Moorestown City Zoning Code
ARTICLE XXIV
Signs
[Amended 2-28-1977 by Ord. No. 859; 6-12-1978 by Ord. No. 923; 8-28-1978 by Ord. No. 942; 11-13-1978 by Ord. No. 954; 6-9-1980 by Ord. No. 1037; 8-12-1985 by Ord. No. 1239; 5-22-1989 by Ord. No. 1475-89; 6-12-1989 by Ord. No. 1478-89; 7-10-1989 by Ord. No. 1482]
§ 180-79 (Reserved) [1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former §§ 180-75 through 180-79, regarding various sign provisions, as amended, was repealed 7-10-1989 by Ord. No. 1482-89.
§ 180-80 Purpose, intent and scope.
[Amended 5-4-2015 by Ord. No. 5-2015]
It is the purpose of this article to promote the public health, safety and general welfare through reasonable, consistent and nondiscriminatory sign standards. The sign regulations in this article are not intended to censor speech or to regulate viewpoints, but instead are intended to regulate the secondary effects of speech and especially insofar as those secondary effects may adversely affect aesthetics, traffic and pedestrian safety. In order to preserve and enhance the Township as a desirable community in which to live and do business, a pleasing, visually attractive environment is of foremost importance. The regulation of signs within the Township is a highly contributive means by which to achieve this desired end. These sign regulations have been prepared with the intent of enhancing the visual environment of the Township and promoting its continued well-being and are intended to:
A.
Satisfy the intent and purpose of the Municipal Land Use Law, including N.J.S.A. 40:55D-2a, to guide the appropriate use or development of all lands in this state, in a manner which will promote the public health, safety, morals and general welfare; N.J.S.A. 40:55D-2c, to provide adequate light, air and open space; N.J.S.A. 40:55D-2i, to promote desirable visual environment through creative development techniques and good civic design and arrangements; and N.J.S.A. 40:55D-2j, to prevent degradation of the environment through the improper use of land;
B.
Encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication in the Township;
C.
Maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment and the Township's ability to attract sources of economic development and growth;
D.
Improve pedestrian and traffic safety;
E.
Minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on nearby public and private property;
F.
Lessen the visual clutter that may otherwise be caused by the proliferation, improper placement, illumination, animation, excessive height and excessive size (area) of signs which compete for the attention of pedestrian and vehicular traffic;
G.
Encourage and allow signs that are appropriate to the zoning district in which they are located and consistent with the category of use and function to which they pertain;
H.
Curtail the size and number of signs and sign messages to the minimum reasonably necessary to identify a residential or business location and the nature of any such business;
I.
Establish sign size in relationship to the scale of the lot and building on which the sign is to be placed or to which it pertains;
J.
Regulate signs in a manner so as not to interfere with, obstruct the vision of or distract motorists, bicyclists or pedestrians;
K.
Except to the extent expressly preempted by state or federal law, ensure that signs are constructed, installed and maintained in a safe and satisfactory manner and protect the public from unsafe signs;
L.
Preserve, conserve, protect and enhance the aesthetic quality and scenic beauty of all districts of the Township;
M.
Allow for traffic control devices consistent with national standards and whose purpose is to promote highway safety and efficiency by providing for the orderly movement of road users on streets and highways, and that notify road users of regulations and provide warning and guidance needed for the safe, uniform and efficient operation of all elements of the traffic stream;
N.
Protect property values by precluding, to the maximum extent possible, sign types that create a nuisance to the occupancy or use of other properties as a result of their size, height, illumination, brightness or movement; and
O.
Regulate the appearance and design of signs in a manner that promotes and enhances the beautification of the Township.
§ 180-80.1 Permit requirements.
[Amended 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022]
A.
A zoning permit shall be required in all zones for construction, erection, alteration, location and/or relocation of any signs as defined within this article, except as follows:
(1)
Nameplates and address signs in a residential zone.
(2)
Real estate sale or rental signs, but only on the premises to which they relate and located no less than 10 feet from any side property line, as follows:
(a)
In the SRC, SRC-1, SRC-2, BP-1 and BP-2 Zoning Districts, one sign per lot or premises that does not exceed 10 square feet of display area or six feet in height, which is located on the property, not in the right-of-way;
(b)
On nonresidential properties in the C, CRO, CHS and CIO Zoning Districts, one sign per lot or premises that does not exceed five square feet of display area or six feet in height, which is located on the property, not in the right-of-way;
(c)
On residential properties in the C, CRO, CHS and CIO Zoning Districts, one sign per lot or premises that does not exceed five square feet of display area or four feet in height, which is located on the property, not within the right-of-way;
(d)
In all other Zoning Districts, one sign per lot or premises that does not exceed five square feet of display area or four feet in height, which is located on the property, not within the right-of-way.
(e)
If a sign height of greater than four feet is required for visibility in a residential zone, the sign height or location may be modified, with the approval of the Township Zoning Officer, provided that the sign display area is reduced to no greater than five square feet, and in no case shall the sign be greater than 10 feet in height for a height waiver. Such signs shall be removed within 10 days of the sale or change of status of the property.
(3)
Official governmental agency signs.
(4)
Signs advertising the sale of products grown on the premises, provided that they do not exceed six square feet in area. There shall be a maximum of two such signs on any one lot.
