City of Bee Cave, TX Section 4.2 Sign Types And Definitions

§ 4.2.1 Prohibited signs.

The following signs are prohibited within the City Limits or the ETJ of Bee Cave.

A. Abandoned Sign		B. Attention-Attracting Device
A sign or sign structure, whether conforming or non-conforming as to type, size, or location, that is not used for twelve (12) consecutive months or more, in the case of a single building owned by the prior occupant or operator, or twenty-four (24) consecutive months in the case of a building or tenant space that is leased. A sign may become abandoned because it has no sign face or cabinet, or no characters, text, or symbols on its face, or because the building on the same property is vacant, or there is no building on the same property.		Signs, objects, or devices intended to attract the attention of the public that are installed on or in the ground, to a light pole or fence, or on the side or roof of a building, and that move, flicker, flap, flash, gyrate, or make noise using compressed air, wind, electrification, or other means. Attention-Attracting Devices include Air Dancers, pennant string flags, feather or sail banners, signs with a revolving beam, Beacon, or searchlight, signs with a light or lights resembling an emergency vehicle or traffic control signal, or as determined by the Planning Director.
Figure 4.2.1-1: Abandoned Sign on Vacant Building		Figure 4.2.1-2: Air Dancer
		Figure 4.2.1-3: Pennant Flags and Sail Banners
C. Balloon or Inflatable Sign		D. Bandit Sign and Snipe Sign
A non-porous envelope either tethered to the ground or to a building or structure, inflated with air that has been compressed, pressurized, or exhausted into the envelope, causing it to expand.		Any unauthorized sign placed in the ground or posted on a utility pole, official sign or support structure, traffic signal or support structure, signal box, fence, wall, barricade, tree, or other fixture in the public right-of-way or on public property. Any sign erected or painted on a tree, rock, or natural feature, or sign placed on a vehicle without the consent of the owner is considered a Bandit Sign. Temporary Signs that do not meet the requirements of Section 4.2.2 may also be considered Bandit Signs or Snipe Signs.
Figure 4.2.1-4: Balloon
E. Billboard		F. Cabinet Wall Sign
A sign typically erected in view of a major thoroughfare or highway and with one or more individual support poles and a sign face consisting of an opaque vinyl, fabric, or similar sign face stretched over a support structure or an Electronic Message Board (EMB).		A sign with a structure or shell (cabinet) containing the lighting elements and electrical components for light projection through a translucent medium or film supported or contained within the cabinet and on which the message of the sign is printed. Cabinet Signs are prohibited for use as Wall Signs but may be allowed for other types of signs under certain conditions (see Section 4.2.3 [4.2.2]).
Figure 4.2.1-5: Billboard
G. Dilapidated Sign		H. Changeable Message Board
A sign that is in an unmaintained condition evidenced by rust, peeling or missing paint, chipped or missing Masonry or mortar, one or more non-functional lighting elements, leaning or sagging footings or footings in need of repair, damaged or exposed wiring, missing characters, or overgrown vegetation.		Electronic Message Board (EMB). A panel consisting of individual electronic elements such as Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that when stimulated by electricity produce controlled light impulses to create a changeable message across a display area. Exception: EMBs may be permitted for Signs on Public School Campuses (see subsection 4.2.2.D.14) and for Order Board Signs not visible from a Right-of-Way (see subsection 4.2.2.E.8). Manual Message Board. A panel consisting of durable plastic or metal backing on which moveable characters are arranged by hand or hand-operated apparatus to create a message.
		Figure 4.2.1-6: Electronic Message Board (left)	Figure 4.2.1-7: Manual Message Board (right)
I. Pole Sign		J. Portable Sign
A sign placed on one or more individual poles or pylons for support, with the combined width of the support poles being less than the width of the sign		A sign mounted on a device that can be moved by a vehicle or by hand. Exceptions: Sidewalk Signs conforming to Section 4.2.3.C.11 [4.2.2.E.10], and signs, not including EMBs, that are mounted on a registered vehicle capable of moving under its own power or a trailer being actively towed by a registered vehicle.
Figure 4.2.1-8: Pole Signs		Figure 4.2.1-9: Portable Signs
K. Channel Letters		L. Reflective Sign
Individual characters or symbols mounted directly to the wall of a building or on a raceway, with internal or direct exterior illumination. Reverse-lit Channel Letters are allowed.		A sign other than a Traffic Control Sign or Official Sign with a coating, film, or other element that reflects light from an external source back toward the viewer.
Figure 4.2.1-10: Channel Letter Sign with Internal Illumination
Figure 4.2.1-11: Channel Letter Sign with Raceway
M. Painted Sign		N. Graffiti
A sign painted directly onto the building face other than a mural commissioned by the City or approved as part of an agreement between the City and a property or building owner.		A painted message, text, characters, symbols, or art applied to a building, wall, vehicle, or other surface without the approval of the property owner.
		Figure 4.2.1-12: Graffiti on a Building
O. Roof Sign		P. Reserved
A sign attached to the roof of a building or attached to the facade of a building but extending above the roof eave or parapet wall.
Figure 4.2.1-13: Roof Signs

(Ordinance 475 adopted 6/28/22)

§ 4.2.2 Permitted signs.

A. General provisions and exceptions.

Figure 4.2.2-1: Building and Permitted Sign Technical Terms Used in this Section

Building Facade: The entire side of a building from one corner to the other or that can be seen at one time by an observer standing on the property or an abutting property or rightof- way.

Tenant Façade: The portion of a Building Facade ascribed to and providing access to an individual tenant with a valid Certificate of Occupancy.

Building Frontage: The part of a Building or Building Facade that faces or parallels a street.

Sign Face: The external part of the sign designed to be viewed by the public and containing the message of the sign.

Tenant: The individual business or entity with a valid Certificate of Occupancy that occupies a physical space within a building.

Tenant Panel: The portion of the Sign Face allotted to a single tenant to display a message.

