HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 17872-11-2007ORDINANCE NO.17872-11-2007
SIGN ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE ZO1~IING
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF FORT WORTH, BEING ORDINANCE
NO. 13896, AS AMENDED, CODIFIED AS APPENDIX "A" OF THE
CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT WORTH, BY AMENDING ARTICLE 4,
"SIGNS" OF CHAPTER 6, "DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS" TO
REPEAL THE LANGUAGE IN SECTIONS 6.400 THROUGH 6.406 AND
REPLACE WITH SECTIONS 6.400 THROUGH 6.416 CONTAINING
REVISED AND NEW LANGUAGE FOR REGULATING SIGNS;
PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE CUIVIITI.ATIVE;
PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY
CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION IN THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER; AND PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest
protecting the health, safety, welfare, convenience and enjoyment of the general public from
injury which may be caused by the unregulated construction of signs; and
WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest in
enhancing the economic value of the landscape by avoiding visual clutter which is potentially
harmful to property values and business opportunities; and
WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest in
promoting the safety of persons and property by providing that signs do not create a hazard due
to collapse, fire, collision, weather or decay; and
WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest in
protecting the safety and efficiency of the City's transportation network by reducing the
confusion or distraction to motorists and enhancing the motorists' ability to see pedestrians,
obstacles, other vehicles and traffic signs; and
WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest in
enhancing the impression of the City which is conveyed to tourists and visitors; and
WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest in
protecting adjacent and nearby properties from the impact of lighting, size, height and location of
signs; and
WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest in
preserving, protecting and enhancing areas of historical, architectural, scenic and aesthetic value,
regardless of whether they be cultural, natural or man-made; and
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WHEREAS the City Council of the City of Fort Worth has a substantial interest in
encouraging the removal of off-premise signs from designated scenic, cultural, architectural or
historic districts or corridors;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF FORT WORTH, TEXAS AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1.
Chapter 6, "Development Standards", Article 4 "Signs" of Ordinance No. 13896, the
Zoning Ordinance of the City of Fort Worth, is amended to repeal the language contained in
sections 6.400 through 6.406 and replace with new and revised language to be contained in
sections 6.400 through 6.416, to read as follows:
ARTICLE 4. "SIGNS"
6.400 Scope and Enforcement
This article is enacted to provide uniform standards for the location, spacing, height, lighting,
and other regulation of signs within the City of Fort Worth. This Article is adopted with specific
reference to the regulations contained in the Fort Worth Sign Code, Chapter 29, City Code, and
shall be enforced in conjunction with such code. The purpose of this Article is to protect the
health, safety, welfare, convenience and enjoyment of the general public from injury which may
be caused by the unregulated construction of signs. It is the intent of these regulations to achieve
the following:
1. Enhance the economic value of the landscape by avoiding visual clutter which is
potentially harmful to property values and business opportunities:
2. Promote the safety of persons and property by providing that signs do not create a hazard
due to collapse, fire, collision, weather or decay;
3. Protect the safety and efficiency of the City's transportation network by reducing the
confusion or distraction to motorists and enhancing motorists' ability to see pedestrians,
obstacles, other vehicles and traffic signs;
4. Enhance the impression of the City which is conveyed to tourists and visitors;
5. Protect adjacent and nearby properties from the impact of lighting, size, height and
location of signs;
6. Preserve, protect and enhance areas of historical, architectural, scenic and aesthetic value,
regardless of whether they be cultural, natural or man-made; and
7. Encourage the removal of off-premise signs from designated scenic, cultural,
architectural or historic districts or corridors.
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6.401 Definitions
Advertised message a~°ea. That portion of a sign used or intended to be used to display
commercial copy, convey information or to attract attention to the subject matter of such sign.
Commercial copy. A message or logo displayed on a sign which relates solely to the economic
interests of the advertiser and its audience; a message pertaining to price and product advertising,
goods and services.
non-adve~•tised message area. That portion of a sign not used or intended to be used to display
commercial copy, convey information or to attract attention to the subject matter of such sign.
P~°emises. A single tract or platted lot. In addition, multiple adjacent tracts or platted lots under
common ownership will be deemed to be a single premises if they meet the following
requirements:
1. Lots or tracts are not separated by intervening streets, alleys, utility or railroad rights-of-
way or other interruption;
2. Property contains a single primary use; and
3. Property is not used for one- or two-family residential purposes.
Tracts or platted lots that are at cross corners or that are connected by narrow strips of land too
small to serve as emergency access easements shall not be considered to be adjacent.
Sign. Any surface, fabric, device, display or visual medium, including the component parts,
which bears letters, pictorial forms or sculptured matter, including logos, used or intended to be
used to convey information or to attract attention to the subject matter of such sign. Graphics
painted upon the side of a building which carry no advertising shall not be construed to be a sign,
except where such graphics pictorially display products or business that convey an advertising
intent. The term "sign" includes the sign structure.
Sign, animated. A sign employing visible moving parts or the changing of colors.
Sign, attached. A sign which is affixed to, supported by or painted on a building.
Sign, banner. A temporary banner is a sign which is constructed of pliable materials such as
canvas, fabric, vinyl plastic or similar materials which will withstand exposure to wind and rain
without significant deterioration.
Sign, changeable copy. A sign that is characterized by changeable copy, letters, symbols or
numerals that are not permanently affixed to the structure, framing or background allowing the
letters, characters, or graphics to be modified from time to time manually or by electronic or
mechanical devices, such as but not limited to, a bulletin board, or electronic message board.
Changeable copy signs may not be used to display commercial messages relating to products or
services that are not offered on the premise.
Sign, detached. A sign which is supported by structures, supports or foundations in or upon the
ground and independent of support from any building.
Sign, flashing. A sign that contains an intermittent or sequential flashing light source.
Sign, freeway. A sign which is oriented to be viewed primarily from an adjacent non-signalized
freeway.
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Sign, illegal. Any sign erected, constructed, enlarged or altered which does not conform to the
provisions of the zoning ordinance, the sign code (chapter 29 of the City Code) or other
applicable ordinances in effect at the time of erection, construction, enlargement or alteration.
