6 x 10 to 8 x 12
|
90 to 100
|
20 x 38 to 30 x 50
|
(2)
For all residential uses, no flagpole may be greater than 25 feet
high or carry a flag greater than four feet by six feet. A flagpole
20 feet or shorter shall not carry a flag larger than three feet by
five feet.
H.
Noncommercial signs. One sign per parcel is allowed, carrying any
lawful noncommercial message not exceeding 12 square feet in area.
[Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General
Provisions, Art. III)]
I.
Personal messages.
(1)
A sign announcing births, anniversaries, birthdays, retirement, graduations,
and other similar events of personal significance is allowed for a
period not exceeding seven consecutive days.
(2)
Such signs cannot exceed a total of 40 square feet in area or 20
square feet per side.
(3)
No trespassing/no dumping signs. Signs erected to give notice of
prohibitions on trespassing or dumping not exceeding 1 1/2 square
feet in area is allowed per each property line or building facade.
J.
Real estate signs.
(1)
Number. There shall not be more than one real estate sign for each
lot except that where a lot abuts two or more streets, one real estate
sign may be allowed for each abutting street frontage.
(2)
Area.
(a)
In Residential Districts, temporary "for sale" or "for rent"
real estate signs shall not exceed 12 square feet in area.
(b)
In Future Development Districts, temporary "for sale" real estate
signs shall not exceed 25 square feet in area and temporary "for lease"
or "for rent" real estate signs shall not exceed 10 square feet in
area.
(c)
"Sold" signs or stickers may be added so long as they do not
exceed 25% of the original sign area.
(3)
Location. Real estate signs shall be set a minimum of 10 feet from
any abutting side or rear property line or driveway. Additionally,
signs shall be set back 10 feet out of the right-of-way or out of
the vision corner intersection. Signs shall be set back at least the
height of the sign plus two feet out of the right-of-way and out of
the vision corner intersection.
(4)
Removal. Real estate signs shall be removed within 14 days of the
sale or lease of the premises upon which the sign is located.
(5)
Height. Real estate signs shall not project higher than six feet
as measured from the natural grade at the base of the sign in Future
Development Districts. Real estate signs shall not project higher
than four feet. This includes any "sold" sign which is affixed to
the real estate sign.
K.
Temporary nonilluminated window signs. Temporary nonilluminated window
signs for advertising purposes shall be allowed in the districts.
A.
General.
(1)
All signs under this section shall be allowed by issuance of a sign permit under § 22-12 of this chapter.
(2)
There shall be no more than two signs total per lot unless expressly
stated. All logos and insignia on a wall of the building or accessory
structure shall be counted as one sign.
(3)
No sign shall be located closer than 10 feet to any property line
or driveway. All signs must be located no closer to the right-of-way
than the designated front or side yard setback, whichever is applicable.
B.
Signs allowed in residential districts.
(1)
Home occupation signs.
(a)
There shall be only one sign allowed per lot.
(b)
Signs advertising a home occupation shall not exceed 12 square
feet in size and shall not be illuminated.
(c)
Home occupation signs shall be limited to either a ground sign
or a freestanding sign not exceeding four feet in height from the
natural grade.
(d)
Landscaping may be required at the discretion of the Planning
Committee.
(2)
Multifamily, apartment complex and mobile home park signs.
(a)
Type. Multifamily, apartment complex, or manufactured home park
identification signs shall be ground signs.
(b)
Number. There shall not be more than one identification sign
per complex.
(c)
Area. Identification signs shall not exceed 36 square feet in
area per sign.
[Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General
Provisions, Art. III)]
(d)
Location. Identification signs shall not be located closer than
10 feet to any property line, right-of-way, or driveway.
[Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General
Provisions, Art. III)]
(e)
Placement of sign shall be subject to the vision setback regulations
dependent upon which district the sign is located.
(f)
Height. Such identification signs shall not exceed six feet
in height as measured from preconstruction grade at the base of the
sign.
(g)
Landscaping. Landscaping around the base of ground signs or
freestanding signs shall be required at the discretion of the Planning
Committee.
(h)
Illumination. No electronic signs shall be permitted in these
districts. All lighting shall be directed at the face(s) of the sign.
