A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this subsection is to establish a clear set of standards related to the placement and specifications of commercial signage within the City's jurisdictional area. The following regulations balance the need to protect the public safety and welfare, the need for a well maintained and attractive community, and the need for adequate identification, communication and advertising.
B. 
Objectives. The regulations have the following objectives:
1. 
To promote and protect the safety of persons and property by ensuring that signs do not create traffic hazards or impair motorists' ability to see pedestrians, other vehicles, obstacles or read traffic signs;
2. 
To promote the aesthetics, safety, health, morals and general welfare, and the insurance of protection of adequate light and air by regulation of the position, displaying, erection, use and maintenance of signs;
3. 
To allow for adequate and effective signs whose dimensional characteristics further the interests of public safety and the needs of the motorist, where signs are viewed from a street or roadway;
4. 
To promote the efficient transfer of general public and commercial information through the use of signs;
5. 
To enhance the overall appearance and economic value of the landscape, and preserve the unique natural environment that distinguishes the City and surrounding area;
6. 
To reflect and support the desired ambience and development patterns of the various zones, overlay zones, and plan districts and promote an attractive environment; and
7. 
To ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right of free expression is protected.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017)
A. 
A sign may be erected, placed, established, painted, created, or maintained in the City and Extraterritorial Jurisdiction only in compliance with the standards, procedures, exemptions, and other requirements of this subsection.
B. 
The effect of this subsection as more specifically set forth herein, is:
1. 
To establish a permit system to allow a variety of types of signs in commercial and industrial zoning districts and a limited variety of signs in other zoning districts, subject to the standards and the permit procedures of this subsection;
2. 
To allow signs that are small, unobtrusive, and incidental to the principal use of the respective lots on which they are located, subject to the substantive requirements of this subsection, but without requirements for permits;
3. 
To provide for temporary signs in limited circumstances;
4. 
To prohibit all signs not expressly permitted by these regulations; and to provide for the enforcement of the provisions of this Subsection 4.02.
C. 
Any person, firm, association of persons, corporation, or other organization violating any of the provisions of this Subsection shall be guilty of an offense under this Subsection and shall be subject to penalty as defined in section 1.01.05, Violations and Fines.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017)
A. 
Signs Requiring a Permit. Except as provided herein, no sign shall be placed, constructed, erected, or modified on a lot either within the City limits or the City's ETJ without obtaining a sign permit prior to the construction, placement, erection, or modification of such a sign in accordance with the requirements of section 4.02.05, Regulations.
B. 
Permits and Fees.
1. 
All signs requiring a permit shall be subject to a permit fee. The amount of the fee shall be established in the City's Fee Schedule.
2. 
A complete permit Application must be submitted prior to the issuance of any permit.
3. 
Incomplete permit Applications will not be accepted or issued a permit. Information in the Application which subsequently changes before the construction of the sign shall be updated by the Applicant and approved by staff.
4. 
No sign permit of any kind shall be issued for an existing or proposed sign unless such sign complies with the requirements of this Subsection (including those protecting existing signs) in every respect and with the Common Signage Plan in effect for the property, if applicable.
C. 
Sign Permit.
1. 
Within ten (10) days of receiving an Application for a sign permit or for a Common Signage Plan, the Development Services Director shall review it for completeness. If the Development Services Director finds that it is complete, the Application shall then be processed. If the Development Services Director finds that it is incomplete, the Development Services Director shall, within such ten (10) day period, send to the Applicant a notice of the specific ways in which the Application is deficient, with appropriate references to the applicable portions of the Subsection.
2. 
Within ten (10) days of the submission of a complete Application for a sign permit, the Development Services Director shall either:
a. 
Issue the sign permit, if the sign(s) that is the subject of the Application conforms in every respect with the requirements of this Subsection and of the applicable Common Signage Plan; or
b. 
Reject the sign permit if the sign(s) that is the subject of the Application fails in any way to conform to requirements of this Subsection and the applicable Common Signage Plan. In case of a rejection, the Development Services Director shall specify in the notice of rejection the portions of the Subsection or applicable plan with which the sign(s) is inconsistent.
c. 
If a permit is rejected, the Applicant may appeal the decision in writing within thirty (30) days of the rejection. Appeals must be addressed to the Development Services Director and identify a request for approval, and where applicable, an alternative form of compliance that meets the intent of this Subsection. Approval may be subject to review by the Sign Review Board.
3. 
On any Application for approval of a Common Signage Plan, the Development Services Director shall either approve the proposed plan if the sign(s) as shown on the plan and the plan itself conforms in every respect with requirements of this Subsection, or reject the proposed plan if the sign(s) as shown on the plan or the plan itself fails in any way to conform with the requirements of the Subsection. In case of a rejection, the Development Services Director shall specify in the notice of rejection the portions of this Subsection with which the plan is inconsistent. The Development Services Director shall take action on or before the following dates as applicable:
a. 
Fourteen days after the submission of a complete Application for existing buildings; or
b. 
On the date of final action on any related Application for building permit, site plan, or development plan for signs involving new construction.
4. 
Signs requiring a permit shall be erected, installed, or created only in accordance with a duly issued and valid sign construction permit from the City Manager. Such permits shall be issued only in accordance with the following requirements and procedures:
a. 
