Hanover Township City Zoning Code
ARTICLE XX
Signs
[Amended 7-9-1987 by Ord. No. 22-87; 12-22-1988 by Ord. No. 36-88; 11-20-1989 by Ord. No. 37-89; 8-23-1990 by Ord. No. 35-90; 4-23-1992 by Ord. No. 7-92]
§ 166-139 Required permits and approvals.
[Amended 7-10-2014 by Ord. No. 30-14; 3-14-2024 by Ord. No. 4-2024]
No sign shall be constructed or displayed unless a permit shall have first been obtained from the Zoning Officer, unless specifically exempted by this chapter. Prior to the issuance of such permits, freestanding principal signs shall obtain site plan approval unless exempted by this chapter or other applicable law.
§ 166-140 Measurement of sign area and height.
[Amended 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017]
A.
For purposes of this chapter, the area of signs shall be calculated as follows:
(1)
The sign area shall be calculated based upon the entire face of the sign, including the advertising surface and any framing, trim, or molding, and any defined background (e.g., color panel, sign board, etc.). See illustration below.
 SIGN AREA = AREA OF CIRCLE |  SIGN AREA = A X B |
(2)
When there is no defined sign background, for example, when individual letters are mounted on a wall of a building without any different color or material than the balance of the wall, or when the defined sign background is smaller than the sign letters or symbols, the sign area shall be calculated based upon the area of the smallest rectangle which includes all of the sign elements. See illustration below.
 |  |
(3)
When a sign is comprised of multiple elements, for example, in a directory sign, the sign area shall be calculated based upon the area of the smallest rectangle which includes all of the sign elements, including the advertising surface and any framing, trim, or molding, and any defined background (e.g., color panel, sign board, etc.), including the space between the sign elements. See illustration below.
 |
(4)
When a sign is comprised of multiple elements, some with a defined background and some without a defined background, the sign area shall include the area of the smallest rectangle which includes all of the sign elements.
 SIGN AREA = A X B |
(5)
The area of freestanding signs shall be calculated in the same manner as other signs, except that those structures used solely for support of the sign, and not designed as part of the face of the sign (such face including the advertising surface and any framing, trim, or molding, and any defined background) shall be excluded from the sign area.
(6)
Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions for calculating the area of signs with multiple elements, if in the judgment of the reviewing agency such multiple elements are not designed to be viewed together as a single sign, such elements shall be construed to be separate signs, with the area of each sign to be calculated separately, and such signs shall be subject to any applicable restrictions on the maximum permitted number of signs.
B.
The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from normal grade to, in the case of signs attached to buildings or other similar structures, the top of the highest point of the sign or, in the case of freestanding signs, the highest point of any structure upon which the sign is located, whichever is greater. Normal grade shall be construed to be the newly established grade after construction, exclusive of any filling, berms, mounding or excavating installed primarily for the purpose of locating the sign.
§ 166-141 Regulations applicable in all zones.
A.
All applications seeking approval for signs shall submit at least the following information concerning said sign(s):
(1)
Sign area, dimensions and height above ground;
(2)
Dimensions of letters or other symbols in the sign;
(3)
A view of the front of the sign, and the rear in the case of two-sided signs if different from the front;
(4)
A cross section of the end view of the sign;
(5)
A description of sign materials, including type, color, texture, etc.;
(6)
The method of sign illumination (if any), including a detail showing the number, location and wattage of bulbs or other light sources, reflectors and shields, type of light source, etc.;
(7)
A detail showing the construction of the sign base, pole or other support; and
(8)
Any landscaping which exists or is proposed in proximity to the sign.
B.
No sign shall be placed as to interfere with or be mistaken for a traffic light or similar safety device. No sign shall be located so as to create a traffic safety problem or reduce visibility at intersections or driveways.
C.
All illuminated signs must comply with the following regulations:
(1)
No sign shall be lighted by means of flashing, fluctuating, changing or intermittent illumination. No sign shall be illuminated such that the illumination changes the sign content or message, except for gasoline pricing signs as permitted by this chapter and as regulated by other applicable law.
[Amended 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017]
(2)
All lights used for the illumination of any sign shall be completely shielded from the view of vehicular traffic using the road(s) abutting the properties containing such signs and shall be directed so as to prevent excessive glare on adjacent properties or sidewalks.
(3)
Internal light sources, wall-mounted or sign-mounted fixtures, or ground-based fixtures may be used for illumination.
[Amended 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017]
(4)
There shall be no illumination of any freestanding sign between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., except when the business identified on the sign and operating at the sign location is open for business.
[Amended 5-12-2016 by Ord. No. 15-16; 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017]
(5)
No sign shall be illuminated from an internal light source unless it complies with the following requirements:
(a)
All internally illuminated signs shall be designed to minimize glare.
(b)
The light bulb or other light source shall not be visible from outside the sign. The light source shall be diffused to eliminate hot spots.
D.
No sign as permitted shall extend or project above the highest elevation of the wall to which it is attached.
E.
Freestanding signs necessary for directional or safety purposes on the property are permitted in addition to the other signs permitted in the respective zone districts, subject to the following requirements:
[Amended 5-9-2013 by Ord. No. 14-13]
(1)
Standard traffic control signs. Standardized signs for traffic control and direction, including but not limited to "stop," "yield," "one-way," "do not enter" signs, shall comply with the standards set forth in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, as approved by the Township Engineer.
(2)
Directional signs. Directional signs are distinguished from directory signs, as regulated by § 166-147C, and from other signs of a similar nature specifically regulated by this chapter or other applicable law, such as loading bay signs regulated by § 166-147E. Directional signs shall be defined as signs that direct travelers to various buildings, driveways, parking or loading or other areas, or which provide information concerning the use of or restrictions for such areas, and not to advertise site uses, products or services to the traveling public. Directional signs shall be subject to the following requirements:
[Amended 3-14-2024 by Ord. No. 4-2024; 10-10-2019 by Ord. No. 38-19]
(a)
Maximum quantity. The quantity of such signs shall be the minimum necessary to provide reasonable direction to site users, as determined by the reviewing agency.
(b)
Content. Sign content containing the name and/or logo of any business, tenant, owner, or development shall not exceed three square feet.
(c)
Location. Directional signs shall be located where they will not interfere with reasonable sight distance for vehicles and pedestrians, with pedestrian or vehicular travel, with utilities and with other site improvements.
