New Hanover Township
City Zoning Code
City Zoning Code
PART 23
SIGNS
§ 27-2301 Scope and Applicability.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025[1]]
1.
In all zoning districts, signs may be erected, altered, maintained, used, removed or moved, only when in compliance with the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable ordinances and regulations.
2.
Signs existing at the time of passage of this chapter, which were legally erected, and which do not conform with the requirements of this chapter, shall be considered nonconforming signs and, once removed, shall be replaced only with conforming signs. A nonconforming sign shall be replaced with a conforming sign when the nonconforming sign requires any structural renovation or the size of the background area is altered. Nonconforming signs may be repainted or repaired (including lighting), provided such repainted or repaired sign does not exceed dimensions of the existing sign; wording may also be changed. Also see the requirements of Part 22, Nonconformities.
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance amended in its entirety Part 23, Signs, adopted by Ord. 3/29/1990A, §§ 1700-1711; as amended by Ord. 93-2, 2/8/1993, §§ 62-71; Ord. 95-8B, 11/27/1995, §§ 28, 29, 31; Ord. 98-4, 4/27/1998, §§ 8, 9; Ord. 99-2, 6/28/1999, §§ 47, 48, 63; Ord. 01-6, 10/22/2001, § 25; Ord. 05-06, 8/22/2005, § 45-47; Ord. 06-01, 2/13/2006; Ord. 07-03, 3/26/2007, §§ 16-17; Ord. 09-03, 6/22/2009, § 21; Ord. 17-03, 3/27/2017; Ord. 17-09, 9/25/2017; Ord. No. 21-12, 12/2/2021; Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025.
§ 27-2302 Definitions.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
A sign which has not identified or advertised a current business, service, owner, product, or activity for a period of at least 90 days in the case of off-premises signs, or at least 180 days in the case of on-premises signs.
A sign that designates the street number and/or street name for identification purposes, as designated by the United States Postal Service. (Also known as: nameplate sign.)
A sign depicting action, motion, or light or color changes through electrical or mechanical means.
A cloth, plastic, or other nonstructural covering that projects from a wall for the purpose of shielding a doorway or window. An awning is either permanently attached to a building or can be raised or retracted to a position against the building when not in use.
Any sign painted on, or applied to, an awning.
A lighter-than-air, gas-filled balloon, tethered in a fixed location, which contains an advertisement message on its surface or attached to the balloon in any manner.
Any cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or similar non-rigid material attached to any structure, staff, pole, rope, wire, or framing which is anchored on two or more edges or at all four corners. Banners are temporary in nature and do not include flags.
Any source of electric light, whether portable or fixed, the primary purpose of which is to cast a concentrated beam of light generally skyward as a means of attracting attention to its location rather than to illuminate any particular sign, structure, or other object.
The maximum linear width of a building measured in a single straight line parallel, or essentially parallel, with the abutting public street or parking lot.
A structure other than an awning made of fabric, metal, or other material that is supported by columns or posts affixed to the ground and may also be connected to a building.
Any sign that is part of, or attached to, a canopy.
A sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols change either automatically through electrical or electronic means, or manually through placement of letters or symbols on a panel mounted in or on a track system. The two types of changeable-copy signs are manual changeable copy signs and electronic changeable copy signs, which include: message center signs, digital displays, and tri-vision boards.
A sign consisting of fabricated or formed three-dimensional letters, individually applied to a wall, which may accommodate a light source.
The distance above the walkway, or other surface if specified, to the bottom edge of a sign. This term can also refer to a horizontal distance between two objects.
The portion of a sign message made up of internally illuminated components capable of changing the message periodically. Digital displays may include but are not limited to LCD, LED, or plasma displays.
Signs designed to provide direction to pedestrian and vehicular traffic into and out of, or within a site.
The lowest horizontal line of a sloping roof.
To build, construct, attach, hang, suspend, affix, alter, structurally repair, relocate, paint or renew on a wall or any other background surface.
Artificial light, located away from the sign, which lights the sign, the source of which may or may not be visible to persons viewing the sign from any street, sidewalk, or adjacent property.
That portion of any exterior elevation of a building extending vertically from grade to the top of the parapet, wall or eaves and horizontally across the entire width of the building elevation.
A type of illumination comprised of either: (a) a group of incandescent light bulbs hung or strung overhead or on a building or other structure, or (b) light bulbs not shaded or hooded or otherwise screened to prevent direct rays of light from shining on adjacent properties or rights-of-way.
Any sign printed or painted on cloth, plastic, canvas, or other like material with distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols attached to a pole or staff and anchored along only one edge or supported or anchored at only two corners.
A sign whose artificial illumination is not kept constant in intensity at all times when in use and which exhibits changes in light, color, direction, or animation. This definition does not include electronic message center signs or digital displays that meet the requirements set forth herein.
A unit of emitted light (from a surface) stated in lumens per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, a.k.a. footcandle or light meter. One foot-lambert is equal to one lumen per square foot.
A unit of incident light (on a surface) stated in lumens per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, a.k.a. footcandle or light meter. One footcandle is equal to one lumen per square foot.
