Jenkintown City Zoning Code
ARTICLE XXI
Signs
§ 181-131 Applicability of regulations.
The following regulations apply to all signs erected or altered after the effective date of this article.
§ 181-132 Purposes; objectives.
It is the intent of this article to regulate all signs within the Borough of Jenkintown to ensure that they are appropriate for their respective uses and in keeping with the appearance of the affected property and surrounding environment and to protect the public health, safety, morals and general welfare. Illustrations, which present typical examples of signs, are provided for in this section to document the intent of the ordinance. In addition, the intent of this section is to:
A.
Encourage good sign design in the context of the overall image and visual environment of the Borough.
B.
Enhance the appearance of the business community, taking into account the nature of the use, and thus stimulate as well as protect the economic vitality of the Borough.
C.
Encourage signs which are well designed and pleasing in appearance and to provide incentive and latitude for variety in order to enhance the economic value as well as the visual character of the residential and business community.
D.
Control the size, location and illumination of signs in the Borough in order to reduce hazards to pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
E.
Avoid excessive competition for large or multiple signs, so that permitted signs provide adequate identification and direction while minimizing clutter, unsightliness and confusion.
F.
Establish criteria designed to encourage signs which are compatible with their surroundings, appropriate to the type of activity to which they pertain, expressive of the identity of individual proprietors, and legible in the environment in which they are seen.
G.
Prevent sign overload and excessively large signs, which create a visually chaotic and competitive situation within the business community.
H.
Provide for the removal of signs which constitute a hazardous or blighting influence.
§ 181-133 Conformance required.
Any sign hereafter erected or maintained shall conform to the provisions of the article and any other ordinance or regulations of the Borough of Jenkintown relating thereto.
§ 181-134 Definitions.
As used in this article, the following terms have the meanings indicated, unless otherwise expressly stated:
SIGN
A name, identification, description, emblem, display, device or structure which is affixed to or printed on or represented directly or indirectly upon a building, structure or parcel of land; which is illuminated or nonilluminated; which is visible or intended to be visible from any public place; and which directs attention to a person, place, product, institution, business, organization, activity or service. Signs shall also include any permanently installed or situated merchandise, including any banner, pennant, placard or temporary sign, with the exception of the flags of the United States of America, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the County of Montgomery and the Borough of Jenkintown.
SIGN TYPES AND ILLUMINATION
A.
(Reserved)[1]
B.
ANIMATED SIGN
A sign with action or motion, flashing or color changes requiring electrical energy, but not including window-displayed computer monitors or wind-actuated elements such as flags, banners, or novelty items, e.g., reader board.C.
AWNING SIGN
A sign painted on, printed on, or attached flat against, the surface of an awning. |
D.
BEACON LIGHTING
Any source of electric light, whether portable or fixed, the primary purpose of which is to cast a concentrated beam of light generally skyward as a means of attracting attention to its location rather than illuminate any particular sign, structure or other object.E.
(Reserved)[2]
F.
BOX SIGN
Aluminum or steel fabricated frame and body with or without internal illumination designed to display acrylic, aluminum or three-dimensional plastic sign faces. See also "cabinet sign."G.
BUSINESS SIGN
An on-premises sign that advertises or otherwise directs attention to a business, commodity, service, industry or other activity which is sold, offered or conducted, other than incidentally, on the premises upon which the sign is located or to which it is affixed.H.
CABINET SIGN
A sign structure consisting of the frame and face(s), not including internal components, embellishments or support structure. See also "box sign."I.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
A sign conveying instructions regarding pedestrian and/or vehicular movement with respect to the premises on which it is located, such as the entrance and exit of a parking area.J.
DIRECTORY SIGN
A sign on which the names and location of the occupants or the use of a building is given, including office building and religious directories.K.
ELECTRONIC GRAPHIC DISPLAY
A sign or portion of a sign that displays electronic, static images, static graphics or static pictures, with or without text information, defined by a small number of matrix elements using different combinations of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, light bulbs or other illumination devices within the display area where the message change sequence is accomplished immediately or by means of fade. Electronic graphic displays shall include computer-programmable, microprocessor-controlled electronic or digital displays.(1)
Signs shall only be located on nonresidential parcels located in the Town Center, Neighborhood Commercial Residential, and Gateway Commercial Districts.
(2)
Electronic graphic displays are permitted as part of the allowable type and size of signage in the applicable areas. The calculation of such signage must be incorporated as part of the overall sign calculation, not in addition to it.
