Village of Port Chester, NY Sign Standards

Purpose. The purpose of this § 345-701 is to establish a comprehensive scheme for the regulation of Signs in the Village. More specifically, this section is intended to accomplish the following purposes:

(1)

Communication and Navigation: encourage the effective use of Signs as a means of communication and to facilitate navigation from place to place within the Village.

(2)

Conveyance of Information and Traffic Safety: balance the need for information for motorists and pedestrians with the need for traffic safety by limiting Signs or characteristics of Signs that may be distracting to drivers.

(3)

Expression and Maintenance of Environment: balance the desire and need of individuals to express themselves through Signs with the desire to maintain a pleasing, safe, and navigable environment for residents and visitors.

(4)

Means of Expression: provide for the display of noncommercial messages in residential areas, recognizing the unique value of residential signage as a means of exercising constitutional freedom of expression.

(5)

Property Value: protect and enhance the value of property in the Village by providing for Signs consistent with the character of the area in which they are located.

Compliance. Signs must comply with the following:

(1)

New York State Law. To the extent applicable, Signs must comply with New York General Municipal Law § 74-c and/or New York Highway Law § 88; and if there is any conflict between either of such state laws to the extent applicable, and this § 345-701, such conflict shall be resolved in favor of such state law.

(2)

Sign Types, Standards and Numbers. Within each District, the allowed types and numbers of Signs shall be as provided in Table 345.701.A (Sign Types: Summary) and Table 345.701.B (Sign Types: Specific Standards), and this § 345-701. Each Sign type shall be subject to the applicable standards and requirements of Table 345.701.A (Sign Types: Summary) and Table 345.701.B (Sign Types: Specific Standards).

[Amended 1-19-2021 by L.L. No. 5-2021]

(a)

Summary of Sign Types.

Table 345.701.A Sign Types: Summary
Specific Sign Type	Illustration	Districts
Address Sign A Sign that consists of a numeric reference to a Structure, mounted on the Building		CD-3 CD-3.R20 CD-3.R5 CD-3.R7 CD-4 CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU SD-PRD CV
Awning Sign An awning that contains lettering painted, screen printed, or appliqued on the awning valance		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Band Sign A Sign that is flat against the Facade and placed directly above the main entrance and often runs horizontally along the entablature of traditional Buildings. Band Signs are typically intended to be seen from a distance and are often accompanied by additional pedestrian-scaled signage.		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Blade Sign A Sign mounted on the first floor of a Building perpendicular to a Building Facade Wall, typically hung from decorative cast- or wrought-iron bracket in a manner that permits it to swing slightly. These Signs are small, pedestrian-scaled, and easily read from both sides.		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Directory Sign A Sign that displays the tenant names and locations for a Building containing multiple tenants		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Large Projecting Sign A Sign attached above the first floor of a multifloor Building and projecting from a Building Facade at a 90-degree angle, or if oriented to a Block corner, a 45-degree angle		CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Marquee Sign A Sign that is located either along the Facade where it projects perpendicular to the Facade or at the corner of a Building where it projects at a 45-degree angle. These Signs often extend beyond the parapet of the Building, but may also terminate below the cornice or eave. Marquee Signs may have neon lettering used in conjunction with painted, colored or changeable lettering.		CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Monument Sign A Sign that is erected on a solid base directly on the ground, and that is itself constructed of a solid material		CD-4¹ SD-PMU CV
Outdoor Display Case A Sign consisting of a lockable metal- or wood-framed cabinet with a hinged transparent door inside of which information may be viewed and accessed for maintenance and updating		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Plaque Sign A Sign that identifies a Building or its builder, or on professional office Buildings, which might name the firm or partners in a firm. May also be referred to as an "Architectural Sign."		CD-3² CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Porch Sign Signs that are mounted on a porch. Signs must be placed parallel to the Building Facade.		CD-4¹ SD-PMU CV
Post Sign A Sign that is mounted on 1 or 2 posts in the First Lot Layer		CD-4¹ SD-PMU CV
Sidewalk Sign A freestanding, double-sided Sign with lettering painted or applied to the surface, placed at the entrance to a Building in a primarily pedestrian environment. Sidewalk Signs provide secondary signage.		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Wall Sign A Sign that is flat against the Facade of a Secondary Frontage. These Signs are typically painted directly on the Building and contain a combination of text and graphic elements. They are intended to be visible from a greater distance and shall be accompanied by additional signage on the Facade at the Principal Frontage.		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Window Sign A Sign that is professionally painted, consisting of individual letters and designs, applied directly on the inside of a window or hanging inside a window		CD-4¹ CD-5 CD-5W CD-6 CD-6T SD-PMU CV
Illustrations are provided for illustrative purposes only
NOTE:
¹Sign Type only allowed when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).
²No more than one Plaque Sign may be used for a Home Occupation in CD-3.

