Chadds Ford Township
City Zoning Code
City Zoning Code
ARTICLE XXIII
Signs
§ 135-168 General intent, purpose and applicability.
Chadds Ford Township is a community in the historic Brandywine Valley of southeastern Pennsylvania that includes the Brandywine Battlefield and the Brandywine National Historic Landmark, and encompasses the Chadds Ford and Dilworthtown Historic Overlay Districts. The purpose of this article is to preserve Chadds Ford Township's historic and natural resources in accordance with Article 1, Section 27 of the Pennsylvania Constitution; create a desirable environment in which to live, visit and conduct business; and, to provide protection to motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists from distractions that may result in property damages as well as bodily injury. It is the purpose of this article to promote the health, safety and general welfare of the public by providing a comprehensive system of reasonable, consistent and nondiscriminatory standards and requirements that are intended to:
A.
Assist in the identification of businesses, institutions, other establishments and residences.
B.
Reduce hazardous situations, confusion, driver distraction, and visual clutter that can be caused by Signs employing movement, light, fluctuating or moving lights, flashing images, excessive sizes and/or messaging that distracts motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists.
C.
Protect and enhance the vistas and historical character of the Brandywine Valley, Brandywine Battlefield and the Brandywine Battlefield National Historic Landmark, and preserve and enhance the natural and scenic characteristics of the historic, rural community.
D.
Enhance the attractiveness and economic well-being of the Township as a place to live, conduct business and visit, while supporting its rural character and the tourism fostered by its natural and historic landmarks.
E.
Protect the public from the dangers of unsafe Signs and other Structures.
F.
Permit Signs that are compatible with their surroundings, facilitate orientation, and preclude placement of Signs that conceal, obstruct or intrude upon adjacent land uses.
G.
Encourage Signs that are appropriate to the zoning district in which they are located and consistent with the category of use to which they pertain.
H.
Minimize the size and number of Signs and Sign messages to the minimum amount reasonably necessary to identify a business or institutional or residential property location and the nature of any such business, institution or residential property.
I.
Establish Sign size in relationship to the scale of the Lot and Building on which the Sign is to be placed and/or in relationship to traffic flow.
J.
Regulate Signs so they do not unreasonably interfere with, distract, obstruct, or endanger motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists.
K.
Require Signs to be constructed, installed and maintained in a safe and satisfactory manner, and prevent any attractive nuisances or abandoned Signs.
§ 135-169 General regulations for all zoning districts.
The following regulations shall be observed in all zoning districts within Chadds Ford Township:
A.
Prohibited signs. No Sign shall be erected in Chadds Ford Township unless it is specifically permitted by Article XXIII, Signs. All Signs not specifically permitted are prohibited. The following Signs shall not be permitted, erected or maintained in any district, except as otherwise provided herein.
(1)
Any Sign having content that is not subject to the protections of the First Amendment of the United States Constitution or Article I, Section 7 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, including, but not limited to the following:
(2)
Signs that incorporate in any manner any flashing or moving illumination or with illumination that varies in intensity or that varies in color and Signs that have any visible moving parts, visible revolving parts or visible mechanical movement of any description or other apparent visible movement achieved by electrical pulsations or by actions of normal wind currents. Hanging Signs that simply "swing in the wind" are permitted if they comply with all provisions of Article XXIII, Signs.
(3)
Any Sign that incorporates light sources unless the light source is shielded by opaque material so that the lamps are not visible on properties that are neighboring and/or adjacent to the property on which the Sign is located. Any exterior light source that is incorporated into the sign Structure shall be shielded by opaque material so that the light source is not visible. Lighting shall be effectively shielded to prevent light and/or glare from interfering with traffic of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists or causing a nuisance to neighboring and/or adjacent properties.
(4)
Any Sign or Sign Structure that constitutes a hazard to the health, safety or welfare of the public.
(5)
Signs that interfere with, mislead, or confuse the normal flow of traffic.
(6)
Signs painted on, attached to or supported by a tree, stone, cliff or other natural object.
(7)
String lights that convey a message either through words or by depicting a logo, that are unshielded from the surrounding properties.
(8)
Search lights, pennants, spinners, banners and streamers or any Sign containing moving parts.
(9)
Three-Dimensional signs.
(10)
Exterior and/or free-standing neon Signs or similar illuminated Signs.
(11)
Novelty Signs including balloons or any other inflated item and flashing, blinking, twinkling, oscillating or lighted moving Signs of any type and Signs that emit smoke or vapors.
(12)
Signs painted on, applied to or mounted on vehicles that are not operational and currently registered, licensed, inspected and permitted by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
(13)
Temporary Signs directly facing an adjoining residential property.
(14)
Any Sign that lies within 40 feet of a Side or Rear Lot Line in all residential zoning districts, unless within 10 feet of a Street or way.
