[1]
Editor's note–Former article 3.16 pertaining to similar subject matter, was amended by Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026. Prior to the replacement this article derived from the following: Ordinance 2007-08-00596 adopted 8/2/07; Ordinance 2008-07-00621 adopted 7/17/08; Ordinance 2012-10-00742 adopted 10/18/12; Ordinance 2013-02-00751 adopted 2/7/13; Ordinance 2014-02-00774 adopted 2/20/14.
The purpose of this article is to regulate the location, size, construction, erection, duration, use and maintenance of all signs within the jurisdiction of the city. The general objectives of these regulations are to promote safety, convenience, and a sense of community, and support the objectives of individual zoning districts while preserving the city's unique country appearance and atmosphere. In accordance with state law, the provisions of this article are extended to the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the city. Objectives to be pursued in applying specific standards are as follows:
(1) 
Safety.
To promote the safety of persons and property by providing that signs:
(A) 
Do not create a hazard due to dilapidation, collapse, fire, decay, substandard condition, or abandonment;
(B) 
Do not obstruct firefighting or police surveillance; and
(C) 
Do not create traffic hazards by confusing or distracting motorists, or by impairing the driver's ability to see pedestrians, obstacles or other vehicles or to read traffic signs.
(2) 
Communications efficiency.
To promote the efficient transfer of information in sign messages so as to identify individual businesses and residential and public uses without creating confusion or unsightliness.
(3) 
Landscape quality and preservation.
To protect the appearance and economic value of the landscape by providing that:
(A) 
All signs in terms of size, scale, height, and location are properly related to the overall adjacent land use, character and development lot size;
(B) 
All signs, sign supports and sign bases shall be so constructed and designed to provide for design compatibility with surrounding land use. The materials used, form, color, lighting and style should be similar to the materials used in the surrounding land uses;
(C) 
Signs do not interfere with scenic views;
(D) 
Signs do not create a nuisance to persons using the public rights-of-way;
(E) 
Signs do not constitute a nuisance to occupancy of adjacent and contiguous property by their brightness, size, or height;
(F) 
Signs are not detrimental to land or property values; and
(G) 
Signs contribute to the special character of the particular areas or districts within the city, helping the observer to understand the city and orient himself within it.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, for the purpose of this article, the following words and phrases have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:
Advertise.
To attract, or to attempt to attract, the attention of any person to any business, accommodations, goods, services, property, or commercial activity.
Advertising.
Any promotion of commodities or services.
Agricultural sign.
Any sign identifying the farm or ranch on which it is placed and advertising the produce, crops, animals or poultry raised or quartered thereon.
Animated.
Copy or other images that flash or move or otherwise change.
Area.
The area of a sign measured as follows:
(1) 
Square or rectangular signs: Length times height of the sign;
(2) 
Irregular shaped signs: Area of rectangles necessary to enclose the sign face; and
(3) 
Signs composed of individual letters mounted or painted on a natural or existing finish of a building surface: Sum of area of rectangle necessary to enclose total copy.
Attached sign.
Any sign attached to, applied on, or supported by any part of a building (such as a wall, roof, window, canopy, awning, arcade, or marquee) that encloses or covers usable space.
Awning sign.
An awning sign is a sign which is applied to, attached, or painted on awning or other roof-like cover, intended for protection from the weather or as a decorative embellishment, projecting from a wall or roof of a structure over a window, walk, door, or the like.
Banner.
A temporary sign banner sign is a sign having characters, letters, or illustrations applied to vinyl, plastic, cloth, canvas, or other light fabric, with the only purpose of such nonrigid material being for background.
Board of Adjustments.
The Board of Adjustments of the city.
Building.
A structure which has a roof supported by columns, walls, or air for the shelter, support, or enclosure of persons, animals or chattel.
Building Official or designee.
The individual, or his subordinates, designated by the city and charged with code and ordinance enforcement.
Changeable electronic variable message signs (CEVMS).
A sign which permits light to be turned on or off intermittently or which is operated in a way whereby light is turned on or off intermittently, including an illuminated sign on which such illumination is not kept stationary or constant in intensity and color at all times when such sign is in use, including an LED (light emitting diode) or digital sign, and which varies in intensity or color. A CEVMS sign does not include a sign located within the right-of-way that functions as a traffic-control device and that is described and identified in the Manual on Uniform Traffic-Control Devices (MUTCD) approved by the Federal Highway Administrator as the National Standard.
Character.
Any letter of the alphabet or numeral.
Commercial message.
A message placed or caused to be placed before the public by a person or business enterprise directly involved in the manufacture or sale of the products, property, accommodations, services, attractions, or activities or possible substitutes for those things which are the subject of the message and that:
(1) 
Refers to the offer for sale or existence for sale of products, property, accommodations, services, attractions, or activities; or
(2) 
Attracts attention to a business or to products, property, accommodations, services, attractions, or activities that are offered or exist for sale or for hire.
Construction sign.
A temporary sign identifying the property owner, decorator, architect, engineer, contractor, subcontractor and/or financier engaged in the design, construction or improvement of the premises on which the sign is located.
Copy.
Letters, characters, illustrations, logos, graphics, symbols, writing or combination thereof designed to communicate information of any kind or to advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of a person or entity, or to identify or advertise a business or business product, or to advertise the sale or lease of premises.
Digital/electronic signs.
Provide identification or advertisement of a specific business, service, product, activity, person, organization, place or building.
Dilapidated, deteriorated or substandard condition.
Dilapidated, deteriorated or substandard condition shall mean any sign:
(1) 
Where elements of the surface or background can be seen as viewed from the normal viewing distance (intended viewing distance), to have portions of the finished material missing, or otherwise not in harmony with the rest of the surface;
(2) 
Where the structural support or frame members are visibly bent, broken, dented or torn;
(3) 
Where the panel is visibly cracked or in the case of wood and similar products, splintered in such a way as to constitute an unsightly or harmful condition;
(4) 
Where the sign or its elements are twisted or leaning or at angles other than those at which it was originally erected (such as may result from being blown or the failure of structural support);
(5) 
Where the message or wording can no longer be clearly read by a person with normal eyesight under normal viewing conditions; or
(6) 
Where the sign or its elements are not in compliance with the requirements of the National Electrical Code and/or the International Building Code currently adopted by the city.
Directional sign.
A temporary off-premise sign which is limited, exclusively, to the identification of a specific premises, occupancy, or owner of said premises located elsewhere, and which tells the location of and/or route to said premises or occupancy.
Erect.
To build, attach, hang, place, suspend, fasten, affix, maintain, paint, draw, or otherwise construct.
Face or surface.
The surface of the sign upon, against, or through which the message is displayed or illustrated on the sign.
Feather Flags.
A type of advertising banner that is characterized by its vertical, feather-like shape and are typically attached to a flexible pole allowing it to sway, flutter, or otherwise move in the wind in such a manner that is designed to draw attention and are commonly used by businesses and event organizers to promote a brand or event.
