Little Falls Township
City Zoning Code
City Zoning Code
ARTICLE XXI
Signs
[Amended 3-21-2011 by Ord. No. 1117; 12-16-2019 by Ord. No. 1374]
§ 280-152 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to permit signs that will not, by their reason, size, location, construction or manner of display, endanger the public safety of individuals; confuse, mislead or obstruct the vision necessary for traffic safety; limit adequate light and air; overcrowd land or buildings or diminish their value; adversely impact the various zoning districts in the Township of Little Falls or otherwise endanger public health, safety and morals; and to permit and regulate signs in such a manner as to support and compliment land use objectives set forth in this chapter.
§ 280-153 Applicability.
Notwithstanding any other provision or ordinance, no sign may be erected, altered or maintained within the Township except as otherwise provided herein.
§ 280-154 Definitions.
As used in this article, the following terms have the meanings indicated:
A-FRAME OR SANDWICH SIGN
An A-shaped temporary and easily movable ground sign, usually two-sided, used for advertising commodities, services or entertainment usually conducted upon the premises where the sign is located.
ANIMATED SIGN
Any sign that uses movement or change of lighting to depict action or the illusion of movement or create a special effect or scene.
AREA IDENTIFICATION SIGN
A sign to identify a common area containing a group of structures, or a single structure, such as a residential subdivision, apartment complex, industrial park, mobile home park or shopping center, located at the entrance or entrances of the area. Such signs may or may not consist of a fence or wall or archway with letters or symbols affixed thereto.
AWNING SIGN
Any sign that is a part of, attached to or printed on an awning, canopy or other fabric, plastic or structural protective cover over a door, entrance, window or outdoor service area.
AWNINGS
Roof-like coverings extending over a walkway, sidewalk or exterior place, supported by a frame attached to the building and/or ground with a surface made of fabric or a more rigid material, such as plastic or metal, and either retractable against the building or fixed in place.
BANNER
Any sign printed or displayed upon cloth or other flexible material, with or without frames. National flags, state or municipal flags or the official flag of any not-for-profit institution shall not be considered banners for the purposes of this chapter.
BEACON
A stationary or revolving light which flashes or projects illumination, single-colored or multicolored, in any manner which is intended to attract or divert attention; except, however, this term is not intended to include any kind of lighting device which is required or necessary under the safety regulations described by the Federal Aviation Agency or similar agencies.
BILLBOARD OR OFF-SITE ADVERTISING SIGN
A sign having one or two sides which directs attention to anything except the business or function offered upon the premises where the sign is located.
BUILDING MARKER
Any sign indicating the name of a building and date and incidental information about its construction, which sign is cut into a masonry surface or made of bronze or other permanent material.
BUILDING SIGN
Any sign attached to any part of a building, as contrasted to a freestanding sign.
BUSINESS SIGN
A sign which directs attention to a business, industry, profession, commodity, service or entertainment sold or offered upon the premises where such sign is located.
CHANGEABLE MESSAGE
A sign or portion thereof with characters, letters or illustrations that can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. A sign on which the message changes more than eight times per day shall be considered an animated sign and not a changeable message sign for purposes of this chapter. A sign on which the only copy that changes is an electronic or mechanical indication of time or temperature shall be considered a time and temperature portion of a sign and not a changeable message sign for purposes of this chapter.
COMMERCIAL MESSAGE
Any sign wording, logo or other representation that, directly or indirectly, names, identifies or calls attention to a business, product, service or other commercial activity.
COMMUNITY SERVICE BOARD
See "message board."
CONSTRUCTION SIGN
Any sign giving the name or names of principal contractors, architects and lending institutions responsible for construction on the site where the sign is placed, together with other information included thereon.
DIGITAL SIGN
A billboard or off-site advertising sign that permits a change in the message displayed, limiting the number of messages displayed by requiring a minimum display time of eight seconds per message, and does not include any scrolling or flashing messages.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
A sign intended to direct or point toward a place or which gives directions. Such signs shall carry no advertising copy describing the activities carried on at the premises where such signs are located.
DIRECTORY SIGN
A sign listing the tenants or occupants of a building.
DISPLAY SURFACE AREA
The net geometric area enclosed by the display surface of the sign, including the outer extremities of all letters, characters and delineations, the surfaces upon which they are presented, voids between elements of the sign or any element of the display that goes beyond the primary surface, whichever is greatest; provided, however, that display surface area shall not include the structural supports for freestanding signs. The display surface area (or area) for a sign with more than one face shall be computed by adding together the area of all sign faces visible from any one point. When two identical sign faces are placed back-to-back, so that both faces cannot be viewed from any point at the same time, and when such sign faces are part of the same sign structure and are not more than 12 inches apart, the sign area shall be computed by the measurement of one of the faces.
ERECT
To construct, build, raise, assemble, place, affix, attach, create, paint, draw or in any other way bring into being or establish, but not including any of the foregoing activities when performed as incidental to the normal maintenance or repair of a sign or sign structure.
