HomeMy WebLinkAboutPCAgenda_08May27City of Falcon Heights
Planning Commission
City Hall
2077 W. Larpenteur Avenue
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
7:00 p.m.
AGENDA
A. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL: Anderson Hasegawa Lukermann
-Noble Rodich Salzberg__
. Watkins Council Liaison Kuettel
City Administrator Miller Staff Liaison Jones
City Attorney
C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: April 22, 2007
D. PUBLIC COMMENT: LED and dynamic display signs
E. AGENDA:
1. Discussion: LED and dynamic display signs
F. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
If you have a disability and need accommodation in order to attend this meeting,
please nottfy City Ha1148 hours in advance between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30
p.m. at 651-792-7600. We will be happy to help.
•
City of Falcon Heights
Planning Commission
City Hall
2077 W. Larpenteur Avenue
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
7:00 p.m.
AGENDA
A. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL: Anderson Hasegawa Lukermann
Noble Rodich Salzberg
Watkins Council Liaison Kuettel
City Administrator Miller Staff Liaison Jones
C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Apri122, 2007
D. PUBLIC COMMENT: LED and dynamic display signs
E. AGENDA:
1. Discussion: LED and dynamic display signs
F. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
If you have a disability and need accommodation in order to attend this meeting,
please notify City Ha1148 hours in advance between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30
p.m. at 651-792-7600. We will be happy to help.
City Attorney
CITY OF
FALCON HEIGHTS 2077 W. Larpenteur Avenue
Falcon Heights, MN 55113-5594
email: mailQci.falcon-heights.mn.us Phone - (651) 792-7600
website: www.ci.falcon-heights.mn.us Fax - (651) 792-7610
MEMORANDUM
To: Members of the Planning Commission
CC: Justin Miller, City Administrator;
Laura Kuettel, Council Liaison
From: Deb Jones, Staff Liaison
Subject: Planning Commission eeting on May 27, 2008
Date: May 23, 2008
The Planning Commission has only one agenda item this month, the continued
consideration of the issue of dynamic display and similar signs.
The meeting will begin with the first of two informal public comment sessions, the other
to be held at the commission s June 24 meeting. City businesses and commercial
• property owners were mailed invitations to this meeting. Notice to the general public
was made by website, bulk email and flyer.
Although the comment period is not a formal hearing, we need to use the same general
format to make sure comments are included in the digital recording of the meeting.
However, you have no decision you need to make at this time, so you only need to
listen. Staff would like to request that you be firm about confining public comments to
the subject of the signs named in the moratorium.
Sample ordinances from six municipalities are attached to the staff report. We hope you
will take advantage of the references given and read these selections in context. We did
our best to extract the relevant portions of the selected chapters, but some essentials may
have been missed. You are also welcome to seek out additional examples and email
them to me or bring them to the meeting.
Joel Jamnik from the City Attorney's office will again be present, to answer questions
from the public during the comment period and provide advice during commission
discussion afterward. We hope you will begin this month to approach a consensus about
what is appropriate for Falcon Heights.
As always, please notify staff if you are unable to be present for the meeting..
Have a good and safe Memorial Day weekend! See you Tuesday!
HOME OF THE MINNESOTA STATE FAIR AND THE U OF M INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURE
PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER
•
•
MEMORANDUM
To: Members of the Planning Commission
CC: Justin Miller, City Administrator;
Laura Kuettel, Council Liaison
From: Deb Jones, Staff Liaison
Subject: Planning Commission Meeting on May 27, 2008
Date: May 23, 2008
The Planning Commission has only one agenda item this month, the continued
consideration of the issue of dynamic display and similar signs.
The meeting will begin with the first of two informal public comment sessions, the other
to be held at the commission s June 24 meeting. City businesses and commercial
property owners were mailed invitations to this meeting. Notice to the general public
was made by website, bulk email and flyer.
Although the comment period is not a formal hearing, we need to use the same general
format to make sure comments are included in the digital recording of the meeting.
However, you have no decision you need to make at this time, so you only need to
listen. Staff would like to request that you be firm about confining public comments to
the subject of the signs named in the moratorium.
Sample ordinances from six municipalities are attached to the staff report. We hope you
will take advantage of the references given and read these selections in context. We did
our best to extract the relevant portions of the selected chapters, but some essentials may
have been missed. You are also welcome to seek out additional examples and email
them to me or bring them to the meeting.
Joel Jamnik from the City Attorney's office will again be present, to answer questions
from the public during the comment period and provide advice during commission
discussion afterward. We hope you will begin this month to approach a consensus about
what is appropriate for Falcon Heights.
As always, please notify staff if you are unable to be present for the meeting..
Have a good and safe Memorial Day weekend! See you Tuesday!
City of Falcon Heights
• Planning Commission Minutes
Apri122, 2008
PRESENT: Commissioners Hasegawa, Lukermann, Rodich, Watkins. Also present
were City Attorney Joel Jamnik and Staff Liaison Deb Jones.
ABSENT with notice: Commissioners Anderson, Noble and Salzberg, Council
Liaison Kuettel
A quorum being present, the meeting was called to order by Chairman Watkins at
7:04 p.m. The minutes of the March 25, 2008, meeting were approved.
PUBLIC HEARING: Vacation of Walk 4
Prior to the opening of the hearing, staff liaison Jones presented the background of
this case. Walk 4 is a 12 foot by 152 foot strip of city owned land between 1742 and
1748 Tatum. For at least 20 years Walk 4 has been used by the owners of the
adjoining properties as part of their yards, although the land was never vacated to
those properties. A fence runs down the middle of the strip, which ends at the rear
property line of 1745 Lindig to the east.
• The owner of 1742 Tatum, Choong-Sihn Youn, petitioned the city to vacate the land.
As his neighbor at 1748 Tatum declined to participate in the petition or share
associated costs, Mr. Youn's petition asked that the entire 12 foot width be added to
his property. Staff found no record of any utility easement or other easement on
Walk 4 and no evidence of the city having an interest in retaining the land for public
purposes.
The Chair opened the hearing. The first speaker was Choong-Sihn Youn, 1742 Tatum,
the applicant. Mr. Youn said he and his family moved to their present home in 1984,
never imagining they would be there so long. However, they really love the
neighborhood and now that their children are grown, he and his wife wish to make
alterations to their house to make it more comfortable. In preliminary discussions
with city staff about options, including the expansion of the attached garage, he was
made aware for the first time of the existence of Walk 4, which meant his property
line was not where he thought it was, greatly limiting his options for remodeling his
home. After receiving additional information from city staff and the city attorney, he
approached his neighbor on the other side of Walk 4 about petitioning the city to
vacate Walk 4. When his neighbor declined to be involved, he decided to apply to the
city alone and ask for the full width of Walk 4.