Freestanding sign.
Any self-supporting sign connected to the ground that is not attached to a building or structure for reasons of support.
Garage sale, estate sale, yard sale, rummage sale or similar sale signs.
The occasional sale of tangible personal property.
Government sign.
A flag, insignia, legal notice, or informational, directional, traffic, or safe school zone sign which is legally required or necessary to the essential functions of government agencies.
Height.
As applied to a sign, means the vertical distance measured from an average elevation of the finished grade along the area of sign installation, excluding any artificial berming, to the highest part of the sign or its supporting structure, whichever is higher.
Identification sign.
A sign that includes as copy only the name of the business, place, organization, building, or person it identifies.
Illuminated sign.
Any sign which is directly lighted by an electrical or artificial light source, internal or external. This definition does not include signs that are illuminated by streetlights or other light sources owned by any public agency or light sources that are specifically operated for the purpose of lighting the area in which the sign is located rather than the sign itself.
Inflatable sign.
An inflatable sign is a sign manufactured of plastic, cloth, canvas, or other light fabric and inflated with air.
Instructional sign.
An instructional sign is a sign that provides instruction, information, or direction to the general public. The sole purpose of an instructional sign is to provide instruction, information, or direction to the general public that is essential to the health, safety, and public welfare of the community. An instructional sign shall contain no other message, copy, announcement, or decoration other than the essential instruction, information, or direction and shall not advertise or otherwise draw attention to an individual, business, commodity, service, activity, or product. Such signs shall include, but are not limited to, the following: signs identifying a property's street address, restrooms, public telephones, handicap parking spaces, reserved parking spaces, freeze warning, no trespassing, no dumping, no loitering, and construction entrance signs. Signs erected by the municipal, state or federal government for the purpose of public instruction, warning, street or highway designation, control of traffic and similar uses incidental to the public interests shall be considered instructional signs. An instructional sign also includes signs of a warning, directive or instructional nature erected by a public utility company that operates under a franchise agreement with the city.
Internal directional sign.
An internal directional sign is a sign that is supported from the grade to the bottom of the sign having or appearing to have a solid base and generally used to provide direction to drive-through lanes and to buildings and tenants within large multitenant retail, multifamily, or office developments.
Intersection.
The junctions of the centerlines of any two public rights-of-way other than alleyways, crossing at grade, or, where the crossing is separated at grade, the intersection is the point where expressway travel pavements converge or diverge, or the point where any expressway interchange ramp intersects the expressway travel pavement.
Logo.
Any formalized design or insignia of a company, service or product which is commonly used in advertising to identify that company, service or product.
Marketing sign.
A temporary sign identifying the subdivision or manufactured home park name, and may include the name and telephone number of the home builders or sales contacts for the property, the price point, the city name and logo, and the school district name.
Menu board sign.
A menu board sign is a sign erected in conjunction with a use that incorporates a drive-through or drive-in and generally used to provide service and/or product options and pricing for customers who remain in their vehicles.
Monument sign.
A monument sign is a sign that is supported from the grade to the bottom of the sign having or appearing to have a solid and opaque base and generally used to identify the name of a business or development.
Noncommercial message.
Any message that is not a commercial message.
Occupancy.
The purpose for which a building is used or intended to be used. The term also includes the building or room housing such use.
Off-premises sign.
A sign that pertains to a business, person, organization, activity, event, place, service, or product not principally located or primarily manufactured or sold on the premises on which the sign is located.
On-premises sign.
A freestanding sign identifying or advertising a business, person, or activity, and installed and maintained on the same premises as the business, person, or activity.
Permanent.
A sign intended to be used for a period of longer than six (6) months.
Person.
An individual, corporation, sole proprietorship, government or governmental subdivision or agency, trust, partnership, or two (2) or more persons having a joint or common economic interest.
Political sign.
Any type of sign which refers only to the issues, political parties or candidates involved in a political election.
Portable sign.
Any sign that is not securely connected to the ground in such a way that it cannot easily be moved from one location to another, including signs which are mounted on skids, trailers, wheels, legs or stakes, and that is not an attached sign, vehicular sign, political sign, or a sign that refers solely to the sale or lease of the premises.
Premises.
A lot or unplatted tract that is reflected in the plat books of the building inspection division of the city.
Protective sign.
Any sign which is commonly associated with safeguarding the permitted uses of the occupancy, including but not limited to "bad dog," "beware of dog," "electric fence," "no trespassing," and "no solicitors."
Residential subdivision sign.
A sign used to identify the name of a specific residential subdivision.
Roofline.
The uppermost part of the main structure of the building, excluding appurtenances such as air conditioners, chimneys, vents, etc.
Scoreboard.
Scoreboards are signs erected at an athletic field or stadium, and which are generally used to maintain the score or time expired in an event at the field or stadium. This definition shall also include signs mounted or applied to the outfield wall within a baseball field.
Setback.
The distance between a sign and the nearest existing public right-of-way line or planned future right-of-way line as proposed on the city's thoroughfare plan, whichever is greater. An alley is not considered to be public right-of-way for the purpose of calculating a setback. Where a public way crosses a railroad right-of-way, the setback is measured from the public right-of-way line extended across the railroad right-of-way.
Sign.
An outdoor structure, sign, display, light device, figure, painting, drawing, message, plaque, poster, billboard, or other thing that is designed, intended, or used to advertise or inform.
Special event sign.
Signs for the advertisement of temporary events likely of interest to the entire community of the city.
Subdivision monument or entry sign.
A subdivision monument is a physical improvement such as a sign, wall, or structure, constructed to draw attention to or enhance a subdivision or its surrounding area. A subdivision entry sign is a sign that generally identifies a residential development and that generally refers to the platted name of the subdivision.
Support.
Any pole, post, strut, cable, or other structural fixture or framework necessary to hold and secure a sign, providing that said fixture or framework is not imprinted with any picture, symbol or word using characters in excess of one inch in height, nor is internally or decoratively illuminated.
Vehicular sign.
Any sign on a vehicle moving along the ground or on any vehicle parked, incidental to its principal use for transportation. This definition does not include signs which are being transported to a permanent site.
Visibility triangle.
A triangle sight area, at all intersections, which shall include that portion of the public right-of-way and any corner lot within the adjacent curblines and a diagonal line intersecting such curblines at points fifty feet (50') back from their intersection.
Wall sign.
A wall sign is a sign painted on or erected parallel to and extending not more than twelve (12) inches from the facade of any building to which it is attached, supported throughout its entire length by the building face. Class B wall signs are a maximum of sixty-four (64) square feet, do not project away from the surface to which it is attached, are not attached to any source of electricity and do not require professional installation. All other wall signs are considered class A.
Window sign.
A window sign is a sign that is visible from a public street or sidewalk and that is posted, attached, painted, placed, or affixed in or on a window.
Wood frame sign.
