HomeMy WebLinkAboutFINAL ORDINANCE NO. 08-082CITY OF LAKE ELMO
COUNTY OF WASHINGTON
STATE OF MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 08-082
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE LAKE ELMO CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES BY
ADOPTING NEW SIGNAGE REGULATIONS IN THE LAKE ELMO ZONING CODE.
SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of Lake Elmo hereby amends Title XV:
Land Usage; Chapter 151: Building Regulations, by repealing City Code Sections
151.115 through 151.119 in their entirety.
SECTION 2. The City Council of the City of Lake Elmo hereby amends Title I:
General Provisions; Chapter 11: General Code Provisions; Section 01 Definitions by
repealing the following language:
SIGN. Any letter, word or symbol, device, poster, picture, statue, reading matter or representation
in the nature of an advertisement, announcement, message, or visual communication, whether
painted, posted, printed, affixed or constructed, which is displayed for informational or communicative
purposes and is visible to the general public.
SIGN, ABANDONED. Any sign and/or its supporting sign structure which remains without a message
or whose display surface remains blank for a period of 1 year or more, or any sign which pertains to a
time, event or purpose which no longer applies, shall be deemed to have been abandoned. Signs
applicable to a business temporarily suspended because of a change in ownership or management of
such business shall not be deemed abandoned unless the property remains vacant for a period of 1 year
or more. Any sign remaining after demolition of a principal structure shall be deemed to be abandoned.
Signs which are present because of being legally established nonconforming signs or signs which have
required a conditional use permit or a variance shall also be subject to the definition of ABANDONED
SIGN.
SIGN, AGRICULTURAL SALES. A sign placed on a lot or parcel of land advertising an operating and
permissible agricultural sales business. Off-premises AGRICULTURAL SALES SIGNS shall be
administered as temporary signs subject to all removal requirements outlined in code.
SIGN, AWNING. A sign or graphic printed on or in some fashion attached directly to the awing
material.
SIGN, BANNER. A temporary sign typically made of cloth, plastic or vinyl materials.
SIGN, BILLBOARD. A sign structure with a surface area over 100 square feet per surface that
identifies or communicates a commercial or non-commercial message.
SIGN, BUSINESS VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION. A sign that is permanently mounted or otherwise
permanently affixed to a vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer which identifies the business, products, or
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services with which the vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is related. For purposes of this definition,
magnetic and adhesive signs shall be considered as being permanently affixed. This definition shall also
include non-permanently affixed signs that do not exceed 32 square feet erected in concert with a
legally operating wayside stand. Bumper stickers and similarly sized adhesive decals shall not be
considered BUSINESS VEHICLE /DENT/FICA T/ON SIGNS.
SIGN, CANOPY. A sign that is mounted, painted, or otherwise applied on or attached to a
freestanding canopy or structural protective cover over an outdoor service area. An awning or a
marquee is not a canopy.
SIGN, CHANGEABLE COPY. A sign designed to allow the changing of copy through manual,
mechanical, or electrical means including time and temperature.
SIGN, DIRECTIONAL. An on-site sign for the purpose of making specific locations known and to
assist in finding these locations (e.g. "Parking," "Shipping Receiving Area").
SIGN, ELECTRONIC VARIABLE MESSAGE. A dynamic signs whose message are changed at
reasonable intervals by electronic process or remote control and whose movement is the periodic
changing of information against a solid background, engineered for maximum legibility and readability,
and having a constant light level and glare reduced screens. This definition does not include static
time, temperature and price displays which only change when necessary for accuracy.
SIGN, FLAG. Any fabric or similar lightweight material attached at one end of the material, usually
to a staff or pole, so as to allow movement of the material by atmospheric changes and which contains
distinctive colors, patterns, symbols, emblems, insignia, or other symbolic devices.
SIGN, FREESTANDING. A sign that is attached to, erected on, or supported by some structure (such
as a pole, mast, frame, or other structure) that is not itself an integral part of or attached to a building
or other structure whose principal function is something other than the support of a sign. Monument,
pole, and ground signs are all FREESTANDING SIGNS.
SIGN, GOVERNMENTAL. A sign erected and maintained by or on behalf of the United States, the
state, the county, or the city for the purpose of regulating traffic or for other civic purposes; the size,
location, and height of which is dictated by the applicable agency to fulfill the intended civic purpose.
SIGN, GROUND. Any freestanding sign with its sign face mounted on the ground or mounted on a
base at least as wide as the sign and which has a total height not exceeding 6 feet.
SIGN, HISTORIC. An existing sign which has a special historical, architectural, cultural, or aesthetic
value to the community.
SIGN, ILLUMINATED. Any sign which contains an element designed to emanate artificial light
directly or indirectly.
SIGN ILLUMINATION, BACK LIT. A direct source of light which illuminates a sign by shining through
a translucent surface of a sign, including plastic signs, lit from an internal light source.
SIGN ILLUMINATION, DIRECT. A sign whose light source is either located in the interior of the sign
so that the rays go through the face of the sign, or which is attached to the face of the sign and is
perceived as a design element of the sign.
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SIGN ILLUMINATION, EXTERNAL. Illumination of a sign that is affected by an artificial source of
light not contained within the sign itself.
SIGN ILLUMINATION, INDIRECT. A sign whose light source is external to the sign and which casts its
light onto the sign from some distance.
SIGN ILLUMINATION, REVERSE LIT. A direct source of light which illuminates a sign by shining off
an opaque surface of a sign thereby casting the light off the wall behind the sign creating a halo effect.
SIGN, MONUMENT. Any freestanding sign, with its sign face mounted on the ground or mounted on
a base at least as wide as the sign and which has a height exceeding 6 feet.
SIGN, MURAL. Any mural or pictorial scene painted on a wall or building or painted on a sign board
affixed to a wall, and in which mural or scene has as its purpose an artistic effect.
SIGN, OFF-PREMISES. A commercial speech sign which directs the attention of the public to a
business, activity conducted, or product sold or offered at a location not on the same lot where such
sign is located. A sign located within an easement or other appurtenance to a lot on which a business is
located shall be deemed an OFF-PREMISES SIGN.
SIGN, PERMANENT. A sign constructed of durable materials designed to exist for the duration of
time that the use or occupant is located on the premises.
SIGN, POLE. Any freestanding sign which has its supportive structure(s) anchored in the ground and
which has a sign face elevated above ground level by pole(s) or beam(s) and with the area below the
sign face open
SIGN, PORTABLE. A sign not permanently attached to the ground or a building or designed to be
permanently attached to the ground or a building.
SIGN, PROJECTING. A sign attached to and projecting out from a building face or wall, generally at
a right angle.
SIGN, ROOF. Any sign erected and constructed wholly on and above the roof of a building,
supported by the roof structure, and extending vertically above the highest portion of the roof.
SIGN, REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT. A sign offering for sale, lease, or rent a single-family or
multiple-family residential project of 10 or more dwelling units or lots. REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT
SIGNS shall be administered as permanent signs subject to all removal requirements outlined in code.
SIGN, SNIPE. An off-premises sign that is tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued, or otherwise
attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences, or to other object.
SIGN, TEMPORARY. Any sign intended for display over a short period of time.
SIGN, WALL. A sign attached to or erected against the wall of a building with the exposed face of
the sign on a plane parallel to the plane of the wall, and which displays only 1 sign surface.
SIGN, WARNING. A sign located on private property posting such property for warning or
prohibitions on trespassing, hunting, or other activity.
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SIGN, WINDOW. Any building sign, pictures, symbol, or combination thereof, designed to
communicate information about an activity, business, commodity, event, sale, or service, that is
placed inside a window or upon the window panes or glass and is visible from the exterior of the
window.
SECTION 3. The City Council of the City of Lake Elmo hereby amends Title I:
General Provisions; Chapter 11: General Code Provisions; Section 01 Definitions by
adding the following language:
Vision Triangle. The area created by drawing an imaginary line between points 30
feet back from where the curb lines of the intersection quadrant meet.
SECTION 4. The City Council of the City of Lake Elmo hereby amends Title XV:
Land Usage; Chapter 154: Zoning Code, by adding the following language:
Article 5 -General Regulations
§154.212 Sign Regulations
§154.212 Sign Regulations
A. Purpose and Intent. The purpose of this Ordinance is to provide standards to safeguard life,
health, and property and to promote the public welfare by regulating the design, area,
number, construction, location, and installation of all signs referred to hereunder. The City
Council and Planning Commission of the City of Lake Elmo find that the visual environment has
an effect on the welfare of the citizens of Lake Elmo and that careful control of signage can
protect and enhance the community. To carry out this general purpose, the regulations set
forth herein are intended to:
1. Protect the public from hazards that result from signs which are structurally unsafe,
obscure the vision of motorists and/ or compete or conflict with necessary traffic signals
and warning signs.