EXTERNALLY ILLUMINATED SIGN
Any illuminated sign whose illumination is derived from an external artificial source outside the display portion of the sign.
FACADE
The total wall surface, including door and window area of a building's principal face. A mansard roof shall be considered as part of the facade.
FEATHER FLAG
A six-foot-tall to twenty-foot-tall vertical flag, mounted on a portable based on anchored into the ground, that is used to advertise a company and draw attention to an event or business.
FLAG
Any fabric or bunting containing distinctive colors, patterns or symbols, used as a symbol of a government, political subdivision or other not-for-profit institution. A flag as defined herein is not a pennant or banner.
FLASHING SIGN
An illuminated sign, the illumination of which is not kept constant in intensity at all times when in use. Illuminated signs which indicate the time, temperature, weather or similar public service information shall not be considered flashing signs.
FREESTANDING OR GROUND SIGN
Any sign supported by permanent structures or supports that are placed on or anchored in the ground and that are independent from any building or other structure.
ILLUMINATED SIGN
A sign which is lighted by a self-contained interior light or by lights projected or directed onto it.
INCIDENTAL SIGN
A sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary to the use of the zone 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 zone lot on which the sign is located shall be considered incidental.
INDIRECTLY LIGHTED SIGN
Any sign that is illuminated by a source that shines directly on the surface of a sign, which light source is directly designed specifically to illuminate only the sign.
INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED SIGN
Any sign whose sole source of artificial illumination is contained within the display portion of the sign, including neon-type signs and internally and back-lit signs.
LOCATION
Any lot, premises, building, structure, wall or any place whatsoever upon which a sign is located.
MARQUEE
A permanent roof-like structure projecting beyond a building or extending along and projecting beyond the wall of the building and supported in part from the ground, generally designed and constructed to provide protection from the weather.
MARQUEE SIGN
Any sign attached to, in any manner, or made a part of a marquee.
MESSAGE BOARD
Any sign erected by a charitable, educational or religious organization or a public body, which is erected upon the same property as said institution, for purposes of announcing changing events.
NAMEPLATE SIGN
A sign which states the name or address, or both, of the occupant of the premises where the sign is located and not exceeding one square foot in area.
NEON SIGN
Self-luminous electric signs usually constructed of glass tubing containing a vapor or gas configured to form a display or lettering.
NONCONFORMING SIGN
Any sign that does not conform to the requirements of this chapter.
OFFICIAL SIGN
Any sign, symbol or device erected and maintained by the federal government, State of New Jersey, County of Passaic, Township of Little Falls or a public utility for the purpose of informing or guiding the public or for the protection and promotion of the health, safety, convenience and general welfare of the public.
OVERHANGING SIGN
A sign suspended from a marquee, awning, canopy or a wooden or metallic bar where such sign is located within the public right-of-way or other than parallel to the facade.
PENNANT
Any lightweight plastic, fabric or other material, whether or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire or string, usually, but not necessarily, in series, designed to move in the wind.
PERSON
Any association, company, corporation, firm, organization or partnership, singular or plural, of any kind.
POLITICAL SIGN
A sign advancing the candidacy of any candidate or group of candidates for public office or a cause subject to political judgment.
PORTABLE OR MOBILE SIGN
Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure, or a sign designated to be transported, including but not limited to signs designed to be transported by means of wheels; A-frames 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.
PROFESSIONAL SIGN
A sign listing only the name, profession and/or specialty of each practitioner.
PROJECTING SIGN
Any sign affixed to a building or wall in such a manner that its leading edge extends more than one foot beyond the surface of such building or wall.
PUMP ISLAND CANOPY SIGN
A flush-mounted sign on the vertical surface and canopy which is the ornamental or protective roof-like structure erected above the pumps of a gasoline station.
REAL ESTATE SIGN
A temporary sign placed upon the property for the purpose of advertising to the public the availability for sale, rent or lease of said property.
ROOF SIGN
Any sign erected, constructed and maintained upon or over the roof of any building with the principal support of the roof structure or parapet wall.
ROOFLINE
The juncture of the roof and the perimeter wall of the structure.
SETBACK
The distance from the property line to the nearest part of the applicable building, structure or sign, measured perpendicularly to the property line.
SIGN
Includes every object, device, frame, figure, character, mark, point, fixture, graphic design, picture, stroke, stripe, trademark, model, emblem, placard, symbol, display, light, logo or reading matter which is used or intended to be used to advertise, identify, display, direct or attract attention to an object, person, institution, organization, business, product, service, event or location by any means, including words, letters, figures, designs, symbols, colors, illumination or projected images, when the same is placed in the view of the general public, either outdoors or indoors. Any of the above which are not placed out of doors, but which are illuminated with artificial or reflected color or otherwise made visible from out of doors, shall be considered a sign within the meaning of this chapter when placed in such a way as to be used to attract attention or convey information to motorists or pedestrians.
SIGN AREA
The area within the shortest line that can be drawn around the outside perimeter of a sign, including all decorations but excluding supports, if any, unless such supports are illuminated. In computing the area of a sign, the area of all faces of such sign shall be included.
