SIGN AND ADVERTISING CONTROL
Sections:
20.696.010 Title.
20.696.030 Definitions.
20.696.100 Signs exempt from regulation.
20.696.110 Official signs and safety signs.
20.696.120 Directory signs.
20.696.130 On-premises signs in agricultural areas.
20.696.140 Trade construction signs.
20.696.150 Real property sales signs.
20.696.160 Subdivision sales signs.
20.696.170 Open house.
20.696.180 Pre-lease signs.
20.696.200 Prohibited signs.
20.696.210 Abandoned signs.
20.696.220 Advertising on vehicles.
20.696.230 Traffic hazards.
20.696.240 Utility lines.
20.696.250 Removal of political signs.
20.696.260 Owners consent required.
20.696.295 Number
of freestanding signs.
20.696.300 Freestanding sign area tables, maximum area.
20.696.302 Height
and setback of freestanding signs.
20.696.305 Highway-oriented freestanding sign area tables,
maximum area.
20.696.310 Wall, window and projecting signs.
20.696.312 Commercial or industrial center sign.
20.696.315 On-premise signs.
20.696.320 Temporary sign permits
20.696.325 Area identification signs, residential and
institutional uses.
20.696.330 Area identification signs, non-residential
uses.
20.696.345 Roof-mounted signs.
20.696.350 Changeable copy (readerboard) signs.
20.696.355 Effect of exempt signs.
20.696.360 Construction and maintenance.
20.696.365 Projection limits.
20.696.370 Variance to sign area.
20.696.375 Master sign plan required.
20.696.380 Non-conforming sign.
20.696.385 Off premises public community facility signs.
20.696.390 Points of interest and community entry signs.
20.696.010 Title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the
“Douglas County Sign and Advertising Control.” (Ord.
763, 1996; Ord. 386. 1981) 
20.696.030 Definitions.
For definition of terms under this chapter, see Appendix
A of this title. (Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.100 Signs exempt
from regulation.
A permit is not required for any of the following signs provided the signs
are erected and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this chapter:
A. Professional occupation signs denoting only the name or firm name and
profession of an occupant in a commercial building, public institutional building
or dwelling house when the area of the sign does not exceed two square feet
for each professional occupant and is placed on or against a building;
B. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and dates of erection,
when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible
material and permanently affixed to the building or structure;
C. Identification nameplates or signs on apartment houses, rooming-houses
and trailer parks, public telephones and similar uses not exceeding four square
feet in area. The signs may be illuminated only by indirect light and only
if the use is in a commercial zone;
D. Bulletin boards not over fifteen square feet in area for public, charitable
and religious institutions when the bulletin boards are located on the premises
of the institutions and not visible from the public right-of-way;
E. Composite structures for community directory signs subject to the
following:
1. Before the installation of any structure, the location, size,
height, width and general design must be approved by the director as being in
conformance with the general purpose of this chapter through the design review
process;
2. A maximum of two composite structures are permitted on each main
entrance into Douglas County;
3. Additions or alterations of individual sections of the sign may
be made without the approval of the director, provided that the additions or
alterations do not exceed the total area and dimensions of the sign as approved
under the design review;
F. Off-premises directional signs advertising places of public worship
and assembly, hospitals, schools and charitable institutions subject to the
following:
1. The signs must be in the form of a standard traffic regulation
sign;
2. There must not be more than two signs advertising any one use
unless authorized by the director;
G. The changing of advertising copy or message on a painted or printed
sign and theater marquee and similar signs specifically designed for the use
of replaceable copy;
H. On-premises “For Rent,” “For Lease,” “Open House,” or “For Sale” signs
conforming to the provisions of this chapter;
I. On-premises Open or Closed signs,
two square feet or less in area;
J. Political signs, signs designed for the purpose of advertising support
of or opposition to a candidate or proposition at public election;
K. Traffic regulation signs on privately owned property, such as Enter,
Exit, Private Property, Parking Reserved,
provided they do not exceed two square feet in size and do not contain advertisement
for the establishment;
L. Vacancy, No Vacancy, or for gas stations,
Full Serve, Self Serve signs provided that
they do not exceed two square feet in size;
M. One address sign for each street frontage not to exceed two square
feet in size, or conforming to provisions of this chapter;
N. Historical marker signs, not to exceed four square feet in size;
O. Any temporary Open House sign. Only one sign is allowed
on each street frontage of the property. The sign may be a single or double-faced
and is limited to three square feet or less. The sign must not exceed four
feet in height. A maximum of three off-site signs are allowed. A sign may
be erected only while the building being shown is open to the public;
P. Any temporary sign warning of construction, excavation or similar hazards
so long as the hazard exists;
Q. Any temporary sign located on a kiosk;
R. One identification sign for a residence of no more than one square
foot. One identification sign for a ranch in an agricultural, forest and range,
or rural residential zoning district, as defined in this title, of no more than
ten square feet and located at the main entrance to the ranch house;
S. Holiday decorations;
T. Any sign that is part of the main structure of a coin-operated vending
machine, gasoline pump or telephone booth, provided the sign identifies only
the product contained or displays operating instructions. This exemption does
not include changeable-copy signs or signs that are added on to the main structure;
U. Any sign that is part of a coin-operated newsrack, provided the sign
is within the main structure of the newsrack;
V. Freestanding signs announcing the opening of a new business which in
the aggregate, do not exceed 32 square feet in size. The signs may not be erected
more than 30 days prior to the scheduled opening of the business and must be
removed no later than 30 days after the opening of the business. The business
owner or manager must provide proof of opening date upon request;
W. Signs specifically required by federal, state or county law;
X. Temporary window signs or indoor posters not exceeding 15 square feet
or ten percent of the window area of each facade, whichever is greater, and
which only provides information about a specific product, price, event or activity.