2. Preserve the land value of private property by assuring the compatibility of signs with
nearby land uses.
3. Foster high quality commercial and industrial development and to enhance economic
development of existing businesses and industries by promoting reasonable, orderly,
attractive and effective sign that meet the need for business identification, advertising and
communication.
4. Encourage creative and well-designed signs that contribute in a positive way to the
community's visual environment, express local character and help develop a distinctive
image in the city. When appropriate, signage is encouraged to utilize design elements that
are consistent with the Lake Elmo Branding and Theming Study.
5. Recognize that signs are a necessary form of communication and provide flexibility within
the sign review and approval process to allow for unique circumstances.
6. Provide applicants with clear and consistent rules and regulations.
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B. 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 indicates a
different meaning:
Abandoned Sign. Any sign remaining in place which for a period of ninety (90) consecutive days
or more no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product, service, idea, or
commercial activity located on the site or has not been properly maintained in accordance with
the requirements of this Ordinance.
Ancillary Sign. A wall sign separate from and subordinate in area to the principal sign,
identifying generic services, goods or departments in the building, such as pharmacy, optical,
auto repair, or garden center, but not including the identification of brand names.
Attention-Attracting Object. Any streamer, pinwheel, pennant, flag, propeller, inflatable sign,
statuary, tethered balloon, bunting, beacon, or other artificial device, figure, shape, color,
sound, light or exhibit, whether live, animated, or still, that is intended to attract attention to
the use or business being conducted on the site. Attention·attracting object does not include
the flag of any governmental entity.
Awning. A roof·like cover consisting of fabric, plastic or structural protective cover that
projects from the wall of a building which generally serves the purpose of shielding a doorway,
entrance, window, or outdoor service area from the elements or to provide decorative
distinction.
Banner. A suspended sign made of a flexible material such as canvas, sailcloth, plastic, paper,
or fabric of any kind, and intended to be displayed on a temporary basis. A decorative banner
is a banner containing no message or logo that is displayed for the purpose of adding color or
interest to the surroundings or to the building to which it is attached. A flag or canopy shall not
be considered a banner.
Beacon. A stationary or revolving light that flashes or projects illumination, single color or
multicolored, in any manner that is intended to attract or divert attention.
Business Opening Sign. A temporary sign displayed prior or in addition to permitted permanent
signs to promote the opening of a new business, a change of name or change of ownership.
Canopy. A detachable, roof·like cover, supported from the ground or deck, floor or walls of a
structure, for protection from the sun or weather.
Changeable Copy Sign. A sign or portion thereof with characters, letters, or illustrations that
can be changed or rearranged manually without altering the face or the surface of the sign and
on which the message changes less than eight times a day and less than once per hour. A sign
on which the only copy that changes is an electronic or mechanical indication of time or
temperature shall not be considered a changeable copy sign.
Commercial Message. A message that directs attention to or acts as advertising for a business,
commodity, product, service or form of entertainment or tends to encourage the occurrence of
a commercial transaction related thereto.
Comprehensive Sign Plan. A complete signage plan for a building or lot that has been approved
by the City.
Construction Sign. A sign identifying individuals or companies involved in design, construction,
wrecking, financing, or development of a building or lot upon which the sign sits and/or
identifying the future use of the building or lot upon which the sign sits.
Copy. Words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic representations
incorporated into a sign.
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Directional Sign, On-Premise. A sign without commercial message erected for the purpose of
indicating the required or preferred direction of vehicular, bicycle, or pedestrian traffic on
private property including, but not limited to "no parking," "entrance," "exit only," "loading
only," and other similar signage.
Directional Sign, Off-Premise. Any sign without commercial message that is displayed for the
purpose of informing people of or guiding people to a particular place for a specified event,
including, but not limited to, an open house, garage sale, estate sale or other similar event.
Directly Illuminated Sign. Any sign designed to give any artificial light directly through any
transparent cir translucent material from a source of light originating within or on such sign.
Directory Sign. A sign which serves as a common or collective identification for a group of
persons or businesses operating on the same lot. Such a sign commonly lists the tenants,
occupants, floor plan, addresses or suite numbers of an office complex, shopping center or
residential building complex.
Election Campaign Period. A period prior to a general election starting on August 1 until 10
days following the general election, or a period prior to a special election starting 13 weeks
prior to the special election until 10 days following the special election.
Electronic Variable Message Sign. A changeable copy sign or portion thereof which can be
electronically changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign, not
including signage or portions thereof displaying time and temperature.
Fa<;ade. Any separate face or surface of a building, including parapet walls, and roof surfaces
or any part of a building which encloses or covers usable space. Where separate facades are
oriented in the same direction, or where the inside angle at the intersection of two surfaces is
greater than one-hundred and thirty-five (135) degrees, they are to be considered as part of a
single fa~ade.
Flag. A device generally made of flexible material, such as cloth, paper, or plastic, and
displayed from a pole, cable or rope. It may or may not include copy.
Frontage. The boundary of a lot that abuts a public street.
Garage Sale Sign. A sign advertising the sale of personal property including estate sales, yard
sales or rummage sales used to dispose of personal household possessions.
Government Sign. Any sign erected by the City of Lake Elmo or any other governmental entity
in the exercise of official government business and authority.
Ground Sign. Any free-standing sign that is supported by structures or supports in or upon the
ground and independent of support from any building. A single sign structure having two
identical or nearly identical faces back to back shall constitute a single sign. For the purposes
of this definition, a ground sign is intended to refer to a primary, permanent, ground-mounted
sign, not a temporary sign or sign that is ancillary to the primary sign, such as a directional sign
or portable sign.
Hanging Sign. A sign that is suspended from the underside of a surface and is supported by such
surface.
Indirectly Illuminated Sign. A sign that is illuminated from a source outside of the actual sign.
Inflatable Sign. A freestanding or moored sign expanded or inflated with air or another gas,
like a balloon, and which may rise and float above the ground.
Legal Non-Conforming Sign. Any sign which was lawfully erected and displayed on [City Clerk to
insert effective date], but which does not conform to the requirements and limitations herein,
or any sign which was lawfully erected and displayed on the effective date of any amendment
to this Section, but which does not conform to such amendment.
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Logo. A symbol or trademark commonly used to identify a business or organization.
Memorial Sign. A sign or tablet memorializing a person, event, place or structure.
Menu Sign. A permanent changeable copy sign associated with restaurants with drive-through
windows, car washes, or other businesses with drive-up services which gives a detailed list of
food or services available.
Monument Sign. A ground sign having a monolithic base or support structure of any material
measuring no less than one-third (1 /3) of the greatest width of the sign at any point.
Noncommercial Message. A message intended to direct attention to a political, social,
community or public service issue or an idea, aim viewpoint, aspiration or purpose and not
intended to produce any commercial benefit or tend to encourage a commercial transaction.
Off-Premise Sign. A sign which displays any message directing attention to a business, product,
service, profession, commodity, activity, event, person, institution or any other commercial
message, which is generally conducted, sold, manufactured, produced, offered or occurs
elsewhere than on the lot where such sign is located.
On-Premise Sign. A sign which displays any message directing attention to a business, product,
service, profession, commodity, activity, event, person, institution or any other commercial
message, which is generally conducted, sold, manufactured, produced, offered or occurs on
the same lot as the sign.
Pennant. A tapered or dove-tailed banner or flag.
Permanent. When used in reference to a sign, means that the sign is constructed of durable
materials and intended to exist for an indefinite period of time or the duration of the time that
the use or occupant is located on the premises and is generally, but not necessarily, affixed to
the ground or structure. Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the term "permanent"
in this Ordinance is not intended to mean literal permanence, but rather it is meant to
distinguish such signs from more transient or temporary signage.
Pole Sign. A ground sign mounted upon a pole or pylon, or multiple poles or pylons, not
meeting the definition of monument sign.
Portable Sign. A type of temporary sign that is not permanently attached to the ground or a
building or not designed to be permanently attached to the ground or a building, including but
not limited to, trailers or other vehicles that are used principally as a sign, posters, "sandwich
boards" or other freestanding signboards, regardless of whether such signs are attached to the
ground or to a building or structure.
Projecting Sign. A sign that is attached to the wall of a building and projects more than fifteen
(15) inches beyond such wall.
Real Estate Sign. A sign advertising only the sale, rental or lease of the premises upon which
the sign is located.
Sign. Any display of lettering, logos, colors, lights, or illuminated neon tubes visible to the
public from outside of a building or from a traveled way, that either conveys a message to the
public, or intends to advertise, direct, invite, announce or draw attention to any event, goods,
products, services, facilities, persons, property interest or business.
Street Frontage. The distance for which a lot boundary adjoins a single public street.
Temporary Sign. Any sign that is not a permanent sign.
