City of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa - ORDINANCE NO. 775

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 155 SIGN REGULATIONS OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF SERGEANT BLUFF, IOWA 

BE IT ENACTED by the City Council of the City of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa:

SECTION 1.  SECTION MODIFIED.  Chapter 155 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa is repealed and the following is adopted in lieu thereof:

CHAPTER 155 

SIGN REGULATIONS

155.01 Purpose and Findings

155.02 Jurisdiction and Applicability

155.03 Definitions

155.04 Measurement Standards

155.05 Permit Required and Fees

155.06 Application for Permit

155.07 Review and Issuance of Permit

155.08 Inspections

155.09 Permit Revocation and Enforcement

155.10 Signs Exempt from Permit Requirement.

155.11 Construction and Design Standards

155.12 Lighting and Illumination

155.13 Maintenance and Repair

155.14 Removal of Signs in Public Right of Way

155.15 Removal of Abandoned or Non-Used Signs.

155.16 Prohibited Signs and Devices

155.17 Prohibited Obstruction of Doors, Window, or Fire Escape

155.18 Unsafe or Dangerous Signs

155.19 Window Signs

155.20 Electronic Message Centers (EMCs)

155.21 On-Premises Signage

155.22 Drive-Through / Menu Boards

155.23 Ground and Freestanding Signs

155.24 Interstate-Oriented Monument Signs

155.25 Wall Signs

155.26 Awning, Canopy and Marquee Signs

155.27 Roof Signs

155.28 Projecting Signs

155.29 Temporary and Portable Signs

155.30 On-Site Directional & Wayfinding Signs

155.31 Signs for Public, Civic, and Institutional Uses

155.32 Residential Subdivision/Association Identification Signs

155.33 Summary Table of Sign Standards

155.34 Multi-Tenant Sign Plans

155.35 Nonconforming Signs

155.36 Conflict

155.37 Appeal

155.01 PURPOSE AND FINDINGS.

The provisions of this chapter govern the construction, repair, erection, alteration, location, and maintenance of privately owned outdoor signs and outdoor advertising and identification devices of every kind, together with their appurtenant and auxiliary devices, within the City of Sergeant Bluff. These regulations are adopted in order to protect public safety, property values, community aesthetics, and fair commercial expression, and are found and declared to be necessary and proper to the following purposes:

1. Promote the general welfare and maintain the City’s visual character.

2. Protect property values and prevent blight, deterioration, and unsafe visual clutter.

3. Protect the general public from damage and injury which may be caused by the faulty, unsafe, or unregulated construction, installation, or maintenance of signs.

4. Prevent unreasonable appropriation of the public domain, including streets, rights-of-way, and open spaces, to private use.

5. Ensure signs do not create traffic or pedestrian hazards or obstruct visibility.

6. Promote effective communication in a content-neutral manner, without favoring or discriminating based on message content or viewpoint.

155.02 JURISDICTION AND APPLICABILITY.

1. This chapter applies to all signs and sign structures erected, displayed, or maintained within the corporate limits of the City of Sergeant Bluff, whether permanent or temporary, unless expressly exempted herein.

2. This chapter governs all privately-owned signs and all non-governmental signs located on public or private property. Official governmental traffic-control devices, public safety signage, and other signs installed by or at the direction of a governmental entity in the performance of a public duty are exempt except where expressly stated.

3. Any sign lawfully existing on the effective date of this chapter that does not conform to the provisions herein shall be deemed a legal nonconforming sign and shall be regulated in accordance with Section 155.35.

4. No sign shall be erected, altered, relocated, enlarged, or structurally modified except in compliance with this chapter. Replacement of a sign cabinet, frame, support, footing, or other structural component constitutes a structural modification. Replacement of sign copy or a sign face panel is not exempt from the permit requirements unless the sign qualifies as exempt under 155.16. Where a sign permit is required under 155.05, the permit shall be obtained prior to replacement.

5. All signs regulated by this chapter shall also comply with Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapter 156 (Building Codes) and the building, fire, electrical codes adopted by the City.

6. All signs regulated by this chapter shall also comply with Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapters 16A, 165B, 165C. 165D. and 165E (Zoning Code) and the zoning regulations adopted by the City relevant to signs regulated by this chapter. For purposes of this chapter, references to zoning districts shall correspond to the districts established in Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapter 165B: AR, RS150, RS80, RG60, RG20, MF-1, M, BG, BGC, BN, HSB, BGH, ML, MH, MLG, PD, and AP.

7. Noncommercial Message Substitution. Any sign authorized by this chapter may display a noncommercial message. A noncommercial message may be substituted for any commercial message or other sign copy. The noncommercial message shall comply with all size, height, location, and other requirements of this chapter applicable to the sign.

155.03 DEFINITIONS.

Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following definitions apply:

1. “Awning sign” means a sign affixed directly on or attached to an awning.

2. “Billboard” means a type of off-premises sign that is designed for viewing from a public roadway and intended to advertise off-site businesses, products, services, activities, or messages.

