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ORDINANCE NO. 14,254
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 44 OF
- THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY
OF LITTLE ROCK PERTAINING TO SIGN
REGULATION IN THE CITY; REPEALING
ALL ORDINANCES AND PARTS OF
ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH;
AND FOR OTHER. PURPOSES.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CITY OF
LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS:
SECTION 1. Chapter 44 of the Code of Ordinances of the
City of Little Rock, Arkansas, is hereby amended to read as
follows:
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 287
PAGE NO.
SECTION ONE - PURPOSE AND SCOPE ...................... 1
Sec. 1.01 - Purpose ... ............................... 1
Sec. 1.02 - Scope ..... ............................... 1
SECTION TWO
- DEFINITIONS ............................
1
SECTION THREE - GENERAL PROVISIONS ...................
5
Sec.
3.01 -
Signs Prohibited .........................
5
Sec.
3.02 -
Sign Permits Required ....................
5
Sec.
3.03 -
Signs Not Requiring Permits ..............
5
Sec.
3.04 -
Maintenance ..............................
5
Sec.
3.05 -
Lighting.. ............................
6
Sec.
3.06 -
Changeable Copy ..........................
6
SECTION FOUR - REGULATION OF SIGNS BY ZONE...........
6
Sec.
4.01 -
Signs Permitted in All Zones .............
6
Sec.
4.02 -
Signs Permitted in Residential One and
Penalties......... ................
Two Family Zones... ...........
6
Sec.
4.03 -
Signs Permitted in Multifamily Zones.....
6
Sec.
4.04 -
Signs Permitted in Institutional and
Sec.
7.07
- Sign Appeal Board ........................
Office Zones.. .... ... .. ...........
.....
7
Sec.
4.05 -
Signs Permitted in Industrial Zones......
7
Sec.
4.06 -
Signs Permitted in Commercial Zones......
8
Sec.
4.07 -
Standards for Off - Premise Signs..........
8
Sec.
4.08 -
Special Regulations and Allowances
GENERAL REPEALER ....................
14
for All Signs ...........................
9
SECTION FIVE
- NONCONFORMING SIGNS ...................
9
Sec.
5.01 -
Determination of Nonconformity...........
9
Sec.
5.02 -
Loss of Nonconforming Status .............
9
Sec.
5.03 -
Maintenance and Repair of Nonconforming
Signs .... ...............................
10
Sec.
5.04 -
Repealer .. ...............................
10
Sec.
5.05 -
Retainer .. ...............................
10
SECTION SIX - CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS............ 10
Sec.
6.01
- Compliance with Building, Electrical and
Traffic Codes ...........................
10
Sec.
6.02
- Anchoring . ...............................
10
Sec.
6.03
- Wind Loads.. ...... ....... .....
10
Sec.
6.04
- .Additional Construction Specifications...
10
SECTION SEVEN - ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT.......
11
Sec.
7.01
- Responsibility..... ...................
11
Sec.
7.02
- Application for Permits ..................
11
Sec.
7.03
- Permit Fees ..............................
11
Sec.
7.04
- Permit Conditions, Refunds and
Penalties......... ................
12
Sec.
7.05
- Inspection Upon Completion ...............
12
Sec.
7.06
- Administration ...........................
12
Sec.
7.07
- Sign Appeal Board ........................
13
Sec.
7.08
- Jurisdiction .............................
13
Sec.
7.09
- Violat'
ons ...............................
13
Sec.
7.10
- Penalties . ...............................
14
SECTION EIGHT - CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY AND
GENERAL REPEALER ....................
14
Sec.
8.01
- Conflict .................................
14
Sec.
8.02
- Severability .............................
14
Sec.
8.03
- General Repealer .........................
14
SECTION ONE
PURPOSE AND SCOPE 2 88
SEC. 1.01 - PURPOSE
The purpose of this Ordinance shall be to control and coordinate the
type, placement and physical dimensions of signs within the different
land -use zones; to recognize the commercial communication requirements
of all sectors of the business community; to encourage the innovative
use.of design; to promote both renovation and proper maintenance; to
allow for special circumstances; and to guarantee equal treatment
under the law through accurate record keeping and consistent
enforcement. These shall be accomplished by regulation of the
display, erection, use and maintenance of signs. The use of signs is
regulated according to the zoning classification in which it is
located. The placement and physical dimensions of signs are regulated
primarily by type and length of street frontage. No sign shall be
permitted as a main or accessory use except in accordance with the
provisions of this Ordinance.
SEC. 1.02 - SCOPE
This Ordinance shall not relate to building design. Nor shall the
Ordinance regulate official traffic or government signs; the copy and
message of signs; window displays; product dispensers; scoreboards on
athletic fields; flags of any nation, government, or noncommercial
organization; gravestones; barber poles; religious symbols;
commemorative plaques; the display of street numbers; or any display
or construction not defined herein as a sign.
