2015-12-08 PC Agenda Packet
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
7:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER - ROLL CALL – ADOPT AGENDA
2. MINUTES
November 10, 2015 Planning Commission Meeting (pages 1-2)
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS
a. Sign Code Update (pages 3-37)
4. OTHER BUSINESS
a. None.
5. ADJOURNMENT
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ALBERTVILLE PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015
DRAFT MINUTES
ALBERTVILLE CITY HALL 7:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER – ROLL CALL – ADOPT AGENDA
Commissioner Dominick called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Becker conducted roll call.
Present: Chair Klecker (arrived 7:15) and Commissioners Edgren, Dominick, Barthel and
Lindberg.
Absent: None
Others Present: City Planner Alan Brixius, Building Permit Technician Maeghan Becker, City
Council Member Hudson.
Motioned by Dominick, seconded by Barthel, to approve the agenda as presented. Ayes:
Edgren, Dominick, Barthel and Lindberg. Nays: None. Absent: Klecker. MOTION
DELARED CARRIED.
2. MINUTES
Motioned by Dominick, seconded by Barthel, to approve the October 13, 2015 Planning
Commission meeting minutes. Ayes: Edgren, Dominick, Barthel and Lindberg. Nays: None.
Absent: Klecker. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
A. None
4. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Special Sign Standards
Billboards:
Brixius began the meeting discussing the requirements of billboard signs. Brixius is removing
section 8 of the billboard chapter.
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes 2
Regular Meeting of November 10, 2015
Temporary and Portable Signs:
Brixius discussed the permit requirements for temporary signs, the duration of the permit, the
limitations of the permit, the maximum size, the temporary sign location standards, the
dangerous signs prohibited, electronic signs, nonprofit or charitable organization signs, and
violations for the temporary and portable signs.
New Language Added: New businesses in the B, PUD, or I Districts shall be allowed additional
temporary sign permits during the first three months of the opening of a new business.
- These shall not exceed three signs
- Only one of the signs may be a portable sign
- Display of the sign shall not exceed 30 days
- No additional sign will be allowed if it interferes with the use of adjacent property or
constitutes a danger to public health, welfare, or if it does not conform to the other
provisions of this chapter.
Comprehensive Sign Plans:
Brixius went over the comprehensive sign plan information, tenant directory signs, freestanding
signs, and traffic control/directional signs. Under the multiple occupancy buildings there is new
language added in which the property owner may identify up to four tenants per building within
the multiple occupancy building that will be eligible to locate wall signs on the building at
locations beyond their occupied tenant bays.
B. Permit Requirements:
Brixius went over the permit fees and the different application forms that are available for all the
different types of signs.
Barthel had concern that the owner of a sign had to get a permit to even maintain their
sign. Brixius is looking into this to confirm that they can maintain the sign, but they are not able
to change the structure without a permit.
C. Violations; Penalties:
Brixius went over the notice of violation, failure to remedy, and injunctive relief.
Motioned by Dominick, seconded by Barthel to set public hearing for the next Planning
Commission meeting.
5. ADJOURNMENT
Motioned by Dominick, seconded by Klecker, to adjourn the meeting at 7:25 p.m. Ayes:
Klecker, Dominick, Edgren, Barthel and Lindberg. Nays: None. MOTION DECLARED
CARRIED.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________________
Maeghan M. Becker, Building Permit Technician
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Adam Nafstad
FROM: Alan Brixius
DATE: December 2, 2015
RE: Albertville – Sign Code Update
FILE NO: 163.18
Over the last five months, City staff and the Planning Commission have been working to
draft a new Sign Code for the City of Albertville. On November 10, 2015, the Planning
Commission’s recommended draft ordinance was presented to the Albertville City
Council. After Council review, they approved the ordinance to move forward to public
hearing. On December 8, 2015, the draft Sign Code will be presented at public hearing
for consideration for formal adoption.
In pursuing the draft ordinance, we have been challenged by the 2015 Supreme Court
decision of Reed Vs. the Town of Gilbert, Arizona, which established new limits for sign
codes to be content neutral. Working with the Planning Commission and City Attorney,
we have attempted to craft a code that is both respectful of the Court decision and
accomplishes the City’s goals for signs. The draft Sign Code update includes:
1. An expanded purpose and intent statement that clearly explains the public
purpose for the Sign Code.
2. Definition section that describes the terms used within the Sign Code and
eliminates definitions that are sign content specific.
3. Non-conforming sign section has been amended to follow Minnesota State
Statutes for replacement of non-conforming structures.
4. List of prohibited signs.
5. General provisions and performance standards that apply to all signs. This
includes references to Building Code, setbacks, illumination, sign height, etc.
4
6. District regulations that define both signs allowed without permit and signs
allowed with permit within each zoning district. We have attempted to describe
signs without reference to sign content.
7. Special sign standards that address performance standards for the following:
a. Billboards.
b. Temporary and Portable Signs.
c. New Business Signs.
d. Comprehensive Sign Plan.
8. Permit requirements outlining the process for sign permits.
9. Violation and penalties directing enforcement to Section 1-4-1 of the City Code,
Administrative Fines.
Following the public hearing, the Sign Code may be further amended or recommended
to the City Council for adoption.
c: Kim Olson
Maeghan Becker
Paul Heins
Mike Couri
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CITY OF ALBERTVILLE
COUNTY OF WRIGHT
STATE OF MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 20____ – ___
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING TITLE 10 CHAPTER 7 SIGN REGULATIONS
AND REPLACING IT WITH TITLE 10, CHAPTER 7 SIGN REGULATIONS
OF THE ALBERTVILLE MUNICIPAL CITY CODE RELATING TO SIGNS
AND SIGN REGULATIONS
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALBERTVILLE, MINNESOTA ORDAINS:
SECTION 1. Title 10 Chapter 7 of the Albertville City Code is repealed in its entirety.
SECTION 2. Title 10 Chapter 7 of the Albertville City Code is hereby amended as follows:
10-7-1: PURPOSE AND INTENT:
A. Purpose. This section is established to protect and promote health, safety, general welfare
and order within the City of Albertville through the establishment of a comprehensive
and impartial series of standards, regulations and procedures governing the type, number,
size, structure, location, height, lighting, erection, use and/or display of devices, signs or
symbols serving as a visual communication media to persons situated within or upon
public rights-of-way or private properties. The provisions of this Section are intended to
encourage opportunity for effective, orderly communication by reducing annoyances,
confusion and hazards resulting from unnecessary and/or indiscriminate use of
communication facilities.
B. Objectives.
1. To establish standards which permit businesses a reasonable and equitable
opportunity to advertise.
2. To preserve and promote civic beauty and prohibit signs which would detract
from this objective because of number, size, shape, height, location, condition,
cluttering or illumination.
3. To insure that signs do not create safety hazards.
4. To preserve and protect property values.
5. Allow signage and communication to direct traffic on both public streets and
private property.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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10-7-2: DEFINITIONS:
For the purpose of this chapter, the terms defined in this section shall have the meanings herein
given them:
ADJACENT AREA: For the purpose of section 10-7-6 of this chapter, adjacent area shall be
defined as a strip of land that is immediately adjacent and parallel to Interstate 94 through
Albertville and meets both of the following criteria:
A. The adjacent area shall only include land parcels or lots that directly abut the Interstate 94
right of way, or city owned right of way intended for future interstate access
improvements, otherwise known as CSAH 19/Interstate 94 and CSAH 37/Interstate 94
interchange improvements. Parcels acquired solely for drainage and utility or ponding
purposes shall not be considered an adjacent area. Parcels that do not directly abut the
aforementioned rights of way are not within the adjacent area.
