Rumson City Zoning Code
§ 22-7.24
Signs.
[Ord. 7/11/91, § 12; Ord. No. 08-015D, § 1; Ord. No. 09-007D, § 1; Ord. No. 10-001D, § 1; Ord. No. 12-0130; Ord. No. 14-011D § 5; 12-15-2020 by Ord. No. 20-008D]
All signs shall conform to the provisions of this section and to the applicable requirements of the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code.
a.
General Objectives.
1.
To protect the public health, safety and welfare by restricting signs which impair the public's ability to receive information, violate privacy, or which increase the probability of accidents by distracting attention or obstructing vision.
2.
To encourage signs which promote a desirable visual environment through creative yet orderly design arrangements.
3.
To encourage signs which aid orientation, identify activities, describe local history and character or serve other education purposes.
4.
To encourage the replacement of nonconforming signs by conforming signs through the strict enforcement of the procedures and requirements of this section.
b.
Application Procedures. Application for development permit:
1.
Application shall be made to the Administrative Officer (Zoning Officer) for the issuance of a development permit by any person wishing to erect, alter, modify, or expand any sign, except "Exempt Signs."
2.
If the Administrative Officer (Zoning Officer) determines that a sign requires the issuance of a development permit, is not part of an application for site plan, subdivision, conditional use, or variance approval, is permitted as an accessory structure within the zone and meets the applicable sign schedule requirements, the officer shall issue a development permit. The applicant may then apply for a sign construction permit and any other permits that may be required.
3.
If the Administrative Officer (Zoning Officer) determines that the proposed sign is part of subdivision, site plan, or conditional use application or that it does not comply with applicable regulations, sign schedule requirements or other sign regulations, the officer shall instruct the applicant that Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment approval of an application for development is required and the officer shall further advise the applicant which Board has jurisdiction in accordance with the following schedule:
Sign Type | Board Jurisdiction |
|---|---|
Signs indicated on plats which are part of a development application before the Planning Board | Planning Board |
Signs indicated on plats which are part of a development application before the Zoning Board of Adjustment | Zoning Board of Adjustment |
Signs not permitted | Zoning Board of Adjustment |
c.
General Standards. The following general standards shall apply to all signs:
1.
Prohibited Signs. All signs not specifically permitted are prohibited.
2.
Signs to Relate to Use of Property. All signs, unless specifically stated otherwise in this section, shall relate to the use or occupancy of the property upon which the sign is located.
3.
Modification of Graphic Content. The graphic content of a sign may be modified without obtaining a development permit, provided that the proposed graphic content complies with all applicable provisions of this section, except that any condition of approval contained in a resolution of either the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment, which specifies graphic content of the sign, shall require that a new or amended approval be issued by said Board prior to graphic content modification.
4.
Illumination.
(a)
Unless specifically stated otherwise in a Resolution of Approval or in this section, all regulated signs may only be illuminated in accordance with the performance standards found in this section, exempt signs shall not be illuminated.
(b)
An illuminated sign located on a lot adjacent to or across the street from any residential district and visible from such residential district shall not be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
(c)
No sign shall contain blinking, flashing, flickering, tracer or sequential lighting and shall remain stationary and constant in intensity and color at all times.
(d)
All wiring for permanent illuminated signs shall be installed and maintained so that it is not within public view. The running of wiring or conduit along the exterior wall of a building to access a sign is specifically prohibited except that the Construction Official may permit exterior conduit if in the judgment of the official there is no practical way to run the conduit so that it is not within public view.
(e)
No sign shall have exposed neon tubes or bare bulbs.
5.
Obstruction of Access Ways. No sign or sign structure shall obstruct a fire escape, door, window, or other required access way. No sign shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape, except those signs required by the Municipal Authority.
6.
Obstruction of Glass Surface. No sign shall project over, occupy or obstruct any glass surface required for light or ventilation by any applicable law, ordinance or regulation.
7.
Traffic Safety. The Administrative Officer and/or the Municipal Agency may seek and rely upon the opinion of the Chief of Police with regard to interpretation/enforcement of this section.
(a)
No sign shall be maintained at any location where by reason of its position, size, shape, content or color, it may obstruct, impair, obscure, interfere with the view of, or be confused with, any traffic control sign, signal or device, or where it may interfere with, mislead or confuse traffic.
(b)
No sign which uses the words "Stop," "Look," "Caution," "Danger," or any similar wording, which may confuse or mislead the public, shall be permitted.
8.
Signs in Rights-of-Way. No sign or any part of a sign, except publicly owned or authorized signs, shall be placed in or extend into or over any public right-of-way.
9.
Sign Permanency. All signs shall be securely affixed in a permanent manner to either the ground or building, unless specifically stated otherwise in this section.
10.
Signs Affixed to Certain Structures. No sign shall be affixed to any roof, tree, fence, utility pole, or other similar structure nor placed upon motor vehicles which are continually or repeatedly parked in a conspicuous location to serve as a sign, however, nothing is intended to prohibit the placement of signs not exceeding three (3') feet in any dimension, directing traffic or identifying various parking locations within a lot on light poles and utility poles erected therein. Signs painted on pavement surfaces shall be restricted to traffic control markings only.