(3)
Message duration. Any portion of the message must have a minimum duration (hold time) of 25 seconds and must be a static display. Messages may change immediately or fade in and out only and shall completely change to the next message within one second. No portion of the message may flash, scroll, twirl, twinkle, oscillate, rotate, blink, change color, or in any manner imitate movement.
(4)
Brightness (or illumination). Lighting from the sign must not exceed an intensity of 1/2 footcandle of light at the property line, as measured with a portable hand-held light sensor.
L.
FESTOON LIGHTING
An external means of illumination comprised of a group of strung bulbs.M.
FREESTANDING SIGN
A self-supporting sign resting on or supported by means of poles, posts or standards. |
N.
IDENTIFICATION SIGN
A sign whose copy is limited to the name of a building, institution or person and/or to the activity or occupation being identified.O.
ILLUMINATED SIGN
Any sign that is lighted by internal or external lighting.(1)
BACKLIT SIGN
A sign consisting of a cabinet containing a light source surrounded by one or more translucent faces, which may be illuminated for visibility.(2)
CHANNEL LETTER
The most prevalent type of sign in use. These are fabricated letters/graphics with an internal illumination source such as neon tubing or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or cold cathode tubing. They are used primarily in building or storefront signs. Reverse channel letters, where the surrounding area is indirectly illuminated (halo effect) are included in this definition. |
(3)
GOOSE-NECK LIGHTING
Recognized by the curved support for a light fixture normally constructed out of steel conduit. It is typically used on storefront signs as a traditional solution. |
(4)
HALO LIGHTING
Typically used for backlit letters to create a glow of light around the letter by illuminating the wall surface from within the letter form. |
P.
INCIDENTAL SIGN
A sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary to the use of the lot on which it is located, such as "no parking," "entrance," "loading only," "telephone" and other similar directives. No sign with a commercial message legible from a position off the lot on which the sign is located or a sign which exceeds three square feet shall be considered incidental. In all instances, an incidental sign must be located on the same lot as the primary use for which information is being provided. No permit is required, and such signs shall be permitted in addition to the total allowable square footage permitted on a lot.Q.
MARQUEE SIGN
Any sign attached to a marquee for the purposes of identifying a theater or movie house.R.
MONUMENT SIGN
A sign attached to a brick, stone or masonry wall or structure that forms a supporting base for the sign display.S.
MURAL
Artwork (can be paint or tiles) applied to the wall of a building, which covers all or most of the wall and depicts a scene, theme or event of natural, social, cultural or historic significance.T.
NONILLUMINATED SIGN
Any sign that is not lighted.U.
NONCONFORMING SIGN
A sign which has a valid permit, was erected prior to the effective date of this chapter or any subsequent amendment hereto and which does not otherwise conform to the provisions of this article.V.
[3]OFF-SITE OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGN — A freestanding sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service or entertainment facility that is not located, conducted, sold or offered upon the premises where such sign is located or which calls attention to a candidate, cause, public issue or any other kind of paid or unpaid commercial or noncommercial message.
[Added 11-28-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-6]
W.
ON-PREMISES SIGN
A sign that advertises or otherwise directs attention to an activity on the same lot where the sign is located.X.
PARALLEL WALL SIGN
A sign mounted parallel to a wall or other vertical building surface that does not extend beyond the edge of any wall, roofline, or other surface to which it is mounted. A parallel wall sign shall not project more than 12 inches from the surface to which it is mounted. |
Y.
PERSONAL EXPRESSION SIGN
A sign which displays an individual's political, religious or personal belief.Z.
PORTABLE SIGN
Any sign, including vehicular signs, not permanently attached to the ground or building.AA.
PROJECTING WALL SIGN
Any sign mounted to a wall or other vertical surface other than a parallel sign, that does not project more than four feet from the surface to which it is mounted, nor project above the wall, roofline or surface to which it is mounted, nor in any way interfere with normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic. The lowest part of any projecting sign or of any support thereof which extends over any street, sidewalk, alley or other public way in the Borough shall be at least 10 feet above the level of the walk or public way over which it extends, and the highest part shall not exceed a maximum height of 14 feet from ground level to top of the sign, provided that, in no instance shall the top of the sign or its supporting framework exceed the level of the roofline of the building to which it is attached. |
BB.
REVOLVING SIGN
Any sign that revolves.CC.
ROOF SIGN
A sign erected upon or above a roof or parapet wall of a building, and which is wholly or partly supported by that building.DD.
SNIPE SIGN
A permanent or temporary sign or poster affixed to a tree, fence, utility pole or upon rocks or natural features.EE.
