[Added 9-26-2005 by Ord. No. 481; amended 1-23-2006 by Ord. No. 489; 11-14-2011 by Ord. No. 582; 6-11-2012 by Ord. No.
589; 9-24-2012 by Ord. No. 593; 11-11-2013 by Ord. No. 610; 1-13-2014 by Ord. No. 612; 11-28-2016 by Ord. No. 643; 11-28-2016 by Ord. No. 650; 1-14-2019 by Ord. No. 669]
A.Â
Findings. Signs obstruct views, distract motorists, displace alternative
uses for land, and pose other problems that legitimately call for
regulation.
B.Â
Purpose. The purpose of this Sign Article is to provide the legal
framework and minimum standards to safeguard life, property, and public
welfare by regulation and controlling the number, size, color, quality
of materials, construction, location, illumination, movement, height,
installation, condition, and maintenance of all signs to be compatible
with zoning regulations. These regulations ensure the protection of
property values, the character of the various neighborhoods, the creation
of a convenient, attractive, and harmonious community, protection
against destruction of or encroachment on historic areas or signage,
and encouraging economic development. This article allows adequate
communication through signage while encouraging aesthetic quality
in the design, location, size and purpose of all signs. This article
must be interpreted in a manner consistent with the First Amendment
guarantee of free speech. If any provision of this article is found
by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such finding must
not affect the validity of the provisions of this article that can
be given effect without the invalid provision.
C.Â
Intent.
(1)Â
This article recognizes the need for well-maintained and attractive
sign displays within the Village and the need for adequate business
identification, advertising and communication. Because of the unique
qualities of the Village of Waterford, which need to be protected
and enhanced, a high degree of control over the construction materials
of signs is deemed to be an important public purpose.
(2)Â
A sign placed on land or on a building for the purpose of identification, protection or directing persons to a use conducted therein must be deemed to be an integral but accessory and subordinate part of the principal use of land or building. Therefore, the intent of this article is to establish limitations on signs in order to ensure they are appropriate to the land, building or use to which they are appurtenant and are adequate for their intended purpose while balancing the individual and community interests identified in Subsection C(1) of this section.
(3)Â
These regulations are intended to promote signs that are compatible
with the use of the property to which they are appurtenant, landscape
and architecture of surrounding buildings, are legible and appropriate
to the activity to which they pertain, are not distracting to motorists,
and are constructed and maintained in a structurally sound and attractive
condition.
D.Â
Interpretation.
(1)Â
This article authorizes the use of signs on public and private property,
provided the signs are:
(a)Â
Compatible with the zoning district regulations.
(b)Â
Where required, compatible with the approved Heritage District Design Guidelines adopted in § 245-27 for the Waterford Heritage Overlay District, and any other approved guides and manuals.
(c)Â
Designed, constructed, installed and maintained in such a manner
that they do not endanger public safety or traffic safety.
(d)Â
Legible, readable, visible and well designed for the circumstances
in which they are used.
(e)Â
Respectful of the reasonable rights of the citizens and other
advertisers.
(f)Â
Do not cover any major architectural detail.
(g)Â
Are expressly permitted as being allowed by right or by permit
under this article, by specific requirements in another portion of
this chapter, or otherwise expressly allowed by the Plan Commission,
Village Board or Board of Appeals.
(2)Â
These regulations do not regulate every form and instance of visual
communication that may be displayed anywhere within the jurisdictional
limits of the Village. Rather, they are intended to regulate those
forms and instances that are most likely to meaningfully affect one
or more of the purposes set forth above.
(3)Â
These regulations do not entirely eliminate all of the harms that
may be created by the installation and display of signs. Rather, they
strike an appropriate balance that preserves ample channels of communication
by means of visual display while still reducing and mitigating the
extent of the harms caused by signs.
(4)Â
These regulations are not intended to and do not apply to signs erected,
maintained or otherwise posted, owned or leased by this state, the
federal government or this Village. The inclusion of "government"
in describing some signs does not intend to subject the government
to regulation, but instead helps illuminate the type of sign that
falls within the immunities of the government from regulation.
For the purpose of this article, the following words and phrases
shall have the meaning assigned to them in this section:
A hand-painted work of visual art that is either affixed
to or painted directly on the exterior wall of a structure with the
permission of the property owner. An original art display does not
include: mechanically produced or computer generated prints or images,
including but not limited to digitally printed vinyl; electrical or
mechanical components; or changing image art display. An original
art display meeting these requirements is not considered to be a sign.
A name, identification, description, display or illustration,
in any medium, including sign face, words, letters, figures, numerals,
phrases, sentences, emblems, devices, designs, trade names, or trademarks,
which is affixed to, painted or represented directly or indirectly
upon a building, or other surface (including the ground, poles, etc.),
which directs attention to, or is designed or intended to direct attention
to the sign face or to an object, product, place, activity, person,
institution, organization, cause, or business, used to communicate,
which is visible from any public street or highway, and includes searchlights
and other lighted displays. Each display surface of a sign is considered
to be a sign.
The space enclosed within the extreme edges of the sign for
each sign face, not including the supporting structure; or, where
attached directly to a building wall or surface, the space within
the outline enclosing all the characters of the words, numbers, or
design.
The message, advertising, and/or any other symbols on the
face of the sign.
The display area of a sign shall be measured as the area,
in square feet, of the smallest rectilinear polygon, with a maximum
of eight sides, that describes the portion of the sign which encloses
all lettering, wording, design, and symbols together with any background
that, through the use of illumination, color or other techniques,
helps the sign stand out from its surroundings. Where a sign has multiple
display surfaces and any two of these display surfaces are parallel
and face in opposite directions, only one of the parallel display
surfaces is included when calculating the display area. For an internally
illuminated awning or marquee sign, the display area shall be calculated
as the height of the awning or marquee multiplied by its width.
