The purpose of this subchapter is to establish a set of standards for the fabrication, creation, and use of signs, symbols, marking or adverting devices within the township to protect public safety, health and welfare; minimize abundance and size of signs to reduce motorist distraction and loss of sight distance; promote public convenience; preserve property values; support and complement objectives of the township master plan, and this chapter; and enhance the aesthetic appearance within the township. The standards contained in this subchapter are intended to be content neutral. These objectives are accomplished by establishing the minimum amount of regulations necessary concerning the size, placement, construction, illumination and other aspects of signs in the township to:

   (A)   Recognize that the proliferation of signs is distracting to motorists and non-motorized travelers, reduces the effectiveness of signs that provide safety directions and warnings to the public, causes confusion, reduces desired uniform traffic flow, and creates potential for accidents.

   (B)   Reduce visual pollution caused by a proliferation of signs that negatively influence the township’s appearance, quality of life and, ultimately, property values.

   (C)   Prevent signs that are potentially dangerous to the public due to structural deficiencies, disrepair, and distraction for motorists, limitations on sight distance or close proximity to roads.

   (D)   Eliminate potential conflicts between business signs and traffic control signs that could create confusion and hazardous consequences.

   (E)   Recognize that the principal intent of commercial signs, to meet the purpose of these standards and serve the public interest, should be to identify an establishment on the premises, and not for advertising special events, brand names or off-premises activities, as these can be advertised more appropriately by other methods.

   (F)   Enable the public to locate goods, services and facilities without excessive difficulty and confusion by restricting the number and placement of signs.

   (G)   Prevent placement of signs that will conceal or obscure signs of adjacent uses.

   (H)   Protect the public right to receive messages, such as religious, political, economic, social, philosophical and other types of information protects by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

   (I)   Prevent off-premises signs from conflicting with land uses.

   (J)   Maintain and improve the image of the township by encouraging signs of consistent size that are compatible with and complementary to related buildings and uses, and harmonious with their surroundings.

   (K)   Restrict the use of portable commercial signs for use only to announce a grand opening or a specific event in recognition of the significant negative impact on traffic safety and aesthetics caused by a proliferation or more frequent use of use signs.

   (L)   Where other more general provisions of this subchapter may conflict with the specific requirements of this subchapter, the requirements of this subchapter shall supersede the general requirements.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)

   For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.

   ABANDONED SIGN.  A sign that advertises a product that is no longer made, a business that is closed, or a past event.

   AGRIBUSINESS.  A sign that identifies a permitted agribusiness such as, but not limited to, a greenhouse, dog kennel, orchard, nursery, or other specialized use or recreational use such as, but not limited to, a golf course, ski club, riding stable.

   AWNING/CANOPY SIGN.  A non-rigid or rigid fabric marquee or awning-type structure that is attached to the building by supporting framework, which includes a business identification message, symbol and/or logo attached directly to, or painted or otherwise inscribed upon an awning or canopy.

   BANNER SIGN.  A fabric, plastic, or other sign made of non-rigid material without an enclosed structural framework.

   BILLBOARD.  See also OFF-PREMISE SIGN. A structure for the permanent display of off-premises advertising. Off-premise advertising is any commercial message referring or relating to an enterprise or business that is not conducted on the premises where the sign is located.

   BUSINESS CENTER.  A grouping of 2 or more business establishments on 1 or more parcels of land that may share parking and access and be linked architecturally or otherwise present the appearance of a unified grouping of businesses. A BUSINESS CENTER shall be considered on use for the purposes of determination of the maximum number of freestanding signs. A vehicle dealership shall be considered a business center regardless of the number or type of models or different manufacturer’s vehicles available. However, used vehicle sale lots shall be considered a separate use in determining the maximum number of freestanding signs, provide that the used sales section of the lot includes at least 25% of the available sales area.

   CANOPY SIGN.  See AWNING SIGN.

   BUSINESS FRONTAGE.  See FRONT OF BUILDING.

   CHANGEABLE MESSAGE/READER BOARD/MESSAGE BOARD SIGN.  That portion of a sign on which copy is changed manually or electronically. Electronic reader boards (ERB) are defined as a changeable message sign and further include dynamic message signs (DMS), electronic billboards (EBB) light emitting diode (LED) displays, and other similar signs.

   COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SIGN.  A commercial vehicle that displays a sign and is parked on a non-residential lot in a manner and duration intended to have it serve as a sign.