TEMPORARY SIGN
A sign which advertises community or civic projects, construction projects, real estate for sale or lease, a commercial grand opening, or other special events on a temporary basis. The following types of signs shall be considered temporary signs:(1)
BANNER SIGN
A temporary sign intended to be hung, either with or without frames, possessing characters, letters, illustrations or ornamentations applied to paper, plastic or fabric of any kind. National flags, flags of political subdivisions, and symbolic or decorative flags of any institution, neighborhood, residential use or business shall not be considered banners for the purpose of this chapter.(2)
ARTISAN SIGN
Any sign giving the name or names of principal contractors, subcontractors, architects and lending institutions responsible for construction, landscaping or other improvements on the site where the sign is placed.(3)
DEVELOPMENT SIGN
An on-premises sign on a building or lot which announces the nature, purpose or name of the prospective building/enterprise.(4)
NONRESIDENTIAL BUSINESS SIGN
An on-premises sign that advertises or otherwise directs attention to a business, commodity, service, industry or other activity which is sold, offered or conducted, other than incidentally, on the premises upon which the sign is located or to which it is affixed.(5)
POLITICAL SIGN
A temporary sign used in connection with a local, county, state or national election or referendum.(6)
PORTABLE SIGN
Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure, or a sign designed to be transported, including, but not limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels; signs converted to A- or T-frames; menu and sandwich board signs; balloons used as signs; umbrellas used for advertising; and signs attached to or painted on vehicles parked and visible from the public right-of-way, unless said vehicle is used in the normal day-to-day operations of the business. Portable signs shall not be illuminated unless a conditional use is granted by the Borough Council. |
(7)
REAL ESTATE SIGN
A temporary sign which advertises the sale, lease or rent of the property on which the sign is placed.(8)
SPECIAL EVENT SIGN
On-premises window sign, banner or commemorative flag which advertises a grand opening or other special event.(9)
STREET BANNER SIGN
Any banner sign which is stretched across and hung over a public right-of-way.(10)
SUBDIVISION SIGN
An on-premises or off-premises directional sign advertising to the public the name of the subdivision project and the type of project to be built.FF.
TIME AND TEMPERATURE SIGN
A display containing illuminated numerals flashing alternatively to show the time and temperature.GG.
TRAILER SIGN
Any sign which is erected upon a structure having wheels or rollers facilitating movement from one location to another.HH.
VEHICULAR SIGN
Any vehicle and/or trailer to which a sign is affixed in such a manner that the carrying of the sign is no longer incidental to the vehicle's purpose but becomes the primary purpose of the vehicle.II.
WINDOW SIGN
A sign mounted or painted on a window or inside a structure, such that it is intended to be seen through a window from the outside. |
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Subsection A, advertising sign, was repealed 11-28-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-6.
[2]
Editor's Note: Former Subsection E, billboard, was repealed 11-28-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-6.
[3]
Editor's Note: Editor’s Note: Former Subsection V, off-premises sign, was repealed 11-28-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-6.
§ 181-135 General regulations.
A.
Sign area.
(1)
The area of a sign shall mean the area of all lettering, wording and accompanying designs, logos and symbols, together with the background on which they are displayed, whether open or enclosed. The area of a sign shall not include any supporting framework, bracing or trim which is incidental to the display, provided that it does not contain any lettering, wording or symbols.
 |
(2)
Where the sign consists of individual letters, designs or symbols attached to a building, awning, wall or window, the area shall be that of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters, designs and symbols.
(3)
Signs may be multisided. In determining the area of a double-sided sign, only one side shall be considered, provided that both faces are identical in size. When the interior angle formed by the faces of a multisided sign is greater than 45°, then all sides of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area.
B.
Height of a sign. The distance from the highest portion of the sign to the mean grade at the base of the sign. In the case of a sign located on an isolated mound, height shall be measured to the original grade.
 |
C.
Sign structure. Sign structures shall be in keeping with the architectural style of the building that it is related to. A sign structure is defined as the supporting structure erected and used to support a sign, such as brackets, posts, monument bases, etc.
D.
Location of signs.
(1)
No sign shall be placed in such a position as to endanger traffic on a street by obscuring view or by interfering with official street signs or signals, by virtue of position or color.
(2)
No sign shall be erected or maintained as to prevent free ingress or egress to or from any door, window or fire escape.
(3)
No projecting sign shall extend into the cartway of the right-of-way or be less than 10 feet above a pedestrianway.
(4)
No wall sign affixed parallel to a building facade shall project more than 12 inches beyond the build-to line, and the lower ledge of any parallel sign shall not be less than seven feet above the finished grade.
(5)
No freestanding sign may occupy an area designated for parking, loading, walkways, driveways, fire lane, easement, cartway of the right-of-way or other areas required to be unobstructed.
