[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
The City recognizes that signs are a necessary means of visual communication for the public convenience and that uses and activities have the right to identify themselves by using signs that are accessory and incidental to the use on the property where the signs are located. The purpose of this Article is to:
1. 
Minimize incompatibility between signs and their surroundings;
2. 
Provide for signs within reasonable limitations, consistent with the goals and objectives of the community, to retain the special character and economic advantages that rest largely on the quality of the community's appearance;
3. 
Protect the public from hazardous conditions by prohibiting signs that are structurally unsafe or obscure, distract the vision of motorists, or compete or conflict with necessary traffic signs and warning signals;
4. 
Eliminate hazards caused by the size and placement of signs and reduce the possibility of injuries to those coming near or under signs;
5. 
Promote the health, safety and public welfare of the City, its residents and its visitors;
6. 
Regulate signs in accordance with the City's policies and with the U.S. and Missouri Constitutions; and
7. 
Protect the right to free speech by the display of messages on signs through content-neutral regulations.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
The requirements of this Article apply to all signs and support structures located within the City. The following are signs and messaging that are not regulated by this Article including any requirements for sign permits:
1. 
Sign Activities.
a. 
The ordinary preventative maintenance of a lawfully existing sign that does not involve a change of placement, size, lighting, or height.
b. 
The repainting of a lawfully existing sign.
c. 
The changing of copy of lawfully existing changeable copy signs.
2. 
Address Numbers.
a. 
For the purpose of safety services locating a property, a sign denoting the number and street address of the premises is permitted, provided that such sign complies with the applicable Building and Fire Codes.
3. 
Directional Signs.
a. 
On-premises signs directing and guiding traffic on private property that do not exceed four (4) square feet each and that bear no advertising matter.
4. 
Flags.
a. 
Flags that do not contain a commercial message.
5. 
Fuel Pumps, ATMs and Shopping Cart Corrals.
a. 
Signs located on fuel pumps, ATMs, shopping cart corrals, or similar structures.
6. 
Integral Signs.
a. 
Any inscription carved into stone or similar material that is integral to a building, such as those commonly found on cornerstones, stamped into sidewalks, or identified by plaques or tables.
7. 
Interior Signs.
a. 
Any sign located inside a building.
b. 
Signs located within facilities for public assembly, such as parks, stadiums, open-air theaters, and arenas, which are not visible from a public right-of-way or adjacent property and can be viewed only by persons within such facility.
8. 
Minor Noncommercial Message Signs.
a. 
Signs not exceeding two (2) square feet in area that do not contain a commercial message.
9. 
Patio Signs.
a. 
Any sign located on umbrellas or similarly related private patio furniture or seating.
10. 
Public Art.
a. 
Any works of art that do not contain a commercial message.
11. 
Public Signs.
a. 
Signs installed or required by the public utility providers, the City, St. Charles County, or any agency of the State of Missouri or Federal government.
12. 
Seasonal Decorations.
a. 
Any lighting, signs, or related decorations erected on a seasonal basis in observance of religious, national, or state holidays that are not intended to be permanent in nature and which do not contain a commercial message.
13. 
Vehicle Signs.
a. 
Signs painted on or otherwise attached to currently licensed motor vehicles that are not primarily used as signs.
14. 
Way-Finding Signs.
a. 
In accordance with Chapter 511, Article V, Way-Finding Signs, of the Municipal Code.
15. 
Window Signs.
a. 
Signs affixed to or painted on the glass of an exterior door or window or located inside a building.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Savings And Severability.
1. 
If any clause, section, or other provision of the application of this Article shall be held by any court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or invalid, such clause, subsection, or other part of the application of this Article shall be considered eliminated and not affecting the validity of the remaining clauses, sections, or applications remaining in full force and effect.
B. 
Administration And Interpretation.
1. 
This Article shall be administered and enforced by the Community Development Director.
2. 
Literal readings of the Code language will be used.
3. 
Regulations are no more or less strict than as stated.
4. 
Application of the regulations that are consistent with the rules of this Article are nondiscretionary actions to implement the requirements of this Article.
5. 
This Article shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with the First Amendment guarantee of free speech.
6. 
Where this Article is silent, or where the rules of this Article do not provide a basis for concluding that a sign is allowed, said sign is therefore prohibited.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Except as provided for in Section 425.470, Applicability, or where otherwise expressly stated, Table 425.540.A, Summary of Permanent Sign Standards, and Table 425.540.B, Summary of Temporary Sign Standards, establish all permitted sign types and establish where a sign permit is required for individual signs in accordance with Section 405.200, Sign Permit.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
The following types of signs are specifically prohibited:
1. 
General.
a. 
Any sign not specifically allowed by this Article.
2. 
Attention-Grabbing Devices.
a. 
Windblown devices, not including projecting signs.
b. 
Flashing, intermittent, or moving signs that flash or move more than once every three (3) seconds, blinker, racer type, animated, whirligig devices, and other similar types of attention-grabbing devices.
c. 
Beacons, spotlights, and searchlights, except for emergency purposes;
d. 
Pennants, ribbons, or streamers.
e. 
