Division 15.13 - Zoning: Sign Regulations

Chapter 15 - Zoning
Division 13 - Sign Regulations

SEC. 15.13-1 TITLE. This Division shall be known, cited and referred to as: The Town of Normal Sign Code (hereinafter referred to as "Code").

SEC. 15.13-2 INTENT. The purpose of the regulations set forth in the Town of Normal Sign Code is to further an overall plan for the enhancement of public safety, consistent community development, preservation of property values, and the general welfare of the Town of Normal. The regulations are further intended to: aid in traffic control and safety; preserve and protect property values; lessen congestion of land and air space; provide against undue concentrations of signs which distract and endanger traffic safety and traffic flow; establish reasonable standards for commercial and other advertising through the use of signs in order to maintain and encourage business activity and area development; avoid uncontrolled proliferation of signs; recognize the rights of the public in its use of roads, streets and highways; preserve the wholesome and attractive character of the Town; and to recognize that the general welfare of the public includes a community plan that provides for a community that shall be beautiful as well as healthful, spacious as well as clean, and well balanced in its growth and development.

The promotion of the public health and safety is to be accomplished by reducing the distractive characteristics of signs along public streets and highways, by prohibiting all signs which interfere with public traffic control devices, and by assuring the establishment of adequate and sufficient standards for the erection and maintenance of all signs and sign structures.

The promotion of the public comfort and welfare is to be accomplished by reducing the number of signs in the Town of Normal and by insuring adequate and appropriate spacing of signs so that confusion is reduced and so that businesses can effectively communicate with the public. The public comfort and welfare will be furthered by regulating the size, height, location and general characteristics of permitted signs in order to protect and to enhance the physical appearance and scenic value of the Town of Normal and the surrounding area, and by regulating signs located near or visible from public property such as streets, highways, parks, schools, nursing homes and hospitals where such signs could jeopardize the public's investment in these facilities.

SEC. 15.13-3 GENERAL PROHIBITION. Any sign not expressly permitted by this Code is prohibited in the Town of Normal. All signs must comply with all applicable provisions of the Building, Electrical and Municipal Codes of the Town of Normal.

SEC. 15.13-4 RULES AND DEFINITIONS.

Rules of Construction.

The language set forth in the text of this Code shall be interpreted in accordance with the following rules of construction;
1. The singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular;
2. The present tense includes the past and future tenses, and the future tense includes the present;
3. The word "shall" is mandatory, while the word "may" is permissive;
4. The masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter genders;
5. Whenever a word or term defined hereinafter appears in the text of this Code, its meaning shall be construed as set forth in the Definitions hereof; and,
6. All measured distances shall be to the nearest integral foot. If a fraction is one-half (1/2) foot or more, the integral foot next above shall be taken.
Definitions. Where a definition is not specifically set forth herein, the term shall be defined in the Zoning Code.
1. ABANDONED SIGN. A sign which no longer correctly directs or exhorts any person, advertises a bona fide business, lessor, owner, product or activity conducted or product available on or off the premises where such sign is displayed.
2. ADMINISTRATOR. The Building Commissioner or his duly appointed representative
3. ANIMATED SIGN. A sign employing actual motion or the illusion of motion. Animated signs, which are differentiated from changeable signs as defined and regulated by this code, include the following types:
  
  Electrically activated. Animated signs producing the illusion of movement by means of electronic, electrical or electro–mechanical input and/or illumination capable of simulating movement through employment of the characteristics of one or both of the classifications noted below:
  1. Flashing. Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose illumination is characterized by a repetitive cycle in which the period of illumination is either the same as or less than the period of nonillumination. For the purposes of this ordinance, flashing will not be defined as occurring if the cyclical period between on–off phases of illumination exceeds 4 seconds.
  2. Patterned illusionary movement. Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose illumination is characterized by simulated movement through alternate or sequential activation of various illuminated elements for the purpose of producing repetitive light patterns designed to appear in some form of constant motion.
  Environmentally activated. Animated signs or devices motivated by wind, thermal changes or other natural environmental input. Includes spinners, pinwheels, pennant strings, and/or other devices or displays that respond to naturally occurring external motivation.
  
  Mechanically activated. Animated signs characterized by repetitive motion and/or rotation activated by a mechanical system powered by electric motors or other mechanically induced means.
4. ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTION. Any projection that is not intended for occupancy and that extends beyond the face of an exterior wall of a building, but that does not include signs as defined herein. See also, “Awning”; “Back–lit awning”; and “Canopy, attached and freestanding.”
5. AWNING. An architectural projection or shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building and composed of a covering of rigid or nonrigid materials and/or fabric on a supporting framework that may be either permanent or retractable, including such structures that are internally illuminated by fluorescent or other light sources.
6. AWNING SIGN. A sign displayed on or attached flat against the surface or surfaces of an awning. See also, “Wall” or “Fascia sign.”
7. BACK-LIT AWNING. An awning with a translucent covering material and a source of illumination contained within its framework.
8. BANNER. A flexible substrate on which copy or graphics may be displayed.
9. BANNER SIGN. A sign utilizing a banner as its display surface.
10. BILLBOARD. See “Off–premise sign” and “Outdoor advertising sign.”
11. BUILDING ELEVATION. The entire side of a building, from ground level to the roofline, as viewed perpendicular to the walls on that side of the building.
12. BUILDING FACADE. All windows and wall area in one plane or elevation.
13. CANOPY (Attached). A multisided overhead structure or architectural projection supported by attachments to a building on one or more sides and either cantilevered from such building or also supported by columns at additional points. The surface(s) and/or soffit of an attached canopy may be illuminated by means of internal or external sources of light. See also, “Marquee.”
14. CANOPY (Freestanding). A multisided overhead structure supported by columns, but not enclosed by walls. The surface(s) and or soffit of a freestanding canopy may be illuminated by means of internal or external sources of light.
15. CANOPY SIGN. A sign affixed to the visible surface(s) of an attached or freestanding canopy. For reference, see SEC. 15.13-5.
16. CHANGEABLE SIGN. A sign with the capability of content change by means of manual or remote input, including signs which are:
  
