HomeMy WebLinkAbout1B, Sign Code
~
~~HILLS
City Council
Agenda Packet Item:
~
~HIEES
MEMORANDUM
DATE: February 19, 2008
TO: Mayor and City Couneil
FROM: James Lehnhoff, City P1aune~
SUBJECT: Planning Case #08-004
Sign Code Amendments
ATTACHMENTS: Proposed Sign Code with Changes
Requested Action
Review proposed changes to the Sign Code and provide comments and questions.
Backe:round
In January 2007, the City Council enacted a one-year moratorium on dynamic display signage.
Dynamic display signs are billboards or other types of signs that can change messages and/or
pietures electronically. The Clear Channel billboard at the northeast intersection of Interstates
35W and 694 is an example of a dynamic display sign. During the moratorium period, dynamic
sign research was reviewed, the City's legal counsel was consulted, and other city's regulations
were evaluated. The City Council came to a consensus that new dynamie signage should not be
permitted in the City at this time. Although the current regulations do not permit dynamic
signage, it was determined that the language banning such signs should be clarified. Therefore,
the City Council has directed Staff to prepare an amendment to the Sign Code that specifically
prohibits new dynamic signage.
Although the Sign Code was last updated in June of2006, it is important to evaluate City codes
to ensure that they are meeting City goals and State statutes. Therefore, in addition to the more
specific dynamic sign regulations, Staff is proposing other changes to further clarify and update
the Sign Code.
Since the Sign Code is not part of the Zoning Code, State Statutes and the City Code do not
require a public hearing with the Planning Commission to make ehanges to the Sign Code.
However, in order to have additional review of the proposed changes, the Planning Commission
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reviewed the proposed changes at their regular meeting on January 9,2008, and at a work
session on February 6, 2008. The Planning Commission came to a eonsensus at their February 6
meeting that the proposed changes shouJd be forwarded to the City Council for review. Pending
the results of this City Council work session, official review of the changes has tentatively been
set for the March 10, 2008, City Council Meeting.
Existinl!: Dynamic Disulay Sil!:ns
There are four existing dynamic signs in the City:
1. North Heights Church message sign;
2. Holiday Gas Station gas pricing sign;
3. Brausen's auto body shop sign on County Road E and Highway 51/Hamline Avenue;
and,
4. Clear Channel's electronic billboard at the northeast intersection ofInterstate 35W and
694.
The first three dynamic display signs were installed in accordance with City regulations and
approved plans. These three signs will not be impacted by any changes made to the Sign Code.
However, the Clear Channel billboard was installed in violation of City regulations. The City is
in litigation with Clear Channel.
Potential Policy Chanl!:es to be Addressed
As the Sign Code has been reviewed, a number of policy questions have been brought up by the
Planning Commission and by Staff. Therefore, direction on these issues is being requested from
the City Council:
1. Should roll out portable signs be permitted?
In recent months, there has been an increasing coneem over the aesthetics of the roll out
portable signs. The previous Sign Code did not speeifically allow these types of signs and
hence were prohibited; however, they were specifically added into the current Sign Code in
2006. Some cities permit these types of signs while others ban them completely.
2. Should the A -frame (sandwich) signs placed in front of businesses be permitted?
There has been an increasing number of inquires about the use of A-frame signs, which are
commonly called sandwich signs. While some businesses have been using them, the current
Sign Code does not directly address these types of signs. Some cities permit these types of
signs while others ban them completely.
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There are a handful of businesses that use the manual changing message boards, which are
classified separately from dynamic changing signs. These signs ean be seen at MeDonalds
and Flaherty's bowling alley. Changeable message signs are quite popular with businesses
but are not clearly addressed in the current Code. If specifieally permitted, Staff would
reeommend limiting how much of a sign could be a manual ehanging message board (i.e. 35
percent or less).
3. Should the manual changing message boards be permitted?
4. Should internal window signs require a permit?
Although the Sign Code regulates internal window signs and permits are teclmically
required, Staff has had very little luck in obtaining sign permits for these types of signs
because the signs change so frequently and very few complaints are made. Therefore, Staff
feels that it is worth a diseussion to determine if permits are actually practical and should be
required. While Staff is comfortable removing the permit requirement, Staff would still
recommend that the Sign Code retain the regulations that limit the amount of window area
that can be covered with signs. This only refers to signs placed inside of a building and
facing out. A banner placed over a window on the outside of a building would still require a
permit.
5. What is the appropriate time limit for a temporary sign?
The current side code is somewhat unclear in how many times a property can have a
temporary sign. The temporary sign is clearly limited to 30 days, but past interpretations
have suggested that a property could have multiple signs for 30 days each time. In order to
remove any confusion on this limitation, Staff is recommending that the Code be amended to
state that a property or business can have a temporary sign on three occasions per calendar
year with a maximum of ten days of display for each oceasion. The permits could be used
conseeutively.
6. Should businesses with grand openings and space for rent be allowed to have additional
temporary signage?
While the City cannot regulate the content of a message, the City can allow properties with
new business grand openings and vacancies to have alternative temporary sign regulations.
For discussion purposes, these regulations have been included in Section 1250.02 Subd 4 and
5.
Preliminary Recommended Chanl!es to the Sil!n Code
The attached amended Sign Code shows the proposed changes, additions, and deletions. This
section outlines the significant or notable proposed changes to the Sign Code. There are only a
City of Arden Hills
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handful of actual policy changes, which are described below. Most of the changes are
elarifications to existing procedures.
Section 1200: Purpose and Findings
. Specific findings and authorizing language that support the reasons for regulating signs
was added. This section sets the basis for the City's sign regulations and is important for
justifYing the regulations within the Sign Code.
Seetion 1210: Definitions
. Defmitions were added or clarified for auxiliary signs, billboard, dynamic display, grand
opening, internal sign, outdoor advertising sign (billboard), and portable sign.
. The clear vision area de[mition is not a completely new definition; it was moved from
another part ofthe Sign Code to the definition section.
. The definition for internal sign was separate from auxiliary sign. The City does not
restrict or require permits for internal signs because they are not visible from adjacent
properties or the public right-of-way and hence have no impact on the City. This is not a
significant policy change, but the Code has been clarified on this point. Auxiliary signs
do require a permit because they are visible from the right-of-way and other properties.
Auxiliary signs are typieally noncommercial direetional signs.
. A definition for "grand opening" was added and regulations related to temporary signs
for businesses with grand openings were added to Section 1250.02 Subd 4.
. The "sign height" definition was amended to measure height from the average elevation
ofthe nearest street instead of the first floor elevation ofthe nearest building.
Section 1220: Permit and Review Process
. Staff discussed the review and appeals proeess with the City Attorney. State Statutes do
not provide a speeific process for evaluating sign permits, but the City does need to have
a clear review and appeal process. A draft of the proposed process is in the plan, but this
section is under review by the City Attorney.
. The appeal process was modified to clearly state that the Planning Commission makes a
recommendation to the City Council on sign permit appeals. The previous language
indicated that the Planning Commission made the final decision, which was not the intent
of the Code.
Section 1230: Exempt and Prohibited Signs:
. Sectionl230.01 Subd 2 includes the State Statute required section for signs during the
eleetion season. A provision to allow property owners to place signs in the right-of-way
immediately adjoining their property was added by referencing Section 1250.03 Subd 2,
3, and 4, which allows signs in the right-of-way under certain conditions. This provision
was added because many people do not know where the right-of-way starts, and it is not
consistent throughout the City. The City cannot give permission to property owners to
place signs in the County, State, or Federal right-of-way. Ultimately, allowing signs in
the City right-of-way is subject to City discretion.
