HomeMy Public PortalAbout1991_08_13_O033 'l'he TSwn of
Leesburg,
Virginia
ORDINANCE NO.
PRESENTED August 13, 1991
91-0-33 ADOPTED August 13~ 1991
AN ORDINANCE: ADOPTING A COMPREHENSIVE REVISION TO ARTICLE 10 (SIGN
REGULATIONS), OF THE LEESBURG ZONING ORDINANCE.
WHEREAS, public necessity, general welfare, and good zoning practice require the evaluation
of existing ordinances to ensure that they continue to address the needs of the community; and
WHEREAS, a comprehensive amendment to Article 10 (Sign Regulations) of the Leesburg
Zoning Ordinance was initiated on December 12, 1990; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the
comprehensive amendments to the sign regulations on April 11, 1991; and
WHEREAS, the composition of an Ad Hoc Sign Ordinance Committee was established by
Resolution 91-127 on June 11, 1991 to analyze the aesthetic values of the sign regulations and
recommend any additional changes that will protect the appearance of the Town; and
WHEREAS, the Ad Hoc Sign Ordinance Committee provided a public forum to obtain
comments from the citizens of Leesburg; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing by the Town Council on July 23, 1991 was held to receive any
additional comments:
THEREFORE, ORDAINED by the Council of the Town of Leesburg in Virginia as follows:
The existing Article 10 (Sign Regulations), of the Leesburg Zoning Ordinance is hereby repealed,
and is replaced with a new Article 10 (Sign Regulations) as follows:
ARTICLE 10. SIGN REGULATIONS
Section 10A-1. PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose of this Article is to regulate the size, location, height and construction of all signs placed
for public observance; to protect the public health, safety, convenience and general welfare; to facilitate
the creation of a convenient, attractive and harmonious community; to protect property values; and to
further the urban design and economic development objectives of the Town Plan. To these ends, these
regulations are intended to promote signs that are:
(1)
Compatible with the landscape/streetscape and architecture of surrounding buildings,
including historic sites and structures;
(2) Legible and appropriate to the activity to which they pertain;
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(3) Not distracting to motorists; and
(4) Constructed and maintained in a structurally sound and attractive condition.
Section 10A-2. APPLICABILITY
These sign regulations shall apply to all signs erected within the Town of Leesburg following the effective
date of this Ordinance.
Section 10A-3. SIGN PERMIT REQUIRED
Except as provided herein, no sign shall be erected, installed, used, altered, relocated, replaced or
reconstructed until a Sign Permit has been issued and approved by the Board of Architectural Review
if applicable. For the purpose of this Ordinance, all signs are considered accessory uses and, unless
specifically qualified, shall be located on the same lot with the principal use to which they pertain.
Section 10A-4. SPECIAL DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of these sign regulations, unless the context otherwise requires, the following terms shall
have the meanings established below:
Animated Sign. Signs which involve the use of motion, rotation, or the appearance of motion.
Awning/Canoov Sign. A sign placed directly on or attached to the surface of an awning or canopy.
Banner. Cloth, paper, balloons or material of any kind intended to attract attention. Governmental flags
or symbolic flags of religious, charitable, public or non-profit organizations shall not be considered
banners.
Billboard Sign. See "Off-premises sign."
Changeable Cow Sign. A sign or part of a sign that is designed so that characters, letters or
illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or surface of the sign.
Change of Use. Any use which substantially differs from the previous use of a building or land.
Construction Sign. A temporary sign identifying those engaged in construction of any building site.
Directional Sign. An on-premises sign designed to guide vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic by using such
words as "Entrance', "Exit", "Parking", "One Way" or similar directional instruction, but not including any
advertising message.
Directory Sign. A sign on which the names and locations of occupants or the use of a building or group
of buildings is given.
Flashing Sign. A sign used for identification, direction, advertising or promotion that includes lights
which flash, blink, or turn on and off intermittently.
Gasoline Station Signs. Signs permitted by Section 10A-13(5) for buildings and premises in which the
primary source of revenue is the retail dispensing of motor fuels. This information must be verified by
the applicant prior to the issuance of sign permits.
Ground-mounted Sign. A sign which is supported by structures or supports in or upon the ground and
independent of any support from any building.
Identification Sign. A sign which displays only the address and name or crest, insignia or trademark,
occupation or profession of an occupant or the name of any building on the premises.
