Ordinance 606 Amending Shorewood City Code Chapters 1201.02 Definitions; 1201.03 Subds 4 (General Area and Building Size Regulations) and 11 (Sign Regulations); and Chapter 1201.19 (R-C, Residential-Commercial District); and Chapter 1201.24 (L-R, LakeshoCITY OF SHOREWOOD
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN
STATE OF MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE 606
AMENDING SHOREWOOD CITY CODE CHAPTERS 1201.02 DEFINITIONS;
1201.03 SUBDS 4 (GENERAL AREA AND BUILDING SIZE REGULATIONS) AND 11 (SIGN
REGULATIONS); AND CHAPTER 1201.19 (R-C, RESIDENTIAL -COMMERCIAL DISTRICT); AND
CHAPTER 1201.24 (L-R, LAKESHORE RECREATIONAL DISTRICT) RELATED TO THE CREATION OF
CONTENT NEUTRAL SIGN REGULATIONS
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SHOREWOOD, MINNESOTA, ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. This Section amends Chapter 1201.02 (Definitions) of the Municipal Code. c+r
language is proposed to be removed and underline indicates language to be added.
Chapter 1201.02 DEFINTIONS:
For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context
clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
FLAG. Any fabric or similar lightweight material attached at one end of the material to a
staff, pole, or similar permanently -installed device so as to allow movement of the material by
atmospheric changes and that contains distinctive colors, patterns, symbols, emblems, insignia
or other symbolic devices.
SIGN. ,
visible to the geneFal Any letter, word, symbol, poster, picture, statuary, reading matter
or representation in the nature of advertisement, announcement, message, or visual
communication that is displayed for informational or communicative purposes, whether
painted, posted, printed, affixed or constructed, including any associated brackets, braces,
supports, wires and structures.
SIGN —ABANDONED. A sign which 1) no longer conveys the intended message; 2) is not
properly installed as originally proposed; 3) is installed in the public right-of-way in violation of
this Chapter; 4) remains on the property after the principal use has been removed; or 4) has
been poorly maintained as evidenced by deteriorated condtion, including illegible or faded text,
broken panels, or bent or broken supports.
5/r'A1 _ 400R&W n SigR GABIFAMWA ircatiRg r+rent -,Adders only, ..hn+heF r pt 8
riimori - I ferrn In D Dl 4r�r+r a addFnrr sign May ORGlUde the Rame of the r ririn n+
la -Al _ Alll/CDTIVAIr A hillbear.d nnr+nr panel, n+or! hi'llolin heard ., r.+h,r
vfvr�rrarrrn , occ i—paiici�a'iiiccv vvic u�� ova�v vr—vci icr
i
e#C-I�sWe_iy-reicated to - the -pFemF5e5 op whieh the sigR is leca ,,I
SIGNAREA. The total area of a sign measured at the perimeter of the surface on which
the sign is inscribed. For signs consisting of letters, figures, or symbols applied directly onto a
building or structure, the sign area shall be that area enclosed within the smallest rectangle
that can be made to circumscribe the sign. For two-faced, freestanding signs where the two
faces are parallel and face in opposite directions, only one face shall be used in computing the
sign area.
SIGN - BENCH. A sign which that is affixed to a bench such as, but not limited to' -a bus
stop.
the r .,her„ the sigR is lor-ated
SIGN - CANOPY. Any message or identification wfi+e#that is affixed to a projection or
extension of a building or structure erected in a manner as to provide a shelter or cover over
the approach to any entrance of a store, building or place of assembly.
SIGN — COMMERCIAL SPEECH. A sign advertising business(es), profession(s),
commodity/ies, service(s), or entertainment.
SIGN ArIREGTrvAW mnrsigrticc t e d -v i p a hli 'i c vi—p r'i v ato P rvp e rtv a h'i rh boa rs,v the
SIGN - DYNAMIC DISPLAY. A sign or characteristics of a sign that appear to have
movement or that appear to change, or have a series of images or displays caused by any
method other than physically removing and replacing the sign or its components, whether the
apparent movement or change is in the display, the sign structure itself, or any other
component of the sign. This includes a display that incorporates a technology or method
allowing the sign face to change the image without having to physically or mechanically replace
the sign face or its components. 44sr� includes ti+--aRy r„tat;Rg elying .,.,eviR,. flashin
,
the sign face coffeSeRt a se Fier f images 9F displays.
SIGN —FACE. The surface of the sign upon, against, or through which the message of
the sign is exhibited.
E
SIGN - FREESTANDING. Any stationary or portable, self -supported sign not affixed to any
other structure.
SIGN - GROSS SILHOUETTE. The area within an outline drawing of the principal building
as viewed from the front lot line or the related public street.
SIGN - HEIGHT. The height of a freestanding sign shall be computed as the vertical
distance measured from the base of the sign at the lowest point of grade to the top of the
highest attached component of the sign.
SIGN - ILLUMINATED. Any sign which that is lighted by an artificial light source either
directed upon it or illuminated from an interior source.
public e semi public- iRsfitu ielp AGA the site ..,helre the sigR is L,r-ated
SIGN - iNTcrORAL, A sign earFyiRg the naiiie Ref abhuWldiRg, 4S date 9f @FeGt49R
material er ade Af hreRze, aluminum 9F ether peFPAaRE?Rt type ef GeRstFur-fiep and
made an integraiPart Of the St.ruet-Fe.
e a _ dgR.
