01-909 City Code Sign Ordinance CITY OF MERIDIAN
oRDINANCE NO. l'"q q
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN REPEALING CHAPTER 14 OF
TITLE 11, MERIDIAN CITY CODE AND ENACTING A NEW CHAPTER 14 OF TITLE
11 TO BE KNOWN AS SIGNS AND TO INCLUDE NEW SECTIONS TO BE
AS INTENT AND PURPOSE, DEFINITIONS, PROCEDURES, GENERAL
PROVISIONS AND REQUIREMENTS, PROHIBITED SIGNS, SIGNS FOR WHICH A
PERMIT IN NOT REQUIRED, CLASSIFICATION AND STATUS OF EXISTING
SIGNS, REGULATION OF S.IGN TYPES, SIGNS PERMITTED BY ZONING
DISTRICT, ADMINISTRATIObI, APPEALS, ENFORCEMENT, AND LIABILITY,
CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY AND VALIDITY; AND TO PROVIDE AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
NOW, TI-IEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF TIIE
CITY OF MERIDIAN, ADA COUNTY, IDAHO:
SECTION 1: That Chapter 14 of Title 11 of the Meridian City Code is hereby repealed.
SECTION 2: That Chapter 14 of Title 11 is hereby amended by the addition thereto of~ll new
sections and shall read as follows:
CHAPTER 14
SIGNS
SECTION 11-14-1: SHORT TITLE: This chapter may be cited as "Sign Ordinance".
SECTION 11-14-2: INTENT AND PURPOSE:
The City of Meridian is a community interested in providing a mixture of commercial,
industrial and residential uses that reside together. The general welfare of the citizens as
well as the economic stability of the City is dependent on maintaining a peaceful
coexistence between the various uses. The purpose of the sign ordinance is to identify and
enhance businesses while maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the City.
A sign is ~ecogni×ed as a vital ingredient in the free trade process upon which the City is
dependent. A good sign program will provide information to the public concerning a
particular business or use and will serve the visual and aesthetic desires of the
commtmity. The goal is to create a visual environment that will:
2.
3.
4.
Enhance the effectiveness of the signs;
Provide for the necessary competition;
Insure the public safety;
Increase the convenience of the citizen; and
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5. Maintain the identification and individual character of each business.
C. With these goals in mind, the City has adopted this ordinance, wh/ch is intended to:
Provide architectural and aesthetic harmony of signs as they relate to building
design and surrounding landscaping;
Provide regulations of sign size, height and quantity which will allow for good
visibility for the public and the needs of the business while providing for the
health and safety of the public by minimizing distractions to the motorist and
pedestrian;
Provide for sign regulations that will be compatible with the building, siting, and
the land uses the signs are intended to identify;
Provide for maintenance of existing signs and a program for bringing non-
conforming signs into conformance with the standards of this ordinance as
changes are made to the signs or businesses;
Provide procedures which will facilitate the efficient processing of sign
applications; and
Provide design criteria which will promote attractive and effective signs for
Meridian residents, businesses, employees and visitors.
SECTION 11-14-3, DEFINITIONS:
ABANDONED
SIGN:
A sign which no longer serves to
advertise a bona fide business,
lessor, owner, or activity
conducted or product available on
the premises where such sign is
located.
ALLEY:
A public or private way with an
improved driving surface of not
less than sixteen feet (16') nor
more than twenty feet (20') wide
and with a platted width not wider
than necessary to accommodate
said driving surface, drainage,
utilities, fencing and appurtenant
facilities, affording only
secondary means of access to
abutting property at the back or
side of a property.
ANIMATED SIGN:
A sign, any visible part of which
blinks, flashes, moves or changes
color, regardless of the source of
Sign Ordinance -- Page 2 of 41
ARCHITECTURAL
BLADE:
AWNING:
A~NING SIGN:
energy causing the an/marion;
except signs performing a public
service function indicating time,.
temperature, stock market
quotations or similar services.
Roof sign or projecting sign with
no legs or braces which is an
integral part of the building
sta'ucture, rather than an object
added to or standing on the
building.
Any decorative dimensional
shape projecting from the exterior
surface of a building, constructed
of a supporting fi:amework.
The copy area or separate
background areas attached to an
awn/rig. To be computed as a
wall sign when awning is parallel
to the wall.
BACKGROUND
AREA:
The area comprising the portion
of a sign on which copy could be
placed, not including the
supporting structure. When
computing the area of sign
background, only the face or faces
which may be seen from one
direction at one time shall be
considered.
BANNER:
Any lightweight fabric or similar
material, usually with a message
attached, that is mounted to a
pole, building or other on-site
structure. Flags shall not be
considered banners.
BILLBOARD: A non-point-of-sale sign which
advertises a business,
organization, event, person, place
Sign Ordinance -- Page 3 of 41
or thing and which is typically
located adjacent to a state or
interstate highway fight-of-way.
CANOPY:
A permanent mol-like shelter
extending fi'om part or all of a
building face or fzee-standing and
constructed of some durable
material.
CHANGEABLE
COPY PANEL
(READER BOARD):
Manual (Readerboard) - A sign
on which copy is changed
manually.
Automatic - A sign on which
copy changes automatically.
CONSTRUCTION
SIGN:
Any sign which warns persons of
consmlction or demolition for a
project or which describes the
project and indicates the builder,
architect or others involved in the
project.
COPY:
Any combination of letters,
numbers or logos (identifying
print) which is intended to
inform, direct or otherwise
1~ansmit information.
COPY AREA:
The area of the sign occupied by
copy. R is computed by
measuring the area enclosed by
straight lines drawn to enclose the
extremities of the copy.
DIRECTIONAL
SIGN:
A sign which foremost contains
words such as "entrance," "enter,"
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FLAG,
CONVENTIONAL:
FLAG,
DECOKATIVE:
FREE-STANDING:
"exit," "in," "out," or other
similar words ora sign containing
arrows or characters indicating
traffic directions and used either
in conjunction with such words or
separately.
Any fabric or bunting containing
distinctive colors, patterns, or
emblems used as a symbol of a
government, political subdivision
or other such entity.
Any fabric or bunting containing
distinctive colors, pattems, or
symbols used to communicate
business identification and/or
attract, distract, hold, direct or
focus public attention.
A sign whose background or copy
area is wholly supported by a
column(s), pole(s), foundation;
pedestal or other support structure
in or upon the ground.
GRAND OPENING:
HEIGHT OF SIGN:
The distance measured vertically
from the adjacent street grade as
measured from the top of curb (or
edge of pavement where no curb
A promotional activity used by
newly established businesses,
within 2 months after occupancy,
to inform the public of their
location and service available to
the community. Grand opening
does not mean an annual or
occasional promotion of retail
sales by a business.
