The reasonable and adequate display of signs is allowed under this title. There is a substantial need to regulate the display of signs through the adoption of this title to address the following concerns:the number, size, design characteristics, and locations of signs in the City directly affect the public health, safety, and welfare; and many signs are distracting and dangerous to motorists and pedestrians, are confusing to the public, are poorly located, and substantially detract from the beauty and appearance of the City. The purposes and intent for the enactment of this title are:to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the people in Baltimore City and to implement the policies and objectives of the City of Baltimore through the enactment of a comprehensive set of regulations governing signs in the City of Baltimore; to regulate the erection and placement of signs within the City of Baltimore in order to provide safe operating conditions for pedestrian and vehicular traffic without unnecessary and unsafe distractions to drivers or pedestrians; to maintain an aesthetically attractive city in which specific types of signs are allowed in zoning districts consistent with the uses, intent, and aesthetic characteristics of those districts; to establish comprehensive sign regulations that balance legitimate business and development needs with a safe and aesthetically attractive environment for residents, workers, and visitors to the City of Baltimore; to provide fair and reasonable opportunities for the identification of businesses located within the City of Baltimore; to provide for the identification of the availability of products, goods or services of businesses located within the City of Baltimore and to promote the economic vitality of these businesses; to ensure the protection of free speech rights under the State and United States Constitutions within the City of Baltimore and in no event place restrictions that apply to any given sign dependent entirely on the communicative content of the sign; to allow signs that are, safe, unobtrusive, and incidental to the principal use of the respective lots on which they are located, subject to the substantive requirements of this title; and to prohibit all signs not expressly authorized by this title, to provide for the maintenance of signs, and to provide for the enforcement of the provisions of this title. Ord.18-216

In this title, the following terms have the meanings indicated. “A-frame sign” means a sign, ordinarily in the shape of the letter “A”, or some variation of it, that is displayed on the ground, not permanently attached, and usually 2-sided. Above ground floor.“Above ground floor” means the occupiable space in a building that is above the ground floor. “Above ground floor” does not include:anything determined to be the ground floor as defined in this section; any exterior or interior spaces created from or defined by the structural or architectural items described in <cite data-path="|32|§15-301|(b)">§ 15-301(b) of this article</cite>; interior loft space or mezzanine space within the volume of the ground floor; or anything otherwise described in <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite> as not above ground floor. “Attention-getting device” means any pennant, flag, feather flag, festoon, spinner, streamer, searchlight, balloon, inflatable sign, strobe light, or similar device or ornamentation designed for the purpose of attracting attention. “Awning or canopy sign” means a sign that is printed on, or is attached above, on, or under the outer edge of, an awning, canopy or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover over a door, entrance, window, or outdoor service area. “Banner Sign” means a sign that:is printed or displayed on cloth or other flexible material; is attached to a frame, a pole or other structure on a lot; is mounted flat against the wall of a structure or projects from a structure; and is mounted and attached to a structure that is meant to be durable and permanent. A banner sign may be either a freestanding banner sign, a projecting banner sign, or a wall mounted banner sign. For purposes of this definition:“freestanding banner sign” means any banner sign, including a flag, that is attached by only one side to a pole, frame, or any structure and hanging freely so that it can flutter or move in the wind; “projecting banner sign” means any banner sign that is mounted non-parallel to a building wall or any other surface of a structure and is attached on multiple sides to a rigid frame that is attached to a structure; and “wall mounted banner sign” means a banner sign that is attached to a building wall and projects no more than 8 inches from the wall, with the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the face of the wall. “Banner sign” does not include any provisional fence sign or attention-getting device. See “Awning or canopy sign”. “Changeable copy sign” means a permanent sign that contains a part that allows copy to be changed manually “Electronic sign” means a sign or portion of a sign that uses changing light to form a message or messages in text, digital graphics, or digital animation, where the sequence of messages and the rate of change is electronically programmed and can be modified by electronic processes. “Electronic sign” includes an electronic display screen. For purposes of this definition, “electronic display screen”:means the portion of an electronic sign that displays digital art or an electronic graphic, image, or video, which may or may not include text; and includes any television screen, plasma screen, digital screen, flat screen, LED screen, video boards holographic display, projected video sign, and exterior wall integrated technology. See “Banner sign”. “Freestanding sign” means a sign that:is made of durable material that is not cloth or other flexible material; and is placed on or supported by the ground, independent of the principal structure on the lot. “Freestanding sign” does not include a banner sign. A freestanding sign may be either a freestanding monument sign, a freestanding pole sign, or a freestanding pylon sign. For purposes of this definition:“Freestanding monument sign” means any freestanding sign that is placed directly on the ground or supported by a decorative base, including a post, pole, or other structure, that is an integral part of the sign design. “Freestanding pole sign” means any freestanding sign that is erected and maintained on 1 or more freestanding poles, uprights, or braces directly inserted into the ground and is not attached to any other structure. “Freestanding pylon sign” means any freestanding sign that is supported by a support structure that is a solid-appearing base constructed of a permanent material, such as concrete block, brick, or metal. The ground support does not include any post, pole, or other structure. “Ground floor” means the first level of occupiable space of a building. Exclusions. “Ground floor” does not include:anything determined to be above ground floor, as defined in this section; basement or sub-basement spaces; or anything otherwise described in <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite> as not ground floor. See “Freestanding sign”. “Moving sign” means a sign that, in whole or in part, rotates, elevates, or in any way alters position or geometry. “Moving sign” does not include an analog clock. “Nonconforming sign” means a sign that was lawfully erected and maintained under a previous version of this Code but does not now conform to the requirements of this Code. “Open-structural framework sign” means a sign that is attached to an expressed or projecting structural member of a building below the roofline of any roof surface of any section of the building. The sign:may be attached above, on, or under the structural member; but may not be located on a roof or above the roofline of any roof surface of any section of the building. “Painted/mural sign” means a sign applied directly to the wall of a building or other permanent structure element on a lot through paint, glue, or other medium application without the use of fasteners, frames, or other support structures. For the purposes of this definition:a painted/mural sign lies on the same plane of the structure to which it is applied, unless otherwise specified in this title; and a structure shall include building walls, roofs, architectural elements, fences, driveways, parking lots, or other paved areas, and structural or architectural items described in <cite data-path="|32|§15-301|(b)">§ 15-301(b) of this article</cite>. A “painted/mural sign” does not include:wall signs; awning or canopy signs; projecting signs; window signs; or roof signs. See “Freestanding sign”. See “Banner sign”. “Portable sign” means a sign whose principal supporting structure is intended, by design and construction, to rest on the ground for support and may be easily moved or relocated. “Portable sign” includes a sign mounted on a trailer, wheeled carrier, or other non-motorized mobile structure, with wheels or with wheels removed. “Portable sign” does not include an A-frame sign, even if the A-frame sign is designed to be easily moved. See “Banner sign”. “Projecting sign” means a sign that:is made of a durable material that is not cloth or other flexible material; is attached to a building or other structure; and extends beyond the surface of the building or structure to which it is attached. “Projecting sign” includes:any sign that is non-parallel to the face of the wall of a structure; and any sign that:is in a plane parallel to the face of the wall of a structure; and projects more than 12 inches from that wall. “Projecting sign” does not include any:banner sign; or roof sign. “Provisional fence sign” means a sign placed on any fence that is constructed or installed primarily for the purposes of making a safety perimeter around a construction site. “Roof sign” means a sign that:is erected, constructed, or maintained on any roof surface, on any permitted projection on a roof, or has 30% or more of the sign face above any parapet of a building; and has its principal support attached to the roof structure or behind the parapet of a building. “Wall sign” means a sign:that is made of a durable material that is not cloth or other flexible material; that is mounted flat against or painted on the wall of a structure; that projects no more than 12 inches from the wall, with the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the face of the wall; and whose sign face extends less than 30% beyond the roof line or parapet of a building. “Wall sign” does not include any:banner sign; painted/mural sign; roof sign; or window sign. See “Banner sign”. “Window sign” means a sign that:is intended for viewing from the exterior of a building; and is:attached to, placed on, or printed on the interior or exterior of a window of the building; attached to, placed on, or printed on a door of the building; or displayed within 12 inches of a window of the building. “Window sign” does not include a painted/mural sign, as defined in this section. Ord.18-216 Ord. 20-350 Ord. 22-181