(6)
Only directional or other instructional signs shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape and shall only be permitted with approval of the Fire Marshal.
(7)
Signs, not including historical markers and banners approved by the Borough, shall not be affixed to a utility pole or structure, lighting standard, parking meter, park bench, tree, shrub, rock or natural object except plaques of a maximum of one square foot.
E.
Materials. Sign materials should be consistent with and complement the original construction materials and architectural style of the building facade on which they are to be displayed. All signs, excluding awning and window signs, shall be constructed only of wood, metal, stone or other appropriate material with painted, engraved or raised messages. Plastic sign inserts shall be permitted for internally lit signs.
F.
Illumination of signs. Signs may be illuminated, unless otherwise specified herein, consistent with the following standards:
(1)
No sign shall have flashing, intermittent, animated, revolving, rotating, horizontal and/or vertical movement and/or other illumination, and such signs are specifically prohibited.
(2)
Where permitted, illumination may be:
(a)
External. Illumination of a sign with an external light, shielded so that the point source of light is not visible elsewhere than on the lot where said illumination occurs, e.g., gooseneck lighting.
(b)
Internal. Sign lettering may be halo-lit illumination or reverse channel letters with halo illumination.
(c)
Illumination of signs from the rear or signs designed to be illuminated from the rear (backlit) are prohibited. Signs may be illuminated from the front but only to the extent provided in this chapter.
(3)
The intensity of the light provided for illumination shall be the minimal amount necessary to reasonably observe the sign after dusk at a maximum distance of 500 feet from the sign. Where illumination interferes with the perception of nighttime at surrounding residential properties, the intensity shall be reduced. Such permitted signs shall be illuminated by white light only.
(4)
Neon lighting is not permitted in residential districts.
(5)
Marquee signs are permitted to be externally or internally illuminated.
(6)
Festoon lighting is permitted during holidays. Such lighting shall be removed within two weeks of the holiday.
G.
Construction and maintenance of signs.
(1)
Every sign shall be constructed of durable materials, using noncorrosive fastenings, structurally safe and erected or installed in strict accordance with the Building Code and shall be maintained in a safe condition and good repair at all times. Exposed surfaces shall be cleaned and painted, if paint is required. Defective parts shall be replaced. The Code Enforcement Officer of the Borough and/or his or her designee shall have the right to order the repair or removal of any sign which is or becomes so dangerous, defective, damaged or substantially deteriorated as to become in violation of the requirements of the current Building Code as adopted by the Borough and shall be subject to all procedures, standards and sanctions applicable to signs as contained in said Code.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 74, Building Construction.
(2)
A sign using electricity shall be installed in conformance with the Borough's Electrical Code. All signs not attached to a building shall be connected by underground service only.
H.
Removal of signs. A sign shall be found to be in violation of this chapter and may be required to be removed by the Zoning Officer under the following circumstances:
(1)
The sign has not been maintained in good condition and safe repair and has deteriorated to the point that it cannot perform its intended use or creates a safety hazard. The Zoning Officer shall specify a period of time in which the owner of the sign may repair or rehabilitate the sign, thereby restoring its intended use or correcting the safety hazard.
(2)
The sign has been erected without an applicable permit or does not comply with the other requirements of this chapter.
§ 181-136 Prohibited signs and illumination.
Prohibited signs. It shall be unlawful, upon or after the effective date of this chapter or any amendment thereto, for any person, firm or corporation to erect any of the following signs within the Borough of Jenkintown:
A.
Abandoned signs and awnings, which shall be removed within 60 days from the effective date hereof. In the event that any such abandoned sign or awning is not removed within 60 days after the effective date hereof, such sign or awning may be removed by or at the direction of the Zoning Officer, and the expense of such removal shall be reimbursed to the Borough by the property owner, failing which the Borough may collect the cost of said removal by suit or may file a municipal lien against the property in the amount of such costs, or both, provided that said amount, together with applicable interest, court and collection costs, including counsel fees, if any, may only be collected once.
B.
Searchlights, in connection with operation of business.
C.
Any sign which by color, shape or location conflicts with or resembles a traffic signal device or government sign.
D.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner or authorized agent.
E.
Signs that create a hazard by obstructing the clear view of vehicles and pedestrian traffic.
F.
Any sign which flashes, moves or emits smoke, steam, other visible particulates or odor.
G.
Spinners, pennants, streamers and any moving object used for commercial advertising purposes, whether or not any of the aforesaid items contain a message; except that banners and flags are permitted when authorized under any other pertinent provision of this article.
H.
