ARTICLE 11. SIGN REGULATIONS Contents Signs In General... 631 Prohibited Signs.... 635 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit.... 638 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit.... 648 General Standards for All Signs.... 662 Off Site Signs.... 666 Open Use and Residential District Signs.... 672 Non Residential District Signs.... 675 Special District Sign Regulations.... 682 Signs in County Parks.... 688 Master Sign Plans.... 689 124 229. [Reserved.]... 689 Page 629 of 1165
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(a) General Provisions. Signs In General (1) Purpose and Intent. In this Article, the Board seeks to promote and balance the following substantial public interests: a. To preserve opportunity for expression of individual opinions consistent with constitutional guarantees. b. To set forth limitations on the number, size, and characteristics of signs to reduce the distraction of drivers and to promote public safety. c. To promote the continued attractiveness of Sarasota County as a place to visit, live, and own property by reducing the potential for adverse visual impacts of signs. Such adverse impacts may result from signs that are out of scale or excessive in size or number, improperly located or oriented, inadequately maintained, or signs that otherwise blight or cause adverse impacts on private or public properties, including natural and agricultural areas, bodies of water, neighborhoods, nonresidential areas, and travel ways. d. To provide adequate opportunity for business identification, advertising, and communication. e. To promote the safe flow of traffic and adequate wayfinding to reduce traffic confusion and congestion. (2) Applicability of Article. The provisions of this Article shall govern the number, sizes, location, and character of all signs. No signs shall be constructed, erected, placed or permitted in any location except in conformity with this. Any proposed sign must be a sign type expressly allowed as provided in Sections 124 212, 124 213, and 124 215, and must not be one of the Prohibited Signs as described in Section 124 211, Prohibited Signs. a. New Construction. The requirements of this Article shall apply to all signs constructed, erected or placed after the effective date of this. b. Existing Signs or Sign Structures. Any modification to an existing sign, except for painting, shall require a Sign Permit. Any lawful nonconforming ground sign existing after the effective date of this, shall be brought into conformance with the requirements of height, area, and number in this Article as follows: 1. Any maintenance or modification to an existing nonconforming sign shall require that the sign be brought into compliance with the standards contained in this. Article 11 except for: 1) minor maintenance and repair, or 2) change of face that does not involve change in the configuration or dimensions of the sign or involve an Electronic Message Center. For purposes of this paragraph, minor maintenance and repair shall include only Section 124 210 Signs In General Page 631 of 1165
maintenance or repair work, including: repainting, replacement or architectural enhancement of nonconforming sign supports, braces, guys and anchors, that costs less than 50 percent of the value of the sign and does not involve moving, enlarging, raising, or reconfiguring the sign. 2. All nonconforming ground signs, including multitenant ground signs and electronic message center signs, shall be removed and replaced with ground signage that complies with the standards contained in Article 11, with any alteration of the existing sign except as specified in paragraph 1. above. 3. In accordance with Section 124 46(c)(1)b.2., and subject to the Administrative Adjustment criteria contained in Section 124 46(c)(2), the Administrator may grant an Administrative Adjustment for a nonconforming ground sign that does not exceed the applicable maximum sign height standard by more than five percent or a nonconforming sign that does not exceed the applicable maximum sign area standard by more than ten percent. Where there exists, a substantial hardship associated with bringing the ground sign into conformity with this Article the Board of Zoning Appeals may allow nonconformities with regard to maximum sign height and area to continue. 4. Any sign in the SKOD District that is nonconforming solely in regard to illumination shall be required to come into compliance with the illumination standards of Section 124 218(a)(8) only upon issuance of a Sign Permit for a new sign. 5. Consolidated Signs. i. The provisions of subsection ii. below, shall apply to the individual property owners of all existing ground signs located at a commercial center with uses pursuant to Section 124 76(c) and comprised of parcels or lots with lot widths less than or equal to 50 feet and having: a) Ten or more individual lots or parcels; b) Shared vehicular access and parking; or c) Other shared facilities. ii. Such property owners shall, in a manner acceptable to the County, legally relinquish their right to an individual ground sign. In lieu of the individual ground signs, the commercial center shall be entitled to a consolidated ground sign in accordance with the standards contained in Section 124 213. c. Electronic Message Centers. All Electronic Message Center signs and conversions of existing signs to Electronic Message Center signs permitted under Section 124 213(l) shall require a Sign Permit and conformance with this. Section 124 210 Signs In General Page 632 of 1165
(3) Applicability of Other Code or Regulatory Requirements. Signs or other advertising structures shall be constructed, erected, placed and maintained in strict conformity with County building and electrical codes and all other applicable County regulations. (4) Historic Signs. Any signs that have specifically been determined to be historic signs in accordance with Chapter 66, Article IV, of the County Code, may retain any nonconformity with regard to the size, height or square footage of the sign, location of the sign, illumination of the sign or number of signs. Routine maintenance and repair shall be allowed. All required permits shall be obtained. (5) Sign Permit Required. In those areas under the jurisdiction of the, it shall be unlawful for any person to construct, erect, place, alter, modify, reface or change the face, maintain, or replace any sign not specifically exempted by this, without first securing a Sign Permit to do so from the County, in compliance with this Article and Section 124 49. The application for Sign Permit must be approved or denied within 30 days after receipt of a complete application. If an applicant notifies the Administrator that it does not want to submit any further information in connection with the application, and wants the Administrator to decide whether to approve or deny the application based on what it has already submitted, then the Administrator shall approve or deny the application within 30 days of receipt of such notification. If the Administrator fails to act within the time provided, the application shall be deemed denied and the applicant shall be entitled to appeal as provided herein. The applicant may file a written request to appeal the Administrator's decision within 15 days of receipt of the written decision, or if no written decision is given, within 45 days of the complete application, whichever is sooner. The Board shall hear the appeal within 30 days after the date of receiving the written notice of appeal. If the Board does not grant the appeal, then the applicant may seek relief in the Circuit Court as provided by law. The Administrator shall approve or deny the Sign Permit application based solely on whether it complies with the requirements of this article. (6) Building Permit. All signs that require a Building Permit under applicable codes shall be installed by a contractor licensed by the State of Florida or Sarasota County. (7) Noncommercial Messages Permitted in Substitution. Whenever this or any other sign regulation of the County of Sarasota permits the erection of signs for commercial purposes or for the identification of the property on which the sign is located, the permittee may substitute a noncommercial message in lieu of the message otherwise permitted. a. The right to substitute the noncommercial message does not waive any other requirement imposed by the ordinances of Sarasota County as to number, size, construction, location, lighting, obscenity, safety or any other regulated attribute. b. The right created by this subsection is one of substitution and not one of addition. (8) Unlawful Signs. In case any sign shall be installed, erected or constructed in violation of any of Section 124 210 Signs In General Page 633 of 1165