No sign may be erected, relocated, or structurally altered unless in accordance with this Code. All signs are subject to the location, height, quantity, and dimensional requirements of Table 17- 201: Sign Regulations and as otherwise stated in this title. A sign is allowed within a zoning district only if and to the extent that:Table 17-201: Sign Regulations expressly lists that sign type as allowed within that zoning district; and the sign complies with all other requirements of this title applicable to that sign type. Non-obscene wording and non-obscene graphics on table umbrellas are not governed by this title. Ord.18-216

All signs must also comply with the placement restrictions of the Baltimore City <cite data-path="|building-codes|II">Building Code</cite>, Appendix H {“Signs”}. No sign mounted on the exterior or interior of a building may cover any part of a window, door, or prominent architectural feature unless otherwise expressly allowed in <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite>. Any painted/mural sign that seeks to cover any window, door, or prominent architectural feature must have design review approval. Any painted/mural sign that seeks to cover any window or portion of a window must comply with the transparency requirements described in <cite data-path="|32|§17-416">§ 17-416 {“Window signs”} of this title</cite>. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

In this section, “commercial speech” means:speech that proposes a commercial transaction; or expression related solely to the economic interests of the speaker and its audience. To avoid favoring commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring the expression of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message, noncommercial speech is allowed wherever commercial speech is allowed under this Code. Ord.18-216

The structural design and construction of signs, including their supports, must comply with the applicable requirements of the <cite data-path="|building-codes">City Building, Fire, and Related Codes Article</cite>. Supports and braces must be an integral part of the sign design. Supports and braces must be hidden from public view to the extent technically feasible, unless they are intended as a decorative part of the sign design. All letters, figures, characters, or representations in cut-out or irregular form, maintained in conjunction with, attached to, or superimposed on any sign must be safely and securely built or attached to the sign structure. Unless otherwise provided in this title, all signs, including electronic signs, are subject to the illumination requirements of this subsection. Goose-neck fixtures and indirect spotlights are allowed on awning signs, canopy signs, freestanding signs, projecting signs, and wall signs. All exterior lighting intended to illuminate a sign must concentrate the illumination on the area of the sign that minimizes glare on the street or adjacent property. All sign illumination must be designed, located, shielded, and directed to minimize:casting glare or direct light on adjacent publicly dedicated roadways and surrounding properties; and distraction of motorists or pedestrians in the public right-of-way. Freestanding signs, projecting signs, roof signs, wall signs, and window signs may be internally illuminated. For the purposes of this title, an indirectly illuminated sign is a sign illuminated with a light that is directed primarily toward the sign and shielded to minimize rays from the light being visible anywhere other than on the lot where the sign is located. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

