HomeMy WebLinkAboutNo 896 Amending the Maplewood Sign Regulations
ORDINANCE NO. 896
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MAPLEWOOD SIGN REGULATIONS
The Maplewood city council approves the following changes to the Maplewood Code of
Ordinances:
This amendment revises Article III (Sign Regulations), except for regulations pertaining to
temporary window and banner signs, which will be regulated according to the city’s previous
sign ordinance and has been updated in this ordinance.
Section 1. Purpose and Intent
The purpose of this ordinance is to establish a comprehensive and impartial system of sign
regulations that balances the needs for effective visual communication including business
identification and the needs for a safe, well-maintained, and attractive community. It is intended
through the provisions contained herein to:
(a) Promote signs which by their design and dimensions are integrated and harmonized with
the surrounding environment and the buildings and sites they occupy.
(b) Protect the public from damage or injury caused by signs that are poorly designed or
maintained and from signs that cause distractions or hazards to motorists and pedestrians using
the public streets, sidewalks, and public right-of-way.
(c) Avoid excessive signage in order to give each business or use optimum visibility to passer-
by traffic and prevent cluttering of the streetscape.
(d) Allow noncommercial copy to be substituted for commercial copy on any lawful sign
structure.
Section 2. Comprehensive Sign and Mural Plans
A comprehensive sign plan shall be provided for the following:
(a) Business premises with five (5) or more tenants on the premise and all multiple-story
buildings with two (2) or more tenants in the building.
(b) Dynamic display wall signs (also refer to Section 13 – Dynamic Display Signs).
(c) Large campuses consisting of buildings and land of ten (10) or more acres.
(d) Shared signs.
(e) All developments approved as a planned unit development.
(f) Murals on business premises.
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(g) Temporary sports facility sponsorship signs (also refer to Section 12 – Signs in Park
Designated Land Use in the Maplewood Comprehensive Plan).
Such a plan, which shall include the location, size, height, color, lighting and orientation of all
signs and/or murals, shall be submitted for preliminary plan approval by the city. Exceptions to
the sign ordinance of this article may be permitted for sign areas, densities, and dynamic display
changeover rates for the plan as a whole if the signs are in conformity with the intent of this
article, results in an improved relationship between the various parts of the plan, and
encourages and promotes the removal of nonconforming signs through the use of shared signs.
In addition, murals must be tasteful, in keeping with the business premise and surrounding
properties, and not contain any defamatory, obscene, treasonous expressions or opinions,
including graffiti.
Comprehensive sign plans shall be reviewed by the community design review board. The
applicant, staff, and city council may appeal the community design review board’s decision. An
appeal shall be presented to the administrator within fifteen (15) days of the community design
review board’s decision to be considered by the city council.
Section 3. Definitions
Administrator. The director of community development or other person charged with the
administration and enforcement of this ordinance.
Advertising Balloon. Any inflatable temporary sign.
Alteration. Any major alteration to a sign, but shall not include routine maintenance, painting or
change of the sign face of an existing sign.
Awning. A covering attached on the facade of a building which projects typically over a door,
window, or sidewalk.
Awning Sign. A sign affixed flat to the surface of an awning which does not extend vertically or
horizontally beyond the limits of such awning.
Banner Sign. A temporary sign that is made of flexible material, contains a message, and is not
inflatable.
Billboard. A sign which advertises a product, event, person, institution, activity, business,
service or subject not located on the premises on which said sign is located. This definition
shall not include an off-site real estate sign.
Changeable Copy Message Board. A sign or portion of a sign which is characterized by
interchangeable letters and figures. This definition shall not include dynamic display signs.
Collector Streets. As defined in the city’s comprehensive plan these are roadways designed to
carry traffic between the arterial system and the local system, convey intra-community traffic
between neighborhoods, business centers, industries, parks and the like, and provide direct
access to abutting properties.
Construction Sign. A temporary sign erected on the premises prior to or during construction,
indicating the names of the architects, engineers, landscape architects, contractors or similar
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artisans, and/or the owners, financial supporters, sponsors, and similar individuals or firms
having a role or interest with respect to the structure or project.
Directional Information Sign. A sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary to
the use of the property upon which it is located, intended to facilitate the movement of
pedestrians and vehicles within the site and identify the location and nature of a building not
readily visible from the street.
District. The land use or zoning districts as designated on an official land use or zoning map of
the city and described in the district regulations.
Dwelling Unit. Any structure or portion of a structure that is designated as short-term or long-
term living quarters, including motel units, hotel units, or cabins.
Dynamic Display Sign. Any sign designed for outdoor use that is capable of displaying a video
signal, including, but not limited to, cathode-ray tubes (CRT), light-emitting diode (LED)
displays, plasma displays, liquid-crystal displays (LCD), or other technologies used in
commercially available televisions or computer monitors. Signs with this technology which are
placed by a public agency for the purpose of directing or regulating pedestrian or vehicle
movement are exempt from this ordinance.
Flags. Any device generally made of flexible materials, such as cloth, and displayed on strings
containing distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols used as a symbol of government, political
subdivision, or other entity.
Flashing Sign. An illuminated sign which contains flashing lights or exhibits with noticeable
changes in light intensity.
Freestanding Sign. A sign that is attached to, erected on, or supported by an architecturally-
planned structure (such as a pole, mast, frame, or other structure) that is not itself an integral
part of or attached to a building or other structure whose principal function is something other
than the support of a sign. This definition includes pylon signs and monument signs.
Garage Sale Sign. A sign that advertises the sale of personal property from a person's home.
This definition includes, but is not limited to, yard-sale, craft, boutique and estate-sale signs.
Gas Station Canopy Sign. A sign affixed to the canopy of a gas station pump island which may
or may not be attached to the principal building.
Graffiti. Unauthorized markings of paint, dye, or other similar substance that have been placed
on real or personal property such as buildings, fences, transportation equipment, or other
structures, or the unauthorized etching or scratching of the surfaces of such real or personal
property, any of which markings, scratching, or etchings are visible from premises open to the
public.
Ground Grade. The elevation of the ground closest to the sign to which reference is made.
