[1-12-2021 by Ord. No. 5119]
A.
Intent. The intent of this article is to regulate and control the location, erection, number, and maintenance of signs and matters relating thereto within the City of Crestwood in order to promote public safety, health, and general welfare of the community, without infringing upon the rights granted by the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America and Article I, Section 8, of the Constitution of the State of Missouri. These regulations are specifically designed to:
1.
Provide uniform regulation and orderly development of signs consistent
with established policies and ordinances of the City.
2.
Preserve the unique character of the City as reflected in distinct
commercial and industrial areas by ensuring signs contribute to an
appropriate sense of place.
3.
Enhance the visual quality of commercial and industrial areas by
giving visual priority to buildings, open spaces, streetscapes, and
landscape.
4.
Ensure safety of pedestrians, motorists or other users of the public
rights-of-way and open spaces by ensuring signs are maintained and
structurally safe, do not distract or reduce the effectiveness of
public safety signs, and do not represent traffic hazards by virtue
of their placement and lighting.
5.
Promote economic viability by assuring that the City will be a visually
pleasant place to visit, conduct business, and live.
6.
Provide effective and efficient identification and communication
for businesses without excessive competition for visual attention.
7.
Protect property values by minimizing adverse effects of signs on
adjacent property, which can occur from conditions such as light trespass,
obstructing the views and access, or visual clutter and blight.
8.
Allow signs that are compatible with their surroundings and aid in
orientation.
9.
Prohibit the placement of signs that contribute to sign clutter or
conceal or obstruct adjacent land uses or signs; to preclude signs
from conflicting with the principal permitted use of the site and
adjoining sites; and to minimize the possible adverse effect of signs
on nearby public and private property.
10.
Reduce visual clutter that may otherwise be caused by the proliferation,
improper placement, illumination, animation, excessive height, and
excessive size (area) of signs which compete for the attention of
pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
B.
Applicability. This article shall apply in the following scenarios:
1.
All new signs and replacement of existing signs shall require a sign permit demonstrating compliance with these sign standards, unless exempt from a permit by § 26-34 (Permit requirements and exceptions) of this article.
2.
Ordinary maintenance, care or repair of existing signs, or change
of copy without altering the essential construction elements of an
existing sign shall not require a permit for zoning and design standards,
but any electrical or building code issues may require permitting.
3.
New commercial or industrial development, redevelopment, or rehabilitation involving multiple buildings or buildings comprising multiple tenants and any development subject to site plan or development plan review in conjunction with Article III, § 26-10 (Planned development), or§ 26-12 (Major site plan and design review), as required by the zoning district provisions of Article IV, § 26-16 (Standards applicable to all districts), Subsection B (Exceptions and supplemental standards), and Article IV, § 26-18 (Watson Road Overlay Area), applicable to the Watson Road Overlay Area shall include information to indicate the type, size, and location of all signage in compliance with the provisions of § 26-33 (Design and location standards) of this article and the design standards.
[1-12-2021 by Ord. No. 5119]
Terms used in this article, unless the context otherwise indicates,
shall have the following meanings:
Signs that flash or move or otherwise change at intervals
more frequently than once each six seconds. Any sign that utilizes
the appearance of movement using lighting to depict action or to create
a special effect or scene. (Also see "electronic message centers.")
Any pennant, propeller, spinner, ribbon, streamer, searchlight,
balloon, inflatable sign (static), figurine, statue, or other similar
device or ornamentation designed to or having the effect of attracting
the attention of potential customers or the general public. An attention-getting
device shall be considered a sign and shall meet all requirements
of this chapter for a sign.
Any sign attached to in any manner or otherwise made a part
of any awning or awning-like structure, canopy, or other fabric, plastic,
or structural protective cover which projects beyond a building or
extends along and projects beyond the wall of the building, generally
designed and constructed to provide protection from the weather.
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Any sign constructed of lightweight fabric or similar material.
Flags shall not be considered banners.
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Any light with one or more beams directed into the atmosphere
or directed at one or more points not on the same lot as the light
source; also, any light with one or more beams that rotate or move.
An outdoor sign advertising an article or product not manufactured,
assembled, processed, repaired, or sold upon the premises upon which
the sign is located or advertising a service not rendered upon the
premises upon which the sign is located.
A wall sign in which all components are contained within
a frame and not composed of individual letters.
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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 (not including electronic message centers). A
sign on which the message changes more than eight times per day shall
be considered an animated sign or electronic message center and not
a changeable copy sign for purposes of this article.
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A sign which is designed and erected solely for the purpose
of traffic or pedestrian direction and placed on the property (except
as otherwise provided for in this article) to direct the public to
building locations, parking areas, or specific areas of a property
or overall development.
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The period from 30 days prior to any election voted in by
the residents of Crestwood until two days after such elections.
Any sign, or portion of a sign, capable of displaying electronic
content where the rate of change is electronically programmed and
can be modified by electronic processes. An electronic message center
or display may include computer programmable, microprocessor, or controlled
electronic or digital video displays and the images can be produced
from LED technology, fiber optics, light bulbs, or other illumination
devices within the display area. Electronic message centers do not
include projected images or messages projected onto buildings or other
objects.
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The Director of Public Services or his/her designee.
Any sign that is cut into masonry or other surfaces.
To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend, affix,
or paint signs.
Any surface of a sign upon, against, or through which the
message is displayed or illustrated on the sign.
A cloth with colors, patterns, and/or symbols, etc.
Signs that have flashing lights or intermittent illumination,
except as otherwise defined herein, including signs that draw attention
to speed limits, stop signs, fire stations, school zones and similar
governmental or public uses.
Any sign which has the top part of its face less than 10
feet above the ground and which is erected on the ground.
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Any sign made of cardboard, poster board, paper, plywood,
or other similar material, including any sign with handwritten text
or symbols.
Any sign, which has characters, letters, figures, designs,
or outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes as a
part of the sign proper. Such lighting may be internal to the sign
structure or external to the sign face, but part of the sign structure
or mounting.
Any material, which will not ignite at or below a temperature
of 1,200° F. and will not continue to burn or glow at that temperature.
A sign that has the lowest part of its face at least eight
feet above the ground and which is designed to be attached to or a
part of a light standard principally designed for illuminating a street,
parking, or public space area.