All signs and the premises surrounding them must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, free and clear of all noxious substances, rubbish, and weeds. All unused sign hardware or wiring must be removed. The following activities are allowed with proper permits as long as there is no increase in sign dimensions or change in structure:changing the copy or message on an existing changeable copy sign, whether illuminated or non-illuminated; painting, repainting, cleaning, changing allowed items of information, or other normal maintenance and repair of a sign, including replacement of lights and sign face, but not involving structural changes or the change in the size of the sign; refacing an existing sign, unless located in an Historical and Architectural Preservation District or listed on a Landmark List: Exteriors or a Special List: Exteriors, in which case the proposed activity must be referred to the Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation in accordance with its review process; replacement of the digital screen on an electronic sign; replacement of broken or physically damaged sign supports; and modifications necessary to improve the safety of existing signs. If the Building Official finds that any sign or other structure defined in this title is unsafe or insecure, or has been constructed, erected or is being maintained in violation of this title, the Building Official must give written notice to the sign permit holder, if applicable, and the property owner. If the sign permit holder or the property owner fails to cure the violation, the sign may be removed by the City at the expense of the sign permit holder or the property owner. The City may cause any sign or other structure defined in this title that is an immediate peril to individuals or property to be removed summarily and without notice. Ord.18-216

Except for roof signs, any lot with more than 1 principal building on that lot may have signage on each building that complies with the rules of the respective sign type in this title, Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Areas of Signs. Unless otherwise provided in this title, the aggregate maximum area of signage allowed for each building may not be combined or split. Freestanding monument signs may be installed on lots adjacent to and contiguous with residential developments of 20 units or more if the units are in a single building or part of a major subdivision or redevelopment of contiguous and adjoining lots. The aggregate maximum sign area per sign type, as calculated under <cite data-path="|32|§17-306">§ 17-306 of this title</cite>, may be split into multiple signs and dispersed on a single lot for the following sign types, zoning districts, and uses:freestanding monument signs and freestanding pylon signs for approved drive-through facilities in the C-2, C-3, C-4, and C-5 Zoning Districts; freestanding monument signs and freestanding pylon signs for uses in the C-2, C-3, C-4, and C-5 zoning districts where the lot is 10,000 square feet or greater or has more than one principal building on a lot; freestanding monument signs, freestanding pylons signs, and wall signs where there is more than 1 principal building on a lot in the EC-1, EC-2, OS, H, OIC, and BSC zoning districts. This option must be documented in a signage package; wall signs above ground floor in the C-1, C-1-E, and C-2 zoning districts may be split into no more than 4 signs; wall signs above ground floor in the C-3, C-4, C-5, TOD-4, BSC, H, I-1, I-2, and PC Zoning Districts; and the maximum area of a sign cannot be varied to create more sign area and then split into multiple signs nor can a sign that results from the split be later replaced with a larger sign; and multi-family dwellings of 50 units or more in the R-8, R-9, R-10, or OR-2 zoning districts that have ground floor commercial uses and are subject to § 14-327 {“Multi-family dwellings - Accessory non-residential uses.”}, may follow projecting sign and wall sign requirements for the C-1 zoning district as provided for in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs. If sign splitting is used, a 15% automatic total maximum area increase may be applied to the aggregate base maximum area permitted before the sign splitting is used, subject to the following:the maximum sign area automatic increase under this subsection may not be further increased by the Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals; and all signs under this subsection must be permitted at the same time on the same permit and the increase documented on the permit. Single-story, single-tenant buildings that are 15,000 square feet or greater in the C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, and PC zoning districts may use the above ground floor signage allotment for wall signs in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations if the sign type distinguishes the allotment between ground floor and above ground floor. Ground floor tenants 15,000 square feet or greater in a multi-tenant building with direct street access in the C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, and PC zoning districts may use the above ground floor signage allotment for wall signs in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations if the sign type distinguishes the allotment between ground floor and above ground floor, subject to the following:applicable only to uses outlined in the commercial and institutional use categories of the underlying zoning district; for the application of this title, Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Areas of Signs for buildings whose main entrance does not front a right-of-way (not including an un-named alley or named alley), the building frontage is designated as the elevation that has the main entrance to the building or tenant; and the building frontage or tenant frontage must be 40 feet wide or greater. The following rules apply for signage within planned unit developments:Unless otherwise specified in an individual planned unit development ordinance, all existing planned unit developments established or that have had a major change after June 5, 2017 must follow the rules specified in this title, Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Areas of Signs. Any designated business planned unit development established prior to June 5, 2017 that has an underlying residential zoning and that does not expressly address signage must follow the rules specified for the C-2 zoning district in this title, Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Areas of Signs Subject to Title 17, Subtitle 5 of <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite>, Title 15 of <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite>, and any other applicable portions of this Code, an Area of Special Signage Control may be incorporated in the ordinance of a new planned unit development. This paragraph applies only to new planned unit developments or existing planned unit developments that are being repealed and replaced. This paragraph does not apply to existing planned unit developments. For a planned unit development that does not have an Area of Special Signage Control, either incorporated within the planned unit development ordinance or separately, the aggregate of the maximum allowable freestanding monument and pylon signage may be split among all buildings on that lot, not to exceed the aggregate area allowed by adding the maximum allowable area of each sign by the quantity of signs allowed by Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Areas of Signs, unless otherwise provided within this title. This option must be documented in a signage package within the planned unit development ordinance. For existing planned unit development where there is a signage package, the signage package may be amended as a minor change. If there is a conflict between an Area of Special Sign Control and a planned unit development ordinance, the planned unit development ordinance prevails. If using the sign splitting option, the Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals may not increase the aggregate area of a sign. Ord. 22-181