Illuminated Sign. A sign that is illuminated internally by a light source inside the sign or
externally by means of external light fixtures directed at the sign.
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Local Streets. As defined in the city’s comprehensive plan these are roadways that serve short
trips at low speeds.
Menu Board. An outdoor sign which lists available menu offerings for drive-through customers
at a retail establishment which includes a permitted drive-through component, for the purpose of
enabling customers to order from the menu and where the advertising or promotional
component of the sign is secondary.
Minor Alteration. A change of sign copy, sign face, sign color, or modifications or repairs to an
existing sign that are cosmetic in nature or include a replacement of parts. Expansion of an
existing sign does not constitute a minor alteration.
Minor Arterial. As defined in the city’s comprehensive plan these are roadways that connect
sub-regions that are the closest routes parallel to the principal arterials and supplement and
provide relief for traffic to the principal arterial.
Monument Sign. A sign not supported by exposed posts or poles located directly at the grade
where the width dimension of the architecturally designed base is fifty (50) percent or more of
the greatest width of the sign face.
Multiple Tenant Building. A commercial building containing two (2) or more tenants.
Mural. A design, image, or expression on the exterior of a building, generally for the purpose of
decoration or artistic expression, including, but not limited to paintings, markings, and etchings
and does not include any on or off-site advertisement.
Noncommercial Opinion Signs. A sign that expresses an opinion or point of view that does not
advertise any product, service, or business, or display a commercial message, excluding
political campaign signs.
Nonconforming Sign. A sign lawfully erected and maintained prior to the adoption of this
ordinance that does not conform to the requirements of this ordinance.
On-Site Real Estate Sign. A sign advertising the sale, lease, or rental of real estate upon which
the sign is located.
Off-Site Directional and Open House Real Estate Sign. A sign located within the public right-of-
way that advertises the sale, lease, or rental of real estate or the open house for such real
estate located off the premises where the sign is located.
Off-Site Real Estate Sign. A sign advertising the sale, lease, or rental of real estate for single or
multiple-family housing developments located off the premises where the sign is located.
Painted Wall Sign. A sign painted or administered through adhesive tape directly on the exterior
wall of a building or structure,excluding murals.
Principal Arterial. As defined in the city’s comprehensive plan these are roadways designed to
carry the highest volume of traffic, allow the highest speeds, are for the longest trips, and
provide sub-regional, regional, and inter-community access.
Principal Use. The main purpose for which land, buildings, or structures are ordinarily used.
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Professional Occupation Sign. A sign which contains no advertising but is limited to the name,
address, telephone number, and occupation of the person carrying on a permitted home
occupation out of residential use.
Property Frontage. The property lines or lease lines at the front of a building in which the
business is located or the location of the main public entrance of the building.
Political Campaign Sign. A temporary sign promoting the candidacy of a person running for a
governmental office or promoting a position or an issue to be voted on at a governmental
election.
Portable Sign. A sign constructed to be movable from one location to another and not
permanently attached to the ground or to any immobile structure or any device whose primary
function during a specific time is to serve as a sign.
Public Service Sign. Any sign primarily intended to promote items of general interest to the
community.
Project Sign. A temporary sign which identifies a proposed or new development.
Projecting Sign. A sign, other than a wall sign, which is supported and projects from more than
eighteen (18) inches at a right angle from the wall of a building.
Pylon Sign. A sign that is mounted on a narrow freestanding pole or other support structure so
that the bottom edge of the sign face is six (6) feet above the architecturally designed base.
Residential Use Building. Any dwelling, boarding, lodging or rooming house, dormitory unit,
fraternity, or sorority house.
Roof Line. The uppermost line of the roof of a building or, in the case of an extended facade,
the uppermost height of said facade.
Roof Sign. A sign erected upon the roof of a building or extending above the roof line of the
building to which it is attached, and which is wholly or partially supported by said building.
Sign. Any structure, device, advertisement, advertising device, or visual representation
intended to advertise, identify, or communicate information and to attract the attention of the
public for any purpose. A sign includes any illuminated or non-illuminated symbol, letter, logo,
figure, illustration or form painted or otherwise affixed to a building or structure, excluding
murals. A sign also includes any beacon or searchlight intended to attract the attention of the
public for any purpose. For the purpose of removal, signs shall also include all sign structures.
Architectural lighting, such as neon that has no sign copy, shall not be considered to be a sign.
Sign Area. The entire area within a continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme limits of the
sign message and background. In the case of a sign designed with more than one exterior
surface, the area shall be computed as including only the maximum single display surface which
is visible from any ground position at one time. The supports, uprights, or structures in which
any sign is supported shall not be included in determining the sign area.
Sign Face. The surface of the sign including letters and background upon, against, or through
which the message is displayed or illustrated.
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Sign Structure. The supports, braces, and framework of a sign.
Street Frontage. The linear frontage of a parcel of property abutting a street.
Special Event Sign. A temporary sign or display erected by a civic organization, religious
organization, or other non-profit organization or group for the purpose of identifying a non-
commercial, one-time, or annual special event.
Temporary Displays. Temporary displays or features that do not clearly fall into the definition of
a sign, but which direct attention to a product, place, activity, business, person, institution, or
organization. Temporary displays include three-dimensional shapes, inflatable objects, search
lights, and other similar devices.
Temporary or Seasonal Sign. A sign for a specific advertisement purpose that is of a limited
duration and is not permanently attached to the ground or wall.
Wall Sign. A flat sign which does not project more than eighteen (18) inches from the face or
wall of the building upon which it is attached, running parallel for its whole length to the face or
wall of the building, and which does not extend beyond the horizontal width of such building.
Window Sign. A sign painted on a window or placed inside the building to be viewed through
the glass by public. This does not include merchandise on display.
Wall Surface of Building. The total horizontal surface area of the building face to which the sign
is attached, including windows and door areas, measured to the extreme outer limits of such
wall surface.
Section 4. Sign Area and Height Computation
(a) Where the sign is a separate panel, structure, or other material forming a single display, the
area of the message display face shall constitute the area of the sign. The supports, uprights,
bases, or structures on which any sign is supported shall not count towards the sign area unless
the supports, uprights, bases, or structures are an integral part of the sign display.
