MEMO TO:  Properties Displaying Banners
 
FROM:        Code Enforcement Office
 
DATE:        October 22, 2014
 
RE:            Banners
 
Banners are regulated by the Town, because they're a form of signage which meets the sign definition in the Town's Sign Ordinance.  This includes "feather" banners which are mounted on poles, flutter in the wind, and have business names/logos, brand names of products, or messages on them:  
 
"Sign" (§11-3.8):
 
        "Every device, frame, letter, figure, character, mark, plane, point, design, picture, stroke, stripe, trademark or reading matter, including awnings containing identification or advertisement matter, which is used or intended to be used to attract attention or convey information when the same is placed so as to be visible from within any street or public way, including the sign face and supporting structure."
 
Banners (including feather banners) are not allowed as permanent signage under the following provision in the Town's Sign Ordinance because they are banners, and feather banners are additionally not allowed as permanent signage because they fluctuate and move:
 
"Prohibited Signs" (§11-3.11.A.3):
 
"No sign shall be neon, flash, blink, fluctuate, move or be otherwise animated or consist of banners, pennants, ribbons, streamers, or similar devices."
 
Nevertheless, banners (including feather banners) can be allowed on a temporary (30 day) basis without fee under the following provision in the Town's Sign Ordinance:
 
"Temporary Signs" (§11-3.12):
 
"Temporary Advertising Banners.  The Code Enforcement Officer may approve a banner upon application of a business, for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days, when said banner is for a new product, service, or part of a franchise promotion.  There shall be no permit fee." 
 
Since banners (including feather banners) can only be allowed on a 30 day basis as Temporary Advertising Banners, all properties and businesses  planning such signs must file a no fee permit application for same with the Code Office. 
 
The Code Office can be reached at 778-5874 or .

Town of Farmington Political Sign Information:

Click here for sign regulations.

Sign Ordinance (PDF)

Sign Application (PDF)

What You Can Do Regarding Floods -
 
Before a Flood Strikes:

• Find out if you live or work in a flood-prone area and review the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and Farmington’s Floodplain Management Ordinance at the Town Office.
• Visit the Historical Society to look at records and anecdotal information on past floods

If Your Property is Susceptible to Flooding:

• Obtain and maintain flood insurance
• Ensure that all construction is in accordance with the Town of Farmington Floodplain Management Ordinance
• Raise all utilities and equipment such as the water heater, oil tank, furnace, and electric wiring above the base flood elevation (BFE)
• Store inventory and supplies in areas above the BFE
• Know the best evacuation route and teach children how to reach higher ground.
• Find out where the closest emergency shelter is located
• Keep emergency supplies on hand, including flashlights and batteries, portable radio, first aid kit and medicines

During a Floodwatch:

• Listen to local radio and television stations for updates on storm and flood progress
• Maintain contact with family members, neighbors, and employees
• Move portable valuables to higher elevations if possible, move outdoor items which could float and increase flood damage to higher elevations
• Evacuate immediately if instructed
• Disconnect appropriate utilities to minimize fire damage
• Avoid walking and driving through flood waters, move to higher ground

Following a Flood:

• Be aware of potential fire hazards such as downed power lines, flooded electrical circuits and furnaces, and broken or leaking gas lines
• Look for structural damage to buildings such as cracked foundations and damaged walls, windows, doors, floors and ceilings
• Assess damage to your building and take pictures
• Consider whether it is advisable to floodproof your building to reduce future physical, emotional, and loss of business damage

Flood Smart