Sign, illuminated. Any sign iiltuninated in any manner by an artificial light source.
Sign, kiosk. Free-standing sign structure located in or adjacent to public right-of--way that
features a City of Fort Worth identification panel at the top of each structure and displays
directional information to new homes and municipal facilities and parks.
Sign, monument. Any sign in which a majority of the structure's width is in contact with the
ground.
Sign, no~zconfornzing. A sign that was lawfully installed in compliance with all city ordinances
applicable at the time of installation, but that does not comply with the current provisions of this
zoning ordinance, the sign code (chapter 29 of the City Code), or other applicable ordinances.
Sign, off-p~°enzises. A sign which advertises businesses, commodities, activities, services or
persons which are not usually available or present upon the premises upon which such sign is
located, or which directs persons to any location not on the premises. Any sign with more than
ten percent of the sign devoted to such use shall be deemed to be anoff-premises sign.
Sign, on premises. A sign which advertises the business name, owner and/or commodities,
activities or services offered on the premises where such sign is located and where at least ninety
(90) percent of the sign is devoted to the advertisement of such business name, owner,
commodities, activities or services.
Sign, pole. A detached sign which is supported by one or more poles in or upon the ground.
Sign, portable. A sign whose principal supporting structure is intended by design, use or
construction, to be used by resting upon the ground for support and which may be easily moved
or relocated for reuse. Portable signs shall include but not be limited to signs mounted upon or
designed to be mounted upon a trailer, bench, wheeled carrier or other non-motorized mobile
structure with or without wheels
Sign, pylon. A freestanding sign, which has at least fifty (50) percent of the sign structure width
in contact with the ground and in which the sign face is separated from ground level by means of
one or more supports such as poles, pole covers or columns.
Sign, revolving. A sign which revolves on, around, or about a structural support. A structural
support includes, but not limited to, a pole, building or other type of support. Revolving parts
within the sign shall not be construed as a revolving sign.
Sign, roof. Any sign erected, constructed or maintained on the roof of a building.
Sign, running light or twinkle. A sign with low wattage outline lighting that runs or twinkles.
Sign. Sexually Oriented Business: For the puzpose of Chapter 5, Article 2, Sexually Oriented
Businesses, "sign" means any on-premise display, design, pictorial, or other representation that is
constructed, placed, attached, painted, erected, fastened or manufactured in any manner
whatsoever so that it is visible from the outside of a sexually oriented business and used to seed
the attraction of the public to any goods, services, or merchandise available at the sexually
oriented business. The term "sign" also includes any representation painted on or otherwise
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affixed to any exterior portion of a sexually oriented business establishment or to any part of the
tract upon which the establishment is situated.
Sign structure. Any structure which supports or is intended to support any sign.
Sign, temporary. Any sign intended to be displayed for a limited period of time only, including
by way of example but not of limitation, any sign, banner, pennant, valance, or advertising
display constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard or other light materials,
with or without frames or wheels.
Sign, window. Any commercial copy sign located on the internal and or external surface of a
window or a glass door, or is located less than ten (10') feet from the window or a glass door of
any establishment for the purpose of being visible to and read from the outside of the building.
6.402 Scenic Preservation Areas and Corridors
A. Scenic Preservation Areas Established
The following scenic preservation areas are hereby established based on their scenic,
cultural, architectural or historic character. Generalized maps of these areas appear in
appendix B. For official maps of the districts, please contact the Planning and
Development Department. (See Sections 2.102 and 6.4138)
1. Fort Worth Stockyards National Register Historic District
2. Central Business District Scenic Preservation Area
3. Cultural District Scenic Preservation Area
4. Medical District Scenic Preservation Area
5. Fairmount/Southside Historic District
6. Elizabeth Boulevard National Register Historic District
7. Circle Park Conservation District
S. Grand Avenue National Register Historic District
9. Masonic Widows Orphans Home Historic District
10. Kenwood Court Historic District
B. Scenic Preservation Area Boundaries
All scenic preservation area boundary lines shall be measured to the centerlines of all
public or railroad rights-of--way bordering the areas.
C. Scenic Preservation Corridors Established
In addition to the areas established above, the following scenic preservation corridors are
designated based on their scenic, cultural, architectural or historic character. (See
Sections 2.102 and 6.4138)
Ar•ter•ial scenic corr•idor•s. Arterial scenic corridors shall be measured 200 feet from
each side of the public right-of--way of the following roadways.
a. North Main Street from the Historic Stockyards to Downtown.
b. Lancaster Avenue from Camp Bowie Boulevard to South Beach Street.
c. University Drive/North Side Drive/Oakhurst Scenic Drive from Granbury Road to
Bellcnap Street.
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d. Camp Bowie Boulevard from University Drive to I-30 (West Freeway).
e. Hemphill Street from A11en Avenue south to Felix Street.
f. Jacksboro Highway from Lake Worth (100 year floodplain, 600 feet elevation
above sea level) to the southerly end of Nine Mile Bridge Road and from S00 feet
north of the Municipal Golf Course to North Side Drive.
g. Randol Mill Road/lst Street from Haltom Road east to Bridgewood Drive and
from .2S miles east of Loop 820 East to John T. White Road.
h. East Berry Street from Mitchell Boulevard to Old Mansfield Highway.
i. South Hulen Street from Vickery Boulevard south to Loop 820 South.
j. Bryant Irvin Road from Vickery Boulevard south to Oakmont Boulevard.
k. Angle Avenue/Marine Creek Parkway from Loop 820 West (Jim Wright
Freeway) to Northwest 28th Street.
1. Evans Avenue from Terrell Avenue to East Berry Street.
m. Horne Street from I-30 to Vickery Boulevard.
n. Amanda Avenue from Ramey Street to East Rosedale Street.
o. South Riverside Drive from I-30 (East Freeway) to Wichita Street.
p. 4th Street from Downtown to South Riverside Drive.
q. East and West Rosedale from University Drive to Loop 820 East.
r. Seminary Drive from I-3SW (South Freeway) to Wichita Street.
s. Vickery Boulevard from I-3SW (South Freeway) to South Ayers Avenue.
t. White Settlement Road from University Drive to the city limits of Westworth
Village.
u. Trinity Railway Express corridor from the east Fort Worth city limit line west to
Downtown.