(b) Where the sign is designed with more than one (1) exterior sign face, the sign area shall be
computed as including only the maximum single display surface which is visible from any
ground position at one time.
(c) Where the sign consists of any combination of individual letters, panels, numbers, figures,
illustrations, or of a line or lines, to form a display or sign, the area of the sign shall be computed
using the outside dimensions of the various words, figures, and illustrations composing the
entire sign.
(d) The sign coverage area includes the area of the message display face and the frame,
background, and supports for a sign.
(e) The height of a sign shall be measured by the vertical distance from the ground grade to the
top of a sign.
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Section 5. Nonconforming Signs
(a) Nonconforming Permanent Signs. Nonconforming permanent signs lawfully existing on the
effective date of this ordinance shall be allowed to continue in use, but shall not be rebuilt,
relocated or altered, other than minor alterations including routine maintenance, painting, or
refacing the copy of sign, without being brought into compliance with this ordinance. After a
nonconforming sign has been removed, it shall not be replaced by another nonconforming sign.
(b) Nonconforming Temporary Signs. Nonconforming temporary signs existing on the effective
date of this ordinance shall be brought into compliance or removed within sixty (60) days from
the effective date of the ordinance.
Section 6. Enforcement Procedures
(a) Permanent Signs. The city shall send a notice to the owner of any permanent sign in
violation of the provisions of this ordinance. The notice shall require that the owner correct all
ordinance violations. If the sign is not a safety hazard, the city shall allow thirty (30) days for the
owner to correct the violation. If the sign is a safety hazard the city shall take immediate action
to end the hazard.
(b) Temporary Signs. The city shall send a notice to the owner of all other illegal temporary
signs and allow seven (7) days for the owner to correct all ordinance violations or remove the
sign.
(c) Removal of Signs. If the sign owner does not obey the city’s orders, the city may remove or
alter the sign at the owner’s expense under the procedures of Sections 18-36 through 18-38
(Notice to Abate). The city may remove illegal signs on a public right-of-way without notice. If
the city removes a sign the city may sell or dispose of it if the owner does not reclaim the sign
and pay any removal costs within thirty (30) days of the sign’s removal.
Section 7. Prohibited Signs
(a) Signs or sign structures attached or supported on balconies, fences, or other non-
permanent structures.
(b) Signs attached or supported on a permanently parked vehicle or semi-trailers intended to
advertise a business, product, or service. Not including signs painted directly on a parked
vehicle or semi-trailer used in the business or facility or on site for business purposes.
(c) Signs on rocks, trees, or other natural features or public utility poles.
(d) Permanent or temporary signs that have blinking, flashing, fluttering lights, or make noise.
(e) Signs or sign structures that obstruct any part of a fire escape, doorway, standpipe, or
opening intended to provide ingress or egress for any building structures.
(f) Signs that by reason of location, color, or intensity create a hazard to the safe, efficient
movement of vehicles or pedestrian traffic. No private sign shall contain words which might be
construed as traffic controls such as "stop," "caution," "warning," etc., unless such sign is
intended to direct traffic on the premises.
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(g) Painted wall signs.
(h) Roof signs.
(i) Signs that advertise a product or service not sold on the property, except for billboards or
other off-site signs where specifically permitted in this ordinance.
(j) Signs having features or incorporating parts of any sign prohibited in this ordinance.
Section 8. Signs Exempt from Regulations in this Ordinance
(a) Any public notice or warning sign required to be maintained or posted by law or
governmental order, rule, or regulation.
(b) Flags and emblems of a political, civic, religious, or other non-commercial nature. Flags
that do not meet these requirements will be considered banners and be regulated as such.
(c) Any sign inside a building, not attached to an exterior window, not legible from a distance of
more than ten (10) feet.
(d) Traffic control signs, as defined by state law.
(e) Memorial plaques, cornerstones, historical tablets, and the like.
(f) Seasonal displays of holiday lights and decorations that do not contain a commercial
message.
Section 9. Sign Permits
If a sign requires a permit the property owner shall secure the sign permit prior to the
construction or major alteration of such a sign. No sign permit of any kind shall be issued for an
existing or proposed sign unless such sign is in compliance with the requirements of this
ordinance.
(a) Application
The application for permission to erect or alter any such sign shall be in writing, using a current
Sign Permit Application, and signed by the owner or occupant of the building. The application
shall specify the location, height, dimensions of the sign and, where applicable, the dimensions
of the wall surface of the building to which it is to be attached and total square footage of the
building. Applications shall be accompanied by a sketch of the sign and any other facts the city
requires for full information of the nature and safety of the proposal. An electrical permit is also
required for all signs containing electrical wiring.
(b) Appeals
When a permit under this ordinance is denied, the administrator shall give notice to the
applicant within thirty (30) days of denial, together with reasons for denial. Appeals from the
decisions of the administrator under the provisions of this ordinance shall be made to the city
council. Denial shall be based on noncompliance with this ordinance.
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(c) Fees
The city council shall set all sign permit fees annually.
(d) Time Limits
(1) A sign permit shall become null and void if the work for which the permit was issued has
not been completed within one (1) year of the issuance or renewal.
(2) All permits for the erection or alteration of signs shall be issued for the useful life of the
sign. Minor alterations to an existing sign including routine maintenance, painting, or
refacing the copy do not require a new sign permit.
Section 10. General Regulations and Standards
All signs shall be constructed in a manner and of such materials that they shall be safe and
substantial and in compliance with the building ordinance.In addition, all signs containing
electrical wiring shall be subject to the provisions of the current state electrical ordinance.
(a) Maintenance
All signs in the city, together with all of their supports, braces, and anchors, shall be kept in
repair and in proper state of preservation. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly
painted or posted at all times. Every sign and the immediate surrounding premises shall be
maintained by the owner or person in charge thereof in a clean, sanitary, and inoffensive
condition, and free and clear of all obnoxious substances, rubbish, and weeds.
(b) Attachment to Buildings
All signs attached to a building shall not obstruct any fire escape, exit, standpipe, or any window
required for light or ventilation. The signs shall be placed flat against the building and project no
further than eighteen (18) inches from the building except where specifically allowed in this
ordinance.
