Signs which do not conform to this article but which lawfully existed and were maintained on the effective date of this article shall be kept in good repair or visual appearance and no structural alterations shall be made thereto. Signs which have been granted variances prior to the adoption of this article may remain; however, any permits for new signs must comply with this article. If more than 60 percent of the total dollar value for replacement of a nonconforming sign is damaged, the sign shall be replaced with a conforming sign rather than repairing the damage.
(Ordinance 1002, sec. 14-7-1, adopted 3/15/11)
The city shall issue a citation and order the repair or removal of any dilapidated, abandoned, illegal, or prohibited signs from property within the corporate city limits. If the owner of the property fails or refuses to comply with this article, the city shall give written notice to the property owner. The notice shall be delivered by U.S. mail or in person to the owner. If delivery in person is not possible or the owner’s address is unknown, notice shall be given by publication in the city’s official newspaper at least once. A notice of violation shall contain a statement setting forth the requirements of this article. The owner has ten working (10) days from the date of this notice to correct the violation. If the owner fails to correct the violation or fails to pay the cost for abatement, a lien shall be filed against the property to secure all costs and fees. In the event that a temporary or portable sign is erected without a permit, the city may remove any sign without notice and the sign shall be destroyed.
(Ordinance 1002, sec. 14-7-2, adopted 3/15/11)
Nonconforming signs which have been blown down or otherwise destroyed or dismantled for any purpose other than maintenance operations or for changing the letters, symbols, or other matter on the sign shall be removed or brought into compliance with this article.
(Ordinance 1002, sec. 14-7-3, adopted 3/15/11)
Impounded signs may be recovered by the owner within ten (10) days of the date of impoundment and owner notification. Signs that are not recovered within ten (10) days of impoundment will be destroyed. Impoundment fees are as listed in the fee schedule in appendix A of this code.
(Ordinance 1002, sec. 14-7-4, adopted 3/15/11; Ordinance adopting 2023 Code)