(b)

Specific Sign Type Standards.

Table 345.701.B Sign Types: Specific Standards
B-1	Address

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign that consists of a numeric reference to a Structure, mounted on the Building
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)	1 per address
	Area	Maximum 2 square feet
	Depth/Projection	Maximum 3 inches
	Clearance	Minimum 4.5 feet
	Letter Height	Minimum 4 inches; maximum 6 inches

B-2	Awning Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	An awning that contains lettering painted, screen printed, or appliqueed on the awning valance
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)			1 per window
	Width/Height			Maximum width = width of facade Maximum height = n/a Letters, numbers, and graphics covering no more than 70% of the valance area
	Depth/Projection			Minimum 8 feet fully extended, back of curb, whichever is less
	Clearance			Minimum 8 feet
	Letter Height			Minimum 5 inches; maximum 10 inches
	Valance Height			Maximum 12 inches
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Awning Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be only on an awning that:
		(a)	Does not conceal an architectural feature;
		(b)	Has no side panels or soffit;
		(c)	Is rectangular in elevation and triangular in cross section with straight edges and is not quarter-round or domed; and
		(d)	Has a metal structure covered in opaque authentic or synthetic canvas or painted metal; and
	(2)	Shall be limited to the valance of the awning.

B-3	Band Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
A Sign that is flat against the Facade and placed directly above the main entrance and often run horizontally along the entablature of traditional Buildings. Band Signs are typically intended to be seen from a distance and are often accompanied by additional pedestrian-scaled signage.
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per Facade plus 1 per first floor business Frontage
	Area		1.5 square feet per linear foot of Facade
	Width/Height		Maximum 100% width of Facade/maximum 3 feet
	Depth/Projection		Maximum 7 inches
	Clearance		Minimum 7 feet
C.	Additional Standards
	In addition to all other applicable standards, each Band Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be applied to the first Story Facade and not project vertically above the roofline;
	(2)	Shall have letters individually attached to the wall, on a separate background panel affixed to the wall, or printed or etched on the same surface as the background; and
	(3)	Shall not obscure any architectural element of the Building and shall be in vertical alignment with the center of an architectural element, such as a storefront window or entrance, or centered over the bay or overall space occupied by the business.

B-4	Blade Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign mounted on the first floor of a Building perpendicular to a Building Facade Wall, typically hung from decorative cast or wrought iron bracket in a manner that permits it to swing slightly. These Signs are small, pedestrian-scaled, and easily read from both sides.
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per business, no closer than 18 feet from another Blade Sign
	Area		8 square feet
	Width/Height		Maximum 2 feet/maximum 4 feet
	Depth/Projection		Maximum 4 feet
	Clearance		Minimum 8 feet clear above the Sidewalk
	Letter Height		Maximum 8 inches
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Blade Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be permanently installed perpendicular to the Facade; and
	(2)	All exposed edges of the Sign shall be finished.

B-5	Directory Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign that displays the tenant names and locations for a Building containing multiple tenants
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per ground floor entrance to upper floor business(es)
	Area		6 square feet maximum
	Width/Height of Sign Panel		2 feet maximum width/3 feet maximum height
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Directory Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be attached to and parallel with the first floor Facade; and
	(2)	Shall not be attached to or placed within shopfront windows.