• The next speaker was Mr. Leroy Martin, 1748 Tatum street. Mr. Martin expressed his
opposition to the petition and does not see any reason for the city to change the
status quo. He was concerned about the existing fence and pointed out that it
City of Falcon Heights -Planning Conunission Meeting of April 22, 2008 -Page 1 of 3
couldn't have been properly permitted if the land was not supposed to be part of the
• adjoining lots. He said the lack of a permit should be investigated. What would
happen if the fence was not at the half way point?
Mr. Florian Lauer, 1736 Tatum, was the next speaker. He cited an earlier walkway
vacation further north on Tatum.
There being no one else who wished to speak, the hearing was closed.
DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATION:
The commissioners began their discussion with a request to city attorney Jamnik for
his advice. Mr. Jamnik informed the commissioners that the sole purpose of their
present discussion was to make a recommendation to the City Council as to whether
the City has any interest in retaining ownership of Walk 4. Beyond that the fence and
location of the property line becomes a private property matter. The commission's
sole focus is the public interest.
In view of that recommendation, Commissioner Lukermann moved for the purpose
of discussion that the Commission find that there is no further public interest in Walk
4. After some additional discussion, the motion passed unanimously. The matter
• will now go to the City Council.
CITY COUNCIL MORATORIUM ON PERMITS FOR CERTAIN SIGNS
Staff Liaison Jones provided an introduction to Commissioners and the viewing
audience. On March 12, the City Council passed an interim ordinance temporarily
prohibiting the issuance of permits for certain kinds of signs using new technology,
including dynamic display designs and electronic graphic display signs and other
similar signs. The Planning Commission has been directed to study the issue and
come up with a recommendation for the City Council before the moratorium expires
on September 10. Jones out fined the expected timetable and said that two public
comment sessions have been scheduled for the May and June meetings of the
Planning Commission. Tonight is an introduction to the issue and an opportunity for
commissioners to ask questions of the city attorney and staff.
Commissioner Rodich asked if any present signs in the city fall into the categories
covered by the moratorium. Jones said that the only changeable sign is a time and
temperature strip at the credit union building, but that sign is being rebuilt and may
to include that display in the future. Also, the two service station signs change the
• prices, but these signs are not considered to be in the categories covered in the
moratorium.
City of Falcon Heights -Planning Commission Meeting of Apri122, 2008 -Page 2 of 3
Commissioner Hasegawa asked if any other signs are grandfathered into our current
• code. Jones said there could be some but they would be very old, and signs are
replaced often enough that it is unlikely there are more than a few. The roof sign for
The Source Comics and Games is nonconforming. In response to another question
from the commissioner she confirmed that city sign codes do not apply to the State
Fair and the university campus.
Commissioners had several questions for the city attorney Jamnik regarding the
city's potential exposure to legal challenge if different levels of restriction were
imposed, from making the moratorium permanent (a complete prohibition) to
restrictions based on zoning districts.
Mr. Jamnik said it might be possible to construct an argument that a complete
prohibition would restrict free speech unduly. In fact he knows of no city that has a
total ban on these signs, nor has he seen a city ordinance challenged. Although his
answer is speculative, he said, he felt making the moratorium permanent would
place the city at risk of challenge and having the ordinance overturned, because the
moratorium is so restrictive. He said that not only traffic safety can inform and
support a city's regulation of this matter but also protection of the "peace and quiet"
of residential zones with classic "time, place, and manner" restrictions that are
content neutral. Such restrictions could address, for instance, the brightness of signs,
or their proximity to residential property.
•
INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS: None
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m. to a short workshop.
Respectfully submitted,
Debora Jones, Staff Liaison
WORKSHOP:
The Commissioners met briefly after the adjournment of the formal meeting to ask
more questions of the city attorney, begin informal discussion of the issue and
formulate research requests for staff. Commissioners asked for sample ordinances
from other cities which have already addressed this issue in their codes.
C
City of Falcon Heights -Planning Commission Meeting of Apri122, 2008 -Page 3 of 3
Planning Commission
• 5/27/08
ITEM: City Moratorium and Study on Dynamic Signs
SUBMITTED BY: Deborah Jones, Zoning and Planning Director
REVIEWED BY: Justin Miller, City Administrator
Roger Knutson, City Attorney
EXPLANATION:
Background:
The city's current sign code, while slightly adjusted during the recodification process a
few years ago, has remained mostly unchanged over the past several years. New
technology now allows for signs to use eye-catching techniques such as moving pictures
and text, bright flashing lights, and the use of an array of colors. On March 12, 2008,
Falcon Heights City Council adopted an interim ordinance prohibiting the issuance of
permits for certain designated signs for a period of six months and referred the matter to
the Planning Commission for their review and input. At the April 22 meeting of the
Planning Commission, commissioners had an opportunity to ask questions of the city's
attorney and to begin discussion of this issue.
According to the timetable recommended by staff, the plan for this evening's meeting is
to take comment from the public and to review staff research. The goal is to begin
setting a direction for any changes that need to be made to the city code.
At the request of the Commission, examples of city ordinances related to electronic and
dynamic display signs have been assembled and are attached to this report. Staff found
that cities which have directly addressed the issue of new dynamic sign technology have
either prohibited these signs outright or imposed significant restrictions on them.
Restrictions typically address location, district limitations, setback from residential
zones, setback from similar signage, orientation, brightness, duration of message, mode
of message change, and audio or other effects. Dynamic signs are usually already
subject to existing size, location and setback restrictions in municipal sign codes.
An essential element of the six months study period is input from the community.
Informal public comment sessions have been scheduled for the May 27 and June 24
Planning Commission meetings. Residents were notified of the opportunity for public
comment by city flyer, the city website and the email list. Letters were sent to Falcon
Heights businesses and commercial property owners inviting them to this evening's
meeting to share their thoughts with the Commission.
•
Staff Report: City Moratorium and Study on Dynamic Signs Page 1 of 3
Planning Commission, May 27, 2008 ~
Research: Sign codes in other cities •
Six cities were chosen for inclusion m this report, three that prohibit dynamic electronic
signs and three that allow such signs. As sign codes can be lengthy documents, staff
have extracted portions relevant to the topic under discussion. Commissioners are
welcome to read the full documents (html references provided) or do further research on
their own.
Each city uses a slightly different set of terms and definitions, but similar or identical
language has been used, especially by those cities that prohibit this type of sign. There is
more variation in the codes that allow dynamic signs. Typically these ordinances
address the following:
In commercial districts
• District limitations
• Distance from residential properties (100 feet typical)
• Visibility from residential structures
• Setback from similar signs
• Size and number of signs
• Duration of message
• Mode of change
• Brightness
• Restricted to the use on the site (i.e. no general advertising)
In residential districts, if allowed
• Only for parks, recreation facilities, churches, schools, etc.
• With additional restrictions for size, brightness, etc.