The entire area display surface area upon, against or through
which copy is placed.
Any sign, the use of which has been discontinued to a period
of 12 consecutive months, which sign advertises or identifies an activity
that has been discontinued for a period of 12 consecutive months,
shall be considered abandoned.
A sign that is mounted or painted on, or attached to, an
awning, canopy, or marquee.
This letter combines the standard front-lit letter along
with the reverse/halo-lit letter. The sides of the letter are aluminum,
the faces are polycarbonate and the back of the sign is open to reflect
the LED or neon illumination off of the wall. (See appendix for example.[1])
A sign that allows changeable copy that directs attention
to buildings or activities that are located or to be located either
on or off the premises where the sign is located.
A sign that does not advertise, but merely draws attention
to a business, development, or other building by indicating no more
than the direction and distance it is from the sign.
The distance from the bottom of the sign or other projection
to the established grade immediately below is measured from the elevation
immediately adjacent to the face of the building to which the sign
or other projection is attached.
A sign illuminated by one or more light sources outside the
sign cabinet.
Any sign placed upon a pole or other support independent
of any other structure, where the sign height does not exceed 10 feet.
Halo-lit letters or also known as reverse channel-lit letters
consist of aluminum faces and sides (returns) mounted onto standoffs
away from the wall which project either LED's or neon illumination
to the wall surface giving the sign a halo effect. This technique
is often considered to give the customer a distinguished or unique
image. (See appendix for example.)
A sign illuminated by one or more light sources enclosed
entirely within the sign cabinet and not directly visible from outside
the sign.
A sign with luminous gas-filled tubes formed into text, symbols,
or decorative elements and directly visible from outside the sign
cabinet.
A sign that directs attention to a building, commodity, activity,
or service conducted, sold, or offered at a location other than the
premises on which the sign is located. No off-premises sign may be
erected without Plan Commission approval.
A sign permanently attached to the land or a structure by
means of concrete, plaster, nails, bolts, screws or other material,
or painted on or etched into the exterior of a window.
A sign that is mounted on a freestanding pole or other support
so that the bottom of the sign is over 10 feet above grade.
A sign that is not permanently affixed to a building, structure,
or to the ground. Such a sign is sometimes mounted on wheels to make
it transportable.
A sign that is wholly or partly dependent upon a building
for support and which projects more than 12 inches from that building.
A sign that is mounted on the roof of a building or that
is wholly dependent on a building for support and which projects above
the point of a building with a flat roof, the eave line of a building
with a gambrel, gable, or hip roof, or the deck line of a building
with a mansard roof.
A sign constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, paper, cardboard,
plastic, wood or other material and not permanently attached to the
land or a structure.
A sign fastened to or painted on the wall of a building or
structure in such a manner that the wall becomes the supporting structure
for, or forms the background surface of the sign, and which does not
project more than 12 inches from that building or structure.
Any outdoor sign painted, posted, displayed, or etched in
or on the surface of a window or a translucent or transparent surface
of a door.
A sign that is applied or attached to the interior of a window
or located in such manner within a building that it can readily be
seen from the exterior of the building through a window.
[1]
Said appendix is on file in the office of the Village Clerk.
A.Â
The Village recognizes the decision of the United States Supreme
Court, as outlined in Reed v. Town of Gilbert, 135 S.Ct. 2218 (2015).
As such, this section is intended to act as a set of suggestions to
sign producers and property owners on what types of signs the Village
would prefer to see in order to preserve the small town charm of the
community.
B.Â
Signs are one of the most prominent visual elements of a street.
Well-designed signs add interest and variety to building facades and
help to attract customers. In general, the sign is the best representation
of the business to the passing pedestrian or motorist. The design
guidelines shall be used as an important part of sign review and approval.
C.Â
Before starting to design a sign, take a careful look at the building.
Is there an obvious space on the building where the sign would look
appropriate without covering architectural details? Some of the Village's
older buildings were designed with a horizontal "sign space" stretching
across the top of the storefront which should be used. If this "sign
space" does not exist perhaps, there is adequate wall area for a wall
sign with appropriate space for a projecting sign.
D.Â
Take a look at neighboring buildings. Is there a predominant type
of sign or a size precedent? In designing a sign, it is important
to have an understanding not only of the building but also of the
compatibility within the neighborhood. The basis for decisions on
sign type, size and location should come from architectural concerns.
The specific definitions and regulations governing the various types
of signs in this section should be studied before actual design begins.
E.Â
To achieve the objective of these guidelines for sign details include
the following:
(1)Â
Simplicity. An effectively designed sign with bold, easily recognized
symbols and clear crisp lettering will identify a business or activity
efficiently and attractively, enhance the area in which it is located
and complement the general appearance of the street and Village.
(2)Â
Color. Restraint should be exercised when selecting colors. On most
signs, no more than three colors should be used: one for background,
a contrasting color for lettering, and a third for perhaps emphasis
(such as for borders, motifs, or shading of letters to give it a three-dimensional
look). Colors should be chosen which complement each other as well
as the general tone of the building.
(3)Â
Messages. Messages should be simple for rapid comprehension by the
public. Pictures, symbols, and logos can add individuality and character
to signs, in addition to making them easier to read.
(4)Â
Materials. Sign materials shall be compatible with the surrounding
area. Sign materials shall be consistent with or at least complement
the original construction materials and architectural style of the
building facade on which they are to be displayed.
(5)Â
Lettering. Lettering styles should complement the style and period
of the building on which they appear. Traditional block and curvilinear
styles, which are easy to read, are preferred. Generally, different
type styles should not be used on the same sign to avoid a cluttered
appearance.
F.Â
In the Waterford Heritage Overlay District, the Signage Provisions
of the Heritage District Design Guidelines are mandatory where indicated
in that document.
