If you are a local government official – a mayor, or a planner, or a city council member, or a municipal attorney, or a city manager, or on the economic development board, or a building inspector or code official – then chances are you've had to deal with your community's sign ordinance. And if you've done any work on a sign ordinance, then you know such work can be extremely complex and even controversial at times.
ISA can help you navigate through the many issues which arise when drafting and enforcing sign ordinances.
Call ISA's Helpline at 1-866-WHY-SIGN (1-866-949-7446) if you have any questions about the technical aspects of signage. We also have staff on hand who are well-versed in the various complexities associated with sign codes. We are happy to provide information and expertise to government officials as needed.
ISA recommendations the offers the following complimentary educational tools to local officials:
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Framework for On-Premise Sign Regulations: This model ordinance was drafted by prominent planners Alan Weinstein and David Hartt and contains the latest in technical and legal developments |
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An Evidence-Based Model Sign Code: This model sign code marks a collaborative effort between engineers, planners, architects, and business professionals from Texas A & M University, University of Florida, and the University of North Texas to prepare an innovative scheme for the regulation of on-premise commercial signage. |
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EMC Nighttime Brightness Recommendations: This brightness guide is based on peer-reviewed research by Dr. Ian Lewin of Lighting Sciences, Inc. Dr. Lewin is a leading lighting expert with over 30 years experience in the lighting industry. |
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Differences Between On-Premise and Off-Premise Signs: This chart provides a side-by-side comparison and contrast between on-premise and off-premise signs, which is helpful because each type of sign has very distinct capabilities and purposes, each targets a specific audience and each has traditionally been treated under separate legal and regulatory regimes. |
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ISA On the Issues: This document provides the official stand of the on-premise sign industry on the various legal, regulatory and technical issues involved in sign codes. |
ISA also provides, in conjunction with affiliated sign associations and The Signage Foundation Inc., day-long educational events for planners and other local officials on sign and sign code-related issues. In 2011, these events were held in Seattle, WA, Phoenix AZ, Dallas, TX and Albany, NY. Over 120 planners earned professional Continuing Education Credits (CEU) from attending and participating in these events. In 2012, similar educational events will be conducted in Memphis, TN, Tampa, FL, Indianapolis, IN and Orange County, CA. Please contact ISA’s David Hickey at david.hickey@signs.org if you have any questions about these events.