TEMPORARY SIGN
Any sign that is used only temporarily and is not permanently mounted.
WALL SIGN
Any sign that shall be affixed parallel to the wall or printed or painted on the wall of any building in such a manner as to read parallel to the wall on which it is mounted; provided, however, said wall sign shall not project above the top of the wall or beyond the end of the building. For the purposes of this chapter, any sign display surface that is affixed flat against the sloping surface of a mansard roof shall be considered a wall sign. Any sign that is affixed to the face of a building marquee, building awning or a building canopy shall be considered a wall sign.
WINDOW
Total glass area presented to public view for purposes of display.
WINDOW SIGN
Any sign, pictures, symbol, or combination thereof, designed to communicate information about an activity, business, commodity, event, sale or service, that is placed inside a window or upon the windowpanes of glass and is visible from the exterior of the window.
§ 280-155 Permit required.
No sign, except those set forth under § 280-161 below, shall be erected, installed, posted, placed, relocated, affixed or maintained upon any premises unless a zoning permit shall have first been obtained therefor from the Construction Official and the fee, if required, paid.
§ 280-156 Permit application procedure; fees; appeals.
A.
An application for permit shall contain the following information:
(1)
Name, address and signature of the applicant.
(2)
The design, specifications and plans of the sign, including dimensions, materials and details of the construction.
(3)
Location of the building to which the sign is to be attached or the premises on which it is to be erected. The size and location of all existing signs shall be included.
(4)
Name and address of the person, firm or corporation erecting the sign.
(5)
Written consent of the owner of the building to which the sign is to be attached or the premises on which it is to be erected.
(6)
Such other information as the Construction Official may require showing full compliance with this article and all other ordinances of the Township.
B.
Every application hereunder, except those signs set forth under § 280-161, shall be accompanied by the fee as provided for under Chapter 46, Construction Codes, Uniform.
C.
The Construction Official shall issue the permit only if:
(1)
The application has been submitted in the form and manner required.
(2)
The proposed sign complies in all respects with the requirements herein and all other ordinances of the Township.
D.
Every permit issued pursuant to this section shall automatically expire if the sign authorized hereunder shall not have been erected, posted, placed or affixed within 90 days of the date of issuance.
E.
The Construction Official shall revoke any permit if the sign for which it has been issued shall become violative of this article or any ordinance of the Township.
F.
The Construction Official shall maintain every application and a copy of every permit as a public record.
G.
Each approved permit shall be numbered, and the permit number recorded by the Construction Official as part of the permanent public record maintained in accordance with this section.
H.
Appeals. The Planning/Zoning Board shall have jurisdiction over all appeals or variances requested from the terms of this chapter.
I.
Site plans. If the installation or erection of any sign is contained in a site plan application, the Planning/Zoning Board shall have jurisdiction over the application.
§ 280-157 Nonconforming signs.
Any existing sign that was legally erected and maintained may continue to exist with the existing business at its present location but shall not be altered, rebuilt, relocated, enlarged or extended if the change results in a less conforming sign in any aspect. All new businesses are required to meet the requirements of § 280-156. New businesses are defined as a change of business or new ownership of an existing business.
§ 280-158 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are prohibited in all zone districts in the Township of Little Falls unless otherwise permitted by this chapter:
A.
Signs erected, used or maintained which in any way simulates official directional, traffic or warning signs erected or maintained by the state, the county or the Township or by any public utility or similar agency concerned with the protection of the public health or safety.
B.
Signs of any type which obstruct or otherwise confuse directional and identification signs, other places of business or other signs.
C.
Signs using red, yellow or green lights placed within 100 feet of any traffic control signal now or hereafter erected or placed so as otherwise to create confusion with respect to such signals.
D.
Any sign which is of such form, character or shape so as to confuse or distract the attention of the operator of a motor vehicle or any sign which creates a danger to the operator of a motor vehicle or pedestrians.
E.
Signs which obstruct any window, door, fire escape, stairway or opening intended to provide light or ingress and egress to or from any building or structure or which create a fire, safety or health risk.
F.
Animated, moving or revolving signs and signs using blinking, flashing, vibrating, flickering, tracer or sequential lighting, which display movement or the illusion of movement, including interior signs visible from the exterior of the premises. This provision shall include lighting around the perimeter of any window.
G.
Projecting wall signs, unless incorporated as an element of an awning or blade sign, which usage must conform to the appropriate sections of this chapter.
H.
Signs, other than officially authorized signs, attached to poles, trees, posts, fences, sidewalks or curbs.
I.
A sign or any portion of any sign, other than official traffic control devices or street signs, which is located within or encroaches upon the public right-of-way.
J.
Signs painted on the surface of a building.
K.
Roof signs of any type.
L.
A-frame, mobile, stand-alone or sandwich-type signs.
M.
All balloons and inflatable signs, except as permitted for temporary use up to seven days. A permit for these signs shall be required from the Construction Official. Only two temporary permits per year for balloon and inflatable signs shall be allowed for each business.
N.
Neon signs of any type.
O.
Feather flags of any type.