Sign Ordinance - Page 5 of 41
HOLIDAY
DECORATION
SIGN:
ILLUMINATED
SIGN:
LEGAL NON-
CONFORMING
SIGN:
LIGHTING,
DIRECT:
LIGHTING,
INDIRECT OR
INTERNAL:
MANSARD ROOF:
exists) to the highest point of the
sign or visual appurtenances. The
height of any landscape berm or
other structure erected to support
or ornament the sign shall be
measured as part of the sign
height. Archltecmral
appurtenances on the sign are
allowed up to 15% of the sign
height.
Temporary signs, in nature of
decorations, clearly incidental to
and customarily associated with
any national, local or religious
holiday.
A sign which uses a source of
light for illumination.
Any sign which does not conform
to the requirements of this Code,
but which was legally erected
prior to the adoption of this Code.
Lighting, the source of which is
visible to a viewer and/or which
is reflected from the surface ora
sign or building.
Lighting for which the source of
light is located in such a manner
that the light must travel through
a translucent material other than
the bulb or tube necessary to
enclose the light source, which
material has the effect of
dispersing the light before it
strikes the eye of the viewer.
A sloped facade architecturally
able to be ~eated as a building
wall.
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MULTIPLE COPY:
OFF-PREMISE
SIGN:
ORIENTATION:
PENNANT:
PERMANENT
SIGN:
PORTABLE SIGN:
That part of a sign which
advertises or bears information
not related to the name of the
business or the principal product
or service being provided on the
premises, and may not comprise
more than thirty percent (30%) of
the total copy of the sign.
A sign which is not related to the
property upon which it is located
or to the activity being conducted
thereon.
The placement ora sign in
accordance with its primary
visibility from a particular
location.
Any lightweight plastic, fabric, or
other material, whether or not
containing a message of any kind,
suspended fi-om a rope, wire, or
string, usually in series, designed
to move hi the wind. The display
of a single pennant, unattached to
another, may be regarded as a
type of decorative flag.
Any sign intended and
constructed to be long term in
nature.
Any sign not permanently
attached to the ground or other
permanent sign or structure, or a
sign designed to be transported,
including, but not limited to,
signs designed to be transported
by means of wheels; "T" flame
signs; sandwich board signs;
inflatable signs; hot air balloons;
umbrellas used for advertising;
and signs attached to or painted
on vehicles parked and visible
Sign Ordinance - Page 7 of 41
PROJECTING SIGN:
fi'om the public right-of-way,
unless said vehicle is primarily
used in the normal day-to-day
operations of the business other
than that of advertising.
A sign other than a wall sign,
which projects from and is
supported entirely by a wall of a
building or other structure.
PROJECTION:
PROMOTIONAL
SIGN:
PUBLIC SERVICE
INFORMATION
SIGN:
REAL ESTATE
SIGN:
REVOLVING OR
OSCILLATING
SIGN:
The distance by which a sign
extends over public property or
beyond the building line.
A temporary sign to promote the
sale of new products, new
management, new hours of
operation or a new service.
A sign which provides general
public service information such as
time, date, temperature, weather,
directional information and
messages of interest to the
traveling public.
Any sign pertaining to the sale,
lease or rental of land or
buildings.
Any sign that incorporates
movement of the structure or any
portion thereof.
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ROOF SIGN:
Any sign mounted on the roof of
a building~ roof being defined by
the Uniform Building Code. A
mansard roof is treated as a wall.
SIGN:
Any device, fixture, placard, or
structure that uses any color,
form, graphic, illumination,
symbol, or writing to advertise,
announce the purpose of, or
identify the purpose of a person
or entity, to communicate
information of any kind to the
public.
SIGN STRUCTURE:
Any structure which is
specifically designed to support a
sign, including decorative cover.
STREET
FRONTAGE:
Distance measured along the
property line, which iionts upon a
street or alley or other principal
thoroughfare.
"SUPER"
GRAPHICS:
Any abstract mosaic, mural or
painting or graphic art technique
or any combination thereof.
TEMPORARY
SIGN:
Any sign displayed solely for
short-term announcement,
message or advertisement and for
infrequent and limited time
periods. (See Section 11-14-7.A.
and Section 11-14-9. H. for
specific terms).
UNDER CANOPY
SIGN:
VISION TRIANGLE:
A sign suspended below the
overhang or roof of a canopy.
The boundaries of an area at the
Sign Ordimmce -- Page 9 of 41
WALL AREA:
WALL SIGN OR
FASCIA SIGN:
WINDOW SIGN:
intersection of two (2) public
roads or the intersection of a
public road and driveway
designated for the purpose of
public health and safety. For two
(2) public roads, the area is
defined by measuring from the
intersection of the edge of
pavement a distance of 40 feet
(40') along each mad. For a
public road and driveway, the
area is defined by measuring
the intersection of the property
line adjacent to the roadway and
the comer of the driveway twenty
feet (20') along the roadway and
ten feet (10') along the driveway.
Wall area is defined as
multiplying the total lineal
elevation of the build'rog (or the
leased portion thereof) by the
distance from the roof line to
pedestrian grade.
Any sign which is attached,
erected or painted on the exterior
wall of a building with the
exposed face of the sign parallel
to the wail.
Any sign, picture, symbol, or
combination thereof, designed to
commurdcate information about
an activity, business, commodity,
event, sale, or service, that is
placed inside a window or upon
the window panes or glass and is
visible from the exterior of the
window.
Sign Ordinance -- Page I0 of 41
SECTION 11-14-4: PROCEDURES:
Ao
Permits Required: Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, it shall be unlawful for
any person to erect, construct, enlarge, move or convert any sign in the City, or cause the
same to be done, without first obtaining a sign permit through the Planning & Zoning
Department. A permit shall not be required for a change of copy on any sign, nor for the
repainting, cleaning or other normal maintenance or repair of a sign or sign slructure for
which a permit has previously been issued in accordance with this Code, provided that
the sign or sign structure is not altered in any way.
All signs must comply with the applicable provisions in the current version of the
Uniform Building Code and Uniform Sign Code as adopted by the City of Meridian.
Additionally, si~,~ containing electrical wiring shall be subject to the provisions of the
Electrical Code. Electrical permits shall be obtained for all electric signs.
Every sign permit issued by the City shall become null and void if erection or construction
on-site is not commenced within one (1) year from the date the permit was issued. If work
authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for one year any time aRer the work
is commenced, a new perimt shall be obtained.
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Application for Sign Permit: Application for a sign permit shall be made to the Planning
and Zoning Department and shall be accompanied by such information as may be
required to assure compliance with the Uniform Sign Code and all appropriate regulations
of the City. The City may impose more strict standards than these regulations if the
proposed sign is determined to exceed what is necessary for adequate identification.
At a minimum, the sign application shall include the following information:
All Sign ~'vnes
Scaled architectural details and building elevations.
Complete text to appear on sign (business name, logo, sub-titles, etc.),
including size and lettering style.