Sign area is measured as provided in §§ 17-302 through 17-306 of this subtitle. Sign height is measured as provided in <cite data-path="|32|§17-307">§ 17-307 of this subtitle</cite>. Ord.18-216

For signs on a background, the entire area of the framework or background of the sign is calculated as sign area, including any material or color forming the sign face or background used to differentiate the sign from the structure against which it is placed. Sign area does not include any framework or bracing, unless the framework or bracing is part of the message or sign face. For signs consisting of freestanding letters or logos, the sign area is calculated as the total area of each square, circle, rectangle, triangle, or combination of these, that encompasses each individual letter or logo. Sign area does not include any supporting framework or bracing, unless the framework or bracing is part of the message or sign face. Window signs printed on a transparent film and affixed to a windowpane are calculated by their individual letters or logos, as long as the portion of the transparent film around the perimeter of the individual letters or logos maintains the transparency of the window. A single design in the same plane or elevation shall be considered 1 sign. For painted/mural signs that include both signage and art in a single design, the signage area shall be calculated as the combined area of the signage portion or portions, provided that the signage is in the same plane or elevation. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Necessary supports or uprights on which the sign is placed are not included in the computation. Ord.18-216

If a sign has 2 or more faces, the area of all faces is included in determining the area of the sign, except as specified in subsection (b) of this section. If 2 faces are placed back to back and are nowhere more than 2 feet apart (excluding necessary supports or uprights), the area of the sign is taken as:the area of 1 face, if the 2 faces are of equal area; and. the area of the larger face, if the 2 faces are of unequal area. Ord.18-216

The sign area of a three-dimensional, free-form, or sculptural (non-planar) sign is calculated as 50% of the sum of the area of the 4 vertical sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign. Ord.18-216

The total cumulative square feet of all signs on a lot may not exceed the amounts specified in Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs, except as allowed in an approved Signage Plan for an Area of Special Signage Control, where those maximums may be exceeded to the extent provided by that Table. Ord.18-216

The height of a sign is determined by measuring the vertical distance from the uppermost point used to measure the area of a sign to the ground immediately below that point or to the level of the upper surface of the nearest curb of a street or alley, whichever measurement allows the greater elevation of the sign. The width of a sign is determined by measuring the horizontal distance from the outermost points of either edge of the sign perpendicular to the ground plane. Poles, uprights, braces, and other support structures must be contained within the maximum height. For freestanding pole signs, the minimum pole height is determined by measuring the vertical distance from the lowest point of where the sign’s message or graphics begins to the ground immediately below that point or to the level of the upper surface of the nearest curb of a street or alley, whichever measurement allows the greater elevation of the sign. Ord.18-216

For any building subject to this title, the building frontage shall be identified and calculated based on the building elevation that is parallel to and immediately adjacent to the right-of-way (excluding un-named or named alleys) or the parking lot drive aisle on which the main entrance fronts. For ground floor tenants with direct street access, tenant frontage shall be calculated per linear foot of exterior facing frontage for that tenant. Ord. 22-181

Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section or as otherwise provided in <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite>:the “maximum area per sign” specified in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations is the maximum area allowed for each sign per sign type allowed; the “maximum quantity” specified in Table 17- 201: Sign Regulations is the total number of signs per sign type allowed; and the aggregate maximum sign area per sign type is calculated by multiplying the “maximum area per sign” by the ‘maximum quantity” of that sign type as specified in Table 17-201: sign regulations. Any sign that is required by the City Building, Fire, and Related Codes and that is 2 square feet or less does not count towards:the allowable maximum quantity specified in Table 17- 201: Sign Regulations: the maximum area per sign specified in Table 17- 201: Sign Regulations; or the maximum cumulative area of signage specified in Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs. Any sign over 2 square feet or any sign described in paragraph (1) of this subsection is subject to the applicable rules of this title, Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Areas of Signs. Ord. 22-181

A-frame signs are allowed only:for non-residential uses; and in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. An A-frame sign:may only be placed:on the same property as the non-residential use to which it relates, within 30 feet of that use’s primary entrance; or on the right-of-way in front of that property; and may not:interfere with pedestrian traffic; or violate standards of accessibility as required by the ADA or other accessibility codes. An A-frame sign may only be placed outdoors between hours of operation. The sign must be stored indoors at all other times. An A-frame sign may not be placed outdoors during high-wind or heavy-rain conditions. The sign must be stored indoors during these conditions. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

No person may place any sign, poster, placard, device, graphic display, or other item that advertises alcoholic beverages or cigarettes in any publicly visible location, including any outdoor billboard, side of a building, or freestanding sign. In this subsection, “licensed premises” means:as to alcoholic beverage signs, a premises that operates under an alcoholic beverages license or permit issued under the State Alcoholic Beverages Article; and as to the cigarette signs, a premises that operates under a cigarette business license issued under Title 16 of the State Business Regulation Article. This section does not apply to the placement of signs:inside a licensed premises; in conjunction with a temporary or 1-day alcoholic beverages license granted by the Board of License Commissioners; in an Area of Special Signage Control advertising for a business located within the Area of Special Signage Control that holds a manufacturer’s license issued under <cite data-doc="Md. Code" data-path="gab">Title 2, Subtitle 2 of the Alcoholic Beverages Article of the Maryland Code</cite>; or on property owned, leased, or operated by the Maryland Stadium Authority. This section does not apply to any window or exterior wall sign of a licensed premises that meets all of the following criteria:the sign is intended to identify the licensed premises, by containing its name, slogan, or logo; the sign covers no more than 15% of the window or exterior wall area on which it is displayed; and the licensed premises has no other window or exterior wall sign along the same street frontage. For purposes of this paragraph (3):a “window” comprises all the glass panes within the main frame of the window area; and the maximum 15% coverage is calculated based on the total area within the external window frame. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any billboard that advertises alcoholic beverages shall be located at least 500 linear feet from established and conspicuously identified elementary or secondary schools, places of worship, or public playgrounds. Ord.18-216