(d)
Maximum area. Except as provided otherwise for large nonresidential developments in Subsection E(3) below, directional signs shall be limited to a maximum area of six square feet.
(e)
Maximum height. Freestanding directional signs shall be limited to a maximum height of eight feet. The height of building-mounted directional signs shall be subject to the same height restrictions as other wall signs on the property.
(3)
Directional signs for large nonresidential projects. Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsection E(2) above, directional signs for large nonresidential developments having a gross floor area of at least 250,000 square feet on tracts at least 50 acres in area shall be subject to the following requirements:
(a)
The quantity content and location of such signs shall be as required in Subsection E(2) above.
(b)
Maximum area. Directional signs shall be limited to a maximum area of 30 square feet.
(c)
Maximum height. Directional signs shall be limited to a maximum height of seven feet.
F.
Temporary on-site signs used as an accessory to new construction or alteration on the premises, identifying the project and/or the contractor, are permitted in all zones. Such signs shall only be erected after all required approvals and permits for such development have been obtained, such sign has been approved by the Zoning Officer and all applicable fees for such sign have been paid. Such signs shall be registered with and the fee paid to the Construction Official. The following provisions shall apply:
[Amended 3-23-2006 by Ord. No. 10-2006; 7-14-2016 by Ord. No. 20-16]
(1)
In nonresidential zones, said temporary signs shall not be larger than 12 square feet and must be removed prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for said construction, or within seven days of the completion of construction if no certificate of occupancy is required. One sign shall be permitted to identify the project and one sign shall be permitted to identify the general and/or subcontractors for the project, but no more than two temporary construction signs shall be permitted for any site.
(2)
In residential zones, the area of said signs shall not exceed six square feet and the height of said signs shall not exceed four feet. Only one temporary construction sign shall be permitted for any site. Such signs may only be displayed during the period of construction and in no event for more than 30 days from the date the sign was first displayed. The period of construction shall be construed to begin with the issuance of all approvals for such construction and end with the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or other final approval of the as-built construction or, in the case of improvements that are not subject to as-built inspection or approval, with the completion of the improvements.
(3)
Temporary construction signs shall not be located closer than 10 feet to the property line.
G.
A real estate sign is permitted in all zones, provided that it complies with all of the following requirements:
(1)
It must not be illuminated.
(2)
It must pertain only to the lease or sale of the lot upon which it is placed.
(3)
It shall not exceed 12 square feet in area.
(4)
It shall be removed within seven days after the consummation of the lease or sale transaction.
(5)
A building permit must be obtained from the Building Inspector.
H.
Signs deemed necessary to the public welfare by the Township Committee are permitted in all zones. Such signs shall not pertain to any company, individual or business establishment.
I.
Signs for institutional uses are permitted on the same lot as the institutional use to which the sign is accessory. Such signs shall be subject to the following requirements:
[Amended 7-14-2016 by Ord. No. 20-16]
(1)
One freestanding sign and one sign affixed to each principal or accessory building shall be permitted.
(2)
The maximum area of any sign shall be 30 square feet.
(3)
Freestanding signs shall be located at least 20 feet from any property line in the residential zones, and as required for other principal signs in the nonresidential zones, and shall be located so as to not interfere with safe sight distance at intersections of roadways and driveways.
(4)
Freestanding signs shall not exceed a height of 10 feet.
(5)
In addition to permitted permanent signs, a temporary nonilluminated sign may be displayed not more than twice a year for periods not to exceed 30 days each, provided that such temporary signs are registered with the Building Inspector. Such signs shall not exceed an area of 12 square feet and shall be located at least 10 feet from any property line.
J.
Real estate signs as permitted in Subsection G above shall be located in the rear half of the front yard or the rear half of the minimum required front yard setback, whichever results in a lesser setback.
[Amended 7-14-2016 by Ord. No. 20-16]
K.
Political signs as defined in this chapter shall be permitted in any use district, subject to the following restrictions:
(1)
One attached sign may be placed upon one privately owned building designated and serving as the campaign headquarters of any candidate or group of candidates running for election to public office. Such attached sign shall not exceed 20 square feet in area.
(2)
In addition to an attached sign as regulated herein, freestanding signs are permitted. Such signs shall not exceed eight square feet in area nor eight feet in height. Such signs shall have a minimum setback of 1/2 the front yard setback required in the zone district in which the property is located.
(3)
No such sign shall be erected, posted or displayed more than 15 days prior to the date of the election to which such sign pertains, and any such sign shall be removed not more than five days after the date of such election.
[Amended 6-12-1997 by Ord. No. 20-97]
(4)
Any person, firm or corporation, including any candidate, group of candidates or political organization, who shall erect or display or who shall cause or permit to be erected or displayed any such sign on premises subject to his or its control in violation of the terms of this subsection shall, upon conviction thereof, be punishable for a violation of this chapter.
L.
Flags of the United States, the State of New Jersey, the County of Morris, the Township of Hanover, foreign nations having diplomatic relations with the United States and any other flag adopted or sanctioned by an elected legislative body of competent jurisdiction shall be permitted in all zones, and in the circumstances set forth below, flags displaying the name and/or logo of a business shall be permitted, provided that the following requirements are met:
[Amended 10-27-2011 by Ord. No. 28-11]
(1)
No flagpole shall be constructed the top of which is more than 40 feet above the ground or five feet above the height of the existing principal building, whichever is less.
(2)
If attached to a building, a flagpole shall not exceed 15 feet in length and shall comply with the above height requirement.
(3)
One freestanding flagpole shall be permitted per lot, provided that in the nonresidential zone districts, up to three freestanding flagpoles shall be permitted on a lot when the second and third flagpoles, as applicable, are located at least 300 feet from any public street right-of-way.
[Amended 4-11-2013 by Ord. No. 13-13]
(4)
Except as provided otherwise in Subsection L(3) above, all freestanding flagpoles shall be located no closer to any property line than a distance 1 1/2 times the height of the flagpole. In addition to the above requirement, flagpoles in the front yard shall not be located closer to the street than the rear half of the required front yard setback. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any flagpoles displaying a flag containing the name and/or logo of a business as permitted herein shall be located at least 300 feet from any public street right-of-way.