   COMMUNITY IDENTIFICATION SIGN.  A sign placed at or near the entrance to a unified residential development consisting of at least 5 dwellings and displaying the name of the residential community or other unified development such as an apartment complex, condominium community, senior housing complex, mobile home park or similar residential use.

   COMMUNITY SPECIAL EVENT SIGN.  Signs and banners, including decorations and displays celebrating a traditionally-accepted patriotic or religious holiday, or special municipal or school activities.

   CONSTRUCTION SIGN.  A sign identifying the name(s) of project owners, contractors, developers, architects, designers, engineers, landscape architects and financiers of a project being constructed or improved but not including advertising of any product or announcement of space availability.

   CURB LINE.  The back line of a curb.

   DAY.  A calendar day rather than a business day.

   DIRECTIONAL SIGN.  A sign that assists motorists in determining or confirming a correct route; specifically, “enter” or “exit” and parking signs.

   DIRECTLY ILLUMINATED SIGN.  A sign illuminated with a light source that is not shielded.

   FLASHING SIGN.  Any illuminated sign on which the artificial light is not maintained stationary or constant in intensity and color at all times when such is in use. Any moving, illuminated sign shall be considered a FLASHING SIGN.

   FREESTANDING/POLE/PYLON SIGN.  A sign which is erected upon or supported by the ground on 1 or more poles, uprights or braces which do not have the appearance of a solid base.

   FRONT OF BUILDING/BUSINESS FRONTAGE.  The wall of the building fronting on the road which is the address of the premises.

   GROUND/MONUMENT SIGN.  A 3-dimensional, self-supporting, base-mounted freestanding sign, consisting of 2 or more sides extending up from the base, and upon which a message, business, group of businesses or center name is affixed.

   INCIDENTAL/NON-COMMERCIAL SIGN.  A small sign, emblem, or decal informing the public of goods, facilities, or services available on the premises. Examples of incidental signs include credit card signs, signs indicating the hours of business, no smoking signs, signs used to designate bathrooms, and signs providing information on business affiliations, political or religious philosophy or opinion.

   INDIRECTLY ILLUMINATED SIGN.  A sign illuminated with a light source so shielded as to illuminate only the surface of the sign.

   INSTITUTIONAL SIGN.  A sign, which by symbol or name identifies an institutional use permitted within a residential zoning district.

   MARQUEE SIGN.  A permanent structure constructed of rigid materials that project from the exterior wall of a building upon which a sign is attached directly or is painted or otherwise inscribed upon a marquee.

   MESSAGE BOARD.  See CHANGEABLE MESSAGE SIGN.

   MURAL.  A design or representation painted or drawn on a wall, which does not advertise an establishment, product, service, or activity.

   NAMEPLATE.  A non-electronic on-premises identification sign giving only the name, address, and/or occupation of an occupant or group of occupants.

   NON-COMMERCIAL SIGN.  See INCIDENTAL SIGN.

   OBSOLETE SIGN.  See ABANDONED SIGN.

   OFF-PREMISE SIGN.  A sign which identifies a use or advertises products and services not available on the site or parcel on which the sign is located (such as, billboards, garage sale signs, residential open house signs, business or institutional signs that are not located on the premises of the identified function). Also, signs that direct travelers or provides a message unrelated to the site where the sign is located.

   ON-PREMISE SIGN.  A sign advertising a business, service, or product sold or produced on the same site or parcel.

   POLE SIGN.  See FREESTANDING SIGN.

   POLITICAL SIGN.  A temporary sign used in connection with an expression of a political opinion or message or an official township, school district, county, state, or federal election or referendum sign.

   PORTABLE SIGN.  A sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently attached to the ground, structure, or a building, including signs with wheels, A-frame signs, signs mounted on vehicles for advertising purposes, hot-air and gas filled balloons, pennants, streamers, ribbons, pinwheels, non-governmental flags and searchlights.

   POSTER PANEL SIGNS.  A portable advertising or business ground sign constructed in such a manner as to form an “A” or tent-like shape, hinged or not hinged at the top; each angular face held at an appropriate distance by a supporting member.

   PREMISES.  A unit of contiguous property under common ownership.

   PROJECTED SIGN.  A sign, other than a wall sign, that is affixed to any building wall surface and the leading edge of the sign extends more than 12 inches beyond the building wall surface.

   PYLON SIGN.  See FREESTANDING SIGN.

   READER BOARD.  See CHANGEABLE MESSAGE SIGN.