  Manually activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed manually
  
  Electrically activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed by means of remote electrically energized on–off switching combinations of alphabetic or pictographic components arranged on a display surface. Illumination may be integral to the components, such as characterized by lamps or other light–emitting devices; or it may be from an external light source designed to reflect off the changeable component display. See also, “Electronic message sign or center.”
17. COMBINATION SIGN. A sign that is supported partly by a pole and partly by a building structure.
18. COPY. Those letters, numerals, figures, symbols, logos and graphic elements comprising the content or message of a sign, excluding numerals identifying a street address only.
19. DEVELOPMENT COMPLEX SIGN. A freestanding sign identifying a multiple–occupancy development, such as a shopping center or planned industrial park, which is controlled by a single owner or landlord.
20. DIRECTIONAL SIGN. Any sign that is designed and erected for the purpose of providing direction and/or orientation for pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
21. DOUBLE-FACED SIGN. A sign with two faces, back to back.
22. ELECTRIC SIGN. Any sign activated or illuminated by means of electrical energy.
23. ELECTRONIC MESSAGE SIGN OR CENTER. An electrically activated changeable sign whose variable message capability can be electronically programmed.
24. EXTERIOR SIGN. Any sign placed outside a building.
25. FACADE. See “Building facade.”
26. FASCIA SIGN. See “Wall sign.”
27. FLASHING SIGN. See “Animated Sign, electrically activated.”
28. FREESTANDING SIGN. A sign principally supported by a structure affixed to the ground, and not supported by a building, including signs supported by one or more columns, poles or braces placed in or upon the ground. For visual reference, see SEC. 15.13-5.
29. FRONTAGE (Building). The length of an exterior building wall or structure of a single premise oriented to the public way or other properties that it faces.
30. FRONTAGE (Property). The length of the property line(s) of any single premise along either a street or public right of way.
31. HIGH RISE SIGN. A sign that exceeds the allowable height as defined in Figures 1008.1.2 (1-3) of this code.
32. ILLUMINATED SIGN. A sign characterized by the use of artificial light, either projecting through its surface(s) (internally illuminated); or reflecting off its surface(s) (externally illuminated).
33. INTERIOR SIGN. Any sign placed within a building, but not including “window signs” as defined by this ordinance. Interior signs, with the exception of window signs as defined, are not regulated by this section.
34. LOW RISE SIGN A sign that meets the height and area requirements of Table 1008.1.1 and Table 1008.1.2.
35. MANSARD. An inclined decorative roof–like projection that is attached to an exterior building facade.
36. MARQUEE. See “Canopy (attached).”
37. MARQUEE SIGN. See “Canopy sign.”
38. MENU BOARD. A freestanding sign oriented to the drive–through lane for a restaurant that advertises the menu items available from the drive–through window.
39. MONUMENT SIGN. A free standing sign that has at least 75% of its sign display are in contact with the ground and a decorative sign base.
40. MULTIPLE-FACED SIGN. A sign containing three or more faces.
41. NON-CONFORMING SIGN. Any advertising structure or sign which was lawfully erected and maintained prior to such time as it came within the purview of this Code and any amendments thereto, and which fails to conform to all applicable regulations and restrictions of this Code.
42. OFF-PREMISE SIGN. See “Outdoor advertising sign.”
43. ON-PREMISE SIGN. A sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of messages appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of, the property on which it is displayed.
44. OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGN. A permanent sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of commercial or noncommercial messages not appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of, the property on which it is displayed.
45. PARAPET. The extension of a building facade above the line of the structural roof.
46. POLE SIGN. See “Freestanding sign.”
47. POLITICAL SIGN. A temporary sign intended to advance a political statement, cause or candidate for office. A legally permitted outdoor advertising sign shall not be considered to be a political sign.
48. PORTABLE SIGN. Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or to a building or building surface.
49. PROJECTING SIGN. A sign other than a wall sign that is attached to or projects more than 18 inches (457 mm) from a building face or wall or from a structure whose primary purpose is other than the support of a sign. For visual reference, see SEC. 15.13-5.
50. REAL ESTATE SIGN. A temporary sign advertising the sale, lease or rental of the property or premises upon which it is located.
51. REVOLVING SIGN. A sign that revolves 360 degrees about an axis. See also, “Animated sign, mechanically activated.”
52. ROOF LINE. The top edge of a peaked roof or, in the case of an extended facade or parapet, the uppermost point of said facade or parapet.
53. ROOF SIGN. A sign mounted on, and supported by, the main roof portion of a building, or above the uppermost edge of a parapet wall of a building and which is wholly or partially supported by such a building. Signs mounted on mansard facades, pent eaves and architectural projections such as canopies or marquees shall not be considered to be roof signs. For a visual reference example of a roof sign, and a comparison of differences between roof and fascia signs, see SEC. 15.13-5.
54. SIGN. Any device visible from a public place that displays either commercial or noncommercial messages by means of graphic presentation of alphabetic or pictorial symbols or representations.
55. SIGN AREA. The area of the smallest geometric figure, or the sum of the combination of regular geometric figures, which comprise the sign face. The area of any double–sided or “V” shaped sign shall be the area of the largest single face only. The area of a sphere shall be computed as the area of a circle. The area of all other multiple–sided signs shall be computed as 50 percent of the sum of the area of all faces of the sign.
56. SIGN COPY. Those letters, numerals, figures, symbols, logos and graphic elements comprising the content or message of a sign, exclusive of numerals identifying a street address only.
57. SIGN FACE. The surface upon, against or through which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated, not including structural supports, architectural features of a building or sign structure, nonstructural or decorative trim, or any areas that are separated from the background surface upon which the sign copy is displayed by a distinct delineation, such as a reveal or border. See SEC. 15.13-5.
  1. In the case of panel or cabinet type signs, the sign face shall include the entire area of the sign panel, cabinet or face substrate upon which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated, but not open space between separate panels or cabinets.
  2. In the case of sign structures with routed areas of sign copy, the sign face shall include the entire area of the surface that is routed, except where interrupted by a reveal, border, or a contrasting surface or color.
  3. In the case of signs painted on a building, or individual letters or graphic elements affixed to a building or structure, the sign face shall comprise the sum of the geometric figures or combination of regular geometric figures drawn closest to the edge of the letters or separate graphic elements comprising the sign copy, but not the open space between separate groupings of sign copy on the same building or structure.
  4. In the case of sign copy enclosed within a painted or illuminated border, or displayed on a background contrasting in color with the color of the building or structure, the sign face shall comprise the area within the contrasting background, or within the painted or illuminated border.
58. SIGN STRUCTURE. Any structure supporting a sign. The area of the sign structure shall not exceed two times the sign area.
59. TEMPORARY SIGN. A sign intended to display either commercial or noncommercial messages of a transitory or temporary nature. Portable signs or any sign not permanently embedded in the ground, or not permanently affixed to a building or sign structure that is permanently embedded in the ground, are considered temporary signs.
60. UNDER CANOPY SIGN OR UNDER MARQUEE SIGN. A sign attached to the underside of a canopy or marquee.
61. V SIGN. Signs containing two faces of approximately equal size, erected upon common or separate structures, positioned in a “V” shape with an interior angle between faces of not more than 90 degrees with the distance between the sign faces not exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm) at their closest point.
62. WALL OR FASCIA SIGN. A sign that is in any manner affixed to any exterior wall of a building or structure and that projects not more than 18 inches (457 mm) from the building or structure wall, including signs affixed to architectural projections from a building provided the copy area of such signs remains on a parallel plane to the face of the building facade or to the face or faces of the architectural projection to which it is affixed. For visual reference and comparison examples of differences between wall or fascia signs and roof signs, see SEC. 15.13-5.
63. WINDOW SIGN. A sign affixed to the surface of a window with its message intended to be visible to and readable from the public way or from adjacent property.
64. ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS. The Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Normal.
65. ZONING CODE. Chapter 15 of the Municipal Code of the Town of Normal.