Wall Sign. A sign that is attached to a wall of a building and is affixed parallel to the wall at a
distance of not more than fifteen (15) inches from the surface of the wall.
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Window Sign. Any sign located completely within an enclosed building and visible from a public
way or placed upon a window. Merchandise within the premises and visible from the exterior
shall not be considered a window sign under this definition.
C. Applicability. The Sign Ordinance shall apply to any sign placed, erected, altered, maintained
or relocated within the city that is plainly visible, although not necessarily legible, from any
public right-of-way or any lot in ownership separate from the lot upon which the sign is
located.
D. Sign Permits and Fees
1. Permit Required. Except as provided in this Section, it shall be unlawful for any person to
place, erect, alter or relocate within the city, any sign without first obtaining a permit
from the Planning Director and making payment of all fees as required by the City's Fee
Schedule. This subsection shall not be interpreted to require a permit for a change of copy
on a changeable copy sign, changing occupant sign panels on a directory sign, repainting,
cleaning, or other normal maintenance and repair of any existing sign or its structure as
long as the sign copy does not change.
2. Application for Sign Permit. All applications for sign permits shall be filed on a form
supplied by the City. Such application shalt be submitted with all required information
provided and shall contain or have attached thereto the following information:
a. Date of Application.
b. Name, address, telephone number, and, if available, fax and email address, of the
Applicant as well as of the person, firm, corporation, or association erecting the sign.
c. The written consent of the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is to be
erected, or the sworn statement of the applicant that the applicant is authorized by
the owner, lessee or other authorized occupant of the premises to erect the proposed
sign.
d. A scale drawing showing the existing and proposed location and dimensions of all
buildings, structures, and signs on the subject property. For a ground sign, the drawing
shall also indicate the following:
i. Distance of the sign from either the face of curb or sidewalk as well as its location
relative to other ground signs, driveways, fire hydrants, and any other features of a
site that could be obscured by the sign.
ii. A landscaping plan around the base of all ground signs.
e. The configuration of the proposed sign listing the height, width, total square footage,
proposed copy, method of construction and attachment, method of illumination and
description of all electrical equipment, sign materials and colors, and at least one
image showing the location of the proposed sign and its relationship to either the
building to which it is to be mounted or the surrounding lot if it is a ground sign.
f. The total area and number of all signs by type on the subject property both before and
after the installation of the proposed sign.
g. For temporary signs, applications must be accompanied by a signed, written statement
acknowledging the ordinance requirements governing the duration of time during which
the sign may be displayed.
h. Such other information as the City may require to ensure compliance with this Sign
Ordinance and any other applicable laws.
3. Application Process and Review Procedure. It shall be the duty of the Planning Director,
upon the filing of an application for a sign permit, to examine the application for
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compliance with the requirements of this Section and, if deemed necessary by the Planning
Director, to inspect the premises upon which the proposed sign is to be erected. If the
application is complete and the proposed sign is in compliance with all the requirements of
this Ordinance, and any other applicable laws, the following actions shall be taken:
a. If the application is for a permanent sign that conforms to an approved Comprehensive
Sign Plan that applies to the property upon which it is to be located, or for a
permanent or temporary sign that adheres to the requirements of this Code, the
Planning Director may issue a permit.
b. If an application for approval of a Comprehensive Sign Plan pursuant to §154.212. I is
submitted with a development application subject to Planning Commission review and
City Council approval, the Planning Director shall review the application and make a
recommendation to the Planning Commission prior to issuing a permit.
c. Except for applications for approval of a Comprehensive Sign Plan, applications shall be
approved or denied within thirty (30) days of the filing of a complete application or be
deemed approved unless an extension of time for review is granted, in writing by the
applicant. Any decision of the Planning Director may be appealed to the Board of
Adjustment and Appeals.
d. In the event that a permit is issued but the sign authorized by the permit is not placed,
erected, altered or relocated within six (6) months after the issuance of the permit,
the permit shall expire and be null and void.
e. Fees. A fee shall be charged for the permit in the amount set forth in the City's Fee
Schedule.
E. Design Review Criteria. Signs shall meet the following criteria:
1. Any signage affixed to a building shall be dimensioned and located in such a manner that it
fits the building's architectural features and proportions.
2. All signs shall be designed to fit the zoning and character of the surrounding area. Special
consideration should be made where proposed signage is located on or adjacent to locally
identified historic structures or publicly owned recreation and conservancy areas. Signage
in Planned Unit Development, or in developments seeking Comprehensive Sign Plans, shall
conform to the planned or existing dominant architectural theme of the area. Signage in or
abutting residential properties should be designed and located so as not to create a
nuisance.
3. Signs illuminated by lights shall be positioned in such a manner that none of the light spills
over onto an adjoining property or glares or shines into the eyes of motorists or
pedestrians. All signs must conform to the Sign Illumination standards in §154.212.F.7 and
§150.035 (Lighting, Glare Control and Exterior Lighting Standards).
4. Landscape features shall be incorporated around the base of all permanent ground signs.
Landscape plantings or other landscape materials shall not be considered as part of the
allowable signage.
F. General Sign Regulations. This section pertains to all signs erected in the city of Lake Elmo.
Additional regulations may apply based on sign type and zoning district in which the sign is to
be displayed. Wherever regulations conflict anywhere within this Section or with any other
applicable rule or regulation, unless expressly stated otherwise, the more restrictive provision
shall control.
1. Surface Area Calculation. The sign surface area shall be calculated based on the area
within the smallest single continuous rectilinear perimeter of not more than eight (8)
straight lines encompassing all elements of the actual sign face including any writing,
representation, emblems or any figure or similar character together with any material
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forming an integral part of the display or forming the backing surface or background on
which the message or symbols are displayed, but excluding any support structure. For a
sign painted on or applied to a building, the area shall be considered to include all
lettering, wording and accompanying design or symbols, together with any background of a
different color than the natural color, or finish material of the building. Area of signs
displaying copy on two parallel, back-to-back faces not separated by more than twelve (12)
inches shall be calculated with reference to a single face only.
2. Sign Location, Placement and Setback Requirements. Except as provided elsewhere in this
Section, all signs shall be subject to the following requirements:
a. Limitations Based on Building Setbacks:
i. Except as provided in subparagraph (b ), no part of any permanent or temporary
sign shall extend over a property line.
ii. Where buildings are lawfully permitted to exist on the property line, a permanent
sign attached to a building may project not more than six (6) feet over the abutting
public sidewalk or right of way provided that the bottom of the sign components
are located no less than eight (8) feet above the ground immediately beneath such
sign. No sign may project over adjacent private property. Any ground sign shall be
located on the premises unless it is an authorized temporary sign for which a valid
permit is in effect.
b. Signs on Public Property. No sign shall be located within or across any public right-of-
way, or on any public property, easement, or utility pole, except for:
i. A sign erected by, or required by, a government agency or temporarily erected to
protect the health and safety of the general public; or
ii. A sign erected in conformity with subparagraph (a.ii) of this subsection.
c. Safety of Motorists and Non-motorists
i. No sign shall be erected or maintained at any location where by reason of its
position, wording, illumination, size, shape, or color it may obstruct, impair,
obscure the vision of road users, or otherwise obstruct, interfere with the view of,
or be confused with, any authorized traffic control sign, signal or device.
ii. No ground sign, with the exception of government signs, may be placed within 1 O
feet of a fire hydrant, within 15 feet of a crosswalk, or within 15 feet of the
intersection of any circulation lane, driveway or alley.
iii. No sign exceeding a height of thirty (30) inches may be placed within the vision
triangle as defined in §11.01.
iv. No sign or structural components shall obstruct passage on a sidewalk or walkway.
d. Additional Regulations Pertaining to Placement of All Signs. Except for a sign erected
by, or required by, a government agency or temporarily erected to protect the health
and safety of the general public:
i. No sign shall be attached to a fence, tree, shrubbery, utility pole or like items on
either public or private property, and no sign shall obstruct or obscure primary
signs on adjacent premises.
ii. No sign shall extend beyond the perimeter of a permanent structure or obstruct
any window, door, fire escape, ventilation shaft or other area that is required to
remain unobstructed by an applicable building code.
iii. No sign shall be mounted upon any roof of any building or structure.
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e. Americans with Disabilities Compliance. Sign placement shall meet all Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
3. Construction and Structural Requirements. Every sign and its framework, braces, anchors
and other supports shall be constructed of such material and with such workmanship as to
be safe. Every sign shall be designed and constructed in conformity with the applicable
provisions of the Minnesota State Building Code and shall be free of any exposed extra
bracing, angle iron, guy-wire or cables. The base or support of all permanent ground signs
shall be securely anchored to an appropriately designed concrete base or footing per the
State Building Code.