Portable signs, not including A-frame or T-frame sidewalk signs as allowed in this Chapter.
f. 
Balloon signs or air-activated signs.
3. 
Location.
a. 
Signs which are not securely affixed to the ground or otherwise affixed in a permanent manner to an approved supporting structure unless specifically permitted as a temporary sign.
b. 
Signs that are applied to trees, utility poles, benches, trash receptacles, newspaper vending machines or boxes, or any other unapproved supporting structure.
c. 
Signs placed on any surface located on, over, or across any right-of-way shall be prohibited unless otherwise permitted by this Article or authorized by the Public Works Director.
d. 
Signs that obstruct or substantially interfere with any window, door, fire escape, stairway, ladder, or opening intended to provide light, air, ingress, or egress to any building.
4. 
Public Safety.
a. 
Any sign that copies or imitates a sign installed by a government agency for official purposes.
5. 
Vehicles.
a. 
Signs with a commercial message that are painted on or attached to a stationary vehicle or trailer which is located in such a manner as to serve exclusively as permanent, temporary, or portable signage.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Sign Area.
1. 
The sign area is the entire face of a sign, including the advertising surface and any framing, trim, or molding but not including the supporting structure.
2. 
Signs Enclosed In Frames Or Cabinets.
a. 
The area of a sign enclosed in frames or cabinets is determined based on the outer dimensions of the frame or cabinet surrounding the sign face.
Figure 425.520.A.2
Sign Area - Signs Enclosed in Frames or Cabinets
3. 
Individual Letters Or Elements.
a. 
The area of a sign comprised of individual letters or elements attached to a building wall is determined by calculating the area of the smallest square or rectangle that can be drawn around the letters and/or elements. Signs consisting of individual letters and/or elements will be measured as one (1) sign when the distance between the letters and/or elements is less than two (2) times the dimension of each letter and/or element.
Figure 425.520.A.3
Sign Area - Individual Letters or Elements
4. 
Back-To-Back Signs.
a. 
Projecting, suspended, and freestanding signs may be back-to-back with two (2) sign faces, and each face may have an area not to exceed the maximum stated for each respective sign type.
B. 
Building Facade Area.
1. 
The building facade area is the entire surface area of the facade where a sign is located or is proposed to be located, including building walls, doors, windows, recessed and projecting areas, and all other features.
Figure 425.520.B
Building Facade Area
2. 
The calculation shall be based on viewing the facade from a ninety-degree angle (i.e., straight on), regardless of facade insets, offsets, or angles.
3. 
For single-tenant buildings and multi-tenant buildings with a shared entrance, the facade length is measured between two (2) side facades.
4. 
For multi-tenant buildings with separate entrances for each tenant, the facade length is measured from the individual tenant's party wall to the opposite party wall or the side facade, if applicable.
5. 
The facade height is measured from the ground to the top edge or roofline of a building with a flat roof, the eave line of a building with a gambrel, gable or hip roof, or the deckline of a building with a mansard roof.
C. 
Sign Height.
1. 
Sign height shall be determined by calculating the vertical distance between the lowest elevation of the ground abutting the sign and the level of the highest point of the sign.
D. 
Sign Clearance.
1. 
Clearance is measured from the highest point of the ground directly below the sign to the lowest point on the sign structure enclosing the sign face.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Safety.
1. 
No sign permitted by this Article shall be placed or erected so as to prevent ready access to any window, door, passageway or fire escape, nor shall any sign be placed on private property in such a manner as specified in this Code so as to constitute a hazard to motor vehicles and pedestrian traffic or obscure the view of motor vehicle operators or pedestrians.
2. 
No sign may be erected so that by its location, color, size, shape, nature or message it would tend to obstruct the view of or to be confused with official traffic signs or other signs erected by governmental agencies.
3. 
No sign may be located so that it substantially interferes with the view necessary for motorists to proceed safely through intersections or to enter onto or exit from public or private streets, roads or parking lots.
B. 
Clearance.
1. 
The lowest point of a sign that extends over an area intended for pedestrian use shall be at least eight (8) feet above the finished grade below it. The lowest point of a sign that extends over an area intended for vehicular use shall be at least fourteen (14) feet above the finished grade below it.
C. 
Materials.
1. 
Permanent signs shall be constructed of durable materials and installed to comply with applicable City Codes. Permanent signs shall not be made of paper, cloth, canvas (except for awning and canopy signs), cardboard, wallboard, or other similar nondurable materials.
2. 
Permanent signs shall be securely fastened to the ground or to some other substantial supportive structure so that there is virtually no danger that either the sign or the supportive structure may be moved by the wind or other forces of nature and cause injury to persons or property.
3. 
Signs containing unpainted metal or reflective material of any type shall be prohibited.
4. 
All visible structural components of signs (excluding the sign face) shall be constructed of natural materials that blend with the natural environment or are compatible (however, not necessarily identical) in color and texture with the adjoining buildings or shall be painted a neutral or compatible color that is compatible with adjoining buildings and/or the natural environment.
D. 
Illumination.
1. 