B. The adjacent area shall be limited to a strip of land four hundred feet (400') in width
measured from the midpoint of the center median between the opposing traffic lanes of
Interstate 94 and extending out either sides of Interstate 94 (see graphic below).
BILLBOARD: A sign, bulletin board, changeable copy sign, or poster panel located in the
adjacent area, as defined by Section 10-7-2 of this Code, which is used to advertise products,
goods, services, ideas, or non-commercial speech which are not exclusively related to the
premises or owner of the property on which the billboard is located.
BILLBOARD AREA OR SIGN AREA: That portion of the sign face of a billboard or business
sign which includes the border and trim thereof, but excludes the base and apron supports and
other structural members. If an advertising device or business sign is constructed so that the faces
are not constructed back to back, the angle shall not exceed ninety degrees (90°). If said angle is
greater than ninety degrees (90°), the total area of both sides added together shall not exceed the
maximum allowable advertising device or business sign area.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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BANNERS: Any attention getting devices which resemble flags and are of a paper, cloth or
plastic or plastic-like consistency.
CAMPAIGN SIGNS: Any sign that meets the provisions of Minnesota State Statute 211B.045.
CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN: A sign or portion thereof that has a reader board for the display
of text information in which each alphanumeric character, graphic or symbol is defined by
objects not consisting of an illumination device and may be changed or rearranged manually or
mechanically with characters, illustrations, letters or numbers that can be changed or rearranged
without altering the face or surface of the sign structure. Changeable copy signs shall also
include the following:
1. Changeable Copy Sign, Electronic: A sign or portion thereof that displays
electronic, non-pictorial text information in which each alphanumeric character,
graphic, or symbol is defined by a small number of matrix elements using
different combinations of light emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, light bulbs or
other illumination devices within the display area. Electronic changeable copy
signs include computer programmable, microprocessor controlled electronic
displays. Electronic changeable copy signs include projected images or messages
with these characteristics onto buildings or objects. Electronic changeable copy
signs do not include official signs.
2. Electronic Graphic Display Sign: A sign or portion thereof that displays
electronic, static images, static graphics or static pictures, with or without text
information, defined by a small number of matrix elements using different
combinations of light emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, light bulbs or other
illumination devices within the display area where the message change sequence
is accomplished immediately or by means of fade, re-pixalization or dissolve
modes. Electronic graphic display signs include computer programmable,
microprocessor controlled electronic or digital displays. Electronic graphic
display signs include projected images or messages with these characteristics onto
buildings or other objects.
3. Video Display Sign: A sign that changes its message or background in a manner
or method of display characterized by motion or pictorial imagery, which may or
may not include text and depicts action or a special effect to imitate movement,
the presentation of pictorials or graphics displayed in a progression of frames that
gives the illusion of motion, including, but not limited to, the illusion of moving
objects, moving patterns or bands of light, or expanding or contracting shapes, not
including electronic changeable copy signs. Video display signs include projected
images or messages with these characteristics onto buildings or other objects.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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COUNTY STATE AID HIGHWAYS OR CSAH: A road that is established, located,
constructed, reconstructed, improved and maintained as a public highway by the county and is so
designated a county state aid road.
DOUBLE FACE SIGN: A sign displaying information on both sides.
ERECT: To construct, build, raise, assemble, place, affix, attach, create, paint, draw or in any
other way to bring into being or establish, but it shall not include any of the foregoing activities
when performed as an incident to the change of advertising message or customary maintenance
of an outdoor advertising structure or device.
FLASHING SIGN: A directly or indirectly illuminated sign or portion thereof that exhibits
changing light or color effect by any means, so as to provide intermittent illumination that
changes light intensity in sudden transitory bursts and creates the illusion of intermittent flashing
light by streaming, graphic bursts showing movement, or any mode of lighting which resembles
zooming, twinkling or sparkling.
GRADE OF SIGN: The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground, paving or
sidewalk within the area between the sign and a line ten feet (10') from the sign.
GROUND SIGN: A sign placed upon or supported by the ground independently of the main
building or structure on the property. Pylon signs, monument signs, signs on accessory
structures, and other freestanding signs shall be considered "ground signs".
ILLUMINATED SIGN: A sign which has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines
illuminated by electric lights or tubes, or by other artificial light directed to the sign or by
internal illumination.
INTERSTATE HIGHWAY: Any highway at any time officially designated as a part of the
national system of interstate and defense highways by the commissioner of transportation and
approved by the appropriate authority of the federal government.
LOGO: Any letter, character, or symbol used to represent an entire word or group of words
denoting the name, trade or purpose of any business.
MAINTAIN: To allow to exist.
MOVING SIGN: A sign which revolves, rotates, has any moving parts, or gives the illusion of
motion.
MULTI-VISION SIGN: Any sign composed in whole or part of a series of vertical or horizontal
slats or cylinders that are capable of being rotated at intervals so that partial rotation of the group
of slats or cylinders produces a different image and when properly functioning allows on a single
sign structure the display at any given time one of two (2) or more images.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 9 of 33
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OFF PREMISES SIGNS: A commercial speech sign which directs the attention of the public to a
business, activity conducted, or product sold or offered at a location not on the same lot where
such sign is located. For purposes of this sign ordinance, easements and other appurtenances
shall be considered to be outside such lot and any sign located or proposed to be located in an
easement or other appurtenance shall be considered an off premises sign.
ON PREMISES SIGNS: A sign that is located on property that is the premises, property or site
of the use identified or advertised in the sign.
PORTABLE SIGN: A moveable sign not fixed to a building or the ground (i.e., pulled on a
trailer vehicle).
PROJECTING SIGN: A sign which is affixed to a building and which projects from the building
wall a distance greater than twelve inches (12").
PUBLIC NOTICES: Official notices posted by public officers, employees or their agents in the
performance of their duties, or as directed by such officers, employees or agents.
PYLON SIGN: A freestanding sign erected upon no more than two (2) pedestals, posts or shafts.
A pylon sign is a ground sign.
READER BOARD SIGN: A sign with separate inset letters and symbols or changeable copy
which can be easily removed and which are periodically changed.
RESIDENTIAL SPECIAL EVENT: A special activity occurring on a residential lot for a
duration not to exceed seven (7) days.
ROOF SIGN: A sign which is located above the eaves or coping line.
ROTATING SIGN: A sign or portion of a sign which in any physical part or in total turns about
on an axis, rotates, revolves or is otherwise in motion, including, without limitation, a multi-
vision sign.
SHIMMERING SIGN: A sign which reflects an oscillating, sometimes distorted, visual image.
SIGN: A name, identification, description, display, illustration, structure, or device which is
affixed to, or painted, or represented directly or indirectly upon a building or other outdoor
surface or a piece of land, and which directs attention to an object, product, place, activity,
person, institution, organization or business.
SIGN HEIGHT: The height of a sign shall be computed as to the vertical distance measured
from the base of the sign at grade to the top of the highest attached component of the sign.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 10 of 33
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SIGN SETBACK: The shortest distance between the property or public right of way line and the
surface or main supporting structure of a sign.
SIGN STRUCTURE: The supports, foundations, uprights, bracing and framework for a sign,
including the sign area.
SPECIAL SIGN: means any sign that is a billboard, temporary sign, or banner
TEMPORARY SIGN: A sign which is erected for a limited time and/or special purpose.
WALL SIGN: A sign which is affixed to the exterior wall of a building and which does not
project more than twelve inches (12") from the surface to which it is attached.
