Ordinance 2002-27
ORDINANCE NO. flaJ~ - c9j'1
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF WYLIE, TEXAS, ADOPTING SIGN
REGULATIONS FOR THE CITY OF WYLIE AND THE PORTION OF ITS
EXTRA-TERRITORIAL JURISDICTION LOCATED WITHIN 500 FEET
OF THE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF STATE HIGHWAY 78; PROVIDING FOR A
PENALTY FOR THE VIOLATION OF THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING
FOR REPEALING, SAVINGS AND SEVERABILITY CLAUSES;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE OF THIS ORDINANCE; AND
PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THE CAPTION HEREOF.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wylie, Texas ("City Council") has
investigated and determined that the City of Wylie, Texas (''Wylie'') should adopt Sign
Regulations as an ordinance; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to establish an
ordinance independent and separate of the zoning ordinance so that signs may be
regulated within Wylie and in the portions of its extraterritorial jurisdiction ("ET J") located
within five-hundred (500) feet of the right-of -way of State Highway 78; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to prevent
potential traffic hazards resulting from the signs' distractions and locations;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to prevent
nuisances and invitations to vandalism;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best Interest of the citizens of Wylie to avoid
obstructions to police and citizen views as a means of crime prevention;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to avoid
obstructions to emergency services;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to create a neat
and orderly appearance throughout Wylie;
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WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to create a
gateway effect into commercial areas and neighboring residential areas;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to create a
means of safely identifying a place of business and the services available on the
premises without creating esthetic offenses and harm;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to support the
general wetfare of the citizens and to maintain the historically small town atmosphere
during a time of growth by providing for a means to communicate information related to
the residential community, civic activities and government;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to insure a
noncommercial atmosphere in residential areas;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to maintain
open spaces by setbacks;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to create
appropriate and orderly commercial and residential atmospheres;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to maintain the
privacy of the home and limit what an unwilting viewer must be exposed to relative to
the enjoyment of the investment made in the home;
WHEREAS, the City Council has investigated and determined that it will be
advantageous, beneficial and in the best interest of the citizens of Wylie to enhance
property values and psychological well-being for individuals and families;
WHEREAS, Wylie has complied with all notices and public hearings as required
by law; and
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WYLIE, TEXAS:
SECTION 1 : Findinas Incorporated. The findings set forth above are
incorporated into the body of this Ordinance as if fully set forth herein.
SECTION 2: Sian Reaulations Established. The Ordinance shall apply within the
corporate limits of Wylie, and in the portions of Wylie's ET J that are located within five-
hundred (500) feet of the right-of-way of State Highway 78. The sign regulations for
Wylie are attached hereto as Exhibit "A" and incorporated as if fully set forth herein.
SECTION 3: Penalty Provision: Any person, firm, corporation or business entity
violating this Ordinance, or as amended, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and
upon conviction thereof shall be fined a sum not exceeding Five Hundred Dollars
($500.00). Each continuing day's violation under this Ordinance shall constitute a
separate offense. The penal provisions imposed under this Ordinance shall not preclude
Wylie from filing suit to enjoin the violation. Wylie retains all legal rights and remedies
available to it pursuant to local, state and federal law.
SECTiON 4: Savinas/Repealina Clause: All provisions of any ordinance in
conflict with this Ordinance are hereby repealed, but such repeal shall not abate any
pending prosecution for violation of the repealed ordinance, nor shall the repeal prevent
a prosecution from being commenced for any violation if occurring prior to the repeal of
the ordinance. Any remaining portions of said ordinance shall remain in full force and
effect.
SECTION 5: Severability: Should any section, subsection, sentence, clause or
phrase of this Ordinance be declared unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent
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jurisdiction, it is expressly provided that any and all remaining portions of this Ordinance
shall remain in full force and effect. Wylie hereby declares that it vyould have passed
this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, clause or phrase thereof irrespective of
the fact that anyone or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses and phrases be
declared unconstitutional or invalid.
SECTION 6: Effective Date: This Ordinance shall become effective from and
after its adoption and publication as required by law the City Charter and by law.
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DULY PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WYLIE, TEXAS, on this ~ day of C~ ' 2002.
ATTESTED AND C RRECTLY
RECORDED:
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
ABERNATHY, ROEDER, BOYD &
JOPLIN, P.C.
Richard M. Abernathy
City Attorneys
Date of Publication:
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SIGN REGULATIONS
1. Intent.................................................................................................................. 1
2. Definitions ........ ................ ....1...... ........ .................. ........ ........ ................. ........... 2
3. Administration. ................. .......... ......... .......... ........ ......... ....... ............... ............. 7
A. Permits ............. .......... ........... ...... ...................... ....... .......... ................ ..... 7
B. Applications .................. ......... ....... ......................... .......... ....................... 7
C. Work Started Without a Permit ............................................................. 7
D. Permit Revocable ............ ........ .......... .................. ....... .............. .............. 8
E. Nonconforming Existing Signs ............................................................. 8
F. Signs Exempt from Permit Regulations ............................................... 8
G. Prohibited Signs.............. ........ .......... ......... ........ ........ .................. ........ 11
H. Inspection ........................ ......... ................. .......... ...... ................... ........ 12
I. Removal of Obsolete Signs................................................................. 12
J. Removal or Repair of Dilapidated or Deteriorated Signs.................. 12
K. Removal of Illegally Erected Signs..................................................... 12
L. Removal Expenses ........... ....... ................ ........ ........ ............ ............ .... 12
M. Appeals... ................................. ........... ....... ......... ....... .................. ......... 13
4. GENERAL SIGN REGULATIONS....................................................................14
A. Flags ........... ..................... ........ .......... ............ ........ ........ ............ ............ 14
B. Obscenity.... ................... .................. ............ ......... ....... ............. ............ 14
C. Obsolete Signs ............. ................ ................. ....... ........ ........................ 14
D. Maintenance of Signs .......................................................................... 14
E. Signs Held by Pedestrians ..................................................................14
F. Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements................................... 15
G. Obstructing Doors, Windows, or Fire Escapes ................................. 15
"ATTACHMENT A"
H. Placement of Advertising Matter ........................................................15
I. Signs Prohibited On or Over Public Property.................................... 15
J. Illumination of Signs ............................................................................15
K. Searchlights................... ............... ................ ........ ......... ....................... 16
5. Attached Sign Regulations ............................................................................17
A. Maximum Sign Area ............................................................................. 17
B. Illumination of Attached Signs............................................................ 17
C. Window Signs.......... .......... ........ ............ ............ ........ .............. ........ ..... 17
D. Awning Signs ................ .................. ............. ......... ...... ......................... 18
E. Projecting Signs.... ..... .......... ....... .................... ....... ......... ..................... 18
F. Marquee Signs............................................ ....... ......... ............... ........... 18
G. Canopy Sign.. ............. ......... ........ .................... ....... ......... ..................... 19
6. Monument Sign Regulations............. ........ ........... .......... ....... .........................20
A. Properties with Multiple Tenants ........................................................ 20
B. Properties with Single Tenants........................................................... 20
C. Gasoline Pricing Signs ........................................................................ 21
D. Material Regu lations ....... ........ .................... ............... ................. ......... 21
E. Illumination .... ............ ................. ...................... ....... ........... .................. 21
F. Model Home Signs ............................................................................... 21
7. Other types of Signs... ...... .................................. ......... ....... ..................... ....... 23
A. Menu Board Signs..... ......... ........ ..................... ....... .......... .................... 23
B. Subdivision Entry Signs ...................................................................... 23
C. Directory Signs...... ........... ......... ............... .......... ....... ....................... .... 23
D. Institutional Signs ....... .......... ....... ................. ................ ....................... 24
E. Pole Signs .............. ............ ........ ................ ........ ....... .............. .............. 24
8. Tempqrary Sign Regulations .........................................................................25
A. Development Signs .......... ........ .................. ........ ....... ................. .......... 25
B. Real Estate Sign ............ ................. ............. ........ ........ ......................... 25
C. Promotional Signage . ......... ........ .................... ....... .......... ................ .... 25
9. SIGNS LOCATED IN THE CITY RIGHT-OF-WAy........................................... 27
A. Perm its.. .................. ........... ........ ............ ............ ........ ............. .............. 27
B. Time Limitations............ ......... ...... ................. ....... ........ ........................ 27
C. Location. ................ ................................. .......... ....... .............. ............... 27
D. Size ..... ............ ............. ........... ...... ................... ........ .......... .................... 27
E. Height ........ ....................... ................. .......... ......... ....... ................. .........27
F. Number of Signs ........ .......... ....... ................... ....... ........ ....................... 27
G. Sign Placement Vehicles ..................................................................... 28
H. Tampering with Permit Decals ............................................................ 28
I. Temporary Banners and Streamers in the Right-of-Way.................. 28
J. Removal of Unpermitted Signs ........................................................... 28
SIGN REGULATIONS
1. INTENT
A. Signs are an important component of the urban built environment, providing
important information, and directions to community residents and visitors.