2. Freeway scenic corn°idors. Freeway scenic preservation corridors shall be measured
660 feet from each side of the public right-of--way of the following roadways:
a. I-3SW (North Freeway) from 28th Street exit south to the centerline of the Trinity
River.
b. I-30 (East Freeway) from Downtown east to Loop 820 East.
c. U.S. Hwy. 287 (Martin Luther King Freeway) from Downtown southeast to
Village Creek Road.
d. Loop 820 West (Jim Wright Freeway) from .2S miles north to .2S miles south of
Lake Worth (100 year floodplain, 600 feet elevation above sea level).
e. Loop 820 East from .2S miles north of the first bridge abutment north of Mosier
Lake to the southerly boundary of the 100 year floodplain of the West Fork of the
Trinity River (approximately 1S0 feet).
3. Future scenic corridor°s.
a. It is the intent of this section. that the future alignment of SH 121 will be
designated as a scenic preservation corridor upon determination of the final
alignment of such highway, after notice and hearing in accordance with Section
2.102. Such scenic corridor shall be 660 feet wide from each side of the public
right-of--way.
b. It is the intent of this section that in the event Jacksboro Highway (S.H.199) is
widened, the width of the scenic preservation corridor along Jacksboro Highway
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shall be increased to 660 feet wide from each side of the fmal alignment of the
public right-of--way, after notice and hearing in accordance with Section 2.102.
I~. Scenic Preservation Corridor Boundaries
When a corridor designated under this section ends at an intersection with aright-of--way
that is not designated as part of a corridor, the corridor shall terminate at the centerline of
the non-designated right-of--way.
6.403 Signs Not Requiring a Permit
The following signs are exempted from the requirements of this Article and may be erected or
constructed without a permit:
1. Signs on vehicles or trailers, provided, however, signs on vehicles or trailers that are
parked or located for the primary purpose of displaying the sign are prohibited pursuant
to Section 6.405 below.
2. Temporary signs, as follows:
a. Temporary decorative flags.
b. Temporary signs erected in accordance with temporary banner policy administered by
the Transportation and Public Works Department for signs in the public right-of--way,
large banner policy administered by the Parks and Community Services Department
for signs on park property, policy governing erection of banners on Main Street, and
other temporary banner policies achniivstered by City Departments or their designees.
3. Waxning, security and directional signs for parking or vehicle access.
4. Government signs, flags, insignia, legal notices or informational, directional or traffic
signs.
Political signs referring to the candidates or issues involved in a public election, subject
to the following conditions:
a. The sign is located on private real property with the consent of the property owner;
b. The sign does not exceed eight feet in height;
c. The sign may not have an effective area greater than 36 square feet;
d. The sign shall not be illuminated; and
e. The sign shall not contain any moving elements.
6. Signs in windows subject to the following:
a. Signs shall not exceed 10% of the window area, and
b. The window area shall be calculated by multiplying the window width times the
height of the window, with a maximum calculated height of 15 feet.
7. Other than electrical, all signs not visible from off the property.
8. Nameplate and street address signs not exceeding one square foot in area.
9. One non-illuminated real estate sign, temporary in nature, advertising the sale or lease of
real property on which the sign is located or announcing contemplated improvements of
real property on which the sign is located; provided, however, that said sign shall not
exceed eight square feet in area in any one- or two-family dwelling district or 60 square
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feet in area and eight feet in height in any other district; provided, fi~xther, however, on
corner lots and through lots, one such sign, shall be allowed for each street on which the
lot has frontage. The sign shall be removed within 30 days after the sale or occupancy of
the property.
10. One non-illuminated estate or garage sale sign, not to exceed two square feet in area,
temporary in nature, advertising the sale of items on property for which a garage sale
permit has been obtained. The sign shall be removed within 24 hours after the sale ends.
11. One construction sign, not exceeding four square feet in area in any one- or two-family
dwelling district or 40 square feet in area and 12 feet in height in any other district,
denoting the owner, architect, fmancial institution, general contractor, subcontractor or
any statement pertaining to the project on the real property on which the sign is located;
provided, however, on corner lots and through lots, one such sign shall be allowed for
each street on which the lot has frontage. The sign shall be removed within 30 days after
completion of the project.
12. "No Dumping," "No Trespassing," and "No Solicitation" signs.
13. Noncommercial residential signs. In addition to the other noncommercial signs permitted
by this article, a maximum of four signs not exceeding a total of 16 square feet in area
may be erected on any lot used for residential purposes and may contain noncommercial
copy. No one sign shall exceed eight square feet in area.
14. Signs depicting or relating to a national, local or religious holiday or season if installed
maintained or displayed for not more than 45 consecutive days.
15. Signs designed and used for display upon or with lighter than air objects, such as
balloons, or in conjunction with aircraft.
16. Signs of not more than two (2) square feet with a ground clearance of not more than four
(4) feet within twenty (20) feet of a driveway or other ingress/egress to private property
which restricts parking on said property. Corners of this type of sign shall be mitered or
rounded corner signs.
17. Signs erected by a public utility or transportation organization operating pursuant to a
franchise agreement with the City, where such signs are erected or displayed for the
purpose of public instruction, traffic control and similar uses incidental to the public
interest.
6.404 Temporary On-Premise Signs Requiring a Permit
All temporary signs not previously exempted under Section 6.403, including portable signs,
portable signs on trailers and banners, shall require a permit. Temporary signs are permitted
only in the "CF" Community Facilities and "ER" Neighborhood Commercial Restricted or less
restrictive districts. Temporary signs must meet all requirements of the Sign Code (Chapter 29
of the City Code), including pernutting requirements.
1. Signs shall be a maximum size of 60 square feet.
2. Only one such sign shall be allowed per business, not to exceed two signs per platted lot.
On lots with more than 300 feet of street frontage, one sign shall be allowed per business,
not to exceed three signs.
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3. No temporary signs shall be located within 100 feet of another temporary sign.
