Mount Pocono City Zoning Code
ARTICLE XI
Signs
§ 215-78 Statement of purpose, intent, and jurisdiction.
Signs constitute a separate and distinct use of the premises upon which they are placed and also affect the use of adjacent roads, streets, walkways and other properties. The provisions of this Sign Ordinance are made to establish reasonable and objective regulations for all signs in this municipality which are visible to the public, in order to protect the general public health, safety, welfare, convenience and aesthetics. This chapter is also intended to serve the public's need to be given helpful directions and to be informed of available products, businesses and services. All signs in the Borough of Mount Pocono that are visible to the public shall be subject to this chapter.
§ 215-79 Definitions.
A. FACADE GROSS SURFACE AREA PLANNED DEVELOPMENT, COMMERCIAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT, INDUSTRIAL PUBLIC RESORT/COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ROOF ROOF EAVES ROOFLINE ROOF RIDGE ROOF STRUCTURE SIGN
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
Any structure or part of a structure attached to, or otherwise mounted parallel to, a wall or other vertical part of the structure.
The entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of a single face enclosing the extreme limits of characters, lettering, illustrations, ornamentation or other figures, together with any other material, design or color forming an integral part of the display, including the frame.
A contiguous area of land planned, developed, operated, and maintained as a single entity and containing one or more structures with appurtenant common areas to accommodate office, retail, and commercial uses, and other uses incidental and accessory to the commercial uses.
[Added 12-6-2010 by Ord. No. 4-2010]
A contiguous area of land planned, developed, operated, and maintained as a single entity and containing one or more structures with appurtenant common areas to accommodate industrial, manufacturing, warehousing, office, retail, and commercial uses, and other uses incidental and accessory to the predominant allowed uses.
[Added 12-6-2010 by Ord. No. 4-2010]
The members of the community as a whole or any particular part of the community.
A building or group of buildings located on a lot containing 10 acres or more. A resort/community development combines nonpermanent lodging with services, including food, retail sale of commodities, recreation and other amenities. A resort/community development may temporarily house owners and other residents who do not have full ownership of residential units, full-fledged members and their guests.
The roof slab or deck with its supporting members, not including vertical supports.
The projecting overhang at the lower edge of a roof.
The top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is higher, but excluding any mansards, cupolas, pylons, chimneys or any minor projections.
The upper and lower roof ridges are the horizontal lines formed by the juncture of two sloping planes formed by the surfaces of a roof as indicated in Figures 1-1and 1-2.[1]
An enclosed structure on or above the roof of any part of a building.
A name, identification, description, emblem, display or device which is affixed to, printed on, or represented directly or indirectly upon a building, structure, or parcel of land which is illuminated or nonilluminated, visible or intended to be visible from any public place, and which directs or calls attention to a person, place, product, institution, business, organization, activity or service. Signs shall also include any permanently installed or situated merchandise, including any banner, pennant, placard, statue, vehicle or temporary sign.
B. ABANDONED SIGN AMENITY IDENTIFICATION SIGN AWNING SIGN
BANNER SIGN
BULLETIN BOARD CANOPY SIGN
CHANGEABLE SIGN
CONSTRUCTION SIGN DIRECTIONAL/INFORMATIONAL SIGN DIRECTORY SIGN
FLASHING SIGN FREESTANDING SIGN
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY UNIT IDENTIFICATION SIGN ILLEGAL SIGN ILLUMINATED SIGN INFORMATIONAL SIGN INSTRUCTIONAL SIGN
MARQUEE SIGN MONUMENT SIGN NONCONFORMING SIGN OFF-PREMISES SIGN ON-PREMISES SIGN PERSONAL SIGN PLAZA SIGN POLE SIGN POLITICAL SIGN POLITICAL YARD SIGN PORTABLE SIGN
PROJECTING SIGN
PYLON SIGN REAL ESTATE SIGN ROOF SIGN
TEMPORARY SIGN WALL/WINDOW SIGN
WARNING SIGN WINDOW SIGN, ACCESSORY
Certain categories of signs are defined below. Other categories of signs are defined elsewhere in this chapter.
A sign located on a property which is vacant and/or unoccupied for a period of 90 days; a sign which is damaged, in disrepair, or vandalized and not repaired within 90 days; and a sign which contains an outdated message for a period exceeding 30 days.
A sign which directs attention to a resort/community, commodity, service, recreational area or other amenity.
A sign with its copy on a shelter made of any nonrigid material, such as fabric or flexible plastic, that is supported by or stretched over a frame and attached to an exterior wall of a building or other structure.
 Awning Sign |
A sign with its copy on nonrigid material, such as cloth, plastic, fabric or paper. with no supporting framework.
 Banner Sign |
A particular type of changeable copy sign that displays copy in a casement made of glass, Plexiglas or other materials.
A sign on a rigid multisided structure attached to a building or on any other freestanding structure that may have a roof with support but no walls.
 Canopy Sign on Freestanding Canopy |
A sign that is designed so that its characters, letters, illustrations or other content can be changed, altered or rearranged without physically altering the permanent physical face or surface of the sign. (See §§ 215-83B and 215-83C for prohibition of animated and moving signs and flashing and message signs.
[Amended 6-21-2010 by Ord. No. 3-2010]
 Changeable Sign |
A temporary sign identifying individuals or companies involved in design, construction, wrecking, financing or development work, when placed upon the premises where that work is underway but only for the duration of the work.
An on-premises sign for the convenience of the public, giving directions, instructions, facility information or other assistance around a site, such as location of exits, entrances, parking lots, amenities and housing units, to encourage proper circulation. It may contain the logo of an enterprise but no other advertising copy.
A sign that displays the names and/or addresses of the establishments, housing units, amenities or uses of a building or group of buildings.
 Directory Sign |
Any sign that has intermittent or changing lighting or illumination of a duration less than 30 seconds shall be deemed a flashing sign.
The general term for any sign that is permanently affixed to the ground and on a foundation. It is supported on a foundation by one or more upright poles or braces and is not attached to a building or any other structure.