Flashing, electronically changing messages; blinking, twinkling, animated or moving signs of any type, except those portions of sign which indicate time and temperature changes or those signs that satisfy the requirements of the definition of "electronic graphic display" in § 181-134. This shall not prohibit holiday or decorative lighting or displays.
I.
Any sign that obstructs free ingress or egress from a door, window, fire escape or other exitway.
J.
Any sign painted on to the actual masonry of a building/structure, except for a mural as defined in this article.
K.
Vehicular signs in residential areas.
L.
Signs that exhibit statements, words or pictures of obscene or pornographic subjects as determined by the Borough.
M.
Revolving signs, except barbershop poles.
N.
Signs containing beacon lights.
O.
Roof signs.
P.
Projecting V-shaped signs.
Q.
Snipe signs.
R.
Awnings that are backlit.
S.
Any sign inconsistent with this article.
§ 181-137 Signs exempt from permits.
The following shall not require sign permits:
A.
Street signs: official highway signs, street name, directional or other traffic signs in accordance with the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code.
B.
Government flags, insignia or decorative banners.
C.
Legal notices of a governmental agency.
D.
Directional signs, provided they do not contain advertising, (including logos), do not exceed four square feet, and do not obstruct the sight triangles at internal intersections on the premises.
E.
Public monument, plaque or historic identification marker erected by a government agency.
F.
Barber pole: revolving barbershop pole sign, provided that it does not exceed 36 inches in height and is erected only in conjunction with a barbershop.
G.
All buildings in all zoning districts shall be required to display the address of the property in such a fashion as is clearly visible from the street and which is in accord with the provisions of this article. The area of an address sign shall be exempt from the computation of the total permitted sign area, provided the sign does not contain any advertising, trade names or logos.
H.
Professional accessory use or nameplate signs, provided that signs shall not be illuminated and shall not exceed two square feet in sign area. Not more than one sign shall be erected for each permitted use.
I.
Home security signs, not exceeding one square foot.
J.
Public service and information signs advertising the availability of public rest rooms, telephones or similar public conveniences, not exceeding three square feet in area.
K.
Menus and signs indicating business hours, provided signs shall not exceed two square feet and that signs shall be located in a permanently mounted display box on the facade of the building adjacent to the entrance, displayed within a window adjacent to the entrance, or at a podium that will be placed inside the restaurant upon closing.
L.
Personal expression signs, provided that they are not illuminated and are either freestanding, wall or window signs. Such signs may not exceed four square feet and, in the case of freestanding signs, four feet in height.
M.
"No trespassing" signs and signs indicating private ownership of roadways or other property. On the same premises therewith, provided that the total sign area shall not exceed one square feet and shall not be spaced at intervals of not less than 100 feet of street frontage.
N.
"No parking" signs and signs indicating private parking areas in residential districts. On the same premises therewith, provided that the total sign area shall not exceed 1 1/2 feet square feet and shall not exceed one sign per property.
O.
The following temporary signs:
(1)
Civic event signs and banners on public and private property, which shall be removed within 72 hours after the event and which shall not be erected more than 30 calendar days prior to the event.
(2)
Artisan signs, provided that such signs shall not exceed six square feet and are erected on the premises where the work is being performed. Signs shall be removed upon the completion of work.
(3)
Signs advertising garage or yard sales, provided that no sign shall exceed six square feet in sign area. Signs shall be permitted only on the premises where the sale is to be conducted and limited to one per street frontage. Signs shall be removed at the close of the garage or yard sale.
(4)
Signs advertising the sale, rental or other conveyance of the entire premises or a portion of the premises on which they are erected shall be permitted in all zoning districts while a property is actually for sale or rent. All such signs shall be unlighted and shall be removed within five days after the property is no longer available for sale or rent and/or the termination of the listing agreement with the realtor, broker or other agent of the property owner. In the Residential District, no sign shall exceed eight square feet in total area. Such signs shall not be affixed to any structure upon the property except upon specific approval of the Code Enforcement Officer of the Borough.
(a)
In all other districts, no sign shall exceed 16 square feet.
(b)
Open house signs shall be allowed for one-day prior to the scheduled event and shall be removed at the end of the day of the open house. No more than one open house sign, not to exceed more than three square feet per side, shall be displayed. All open house signs must be on the premises of the property for sale or rent. Directional signs to open houses shall be permitted only on the day of the open house and shall be located in such a way as not to obstruct traffic or visibility of traffic and within four blocks of the subject property. No more than three directional signs per property shall be permitted. No other attachments shall be permitted on directional signs or open house signs, including but not limited to balloons, ribbons, lights, streamers, flags or pinwheels.
