A. It is the intent of these sign regulations to define the allowable uses of signs within the zoning jurisdiction and to regulate the time, place, and manner of signs without regulating speech or content.
B. This Article is to ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right of free speech is protected.
C. The purpose of regulating signs is to protect public health, safety, and general welfare as well as:
1. Guide pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle traffic
2. Identify and minimize safety hazards to drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians
3. Eliminate excessive and confusing signs
4. Prevent blight and clutter
5. Encourage context-sensitive signs
6. Protect public and private investments
7. Support the desired quality aesthetics and development patterns in various zoning districts
8. Provide, maintain, and enhance the aesthetics, safety, and welfare of neighborhoods and the community
9. Provide adequate opportunity for signs
10. Protect free speech
A. No sign shall be erected or altered until a sign permit has been issued by the Zoning Administrator, except as explicitly allowed by these regulations.
B. All signs shall be considered accessory structures by definition. No land, personal property, object, or structure shall be used for sign purposes except as specified in this article.
C. Adherence to the regulations and provisions of this article are the responsibility of the property owner.
D. The regulations and requirements of this article apply to all signs that are or are intended to be viewed from a public right-of-way or adjacent property, or that are intended to be viewed from outdoor areas of private property, except as otherwise exempt under this article.
E. The Zoning Administrator is responsible for administering and enforcing all provisions of this article, other than those specifically reserved and assigned to other designated officials or other entities.
F. The Zoning Administrator is responsible for determining the appropriate sign category or sign type based upon professional judgment and interpretation of the definitions provided herein.
G. The boundaries and locations of all zoning districts referenced in this article are illustrated on the City’s Official Zoning Map.
H. Sign regulations are based upon the land use and zoning district of a zoning lot as described in Article 05 and Article 06.
I. Regulations based upon zoning districts are intended as supplemental standards to the general provisions and district regulations.
J. Proposed signs for which the code is silent or where rules of this article do not provide a clear basis for concluding that the sign is allowed, shall be prohibited.
K. If the regulations, descriptions, and examples do not provide adequate guidance to clearly address a specific situation, the Zoning Administrator shall consider the stated intent of the regulation and its relationship to other regulations and situations and determine applicability based on the most comparable means of regulation provided herein.
The owner of any authorized or legal nonconforming sign may substitute sign copy in lieu of any other sign copy. Such changes affecting the copy only may be made at any time without additional approval or permitting. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary. This clause shall not be construed to include structural alterations, changes to required dimensions or other modifications.
Abandoned Sign Structure: A sign structure on which no sign has been installed for a continuous period of at least one-hundred and eighty (180) days.
Aggregate Sign Area: The combined total area of all sign faces on a single zoning lot.
Awning: A covered framework attached to a building that projects over a door or window to provide protection from the weather or sun, which may a sign placed on its exterior surface..
Beacon: An artificial light source that projects a concentrated beam of light intended to attract or divert attention to its location. Such devices regulated by this article are not intended to apply to those required by applicable safety regulations.
Decorative Cap: An element of the sign structure that plugs the open end of a sign post to keep water from entering the post, which also has aesthetic appeal.
Dilapidated Sign: A sign that is structurally unsound, unsafe, defective, or is in need of maintenance.
Incidental Sign: A small sign, emblem or decal with an area of two (2) square feet or less that provides specific information to individuals viewing it from within the site and engaged in an activity or use occurring on the zoning lot.
Marquee: A permanent canopy structure attached to a building over an entrance that offers protection from the weather, which is common in theater architecture to support a marquee sign.
Off-Premise Sign: A sign that is not directly related to a use, structure or activity found on the zoning lot where it is displayed.
On-Premise Sign: A sign that is directly related to a use, structure or activity found on the zoning lot where it is displayed.
Parapet Wall: A portion of an exterior building wall that extends higher than the main wall.
Permanent Sign: A sign designed for perpetual display and constructed of durable materials, which may be issued a permanent sign permit per these regulations or which is specifically exempted from these regulations.
Primary Sign: The largest and most prominent permanent on-premise sign installed on a zoning lot.
Prohibited Sign: A sign that does not conform to or is not allowed by these regulations, excluding legal nonconforming signs.
Roof Line: A line that follows the upper-most edge of a building, including the roof, parapets, and any taller projections. Secondary Sign: All signs not deemed to be primary signs, excluding incidental signs.
Sign: A medium of visual communication that conveys a message, portrays an image, provides information, or attracts attention.
Sign Base: The portion of a freestanding sign structure that supports the sign body and contacts the ground or foundation.
Sign Body: The cabinet, frame or portion of a sign structure that displays the sign face, excluding the base or decorative cap.
Sign Classification: The means identifying the characteristics by which signs are regulated per this article. Signs are classified according to structural and display characteristics, both of which comprise the specific classification of an individual sign.
Sign Copy: The words, letters or graphic elements on a sign that convey a its message, idea or purpose. Sign Face: The surface of a sign upon which the sign copy is placed or attached.
Sign Foundation: The component of a freestanding sign made of concrete or similar material to which the base or support structure is anchored, and which extends below the ground surface to provide lateral and vertical stability.
Sign Panel: An individual portion of a sign face that is clearly distinguished from other portions by its design and construction.
Sign Permit: A written certificate issued by a designated official of the City of Augusta, which certifies that a proposed sign conforms to these regulations, has permission to be installed, and is authorized for display as stipulated by the permit so long as it remains in conformance. Sign permits may be issued for permanent installation or temporary display.