SEC. 15.13-5. GENERAL SIGN TYPES. Sign types and the computation of sign area shall be as depicted in Figures 15.13-5(A) through 15.13-5(D).

SEC. 15.13-6 – GENERAL PROVISIONS

Conformance To Codes. Any sign hereafter erected shall conform to the provisions of this ordinance and the provisions of Chapter 11 of the Municipal Code Town of Normal and of any other applicable ordinance or regulations of the Town of Normal.
Signs In Public Rights-Of-Way. No sign other than an official traffic sign or similar sign shall be erected within the right-of-way lines of any street, or within any public way, unless specifically authorized by other ordinances or regulations of the Town of Normal or by specific authorization of a Town official.

Such signs may be deemed a hazard to the community and may be removed immediately by the sign administrator or delegate. These signs may be disposed of or held at the discretion of the sign administrator for retrieval by the offending party.
Traffic Visibility. No sign or sign structure shall be erected at the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision, nor at any location where by its position, shape or color it may interfere with or obstruct the view of or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device.
Computation Of Frontage. If a premises contains walls facing more than one property line or encompasses property frontage bounded by more than one street or other property usages, the allowable sign area for the parcel shall be computed on the longer of the sides fronting a right of way.
Maintenance, Repair And Removal. Every sign permitted by this ordinance shall be kept in good condition and repair. When any sign becomes insecure, in danger of falling or is otherwise deemed unsafe by the code official, or if any sign shall be unlawfully installed, erected or maintained in violation of any of the provisions of this ordinance, the owner thereof or the person or firm using same shall, upon written notice by the code official forthwith in the case of immediate danger, and in any case within not more than 10 days, make such sign conform to the provisions of this ordinance, or shall remove it. If within 10 days the order is not complied with, the code official shall be permitted to remove or cause such sign to be removed at the expense of the owner and/or the user of the sign.
Obsolete Non-Premise Sign Copy. Any sign copy that no longer advertises or identifies a use conducted on the property on which said sign is erected must have the sign copy covered or removed within 30 days after written notification from the municipal code official; and upon failure to comply with such notice, the code official is hereby authorized to cause removal of such sign copy, and any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building, structure or ground on which the sign is located.
Nonconforming Signs. Any sign legally existing at the time of the passage of this ordinance that does not conform in use, location, height or size with the regulations of the zone in which such sign is located, shall be considered a legal nonconforming use or structure and shall be permitted to continue in such status until the earlier of such time as it is either abandoned or removed by its owner.
1. A non-conforming sign may not be:
  1. Changed to another non-conforming sign;
  2. Structurally altered so as to prolong the life of the sign;
  3. Expanded;
  4. Re-established after its removal for a period of more than thirty (30) days;
  5. Re-established after damage or destruction if the estimated expense of reconstruction exceeds fifty (50) percent of its fair cash value prior to the time of destruction.
2. Non-Conforming Signs Amortization. The owner of a non-conforming sign shall be required to either remove, or alter a non-conforming sign in such a manner that would bring the sign into compliance with the bulk regulations of this code no later than January 1, 2012. An owner of a non-conforming sign may seek relief from the amortization schedule provided herein by filing for a variation with the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Freestanding Sign Design Regulations. All freestanding signs, including but not limited to On-Premise, High-Rise and Outdoor Advertising Signs (Billboards) shall be constructed and designed so as not to detract aesthetically, or create an adverse economic impact upon adjacent or surrounding property.