City of Arden Hills
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. The allowed address identification sign size was increased from two square feet to four
square feet to provide more flexibility for property owners to adequately display their
address numbers without needing a sign permit. Also, address signs are now required for
all properties.
. The sign permit exemption was extended to window signs, whieh is a discussion item.
. Dynamic display signs are specifically prohibited in this section.
Section 1240: General Sign Regulations
. The definition of sign district four was clarified so that properties eannot fall into
multiple sign districts, as was the case with the Arden Plaza redevelopment application.
. In subdivision two, the regulations for determining permitted sign areas for freestanding
signs were clarified but the intent was not changed.
. Section 1240.03 was added to address the manually changeable message sign. Under this
version, up to 35 percent of a sign could be a manually changeable message sign.
Section 1250: Special Provisions
. The regulations allocating signage on multi-tenant properties were clarified. The intent
of the regulations has not changed, but the regulations will now be easier to enforce since
there is less room for interpretation. A multi-tenant property is treated like one parcel for
monument/freestanding signs, and the property owner is responsible for allocating the
permitted signage.
. In section 1250.02 Subd I, the temporary sign allotment was set at three occasions per
calendar year with a maximum of ten days for each occasion for a total of 30 days per
year. The permits could be used consecutively. This current code is somewhat unclear
on the exact limitation for a temporary sign. Therefore, staff is proposing this
clarification, which is a discussion item.
. The temporary signage regulations for multi-tenant properties were also clarified because
there was conflicting language for freestanding temporary signs. Staff recommends
including language that clearly limits the total amount of temporary freestanding sign
area a multi-tenant property could have. As proposed, the total amount of temporary
freestanding sign area could not exceed one half the total permitted permanent
freestanding sign area in the underlying sign distriet. The property owner would allocate
the sign area. For example, if a parcel was allowed 100 square feet of freestanding sign
area, the parcel could have 50 square feet of temporary signage at anyone time. All the
tenants would be required to share that 50 square feet of temporary freestanding signage.
. One significant addition to the Sign Code in 2006 was the addition of language that
allowed people to place temporary signs in the City's right-of-way along eity streets
without a permit. While this provision has been helpful to residents, it has also led to
some eomplaints about people placing temporary signs in the rights-of-way in front of
other people's homes. Therefore, Staff recommends adding language that requires
people to obtain permission from property sharing a property line with the right-of-way.
. A new provision was added in Section 1250.02 Subd 4 to allow businesses with "grand
openings" to have one additional temporary sign for up to 30 days. This is a one time
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only permit for a new business. The eligibility for this one time permit expires six
months after a business opens.
. A new provision was added in Seetion 1250.02 Subd 5 to allow buildings or pareels with
vacant space to obtain a temporary sign permit that does not expire until the vacant space
is filled. The temporary sign would need to be removed seven days after the space is
filled. The property owner could use a monument sign or a wall sign but not both. The
wall sign would be limited to 25 square feet and the monument sign would be limited to
15 square feet.
Section 1260: Sign Standard Adjustment
. The City Council determined that dynamic signs should not be permitted through the sign
standard adjustment process, and that language has been added.
. The "conditional use permit" process was removed from 1260.01. Upon further review, a
sign standard adjustment can be limited to the site plan review and PUD process.
Section 1280: Non-conforming Signs
. The language nonconforming signs regulations were updated to be in conformance with
State Statutes (462.357 Subd l.e). The City is required to follow these regulations.
Attachments
Proposed Sign Code with marked amendments and additions
City of Arden Hills
City Council Work Session for February 19,2008
IlMetro-inet.us\ardenhills\PlanninglPlanning Cases\2008\08-004 Sign Code (UPCOMING)1021908 - CC WS Report -Sign Code Update.doc
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1200 - Pnrpose and Intent
1200.01 Recitals. This Chapter shall be known, cited and referred to as the Arden Hills
Sign Code, except as referred to herein, where it shall be known as ~'this chapter".
1200.02 Purpose andFindine-s. The purpose and findings of this Sie:D ordinance are as un
follows:
Subd. 1 This shm ordinance is intended to establish a comprehensive and balanced
system of Sit!D control that accommodates the need for a well~maintained~ safe~ and
attractive community. and the need for effective communications. includine-
business identification. It is the intent of these Sif!ll rCfmlatioIls. to promote the
health. safety. eeners} welfare. aesthetics. and imat!e of the community bv rC1!ulatinf!
Sif!llS that are intended to communicate to the public in all residential. commercial.
and industrial areas in the City. It is not the purpose or intent of this Chapter to
regulate the message displayed on any sign. TIle purpose of these si1!U re{!ulations is n//
to authorize:
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/{ Deleted: Intent
Deleted: he regulations in this
<;:hapter governing signs are
eStablished to:
City of Arden Hills
'l._____~nn..u_
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Chapter 12 Sign Code
A. 'Permanent si!!ns which establish a hif!h standard of aesthetics and are
aopropriate for the planned character in each sie:n district as established in
Section 1240;
B. Shms which are comoatible with their surroundim!s:
C. Sie:llS which arc deshmed. constructed. installed and maintained in a
manner that does not adverselv imoact public safety or unduly distract
motorists:
D. Shms that are oroportioned to the scale of. and arc architecturally
comoatible with. orincipal structures:
E.Permanent sit!ns which give Dreference to the on~oremise owner or
occupant:
F. Temporary commercial shms and advertisine: disolays which provide an
opportunity to advertise while restrictine: shms that create continuous visual
clutter and hazards at public rh!ht~of~wav intersections:
-------...-..-- -----......--- ______n_...... _____nun.. ________._....___u ___n........_ ______u....____
~Minimize adverse effects on nearby property; and,
DRAFT Febrnary 19, 2008
'fo-e,eted: S~bd.l. Regulate-~h;i
:' number,location,size,type, I
:' illumination, and other physical I
,: charac!eristiC-'i of signs within the City I'
/ in order to promote the public health
.: safety, and welfarej'
__m: ~
. SuM. 2 _ Allow effective signage i
appropriate to the planned character
of each sign district;,
~
. Subd. 3 . Promote an attractive
environment while providing for
effective means of communication
consistent with constitutional
guarantees and the City's goals of
~~;~~ ~~~e~~ ~~:g~~~~~~s~~~:__ _. ~ ~ J
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
H. Provide for fair and consistent enforcement of the sign regulations set forth
herein under the zouing authority of the City.
Subd 2. The City finds it is necessary for the promotion and preservation of the
public health. safety. welfare and aesthetics oCtile community that the construction.
location. size. and maintenance of shms be controlled. Further. the city finds:
A.Permanent and temporary silms have a direct imoact on and relationship
to the hnae:e and aesthetic of the community:
B. The manIler of installation. location and maintenance of sil!ns affects the
Dublic health. safety. welfare and aesthetics oCtile community:
C. An ODDortunitv 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 bv the number. size. location and aooearance
of si!!ns that undulv divert the attention of drivers. particularlv from
dynamic display sims:
E. Installation of si!!ns suspended from. oroiecti"!! over. or placed on the
tons of buildin!!s. walks or other structures mav constitute a hazard durin!!
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
periods of hi~h winds and an obstacle to effective fire-fi~htin~ and other
emerecncv service:
F. Uncontrolled and unlimited sitms adverselv imnact the imalre and
aesthetic attractiveness of the community and thereby undermine economic
value and !!rowth:
G. Uncontrolled and unlimited slens. oarticularlv temoorary shms which arc
commonlv located within or adiacent to Dublic ri2ht-of-wav or are located at
driveway/street intersections~ result in roadside clutter and obstruction of
vic'lYS of oncominl! traffic. This creates a hazard to drivers and pedestrians
and also adversely impacts a lol!ical flow of information:
H. Commercial sil!ns are t!enerallv incompatible with residential uses and
should be strictly limited in residential zuni"!! districts: and
I. The rif!:ht to express noncommercial ooinions in any ZOniD!! district must
be orotected. subiect to reasonable restrictions on size. hei!!ht. location and
number.