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The portion of the roadway designed for the movement of persons,
including driving lanes, shoulders, auxiliary lanes, and roadside
picnic, parking, rest and observation areas, and other areas immediately
adjacent and contiguous to the traveled portion of the roadway and
for the use of the traveling person, but not necessarily located with
the roadway right-of-way.
Any structure attached to a building often forming a canopy
or porte cochere over a building entry attached at the building face
and suspended from above or supported with posts or columns, or a
freestanding structure, with one or more supports, onto which signage
is affixed or incorporated.
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A sign generally having a low profile with little or no open
space between the ground and the sign and having a significant base
constructed of materials such as brick, stucco, stonework, textured
wood, tile, or textured concrete, or other similar materials that
are compatible with the primary structure on the building.
The standard unit of brightness for electronic and digital
signage. The nit, also known as "candelas per square meter," is a
unit of measurement for the total brightness over one square meter
of an LED display. It is a measure of the light being emitted by the
sign in contrast to footcandles which measure the brightness of the
surface area or object that is being lighted.
Any sign that does not conform to the requirements of this
article.
Any sign that is no longer relating to current activities
on a premises or lot.
All industrial, commercial and mercantile signs advertising
the business on its premises or any of its activities, including permanent
theater signs.
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. Flags
are not considered pennants for the purposes of this definition.
Any sign, which has the lowest part of its face, at least
10 feet above the ground and which is supported by a freestanding
pole except as noted in § 26-320(D)(7) (Standards and requirements
by sign type; Pole signs) herein.
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Any sign not permanently affixed to the ground or other permanent
structure. Also, a sign designed to be transported, including, but
not limited to: signs designed to be transported by means of wheels,
signs converted to A- or T-frames, menu and sandwich board signs,
balloons, umbrellas, and signs attached to or painted on vehicles
parked and visible from the public right-of-way. Any sign designed
to be transported, which has had its means of transportation removed
(wheels, trailer, etc.), shall still be considered a portable sign.
A sign which uses one or more visible posts and is unlighted.
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Any sign projecting outwardly from the building.
Any sign that has changeable or removable lettering, with
the exception of marquee signs.
Any sign placed at or near the entrance of a residential
subdivision.
Any sign painted, erected, constructed and maintained upon
the roof of any building, including wall signs or projecting signs
attached to a building wall, that extend above the roofline.
An area containing three or more shops, stores, and other
places of business and located in the C-1 Local Business District
or in an approved planned development commercial district or mixed
development district under the zoning ordinance and providing off-street
parking facilities in common for all businesses and their customers.
Any letter, figure, design, symbol, trademark, panel, device
or structure designed or intended to convey information to the public
in written or pictorial form, including without limitation, billboard,
banner sign, directional sign, ground sign, monument sign, portable
sign, pole sign, wall sign, roof sign, projecting sign, temporary
sign, marquee, awning, canopy, when placed out of doors or in show
display windows intended to be visible from the outside.
The total area of the space to be used for advertising purposes,
including the spaces between open-type letters and figures, including
the background structure, or other decoration or addition which is
an integral part of the sign. Sign supports shall be excluded in determining
the area of a sign. The total allowable area for a double-faced sign,
where the two faces are not substantially parallel, shall be equal
to the allowable area for a single faced sign. See § 26-33(Design
and location standards), Subsection A (Computation of area).
The molding, battens, cappings, nailing strips, latticing,
and platforms which are attached to the sign structure.
Signs which are not permanent in nature and typically are
installed for a period of 90 days or less.
An on-premises sign with unique identifying characteristics that, as designated by the Planning Commission, contributes to the historical or cultural character of the neighborhood, City, or region and designated in § 26-33 (Design and location standards) Subsection D22 (Vintage signs) of this article.
Any sign affixed to the front, side or rear wall of any building
and parallel to the face of the wall.
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Any sign that is intended to be viewed through a show display
window.
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A sign made of wood, plastic, or other similar material that
is placed in a yard.
[1-12-2021 by Ord. No. 5119]
The following standards shall control the design and location
for computation of sign area and height.
A.
Computation of area. Except is may be otherwise provided for in this
section, the computation of sign area shall be as follows:
1.
General area calculation. Signs mounted on or displayed as a standard
geometrical shape shall be measured by the standard mathematical formula
for that shape. Signs mounted on or displayed as an irregular shape
shall be measured by the smallest area of up to two standard geometrical
shapes that can encompass the entire sign mounting.
 Figure 26-33-1
General Sign Area
Signs are measured based upon the basic shapes or a combination
or multiple shapes. Displayed are examples of how a sign is measured
and real examples of signs and they could be measured.
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2.
Detached signs. The area of the sign shall be computed by the entire
area of the face of the structure, cabinet, or module enclosed by
the border of the frame.
3.
Wall, window, or other building-mounted signs. Any building-mounted
sign mounted on a background shall be measured by the area of the
background. If mounted directly on the wall, the area shall be computed
by means of the smallest single and continuous perimeter of up to
two standard geometric shapes that enclose the outer limits of the
writing, emblem, or other display. Gaps in writing, emblems, or other
display greater than two times the height of the sign area, when using
the same single continuous perimeter above, may be subtracted from
the calculation of the sign area but shall be interpreted as two signs.
The area of the wall or window area for the purposes of determining
an allowed percentage shall be the total surface of the wall or window
visible in an elevation view.
 Figure 26-33-2
Building-Mounted Signs
Building-mounted signs can be measured as one sign or two depending
on the distance between the two. If the sign distance exceeds two
times the height of the sign, it is measured as two signs could be
measured.
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4.
Double-faced signs. Where the sign faces of a double-faced sign are
no more than three feet apart at any location, only one face will
be measured in computing sign area. If the two faces of a double-faced
sign are of unequal area, the area of the sign will be the area of
the larger face. In all other cases, the areas of all faces of a multifaced
sign or the surface area of objects will be added together to compute
the area of the sign.
B.
Computation of height and location.
1.
Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from
the base of the sign at normal grade to the top of the highest attached
component of the sign. Normal grade shall be the newly established
grade after construction, exclusive of any filling, berming, mounding,
or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the sign. In cases
in which the normal grade cannot reasonably be determined, sign height
shall be computed on the assumption that the elevation of the normal
grade at the base of the sign is equal to the elevation of the nearest
point of the crown of a public street or the grade of the land at
the principal entrance to the principal structure on the lot, whichever
is lower.
C.
Quantity of signs per business. Signage related to business locations
shall be limited to the quantities stipulated below:
1.
Each individual building or structure occupied by one business shall
be allowed a maximum of two signs, which may be a wall sign, a projecting
sign, a ground sign or a pole sign, provided that there shall not
be more than one sign per type, except as detailed in Subsection C2.
2.
For a business located on a lot with multiple street or parking frontages,
one wall sign may be permitted on each street/parking side of the
building, one projecting sign may be permitted on each street/parking
side of the building, and one pole sign or ground sign on such lot
may be permitted, provided that there shall not be more than two types
of signs.
3.
Where more than one business has a separate exterior entrance to a building, each business shall be allowed two signs, one of which may be a wall sign and the other of which may be an under-canopy sign or a sign as described under § 26-33 (Design and location standards), Subsection D9 (Standards and requirements by sign types; Shopping center signs) herein, if applicable.
4.
Two nonilluminated signs may be lettered on the glass show window or entry door of each storefront of a business, as described under § 26-33 (Design and location standards), Subsection D5 (Standards and requirements by sign types; Window signs).
5.
A canopy or awning sign may be substituted for a permitted wall sign
upon determination by the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review
Commission of a hardship warranting such sign, provided that such
sign is in compliance with all of the requirements of this chapter
and such sign:
a.
Maintains a clearance of at least 13 feet above grade where there
will be vehicular traffic beneath it or maintains a clearance of 10
feet above grade where there will be pedestrian traffic beneath it.
b.
Is painted or is of the same material as the awning or canopy when
the sign is applied to cloth or similar material.
c.
Is not internally illuminated.
6.
The limitation as to the number of signs shall not include window
signs, directional signs, signs directly facing the ordering area
at a drive-through restaurant, or monument or ground signs that identify
a shopping center, business, park, or multitenant development.
D.
Standards and requirements by sign type. The standards and requirements are provided by sign type as follows. However, signs located within the Watson Road Overlay Area shall be subject to the development standards of Article IV (Zoning Districts and Use Standards), § 26-18 (Watson Road Overlay Area) of this chapter in addition to any applicable regulations for the sign type as listed below:
1.
Seasonal signs and displays. Decorations and displays shall be permitted,
subject to the following requirements:
2.
Banner signs. Banner signs outside of a building are prohibited except
for the following:
a.
Temporary promotional banners as provided in § 26-33 (Design and location standards), Subsection D3 (Standards and requirements by sign types; Temporary signs);
3.
Temporary signs.
a.
Temporary ground signs advertising or announcing a future commercial
or industrial development of the property on which such signs are
located may be maintained subject to the provisions of this chapter,
provided that such signs do not exceed 100 square feet in area or
remain longer than six months.
b.
Temporary ground signs shall be located so that no part of the sign
projects within a five-foot setback line from the street right-of-way.
c.
Temporary banner signs used outside a building shall be permitted at the discretion of the Director of Public Services. Such banner signs, if approved, shall be permitted in addition to the quantity allowed under § 26-33 (Design and location standards), Subsection C (Quantity of signs per business), for a period of up to 30 days.
d.
Temporary banner signs used outside a building regarding promotional events shall be permitted at the discretion of the Director of Public Services. Such banner signs, if approved, shall be allowed in addition to the quantity allowed under § 26-33 (Design and location standards), Subsection C (Quantity of signs per business), and Subsection D (Standards and requirements by sign types), for a period of up to 30 days.
e.
Temporary window signs are permitted for no more than 30 days.
4.
Wall signs. A wall sign shall comply with the following requirements:
a.
A wall sign shall consist of individual letters with faces and returns
of complementary colors. Lettering on all wall signs shall have a
minimum return of four inches to provide a three-dimensional style.
Such sign shall not project beyond the building for a distance of
more than 12 inches and no less than four inches. If illumination
is to be provided, the sign shall be internally illuminated, or backlighted,
so as to prevent glare upon the street or adjacent property.
b.
A wall sign shall be constructed of incombustible materials, except
that moldings and capping may be made of wood. A wall sign shall be
safely and adequately attached to the building. No wall sign shall
cover the doors or windows of a building, or otherwise prevent free
ingress and egress to or from any window, door, or fire escape of
a building.
c.
A wall sign shall not extend downward nearer than eight feet to the
ground.
d.
No wall sign shall extend above the roofline.
e.
A building occupied by a single occupant that is not on a corner
lot may have a wall sign with an area up to 20% of the area of the
front wall of the building on which the sign is to be installed. The
maximum permitted sign area on any one building occupied by a single
user shall not exceed 250 square feet.
f.
A building occupied by a single occupant that is located on a corner
lot may have one wall sign on each street frontage, not exceeding
the size limitations as set forth in Subsection D4e of this section
for each sign.
g.
A building with multiple occupants that is not on a corner lot shall
be permitted to have one wall sign no greater than 150 square feet.
In addition, each occupant who has a separate exterior business entrance
may erect a wall sign which may be 20% of the front wall area of such
business, but not greater than 100 square feet. Such a wall sign may
only be located on the portion of the building directly in front of
the business said sign is advertising.
h.
A building with multiple occupants that is on a corner lot shall
be permitted to have one wall sign no greater than 150 square feet
on each street frontage. In addition, each occupant who has a separate
exterior business entrance located at the corner of the building may
erect one wall sign on each street frontage, of up to 20% of the wall
area facing the street, but not greater than 100 square feet for each
sign. Such a wall sign may only be located on the portion of the building
directly in front of the business said sign is advertising.
i.
Box wall signs are not permitted signs, but can be approved by the
Planning, Zoning and Architectural Review Commission on a case-by-case
basis.
5.
Window signs. All window signage shall comply with the following
requirements:
a.
Painting, decals, or vinyl lettering may be located on the door glass,
provided that the lettering does not cover more than 20% of the door
glass within which the lettering is placed.
b.