P.
No security frames of any type or material shall be permitted around windows or doors.
§ 280-159 General regulations and restrictions.
A.
Signs in residential zones.
(1)
No signs shall be permitted in a residential district except as otherwise specifically permitted:
(a)
A name or announcement sign accessory to a church, school or other institution of a public or quasi-public nature, provided that the size of any such sign shall not exceed 20 square feet, the height shall not exceed six feet, and not more than one such sign shall be permitted on a lot. Such sign may only be exterior-lighted.
(b)
A professional or announcement sign accessory to an existing home professional office in a residence building, provided that such sign shall not exceed two square feet in area. Such sign shall be fixed flat on the main wall of such building and shall not project more than eight inches. Only one such sign shall be permitted and may only be exterior-lighted.
(c)
Decorative, nonilluminated signs showing the name and/or address of the house or family, not larger than one square foot in area. Not more than one such sign shall be erected for each dwelling unit on any one lot.
(d)
One area identification sign for each entrance to a garden apartment complex, not to exceed six square feet in area per sign, and four feet in height.
(e)
Message board sign.
(2)
All signs in residential districts, as specifically permitted, shall have a setback of at least 10 feet from all lot lines.
(3)
No sign may contain more than four colors. Black and white shall be considered to be colors.
(4)
No window signs permitted.
B.
Signs in nonresidential zones. No signs shall be permitted in any nonresidential zone except as otherwise specifically permitted:
(1)
In the Business B-1, Business B-2 and Business B-3 Districts the following signs are permitted:
(a)
Any sign permitted in a residential district.
(b)
Wall signs.
(c)
Awning signs.
(d)
Blade signs.
(e)
Monument signs.
(f)
Window signs.
(g)
Message board sign.
(2)
In the Industrial I District, the following signs are permitted:
(a)
Any sign permitted in a residential district.
(b)
Wall signs.
(c)
Monument signs.
(d)
Window signs.
(e)
Message board sign.
C.
Restrictions on signs in nonresidential zones. No sign shall be erected, posted, placed, affixed or maintained upon any nonresidential premises except as follows:
(1)
Signs must be accessory to the principal permitted use, identifying only a business or businesses conducted on the premises on which the sign is located. Such sign shall state only the name of the occupant of the premises and, in concise form, the nature of the business or professional activity or activities conducted there.
(2)
No sign may contain more than four colors. Black and white shall be considered to be colors.
D.
Billboard or off-site advertising signs. Billboard or off-site advertising signs shall be prohibited in all zoning districts except in the B-2 Business Zone as a conditional use.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See § 280-81B.
E.
Wall signs.
(1)
Intent. The intent of regulating wall mounted signs is to ensure proper dimensioning and placement on the building, with respect to existing architectural features, to maintain or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the place in which they are located. Lighting of wall-mounted signs is also regulated to reduce glare.
(2)
Example images. Note: Photographs show general principles only and may not meet all standards.
 |  |
(3)
Components.
(a)
Components of wall-mounted signs include the letters, background, lighting, and an optional logo. The simplest wall-mounted signs consist of letters only, mounted directly on the wall. Wall-mounted signs are classified into the following construction types:
[1]
Cut out letters. Letters are individually attached to the wall or on a separate background panel and shall be externally illuminated.
[2]
Channel letters. Each letter has its own internal lighting element, individually attached to the wall or onto a separate background panel. The letter shall be translucent, or solid to create a backlit "halo" effect.
[3]
Flat panel. The letters are printed or etched on same surface as the background, which is then affixed to the wall and shall be lit externally.
[4]
Box or cabinet. The letters are printed or etched on a box, deep enough to house internal lighting. The box shall be translucent, and the letters are silhouetted; or the box shall be opaque and only the letters are translucent.
(4)
General provisions.
(a)
Wall-mounted signs shall consist of the name and logo of the business. Wall-mounted signs shall not list products, sales, or other promotional messages. Wall signs shall not contain address information, phone number, or other contact information.
(b)
Height and width shall be measured using smallest rectangle that fully encompasses the entire extent of letters, logo and background.
(c)
Wall-mounted signs shall not be wider than building face or tenant space.
(d)
Wall-mounted signs shall not project vertically above the roof line.
(e)
Where multiple wall-mounted signs are present on a single building (i.e., for retail tenants in a shopping center), signage shall be coordinated in terms of scale, placement, colors and materials.
(f)
Wall-mounted signs shall be illuminated at least from dusk to dawn. External lights shall be shielded from direct view to reduce glare.
(g)
Electrical raceways, conduits and wiring shall not be exposed. Internal lighting elements shall be contained completely within the sign assembly or inside the wall.
(5)
In the Business B-1, Business B-2 and Business B-3 Districts wall signs shall be limited to the following:
(a)
All businesses are permitted one wall-mounted sign. Businesses may have one additional wall sign where it has a secondary street frontage, but in no case shall a business have more than two wall-mounted signs in total. Where a business is allowed more than one wall-mounted sign, each sign shall be on a separate facade.