1200.03 Scope of Regulations. The sign regulations set forth in this Chapter shall apply to
all structures and all land uses. This Chapter describes the signage standards for
permitted and conditional uses in the nine sign districts that overlay the zoning districts of
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
the City. Specific additional regulations are established or signs which are unique in
purpose and not easily addressed by district regulations. No person shall place, erect,
modify, or maintain a sign, nor shall a lessee or owner permit property under their control
to be used for such sign, that does not conform to the requirements of this Chapter, and all
other applicable regulations.
1200.04 Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phase of this Chapter is
for any reason held to be invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or
enforceability of the remaining portion of this Chapter. The City Council hereby declares
that it would have adopted the Chapter in each section, subsection, sentence, or phase
thereof, irrespective of the fact that anyone or more sections, subjections, sentences,
clauses, or phrases are declared invalid.
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1210 - Definitions
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:
/1 Deleted: solely
Subd. 1 Auxiliary sign: a sign that.D_~~_"Y}_c!~~!!'.t?~.~ti_~E_f~!'.~.~~~!'_~!!!_~~_~~_~J~!!~~tm._..n..<'::~~_.{ Deleted: ing
parking or entry, restrictions on parking, security warnings, or other similar
/'~~~':.d: similar
orimarilv noncommercial..sig!!~ that are directed at ocoJ?lc that are entcrine:.
~
exiting. or on a oarticular orooertv. Auxiliarv si!!ns do not include outdoor
///{ Deleted:
advertisinl! si!!ns,-_...
Subd.2 Billboard: see "Outdoor advertisinl! sie:n."
Subd 3. Canopy/awning sign: a visual message or logo on an awning or canopy
which is constructed according to the requirements of the building code, is an
integrat part of the bnilding, and is consistent with the architectnre and design of
the building.
Subd. 4 Clear vision area: The clear vision area shall be an area within a triangle
that is measured aloll!! the edl!e of the drivinl! surface of the road startinl! at the
intersection of two roads (public or private) and extending: thirty (30) feet in each
direction from the intersection and then a line connectim! these two end Doints.
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
D
,
,
,
,
,
,
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,
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sie:n face but is not a dynamic disolav. The messae:e is cham!ed manualIv'I:(mnnmnnm,
Deleted: SuM. 1 . Billboard: a sign
that is used for the primary purpose of
selling space advertising a product,
service, business, or event which is not
offered for sale or rent or does not take
place on the premises on wbich the sign
islocatoo.'
......~:::.::~~::::~;:_.:_:._---==~j
Bubd.S Changeable messafle si1{n: a messae:e that is not ocrmanentIv attached to the //
-1?~~~~_9,.__('!!!!!'!:~!"..t;!IJ.~.I!!!!.!i~'!g~ SifW :~!!!!Y_.~~~~_~g~~)!~!~.~.!~~..~J.i.~_~~__~_~~~!!!~.~~.~!'n__
product or promotes the sale of any product or service.
Subd. 7 Dvnamic Disolav: any characteristics of a shm that RODeaT to bave
movement or that aonear to chane:e. caused bv any method other than ohvsicallv
removing and replacing the silm or its components. whether the anparent movement
or chane:e is in the disolav. the sign structure itself.. or any other comoonent of the
si!!n. This includes a disolav that incoroorates a technoloflV or method allowine the
si!!n face to chane:e the imaRe without havine: to phvsicallv or mechanicallv renlace
the shm face or its comoonents. This also includes any rota tine:. revolvine.. movin!!.
flashin!!. blinkint!. oroiecting. or animated displav and anv disolav that incoroorates
rotatinlZ nanels. LED IilZhts manioulated throu!!h di!!ital innut. "dilZital ink" or any
other method or technololZv that allows the SiRD face to Dresent a series of ima!!cs or
displays.
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Snbd.8 Freestanding sign: a self-supporting sign usually held up by uprights
placed in the ground or any other base that is anchored to the ground.
Subd. 9 Grand ooeninf!: commencement of operation of a new business. For
purDoses of the ordinance. a Qrand oDenin!! is considered to occur if there is a
business name chanflc or chan!!:c in type of business or activity.
Subd.l0 Graphic sign: a sculpture attached to or sign painted directly on a wall
that is primarily symbolic or representational in nature and not alpha or numeric in
content or copy.
Subd. 11 llluminated sign: any sign, which has characters, letters, figures, designs
or outlines which is illuminated by an 3rtificiallight source.
Subd 12 Illtemal sign: Anv sien that is eenerallv IIot understandabie or readable
from nroperty other than where the shm is located. such as from adiacent Dropertv
or a ImbUe street. as determined bv the Zoninl! Administrator.
Subd. 13 Lighting, backlit: an illuminated sign where the light source which
illuminates the wall behind individual sign letters is hidden from view. The sign
letters are opaque in appear as a silhouette against the lighted surface.
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Snbd.14 Lighting, external: the sign is iIInminated by means of external light
fixtures directed at the sign.
Subd. 15 Lighting, internal: an illuminated sign having the source of illumination
located inside a translucent panel and is not directly visible.
Subd.16 Monument sign: a freestanding sign with its sign face mounted on the
ground or mounted on a base at least as wide as the sign and is less than 16 feet in
heigbt.
Subd.17 On-premise sign: a sign whose message is related to the property or the
activity and use occurring on the property on which the sign is located. On-premise
signs include multi-tenant identification signs that may advertise tenants on
different property provided such tenants are within the same approved PUD and
parking is shared between properties.
Subd.18 Outdoor advertisill1! si/!/l: any shm that is located outdoors and that
advertises a oroduct. business. service. event. or any other matter that is not
available. or does not take place. on the same oremises as the Sie:D. Outdoor
advertisiol! sie:ns are commonlv called billboards. An outdoor advertisin!! shm does
not include a sie:n that is not readilv understandable or readable from property
other than where the sit!D is located~ such as from adiacent property or a public
street. as determined by the zORine: administrator.
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Subd. 19 Permanent sign: any sign that is not temporary.
Subd. 20 Pole sign: a freestanding sign that is elevated off the ground by one or
more poles.
Subd.21 Portable sif!n: a temoorary shm with or without CODY and 2raohic that is
desie:llcd or intended to be moved or transported. Examoles of portable si!!:ns
include~ but are not limited to: sandwich signs: shms deshmed to be transported bv
trailer or on wheels: mounted on a vehicle for advertisine: purposes. when the
vehicle is parked and visible from public ri!!ht-of-wav. excent Si!!IlS identifvinf! a
business when the vehicle is beinl! used in the normal day-ta-day ooeration of that
business. A shm mav be a portable shm even if it has wheels removed. was desiened
without wheels. or is attached temoorarilv to the eround. a structure. or other shm.
Subd. 22 Projecting sign: a sign, other than a wall sign, that is attached to and
projects more than eighteen (18) inches from the building fa~ade.
Snbd. 23 Public sign: a traffic control sign in Minnesota State Statutes; any
identification sign installed in a public park by a public authority; and any other
identification, regulatory, or warning sign approved by the City Council for
installation on public land.
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Subd.24 Re-fadng: the process of replacing the sign copy, message, logo, or graphic
on a sign without altering or moving the structure to which the sign face is attached.