Permit for New Sign or Sign Modification. An Application for construction, creation, or installation of a new sign or for modification of an existing sign shall be accompanied by detailed drawings to show the dimensions, design, structure, and location of each particular sign, to the extent that such details are not contained on a Common Signage Plan then in effect for the lot. One Application and permit may include multiple signs on the same lot. Changing one panel on a multi-tenant sign is not considered a modification.
b. 
Inspection. The Development Services Director shall cause an inspection of the lot for which each permit for a new sign or for modification of an existing sign is issued during the sixth month period after the issuance of such permit or at such earlier date as the owner may request. If the construction is not substantially complete at the time of inspection, the permit shall lapse and become void. If the construction is complete and in full compliance with this Subsection and with the building, sign, and electrical codes, the Development Services Director shall issue a Certificate of Sign Inspection. If the construction is substantially complete but not in full compliance with this Subsection and applicable codes, the Development Services Director shall give the owner or Applicant notice of the deficiencies and allow an additional thirty (30) days from the date of inspection for the deficiencies to be corrected. If the deficiencies are not corrected by such date, the permit shall lapse and become void. Any incomplete structure shall be deemed a dilapidated sign and shall be subject to the provisions for removal under section 4.02.11, Abandoned Signs, Dilapidated Signs, and Sign Violations. If the construction is then complete and in compliance, the Development Services Director shall issue a Certificate of Sign Inspection.
D. 
Permit Expiration.
1. 
If the work authorized by a permit issued under this Subsection has not commenced within 180 days after the date of issuance, the permit shall become null and void.
2. 
Any permittee holding an unexpired permit may apply in writing for an extension of the permit, if the permittee is unable to commence work. The extension period shall not exceed 180 days. The permittee shall pay a fee for the extension of the unexpired permit. No permit shall be extended more than once.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017; Ordinance 2025-47 adopted 10/8/2025)
All signs not expressly permitted under this Subsection or exempt from regulation hereunder in accordance with this Subsection are prohibited in the City or its extraterritorial jurisdiction. Such signs include, but are not limited to:
A. 
Beacons;
B. 
Obscene signs;
C. 
Inflatable signs and tethered balloons;
D. 
Decorative flags (flags used as advertising displays, including but not limited to blade, feather, shark fin, solid, and teardrop flags);
E. 
Moving signs;
F. 
Off-premise signs (except City-owned directional signs);
G. 
Snipe signs;
H. 
Animated signs;
I. 
Portable signs;
J. 
Signs in the Right-of-Way, other than those installed by the City, State, or Federal government;
K. 
Human or hand-held signs not otherwise exempt;
L. 
Signs that imitate or resemble official traffic lights, signs, or signals, or signs that interfere with the effectiveness of any official traffic light, sign, or signal;
M. 
Signs on motor vehicles that are inoperable, do not display a current vehicle registration sticker or license plate, are not principally used as a mode of transportation for business purposes, or are conspicuously parked or located on a lot for more than twenty-four (24) hours; or
N. 
Signs attached, placed, or otherwise supported on or by trees, rocks, or other naturally-occurring landscaping features.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017)
Signs must meet all applicable standards as set forth herein and all City codes as amended, regardless of whether a permit is required.
A. 
Nonconforming Sign.
1. 
These regulations shall apply to all Nonconforming Signs. All Nonconforming Signs shall be brought into compliance with this Subsection in accordance with the provisions of these regulations.
2. 
Signs erected on a property prior to its annexation and not in compliance with this Code shall be considered Nonconforming Signs until such time as they are brought into compliance in accordance with this Subsection.
3. 
All Nonconforming Signs that were erected in violation of the ordinances of the City in existence at the time the sign was permitted or should have been permitted, and which violation was or has not been cured, shall, upon written notice, be required to be brought into compliance with this Subsection or removed within a reasonable time frame specified by the Development Services Director, but not to exceed thirty (30) days from the date of notice.
4. 
Nonconforming Signs that do not comply with the City Building Codes shall be subject to enforcement under the Building Codes, as well as this Subsection. Repairs or modifications required under the City Building Codes shall not entitle the owner of the Nonconforming Sign to compensation under this Subsection.
5. 
All Nonconforming Signs shall be subject to the following provisions:
a. 
Whenever a land use changes, any nonconforming sign must be modified so as to be in full compliance with these sign regulations.
b. 
Any Nonconforming Sign that has been destroyed or damaged to the extent that the cost of repairing the sign is more than sixty (60) percent of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at the same location shall be removed or shall be brought into compliance with this Subsection within six (6) months from receipt of an order from the Development Services Director, without compensation being paid by the City to the owner.
c. 
No Nonconforming Sign shall be required to be relocated or removed unless such Nonconforming Sign is more than sixty (60) percent destroyed or damaged as provided in subsection b above.
d. 
Any water storage device displaying signage existing at the date of this adoption is considered nonconforming and precluded from restoring any type of signage upon repainting of the water storage device.
B. 
Location. No signs shall be allowed in the public Right-of-Way except for those specifically licensed or permitted by the City, State or a political subdivision of the State exercising jurisdiction where the sign is located.
C. 
Construction. All signs shall be designed, constructed, and maintained in accordance with the following standards:
1. 
All signs shall comply with applicable provisions of the adopted versions of the City Building Codes, the National Electrical Code, and Section 4 of the Uniform Sign Code at all times.
2. 