(15)
Any Sign that is larger than two square feet in area in all residential zoning districts or five square feet in area in all commercial and industrial zoning districts, unless otherwise permitted herein.
B.
Sign area and height computation.
(1)
Sign area. The area of a Sign face, whether a Wall Sign or other Sign, shall be computed as the smallest rectangle that will encompass the lettering, emblem or other display, together with any material or color forming an integral part of the display or used to differentiate the Sign from the backdrop or Structure on which it is placed. Other than for Billboard Signs, the calculation of Sign Area excludes any supporting framework, bracing or decorative fence or wall that otherwise meets zoning ordinance regulations and is clearly incidental to the display itself. The Sign Area maximum standards in Article XXIII, Signs, refer to the total area of a Sign, which includes all faces of a Sign. For a Billboard Sign, the Projected Area of the supporting structure is included in the calculation of Sign Area.
(2)
Sign height. The height of a Sign shall be computed as the distance from the base of the Sign at normal grade to the top of the highest attached component of the Sign. Normal grade shall be construed to be the lower of:
(a)
Existing grade prior to Construction of the Sign; or
(b)
The newly established grade after Construction of the Sign, exclusive of any filling, berming, mounding or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the Sign. When the normal grade cannot be reasonably determined, Sign height shall be computed using whichever is lower: the elevation of the nearest point of the crown of a Street or the grade of the land at the principal entrance to the Structure on the Lot.
C.
Placement of signs. Except for official traffic and street Signs as approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation or Township, in no case shall any Sign be erected so that it:
(1)
Lies within any clear sight triangle as defined by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or Township ordinance, whichever is more restrictive.
(2)
Obscures or limits a motorist's, pedestrian's or bicyclist's view of traffic signals, stop Signs, intersections ahead, vehicular traffic, or other traffic warning devices along an established Street or way.
(3)
Lies within a Parking Space, parking aisle or fire lane; or blocks or interferes with the movement of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists traveling on a Street or way.
(4)
Blocks or interferes with the entrance, exit, fire escape or fire lane to a Building or other Structure.
(5)
Is affixed by any means to any Structure owned by the Township.
(6)
Is affixed by any means to utility poles, traffic lights, street sign posts, light fixtures, trees, posts or any other pre-existing Structure unless otherwise provided herein.
(7)
Faces an adjoining residential property, unless within 10 feet of the Street or way.
D.
Signs allowed without a permit. Signs listed in this subsection are permitted in all zoning districts and shall not require a zoning permit and shall not be counted when calculating the number of Signs on the Premises. However, such Signs shall conform to the general regulations for Signs enumerated in this subsection or elsewhere in Article XXIII, Signs.
(1)
A Sign with a face surface not exceeding two square feet in gross surface area for each exposed face with a total gross surface area of no more than four square feet setting forth the numerical identity of a residential, business or institutional property by number, post box number and/or names(s) of Occupants of the residential, business or institutional property.
(2)
A Sign for a professional and/or professional business in a residential zone shall not exceed two square feet in gross surface area for each exposed face with a gross surface area of no more than four square feet and shall be permitted on any residentially zoned Lot that has a professional use such as a doctor, dentist, osteopath, chiropractor, lawyer, accountant, architect, engineer or minister as an accessory Home Occupation.
(3)
A Sign setting forth regulations for on-premises traffic direction, parking or other functional requirements such as "lavatory facilities" or denoting other sections of a Building such as "service area," "office," etc. that does not exceed two square feet in gross surface area for each exposed face with a total gross surface area of no more than four square feet.
(4)
Legal notices, warnings, identification information or other information posted by governmental or legislative authorities. Such Signs may be illuminated in accordance with Article XXIII, Signs.
(5)
A permit is not required for one Temporary Sign posted on a residential property for less than 30 days as long as it is in compliance with all other provisions of this article. More than one Temporary Sign on a residential property requires a permit per § 135-172F. There shall be no more than two Temporary Signs place on a residential property within one calendar year. If the residential property is used as a business, then "nonresidential district" requirements and regulations for Temporary Signs shall apply.
(6)
Any Portable Sign on a Lot used for a business or institution shall be stored inside a Structure when said property is not open or operating and shall not exceed four square feet in gross surface area for each exposed face with a total gross surface area of no more than eight square feet.
(7)
Flags attached to free standing poles or poles attached to a Building: Flags shall not exceed a size of four feet by six feet and poles shall not project above the highest part of the Building located on the same Lot or maximum height allowed in the zoning district in which the Lot is located, whichever is lower.
(8)
Thirty days prior to a federal, state or local election and until no more than 15 days after such election, Temporary Signs with a total area of less than six square feet are permitted with permission of the property Owner.
E.