An individual temporary window sign shall not be displayed for more than 90
consecutive calendar days;
Y. A sign, such as a menu, which is on display to the public and, 1) shows
prices of goods or services, 2) does not exceed 24 inches by 18 inches, and
3) is located on a wall or in a window;
Z. Temporary Garage Sale or other similar signs located
only on the premises upon which the sale is occurring and during the time which
the sale is occurring;
AA. No Trespassing, Warning, Posted
Against Hunting or Fishing and similar signs, not to exceed 16 square
feet in size;
BB. Official flags, not exceeding 60 square feet in area, when flown on
a flagpole, subject to the following:
1. Each unit of operation is permitted a maximum of three flags,
or one flag per 50 feet of linear primary building frontage, whichever is greater.
2. Freestanding flagpoles shall not exceed 20 feet within the required
front, side and rear yard setback areas; freestanding flagpoles that meet the
required setbacks of the applicable zoning district shall not exceed the maximum
height permitted within the applicable zoning district.
3. A single flag of equal or smaller size with a business logo for
the unit of operation may be used when flown with an official flag, provided
that the total number of flags displayed does not exceed the total number permitted
for the unit of operation.
4. An official flag must not be attached to a sign or sign structure.
CC. Community identification signs, placed by Douglas County, an unincorporated
town or general improvement district formed pursuant to NRS Chapter 318 along
or within public rights-of-way at the jurisdictional boundary, subject to the
following:
1. Before the installation of any structure, the location, size,
height, width and general design must be approved by the director as being in
conformance with the general purpose of this chapter. Where applicable, an
encroachment permit shall be obtained;
2. No more than one single or double face sign shall be erected
at a jurisdictional boundary;
3. Total sign structure height not to exceed five-feet measured
from the closest edge of right-of-way;
4. Maximum sign area of 25 square feet for each sign face;
DD. Hanging signs, not exceeding two square feet in area, provided such
signs are located within covered walkways and are oriented to pedestrian users.
EE. Public hearing notice signs and other signs required by federal, state
or local governmental agencies.
FF. One non-official flag per unit of operation per street frontage, placed
on or hung from the main structure of the operation, not to exceed 12 square
feet in total area. (Ord. 919, 2000; Ord. 801, 1997; Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386,
1981)
20.696.110 Official signs and safety signs.
Nothing contained in this chapter prevents the erection,
construction and maintenance of official traffic,
safety, fire and police signs, signals, devices
and markings of the state highway department,
the board, or other competent public authorities,
nor the posting of notices required by law. Similarly,
on-premise traffic regulation signs and signs
necessary for the safety and convenience of those
members of the public using the premises, whether
the signs are officially or privately erected,
are not subject to the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.120 Directory signs.
A single-faced directory sign may be permitted
as a ground sign at the major entrance to residential,
commercial, or industrial complexes or as a wall
sign within a public mall area to identify occupants
or addresses for the convenience of visitors
and to facilitate emergency services. Directory
signs are only permitted as an element of a master
sign plan, must be located no less than 40-feet
inside the property line, and must not be visible
from the public right-of-way. Directory signs
may not be used as advertising for land uses
on the site and are not included in allowable
sign area limit computations or when calculating
the number of signs on a site. The name and
address of the primary complex may be included
as part of the directory sign not to exceed 20
percent of the total sign area. The maximum
size of a directory sign is limited to 32 square
feet and not more than four square feet for any
single unit of operation or any single occupant. No
more than eight units of operation may be displayed
on the directory sign. (Ord. 763, 1996)
20.696.130 On-premise signs in agricultural areas.
In agricultural, forest and range, and rural residential
zoning districts as defined in this title, the
following types of freestanding and wall signs
are permitted for either agricultural or non-agricultural
related commercial uses with the exception of
those signs listed under section 20.696.100:
A.One commercial sign is allowed for a business on
an agricultural parcel. The total area for all
signs identifying a business shall not exceed
ten square feet for parcels of less than ten
acres, 16 square feet for parcels of ten acres
up to 40 acres and 32 square feet for parcels
40 acres or larger. All signs shall be located
within the subject property and located at the
entrance to the business site. (Ord. 763, 1996;
Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.140 Trade construction signs.