However:
1. The uncontrolled proliferation of signs is hazardous to users of streets and
highways within the City of Wylie and will adversely affect the safety and
efficiency of the City's transportation network; and
2. Unless the location, number, setback, lighting, and size of signs are
regulated, the scattering of the signs throughout the City would be detrimental
to the preservation of scenic resources and so to the economic base of the
City; and
3. The proliferation of signs in the City has an adverse affect on adjacent
property values; and
4. The orderly and uniform regulation of signs is a substantial factor in guiding
the attractive and aesthetic development of properties in accordance with the
comprehensive plan and thereby avoiding detrimental impacts of signs on the
appearance of the City.
B. Therefore It is the intent of these regulations:
1 . To protect the safety and efficiency of the City's transportation network by
reducing the confusion or distraction to motorists and enhancing the
motorist's ability to see pedestrians, obstacles, other vehicles, and traffic
signs;
2. To preserve, protect, and enhance areas of historical, architectural, cultural,
aesthetic, and economic value regardless of whether they are natural or
manmade;
3. To protect the value of adjacent and nearby properties, in particular,
residentially zoned properties from the impact of lighting, size, height,
mOvdment, and location of signs;
4. To enhance the image of the City which is conveyed to tourists and visitors by
controlling the location, number, and size of signs;
5. To integrate sign regulations more effectively with other regulations by
establishing regulations for setbacks, height, and spacing to allow for lighting,
ventilation, and preservation of views in a manner consistent with land uses in
the various zoning districts; and
6. To preserve and enhance the appearance of the City and the public interest
in aesthetics, and to control and reduce visual clutter and blight.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 1
2. DEFINITIONS
Alter means to change the size, shape or outline, or type of sign or to change the
electrical lighting, except for the replacement of lamps not brighter than the original or
the replacement of a surface panel.
Attach means to stick, tack, nail or otherwise affix a sign to any object; to paint, stencil,
write, or otherwise mark on an object.
Awning means an architectural projection that provides weather protection, identity and
decoration, and is supported by the building to which it is attached. It is composed of a
lightweight rigid or retractable skeleton structure over which a thin cover is attached
which may be of fabric or other materials, and may be illuminated.
Building means a structure which has a roof supported by columns, wall or air for the
shelter, support, or enclosure of persons, animal or chattel.
Building Official means the building official for the City of Wylie or his/her designee.
Canopy means a roof-like structure which shelters a use such as, but not restricted to,
a gasoline pump island, and is supported by either one or more columns or by the
building to which it is accessory to and is open on two or more sides.
Dilapidated or deteriorated condition means any sign:
A. Where elements of the surface or background can be seen as viewed from
the normal viewing distance (intended viewing distance), to have portions of
the finished material or paint flaked, broken off, or missing, or otherwise not in
harmony with the rest of the surface; or
B. Where the structural support or frame or sign panels are visibly bent, broken,
dented, or torn as to constitute an unsightly, hazardous or harmful condition;
or
C. Where the sign, or its elements, are twisted or leaning or at angles other than
those at which it was originally erected (such as may result from being blown
or the failure of a structural support); or
D. Where the message or wording can no longer be clearly read by a person
under normal viewing conditions; or
E. Where the sign or its elements are not in compliance with the regulations of
the National Electrical Code and/or the Uniform Building Code currently
adopted by the City.
Erect means to build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix, and shall also
include the painting of signs on the exterior surface of a building or structure.
Facing or surface means the surface of the sign upon, against or through which the
message is displayed or illustrated on the sign.
Flag means a piece of cloth, canvas, or other light fabric, usually rectangular in shape,
containing a distinctive design or message which is used as a symbol or to signal or
attract attention.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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Illuminated sign means any sign which has characters, letters, figures, or designs
illuminated by electric lights, luminous tubes or other means that are specifically placed
to draw attention to, or to provide night time viewing of, the subject matter on the sign
face.
Incombustible material means any material which will not ignite at or below a
temperature of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, and will not continue to burn or glow at that
temperature.
Logo means any design or insignia of a company or product which is commonly used in
advertising to identify that company or product.
Pennant means any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether or not
containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire or string, usually in a
series, designed to move in the wind.
Premises means a lot or unplatted tract, or a combination of contiguous lots and/or
unplatted tracts of land where the lot, tract, or combination of lots and/or tracts is under
single ownership and is reflected in the plat record of the City.
Public Right-of-Way means a dedicated road or street including the easement for that
road or street.
Roof means any exterior surface of a structure that has a slope of less than 60 degrees
and shall also include the top most portion of any structure.
Searchlight means an apparatus capable of projecting a beam or beams of light in
excess of 1 million peak candlepower.
Sight Visibility Triangle means where one street intersects with another, the triangular
area formed by extending two (2) curb lines a distance of forty-five (45) feet from their
point of intersection, and connecting these points with an imaginary line, thereby making
a triangle. If there are no curbs existing, the triangular area shall be formed by
extending the property lines a distance of thirty (30) feet from their point of intersection
and connecting these points with an imaginary line thereby making a triangle. Where a
street intersects with an alley or driveway, the "sight visibility triangle" is the triangular
area formed by measuring eight (8) feet to a point along the property lines and adjoining
said points to form the hypotenuse of the triangle.
Sign means any device, flag, banner, light, figure, picture, letter word, message,
symbol, plaque, or poster visible from outside the lot on which it is located and designed
to inform or attract the attention of persons not on that lot.