[Amended 4-11-2013 by Ord. No. 13-13]
(5)
All freestanding flagpoles shall require site plan approval, unless accessory to single-family detached or two-family dwellings.
(6)
Permitted flags must be flown in accordance with protocol established by the Congress of the United States for the Stars and Stripes.
M.
All signs which are not specifically permitted herein are prohibited. In addition, the following signs are specifically prohibited:
(1)
Window signs, except where specifically noted otherwise.
(2)
Snipe signs, including any sign attached to a tree, utility pole, light stanchion, fence or other structure not designed for support of said sign.
(3)
Roof signs.
(4)
Portable or movable signs.
(5)
Signs painted or attached to any vehicle advertising a business and which are intended to be viewed while the vehicle is stationary.
(6)
Signs with more than two display faces.
(7)
A double-faced sign having an included angle of over 20°.
(8)
All signs which move, rotate or use flashing lights or utilize mechanically changing displays.
(9)
Pennants streamers, banners and flags, except those flags permitted by § 166-141L and those banners and pennants permitted by § 166-141N.
[Amended 5-9-2013 by Ord. No. 14-13]
N.
Banners and pennants.
[Added 5-9-2013 by Ord. No. 14-13]
(1)
When permitted. Banners and pennants shall only be permitted for larger nonresidential developments, such as but not limited to office or industrial parks, containing a gross floor area of at least 250,000 square feet and a lot area of at least 50 acres.
(2)
Location. Banners and pennants shall be located at least 200 feet from a public street right-of-way.
(3)
Maximum area: 12 square feet per banner or pennant.
(4)
Maximum height: 15 feet.
O.
Temporary special event signs on public property. Temporary special event signs shall be permitted in accordance with the following requirements:
[Added 7-10-2014 by Ord. No. 30-14; amended 12-11-2014 by Ord. No. 43-14]
(1)
For purposes of this subsection, "temporary special event sign" refers to a sign that announces a short-term happening or special occurrence in the Township that is sponsored by a nonprofit organization and of general interest to the community.
(2)
Such signs shall be located only on the property where the special event is to occur or within the right-of-way of public streets, but not on other public property.
(3)
Such signs shall be erected and displayed for up to seven consecutive days. No subsequent temporary special event sign announcing or identifying the same or equivalent special event shall be permitted to be erected or displayed within seven days of the prior display of such sign.
(4)
The area of such signs shall not exceed six square feet.
(5)
Signs shall be prohibited on the paved area of roadways or walkways, and shall not be permitted to encroach within the air space above such areas.
(6)
Such signs shall be separated from any signs pertaining to a different special event by a horizontal distance of at least 40 feet.
(7)
The following temporary special event signs and sign placement shall be prohibited:
(a)
Inflatable devices (except balloons), streamers, flags and pennants.
(b)
"Snipe signs," including any signs attached to trees, utility poles, light poles, fences, traffic signs or other structures that are not designed to function solely as a support for the sign.
(c)
Signs painted or attached to any motor vehicle or other vehicle or equipment advertising a business, service, event or property, except for such signs that are painted on or affixed to a motor vehicle registered as a commercial vehicle, when such sign is used to identify the business for which the vehicle is registered.
(d)
Signs that move, rotate or use flashing lights, or that utilize mechanically changing displays.
(8)
Such signs shall comply with the requirements of § 166-141B.
(9)
Such signs shall be exempt from the requirement to obtain a permit.
P.
Temporary signs for opening of new retail sales and retail service establishments. Retail sales and retail service establishments shall be permitted to display temporary signs when the establishment first opens on a property in the Township. Such signage shall be subject to the following requirements:
[Added 10-11-2018 by Ord. No. 24-2018]
(1)
For purposes of this subsection, a "new retail sales and retail service establishment" shall be construed to mean such an establishment that is a change in use or brand from the prior use or brand on the site or in the building, and which requires the issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
(2)
A zoning permit shall be required from the Zoning Officer prior to the display of such signage.
(3)
Permitted display period.
(a)
Once issued, permits for such signs shall be valid for a period of 30 days, at which time the sign must be removed.
(b)
Permits are nonrenewable.
(c)
Such signs shall not be displayed after 60 days have elapsed since the opening of the store to the public for business, with such opening defined as the date that the initial certificate of occupancy, temporary certificate of occupancy, or certificate of continued occupancy was issued for the business, whichever applied and whichever occurred first.
(4)
Number of signs. One such sign shall be permitted for each business.
(5)
Permitted types. Such signs may be freestanding or wall-mounted.
(6)
Freestanding signs shall comply with the following requirements:
(a)
The area of the sign shall not exceed 50 square feet on any side.
(b)
The height of the sign shall not exceed 10 feet.
(c)
The sign shall be located at least 10 feet from any front lot line, and shall also be located so as to not obstruct access, reasonable sight lines at intersections for vehicle operators or pedestrians, or the view of other signs on the same property or adjacent property or public street and so as not to create any other unsafe condition, all as determined by the Zoning Officer.
(d)
Freestanding signs shall not include any signs of the type prohibited by § 166-141M.
(7)
If mounted, on the building, such signs may be located on the building wall or in the storefront window area, and shall comply with the following requirements:
(a)
The area of the sign shall not exceed 50 square feet on any side.
(b)
Such signs shall not include any signs of the type prohibited by § 166-141M, except for window signs and banners.
(c)
Such signs shall be securely attached to the building, and not designed to flap or otherwise move due to wind or other forces.
(8)
Illumination. Such signs shall not be illuminated.
§ 166-142 Signs in the R-40, R-25, R-15, R-10, and R-10A Zone Districts.
[Amended 8-12-2010 by Ord. No. 22-10; 9-12-2013 by Ord. No. 17-13]
In addition to the signs permitted in all districts, the only sign permitted is one nameplate sign for each dwelling not more than one square foot in area.
§ 166-143 Signs in the RM, RM-2, RM-3, RM-4, RM-5, RM-6, RM-7, AH-1 and AH-2 Zone Districts.
[Amended 12-22-1993 by Ord. No. 36-93; 10-10-1996 by Ord. No. 15-96; 11-14-2002 by Ord. No. 25-2002; 3-11-2004 by Ord. No. 3-2004; 12-19-2005 by Ord. No. 36-2005; 8-12-2010 by Ord. No. 22-10; 6-9-2011 by Ord. No. 20-11; 8-14-2014 by Ord. No. 36-14; 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017; 3-12-2020 by Ord. No. 8-2020; 2-11-2021 by Ord. No. 4-2021; 4-14-2022 by Ord. No. 11-2022]
A.