A. In nonresidential zoning districts, one sign
advertising the various construction trades on
any construction site is permitted. The sign
must not exceed 32 square feet in area, must
not be installed prior to the start of construction,
and shall be removed prior to the issuance of
a certificate of occupancy.
B. In agricultural and residential zones, as defined
by this title, one sign is allowed advertising
the various construction trades on any construction
site. The sign must not exceed six square feet
in area, and must not be installed prior to the
start of construction and must be removed before
a certificate of occupancy is issued. (Ord. 763,
1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.150 Real property sales signs.
Real property sales signs are exempt from the permit
process if they comply with the following provisions:
A. Placement. Real property signs may be placed
upon the property with the following restrictions:
1. The signs must not be affixed to trees or shrubs
on the property;
2. The signs must not be placed closer than five
feet to any property line;
3. The signs must not be placed so that any portion
of it is more than seven feet above the average
ground level;
4. The sign may not be placed in a site that interferes
with the traffic safety site area.
B. Size and number. Real property sales signs must
not exceed the following sign area and number:
1. For residential parcels of less than one acre,
one real property sales sign not exceeding four
square feet;
2. For residential parcels greater than one acre,
but less than ten acres, one real property sign
not exceeding six square feet;
3. For commercial and industrial parcels, one sign
not exceeding 16 square feet on each street frontage;
4. For all parcels greater than ten acres, one real
property sign not to exceed 16 square feet in
size may be placed on each street frontage.
C. Construction, illumination, erection, and maintenance. Real
property signs must conform to the following
for type and style of construction:
1. The signs must be constructed of a permanent
material which will not deteriorate from weather;
2. The signs must not be illuminated;
3. A real property sign may be placed upon the property
either by the owner or by a person having the
authority of the owner to do so;
4. All the signs shall be maintained in a state
of good order and repair and be removed upon
close of escrow or removal from the market. (Ord.
763, 1996; Ord. 641, Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.160 Subdivisions sales signs.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, signs and
flags may be erected for each subdivision of
land, subject to the following:
A. A single or double faced non-illuminated sign
may be placed at each entry to the subdivision,
subject to the following:
1. Each sign face shall not exceed 32 square feet
in area, nor shall the sign and structure exceed
8 feet in total height;
2. Each sign shall be located outside the public
right-of-way and traffic safety site area;
3. A maximum of three sign structures are permitted
per subdivision, which shall be reduced by the
number of signs erected on tribal lands within
the county;
4. Each sign may contain the name of the subdivision
and or graphic representation, name of seller
or sellers, seller or sellers phone number, indicate
that model homes are on-site, and provide directions
to model homes. No other riders, flags, or other
additions may be included on the sign;
5.For the purposes of advertising subdivisions, a sign
is considered on-site if the sign is located
on contiguous property under the same ownership
as the subdivision, exclusive of easements;
6. All signs shall be removed upon the close of
escrow of the final lot or house being offered
for sale by the subdivider or developer.
B. A single faced non-illuminated sign may be placed
on the site of the subdivision sales office,
provided:
1. The sign face shall not exceed 16 square feet
nor shall the sign and structure exceed a height
of 6 feet;
2. The sign shall be a minimum of 5 feet from the
property line;
3. The sign may contain the name of the subdivision
and/or model complex, name of seller, phone number
of seller, and hours of operation. No other
riders, flags, or other additions may be included
on the sign;
4. All signs shall be removed upon the closure of
the model home sales complex or the close of
escrow of the final lot or house being offered
for sale by the subdivider or developer, whichever
is earlier.
C. Single faced directional kiosk signs may be placed
within the subdivision to direct potential buyers
to model home sales complexes, provided:
1. Each directional kiosk sign structure shall be
a maximum eight feet in height and maximum four
feet in width and indicate the name of the subdivision. Kiosk
directional signs are to be uniform in structure,
dimension and color throughout the subdivision;
2. Each builder shall be provided a total of eight
square feet of sign area which may include only
the name of the builder, model home complex name
and directional arrow;
3. A maximum of ten directional signs may be constructed
within the boundaries of the subdivision;
4. All directional kiosk signs shall be removed
upon the closure of the model home sale complexes
within the subdivision or the close of escrow
of the final lot or house being offered for sale
by the subdivider or developer, whichever is
earlier.