(3)
Signs accessory to conditional use. These signs shall be limited
to churches, fraternal clubs/lodges, and similar institutional uses.
(a)
Limited to one ground sign, one wall sign, and one changeable
copy sign per parcel. No more than 50% of the total sign area may
consist of changeable copy.
(b)
Total sign area permitted for signs accessory to conditional
uses shall be determined by the length of the front facade of the
principal building, not including home occupation signs. When the
parcel fronts two or more streets, the front facade shall be the side
of the building where the main entrance is located.
|
Length of Facade
(feet)
|
Maximum Size
(square feet)
|
Length of Facade
(feet)
|
Maximum Size
(square feet)
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
15 or less
|
40
|
85 or less
|
96
|
|
20 or less
|
44
|
90 or less
|
100
|
|
25 or less
|
48
|
95 or less
|
104
|
|
30 or less
|
52
|
100 or less
|
108
|
|
35 or less
|
56
|
105 or less
|
112
|
|
40 or less
|
60
|
110 or less
|
116
|
|
45 or less
|
64
|
115 or less
|
120
|
|
50 or less
|
68
|
120 or less
|
124
|
|
55 or less
|
72
|
125 or less
|
128
|
|
60 or less
|
76
|
150 or less
|
148
|
|
65 or less
|
80
|
175 or less
|
168
|
|
70 or less
|
84
|
200 or less
|
188
|
|
75 or less
|
88
|
225 or less
|
200
|
|
80 or less
|
92
|
250 or less
|
220
|
(4)
Subdivision/neighborhood identification signs. A permanent sign used
to designate a residential subdivision entrance shall be permitted
subject to the Planning Committee and Common Council approval and
the following criteria:
(a)
Type. Subdivision identification signs shall be ground signs.
(b)
Number. There shall not be more than one subdivision identification
sign for each point of vehicular access to the subdivision.
(c)
Area. Subdivision identification signs shall not exceed 36 square
feet in area per sign.
(d)
Location. Subdivision identification signs shall not be located
closer than 10 feet to any property line, right-of-way or driveway.
(e)
Placement. The sign shall be subject to the vision setback regulations as put forth in § 22-10E.
(f)
Height. Subdivision identification signs shall not exceed six
feet in height as measured from preconstruction grade at the base
of the sign.
C.
Signs allowed in commercial, industrial and future development districts.
(1)
Awning signs.
(a)
Awnings shall be securely attached to and supported by the building
and shall be without posts or columns.
(b)
All awnings shall be constructed and erected so that the lowest
portion thereof shall not be lower than eight feet above the level
of the public sidewalk or public thoroughfare.
(c)
No entrance awning shall extend more than four feet from the
building to which it is affixed.
(d)
No advertising shall be placed on any awning except the name
and logo of the business establishment to which awning is affixed.
Text shall be permanently placed in a space not exceeding eight inches
in height on the front and side panels of the awning. Logos may not
exceed 18 inches in height and shall be placed on the front face on
the lower 2/3 of the awning. The number and placement of logos shall
be subject to the discretion of the Planning Committee and the Building
Inspector.
(e)
Downward directional lighting shall be used on the underside
of the awning. All lighting required to externally illuminate the
top surface must be constructed in a manner that architecturally complements
the building and must be directed entirely at the awning.
(f)
As a practical consideration, roll-up awnings and awnings with
little or no fringe will have a longer life.
(g)
Decorative awnings without lettering or imagery are not considered
signs.
(2)
Canopy signs.
(a)
The structural support of all canopies shall be properly designed
and approved by the Building Inspector. All frames and supports shall
be designed to withstand wind pressure and other forces as described
in this chapter.
(b)
All canopies on sidewalks shall be constructed and erected so
that the lowest portion thereof is at least eight feet above the level
of the sidewalk.
(c)
No canopy entrance shall extend past the build-to line. In addition,
no canopy shall extend beyond private premises or into the public
right-of-way.
(d)
No advertising shall be placed except the name and logo of the
business establishment to which the canopy is affixed. Text shall
be permanently placed in a space not exceeding eight inches in height
on the front and side panels of the canopy. Logos may not exceed 18
inches in height and shall be placed on the front face on the lower
2/3 of the canopy.