The total amount of window signage shall not be greater than 20%
of the total window area.
c.
For multiple occupant buildings, the preceding regulations apply
to each occupant.
6.
Ground sign.
a.
Unless provided otherwise, no ground sign shall be at any point over
10 feet above ground level.
b.
Every ground sign shall be stoutly constructed and anchored in a
secure and substantial manner.
c.
The ends of all such signs shall be at least six feet from any wall
or fence or any obstruction which would prevent a clear passage around.
d.
No ground sign shall exceed 75 square feet for each face. Not more
than one ground sign shall be erected on any one lot or tract of land.
e.
No ground sign when erected on a lot fronting on intersecting streets
shall be erected within 60 feet of the intersection of the streets.
f.
Ground signs shall be located such that no part of the sign projects
beyond a five-foot setback from the street right-of-way.
g.
In the case of a multiple occupant building, one ground sign shall
be permitted.
7.
Pole signs.
a.
Pole signs shall not exceed 100 square feet for each face, including
air space between parts of the sign situated on private property.
b.
The maximum height of any pole sign shall be 2 1/2 times the
largest sign face dimension but not higher than 28 feet. The height
restriction may be waived or modified by the Director of Public Services
if existing signage for an adjacent business would block a proposed
sign.
c.
The pole sign shall be so located that no part of the sign projects
beyond a five-foot setback line from the street right-of-way.
d.
No pole sign shall extend downward nearer than 10 feet to the ground
or pavement.
e.
A pole sign shall be constructed of incombustible material.
f.
Pole signs shall be proportioned so that the ratio of the height-to-width
of the sign face is not less than 1/2:1, or that the ratio of height-to-width
does not exceed 1.33:1.
g.
Double-faced pole signs shall be constructed with parallel faces
having identical size and shape so the back of the sign face is not
visible.
h.
The size of a support pole shall be proportioned and harmonious to
the overall size of the sign. The support pole shall be a color compatible
with the sign face and frame.
i.
A pole sign may include an electronic message center subject to the provisions of § 26-33 (Design and location standards), Subsection D8 (Requirements by sign types; Electronic message centers), of this article. The size of the electronic message center shall be limited to 75% of the area of the primary pole sign, not to exceed 50 square feet.
j.
One pole sign for each building fronting a public street which is
occupied by only one occupant shall be allowed.
k.
In the case of a multi-occupant building, one pole sign shall be
permitted.
8.
Electronic message centers or displays (hereinafter referred to as
"display"). In order to provide for the safe and appropriate use of
electronic message display signs, and the installation of signs containing
such components, the regulations as follows are intended to ensure
that the use of such signs will not have a detrimental effect on the
surrounding area or the public welfare and will be consistent with
the purpose and intent of this article and this chapter. The requirements
for electronic message centers are only applicable to signs installed
after the effective date of this Code section. Existing electronic
message centers which were approved by the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural
Review Commission prior to the effective date of this Code section
are allowed to continue to operate until such time as the sign becomes
nonoperational or is substantially modified.
a.
Electronic message display signs shall be subject to the site plan review and approval process or development plan review process of Article III (Applications and Procedures), § 26-10 (Planned development), or § 26-12 (Major site plan and design review), of this chapter and subject to approval of a conditional use permit in accord with the provisions of Article III (Applications and Procedures), § 26-11 (Conditional use permit), of this chapter.
b.
Modes of operation. The following modes of operation are described
for electronic message signs:
(1)
Static: signs which include no animation or effects simulating
animation.
(2)
Fade: signs where static messages are changed by means of varying
light intensity, where the first message gradually reduces intensity
to the point of not being legible and the subsequent message gradually
increases in intensity to the point of legibility.
(3)
Dissolve: signs where static messages are changed by means of
varying light intensity or pattern, where the first message gradually
appears to dissipate and lose legibility simultaneous to the gradual
appearance and legibility of the subsequent message.
(4)
Traveling: signs where the message is changed by the apparent
horizontal movement of the letters or graphic elements of the message.
(5)
Scrolling: signs where the message is changed by the apparent
vertical movement of the letters or graphic elements of the message.
(6)
Animation/video: signs that incorporate animation elements to
the message display or contain video including such elements that
are repeated or change on a recurring basis.
c.
Standards. The following describes standards for the installation
and use of electronic message display signs:
(1)
Zoning districts. Electronic message display signs shall be permitted in any zoning district subject to meeting the standards and criteria described herein and the requirements of § 26-33(Design and location standards), Subsection D (Standards and requirements by sign type), of this article and as may be applicable to the other requirements for the type of sign in which the electronic message is to be incorporated (i.e., ground, monument, or pole types).
(2)
Message displayed. Electronic message displays may display text,
a graphic, such as a company logo, or a photograph, or a combination
thereof. No scrolling, animation, video, horizontal or vertical traveling,
fade or dissolve of the overall message or within elements of the
overall message display is permitted.
(3)
Transitions. Electronic message display signs shall be operated
in static display mode only, except for transitions between messages
which shall be instantaneous. There shall be no video, animation,
fades, dissolves, traveling, or scrolling between messages.
(4)
Display time. Electronic message display signs shall be permitted
to change their message no more than once every 30 seconds.
(5)
Size. The area of the electronic display panel shall not be
more than 50 square feet in size or 75% of the total area of the sign,
whichever is more restrictive.
(6)
Electronic message displays must be designed and equipped to
immediately freeze the display in one position or discontinue if a
malfunction occurs.
(7)
No sounds can be emitted from an electronic message center.
(8)
Height. The maximum height, as measured from the prevailing
grade to the top of the electronic message display panel on a ground-mounted
sign will be 10 feet, for any pole sign shall be 2 1/2 times
the largest sign face dimension, but not higher than 28 feet.
d.
Hours of operation. Where electronic message display signs may face
residential property in adjacent residential zoning districts, such
displays shall be turned off between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. or by
a time established in conjunction with the conditional use permit
review and approval process.
e.
Sign type. Electronic message display signs may be incorporated into
freestanding (ground or pole) signs.
f.
Number. Only one electronic message display sign shall be allowed
as part of a shopping center sign, and only one such sign shall be
permitted per street frontage for a shopping center. For individual
uses, only one electronic message display sign shall be permitted
on the premises per use.
g.