(5)
Sandwich boards (see "portable sign" definition) shall be permitted according to the following regulations:
(a)
Signs shall not exceed eight square feet.
(b)
Signs are permissible along the sidewalk, provided a minimum walking distance of five feet shall be maintained to allow for a pathway for pedestrians.
(c)
Only one sandwich board will be permitted in front of the business it advertises.
(d)
Shall contain copy set out in chalk, paint or print form which is easily changed but which is not removable lettering.
(e)
Sandwich boards shall be weighted at the base so that the sign cannot be moved by strong winds; however, no sign shall be chained, tied or otherwise affixed to any structure or object.
(f)
Sandwich boards shall be taken indoors at the close of business each day.
§ 181-138 Signs requiring a permit.
The following types of permanent signs shall require permits:
A.
Signs permitted in the residential districts (see Table 7).
(1)
Institutional uses. Signs of schools, colleges, churches or other institutions of similar nature.
(2)
Residential development identification. Permanent monument signs which identify the name of the development shall be permitted in compliance with the following:
(a)
One sign may be located at the main entrance to the development, not to exceed 20 square feet in area.
(b)
Signs may also be permitted at secondary entrances to the development following approval by Borough Council.
(c)
These signs shall be landscaped in keeping with the character of the Borough.
Table 7 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Signs Permitted in Residential Districts | ||||
Sign Type | Maximum Sign Area (square feet) | Maximum Sign Height (feet) | Illumination | Number of Signs |
Institutional freestanding or monument | 15 | 4 | External | One per property or, if applicable, one per street frontage |
Multifamily or residential development identification freestanding or monument | 20 | Monument: 4 | External | One sign at the main entrance of the development (additional signs at secondary entrances when permitted by Borough Council) |
Parallel wall sign for rental office for residential development | 6 | Not to exceed eave line or top of parapet wall of principal building, whichever is lower | External | One sign |
B.
Signs permitted in the Town Center, Neighborhood Commercial Residential and Gateway Commercial Districts.
(1)
Any sign permitted in residential districts which relates to a use permitted in the district.
(2)
Single use. In addition to signs exempt from permits and temporary signs, individual commercial uses may have signs in accordance with the following:
(a)
Each single use may have one on-site freestanding sign or monument sign with the limits on area, height and illumination prescribed in Table 8.
Table 8 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Signs Permitted in Commercial Districts — Single Use, Single Entrance | |||
Sign Type | Maximum Area (square feet) | Maximum Height (feet) | Illumination |
Freestanding | 32 per side | 5 | Internal/external |
Monument | 32 per side | 5 | Internal/external |
(b)
In addition, each single use may be permitted two of the following signs per street frontage (in the case of corner properties) or up to two signs per entrance (where a building has front and rear entrances). Sign types, area, height and illumination conform to Table 9.
Table 9 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Signs Permitted in Commercial Districts — Single Use, Corner or Multi-Entrance | |||
Sign Type | Maximum Area | Maximum Height | Illumination |
Parallel wall | 1 square feet for every linear foot of building frontage, up to 200 square feet | Not to exceed eave line or top of parapet wall of principal building, whichever is lower | Internal/external |
Projecting wall | 12 square feet | Not to exceed eave line or top of parapet wall of principal building, whichever is lower | External |
Awning | No more than 30% of the exterior surface of the awning or canopy | At awning height | Internal/external |
Window | Not to exceed 15% of the window area | N/A | Internal/external |
(3)
Multiple uses. In addition to signs exempt from permits and temporary signs, multiple uses and properties utilizing common parking facilities may have signs in accordance with the following:
(a)
Properties with multiple uses may have one on-site freestanding sign or monument sign per street frontage which identifies the business or commercial center as a whole and/or which is a directory sign for the establishments on the property with the following limits on area, height and illumination as prescribed in Table 10.
Table 10 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Signs Permitted in Commercial Districts — Multiple Uses, Directory Sign | |||
Sign Type | Maximum Sign Area (square feet) | Maximum Sign Height (feet) | Illumination |
Freestanding | 40 | 8 | Internal/external |
Monument | 40 | 6 | Internal/external |
(b)
Each individual tenant may be permitted the following signs.
[1]
Each individual tenant may be permitted two of the following signs. The two signs permitted per tenant space may be placed on the facade of the building facing the street or parking lot or internal aisleway. Tenant signs may be hung together (e.g., one hanging from the bottom of another) so long as each sign does not violate its dimensional requirements. Sign types, area, height and illumination conform to Table 11.