Safety and maintenance of signs. All Signs and parts thereof shall be kept in a good state of repair. Every Sign and all parts thereof, including, but not limited to, framework, supports, background, anchors and wiring systems, shall be constructed and maintained in compliance with all Codes, ordinances and/or Resolutions of Chadds Ford Township. The National Electrical Code shall be used as the standard for wiring all Sign systems. Any Sign on a Lot used as a residential, business or institutional property that has been vacated shall be removed within 30 days of the date the residential, business or institutional property becomes vacant or closes or the Occupant vacates the property, except for Real Estate Signs (e.g., "For Sale," "For Lease," etc.) covered elsewhere in Article XXIII, Signs. Any Sign on a Lot that has been vacated shall be removed within 30 days of the date the property has been vacated. If one entity vacates the property while the property remains in use by other Owners or lessors, any Sign(s) erected, constructed or posted by the vacated entity shall be removed within 30 days of the date the departing entity vacates the property.
F.
Signage in Historic Overlay Districts. All signage shall comply with the "Architectural Guidelines for Construction in The Historic Overlay Districts," dated April 28, 1987, or as may be amended.
§ 135-170 Regulations for number of signs in residential districts.
A.
The number of On-Premises Signs allowed on a property within a specific Zoning District in the chart below are pursuant to all regulations for specific types of Signs in § 135-172, Regulations for specific types of signs.
B.
Any and all Sign types without any designation in any and all columns of § 135-170 are not permitted.
C.
Residential.
Zoning District | Parallel | Parallel | Freestanding | Temporary | Numerical Identification | Freestanding | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Awning, Canopy or Projecting | Wall or Marquee | Ground or Pole | Billboard | ||||
(1) | R-1 or R-2 | — | — | 1 per neighborhood (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot Less than 30 days | 1 per Lot | — |
(2) | R-1 or R-2 Approved nonresidential use | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per business (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign) | 1 per business (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per business | — |
(3) | R-MA | — | — | 1 per Lot | 1 per Lot Less than 30 days | 1 per Lot | — |
(4) | PRD | — | — | 1 per Tract | 1 per Tract Less than 30 days | 1 per Tract | — |
(5) | Reserved | — | |||||
§ 135-171 Regulations for number of signs in nonresidential districts.
A.
The number of On-Premises Signs allowed on a property within a specific Zoning District in the chart below are pursuant to all regulations for specific types of Signs in § 135-172, Regulations for specific types of signs.
B.
Any and all Sign types without any designation in any and all columns of § 135-171 are not permitted.
C.
Billboard Signs permitted in B-1 and PBC-1 by Special Exception per § 135-172G(1).
D.
Nonresidential.
Zoning District | Parallel | Parallel | Freestanding | Temporary | Numerical Identification | Freestanding | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Awning, Canopy or Projecting | Wall or Marquee | Ground or Pole | Billboard | |||||
(1) | B-Business or B-1 Business-1 | |||||||
(a) | 1 business | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign) | 2 per Lot (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per Lot | — | |
(b) | 2 or more Businesses | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign per business) | 1 per business (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per business | 1 per Lot in B-1 only (count includes any Freestanding Sign) | |
(2) | LI - Light Industrial or LI-1 Light Industrial-1 | |||||||
(a) | 1 business | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign) | 2 per Lot (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per Lot | — | |
(b) | 2 or more Businesses | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign for each business) | 1 per business (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per business | — | |
(3) | PBC - Planned Business Center or PBC-1 - Planned Business Center-1 | |||||||
(a) | 1 business | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign) | 2 per Lot (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per Lot | — | |
(b) | 2 or more businesses | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per business (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign for each business) | 1 per business (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per business | 1 per Lot in PBC-1 only (count includes any Freestanding Sign) | |
(4) | POC - Planned Office Center | |||||||
(a) | 1 business | 1 per Lot if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign) | 2 per Lot (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per Lot | — | |
(b) | 2 or more businesses | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign for each business) | 1 per business (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per business | — | |
(5) | CC | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign for each principal use) | 2 per Lot (count includes Portable Sign) | 1 per principal use | — | |
(6) | MC | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (if no other Parallel Sign) | 1 per Lot (in addition to 1 Parallel Sign for each business) | 2 per Lot (count includes Portable Sign) | — | — | |
§ 135-172 Regulations for specific types of signs.
A.
Awning, canopy or projecting sign. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to Canopy, Awning or Projecting Signs:
(2)
Area, height, lighting, location and size of a canopy, awning or projecting sign.
(a)
The area of the Sign on the Awning, Canopy or Projecting surface shall not exceed 20 square feet when located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less. When the Sign is located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit in excess of 35 mph, the maximum square footage shall be 32 square feet except when located in the Historic Overlay Districts; then it shall not exceed 20 square feet.
(b)
No Awning, Canopy or Projecting Sign shall project more than five feet beyond the Building or Structure line in the direction of the Street.
(c)
No portion of any Awning, Canopy or Projecting Sign shall be less than 10 feet above grade level.