In the RM, RM-2, RM-3, RM-4, RM-5, RM-6, RM-7, AH-1 and AH-2 Zone Districts, each multifamily or townhouse development shall be entitled to one freestanding sign at each vehicular entrance to the development, provided that such signs comply with the following requirements; provided, further, that if the RM or RM-2 Zone is developed for residential use other than multifamily housing, the provisions of § 166-142 shall apply.
(1)
The area of each sign shall not exceed eight square feet.
(2)
The height of each sign shall not exceed six feet.
(3)
All such signs shall be set back at least 10 feet from any street right-of-way.
(4)
Said sign shall be an identification sign only, limited to the name of the development or project on site.
(5)
The design and location of all such signs shall be subject to the review and approval of the Planning Board.
B.
In the case of multifamily or townhouse developments having multiple buildings, each development shall be permitted to have a directory sign or signs. Such signs shall be designed to direct visitors to the various buildings in the development, and shall comply with the following, in addition to all other applicable requirements of this chapter:
(1)
The area of each sign shall not exceed four square feet.
(2)
The height of each sign shall not exceed five feet.
(3)
All such signs shall be set back at least 10 feet from any street right-of-way.
(4)
The design and location of all such signs shall be subject to the review and approval of the Planning Board.
C.
In the case of multifamily or townhouse developments having multiple buildings, each building shall be permitted to have one sign on each building. Such signs shall be designed to identify the various buildings for visitors, mail delivery and emergency response personnel, and shall comply with the following, in addition to all other applicable requirements of this chapter:
(1)
The area, size and location of each sign shall be as required by the various emergency service agencies.
(2)
In the case of a community center, clubhouse or similar building designed to serve residents and guests of the development, the sign area shall not exceed four square feet and shall be mounted on the building.
§ 166-144 Signs in the B, B-10, B-10W, D-S, and WC Zone Districts and signs for retail development in the I-B3 and OB-DS Zone Districts.
[Amended 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017; 10-10-2019 by Ord. No. 38-19; 12-19-2022 by Ord. No. 34-2022; 4-13-2023 by Ord. No. 10-2023]
A.
General regulations.
(1)
Except as may be specifically permitted by this chapter or by other applicable law, no sign shall be permitted which is not an accessory use to the principal use conducted on the same property.
(2)
Principal identification signs. For purposes of these regulations, the term "principal identification sign" refers to any sign that is designed, intended or functions to identify a development, use, product, service, event or activity, when viewed from the street right-of-way or other location not on the same property as the sign.
(3)
Secondary signs. For purposes of these regulations, the term "secondary sign" refers to any sign that is not a principal identification sign.
B.
Signs for retail sales and retail service uses. Signs for retail sales and retail service uses, as defined by this chapter, shall comply with the following requirements:
(1)
Principal identification signs. Principal identification signs, as defined in Subsection A(2) above, for retail sales and retail service uses shall be subject to the following requirements:
(a)
Permitted types. Principal identification signs may be attached to the building or freestanding, subject to the following requirements:
[1]
Attached signs are permitted for all developments.
[2]
A principal identification sign may be freestanding only if both Subsection B(1)(a)[2][a] and [b] are complied with, or if Subsection B(1)(a)[2][a][c] is complied with:
[Amended 10-12-2023 by Ord. No. 31-2023]
[a]
Unless specifically permitted otherwise, the lot or lots containing the development identified by the sign(s) must have at least 200 feet of frontage upon a public street, the freestanding sign(s) must be located in the front yard abutting said street and the sign(s) must be oriented to be viewed primarily by travelers on said street; and
[b]
The sign must be accessory to a development or developments containing at least 25,000 square feet of gross floor area devoted to retail sales and retail service uses.
[c]
The sign is accessory to a gasoline station or permitted drive-in use.
(b)
Content. In order to ensure the readability of signs, to avoid visual clutter and unnecessary distractions, and in order and to promote attractive sign designs, the content of principal identification signs shall be limited to information identifying the name of the business establishment(s) and/or the name of the overall development on the property, as in a shopping center, and/or the logo, trademark or other identifying symbol of said establishment(s) and/or development, and/or the street address of the property. Except as specifically permitted otherwise, sign content including but not limited to telephone numbers, email addresses, products and/or services which are not part of the name or logo of the individual establishment(s) or the overall development shall be prohibited.
(c)
Attached principal identification signs. Attached principal identification signs shall be subject to the following requirements:
[1]
Maximum quantity of attached signs. For each establishment, the quantity of attached signs shall be subject to the following requirements:
[a]
One attached principal identification sign, or two such signs if one of the signs is an official logo of the establishment and the other sign contains other permitted content, shall be permitted on each exterior wall of the establishment that faces a public street upon which the property has frontage. See example, below.
[b]
One attached principal identification sign, or two such signs if one of the signs is an official logo of the establishment and the other sign contains other permitted content, shall be permitted on each exterior wall of the establishment that faces a main driveway. For purposes of administering this provision, a "main driveway" shall be defined as a driveway that provides direct access between a public street and the parking area(s) for patrons of the establishment to which the sign is accessory. A main driveway may be internal to the site and serve the main parking area, but this shall not be construed to mean that every access aisle in a parking area is a main driveway; generally, there is only one main driveway on any side of a building. See example, below.
 |
[c]
In the event that an exterior wall of the establishment faces both a public street and a main driveway, one principal identification sign, or two such signs if one of the signs is an official logo of the establishment, shall be permitted on said wall.
[d]
In the event that no exterior walls of the establishment face a public street or main driveway, or the exterior wall containing the main entrance for patrons of the establishment does not face a public street or main driveway, e.g., an establishment located within an interior area of a shopping mall, one principal identification sign, or two such signs if one of the signs is an official logo of the establishment, shall be permitted, which sign shall be located upon an exterior wall containing the main entrance or main shared entrance, as applicable, for patrons of the establishment.
