Nonconforming Sign: A sign that was legally erected and maintained but does not comply with subsequently enacted sign restrictions. Under the Highway Beautification Act (HBA), removal or acquisition of legal nonconforming outdoor advertising structures requires the payment of just compensation (that is, cash). Amortization is not a permissible form of compensation under the HBA.Neon Sign or Tube: A sign utilizing a cold-cathode-gas discharge tube produced in straight or formed configuration; generally referred to as a neon-gas discharge tube, whether filled with neon or a mixture of two or more other inert gases (argon, helium, krypton, or xenon). Neon-tube lighting is a custom designed, optimally visible lighting system that may be shaped to form letters, parts of letters, skeleton tubing, outline lighting, and other decorative elements or art forms, in various colors and diameters. The cold-cathode tube can operate for many years, while the hot-cathode fluorescent lamp is limited to a relatively short life, as is the incandescent bulb.