D. Flags may be used to advertise a subdivision,
subject to the following:
1. The flags may be located at the entry to the
subdivision or at the model home complex and
are to be located outside of the public right-of-way
and commonly owned property;
2.All flags shall be affixed to a metal pole, not to
exceed twenty-feet in height. No more than one,
3-foot by 5-foot maximum flag shall be affixed
to a flag pole. All flags shall be maintained
in good repair and be replaced or removed when
torn or tattered;
3. A total of one flag per subdivision, plus one
flag for every 20 lots may be erected;
4. All flags and poles shall be removed upon the
close of escrow of the final lot or house being
offered for sale by the subdivider or developer.
(Ord. 777, 1997; Ord 763, 1996; Ord. 641, 1994;
Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.170 Open house.
A real estate sign designating an open house is
allowed for an individual home for sale or lease,
other than first-time sales of homes within new
subdivisions; provided the signs:
A. Do not exceed an overall height of 36 inches
from the ground and the face of the sign must
not exceed a horizontal dimension of 24 inches
and a vertical dimension of 18 inches;
B. Have no riders, with the exception of the agent’s
name; No additions, tags, signs, streamers,
balloons or other appurtenances may be added
to the standard real estate open house sign.
Arrows may be incorporated into the design of
the face of the sign but may not be added appurtenant
to the sign;
C. Are displayed daily, provided the house is open
to the public during the time of display;
D. Must not exceed one on-site open house sign and
four off-site open house signs with an aggregate
total of five signs per open house. The standard
real estate for sale sign posted at the site
is not included as part of the aggregate total
of signs allowable per open house;
E. Must not be placed, used or maintained in any
location upon public property, including rights-of-way;
F. Must not be placed within a five foot radius
of a hydrant, fire call box or mail box;
G. Must not be placed on or within the median strip
or center divider of a roadway or on or within
any other roadway island or traffic safety site
area. (Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.180 Pre-lease signs.
Pre-lease signs shall require a sign permit and must comply
with the following provisions:
A. Placement. Pre-lease signs may be placed upon
the property with the following restrictions:
1. The signs must not be affixed to trees or shrubs
on the property;
2. The signs must not be placed closer than five
feet to any property line;
3. The signs must not be placed so that any portion
of it is more than seven feet above the average
ground level.
4. The sign may not be placed in a site that interferes
with the traffic safety site area.
B. Size and number. Pre-lease signs must not exceed
the following sign area and number:
1. One pre-lease sign per street frontage not to
exceed two signs total on any development site;
2. No sign shall exceed 16 square feet in size.
C. Construction, illumination, erection, and maintenance. Pre-lease
signs must conform to the following for type
and style of construction:
1. The signs must be constructed of a permanent
material which will not deteriorate from weather;
2. The signs must not be illuminated;
3. A pre-lease sign may be placed upon the property
either by the owner or by a person having the
authority of the owner to do so;
4. All the signs shall be maintained in a state
of good order and repair and be removed within
one year of the date of issue of permit. (Ord.
763, 1996)
20.696.200 Prohibited signs.
In addition to any sign not conforming to the provisions
of this chapter, the following signs are prohibited:
A. Any sign which, by color, shape, working, or
location, resembles or conflicts with any traffic
control sign or device;
B. Signs attached or placed adjacent to any utility
pole, traffic sign post, traffic signal, historical
marker or any other official traffic control
device;
C. Signs on trees or shrubs;
D. Signs erected on public or private property without
the permission of the owner;
E. Off premise signs, including billboards and directional signs, with
the exception of open house signs, placed in accordance with section 20.696.100.H,
and community identification and directional signs approved by the board as
part of an integrated community program, and public community facility signs,
points of interest, and community entry signs approved by the board as part
of an integrated community facility signage plan per section 20.696.385 and
20.696.390, below;
F. Signs on awnings or canopies except when placed on the valance;
G. Signs that create a hazard by obstructing clear
views of pedestrians and vehicular traffic;
H. Pole signs;
I. Temporary signs, except as provided in section
20.696.320;
J. Portable freestanding sandwich or “A” type signs; with the exception
of signs advertising “civic events” displayed during the time of the event,
or as provided in section 20.696.320;
K. Banners and pennants or pinwheels are prohibited,
except as provided for in sections 20.620.040
and 20.620.050;
L. Balloons and other inflatable devices except
as provided for in sections 20.620.045 and
20.620.050
M. Bench signs;
N. Mobile signs or portable signs unless carried
by a natural person or by a motor vehicle as
provided in section 20.696.220 or for advertising
a “civic event;”
O. Signs located within any stream, drainage facility
or channel;
P. Signs that rotate, move, flash, blink or appear
to do so are prohibited unless required by law
or utilized by a proper governmental agency.