SI&A.1 A.41E.A.11-189ARD Any sqgR that has a message Felated to the site's fe-A-d- se.rvire ;;Ad
gFa de to th., I94008Y limit 9f the c
SIGN - MONUMENT. A sign whose base and structure is positioned primarily on the
ground and is typically solid from grade to the top of the structure.
SIGN - NONCONFORMING.
a. LEGAL. A sign wfi+eh that lawfully existed at the time of the passage of
this Chapter or amendments thereto, but whieh does not conform with the regulations of this
chapter.
b. ILLEGAL. A sign whir-# that was constructed after the passage of this
chapter or amendments thereto and does not conform with the regulations of this chapter.
SIGN - NONCOMMERCIAL SPEECH. A sign that includes message that does not
promote commercial products or services.
SIGN -PERMANENT. Any sign that is not temporary.
SIGN - PORTABLE. A sign so designed a-s to be movable from one location to another
and wher# is not permanently attached to the ground or structure.
SIGN - PROJECTING. A sign, other than a wall sign, that is affixed to a building and
extends perpendicular from the building wall over 12 inches from the surface to which it is
attached.
3
SIGN - PUBLIC. Any sign erected by municipal, county, state or other governmental
agencies, including, but not limited to, street signs, traffic -control signs, and parking -control
signs.
SIGN - ROOF. Any sign 4that is erected, constructed or attached wholly or in part
upon or over the roof of a building.
SIGN - ROTATING. A sign wfi+chthat revolves or rotates on its axis.
SIGN - STRUCTURE. The supports, uprights, bracing and framework for a sign, including
the sign area.
SIGN - TEMPORARY. Any sign whiehthat is: 1) erected or displayed for a finite period of
time (as specified elsewhere in this Chapter); 2) constructed with impermanent construction
techniques or materials including but not limited to, vinyl or plastic sheeting or plywood; or 3) is
portable or otherwise installed to be readily movable.
SIGN - WALL. A sign wthat is affixed to the exterior wall of a building and which is
parallel to the building wall. A wall sign does not project more than 12 inches from the surface
to which it is attached, nor extend beyond the top of the parapet wall.
SIGN - WALL GRAPHIC. A sign w#ie#that is painted or similarly adhered directly on an
exterior wall surface.
SIGN - WINDOW. A sign affixed to or inside e# a window in view of the general public.
This does not include merchandise on display.
Section 2. This Section rescinds and replaces Chapter 1201.03 Subd. 11(Signs) of the Municipal
Code in its entirety with the language below:
Chapter 1201.03 Subd. 11. Sign Regulations.
a. Findings. The City Council hereby finds it necessary for the promotion and preservation
of the public health, safety, welfare, and aesthetics of the community that the construction,
location, size, conspicuity, brightness, legibility, operational characteristics and maintenance of
signs be controlled. Signs have a direct and substantial impact on traffic safety, pedestrian
safety, community aesthetics and property values. The City Council recognizes that a great
percentage of signs that are blighted, unattractive, or provide an unsafe distraction to motorists
can be corrected by sensible quality control through adequate maintenance, inspection, and
operational guidelines. The City Council also recognizes that signs provide a guide to the
physical environment and, as such, serve an important function to the community and
economy. The City Council further finds as follows:
(1) Exterior signs can have a substantial impact on the character of the community
and the quality of the environment.
(2) Uncontrolled and unlimited signs can create traffic hazards, aesthetic concerns
and detriments to property values, thereby threatening the public health, safety and welfare.
4
(3) Signs provide an important medium through which individuals may convey a
variety of messages.
(4) The City's zoning regulations have, since as early as 1956, included the
regulations of signs in an effort to provide adequate means of expression and to provide the
economic viability of the business community, while protecting the city and its citizens from a
proliferation of signs of a type, size, location and character that could adversely impact upon
the aesthetics of the community and threaten the health, safety and welfare of the community.
(5) The regulation of the physical characteristics of signs has had a positive impact
on traffic safety and the appearance of the community.
b. Purpose and Intent: The City Council intends by this chapter to establish a legal
framework for sign regulation in the city. The regulations promulgated in this chapter are
intended to facilitate an easy and agreeable communication between people while protecting
and promoting the public health, safety, welfare, and aesthetics of the community.
(1) It is not the purpose or intent of these sign regulations to prefer or favor
commercial messages or speech over noncommercial messages or speech, nor is it the purpose
or intent of these sign regulations to discriminate between types of noncommercial speech or
the viewpoints represented therein. It is not the purpose or intent of these sign regulations to
regulate the message displayed on any sign; nor is it the purpose or intent of this ordinance to
regulate any building design or any display not defined as a sign, or any sign that cannot be
viewed from outside of a building.
(2) The purpose and intent of these sign regulations is to:
(a) Regulate the number, location, size, type, illumination and other physical
characteristics of signs within the city in order to promote the public health, safety and welfare.
(b) Maintain, enhance, and improve the aesthetic environment of the city by
preventing visual clutter when harmful to the appearance of the community.
(c) Improve the visual appearance of the city while providing for effective
means of communication, consistent with constitutional guarantees and the city's goals of
public safety and aesthetics.
(d) Provide for fair and consistent enforcement of the sign regulations set
forth in this subdivision under the zoning authority of the city.