[e]
For purposes of administering the foregoing provisions, a wall shall be considered to face a public street or main driveway when the wall is oriented towards and prominently visible to travelers upon such street or driveway and when a sign placed upon the wall is easily readable to such travelers. Walls and/or signs which are obscured from the view of streets or driveways by vegetation, buildings or other obstructions or which are located too far from the street or driveway for the signs on the wall to be readable shall not be considered to face such streets or driveways.
[f]
In no case shall a business establishment be permitted more than three attached principal identification signs, i.e., one sign on each of the three walls, or more than six such signs if three of the signs are an official logo of the establishment, i.e., two signs on each of three walls, with one of the two signs on each wall being an official logo of the establishment.
[2]
Attached sign location. Attached principal identification signs shall be located on a wall, canopy, marquee, awning, door or window which is part of that portion of the building used and occupied by the business establishment. If a business establishment that does not have an exterior wall, canopy, marquee, awning, door or window visible from outside the building, and/or shares one or more of such elements in common with other establishments, then the principal identification signs shall be located on or adjacent to such shared elements.
[3]
Maximum horizontal dimension of attached principal signs. The horizontal dimension of attached principal identification signs shall be limited to a proportion of the horizontal dimension of that portion of the wall upon which the sign is located and which encloses the space occupied by the business, or which is shared in common by multiple businesses as set forth in Subsection B(1)(c)[2] above. If the sign is located upon a canopy, marquee, awning, door or window, the horizontal dimension of the wall upon or in which such element is located shall be used to determine the maximum sign dimension. If more than one such sign is located on the wall or element, the maximum horizontal dimension shall apply to the rectangle enclosing all of the signs. The maximum proportion of the sign dimension to the wall dimension shall be as follows:
[a]
On walls having a horizontal dimension of up to 10 feet: eight feet, but not to exceed the horizontal dimension of the wall.
[b]
On walls having a horizontal dimension greater than 10 feet but not greater than 40 feet: eight feet, plus 0.4 foot for each foot of horizontal dimension of the wall greater than 10 feet.
[c]
On walls having a horizontal dimension greater than 40 feet: 50% of the horizontal dimension of the wall, or 50 feet, whichever is less.
[4]
Maximum area of attached principal identification signs. The maximum permitted area of attached principal identification signs shall vary based upon the quantity of such signs and their orientation to public streets and driveways, as follows:
[a]
Signs on walls which face public streets. For up to two walls that face a public street upon which property has frontage, the maximum cumulative area of all principal identification signs for each business establishment shall not exceed 1.25 square feet for each linear foot of horizontal dimension of the exterior wall which encloses the space occupied by the business, or which is shared in common by multiple businesses as set forth in Subsection B(1)(c)[2] above, but not to exceed 400 square feet. See examples, below:
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[i]
For purposes of administering the foregoing provision, a sign shall be considered to face a public street when such sign is oriented towards and prominently visible and readable to travelers upon such street. Signs which are obscured from the view of streets by vegetation, buildings or other obstructions or which are located too far from the street or driveway to be readable shall not be considered to face such streets.
[b]
Other signs. For signs other than the signs regulated by Subsection B(1)(c)[4][a] above, the maximum cumulative area of all principal identification signs for each business establishment shall not exceed 0.75 square feet for each linear foot of horizontal dimension of the exterior wall which encloses the space occupied by the business, or which is shared in common by multiple businesses as set forth in Subsection B(1)(c)[2] above, but in no case greater than 240 square feet. See examples, below:
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[5]
Maximum height of attached signs. Attached principal identification signs shall not exceed the height of the ground floor of the wall upon which the sign is attached. Such signs may be located on a parapet or similar structure that is a vertical extension of the ground floor wall. Attached signs shall not be located on the roof and shall not project beyond the top of the wall or parapet upon which the sign is placed.
[6]
Maximum projection of attached signs. Principal identification signs shall not extend further than 12 inches from the face of the wall, canopy, marquee, awning, window or door upon which they are mounted.
[7]
Design theme for multiuse developments. In the case of buildings or developments used by or designed for use by more than one business establishment, all attached principal signs on the building and in the development shall express a single compatible design theme. The design theme shall be specified by the applicant at the time of the site plan approval for the development or, in the case of existing developments for which site plan approval is not required, by the applicant for a sign permit. The design theme for attached signs shall have at least two of the following elements to be the same or substantially the same, subject to the approval of the reviewing agency:
[a]
Sign type (e.g., box sign, board/panel sign, pin-mounted/channel sign letters, etc.).
[b]
Sign illumination (e.g., internal illumination, external gooseneck fixture illumination, etc.).
[c]
Sign location on the wall, canopy, awning, etc., and height above the finished ground elevation below the sign.
[d]
Vertical sign dimensions.
(d)
Freestanding signs. Freestanding principal identification signs, when permitted, shall be subject to the following requirements:
[1]
Maximum quantity of freestanding signs.
[a]
One freestanding sign shall be permitted for each driveway that provides public access to the property from a public street, up to a maximum of three signs for each street upon which the property has frontage, but in no case more than four signs for the entire lot or tract, and subject to the spacing requirements in Subsection B(1)(d)[6] below. The quantity of signs that are oriented to be viewed from a particular street shall not exceed the number of driveways that provide public access from that street.
[b]
Notwithstanding the foregoing, designed shopping centers in the OB-DS Zone District shall be permitted up to two freestanding signs identifying the center from Route 10, up to two freestanding signs identifying the center from Route 287, and up to two on-site freestanding signs identifying the center from streets other than Routes 10 and 287, all subject to the spacing requirements in Subsection B(1)(d)[6] below.
[2]
Shared freestanding signs.
[a]
Freestanding signs shall be permitted to identify and advertise uses located on more than one lot if both of the following criteria are satisfied:
[i]
The freestanding sign shall be accessory to and located on the same lot as at least one of the uses identified or advertised on the sign.
[ii]
All of the uses identified or advertised on the sign shall be located on the same lot as the sign or on a lot adjacent to the lot containing the sign.
[b]
Such freestanding signs shall be subject to the same regulations as other freestanding principal identification signs permitted by this section. The authorization for such signs shall not be construed to permit a greater number of freestanding signs than would otherwise be permitted. The maximum permitted area of such signs shall be based upon the floor area of all of the uses identified on the sign, provided that this shall not be construed to increase the sign area above the maximum area permitted for freestanding signs by this section.