Subd. J.i. .l/(JoLsign.:.a. sIgllJI1"t .is.lllo.lJ.nt.e<l.o.n.1:.b.e.r()()foLa.l>lIil<iinK ()r.()Il.a.p",:ap~t.
wan that is.above tl1eJ().().flil1~..mmm__
Subd.26 Rotating sign: a sign or a portion of a sign which moves in a rotating
oscillating or similar manner other than changing signs.
Subd. 27 Service area canopy: open air roof-like structure that projects from the
wan of a building or is freestanding and is for the purpose of shielding equipment
and/or people from the elements; is often found covering service or gasoline station
islands.
Subd.28 Sign: any written message, pictorial presentation, number, illustration,
decoration, banner or other device that is used to announce, direct attention to,
identify, advertise or otherwise make anything known. The term "sign" shall not
include landscaping or the architectural embellishment of a building not intended to
communicate information. For purpose of maintenance or removal, the term '~sign"
shan also include frames and support structures.
Subd. 29 Sign area: the area in square feet of smallest rectangle, circle, or triangle
that contains the sign copy.
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/fD~leted: 24
/,/'
-l
,/"{ Deleted: below
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Subd. 30 Sign height: the distance measured perpendicular from the highest point
of the sign structure to lhe averae:e elevation of the nearest street. _
Suhd.31 Temporary sign: a sign designed to be displayed for a limited period of
time that is not permanently affixed to the land or to a structure.
Subd.32 Wall sign: a sign attached to or erected against an exterior wall surface of
a building or structure.
Subd. 33 Window sign: a sign mounted within the window area inside of a building,
applied to the window or fastened in a manner that is intended to be viewed from
outside the building.
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/ Deleted: the first floor elevation of
,/ the principles structure on the same
_/ \ parcel as the sign.
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1220 - Permit and Review Process
1220.01 Permit Reqnired. Except for those signs listed in Section 1230.01, no permanent or
temporary sign shall be erected, altered, reconstructed, maintained, or moved in the City
withont obtaining a sign permit from the City. The content of the message or speech
displayed on the sign shall not be considered when approving or denying a sign permit;
however, the content must be submitted to evaluate the sign copy area and to restrict
permanent off-premise signs. A separate sign application shall be required for each sign.
1220.02 Application Process. An application for a sign permit shall be on the City's official
-' Deleted: Community Development
sign application. Unless waived by the Citv..._~~~.~.~P.P.!~~!!!~~~.~-!J:~""_~~_~~_~~~.!!!~.ff!!!Q~J_~gn..._J::~/ i Di..ector or the Director's
"-. . Deleted: designee
information:
Subd.l Name, signature, address, and phone number of the property owner
(reqnired);
Snbd.2 Name, signatnre, address, and phone nnmber of the applicant (if different
than the property owner);
Snbd. 3 Parcel ID of the property;
Subd.4 A complete set of plans showing the necessary elevations, setbacks, size,
and details to fnlly and clearly represent the constrnction and place ofthe signs(s);
12-13
DRAFT Febrnary 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills Chapter 12 Sign Code
Subd. 5 Type of sign (wall, monument, pole, etc.);
Subd.6 Certification by the applicant(s) indicating the application complies with
all requirements of this Chapter;
Subd. 7 A separate building permit may also be required from the Building
Official for signs involving new or modified sign structures.
Subd.8 lethe aoolicant is not the orooerty owner. the aoplicant shall obtain
written oermission from the pronertv and orovide a CODY to the City prior to
aooroval of the oermit.
1220.03 Review Process. The City Planner shall approve or deny the sign permit
application in an expedited manner, no more that thirty (30) days from the receipt of the
completed application, including applicable fees. All permits not reviewed within thirty
(30) days shall be deemed approved. Anolicants shall be notilied in writine ifthe
application is denied. includin1! the reasons for denial. 'l.mm___mmmunnnm.....___ou__
1220.04 Appeals Process. Appeals shall be made to the Planning Commission in writing
within Iifteen (15) days of the conlirmed delivery of the denial letter for the sign permit
application. The Planning Commission shall hold a hearing as soon as practicable but not
more than 45 days after confirmed receiot of the aopeal to review the appeal and make a
Jecommendation to the City Council. The City Council.shall review the Plannin:!! mnmnnnn'/'
12 -14
DRAFT February 19, 2008
Deleted: If the permit is denied, the
City Planner shall prepare a written
Dotice of denial that is postmarked
within thirty (30) days of the accepted
application. The notice shall be sent
via United Stated Post Office mail, with
delivery confirmation, to the applicant
_~_~.~~_~~dress on the applicati~~..:...__.~
:(o-el;ted: determination --------.--1
,/, Deleted: of the appeal within thirty
:' / (30) days. Appeals of the Planning
, Commission decision shall be made in
writiug to the City Council within I
fifteen (15) days of the Planning ~
Commission decisiou. The City
Council
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Commission's recommendation as soon as oracticable but not more than 4S days after the
Plannin!! Commission's recommendation....-r:om
1220.05 Fees. Sign permit fees and the imponndment fee shall be set by the City Conncil by
ordinance on an annual basis.
1220.06 Inspection & Enforcement.
Snbd.l Inspection Anthority. All signs for which a permit is reqnired shall be
snbject to inspection by the&ili:.'.":l1oJ.s.h.er.eI:JLalJtit()rI.ze.dJ.o.e.~~e,:.np()ll.a.nYmm
property of premise to ascertain whether the provisions of this ordinance are being
obeyed. Such entrance shall be made during business hours unless an emergency
exists.
Snbd. 2 Signs in Disrepair. The.Qtt.D1ay."r""r.tite..relll.o'CaLof.lllly"sigll.titll!.is.
not maintained in accordance with the maintenance provisions of this ordinance.
Upon failure to comply with such notice within the time specified in such order, the
City Council may declare the sign to be a public nuisance,jmoound it,.~~<<i_~~_~~~~...
the cost of removal to the sign owner or the sign owner's agent.
Snbd.3 Imponndment of Signs on Pnblic Property or Within Pnblic Right-of-
way. The City _~~YL~~_~!!Y-_!!~t:.~~~L~!!!!~~! .~~ti_~~-,J~P-~':l"...._~_~}_g!!~.~_~.~!)~!!y_~ .~~~~_
installed on pnblic property, within a pnblic right-of way, or within a pnblic
12 -15
DRAFT Febrnary 19, 2008
Deleted: bold a hearing to review andl
make'll
~nnn_n_Page Breaknnnn--.1
a determination of the appeal within I
thirty (30) days.
Deleted: Appeals of the City Council
decision shall be made to District
Court within fifteen (15) days of the
City Council decision.
Deleted: Community Development
~~~.~~tor or the Dire~~~.~~_s designee
Deleted: Community Development
Director or t~~_ Director's designee -.J
//'{ Deleted: remove it
_...._-_.._.._~
Deleted: Community Develo~~e~nt I
Director or the Director's designee )
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
easement that are in violation oftbis Chapter. The sign owner or their agent may
retrieve an imponnded sign subject to the following rn1es:
A. Payment of an impoundment release fee. Any subsequent
impoundment(s), within one calendar year, for a particular property or
sign owner will reqnire payment of donble the initial imponndment
release fee.
B.
Any impounded sign may be retrieved from the impound area within
three (3) business days ofthe impoundment or the.Q!x.l11a.r.<!isl'_os_e_oLm"/
Deleted: Community Development J
Director or the_.~_~~ector's designee ...
it. The impound area can be located bv contactine Citv Hall. Any cost
incurred by the City for disposal of an impounded sign may be assessed
to the sign owner or the sign owner's agent.
c.
The Cityrt"J'aI1J1"v"_110_(1llligatI011_t()_n_otif.Y_llP_r()l'em:_~":l1e..that)t_ltlls
,,/__{ Deleted:,
___ -- Deleted: the Community
Development Director, or the
Director's designee
impounded a sign.
