Sec. 24-69

Signage

• A-1 or MU sign section choice

  For properties zoned A-1 or MU, signs shall be permitted under section 24-69 or 24-70, but not both.

• Residential freestanding sign maximum area32 sqftsq ftSquare feet. An acre is 43,560 sq ft; a typical suburban lot is 7,000–10,000.

  Such sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area.

• Residential freestanding sign maximum heightMaximum heightThe tallest a building may be, given in feet, in storeys, or both — whichever binds first.15 ft

  If freestanding, such sign shall not exceed a height of 15 feet above natural grade.

• Residential sign community character criteria

  In reviewing the plans for signs, supporting structures, and entrance features, the following criteria shall be considered in deciding whether to approve the sign application: (1) Scale. The scale of the sign(s), supporting structure(s), and entrance features shall be consistent with, and complement, the adjacent properties and the road(s) on which the residentially zoned property is located. (2) Materials, colors, and construction. The materials, colors, and construction of the sign(s), supporting structure(s), and entrance features shall complement the character of the road on which the residentially zoned property is located and shall not detract from the aesthetics of adjacent properties. (3) Landscaping. An appropriate mix of deciduous and evergreen trees and/or shrubs shall be provided that enhance the appearance of the sign(s), supporting structure(s), and associated entrance features. (4) Safety. The sign(s) and entrance features shall be located in such a manner that they do not impair the safety of motorists, pedestrians, or bicyclists.

• Residential sign community character review

  The planning director shall review and approve signs, supporting structures, and entrance features to be placed within a community character area or along roads designated as community character corridors as identified by the James City County Comprehensive Plan.

• Residential sign corner setbackSetbackThe distance a building must be held back from a lot line.10 ft

  If the sign is located at the corner of two rights-of-way, the sign may be placed no closer than ten feet to the corner property lines.

• Residential sign illumination requirements

  If illuminated and ground-mounted, the sign shall be illuminated by ground-mounted horizontal light bars/strips or ground-mounted spotlights. The ground-mounted lights shall be concealed by landscaping. In no case shall the lamps or bulbs from any type of lighting be visible nor shall glare be cast upon any adjacent property, or public or private right-of-way.

• Residential two signs maximum cumulative area32 sqftsq ftSquare feet. An acre is 43,560 sq ft; a typical suburban lot is 7,000–10,000.

  The cumulative size of the signs at each principal entrance may not exceed 32 square feet in area.

• Residential two signs maximum heightMaximum heightThe tallest a building may be, given in feet, in storeys, or both — whichever binds first.8 ft

  Each sign shall not exceed a height of eight feet above natural grade.