(e)
A canopy sign shall not project higher than one foot from the
top of the canopy to which the sign is attached. Downward directional
lighting shall be used on the underside of the canopy to illuminate
the entrance. All lighting required to externally illuminate the top
surface must be constructed in a manner that architecturally complements
the building and must be directed entirely at the canopy sign text
or logo.
(f)
All canopies on sidewalks shall be constructed and erected so
that the lowest portion is at least 12 feet above the level of a private
driveway.
(g)
Only one canopy sign per lot.
(4)
Drop boxes, ATMs, vending machines and newspaper dispensers. Drop
boxes, ATMs, vending machines and newspaper dispensers cannot exceed
33% of the building frontage.
(5)
Electronic signs.
(a)
Signs shall not exceed 24 square feet in size.
(b)
Electronic signs are restricted to time and temperature signs,
commercial text and public service announcements.
(c)
Flashing messages are strictly prohibited.
(d)
Animated displays are strictly prohibited.
(e)
Each sign must have a light sensing device that will adjust
the brightness of the display as the natural ambient light conditions
change.
(f)
Signs cannot project more than 18 inches from a building space
or the face of the sign.
(g)
Electronic signs shall contain a default design that will freeze
the design in one position if a malfunction occurs.
(6)
Freestanding signs.
(a)
Only one freestanding sign per lot.
(b)
No freestanding sign shall exceed 100 square feet and the freestanding
sign shall contain the address number.
(c)
No sign shall exceed six feet as measured from the natural grade
in the commercial districts. No sign shall exceed 15 feet as measured
from the natural grade in the industrial districts.
(d)
Freestanding signs shall be externally illuminated by light
projected onto the surface of the sign. All such lighting shall be
directed specifically at the sign with no straying light.
(e)
Landscaping shall be required around the base of the sign at
the discretion of the Planning Committee.
(7)
Gas station canopy signs.
(a)
All words, logos, and related messages shall be limited to 25
square feet in total for all sides of the canopy. Said sign area shall
not be counted as part of the otherwise permitted area and number
of signs.
(b)
One canopy sign may be placed on each side of the canopy which
directly abuts and faces a right-of-way.
(c)
Canopy signs may be placed directly on the fascia or may be
three-dimensional in nature. Three-dimensional signs shall project
no more than 12 inches from the canopy fascia.
(8)
Ground signs.
(a)
Only one ground sign is allowed per lot.
(b)
No ground sign shall exceed 100 square feet and the ground sign
shall contain the address number.
(c)
Ground signs shall be externally illuminated by light projected
onto the surface of the sign. All such lighting shall be directed
specifically at the sign with no straying light.
(d)
Landscaping shall be required around the base of the sign at
the discretion of the Planning Committee.
(e)
No ground sign shall exceed eight feet in height from the natural
grade.
(9)
Multiple tenant identification signs. Where multiple tenants occupy
a single parcel, total signage area allowed shall be determined by
sign type requirements and shall be divided among the tenants.
(10)
Outdoor menu boards.
(a)
Outdoor menu boards are only allowed on lots which have previously
been approved for restaurants, drive-through-type businesses, and
other related businesses.
(b)
Only one menu board is allowed per establishment.
(c)
Outdoor menu boards are limited to 32 square feet and are limited
to wall mounts.
(d)
If the sign is lighted, it may be lighted by external illumination
only and only during business hours.
(11)
Pole signs.
(a)
Pole signs shall be used for on-premises advertising only.
(b)
The height of pole signs is restricted to the height of the
principal structure.
(c)
The lowest level of the sign atop a pole sign shall not be less
than eight feet above the natural grade for sidewalks, parking lots,
driveways and other areas used by motor vehicles.
(d)
Pole signs shall not exceed 200 square feet on all sides for
any one business.
(e)
No portion of a pole sign, including the sign face, may extend
into the front building setback.
(f)
Pole signs shall not be less than 10 feet from all rear and
side lot lines.
(g)
Pole signs shall have support poles that do not exceed eight
inches in diameter.
(12)
Projecting signs.
(a)
Projecting signs shall be considered double-faced signs. Projecting
signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in sign face area (16 square
feet per sign face).
(b)
Only one projecting sign shall be allowed per building street
frontage.
