(a) Self-service dispensers of newspapers and decorative plants and decorative objects may be placed on sidewalks in commercially zoned areas if a permit has first been obtained from the city administrator. In issuing, denying or revoking such permit, the administrator shall first determine whether the location and size of any such self-service dispenser or decorative plant or object will obstruct the free flow of pedestrian traffic, whether the placement of such objects has the consent of the adjoining property owner and ground floor occupant, and whether the placement and use of such objects will be aesthetically displeasing to the general public or will create a public or private nuisance.

(b) In commercially zoned areas, freestanding or temporary signs, including sandwich boards, which comply with the sign regulations of the city and NBCC Title 18, may be placed on sidewalks adjacent to the premises to which the signs relate; provided, that such signs shall not occupy more than 20 percent of the width of the sidewalk measured from the property line, the area of one face of the signs shall not exceed nine square feet and the signs shall remain on the sidewalk only during business hours of the adjacent premises.

(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing restrictions on the use of sidewalks, the city council may, by motion or resolution, as a part of a community event or celebration, authorize the use of portions of sidewalks in a commercially zoned area for a period not to exceed three days during which exhibits, sidewalk sales or other special events may take place on sidewalks of sufficient width to allow the passage of pedestrian traffic in addition to the operation or existence of the special event. As a part of such motion or resolution, the council may impose conditions for the public welfare, safety and convenience. (Ord. 1846 § 1, 1996; Ord. 1796, 1992; Ord. 1772 § 1, 1991; Ord. 1227 § 2, 1963)