4. Load Requirements. All signs and other advertising structures shall be designed and
constructed to meet all load requirements according to all applicable regulations in the
Minnesota State Building Code.
5. Installation. All signs shall be properly secured, supported and braced. No sign or any part
thereof, or anchor, brace, or guy-wire shall be attached, fastened or anchored to any fire
escape, fire ladder or standpipe, and no sign or any part thereof, or anchor, brace or guy-
wire shall be erected or maintained which may cover or obstruct any door, doorway, or
window of any building or which may hinder or prevent ingress or egress through such door,
doorway or window, or which may hinder or prevent the raising or placing of ladders
against such building in the event of fire. All signs or attention-attracting devices shall be
free of projections that could cause injury to a pedestrian and shall be installed in such a
manner to avoid obstruction of a public sidewalk or street or portion thereof.
6. Maintenance. All signs, including nonconforming signs, and sign structures shall be
maintained to preserve the appearance and structural integrity substantially identical to
the new condition of the sign.
7. Sign J{{umination. All illuminated signs shall comply with Section 150.035 (Lighting, Glare
Control and Exterior Lighting Standards) and the following requirements:
a. Electrical Permit. All signs in which electrical wiring and connections to be used shall
comply with all applicable provisions of the State Electrical Code. No permit for the
erection of a sign shall be granted prior to approval and issuance of a valid electrical
permit for that sign.
b. Voltage Displayed. The voltage of any electrical apparatus used in conjunction with a
sign shall be conspicuously noted on that apparatus. In addition, all electrical signs
shall bear the label of approval of a recognized testing laboratory and be equipped
with a watertight safety switch that is located where the electrical supply enters the
sign.
c. External Illumination. All external lighting fixtures shall be steady, stationary, fully-
shielded and directed solely onto the sign, and shall use lighting designed to minimize
light spill and glare. Lighting sources shall not be directly visible or cause glare to
adjacent public rights-of-way or adjacent private property.
d. Internal Illumination. Internally illuminated signs shall permit light to shine fully
through only the lettering and graphic elements of the sign. The background for such
lettering and graphics shall be opaque or translucent and shall transmit light at a level
substantially less than that transmitted through the lettering and graphics. If the
contrast between the lettering or graphic elements and background does not permit
adequate legibility, a translucent white border of up to one (1) inch in width may be
placed around said lettering or graphic elements.
e. Brightness Limitation. Except for daytime displays on electronic variable message
signs, in no instance shall the lighting intensity of any illuminated sign exceed:
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i. Three (3) foot candles at the front lot line and one (1) foot candle at all other lot
lines, measured three (3) feet above the surface of the ground.
ii. Fifty (50) foot candles measured perpendicular to the face of the sign from a
distance equal to the narrowest dimension of the sign.
f. Glare. All artificial illumination shall be so designed, located, shielded and directed so
as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon adjacent public right-of-way or
surrounding property.
g. Gooseneck and similar reflectors and lights shall be permitted on ground and wall signs
provided, however, the reflectors and lights shall concentrate the illumination upon
the area of the sign so as to prevent glare upon the street or adjacent property. It shall
be unlawful to maintain any sign which is wholly or partially illuminated by floodlights
or spotlights, unless such lights are completely concealed from view from the public
right-of-way.
8. Motion as a Component of a Sign. No sign shall have any flashing, scintillating, moving or
blinking lights or rotating beacons, whether operated by electronic or mechanical means or
wind driven, nor shall any floodlight, spotlight, or beacon utilize such actions to illuminate
a sign. In addition, no beam of light shall be projected through a mechanism which
periodically changes the color of the light reaching the sign.
9. Attention-Attracting Objects. The use of any attention-attracting object, as defined in this
code, shall be allowed only as a temporary sign in conjunction with a special event permit,
not to exceed ten (10) days per issuance. No permit shall be granted for any premises more
than four (4) times in any calendar year; or more than once in any three month period.
10. Lots Having Multiple Street Frontages. Businesses occupying corner lots, or multiple
frontages adjacent to more than one public right-of-way, may display up to one additional
ground or building-mounted sign for each additional frontage provided that such additional
sign may not exceed 50% of the area allowed by the primary frontage and is oriented
toward the additional frontage. For purposes of this code, the primary frontage shall be
presumed to be the frontage upon which the main entrance to the building is located. The
applicant, however, may identify a different frontage as the primary frontage to maximize
the effectiveness of the signage.
11. Resemblance to Traffic Signs. No sign shall contain or resemble any sign resembling in size,
shape, message, or color any traffic control devices compliant with the Minnesota State
Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
G. Limitations According to the Type of Land Use. Unless exempt under §154.212.K or as expressly
provided elsewhere, no permanent or temporary signs shall be displayed except in conformity
with the following regulations as they correspond to the type of land use and districts in which
the sign is to be displayed.
1. Residential Uses in Residential Districts.
a. In connection with legal home occupations, a single sign which is limited in content to
the name, address and legal home occupation of the owner or occupant of the
premises, and which does not exceed two (2) square feet in area. Signs under this
paragraph shall be wall signs only.
b. A residential condominium or multi-family apartment complex may display signs
identifying the name of the condominium or apartment complex if the total acreage of
the lot is one (1) acre or more and the condominium or apartment includes eight (8) or
more units. One (1) wall sign and one (1) ground sign per street frontage may be
displayed, with a maximum of two (2) wall signs and two (2) ground signs per lot. No
identification sign shalt exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area, and the maximum
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height is one (1) story or twelve (12) feet above curb level, whichever is lower. For
purposes of this paragraph, the term "lot," when used in reference to a condominium
means all property within a common interest community.
c. A subdivision identification sign not exceeding thirty·two (32) square feet in sign area
as approved by the City.
2. Institutional Uses in Residential Districts. Nonresidential uses located in residential
districts, such as churches and schools, located in residential districts may erect signs as
follows:
3.
a. Wall and Ground Signs
b.
i. Area and Number: One (1) wall sign and one (1) ground sign per street frontage
may be displayed, identifying the entity, with a maximum of two (2) wall signs and
two (2) ground signs per lot. Additional wall or ground signs for wayfinding
purposes may be permitted when the size of the lot, number of vehicular or
pedestrian entrances, and layout of the buildings require additional signs in order
to promote traffic and pedestrian safety. Signs under this paragraph, whether
displayed on a wall or on the ground, shall not exceed twelve (12) square feet in
area, except such signs may be increased in area by one (1) square foot for each
additional foot that the sign is set back more than twelve (12) feet from a lot line.
No sign under this section shall exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
ii. Height. No identification sign shall project higher than one story, or twelve (12)
feet above curb level, whichever is lower.
Temporary Signs
Commercial, Mixed-Use and Industrial Districts
a. Ground Signs
b. Directory Signs
c. Awning and Canopy Signs
d. Wall Signs
e. Projecting Signs
f. Hanging Signs
g. Window Signs
h. Directional and Informational Signs
i. Corporate Flags and Decorative Banners
j. Temporary Signs
4. Planned Development Districts. No permanent sign shall be displayed except a sign
authorized by the City and included in the Comprehensive Sign Plan pertaining to the site.
Temporary signs are permitted for commercial, institutional or industrial uses unless
prohibited by the Comprehensive Sign Plan.
5. Conservancies and Parks. No sign shall be permitted except those installed by direction of
the Public Works Director.
6. Agricultural Sales Businesses. Signage related to agricultural sales business may be erected
as follows:
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a. On-Premises Signs, Agricultural Sales Businesses. One (1) or more on-premises signs
may be erected on a property in conjunction with an operating agricultural sales
business subject to the following requirements and restrictions:
i. Agricultural sales businesses utilizing less than 10 acres of land specifically for the
growing of agricultural crops for the business are allowed 1 on-premises sign not to
exceed thirty-two (32) gross square feet of advertising surface.
ii. Agricultural sales businesses utilizing more than 10 acres of land but less than 40
acres of land specifically for the growing of agricultural crops for the business are
allowed up to two (2) on-premises signs not to exceed forty-eight (48) gross square
feet of total advertising surface, with no individual sign surface exceeding thirty-
two (32) square feet in size.
iii. Agricultural sales businesses utilizing more than 40 acres of land specifically for the
growing of agricultural crops for the business are allowed up to three (3) on-
premises signs not to exceed sixty-four (64) gross square feet of total advertising
surface, with no individual sign surface exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in
size.
iv. Any illuminated sign shall be consistent with §154.212.F.7 and illuminated only
during those hours when business is open to the public for conducting business.
b. Temporary Off-Premises Signs, Agricultural Sales Businesses. Independent of the total
allowable sign area for an individual property anywhere within the city, a temporary
off-premises sign may be erected on a property in conjunction with an operating
agricultural sales business subject to the following requirements and restrictions:
i. Maximum Number. Every agricultural sales business shall have no more than three
(3) off-premises signs at any given time to direct the public to the location of the
business.
ii. Time Frame of Use. Temporary off-premises signs may be erected for 45-day time
periods no more than 4 times in any given calendar year. The required temporary
sign permit shall stipulate the range of dates for each of the 4 allowable time
periods in any given calendar year.
iii. Size and Height. An off-site agricultural sales advertising sign shall not exceed 50
square feet in area and shall not be taller than 10 feet in height.
iv. Setbacks. Off-premises signs shall be a minimum of 25 feet from all side property
lines, and a minimum of 50 feet from other off-premises advertising signs.
v. Permission Required. Applicants for off-premises signs shall acquire permission
from the property owner upon whose land the sign is to be erected.
