305.12: MASTER SIGN PROGRAM:

A. Purpose. The purpose of a Master Sign Program is to provide a method for an applicant to integrate the design and placement of signs within a project with the overall development design to achieve a more unified appearance. It is not the intent of this section to be used solely to request relief from the sign regulations in order to circumvent any requirements or purpose of this chapter.

B. Applicability. A Master Sign Program may be processed for any development. However, shown below are examples of when a Master Sign Program may be most appropriate:

1. Nonresidential developments of three (3) or more separate tenants that share either the same parcel or structure and use common access and parking facilities (e.g., shopping centers, malls, office complexes and industrial parks); or

2. Developments with multiple structures with limited frontage or no frontage on a public street; or

3. Businesses conducted primarily outside of a building; or

4. New multi-family residential developments of one hundred (100) or more units, or

5. Other developments where the strict application of the sign code unduly restricts the allowable signage that can be located on the parcel.

C. Application. Master Sign Program applications shall contain all written and graphic information needed to fully describe the proposed sign program, including the proposed location and dimension of each sign, as well as proposed color schemes, font types, materials, methods of attachment or support, and methods of illumination. A Master Sign Program application shall also include calculation of total allowed sign area, and total proposed sign area, for the site.

D. Allowable Modifications. A Master Sign Program may provide for additional sign area and other deviations from the standards of this chapter, provided that the Master Sign Program is consistent with the sections on design principles and general standards.

E. Review Authority. All Master Sign Programs are subject to review and approval of the Zoning Administrator, unless the signs are associated with a project that requires City Council review and approval; then the City Council shall review and approve it as part of the overall project approval.

F. Required Findings. In order to approve a Master Sign Program, the decision-making body shall find that all of the following are met, in addition to other applicable regulations in this section:

1. The proposed signs are compatible in style and character with any building to which the signs are to be attached, any surrounding structures and any adjoining signage on the site;

2. Future tenants will be provided with adequate opportunities to construct, erect or maintain a sign for identification;

3. Directional signage and building addressing is adequate for pedestrian and vehicular circulation and emergency vehicle access; and

4. Use of the Master Sign Program provides a more desirable functional and aesthetic appearance than would otherwise be provided by standard code requirements.

G. Lessees to Be Informed of Master Sign Program. Lessees within developments subject to the requirements of an approved Master Sign Program shall be made aware of the Master Sign Program in their lease.

H. Revisions to Master Sign Programs. Revisions to an approved Master Sign Program shall be approved by the Zoning Administrator. (Ord. 1918, 10-7-2025)