C. Effect. A sign may be erected, mounted, displayed or maintained in the city if it is in
conformance with the provisions of this subdivision. The effect of these regulations is to:
(1) Allow a wide variety of sign types in commercial zones, and a more limited
variety of signs in other zones;
(2) Allow signs that are designed, constructed, installed and maintained in a manner
that does not adversely impact public safety or unduly distract motorists;
(3) Allow certain small, unobtrusive signs incidental to the principal use of a site in
all zones when in compliance with the requirements of this sign ordinance;
(4) Prohibit signs whose location, size, type, illumination or other physical
characteristics negatively affect the natural or built environment and where the communication
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can be accomplished by means having a lesser impact on the environment and the public
health, safety and welfare; and
(5) Provide for the enforcement of the provisions of these regulations.
d. Scope and Applicability. All signs installed within the City of Shorewood are subject to
the sign regulations of this subdivision and all other applicable provisions of this Chapter. Signs
are accessory uses and shall be permitted only in those zoning districts where they are
specifically listed as allowable accessory uses, except for signs installed on vacant lots marketed
for sale or lease.
e. Substitution. The owner of any sign that is otherwise allowed by this subdivision may
substitute noncommercial speech in lieu of any other commercial speech or noncommercial
speech. This substitution of copy may be made without any additional approval or permitting.
The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over
noncommercial speech or favoring of any particular noncommercial speech over any other
noncommercial speech. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary.
f. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of these sign
regulations is for any reason held to be invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or
enforceability of the remaining portion of these sign regulations, The City Council hereby
declares that it would have adopted the sign regulations in each section, subsection, sentence,
or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections,
sentences, clauses, or phrases be declared invalid.
g. Permit Required.
(1) Permanent Signs. Except as expressly provided in Section 1201.03 Subd. 11. g.
(7) of City Code, no permanent sign may be erected, altered, reconstructed, maintained or
moved without first securing a permit from the city. The content of the message or speech
displayed on the sign shall not be reviewed or considered in determining whether to approve or
deny a permit.
(2) Temporary Signs. Except as expressly provided in Section 1201.03 Subd. 11. g.
(7) of City Code, no temporary sign may be erected, altered, reconstructed, maintained or
moved without first securing a permit from the city consistent with the regulations of this
subdivision and Section 1201.07 Subd. 2. The content of the message or speech displayed on
the sign shall not be reviewed or considered in determining whether to approve or deny a
permit.
(3) Review.
(a) No permit shall be issued until the application, plans, and materials have
been found to be in conformance with the zoning and building regulations, as determined by
the Zoning Administrator and Building Official or their designee(s) and the required fee has
been paid. Signs installed prior to issuance of a permit shall be either required to be removed
or the property owner shall be required to pay a double permit fee. Fees shall be as specified in
Chapter 1301 as may be amended from time to time.
(b) Application for a sign permit shall be made on forms provided by the City
and include:
(i) The name and contact information of the property owner, tenant
(if applicable) and the person, firm, corporation, or other organization erecting the sign;
(ii) A certified survey and site plan showing the proposed location of
the sign on the site including its position relative to easements, buildings, structures, driveways,
streets, property lines, etc.
(iii) A complete set of plans showing the necessary elevations,
distances, sign dimensions, and details to fully and clearly represent the construction and
placement of the sign, including, but not limited to, the following information:
1. Number of sign faces and type of sign (building,
freestanding, banner, feather, etc.);
2. Construction materials;
3. Sign dimensions;
4. Type, direction, location and intensity of illumination and
name of electrical contractor;
5. Method of attachment to the building or ground.
(iv) Stress sheets and calculations showing that the structure is
designed to meet the dead load and wind pressure requirements of the Minnesota State
Building Code (permanent signs only).
(v) The estimated value of the sign (permanent signs only) including
labor to install the signs, the sign and any other necessary materials).
(c) Action. The City shall inform the applicant of approval or denial within
the time period required by state law (M.S. 15.99). Appeal of a permit denial may be submitted
consistent with Section 1201.05 of City Code. The permit shall not be issued until the fee for
the sign is submitted.
(4) Inspections. The Building Official, Zoning Administrator or their designee may
require inspections to determine that the sign has been installed in compliance with the
minimum standards set forth in this Chapter, the Minnesota State Building Code, any other
applicable chapter of City Code, with the approved permit, or to confirm removal of temporary
signs in the timeframe specified by the permit or this subdivision.
(5) Expiration. Permits for permanent signs shall expire if the sign was not installed
as approved within 180 days after the permit was issued. Permits for temporary signs shall
expire as indicated on the permit or in this subdivision.
(6) Additional Permits Required.
(a) Electrical permits. Signs that are illuminated or in any way connected to
electricity must be installed in accordance with the current electrical code and a separate
permit from the State of Minnesota must be obtained prior to placement.
(b) Other jurisdictions. Prior to installing any sign, the applicant shall be
responsible for acquiring permits from all other jurisdictions, including but not limited to, the
State of Minnesota, Hennepin County, etc.
(7) Exceptions. The following signs do not require a permit but shall comply with all
other applicable provisions of City Code. These exemptions, however, do not relieve the owner
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of the sign from the responsibility of compliance with the provisions of the zoning regulations
or any other law or ordinance regulating signs in the city.