Thus, the primary intent of this Ordinance shall be to regulate signs
of a commercial nature intended to be viewed from any vehicular public
right -of -way.
SECTION TWO
DEFINITIONS
Certain terms are defined for the purposes of this Ordinance as
follows:
Abandoned Sign - A sign which no longer identifies or advertises a
bona fide business, lessor, service, owner, product or activity,
and /or for which no legal owner can be found.
Administrator - The person designated by the City Manager to enforce
this ordinance.
Animated Sign - Any sign which incorporates in any manner mechanical
movement, or apparent movement achieved by electrical pulsations or
other means such as sequential light phasing.
Area - (See "Sign, Area of ").
Awning - A shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall
of a building constructed of nonrigid materials on a supporting
framework (compare "Marquee ")..
Awning Sign - A sign painted on, printed on, or attached flat against
the surface of an awning.
Banner Sign - A sign made of fabric or any nonrigid material with no
enclosing framework.
Billboard - (See "Off- Premise Sign ").
Building - As defined in Sec.-2.01 of 1979 edition of the Standard
Building Code.
01
0 289
Changeable Copy Sign (Automatic) - A sign on which the copy changes
automatically on a lampbank or through mechanical means, e.g.,
electrical or electronic time and temperature units.
Changeable Copy Sign (Manual) - A sign on which copy is changed
manually in the field, e.g., readerboards with changeable letters.
City - Unless the context clearly discloses a contrary intent, the
word "City" shall mean the "City of Little Rock."
Clearance (of a Sign) - The smallest vertical distance between the
grade of the adjacent street or street curb and the lowest point of
any sign, including framework and embellishments, extending over that
grade.
Construction Sign - A temporary sign identifying an architect,
contractor, subcontractor, and /or material supplier participating in
construction on the property on which the sign is located.
Copy - The wording on a sign surface in either permanent or removable
letter form.
Director - Director of Public works Department.
Directional /Information Sign - An on- premise sign giving directions,
instructions or facility information and which may contain the name or
logo of an establishment but no advertising copy, e.g., parking or
exit and entrance signs.
Double -Faced Sign - A sign with two faces.
Electrical Sign - A sign or sign structure in which electrical wiring,
connections or fixtures are used.
Facade - The entire building front including the parapet, wingwalls,
etc.
Face of Sign - The area of a sign on which the copy is placed.
Festoons - A string of ribbons, tinsel, small flags or pinwheels.
Flashing Sign - A sign which contains an intermittent or sequential
flashing light source used primarily to attract attention. Does hot
include changeable copy signs, animated signs, or signs which,. through
reflection or other means, create an illusion of flashing of
intermittent light (compare "Animated Sign," "Changeable'Copy Sign ").
Freestanding Sign - A permanently attached sign supported upon the
ground by poles or braces and not attached to any building.
Frontage - The length of the property line of any one premise along a
public right -of -way on which it borders. ,
Frontage, Building - The length of an outside building wall on a
public right -of -way.
Government Sign - Any temporary or permanent sign erected and
maintained by the city, county, state, or federal government for
traffic direction or for designation of or direction to any school,
hospital, historical site, or public service, property, or facility.
Height (of a Sign) - The vertical distance measured from the highest
point of the sign, including decorative embellishments, to the grade
of the adjacent street or the surface grade beneath the sign,
whichever is less (compare "Clearance ").
Identification Sign— A sign whose copy is limited to the name and
address of a building, institution, or Person and /or to the activity
or occupation being identified.
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Illegal Sign - A sign which does not meet the requirements of this 290
code and which has not received legal nonconforming status.
Illuminated Sign - A sign with an artificial light source incorporated
internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign.
Incidental Sign - A sign, emblem or decal of one square foot or less
informing the public of goods, facilities or services available on the
premises, e.g., a credit card sign or a sign indicating hours of
business.
Lot - A parcel of land legally defined on a subdivision map recorded
with the assessment department or land registry office, or a parcel of
land defined by a legal record of survey map.
Maintenance - For the purposes of this Ordinance, the cleaning,
painting, repair or replacement of defective parts of a sign in a
manner that does not alter the basic copy, design or structure of the
sign.
Mansard - A steeply sloping ornamental roof -like structure commonly
used on exterior walls of buildings having flat, or nearly flat roofs.
Marquee - A permanent roof -like structure or canopy of rigid materials
supported by and extending from the facade of a building (compare
"Awning ").
Marquee Sign - Any sign attached to or supported by a marquee
structure.
Nameplate - A nonelectric on- premise identification sign giving only
the name, address and /or occupation of an occupant or group of
occupants.
Nonconforming Sign - A sign which was erected legally but which does
not comply with subsequently enacted sign restrictions and
regulations.