The following basic design elements shall be considered by the Town prior to the issuance of a permit to construct, alter or modify any sign located in the Business, Commercial or Manufacturing districts within the Town of Normal.
1. Structural elements or components of a sign shall be treated or screened to prevent or reduce the visibility from a public way or an adjacent property. This shall be accomplished with the use of decorative building materials, landscape materials including trees, shrubs, bushes or flowers.
2. Where an existing or proposed structure is present sign on a lot, sign construction shall be similar in design, material and architecture so as to be harmonious with the building and its surroundings.
3. Lighting associated with a freestanding signs shall provide a plan indicating beam spread foot-candle levels and shall be installed so as not spillover or glare to adjacent property or public right-of-way.
Sign Location. All freestanding signs, must be located on a lot of record with frontage on a public road.

SEC.15.13-7 EXEMPT SIGNS. The following signs shall be exempt from the permit provisions of this chapter. No sign shall be exempt from SEC. 15.13-8. These signs are permitted in addition to the signs permitted in the respective use districts, but are subject to the conditions and limitations set forth herein.

Official notices authorized by a court, public body or public safety official.
Directional, warning or information signs authorized by federal, state or municipal governments.
Street address signs and combination nameplate and street address signs that contain no advertising copy and which do not exceed 6 square feet (0.56 m²) in area or 6 feet in height.
Temporary Political Campaign Signs. Temporary political campaign signs may be erected and maintained within the boundaries of private property only and shall not extend over or into the public right-of-way. All such signs shall be removed within fourteen (14) days following the date of the election to which the signs pertain.
Public Signs. Signs of a public, non-commercial nature to include safety signs, danger signs, trespassing signs, traffic signs, street name signs and municipal identification signs, signs indicating scenic or historic points of interest, memorial plaques, signs and emblems of nationally recognized service club organizations and all signs erected by an order of a public official in the performance of a public duty.
Flags. Flags bearing the official design of a nation, state, municipality, business enterprise, educational institution or service organization; such flags to be appropriately and properly displayed.
Integral Signs. Names of buildings, dates of construction, commemorative tablets, and similar signs, when carved into stone, concrete or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum or other permanent type of construction and made an integral part of the building or structure.
Private Traffic Direction Signs and Related Signs. Signs directing traffic movement onto a premises or within a premise, when such signs are located on the premises, shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area for each sign and if free-standing, do not exceed six (6) feet in total height. Such signs are considered to include parking directions, exit or entrance signs, drive-up window signs and restroom signs.
Real Estate Sale or Rental Sign. An on premise sign advertising for sale, rental, or lease, all or a portion thereof, the real estate upon which such sign is located. All such signs must be removed within fourteen (14) days following the sale, consummation of the lease, or rental of the property to which the sign pertains.
1. In the R-1AA and R-1A and R-1B Single-Family Residence Districts, and the R-2 Mixed Residential District and the R-3A Medium Density Multiple-Family Residence District and R-4 Mobile Home Residence District, either a wall-mounted or free-standing sign is permitted per dwelling, except in the R-2 Mixed Residential District and R-3A Medium Density Multiple-Family Residence District and R-3B High Density Multiple-Family Residence District one (1) wall-mounted or free-standing sign is permitted for each dwelling unit, provided the dwelling in which such dwelling unit is located is not licensed by the Town as a Multiple-Family Dwelling. In any event, a free-standing sign shall not exceed six (6) feet in height and six (6) square feet in sign area, and a wall-mounted sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet in sign area.
2. In all other Zoning Districts, either a wall-mounted or free-standing sign is permitted. If free-standing, such sign shall not exceed twelve (12) feet in height and thirty-two (32) square feet in sign area.
3. Where a property is both for sale and for rent simultaneously, one (1) advertising the sale and one (1) sign advertising the rental or lease is permitted in accordance with the foregoing size limitations.
Underground Public Utility Warning Signs. Standard types of warning signs marking the routes of underground public utility pipes, conduits and cables.
Issue of General Public Interest Sign. Any sign which depicts an issue of general public interest and/or personal beliefs and views to same may be erected and maintained within the boundaries of private property only and shall not exceed over or into the public right-of-way. Such sign is to be removed within fourteen (14) days after the public interest in question has transpired or been finalized by court or other governmental mandate.

SEC. 15.13-8 PROHIBITED SIGNS. The following devices and locations shall be specifically prohibited:

Signs of the size, location, movement, content, coloring or manner of illumination which may be confused with, or construed as a traffic control device, or which hides from view any traffic or street sign or signal, are prohibited. No sign or other advertising structure shall be erected at the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device, or which makes use of words “stop”, “look”, “danger”, or any other word, phrase symbol or character, in such a manner as to interfere with, or mislead or confuse pedestrians or operators of vehicles upon the thoroughfare.
Except as provided for elsewhere in this code, signs encroaching upon or overhanging public right–of–way. No sign shall be attached to any utility pole, light standard, street tree or any other public facility located within the public right–of–way.
Animated Signs. No sign shall be permitted which is animated by means of flashing, scintillating, blinking or traveling lights.
Portable electric signs.
Any sign attached to, or placed on, a vehicle or trailer parked on public or private property, except for signs meeting the following conditions:
1. The primary purpose of such a vehicle or trailer is not the display of signs.
2. The signs are magnetic, decals or painted upon an integral part of the vehicle or equipment as originally designed by the manufacturer, and do not break the silhouette of the vehicle.
3. The vehicle or trailer is in operating condition, currently registered and licensed to operate on public streets when applicable, and actively used or available for use in the daily function of the business to which such signs relate.
Vehicles and trailers used primarily as static displays, advertising a product or service.
Balloons, streamers, pinwheels, non-exempt flags or banners except those temporarily displayed as part of a special sale, promotion or community event. For the purposes of this subsection, “temporarily” means no more than 84 days in any calendar year.
Abandoned Signs. Any sign which constitutes an abandoned sign for fourteen (14) consecutive days.
Lots of Record. No freestanding sign shall be placed or allowed to remain on property unless such property is a lot of record with frontage on a public road.

SEC. 15.13-9 PERMITS

Permits Required. Unless specifically exempted, a permit must be obtained from the code official for the erection and maintenance of all signs erected or maintained within this jurisdiction and in accordance with other ordinances of this jurisdiction. Signs erected or maintained within the B-2 Central Business District also require a Certificate of Compliance, as provided in Division 17 of this Code. Exemptions from the necessity of securing a permit, however, shall not be construed to relieve the owner of the sign involved from responsibility for its erection and maintenance in a safe manner and in a manner in accordance with all the other provisions of this ordinance. (Amended 1/20/04 by Ord. No. 4926)
Construction Documents. Before any permit is granted for the erection of a sign or sign structure requiring such permit, construction documents shall be filed with the code official showing the dimensions, materials and required details of construction, including loads, stresses, anchorage and any other pertinent data. The permit application shall be accompanied by the written consent of the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is to be erected. Any sign greater than 100 square feet in area or greater than 15 feet in height shall require construction documents sealed by a structural engineer.
Changes To Signs. No sign shall be structurally altered, enlarged or relocated except in conformity to the provisions herein, nor until a proper permit, if required, has been secured. The changing or maintenance of moveable parts or components of an approved sign that is designed for such changes, or the changing of copy, business names, lettering, sign faces, colors, display and/or graphic matter, or the content of any sign shall not be deemed a structural alteration. Changes to copy, sign faces, or content do require a permit as required in the permit fee schedule.
Permit Fees. Permit fees to erect, alter or relocate a sign shall be in accordance with the fee schedule adopted within this jurisdiction.

Permit fees for Temporary Signs:

$1.00 per day and not more than 84 days in a calendar year.

A sticker with the expiration date shall be issued for each Temporary Sign. Such sticker shall be affixed to the sign for duration of display. If additional display time is permitted, a new sticker will be issued.

Permit fee for Free Standing Sign and Wall Sign:

Value of Sign	Permit Fee
Up to $1000	$25.00 Minimum Permit Fee
Up to $10,000	$25.00 and $13.00 for each thousand over $1k
Up to $50,000	$142.00 and $6.00 for each thousand over $10k
Over $50,000	$382.00 and $3.00 for each thousand over $50k

DURATION OF PERMIT. Every sign permit issued by the Administrator shall become null and void if manufacture is not commenced within one hundred twenty (120) days from the date of such permit. If work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for one hundred twenty (120) days any time after the work is commenced, a new permit shall be first obtained to do so and the fee shall be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such work provided that no changes have been made in the original plans. Such permit may not be unreasonably withheld, providing that proper application and payment of permit fees is complied with.
ISSUANCE. The Administrator shall issue a permit for the erection, alteration or relocation of a sign within the Town when an application therefore has been properly made and the sign described therein complied with all appropriate laws and regulations of the Town.
EFFECT OF ISSUANCE. No permit for a sign issued hereunder shall be deemed to constitute permission or authorization to maintain an unlawful sign nor shall any permit issued hereunder constitute a defense in an action to abate an unlawful sign.

SEC. 15.13-10 SPECIFIC SIGN REQUIREMENTS

SIGN AREA ALLOWED PER LOT. Every building site may display signage up to the maximum allowed in Table 1008.1.1(1) The allowable signage is contingent upon the style of signs selected for the site and the linear lot frontage. Sign requirements in the B-2 Central Business District are set forth in Division 17 of this Code.

TABLE 1008.1.1(1) Sign Square Footage Allowed per Linear Foot of Longest Lot Frontage
ZONING CLASS	SITE SIGNAGE Wall Signs and/or Freestanding Low Rise Signs	SITE SIGNAGE Wall Signs and/or Freestanding Signs not Classified as Low Rise
A, R1, R-2, R-4	0 ^a	0 ^a
R3A, R3B	0 ^b	0 ^b
S1 S2 S3	0 ^c 0 ^d Historic Preservation Review ^e	0 ^c 0 ^d Historic Preservation Review ^e
C1 C2	2.25 ^f	1.5
C3 B1 M1, M2	3 ^f	2

Table 1008.1.1 (1) – The allowable sign area for a lot is 50% higher if all freestanding signs on the lot are “Low Rise” as defined in footnote ^f . The increase in sign area does not increase the maximum freestanding sign size permitted by Figures 1008.1.2(1-3) ^a The square footage in these districts is not determined by lot frontage, the maximum sign square footage is two (2) square feet.
^b The signage square footage in these districts is not determined by lot frontage. The maximum sign square footage is forty (40) and the maximum height for a sign is six (6) feet.
^c S1 University District is regulated by Illinois State University and not subject to the Town’s sign regulations
^d S2 Public Lands and Institutions is not determined by lot frontage, the maximum sign square footage is fifty (50) and the maximum sign height is six (6) feet.
^e S3 Historic District signs are subject to review and approval by the Normal Historic Preservation Commission.
^f The minimum sign package area allowed in C3, M1, M2, and B1 is 50 square feet regardless of the lot frontage. Sign height is measured from grade to the top of the sign. The width of a Low Rise sign shall be not more than twice the allowable height. The maximum height for a sign to qualify for additional sign area in the B-1, C and M districts are as listed:

Lot Frontage 100’ or less:	8’-0” or less in height
Lot Frontage over 100’ and less than 200’	10’-0” or less in height
Lot Frontage over 200’	12’-0” or less in height
Lot Frontage over 200’ in C3 and M2	15’-0” or less in height.
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m²	For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

FREESTANDING SIGNS. Sign Display Restrictions. In addition to any allowable wall signs, every single–family residential subdivision, multifamily residential complex, commercial or industrial building, and every separate nonresidential building in a residential zone shall be permitted to display freestanding or combination signs per street frontage subject to the limiting standards set forth in Table 1008.1.2. Every sign displayed on a site is subject to the restrictions in Table 1008.1.2

Table 1008.1.2 Sign Display Restrictions
ZONING DISTRICT	TYPE OF SIGN	NUMBER OF SIGNS	MAX SIGN HEIGHT	MAX SIGN AREA
A, R1, R2, and R4	Wall Only	1	6^a	2^a
Special Use R-1	All other signs	1 of each type	Wall Height	50^b
Special Use R-1	Freestanding	1 of each type	6^b	50^b
R3A, R3B	All other signs	1 of each type	Wall Height	40^c
R3A, R3B	Freestanding	1 of each type	6^c	40 Monument
S1	-	-	-	-
S2	All other signs	1 permitted, owner’s choice of type	Wall Height ^d	50 ^d
S2	Freestanding	1 permitted, owner’s choice of type	6 ^d	50 ^d
S3	All other signs	By Review ^e	By Review ^e	By Review ^e
S3	Freestanding	By Review ^e	By Review ^e	By Review ^e
C1 C2	All other signs	No Limit	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)
C1 C2	Freestanding	1 per frontage ^f	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)
C3, B1, M1, M2	All other signs	No Limit	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)
C3, B1, M1, M2	Freestanding	1 per frontage ^f	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)	Figure 1008.1.2.(1-3)

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 1.609 km/hr.
FIGURE 1008.1.2(1)

PERMITTED HEIGHT AND AREA FOR FREESTANDING SIGNS IN ZONING DISTRICTS B1, C1, C2, C3, M1, AND M2 WHERE VEHICULAR SPEED SUBJECT TO POSTED LIMITS IS 35 MILES PER HOUR AND UNDER.

Lot Frontage On a Public Street	Maximum Allowable Freestanding Sign Height	Maximum Sign Area Pending Lot Frontage

0’ up to 150’-0”	15’-0”	150 sq/ft
150’-0” and over	20’-0”	200 sq/ft.

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 1.609 km/hr.
FIGURE 1008.1.2(2)

PERMITTED HEIGHT AND AREA FOR FREESTANDING SIGNS IN ZONING DISTRICTS B1, C1, C2, C3, M1, AND M2 WHERE VEHICULAR SPEED SUBJECT TO POSTED LIMITS IS OVER 35 MILES PER HOUR AND UNDER 55 MILES PER HOUR.

Lot Frontage On a Public Street	Maximum Allowable Freestanding Sign Height	Maximum Sign Area Pending Lot Frontage

0’ to 87’-6”	15’-0”	150 sq/ft.
87’-6” to 150’-0”	20’-0”	225 sq/ft
150’-0” and over	30’-0”	300 sq/ft

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 mile per hour = 1.609 km/hr.
FIGURE 1008.1.2(3)

PERMITTED HEIGHT AND AREA FOR SIGNS IN ZONING DISTRICTS B1, C1, C2, C3, M1, AND M2 WHERE VEHICULAR SPEED SUBJECT TO POSTED LIMITS IS 55 MILES PER HOUR AND ABOVE.

Lot Frontage On a Public Street	Maximum Allowable Freestanding Sign Height	Maximum Sign Area Pending Lot Frontage

0’ to 22’-6”	15’-0”	120 sq/ft
22’-6” to 75’-0”	25’-0”	225 sq/ft
75’-0” to 127’-6”	35’-0”	330 sq/ft
127’-6” and over	50’-0”	450 sq/ft

REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIC SIGN TYPES.
1. CANOPY AND MARQUEE SIGNS
  1. The permanently affixed copy area of canopy or marquee signs shall not exceed an area equal to 25 percent of the face area of the canopy, marquee or architectural projection upon which such sign is affixed or applied.
  2. Graphic striping, patterns or color bands on the face of a building, canopy, marquee or architectural projection shall not be included in the computation of sign copy area.
2. AWNING SIGNS.
  1. The copy area of awning signs shall not exceed an area equal to 25 percent of the background area of the awning or awning surface to which such a sign is affixed or applied, or the permitted area for wall or fascia signs, whichever is less.
  2. Neither the background color of an awning, nor any graphic treatment or embellishment thereto such as striping, patterns or valances, shall be included in the computation of sign copy area.
3. PROJECTING SIGNS.
  1. Projecting signs shall be permitted in lieu of freestanding signage on any street frontage limited to one sign per occupancy along any street frontage with public entrance to such occupancy, and shall be limited in height and area as set forth in Section 1008.
  2. No such sign shall extend vertically above the highest point of the building upon which it is mounted.
  3. Except in the B-2 Central Business District, such signs shall not extend over a public sidewalk or right-of-way.
4. UNDER CANOPY SIGNS. Such signs shall maintain a clear vertical distance above any sidewalk or pedestrian way a minimum of eight (8) feet.
5. ROOF SIGNS.
  1. Roof signs shall be permitted only in B-1, C, and M Zoning districts.
  2. Such signs shall be limited to a height above the ground and a sign area no more than the height and area provided in Figure 1008.1.2 (1-3) for freestanding signs.
  3. The sign area for roof signs shall be assessed against the aggregate permitted area for wall signs on the elevation of the building most closely parallel to the face of the sign.
6. MENU BOARDS.
  