Sign Setback: The minimum required distance between a sign and the exterior boundary of the zoning lot where it is installed.
Sign Support Structure: The structural support and bracing elements for a sign, including posts and poles.
Structural Alteration: The modification of a sign or sign structure that affects the size, shape, height, or sign location; changes in structural materials; or replacement of electrical components with other than comparable materials.
Structural alteration does not include ordinary maintenance or repair, repainting an existing sign surface, including changes of message or image, exchanging painted and pasted or glued materials on painted wall signs, or exchanging display panels of a sign through release and closing of clips or other brackets.
Temporary Sign: A sign designed to be displayed for a limited time period, which may be issued a temporary sign permit per these regulations or which is specifically exempted from these regulations.
The three (3) structural sign categories are Portability, Installation, and Structure Type. Classification uses one class from each structural category. An example classification is Fixed; Freestanding; Monument.
A. Portability. Describes the ability to be moved between locations. Portability classes are:
1. Fixed - Designed and constructed to remain in one location.
2. Portable - Designed and constructed to be easily moved between locations.
B. Installation. Describes the method by which a sign is mounted to or displayed from a structure, object, or surface. Installation classes are:
1. Building - Describes a support structure that is securely anchored to a building; or a sign that is fastened or applied directly to an exterior building surface.
2. Freestanding - Describes an independent support structure anchored to a foundation that is solely intended to support a sign.
3. Ground - Describes a support structure placed directly in or on the ground, but not anchored to a foundation.
4. Tethered - Describes a sign secured to a fixed object or structure by strap, chain, tape, etc.
5. Vehicle - Describes a sign that is mounted on or applied directly to a portable support structure, such as a motor vehicle or trailer.
C. Structure Type. Indicates the physical characteristics or location of a sign support structure.
1. Air-Activated - A non-rigid sign expanded and supported by wind or forced air blown onto the surface or through the body. Classified as Portable; Tethered; Air-Activated.
2. Awning - An awning that serves as a support structure for a sign attached or applied to the exterior surface. Classified as Fixed; Building; Awning.
3. Canopy - A canopy that serves as the support structure for a sign mounted on or applied to the vertical face. Classified as Fixed; Building; Canopy.
4. Column - A support structure upon which a sign is elevated on one or more vertical supports each having a width more than ten percent (10%) of the sign body’s width. Classified as Fixed; Freestanding; Column.
5. Inflatable - A non-rigid sign expanded and supported by air or gas filling the interior of the body without freely passing through. Classified as Portable; Tethered; Inflatable.
6. Marquee - A marquee that serves as the support structure of a sign mounted on the vertical face. Classified as Fixed; Building; Marquee.
7. Monument - A support structure with an integrated body and base having the same general width from bottom to top. Classified as Fixed; Freestanding; Monument.
8. Pole - A support structure upon which a sign is elevated on one or more vertical supports each having a width less than ten percent (10%) of the sign body’s width. Classified as Fixed; Freestanding; Pole.
9. Projecting - A support structure mounted to a building wall with the sign face oriented perpendicular to the wall surface. Classified as Fixed; Building; Projecting.
10. Roof - A support structure mounted to a building roof. Classified as Fixed; Building; Roof.
11. Secured Attachment - The fixed object or structure to which a tethered sign, other than Air-Activated or Inflatable, is attached. Classified as Portable; Tethered; Secured Attachment.
12. Sidewalk - A rigid sign displayed on a pedestrian walkway that is held in place by its own weight or by being weighted down. Classified as Portable; Ground; Sidewalk.
13. Wall - A support structure mounted to a building wall with the sign face oriented parallel to the wall surface. Classified as Fixed; Building; Wall.
14. Window - A sign painted on or applied to a window pane, installed in a window, or installed such that it can be seen from outside the window, which has a sign face oriented and intended to be viewed from outside of the building. Classified as Fixed; Building; Window.
15. Yard - A sign displayed in a lot’s yard area that held in place by weight, sleeve insertion, ground insertion, or being placed in a back- filled hole. Classified as Portable; Ground; Yard.
The four (4) sign display categories are: Panel Quantity, Panel Type, Movement, and Lighting. Classification uses one class from each category. An example display classification for a sign with one panel is One-Panel; Full Frame; Static; Non- Illuminated.
Signs having multiple panels use the number of panels for Panel Quantity with Panel Type, Movement, and Lighting indicated for each panel. Individual panels are listed in top to bottom order and lettered beginning with (A) for the top-most panel. An example display classification for a sign with three panels is Three-Panel; (A) Full Frame; Static; Non-Illuminated; (B) Full Frame; Static; Internal Illumination; (C) Electronic Message; Dynamic; Internal Illumination. Regulations shall apply to multiple-panel signs according all applicable sign panel types.
A. Panel Quantity. Indicates the number of panels that make up the sign face. Panel Quantity is classified using the number of sign panels. For example, a sign with one panel is One-Panel, a sign with two panels is Two-Panels, and so forth.
B. Panel Type. Indicates panel characteristics such as message location, framing, or medium.
1. Air Motion - A sign panel structurally classified as Portable; Tethered; Air-Activated, having forced air blown through the body to create motion. May only be used as a One-Panel sign. Display is classified as Dynamic; Non-Illuminated
2. Balloon - A sign panel structurally classified as Portable; Tethered; Inflatable, which may float in the air or be secured in contact with the ground or a fixed object. May only be used as a One-Panel sign. Display is classified as Static; Non-Illuminated.