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Illuminated Sign. A sign illuminated in any manner by an artificial light source, whether internally or
externally lit.
Institutional Bulletin Board Sign. A sign containing a surface upon which is displayed the name of a
religious institution, school, library, community center or similar institutional or community service use,
and the announcement of its services or activities.
Marquee. A permanent structure projecting beyond a building wall at an entrance to a building or
extending along and projecting beyond the building's wall and generally designed and constructed to
provide protection against the weather.
Marquee Sign. A sign attached to and made a part of a marquee or any other similar projection from
a building.
Monument Sign. A structure built on-grade in which the sign and the structure are an integral part
of one another; not a pole sign.
Off-premises Sign. A sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service or establishment
conducted, sold or offered at a location other than the premises on which the sign is erected.
Pole Sign. A sign that is mounted on one or more freestanding poles or similar supports.
Projecting Sign. Any sign, other than a wall, awning or marquee sign, which is affixed to a building and
is supported only by the wall on which it is mounted.
Roof Sign. A sign erected or constructed, in whole or in part~ upon or above the highest point of a
building with a fiat roof, or the lowest portion of a roof for any building with a pitched roof.
Sign. Any letters, words, symbols, etc., used or intended to attract the attention of the public from the
streets, sidewalks, or other outside public right-of-way. For the purposes of this Article, the term "sign"
shall include all structural members.
Sign Area. See Section 10A-8.
Temporary Sign. A sign or advertising display designed or intended to be displayed for a specified period
of time, as provided in Section 10A-6 and 10A-7.
Wall Sign. A sign attached to a wall, or painted on or against a fiat vertical surface of a structure, which
displays only one advertising surface.
Window Sign. All signs attached to or applied directly onto the surface, or any sign visible from the
public right-of-way through the window.
Section 10A-5. PROHIBITED SIGNS
The following signs are expressly prohibited unless specifically stated otherwise.
(1) Off-premises Signs~ Including Billboards except as provided in Section 10A-7.
(2)
Portable Signs. Any sign not permanently affixed to a building, structure or the ground.
This category includes, but is not limited to, A-frame signs, signs attached to or placed on
vehicles not used for the daily conduct of the business, banners, balloons, and similar
devices used to attract attention. This category of signs will not apply to authorized
temporary signs listed in Section 10A-7.
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(3)
Changeable Copy Signs excluding approved institutional bulletin boards, theater signs and
fuel price signs as permitted by this Ordinance.
(4)
Simulated Traffic Signs or any sign which may be confused with or obstruct the view of
any authorized traffic sign or signal.
(5)
Animated Signs. Signs which involve or simulate motion or rotation, including but not
limited to pennants, propellers, disks, streamers and flags. This prohibition shah not apply
to the hands of a clock, a weathervane, or flags meeting the requirements of Section 10A-
6(4).
(6) Flashing Signs except for time and temperature signs.
(7)
Glaring Signs or signs with light sources of such brightness as to constitute a hazard or
nuisance as determined by the Zoning Administrator.
(8)
Strings of Lights outlining property lines, sales areas, or any portion of a structure, unless
part of an approved sign or sign-structure. This prohibition shall not apply to seasonal
decorations.
(9) Roof Signs.
(10) Signs Affixed to a Tree or other natural vegetation or rocks.
(11)
Signs that Obstruct the visibility at intersections or block any window, door, fire escape,
stairway, or any opening intended for light, air or access to any building.
(12)
Signs Erected in or Over a Public Right-of-Way or on public land except as permitted in
Section 16-27 of the Town Code.
(13) Home Occupation Sign.
(14) Neon Signs (unless approved by the BAR).
Section 10A-6. EXEMPT SIGNS
Sign permits shall not be required for the following signs; however, all other applicable regulations of
this Ordinance shall apply.
(1)
Address or Identification Signs. Signs indicating the address and/or names of occupants
of premises, not exceeding two square feet in area.
(2)
Changing the Message Content of an approved directory, institutional bulletin board or
theater marquee sign.
(3)
Commemorative Plaques and historical markers erected by a recognized historical agency
or governmental body.
(4)
Flags, Emblems and Insignia of any governmental agency or religious, charitable, public or
non-profit organization; provided, however, that no single flag shah exceed fifty square feet
in area and no individual building shall display more than three flags or exceed 100 square
feet in area.