(d)
Any exterior light source that is incorporated into an Awning, Canopy or Projecting Sign shall be shielded by opaque material so that the light source is not visible. Lighting shall be effectively shielded to prevent light and/or glare from interfering with traffic of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists or causing a nuisance to neighboring or adjacent properties.
(3)
Miscellaneous regulations for an awning, canopy or projecting sign.
(a)
As a condition of the issuance of a permit for an Awning, Canopy or Projecting Sign, the Township may impose such requirements as to the material, manner of Construction and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
(b)
No Media Display Signs (MDS), Electronic Display Screens (EDS), or Electronic Message Centers (EMC) shall be permitted in association with an Awning, Canopy or Projecting Sign.
B.
Wall sign. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to Wall Signs:
(1)
Number of wall signs.
(a)
A business or institution may erect and maintain a Wall Sign in the front of the business or institutional property per § 135-171, Regulations for number of signs in nonresidential zoning districts.
(b)
A business or institution that faces or fronts an internal parking lot shall consider the internal parking Lot as the front.
(c)
A business or institution that faces or fronts an internal parking lot and a Street or way, and may be considered a Corner Lot, shall be permitted to have one Wall Sign facing each front; however, no more than two Wall Signs shall be permitted as specified in § 135-171, Regulations for number of signs in nonresidential zoning districts.
(2)
Area, lighting, and location of wall signs.
(a)
The area of a Wall Sign shall not exceed 20 square feet when located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less. When the Sign is located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit in excess of 35 mph, the maximum square footage shall be 32 square feet except when located in the Historic Overlay Districts; then it shall not exceed 20 square feet.
(b)
No Wall Sign shall extend above the top of the wall upon which it is placed or extend beyond the left or right extremity of the wall to which it is attached.
(c)
Any exterior light source that is incorporated into a Wall Sign shall be shielded by opaque material so that the light source is not visible. Lighting shall be effectively shielded to prevent light and/or glare from interfering with traffic of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists or causing a nuisance to neighboring and/or adjacent properties. External lighting may be provided with reflectors, a minimum of 10 feet above grade and equipped with wire mesh guards. No part shall extend more than two feet from the wall of the Building.
(3)
Miscellaneous.
(a)
As a condition of the issuance of a permit for a Wall Sign, the Township may impose such requirements as to the material, manner of Construction and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
(b)
No Media Display Signs (MDS), Electronic Display Screens (EDS), or Electronic Message Centers (EMC) shall be permitted in association with a Wall Sign.
C.
Marquee sign. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to Marquee Signs:
(1)
Number of marquee signs.
(a)
A business or institution may erect and maintain a Marquee Sign in the front of the business or institution per § 135-171, Regulations for number of signs in nonresidential zoning districts.
(b)
A business or institution that faces or fronts an internal parking Lot shall consider the internal parking lot as the front.
(c)
A business or institution that faces or fronts an internal parking lot and a Street or way, and may be considered a Corner Lot, shall be permitted to have one Marquee Sign facing each front; however, no more than two Marquee Signs will be permitted as per § 135-171, Regulations for number of signs in nonresidential zoning districts.
(2)
Area, lighting and location of marquee signs.
(a)
The area of a Marquee Sign shall not exceed 20 square feet when located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less. When the Sign is located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit in excess of 35 mph, the maximum square footage shall be 32 square feet except when located in the Historic Overlay Districts; then it shall not exceed 20 square feet.
(b)
No Marquee Sign shall extend above the top of the wall upon which it is placed; extend beyond the left or right extremity of the wall to which it is attached; or project more than 12 inches from the wall upon which it is mounted.
(c)
Any exterior light source that is incorporated into a Marquee Sign shall be shielded by opaque material so that the light source is not visible. Lighting shall be effectively shielded to prevent light and/or glare from interfering with traffic of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists or causing a nuisance to neighboring and/or adjacent properties. External lighting may be provided with reflectors, a minimum of 10 feet above grade and equipped with wire mesh guards. No part shall extend more than two feet from the wall of the Building.
(3)
Miscellaneous.
(a)
As a condition of the issuance of a permit for a Marquee Sign, the Township may impose such requirements as to the material, manner of Construction and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
(b)
Media Display Signs (MDS), Electronic Display Screens (EDS), Electronic Message Centers (EMC), Attraction Boards, Readerboards and/or Channel Letter Signs may be permitted in association with a Marquee Sign. Such Signs are subject to the following additional requirements:
[1]
The Electronic Display Screen (EDS) portion of a Sign shall not be greater than 75% of the Sign face area.
[2]
Message timing of an EDS Sign shall not be more than one message per minute so as not to distract traffic.
[3]
Electronic Message Center (EMC) Signs shall not exceed 32 square feet and shall conform to size limitations specified in § 135-172.