(a) Public signs placed in the right-of-way.
(b) The changing of copy on a manual message board or dynamic display
unless a structural or electrical change is involved.
(c) The changing of copy on any sign that does not affect the structure or
electrical components.
(d) Window signs.
(e) Signs as allowed by Sections 1201.03 Subd. 11 h. (5), (6), (9), (11), (12)
and (14) of City Code.
(f) Temporary signs as allowed by section 1201.03 Subd. 11. i. (1) (h) i and iii;
1201.03 Subd. 11 i. (2) (f); and 1201.03 Subd. 11 i (4) (e) vi.
height.
(g) Installing or exchanging flags on an existing flagpole.
(h) Temporary signs three square feet in area or less and under 36 inches in
General Regulations. These regulations shall apply to all signs.
(1) Building Code. All permanent signs shall comply with Chapter 1001 of City Code.
(2) Placement. No signs shall be located closer than five feet to any property line
unless a greater setback is directed elsewhere in this subdivision.
(3) Public rights -of -way, public lands or public easements.
(a) No signs other than public signs shall be erected or temporarily placed
within or upon public lands or within public rights -of -way abutting public lands.
(b) No signs other than public signs and those authorized by Section 1201.03
Subd. 11 h. (5) of City Code may be erected or temporarily placed within or upon rights -of -way
or public easements.
(c) Any sign placed in violation of this section shall be considered abandoned
and may be removed without notice.
(4) Prohibited signs. The following signs are specifically prohibited:
(a) Any sign that obstructs the vision of drivers or pedestrians or detracts
from the visibility of any public or official traffic -control device.
(b) Any sign that resembles or imitates an official traffic sign or signal, unless
directed to be installed by a federal, state or local government.
(c) Any sign in violation of Section 1201.03 Subd. 2. h. (Traffic Visibility) of
City Code.
(d) Any sign that moves, rotates, has any moving parts or gives the illusion of
motion.
(e) Any sign that contains or consists of banners, pennants, ribbons,
streamers, strings of light bulbs, spinners or similar devices, except as allowed by Section
1201.03 Subd. 11 i. (2) (g).
11 i (2) (g).
(f) Portable or inflatable signs (except as provided in Section 1201.03 Subd.
E'1
(g) Signs that are attached in any manner to trees, shrubs, fences, utility
poles, bridges, towers, transit shelters, or other similar structures, except that public signs may
be installed to utility poles, bridges, towers transit shelters, or other similar structures.
(h) No sign shall be illuminated with any flashing or intermittent lights
(unless installed on a public sign), nor shall any sign shimmer or be animated.
(i) Any sign that allows light to be directed at on -coming traffic, interfere
with or obscure an official traffic sign or signal
(j) Any illuminated sign that directs light onto a lake so as to interfere with
navigation.
(k) Roof signs.
(1) Window signs in excess of 10% of the total area of the window space as
viewed from the street, up to but not exceeding a maximum of 20 square feet.
(m) Any sign that projects into the required setback as outlined in this
Subdivision or over the public right-of-way or public easements, except for those authorized by
Section 1201.03 Subd. 11 h. (5) of City Code.
(n) Wall graphics.
(o) Abandoned signs.
(p) Any sign greater than 200 square feet, except as permitted in Section
1201.03 Subd. 11 h. (5) of City Code.
(5) Temporary Noncommercial Speech Signs posted as permitted by MS § 21113.045.
(a) Signs may be posted in any number or size during the following times:
(i) State general election years: 46 days before a state primary until
10 days following the state general election pursuant to MS § 21113.045.
(ii) For elections without primaries: 100 days before the election to
10 days following the election.
(b) During the time identified in (a) above, the noncommercial speech signs
shall not be located in violation of 1201.03 Subd. 2. h. (Traffic Visibility) of City Code or closer
than five feet from the street, as measured from:
(i) The curb of a paved roadway.
(ii) The paved street surface for those streets without curb and gutter.
(iii) The edge of the aggregate surface for gravel street or those paved
streets with improved gravel shoulders.
(6) Required signage. Any sign required by Chapters 1001 or 607 of the Shorewood
City Code, shall not reduce the allowed sign area nor the number of signs allowed on any
property, but must adhere to the other regulations of this subdivision.
(7) Illumination. Illumination for signs must be constructed and maintained so that
the source of light is not visible from the public right-of-way or a property used or zoned for
residential purposes and consistent with the regulations in Section 1201.03 Subd. 2. i. of City
Code. Illumination must be authorized in the specific district in which the sign is located.
(8) Dynamic Display. The purpose of this paragraph is to allow new technologies in
commercial signage that allow messages to be easily updated, while at the same time
preventing distraction to motorists and minimizing visual impacts of electronic signage on
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residential properties. The city finds that dynamic displays should be allowed on signs but with
significant controls to minimize their proliferation and their potential threat to public safety.
(a) Authorization. Signs with dynamic display are only permitted in the
zoning districts listed in Section 1201.03 Subd. 11 i of City Code that specifically authorize them.
(b) Freestanding signs only. Signs with dynamic displays shall only be
allowed as part of freestanding signs.