Except for Temporary Signs, Public Event Signs, and Window Signs conforming in all respects with the requirements of this Subsection, all signs shall be constructed of permanent materials and shall be permanently attached to the ground, a building, or another structure by direct attachment to a rigid wall, frame, or structure.
D. 
Maintenance. All signs shall be maintained in good structural condition, in compliance with all building and electrical codes, and in conformance with this Code, at all times.
E. 
Obstruction of View.
1. 
No sign may be erected, constructed, maintained or allowed to remain that constitutes an obstruction to or which interferes with a clear line of sight of approaching motor vehicles.
2. 
No sign may be erected, constructed, maintained or allowed to remain that constitutes an obstruction to the view of pedestrians upon or entering a public or private street.
3. 
No sign may be located within the Sight Visibility Triangle (see Subsection 4.01).
F. 
Illumination. Illuminated signs are subject to the following requirements.
1. 
Any externally illuminated sign shall be fully shielded so as not to cast direct light or glare onto any residential district or create a safety hazard, including distraction of vehicle operators or pedestrians in the public Right-of-Way.
2. 
All signs that are illuminated between sunset and sunrise must comply with the following:
a. 
Luminance levels for operation shall note exceed 100 nits (100 candelas per square meter, cd/rn2), regardless of the method of illumination, as measured on the brightest part of the sign.
b. 
A sign that is designed to emit a luminance level exceeding 100 nits must have an automatic dimmer control that reduces the luminance to no more than 100 nits during the time between sunset and sunrise.
c. 
The luminous or illuminated surface area of an individual sign must not exceed 200 square feet.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017; Ordinance 2025-27 adopted 4/15/2025; Ordinance 2025-28 adopted 5/6/2025; Ordinance 2025-47 adopted 10/8/2025)
A. 
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs shall only be permitted by right in nonresidential zoning districts with the exception of institutional uses such as religious assemblies, educational facilities, government administration and civic buildings, and public parks that may be permitted in additional zoning districts provided that all standards of subsection C, D and E below are met.
B. 
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs must meet all of the following requirements:
1. 
Placement and Location.
a. 
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs are permitted only in the Interstate-35 Business (B-3) District and within 300 feet of I-35 by right. See subsection C below for other areas.
b. 
No more than one Changeable Electronic Variable. Message Sign shall be allowed per lot.
c. 
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs shall be designed as Monument Signs.
d. 
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs shall be located at least three hundred fifty (350) feet away from a property with any residential zoning designation.
e. 
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs shall be located at least seven hundred fifty (750) feet away from a property designated as a Historic Landmark or within the Historic Overlay (O-H) District.
2. 
Display and Illumination. Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs must meet the following criteria:
a. 
Hard maximum of 12 square feet;
i. 
For purposes of calculating area of a monument sign, the Changeable Electronic Variable Message Sign counts four times;
b. 
Constructed such that the sign does not face, shine, or reflect light in any manner or angle into a property with any residential zoning designation or use;
c. 
Maximum daytime NITs of 5,000; maximum nighttime NITs of 500;
d. 
Provide a minimum display time for each static image of at least six (6) seconds.
e. 
No display of a solid white background;
f. 
A static display with no animation, virtual movement, flashing or multimedia/video;
g. 
No special effect transitions between each static display; and
C. 
A request to permit an Changeable Electronic Variable Message Sign in areas not within the Interstate-35 Business (B-3) District or within 300 feet of I-35 meeting all of the other above requirements may be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission based on the following criteria:
1. 
The potential for interference with the enjoyment of the use of surrounding properties and compatibility with land uses;
2. 
The zoning district and the adjoining zoning districts of the property for which the Changeable Electronic Variable Message Sign is sought;
3. 
Whether the request is harmonious with the public interest;
4. 
Consistency with the purposes of this Code;
D. 
Under no circumstance may an off-premise sign be converted to an Changeable Electronic Variable Message Sign.
E. 
An Changeable Electronic Variable Message Sign may not exceed seventy-five (75) percent of the total sign area for any Monument Sign.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017)
A. 
Sign Area. Sign area shall be calculated in square feet, and by means of the smallest square, circle, rectangle, or combination thereof that will encompass the sign face.
Figure 63. Sign Area Calculation
B. 
Calculation of Area of Multifaceted Signs. The sign area for a sign with more than one face shall be calculated by adding together the area of all sign faces visible from any one point. When two identical sign faces are placed back-to-back, so that both faces cannot be viewed from any point at the same time, and when such sign faces are part of the same sign structure and are not more than forty-two (42) inches apart, the sign area shall be calculated by the measurement of one of the faces.
C. 
Sign Height. Sign height shall be measured in linear feet. The overall height of a Freestanding Sign or other sign structure is measured from the lowest grade level within ten (10) feet of the base of the sign to the highest point of the Freestanding Sign or other sign structure.
Figure 64. Sign Height
D. 
Sign Width. Sign width shall be measured in linear feet from the farthest outermost point on each side of a sign.
E. 
Setbacks. Setbacks shall be measured in linear feet from property lines.
F. 
Spacing. A minimum distance of fifty (50) feet must be maintained between all Freestanding Signs. The spacing requirement applies to all signs on a single lot and the distance to the nearest sign on an adjacent lot.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017)
A. 
Signs Permitted by Zoning District. Table 38. Signs Permitted by Zoning District identifies zoning districts within the City limits where each sign type is permitted.
1. 