[4]
Message timing of an EMC Sign shall not be more than one message per minute so as not to distract traffic.
(4)
Within the Historic Overlay Districts.
(a)
No Marquee Sign shall be located within the Historic Overlay Districts without the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness after recommendation from the Township's HARB and approval by the Township's Board of Supervisors.
(b)
No Media Display Signs (MDS), Electronic Display Screens (EDS), Electronic Message Centers (EMC), Attraction Boards, Readerboards and/or Channel Letter Signs shall be permitted in the Historic Overlay Districts or within 500 feet of the Historic Overlay Districts.
D.
Ground sign. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to Ground Signs:
(1)
(2)
Area, height, lighting, location and size of ground signs.
(a)
The area of a Ground Sign shall not exceed 20 square feet when located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less. When the Sign is located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit in excess of 35 mph, the maximum square footage shall be 32 square feet, except when located in the Historic Overlay Districts; then it shall not exceed 20 square feet.
(b)
A Ground Sign and all parts including braces and supports shall be located entirely within the Property Lines and shall not project over neighboring or adjoining properties.
(c)
A Ground Sign shall be permitted between the Property Line and Building Setback lines, except where otherwise prohibited by Article XXIII, Signs.
(d)
No portion of any Ground Sign shall be greater than eight feet above grade level per § 135-169B, Sign area and height computation.
(e)
A Ground Sign shall be located a minimum of five feet from the legal Right-of-Way of any Street or way.
(f)
A Ground Sign shall not be located within any clear sight area for any Street or way.
(g)
Any exterior light source that is incorporated into a Ground Sign shall be shielded by opaque material so that the light source is not visible. Lighting shall be effectively shielded to prevent light and/or glare from interfering with traffic of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists or causing a nuisance to neighboring and/or adjacent properties. External lighting may be provided with reflectors, a minimum of 10 feet above grade and equipped with wire mesh guards. No part may extend more than two feet from the base area of the Ground Sign.
(3)
Miscellaneous.
(a)
As a condition of the issuance of a permit for a Ground Sign, the Township may impose such requirements as to the material, manner of Construction and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
(b)
Ground Signs shall only advertise goods and services provided by the property Owner and/or Tenant(s) of the property on which the Sign is located.
(c)
Media Display Signs (MDS), Electronic Display Screens (EDS), Electronic Message Centers (EMC), Attraction Boards, Readerboards and/or Channel Letter Signs shall be permitted in association with a Ground Sign except in the Historic Overlay Districts or within 500 feet of the Historic Overlay Districts.
(d)
Ground Signs incorporating a Media Display Sign (MDS), Electronic Display Screen (EDS), Electronic Message Center (EMC) Attraction Board, Readerboard and/or Channel Letter Sign shall be permitted subject to the following additional requirements:
[1]
The Electronic Display Screen (EDS) portion of the Sign shall not be greater than 75% of the Sign face.
[2]
Message timing of an EDS Sign shall not be more than one message per minute so as not to distract traffic.
[3]
Electronic Message Center (EMC) Signs shall not exceed 32 square feet and shall conform to size limitations specified in § 135-172E(3)(c).
[4]
Message timing of an EMC shall not be more than one message per minute so as not to distract traffic.
[5]
The Attraction Board, Readerboard and/or Channel Letter portion of the Sign shall not be greater than 50% of the Sign face.
(4)
Within the Historic Overlay District.
(a)
No Ground Sign shall be located within the Historic Overlay District without the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness upon recommendation from the Township's HARB and Approved by the Township's Board of Supervisors.
(b)
No portion of any base area or ground structural area of a Ground Sign shall be more than six feet above grade level per § 135-169B, Sign area and height computation.
(c)
No Media Display Sign (MDS), Electronic Display Screen (EDS), Electronic Message Center (EMC), Attraction Board, Readerboard or Channel Letter Sign shall be permitted in the Historic Overlay District or within 500 feet of the Historic Overlay District.
E.
Pole sign. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to Pole Signs:
(1)
(2)
Area, height, lighting, location and size of pole signs.
(a)
The area of a Pole Sign shall not exceed 20 square feet when located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less. When the Sign is located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit in excess of 35 mph, the maximum square footage shall be 32 square feet except when located in the Historic Overlay District; then it shall not exceed 20 square feet.
(b)
A Pole Sign and all its parts including braces and supports shall be located entirely within the Property Lines and shall not project over neighboring or adjoining properties.
(c)
A Pole Sign may be permitted between the Property Line and Building Setback lines, except where otherwise prohibited by Article XXIII, Signs.
(d)
A Pole Sign shall be located a minimum of five feet from the legal Right-of-Way of any Street or way.
(e)
No portion of any Pole Sign shall be greater than 15 feet above grade level per § 135-169B, Sign area and height computation.