Distance from residential use. Electronic message display signs shall
not be located within 100 feet of any residence or residential zoning
district as measured from the sign to the property line of the residential
use, provided that this Subsection D8g shall not be applicable to
churches or public schools within residential zoning districts, or
within 100 feet of a residential zoning district.
h.
Distance from other signs. Electronic message display signs must
be spaced a minimum of 150 feet from other electronic message display
signs.
i.
Base
construction material. All electronic message display signs shall
have a sign base consisting of masonry or concrete substructure with
an exterior base consisting of a durable masonry material, or other
material cohesive with the building or primary structure approved
by the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review Commission. Durable
masonry materials allowed on the exterior base shall include stone,
rock, brick, marble, or granite, but shall not include plain concrete.
Materials other than durable masonry may be allowed on the exterior
base upon a finding that such material would be cohesive with the
building or primary structure.
[Added 4-12-2022 by Ord. No. 5257]
j.
Lighting intensity and color. Daytime lighting intensity must automatically
reset to a lower level for nighttime hours. To ensure compliance with
this subsection, the sign must have an automatic brightness control
linked to ambient light levels.
[Relettered 4-12-2022 by Ord. No. 5257]
(1)
Brightness. Electronic message display shall come equipped with
dimming technology that automatically adjusts the display's brightness
based on ambient light conditions and complies with maximum nighttime
brightness levels and may be adjusted to lower levels if, upon determination
by the Director of Public Services, the display is deemed to represent
an adverse impact on adjoining property or a hazard to public safety.
(2)
Electronic message display signs shall not exceed a maximum
illumination of 300 nits or 500 footcandles during nighttime hours
(between dusk and dawn) and a maximum illumination of 5,000 nits or
5,000 footcandles during daylight hours.
(3)
Prior to the issuance of any permit, the owner shall provide
the City with a certification from the sign manufacturer stating that
the sign is capable of complying with the requirements Subsection
D8i(1) and (2) above.
(4)
Video or message displays that contain large background areas
of bright white or other high-intensity colors are prohibited.
(5)
The owner of an electronic message center shall arrange for
an annual certification of the light output standards established
in § 26-33D8i (Electronic message centers or displays; Lighting
intensity and color), above, of this article showing compliance by
an independent contractor and provide said certification to the City
of Crestwood.
k.
Electronic message display signs with under 20 square feet of sign
area, which are ancillary in use, and which are not legible from vehicles
traveling on the right-of-way are exempt from Subsection D8a and c
through I of this section. Such signs may be erected and modified
without an application for site plan review or for a conditional use
permit.
[Relettered and amended4-12-2022 by Ord. No. 5257]
9.
Shopping center signs.
a.
For the purpose of this provision, a "shopping center" shall be a
center having a total leasable area of more than 20,000 square feet.
b.
Any shopping center may erect a monument sign having a maximum height of 25 feet above grade on the property of the shopping center. However, no such sign shall be located within the thirty-foot sight distance triangle of any property corner lot as defined in Article II (Definitions), § 26-5 (Defined terms), of this chapter or within a similar area at the intersection of any property entry drive intersection with a public street that may obstruct the view for vehicles exiting the shopping center. Such sign may be composed of stone, masonry, plastic masonry, or such other materials as are deemed consistent with the shopping center improvements, on which individual signs may be placed in accordance with the following standards:
(1)
Maximum total sign area of all signs: 200 square feet. This
provision may be modified by the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural
Review Commission.
(2)
The size of all letters shall be proportionate or harmonious
in size to the overall area of each sign.
(3)
The background of each sign shall be compatible with the background
of all other signs on the monument.
(4)
The total area of all of the signs located on such monument
shall not exceed 75% of the total area of the monument. In making
such determination, the area of each sign shall be calculated on the
basis of the total area of the background of each sign.
10.
Office building signs.
a.
For the purpose of this provision, an "office building" shall be
any building where more than 50% of the building's leasable space
is occupied for office usage.
b.
Any building qualifying as an office building hereunder may erect
a monument sign having a maximum height of 15 feet above grade on
the property of the office building, but in no case shall the sign
be higher than the roofline, and shall be so located as not to obstruct
the view for exiting the office building, and composed of stone, masonry,
plastic masonry, or such other materials as are deemed consistent
with the office building improvements, on which individual signs may
be placed in accordance with the following standards:
(1)
Maximum total sign area of all signs: 150 square feet.
(2)
The background of each sign shall be compatible with the background
of all other signs on the monument.
(3)
The total area of all of the signs located on such monument
shall not exceed 75% of the total area of the monument. In making
such determination, the area of each sign shall be calculated on the
basis of the total area of the background of each sign.
11.
Residential subdivision signs. For each residential subdivision entry
street, a residential subdivision sign may be installed by a subdivision
governing body and or subdivision residents, subject to the following
regulations:
a.
Any such sign shall be a ground sign, as defined in § 26-33 (Design standards and locations), Subsection D6 (Standards and requirements by sign types; Ground signs), and shall not exceed 25 square feet in area, excluding any supports in the case of a ground sign.
b.
Any such sign may be a light standard sign, as defined in § 26-33 (Design standards and locations), Subsection D6 (Standards and requirements by sign types; light standard sign), and shall not exceed six square feet in area. A light fixture is not required.
d.
Submission of plans. The plan for any proposed residential subdivision
identification sign shall be submitted to the Director of Public Services,
who may impose such specifications, as deemed necessary, for safety
purposes prior to granting approval.
e.
Location and placement. Any such sign shall be located on private
property.
12.
Billboards near highways in industrially or commercially zoned areas. Billboards shall be subject to the approval of a conditional use permit in accord with the provisions of Article III (Applications and Procedures), § 26-11 (Conditional use permit), of this chapter. Billboards shall only be located in industrially or commercially zoned areas within 660 feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way and visible from any part of the traveled way of a highway which is a part of the interstate or primary system in this state, subject to the following regulations or any superseding regulations of the Code of State Regulations for the Missouri Department of Transportation, Title 7, Division 10, Chapter 6:
a.