B-6	Large Projecting Sign

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign attached above the first floor of a multifloor Building and projecting from a Building Facade at a 90-degree angle, or if oriented to a Block corner, a 45-degree angle
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per Facade, per business. If Sign is placed at the Building corner where it can be viewed from 2 Adjacent Facades, it counts toward both Facades.
	Height (maximum)		Top of Sign must be located below the cornice of a two-Story Building or below the windowsills of the Third Story of a Building with more than 2 Stories.
	Area (maximum)		50 square feet
	Clearance		Minimum 12 feet clear above the Sidewalk
	Letter Height		Not regulated
	Depth (maximum)		Maximum 18 inches
	Projection (maximum)		7 feet over Sidewalk, but may not project past back of curb
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Large Projecting Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be made of metal or other material more than 1/2 inch in thickness;
	(2)	Shall be permanently installed to the Facade; and
	(3)	Shall not be internally lighted or backlit except behind cut-out letters and otherwise shall be lighted with neon tubing or other external means.

B-7	Marquee Sign

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign that is located either along the Facade where it projects perpendicular to the Facade or at the corner of a Building where it projects at a 45-degree angle. These Signs often extend beyond the parapet of the Building, but may also terminate below the cornice or eave. Marquee Signs may have neon lettering used in conjunction with painted colored or changeable lettering.
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per Principal Frontage
	Width/Height		Centered on and no more than 4 feet wider than Principal Entrance bay
	Depth/Projection		Minimum 4 feet, maximum 10 feet over Sidewalk
	Clearance		Minimum 10 feet from Sidewalk
	Letter Height		Removable letter height maximum 6 inches, permanent letter height maximum 36 inches
	Distance from Curb		Minimum 3 feet
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Marquee Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall not be internally lighted or backlit except behind the panels from which changeable letters are hung and shall otherwise be lighted with neon tubing or other external means;
	(2)	Shall be located only above the Principal Entrance of a Building and attached parallel to the Facade, or if such Building is located on a corner, then such Sign may be located at and attached perpendicular to the corner of the Building;
	(3)	Shall not have any supports more than 8 feet deep, and all anchors, bolts, and supporting rods must be concealed within its interior; and
	(4)	Together with all anchors, bolts, supporting rods and braces, shall be constructed of high-quality noncombustible or noncorrodable components and materials and shall be designed by a structural engineer and be subject to approval by the Building Inspector.

B-8	Monument Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign that is erected on a solid base directly on the ground, and that is itself constructed of a solid material
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per Frontage
	Area (maximum)		18 square feet
	Height (maximum)		6 feet
	Letter Height		Maximum 12 inches
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all of the applicable standards, each Monument Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be located within the First Lot Layer;
	(2)	Shall incorporate a supporting base that is at least 75% of the width of the Sign face at its widest point;
	(3)	Shall have a supporting base constructed of brick, stone, masonry or scored concrete; and
	(4)	Shall not be allowed if there is a Post Sign on the Lot.

B-9	Outdoor Display Case
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign consisting of a lockable metal- or wood-framed cabinet with a hinged transparent door inside of which information may be viewed and accessed for maintenance and updating
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per Principal Frontage
	Area		Maximum 8 square feet, except in the case of theaters, which may not exceed 20 square feet
	Depth/Projection		Maximum 5 inches
	Clearance		Minimum 30 inches
	Letter Height		Not regulated
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Outdoor Display Case allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be permanently attached to and parallel with the first floor Facade;
	(2)	May be externally illuminated or lighted by a recessed light source within the cabinet; and
	(3)	Shall not be attached to or be placed within shopfront windows.

B-10	Plaque Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign that identifies a Building or its builder, or on professional office Buildings, which might name the firm or partners in a firm
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)	1 per Principal Frontage
	Area	Maximum 1 square foot
	Width/Height	Maximum 18 inches/maximum 2 feet
	Depth/Projection	Maximum 3 inches
	Mounting Height maximum	7 feet
C.	Additional Standards
	In addition to all other applicable standards, each Plaque Sign allowed under this article shall consist of either a panel or individual letters inset or applied flush with a Building wall within 10 feet of an entrance to the Building.
	No more than 1 Plaque Sign may be used for a Home Occupation in CD-3.