(5) Handicapped Parking Space Sign.
(6)
Directional Signs not exceeding one square foot in area or located closer than five feet to
any lot line. Directional signs may be internally lit or illuminated by white light only.
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(7)
Security and Warning Signs. Signs posted on private property warning the public against
trespassing, or similar messages, provided that any such sign does not exceed 1.5 square
feet in area.
(8)
Private Drive Signs. One per drive entrance, not exceeding two square feet in area, with
the message content limited to the words "Private Drive" and the address of any residences
utilizing the private roadway.
(9) Public Signs including traffic, utility and other regulatory signs.
(10)
Seasonal or Temporary Displays of patriotic, religious or civic character on private property,
not advertising a product or service, not displayed for a period to exceed 30 days.
(11)
Signs Not Visible Beyond the Boundaries of the lot or parcel upon which they are located,
or from any public right-of-way.
(12)
Temporary Political Campaign Signs on Private Property not to exceed nine (9) square feet
in area and six (6) feet in height. Such signs shall not be erected more than 45 days prior
to the election and shall be removed within five (5) days after the election. If, after
reasonable notice, such signs are not removed, the town may remove them and the
candidate, organization or person who caused the sign to be erected may be charged for the
removal.
(13)
Temporary Private Yard Sale Signs not exceeding three (3) in number per yard sale and
not placed in a public right-of-way. All such signs are to be removed within 24 hours of
the end of the sale.
(14)
Temporary Real Estate Signs located on the premises, not exceeding four square feet in area
for single-family residential uses, or nine square feet in area for other No real estate sign
shall exceed a height of six (6) feet. One real estate sign shall be permitted per property,
except for corner lots, which may have two such signs. Temporary real estate signs shall
be removed within seven (7) days of the settlement or lease of the property.
(15)
Tempora .ry Window Signs covering no more than 25 percent of the window area and not
displayed above the first floor. Such signs shall not remain in place for more than four (4)
weeks.
(16)
Vehicle Safety Inspection Signs not exceeding ten square feet in area. Such signs may be
either a wall sign or attached to an existing authorized ground mounted sign structure (one
per business) not to exceed the height of the ground mounted sign.
(17)
Government Signs which are approved by the Town Council or installed for the public
benefit by the Town of Leesburg.
(18) Town sponsored special event signs or banners.
Section 10A-7. SIGNS REQUIRING TEMPORARY SIGN PERMIT
The following signs shall require the issuance of a Temporary Sign Permit by the Zoning Administrator
prior to their erection. The permit shall cite the length of time any such sign may be displayed. If after
the expiration of the Temporary Sign Permit, such signs are not removed, the town may remove them
and charge the cost of removal to the enterprise or proprietor responsible.
(1)
Special Event Sign. The sign will be attached to an existing principal structure or sign, and
not exceed 20 square feet in area or six feet in height. Display of the sign is limited to 14
continuous days, twice a year. The sign shall be removed within five days following the
end of the event.
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(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
Temporary and Seasonal Produce Stand Signs. The total area of all such signs shall not
exceed 20 square feet, nor shall any sign exceed six (6) feet in height.
Construction Signs installed at the time of zoning permit issuance not to exceed one per
street frontage, limited to a maximum six foot height and 20 square foot area. Such signs
shall be removed prior to the issuance of a temporary or permanent certificate of occupancy.
Temporary Business Identification. A wall mounted temporary sign not to exceed 20 square
feet to identify a new business for a period of not more than two months prior to approval
of permanent signage.
Temporary Real Estate Sign (Leasing/Sale Information). Leasing/Sale information can be
displayed for all uses other than single-family residential developments. One sign is
permitted for each street frontage, limited to 20 square feet in area, and six (6) feet in
height. The sign may be displayed for a six (6) month time period. Another temporary
sign permit may be granted at the end of the six (6) month period, which is not subject
to extension.
Temporary Residential Subdivision and Model Home Identification Signs. One sign may
be erected for not more than two (2) years at each principal entrance to the development.
Such signs shall not exceed six (6) feet in height or 20 square feet in area. Individual
model homes may maintain a sign not exceeding six (6) square feet in area.
Temporary Signs Announcing a Civic Philanthropic, Educational or Religious Event. Such
signs shall not exceed 20 square feet in area or six feet in height. The location of the
sign shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator. The sign will not be displayed more
than 14 days prior to the event and will be removed within five days after the event.