Unless otherwise prohibited by this Article, signs may be illuminated in accordance with the following:
a. 
Lighting directed toward a sign shall be shielded so that it illuminates only the face of the sign and does not shine directly onto surrounding areas.
b. 
Illumination on the surface of an illuminated sign, measured at the brightest point ten (10) feet from the surface of the sign, shall not exceed five (5) foot-candles.
c. 
No illumination source shall create a traffic hazard or distraction to operators of motor vehicles.
d. 
No sign may contain or be illuminated by flashing or intermittent lights or lights of changing degrees of intensity.
e. 
Illumination of electronic message signs shall comply with Section 425.550(C)(4), Electronic Message Center.
E. 
Sign Setbacks.
1. 
Freestanding signs shall be set back from the property lines in accordance with Table 425.540.A, Summary of Permanent Sign Standards, and Table 425.540.B, Summary of Temporary Sign Standards.
2. 
Attached signs are not subject to setback requirements.
3. 
Any signs located at intersections of streets and driveways shall comply with Section 425.080, Visibility At Intersections.
F. 
Sign Projections.
1. 
No sign attached to a building may project more than twelve (12) inches from the building wall, unless specifically outlined in this Article.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Table 425.540.A, Summary of Permanent Sign Standards, establishes the allowed permanent sign types and standards. Permanent signs are subject to additional standards in Section 425.550, Additional Standards for Permanent Signs.
Table 425.540.A
Summary of Permanent Sign Standards
Key: P = Permitted, — = Not Permitted
Sign Type
Sign Permit Required
RR-R4
R5-R6
MU
CO
C1
C2
LI
PA
Number of Signs, Maximum
Sign Area, Maximum Per Face
Sign Height, Maximum
Sign Location
Additional Standards
Permanent - On-Premises - Attached
Awning or canopy
Yes
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
1 per awning or canopy
30% of the awning or canopy surface area
Maximum building height in the applicable zoning district
Flush to the sides or front of an awning or canopy, or hung beneath a canopy
Sections 425.550(B)(1) and 425.550(B)(2)
Projecting
Yes
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
1 per building entrance
10 square feet
Maximum building height in the applicable zoning district
Below the roofline
Section 425.550(B)(1)
Roof
Yes
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
No maximum
The combined sign area of all roof and wall signs shall not exceed 6% of the building facade area.
Maximum building height in the applicable zoning district
On roofs not more than 6 feet above the lowest point of the roof, and not extending above a parapet wall or above the roof's major ridgeline
Sections 425.550(B)(1) and 425.550(B)(4)
Suspended
Yes
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
1 per building entrance
4 square feet
Maximum building height in the applicable zoning district
Shall not project beyond the limits of the awning or canopy to which it is attached
12 feet from other suspended signs
Sections 425.550(B)(1) and 425.550(B)(5)
Wall
Yes
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
No maximum
The combined sign area of all roof and wall signs shall not exceed 6% of the building facade area.
Maximum building height in the applicable zoning district
On walls, parapets, or gasoline station canopies
Sections 425.550(B)(1) and 425.550(B)(6)
Permanent - On-Premises - Freestanding
Changeable copy
Yes
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
P
Only allowed as part of a monument sign
40 square feet
6 feet
10 feet from lot lines
Sections 425.550(C)(1) and 425.550(C)(3)
Drive-through
Yes
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
2 per drive-through lane
36 square feet per sign, 72 square feet total
7 feet
10 feet from lot lines; adjacent to drive-through lane(s) in side and rear yards
Sections 425.550(C)(1) and 425.550(C)(3)
Electronic message center
Yes
—
—
—
—
P
P
—
P
Only allowed as part of a monument sign
35% of the monument sign area, not to exceed 32 square feet
6 feet
10 feet from lot lines
Sections 425.550(C)(1) and 425.550(C)(4)
Monument
Yes
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
MU, CO, C1, C2, LI, PA: 1 per street frontage
RR-R6: 2 per vehicular entrance to the subdivision or multi-unit development
100 square feet
10 feet
10 feet from lot lines
Sections 425.550(C)(1) and 425.550(C)(5)
Pole
Yes
—
—
—
—
P
P
—
—
1 per lot
C1: 120 square feet
C2: 200 square feet
C1: 20 feet
C2: 35 feet
15 feet from lot lines
Sections 425.550(C)(1) and 425.550(C)(2)
Permanent - Off-Premises - Freestanding
Billboard
Yes
—
—
—
P
P
P
P
—
See Section 425.550(D)(1)
See Section 425.550(D)(1)
See Section 425.550(D)(1)
See Section 425.550(D)(1)
Section 425.550(D)(1)
B. 
Table 425.540.B, Summary of Temporary Sign Standards, establishes the allowed temporary sign types and standards. Temporary signs are subject to additional standards in Section 425.560, Additional Standards for Temporary Signs.