(5)
Signs prohibiting or controlling trespassing, fishing and/or hunting, provided that they are limited to one sign for each 50 feet of street frontage. Each sign shall not exceed two square feet.
(6)
Temporary signs.
(a)
One sign announcing, regardless of the entity or subject involved and neutral as to content, a special event or related to a specific date shall be permitted, provided that such sign does not exceed five square feet or four feet in height and is located on private property, not within the right-of-way. The temporary sign may be placed 90 days prior to the event or specific date and shall be removed within 10 days after the conclusion of the event or specific date. No temporary sign shall be erected, posted or placed on private property without the express consent of the owner. The owner of said private property shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of this section.
(b)
On tracts of land containing more than 20 acres and having an approved residential subdivision, one sign shall be permitted which does not exceed 10 square feet or four feet in height and is located on private property, not within the right-of-way. The temporary sign shall be removed within five days after all lots within the subdivision have been sold or two years, whichever comes first.
(c)
In the SRC, BP-1 and BP-2 Zoning Districts, one temporary construction sign shall be permitted which does not exceed 10 square feet or four feet in height and is located on private property, not within the right-of-way. The temporary sign shall be removed the later of five days after the issuance of the final certificate of occupancy or 90 days after the date of installation.
(d)
New construction, renovation or home improvement signs placed by craftsmen, contractors, architects or developers shall be permitted one sign, with the consent of the property owner, which does not exceed five square feet or four feet in height and is located on private property, not within the right-of-way. The temporary sign shall be removed no later than 45 days after the date of installation.
(e)
The maximum size for any other temporary sign shall be five square feet in area, and the maximum height shall be four feet in height, inclusive of supports. A double-sided sign shall be treated as one sign. No temporary sign shall be artificially illuminated. No temporary signs shall be affixed to a fire hydrant, telephone booth, utility pole or other public utility structure. No temporary signs shall be posted, painted or otherwise affixed to trees, rocks or natural features within a street right-of-way. Signs shall be placed behind the sidewalk or bicycle path. Where there is no sidewalk or bicycle path, signs shall be placed on private property, not within the right-of-way. Temporary signs shall be placed no closer than or within 10 feet of any intersection.
(f)
No temporary sign shall be erected, posted or placed on public property unless placed there by the public entity owning or maintaining the property or placed there with the public entity's written consent.
(7)
Real estate open house signs, subject to the following standards:
(a)
Directional signs.
[1]
A maximum of four directional signs per open house from the nearest designated main street, plus one open house sign on the premises to which they relate. The following are designated main streets:
Borton Landing Road
Bridgeboro Road
Camden Avenue
Centerton Road
Chester Avenue
Church Street
Creek Road
Hartford Road
Kings Highway
Lenola Road
Main Street
Riverton Road
Route 38
Westfield Road
[2]
Directional signs may be posted in nonpaved areas within street rights-of-way.
(b)
No directional signs leading to open houses in other municipalities shall be permitted.
(c)
Such signs shall be posted no earlier than one hour prior to an open house event and shall be removed no later than one hour after such event; such signs shall not be posted before 3:00 p.m. on Fridays, after 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays, before 12:00 noon on Sundays and after 5:00 p.m. on Sundays; such signs shall be prohibited on all other days and times.
(d)
Directional signs shall be no larger than eight inches high and 24 inches wide.
(e)
Directional signs shall be posted so that the top of the sign is no more than 18 inches above grade.
(f)
Only one on-premises sign shall be permitted; either a sale sign or an open house sign or a combination sale and open house sign. In no event shall the permitted sign be larger than six square feet in area; no directional sign shall be posted in the right-of-way in front of the premises for sale.
(g)
No more than one sign per direction at street intersections.
(h)
No balloons, streamers, flags or stickers and other like appurtenances shall be attached to any directional/open house sign.
(i)
Realtors may print their multiple-listing service office identification number in pen in the designated area on directional signs.
(j)
Only one type of generic directional sign shall be permitted, and it shall be approved by the Appearance Committee and shall be limited in color to forest green with white lettering for the words "open house" and the directional arrow.
B.
A building permit shall be required for construction, erection, alteration, location and/or relocation of any sign as defined in this article, except as follows:
(1)
All signs exempt in Subsection A.
§ 180-80.2 Definitions.
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89; 6-11-2001 by Ord. No. 1965-01; 5-4-2015 by Ord. No. 5-2015; 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022]
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
ACCESSORY SIGN
Relating only to uses of the premises on which the sign is located, or indicating the name or address of a building or occupants or management of a building on the premises where the sign is located.
BILLBOARD SIGN
A sign structure and/or sign utilized for: advertising an establishment, an activity, a product or service or entertainment that is sold, produced, manufactured, available or furnished; or promoting any activity, including noncommercial activity and solicitation, such as but not limited to charitable solicitation and noncommercial speech, at a place other than on the property on which said sign structure and/or sign is located.
CHANGEABLE COPY
Information which relates to changing events and/or messages relating to the structure and use to which the sign relates.
CONSTRUCTION SIGN
A freestanding sign erected during the construction of a project, with information, including but not limited to the name of the project, architect, developer, engineer, builder and/or leasing agent, the development schedule and the address and/or telephone number for information. Such signs shall be removed at the time of issuance of a permanent sign permit or the first occupancy permit, whichever is applicable.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
A detached sign located on the premises and directing motorists to access drives, parking areas or occupants of the premises.