Size. The maximum sign area for any one billboard shall be 1,200
square feet with a maximum height of 30 feet above preexisting grade
and a maximum length of 60 feet. Maximum size limitations shall apply
to each side of a billboard.
b.
Lighting.
(2)
No revolving or rotating beam or beacon of light that simulates
any emergency light or device shall be permitted as part of any billboard.
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 that the light source is directed
solely upon the face of the sign and is effectively shielded so as
to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed into any portion
of the main traveled way or onto adjacent property, 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 the
driver's operation of a motor vehicle.
(4)
No sign shall be so illuminated that it interferes with the
effectiveness of, or obscures an official traffic sign, device, or
signal.
c.
Spacing.
(1)
On interstate highways and freeways on the federal aid primary
system, no billboard shall be erected within 1,500 feet of an existing
billboard on the same side of the highway.
(2)
On non-freeway federal-aid primary highways, no billboard shall
be erected within 100 feet of an existing sign or billboard.
(3)
No billboard shall be located in such manner as to obstruct
or otherwise physically or visually interfere with the effectiveness
of an official traffic sign, including directional signs, signals
or devices, or obstruct or physically interfere with a motor vehicle
operator's view of approaching, merging, or intersecting traffic.
d.
Location. To provide a safety zone and to prevent injury or property
damage to residentially zoned properties resulting from billboard
collapse, no portion of a billboard shall be located within 250 feet
of any residentially zoned property.
e.
Other regulations. All other provisions of this chapter relating
to the design and construction of signs and permit requirements shall
apply equally to billboards authorized under this section.
13.
Special event signage.
a.
b.
The Director of Public Services must approve all proposed signage
prior to the event.
14.
Bus shelter signage. Signs shall be permitted on bus shelters within
the City upon the approval of the Director of Public Services. The
size of the signage shall be limited to a cumulative 24 square feet.
A permit for each sign shall be required.
15.
Reader board signs.
a.
Manual reader board signs shall not be permitted for use except by
churches, schools, libraries, governmental agencies, and civic organizations.
b.
Manual reader board signs shall not exceed 40 square feet in area.
c.
Movie theater signs require the approval of the Planning, Zoning,
and Architectural Review Commission.
16.
Portable signs.
a.
Portable signs are prohibited except vehicles that are used in the
normal day-to-day operation of the business may have a sign attached
or painted on such vehicle identifying the name, address, and type
of business.
b.
A business may park up to two vehicles of the light delivery type
(rated less than one ton manufacturer's rated hauling capacity) containing
such signage in front of the business identified on the vehicle. Additional
vehicles may be approved by the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural
Review Commission.
c.
A- or T- frame signs, menu or sandwich board signs, balloons, or
umbrellas placed no closer than five feet from the right-of-way line
and in such a way that not they do not impede pedestrian traffic.
Such signs may also be held or worn. Such signs can only be in place
or in use from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday through Saturday.
17.
Projecting signs. A projecting sign shall comply with the following
requirements:
a.
A projecting sign not exceeding 25 square feet in area for each building
fronting a public street shall be allowed, provided that, if a building
is occupied by only one user and the front wall area adjoining the
public street on which the building is located exceeds 500 square
feet, such building may have a projecting sign with an area equal
to 10% of the area of the front wall of the building but shall not
exceed 250 square feet.
b.
A building located on a corner lot may have one projecting sign on
each street side of the building, but not exceeding the size limitations
as set forth in Subsection D17a of this section for each sign.
c.
No projecting sign shall extend more than four feet six inches from
the building, including structural supporting or extending members
attached to the building.
d.
No projecting sign shall project nearer to the curbline than two
feet.
e.
No projecting sign shall extend downward nearer than 10 feet to the
ground or pavement.
f.
No projecting sign shall extend above the roofline.
g.
Every projecting sign shall be constructed of noncombustible material
and braced to withstand a horizontal wind pressure of not less than
30 pounds for every square foot of surface exposed and shall be securely
attached to the building wall in an approved manner.
18.
Directional signs. Small post signs indicating the direction to a
business (exit and entrance) may be erected and maintained subject
to the following:
a.
The Director of Public Services shall investigate and make a determination
that the sign will serve a public purpose.
b.
Such sign shall not exceed eight square feet in area and shall be
installed in a manner and at a height so as not to interfere with
the safe, ordinary and lawful use of the main traveled way.
19.
Marquees; marquee signs.
a.
Marquees and marquee signs may extend to a point two feet back of
the curbline, but no such marquee or marquee sign shall extend downward
nearer than 11 feet above the level of the sidewalk at its lowest
level.
b.
An illuminated sign which may be placed on a marquee which may extend
the entire length and width of the marquee, provided that such sign
does not extend more than nine feet above nor one foot below such
marquee, but under no circumstances shall the sign or signs have a
vertical height greater than nine feet.
c.
No additional sign shall be attached to a marquee.
20.
Under-canopy signs.
a.
Any under-canopy sign shall not exceed four square feet in area.
b.
No under-canopy sign shall project horizontally beyond the canopy
or nearer to the curbline than two feet.
c.
No under-canopy sign shall extend downward nearer than 10 feet to
the ground or pavement.
d.
Every under-canopy sign shall be constructed of noncombustible material
and shall be securely attached to the canopy in an approved manner.
21.
22.
Vintage signs. Vintage signs shall be determined as such by the Planning,
Zoning, and Architectural Review Commission. Traditionally, vintage
signs are nonconforming signs that can represent important elements
of Crestwood's heritage and enhance the character of a corridor, neighborhood,
or the community at large and should be preserved.
a.
Purpose of vintage sign regulations.
(1)
Provide for the preservation of Crestwood's unique character,
history, and identity, as reflected in its historic and iconic signs;
(2)
Preserve the sense of place that existed within the central
business district and in areas of the City with a concentration of
surviving historic signs;
(3)
Protect the community from inappropriate reuse of nonconforming
and/or illegal signs while ensuring that the signs are safe and well
maintained;
(4)
Allow the owner the flexibility to preserve historic and vintage
signs. This classification does not preclude owners from removing
these signs.
b.
Criteria for identifying vintage signs.