(b)
Area. The permitted total surface display area of all permitted signs hereunder shall not exceed the square footage figures produced by application of the following formulas (street frontage being expressed here in linear feet): 0.50 times the total principal street frontage plus 0.30 times the secondary street frontage in the case of a corner lot.
(c)
Wall signs shall not project more than 12 inches from the building facade to which it is attached; however, where a sign extends more than three inches from the face of said wall, the bottom of said sign shall not be closer than eight feet to the ground level below said sign.
(d)
Placement of wall signs (for buildings with more than one business or for buildings that abut other buildings).
[1]
Wall-mounted signs shall be placed where the architectural features suggest the best placement for signage. They shall be vertically aligned with the center of an architectural feature such as a storefront window, entry portal, or width of a bay or overall retail space.
[2]
Placement of wall-mounted signs shall be compatible with existing architectural features such as bays, openings, pilasters, etc. They shall not interrupt or obscure these features or cause visual disharmony.
[3]
Wall-mounted signs are not permitted above the ground floor of buildings.
(e)
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
[1]
Refer to table below for permitted quantities and dimensions and diagram below for an illustration of dimension features.
 | Wall Sign | ||
Quantity | 1 per business; 2 for corner properties | ||
Area | 0.5x street frontage + 0.3x secondary frontage | ||
a. | Width | 90% of business frontage | |
b. | Height | 2 feet 6 inches maximum | |
c. | Valance height | n/a | |
d. | Depth/ projection | 12 inches maximum | |
e. | Clearance | 8 feet minimum | |
f. | Apex | n/a | |
g. | Letter height | 2 feet maximum | |
(f)
Box and internally illuminated signs are permitted in the B-2 Zone but are not permitted in the B-1 or B-3 Zones. Backlight individual letters are permitted the B-1, B-2, and B-3 Zones.
(6)
In the Industrial L-1 District, wall signs shall be limited to the following:
(a)
All businesses are permitted one wall-mounted sign. Businesses may have one additional wall sign where it has a secondary street frontage, but in no case shall a business have more than two wall-mounted signs in total. Where a business is allowed more than one wall-mounted sign, each sign shall be on a separate facade.
(b)
Area. The permitted total surface display area of all permitted signs hereunder shall not exceed the square footage figures produced by application of the following formulas (street frontage being expressed here in linear feet): 0.75 times the total principal street frontage plus 0.30 times the secondary street frontage in the case of a corner lot.
(c)
Wall signs shall not project more than 12 inches from the building facade to which it is attached; however, where a sign extends more than three inches from the face of said wall, the bottom of said sign shall not be closer than eight feet to the ground level below said sign.
F.
Awnings.
(1)
Intent. The intent of regulating awning signs is to ensure proper dimensioning and placement on the building — with respect to existing architectural features — to maintain or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the place in which they are located. Awning signs are also regulated to ensure that they are made of durable materials and are fixed or replaced if damaged.
(2)
Awnings associated with principal permitted uses in the business district zones shall conform to the following specifications:
(a)
Fixed awnings attached to buildings shall not extend from the building more than 24 inches, nor be greater than 36 inches in height. Drop or retractable awnings shall not extend from the building more than six feet. The lower edge of the curtain of any awning or canopy shall be no closer to the ground or sidewalk than eight feet. No part of the iron or other supporting framework shall be closer than seven feet eight inches to the ground or sidewalk.
(b)
Two signs are permitted per establishment if one consists of an awning; provided, however, that the lettering on any such awning must be located on the vertical fringe and must be no more than four inches in height. If any lettering exceeds four inches in height or any lettering, symbol, logo or graphic appears anywhere on the awning or canopy other than on the vertical fringe, then the awning or canopy shall be considered to be the one sign permitted per establishment and per building front. Lettering or other graphics on the ends of a canopy or awning are specifically prohibited.
(c)
No internal lighting for awnings shall be permitted.
(d)
Notwithstanding the provisions of this article, any awning erected in such a manner, design or location so as to obstruct pedestrian traffic or which creates an obstruction to view by vehicular traffic or in any way creates a safety hazard to person or property shall be prohibited.
(e)
Awning signs shall be made of a high-quality canvas, woven acrylic, or similar material. Vinyl, plastic, mylar, and other shiny or glossy materials are prohibited. "Egg crate" undersides to awning signs are prohibited.
(f)
Awnings shall be permitted to the following colors: hunter green, classic navy, tan, or classic burgundy.
(g)
Text and graphics on the projecting sign shall be limited to the name and logo of the business only. Address labels, operating hours and contact information are prohibited.
(h)
No sign may contain more than four colors. Black and white shall be considered to be colors.
 | Awning Sign | ||
Quantity | 1 per window or storefront bay | ||
Area | n/a | ||
a. | Width | maximum of width of building front | |
b. | Height | 3 feet maximum | |
c. | Valance height | 12 inches maximum | |
d. | Depth/ projection | 2 feet maximum | |
e. | Clearance | 8 feet minimum | |
f. | Apex | n/a | |
g. | Letter height | 4 inches maximum | |
G.
