Portable signs
Additional requirements for portable signs defined as "Type B" for commercial establishments (also referred to as "A-frame sign" or "sandwich board"):
(1) Signs shall have no moving parts or lights and the sign face shall be no larger than seven square feet total size; displayed outside a business during business hours. It is not intended as permanent business signage.
(2) In the limited business, downtown and waterfront zones, signs may be placed on a sidewalk directly in front of the associated establishment without interfering or obstructing pedestrian traffic. The sign cannot use more than one-third of the width of a public sidewalk and must provide at least four feet of sidewalk clearance.
(3) Signs may not be anchored to the sidewalk or attached or chained to poles or other structures or appurtenances.
(4) Sign and frame shall not exceed 2.5 feet in width, with a maximum height of 3.5 feet. Within these specified maximum dimensions, creative shapes, that reflect the theme of the business are encouraged.
(5) The sign must be constructed of materials that present a finished appearance and kept maintained. Windblown devices including balloons may not be attached or otherwise made part of the sign. Chalkboard signs are permitted.
(6) Signs shall not be illuminated. The sign shall only be displayed during regular business hours and shall be removed at the end of the business day. Signs shall be weighed down or removed if winds gust to 20 miles per hour. Signs shall be removed when snow and ice are on the sidewalk.
(7) Any person erecting an A-frame sign shall, by erecting such a sign, agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Town of Bristol and its officers, agents, and employees from any claim arising out of the presence of the sign on the public right-of-way.
(8) A permit is not required for an A-frame sign.
(9) An A-frame sign erected in any area which does not comply with the rules of this chapter shall constitute a violation of the Zoning Ordinance and be subject to removal. The town may require removal of A-frame signs for special events.
(10) The purchase and placement of A-frame signs is not a substantial capital investment in the business being advertised. Upon repeal or modification of the regulations pertaining to these types of temporary signs that results in further restricting or prohibiting the same, then such signs shall not be legal non-conforming signs and such signs shall comply with all new regulations.
(Amend. of 1-27-21)
Editor's note— Amendment of Jan. 27, 2021, added § 38-374, and renumbered §§ 28-374—28-378 as §§ 28-375—28-379, as set out therein.