Occupancy - The portion of a building or premises owned, leased,
rented or otherwise occupied for a given use.
Off - Premise Sign - A sign structure-advertising an establishment,
merchandise, service or entertainment, which is not sold, produced,
manufactured or furnished at the property on which said sign is
located, e.g. "billboards" or "outdoor advertising."
On- Premise Sign - A sign which pertains to the use of the premises on
which it is located.
Owner - A person recorded as such on official records. For the
purposes of this Ordinance, the owner of property on which a sign is
located is-presumed to be the owner of the sign unless facts to the
contrary are officially recorded or otherwise brought to the attention
of the Administrator, e.g., a sign leased from a sign company.
Painted Wall Sign - An sign which is applied with paint or similar
substance on the face of a wall.
Parapet - The extension of a false front or wall above .a roofline.
Permanent Mounting - To set, fix or secure in or on a support, thereby
allowing such sign to become'a fixed object to be used for the purpose
of which it was intended.
Person - For the purposes of this Ordinance, any individual,
corporation, association, firm,, partnership or legally recognized
entity.
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291
Point of Purchase Display - Advertising of a retail item accompanying
its display, e.g., an advertisement on a product dispenser.
Pole Cover - Covers enclosing or decorating poles or other structural
supports of a sign.
Political Sign - For the purposes of this Ordinance, a temporary sign
used in connection with a local, state or national election or
referendum.
Portable Sign - Any sign designed to be moved easily and not
permanently affixed to the ground or to a structure or building.
Premises - A parcel of land with its appurtenances and buildings
which, because of its unity of use, may be regarded as a conveyable
unit of real estate.
Projecting Sign - A sign, other than a flat wall sign, which is
attached to and projects from a building wall or other structure not
specifically designed to support the sign.
Real Estate Sign - A temporary sign of 32 square feet or less
advertising the real estate upon which 'the sign is located as being
for rent, lease or sale.
Roofline - The top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is
higher, excluding any cupolas, pylons, chimneys or minor projections.
Roof Sign - Any sign erected over or on the roof of a building -
prohibited.
Rotating Sign - A sign in which the sign itself or any portion of the
sign moves in a revolving or similar manner. Such motion does not
refer to methods of changing copy.
Sign - Any device, structure, fixture or placard using graphics,
symbols, and /or written copy designed specifically for the purpose of
advertising or identifying any establishment, product, goods or
services (compare Sec. 1.02).
Sign, Area of - That area enclosed by one continuous line connecting
the extreme points or edges of a sign. The area shall be determined
using the largest sign area or silhouette visible at any one time from
any one point. This area does not include the main supporting.sign
structure but all other ornamental attachments, inner connecting
links, etc., which are not a part'of the main supports of the sign,
are to be included in determining sign area.
Snipe Sign - A temporary sign or poster affixed to a tree, fence,
etc.
Subdivision Identification Sign - A freestanding or wall sign
identifying a recognized subdivision, condominium complex, or
residential development.
Temporary Sign - A sign not constructed or intended for long -term use,
and not permanently attached to the ground, a building or structure.
Trailer Sign - Any sign that is attached to a frame with wheels and
designed in a manner that allows it to be moved easily - prohibited.
Under - Canopy Sign - A sign suspended beneath a canopy, ceiling, roof
or marquee.
Use - The principle purpose for which a building, lot, sign or
structure is intended, designed, occupied or maintained.
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292
Wall Sign - A sign attached parallel to and extending not more than 18
inches from the wall of a building.,. This definition includes painted,
individual letter and cabinet signs and signs on a mansard.
Window Sign - A sign installed inside a window and intended to be
viewed from the outside.
SECTION THREE
GENERAL PROVISIONS
It shall be hereby unlawful for any person to erect, place or maintain
a sign in the City of Little Rock except in accordance with the
provisions of this Ordinance.
SEC. 3.01 - SIGNS PROHIBITED
The following type signs are prohibited in all districts:
(a) Abandoned signs.
(b) Banners, pennants, festoons, searchlights (except as allowed in
Sec. 4.08d).
(c) Signs imitating or resembling official traffic or government
signs or signals.
(d) Snipe signs or signs attached to trees, telephone poles, fences,
public benches, or placed on public property or public
right -of -way.
(e) Signs placed on vehicles or trailers which are parked or located
for the primary purpose of displaying said sign (this does not
apply to signs or lettering on buses, taxis or vehicles operating
during the normal course of business.
(f) Trailer or temporary signs that do not meet the standards for
freestanding permanent signs.
(g) Roof signs, or any sign that is not mounted on a vertical
surface.
SEC. 3.02 - PERMITS REQUIRED
Unless otherwise provided by this Ordinance, all signs shall require
permits and payment of fees as described in Section 7 of this
Ordinance. No permit is required for the maintenance of a sign or for
a change of copy on painted, printed or manual changeable copy signs.