 Common Freestanding Sign Types |
A sign within a commercial resort community or common interest realty community (e.g., condo, co-op or planned community) identifying individual units as well as groupings of units within the community.
A sign that does not meet the requirements of this chapter or which is not a registered nonconforming sign. This specifically includes a sign that remains standing when the time limits set by the permit are exceeded and any sign not removed after notification from the Borough's Zoning Officer to remove the sign.
A sign illuminated in any manner by an artificial light source, whether internally or externally lighted, including but not limited to neon signs and any sign that has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines illuminated by artificial lighting.
Public or private directional, street or traffic signs, address numbers, names of buildings, rooms and other similar signs.
A sign that provides direction or instruction to guide persons to facilities intended to serve the public (e.g., rest rooms, public telephones, public walkways, parking areas, commercial resort/community amenities, maps, housing units or transportation schedules).
 Instructional Sign |
Any sign attached to a covered structure projecting from and supported by a building with independent roof and drainage provisions erected over a doorway or doorways as protection against the weather.
A freestanding sign with a base affixed to the ground where the length of the base is at least 2/3 the horizontal length of the monument.
A sign that met all legal requirements when constructed but is not in compliance with current sign regulations. A registered nonconforming sign is not an illegal sign.
Sign, graphic or a display for commercial, industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes, promoting products, uses or services conducted, sold or offered somewhere other than upon the same premises where the sign is located and whose purpose is to sell or identify a product, service or activity. In the context of this subsection, the word "premises" shall be interpreted as being a separate tract or parcel of land that has been or may be conveyed by deed or has otherwise been specified as a separate lot on an approved land development plan.
Sign, graphic or a display for commercial, industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes, promoting products, uses or services conducted, sold or offered upon the same premises where the sign is located and whose purpose is to sell or identify a product, service or activity. In the context of this subsection, the word premises shall be interpreted as being a separate tract or parcel of land that has been or may be conveyed by deed or has otherwise been specified as a separate lot on an approved land development plan.
A sign including nameplates, home occupation signs and other signs of a similar nature.
A one- or two-sided structure displaying smaller signs, each of equal size.
A freestanding sign with a base supported from the ground by a pole or a similar support structure of narrow width.
A temporary sign larger than four square feet identifying, either singly or combined, a political candidate, slate of candidates, issue or party. These signs are used or intended to be used for the display of any announcement, advertisement or notice of any individual candidate or slate of candidates for any public office or similar political purposes.
A temporary political sign four square feet or smaller.
Sign, graphic or a display for commercial, industrial, institutional, service, entertainment or informational purposes which can be readily moved from place to place and which is not affixed to a building, to another permanent structure or to the ground.
 Portable Sign |
A sign which is supported by an exterior wall of a building or other structure and which is constructed and displayed perpendicular to the face of the building or other structure so that both sides of the sign are visible.
 Projecting Sign |
A freestanding sign with a base affixed to the ground where the width of the base is not more than half the width of the sign face. (See figure above of Common Freestanding Sign Types.)
A temporary sign that is used to offer for sale, lease or rent the premises upon which the sign is placed.
A sign which is erected, constructed and maintained on or above the roof of a building.
 Comparison-Roof and Fascia Signs |
A sign displayed for a fixed, terminable length of time. Temporary signs must be removed after the temporary purpose has been served. Included are for sale, lease or rent signs, political signs, service signs, special event signs, construction signs, directional signs to special or temporary events and signs of a similar nature.
A sign painted on or attached to a wall or window (excluding permitted accessory window signs) of a building or other structure and which is mounted parallel to the surface so that only one side is visible to the public.
[Amended 6-21-2010 by Ord. No. 3-2010]
 Wall Signs |
A sign containing no advertising material but which warns the public of the existence of danger.
Any poster, cut-out letters, painted text or graphics, or other text or visual presentation affixed to or placed behind a window pane which is intended to be read from the exterior of the building and which is not an on-premises sign permitted by § 215-87.
[Added 6-21-2010 by Ord. No. 3-2010]
 Sign Comparison |
§ 215-80 Administration.
The administrator of this chapter shall be the Borough's Zoning Officer who shall have the responsibility and authority to administer and enforce all provisions of this chapter, other than those provisions with powers specifically reserved to the Borough Council or the Borough's Zoning Hearing Board.
§ 215-81 Permit procedures.
No sign, except as provided by § 215-82 (Exempt signs) and § 215-100 (Nonconforming signs), shall be erected, displayed, altered, relocated or replaced until the municipality issues a sign permit.
A.
Permit application. An application for a sign permit shall be submitted on a form provided by the Borough and completed as required. At a minimum, the application shall have attached to it the following information in either written or graphic form:
(1)
Location of the sign on the premises in relation to lot lines, buildings, sidewalks, streets, public rights-of-way and street intersections within 300 feet of the proposed sign.
(2)
Type of sign (e.g., freestanding, pole, monument, wall) and a general description of structural design and construction materials.
(3)
A drawing of the proposed sign containing specifications showing the height, perimeter, area, dimensions, type of lettering proposed, means of support, method of illumination and any other significant characteristics.
(4)
Any other information requested by the Zoning Officer in order to carry out the purpose and intent of this chapter.
(5)
The required sign permit fee as established by resolution of the Borough Council. Permit fees will cover the cost of administering this chapter for compliance with its purpose.
(6)
A landscaping plan for any freestanding sign shall be created as follows:
(a)
A landscaped island containing shrubs and/or flowers extending not less than three feet from all sides of the sign, but in no case less than 32 square feet in total area, and a minimum of one foot in height is required.
[Amended 12-6-2010 by Ord. No. 4-2010]
(b)
The island shall be formed from materials such as, but not limited to, stone, brick or landscape timbers. The area of the island shall be maintained to keep it free of weeds, debris and brush.
(c)
A sketch of the sign and island shall be submitted with the sign permit application for review and approval by the Zoning Officer.
B.