All sign dimensions (including base, wall area, background area).
Construction materials.
Sign and lettering colors.
Free-Standing & Planned Sign Programs
Landscaping details for sign base area.
Site Plan information (location of buildings, parking lots, driveways,
overhead power lines, right-of-way lines, etc.).
An accurate indication on the Site Plan of the proposed location of each
present and future sign of any type (incidental signs need not be shown).
Sign Ordinance - Page 11 of 41
Eo
Fo
H°
Any signs on contiguous, shared-fontage properties within 25 feet of
proposed sign(s).
Other information as required by the Planning Director.
Conditional Use Permit Sign Requirements: All development applications that require a
Conditional Use Permit (in accordance with Title 11, Zoning Ordinance) must submit the
following sign details with the Conditional Use application.
2.
3.
4.
Sign type (i.e. single flee-standing, Center sign).
Maximum background area.
Proposed sign height.
Proposed sign location.
If the Conditional Use Permit is approved, a standard sign permit application (per
subsection B. above) must be submitted wkich demonstrates compliance with the
approved Conditional Use Permit.
Fees: Fees for sign permit applications shall be determined by and paid to the Building
Depan~nent at the time of sign permit issuance.
Perm/ssio'n to Install: No person shall erect, construct or maintain any sign upon any
property or building without the written consent of the owner or authorized representative
of the owner.
Issuance or Denial: Except in the case of an off-premise sign, the Planning Director
shall, within ten (10) working days of receipt of a complete application, issue a permit for
the erection, alteration, or relocation of a sign within the City. When an application
therefore has been properly made, a specified fee paid and upon the finding that the sign
complies with all appropriate laws and regulations of the City, the Director shall approve
the sign.
The Director shall deny an application for a sign which does not comply with all
appropriate laws and regulations of the City and shall give a written notice of the denial
with the reasons for such denial or the conditions placed on the application by Planning &
Zoning Commission or City Council. The Director shall, in writing, suspend or revoke
permit when it is found that the permit was issued on the basis of fi-aud or misstatement
of fact.
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 tm/awful sign.
Inspection Markings: All pemmnent signs regulated by this Ordinance shall be marked
with the sign permit number. This marking shall be permanently placed on the exterior
Sign Ordinance -- Page 12 of 41
face of the sign or the support smtcture in a location where the information will be readily
visible, legible, and accessible for inspection after installation and erection.
SECTION 11-14-5: GENERAL PROVISIONS AND REQUIllEMENTS:
The following requirements shall apply to siLms in all zoning districts:
Abandoned Non-Conforming Signs: Except as otherwise provided in this Code, any sign
located on property which pertains to a time, event or purpose which no longer applies to
that property and has been continuously vacant for a period exceeding six (6) months
shall be deemed as abandoned. A non-conforming abandoned sign is prohibited and shall
be immediately removed upon notice by the City or brought into full compliance by the
owner of the sign or owner of the property.
Abandoned Conforming Signs: Except as otherwise provided in this Code, any sign
located on property which pertains to a time, event or purpose which no longer applies to
that property and has been continuously vacant for a period exceeding six (6) months
shall be deemed as abandoned. Conforming abandoned sign structures may remain.
However, the business name panels shall be :removed immediately. Such signs must be
maintained in an aesthetically-pleasing manner according to the standards in Paragraph C
of this section.
Co
Sign Maintenance and Repair: All signs shall be continually maintained in a state of
good appearance, security, safety and repair throughout their life. Nothing in this code
shall relieve the owner or user of any sign or owner of property on which a sign is located
fxom maintaining the sign in a safe condition and in a state of good repair.
Maintenance requirements include, but are not limited to, the following situations: Any
metal pole covers and sign cabinets shall be kept flee of mst and mst stains; any
internally illuminated sign cabinets or sign panels which have been damaged shall remain
unilluminated until repaired; all abandoned signs shall either install blank opaque panels
or reverse the existing panels to avoid exposing any internal illumination; any signage
which has been damaged to such extent that they may pose a hazard to passersby shall be
repaired or removed immediately.
Blanketing of Signs: No sign in any zone shall be erected in the same horizontal plane
with other sig~s unless spaced at least 25 ft. apart.
Signs Adjacent to Residentially Zoned Areas: Any sign or structure located on a lot
which is adjacent to a residentially zoned lot shall be set back so as to meet the side, rear
and f~ont yard setback requirements of said adjoining residential district if such
residential setback requirements exceed those of the commercial district. In any event, no
sign surface or area facing the side or rear lot line of an abutting residentially zoned lot
shall be located within fifty feet (50') of such side or rear lot line. Flasking and/or
animated signs shall be prohibited within one hundred feet (100') of any residentially
Sign Ordinance - Page 13 of 41
[.
zoned property. Distance shall refer to the linear measurement in either direction on the
street to which the sign faces only. No sign shall be designed or located such that more
than one-half(½) footcandle of light fall occurs at ground level at the property llne of
residentially zoned property.
Clear Vision and Sight Triangles: Signs shall not be permitted in the sight triangle as
defined, interpreted and applied by the Ada County Highway District and the City of
Meridian, as defined in this Chapter, except at a height of less than three feet (3') and
greater than ten feet (10') to the bottom of the sign display surface or sign area. Sign
structures above three feet (3') in height having a projected width of greater than one foot
(1') shall not be permitted in sight triangles. Under unusual circumstances, the Planning
Director may modify the d'uneusiens and restrictions of a sight triangle at a specific
location, based on technical expertise as may be offered by the Ada County Highway
District.
Signs for Non-Conforming Uses: Signs and sign structures erected for legal non-
conforming uses as defined in Title 11, Chapter 5 of the Zoning Ordinance are accessory
to the main use. Such signs may not be enlarged, altered, or relocated without securing
the approyal of the Planning Director.
Street-Ground Elevation Differences: Ifa street elevation to which the sign is oriented is
more than the grade elevation at the base of the sign structure, then the street elevation
shall be used in determining the permitted height of signs erected upon the ground. This
provision shall apply only to free-standing signs.
Animation:
Animation is prohibited on all signs in Residential, L-O, C-N, C-C and T-E
zoning districts.
In C-G and I-L zohing districts, animation is allowed for a max/mm of 20% of
the sign background area. Sign structures may not move.
Public middle school and [Ligh schools shall be allowed one (1) on-premise,
animated sign where the animation is a ma×~mum of 20% of the sign background
area, regardless of the zone in which the school is located.
Direct light sources shall not exceed 40 watts or 60 milhumps. Flashing and/or
animated signs shall be prohibited within one hundred feet (100') of any
residentially zoned property.
Separation Requirements from Utility Power Lines: Signs shall be located in such a way
that they maintain horizontal and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors
in accordance with National Electric Safety Code specifications, as reviewed and
determined by the local power company. Applicants are required to contact the local
Sign Ordlnanee -- Page 14 of 41
electric company before erecting a sign nearer than twenty-five feet (25') of electric
power lines. No sign shall be placed within a power line easement without approval of the
holder of such easement.