Q. The provisions of this chapter do not prohibit
the following types of signs:
1. A sign changing to show time or temperature;
2. An on-premises barber pole of a height not to
exceed 48 inches of traditional design, which
is permitted to revolve during the time that
a barbershop is open for business;
3. Signs otherwise permitted by this chapter. (Ord. 1009, 2002;
Ord. 956, 2001; Ord. 801, 1997; Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 641, 1994; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.210 Abandoned signs.
Within 30 days after the discontinuance of a business
in any zoning district, or before a new business
occupies the premises, whichever occurs first,
all abandoned signs must be removed by the owner
of the property on which the sign is located. Permanent
signs or sign structures applicable to a business
temporarily suspended by reason of change of
ownership or management of the business are not
considered abandoned unless the property remains
vacant for a period of three months. A sign
structure that conforms with the provisions of
this title in terms of size and type is not required
to be removed. (Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.220 Advertising on vehicles.
No person shall park any vehicle on the street or in a location on private
property which is visible from a street which has attached to or suspended from
the vehicle any advertising sign except a sign painted directly upon or permanently
affixed to the body, including a magnetic decoration, or other integral part
of the vehicle for permanent decoration, identification or display indicating
the name of the business, address, phone number, applicable trade license number
and business logo. The provisions of this section are not applicable to signs
affixed to vehicles of public carriers operating within the county. (Ord. 1137,
2005; Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.230 Traffic hazards.
A sign may not be erected or located to cause a
hazard to the movement of vehicles or pedestrians
upon public rights-of-way or obstruct or interfere
with the traffic safety site area, signal or
other safety device located upon a public right-of-way. The
minimum height clearance for any sign is not
less than eight feet above the ground where pedestrian
traffic may travel beneath the sign nor less
than 13 feet-six inches above any driveway, alleyway
or other way designed for vehicular traffic.
(Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.240 Utility lines.
No permit for any sign shall be issued and no sign
shall be constructed or maintained which has
less horizontal or vertical clearance from communication
or energized electrical power lines than that
prescribed by the laws of the state or rules
and regulations of the appropriate agencies.
(Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.250 Removal of political signs.
A. Every political sign, which has been erected,
must be removed by the person, organization,
candidate or sponsor responsible for the erection
of the sign within seven calendar days after
any election; provided, that any candidate successful
in any primary election who is opposed in the
general election is not required to remove his
or her political signs until seven calendar days
after the date of the general election.
B. Any person, organization, candidate or sponsor
whose name appears on any political sign shall
be presumed to be responsible for the removal
of the sign under this chapter. (Ord. 763, 1996;
Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.260 Owners consent required.
It is unlawful for any person, except public officers
or employees in the performance of a public duty,
or a private person in giving legal notice, to
paste, post, paint, print, nail, tack or otherwise
fasten any card, banner, handbill, sign, poster,
advertisement or notice of any kind upon any
property without the consent of the owner, holder,
lessee, or agent of trustee of the property.
(Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.295 Number of free standing signs.
A. Except as provided in section 20.696.305, a person may not erect or
maintain more than one freestanding accessory, on-premises sign on each parcel
of property or legal access easement in a land use district in which a freestanding
sign is permitted, provided that no signs are located within the traffic safety
sight area of any intersection or within 75 feet from another freestanding sign
located within the site or an abutting property and with the following exceptions:
B. Parcels with a frontage of 50 feet or more are allowed one freestanding
double-faced sign per frontage. Where a parcel of property abuts two or more
public streets, a freestanding sign is permitted on each frontage of the property.
C.
Parcels with a legal access easement to a public road of 30 feet or more in
width are allowed one freestanding double-faced sign in the easement frontage.
D. Parcels of record within a commercial or industrial subdivision
without a frontage on a public street are allowed a single monument sign placed
along the frontage of the parcel abutting an internal drive aisle, provided
the total structure height does not exceed 5 feet and the sign area does not
exceed the maximum provided under table 20.696.1.
E.
A parcel within an approved commercial complex, which is designated to contain
a commercial complex sign, is allowed a single monument sign placed along the
frontage of the parcel, provided the total structure height does not exceed
5 feet and the sign area does not exceed the maximum provided under table 20.696.1.
(Ord. 1041, 2003; Ord. 1009, 2002; Ord. 879, 1998; Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386,
1981)
20.696.300
Freestanding sign area tables, maximum area.
Except as otherwise provided in sections 20.696.305 and 20.696.315, in
commercial, industrial, and other zone districts allowing a freestanding sign,
the maximum total sign area permitted each parcel for use in freestanding signs
is the total sign area obtained by adding the amounts from tables 20.696.1 and
20.696.2 below.