Tenant Space: A physical space within a larger building designed for occupation by a tenant with a valid Certificate of Occupancy.

1. The signs allowed under subsection 4.2.2.C are temporary signs not designed for prolonged exposure to sun, wind, or rain due to the supports lacking proper footings and the sign faces being made from wood or thin gauge metal construction or similar non-durable material not meeting the standards for a permanent sign. These signs should only relate to transient uses of property such as property that is for sale, a building that is under construction, or a new business.

2. The signs allowed under subsection 4.2.2.D are permanent signs that require secure attachment to the structure of a building or a concrete footing to withstand wind loads.

3. A business or property owner may not use a temporary sign as a substitute for a permanent sign.

4. Where a conflict exists between this Article 4 and a land use regulation or structural requirement or specification in this UDC or another regulation adopted by the City, such as the Building Code or Fire Code, the most restrictive requirement applies.

5. A lighting fixture illuminating a permitted sign does not count against allowable sign area; however, the illuminated area may not exceed 100% of the maximum allowed area for signage.

6. Exposed neon is prohibited except on a Lighted Window Sign or as otherwise specified in subsection 4.2.2.D.

7. Signage is not permitted to flash, blink, move, or change in color except as permitted for Signs on Public School Campus (see subsection 4.2.2.D.14).

8. The property owner or business must maintain any landscaping required for a sign under subsection 4.2.2.D to the same standard as other required site landscaping (See Article 5).

9. Photo examples used in this [sic] subsection 4.2.2.D are for illustrative purposes only and should not be solely relied upon for determining whether a proposed sign meets all requirements for that sign type. The photo examples used in subsection 4.2.2.D depict some signs that are outside of Bee Cave and the City cannot certify their conformance to this article.

10. If this Section 4.2.2 is silent regarding a type of sign, the sign in question is prohibited.

B. Alternative compliance. Certain types of signs in Section 4.2.2 contain alternative compliance measures that may be administratively approved. Other requests for variance must be approved according to subsection 4.3.3.

C. Temporary signs.

1. General provisions.

(i) The regulations of this subsection 4.2.2C apply to all uses equally. They are not intended to regulate or make any distinction regarding religious or political speech, or to impose restrictions on seasonal or religious decorations or symbols.

(ii) A reflective surface is prohibited on any temporary sign.

2. Temporary wall banner signs. In all Nonresidential and Mixed-Use districts, each nonresidential building or nonresidential tenant space within a building with a valid Certificate of Occupancy may install one (1) banner meeting the following:

(i) No banner shall exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in size or fifteen percent (15%) of the building facade or tenant space, whichever is greater;

(ii) The property owner or business must securely affix the banner to the side of the building. The property owner or business must remove, replace, or repair any torn or frayed banner, or any banner that is detached from the side of the building;

(iii) Banners are prohibited in the public Right-of-Way, on the side of a temporary building, trailer, fence, freestanding wall, or retaining wall;

(iv) Each building or tenant space is allowed no more than one (1) banner per calendar year for a period not to exceed fifteen (15) days;

(v) In addition to subsection 4.2.2C.2(iv), a tenant may display a banner for up to thirty (30) days at the time a Certificate of Occupancy is issued. The banner may not be used at the same time as any other temporary signage.

3. Temporary ground signs.

(i) In any district, each property is allowed one (1) temporary ground sign per road frontage per twelve (12) month period in compliance with this Subsection 4.2.2C.3.

Table 4.2-1: Temporary Ground Sign Size Matrix
Zoning District	Maximum Size Allowed
R-1, R-2, R-3 Platted	8 square feet
R-1, R-2, R-3 Unplatted or R-4, MU-N	24 square feet
AG, R-5, MU-C, MU-TC, CR, P, HCO	64 square feet

(ii) A Temporary Ground Sign shall not be used as a substitute for a permanent sign.

(iii) All temporary ground signs must have a solid, durable backing that resists folding or twisting, and be anchored or fastened to the ground.

(iv) The property owner or business must replace or re-set a temporary ground sign that twists or deflects more than three (3) degrees off center.

(v) The property owner or business must remove any temporary ground sign if the sign remains on a property for longer than six (6) months or if the sign becomes worn, faded, or damaged.

(vi) Signs that are not made using wood or thick-gauge steel frame construction are not framed or use wire construction must be removed after three (3) months.

(1) The Planning Director may grant a three (3) month extension to subsection 4.2.2C.3(v) if the sign is in good condition and the property on which the sign is located is actively listed for sale or at least one building that sits on the property is actively listed for lease.

(vii) Temporary ground signs are prohibited in the public Right-of-Way or on private property without the consent of the property owner.

(viii) Temporary ground signs must be located outside of the sight visibility zone (see subsection 6.4).

(ix) The size of a temporary ground sign shall not exceed the maximum square footage in Table 4.2-1:

4. Temporary window signs: See Section 4.2.2D.7(ii).

5. Temporary ground banners in residential districts.

(i) In a single-family residential district (R-1, R-2, R-3) or property developed for single-family residential use, one (1) temporary ground banner per road frontage for a period not to exceed fifteen (15) days once per six (6) month periods in compliance with this Subsection. Temporary ground banners are prohibited in all other circumstances.

(ii) A temporary ground banner shall not be used as a substitute for a permanent sign.

(iii) All temporary ground banners must not have a solid, durable backing but must resist folding or twisting and be anchored or fastened to the ground.

(iv) The property owner must remove, replace, or repair any torn or frayed banner, or re-set a temporary ground banner that twists or deflects more than three (3) degrees off center.

(v) Temporary ground banners are prohibited in the public right-of-way or on private property without the consent of the property owner.

(vi) Temporary ground banners must be located outside of the sight visibility zone (see subsection 6.4).

(vii) The size of a temporary ground banner shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet.

D. Permanent sign types. This subsection contains a listing and definition of all permitted permanent sign types (see subsection E. Permitted Sign Regulations for additional standards and photographic examples).