The erection, placement, or construction of attention-getting devices is prohibited in the R-1-A through R-10, R-MU, OR-1, OR-2, and EC-1 Zoning Districts. The City may not issue permits for these signs or devices in these zoning districts. Attention-getting devices are subject to the following regulations. Attention-getting devices may not be erected or maintained in any location or in any manner that could endanger the public safety, interfere with or obstruct pedestrian or vehicular travel, or create a traffic safety problem. Attention-getting devices may not be erected or maintained within any public right-of-way. As a condition of a building permit, requirements may be imposed on the material, manner of construction, and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to assure the safety and convenience of the public. No inflatable promotional device may exceed 15 feet in height or the height of the of the principal building to which it relates, whichever is lower. No inflatable promotional device may be mounted on the roof of a structure. Ord.18-216

Awning or canopy signs and open-structural framework signs are allowed:in a residential use category, only on multi-family dwellings with 20 or more units, dormitories with 20 or more rooms, and residential-care facilities with 17 or more residents; in all other use categories, on all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; and in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. Awnings and canopies must maintain at least 8 feet of vertical clearance from the ground. Awnings and canopies must be located at least 1 foot from the curb line. Signs placed underneath an awning or canopy or structural framework must maintain at least 8 feet vertical clearance from the ground. Signs attached to the awning, canopy, or open-structural framework may not project more than 6 inches beyond the awning, canopy, or open-structural framework. Signs may not be mounted on or extend beyond any roof surface. Signs may not be wider than 80% of the width of the awning or canopy. Signs may not be any taller than 2 feet. No messages or graphics printed on the top surface of any awning or canopy may exceed 25% of that top surface area. Awnings and canopies must be constructed out of canvas, canvas-like material, fabric, or metal. Back-lit box and plastic awnings and canopies are prohibited. Awnings, canopies, and open-structural frameworks must be securely attached to and supported by a building. All frames and supports must be made of metal or similar rigid material. Frames and supports may not be made of wood or plastics. Signs mounted underneath awnings, canopies, and open-structural frameworks must be securely fixed with metal supports. Awning or canopy signs and open-structural framework signs must be compatible in material and construction to the style and character of the building. When feasible, awning or canopy signs and open-structural framework signs should be generally aligned with others nearby to maintain a sense of visual continuity. Awning or canopy signs must be tailored to the opening of the building and positioned so that distinctive architectural features remain visible. Awning or Canopy signage may be applied to existing canopy structure on buildings in local historic districts and local landmarks that were previously used for signage as approved by the Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation. Any electronic signage on existing canopies are subject to all applicable rules of <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite>, Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Banner signs are allowed: in a residential use category, only for multi-family dwellings with 20 or more units and dormitories with 20 or more rooms; in all other use categories, for all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Code, the erection, conversion, placement, or construction of new billboards, static or digital, is prohibited. No billboard may have audio speakers or any audio component. In this section, “digital billboard” means any billboard that is also an electronic sign. New billboards are only allowed in an Area of Special Signage Control. In addition:new non-digital billboards may only be located in a C-1, C-1-E, C-1-VC, C-5-DC, or PC Zoning District and may not exceed 50 square feet; and new digital billboards are subject to the following requirements:they may only be located in a C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, TOD-4, or PC Zoning District; digital animation, streaming video, or images that move or give the appearance of movement are only allowed as described in the approved Signage Plan; and. all digital billboards must have ambient light monitors that automatically adjust the brightness level of the billboard based on ambient light conditions. Billboards may only be integrated into any other sign type listed in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations for that zoning district. An existing non-digital billboard may be converted to a digital billboard only if:it is accompanied by documentation that at least 3 existing billboard faces in the City have been removed for each new digital billboard face to be placed or erected; each message or image displayed on the digital billboard must be static or follow standards for electronic signs; digital animation, streaming video, or images that move or give the appearance of movement are prohibited; the digital billboard has ambient light monitors that automatically adjust the brightness level of the billboard based on ambient light conditions; the billboard does not have audio speakers or any audio component; the new digital billboard is not relocated by more than 15 feet in any direction from its original location; each billboard being removed is a minimum of 100 square feet; and the applicant submits proof of current billboard tax payment at the time of application for conversion. The Zoning Administrator shall maintain an account of removals of existing printed billboards and shall credit the account of the owner of a printed billboard for each printed billboard that is removed. In order to document the removal of a printed billboard, the owner shall submit to the Zoning Administrator a copy of the conversion permit for the removal of the billboard and photographs documenting the removal. A printed billboard removal credit may be reserved and used by the original owner of the credit within 5 years after the removal of the printed billboard. An existing billboard may not be converted to a digital billboard if:it is attached to a building that is 35 feet or less in height; it is a pole mounted billboard that is 35 feet or less in height; or it is located in or within 250 feet of a residential district. Ord.18-216