   REAL ESTATE SIGN.  An on-premise temporary sign advertising the availability of property or structures for sale, lease or rent.

   REGULATORY SIGN.  A sign installed by a public agency to direct traffic flow, regulate traffic operations and provide information that conforms with the Michigan Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

   RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SIGN.  See COMMUNITY IDENTIFICATION SIGN.

   RESIDENTIAL IDENTIFICATION SIGN.  A sign identifying the name of the occupant, excluding the street address.

   ROOF SIGN.  A sign mounted on the roof of a building, lying either flat against the roof or upright at an angle to the roof pitch.

   SIGN.  Any object, structure, fixture, figure, banner, pennant, flag, balloon or placard that consists of written copy, symbols, logos and/or graphics; used to identify, advertise, display, direct or attract attention to an object, establishment, institution organization, product, goods, services or other message to the general public by means which may include words, letters, figures, symbols, colors, illuminated or projected images.

   SPECIAL EVENT SIGN.  Temporary and portable signs containing public messages concerning special events sponsored by governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, or by businesses for events such as, but not limited to, grand openings, sidewalk sales, seasonal displays and/or special programs.

   SUBDIVISION ENTRANCE/RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SIGN.  See COMMUNITY IDENTIFICATION SIGN.

   TEMPORARY SIGN.  A sign, banner or other advertising device with or without a structural frame, or any other sign intended for a limited period of display, but not including decorative display for holidays, or public demonstration.

   WALL SIGN.  A sign placed or painted flat on the wall surface of a building. This definition does not include roof signs as separately defined herein.

   WINDOW SIGN.  A sign installed on or inside a window and intended to be viewed from the outside.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)

   (A)   Review and approval.  No sign, permanent or temporary, shall be erected, structurally altered, or relocated, except as otherwise provided in this subchapter, without review and approval of the Building Department.

   (B)   Application.  The application for building permit shall be provided by the Building Department and shall contain the proposed location of the sign, the name and address of the sign owner and the sign erector, the name and address of the owner of the business and of the property if different from that of the sign owner, drawings and/or sketches showing the design and location of the sign, and any other information as required by the Building Department to ensure compliance with this subchapter and other ordinances of the township.

   (C)   Fees.  All permit fees for signs shall be established by resolution of the Board of Trustees.

   (D)   Nullification.  A sign permit shall become null and void if the work for which the permit was issued has not been completed within 6 months after the date of the permit.

   (E)   Cost of enforcement.  Any costs or expenses incurred by the township in enforcing this subchapter shall be paid by the owner of the sign found to be in violation of this subchapter; or upon default thereof, by the owner of the sign or the owner of the property to reimburse the township for costs and expenses incurred in such enforcement, the owner of the property shall be billed for such costs and expenses in the same manner as other taxes.

   (F)   Exceptions.  The following shall not require a sign permit:

      (1)   Replacing copy. The changing of the advertising copy or message on an approved painted or printed sign, on a theater marquee and on similar approved signs which are specifically designed for the use of replaceable copy; and

      (2)   Maintenance. Painting, repainting, cleaning or other normal maintenance or repair of a sign or a sign structure, unless a structural change is made.

   (G)   Certificate of compliance/occupancy.  All signs shall require a final inspection and the issuance of a certificate of compliance/occupancy from the Building Department. The property owner shall notify the Building Department immediately upon erecting the sign to request the final inspection.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)

   The Michigan Basic Building Code, as adopted by the Board of Trustees, is the code of the township for the engineering, design, construction and installation specifications for signs regulated by the terms of this subchapter.

   (A)   Measurement of allowable sign area.

      (1)   The allowable area for signs shall be measured by calculating the square footage of the sign face as measured by enclosing the most protruding points or edges of a sign within a triangle, circle, parallelogram or rectangle including any frame.

      (2)   Where a sign has 2 or more faces, the area of only the larger face shall be considered when calculating maximum size, provided all faces are part of the same structure, back-to-back, the same size, contain the same message and are separated by no more than 2 feet.

      (3)   For the purposes of calculating sign area allowed as wall sign, the wall sign square footage shall de determined by measuring a parallelogram (box) that includes the portion of the canopy that contains a message symbol and/or logo.

   (B)   Height.

      (1)   The permitted height of all signs supported by the ground shall be measured from the level of the ground adjacent to the sign if the finished grade is level.

      (2)   If the ground adjacent to the sign is not level, the height of the sign shall be measured from the average elevation of the ground in the general area surrounding the sign.