the terms of this or the Building Code, the County shall notify, by registered mail or written notice served personally, the owner or lessee thereof to alter the sign so as to comply with this or the Building Code and to secure the necessary permit therefore, or to remove the sign. If such order is not complied with within ten days, the County shall remove such sign at the expense of the owner or lessee thereof. (9) Abandoned Signs. Any sign now or hereafter existing which no longer advertises a bona fide business conducted, or a product sold, shall be taken down and removed by the owner, agent, or person having beneficial use of the building, structure, or land upon which such sign shall be found, within 30 days after written notification by the County. If the permittee or owner fails to remove the sign or replace the sign face with a blank panel within 30 days after such notice, such sign may be removed or replaced by the County at the expense of the entity or person having the right to use and possession of the property upon which the sign is located. (10) Sign Maintenance. All signs, together with all their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be maintained so as to present a neat, clean appearance. Painted areas shall be kept in good condition and illumination, if provided, shall be maintained in good working order. The County with written notice may order the removal of any sign that is not maintained in accordance with the provisions of this paragraph. If such order is not complied with within ten days, the County shall remove such sign at the expense of the owner or lessee thereof. (11) Unsafe Signs. Should any sign become insecure, in danger of falling or otherwise unsafe in the opinion of the County, the owner thereof, or the person or firm maintaining the same, shall upon written notice of the County, forthwith in the case of immediate danger and in any case within ten days, remove such sign or secure the same in a manner approved by the County, in conformity with the provisions of the building code. If such order is not complied with within ten days, the County shall remove such sign at the expense of the owner or lessee. (12) Sight Triangle and Visibility. The following areas shall be designed and maintained to allow visibility between two and one half feet and nine feet above grade (tree trunks trimmed of foliage to nine feet, and newly planted material with immature crown development allowing visibility are exempt): a. At the intersection of two public rights of way, a sight triangle described by the intersection of the right of way lines extended, and a line joining points on those lines 35 feet from said intersection. b. At the intersection of a private driveway and a public right of way, a sight triangle described by the intersection of the edge of the driveway and the right of way line, and a line joining points on those lines 13 feet from said intersection. Section 124 210 Signs In General Page 634 of 1165
c. Additional visibility requirements may be imposed by the department where unusual topography or traffic patterns are needed to protect pedestrian or vehicular safety. (13) Setbacks. There are no required setbacks for signs, however all signs shall meet the requirements of subsection (12), above relating to sight triangle and visibility requirements. Signs not meeting this requirement shall be brought into compliance with any alteration of the existing sign. (14) Signs in County Parks. County Parks will be treated like other nonresidential uses, except for the provisions for special events and private signs contained in Section 124 219. (b) [Reserved.] Prohibited Signs. (a) All signs that are not expressly permitted in this Article are prohibited. (1) Animated, Changeable Copy, and Electronic Message Center Signs. a. Animated signs, defined as signs with moving parts or messages, or so operating as to give a viewer the illusion of moving parts, images, or messages including revolving or whirling signs and wind signs are prohibited except as expressly authorized in subsection (15) below. b. Changeable copy signs that are changed manually through the placement of letters or symbols on a panel mounted in or on a track system shall be permitted in accordance with the standards set forth in this Article. c. Electronic Message Center signs are prohibited except as expressly authorized in Section 124 213(l). d. Traffic control devices on public and private road rights of way that are authorized by the authorities controlling that right of way and that are consistent with the current version of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices adopted by the State of Florida may use Electronic Message Centers. e. Sign faces that are not visible from a public right of way, from any body of water other than a lake within a single parcel, or from another lot that is located in a residential or open use district, may use animation or Electronic Message Centers, so long as they remain in compliance with this paragraph. (2) Obscenities. Signs which are obscene are prohibited. (3) Off Site Advertising. Off site advertising signs, except as specifically permitted by this Article are prohibited. (4) Paper or Cardboard Signs. Signs are prohibited that are made of paper or cardboard erected Section 124 211 Prohibited Signs. Page 635 of 1165
outside a completely enclosed building, except for any sign permitted by this Article that is constructed in a manner in which it does not rapidly deteriorate from rain or other elements, is maintained in good condition and is promptly repaired or removed if it deteriorates. (5) Portable Signs. Portable signs are prohibited, whether illuminated or not, except where specifically permitted by the terms of this. A portable sign is any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure or a sign designed to be transported, including, but not limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels; skid mounted signs; signs converted to A or T frames; menu and sandwich board signs. (6) Roof Signs. Roof signs, defined as a sign erected, constructed and maintained wholly upon or over the roof of any building are prohibited. Mansard roof signs that do not extend above the parapet wall of the roof shall be considered wall signs. (7) Signs in Rights of Way. Signs erected on the right of way of any public street, road, or way, or signs overhanging or infringing upon the right of way of any public street, road, or way, are prohibited except as specifically provided in this Article. Signs erected by a government agency in association with government business, signs required to be erected by a government agency, and any other sign allowed to be placed in rights of way by this Article shall satisfy the following additional criteria: a. The sign shall not create a traffic hazard or a detriment to traffic safety by reason of its size, location, movement, coloring, or method of illumination, or by obstructing the vision of drivers, or by obstructing or detracting from the visibility of any official traffic control device by diverting or tending to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles from traffic movement on streets, roads, intersections, or access facilities. b. The sign shall not obstruct the vision of pedestrians. c. The sign shall meet FDOT visibility standards at intersections, driveways or other access points. d. The sign(s) shall not present an unreasonable danger to the health or safety of the applicant or the public. (8) Signs on Public Bus Shelters. Signs on public bus shelters which are installed in the right of way are prohibited unless written authorization has been secured from the Board or their designee. (9) Signs on Public Property. Signs erected on public property other than signs erected by public authority for public purposes are prohibited. (10) Signs Preventing Ingress or Egress to Buildings. Signs so located as to prevent free ingress or egress from any door, window, or fire escape are prohibited. No sign shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape. Section 124 211 Prohibited Signs. Page 636 of 1165