4. One temporary portable sign or banner shall be permitted for a period of 30 consecutive
days, provided only one sign or banner shall be permitted during the 30 day period and
there must be at least 30 days between the display of each sign or banner.
6.405 Prohibited signs
The following signs are expressly prohibited within the City of Fort Worth:
1. Off-premise signs, unless provisions for such signs are contained within these
regulations.
2. Signs erected in violation of City Building, Electrical or Sign Codes, or other applicable
local regulations.
3. Signs erected in violation of federal or state law.
4. Pole signs.
5. Portable signs, except those allowed under Section 6.404.
6. Animated signs, flashing signs, running message, twinkle or rnnning light signs, and
revolving signs or any other sign that moves. Electronic changeable copy signs may be
permitted by special exception from the Board of Adjustment in accordance with Section
6.411 below.
7. Signs illuminated to such intensity or brilliance as to cause glare or impair vision.
Lighting shall be shielded upward to prevent beams or rays from being directed at any
portion of a traveled roadway or an occupied residential area. Nothing herein shall be
construed to permit the lighting of signs near airports which would conflict with any
regulations adopted by the Federal Aviation Administration in the furtherance of air
safety. This requirement shall not apply to internally lit signs with a lighting intensity of
less than 150 foot lamberts.
8. Signs erected in or projecting into the public right-of--way unless an encroachment
agreement is executed in accordance with the requirements of the Sign Code (Chapter 29
of the City Code) and any other ordinances regulating encroachments.
9. Signs on vehicles or trailers that are parked or located for the primary purpose of
displaying the sign. It shall be prima facie evidence that the primary purpose of a vehicle
or trailer is to display a sign if the vehicle or trailer is parked on a site for a continuous
period exceeding 72 hours.
10. "V" type signs with a face that protrudes from the opposite face at an interior angle
greater than 25 degrees. This restriction shall not be construed to prevent oval,
cylindrical or box type signs.
11. Signs with sign structure larger than is reasonably necessary to support the sign.
Page 9 of 22
6.406 Measurement of Signs
A. Measurement of Detached Signs
The sign area for a detached on-premise sign shall be the area included within vertical
and horizontal line projections of the furthermost points of any logos, letters, or other
symbols, composed of the total area of the message, and any border, trim or surface upon
which the message is displayed. One sign area will be calculated for a detached sign no
matter how the message is displayed. The sign structure shall not be included in the sign
area unless there is a sign displayed thereon.
GRAPHIC LINK:Box sign
GRAPHIC LINK: Cylinder sign
GRAPIlIIC LINK:Multi-panel flat sign
GRAPHIC LINK:Multi-surface sign
B. Measurement of Attached Signs
The sign area for an attached on-premise sign shall be the area included within the
vertical and horizontal line projection of any logos, letters or other symbols intended to
be read together, composed of the total area of the message and any border, trim or
surface upon which the message is displayed. There may be several sign areas on the wall
of a building depending upon how a sign is displayed.
GRAPHIC LINK:Sin~le panel sign
GRAPHIC LINK:Multiple panel sign
GRAPHIC LINK:Painted sign
GRAPHIC LTNK:Individual letter sign
6.407 Relation to Zoning Districts
A. Signs in "AG," "Cp'," "MII" and residential districts. On-premises signs in
agricultural, community facilities, manufactured housing, and residential districts are
governed by the district regulations set out in the respective district regulations in
Chapter 4.
B. Signs in Commercial and Industrial Districts. Signs located in commercial and
industrial districts shall conform to the regulations in Sections 6.408 and 6.409.
C. Signs in Planned Development Districts. Signs located in planned development districts
shall conform to the regulations in Section 4.300.
D. Signs in Conservation Overlay Districts. Regulations for signs located within
conservation districts shall be in accordance with Section 4.400. However, unless
indicated otherwise the most restrictive sign regulations shall be followed.
E. Signs in Urban Design Districts. Signs located within the boundaries of an Urban
Design District shall be generally exempt from the regulations of this Article and shall be
in accordance with the pertinent district standards of the Zoning Ordinance. However,
the most restrictive sign regulations contained in this Article shall apply unless otherwise
indicated in the pertinent district standards. No off-premise signs shall be allowed.
Page 10 of 22
F. Signs in Special Purpose Districts.
1. Agricultural Districts
On-Premise signs are permitted as follows:
i. An illuminated nameplate bearing the family name of the occupants residing in
the residence not to exceed one square foot in area.
ii. Anon-illuminated sign for those uses that are not residential. The sign shall not
exceed 30 square feet in area, shall be no higher than 25 feet above grade, and
shall be placed a minimum of 10 feet behind the property line. Such sign shall
not be placed within 20 feet of drives providing ingress and egress to the property.
2. Community Facilities
Identification signs shall be permitted subject to the following provisions:
i. Signs shall be permitted to identify the use or uses of the property on which
displayed.
ii. a sign or combination of signs shall have a maximum allowable area of exposure
along each dedicated street frontage of not more than one square foot of sign area
for each 10 linear feet of frontage along said street; provided, however, a
minimum of at least one sign shall be allowed having an area of 12 square feet.
iii. Not more than 50 percent of the total allowable sign area may be located in the
required yard space along a dedicated street. However, no individual sign in such
required space shall exceed 20 square feet in sign area.
iv. Symbols which are designed as an integral part of the building structure and
symbols which are not visible or readable from the public street shall not be
limited by the above regulations.
v. Signs located across the street from none-family or two-family district shall not
be illuminated. The source of light for illuminated signs shall not be visible and
shall not be intermittent or flashing. Revolving signs shall not be permitted.
3. Manufactured Housing.
An identifying sign shall be permitted at each major entrance to the manufactured
home park except that no more than three signs shall be permitted for one park, and
such shall be subject to the following provisions:
i. Each sign shall contain only the identifying name of the park and its street
address.
ii. Signs may be illuminated but the source of light shall not be visible and shall not
be intermittent or flashing; revolving signs shall not be permitted. Signs shall not
be lighted between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
iii. Such signs may be freestanding but shall have not more than two supports and the
top of each sign shall be no more than 8 feet above the grade.