Permitted (•) indicates that the sign type is permitted by right in the zoning district. If a cell is blank, this indicates the sign type is not permitted in the zoning district. For example, if a sign is seeking placement on a property in both the Interstate-35 Business (B-3) District and the Gateway Overlay (O-G) District, then the more restrictive standards and permitted sign limitations shall apply.
2. 
To preserve the character of residential zoning districts, commercial signs are not permitted in Estate Residential (R-1) District through Urban Residential (R-5) District.
a. 
Signs may be allowed in residential zoning districts for institutional uses such as religious assemblies, educational facilities, government administration and civic buildings, and public parks.
b. 
The sign standards for these uses shall be based on Neighborhood Business (B-1) District/Arterial Business (B-2) District/Interstate-35 Business (B-3) District standards applicable to the respective sign type.
Table 38. Signs Permitted by Zoning District
AG
R-1
R-2
R-3
R-4
R-5
R-MH
B-1
B-2/ETJ
B-3
LI
HI
O-G
O-R
F3
F3-H
F4
F4-H
F5
F5-H
Pole and Pylon Sign
•
•
•
Monument Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Wall Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Projecting Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hanging Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Marquee Sign
•
•
•
•
•
Awning Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Canopy Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Window Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Sidewalk Sign
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
B. 
Pole and Pylon Sign.
Single
Multi
Area Max (sq ft)
B-3, LI, HI
75
100
Height Max (ft)
B-3, LI, HI
35
35
Within 400' of residential, no taller than the primary structure (if structure blocks view from residential) or 25', whichever is less.
Width Max (ft)
N/A
N/A
Number of Signs
Signs per lot, max
1
1
Setbacks and Spacing
Interior property lines, min. (ft)
10
10
Illumination
Internal Only
Vertical Clearance from Grade
Min. (ft)
10
10
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
See section 4.02.06.
1. 
Description. A Pole and Pylon Sign is a sign supported by a single or multiple poles. Sign supports may include an exposed pole or concealed support.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
For requirements regarding Multi-Tenant Pole and Pylon Signs, refer to section 4.02.10, Common Signage Plan.
b. 
Changeable Copy Signs are permitted.
C. 
Monument Sign.
Single
Multi
Area Max (sq ft)
R-4, R-5, R-MH, B-1, O-H, O-R
35
35
B2, (ETJ), LI, HI, O-G, F4, F4H
50
75
B-3
100
100
Height Max (ft)
R-4, R-5, B-1, O-H, O-R, F3
12
12
B2, (ETJ), LI, HI, O-G, F4, F4H
12
12
B-3
12
12
Width Max (ft)
15
25
Number of Signs
Signs per lot, max
1
1
Setbacks and Spacing
Interior property lines, min. (ft)
10
10
Illumination
Internal or External
Vertical Clearance from Grade
N/A
N/A
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
See 4.02.06.
1. 
Description. A Monument Sign is a Freestanding Sign attached to a pedestal or perimeter wall.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs may not exceed seventy-five (75) percent of the total sign area;
b. 
Sign area does not include the base or pedestal, or address block. See Figure 63. Sign Area Calculation;
c. 
Monument Signs in the Estate Residential (R-1) District, Suburban Residential (R-2) District, or One & Two Family Residential (R-3) District residential zoning districts must meet standards for Neighborhood Business (B-1) District/Historic Overlay (O-H) District, and must be located on property owned by the Homeowners' or Property Owners' Association.
d. 
Changeable Copy Signs are permitted.
D. 
Wall Sign
Total Wall Area Max (%)
Individual tenant space
25
Height Max
Not to exceed height of building
Width Max (%)
Individual tenant space
75
Number of Signs
None
Setbacks and Spacing
Interior property lines, min. (ft)
10
Illumination
Internal or External
Vertical Clearance from Grade
N/A
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Not allowed
1. 
Description. A Wall Sign is a sign that is attached flat to or mounted away from, but parallel to, any exterior wall of a structure.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
Maximum distance between the wall and sign is eighteen (18) inches.
b. 
Exposed raceways must be as narrow as possible. Wireways are preferred.
c. 
Wall signs may only be placed on wall areas which enclose occupiable space within a building. Wall signs on parapet walls may be allowed at the discretion of the Planning Director.
d. 
Multiple Wall Signs are permitted however, the total area must not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the total facade/wall area of the building.
e. 
Changeable Copy Signs are permitted.
f. 
Roof Signs shall be treated as Wall Signs for the purpose of this Subsection, provided such sign shall not extend above the roof peak by more than six (6) feet and its area shall not exceed fifteen (15) percent of the exterior wall elevation over which the roof sign is oriented.
E. 
Projecting Sign.
Area Max (sq ft)
Total sign area
35
Height Max
Not to exceed height of building
Width Max (ft)
3
Number of Signs
Signs per building face, max
1
Illumination
Internal Only
Vertical Clearance from Grade
Min. (ft)
8
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Not allowed
1. 
Description. A Projecting Sign is a two-sided sign that projects outward from the exterior wall of a structure into the pedestrian realm.
2. 
Specific Standards.
a. 
Projecting Signs shall not project more than two-thirds of the width of the abutting sidewalk.
b. 
If a Wall Sign is already permitted for the building, then the Projecting Sign shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the maximum allowable sign area for the building.
c. 
Changeable Copy Signs are permitted.
F. 
Hanging Sign.