  One menu board shall be allowed per site and not counted as a freestanding sign for bulk allowances. Menu board signs shall not be permitted to exceed 75 square feet (4.6 m²).
7. OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGNS
  1. The maximum sign height and area shall be determined by the specific zoning district and the posted street mph. These are determined by Tables 1008.1.1 and 1008.1.2, Figures 1008.1.2(1), 1008.1.2(2) and 1008.1.2(3)
  2. Freestanding signs shall a minimum of 1000’ from any other free-standing off-premise sign located on the same side of a two-way street, and 500’ from any other free-standing off-premise sign on the opposite side a two-way street. The setback shall be measured from a perpendicular line across the street from the existing freestanding sign.
  3. Freestanding signs shall be a minimum of 1000’ from any other freestanding off-premise sign located on either side of a one-way street. The setback shall be measured from a perpendicular line across the street from the existing freestanding sign.
  4. Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of 200’ from any residential zoning district.
  5. Freestanding signs shall be located a minimum of 100’ from any other free-standing on-premise sign located on a lot.
  6. Freestanding signs may be located within the B-1, Commercial and Manufacturing zoning districts, however signs shall count toward the allowed number of free-standing signs for a site, and not be allowed as additional signs.
  7. Trim: Freestanding signs shall be constructed with a trim not to exceed two inches in width.
  8. Backs: Freestanding signs with backs visible from a public right of way shall be improved with decorative panels to cover the structural support of the sign area.
8. TEMPORARY SIGNS. A permit is required for all temporary signs. The square footage for temporary signs shall be determined as follows:
  1. Such signs shall be limited to one sign per street front.
  2. Such signs may be displayed for not more than 84 days in any calendar year. The signs shall be erected no more than 5 days prior to the event or grand opening, and shall be removed not more than 1 day after the event or grand opening.
  3. The total area of all such signs shall not exceed 1.5 square feet area for each linear foot of lot frontage square feet in any business, commercial or industrial district.
  4. Residential properties shall be limited to 100 square feet of signage.
    
    Permit fees shall be assessed based on the schedule in SEC. 15.13-9(D)
9. DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION SIGNS. Signs temporarily erected during construction to inform the public of the developer, contractors, architects, engineers, the nature of the project or anticipated completion dates, shall be permitted in all zoning districts, subject to the following limitations:
  1. Such signs on a single residential lot shall be limited to one sign, not greater than six (6) feet in height and six (6) square feet in area.
  2. Such signs for a residential subdivision or multiple residential lots shall be limited to one sign, at each entrance to the subdivision or on one of the lots to be built upon, and shall be no greater than 10 feet in height and 32 square feet in area.
  3. Such signs for nonresidential uses in residential districts shall be limited to one sign, and shall be no greater than 10 feet in height and 32 square feet in area.
  4. Such signs for commercial or industrial projects shall be limited to one sign per street front, not to exceed ten (10) feet in height and thirty-two (32) square feet for projects on parcels 5 acres (20 235 m²) or less in size, and not to exceed ten (10) feet in height and one hundred (100) square feet for projects on parcels larger than 5 acres (20 235 m²).
  5. Development and construction signs may not be displayed until after the issuance of construction permits by the building official, and must be removed not later than 24 hours following issuance of an occupancy permit for all or any portion of the project.
10. HIGHRISE SIGN CORRIDOR. Freestanding signs located within the “Highrise Sign Corridor” as defined may be seventy-five (75) feet in height and up to four hundred fifty (450) square feet in area. Figures 1008.1.2(1-3) shall determine the actual allowable sign area. The corridor is as defined:
  
  800’ from each edge of Interstate 55 right of way as shown in Appendix A.
  
  800’ from each edge of Interstate 39 north of Interstate 55 as shown in Appendix A.
  
  660’ of the 800’ is controlled by the Illinois Department of Transportation, in the event of code conflict the more restrictive provisions will apply.
  
  250’ from each edge of Main St. right of way south of Interstate 55 south to Raab Rd.
  
  Lots have frontage on Main St. south of Raab Rd. to the end of the B-1 General Business Zoning District as shown in Appendix A (Approximately 600’)

SEC. 15.13-11 CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS.