(1)
The Planning Commission shall designate an existing sign as
a vintage sign if the sign:
(a)
Has not been granted flexibility from the base
zoning through a variance, modification, or planned development agreement;
(b)
Is not a billboard as defined in § 26-33 (Design and location standards), Subsection D12 (Billboards);
(c)
Is structurally safe or can be made safe without
substantially altering its historical appearance
(d)
Retains its original design character, or that
character will be restored, based on historic evidence, such as drawings
or photographs; and
(e)
If the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review
Commission determines that the sign meets at least four of the following
criteria:
(i)
The sign was specifically designed for a business,
institution, or other establishment on the site where the sign is
located;
(ii)
The sign is unique to the City or region;
(iii)
The sign exhibits specific characteristics that
enhance the streetscape or identity of a neighborhood;
(iv)
The sign is characteristic of a specific historic
period;
(v)
The sign is integral to the design or identity
of the site or building where the sign is located;
(vi)
The sign represents an example of craftsmanship
in the application of lighting technique, use of materials, or design;
(vii)
The sign was installed at least 40 years prior
to the date of applications;
(viii)
The sign retains the majority of its character-defining
features (materials, technologies, structure, colors, and/or shapes)
that have historical significance, are integral to the overall sign
design, or convey historical or regional context; and
(ix)
The sign exemplifies the cultural, economic, and
historic heritage of Crestwood.
(2)
A designated vintage sign may:
(a)
Be relocated within its current site;
(b)
Be modified to account for changing uses within
its current site. These modifications shall be in the same style as
the design of the original sign including:
(c)
Be relocated to a new site for use as a piece of
public art, provided that the original design and character of the
sign is retained or will be restored, and it advertises a business
no longer in operation. Vintage signs may only be relocated for use
as public art to sites in the following districts: C-1, M-1, PD-C,
PD-M, PD-MXD, and WROA.
(3)
The Planning, Zoning and Architectural Review Commission may
exempt a vintage sign from the calculation of allowed signage on a
site.
(4)
Signs designated as vintage that are nonconforming as to type,
size, height, or location are exempt from the regulations governing
nonconforming signs. However, changes to a vintage sign may not increase
the nonconformity unless a variance is granted.
(5)
Classification as a vintage sign does not prevent the owner
from demolishing the sign.
[1-12-2021 by Ord. No. 5119]
A.
Permit required. No sign shall be erected, nor the location of any
existing sign changed, until the Director of Public Services has issued
a permit.
1.
An application for a sign permit shall be accompanied by plans and
specifications. The plans and specifications must be drawn to scale
and shall include the dimensions, material, and details of construction
of the proposed sign, together with an accurate colored rendering
of the proposed sign. A site plan of the property and/or building
elevations indicating where the sign(s) is(are) to be located must
also be provided.
2.
Before a permit can be granted for the installation of any sign,
the applicant for said permit must submit evidence of an agreement
signed by the owner or owners of said property granting permission
to the applicant to install said sign and binding said owner or owners,
their heirs and assigns irrevocably to permit the City through its
agents to enter on said real property for the purpose of removing
said sign or signs as provided under the provisions of this chapter,
and waiving and holding the City harmless from any damage to said
real property occasioned by said sign removal.
3.
Vintage signs. In addition to the general application requirements
in this section for a sign permit, an application requesting vintage
sign designation or modification shall require:
a.
Detailed drawings and/or photographs of the sign in its current condition;
b.
Written narrative and supporting documentation demonstrating how
the sign meets the applicable criteria;
c.
Detailed drawings of any modifications being sought;
d.
Detailed drawings of any relocation being sought; and
e.
Historic and current photographs of the sign.
4.
The Director of Public Services may prescribe suitable regulations
not inconsistent with the provisions of this section concerning the
form and content of all applications for the various types of permits
herein required.
B.
Permit fees. A permit is required for the erection of signs.
1.
Before the issuance of each required sign permit, a fee in the amount
established by the Board of Aldermen shall be paid to the City.
2.
For each temporary sign requiring a permit, the fee shall be in the
amount established by the Board of Aldermen.
3.
The provisions of the building code and electrical code of the City
shall govern the construction, alteration, and maintenance of all
signs.
4.
If the sign is illuminated, an electrical permit and inspection by
St. Louis County shall be required.
[1-12-2021 by Ord. No. 5119]
A.
Exemptions. Unless elsewhere specified in this article, the following signs are exempt from the preceding requirements contained in § 26-34 (Permit requirements and exceptions) of this article:
1.
A sign which is not illuminated and, if in a residential district
(R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, or R-5), does not exceed eight square feet in
area, and if in any other district, does not exceed 32 square feet.
Only one such sign may be placed on the lot or premises except that
two such signs may be placed on double frontage lots. One additional
sign is permitted on residential properties for a period of no more
than 24 hours;
2.
Temporary signs not over 25 square feet for nonresidential uses in
a residential district (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, or R-5);
3.
One additional sign consistent with the requirements of Subsection
A1 above, per street frontage if a construction project is underway
or has been completed within the last 14 days on the lot or premises
on which the sign is placed. Such signs may not be illuminated signs
and may not exceed 16 square feet in surface area in residential districts,
or 32 square feet in surface area in commercial districts;
4.
Traffic or other municipal signs, and any signs required by federal,
state, or local law, court order or legal process;
5.
Yard signs.
a.
Yard signs shall not exceed 25 square feet, and there may be no more
than one of the same sign per street frontage. Additional ground signs
are permitted under this subsection during an election season; however,
two or more identical signs are not permitted Any additional sign
permitted during an election season, which is not removed after the
end of an election season, shall be considered a prohibited sign.
b.
A yard sign may be placed on City property used as a polling place;
the signs are only allowed from 8:00 p.m. on the day prior to the
vote until 7:00 a.m. of the day following the vote. Signs placed on
City property outside of these times will be promptly removed.
6.
Professional nameplates not exceeding three square feet in area;
7.
Window signs;
8.
Occupational signs not over four square feet in area (on building);
and
9.
Signs erected inside a building.
B.
Signs and devices prohibited. The following signs and devices are
prohibited in the City:
1.
Conflicting signs. Signs or devices, which by color, location, or
design resemble or conflict with traffic control signs or devices;
2.