Electronic signs are allowed:in Residential Zoning Districts R-1A through R-10 for all uses allowed in the Institutional use category on lots with a minimum of 30 feet of building frontage and 7,500 square feet of lot area. in non-residential zoning districts:in a residential use category, only for multi-family dwellings with 50 or more units; and in all other use categories, for all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; and in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. Category I: No larger than15 square feet. Category II: No larger than 50 square feet. Category III: No larger than 750 square feet. Category IV: No larger than 5,000 square feet. Category V: No larger than 10,500 square feet. Text and digital graphics must be static or have a minimum dwell time of 8 seconds. Digital animation and videos must have a maximum loop time of 1 minute. The dwell time for any previously approved electronic sign may be modified to 8 seconds without the need for any further approval. Electronic signs and electronic sign components may only be in the form of or integrated into sign types listed in this subtitle and Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. A standalone electronic sign must conform to:the requirements and maximum sign area for electronic signs, as provided in this subtitle and Table 17-201: Sign Regulations; and all other requirements for non-electronic sign types, as provided in this title, in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and in Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs, unless otherwise specified by this title or these tables. Where electronic signs are allowed:an electronic sign component may be integrated into a non-electronic sign; the combined sign area of an electronic sign component and another sign type may not exceed the maximum sign area for the other sign type; and the electronic sign component may not exceed 25% of the maximum sign area for the other sign type. Category I electronic signs are subject to the following requirements:the electronic component may not exceed:15 square feet in area; plus the percentage deviation allowed by Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and specified in an approved Signage Plan; only 1 electronic sign is allowed per lot; each message displayed on an electronic sign is limited to text only, and that text must be static or depicted for at least 10 seconds; and electronic signs may only be in the form of or integrated into a freestanding sign or wall sign type. Category II electronic signs are subject to the following requirements:the electronic component may not exceed:50 square feet in area; plus the percentage deviation allowed by Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and specified in an approved Signage Plan; no more than 2 electronic signs are allowed per lot; the electronic signs may include text and digital graphics, but digital animation and video is only allowed in an Area of Special Signage Control; electronic signs may only be in the form of or integrated into a freestanding sign, projecting sign, or wall sign type, but if a projecting sign is used, the electronic component may not exceed 25 square feet; and in the C-5 and PC Zoning Districts, digital projection on windows is allowed on the ground floor. Category III electronic signs are subject to the following requirements:these signs are only allowed in an approved Area of Special Signage Control; the electronic component may not exceed:750 square feet in area; plus the percentage deviation allowed by Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and specified in an approved Signage Plan; the quantity and location of signs are as allowed by the approved Signage Plan; each message displayed on an electronic sign may include text, digital graphics, digital video, and digital animation; and electronic signs may only be in the form of or integrated into a freestanding sign, open structural framework, roof sign, or wall sign type. Category IV electronic signs are subject to the following requirements:these signs are only allowed in an approved Area of Special Signage Control; the electronic component may not exceed:5,000 square feet in area; plus the percentage deviation allowed by Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and specified in an approved Signage Plan; the quantity and location of signs are as allowed by the approved Signage Plan; each message displayed on an electronic sign may include text, digital graphics, digital video, and digital animation; and electronic Signs may only be in the form of or integrated into a freestanding sign, roof sign, open structural framework, or wall sign type. Category V electronic signs are subject to the following requirements:these signs are only allowed in an approved Area of Special Signage Control; the electronic component may not exceed:10,500 square feet in area; plus the percentage deviation allowed by Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and specified in an approved Signage Plan; the quantity and location of signs are as allowed by the approved Signage Plan; each message displayed on an electronic sign may include text, digital graphics, digital video, and digital animation; and electronic signs may only be in the form of or integrated into a wall sign type. Projecting electronic signs must maintain at least 8 feet vertical clearance from the ground. Electronic wall signs may project beyond 12 inches from the wall of a building face up to no more than 6 feet from the wall of the building face if:the electronic wall sign is 200 square feet or greater; is in an approved signage plan within an area of special signage control; the wall supports, necessary internal sign components, structural support, or maintenance access requires the projection beyond 12 inches and only to the minimum extent beyond 12 inches necessitated; maintains a clearance of at least 8 feet from the ground if the electronic wall sign does not rest on the ground; and meets all requirements of the <cite data-path="|building-codes|II">Building Code</cite> and any other applicable regulations. No electronic sign affixed to a building, including sign support structure, may project beyond the ends or top of the wall or higher than any roofline of the structure to which it is attached. In Local Historic Districts and Local Landmarks designated by the Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation, electronic signage may be added to an existing canopy that is integral to the architecture of the building in accordance with all applicable rules of <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite>, Title 17, Table 17-201: Sign Regulations, and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Freestanding signs are allowed:in a residential use category, only for multi-family dwellings with 20 or more units, dormitories with 20 or more rooms, and residential-care facilities with 17 or more residents; in all other use categories, for all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; and in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. To erect a freestanding monument sign, the lot must have a minimum of 50 feet of frontage along a public right-of-way. To erect a freestanding pole sign or a freestanding pylon sign, the lot must have a minimum of 100 feet of frontage along a public right-of-way. All freestanding signs must be securely built, constructed, and erected on posts, bases, and standards that are sunk below the natural surface in a manner that will prevent the sign from overturning. On a freestanding pole sign, no message or graphic is allowed within the minimum pole height. On a freestanding pole sign, the poles, uprights, or braces may not be more than 25% of the width of the lowest point of the message or graphic being supported. Where allowed, all freestanding signs may only be placed within 20 feet of the front or corner side lot line of any lot adjoining a street right-of-way of at least 30 feet wide. The height of the open space between the ground and the message component of any freestanding monument sign may not exceed more than 40% of the total sign height. Unless otherwise provided in this title, the maximum square footage of multiple freestanding signs may not be combined to create a larger freestanding sign. No part of any freestanding sign may project into, over, or otherwise encroach on a public right-of- way. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, no sign may have or consist of:any moving, rotating, or animated part; or any flashing, blinking, fluctuating, or animated light. The movement and flashing described in subsection (a) of this section is allowed on the following sign types:electronic signs; and barber poles or similar structures that have a rotating graphic. Ord.18-216