Sign area means the actual area of a face of the sign, unless the sign is not of a regular
(square, rectangle, triangle, circle) shape. In the case of an irregularly-shaped sign, the
entire area within a single continuous perimeter forming the most applicable single
regular shape enclosing the extreme limits of each sign shall be the "gross surface
area." In the event two or more signs share a single structure, each sign or panel may
be considered separately for square footage purposes, except that the combined
footage of such signs cannot exceed the total square footage allowed for the sign.
Sign, Attached means any sign attached to, applied on, or supported by, any part of a
building (such as a wall, roof, window, canopy, awning, arcade, or marquee) which
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 3
encloses or covers usable space. Neon tubing attached directly to a wall surface shall
be considered a "wall sign" when forming a border for the subject matter, or when
directing attention to the subject matter or when forming letters, logos, or pictorial
designs.
Sign, Banner means a temporary sign composed of cloth, plastic, paper, canvas or
other light fabric.
Sign, Changeable Message means a sign whose face is designed and constructed in
a manner capable of changing messages through a system of removable characters or
panels attached to the face of the sign or changed by electronic means.
Sign, Development means a temporary on-site sign providing identification or
information pertaining to a residential or commercial development and may include the
builder, property owner, architect, contractor, engineer, landscape architect, decorator,
or mortgagee, within that development, but shall not include a subdivision marketing
sign.
Sign, Directional means anyon-site sign to direct the public to entrances, exits and
services located on the property on which the sign is located.
Sign, Directory means any sign listing occupants within shopping centers, industrial
sites, retail districts, office districts and commercial sites.
Sign, Garage sale means any temporary, on-site Promotional Sign for the sale of
personal household goods in a residential zoning district or on the property of a
nonprofit organization.
Sign, Incidental means any sign containing information incidental to the operation of
the business such as but not limited to hours of operation, accepted credit cards and
parking information.
Sign, Inflatable means any hollow sign expanded or enlarged by the use of air or gas.
Sign, Menu Board means a permanent on-site sign that displays a menu and pricing
for food services and may include an audible speaker and microphone integral to the
sign.
Sign, Model Home means any sign identifying a new home, either furnished or
unfurnished, as being a builder's or contractor's model open to the public for inspection.
Sign, Movement Control means a sign providing direction or traffic flow information for
persons or vehictes located the same premises as the sign. Movement Control Signs
shall not advertise or otherwise draw attention to the premises, an individual, business,
commodity, service, activity or product.
Sign, Municipally-Owned means any sign that identifies a park, entrance to the City,
place of interest within the City, any City sponsored event or any municipally-owned
facility and is erected by or at the direction of a City official. A municipally-owned sign
does not include traffic or street identification signs.
Sign, Monument means any detached sign made from masonry, concrete materials,
wood or plastic provided that a masonry or metal base is incorporated into the sign, with
no separation between the base of the sign and grade.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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Sign, Obsolete means any sign that no longer serves a bona fide use or purpose.
Sign, Off-Premise means a sign displaying advertising copy that pertains to a
business, person, organization, activity, event, place, service or product not principally
located or primarily manufactured or sold on the lot on which the sign is located.
Sign, Pole means any sign erected on a vertical framework consisting of one or more
uprights supported by the ground and where there is a physical separation between the
base of the sign and the ground.
Sign, Political means a temporary sign relating to the election of a person to public
office, relating to a political party, or relating to a matter or measure to be voted on at an
election called by a public body.
Sign, Portable means a sign that is not securely connected to the ground in such a way
that it cannot easily be moved from one location to another and is not a vehicular sign.
Sign, Promotional means any type of temporary sign used for special promotions
including, but not limited to, grand openings, anniversary celebrations, sales, and other
such events. Promotional signs include, but are not limited to, banners, pennants,
streamers, balloons, flags, bunting, inflatable signs and other similar signs.
Sign, Protective means signs that identify or warn of any security devices located on
the premises, including guard dogs.
Sign, Reader board means any sign comprised of changeable letters that allows a
change of sign copy by adding or removing letters. The sign copy shall conform to the
category use of the sign allowed by this Ordinance.
Sign, Real Estate means anyon-site temporary sign pertaining to the sale or rental of
property and advertising property only for the use for which it is legally zoned.
Sign, Subdivision means a sign that identifies the name of the subdivision only.
Sign, Window means any sign, banner, poster or display located on the internal or
external surface of the window of any establishment for the purpose of advertising
services, products or sales available within such establishment or which announces the
opening of such establishment.
Sign Support means any pole, post, strut, cable or other structural fixture or framework
necessary to hold and secure a sign, providing that said fixture or framework is not
imprinted with any picture, symbol or word using characters in excess of one inch (1")
in height, nor is internally or decoratively illuminated.
Sign, Vehicular means any sign on a vehicle parked temporarily, incidental to its
principal use for transportation. This definition shall not include signs being transported
to a site for permanent erection.
Sign Setback means the horizontal distance between a sign and the front or side
property line, as measured from that part of the sign, including its extremities and
supports, nearest to any point on any imaginary vertical plane projecting vertically from
the front or side property line.
Wall means any exterior surface of a structure that has a slope of 60 degrees or more.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 5
Zoning District, Non-Residential means any zoning district designated by the Zoning
Ordinance of the City of Wylie as NS, CR, BP, CC, I, PO, FP, DTH.
Zoning District, Residential means any zoning district designated by the Zoning
Ordinance of the City of Wylie as AG/28, SF-1A/26, SF-30/24, SF-20/21, SF-10/19, SF-
8.5/17, TH/15, MF, MH.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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3. ADMINISTRATION
The provisions of this Ordinance shall be administered by the Building Official.
A. Permits
1. No sign shall be erected, constructed, relocated, altered, repaired or
maintained except as provided in this Ordinance until a permit for such has
been issued by the City of Wylie and the fee paid, except as otherwise
provided in this Ordinance. Permit fees are contained in Appendix A of the
Code of Ordinances.
2. A permit for a sign, shall expire if the work is not commenced within ninety
(90) days from the date of such permit.
3. Electrical permit: Where signs contain electrical wiring and connections,
an electrical permit must also be obtained in addition to the permit for the
sign. No sign shall be erected in violation of the City's electrical code.
4. Not to Issue to Persons Previously Failing to Pay Fees: The City shall
not issue a permit under the provisions of this Ordinance to any person,
business, entity, organization or activity who has previously failed or refused
to pay any fees or costs assessed against him under the provisions of this
Ordinance.
5. Easements: No sign shall be located in any easement other than a
landscape easement.
B. Applications
All applications for permits shall include each of the following:
1. A completed permit application.
2. A drawing of the proposed sign and all existing signs maintained on the lot
and visible from the right-of-way.
3. A drawing of the lot plan or building facade indicating the proposed location
of the sign, and specifications.
C. Work Started Without a Permit
No sign requiring a permit may be erected or installed without first having a
permit. If any work for which a permit is required by this Ordinance has been
commenced without first obtaining a permit the following shall apply:
1. Investigation. A special investigation to determine compliance shall be
made before a permit may be issued for the work.
2. Investigation Fee. In addition to the permit fee, an investigation fee shall be
collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The
investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by
this City. The payment of the investigation fee shall not exempt any person
from compliance with all other provisions of this Ordinance nor from any
other penalty prescribed by law.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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D. Permit Revocable
1. The City may suspend or revoke any permit issued under the provisions of
this Ordinance whenever it shall be determined that the permit is issued:
a. in error; or
b. on the basis of incorrect or false information supplied; or
c. in violation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance; or
d. in violation any other Ordinance of this City or laws of this State or the
Federal government.