H. Regulations Pertaining to Specific Sign Type. Except as expressly provided elsewhere, signs
shall meet the following regulations according to sign type:
1. Wall Signs
a. Number. No building occupant shall display more than one (1) wall sign per street
frontage except as provided below:
i. One additional wall sign may be displayed on a building with no front setback
provided that such sign is a flat sign that is either painted upon the building or does
not extend outward more than six (6) inches.
ii. Up to three (3) ancillary wall signs may be displayed on buildings measuring at least
100 feet in length along the front lot line. Any ancillary sign displayed under this
paragraph shall not exceed 50% of the net area or 50% of the height of the largest
14
permitted wall sign displayed on that fa~ade, nor shall the aggregate area of the
ancillary signs exceed 50% of the net area of such wall sign.
b. Surface Area. The total permitted sign surface area of all wall signs on a fa~ade shall
not exceed one (1) square foot of signage for each lineal foot of building frontage that
is coterminous with the occupancy to which the sign refers, unless a different amount
allocated to the building occupant is identified in an approved Comprehensive Sign Plan
pursuant to §154.212.1. In addition, no individual wall sign shall exceed one hundred
(100) square feet in area.
c. Location. Wall signs shall be mounted parallel to building walls and only on a portion of
an exterior wall that is coterminous with the occupancy to which the sign refers, unless
a different location is identified in an approved Comprehensive Sign Plan pursuant to
§154.212.1. No wall sign shall extend above or beyond the wall to which it is attached.
d. Installation Requirements. No wall sign shall cover or interrupt significant architectural
elements such as columns, column caps, friezes, door or window heads,
embellishments, adornments, fenestration, or ornamental detailing on any building. All
mounting brackets and other hardware used to affix a sign to a wall as well as all
electrical service hardware and equipment shall be concealed by architectural
elements of the building or the sign itself.
2. Ground Signs
a. Number. There shall be no more than one (1) ground sign for each street on which the
lot has frontage, except one additional ground sign per lot frontage may be allowed for
any lot frontage over one thousand (1,000) linear feet. On lots occupied by two (2) or
more occupants, or where a second ground sign is permitted, three (3) or more
occupants, a directory sign shall be used in lieu of multiple ground signs. No single
business or building occupant shall be allowed signage on both an individual ground sign
and a ground directory sign on the same street frontage. On premises having no
principal building, there shall be no more than one (1) ground sign for the premises.
b. Surface Area. No ground sign shall exceed the size listed in Table 5-3.
c. Type of Sign. Any permanent ground sign shall be erected as a monument sign. Pole
signs are prohibited unless the pole portion of the sign is enclosed in a shroud that
causes the sign to appear to have a monolithic base or support structure of any
material measuring no less than one-third (1 /3) of the greatest width of the sign at any
point or unless the height is no greater than three (3) feet. The base of the monument
sign shall not exceed the width of the widest portion of the sign face by more than
twenty-five percent (25%).
d. Location. Ground signs shall be placed with consideration for visibility, access,
maintenance, and safety, consistent with the provisions of Section 154.212.F.2.
Grounds signs shall be located beyond required setbacks a distance equal to or greater
than the height of the sign. If this is not possible, ground signs shall be located as far
from required setback tines as possible. In no case shall a ground sign, as defined in
this Ordinance, extend beyond a lot line of a property. A ground sign larger than 6 sq.
ft. shall be located no closer than 100 feet of another ground sign or the furthest
distance possible from another ground sign, whichever distance is shorter.
e. Height
i. The height of a ground sign shall be measured from the approved grade at the base
of the sign or the elevation of the street upon which the sign faces, whichever is
lower, to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.
ii. A ground sign shall be mounted on a base not to exceed four (4) feet in height.
15
iii. Allowable height of a ground sign shall be as set forth in Table 5-3.
iv. No ground sign shall be taller than the principal building on the premises to which
it pertains.
f. Landscaping. Perennial plantings, grass or other landscaping features shall be
incorporated around the base of all ground signs.
g. Exempt or Special Purpose Ground Signs. The location of and maximum height and
surface area of any other exempt or special-purpose ground sign expressly authorized
by another section of this ordinance, shall be as set forth in such other section.
Table 5-3 Ground Signs
Table 5-3 describes the zoning districts in which ground signs may be displayed, and the
maximum height and area of the signs, as determined by the speed limit on the adjacent
roadway. For ground signs on zoning lots with more than one street frontage, use the miles per
hour on the street with the faster speed limit to determine the maximum height and area
allowed.
Ground Signs
A", LOR, OP,
RE, RS, RR', BP, C, CC, GB,
Zoning District RT' MOR, HOR LC, VMX
No. of
Total Speed
Traffic Limit Max Height/ Max Height/ Max Height/
Lanes (MPH) Area (Sq. Ft.) Area (Sq. Ft.) Area (Sq. Ft.)
1-3 0-34 -6' /32 10'/32
35-44 -6' /32 1 O' /50
45+ -6' /32 10' 172
4-5 0-34 6' /32 10' 140
35-44 -6' /32 10'/64
45+ -6' /32 12' /80
Notes to Table 5-3:
a. Ground signs are only permitted in the A, RR and RT districts in conjunction with agricultural
sales business.
3. Window Signs
a. Location: All window signs must be located inside an exterior window unless the sign is
weatherproof and does not pose a danger from falling or being blown by the wind.
Lettering or graphic elements that are directly mounted on a window shall not
encroach upon the frame, mullions, or other supporting features of the glass.
b. Permanent Signs. When a sign is painted on or otherwise attached or applied to the
window area in a permanent manner, then such sign shall be included in the total
allowable wall sign area for the building and shall not exceed twenty (20) percent of
16
the total ground-floor window area of the building, excluding the door windows. All
permanent window signs which have their lettering or graphic elements directly on the
glazing shall be painted, metal leafed, vinyl transferred, or in some other manner
permanently applied to the interior side of the glass of an exterior building window or
door. No application using a temporary adhesive shall be permitted unless the Planning
Director determines the application to be reasonably safe.
c. Temporary Signs. Signs advertising sales and specials shall not exceed thirty (30)
percent of the total ground-floor window area of any building, excluding the door
windows. Such signs must be displayed in conformance with the temporary sign
regulations listed in §154.212.J.
d. Under no circumstances shall any combination of permanent or temporary window
signage cover more than fifty percent (50%) of the total ground window area of any
building.
4. Changeable Copy Signs
a. Changeable copy signs are not an additional permitted sign type, but any permitted
sign type may be a changeable copy sign, provided that the total surface area of the
entire sign does not exceed the maximum allowed for the type and location of sign
upon which the changeable copy is displayed.
b. Electronic Variable Message Signs: Any sign type may be an electronic variable message
sign subject to the following regulations:
i. Surface Area. The areas of electronic variable message signs capable of displaying
copy shall not exceed forty (40) square feet and shall be included within the
maximum aggregate sign surface area allowed for the type and location of sign
upon which the changeable copy is displayed.
ii. Length of Cycle. The electronic changeable copy or images shall not alternate,
change, fade in, fade out, or otherwise change more frequently than once every
ten (10) seconds. Electronic variable message sign signs may not display scrolling,
racing, pixelating or moving characters or images, or similar actions that convey
motion.
iii. Color. All copy, characters or other changeable images shall be of one (1) color
only, with light copy on a dark background.
iv. Brightness Adjustment. An electronic variable message sign shall be equipped with
photosensitive equipment which automatically adjusts the brightness and contrast
of the sign in direct relation to the ambient outdoor illumination such that the light
level does not exceed three (3) foot candles at the front lot line and one (1) foot
candle at all other lot lines, measured three (3) feet above the surface of the
ground.
v. Maintenance. Any electronic variable message sign shall be maintained so as to be
able to display messages in a complete and legible manner.