Permit review and action. The Borough's Zoning Officer shall review the sign permit application and issue or deny the permit in conformance with the following standards:
(1)
Official date. The official date of submission shall be the day the Zoning Officer determines that the completed application with all required or necessary data has been properly prepared and submitted.
(2)
Time to decide. The Zoning Officer shall determine whether the proposed sign will or will not be in compliance with the requirements of this chapter and shall, within 30 days of the official date of submission, issue or deny the sign permit.
(3)
Photograph. When the sign has been completed, the applicant shall photograph the completed sign and forward the photograph to the Zoning Officer. The Zoning Officer shall then inspect the sign.
(4)
Inspection for compliance. The Zoning Officer, or a designee, shall perform a final inspection after installation of any approved sign. The Zoning Officer will then complete the Borough's portion of the sign application and forward the completed application form to the applicant. The final dimensions of the sign will be noted by the Zoning Officer, either on the back of the photograph of the sign or at any other appropriate place, which information shall be filed at the Borough's offices along with the completed application.
(5)
Discrepancies. Any discrepancies between any sign as approved and the sign as constructed shall be identified in writing by the Zoning Officer and may result in the halt of construction and correction of the discrepancy. If the discrepancy is not corrected within 20 days after written notice, the sign may be ordered removed by the Zoning Officer.
(6)
Complaints. The Zoning Officer shall investigate any complaints of violations of these regulations and may revoke any permit if there is any violation of these regulations or if there was any misrepresentation of any material fact in either the sign permit application or the plans.
(7)
Biennial inspection. The Zoning Officer, or a designee, shall complete a biennial inspection of all regulated signs on or about the anniversary date of the issuance of the permit for each sign and shall determine if the sign is in conformance with this article. If any sign is not in conformance, the Zoning Officer will revoke the permit for that sign and may remove, or order the removal of, that sign at the expense of the owner or lessee.
(8)
Annual license fee. An annual license fee shall be paid in accordance with any resolution of the Borough Council establishing the annual license fee schedule.
(9)
Penalty fee. If the annual license fee is paid later than 40 days from the date of the invoice requesting payment, a penalty fee equal to 50% of the cost of the annual license fee shall be assessed. At the end of 90 days, the unpaid annual license fee will bear interest at 18% APR. If the annual license fee has not been paid at the end of 120 days from the date of the invoice, the applicable sign will be ordered removed by the Zoning Officer with the cost of removal to be borne by its owner or the landowner.
(10)
Revocation of permit. All rights and privileges acquired under the provisions of this chapter are mere licenses and, as such, are revocable for cause by the Zoning Officer. All permits issued pursuant to this article are hereby subject to this provision.
(11)
Registration of signs. All signs must be registered with the Borough. Signs that are certified as nonconforming and are registered under this chapter may continue to be displayed, replaced or altered to conform with this chapter. All signs erected after the effective date of this chapter must comply with it. Appropriate notice will be provided to all existing sign owners upon the adoption of this chapter.
(12)
Information to be affixed on signs. All signs erected after the effective date of this chapter shall have the following information permanently affixed in a conspicuous place:
(13)
Violations. Any sign that has not been certified and registered as nonconforming or that has not received a permit from the Zoning Officer within one year of the effective date of this chapter shall be deemed to be in violation of these regulations and shall be ordered removed by the Zoning Officer with the cost of removal to be borne by its owner or the landowner.
C.
Expiration of sign permit.
(1)
If the sign authorized by any sign permit has not been erected or completed within 120 days from the date of issuance of that permit, the sign permit shall be deemed expired.
(2)
An expired sign permit may be renewed within 30 days from the expiration date for good cause shown and upon payment of a permit extension fee as established by resolution of the Borough Council.
D.
Revocation of a sign permit. The Zoning Officer shall revoke any sign permit if the sign, whether new or preexisting, is moved or otherwise altered either intentionally or by natural forces in a manner which causes the sign not to be in conformity with this chapter. Signs must be properly maintained, properly painted and be kept free from all hazards, including but not limited to faulty wiring, loose fastenings, being in an unsafe condition or detrimental to public health, safety or general welfare. In the event of a violation of any of the foregoing provisions, the Zoning Officer shall give written notice specifying the violation to the current owner of the sign and the current owner of the land upon which the sign is erected to conform or to remove the sign. The sign shall be made to conform to the permit requirements within 30 days from the date of the notice, or the Zoning Officer shall revoke the sign permit and the subject sign shall be removed by the sign owner or the landowner.
E.
Removal of the violating sign. After issuing an enforcement notice that complies with the Municipalities Planning Code § 616.1, as amended, the Zoning Officer shall have the power to remove, cause to be removed, or order the removal of, signs that are in violation of this chapter. The Zoning Officer has the option of waiving the removal of a sign, if the business is for sale. The removal will be completed at the expense of the sign's owner or the landowner, or both. Removal shall take place in the following instances:
(1)
When any sign constructed after the adoption of this chapter or any amendment to it is not in conformance with the provisions of this chapter.
(2)
When the Zoning Officer finds a sign which presents immediate peril to persons or property.
(3)
When any sign, whether existing on or erected on or after the effective date of this chapter, is declared obsolete for any of the following reasons:
(a)
Any directional or off-premises sign which refers or pertains to a business or facility, the affairs of which are discontinued for a period of six months or more.
(b)
Any sign which pertains to a time, event or purpose which no longer exists or applies.
(c)
On-premises signs for any business or facility which has been vacant, unoccupied or not actively offered for sale for a period of six months or more.
(4)
Any sign for which the annual license fee has not been paid within 120 days from the date of the invoice requesting payment.
§ 215-82 Exempt signs.
Sign permits shall not be required for the following:
A.
Decals. Decals affixed to windows or door glass panels, such as those indicating membership in a business group or identifying credit cards accepted at the establishment.
B.
Flags, emblems and insignia of government agencies, religious, charitable, public or nonprofit organizations. These types of signs are exempt from permit requirements but are subject to the following requirements:
(1)
No single flag that is flown shall exceed 40 square feet in area and no single property shall fly more than three flags.