WINDOW SIGN: A sign affixed to a window or located inside a window surface legible to the
general public. (Amended Ord. 1987-3, 10-19-1987; amd. Ord. 2004-09, 11-15-2004; Ord. 2007-
08, 8-20-2007; Ord. 2014-06, 10-20-2014)
10-7-3: NON-CONFORMING SIGNS:
A. The following are non-conforming signs:
1. Prohibited signs.
2. All other signs not prohibited that do not conform to the provisions of this
chapter.
B. General provisions governing non-conforming signs:
1. A non-conforming sign lawfully existing upon the effective date of this ordinance
may be continued at the size and in the manner existing upon such date.
2. Non-Conforming Sign Maintenance and Repair. Nothing in this code shall be
construed as relieving the owner or user of a legal non-conforming sign or other
of the property on which the legal non-conforming sign is located from the
provisions of this ordinance regarding safety, maintenance, and repair of signs,
provided however, that any repainting, cleaning, and other normal maintenance or
repair of the sign or sign structure shall not modify the sign structure or sign area
in any way which makes it more non-conforming or the sign shall lose its legal
non-conforming status.
3. If at any time a non-conforming sign shall be damaged or destroyed to the extent
of more than fifty percent (50%) of its fair market value, said value to be
determined by the City, it may be re-established to its prior size and form, but not
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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expanded, if the property owner applies for a signed building permit within one
hundred eighty (180) days of the damage event. If no signed building permit is
applied for within the specified time period, then without further action by the
Council, the sign shall be subject to all the regulations specified by this code for
the district in which such land and buildings are located. Any sign which is
damaged to an extent of less than fifty percent (50%) of its fair market value may
be restored to its former extent if it is reconstructed within twelve (12) months
after the date of said damage. Estimate of the extent of damage or destruction
shall be made by the Building Official.
10-7-4: PROHIBITED SIGNS:
A. The following signs are prohibited in all zoning districts in the City of Albertville:
1. Flashing Or Moving Signs: No flashing signs, rotating or moving signs, animated
signs, signs with moving lights, or creating the illusion of movement shall be
permitted.
2. Painted Wall Signs: No sign which is painted directly upon a wall surface shall be
permitted.
3. Obsolete And Off Premises Signs: No sign shall be permitted which advertises a
business which is not being presently conducted on the premises on which the
sign is located, except billboards, as provided for in Section 10-7-7 of this
chapter, and except any privately owned recreational establishment having a gross
open space area within the city greater than eighty (80) acres, where such open
space is an integral part of the business, may have one directional sign not to
exceed thirty two (32) square feet in size identifying the name of the
establishment with one directional arrow. Said sign shall be in conformance with
this chapter. Said directional sign shall not be erected or maintained in the city
except on property abutting a county road.
4. Signs Obstructing Accessways or Windows: No sign shall physically obstruct any
required accessway or window in such a manner as to create a safety hazard.
5. Signs Obstructing Traffic: No exterior sign or sign located in the interior of a
building but visible through a window shall be maintained at any location where,
by reason of its position, size, shape or color, it may obstruct, impair, obscure,
interfere with the view of, or be confused with any traffic control sign, signal or
device, or where it may interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.
6. Signs on trees or shrubs, or which are painted or drawn upon rocks or natural
features, or on public utility poles.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 12 of 33
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7. Signs which are structurally unsafe, in disrepair, or are abandoned.
8. Roof signs located directly on a building roof or projecting over or from a
building roof.
9. Signs mounted on vehicles or trailers with the exception of trailer reader signs,
except temporary portable signs as permitted under Section 10-7-7 of this chapter.
10-7-5: GENERAL PROVISIONS:
All signs hereafter painted, constructed, erected, remodeled, relocated or expanded shall comply
with the following standards:
A. Application of Building and Electrical Codes: All signs shall be wired to conform to the
electrical code of the state of Minnesota. Sign structures shall be designed to provide a
thirty (30) psf snow load and a thirty (30) psf wind pressure. All signs allowed by permit
shall be installed and maintained in conformance with Minnesota State Building and
Electrical Codes, as may be amended.
B. Maintenance Requirements: All signs, including electrical wiring, supporting structures,
guywires or chains, shall be properly maintained and kept in a safe condition.
C. Illuminated Signs: Signs shall be shaded wherever necessary to avoid casting bright light
upon property located in any residential district or upon any public street or park. Any
illuminated sign located on a lot adjacent to, within two hundred feet (200') of, or across
the street from, any single-family residential district, which sign is visible from such
single-family residential district, shall not be illuminated at any time between the hours of
eleven o'clock (11:00) P.M. and seven o'clock (7:00) A.M., when the use is not open for
business.
D. Glare: In all districts, any lighting used to illuminate an off street parking area, yard or
other structure shall be arranged to deflect light away from any adjoining residential zone
or from the public streets. Direct or sky reflected glare, where from floodlights or from
high temperature processes such as welding or combustion, shall not be directed into any
other property. The source of light shall be hooded or controlled. Bare incandescent light
bulbs shall not be permitted in view of adjacent property or right of way. Any light or
combination of lights which cast light on residential property shall not exceed four-tenths
(0.4) foot-candle (meter reading), as measured from the residential property. Any light or
combination of lights which cast light on a public street shall not exceed one foot-candle
as measured from the centerline of the street.
E. Identifiable Address: Every principal building shall be identified with an address
containing the street number(s), which shall be readable from the nearest adjacent
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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roadway serving the premises. The size of the numbering shall not exceed two (2) square
feet.
F. Any sign requiring a permit in a commercial, industrial, PUD, or public zoning district,
now or hereafter existing, which no longer advertises or identifies a bona fide business
conducted, or a service rendered, or a product sold, shall be removed by the owner, agent,
or person having the beneficial use and/or control of the building or structure upon which
the sign may be found within ten (10) days after written notice from the City Official.
G. Signs shall not create a hazard to the safe, efficient movement of vehicular or pedestrian
traffic. No private sign shall contain words or colors which might be construed as traffic
controls, such as “stop”, “caution”, “warning”, unless the sign is intended to direct traffic
on the premises.
H. Sign Location/Setbacks.
1. No signs other than governmental signs shall be erected or placed within a public
right-of-way.
2. No freestanding sign structure shall be closer than five (5) feet from any property
line. When the bottom of the sign face of a freestanding sign is fifteen (15) feet or
higher above grade, the sign face may extend into the setback no closer than one
(1) foot from the property line. No sign shall be placed within any drainage or
public easement.
3. Except for off-premise signs allowed in other sections of this Ordinance, all signs
must be located on the same lot as the person, firm, business, product, or building
being identified.
4. On all corner lots, signs shall not be permitted within twenty (20) feet of any
corner formed by the intersection of two (2) streets. The twenty (20) feet shall be
in the form of a triangle with two (2) sides formed by the property lines and the
third side formed by a straight line connecting the two (2) twenty (20) foot points
on each side of the corner. A sign may be extended above the triangular area
provided that the clearance between the bottom of the sign face and the street
grade is fifteen (15) feet or higher.
I. Banners, Pennants, Streamers, Strings of Lights, Searchlights: No banner, pennant,
streamer, string of lights, searchlight, or any other similar sign shall be permitted, except
as provided in Sections 10-7-7.B and 10-7-7.C of this chapter. Banner signs and specialty
signs will be permitted as temporary signage as regulated by this section and Sections 10-
7-7.B and 10-7-7.C of this chapter.