(11) Sound, Gases, Flashes, Projections, or Odors. No sign shall emit any sound, visible or invisible gases, or odor as part of any message, flash, or project three dimensional images or holographic images. (12) Traffic or Pedestrian Hazard. a. Any sign that constitutes a traffic hazard or a detriment to traffic safety by reason of its size, location, movement, coloring, or method of illumination, or by obstructing the vision of drivers, or by obstructing or detracting from the visibility of any official traffic control device by diverting or tending to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles from traffic movement on streets, roads, intersections, or access facilities is prohibited. b. No sign shall be erected in such a manner as to obstruct the vision of pedestrians. c. Any sign that by glare or method of illumination constitutes a hazard to traffic is prohibited. d. Any sign that does not meet FDOT visibility standards at intersections, driveways or other access points is prohibited. (13) Utility Poles and Trees. Signs on or attached to utility poles or trees, shrubs, or plants are prohibited. (14) Vehicle Signs. Trucks, motor vehicles, trailers and similar equipment bearing advertising visible from off site and parked at the business location for the intended purpose of advertising a business, service or product, are considered vehicle signs and are prohibited. Delivery and service vehicles or trailers used on a daily basis in conjunction with an on site business are exempt when they are parked in a location that is not visible from off site, or otherwise creates the least possible visual impact without significant effect on the security of the vehicle or trailer. (15) Wind Signs. Wind signs (any sign or display including, but not limited to, flags or banners, except those flags and banners permitted in this Article; gas, cold air or hot air balloons; streamers; and rotating devices, fastened in such a manner to move upon being subjected to pressure by wind or breeze), are prohibited except where specifically permitted by the terms of this Article. (16) Signs in Waterbodies. Signs may be located only in waterbodies when authorized by the U.S. Coast Guard and all other applicable federal, state and local agencies (including the Sarasota County Water and Navigation Control Authority) in accordance with Water and Navigation Control Authority, Chapter 54, Article XX of the County Code. Commercial signs are prohibited in waterways. (b) [Reserved.] Section 124 211 Prohibited Signs. Page 637 of 1165
Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. (a) Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. The following descriptions and illustrations define the types of signs that may be erected in the County, subject to the specified standards, without the issuance of a Sign Permit. The standards applicable to each type of sign are set forth in the table below. Except for the home based business sign, the signs identified in this Section shall not be considered in determining a property's permitted allotment of permanent ground signs or permanent wall signs pursuant to Sections 124 216, 124 217 and 124 218. (1) Building Markers. Signs cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials and permanently attached to the building. The following standards shall also apply: a. The sign shall not exceed six square feet in area. b. The sign shall carry no commercial message. c. The sign shall not be internally illuminated. d. The sign shall not be more than six feet above grade. Building Markers Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 638 of 1165
(2) Flags. As defined within Article 17. The following standards shall apply: a. The flag shall not be flown from a pole the top of which is more than 35 feet in height, measured from grade. b. Only one flag per pole for flags up to six feet by ten feet, or two flags per pole for flags up to four feet by six feet, may be flown. c. The flagpole shall be located no closer than 13 feet from the edge of any adjacent public rightof way. d. No more than two flagpoles are permitted per lot or parcel. e. Transmission towers approved as a Special Exception pursuant to Chapter 118, Article II of the County Code may be camouflaged as flagpoles, notwithstanding the height requirements of this paragraph. Flags (3) Hanging Sign. A sign that hangs perpendicular to a building wall, down from and is supported by or attached to the underside of a canopy, awning, marquee or other extension of a structure. The following standards shall also apply: a. Only one such sign is permitted per customer entrance. b. The bottom edge of such signs shall be located a minimum of eight feet above the walkway. Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 639 of 1165
c. Such signs shall not exceed two square feet in area. Hanging Sign (4) Home based Business Sign. A sign attached to the wall of a permitted home based business. The following standards shall also apply: a. Only one such sign is permitted. b. Such signs shall not exceed two square feet in area. c. Such signs shall not be internally illuminated. d. Such signs shall be mounted flat against the wall of the principal building with the closest edge of the sign no more than two feet from the main entrance to the residence. Home Based Business Sign Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 640 of 1165
(5) Incidental Signs. A small sign located on any property. The following standards shall also apply: a. Such signs shall not exceed two square feet in area. b. Commercial messages shall not exceed 50 percent of the area of the sign. c. No more than one incidental sign shall be permitted along any one street frontage of a property within 50 feet of the public right of way. If the frontage has driveways, it may have a total of up to two such signs per driveway. Incidental Signs (6) Internal Exempt Signs. A sign with no face visible from any other property in a residential or agricultural district, from any body of water other than a lake within a single parcel, or from any public right of way, and that is located more than 20 feet away from any property boundary. a. Such signs shall be no more than 32 square feet in area and eight feet in height. b. Such signs are not limited as to number. (7) Memorials and Markers in Rights of Way. Memorials and markers within road rights of way that do not constitute traffic control devices. The following standards shall also apply: a. Private parties may not install memorials and markers in County rights of way. b. Such sign must be authorized by the entity controlling the right of way, and must be located as far from the travel way as practicable and where they will not interfere with vehicles, pedestrians, or utilities. c. They shall not contain any commercial advertising. d. Letters, numbers, or other copy shall not be larger than two inches tall. (8) Monuments and Statuary. Monuments, Statuary, Figures, and the like. The following standards shall also apply: Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 641 of 1165
a. Such signs may not be located within ten feet of any street right of way. They are limited to eight feet in height within any required yard, and ten feet in height outside of any required yard up to 50 feet from any property line. If set back more than 50 feet from the property line, they are limited to the actual height of the tallest building on the property that is within 100 feet. b. No more than one such sign may be located within any required street yard. c. Letters, numbers, or other copy shall not be larger than 2 inches tall. (9) Residential Identification Signs. A sign at a residential structure. The following standards shall also apply: a. No more than one such sign is allowed per residential structure. b. The sign shall not exceed two square feet in area, except in any Open Use District, where such sign may be six square feet in area. c. The sign shall carry no commercial message. d. The sign shall not be internally illuminated. Residential Identification Sign (10) Traffic Control Devices. Traffic control devices within a public or private road or bicycle right ofway that are consistent with the current version of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices adopted by the State of Florida and authorized by the authority controlling the right of way. (b) Temporary Signs (No Sign Permit Required). The following descriptions and illustrations define the types of temporary signs that may be erected or held in the County. The standards applicable to each type of sign are set forth below. (1) Hand held Sign. A sign held by a person. Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 642 of 1165
(2) Political Sign. A temporary sign installed during a political or referendum campaign. The following standards are required in all zoning districts. a. Political signs shall be placed only on private property and shall not contain any commercial advertising. b. Such signs shall not block any intersection or driveway clear sight triangle. c. Political signs may be displayed no sooner than 60 days prior to the qualifying date for an election. The signs shall be removed within 21 days after the election. In cases where a final election follows within 75 days of a primary election, the signs may remain during the interim period and up to 21 days after the final election. (3) Additional Standards for Political Signs in Residential Districts: a. Political signs less than six square feet in area may be placed in residential districts in unlimited numbers. b. Political signs up to 16 square feet in area may be placed in residential districts provided the total aggregate area of such signs does not exceed 80 square feet. Political Sign (4) Project Sign. Any temporary freestanding sign at a multifamily or commercial site that is under construction. This is not a tradesman sign. Project signs are prohibited on single family residential lots. a. Only one such sign is permitted per lot or parcel, except that corner lots may have one sign per frontage, separated by not less than 50 feet. b. Each sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area. c. Such sign shall not be illuminated. d. Such sign may be erected once the first construction permit for the project has been issued. Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 643 of 1165