(c) Setbacks/hours. Signs with dynamic displays must be a minimum of 20
feet from side lot lines and 100 feet from adjacent residential districts. Dynamic display signs
within 500 feet of residential properties shall be programmed to freeze the image between the
hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
(d) Area limitation. Dynamic displays may occupy no greater than 25 percent
of the actual copy and graphic area. The remainder of the signs shall not have the capability to
have dynamic displays even if they are not used. Only one dynamic display area is allowed on a
sign face. The dynamic display sign shall be located at the bottom of the sign face.
(e) Duration of image for time/temperature. A display of time, date, or
temperature must remain for the duration specified in Section 1201.03 Subd. 11. i of City Code,
before changing to a different display, but the time, date, or temperature information itself
may change no more often than once every 60 seconds.
(f) Transition. If a dynamic display sign's image or any portion thereof
changes, the change sequence must be instantaneous without any special effects.
(g) Video display. No portion of a dynamic display sign may change any part
of its sign face by a method of display characterized by motion or pictorial imagery, or depict
action or a special effect to imitate movement, or display pictorials or graphics in a progression
of frames that gives the illusion of motion of any kind.
(h) Fluctuating or flashing illumination. No portion of a dynamic display sign
image may fluctuate in light intensity or use intermittent, strobe or moving light, or light that
changes in intensity in sudden transitory bursts, streams, zooms, twinkles, sparkles or in any
other manner that creates the illusion of movement.
(i) Audio. Dynamic display signs shall not be equipped with audio speakers.
(j) Malfunctions. Dynamic display signs must be designed and equipped to
freeze the sign face in one position if a malfunction occurs. Dynamic display signs must also be
equipped with a means to immediately discontinue the display if it malfunctions, and the sign
owner or operator must immediately turn off the display when notified by the city that it is not
complying with the standards of this subdivision.
(k) Brightness. All dynamic display signs shall meet the following brightness
standards:
(i) No dynamic display sign may exceed a maximum illumination of
5,000 nits (candelas per square meter) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of
500 nits (candelas per square meter) between sunset to sunrise as measured from the sign's
face at maximum brightness.
(ii) All dynamic display signs having illumination by means other than
natural light must be equipped with an ambient light sensor and a dimmer control or other
mechanism to continuously adjust the sign's brightness to ensure at any time the sign's
intensity does not exceed 0.3 foot candles above ambient light levels as measured from 100
10
feet from the sign's face and automatically controls the sign's brightness to comply with the
requirements of this subdivision.
(iii) No dynamic display sign may be of such intensity or brilliance that
it interferes with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, device or signal.
(iv) The owner or controller of the dynamic display sign must adjust
the sign to meet these brightness standards in accordance with the city's instructions. The
adjustment must be made immediately upon notice of non-compliance from the city.
(v) A written certification from the sign manufacturer that light
intensity has been preset to conform to the brightness levels established by code and that the
preset level is protected from end user manipulation by password protected software or other
method. This would offer the advantage of ensuring that electronic signs at a minimum cannot
exceed the standards.
(9) Temporary signs for properties available for sale, lease or rent. Such properties
may have the following additional signs:
(a) The maximum size of signs shall not exceed six square feet for single
family, two-family, townhouse or quadraminium homes nor more than 20 square feet for
multiple family or nonresidential uses.
(b) The maximum height of the signs is eight feet.
(c) One sign is permitted per street frontage. Lakeshore lots may have an
additional sign oriented to the lake.
(d) Signs must be removed from the property within 14 days after the sale or
the building is leased/rented.
(e) The signs may not be illuminated.
(10) Flags. A maximum of four flags may be displayed on any one property on
freestanding poles and the height of the flagpole shall not exceed the height allowed for a
principal building in the applicable zoning district.
(11) Interior signage. This subdivision shall not apply to any signs installed within
buildings provided they are a minimum of three feet within the building and not visible from
outside the building.
(12) Traffic signs (Public). No regulations in this subdivision shall apply to public signs
used for traffic or traffic control installed by or directed to be installed by a federal, state,
county or local government.
(13) Temporary signs for new non-residential uses. Any new non-residential use that
has applied for its permanent business sign may, at the same time, apply for a permit for a
temporary sign to be displayed for no longer than 30 days, or until the permanent sign has been
erected, whichever comes first. The temporary sign shall be no larger than the approved
permanent sign.
(14) Temporary signs for properties with construction not related to subdivision. One
additional temporary sign may be installed on any property where construction is occurring, but
shall not exceed six square feet for single-family, two-family, townhouse or quadraminium nor
more than 20 square feet for multiple family or nonresidential uses. The sign shall be removed
from the site when the construction project is finished or two years from the initial installation,
whichever comes first. The maximum height of such signage is eight feet.
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i. District Regulations. Subject to other conditions of this subdivision, the following signs
are authorized as specified below for each zoning district.
(1) Residential Districts (R-1A - R-36 and residential uses in the PUD and R-C
Residential/Commercial Districts)
(a) Commercial speech signs are not allowed for single-family, two-family,
townhouse, and quadraminium uses, except for those authorized in Section 1201.03 Subd.11 h. (9) and
(14).