Table 425.540.B
Summary of Temporary Sign Standards
Key: P = Permitted
Sign Types
Qualifications
Sign Permit Required
Right-of-Way
RR-R4
R5- R6
MU
CO
C1
C2
LI
PA
Sign Area, Maxi-mum
(square feet)
Number of Signs, Maximum
Sign Height, Maximum
(feet)
Sign Location
Duration
Additional Standards
On-Premises - Commercial Message - Attached or Freestanding
Banner
—
Yes
—
—
P Multi-unit build-ings only
P
P
P
P
P
P
32
1 per street frontage or 1 per non-residential tenant and no more than 3 per property at 1 time
5 (free-standing)
10 feet from property lines
45 days per year, not to exceed 14 consecutive days at a time; or up to 60 consecutive days for a new use or change in non-residential use
Sections 425.560(A), and 425.560(C)(1)
On-Premises - Commercial Message - Freestanding
Sidewalk
—
No
—
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
8
1 per tenant
4
See Section 425.570(C)(2)
No limit
Sections 425.560(A), and 425.560(C)(2)
Yard
Properties for sale or lease
No
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Residential zoning districts: 6
Mixed-use and non-residential zoning districts: 32
1 per street frontage
5 in residential zoning districts
8 in mixed-use and non-residential zoning districts
10 feet from property lines
No limit
Sections 425.560(A), and 425.560(C)(3)
Yard
Properties with an active grading or building permit
No
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
32
1 per street frontage
8
10 feet from property lines or attached to a con-struction fence
No limit
Sections 425.560(A), and 425.560(C)(3)
Yard
New residential development with an active sales or leasing office
No
—
P
P
P
—
—
—
—
—
64
1 per street frontage
8
—
No limit, except develop-ments with permanent leasing offices shall remove all such signs upon the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Sections 425.560(A), 425.560(B), and 425.560(C)(3)
Yard
New residential development with an active sales or leasing office
No
—
P
P
P
—
—
—
—
—
32
2 per sales center
5
On the same property as the sales or leasing office
No limit, except develop-ments with permanent leasing offices shall remove all such signs upon the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Sections 425.560(A), 425.560(B), and 425.560(C)(3)
Yard
New residential development with an active sales or leasing office
No
—
P
P
P
—
—
—
—
—
18
2 per every 25 lots or units
5
At least 250 linear feet from the entrance and may not be oriented to traffic on abutting publicly accepted roads
No limit, except develop-ments with permanent leasing offices shall remove all such signs upon the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Sections 425.560(A), 425.560(B), and 425.560(C)(3)
On-Premises - Noncommercial Message - Attached or Freestanding
Banner or yard
—
No
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Mixed-use and non-residential zoning districts and multi-unit uses: 32
All other zoning districts and uses: 6
No limit
5 (freestanding)
10 feet from property lines
No limit
Sections 425.560(A), 425.560(C)(1) and 425.560(C)(3)
Off-Premises - Noncommercial Message - Freestanding
Banner
—
Yes
P
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
32
1 per location, 5 per activity or event
5
10 feet from property lines on City-owned property; or within right-of-way adjacent to non-residential zoning districts
10 consecutive days
Sections 425.560(A), and 425.560(C)(1)
Yard
Directional signs only
No
P
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
3
1 per intersection in any 1 direction; 8 per activity or event
3
Right-of-way
Not more than 1 day before and 1 day after an activity or event, 3 consecutive days maximum
Sections 425.560(A), and 425.560(C)(3)
Yard
New residential development with an active sales or leasing office
Directional signs only
Yes
P
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
See Section 425.560(B) (3)
See Section 425.560(B)(3)
12
See Section 425.560(B) (3)
See Section 425.560(B)(3)
See Section 425.560(B)(3)
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Generally.
1. 
Permanent signs are allowed as indicated in Table 425.540.A, Summary of Permanent Sign Standards, and are subject to the additional standards of this Section.
B. 
On-Premises Signs - Attached.
1. 
Generally.
a. 
Attached signs shall be designed to be consistent and compatible with the building to which the signs are attached, including proportional scale and compatible design, materials, and color.
b. 
Attached signs may be illuminated.
c. 
Attached signs shall be permitted on any building elevation, regardless of street frontage; however, in no case shall attached signs be allowed on building elevations fronting Lake Saint Louis, Lake Saint Louise, or property that is zoned or used for residential purposes, unless it is determined by the Community Development Director that a sufficient combination of distance, buffer, or other conditions exists between the subject property and the proposed sign so that the sign will not be visible from such property or will not adversely affect such property. A sign approved in this manner shall not be illuminated.
2. 
Awning Or Canopy Sign.
a. 
Awning and canopy signs may either be:
(1) 
Made of rigid weatherproof materials; or
(2) 
Made of the same material as the awning or canopy; or
(3) 
Painted with weather-resistant paint directly on the awning or canopy material.
b. 
All signs constructed of materials other than paint or the material with which the canopy or awning is covered shall be permanently attached to the frame of the awning or canopy.
c. 
The maximum vertical dimension of the sign shall not exceed eighteen (18) inches.
3. 
Projecting Sign.
a. 
No additional requirements.
4. 
Roof Sign.
a. 
In no case shall the maximum sign surface area of any permitted roof sign exceed two hundred (200) square feet on any one unplatted parcel of land or five hundred (500) square feet on any platted parcel of land.