(c) Freestanding Sign Placement
All signs not attached to any building or structure shall maintain at least a ten (10) foot setback
from any lot line and shall not be placed in a public right-of-way unless specifically stated
otherwise in this ordinance. No such sign shall project over a property line or a public right-of-
way, except where allowed in this ordinance, and all required clearances from overhead power
and service lines must be maintained. Signs placed near the corner of two intersecting streets
shall comply with clear sight triangle requirements (refer to Article VII, Section 32-246 through
32-251 - Sight Obstructions at Intersections).
(d) Illumination
All illuminated signs must be in compliance with the city’s outdoor lighting requirements in
Section 44-20. In addition, illumination for all signs shall be constant and steady. See also
Section 7.d. (Prohibited Signs).
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(e) Licensing
All contractors installing permanent or temporary portable signs must first obtain a contractor’s
license prior to issuance of a sign permit or installation of a permanent or temporary portable
sign as defined in the city contractor and subcontractor ordinance (Article VI).
Section 11. Special Purpose and Temporary Signs Permitted in All Zoning Districts
All signs listed below do not require a sign permit and shall not count towards the building or
property maximum signage allowed unless otherwise noted:
(a) Construction Signs
One (1) construction sign is permitted just prior to or during construction of a development.
Each construction sign shall not exceed a ratio of one (1) square foot of sign area for each one
thousand (1,000) square feet of lot area. In no case shall the area of the sign exceed sixty-four
(64) square feet and ten (10) feet in height. The sign shall be removed after major construction
has finished.
(b) On-Site Directional Information Signs
On-site directional information signs not exceeding six (6) square feet and six (6)feet in height
are permitted for all types of property except single and double-dwelling lots.
(c) Off-Site Directional Signs for Nonprofit or Civic Businesses
Off-site directional signs for legally recognized nonprofit businesses (e.g. 501.c3 designated
businesses) as well as civic organizations (i.e. churches, parks, nature centers, historic sites,
and nursing homes) are allowed in the public right-of-way. Said sign is limited to four (4) square
feet in area with a maximum of three (3) signs per nonprofit or civic business. The location and
design of off-site directional signs must be approved by the city prior to installation.
(d) Garage Sale Signs
Garage sale signs not exceeding three (3) square feet and three (3) feet in height are permitted
on private property or in the public right-of-way. No part of such sign shall be closer than five
(5) feet to the street pavement or one (1) foot to a sidewalk or trail. Said sign shall not be
located between the street and a sidewalk or trail. All signs shall display the actual dates of the
sale and may be erected one (1) day prior to the sale and must be removed within one (1) day
after the sale.
(e) Menu Boards
Menu boards shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feetand six (6) feet in height. Menu
boards shallnot be located as to impair the vision of the driver of a vehicle traveling into, out of,
or through the drive through isle.
(f) No Trespassing Signs
Signs not exceeding nine (9) square feet, located upon private property, and directed towards
the prevention of trespassing.
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(g) On-Site Real Estate Signs
(1) For single and double dwelling lots, one (1) on-site real estate sign not exceeding
nine (9) square feet is permitted for each street upon which the property has frontage.
(2) For all other types of property, one (1) on-site real estate sign is permitted for each
street upon which the property has frontage. Each sign shall not exceed a ratio of one (1)
square foot of sign area for each one thousand (1,000) square feet of lot area. In no case
shall the area of any one sign exceed sixty-four (64) square feet or ten (10) feet in height.
(3) All real estate signs shall pertain to the sale, lease, or rental of the property only and
must be removed within seven (7) calendar days of the close of the property or when ninety
(90) percent or more of the dwelling units on the property have been sold, leased, or rented.
(h) Off-Site Directional or Open House Real Estate Signs
Off-site directional or open house real estate signsnot exceeding three (3) square feet and
three (3) feet in height may be placed on the public right-of-way. No part of such sign shall be
closer than five (5) feet to the street pavement or one (1) foot to a sidewalk or trail. Said sign
shall not be placed between the street and a sidewalk or trail. Off-site directional signs may be
placed in the public right-of-way for thirty (30) days per real estate listing and must include the
name, address, and telephone number of the person responsible for the sign and the date the
sign was installed in the right-of-way. Open house real estate signs may be placed in the public
right-of-way on the day of the open house only.
(i) Off-Site Real Estate Signs
Off-site real estate signs exceeding three (3) square feet may be placed on private property.
Such signs require a permit, shall not be located in the public right-of-way, and the sign
owner/installer must supply written permission to the city from the property owner on which
property the sign is installed. Each development is limited to one such sign. The maximum
area of any such sign shall be sixty-four (64) square feet and the maximum height shall be six
(6) feet. The sign must be removed when at least ninety (90) percent of the dwelling units
approved by the city have been sold or rented.
(j) Noncommercial Opinion Signs
(1) For all types of property, one sign that expresses an opinion or a viewpoint of a non-
commercial nature is allowed in addition to permanent signs as specified in Section 12
(Permitted Signs in Land Use and Zoning Districts). The noncommercial opinion sign shall
not be illuminated or exceed sixteen (16) square feet and six (6) feet in height. For multiple-
unit developments, the sign must be attached to the dwelling unit or placed in alocation that
clearly indicates ownership anddoes not represent the opinions of other residents in the
area who have not agreed to the sign.
(k) Political Campaign Signs
(1) For local regularelections and referendums, political campaign signs may be posted
from August 1 until ten (10) days following said election or referendum.
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(2) For local special elections and referendums, political campaign signs may be posted
from date of filing until ten (10) days following said special election or referendum.
(3) Unsuccessful primary candidates must remove their signs within ten (10) days after any
given primary.
(4) Political campaign signs shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet and six (6) feet in
height.
(5) The number of political campaign signs on one property during an election season is
limited to one (1) per candidate and one (1) per opinion/ballot issue.
(6) All political campaign signs shall be setback at least five (5) feet from the edge of the
nearest street and at least one (1) foot from any sidewalk or trail. Said signs shall not be
placed between a street and a sidewalk or trail or at any other location that obstructs driver
or pedestrian visibility. The consent of the underlying property owner, if the underlying land
is a public right-of-way, or the property owner fronting the proposed location, must be
obtained before placement of such sign. In addition, political campaign signs are prohibited
on obviously public property and utility poles.