SEC. 3.03 - SIGNS NOT REQUIRING PERMITS
The following signs are exempted from permit requirements but must be
in conformance with all other requirlements of this Ordinance:
(a) Signs used by churches, synagogues or other civic organizations.
(b) Construction signs.
(c) Directional /information signs of two (2) square feet or less.
(d) Holiday or special event decorations.
(e) Nameplates.
(f) Political signs.
(g) Public signs or notices, or any sign relating to an emergency.
(h) Real estate signs.
(i) Incidental signs.
(j) Time and temperature signs.
SEC. 3.04 - MAINTENANCE
All signs shall be properly maintained. Exposed surfaces shall be
clean and painted if paint is required. Defective parts shall be
replaced. The administrator shall have the right under Sec. 7.09 to
order the repair or removal of any sign which is defective, damaged,
or substantially deteriorated or presents a public hazard, as defined
in Section 103.4 of the Standard Building Code.
5
SEC. 3.05 - LIGHTING 293
Unless otherwise specified by this Ordinance, all signs may be
illuminated. However, no sign regulated by this ordinance may
utilize:
(a) An exposed incandescent lamp with an external reflector and
without a sunscreen or comparable diffusion.
(b) Any exposed incandescent lamp in excess of 300 watts.
(c) Any revolving beacon light.
(d) Any device that allows oscillating, rotating or flashing lights.
SEC. 3.06 - CHANGEABLE COPY
Unless otherwise specified by this Ordinance, any sign herein allowed
may use manual changeable copy.
SECTION FOUR
REGULATION OF ON- PREMISE SIGNS BY ZONES
SEC. 4.01 - SIGN PERMITTED IN ALL ZONES
The following signs are permitted in all zones:
(a) All signs not requiring permits (Sec. 3.03).
(b) One (1) construction sign for each street frontage of a
construction project, not to exceed 32 square feet in sign area
in residential zones or 64 square feet in sign area in all other
zones. Such signs may be erected 10 days prior to beginning of
construction and shall be removed 10 days following completion of
construction.
(c) One (1) nonilluminated real estate sign per lot or premises, not
to exceed 32 square feet in sign area. Such signs must be
removed 14 days following sale, rental or lease.
(d) One (1) attached nameplate per occupancy, not to exceed one
square feet in sign area.
(e) One (1) political sign per lot, not to exceed eight (8) square
feet in sign area. Such signs shall not be erected more than 60
days prior to election or referendum. Political signs may be
placed only on private property and only with the permission of
the property owner.
(f) Two (2) directional /information sign per lot, not to exceed four
(4) square feet in sign area or six (6) feet in height.
SEC. 4.02 - SIGNS PERMITTED IN RESIDENTIAL ONE AND TWO FAMILY ZONES
The following signs are permitted in residential one and two family
zones:
(a) All signs as permitted in Sec. 4.01.
(b) One freestanding ground mounted sign is allowed per lot, not to
exceed one (1) square foot in area. The maximum height shall not
exceed six (6) feet.
(c) One (1) building mounted wall sign is allowed for each residence
not to exceed one (1) square foot in area.
(d) Illumination is allowed but not be greater than 50 footlamberts
or luminance.
(e) No commercial advertising is allowed. Only signs denoting the
name and address of occupants are allowed.
SEC. 4.03 - SIGNS PERMITTED IN MULTIFAMILY ZONES
(a) All signs as permitted in Sec. 4.01.
(b) One (1) subdivision identification sign per neighborhood,
subdivision or development, not to exceed 32 square feet.
(c) One (1) identification sign per apartment or condominium complex,
not to exceed 24 square feet in sign area.
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(dj For permitted nonresidential uses, including churches and 29 4
synagogues, one (1) freestanding sign not to exceed 24 square
feet in sign area, and one (1) wall sign not to exceed 32 square
feet in sign area.
(e) No commercial advertising is allowed. Only signs denoting the
name and address of the complex or name and address of occupants
are allowed.
(f) All allowed freestanding signs shall have a maximum height limit
of six (6) feet and shall have a setback of five (5) feet from
any public right -of -way, measured from the closest edge of the
sign.
(g) Illumination is allowed but not greater than 100 footlamberts of
luminance.
SEC. 4.04 - SIGNS PERMITTED IN INSTITUTIONAL AND OFFICE ZONES
(a) All signs as permitted in Sec. 4.01, 4.02 and 4.03.
(b) One (1) freestanding sign per premise, not to exceed two (2)
square feet in sign area for each linear foot of main street
frontage up to a maximum of 64 square feet. Such sign may not
exceed a height of six (6) feet.