(f)
Any exterior light source that is incorporated into a Pole Sign shall be shielded by opaque material so that the light source is not visible. Lighting shall be effectively shielded to prevent light and/or glare from interfering with traffic of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists or causing a nuisance to neighboring and/or adjacent properties. External lighting may be provided with reflectors, a minimum of 10 feet above grade and equipped with wire mesh guards. No part shall extend more than two feet from the Pole Sign.
(3)
Miscellaneous.
(a)
As a condition of the issuance of a permit for a Pole Sign, the Township may impose such requirements as to the material, manner of Construction and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
(b)
Pole Signs shall only advertise goods and services provided by the property Owner and/or Tenant(s) of the property on which the Sign is located.
(c)
A Media Display Sign (MDS), Electronic Display Screen (EDS), Electronic Message Center (EMC), Attraction Board, Readerboard and Channel Letter Sign shall be permitted in association with a Pole Sign, except in the Historic Overlay District or within 500 feet of the Historic Overlay District. Such Signs are subject to the following additional requirements:
[1]
The Electronic Display Screen (EDS) portion of a Sign shall not be greater than 75% of the Sign face area.
[2]
Message timing of an EDS Sign shall not be more than one message per minute so as not to distract traffic.
[3]
Electronic Message Center (EMC) Signs shall not exceed 32 square feet and shall conform to size limitations specified in § 135-172.
[4]
Message timing of an EMC Sign shall not be more than one message per minute so as not to distract traffic.
(4)
The Attraction Board, Readerboard and/or Channel Letter portion of a Sign shall not be greater than 50% of the Sign face area, and shall be no greater than 32 square feet in area, and shall conform with § 135-172.
(5)
Within the historic overlay district.
(a)
No Pole Sign shall be located within the Historic Overlay District without the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness after recommendation by the Township's HARB and approval by the Township's Board of Supervisors.
(b)
No portion of any Pole Sign shall be greater than 15 feet above grade level per § 135-169B, Sign area and height computation.
(c)
No Media Display Sign (MDS), Electronic Display Screen (EDS), Electronic Message Center (EMC), Attraction Board, Readerboard and/or Channel Letter Sign shall be permitted in the Historic Overlay District or within 500 feet of the Historic Overlay Districts.
F.
Temporary sign. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to Temporary Signs:
(1)
Number of temporary signs.
(2)
Area, height, location and size of temporary signs.
(a)
Residential districts.
[1]
Temporary Signs shall not exceed four square feet in gross surface area for each exposed face with a total gross surface area of no more than eight square feet.
[2]
Temporary Signs shall be located in the Front Yard within 10 feet of a Street or way.
[3]
Temporary Signs shall not project higher than four feet.
(c)
Miscellaneous.
[1]
As a condition of the issuance of a permit for a Temporary Sign, the Township may impose such requirements as to the material, manner of Construction and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
(d)
Within the Historic Overlay District.
[1]
No Temporary Sign shall be located within the Historic Overlay Districts without the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness after recommendation by the Township's HARB and approval by the Township's Board of Supervisors.
[2]
Temporary Signs shall not exceed four square feet in gross surface area for each exposed face with a total gross surface area of no more than eight square feet.
[3]
Temporary Signs shall be located in the Front Yard within 10 feet of a Street or way.
[4]
Temporary Signs shall not project higher than four feet.
G.
Billboard sign. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, and § 135-171, Regulations for number of signs in nonresidential zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to a Billboard Sign:
(1)
A Billboard Sign shall not be permitted except within the B-1 and PBC-1 zoning districts as a Special Exception granted by the Township's Zoning Hearing Board. Any Special Exception granted shall meet the following criteria:
(a)
One Billboard Sign may be constructed, erected or maintained on any Lot and shall be the sole principal use for that Lot.
(b)
A Billboard Sign shall be oriented toward a Street or way upon which the Billboard Sign fronts or faces to minimize the impact upon neighboring or adjoining properties.
(c)
No Billboard Sign shall obstruct the view of motorists on adjoining Streets or ways or the view of neighboring or adjoining properties.
(d)
A Billboard Sign shall be stationary, and when using digital technology shall produce static images that may be changeable via a computer but shall not scroll, flash, twinkle, feature moving pictures, moving images or have mechanical or animated movement.
(e)
Any exterior light source that is incorporated into a Billboard Sign shall be shielded by opaque material so that the light source is not visible. Lighting shall be effectively shielded to prevent light and/or glare from interfering with traffic of motorists, pedestrians or bicyclists or causing a nuisance to neighboring or adjacent properties. External lighting shall be provided with reflectors. An illuminated and/or digital Billboard Sign shall be turned off between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
(f)
Only one advertisement display or message may appear on a Billboard Sign at any one time.
(g)
Changes from one advertisement or display or from one message to another (cycle) shall be an instantaneous transition and may occur no more frequently than every 10 minutes.