      (3)   The permitted height of signs shall not be measured from an area of the ground that has been built-up or constructed in a manner that would have the effect of allowing a higher sign height than permitted by this subchapter(such as, the height of signs erected on a berm shall be measured from the finished grade adjacent to the berm).

   (C)   Location. No sign, except those established by the township, county, or state or federal governments shall be located in, project or overhang into any public right-of-way or dedicated easement.

   (D)   Sign setbacks.

      (1)   All permanent signs, shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from any public street right-of-way line, except residential identification signs allowed by this subchapter that are not required to set back from the public or private street right-of-way. The required setback distance for all other signs shall be measured from the nearest edge of the sign, measured at a vertical line perpendicular to the ground to the street right-of-way.

      (2)   Side yard setbacks for signs shall be the same as that required for the main structure or building, provided that all non-residential signs shall be setback at least 100 feet from any residential district.

   (E)   Design and construction.

      (1)   Signs shall not have light reflecting backgrounds but may use light reflecting lettering.

      (2)   All ground signs must be planted with a combination of low shrubbery and perennial/annual plantings.

      (3)   The maximum distance between parallel sign faces on a double-faced sign shall be 20 inches.

      (4)   The background of a multiple tenant commercial or shopping center signs, including individual sign panels within the sign, shall be 1 color. However, individual businesses may have different colored lettering or advertising.

      (5)   All portable signs shall be constructed and maintained by the owner in such a manner and of such materials so that they withstand environmental conditions.

   (F)   Materials.  As permitted in the various zoning districts, signs shall be designed to be compatible with the character of building materials and landscaping to promote an overall unified and aesthetic effect in accordance with the standards set forth herein. Signs shall not be constructed from materials that are remnants or manufactured for a different purpose. Natural materials, such as wood and natural stone are encouraged.

   (G)   Illumination.

      (1)   Signs shall be illuminated only by steady, stationary, shielded light sources directed solely at the sign or internal to it.

      (2)   Use of glaring undiffused lights or bulbs shall be prohibited.

      (3)   Lights shall be shaded so as not to project onto adjoining properties or thoroughfares.

      (4)   Underground wiring shall be required for all illuminated signs not attached to a building.

   (H)   Safety.  Every sign shall be constructed and maintained in a manner consistent with the applicable building code provisions; maintained in good structural condition at all times; and of such materials so that they shall be able to withstand wind pressure of at least 20 pounds per square foot, and able to withstand other environmental concerns. All signs, including any cables, guy wires or supports shall have a minimum clearance of 4 feet from any electric fixture, street light or other public utility pole or standard. All signs shall be kept neatly painted, stained, sealed or preserved including all metal, wood, plastic, and other parts and supports.

   (I)   Clear vision zone.  In order to ensure adequate sight distance for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians, a minimum clear vision area shall be maintained between a height of 2 feet and 6 feet within a triangular area measured 25 feet back from the point of intersection of public or private road right-of-way lines or at a commercial driveway or private road. Greater clear vision areas may be required by the Michigan Department of Transportation or the County Road Commission in particular areas. Furthermore, signs shall not be permitted where they obstruct motorist vision of regulatory signs, traffic control devices of street signs.

   (J)   Change of sign message or business.  The Zoning Administrator may authorize a change in the lettering or business advertised on a sign if no additional surface area or change in location is proposed for an existing sign.

   (K)   Bonus.  The Planning Commission may permit up to a 10% increase in the maximum permitted free-standing sign area, at the sole discretion of the Commission, if extensive landscaping and a decorative base, consistent with the materials of the principal building or overall site plan, are provided.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)

   The following signs are permitted provided that all standards are met in addition to obtaining applicable permits from the Building Department:

   (A)   Agribusiness or recreational use signs.

      (1)   Shall be allowed 1 permanent sign identifying a permitted agribusiness, such as but not limited to: greenhouses, dog kennels, orchards, nurseries, golf courses, riding stables, or other specialized use or recreational use; and

      (2)   Shall not exceed an area of 50 square feet with a maximum height of 6 feet.

   (B)   Billboards/off-premise signs.

      (1)   Shall only be allowed in commercial or industrial zones;

      (2)   Shall be permitted only within 300 feet of I-69, M-21 (Corunna Road), or M-13 (Sheridan Avenue) rights-of-way;

      (3)   Shall be located a maximum of 1,000 feet from residentially zoned land.