In addition to the above freestanding sign, the owner may utilize
one of the following:
(1) One (1) wall sign per occupancy, not to exceed two (2)
square feet in sign area for each linear foot of that
occupany's building frontage up to a maximum of 48 square
feet. The maximum allowable square footage for a wall sign
is 48 square feet on buildings with facades less than 480
square feet. For buildings with facades greater than 480
square feet, the maximum allowable will be 10 percent of the
facade area.
(2) One (1) under canopy sign per occupany, not to exceed 12
square feet in sign area.
(3) Incidental signs not to exceed 24 square feet in aggregate
sign area per occupancy.
(c) Where a building is on a corner or has more than one main street
frontage, one (1) wall sign and one (1) additional freestanding
sign will be allowed on the additional frontage, not to exceed
the size of other wall and freestanding signs.
(d) Freestanding and under canopy signs shall have a setback from
property line and five (5) feet from any vehicular public
right -of -way, measured from the closest edge of the sign, and a
minimum clearance of 13 feet over any vehicular use area and nine
(9) feet over any pedestrian use area.
(e) Illumination is allowed but not greater'than 200 footlamberts of
luminance.
SEC. 4.05 - SIGNS PERMITTED IN INDUSTRIAL ZONES
(a) All signs as permitted in Sec. 4.01, 4.02, 4.03 and 4.04.
(b) One (1) freestanding sign per premise, not to exceed two (2)
square feet in sign area for each linear foot of main street
frontage up to a maximum of 72 square feet. Such signs shall not
exceed a height of 30 feet.
In addition to the above freestanding sign, the owner may utilize
one of the following:
(1) One (1) wall sign per occupany, not to exceed 1/3 square
feet in sign area for each linear foot of that occupancy's
building frontage up to a maximum of 48-square feet. The
maximum allowable square footage for a wall sign is 48
square feet on buildings with facades less than 480 square
feet. For buildings with facades greater than 480 square
feet, the maximum allowable will be 10 percent of the facade
area.
7
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• 295
(2) One (1) awning sign per occupancy not to exceed 33 percent
of the surface area of an awning, or one (1) marquee sign
not to exceed 1/3 square foot in sign area for each linear
foot of marquee front and side.
(3) One (1) under canopy sign per occupancy not to exceed 12
square feet in sign area.
(4) Incidental signs not to exceed 20 square feet in aggregate
sign area per occupancy.
(c) Where a building has more than one main street frontage, one (1)
additional wall sign and one (1) additional freestanding sign are
allowed on the additional frontage, not to exceed the size
limitations of other allowed wall and freestanding signs.
(d) All freestanding, projecting, awning, marquee and under canopy
signs shall have a minimum setback of five (5) feet from any
property line and vehicular public right -of -way, measured from
the closest edge of the sign, and a minimum clearance of 13 feet
over any vehicular use area and nine (9) feet over any pedestrian
use area.
(e) Illumination is allowed but not greater than 300 footlamberts of
luminance.
SEC. 4.06 - SIGNS PERMITTED IN COMMERCIAL ZONES
(a) All signs as permitted in Sec. 4.01, 4.02, 4.03, 4.04 and 4.05.
(b) One (1) freestanding sign per permise not to exceed two (2)
square feet in sign area of each linear foot of main street
frontage up to maximum of 160 square feet. Such signs shall not
exceed a height of 36 feet.
In addition to the above freestanding sign, the owner may utilize
one of the following:
(1) One (1) wall sign per occupancy not to exceed 1/3 square
(c) Where a building has more than one main street frontage, one (1)
additional wall sign and one (1) additional freestanding sign are
allowed on the additional frontage, not to exceed the size
limitations of other allowed wall and freestanding signs.
(d) All freestanding, projecting, awning, marquee and under canopy
signs shall have a minimum setback of five (5) feet from any
.property line and vehicular public right -of -way, measured from
the closest edge of the sign, and a minimum setback of 13 feet
over any vehicular use area and nine (9) feet over any pedestrian
use area.
(e) Illumination is allowed but not greater than 300 footlamberts of
luminance.
SEC. 4.07 - STANDARDS FOR OFF- PREMISE SIGNS
(a) Off - premise signs shall be allowed only in commercial and
industrial zones, as regulated by the Little Rock Zoning
Ordinance.
n
foot in sign area for each linear
foot of that occupancy's
building frontage up to a maximum
of 96 square feet. The
maximum allowable square footage
for a wall sign is 96•
square feet on buildings with facades
less than 960 square
feet. For buildings with facades
greater than 960 square
feet, the maximum allowable will
be 10 percent of the facade
area.
(2)
One (1) awning sign per occupancy
not to exceed 50 percent
of the surface area of the awning
or one (1) marquee sign
not to exceed 1/3 square foot in
sign area for each linear
foot of marquee front and side.