Blade signs.
(1)
Intent. The intent of regulating the dimensions and lighting of projecting signs is to preserve or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the place in which they are located and to ensure adequate clearance above the public right-of-way. Blade signs shall maintain a minimum distance of eight feet from the sidewalk to the bottom of the sign.
(2)
Example images. Note: Photographs show general principles only and may not meet all standards.
 |  |
(3)
Projecting signs are permitted in all zones where commercial establishments are permitted.
(4)
Components. Components of projecting signs include the letters, background, lighting, and an optional logo. The simplest projecting signs consist of letters only, mounted directly on a panel. Permitted projecting signs are classified into the following construction types:
(a)
Cut-out letters. Letters are individually attached on a panel. Shall be externally lit.
(b)
Flat panel. The letters are printed or etched on same surface as the background, which is then affixed to the wall. Shall be externally lit.
(5)
General provisions.
(a)
Businesses shall be permitted one projecting sign where its primary frontage is no more than five feet from the front setback line. Businesses that have a secondary frontage on another street that is no more than two feet from the side setback line shall be permitted to have one additional projecting sign on that facade.
(b)
Projecting signs shall be on a single plane and project at a 90° angle from the face of the building. Signs may be double-sided.
(c)
Projecting signs shall be permitted only for businesses that have a primary entrance on the ground floor.
(d)
Text and graphics on the projecting sign shall be limited to the name and logo of the business only. Slogans or text advertising products or services are permitted if letters are not more than three inches in height and take up no more than 25% of the area of the sign. Address labels, operating hours and contact information are prohibited.
(e)
Internally illuminated projecting signs shall be prohibited.
(f)
Mounting hardware, such as supports and brackets, may be simple and unobtrusive or be highly decorative, but must complement the design of the sign, the building, or both.
(g)
For buildings with multiple signs (e.g., for multiple retail tenants in a shopping center), mounting hardware or sign shapes, sizes and colors shall be coordinated.
(h)
No sign may contain more than four colors. Black and white shall be considered to be colors.
(6)
Placement.
(a)
Projecting signs shall not extend beyond the top of the roof line.
(b)
On multistory buildings, projecting signs shall not extend above the bottom of the second-floor windowsills, unless placed above a marquee sign.
(c)
No portion of a projecting sign shall be less than eight feet above the surface over which it projects or project more than four feet from the wall on which it is attached into a public right-of-way.
(7)
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a)
Refer to table below for permitted quantities and dimensions and diagram below for an illustration of dimension features.
 | Blade Sign | ||
Quantity | 1 per facade, 2 max | ||
Area | 8 square feet | ||
a. | Width | 4 feet maximum | |
b. | Height | 2 feet maximum | |
c. | Valance height | n/a | |
d. | Depth/ projection | 2 feet maximum | |
e. | Clearance | 8 feet minimum | |
f. | Apex | n/a | |
g. | Letter height | 8 inches maximum | |
H.
Monument signs.
(1)
Intent. The intent of regulating the dimensions and appearance of monument signs is to preserve or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the places in which they exist. Regulations also ensure that the messages on monument signs are clear and not cluttered by excessive information.
(2)
Example images. Note: Photographs show general principles only and may not meet all standards.
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(3)
Components.
(a)
Monument signs typically consist of a solid structural base with a framework of brick or stone. Monument signs have a message area that consists of individual letters.
(b)
Primary tenant or development name. Usually the largest name or logo appearing on a freestanding sign and placed at the very top.
(c)
Secondary tenants. Smaller signs located below the primary tenant.
(d)
Street address. Number and street name required for all monument signs.
(4)
General provisions.
(a)
Monument signs for businesses or shopping centers shall be permitted where the primary street frontage is greater than 50 feet and where the setback to the main building includes a driveway or surface parking lot. One monument sign is permitted per street frontage.
(b)
Nonresidential uses in residential zones are permitted one monument sign per street frontage.
(c)
The base of the sign shall be landscaped. Landscaping shall not obscure text. Landscaping shall not block sight lines of the driveway or circulation aisles.
(d)
Monument signs shall be limited to the name of the business and street address. Other messages, including but not limited to list of services or products, phone numbers, sales or promotions, and slogans, are prohibited.
(e)
Monument signs for shopping centers with more than one tenant shall be limited to a maximum of five business names, including the name of the retail center, if it has one.
(f)
Monument signs shall use between 5% to 10% of its area for address identification. Letters and numbers shall be at least six inches high and be legible from the street.
(g)
Monument signs shall be designed to match or complement the colors and architectural features of the adjacent building. Incorporate similar architectural elements at top, sides or base to frame the sign. Monument signs shall include a cap.
(h)
If a monument sign contains listings for multiple tenants, the information shall be presented in a clear and consistent manner. Color, font size, and style shall be coordinated across a monument sign.
(i)
If a monument sign is intended to be seen primarily by motorists, letter size shall be such that a motorist would not need to slow down drastically to read the contents of the sign.
(j)
No sign may contain more than four colors. Black and white shall be considered to be colors.