5. Canopy and Awning Signs. The use of canopy and awning signs reduces the maximum area
of any allowed wall sign by half. Canopy and awning signs are subject to the following
provisions:
a. Surface Area. The sign surface area of a canopy or awning sign shall not exceed fifteen
(15) percent of the area of the vertical section of the canopies and awnings. The area
of the vertical section of the canopies and awnings is calculated as the difference
between the highest and lowest point on the canopy or awning multiplied by the length
of the canopy or awning measured parallel to the fa~ade upon which it is attached.
17
b. Location
i. Canopies and awnings shall be constructed and erected so that the lowest portion
of the projecting frame thereof shall be not less than nine (9) feet, and the lowest
portion of the descending skirt shall be not less than eight (8) feet above the level
of the sidewalk or public thoroughfare.
ii. No portion of the canopy or awning sign shall extend above or beyond the canopy
or awning upon which it is attached. However, a sign may be hung beneath a
canopy parallel to the building frontage so long as it and its structural components
are no less than eight (8) feet above the ground immediately beneath the sign.
iii. Awnings shall not project more than seventy·two (72) inches out from the building
upon which they are attached, nor extend out from the building beyond the
extension of the awnings on adjoining buildings.
c. Installation Requirements. To preserve the architectural integrity of a building, no
canopy or awning, and no canopy or awning sign, shall cover or interrupt significant
architectural elements such as columns, column caps, friezes, door or window heads,
embellishments, adornments, fenestrations or ornamental detailing.
d. Illumination. Awnings and canopies may be illuminated where the following conditions
are maintained:
i. Both interior type strip lighting and exterior type goose neck lighting is permitted,
not exceeding a maximum light level of 18 foot candles measured three (3) feet
from the perpendicular to the light source.
ii. The bottom of any illuminated awning or canopy shall be enclosed.
iii. The provisions of §154.212.F.7 are satisfied.
e. Materials. Canopy and awning signs shall be made of either the material with which the
canopy or awning is covered or other water proof materials affixed flush to the face of
the canopy or awning, or be painted directly on the awning or canopy material with
weather·resistant paint.
f. Snow Load. It is found that snow and ice that accumulates on awnings can pose a
danger to pedestrians. To ensure the safety of pedestrians, snow and ice shall be
removed from awnings within a reasonable time period after an event of snow and ice
accumulation.
6. Hanging Signs. One sign up to six (6) square feet in area may be suspended above a
walkway near a primary building entrance so long as it and its structural components are no
less than eight (8) feet above the ground immediately beneath the sign.
7. Projecting Signs. A projecting sign may be displayed in lieu of a wall sign and subject to the
following restrictions:
a. Maximum Projection. The maximum distance a projecting sign may project is not more
than twenty·four inches (24") into the right·of·way. Subject to zoning setback
limitations, a projecting sign may project no more than six feet (6') from the building
face.
b. Location. A building may have one (1) projecting sign facing a street or on a corner of
the building.
c. Surface Area. The permitted area of a projecting sign shall not exceed the square
footage for the amount that would otherwise be allowed for a wall sign on the building.
d. Height. A projecting sign must vertically dear any pedestrian area by at least eight (8)
feet and vehicular ways by at least fourteen (14) feet. A projecting sign may extend to
18
the juncture of the roof with the building wall or to the top of any parapet, but no
projecting sign may extend above a second story.
8. Directional Signs. On-premise directional signs may be placed on private property near
driveway entrances, at building entrances, and in parking lots and loading areas where
reasonably necessary. Each such sign shall be located on-premise and shall adhere to the
regulations pertaining to vision triangles and other setbacks as defined in §154.212.F.2.
Such signage shall be considered exempt from the total signage calculation for the
premises as long as all the following standards are met:
a. Such signage does not serve an additional advertising purpose.
b. There are no more than three (3) directional signs per lot, not including a maximum of
one (1) directional sign allowed per driveway entrance/ exit.
c. Surface area per sign does not exceed four (4) square feet.
d. Logos do not exceed two (2) square feet in area per sign.
e. Sign height does not exceed five (5) feet above ground elevation at base of sign.
9. Flags and Decorative Banners. The following regulations apply to all flags and decorative
banners:
a. A minimum clearance of eight feet (8') over pedestrian ways and fourteen (14') feet
over vehicular areas.
b. Maximum number of flagpoles for any lot is three (3).
c. Maximum height of any flagpole is fifty (50) feet.
d. Maximum number of flags per lot is four (4).
e. Maximum area of any flag shall be forty (40) square feet.
f. Flags representing a private entity, including corporate or business flags, shall be
included within the maximum sign area total for the site, as applied to the allowance
for a ground sign, and shall require a sign permit.
I. Comprehensive Sign Plans
1. Purpose. Multi-tenant developments such as shopping malls, due to the varying occupant's
need for signage and the potential for unique architecture and placement of different
occupancies as they relate to street frontages, can create challenges to the applicability of
sign regulations and the fair distribution of permitted square footage for occupants. This
section is intended to define how signage permitted under this code will be distributed
among the different occupancies available in the development. The Comprehensive Sign
Plan shall create visual harmony between the signs, building(s), and building site through
unique and exceptional use of materials, design, color, and lighting, and other design
elements; and shall result in signs of appropriate scale and character to the uses and
building(s) on the lot as well as adjacent buildings, structures and uses.
2. Applicability. A Comprehensive Sign Plan shall be required of an applicant for all planned
developments and commercial or industrial multi-tenant developments where different
occupancies will compete for permitted square footage on a single lot.
3. Submission Requirements. An application for Comprehensive Sign Plan approval shall be
submitted to the Planning Director and shall include:
a. A site plan, dimensioned, showing the location of the building(s), structure(s), parking
area(s), driveway(s), and landscaped areas on the lot upon which the proposed sign is
to be attached or erected.
19
b. A table or tables containing:
i. Computation of the maximum total sign area.
ii. Maximum area for individual signs.
iii. Height and number of ground signs.
iv. Statement of the maximum total sign area and maximum number of signs
permitted on the site by this Ordinance.
c. An accurate indication on the site plan of the location and orientation of each sign for
which a permit is currently being requested, the anticipated location of future signs
requiring a permit, and the location of all reasonably anticipated temporary signs.
d. A description and illustration of the following may be required:
i. Colors and materials to be used in sign construction.
ii. Style of lettering for all signs.
iii. Appearance/location of logos or icons.
iv. Location of each sign on the building(s), with building elevations if necessary.
v. All sign proportions.
vi. Types of illumination.
4. Amendment. A Comprehensive Sign Plan may be amended by filing a new Comprehensive
Sign Plan, in conformance with the requirements of the Sign Ordinance in effect at that
time, and obtaining approval of the Planning Director.
5. Binding Effect
a. After approval of a Comprehensive Sign Plan, no permanent sign shall be erected,
placed, painted or maintained by the property owner or any buyer, tenant, subtenant,
assignee, employee, agent or other party in use of the subject property except in
conformance with such plan without obtaining a sign permit and in conformance with
the Comprehensive Sign Plan.
b. If the City Council has approved a Comprehensive Sign Plan with flexible criteria, the
Planning Director is authorized to approve, through the standard sign permit approval
process, sign applications in conformance with the comprehensive sign plan, but only
to the extent that the application is in conformance with the Comprehensive Sign Plan.
c. The terms and conditions of an approved Comprehensive Sign Plan shall have the same
force and effect and be enforced in the same manner as any other provision of this
Section.
J. Temporary Signs
1. General Requirements. Temporary signs shall conform to the following standards:
a. Permit Required. No temporary sign may be displayed without a valid temporary sign
permit or portable sign permit.
b. Sign Type. Temporary signs may include any sign type permitted by this Section.
c. Number. No more than two (2) temporary signs may be displayed on a lot at any time.
d. Surface Area. The maximum area of all temporary signs displayed shall be a combined
total of eight (8) square-feet if displayed for ten (10) days or tonger.
e. Location. Temporary signs shall be located only upon the premises to which the
special, unique, or limited activity, service product, sale, or event is to occur. No
20
temporary sign may be placed off-premise except as otherwise provided elsewhere in
this Section.
f. Duration. No temporary sign permit shall be issued to erect or maintain any temporary
signage for a period exceeding twenty-one (21) days, or to be displayed three (3) days
after termination of the activity, service, project, sale, or event to which the sign
pertains, whichever comes first. A permit for a temporary sign or signs shall be granted
no more than four (4) times in any calendar year and only once every three (3) months.
g. Installation Requirements. All temporary signs shall be constructed, anchored and
supported in a manner which reasonably prevents the possibility of such signs becoming
hazards to the public health and safety as determined by the Planning Director.