(7) In a state general election year, the size, number, and duration of political campaign
sign displays shall comply with the provisions of Minnesota Statute 211.B.045, and nothing
in this ordinance shall be construed as applicable except location restrictions.
(l) Project Signs
One (1) project sign is permitted per property just prior to or during construction. Each project
sign shall not exceed a ratio of one (1) square foot of sign area for each one thousand (1,000)
square feet of lot area. In no case shall the area of the sign exceed sixty-four (64) square feet
and ten (10) feet in height. The sign shall be removed after major construction has finished.
Project signs may be utilized to advertise property for lease or sale just prior to construction, but
must be used in lieu of a separate real estate sign.
(m) Temporary Signs and Displays Under Twelve (12) Square Feet
One (1) non-illuminated temporary sign or display under twelve (12) square feet is allowed per
property (except for single and double dwelling properties) for a period not to exceed thirty (30)
days total per sign. For commercial buildings with multiple occupants, each separate tenant is
permitted one (1) such sign. No more than three (3) temporary signs under twelve (12) square
feet shall be allowed at a property at any one time.
(n) Banners
Banners may be used as temporary signage and are not required to have a permit unless used
for more than thirty (30) days. Banners shall not exceed one hundred fifty (150) square feet in
area or twenty (20) percent of the wall area, whichever is greater. There shall be no more than
one (1) banner at any business location. Each tenant space at a shopping center shall count as
a separate business location. The city council may approve exceptions to this section if the
applicant can show there are unusual circumstances with the request. The council may attach
conditions to their approval to assure that the sign will be compatible with surrounding
properties.
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(o) Window Signs
Window signs may be used as temporary signage, not exceeding 75 percent of the window
area.
Section 12. Permitted Signs in Land Use and Zoning Districts
Signs in Park Designated Land Use in the Maplewood Comprehensive Plan
(a) Temporary sports facility sponsorship signs subject to the following required standards:
(1) Approval of a comprehensive sign plan (also refer to Section 2 – Comprehensive Sign
and Mural Plans).
(2) The Maplewood recreation department will regulate all temporary sponsorship signs.
(3) Sponsorships collected for such signs will be used to help fund recreational facilities
within the park in which they are installed.
(4) Signs can be placed at baseball and softball fields, and shall be located on the outfield
fences or the scoreboard, or both. Such signs shall be oriented toward the field of play.
Number and size of signs dependent on approved comprehensive sign plan.
(5) Signs can be placed at hockey rinks, and shall be located on the interior sides of the
hockey boards. Number and size of signs dependent on approved comprehensive sign
plan.
(6) Signs are allowed to be installed for a period of one (1) year during the baseball,
softball, or hockey season.
(7) Each sign shall provide identifying information for the sponsor such as name, address,
telephone number, or logo; any product advertising shall be incidental and secondary to
sponsor identification.
(8) Such signs shall not be illuminated except by the regular sports facility lighting during
hours of use.
(9) Such signs shall be maintained in good condition.
(b) Park identification signs subject to the following required standards:
(1) Wall Signs. One park or park building identification wall sign up to twenty-four (24)
square feet per street frontage shall be allowed for each park building. The sign may be
affixed to the wall of the building or an overhanging canopy or awning.
(2) Monument Signs. One park identification monument sign up to thirty-two (32) square
feet per street frontage shall be allowed to identify each park. Said sign shall be a maximum
of six (6) feet in height. The sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the
park structures and buildings with the base of the sign consisting of colors and materials
compatible to the structures or buildings.
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(3) Special Event Banners. Special event banners may be displayed for in parks for special
events sponsored or approved by the city. No more than three (3) banners may be
displayed per park at any one time. Each banner shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square
feet. Banners shall be designed to be professional looking and prevented from becoming
torn or weathered.
Signs in Residential Zoning Districts (Districts R-1, R-1R, R-S, R-E, R-2, R-3 and all subsequent
Residential Zoning Districts Adopted after the Date of this Ordinance)
All signs require a sign permit unless otherwise noted.
(a) Professional Occupation Signs
One professional occupation sign of not more than two (2) square feet for a residence with a
permitted home occupation shall be allowed without a sign permit.
(b) Wall Signs
One (1) wall sign up to twenty-four (24) square feet per street frontage shall be allowed for
residential subdivisions and multiple-unit developments and for all legal non-residential uses
excluding home occupation businesses. The sign may be affixed to the wall of the main
building or an overhanging canopy or awning.
(c) Monument Signs
One monument sign up to thirty-two (32) square feet per street frontage shall be allowed by sign
permit for residential subdivisions and multiple-unit developments and for all legal non-
residential uses excluding home occupation businesses. Said sign shall be a maximum of six
(6) feet in height. The sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the building
or project with the base of the sign consisting of colors and materials compatible to the building
or project.
(d) Changeable Copy Message Boards
Changeable copy message boards are permitted as part of a permanent freestanding
monument sign or wall sign for all legal non-residential uses excluding home occupation
businesses. The message board shall not comprise more than seventy (70) percent of the total
square footage of said sign.
(e) Temporary Signs and Displays Over Twelve (12) Square Feet
One temporary sign or display over twelve (12) square feet is permitted by sign permit for up to
thirty (30) days per year, per property. However, the permit fee shall not be charged for
temporary signs and displays erected by civic organizations, religious organizations, or other
non-profit organizations or groups for the purpose of identifying a non-commercial, one-time, or
annual special event. In no case shall the area of the sign exceed thirty-two (32) square feet or
the height of the sign exceeds eight (8) square feet. The time period may be extended to sixty
(60) days during the first year of operation of a new business and ninety (90) days for a
temporary seasonal business. The city shall consider a sign displayed for part of a day as
having been up for an entire day.
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Signs In the LBC (Limited Business Commercial), CO (Commercial Office), and NC
(Neighborhood Commercial) Zoning Districts
All signs require a sign permit unless otherwise noted.