B-11	Porch Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	Signs that are mounted on a porch. Signs must be placed parallel to the Building Facade.
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per address (2 for Corner Building)
	Area		Maximum 6 square feet
	Width/Height		Maximum 100% width of entrance/maximum 2 feet
	Depth/Projection		n/a
	Clearance		Minimum 7 feet
	Letter Height		Maximum 8 inches
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Porch Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be hung above the entrance to the porch or elsewhere on the architrave (beam at top of columns); and
	(2)	Shall be permanently installed parallel to the Facade of the Building.

B-12	Post Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign that is mounted on 1 or 2 posts in the First Lot Layer
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per Building
	Area		12 square feet
	Width/Height of Sign panel		Maximum 48 inches/maximum 40 inches
	Apex		6 feet
	Letter Height		Maximum 10 inches
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Post Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	May be mounted on 1 or 2 posts; and
	(2)	Shall be set perpendicular to the Building Facade.

B-13	Sidewalk Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A freestanding, double-sided Sign with lettering painted or applied to the surface, placed at the entrance to a Building in a primarily pedestrian environment
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per business
	Area		Maximum 10 square feet
	Width/Height		Maximum 30 inches/maximum 48 inches
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Sidewalk Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be located directly in front of the space occupied by the sign permit holder;
	(2)	Shall not be placed so as to cause the width of the sidewalk to be reduced below 5 feet in width, nor shall it be erected or maintained in a manner that prevents free ingress or egress from any door, window, or fire escape;
	(3)	Shall be marked with the approved permit or permit number. Sidewalk signs without permits shall be disposed of at owner's expense;
	(4)	Shall not be illuminated or have any moving parts;
	(5)	Shall only be displayed between 9:00 a.m. .and 11:00 p.m. and shall be removed from public rights-of-way in the event of snow accumulation until such time that accumulation is removed;
	(6)	Shall not be made of paper or cardboard; and
	(7)	May be removed by the Village from the right-of-way for municipal purposes.

B-14	Wall Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign that is flat against the Facade of a Secondary Frontage. These Signs are typically painted directly on the Building and contain a combination of text and graphic elements. They are intended to be visible from a greater distance and shall be accompanied by additional signage on the Facade at the Principal Frontage.
B.	Dimensions
	Quantity (maximum)		1 per business
	Area		Maximum 32 square feet
	Depth/Projection		3 inches
	Clearance		4 feet
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Wall Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall not project vertically above the roofline;
	(2)	Shall include only letters, background, lighting, and an optional logo, which such information shall consist only of the name and/or logo of the businesses located in such Building;
	(3)	Shall have letters individually attached to the wall, on a separate background panel affixed to the wall, or painted, printed or etched on the same surface as the background; and
	(4)	Shall not obscure any architectural element and be in vertical alignment with the center of an architectural element, such as a storefront window or entrance, or centered over the bay or overall space occupied by the businesses.

B-15	Window Sign
Only allowed in CD-4 when associated with Principal Buildings on Lots facing Willett Avenue, South Regent Street, William Street (between Washington Street and Pearl Street), Westchester Avenue, Midland Avenue, Boston Post Road, North Main Street, Bowman Avenue, and Putnam Avenue (between North Main Street and Willett Avenue).

Permitted Districts

A.	General Description
	A Sign applied directly on the inside of a window or hanging inside a window.
B.	Dimensions
	Area			Maximum 33% of glass onto which it is applied
C.	Additional Standards
In addition to all other applicable standards, each Window Sign allowed under this article:
	(1)	Shall be of one of the following types:
		(a)	Letters painted or applied directly on the window;
		(b)	Hanging Sign that hangs parallel to the window;
		(c)	Neon Sign; and
		(d)	Door Sign applied to or hanging inside the glass portion of an entrance doorway; and
	(2)	Shall not interfere with the primary function of windows, which is to enable passersby and public safety personnel to see through windows into the premises and view product displays.

Permit Required. Except for Exempt Signs, no Sign shall be erected on a Lot, installed or placed on a Building, or otherwise exist on a Lot or Building unless a Sign Permit has been issued for such Sign in accordance with § 345-809 and such Sign Permit remains in full force and effect.