1. Wall sign.

(i) A permanent sign professionally constructed of durable, weather-resistant materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, high-density plastic, or acrylic, and installed to the structure of a building along a plane that is parallel to the building face to which it is attached.

(ii) The allowable size for a wall sign is determined by the size of the building to which the sign is installed and the amount of street frontage.

(iii) A wall sign may be combined with a hanging sign or blade sign for each tenant. An awning sign or canopy sign may be substituted for a wall sign but not used in addition to a wall sign.

(iv) For specific guidelines and standards, see subsection 4.2.2.E.1 [4.2.2.E.3].

2. Monument sign.

(i) Individual monument sign.

(1) A permanent sign professionally constructed with a metal support structure fastened to the ground and an exterior surface consisting of durable, weather-resistant materials such as thick-gauge architectural metal, brick, stone, or other masonry product. Monument signs are free-standing structures with a concrete footing and base that extends along the entire width of the sign at the lowest extent of the sign. Individual monument signs display only one message per sign face with up to two lines of text or symbols.

(2) The allowable size for an individual monument sign is determined according to the sizing matrix (Table 4.2-2, Monument Sign Sizing Matrix).

(3) One individual monument sign is permitted for each driveway access from a street.

(a) If a lot has street frontage but does not take direct access from the street it fronts, a building on the lot is permitted one single-tenant monument sign per street frontage.

(b) If a lot has no street frontage, it is not permitted to have an individual monument sign. However, the lot tenant(s) may utilize a tenant panel(s) on the multi-tenant monument sign located adjacent to the driveway that provides access to the lot, provided the owner of the lot on which the multi-tenant monument sign is located grants permission.

(4) For specific guidelines and standards, see Table 4.2-2, Monument Sign Sizing Matrix and subsection 4.2.2.E.1, Individual Monument Sign.

(ii) Multi-tenant monument sign.

(1) A permanent sign professionally constructed with a metal support structure fastened to the ground and an exterior surface consisting of durable, weather-resistant materials such as thick-gauge architectural metal, brick, stone, or other masonry product. Monument signs are free-standing structures with a concrete footing and base that extends along the entire width of the sign at the lowest extent of the sign. Multi-tenant monument signs display multiple messages per sign face with up to two lines of text or symbols per tenant panel.

(2) The allowable size for a multi-tenant monument sign is determined by the sizing matrix.

(3) A size bonus will be applied to a multi-tenant sign in the following circumstances:

(a) The tenants on the multi-tenant sign do not utilize a single-tenant monument sign on the same street frontage;

(b) The multi-tenant sign is located within fifty feet (50') of a shared driveway that provides access to the properties utilizing the multi-tenant sign;

(c) A perpetual cross access easement is recorded that provides access to any lot or property utilizing the sign; and

(d) A recorded agreement allowing use of the multi-tenant monument sign exists between the owner of the property on which the sign is placed and the tenants utilizing the sign.

(4) For specific guidelines and standards, see Table 4.2-2, Monument Sign Sizing Matrix and subsection 4.2.2.E.2, Multi-Tenant Monument Sign.

Table 4.2-2: Monument Sign Sizing Matrix
Classification of Abutting Roadway	Individual Sign i. Maximum Height ii. Maximum Sign Face per Side iii. Maximum Character Size	Multi-Tenant Sign i. Maximum Height ii. Maximum Sign Face per Side iii. Maximum Character Size (% sign face that allows each character size)	Size Bonus for Shared Driveway (applies to height and sign face only; see (3) above)
Highway/Arterial	i. 8' max height ii. 36 square feet max area iii. 30" characters	i. 12' max height ii. 120 square feet max area iii. 36" characters (67%) 24" characters (33%)	25%
Collector	i. 8' max height ii. 24 square feet max area iii. 30" characters	i. 12' max height ii. 72 square feet max area iii. 30" characters (67%) 24" characters (33%)	20%
Local	i. 6' max height ii. 18 square feet max area iii. 24" characters	i. 8' max height ii. 72 square feet max area iii. 24" characters (67%) 18" characters (33%)	10%

3. Awning sign.

(i) A sign applied to or printed on the vertical, hanging, portion of a covering stretched over a lightweight, nonstructural frame generally used for weather protection over a window or entryway.

(ii) An awning sign may not be used in conjunction with a wall sign along the same tenant facade.

(iii) For specific guidelines and standards, see subsection 4.2.2.E.4, Awning Sign.

4. Hanging sign.

(i) A permanent, two-sided sign professionally constructed and installed and made of a durable, weather-resistant product such as treated wood, metal, high-density plastic, or acrylic. Hanging signs hang perpendicular to the building from an awning, breezeway, or other structural feature to mark a building or tenant entrance.

(ii) A hanging sign may not be used in conjunction with a blade sign utilized by the same tenant in a multi-tenant building or on the same building facade of a single-tenant building.

(iii) A hanging sign may be utilized in conjunction with a wall sign but the size of the hanging sign counts against the size allowed for the wall sign.

(iv) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.5, Hanging or Blade Sign.

5. Blade sign.

(i) A permanent, two-sided sign professionally constructed and installed and made of a durable, weather-resistant product such as treated wood, metal, high-density plastic, or acrylic. Blade signs are mounted to and project from the side from a building to mark a building or tenant entrance.

(ii) A blade sign may not be used in conjunction with a hanging sign utilized by the same tenant in a multi-tenant building or on the same building facade of a single-tenant building.

(iii) A blade sign may be utilized in conjunction with a wall sign but the size of the hanging sign counts against the size allowed for the wall sign.

(iv) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.5, Hanging or Blade Sign.

6. Canopy sign.

(i) A sign similar in function, character, and construction to a wall sign but that is attached to a canopy structure that projects from the building facade rather than being attached to the building facade itself.

(ii) A canopy sign may be substituted for a wall sign but cannot be used in conjunction with a wall sign.

(iii) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.6, Canopy Sign.

