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Altoona City Zoning Code

ARTICLE V

SIGNS

§ 800-67 Compliance required.

Signs may be erected and maintained only when in compliance with the provisions of this article and other ordinances and regulations relating to the erection, alteration, or maintenance of signs and similar devices.

§ 800-68 Purpose.

Signs may be erected and maintained only when in compliance with the provisions of this article and other ordinances and regulations relating to the erection, alteration, or maintenance of signs and similar devices.
A. 
The purposes of this article are the following:
(1) 
Aesthetic and community character.
(a) 
To promote a visually attractive community by regulating the size, location, and design of signs in a manner that enhances the appearance of the built environment and protects community character.
(2) 
Public safety and traffic.
(a) 
To protect public health, safety, and welfare by minimizing distractions to motorists, reducing hazards caused by obstructed views, and ensuring signs are safely constructed and maintained.
(3) 
Legal compliance and communication balance.
(a) 
To establish clear, content-neutral sign standards that balance the need for effective communication with the City's interest in reducing sign clutter, preserving property values, and complying with applicable state and federal laws.
B. 
This article applies to all signs located in the City of Altoona.

§ 800-69 Applicability.

All signs that are erected, installed, structurally altered, or otherwise modified after the effective date of this code shall comply with the standards of this article. Nonconforming signs are governed by the provisions of § 800-80. The regulations in this article apply solely to the design elements and architectural features of signs, and do not regulate the content or message displayed. Terms such as "letters," "symbols," and "copy" are used to reference physical components of signage and are not intended to restrict or influence the speech conveyed.

§ 800-70 Signs not requiring permit.

A. 
In general.
(1) 
No permit is required for the sign types listed in this section, provided they comply with all applicable provisions of this section.
(2) 
These signs shall not count toward the maximum number or total allowable area of signs permitted on a lot.
(3) 
Internal illumination is prohibited for these signs.
B. 
Signs not visible to the public.
(1) 
Any sign internal to a development and not visible from the right-of-way or a neighboring property.
C. 
Public interest signs.
(1) 
Signs of public interest that are erected by, or at the direction of, a public official in the performance of official duties, including but not limited to public notices, safety and danger signs, no trespassing signs, traffic and street signs, wayfinding signage, memorial plaques, and markers of historical significance.
(2) 
Signs on the scoreboard or outfield fence of an athletic field.
(3) 
Project identification signs are exempted from the requirements of this article for the duration of work for which permits have been issued if they comply with the following:
(a) 
The sign shall not exceed four feet by eight feet in size.
(b) 
The sign shall be secured so that it is not a hazard.
(c) 
There shall be no more than one such sign per project (any subsequent project signs must comply with all provisions of this article).
D. 
Flags.
(1) 
Flags are any fabric or other flexible material designed to be flown from a flagpole. Flags must meet the following standards:
(a) 
A maximum of three flags are permitted per lot;
(b) 
The flag area cannot exceed 1.5 times the height of the pole. For example, a 40-foot tall flagpole yields a maximum 60 square foot flag;
(c) 
The maximum height of a flagpole is 40 feet, measured from the highest point of the flagpole to average existing grade.
E. 
Public art.
(1) 
Works of public art that are not associated with a commercial enterprise and from which no direct commercial benefit is derived.
F. 
Holiday lights and decorations.
G. 
Home occupation signs.
(1) 
One non-illuminated sign is permitted per dwelling containing a home occupation, provided the sign face does not exceed two square feet in area and is mounted flat against the wall of the principal building.
H. 
Signs in the public right-of-way.
(1) 
Public signs erected by or on behalf of a governmental body to post legal notices;
(2) 
Signs identifying public property;
(3) 
Emergency warning signs, if they are erected by a governmental agency, a public utility company, or a contractor doing authorized or permitted work within the public right-of-way;
(4) 
Signs required by PennDOT of a regulatory, directional, or cautionary nature, which are in compliance with its standards;
(5) 
Signs required by an approval given under the Altoona Planning Code;
(6) 
Bus stop signs erected by a public transit company;
(7) 
Informational signs of a public utility regarding its poles, lines, pipes, or other facilities;
(8) 
Temporary signs, if they relate directly to traffic control or traffic safety;
(9) 
Sidewalk signs that are movable signs that stand on their own and aren't permanently attached to the ground. The following rules apply:
(a) 
Maximum size: six square feet, three feet tall, and two feet wide.
(b) 
Must be placed near a building with a customer entrance.
(c) 
Cannot be more than 12 feet from the building.
(d) 
One sign allowed per street-facing entrance, and only one sign per business per street.
(e) 
Must be taken inside at the end of each business day.
(f) 
No lighting or illumination is allowed.
(10) 
The sign cannot impair the ability of pedestrians or cyclist to use the sidewalk. Must leave at least six feet of sidewalk clear for pedestrians and cyclists at all times. Forfeiture of signs located in public rights-of-way. Any sign installed or placed on public property, except in conformance with the requirements of this article, shall be forfeited to the City and subject to immediate confiscation. The City shall have the right to recover from the owner or person placing such a sign the full costs of removal and disposal of the sign.