6.408 Regulations Governing On-Premise Attached Signs in Commercial and Industrial
Districts
Unless exempted under the provisions of Section 6.403, the following regulations shall apply to
all attached on-premise signs erected in districts "E" through "K," except for signs for large retail
stores which are subject to Section 5.134A.7.
A. The following size limits apply to buildings occupied by a single tenant and to individual
tenant spaces in buildings with multiple tenants. One or more attached signs may be
erected on each facade of the occupied space. The signs may have a total area of 10% of
Page 11 of 22
the area of the facade to which the signs are attached, with a maximum aggregate area of
500 square feet per facade. Doors and windows shall be included in the calculation of the
facade area. The facade area shall be calculated by multiplying the width times the
height, with a maximum calculated height of 15 feet. For structures exceeding 15 feet in
height, allowable sign square footage shall be calculated as 1.5 square feet per linear foot
of building facade.
B. Length of an attached sign is limited to 75% of the lineal footage of the building or
commercial space, whichever is less.
C. The entire length and height of backlit avv~iings in which the lighting causes the
illumination of the awning, of which the length will be limited to subsection B above,
will be counted toward the allowed square footage of attached signs.
D. Signs shall not project more than three (3) feet from the building or canopy. No sign
projection shall encroach over public property except as permitted by the Sign Code
(Chapter 29 of the City Code).
E. Signs maybe installed upon the roof subject to the following conditions:
1. The area of the sign shall not exceed 10 percent of the area of the closest wall of the
building above which the sign is placed.
2. The sign shall not exceed four feet above the roof or top of the parapet wall at the
roof, whichever is higher.
3. All roof signs placed upon a building or buildings upon one platted lot shall be
similar in size, shape, area, and design.
F. A maximum of 1,340 square feet of attached on-premise signage shall be allowed,
regardless of the number of facades or buildings associated with a single business or
tenant.
6.409 Regulations Governing ®n-Premise Detached Signs in Commercial and Industrial
Districts
Unless exempted under the provisions of Section 6.403, the following regulations shall apply to
all detached on-premise signs erected in districts "E" through "K", except for signs for large
retail stores subject to Section 5.134A.8 and for signs in mixed-use districts which are
additionally subject to Section 4.902D.3, Section 4.903D.3, Section 4.1001D.3, and Section
4.1002D.3.
A. Types of Detached Signs
1. Monument signs are permitted by right.
2. Pylon signs are only permitted as part of a unified sign agreement, per Section 6.410.
3. Freeway signs are only permitted on property immediately adjacent to a designated
freeway.
B. Monument Signs
1. Maximum height: 8 feet
2. Maximum width: 16 feet
3. Maximum advertised message area: 96 square feet
4. Minimum ground contact: 75% of structure's width
Page 12 of 22
C. Pylon Signs
1. Maximum height: 8 feet at the right-of--way line and one additional foot in height for
each one foot of setback, up to 25 feet. Set back sign one foot for each foot in height
from all adjacent property lines.
2. Maximum width: 16 feet
3. Maximum advertised message area: 300 square feet
4. Minimum ground contact: 50% of structure's width
D. Freeway Signs
1. Maximum height: 25 feet allowed at the right-of--way line and one additional foot in
height for each one foot of setback, up to 35 feet. Set back sign one foot for each foot
in height from all adjacent property lines. (Administrative approval allowed for up to
50 feet in height to allow sign to be 20 feet above adjacent main travel lanes of
freeway.)
2. Maximum width: 24 feet
3. Maximum advertised message area: 320 square feet
4. Minimum ground contact: 25% of structure's width
E. One detached sign may be erected on each platted lot or on property which is subject to a
unified sign agreement executed in accordance with 6.410. Additional signs may be
erected under the following circumstances:
1. On corner lots and through lots and on corner tracts and through tracts that are subject
to a unified sign agreement, one sign shall be allowed on each street on which the
property has frontage;
2. On lots having more than 100 feet of street frontage, more than one detached sign
may be installed provided that such signs are at least 100 feet apart and the total area
of all signs does not exceed the maximum allowable sign area set forth in paragraph F
below; and
3. On properly subject to a unified sign agreement having more than 300 feet of street
frontage, more than one detached sign may be installed provided that such signs are at
least 300 feet apart and the total area of all signs does not exceed the maximum
allowable sign area set forth in paragraph B below.
F. The maximum allowable sign area shall be the lesser of one square foot of signage per
linear foot of street frontage, or:
1. 120 square feet for minor arterials or neighborhood streets;
2. 165 square feet for major arterials;
3. 195 feet for principal arterials;
4. 600 square feet for freeways or toll roads.
Street types are as defined in the most recently adopted/amended Master Thoroughfare
Plan.
G. A minimum of 25% of the sign face, excluding the base, shall contain non-advertised
message area (see defmition). The non-advertised message area shall be of construction
materials similar to the building and shall be non-illuminated.
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6.410 Unified Sign Agreements for ®n-Premise Signs
The City Council or Planning and Development Director may authorize the consideration of a
single premise of two or more adjacent lots or two or more lots that are separated only by right-
of-way for the purpose of erecting on-premise signs, if a unified sign agreement is approved and
executed in accordance with this section.
A. Lots Eligible for Unified Sign Agreement. In order to be considered to be adjacent, lots
must be immediately adjacent to each other and not at cross corners or connected by
narrow strips of land too small to serve as emergency access easements. Lots separated
by right-of--way must be directly across the right-of--way and, except for the right-of--way,
must be adjacent and not at cross corners or connected by narrow strips of land too small
to serve as emergency access easements.
B. Criteria for Approval. In deciding whether to approve multiple lots as a single premise,
the following criteria shall be considered:
1. All areas to be combined in the unified sign agreement must be part of a clearly
defined unified commercial or industrial development constructed as a single
destination point for customers and visitors. Attributes of a unified commercial or
industrial development include:
a. Common name identification to the public;
b. Shared parking provided throughout the development;
c. Sign structures utilized for shared signage, including identification of the
common name of the development;
d. Physical layout of the development results in a cohesive development; and
e. The area should not be the combination of disparate premises joined solely for
the purpose of initiating a unified sign agreement.