Samyle Ordinances (selected excerpts) attached
Lakeville -prohibits "changeable copy signs" (Title 11, Cha. 23, Section 7)
http: / / 66.113.234/ MN/ Lakeville/ index.htm Use search
Hopkins - prohibits "changeable copy signs" (Section 570-25)
http:/ /mail.hopkinsmn.com/weblink7/Browse.asp.
Click "Zoning Code" under "Archive", then click "570 Signs" to download
Arden Hills -prohibits "dynamic display signs' (Chapter 12)
http:/ /www.ci.arden-hills.mn.us
Under "Find Information On..." select "City Codes"
Then select "City Code of Ordinances" and go to Chapter 12
Minnetonka -Allows with "significant controls" (Section 300.30.14)
http:/ / eminnetonka.com/your government/city_code.cfm
Use the link on the page to go to city code hosed on American Legal Publishing
Use navigation there to go to Chapter 3
Staff Report: City Moratorium and Study on Dynamic Signs Page 2 of 3
Planning Commission, May 27, 2008 2
Bloomington -Prohibits "video display signs," "electronic changeable copy signs' and
• "electronic graphic display signs" except for specific exceptions
http://www.ci.bloomington, mn.us/code/code.html
Go to Zoning, Chapter 19, and find Article X: Sign Regulations
St. Paul -Allows with restrictions and sets up a formula for converting static billboards
to dynamic signs with the goal of reducing the number of billboards.
http:/ /www.stpaul.gov/web/ CityCode/1c064.htm1
Action Requested:
Take informal comment from the public. Review staff research and direct questions to
city attorney. Conduct a preliminary discussion on the appropriate direction for Falcon
Heights with respect to dynamic signs.
•
•
Staff Report: City Moratorium and Study on Dynamic Signs Page 3 of 3
Planning Commission, May 27, 2008 3
LAKEVILLE, Page 1 of 3
City of Lakeville (selected portions of the sign code)
CHAPTER 23: SIGNS
11-23-1: FINDINGS, PURPOSE AND EFFECT:
A.Findings: The city finds:
1. Exterior signs have a substantial impact on the character and quality of the
environment.
2. Signs provide an important medium through which individuals may convey a variety
of messages.
3. Signs can create traffic hazards and aesthetic concerns, thereby threatening the public
health, safety and welfare.
4. The city's zoning regulations have, since as early as 1970, included the regulation of
signs in an effort to provide adequate means of expression and to promote the economic
viability of the business community, while protecting the city and its citizens from a
proliferation of signs of a type, size, location and character that would adversely impact
upon the aesthetics of the community and threaten the health, safety and welfare of the
community. The regulation of the physical characteristics of signs within the city has had
a positive impact on traffic safety and the appearance of the community.
•
B.Purpose And Intent: It is not the purpose or intent of this sign ordinance to regulate the
message displayed on any sign; nor is it the purpose or intent of this chapter to regulate any
building design or any display not defined as a sign, or any sign which cannot be viewed from
outside a building. The purpose and intent of this chapter is to:
1. Regulate the number, location, size, type, illumination and other physical
characteristics of signs within the city in order to promote the public health, safety and
welfare.
2. Maintain, enhance and improve the aesthetic environment of the city by preventing
visual clutter that is harmful to the appearance of the community.
3. Improve the visual appearance of the city while providing for effective means of
communication, consistent with constitutional guarantees and the city's goals of public
safety and aesthetics.
4. Provide for fair and consistent enforcement of the sign regulations set forth herein
under the zoning authority of the city.
C.Effect: A sign may be erected, mounted, displayed or maintained in the city if it is in
conformance with the provisions of this chapter. The effect of this chapter, as more specifically
set forth herein, is to:
1. Allow a wide variety of sign types in commercial zones, and a more limited variety of
signs in other zones, subject to the standards set forth in this sign ordinance.
2. Allow certain small, unobtrusive signs incidental to the principal use of a site in all
zones when in compliance with the requirements of this sign ordinance.
3. Prohibit signs whose location, size, type, illumination or other physical characteristics
negatively affect the environment and where the communication can be accomplished by
LAKEVILLE, Page 2 of 3
means having a lesser impact on the environment and the public health, safety and
• welfare.
4. Provide for the administration and enforcement of the provisions of this sign
ordinance. (Ord. 816, sec. 4, 2-5-2007)
11-23-15: GENERAL REGULATIONS:
G.Illuminated Signs: Illuminated signs shall be shielded to prevent lights from being directed at
oncoming traffic in such brilliance that it impairs the vision of the driver and may not interfere
with or obscure traffic signs or signals. Lighting may not illuminate any adjacent properties,
buildings, or streets. (Ord. 816, sec. 4, 2-5-2007)
V.Changeable Copy Signs: Within commercial and industrial districts, one changeable copy sign
(but not including electronic changeable copy signs) shall be allowed per site provided that the
area of the sign not exceed twenty five percent (25%) of the allowable sign area or forty (40)
square feet, whichever is less, for a freestanding or wall sign.
W.Time And Temperature Sign: Within commercial and industrial zoning districts, an area not
• to exceed sixteen (16) square feet within a freestanding or wall sign shall be allowed for display
of an electronic time and temperature sign subject to the sign provisions for the zoning district in
which the sign is located.
11-23-17: PROHIBITED SIGNS:
The following signs are prohibited:
A.Any sign, signal, marking or device which purports to be or is an imitation of or resembles any
official traffic control device or railroad sign or signal, or emergency vehicle signs, or which
attempts to direct the movement of traffic or which hides from view or interferes with the
effectiveness of any official traffic control device or any railroad sign or signal.
B.AII signs over six hundred (600) square feet in area, except within the P-OS district.
C.AII off premises signs greater than six (6) square feet in area except as allowed by subsections
11-23-15M and Y of this chapter.
D.Balloon signs.
E.Changeable copy signs, electronic.
F.Content classified as "obscene" as defined by Minnesota statutes section 617.241.
• G.Dynamic display signs.
LAKEVILLE, Page 3 of 3
H.Electronic graphic display signs.
I.Flashing signs.
J.Multivision signs.
K.Portable signs.
L.Roof signs.
M.Rotating signs.
N.Shimmering signs.
O.Signs painted, attached or in any other manner affixed to trees or similar natural surfaces, or
attached to utility poles, bridges, towers, or similar public structures.
P.Video display signs. (Ord. 827, sec. 4, 7-16-2007)
11-23-19: DISTRICT REGULATIONS:
In addition to the signs allowed by sections 11-23-7 and 11-23-15 of this chapter, the following
signs shall be allowed within the specific zoning districts:
H.Within the P-OS district the following additional regulations shall apply:
1. Freestanding Sign: One sign is allowed per lot. The area of a freestanding sign may not
exceed one hundred (100) square feet each side with a maximum height of twenty feet •
(20')
2. Wall, Canopy, Or Marquee Signs: For single occupancy buildings, not more than one
wall, canopy, or marquee sign shall be permitted on one facade fronting a public street,
except in the case of a corner lot or through lot where wall signs maybe installed on two
(2) facades fronting a public street. The area of individual signs shall not be limited.