(b) Allowed area of all signage on each property in residential zoning districts:
Use
Total Area of all Signs unless
specified elsewhere in this
subdivision
Single-family, two-family,
8 square feet
quadraminium, and townhouses
Multiple Family
50 square feet
Non-residential Uses (Not including
50 square feet per each 10 acres
PUD and R-C districts)
(c) Allowed freestanding signage on each property in residential zoning districts:
Use
Maximum Sign
Maximum
Area of a single
Maximum Height of
number of signs
freestanding sign*
freestanding Signs
over 8 square
feet
Single-family, two-
family,
8
6
0
quadrominiums,
townhouse
Multiple Family
20
9
1
Non-residential Uses
20
9
1 per street
frontage
* sign area is subject to limitation indicated in Section 1201.03 Subd.11 h (1)(b)
(d) Allowed wall signage on each property in residential zoning districts:
Use Maximum area of wall Maximum number of wall
Single-family, two-family,
Not permitted, except as allowed by Section 1201.03
quadrominiums,
Subd.11 h (5).
townhouse
Multiple Family 10 percent of gross
1 per property
shillouette
12
Non-residential Uses 10 percent of gross
silhouette 1 per frontage
*Sign area is subject to limitation indicated in Section 1201.03 Subd. 11 h (1) (b)
(e) Signs for multiple family and non-residential uses placed along arterial or major
collector roadways may be indirectly illuminated subject to the standards in Section 1201.03 Subd. 2. i.
(f) Signs for cemetery uses may be affixed to an entry arch but may not exceed 18
feet in height.
(g) Dynamic Display. Freestanding signs for legally conforming non-residential uses in
residential districts may include dynamic displays subject to the restrictions in Section 1201.03 Subd. 11. h.
(8) of City Code and as follows:
i. Only properties with frontage along major collector or arterial roadways
are permitted to have signs with dynamic displays.
ii. The dynamic display portion of the sign shall be limited to no more than
75 percent of the allowable sign area.
iii. The displays are limited to alpha -numeric text only.
iv. The displays shall remain static for 90 minutes at a time, except as
indicated in Section 1201.03 Subd. 11 h 8 (e) of City Code.
square feet:
(h) Additional signage permitted:
i. Temporary signs in excess of eight square feet, but not greater than 32
Each residential property shall be allowed two such signs per year
and each sign may be placed on the property for no more than 15 days.
II. Each nonresidential property shall be allowed four such signs per
year and each sign may be placed on the property for no more than 15 days.
III. Not more than one sign may be placed on the property at a time.
ii. Permanent signage for subdivisions with 20 lots or more.
I. One monument sign per dedicated street entrance.
II. The maximum size sign is 32 square feet in area and the structure
size is limited to % ofthe allowed sign area.
III. The maximum height is eight feet above grade.
IV. The sign may not be illuminated.
iii. Temporary signs for new developments. Each new subdivision with three
or more lots or a multiple family or non-residential project shall be allowed two temporary signs that may
be installed at the entrance to the project.
I. The maximum size of the signs shall be 32 square feet each.
II. The signs shall not be illuminated.
III. The signs shall be removed when the construction of subdivision
improvements has ended, the principal building is occupied, or when 80 percent of the residential lots are
developed and sold, whichever occurs first.
iv. Nonresidential and multiple family uses. One permanent sign, not to
exceed three square feet in area and eight feet in height, may be installed per street access.
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V. Nonprofit athletic associations under contract pursuant to Section
902.06 of City Code for exclusive field use may display temporary sponsorship signs to be placed
on certain ball field fences on public property, provided that:
I. The nonprofit athletic association must execute an annual
license agreement with the City setting forth the conditions of approval and the duration of the
approval. The association shall pay the annual license fee as established by the City Council
from time to time. The association shall have no vested right in obtaining licenses from season
to season.
II. Signs may be displayed only in a community park, as
defined in the Shorewood Comprehensive Plan.
III. Signs may be displayed only on outfield fences, facing into
the ball field, and situated so as to minimize view of the signs from adjacent residential
properties.
IV. All signs must be professionally made, using durable
weather resistant material, and painted or factory coated dark green on the back side of the sign.
V. Signs are limited in size to no larger than 42 inches in height
and seven feet in length.
VI. There shall be a minimum spacing between signs of seven
feet.
VII. The maximum number of signs per ballfield is 15.
Vlll. The nonprofit athletic association is responsible for
maintaining the signs consistent with these requirements and in good repair. If a sign become
detached, torn, or vandalized or was installed in violation of the above, the sign will be removed
by the City.
IX. The nonprofit athletic association is responsible for any
damage to the fence on which it is displayed that is caused by installation or display of the sign.
(2) Commercial uses in R-C Residential/Commercial zoning district
(a) Not more than two permanent signs including wall and freestanding
signs, may be displayed per property.
(b) Freestanding signs shall not exceed 40 square feet in area nor eight feet
in height.
(c) Total area of signage shall be limited to a total surface area determined by taking
5% of the gross silhouette area of the front of the building, but not more than 100 square feet per
property. Where the principal building is on a corner lot, thus faces two streets, both sides may be
counted.
(d) Illuminated signs shall not be permitted in the R-C District, except that:
i. Signs located at least 100 feet from a residential district boundary
may be illuminated.
ii. Signs located nearer than 100 feet to a residential district boundary
may be illuminated, provided the sign is screened from view of residential properties.
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iii. In no case shall signs be illuminated between the hours of 9:00 p.m.
and 7:00 a.m.
iv. All illuminated signs must comply with the provisions of Section
1201.03 Subd. 2.i. of City Code.
(e) One additional permanent sign, not to exceed three square feet in area and eight
feet in height, may be installed per street access. Each sign must be located a minimum of five feet from
front and side property lines.