A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on, or anchored in, the ground; and that is independent and detached from any building or other structure. The following are subtypes of freestanding signs:
GROUND SIGNA sign permanently affixed to the ground at its base, supported entirely by a base structure, and not mounted on a pole or attached to any part of a building. (Also known as monument sign.)
POLE SIGNA freestanding sign that is permanently supported in a fixed location by a structure of one or more poles, posts, uprights, or braces from the ground and not supported by a building or a base structure.
A freestanding, open-air structure constructed for the purpose of shielding service station islands from the elements.
Any sign that is part of, or attached to, the vertical sides of the gas station canopy roof structure. For the purposes of this Part, gas station canopy signs shall be considered wall signs.
Any sign for the control of traffic or for identification purposes, street signs, warning signs, railroad crossing signs, and signs of public service companies indicating danger or construction, which are erected by or at the order of a public officer, employee or agent thereof, in the discharge of official duties.
A sign using a 3-dimensional message, logo, etc., which is lit in such a way as to produce a halo effect. (Also known as back-lit illumination.)
A district or zone designated by a local, state, or federal government, within which buildings, structures, and/or appurtenances are deemed important because of their association with history, or because of their unique architectural style and scale.
Signs or displays including lighting which are a non-permanent installation celebrating national, state, and local holidays, religious or cultural holidays, or other holiday seasons. (Also known as seasonal decorations.)
A sign with electrical equipment installed for illumination, either internally illuminated through its sign face by a light source contained inside the sign or externally illuminated by a light source aimed at its surface.
A source of any artificial or reflected light, either directly from a source of light incorporated in, or indirectly from an artificial source.
A sign that displays general site information, instructions, directives, or restrictions that are primarily oriented to pedestrians and motor vehicle operators who have entered a property from a public street. These signs shall not contain any commercial advertising.
Signs displayed in the window displaying information such as the business' hours of operation, credit institutions accepted, commercial and civic affiliations, and similar information. These signs shall be informational only and shall not contain a commercial message.
A sign that is an air-inflated object, which may be of various shapes, made of flexible fabric, resting on the ground or structure and equipped with a portable blower motor that provides a constant flow of air into the device.
An electronic or animated sign that reacts to the behavior or electronic signals of motor vehicle drivers.
A light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. Message center signs, digital displays, and signs incorporating neon lighting shall not be considered internal illumination for the purposes of this Part.
The physical attributes of a sign that allow for an observer's differentiation of its letters, words, numbers, or graphics.
Light emitted by a lighting installation, which extends beyond the boundaries of the property on which the installation is sited.
A non-permanent sign that is displayed on private property for more than 30 days, but not intended to be displayed for an indefinite period. A permit is required for such a sign.
An objective measurement of the brightness of illumination, including illumination emitted by an electronic sign, measured in candles per square foot (cd/ft2).
A sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols are changed manually through placement or drawing of letters or symbols on a sign face.
A permanent structure, other than a roof or canopy, attached to, supported by, and projecting from a building and providing protection from the elements.
Any sign attached to a marquee for the purpose of identifying a use or product. If attached to a theater, performing arts center, cinema, or other similar use, it may also advertise films or productions.
A sign having parts that physically move rather than merely appear to move as might be found in a digital display. The physical movement may be activated electronically or by another means, but shall not include wind-activated movement such as used for banners or flags. Mechanical movement signs do not include digital signs that have changeable, programmable displays.
A memorial plaque or tablet, including grave markers or other remembrances of persons or events, which is not used for a commercial message.
A permanent sign for displaying the bill of fare available at a restaurant, or other use serving food, or beverages.
A type of illuminated, changeable copy sign that consists of electronically changing alphanumeric text often used for gas price display signs and athletic scoreboards.
The spreading of one message across more than one sign structure.
A freestanding sign used to advertise businesses that occupy a shopping center or complex with multiple tenants. (Also known as: directory sign.)
A large picture/image (including but not limited to painted art) which is painted, constructed, or affixed directly onto a vertical building wall, boulder, or bollard, which may or may not contain text, logos, and/or symbols.
A sign illuminated by a neon tube, or other visible light-emanating gas tube, that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other graphics.
A term used to describe a metric unit of luminance defined as candela per square meter (cd/m2). The unit is based on the candela, the modern metric unit of luminous intensity; and the square meter.
A sign that was legally erected and maintained at the effective date of this Part,[1] or amendment thereto, that does not currently comply with sign regulations of the district in which it is located.
A sign directing attention to a business, person, commodity or service not necessarily sold or located upon the premises where the sign is located.
A sign whose message and design relate to an individual business, profession, product, service, event, point of view, or other commercial or non-commercial activity sold, offered, or conducted on the same property where the sign is located.
A sign painted on or mounted parallel to the face of a structure or wall and projecting not more than 12 inches from the plane or facade of the structure wall or above the roof line or eaves of the structure.
The portion of a facade or wall that extends above the roof.
A triangular or irregular piece of fabric or other materials, commonly attached in strings or strands, or supported on small poles intended to flap in the wind.