J. Projecting signs are permitted if they are at least eight feet (8') aboveground and meet
required setbacks. Said sign shall be counted as a wall sign in the sign area calculation.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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K. All signs shall be accessory uses within the designated zoning district and shall be
directly related to the principal use of the property on which it is located. Only off-
premise signs and Billboard sign structures, allowed under Section 10-7-7 of this chapter,
shall be an exception to this provision.
L. Sign Height.
1. All height restrictions on signs shall include height of sign structure and be
measured from the lot grade or in the case of inflatable device from its mounting
surface to its highest point.
2. The top edge of any wall or building mounted sign or object intended as an
attention attracting device shall not extend above the roof line, parapet, mansard
or façade of a building adjacent to the sign or object.
M. A freestanding sign or sign structure constructed so that the faces are not back to back
shall not have an angle separating the faces exceeding twenty (20) degrees unless the
total area of both sides added together does not exceed the maximum allowable sign area
for that district.
N. Off Premise Signs. Off premise signs shall adhere to the regulations of Section 10-7-7 of
this chapter.
10-7-6: DISTRICT REGULATIONS: The following regulations apply to the City’s
various zoning districts.
A. In A-1, A-2, R-1A, R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts, the following signs are allowed without a
permit:
1. Temporary special event signs may be allowed without a permit subject to the
following:
a. The sign shall not exceed four (4) square feet
b. The sign shall not exceed five (5) feet in height
c. A temporary sign for a special event may not be placed on the property
prior to five (5) days before the event, and must be removed one (1) day
after the end of the event.
2. Address Identification: For each dwelling unit there shall be permitted one
address sign not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 15 of 33
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3. Property listed for sale may have one (1) temporary freestanding sign provided it
meets the following:
a. The sign shall not exceed four (4) square feet
b. The sign shall not exceed five (5) feet in height
c. The sign may only be displayed while the property is listed for sale.
d. The sign is removed within fourteen (14) days after the date of closing.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale.
4. Vacant lots that are two (2) acres or more in size that are listed for sale are
allowed one (1) temporary freestanding sign per adjacent street provided that:
a. The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height.
c. The sign shall not be placed in the public right-of-way and shall meet the
required sign setbacks.
d. The sign shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of the property being
sold.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale.
5. Remodeling: In connection with the construction or remodeling of a building,
there shall be permitted one freestanding sign not exceeding thirty-two (32)
square feet in area and eight (8) feet in height; on corner lots, two (2) such signs,
one facing each street, shall be permitted. All signs shall be removed by the
person or persons erecting the same no longer than two (2) weeks after final
inspection by the building official of the structure indicated, or two (2) years,
whichever is less.
6. Campaign signs are exempt from these provisions of this chapter per Minnesota
State Statute 211B.045.
B. In A -1, A-2, R-1A, R-1, R-2, R-3 Districts, signs are allowed by permit with the
following conditions:
1. Businesses other than home occupations allowed within the agricultural and
residential districts are allowed one (1) wall sign or one (1) monument sign
provided that:
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County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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a. Freestanding signs may not exceed fifty (50) square feet or eight (8) feet
in height.
b. Wall signs may not exceed fifteen (15) percent of the building façade.
2. Subdivisions with twenty (20) or more units are permitted one (1) permanent
freestanding sign per subdivision street entrance, provided it meets the following
regulations:
a. The sign may not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. The sign shall be placed on an outlot, easement, or common lot owned by
a neighborhood association property.
c. The sign may not be placed in a visibility triangle.
d. The neighborhood association shall be responsible for the maintenance
and upkeep of the sign.
e. The sign must be constructed out of materials approved by the zoning
administrator.
C. In R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, R-8, R-MH Districts, the following signs are allowed without a
permit:
1. One (1) temporary special event sign is allowed without a permit per street
frontage provided that the following criteria is met:
a. The sign shall not exceed four (4) square feet.
b. The sign shall not exceed five (5) feet in height with the exception of wall
signs.
c. A temporary sign for a special event may not be placed on the property
prior to five (5) days before the event, and must be removed one (1) day
after the end of the event.
2. Address Identification: For each dwelling unit, there shall be permitted one
nameplate not exceeding two (2) square feet in area indicating the name and/or
address of the occupant.
3. Remodeling: In connection with the construction or remodeling of a building,
there shall be permitted one sign not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area
and eight (8) feet in height; on corner lots, two (2) such signs, one facing each
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 17 of 33
17
street, shall be permitted. All signs permitted shall be removed by the person or
persons erecting the same no longer than two (2) weeks after final inspection by
the building official of the structure indicated, or two (2) years, whichever is less.
4. Property listed for sale or rent may have one (1) temporary wall or freestanding
sign per street frontage provided it meets the following:
a. Wall signs shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the building side facing a
public street.
b. Freestanding signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area or
eight (8) feet in height.
c. Signs must meet all sign setback requirements.
c. The sign may only be displayed while the property is listed for sale or
rent.
d. The sign is removed within fourteen (14) days after the date of closing or
vacancy filled.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale or rent.
5. Vacant lots that are two (2) acres or more in size that are listed for sale are
allowed one (1) temporary sign without a permit per adjacent street provided that:
a. The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height.
c. The sign shall not be placed in the public right-of-way.
d. The sign shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of the property being
sold.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale.
6. Campaign signs are exempt from these provisions per Minnesota State Statute
211B.045.
D. In R-4, R-5, R-6, R-7, R-8, R-MH Districts, the following signs are allowed by permit:
1. Businesses other than home occupations allowed within the residential districts
are allowed one (1) wall sign and one (1) freestanding sign provided that:
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 18 of 33
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a. Wall signs shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of building façade facing a
street.
b. Freestanding signs shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet or ten
(10) feet in height.
2. Multiple family, apartments, condominiums, and cooperatives containing four (4)
or more units, may have the following signs:
a. Wall signs not to exceed ten percent (10%) of the building façade facing a
street.
b. One (1) freestanding sign per site entrance from a street not to exceed
forty (40) square feet in area and not to exceed ten (10) feet in height.
3. Subdivisions with twenty (20) or more units area one (1) permanent sign per
public street access provided it meets the following regulations:
a. The sign may not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. The sign shall be placed on an out lot, easement, or neighborhood
association property.
c. The sign may not be placed in a visibility triangle.
d. The neighborhood association is responsible for the maintenance and
upkeep of the sign.
e. The sign must be constructed out of materials approved by the zoning
administrator and must complement the neighborhood.
E. In B-2, B-2A, B-3, B-4, B-W Districts, the following signs are allowed without a permit:
1. Address Identification: For each business unit, there shall be permitted one (1)
nameplate not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
2. Window Signs:
a. Window signs may occupy up to twenty (20) percent of the window area.
b. All window signs must be placed inside the building.
3. Remodeling: In connection with the construction or remodeling of a building,
there shall be permitted one sign not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area
and eight (8) feet in height; on corner lots, two (2) such signs, one facing each
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 19 of 33
19
street, shall be permitted. All signs permitted shall be removed by the person or
persons erecting the same no longer than two (2) weeks after final inspection by
the building official of the structure indicated, or two (2) years, whichever is less.
4. Vacant lots that are two (2) acres or more in size that are listed for sale are
allowed one (1) temporary freestanding sign without a permit per adjacent street
provided that:
a. The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height.
c. The sign shall not be placed in the public right-of-way and must meet sign
setback requirements.
d. The sign shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of the property being
sold.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale.
5. Property listed for sale or rent may have one (1) temporary wall or freestanding
sign provided it meets the following:
a. Wall sign shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the wall façade facing a
public street.
b. Freestanding signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet or eight (8)
feet in height.
c. The sign may only be displayed while the property is listed for sale or
rent.
d. The sign is removed within fourteen (14) days after the date of closing or
vacancy filled.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale.