(f) Additional temporary signs for new development
i. Each new residential subdivision with three or more lots or new non-
residential development shall be allowed two temporary signs that shall be installed at the entrance to the
project.
ii. The maximum size of the sign shall be 32 square feet each.
iii. The sign shall not be illuminated.
iv. The sign shall be removed when the proposed principal building is
occupied or when 80 percent of the residential lots are developed and sold.
(g) Additional temporary signage. Two temporary signs in excess of eight square
feet, but not greater than 32 square feet shall be allowed per year and each sign may be placed on the
property for no more than 15 days. Not more than one sign may be placed on the property at a time.
(3) L-R Lakeshore Recreational District;
(a) Not more than two signs, one facing the lake and one facing the street,
may be displayed per property.
(b) Signs shall not be illuminated.
(c) Signs shall not exceed 20 square feet in area each nor more than eight
feet above grade.
(d) One permanent sign, not to exceed three square feet in area and eight feet in
height, may be installed on the same per public street access. Each sign must be located a minimum of
five feet from front and side property lines.
(e) Additional Signage. Two temporary signs in excess of eight square feet, but not
greater than 32 square feet shall be allowed per year. Each sign may be placed on the property for no
more than 15 days. Not more than one sign may be placed on the property at a time.
(4) Commercial Districts (C-1, C-2) and commercial uses in PUDs;
(a) The maximum area of all signs shall be no greater than 10 percent of the
gross silhouette of the front of the principal building. Where the principal building is on a
corner lot and thus faces two public streets, both sides may be counted.
(b) The maximum number of signs is three per property, of which one may
be a freestanding sign over eight square feet in area.
(c) Freestanding signs shall not exceed 20 feet in height or 80 square feet in area.
The total area of the sign structure shall not exceed one-half of the allowable copy area.
(d) Dynamic Display.
i. Freestanding signs only. Dynamic displays shall only be permitted
on freestanding signs and shall not increase the amount of sign area.
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ii. Duration of image. A dynamic display may not change more often
than once every ten minutes, except as indicated in 1201.03 Subd 11 h. 8 (e).
V. The portion of the sign with the dynamic display shall be located
at the bottom of the sign face.
vi. The dynamic display signs may occupy no more than 25 percent of
the actual copy and graphic areas and the remainder of the sign may not have the capability to
have dynamic signs even if they are not used.
vii. Only one contiguous dynamic display area is allowed on a sign
face.
(e) Additional signage permitted:
i. Window Signs. The total areas of window signs shall not exceed 10 percent
of the total area of windows as viewed from the street. The area of any window sign with lettering over 3.5
inches in height shall be subtracted from the total number and area of signs allowed for the property.
ii. Signs oriented to drive -through service lanes. Each drive -through service
lane approved by conditional use permit shall be allowed a maximum of two additional freestanding signs
not exceeding eight feet in height. The total area of the two signs shall not exceed 39 square feet, with no
one sign allowed greater than 32 square feet. One of the two signs may include a digital order confirmation
sign. Placards placed on the top or sides of the sign count towards the total area of the sign.
iii. Multi -tenant buildings or shopping centers. A multitenant building or
shopping center is permitted additional signage to the approval of a conditional use permit with an overall
site and signage plan indicating the size, location and height of all signs. A maximum of 10 percent of the
gross silhouette of each multi -tenant building with two or more business uses shall apply to the principal
building where aggregate allowable sign area is distributed among the several businesses. A shopping
center may also be allowed to have two freestanding signs identifying the shopping center.
iv. One permanent sign, not to exceed three square feet in area and eight feet
in height, maybe installed per street access. Each sign must be located a minimum of five feet from property
lines.
V. Permanent signs not to exceed 12 square inches may be installed at or
near parking spaces, not to exceed 10 per property.
vi. Temporary signs for new development. Each property shall be allowed
two temporary signs that shall be installed at the entrance to the project.
I. The maximum size of the signs shall be 32 square feet each.
II. The signs shall not be illuminated.
III. The signs shall be removed when the principal building is occupied.
vii. Additional temporary event signs. Subject to approval of a permit, each
property is allowed two temporary signs, banners, pennants, or similar devices, for up to 15 consecutive
days. No more than one such sign, banner, pennant or similar device shall be used on the site at a time. A
searchlight may be substituted for one such sign, banner, pennant or similar device, but may be used on
the property for no more than 24 consecutive hours. Searchlights may not be used between the hours of
11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
j. Non -conforming Signs.
(1) Any illegal non -conforming sign shall be removed from any property.
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(2) Any legal non -conforming sign shall not be expanded but may be continued at the size and
manner of operation existing on the date it became nonconforming. The property owner may maintain,
repair or replace the sign (not including expansion or changes to the manner of operation) unless the sign is
removed for a period of more than one year. Once the sign has been removed from the property for one
year, any subsequent request for replacement shall be subject to the regulations in this subdivision.
(3) Any legal non -conforming sign may be returned to a safe condition when the sign is
declared unsafe by the Building Official, unless the sign is destroyed by fire or other peril to the extent of 50
percent of its market value (as determined by the City Assessor) and no permit has been applied for within
180 days of when the sign is damaged.
(4) A legal nonconforming sign may not be changed to another nonconforming sign.
(5) Any nonconforming sign used as a principal use on a property must be removed prior to
development of the site for any other use.
