Signage Regulations
Signage Regulations within the 1935-miami-dade-building-code establish strict guidelines for the erection, maintenance, and safety of signs, billboards, and poster-boards in the city-of-miami. These regulations aim to prevent traffic hazards, ensure structural integrity, and maintain public safety.
Prohibitions and Zoning
Billboards and general advertising signs are prohibited in R (Residential), B-1, and B-2 (Business) districts 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. In other districts, signs are only permitted if they do not constitute a traffic hazard or eyesore 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. A specific prohibition exists for any advertising devices on or abutting biscayne-boulevard between Northeast 13th Street and Northeast 54th Street, with exceptions for pre-existing signs 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Signs across public streets are entirely banned 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
Permitting and Licensing
Permits from the building-inspector are required for most projecting signs over 5 feet, bulletin boards, poster boards, and roof signs 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Signboards under 150 square feet announcing the business name or line of business do not require a permit if placed parallel to the building wall 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Temporary signs for property occupancy, sale, or rental under 60 square feet are also exempt 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Additionally, a license is required for any person making or painting signs 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
Construction and Safety Standards
All signs must be securely fastened using metal anchors, bolts, or chains; staples and wooden plugs are prohibited for projecting signs 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Large signs (over 2 feet high or 100 sq ft) must be made of metal or fireproof material 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Signs must not obstruct windows, doors, or fire escapes 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
Projecting Signs
Projecting signs have specific weight and projection limits:
- Maximum weight: 600 lbs (1000 lbs for vertical signs) 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
- Non-illuminated signs: Max 24 sq ft area, 5 ft projection 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
- Horizontal signs: Max 72 sq ft area, 11.5 ft projection 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
- Vertical signs: Max 5 ft projection from building line 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
Clearance from electrical conductors is critical: 18 inches for voltages under 750V, and 4 feet for higher voltages 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Projecting signs must be at least 8 feet above sidewalk grade 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
Roof Signs
Roof signs must be non-combustible if the bottom edge is 25 feet or more above ground 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. They cannot extend beyond the outer wall of the building and must be no more than 25 feet above the roof 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Electric roof signs must have at least 50% open work construction to reduce wind load 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.
Enforcement
The building-inspector can order unsafe signs to be made secure within 48 hours or face removal at the owner’s expense 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324. Violations, particularly on biscayne-boulevard, are considered prima facie evidence of violation by the property possessor 1935-Miami-Dade-Building-Code_p305_324.