[3]
Maximum area of freestanding signs. The maximum permitted area of freestanding signs shall vary, based upon the quantity of signs, as follows:
[a]
The area of one freestanding principal identification sign per street, but not more than two such signs for properties with multiple street frontages, shall not exceed 50 square feet, plus 1.5 square feet for each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area greater than 25,000 square feet of the development identified by the sign, or 250 square feet, whichever is less.
[b]
The area of any freestanding principal identification signs other than those regulated in Subsection B(1)(d)[3][a] above shall not exceed 30 square feet, plus 0.9 square feet for each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area greater than 25,000 square feet of the development identified by the sign, or 150 square feet, whichever is less.
[c]
If the freestanding sign(s) identify more than one business establishment, the cumulative area of all of individual sign panels that comprise the freestanding sign(s) shall comply with the maximum areas permitted by Subsection B(1)(d)[3][a] or [3][b] above, as applicable.
[4]
Maximum height of freestanding signs. The maximum permitted height of freestanding signs shall vary, based upon the quantity of signs, as follows:
[a]
The height of one freestanding principal identification sign per street, but not more than two such signs for properties with multiple street frontages, shall not exceed 20 feet; provided, however, in the OB-DS Zone District the height of freestanding signs permitted to be located along Route 287 and along Route 10 for designed shopping centers shall not exceed 30 feet.
[i]
The foregoing height shall be permitted for one sign per street, up to a maximum of two such signs for the development.
[b]
The height of any freestanding principal identification signs other than those regulated in Subsection B(1)(d)[4][a] above shall not exceed 10 feet.
[5]
Minimum setback of freestanding signs from streets. Freestanding principal identification signs shall be located at least 15 feet from any public street right-of-way; provided, however, that in those locations where the subject property has frontage on a street that has a center barrier or other control that limits access to the property by vehicles traveling in only one direction, such signs shall be located no closer to the street right-of-way than a straight line which connects the following two points:
[a]
Fifteen feet from the street right-of-way at the point of intersection of the front lot line and the side lot line that is closest to the direction of travel on the same side of the street as the property upon which the sign is located.
[b]
Thirty feet from the street right-of-way at the point of intersection of the front lot line and the side lot line that is farthest from the direction of travel on the same side of the street as the property upon which the sign is located.
[c]
The minimum setback line for such situations is illustrated below:
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[6]
Minimum distance between freestanding signs. When more than one freestanding principal identification sign is provided on a property and/or tract, such signs shall be separated by a distance of at least 200 feet, measured horizontally between the closest points of the signs. In addition, when more than two freestanding principal identification signs which are accessory to the uses on a property and/or tract are oriented to be viewed from a particular street, as permitted by Subsection B(1)(d)[1][a], at least two of the signs shall be separated by a distance of at least 500 feet.
(2)
Secondary signs. Secondary signs, as defined in Subsection A(3) above, for retail sales and retail service uses shall be subject to the following requirements:
(a)
Accessory use signs for larger establishments. In addition to the attached principal identification signs permitted by Subsection B(1) above, individual retail sales and retail service establishments containing a gross floor area of at least 25,000 square feet shall be permitted attached signs for secondary uses to the principal use. Such signs shall be limited to signs identifying uses which are an accessory component of the primary retail business, such as but not limited to a pharmacy, garden center or eating establishment accessory to a supermarket or "big box" retail establishment, or other use similarly accessory to the primary retail business, and shall be subject to the following requirements:
[1]
One secondary sign for each accessory use to the establishment shall be permitted on each building wall of the business that faces a public street, main driveway as defined by Subsection B(1)(c) above, or parking area for patrons of the establishment, provided that there shall be no more than a total of three such signs for all accessory uses on any wall for the establishment nor more than a total of four secondary signs for all walls of the establishment.
[2]
The area of each such secondary sign shall not exceed 2% of the area of the ground floor wall of the business establishment upon which it is placed, or 100 square feet, whichever is less.
(b)
Window signs. Window signs shall be permitted, subject to the following regulations:
[1]
The total area of all window signs shall not exceed 25% of the main front window area, or one square foot for each linear foot of building frontage occupied by the establishment using the sign, whichever is less. The maximum area permitted for window signs shall be calculated separately from the area for other permitted signs.
[2]
Window signs shall be located only in the main front window.
[3]
Window signs shall not be illuminated.
(c)
Directory signs, loading bay signs. Directory signs and loading bay signs for developments containing multiple business establishments shall be permitted, subject to the requirements for such signs in § 166-147.
(d)
Other signs permitted by § 166-141 shall be subject to the regulations in § 166-141.
(3)
Drive-through signs. When drive-through uses are permitted, secondary signs for the convenience of drive-through patrons shall be permitted, subject to the following requirements:
(a)
Maximum quantity of drive-through signs. The quantity of permitted drive-through signs shall be only as determined to be necessary for the operation of the drive-through use, as regulated below.
(b)
Type. Drive-through signs may be attached to the building or may be freestanding.
(c)
Location and orientation. Drive-through signs shall be located adjacent to the drive-through lane(s) and oriented to be viewed primarily by drive-through patrons. Such signs shall not oriented or be used to advertise goods or services to non-drive-through patrons or the general public.
(d)
Preview signs. Preview signs are signs that highlight or summarize the goods or services identified in more detail on the menu board sign, and are regulated as follows:
[1]
Up to one preview sign for each drive-through lane shall be permitted.
[2]
The area of preview signs shall not exceed 20 square feet.
[3]
The height of preview signs shall not exceed six feet.
(e)
Menu board signs. Menu board signs are signs that detail the products and services that may be ordered from the drive-through lane(s), and are regulated as follows:
[1]
Up to one menu board sign for each drive-through lane shall be permitted.
[2]
The area of menu board signs shall not exceed 30 square feet.
[3]
The height of menu board signs shall not exceed six feet.
(f)
Order station signs. Order station signs are signs used for the placement of orders from a drive-through lane, and typically involve a visual display of the order being taken, and may include a microphone and/or speaker for communication between the patron and the establishment. Order station signs are regulated as follows:
[1]
Up to one order station sign for each drive-through lane shall be permitted.
[2]
The area of order station signs shall not exceed 10 square feet.
[3]
The height of order station signs shall not exceed six feet.