Violation, Enforcement and Appeal. Any violation of this § 345-701 shall be enforceable and appealable in accordance with the enforcement and appeal provisions of this Chapter 345.

Allowed Signs. There shall be no Signs allowed other than as specified in this § 345-701.

Address Signs. An Address Sign is required for each Building in compliance with Table 345.701.A (Sign Types: Summary) and Table 345.701.B (Sign Types: Specific Standards).

Temporary Signs. In addition to all other Signs allowed in accordance with Table 345.701.A (Sign Types: Summary) and Table 345.701.B (Sign Types: Specific Standards), nonilluminated Temporary Signs are allowed without a Sign Permit subject to the following:

(1)

Single-Family, Two-Family and Owner-Occupied Multifamily Residential. On any Lot used as a single-family, two-family, or owner-occupied multifamily Dwelling, up to five Temporary Signs may be displayed on a pole or stake affixed to the ground. Each such Sign must be removed within 45 days of installation. Such Signs shall not exceed eight square feet in area per side, and the top of such Sign shall be no more than five feet from ground level.

(2)

Other Lots. On any Lot not used as a single-family, two-family, or owner-occupied multifamily Dwelling, up to two Temporary Signs may be displayed on a pole or stake affixed to the ground or on a banner affixed to a Building on the Lot. Each such Sign must be removed within 45 days of installation. Such Signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in area per side, and the top of the Sign shall be no more than five feet from ground level unless the Sign is a banner affixed to a Building. If affixed to the ground, they shall be supported by wooden posts a minimum of four inches by four inches thick and shall be spaced at least 15 feet apart from one another.

(3)

Materials and Condition. Temporary Signs must be made of waterproof materials and kept in good repair.

(4)

Setback and Visibility. Temporary Signs must be set back at least five feet from the property line and may not be placed in a manner that obstructs visibility for drivers on an Adjacent street or block pedestrians/bicyclists.

General Provisions Applicable to All Nonexempt Signs. Without limitation to any applicable specific Sign standards, all Signs other than Exempt Signs shall comply with the following additional standards:

(1)

Lighting. Signs may be, but are not required to be, lighted unless otherwise specifically stated for the particular Sign type in Table 345.701.B (Sign Types: Specific Standards); and if lighted, shall not be internally illuminated or backlighted except as otherwise specifically provided for the particular Sign type in Table 345.701.B (Sign Types: Specific Standards).

(2)

Certain Lighting Prohibited. No Sign may be illuminated with or include animated, moving, intermittent, or flashing lights, or other active lighting.

(3)

Electrical Elements. Except for the light fixture itself, all electrical elements, such as wires, conduits, junction boxes, transformers, ballasts, switches and panel boxes, shall be concealed from public view.

(4)

Compliance with Electrical Codes. All Signs erected, altered, or maintained in the Village shall conform to Village and state electrical codes, and/or Village Code Chapter 151, Building Code Administration and Enforcement.

(5)

Mounting. Signs shall be mounted in such a way that their removal does not damage and/or alter the original surface of the Building. If the original surface of a Building is damaged during removal of a Sign, the damage must be repaired and the original surface condition restored concurrently.

(6)

Affixing on Improper Support; Attachment. No Sign or Sign support may be affixed to a tree, rock, utility pole or other improper Sign support, or contain any attachment, other Sign, symbol, flag, pennant or other attention-getting device (other than the Sign itself).

(7)

Historic Signs. In addition to Sign types allowed pursuant to Table 345.701.A (Sign Types: Summary) and Table 345.701.B (Sign Types: Specific Standards), Signs that are original to the Building or have been placed on the Building for at least 50 years may remain or be reproduced. Any such Signs shall be kept in good repair, both in terms of appearance and operation.

(8)

Billboards and Off-Premises Signs. Billboards and Off-premises Signs are prohibited.

(9)

Portable Signs. Portable Signs other than Sidewalk Signs are not permitted.

(10)

Removal of Abandoned Signs. Except for Signs allowed pursuant to § 345-701(H)(5) above, Commercial Signs and supports for Commercial Signs erected by entities that are no longer operating on the premises shall be removed by the owner, agent, or Person having beneficial use of the Sign or the property upon which the Sign is located within 30 days of written notice from the Zoning Administrator.