Residential Development Approach Signs. For the purpose of directing the public to a
development site, any new residential development constructed for individual ownership may
provide a maximum of four (4) temporary double-sided signs mounted by dual posts near
different intersection locations. The temporary directional signs shall be maintained by the
developer, and comply with the following standards:
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The sign face shall be limited to six (6) inches in height, and two (2) feet
in length. The height of an individual directional sign shall not exceed two
(2) feet. A consolidated directional sign may not exceed three and one-half
(3.5) feet in height.
If the road intersection leads to more than one residential development,
individual signs along the roadways are not permitted. Temporary
directional signs shall be consolidated into a single sign frame, which may
consist of up to four (4) separate residential developments. The height of
a consolidated directional sign is incremental from the base height of a single
directional sign.
Signage will be limited to the project name with a directional arrow. Logos
are not permitted.
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The appearance of the temporary sign shall not vary from the standard
background color approved for all such signs. The letter height, style, and
borders may vary, subject to approval by the Zoning Administrator.
All such temporary signs shall be located on private property, and must
be demonstrated as not interfering with any vehicular sight visibility.
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f.
The temporary sign permit may be renewed annually within 90 days of the
expiration date. Temporary signs will be removed when Certificates of
Occupancy have been issued for 90% of the development.
Section 10A-8. GENERAL SIGN STANDARDS
(1)
Determination of Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be measured from the average
elevation of the edge of pavement at the points most nearly adjacent to the subject parcel
corue~s.
(2) Number of Sign Faces. No sign shall have more than two (2) sign faces.
(3)
Determination of Monument Sign Area. The surface area of the largest face of the
structure will determine the total square footage of the monument sign. This calculation
will exclude the first eighteen (18") inches of the base, provided it does not include any sign
copy. In addition, a planter structure which does not exceed one foot (1) in height or
include sign copy will also be excluded from the area calculation.
(4)
Determination of Sign Area. This is a measure of the surface area which encompasses
any regular geometric figure (square, circle, rectangle, triangle, etc.) enclosing all parts of
the sign face.
(5)
Area of Signs With Two Sign Faces. The area of a sign with two (2) sign faces shall be
computed according to the following:.
Sign faces separated by an interior angle of 45 degrees or greater, both sign faces
shall be included;
Sign faces separated by an interior angle of less than 45 degrees, one sign face shall
be included, provided, however, the area of the largest sign face shall be used when
two faces are unequal in area.
Section 10A-9. DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR PERMITTED SIGN TYPES
All new signs and all existing signs which are replaced, reconstructed, extended or changed structurally
shall comply with the following development standards:
(1) Monument Sign - Development Standards
Road Frontage Requirements. Monument signs shall be permitted only on lots with
100 feet or more of road frontage.
Minimum Separation Distance. No monument sign shall be permitted to be erected
within 100 feet of an existing monument sign.
c. Maximum Height. Ten (10) feet.
Maximum Size. One (1) square foot per five (5) linear feet of street frontage, up
to a maximum size of 40 square feet.
(2) Projecting Sign - Development Standards
Frontage Requirements. Eighteen (18) feet of ground level frontage.
Angle of Projection. Ninety degrees (90°).
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(3)
(4)
Limit on Pro, iection. Three and one-half feet (3'6") or one-half of the width of the
sidewalk, whichever is less.
Prqiection Over Right-of-Way. Permit required as provided in Section 16-27 of the
Town Code.
e. Minimum Clearance. Seven and one-half feet (7'6").
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Maximum Height. Fourteen feet (14') or the bottom sill of any second story
window, whichever is lowest.
Maximum Size. One (1) square foot per linear foot of building frontage on which
the sign is to be attached, up to twelve (12) square feet.
Wall/Marquee Sign - Development Standards
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Placement~ Generally. No wall sign shall cover, cross or otherwise hide columns,
belt courses or other decorative architectural features of the building, including
balconies.
Maximum Height of Wall Signs. Twenty-five feet (25'), or the height of the bottom
sill of any second story window, whichever is lowest.
Maximum Size. One (1) square foot per linear foot of building frontage on which
the sign or signs are to be attached,up to a maximum aggregate of 100 square feet.
d. Limit on Projection. Twelve inches (12").