3. “Canopy sign” means a sign mounted on or supported by a canopy or structural projection.

4. “Digital sign” or “Electronic Message Center (EMC)” means a sign, or portion of a sign, capable of displaying changing messages or graphics through electronic or digital means.

5. “Freestanding sign” means a sign supported by one or more columns or supports placed on the ground and independent from any building.

6. “Ground sign” means a freestanding sign with its bottom edge within twelve (12) inches of finished grade.

7. “Illuminated sign” means a sign illuminated by electrical lighting, internal or external, including LED or neon systems.

8. “Marquee sign” means a sign mounted on or supported by a marquee or similar permanent canopy.

9. “Monument sign” means a low-profile freestanding sign where the base and superstructure present a monolithic, ground-integrated appearance.

10. “Off-premises sign” means a sign that advertises a business, product, service, or activity not located on the same lot as the sign.

11. “On-premises sign” means a sign identifying or advertising a business, product, service, or activity located on the same lot as the sign.

12. “Portable sign” means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or a structure and designed to be moved, including trailer-mounted signs.

13. “Primary street frontage” means the street frontage designated as the principal access in an approved site plan, or where no site plan exists, the longest street frontage.

14. “Projecting sign” means a sign attached to a building wall and projecting outward from it.

15. “Roof sign” means any sign erected upon or above the roof of a building.

16. “Sign area” means the total surface area of a sign face as calculated in accordance with Section 155.04.

17. “Sign copy” means any text, symbol, logo, graphic, or message displayed on a sign face.

18. “Sign face” means the surface area on which sign copy or graphics are displayed.

19. “Sign height” means the vertical distance between finished grade at the sign base and the highest point of the sign structure.

20. “Sign structure” means the supporting framework, base, or components designed to support a sign.

21. “Temporary sign” means a sign intended for limited-duration display, including banners, event signs, or real estate signs.

22. “Tenant frontage” means the linear width of the portion of a building façade occupied by a tenant and facing a public street.

23. “Wall sign” means a sign attached flat against or painted directly upon a wall. 

24. “Window sign” means a sign placed on or inside a window and visible from the exterior.

155.04 MEASUREMENT STANDARDS.

1. Area. Measured as the area of the smallest geometric shape (or combination of shapes) that encloses the entire sign face, including all copy, logos, and background area, but excluding supporting posts, braces, or foundations.

2. Multiple Faces. When two faces are back-to-back and not more than 30 inches apart, only one face area is counted. When faces are arranged in a “V” or at an angle, each face shall be counted separately.

3. Height. Height shall be measured from the average finished grade within five (5) feet of the base of the sign to the highest point of the sign structure.

4. Setbacks & Clearances. Signs shall maintain required setbacks from rights-of-way and property lines under Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapter 165B

5. Sight Triangles. Signs shall comply with sight-triangle provisions and standards in Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Section 165A.18.

155.05 PERMIT REQUIRED AND FEES.

1. Permit Required. No person shall erect, install, alter, relocate, or structurally modify a sign without first obtaining a Sign Permit from Inspection Services.

2. Fees. Permit fees are set by Council resolution pursuant to Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Section 156.03.

3. Electrical Permit. Separate electrical permits are required for illuminated or digital signs.

4. Signs Exempt from Permit. Exemptions from permit requirements are listed in Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Section 155.16.

5. Right-of-Way. Signs shall be located entirely on private property. No sign or portion of a sign shall be located within or project into or over any public right-of-way unless authorized by the City.[AL1.1] 

6. State Highway Signs. Signs located along state highways may also require approval or permitting from the Iowa Department of Transportation. Signs located within a state highway right-of-way or signs regulated under Iowa Code Chapter 306C (Outdoor Advertising Control) shall comply with all applicable Iowa Department of Transportation requirements in addition to all applicable City requirements. City approval does not substitute for any required state authorization. Issuance of a City sign permit does not authorize installation of a sign that requires a permit or approval from the Iowa Department of Transportation. City permits do not authorize violations of state control.

7. Airport Overlay. In Airport Overlay districts, applicants must demonstrate overlay compliance and, where applicable, file FAA Form 7460-1 prior to City permit issuance.

8. Retroactive Permits Prohibited. No sign permit shall be issued retroactively for work performed without a permit.

9. Permit Limitations and Revocation. A sign permit authorizes work only as approved and does not permit a violation of this chapter or other applicable law. Permits may be revoked as provided in this chapter.

10. Permit Expiration. A sign permit shall expire if the authorized work is not completed within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of issuance. The Building Official may grant an extension of up to ninety (90) days upon written request showing good cause.