A. The content of the sign is limited to the address, center name or major anchor and may contain a list of tenants.
B. The complex, center, or major anchor name and address are not included in
allowable sign area provided their combined sign area does not exceed 20 square
feet in area. (Ord. 1009, 2002; Ord. 870, 1998; Ord. 777, 1997; Ord. 763, 1996;
Ord. 386, 1981)
Table 20.696.1
|
Parcel area (square feet) |
Sign area (square feet) |
Parcel area (square feet) |
Sign area (square feet) |
|
5,000 or less |
20 |
40,000 |
31 |
|
6,000 |
23 |
50,000 |
32 |
|
7,000 |
24 |
70,000 |
33 |
|
8,000 |
25 |
90,000 |
34 |
|
9,000 |
26 |
110,000 |
35 |
|
10,000 |
27 |
140,000 |
36 |
|
15,000 |
28 |
170,000 |
37 |
|
20,000 |
29 |
200,000 or more |
38 |
|
30,000 |
30 |
Table 20.696.2
|
Parcel frontage (square feet) |
Sign area (square feet) |
Parcel frontage (square feet) |
Sign area (square feet) |
|
50 |
10 |
160 |
18 |
|
60 |
11 |
180 |
19 |
|
70 |
12 |
200 |
20 |
|
80 |
13 |
240 |
21 |
|
90 |
14 |
280 |
22 |
|
100 |
15 |
320 |
23 |
|
120 |
16 |
400 |
24 |
|
140 |
17 |
500 or more |
25 |
To calculate the maximum permissible
sign area for a parcel, add the sign areas obtained from Tables 20.696.1 and
20.696.2. If the length of the frontages falls between numerical categories,
the smallest figures is to be used. (Ord. 1009, 2002; Ord. 777, 1997; Ord.
763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1987, Ord. 167, 1968)
20.696.302
Height and setback of free standing signs.
Except as otherwise provided in sections 20.696.305, the maximum height
of any freestanding sign is 20 feet. Freestanding signs must be monument type.
A minimum five-foot setback from the property line is required for all signs
constructed after the date of adoption of this chapter. Freestanding signs
are not allowed in the traffic safety site area. (Ord. 1009, 2002; Ord. 870,
1998; Ord. 801, 1997; Ord 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.305
Highway-oriented freestanding sign area tables, maximum area.
A. One additional double faced freestanding sign may be allowed for a
parcel within a commercial or industrial complex or subdivision in addition
to those freestanding signs permitted under 20,696.295, provided that no other
highway-oriented sign is located within 300 feet, and the parcel can meet all
of the following:
1. The parcel has frontage on U.S. Highways 50 or395;
2. The parcel is part of a commercial or industrial complex and
the sign serves the complex;
3. The property is zoned commercial;
4. The property or complex is a minimum of 5 acres in area, or part
of an approved commercial or industrial subdivision having a total area of 5
acres or greater;
5. The posted speed limit on the major highway fronting the parcel
is 45 mph or higher.
B. Except as modified by subsection C, the maximum height is 25 feet and
the the maximum total sign area permitted each parcel for use in highway-oriented
freestanding signs is the amount obtained from table 20.696.3.
1. The complex, center name, or major anchor and the address are
not included in the allowable sign area computation, provided their combined
sign area does not exceed 20 square feet in area. The sign must include
a listing of at least three tenants;
2. The sign is monument style and consistent with the architecture,
color, and materials of the center; and
3. Placement of the sign is consistent with the provisions in sections
20.696.295 and 20.696.302.
C. The maximum sign height and sign area may be increased by the amount
obtained from table 20.696.4, below, provided the corresponding posted speed
limit exists.
Table 20.696.3
|
Parcel frontage (feet) |
Sign area (square feet)* |
|
200 |
55 |
|
250 |
60 |
|
300 |
65 |
|
350 |
70 |
|
400 |
75 |
|
450 |
80 |
|
500 to 999 |
85 |
|
1000 or more |
95 |
* If the length
of the parcel frontage falls between numerical categories, the smallest figure
is to be used.
Table 20.696.4
|
Posted Speed Limit (mph) |
Additional Sign height (feet) |
Additional Sign Area (square feet) |
|
45 |
0 |
0 |
|
50 |
2.5 |
10 |
|
55 |
5 |
20 |
|
60 |
7.5 |
30 |
|
65 or higher |
10 |
40 |
(Ord. 1041, 2003; Ord. 1009, 2002;
Ord. 870, 1999)
20.696.310
Wall, window and projecting signs.