(2)
If the total area of flags that are flown exceeds 72 square feet, the excess area shall be included in the on-premises freestanding sign area calculations for that property. See § 215-87.
(3)
Flagpoles shall not exceed 40 feet in height.
(4)
Wall-mounted flags, emblems, insignias or logos shall be limited to one per property and shall not exceed 40 square feet in area.
C.
Garage or yard sale signs. Signs advertising garage sales or yard sales are permitted, provided that no sign shall exceed four square feet in area and is not erected more than four days prior to the event. One yard sale sign shall be allowed on-premises. All signs must be removed one day after the close of the garage or yard sale.
D.
Handicapped parking space. Signs not exceeding two square feet in area reserving parking for handicapped individuals.
E.
Name and address. Up to two signs containing the address and the number and/or name of occupants of the premises that do not exceed two square feet in area per side and do not include any commercial advertising or other identification.
F.
Private drive signs. On-premises private drive signs are limited to one per driveway entrance, not exceeding two square feet in area, with language limited to the words "private drive" and the addresses of any residents using the private driveway.
G.
Public signs. Signs erected by government agencies or utilities, including traffic, utility, safety, railroad crossing and identification signs for public facilities and any signs erected by the Borough under the direction of the Borough Council.
H.
Security and warning signs. On-premises signs regulating the use of the premises, such as "no trespassing," "no hunting" and "no soliciting," that do not exceed one sign of two square feet in area in residential zones and one sign of five square feet in area in commercial and industrial zones. These limitations shall not apply to the posting of conventional "no trespassing" signs in accordance with state law.
I.
Temporary real estate signs. Display of these signs shall be limited to one per property and six square feet in area in residential zones and 32 square feet in all other zones. These signs must be removed within 30 days of closing or leasing of the property.
J.
Charitable signs. Charitable signs for nonprofit agencies/organizations shall be permitted with the written authorization from the Borough Council and/or its designated representative. These signs may be displayed for a maximum of 14 calendar days. A-frame/wheeled signs or any similar portable signs shall be accepted.
[Added 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
K.
Banners. All banners hung across any state road within the Borough must conform to PennDOT’s specifications and regulations, and they shall only be permitted with the written authorization from the Borough Council and/or its designated representative.
[Added 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
§ 215-83 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are expressly prohibited unless otherwise stated in these regulations:
A.
A-frame or sandwich board sign. A-frame or sandwich board signs shall be permitted as a temporary sign for retail/service/wholesale commercial establishments subject to the following:
[Amended 5-5-2014 by Ord. No. 3-2014]
(1)
Each business establishment shall be limited to one A-frame or sandwich board sign.
(2)
The sign shall be comprised of two boards of durable material with no attachments.
(3)
The sign shall not exceed 10 square feet for each exposed face and shall not exceed 30 inches in width and that the sign shall not have an overall height greater than five feet from ground level.
(4)
The sign shall not be illuminated.
(5)
The sign shall be displayed only during the hours when the establishment is open for business and shall include advertising pertaining only to the establishment of location.
(6)
The sign shall not be placed in such manner as to impede pedestrian or vehicle traffic or the opening of vehicle doors.
(7)
The sign shall be sufficiently secured or weighted to resist overturning.
(9)
The sign shall not be displayed at any time when snow has accumulated on or has not been completely removed from the sidewalk in front of the premises where the sign is permitted.
B.
Animated and moving signs. A sign or other display with either kinetic or illusionary motion, powered by natural, manual, mechanical, electrical or other means, including but not limited to flags having commercial messages, all pennants, banners, streamers, propellers and discs, flashing signs, signs with illuminated elements that are used to simulate the impression of motion and searchlights, video display signs, and Tri-Vision or equivalent signs (e.g., a sign that has rotating, triangular cross-section members which change the sign’s display in its entirety).
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
C.
Flashing and message signs. Any signs that include lights or messages which change, flash, blink or turn on and off intermittently, but specifically excluding time and temperature signs which display no other text or images.
D.
Glaring signs. Signs with light sources or which reflect brightness in a manner which constitutes a hazard or nuisance. This includes signs with fluorescent text, graphics or background, as well as holographic signs.
E.
Inflatable signs and other objects. Signs and other objects that are inflated, including but not limited to balloons. One bouquet of balloons shall be allowed on premises that sell balloons. Balloons shall also be permitted in temporary situations or on special occasions at a residence.
F.
Mirrors. A mirror device used as part of a sign.
G.
Multiple signs. Multiple signs, logos or insignia on a canopy or canopies attached to a building or other structure.
H.
Obstructive signs. A sign or other advertising devise erected or maintained at any road intersection in a manner which obstructs free and clear vision of the intersection.
I.
Posters and handbills. Any signs affixed to any structures, trees or other natural vegetation, rocks or poles.
J.
Roof signs.
(1)
Roof signs are on-premises signs and shall conform to § 215-87 and all other sections of this chapter. Acceptable and prohibited roof signs are illustrated in Figures 1-1 and 1-2. Eaves, lower ridges and upper ridges are illustrated in Figures 1-1 and 1-2.
(a)
With the exception of gambrel, mansard and hip-on-gable roof signs, roof sign height shall not exceed 25% of the vertical height from the roof eaves to the highest roof ridge (see Figures 1-1 and 1-2).
(b)
The height of roof signs on gambrel, mansard and hip-on-gable roofs shall not exceed 25% of the vertical height from the roof eaves to the lower roof ridge (see Figures 1-1 and 1-2).
(c)
Cross-hipped roofs may contain only one sign on the roof area that is parallel to and facing the street (see Figure 1-2).
(d)
Roof signs are prohibited on flat roofs with eaves and on flat roofs with parapets (see Figure 1-2).
(e)
All roof signs shall be affixed to the roof of a structure. The supporting design should be structurally sound, as determined by the Zoning Officer and the Borough Engineer.