(h)
An application for a Billboard Sign shall adhere to § 135-175, Zoning permits for signs, and include a fully engineered site Plan and meet all applicable requirements set forth in the Chadds Ford Township Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 135, as amended. A Billboard Sign shall be no greater than 300 square feet and shall be accompanied by certification, under seal and signature by a professional engineer registered in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. A Billboard Sign shall meet all Construction standards as set forth in the Township's building codes and shall not present a hazard to safety, health or welfare.
(i)
Bond or other security acceptable to the Township, in the form and amount satisfactory to the Township, shall be posted with the Township to ensure that the Billboard will be properly removed after the termination of use for a period of one year.
(2)
A Billboard Sign shall be constructed in accordance with all applicable Township and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania codes. In addition:
(a)
A minimum Setback equal to 150% of the height of the Billboard Sign shall be provided on all four sides (Front, Rear and Side Yards). The Setback Area shall be free from all other Buildings, Structures and improvements except those demonstrated to be necessary for the operation, maintenance or security of the Billboard Sign.
(b)
The maximum height of the highest point of the Billboard Sign, including its support Structure, shall not exceed 35 feet as measured from the base of the Sign or grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher in grade.
(c)
A Billboard Sign shall have no more than one Sign face, which shall not exceed 300 square feet. The back of every Billboard Sign shall be finished and painted a uniform color, and the type and nature of the finishing shall be Approved by the Zoning Hearing Board.
(d)
No Billboard Sign shall be erected within 1,000 feet of any other Billboard Sign as measured between the closest points of each Sign, including the support Structures. This placement requirement applies whether the existing Sign is located in Chadds Ford Township or in an adjacent Township or municipality.
(e)
No Billboard Sign shall be located within 500 feet of any Street intersection as measured horizontally in all directions from the nearest edge of the Billboard Sign face.
(f)
No Billboard Sign shall be located within 1,000 feet of any residential or Historic Overlay Districts as measured horizontally in all directions from the nearest edge of the Billboard Sign face.
(g)
No Billboard Sign shall be constructed or erected within the clear sight triangle of any Street or way or commercial driveway and shall not in any manner obstruct or impede traffic safety including ingress and egress.
(h)
A Billboard Sign face shall be independently supported and have vertical supports of metal that are galvanize or otherwise treated to prevent rust and other corrosion.
(i)
One vertical support shall be capable of enabling the entire Billboard Sign to be able to withstand the effects of wind gusts of at least 100 miles per hour or wind loading as specified by the applicable building code, whichever is more restrictive.
(j)
The entire base of the Billboard Sign Structure shall be permanently landscaped with evergreen bushes placed in such a manner as to screen the foundation of the Structure. A Landscape Plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the Township Zoning Officer prior to the issuance of the required permits. The Owner shall maintain said landscaping in accordance with accepted conservation practices and shall replace any dead or diseased plants promptly. Landscaping shall form a base and backdrop to the Billboard Sign whenever practical and/or necessary.
(k)
No bare cuts are permitted on a hillside, and all cuts or fills are to be permanently seeded, planted and maintained.
(l)
Billboard Signs shall not exceed 300 square feet.
(3)
Maintenance of a billboard sign.
(a)
All properties upon which a Billboard Sign is erected shall be regularly maintained to avoid such nuisances as weeds, litter or disrepair.
(b)
The Billboard Sign Structure shall be entirely repainted at least every five years or as directed by the Township Zoning Officer if the Structure appears to require such maintenance within five years.
(c)
Every five years, or as directed by the Township Zoning Officer if the Structure appears to require such maintenance in less than five years, the Owner of a Billboard Sign shall have a structural inspection by a qualified structural engineer, registered with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and shall provide to the Township's Zoning Officer a certificate from the engineer certifying that the Billboard Sign Structure is structurally sound.
(d)
Annual inspections of a Billboard Sign shall be conducted by the Township's Zoning Officer to determine compliance, and a Billboard Sign found to be in violation shall be brought into compliance within 30 days of receipt of written notice or order.
(e)
Any abandoned Billboard Sign shall be removed within 30 days of receipt of written notice or order. If the Owner of the Billboard Sign fails to remove an abandoned Billboard Sign within 30 days of receipt of written notice or order, then the Township Zoning Officer shall direct the removal of the Billboard Sign by a contractor, and the costs associated with the removal of the Sign shall be borne by the Owner of the Billboard Sign and shall result in a lien upon the property on which the Billboard Sign is located.
H.
Real estate development sign for a subdivision. In addition to § 135-169, General regulations for all zoning districts, the following regulations shall apply to real estate development Signs for a Subdivision:
(1)
Number of real estate development Signs.
(a)
On any given Street or way, there shall be only one Real Estate Sign per Subdivision. If the Subdivision has an ingress or egress to more than one Street or way, the Subdivision may have one Sign for each entrance to the Street or way.