7. Window sign.

(i) Permanent window signage.

(1) Permanent signage having the same function as a wall sign that is applied to a window using vinyl, permanent paint, etching, or similar treatment.

(2) For "open" signs and hours of operation, see ancillary signs (subsection 4.2.2.E.11).

(ii) Temporary window signage.

(1) A non-permanent, non-structural sign placed on or within two feet (2') of a building window so as to be visible to a person outside the building and made of lightweight printed materials.

(2) A building or tenant space with an active Building Permit may apply or place window signs covering up to 50% of the windows on the first floor of the building or tenant space for up to six (6) months.

(iii) Signs that are placed more than two feet (2') inside of a window are not regulated.

(iv) For specific guidelines and standards, see Table 4.2-3 and subsection 4.2.2.E.7, Window Sign.

Table 4.2-3: Window Sign Size Matrix
	Maximum % of single window pane	Maximum % of all windows (same building floor or tenant space)	Counts Against Wall Sign Allowance?
	(cumulative of all window signs)
Permanent Window Sign	30%	10%	Yes
Temporary Window Sign	80%	20%	No

8. Order board.

(i) An order board is a professionally constructed and installed sign made of a durable, weather-resistant product such as metal or high-density plastic and may include a two-way speaker system for ordering from a vehicle in a drive-thru lane provided the volume of the speaker does not exceed ambient noise conditions as measured at the property line. Order boards typically feature a changeable face on paper or plastic film or an electronic message board (EMB) within a permanent frame or cabinet.

(ii) Order boards are only permissible for locations that possess a Certificate of Occupancy for a Restaurant with a drive through.

(iii) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.8 Order Board and Menu Board.

9. Menu board.

(i) Menu boards are typically mounted near the sidewalk entrance to a restaurant where they are visible to pedestrian traffic. Menu boards are designed to change frequently and often feature a changeable face within a frame or cabinet attached to the side of a building or on a pedestal.

(ii) Order boards are only permissible for locations that possess a Certificate of Occupancy for a Restaurant.

(iii) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.8 Order Board and Menu Board.

10. Wayfinding sign.

(i) Permanent signs that are similar in character and construction to a monument sign that are placed near access points, intersections, and driveways within retail and mixed-use centers, campuses, and other areas with a high volume of vehicle traffic and multiple buildings or destinations.

(ii) Wayfinding signs as regulated in this section do not include signage that is intended for pedestrians and is not visible from a public street or internal driveway that functions as a street.

(iii) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.9 Wayfinding or Directional Sign.

(iv) For Directory Signs, see subsection 4.2.2.E.11 Ancillary Sign.

11. Directional sign.

(i) Permanent signs that are similar in character and construction to a monument sign that are placed near access points, intersections, and driveways near individual buildings in retail centers where traffic must follow a defined route to access the business or a driveway or drive-thru associated with the business.

(ii) Directional signs as regulated in this section do not include signage that is intended for pedestrians and is not visible from a public street or internal driveway that functions as a street.

(iii) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.9 Wayfinding or Directional Sign.

(iv) For Directory Signs, see subsection 4.2.2.E.11, Ancillary Sign.

12. Sidewalk sign.

(i) A type of temporary sign that is self-supporting with a lightweight, moveable frame and base and an erasable or changeable surface. Sidewalk signs are pedestrian-oriented and are not intended to be readable from a public street.

(ii) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.10, Sidewalk Sign.

13. Ancillary sign.

(i) Ancillary Signs are permanent signage secondary to the signage listed above and should not be readily noticeable to the driver of a vehicle or other viewer not directly looking at the sign.

(ii) For specific guidelines, see subsection 4.2.2.E.11, Ancillary Sign.

14. Signs on public school campus.

(i) Purpose. To permanently identify a Public School and convey information regarding the Public School's:

(1) Address;

(2) Name;

(3) Operations;

(4) Events on campus; and

(5) Events involving students attending the public school; and

(6) Competitive events involving students attending the public school.

(ii) Terms and definitions.

(1) Public school. A building or collection of buildings owned by Lake Travis Independent School District (LTISD) and in which students receive academic instruction in grade levels pre-K to 12. Properties owned [by] LTISD and that exclusively contain non-academic functions, including but not limited to athletics, fine arts, and performing arts, and administrative and operational support functions do not independently qualify as a Public School.

(2) Public school campus. A property comprised of one or more parcels or lots containing one or more Public Schools. In cases where a Campus contains more than one Public School, each Public School is eligible for monument signage pursuant to the parameters of subsection 4.2.2.D.2, Monument Sign.

(iii) Design. Public School Campus signs shall be monument type signs comprised of two components: a sign face and a sign base. The sign face shall include a fixed section and may also include an Electronic Message Board section. The sign shall be in accordance with the following provisions:

(1) Dimensions:

(a) Height.

1. Measurement methodology: Maximum sign height shall include the sum of the height of the sign base and sign face as measured from the ground immediately adjacent to the tallest portion of the sign. Sign height shall be measured in accordance with subsection 4.2.2.E.1, Individual Monument Sign. When a sign is installed on a slope, a sign's footing may not be exposed for more than 2 ft. above grade and any exposed footing must be screened by landscaping. An exposed portion of a sign's footing is not included in the measurement of sign height.

2. Total height max: 8'

3. Total max height of electronic message board: 5'6"

4. Sign base height: No less than 30% but no more than 50% of the height of the sign face.

(b) Width.

1. Measurement methodology: Sign width shall be measured as the greatest horizontal distance between any two points on the sign, irrespective of whether the points are part of the sign face, sign base, or a combination of the two.

2. Total max width: 16'

3. Total max width of electronic message board: 8'

4. Sign base width: a minimum of 100% of the width of the sign face.

(c) Proportion of size of fixed sign face to size of electronic message board face:

1. If a sign face includes an Electronic Message Board component, the square footage of the Electronic Message Board shall be no greater than 50% of the total square footage of the sign face.