 Figure 1-1 (See § 215-83J for roof sign regulations.) |
*Roof sign height shall not exceed 25% of the vertical height from the roof eave to the highest roof ridge [§ 215-83J(1)]. |
**The height of roof signs on gambrel, mansard and hip-on-gable roofs shall not exceed 25% of the vertical height from the roof eave to the lower roof ridge [§ 215-83J(2)]. |
 Figure 1-2 (See 215-83J for roof sign regulations.) |
*Roof signs on cross-hipped roofs may contain only one sign on the roof area that is parallel to and facing the street [§ 215-83J(3)]. |
**Roof signs are prohibited on flat roofs with eaves and on flat roofs with parapets [§ 215-83J(4)]. |
K.
Sign emissions. A sign that emits smoke, visible vapors, particles, sound or odor.
L.
Signs adversely affecting safety: signs that prevent free ingress or egress from any door, window, fire escape or that prevent free access from one part of the roof to any other part; signs of any kind attached to a standpipe or fire escape; open flames used to attract public attention to a place of business or to an advertising sign.
M.
Simulated traffic signs and obstructions. Any sign that may be confused with, or obstruct the view of, any authorized traffic sign or signal, obstruct the sight distance triangle at any road intersection or extend into public rights-of-way.
N.
Strings of light. Any devices including lights that outline property lines, sales areas or any portion of a structure and are intended to advertise or draw attention to a business or commercial activity, except as follows:
O.
Vehicle signs. Any sign displayed on a parked trailer or other vehicle where the primary purpose of the vehicle is to advertise a product, service business or other activity. This regulation, however, shall permit the use of business logos, identification or advertising on vehicles primarily and actively used for business purposes.
P.
Shelters. Signs on shelters bearing advertising messages.
[Added 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
§ 215-84 General standards and criteria for signs.
The regulations in this section specify the area and heights of signs that are allowed within the Borough and require a permit.
A.
Determination of gross sign area. The area of a sign shall include all lettering, wording and accompanying designs and symbols together with the background, whether open or enclosed, on which they are displayed but not including any supporting framework and bracing which are incidental to the display.
(1)
Where the sign consists of individual letters or symbols attached to or painted on a building wall or window, the area shall be considered to be that of the single smallest rectangle or other regular geometric shape which encompasses all of the letters and symbols, including the sign background and frame.
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(2)
In computing square-foot area of a double-faced sign, only one side shall be considered, provided both faces are identical in size, otherwise the larger side shall be considered. If the interior angle formed by the faces of the double-faced sign is greater than 45°, then all sides of the sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area.
B.
Determination of sign height. The height of all signs shall be determined as follows:
(1)
The height of a sign erected within 30 feet of a road right-of-way line shall be measured from the natural grade level of the nearest edge of the travelway of the adjacent road to the top of the sign or sign structure.
(2)
The height of all signs erected beyond 30 feet from a road right-of-way line shall be measured from the natural grade level immediately adjacent to where the sign is erected to the top of the sign or sign structure.
§ 215-85 General requirements.
All signs erected within the Borough shall conform to the applicable building codes and to the following general requirements:
A.
Design. No sign or part of a sign shall contain or consist of banners, posters, pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners or other similar moving, fluttering or revolving devices. None of these devices, nor any strings of light, shall be used for the purpose of advertising or getting attention when not part of a sign, except as follows:
(1)
In the case of a grand opening or similar event, banners, posters, pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners or other similar moving, fluttering or revolving devices may be used for a period of 30 consecutive days upon application for a special sign permit.
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(2)
All temporary signs shall be affixed at all four corners or attached to a stable, flat surface. Temporary signs affixed to buildings shall be considered temporary wall signs and shall conform to the requirements in § 215-89.
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(3)
Banners spanning municipal roadways are prohibited. Banners spanning state roadways require permission from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and issuance of a highway occupancy permit.
B.
Limitation on number of signs. Excluding window decals, permitted accessory window signs and on-premises directional signs, or as may otherwise be modified by other provisions of this Article XI, any business shall be limited to two on-premises exterior signs advertising the business in one of the following combinations:
[Amended 6-21-2010 by Ord. No. 3-2010; 12-6-2010 by Ord. No. 4-2010]
C.
Maintenance. Every sign, including those specifically exempt from permits and permit fees, shall be maintained in good repair and in a safe, clean and attractive condition.
D.
Sign illumination. Illuminated signs or sign-lighting devices shall employ only lights emitting a light of constant intensity, and no sign shall be illuminated by or contain flashing, intermittent rotating or moving light (see § 215-83C). No sign or lighting device shall be placed or directed to permit the beams and illumination to be directed or beamed upon a public road, highway, sidewalk or adjacent premises so as to cause a traffic hazard or nuisance.
E.
Sign materials and construction. All signs shall be constructed of durable materials, designed to withstand expected wind pressures and erected so as not to sustain damage and deterioration from the elements. No sign shall contain iridescent or Day-glo paint.
F.
Street rights-of-way. No sign or advertising device, including projecting signs, shall be located in or project over any road right-of-way nor be located within the clear sight triangle of any intersection, except for any public signs or signs erected by a governmental agency.
G.
Content and protection of first amendment rights. Any sign, display or device allowed under this chapter may contain, in lieu of any other copy, any otherwise lawful noncommercial message that does not direct attention to a business operated for profit or to a commodity or service for sale and complies with all other requirements of this chapter.
§ 215-86 Off-premises signs.
Off-premises signs include signs, graphics and other displays for commercial, industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes, promoting products, uses or services conducted, sold or offered elsewhere than upon the same premises where the sign is located. These signs are allowed only in commercial and industrial zoning districts and are subject to the following:
A.
Engineering certification. An engineering certification shall accompany the application for an off-premises sign permit. The engineering certification shall indicate, under the seal of a professional engineer, that the existence of the proposed off-premises sign shall not present a safety hazard.
B.