Exterior use of advertising devices, such as: pennants affixed on poles, wires, or ropes, streamers, wind-operated devices, inflatables, searchlights, flashing lights, and any other type of fluttering devices, except flags, as defined in § 26-32 (Definitions), shall not be prohibited by this subsection.
3.
Letters or pictures in the form of advertising printed or applied
directly on the wall of a building;
4.
Paper posters and painted signs applied directly to the wall of a building or pole or other support, except for signage approved by the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review Commission as set forth in § 26-35 (Exemptions and prohibitions), Subsection C (Signs and devices requiring approval of the Planning Commission), of this article;
5.
Signs painted on the inside or outside of windows, not including
etched glass;
6.
Signs advertising an article or product not manufactured, assembled,
processed, repaired, or sold upon the premises upon which the sign
is located, unless otherwise permitted by ordinance;
7.
Signs advertising a service not rendered on the premises upon which
the sign is located, unless otherwise permitted by ordinance;
8.
Revolving signs of any type;
9.
Signs in residential districts, except as otherwise permitted herein;
10.
Signs with more than two faces;
11.
Roof signs;
12.
Banners, pennants, or flags suspended from an awning;
13.
Exterior banner signs, except as provided in § 26-33D2
(Standards and requirements by sign type; Banner signs);
14.
Signs placed in such a way as to create a traffic hazard;
15.
Portable signs, except as provided in § 26-33D15 (Standards
and requirements by sign type; Reader board signs);
16.
Signs that display obscene, indecent, or immoral matters as defined
in Section 573.010, RSMo., as amended;
17.
Signs erected or maintained in such a manner that prevents free ingress
to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape. No sign of any
kind shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape;
18.
Ground or wall signs lighted with gooseneck or other types of external
reflectors erected and maintained in a manner that creates glare upon
the street, access drives, adjacent property, or may impact the vision
of pedestrians on adjacent sidewalks;
19.
Signs with exposed raceways; and
20.
Post and panel signs.
C.
Signs and devices requiring approval of the Planning Commission.
The following signs and devices require approval of the Planning Commission
prior to receiving a permit:
1.
Box signs used as wall signs.
2.
Signs on parking lot light standards.
3.
Marquee signs.
4.
Signs containing flashers, animators, or mechanical movement or contrivances
of any kind.
5.
Professionally painted signs on sheet metal and affixed to the wall,
but limited to the rear of commercial businesses whose property is
adjacent to Grant's Trail. Such signs, if approved by Planning, Zoning,
and Architectural Review Commission, cannot exceed 50 square feet
in size.
6.
Vintage signs.
[1-12-2021 by Ord. No. 5119]
A.
Maintenance. All signs shall be maintained in good repair.
1.
Signs and their related support structures must be free of rust,
peeling, flaking, fading, broken or cracked surfaces, and broken or
missing letters. Every supporting structure shall be kept in an upright
condition. Electronic message centers or displays shall have properly
functioning electronic components.
2.
Where upon inspection by the Director of Public Services, or their
designee, it has been determined that any sign requires maintenance
or repair, written notice to the owner, the tenant, and/or the managing
agent of the property on which any such sign is located shall be given
by the Director of Public Services. The property owner, tenant, and/or
managing agent of the property shall be provided with a period of
30 days in which to correct the condition. The Director of Public
Services shall have the ability to grant, in writing, an extension
of not more than 30 days.
B.
Removal. Signs are subject to removal in accord with the provisions
and procedures as follows:
1.
2.
The Director of Public Services, or their designee, shall give written
notice to the owner or the managing agent of the property on which
any such sign is located, directing its removal within seven days
and informing such owner or managing agent that, if the sign is not
removed within such designated period, the Director of Public Services,
or his/her designee, shall cause it to be removed and the costs charged
as a special tax bill. If the sign is not timely removed, the Director
of Public Services, or his/her designee, shall file a property lien
with St. Louis County, cause the same to be removed and certify the
costs to the City Clerk and Code Enforcement Officer. The Code Enforcement
Officer shall file a property lien with St. Louis County against the
property, Any such tax bill, if not paid, shall bear interest at the
rate of the prime rate plus 1%.
3.
The City, and any of its officials, is authorized to go upon any
premises for the purpose of removal of any sign under the provisions
hereof. Signs so removed shall be retained by the City for a period
of 30 days and, if payment of all expenses of the City in connection
with such removal are paid within such period, shall be returned to
the owner. If not so claimed within such period of time, the City
may dispose of such sign in any manner, by destroying, or selling
same.
4.
In addition to the procedures herein authorized, any person failing
to remove any such sign upon notification to do so shall, upon conviction,
be subject to the penalties provided for violation of City ordinances.
[1-12-2021 by Ord. No. 5119]
A.
Appeals.
1.
Any person whose application for a permit for a sign has been denied
may file an appeal with, and seek a sign variance from, the Planning,
Zoning, and Architectural Review Commission. An application for a
sign variance shall be accompanied by a filing fee in an amount established
by the Board of Aldermen. The Planning, Zoning, and Architectural
Review Commission may not grant a sign variance unless it finds that
the granting of such a sign variance will alleviate a hardship or
difficulty, that such hardship or difficulty is of such substance
and magnitude as to warrant such a sign variance, that the public
interest is secured and that the spirit of the sign code is observed.
The Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review Commission may impose
such conditions, as it deems necessary to safeguard surrounding property
and to prevent a misuse of the sign variance. Any person whose request
for a sign variance has been denied by the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural
Review Commission may seek a review of such denial by the Board of
Aldermen by filing a written request for review with the City Clerk
within 15 days of receipt of notification of denial from the Department
of Public Works. The same standards for granting a sign variance by
the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review Commission shall apply
for review by the Board of Aldermen. Five affirmative votes shall
be required for the Board of Aldermen to approve a sign variance.
2.
Any person aggrieved by the approval of any permit by the enforcement
official may appeal to the Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review
Commission when it is alleged that such permit violates any provision
of the sign code. The Planning, Zoning, and Architectural Review Commission
may revoke such permit upon a finding that such sign does not comply
with all of the requirements of the sign code.
B.
Limitations on sign variances. Variances shall only be granted for
the size, location, and number of signs. Variances will not be granted
for prohibited signs.