2. The suspension or revocation shall be effective when communicated in
writing to the person to whom the permit is issued, the sign owner, or to the
property owner upon who's property the sign is located.
3. Any signs installed or existing under a revoked permit shall be removed by
the permit holder, sign owner, or property owner within ten (10) days of
written notice of the revocation.
E. Nonconforming Existing Signs
Every sign lawfully in existence on the date of passage of this Ordinance may be
repaired without applying for a permit hereunder, but no such sign or sign facing
shall be altered or moved unless a permit be issued pursuant to the provisions of
this Ordinance. In the case where a sign facing is being replaced for the same
business, a permit is not required. Temporary permits granted prior to the
passage of this Ordinance shall be renewed only if the applicant complies with all
provisions of this Ordinance.
F. Signs Exempt from Permit Regulations
A permit shall not be required for the following signs, provided however, the signs
shall otherwise comply with all other applicable sections of this Ordinance.
1 . Nameplates
Nameplates, or signs reflecting the name of a building or structure (Le., a
fence) or the name of the company that built or designed the building or
structure, not exceeding one square foot in area.
2. Building Identification/Memorial
Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and date of erection, when cut
into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other
incombustible materials.
, 3. Traffic
Traffic or street signs, legal notices, railroad crossing signs, danger, and
emergency, temporary or non-advertising signs as may be approved by the
City Councilor the City Manager or his authorized representative.
4. Signs Inside a Building
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 8
Signs located inside a building and which are not displayed so as to be
visible from outside the building. Signs located in covered mall buildings
shall comply with the current building code and electrical code.
5. Changeable Copy
Copy change only for previously permitted signs designed to provide a
changeable copy area.
6. Movement Control Signs
Movement Control Signs may be erected at any occupancy or any lot, other
than single family or duplex premises, may be attached or detached and
may be erected without limits as to number; provided that such signs shall
comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance. Movement
Control Signs shall be premise signs only. The occupant of a premise who
erects a Movement Control Sign shall comply with the following regulations:
a. Each sign must not exceed five (5) square feet in effective area.
b. If a sign is an attached sign, as defined, the words must not exceed six
inches (6") in height.
c. Each sign must convey a bona fide message which directs vehicular or
pedestrian movement within or onto the lot on which the sign is
located.
7. Protective Signs
The occupant of a premise may erect a maximum of two (2) Protective
Signs, in accordance with the following regulations:
a. Each sign must not exceed six (6) square feet in effective area.
b. Detached signs must not exceed three feet (3') in height.
8. Government Signs
Flags, insignia, legal notices, or informational, directional or traffic signs
which are legally required or necessary to the essential functions of
government agencies and decorative displays for holidays or public
demonstrations which do not contain advertising and are not used as such.
9. Holiday Lights and Decorations
Temporary lights and holiday decorations displayed ninety (90) days or less
shan be exempt from the terms of this ordinance.
10. Non-Illuminated Political Signs
a. With the permission of the property owner or tenant, non-illuminated
political signs may be erected in any zoning district with no limitation as
to their number. On lots where a sidewalk exists within the street right-
of-way, signs shall be located between the sidewalk and the structure -
but no closer than three feet (3') from the sidewalk. On lots where no
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 9
sidewalk exists within the street right-of-way, the sign shall be located
at least ten feet (10') from the edge of the street.
b. Political Signs that are located on developed residential property or in
a developed subdivision zoned Residential shall not exceed nine (9)
square feet in effective area per side.
c. Signs erected on property zoned Non-Residential or undeveloped
residentially zoned property shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet
in effective area per side.
d. Political Signs shall not exceed six feet (6') in height.
e. Political Signs shall not be placed within the public right-of-way (except
as allowed in Section 9).
f. The candidate, his campaign treasurer or assistant campaign treasurer
or the campaign treasurer of a political committee shall be responsible
for the erection and removal of the Political Signs or advertisements
and for compliance with the provisions of this Ordinance and the laws
of the State of Texas.
g. Political Signs shall not be affixed to utility poles or official signs (e.g.
street signs or speed limit signs).
h. Political Signs shall not be erected earlier than thirty (30) days prior to
the election that the sign pertains and must be removed within fourteen
(14) days after the election.
11. Special Event or Public Announcement Signs
Signs providing public information concerning special events, bazaars,
rallies, or other similar activities sponsored by non-profit organizations
including charitable, religious, philanthropic, educational, or civic institutions
with the following regulations:
a. Signs must be located on private property and the organization must
have permission from the property owner to place the sign on their
property. (Signs of this type can be off-premise signs and are exempt
from Section 4 (h)).
b. The maximum sign area is thirty-two (32) square feet.
c. The maximum height is six feet (6').
d. A maximum of six (6) off-premise signs in the City advertising the non-
profit organization function.
e. The advertised function must occur within the corporate limits of the
City of Wylie, its ET J, or an adjacent municipality and be sponsored by
a non-profit organization located within the City of Wylie.
f. Signs shall not be located on a residential premise.
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G. Prohibited Signs
Any sign which is not specifically permitted by this Ordinance shall be prohibited.
The following types of signs are expressly prohibited within the City of Wylie:
1. Signs that imitate traffic signs or emergency signs. Signs may not contain
any combination of forms, words, colors, or lights, which imitate standard
public traffic regulatory, emergency signs, or signals.
2. Portable signs unless specifically allowed by this ordinance (see Section 4.
E.).
3. Signs erected in violation of any ordinance adopted by the City of Wylie or
any state or federal law. (e.g. traffic visibility requirements, zoning, building
code, or electrical code).
4. Signs attached to, painted or maintained upon any tree or public utility pole
or public utility structure.
5. Signs attached to or painted on any sidewalk, curb, gutter, or street (except
street address numbers).
6. Signs that move, flash light intermittently, change color or revolve, unless
specifically allowed in this Ordinance.
7. Pole signs and flag poles unless specifically allowed by this Ordinance (see
Sections 4. A., 7. E. and 8. A.).
8. Off-Premise signs (except for signs allowed under Sections 3. F. 9. and 11.).
9. Signs attached to or painted on the outside of a fence, wall or railing (except
for signs allowed under Section 3. F. 1.).
Exception: Signs identifying the manufacturer of a fence or similar product,
provided that the sign does not exceed 1 Y2 square feet.
10. Signs located within a street median, e.g. subdivision signs.
11. Signs illuminated to an intensity to cause glare or brightness to a degree
that could constitute a safety hazard or nuisance.
12. Signs attached to a vehicle advertising the sale of the vehicle where the
vehicle is parked in such a way that the sign informs or attracts the attention
of persons using the public right-of-way. Vehicles legally parked at one
location, with for sale signs visible from the right-of-way for two (2) hours or
more, shall be prima facie evidence of non-compliance with this Section.
Exception: A maximum of two (2) vehicles may be parked at the vehicle
owner's residence, or on the street adjacent to the residence
advertising, the sale of the vehicles provided that the vehicles
are registered to the person residing at the residence.
13. Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and/or trailers that are parked on a
public right-of-way, public property, or private property so as to be visible
from a public right-of-way where the apparent purpose is to advertise a
product or direct people to a business or activity located on the same or
nearby property shall be prohibited. However, this is not in any way
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 11
intended to prohibit signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and trailers, such
as lettering on motor vehicles, where the sign is incidental to the primary use
of the vehicle or trailer.
H. Inspection
The City may inspect annually, or at such other times as he deems necessary,
each sign regulated by this Ordinance for the purpose of ascertaining whether
the same complies with provisions of this Ordinance, is secure or insecure,
whether it still serves a useful purpose, and whether it is in need of removal or
repair.
I. Removal of Obsolete Signs
Any sign which the City determines no longer serves a bona fide use or does not
conform to this Ordinance shall be removed by the owner, agent or person
having the beneficial use of the land, buildings or structure upon which the sign is
located within ten (10) days atter written notification to do so from the City.
J. Removal or Repair of Dilapidated or Deteriorated Signs
If the City shall determine that any sign exists in a dilapidated or deteriorated
condition, or is a menace to the public, he shall give written notice to the person
or persons responsible for the sign. The permit holder, owner, agent or person
having the beneficial use of the premises shall remove or repair the sign within
ten (10) days atter the notice. The City may remove or have removed, without
notice, and assess the owner for the costs, any sign which is an immediate peril
to persons or property.
K. Removal of Illegally Erected Signs
Any temporary sign that is erected, constructed or otherwise displayed, which the
City determines to be in violation of this Ordinance, may be removed by City
personnel. Any such sign removed by City personnel may be held for a period of
seventy-two (72) hours and upon expiration of the time may be disposed. The
City is not required to notify the permit holder or owner of the sign that it has
been picked up or that disposal of the sign is imminent.
For permanent signs, the sign must be removed by the permit holder, owner of
the sign, or owner of the property on which the sign is located within a
reasonable time period as determined by the City. Upon failure to comply with
the notice or to file an appeal of the decision in accordance with this Ordinance,
the City is authorized to cause the removal of the sign and assess the permit
holder, owner of the sign and/or owner of the property for the costs of removal.
L. Removal Expenses
Any sign required to be removed by the City, shall be removed by the permit
holder, sign owner, or property owner within ten (10) days atter written
notification to do so. Upon failure to comply with the notice, the City is may enter
upon the property upon which the sign is located, and to cause the removal of
the sign. The owner of the land, building or structure to which the sign is attached
and upon which it is erected and the owner of the sign and the holder of the sign
permit are jointly and severally liable for any expense incident to removal.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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M. Appeals
Appeals to the provisions of this Ordinance shall be heard by the Zoning Board of
Adjustment. A simple majority vote of the board in favor of the variance will be
required to approve any variance request. No proof of hardship is required in
order for the Zoning Board of Adjustment to grant any variance. If considering a
variance request, the Zoning Board of Adjustment shall also comply with the
following:
1. The Board shall consider as criteria for granting a variance such factors as
the type of sign, the location, existence of signs in the general area, and
such other factors as they deem pertinent.
2. No variance shall be granted by the Board if the same conflicts with the spirit
of this Ordinance, which is one of providing public safety, adequate lighting
provisions, open space and air, conservation of land, protection of property
values, and encouraging the highest and best use of the land.
3. In considering the request for variation to regulations of this Ordinance, the
Zoning Board of Adjustment shall consider, but not be limited to,
a. the degree of variance,
b. the reason for variance requested,
c. the location of the variance request,
d. the duration of the requested variance,
e. the effect on public safety,
f. the protection of neighborhood property,
g. the degree of property hardship or injustice involved, and
h. the effect of the variance on the stated purposes for regulating signs
with the City.
4. The decision of the Zoning Board of Adjustment shall be final.
5. A variance from this Ordinance is valid only if a permit is secured within
ninety (90) days from the date of the Board's decision.
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4. GENERAL SIGN REGULATIONS
A. Flags
All flags shall conform to the following regulations:
1. Nothing in this Ordinance shall be construed to prevent the display of the
United States, Texas, County or Wylie flag. No permit or permit fee is
required.
2. Businesses may erect one corporate flag and flag pole, per location, for a
bona fide company or corporate office located within the City of Wylie. A
sign permit and permit fee is required.
a. Setback Requirements - Flag poles must be located at least 15 feet
from any property line.
b. Maximum Height
i. Residential - Twenty-five feet (25')
ii. Commercial - Thirty-five feet (35')
3. No flag or flag pole may be located within any easement.
B. Obscenity
No person shall display on any sign any obscene or indecent matter as defined
by the Texas Penal Code, or any matter soliciting or promoting unlawful conduct.
Any sign which does contain any obscene indecent or immoral matter must be
removed or the obscene, indecent or immoral matter must be removed within
twenty-four (24) hours of notice. The owner or person in control of the property
on which the sign is located shall be responsible for compliance with this Section.
C. Obsolete Signs
All signs relating to a product no longer available for purchase by the public and
all signs relating to a business which has closed or moved away shall be
removed or the advertising copy shall be removed. Painted wall signs shall be
painted over with a color that resembles or matches the wall and does not allow
the sign message to be visible after overpainting. The owner of the property on
which the sign is located shall be responsible to remove the sign within thirty (30)
days of obsolescence.
D. Maintenance of Signs
All signs shall be maintained in good condition. Signs which are damaged in any
way, rusty or have peeling paint do not meet minimum maintenance criteria and
shall be brought into compliance, or the sign must be removed, no later than the
tenth (10th) day after written notice of such violation is sent to the property owner
via certified mail. The owner of the property on which the sign is located shall be
responsible for compliance with this subsection.
E. Signs Held by Pedestrians
Any sign held or carried by a person must be located at least four feet (4') from
the street pavement of any right-of-way.
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F. Wind Pressure and Dead Load Requirements
All signs shall be designed and constructed to withstand a wind pressure of not
less than 30 pounds per square foot of area, and shall be constructed to receive
dead loads as required by the building code of the City of Wylie.
G. Obstructtng Doors, Windows, or Fire Escapes
It shall be unlawful to erect, relocate, or maintain a sign in any manner that
prevents free ingress to or egress from any door, window or fire escape, or to
attach any sign to a standpipe or fire escape.
H. Placement of Advertising Matter
1. No person shall place on or suspend from any building, light fixture, pole,
structure, sidewalk, parkway, driveway or parking area, any goods, wares,
merchandise or other advertising object or structure for the purpose of
advertising such items other than a sign, as defined, regulated and
prescribed by this Ordinance, except as otherwise allowed by this Ordinance
or another ordinance.
2. No person, firm, corporation or association of persons shall paste, stick,
tack, nail or otherwise place any advertisement, handbill, placard, printed,
pictured or written matter or thing for political advertising or other advertising
purposes upon any fence, railing, sidewalk or public telephone, electric or
other utility pole, or any other public property, including trees thereon or to
knowingly cause or to permit the same to be done for his benefit.
3. It shall be unlawful for any person to scatter or throw any handbills, circulars,
cards, tear sheets or any other advertising device of any description, along
or upon any street or sidewalk in the City of Wylie.
I. Signs Prohibited On or Over Public Property
No portion of any sign shall be erected on or over public property, or in the right-
of-way of any thoroughfare within the City, unless the same is erected by the
City, or with the permission of the City for public purposes, except for Projecting
Signs in the Downtown Historic District meeting regulations in Section 5. E or as
provided by Section 9.