A.Â
In general. Signs are allowed in all nonresidential districts, subject to the requirements in this article. All signs in nonresidential districts require permits, except as set forth in Subsection H, below.
B.Â
Determination of allowable signage.
(1)Â
The area of each building's signage shall be the lineal feet of the front of the building multiplied by the story factor below. A basement shall not count as a story. See § 245-37 for the manner to determine the linear front footage. No single projecting or ground sign may exceed 24 square feet in area per side.
(2)Â
The following table shall be used to calculate the area of allowable
signage. Measure the width of the building and use the proper multiplier
for the building width range to determine the allowable square feet
of signage permitted.
Building Width Range in Feet
|
Multiplier
| ||
---|---|---|---|
One-Story
|
Two-Story
|
Three-Story
| |
0
|
0.750
|
0.830
|
0.900
|
5
|
0.750
|
0.830
|
0.900
|
10
|
0.750
|
0.830
|
0.900
|
15
|
0.750
|
0.830
|
0.900
|
20
|
0.750
|
0.830
|
0.900
|
25
|
0.750
|
0.830
|
0.900
|
30
|
0.750
|
0.830
|
0.900
|
35
|
0.721
|
0.798
|
0.865
|
40
|
0.711
|
0.787
|
0.853
|
45
|
0.701
|
0.776
|
0.842
|
50
|
0.692
|
0.765
|
0.830
|
55
|
0.682
|
0.754
|
0.818
|
60
|
0.672
|
0.743
|
0.807
|
65
|
0.663
|
0.733
|
0.795
|
70
|
0.653
|
0.722
|
0.783
|
75
|
0.643
|
0.711
|
0.772
|
80
|
0.633
|
0.700
|
0.760
|
85
|
0.624
|
0.689
|
0.748
|
90
|
0.614
|
0.678
|
0.737
|
95
|
0.604
|
0.668
|
0.725
|
100
|
0.594
|
0.657
|
0.713
|
105
|
0.585
|
0.646
|
0.702
|
110
|
0.575
|
0.635
|
0.690
|
115
|
0.565
|
0.624
|
0.678
|
120
|
0.556
|
0.613
|
0.667
|
125
|
0.546
|
0.602
|
0.655
|
130
|
0.536
|
0.592
|
0.643
|
135
|
0.526
|
0.581
|
0.632
|
140
|
0.517
|
0.570
|
0.620
|
145
|
0.507
|
0.559
|
0.608
|
150
|
0.497
|
0.548
|
0.597
|
155
|
0.488
|
0.537
|
0.585
|
160
|
0.478
|
0.527
|
0.573
|
165
|
0.468
|
0.516
|
0.562
|
170
|
0.458
|
0.505
|
0.550
|
175
|
0.449
|
0.494
|
0.538
|
180
|
0.439
|
0.483
|
0.527
|
185
|
0.429
|
0.472
|
0.515
|
190
|
0.419
|
0.462
|
0.503
|
195
|
0.410
|
0.451
|
0.492
|
200
|
0.400
|
0.440
|
0.480
|
Over 200
|
0.390
|
0.429
|
0.468
|
(3)Â
Window signs. All uses are allowed window signs, which may be placed
only on the inside of buildings and shall not exceed 25% of the glass
area of the windows fronting on a public street. Window signs meeting
this description shall not require a permit.
(4)Â
Awning signage. All uses are allowed signage on awnings. Awning signage
may include logos, business names, symbols and wording placed only
on the flap. Awnings or canopies covering pedestrian or vehicle access
areas signs shall provide no less than eight feet vertical clearance
between the bottom of the sign and the ground (finished surface),
directly beneath the awning or canopy. Signage on awnings shall not
count towards total signage.
(5)Â
Signage at the entrance of tenant spaces. One sign placed at the entrance of the space for each separate tenant space in multi-tenant buildings may be placed on the building and each directory sign shall not exceed two square feet per side. In lieu of one entrance directory sign for each separate tenant space, a single wall sign may be permitted. The area of the wall sign shall be no larger than the cumulative amount of the permitted separate entrance directory signs. The "in lieu of" sign shall be in addition to the sign areas allowed in Subsection B(2) above and shall conform to all of the requirements of this section.
C.Â
Total combination of signs. All covered uses may divide the total permitted signage into any combination of the four types listed below, not to exceed the total permitted area limits set forth in Subsection B(2) above.
(1)Â
Wall signs placed flat against the exterior walls of a building shall
not extend above the roofline. Wall signs shall not extend beyond
the ends of the wall to which they are attached.
(2)Â
Projecting signs fastened to, suspended from or supported by structures
shall not extend more than six feet into the required yard area, shall
not extend into any public right-of-way, shall not extend over any
driveway and, shall be at least 10 feet from all side lot lines. The
projecting sign shall not be located at a point higher than 75% of
the wall measured from the top of the foundation where it is located,
except by approval of the Plan Commission.
(3)Â
Ground signs shall not exceed eight feet in height. Ground signs shall be located at least 10 feet from any street right-of-way and at least 10 feet away from any side or rear lot line except as specified in Subsection C(3)(a) below. Ground signs shall comply with the traffic visibility requirements set forth in § 245-13H. All ground signs shall include landscaping at the base of the sign.
(a)Â
In the B-3 Downtown Business District, ground signs may be located
no closer than 10 feet from the face of the curb if the existing building
and/or terrain is not suitable for the setback as specified above.
(b)Â
All parcels shall be limited to one ground sign, regardless
of the number of businesses, buildings on the site or the number of
street frontages abutting the property.
(c)Â
Vending machines. Vending machines without internal illumination
are permitted in business, commercial, and industrial districts; internally
illuminated vending machines may be permitted with appropriate vegetative
screening so that they are not visible from the roadway.
D.Â
Commercial center signage.