DOUBLE-FACED SIGN
A sign with two parallel or nearly parallel faces, back to back, and located not more than 24 inches from each other.
ERECT
To build, construct, attach, place, suspend or affix, and shall also include the painting of signs or displays on the exterior surface of a building, structure or natural surface.
ESTATE
A residential property at least five acres in size.
EXTERNALLY LIGHTED
Any sign whose sole source of artificial illumination is outside the display portion of the sign.
FACADE SIGN
A sign fastened to or painted on the facade of a building in such a manner that the facade becomes the supporting structure for or forms the background surface of the sign and which does not project more than one foot from such facade.
FLASHING SIGN
An illuminated sign on which the artificial or reflected light is not maintained stationary and constant in intensity and color at all times when in use. Any sign which revolves or moves, whether illuminated or not, shall be considered a "flashing sign," except for signs which display time, temperature or date.
FREESTANDING SIGN
Any nonmovable sign not affixed to a building.
FRONTAGE
The distance between property lines of any property measured along the right-of-way lines of any street.
FUNCTIONAL SIGN
Directional, informational or public service signs, such as signs advertising locations of rest rooms, telephones or similar facilities of public convenience and signs located on mechanical dispensing equipment that identify its product.
GRADE LEVEL
The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground where the sign support structure meets the ground.
HOME OCCUPATION SIGN
A sign that relates to any business or profession conducted within a structure whose primary use is residential and the occupant of that residence conducts the business therein.
INTERNALLY LIGHTED
Any sign whose sole source of artificial illumination is contained within the display portion of the sign.
LINEAR FRONT FOOT OF BUILDING
The distance between building side lines of any building measured along the right-of-way of the street.
MARQUEE SIGN
Any sign attached to or hung from the marquee. For the purpose of this article, a "marquee" is a covered structure projecting from and supported by the building with independent roof and drainage provisions and which is erected over a doorway or doorways as protection against weather.
MOBILE SIGN
A portable sign which is not affixed to the building structure or permanently attached to a freestanding structure.
MULTIPLE-OCCUPANCY AND TENANCY SIGN
A sign relating to a use or facility containing multiple occupancy and tenancy and displaying the names, professions and interests of the various tenants.
NONCONFORMING SIGN
Those signs which do not meet the criteria of this article for any reason, such as, but not limited to, size, location, construction, attachment or affixture to building or ground.
NONRIGID AWNING
An awning structure attached to a building, typically made of tubular frame and covered with canvas or similar material.
OBSOLETE SIGN
A sign which has become no longer useful for any on-site purpose.
OFFICE BUILDING
A building containing a room or group of rooms used for conducting the affairs of a business, profession, service, industry or government or like activity and which may contain ancillary services for the building occupant.
OFFICE COMPLEX
Two or more office buildings with common parking areas.
OFFICIAL SIGN
Any sign, symbol or device erected and maintained by the federal, state, county, or local government agency for the purpose of informing or guiding the public; or for the protection of health, safety, convenience and general welfare as determined by the Planning Board.
OFF-SITE SIGN
Any sign located on a lot other than the lot occupied by the use, event or product which said sign identifies.
ORGANIZATION
A club or lodge organized for fraternal or social purposes, the buildings and services of which are for the use of members and their guests only.
PERMANENT SIGN
Any sign or sign structure which is permanently affixed or installed and is intended for long-term use.
PERSON
A corporation, company, association, society, firm, partnership or joint-stock company, as well as an individual, a state and all political subdivisions of a state or any agency or instrumentality thereof.[1]
REAL ESTATE SIGN
A sign of an owner of real property or of a licensed real estate broker that indicates that a particular parcel or portion of real property is available for sale or lease.
ROOF SIGN
A sign erected, constructed and maintained on or above the roof of any building and attached thereto.
SIGN
Any identification, description, illustration or device, illuminated or nonilluminated, which is visible from any public place and which directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution, business or solicitation. This definition does not include nonlighted displays, artistic and/or decorative window treatments installed primarily for aesthetics in the windows of commercial establishments.
SIGN AREA AND DIMENSIONS
Includes all lettering, wording, coloring and accompanying designs and symbols, together with background, whether open or enclosed, but not including any supporting frame work or bracing incidental to the display itself.
STRUCTURAL TRIM
The molding, battens, cappings, nailing strips, latticing, platforms, letters, figures, characters or representations in cut out or irregular form, which are attached to the sign structure.
TEMPORARY EXTERIOR ADVERTISING SIGN
A temporary sandwich-board-type sign located on the ground or a sign mounted on an easel advertising or describing retail goods or services provided or made available on the premises.
TEMPORARY SIGN
A sign that is not permanently attached to a building, structure, pole or land and which is either: (a) designed of materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic or other lightweight material, with or without frames, that are not suitable for long-term or permanent display, and/or (b) intended to be displayed for a limited period of time.
VEHICULAR SIGN
Any sign permanently or temporarily attached to a nonoperating vehicle. Such a vehicle shall include, but not be limited to, a car, truck, van or bus.