J. Illumination of Signs
1. No sign shall be illuminated to such an intensity or in such a manner as to
cause a glare or brightness to a degree that it constitutes a hazard or
nuisance.
2. Moving, flashing, changing color, beacons, revolving or similarly constructed
signs shall not be allowed, except for electronic signs showing time and
temperatu re.
3. Sign illumination may only alternate on and off at a rate equal to or less than
twice an hour, excluding time and temperature signs.
4. A sign in a residential district, where allowed by this Ordinance, may be
illuminated. Any illumination shall be located so as not to produce intense
glare or direct illumination across the bounding property line. Internal
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 15
illumination shall not exceed 40 watts per every 25 square feet or any
portion thereof of the sign face.
K. Searchlights
Searchlights may be permitted in accordance with any applicable regulations. A
permit for use of an advertising searchlight may be granted under the following
additional regulations:
1. A searchlight shall be located a minimum distance of 50 feet from a public
right-of-way and positioned so as to project all beams at a minimum angle of
30 degrees from grade level.
2. The maximum light intensity generated by searchlights on any premises
may not exceed a total of 1.6 million foot candlepower. No more than four
beams of light may be projected from any premises.
3. All searchlights must be designed and maintained so as to prevent beam
rays of light from being directed at any portion of the rights-of-way or
adjoining property, and no light shall be of such intensity or brilliance to
cause glare to or impair the vision of the driver of any vehicle, or to create
greater than 0.5 foot candles at 4 feet height at the property line.
4. No advertising searchlight may be operated between the hours of 11 :00
p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
5. No advertising searchlight may be operated on a premises for more than
seven consecutive days. No permit for an advertising searchlight may be
issued for any business entity for which a permit has been issued for a
searchlight on the same premises within the six months preceding the date
of the permit application.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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5. ATTACHED SIGN REGULATIONS
Unless otherwise specifically provided, the regulations set forth in this Section shall be
applicable to all attached signs that are allowed under this Ordinance. All signs and
their words shall be mounted parallel to the building surface to which they are attached,
and shall project no more than twelve inches (12") from that surface, except for
Projecting and Marquee signs as allowed in Sections 5. E., and 5. F. Wall signs shall
not extend above the wall or building surface to which the sign is attached. Banner
signs shall not be utilized as permanent wall signs.
A. Maximum Sign Area
1. Attached signs shall not exceed the following area schedules:
a. An attached sign located at a height of thirty-six feet (36') or less is
limited to 0.75 square feet of sign area for each lineal foot of building
frontage for a single tenant building, or lease space frontage in a
multiple tenant building, not to exceed three hundred (300) square feet.
b. An attached sign located above a height of thirty-six feet (36') shall be
permitted an increase in maximum effective area. Such increases
shall not exceed four (4) square feet in effective area for each
additional one foot (1 ') of height above thirty-six feet (36') measured
from the base of the sign. Signs may be increased hereunder to a
maximum size of four hundred (400) square feet.
c. Attached signs may be located on any facade except for signs located
on the side or rear wall of a building where the sign would face an
adjacent residential zoning district. The sum of the effective area of all
attached signs shall not exceed the allowable effective area specified
in paragraphs a. or b. above, whichever paragraph is applicable.
B. Illumination of Attached Signs
Attached Signs may only be illuminated utilizing internal lighting. Exterior letters
with exposed neon lighting are allowed.
C. Window Signs
Window signs do not require a permit or a permit fee. Window Signs must meet
the following regulations.
1. Window Signs must not obscure more than 25 percent of the window area
per facade.
2. The sign area shall be measured by drawing a rectangular or square box
around the sign elements, then multiplying the height by the width. For
signs whose shape is irregular, the box must enclose all elements of the
sign.
3. No illuminated Window Signs shall be allowed within two feet of the window
surface, except for open / closed signs.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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D. Awning Signs
Awning Sign means any awning displaying a business name or logo. Awning
Signs must meet the following regulations.
1. An Awning may extend the full length of the wall of the building to which it is
attached and shall be no more than six feet in height and shall not be placed
less than 8 feet above the sidewalk.
2. Artwork or copy on Awning Signs shall be limited to a business name and/or
logo.
3. The artwork or copy for an Awning Sign shall not exceed 20 percent of the
area of the Awning and shall extend for no more than 60 percent of the
length of the Awning.
E. Projecting Signs
Projecting Signs means any sign, except an Awning, which projects
perpendicularly from a building and which has one end attached to a building or
other permanent structure. Projecting Signs must meet the following regulations.
1. Allowed only in the Downtown Historic District (DTH)
2. The maximum sign area for a Projecting Sign is 4 square feet per sign face.
Projecting Signs may not project more than 3 feet, measured from the
building face and shall not be closer than two feet from the back of the curb
line.
3. The height of the Projecting Sign must be at least 12 feet above the
sidewalk.
4. Projecting Signs shall be compatible in design, shape, and material with the
architectural and historic character of the building they project from.
F. Marquee Signs
Marquee Sign means any permanent structure which is attached to and
supported by a building and which projects outward from the building and
contains lettering or graphics which convey a message. Marquee Signs must
meet the following regulations.
1. Allowed only in the Downtown Historic District (DTH).
2. Marquee Signs shall be built as an integral part of the marquee and shall be
constructed of incombustible material.
3. Marquee Signs shall be limited to 50 percent of the area of the vertical
surface of each face of the marquee.
4. The marquee on which Marquee Signs are attached shall not have a vertical
height of more than six feet nor exceed 75 percent of the width of the
building or store frontage.
5. The Marquee shall be at least 8 feet above the sidewalk.
6. Marquee Signs may be illuminated.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 18
7. Marquee Signs shall be compatible in design, shape, and material with the
architectural and historic character of the building.
G. Canopy Sign
Canopy Sign means any canopy displaying a business name or logo. Canopy
Signs must meet the following regulations.
1. A Canopy Sign may be attached to, or be an integral part of the face of a
canopy.
2. A Canopy Sign may consist of only the name and/or logo of the business at
the location of the canopy.
3. The artwork or copy on a Canopy Sign shall not exceed ten percent of the
face of the canopy, or a maximum of twenty-five (25) square feet, whichever
is greater.
4. An illuminated stripe may be incorporated into a canopy. The stripe may
extend along the entire length of the face of the canopy. The width or
thickness of the stripe shall be limited to one-third of the vertical dimension
of the face of the canopy. The internal illumination of a canopy is limited to
the portions of the canopy face on which a sign or stripe is permitted.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
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6. MONUMENT SIGN REGULATIONS
All Monument Signs shall be compatible with the colors and materials of the building
that is located on the same lot as the sign. Sculpted aluminum sign panels will be
allowed; however, plastic panel signs are not allowed to be utilized on Monument Signs.
Additional monument sign regulations are as follows:
A. Properties with Multiple Tenants
Shopping centers and office buildings with multiple tenants are permitted to erect
Monument Signs that comply with the following regulations:
1. Maximum size - 150 square feet
2. Maximum height - 10 feet measured from grade.
3. Setbacks
a. 15 feet from street right-of-way.
b. 40 feet from property lines other than those property lines fronting the
street right-of-way.
c. 250 feet from any other Monument Sign on the same property,
measured along the right-of-way.