(a) Professional Occupation Signs
One (1) professional occupation sign of not more than two (2) square feet for a residence with a
permitted home occupation shall be allowed without a sign permit.
(b) Wall Signs
(1) For each occupant of a building, one (1) wall sign is allowed for each street upon which
the property has frontage. The total number of wall signs may be increased by one (1) for
each clearly differentiated department of a business or enterprise.
(2) The total area of any one (1) wall sign shall not cover more than twenty (20) percent of
the wall surface to which the sign is attached or thirty-two (32) square feet, whichever is
greater. As an alternative, a wall sign may be placed on an overhanging awning or canopy
as long as the wall sign does not exceed fifty (50) percent of the face of the awning or
canopy, or thirty-two (32) square feet, whichever is less.
(3) For multiple tenant buildings, the wall surface for each tenant or user shall include only
the surface area of the exterior facade of the premises occupied by such tenant or user.
(c) Freestanding Signs
One freestanding sign up to sixty-four (64) square feet and ten (10) feet in height is permitted for
each street upon which the building has frontage. For buildings with multiple street frontages,
each additional freestanding sign must be located on a different street and each said sign must
be separated by more than one hundred (100) feet measured in a straight line between the
signs. The sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the building or project
with the base of the sign consisting of colors and materials compatible to the building or project.
The area around the base of the sign shall also be landscaped including the bottom of a pylon
sign.
(d) Changeable Copy Message Boards
Changeable copy message boards are permitted as part of a permanent freestanding sign or
wall sign but are limited to comprising no more than seventy (70) percent of the total square
footage of said sign.
(e) Temporary Signs and Displays Over Twelve (12) Square Feet
One temporary sign or display over twelve (12) square feet is permitted for up to thirty (30) days
per year, per business. However, the permit fee shall not be charged for temporary signs and
displays erected by civic organizations, religious organizations, or other non-profit organizations
or groups for the purpose of identifying a non-commercial, one-time, or annual special event. In
no case shall more than one temporary sign or display be displayed per property at any one
time. The sign or display shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet or eight (8) feet in height.
The time period may be extended to sixty (60) days during the first year of operation of a new
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business and ninety (90) days for a temporary seasonal business. The city shall consider a sign
displayed for part of a day as having been up for an entire day.
Signs in the BC (Business Commercial), BC-M (Business Commercial Modified), M-1 (Light
Manufacturing), and M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing) Zoning Districts
All signs require a permit unless otherwise noted.
(a) Professional Occupation Signs
One professional occupation sign of not more than two (2) square feet for a residence with a
permitted home occupation shall be allowed without a sign permit.
(b) Wall Signs
(1) For each occupant of a building, one (1) wall sign is allowed for each street upon which
the property has frontage. The total number of wall signs may be increased by one for each
clearly differentiated department of a business or enterprise.
(2) The total size of all wall signage for single-tenant buildings is determined by the gross
square footage of the principal structure on the property. The total coverage area of each
wall sign, including each differentiated business, shall be based on the wall surface to which
the sign is attached.
(3) The following table indicates maximum signage permitted for single-tenant buildings:
Principal Structure Gross Maximum Size and Coverage
Square Feetof Floor Area Area of Each Sign
Less than 10,000 sq. ft 80 sq. ft. or 20% of wall face,
whichever is less
10,000 to 20,000 sq. ft. 100 sq. ft. or 20% of wall face,
whichever is less
20,000 to 100,000 sq. ft. 150 sq. ft. or 15% of wall face,
whichever is less
Greater than 100,000 sq. ft. 200 sq. ft. or 10% of wall face,
whichever is less
(4) The total coverage area of each wall sign for multiple-tenant buildings is ten (10) percent
of the surface area of the exterior façade of the premises occupied by such tenant, or thirty-
two (32) square feet, whichever is more.
(5) A wall sign may be attached to an overhanging awning or canopy, instead of the façade
of the building, as long as the wall sign does not exceed fifty (50) percent of the face of the
awning or canopy, or the maximum size specified above, whichever is less.
(c) Gas Station Canopies
Gas stations are allowed one (1) additional wall sign that may be attached to the façade of the
building or the overhanging canopy above the pump island. The wall sign on the canopy shall
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not exceed fifty (50) percent of the face of the canopy, or the maximum size specified above,
whichever is less.
(d) Freestanding Signs
(1) One (1) freestanding sign is permitted for each street upon which the property has
frontage. For properties with multiple street frontages, each additional freestanding sign
must be located on a different street and each sign must be separated by more than one-
hundred (100) feet measured in a straight line between signs, excluding auto dealerships.
(2) The total size and maximum height of each freestanding sign is determined by the street
classification (as designated in the Maplewood comprehensive plan) of the closest street to
which each freestanding sign is located. In the case of signs located at an intersection, the
higher ranking street classification should be used to determine the maximum height and
size allowable for a freestanding sign. Businesses that are located on a frontage road
designed to provide safe access to minor arterials and principal arterials shall be permitted
to erect a freestanding sign up to the determined maximum height and size allowable for a
freestanding sign on said minor arterial or principal arterial road to which it is adjacent.
(3) The following table lists the maximum size and heights permitted for freestanding signs:
Classification of Street Maximum Sign Maximum Height of Maximum Height of
Abutting Property Size (sq. ft.) Pylon Sign (feet) Monument Sign (feet)
Principal Arterial 180 25 12
Minor Arterial 140 20 12
Collector Street 100 15 10
Local Street 80 12 10
(4) The freestanding sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the
building or project, with the base of the sign, including pylon sign poles, consisting of
materials and colors compatible to the building or project.
(e) Changeable Copy Message Boards
Changeable copy message boards are permitted as part of a permanent freestanding sign or
wall sign but are limited to comprising no more than seventy (70) percent of the total square
footage of said sign.
(f) Auto Dealerships
Auto dealerships may have one (1) freestanding sign identifying the dealership, plus one (1)
freestanding sign advertising each car franchise. The maximum sign area and height for the
freestanding signs shall be determined by the classification of the abutting roads, as specified
above. More than one (1) freestanding sign may be allowed per street frontage provided said
signs are separated by more than one hundred fifty (150) feet measured in a straight line
between the signs.