2. The signage proposed pursuant to a unified sign agreement must demonstrate an
overall reduction in sign clutter as evidenced by a reduction of 50% in the number of
signs that would be allowed in the absence of a unified sign agreement.
3. No more than 50% of the advertised message area maybe used by one tenant.
4. A unified sign agreement shall be authorized only in an "E" or more intensive zoning
district.
5. Property can be subject to only one unified sign agreement.
C. Allowed Signage
1. Upon approval of a unified sign agreement, all existing signs shall be removed or
brought into compliance with this paragraph. All new signs constructed pursuant to
the agreement and all existing signs remaining on the property shall comply with this
paragraph. Existing signs shall not be considered to be nonconfornung as a result of
erection of signs in accordance with the agreement.
2. Within the area of the unified sign agreement, spacing between detached signs shall
be a minimum of 300 feet.
3. The allowed size and height of signs shall be calculated as provided for in Section
6.407 above, except that the length and width of any right-of--way separating lots
within the area shall not be counted toward allowable sign square footage.
Page 14 of 22
D. Sign Plan Required
1. A sign plan covering the entire area included in the unified sign agreement shall be
submitted to the Planning and Development Director for approval. The sign plan shall
contain the following information:
a. The location, size, and height of all existing and proposed signs;
b. Description of development within the area of the unified sign agreement
demonstrating the attributes of a unified commercial or industrial development as
described in paragraph B.1; and
c. Demonstrated compliance with paragraph B.2 showing an overall reduction in
sign clutter as evidenced by a reduction of 50% in the number of detached signs.
2. A copy of the sign plan shall be attached to the unified sign agreement and may be
amended only with the approval of the City Council, upon compliance with the
requirements set out in paragraphs C and D.
E. Findings. The Planning and Development Director may administratively approve a
unified sign agreement, if on the basis of the sign plan submitted the Director finds that
all of the above requirements are met without any variances. Should the Director fmd
variances from the above requirements are necessary for height, size or location,
consideration of the variance(s) shall be before the Board of Adjustment with final
approval of the unified sign agreement by the City Council.
F. Notice of Decision. Upon review of a unified sign agreement requesting a variance or an
amendment of a unified sign agreement by the Planning and Development Director,
notice shall be sent by regular United States Mail to all property owners within 300 feet
of the boundaries of the area included in the agreement, as indicated on the most recently
approved municipal tax roll. Such notice shall provide a description of the unified sign
agreement and the location of the area included in the agreement. The notice shall be
mailed no later than 30 days prior to consideration of the agreement by the City Council.
G. Execution, Amendment, Termination and Filing of Unified Sign Agreements.
1. The unified sign agreement shall:
a. Contain the names and addresses of the owners and the legal descriptions of all
properties within the unified sign agreement;
b. State that all parties agree that the properties covered by the agreement may be
collectively treated as a single premise for the limited purpose of determining the
number, size and location of on-premises signs permitted in accordance with this
section;
c. State that the agreement constitutes a covenant running with the land with respect
to all properties subject to the agreement;
d. State that all parties agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City of Fort
Worth from and against all claims or liabilities arising out of or in connection
with the agreement;
e. State that the agreement will be governed by the laws of the state of Texas;
f. State that the agreement may be amended or terminated only in accordance with
paragraph b. below;
g. Be approved by the City Council or Planning and Development Director and
approved as to form by the City attorney;
h. Be signed by all owners of the properties included in the agreement; and
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i. Be signed by all lien holders, other than taxing entities that have either an interest
in the lots covered by the agreement or an improvement on those properties.
2. A unified sign agreement maybe amended or terminated as follows:
a. The amendment or termination agreement shall be executed by all owners of the
properties included in the unified sign agreement, and all lien holders, other than a
taxing entity, that have an interest in land covered by the agreement or an
improvement on such land.
b. A termination agreement shall be approved by the City Council if all signs on the
property governed by the agreement are in compliance with city sign regulations,
as if no unified sign agreement had been executed. Any signs that are not in
compliance shall be removed or brought into compliance prior to approval of the
agreement by the City Council.
c. In considering whether to approve an amendment to a unified sign agreement, the
City Council shall consider the criteria for approval of unified sign agreements set
out in paragraph B.
3. A unified sign agreement or an agreement to amend or terminate such an agreement is
not effective until the agreement is approved by the City Council and approved as to
form by the City attorney, the agreement is filed in the deed records in the county in
which the property is located, and two file-marlced copies of the agreement are
delivered to the Planning and Development Director.
6.411 Electronic Changeable Copy Signs
Electronic changeable copy signs may be permitted by special exception of the Board of
Adjustment in commercial, industrial, mixed-use, and community facility zoning districts,
subject to the following conditions:
A. A maximum of 25% of the sign face maybe devoted to changeable copy.
B. The message rate shall not change at a rate faster than one message every 20 seconds and
the interval between messages shall be a minimum of one second.
C. Changeable copy signs shall not contain animation, rolling or n,nning letters or message,
flashing lights or displays as part of the display.
Changeable copy signs may not be used to display commercial messages relating to products or
services that are not offered on the premises.
6.412 Sales Office and Model Home Signs
Sales office and model home signs (signs identifying a developer's sales office/model home
sites) are subject to the following:
1. Signs shall not exceed a maximum size of 32 square feet.
2. Signs shall be not exceed a maximum height of 6 feet.
3. No sign shall be illuminated between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
4. Only one sign advertising a model home may be permitted per builder in the
subdivision.
5. Sign must be located on the site of the model home/sales office and shall be set back
a minimum often (10) feet from the public right of way.
6. Model home sign shall be allowed only after a certificate of occupancy has been
issued for the model home.
Page 16 of 22
7. No sign may be erected for more than two years.
8. Signs shall meet all requirements of the Sign Code (chapter 29 of the City Code),
including permitting requirements.