      (4)   Shall be separated by at least 2,000 linear feet from any other billboard/off-premise sign;

      (5)   Shall not exceed an area of 1,200 square feet with a maximum height of 35 feet as measured from the elevation of I-69, or M-21, or M-13 directly opposite the lot on which the sign is located; and

      (6)   Shall also be regulated by the Highway Advertising Act, P.A. 106 of 1972, as amended.

   (C)   Changeable message/reader board signs (all). 

      (1)   Shall be allowed only on ground signs in non-residential zones;

      (2)   Shall not exceed more than 40% of total sign area;

      (3)   Shall be allowed with a single background color and a single text color;

      (4)   Gasoline price signs may be permitted as part of a ground sign, but the price signs shall not to exceed 20 square feet in area;

      (5)   Theater marquee signs are not to exceed 100 square feet in area; and

      (6)   Electronic boards shall:

         (a)   Not be less than 1 minute in duration;

         (b)   Not be programmed with any animated, scrolling or flashing messages, symbols, logos, or other graphics. Only text and static logos are permissible;

         (c)   Have a minimum separation distance of 200 feet from any other reader board;

         (d)   Shall comply within the following thresholds for luminance:

 

 

         (e)   Be maintained in good repair at all times. If any part of the message display is not functioning properly, the use of the reader board sign will be discontinued until sufficient repairs are made.

   (D)   Church signs.

      (1)   Shall be allowed in all districts for the purpose of identifying the church or church affiliated school, parsonage, or other facility (for signs including a message or bulletin-type face also see institutional bulletin board signs);

      (2)   Shall be allowed 1 sign per parcel, except on a corner parcel, where 2 signs shall be permitted facing respective streets. One additional sign shall be permitted for each school, parsonage, or other related facility;

      (3)   Shall not exceed 32 square feet with a maximum height of 6 feet (an area of 50 square feet allowed when used in conjunction with institutional bulletin board); and

      (4)   Shall comply with all setback requirements for the district in which they are located.

   (E)   Community identification signs.

      (1)   Shall be allowed 1 permanent sign per entrance to a residential development;

      (2)   Shall not exceed an area of 64 square feet with a maximum height of 6 feet;

      (3)   Shall be allowed 2 signs in a wing-wall arrangement facing opposite directions on opposite sides of an entrance drive may be permitted by the Planning Commission in cases where it is demonstrated that a single 2-sided sign could not be seen by approaching traffic from both directions on a single road or where the 2-sided sign will create a traffic hazard.

   (F)   Freestanding/pole/pylon signs.

      (1)   Shall be allowed 1 sign per business or shopping/business center advertising name of establishment or center;

      (2)   Shall not exceed a total display area of 200 square feet with a maximum height of 30 feet. Wall or canopy signs shall be permitted for individual businesses in a shopping/business center. Individual business shall not be permitted to establish free-standing signs; and

      (3)   Shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from all road rights-of-way or easement lines.

   (G)   Institutional bulletin board signs for churches, schools, municipal buildings, museums, or libraries.

      (1)   Shall be permanent signs;

      (2)   Shall not exceed an area of 50 square feet with a maximum height of 6 feet; and

      (3)   Shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet from the road right-of-way.

   (H)   Menu board signs.

      (1)   Shall be allowed only in commercial zones where conforming use includes a drive-through facility;

      (2)   Shall be allowed 2 signs per location. The menu board may contain a communication system for placing orders for food or other merchandise;

      (3)   Shall not exceed an area of 24 square feet;

      (4)   Shall not be located between the front wall of the principal structure on the site and the street.

   (I)   Real estate development sales/construction signs.

      (1)   Shall be allowed in all zoning districts;

      (2)   Shall be allowed 1 sign per site, erected during the construction period and shall be removed 14 days after final occupancy permit is issued;

      (3)   Shall not exceed an area of 32 square fee with a maximum height of 6 feet;

      (4)   Shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from any property line or right-of-way.

   (J)   Wall signs.

      (1)   Shall be flat signs attached and parallel to the face of the building wall;

      (2)   Shall be allowed 1 sign per street on each parcel;

         (a)   Buildings adjacent to I-69 shall be permitted 1 additional wall sign facing I-69;

         (b)   Shopping centers or multi-tenant buildings shall be permitted 1 wall sign per tenant. Tenants occupying a corner space shall be permitted to have 1 sign per side of building. Where several tenants share a common entrance only 1 wall sign shall be permitted, with the total sign area allocated among the tenants;

      (4)   Shall not exceed 90% of width of wall to which sign is attached with a maximum height of 10 feet;

      (5)   Shall extend no greater than 15 inches from the exterior face of the wall to which it is attached;

      (6)   Shall be a minimum of 8 feet above the ground level or sidewalk, whichever is greater; and

      (7)   Shall not extend or project above the highest elevation of the wall to which it is attached.