6. Campaign signs are exempt from these provisions per Minnesota State Statute
211B.045.
F. In B-2, B-2A, B-3, B-4, B-W Districts, the following signs are allowed by permit:
1. Wall, Awning, and Canopy Signs:
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 20 of 33
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a. Area: The total wall sign area (including projecting, awning, and canopy
signs) for any building shall not exceed fifteen percent (15%) of the
building walls (including windows and doors) fronting on a public street
right of way.
b. Number: The total number of signs may not exceed two (2) signs per
building walls fronting on a public street right of way. One wall sign may
be a changeable message board including changeable
readerboard/changeable banner (non-dynamic) that is framed to define its
perimeter. Additional wall signs may be approved with the submission
and approval of a comprehensive sign plan per Section 10-7-7.D of this
chapter.
c. Awning or Canopy Signs: Letters may be painted or otherwise affixed to
any permissible awning or canopy, subject to the following regulations:
(1) Lettering or letters shall not project above, below or beyond the
physical dimensions of the awning or canopy.
(2) Signs on awnings that do not exceed fifty (50) percent of the total
square footage of the awning.
d. Location: Wall signs shall be located on that side of the building or tenant
bay facing the street right of way. Signs may be placed on that side of a
building or tenant bay not facing a street right of way provided that no
sign is located on that side of the building where the lot directly abuts a
residential zoning district.
e. Type and Construction:
(1) Illuminated Signs: Wall signs shall be by shielded illumination,
shielded silhouette lighting or shielded spotlighting, but not any
lighting where the light source itself is visible or exposed on the
face or sides of the characters.
(2) Clearance to Grade: Signs constructed of metal and illuminated by
any means requiring internal wiring or electrically wired accessory
fixtures attached to a metal sign shall maintain a free clearance to
grade of nine feet (9'). Accessory lighting fixtures attached to a
nonmetal frame sign shall maintain a clearance of nine feet (9') to
ground. In the event a metal sign structure or accessory fixture
herein described is grounded by the use of a grounding conductor
run with the circuit conductors, and said structure or fixture is also
grounded by being bonded to a grounding electrode at the sign site,
no clearance to grade shall be mandatory.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 21 of 33
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(3) Neon Signs: Wall signs may be gaseous tube or may be
illuminated by interior means of lighting of an intensity to prevent
excessive glare and shall comply with the regulations established
in section 10-7-7 of this chapter.
2. Ground Signs:
a. Not more than one ground sign shall be permitted on any lot. The total
area of such sign shall be based on the lot width where the sign is to be
placed up to a maximum area. For each one hundred (100) linear feet of
width, sixty (60) square feet of signage shall be permitted (lot
width/100 x 60) up to a maximum of two hundred fifty (250) square feet.
b. No ground sign shall exceed thirty feet (30') in height.
c. Sign area for ground signs applies to only one face of a two (2) faced
ground sign, or two (2) faces of a four (4) faced sign, etc.
d. Commercial lots having one hundred feet (100') in width immediately
adjacent to and along Interstate Highway 94 (excluding any intervening
street or railroad right of way) shall be allowed the following:
(1) One freestanding pylon sign not to exceed fifty feet (50') in height.
Sign area shall be determined by Section 10-7-6.F.2 of this
chapter.
(2) One freestanding monument sign at the site entrance not to exceed
sixty (60) square feet in sign area or twelve feet (12') in height.
(3) Lots containing an off premises advertising device shall only be
allowed one billboard sign not to exceed fifty feet (50') in height.
e. Ground signs shall have a background which is dark in color in contrast to
the sign lettering or message which is light in color to create a sufficient
contrast and be clearly legible. No ground signs with lightly colored
backgrounds shall be permitted unless the following conditions are met:
(1) All signs with light backgrounds shall be equipped with automatic
dimming devices. Light cast upon adjacent rights-of-way (as
measured from the curb line) or residential zoning districts (as
measured from the property line) shall not exceed five-tenths (0.5)
footcandles (meter reading) above ambient light.
(2) The sign does not exceed thirty feet (30').
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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(3) The sign is located two hundred feet (200') from all residential
buildings.
3. Changeable Copy Signs: One electronic changeable copy sign shall be allowed
per site in the above listed districts with the following restrictions:
a. The images and messages displayed on changeable copy signs must be
static, and the transition from one static display to another must be
instantaneous without any special effects with the exception of a scrolling
monochromatic message on a single color dark background.
b. A changeable copy sign may change its message no more than once every
eight (8) seconds.
c. No changeable copy signs shall be closer than two hundred feet (200')
from any residential zoning district unless they are screened from the
adjoining residential property, or they shall not be illuminated between
the hours of eleven o’clock (11:00) PM and seven o’clock (7:00) AM if
the use is not open for business.
d. All changeable copy signs shall be equipped with automatic dimming
devices. Light cast upon adjacent rights-of-way (as measured from the
curb line) or residential zoning districts (as measured from the property
line) shall not exceed five-tenths (0.5) footcandles (meter reading) above
ambient light.
e. Changeable copy signs shall not be permitted as window signs.
4. Automobile Service Station Signs: In addition to the district standards, the
following sign standards apply to automobile service stations:
a. Pump operation instructions located on the gas pumps are exempt from the
sign requirements.
b. Motor fuel station canopy may have a sign on those facades facing a
public street not to exceed thirty (30) percent of the canopy face.
5. A comprehensive sign plan in accordance with Section 10-7-7.D of this chapter.
6. Temporary special event signs as regulated by Section 10-7-7.B of this chapter.
7. New business temporary signs as regulated by Section 10-7-7.C of this chapter.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 23 of 33
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G. In I-1, I-2 Districts, the following signs are allowed without a permit:
1. Window signs:
a. Window signs may occupy up to twenty (20) percent of the window space
on which the sign is placed.
b. All window signs must be placed inside the building
2. Campaign signs are exempt from these provisions per Minnesota State Statute
211B.045.
3. Address Identification: For each business unit, there shall be permitted one (1)
nameplate not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
4. Remodeling: In connection with the construction or remodeling of a building,
there shall be permitted one sign not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area
and eight (8) feet in height; on corner lots, two (2) such signs, one facing each
street, shall be permitted. All signs permitted shall be removed by the person or
persons erecting the same no longer than two (2) weeks after final inspection by
the building official of the structure indicated, or two (2) years, whichever is less.
5. Vacant lots that are two (2) acres or more in size that are listed for sale are
allowed one (1) temporary freestanding sign without a permit per adjacent street
provided that:
a. The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height.
c. The sign shall not be placed in the public right-of-way and must meet sign
setback requirements.
d. The sign shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of the property being
sold.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale.
6. Property listed for sale or rent may have one (1) temporary wall or freestanding
sign provided it meets the following:
a. Wall signs shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the building façade
facing a public street.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 24 of 33
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b. Freestanding signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet or eight (8)
feet in height.
c. The sign may only be displayed while the property is listed for sale.
d. The sign is removed within fourteen (14) days after the date of closing or
vacancy filled.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale or rent.