(c)
Only ground-floor commercial businesses having less than 70
feet street frontage shall be permitted to utilize projecting signs.
(d)
Projecting signs must clear sidewalks by at least eight feet
and may project no more than four feet from the building or closer
than two feet to the edge of the sidewalk, whichever is less.
(e)
Projecting signs are not allowed at the intersections of streets
except at right angles to a building front.
(13)
Wall signs.
(a)
There shall not be more than one wall sign for each principal
building.
(b)
Only one wall sign is allowed per lot.
(c)
A wall sign may be located on the outermost wall of any principal
building but shall not project more than 13 inches from the wall to
which the sign is to be affixed.
(d)
A wall sign shall not project higher than the parapet line of
the wall to which the sign is to be affixed.
(e)
The top of a wall sign shall not be placed higher than 20 feet
from the base of the building wall to which the sign is affixed.
(f)
The total height of a wall sign from the top of the sign to
the bottom of the sign shall not exceed eight feet in height.
(g)
Total sign area shall be determined by the length of the front
facade of the principal building. When the parcel fronts two or more
streets, the front facade shall be the side of the building where
the main entrance is located.
(h)
Where a building has multiple tenants, the length of the facade
of the tenant's unit shall determine the size for each individual
sign as indicated below.
(14)
Window signs.
(a)
Window signs shall be limited to one location on the primary
display windows or doors.
(b)
All window signs which are professionally painted or vinyl-applied
decals shall be affixed to the interior of the windows and/or doors
to avoid weathering. Grease paint is strictly prohibited for business
signs.
(c)
Window signs are permissible in the transom, provided it serves
as the only permitted sign.
(d)
Window signs shall adhere to the area requirements set for wall
signs but should not exceed 30% of the total window area.
(e)
Window signs which display the address, hours of operation,
or other similar information shall not count towards the overall sign
area.
A.
Normal maintenance shall be permitted. Normal maintenance shall include,
but is not limited to, painting of chipped or faded signs, replacement
of faded or damaged surface panels, and repair or replacement of electrical
wiring or electrical devices.
B.
No nonconforming sign shall be replaced with another nonconforming
sign.
C.
Existing signs which become nonconforming upon adoption of this chapter
shall not be remodeled, relocated or changed in size unless such action
will make the sign conforming in all respects with this chapter.
D.
At any such time as the owner of any building or lot on which a nonconforming
sign(s) is/are located requires Planning Committee approval for any
changes to the use, structure, or lot, the Planning Committee shall
require that such nonconforming sign(s) be removed or made to conform
with this chapter as a condition of building or site approval.
A.
No person, business or corporation shall erect or display any form
of temporary commercial sign without first obtaining a sign permit
from the Building Inspector.
B.
Application for a temporary commercial sign shall be made on a form
provided by the Building Inspector and shall be accompanied by a permit
fee.
(1)
A permit fee shall not be required for a bona fide nonprofit group
advertising a fund-raiser or other similar event.
C.
The term of a temporary sign permit shall not exceed 30 consecutive
days from the date of issuance, at the end of the term such permit
shall expire. Any sign or advertising device allowed by said permit
shall be removed or permit shall be reissued.
D.
Each face of a temporary sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in
area, and the total area of such device or sign shall not exceed 64
square feet. The maximum height of a temporary freestanding sign is
restricted to six feet.
E.
The failure to remove a sign or advertising device upon expiration
of the sign permit shall be a violation of this chapter and each day
of violation thereafter shall be considered a separate offense.
F.
Any such sign or device shall not contain more than two faces, each
of which shall be on a different side of the sign or device.
G.
No sign or device may be placed in the vision corner or any other
portion of the public right-of-way. Signs shall be set back a minimum
of 10 feet from the public right-of-way.
H.
Banners shall not be displayed for more than 30 consecutive days without a permit. After 30 days, banners will be considered temporary signs as governed by § 22-8 of this chapter.
I.
Each temporary sign shall be appropriately secured and constructed
consistent with public safety.
The following signs are prohibited in the City of Gillett:
A.
Abandoned signs.
B.
Roof signs, except those associated with special civic and social
events. All such signs must receive written consent of the Planning
Committee.
C.
Signs that are attached or otherwise affixed to trees or other living
vegetation.