§ 800-71 Prohibited signs.

A. 
All signs that are not expressly permitted under this chapter or exempted from its regulations by § 800-70 are prohibited from the City of Altoona. Unless specifically permitted elsewhere in this article, the following signs are prohibited:
(1) 
Flashing, blinking, or signs that vary light intensity, including scrolling messages and video.
(2) 
Beacons or search lights.
(3) 
Pennants.
(4) 
Inflatable signs.
(5) 
Tethered balloons.
(6) 
Obscene signs that contain profanity, explicit symbols or images, or sexually suggestive signs.
(7) 
Roof signs.
(8) 
Snipe signs.
(9) 
Flat panel, box or cabinet signs.
(10) 
Pylon signs.
(11) 
Rotating or animates signs involving motion or sound.
(12) 
Signs intended to move or flutter in the wind to attract attention.
(13) 
Signs that imitate an official traffic sign or signal.
(14) 
Vehicle signs.
(15) 
Off-premises signs.
(16) 
Any other sign not expressly permitted in this article.

§ 800-72 Permit required.

Unless specifically exempted in § 800-70, a sign permit must be obtained from the Building Department prior to erection, installation, display, structural alteration, or change of any sign. Any sign in the public right-of-way requires an encroachment permit.

§ 800-73 Types of permanent signs.

The following permanent sign types are permitted within the City of Altoona, subject to the provisions of this code:
A. 
Building signs include the following sign types:
(1) 
Awning.
(2) 
Canopy.
(3) 
Crown or upper story parapet.
(4) 
Painted wall.
(5) 
Pedestrian.
(6) 
Projecting.
(7) 
Wall.
(8) 
Window.
B. 
Freestanding signs include the following sign types:
(1) 
Monument.
(2) 
Multi-tenant monument.
(3) 
Post-mounted suspended/hanging.
C. 
Other signs.
(1) 
Billboards or off-premises advertising signs.
(2) 
Electronic message boards.
(3) 
Preview-menu and menu boards.
(4) 
Large temporary signs.
(5) 
Historic or landmark signs.

§ 800-74 Signs allowed by district.

Key:
P
=
Sign type permitted
P*
=
Sign type allowed for multi-unit and nonresidential uses only
—
=
Sign type not permitted
Residential Districts
Mixed Use Districts
Commercial Districts
Campus District
Industrial Districts
Permanent Signs
RN-A
RN-B
RN-C
RN-D
MX-N
MX-D
C-C
UC-C
I-F
I-G
Supplemental Regulations
Building Signs
Awning
P*
P*
P*
P*
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76A
Canopy
P*
P*
P*
P*
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76B
Crown or Upper Story Parapet
—
—
—
—
P*
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76C
Painted Wall
P*
P*
P*
P*
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76D
Pedestrian Entry/Blade
—
—
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76E
Projecting
—
—
—
—
P*
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76F
Wall
P*
P*
P*
P*
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76G
Window
P*
P*
P*
P*
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-76H
Freestanding Signs
Double-post
—
—
—
—
—
—
P
—
—
—
§ 800-77A
Monument
—
—
—
—
P
—
P
P
P
P
§ 800-77B
Multi-Tenant Monument
—
—
—
—
—
—
P
—
P
P
§ 800-77C
Post-Mounted Suspended/ Hanging
P*
P*
P*
P*
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-77D
Other Signs
Off-Premises Outdoor Advertising (Billboard)
—
—
—
—
—
—
P
—
—
—
§ 800-78A
Electronic Message Boards & Menu Boards
—
—
—
—
—
—
P
—
—
§ 800-78B
Large Temporary
—
—
—
—
P
P
P
P
P
P
§ 800-78C

§ 800-75 Detailed regulation for permanent building sign types.