(k)
Sings shall be externally lit, with the exception of properties with frontage along Route 46, which are permitted to be internally illuminated.
(5)
Placement.
(a)
Monument signs shall be placed at the entrance to parking lots or driveways, perpendicular to the street. Monument signs shall not block sight lines at the driveway or circulation aisles.
(b)
No portion of the monument sign shall be located within the public right-of-way. All parts of monument signs shall be located at least five feet from any property line.
(c)
Permitted quantities and dimensions. Refer to table below[2] for permitted quantities and dimensions and diagram below for an illustration of dimension features.
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[2]
Editor's Note: Said table is on file in the Borough offices.
I.
Window signs.
(1)
Intent. The intent of regulating the dimensions of window signs is to protect public safety by preventing cluttering of storefront windows and maintaining visibility through storefront windows.
(2)
Example images. Note: Photographs show general principles only and may not meet all standards.
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(3)
Window signs are permitted in all zones where commercial establishments are permitted.
(4)
Components. Window signs are classified into the following construction types.
(a)
Poster or placard. A sign printed on paper, cardstock or other material, which is affixed to the window or placed against it.
(b)
Label applique letters. A sticker that is applied to the window. Label appliques shall consist of individual letters or graphics with no background.
(c)
Painted letters. Painted directly on the window.
(d)
Hanging sign. Signs that are hanging from the ceiling behind the window.
(e)
Door sign. Signs applied to the glass portion of an entrance doorway.
(5)
General provisions.
(a)
Window signs shall not interfere with the primary function of windows, which is to enable passersby and public safety personnel to see through windows into premises and product displays.
(b)
Window signs shall be limited to the lower 1/3 of any windowpane. Commercial, office, or institutional establishments on the second floor of a two-story building are permitted to have window signs also limited to the lower 1/3 of any windowpane. Window signs are not permitted above the ground floor of buildings three stories and higher.
(c)
Window signs shall be allowed to list services and/or products sold on the premises, or provide phone numbers, operating hours or other messages, provided that the total aggregate area of these messages not exceed the area utilized for the business identification.
(d)
Merchandise or other objects that are located inside within three feet of the window and that are not part of a commercial window display shall be considered window signs, subject to the provisions in Subsection I(5)(b).
(e)
Door signs shall be no larger than 20% of the area of the door onto which it is applied.
(f)
Neon, moving lights or lighting outlining the perimeter of windows are prohibited.
(6)
Placement.
(a)
Window signs shall be applied to, or placed facing, the interior side of the window.
J.
Lighting and illumination.
(1)
Any sign illumination, including gooseneck reflectors, external illumination, and internal illumination, must be designed, located, shielded, and directed to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon roadways and surrounding properties, and prevent the distraction of motor vehicle operators or pedestrians in the public right-of-way.
(2)
For non-LED illuminated signs, the maximum allowable footcandle at the lot line for any illuminated sign is one footcandle. However, for any non-LED illuminated signs that are allowed to extend over the lot line, the maximum of one footcandle is measured at the back of curb or edge of pavement.
(3)
For LED signs, the maximum footcandle is measured as follows:
(a)
The difference between the off and solid-message measurements cannot exceed 0.3 footcandles.
(b)
All permitted LED signs must be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and is programmed to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions or be adjusted to comply with the 0.3 footcandle maximum.
(4)
The sign face of internally illuminated signs must function as a filter to diffuse illumination. The sign face must cover all internal illumination components so that no exposed bulbs are visible.
(5)
All external illumination of a sign must concentrate the illumination upon the printed area of the sign face.
(6)
No sign illumination may be combined with reflective materials, such as mirrors, polished metal, or highly glazed tiles, which would increase glare.
(7)
Neon components used as a sign material or sign accent are permitted for permanent window signs in non-residential zoning districts. Flashing neon is prohibited.
(8)
Neon or LED lighting to outline doors and windows is prohibited.
K.
Hours of illumination. Signs shall be illuminated until one hour after closing hours. Exceptions shall be twenty-four-hour businesses and any businesses with frontage along Route 46
§ 280-160 Design standards.
A.
Freestanding signs are encouraged to be erected in such a manner as to be considered ground signs or lawn signs.
B.
Signs shall be located outside of sight triangles wherever practicable, and where this is not possible, said sign(s) may only be located within the sight triangle if the sign(s) can be configured in a manner that does not obstruct driving vision.
C.
No sign of any type will be permitted to obstruct driving vision, traffic signals and traffic direction and identification signs.
D.
Illuminated signs shall be designed, located, shielded and directed so as to prevent the extension of glare or direct light beyond the lot lines and beyond curbing or road edges adjacent to the property. Signs may not be illuminated beyond 9:00 p.m. or beyond normal business hours in the event those hours extend past 9:00 p.m. All exterior-lighted signs shall be shielded or have translucent fixtures to prevent negative off-site effects.
E.
Computation of area of multifaced signs. The display surface area (or areas) for a sign with more than one face shall be computed by adding together the area of all sign faces visible from any one point. When two identical sign faces are placed back-to-back, so that both faces cannot be viewed from any point at the same time, and when such sign faces are part of the same sign structure and are not more than 12 inches apart, the sign area shall be computed by the measurement of one of the faces.
F.
Maintenance. All signs shall be maintained in a safe, presentable and good structural condition at all times, including the replacement of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning and other acts required for the maintenance of said sign. The owner of any property on which a sign is located and those responsible for the maintenance of the sign shall be equally responsible for the condition of the sign. Any sign that is or shall become dangerous or unsafe in any manner whatsoever shall be repaired and made safe, in conformity with this chapter, or shall be removed by the owner, lessor, agency or occupant of the building, property or land upon which it is placed or to which it is attached. In the event any sign is in an unsafe or dangerous condition and is not corrected or abated, the Construction Official shall require its removal in accordance with and in the same manner provided for in Chapter 163, Property Maintenance, of the Code of the Township of Little Falls.
§ 280-161 Exempt signs.
The following signs shall not require permits and are exempt, so long as they conform to the standards contained herein:
A.
Official signs posted by governmental agencies or pursuant to government statute, order or regulation.
B.
Real estate signs advertising the sale, lease or rental of the premises upon which the sign is located, limited to one sign per lot or premises advertised for sale or rent. Real estate signs for residential properties are limited to six square feet in area, and real estate signs for commercial or industrial properties are limited to 12 square feet in area. Any such sign shall be located at least five feet from the property curb line. All signs must be professionally printed and not handwritten.
C.
Lights and strings of illuminated devices and graphics used to celebrate a national or religious holiday for a period not to exceed 14 days before the holiday and 14 days following the holiday.
D.
Residential nameplate and professional nameplate signs, not exceeding one square foot in area for each side. The signs shall not contain any advertising message and shall be nonilluminated.
E.
Historic tablets, cornerstones, memorial plaques and emblems which do not exceed six square feet in area, and which are installed by government agencies or civil or religious organizations.
F.
Temporary signs for advertising public functions or fundraising events for nonprofit or charitable organizations, provided that such signs do not exceed 24 square feet in area and are not illuminated. Said signs shall be put in place no earlier than 14 days before the event and shall be removed upon completion of the public phase of said event or function.
G.
Bulletin boards not over 12 square feet in area for public, charitable or religious institutions when the same are located on the premises of said institutions and are used solely for temporary notices.
H.
Nonilluminated on-site directional and parking signs, warning signs and signs posting property as "private property," "no trespassing" or similar signs not to exceed three square feet in area.
I.
Temporary signs denoting the architect, engineer or contractor when placed upon the site under construction and not exceeding six square feet in area. Said signs shall be in place only while work is in progress and shall be placed at least 20 feet from the curb line.
J.
Garage sale signs located on the premises only, not exceeding three square feet and containing the date of sale. Said signs shall be put in place no earlier than five days before the garage sale and shall be removed within 24 hours of the last day of sale.
K.
Temporary promotional decorations for opening day of a new business, to be displayed for a period not to exceed 30 days. Decorations shall consist of small "grand opening" banners and small balloons.
L.
Flags or emblems of religious, education, civic or governmental organizations.
M.
Special signs serving the public convenience such as "notary public," "public rest rooms," "public telephone" or words of similar import. The area of such sign shall not exceed 24 square inches.
N.
Signs which are an integral part of vending machines, including gasoline pumps and milk machines, provided that they do not exceed eight square feet in area.
O.
Temporary, nonilluminated political signs, provided that such signs do not exceed nine square feet in area and do not exceed eight feet to the top of said sign. Such signs may not be displayed on any trees, telephone poles or lighting stanchions or other public property. All such signs shall be erected no earlier than 30 days prior to an election and shall be removed within five days after the completion of said political election. Said signs shall be placed or a minimum of four feet from the curb line or edge of pavement.
P.
Temporary banner signs, limited to 2.5 feet in height and eight feet in width, limited to a timeframe of three weeks. Placed across a street suspended from telephone poles or light stantions, only in locations designated by the Mayor and Township Council.
Q.
Menu Boards, provided that they are not located in the front yard.
R.
"Open" and "closed" signs, provided they do not exceed one per business, may be placed in the top 2/3 of a window.
S.
Temporary leasing signs, until 75% of the development is leased may be provided but limited to two colors.
T.
Anniversary signs, for up to a three-month period, limited to 10 feet by four feet in size. Must be located on the building for a commercial business.
U.
Memorial walls, no more than five feet in height and not located in the front yard.
V.
Signs located on municipal property for municipal purposes only authorized by the Mayor and approved by Council resolution.
W.
Signs similar is in use to no trespassing, beware of dog, no soliciting provided that they are no larger than 8.5 inches by 11 inches and no more than two per property.
§ 280-162 Enforcement authority; violations and penalties.
A.
The Construction Official shall have the responsibility and authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter.
B.
Violations and penalties. Any party alleged to be in violation of this article may be issued a summons and, upon conviction in the Municipal Court, may be punished as provided in Chapter 1, General Provisions, Article I.