/{ Deleted: ,
D. The CitYJh_aJJ_!!~t~.~.!teJ~J!~~~~J~r a!!y._c).J!~~gc: to _anJ!!!I!~.l;.l.I).de~t~!g~'m ~'.:::~.- Deleted: the Community
Development Director, or the
Director's designee
12 -16
DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1230 - Exempt and Prohibited Signs
1230.01 Exemptions. The following signs shall not require a permit issued by the City.
These exemptions, however, shall not relieve the owner of the sign from the responsibility
of its maintenance and its compliance with the provisions of this Chapter or any other law
or ordinance regulating the same.
Subd. 1 Official public notices or warning signs required by local, countv, state or
federal law, including but not limited to traffic control and other regulatory purpose
signs;
Subd. 2 ~igns of any size containing nOD-commercial speech may be posted from
August 1 in any general election year until ten (10) days following the general
election and thirteen (13) weeks prior to any special election until ten (10) days
following the special election provided that the signs are in compliance with
Minnesota Statutes. These non-commercial shIns shall be olaced in accordance with
Section 1250.03 Subd 2. 3. and 4.
/{ Deleted: four
Subd.3 Address identification not exceeding four ~_squ"r_eJ".et)I1_11r".aJ:o,:_ellcl1_ n.-:<'-1 Deleted: 4
structure or portion of a structure with an assigned address. Street identification
numbers are reQuired in all Sie:ll districts and should be clearly visible from the
street. Address shms do not reduce oermitted shm area;
12 - 17
DRAFT February 19, 2008
Subd. 4 Resideutial properties in Sign Districts 1 and 3 shall be allowed up to
City of Arden Hills Chapter 12 Sign Code
eight (8) square feet of signage provided that a single sign is no larger than six (6)
square feet, the signs are not illuminated, and freestanding signs are at least five~
feet from any property line.
Subd. 5 Temporary off-premise signs as designated in Section 1250.03;
,/l~eleted: Auxil~~~~~__-.J
Subd.6 ..Internal siens ..r.sigl1s_",itltiI1_aJ)lIil<linK]l~o~i<le_dJ_h"tJltesign}snn()t____ __n_ r=;-:---'-
/1 Deleted: is
visible from the public right-ofwway, adjacent properties, andt!!.t.~.~~JJJ).!~!!!~~!.~h..._...//
'J
and,
Subd. 7 \Vindow silms that are inside of a buildin2 shall not reauire a oermit but
shall be in accordance with Section J 240.02 Table 1.
Subd. 8 Any sign display or device allowed under this section may contain, in lieu
of other copy, any otherwise lawful noncommercial message that does not direct
attention to a business operated for profit, or to a commodity service for sale, and
that complies with the size, height and lighting requirements of this Chapter.
1230.02 Prohibited Signs. The following permanent and temporary signs shall be
prohibited in all sign districts:
Subd.l Signs with moving, swinging,l~_~~!y'I_~E~ or rotatin1!.p_~.~~.L___mmmm
,//'-{ Deleted: or
12 -18
DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills Chapter 12 Sign Code
/{ Deleted: Flashing or scrolling signs
Snbd. 2 Dvnamic disolav siens. !,x_cel't",l1e_n_ll~_e<!JOjlE()v_id!'l'ri!"ll~!I)'_till1e_lll1<!____//
temperatnre and does not to exceed twenty-five (25) percent ofthe permitted area of
the sign face;
Subd.3 Roof signs, a sign mounted on the roof of a building or on a parapet wall,
Subd. 4 Projecting signs, a sign, other than a wall sign, that is attached to and
projects from the building fa~ade.
Subd. 5 Any sigu not constructed, wired, assembled, attached or supported in
conformance with applicable building or other codes and regulations;
Subd. 6 Signs in the public right-of-way except as provided for in Section 1250.03,
Minnesota Statutes, or allowed by the agency regulating the right-of-way;
/(D;!eted: or ----
Subd.7 Signs attached to public utility poles, trees, street signs,;'it()l'lig.h~s,...!!.L.______/"
-_._._.~
I
fences;
PermanentiJutdoor advertisinlI shIn, iJ.1.~!~~~~g_!?!H~~~.:r:~~i..
__ //,..~~_d: off.premis~_~~gns
Subd.8
,
,
,
-->
Subd.9 Sie:DS that obstruct the vision of oedestrians~ cvclists. or motorists
traveling on or enterine: DubHe streets
12 - 19
DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Subd.10 Si!!os which are deshmed to resemble official traffic signs except shms
which are used to control traftic on orivate Dronerty:
/,/'1 Deleted: 9
Snbd.l1.__An)'_sigl1_n_ot.sl'-e"itic"IIY'p"rlllit.tecl_il1_!lti~_(_h"l!!~_r, ._______._______________________.
/1 Deleted: '\I
l'~nn_nn_n___n__nn.n...nn..nn..n....n.........uu,//" ~
12 -20
DRAFT Febrnary 19, 2008
Section 1240 - General Sign Regnlations
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
1240.01 Regnlation hy Sign District. For the pnrpose of regnlating signs, the following nine
District Descrintion
1 All residential DroDerties zoned R-l or R-2.
2 All non-residential nses in the R-l throngh R-4 zoning
districts.
3 All residential nronerties zoned R-3 and R-4.
All properties fronting on Connty Road E east of Highway
4 51 excent for those oroocrties with frontal!c on Lexinl!ton
Avenue.
S All properties fronting on Lexington Avenne Sonth of
Interstate 694.
All properties zoned for commercial or industrial use
6 frontiDg on Lexington Avenne north ofInterstate 694,
properties along Highway 96, and properties located in the
B-1 zonina district.
All properties in the I-Flex, Gateway Bnsiness, or other
7 commercial or industrial district without frontage on a
roadwav desi~nated above.
8 All Dronerties zoned Neighborhood Bnsiness.
9 The-m.rts of the TCAAP area not frontin~ on Hi~hwav 96.
sign districts are adopted:
1240.02 Permitted Sign Type, Area, Height, and IIInmination by Sign District. All signs
shall conform to the applicable standards in Table One: Sign Standards by Sign District.
The following provisions shall also apply:
Snbd.l Wall Sign. Wall signs shall not extend more than eighteen (18) inches
from the wall they are attached to.
12 - 21
DRAFT Febrnary 19, 2008
i
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n___--------.J
---.--------..,
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City of Arden Hills Chapter 12 Sign Code
Subd. 2 Freestanding Pole or Monument Signs.
/{ Deleted: ~
A. ~~_~.~~~.~1!~!!_C!~_~J!"~~..~!~!1_~.i}~.g_~~g!!.shall be p_~~~iJ!~.~.~!!.~_I!Y-..~!~~_...._.u _~'_<~-~{ Deleted: is
except in cases where properties front more than one Dublic street.
/{ Deleted: with
B. For properties Jhat front ll1.o,:eJ_h'!Il_~_Il_e_public ~~.r~_et'_lln__a<l<l!ti!,n_a'--mnj'/
/{ Deleted: on
freestanding sign may be permitted lor each~_~!'~~~JI.:~~tp_!,Qy"i.c:t.~!-L!~~_~nn~-:'<--{ Deleted: the other
/l Deleted: the
.each additional freestandin!! sig!! does..~Q!_~_~~~~~):.l.~fJ1!~_~!~_-=.~X.t!I_~_mm_';::~--(D~I~ted: d~~;- .-....---
_,~-.;ignage
maximum ~~!,~~_~!!Q~.t:~X~_I.:..~_~!'~~~.!~..I!_lJ!!!g_~!g~.i_~_ the Jmderlvinl! _.........<._.:_..{ Deleted: assigned
sign district.