Ko
Design: Pole support structures shall always be covered. Covering shall be designed to
fully enclose the pole(s). Paint or wraps shall not be permitted types of covering.. Signs
shall incorporate design and building materials that complement the architectural theme
of the building for which the sign identifies.
Landscape Base Requirement: All free-standing signs shall be set entirely within a
landscaped area having at least the same square footage as the background area of the
sigr~ If none exists, then a landscaped base as reviewed and approved by the Planning &
Zoning Department shall be created as a condition of approval.
Street Address: All free-standing signs, except as otherwise approved for residential
subdivisions, shall include the street address(es) of the subject parcel. The placement of
the street address on the sign shall be in addition to any address'required to be placed on
the building. Numbering shall be a minimum of 3.5 inches tall and be of a contrasting
color. Street addresses shall not be included in the calculation for sign background area,
except for those portions that exceed five (5) square feet. On multi-tenant signs, addresses
shall be dealt with during the Planned Sign Program application. Signs that identify
multiple buildings and/or addresses may provide a range of addresses.
SECTION 11-14-6 PROI-IIBITED SIGNS:
The following types of signs are prohibited in all districts:
A°
Signs Within Public Right-of-Way Or Upon City-Owned Property. Signs or posters which
are within or visible from a public right-of-way and are tacked, pasted, or otherwise affixed
to or upon the walls of buildings, barns, sheds, or upon trees, poles (including, but not
limited to, power poles), posts, fences, bridges, or other structures, except official public
notices posted by a public officer.
Portable signs, banners, pennants, strings of lights, ribbons, streamers, spinners, twirlers
or propellers, balloons, bubble machines and similar devices of a carnival nature except
as may be permitted by Section 11-14-7.A. or Section 11-14-9.H. of this Ordinance.
Traffic Conflict Sigm, Signs which because of color, wording, design, movement,
location or illumination resemble or conflict with any traffic-control device or with the
safe and efficient flow of traffic.
D. Signs wl~ch emit any sound, odor or visible matter.
E. Abandoned Non-Conforming Signs. (See Section 11-14-5 A)
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Any sign erected and constructed wholly on and over the roof of a building, supported by
the roof smacture or extending vertically above the highest portion of the roof.
Vehicle Signs. The parking of any vehicle or trailer, on either public or private property
which is visible from a public fight-of-way, which has affixed to it a sign which is
intended to attract or direct customers to a business on or near the property is prohibited.
This is not intended to apply to standard advertising or identification practices where such
advertising displays are painted on or permanently attached to a business or commemial
vehicle which is actively being used by the business.
H. Strobe lights.
Off-premise signs, except as permitted and defined in Sections I 1-14-7.A.4, 11-14-9.E.
and 11-14-9.3'.
SECTION 11-14-7 SIGNS FOR WHICH A PER.MIT IS NOT REQUIRED:
Temporary Simas: The temporary signs listed below do not require a permit, provided that
the construction, placement and use of the temporary signs are in conformance with
Sections 11-14-6. and 11-14-7. of this Ordinance. (See Section 11-14-9.H., Regulation of
Sign Types, for other standards related to temporary signs requh-ing a permit.)
General Te~lns:
Unless otherwise specified by this ordinance, temporary signs may be displayed
on a property for a maximum of thirty (30) days per year.
Temporary sign~ shall be removed upon expiration of the allowed or permitted
display period.
Any temporary sign with a background area over 32 square feet requires a permit
and will not be regulated under the terms of Section 11-14-7.A.
Construction signs, provided that such signs are erected no more than thirty (30)
days prior to the beginning of construction for which a valid building permit has
been issued, are confined to the site ofcoustmcfion, and are removed five (5) days
after completion of construction and prior to occupancy. The maximum
background area of coustruction signs is 32 s.f.
Holiday decoration sign. Such decorations may be of any type, number, area,
height, illumination and animation. (See definition in Section 11-14-3.)
Portable signs, balloons displayed below the flee-standing sign height allowances
per zoning district, banners, and decorative flags may be used only for the
following events: (I) drives and events of civic, philanthropic, educational or
Sign Ordinance ,- Page 16 of 41
10.
religious organizations and (2) grand openings. Only one (I) "Grand Opening"
type sign shall be permitted for the life ora business at the same location. A
subsequent "Grand Opening" sign may be permitted when business ownership has
transferred to a new owner.
One (1) real estate sign per frontage on any lot or parcel provided it is removed
within seven (7) days after the sale, rental or lease has been consummated. For
residential sale properties, one directional sign per real estate company shall be
permitted per subdivision entrance, but only upon common lots owned by the
Homeowner's Association.
Temporary window signs (prohibited in residential zones) provided that the
temporary signs shall not exceed twenty-five (25%) of the window area, and the
combined total copy area of temporary and permanent window signs shall not
exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total window area.
Hand held signs.
Public notices posted by public officials in the performance of their duties.
Residential Yard / Garage / Estate sale signs: Display is not to exceed one day
prior to the date of the sale with removal within 24 hours following the last day of
the sale. Such signs may be of any number and type, provided that each sign does
not exceed 12 square feet in area.
Promotional signs (as defined in Section 11-14-3) when used within the following
guidelines:
ao
The following types of temporary promotional signs may be used: "A"
and "T" frame signs, balloons displayed below the free-stand'mg sign
height allowance per zoning district, banners, decorative flags and window
signs.
A maximum of one (1) promotional sign, excluding any window signs,
may be displayed per business at any one time.
Co
The background area (size) of a promotional sign may not exceed 16
square feet.
do
Temporary promotional signs may not be attached to the support structure
ora flee-standing sign, and must comply with the permanent sign setback
requirements.
Political or Campaign Signs.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 17 of 41
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In Residential or Limited Office districts, one or more non-illuminated,
temporary signs are permitted per lot for each candidate or issue on behalf
of candidates for public office or measures on the ballot, provided that:
i. The property owner grants p,~mission for the erection of the sign.
ii.
Campaign signs shall be erected not earl/er than sixty (60) days
prior to the election at which time the candidates or measures will
be voted upon and shall be removed wittfin ten (10) days after such
election.
iii.
No such sign shall be located closer than two feet (2') to any
property line unless attached to a building.
In Commercial and Industrial districts., one or more temporary signs are
permitted on a lot for each candidate or issue on behalf of a candidate for
public office, or of a measure on the ballot, or announcing a campaign,
drive or event of a civic, philanthropic educational or religious
organization or nature, provided that:
i. The property owner grants permission for the erection of the sign.
Any such signs shall be erected not earlier than sixty (60) days
prior to the election, campaign or event and shall be removed
within ten (10) days after such election, campaign or event.
iii. No such sign shall be a roof sign.