Landscaping. A landscaped island containing shrubs and/or flowers with a minimum of 32 square feet in area and a minimum of one foot in height is required around all off-premises pole and monument signs. The island shall be formed from materials such as, but not limited to, stone, brick or landscape timbers. The area of the island shall be maintained to keep it free of weeds, debris and brush. A sketch of the sign and island shall be submitted with the sign permit application for review and approval by the Zoning Officer.
C.
Permit sticker. Once an off-premises sign has obtained a permit, the permit sticker provided with the permit by the Borough shall be affixed to the sign face.
D.
Principal use limitation. No off-premises sign shall be permitted on any lot which is occupied by any other principal use or structure except as may be approved in accord with § 215-97D.[1]
[Added 10-4-2010 by Ord. No. 5-2010]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Subsection D, Replacement signs, was repealed 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006.
E.
Sign area. The maximum area for any off-premises sign shall be 100 square feet per side.
F.
Sign height. No portion of any off-premises sign shall be more than 30 feet above the highest elevation of the surrounding natural grade.
G.
Sign separation distance. The minimum distance required between all off-premises signs shall be 2,640 feet (i.e., one-half mile) as measured along the center line of the abutting roadway. Signs located on the opposite sides of the road or in an adjacent municipality are subject to this distance requirement. These signs shall be located according to the following standards:
H.
Sign setbacks. Off-premises signs shall be located in accordance with the building setbacks for structures located in the commercial or industrial zoning district.
I.
Special exception. Off-premises signs are allowed only upon the granting of a special exception by the Zoning Hearing Board in compliance with the standards in this chapter.
J.
Trees. Any tree greater than four inches in diameter which is removed for construction of a sign shall be replaced on site at a ratio of one replacement tree for each removed tree using native species no less than three inches in diameter.
§ 215-87 On-premises signs.
On-premises signs include signs, graphics and other displays for commercial, industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes, promoting products, uses or services conducted, sold or offered on the same premises where the sign is located. These signs are allowed only in commercial and industrial zoning districts and are subject to the following:
A.
Landscaping. A landscaped island containing shrubs and/or flowers with a minimum of 32 square feet in area and a minimum of one foot in height is required around all on-premises pole and monument signs. The island shall be formed from materials such as, but not limited to, stone, brick or landscape timbers. The area of the island shall be maintained to keep it free of weeds, debris and brush. A sketch of the sign and island shall be submitted with the sign permit application for review and approval by the Zoning Officer.
B.
Size of signs. (See § 215-85B for number of signs.) The size of signs shall be as follows:
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(2)
(3)
Large establishments. In addition to the other applicable requirements of this Article XI, the standards in this Subsection B(3) shall apply to any single-establishment building larger than 100,000 square feet. In cases where the development project involves more than one building or multiple establishments in one building, the normal standards shall apply.
[Added 7-6-2009 by Ord. No. 4-2009]
(a)
Wall/window or marquee signs.
[1]
Wall/window or marquee signs shall be permitted only on building facades which front on a public street abutting the property.
[2]
The total area of the wall/window or marquee sign(s) shall not exceed 10% of the area of the building wall, including doors and windows, to which the sign(s) is to be affixed or 500 square feet, whichever is less. The total number of all such signs shall not exceed five.
[3]
In the case of a building fronting on more than one public street abutting the property, Subsection B(3)(a)[1] above shall apply to the primary street frontage. On the facade fronting any other public street abutting the property, one wall/window or marquee sign(s) shall be permitted, and the area of the sign shall not exceed 10% of the area of the building wall, including doors and windows, to which the sign is to be affixed or 150 square feet, whichever is less.
(b)
One freestanding sign shall be permitted along each public street frontage abutting the property, provided that the total area of any one permitted freestanding sign shall not exceed a total of 60 square feet of any one face and shall have a maximum height of 20 feet.
C.
Sight hindrance. No freestanding sign or other display shall be erected so as to block or obstruct the sight line of automobiles exiting from the premises.
D.
Sign height. No portion of any freestanding on-premises sign or other display shall be more than 20 feet above the highest elevation of the natural grade immediately adjacent to the sign.
E.
Sign location. All freestanding signs or other displays shall be erected at least 10 feet from any property line or right-of-way and shall be located outside all clear sight triangles or a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of the travelway, whichever is the greater distance.
§ 215-88 Individual sign requirements.
The following signs are permitted in all zoning districts. Signs erected within the Borough shall conform to the following individual requirements, as well as the general requirements stated in this chapter:
B.
Awning or canopy signs. Awning or canopy signs and other displays attached to individual buildings or units shall be allowed, in addition to the permitted freestanding signs and other displays, subject to the following:
(1)
The permitted area of awning or canopy signs shall be one square foot for each two linear feet of awning or canopy up to a maximum of 16 square feet.
(2)
No awning or canopy sign shall extend above the top of the awning or canopy.
(3)
No awning or canopy sign shall contain multiple logos or insignias.
D.
Home occupation signs. On-premises identification signs for home occupations shall not exceed one sign, two square feet in area per side. Home occupation signs shall contain only the name of the business and/or business owner.
I.
Projecting signs. (Only in C-1 District.) Projecting signs shall be allowed only in the C-1 District as a replacement for one of the other signs permitted in accord with § 215-85B subject to the following:
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(1)
The permitted area of projecting signs shall be one square foot for each five linear feet of building or unit front facade to which it is attached, not to exceed 16 square feet.
(2)
The base of all projecting signs shall be no less than eight feet above the ground.
(3)
Projecting signs shall not be located or erected on the roof area of any building, shall be located only on the building walls, and shall not project above the building roofline or roof ridge.
(4)
Projecting signs shall not project from the exterior wall of a building more than four feet.
(5)
Projecting signs shall not project into any public or private street right-of-way.
J.
Wall/window or marquee signs. Permitted wall/window or marquee signs shall be subject to the following: (See § 215-85B for number and § 215-87B for size.)
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(1)
The top of all wall/window or marquee signs shall be below the roofline and at a height no greater than 20 feet above the ground immediately adjacent to the sign.