   (K)   Window signs.

      (1)   Shall be allowed 1 sign per window;

      (2)   Shall not cover more than 25% of the window;

      (3)   Shall count towards permitted wall sign area; and

      (4)   Shall not be illuminated by a direct light source.

   (L)   Political signs. Other than official government signs or warning signs required by law, no campaign sign shall be permitted without complying with the following requirements.

      (1)   Posting. A campaign sign posted on private property must have permission of the property owner before placing a sign in the yard; even if the person is a known supporter.

      (2)   Time frame. Campaign signs may be posted 30 days prior to the election date and must be removed within 10 days after the election.

      (3)   Location.

         (a)   Campaign signs cannot be posted in a place that blocks the public right-of-way. For example, signs cannot be set in a place which obstructs the view of cars and/or pedestrians.

         (b)   Campaign signs cannot be posted on any municipal or governmental properties.

      (4)   Size. Campaign sign dimensions may range between 2 feet by 2 feet [2' x 2'] and 4 feet by 8 feet [4' x 8'].

      (5)   Style. Style is subject to the sponsor but must not violate the provisions outlined in § 152.091, Prohibited Signs.

      (6)   Compliance. Campaign signs not meeting the aforementioned criteria must be removed. Any person, partnership, firm, or corporation, who violates, disobeys, omits, neglects, or refuses to comply or who resists the enforcement of any of the provisions of Title XV, Chapter 152, § 152.089(L), political sign ordinance, shall be deemed responsible for a civil municipal infraction subject to the terms and penalties set forth in §§ 150.65 through 150.72.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008; Am. Ord. 444, passed 9-12-2013)

   (A)   Construction signs.  Construction signs are subject to height and clearance limitation applicable to the premises for a permanent sign, and subject to the following:

      (1)   Signs in residential districts provided that they do not exceed 16 square feet in surface area per face and are set back at least 15 feet from the road right-of-way.

      (2)   Signs in all other districts provided they do not exceed 192 square feet in surface area and are set back at least 5 feet from the nearest property line, and shall be erected in such a manner as not to create a traffic vision hazard.

      (3)   Construction signs shall not be permitted in any district for more than 10 days after issuance of the occupancy permit.

   (B)   Flags.  Flags which are decorative or bear the official design of a nation, state, municipality, educational institution, or non-profit organization.

   (C)   Garage sale/estate sale signs.  Garage sale/estate sale signs provided that they are not attached to public utility poles and/or and do not exceed 6 square feet in area; and that they are erected no more than 10 days before the sale day and are removed within 1 day after the announced sale.

   (D)   Gas station pump island signs. Gas station pump island signs located on the structural supports identifying “self-serve” and “full-serve” operations, provided that there is no business identification or advertising copy on the signs, that there are no more than 2 signs per pump island and that the signs do not exceed 4 square feet in area.

   (E)   Help wanted signs. Help wanted signs soliciting employees for a place of business provided that the maximum area for all such signs shall be 6 square feet in area and posted at the place of business.

   (F)   Historical designation signs. Historical designation signs designating a building as a historic structure and/or a designation as a centennial farm, such signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in area.

   (G)   Integral signs.  Integral signs are memorial signs or tablets names of buildings and date of erection, monumental citations, commemorative tablets when carved into stone, concrete or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum or other non-combustible material and made an integral part of the structure and not exceeding 25 square feet in area.

   (H)   Menu and order boards.  Menu and order boards for drive-through facilities provided the signs shall be located on the interior of the lot and not legible from adjacent properties. The placement, size, content, manner of illumination and sound level of the signs shall not constitute a traffic or pedestrian hazard and shall not be located in a front yard.

   (I)   Miscellaneous signs.

      (1)   Gas station pumps, vending machines, and ice containers. Gas station pumps, vending machines, and ice containers placards, not to exceed 2 square feet in area, located on top of gas station pumps, vending machines, and ice containers which indicate the contents and/or announcing on-premises sales.

      (2)   Non-commercial sign. Non-commercial sign provided the signs do not exceed 2 square feet in area.

      (3)   Sign in enclosed building.  Any sign which is located completely within an enclosed building and not visible from outside the building.