6.413 Nonconforming Signs
A. Permitted Alteration of Nonconforming Signs. A nonconforming sign may be altered
only as follows, subject to complying with permitting requirements set out in the Sign
Code (Chapter 29 of the City Code):
1. The sign maybe upgraded in accordance with paragraph B below;
2. Advertising copy, including letters, symbols, or other matter on the sign, may be
changed, including the exchange of display faces that are designed to be
interchangeable to facilitate the display of advertising copy; provided, however,
display faces that are designed to be permanently attached to the supporting sign
structure may be replaced only with display faces composed of like materials, e.g., a
plywood display face may be replaced only with a plywood display face: Display
faces may be replaced only with display faces that are the same size or smaller than
the size initially registered as of January 2, 1998, in accordance with Section 29-31 of
the sign code, plus cut-out extensions that do not exceed 20 percent of the registered
sign area. The temporary use of a sign with a display face that is smaller than the size
that was initially registered shall not bar the replacement of the display face with a
larger display face, provided that it shall not exceed the size reflected in the initial
registration. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, vinyl, paint, or pasted
paper maybe affixed to a display face composed of any material;
3. A sign which has been blown down or otherwise destroyed by wind, fire or damages
from any other source, may be repaired, provided that the cost of repairing the sign is
60 percent of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at the same location, or
less. If the cost of repairing the sign is more than 60 percent of the cost of erecting a
new sign of the same type at the same location, the sign may not be altered,
reconstructed, repaired or replaced, and the owner shall remove the sign or bring it
into compliance with the zoning ordinance, the Sign Code (Chapter 29 of the City
Code) and all other applicable ordinances.
4. Maintenance operations may be performed on the sign. For purposes of this section,
"maintenance operations" means the process of keeping a sign in good repair.
Maintenance operations include: (1) cleaning; (2) painting; (3) repair of parts with
like materials in a manner that does not alter the basic design or structure of the sign,
provided that the cost of all repairs performed during any consecutive 365-day period
is not more than 60 percent of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at the
same location; and (4) replacement of parts with like materials in a manner that does
not alter the basic design or structure of the sign, provided that the cost of all
replacement of parts performed during any consecutive 365-day period is not more
than 60 percent of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at the same
location. The 365-day period limitation shall not apply to a sign that has been blown
down or otherwise destroyed as described in paragraph 3 above. Examples of actions
that are not maintenance operations and are therefore prohibited include, without
limitation: (1) converting a sign from a multiple pole structure to a monopole
structure; (2) replacing wooden components with metal components; (3) increasing
Page 17 of 22
the area or height of a sign, except for increases in area permitted under paragraph 2
above; (4) adding illumination to a non-illuminated sign; (5) adding additional
display faces; and (6) converting a sign to utilize animated display or moveable copy
technology, including but not limited to signs featuring Tri-Vision technology and (7)
updating the technology in an already existing animated display or moveable copy
signs. If a sign is dismantled for any purpose other than an alteration or maintenance
operation permitted hereunder, the sign may not be altered, reconstructed, repaired or
replaced, and the owner shall remove the sign or bring it into compliance with this
ordinance, the Sign Code (Chapter 29 of the City Code) and all other applicable
ordinances.
5. All other alterations of any nature whatsoever in connection with nonconforming
signs are prohibited. If any such alteration is performed, the owner shall remove the
sign or bring it into compliance with the comprehensive zoning ordinance, the Sign
Code (Chapter 29 of the City Code) and all other applicable ordinances. The cost of
any accessory use to a sign, including without limitation a communication antenna
and support facilities, shall not be included in calculating the cost of erecting a new
sign at the same location pursuant to paragraphs 3 and 4 above.
B. Upgrading Existing Off-Premises Signs. In order to encourage the removal of off-
premises signs from designated scenic areas and corridors, an owner may upgrade an
existing off-premises sign, with City Council approval, under the conditions set out
below.
1. Definition of "upgrading." For purposes of this section, "upgrading" means making
any change to an existing off-premises sign, other than repairs and maintenance
operations permitted pursuant to paragraph A above, provided, however, signs
erected on buildings and multiple signs located within 25 feet of each other on the
same structure or separate structures shall not be upgraded. Upgrading of off-
premises signs shall be permitted only in areas that have not been designated as a
scenic area or corridor pursuant to Section 6.402. Upgrading of off-premises signs in
designated scenic areas is prohibited.
2. Calculation of credits for removal of off-premises signs.
a. Any person wishing to upgrade anoff-premises sign must remove four off-
premises signs from designated scenic areas or corridors and must have square
footage credits, as defined below, equal to the size of the sign to be upgraded. No
credit will be given for signs that have not been registered in accordance with
Section 29-31 of the Sign Code (Chapter 29 of the City Code).
b. The Plamung and Development Department shall create an account for each sign
owner showing the date of removal and the location and dimensions of the signs
removed. The account shall reflect two types of sign credits, as follows:
i. One-fourth credit for each off-premises sign that is removed ("structure
credit"); and
ii. One-fourth credit for each square foot of display area that is removed,
excluding cut-out extensions ("square footage credit"). The number of square
footage credits awarded shall be equal to the display area of the sign, and shall
not be increased if copy is displayed on more than one side of the sign.
c. Any sign credits not used within five years of their creation shall expire.
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d. A sign owner may transfer sign credits; provided, however, the transfer does not
extend the five year term of such credits.
3. Use of sign credits for upgrading off-premises sign. A pernut to upgrade an off-
premises sign shall be issued only if the applicant has at least one structure credit and
sufficient square footage credits. When the permit to upgrade the existing sign is
issued, the development department shall deduct from the sign owner's account:
a. One (1) structure credit for each sign to be upgraded; and
b. Square footage credits equal to the square footage of display area of the sign to be
upgraded.
Example: One 672 square foot sign (with advertising copy on one side only or on
both sides) can be upgraded by using one structure credit and 672 square footage
credits. In order to earn one structure credit and 672 square footage credits, it would
be necessary to remove four off-premises signs with display areas totaling 2,688
square feet.
4. Procedure for removal of off-premises signs. Any person wishing to obtain sign
credits for removal of anoff-premises sign shall submit written notice of intent to
remove the sign to the development department, before taking any action to remove
the sign. The notice shall be submitted on a form provided by the development
department. No sign credits shall be awarded for any off-premises sign that is
removed before the notice of intent is submitted to and accepted by the development
department, except as set forth below. Eligibility for credit shall be determined as
follows:
a. Illegal signs. No sign credits will be awarded for removal of illegal off-premises
signs.
b. Nonconforming signs that have been illegally altered. No sign credits will be
awarded for illegally altered nonconforming signs that are required to be removed
in accordance with paragraph A.
c. Signs removed pur°suant to eminent domain. No sign credits will be awarded for
removal of signs for which compensation is paid pursuant to eminent domain
proceedings.
d. Removal of damaged nonconfo~°ming signs. No sign credits will be awarded for
the removal of a nonconforming sign that is blown down or otherwise destroyed
by wind, fire or damages from any other source, where the cost of repairing the
sign is more than 60 percent of the cost of erecting a new sign of the same type at
the same location. If the damaged nonconforming sign can be repaired at a cost of
60 percent or less of the cost of erecting a new sign, the owner may elect to repair
the sign. In the alternative, the owner may remove the sign and receive sign
credits for the removal. The owner shall submit a notice of intent to the
development department before removing the sign, unless the immediate removal
of the damaged sign is required because it presents a safety hazard.
5. No increase in area or height. An off=premises sign with a display area exceeding
672 square feet that is upgraded in accordance with this section shall be reduced to no
larger than 672 square feet. The display area of a sign that is 672 square feet or less in
size may not be increased as a result of the upgrade. No height increase is allowed for
any upgraded sign.
Page 19 of 22
6. Zoning Commission recommendation and City Council approval required. The
zoning commission shall conduct a public hearing on the upgrade request and shall
submit its recommendation to the city council. No off-premises sign maybe upgraded
without city council approval after a public hearing. Notice of the zoning commission
and city council hearings shall be given in accordance with Section 3.502.
7. No violation of federal or state law. Nothing herein shall permit a nonconforming
sign to be upgraded in violation of any federal or state law.
6.414 Kiosk Signs
Kiosk signs provide a uniform, coordinated method of providing homeowners, developers and
municipalities a means of utilizing directional signs, while minimizing the negative impacts to
the City and its residents. Kiosk signs shall be used for homebuilder, developer and subdivision
directional signage. Kiosk signs are also intended to provide service to the public on directions
to municipal facilities and parks.
A. The Planning and Development Director may approve and permit kiosk signs subject to
the following requirements and limitations:
1. All kiosk signs and individual sign panels must have approval by the City. Fees for
kiosk signs shall be as set forth in Chapter 25 of the City Code.
2. Placement and installation of kiosk signs must be in accordance with specifications.
A site plan must be submitted to the Planning and Development Department for
review and approval. The Department of Transportation and Public Works must
approve the location of all kiosk signs prior to installation.
3. Sign structures shall be located at least 100 feet apart from each other, excluding
signs located across a street from each other.
4. Directional kiosk signs shall not obstruct the use of sidewalks and walkways, and
shall not obstruct visibility triangles designated by the City for vehicles, pedestrians
or traffic control signs.
5. In the event a kiosk sign is not constructed within sixty (60) days after the date of
issuance of a kiosk sign permit, such permit shall expire.
6. Kiosk sign structures shall be ladder type with individual sign panels of uniform
height and background color. Dimensions shall be as follows:
a. 6' x 4'
b. 8' x 4'
c. 10' x 4'
d. 12' x 4'
7. Kiosk signs may be located on private properly, provided written permission is
obtained from the properly owner. Such kiosk signs shall not exceed the dimensions
of 4' x 12' in height.
8. Kiosk signs shall not be illuminated.
Page 20 of 22
9. Kiosk signs installations shall include break away design features as required in right
of way areas, as depicted in Texas Department of Transportation's Sign Mounting
Details for Roadside Signs.
10. No signs, pennants, flags or other devices for visual attention or other appurtenances
shall be placed on the directional kiosk signs.
11. In the event the contractor/developer is unable to provide a kiosk sign for infill or
smaller development tracts, the developer may work with the Planning and
Development Director or designee to develop a signage plan for that particular
development.
B. Services Contract: The City Council may, by a duly executed services contract, grant to
a qualified person or company the right to design, erect and maintain directional kiosk
signs within the City.
6.415 Noncommercial copy
Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, any sign authorized under this article
to contain commercial copy may contain noncommercial copy in lieu of commercial copy.
SECTION 2.
This ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances and of the Code of the
City of Fort Worth, Texas (1986), as amended, except where the provisions of this ordinance are in
direct conflict with the provisions of such ordinances and such Code, in which event conflicting
provisions of such ordinances and such Code are hereby repealed.
SECTION 3.
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City Council that the sections, paragraphs,
sentences, clauses and phrases of this ordinance are severable, and, if any phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph or section of this ordinance shall be declared unconstitutional by the valid judgment or
decree of any court of competent jurisdiction, such unconstitutionality shall not affect any of the
remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs and sections of this ordinance, since the same
would have been enacted by the City Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of any
such unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or section.
SECTION 4.
Page 21 of 22
Any person, firm or corporation who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects or refuses to comply
with or who resists the enforcement of any of the provisions of this ordinance shall be fined not
more than Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00) for each offense. Each day that a violation exists
shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 5.
All rights and remedies of the City of Fort Worth, Texas, are expressly saved as to any and
all violations of the provisions of Ordinance No. 13896 which have accrued at the time of the
effective date of this ordinance and, as to such accrued violations and all pending litigation, both
civil and criminal, whether pending in court or not, under such ordinances, same shall not be
affected by this ordinance but may be prosecuted until final disposition by the courts.
SECTION 6.
The City Secretary of the City of Fort Worth, Texas, is hereby directed to publish the
caption, penalty clause and effective date of this ordinance for two (2) days in the official
newspaper of the City of Fort Worth, Texas, as authorized by Section 52.013, Texas Local
Government Code.
SECTION 7.
This ordinance shall take effect upon adoption and publication as required by law.
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
Assistant City Attorney
ADOPTED: November 6 2007
EFFECTIVE:
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