2. Maximum character size on fixed sign: 12".

(d) Number and location:

1. A School Campus is permitted one monument sign on the public street that it abuts. If a School Campus has two or more public entrances on distinct, separate public streets, then an additional monument sign on the secondary street is permitted, subject to the following limitations.

2. No more than one electronic message board is permitted per School Campus. The Electronic Message board may only be a component of the monument sign located on the street providing primary access to the School Campus.

(e) Materials:

1. Except for the Electronic Message Board component of the sign, the materials of the sign base and face shall match or complement the primary building materials of the principal academic building. Materials are limited to be brick, stone, architectural concrete block, or a combination thereof and may include decorative architectural features that match or complement the primary academic building.

2. Colors: All materials used for the sign base or a fixed sign face shall be limited to muted earth tone colors. The display of an Electronic Message Board shall not include neon or other highly saturated colors that may be distracting to passing drivers.

(2) Lighting and display:

(a) Generally:

1. Sign illumination may not utilize any exposed light source such as exposed neon or fluorescent tubing nor bare incandescent bulbs.

2. All floodlights shall be shielded.

3. No sign be so illuminated that it interferes with traffic or with the effectiveness of, or obscures an official traffic sign, device, or signal.

4. The use of searchlights is prohibited.

5. All lighting will comply with the lighting and glare standards in Section 6.1 [6.2].

(b) Fixed section of sign face:

1. The fixed section of the sign shall be opaque, and no light shall generate through the fixed section of the sign; i.e., translucence is prohibited. Lighting should be of no greater wattage than is necessary to make the sign readable at night. The fixed section of a sign shall not be illuminated, in whole or in part, where the illumination is intermittent or varies in color or intensity from time to time.

2. Electronic message board portion of sign face:

3. Maximum brightness: Luminance levels of Electronic Message Boards shall not exceed the maximum values for Lighting Zone 1 provided in the table below.

Table 4.2-4: Maximum EMB Luminance
Lighting Zone (LZ)	Maximum Luminance measured in candelas per square meter or "nits" (cd/m2)
	Nighttime	Daytime
LZ 1	20	5000

(c) Nighttime hours shall commence no later than one hour after sunset and extend to one hour before sunrise. Non-nighttime hours shall be considered daytime.

(d) Light trespass. All Electronic Message Boards shall include a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and is programmed to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions.

(e) Technology. The technology currently being deployed for Electronic Message Boards is LED (light emitting diode), but there may be alternate, preferred and/or superior technology available in the future. Any other technology that complies with the illumination standards is permitted.

(f) An Electronic Message Board sign shall not:

1. Be illuminated by flashing, intermittent, or moving lights; or

2. Include audio, pyrotechnic, or bluecasting (Bluetooth advertising) components.

(g) Electronic Message Boards shall contain static messages only and shall not have movement or the appearance or optical illusion of movement during the static display period of any part of the sign. Each static message shall not include any flashing or the varying of light intensity, and the message shall not scroll or have any special effect transitions, including between each static display. Each static message on the sign must be displayed for a minimum of eight (8) seconds duration. Message changes shall be completed within one (1) second.

(h) Hours of operation: Electronic Message Boards shall shut off between the hours of 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM. The Electronic Message Board shall include an automatic shut-off mechanism to ensure that the sign is not illuminated during prohibited hours.

(i) Safety: An Electronic Message Board must include systems and monitoring to either turn the display off or show "full black" on the display in the event of a malfunction.

(iv) Landscaping:

(1) A landscaped area located around the base of the sign measuring not less than twice the area of the sign face is required.

(2) All landscaped areas shall be maintained in a neat and healthy condition so long as the sign is present.

(3) A plan showing the landscaping must be submitted by the applicant as part of the sign application, landscape plans must be consistent with any applicable City of Bee Cave landscaping ordinances.

15. City gateway signs.

(i) Purpose. To permanently identify the location of the City's municipal boundaries and/or city properties and to convey information regarding City's:

(1) Name;

(2) Address;

(3) Operations; and

(4) Public Events.

(ii) Design. City Gateway Signs shall be monument type signs comprised of two components: a sign face and a sign base. The sign face shall include a fixed section and may also include an Electronic Message Board section. The sign shall be in accordance with the following provisions:

(1) Design: City Gateway Signs shall be designed in accordance with Section 4.2.2.D.14(iii), except for Section 4.2.2.D.14(iii)(1)(d) number and location, which shall be governed by the following:

(a) Number and location:

1. A City Gateway is permitted to be located within 1,000 feet of the City's municipal limits, at the confluence of arterial roadways, or on city-owned or leased property on the public street that it abuts. If a city owned or leased property has two or more public entrances on distinct, separate public streets, then an additional City Gateway Sign on the secondary street is permitted.

(2) Landscaping: Landscaping for City Gateway Signs shall be in accordance with Section 4.2.2.D.14(iv).

E. Permitted sign regulations.

1. Individual monument sign.

(i) Permitted districts. Allowed in all districts (see Supplemental Standards)

(ii) How to calculate dimensions of sign face. The area contained by the smallest possible rectangle containing all characters and symbols.

(iii) Maximum sign area per side (max two sides). See Table 4.2-2, Monument Sign Sizing Matrix.

(iv) Maximum sign height. See Table 4.2-2, Monument Sign Sizing Matrix.

(v) Maximum sign width. No maximum.

(vi) Maximum number of signs. One (1) sign per driveway access (see subsection D.2(i)(3) above).

Figure 4.2.2-2: Acceptable Monument Sign Materials and Illumination
Figure 4.2.2-3: Unacceptable Monument Signs
Less than 30% masonry; backlit; changeable copy; more than two lines of text; base separated into two parts

(vii) Required spacing.

No more than 50 feet from a driveway.

If no driveway provides direct access to the lot, the sign must be at least 30 feet from another monument sign.

The Planning Director may permit an Individual Monument Sign to be placed in the Public Right-of-Way of a local street that provides access to a residential Subdivision.

