§ 12.12.080. Exempted signs.

A.

The following signs shall not require a sign permit. These exemptions shall not be construed as relieving the sign permittee, owner of the sign and owner and lessee of the property upon which the sign and structure is located from the sole responsibility for its erection and maintenance, and its compliance with the provisions of this chapter or any other law or ordinance regulating same.

1.

The changing of the advertising copy or message on a painted or printed sign only.

2.

Painting, repainting or cleaning of an advertising structure or the changing of the advertising copy or message thereon shall not be considered an erection or alteration which requires a sign permit unless a structural change is made.

3.

No permits shall be required for temporary signs, which include political signs, construction signs, real estate signs and community signs. However, portable signs shall require an annual permit on a calendar year basis even though portable signs are defined as temporary signs herein.

B.

Temporary Signs.

1.

For the purpose of this chapter and this section, the following shall apply:

a.

Temporary signs advertising an event may only be displayed ten days prior to the event advertised and must be removed within ten days after the event is completed.

b.

Except for city rights-of-way and city property, temporary signs shall be permitted in all zones unless otherwise specified. Temporary signs are intended to be displayed for a short period of time only.

c.

In residential areas including without limitation zones R, RS and NC, no temporary signs shall exceed six square feet in area nor exceed three feet in one of its dimensions. Temporary signs may not exceed four feet in height, measured from the top to the curb of the nearest roadway.

d.

In commercial zones including zones MD and I, temporary signs may not exceed thirty-two square feet in area nor exceed eight feet in one of its dimensions. Temporary signs in a commercial zone may not exceed six feet in height measured from the top of the curb of the nearest roadway.

2.

Portable signs are considered temporary signs but shall require an annual permit on a calendar year basis. All portable signs containing electrical wiring shall be subject to the provisions of the National Electrical Code and all other applicable codes and the electrical components used shall bear the label of an approved testing agency. Sign design, material and construction shall comply with Chapter 4 of the Uniform Sign Code adopted by the International Conference of Building Officials. All portable signs shall be stabilized and anchored to the ground to restrict displacement by the wind or other accidental force. If the use of a portable sign changes, it must be re-permitted as a permanent sign for the location.

3.

Temporary banner signs may be used extending over public property provided, however, such use satisfies all other parts of this chapter applicable thereto and the requirements of all other ordinances. Any such user shall first apply for and receive the written approval of the building inspector before erecting such temporary banner.

(Ord. 1848-2006 § 2(part), 2006; Ord. 1340-88 § 2(part), 1988).