2. Business Opening Signs. Business opening signs may be displayed on lots having commercial
or industrial occupancies subject to the following provisions:
a. Permit Required. A permit shall be issued before a business opening sign may be
erected. The permit may not be renewed.
b. Type of Sign and Location. A business opening sign may be a wall sign, projecting sign,
or ground sign. A business opening sign may be displayed in addition to, in lieu of, or
affixed to a permanent sign. A banner may be used as a business opening sign.
c. Size. The size of a business opening sign shall be determined by the type of sign
chosen, and shall be limited to the maximum size allowed for a permanent sign of that
type at that location.
d. Illumination. A business opening sign may be illuminated subject to §154.212.F.7.
e. Duration. A business opening sign may be displayed for a period not to exceed thirty
(30) days from the date the business opened, changed names, or changed ownership.
3. Portable Signs. In addition to the general requirements pertaining to temporary signs, the
following standards pertain to portable signs:
a. Permit Required. A sign permit shall be issued on an annual basis before a stationary
portable sign may be erected. Such permit shall only be valid during the calendar year
during which it is issued.
b. Construction. A sign shall be manufactured to a professional standard of construction,
finish and graphics. A portable sign shall be free-standing, self-supported and
constructed of substantial materials such as wood, metal or plastic such that the sign
will reasonably withstand the elements.
c. Size and Design Regulations:
i. A portable sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet in surface area per side, with a
maximum of two (2) signable sides or faces.
ii. The sign shall not exceed three (3) feet measured at the widest point of the sign
face.
iii. Any portion of the sign's face used for a chalk or dry-erase board shall not exceed
fifty percent (50%) of the total sign face surface area.
d. Number. One portable sign may be displayed per business or occupant in any
commercial or industrial area or Planned Unit Development.
e. Location. A portable sign is restricted to the lot of the business establishment to which
a permit has been issued, except such a sign may be located in the public right-of-way
in front of the premises only where no front setback is required.
f. Placement: A portable sign shall:
21
i. Be placed only along sidewalks where a minimum five (5) foot wide clear sidewalk
is maintained. In no event shall a portable sign be placed on any bicycle path. The
placement of a portable sign shall not obstruct access to any crosswalk, mailbox,
curb cut, fire hydrant, fire escape, fire door, building entrance, public parking
space or any other public property, nor shall a sign obstruct the ability of persons
to exit/ enter vehicles parked along the curb;
ii. Not be attached, chained or in any manner affixed to public property including
street trees, utility poles or sign posts;
iii. Not obstruct the clear view of any traffic signal, regulatory sign or street sign;
iv. Not be located closer than 10 feet to any other portable sign;
v. Not be located directly adjacent to a bus stop or transit vehicle, shall not obstruct
sight lines of road users, nor be placed less than twenty-five (25) feet from a street
intersection or fifteen (15) feet from a crosswalk;
vi. Not be placed in such a way as to interfere with snowplowing of the streets;
vii. Be maintained free of snow, be placed on solid ground at all times and shall not be
placed on top of snow banks.
g. Illumination. A portable sign shall not be illuminated.
h. Time Limitations and Removal. A portable sign may be displayed only during business
hours. Such sign must be removed and safely stored out of view during times when the
business is not open to the public. Trailers or other vehicles that are not used
principally as a sign may be parked on the lot when the business is not open to the
public.
i. Enforcement. Portable signs located within the public right-of-way are a privilege and
not a right. The City in permitting placement of such signs in the public right of way
reserves the right to require their removal at any time because of anticipated or
unanticipated problems or conflicts. To the extent possible, the permittee shall be
given prior notice of any time period during which, or location at which, the placement
of portable signs is prohibited. Furthermore, the sign permit may be revoked by the
Planning Director following notice to the permittee. The permit may be revoked if one
or more conditions outlined in this section have been violated, or if the sign is
determined to constitute a public nuisance not specifically outlined in this section.
Following the revocation of the sign permit, no application for the same site shall be
filed within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of revocation. The permittee
has a right to appeal the decision of the Planning Director within thirty (30) days of
issuance of a revocation notice pursuant to §154.212.N.2.
j. Indemnification. Where a temporary, portable sign is permitted in the public right-of-
way, the owner, lessee or lessor of the business to which a permit has been issued and
the property owner shall agree in writing to fully indemnify and hold the City harmless
for any personal injury or property damage resulting from the existence or operation of
said sign, and shall furnish evidence of general liability insurance in the amount of fifty
thousand dollars ($50,000.00) with the City as additional named insured or provide
other security to the satisfaction of the City Administrator.
k. Permit Renewal. The permit for a portable sign must be renewed annually prior to
January 1 of each year.
K. Signs Exempt from Permit. Consistent with the purpose and scope of this ordinance, the City
recognizes that certain temporary, necessary, or limited-purpose signs should be lawfully
displayed without the need to obtain a permit and should not count as part of the specific sign
area allowed to be displayed on a particular property. All signs exempt from permit
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requirements must, nonetheless, adhere to all other applicable sections of this ordinance and
all other applicable State and Federal regulations. The City finds that the following signs may
be displayed without a permit because they serve an immediate or temporary traffic safety or
wayfinding function:
1. Address and Nameplates. Address and name plates not exceeding three (3) square feet in
area.
2. Athletic Field Signage. Signs, banners, and scoreboards designed solely for view from
spectator areas and displayed on interior walls, fences, or other structures located inside
an enclosed athletic field at a school, park, or other public or private athletic complex.
Approval of the Park Commission shall be required to display a sign, banner, or scoreboard
under this paragraph at a City park.
3. Awning Signage. Signs displayed on awnings located on commercial or industrial buildings
provided that the signs are displayed on the lowest twelve inches (12") of the principal
face or side panels of awnings and provided that they do not exceed six inches (6") in
height.
4. City Signs on City Property. City signs on City property not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in area.
5. Construction Signs. Such signs may only be placed on the property where work is in
progress, shall not be erected prior to the beginning of work for which a valid building
permit has been issued, and shall be removed within ten (10) days of completion of work or
the expiration of the building permit, whichever is sooner. Construction signs on parcels in
residential or park uses shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet per street frontage.
Construction sign area for commercial, industrial, multi-family, or planned development
uses on parcels less than 100,000 square feet shall not exceed sixty four (64) square feet
per street frontage; and on parcels greater than 100,000 square feet shall not exceed
ninety six (96) square feet per street frontage. Square footage may be divided.
6. Flags. Flags that comply with the provisions of §154.212.H.9.
7. Garage Sale and Estate Sale Signs. Signs advertising a garage sale shall not exceed four (4)
square feet in area, shall not be displayed for a period of time more than seventy-two (72)
consecutive hours and may be displayed no more than twice in any one calendar year. Up
to three (3) residential garage sale signs may be displayed per event, two (2) of which may
be displayed off-premises, but not in the public right-of-way. Any such sign placed on
private property must have the consent of the property owner on whose property such sign
is displayed.
8. Gavernment Signs, Including Traffic or Official Public Hearing Natice Signs. Such signs are
placed, authorized, or required by the City or other authorized governmental agency. The
requirements for maximum area, height, setback, or other size, materials or physical
specifications shall be as required by law or the authorizing agency.
9. Holiday and Temporary DecoraOans. Holiday or temporary decorations when located on
private property, or with the approval of the City if on public property. In addition, any
sign in the nature of a decoration, identification or direction, incidentally and customarily
associated with any national or religious holiday 01· any civic festival, fair or similar
gathering, held during a period of ten (10) days or less in any year, provided such sign shall
not differ substantially from the requirements set forth in this Section. Such decorations
may not contain any commercial message or logo or depict any commercial symbol or
character.
10. Home Occupation Signs. Signs identifying only the name and occupation of the resident.
Home occupation signs shall be non-illuminated, flush-mounted to a wall of the residence,
and shall not exceed two (2) square feet in area.
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11. Memorial Signs. Any non-commercial sign in the nature of a cornerstone, commemorative,
or historical tablet or landmark designation plaque.
12. Menu Signs. Menu signs up to fifty-five (55) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height,
provided they are located within fifteen (15) feet of the commercial building with which
they are associated or advertise and in a manner such that the copy is not readily viewable
from the public right-of-way or a residential occupancy on an adjacent lot.
13. Non-Commercial Messages. One sign per parcel per street frontage carrying any lawful non-
commercial message not exceeding twelve (12) square feet in area. Any other permitted
commercial sign may be substituted for a noncommercial message but will count toward
the total signage type and area for the parcel upon which it is located. Hand-held signs
carrying noncommercial messages are not subject to any size limitation so long as they are
held by and under the physical control of a person during all times they are on display.
14. Parking Lot Regulation Signs. Parking signs not exceeding nine (9) square feet and having a
minimum setback of ten (10) feet.
