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Urbana council holds first reading of new sign ordinance with tighter rules for political signs
Summary
Council opened the first reading of Ordinance 4632-25 to repeal and replace Chapter 1137 (sign code), proposing consolidated rules, authority to remove right-of-way signs without notice, and a 45-day limit plus five-day post-election removal for political signs.
The Urbana City Council on Nov. 18 held the first reading of Ordinance 4632-25, a comprehensive rewrite of Chapter 1137 of the codified ordinances that would consolidate sign rules and clarify enforcement. Director of Administration Spencer Mitchell said the update combines language previously scattered across the code and refines definitions.
Key changes discussed include giving the city authority to remove signs placed in the right-of-way without prior notice, revising size requirements for certain sign types, and limiting political signs to 45 days with a required removal within five days after an election. Mrs. Bean, the council’s Planning Commission liaison, said she appreciated expanded definitions and clearer penalties. Mr. Thackery and others asked about enforcement; Director of Law Mark Feinstein said enforcement typically proceeds on a complaint-driven basis and that the city documents violations after referral. Ms. Jumper asked whether window signs are treated differently from yard signs; Feinstein said the code provides for different treatment.
The ordinance requires a public hearing and two more readings before adoption; council did not vote on it at the Nov. 18 meeting.
