§ 9-1009. Maintenance of signs and required permits.

A.

All signs and all components thereof, including, without limitation, supports, braces, and anchors, shall be kept in a state of good repair. Components of freestanding signs, (e.g., supporting structures, backs, etc.) not bearing a message shall be constructed of materials that blend with the natural environment or shall be painted a neutral color to blend with the natural environment.

B.

If an off-premises sign, other than a billboard, advertises a business, service, commodity, accommodation, attraction, or other enterprise or activity that is no longer operating or being offered or conducted, that sign shall be considered abandoned and shall, within ninety (90) days after such abandonment, be removed. The cost for removal shall be the responsibility of the property owner.

C.

If the message portion of a sign is removed, leaving only the supporting "shell" of a sign or the supporting braces, anchors, or similar components, the owner of the sign or the owner of the property where the sign is located or other person having control over such sign shall, within ninety (90) days of the removal of the message portion of the sign, either replace the entire message portion of the sign or remove the remaining components of the sign. This subsection shall not be construed to alter the effect of section 9-1010, which prohibits the replacement of a nonconforming sign. Nor shall this subsection be construed to prevent the changing of the message of a sign.

D.

A zoning permit for a sign shall lapse automatically if the business license for the premises lapses, is revoked, or is not renewed. A zoning permit for a sign shall also lapse if the business activity on the premises is discontinued for a period of ninety (90) days or more.

E.

All temporary feather signs, signs, or banners shall be maintained in a state of good repair. Any feather signs, signs, or banners which are in a state of disrepair for a period of three (3) days or longer after notification to the owner by the county shall be taken down or repaired or are subject to immediate removal and disposal by an authorized county agent or official as a nuisance. For the purposes of this ordinance disrepair shall include, but is not limited to:

1.

Feather signs, signs or banners which have fallen and are not returned to their display position;

2.

Feather signs, signs or banners which are ripped, torn, or broken;

3.

Areas where landscaping surrounding feather signs, signs, or banners is not maintained. (3-14-18.)