(1) 
A temporary wood frame sign is a sign that is generally used to advertise a new building, opening dates, leasing opportunities, and/or to identify the property owner, architect, contractor, engineer, landscape architect, or financier engaged in the design, construction or improvement of the premises on which the sign is located. Wood frame signs are also used to advertise sales and zoning information of properties. Although wood frame signs are generally constructed of wood, the definition does not exclude metal, or plastic signs used for the same purpose.
(2) 
A permanent wood frame sign is a sign that is generally used to identify the premises on which the sign is located. This is generally intended for a church, civic organization, club or small business. Although wood frame signs are generally constructed of wood, the definition does not exclude metal or plastic signs used for the same purpose.
Yard sign.
Any temporary stake sign placed on a residentially zoned lot, including but not limited to yard signs that publicize the arrival of a newborn, family celebration, or the participation of a family member in a school activity or sport. Yard signs shall also include signs that advertise the presence of a home security system, garage sales, and seasonal decorations.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this article shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be punished by a penalty or fine as provided in section 1.01.009(a) of this code for each offense, and every day such offense is continued shall constitute a new and separate offense.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
The duties and responsibilities of administering this article shall be vested in the Building Official or designee of the city or such other person as may be designated from time to time by the City Administrator.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
(a) 
Signs shall be in harmony and consistent with the architecture of the building and relate to the features of the building in terms of location, scale, color, lettering materials, texture and depth. Signs shall not be dominant but shall be proportionate and shall complement the building, existing signs and surroundings.
(b) 
There shall be consistent sign design throughout a particular development, whether residential or commercial. The design elements include style of lettering, construction material, size and illumination.
(c) 
Freestanding signs shall be integrated with the landscaping on site.
(d) 
No electric wiring associated with a sign shall be visible to public view.
(e) 
Illuminated signs.
(1) 
Sources of sign illumination shall be completely shielded from the view of vehicular traffic and shall not be visible from any residential district.
(2) 
External lights used for the illumination of any sign on a building, whether such lights are attached to or separate from the building, shall not project above the highest elevation of the front wall of the building or more than eighteen feet (18') above the street level of the premises, whichever is less.
(3) 
Sources of sign illumination shall be extinguished by 10:00 p.m., and shall remain extinguished until dawn or one-half hour before the business opens, whichever is earlier.
(f) 
There shall be no minimum setback requirement for freestanding signs; provided, however, that freestanding signs shall not be placed or erected within any public right-of-way, are not erected within the visibility triangle, and comply with the provisions of this article.
(g) 
Visibility. All signs shall observe all visibility requirements. Signs shall not be placed within visibility triangles, corner clips, and V.A.M. (visibility, access, and maintenance) easements.
(h) 
Signs in which electrical wiring and connections are used shall comply with the requirements of the city's electrical code.
(i) 
Every sign in the city, regardless of whether any permit is required for such sign, shall be maintained in a safe, presentable and sound structural and operational condition at all times, including the replacement of nonfunctioning, broken, defective, or missing parts, painting, repainting, cleaning and any other acts required for the maintenance of such sign. All signs and sign supports, brackets and frames shall be kept painted or otherwise treated to prevent rust, rot or deterioration. If, upon inspection by the Building Official or designee, a sign is found to violate this section, written notice shall be given to the owner, giving the owner sixty (60) days to either put the sign in acceptable condition or remove the sign. Otherwise, the Building Official or designee is hereby authorized to cause the removal of the sign at the expense of the owner.
(j) 
Banners and feather flags shall be permissible for a period not exceeding thirty (30) calendar days in a year and are subject to permitting. The thirty (30) days can be during one (1) time period, four (4) one-week periods or two (2) two-week periods.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
(a) 
Compliance with zoning ordinance, building code, National Electrical Code, and other ordinances. All sign structures shall comply with City of Lucas Code of Ordinances, Chapter 3, Building Regulations and Chapter 14, Zoning, the National Electrical Code, and other city ordinances, as they currently exist or may be amended. If the standards as described herein are more restrictive, then the provisions of this article shall apply.
(b) 
Signs posted in specified areas. Unless otherwise permitted within this article, no person shall post or cause to be posted, attach or maintain any sign upon:
(1) 
Any city-owned property or right-of-way without the written permission of the City Council;
(2) 
Any utility easement. Should a property owner be able to demonstrate to the City Manager or designee and/or franchise utility company that there is no other viable location for a sign other than a utility easement, a sign may be located within the utility easement subject to written approval from the City Manager or designee and/or franchise utility company and subject to the providing of a letter to the city releasing the city of any liability for repair or replacement of a sign damaged by work occurring within the utility easement;
(3) 
Any tree, light pole, or any utility pole or structure;
(4) 
Any fence, railing or wall, except in accordance with this article; or
(5) 
Any sidewalk within the right-of-way or a sidewalk easement, curb, gutter, or street, except for house numbers or fire lane designation.
(c) 
Signs attached to fire escapes.
No sign shall be attached in any manner to any fire escape or to the supporting members of any fire escape, nor shall it be guyed to or supported by any part of the fire escape.
(d) 
Traffic signs, signals, or devices.
No sign shall be erected or displayed in such a manner as to interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device, including, but not limited to, signs making use of the words "stop," "go," "look," "slow," "danger," or any other similar word, phrase, symbol or character or employ any red, yellow, green, or other colored lamp or light in such a manner as to cause confusion or otherwise interfere with vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
(e) 
Accumulation of rainwater.
All signs shall be constructed so as to prevent the accumulation of rainwater in the sign.
(f) 
Location near telephone cable, power line, or street light.
No sign shall be erected nearer than two (2) feet from any telephone cable, power line or any street light standard.
(g) 
Signs not to block or interfere with exits or windows and pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
No sign shall be so erected as to block, partially block, or interfere in any way with a required means of exit from any building nor with any window. No sign shall block, interfere, or otherwise hinder pedestrian or vehicular traffic on a public sidewalk, a public thoroughfare, a fire lane easement, or a driveway required to access parking.
(h) 
Glass signs over public property.
Signs constructed of glass or other materials that may shatter upon impact are prohibited over public right-of-way.
(i) 
Assumed wind load for design purposes.
For the purposes of design of structural members in signs, an assumed wind load of thirty (30) pounds per square foot shall be used. All signs shall be constructed to receive dead loads as required by the International Building Code. The sign permit application must include a statement signed by the applicant that states compliance with these requirements.
(j) 
Multiple signs on a property or building.
The permitting of a sign on a property or building shall not preclude the permitting of other types of signs on a property or building unless the signs are expressly prohibited herein.
(k) 
Exemptions.
Signs located within a building with the exception of window signs shall not be regulated by this article.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
(a) 
The area of a sign shall be measured as follows:
(1) 
For signs in the shape of a square, rectangle, circle, or similar standard geometric shape, the area shall be calculated by using the standard mathematical formula (height multiplied by width, 3.14 multiplied by radius squared, etc.). This method of measurement is most commonly used for monument signs, wood frame signs, and stake signs.