WINDOW SIGN
Any sign painted on, attached to or placed in the window of a commercial, office of industrial building. Decorative or artistic window treatments, including stained glass, shall not be considered signage if the lettering, exclusive of window treatments or decorative elements, does not exceed 25% of the overall window area.
WINDOW TREATMENT, ARTISTIC
Any type of materials used to cover a window for primarily artistic or decorative purposes. Decorative stained-glass elements which do not contain lettering or are not located along the building frontage shall not be considered window signage.
[1]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "political sign," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022.
§ 180-80.3 General regulations.
The following regulations apply generally to all signs and are in addition to other regulations contained elsewhere in this article.
A.
Bulk requirements. The following bulk requirements apply to any sign in the Township of Moorestown other than those permitted in the street right-of-way or permitted elsewhere in this article:
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89]
(1)
Minimum lot frontage: 50 feet.
(2)
Minimum front yard setback: 10 feet from the right-of-way and 50 feet from any intersection of a street or driveway. The minimum front yard setback shall not apply if the height to the bottom of the sign is seven feet above grade level.
(3)
Minimum side yard setback: 15 feet.
(4)
Maximum height limitation for a freestanding sign: 20 feet
(5)
Minimum distance between freestanding signs: 50 feet.
B.
Computation of sizes.
(1)
The size of any sign shall be computed by multiplying its greatest height by its greatest length, exclusive of supporting structures, unless such supporting structure is illuminated or is in the form of a symbol or contains identifications copy, but for the purpose of making such determination, the applicant may block off portions of the sign into not more than three rectangles in order to exclude large areas of open space caused by the particular design or shape of the sign.
[Amended 5-10-1993 by Ord. No. 1660-93; 4-27-2015 by Ord. No. 6-2015]
(2)
Signs with two faces carrying the same message on both sides shall be measured by using the surface area of one side of the sign only. When there is a different message on each side of the sign, each side will be considered a separate sign.
(3)
For signs with three or more faces, the total size shall not exceed 1 1/2 times the permitted sign area.
(4)
Cylindrical signs shall be computed by multiplying 1/2 of the circumference by the height of the sign.
C.
Sign construction shall be in accordance with the following provisions:
(1)
All signs shall be maintained in good condition and appearance, including the exposed backs of all signs visible to the public, which shall be suitably finished.
(2)
All signs shall be permanently fixed to the ground or attached to a building or structure in a manner conforming to article 29, as amended, of the BOCA National Building Code and other applicable state and Township statutes and ordinances.
(3)
Structural and safety features and electrical systems shall be in accordance with the requirements of the applicable codes and ordinances. No sign shall be approved for use unless it has been inspected by the Construction Official and is found to be in compliance with all requirements of this article and applicable technical codes.
D.
Other regulations.
(1)
No sign shall be illuminated between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., unless the business or establishment is open to the public during these hours, in which case the sign may be kept illuminated until the business is closed to the public. Signs advertising businesses or establishments in the CRO Zone or along Route 38 shall be exempt from this requirement as long as the signs are within current sign regulations.
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89]
(2)
Official governmental signs which can be regulated by this article shall conform to the zone in which they are placed.
(3)
There shall be no more than four signs per business establishment with the exception of:
(a)
Official governmental signs.
(b)
Temporary signs.
(c)
No-trespassing, -fishing and/or -hunting signs.
(d)
Functional signs.
(4)
No sign shall be placed in such a position that it will cause danger to traffic on a street or which is entering a street, by obscuring the view of traffic on either street. In no case shall any sign, other than an official sign, be erected within the right-of-way of any street.
(5)
No sign shall be erected containing information on it which states or implies that a property may be used for any purpose not permitted under the provision of the Township Zoning Ordinance.
E.
(Reserved)[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Subsection E, regarding political signs, as amended 6-11-1990 by Ord. No. 1532-90, was repealed 7-26-2004 by Ord. No. 20-2004. See now § 180-80.1C.
F.
Illuminated signs. Illuminated signs shall be arranged to reflect the light and glare away from adjoining lots and streets. No signs shall be permitted with a beam, beacon or flashing illumination. All signs lighted exteriorly shall be shielded from adjoining lots, streets, sidewalks and interior drives. All lights shall be either shielded or shall have a translucent fixture to reduce off-site effects.
G.
Service stations shall be permitted the following signs:
[Amended 11-18-1996 by Ord. No. 1795-96]
(1)
One externally lit freestanding sign to advertise the name of the station and/or the products sold on the premises, including any special company or brand name, insignia or emblem, provided that such sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area.
(2)
A six-square-foot sign for the purpose of advertising the gasoline price shall be permitted if attached to the approved freestanding sign structure located on the site.
(3)
One externally lit wall sign, not exceeding 24 square feet, may be located on each face of the building which fronts on a public street.
(4)
Service stations shall also be permitted a four-square-foot, nonilluminated service bay sign for each service bay located on the property.
H.
Prohibited signs. All signs which are not permitted by this article are prohibited with the following signs specifically prohibited:
(1)
Any sign which may obstruct a fire escape, window, door or opening used as a means of ingress or egress or interfere with an opening required for ventilation.
(2)
A flashing, blinking, twinkling, animated or projected sign of any type which presents illusion of movement. Digital and analog time and temperature displays are permitted.