A sign attached or affixed to a building, window, or structure, or to the ground in a manner that enables the sign to resist environmental loads, such as wind, and that precludes ready removal or movement of the sign and whose intended use appears to be indefinite.
A sign that expresses an opinion, interest, position, or other non-commercial message.
A sign, with or without display or legend, which is self-supporting without being firmly embedded in the ground, or is fixed on a movable stand or mounted on wheels or movable vehicle or made easily movable in some other manner.
A sign which is affixed to any building, wall or structure and extends more than 12 inches horizontally from the facade or plane of the structure.
A sign containing any material or device which has the effect of intensifying reflected light.
A sign which revolves in a circular motion; rather than remaining stationary on its supporting structure.
The uppermost line of the roof of a building or, in the case of an extended facade or parapet, the uppermost height of said facade or parapet.
A sign erected and maintained above the roof line, parapet or eaves of a building.
A type of freestanding, portable, temporary sign consisting of two faces connected and hinged at the top and whose message is targeted to pedestrians. (Also known as A-frame sign.)
A sign contained within an athletic venue and intended solely to provide information to the attendees of an athletic event.
An on-premises sign regulating the use of the premises, such as a "no trespassing," "no hunting," or "no soliciting" sign. (Also known as warning sign.)
The description of a luminaire from which no direct glare is visible at normal viewing angles, by virtue of its being properly aimed, oriented, and located and properly fitted with such devices as shields, barn doors, baffles, louvers, skirts, or visors.
Any device, structure, fixture, painting, emblem, or visual that uses words, graphics, colors, illumination, symbols, numbers, or letters for the purpose of communicating a message. Sign includes the sign faces as well as any sign supporting structure.
The total dimensions of a sign surface used to display information, messages, advertising, logos, or symbols.
The part of the sign that is or can be used for the sign area. The sign area could be smaller than the sign face.
The vertical dimension of a sign.
Poles, posts, walls, frames, brackets, or other supports holding a sign in place.
A sign tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued, or otherwise attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences, public benches, streetlights, or other objects, or placed on any public property or in the public right-of-way or on any private property without the permission of the property owner. (Also known as bandit sign.)
The exterior facade of a building housing a commercial use visible from a street, sidewalk, or other pedestrian way accessible to the public and containing the primary entrance to the commercial establishment.
A display made of lightweight, flexible materials, consisting of long, narrow, wavy strips hung individually or in a series, with or without a logo or advertising message printed or painted on them and typically designed to move in the wind.
The side or sides of a lot abutting on a public street or right-of-way.
A banner suspended above a public sidewalk and attached to a single street pole. These signs shall not contain any commercial advertising.
A type of non-permanent sign that is located on private property that can be displayed for no more than 30 consecutive days at one time. All temporary signs must display the date they were posted in the bottom right corner of the sign.
A portable sign which is affixed and/or painted to a vehicle in such a manner that the carrying of such sign or signs is no longer incidental to the vehicle's primary purpose.
A sign affixed to a vehicle in such a manner that the sign is used primarily as a stationary advertisement for the business on which the vehicle sits or is otherwise not incidental to the vehicle's primary purpose.
A sign displayed on a vending machine indicating the name of the product being sold and/or the price of such product.
A building-mounted sign which is either attached to, displayed on, or painted on an exterior wall in a manner parallel with the wall surface. A sign installed on a false or mansard roof is also considered a wall sign. (Also known as: fascia sign, parallel wall sign, or band sign.)
An interior sign affixed to or within 12 inches of the interior surface of a window with its message visible to the outside of said window surface.
[1]
Editor's Note: "This Part" refers to Ord. No. 25-01, adopted 4/3/2025.
§ 27-2303 Area of Sign.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
1.
The area of a sign shall be construed to 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 incidental to the display itself).
2.
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 smallest rectangle or other regular geometric shape of not more than four sides which encompasses all of the letters and symbols.
3.
In computing the square-foot area of a double-faced sign, only one side shall be considered, provided both faces are identical. If the interior angle formed by the two faces of the double-faced sign is greater than 45°, then both sides of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area.
§ 27-2304 Height of Sign.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
1.
The maximum height of a freestanding sign shall be measured from the elevation of the shoulder of the road to the highest point of the sign structure. In the case where there is a sidewalk, the height of the sign shall be measured from the elevation of the sidewalk.
2.
For a projecting, parallel or roof sign, the maximum height shall be determined by its placement on the building.
§ 27-2305 Illumination of Sign.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
1.
Signs may be illuminated, unless otherwise specified herein, consistent with the following standards:
A.
Location. The summary table below provides detailed information about what types of illumination are permitted in each zoning district.
B.
Light sources to illuminate signs shall neither be visible from any street right-of-way, nor cause glare hazardous or distracting to pedestrians, vehicle drivers, or adjacent properties.
C.
No more than 0.2 footcandle of light shall be detectable at the boundary of any abutting property.
D.
Hours of Operation:
(1)
Signs on non-residential properties may be illuminated from 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., or 1/2 hour before the opening of or past the close of business of the facility being identified or advertised, whichever is applicable.
(2)
Signs shall provide an automatic timer to comply with the intent of this section.