(2) 
For signs with an irregular shape, the area shall be measured by enclosing the sign elements with intersecting lines. This method of measurement is most commonly used for wall signs with individual lettering and for irregularly shaped monument signs. (See diagram.)
(3) 
The area of a spherical, cylindrical or other three-dimensional sign shall be measured by calculating the area of a two-dimensional drawing of the largest elevation of the sign.
(b) 
Where a sign has two faces, the area of the largest sign face shall be used to determine the area of the sign provided the two faces are within five (5) degrees of parallel. Where a sign has two or more faces that are greater than five (5) degrees from parallel, the sign area shall either be calculated as the sum of the area of each face, or the sign will constitute two signs (a V-sign). A V-sign is permitted at the corner of a property with two street frontages as long as the sign has a common post and common signs.
(c) 
The area of wall signs containing multiple elements shall be calculated as follows:
(1) 
Regardless of the spacing between letters, letters forming a word or name shall be considered a single sign.
(2) 
When two or more separate items in a sign, such as a word or logo, are separated horizontally or vertically by less than the width or height of the largest item, the items shall be considered a single sign and the area shall be determined by measuring the area enclosing the sign elements with straight, intersecting lines.
The following sign elements are considered one sign:
(3) 
When two or more separate items in a sign, such as a word or logo, are separated horizontally or vertically by more than the width or height of the largest item, the items shall be considered a separate sign and the area of each item shall be determined individually.
The following sign elements are considered two signs:
(d) 
The supports of a stake sign or wood frame sign shall not be included in calculating the area of the sign, but shall be included in the measurement of the height of the sign.
(e) 
The height of all signs shall be measured from the top edge of the sign and/or support structure to the average finished grade of the ground below the sign and/or support structure. If a sign is located on a mound, berm, or other raised area for the sole purpose of increasing the height of the sign, the height of the mound, berm, or other raised area shall be included in the height of the sign.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
The City Manager or designee shall not issue a permit for construction, erection, placement, or maintenance of a sign until a site plan is submitted for the sign.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
The following exempt signs, as designated under this section, are allowed without a permit in all zoning districts. All exempt signs except Subsection (1) shall be setback a minimum of ten (10) feet from the edge of pavement.
(a) 
City governmental signs for control of traffic or other regulatory purposes, street signs, danger signs, railroad crossing signs and signs of public utility service companies indicating danger and/or aids to service or safety which are erected by or on approval of the city.
(b) 
The flag, pennant or insignia of any nation, organization of nations, state, county or city, of any religious, civic or fraternal organization, or of any educational institution, provided such flags are no larger than sixty (60) square feet, are flown on a pole no higher than thirty-five feet (35'), are flown at a height no greater than thirty-five feet (35') if attached to a building, and are not illuminated, and provided such flags are not used in connection with a commercial promotion or as an advertising device.
(c) 
Signs that contain primarily a political message and are located on private real property with the consent of the property owner and:
(1) 
Do not have an effective area greater than thirty-six (36) square feet;
(2) 
Are not more than eight (8) feet high;
(3) 
Are not illuminated; or
(4) 
Do not have any moving elements.
(d) 
Temporary signs:
(1) 
Special event signs on public property designated by the city for such signage, provided that they are not illuminated and provided they are not erected more than thirty (30) days prior to the event to which they apply and are removed within seven (7) days after the event to which they apply. Special event signs must not exceed six (6) feet in height, and shall be no larger than sixty-four (64) square feet in area.
(2) 
Holiday lights and decorations which do not contain advertising and are not used as such, clearly incidental and customarily and commonly associated with any national, local or religious holiday.
(3) 
One temporary nonilluminated sign shall be allowed on each lot or parcel of real estate, whichever is larger, to advertise the leasing, rental or sale of such lot or parcel, provided that it does not exceed eight (8) square feet in total area and no part of such sign shall extend more than five feet (5') above the surface of the ground on which it is erected.
(4) 
Temporary resident information signs on matters of local interest such as garage, estate, yard or similar sales, provided such signs are not illuminated and do not exceed four-and-one-half (4 1/2) square feet in area. Each sign must have the name of the resident erecting the sign and the date of the posting and must be removed within twenty-four (24) hours following the conclusion of the event.
(5) 
Nonilluminated temporary signs for the seasonal sale of agricultural products such as hay, grain, fruits and vegetables, not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, and provided that the products are produced within the city or extraterritorial jurisdiction of the city.
(6) 
Temporary resident information signs on matters of local interest such as lost and found pet notices, free pets, and neighborhood gatherings, provided such signs are not illuminated and do not exceed four-and-one-half (4 1/2) square feet in area. Each sign must have the name of the resident erecting the sign and the date of the posting and must be removed within seven days of the date of the posting.
(7) 
Yard sign shall be permitted only on lots containing an occupied single-family dwelling and shall be located a minimum of ten (10) feet from the edge of pavement. Yard signs regulations are as follows:
i 
Publicizing arrival of newborn or other family celebration: Seven (7) consecutive days per event.
ii 
School activities.
iii 
Home security: Shall not exceed one (1) square foot in area.
(e) 
Two (2) nonilluminated attached identification signs including only the address and/or name of the occupant per lot or parcel, whichever is greater, not to exceed two (2) square feet in area.
(f) 
A maximum of two (2) protective signs per acre, in accordance with the following provisions:
(1) 
Each sign must not exceed one-and-one-half (1 1/2) square feet in area.
(2) 
Detached signs must not exceed two (2) feet in height.
(3) 
Letters must not exceed six inches (6") in height.
(4) 
Such signs shall be nonilluminated.
(g) 
Wrought iron or pipe fencing which forms a name, address or logo as an ornamental part of the fencing, gate, or entrance to premises.
(h) 
Landscaping, including plants, flowers, rocks, seashells or wood mulch, which is grown, trimmed or manipulated in such a way as to form sign copy.
(i) 
Construction signs shall conform to the following requirements:
(1) 
The sign area shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet.
(2) 
Construction signs may not be illuminated.
(3) 
Signs shall not be placed more than seven (7) days in advance of the project and must be removed within seven (7) days of completion of the project.
(4) 
Only one construction sign per street frontage, per property is permitted.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
(a) 
Signs using any combination of forms, words, colors, or lights which imitate standard public traffic regulatory, or emergency signs, signals, or devices are prohibited. No sign shall make use of the word "stop," "go," "look," "slow," "danger," or any other similar word, phrase, symbol or character or employ any red, yellow, orange, green or other colors or light in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
(b) 
No sign shall be erected, relocated or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window, or fire escape. No sign of any kind shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape except signs relating directly to a standpipe or fire escape.
(c) 
Animated signs, including but not limited to those signs or sign parts which flash, reflect, blink, or effect changes in hue or intensity or illumination, are prohibited. Signs or sign parts illuminated to such intensity or in such a manner as to cause glare or brightness to a degree that they constitute hazards or nuisances are prohibited, including searchlights and beacons. Signs which employ the use of luminescent inert gases, including but not limited to neon, argon and krypton, and which are visible from the exterior of structures, are specifically prohibited.