(3)
One (1) under canopy sign per occupancy,
not to exceed 15
square feet in sign area.
(4)
Incidental signs not to exceed 20
square feet in aggregate
sign area per occupancy.
(c) Where a building has more than one main street frontage, one (1)
additional wall sign and one (1) additional freestanding sign are
allowed on the additional frontage, not to exceed the size
limitations of other allowed wall and freestanding signs.
(d) All freestanding, projecting, awning, marquee and under canopy
signs shall have a minimum setback of five (5) feet from any
.property line and vehicular public right -of -way, measured from
the closest edge of the sign, and a minimum setback of 13 feet
over any vehicular use area and nine (9) feet over any pedestrian
use area.
(e) Illumination is allowed but not greater than 300 footlamberts of
luminance.
SEC. 4.07 - STANDARDS FOR OFF- PREMISE SIGNS
(a) Off - premise signs shall be allowed only in commercial and
industrial zones, as regulated by the Little Rock Zoning
Ordinance.
n
(b) They shall meet setback requirements of the Subdivision and 29 6
Zoning Ordinances, but in no case shall be located within
twenty -five feet of any open street.
(c) Shall be allowed only within 660 feet of an expressway or freeway
or within 300 feet of an arterial or major arterial as designated
by the Master Street Plan.
(d) Shall be at least 300 feet apart on an arterial or major arterial
and at least 500'feet apart on an expressway or freeway. The
distance between such structures shall be measured along the
nearest edge of the pavement.between points directly opposite the
signs and each side of the highway will be considered
separately.
(e) Shall not exceed 800 square feet in area (excluding structural
support and apron).
(f) Shall not exceed the maximum allowable height of the zoning
district in which located.
(g) Shall not be animated.
SEC. 4.08 - SPECIAL REGULATIONS AND ALLOWANCES FOR ALL SIGNS
(a) All wall signs must face required street frontage except in
complexes where a sign without street frontage would be the only
means of identification for a tenant.
(b) Sign heights for all ground mounted signs located on properties
immediately adjacent to and contiguous to an expressway or
freeway may be measured from the elevation of the centerline of
the traffic lanes (excluding frontage roads) adjacent to subject
property to the top of the sign structure. It shall be the
responsibility of the sign owner to submit all necessary
information when this approach is used. The maximum allowable
height in any zone and under any condition shall be 36 feet.
(c) In Commercial and Industrial zones where a lot has in excess of
150 linear feet main street frontage, one additional freestanding
sign will be allowed for each additional 150 linear feet of main
street frontage. Such signs shall be subject to the size and
height limitations of the first allowed freestanding sign and may
be placed no closer than 150 linear feet from any other
freestanding sign located on the same property.
(d) One (1) temporary special events sign and decoration per premise
as allowed by the Administrator for special events, grand
openings and /or holidays. Such signs and decorations may be
erected three (3) days prior to a grand opening, special event,
and /or holiday and shall be removed two (2) days following the
grand opening, special event and /or holiday. For grand openings,
such signs and decorations may be used for no more than seven (7)
days. All temporary signs and decorations shall be secured in a
method approved by the Administrator to ensure safety and
stability.
SECTION FIVE
NONCONFORMING SIGNS
SEC. 5.01 - DETERMINATION OF NONCONFORMITY
Existing signs which do not conform to the specific provisions of the
Ordinance may be eligible for the designation "nonconforming" provided
that:
(a) The sign was covered by a valid permit or variance or complied
with all applicable laws on the date of adoption of this
Ordinance.
SEC. 5.02 - LOSS OF NONCONFORMING STATUS
A nonconforming sign may lose this designation if:
(a) The sign is relocated or replaced.
(b) The structure or size of the sign is altered in any way except
towards compliance with this Ordinance. This does not refer to
change of copy or normal maintenance.
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SEC. 5.03 - MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF NONCONFORMING SIGNS 2 97
The nonconforming sign is subject to all requirements of this code
regarding safety, maintenance and repair. However, if the sign
suffers more than 50 percent appraised damage or deterioration, it
must be brought into conformance with this code or removed.
SEC. 5.04 - REPEALER
Section 1 of Ordinance No. 12,970 as amended by Section 10 of
Ordinance No. 13,365 and codified as Section 44 -11 of the Little Rock
Municipal Code is hereby repealed. Nonconforming signs in existence
prior to the passage of this ordinance shall be allowed to remain
subject to the provisions of this Chapter.
SEC. 5.05 - RETAINER
The provisions of Little Rock Municipal Code, Section 44 -7(f) are
specifically retained and incorporated into this ordinance and trailer
signs and temporary signs are specifically prohibited except as
allowed by this ordinance.