No sign may display any matter in which the dominant theme of the material taken as a whole appeals to a prurient interest in sex or is patently offensive because it affronts contemporary community standards relating to the description or representation of sexual matters and is utterly without redeeming social value. Ord.18-216

Painted/mural signs are allowed: in the R-1A through R-10 zoning categories on all uses in the institutional, open-space, and commercial use categories; in all other use categories, on all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; and in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. Ord. 22-181

Portable signs may not be displayed outside of a building. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Projecting signs are allowed:in a residential use category, only on multi-family dwellings with 20 or more units; in all other use categories, on all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. A projecting sign may not project more than 4 feet from the face of the building to which it is attached, including the area between the sign and the face of the building. The bottom of any projecting sign must be at least 8 feet above the sidewalk or thoroughfare. No projecting sign affixed to a building may project higher than the heights of the facade to which it is affixed. Projecting signs, including frames, braces, and supports, must be designed by a licensed structural engineer or manufacturer. Any movable part of a projecting sign, such as the cover of a service opening, must be securely fastened by chains or hinges. Projecting signs may not be constructed using cloth or other flexible material. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Roof signs are allowed:in a residential use category, only on multi-family dwellings with 100 or more units; in all other use categories, on all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. The roof sign may be located on the side of a roof structure that forms a backdrop for the sign. The maximum size of a roof sign is determined by:measuring the building frontage along the lot line of the elevation on which the roof sign will be placed; and applying to that measurement the area factor specified in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. The size of a roof sign on each side of the building is limited to the square footage calculated on that side only. In no case may the square footage allowed by the building frontage located along any lot line be combined with the square footage allowed by the building frontage located along any other lot line to create a larger sign on a building other than that allowed on each individual building elevation. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Wall signs are allowed:in a residential use category, only on multi-family dwellings with 15 or more units, dormitories with 20 or more rooms, and residential-care facilities with 17 or more residents; in the C-1 and C-1-E zoning districts, wall signs above the ground floor are only allowed on buildings with a building frontage of 30 feet or wider; in all other use categories, on all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; and in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. This subsection applies to the R-1A through R-10 Zoning Districts and the OR Zoning District. 1 non-illuminated or indirectly illuminated wall sign is allowed for each street frontage. This subsection applies to all zoning districts, unless otherwise specified by this subtitle or by Title 17-201: Sign Regulations. The maximum size of a wall sign is determined by:measuring the building frontage along the lot line of the elevation on which the wall sign will be placed; and applying to that measurement the area factor specified in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. The size of a wall sign on each side of the building is limited to the square footage calculated on that side only and must be placed on that side of the building unless otherwise provided in this title. In no case may the square footage allowed by the building frontage located along any lot line be combined with the square footage allowed by the building frontage located along any other lot line to create a larger sign on a wall or split into multiple wall signs other than that allowed on each individual wall unless otherwise provided in this title. Wall signs may be internally illuminated, unless otherwise specified in this title. Wall signs must be safely and securely attached to the building wall. Wall signs must be affixed flat against the wall and may not project more than 12 inches from the building wall. In the C-1 and C-1-VC Zoning Districts, wall signs must be located on the sign frieze – that is, on the portion of the building immediately above the ground-floor window and, in the case of a 2- or 3-story building, below the second-floor window sill. No wall sign affixed to a building, including sign support structure, may project beyond the ends or top of the wall or higher than the roofline of the wall to which it is attached. Architectural features that are part of the original building design, such as chimneys, may have a sign affixed to them. On existing buildings, a parapet wall may not be constructed for the sole purpose of increasing the allowable height of a wall sign. For new buildings, when a sign is to be mounted on a parapet wall, that parapet wall must be consistent with the architectural design of the building, including building materials. Wall signs may not be attached to un-reinforced masonry parapets. Wall signs may not be constructed of cloth or other flexible material. Wall signs may not extend above the parapet. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

Window signs are allowed:in a residential use category, only on multi-family dwellings with 20 or more units; in all other use categories, on all uses for which the sign is otherwise allowed under this title; in the zoning districts specified in this title or in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. Window signs may not block views into or out from the building in the area between 5 feet and 7 feet above the adjacent grade, in the R-5, R-6, R-7, R-8, R-9, R-10, C-1, C-1-VC, and C-2 Zoning Districts. “Window area” means a continuous surface undivided by any architectural or structural element. Mullions are not considered an element that divides a window area. Except as provided in <cite data-path="|32|§17-402">§ 17-402 {“Alcoholic beverage and cigarette advertising signs”} of this title</cite>, signs affixed to the inside of a window or mounted within 12 inches of a window are allowed, as long as the total of all window signs on a window, whether permanent or temporary, but not counting window displays, occupies no more than a percentage of the total window area, as specified in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations. Ord.18-216 Ord. 22-181

The City recognizes that certain commercial areas present a unique character that could be enhanced with the application of sign standards that depart from the requirements of this title. In these circumstances, these standards would be considered supportive of the commercial area. Under this subtitle, the Planning Commission may recommend and the City Council may approve the designation of an area that meets certain criteria as an Area of Special Signage. The Planning Commission may then approve a specific Signage Plan for that Area of Special Signage Control. Ord.18-216