4. Changeable Message Signs. Monument Signs may include a maximum
area of thirty-two (32) square feet that incorporates changeable messages
or lettering, as defined, in the sign face. Such messages shall not blink,
flash, scroll or change more than once per hour with the exception of signs
that only display the time and temperature.
B. Properties with Single Tenants
Businesses located on individually platted land including individual pad sites
within a shopping center are permitted to erect Monument Signs that comply with
the following regulations:
1 . Maximum size - 90 square feet
2. Maximum height - 10 feet
3. Setbacks
a. 15 feet from street right-of-way.
b. 40 feet from property lines other than those property lines fronting the
street right-of-way.
c. 250 feet from any other monument sign on the same property,
measured along the right-of-way.
4. Changeable Message Signs. Signs may include a maximum area of thirty-
two (32) square feet that incorporates changeable messages or lettering, as
defined, in the sign face. Such messages shall not blink, flash, scroll or
change more than once per hour with the exception of signs that only
display the time and temperature.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 20
c. Gasoline Pricing Signs
1. Gasoline Pricing Signs reflecting the price of gasoline available for purchase
on the premises must be a Monument Sign.
2. The Gasoline Pricing Sign must be integral to the permitted sign for the site,
subject to the following limitations:
a. The pricing display may not scroll, flash, or change more frequently
than once a day.
b. The pricing display may not exceed two-thirds of the gross sign area
per sign face.
c. Only one pricing display is allowed per site.
d. Internal illumination may be used for the pricing display only.
3. Maximum size - 90 square feet
4. Maximum height - 10 feet
5. Setbacks
a. 15 feet from street right-of-way.
b. 40 feet from property lines other than those property lines fronting the
street right-of-way.
D. Material Regulations
All Monument Sign bases shall be constructed of the same material as the front
building facade on the same site or shall be compatible in design with stone or
brick. The Sign Support must be constructed or covered with the same masonry
material as the principal building, or stone, or brick. Sculpted aluminum sign
panels will be allowed. All sign text and graphic elements shall be limited to a
minimum of six inches from the outer limits of the sign structure.
E. Illumination
Monument Signs shall be illuminated by a ground lighting source where the light
itself and supporting structure are screened from public right-of-way, except,
signs with sculpted aluminum panels, cut-out letters, or other type of raised
lettering may be back lit using internal lighting.
F. Model Home Signs
Model Home Sign means a temporary Real Estate Sign identifying a
homebuilder's model home open for inspection. Model Home Signs are subject to
the following regulations:
1. Model Home Signs require a permit and may be erected in residential
zoning districts on the same lot as the model home.
2. Each builder in a subdivision may have one Model Home Sign for each
model home and the permit for each sign shall be granted for a period of
time to coincide with the validity of the model home's certificate of
occupancy.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 21
3. Model Home Signs shall be Ground or Monument Signs.
4. The maximum height of a Model Home Sign shall not exceed four (4) feet
from the grade.
5. The maximum area of the sign face shall not exceed eight (8) square feet.
6. Required setback shall be fifty percent (50%) of the distance between the
front property line and the building, but no less than ten feet from the front
property line.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 22
7. OTHER TYPES OF SIGNS
This Section provides standards for specific types of permanent signs permitted by this
Ordinance.
A. Menu a.nt Signs
Menu Board Signs must meet the following regulations:
1. Menu Board Signs may be Attached or Monument Signs.
2. The maximum height is six (6) feet.
3. The maximum sign area is twenty-four (24) square feet. Only one sign face
is allowed per sign.
4. All Menu Board Signs shall be located at the side or rear of the principal
building. If two signs are erected they must be at least eighteen feet apart.
5. Internal illumination may be utilized for the sign panel.
6. Any sign must be located at least fifteen feet (15') from any property line.
B. Subdivision Entry Signs
Subdivision Entry Sign means any permanent on-site sign identifying a
subdivision located in a residential zoning district. Subdivision Entry Signs must
meet the following regulations.
1. Subdivision Entry Signs may be attached to a wall at the subdivision
entrance or on a Monument Sign.
2. Attached Signs may not project above the top of the wall on which they are
attached.
3. The maximum sign area is thirty-two (32) square feet for Attached Signs.
4. Only one Monument Sign or two attached signs may be placed at each
subdivision entrance. A Monument Sign may have the subdivision name on
both sides.
5. Monument Signs may be located in the median at the street entrance if
approved by the City in an approved plan, within the developer's agreement,
or by separate application.
C. Directory Signs
Directory sign means a permanent on-site sign identifying the buildings in the
development or providing information on their location. Directory signs must meet
the following regulations.
1. Directory Signs may be either Attached or Monument Signs.
2. Directory Signs must be located a safe distance from the entry drive and the
public right-of-way as determined by the City's engineer.
3. Only one Directory Sign is allowed per street entrance.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 23
D. Institutional Signs
Institutional Sign means a permanent on-site sign used to identify governmental
and municipal agencies, public schools, churches, or similar public institutions,
and used to communicate messages of public importance to the general public.
Institutional Signs must meet the following regulations.
1. Institutional Signs may be Attached and/or Monument Signs.
2. Institutional Signs may include a reader board, subject to the following
limitations:
a. Reader board must be integral to the permitted sign for the site;
b. Messages on the reader board, whether electronic or manual, may not
scroll, flash, or change more frequently than once a day;
c. Manual reader boards using movable lettering must have a lockable
covering;
d. The reader board display cannot exceed two-thirds of the gross sign
area per sign face, excluding a Monument Sign border.
e. Internal illumination may be utilized for the reader board sign panel.
E. Pole Signs
(Intentionally left blank)
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 24
8. TEMPORARY SIGN REGULATIONS
A. Development Signs
Development Signs are allowed subject to the following regulations:
1. Development Signs require a temporary sign permit and may be erected in
nonresidential and residential zoning districts
2. Development Signs must be related only to the property on which they are
located. They may be Monument or Pole Signs provided that a minimum of
two vertical sign supports are utilized.
3. Maximum height of a Development Sign shall be 15 feet.
4. Required setback for a Development Sign shall be 30 feet or the required
building line if less than 30 feet.
5. The maximum sign area per sign face shall not exceed sixty (60) square
feet.
6. Each development site may have one such sign for each 50 acres under
active development.
7. A Development Sign must be removed when the project is 90 percent
complete. In the case of a commercial project, 90 percent complete means
when a certificate of occupancy is issued for a shell building. For a
residential project, 90 percent complete means when 90 percent of the lots
in the subdivision have received building permits.
B. Real Estate Sign
Real Estate Signs are subject to the following regulations.
1. Real Estate Signs may be erected in nonresidential and residential zoning
districts and shall not require a permit.
2. Real Estate Signs may be Attached, Monument or Ground Signs.
3. The maximum sign area shall not exceed nine (9) square feet and a
maximum height of four feet (4') for property located in a Residential Zoning
District. Signs located in a Non-Residential Zoning District shall not exceed
thirty-two (32) square feet in sign area and ten feet (10') in height.
4. Real Estate Signs shall be set back at least eight feet from front property
line.