Area Max (sq ft)
Total sign area
6
Number of Signs
Signs per building face, max
1
Illumination
None
Vertical Clearance from Grade
Min. (ft)
8
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Not allowed
1. 
Description. A Hanging Sign is a two-sided sign that hangs down from an awning or similar structure extending outward from the exterior wall of a structure into the pedestrian realm.
2. 
Specific Standards.
a. 
Hanging Signs must be placed at least one (1) foot from the edge of the awning or cover.
G. 
Marquee Sign.
Total Wall Area Max (%)
50
Height Max (ft)
Exceed height of building
10
Width Max (%)
Individual tenant space
75
Number of Signs
Max, per building
1
Setbacks and Spacing
Setbacks
N/A
Illumination
Internal or External
Vertical Clearance from Grade
Min. (ft)
10
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
See 4.02.06.
1. 
Description. A Marquee Sign is a sign attached to the top or the face of a permanent roof-like structure constructed over a ground-floor main entrance.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
Changeable Copy Signs are permitted.
b. 
Marquee Signs may only be permitted for movie or performance theatres.
H. 
Awning Sign.
Area Max (sq ft)
25
Height Max (ft)
Not to exceed height of building
Width of Awning Sign Copy
Max (%)
75
Number of Signs
Awning signs per building face, max
N/A
Setbacks and Spacing
Setbacks
N/A
Illumination
None
Vertical Clearance from Grade
Min. (ft)
10
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Not allowed
1. 
Description. An Awning Sign is a sign printed on any of the surfaces of an awning, and which may include an under-awning sign attached to and mounted under the awning.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
Awning Signs are only permitted on the first floor of a building.
b. 
If Wall Signs are present on the same building face, awning copy counts towards the total allowable sign area.
c. 
Lettering and logos may be located on both the valance and canopy of an awning.
I. 
Canopy Sign.
Total Window Area
Max (%)
50
Height Max (ft)
4
Width of Canopy Max (%)
75
Number of Signs per Building Face
Max
1
Setbacks and Spacing
Setbacks
N/A
Illumination
Internal or external
Vertical Clearance from Grade
Min. (ft)
10
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Not allowed
1. 
Description. A Canopy Sign is a sign attached above, below, or to the face of a canopy, and which may include an under-canopy sign attached to and mounted under the canopy.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
Canopies may be installed on building facades and shall count toward the maximum allowable Wall Sign area.
b. 
Canopies shall comply with all applicable ordinances, including building codes.
J. 
Window Sign.
Total Wall Area Max (%)
25
Height Max (ft)
N/A
Width Max (ft)
N/A
Number of Signs
Signs per building face, max
N/A
Setbacks and Spacing
Setbacks
N/A
Illumination
None
Vertical Clearance from Grade
Min. (ft)
N/A
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Not allowed
1. 
Description. A Window Sign is generally affixed to a window for the purpose of being viewed from the exterior of a building.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
Window Signs may only be permitted on the first floor of building.
b. 
Displays located in a window such as mannequins are not considered window signs.
K. 
Sidewalk Sign.
Area Max (sq ft)
6
Height Max (ft)
4
Width Max (ft)
N/A
Number of Signs
Signs per business, max
1
Setbacks and Spacing
Setbacks
N/A
Illumination
None
Vertical Clearance from Grade
N/A
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Not allowed
1. 
Description. A Sidewalk Sign is generally temporary in nature and intended to be viewed from the pedestrian realm.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
Sidewalk Signs must be placed directly in front of the premises that owns and is placing the sign within ten (10) feet of the building entry.
b. 
Sidewalk Signs must be removed when the business is closed.
c. 
Sidewalk Signs must allow for a minimum of four feet of clearance as per ADA standards.
d. 
Prior to issuance of a Sidewalk Sign permit, Applicants must submit an executed indemnification form to the City.
e. 
Changeable Copy Signs are permitted.
L. 
Drive-Thru or Drive-In Sign.
Area Max (sq ft)
Drive-thru (per sign face)
60
Drive-In (per sign face)
9
Height Max (ft)
6
Width Max (ft)
N/A
Number of Signs
Signs per drive-thru lane, max
1
Signs per drive-in ordering station, max (2-sided allowed)
1
Setbacks and Spacing
Setbacks
N/A
Illumination
Internal or External
Vertical Clearance from Grade
N/A
Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs
Allowed
1. 
Description. A sign erected in conjunction with a use that incorporates a drive-thru or drive-in, placed adjacent to a drive-thru lane or drive-in parking space to be read by patrons in a vehicle.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
A drive-thru or drive-in sign shall only be allowed on property zoned to allow a drive-thru or drive-in use by right or by specific use permit. A sign permit for such sign shall not be issued until a specific use permit, if required, is issued.
b. 
A drive-thru or drive-in sign can be a Changeable Electronic Variable Message Sign (CEVMS) and is exempt from 4.02.06.
c. 
A drive-thru sign shall be supported from the grade to the bottom of the sign having or appearing to have a solid base. The design, materials, and finish of the sign shall match those of the building(s) on the same lot.
d. 
A drive-in sign shall be supported from the grade to the bottom of the sign having or appearing to have a solid base. If the drive-in stalls are covered by a canopy, the drive-in sign may be attached directly to the canopy support columns. The design, materials, and finish of the drive-in sign shall match of those of the building(s) on the same lot.
e. 