15. Parking Lot Directional Signs. Signs must comply with the provisions of §154.212.H.8.
16. Parking Lot Traffic Signs, as required by law.
17. Political ond Election Campaign Signs. Signs containing a political message and displayed
during an election campaign period are allowed in addition to the noncommercial message
sign under subsection (13) during the election campaign period, however, after ten (10)
days has passed from the election date such sign may continue to be displayed, but will
count as the allowed noncommercial message sign under subsection (13). Political and
election campaign signs may also substitute for any commercial message sign in the same
manner. Unless substituted for another permitted sign, such signs shall not have any
electrical component. Such signs shall not have a mechanical or audio auxiliary component,
and shall not be attached to or placed on utility poles, trees, traffic devices, or within the
public right-of·way.
18. Real Estate Signs Advertising Residential Properties. Signs located on premise may not be
placed above the top of the lowest level of the building. All signs authorized under this
subsection shall be removed within ten (10) days of the sale or rental of the residential
units being advertised.
a. For lots containing less than four (4) dwelling units within one residential structure,
one non-illuminated real estate sign up to six (6) square feet per unit may be displayed
to advertise the sale or rental of the premises or any part thereof.
b. For lots where at least four (4) but less than sixteen (16) dwelling units are contained
within one residential structure, one non-illuminated real estate sign up to twelve (12)
square feet may be displayed to advertise the sale or rental of the premises or any part
thereof.
c. For lots where sixteen (16) or more dwelling units are contained within one residential
structure, one non-illuminated real estate sign up to thirty-two (32) square feet may be
displayed to advertise the sale or rental of the premises or any part thereof.
d. Up to two (2) signs directing traffic to "open houses'', each sign no more than six (6)
square feet in area, may be installed off property after obtaining the consent of the
property owner on whose property such sign is to be displayed. These signs may not be
located in the public right-of-way. These off property directional signs may be
displayed only during the hours that the advertised activity is to take place, and they
must be a self-supporting type sign.
19. Real Estate Signs Advertising Single Occupant Commercial Property. For lots less than five
(5) acres, one non-illuminated real estate sign up to twelve (12) square feet in area may be
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displayed. For larger lots, one non-illuminated real estate sign up to thirty-two (32) square
feet in area may be displayed. All signs authorized under this subsection shall be removed
within ten (1 O) days of the sale or rental of the commercial unit being advertised.
20. Real Estate Signs Advertising Non-Residential Grouped Development or Multi-Tenant
Buildings. For each group development or multi-tenant building containing nonresidential
land uses, a maximum of two (2) signs, one per each nonresidential street frontage, may be
displayed up to a maximum of thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
21. Real Estate Subdivision Signs. For each real estate subdivision that has been approved in
accordance with the City of Lake Elmo subdivision regulations, a maximum of two (2)
temporary development project identification signs may be located on some portion of the
subject subdivision. Each such sign shall be not more than thirty-two (32) square feet in
area. One additional similar sign shall be permitted for each one hundred (100) lots in the
subdivision in excess of one hundred (100) lots. These signs may be displayed until a time
at which building permits have been issued for eighty percent (80%) of the lots in the
subdivision. Signs advertising sale or lease after such time shall conform to the
requirements of subsection (18) of this section.
22. Temporary Notices. Leaflet-type notices flat-mounted to kiosks or public information
boards.
23. Utility Company Signs. Signs that serve as an aid to public safety or that show the location
of facilities such as public telephones and underground cables only to the extent necessary
to accomplish those goals.
24. Window Signs, Temporary. Signs and displays that are of a temporary nature such as for
advertising sales and specials and that do not cover more than thirty (30) percent of the
total ground-floor window area of any building, excluding the door windows. Merchandise
and pictures or models of products or services incorporated in a window display are not
considered signs. Any sign placed on the outside of a window requires a sign permit unless
the sign is weatherproof and does not pose a danger from falling or being blown by the
wind.
25. Window or Wall Signs Not Readable Off-Premises. Window or wall signs not exceeding two
(2) square feet in area with lettering not exceeding three (3) inches high designed to
provide information to persons on the premises such as hours of operation, or sample
restaurant menu. Where no front yard setback exists, such signs as would generally be
unreadable off premises where minimum setback regulations apply shall qualify for this
exemption notwithstanding that such signs are readable from the public right of way. Such
signs shall not be counted toward total permitted signage.
L. Prohibited Signs. The following signs are expressly prohibited in the City of Lake Elmo:
1. Abandoned Signs
2. Off-Premise Signs, except as expressly allowed under this Section.
3. Inflatable Signs
a. Rationale. Inflatable signs shall be prohibited because they are generally more
distracting and hazardous to pedestrian and traffic safety, tend to have an anchoring
device that is less reliable under wind pressure, and out of scale and less compatible
with surrounding structures and signs.
b. The following inflatable devices shall not be considered a sign:
i. Registered hot air balloons in use and momentarily moored but not being used
primarily as a sign.
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ii. Novelty-type balloons less than two (2) feet in diameter and less than three (3)
feet in any dimension tethered or moored no more than ten (10) feet above the
ground.
iii. Inflatable holiday or other decorations displayed temporarily on private property,
that do not contain any commercial message or logo or depict any commercial
symbol or character, and that does not exceed fifteen (15) feet in height.
4. Signs attached to any public utility pole or structure, street tree, fence, fire hydrant,
bridge, curb, sidewalk, park bench, or other location on public property except as
otherwise expressly permitted under this Section.
5. Beacons, unless authorized for use by the City of Lake Elmo or any other governmental
entity in the exercise of official government business and authority.
M. Legal Non-Conforming Signs. Any legal non-conforming sign may continue to be displayed or
replaced consistent with §154.150 through §154.151, Non-Conforming Uses and Structures.
N. Variances and Appeals
1. Variances. It is recognized that circumstances may exist from time to time where strict
application of the size, location and type of sign standards hereinafter specified for the
various zoning districts may be unreasonable or where literal enforcement of the
regulations may work an unnecessary hardship on the applicant. Variations from the
standards are, therefore, permitted by issuance of a variance by the City Council upon
recommendation of the Planning Commission that such extenuating circumstances exist.
Variances shall be considered according to the provisions of §154.017.
2. Appeals. An applicant may appeal any decision of the Planning Director to the Board of
Adjustment and Appeals according to the provisions of §31.10.
0. Violations
1. It shall be unlawful and a violation of this ordinance for any person to maintain any
prohibited sign, to perform or order the performance of any act prohibited by this
ordinance, or to fail to perform any act which is required by the provisions of this Section.
In the case of any such violation, each twenty four (24) hour period in which such violation
exists shall constitute a separate violation.
2. Any and all signs, erected, altered, or maintained in violation of this Section, or any of the
clauses and provisions of the same, or in violation of any of the laws or ordinances of the
City and/or the State of Minnesota, are, and each of them is declared to be a public
nuisance and subject to enforcement. Any such signs so erected, altered or maintained
contrary to law shall be abated as a common nuisance by the Planning Director.
P. Penalty. Any person who shall fail to comply with any of the provisions of this Section shall be
subject to a penalty as prescribed by §10.99 of this Code.
Q. Enforcement
1. If the Planning Director or Building Official finds that any sign has been erected, altered, or
is being maintained in violation of this section, or is in an unsafe condition as to be a
menace to the safety, health, or welfare of the public, he or she shall give written notice
to the owner thereof of the person entitled to possession of the sign and the owner of the
real estate upon which the sign is located. No notice shall be required for permitted
temporary signs displayed in violation of time limitations prior to taking enforcement
action.
2. Said letter shall notify the owner, or person entitled to possession of the sign, of the
specific violation or violations and direct that alterations, repairs or removal, whichever
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may be applicable, be made to bring said violations in conformance with the terms and
conditions of this Section.
3. In the event the person so notified fails or neglects to comply with or conform to the
requirements of such notice, the Planning Director or Building Official may file an
appropriate citation or complaint in an appropriate court of law or take whatever other
legal action may be necessary to cause such sign to be altered or removed. If a sign is
considered abandoned, the City, after notice, may remove such sign at the cost of the
owner of the property upon which the sign sits. An invoice for such costs shall be sent to
the property owner and, if not paid, shall be placed on the tax roll as a special charge
pursuant to M.S. §429.061.
R. Severability and Conflict
1. Severability. The provisions of this ordinance are severable. If any section, subsection,
sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this ordinance is for any reason held invalid or
unconstitutional, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent
provision, and such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions thereof.
2. Conflict. If any part of this ordinance is found to be in conflict with any other ordinance or
with any other part of this ordinance, the most restrictive or highest standard shall prevail.
If any part of this ordinance is explicitly prohibited by federal or state stature that part
shall not be enforced.
SECTION 5. Effective Date. This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon
adoption and publication in the official newspaper of the City of Lake Elmo.
SECTION 6. Adoption Date. Tfs Ordinance 08-082 was adopted on this eighteenth
day of June 2013, by a vote of Ayes and 0 Nays.
ATTEST:
Adam Bell, City Clerk
This Ordinance 08-082 was published on the __ day of ________ , 2013.
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