Signs may be erected and maintained only when in compliance with the provisions of this article and other ordinances and regulations relating to the erection, alteration, or maintenance of signs and similar devices.
A. 
Awning sign.
(1) 
Description: a sign consisting of graphics, symbols, or text that are painted, stitched, or otherwise permanently applied to the surface of an awning, forming an integral part of the awning material.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Signage shall only be located on the awning face or valance that runs parallel to the building facade.
(b) 
Illumination of awning signs is prohibited.
(c) 
Only awnings over ground-story doors or windows may contain signs.
(d) 
The shape of the awning must reflect the architectural style of the building to which it is attached.
(e) 
Temporary signs shall not be placed on awnings.
(f) 
Signs shall only be permitted on the valance.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 sign per awning.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
Awning Signs
Ⓐ
Maximum sign awning width (percentage)
60%
Ⓑ
Clear height above sidewalk
9 feet
Ⓒ
Clear height above parking area or driveway
14 feet
B. 
Canopy sign.
(1) 
Description: a sign affixed to a canopy with its display surface oriented parallel to the building facade.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Only canopies over ground-story doors or windows may contain signs.
(b) 
A canopy sign may be internally or externally illuminated except in the RN-A, RN-B, RN-C, and RN-D districts.
(c) 
The shape of the canopy must reflect the architectural style of the building to which it is attached.
(d) 
Temporary signs shall not be placed on canopies.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 sign per canopy.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
Canopy Signs
Ⓐ
Maximum sign awning width (percentage)
60%
Ⓑ
Clear height above sidewalk
9 feet
Ⓒ
Clear height above parking area or driveway
14 feet
C. 
Crown or upper story parapet.
(1) 
Description: a sign that is either painted on or mounted flat against the exterior wall of a building or structure, positioned at the upper portion of the building facade. The display surface shall not project more than two feet from the exterior wall.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Must be located on the uppermost story of a multi-story building.
(b) 
A crown or upper-story sign shall consist of channel letters or include lettering and design elements that project a minimum of two inches from the building facade. A cabinet sign, or panel sign, consisting of a solid unit is not permitted.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 2 per lot and only 1 sign per building facade.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
(a) 
2 stories: 10% of facade area (not to exceed 150 SF).
(b) 
3 to 4 stories: 200 SF.
(c) 
5+ stories: 300 SF.
D. 
Painted wall.
(1) 
Description: a sign painted on or applied to the exterior wall of a building or structure.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
If a painted wall sign is located within or as part of a mural, only the area(s) that include text count toward the sign area.
(b) 
Vinyl applique signs that are decal-like and applied flush on a wall shall be considered painted wall signs.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of one per lot and or 30 feet of tenant building frontage, whichever is greater.
(b) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
[1] 
Ground story: 50 SF.
[2] 
Upper story: 100 SF.
E. 
Pedestrian entry/blade.
(1) 
Description: a sign mounted approximately perpendicular to the exterior wall of a building or structure, typically projecting 12 inches or more outward from the wall surface.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Must be located within five feet of a ground story tenant entrance.
(b) 
Must be located at least 20 feet from any other pedestrian entry/blade sign or projecting sign.
(c) 
The top of the sign must be located below the lowest windowsills of the second story on a multi-story building or at least three feet below the roofline or parapet of a single-story building.
(d) 
Cannot be internally illuminated.
(e) 
Must include dimensional copy that projects a minimum of 0.5 inch from the sign surface, achieved through sandblasting, raised lettering, or similar methods.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 per building or tenant entrance, whichever is greater.
(b) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
[1] 
Maximum sign area: 10 SF.
[2] 
Minimum clear height above sidewalk: nine feet.
[3] 
Minimum clear height above a parking area or driveway: 14 feet.
F. 
Projecting sign.
(1) 
Description: a sign mounted approximately perpendicular to the exterior wall of a building or structure, typically projecting 12 inches or more outward from the wall surface that does not meet the standards for a pedestrian entry/blade sign.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
The top of the sign must be a minimum of five feet below the roof line or parapet.
(b) 
Must include dimensional copy that projects a minimum of 0.5 inch from the sign surface, achieved through sandblasting, raised lettering, or similar methods.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 per building.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
Projecting Signs
Ⓐ
Maximum sign area
45 sf
Ⓑ
Clear height above sidewalk
9 ft
Ⓒ
Clear height above parking area or driveway
14 ft
G. 
Wall sign.
(1) 
Description: a sign mounted flat and parallel to the exterior wall of a building or structure, projecting no more than 10 inches from the wall surface.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Permitted only on facades that contain a customer entrance or feature the appearance of display windows.
(b) 
Must be below the roof line or parapet.
(c) 
Must include dimensional copy that projects a minimum of 0.5 inches from the sign surface, achieved through sandblasting, raised lettering, or similar methods.
(d) 
A wall sign may be internally or externally illuminated except in the RN-A, RN-B, RN-C, and RN-D districts.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 per lot or 30 feet of tenant building frontage, whichever is greater.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
Wall Signs
Ⓐ
Tenant with less than 10,000 sf of gross floor area
50 sf
Ⓑ
Tenant with 10,000 sf or more of gross floor area
50 sf1
Notes:
1
Or 10% of the tenant's building wall area (not to exceed 150 sf), whichever is greater.
H. 
Window sign.
(1) 
Description: a sign that is painted on, affixed to, or projected onto the glass surface of a building facade, including doors, or placed within 24 inches of the interior side of a window in a manner intended to be visible from the exterior.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
May only be displayed in ground floor windows.
(b) 
Individual signs must fit within a single windowpane/panel. No combination of temporary and permanent window signs may cover more than 20% of any window panel.
(c) 
A window sign may be internally illuminated except in the RN-A, RN-B, RN-C, and RN-D districts.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 2 per lot or 1 per 30' of tenant building frontage, whichever is greater.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
Window Signs
Ⓐ
Maximum area per sign with opaque background
10 sf
Ⓑ
Maximum area per sign with no background
10 sf

§ 800-76 Detailed regulation for permanent freestanding sign types.

Signs may be erected and maintained only when in compliance with the provisions of this article and other ordinances and regulations relating to the erection, alteration, or maintenance of signs and similar devices.
A. 
Double-post sign.
(1) 
Description: a double-post freestanding sign is a sign mounted between or atop two vertical support poles securely anchored to the ground, and not attached to any building or structure.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Signs shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from any street right-of-way.
(b) 
Signs shall not obstruct visibility within the sight triangle, as defined by the City Engineer, between the heights of three and nine feet above the nearest street grade.
(c) 
Illumination is permitted through either:
[1] 
Internal lighting where only the letters and logo are illuminated against an opaque background; or
[2] 
External lighting using shielded ground-mounted fixtures or downward-directed lights integrated into the sign structure.
(d) 
All signs shall feature dimensional copy that projects a minimum of 0.5 inch from the sign face, created through methods such as sandblasting, raised lettering, or similar techniques.
(e) 
Landscaping shall be installed and maintained around the base of the sign to enhance appearance and integration with the site.
(f) 
A minimum separation of 250 feet shall be maintained between freestanding signs on the same property.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 per street front for a freestanding business or use.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
Double-Post Signs
Ⓐ
Maximum height
25 ft
Ⓑ
Maximum area
100 sf
B. 
Monument sign.
(1) 
Description: a freestanding sign with a solid base that is continuously attached to the ground along its entire length that is paced near a vehicular entrance into a development from a public right-of-way.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Signs shall be set back a minimum of three feet from any street right-of-way.
(b) 
Signs shall not obstruct visibility within the sight triangle, as defined by the City Engineer, between the heights of three and nine feet above the nearest street grade.
(c) 
Illumination is permitted through either:
[1] 
Internal lighting where only the letters and logo are illuminated against an opaque background; or
[2] 
External lighting using shielded ground-mounted fixtures or downward-directed lights integrated into the sign structure.
(d) 
All signs shall feature dimensional copy that projects a minimum of 0.5 inch from the sign face, created through methods such as sandblasting, raised lettering, or similar techniques.
(e) 
Landscaping shall be installed and maintained around the base of the sign to enhance appearance and integration with the site.
(f) 
An architectural cap shall be incorporated at the top of the sign as a design feature.
(g) 
A minimum separation of 250 feet shall be maintained between freestanding signs on the same property.
(h) 
May not be oriented toward or located along an interstate right-of-way.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 per street front for a freestanding business or use.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area for monument signs by district:
Dimensional Requirements
MX-N District
C-C, I-F, I-G Districts
Ⓐ
Maximum height
5 ft
10 ft
Ⓑ
Maximum area
25 ft
65 sf
C. 
Multi-tenant monument sign
(1) 
Description: a freestanding sign with a solid base that is continuously attached to the ground along its entire length that is paced near a vehicular entrance into a multi-use development from a public right-of-way.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Signs shall be set back a minimum of three feet from any street right-of-way.
(b) 
Signs shall not obstruct visibility within the sight triangle, as defined by the City Engineer, between the heights of three and nine feet above the nearest street grade.
(c) 
Illumination is permitted through either:
[1] 
Internal lighting where only the letters and logo are illuminated against an opaque background; or
[2] 
External lighting using shielded ground-mounted fixtures or downward-directed lights integrated into the sign structure.
(d) 
All signs shall feature dimensional copy that projects a minimum of 0.5 inch from the sign face, created through methods such as sandblasting, raised lettering, or similar techniques.
(e) 
Landscaping shall be installed and maintained around the base of the sign to enhance appearance and integration with the site.
(f) 
An architectural cap shall be incorporated at the top of the sign as a design feature.
(g) 
A minimum separation of 250 feet shall be maintained between freestanding signs on the same property.
(h) 
May not be oriented toward or located along an interstate right-of-way.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of two per street front for a multi-use development.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area by District:
Dimensional Requirement
MX-N District
C-C, I-F, I-G Districts
Ⓐ
Maximum height
5 ft + 1 ft for each sign, not to exceed 8 ft
10 ft + 1 ft for each sign, not to exceed 16 ft
Ⓑ
Maximum area
25 sf + 4 sf for each tenant, not to exceed 40 sf
65 sf + 4 sf for each tenant, not to exceed 100 sf
D. 
Post-mounted suspended/hanging sign.
(1) 
Description: a freestanding sign consisting of a vertical support post, a horizontal decorative arm or bracket, and a sign face suspended beneath the support.
(2) 
Applicable standards:
(a) 
Signs shall be set back a minimum of three feet from any street right-of-way.
(b) 
Signs shall not obstruct visibility within the sight triangle, as defined by the City Engineer, between the heights of three and nine feet above the nearest street grade.
(c) 
Illumination is permitted using shielded ground-mounted fixtures or downward-directed lights integrated into the sign structure.
(d) 
All signs shall feature dimensional copy that projects a minimum of 0.5 inch from the sign face, created through methods such as sandblasting, raised lettering, or similar techniques.
(e) 
Landscaping shall be installed and maintained around the base of the sign to enhance appearance and integration with the site.
(f) 
An architectural cap shall be incorporated at the top of the sign as a design feature.
(g) 
A minimum separation of 250 feet shall be maintained between freestanding signs on the same property.
(h) 
May not be oriented toward or located along an interstate right-of-way.
(3) 
Number of signs:
(a) 
Maximum of 1 per street front for a freestanding business or use.
(4) 
Individual sign dimensions and maximum sign area:
Post-Mounted Suspended/Hanging Signs
Ⓐ
Maximum height
8 ft
Ⓑ
Maximum area
15 sf

§ 800-77 Other signs.

A. 
Off-premises outdoor advertising signs (billboards).
(1) 
Description: An off-premises or outdoor advertising sign is a permanent free-standing off-premises sign, commonly referred to as a billboard, and that is generally used to rent or lease advertising space.
(2) 
Districts permitting off-premises outdoor advertising signs.
(a) 
Off-premises outdoor advertising signs are only permitted in the C-C district, subject to the conditions of this section.
(3) 
Maximum sign area.
(a) 
No single sign face shall exceed 250 square feet in area. No additional "extended" advertising area is permitted.
(4) 
Maximum height.
(a) 
Off-premises or outdoor advertising signs may not exceed 35 feet in height.
(5) 
Setbacks.
(a) 
All parts of an off-premises or outdoor advertising sign must be located no closer than 15 feet from a public right-of-way.
(6) 
Number of faces.
(a) 
Two faces are allowed per off-premises outdoor advertising sign structure. These faces must be parallel to each other or at an interior angle to one another not greater than 60°. There must be no double-decker or side-by-side off-premises outdoor advertising signs.
(7) 
Off-premises signs not to be counted as part of total number of allowed on-premises signs.
(a) 
Off-premises outdoor advertising signs do not count toward the total number of permanent signs allowed on the premises on which they are located.
(8) 
Maximum number.
(a) 
The maximum number of off-premises outdoor advertising signs permitted within the City must not exceed the maximum number of legally established conforming off-premises outdoor advertising signs existing on September 8, 2025, the date this code was adopted.
(9) 
Determination of maximum number:
(a) 
All conforming off-premises outdoor advertising signs existing on September 8, 2025, must be re-permitted for purposes of determining the maximum number of allowed signs. By October 31, 2025, the sign owners must submit to the City the following information for each existing and conforming off-premises outdoor advertising sign:
[1] 
Location (e.g., address and/or tax map number of parcel);
[2] 
Size of each sign face, excluding extended advertising space;
[3] 
Height of each sign;
[4] 
Name, address and telephone number of the owner of each sign, and the same information of any person having a security interest in each sign;
[5] 
If the parcel on which a sign is located is not owned by the owner of the sign, the remaining term of the lease;
[6] 
Digital or professionally processed color photographs of each sign face and sign structure that has such quality and clarity as to make identification reliable; and
[7] 
Date of erection of sign.
(b) 
Any existing off-premises outdoor advertising sign that is not re-permitted will be classified as a prohibited and illegal sign and must be completely removed within 60 days of notification to the sign owner.
(10) 
New signs as replacements.
(a) 
A sign permit is required for the construction and erection of all off-premises outdoor advertising signs.
(b) 
No permit to construct or erect an off-premises outdoor advertising sign will be issued until the City has verified that at least on existing off-premises outdoor advertising sign has been completely removed.
(c) 
The maximum area allowed for off-premises outdoor advertising sign faces of new signs as replacements must not exceed the sign face area of the sign being replaced or the maximum area allowed in Subsection A(3) above, whichever is less.
(11) 
Planning Commission approval requirement for sign replacements.
(a) 
The owner of an off-premises outdoor advertising sign may apply to the Planning Commission for a special permit to remove the sign and to replace it with another off-premises outdoor advertising sign at the same location.
(b) 
The Planning Commission may, at its discretion, approve the use of LED lighting or comparable digital luminance on sign faces, with careful consideration given to surrounding land uses and the compatibility of such lighting with adjacent properties.
[1] 
A digital off-premises outdoor advertising sign shall only be permitted subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission. Any application for this type of sign must include the removal of one existing billboard within the City of Altoona.
[2] 
If the Planning Commission approves a digital off-premises outdoor advertising sign in accordance with all requirements in § 800-77A, the maximum number of off-premises outdoor advertising signs permitted under § 800-77A(8) shall be reduced by one.
[3] 
All digital signs shall not exceed a maximum brightness of 5,000 nits during daylight hours and 300 nits between dusk and dawn, as measured from the sign face. All signs shall be equipped with automatic dimming technology that adjusts brightness in response to ambient light conditions.
(c) 
No approval will be granted for a proposed new location of the replacement sign unless the sign owner first makes an affirmative showing that the replacement sign will be "aesthetically compatible" with the area where it is to be located and that the sign will not adversely impact public safety as a consequence of its design, construction, or placement.
(d) 
For purposes of determining whether the proposed sign will be "aesthetically compatible," the Planning Commission must consider the following:
[1] 
Location context: whether the billboard is located near or is visible to residential developments or scenic corridors.
[2] 
Scale and proportion: the size and height of the billboard in relation to nearby buildings, streets, and natural features. Is it visually overwhelming?
[3] 
Design and materials: quality of materials used (e.g., metal, wood, digital face), and whether they are consistent with surrounding development patterns or design guidelines.
[4] 
Setback and spacing, adequate separation from other signs, buildings, and property lines to reduce visual clutter.
[5] 
Impact on viewsheds: whether the billboard obstructs or disrupts views of significant natural features, historic landmarks, or civic spaces.
[6] 
Lighting and illumination: intensity, direction, and method of illumination, including whether lighting is shielded or causes glare for nearby properties or drivers.
[7] 
Landscaping and screening: use of landscaping at the base of the sign to soften visual impact and integrate it with the surrounding environment.
[8] 
Color and contrast: whether the color and visual style of the billboard blends with or sharply contrasts against its backdrop.
[9] 
Compatibility with existing signage: how the billboard fits in with the design, spacing, and character of existing nearby signs.
[10] 
Consistency with adopted plans: alignment with the community's comprehensive plan, corridor studies, or design guidelines that reflect the desired character of the area.
B. 
Electronic message boards and pre-menu and menu boards.
(1) 
Electronic message boards and pre-menu and menu boards must incorporate a photocell, or similar technology, that adjusts brightness of the sign relative to outdoor ambient light, and may be included on monument and post signs, subject to the following conditions.
(a) 
Electronic message boards.
(b) 
When such signs are to be located, only within the C-C district, the area of the electronic sign face must not exceed 30% of the overall sign face, and the electronic message must maintain a static message for at least six seconds and must not employ any of the techniques or sign types prohibited by § 800-71.
(2) 
Pre-menu and menu boards.
(a) 
Each drive-through lane is entitled to one pre-menu board, which may be erected at the entrance of the stacking lane, and one menu board at the point of order. All pre-menu boards and menu boards count toward the maximum signage for a property and must comply with the following standards:
[1] 
Maximum sign area is 48 square feet.
[2] 
Maximum sign height is eight feet.
[3] 
Pre-menu and menu boards are be set back a minimum of 25 feet from the street right-of-way line, 50 feet from lot lines of abutting property improved with non-residential uses, and 75 feet from a residential property line.
[4] 
At any time when the drive-through use is closed to the public, the pre-menu and menu board are turned off and remain off until the drive-through use is open to the public.
[5] 
Speakers are directed away from adjacent residential dwellings and the maximum decibel level at the nearest residential property line should not exceed 55 dBA between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., and 50 dBA between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Noise is also subject to the provisions of Chapter 470, Noise.
[6] 
Pre-menu and menu boards must be skirted to the ground with permitted materials.
C. 
Large temporary signs.
(1) 
Large temporary signs must comply with all standards of the associated permanent sign type except the three-dimensional and lighting standards.
(2) 
Large temporary signs may be used for a period not exceeding 30 consecutive calendar days, up to three times per any 12-month period. Additional posting time may be allowed, provided a temporary activity on the site is continuing or an emergency circumstance warrants the additional signage duration for a public purpose.
(3) 
Large temporary signs are only permitted in the MX-N, MX-D, C-C, I-F, and I-G districts.
(4) 
A temporary sign with a total sign area of 12 square feet or less in an RN-A, RN-B, RN-C, or RN-D district or 32 square feet in any other district is considered a small temporary sign and does not require a sign permit. They may only be displayed for a period not to exceed 30 days in a calendar year.
(5) 
Large temporary signs must be a window or wall sign or a fence-mounted sign. No temporary awning, canopy, painted wall, pedestrian, or projecting sign is permitted.
(6) 
The signs must not exceed 50 square feet in the residential districts, 65 square feet in the mixed-use and commercial districts, and 75 square feet in the industrial districts.
(7) 
The maximum height allowed for large temporary signs is eight feet.
(8) 
Lighting or internal illumination is prohibited.
(9) 
Signs must be fabricated of durable weather-resistant materials.
(10) 
All sign materials and methods used to attach the sign to a building must be approved by the Planning and Zoning Administrator.

§ 800-78 Measurement standards.

A. 
Sign area.
(1) 
For window signs, wall signs, painted wall signs, canopy signs and awning signs consisting of freestanding letters or logos, sign area is calculated as the total area of the rectangle, circle or square that fully encloses the letters or images as shown below. Images, logos or text greater than 12 inches apart are calculated as separate signs for the purposes of calculating individual sign area.
(2) 
For signs mounted on a background, the total sign area shall include the entire surface of the background, including any material or color that distinguishes the sign face from the structure to which it is attached. The calculation includes the surface to which the message is applied, but excludes supporting elements, structural bracing, and any street address numbers.
(3) 
For double-faced signs, whether back-to-back or in a V-type configuration, only the area of the largest single sign face shall be counted toward the total sign area. However, if the angle between faces on a V-type sign exceeds 60 degrees, the area of all sign faces shall be included in the sign area calculation.
B. 
Sign height.
(1) 
The height of an freestanding sign is measured from the highest point of the sign or supporting structure to the top of the nearest sidewalk or crown of the road when no sidewalk exists.
C. 
Relief.
(1) 
Administrative relief is not available for sign standards. A variance from a sign standard may be requested in accordance with Article VI.

§ 800-79 Standards for signs.

A. 
Maintenance. All signs must meet the following provisions for maintenance. Signs that do not meet these provisions must be repaired or removed within 30 days after receipt of notification from the Planning and Zoning Administrator.
(1) 
The area around a sign must be properly maintained to make the sign readily visible.
(2) 
All non-functioning bulbs, damaged sign faces or panels, and torn fabric must be replaced or repaired.
(3) 
All sign copy must be maintained securely on the sign face or panel and all missing copy must be replaced.
(4) 
All sign structures, framework, and poles must be structurally sound.
(5) 
Prohibited cabinet signs may only provide maintenance to internal lighting.
(6) 
The general area in the vicinity of any signs shall be kept free and clear of sign material and debris.
(7) 
All signs shall be maintained in good structural condition in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local building and electrical codes.
(8) 
Maintaining nonconforming signs:
(a) 
If any nonconforming sign deteriorates to an unsightly or hazardous condition, the owner of that sign shall repair, repaint, remove, or replace it. If the City's Planning and Zoning Administrator finds that such a sign has not been repaired, repainted, removed, or replaced, he or she shall give notice and enforce this requirement.
(b) 
A nonconforming sign may be repaired or repainted without obtaining a permit.
B. 
Setbacks and encroachments.
(1) 
District building setback requirements do not apply to signs.
(2) 
Awning, canopy, pedestrian or projecting signs can encroach up to 36 inches over a public right-of-way, provided that:
(a) 
The sign cannot encroach within a vertical plane or street/pedestrian sign measured two feet from the back of the curb;
(b) 
The bottom edge of the sign must maintain a clearance of at least nine feet from the finish grade level below the sign; and
(c) 
An aerial easement for air rights encroachment must be obtained from the Public Works Department.
C. 
Compliance with building and electrical codes. All signs in their installation, maintenance, and removal must comply with the provisions of the building and electrical codes adopted by the City.
D. 
Maximum door and window coverage. The total area of all signs authorized by this section cannot block, cover, or otherwise obscure the visibility of more than 20% of the combined transparent door and window area per story of any building or tenant space.