(1)Â
A commercial center is defined as a multi-tenant, multi-building
commercial and retail development under common ownership or management
and located in the B-1 or B-2 Zoning District. The shopping center
may be permitted the following signage in addition to the approved
building signage as specified above and in this section.
(2)Â
Signs used for commercial centers shall be allowed as follows:
(a)Â
One ground sign identifying the tenants may be permitted along
a state highway abutting a commercial center.
(b)Â
The signs shall not exceed 72 square feet per side in total
area and may not exceed 12 feet in height. The location must be approved
by the Zoning Administrator prior to the issuance of a sign permit.
(3)Â
Business or tenant signage. Signage specified in Subsection C(1) and (2), above, may be provided for each individual tenant business in a commercial center. In a multi-tenant building, each business shall be permitted signage up to 12 square feet per side. In a single-tenant building the business shall be permitted signage up to 16 square feet per side on the interior of the shopping center.
(4)Â
Additional on-premises signage. One additional ground sign on the
commercial center property may be permitted subject to the following
restrictions:
E.Â
Sandwich board signage with permit. Sandwich board signs are permitted
subject to the following conditions:
(1)Â
Entities may use sandwich board signs in front of their properties
in the B-1, B-2, B-3 Institutional and Municipal Campus Districts
provided that the sandwich board signs will not be located on any
sidewalk or bikeway if one is present or in any public right-of-way;
provided, however, that where there is a zero lot-line setback, the
sandwich board may be located on a sidewalk if it does not interfere
with pedestrian traffic.
(2)Â
Sandwich board sign impact on total permitted signage.
(a)Â
A sandwich board where the messages and content change on a weekly basis shall not count towards the total signage allowed under § 245-31.
(c)Â
The sandwich board sign must be located in front of the property,
and will not cause a hazard to traffic or adjoining properties. These
signs shall require a permit and shall not exceed six square feet
in area on one side or 12 square feet on all sides.
(d)Â
The sandwich board sign must be removed from its display location
whenever the permit holder is not open to the public. Festivals, nonprofits,
organizations and businesses under contract with the Village may use
sandwich board signs on Village-owned property or other property in
any district as permitted.
F.Â
Illuminated signs. Interior illuminated signs are not permitted in
any district. Halo-lit and channel-lit signs are permitted in Institutional,
Municipal Campus, B-1, B-2, and B-3 Districts, and are also permitted
in residential districts at the entrance to neighborhoods.
G.Â
Changeable copy signs. Changeable copy signs, fixed or moveable,
may be permitted if approved by the Zoning Administrator. Price signs
will be considered permitted additional signage.
H.Â
Signs in nonresidential districts where no permit is required. Except as prohibited in § 245-39 of this chapter, the following signs are allowed in nonresidential zoning districts without a permit, subject to the following regulations:
(1)Â
Temporary signs.
(a)Â
Temporary signs are allowed per property, as follows:
[1]Â
(Reserved)
[2]Â
Each sign may not exceed 32 square feet in total area and may
not exceed 10 feet in height, except signs located in the B-3, if
affixed to the building, shall not exceed the roof line. Signs located
in the B-3, if affixed to the ground, shall be no taller than eight
feet in height.
[3]Â
These signs shall not be located in any street right-of-way
or in front of any sidewalk.
[4]Â
(Reserved)
[5]Â
Only one sign shall be allowed on each street frontage per lot.
(b)Â
The temporary use of banners, balloons, streamers, pennants,
and other similar media in any district is allowed provided that the
media will not be located on any sidewalk or bikeway if one is present
or in any public right-of-way, except by permit of the Zoning Administrator.
[1]Â
This type of media shall be displayed for no more than 14 days.
[2]Â
The media will not be located closer than 10 feet to an adjacent
property or driveway, and will not cause a hazard to traffic or adjoining
properties. This type of media shall not exceed 24 square feet in
area on one side or 48 square feet on all sides.
(c)Â
In all cases, when the temporary sign or media is placed by
a person other than the property owner or legal tenant of the property,
the person placing the sign or media must obtain permission from the
owner for the placement of the signs or media.
(d)Â
Failure to comply with standards. Any person that fails to follow the standards set forth in this section shall be notified in writing that all future temporary signage shall require a regular sign permit and may be issued a citation for a violation of this chapter as set forth in § 245-57 and Chapter 1, Article II of this Code.
(2)Â
Temporary construction area signage. Temporary signs on a property
during a period of construction may be placed on a construction site
without a permit, provided that:
(a)Â
There shall be no more than one such sign located on the premises;
(b)Â
No sign shall exceed 32 square feet in area on one side or 64
square feet on all sides; and
(c)Â
The sign shall be removed within 72 hours following the issuance
of an occupancy permit. Temporary signs allowed as part of a development
agreement shall be removed as specified in that agreement.
(d)Â
Notwithstanding the above, pursuant to Wis. Stats. § 66.1102(5),
any person who is the owner, or other person in lawful possession
or control, of a construction site may install a banner over the entire
height and length of a fence surrounding the construction site.
(3)Â
Bulletin boards. Bulletin boards are not to exceed four square feet
in area on one side and located on the building.
(4)Â
Signs cut into buildings. Signs and tablets when cut into any masonry
surface or when constructed of metal and affixed flat against a structure
will count towards total allowable signage, and be reviewed by the
Zoning Administrator as an architectural feature and approved or denied
based on total allowable signage.
(5)Â
Official signs. Official signs, such as traffic control, parking
restrictions, welcome signs and related entrance signs, and public
notices when approved by the Zoning Administrator.
(6)Â
Lot signs. Permanent directional signs located at the entrance and
exit of a driveway or street shall not exceed two square feet.
(7)Â
Parking signs. Signs in the parking lot shall be mounted no less
than four feet from the ground and shall not exceed 24 inches high
by 30 inches wide.
