City of Philadelphia v. Steen Outdoor Advertising

OPINION BY

Judge LEAVITT.

Steen Outdoor Advertising (Steen) appeals several orders issued by the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County (trial court) in the course of a proceeding initiated by the City of Philadelphia with respect to a sign erected and maintained by Steen. The principal issue we consider is whether a double-faced, free-standing sign, with a face measuring 14 feet by 48 feet, that stands 50 feet off the ground, is an outdoor advertising sign or an accessory sign.

This case presents a complex procedural history. In June 1998, the City’s Department of Licenses and Inspections…