H. In I-1, I-2 Districts, the following signs are allowed by permit:
1. Wall, awning, or canopy signs with the following restrictions:
a. Wall signs shall not exceed two hundred (200) square feet or ten percent
(10%) of the wall area (including windows and doors) facing the public
street right-of-way, whichever is less.
b. Signage placed on a wall abutting a public right of way, if illuminated,
shall be by shielded illumination, shielded silhouette lighting, or shielded
spotlighting but not any lighting where the light source itself is visible or
exposed on the face or sides of the characters.
c. Awning or Canopy Signs: Letters may be painted or otherwise affixed to
any permissible awning or canopy, subject to the following regulations:
(1) Lettering or letters shall not project above, below or beyond the
physical dimensions of the awning or canopy.
(2) Signs on awnings that do not exceed fifty (50) percent of the total
square footage of the awning.
d. Signage on Walls Not Abutting a Public Right of Way: A sign or signs
shall be permitted on those walls not abutting a public right of way of any
principal building, subject to the following regulations:
(1) The total area of each sign or signs shall not exceed nine (9) square
feet per access door.
(2) Notwithstanding Section 10-7-6.H.1.b of this chapter, if the main
entrance/exit to a particular use in the principal building opens on a
wall not abutting a public right of way, the applicant shall be
permitted to sign the walls not abutting a public right-of-way in
accordance with the provisions of Section 10-7-6.H.1.a of this
chapter.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 25 of 33
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2. Ground Signs:
a. There shall be not more than one ground sign along each public street
from which access is available for the parcel. The total area of such
ground sign shall not exceed two hundred (200) square feet in area.
b. No ground sign shall exceed thirty feet (30') in height.
c. In lieu of a ground sign, one pylon sign shall be permitted on any lot in an
industrial district, subject to the regulations in this section.
d. Ground signs shall have a background which is dark in color in contrast to
the sign lettering or message which is light in color to create a sufficient
contrast and be clearly legible. No ground signs with lightly colored
backgrounds shall be permitted unless the sign is located two hundred
(200) feet from all residential property lines.
3. Changeable Copy Signs: One electronic changeable copy sign shall be allowed
per site in the above listed districts with the following restrictions:
a. The images and messages displayed on the signs must be static, and the
transition from one static display to another must be instantaneous without
any special effects with the exception of a scrolling monochromatic
message on a single color dark background.
b. The sign may change its message no more than once every eight (8)
seconds.
c. No sign shall be closer than two hundred feet (200') from any residential
zoning district unless they are screened from the adjoining residential
property, or they shall not be illuminated between the hours of eleven
o’clock (11:00) PM and seven o’clock (7:00) AM if the use is not open for
business.
d. All signs with light background shall be equipped with automatic dimming
devices. Light cast upon adjacent rights-of-way (as measured from the
curb line) or residential zoning districts (as measured from the property
line) shall not exceed five-tenths (0.5) foot-candles (meter reading) above
ambient light.
e. Changeable copy signs shall not be permitted as window signs.
4. Temporary special event signs regulated by Section 10-7-7.B of this chapter.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 26 of 33
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5. New business temporary signs as regulated by Section 10-7-7.C of this chapter.
6. A comprehensive sign plan in accordance with Section 10-7-7.D of this chapter.
I. In P/I Districts, the following signs are allowed without a permit:
1. Address Identification: For each business unit, there shall be permitted one (1)
nameplate not exceeding two (2) square feet in area.
2. Window Signs:
a. Window signs may occupy up to twenty (20) percent of the window space
on each side of a principal building without a permit.
b. Window signs that occupy more than twenty (20) percent of the window
space require a permit.
c. All window signs must be placed inside the building.
3. Remodeling: In connection with the construction or remodeling of a building,
there shall be permitted one sign not exceeding thirty-two (32) square feet in area
and eight (8) feet in height; on corner lots, two (2) such signs, one facing each
street, shall be permitted. All signs permitted shall be removed by the person or
persons erecting the same no longer than two (2) weeks after final inspection by
the building official of the structure indicated, or two (2) years, whichever is less.
4. Vacant lots that are two (2) acres or more in size that are listed for sale are
allowed one (1) temporary freestanding sign without a permit per adjacent street
provided that:
a. The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. The sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height.
c. The sign shall not be placed in the public right-of-way and must meet sign
setback requirements.
d. The sign shall be removed within fourteen (14) days of the property being
sold.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale.
5. Property listed for sale or rent may have one (1) temporary wall or freestanding
sign provided it meets the following:
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 27 of 33
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a. Wall signs shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the building façade
facing a public street.
b. Freestanding signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet or eight (8)
feet in height.
c. The sign may only be displayed while the property is listed for sale.
d. The sign is removed within fourteen (14) days after the date of closing or
vacancy filled.
e. The sign is removed if the property is no longer offered for sale or rent.
6. Campaign signs are exempt from these provisions per Minnesota State Statute
211B.045.
J. In P/I Districts, the following signs are allowed by permit:
1. Wall Signs:
a. Area: The total wall sign area (including wall, awning, canopy, projecting
signs) shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of building façade fronting on a
public street.
b. Number: The total number of signs may not exceed two (2) signs per
building wall fronting on a public street right-of-way. One (1) wall sign
may be a changeable message board including changeable
readerboard/changeable banner (non-dynamic) that is framed to define its
perimeter. Additional wall signs may be approved with the submission
and approval of a comprehensive sign plan per Section 10-7-7.D of this
chapter.
c. Location: Wall signs shall be located on that side of the building or tenant
bay facing the street right-of-way. Signs may be placed on that side of a
building or tenant bay not facing a street right-of-way provided that no
sign is located on that side of the building where the lot directly abuts a
residential zoning district.
2. Freestanding Signs:
a. Area: The maximum size of signing area allowed for such uses shall be
determined on the basis of site area according to the following schedule:
(1) Up to 5 acres: 96 square feet.
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County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 28 of 33
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(2) 5.1 acres to 25 acres: 128 square feet.
(3) 25.1 acres and above: 160 square feet.
b. Height: The maximum height of sign structures shall be determined on the
basis of site size according to the following schedule:
(1) Up to 15 acres: 8.0 feet.
(2) 15.1 acres and above: 17.5 feet.
c. Number: One (1) freestanding sign per site.
3. A comprehensive sign plan as regulated by Section 10-7-7.D of this chapter.
10-7-7: SPECIAL SIGN STANDARDS:
A. Billboards:
1. Billboards shall only be allowed within the "adjacent area", as defined in section
10-7-2 of this chapter.
a. The maximum area of an billboard face, whether a single billboard face or
each face of two (2) back to back or V-type billboards, shall not exceed
seven hundred twenty (720) square feet, including border and trim, but
excluding base and apron supports and other structural members, and
provided further, that the maximum allowable extensions shall not exceed
fifteen percent (15%) of the total billboard area. The maximum size
limitation stated in this subsection A1a shall apply to each side of a
billboard structure, and billboards may be placed back to back, or in a V-
type construction (provided the angle shall not exceed 90 degrees), but not
more than two (2) displays to each facing, and such billboard shall be
considered as one billboard.
b. Billboards shall not be erected or maintained which are not effectively
shielded so as to prevent beams or rays of light from being directed at any
portion of the traveled way of an interstate highway, of such intensity or
brilliance as to cause glare or impair the vision of the operator of any
motor vehicle, or which otherwise interfere with any driver's operation of
a motor vehicle, are prohibited.
c. Outdoor billboards shall not be erected or maintained which shall be so
illuminated that they interfere with the effectiveness of or obscure any
official traffic sign, device or signal.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 29 of 33
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2. No billboard shall be erected closer to any other such billboard on the same side
of the same interstate highway facing traffic proceeding in the same direction than
one thousand feet (1,000').
3. All billboards shall comply with the minimum principal building setback
requirements provided in the applicable zoning district.