Section 3. This Section amends Chapter 1201.03 Subd 4 (General Area and Building Size
Regulations) of the Municipal Code. Strickee language is proposed to be removed and
underline language is proposed to be added.
Chapter 1201.03 Yard Requirements
Subd. 4. General area and building size regulations.
a. Purpose. This section identifies general area and building size
requirements and exceptions to general height requirements in each zoning district.
b. Useable open space. Each multiple -family dwelling site shall contain at
least 500 square feet of useable open space as defined in § 1201.02 of this chapter for each
dwelling unit contained thereon.
Height.
(1) The building height limits established herein for districts shall not
apply to the following:
(a) Belfries;
(b) Chimneys or flues;
(c) Spires on religious institutions;
(d) Cooling towers, mechanical and air conditioning
equipment when screened from view;
(e) Cupolas and domes which that do not contain useable
space;
(f) Elevator penthouses;
(gk;) Monuments;
(hi) Parapet walls extending not more than three feet above
the limiting height of the building;
subject to Subd
M
Qk)
10 of this section;
Water towers;
Poles, towers and other structures for essential services
17
(, ) Television and radio antennas not exceeding 20 feet above
the roof. Exception: ham radio antennas over 20 feet may be allowed by conditional use permit
as provided for in § 1201.04 of this chapter, provided that:
(i) The ham radio must be licensed by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC);
permit;
area of the lot; and
(iv)
be difficult to climb.
Construction of the antenna requires a building
The antenna must be located within the buildable
The antenna must be fenced or so designed as to
(2) The requirements of Minn. Rules 8800.1200 (Criteria for
Determining Air Navigation Obstructions), as may be amended, are hereby adopted by
reference.
d. Roof equipment. No excluded roof equipment or structural element
extending beyond the limited height of a building may occupy more than 25% of the area of the
roof nor shall the equipment exceed ten feet in height unless otherwise noted.
e. Efficiency apartments. Except for elderly housing, the number of
efficiency apartments in a multiple dwelling shall not exceed 5% of the total number of
apartments.
f. Minimum floor area - commercial structures. Commercial buildings
(principal structure) having less than 1,000 square feet of floor area may only be allowed upon
approval of a conditional use permit as provided for in § 1201.04 of this chapter, provided that:
(1) The structure is built on a lot with a minimum lot area of no less
than 10,000 square feet;
(2) Adequate on -site parking is provided;
(3) The architectural character of the building is similar in character
to buildings in the surrounding area.
Section 4. This Section amends Chapter 1201.19 Subd 8. Special District Provisions of the
Municipal Code. St language is proposed to be removed and underline language is
proposed to be added.
Subd. 8. Special District provisions.
rr
a
18
(a) gogn6Ionate d tieast�feet from _a resideptW
(b) SigR6 log_aterl nearer than 100 foot ten reS+rlmn#+nresidential pFepeFtie6-.
(G) IR RE) Ga hall SigRS OR the R G Dict be
. _.�-
r�
(d) All illuminated svigrTG MW 6t nomnhi With the p ' ' ns
of § 1201.03 Sulad 2.4. of this nnrle y ,,,,
3) F= eestandfeg signs not exa€eding 40 squarer -feet -and ttOt
higher than eight feet shall he permitted in the R C; District
de. Storage - displays: with the exception of nursery stock, all
materials, supplies, merchandise or other similar matter not on display for direct sale,
rental or lease to the ultimate consumer or user shall be stored within a completely
enclosed building within the R-C District or within the confines of 100% opaque wall or
fence not less than five feet high.
The City Council or its designated representative shall evaluate the
design elements of the conditional uses under the provisions of § 1201.04.
Section 5. This Section amends Chapter 1201.24 L-R, Lakeshore Recreational District of the
Municipal Code. Seri language is proposed to be removed and underline language is
proposed to be added.
Subd. 3. Permitted accessory uses. The following are permitted accessory uses in
a L-R District:
a. Off-street parking as regulated by § 1201.03, Subd. 5 and by §
1201.24, Subd. 8h of this section;
b. One clubhouse building, not exceeding 2000 square feet of floor
area on the first floor level. This building may be used for sale of limited items used in
conjunction with boating, including fishing bait and tackle, light accessory marine -line
equipment, soft drinks, prepackaged foods, shower and meeting rooms;
C. One storage building, not exceeding 1200 square feet of floor area;
d. Gasoline dispensing equipment (boat only) subject to design
standards of the Minnesota Uniform Fire Code, approval of the State Fire Marshall, the
local Fire Marshal, the Pollution Control Agency, Department of Natural Resources and
other applicable agencies and if authorized by the City Council. Sale of gasoline is
limited to those individuals renting or leasing dock slips, or launching boats from the
subject site, or, in the case of a yacht club, to members of the yacht club;
e. Boat rental, in compliance with LMCD regulations and as
authorized by the City Council.
Signs as regulated by § 1201.03 Subd. 11. of this Code.
19
Section 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance --- adopting the Amendments to City Code, Chapter
1201, Zoning Regulations shall take effect upon publication in the City's official newspaper.
ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL of the City of Shorewood, Minnesota, thisay of
`�zj- 2024.
Z� &" &ncl
Sandie Thone, City Clerk
20
AQL4�L-
Je /nifer Labadie, Mayor