(3)
Any sign whose form, character or shape may confuse or dangerously distract the attention of the operator of a motor vehicle.
(4)
Signs which in any way simulate official, functional, directional or warning signs erected or maintained by the State of New Jersey, county or municipality, any railroad, public utility or similar agency concerned with the protection of public health and safety.
(5)
Off-site signs.
(6)
Mobile signs.
(7)
Vehicular signs.
(8)
Any sign attached to or painted on trees, fences, utility poles, rocks, curbs, walks, lamps, water towers, hydrants, benches or bridges. This does not apply to no-trespassing, no-fishing, and/or no-hunting signs and warning signs.
(9)
It is the goal of this subsection to limit the use of all permanent signs to identification or directional purposes only. Identification signs shall allow only the principal name of the establishment or proprietor, phone number and a brief description of the principal goods or services offered.
[Amended 5-10-1993 by Ord. No. 1660-93]
(10)
Any signs which, applying contemporary community standards, have a dominant theme or purpose and appeal to prurient interest.
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89]
(11)
Signs advertising an establishment or use no longer in existence.
(12)
Changeable copy signs unless specifically allowed under § 180-80.4C.
(13)
Pennants, banners, streamers and all other fluttering, spinning or similar-type signs and advertising devices, except for national flags and flags of political subdivisions of the United States, and except for flags of bona fide civic, charitable, fraternal and welfare organizations during nationally recognized holiday periods or during a special civic event except as otherwise permitted in this article.
(14)
Home occupation signs, other than for such specific uses as permitted by the Zoning Ordinance.
(15)
A- or sandwich-type signs on sidewalks or other temporary signs on sidewalks.
(16)
Roof signs.
(17)
Interior or exterior lights that surround windows and doorways, except for a fifty-day period during the holiday season, November through January.
[Added 2-28-1994 by Ord. No. 1698-94]
(18)
Billboard signs.
[Added 5-4-2015 by Ord. No. 5-2015]
I.
[2] Banners. No sign, other than an official traffic sign, shall be erected within the lines of any street unless specifically authorized by other ordinances or regulations of the Township of Moorestown, except that permits for installation and maintenance of banners over Township streets, for a maximum of 15 days where property along at least one side of the street is zoned commercial, may be issued by the Zoning Officer, subject to the following conditions:
[Amended 4-8-1991 by Ord. No. 1571-91]
(1)
The applicant has submitted a certificate of liability insurance with limits equaling or exceeding $50,000.
(2)
The Township is named as an additional insured in the above certificate.
(3)
Said banner shall not contain any lights, flags, pennants, streamers or other fluttering or spinning types of attachments.
(4)
The applicant shall provide for the removal of the banner immediately upon the expiration of the permit. Failure of the applicant to remove the banner shall constitute abandonment of the banner. Said applicant shall be liable for the cost the Township incurs in removing the banner and shall forfeit the privilege of obtaining any further banner permits unless outstanding removal costs are paid and removal costs for future banners are prepaid.
[Amended 2-14-1994 by Ord. No. 1694-94]
(5)
Said banner shall be installed and maintained at a height of not less than 14 feet above the crown of the roadway under the banner.
(6)
The applicant is a Moorestown-based, nonprofit, philanthropic, charitable or civic organization.
(7)
The wording on the banner is related to promoting a Moorestown activity which will take place in Moorestown or adjacent communities sponsored by the applicant.
(8)
The wording and/or symbols on the banner shall not indicate commercial endorsement or sponsorship.
(9)
The wording on the banner shall exactly reproduce the wording shown on the banner application and permit.
[2]
Editor's Note: Former § 180-80.3I, Temporary signs, amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89, was repealed 1-26-1998 by Ord. No. 1844-98; said Ord. No. 1844-98 also redesignated former § 180-80.3J, Banners, as § 180-80.3I.
§ 180-80.4 Signs in residential districts.
In R-1, R-1-A, R-2 and R-3 Residential Districts, the following types of signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
A.
One (1) wall and one (1) ground sign not exceeding one (1) square foot each in area, stating only the name and profession of the occupant or the street address on the premises.
[Amended 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022]
B.
Signs erected by the state, municipal, county or federal government as may be deemed necessary for their respective functions.
C.
Identification signs for churches, hospitals, schools, playgrounds, parks and public utility installations shall be permitted one (1) freestanding sign not to exceed sixteen (16) square feet in an area. In addition, a changeable copy sign not exceeding eight (8) square feet in area and six (6) feet in height shall also be permitted.
[Amended 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022]
D.
Real estate sale or rental signs.
E.
Construction, building renovation and home improvement signs.
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89; 4-8-1991 by Ord. No. 1571-91; 11-18-1996 by Ord. No. 1795-96; 1-26-1998 by Ord. No. 1844-98]
F.
Temporary signs in accord with the requirements of § 180-80.1A(6) above.
[Amended 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022]
G.
Signs advertising the sale of products grown on the premises.
H.
Signs prohibiting or controlling trespassing, fishing and/or hunting.
I.
Signs indicating the name of a particular organization, farm or estate, provided that the area shall not exceed six (6) square feet.
[Amended 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022]
§ 180-80.5 Signs in RLC Residence-Limited Commercial Districts.
In the RLC Districts, the following types of signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
A.