3. Changeable Copy Signs: In addition to the sign allowed by subsection H1 of this
section, one changeable copy sign (but not including electronic changeable copy signs)
shall be allowed per frontage to a major collector or arterial street provided that the area
of the sign not exceed forty (40) square feet for a freestanding or wall sign. (Ord. 827,
sec. 8, 7-16-2007)
•
HOPKINS, Page 1
Hopkins, Minnesota: Selected portions of the sign code
Hopkins City Code (Zoning) 570.00
• (Replaced 8-16-OS)
Section 570 -Signs
Preamble:
The City Council fmds that the lack of a comprehensive, constitutionally sound ordinance
regulating signs in the City of Hopkins constitutes an emergency threatening public
health, safety and welfare because, among other concerns, (1) signs could be erected
without regard to the manner in which the size or location of the sign or signs interferes
with traffic sight lines, endangering or distracting drivers and pedestrians alike, thereby
causing traffic hazards and; (2) signs could be constructed in a manner or from such
materials as are structurally unsound vulnerable to collapse, endangering persons or
property in the vicinity of the signs.
The following ordinance is adopted as Section 570 of the Hopkins City Code:
570.01 Findings, purpose and effect.
Subd. 1. Findings. The City Council hereby finds as follows:
a. Exterior signs have a substantial impact on the character and quality of the
environment.
b. Signs provide an important medium through which individuals may convey a
variety of messages.
c. Signs can create traffic hazards, aesthetic concerns and detriments to property
values, thereby threatening the public health, safety and welfare.
d. The city's zoning regulations have, since as early as 1966, included the regulation
of signs in an effort to provide adequate means of expression and to promote the
economic viability of the business community, while protecting the City and its
citizens from a proliferation of signs of a type, size, location and character that
would adversely impact upon the aesthetics of the community and threaten the
health, safety and welfare of the community. The regulation of the physical
characteristics of signs within the City has had a positive impact on traffic safety
and the appearance of the community.
Subd. 2. Purpose and intent. It is not the purpose or intent of this sign ordinance to
regulate the message displayed on any sign; nor is it the purpose or intent of this
ordinance to regulate any building design or any display not defined as a sign, or any sign
which cannot be viewed from outside a building. The purpose and intent of this ordinance
is to:
•
Section 570 Page 1
Hopkins City Code (Zoning)
HOPKINS, Page 2
570.01 Subd.2
(Replaced 8-16-OS)
a. Regulate the number, location, size, type, illumination and other physical
characteristics of signs within the city in order to promote the public
health, safety and welfare.
b. Maintain, enhance and improve the aesthetic environment of the city by
preventing visual clutter that is harmful to the appearance of the
community.
c. Improve the visual appearance of the City while providing for effective
means of communication, consistent with constitutional guarantees and
the City's goals of public safety and aesthetics.
d. Provide for fair and consistent enforcement of the sign regulations set for
herein under the zoning authority of the City.
Subd. 3. Effect. A sign maybe erected, mounted, displayed or maintained in the city if it
is in conformance with the provisions of this ordinance. The effect of this ordinance, as
more specifically set forth herein, is to:
a. Allow a wide variety of sign types in commercial zones, and a more
limited variety of signs in other zones, subject to the standards set forth in
this sign ordinance.
b. Allow certain small, unobtrusive signs incidental to the principal use of a
site in all zones when in compliance with the requirements of this sign
ordinance.
c. Prohibit signs whose location, size, type, illumination or other physical
characteristics negatively affect the environment and where the
communication can be accomplished by means having a lesser impact on
the environment and the public health, safety and welfare.
d. Provide for the enforcement of the provisions of this sign ordinance.
570.05. Definitions. Subdivision 1. The following words and phrases, when used in this Section
570, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Subd. 10 "Changeable copy sign" - a sign or portion thereof with characters, letters, or
illustrations that can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign.
Changeable copy signs do not include signs upon which characters, letters or illustrations change
or rearrange only once in a 24-hour period.
Subd. 16 "Flashing sign" - a directly or indirectly illuminated sign which exhibits changing light
or color effect by any means, so as to provide intermittent illumination which includes the
illusion of intermittent flashing light by means of animation. Also any mode of lighting which
resembles zooming, twinkling, or sparkling.
•
•
Section 570 Page 2
HOPKINS, Page 3
Subd. 21 "Illuminated sign" -any sign which contains an element designed to emanate artificial
light internally or externally.
• ...
Subd. 44 "Rotating sign" - a sign or portion of a sign which turns about on an axis.
Subd. 45 "Shimmering signs" - a sign which reflects an oscillating sometimes distorted visual
image.
Subd. 46 "Sign" -any letter, word or symbol, poster, picture, statuary, reading matter or
representation in the nature of advertisement, announcement, message or visual communication,
whether painted, posted, printed, affixed or constructed, including all associated brackets, braces,
supports, wires and structures, which is displayed for informational or communicative purposes.
The definitions set forth in this Section 570.05 are in addition to the definitions set forth in
Section 515.07, which shall apply to this Section 570, except that in the event of a conflict
between the Sections, the definition in Section 570 shall apply.
570.25. Unauthorized signs.
The following signs are unauthorized signs and are prohibited by this Section:
a. Any sign, signal, marking or device which purports to be or is an imitation of or
resembles any official traffic control device or railroad sign or signal, or
emergency vehicle signal, or which attempts to direct the movement of traffic or
which hides from view or interferes with the effectiveness of any official traffic-
control device or any railroad sign or signal.
b. All off-premise signs.
c. Signs painted, attached or in any other manner affixed to trees, rocks, or similar
natural surfaces, or attached to public utility poles, bridges, towers, or similar
public structures.
d. Portable signs.
e. Changeable copy signs.
U
Section 570 Page 3
ARDEN HILLS, Page 1 of 2
City of Arden Hills Chapter 12 Sign Code (Excerpt; relevant portions in italics)
12-3
Adopted: March 10, 2008
Subd. 2 Findings. The City finds it is necessary for the promotion and preservation
of the public health, safety, welfare, and aesthetics of the community to control the
construction, location, size, and maintenance of signs. Further, the City finds:
A. Permanent and temporary signs have a direct impact on and relationship to the image
and aesthetic of the community;
B. The manner of installation, location and maintenance of signs affects the public health,
safety, welfare and aesthetics of the community;
C. An opportunity for viable identification of community businesses, residences, and
institutions must be established;
D. The safety of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and other users of public streets and
property is affected by the number, size, location and appearance of signs that create a
hazard for drivers, particularly from dynamic display signs;
E. Installation of signs suspended from, projecting over, or placed on the tops of
buildings, walks or other structures may constitute a hazard during periods of high winds
and an obstacle to effective fire -fighting and other emergency service;
F. Uncontrolled and unlimited signs and sign types, particularly dynamic display signs,
adversely impact the image and aesthetic attractiveness of the community and thereby
undermine economic value and growth;
G. Uncontrolled and unlimited signs, particularly temporary signs which are commonly
located within or adjacent to public right -of--way or are located at driveway/street
intersections, result in roadside clutter and obstruction of views of oncoming traffic. This
creates a hazard to drivers and pedestrians and also adversely impacts a logical flow of
information;
H. Commercial signs are generally incompatible with residential uses and should be
strictly limited in residential zoning districts; and I. The right to express noncommercial
opinions in any zoning district must be protected, subject to reasonable restrictions on
size, height, location and number.