Political or campaign signs are prohibited on all public property including
but not limited to rights-of-way, parks, schools and public buildings,
unless as specifically allowed in writing by the public entity having
jurisdiction of those properties.
Permanent Simas: The following permanent signs are allowed without a permit:
1. Directional or Public Service Information signs.
Conventional flags, emblems or insignia of any national or political subdivision or
corporation.
Governmental signs for the control of traffic or other regulatory purposes, or signs
of public service companies indicating danger, which are erected by or on the
order of a public officer in the performance of public duty.
4. House numbers and name plates.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 18 of 41
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
Interior signn located within the interior of any building or structure that are not
visible from the public right-of-way.
'`No Trespassing" or "No Dumping" signs not to exceed one and one-half (1 ½)
square feet in area per sign and not exceeding four (4) in number per lot, except
that special permission may be obtained from the Planning Director for additional
signs under proven special circumstances.
Memorial signs or tablets, names or buildings and date of erection when cut into
any masonry surface or inlaid so as to be pan of the building.
Occupant signs not to exceed one for each dwelling unit indicating the name of
the occupant, or the location or identification of a home or professional office
except as limited by the zoning district encompassing the use.
Plaques or nameplate signs of not more than two and one-half (2 ½) square feet in
area which are fastened directly to a building.
Public signs required or specifically authorized for a public purpose by any law,
statute or ordinance, which may be of any type, number, area, height above grade,
location, illumination or animation as required by the law, statute or ordinance
under which the signs are erected.
Historical signs or markers.
Permanent window signs (prohibited in residential zones) provided that
permanent signs shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25 %) of the window area,
and the combined total copy area of temporary and permanent wIndow signs shall
not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total window area.
Signs in the display windows of a business, which are incorporated in a display of
merchandise.
Symbols or Insignia: Religious symbols, commemorative plaques ofreco~i~ed
historical agencies, or identification emblems of religious orders or historical
agencies, provided that no such symbol plaque or identification emblem shall
exceed four (4) square feet in area, and provided further that all such symbols,
plaques and identification emblems shall be placed flat against a building.
Warning Signs: Signs warning the public of the existence of danger, ora size as
may be necessary, to be removed upon subsidence of danger. Such signs shall not
contain advertising material.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 19 of 41
16.
Any sign which is oriented only to the property on which it is located and is not
visible from the public fight-of-way.
17.
A permit shall not be required for a change of copy on any sign, nor for the
repainting, cleaning or other normal maintenance or repair ora sign or sign
structure for which a permit has previously been issued in accordance with this
code, provided that the sign or sign structure is not substantially altered in any
way.
SECTION 11-14-8 CLASSIFICATION AND STATUS OF EXISTING SIGNS:
Signs in existence prior to enactment of this Ordinance (dated 02/06/01) will fall under one of the
three (3) following classifications and be subject to procedures and actions as described.
Conforming: A sign which conforms to the requirements of this Code. These signs may
remain and continue to be governed according to this Ordinance.
Legal Non-Conforming: Any sign which does not conform to the requirements of this
Code, but which was legally erected in either of the following circumstances: (1) a valid
permit was issued for the sign prior to the adoption of this Code; or (2) the sign required
no permit but was a legal sign prior to the adoption of this Code. No temporary or
prohibited signs shall be eligible for "legal non-conforming" status.
A legal non-conforming sign shall lose its legal non-conforming status if:
There is a change of background area constituting fifty percent (50%) or
more of the total existing sign background area. A change of face of a
single tenant name panel that constitutes less than fifty percent (50%) of
the total existing sign background area in a multi-tenant sign except, for
reader boards, shall not constitute grounds for modification of a non-
conforrrdng sign.
2. The sign is moved to a position that violates this Ordinance; or
3. The sign is replaced; or
A new or additional sign is provided for the business using the non-
conforming sign; or
5. There is a change in the use of the property that the sign is located on; or
There are alterations or enlargements to the site or building on the property
in excess of twenty-five percent (25 %) or more of the existing site or
building. The mount of alterations shall be cumulative over time; or
Sign Ordinance -- Page 20 of 41
The legal non-confonning sign has been damaged to the extent of more
than 50% of its reproduction value.
Upon occurrence of any of the above events, a non-conforming sign shall lose its legal
status. Thereafter, the sign owner shall remove the sign within sixty (60) days, unless
he/she is able to bring it into compliance with this Code.
Illegal: Any sign which does not conform to the requirements of this Code and for which
a permit was never legally issued and which cannot meet the requirements of a legal non-
conforming sign. Illegal signs must be removed or brought into conformity by the
property owner within six (6) months of the date of the adoption of this Ordinance or
rfinety (90) days after notification from the Planning Director, whichever is earlier.
SECTION 11-14-9 REGULATION OF SIGN TYPES:
[Note: This section should be used in correlation with the sign types listed in Tables A-H in
Section 11-14-10.]
Rent, Lease and Sale Signs: In addition to the provisions of Tables A-H, the regulations
in Section 11-14-17.A.4. and 11-14-7.A.8. shall also apply.
Construction Signs: In addition to the provisions of Tables A-H, the regulations in
Section 11-14-7.A.1. shall also apply.
Co
Other Signs: In addition to the provisions of Tables A-H, the following standards shall
apply specifically to Directional Signs, which are allowed without a permit under Section
11-14-7.B.:
Directional Signs: Directional signs shall be no greater than four
(4) square feet in area and no more than four feet (4') in height. If business
identification is used, then it shall be secondary in all aspects to the primary use of
these signs for directional purposes as defined.
Free-Standing Signs(Single Building): In addition to the provisions of Tables C-H, the
following standards shall apply to all free-standIng signs not part of a Planned Sign
Program:
Number Allowed: No building occupied by a single tenant may be signed
with more than one (1) free-standing sign un/ess the sign is sited on a
second public street frontage of the lot, or approved as a directional sign.
Maximum Height and Background Area: The sign height and background
area shall be as provided In Tables C-H.
o
Setbacks and Location: The sign shall be located as near the primary
access driveway as practical. In all zoning districts, no part of the sign,
Sign Ordinance -- Page 21 of 41
including the footing, shall be located closer than five feet (5') fi:om the
side and rear property lines, unless greater separation is required. In
commemial and industrial zones, no part of the sign, including the footing,
shall be located closer than one foot (1') from the front property line. In
residential and office zones, the setback shall be a minimum of five feet
(5') fi:om the from property line.
Illumination: Signs may utilize direct, indirect or intemal fighting, except
that the use of direct lighting in or adjacent to residential zones is
prohibited.
Center Signs (Planned Sign Program): In addition to the provisions of Tables C-H, the
following standards shall apply to all signs within a Planned Sign Program:
Planned Sign Program: Alt developments in commemial, office or
industrial zones comprising more than one (1) principal building on a Iot
or buildings with more than one (1) occupant and proposing one (1) or
more fi:ce-standing signs shall adopt a comprehensive Planned Sign
Pmgrara. The sign program shall be filed with the Planning Director and
shall specify standards for consistency among all signs within the
development. (See application requirements in Section 11-14-4.B.)