4. The maximum height of any billboard shall be thirty feet (30') from the ground.
5. The maximum length of any billboard shall be sixty feet (60').
6. No billboard shall be erected or maintained on any lot or parcel of land unless the
lot or parcel of land is within the area zoned as commercial or industrial districts
under the Albertville Zoning Ordinance.
7. No billboard shall be erected or maintained in that part of the city which lies south
of County State Aid Highway 37 and west of the bridge over Interstate Highway
94 (202 bridge).
8. Electronic changeable billboards shall only be permitted on legal conforming
billboards with the following requirements:
a. The graphic display may not change or move more often than once every
eight (8) seconds.
b. The images and messages displayed must be static, and the transition from
one static display to another must be instantaneous without any special
effects.
c. All changeable billboard signs shall be equipped with automatic dimming
devices. Light cast upon adjacent rights-of-way (as measured from curb
line) or residential zoning districts (as measured from the property line)
shall not exceed five-tenths (0.5) footcandles (meter reading) above
ambient light.
d. Billboards shall have the vertical support structure of the sign (such as
pole) concealed with architectural embellishments consisting of natural
stone, brick, masonry panels, stucco, or synthetic material that has the
appearance of natural stone, brick or stucco over eighty percent (80%) of
the exterior face on all sides of the structure.
9. No sign permit to erect a billboard on parcels or lots that are abutting city owned
right of way intended for future interstate access improvements, shall be issued
unless an acknowledgment and waiver of future damages is first signed by the
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
Page 30 of 33
30
applicant and all property owners and submitted to the city. Said acknowledgment
and waiver shall be in the form approved by the city attorney, and shall
acknowledge that future construction of CSAH 19/Interstate 94 and CSAH
37/Interstate 94 interchange improvements may impact the visibility of the
proposed device/sign. The acknowledgment and waiver shall require the applicant
and property owners to hold the city harmless and waive all damage claims
arising as a result of such improvements, including, but not limited to, claims
arising from the obstruction of the view of any billboard installed on the permitted
property pursuant to a sign permit issued by the city. Said acknowledgment and
waiver shall not apply to damages resulting from the physical occupation of the
applicant's real property by the city. Said acknowledgment and waiver shall be
submitted to the city with the application for a sign permit. Failure to submit such
acknowledgment and waiver shall result in a denial of the requested sign permit
or the refusal of the city to process the application due to its incomplete status.
10. Permit Identification Number: Every permit issued by the city shall be assigned
an identification number. The city shall also issue with each permit an identifying
number which shall be attached by the permittee to the billboard in a conspicuous
place. The permittee shall also have his name plainly marked on each billboard.
B. Temporary and Portable Signs: In all districts temporary and/or portable signs or banners
may be permitted subject to the following:
1. Permit Requirements:
a. Permit Application: Temporary and/or portable signs or banners shall not
be permitted without a permit. A temporary sign application fee, as set by
city resolution, shall be submitted to the city building official. Each sign
shall require a separate permit. The application shall be signed by both the
business requesting the sign and the property owner of the site where the
sign is to be located. The sign application shall include information that
identifies the type of sign, sign size, sign location and the dates when the
sign will be in place and the date of the sign removal. The city building
official is authorized to review and approve permits for temporary signs
and/or portable signs or banners, ten (10) days prior to the special event.
b. Duration Of Permit; Expiration; Sign Removal Required: All permits
issued hereunder shall be for a maximum duration of fourteen (14) days
and shall automatically expire after said period. Upon expiration, the
applicant shall cease to display any and all signage permitted by the permit
unless the applicant has received a new permit for said signage.
City of Albertville
County of Wright
Ordinance No. 20___ - ___
Sign Regulations
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c. Limitations On Permits:
(1) The number of temporary and portable signs shall be limited to
four (4) permits per calendar year per property. Shopping centers
and multiple-tenant buildings shall be counted as one property.
(2) If two (2) or more permits are obtained in succession by any
applicant, these permits shall be counted for the purpose of
determining the yearly limitations of Section 10-7-7.B.1.c of this
chapter.
2. Maximum Size: Maximum banner sign size shall be limited to thirty two (32)
square feet. Maximum portable sign size shall be limited to forty eight (48) square
feet.
3. Temporary Sign Location Standards:
a. Except as allowed in Section 10-7-7.B.6 of this chapter, all temporary
signs shall be located on the property of the business with the special
event.
b. Signs may not be placed in the right of way and must be set back a
minimum of five feet (5') from all property lines.
c. Where multiple signs have been located, they shall be a minimum of one
hundred feet (100') apart.
4. Dangerous Signs Prohibited; Anchors Required: Signs must not be unsafe or
dangerous; they must be securely anchored.
5. Electronic Signs: Electronic changeable copy signs shall be prohibited as
temporary or portable signs.
6. Nonprofit Or Charitable Organization Signs:
a. Nonprofit and charitable organizations as defined by internal revenue code
501(C3) or 501(C4) may have temporary off premises signs provided:
(1) All temporary signs require permits; permit applications must
include the property owner's permission to locate the sign on their
property.
(2) Special events are limited to no more than six (6) in a calendar
year.
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(3) Signs from a nonprofit or charitable organization shall not be
counted against the number of temporary sign permits allowed to
the property owner.
(4) Nonprofits and charitable organizations may have up to three (3)
temporary signs per permit.
(5) Nonprofit and charitable organization temporary signs shall
comply with sign location standards of Section 10-7-7.B.1.c of this
chapter. These signs may be located on vacant lots with the written
permission of the property owner.
7. Violation: Temporary off premises signs erected without a permit or in violation
of Section 10-7-7.B.1.c of this chapter may be subject to immediate removal
and/or be subject to an administrative fine per title 1, chapter 6 of this code. After
one notice of a violation of this section the city shall levy administrative fines for
subsequent violations or repeat offenses without additional notices. Failure to
abide by the approved permit or the provision of this code will be grounds for
denial of additional permits for six (6) months following notice of violation.
C. New businesses in the B, PUD, or I Districts shall be allowed additional temporary sign
permits during the first three (3) months of the opening of a new business. These “new
business temporary signs” shall not exceed three (3) signs consisting of a combination of
portable signs, banners, pennants, and flags. Only one of said signs may be a portable
sign, as defined in Section 10-7-2 of this chapter. Display of said signs shall not exceed a
period of thirty (30) days. No such additional sign will be allowed if it interferes with the
use of adjacent property or constitutes a danger to public health, welfare or wellbeing, or
if it does not conform to the other provisions of this chapter.
D. Comprehensive Sign Plan:
1. Introduction: Mixed use, commercial, and industrial multiple occupancy
buildings, PUD developments, or single occupancy buildings requesting more
than two (2) signs shall submit an application and receive approval of a
comprehensive sign plan. Any building devoted to two (2) or more uses shall be a
multiple occupancy building and shall require a comprehensive sign plan. Upon
approval of a comprehensive sign plan, no permit shall be issued for an individual
use except upon a determination that it is consistent with a previously or
concurrently approved comprehensive sign plan. The effect of said
comprehensive sign plan is to allow and require the owner of multiple occupancy
structures to determine the specific individual sign requirements for the tenants of
his building. As sign locations, size and other sign details may be of some
significant importance in lease arrangements between owner and tenant, it is the
city's intention to establish general requirements for the overall building only,
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thus providing a building owner with both the flexibility and responsibility to deal
with his individual tenants on their specific sign needs. Comprehensive sign plan
applications or amendments require approval of an administrative permit.