   (J)   Nameplates.  Nameplates identifying the occupants of the building shall not exceed 2 square feet. A limit of 1 nameplate sign per lot shall be permitted per residence or business. In the case of a corner lot, a maximum of 2 nameplate signs may be permitted per residence or business.

   (K)   Real estate related signs.

      (1)   Real estate signs.  Real estate signs advertising a single lot or residence not exceeding an area of 8 square feet.

      (2)   Portable real estate “open house” signs.  Portable real estate “open house” signs with an area no greater than 4 square feet.

      (3)   Model signs.  Model signs which are temporary signs directing the public to a model home or unit, such signs shall not exceed 6 square feet in area.

      (4)   Rental office directional sign.  Rental office directional sign, up to 2 signs identifying or directing motorists to a rental or management office in a multiple family development, provided that such signs are a maximum of 4 feet in height, are set back a minimum of 10 feet from any property line or public right-of-way, and do not exceed 3 square feet in area.

   (L)   Residential identification signs.  Residential identification signs identifying the address and occupant of a residence of a total height no greater than 6 inches for residences and 18 inches for businesses. A limit of 1 sign per lot shall be permitted per residence or business. In the case of a corner lot, a maximum of 2 address signs may be permitted per residence or business. Address numbers on mailboxes are excluded from these requirements.

   (M)   Seasonal decorations and community event signs. Seasonal decorations and community event signs which advertise public entertainment or events of public interest, providing the sign be erected not more than 21 days before and 7 days after the event and may not exceed 32 square feet in area.

   (N)   Traffic related signs.

      (1)   Regulatory, directional and street signs.  Regulatory, directional and street signs erected by a public agency in compliance with Michigan Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices Manual, and the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards and Michigan Barrier-Free Manual and other signs erected to comply with other governmental regulations.

      (2)   Private traffic control signs.  Private traffic control signs which conform to the requirements of the Michigan Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

      (3)   Parking lot signs.  Parking lot signs indicating restriction on parking, when placed within a permitted parking lot, shall be a maximum of 6 feet in height, and shall not exceed 6 square feet in area.

      (4)   Driveway directional signs.  Driveway directional signs no more than 1 directional sign shall be permitted per approved driveway, with a maximum sign area of 4 square feet per sign, and a maximum height of 3 feet. Any area of a directional sign that includes a business name, symbol or logo shall be calculated as part of the allowable business sign square footage, as specified.

   (O)   Vehicle signs.  Vehicle signs on a bus, truck, trailer, or other vehicle while operated and used for transport in the normal course of a business.

   (P)   Warning signs.  Warning signs not exceeding 6 square feet in area where only 1 sign is used or 2 square feet where 2 or more signs are used which include, but are not limited to, warning of electrical currents, “No Trespassing”, “No Hunting”, “Beware of Dog” and “No Dumping” signs, such signs shall be spaced no closer than necessary to alert the public of the restriction.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008; Am. Ord. 443, passed 9-12-2013)

   (A)   Any sign not expressly permitted.

   (B)   Any sign or sign structure which:

      (1)   Is structurally unsafe;

      (2)   Constitutes a hazard to safety or health by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, or abandonment;

      (3)   Constitutes a hazard to safety or health by reason of blocking views;

      (4)   Is capable of causing electric shock to a person who comes in contact with it;

      (5)   Is unlawfully installed, erected, or maintained;

      (6)   Is located in a public street or utility right-of-way, except where expressly permitted herein; or

      (7)   Is not kept in good repair, such that it has broken parts, missing letters, or non-operational lights.

   (C)   Abandoned/obsolete signs.

   (D)   Real estate signs no longer valid due to the sale, rental, or lease of the property.

   (E)   Signs with flashing or moving lights.

   (F)   Moving signs, including any sign which has visible moving parts, visible revolving parts, visible mechanical movement, or other visible movement achieved by electrical, electronic, or mechanical means, including intermittent electric pulsations or movement caused by normal wind current, excludes barber poles and electronic time/temperature signs that do not contain business messages.

   (G)   Signs that simulate or could in any way be confused with the lighting of emergency vehicles or traffic signals.

   (H)   Any sign which makes use of the words “stop”, “look”, or “danger”, or any other words, phrases, symbols, or characters, in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.

   (I)   Any signs which contains obscene, indecent, or immoral matter.

   (J)   Any sign erected within 10 feet of a fire hydrant.

   (K)   Any sign which obstructs vision or free access to or egress from a required door, window, fire escape, or other required exit from a building or structure.