All signs permitted by this article in the residential districts for residential uses.
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89]
B.
One freestanding or one wall-mounted identification sign, not exceeding 12 square feet in area or six feet in height for a freestanding sign, relating to the use conducted on the same premises.
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89]
C.
Individual name plates, not exceeding one square foot in area, indicating the name and profession or business of each of the occupants, may be erected flat against the wall of the building.
§ 180-80.6 Signs in the Town Center.
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89; 5-10-1993 by Ord. No. 1660-93; 2-28-1994 by Ord. No. 1700-94; 6-11-2001 by Ord. No. 1964-01; 6-11-2001 by Ord. No. 1965-01; 7-9-2007 by Ord. No. 21-2007; 9-12-2022 by Ord. No. 18-2022; 12-15-2025 by Ord. No. 25-2025]
A.
The Town Center is a district containing the following zoning districts: RTC-1 and RTC-2 Residence Town Center; CIO Commercial-Institutional Office; CRO Commercial-Retail Office; and CHS Commercial-Highway Service.
B.
In addition to conforming to the regulations contained in this chapter, approval for the construction, alteration, erection or display of any sign within the Town Center shall be subject to Appearance Committee review and recommendation. The Planning Board shall refer the plans to the Appearance Committee and take its comments under consideration while conducting the review of the proposed plans as they relate to the appearance, lettering, color, size, position, method of attachment, texture of materials and design in order to establish that the proposed sign conforms to the historical and districtive character of the Town Center and does not injuriously affect the same or impair the value of the adjoining properties, the district in general or those buildings having architectural and historical worth in the immediate area.
C.
All applications for sign permits within the Town Center shall be either submitted directly to the Appearance Committee or forwarded to the same by the Zoning Officer before a permit may be issued. Such application shall be accompanied by sketches and drawings showing details of construction, support and attachment and shall delineate the size, shape, design, coloring, lettering, lighting and position in relation to the building from or upon which it shall be displayed.
D.
No sign in the Town Center shall be placed on a building or structure in such a way as to obscure or mar any architectural feature deemed to be important to the architectural integrity of the building or structure.
E.
In addition to those signs which are prohibited generally in § 180-80.3H, internally illuminated and gas-filled or illuminated tubing, such as neon, signs are prohibited in all Town Center Zones.
F.
In the RTC Residence Town Center Zones, signs permitted by this chapter in residential districts shall be permitted.
G.
In the CIO Commercial-Institutional Office Zones, the following signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
(1)
All signs permitted by this chapter in the RTC Residence Town Center Zones.
(2)
One wall-mounted or freestanding identification sign, not exceeding 12 square feet in area, relating to the use conducted on the same premises.
(3)
Individual nameplates, not exceeding one square foot in area, indicating the name and profession or business of each of the occupants, may be erected flat against the wall of the building.
(4)
A maximum of two directional signs, each not to exceed 1.5 square feet in area, are permitted. The length of each sign shall be not less than two times the height of the sign. The overall height of each sign and support structure shall not exceed three feet. A zoning permit shall be obtained for the sign, in which case, the Zoning Officer shall only issue a permit upon finding compliance with the standards as described above by the Appearance Committee.
H.
In the CRO Commercial-Retail Office and CHS Commercial-Highway Service Zones, the following signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
(1)
All signs permitted by this chapter in the CIO Commercial-Institutional Office Zone.
(2)
One wall sign, not exceeding 24 square feet, for each business use to which the property is devoted may be located on each face of the building which fronts on a street or a parking area from which there is public access to the interior of the building. The total area of all wall signs shall not exceed 10% of the area of the face on which the sign is displayed. In determining the area of the wall, the area of windows, doors and other apertures through the wall shall be included.
(a)
For restaurants, no more than two wall signs, not exceeding a total cumulative area of 48 square feet, may be located on the building facing the public streets. The total area of these wall signs shall not exceed 10% of the area of the face on which the signs are displayed. In determining the area of the wall, the area of windows, doors and other apertures through the wall shall be included.
(b)
For any retail store fronts with frontage of greater than 45 feet, no more than two wall signs, not exceeding a total cumulative area of 48 square feet, may be located on the building facing the public streets. The total area of these wall signs shall not exceed 10% of the area of the face on which the signs are displayed. In determining the area of the wall, the area of windows, doors and other apertures through the wall shall be included.
(3)
One freestanding sign, not exceeding 12 square feet and six feet in height, may be erected per lot. In the case of a single business use located on multiple lots, only one freestanding sign, not exceeding 12 square feet and six feet in height, shall be permitted.
(4)
Window signs.
(a)
Two business signs may be painted on the windows and/or doors of each business bearing the name, street number and/or type of business of the principal occupant, provided that there shall be no more than one such sign on each window or door and the total area of all such signs shall not exceed 25% per storefront glass.
(b)
Window signs designed to promote the sale of any article or business activity shall not exceed in total sign area 25% of the total window area of the first floor or street level of the building involved. Each individual window sign shall not exceed six square feet in area. Such signs shall not remain in a window longer than 30 continuous days. They shall be removed within two days after the event or activity has taken place. No fee or permit shall be required.