An Area of Special Signage Control may be applied for in the C-1, C-1-E, C-1-VC, C-2, C-3, C-4, C-5, IMU-1 or 2, OR, or TOD Zoning Districts. The entire PC Zoning District, as mapped on the adopted Zoning Map, as of June 5, 2017, is designated an Area of Special Signage Control, unless the boundaries of the Area of Special Signage Control are otherwise amended per § 17-505.The entire PC Zoning District is designated an Area of Special Signage Control, unless the boundaries of the Area of Special Signage Control are otherwise amended per <cite data-path="32|§17-505">§ 17-505</cite>. An Area of Special Signage Control must include multiple properties and cover an area that has at least 600 linear feet of street frontage. The block faces may either be located directly across the street from each other or adjacent to each other along the street. The block faces may be in any 1 or combination of the zoning districts identified in subsection (a) of this section. Ord.18-216 Ord. 19-244

Approval of an Application for an Area of Special Sign Control requires approval by ordinance, in accordance with the applicable procedures of Title 5, Subtitle 5 {“Legislative Authorizations”} of this Code, except that §§ 5-506(a)(2) and 5-508 do not apply. If an area is located in a zoning district listed in <cite data-path="|32|§17-502|(a)|(1)">§ 17-502(a)(1) of this subtitle</cite> and meets the requirements of this subtitle, a proposed Ordinance can be introduced to designate that area as an Area of Special Sign Control. Notice of the proposed Ordinance’s introduction is as required in § 5-603 of this Code, except that instead of the contents of the notice as set forth in § 5-603(b) of this Code, the notice must instead include:date of the proposed Ordinance’s introduction and its assigned bill number; date of hearing on the proposed Ordinance; the name and address of the applicant(s); the boundaries of the proposed area; Planning Department contact information, at which the public can arrange to review the proposed Signage Plan; and a statement that any objections to the designation of the area as an Area of Special Signage Control should be given to the Director of Planning and the City Council. The Planning Commission may recommend approval of the application so long as the Planning Commission makes findings of fact that the designation of the area as an Area of Special Signage Control:would not increase the likelihood of traffic congestion or distraction; would not add to the visual clutter in the area; and would not be incongruous with the existing or contemplated design of the area. If 51% of property owners inside the proposed Area of Special Sign Control object to the designation of that area as an Area of Special Sign Control before the Planning Commission hearing on the proposed Ordinance, the Director of Planning:may not recommend to the Planning Commission that the City Council approve the application; but must still address the findings required by paragraph (1) of this subsection. The City Council may approve the application even if the Planning Commission does not approve it, so long as the City Council makes findings of fact that the designation of the area as an Area of Special Signage Control:would not increase the likelihood of traffic congestion or distraction; would not add to the visual clutter in the area; and would not be incongruous with the existing or contemplated design of the area. Ord.18-216

Once an area is designated as an Area of Special Signage Control, a Signage Plan must be submitted to the Planning Commission. The Signage Plan must include:a list of what sign types are being sought in the Area of Special Sign Control; the location and number of signs per lot or building; the maximum dimensions per sign; and the percentage deviation being sought in the area or height of the sign or in the maximum cumulative area of signs from what is allowed by right as provided in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs. The Signage Plan may include deviations from location, height, quantity, and dimensional requirements of this title so long as the deviation is allowed by Table 17-201: Sign Regulations or Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs.. The Signage Plan may include a type of sign that is not generally permissible in the underlying district if that additional sign type is listed in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations as one allowed in an Area of Special Sign Control for that district and is otherwise a sign type defined in this title. The Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals may not grant any variance for a sign that has been the subject of a deviation or addition under this section. When calculating the percentage deviation for a sign area or height, a fraction in the resultant allowable deviation that is ½ or more of a whole number counts as 1 additional square foot for sign area or 1 additional foot for height. The Signage Plan may not alter or deviate from the standards required by § 17-402 {“Alcoholic beverage and cigarette advertising signs”} or <cite data-path="|32|§17-411">§ 17-411 {“Obscene signs”} of this title</cite>. Ord.18-216

The Planning Commission must approve the Signage Plan before any signs may be erected in an Area of Special Signage Control. The Planning Commission must make findings of fact that the Signage Plan:would not increase the likelihood of traffic congestion or distraction; would not add to the visual clutter in the area; and would not be incongruous with the existing or contemplated design of the area. The Planning Commission may only approve a Signage Plan that:meets the requirements listed in Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs; and is otherwise allowed by this title. The Planning Commission may request review and evaluation of any aspect of a proposed signage plan from any City agency prior to approval of a signage plan at the Planning Commission. Any amendments to the boundaries of an Area of Special Sign Control must be approved by Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council. Any amendments to the Signage Plan must be approved by the Planning Commission. Ord.18-216

An Area of Special Signage Control and Signage Plan may be incorporated into a new planned unit development established by ordinance. If a planned unit development incorporates an Area of Special Signage Control:the proposed ordinance must have a dedicated section of the ordinance entitled, “Area of Special Signage Control”; the requirements of 17-503(c) must be included as part of the evaluation of application for the inclusion within the planned unit development; the requirements of 17-504 must be met and included in either text or exhibits in the planned unit development; Table 17-201: Sign Regulations and Table 17-306: Maximum Cumulative Area of Signs are applicable; a boundary change shall be considered a major change and must be changed by Ordinance; unless the signage is attached to portions of the planned unit development that are deemed to be a major change under Title 15 of <cite data-path="|32">this article</cite>, a Signage Plan included in the planned unit development may be amended by Planning Commission and considered a minor change to the planned unit development; if a planned unit development is repealed and not replaced, the Area Of Special Signage Control may continue to be effective with the designated boundaries and the approved signage plan; and unless otherwise provided, all provisions of this Code are applicable. Ord. 22-181