Permanent Window Signs; Additional Restrictions. Permanent window signs shall
be limited to 25 percent of the window area and shall be included in the calculations
of the permissible square footage for wall signs.
Building Identification Wall Sign. For those uses which the Board of Architectural
Review (BAR) have approved a Building Identification Wall Sign, the maximum size
of the sign may be up to 100 square feet.
Awning and Canopy Signs - Development Standards
Section 10A-10.
(1)
Location. Parallel to and not projecting above or below the face of the awning or
canopy.
(2)
Limit on Projection. To within one foot of the vertical placement of curbs, but shall
in no way interfere or obstruct either pedestrian or vehicular traffic. Any sign
which projects over the public right-of-way shall comply with Section 16-27 of the
Town Code.
Maximum Size. One square foot per linear foot of the awning or canopy, up to a
maximum ten (10) square feet.
CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS
Building Code Compliance. All signs shall be constructed in compliance with the Virginia
Uniform Statewide Building Code.
Condition of Signs. Ail signs and components shall be maintained in good repair and in
a safe, clean and attractive condition.
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(3)
Repair or Removal of Nuisance Signs. Any sign which is declared to be an immediate or
imminent hazard to life or property may be caused to be immediately removed or repaired.
All costs associated with the removal or repair shall be charged to the owner of the
premises.
(4)
Removal of Obsolete Signs. Any sign which is obsolete, because of discontinuance of the
advertised activity or any other reason which would cause the sign to be obsolete, shall be
removed within 30 days.
Section 10A-11. PRE-EXISTING SIGNS
(1)
Any sign which was lawfully in existence at the time of the effective date of this Ordinance
which does not conform to the provisions herein, and any sign which is accessory to a
lawful non-conforming principal use, shall be deemed a lawful pre-existing sign, and may
remain, subject to the following conditions:
The owner of any property on which there is located a pre-existing sign shall, upon
notice from the Zoning Administrator, submit verification within 60 days that the
sign was lawfully in existence at the time of the adoption of these sign regulations.
Once the status of the sign is determined as lawfully existing, a Pre-Existing Sign
Permit shall be granted for renewable periods of five (5) years. The burden of
establishing continuing compliance with the conditions of the Pre-Existing Sign
Permit shall be that of the owner of the property.
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Any pre-existing sign which fails to conform to the conditions contained in this
Ordinance, or which has not received an approved Pre-Existing Sign Permit, shall
be removed or modified within 60 days of notice to conform to these sign
regulations.
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Pre-existing signs must be kept in good repair and condition. However, any sign
which is declared to be unsafe or unlawful by any authorized Town official as a
result of physical condition may not be restored, repaired or rebuilt, but must be
removed.
Pre-existing signs may not be displayed on any other portion of the property or
building other than its original location, and may not be displayed on another
property.
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Pre-existing signs may not be enlarged, extended, reconstructed or structurally
altered.
A pre-existing sign which is destroyed or damaged to an extent exceeding 50 percent
of its appraised value may not be altered, replaced or reinstalled unless it is in
conformance with this Article. If the damage or destruction is 50 percent or less
of the appraised value, the sign may be restored within two years of the damage,
but shall not be enlarged in any manner.
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A pre-existing sign must be removed if the structure, building or use to which it
is accessory is destroyed, or demolished to an extent exceeding 50 percent of the
appraised value of the principal structure, building or use.
The sign copy of pre-existing signs may be changed to accommodate similar
businesses occupying the same location. However, whenever a substantial change
of use or structural alteration occurs upon a lot containing a pre-existing sign, such
sign shall not be permitted unless modified to be in full compliance with this
Ordinance.
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Section 10A-12. RESIDENTIAL ZONING DISTRICTS; PERMITTED SIGNS
(1) General Regulations
Minimum Setback. Five (5) feet from an public rights-of-way unless further
restricted by provisions of this Article.
Illumination of Signs in Residential Districts. The following signs may be
illuminated by white light only: institutional bulletin boards and residential
development identification signs.
(2) Signs for Permitted Principal Uses
Single-Family and Two-Family Dwellings. None except for those signs exempt from
permit requirements and temporary signs authorized in Section 10A-6 and 10A-7,
respectively.
Residential Developments. Permanent subdivision or development identification
signs indicating only the name and/or address of the premises. The identification
sign shall be designed as monument signs with the maximum sign area as follows:
Developments of 20 Units or Less. One monument sign, not to exceed 10
square feet in area or six (6) feet in height.