155.06 APPLICATION FOR PERMIT.

Applications shall be on City forms and include:

1. Completed City Sign Permit Application and fee.

2. Scaled site plan showing property lines, buildings, driveways, utilities, and proposed sign location.

3. Elevation/rendering showing dimensions, height, copy, materials, and colors.

4. Footing/foundation details for freestanding or monument signs.

5. Electrical plans (if illuminated) demonstrating NEC Article 600 compliance.

6. Written owner consent if the applicant is not the owner.

7. Proof of a sign contractor bond in the amount of ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for any person, firm, or entity performing sign work for compensation. The bond shall be maintained in effect for the duration of sign work performed within the City and shall be subject to administrative requirements established by Inspection Services.

8. Any additional data necessary to verify zoning compliance or building safety.

9. For signs requiring underground/footing work, proof or affirmation that  Iowa One-Call locating is or will be completed prior to excavation.

10. Plans that sufficiently demonstrate that the proposed sign is located entirely on private property and does not project into or over any public right-of-way unless authorized by the City.

11. Incomplete applications may be returned without review.

155.07 REVIEW AND ISSUANCE OF PERMIT.

1. Inspection Services will review all applications for permits for compliance with this chapter, applicable zoning, and adopted building/electrical/fire codes.

2. Following review and any additional follow up, a permit shall be issued upon approval and fee payment.

155.08 INSPECTIONS.

1. Required inspections (as applicable):

A. Footing/below-grade (before pour).

B. Structural mounting/anchors.

C. Electrical rough and final (illuminated/EMC).

D. Final placement/clearance/sight-triangle.

E. Any other inspection required by the Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer when necessary to verify compliance with adopted codes or due to unusual site or construction conditions. 

2. Any work concealed prior to required inspection shall be uncovered for inspection at the permit holder’s expense.

3. No sign may be operated or displayed until final inspection and approval.

4. Following inspection, the Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer may order, correction, repair or removal of any noncompliant, unsafe or hazardous sign installation.

155.09 PERMIT REVOCATION AND ENFORCEMENT.

1. Permits may be suspended or revoked for false information, noncompliance or safety violations.

2. The Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer may issue a stop-work order for any sign work performed without a required permit or performed in an unsafe or noncompliant manner.

3. The City may require de-energizing, securing, or removal of any sign determined to be unsafe, including unsafe electrical components.

4. The City may remove or abate any sign constituting an immediate hazard or public nuisance under Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapter 50, and abatement costs may be assessed against the property.

5. Violations of this chapter are municipal infractions under Chapter 4, and each day in violation shall be a separate offense.

155.10 SIGNS EXEMPT FROM PERMIT REQUIREMENT.

1. The following signs are exempt from requirements to obtain a permit, but these signs must comply with applicable construction, size, and location standards:

A. Non-electrical real-estate signs: ≤12 sq. ft. in residential; ≤32 sq. ft. in other zones shall be removed within seven (7) days after sale or lease of the property.

B. Institutional/community bulletin boards: ≤16 sq. ft.

C. Nameplates/professional ID: ≤2 sq. ft.

D. Construction identification: ≤32 sq. ft. (residential zones) or ≤64 sq. ft. (all other non-residential zones). Shall be removed within seven (7) days after completion of the project or issuance of certificate of occupancy.

E. Memorial plaques/building names cut into masonry/metal.

F. Official governmental/public-safety signs.

G. Vehicle markings on active service vehicles.

H. Directional/parking-control signs: ≤6 sq ft.

I. Political signs on private property during election periods in accordance with Iowa Code Chapter 68A. Such signs shall be removed within seven (7) days after the election unless otherwise required by state law.

J. Holiday/seasonal decorations not used for advertising.

155.11 CONSTRUCTION AND DESIGN STANDARDS.

1. Structural Design. All signs and sign structures shall comply with the sign provisions of the International Building Code as adopted by the City in Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapter 156, including requirements for structural design, wind and seismic loads, and anchorage.

2. Materials. Materials shall be durable, weather-resistant, and properly secured.

3. Prohibited Attachments. No sign shall be attached to a standpipe, drain, unbraced parapet, or fire escape.

4. Engineered Design. Signs and sign structures shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the adopted International Building Code. Design by an Iowa licensed design professional is required for any of the following, unless the Building Official determines the proposal is fully prescriptive under the adopted codes and manufacturer documentation:

A. Freestanding signs exceeding twelve (12) feet in height.

B. Any sign supported by structural steel framing, poles, pylons, or cantilevered members not covered by prescriptive code provisions.

C. Any sign with unusual geometry, wind exposure, or site conditions that reasonably require engineering to verify structural adequacy.

D. Any sign where engineering is required by the adopted building code.

5. Electrical and Fire Safety. Electrical components shall comply with the National Electrical Code, Article 600, and applicable sign provisions of the International Fire Code as adopted by the City.

6. Egress and Access. Signs shall not obstruct doors, windows, fire escapes, or required access ways.

7. Foundations. Footings shall extend below frost depth as required by the adopted building code and local conditions, as determined by the Building Official, and be designed in accordance with the International Building Code load combinations as adopted; expansive or saturated soils may require geotechnical verification.