(d) 
Moving signs, including but not limited to signs which rotate, move or reflect, pennants, banners, streamers, flags (except as specifically permitted under section 3.16.009(4)(A), and generally, signs having parts which may be set in motion by mechanical, electrical or atmospheric means.
(e) 
Signs which emit sound, odor or visible matter are prohibited.
(f) 
A sign shall not project above the top of the second floor or the roofline, whichever is lower, of the building to which it is affixed.
(g) 
Off-premises signs are prohibited unless specifically authorized by another section of this article.
(h) 
Portable signs are specifically prohibited.
(i) 
Signs attached to or upon any vehicle where any such vehicle is allowed to remain parked in the same location or in the same vicinity, at frequent or extended periods of time, where the intent is apparent to be using the vehicle and signs for purposes of advertising an establishment, service or product, are prohibited. This prohibition does not include car wraps, stickers, or magnetically attached signs to delivery vehicles.
(j) 
No person shall attach or maintain any sign upon any public utility pole or tree.
(k) 
Freestanding signs that exceed forty (40) square feet in area or six (6) feet in height are prohibited unless specifically authorized by another section in this article.
(l) 
It shall be unlawful for any person to display upon any sign any obscene, indecent or immoral matter.
(m) 
Changeable electronic variable message signs and other moving, flashing, intermittently lighted, changing color, beacons, revolving or similarly constructed signs shall not be allowed.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
The following signs are permissible, upon issuance of a sign permit, subject to the following conditions and the specifications contained in this article. Signs that do not comply with the following conditions and the specifications are considered prohibited.
(1) 
Awning signs.
(A) 
A permit shall not be issued to erect or place an awning sign on a property until a site plan and/or final plat has been approved by the city for development of the property.
(B) 
Awning signs are permitted in conjunction with a nonresidential use.
(C) 
In no case shall the supporting structure of an awning sign extend into or over the street right-of-way.
(D) 
Buildings may have both a wall sign and an awning sign on the same building face with permission of City Council.
(2) 
Banner signs and feather flags.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place a banner sign and feather flags on a property until a site plan and/or final plat has been approved by the city for development of the property.
(B) 
One banner sign and one feather flag may be placed on a building for four (4) two-week periods per calendar year. The periods may be combined. Each suite within a retail development shall be considered a building and shall therefore be allowed to erect a banner sign or feather flag accordingly.
(C) 
Banner signs and feather flags are permitted only in conjunction with a nonresidential use.
(D) 
Specific requirements for banner signs:
(i) 
The maximum area of a banner sign is thirty-two (32) square feet, and the width of a banner sign may not exceed sixty-five percent (65%) of the width of the building or lease upon which the banner sign is located.
(ii) 
New businesses shall be permitted to place a banner on their building prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy and up to eight (8) weeks after the date of issuance of a certificate of occupancy. The banner(s) shall not count against the allowances provided in subsection (2)(B).
(iii) 
Religious organizations that operate in a temporary facility may erect a banner during times of worship provided the banner is placed no earlier than two (2) hours prior to worship and is removed no later than two (2) hours after worship. The banner shall not count against the allowances provided in subsection (2)(B).
(iv) 
All four corners of a banner sign shall be securely attached to the front, side, or rear surface of a building or a banner sign shall be securely attached to a fence or fence posts permanently secured in the ground. However, such sign shall not face a residential neighborhood unless separated by a major thoroughfare with the exception that this requirement shall not apply to banner signs permitted in subsection (2)(B).
(v) 
With written permission of the city manager or designee, banner signs may also be erected during social or athletic events at a park or other city-owned property. The banners shall be attached to pavilions, fences, vehicles, stakes, or poles.
(E) 
Specific requirements for feather flags:
(i) 
New businesses shall be permitted to place one feather flag on the lot or parcel prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy and up to eight (8) weeks after the date of issuance of a certificate of occupancy with a minimum setback of 10 feet from the edge of pavement. Feather flags shall not be placed in the visibility triangle.
(ii) 
Religious organizations that operate in a temporary facility shall be permitted to place one feather flag on the lot or parcel provided such feather flag is placed no earlier than two (2) hours prior to worship and is removed no later than two (2) hours after worship and is placed with a minimum setback of 10 feet from the edge of pavement. Feather flags shall not be placed in the visibility triangle.
(3) 
Monument signs.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place a monument sign on a property until a site plan and/or final plat has been approved by the city for development of the property and after the issuance of a building permit for a building on the property.
(B) 
Monument signs are permitted only in conjunction with a nonresidential use.
(C) 
Minimum setback is ten (10) feet from the front, side, and rear property lines.
(D) 
Monument signs shall be entirely constructed of the same or complementary materials as the front building facade of the principle building on the same lot or shall be stone or brick. All sign text and graphic elements shall be attached to this masonry structure not closer than six (6) inches from the top and side edges and twelve (12) inches from the bottom edge of the sign structure. Sculpted aluminum sign panels will be permitted. The minimum height permitted for text and graphic elements is six (6) inches.
(E) 
A lot is allowed a maximum of one (1) monument sign per 100 feet of street frontage.
(F) 
The maximum area of a monument sign, including the one-foot masonry border, is fifty (50) square feet.
(G) 
The maximum height of a monument sign is eight (8) feet, six (6) inches.
(H) 
Monument signs may only be illuminated utilizing internal lighting for sculpted aluminum panels or a ground lighting source where the light itself and supporting structure are not visible from any public right-of-way.
(4) 
Internal directional signs.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place an internal directional sign on a property until a site plan and/or final plat has been approved by the city for development of the property and after issuance of a building permit on a building on the property.
(B) 
Internal directional signs are permitted only in conjunction with a nonresidential use.
(C) 
Minimum setbacks are fifty (50) feet from the front property line and fifteen (15) feet from the side and rear property lines.
(D) 
The design, materials, and finish of internal directional signs shall match those of the front building facade of the primary structure on the same lot.
(E) 
If a property that is larger than five (5) acres averages more than two (2) internal directional signs per acre, a sign coordination plan shall be approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission during the site plan approval process for the placement of the signs. Properties smaller than five (5) acres shall not be permitted to exceed two (2) internal directional signs.
(F) 
The maximum area of an internal directional sign is four (4) square feet.
(G) 
The maximum height of an internal directional sign is thirty (30) inches.
(5) 
Menu board signs.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place a menu board sign on a property until a site plan and/or final plat has been approved by the city for development of the property and after issuance of a building permit on a building on the property.
(B) 
Menu board signs are permitted only in conjunction with a nonresidential use that includes a drive-through or drive-in.
(C) 
Minimum front yard setback shall be twenty-five (25) feet.
(D) 
Drive-through menu board.
(i) 
Shall be supported from the grade to the bottom of the sign having or appearing to have a solid base.
(ii) 
The design, materials, and finish of a drive-through menu board shall match or be complementary to those of the front facade of the building(s) on the same lot. Internal lighting may be utilized for the sign panels.