E.
Brightness: Message center signs and digital displays are subject to the following brightness limits:
(1)
During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset, luminance shall be no greater than 5,000 nits.
(2)
At all other times, luminance shall be no greater than 250 nits.
(3)
Each sign must have a light sensing device that will automatically adjust the brightness of the display as the natural ambient light conditions change to comply with the limits set here within.
F.
Message Duration: The length of time each message may be displayed on a message center sign, digital display, or tri-vision board sign is based upon the visibility and speed limit unique to individual signs and adjacent road conditions. The following method should be used to calculate message duration for message center signs, digital displays, or tri-vision board signs.
(1)
Determine the greatest distance from which the sign becomes visible on the road the sign is primarily intended to serve. If a sign is intended to be seen by more than one roadway, the road with the lower posted speed limit shall be used for determining message duration.
(2)
Multiply the road's posted speed limit (MPH) by 5,280, and then divide by 3,600 to obtain the speed limit in feet/second.
(3)
Divide the visibility distance by the speed limit (feet/second).
(4)
Add an additional 10% of this number to the total.
(5)
The resulting amount of time is the minimum permitted message duration, except where this value is less than eight seconds in which the minimum message duration shall be no less than eight seconds.
2.
3.
Message center signs are subject to the following regulations, in addition to all other illumination requirements established in this section.
A.
Sign Type: Message center signs are permitted in the form of freestanding, monument, and wall signs, both on-premises and off-premises, in accordance with the regulations established in the chapter.
B.
Height: A message center sign shall have the same height limits as other permitted signs of the same type and location.
C.
Area:
(1)
When used as an on-premises sign, message center signs shall not exceed 75% of the sign area for any one sign, and shall not exceed more than 30% of the total area for all signs permitted on a property.
(2)
When used as an off-premises signs, message center signs may be used for the full permitted sign area.
D.
Maximum Number: Where permitted, one message center sign is permitted per street frontage, up to a maximum of two message center signs per property.
E.
Message Display:
(1)
No message center sign may contain text which flashes, pulsates, moves, or scrolls. Each complete message must fit on one screen.
(2)
The content of a message center sign must transition by changing instantly (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
(3)
Default Design: The sign shall contain a default design which shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should occur.
F.
Conversion of a permitted non-message center sign to a message center sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to this chapter.
G.
The addition of any message center sign to a nonconforming sign is prohibited.
H.
Public Service Announcements: The owner of every message center sign is encouraged to coordinate with the local authorities to display, when appropriate, emergency information important to the traveling public including, but not limited to, Amber Alerts or alerts concerning terrorist attacks or natural disasters. Emergency information messages should remain in the advertising rotation according to the protocols of the agency that issues the information.
4.
Digital display signs are subject to the following regulations in addition to all other requirements established in this section.
A.
Sign Type: Digital displays are permitted in the form of freestanding, monument, and wall signs, both on-premises and off-premises, in accordance with the regulations established in this chapter.
B.
Height: A digital display shall have the same height limits as for other permitted signs of the same type and location.
D.
Maximum Number per Property: Where permitted, one digital display sign is permitted per property.
E.
Message Display:
(1)
Any digital display containing animation, streaming video, or text or images which flash, pulsate, move, or scroll is prohibited. Each complete message must fit on one screen.
(2)
One message/display may be brighter than another, but each individual message/display must be static in intensity.
(3)
The content of a digital display must transition by changing instantly, with no transition graphics (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
(4)
Default Design: The sign shall contain a default design which shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should occur.
F.
Conversion of a permitted non-digital sign to a digital sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to this chapter.
G.
The addition of any digital display to a nonconforming sign is prohibited.
H.
Public Service Announcements: The owner of every digital sign is encouraged to coordinate with the local authorities to display, when appropriate, emergency information important to the traveling public including, but not limited to Amber Alerts or alerts concerning terrorist attacks or natural disasters. Emergency information messages shall remain in the advertising rotation according to the protocols of the agency that issues the information.
5.
Electrical Standards.
A.
Permits for illuminated signs will not be issued without an approved electrical permit if required. Applications for electrical permits shall be filed at the same time as the sign permit application.
B.
All work shall be completed in full compliance with the Township of New Hanover Electrical Code as set forth in the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code.
C.
The electrical supply to all exterior signs, whether to the sign itself or to lighting fixtures positioned to illuminate the sign, shall be provided by means of concealed electrical cables. Electrical supply to freestanding signs shall be provided by means of underground cables.
D.
The owner of any illuminated sign shall arrange for a certification showing compliance with the brightness standards set forth herein by an independent contractor and provide the certification documentation to the Township of New Hanover as a condition precedent to the issuance of a sign permit.
6.
Glare Control: Glare control shall be achieved primarily through the use of such means as cutoff fixtures, shields, and baffles, and appropriate application of fixture mounting height, wattage, aiming angle, and fixture placement. Vegetation screens shall not be employed to serve as the primary means for controlling glare.
7.
Illumination Standards by District. (See separate table.)