(8)Â
Flags. Property owners shall be permitted one flag per 25 feet of
frontage on a right-of-way up to a maximum of six flags and six flag
poles per premises. Each flag may be a maximum of 15 square feet in
area. Flag poles may be a maximum of 50 feet in height, but no higher
than the highest point of the nearest principal building's roof on
the premises. Flag poles must meet the minimum yard setback requirements
for a principal building or a minimum of 10 feet, whichever is more
restrictive.
(9)Â
Signs on external walls. One sign on an external wall is allowed
per nonresidential unit. The maximum allowable size for such sign
is four square feet. If it is over four square feet in size, the sign's
area shall be included in the total signage calculation. All signs
must be mounted on the building. Erasable blackboards or glass-enclosed
cases are acceptable.
(10)Â
Election campaign periods. During an election campaign period,
as defined in Wis. Stats. § 12.04, there is no limit on
the number or square footage of signs allowed; provided, however,
that such signs shall not interfere with traffic or pedestrian safety
and shall not be placed in the vision clearance triangle. Said signs
may be placed on property zoned for any use and on property abutting
that property for which the owner or renter is responsible for the
maintenance or care. A sign having an electrical, mechanical or audio
auxiliary requires a permit, may not be located closer than 10 feet
to an adjacent property or driveway, may not cause a hazard to traffic
or adjoining properties, and may not exceed 24 square feet in area
on one side or 48 square feet on all sides.
(11)Â
Original art display. An original art display is allowed without
a permit provided that it meets the following requirements:
(a)Â
It is located on a side or rear of a building. An original art
display on the front of a building requires a conditional use permit;
(b)Â
It may not extend more into the building setback from the plane
of the wall upon which it is painted or to which it is affixed;
(c)Â
The total of all original art displays may be no more than 64
square feet in area per parcel, or as permitted by the Plan Commission;
(d)Â
(Reserved)
(e)Â
May not be internally illuminated.
The following sign regulations apply to all residential districts, and the signage requires permits, except as set forth in § 245-39.
A.Â
Size. Except as may otherwise be provided in this article, when a
sign is authorized on a property, the sign must not exceed two square
feet in area. Where attached dwellings exist on a property, the total
square footage must not exceed two square feet per dwelling unit.
B.Â
Subdivision and residential development
signs. For residential developments (including subdivision identification
signs), the maximum size and number of signs that the owner or owners
of the residential development must be controlled according to the
following:
(a)Â
Residential developments four acres or less in area may have a sign
or signs with a total area of no more than 32 square feet.
(b)Â
Residential developments over four acres but less than 40 acres in
area may a sign or signs that have a total area of no more than 48
square feet.
(c)Â
Residential developments of 40 acres or more may have a sign or signs
with a total area of no more than 102 square feet.
C.Â
Location. Permitted signs may be anywhere on the premises, except
in a required side yard or within 10 feet of a street right-of-way.
E.Â
Illumination. No internal illumination is allowed. If illumination
is used, it may not be blinking, fluctuating or moving. Light rays
must shine only on the face of the sign and on property within the
premises.
F.Â
The following signs are not allowed: portable signs, marquee signs,
digital billboard, and projecting signs.
G.Â
Temporary Signs in Residential Districts that do not require permits.
(1)Â
Temporary signs.
(b)Â
The temporary use of banners, balloons, streamers, pennants,
and other similar media in any district is allowed provided that the
media will not be located on any sidewalk or bikeway if one is present
or in any public right-of-way, except as approved by the Zoning Administrator.
[1]Â
This type of media shall be displayed for no more than 14 days.
[2]Â
The media will not be located closer than 10 feet to an adjacent
property or driveway, and will not cause a hazard to traffic or adjoining
properties. This type of media shall not exceed 12 square feet in
area on one side or 24 square feet on all sides.
(c)Â
In all cases, when the temporary sign or media is placed by
a person other than the property owner or legal tenant of the property,
the person placing the sign or media must obtain permission from the
owner for the placement of the signs or media.
(d)Â
Failure to comply with standards. Any person that fails to follow the standards set forth in this section shall be notified in writing that all future temporary signage shall require a regular sign permit and may be issued a citation for a violation of this chapter as set forth in § 245-57 and Chapter 1, Article II of this Code.
(2)Â
Temporary construction area signage. Temporary signs on a property
during a period of construction may be placed on a construction site
without a permit, provided that:
(a)Â
There shall be no more than one such sign located on the premises;
(b)Â
No sign shall exceed 32 square feet in area on one side or 64
square feet on all sides; and
(c)Â
The sign shall be removed within 72 hours following the issuance
of an occupancy permit. Temporary signs allowed as part of a development
agreement shall be removed as specified in that agreement.
(d)Â
Notwithstanding the above, pursuant to Wis. Stats. § 66.1102(5),
any person who is the owner, or other person in lawful possession
or control, of a construction site may install a banner over the entire
height and length of a fence surrounding the construction site.
(3)Â
Bulletin boards. Bulletin boards are not to exceed four square feet
in area on one side and located on the building.
(4)Â
Signs cut into buildings. Signs and tablets when cut into any masonry
surface or when constructed of metal and affixed flat against a building
may not exceed two square feet in area. Signs may be approved larger
than two square feet by the Plan on the basis of unique design considerations.
(5)Â
Official signs. Official signs, such as traffic control, parking
restrictions, welcome signs and related entrance signs, neighborhood
watch signs, and public notices approved by the Zoning Administrator.
(6)Â
Lot signs. Permanent directional signs located at the entrance and
exit of a driveway or street shall not exceed two square feet.
(7)Â
Parking signs. Signs in the parking lot shall be mounted no less
than four feet from the ground and shall not exceed 24 inches high
by 30 inches wide.