8. Electrical Listing and Disconnect. All sign electrical equipment shall be listed and labeled per the National Electrical Code; provide a lockable, within-sight disconnect and proper bonding and grounding.

9. State Outdoor Advertising. Off-premises outdoor advertising adjacent to state highways must comply with Iowa Code Chapter 306C and Iowa DOT rules. 

155.12 LIGHTING AND ILLUMINATION.

Signage that includes lighting and illumination shall comply with the following: 

1. Arrange lighting to prevent glare on streets, sidewalks, or adjacent property.

2. Light must be directed only onto the sign surface and shielded from public view.

3. No illumination shall resemble/conflict with traffic signals.

4. All electrical systems shall comply with the National Electrical Code, Article 600, and applicable sign provisions of the International Fire Code, as adopted by the City.

5. Internally illuminated cabinets: opaque backgrounds with translucent copy/logos.

6. Max light intensity: 0.3 foot-candles above ambient (horizontal), measured at the property line or from the nearest public right-of-way using a handheld meter at approximately 3 feet above grade.

7. Beacon-type lights prohibited. It is unlawful to operate any device projecting a beam of light skyward or beyond the property line to attract attention. Searchlights or beacons are permitted only for emergency or public-safety use.

155.13 MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR.

1. Signs and sign structures must be maintained in good repair at all times. Lighting and electrical components must remain functional and compliant. Failure to maintain a sign constitutes a violation of this chapter and is also subject to enforcement under Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapter 50.

2. The Building Official may order correction on the following timelines:

A. Imminent hazard (structural/electrical/sight-triangle): within 24 hours, including immediate securing, barricading, or de-energizing as necessary.

B. Functional defect (lighting failure, loose panels): within 7 days.

C. Cosmetic/cleanliness (fading/peeling): within 10 days.

D. Timeframes may be modified in the notice when necessary based on site conditions, severity, weather, contractor availability, or other practical factors.

155.14 REMOVAL OF SIGNS IN PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY.

1. Any sign, including temporary signs and advertising devices, placed without authorization from the City on City property or within the public right-of-way, which includes but is not limited to the area between a sidewalk and the street, is unlawful. 

2. Unlawfully placed signs are an obstruction of public property, and the City may remove and dispose of such signs.

3. When practicable, the City may retain removed signs for a maximum  of ten (10) days to allow the owner to claim the sign. After the retention period expires, the City may dispose of the sign without further notice.

4. Removal under this section is in addition to any municipal infraction enforcement which may also be imposed under Sergeant Bluff Municipal Code Chapter 4.

155.15 REMOVAL OF ABANDONED OR NON-USED SIGNS.

1. A sign that no longer advertises an active on-site tenant, business, service, or product for sixty (60) days is deemed abandoned.

2. The owner shall remove the sign and structure within thirty (30) days after written notice.

3. If not removed, the City may remove it as a nuisance and assess costs to the property pursuant to Chapter 50.

155.16 PROHIBITED SIGNS AND DEVICES.

No person shall have or permit on any premises:

1. Signage or structures that are moving or rotating. 

2. Signage, support or lighting that interferes with, obscures, or imitates traffic-control devices.

3. Signs mounted to trees, fences, utility poles, or rocks. Exception: Signage may be placed on fencing surrounding an athletic field or complex owned or operated by a school, public agency, or nonprofit athletic organization, provided:

A. The signage is located entirely on private property.

B. The signage does not obstruct required sight triangles or public rights-of-way.

C. The signage is non-illuminated.

D. Individual panels do not exceed 32 square feet per face.

E. The signage is removed or updated when no longer maintained or sponsored.

4. Portable or trailer-mounted signs with animation or illumination.

5. Vehicles primarily parked for the purpose of displaying advertising and not regularly used for transportation.

6. No sign shall be located within or project into the public right-of-way unless authorized by the City or permitted by the Iowa Department of Transportation where applicable.

7. Signs obstructing driver visibility or sight triangles in violation of Sergeant Bluff Code of Ordinances section 165A.18.

8. Balloon, inflatable, wind or air-activated displays for advertising.

9. Lighting that emits flashing, oscillating, or strobing red or blue light visible from a public right-of-way, except as required for lawful emergency or public-safety purposes.

10. Beacon-type lights and devices projecting a beam of light skyward or beyond the property line to attract attention, except that searchlights or beacons are permitted only for emergency or public-safety use.

155.17 PROHIBITED OBSTRUCTION OF DOORS, WINDOWS, OR FIRE ESCAPE.

No sign or support shall:

1.  Block or reduce required means of egress, openings for light or ventilation, or access to fire-protection equipment. 

2. Attach to fire escapes.

155.18 UNSAFE OR DANGEROUS SIGNS.

1. Any sign that becomes structurally unsafe, insecure, or otherwise presents a hazard to public safety shall be repaired or removed.

2. The Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer may order the repair or removal of any unsafe sign within thirty (30) days of written notice.

3. If an immediate danger to public safety exists, the City may cause the sign to be removed or secured without prior notice.