e. If construction is not begun in 60 days or if construction is not continuously and actively pursued to completion, such sign shall be removed. f. The sign shall be removed upon completion of construction or when the construction permit expires. Project Sign (5) Real Estate Sign, Nonresidential. Any temporary sign in a nonresidential district where the premises are for sale or lease. The following standards shall also apply: a. Only one such sign is permitted per parcel for sale or lease, except that corner lots may have one sign per frontage separated by not less than 50 feet. b. The sign shall not be illuminated. c. Each sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area. Real Estate Sign, Nonresidential Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 644 of 1165
(6) Real Estate Sign, Residential. Any temporary sign in a residential district where the premises are for sale or lease. The following standards shall also apply: a. Only one such sign is permitted per lot or home for sale. b. The sign shall not be illuminated. c. The sign shall not exceed four square feet in area. Real Estate Sign, Residential (7) Special Event Sign. A temporary sign in a nonresidential district or at a nonresidential use in a residential district in conjunction with an authorized special event. The following standards shall also apply: a. The approval for such signs shall be issued in conjunction with a temporary use permit or right of way use permit for the special event, where applicable. b. Where only one such sign is erected, it shall not exceed 32 square feet in area. Where two such signs are erected, each such sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area. c. No more than two such signs shall be permitted. Special Event Sign (8) Subdivision Development Sale Sign. A temporary on premises sign in a residential or nonresidential subdivision where more than five lots are for sale. The following standards shall also apply: Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 645 of 1165
a. Only one such sign shall be permitted except that corner lots may have one sign per frontage separated by not less than 50 feet. A maximum of two such signs shall be permitted. b. Each sign may not exceed 32 square feet in area. c. Such signs shall be removed when five percent of the lots in the last phase remain unsold or undeveloped, or five total lots remain to be sold or developed, whichever is greater. Subdivision Development Sale Sign (9) Tradesman's Sign. A temporary sign where tradespeople are actively working on a site. The following standards are required in all zoning districts. a. The sign shall not be illuminated. b. The sign shall not be erected before a Building Permit for trade work has been issued by the County, and must be removed immediately following final inspection of the trade work. c. If construction is not begun in 60 days or if construction is not continuously and actively pursued to completion, such sign shall be removed by the County. (10) Tradesman s Sign Standards in Residential Districts. In addition to the standards in subsection (9) above, the following standards shall also apply in residential zoning districts. a. Up to three signs are permitted per lot or parcel where trades are working on the site, except that corner lots may cluster three signs per frontage, with the two clusters separated by not less than 50 feet. b. The sign shall not exceed four square feet in area. Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 646 of 1165
(11) Tradesman s Sign Standards in Nonresidential Districts. In addition to the standards in subsection (9) above, the following standards shall also apply in nonresidential zoning districts. a. Three signs are permitted per lot or parcel where trades are working on the site, except that corner lots may cluster three signs per frontage, with the two clusters separated by not less than 50 feet. b. Each sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area. Tradesman's Sign (12) Window Sign. A temporary, nonstructural sign affixed to the interior or exterior of a window or door or any other sign containing a message legible from the public right of way or adjacent property clearly intended for public recognition outside the building. The following standards shall also apply: a. Such signs shall not cover more than ten percent of the window area as calculated on the glass area of the building frontage upon which the window signs are installed. A permanent business address shall be permitted in addition to the ten percent coverage. Window signs shall not be included in any calculation of total sign area for the building or tenant. Window Sign Section 124 212 Signs Allowed Without a Sign Permit. Page 647 of 1165
Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. (a) Sign Permit Required. The following descriptions and illustrations define the types of signs that require a Sign Permit in order to be erected in the County. The standards applicable to each type of sign are set forth below. (b) Ground Signs. (1) Agricultural Identification Signs. A freestanding sign at a farm, ranch, grove or other permitted agricultural uses that contains no commercial message. The following standards shall also apply: a. Only one such sign shall be permitted; b. The sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area; and c. The sign shall not be illuminated. Agricultural Identification Signs Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 648 of 1165
(2) College or University Sign. A sign on a college or university campus (does not include colleges or universities leasing space in a shopping center or office building). Such signs shall be located on a college or university campus. Where a college or university is located within owned or leased space within a shopping center or office building, the signage provisions in the underlying zoning district shall apply. At each entrance, colleges and universities shall be allowed either: a. One sign not to exceed 100 square feet in area and 15 feet in height; or b. Two signs, each not to exceed 50 square feet in area and 15 feet in height. College or University Sign (3) Ground Sign. A sign supported by uprights or braces placed upon or in the ground and not attached to any building. This sign type includes: a. Monument sign. A sign constructed on the ground with a continuous footing or foundation with the base at grade. Monument Sign Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 649 of 1165
b. Pole sign. A freestanding sign mounted on one or more poles or columns such that the exposed poles or columns do not exceed four feet in height. Poles or columns may exceed four feet in height when necessary to comply with FDOT clear sight standards, provided that the entire pole or column shall be clad with aluminum or other durable, decorative material. Pole Sign c. Pylon sign. A freestanding sign other than a pole sign, permanently affixed to the ground by a support at least 30 percent of the width of the sign itself. The pylon shall not exceed 50 percent of the width of the sign itself. The required width of a pylon sign structure may be 50 percent where a corridor plan applies. Pylon Sign Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 650 of 1165
