Division 10 — CALCULATION OF SIGN AREA AND HEIGHT

Sign area is calculated as follows and depicted in Figure 48-1:

Figure 48-1

Calculation of Sign Area

(A) Single-faced signs.

(1) For signs having a distinct border or boundary, sign area is calculated by multiplying the length times the width or the entire surface contained within the border, boundary, sign board, or sign face.

(2) For signs without distinct border or boundary, sign area is calculated by computing the area of a simple geometric figure consisting of not more than eight perpendicular lines which contains all of the writing, representation, emblem, or other display of the sign.

(B) Double-faced signs. For signs with two identical faces, arranged back to back in parallel planes, and where the sign faces are separated by no more than 24 inches, the sign area must be calculated for one side only.

(C) Multi-faced sign. For a sign with more than one face, where such sign does not meet the standard of a doubleface sign described in this section, the area must be calculated by adding together the area of all sign faces visible from any one point.

(D) Measurement of sign height. Sign height is determined by measuring the distance from the base of the sign or sign pole at grade to the top of the highest attached component of the sign. Grade must be construed to be the lower of either:

(1) The existing grade before sign construction; or

(2) The newly established grade after construction, exclusive of any filling, berming, mounding, or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the sign.

(Ord. 1122, passed 10-18-04)

(A) Architectural context. Sign design must be compatible with the architectural design and details of the building the sign or signs serve, with other signs in the building, and with the business or activity that the sign or signs identify.

(B) Design elements. The following elements must be considered in sign design:

(1) Materials - Creativity in the use of materials is encouraged. Durable materials which are compatible in appearance to the building identified by the sign must be used.

(2) Colors - Sign colors must complement the building served, adjacent landscaping and buildings, and signs of adjacent businesses.

(3) Size - Sign size and height must be in scale with the building served and with surrounding buildings. Size and height must also be appropriate to the distance from which the sign is normally viewed.

(4) Letter style - Simple lettering styles must be used. Legibility must take priority over complexity in the design of the sign face.

(5) Placement - Monument and building- mounted signs are encouraged unless visibility, safety concerns, or site identification considerations dictate the use of a freestanding sign.

(6) Illumination - Illuminated signs must meet the standards specified in this chapter and the performance standards set forth in this code.

(Ord. 1122, passed 10-18-04)