4. Failure to comply may result in removal of the sign by the City as a public nuisance, with the cost assessed to the property owner pursuant to Chapter 50.

155.19 WINDOW SIGNS.

Window signs (both temporary or permanent) shall not occupy more than 50% of any individual windowpane nor more than 25% of total street-facing glazing. Window signs shall not obstruct required egress, ventilation, or life-safety signage. Internally illuminated window signs must comply with 155.16 shielding and glare limits.

155.20 ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTERS (EMCs).

1. Definition. Any sign or portion capable of displaying text/symbols/images that change electronically.

2. Location. EMCs are permitted only within BG, BGC, BN, HSB, BGH, ML, MH, and MLG zones, and within PD only where approved through site plan/design review, and subject to applicable freestanding/monument limits.

3. Brightness. Brightness shall not exceed 0.3 footcandles above ambient light when measured at the property line or from the nearest public right-of-way using a handheld meter at approximately 3 feet above grade.

4. Automatic Dimming. Required light-sensing controls for ambient adjustment.

5. Message Duration. Messages shall not change more frequently than once every four (4) seconds; no scrolling, flashing, video, or animation.

6. Transitions. Instant or ≤1-second fade only.

7. Malfunction. Erratic displays must be shut off until repaired.

8. Audio/Video. Prohibited.

9. Electrical. NEC 600 compliance and electrical inspection required.

10. Permits. Sign and electrical permits required.

11. Residential Adjacency. Where the sign is on a lot that abuts residential zoning or is separated from residential zoning by a local street or alley: either (a) dark 10:00 p.m.–6:00 a.m., or (b) operate at ≤0.1 fc above ambient during those hours.

12. Content Neutrality. Regulations are content-neutral and apply regardless of message.

155.21 ON-PREMISES SIGNAGE.

1. Applicability. On-premises signage is allowed on  properties within BG, BGC, ML, MH, MLG, BN, BGH, and HSB unless further limited by zoning approval, and within PD where signage is approved through site plan or design review.

2. Aggregate Area for Commercial/Industrial. Total on-premises sign area shall not exceed 3.0 square feet per linear foot of primary street frontage, allocated among all permitted sign types on the lot, including wall, freestanding, monument, projecting, and electronic message center faces. Primary street frontage shall mean the street frontage designated as the principal access in the approved site plan or, where no site plan exists, the longest street frontage. The aggregate allowance applies to the total combined area of all on-premises signs on the lot, regardless of sign type or number. All freestanding, wall, projecting and interstate-oriented monument signs shall count toward the aggregate sign area permitted. Directional signs shall not be counted toward aggregate sign area.

3. Residential & Agricultural (RS150, RS80, RG60, RG20, MF-1, M, AR). One (1) wall or freestanding sign per premises not exceeding 16 square feet and 6 feet in height.

4. Institutional Uses (Churches, Schools, Public Facilities). Institutional signage shall comply with the requirements of Section 155.31 regulating signs for public, civic, and institutional uses.

5. Subdivision Entrance Signs. Subdivision entrance signs on-premises shall comply with Section 155.33 regulating residential subdivision and association identification signs.

6. Conformance. On-premises signs shall also conform to any dimensional, design, and setback standards of the applicable zoning district established in Chapter 165B.

155.22 DRIVE-THROUGH / MENU BOARDS.

1. Number & Size. Up to two (2) menu/preview boards are permitted per drive-through lane which shall be  ≤60 sq. ft. per face and  ≤7 ft. tall.

2. Location. located on private property for the business served, outside sight triangles, and must be  ≥10 ft. from any property line abutting residential zoning.

3. Illumination. Menu/preview boards shall be shielded, non-glare with automatic dimming at night, and no animation or flashing lights.

4. Function. Menu/preview boards are considered directional/operational, and copy is limited to on-site goods/services.

155.23 GROUND AND FREESTANDING SIGNS.

1. Maximum height by district for ground and free standing signs shall be as follows

A. BN, BG, BGC, HSB – 20 ft. max.

B. BGH, MLG, MH – 25 ft. max.

C. RS150, RS80, RG60, RG20, MF-1, M, AR – 6 ft. max.

D. PD – per approved site plan.

E. AP – subject to FAA and AP-district restrictions.

2. Setbacks. Entire sign (including base/cantilever/cabinet) must be on private property, located ≥2 ft. from any property line, outside all sight triangles per 165A.18, and outside recorded utility or drainage easements.

3. Quantity. One (1) freestanding or monument sign is permitted per lot per street frontage, unless a multi-tenant sign plan is approved under 155.34.

4. Design and Construction Materials. Base/structure shall be constructed of durable, permanent materials including masonry, concrete, stone, metal, or engineered structural systems. Unfinished, temporary, or non-structural materials are prohibited as primary sign supports.

5. Surrounding Maintenance. Area around the sign shall be kept free of weeds, debris, and refuse.

6. Encroachments. No portion of a freestanding or ground sign, including any base, support, or projection, shall extend into or over the public right-of-way.

