Council adopts rewritten temporary‑sign ordinance to remove content‑based language; sets setbacks, size and number limits

The Inver Grove Heights City Council on Oct. 13 adopted a revised temporary‑sign ordinance that replaces the city’s prior content‑based language and sets measurable, content‑neutral rules for placement, size and number of temporary signs.

Community Development Director Ziemer said the rewrite removes a campaign‑specific subsection that legal review determined could be content‑based and therefore vulnerable to constitutional challenge. Under the adopted code, temporary signs in residential and agricultural districts will be exempt from permit requirements if they meet standards: a 10‑foot setback from the back of curb or pavement edge, a maximum of four temporary signs per property (outside election periods) and a six‑square‑foot limit per sign. County and state roadway setback rules remain in effect where applicable.

Ziemer said staff increased the per‑sign size from an initial 3‑square‑foot proposal to 6 square feet to provide a more practical standard for homeowners and to keep the rule enforceable. The ordinance preserves a clear exception for the duration of election‑period rules constrained by state statute.

Council discussion focused on enforceability and homeowner expectations. Several members said a measurable curb setback is easier to enforce than “right‑of‑way” language, although some councilmembers and a resident urged staff to add public education and soft enforcement (door hangers, notices) before imposing penalties. Resident Kelly Kaeser told council she supported education and cautioned against heavy penalties for inadvertent violations.

City Administrator Wilson said enforcement will remain largely complaint‑based and staff plans educational outreach if the ordinance is adopted; council voted to pass the ordinance as written.