1210.01 Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this
section, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this subsection, except where
the context clearly indicated a different meaning:
Subd. 6 Changeable message sign. A message that is not permanently attached to the sign
face but is not a dynamic display. The message is changed manually.
Subd. 7 Commercial message sign. Any message which identifies a business or product
or promotes the sale of any product or service. •
10
ARDEN HILLS, Page 2 of 2
Subd. 8 Dynamic Display. Any characteristics of a sign that appear to have movement or
• that appear to change, caused by any method other than physically removing and
replacing the sign or its components, whether the apparent movement or change is in the
display, the sign structure itself, or any other component of the sign. This inc Ludes a
display that incorporates a technology or method allowing the sign face to change the
image without having to physically or mechanically replace the sign face or its
components. This also includes, but is not limited to, any rotating, revolving, moving,
flashing, blinking, projecting, or animated display and any display that incorporates
rotating panels, LED lights manipulated through digital input, "digital ink, " or any other
method or technology that allows the sign face to present a series of images or displays.
1230.02 Prohibited Signs. The following signs shall be prohibited in all sign districts:
Subd. 1 Signs with Moving, Swinging, Revolving, or Rotating parts.
Subd. 2 Dynamic Display Signs.
Subd. 3 Roof Signs.
Subd. 4 Projecting signs.
Subd. 5 Noncompliant Signs. Any sign not constructed, wired, assembled, attached or
supported in conformance with applicable building or other codes and regulations;
Subd. 6 Signs in the Right-of--way. Signs in the public right-of--way except as provided
for in Section 1250.03, by Minnesota Statutes, or allowed by the agency regulating the
right-of--way;
Subd. 7 Signs attached to public utility poles, trees, street signs, stoplights, or fences;
Subd. 8 Permanent outdoor advertising sign, including billboards;
Subd. 9 Portable Signs. Portable signs shall be prohibited, except for portable A-frame,
T-frame, sandwich, or other similar signs that do not exceed six (6) square feet in size.
Subd. 10 Signs in the Clear Vision Area.
Subd. 11 Signs Imitating Traffic Control Signs. Signs which are designed to resemble
official traffic signs except signs which are used to control traffic on private property;
Subd. 11 Any sign, sign type, sign lighting, or sign technology not specifically listed as
permitted in this Chapter shall be prohibited.
•
11
MINNETONKA, PAGE 1 OF 5
Minnetonka Code of Ordinances
CHAPTER 3: ZONING REGULATIONS
(Selected Excerpts)
SECTION 300.30. SIGN ORDINANCE.
14. Dynamic Displays.
a) Findings. Studies show that there is a correlation between dynamic displays on
signs and the distraction of highway drivers. Distraction can lead to traffic accidents.
Drivers can be distracted not only by a changing message, but also by knowing that the
sign has a changing message. Drivers may watch a sign waiting for the next change to
occur. Drivers are also distracted by messages that do not tell the full story in one look.
People have a natural desire to see the end of the story and will continue to look at the
sign in order to wait for the end. Additionally, drivers are more distracted by special
effects used to change the message, such as fade-ins and fade-outs. Finally, drivers are
generally more distracted by messages that are too small to be clearly seen or that contain
more than a simple message. Time and temperature signs appear to be an exception to
these concerns because the messages are short, easily absorbed, and become inaccurate
without frequent changes.
Despite these public safety concerns, there is merit to allowing new technologies to
easily update messages. Except as prohibited by state or federal law, sign owners should
have the opportunity to use these technologies with certain restrictions. The restrictions
are intended to minimize potential driver distraction and to minimize proliferation in
residential districts where signs can adversely impact residential character.
Local spacing requirements could interfere with the equal opportunity to use such
technologies and are not included. Without those requirements, however, there is the
potential for numerous dynamic displays to exist along any roadway. If more than one
dynamic display can be seen from a given location on a road, the minimum display time
becomes critical. If the display time is too short, a driver could be subjected to a view that
appears to have constant movement. This impact would obviously be compounded in a
corridor with multiple signs. If dynamic displays become pervasive and there are no
meaningful limitations on each sign's ability to change frequently, drivers may be
subjected to an unsafe degree of distraction and sensory overload. Therefore, a longer
display time is appropriate.
A constant message is typically needed on a sign so that the public can use it to
identify and find an intended destination. Changing messages detract from this way-
finding purpose and could adversely affect driving conduct through last-second lane
changes, stops, or turns, which could result in traffic accidents. Accordingly, dynamic
displays generally should not be allowed to occupy the entire copy and graphic area of a
sign.
In conclusion, the city finds that dynamic displays should be allowed on signs but
with significant controls to minimize their proliferation and their potential threats to
MinnetonkaSignOrdinance.rtf - 1/5- 23 May 208
MINNETONKA, PAGE 2 OF 5
public safety.
b) Regulations. Dynamic displays on signs are allowed subject to the following
conditions:
1) Dynamic displays are allowed only on monument and pylon signs for
conditionally permitted uses in residential districts and for all uses in other districts.
Dynamic displays may occupy no more than 35 percent of the actual copy and graphic
area. The remainder of the sign must not have the capability to have dynamic displays
even if not used. Only one, contiguous dynamic display area is allowed on a sign face;
2) A dynamic display may not change or move more often than once every 20
minutes, except one for which changes are necessary to correct hour-and-minute, date, or
temperature information. Time, date, or temperature information is considered one
dynamic display and may not be included as a component of any other dynamic display.