A drive-thru or drive-in sign that engages a speaker or other form of audible communication between the vehicle and store shall conform to all noise and nuisance regulations of the City of Buda.
M. 
Temporary Sign.
1. 
Temporary Signs, including banners, on private property shall be allowed only upon the issuance of a Temporary Sign Permit unless otherwise noted in this subsection, shall not be a prohibited sign, and shall be subject to the following requirements:
a. 
Term. A Temporary Sign Permit shall allow the use of a Temporary Sign for a specified thirty (30) day period.
b. 
Number. Only one Temporary Sign Permit shall be issued on a lot during any consecutive four (4) month period.
c. 
Exemptions. A Temporary Sign is allowed for an additional thirty (30) day period from the time a Certificate of Occupancy is issued without obtaining a Temporary Sign Permit.
2. 
Signs for Properties in a State of Functioning as a Model Home. Temporary Signs not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height may be erected on a lot containing a home during the time period the home is being used as a model for the construction of new residential homes.
3. 
Size. Temporary Signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
N. 
Public Event Sign.
1. 
Description. A temporary, off-premises sign that is associated with a publicly permitted/sponsored/hosted/funded event. These signs are not permanently mounted.
2. 
Special Standards.
a. 
An Event Sign Permit shall allow the use of a Public Event Sign.
b. 
Only events related to the City, Hays or Travis counties, local school districts, local emergency services district, or other public agencies as approved by the City Manager may be classified as a publicly permitted/sponsored/hosted/funded event.
c. 
Public Event Signs may only be placed within City-owned facilities in the Right-of-Way, or on City-owned property at locations approved by the City Manager.
d. 
Public Event Signs may be posted up to thirty (30) days prior to the event but must be removed from the premises within twenty-four (24) hours of the event's conclusion.
e. 
Other regulations regarding event signage shall be determined by the City Manager.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017; Ordinance 2021-10 adopted 4/20/2021; Ordinance 2023-03 adopted 5/2/2023; Ordinance 2025-28 adopted 5/6/2025)
The following signs, if located on private real property with the consent of the property owner (unless otherwise stated) are exempt from regulation under this Subsection:
1. 
Public Signs. Any public notice, warning or traffic control device required by federal, state or local law, regulation, or ordinance, including those on public property;
2. 
Signs on Properties in a State of Being for Sale or Lease. Up to two (2) temporary signs not exceeding six square feet in area and three feet in height when posted in residential zoning districts, or temporary signs not exceeding 64 square feet in area and 12 feet in height when posted in other zoning districts, when posted during time periods when the property on which the signs are located is for sale or lease, and such signs do not remain more than seven (7) days after the property is sold or leased;
3. 
Signs on Properties in a State of Construction. Up to two (2) temporary signs placed on construction sites not exceeding 64 square feet in area after approval of a site plan, and which do not remain erected for more than seven (7) days after the completion of the construction project;
4. 
Works of Art. Works of art that do not include a commercial message, including painted or applied wall accents and decorations;
5. 
Holiday Lights. Holiday lights and decorations with no commercial message;
6. 
Incidental Signs. Traffic-control signs on private property, such as stop, yield, and similar signs, the face of which meet Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices standards and that contain no commercial message of any sort, and similar incidental signs related to internal traffic flow;
7. 
Residential Signs.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017; Ordinance 2021-10 adopted 4/20/2021)
A. 
A Common Signage Plan applies to two different development scenarios:
1. 
Multi-Tenant Center or One Lot with Multiple Buildings (required); and
2. 
Multiple Adjacent Lots (optional).
B. 
Multi-Tenant Center or One Lot with Multiple Buildings.
1. 
For the purposes of this section, "multiple buildings on one lot" does not include accessory buildings.
2. 
Common Signage Plan shall contain the following information:
a. 
An accurate plot plan of the lot(s) at a minimum 1" =20' scale, or as approved by the City;
b. 
The location of buildings, parking lots, driveways, landscaped areas on such lot, and any other information as required by the City;
c. 
Calculation of the maximum total sign area, the maximum area for individual signs, the maximum height of signs and the maximum number of Freestanding Signs allowed on the lot under this Subsection;
d. 
An accurate indication on the plan of the proposed location of each present and future sign of any type, regardless of whether a permit is required; and
e. 
An accurate depiction of the sign structure and materials, specifying standards for consistency among all signs on the lot(s) affected by the plan with regard to color scheme, lettering or graphic style, lighting, location of each sign on the buildings, materials, and sign proportions.
3. 
No more than one (1) Freestanding Sign shall be allowed for each street on which the lot has frontage.
a. 
These signs must provide for shared or common usage of such signs.
b. 
Lots having more than three hundred (300) feet of street frontage on a single street may have one (1) Freestanding Sign per two hundred (200) feet of frontage beyond three hundred (300) feet.
4. 
If the signage in the plan meets all requirements listed above, then a twenty (20) percent increase in the maximum sign area shall be allowed for each sign, excluding Freestanding Signs.
C. 
Multiple Adjacent Lots.
1. 
Common Signage Plans are encouraged but not required for adjacent lots.
2. 
In addition to the requirements for a Common Signage Plan, the Applicant must also submit the following information intended to ensure consistency among signs:
a. 
Color scheme.
b. 
Lettering or graphic style.
c. 
Lighting.
d. 
Location of each sign on the building.
e. 