Developments of 21 Units or More. One monument sign at each major
entrance, not to exceed 20 square feet in area or six (6) feet in height. An
alternative to construction of a monument sign is providing an architectural
entrance feature on both sides of the main entrances not to exceed six (6)
feet in height with up to ten (10) square feet of sign area for each feature,
subject to BAR approval.
General Farming Activities. Two (2) ground-mounted farm signs per property up
to eight (8) feet in height, with a combined area not to exceed 12 square feet.
(3) Signs for Accessory Uses
Accessory Management or Rental Offices. One wan or projecting sign up to four
(4) square feet in area.
Other Accessory Uses. One wall or projecting sign up to four (4) square feet in
area.
(4) Signs for Special Exception Uses
Institutional Bulletin Boards. One ground-mounted or wan sign per use, not to
exceed 16 square feet in area and, if a ground-mounted sign, six (6) feet in height.
Other Special Exception Uses. One sign of any type identifying only the name
and/or address of the premises, not to exceed 16 square feet in area and, if a
ground-mounted sign, six (6) feet in height.
Section 10A-13. BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT ZONING DISTRICTS; PERMITTED SIGNS
(1)
Signs in Business and Employment Districts; General Regulations
a. Development and Construction Standards. All signs requiring a permit shall comply
with the requirements of Sections 10A-9 and 10A-10.
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Ground-mounted Signs; Monument Sign Requirement. All ground mounted signs
erected within business and employment districts shall be constructed as monument
signs, as defined in Section 10A-4.
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Signs Facing Residential Areas. Any sign erected within 100 feet of either an
existing residential use or a residential zoning district shall be non-illuminated and
limited to 16 square feet in area.
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Minimum Setback of Monument Signs. Ten (10) feet from any public right-of-
way, service drive or entrance.
(2)
Signs for Individual Businesses. A single business located on one lot may erect signs as
follows:
Maximum Number of Signs Per Business. Two (2). However, a business shall not
be permitted to have both a monument sign and a projecting sign.
b. .Types of Signs Permitted. Wall, monument, projecting, awning, canopy or marquee.
c. Maximum Size of Signs.
Wall or Marquee Sign. One square foot per linear foot of building frontage
on which the sign or signs are to be attached, up to a maximum aggregate
of 100 square feet.
Monument Sign. One square foot per five linear feet of lot frontage on
which the sign is to be located, up to a maximum size of 40 square feet and
a maximum height of ten (10) feet.
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Awning or Canopy Sign. One square foot per linear foot of the awning or
canopy, up to ten (10) square feet.
Projecting Sign. One square foot per linear foot of building frontage on
which the sign is to be attached, up to twelve (12) square feet.
(3)
Signs for Multiple Businesses. Multiple businesses located on a single lot may erect signs
as follows:
Maximum Number of Signs Per Lot. No lot shall be permitted to have erected both
a projecting sign and a monument sign.
b. Maximum Number of Signs Per Business. Two (2), plus a directory sign.
c. Types of Signs Permitted. Wall, monument, projecting, awning, canopy or marquee.
d. Maximum Size of Signs. Same as for individual businesses (Section 10A-13(2)).
Directory Sign. One wall mounted sign per building placed near the principal
entrance, up to 15 square feet in area. Identification of a business on the directory
sign will not be included with the number of signs permitted in (b) above.
f.
Wall Signs. One per establishment having an individual outside entrance;
harmonious with other wall signs as to color and lettering. The size shall be limited
to one square foot per linear foot of building frontage for the establishment, up to
a maximum of 100 square feet.
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(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
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Building Identification Wall Sign. The BAR may approve an alternative building
identification wall sign when the location and proposed building name will better
relate to the overan design and architectural quality of the building. The maximum
size of the sign may be up to 100 square feet, and is permitted in lieu of individual
wall signs.
Signs for Commercial, Office and Industrial Centers. Commercial, office or industrial
centers or parks at least two acres in size and including five or more establishments
planned as an integrated development shall be authorized to erect signs based on the
followin~
Signs for Individual Establishments Within Center. Same as for individual or
multiple businesses, as appropriate (Section 10A-13 (2) and (3) respectively);
provided, no monument signs shall be permitted for individual businesses located
on the same lot in a shopping center. One monument sign may be erected for each
detached principal building within an office or industrial center. No such sign
shall exceed 20 square feet in area or eight (8) feet in height.