(c) Ground Signs, Additional Standards. (1) For properties with multiple nonlocal street frontage (e.g., corner lots, through lots, etc.) one ground sign may be placed along either nonlocal street frontage. For properties fronting on both a nonlocal and local street no ground sign shall be permitted along the local street. In all cases, a property shall be permitted a maximum of one ground sign per nonlocal street on which the property has frontage as long as no two signs are visible off site within a single sight triangle, except as permitted for shopping centers and regional shopping centers as set forth below. (2) Every ground sign shall include a street address or range of addresses for the building or buildings it identifies in accordance with Section 124 214(a)(4). (3) The maximum size of a ground sign is set forth in Section 124 217. (4) Ground signs shall be located no closer than 25 feet from any boundary of a residential district. (5) Ground signs shall meet all FDOT sight distance requirements. (6) No monument sign shall exceed eight feet in height. (7) Ground signs may be externally or internally illuminated, subject to compliance with Section 124 214(g), Sign Illumination. (8) Ground signs are prohibited in waterfront yards. (d) Consolidated Ground Sign, Standards. (1) Consolidated ground signs shall be prohibited along any local street unless the only vehicular access to the property is from a local street. For properties with multiple nonlocal street frontage (e.g., corner lots, through lots, etc.) one consolidated ground sign may be placed along either nonlocal street frontage. In all cases, a property shall be permitted a maximum of one consolidated ground sign. (2) A consolidated ground sign shall include a street address or range of addresses for the building or buildings it identifies in accordance with Section 124 214(a)(4). (3) Consolidated ground signs shall be located no closer than 50 feet from the boundary of a residential district. (4) Consolidated ground signs shall meet all FDOT sight distance requirements. (5) Consolidated ground signs shall have a maximum height of 20 feet. (6) Consolidated ground signs shall have a maximum area of 150 square feet. Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 651 of 1165
(e) Ground Sign, Multitenant Standards. For the purposes of administering Section, 124 210(a)(2)b.2., a multitenant sign is considered a ground sign on a property with two or more tenants. (1) Properties with five or more tenants shall be permitted a multitenant sign with a maximum sign area of 100 square feet. (2) Multitenant ground signs shall have a maximum height of 15 feet. (f) Ground Sign, Shared. A shared ground sign is a ground sign shared by multiple businesses that are located separately on individual lots or parcels. The shared ground sign may be located on the lot or parcel of any of the businesses in lieu of any ground sign for the other businesses sharing the sign. (1) A shared ground sign shall have a maximum height of 20 feet and a maximum sign area of 150 square feet. (2) In the event that the shared ground sign is no longer shared by multiple businesses, it shall be brought into compliance with Section 124 217. The above consolidated ground sign standards only apply when the ground signs for a shopping center meet the requirements of this Article. The standards only apply to ground signs at a shopping center that is comprised of multiple lots that are 50 feet or less in width with each or many of the individual lots having a ground sign. The larger multitenant ground sign is allowed when an establishment consists of five or more tenants or occupants. The shared ground sign applies when two or more properties owners choose to forego individual ground signs on each property and instead elect to share one larger and taller ground sign on one of the participating properties. Ground Sign, Consolidated, Multitenant, Shared (g) Shopping Center Sign. Commercial shopping centers that have: 1) at least 100,000 square feet of leasable area, 2) combined frontage along arterial and collector roadways of at least 500 feet, and 3) a minimum of ten tenant spaces, shall be allowed a maximum of two multitenant ground signs. The following standards shall also apply: Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 652 of 1165
(1) Each multitenant ground sign may be up to 100 square feet in area and 15 feet in height. (2) The multitenant signs shall be placed along and oriented toward only arterial or collector roadways. (3) No more than one ground sign shall be placed along a roadway frontage. (4) Multitenant ground signs on corner lots shall be separated by not less than 50 feet. (h) Shopping Center Sign, Regional. In lieu of the Shopping Center signs described in subsection (g) above, Regional shopping centers that have: 1) at least 500,000 square feet of leasable area, 2) combined frontage along arterial and collector roadways of at least 1,000 feet, and 3) a minimum of 20 tenant spaces, shall be allowed a maximum of four multitenant ground signs, two shopping center identification signs, in addition to the permitted number of regional shopping center entry signs permitted by subsection (i) below and Section 124 217, as defined below. The following standards shall also apply: (1) Each sign may be up to 200 square feet in area and 25 feet in height, except in compliance with a Master Sign Plan as provided in subsection (5) below. (2) The multitenant signs shall be placed along and oriented toward only arterial or collector roadways. (3) No more than two multitenant ground signs and one shopping center identification sign shall be placed along a roadway frontage. (4) Multitenant ground signs on corner lots shall be separated by not less than 75 feet. (5) Regional shopping centers that comply with a Master Sign Plan, approved by the Administrator, meeting the following criteria may apply to the Administrator for an Administrative Adjustment of up to 20 percent to the size and height standards set forth in subsection (1) above. Upon approval, the Master Sign Plan shall be binding as to all ground signs within the regional shopping center. The Administrator's review shall be without reference to the content of the signs so long as they comply with the standards below: a. The proposed signs and their related components shall be similar or complementary in design, through the use of similar or complementary shapes and configurations, colors, construction materials and size; b. The proposed signs use a consistent style and type of illumination; and c. Plans shall depict the landscaping to be provided within ten feet of the sign foundation. (i) Shopping Center Entry Sign, Regional. Monument signs at the entries off of public rights of way into the Regional Shopping Center site. The following standards shall also apply: Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 653 of 1165
(1) One double faced sign or two single faced signs per entry shall be permitted. (2) Each sign may be up to eight feet in height. (3) Each sign shall not exceed 50 square feet in area. (4) Each sign may contain no commercial advertising. (5) The base of each sign shall be landscaped, provided the selected landscaped material will not grow to obscure the sign face. (6) The signs shall not be placed on any public right of way. (j) Subdivision Entry Sign. A sign at the entry into a residential or nonresidential subdivision. The following standards shall also apply: (1) One double faced sign or two single faced signs per entry shall be permitted. (2) Each sign shall not exceed 50 square feet in area and shall have no commercial advertising. (3) The maximum height shall be eight feet. (4) The Administrator may approve locating a Subdivision Entry Sign within a public right of way by way of a consolidated " Subdivision Entry Sign and Right of Way Permit" provided that all of the following criteria are met: a. The permit application shall contain details about the location, size, height (maximum height shall be six feet), and appearance of the sign; b. The sign shall not create a traffic hazard or a detriment to traffic safety by reason of its size, location, movement, coloring, or method of illumination, or by obstructing the vision of drivers, or by obstructing or detracting from the visibility of any office traffic control device by diverting or tending to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles from traffic movement on streets, roads, intersections, or access facilities; c. The sign shall not obstruct the vision of pedestrians; d. The sign shall comply with the sight triangle and visibility requirement in Section 124 210(a)(12) at intersections, driveways or other access points; e. The sign shall not present an unreasonable danger to the health or safety of the applicant or the public; f. Only one double sided or two single sided signs shall be permitted for each entrance into a subdivision; Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 654 of 1165