The purpose ora Planned Sign Program is to estabhsh consistent signage
criteria tailored to specific, multi-building or multi-tenant developments.
The intent is to provide for flexible sign criteria that promotes superior
design through architectural integration of the site, buildings and signs. If
approved, a Planned Sign Program may allow for increases to the
background area, height, and other standards for wall signs.
The approval of a Planned Sign Program shall be required prior to
issuance of a building permit. Existing developments in the City which do
not have a comprehensive sign program shall be required to adopt one
when the first tenant in the project requests a change of sign background
area as defined in this ordinance. Thereafter, all subsequent changes of
face in the project shall be required to conform to the adopted program.
Any modifications to an approved sign or sign program must be re-
submitted for approval by either the Planning Director or the Commission
(at Director's discretion).
Review Procedure Required: The installation of any sign may only occur atSer a
Planned Sign Program has been submitted, reviewed and approved by the
Planning Director. Thereafter, a sign that conforms to the approved sign program
may be permitted by the Planning Director. Approval ora Planned Sign Program
does not waive the permit requirements for individual signs. In cases of existing
sites that have no approved sign program, ail signs shall be regulated in
Sign Ordinance -- Page 22 of 41
conformance with all Other sections of this code until such time as a Planned Sign
Program is submitted, reviewed and approved.
2. Standards:
Design: The sign shall incorporate materials, colors and a design motif
that is compatible with and complements the architectural theme and style
of the building or complex for which the sign identifies. Sign designs
shall reflect a common theme and incorporate similar design elements in
terms of materials, letter style, illumination, sign type and sign shape.
Sign Location: Free-standing signs shall be located as near to the pr/mary
access driveway as practical. Free-standing signs in commercial and
industrial zones shall not be closer than one hundred fifty feet (150') from
any residentially zoned property. Distance, for the purpose of establistfing
location, shall refer to the linear distance in either direction on the street to
which the sign faces only.
Number: One center sign per one-thousand feet (1000') of street frontage,
or fraction thereof, may be permitted. In addition to the main center sign,
one (1) free-standing sign for each building within the center is permitted,
with size and background area in accordance with Tables C-G, provided
that no sign exceeds a height often feet (10') and background area of
seventy (70) square feet.
de
With the exception of roof signs, wall signs are permitted in any number,
location, or orientation, except toward an adjoining residential property,
provided that the total square footage does not exceed 18% of the wall
face upon which the sign is placed.
Sign height and placement shall be consistent throughout the development
site.
Binding Effect: After approval of a Planned Sign Program, no signs shall be
constructed except in conformance with such plan. Upon approval, the sign
program shall apply to all existing and future tenants. This Planned Sign Program
shall be included in the lease for each individual tenant. Proof of said inclusions
shall be submitted to the Planning Depamuent by the lessor.
Wall Signs: In addition to the provisions of Tables C-H, the follow/ng standards shall
apply to all wall signs:
Area: For a single wall sign, the sign shall not exceed 18% of wall area up to a
maximum of 75 sq. ft. in office zones. "Wall Area" shall mean the wall surface of
a single tenant structure or the storeffont of a multi-tenant structure.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 23 of 41
2. Height: Not to exceed the height of the wall face up to a maximum of thirty (30)
lc. Letter/ag within the copy area shall not exceed a height of three (3) feet.
3. Number Allowed: Each business in office, commercial or industrial zones with
exterior frontage shall be permitted one wall sign. One additional wall sign shall
be permitted per exterior building wall under the conditions below, provided there
is no more than one wall sign on each side of the building:
a. The sign background area may be borrowed from that allowed on the
building wall facing the street;
b. The sign background area is a maximin of 9% of the building wall; and
c. The adjoining property is zoned commercial or industrial.
4. When a combination of wall and free-standing signs are used on a single site, the
total area for wall signs must be reduced by 50%.
5. Lighting: Direct illumination signs are prohibited.
6. Agimation, flashing lights, reader boards and revolving signs are prohibited.
7. The design of the sign, including color scheme, shall be compatible with the wall
face.
G. Projecting Signs:
1. Location: Projecting signs are prohibited in all zones except Old Town or as
approved under a Plarmed Sign Program. (See the Old Town Historic Sign
Ordinance.)
2. Maximum Background Area: Five percent (5%) of building face facing a local
street within the Old Town District, up to a maximum of 15 square feet; fifteen
percent (15%) in other zones where allowed. When both projecting and wall
signs are utilized, the allowable area for each sign type is to be reduced by fifty
percent (50%).
3. Projection above building height: No projecting sign shall ever project above the
building roof line.
4. Vertical Clearance: The minimum clearance over public rights-of-way shall be
twelve feet (12').
5. Lighting: Projecting signs shall have either direct or indirect lighting sources.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 24 of 41
Number Allowed: Where permitted, no more than one projecting sign per
business shall be allowed.
Projection from Wall: Projecting sig~s shall have a maximum projection often
feet (10') or to within two feet (2') oftha face of the curb, whichever is less.
Temporary Signs Requiring a Permit: The following temporary signs may be allowed
upon issuance of a permit from the Planning & Zoning Department.
The following guidelines shall apply to temporary sign permit applications for temporary
signs required to obtain permits under this Section. Signs listed in Section 11-14-7.A, are
excluded from these terms and application process.
A temporary sign permit may be issued per business up to a maximum of
20 days per permit and up to four (4) times per year, for a maximum of
80 days per year per business. A minimum of sixty (60) days must lapse
between each permit.
An annual temporary permit option will be provided so that a new
permit will not be required for each 20-day period. However, such
annual temporary sign permits must be renewed every year.
A fee orS10 per temporary permit, or $30 per annual perm/t, will be
charged by the City.
Street Banners stretched over public property that pertain to civic affairs
and are approved by the Planning Director.
No banner shall be allowed over public property for a longer
period than fourteen (14) days.
A substantial rope at least one inch (1") in diameter, not wire cable
or other metallic rope or wire, shall be used as the main support for
banners and two (2) one-half inch (½") ropes shall be used for
securing each lower comer;, and the banner shall have sufficient
wind holes.
2. Searchlights, when:
They are used by a business or enterprise once yearly for a
maximum period of seven (7) consecutive days, or for purposes of
the grand opening ora new enterprise or an enterprise under new
management for a max/mum period of seven (7) consecutive days,
and provided that;
Sign Ordinance -- Page 25 of 41
In no case shall the beam of the searchlight flash against any
building or sweep an arc greater than forty five degrees (45 degree)
fi.om vertical.