2. Comprehensive Sign Plan Information: The applicant shall prepare a written and
graphic comprehensive sign plan for submission to the city. Said plan shall
include, but not be limited to the following information:
a. Sign locations, wall signs, awning signs, traffic control signs, and
freestanding signs, etc.
b. Sign area.
c. Sign height.
d. Scaled building elevations.
e. Scaled floor plan that outlines tenant bays.
f. Identification of sign design.
g. Sign construction drawings (sections).
h. City staff may request additional information from the applicant
concerning the application or may retain expert opinions at the expense of
the city, or may require as a condition of proceeding with its consideration
that the applicant furnish expert opinion and data at the expense of the
applicant.
3. Through an approved comprehensive sign plan, the site may have building
identification wall signs, individual tenant wall signs, awning signs, canopy signs,
marquee signs and directory signs. The cumulative sign area of the
aforementioned signs shall not exceed fifteen (15) percent of the building façades
which they are located. These signs shall be located on building façades fronting
on public streets or a city approved private streets or parking lots.
4. Multiple Occupancy Buildings:
a. Wall Signs:
(1) Maximum Area: The total allowable sign area for a multiple
occupancy structure shall not exceed (fifteen) 15 percent of the
combined wall surfaces on walls which abut streets in business or
industrial zoning districts.
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County of Wright
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(2) No multiple occupancy structure may display more than two
overall building identification signs. The total area of individual
tenant wall signs, awning signs, canopy signs and marquee signs
shall not exceed fifteen (15) percent of the building façade of the
individual tenant bay.
(3) Tenant Signs: Individual tenants located within multiple
occupancy structures shall be permitted to display individual signs,
if they have separate exterior entrances to their use or they are
tenants in a shopping center. A tenant occupying a corner location
fronting two streets may display signs to both street frontages.
(4) Except for Section 10-7-7.D.4.a.(5) of this chapter, tenant wall,
awning, and banner signs shall be located on the building façades
of the tenant bay occupied by the business.
(5) The property owner may identify through a comprehensive sign
plan up to four (4) tenants per building within the multiple
occupancy building that will be eligible to locate wall signs on the
building at locations beyond their occupied tenant bays.
(6) The location of all wall signs and awning signs shall be established
through an approved comprehensive sign plan. No illuminated wall
signs shall be located on the side of a building where the lot
directly abuts a residential zoning district.
(7) Individual sign permits shall be required prior to the installation of
any wall signs or awning signs.
b. Tenant Directory Signs: Multiple story/multiple occupancy buildings with
tenants served by a common building entrance may have, in addition to
the wall signs, one tenant directory sign as either a wall sign or
freestanding sign located at each common entrance provided the tenant
directory sign meets the following standards:
(1) An individual tenant directory sign shall not exceed one hundred
(100) square feet in area.
(2) An individual tenant directory sign shall be located within fifty
(50) feet of the common building entrance.
(3) A freestanding individual tenant directory wall sign shall not
exceed ten (10) feet in height. Individual tenant directory wall
signs shall not be located above the building floor where the
common entrance is located.
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County of Wright
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4. Freestanding Signs:
a. Shopping Centers: Shopping centers containing more than four separate
distinct occupancies may erect one freestanding sign per street frontage,
not to exceed two freestanding shopping center signs per site (single or
double faced). Each ground sign may not exceed the district standards in
sign area, nor thirty (30) feet in height.
b. Other Multiple Occupancies: Multiple occupancy structures other than
shopping centers, or shopping centers having four or less separate and
distinct occupancies, may erect one ground sign in accordance with the
provisions of this chapter and may identify each separate and distinct
occupancy on said ground sign.
c. Changeable copy wall signs are permitted subject to the provisions of
Section 10-7-6 of this chapter.
5. Traffic Control/Directional Signs: The City may approve a traffic control/
directional sign plan for a commercial, industrial, and planned unit development
site including signs not to exceed four (4) square feet in area.
10-7-8: PERMIT REQUIREMENTS:
A. Permit And Compliance Required: Except for routine maintenance, no billboard or sign
may be painted, constructed, erected, structurally remodeled, relocated or change of
message, or expanded until a billboard or sign permit is obtained and until all other signs
on the premises of the applicant are brought into conformance with this chapter. No such
permit shall be issued for any billboard or sign unless the same is permitted by, and
complies with the regulations of this section; provided, however, that signs of a duly
constituted governmental body, including traffic or similar regulatory devices, legal
notices, and warnings at railroad crossings, are exempt from the permit requirement and
from the regulations of this section.
B. Application For Permit: The application for an advertising device or sign permit shall be
made upon the forms provided by the city and shall state or have attached thereto the
following information:
1. Name, address and telephone number of applicant and owner of the advertising
device or sign.
2. Location of lot, building or structure upon which or to which the advertising
device or sign is to be erected or attached.
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3. Position of the advertising device or sign or other advertising structures in relation
to nearby buildings or structures.
4. A blueprint or ink drawing of the plans and specifications and method of
construction or attachment to the building or in the ground.
5. Copy of stress sheets and calculations showing the structure is designed for dead
load and wind velocity in the amount required by this chapter and all other
ordinances of the city if requested by the city building official. This information
shall be furnished every three (3) years for each advertising device.
6. Name of person erecting the structure. (Amended Ord. 1987-3, 10-19-1987)
7. Any electrical permit required and issued for the sign.
8. A detailed description of any electronic or electrical components that are
proposed to be added to the sign. (Ord. 2007-08, 8-20-2007)
C. Permit Fees: For each billboard sign requiring a permit, there shall be an initial fee which
shall be set from time to time by City Council ordinance.
D. Revocation Of Permit: The city council may revoke any permit granted herein after a
hearing for violation of the provisions of this chapter, or applicable laws and regulations
of the United States or the state of Minnesota, upon thirty (30) days' written notice of
such hearing to the permittee. The city council, within ten (10) days after conclusion of
the hearing, shall notify the permittee of its decision, and may, where appropriate, notify
the permittee what he can do to retain the permit, and the permittee shall, in those
instances, have thirty (30) days therefrom in which to comply with the requirements of
the city council, if compliance would bring the advertising device into lawful conformity
with this chapter.
E. Scope Of Provisions; Exemptions:
1. Scope: The provisions of this section relating to permits and fees shall apply to
billboard legally existing on the effective date hereof as well as devices that may
be erected and maintained thereafter.
2. Exemptions From Permit Requirements: Signs identified within this chapter, as
allowed without permit, are exempt from permits and fee requirements.
10-7-9: VIOLATIONS; PENALTIES:
A. Notice Of Violation: If the building official or any other authorized agent of the city shall
find any advertising device, business sign, accessory sign or other regulated sign in
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violation of the terms of this chapter, a written notice shall be issued to the permittee,
owner, possessor (tenant in possession), operator or manager of the premises on which
the advertising device is located, specifying the violation and giving seven (7) days in
which to correct or remove the violation.
B. Failure to Remedy; Penalties: After the expiration of seven (7) days and the violation is
not corrected or discontinued, any person convicted of such violation shall be punished as
provided in section 1-4-1 of this code, and each day's violation after the initial seven (7)
day period shall constitute a separate offense.
C. Injunctive Relief: In addition thereto, the city may seek injunctive relief in the district
court of the county and require that either the advertising device, business sign, accessory
sign or other regulated sign conform or be removed.
THIS AMENDMENT SHALL BE IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
FOLLOWING ITS PASSAGE AND PUBLICATION.
Approved by the Albertville City Council this ____ day of ___________________ 20__.
_____________________________________
Jillian Hendrickson, Mayor
_____________________________________
Kimberly A. Olson, City Clerk