(viii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Reverse projection illumination and external or indirect accent illumination is allowed.

The sign support and internal structure must be made of steel or equivalent material.

At least 30% of the external surface of the sign must consist of stone, brick, or plaster stucco with a Masonry or decorative rustproof or painted bronze or wrought iron cap or cornice feature at least 3 inches in height.

Changeable Message Boards are prohibited except for signs on a property used as a school or public building.

(ix) Required landscaping. Minimum landscaped area abutting the sign base measuring 2 square feet per 1 square feet foot of sign area. At least half of this area must be planted with native, pollinator-friendly flowers and the remainder with shrubs or native grasses.

(x) Supplemental standards.

The sign must display the street number and name.

Monument signs in R-1, R-2, and R-3 districts are allowed only on a platted Common Lot maintained by a Property Owners' Association or in a Public Right-of-Way with authorization by the City.

A digital sign displaying the price of fuel may be incorporated into a sign on the same lot as a business holding a Certificate of Occupancy for Gas Sales.

Alternative Compliance 1: A single slab or piece of natural stone may be used if the sign conforms to all other standards of this subsection.

Alternative Compliance 2: A monument sign may be incorporated into an object serving a purpose other than a sign, such as a retaining wall, terrace, or fountain, provided the sign face meets the height and dimensional standards of this subsection.

2. Multi-tenant monument sign.

(i) Permitted districts. R-4, R-5, MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR, P.

(ii) How to calculate dimensions of sign face. Sum the area contained by the smallest possible rectangle containing all characters and symbols of each individual tenant panel.

(iii) Maximum sign area per side (max two sides) See Table 4.2-2, Monument Sign Sizing Matrix.

(iv) Maximum sign height. See Table 4.2-2, Monument Sign Sizing Matrix.

(v) Maximum sign width. No Maximum.

(vi) Maximum number of signs. One multi-tenant monument sign per street frontage.

(vii) Required spacing. No more than 50 feet from a driveway and at least 50 feet from any other multi-tenant monument sign.

Figure 4.2.2-5: Acceptable Monument Sign Materials and Illumination
Figure 4.2.2-4: Unacceptable Monument Signs
Too many lines of text; No masonry; Too Many Colors

(viii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Reverse projection illumination and external or indirect accent illumination is allowed.

The sign support and internal structure must be made of steel or equivalent material.

At least 30% of the external surface of the sign must consist of stone, brick, or plaster stucco.

The upper third of the sign must be finished in Masonry or painted decorative rustproof or painted bronze or wrought iron matching the appearance of the building.

(ix) Required landscaping. Minimum landscaped area abutting the sign base measuring 2 square feet per 1 square feet foot of sign area. At least half of this area must be planted with native, pollinator-friendly flowers and the remainder with shrubs or native grasses.

(x) Supplemental standards.

The sign must display the address range accompanying any tenants listed on the sign.

Changeable copy or EMB is prohibited.

A multi-tenant monument must use consistent panel style and background color.

Alternative Compliance: Up to 100% rustproof or painted metal may be used in lieu of Masonry accent if at least two sides of the sign utilize vertical or horizontal articulation, are cantilevered over the sign base less than or equal to 1/3 of the sign's overall width, the sides are joined at less than or greater than 90 degree angles, or a combination of the above.

3. Wall sign.

(i) Permitted districts: R-4, R-5, MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR, P.

(ii) How to calculate dimensions. Calculate the area contained by the smallest possible rectangle containing all characters and symbols.

(iii) Maximum sign area per sign.

Area allowed based on frontage: multiply the linear feet of the building frontage for single-tenant buildings, or tenant frontage for multi-tenant buildings, where the main entrance is located by a factor of 0.50.

Area Allowed Based on Floor Space: multiply the building or tenant interior floor square footage, as applicable, by 0.002.

Figure 4.2.2-8: Maximum Wall Sign Separation from Building

Figure 4.2.2-6: Acceptable Wall Sign Materials and Illumination

Figure 4.2.2-7: Unacceptable Wall Signs

Internal Illumination; Exposed Raceway; Letters Affixed to Backer Panel, not Building Facade

(iv) Maximum sign height.

Maximum 30 inches per character or symbol.

Up to 12.5% of the average facade height.

Maximum two lines of text or symbols per sign.

(v) Maximum sign width.

Maximum 30 inches per character

Up to 67% of facade width, must meet required spacing

(vi) Maximum number of signs.

Single-tenant building: One per Public Entrance

Multi-tenant building: One per dedicated tenant Public Entrance

See Subsection D.1(iii) for use in combination with other sign types

(vii) Required spacing.

Must be centered on public entrance(s) of the building or tenant, as applicable

The maximum distance between the building facade and the sign face is 18 inches.

(viii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Illumination is restricted to halo or reverse projection onto the wall surface.

Lighting of sign face is prohibited.

Materials must be rustproof or painted metal or plastic individually cut reverse channel letters directly affixed to the building facade. Use of raceway is prohibited.

(ix) Supplemental standards. The Planning Director may issue a permit for a Wall Sign for a permitted nonresidential use located in a Residential Zoning District.

4. Awning sign.

(i) Permitted districts. MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR.

(ii) How to calculate dimensions of sign face. The area contained by the smallest possible rectangle containing all characters and symbols.

(iii) Maximum sign area.

Area allowed based on frontage: multiply the linear feet of the building frontage for single-tenant buildings, or tenant frontage for multi-tenant buildings, where the main entrance is located by a factor of 0.50.

Area allowed based on floor space: multiply the building or tenant interior floor square footage, as applicable, by 0.002.

(iv) Maximum sign height.

Maximum 24 inches per character or symbol.

Maximum two lines of text or characters per sign.

(v) Maximum sign width. Maximum 67% of awning width.

(vi) Maximum number of signs. One per awning; or, if an awning extends over two or more tenant spaces, one per tenant.