(11)

Removal of Nonconforming Signs. All Signs that do not conform to this § 345-701 shall be removed pursuant to § 345-901G.

(12)

Certain Signs Prohibited. Neon cabinet Signs and projection Signs are not permitted.

(13)

Signs in Upper Floor Windows. Signs in upper floor windows are not permitted, except for Window Signs for an occupant that is separate from the occupant of the ground floor.

(14)

Occupant Rear Door Sign. A Sign for the occupant shall be permitted at rear entrance doors if mounted flush against the Building and not exceeding six square feet in size.

(15)

Building Code. All Signs must comply with all applicable provisions of the Building Code and/or Village Code Chapter 151, Building Code Administration and Enforcement.

(16)

Rights-of-Way. Except as expressly allowed under this article, Signs are not permitted in public rights-of-way.

(17)

Moving Elements/Components. No Sign may have any moving component or element.

(18)

Changeable Copy. No Sign may have changeable copy except for a Marquee Sign with physically changeable letters, an Outdoor Display Case with removable printed items, or an Electronic Message Board allowed pursuant to § 345-701I.

(19)

Imitation of Traffic Safety Control Sign. No Sign may, by design or arrangement, imitate the size, color, lettering, illumination, word, phrase, or symbol of a Sign used as traffic safety control Sign.

(20)

Obstruction of Traffic Sign or Control Device, or Street Name Sign; Visibility; Hazard. No Sign may obstruct a traffic-control device, traffic Sign, or street name Sign, block the vision of drivers at any Driveway, street intersection or crosswalk, or be unsafe or constitute a hazard of any type.

(21)

Sign Setback Relative to Adjoining Lot. Where a Lot adjoins another Lot, no freestanding Sign shall be permitted within a triangle formed by the Side Lot Line, the Front Lot Line and a line beginning on the Side Lot Line at the required front Setback distance and extended at 45° to the Front Lot Line for an existing Building. The established front Setback may be substituted for the required front Setback.

Illustration 345.701

Sign Setback

(22)

Overhang into Right-of-Way. No Sign may be within or overhang a public right-of-way other than a Wall Sign that does not overhang such right-of-way more than 15 inches, a Blade Sign, a Vertical Projecting Sign, a Marquee Sign, or an Awning Sign.

(23)

Design Drawings. Design drawings of any proposed Sign must be submitted to the Planning and Economic Development Zoning Administrator for review of compliance with this section prior to fabrication and installation. Such drawings shall include Sign location and size and shall indicate materials, color(s), hanging or mounting device, illumination scheme, and example of lettering.

Electronic Message Boards.

(1)

Districts Permitted. Electronic Message Boards shall be permitted in the CV District only. Such Signs shall be subject to the following conditions:

(a)

The electronic lighting shall be of a single color, otherwise referred to as "monochrome."

(b)

The electronic lighting shall not exceed a brightness level of 0.3 footcandle above ambient light as measured using a footcandle (lux) meter at a preset distance depending on sign area. The measurement distance shall be calculated with the following formula: the square root of the product of the sign area (in square feet) and 100. For example, the brightness of a twelve-square-foot sign shall be measured at a distance of 34.6 feet. Light measurement shall be taken with the meter aimed directly at the sign message face, or the area of the sign emitting the brightest light.

(c)

The frequency of message and/or image change shall be no more than once every 60 seconds.

(d)

The transition or change sequence between messages and images shall appear instantaneous as perceived by the human eye, without any animation, such as scrolling or flashing.

(2)

Area. The area of an Electronic Message Board shall be considered a part of the Sign of which it is a part for purposes of calculating the total sign area of such sign, and the area of the Electronic Message Board itself shall not exceed 50% of the total Sign area.

(3)

Distance Between. A new Electronic Message Board may not be constructed or installed within 100 feet of any Residential Structure, including multifamily Dwellings.

Exempt Signs. The following Signs are Exempt Signs and do not require a Sign Permit:

(1)

Address Sign: one Address Sign per tenant or owner.