g. No commercial advertising shall be allowed on the sign; h. Maintenance of the subdivision sign, electricity, landscaping, and related improvements shall be the responsibility of the developer until transferred to the subdivision homeowners' association or the existing homeowners' association; i. Maintenance of the subdivision sign, associated walls, sprinkler systems, electricity, landscaping, and related improvements shall be the responsibility of the developer until transferred to the subdivision homeowners' association. j. The applicant and subdivision homeowners' association shall execute an agreement (in a form acceptable to the County Attorney) that provides for the following: 1. Indemnification of the county from all claims arising in connection with the sign; 2. Agreement that all existing signs on the parcel have been brought into agreement with this article; and 3. Forfeiture of rights to compensation for removal necessitated by government action. The Board shall have the authority to impose such other restrictions and safeguards as may be necessary and appropriate to protect the public welfare including, but not limited to, adequate assurances regarding the maintenance of such signs. All petitions for an off site subdivision sign shall be made through the County, which shall make a recommendation to the Commissioners on each petition. A "community sign" may be located in a right of way with Board approval. Subdivision Entry Sign Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 655 of 1165
(k) Building Signs. (1) Awning or Canopy Sign. Any sign painted on, attached to or otherwise displayed on a canopy or awning. This sign type does not include canopies over gas pumps (wall signs). The following standards shall also apply: a. No such signs shall exceed 20 percent of the area of each awning or canopy (top plus all sides). b. No awning sign shall be back lit. Awning or Canopy Sign (2) Wall Sign. Any sign attached to the exterior wall of a building. This sign type shall include wall signs, canopy signs, projecting signs, marquee signs and signature signs. The following standards shall also apply: a. The maximum size of a wall sign is set forth in Section 124 217. b. Any such sign shall not project more than 18 inches from the building to which it is attached. c. Wall signs shall not project above the elevation of any building or structure. d. Special standards for signature signs are found in Section 124 217(d). Wall Sign Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 656 of 1165
(3) Marquee Sign. A sign attached to the face of a marquee and not projecting above or beneath said marquee face. A marquee is a permanent roof like structure that projects from the wall of a building and may overhang the public way. The following standards shall also apply: a. No more than one such sign shall be permitted for each building frontage that includes an entrance available to the general public. b. The marquee shall not extend beyond the top or sides of the building. c. A marquee shall not be oriented toward any residential district. Marquee Sign (4) Projecting Sign. A sign attached perpendicular to a building or other structure. This definition shall not include hanging signs. The following standards shall also apply: a. Only one such sign is permitted per building frontage with an entrance available to the general public. b. Such signs shall not project into any adjacent right of way. c. The bottom of such signs shall be a minimum of eight feet above the walkway. Projecting Sign Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 657 of 1165
(l) Electronic Message Center Signs. As defined within Article 17. An Electronic Message Center is not allowed as part of an On Site Ground Sign unless consistent with this section. The following standards shall apply: (1) The entire property must be brought into compliance with this Article. The permit application shall clearly indicate on the face of the application that the application is for an Electronic Message Center Sign. The applicant must submit a sign plan for the entire property showing every existing and proposed sign and their types and dimensions, and must remove every unlawful and lawful nonconforming sign from the property. Thereafter, the property must remain in full compliance with this Article. (2) Only one Electronic Message Center sign is permitted per lot. The changeable copy area shall not exceed 50 percent of the allowable area of the ground sign. (3) The message or copy shall not change or move more often than every 8 seconds. It shall change instantaneously, without rolling, fading, or the illusion of movement, and shall not flash or vary in brightness except to change at sunrise or sunset. (4) Electronic Message Center signs shall be constructed with a photocell to compensate for all conditions, day or nighttime hours, and shall adjust the display's brightness to a level that is not in excess of 0.3 foot candles above ambient light levels. At least 30 minutes past sunset, and with the electronic display either turned off, showing all black copy, or blocked, a foot candle meter will be used to record the area ambient light level. An ambient reading will be taken with the meter aimed directly at the electronic display at a distance of 100 feet. To establish the illumination level, the electronic display will be turned on to show all white copy and a second reading taken. The sign owner shall provide upon installation written certification from the sign manufacturer that the light intensity has been factory preset not to exceed the levels specified above, and the intensity level is protected from end user manipulation by password protected software. (5) Electronic Message Center signs shall be allowed only along and oriented to roadways that are classified as collector or arterial roadways: 1) on properties within the Commercial General (CG), Commercial Intensive (CI), Commercial Highway Interchange (CHI), Office, Professional and Institutional (OPI), Commercial Neighborhood (CN), Planned Commerce District (PCD), and Industrial Light Warehouse (ILW) zoning districts, and 2) on properties containing lawful Nonresidential Uses in Open Use and Residential Districts as set forth in Section 124 216. (6) Off site signs may not use Electronic Message Centers. (7) All Electronic Message Center Signs shall be constructed and operated so that the message center defaults to a dark screen when not displaying a message. Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 658 of 1165
(8) To protect the special character, beauty, and ambiance of the waterfront areas and the barrier islands, Electronic Message Centers are prohibited: 1) within 100 feet of any shoreline to which a Waterfront yard requirement would apply under Articles 6 or 7, and 2) anywhere designated as Barrier Islands on the Future Land Use Map in the Comprehensive Plan. (9) The Electronic Message Center portion shall be limited in height to eight feet as measured from grade. (10) Subsections (1) through (5) above do not apply to Internal Exempt or Internal Permitted signs so long as they do not cause illumination of waters, rights of way, or other properties. (m) Miscellaneous Signs. (1) Directory Sign. A sign, or group of signs, that is attached to a building or freestanding, but contains no advertising. The following standards shall also apply. a. Only one such sign shall be permitted at each entrance, and one additional directional sign elsewhere on the premises. b. No single sign shall exceed 16 square feet in area. c. Additional internal directory signs not visible from the street may be permitted as part of a Master Sign Plan. Directory Sign (2) Internal Permitted Signs. A sign with no face visible from any other property in a residential or open use district, from any body of water other than a lake within a single parcel, or from any public right of way, and that is located more than 30 feet away from the property boundary. The following standards shall also apply. a. Such signs shall be no more than 50 square feet in area and ten feet in height. Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 659 of 1165
b. Such signs are not limited as to number. (3) Menu Board. A permanently mounted sign at a drive through or drive in restaurant. a. All Menu Boards. No text or symbol of the sign shall be legible from the public right of way or any adjacent residential district. 1. Drive Through Standards: i. One menu board is permitted per drive through lane. ii. Each menu board shall not exceed 36 square feet in area, and no more than eight feet in height. 2. Drive In Standards: i. No single menu board shall exceed six square feet in area, and no more than eight feet in height. ii. Double sided menu boards may be placed on both sides of a parking space. Menu Board (4) Temporary Signs. The Administrator in accordance with the conditions below may grant permits with such conditions as he/she may reasonably require for safety purposes: a. The Administrator may approve a temporary sign for nonresidential uses operating in a temporary location, going out of business, or in the process of a legal name change with the following conditions: 1. A ground sign may be temporarily covered with a durable material, with a maximum sign area of 75 square feet or as currently in existence, whichever is less. Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 660 of 1165
