By Robert C. Solera, Community Development Director

On March 15, 2007 the City of Sunny Isles Beach passed and adopted a revision to the Land Development Regulations (LDRs) Section 265-51, 265-56 and 265-57 that addresses: window signs definition, nonconforming window signs, temporary window signs, and directional signs.  

This article serves to provide information to new businesses as to the guidelines to be followed for the installation of window signs at their place of business.

The best option is to hire a sign contractor that is registered with the Building Department to do work within the city. A registered contractor will be able to determine, based on the code section, if the sign is in compliance or if any adjustments need to be made in order to comply.

The Land Development Regulation’s sign section of the Code is very specific about the types of signs that are allowed and what guidelines the signs must follow for approval. Based on the Code, the City Manager or designee may and can cause the removal of any sign that does not comply with the requirements of the Code.

Below is an insert of the code section regarding window signs:

Window sign (permanent).

(1) Approvals necessary: City Manager or designee.

(2) Maximum number: one per establishment.

(3) Maximum sign area: 20% of the total area of all windows on the elevation where the sign is to be located or 10 square feet, whichever is greater. The calculation of the permitted sign area shall exclude the address, hours of operation and licensing information which may be displayed on either the window or the door, but not both. [Amended 3-15-2007 by Ord. No. 2007-278]

(4) Illumination: prohibited.

(5) Design standards: All window signs must be furnished in a professional manner and professionally designed. Perimeter borders, stripes and bonding are permitted but will count towards the calculation of window sign area. No paper signs are permitted on the window or door unless the paper is within a professionally designed case attached to the window. [Added 3-15-2007 by Ord. No. 2007-278]

The Business License Inspector continues to enforce these regulations. In addition the Department via the issuance of the Business License informs new business owners of the regulations.

For more information regarding window signs or any other related question, please feel free to contact me at 305.792.1705.

You can also send a question via email through www.sibfl.net, Ask City Hall, Ask a Question.