(iii) 
One drive-through menu board sign is permitted per drive-through use on a lot.
(iv) 
The maximum area of a drive-through menu board is forty-eight (48) square feet with a maximum height of eight (8) feet.
(v) 
Drive-through menu boards shall be located at the side or rear of the principal building(s) on the lot.
(E) 
Drive-through pre-order sign.
(i) 
Shall be supported from the grade to the bottom of the sign having or appearing to have a solid base.
(ii) 
The design, materials, and finish of a drive-through menu board shall match those of the front facade of the building(s) on the same lot. Internal lighting may be utilized for the sign panels.
(iii) 
One drive-through pre-order sign is permitted at the entrance of a drive-through lane and shall be set back a minimum of twenty (20) feet from the drive-through menu board in the same drive-through lane.
(iv) 
The maximum area of a drive-through pre-order sign is eighteen (18) square feet with a maximum height of six (6) feet.
(v) 
Drive-through pre-order signs shall be located at the side or rear of the principal building(s) on the lot.
(F) 
Drive-in menu board.
(i) 
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 menu board signs may be attached directly to the canopy support columns.
(ii) 
The design, materials, and finish of a drive-in menu board's sign base shall match those of the front facade of the building(s) on the same lot. Internal lighting may be utilized for the sign panels.
(iii) 
One drive-in menu board sign is permitted per ordering station.
(iv) 
The maximum area of a drive-in menu board sign is nine (9) square feet with a maximum height of eight (8) feet.
(6) 
Subdivision entry signs.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place a subdivision entry sign on a property until a preliminary plat has been approved by the city for development of the property.
(B) 
All subdivision entry signs shall be located within the platted limits of a residential subdivision.
(C) 
Subdivision entry signs may be in the form of a sign mounted to a screening wall, so long as the sign does not project above the top of the wall.
(D) 
Subdivision entry signs shall have a maximum area of sixty (60) square feet and a maximum height of eight (8) feet.
(E) 
The maximum number of subdivision entry signs shall equal one (1) monument sign, or two (2) signs attached to screening walls (not a combination of both) per street entrance.
(F) 
Alternative types of subdivision entry signs, including, but not limited to neighborhood entry signs within an overall subdivision, may be approved as part of a sign coordination plan as approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission during the Preliminary and Final plat process.
(7) 
Subdivision monuments.
(A) 
A sign and/or building permit shall not be issued to erect or place subdivision monuments on a property until a preliminary plat or site plan has been approved by the city for development of multifamily or nonresidential use or a preliminary plat or final plat has been approved by the city for development of single-family homes. The requirement to prepare the aforementioned plans may be waived should the owner of the property on which the monument is proposed to be located, or his/her representative prepare written and/or graphic documentation to the satisfaction of city staff to explain the relationship of the proposed monument to future land uses on the property.
(B) 
Subdivision monuments placed on private property shall observe all building line and setback requirements. A nonhabitable monument may encroach into a required setback provided all visibility clips and easements are observed and the monument is deemed by city staff not to negatively impact fire protection of existing or future development.
(C) 
Subdivision monuments may be placed in the right-of-way subject to approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission during the Preliminary and Final Plat process and so long as the requirements of this article can be met.
(D) 
Subdivision monuments may not be erected within an area designated as future right-of-way on the city's thoroughfare plan.
(E) 
The developer of the subdivision monument must provide a plan for future maintenance of the monument to the city for review.
(F) 
The maximum height of subdivision monuments shall be ten (10) feet.
(8) 
Wall signs.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place a wall sign on a property until a site plan and/or final plat has been approved by the city for development of the property and after the issuance of a building permit for a building on the property.
(B) 
Wall signs are permitted in conjunction with a nonresidential use.
(C) 
Wall signs of any character placed directly on the face of a wall shall be set at a minimum of nine (9) feet above the grade.
(D) 
When projections on the wall face prevent the erection of the sign flat against the wall face, the space between the back of the sign and the wall shall be closed at the top, bottom and ends with noncombustible materials.
(E) 
In no case shall an attached sign, project above the roof line or parapet wall of any building. Signs shall be no closer vertically to the eave of the roofline or overhang than the predominant height of the text or graphic elements.
(F) 
Wall signs with exterior letters and exposed neon lighting are not allowed unless neon is protected or shielded in a secure manner.
(G) 
Wall signs shall not be allowed on any facade (other than the main front of the building) that faces property zoned, or designated on the future land use plan, for single-family uses if the sign is within one hundred fifty (150) feet of the property line of said residential property.
(H) 
The minimum height allowed for text or graphic elements shall be six (6) inches.
(I) 
The maximum size of wall signs shall be as follows:
Wall Height
Maximum Sign Height
Maximum % of Wall Height
0 feet to 20 feet
20% of wall height
75%
20+ feet to 30 feet
20% of wall height
60%
30+ feet
20% of wall height
50%
(9) 
Wood frame signs:
(A) 
In no case shall a wood frame sign contain information pertaining to off-premises uses.
(B) 
The sign shall be located no closer than fifteen (15) feet to any property line, or from the edge of pavement, whichever is greater. The sign shall not be placed in a visibility triangle.
(C) 
The minimum distance between wood frame signs is two hundred (200) feet.
(D) 
The maximum area of a wood frame sign is thirty-two (32) square feet.
(E) 
The maximum height of a wood frame sign is eight (8) feet.
(F) 
A maximum of one (1) wood frame sign shall be placed on a property per street frontage. If multiple wood frame signs are permitted on a tract of land, only one (1) sign shall be placed along each street frontage. A platted single-family or two-family subdivision shall be considered a single property for the purpose of this provision.
(G) 
Temporary wood frame signs.
(i) 
For properties with single-family zoning or future land use plan designation, the sign shall be removed upon the issuance of certificates of occupancy for ninety-five (95) percent of the homes within a single-family or two-family subdivision.
(ii) 
For properties with agricultural, or nonresidential zoning or future land use plan designation, the sign shall be removed prior to the issuance of the certificate of occupancy for any building on the property.
(iii) 
Signs shall be kept in a workmanlike manner.
(H) 
Permanent wood frame signs.
In all zoning categories, permanent wood frame signs shall be permitted so long as the organization or business occupies the premises and so long as the sign remains in good repair.
(10) 
Scoreboards.
(A) 
All scoreboards are considered permanent structures.
(B) 
Scoreboard signs shall be erected within the limits of and face into the athletic field or stadium.
(11) 
Instructional signs.
The maximum area of an instructional sign is sixteen (16) square feet.
(12) 
Window signs.
The square footage of a window sign shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the square footage of the window in which the sign is located.
(13) 
Model home signs.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place a model home sign on a property until issuance of a building permit on a building on the property.
(B) 
A minimum of 25' from the edge of pavement.
(C) 
Shall not be placed in the visibility triangle.
(D) 
Maximum size of 32 square feet.