(2)

Certain Small Signs: on-premises Signs not exceeding three square feet in area that are located along the route to a place or location within such premises or are provided for safety.

(3)

Governmental Signs: signs placed by the Village or any other governmental unit with jurisdiction over the area where the Sign is placed.

(4)

Certain Integrated Signs: signs carved into stone, concrete or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum, or other permanent construction and made an integral part of the Structure.

(5)

Temporary Signs: temporary Signs allowed under § 345-701G.

Sign Area Computation. The area of a Sign as regulated herein shall be the computed area of the background upon which lettering, insignia or other devices are placed. Where said display area is the face of a Building, the area of such Sign shall be the product of the total width and the total height occupied by such lettering, devices or insignia. For Signs having two sides, the maximum display area shall be permitted on both sides and the total area of one side shall be deemed to be the total Sign area. The supporting Structures shall not be included in the area computation unless utilized as part of the total display area.

Responsibility for Signs. All Signs located in the Village shall be erected, altered and maintained by the owner of such Sign who shall assume full responsibility for any consequences or damage caused by the Sign. Signs and supports must be removed or corrected within 30 days after the Building Official sends written notice that an unsafe or improperly maintained Sign condition exists.

Nonconforming Signs. Any existing nonconforming Sign or any Sign that becomes nonconforming as a result of the enactment or amendment of this chapter shall be subject to the provisions of § 345-901.

Signage in Shopping Centers.

[Amended 12-21-2020 by L.L. No. 3-2021]

(1)

Applicability.

(a)

This section shall apply only to the existing Buildings in Shopping Plazas constructed to the Effective Date of this chapter situated in the CD-4 General Urban Character District, on property greater than two acres.

(b)

Shopping Plazas built or substantially altered after the Effective Date, in other Districts, or below two acres, shall be subject to the Sign Standards located within § 345-701A through M.

(2)

Exceptions to Sign Standards. The following exceptions from the provisions of § 345-701 shall apply for preexisting Shopping Plazas situated in the CD-4 General Urban Character District, on property greater than two acres:

(a)

A Band Sign shall be attached to or incorporated in a Building wall above each tenant space. Such sign shall not:

[1]

Exceed two square feet in total area for each horizontal foot of such Wall on which it is mounted up to a maximum of 100 horizontal feet and an additional one square foot for each horizontal foot.

[2]

Be located above the second story of the Building Wall.

[3]

Exceed in width 75% of the horizontal measurement of the Wall on which it is mounted, except that where such measurement is 20 feet or less, the maximum width may be 90% of such measurement.

(b)

A detached or ground identification Sign may only be erected where the Building is set back from the street line a distance of 40 feet or more. A detached or ground identification Sign may be double-faced. Such Sign shall not:

[1]

Exceed 80 square feet in total area.

[2]

Exceed 18 feet in Height, measured from ground level.

[3]

Have less than three feet of clear space between the ground level and the bottom of the Sign board, provided that necessary supports may extend through such clear space.

[4]

Be set back less than 20 feet from any property line, except that if the average front Setback of existing Buildings within the same block is less than 10 feet, then the average Setback so established shall be applied to such Sign.

(c)

No interior Sign shall be erected or maintained in the window of a Building which is visible from outside except as follows:

[1]

One permanent, durably constructed and approved Sign no greater than 20% of the window area or eight square feet, whichever is smaller.

[2]

One permanent Sign indicating the hours of the establishment not greater than one square foot in area.

[3]

No Window Signs shall be so arranged as to prevent the viewing of displays or the interior of the space, except for temporary use of window space for Village or civic functions.

(d)

Business identification may be interior-lighted with nonglaring lights or may be illuminated by shielded floodlights or shielded neon tubing using a transformer with a maximum of 30 milliamperes; provided, however, that red and green lights shall be set back at least 75 feet from the point of the intersection of the street lines at a street corner, and further provided that any intermittent or flashing lights shall not be used on or in any sign. Per § 345-701H(2) and (17), moving or animated signs shall be prohibited.

(e)

Any provisions of § 345-701A through M that are in conflict or inconsistent with the provisions of this § 345-701N are hereby superseded to the extent necessary.