(b)
Real Estate Signs shall be limited to those Subdivisions where at least two Lots are for sale.
(2)
Area, height, location and size of real estate signs.
(a)
The area of a Real Estate Sign shall not exceed 20 square feet when located on a property that has Frontage on a Public Street or way that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less. When the Sign is located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit in excess of 35 mph, the maximum square footage shall be 32 square feet except when located in the Historic Overlay District; then it shall not exceed 20 square feet.
(b)
Real estate development Signs shall be located on or in the Subdivision and can be constructed or erected only after a recorded copy of the Final Plan has been provided to the Township.
(c)
Real estate development Signs shall conform to relevant Setback line requirements for the zoning district in which they are located.
(d)
The maximum height of a real estate development Sign shall be no greater than 15 feet.
(3)
Miscellaneous.
(a)
As a condition of the issuance of a permit for a real estate development Sign, the Township may impose such requirements as to the material, manner of Construction and method of erection as are reasonably necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
(b)
Media Display Signs (MDS), Electronic Display Screens (EDS), Electronic Message Centers (EMC), or other similar technology and Attraction Boards, Readerboards add/or Channel Letter Signs shall not be permitted in association with a real estate development Sign.
(c)
Artificial illumination of a real estate development Sign is prohibited.
§ 135-173 Nonconforming signs.
A.
A Nonconforming Sign shall be removed or repaired within 30 days of the date of written notice of violation whenever:
B.
In the event a Nonconforming Sign is removed for repairs or repainting, the Owner of the Sign shall notify the Township in writing prior to removal for repair. The repaired Sign shall be identical in area, size, height, location and design.
C.
A Building or institution that has a nonconforming Front Yard may affix a Sign to the front of the Building even if the front of the Building is closer than 10 feet to the Street or way. The Sign affixed to the front of the Building shall be a Wall Sign only. When located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit of 35 mph or less, the maximum square footage shall be 20 square feet. When the Sign is located on a property that has Frontage on a Street or way that has a speed limit in excess of 35 mph, the maximum square footage shall be 32 square feet except when located in the Historic Overlay Districts; then it shall not exceed 20 square feet.
D.
All nonconforming Temporary Signs shall be permanently removed within 30 days of the effective date of this article unless specific approval is granted as provided herein.
§ 135-174 Appointment and duties of the Township Zoning Officer.
A.
The Township Zoning Officer and/or any other officer designated to assist the Township Zoning Officer shall be given the powers to enforce the provisions of Article XXIII, Signs. The term "Township Zoning Officer" shall include any officer designated by the Board of Supervisors of Chadds Ford Township to assist the Township Zoning Officer in the enforcement and administration of these regulations.
B.
Duties of the township zoning officer.
(1)
The Township Zoning Officer shall examine all applications for permits to erect Signs and shall issue permits for all Signs that conform to the requirements of Article XXIII, Signs.
(2)
If the Township Zoning Officer finds that any Sign has been constructed, erected, moved, painted or structurally altered in violation of the provisions of Article XXIII, "Signs," the Township Zoning Officer shall promptly notify the Owner or lessor of the Sign in writing. If the Owner or lessor fails to remove or alter the Sign to comply with the provisions of Article XXIII, "Signs," within 30 days of receipt of written notification, the Township Zoning Officer may file a violation notice with the District Court.
(3)
If the Township Zoning Officer finds any Sign that creates an immediate hazard to the health, safety or welfare of the public, he/she shall be empowered to order the Sign removed immediately by verbal and/or written notification. If the Owner or lessor of the Sign fails to remove the Sign immediately, the Township Zoning Officer shall direct the removal of the Sign by a contractor, and the costs associated with the removal of the Sign shall be borne by the Owner or lessor of the Sign and may constitute a lien upon the property.
§ 135-175 Zoning permits for signs.
General provisions for all signs.
A.
No Sign shall hereafter be constructed, erected, moved, painted or structurally altered until a zoning permit application has been made and Approved by the Township Zoning Officer. Said permit or permits shall be issued only when the Township Zoning Officer is satisfied that such Sign will comply with all the applicable provisions of Article XXIII, Signs.
B.
A Sign permit application shall be made on a form provided by Chadds Ford Township (Zoning Permit Application form). The Applicant should refer to the current Township Fee Schedule to determine the applicable fee.
C.
After the work has been completed in accordance with the provisions of the permit, the Owner or lessor of the Sign shall notify the Township Zoning Officer and the Township Zoning Officer shall conduct an inspection. If the Sign does not violate any provisions of Article XXIII, "Signs" or other applicable ordinances, Resolutions or parts thereof, the permit shall be validated by the signature of the Township Zoning Officer.
D.
All Signs erected, altered or used within any Chadds Ford Township Historic Overlay Districts require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Chadds Ford Township Board of Supervisors after recommendation by the Township's Historic and Architectural Review Board (HARB).