Page 56 - Des Moines - Zoning, Planning and Design Ch 134, 135

134-5. SiGNS DRAFT

Nonconforming Signs

of largest sign face is the area of the sign (see B. Nits. For the purpose of verifying compliance with
Figure 5.10-I). maximum brightness level limits expressed in nits
4. Non-planar Signs (candelas per square meter), brightness levels must
Spherical, free-form, sculptural or other non- be measured with the dynamic display set to run full
planar sign area is measured as 50% of the sum white copy with a luminance meter positioned at a
of the areas using only the 4 vertical sides of the location perpendicular to the sign face center. When
smallest 4-sided polyhedron that will encompass taking the luminance reading, the sign face must be
the sign structure. Signs with greater than 4 the only subject visible in the viewfinder.
5.9.5 WiNDOW AreA
The area of a window includes only the glass or glazed
elements of the window. Frames, mullions and similar
features are not counted as part of the window area
(see Figure 5.10-N).

Figure 5.10-L. Area of Non-Planar Sign
polyhedron faces are prohibited (see Figure
5.10-L).
5.9.2 SiGN HeiGHt
The height of a sign is measured as the vertical distance

Figure 5.10-N. Window Area

134-5.10 Nonconforming Signs

See section 134-7.6.
Figure 5.10-M. Sign Height

from ground level at the base of the sign to the highest
point of the sign (see Figure 5.10-M).

5.9.3 SetBAcK, SPAciNG AND SePArAtiON
DiStANceS
unless otherwise expressly stated, required setback,
spacing and separation distances between signs must
be measured in a straight line from the nearest points
on the respective signs or sign structures. Required
separation distances between signs and zoning
districts, area or lots must be measured in a straight
line from the nearest point on the sign structure to the
nearest point of the subject district, area or lot.

5.9.4 illUMiNAtiON AND lUMiNANce
A. Foot-candles. Sign illumination in foot-candles is
measured 2 feet from the sign face.

134-5-14 DRAFT AuguST 3, 2017