D.
Signs that imitate, interfere with, obstruct the view of, or can
be confused with any authorized traffic control sign, signal, or other
device.
E.
Signs containing reflective elements which sparkle or twinkle in
the sunlight.
F.
Banners, pennants, streamers, balloons and other gas-filled figures,
except as a permitted temporary sign.
G.
Portable signs except as a permitted temporary sign.
H.
Signs attached to, erected, or maintained on any standpipe, exterior
stairway, fire escape, tower, or balcony so as to interfere with the
use thereof.
I.
Signs erected at or near the intersection of any streets in such
manner as to obstruct free and clear vision thereof, or at any location
where, by reason of the position, shape, or color, they may interfere
with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic
sign, signal, or other device.
J.
Signs which make use of the words, "STOP," "LOOK," "DANGER," or any
other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as to interfere
with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
K.
Signs erected, constructed, or maintained so as to obstruct any exit,
any window opening necessary for required light or ventilation, or
which prevents free passage from one part of a roof to another.
L.
Signs entirely supported by a parapet wall.
M.
Signs, cards, banners, pictures, handbills, sign posters, advertising,
or notice of any kind, on any curb, street walk, public thoroughfare
surface, fence, board, barrel, box, case, railing, pole, post, bridge,
tree, barricade, material, bridge fender, dock, pile, building or
structure of any kind on public ground or public waterways within
the City of Gillett, except as approved by the Common Council. Public
ground shall include, but not be limited to, all City-owned, Oconto
County-owned, and State of Wisconsin-owned parcels and roadways.
N.
Neon tubing exposed to view and not covered with an opaque cover
of Plexiglas or other similar material.
O.
It shall be unlawful for any person to operate, erect, or maintain
any attraction device or sign which contains a beacon of any type.
A.
Design, construction, and erection standards.
(1)
All signs shall be designed and constructed in a safe and stable
manner in accordance with adopted City and Wisconsin building codes
and electric codes. All electrical wiring associated with a ground
sign shall be installed underground.
(2)
All signs shall be designed to comply with minimum wind pressure
and other requirements set forth in the building code. Sandwich signs
shall be designed to collapse upon being struck by a vehicle or with
excessive wind pressure.
B.
Architectural and engineering standards.
(1)
Gas stations, convenience stores and related structures.
(a)
All signs shall be designed to be a wall sign attached to either
the principal structure or canopy or a ground sign.
(b)
All other signs shall be allowed only by a conditional use permit.
(c)
All wall signs shall be externally illuminated by downward directional
lighting aimed directly at the sign.
(d)
All ground signs shall be externally illuminated by floodlights
directed on the face(s) from the ground or downward directional light
from the sign itself or be internally illuminated.
(e)
Lighting on all gas station canopies shall be fully recessed
or flush with the canopy and downward directional.
(2)
Ground signs.
(a)
These signs shall be architecturally integrated with the principal
building.
(b)
The base of the sign shall be constructed with permanent building
materials that are complementary in color to the building.
(c)
The color scheme of the sign and sign frame shall be complementary
to the building and surrounding area.
(d)
Architectural features (i.e., sills, piers, reveals, capstones,
medallions, etc.) that are part of the architectural style of the
principal building should be incorporated into the sign.
(e)
The sign face shall be constructed with an opaque surface to
allow internal light to only project through the cutout lettering
and/or logos.
(f)
All signs in commercial districts which are adjacent to any
residential district shall be constructed to complement the existing
residential development.
(3)
Projecting signs.
(a)
The support of the sign shall be constructed with building materials
that are complementary in color to the building.
(b)
The color scheme of the sign, frame, and supporting materials
shall be complementary to the building and surrounding area.
(c)
Architectural features (i.e., sills, piers, reveals, capstones,
medallions, etc.) that are part of the architectural style of the
principal building should be incorporated into the sign.
(d)
The sign face shall be constructed with an opaque surface to
allow internal light to only project through the cutout lettering
and/or logos.
(4)
Wall signs.
(a)
Wall signs attached to exterior building walls shall be anchored
or attached in such a manner as will ensure stability and safety.
(b)
The sign shall be constructed with building materials that are
complementary in color to the building.