Shopping Center Identification Sign. One monument sign with an area of one
square foot per five linear feet of lot frontage on which the sign is to be erected,
up to a maximum of 40 square feet and a maximum height of ten (10) feet. Only
the name and address of the center and up to three names of establishments shall
be displayed.
Office or Industrial Signs. One monument sign at each mqjor entrance of an office
or industrial center identifying the name of the center only. No such sign shall
exceed 40 square feet in area or ten (10) feet in height.
Signs for Gasoline Stations. Automobile gasoline stations may erect signs as follows:
a. Maximum Number of Signs. Three (3).
b. Types of Signs Permitted. Wall, Monument, awning, canopy or marquee.
c. Maximum Size of Signs:
1. Wall and Marquee. Same as individual businesses (Section 10A-13(2).
Signs. Same as for individual businesses (Section 10A-13(2), but may
include within the allowable square footage a provision for changeable fuel
price sign. The location of the Monument sign must be demonstrated as
not interfering with entrance sight distances.
Canopy or Awning. One square foot per linear foot of the canopy or awning,
with signage comprised of a single reference to the name of the service
station and/or identification logo, up to a maximum fifty (50) square feet
of signage per side of canopy.
Gas Pump Signs. Each gas pump shall be permitted a total of two (2)
square foot of sign area to identify the product dispensed.
Signs for Theaters. Theaters are authorized to erect one of the permitted wall or marquee
signs with a changeable copy board displaying the name(s) and time(s) of the current
motion picture or theatrical production.
Signs for Other Uses Within Business and Employment Districts. In cases where the
regulations within Section 10A-13 do not address a sign for a permissible use within a
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business or employment district, the Zoning Administrator shall make a written
interpretation of the Ordinance, which shall be kept on file and used as a guide for future
determinations.
(8)
Unusual site constraints. When unusual building site conditions prohibit the ability to
obtain effective signage, the Zoning Administrator may issue sign permits which comply
with the intent of this Article upon authorization by the Town Council.
Section 10A-14. SIGNS IN FLOODPLAIN DISTRICTS
(1)
Board of Zoning Appeals Authorization Required. Signs may be erected within a Floodplain
District only after approval by the Board of Zoning Appeals, and the issuance of a sign
permit by the Zoning Administrator.
(2)
Criteria for Signs in the F-1 District. In addition to all applicable criteria established within
these sign regulations, any sign which is proposed to be erected within the F-1 District shall
satisfy all applicable standards established in Article 5C of this Ordinance.
(3)
Area, Height and Location of Signs. The Board of Zoning Appeals is authorized to require
modification of the area, height, or location of a sign upon a determination that such change
is necessary to promote the purpose and intent of the Floodplain District Regulations.
Section 10A-15. SIGNS IN THE OLD AND HISTORIC DISTRICT
(1)
Historic District Zoning Permit Required. Signs within the H-1 Historic District require
the approval of an Historic District Zoning Permit by the Board of Architectural Review
and the issuance of a sign permit by the Zoning Administrator.
(2)
Sign Modifications. The Board of Architectural Review may authorize an alternative signage
plan that does not strictly adhere to the area, number, height and location criteria within
the H-1 District if it is determined that the design is more consistent with the architectural
character of the building to which it relates and other surrounding properties.
(3)
Additional Review Criteria. Any sign erected within the H-1 District shall also satisfy all
applicable criteria established in Article 5A.
(4)
Area, Height, Number and Location of Signs. The height, number and location standards
for the underlying zoning district shall be applicable to all signs erected within the H-1
District. The maximum sign area per use shall not exceed 40 square feet for wall signs,
16 square feet for ground-mounted signs, and ten (10) square feet for projecting signs,
unless specifically modified in accordance with 10A-15(2).
Section 10A-16. SIGNS IN PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS
(1)
Signs, Generally. Applicants submitting a petition for a planned development district (PRN,
PRC or PEC) shall submit the proposed maximum size, height and number of signs,
including proposed limitations and requirements on all private signs, as required by Section
10A-9 of this Article.