2. A temporary sign, made of a durable material, may be attached to the building wall. The size shall be limited to a maximum area of 32 square feet, or two square feet per linear foot of the building/tenant frontage, whichever is less. 3. Unless specified elsewhere, the temporary signs shall be limited to a period of 30 days, at which time the permittee may request an extension of one additional 30 day period. All temporary signs shall be maintained so as to present a neat, clean appearance. b. A sign application shall be submitted to the County. A licensed contractor is not required to be listed on an application in order for an applicant to obtain a temporary Sign Permit. c. The permittee shall pay the temporary sign fee provided for by Resolution in effect at the time of application as adopted by the Board. d. Appeals from decisions of the Administrator as to temporary signs shall be made to the Board at a hearing. Public notice is not required. Section 124 213 Signs Requiring a Sign Permit. Page 661 of 1165
General Standards for All Signs. (a) Sign Area. The area of a sign shall include all lettering, wording, designs and symbols, together with the background, whether open or enclosed, on which they are displayed. The supporting structure or bracing of a sign shall be omitted in measuring the area of the sign unless such structure or bracing is made part of the message or face of the sign. The "golden arches" at McDonald's, if used as support for a sign, are clearly integral to the sign message and would be included in the computation of the area of the sign face. Sign Area (1) Where a sign consists of individual letters, words or symbols attached to a building, canopy, awning or wall and all such elements are located in the same plane, the sign area shall be the area of the smallest rectangle which completely encompasses all such letters, words or symbols and any accompanying background of a color different than the natural color of the wall. Where such sign includes multiple words, each word located in the same plane shall be computed separately. Section 124 214 General Standards for All Signs. Page 662 of 1165
Channel letter signs, mounted logos, and similar devices are treated differently than signs in cabinets. The wall area between multiple elements does not count as sign area. (2) The area for a sign with more than one face shall be computed by adding together the area of all sign faces, except where the angle at which the two sign faces are placed does not exceed 60 degrees. In the Siesta Key Overlay District, all sides of the sign face shall count toward the maximum area of the sign, even when two signs are placed at the above referenced angle. It is presumed that where sign faces are placed less than 60 degrees apart, both faces are not readable from any one point. Sign Area with More Than One Face (3) The entire surface area of a multitenant sign that depicts the names of the individual tenants shall count toward the total aggregate area of the sign. (4) All ground signs shall incorporate a street address number or address range. Street address numbers shall be of the letter height specified in Chapter 22, Article VII, County Uniform Addressing System, of the County Code. The area of the address number shall not be computed as part of the sign face unless it exceeds twice the minimum number height requirement. All such street address numbers shall be displayed in accordance with County standards. (b) Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from the base of the sign at a computed grade to the top of the highest attached component of the sign (including the sign face, sign structure, or any other appurtenance). The sign structure may exceed ten percent of the maximum permitted sign height for the purpose of accommodating design elements of the sign structure. This is only allowed where the sign face is not at the maximum permitted sign height. The Section 124 214 General Standards for All Signs. Page 663 of 1165
computed grade shall be the elevation of the nearest point of the crown of a public street or the grade of the land at the principal entrance to the principal structure on the lot, whichever is lower. Sign Height (1) Signs extending or hanging over any sidewalk or pedestrian way shall not be less than eight feet above the surface thereof. Such signs shall not extend over any public street right of way unless a right of way use permit has been issued. (c) Sign Lettering Height. The minimum sign lettering height required in subsection (a)(4) above shall apply to upper case letters. If a sign contains only lower case letters, then all of the letters shall meet the minimum lettering height requirement. (d) Sign Placement and Orientation. (1) No ground sign shall be erected in a manner that materially impedes visibility of moving vehicles or pedestrians on or off the premises. Signs shall be located to avoid impairing visibility of any official highway sign or marker. All ground signs shall meet FDOT sight distance requirements. (2) No ground sign in a residential district shall be erected or maintained within 20 feet of any adjacent residentially zoned property. No ground sign in a nonresidential district shall be erected or maintained within 50 feet of any adjacent residentially zoned property. Where a ground sign cannot meet the standards of this paragraph due to narrow parcel width, the ground sign shall be placed as close to the center of the property frontage as possible. Channel letter signs, mounted logos, and similar devices are treated differently than signs in cabinets the wall area between multiple elements does not count as sign area. Section 124 214 General Standards for All Signs. Page 664 of 1165
(e) Sign Structure. The width of any freestanding sign structure shall not exceed two times the width of the attached sign face. (f) Sign Construction and Materials. All signs, other than temporary signs, shall be constructed of durable materials. (g) Sign Illumination. Sign illumination, where permitted, shall be designed and installed so that it does not cast light directly from any source of illumination on any public right of way or on property in any residential district. (1) Where sign illumination is permitted, external or internal illumination may be used. Internally illuminated signs shall be designed with: a. Individual illuminated letters, i.e., channel letters, including illumination with exposed neon lighting; b. An opaque background; or c. The background of the sign face having a darker color than the content or message of the sign. d. The standards in this subsection shall not apply to the changeable portion of a changeable copy sign. (2) Neon or any similar exposed tube lighting is permitted provided that such lighting shall not be used to outline the perimeter of the sign face or sign structure, or outline or highlight architectural features on a building or structure. Section 124 214 General Standards for All Signs. Page 665 of 1165
Off Site Signs. (a) Types of Off Site Signs. The following descriptions and illustrations define off site signs that may be erected in the County. Specific standards applicable to each type of off site sign are set forth below. (1) Community Sign. An off site sign at the entrance to a municipality or community of more than 2,000 dwelling units that includes a mix of residential and nonresidential land uses and which may or may not lie wholly within unincorporated Sarasota County. The following standards shall also apply. a. Community signs require approval by the Administrator, and a Sign Permit is required. b. Community signs shall be permitted on property abutting or within designated arterial or collector road rights of way when in compliance with the Florida DOT "Green Book" and subject to the review and approval of a right of way use permit by the County. c. A master location plan and typical detail for the community signs shall be submitted with the initial Right of Way Use Permit application. d. These signs may be placed only where the applicant owns both sides of the roadway or has obtained written approval for such signs from the adjacent property owners where the sign is proposed. e. The sign shall not create a traffic hazard or a detriment to traffic safety by reason of its size, location, movement, coloring, or method of illumination, or by obstructing the vision of drivers, or by obstructing or detracting from the visibility of any official traffic control device by diverting or tending to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles from traffic movement on streets, roads, intersections, or access facilities. f. The sign shall not obstruct the vision of pedestrians. g. The sign shall meet FDOT visibility standards at intersections, driveways or other access points. h. The sign shall not present an unreasonable danger to the health or safety of the applicant or the public. i. The sign shall contain no commercial message. j. Only two community signs may be permitted for each designated arterial or collector road entrance into a municipality or community. k. A community sign shall not exceed 100 square feet, including logos, in area and shall not exceed eight feet in height. The signs shall not be back lit. Certain architectural elements or features such as walls, trellises, fencing, logos, etc. shall be allowed to complement these Section 124 215 Off Site Signs. Page 666 of 1165
signs but not be construed as part of the sign. Logos on any community sign or architectural feature shall not exceed 16 square feet and shall be shown on the master plan approved by the Board. l. The Board shall have the authority to impose such other restrictions and safeguards as may be necessary and appropriate to protect the public welfare including, but not limited to, adequate assurances regarding the maintenance of such signs. All petitions for a community sign shall be made through the County, which shall make a recommendation to the Commissioners on each petition. Community Sign (2) Off site Advertising Sign. A sign relating in its subject matter to premises other than the one on which it is located. Off site advertising signs include signs erected by the outdoor advertising industry in the conduct of the outdoor advertising business. a. The standards for off site advertising signs are listed in subsection (b), below. A Sign Permit is required. Public Bus Shelter signs may contain off site advertising, subject to the limitations on those sign types. Internal Exempt and Internal Permitted signs also may contain off site advertising so long as they remain in compliance with the visibility standards for those sign types. Off Site Advertising Sign Section 124 215 Off Site Signs. Page 667 of 1165
(3) Planned District Internal Directional Sign. A sign located at the intersection of an arterial or collector street and a local street within Planned Commerce District (PCD) or Planned Industrial District (PID) zoning districts. Such signs shall not be located within 200 feet of the boundary of the district. The following standards shall also apply. a. Only one such sign shall be permitted on each side of the collector or arterial street. b. The applicant shall provide written consent from the property owner. c. No single sign shall exceed eight feet in height and 15 square feet in size. d. The sign shall not be located in public rights of way. e. Planned District Internal Direction Signs shall contain no commercial advertising. Planned District Internal Directional Signs (4) Public Bus Shelter Sign. An off site sign located on a bus shelter that is lawfully located in public right of way. The following standards shall also apply. a. A maximum of one single or double faced sign per shelter is permitted; b. Such signs shall be installed only on the end of the bus shelter furthest from the approaching bus, perpendicular to the right of way, and shall not exceed 32 square feet in area; c. Such signs shall not impede visibility for the traveling public; and d. The location of all public bus shelter signs shall be approved by the Board. Individual permits for signs shall not be required once the location has been approved. Section 124 215 Off Site Signs. Page 668 of 1165
Public Bus Shelter Sign (b) Off Site Advertising Signs. (1) Off site advertising signs may only be erected in the CG and CI zoning districts following issuance of a Sign Permit. (2) Off site advertising signs shall not exceed 75 square feet in area, and shall not exceed a maximum height of 15 feet above unaltered grade at the site upon which the off site sign is located. For the purpose of this paragraph, unaltered grade shall mean the grade existing at the proposed location of the sign prior to petition for permit. Filling or berming the site to raise the sign height is prohibited. (3) No advertisement, advertising sign or advertising structure shall be constructed or erected, used, operated or maintained within 660 feet of the nearest edge of the right of way of all portions of the Interstate Highway System. (4) Off site advertising signs shall be no nearer than 20 feet to any property line. (5) No off site advertising sign shall be located closer than 5,000 feet to another off site advertising sign which is located along or fronting onto the same right of way, and measured along the centerline of the common right of way, regardless of the side of the right of way upon which the sign is located. (6) No off site advertising sign shall be located closer than 1,000 feet to another off site sign located on an intersecting right of way. This distance shall be measured along the centerline of any intersecting rights of way (streets). (7) No site containing a permitted on site sign shall contain an off site advertising sign. Where sites presently contain both on site and off site advertising signs, the off site advertising sign shall be Section 124 215 Off Site Signs. Page 669 of 1165
deemed nonconforming. The on site signs shall not be increased in size, in number, or in height unless the off site advertising sign is removed. For the purposes of this paragraph, sites shall be considered those parcels or lots legally recorded prior to the effective date of this. (8) When an undeveloped parcel of land containing any off site advertising sign is developed, the offsite advertising sign shall be removed prior to the issuance of a permit for an on site sign. (9) Any off site advertising sign not meeting the requirements of this Article shall be deemed a nonconforming off site sign subject to the provisions of Article15, Nonconformities. (10) All new off site signs shall be on a mono pole or two pole structure. (11) No permit shall be required for the face change of an existing, legal "billboard" type off site sign. (c) Off site Subdivision Entry Sign. An off site sign at the entrance to a subdivision which may or may not lie wholly within unincorporated Sarasota County. The Board may approve locating a Subdivision Entry Sign on an off site parcel by way of an Off site Subdivision Entry Sign Permit provided that all of the following criteria are met: (1) The permit application shall contain details about the location, size, height, and appearance of the sign; (2) These signs may be placed on an off site parcel abutting an arterial or collector roadway provided that the applicant has obtained written approval for such signs from the property owner where the sign is proposed; (3) The off site subdivision sign shall count toward the maximum signage for the parcel on which the sign is located; (4) The sign shall not create a traffic hazard or a detriment to traffic safety by reason of its size, location, movement, coloring, or method of illumination, or by obstructing the vision of drivers, or by obstructing or detracting from the visibility of any official traffic control device by diverting or tending to divert the attention of drivers of moving vehicles from traffic movement on streets, roads, intersections, or access facilities; (5) The sign shall not obstruct the vision of pedestrians; (6) The sign shall comply with the sight triangle and visibility requirements in Section 124 210(a)(12) at intersections, driveways or other access points; (7) The sign shall not present an unreasonable danger to the health or safety of the applicant or the public; Section 124 215 Off Site Signs. Page 670 of 1165
(8) A maximum of two single sided signs shall be permitted for each designated arterial or collector road entrance into a subdivision; (9) A subdivision sign shall not exceed 30 square feet in area, with a maximum height of eight feet; (10) No commercial advertising allowed; (11) Maintenance of the subdivision sign, associated walls, sprinkler systems, electricity, landscaping, and related improvements shall be the responsibility of the developer until transferred to the subdivision homeowner's association; and (12) The applicant and subdivision homeowner's association shall execute an agreement (in a form acceptable to the county attorney) that provides for the following: a. Indemnification of the county from all claims arising in connection with the sign; b. Agreement that all existing signs on the parcel have been brought into agreement with this article; and c. Forfeiture of rights to compensation for removal necessitated by government action. (13) The Board shall have the authority to impose such other restrictions and safeguards as may be necessary and appropriate to protect the public welfare including, but not limited to, adequate assurances regarding the maintenance of such signs. All petitions for an off site subdivision sign shall be made through the County, which shall make a recommendation to the Commissioners on each petition. Off Site Subdivision Entry Sign Section 124 215 Off Site Signs. Page 671 of 1165