5. Real Estate Signs are limited to one per street front.
6. A Real Estate Sign shall be removed upon the sale or lease of the property.
C. Promotional Signage
Businesses that erect signs under the provisions of this Section shall not display
a sign that states "Going out of Business", "Quitting Business" or similar message
more than one time. Promotional Signs are subject to the following regulations.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 25
1. All Promotional Signage requires a permit. A maximum of two (2) permits
are allowed for each calendar year. A separate permit is required for each
two-week period Promotional Signage will be used. Promotional signs will
be considered as a group and not as each individual sign, streamer, banner,
etc.
2. Promotional Signage may include flags, pennants, streamers, balloons,
inflatable signs, and any legal signs allowed by this Ordinance. Additionally,
a maximum of two (2) banners is allowed, in addition to flags, pennants,
streamers, balloons, inflatable or other promotional sign age per permit.
3. Promotional Signage is allowed for two, two-week periods each calendar
year per legal business subject to the following:
a. A two-week period will commence on the first day Promotional Signage
is displayed.
b. The two two-week periods shall not occur in the same or consecutive
months.
c. A legal business shall include any commercial, industrial, or
institutional use for which the building inspection department has
issued a certificate of occupancy.
d. In the case of a special promotion for a grand opening celebration, one
period may be extended to a three-week period provided the promotion
commences within the first three months of the date of issuance of a
certificate of occupancy and the grand opening is limited to the
address noted on the certificate of occupancy.
EXCEPTION: A business that is in its initial year of operation is allowed to
extend the time promotional signs are displayed, one time, from two weeks
to 30 days.
4. Any device described as Promotional Signage shall not exceed an overall
height of 25 feet.
5. The following setbacks apply. However, the setbacks may be increased for
any Promotional Signage found by the City to block traffic visibility or
constitute a traffic hazard.
a. 15 feet from street right-of-way.
b. 40 feet from property lines other than those property lines fronting the
street right-of-way.
c. 250 feet from any other monument sign on the same property,
measured along the right-of-way.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 26
9. SIGNS LOCATED IN THE CITY RIGHT-OF-WAY
Any sign permitted by this Ordinance may be erected within the public right-of-way
(unless otherwise prohibited by municipal, county, state or federal law) provided that the
following conditions are met:
A. Permits
No sign may be erected within a right-of-way until a permit has been obtained
and the proper permit fee paid. No sign shall be placed on private property or in
the right-of-way adjacent to developed private property without the private
property owner's written consent. Any permit issued for a sign in the right-of-way
shall expire on December 31 of each calendar year and a new permit is required.
B. Time Limitations
Signs shall be placed within the right-of-way only between the hours of noon
(12:00 p.m.) Friday and 9:00 p.m. Sunday.
C. Location
Signs located in the right-of-way shall comply with the following location
regulations.
1. Signs shall not be placed within any median.
2. Signs must be a minimum of five feet (5') from the adjacent edge of curb or
pavement, which includes improved surfaces and shoulders.
3. Signs shall not be placed within fifty feet (50') of any street intersection or
within twenty-five feet (25') of any alley or curb cut. Additionally, no sign
may be placed within any defined visibility triangle or in any manner that
may obstruct traffic visibility.
4. Signs shall not encroach upon or obstruct any designated sidewalk or
pedestrian way.
5. Signs shall not be placed within a right-of-way that is adjacent to a dwelling
premises.
D. Size
Signs located within the right-of-way shall not exceed six (6) square feet.
E. Height
Signs located within the right-of-way shall not exceed a total height of three feet
(3').
F. Number (Jf Signs
The maximum number of permits that shall be issued to anyone person,
company, builder, entity, group or corporation, or any of the foregoing that are
associated or related, for signs located in the right-of-way is twenty (20). For
example, a company is limited to 20 right-of-way permits. A company may not
send multiple employees to get 20 right-of-way permits each.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 27
G. Sign Placement Vehicles
Any vehicle used during the installation and removal of signs must have one (1)
revolving amber strobe light that is visible at five-hundred feet (500') in the
daylight on top of the vehicle and one (1) revolving amber strobe light that is
visible at five-hundred feet (500') in the daylight on the rear of any trailer being
used in addition to vehicle and trailer flashers. The lights should be used only
when slowing down or stopping on the roadway. Vehicles shall stop only in the
right hand lane when installing or removing signs with both flashers and amber
lights operating.
H. Tampering with Permit Decals
Any person who knowingly falsifies, tampers with, or reproduces permit decals
for signs located in the right-of-way, or falsifies an affidavit required to obtain a
permit, shall, in addition to the other penalties set forth herein, have all rights to
place or have placed signs in the right-of-way with the City of Wylie revoked for a
twelve (12) month period.
I. Temporary Banners and Streamers in the Right-at-Way
The Board of Adjustment may grant exceptions to allow banners and streamers
to be placed in the public right-of-way. Approval of such signs shall be on a case
by case basis. Signs of this type shall refer only to civic or non-profit functions
that benefit the community as a whole. Exception requests shall include the size,
number and location of all signs as well as the dates the signs will be placed
within the right-of-way. Any change in size, location, number or date of
placement must be approved by the Board of Adjustments. No fee shall be
required to request an exception of this type from the Board of Adjustments.
J. Removal at Unpermitted Signs
Unpermitted signs, or signs in violation of this Ordinance, may be immediately
removed from the right-of-way. Signs may be disposed of as set forth in Section
3.K. above.
CITY OF WYLIE SIGN REGULATIONS
Page 28
THE WYLIE NEWS
Covering Wylie, Sachse, Murphy and the surrounding area
110 N. Ballard St.
P.O. Box 369
Wylie, Texas 75098
972.442.5515
Fax 972.442.4318
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF COLLIN
Before me, the undersigned authority, on this day personally appeared Chad Engbrock, of THE WYLIE
NEWS, a newspaper regularly published in Collin County, Texas and having general circulation in Collin
County, Texas, who being by me duly sworn deposed and says that the foregoing attached
ape ;< 0 0.1 - ,21 . en<k c:z 0 0 1.. - a.;( . {)yzX ,;L () 0 J... - 02 3 G-r'2- ~ 0 0 J. - do. V - ;;'.'1'
was published in said news' paper on the followin'g dates, to-wit: '
~
/jV/- r
t I
, 2002, and
, 2002.
Q(t;;;-
Subscribed and sworn to before me this the ;<~
to certify which witness my hand and seal of office.
day of d~
, 2002,
PATTI J. BAKER
Notary Public
State of Texas
My Comm. Exp. 07-31-05
~
Notary Public in and for
The State of Texas
r;-3/-05
1fJ D3 01"
My Comnussion Expires
ORDINANCE NO.
2002-27
AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF WYLIE,
TEXAS, ADOPTING
SIGN REGULATIONS
FOR THE CITY OF
WYLIE AND THE POR-
TION OF ITS EXTRA-
TERRITORIAL JURIS-
DICTION LOCATED
WITHIN 500 FEET OF
THE RIGHT-OF-WAY
OF STATE HIGHWAY
78; PROVIDING FOR A
PENALTY FOR THE
VIOLATION OF THIS
ORDINANCE; PROVID-
ING FOR REPEALING,
SAVINGS AND SEVER-
ABILITY CLAUSES;
PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE OF
THIS ORDINANCE;
AND PROVIDING FOR
THE PUBLICATION OF
THE CAPTION HERE-
OF.
Mayor John Mondy
Attest:
Barbara A Salinas
City Secretary