District/Use | Illumination Type | Brightness Limitation for Digital Displays and Message Center Signs | Hours of Illumination | Motion Limitation | Size Limitation | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Internal | Message Center Sign | External | Digital Display | Digital Displays and Message Center Signs | Digital Display Signs as a Max % of Total Sign Area on Site | Message Center Signs as a Max % of Sign Area | |||
Agricultural Uses(A) | N | N^^ | Y | N | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Residential Uses(B) | N^ | N | Y | N | N/A | N/A | Determined by visibility. See § 27-2305.1 | N/A | 50% |
Institutional and Recreational Uses(C) | Y | Y | Y | Y | Daytime: 5,000 Nits Nighttime: 250 Nits | 6:00 am to 10:00 pm or 1/2 hour past close of business | Determined by visibility. See § 27-2305.1 | N/A | 50% |
Village Mixed Use (Non-Residential Uses) | N | N | Y | N | N/A | 6:00 am to 10:00 pm or 1/2 hour past close of business | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Office, Commercial & Industrial Uses not in VMU | Y | Y | Y | Y | Daytime: 5,000 Nits Nighttime: 250 Nits | 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour past close of business | Determined by visibility. See § 27-2305.1 | 30% | 75% |
Off-Premises* | Y | Y | Y | Y | Daytime: 5,000 Nits Nighttime: 250 Nits | 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour past close of business | Determined by visibility. See § 27-2305.1 | 100% | 100% |
Non-Permanent* | N | N | N | N | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Portable Signs* | N | N | N | N | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
NOTES: | |
* | Off-premises, temporary, and portable signs are subject to the illumination regulations governing off-premises, temporary and portable signs, rather than the illumination standards governing the specific district where the sign is located. |
^ | Excludes address signs. |
^^ | Excludes scoreboards located in parks or recreational facilities. |
§ 27-2306 Placement of a Sign.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
1.
In no case, except for government/regulatory sign shall any sign be erected so that it:
A.
Lies within or projects over the existing (legal) right-of-way (§ 27-202) of any street or is within 10 feet of the shoulder or curb, whichever is greater.
C.
Obscures a motorist's view of traffic signals, stop signs or other warning devices as viewed from a distance of 500 feet along established thoroughfares.
D.
Obscures a motorist's view of roadway or intersections ahead as viewed from a distance of 500 feet along established thoroughfares.
E.
Limits a pedestrian's view of vehicular traffic to less than 500 feet while he stands inside the curbline at an intersection or other established crossing point.
F.
Lies within a distance of 10 feet from any side lot line.
G.
Lies within a parking space or fire lane.
H.
Blocks the movement of pedestrians traveling on public thoroughfares.
I.
Blocks the entrances, exits, fire escapes or fire lanes to a building.
J.
The lowest edge of a projecting or freestanding sign shall not be less than 7 1/2 feet above a sidewalk elevation.
§ 27-2307 Signs in the R-2, R-2M, R-25, R-15, R-5 and RV Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
1.
In the R-2, R-2M, R-25, R-15, R-5 and RV Districts, the following types of signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
A.
Small limited duration signs for all uses; provided, that:
(1)
Such signs shall be erected only on the premises to which they relate.
(2)
Such signs shall be non-illuminated.
(3)
The area on one side of any such sign shall not exceed six square feet.
(4)
No more than one such sign shall be placed on any property held in single and separate ownership, unless such property fronts upon more than one public street, in which event, one such sign may be erected on each street frontage.
B.
Large limited duration signs for performance standard development (B2) and all subdivisions with four or more units having the following uses: detached dwelling (B1) or mixed-use multifamily (B12), provided that:
(1)
Such signs shall be erected only on the premises to which they relate.
(2)
Such signs shall be non-illuminated or indirectly illuminated.
(3)
The area on one side of any such sign shall not exceed 32 square feet.
(4)
Not more than one such sign shall be placed upon any property held in single and separate ownership, unless such property fronts upon more than one public street, in which event one sign may be erected on each street frontage.
C.
Freestanding signs for the following uses: schools, places of worship, hospitals, nursing homes, life care facilities, full care facilities, libraries, museums, cemeteries, municipal buildings, community centers and for clubs, golf courses, golf course residential communities, recreation facilities (public or private), farms, estates or similar permitted uses; provided, that:
(1)
The area of one side of any such sign shall not exceed 32 square feet.
(2)
Such signs may be directly, indirectly or not illuminated.
(3)
Not more than one such sign is placed on any premises held in single and separate ownership unless such property fronts upon more than one street, in which event one such sign may be erected on each street frontage.
(4)
Said signs may only be located on the premises that they identify.
(5)
Freestanding, parallel, projecting or window signs may be erected.
(6)
Such signs are permitted for farms, estates or similar permitted uses on parcels of 10 acres or larger.
D.
Temporary signs; provided that:
(1)
The size of any such sign is not in excess of 32 square feet.
(2)
Such signs shall be non-illuminated.
(3)
Such signs shall be removed promptly 30 days after they are posted. If such signs are not removed at the end of the 30-day period, the Township may have them removed.
(4)
Said signs may only be located on the premises that they identify.