(2)
All wall signs shall be installed flat against the wall of a building and shall not extend from the wall more than 12 inches.
(3)
Theaters may erect one of the permitted wall or marquee signs with changeable copy board to display the name(s) and time(s) of the current motion picture(s) or theatrical production(s).
K.
Accessory window signs. Accessory window signs shall be permitted for retail, service and wholesale establishments and shall not require permits. However, all such signs shall:
[Added 6-21-2010 by Ord. No. 3-2010]
§ 215-89 Temporary signs.
A.
Temporary signs may be erected in all zoning districts only after obtaining a temporary sign permit, which shall cite the length of time that the sign may be displayed.
C.
Construction signs. Construction signs announcing new buildings or projects, erected after the commencement of construction. Each construction site shall be limited to one construction sign per road not exceeding 20 square feet in area and eight feet in height which shall be removed by the time the permanent, on-premises sign is erected or a certificate of occupancy for the building is issued.
D.
Political signs. (Permits shall not be required.) Political signs four square feet or larger announcing political candidates seeking office, slates of candidates, political parties, and/or political and public issues appearing on a ballot shall be subject to the following requirements:
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(1)
No person shall post any sign of any kind whatsoever upon public or private property without permission of the property owner.
(2)
Signs shall not be permitted on any utility poles, lighting poles or other similar structures.
(3)
Political signs shall not be posted more than 30 days in advance of the election to which they pertain and shall be removed within five calendar days following the election for which they were posted.
(4)
In commercial zoning districts C-1 and C-2, political signs shall not exceed 16 square feet per side in area and shall not project higher than 10 feet from the base of the sign or grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(5)
In all zoning districts, except R-1, R-2 and R-3, political signs shall not exceed four square feet per side in area and shall not project higher than 10 feet from the base of the sign or grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(6)
Signs advertising an individual candidate shall be placed at least 100 feet apart.
E.
Political yard signs. (Permits shall not be required.) Political signs four square feet or smaller announcing political candidates seeking office, slates of candidates, political parties, and/or political and public issues appearing on a ballot shall be subject to the following requirements:
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
(1)
No person shall post any sign of any kind whatsoever upon private property without permission of the property owner.
(2)
Signs shall not be permitted on utility poles, lighting poles or similar structures.
(3)
Political yard signs shall not be posted more than 30 days in advance of the election to which they pertain and shall be removed within five calendar days following the election for which they were posted.
(4)
Political yard signs shall not exceed four square feet per side in area and shall not project higher than five feet from the base of the sign or grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
G.
Special event signs. On-premises signs announcing special events, including but not limited to auctions, grand openings, new management, going-out-of-business sales and events by religious, charitable or public service groups.
(1)
Any business, individual or organization may display a special event sign. A maximum of two special event signs may be displayed for up to seven days prior to a special event.
(2)
Signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in area each and shall be removed immediately following the event.
(3)
A special event sign shall not be used to continuously advertise the same event.
§ 215-90 Personal signs.
§ 215-91 (Reserved) [1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former § 215-91, Membership signs, was repealed 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006.
§ 215-92 Gasoline station signs.
[Amended 12-6-2010 by Ord. No. 4-2010]
Automobile service and gasoline stations shall comply with all applicable regulations within this chapter, including the regulations for shopping centers (if applicable), and the following additional regulations:
A.
Changeable fuel price signs. Freestanding signs identifying the name of the business may include changeable copy indicating the type and current price of fuel dispensed on the premises. Such copy may be changed either manually or digitally provided any digital copy does not flash or change intermittently. The height of the letters/numerals shall not exceed the following and the sign shall be no larger than necessary to encompass the letters/numerals, and in no case shall exceed the width of the business sign. The changeable copy shall be counted as part of the maximum permitted area of the sign.
Number of Fuel Types Advertised | Maximum Letter Height (inches) |
|---|---|
1 or 2 | 24 |
3 | 15 |
4 | 12 |
§ 215-93 Club or camp entrance signs.
One freestanding sign listing the name of, and indicating the entrance to, a hunting or fishing camp or club, a commercial camp or commercial transient campground shall be allowed at each entrance to such uses and shall be subject to the following additional requirements:
§ 215-94 (Reserved) [1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former § 215-94, Sign plazas, was repealed 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006.
§ 215-95 Resort/community signs.
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
All signs in resorts/community developments shall conform to the following general and individual requirements:
A.
General standards, criteria and requirements.
(2)
Sign permits shall be required for instructional signs smaller than 20 square feet in area.
B.
Individual requirements. The following signs require a permit if they exceed the requirements stated in this section:
(2)
Directional signs. One directional sign may be placed at each resort/community development intersection in order to identify the location of amenities, housing clusters and neighborhoods.
(3)
Directory signs. One directory sign may be located at each neighborhood housing or amenity cluster identifying the names and locations of the establishments located within individual buildings. Directory signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and six feet in height.
(4)
Housing and community unit identification. The sign shall not exceed 20 square feet in area and four feet in height.
(5)
Instructional signs. Instructional signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in area per side.
(6)
Resort/community development entrance signs. Resort/community development entrance signs shall be subject to the following requirements:
(7)
Unit identification signs. One sign not exceeding two square feet per side may be located on each individual unit.
§ 215-96 Residential zoning district signs.
Within residential zoning districts, signs authorized in § 215-82 of this chapter do not require a permit, but permits are required for temporary signs, etc. The residential zoning district signs must conform to the following criteria:
A.
Residential development identification signs. Signs that identify the name of a residential development located at any street entrance shall be erected as follows:
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006]
B.
Management or rental office signs. Signs that identify a management or rental office located in a multifamily or residential complex may be erected as follows:
§ 215-97 Planned commercial development or planned industrial development.
[Amended 12-18-2006 by Ord. No. 9-2006; 12-6-2010 by Ord. No. 4-2010]
(See definitions in § 215-79A.) Planned commercial developments and planned industrial developments shall be authorized to erect signs based on the criteria in this § 215-97. Section 215-85B with respect to the number of signs shall not apply.