(2)
Optional Comprehensive Signage Plan. In order to allow greater design flexibility, planned
development applications may include a comprehensive signage plan indicating the types,
general location, size, height and design of proposed signs. Such a comprehensive signage
plan shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission and approved by the Town Council as
part of the final development plan procedures.
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Section 10A-17. COMPREHENSIVE SIGNAGE PLANS.
(1)
Signs, Generally. In order to encourage unified compatible signage, any existing or proposed
multiple tenant development may submit a comprehensive signage plan which indicates the
proposed sign types, location, size, height, design, materials and color.
(2)
Review Authority. Comprehensive signage plans will be reviewed by the Board of
Architectural Review. The design criteria contained in Section 5B-5 will be utilized to
evaluate the relationship of the proposed signage with the architectural design of the
building. Any individual sign which exceeds the size limitations contained in this Article
must be authorized by the Town Council upon recommendation by the BAR.
Section 10A-18. SIGN PERMIT PROCEDURES
(1)
Applicability. A Sign Permit shall be required for all signs erected after the effective date
of this Article, except for those signs which are specifically excluded from the Sign Permit
requirements as provided in Section 10A-6.
(2)
Filing of Application; Fees. Applications for Sign Permits shall be filed on a form provided
by the Zoning Administrator, shall contain information required herein, and shall be
accompanied by a fee of $25.00 for signs less than six (6) square feet, $35.00 for signs more
than six (6) square feet and $35.00 for a temporary sign permit of any size.
(3)
Pre-Existing Sign Permits. There will not be a fee associated with the submittal of a Pre-
Existing Sign Permit verification.
(4)
Information Required. All applications for Sign Permits shah contain, or have attached
thereto, the following information in either written or graphic form:
a. Name, address and telephone number of the sign erector and the sign owner.
Position of the sign in relation to adjacent lot lines, buildings, sidewalks, streets and
intersections.
Co
Type of sign and general description of structural design and construction materials
to be used.
d. Purpose of the proposed sign.
Drawings of the proposed sign which shall contain specifications indicating the
height, perimeter and area dimensions, means of support, method of illumination,
colors, and any other significant aspect of the proposed sign.
Any other information requested by the Zoning Administrator in order to carry out
the purpose and intent of these regulations.
(5)
Recording of Sign Permit. The Zoning Administrator shall maintain a record of all Sign
Permits issued. All Sign Permits shall be numbered in the order of their issuance.
(6)
Inspections. A final inspection shall be completed after installation of approved signs. Any
discrepancies between the approved sign and the sign as constructed shall be identified and
may result in the halt of construction or sign removal, if so ordered by the Zoning
Administrator.
(7)
Revocations. The Zoning Administrator may revoke a permit or approval if it is found that
there has been concealment or misrepresentation of material facts in either the application
or plans.
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Section 10A-19. TEMPORARY SIGN PERMIT PROCEDURES
For all signs requiring the issuance of a Temporary Sign Permit, as established in Section 10A-7, the
applicant shall submit all information requested by the Zoning Administrator prior to the issuance of
such permit. The approved permit shall include the expiration date of the temporary permit. The
applicant may request extensions of said permit for good cause. A temporary sign(s) remaining after the
expiration of the permit shall be considered an obsolete sign.
Section 10A-20. EXPIRATION OF SIGN PERMITS; SIGNS NOT CONSTRUCTED
A Sign Permit shall expire and become null and void if the approved sign is not erected within a period
of 12 months from the date the permit was originally issued. The Zoning Administrator may grant one
extension of the Sign Permit for a period of six (6) months, but in no case shall a permit be valid for
more than a total of 18 months. Extensions may be granted only when the proposed sign is in
compliance with all current applicable regulations.
Section 10A-21. REMOVAL OF ILLEGAL SIGNS
The Zoning Administrator may remove or order the removal of any illegal sign at the expense of the
property owner. An illegal sign is any sign erected without a permit as described by Section 10A-18 of
this Article or does not comply with any provision of this Article.
SECTION II. All prior ordinances in conflict herewith are repealed.
SECTION III. Severability. If any provision of this Article is declared invalid by a court of
competent jurisdiction, the decision shall not affect the validity of this Article as a whole or of any
remaining provision of this Article.
SECTION IV. This Ordinance shall be in effect upon its passage.
PASSED this 13th day of August
,1991.
ATTEST:
Clerk of Council
Robert E. Sevila, Mayor
Town of Leesburg