(g)
Drive-through directional signs. Drive-through directional signs are signs used to guide or instruct patrons of the drive-through operation, and include signs directing patrons to the drive-through lanes and order locations, vehicle clearance heights, and other similar functions. Such signs shall be subject to the regulations in § 166-141E.
C.
Signs for nonresidential uses other than retail sales and retail service uses. Signs for nonresidential uses other than retail sales and retail service uses shall be as permitted for such uses in § 166-147 and shall be subject to the regulations for such signs in § 166-147, except as provided otherwise below:
(1)
A principal identification sign for such uses may be freestanding only if all of the following conditions are complied with:
(a)
The lot must have at least 200 feet of frontage upon a public street, and the freestanding sign must be oriented to be viewed primarily by travelers on said street; and
(b)
The sign must be accessory to a development on the property containing at least 25,000 square feet of gross floor area.
(2)
Freestanding principal identification signs for such uses shall be subject to the same setback requirements that apply to freestanding principal identification signs for retail sales and retail service establishments in this section.
D.
Signs for developments containing a mixture of retail sales and retail service uses and other uses. In the case of developments that contain both retail uses and other nonresidential uses, the signs for the retail uses shall be subject to the requirements of Subsection B of this section, and the signs for the other nonresidential uses shall be subject to the requirements of Subsection C of this section. In the event that the requirements of Subsection B and Subsection C conflict with each other when applied to such developments, the more restrictive requirement shall apply.
§ 166-145 Signs in the D-S Zone District.
[Amended 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017; 10-10-2019 by Ord. No. 38-19]
Signs in the D-S Zone District shall be subject to the provisions of § 166-144.
§ 166-145.1 Signs in I-B3 Zone District.
[Added 8-12-2010 by Ord. No. 22-10; amended 8-14-2014 by Ord. No. 36-14; 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017; 10-10-2019 by Ord. No. 38-19]
A.
Signs for retail sales, banks, personal services, rental and leasing establishments, eating and drinking establishments shall be subject to the provisions of § 166-144.
B.
Signs for uses other than permitted retail sales, banks, personal services, rental and leasing establishments, eating and drinking establishments shall comply with the regulations for signs in the office and industrial zone districts pursuant to § 166-147A through E.
C.
All other applicable sign requirements of Article XX shall be complied with unless specifically superseded by the requirements of this section.
§ 166-146 Sign regulations for gasoline stations.
[Amended 5-12-2016 by Ord. No. 15-16; 4-13-2023 by Ord. No. 10-2023]
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, gasoline stations, where permitted, may display only the following signs, which are deemed customary and necessary to their respective business:
A.
One freestanding sign advertising the name of the station, and/or the brand name, and/or the logo of the gasoline sold. Such sign shall be subject to the following requirements:
(1)
The area of the sign shall not exceed 40 square feet.
(2)
The height of the sign shall not exceed 20 feet.
(3)
The sign shall not reduce or interfere with the appropriate sight lines at the intersections of roadways, driveways and other vehicular travel areas, as determined by the Township Engineer based upon the particular conditions of the site and adjacent roadways.
(4)
The sign shall be set back from the front lot line in the same manner as required for other freestanding signs in the zone district.
B.
One sign mounted on the wall of the station building, or on a canopy over the fuel pumps, identifying the name of the station and/or the brand name and/or the logo of the gasoline sold. Such sign shall be subject to the same regulations as building-mounted signs for retail business establishments in the same zone district as the gasoline station. Notwithstanding the foregoing, gasoline stations located upon property that has frontage upon more than one street may have one building or canopy sign for each street, provided that not more than one sign shall be permitted to be oriented to each street.
C.
Miscellaneous ancillary informational signs, including but not limited to signs located on gasoline pumps, lead warning signs, emergency shut-off signs, no smoking signs, and any other sign required by law, all as determined to be reasonably necessary by the Board. The intent in permitting such signs shall be to provide information to employees and patrons, and not to advertise the gas station to passing roadway traffic.
D.
Commercially manufactured signs advertising the price of fuel only shall be permitted to be attached to the permitted freestanding sign as regulated in Subsection A as stated above; provided, however, that said price signs meet the following required conditions:
(1)
The total area of such signs shall not exceed 60 square feet in area.
(2)
All requirements applicable to freestanding signs in Subsection A above shall be complied with.
E.
In the event that a gasoline station is located on the same property or is part of the same development as other uses, the sign regulations shall be as follows:
(1)
If the signs for the gasoline station are separate and distinct from the signs for the other use(s), the regulations of this section shall apply only to the gasoline station signs, and the sign regulations otherwise applicable to the other use(s) shall apply to such other use(s); provided, however, that in the case of signs for other uses permitted to be located on the freestanding sign for the gasoline station by § 166-144B(1)(a)[2][b], the following shall apply:
(a)
One sign for each of the other uses shall be permitted on the freestanding sign.
(b)
The maximum cumulative area of all such signs for the other uses shall be 30 square feet.
(c)
The same maximum height and minimum setback requirements applicable to the freestanding gasoline station sign shall also apply to the signs for other uses attached to the gasoline station sign.
(2)
If the signs for the gasoline station and the other use(s) are shared and not separate or distinct, as in the case of a gasoline station and convenience store operating under the same brand name, the regulations of this section shall apply to all of the shared signs.
§ 166-147 O-S, OB-RL, OB-DS, I, I-2, I-B2, I-P, IP-2, I-4, I-5, and I-7 Zone Districts.
[Amended 12-22-1993 by Ord. No. 36-93; 6-8-1995 by Ord. No. 16-95; 10-26-2000 by Ord. No. 14-2000; 12-13-2012 by Ord. No. 23-12; 8-14-2014 by Ord. No. 36-14; 12-14-2017 by Ord. No. 26-2017; 9-13-2018 by Ord. No. 20-2018; 6-13-2019 by Ord. No. 24-19; 10-10-2019 by Ord. No. 38-19; 3-14-2024 by Ord. No. 4-2024]
A.
Except as specifically permitted in this chapter, no sign shall be permitted which is not accessory to the use conducted on the property.
B.
Principal identification signs. Principal identification signs are signs identifying the name of the business establishment or development on the property, and/or the nature, logo, trademark, or other identifying symbol of said establishment or development, and/or the street address of the property, as permitted and regulated herein. Such signs shall be required to obtain site plan approval or, in the circumstances described in § 166-58D and E, site plan exemption, and shall be subject to the following requirements:
(1)
Maximum quantity.