Table 11 | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Signs Permitted in Commercial Districts — Multiple Uses, Individual Tenant Signs | |||
Sign Type | Maximum Area (square feet) | Maximum Height (feet) | Illumination |
Parallel wall | 10% of facade, up to 30 maximum | Not to exceed eave line or top of parapet wall of principal building, whichever is lower | Internal/external |
Projecting wall | 12 | Not to exceed eave line or top of parapet wall of principal building, whichever is lower | External |
Awning | 10 | At awning height | Internal/external |
Window | Not to exceed 15% of the total glass area | N/A | Internal/external |
(4)
Marquee signs. Marquee signs shall be permitted in addition to the otherwise permitted sign area exclusively for theaters and movie houses, provided that the total sign area shall not exceed 150 square feet. Such signs shall be required at all times to maintain a minimum vertical clearance of 10 feet above grade.
(5)
Murals. Murals may only be approved in the Town Center, Neighborhood Commercial Residential, and Gateway Commercial Districts by conditional use and are prohibited in all other districts.
(a)
The owner of record of the building on which a proposed mural is to be placed shall, in writing, consent to the placement of the mural on the property, agree to maintain the mural and consent to restore the wall or facade upon which the mural is placed to its prior existing condition if the mural is not properly maintained.
(b)
Upon removal or failure to maintain a mural, the owner shall paint the entire surface with quality exterior paint guaranteed by the manufacturer to last a period of at least 10 years.
(c)
Neither the subject nor location of a mural shall constitute a significant traffic hazard, endanger public health or safety, or be detrimental to the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity of the proposed mural.
(d)
Murals shall be nonverbal, including trademarks, except for the nameplate of the artist. Nameplates shall not exceed two square feet.
(e)
Murals which tastefully depict the history, heritage, culture or events of the local area are to be encouraged. The colors and themes of murals must be compatible with nearby historical buildings and sites and should complement the prevailing architectural style and ambience of the surrounding area. Loud colors, controversial themes and modern or abstract designs are prohibited. Commercial, pornographic or religious themes are prohibited.
(f)
No other signs, banners or advertisement of any type shall be allowed on a wall which contains an approved mural.
(g)
Mural application and review.
[1]
No person shall install, construct, paint or modify a mural without first submitting an application and obtaining approval of Borough Council.
[2]
An application for a mural shall contain the following minimum information:
[a]
Five copies of a color sketch of the proposed mural drawn to scale.
[b]
Five copies of a sketch drawn to scale of the proposed building to be covered by the mural.
[c]
A written description of the mural, including subject matter, type of paint to be used, and expected lifespan and maintenance plan for the mural.
[3]
Application submittal and review.
[a]
Applications shall be submitted to the Borough with an application fee in the amount of $25. The Borough Manager shall place the mural application on the agenda for consideration by Borough Council. Borough Council will approve or deny the application within 30 days of receipt and, if denied, will indicate in writing the reasons for the denial.
[b]
Regular maintenance of a mural shall not require an application fee.
§ 181-139 Permit procedures.
A.
Sign permits. It shall be unlawful to erect, construct or significantly alter any sign which requires a sign permit without first filing with Jenkintown Borough an application in writing, which application shall contain the information required by the Borough Zoning Officer.
(1)
Application for permit. The following shall be provided:
(a)
The name, address and telephone number of the property owner, and the signature of the owner or duly authorized agent for the owner.
(b)
Two copies of a plan drawn to scale, depicting:
[1]
The design of each sign face and sign structure with the dimensions, total area, sign height, depth, structural details, materials, lighting scheme, and proposed location.
[2]
The building elevations, existing and proposed facades, parapet walls, cornices and the location and size of all proposed and existing signage.
[3]
Such other information as required by the Borough Zoning Officer.
§ 181-140 Nonconforming signs.
Any sign legally existing at the time of the passage of this chapter that does not conform in use, location, height or size with the regulations of the district in which such sign is located shall be considered a nonconforming sign and shall be bound by the following regulations:
A.
A sign on a building or structure which does not conform to this chapter shall be removed or altered so as to be in conformity with the standards contained herein when the building or structure is demolished or when a building or structure renovation or expansion amounts to over 50% of the market value of the building or structure, assessed by the Montgomery County Board of Assessment Appeals.
B.
Nonconforming signs may be repainted, repaired, the sign copy maybe changed or sign panels replaced, provided that such actions do not increase the dimensions of the existing sign, nor in any way increase the extent of the sign's nonconformity.
C.
A nonconforming sign must be removed within 14 days after notification by the Code Enforcement Officer or be made to conform to this chapter in every respect whenever:
(1)
It is not securely attached to the ground, wall or roof and can be easily moved.