Balloons and other inflated devices, and other temporary signs which
exceed the free-standing sign height allowances per zoning district may be
permitted by the Planning Director provided that:
a. No more than one such sign is allowed per year;
b. The sign is securely fastened.
4. Special off-site auto sales signage.
5. Portable seasonal and special sale signs.
General Interest Directional Signs: Except as otherwise provided, sign regulations
governing erection of non-accessory directional signs at street intersections and other
sppmpdate locations by City of Meridian for direction to places of general interest such
as colleges, auditoriums, fairgrounds, hospitals, airports, parks, playgrounds, and other
places are to be treated as public service information signs and regulated as such.
Billboards
1. Relocation
a°
Existing billboards may be allowed to relocate with a Conditional Use
Permit if the new site is approved based on the findings and criteria set
forth in Paragraph 2 of this Section. Existing off-premise signs of the
billboard category may be replaced structure for structure.
The Planning and Zoning Commission and City Cotmcil must make all of the
following findings in permitting a billboard relocation:
That the location and placement of the sign will not endanger motorists or
pedeslrians and does not interfere with the clear vision triangle at street,
raikoad, or street-driveway intersections.
bo
That the sign will not cover or blanket any prominent view of a structure
or faqade of historical or architectural significance.
That the sign will not Obstruct views of users of adjacent buildings to side
yards, yards, or to nearby open space. This requirement does not include
views of distant vistas.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 26 of 41
That the sign will not negatively impact the visual quality of a public open
space such as a recreation facility, square, plaza, court yard and the like.
That the height of the sign is compatible with the heights of buildings in
the immediate area (300' radius from sign). Where the view of the sign is
obstructed by a building or buildings on the same or adjacent parcels, or
where the view to the business or businesses is located on the same or
adjacent parcels would be obstructed by the placement of the sign, the
height of the sign may not exceed the height of the building on the same or
adjacent parcel by more than twelve feet (12'). For safety masons the
mimmum clearance of a sign shall never be less than eight feet (8').
Height of sigus located in undeveloped areas (no buildings within 300')
shall not exceed 22' above grade.
f.
That the sign's lighting will not cause hazardous or unsafe driving
conditions for motorists and will not glare, reflect, or spill onto adjacent
business or residential area.
SECTION 11-14-10 SIGNS PERMITTED BY ZONING DISTRICT:
Signs for uses in zoning districts of the City shall conform with the dimensional, locational, and
other standards specified in Tables A-H below:
General Terms (applicable in all zones):
Allowable Siau Size Exchange for Comer Lots in All Zones
In all zones, land abutting more than one public street shall be allowed its quota of
sigmas on each street and up to twenty percent (20%) of the permitted sign size
quota on any street may be deducted thereffem and added to the second street
frontage.
1-84 Overlay Zone
There shall be an 1-84 Overlay Zone located within an area three hundred (300)
feet from and parallel to the right-of-way of 1-84 on both the north and south
sides. Free-standing signs and wall signs within the 1-84 Overlay Zone shall
comply with the following standards:
Only one (1) wall sign oriented to 1-84 shall be allowed per
business, or per tenant in a building which is occupied by two or
more tenants. However, not more than two (2) freeway-oriented
wall signs shall be allowed on any single building or structure.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 27 of 41
Maximum Free-standing Sign Height: A free-standing sign located
within the 1-84 Overlay Zone shall not exceed forty (40) feet in
height, as measured from the crown of the adjacent roadway.
Maximum Background Area: A free-standing sign located within
the 1-84 Overlay Zone shall be two (2) square feet of sign area per
linear foot of freeway frontage up to a maximum of three hundred
(300) square feet.
Spacing: The rain/mum distance between free-standing signs
within the 1-84 Overlay Zone is 500 feet.
5. No residential signs are permitted within the 1-84 Overlay Zone.
Sign Ordinance - Page 28 of 41
SECTION 11-14-11 AD1VHNISTRATION:
Ao
Inspection. The Planning Director and/or Building Inspector are hereby
empowered to enter or inspect, upon notification of the property owner
or manager, any building, structure or premises in the City on which, or
in connection with which a sign, is located, for the purpose of inspection
of the sign, its smactural and electrical connections, and to insure
compliance with the provisions of this Codei Such inspections shall be
carded out during business hours, unless an emergency exists.
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Maintenance. The Plavning Director shall have the authority to order the repair or
structural alteration for safety of signs which present a hazard to the public.
Signs Declared Illegal. Upon finding that any sign endangers public safety by reason of
inadequate maintenance, dilapidation or abandonment, the Planning Director may declare
the sign i~legal. The Director shall send the owner written notice that the sign has been
declared illegal, specifying the reasons why the sign endangers public safety, and order that
the sign be repaired or removed by the owner within thirty (30) days. If a sign determined
to be illegal presents an immediate and serious danger to the public, it may be immediately
removed by the City without prior notice and the removal costs charged to the owner.
SECTION 11-14-12 APPEALS:
Any person aggrieved by any decision of the Planning Director may make an appeal to the City
Council. Such an appeal must be made within ten (10) calendar days fi-om the date of the
decision.
SECTION 11-14-13 ENFORCEMENT:
The remedies provided in this section for violations or failure to comply with provisions of this
Code, whether civil, criminal, or for sign removal, shall be cumulative and shall be in addition to
any other remedy provided by law.
Ao
Revocation of Sign Permits. The Planning Director shall have the authority to revoke any
sign permit which has been granted when it has been determined that the sign authorized
by the permit has been constructed or is being maintained in violation of this Code or of
the conditions and limitations of the sign permit.
In a revocation proceeding, the planning Director shall follow the following procedures:
A notice of intent to revoke a sign permit shall be sent to the holder of the
permit, or to one of its representatives; or, if this is not possible, the notice
shall be posted in a conspicuous position at the entrance to the premises
and by the certified mailing of another copy of the notice to the last known
address of the permit holder.
Sign Ordinance -- Page 37 of 41
The permit shall be revoked within fifteen (15) days of the
posting of the notice of intent to revoke unless the cause of violation has
been removed and evidence of the same has been presented to the
Planning Director within that period.
Any action of permit revocation by the Planning Director may be
appealed directly to the City Council by filing a written notice of
such appeal with the Planning Department within ten (10) days
after the revocation of the permit.
Civil Remedies. The violation of or failure to comply with any of the provisions of this
Code, or the erection, use, display or the allowing of any sign not in compliance with all
of the provisions of this Code shall be and hereby is declared to be unlawful and is
declared to be a nuisance.
Injunction and Abatement: The City, through its authorized
agents, may initiate injunction or abatement proceedings or other appropriate
action in the courts again.qt anyperson who violates or fails to comply with any
provision of this Code, or against the erector, owner or user of an unlawful sign
or the owner of the property on which an unlawful sign is located, to prevent,
enjoin, abate or terminate violations of this Code and/or erection, use or display
of an unlawful sign.