5. 
Suspended Sign.
a. 
Suspended signs hanging from the underside of an awning or canopy shall not extend beyond the edge of such structure.
6. 
Wall Sign.
a. 
In no case shall the maximum sign surface area of any permitted wall sign exceed two hundred (200) square feet on any one (1) unplatted parcel of land or five hundred (500) square feet on any platted parcel of land.
C. 
On-Premises Signs - Freestanding.
1. 
Generally.
a. 
Freestanding signs shall be designed to be consistent and compatible with the building with which the signs are associated, including proportional scale and compatible design, materials, and color.
b. 
Freestanding signs shall be placed within a landscaped area equal in size to the area of the sign face or shall be located within an improved area clearly oriented toward pedestrians, such as a seating, dining, or landscaped entry area.
c. 
Freestanding signs serving multiple tenants or parcels must be owned and operated by the owner of the parcel and be available to serve all tenants.
d. 
Freestanding signs may be illuminated.
2. 
Changeable Copy Sign.
a. 
Signs are permitted only as they can be incorporated into monument signs.
b. 
One (1) sign may be placed on each side of a two-faced monument sign.
c. 
Signs, whether incorporated into one (1) side of a monument sign or two (2) sides of a monument sign, will be permitted at only one (1) location on any one lot.
3. 
Drive-Through Sign.
a. 
One (1) face per sign is permitted.
b. 
Signs shall be of a similar design using similar colors and materials as other freestanding signs associated with the use.
c. 
Digital displays are permitted.
4. 
Electronic Message Center.
a. 
Design.
(1) 
Signs are permitted only as they can be incorporated into monument signs.
(2) 
One (1) sign may be placed on each side of a two-faced monument sign.
b. 
Location.
(1) 
Signs, whether incorporated into one (1) side of a monument sign or two (2) sides of a commercial sign, will be permitted at only one (1) location on any one lot in close proximity to the facility's main vehicular entrance.
(2) 
Signs located in the MU, C1 or C2 District shall be located no closer than two hundred fifty (250) feet from the nearest residential property line.
c. 
Display.
(1) 
Use of graphic functions such as explode, swirl, flash, grow, melt, x-ray, scroll (up or down), write-on, travel, inverse, roll, twinkle, snow or other animation is prohibited.
(2) 
Use of video or moving video images is not permitted.
(3) 
Displays on signs must be displayed for a minimum of thirty (30) seconds between the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 10:00 P.M. Display boards shall remain static without change of message between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M.
(4) 
Change to a separate display must utilize the graphic functions of fade-out and fade-in.
(5) 
Signs must be designed and equipped to freeze the device in one (1) position if a malfunction occurs.
d. 
Brightness.
(1) 
Signs must have capabilities for regulating brightness.
(2) 
The brightness of signs must automatically adjust via photocell for use during daylight hours and non-daylight hours.
(3) 
The maximum permitted brightness is five thousand (5,000) NIT (candela per square meter) during daylight hours and three hundred (300) NIT (candela per square meter) during non-daylight hours.
e. 
At the request of appropriate City officials at any reasonable time following installation, the operator of the sign shall demonstrate that settings are in compliance with the requirements of this Subsection.
5. 
Monument Sign.
a. 
Monument sign foundations shall be constructed with a finished material, such as brick or stone.
b. 
Monument signs may be located in medians and in such cases are not subject to setback requirements but shall comply with sight distance requirements.
c. 
In residential zoning districts, freestanding signs supported by a fence, wall, posts, columns, or other permanent measure will be allowed in lieu of permitted monument signs.
6. 
Pole Sign.
a. 
Pole signs are only permitted on lots that are fifteen (15) acres or larger in size.
D. 
Off-Premises - Freestanding.
1. 
Billboards.
a. 
Purpose.
(1) 
The intent of these regulations is to regulate and control the display of billboards to promote roadway safety, convenience and enjoyment of roadway travel and to preserve the aesthetic character along major roads.
b. 
Location.
(1) 
Billboards shall be permitted in the CO, C1, C2 and LI Zoning Districts in areas within six hundred sixty (660) feet of the nearest edge of the right-of-way and visible from any part of the interstate or primary highway system subject to these regulations and any superseding regulations by the Missouri Department of Transportation or Sections 226.500 to 226.600, 71.288, RSMo., as amended.
c. 
Spacing.
(1) 
No sign structure shall be erected within two thousand (2,000) feet of an existing billboard on the same side of the highway.
(2) 
Before a permit is issued, the applicant shall submit a sign survey to indicate the relative vertical and horizontal distances between the proposed sign and all other pole-mounted signs within one thousand (1,000) feet. If, by reason of height, size or spacing, the proposed sign creates a significant disharmony with pole-mounted signs within one thousand (1,000) feet or unreasonably detracts from the visibility of other neighboring signs or properties, the Planning and Zoning Commission or Community Development Director may require reasonable modification of the sign's dimensions to cure such deficiencies as a condition to granting a permit.
(3) 
No sign shall be located in such a manner as to obstruct or otherwise physically interfere with the effectiveness of any official traffic sign, signal or device or obstruct or physically interfere with a motor vehicle operator's view of approaching, merging or intersecting traffic.
