A. Any structure, building, wall, or other outdoor surface, or any device or part thereof, which displays or includes any letter, word, model, banner, flag, pennant, insignia, device, or other representations used for announcement, direction, advertisement or identification. The word "sign" includes the word "billboard," but does not include the flag, pennant, or insignia of any nation, state, city or other political unit, nor public traffic or directional signs. (See also "billboard.") The term "sign" is not intended to apply to the display of religious symbols on property being used for religious purposes.
B. The "area of a sign" shall be construed to include all lettering, wording, and accompanying designs and symbols, together with the background which is incidental to the display itself. Where the sign consists of individual letters or symbols attached to or painted on a surface, the area shall be considered the smallest rectangle which can be drawn to encompass all of the letters and symbols.