Civil Penalty: Any person who violates or fails to comply with any of
theprovisions of this Code or the erector, owner or user of an unlawful sign or the
owner of property on which an unlawful sign is located shall be subject to a
maximum civil penalty of three hundred dollars ($300.00) for each day or portion
thereof that the use or display of the unlawful sign has continued, except that the
owner of property on which an unlawful sign is located, who is not also the owner
or user of the unlawful sign, shall be subject to the penalty only if demand for
removal or alteration of the unlawful sign shall have been mailed to said owner at
his last known address by registered mail, return receipt requested, and the
demand has remained uncomplied with for more than th/ny (30) days.
Criminal Penalty. The violation of or failure to comply with any of the provisions of th/s
Code or the erection, use, or display or the allowing of any unlawful sign is a
Misdemeanor. Each day or portion thereof upon which a violation occurs constitutes a
separate offense.
Removal of Unlawful Sign.
Any nnlawful sign which has not been removed within thirty (30) days after sign
permit revocation or expiration of the appropriate notice to remove period, may be
removed at the request of the Pla~ning Director and the costs charged to the
Sign Ordinance - Page 38 of 41
owner. If removal costs have not been paid and the sign reclaimed within sixty
(60) days of its removal by the City, the City, upon compliance with the
procedures specified in subsection E. of this Section, may proceed to sell or
otherwise dispose of the sign and apply the proceeds toward the costs of removal.
Any proceeds in excess of the costs of removal shall be paid to the owner.
Neither the City nor any of its agents shall be liable for any damage to the sign
when removed under this Section.
For all purposes hereinafter the owner of the premises shall be presumed to be the
owner of all sign~ thereon, urdess the contrary shall appear fi:om facts brought to
the attention of the City.
Sale of Sign Removed by City.
Notice of Sale. Not less than thirty (30) days before the sale or disposal ora sign
removed pursuant to Subsection D. ofth/s Section, the Planning Director shall
send to the owner written notice of the intent of the City to sell or dispose of the
sign. The notice shall specify the proposed manner of disposal and if the sign is
to be sold, shall specify the time an place of the sale. The owner may request a
hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission concerning the sale or other
proposed disposal of the sign. Such request shall be in writing and must be filed
with the Planning Director within ten (10) days of the date of the notice of sale.
Receipt of a request for hearing shall stay all proceedings with respect to the sale
or disposal of the sign.
Hearing. The Commission shall fix a reasonable time for the hear/ng and shall
notify the owner of the time and place thereof. The Commission shall either
approve, modify, or deny the sale or other proposed disposal of the sign and may
impose such conditions in connection therewith as it deems appropriate under the
ckcumstances.
Appeal to Council. The owner may appeal the decision of the Commission to the
City Council by filing written notice of appeal with the Planning Director within
ten (10) days after the decision has been filed by the Commission. Upon receipt of
an appeal, the Planning Director shall forward all necessary documents and
materials to the Council for review.
Action by Council. Within a reasonable time after receipt of an appeal, the
Council shall establish a date for hearing the appeal and shall notify the appealing
party, but no other notice of such hearing need be given. In reviewing the
decision of the Commission, the Council, upon due cause being shown may
affirm, wholly or partially, modify or reverse the decision of the Commission.
5. Conduct of Sales. All sales of signs having an estimated value in excess of five
Sign Ordinance -- Page 39 of 41
thousand dollars ($5,000.00) shall be accomplished through auction or formal
written bid to the highest responsible bidder after due notice inviting proposals.
All signs having an estimated value of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) or less
shall be sold on the open market to the highest responsible bidder in accordance
with the informal bidding procedures of the City, provided, however, that where
the value of the sign is such that the solicitation of bids is economically
unfeasible, or interest in bidding is limited, competitive negotiation procedures
may be followed in order to develop proposals of maximu.m advantage to
the City.
Assurance of Discontinuance. As an additional means of enforcing this Code, the
Plannin.g Director may accept an "Assurance of Discontinuance" of any act or practice
deemed in violation of this Code or of any regulation adopted pursuant hereto, from any
person engaging in, or who has engaged in such act or practice. Any such assurance shall
specify a time limit during which such discontinuance is to be accomplished. Failure to
perform the terms of any such assurance shall constitute prima facie proof of a violation
of this Code or any rule or regulation adopted pursuant hereto or order issued pursuant
thereto, Which make the alleged act or practice un/awful for the purpose of securing any
injunctive relief from the court of competent jurisdiction.
SECTION 11-14-14 LIABILITY, CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY AND VALIDITY
Liability. The provisions of this Code shall not be construed as relieving or limiting in
any way the responsibility or liability of any person erecting or owning any sign, for
personal injury or property damage resulting from the placing of a sign, or resulting from
the negligence or willful acts of such person, its agents, employees, or workmen in the
construction, maintenance, repair or removal of any sign erected in accordance with a
permit issued hereunder. Nor shall it be construed as imposing upon the City or its
officers or employees any responsibility or liability by reason of the approval of any
signs, materials, or devices under the provisions of this Code.
Conflicting Provisions. If any other provisions of the municipal code conflict with the
provisions of this division, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.
Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance or
its application to any person or circumstances is held invalid by the decision of any court
of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Code, or the application of the provisions
to other persons or circumstances is in effect and shall remain in full force and effect.
Validity of Other Laws. It is not intended by this Code to repeal, abrogate, annul or in
any way impair or interfere with existing provisions of other laws or ordinances, except
those specifically repealed by this Code, or with private restrictions places upon property
by covenant, deed or other private agreement. Where this Code imposed a greater
restriction on signs than is imposed or required by such existing provisions of the law,
ordinance, contract or deed, the provisions of this Code shall control.
Sign Ordinance - Page 40 of 41
SECTION 3: All ordinances, resolutions, orders or parts thereof in conflict
herewith are hereby repealed, rescinded and annulled.
SECTION 4: VALIDITY: The Meridian City Council hereby declares that any
section, paragraph, sentence or word of this Ordinance as adopted and amended herein be
declared for any reason to be invalid it is the intent of the Meridian City Council that it would
have passed all other portions of this Ordinance independent of the elimination herefirom of any
portion as may be declared invalid.
SECTION 5: SAVINGS CLAUSE: This Ordinance does not affect an action or proceeding
commenced or fight accrued before tiffs Ordinance takes effect.
SECTION 6: DATE OF EFFECT: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect after its
passage, approval and publication, according to law.
PASSED BY TFI~ CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MlgRIDIAN, IDAHO, this
.~ day of /~,~ P-.~ , 2001.
APPROVED BY THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO, this
day of /t~/-g~, 2001.
ATTEST:
City Clerk
Z:~ ~r orklM1Meridi~lMeridian l $3 60Ml Ord~nances
Robert D. Corrie -- -
P~nalO4OSOl. doc
Sign Ordinance - Page 41 of 41