(E) 
One (1) sign permitted per lot.
(F) 
Maximum height of eight (8) feet.
(G) 
Made of the same or similar material to the main structure.
(14) 
Digital/Electronic Signs.
(A) 
A sign permit shall not be issued to erect or place a digital/electronic sign on a property until a site plan and/or final plat has been approved by the city for development of the property and after the issuance of a building permit for a building on the property.
(B) 
Size: Monument sign: 100 percent of total allowable sign area, as specified in section 3.16.009(4).
(C) 
Number: One per street frontage.
(D) 
Location: May be a monument or wall sign, in non-residential uses only.
(E) 
Landscaping: Same as required for a monument sign.
(F) 
Design: Moving, flashing, animated, intermittently lighted, changing color, beacons, revolving, scrolling, dissolving, or similarly constructed signs shall not be allowed. Each message shall be displayed for at least thirty (30) seconds, and a change of message shall be accomplished within two (2) seconds or less. Signs erected at a public school (except scoreboards), religious institution, or other lawful non-residential use in a residential zoned district must be regulated by an automated timer that limits the period of illumination from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Signs must be erected a minimum of 50 feet from an adjacent residential property line. Signs located in a non-residential zoned district must be located a minimum of 150 feet from a residential zoned property. Digital/electronic signs shall not be used to display commercial messages relating to products/services that are not offered on the premises.
(G) 
Electronic component of a sign: May be encased in the same sign cabinet as the nonelectronic sign component or if located to the side of a nonelectronic sign component must be the same height as the nonelectronic sign component; or if located above or below a nonelectronic sign component must be the same width as the nonelectronic sign component.
(H) 
Intensity of display brightness will automatically adjust to natural light conditions. Brightness cannot interfere with the vision of traffic on an adjacent road. A programmable sign shall be equipped with a properly functioning default mechanism that will cause the sign to revert immediately to a single, fixed, non-transitory image or to a black screen if the sign malfunctions. The illumination intensity of the display of a digital display shall not exceed one foot candle measured at the property line.
(I) 
Digital/electronic wall signs shall only be approved as part of the site plan review process by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
(a) 
Except as otherwise provided for in this article, it shall be unlawful for any person to erect, place, display, alter or relocate a sign without first obtaining a permit or permits from the city.
(b) 
It shall be the duty of the City Manager or designee, upon the filing of an application for a sign permit, to examine the plans, specifications and other data, including the premises upon which the sign is to be erected, relocated, or repaired, including the following information:
(1) 
Name, address, and telephone number of the owner of the property.
(2) 
Size of the sign (i.e., height, length, area, thickness, number of faces).
(3) 
Letter style and size.
(4) 
Illumination.
(5) 
Colors (i.e., background, letters, trim).
(6) 
Construction, materials, structural integrity and installation details.
(7) 
Location (i.e., height above grade, distance from roofline, building width, location from lot lines).
(c) 
If the proposed structure is in compliance with all the requirements of this article, the building code and all other applicable laws and ordinances of the city, the city shall then issue the sign permit. If the work authorized under a sign permit has not been completed within ninety (90) days after the date of issuance, the permit shall become null and void unless renewed by the city.
(d) 
The City Manager or designee may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under provisions of this article whenever the permit is issued on the basis of a material omission or misstatement of fact, or in violation of this article or this code or the laws of this state or the federal government.
(e) 
Sign permits for new or additional signs shall not be issued for a specific occupancy if such occupancy displays unlawful or nonconforming signs. A sign permit may be issued for a specific occupancy provided the terms thereof specify modification or removal of nonconforming signs resulting in conformity with the provisions of this article.
(f) 
On application for any sign permit required by this article, the city shall collect a fee in accordance with the fee schedule of the city, as amended from time to time.
(g) 
Each sign requiring a permit shall be inspected by the City Manager or designee in January of each year so as to determine compliance with the approved application and permit issued. The Building Official or designee shall communicate in writing to the owner of any sign found not in compliance and said sign shall be subject to the conditions outlined in section 3.16.005(i) of the general provisions of this article. For this inspection, the city shall collect an annual fee in accordance with the fee schedule of the city, as amended from time to time.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
(a) 
Existing signs in conflict with this article shall be classified as nonconforming.
(b) 
A nonconforming sign shall not be altered, rebuilt, enlarged, extended, or relocated.
(c) 
A nonconforming sign shall not be permitted to remain after cessation or change of the business or activity to which the sign pertains.
(d) 
A nonconforming sign shall not be reestablished, repaired, or rebuilt if the sign is allowed to deteriorate, or is damaged or destroyed by any means, to an extent that the cost of repair or reconstruction is 50% or more of the replacement cost.
(e) 
A nonconforming sign shall not be converted to another nonconforming sign by changing copy, except as follows: Any existing sign which is designed for changing copy, such as a bulletin or message board, joint identification tenant sign, or gasoline pricing sign, may be changed where individual letters, numerals, or name panels are readily interchangeable.
(f) 
A nonconforming off-premises sign (billboard) located on any lot shall be removed prior to the issuance of any building permit, or prior to any variance, use permit, replatting, or zoning change becoming effective for that lot, and shall not be reconstructed at any later time.
(g) 
A lot may not be divided, or created, for the express or implied purpose of preserving the nonconforming status of any off-premises/off-site sign (billboard).
(h) 
On premises where there exists a nonconforming sign, no new sign of any type otherwise permitted in this article shall be erected or placed on such premises, permanently or temporarily, until such existing legal nonconforming sign is brought into compliance with this article or otherwise removed.
(i) 
Signs rendered discontinued:
(1) 
The use of any sign which is located on property which becomes vacant and unoccupied for a period exceeding twelve (12) months shall be deemed to have been discontinued. Any sign whose use has been discontinued is prohibited and shall be removed.
(2) 
Sign structures which remain vacant for a period exceeding ninety (90) days, devoid of any message of permitted or legal nonconforming use for ninety (90) days, or display a message pertaining to a time, event, or purpose that no longer applies for a period exceeding ninety (90) days, shall be deemed to be discontinued. Any sign whose use has been discontinued is prohibited and shall be removed.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
The Board of Adjustment shall have authority to grant special variance exceptions from the provisions of this article on proper application. Special exceptions may be granted when circumstances permit and when the proposed exception does not violate the spirit or intent of this article, on such conditions and requirements as may reasonably be required by the board.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)
(a) 
Generally.
Subject to the requirements of Texas Local Government Code Ch. 216, the city may require the relocation, reconstruction, or removal of any sign within its corporate limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction. In lieu of compensation for a sign that is required to be relocated, reconstructed, or removed, the city may exempt from required relocation, reconstruction, or removal those signs lawfully in place on the effective date of the requirement, August 2, 2007.
(b) 
Sign Control Board.
