Section 6.06 Sign Plans
Sign plans may be used to establish unique signage criteria to a given property or for a combination of properties that function as an integrated commercial complex.
A. Purpose. The purpose of a sign plan is to:
1. Allow for unique sign design based on the unique or unusual physical characteristics of a given property;
2. Provide the opportunity to adjust the balance of attached and detached sign allowances;
3. Encourage unified signage in commercial and industrial complexes; and
4. Encourage creative design of signs.
B. Application Requirements.
1. A written request signed by the property owner(s) and payment of the required fee.
2. A written project narrative describing the proposed sign plan with any deviations from current code requirements being requested.
3. Graphic illustrations depicting, at a minimum:
a. Proposed sign locations and sizes;
b. The proposed signs including sign base/structure for detached signs;
c. Type of illumination; and
d. Color and material boards for signs and sign structures.
C. Review Criteria and Sign Design.
1. Review Criteria. The Zoning Administrator may approve a sign plan containing elements that exceed by up to ten (10) percent the allowed height and area of signs as specified in this chapter if the sign plan conforms with at least one of the following criteria:
a. The development contains unique or unusual physical conditions, such as topography, proportion, size, or relation to a public street that would limit or restrict normal sign visibility; or
b. The proposed or existing development exhibits unique characteristics of land use, architectural style, site location, physical scale, historical interest, or other distinguishing feature(s) that represent a clear variation from conventional development; or
c. The proposed signage incorporates special design features such as lighting, materials and craftsmanship, murals, or statuaries that reinforce or are integrated with the building architecture.
2. Creative Design. Applications for consideration of a sign plan should include creative design elements that incorporate the design of the sign into the architecture of the building. Signs which go beyond the minimum guidelines provided in Section 6.07(G) by meeting the criteria below can increase their allowed sign area by an additional ten (10) percent. To qualify for the additional sign area, the sign shall:
a. Constitute a substantial aesthetic improvement to the site and shall have a positive visual impact on the surrounding area;
b. Be of unique design, and exhibit a high degree of thoughtfulness, imagination, inventiveness, and spirit;
c. Utilize or enhance the architectural elements of the building; and
d. Provide strong graphic character through the imaginative use of graphics, color, texture, quality materials, scale, and proportion.
D. Approval. The sign plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Zoning Administrator. (23-04, Amended, 10/17/2023, Deleted and replaced; 21-09, Amended, 05/18/2021, Deleted and replaced)