/{ Deleted: Ira
C. The sit!" area of a~!'~~~_!~}~!~.i.l!g_~!g!!.~~~~I.~!!!y.}J.~.~_~!~~J_~t~~.~.~!~g__~!!~_m.J::~~'- Deleted: is visible from two sides, the
area
side of the sie:n. If the two sides are different sizes. the lare:cr side shall
be used for dcterminin2: si2:n area.... mm
Deleted: provided that the content is
identical 00 both sides.
with the copy resting on and supported by a solid base of brick or rock-
Deleted: <#>Freestaodiog signs with
two visible sides shall be calculated as
two separate signs if the content is not
identical.'
~
Design off
.!L.....Er"~s_ta_ndillg_sign_siIlpis1:.rict5_s_h_a[[J)e_Ill!'IlI1_D1_ellt_tYJle_gr"IlIl<lsigllsuu
faced block in a color similar to or complimentary to the main structure
on the site. The material of the base must extend at least one~halfway
up the sides of the sign face.
]!;. Freestanding signs shall be located at least five (5) feet from any property
line and shall not project over the property line. However, if the bottom
edge ofthe sign copy is not located at least ten (10) feet above the ground
12-22
DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
with supports that do not encroach on the clear vision of approaching
traffic, the sign shall be located to preserve the",le",:~i~i,,"_are_a'_'__mm
Snbd.3 Each edge of a service area canopy facing a street is permitted twenty-five
(25) square feet of sign area in addition to all other sign area permitted on the site.
Such signage may be illuminated externally, internally, or backlit, but no other part
of the face of the canopy shall be illuminated.
Subd. 4 No part of an awning or sun canopy ..hall b_eJe_ssJI1,,"_eigl1t(8He~t_oE_
greater than twelve (12) feet above grade. Any sign area on the awning, if
illuminated, will be deducted from the permitted wall sign area. The fabric or
material used for the awning or canopy must be opaque and no internal
illumination is permitted.
Subd.5 Adult Use Signs. In addition to this Chapter, all adult use oriented signs
shall comply with the sign requirements in the Adult Use Ordinance. Where any
provisions of this Chapter conllict with the Adult Use Chapter, the provision that is
more stringent shall be applied.
1240.03 Chan!!eable Messa!!e Si!!n. No more than thirty-five (35) percent of the actual copv
or e:raohic area of a permitted shm for a non-residential si2"n district shall be caoable of
chane-in!! messae:es. The remainder of the shm must not have the canabilitv to chan1!e
meSS3QeS even if not used. Dvnamic disolavs shall be orohibited.
12-23
DRAFT February 19, 2008
,/{ Deleted: (ollowing
_____~".::--- Deleted: The clear vision area shall
be an area within a triangle that is
measured along the edge of the road
starting at tbe intersection of two roads
(public or private) and extending thirty
(30) feet in each directio'n from the I
intersection and then a line connectingJ!
these two end points.,
<>p>
-- .
.--[Deleted: may --
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City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1250 -- Special Provisions
1250.01 Allocation of Permitted Sign Type and Area and Provisions for Mnlti- Tenant
Developments and Sites. In mnlti-tenant bnildings or sites, tbe permitted sign area and
sign types, except for permitted freestanding signs, may be installed by each individnal
business establishment that has exclusive use of some portion of the street or otherwise
primary level of the bnilding and direct access to the ontside. Tenants located on the street
or otherwise primary level in a center with a common mall or atrium shall be considered to
have direct access to the outside for the purpose of this section.
Snbd. 1 The management and ownership of any bnsiness establishment proposing
to install signage must be separate and distinct from the management and
ownership of any other establishment in the same building or on the same building
lot. Each estahlishment mnst be separated from all other establishments by party
walls [as per the International Bnilding Codel having no openings or passages.
Snbd. 2 Signage for establishments occnpying a mnlti-tenant bnilding or site, but
not located on the street or primary level ofthe building must be provided from the
allocation of sign area and type to the occupants of the street or primary level of the
building as determined bv the orooertv owner.
Subd: 3 For freestandine: sie:ns~ a multi~tenant Darcel shall be considered one Darcel
and freestandine siens shall be permitted in accordance with.section 1240.02. III_tl1en/"
12-25
DRAFT February 19, 2008
Deleted: Dnly one freestanding sign
is permitted for each development or
parcel whether occupied by a single or
by multiple tenants.
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
case of mnltiple tenant sites,jhel'eEl1litt"dJ~"e~_~~_n!!i!!g_sign2UJ!.shalllJ_~_!l.llocate<l_
-,-
'-:-"
Deleted: , the permitted freestanding
sign area in Chapter 1240,02 "Table
One Standards by Sign District" for
Deleted: single
Deleted: must
Deleted: of the site
by the Dronertv owner J!~~_~jt!~.~~!!~~.~~~
1250.02 Temporary On-premise Signs. Except as provided for in 1250.03, all other
temporary signs shall require an approved sign permit prior to nIacin!! the shm and shall
conform to the following:
/{ Deleted: r~.~:.~.~~_._._.
Subd. 1 Temporary signs, includingJ>_,!!!~~I.-=_~~g!!~~~tt.:~_~~~.'::'~..d?~!1.J..1.~~!~_,_~!!!!!!~!~Jm..~I:::~'-{ Deleted: and - --.--.
/{ Deleted: be
balloons, inflatables or other similar object with a commercial message, may ~.~//
J
I
,
I
a temoorarv sign on three (3) occasions ocr calendar year with a maximum of ten
(0) days for each occasion. The oermits may be used consecutivelv. Temoorarv , Deleted: permitted for a total of
.: thirty (30) days per calendar year;
window shms that are inside of a buildinl! shall not be subiect to these time or ,/, Deleted: ~ 1
.: .: SuM. 2 Temporary signs shall be J
:',. secured and well.constructed so as not
permit limits but shall be in accordance with Section 120.02 "Table One Standards .: / to create a hazard to pedestrians or
:',' vehicles.~
bv Sil!n District." Temoorarv shm oermits are nontransferable. 't': ___mnnnmmm ____n./ ,/ :fO-;leted: 3 -.-.-.-.-.-""''''--- ---"'-'-'-J
:' ,:, Deleted: T 1
't':.u ____n___nnn..nu___ ___nnnnn..n._ __nn__n...n.._..._________n.nn.nn..___ __nn__nn....uu__ _n_J/ /.':'(, Deleted: all i
" :,' , Deleted: s .1
Snbd.2. Sinele occnoant oarcels.__ nn_n_n___n nn_n__nnn__nm n/./~;}~f!::: ;~L;;~~~.:~l
A. Only one temoorarv si!!n shaH be oermitted at a time. Th~_~!~_~..~.f.t!:Le _m/ ,(/ ,{ Deleted: Chapter 1
temporary sign!!l:Ss_h_~IL!!oLeJ<c"e!!_~!l.e_""ILoJjhe oermitted sien area.as ---l/"('l Deleted: 'P<<ffi'"," ,ig'", !
:/ ,'. Deleted: a given J
allowed in.8ection 12~Q~~~.~~!'!!~!~_Q~~_~~!!!!~~}:!!~_~~.~iKI!.~i_~!!t~!~~J~__-~__1'__-_-_-__-_ -_ --_-_-,',':.,'.,'..:,.,..,.,,./ :::,~::t:~::i;~t'::':r.:~~~::;:' 'of I
particular sign type inihe underlvine: sie:n d__i_s_t_!'J_c_t__;___._____.____ 1240.02 "Table One Standards by Sign
- - - nn_n..._______ District"forapermanentsignofa
particular sign type in a given district;'\I
,
'L.nu nnn_n_.n..nu nnn_unnn...._u _n___.nnn...__.. n___nnnn........ n____un__un Subd.5 A temporary sign shall not be i
illuminated. !