(8)Â
Flags. Property owners shall be permitted one flag per 25 feet of
frontage on a right-of-way up to a maximum of three flags and three
flagpoles per premises. Each flag must be a maximum of 15 square feet
in area. Flagpoles must be a maximum of 50 feet in height, but no
higher than the highest point of the nearest principal building's
roof on the premises. Flagpoles must meet the minimum yard setback
requirements for a principal building or a minimum of 10 feet, whichever
is more restrictive.
(9)Â
Signs on external walls. No signs may be placed on an external wall.
(10)Â
Election campaign periods. During an election campaign period,
as defined in Wis. Stats. § 12.04, there is no limit on
the number or square footage of signs allowed; provided, however,
that such signs shall not interfere with traffic or pedestrian safety
and shall not be placed in the vision clearance triangle. Said signs
may be placed on property zoned for any use and on property abutting
that property for which the owner or renter is responsible for the
maintenance or care. A sign having an electrical or mechanical auxiliary
requires a permit, may not be located closer than 10 feet to an adjacent
property or driveway, may not cause a hazard to traffic or adjoining
properties, and may not exceed 12 square feet in area on one side
or 24 square feet on all sides. No sign may have an audio auxiliary
in a residential district.
(11)Â
Original art display. Original art displays are allowed provided
that they meet the following requirements:
(a)Â
Must not be placed on the front of a dwelling;
(b)Â
Must not extend more than six inches from the plane of the wall
upon which it is painted or to which it is affixed;
(c)Â
Must be no more than 24 square feet in size, per lot or parcel;
(d)Â
Compensation must not be given or received for the display of
the original art or the right to place the original art on site; and
(e)Â
May not be illuminated.
Each planned community development district in the Village is covered in its own separate section of Article VIII of this chapter. The specific section lists the allowed residential and/or nonresidential uses within that district. When the Zoning Administrator determines whether nonresidential or residential sign regulations apply, the Zoning Administrator will first determine whether the allowed uses listed in the particular PCDD for that parcel are residential or nonresidential, and then apply the appropriate regulation to the use on the parcel.
A.Â
An application for a sign permit shall be made on a form provided
by the Zoning Administrator and shall contain or have attached thereto
at least the following information:
(1)Â
Name, address and telephone number of the applicant. Location of
building, structure, or lot to which or upon which the sign is to
be attached or erected.
(2)Â
Name of person, firm, corporation, or association erecting the sign.
(3)Â
In cases where more than one business occupies a single building,
the assignment of on-building sign area to the various businesses
shall be at the discretion of the property owner. This allocation
shall be specified in the sign application.
(4)Â
Written consent of the owner or lessee of the building, structure,
or land to which or upon which the sign is to be affixed.
(5)Â
A scale drawing of such sign indicating the dimensions, the materials
to be used, the colors on the sign, the type of illumination, if any,
and the method of construction and attachment. The drawing shall be
drawn at a scale no smaller than one-eighth inch equals one foot and
shall be prepared, signed and sealed by a registered professional
engineer when required by the Zoning Administrator.
(6)Â
A scale drawing indicating the location and position of such sign
in relation to nearby buildings or structures. The drawing shall be
at a scale no smaller than one inch equals 50 feet.
(7)Â
Copies of any other permits required.
(8)Â
Signs requiring state approval shall provide a copy of such approval
with the sign permit application.
(9)Â
Additional information may be required by the Zoning Administrator
or Plan Commission.
B.Â
Sign permit applications shall be filed with the Zoning Administrator
who may approve or deny the application, in writing, within 20 working
days after submittal. A sign permit shall become invalid if work authorized
under the permit has not been completed within six months of the date
of issuance.
C.Â
At the time of the filing of the application for a permit, the applicant
shall furnish to the Zoning Administrator the fee for the permit in
accordance with the current fee schedule set by the Village Board.
D.Â
Waiver of some requirements. The Zoning Administrator may waive the
requirements for certain plans, specification, data, or drawings when
the application is to execute minor alterations or repairs to a sign,
provided that the proposed construction, alteration, or repair is
sufficiently described in the application for the permit.
E.Â
The sign permit fee shall be established by the Village Board and
set forth in the Fee Schedule.
A.Â
Sign materials. Signs should be constructed predominantly of natural
materials, such as rough cedar, pine or other types of wood, Stained
glass may also be used. Manufactured materials that give the appearance
of natural materials are also permitted. Signs with relief are encouraged.
Supporting members or braces of all signs shall be constructed of
approved materials. Halo-lit and channel-lit signs may be constructed
of any modern material that is substantially similar in construction
to the examples provided in the appendix.
B.Â
Covering architectural details. Signs shall not cover architectural
details such as, but not limited to, arches, sills, moldings, cornices
and transom windows. It may be required that existing signboards or
sign bands be used for placement of signs.
C.Â
Construction standards. The applicant shall be responsible for obtaining
the necessary permits to comply with Village and state building, electric
and WisDOT codes.
D.Â
Protection of the public. The temporary occupancy of a sidewalk or
street or other public property during construction, removal, repair,
alteration or maintenance of a sign is permitted provided the space
occupied is roped off, fenced off or otherwise isolated. The Zoning
Administrator shall be notified at least 24 hours in advance of such
proposed obstruction.
E.Â
Sign location affecting egress. No sign or any part thereof, or sign
anchors, braces, or guide rods shall be attached, fastened, or anchored
to any fire escape, fire ladder, or standpipe, and no sign or any
part of a sign or any anchor, brace or guide rod shall be erected,
put up, or maintained so as to hinder or prevent ingress or egress
through a door, doorway, or window or so as to hinder or prevent the
raising or placing of ladders against a building by the Fire Department,
as necessity may require.
A.Â
Colors that are of the neon or fluorescent families may be used in
window signage only, and may be hung on the inside surface of a window.
No more than 16 square feet of window neon or fluorescent signage
is permitted per structure. Neon and fluorescent signs are only allowed
in the B-1, B-2, and B-3 Districts.
B.Â
Signs shall not resemble, imitate or approximate the shape, size,
form or color of traffic signs, signals or devices. Signs may be illuminated
as set forth herein, but nonflashing.
C.Â
Signs in residential districts shall only be lit with halo or channel
sign lighting methods.
D.Â
No sign shall be illuminated except as follows:
(1)Â
Natural illumination or background illumination from street lighting
or parking lot lighting.
(2)Â
Shielded spotlights designed to focus the light only on the sign.
(3)Â
The maximum permitted illumination on the face shall not exceed five
footcandles.
(4)Â
Searchlights may not be used in the Village without a permit. The
Plan Commission may permit the temporary use of a searchlight in a
nonresidential district, provided that the searchlight will not be
located in any public right-of-way, will not be located closer than
20 feet to an adjacent property, and will not cause a hazard to traffic
or adjoining properties. Searchlight permits shall not be granted
for a period of more than five days in any six-month period. If, however,
representatives of federal, state or local government agencies wish
to operate a searchlight in the Village for official business, no
permit will be required.
(5)Â
Channel- or halo-lit signs are allowed.
A.Â
Area of sign. Sign area shall be calculated as follows:
(1)Â
Standard sign. The area of a standard sign shall be calculated as
the sum of the area within the smallest regular rectangle that will
encompass all elements of the actual sign face, including any writing,
logos, representations, emblems, or any figures or similar characters,
together with any material forming an integral part of the display
or forming the backing surface or background on which the message
or symbols are displayed.
(2)Â
Wall sign. For a sign painted on or applied to a building or to a
freestanding wall, the area shall be considered to include all lettering,
wording, and accompanying designs or symbols, together with any background
of a different color than the natural color or finish material of
the building or architectural wall. The architectural wall shall be
subject to Plan Commission approval of the site and landscaping plan.
The main supporting sign structure (i.e., brackets, posts, foundation,
etc.) shall not be included in the area measurement.
(3)Â
Letter signs. The gross surface area of a skeleton letter wall sign
consisting of individual letters and/or symbols shall be determined
by calculating the horizontal length of the combined areas of the
smallest rectangles which encompass each word, letter, figure and
emblem on the sign, multiplied by the vertical height of the outside
dimensions of the whole sign.
(4)Â
Two-sided sign. When a sign has two or more faces, the area of all
faces shall be included in determining the area, except that where
two faces are placed back to back and the angle between the faces
measures 45° or less, the total sign area shall be computed by
measuring the square footage of a single face. When the angle between
sign faces measures greater than 45°, the total sign area shall
be computed by adding the square footage of each face.
B.Â
Sign height. Maximum or minimum sign height shall be measured from
the ground surface adjacent to the center of the bottom of the structure
supporting the sign to the top of the sign surface being regulated.
C.Â
Length of lineal building front foot. The length of the front wall
of the building adjacent and parallel or closely parallel to any abutting
street or public right-of-way. If the building is located on a corner
lot then the side of the building used for addressing purposes shall
be deemed the front of the building. If the front of the building
is uneven then that portion of the building that is adjacent and parallel
to the abutting street that is within 25 feet of the primary front
wall shall be included in the total length of the lineal building
front foot.
A.Â
Maintenance and repair. Every sign, including, but not limited to,
those signs for which permits are required, shall be maintained in
safe, presentable, and good structural condition at all times, including
replacement of defective parts, painting (except when a weathered
or natural surface is intended), repainting, cleaning, and other acts
required for the maintenance of such sign. Internally illuminated
signs shall not be allowed to be repaired, including changing the
bulbs to maintain the interior illumination. The Village will establish
a grant program to help existing internally illuminated signage owners
to replace their signs to bring them into conformity with the 2018
Code update.
B.Â
Compliance standards. The Zoning Administrator shall require compliance with all standards of this section. If the sign is not kept in good maintenance and repair in accordance with the standards outlined in this section, the Zoning Administrator shall require its removal in accordance with Subsection D of this section.
C.Â
Abandoned signs. All signs or messages shall be removed by the owner
or lessee of the premises upon which an on-premises sign is located
when the business it advertises is no longer conducted or, for an
off-premises sign, when the lease payment and rental income are no
longer provided, unless there is evidence that the owner or agent
is marketing the property for sale or lease. If the owner or lessee
fails to remove the sign, the Zoning Administrator shall give the
owner 30 days' written notice to remove such sign. Upon failure of
the owner or lessee to comply with this notice, the Village may cause
the sign to be removed and all costs of such removal shall be collected
as a special charge on the next succeeding tax roll.
D.Â
Deteriorated or dilapidated signs. The Zoning Administrator shall
give the owner or lessee of any premises on which a deteriorated or
dilapidated sign is located 60 days' written notice to repair any
deteriorated or dilapidated signs and remove such condition, without
enlarging or structurally altering such signs.
(1)Â
If it is determined that such deteriorated or dilapidated signs cannot
be repaired without structurally altering or changing the sign, then
the owner or lessee of such sign shall obtain a permit from the Zoning
Administrator for such changes or alterations.
(2)Â
Upon failure of the owner or lessee to comply with the notice set forth in Subsection C of this section, or in the event of the failure of the owner or lessee to obtain a permit as set forth in § 245-34, the Village may cause the sign to be removed and all costs of such removal shall be collected as a special charge on the next succeeding tax roll.
The following signs are prohibited in all districts:
A.Â
Abandoned signs. Any sign advertising or identifying a business or
organization which is either defunct or no longer located on the premises.
Exceptions may be granted to landmark signs, which may be preserved
and maintained even if they no longer pertain to the present use of
the premises.
B.Â
Flashing, alternating, rotating or swinging signs or devices, whether
illuminated or not, visible from the right-of-way.
C.Â
Floodlighted or reflection-illuminated signs where the light source
is positioned so that its light source is visible from a public right-of-way
by the vehicular traffic, or where the light source is visible from
adjoining property.
D.Â
Internally illuminated signs, neon and back lighted signs other than
OPEN signs, except as indicated elsewhere in this chapter.
E.Â
Flashing signs, signs with an intermittent or flashing light source,
signs containing moving parts, and signs containing reflective elements
that sparkle or twinkle in the sunlight.
F.Â
Electronic message centers, variable message signs that utilize computer-generated
messages or some other electronic means of changing copy, including
displays using incandescent lamps, LEDs, LCDs or a flipper matrix.
Holographic signs which use a rotating LED or LCD blade to display
3D graphics are not prohibited by this chapter indoors.
G.Â
Other prohibited signs:
(1)Â
A sign that is a hazard or dangerous distraction to vehicular traffic
or a nuisance to adjoining residential property.
(2)Â
A sign that resembles, imitates or approximates the shape, size,
form or color of a traffic sign, signal or device.
(3)Â
A sign that is located to interfere with the visibility or effectiveness
of any official traffic sign or signal or with driver vision at the
access point of any intersection.
(4)Â
A sign that is erected, relocated or maintained to prevent free ingress
or egress from any door, window or fire escape, or is attached to
a standpipe, fire escape or utility pole.
(5)Â
A sign that contains, includes, or is illuminated by flashing light
or by any light directed toward a neighboring residence, road, or
highway.
(6)Â
A sign that contains, includes, or is composed of any conspicuous
animated part, except holographic signs.
(7)Â
A sign that is painted on a rock or rocks, except in institutional
zoning districts.
(8)Â
Inflatable devices or signs.
(9)Â
A display that would be an original art display but does not have
the permission of the owner of the property on which it is located
or is graffiti.
(10)Â
Off-premises signs larger than the maximum permitted square
footage per face.
(11)Â
Signs taller than eight feet in height, except as permitted
elsewhere in this chapter.
(12)Â
A "V" sign shall be prohibited unless the backs of both signs
display no letters or symbols and are landscaped to screen their backsides.
(13)Â
Reflective lights.
(14)Â
Mobile signs unless permitted as a temporary use.
(15)Â
No sign shall be located, erected, moved, reconstructed, extended,
enlarged, converted or structurally altered in a Shoreland-Wetland,
Shoreland, or Floodplain District.
A.Â
Notification of nonconformance. Upon determination that a sign is
nonconforming, the Zoning Administrator shall use reasonable efforts
to so notify, in writing, the user or owner of the property on which
the sign is located of the following:
B.Â
Signs eligible for characterization as legal nonconforming. Any sign
located within the Village limits, or located in an area annexed to
the Village hereafter, that does not conform to the provisions of
this chapter is eligible for characterization as a legal nonconforming
sign and is allowed, providing it also meets the following requirements:
(1)Â
The sign was covered by a sign permit prior to the date of adoption
of the prior zoning ordinance, this article or amendment.
(2)Â
No permit was required by the Village at the time the sign was erected,
and the sign was not changed or altered after the effective date of
this article or a prior zoning ordinance in a manner that under this
chapter would have caused a loss of nonconforming status.
(3)Â
An existing sign located closer than 10 feet to the street right-of-way
in the B-3 District shall not be deemed nonconforming solely on that
basis.
C.Â
Loss of legal nonconforming status. A sign loses its legal nonconforming
status when any one of the following occurs:
(1)Â
The sign is structurally altered in any way, except for normal maintenance
or repair, which tends to or makes the sign less in compliance with
the requirements of this section than it was before alteration.
(2)Â
The sign is damaged and requires repair.
(3)Â
The replacement of a nonconforming sign with an identical sign is
not allowed.
D.Â
Legal nonconforming sign maintenance and repair. Nothing in this
section shall relieve the owner or user of a legal nonconforming sign,
or the owner of the property in which the sign is located, from the
provisions of this section regarding safety, maintenance and repair
of the sign. All work, including repainting, requires a permit.
A.Â
Signs of historic significance that make a contribution to the cultural,
or historic quality of the Village because of their unique construction
materials or unique design, unusual age, prominent location within
the Village, or unique craftsmanship from another period of time may
be exempted from any or all size, height, animation, lighting, or
setback requirements of the section, when the Zoning Administrator
finds the following conditions exist:
(1)Â
The sign is of exemplary technology, craftsmanship, or design of
the period in which it was constructed; uses historic sign materials
(wood, metal, or paint applied directly to a building) and means of
illumination (neon or incandescent fixtures); and is not significantly
altered from its historic period. If the sign has been altered, it
must be restored to its historic function and appearance.
(2)Â
The sign is integrated into the architecture of a period building.
B.Â
A sign not meeting the criteria listed above may be considered if
it demonstrates extraordinary aesthetic quality, creativity or innovation
in design.
A.Â
Review. Except as otherwise authorized, no sign requiring a permit
under this article and visible from a state or county highway, from
any Village street, from a private street, from a public parking lot,
from a private parking lot, from the water or from any adjacent property
shall be located, erected, moved, repainted with different colors,
reconstructed, extended, enlarged, or structurally altered, including
the placement of various components of the sign, until a permit has
been applied for, reviewed and approved by the Zoning Administrator
and a permit has been issued to the property owner or building occupant.
B.Â
Referral. The Zoning Administrator may refer sign permit applications
to the Plan Commission for architectural review if, in the Administrator's
judgment, the sign design is at odds with the neighborhood in which
it will be placed.
C.Â
Signs located on a property or location with multiple buildings or
businesses under common or separate ownership shall not be exempt
from the requirements of this Code.
D.Â
Additions to and alterations of existing signs and support structures
require a new permit.