(c)
The color scheme of the sign, frame, and supporting materials
shall be complementary to the building and surrounding area.
(d)
The sign face shall be constructed with an opaque surface.
(e)
The sign shall not be internally illuminated.
C.
Illumination standards.
(1)
In addition to complying with the provisions of this chapter, all
signs in which electrical wiring and connections are to be used shall
be subject to applicable provisions of the State of Wisconsin Code
or National Electrical Code, whichever provisions are more restrictive.
(2)
Signs shall be illuminated only by steady, stationary, shielded light
sources directed solely at the sign, or internal to it.
(3)
Use of glaring undiffused lights or bulbs shall be prohibited. Lights
shall be shaded so as not to project onto adjoining properties or
streets.
(4)
Sign illumination that distracts motorists or otherwise create a
traffic hazard shall be prohibited.
(5)
Illumination by bare bulbs or flames is strictly prohibited.
(6)
Sandwich signs shall not be illuminated.
(7)
All required lighting shall be directed at the face(s) of the sign.
Resulting stray illumination shall not exceed 0.1 footcandle at the
property boundary.
(8)
The use of unshielded lighting including exposed incandescent light
bulbs hung or strung on poles, wires, or any other type of support
intended to illuminate a sign or other advertising device is strictly
prohibited.
(9)
All sign lighting shall be so designed, located, shielded, and hooded
so as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent
roadways, surrounding properties or into the sky, except for flag
lights. Downward directional lighting shall be employed to the greatest
extent possible.
(10)
In no case shall be the lighting intensity of any sign, whether
resulting from internal or external illumination, exceed 60 footcandles
when measured with a standard light meter held perpendicular to the
sign face at a distance of 10 inches.
D.
Landscaping standards. Where any sign is proposed to be externally
illuminated using ground-mounted fixtures (i.e., floodlights, etc.),
landscape plantings shall be installed in such a manner as will entirely
shield the light source from surrounding view. Landscaping plantings
shall be of a type as will ensure effective year-long screening.
E.
Location standards.
(1)
No signage may cause a reduction in required or previously existing
off-street parking spaces or in any manner interfere with the use
of such off-street parking spaces.
(2)
In any zoning district, no sign or sign support structure shall be
set back less than 10 feet from any abutting lot line or driveway.
(3)
Placement of all signs shall be subject to more stringent setback
requirements where, according to professional traffic engineering
standards, required to preserve traffic sight lines.
(4)
Signs may be no closer than 10 feet from any established vision corner.
A.
The owner of any sign as defined and regulated by this chapter shall
be required to properly maintain the appearance and safety of all
parts and supports of their sign.
B.
In the event that the sign owner does not provide sign maintenance
within 60 days after written notification from the City, the Building
Inspector shall take enforcement action as provided by this chapter.
A.
Authority. Except as expressly provided in this chapter, it shall
be unlawful for any person to erect, repair, alter, or relocate any
sign without first obtaining a sign permit.
B.
Application for permit. Sign permit applications, including all required
fees, shall be filed with the Building Inspector, who shall review
the application for its completeness and accuracy. Applications shall
contain or have attached thereto the following information:
(1)
Name, address, and telephone number of applicant and the location
of the building, structure, or parcel to which or upon which the sign
is to be attached or erected.
(2)
Name of person, company, corporation, or association erecting the
sign.
(3)
Written consent of the owner of the building, structure, or parcel
to which or upon which the sign is to be affixed.
(4)
A scale drawing of such sign indicating the dimensions, materials
to be used, color scheme, type of illumination, if any, and the method
of construction or attachment.
(5)
A scale drawing indicating the location, position, and color scheme
of such sign in relation to nearby buildings or structures.
(6)
Additional information as may be required by the City.
C.
Issuance of a permit.
(1)
Upon the filing of a complete application for a sign permit, the
Building Inspector shall examine the application to determine whether
the proposed sign is in compliance with the requirements of this chapter
and any other applicable regulations of the City of Gillett.
(2)
Within 90 days of filing the application, the following shall apply
unless the applicant consents to a longer period of review:
(a)
If the proposed sign is not in compliance with the structural and dimensional requirements of this chapter or other applicable regulations, the Building Inspector shall deny such permit and provide written notice to the applicant stating with specificity the reasons therefor, with citations to applicable regulations and an explanation of the appeal process set forth under § 22-15 of this chapter.
