Taneytown City Council enacted a 21-page commercial sign law Monday that, according to the preamble, should "preserve and strengthen the ambience and character of the city."

The law, which takes effect in 10 days, bans billboards, searchlights, roof signs, streamers and inflatable figures 3 feet or larger, and signs placed on vehicles or utility poles and trees. Display signs may be used for the identification of a business only and are restricted to the business site.

Signs are to be "compatible with the character of existing architecture and the fabric of development," the law says.

This means, according to the law's preamble, that "all signs within one complex are to be coordinated with the architecture in such a manner that the overall appearance is harmonious in color, form and proportion."

The law is based on recommendations of a citizens committee appointed last spring to draft sign regulations.

Pub Date: 11/12/98