Material.
f. 
Sign proportions.
D. 
Existing Signs Not Conforming to Common Signage Plan.
1. 
If any new or amended Common Signage Plan is filed for a property on which existing signs are located, it shall include a schedule for bringing all signs into compliance with this Subsection within three (3) years from the date of approval of the plan or amended plan.
2. 
Common Signage Plan may contain such other restrictions as the owners of the lots may reasonably determine.
E. 
Consent. The Common Signage Plan shall be established by all owners or their authorized agents in such form as the Development Services Director may require.
F. 
Procedures. A Common Signage Plan shall be included in any development plan, site plan, planned unit development plan, or other official plan required by the City for the proposed development and shall be processed simultaneously. The Development Services Director may review the Common Signage Plan and approve it provided it meets all requirements of this Subsection. Otherwise he may approve it with conditions; or may deny the plan.
1. 
Amendment. A Common Signage Plan may be amended by filing a new Common Signage Plan that conforms with all requirements of this Subsection.
2. 
Binding Effect. After approval of a Common Signage Plan, no sign shall be erected, placed, painted, or maintained, except in compliance with such plan, and such plan may be enforced in the same way as any provision of the Subsection. In case of any conflict between the provisions of such a plan and any other requirement of this Subsection, this Subsection shall control.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017; Ordinance 2025-47 adopted 10/8/2025)
A. 
The owner of any premise on which there is displayed or maintained any abandoned or dilapidated signs shall comply with the following requirements:
1. 
The owner of any dilapidated sign shall remove the sign within thirty (30) days after receiving written notice from the Development Services Director or the adoption of this Subsection, whichever is later;
2. 
The owner of a supporting structure used or designed to be used with a dilapidated sign shall remove the supporting structure within thirty (30) days after receiving written notice from the Development Services Director.
3. 
If an abandoned supporting structure does not have a can, frame, or similar part of the supporting structure that would hold the sign or to which the sign would be attached, the supporting structure shall be removed or made to comply with the provisions of the Subsection.
4. 
Any modifications, alterations or changes to an abandoned sign or supporting structure shall be made in full compliance with the requirements of this Subsection.
5. 
Any dilapidated sign or dilapidated supporting structure not in compliance with this Subsection is an unlawful sign and may be removed by the City in compliance with subsection C below and the owner may be prosecuted or be enjoined from continuing such violation.
6. 
If a sign that conforms to the regulations of this Subsection is abandoned, the owner, user, and persons who benefit from the sign and the owner, operator, and tenants of the property on which the sign is located shall remove it, paint out or cover the message portion of the sign, put a blank face on the sign, or otherwise bring it into compliance with this Subsection so as to leave the message portion and supporting structure neat and unobtrusive in appearance, within ninety (90) days after receiving written notice from the Development Services Director.
B. 
The following are required for the use, display, maintenance, or permitting of an alteration of any abandoned sign or supporting structure regardless of when the sign was abandoned:
1. 
Like Material. Only the same like, or better quality material as that being replaced shall be used as a face on or in the abandoned sign. The face of the supporting structure must be one that the supporting structure is designed to support.
2. 
Covered Messages.
a. 
Abandoned signs may be painted in order to "blank" the face.
b. 
However, the paint must completely cover the sign face or message portion of the structure. The covered, painted over message must not show through the paint.
c. 
Covered sign faces must be of a material or substance that renders the resulting sign face completely blank, opaque, and resistant to deterioration. It is a violation of these regulations to allow a covered message to bleed or show through the paint or covering.
d. 
Routed, embossed, or raised messages or sign copy must not be visible to the ordinary observer, if the face or message is blanked.
3. 
No person shall alter an abandoned sign or supporting structure without first obtaining a permit to do so from the Development Services Director.
C. 
Sign Violations and Removal.
1. 
The City Manager shall have the authority to issue a sign violation notice and shall be empowered to enter upon the premises of any person within the City or its ETJ for the purpose of enforcing the provisions herein.
2. 
The City is authorized to take all legal means to ensure that a sign violation is removed or remedied.
3. 
When a sign requiring a permit is erected without a sign permit, the City Manager shall use the following procedures.
a. 
The City shall give written notice of violation to the responsible party or to the occupant of the premises if the responsible party is not known. The notice shall include a description of the violation, the date such violation was noted, instructions to contact the City Manager to apply for a permit for the sign, if applicable, and the fine schedule if the notice is not heeded, refused or unclaimed. The notice is deemed delivered when deposited in the United States Postal Service mail, with postage paid to the last known address of the party responsible for such sign.
b. 
If the City is unable to deliver written notice to the responsible party, a telephone call shall be made by the City Manager, date and time recorded, informing the owner of the premises on which the sign is located that on a set day, a fine shall commence to be assessed to the owner of the sign for each day of the violation until the sign(s) are removed.
c. 
If, within ten (10) calendar days, the responsible party fails to contact the City Manager in writing, bring the sign into conformance with this Code, or apply for a permit for the sign, the City Manager shall have the sign removed or impounded without further notice, or shall fine the owner on a daily basis as set forth within this Code.
d. 
The party responsible for the sign shall, upon conviction, be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall (a) forfeit both the sign and any permit associated with the sign; and (b) pay the fines set by the court, not to exceed the fines specified in section 1.01.05, Violations and Fines for each violation. Each day of the continued violation shall constitute a separate violation.