(a)
Properties with less than 100,000 square feet of gross floor area: One building-mounted principal sign shall be permitted for each business establishment in a building. In addition, one freestanding sign shall be permitted for each lot if the requirement of Subsection B(2) below is complied with.
(b)
Properties with at least 100,000 square feet of gross floor area:
[1]
Two wall signs for each wall facing a public street, on up to two walls (maximum four total wall signs), plus one wall sign indicating the street address of the property, shall be permitted.
[2]
One freestanding sign for each driveway providing access to a public street, but not more than two freestanding signs, shall be permitted. Such signs are not required to be located at the driveway entrance.
(2)
Permitted types. Principal identification signs may be attached to the wall, permanent canopy, or marquee constructed as an integral part of the building. A principal identification sign may be freestanding only if the subject property has at least 100 feet of frontage on a public street. Freestanding principal signs shall obtain site plan approval or site plan exemption in accordance with the procedures in Article IX of this chapter.
(3)
Content. The content of principal signs shall be limited to information identifying the name of the overall development, the individual business establishment(s) on the property, and/or the nature, logo, trademark, or other identifying symbol of said development or establishment(s), and/or the street address(es) of the property.
(4)
Maximum area.
(a)
The area of principal identification signs mounted on the building wall shall not exceed 5% of the area of the exterior wall upon which they are mounted or 75 square feet, whichever is less. For purposes of administering this requirement, the area of the wall shall be limited to that which encloses the space occupied by the business and shall include all portions of the building elevation located between the ground and the roof soffit or top of the parapet, as applicable, including doors, windows and any projecting or recessed elements.
(b)
The area of freestanding principal identification signs shall not exceed 100 square feet.
(5)
Maximum height.
(a)
The height of principal identification signs mounted on the building wall, canopy or marquee shall not exceed the height of the wall, canopy or marquee upon which the sign is mounted.
(b)
The height of freestanding principal identification signs shall not exceed 12 feet.
(6)
Maximum dimensions.
(a)
For building-mounted principal identification signs, the vertical dimension shall not exceed three feet. The horizontal dimension shall not exceed 50% of the horizontal dimension of the building wall upon which the sign is mounted or 25 feet, whichever is less. For purposes of administering this requirement, the building wall shall be limited to that portion of the wall which encloses the space occupied by the business, and the horizontal dimension of the wall shall include all portions of the building elevation, including projecting or recessed elements.
(b)
For freestanding principal identification signs, the vertical dimension shall not exceed 12 feet.
(7)
Minimum setback. Freestanding principal identification signs shall be located at least 10 feet from any front lot line. Such signs shall not obstruct sight lines needed for reasonable safety for vehicles or pedestrians at intersections of streets, driveways and walkways.
(8)
Maximum projection. Building-mounted principal identification signs shall be mounted parallel to the face of the wall, canopy or marquee to which they are attached, and shall not extend further than 12 inches from the face of such wall, canopy or marquee.
C.
Directory signs. Directory signs are signs listing the businesses within a building or group of buildings. Directory signs are permitted only when a building or buildings are occupied by multiple business establishments, in addition to the permitted principal identification sign for the property, and are subject to the following requirements:
(1)
Maximum quantity. One directory sign shall be permitted; provided, however, that the reviewing agency may permit additional signs without the need for a variance if the applicant demonstrates that additional signs are necessary to provide adequate identification of site businesses.
(2)
Permitted type. Directory signs may be attached to the wall of the building or may be freestanding.
(3)
Maximum area. The area of directory signs shall not exceed 30 square feet.
(4)
Maximum height. The height of directory signs shall not exceed eight feet.
(5)
Maximum dimensions. The vertical dimension of individual tenant signs on the directory sign shall not exceed six inches. The horizontal dimension of individual tenant signs on the directory sign shall not exceed four feet. The overall dimensions of the directory sign shall be as approved by the reviewing agency, taking into account the number and arrangement of tenant signs.
(6)
Minimum setback from front lot line. The minimum setback of directory signs from the front lot line or any road widening easement along the front line shall be 40 feet.
(7)
Maximum projection. Building-mounted directory signs shall be mounted parallel to the face of the wall, canopy or marquee to which they are attached, and shall not extend further than 12 inches from the face of such wall, canopy or marquee.
D.
Tenant entrance signs on multiple business sites. When multiple buildings are developed on a site or when a building is occupied by multiple businesses, signs identifying the building entrances for each business shall be permitted in addition to the permitted principal identification signs for the property and businesses, subject to the following requirements:
(1)
Maximum quantity. One sign shall be permitted for each entrance.
(2)
Permitted type and location. Such signs shall be mounted on the building wall, in close proximity to the entrance, or on a canopy above the entrance.
(3)
Maximum area. The area of such signs shall not exceed 10 square feet.
(4)
Maximum dimensions. The vertical dimension shall not exceed two feet. The horizontal dimension shall not exceed eight feet.
(5)
Design. The design of such signs shall be as approved by the reviewing agency, considering the design of the building and the location of the signs.
E.
Loading bay signs on multiple business sites. When multiple buildings are developed on a site or when a building is occupied by multiple businesses, signs identifying the loading bays for each business shall be permitted in addition to the permitted principal identification sign for the property, subject to the following requirements:
(1)
Maximum quantity. One sign shall be permitted for each loading bay.
(2)
Permitted type and location. Such signs shall be mounted on the building wall, in close proximity to the loading bay, or on a canopy above the loading bay.
(3)
Maximum area. The area of each sign shall not exceed six square feet.
(4)
Sign dimensions. The dimensions of each sign shall be as approved by the reviewing agency, taking into account the nature, location and design of the signs.
(5)
Design. The design of such signs shall be as approved by the reviewing agency, taking into account the design of the building and the location of the signs.
F.
Designed shopping centers in the OB-DS Zone District shall comply with the sign regulations in § 166-144.
G.
In the I-B2 and O-S Zone District, signs for retail sales and retail service uses shall be subject to the requirements of § 166-144.
§ 166-148 (Reserved) [1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former § 166-148, Signs in the PUD Zone District, was repealed 12-22-1993 by Ord. No. 36-93.
