(a) 
The regulation of signs and other forms of outdoor advertising within the city is necessary and in the public interest in order to protect property values; to preserve the beauty and unique character of the community; to promote and aid in the tourism industry which is of significant importance to the local economy; to protect the public from damage and injury which may be caused by the uncontrolled placement, location, and faulty construction of signs; to protect pedestrians and motorists from damage and injury caused or partially attributable to the distractions, obstructions, and visual clutter which are the result of improperly situated signs; and to promote the public safety, welfare, convenience, and enjoyment of travel and the free flow of traffic.
(b) 
The standards and regulatory procedures of this article are intended to regulate signs and other forms of outdoor advertising so that property located within the city, which may require signs or outdoor advertising, may derive benefits therefrom. Persons may display such signs and advertising provided such display is in accordance with this article.
(Ordinance 03-12 adopted 11/11/03)
In addition, provision is made as set forth in this article for limited off-premises placement and display of signs or outdoor advertising of products and services provided such off-premises signs conform, comply, and adhere to all federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
(Ordinance 03-12 adopted 11/11/03)
Menu board.
An off-premises sign designed to give information including a sign located near or on a commercial property site that provides drive-through window service.
Political sign.
A temporary sign used in connection with a local, state, or national election or referendum.
Portable sign.
A sign which is not permanently affixed to a building or to the ground and is capable of being moved or removed, and is primarily used for the purpose of advertising. This shall include, but not be limited to, any sign mounted on a trailer, vehicle, or mobile structure capable of being moved.
Signs.
Any object, device, display, structure, or part thereof which is used to advertise, identify, display, direct, or attract attention to an object, person, institution, organization, business, product, service, event, or location by any means, including words, letters, figures, designs, symbols, fixtures, colors, illumination, or projected images. Signs include, but are not limited to, banners, billboards, bulletin boards, directional signs, monuments, home occupation signs, menu boards, reader boards, and tenant directories as used and understood by their common definitions and interpretations.
(Ordinance 03-12 adopted 11/11/03)
(a) 
It is unlawful to place or maintain any permanent and temporary sign, signpost, advertising displays, merchandise or construction materials, or other obstruction within a public right-of-way or median except as provided immediately hereinbelow.
(b) 
The above provision of this section shall not apply to:
(1) 
Any pole or other object which is currently permanently in place within a public right-of-way or median unless, in the expert opinion of the police chief, such pole or object presents a public safety hazard;
(2) 
Any traffic-control sign or device erected or maintained by the city including, but not limited to, bus stop signs;
(3) 
Any sign, placard, or any other designated marker relating to the placement of public utilities; or
(4) 
Any temporary sign or device if placement of such sign has been approved in advance by the police department to insure that such sign does not create a visual or other obstruction within the public right-of-way or median. Should any person or persons not receive prior permission and/or such sign creates a traffic hazard and obstruction, said person shall be directed to remove such sign to a different location or immediately remove it.
(Ordinance 03-12 adopted 11/11/03)
The city may summarily and immediately remove any sign, signpost, advertising display, merchandise or construction materials, or other obstruction from within the limits of the public right-of-way or median. The city will keep the object for thirty (30) days after which it will be disposed of pursuant to state law.
(Ordinance 03-12 adopted 11/11/03)
Any person, firm or corporation violating any provision of this article or failing to observe any provision hereof shall be guilty of a class C misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be fined in accordance with the general penalty provision set forth in section 1.01.009 of this code. Each day such violation shall continue or be permitted to continue shall be deemed a separate offense.
(Ordinance 03-12 adopted 11/11/03)