(5)
For retail uses located in the CRO Zone, one temporary, nonilluminated temporary exterior advertising sign, which does not have any parts or features attached to it that move or give the illusion of movement, nor produce any sound, shall be permitted on the property on which the retail business is operated. The temporary exterior advertising sign (herein referred to as "the sign") shall not be located in a public right-of-way, and shall be located so as to not impair pedestrian or vehicular traffic or so as to block or obstruct any required fire or other exit. The sign shall be of sufficiently stable construction so as to withstand windy conditions, not create a hazard to pedestrians, and shall be kept in good physical condition at all times. The sign may be displayed during business hours only, but in no case more than 12 hours per day. The sign shall be made of wood or framed in wood, and shall not exceed five feet in height, and shall not exceed two feet in width. The sign may be two-sided, in which case neither side shall exceed five square feet in area. If the sign is one-sided, hand-lettered and includes a handcrafted design of the product or service, the sign may be up to nine square feet. A zoning permit shall be obtained for the sign, in which case, the Zoning Officer shall only issue a permit upon a finding of compliance with the standards described above by the Appearance Committee, if applicable. Any and all temporary exterior advertising signs in use prior to the effective date of this amendment are illegal and the retail user shall comply with the provisions hereof and shall seek a permit for such sign from the Zoning Officer.
§ 180-80.7 Signs in C Commercial District.
[Amended 2-28-1994 by Ord. No. 1700-94]
In the C Commercial Districts, the following types of signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
A.
All signs permitted by this article in residential districts.
B.
One wall sign, not exceeding 24 square feet, for each business.
[Amended 11-18-1996 by Ord. No. 1795-96]
C.
One freestanding sign, not exceeding 12 square feet and 10 feet in height, may be erected per lot.
[Amended 11-18-1996 by Ord. No. 1795-96]
D.
Window signs are permitted, provided that they do not exceed 10% of the glass area of any required entrance or exit door or 25% of the total window area of the first floor or street level of the building involved and subject to the overall limitation of the area of signs on any one facade as is set forth above.
§ 180-80.8 Signs in SRC Specially Restricted Commercial and Business Park Zoning Districts.
[Amended 11-14-1994 by Ord. No. 1728-94; 1-26-1998 by Ord. No. 1844-98; 4-27-2015 by Ord. No. 6-2015; 5-10-2021 by Ord. No. 11-2021]
In SRC Specially Restricted Commercial Districts and the Business Park Districts BP-1 and BP-2, the following types of signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
A.
All signs permitted by this chapter in the C Commercial Districts, except in shopping centers and in planned industrial or office building developments.
B.
In shopping centers and in planned industrial or office building developments, the following signs are permitted:
(1)
One freestanding sign identifying or advertising the shopping center or development as an entity, provided that the area of the sign does not exceed 100 square feet or 10 feet high in an industrial or office building development or 200 square feet or 20 feet high in a shopping center. The design and location of such sign shall be subject to approval by the Planning Board or the Board of Adjustment at the time of site plan review, but in no case shall such sign be located in the front half of the required front yard.
(2)
One freestanding sign for each lot or for each main building identifying the name of the enterprise or building located thereon. The total area on one side of such sign shall not exceed 16 square feet, and the overall height of such sign shall not exceed six feet. The design and location of such signs shall be subject to approval by the Planning Board or the Board of Adjustment at the time of site plan review, but in no case shall such signs be located in the front half of the required front yard.
(3)
Applicable only to the Business Park Districts, (SRC-1) Specially Restricted Commercial District One and (SRC-2) Specially Restricted Commercial District Two. Only signs relating to an individual enterprise conducted within an industrial or office building development may be erected as follows:
(a)
One sign may be located on each outside or exterior face of the building housing the enterprise, provided that the total area of one side of any such sign shall not exceed whichever is the smaller of the following: an area equal to or less than 15% of the principal facade area (including window and door area) on which they are displayed; or a maximum of 100 square feet. In no case shall the overall sign height exceed 45 feet, nor shall the area on any one side of the sign exceed 100 square feet without bulk variance relief from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
(4)
Applicable to the Specially Restricted Commercial District only, signs relating to an individual enterprise conducted within a shopping center or mall may be erected as follows:
(a)
One sign may be located on each outside or exterior face of the building housing the enterprise, provided that the total area of any one side of any such sign shall not exceed whichever is the smaller of the following: an area equal to or less than 15% of the principal facade area (including window and door area) on which they are displayed; or a maximum of 150 square feet. In no case shall the overall sign height exceed 45 feet, nor shall the area on any one side of the sign exceed 150 square feet without bulk variance relief from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
C.
Multiple-occupancy office building signs as follows, provided that each of the uses for which a sign is sought shall first have been authorized by a certificate of conformity approved by the Planning Board:
(1)
One freestanding sign identifying the multiple-occupancy building as an entity, with a directory sign identifying the occupants thereof, provided that the area of any one side of such sign shall not exceed 32 square feet, nor shall the sign exceed 10 feet in height or be located in any required side yard.
(2)
One sign relating to each of the individual enterprises located within the multiple-occupancy building may be located on each face of the building which fronts on a street, provided that the area of any one side of such sign shall not exceed 20 square feet; and further provided that the total area of all such signs shall not exceed 15% of all of the area of the wall on which the signs are displayed. In determining the area of the wall, the area of windows and doors through the wall shall be included. On each face of a building which does not front on a street, each individual enterprise may erect a directional or nameplate sign not exceeding four square feet in area. Individual enterprise signs on any building shall be generally uniform in size and type and located on a building with a view to achieving maximum visual attractiveness.