Before requiring the relocation, reconstruction, or removal of any sign within the city's corporate limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction, the mayor shall first appoint a Sign Control Board. Members of this board shall be appointed for a term of two (2) years. The Sign Control Board shall be composed of:
(1) 
Two (2) real estate appraisers, each of whom must be a member in good standing of a nationally recognized professional appraiser society or trade organization that has an established code of ethics, educational program, and professional certification program;
(2) 
One (1) person engaged in the sign business in the municipality;
(3) 
One (1) employee of the state department of transportation who is familiar with real estate valuations in eminent domain proceedings; and
(4) 
One (1) architect or landscape architect licensed by this state.
(c) 
Determination of amount of compensation.
The Sign Control Board shall first determine the amount of compensation due the owner of a sign that is required to be relocated, reconstructed, or removed. The determination shall be made after the owner of the sign is given the opportunity for a hearing before the board about the issues involved in the matter.
(d) 
Compensation for relocated sign.
The compensable costs for a sign that is required to be relocated include the expenses of dismantling the sign, transporting it to another site, and reerecting it. The Sign Control Board shall determine the compensable costs according to the standards applicable in a proceeding under Texas Property Code Ch. 21. In addition, the city shall issue to the owner of the sign an appropriate permit or other authority to operate a substitute sign of the same type at an alternative site of substantially equivalent value. Whether an alternative site is of substantially equivalent value is determined by standards generally accepted in the outdoor advertising industry, including visibility, traffic count, and demographic factors. The city shall compensate the owner for any increased operating costs, including increased rent, at the new location. The owner is responsible for designating an alternative site where the erection of the sign would be in compliance with this article.
(e) 
Compensation for reconstructed sign.
The compensable costs for a sign that is required to be reconstructed include expenses of labor and materials and any loss in the value of the sign due to the reconstruction in excess of fifteen percent (15%) of that value. The Sign Control Board shall determine the compensable costs according to standards applicable in a proceeding under Texas Property Code Ch. 21.
(f) 
Compensation for removal of off-premises sign.
(1) 
For an off-premises sign that is required to be removed, the compensable cost is an amount computed by determining the average annual gross revenue received by the owner from the sign during the two (2) years preceding September 1, 1985, or the two years preceding the month in which the removal date of the sign occurs, whichever is less, and by multiplying that amount by three (3). If the sign has not been in existence for all of either two-year periods, the average annual gross revenue for that period, for the purpose of this computation, is an amount computed by dividing twelve (12) by the number of months that the sign has been in existence, and multiplying that result by the total amount of the gross revenue received for the period that the sign has been in existence. However, if the sign did not generate revenue for at least one month preceding September 1, 1985, this computation of compensable costs is to be made using only the average annual gross revenue received during the two years preceding the month in which the removal date of the sign occurs, and by multiplying that amount by three. In determining the amounts under this subsection, a sign is treated as if it were in existence for the entire month if it was in existence for more than fifteen (15) days of the month and is treated as if it were not in existence for any part of the month if it was in existence for fifteen (15) or fewer days of the month.
(2) 
The owner of the real property on which the sign was located is entitled to be compensated for any decrease in the value of the real property. The compensable cost is to be determined by the Sign Control Board according to standards applicable in a proceeding under Texas Property Code Ch. 21.
(g) 
Compensation for removal of on-premises sign.
For an on-premises sign that is required to be removed, the compensable cost is an amount computed by determining a reasonable balance between the original cost of the sign, less depreciation, and the current replacement cost of the sign, less an adjustment for the present age and condition of the sign.
(h) 
Method of compensation.
(1) 
To pay the compensable costs required under this article, the city may use only a method, or a combination of the methods, prescribed by this section.
(2) 
If a sign is required to be relocated or reconstructed, the city, acting pursuant to the Property Redevelopment and Tax Abatement Act (Texas Tax Code Ch. 312), may abate municipal property taxes that otherwise would be owed by the owner of the sign. The abated taxes may be on any real or personal property owned by the owner of the sign except residential property. The right to the abatement of taxes is assignable by the holder, and the assignee may use the right to abatement with respect to taxes on any nonresidential property in the same taxing jurisdiction. If tax abatement is used to pay compensable costs, the costs include reasonable interest and the abatement period may not exceed five (5) years.
(3) 
The city may allocate to a special fund in the municipal treasury, to be known as the "sign abatement and community beautification fund," all or any part of the municipal property taxes paid on signs, on the real property on which the signs are located, or on other real or personal property owned by the owner of the sign. The city may make payments from that fund to reimburse compensable costs to owners of signs required to be relocated, reconstructed, or removed.
(4) 
The city may provide for the issuance of sign abatement revenue bonds and use the proceeds to make payments to reimburse costs to the owners of signs within its corporate limits that are required to be relocated, reconstructed, or removed.
(5) 
The city may pay compensable costs in cash.
(i) 
Tax appraisal of property with nonconforming sign.
For each nonconforming sign, the Sign Control Board shall file with the appropriate property tax appraisal office the board's compensable costs value appraisal of the sign. The appraisal office shall consider the board's appraisal when the office, for property tax purposes, determines the appraised value of the real property to which the sign is attached.
(j) 
The city may, without paying compensation as provided by this section, require the removal of an on-premise sign or sign structure not sooner than the first anniversary of the date the business, person, or activity that the sign or sign structure identifies or advertises ceases to operate on the premises on which the sign or sign structure is located. If the premises containing the sign or sign structure is leased, the city may not require removal under this subsection sooner than the second anniversary after the date the most recent tenant ceases to operate on the premises. The removal of a sign or sign structure as described by this subsection does not require the appointment of a Sign Control Board.
(k) 
Exceptions.
(1) 
The requirements of this section do not apply to a sign that was erected in violation of local ordinances, laws, or regulations applicable at the time of its erection.
(2) 
The requirements of this section do not apply to a sign that, having been permitted to remain in place as a nonconforming use, is required to be removed by the city because the sign, or a substantial part of it, is 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.
(3) 
For purposes of subsection (2) above, a sign or substantial part of it is considered to have been destroyed only if the cost of repairing the sign is more than sixty percent (60%) of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at the same location.
(l) 
Appeal.
Any person aggrieved by a decision of the Sign Control Board may file in district court a verified petition setting forth that the decision is illegal, in whole or in part, and specifying the grounds of the illegality. The petition must be filed within 20 days after the date the decision is rendered by the board.
(1) 
On the filing of the petition, the court may issue a writ of certiorari directed to the board to review the decision of the board and shall prescribe in the writ the time within which a return must be made, which must be longer than 10 days and may be extended by the court.
(2) 
The board is not required to return the original papers acted on by it, but it shall be sufficient to return certified or sworn copies of the papers. The return must concisely set forth all other facts as may be pertinent and material to show the grounds of the decision appealed from and must be verified.
(3) 
The court may reverse or affirm, wholly or partly, or modify the decision brought up for review.
(4) 
Costs may not be allowed against the Sign Control Board unless it appears to the court that the board acted with gross negligence, in bad faith, or with malice in making the decision appealed from.
(Ordinance 2026-04-01041 adopted 4/2/2026)