(a)
Purpose. The purpose of this article is to:
(1)
Set out reasonable regulations for the design, location, installation, operation, repair, and maintenance of signs;
(2)
Provide for reasonable regulation while also safeguarding the constitutionally protected right of free speech;
(3)
Create content neutral sign regulations which balance the legitimate needs of individuals, entities, and organizations to convey messages with the legitimate objectives of the city to promote public safety, enhance community character and enhance private property values;
(4)
Create reasonable regulations as permitted by federal law on signage that could be viewed as obscene in order to protect the community, especially minors, from explicit messages which are harmful;
(5)
Prevent and reduce sign clutter which can have the negative consequences to the city which include, but are not limited to, the following:
(A)
Undue visual distractions which may create a public safety hazard for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians;
(B)
Degrading the aesthetic character of the city and therefore making the city less attractive for residents, visitors, commerce, and private investment; and
(C)
Physical obstructions within the public right-of-way which create public safety hazards;
(6)
Provide timely, fair, and consistent permitting and enforcement of signage throughout the city.
(b)
Applicability.
(1)
Generally.
(A)
All construction, relocation, enlargement, alteration, and modification of signs within the city shall conform to the requirements of this article.
(B)
This article applies only to signs that are integrated into, attached to, installed upon, or set upon the ground, a structure, landscaping, or a building.
(2)
Exemptions.
The following signs are exempt from the regulations of this article:
(A)
Signage affixed to or painted on vehicles;
(B)
Signage carried by people;
(C)
Signage posted by the city on property owned, leased, or licensed by the city;
(D)
Signage posted by governmental entities that are not subject to city jurisdiction, located on property owned, leased, or licensed by the governmental entity; and
(E)
Signage regulated by law or regulation in furtherance of the performance of a public duty or function (e.g., temporary or permanent traffic controls and street signs); or to give legal notice (e.g., notices of pending action pursuant to city ordinances).
(Ordinance 19-3690 adopted 4/23/19)