A. Except as otherwise provided in section 20.696.315, the maximum sign
area permitted a business or a unit of operation for its primary wall, window
or projecting signs is the total area obtained by multiplying the width of the
building or suite frontage with primary public access or the frontage facing
the primary street by 1.25 (the ratio of 1.25 square feet of sign for each linear
foot of building frontage).
B. If a business is located on two street frontages, the secondary building frontage is permitted a single wall, window or projecting sign. The total sign area allowed is obtained by multiplying the width of the building or suite frontage facing the secondary street frontage by 0.75 (the ratio of 0.75 square feet of sign for each linear foot of building frontage).
C. If a business with building or suite frontage faces a driveway or drive-aisle, the building frontage facing the driveway or drive-aisle is permitted a single wall, window or projecting sign. The total sign area allowed is obtained by multiplying the width of the building or suite frontage facing the driveway or drive-aisle by 0.50 (the ratio of 0.50 square feet of sign for each linear foot of building frontage).
D. A business, within an approved commercial complex and based on an approved master sign plan for the complex, may designate any building or suite frontage, as the primary, secondary, or on internal driveway frontage for purposes of determining where the allowed signs are placed.
E. A business subtenant contained in another business, and whose public access is only provided through that other business, is allowed one wall sign, calculated as if the subtenant had frontage, with the maximum sign area obtained by multiplying the width of the tenant space by 0.75 (the ratio of 0.75 square feet of sign for each linear foot in width). The sign must be approved in the master sign plan.
F. A business or a single unit of operation is limited to three signs for wall, window or projecting signs.
G.
A business or a single unit of operation within an approved commercial or industrial
subdivision or complex is limited to four signs for wall, window, or projecting
signs. (Ord. 1041, 2003; Ord. 1009, 2002; Ord. 801, 1997; Ord. 763, 1996;
Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.312
Commercial or industrial center sign.
A. A maximum of one wall mounted sign only is
permitted on the primary street frontage within a commercial or industrial zoning
district. The maximum sign area permitted is the total obtained by multiplying
the width of the building frontage facing the designated primary street frontage
by 0.25 (the ratio of 0.25 of signage for each linear foot of building frontage
facing the designated primary street frontage). In no event shall the wall sign
exceed 40 square feet and must meet the following criteria:
1. The center must contain
4 or more tenants.
2. The designated primary
building frontage must be 100 feet or greater.
3. All lettering must
be consistent in style, design and coloring with any existing sign lettering,
and must be approved as part of a Master Sign Plan.
4. Content of the center
sign shall be limited to the center identification name and the center address.
5. The style, architecture,
and placement of the center sign shall be compatible with the existing structure.
(Ord. 1040; 2003)
20.696.315
On-premise signs.
A. In commercial, industrial and other zones, as defined by the zoning
title, the following restrictions apply:
1. In the RO (residential office) overlay district, signs are limited
to a monument or wall sign of not more than six square feet to identify the
building or business.
2. In the TC (tourist commercial) district, exterior signs (wall
mounted and freestanding) are limited to not more than 500 square feet of surface
area.
3. In the AP (airport) district, signs are limited to that contained
within subsection 20.668.010.D.
4. In the PF (public facility) district, signs are limited to one
freestanding sign (single or double-faced) with a maximum 50 square feet of
sign area or one wall sign not to exceed 25 square feet.
B. In addition to the above requirements, on-premise signs for buildings
two stories or greater in height are allowed subject to the following:
1. Two wall signs above the first floor not to exceed 20 square
feet each.
2. Sign must be placed above the windows of the highest floor and
below the eaveline.
3. Sign copy is limited to one company name per building arranged
in a single line.
4. Company logos may be used in combination with letters.
5. Signs shall be designed to be compatible with the architecture
of the building. (Ord. 801, 1997; Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981; Ord. 167,
1968)
20.696.320
Temporary sign permits.
Temporary signs may be allowed if permitted pursuant to chapter 20.620,
temporary use permit. (Ord. 763, 1996)
20.696.325
Area identification signs, residential institutional uses.
A maximum of two single faces signs or one double faced sign may be permitted
on-site at each entry point to a site containing an apartment house, rooming-house,
trailer park, or residential development of more than five lots or for an institutional
use in an agricultural or residential zone district. Size is computed on the
basis of one-half (0.5) square foot for each living unit, lot or trailer space
with a maximum of 25 square feet for each sign, or a maximum of 25 square feet
for institutional uses. Illumination must be by indirect lighting only. The
materials used for sign construction an sign support shall be relatively maintenance
free. Signs may be freestanding or wall mounted. (Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386,
1981)
20.696.330
Area identification signs, non-residential uses.
A maximum of two single faced signs or one double faced sign may be permitted
on-site at each entry point to a site containing a non-residential development
of 10 acres or greater. Maximum sign area per sign face is 24 square feet.