A.
Development identification signs.
(1)
Type and number. One monument sign shall be permitted for each point of vehicular access to the development. No other development identification signs shall be permitted.
(2)
Display information. A development identification sign shall be limited to displaying the development name and logo, the development developer or management, and/or the development location and/or address. No such sign shall contain the name of any individual occupant of the development.
(3)
Dimensions. No such sign shall exceed 50 square feet in area, 10 feet in width and eight feet in height above surrounding grade.
(4)
Landscaping. Landscaping shall be provided in accord with § 215-81A(6).
B.
Individual building signs. Where a development is comprised of two or more buildings, each individual building may erect one freestanding sign and one wall sign, or two wall signs.
(1)
Freestanding sign. The freestanding sign shall not exceed 40 square feet in area and 20 feet in height and a landscaped island as defined in § 215-81A(6) shall be provided.
(2)
Wall sign. The area of an individual wall sign shall not exceed 20% of the area of the building wall, including doors and windows, to which the sign is to be affixed, but not to exceed 40 square feet. (See § 215-88J for additional wall sign standards.)
(3)
Display information. All such signs shall be limited to displaying the building name and logo, the building developer or management, and the building location and address. No such sign shall contain the name of any individual occupant of the development.
C.
Individual establishment signs.
(1)
Separate entrances. In a building with multiple separate divided areas between tenants with each area having a separate exterior entrance, a wall sign for each divided area shall be permitted.
(a)
The wall sign for each divided area shall be attached to the exterior wall facade of the divided area it identifies.
(b)
The area of the wall sign shall not exceed one square foot of sign area per one linear feet of divided area frontage on which the sign is to be attached, but not to exceed 40 square feet.
(2)
Common entrance. In a building containing multiple tenants with a main entrance designed for entry and exit of the majority of tenants and visitors to the building (that is, where separate exterior entrances for each divided area are not provided) multiple wall signs may be installed as follows:
(a)
Wall signs may be erected on the facade containing the main entrance to the building, a building facade visible from a public street, and/or a building facade facing an interior driveway of the development.
(b)
The number of wall signs on a facade shall not exceed the number of tenants or five wall signs on a facade, whichever is less.
(c)
The maximum sign area for a wall sign affixed to the facade of a building shall not exceed 200 square feet subject, however, to the maximum aggregate sign area for all wall signs set forth below.
(d)
The maximum aggregate sign area for all wall signs on each facade of a building shall be determined in accord with the following standards:
Facade Area | Maximum Aggregate Wall Sign Area |
|---|---|
0 to 5,000 square feet | The aggregate area of permitted wall signs shall be the lesser of 5% of the wall facade area (including window and door areas and cornices to which the wall sign is attached) or 250 square feet. |
5,001 square feet or greater | The aggregate area of permitted wall signs shall be the lesser of 3% of the wall facade area (including window and door areas and cornices to which the wall sign is attached) or 500 square feet. |
D.
Off-premises planned commercial development or planned industrial development identification signs. In cases where a planned commercial development or planned industrial development does not front on State Route 196, State Route 611 or State Route 940, an off-premises development identification sign may be permitted as a conditional use provided it meets the requirements in § 215-97A(2), (3) and (4), the standards in § 215-111D, and the other applicable requirements of this chapter 215 as determined by the Borough Council in its sole discretion.
E.
Alternative freestanding sign option for certain planned commercial developments. Planned commercial developments may, in lieu of the freestanding signs permitted in § 215-97A and B, elect to install freestanding signs as follows: i) one freestanding sign that identifies the development name; logo; developer; management; development location; address; and/or individual businesses within the development ("directory sign"); and ii) one additional freestanding sign for each qualifying building not associated with a gas station identifying business(es) within such building(s) ("freestanding building sign").
[Added 10-1-2018 by Ord. No. 4-2018]
(1)
Directory sign regulations. A directory sign permitted above shall comply with the following:
(a)
Sign area. The sign area shall not exceed 200 square feet.
(b)
Sign height. The sign height shall not exceed 25 feet.
(c)
Individual business listing size. The sign may include individual listings of businesses within the planned commercial development. No individual business listing on the directory sign shall utilize letters, words and/or symbols less than four inches in height.
(3)
General regulations for directory and freestanding business signs.
(a)
Gas station signage. The freestanding signage permitted under this § 215-97E shall be in addition to any freestanding signage permitted for any gas station within the planned commercial development; provided, however, that any gas station that is a part of a planned commercial development that elects to proceed with freestanding signage in accordance with this § 215-97E shall not be entitled to an additional freestanding sign otherwise permitted under § 215-92B (company pole sign).
(b)
Landscaping. Landscaping shall be provided for freestanding signage permitted under this § 215-97E as required by § 215-81A(6).
§ 215-98 Directory signs.
Commercial and industrial properties may erect a directory sign not exceeding 16 square feet in area and six feet in height, identifying the names and/or addresses of the establishments within individual buildings. Directory signs shall preclude the use of any other freestanding signs for the said property on the same street frontage.
§ 215-99 Other uses.
In cases where these regulations do not specifically address a sign requested in conjunction with a permitted use, the Zoning Hearing Board shall make a written interpretation of the regulations, and the Zoning Officer shall keep a permanent record of such written interpretations.
§ 215-100 Nonconforming signs.
A.
Any sign lawfully existing or under construction before the date of enactment of these regulations or upon any date on which these regulations are amended and any sign which is accessory to a nonconforming use shall be deemed to be a nonconforming sign.
B.
Modifications. Nonconforming signs shall not be enlarged, extended, structurally reconstructed or altered in any manner, except that the sign face (i.e., the gross surface area portion of the sign) may be changed, as long as the new sign face is equal to or reduced in height, sign area and/or projection. A sign permit is not needed for a new sign face or a change in the advertising content appearing on the sign face.
C.
Removal. Nonconforming signs may remain, provided they are maintained in good repair, except for the following: