Belleville City Zoning Code
§ 23-17
SIGNS PURPOSE.
[Ord. No. 3134; amended 4-12-2022 by Ord. No. 3644]
It is the intent of this section to prescribe measurable criteria and a procedure for reviewing signs with the purpose of:
a.
Controlling the size, location, character and other pertinent features of all publicly visible signage.
b.
Bringing improved quality and order to the signs located throughout the Township to assure the continuation of a high level of attractiveness and historic character, thereby protecting residential and commercial property values.
c.
Providing each commercial property with equal visibility by promoting signs which:
1.
Encourage compatibility with surroundings and express the identity of individual properties and the character of the community while being compatible with the architectural style of the building and the neighborhood in materials, construction and color.
2.
Make signage orderly, readable and appropriate to the activity to which it pertains.
3.
Require signs that are not distracting to motorists so as to assure traffic and pedestrian safety.
4.
Promote signage that is properly located, well-constructed and well-maintained.
d.
Structuring a regulatory system which will facilitate efficient administration and enforcement.
e. AWNING SIGN BLADE SIGN CANOPY SIGN MONUMENT SIGN PYLON/POLE SIGN WALL SIGN WINDOW SIGN
Definitions.
As used in this section, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
The Awning Sign is located on a canvas awning that projects above the storefront. It consists of screen-printed or appliqued letters and graphics. Signs shall not be handpainted. These signs are designed to be pedestrian and auto-oriented.
The Blade Sign is mounted perpendicular to the facade from two metal brackets and shall not swing. Blade signs shall be pedestrian-oriented rather than to the automobile.
The Canopy Sign is located on a canopy that projects above the storefront. It consists of individually cut letters sitting on top of, on the face of, or below the canopy along the outside edge facing the street. These signs are designed to be pedestrian and auto-oriented.
A freestanding sign located on an articulated decorative base close to the ground and may contain individual tenant placards. A freestanding Monument Sign is typically located along a street frontage and at a driveway where there is a major traffic entrance for the project. These signs are typically more auto-oriented, but shall be designed to minimize impact on pedestrians.
A freestanding sign attached to a pole.
The Wall Sign is located above the storefront flat against the facade within the sign band.
The Window Sign is applied directly to the inside of a window or is hung within five feet inside the glass. It is professionally made and consists of individual letters and graphics. Window Signs shall not be permitted on any window that is not maintained in a transparent, ubobstructed condition.