§ 180-80.9 Conformance.
A.
Conformity with article. It is the intent and purpose of this article that as soon as reasonably possible all existing signs not conforming to the provisions of this article be brought into conformity with the provisions hereof or eliminated.
B.
Nonconforming signs. Any sign located within the Township of Moorestown, existing as of the effective date of this article and which does not meet the requirements of this article, shall be considered a legal nonconforming sign. It may continue in use until it loses its legal nonconforming status under this article.
C.
Losing nonconforming status. Any legal nonconforming sign shall immediately lose its status as a legal nonconforming sign upon the occurrence of any of the following events:
(1)
The sign is relettered or altered in any way. (Periodic maintenance of a sign or change in copy of a previously approved changeable copy sign shall not be considered to be an alteration resulting in the loss of legal nonconforming status.)
[Amended 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89]
(2)
The sign is removed or abandoned.
(3)
The sign is damaged in such a way, regardless of the cause of any such damage, that the cost of restoration of the sign would exceed 1/2 of the replacement cost of the sign as of the date of damage.
(4)
The sign is one concerning which the Zoning Officer has given a notice to the owner of the sign and the owner of record of the tax lot, and the owner of the sign or owner of record of the tax lot has failed to correct the condition for which the notice was issued.
(5)
The sign is located on a tax lot, building or storefront for which a sign application under this article has been filed.
(6)
Five years have elapsed from the effective date of this article, as originally passed.
[Amended 2-28-1994 by Ord. No. 1699-94]
(a)
Nonconforming signs in CRO (Commercial-Retail Office) and CHS (Commercial-Highway Service):
[1]
Signs 24 square feet or greater in size shall become conforming by October 1995.
[2]
Signs less than 24 square feet in size shall become conforming by April 1997.
[3]
If any structural or content change is made by an owner to a hanging sign projecting over the Township right-of-way, other than regular maintenance (as determined by the Department of Community Development), prior to April 1, 1995, the resulting sign size shall not exceed 12 square feet. Any change after April 1, 1995, shall result in a sign size no greater than nine square feet.
(b)
This subsection shall not apply to the following:
[1]
All existing signs in the R-1, R-2, R-3, R-1-A, RTC-1, RTC-2, RLC-1 and RLC-2 Residential Zones as of January 1, 1994.
[2]
All existing signs for church, schools, playgrounds and parks.
[3]
All signs reviewed and approved by the Appearance Committee prior to January 1, 1994, that also have a zoning and/or a building permit issued by said date.
[4]
All existing interiorly illuminated signs that comply with the sign ordinance with respect to size and location and all noninteriorly illuminated facade signs (no more than one sign per site).
(7)
Any nonconforming sign now or hereafter existing which no longer advertises a bona fide business conducted or a product sold shall be taken down and removed, including all supporting structures, mounting, brackets, wiring, etc., by the permittee, owner, agent or person having the beneficial use of the building or structure upon which such sign may be found within 10 days after written notification from the Zoning Officer and upon failure to comply with such notice within the time specified in such notice. The Zoning Officer is hereby authorized to cause removal of such sign and any expenses incident thereto shall be paid by the permittee or owner of the building or structure to which such sign is attached.
D.
Appeals.
[Added 11-27-1989 by Ord. No. 1499-89]
(1)
The owner of any nonconforming sign which will lose its nonconforming status under § 180-80.9C(6) of this chapter may file an appeal, with the Township Zoning Officer, who will immediately schedule a hearing before the Appearance Committee.
(2)
The Appearance Committee shall forward a recommendation to the Township Council. The recommendation shall be based on the degree of nonconformity, including size, lighting and number of nonconforming signs and the relationship of the sign to the site and to the streetscape. The Appearance Committee may also consider the age of the sign and the original cost of the sign. The recommendation may be for denial of the appeal; approval, which would allow the sign to permanently remain; or partial approval, whereby the sign would be allowed to remain for an additional period of time. The Appearance Committee shall specify its reasons for its recommendation.
(3)
The Township Council shall, by resolution adopted at a public meeting, approve, deny or modify the recommendation of the Appearance Committee. The decision of the Township Council shall be considered as final for purposes of nonconformity status.
(4)
No appeals shall be filed under this subsection until June 1993.
§ 180-80.10 Violations and penalties.
[Amended 6-11-1990 by Ord. No. 1532-90]
A.
The owner and/or tenant of the premises and the owner and or erector of the sign shall be held responsible for any violation of these regulations. Where a sign has been erected in accordance with the regulations, the sign company shall be relieved of further responsibility under these regulations after a certificate of occupancy has been issued for the sign by the Construction Official.
B.
Any sign erected or maintained in conflict with the regulations of this article shall be removed or corrected within five days of the written notice of violation from the Township Zoning Officer.
C.
Any political candidate who, directly or indirectly by his agent, representative or campaign official, permits a violation of this article for 72 hours after notification to said political candidate, his agent, representative or campaign official to remove the same shall be subject to a fine not exceeding $150. The erection, posting and placing of each individual political sign shall constitute a separate offense.