(4) 
The spacing requirements do not apply to signs which are separated by buildings, natural surroundings or other obstructions in such a manner that only one (1) sign facing located within such distance is visible at any one time. Directional or other official signs or those advertising the sale or lease of the property on which they are located or those which advertise activities on the property on which they are located, including products sold, shall not be counted nor shall measurements be made from them for the purpose of compliance with spacing provisions.
(5) 
The measurement in this Subsection shall be minimum distances between outdoor advertising sign structures measured along the nearest edge of the pavement between points directly opposite the signs along each side of the highway and shall apply only to outdoor advertising sign structures located on the same side of the highway involved.
d. 
Setbacks, Safety Clearances And Heights.
(1) 
In order to provide a safety zone to prevent injury or property damage from collapse of billboard caused by acts of God or other causes, each billboard shall have the following minimum setbacks:
(a) 
Ninety (90) feet from its nearest edge to the right-of-way of any interstate or primary highway.
(b) 
Ninety (90) feet from all property lines and from all roofed structures, from all points of the off-premises billboard.
(i) 
The applicant shall present documentation to the reasonable satisfaction of the Community Development Director that the applicant has secured the legally enforceable right to prevent the erection of structures within the setback zones.
(c) 
One thousand (1,000) feet from any interchange, existing or approved for construction by the Missouri Highway and Transportation Department, intersection at grade or safety rest area. Said one thousand (1,000) feet shall be measured from the beginning or ending of the pavement widening at the exit from or entrance to the main traveled way.
(d) 
One thousand (1,000) feet from land zoned for residential or public activity purposes.
e. 
Height.
(1) 
Each off-premises billboard shall have a maximum height, measured from the ground to the highest point of such off-premises billboard, of thirty-five (35) feet.
f. 
Size.
(1) 
The maximum area for any one (1) sign shall be six hundred seventy-two (672) square feet with a maximum width of twenty (20) feet and a maximum length of fifty (50) feet, inclusive of border and trim but excluding the base or apron, supports and other structural members.
(a) 
In determining the size of a conforming or nonconforming sign structure, temporary cutouts and extensions installed for the length of a specific display contract shall not be considered a substantial increase to the size of the permanent display, provided that the actual square footage of such temporary cutouts or extensions may not exceed thirty-three percent (33%) of the permanent display area.
(2) 
The maximum size limitations shall apply to each side of a sign structure; and signs may be placed back to back, double-faced or in V-type construction with not more than two (2) displays to each facing, but sign structure shall be considered as one (1) sign.
g. 
Lighting.
(1) 
No revolving or rotating beam or beacon of light that simulates any emergency light or device shall be permitted as part of any sign. No flashing, intermittent or moving light or lights will be permitted.
(2) 
External lighting, such as floodlights, thin-line and gooseneck reflectors, are permitted, provided that the light source is directed 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 of the interstate or federal-aid primary highway and the lights are not of such intensity so as to cause glare, impair the vision of the driver of a motor vehicle, or otherwise interfere with a driver's operation of a motor vehicle.
(3) 
No sign shall be so illuminated that it interferes with the effectiveness of, or obscures, any official traffic sign, device or signal, nor shall the illumination be directed toward any residential area.
(4) 
The maximum average lighting intensity level for such sign shall be twenty (20) foot-candles.
(5) 
No billboard shall have any electronic, digital, tri-vision or other changeable copy display.
h. 
Nuisances.
(1) 
Any off-premises billboard which, because of lack of maintenance, upkeep, vandalism, accumulation of litter, refuse or debris or the deterioration of landscaping, lighting or fencing, becomes unsightly or unsafe is hereby declared to be a nuisance and shall be subject to abatement by the City in the same manner as all other nuisances on private property.
i. 
Access.
(1) 
Direct access to off-premises billboards from curb cuts along a State highway or service road shall be prohibited. Direct access shall be gained through paved roads and drives which are private and internal to a lot or parcel. All vehicles, equipment and people used to build, service, maintain and repair such signs must confine their activity so as not to interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic on public roads.
j. 
Application Procedure.
(1) 
All new billboard structures shall require approval of a special use permit (Section 405.170).
(2) 
The sign located on the billboard face shall be approved through the sign permit process (Section 405.200).
(3) 
A building permit, electrical permit and/or certification of a structural engineer may be required in association with a billboard structure and/or sign.
(4) 
The City shall not issue a permit for any new off-premises billboard without a permit having first been issued by the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission.
k. 
Annual Inspection.
(1) 
Owners of all signs erected after the effective date of this Code shall be required to submit an inspection report from a Missouri licensed engineer as to the sign's structural integrity. Such certification shall be done on or before June 1 of each year. Failure to submit a report shall result in the immediate revocation of the sign's permit.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Generally.
1. 
Temporary signs are allowed as indicated in Table 425.540.B, Summary of Temporary Sign Standards, and are subject to the additional standards of this Section.
2. 
No balloons, ribbons, flags, pennants, ornaments or other embellishments shall be attached to any temporary signs.