3. Banner - A sign panel structurally classified as Portable; Tethered; Secured Attachment, which has no rigid frame and is mounted to hang flush against a surface or suspend between tethering points. May be used only as a One-Panel sign. Display is classified as Static; Non-Illuminated.
4. Blade - A non-rigid sign face attached to a flexible pole with one or more unsecured sides allowing movement in the wind. Structurally classified as Portable; Ground; Yard. May only be used as a One- Panel sign. Display is classified as Dynamic; Non-Illuminated.
5. Changeable Copy - A sign panel that allows manual changes to the message, content, position or display of its copy, which has no video display or mechanical means of changing copy. May be used with any structural classification that does not have Tethered installation. May be used in multi-panel signs. Display is classified as Dynamic; External Illumination, Internal Illumination or Non-Illuminated.
6. Digital Video - An electronic sign panel with capable of displaying enhanced textual and graphic effects, animation, or full-motion video. Structurally classified as Fixed; Building or Freestanding, with any applicable Structure Type. May be used in multi-panel signs. Display is classified as Dynamic; Internal Illumination.
7. Electronic Message - An electronic sign panel that can be programmed to change copy automatically, but does not have full-motion video display capabilities. May be used with any structural classification that does not have Tethered installation. May be used in multi-panel signs. Display is classified as Dynamic; Internal Illumination.
8. Flag - A sign panel made of fabric that may be attached to a pole on one side allowing it to move in the wind or hung from a structure or fixed object. Structurally classified as Portable; Tethered; Air-Activated. Display is classified as Dynamic; External Illumination or Non-Illuminated.
9. Free-Form - A sign panel that takes the shape of copy elements with no visually discernible frame, which is attached to a freestanding support structure, mounted to a building, or applied directly to a building wall or canopy. Structurally classified as Fixed; Building or Freestanding, with any applicable Structure Type. May be used in multi-panel signs. Display is classified as Static; External Illumination, Internal Illumination or Non-Illuminated.
10. Full Body - A sign panel that fully covers the entire sign body width and height without cutouts or spatial voids. Structurally classified as Fixed; Building or Freestanding; with any applicable Structure Type. May be used in multi-panel signs. Display is classified as Static; External Illumination, Internal
11. Mechanical Movement - A sign panel with no video display that is designed to mechanically change the message, content, position or display of its copy or physically move portions of the sign body. Structurally classified as Fixed; Freestanding; Column or Pole. May only be used as a One-Panel sign. Display is classified as Dynamic; External Illumination or Non-Illuminated.
12. Partial Body - A framed sign panel that partially covers the sign body width or height leaving spatial voids. Structurally classified as Fixed; Building or Freestanding; with any applicable Structure Type. May be used in multi-panel signs. Display is classified as Static; External Illumination, Internal Illumination or Non-Illuminated.
C. Movement. Indicates if a sign face or panel moves, has moving external components, visually portrays motion, or allows copy changes.
1. Dynamic - A sign face or panel having any portion designed to move, create the appearance of motion, or change copy. Actual movement may occur by wind/air action or mechanical means. The appearance of motion may be portrayed by blinking, flashing, changing images, or video display. Copy changes may be made digitally, mechanically, or manually
2. Static - A sign face or panel that is not designed to move, portray motion, or change copy.
D. Lighting. Indicates if a sign face or panel is illuminated by an artificial light source.
1. External Illumination - A sign face or panel illuminated by an artificial light source located outside of the body and aimed toward the sign.
2. Internal Illumination - A sign face or panel with an artificial light source illuminating the sign from within, having a video screen, or having copy that is comprised of an artificial light source such as neon tubes or light-emitting diodes (LED).
3. Non-Illuminated - A sign face or panel with no means of illumination by an artificial light source.
A. Primary Building Elevation
1. The primary building elevation is the side of a building with the main entrance that typically faces the street frontage to which the lot is addressed.
2. The wall area of the primary building elevation shall be determined as follows:
a. When scaled architectural elevations are provided to depict the elevation of the structure, the vertical wall area of the elevation shall be the wall surface of the building elevation exclusive of roofs, parapets and false fascia, except that a parapet on the primary building elevation, that is part of a parapet of a uniform height and building material on three sides of a structure may be included in the elevation area, but decorative parapet extensions of irregular height on one or two sides of a structure are excluded from the calculation.
b. When architectural plans are not provided, it shall be assumed that the height of the elevation of the first floor is twelve (12) feet and that the height of the elevation of all floors above the first floor is ten (10) feet per floor. The area of the elevation is then calculated based on the formula:
((building width) X (12 feet)) + ((building width) X (number of additional floors) X (10 feet))
B. Setbacks for Fixed Freestanding signs shall be measured as the distance between the property line and the nearest point on the sign or sign structure.
C. Street frontage shall be measured parallel to the centerline of the public street. Where a zoning lot has more than one public street frontage, street frontage shall be the combined linear street frontage.
D. Sign clearance shall be measured from the highest point of the ground directly below the sign to the lowest point of the sign structure.
E. Total Sign Height (also referred to as sign height)
1. The total sign height of freestanding signs shall be measured from the ground elevation at the base of the sign structure to the highest element of the sign structure. For signs that may vary in height, such as Inflatable signs, the total sign height shall be measured from the ground elevation at the base of the sign structure to the highest element of the sign structure at its peak elevation.