7. Maximum sign face area by district for double-faced signs, with each face counted separately shall be as follows:

A. BN, BG, BGC, HSB: Not to exceed 100 square feet per sign face.

B. BGH, MLG, MH: Not to exceed 150 square feet per sign face.

C. RS150, RS80, RG60, RG20, MF-1, M, AR: Not to exceed 16 square feet per sign face.

D. PD and AP: As approved through site plan and applicable district restrictions.

8. Spacing. Freestanding signs on the same parcel shall be separated by a minimum distance of one hundred (100) feet measured horizontally between sign structures.

155.24 INTERSTATE-ORIENTED MONUMENT SIGNS.

1. Applicability. Applies only to properties with frontage directly abutting an interstate or controlled-access highway.

2. Purpose. Signage may be installed to provide identification for major developments visible from high-speed corridors while avoiding pole or billboard-style signage.

3. Number. One (1) interstate-oriented monument sign is permitted per development.

4. Size and Height permitted as follows:

A. Maximum sign area: 120 sq. ft. per face.

B. Maximum height: 30 ft. measured from adjacent roadway grade.

5. Design standards required for interstate-oriented monument sign.

A. Masonry or concrete base required.

B. No exposed poles or pylons permitted.

C. Electronic message centers prohibited.

6. Interstate-oriented monument sign require both a City sign permit and all applicable Iowa DOT and federal approvals.

7. This section authorizes only on-premises identification signage.

155.25 WALL SIGNS.

1. General. Wall signs shall be flat-mounted or painted on a building wall and shall not extend beyond the building edges or above the roofline or parapet.

2. Maximum Area (Commercial/Industrial Districts). In BG, BGC, ML, MH, MLG, and PD, wall sign area shall be limited as follows:

A. Public Street-Facing Tenant. Wall sign area shall not exceed 1.5 square feet per linear foot of tenant frontage, to a maximum of 100 square feet per tenant. For purposes of this calculation, tenant frontage means the horizontal length of the tenant space that directly faces a public street or an access drive approved as the primary frontage in an approved site plan.

B. Setback Greater Than 250 Feet. Where the tenant’s primary building face is set back more than 250 feet from the nearest public street right-of-way, wall sign area shall not exceed 2.0 square feet per linear foot of tenant frontage, to a maximum of 200 square feet per tenant.

C. Corner/Two-Street Frontage. Wall sign area may be calculated using up to two street-facing frontages; however, the total wall sign area shall not exceed 200 square feet per tenant.

D. Large Buildings. Buildings exceeding 50,000 square feet of gross floor area may be approved for additional wall sign area through site plan review, provided the total sign area does not exceed the aggregate allowance in 155.22.

3. Residential and Agricultural Districts. In RS150, RS80, RG60, RG20, MF-1, M, and AR, wall signs are limited to the allowance in 155.22(4) and any applicable standards of Chapter 165B.

4. Number of Signs. Unless otherwise approved through a multi-tenant sign plan under 155.34, a maximum of three (3) wall signs are permitted per tenant, with no more than one (1) wall sign per building façade.

5. Projection. Wall signs shall not project more than twelve (12) inches from the wall surface.

6. Doors, Windows, and Features. Wall signs shall not obstruct doors, windows, required egress openings, or significant architectural features.

7. Painted Wall Signs. Painted wall signs are permitted when maintained in a neat, legible condition and otherwise comply with this chapter.

155.26   AWNING, CANOPY, AND MARQUEE SIGNS. 

1. Awning signs, canopy signs, and marquee signs shall be regulated as wall signs for purposes of sign area and placement unless otherwise specified. 

2. Any awning, canopy, or marquee sign over a pedestrian area shall maintain a minimum clearance of seven feet six inches (7'6") above grade. 

3. No awning, canopy, or marquee sign may project into the public right-of-way unless approved by the City.

155.27 ROOF SIGNS.

1. Roof signs shall be permitted only where approved through site-plan/design review.

2. No roof sign shall extend more than 10 ft. above the roofline.

3. Supports for roof signs shall be anchored into building structural framing.

4. Roof signs shall not impede roof access or fire protection.

5. Off-premises roof signs are prohibited.

155.28 PROJECTING SIGNS.

1. Projecting signs must be engineered to transfer loads to building frame without overstress and be constructed so that the bottom of the sign projecting over pedestrian area is ≥10 ft. above grade.

2. No projecting sign shall extend into the public right-of-way unless authorized by the City.

3. Projecting signs shall not extend more than five (5) feet from the wall.

4. No projecting signs are permitted in alleys or visibility triangles.

5. The total thickness, including frame/bracket for projecting signs must be ≤18 inches.

155.29 TEMPORARY AND PORTABLE SIGNS

1. Only one (1) temporary/portable sign per street frontage is permitted at a time.

2. Temporary and portable banners shall be ≤100 sq. ft, and for other temporary signs ≤32 sq. ft.

3. Display Window. Temporary event signs may be displayed in a window ≤14 days before the event and must be removed within 48 hours after the event.