3. 
Temporary signs shall not be affixed to any public utility structure, tree, fence or any public or existing private sign standard.
4. 
Temporary signs may not be illuminated.
5. 
Any person, persons, firm, corporation or partnership promoting the event promoted by a temporary sign shall be presumed to be the owner of such sign.
6. 
Because of the nature of materials typically used to construct temporary signs and to avoid the unsightliness of deteriorating signs and all safety concerns which accompany such a condition, temporary signs shall be removed or replaced when such sign is deteriorated.
7. 
Temporary signs placed or exhibited in a manner not in compliance with the provisions of this Code are subject to removal in accordance with Section 425.570(D), Removal Of Signs.
8. 
The Community Development Director may approve an alternative sign type in lieu of a permitted sign type.
B. 
Temporary Signage For New Residential Developments.
1. 
In addition to permitted temporary signs allowed as indicated in Table 425.540.B, Summary of Temporary Sign Standards, additional temporary signs, including but not limited to pole flags, banners, display home canopies and off-premises directional signs may be approved for new residential developments subject to approval by the Community Development Director.
2. 
All such signs shall be removed upon the cessation of the presence of an active sales or leasing office within the development or when more than eighty percent (80%) of the buildable lots have been issued occupancy permits or when more than eighty percent (80%) of the units have been leased or sold.
3. 
Off-Premises Directional Signs.
a. 
Eligibility.
(1) 
Residential off-premises directional signs are permitted for residential developments located within the City limits when eighty percent (80%) or less of the buildable lots have been issued occupancy permits or when eighty percent (80%) or less of the units have been leased or sold.
b. 
Size And Design.
(1) 
Signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
(2) 
Signs shall be designed to accommodate equally sized space for lettering and logos of at least four (4) and no more than eight (8) individual residential developments. Any unused space shall on the sign be made available for any eligible residential development. The entity that installed the sign structure shall not have the authority to deny or approve the addition of lettering or logos for individual residential developments on the sign.
(3) 
The sign shall not exceed twelve (12) feet in height.
(4) 
Signs shall be substantially uniform in appearance.
c. 
Number And Location.
(1) 
Signs shall be located on public rights-of-way at the intersection of arterial or collector streets, or upon a City-approved location.
(2) 
No more than two (2) signs may be placed at such intersections, providing service for traffic moving in different directions. However, such signs may be configured with two (2) faces, in which case no more than one (1) sign may be located at the intersection.
(3) 
Signs shall conform to the visibility clearance requirements of Section 425.080, Visibility At Intersections.
(4) 
Signs shall be located within one and five-tenths (1.5) miles of the residential developments advertised on the sign.
d. 
Permitting And Maintenance.
(1) 
The sign design and location shall be approved by the City Administrator.
(2) 
Applicants shall submit a boring and excavation permit to the Public Works Department. Insurance and bonding requirements shall be equal to those required in Section 511.200 for driveway approaches and sidewalks.
(3) 
The applicant for the boring and excavation permit is responsible for maintaining the sign with respect to safety and appearance until the sign is removed.
(4) 
Lettering and logos for individual residential developments shall be removed from the sign within thirty (30) days following the issuance of occupancy permits for more than eighty percent (80%) of the buildable lots in the development or when eighty percent (80%) or more of the units have been leased or sold. When lettering and logos for all residential developments have been removed from the sign, the sign itself shall also be removed.
C. 
Permitted Sign Types.
1. 
Banners.
a. 
Banner signs may be displayed only as a wall sign on a building facade or as a ground-mounted sign.
b. 
All banner signs shall be securely fastened to the facade of the building or to two (2) or more posts in the ground.
c. 
All freestanding banner signs shall include wind cuts to reduce the tendency of the banner to billow or sail.
2. 
Sidewalk Signs.
a. 
A-frame and T-frame sidewalk signs are permitted.
b. 
Signs shall be located on the private or public sidewalk immediately adjacent to the front door of the business utilizing the sign when the business is open.
c. 
Such signs may be located no further than twenty (20) feet from the front door of the business and must be in front of the front facade of the business, if the business is located in a multi-tenant building.
d. 
Such signs may be adorned with balloons.
e. 
Signs shall not obstruct safe and clear pedestrian paths along sidewalks.
3. 
Yard Signs.
a. 
Yard signs can be configured in a V-shape or with two (2) sides.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Maintenance.
1. 
All signs and all components thereof, including without limitations, supports, braces and anchors, shall be kept in a state of good repair.
2. 
All signs and all components thereof shall be maintained so that faded and chipped paint is removed and replaced, so that sign faces containing unintended holes, breaks or missing parts are repaired and/or replaced.
B. 
Abandonment.
1. 
If a sign advertises a business, service, community, accommodations, attraction or other enterprise or activity that is no longer operating or being offered or conducted, that sign shall be considered abandoned and shall, within sixty (60) days after such abandonment, be removed by the sign owner, owner of the property on which the sign is located, or other party having control over such sign.
C. 
Sign Shells.
1. 