Illumination must be by indirect lighting only. The materials used for sign
construction and sign support shall be relatively maintenance free. (Ord. 870,
1998; Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.345
Roof-mounted sign.
Roof mounted sings are permitted by special use permit approval when the
sign is part of an historic structure and which retains the historic character
of the structure. Roof-mounted signs do not include signs which are mounted
flush with the mansard. (Ord. 763, 1996)
20.696.350
Changeable copy (reader board) signs.
Changeable copy signs are limited to gaming, service stations (gasoline
price signs only), theater marquees, and institutional uses. (Ord. 763, 1996)
20.696.355
Effect of exempt signs.
Signs exempted from a permit are not included in determining size or number
of sings permitted upon a parcel of property. (Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.360
Construction and maintenance.
All signs erected within the county must:
A. Be maintained in good repair and must be neat in appearance. Any sign
which is determined by the director, his designated representative, or the code
enforcement officer to be unsafe or unsightly because of bent, broken or missing
parts or poor maintenance generally may be declared a public nuisance;
B. Have all parts, portions, units and material comprising the same,
together with the frame, background, supports or anchorage therefor, manufactured,
fabricated, assembled, constructed and erected as specified for structures in
the applicable building, electrical and fire prevention codes;
C. Have the area surrounding the sign maintained by the owner in a clean,
sanitary and inoffensive condition, and free and clear of all obnoxious substances,
rubbish and weeds. (Ord. 763, 19967; Ord. 641, 1994; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.365
Projection limits.
No projecting building sign, roof sign, or roof-mounted sign may project
into a public right of way or easement without approval of an encroachment permit.
However, in no event shall a sign be located closer that two feet from the carbine.
(Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.370
Variance to sign area.
A. A variance to the sign regulations relating to the size of the wall
mounted signs is permitted, subject to the following requirements:
1. The variance is necessary due to exceptional circumstances related
to the type or location of the business, or in order to achieve a special design
effect;
2. The size entitlement of the sign shall not be increased by more
than 25 percent;
3. The sign will be integrated into the architecture of the building;
4. The sign will not be detrimental to surrounding uses or properties
or the community in general;
5. The approval of such modification is consistent with the purposes
of the master plan and this ordinance and the sign standards set forth in this
title. (Ord. 763, 1996)
20.696.375
Master sign plan required.
A master sign plan is required for a commercial or industrial complex
containing three or more units of operation. (Ord. 763, 1996)
20.696.380
Non-conforming signs.
A. Except as otherwise provided in this title, no later than seven years
from the effective date of this title, non-conforming signs shall be brought
into compliance with the requirements of this chapter.
B. If the posted speed limit on a major highway fronting the parcel as
required by section 20.696.305 is reduced and the sign was approved and constructed
according to this title, the sign shall be considered non-conforming. (Ord.
870, 1999; Ord. 763, 1996; Ord. 641, 1994; Ord. 386, 1981)
20.696.385
Off premise public community facility signs.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, off-premises signs
for public community facilities may be allowed subject to the following:
A. The signs are limited to the identification of a public community facility
owned or leased by Douglas County and the site must be identified in an integrated
community facility signing plan, approved by the board:
1. The sign shall be monument type and placed along or within a
public right-of-way;
2. Before the installation of any sign structure, the location,
size, height, width and general design must be approved by the county as being
in conformance with the general purpose of this chapter. Where applicable,
an encroachment permit shall be obtained;
3. No more than one single or double face monument sign shall be
erected at an identification location;
4. The total sign structure height must not exceed eight feet measured
from the adjacent natural grade;
5. The maximum sign area is 50 square feet for each sign face;
6. The copy of the sign is limited to the name and logo of the public
facility;
7. The sign cannot be internally illuminated.
20.696.390
Points of interest and community entry signs.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this
chapter, on and off-premise points of interest and community entry signs are
subject to the following:
A. Signs identifying special points of interest
and community entry points that are not owned or leased by Douglas County may
also be approved as identified in the integrated community facility sign plan,
as proposed or amended by the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce and approved
by the board. The Chamber of Commerce will be responsible for the placement
and maintenance of all signs authorized by this section. The approval of the
board is subject to the following:
1. Before the installation
of any sign structure, the location, size, height, width and general design
must be approved by the county as being in conformance with the general purpose
of this chapter. Where applicable, an encroachment permit must be obtained.
2. No more than one single
or double-faced sign may be erected at an identification location.
3. The maximum area for
each community entry monument sign is 100 square feet for each sign face and
the total sign structure height must not exceed 20 feet measured from the adjacent
natural grade.
4. The maximum area for
each point of interest sign, which may be pole mounted, is 12 square feet.
5. The signs must have
proper access and maintenance easements. (Ord. 1009, 2002)