4. Annual Limit. Total temporary display time shall be  ≤90 days/year per site, regardless of the number or type of temporary signs, and no single display period may exceed 30 consecutive days.

5. Placement of temporary and portable signs is not allowed  in the public right-of-way, on utility poles, or on City property, including sidewalks and streets unless authorized by the City

6. Inflatable, air-activated, or moving temporary signs are prohibited.

7. Identification. Temporary commercial signs shall include the site address or responsible party contact (in print ≥½-inch characters) legible from the nearest public way. Political signs regulated under Iowa Code Chapter 68A, including sections 68A.405 and 68A.406, are exempt from this identification requirement but shall otherwise comply with the applicable size, location, and safety standards of this chapter.

8. Bag Signs. Coverage with bag signs are permitted as a temporary cover used to conceal obsolete or damaged sign faces while a replacement sign is being manufactured or installed.

A. Bag signs shall be constructed of cloth, canvas, or similar flexible material and shall be securely fastened to prevent flapping or detachment.

B. Bag signs shall not include advertising copy, logos, or messages other than a blank cover.

C. Bag signs may be displayed for a maximum of forty-five (45) consecutive days. A single extension of up to fifteen (15) additional days may be approved by the Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer upon written request showing good cause.

D. Bag signs shall not create a traffic hazard, obstruct sight triangles under 165A.18, or extend into the public right-of-way.

9. Temporary signs shall not obstruct traffic visibility or required sight triangles under Section 165A.18. 

155.30 ON-SITE DIRECTIONAL & WAYFINDING SIGNS.

1. Purpose. On-site directional and wayfinding signs facilitate safe internal circulation without advertising.

2. Where Allowed. Directional and wayfinding signs shall be installed on the same lot as the principal use in multifamily, commercial, industrial, institutional, and mixed-use developments.

3. Number & Size. Ground directional signage: ≤6 sq. ft. area, ≤4 ft. height. Building/drive-through directional signage: ≤8 sq. ft. area.

4. Setbacks. Installation shall be  ≥2 ft. from property lines and located outside sight triangles per 165A.18.

5. Design. Content is limited to arrows, lane control, drive-through, pickup, entrances/exits, safety text. No logos or commercial copy is permitted except tenant name/address if limited to ≤25% of area.

6. Illumination. If illuminated, comply with 155.12 and signage must be fully shielded with no glare onto public right-of-way.

155.31 SIGNS FOR PUBLIC, CIVIC, AND INSTITUTIONAL USES.

1. Applicability. Restrictions applicable to signage for schools, libraries, places of worship, public facilities, and similar civic/institutional uses in any district.

2. Wall Signs. Signage must comply with wall-sign standards for the district where located.

3. Monument Signs. Signage limited to one per street frontage and no more than two  per site and shall be ≤48 sq. ft. per face, ≤8 ft. in height, and at least 10 ft. setback from any property line and outside sight triangles under 165A.18. Signage base/materials shall be consistent with 155.23(4).

4. EMCs are permitted only as part of a monument sign and are subject to all requirements of 155.20.

155.32 RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION/ASSOCIATION IDENTIFICATION SIGNS.

1. Purpose. Residential subdivision or association identification signs shall identify residential neighborhoods/subdivisions at primary entrances.

2. Number. Signage is limited to one (1) per entrance.

3. Size/Height. ≤40 sq. ft. per face and  ≤8 ft. height.

4. Setback shall be at least the height of the sign from any property line and outside sight triangles per 165A.18, and in compliance with applicable setbacks in Chapter 165B.

5. Materials/Maintenance. Signage shall be constructed of masonry/stone or comparable durable materials and the Association or responsible party must maintain both the sign and any surrounding landscaping. The City may require a recorded sign maintenance covenant.

155.33 SUMMARY TABLE OF SIGN STANDARDS. 
This table is provided for informational purposes only. In the event of any conflict, the detailed provisions of this chapter shall control.

155.34 MULTI-TENANT SIGN PLANS.

1. When Required. A multi-tenant sign plan is required when a lot contains more than one tenant, building, or principal use that will utilize shared freestanding signage, multiple freestanding signs, or coordinated wall sign allocations, including shopping centers, business parks, and multi-tenant commercial or industrial developments.

2. Purpose. The purpose of a multi-tenant sign plan is to allocate sign area, sign locations, and sign types among tenants in a coordinated manner that maintains safety, avoids sign clutter, and ensures predictable administration.

3. Minimum Submittal Requirements. A multi-tenant sign plan shall include:

A. A site plan showing all existing and proposed sign locations, drive aisles, access points, rights-of-way, property lines, and sight triangles under 165A.18.

B. An allocation schedule identifying each tenant’s permitted wall sign area and the development’s permitted freestanding sign area, consistent with the limits of this chapter.