Figure 4.2.2-10: Acceptable Awning Sign

Figure 4.2.2-9: Unacceptable Awning Sign

Text too large and printed on non-vertical portion of awning

(vii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Internal or external illumination is not allowed.

An Awning Sign may shall not be reflective.

All characters, text, and symbols must be printed directly onto the exterior surface of the awning with a durable, weather resistant material that resists flaking or fading.

(viii) Supplemental standards.

Awning signs are permitted only on the first floor of a building at an angle to the face of the building (not rounded).

Text or symbols may only be placed on the portion of the canopy that hangs vertically.

The canopy must allow a minimum vertical clearance of 10 feet.

5. Hanging or blade sign.

(i) Permitted districts. MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR

(ii) How to calculate dimensions of sign area. The area contained by the smallest possible rectangle containing the entire sign.

(iii) Maximum sign area per side (max two sides). 6 square feet, subtracted from wall sign allowance (subsection 4.2.2.E.3 above).

(iv) Maximum sign height. No maximum.

(v) Maximum sign width.

If hung from a canopy or awning: Half the width of the sidewalk directly under the Hanging Sign.

If hung from the side of a building: 24 inches from the building face.

The maximum thickness of the sign between the sign faces is six (6) inches.

Figure 4.2.2-11: Acceptable Blade Signs (top) and Hanging Sign (bottom)
Figure 4.2.2-12: Unacceptable Hanging/Blade Signs
Freestanding Hanging Sign	Sign Hung Above First Floor

(vi) Maximum number of signs.

One Hanging Sign or Blade Sign per tenant.

Required Spacing.

Minimum ten (10) feet from another Hanging Sign or Blade Sign.

(vii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Internal or external illumination is not allowed.

A Hanging Sign may not be reflective.

All characters, text, and symbols must be printed, applied, or engraved directly onto the exterior surface of the sign with a durable, weather resistant material that resists flaking or fading.

(viii) Supplemental standards.

The furthest edge of the sign must be at least one (1) foot from the edge of a canopy or awning.

May not be installed above the first floor of a building unless the public entrance is on the upper floor.

Must allow a minimum vertical clearance of 7 feet.

6. Canopy sign.

(i) Permitted districts. R-4, MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR.

(ii) How to calculate dimensions. The area contained by the smallest possible rectangle containing all characters and symbols.

(iii) Maximum sign area.

Area allowed based on frontage: multiply the linear feet of the building frontage for single-tenant buildings, or tenant frontage for multi-tenant buildings, where the main entrance is located by a factor of 0.50.

Area allowed based on floor space: multiply the building or tenant interior floor square footage, as applicable, by 0.002.

(iv) Maximum sign height.

Maximum 30 inches per character or symbol.

Up to 12.5% of the average facade height.

Maximum two lines of text or symbols per sign.

(v) Maximum sign width.

Maximum 30 inches per character.

Up to 67% of facade width.

Must meet required spacing (see below)

(vi) Maximum number of signs.

Single-tenant building: One per Public Entrance, maximum of two signs.

Multi-tenant building: One per individual tenant's Public Entrance, maximum of two signs.

(vii) Required spacing. Must be centered on building canopy or entrance, or tenant canopy or entrance, as applicable.

Figure 4.2.2-13: Acceptable Canopy Sign

(viii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Illumination is restricted to halo lighting or reverse projection onto the canopy surface. Internal or direct lighting of sign face is prohibited.

Materials are limited to vinyl directly applied to the face of the canopy or rustproof or painted metal or plastic individually cut reverse channel letters.

(ix) Supplemental standards.

The maximum separation between the canopy and the sign is 18 inches.

Signage is not allowed on canopies used as weather protection for gasoline pumps.

7. Window sign.

(i) Permitted districts. MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR.

Figure 4.2.2-15: Acceptable Window Signs

Permanent Sign (Top); Temporary Sign (Bottom)

Figure 4.2.2-14: Unacceptable Window Signs

Window signs exceeding 30% of all windows

Signs Applied to Outside of Window

(ii) How to calculate dimensions. Sum the area of all window signs within the aggregate first-floor window area of the same building face.

(iii) Maximum sign area. See Table 4.2-3: Window Sign Size Matrix.

(iv) Maximum sign height. None.

(v) Maximum sign width. None.

(vi) Maximum number of signs. No Maximum.

(vii) Required spacing. Minimum six (6) inches from another window sign.

(viii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

No direct illumination or reverse lighting of a window sign is allowed.

Window signs must be placed inside the window and made of a durable material that resists warping, creasing, or fading, such as vinyl, wood, canvas, corrugated or reinforced plastic, or foamboard.

8. Order board and menu board.

(i) Permitted districts. MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR.

(ii) How to calculate dimensions. Sum the area of each panel.

(iii) Maximum sign area.

The total of all Order Boards on a single platted lot may shall not exceed 48 square feet.

The total of all Menu Boards may not exceed six square feet.

(iv) Maximum sign height. Eight (8) feet from the elevation of the nearest paved surface to the highest point of the Order Board or Menu Board.

(v) Maximum sign width. No maximum; however an Order Board used for a drive-thru lane must not encroach more than three (3) feet into the building setback.

(vi) Maximum number of signs. Two per business.

(vii) Required spacing.

No minimum spacing is required between signs.

No Menu Board is allowed more than 3 feet from the public sidewalk adjacent to the side of the building to which it is affixed.

An Order Board must provide no more than 3 feet and no less than 18 inches of horizontal separation from the curb or edge of the driveway the Order Board faces.

Figure 4.2.2-17: Acceptable Menu Board (top) and Order Board (bottom)

Figure 4.2.2-16: Unacceptable

No landscaping; Too close to curb

(viii) Required freestanding order board landscaping. Minimum landscaped area of 2 square feet per 1 square feet of sign area abutting the sign base. At least half of this area must be planted with native, pollinator-friendly flowers and the remainder with shrubs or native grasses.