(g) On-Site Dynamic Display Signs (refer to Section 13 – Dynamic Display Signs).
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(h) Billboards
(1) Off-premise billboards shall only be permitted with a conditional use permit and may
only be located adjacent to a principal arterial street in the SC (shopping center), BC
(business commercial), M-1 (light manufacturing), and M-2 (heavy manufacturing) districts.
(2) Spacing. No billboard sign shall be located within two thousand, three hundred (2,300)
feet to another billboard on the same side of the street, within one hundred (100) feet to a
commercial, industrial, institutional building, or an on-premises sign, and within two hundred
and fifty (250) feet to a residential district or eight hundred (800) feet to a residence.
Billboards shall maintain a setback of fifty (50) feet from any property line, five hundred
(500) feet to a local park, and three hundred (300) feet from the nearest intersecting street
corner of two public roads.
(3) Size. The maximum area of the sign face of a billboard shall not exceed four hundred
fifty (450) square feet, including border and trim, but excluding base, apron supports, and
other structural members. The said maximum size limitation shall apply to each side of a
sign structure. Signs may be placed back-to-back or in a V-type arrangement if there are no
more than two (2) sign faces, provided that the open end separation shall not exceed fifteen
(15) feet. A billboard may only display one message at a time on any sign face. The
maximum height for billboards shall be thirty-five (35) feet.
(4) Off-site dynamic display signs (refer to Section 13 - Dynamic Display Signs).
(i) Temporary Signs and Displays Over Twelve (12) Square Feet
One temporary sign or display over twelve (12) square feet is permitted for up to thirty (30) days
per year, per business each calendar year by sign permit. However, the permit fee shall not be
charged for temporary signs and displays erected by civic organizations, religious organizations,
or other non-profit organizations or groups for the purpose of identifying a non-commercial one-
time or annual special event. The time period may be extended to sixty (60) days during the
first year of operation of a new business and ninety (90) days for a temporary seasonal
business. The city shall consider a sign displayed for part of a day as having been up for an
entire day. In no case shall more than one temporary sign or display be displayed per property
at any one time. The sign or display shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet or eight (8) feet
in height.
Signs in the Mixed-Use (M-U) Zoning District
All signs require a permit unless otherwise noted.
(a) Sign Review
The community design review board shall review all signage on new buildings or developments
to ensure that the signs meet mixed-use sign requirements and are architecturally compatible
with the new building or development. In addition, the community design review board shall
review all comprehensive sign plans as required in Section 2 (Comprehensive Sign Plan).
All signage on mixed-use buildings or developments (buildings or developments previously
approved and built with mixed-use design standards) shall be reviewed by the director of
community development and shall be done in a manner that is compatible with the original
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scale, massing, detailing and materials of the original building. All signage on non-mixed-use
buildings or developments (buildings or developments not built with mixed-use design
standards) shall be reviewed by the director of community development and shall comply with
the mixed-use sign requirements, unless classified as a pre-existing nonconforming sign in
which case it shall comply with Section 44-12 (nonconforming buildings or uses).
(b) Projecting Signs
Projecting signs are allowed as part of the overall signage. Projecting signs may not extend
more than four (4) feet over a public right-of-way and a private road or sidewalk, and must not
project out further than the sign’s height.
(c) Overall Wall Signs
Allowable area of overall wall and projecting signage for each establishment is one and one-half
(1 ½) square feet of signage per lineal foot of building or frontage on a road, public open space
or private parking area, or thirty-two (32) square feet, whichever is greater. Each wall shall be
calculated individually and sign area may not be transferred to another side of the building.
Minor motor vehicle stations with canopies are allowed to place signage on the canopy and the
building as long as they do not exceed the requirements above. Wall and projecting signs shall
not cover windows or architectural trim and detail.
(d) Freestanding Signs
One (1) freestanding sign for each establishment is allowed if the building is set back at least
twenty (20) feet or more from the front property line. Freestanding signs must meet the
following requirements:
(1) Limited to six (6) feet in height and forty (40) square feet.
(2) Maintain a five (5) foot setback from any side or rear property line, but can be
constructed up to the front property line.
(3) Must consist of a base constructed of materials and design features similar to those of
the front façade of the building or development.
(4) Must be landscaped with flowers or shrubbery.
Section 13. Dynamic Display Signs
(a) Findings. Studies show that there is a correlation between dynamic displays on signs and
the distraction of highway drivers. Distraction of drivers can lead to traffic accidents. Drivers
can be distracted not only by a changing message, but also by knowing that the sign has a
changing message. In such a case, drivers may watch a sign waiting for the next change to
occur. Drivers also are distracted by messages that do not tell the full story in one look. People
have a natural desire to see the end of the story and will continue to look at the sign in order to
wait for the end.
Additionally, drivers could be more distracted by special effects used to change the message,
such as fade-ins and fade-outs. Finally, drivers are generally more distracted by messages that
are too small to be clearly seen or that contain more than a simple message.
Due to these public safety concerns, the city should only allow the use of these technologies
with certain restrictions. The restrictions are intended to minimize driver distraction, to minimize
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their proliferation in residential districts where signs can adversely impact residential character,
and to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.
Local spacing requirements could interfere with the equal opportunity of sign owners to use
such technologies and are not included. Without those requirements, however, there is the
potential for numerous dynamic displays to exist along any roadway. If more than one dynamic
display can be seen from a given location on a road, the minimum display time becomes critical.
If the display time is too short, a driver could be subjected to a view that appears to have
constant movement. This impact on drivers would be compounded in a traffic corridor with
multiple signs. If dynamic displays become pervasive and there are no meaningful limitations on
each sign’s ability to change frequently, drivers may be subjected to an unsafe degree of
distraction and sensory overload. Therefore, requiring a limit on display times on dynamic signs
is in the public interest.
A constant message is typically needed on an on-site sign so that the public can use it to
identify and find an intended destination. Changing messages detract from this way-finding
purpose and could adversely affect driving conduct through last-second lane changes, stops, or
turns, all of which could result in traffic accidents.