C. Sign elevations showing height, area, materials, illumination method (if any), and how tenant panels or copy will be updated.

D. A statement identifying the party responsible for long-term maintenance and for updating tenant panels or copy.

4. Effect. Upon approval, the multi-tenant sign plan governs the number, area, and placement of signs for that development. Individual sign permits shall be reviewed for consistency with the approved plan and this chapter. No sign shall be approved or installed inconsistent with the approved plan.

5. An approved multi-tenant sign plan may redistribute permitted wall sign area among tenants within the development; however, the total aggregate sign area permitted for the lot under Section 155.22 shall not be increased.

155.35 NONCONFORMING SIGNS.

Signs in existence when these sign regulations became effective may continue in existence lawfully subject to the following: 

1. Continuation. A lawful sign that becomes nonconforming may continue if maintained and not enlarged/relocated/altered to increase nonconformity.

2. Copy Changes. Changing copy/face without enlarging the cabinet/structure is allowed.

3. Damage/Destruction. If a nonconforming sign is damaged or destroyed ≥50% of replacement value, the nonconforming sign must be removed or reconstructed in full compliance.

4. Abandonment. A sign that no longer pertains to an activity or tenant for 60 consecutive days is abandoned and shall be removed per 155.15. The City may abate under Chapter 50 Nuisance Abatement Procedure.

5. Removal for Safety. City may order immediate removal or securing of any structurally unsafe sign per Chapter 156 Building Codes and Chapter 50 Nuisance Abatement Procedure.

6. Amortization. The City does not require amortization/removal of a lawful nonconforming sign except for safety, abandonment, or voluntary alteration that increases nonconformity or constitutes a structural modification requiring compliance with this chapter.

7. Normal maintenance and repair of a nonconforming sign is permitted. This includes repainting, replacement of the sign face, or repair of structural components, provided the sign is not enlarged, relocated, or structurally altered in a manner that increases the degree of nonconformity. Such maintenance remains subject to the permit requirements of this chapter where applicable.

8. Abandoned Sign Cabinets. A sign structure or cabinet remaining without a sign face, copy, or message for more than ninety (90) consecutive days shall be considered an abandoned sign and shall be removed or brought into compliance with this chapter.

155.36 CONFLICT.

In interpreting this chapter’s requirements, if conflict exists, the more restrictive applies, except that building/electrical/fire codes govern structural, electrical, and life-safety matters.

155.37 APPEAL.

The applicant, adjacent property owner, or any officer, department, or board of the City affected by any decision, interpretation, or order made by the City Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer regarding enforcement of this chapter may appeal to the Council within ten (10) days from the date of the issuance of the decision by filing with the Clerk a notice of appeal specifying the grounds for the appeal. The Clerk shall advise the City Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer, who shall transmit to the Council all papers constituting the record upon which the action appealed from is taken. An appeal shall stay all proceedings in furtherance of the action appealed from except for unsafe signs which present an immediate danger to the public, and in such case the provisions elsewhere provided for in this chapter shall be applicable. Prior to the time of a public hearing by the Council on an appeal, the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission shall review the appeal and make a recommendation on same to the Council for consideration at the public hearing. The Council shall, upon the filing of an appeal, fix a reasonable time for a hearing on same, giving public notice thereof as well as due notice to the parties in interest. All interested persons may offer oral or written testimony at the public hearing on the appeal. The Council may vote by majority to affirm, modify, or reverse the order, requirement, decision or determination of the City Building Official or Code Enforcement Officer. Any person, department, or board of the City jointly or severally aggrieved by any decision of the Council may, within thirty (30) days from date of the filing of the decision by the Council, appeal therefrom to the district court for Woodbury County.

SECTION 2. AMENDED SECTION. Section 50.03 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa is amended by adding an additional paragraph as follows: 

6. Signs (See Chapter 155)

SECTION 3.  REPEALER.  All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.  In all other respects, the Code of Ordinances of the City of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa shall remain in effect as previously adopted.  

SECTION 4. SEVERABILITY CLAUSE.  If any section, provision or part of this ordinance shall be adjudged invalid or unconstitutional, such adjudication shall not affect the validity of the ordinance as a whole or any section, provision or part thereof not adjudged invalid or unconstitutional.  

SECTION 5.  WHEN EFFECTIVE.  This ordinance shall be in effect from and after its final passage and approval and publication as provided by law.  

Passed by the City Council of the City of Sergeant Bluff on the ____ day of ________,  2026, and approved this _____ day of _______,  2026.

MAYOR/MAYOR PRO TEM

Attest:

CITY CLERK 

First Reading:8/25/2026Vote for passage: 5-0

Second Reading: 9/8/2026Vote for passage: 5-0

Third Reading: 9/22/2026Vote for passage: 4-0

Passed, Approved, and Adopted September 22, 2026

I, Danny Christoffers, certify that the foregoing was published as Ordinance No. 775 on the 1st day of  October, 2026.

CITY CLERK