If the message portion of a sign is removed, leaving only the supporting shell of a sign or the supporting structural components, the owner of the sign or the owners of the property where the sign is located or other person having control over such sign shall, within sixty (60) days of the removal of the message portion of the sign, either replace the entire message portion of the sign or remove the remaining sign components.
2. 
This Subsection shall not be construed to alter the effect of Section 425.590, Nonconforming Signs, which prohibits the replacement of a nonconforming sign. Nor shall this Subsection be construed to prevent the changing of the message of a legal, conforming sign.
D. 
Removal Of Signs.
1. 
Signs may be removed by authorized officials of the City if:
a. 
Proper approval and permit from the City were not obtained prior to display;
b. 
Proper approval or permit has expired;
c. 
A temporary sign becomes unsightly;
d. 
The sign violates any provision of this Article; or
e. 
The sign constitutes a hazard to the public safety and welfare of the residents of the City of Lake Saint Louis or persons traveling on the public streets and roadways of the City.
2. 
Confiscated signs will be destroyed or otherwise properly disposed of fourteen (14) days from the date of confiscation.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Purpose.
1. 
The intent of a comprehensive sign plan is to facilitate the planning of cohesive signage for specific areas or developments that may be unique in character and design otherwise not compatible with the standard sign regulations. Through a comprehensive sign plan process, applicants set specific sign regulations that will govern the specific property(ies), which shall supersede the requirements of this Article, as applicable.
2. 
The intent of a comprehensive sign plan is not to allow more signage than necessary for visibility and readability, but to allow for a creative approach that is specific to the qualities and needs of a development.
B. 
Applicability.
1. 
A comprehensive sign plan may be applied for in any zoning district for one (1) or more parcels.
2. 
The comprehensive sign plan shall only apply to on-premises signs. The requirements of this Article applicable to off-premises signs may not be modified by a comprehensive sign plan.
3. 
An approved comprehensive sign plan shall govern the properties under the plan and shall remain in effect over the properties until it is amended, replaced or voided.
4. 
Planned unit developments approved prior to the effective date of this Code which included sign plans and/or sign standards will be considered comprehensive sign plans and subject to the requirements of this Section.
C. 
Procedure.
1. 
Requests for a comprehensive sign plan shall follow the procedure for minor site plans (Section 405.160).
D. 
Application Requirements.
1. 
A site plan, depicting the proposed plan of development and illustration of proposed sign locations;
2. 
Descriptions and drawings indicating the proposed placement, quantity, size and materials of all signs; and
3. 
A narrative description of the common theme for signage within the property, how it relates to architectural and/or landscaping elements of the development, and a description of any site features that necessitate the deviation from the requirements of this Article.
E. 
Criteria For Review.
1. 
Placement.
a. 
All signs shall be placed where they are sufficiently visible and readable for their function.
b. 
Factors to be considered shall include the purpose of the sign, its location relative to traffic movement and access points, site features, structures and sign orientation relative to viewing distances and viewing angles.
2. 
Quantity.
a. 
The number of signs that may be approved within any development shall be no greater than that required to provide project identification and entry signs, internal circulation and directional information to destinations and development subareas and business identification.
b. 
Factors to be considered shall include the size of the site, the number of buildings, and the division or integration of sign functions.
3. 
Size.
a. 
All signs shall be no larger than necessary for visibility and readability.
b. 
Factors to be considered in determining appropriate size shall include topography, volume of traffic, speed of traffic, visibility range, proximity to adjacent uses, amount of sign copy, placement of display (location and height), lettering style and the presence of distractive influences.
c. 
In no event shall a plan contain a sign or combination of signs which exceed by more than fifty percent (50%) the maximum sign area specified in Table 425.540.A, Summary of Permanent Sign Standards, and Table 425.540.B, Summary of Temporary Sign Standards.
4. 
Materials.
a. 
Sign materials shall be compatible with architectural and/or natural features of the project. This may be accomplished through similarity of materials for sign structures and faces, the use of complementary colors, similarity of architectural style or the use of consistent lettering style and typography.
F. 
Amending, Replacing And Voiding.
1. 
A request to amend, replace or void an existing approved comprehensive sign plan shall follow the same procedure as a new comprehensive sign plan.
[Ord. No. 4190, 2-1-2021]
A. 
Continuation.
1. 
Nonconforming signs may remain until they are required to be removed under the provisions of this Section.
B. 
Alterations.
1. 
A nonconforming sign cannot be enlarged, expanded or otherwise improved except for the purpose of normal maintenance and incidental repairs.
2. 
The only alteration to a nonconforming sign that is permitted is a change in the sign face, the words or symbols used or the message displayed.
3. 
Any other alteration or change must be to bring the nonconforming sign into compliance with the regulations of this Code.
C. 
Maintenance, Repair And Reconstruction.
1. 
Subject to the other provisions of this Article, nonconforming signs may be repaired and renovated so long as the cost of such work does not exceed, within any twelve-month period, fifty percent (50%) of the value of such sign.
D. 
Relocation.
1. 
A nonconforming sign may not be moved to a new location on the same property or to a new location on a different property or replaced except to bring the sign into complete conformity with this Article.