In conclusion, the City of Maplewood finds that dynamic displays should be allowed on off and
on-site signs but with significant controls to minimize their proliferation and their potential threats
to public health, safety, and welfare.
(b) Noncommercial dynamic display signs are allowed wherever commercial dynamic display
signs are permitted and are subject to the same standards and total maximum allowances per
site or building of each sign type specified in this ordinance.
(c) Standards for all dynamic display signs:
(1) The images and messages displayed on the sign must be complete in themselves,
without continuation in content to the next image or message or to any other sign;
(2) Every line of copy and graphics in a dynamic display must be at least seven inches in
height on a road with a speed limit of 25 to 34 miles per hour, nine inches on a road with a
speed limit of 35 to 44 miles per hour, twelve (12) inches on a road with a speed limit of 45
to 54 miles per hour, and 15 inches on a road with a speed limit of 55 miles per hour or
more.
(3) Dynamic display signs must be designed and equipped to freeze the device in one
position if a malfunction occurs. The displays must also be equipped with a means to
discontinue the display if it malfunctions, and the sign owner must stop the dynamic display
within one hour of being notified by the city that it is not meeting the standards of this
ordinance.
(4) Dynamic display signs must meet the brightness standards contained in subdivision (h)
below.
(d) On-site dynamic display signs are allowed subject to the following conditions:
(1) Located in the Business Commercial (BC) or Heavy or Light Industrial (M-2 and M-1)
zoning districts only.
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(2) The images and messages displayed on the on-site dynamic display sign must be
static and each display must be maintained for a minimum of two minutes; and the
transition from one static display to another must be instantaneous without any special
effects.
(3) Are allowed as part of a permanent freestanding sign, provided that the sign comprises
no more than fifty (50) percent of the total square footage of said sign face.
(4) Must be located at least two hundred (200) feet from any property where there are
structures used for residential purposes or from any park or open space land use district.
(5) Must be located at least one hundred (100) feet from any side property line.
(6) Display and advertisement of products, events, persons, institutions, activities,
businesses, services, or subjects which are located on the premises only or which give
public service information.
(e) Off-site dynamic display signs are allowed subject to Section 12 (Billboard Signs in BC, BC-
M, M-I, and M-2), the above-mentioned standards for all dynamic display signs, and the
following additional condition:
(1) The images and messages displayed on the sign must be static and each display must
be maintained for a minimum of fifteen (15) seconds and the transition from one static
display to another must be instantaneous without any special effects.
(f) Incentive. Off-site signs do not need to serve the same way-finding function as do on-site
signs and they are distracting and their removal serves the public health, safety, and welfare.
This clause is intended to provide an incentive option for the voluntary and uncompensated
removal of off-site signs in certain settings. This sign removal results in an overall advancement
of one or more of the goals set forth in this that should more than offset any additional burden
caused by the incentive. These provisions are also based on the recognition that the incentive
creates an opportunity to consolidate outdoor advertising services that would otherwise remain
distributed throughout Maplewood.
(g) Reduction of Sign Surfaces
(1) A person or sign operator may obtain a permit for a dynamic display sign on one surface
of an existing off-site sign if the following requirements are met:
a) The applicant agrees in writing to reduce its off-site sign surfaces by one by
permanently removing, within fifteen (15) days after issuance of the permit, one surface
of an off-site sign in the city that is owned or leased by the applicant, which sign surface
must satisfy the criteria of part (2) of this subsection. This removal must include the
complete removal of the structure and foundation supporting each removed sign surface.
The applicant must agree that the city may remove the sign surface if the applicant does
not do so, and the application must identify the sign surface to be removed and be
accompanied by a cash deposit or letter of credit acceptable to the city attorney
sufficient to pay the city’s costs for that removal. The applicant must also agree that it is
removing the sign surface voluntarily and that it has no right to compensation for the
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removed sign surface under any law. Replacement of an existing sign surface of an off-
site sign with a dynamic display sign does not constitute a removal of a sign surface.
b) If the removed sign surface is one that a state permit is required by state law, the
applicant must surrender its permit to the state upon removal of the sign surface. The
sign that is the subject of the dynamic display sign permit cannot begin to operate until
the sign owner or operator provides proof to the city that the state permit has been
surrendered.
(2) If the applicant meets the permit requirements noted above, the city shall issue a
dynamic display sign permit for the designated off-site sign. This permit will allow a dynamic
display to occupy one hundred (100) percent of the potential copy and graphic area and to
change no more frequently than once every fifteen (15) seconds. The designated sign must
meet all other requirements of this ordinance.
(h) Brightness Standards.
(1) The following brightness standards are required for all dynamic display signs:
a) No sign shall be brighter than is necessary for clear and adequate visibility.
b) No sign shall be of such intensity or brilliance as to impair the vision of a motor
vehicle driver with average eyesight or to otherwise interfere with the driver’s operation
of a motor vehicle.
c) No sign may be of such intensity or brilliance that it interferes with the effectiveness
of an official traffic sign, device or signal.
(2) The person owning or controlling the sign must adjust the sign to meet the brightness
standards in accordance with the city’s instructions. The adjustment must be made within
one hour upon notice of non-compliance from the city.
(3) All dynamic display signs installed after the date of adoption of the Dynamic Display Sign
Ordinance (August 20, 2008) must be equipped with a mechanism that automatically adjusts
the brightness in response to ambient conditions. These signs must also be equipped with a
means to immediately turn off the display or lighting if the sign malfunctions, and the sign
owner or operator must turn off the sign or lighting within one hour after being notified by the
city that it is not meeting the standards of this ordinance.
(4) In addition to the brightness standards required above, dynamic display signs shall meet
the city’s outdoor lighting requirements (Section 44-20(1)).
(i) Public Safety. If city staff determines that a dynamic display sign is not being operated
pursuant to this ordinancedue to its location or display capabilities, city staff can require that the
sign be moved, removed, or modified after notice to the property owner.
(j) Licensing. No person shall operate an off-site or on-site dynamic display sign in the city
without first obtaining a yearly license as defined in the city licensing ordinance (Article II).
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The city council approved the first reading of this ordinance on November 23, 2009.
The city council approved the second reading of this ordinance on January 25, 2010.
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