(5)
Such signs 32 square feet or less do not require a permit provided that the applicable requirements of this chapter have been met. However, such signs that exceed 32 square feet require a permit from the Township Zoning Officer and require a deposit with the Township at the time of application of a sum, to be set at a certain amount from time to time by resolution of the Board of Supervisors, to insure that all such signs shall be removed promptly within three days after the event to which such signs relate.
E.
Parallel signs associated with accessory home occupation; provided, that:
(1)
The size of any such sign shall not exceed six square feet per side.
(2)
Such signs shall be non-illuminated except that a sign for a physician, dentist, healer, or such other person whose services in emergency are considered essential to the public health, safety and welfare; provided, that the external illumination is white light only and provided the total sign illumination shall not exceed the equivalent of that given by a 0.2 footcandle light source.
(3)
Not more than one such sign shall be erected for each permitted use or dwelling unit.
(4)
Any such sign shall be erected only on the premises wherein the home occupation is located.
(5)
A sign is permitted only for such uses that are registered with the Township and have obtained a zoning permit.
F.
Directional, informational or public service signs; provided that:
G.
One freestanding sign at one principal access drive to a residential development or complex; provided that:
H.
Temporary on-premises non-illuminated signs for agricultural retail use; provided that:
J.
Freestanding or parallel signs for nonresidential uses, where such uses are permitted as principal uses or valid nonconforming uses; provided, that:
(1)
Not more than a total of one sign shall be erected on any one premises under single and separate ownership or on the premises leased or utilized by any one business establishment.
(2)
Such signs may be indirectly or non-illuminated.
(3)
The total area of such sign shall not exceed 10 square feet per side.
(4)
A sign is permitted only for nonconforming uses that are registered with the Township.
(5)
Freestanding signs shall not exceed a maximum height of 10 feet.
§ 27-2308 Signs in the VMU and CC Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
1.
In the VMU and CC Districts, the following types of signs, and no others, shall be permitted:
A.
Any sign erected and maintained in accordance with the provisions of § 27-2307, provided the use to which it refers is permitted in the VMU District.
B.
Signs associated with permitted uses shall conform to the requirements of § 27-2303, Subsection 2, except that a freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 20 feet. For all such signs, except office parks, multiple commercial centers or shopping centers, a sign or signs may be permitted in accordance with one of the following:
(1)
One parallel or window sign with an area no greater than one square feet for each lineal foot of building frontage.
(2)
Two parallel or window signs mounted on separate walls, each with an area no greater than 0.5 square feet for each lineal foot of building frontage.
(3)
C.
For shopping centers, multiple commercial centers and office parks, signs may be erected in accordance with the following:
(1)
One freestanding sign which identifies the shopping center, industrial park or office park and may serve as a directory sign for uses in the development may be erected. No additional directory sign may be erected. Such sign shall not exceed 40 square feet per side. Not more than one such sign shall be erected on any property held in single and separate ownership, unless such premises fronts upon more than one street, in which event one such sign may be erected on each street frontage. The maximum height is 24 feet.
(2)
One sign may be erected on each individual use in accordance with one of the following:
(a)
One window sign consisting of individual letters or symbols, not to exceed 40% of the window area, for all such signs.
(b)
One projecting sign not more than five feet from the wall up to 10 square feet in size.
(c)
One parallel sign up to one square foot in area for each lineal foot of building frontage.
(3)
A sign in the form of a map which lists individual establishments, illustrates the location of individual establishments and/or provides direction to such establishments:
(a)
Such signs may be freestanding or parallel signs.
(b)
One such sign may be erected at each entrance to a building with multiple occupancies.
(c)
The maximum area of any such sign shall be eight square feet.
(d)
The maximum height shall be six feet.
(e)
Such sign may be non-illuminated, directly illuminated or indirectly illuminated.
D.
Directional Signs. Directional signs of three square feet or less are permitted for traffic control purposes.
E.
Temporary Signs. Exterior temporary signs associated with commercial and consumer service uses, including all portable or vehicular signs, when located on the site where such use is conducted, may be permitted for a period not to exceed 30 days in any one calendar year for any one premises or commercial use.
(1)
The size of such sign may not exceed 15 square feet per side.
(2)
Application for a temporary sign permit shall be made to the Township Zoning Officer accompanied by the required permit fee and an escrow deposit, to be set at a certain amount from time to time by resolution of the Board of Supervisors, as a guarantee that the temporary signs shall be promptly and completely removed at the end of the authorized period. If such signs are not promptly removed at the end of the authorized period, the Township will then have them removed and keep a sum necessary to reimburse the expense incurred in removal.
F.
If a business establishment does not have street frontage or if the place of business is not visible to passersby on the adjacent street, then that business may erect an additional freestanding sign not exceeding four square feet at the street line entrance to the property, provided all side yard setback requirements of this chapter are met.
§ 27-2309 Signs in the LI Districts.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025; amended by Ord. No. 25-03, 8/7/2025]
1.
In the LI Districts, the following types of signs, and no others, are permitted:
A.
Any sign erected and maintained in accordance with the provisions of § 27-2308, provided the use to which it refers is permitted in the LI Districts.
B.