SECTION SIX
CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS
SEC. 6.01 - COMPLIANCE WITH BUILDING, ELECTRICAL AND TRAFFIC CODES
All signs shall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of
the Little Rock Building Code, the Little Rock Electrical Code and the
Little Rock Traffic Code.
SEC. 6.02 - ANCHORING
(a) No sign shall be suspended by nonrigid attachments that will
allow the sign to swing in a wind.
(b) All freestanding signs shall have self- supporting structures
erected on or permanently attached to concrete foundations, or
erected with pilings or other methods approved by the
administration.
SEC. 6.03 - WIND LOADS
(a) All signs shall be designed to withstand a wind of 60 miles per
hour.
SEC. 6.04 - ADDITIONAL CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS
(a) No signs shall be erected, constructed or maintained so as to
obstruct any fire escape, required exit, window or door opening
used as a means of egress.
(b) No sign shall be attached in any form, shape or manner which will
interfere with any opening required for ventilation, except that
signs may be erected in front of and may cover transom windows
when not in violation of the provisions of the Southern Building
or Fire Prevention Codes.
(c) Signs shall be located in such a way as to maintain horizontal
and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors in
accordance with National Electrical and /or Little Rock Electrical
Code specifications, depending on voltage concerned. However, in
no case shall a sign be installed closer than 24 inches
horizontally or vertically from any conductor or public utility
guy wire.
(d) Electrical connections to any sign must be made with overhead or
underground connections.
(e) Construction and placement of all signs must conform to the
applicable Traffic Codes of the City of Little Rock and in no way
restrict the safe and efficient movement of traffic.
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ADMINISTRATIONNANDVENFORCEMENT 298
SEC. 7.01 - RESPONSIBILITY
The responsibility of implementation and enforcement of this Ordinance
is vested in the Department of Public Works of the City of Little
Rock,-
SEC. 7.02 - APPLICATION FOR PERMITS
Application for a permit for the erection, alteration or relocation of
a sign shall be made to the Administrator upon a form provided by the
Administrator and shall include the following information:
(a) Name and address of the owner of the sign.
(b) Street address or location of the property on which the sign is
to be located, along with the name and address of the property
owner.
(c) The type of sign or sign structure as defined in this Ordinance.
(d) A site plan showing the proposed location of the sign along with
the locations and square footage areas of all existing signs on
the same premises.
(e) Specifications and scale drawings showing the materials, design,
dimensions, structural supports and electrical components of the
proposed sign.
SEC. 7 -03 - PERMIT FEES
All applications for permits filed with the Administrator shall be
accompanied by a payment of the initial permit fee for each sign
according to the following schedule:
Effective immediately, all existing, newly constructed, erected and /or
altered signs shall be permitted and tagged for which a fee shall be
paid in accordance with the permit schedule set out in this section.
Permits are to be issued for a period of ten (10) years, and all sign
owners are required to renew their sign permits every ten (10) years
prior to January 31 of the tenth year. Any sign not permitted within
the month of January of said tenth year shall be classified as
abandoned and removed.
All abandoned signs not removed by owner after due notice shall be
removed by the City of Little Rock, which upon completion shall file
and have a lien upon real estate for the cost of removing said
sign(s).
Accompanying each application for a sign permit shall be a detailed
drawing or drawings, all of which are to be to scale and legible.
All existing structures and proposed structures along with proposed
sign locations will be indicated. Building or structure elevation
drawings shall be submitted when applications are for building mounted
signs
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Accompanying each application for a sign permit for an existing sign
shall be:
1. A completed application form stating all necessary facts
concerning each sign, signed by the owner, certifying thereto;
2. Photographs of each sign.
Sign permit and renewal fee schedule:
1. All off - premise signs $100.00
2. All on- premise signs as follows:
a.
Ground mounted signs
$
40.00
b.
Projecting
$
35.00
•c.
Wall signs (including marquee)
$
30.00
3. All
on /off - premise signs alteration fees:
a.
Ground mounted signs:
1. Up to 258
$
10.00
2. 258 to 508
$
20.00
3. 508 to 758
$
30.00
4. Over 758
$
40.00
b. Projecting signs:
1. Up to 258 $ 15.00
2. 258 to 758 $ 25.00
3. Over 758 $ 35.00
C. Wall signs (marquee signs included):
1. Up to 758 $ 20.00
2. Over 758 $ 30.00
SEC. 7.04 - PERMIT CONDITIONS, REFUNDS AND PENALTIES
If a permit is denied, the permit fee will be refunded to the
applicant.
If any sign is installed or placed on any property prior to receipt of
a permit, the specified permit fee shall be doubled. However, payment
of the doubled fee shall not relieve any person of any other
requirements or penalties prescribed in this Ordinance.
SEC. 7.05 - INSPECTION UPON COMPLETION
Any person installing, altering or relocating a sign for which a
permit has been issued shall notify the Administrator upon completion
of the work. The Administrator may require a final inspection,
including an electrical inspection and inspection of footings on
freestanding signs.