Compliance with Building Code. All signs shall comply with the appropriate detailed provisions of the BOCA Building Code as currently adopted by the Town, relating to design, structural members and connections. Any sign exceeding 100 square feet in area or, 15’-0” in overall height shall be supplied with constructions documents sealed by a licensed Illinois Structural Engineer. Signs shall also comply with the provisions of the Town of Normal Electrical Code and the additional construction standards hereinafter set forth in this Section.
Freestanding Signs & Materials. All freestanding sign structures or poles shall be self-supporting structures erected on and permanently attached to concrete foundations. Such structures or poles shall be fabricated only from painted steel or such other materials as permitted by the BOCA Building Code as adopted by the Town.
Strength of Parapet Wall. A parapet wall must have sufficient strength to support any sign which is attached hereto.
Supports and Braces. Metal supports or braces shall be adequate for wind loadings. Wire or cable supports shall have a safety factor of four (4). All metal, wire cable supports and braces and all bolts used to attach sign to bracket or brackets and signs to the supporting building or structure shall be galvanized or an equivalent material.
Wind Loads. All signs shall be designed and constructed in conformity with the provisions for materials, loads, stresses of Articles 7 and 8, and the requirements of the BOCA Building Code as currently adopted by the Town. The effect of special local wind pressures shall be thoroughly considered in the design, but in no case shall the wind load be assumed less than thirty (30) pounds per square foot of net exposed area for roof signs.
Sign Anchoring. Signs shall be anchored to prevent any lateral movement that would cause wear on supporting members or connectors.
Maintenance and Repair. Every sign, including but not limited to those for which a permit is required, shall be maintained in a safe, presentable and good structural material condition at all times, including the replacement of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning, and other acts required for the maintenance of said sign.
Electrical Requirements
1. All illuminated signs shall have a disconnecting switch located in accordance with the National Electrical Code. All illuminated elements of any sign shall always be maintained in satisfactory working condition, and shall be immediately repaired or replaced as needed. Signs that are only partially illuminated shall meet all electrical requirements for that portion directly illuminated. Electrical wiring for illuminated signs shall be installed by an electrical contractor licensed (or registered) with the Town of Normal. Sign contractors shall be permitted to make electrical connections from illuminated signs to approved electrical wiring located within six (6) feet of signs or sign structures, provided that such connections are made in accordance with the National Electric Code.
2. When a sign is illuminated either from an external source or by an internal source of light, direct rays of light shall not beam to or reflect upon any part of an existing residential building, nor into a residence zoned district, nor into a public street. A sign that is in the direct line of vision of any motorist with a traffic signal light shall not have read, green yellow, or amber illumination when such illumination is likely to be confused with such signal.
3. All gas discharge tubing systems (neon) shall be Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL) listed or an approved equal. Systems shall be designed and installed per Article 600 of the National Electrical Code. Complete system drawing are to include but are not limited to the following: complete tubing design layout and wiring circuits, transformer size(s) and secondary voltage(s). Maximum open circuit voltage shall be 7,500 volts to ground. Transformers above 7,500 volts shall be of balanced design and mid-point wired and enclosed in metallic raceways. All secondary components shall be rated for the circuit voltage and listed on the submitted data. All wiring and electrical terminations shall be protected from physical contact if less than eight (8) feet above finished floor.
4. Any sign contractor who installs, services, or constructs signs requiring or using electricity shall be registered with the Town of Normal. Sign contractors will register annually with the Building Commissioner or his representative at a charge of $50 per calendar year.

SEC. 15.13-12 VIOLATIONS.

In any instance where signs have been abandoned and/or where the specific event (such as, the sale of real estate, the official determination of a political election, the expiration of a holiday has transpired and the sign or signs in question have not been removed per the requirements established in this Code, the Administrator upon five (5) days’ prior written notice to the party maintaining the sign in violation of this Code, may enter the property to remove the sign or signs in violation thereof. Any part aggrieved by such notice from the Administrator may resort to SEC. 15.12-3 of this Code for administrative relief.
Whenever it shall appear to the Administrator, other than in the instances above set forth in the preceding paragraph, that any sign has been constructed, erected, or is being maintained in violation of the Code provisions of the Town, such Administrator shall issue a notice in writing to the owner or lessee of the sign or to the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located. Such notice in writing shall inform the recipient(s) of the violation(s) depicted and shall direct said party to make such alteration, repair, or removal as is necessary to secure compliance with the Code of the Town. Fourteen (14) days from the date of the notice shall be deemed reasonable time, except in instances of mechanical or structural repair. Upon failure of the notice to comply with terms of the violation(s) so noticed within said time period, the Administrator is authorized to remove, alter, or appropriately repair the sign(s) in question for the benefit of the health, welfare, and safety of the general public. All expenses incident thereto shall be charged to said notice and subject to collection by court action by the Town.
Except as otherwise provided, the Administrator may remove or cause to be removed immediately any sign(s) without service of the appropriate notice if in the Administrator’s opinion the condition of the sign(s) is such as to present an immediate threat to the safety of the general public.
Any person aggrieved by any decision of the enforcement official relative to the provisions of this Code may within five (5) days of receipt of such decision appeal such decision to the Zoning Board of Appeals as provided in SEC. 15.12-3 of the Zoning Code. For purposes of this Section, receipt of an administrator’s decision shall be presumed on the fourth (4th) day after mailing.

SEC. 15.13-13 VARIATIONS. Variations as described hereinafter may be permitted by the Zoning Board of Appeals in appropriate cases, subject to the legislative intent specified in SEC. 15.13-2 of this Division, and standards established by SEC. 15.12-4 of the Zoning Code. The Zoning Board of Appeals shall have authority to grant variations from the maximum height, maximum area and minimum setback requirements of this Division.

SEC. 15.13-14 PENALTIES. The penalties of the Zoning Code are hereby adopted by reference and made a part hereof.

SEC. 15.13-15 SEVERABILITY. If any part, provision, portion, article, section or subdivision of this Sign Code or application thereof to any person or circumstance is held unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such holding does not affect other provisions or applications of this Sign Code which can be given effect without the invalid application or provision, and the provisions of this Sign Code are severable unless otherwise provided.

SEC. 15.13-16 PRESERVATION OF PENDING CLAIMS. The adoption of this new Division Thirteen shall not affect, abrogate or abridge any action now pending or any action that could be brought within the time provided by law for violation of Division Thirteen as the same existed prior to adoption of this new division.

(ENTIRE DIVISION 13 OF CHAPTER 15 – SIGNS – REVISED DECEMBER 17, 2001 BY ORD. NO. 4761)

Chapter 15 - Zoning Division 13 - Sign Regulations

Chapter 15 - Zoning
Division 13 - Sign Regulations