(b)
If the proposed sign is a temporary sign and the Building Inspector determines that the sign complies with this chapter and other applicable regulations, the Building Inspector shall issue or conditionally issue the permit. If the application is conditionally approved, written notice shall be provided to the applicant of the conditions of approval. Temporary signs shall also meet the requirements of § 22-8 of this chapter.
(c)
If the proposed sign complies with all structural and dimensional
requirements of this chapter and other applicable regulations, the
Building Inspector shall issue or conditionally issue the permit.
If the application is conditionally approved, written notice shall
be provided to the applicant of the conditions of approval. The permit
shall expire six months from the date of issuance.
Administrative fees for sign permit review shall be in accordance
with the City of Gillett's established fee schedule.
A.
Any sign now or hereafter existing that no longer advertises a bona
fide business or project or that is dilapidated, out of repair, unsafe,
insecure, or has been constructed, erected, or maintained in violation
of the provisions of this chapter shall be taken down and removed
by the owner, agent, or person having the beneficial use of the building
or land upon which such sign may be found. If within 10 days after
written notification from the City, the sign owner fails to comply
with such notice, the City may remove such sign. Any expense thereto
shall be paid by the owner of the building or land to which such sign
is attached. In the event such cost and expenses are not paid within
30 days from the date of billing, the costs and expenses incurred
for such removal shall be assessed against the real estate upon which
such sign is located and collected pursuant to § 66.0627,
Wis. Stats.
B.
Any sign that is constructed without a sign permit shall be removed
unless a sign permit application is filed within 10 days' written
notice to the owner by the City. If a sign permit application is not
filed and the sign is not removed or if the application for a sign
permit is denied and the sign is not removed within 10 days' written
notice, the City may remove such sign. Any expense thereto shall be
paid by the owner of the building or land to which such sign is attached.
In the event such cost and expenses are not paid within 30 days from
the date of billing, the costs and expenses incurred for such removal
shall be assessed against the real estate upon which such sign is
located and collected pursuant to § 66.0627, Wis. Stats.
C.
The Building Inspector may cause any sign or other advertising structure
that he/she determines to be an immediate peril to persons or property
to be removed summarily and without notice. Any expense thereto shall
be paid by the owner of the building or land to which such sign is
attached. In the event such cost and expenses are not paid within
30 days from the date of billing, the costs and expenses incurred
for such removal shall be assessed against the real estate upon which
such sign is located and collected pursuant to § 66.0627,
Wis. Stats.
D.
The Building Inspector may in writing suspend or revoke a permit issued under provisions of this chapter whenever the permit is issued on the basis of a misstatement of fact or fraud. The written revocation shall describe the appeal process set forth under § 22-15 of this chapter. The Building Inspector shall send the revocation by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the sign owner.
A.
Appeals.
(1)
The Zoning Board of Appeals shall hear all appeals by any person
aggrieved by any actions or decisions of the Building Inspector or
other City Officer or employee charged with implementing the provisions
of this chapter where it is alleged an error has been made in any
factual determination or application of any provision of this chapter
or any applicable state or federal law. For purposes of this section,
an aggrieved person is an applicant for a sign permit, a holder of
a sign permit, or any person who is alleged to have violated any provision
of this chapter.
(2)
A written request for an appeal, including the name and address of
the appellant and a brief statement of the nature of the appeal, shall
be filed with the City Clerk within 10 days of receiving written notice
of the decision being appealed. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall
hold a hearing on said appeal within 60 days of filing the appeal
and written notice of the hearing shall be mailed to the address given
by the appellant.
(3)
The Zoning Board of Appeals shall issue and mail to the appellant
a written decision within 10 working days of the hearing. Appeals
of the Zoning Board of Appeals shall be by certiorari review to the
Oconto County Circuit Court or as otherwise provided by law.
B.
Variances. The Planning Committee may, in its judgment, authorize
such variance from the terms of this chapter as will not be contrary
to the public interest where, owing to special conditions, a literal
enforcement of the provisions of the chapter will result in unnecessary
hardship, so that the spirit of the chapter shall be observed, public
safety and welfare secured, and substantial justice done.