E. 
A sign that conforms with the requirements of this article may be repaired or repainted without a permit. Voluntary replacement of a sign is the same as erecting a new sign.

§ 800-80 Nonconforming signs.

A. 
Applicability.
(1) 
The requirements of this section only apply to nonconforming signs. A nonconforming sign is defined as a sign that:
(a) 
Was legally established before the effective date of the particular ordinance or amendment relating thereto;
(b) 
Does not conform to the requirements of the provisions of this chapter.
(2) 
Because nonconforming signs are not illegal, they have a right to remain in place and to be maintained so long as they adhere to the requirements of this chapter.
B. 
Phasing out nonconforming signs. So long as it does not threaten the public health or welfare, a nonconforming sign may maintain its nonconforming characteristic or characteristics so long as it is in continuous use, is properly maintained, and adheres to the requirements of this section.
C. 
Nonconforming status. The following rules apply to or concern all nonconforming signs:
(1) 
The Planning and Zoning Administrator may keep and maintain a list of all nonconforming signs that exist in the City on the effective date of the particular ordinance or amendment relating thereto and on the effective dates of any relevant amendments to either this chapter or its map.
(2) 
The owner of a nonconforming sign may obtain a "certificate of nonconformity" from the City's Planning and Zoning Administrator. This certificate shall state that the sign may continue to be used for as long as it is in continuous use, is properly maintained and kept in conformity with the requirements of this section.
(3) 
Aggrieved parties and the involved landowner may both appeal the Zoning Officer's determination of whether or not a sign is nonconforming.
(4) 
Any sign that was illegally erected under a previous zoning ordinance or land use regulation shall remain illegal under this chapter.
(5) 
Any sign that becomes a nonconforming sign due to an amendment made after the effective date of this chapter shall be subject to the regulations of this chapter, as amended.
D. 
Replacing nonconforming signs. A nonconforming sign may be replaced with only a conforming sign. Changing a non-electronic screen sign into an electronic screen sign shall be defined as a "replacement" for the purposes of this chapter.
E. 
Enlarging, relocating, or altering nonconforming signs.
(1) 
A nonconforming sign shall not be enlarged or relocated within the City.
(2) 
A nonconforming sign shall not be altered in any aspect, except:
(a) 
To make safety improvements (for the safety of the general public passing by);
(b) 
To keep the sign maintained in accordance with the requirements of this chapter or other City ordinances; or
(c) 
To bring the sign into conformance with the requirements of this chapter.
F. 
Bringing a nonconforming sign into conformance. If a nonconforming sign is altered so that it becomes a conforming sign, it shall not be subsequently altered back to a nonconforming state. Likewise, if a nonconforming sign is replaced with a conforming sign, that conforming sign shall not be subsequently replaced with another nonconforming sign.

§ 800-81 Abandoned signs.

If a conforming use has been discontinued for a total of 12 months, then all signs that are related to that use, as well as any structures that support these signs, shall be known as "abandoned signs." Likewise, if a nonconforming use has been abandoned as described in this chapter, then all signs that are related to that use, as well as any structures that support these signs, shall be known as "abandoned signs." All abandoned signs shall be removed at the expense of the owner. If such a sign is not removed, the Zoning Officer shall give notice and enforce the requirements of this section.