   (L)   Balloons, pennants, festoons, inflatable figures, spinners, and streamers, unless specifically permitted by this subchapter.

   (M)   String lights used for commercial purposes, other than holiday decorations. Holiday decorations are admissible only 45 days per calendar year per holiday.

   (N)   Any sign erected on a tree or utility pole, except government or utility signs of a government or utility.

   (O)   Portable signs, except where expressly permitted by this subchapter.

   (P)   Signs affixed to a parked vehicle or truck trailer which is being used principally for advertising purposes, rather than for transportation purposes, and parked close to a street in a large commercial parking lot.

   (Q)   Business logos on directional signs.

   (R)   Billboards/off-premises signs, unless provided for in this subchapter or covered under the State Highway Act.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)

   Temporary signs are permitted in any commercial or industrial district, provided all other standards of this subchapter are met and permits for the sign have been obtained from the Building Department. The temporary signs may be double-faced and shall not exceed 32 square feet in surface display area per face and shall not exceed 6 feet in height. Wind-blown devices, such as pennants, spinners, and streamers shall also be allowed on the site of the business during a grand opening or business special event. All temporary signs and wind-blown devices shall be located on the site where the business is located and shall be set back not less than 10 feet from all road rights-of way.

   (A)   Temporary grand opening signs. One temporary grand opening sign shall be permitted on a site for a period not to exceed 21 days for those businesses that are new to a particular location. In the event new owners acquire the business and the business name changes when the new owners begin operation, the business shall be considered to be “new” for the purposes of enforcement of this division.

   (B)   Business or institutional special event signs. Each business, school, church or other institution may advertise special events such as sidewalk sales, seasonal displays and special programs for a period not to exceed 30 days in any calendar year. Signs for special events shall be subject to the review and approval of the Planning Commission.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)

   (A)   Inspections.  Signs for which a permit is required may be inspected periodically by the Building Official, or his/her designee, for compliance with this subchapter and with other ordinances of the township.

   (B)   Maintenance.  All signs and components thereof shall be kept in good repair and in a safe, neat, clean and attractive condition.

   (C)   Removal.

      (1)   The Building Official may order the removal of any permanent sign and its supporting structure erected or maintained in violation of this subchapter. The Building Official shall give 30 days notice in writing, to the owner of such sign and its supporting structure to bring it into compliance. Any sign erected of a temporary nature shall require written notice of only 3 days.

      (2)   Upon failure to comply with this notice, the Building Department representative may remove the sign and its supporting structure. The Building Department representative may remove a sign and its supporting structure immediately and without notice if, in his or her opinion, the condition of the sign and its supporting structure presents an immediate threat to the safety of the public. The cost of removal by the township shall be assessed against the owner of such sign or the owner of the building, structure or premises and the cost of this work will be placed on the tax roll.

   (D)   Obsolete signs.

      (1)   An obsolete sign and its supporting structure shall be removed by the property owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located when the business which it advertises is no longer conducted on the premises. If the property owner or lessee fails to remove it within 60 days of the date that the business becomes inactive, the Building Official may remove the sign and it supporting structure and the cost of this work will be placed on the tax roll.

      (2)   Where a successor to an inactive business agrees, within 30 days of the date of written notice by the Building Official, to maintain the sign as provided for in this subchapter, this removal requirement shall not apply, provided that the existing sign and structure conforms to all current sign requirements.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)

   The Zoning Board of Appeals may hear requests for variances from the regulations set forth in this subchapter. Requests for variance shall be reviewed for compliance with the following:

   (A)   Variances may be granted for any 1 of the following conditions:

      (1)   The applicant has demonstrated a variance is needed due to a practical difficulty on the site, such as varied topography, horizontal or vertical road curvature, or presence of structures or desired trees that limit visibility of a sign on the premises compared to similar sites with conforming signs in the same zoning district;

      (2)   A variance is warranted due to the relatively large size of the site, frontage or building in comparison to other establishments in the same zoning district; or

      (3)   A variance would significantly improve the conformity of an existing sign.

   (B)   To grant a variance for 1 of the conditions specified above, all of the following standards must be met:

      (1)   The inability to conform with the requirements of this subchapter is due to a hardship or practical difficulty; and

      (2)   That the alleged hardships or practical difficulties, or both, are exceptional and peculiar to the property of the person who requested the variance, and result from conditions which do not exist generally throughout the township.

(Ord. 434, passed 7-10-2008)