4. 
Impoundment of Signs.
a. 
The Development Services Director shall have the authority to remove all signs, without notice to the owners thereof, placed within any street or highway Right-of-Way, or attached to trees, telephone and utility poles, other natural features or signs otherwise prohibited or not authorized by this Code, and to immediately and permanently dispose of the signs.
b. 
The owner of an impounded sign may recover the same upon payment of an impoundment fee for each sign, and all costs associated with the removal of the sign, prior to the expiration of the fourteen (14) day impoundment period; in the event the sign is not claimed and retrieved from the City's possession within fourteen (14) days, the Development Services Director shall have authority to dispose of such sign. The owner shall be responsible for all costs associated with removal and disposal of the sign.
(Ordinance 2017-13 adopted 10/2/2017; Ordinance 2025-47 adopted 10/8/2025)
A. 
Applicability. The owner of property seeking to erect, move, add to, or alter a sign within the city limits or the ETJ may seek relief from the regulations found in Subsection 4.02 of this Code by requesting a Sign Variance from the Planning and Zoning Commission.
1. 
Sign Variances may only be requested for regulations under Subsection 4.02 related to the following:
a. 
Number of signs allowed.
b. 
Sign size (including maximum height, width, and area).
c. 
Types of signs allowed on a property. Except for Changeable Electronic Variable Message Signs.
d. 
Sign spacing.
B. 
Review Process and Application.
Sign Variance: The owner of the affected property or authorized agent may seek a Sign Variance by applying to the City Manager on such forms and with such supporting documents as may be required by the City.
Sign Regulation Administrative Appeal: An applicant for relief may appeal the decision of the City Manager or city staff to the Planning and Zoning Commission within ten (10) days of the written decision of the City Manager or city staff on such forms and with such supporting documents as may be required by the City.
The Planning and Zoning Commission shall set a hearing on the appeal of the staff decision, give public notice thereof, as well as written notice to the parties of interest, and decide the same within thirty (30) days of the making of the appeal. Any party may appear at the hearing in person or by agent. The Applicant bears the burden of proof in establishing that relief is justified. The ruling of the Planning and Zoning Commission is final, unless the applicant timely appeals the ruling to the City Council for review and final action.
C. 
Sign Regulation Variance. The Planning and Zoning Commission is authorized in specific cases to grant a Sign Variance from the Sign Regulation terms, standards, and criteria when such cases are shown not to be contrary to the public interest if, owing to special conditions, a literal enforcement of the provisions of the Sign Ordinance will result in an undue hardship and so that the spirit of the ordinance shall be observed and substantial justice done.
D. 
Sign Variance Criteria. No Sign Variance shall be granted without first having given public notice and having held a public hearing on the Sign Variance request in accordance with section 2.10.04. In considering whether to grant relief from the sign regulations in Subsection 4.02 of this Code, the Planning and Zoning Commission may consider whether:
1. 
There are special or unique circumstances or conditions arising from the physical surroundings, shape, topography, or other feature affecting the property on which the sign is to be located;
2. 
The circumstances causing the hardship similarly affect all or most properties in the vicinity of or similarly classified as the applicant's property;
3. 
The proposed sign location, configuration, design, materials, colors, and supporting structure are harmonious with the surrounding structures;
4. 
The variance request includes mitigation measures related to the sign in question or other signs on the same premises;
5. 
The request is the minimum amount necessary to meet the needs of the applicant and satisfy the standards of the sign regulations;
6. 
The relief sought alters the character of, or impairs the use of, adjacent properties;
7. 
The hardship suffered by the applicant is caused wholly or in substantial part by the applicant;
8. 
The relief is sought is not primarily for financial reasons; and
9. 
Granting of the Sign Variance will be in harmony with the spirit and purpose of the sign regulations.
The Planning and Zoning Commission may authorize the remodeling, renovation, or alteration of a sign when some nonconforming aspect of the sign is thereby reduced.
E. 
Variance Conditions. The Planning and Zoning Commission may impose conditions upon the granting of a variance under this section. Such conditions must be related to the variance sought and be generally intended to mitigate the adverse effects of the sign on neighboring tracts and the general aesthetic ambiance of the community. A non-exhaustive list of examples of conditions include increased setbacks, added vegetation, muted colors, and decreased lighting. The Planning and Zoning Commission may condition sign variances on the responsible party bringing other existing, nonconforming signs into compliance with current regulations. A responsible party's failure to comply with conditions placed on a variance may result in the Planning and Zoning Commission voiding the variance and authorizing all available code enforcement actions and other remedies available in equity or at law.
F. 
Appeal of a City Administrative or Interpretative Decision related to Sign Regulations.
1. 
Any person, department, board, or bureau of the City affected by any administrative officer acting pursuant to the UDC's Sign Regulations shall appeal to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
2. 
In exercising the Planning and Zoning Commissions' authority herein, the Planning and Zoning may reverse or affirm, in whole or in part, or modify the City administrative official's order, requirement, decision, or determination from which an appeal is taken and make the correct order, requirement, decision, or determination, and for that purpose the Planning and Zoning Commission has the same authority as the City's administrative official.
3. 
Public hearings shall be held in accordance with section 2.10.04, Public Hearings and Notification Requirements.
(Ordinance 2022-16 adopted 6/21/2022; Ordinance 2025-28 adopted 5/6/2025)