~. Freestandinf!..~~_~p'~!,.~~y.~}_g~~_.s..!t_~.I.l.~~~Y_~~.P_t;~~.i~~~.!~_~_~~!~~~!~.~~~!~_ _.. _._.___{ Deleted: Subd. 6 .
-------i Deleted: Freestanding
freestanding signs are permitted as.allowed i~_.8ection 1~~9~Q~.'.'~~J~!~~Q~~.m...:_m_{ Deleted: listed
-"--'~_~~ted: Chapter ___..
I
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12 - 26
DRAFT Febrnary 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Standards by Sign District,.nlr~_~~_nl'~!:~inKfI:e"st"l1"il1g.sJgI1Js_,,!~_e,,"'y_il1___
.' Deleted: "fora permanent sign ofa
" particular sign type in a given district
/1 Deleted: adjacent
place, the temporary freestanding sign shall be attached to or J1ear t"Jl1en___nn/..
existing freestanding sign;
A. Each individual business establishment that has exclusive use of some
/,{ Deleted: 7
nmnnm~~::~:-.- Deleted: In m
,.-.:::-- Deleted: buildings
"'1 Deleted: or s~t_~2_____.
Subd. ~_MIlIti:te_n_al1t.JlarceIs"___m
,
_.J
I}ortion of the street or otherwise primary level of the buildinl! and direct
access to the outside aualities for the number of temporary sitIns allowed in
Section 1250.02 Subd 1.
B. Te_DlP,,!:a!:y wall sig-",!~.~aXIJ"p_e!:l1litte"_f()r_"a_cI1Jl1<1i_vi"lI,,tb_u.sin_ess__n_/.
,/{ Deleted: one t
establishment that has exclusive use of some portion of the street or __...__...__.__ .._..
" Deleted: provided that all other l
h . . I I f h b 'Id' d d' h'd '1'1 /' requiremenls of Chapter 1250.02 are
ot erWlse primary eve 0 t e Ul mg an lrect access to t e outSl ~...._.!!L./ met and permission is granted by the
property owner
total temDorarv wall shm area for each tenant shall not~xceed one half of the ._..___{ Deleted:
Ilermitted oermanent wall shm area as allowed in Section 1240.02 "Table
One Standards by Shm District." Each business shall not have more than
_....._.....~~-_...]
Deleted: Tile location of the
temporary sign shall be determined by
tile Community Development Director
ortheDircctor'sdesignee.
one wall or freestandiu!! temoorarv si!!n at a time"mmmmmm
........../,/'
c. One temoorary (reestandin!! sien mav be Dermitted for each individual
business establishment that has exclusive use of some portion of the street or
otherwise orimarv level of the buildine: and direct access to the outside. The
total area of an temoorarv frecstandin!! si!!nat!c for the Darcel shall not
exceed one half of the oermitted area of permanent freestandine sit!nal!e for
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
the parcel as allowed in Section 1240.02. The total permitted temporary
freestandiu!! sie-n area shall be allocated bv the orODcrtv owner or their
designee antone its tenants.
Subd.4 New businesses with t!rand openings are eli!!ible for one additional
temporary sit!n of any tyoe oermitted in the underlvimr SiRD district with an
aporoved oermit. The shm may be in place for UP to thirty (30) days orovided all
other reQuirements in this section are met aud the reauired oermits are obtained.
This eIit!ibilitv shall exoire six months after the business oocns.
Subd. 5 Buildiul!s or unreels with space for sale or lease may obtain a temporary
shm permit for one temoorarv wall or monument sie:n that does not expire until
seven (7) days after the buiIdine: or Darcel is leased or sold. A wall sil!11 shall not
exceed twenty-five (25) SQuare feet in size and shall be used in olace of a permanent
wall sifm. A monument shm shall not exceed fifteen (15) SQuare feet in size and shall
be attached or immediately adiacent to an exiting monument sign. All other
provisions in this section shall apply.
Subd.6 A temporary sign shall not exceed the height limits listed in Section 1240.02
"Table One Standards by Sign District" for a permanent sign of a particular sign
type in a given district, including inflatable signs and balloons;
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Snbd. 7 Temporary signs shall be secured and well-constructed so as not to create a
hazard to pedestrians or vehicles.
Subd. 8 A temporary sign shall not be illuminated.
Subd.9 The nermitted location of all temnorarv siens are subiect to chanQ"e as
determined bv the Citv in order to nrotect the public health, safetv, welfare. and
aesthetics.
Subd.10 Temporary banuer signs for athletic fields at Mounds View Higb
School, Bethel University, and Nortbwestern College shall be exempt from the
provisions of this section and shall comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter
1250.04.
1250.03 Temporary Off-premise Signs.
Subd. 1 Up to five (5) freestanding, temporary, off-premise signs may be placed in
the City right-of-way or on private property provided that the signs:
A. Are four (4) square feet or less in size, less than four (4) feet high; and
at least five (5) feet from the edge of the road;
B. Are not illuminated;
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills Chapter 12 Sign Code
C. Are within one mile of the property for which the signs are advertising
(this provision does not preempt the sign regnlations for neighboring
communities);
D. Displayed no more than three consecutive days in any seven day period.
Snbd. 2 Jhe.sigll.o.':VlleE.siIall.o])t.aill.p'eEIlli.ssillll.frllJ11.tiIe.PEop"rtxo",.n"r.llll.",iIic.h.. .
the sign is placed. .Failure to obtain permission may result in removal orihe sieo.
Snbd. 3. If the sien is placed in Citv rieht-of-wav. the sien owner shall obtain
permission from the property owner that shares a property line with the adioinine:
right-or-way where the shm is located. Failure to obtain oermission may result in
removal orthe si!!n...mm__
Snbd. 4 The City of Arden Hills shall not be responsible for damage to any signs
placed in the.J:igl1t~.()r-.':VllY'.
Subd. 5 Off-premise signs placed in Ramsey County or State of Minnesota right-of-
way shall be subject to Ramsey Connty and State of Minnesota regulations. Failure
to obtain permission from the appropriate ae:cncv may result in removal of the shm.
12 - 30
DRAFT February 19, 2008
/'~~~-~-
__J
Deleted: jf not in the public right.of- i
way. J
///~~ci~;--
"l
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
1250.04 Temporary Banner Signs for Athletic Fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel
University, and Northwestern College. Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel
University, and Northwestern College may be permitted to have temporary banner signs
attached to the fences of their athletic fields provided that such signage faces the field of
play so that the impact of the signage is directed only to those utilizing the field or watching
the sporting event, and not surrounding property owners. In addition, to the greatest
extent possible such signage shall not obstruct sightlines to the athletic field for those
watching the sporting event from the bleachers or other designated viewing areas. The
content of temporary banner signage shall comply with the sponsorship sign regulations as
established by Mounds View High School, Bethel University, or Northwestern College for
their respective athletic fields. The City Administrator or Administrator's designee shall
determine if the signage is visible from a public roadway or from property outside of
Monnds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College. If found to be
visible, the signs shall comply with the following size limitations and shall follow the sign
permit process as described below:
Subd. 1 Temporary banner signs shall not exceed fifty (50) square feet each.
Subd. 2 The temporary banner sign shall not exceed a massing of over nine
hnndred and sixty (960) square feet in one area or a total of two thousand (2000)
square feet.
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Snbd. 3 Temporary banner sign shall not be displayed for more than ninety (90)
consecntive days or more than one hundred and eighty (180) days during the
calendar year.