(2)
It becomes so deteriorated that it no longer serves a useful purpose of communication and is a nuisance as determined by the Code Enforcement Officer.
(3)
It is abandoned by the owner or the use is abandoned.
D.
Under the following conditions, nonconforming signs shall be exempt from the provisions of this article:
(1)
The nonconforming sign possesses documented historic value.
(2)
The reviewing body determines the nonconforming sign is unique by virtue of its architectural or cultural value or design.
§ 181-141 Off-site outdoor advertising signs.
[Added 11-28-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-6]
Off-site outdoor advertising signs (also known as "billboards") shall be permitted only on those properties within the Gateway Commercial District, subject to the following regulations:
A.
Sign area. An off-site outdoor advertising sign may not exceed 300 square feet per side in area, with a maximum length of 25 feet and a maximum width of 12 feet.
B.
Height and location of sign. The maximum height of an off-premises advertising sign shall be the minimum necessary in order for the sign to be reasonably viewed by the intended motorists and in no event higher than 40 feet measured from the ground level upon which the sign support is mounted to the top of the sign. Off-premises advertising signs shall be located no closer than 20 feet from any property line. Off-premises advertising signs shall not be located closer than 25 feet from any street measured from the ultimate right-of-way of such street. Off-premises advertising signs shall not be located closer than 1,000 feet from another off-premises advertising sign, measured linearly, nor closer than 500 feet from a residential zoning district within the Borough.
C.
Number of signs per lot. There shall be no more than one off-premises advertising sign per lot.
D.
Content. No off-premises advertising sign shall display any content prohibited by 18 Pa.C.S.A. § 5903.
E.
Lighting. Lighting for off-premises advertising signs is permitted, provided that the light is restricted from shining onto other properties located within Jenkintown Borough and that such lighting shall not take place between 12:00 midnight and sunrise. Lighting fixtures shall be placed above the sign and aimed downward, rather than at the bottom of the sign aimed upward toward the sky. All lighting fixtures shall be aimed and controlled so as to place their light output only on the face of the sign and not projected past the sign. Internal illumination and computer-controlled electronic displays shall be subject to Subsection J hereof.
F.
Lot size. The minimum lot size for a property on which an off-premises advertising sign may be located shall be 10,000 square feet.
G.
Landscaping. In addition to all other landscaping, buffering and berming requirements under this chapter, an off-site outdoor advertising sign visible from any residential zoning district shall be landscaped in order to shield its visibility from such residential district(s). A landscaping plan shall be submitted to, and reviewed and approved by, the Borough Engineer.
H.
Maintenance of sign. All off-premises advertising signs shall be structurally sound and maintained in good condition. Any off-premises advertising sign that is not structurally sound or is in poor condition shall be removed immediately at the sole cost and expense of the owner of the sign. In the event the owner of the sign fails to remove an off-premises advertising sign that is not structurally sound or is in poor condition, Jenkintown Borough shall provide written notice to the owner of the property on which the sign is located, by certified mail, giving the owner 60 days to remove the sign. Upon failure of the owner to comply with such written notice, Jenkintown Borough may remove the sign, and the cost thereof shall be paid by the owner of the property. The Borough may file a lien against the property or exercise any other remedy available by law in the event of failure by the owner to pay the cost of removal of the sign, upon receipt of an invoice from the Borough.
I.
Property boundaries. No part or foundation or support of any off-premises advertising sign shall be placed on, in or over any private property without the express written agreement of the owner of such private property. Such written agreement shall be submitted to the Borough as part of the application for a permit to erect such sign.
J.
Digital display. Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, digital off-site outdoor advertising signs shall be permitted subject to compliance with the following operating standards:
(1)
All messages/displays shall remain unchanged for a minimum of five seconds;
(2)
The time interval to change from one complete message/display to the next complete message/display shall be a maximum of one second;
(3)
There shall be no appearance of a visual dissolve or fading, in which any part of one electronic message/display appears simultaneously with any part of a second electronic message/display;
(4)
There shall be no appearance of any flashing or sudden burst of light and no appearance of animation, movement or flow of the message/display;
(5)
Any illumination intensity or contrast of light levels shall remain constant during permissible hours, provided that such lighting shall not take place between 12:00 midnight and sunrise; and
(6)
Any operating standards or regulations adopted by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation or other governmental entity with appropriate jurisdiction.
K.
Additional regulations. Each off-premises advertising sign shall comply with any and all applicable zoning regulations not specifically established herein and any and all Borough, state and/or federal regulations, including but not limited to the Jenkintown Borough Building Code and all applicable Pennsylvania Department of Transportation regulations.