(ix) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

On Menu Boards and Order Boards not utilizing EMB, no luminaire shall exceed 800 initial lamp lumens.

An Order Board cabinet must be made of painted metal or concealed by a border of at least 3 inches of stone, brick, or stucco.

A Menu Board cabinet may be constructed of painted or treated wood or painted or rustproof metal.

(x) Supplemental standards.

An Order Board that uses an EMB must be oriented or screened so that the surface of the EMB is not visible from a street or a Single-Family Residential property and meets the following criteria:

The EMB must have an automatic dimmer that adjusts the brightness to response to ambient natural light;

The brightness of the EMP shall not exceed 100 candelas per square meter between sunset and sunrise and not exceed 5,000 candelas per square meter between sunrise and sunset as measured under conditions of a full white display; and

The EMB must conform to all other International Dark Sky standards and the requirements of Section 6.2, Lighting.

9. Wayfinding or directional sign.

(i) Permitted districts. MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC, CR, P.

(ii) How to calculate dimensions. The area contained by the smallest possible rectangle containing all characters and symbols.

(iii) Maximum sign area.

Wayfinding signs: 6 square feet per sign.

Directional signs: 2 square feet per sign; maximum 1 line of text per sign.

(iv) Maximum sign height.

Wayfinding signs: 6 feet.

Directional signs: 24 inches.

(v) Maximum sign width.

Wayfinding signs: 4 feet.

Directional signs: 24 inches.

(vi) Maximum number of signs.

Wayfinding signs: 1 per intersection "leg" other than an intersection with a public street.

Directional signs: 2 per platted lot.

(vii) Required landscaping. Minimum landscaped area of 2 square feet per 1 square feet of sign area abutting the sign base. At least half of this area must be planted with native, pollinator-friendly flowers and the remainder with shrubs or native grasses.

Figure 4.2.2-19: Acceptable Wayfinding Signage (top) and Directional Signage (bottom)
Figure 4.2.2-18: Unacceptable Signs
No Masonry Accent	Exposed Junction Box

(viii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Halo illumination or direct external illumination is allowed. Internal illumination is prohibited.

A minimum of 15% of the exterior surface of the sign must be made of stone, brick, or plaster stucco.

(ix) Supplemental standards.

Each Wayfinding Sign or Direction Sign must be protected from impact by a street curb or bollard.

Conduit and junction boxes must be internal to the sign.

Wayfinding Signs and Directional Signs are prohibited along public streets.

10. Sidewalk sign.

(i) Permitted districts. MU-N, MU-C, MU-TC.

(ii) How to calculate dimensions. Sum the area of all changeable surfaces.

(iii) Maximum sign area per side (max two sides): eight (8) square feet.

(iv) Maximum sign height: 4 feet.

(v) Maximum number of signs: 1 per public building or tenant entrance.

(vi) Maximum sign width: three (3) feet.

(vii) Required spacing. Maximum 10 feet from the nearest public entrance to a building or tenant space.

Figure 4.2.2-20: Acceptable Sidewalk Signs
Figure 4.2.2-21: Unacceptable Sidewalk Signs
Plastic frame; oversized characters	Too far from building; frame behind sign

(viii) Acceptable illumination and sign materials.

Internal, external, or direct illumination is prohibited.

Sign frame must be made of treated or painted wood or rustproof metal such as aluminum or stainless steel. A plastic frame or frameless surface is prohibited.

(ix) Supplemental standards.

A Sidewalk Sign may be placed on a public sidewalk if it does not reduce the clear area of the sidewalk to less than five (5) feet.

The Sidewalk Sign may not be placed outside the building unless the building is open to the public.

Individual characters and symbols must be six (6) inches in height or less.

11. Ancillary sign. Ancillary Signs are permanent signage secondary to the signage listed above and should not be readily noticeable to the driver of a vehicle or other viewer not directly looking at the sign. Ancillary Signs do not require permits but must comply with the requirements of this Article 4.

(i) Building or Site Directory Signs A permanent sign measuring no more than 4 feet in height maintained by the owner of a multi-tenant building or development and situated on the side of a building or along a sidewalk for the purpose of directing pedestrian traffic to tenants within the building or development.		(ii) Open Signs A sign measuring 72 square inches or less that is hung on the interior face of a window or behind a window and that indicates whether a tenant or building is open or closed. An Open Sign may use electrification or neon but may not blink, flash, scroll, or utilize moving lights or characters.
Figure 4.2.2-22: Building Directory Sign	Figure 4.2.2-23: Site Directory Sign	Figure 4.2.2-24: Open Signs
(iii) Hours of Operation A listing of specific hours of operation of a building or tenant that is applied to a window. All characters and symbols must be white or black in color. Use of a Changeable Message Board is prohibited. An Hours of Operation Sign may be combined with an Open Sign if the total combined size of the sign does not exceed 72 square inches.		(iv) Service Entrance Sign A sign on a door that is intended only for employees, deliveries, service, or other use that is not open to the public. The combined size of all signs on a door may not exceed 10% of the door size and all characters and symbols must be black or white.
Figure 4.2.2-25: Hours of Operation Signs		Figure 4.2.2-26: Service Entrance Signs
(v) Private Traffic Control Signs Signs on private property that have the same function as Traffic Control Signs on public property. Private Traffic Control Signs must be unified in design throughout the property or development with characters and symbols that are similar to those shown in the Texas MUTCD. Each surface of the sign support, frame, and the back of the sign must be painted. Support poles may not be made from wood, U-channel steel, or bare galvanized metal.		(vi) Pavement Markings Pavement markings are used to supplement or substitute for Traffic control Signs. All pavement markings must be white, green, or yellow according to the equivalent shown in the Texas MUTCD.
Figure 4.2.2-27: Traffic Control Signs		Figure 4.2.2-28: Pavement Markings
Source: Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Revision 2, October 2014

(Ordinance 475 adopted 6/28/22; Ordinance 522 adopted 11/14/2023; Ordinance 534 adopted 5/28/2024)