Subd. 4 Sign permits shall not be required for individual banner signs but shall be
required where a new group massing of signage is requested.
Subd. 5 The applicant shall demonstrate compliance with the provisions of this
section (including but not limited to: the dimensions of individual banner signs, the
dimensions of that group of banner signs, and the total square feet of temporary
banner signs).
1250.05 Permanent Scoreboard Signs for Athletic Fields at Mounds View High School,
Bethel University, and Northwestern College. Athletic fields at Mounds View High School,
Bethel University, and Northwestern College may be permitted to have permanent
scoreboard signage at their athletic fields that is clearly secondary to the overall
appearance of the scoreboard. Such signage shall face the field of play so that the impact of
the signage is directed only to those utilizing the field or watching the sporting event, and
not surrounding property owners. The content of scoreboard signage shall comply with
the sponsorship sign regulations as established by Mounds View High School, Bethel
University, and Northwestern College, for their respective athletic fietds. The City
Administrator or the Administrator's designee shall determine if the signage is visible from
a public roadway or from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Snbd. 2 Since the scoreboard signs are permanent in natnre, the applicant shall be
required to obtain sign permit approval prior to the installation of any new
scoreboard sponsorship signs; at such time the applicant shall demonstrate
compliance with the provisions of this section.
University, and Northwestern College. If fonnd to be visible, the signs shall comply with
the following size limitations and shall follow the sign permit process as described below:
Snbd.l Scoreboard signage shall not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the total
scoreboard area, nor shall anyone scoreboard sign exceed fifteen percent (15%) of
the total scoreboard area.
1250.06 Permanent Signs for Athletic Fields at Mounds View Higb School, Bethel
University, and Northwestern College. Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel
University, and Northwestern College may be permitted to have permanent signage at their
respective athletic fields. Such signage shall be permanent in nature and shall not be lit by
a direct lighting source. Signs may be an entrance gate style sign, signage affixed directly
to a press box/grandstand, or signage included on the scoreboard. Such signage shall be
constructed of durable materials (finished metal, finished wood, plastic). The City
Administrator or Administrator's designee shall determine if the signage is visible from a
public roadway or from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel University,
and Northwestern College. If found to be visible, the signs shall comply with the following
size limitations and shall follow the sign permit process as described below:
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Snbd. 1 The signage area of entrance gate signs shall not exceed thirty (30) sqnare
feet, the signage area of press box/grandstand signage shall not exceed eighty (80)
square feet, and scoreboard field naming signage shall not exceed forty (40) percent
of the total scoreboard area.
Subd. 2 The cumulative total of permanent signage shall not exceed two hundred
(200) square feet.
Subd. 3 Since the signage would be permanent in nature, the applicant shall be
required to obtain a sign permit approval prior to the installation of any new
signage; at such time the applicant shall demonstrate compliance with the
provisions of this section.
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1260 - Sign Standard Adjnstments
1260.01 Sign Standard Adjustments. Adjustments to the requirements and standards for
the height, number, type, lighting, area:! and/or location of a sign or signs established by
/1 Deleted: through the
this Chapter may be approved.with a _~_i~~J~I!!IlJt~YJ~~ or a Planned Unit DevetoDment __m__/...
process as descrihed for in Section 1320 and 1355 of the Zonin!! Code. This Drovision shall
not be used to nermit dynamic disolav shma!!c. In order to aoorove any sit!" standard
/t Deleted: i!.t~~.".__._.__._._,__ ._". .~
adiustment. thef~!!~~!!!gf!"J!~~i.~.~r~~~~.'.!_~_I.:'_~~bd. 2 shall be satisfiedL~f..1.~.~_~~.J..1.<<:~t:~.~~_I.:'Y-._{(~~-j Deleted: l
~ l Deleted: qualifying 1
criteria of Subd. 3 shall be satisfied:... _mmm_____nmnmmm.m___uuu____ _ ___ m_ ___________-..-___...______.{ Deleted:, are met: ]
Subd.1 There are site conditions which require a sign adjustment to allow the sign
to be reasonably visible from a street immediately adjacent to the site;
Subd.2 The sign adjustment will allow a sign of exceptional design or a styte that
will enhance the area or that is more consistent with the architecture and design of
the site;
Subd.3 The sign adjustment will not result in a sign that is inconsistent with the
purpose of the zoning district in which the property is located or the current land
use.
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1270 - Maintenance Repair
1270.01 Maintenance and Repair. All signs shall be kept in good repair and free from
peeling paint, rust, damaged or rotted supports, framework or other material, broken or
missing faces or missing letters. Any structure from which a sign has been moved or
removed shall be repaired with materials and/or painted or stained to match the existing
background.
Subd. 1 Activities considered normal maintenance and repair and not requiring a
sign or building permit shall include activities such as replacing or repairing lamps,
ballasts, transformers, trim, sign fasteners, nuts, or washers; painting the pole of
freestanding signs; and painting the cabinet of freestanding signs or building signs.
Subd. 2 Activities not considered normal maintenance and repair that shall require
a sign permit from the City shall include:
A. Replacing the sign copy. excent for the text on a chanf!eable mess aile
sif!u.
B. Removing the sign for the repair of the cabinet or any part thereof.
C. Changes made to the size, height or bulk of the sign or addition of
illumination
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden HilIs Chapter 12 Sign Code
D Changes in poles, structural supports, bases or shrouds, footings or
anchor bolts, moving the sign to a new location, or replacement of the
interior or exterior cabinet frame, except the sign face.
Subd. 3. A building permit may be required for any signs involving the construction
of or changes to a sign structure and/or electrical connections as determined by the
Building Official
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Section 1280 - Non-Conforming Signs
1280.01 Non-conforming Signs. It is the intent of this Chapter that non-conforming signs
shall not be enlarged or expanded, nor be used as grounds for adding other signs or uses
prohibited elsewhere in the same district. It is fnrther the intent of this Chapter to permit
legal non-conforming signs to remain provided that such signs are safe, maintained so as
not to be nnsightly, and have not been abandoned or removed snbject to the following
provisions:
Subd.l A legal non-conforming sign may be continued throuf!h repair.
renlacement. restoration. maintenance. or imurovcment but shall not be exnanded
or moved to a new locatio~~_mmmnmmnmnmnmmmu__m.m______
____________n_nn'/
Subd. 2 If the use of the non-conforming sign or sign structure is discontinued for a
period of one (1) year, the sign or sign structure shall not be reconstructed or used
except in conformity with the provisions of this Chapter;
Snbd.3 Should such non-conforming sign or sign structure be damaged or
destroyed by any means to an extent greater than fifty (50) percent of its market
value or structure and all required permits for its reconstruction have Dot been
applied for within one-hundred eighty (180) days of when the sign or sign structure
was damaged, it shall not be reconstructed or used except in conformity with the
provisions of this Chapter;
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DRAFT February 19, 2008
Deleted: may be repaired, replaced,
or maintailJed but shall not be
enlarged,moved,or altered in a way
that increases its non-conformity
City of Arden Hills
Chapter 12 Sign Code
Subd. 4 Should such sign or sign strllcture be permanently moved for any reason
for any distance, it shall thereafter conform to the regulations for the sign district in
which it is located after it is moved;
Snhd. 5 An existing sign devoted to a nse not permitted hy the Section 1320, Zoning
Ordinance, in the zoning district in which it is located shall Dot be enlarged,
expanded or moved except in changing the sign to a sign permitted in the sign
district in which it is located;
Subd. 6 When a building or use loses its nonconforming status, all signs devoted to
the strncture or use shall he removed and all signs painted directly on the structure
shall be repainted in a neutral color or a color which will harmonize with the
structure;
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DRAFT February 19, 2008