Signs associated with commercial and consumer service uses, office uses, industrial uses, or utility, service and transportation uses shall conform to the requirements of § 27-2304, Subsection 2, except that a freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of 20 feet from the ground level to the top of the sign. For all such signs, except industrial parks, a sign or signs may be permitted in accordance with one of the following:
(1)
One parallel or window sign up to 32 square feet.
(2)
Two parallel or window signs mounted on separate walls, each up to 20 square feet.
(3)
C.
For industrial parks, signs may be erected in accordance with the following:
(1)
One freestanding sign which identifies the industrial park and may serve as a directory sign for uses in the development may be erected. No additional directory sign may be erected. Such sign shall not exceed 40 square feet per side. Not more than one such sign shall be erected on any property held in single and separate ownership, unless such premises fronts upon more than one street, in which event one such sign may be erected on each street frontage. The maximum height is 24 feet.
(2)
One sign may be erected on each individual use within the industrial park in accordance with one of the following:
(3)
A sign in the form of a map which lists individual establishments, illustrates the locations of individual establishments and/or provides direction to such establishment.
(a)
Such signs may be freestanding or parallel signs.
(b)
One such sign may be erected at each entrance to a building with multiple occupancy.
(c)
The maximum area of any such sign shall be eight square feet.
(d)
The maximum height shall be six feet.
(e)
Such sign may be non-illuminated, directly illuminated or indirectly illuminated.
D.
Directional Signs. Directional signs of three square feet or less are permitted for traffic control purposes, provided such signs do not contain advertising copy.
E.
Temporary Signs. Exterior temporary signs, including all portable or vehicular signs, when located on the site where such use is conducted, may be permitted for a period not to exceed 30 days in any one calendar year for any one premises or commercial use; provided that:
(1)
The size of such sign may not exceed 15 square feet per side.
(2)
Application for a temporary sign permit shall be made to the Township Zoning Officer accompanied by the required permit fee and an escrow deposit, to be set at a certain amount from time to time by resolution of the Board of Supervisors, as a guarantee that the temporary signs shall be promptly and completely removed at the end of the authorized period. If such signs are not promptly removed at the end of the authorized period, the Township may then have them removed and keep a sum necessary to reimburse the expense incurred in removal.
F.
If a permitted business establishment does not have street frontage or if the place of business is not visible to passersby on the adjacent street, then that business may erect an additional sign not exceeding four square feet at the street line entrance to the property, provided all side yard setback requirements of this chapter are met.
G.
Roof Signs.
(1)
Roof signs shall be permitted only in the LI Districts.
(2)
The maximum area of a roof sign shall not exceed 5% of the total area of the building facade upon which the roof sign sits.
(3)
The maximum height that a roof sign may project above a parapet or eaves of a building shall be equivalent to 20% of the height of the building facade.
(4)
Roof signs may exist instead of, but not in addition to, freestanding signs on a given premises. Where a premises is allowed two or more freestanding signs, a roof sign may be used to substitute for one of the freestanding signs.
H.
Off-Premises Signs.
(1)
Off-premises signs shall be permitted only in the LI District where immediately adjoining Routes 73 and 663 and for an area within 150 feet of cartway of said roads.
(2)
Off-premises signs may exist instead of, but not in addition to, freestanding signs on a given premises. Where a premises is allowed two or more freestanding signs, an off-premises sign may be used to substitute for one of the freestanding signs.
(3)
One off-premises sign may be erected on a property.
(4)
Off-premises signs may have a maximum display area of 100 square feet inclusive of any border but excluding supports.
(5)
Two sign faces may be utilized only in the back-to-back arrangement in which case they shall be parallel and directly opposite sign faces oriented in opposite directions located not more than 15 feet apart.
(6)
Off-premises signs shall not exceed a maximum height of 24 feet. The height shall be measured from the bed of the street, road or highway to the highest part of the sign or supporting structure.
(7)
No off-premises sign shall be erected within 1,000 feet of any other off-premises sign on the same side of the street, road or highway.
(8)
No off-premises sign shall be erected within 20 feet of the shoulder or curb, whichever is the greater distance.
(9)
All off-premises signs shall be constructed on a steel unipole support meeting the industry-wide standards and shall be designed and certified as accurate and of sound construction quality by a registered and certified professional engineer whose signature and seal shall appear on the face of said plan along with said certification.
(10)
All off-premises signs shall be maintained in good and safe structural condition. The painted portion of all such signs shall be kept in good condition.
(11)
The general area in the vicinity of all off-premises signs shall be kept free and clear of sign material, debris and adhere to any and all Township ordinances now in effect or as hereinafter enacted or amended.
(12)
All newly erected off-premises signs shall conform to all applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations.
(13)
Off-premises signs may be illuminated; provided, that the lighting shall be arranged in a manner which shall protect neighboring properties and streets or roadways from direct glare, beams or rays and shall not be of such intensity or brilliance to cause impairment of the vision of any driver or operator of any vehicle nor create hazardous interferences of any kind.