2. For building signs, the total sign height shall equal the sign face height.
F. Sign Area
1. The sign area shall include the entire area of the sign face. The area of a sign face shall be calculated by multiplying the sign face width by the sign face height using a rectangular shape that completely encloses the sign face.
2. The sign area of a Free-Form sign panel shall include the entire area within a single rectangle enclosing the extreme limits of the sign copy and other graphic element used to portray the sign’s message.
3. The sign area of Digital Video and Electronic Message displays shall include the entire panel area plus the surrounding frame or body.
4. A sign designed to be viewed from two (2) or more directions shall be considered one (1) sign, provided that the sign faces are parallel or form an angle of no more than ten (10) degrees. If one sign face is larger, the larger of the two sign faces shall be used to determine the sign area.
5. For cylindrical sign structures, the sign area shall be area of the largest flat plane rectangle that would bisect the sign structure and be completely contained within the outer bounds of the sign structure.
6. The aggregate sign area shall be the sum of all sign area for signs on a zoning lot, not including incidental signs.
A. Signs placed by or at the direction of the City of Augusta or other government agency with such authority, within the right-of-way or on a lot owned by a unit of government.
B. Signs required by federal, state, or local statute.
C. Signs identifying historic events, buildings, or other aspects of Augusta and authorized by the City.
D. Signs not visible and distinguishable beyond the zoning lot where the sign is located.
E. Incidental signs as defined per Section 08.04 and other signs directly related to a use or activity occurring on the same zoning lot that display specific information intended solely for individuals engaged in said use or activity, and not intended as general public information.
F. Flag signs, subject to the following provisions.
1. Up to three (3) Flag signs with a maximum height of twenty-five (25) feet, subject to zoning district maximum height restrictions and applicable Building Code requirements.
2. Such signs with a sign area not exceeding forty (48) square feet, provided the aggregate area of all flag signs on a zoning lot shall not exceed seventy-eight (78) square feet.
3. Exempted Flag signs shall not count towards the allowable aggregate sign area for signs on a zoning lot.
G. Antique or collectible signs displayed as a personal or museum exhibit, painted on a wall or architectural element of a historic building or displayed outdoors as merchandise for sale in a manner consistent with these regulations.
H. A display of goods in a window.
I. Signs carried by a person.
J. Scoreboards and off-premise signs on athletic fields which are oriented towards the field of play.
K. Signs affixed to or incorporated into machines or equipment by the manufacturer or distributor.
L. Vehicle signs on vehicles used for deliveries, service calls, or other routine business purposes, provided the vehicle on which the sign is displayed shall be:
1. Legally licensed and registered.
2. Operable and used for a purpose specifically related to the sign’s message.
3. Parked in a lawful and authorized location.
M. Portable signs exempted per Section 08.12.
A. Signs that are not in full compliance with this article, other than legal nonconforming signs.
B. Signs which by location, color, illumination level, or design element conflict with traffic control signs or traffic signals or that may interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
C. Privately owned signs on or above public right-of-way or other government-owned property, except as approved, allowed, or required by the owning agency pursuant to a government contract or franchise.
D. Vehicle signs visible from the public right-of-way that are not otherwise exempt.
E. New signs located on property without the permission of the property owner except those authorized or required by federal, state, or local government.
F. Signs incorporating beacon lighting or strobe lights.
G. Signs which emit smoke, particulate matter, sound, odor, or other visible vapors.
H. Signs which prevent free ingress or egress from any door, window, or fire escape.
I. Abandoned sign structures.
A. Construction Materials
1. Permanently installed sign structures for signs structurally classified as Fixed; Freestanding shall be constructed of non-combustible materials, except for wood or other materials capable of providing sufficient structural strength that are allowed by the Building Code.
2. Signs structurally classified as Fixed shall be constructed of durable all-weather materials.
B. Sign Placement
1. Signs shall not be placed on or otherwise attached to any tree, utility pole, light pole, or traffic control sign.
2. Signs and sign structures shall not block or interfere with pedestrian access on sidewalks, building entrances or exits, wheelchair ramps, or otherwise violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
3. Signs and sign structures shall not obstruct vehicular access of a driveway, alley, parking area, or other designated vehicular access area.
4. Signs shall not be placed in or extend into public rights-of-way, except as specifically allowed per this article. When allowed, such signs may be required by the City to be temporarily or permanently modified or removed due to construction or other official purpose. Modification or removal will be at the expense of the owner. In cases of temporary modifications and removals, legal nonconforming signs may be reinstalled without being brought into conformance.
5. Setbacks and Sight Triangles
a. Permanent freestanding signs shall be setback at least five (5) feet from the property line or ten (10) feet from the edge of the street pavement, whichever distance is greater.
b. Signs placed in a sight triangle shall not exceed three (3) feet in total sign height. Sight triangle is defined in Section 03.03, with further guidance provided in Section 04.06.L.
C. Aggregate Sign Area
1. Maximum aggregate sign area for a lot with a multi-tenant commercial principal structure (i.e. shopping center, office building) in a M-1, C-1, C-2, C-3 or I-1 zoning district may be divided between the number of individual units in the structure upon the discretion of the property owner and subject to permit approval.
2. Maximum aggregate sign area for a zoning lot shall not be exceeded. Exceptions shall not be allowed by variance, conditional use, or other adjustment, unless specifically provided herein.
D. Portable Signs
1. Vehicle signs are subject to applicable regulations for the appropriate vehicular code when in use on public roadways.
2. Shall be on-premise signs only and shall be limited to temporary display for a period no longer than ninety (90) consecutive days.
3. Portable signs may temporarily replace legal Fixed signs removed by a government agency due to a construction project. The quantity, size, and area of such signs shall be limited to that equal to the removed Fixed signs. The original legally permitted signs shall be reinstalled within ten (10) days of project completion. In such cases, a sign permit shall not be required.
E. Building Signs
1. Shall be on-premise signs only.
2. Awning & Marquee Signs
a. Shall not extend taller than the highest point of the awning, canopy, or marquee to which is it affixed.
b. May extend into public right-of-way if mounted to a building that is setback no more than six (6) feet from the property line.
3. Projecting Signs
a. Shall only be affixed to a building and shall not extend vertically beyond the highest point of the building.
b. The edge of the sign body nearest the wall shall be no more than twelve (12) inches from such wall.
c. May extend horizontally up to six (6) feet into public right-of-way only if mounted to a building that is setback no more than six (6) feet from the property line. In no case shall such signs extend to within two (2) feet of the curb face or street pavement edge, where no curb is provided.
d. No more than thirty (30) square feet of the sign face area may extend into the right-of-way.
e. There shall be a minimum sign clearance of eight (8) feet, except that signs projecting into a sight triangle shall have a minimum clearance of ten (10) feet.
4. Roof Signs
a. Shall not extend vertically beyond the highest point of the building to which it is affixed or extend horizontally more than twelve (12) inches beyond the face of the nearest building wall.
b. If mounted on a pitched roof, the sign face shall be oriented parallel to the nearest building wall.
c. Support structures shall not extend above the sign.
5. Canopy & Wall Signs
a. Shall not extend vertically beyond the highest point of the wall or structure to which it is affixed or extend horizontally more than twelve (12) inches from the building to which it is affixed.
b. May extend into public right-of-way if mounted to a building that is setback no more than twelve (12) inches from the property line.
6. Window Signs
a. The aggregate sign area of all window signs displayed on/in/through a window shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the said window’s total surface area.
F. Fixed Freestanding Signs
1. Shall not be located within twenty (20) feet of another sign structurally classified as Fixed; Freestanding.
2. Shall have a landscape planting area installed if the zoning lot on which it will be installed meets the Supplemental Landscape Buffer Requirement criteria of Section 09.05.
a. The planting area shall be defined by permanent edging or curbing that extends at least three (3) feet from the base of the sign around the entire perimeter.
b. At least twenty-five percent (25%) of the defined planting area shall be covered with some combination of ornamental deciduous trees, evergreen trees, shrubbery, ground cover, perennials, or bulbs.
G. Illuminated Displays & Signs with Electrical Components
1. Shall conform to all applicable provisions of the current City of Augusta Building and Electrical Codes.
2. Signs with Internal Illumination displays shall provide the minimum level of illumination necessary for night-time display, without producing unreasonable glare beyond the zoning lot boundaries.
3. Signs with External Illumination displays shall have the light source aimed directly at the sign face. Lighting fixtures shall be shielded to minimize light trespass onto other properties and public rights-of- way.
4. All electrical wiring to shall be concealed from public view. If the sign is Fixed;Freestanding, electrical wiring to the sign shall be placed underground.
5. Wiring diagrams and technical lighting specifications demonstrating conformance to these regulations shall be attached to the sign permit application.
H. Digital Video & Electronic Message Displays
1. Shall conform to all applicable provisions of the current City of Augusta Building and Electrical Codes.
2. Shall be equipped with a working light detector, photocell, or timer that automatically decrease the illumination level for night-time display. If used, timers shall account for seasonal changes in daylight hours.
3. Displays shall be programmed or equipped to turn off or show a full black image in the event of a malfunction that affects more than fifty percent (50%) of the sign face.
Signs that are structurally classified as Fixed shall only be allowed with an approved permanent sign permit, subject to the following provisions and conditions, except as specifically exempted per Section 08.08.
A. A-1, R-R, R-1 & R-2 Zoning Districts
1. Lots with single-family residential primary uses shall be allowed one (1) on-premise sign only in association with a legal conforming home occupation per Article 11, subject to the following provisions.
a. Maximum sign area shall be four (4) square feet.
b. Structural classification shall be limited to Fixed; Building; Wall.
c. Display classification shall be limited to One-Panel; Full Body; Static; Non-Illuminated.
2. Residential subdivisions with active homeowners associations and mobile home parks with R-4 zoning shall be allowed one (1) on-premise sign per vehicular subdivision entrance along a public street, subject to the following provisions.
a. Minimum spacing between signs shall be two-hundred (200) feet.
b. Maximum sign area shall be thirty-two (32) square feet and maximum sign height shall be six (6) feet.
c. Structural classification shall be limited to Fixed; Freestanding; Monument.
d. Display classification shall be limited to One-Panel, Free-Form, Full Body or Partial Body, Static; External Illumination or Non-Illuminated.
3. Lots with primary uses other than single-family residential shall be allowed one (1) on-premise sign per public street frontage, subject to the following provisions.
a. Maximum aggregate sign area shall be one (1) square foot per two (2) linear feet of street frontage or twenty-four (24) square feet, whichever is greater.
b. Maximum sign area shall be twenty-four (24) square feet. Freestanding signs shall have a maximum sign height of six (6) feet.
c. Structural classification shall be limited to:
i. Fixed; Building; Wall.
ii. Fixed; Freestanding; Monument.
d. Display classification shall be limited as follows:
i. No more than one (1) sign shall have an illuminated display (External or Internal Illumination).
ii. Wall signs shall be limited to One-Panel; Free-Form, Full Body or Partial Body; Static; External Illumination or Non-Illuminated.
iii. Monument signs shall be limited to One-Panel or Two-Panel; Electronic Message, Full Body or Partial Body; Dynamic or Static; External Illumination, Internal Illumination or Non- Illuminated.
B. R-3, R-4, M-1, C-1 & C-2 Zoning Districts
Note that the Downtown Design Guidelines provide sign guidance in Downtown Augusta.
1. Lots with single-family residential primary uses shall be regulated per Section 08.11.A.1.
2. Lots with multi-family residential primary uses shall be regulated per Section 08.11.A.2.
3. Lots with non-residential primary uses shall be allowed one (1) on-premise sign per public street frontage, subject to the following provisions.
a. Maximum aggregate sign area shall be one (1) square foot per two (2) linear feet of street frontage or forty (40) square feet, whichever is greater.
b. Signs shall have a maximum sign area of thirty-two (32) square feet. Signs structurally classified as Fixed; Freestanding shall have a maximum sign height of ten (10) feet.
c. Sign classification shall be not be limited, subject to the following sign quantity provisions.
i. No more than one (1) sign shall have a structural classification of Fixed; Freestanding.
ii. No more than two (2) signs shall have illuminated displays (External or Internal Illumination).
C. C-3 & I-1
District Zoning Lots
1. Primary Freestanding Signs: Lots shall be allowed one (1) primary on-premise sign that is structurally classified as Fixed; Freestanding, subject to the following provisions.
a. Signs located along arterial street frontage shall have a maximum sign area of sixty-four (64) square feet and a maximum sign height of twenty (20) feet.
b. Signs located along collector street frontage shall have a maximum sign area of thirty-six (36) square feet and a maximum sign height of fifteen (15) feet.
c. Signs located along local street frontage shall have a maximum sign area of twenty-four (24) square feet and a maximum sign height of ten (10) feet.
d. Sign display classification shall be limited per Section 08.11.C.4.
2. Secondary Freestanding Signs: Lots shall be allowed secondary on-premise signs structurally classified as Fixed; Freestanding, subject to the following provisions.
a. Lots shall be allowed one (1) such sign per public street frontage in locations within twenty (20) feet of a vehicular entrance/exit.
i. Maximum sign area shall be sixteen (16) square feet and maximum sign height shall be six (6) feet.
ii. Minimum spacing between such signs shall be sixty (60) feet.
iii. Sign display classification shall be limited per Section 08.11.C.4.
b. Lots shall have no limit on the number of such signs in internal locations at least eighty (80) feet inside of an external lot line, subject to the following provisions.
i. Maximum sign area shall be eight (8) square feet and maximum sign height shall be six (6) feet.
ii. Maximum aggregate sign area shall be one (1) square foot per four (4) linear feet of street frontage.
iii. Minimum spacing between such signs shall be twenty (20) feet.
iv. Display classification shall be limited to Static movement displays, subject to the lighting display requirements of Section 08.11.C.4.
3. Building Signs: Lots shall have no limit on the number of signs structurally classified as Fixed; Building, subject to the following provisions.
a. Maximum aggregate area shall be limited to ten percent (10%) of the principal structure’s front façade wall area.
b. Such signs shall be allowed on any exterior wall surface of legal conforming structures.
c. Structure type classification shall not be limited.
d. Sign display classification shall be limited per Section 08.11.C.4.
4. Display Classification Provisions
a. Lots shall be limited to four (4) signs with illuminated displays (External or Internal Illumination).
b. Dynamic movement displays shall be limited to one (1) Primary Freestanding sign plus one (1) Secondary Freestanding sign plus one (1) Building sign per zoning lot, subject to the following provisions.
i. Maximum sign area shall be thirty-two (32) square feet, provided such displays may not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total sign area of a multiple panel sign.
ii. Maximum aggregate sign area shall be forty-eight (48) square feet per lot, which shall be counted toward other applicable aggregate sign area limits.
iii. Mechanical Movement displays shall only be allowed on Primary Freestanding signs located along arterial street frontages.
iv. These limits shall not apply to Changeable Copy displays.
5. Highway Frontage Freestanding Signs: Lots with at least fifty (50) feet of frontage along a designated highway or highway on/off ramp shall be allowed one (1) additional sign structurally classified as Fixed; Freestanding, subject to the following provisions.
a. Signs may be on-premise or off-premise with no limits on display classification.
b. Signs shall be located within one-hundred (100) feet of the highway right-of-way line with the sign face oriented perpendicular to traffic flow on the adjacent highway facility.
c. Maximum sign area shall be limited to two-hundred (200) square feet allowed in addition to maximum aggregate sign area limits and maximum sign height shall be thirty (30) feet.
d. Minimum spacing between Highway Frontage Freestanding signs shall be one-thousand (1,000) feet.
e. Signs shall not be located within one-hundred (100) feet of another sign structurally classified as Fixed;Freestanding.
f. Display classification shall not be limited.
6. Flag Signs: Permanent displays of Flag signs exceeding the exemptions per Section 08.08 may be allowed by permanent sign permit approval, subject to the following maximum limits.
a. Maximum sign height may be adjusted up to the zoning district maximum allowable height.
b. Maximum sign area may be adjusted up to ninety-six (96) square feet with a maximum aggregate sign area of two-hundred sixteen (216) square feet.
c. Maximum quantity may be adjusted up to eight (8) Flag signs, provided no individual Flag sign exceeds a sign area of fifteen (15) square feet and aggregate sign area does not exceed one- hundred twenty (120) square feet.
Signs that are structurally classified as Portable shall be allowed subject to the following provisions and conditions, except as exempted per Section 08.08.
A. Lots with single-family residential primary uses within any zoning district shall be allowed Portable signs as follows.
1. Structural classification shall be limited to Portable; Ground or Tethered; Air-Activated or Yard.
2. Display classification shall be limited to One-Panel; Balloon, Banner, Blade or Flag; Non-Illuminated.
3. Up to two (2) Portable signs displayed at any given time shall be exempt from sign permit requirements, provided the aggregate sign area does not exceed twelve (12) square feet and individual signs do not exceed six (6) square feet in sign area or five (5) feet in height.
4. Portable signs in excess of the maximum exemptions per Section 08.12.A.3 shall only be allowed by temporary sign permit approval, subject to the following limits.
a. Up to one (1) additional sign displayed at any one time; maximum of three (3) signs.
b. Up to eight (8) additional square feet aggregate sign area; maximum of twenty (20) square feet.
c. Up to one (1) sign may have a maximum sign area of sixteen (16) square feet.
d. Maximum sign height shall not be adjusted.
B. A-1, R-R, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, M1, & C-1 Zoning Districts: Lots with a primary use other than single-family residential shall be allowed portable signs as follows. Note that the Downtown Design Guidelines provide sign guidance in Downtown Augusta.
1. Structural classification shall be limited to Portable; Ground, Tethered or Vehicle; Air-Activated, Secured Attachment, Sidewalk or Yard.
2. Display classification shall be limited to One-Panel; Air Motion, Balloon, Banner, Blade, Changeable Copy or Flag; Non-Illuminated.
3. Up to two (2) portable signs displayed at any given time shall be exempt from sign permit requirements, provided the aggregate sign area does not exceed sixteen (16) square feet and individual signs do not exceed eight (8) square feet in sign area or six (6) feet in height.
4. Portable signs in excess of the maximum exemptions per Section 08.12.B.3 shall only be allowed by temporary sign permit approval, subject to the following limits.
a. Up to one (1) additional sign displayed at any one time; maximum of three (3) signs.
b. Up to fourteen (14) additional square feet aggregate sign area; maximum of thirty (30) square feet.
c. Up to one (1) sign may have a maximum sign area of twenty (20) square feet.
d. Up to one (1) sign may have a maximum height of eight (8) feet.
C. C-2, C-3, and I-1 Zoning Districts
1. Structural classification shall be limited to Portable; Ground, Tethered or Vehicle; Air-Activated, Secured Attachment, Sidewalk or Yard.
2. Display classification shall be limited to One-Panel; Air Motion, Balloon, Banner, Blade, Changeable Copy or Flag; Non-Illuminated.
3. Up to three (3) portable signs displayed at any given time shall be exempt from sign permit requirements, provided the aggregate sign area does not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet and individual signs do not exceed eight (8) square feet in sign area or six (6) feet in height.
4. Portable signs in excess of the maximum exemptions per Section 08.12.C.3 shall only be allowed by temporary sign permit approval, subject to the following limits.
a. Up to three (3) additional signs displayed at any one time; maximum of five (5) signs.
b. Up to forty (40) additional square feet aggregate sign area; maximum of sixty-four (64) square feet.
c. Up to two (2) signs may have a maximum sign area of thirty-two (32) square feet.
d. Up to two (2) signs may have a maximum height of ten (10) feet.
D. M-1, C1, C-2, & C-3 Zoning Districts: Lots with non-residential primary uses shall be allowed to place one (1) Portable sign per business establishment within public right-of-way at any given time, subject to the following provisions.
a. Such signs shall be placed immediately adjacent to the subject lot and may be displayed only during the establishment’s operating hours.
b. Such signs shall be placed completely outside of the street pavement. If placed on a sidewalk, signs shall not interfere with vehicular or pedestrian traffic and at least three (3) feet of clear sidewalk width shall be maintained at all times.
c. Sign area shall be counted against the maximum aggregate sign area of all Portable signs.
d. Sign height shall not exceed four (4) feet.
A. All signs shall be designed, constructed, and maintained in compliance with applicable provisions of the Building Code and other City codes. Sign supports and structural components shall be painted, constructed of galvanized or non-ferrous materials, or otherwise treated to prevent rust.
B. All signs within the City shall be kept in the same general condition as approved by permit and in a manner that avoids visual detriment to the community at large. This shall include:
1. Maintaining a safe structural condition.
2. Keeping exposed surfaces free of rust and corrosion.
3. Keeping painted surfaces free chips, cracks, flaking, and peeling.
4. Replacing broken components made of glass, plastic, or other materials.
5. Maintaining all lights and electrical components in a safe and operable condition.
6. Maintaining the legibility of textual and graphic sign components.
A. Legally existing permanent signs that do not comply with these regulations may continue to exist as legal nonconforming signs upon the effective date of these regulations.
1. Such signs shall be subject to applicable sign maintenance requirements and other provisions for legal nonconforming structures.
2. Owners of such signs may request a legal nonconforming use certificate per Section 04.10.D.
B. Removal or Modification of Nonconforming Signs
1. Existing signs that do not comply with these regulations, regardless of sign type or legal status, shall be removed or modified in compliance with these regulations under any of the following circumstances.
a. The nature of the business conducted on the premises changes and the sign is changed or modified either in shape, size, or legend.
b. The name of the business changes and the sign is changed or modified either in shape, size, or legend.
c. A principal structure is destroyed or removed due to natural or man-made circumstances, unless a Building Permit has been issued to replace the structure within ninety (90) days.
d. The sign is damaged by any means when the cost of restoring it to original condition exceeds fifty percent (50%) of its replacement cost at the time of damage.
e. The building or use to which the sign applies is vacated, abandoned, or otherwise dormant for a period of time exceeding twelve (12) months.
2. All nonconforming signs required to be removed by these regulations shall be removed within ninety (90) days of notification by the City.
A. No sign permit application shall be accepted without plans and specifications of the proposed sign, which may include relevant drawings with items such as location, dimensions, construction, structural design, electrical design, and illumination specifications.
B. A sign permit shall not be issued for a permanent sign encroaching into or over public right-of-way without the installer first providing a certificate of Accident Public Liability Insurance with minimum coverages of $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident and $25,000 property damage.
C. Review and Action
1. The Zoning Administrator shall review the sign permit application to determine if the proposed sign complies with all the applicable regulations of this article. Sign permits shall be either approved or denied within fifteen (15) days of the application submittal date.
a. A sign permit shall be approved only if determined fully compliant with applicable regulations.
b. If a sign permit is denied, the reasons for denial shall be specified in writing.
2. Issued sign permits shall expire if the work authorized by the permit has not commenced within one-hundred and eighty (180) days from the date of issuance or the authorized work is suspended for a period of one-hundred and twenty (120) days at any time after work has begun. If a sign permit expires, work may proceed only upon issuance of a new sign permit.
D. No sign permit application shall be accepted without the correct filing fee being paid. Individual applications and permit fees shall be submitted for each such sign or other advertising structure on a zoning lot. The schedule of fees, which may be revised periodically by City Council, may be obtained from the Zoning Administrator.
E. All applicable provisions of the Building Code shall be enforced for signs subject to such provisions.
F. Once the sign has been erected or installed, the permit holder shall notify the Zoning Administrator. The sign shall then be inspected for compliance with the approved permit by the Zoning Administrator or designated official. As deemed necessary, any sign erected may be periodically inspected to verify continued compliance.
G. All rights and privileges acquired under the provisions of this article or any amendment thereto, are mere licenses revocable at any time by the Zoning Administrator; and all such permits shall contain this provision.
H. The Board of Zoning Appeals is authorized to grant variances from the specific terms of this article in specific cases. A variance shall be granted only if all of the following provisions are met.
1. It is consistent with purpose and intent of this article.
2. It is permissible under Article 15.
3. It is not contrary to the public interest.
A. Authority
The City shall have the authority to implement and enforce these sign regulations as described below.
1. The Zoning Administrator or other designated official shall be charged with the responsibility and authority to implement these sign regulations as follows.
a. Coordinate with property owners, developers, permit applicants, permit holders, sign designers, and sign installers.
b. Review and approve sign permit applications.
c. Inspect new and existing signs to ensure compliance with these regulations and issued permits.
d. Initiate enforcement actions within the delegated degree of authority.
2. The Zoning Administrator or other designated official may inspect any sign whenever there is reasonable cause to believe a violation of these regulations may exist. Upon being presented with proper credentials by the Zoning Administrator or designated official:
a. No person may refuse entry or access to the site or property where a sign exists when entry is required for the purpose of conducting an inspection.
b. No person may obstruct, hamper, or interfere with such City representatives while in the process of carrying out their official duties.
3. The City shall have the authority to order the removal, modification, minor repair, or maintenance of any sign erected or displayed in the City. This shall include signs that the Zoning Administrator or designated official:
a. Deems unsafe, insecure, or a menace to the public .
b. Finds to be constructed or erected in violation of these regulations or an issued permit, but is not exempt.
c. Determines is not being maintained in accordance with these regulations, but is not exempt.
B. Enforcement
1. If upon inspection the Zoning Administrator or designated official determines the need to order the removal or modification of any sign, the City shall immediately notify the property owner or permit holder in writing.
a. Such written notification shall contain:
i. The action(s) being ordered.
ii. A citation of the specific regulation(s) or code(s) whereby the City has authority to order such action(s).
iii. A citation of the specific regulation(s) or code(s) being violated.
iv. A description of the observed conditions or violations that warrant such ordered action(s).
v. The deadline of ten (10) days for such conditions or violations to be remedied by the ordered action(s).
b. The property owner or permit holder shall notify the Zoning Administrator or designated official upon completing the ordered action(s) by the specified deadline. The Zoning Administrator or designated official shall inspect the subject sign for compliance with the ordered action(s). If the completed action(s) are found to comply with the order, the City shall send the property owner or permit holder a written letter certifying compliance.
c. Should the property owner or permit holder fail to fully complete the ordered action(s) by the specified deadline, the City may either:
i. Re-notify the property owner or permit holder according to the same procedures.
ii. Initiate the ordered action(s) and assess such costs to the property owner or permit holder. The City shall not issue a letter of certification or a subsequent permit for the subject sign to any property owner or permit holder who refuses to pay the assessed costs.
2. If upon inspection the Zoning Administrator or designated official determines the need to order the minor repair or maintenance of a permitted sign, the City shall notify the permit holder in writing of the deficiency and necessary corrective action(s). Should the permit holder fail to prove compliance within thirty (30) days of the date the notification was sent, the City shall cause the owner to be cited for violation of this regulation.