The administrator may require in writing upon issuance of a permit
that he be notified for inspection prior to the installation of
certain signs.
SEC. 7.06 - 'ADMINISTRATION
At the request of either the Administrator or the applicant, the
Director of Public Works shall review the application for a sign
permit. The Director shall interpret the application of the
provisions of this ordinance in such a way as to carry out its stated
purpose and intent. The Director may review requests for minimal
deviations from the literal provisions of this Ordinance in cases
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where strict enforcement of the Ordinance would cause undue hardship
to the individual application under consideration and allow such
deviation only when it is demonstrated that such action . will be in
keeping with the spirit and intent of this Ordinance. In no event
shall the Director authorize a deviation of greater than 15 per cent
of the requirements of this Ordinance,. nor shall the Director permit
as a deviation any use in a district that is not permitted in this
Ordinance, nor shall the Director make any changes in this Ordinance.
SEC. 707 - SIGN APPEAL BOARD
Section 1 of Ordinance No. 12,970 codified as Section 44 -10 of the
Little Rock Municipal Code is hereby repealed. A Sign Appeal Board is
hereby established. The word board in this chapter shall be construed
to mean Sign Appeal Board.
The Board shall consist of three members who are appointed by the City
Manager and approved by the City Board of Directors. The term of
office of the members of the Board shall be two (2) years. The Board
shall elect its own chairman and shall adopt rules for the conduct of
business. The Board shall keep a public record of all findings and
decisions. Any member of the Board having a direct or indirect
pecuniary interest in the subject matter of, or affected by, a
decision of the Board shall be disqualified from voting or
participating in the discussion of that matter. The Board shall meet
on call of the Director at a mutually convenient time and each meeting
shall be public with public notice given as required by law.
SEC. 7.08 - JURISDICTION
Any person or persons jointly or severely aggrieved by the decision of
the Director may appeal to the Sign Appeal Board. The Board may
reverse, affirm or modify the decision of the Director or may remand
the case for further consideration. In no case may the Sign Appeal
Board allow a variance of greater than 15 percent from the
requirements of this ordinance nor shall the Board permit as a
variance any use in a district that is not permitted by this
Ordinance.
The. Board shall only approve a variance in instances where strict
enforcement of this Ordinance would cause undue hardship due to
circumstances unique to the individual property under consideration
and when it is demonstrated that such action will be in keeping with
the spirit and intent of the provisions of this, Ordinance.
The concurring vote of two members of the Board shall be necessary for
the Board to take-any action.
Any person aggrieved by a decision of the Board may appeal to a court
of proper jurisdiction within thirty days of the decision of the
Board.
SEC. 7.09 - VIOLATIONS
When, in the opinion of the Administrator, a violation of the code
exists, the Administrator shall issue a written order to the alleged
violator. The order shall specify those sections of the code of which
the individual may be in violation and shall state that the individual
has 10 days from the date of the order in which to correct the alleged
violation or to appeal to the Sign Appeal Board.
If, upon inspection, the Administrator finds that a sign is abandoned
or structurally, materially or electrically defective, or in any way
endangers the public, the Administrator shall issue a written order to
the. owner of the sign and occupant of the premises stating the nature
of the violation and requiring them to repair or remove the sign
within 10 days of the date of the order.
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In cases of emergency, the Administrator may cause the immediate
removal of a dangerous or defective sign without notice. Signs
removed in this manner must present a hazard to the public safety as
defined in Section 103.4 of the Standard Building Code.
SEC. 7.10 - PENALTIES
Any person or persons violating this Ordinance shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by the payment of a
fine of not more than $500.00. Where the prohibition or unlawful act
is in its nature continuous in respect to time, the fine or penalty
for allowing the continuance thereof in violation of this Ordinance
shall not exceed $250.00 for each day that the same may be unlawfully
continued.
SECTION EIGHT
CONFLICT, SEVERABILITY AND GENERAL REPEALER
SEC. 8.01 - CONFLICT
If any portion of this code is found to be in conflict with any other
provision of any zoning, building, fire, safety, or health ordinance
of the City code, the provision which establishes the higher standard
shall prevail.
SEC. 8.02 - SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code or
its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid by the
decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this
code, or the application of the provision to other persons or
circumstances is in effect and shall remain in full force and effect.
SEC. 8.03 - GENERAL REPEALER
All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions
of this ordinance are hereby expressly repealed.
SEC. 8.04 - This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect beginning
thirty (30) days from and after its passage.
PASSED: June 1, 1982
EFFECTIVE DATE: July 1, 1982
ATTEST 14 � � ,,,
Assistant Cit Clerk
APPROVED:4 i-0440e.('
Mayor
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