(14)
No off-premises signs shall be erected within 150 feet of any intersection of any public roadway, and no off-premises sign shall be erected or placed in any manner so as to interfere with or impede the unobstructed vision of a motor vehicle operator attempting to enter on or exit from any intersection public or private roadway, or any driveway or parking facility.
(15)
No off-premises sign shall be erected or maintained without the owner thereof having first obtained a permit from the Township, which shall be issued by the Zoning Officer or other party designated by the Board of Supervisors, only upon receipt of a written application completed in duplicate, signed by the applicant and accompanied by five copies of a plan of the property or tract of land, prepared to scale, depicting dimensional limits of the sign face, the perimeter boundaries as taken from the deed for said tract, identifying the current owner of the tract, all adjacent owners, the location and dimensions of Routes 73 or 663 in relation to the tract, the next closest intersecting public roadways and any driveways or parking areas within 150 feet of the site, the proposed location of the sign area to be transferred in fee or controlled by lease and any and all easements or utility installations affecting such site and accompanied by five copies of a plan of the sign prepared to scale depicting the supporting structure and the specifications of the materials and methods of construction and maintenance to be employed, signed and certified by a registered licensed professional engineer.
(a)
Permit applications shall be reviewed by the Zoning Officer and the Township Engineer for compliance with this chapter and upon approval by both, a permit shall be issued to remain in effect for a period of three years from the date of issuance of the permit, subject to renewal for additional three-year intervals upon written reapplication and presentation of documentation establishing applicant's continued compliance with the terms and conditions of this chapter concerning weed control, maintenance, illumination and other terms, not to include the location of the site itself, but to include any terms or conditions appearing on the face of the permit.
(b)
Permit applications shall be accompanied by a check or cash in full satisfaction of an initial application fee to be established by resolution of the Board of Supervisors.
§ 27-2310 Exempted Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025]
1.
In addition to the signs that do not require a permit as previously noted, the following signs do not require a permit; provided, the applicable requirements of this chapter have been met:
B.
Governmental flags, insignias, signs, or regulatory signs.
C.
Legal notices.
D.
Crop identification signs.
E.
Vending machine signs bearing the brand name of a product or the price of such product when displayed on a vending machine selling such product.
F.
Memorial signs or historical signs or tablets.
G.
Window signs giving store hours or the name or names of credit or charge institutions, provided the total area of any such sign or all signs together does not exceed two square feet.
H.
Temporary window signs, including community special event signs, shall take up not more than 50% of the window area.
I.
Signs which are a permanent architectural feature of a building or structure, such as a cornerstone, or identifying letters carved into or embossed on a building, provided the letters are not made of a reflective material.
J.
Bunting, pennants and similar materials are permitted to announce the opening of a new business or industry and must be removed after seven days of the opening day or the first day of business. The owner/user of the business or industry shall inform the Township Zoning Officer in writing of the opening day or the first day of business. Such notice shall be submitted at least 14 days prior to the opening day or the first day of business.
K.
Revolving barber shop pole sign, provided that it does not exceed 36 inches in height.
L.
Temporary construction traffic control signs.
N.
Personal expression signs of any sign type, including flags, provided that they are non-commercial in nature and not illuminated. Personal expression signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in size and shall be anchored such that it is structurally sound.
O.
Signs inside a building, or other enclosed facility, which are not meant to be viewed from the outside, and are located greater than three feet from the window.
P.
Holiday and seasonal decorations.
Q.
Security Signs. The regulations within this chapter shall not apply to the posting of conventional "no trespassing" signs so long as the signs meet applicable state and federal laws.
§ 27-2311 Prohibited Signs.
[Ord. No. 25-01, 4/3/2025; as amended by Ord. No. 25-03, 8/7/2025]
1.
The following signs are unlawful and prohibited:
A.
Animated signs, flashing signs, or signs that scroll or flash text or graphics, with the exception of barber poles which are used for a barbershop use and traffic control signs and signals.
B.
Any sign suspended between poles and lighted by a series of lights.
C.
Any sign erected or painted or drawn on a tree or utility pole.
D.
Any banner sign or sign of any other type across a public street or on any private property is prohibited, except for such signs which are approved by the Zoning Hearing Board, as a use permitted by special exception, to be of general benefit to the Township or for public convenience, necessity or welfare.
E.
Any sign suspended between poles which is either a pennant which blows in the wind or a spinner which spins in the wind.
F.
Any sign which does not conform to the requirements of the sign ordinance which was in effect when the sign was erected.
G.
Any sign erected containing information on which is stated or implied that a property may be used for any purpose not permitted under the provisions of this chapter in the zoning district on which the property to which the sign relates is located.
H.
Any signs that imitate, resemble, interfere with, or obstruct official traffic lights, signs, or signals.
I.
Abandoned signs.
J.
Inflatable devices or balloon signs, with the exception of balloons used in temporary, non-commercial situations.
K.
Signs which prevent free ingress or egress from any door, window, fire escape, or that prevent free access from one part of a roof to any other part. No sign other than a safety sign shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape.
L.
Signs which emit smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, sound, odor or contain open flames.
M.
Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors.
N.
Interactive signs.
O.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or federal government.
P.
Snipe signs.