A display of time, date, or temperature must remain for at least 20 minutes before
changing to a different display, but the time, date, or temperature information itself may
change no more often than once every three seconds;
3) The images and messages displayed must be static, and the transition from one
static display to another must be instantaneous without any special effects;
4) The images and messages displayed must be complete in themselves, without
continuation in content to the next image or message or to any other sign;
5) Every line of copy and graphics in a dynamic display must be at least seven
inches in height on a road with a speed limit of 25 to 34 miles per hour, nine inches on a
• road with a speed limit of 35 to 44 miles per hour, 12 inches on a road with a speed limit
of 45 to 54 miles per hour, and 15 inches on a road with a speed limit of 55 miles per
hour or more. If there is insufficient room for copy and graphics of this size in the area
allowed under clause 1 above, then no dynamic display is allowed;
6) Dynamic displays must be designed and equipped to freeze the device in one
position if a malfunction occurs. The displays must also be equipped with a means to
immediately discontinue the display if it malfunctions, and the sign owner must
immediately stop the dynamic display when notified by the city that it is not complying
with the standards of this ordinance;
7) Dynamic displays must comply with the brightness standards contained in
subdivision 15;
8) Dynamic displays existing on June 25, 2007 must comply with the operational
standards listed above. An existing dynamic display that does not meet the structural
requirements in clause 1 may continue as anon-conforming development subject to
section 300.29. An existing dynamic display that cannot meet the minimum size
requirement in clause 5 must use the largest size possible for one line of copy to fit in the
available space.
c) Incentives. Outdoor advertising signs do not need to serve the same way-finding
function as do on-premises signs. Further, outdoor advertising signs are no longer
allowed in the city, and there is no potential that they will proliferate. Finally, outdoor
MinnetonkaSignOrdinance.rtf - 2/5- 23 May 20A8
MINNETONKA, PAGE 3 OF 5
advertising signs are in themselves distracting and their removal serves public safety. The
city is extremely limited in its ability to cause the removal of those signs. This clause is
intended to provide incentives for the voluntary and uncompensated removal of outdoor
advertising signs in certain settings. This removal results in an overall advancement of
one or more of the goals set forth in this section that should more than offset any
additional burden caused by the incentives. These provisions are also based on the
recognition that the incentives create an opportunity to consolidate outdoor advertising
services that would otherwise remain distributed throughout the community.
1) A person may obtain a permit for an enhanced dynamic display on one face of
an outdoor advertising sign if the following requirements are met:
(a) The applicant agrees in writing to permanently remove, within 15 days after
issuance of the permit, at least two other faces of an outdoor advertising sign in the city
that are owned or leased by the applicant, each of which must satisfy the criteria of parts
(b) through (d) of this subsection. This removal must include the complete removal of
the structure and foundation supporting each sign face. The applicant must agree that the
city may remove the sign if the applicant does not timely do so, and the application must
be accompanied by a cash deposit or letter of credit acceptable to the city attorney
sufficient to pay the city's costs for that removal. The applicant must also agree that it is
removing the sign voluntarily and that it has no right to compensation for the removed
sign under any law.
(b) The city has not previously issued an enhanced dynamic display permit
based on the removal of the particular faces relied upon in this permit application.
re feet
288
l
f
squa
east
at
(c) Each removed sign has a copy and graphic area o
and satisfies two or more of the following additional criteria:
(1) The removed sign is located adjacent to a highway with more than two
regular lanes and with a general speed limit of 45 miles per hour or greater, but that does
not have restrictions on access equivalent to those of an interstate highway;
(2) All or a substantial portion of the structure for the removed sign was
constructed before 1975 and has not been substantially improved;
(3) The removed sign is located in a noncommercial zoning district;
(4) The removed sign is located in a special planning area designated in the
1999 comprehensive plan; or
(5) The removed copy and graphic area is equal to or or greater than the area
of the copy and graphic area for which the enhanced dynamic display permit is sought.
(d) If the removed sign face is one for which a state permit is required by state
law, the applicant must surrendered its permit to the state upon removal of the sign. The
sign that is the subject of the enhanced dynamic display permit cannot begin to operate
until proof is provided to the city that the state permit has been surrendered.
(e) The applicant must agree in writing that no dynamic displays will ever be
used on one additional outdoor advertising sign that has a copy and graphic area of at
least 288 square feet in size. This agreement will be binding on the applicant and all
MinnetonkaSignOrdinance.rtf - 3/5- 23 May 208
MINNETONKA, PAGE 4 OF 5
future owners of the sign. If the sign is subsequently removed or destroyed and not
replaced, the holder of the enhanced dynamic display permit is not required to substitute
a different sign for the one that no longer exists.
2) If the applicant complies with the permit requirements noted above, the city will
issue an enhanced dynamic display permit for the designated outdoor advertising sign.
This permit will allow a dynamic display to occupy 100 percent of the potential copy and
graphic area and to change no more frequently than once every eight seconds. The
designated sign must meet all other requirements of this ordinance.
(Added by Ord. 2007-21, adopted June 25, 2007)
_15. Brightness Standards
a) All signs must meet the following brightness standards in addition to those in
subdivision 10:
1) No sign may be brighter than is necessary for clear and adequate visibility.
2) No sign may be of such intensity or brilliance as to impair the vision of a motor
vehicle driver with average eyesight or to otherwise interfere with the driver's operation
of a motor vehicle.
3) No sign may be of such intensity or brilliance that it interferes with the
effectiveness of an official traffic sign, device or signal.
b) The person owning or controlling the sign must adjust the sign to meet the
brightness standards in accordance with the city's instructions. The adjustment must be
made immediately upon notice of non-compliance from the city. The person owning or
controlling the sign may appeal the city's determination through the following appeal
procedure:
1) After making the adjustment required by the city, the person owning or
controlling the sign may appeal the city's determination by delivering a written appeal to
the city clerk within 10 days after the city's non-compliance notice. The written appeal
must include the name of a person unrelated to the person and business making the
appeal, who will serve on the appeal panel.
2) Within five business days after receiving the appeal, the city must name a person
who is not an official or employee of the city to serve on the appeal panel. Within five
business days after the city names its representative, the city's representative must contact
the sign owner's representative, and the two of them must appoint a third member to the
panel, who has no relationship to either party.
3) The appeal panel may develop its own rules. of procedure, but it must hold a
hearing within five business days after the third member is appointed. The city and the
sign owner must be given the opportunity to present testimony, and the panel may hold
the hearing, or a portion of it, at the sign location. The panel must issue its decision on
what level of brightness is needed to meet the brightness standards within five business
days after the hearing commences. The decision will be binding on both parties.
c) All signs installed after June 25, 2007 that will have illumination by a means other
•
MinnetonkaSignOrdinance.rtf - 4/5- 23 May 208
MINNETONKA, PAGE 5 OF 5
than natural light must be equipped with a mechanism that automatically adjusts the
brightness in response to ambient conditions. These signs must also be equipped with a
means to immediately turn off the display or lighting if it malfunctions, and the sign
owner or operator must immediately turn off the sign or lighting when notified by the city
that it is not complying with the standards in this section.
(Added by Ord. 2007-21, adopted June 25, 2007)
C~
MinnetonkaSignOrdinance.rtf - 5/5- 23 May 2a~8
BLOOMINGTON, Page 1 of 6
City of Bloomington, Minnesota
• Sign Code Excerpts related to Electronic Display Signs
Chapter 19. ZONING
Section 19.104. DEFINITIONS.
Video display sign - A sign that changes its message or background in a manner or
method of display characterized by motion or pictorial imagery, which may or may not
include text and depicts action or a special effect to imitate movement, the presentation of
pictorials or graphics displayed in a progression of frames which give the illusion of
motion, including but not limited to the illusion of moving objects, moving patterns or
bands of light, or expanding or contracting shapes, not including electronic changeable
copy signs. Video display signs include projected images or messages with these
characteristics onto buildings or other objects.
Electronic graphic display sign - a sign or portion thereof that displays electronic, static
images, static graphics or static pictures, with or without information, defined by a small
• number of matrix elements using different combinations of light emitting diodes (LED's),
fiber optics, light bulbs or other illumination devices within the display area where the
message change sequence is accomplished immediately or by means of fade,
repixalization or dissolve modes. Electronic graphic display signs include computer
programmable, microprocessor controlled electronic or digital displays. Electronic
graphic display signs include projected images or messages with these characteristics
onto buildings or other objects.
Video display sign - A sign that changes its message or background in a manner or
method of display characterized by motion or pictorial imagery, which may or may not
include text and depicts action or a special effect to imitate movement, the presentation of
pictorials or graphics displayed in a progression of frames which give the illusion of
motion, including but not limited to the illusion of moving objects, moving patterns or
bands of light, or expanding or contracting shapes, not including electronic changeable
copy signs. Video display signs include projected images or messages with these
characteristics onto buildings or other objects.
•
17
BLOOMINGTON, Page 2 of 6
Section 19.106. SIGNS PROHIBITED IN ALL DISTRICTS. •
(b) Prohibited Signs.
(11) Video Display Signs Prohibited. Video display signs are allowed only as
provided in Section 19.108(h)(5) of this City Code.
(12) Electronic Changeable Copy Signs Prohibited. Electronic changeable copy
signs are allowed only as provided in Section 19.108(h)(4) of this City Code.
(13) Electronic Graphic Display Signs Prohibited. Electronic graphic display signs
are allowed only as provided in Section 19.108(h)(6) of this City Code.
Section 19.108. GENERAL PROVISIONS, INCLUDING BASIC
DESIGN ELEMENTS.
(d) Illumination of Signs.
(1) Interference With Traffic. No lighting shall be permitted to be used in any way •
in connection with a sign unless it is so effectively shielded so as to prevent beams or
rays of light from being directed at any portion of the main-traveled way of the public
roadway or onto any residential property, or is of such low intensity or brilliance as not to
cause glare or to impair the vision of the driver of any motor vehicle, or to otherwise
interfere with any drivers operation of a motor vehicle.
(2) Underground Electrical Service. All illuminated freestanding identification signs
shall have underground electrical service.
(h) Basic Design Elements for Specific Signs.
(4) Electronic Changeable Copy Sign. Electronic changeable copy signs must meet
the following standards. When attached to walls, electronic changeable copy signs are
classified as cabinet signs.
(A) Location. The sign must be located on the site of the use identified or advertised
by the sign;
~s
BLOOMINGTON, Page 3 of 6
(B) District Limitations. The sign must not be located in a Conservation or Bluff
Overlay (BP-1, BP-Z) district;
(C) Setback from residential. The leading edge of the sign in anon-residential zoning
district must be a minimum distance of 100 feet from an abutting residential district
boundary;
(D) Setback from other electronic changeable copy, electronic graphic display or video
display signs. Electronic changeable copy signs must be separated from other electronic
changeable copy signs, electronic graphic display signs or video display signs by at least
35 feet;
(E) Orientation. When located within 150 feet of a residentially-used lot in a
residential zone, all parts of the electronic changeable copy sign must be oriented so that
no portion of the sign face is visible from an existing or permitted principal structure on
that lot;
(F) Duration. In non-residential districts (B-1, B-2, B-3, B-4, C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5,
CR-1, CB, CS-0.5, CS-1, CO-0.5, CO-1, CO-2, CX-2, HX-R, HX-2, I-1, I-2, I-3, IP, FD-
1, FD-2) any portion of the message must have a minimum duration of eight seconds and
must be a static display. In residential districts (R-1, R-lA, RS-1, R-4, RM-12, RM-24,
RM-50, RO-24, RO-50) any portion of the message must have a minimum duration of
one hour and must be a static display. In all districts, no portion of the message may
flash, scroll, twirl, change color, fade in or out or in any manner imitate movement;
(G) Color. In residential districts (R-1, R-lA, RS-1, R-4, RM-12, RM-24, RM-50,
RO-24, RO-50) any portion of the message must use an amber color;
(H) Limited Text. The text of the sign must be limited to ten words to allow passing
motorists to read the entire copy with minimal distraction; and
(I) Audio or pyrotechnics. Audio speakers or any form of pyrotechnics are prohibited
in association with an electronic changeable copy sign.
(5) Video Display Sign. Video display signs must meet the following standards.
When attached to walls, video display signs are classified as cabinet signs.
(A) Location. The sign must be located on the site of the use identified or advertised
by the sign;
(B) District Limitations. The sign must not be located in a Residential (R-1, R-lA,
RS-1, R-4, RM-12, RM-24, RM-50, RO-24, RO-50), Conservation, or Bluff Overlay
(BP-1, BP-2) district;
(C) Setback from residential. The leading edge of the sign must be a minimum
distance of 100 feet from an abutting residential district boundary;
~s
BLOOMINGTON, Page 4 of 6
(D) Setback from other electronic graphic display, electronic changeable copy or video •
display signs. Video display signs must be separated from other electronic graphic
display, electronic changeable copy signs, or video display signs by at least 35 feet;
(E) Orientation. In all districts the video display sign must be oriented so that no
portion of the sign face is visible from an existing or permitted principal structure on any
residential lot; from any traveled highway, street, driveway or internal access way; from
any park; or from a conservation or bluff district;
(F) Brightness. The sign must not exceed a maximum illumination of 5000 nits
(candelas per square meter) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 500
nits (candelas per square meter) between dusk to dawn as measured from the sign's face
at maximum brightness;
(G) Dimmer control. Video display signs must have an automatic dimmer control to
produce a distinct illumination change from a higher illumination level to a lower level
for the time period between one half-hour before sunset and one half-hour after sunrise;
and
(H) Audio or pyrotechnics. Audio speakers or any form of pyrotechnics are prohibited
in association with a video display sign.
(6) Electronic Graphic Display Sign. Electronic graphic display signs must meet the
following standards. When attached to walls, electronic graphic display signs are
classified as cabinet signs.
(A) Location. The sign must be located on the site of the use identified or advertised
by the sign;
(B) District Limitations. The sign must not be located in a Conservation, Bluff
Overlay (BP-1, BP-2) district or Residential district (R-1, R-lA, RS-1, R-4, RM-12, RM-
24, RM-50, RO-24, RO-50);
(C) Setback from residential. The leading edge of the sign must be a minimum
distance of 100 feet from an abutting residential district boundary;
(D) Setback from other electronic graphic display, electronic changeable copy or video
display signs. Electronic graphic display signs must be separated from other electronic
graphic display, electronic changeable copy signs, or video display signs by at least 35
feet;
(E) Orientation. When located within 150 feet of a residentially-used lot in a
residential zone, any part of the electronic graphic display sign must be oriented so that
no portion of the sign face is visible from an existing or permitted principal structure on
that lot.
20
BLOOMINGTON, Page 5 of 6
(F) Duration. In all districts any portion of the image must have a minimum duration
• of 20 minutes and must be a static display. No portion of the image may flash, scroll,
twirl, change color, or in any manner imitate movement;
(G) Brightness. The sign must not exceed a maximum illumination of 5000 nits
(candelas per square meter) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 500
nits (candelas per square meter) between dusk to dawn as measured from the sign's face
at maximum brightness;
(H) Dimmer control. Electronic graphic display signs must have an automatic dimmer
control to produce a distinct illumination change from a higher illumination level to a
lower level for the time period between one half-hour before sunset and one half-hour
after sunrise; and
(I) Audio or pyrotechnics. Audio speakers or any form of pyrotechnics are prohibited
in association with an electronic graphic display sign.
(7) Multi-vision Sign. Multi-vision signs must meet the following standards. When
attached to walls, multi-vision signs are classified as cabinet signs.
(A) Location. The sign must be located on the site of the use identified or advertised
by the sign;
• (B) District Limitations. The sign must not be located in a Conservation, Bluff
Overlay (BP-1, BP-2) district or Residential district (R-1, R-1 A, RS-1, R-4, RM-12, RM-
24, RM-50, RO-24, RO-50);
(C) Setback from residential. The leading edge of the sign must be a minimum
distance of 100 feet from an abutting residential district boundary;
(D) Setback from other multi-vision signs. Multi-vision signs must be separated from
other multi-vision signs by at least 35 feet;
(E) Orientation. When located within 150 feet of a residentially-used lot in a
residential zone, any part of the multi-vision sign must be oriented so that no portion of
the sign face is visible from an existing or permitted principal structure on that lot;
(F) Duration. In all districts any image or message or portion thereof must have a
minimum duration of eight seconds and must be a static display. Transition time must be
no longer than two seconds;
(G) Default mechanism. All multi-vision signs must be equipped with a properly
functioning default mechanism that will stop the sign in one position should a
malfunction occur; and
LJ
21
BLOOMINGTON, Page 6 of 6
(H) Audio or pyrotechnics. Audio speakers or any form of pyrotechnics are prohibited
in association with amulti-vision sign.
(8) Time and Temperature Sign. Time and temperature signs must meet the
following standards. When attached to walls, time and temperature signs are classified as
cabinet signs.
(A) Location. The sign must be located on the site of the use advertised or identified
by the sign;
(B) District Limitations. The sign must not be located in Residential (R-1, R-lA, RS-
1, R-4, RM-12, RM-24, RNI-50, RO-24, RO-50), Conservation or Bluff Overlay (BP-1,
BP-2) district;
(C) Duration. Time and temperature signs must have a minimum display duration of
two seconds that is static during each individual message. No portion of the message
may flash, scroll, twirl, change color, fade in or out or in any manner imitate movement;
and
(D) Audio or pyrotechnics. Audio speakers or any form of pyrotechnics are prohibited
in association with a time and temperature sign.
(9) Rotating Signs.
(A) No sign shall have rotating or moving parts that revolve at a speed in excess of •
seven revolutions per minute.
(Added by Ord. No. 96-40, 8-19-96; Amended by Ord. No. 97-36, 8-18-97; Ord. No. 98-
9, 3-2-98; Ord. No.
2001-11, 3-19-2001; Ord. No. 2006-45, 10-9-2006; Ord. No. 2007-50, 12-17-2007; Ord.
No. 2008-1, 1-14-2008)
•
22
ST PAUL, Page 1 of 2
City of St. Paul Sign Code
Selected Excerpts
Sec. 64.107. E. (Under definitions)
Electric sign. A sign containing electrical wiring, but not including signs illuminated by
an exterior light source.
Electronic message sign. A sign which allows for periodic changes in copy or symbols by
electronic means.
Sec. 64.108. F.
Flashing sign. An illuminated sign on which the illumination is not kept stationary or
constant in intensity or color at all times when the sign is in use. An electronic message
sign is not considered a flashing sign.
Sec. 64.420. Advertising signs
(a) Advertising signs prohibited. No advertising signs are permitted in any zoning district
in the city. The purposes of this prohibition are to enhance views of the natural and built
environments of the city, to improve aesthetically the fusion of residential and
commercial areas, to promote community pride on the part of property owners, to
encourage beautification and investment in the city, to protect property values, and to
reduce cluttered and chaotic signage, which draws attention away from the identification
signs of businesses and institutions located in the city.
(6) For electronic message boards, the modes of display of messages shall conform to the
requirements of section 64.504((a)(5)(c). Flashing modes are not permitted.
Sec. 64.502. RI., through RM3 residential districts.
(a) Identification signs:
(4) For parks, community centers, and religious, civic or philanthropic institutions, one
(1) identification sign, not exceeding a total of thirty (30) square feet in area for each
street frontage, and one (1) bulletin board not exceeding a total of thirty (30) square feet
in area. Such bulletin board signs may have electronically changeable text, but shall not
fade in and out, scroll, or flash.
23
ST PAUL, Page 2 of 2
Sec. 64.504. BC--B3 business and IR industrial districts.
(a) Business signs:
(5) Electronic message signs shall be prohibited from the BC--B2 districts; provided, that
electronic message signs giving public information, such as time, temperature, stock
averages and the like, are permitted in the B2 district. Electronic message signs are
permitted in the districts under the following conditions:
a. The signs shall be six hundred sixty (660) feet from other electronic message
signs on the same side of the same street;
b. The signs shall be at least seventy-five (75) feet, as measured along the road, of
a residential district, and shall be at least fifty (50) feet from a residential district,
measured radially; and
c. The following modes of displaying the message shall be permitted:
1. The fade-in/fade-out mode where the message appears on the sign,
dissolves and another message takes its place;
2. The travel mode where the message moves across the sign from left to
right or right to left; and
3. The travel mode where the message moves from top to bottom or
bottom to top.
Other modes of displaying messages are prohibited. Modes which cause
the message to flash are prohibited.
Sec. 64.505. B4--BS business districts. i
(a) Business signs:
(4) Electronic message signs are permitted and subject to the conditions specified in the
B-2 and B-3 districts, section 64.504(a)(5).
Sec. 64.506. Il--I3 industrial districts.
(a) Business signs:
(5) Electronic message signs are permitted and subject to the conditions specified in the
B-2 and B-3 districts, section 64.504(a)(5)
24