11.
Advertising Flags, Banners, Pinwheels. No advertising flags, banners, pinwheels, portable signs, or similar advertising devices shall be permitted.
12.
Animated or Moving Signs. No animated or moving signs shall be permitted, except for the required movement of time and temperature displays.
13.
Painted Signs. No sign may be painted directly on the surface of any building, wall, fence or similar structure.
14.
Sparkling and Glittering Signs. No sign may utilize reflection enhanced or fluorescent colors or contain any material which sparkles, reflects or glitters, however, nothing herein is intended to prohibit the use of reflective paint on signs directing traffic or identifying various locations within a property.
15.
Sign Measurement.
(a)
Area to be Included. Unless it is part of the message or sign face, the supporting structure or bracing of a sign shall be omitted in measuring the area of the sign except if such structure or bracing has a total horizontal projected width more than 20% of the sign width or twelve (12") inches. Where a sign has two sign faces back-to-back and parallel to each other, the area of only one face shall be included in determining the area of the sign.
(b)
Area of Signs with Backing. The area of all signs with backing shall be measured by computing the area of the sign backing.
(c)
Area of Signs without Backing. The area of all signs without backing shall be measured by computing the area of the smallest geometric figure which can encompass all words, letters, figures, emblems and other elements of the sign message with a clearance of at least four (4") inches from any such element.
(d)
Height of Signs. Sign height shall be measured between average grade and the highest point of the highest element of the sign.
16.
Multiple Sign Faces. No sign may contain more than one sign face, except that two sign faces back-to-back and parallel to each other (no angle between sign faces) (commonly known as a double faced sign) shall be permitted. No double faced sign shall be greater than eighteen (18") inches in thickness as measured between sign faces.
17.
Graphic Content Coverage. The maximum coverage of any sign face by graphic contents shall not exceed 60%.
d.
Permitted Signs.
1.
Exempt Signs. The following signs shall be exempt from the requirement of obtaining a development permit:
(a)
Governmental signs; erected or authorized by a governmental unit, including privately owned and erected signs required by any law or regulation.
(b)
Nameplate signs; provided that such signs are limited to no more than one wall or ground sign per occupancy; are no more than 75 square inches in area; are non-illuminated, or externally illuminated; and, if a ground sign are no more than three (3') feet in height.
(c)
Warning signs; provided that such signs are limited to no more than two wall or ground signs per occupancy; are no more than three square feet in area each; are non-illuminated; and if a ground sign are no higher than three (3') feet in height.
(d)
Construction signs related to nonresidential construction in nonresidential zones; provided that such signs are limited to no more than one wall or ground sign per parcel; and no more than 32 square feet in area; are nonilluminated; and are maintained for no more than 14 days following the conclusion of the construction in question. No construction sign shall be permitted in any residential zone.
(e)
Temporary glass surface signs; provided the area of glass surface signs displayed does not exceed either 25% of the area of the glass surface in which they are shown nor 5% of the aggregate area of all glass surfaces in the building facade.
(f)
Public events signs; provided that there are no more than three placed in any business at any given time and they are non-illuminated, and are maintained for a period of no longer than 30 days before the applicable event nor more than three days after such event.
(g)
Real estate signs; provided that such signs are limited to no more than one wall or ground sign per property; are not more than six square feet in area per residential lot; are no higher than six (6') feet if a ground sign, and shall not be illuminated. Use of the word "sold" or any other notation to indicate that the real estate is no longer on the market is specifically prohibited.
(h)
Real estate open house sign; provided that such signs are limited to not more than one open house sign shall be placed at the corner of the closest intersection; are limited to six square feet in area; and shall be located within the right-of-way and outside of any sight-triangle (clear sight area) as determined by Exhibits 9-9A and 9-9B. The use of any balloons or streamers is specifically prohibited. (Exhibits 9-9A and 9-9B may be found at the end of subsection 22-9.3)
(i)
On-site informational signs; provided that each sign is limited to a wall, window or ground sign of not more than two square feet in area and not more than seven (7') feet in height above grade. The sign may include a business name or logo but shall not include any advertising message. In locations where more than one business share a common vehicular access, signs marking entrances and exits shall contain only the name of the shopping or business center. Multiple signs identifying each tenant or use are specifically prohibited.
(j)
Flags and emblems of a government or of a political, civic, philanthropic, educational or religious organization occupying the premises.
(k)
Commercial sale and/or event signs; provided that such signs are no more than six square feet in area; are located entirely on the premises where such sale or event is to be conducted or on other private property pursuant to the owner's consent; are clearly marked with the name, address and telephone number of the person responsible for the removal of such sign; are erected not more than 36 hours in advance of such sale or 45 days in advance of such event; and are removed on the day following the conclusion of such sale or event. No more than one sign may be placed on any business property nor more than one on any residential property.
"For Sale" signs on vehicles, boats, trailers or other items in any zone are specifically prohibited. "For Sale" signs shall be allowed on boats and boat trailers on marina property.
(l)
Portable signs shall be permitted in all GB Zones and shall be limited to one per business.
(1)
The sign shall have a maximum width of thirty (30") inches, maximum height of forty-two (42") inches and maximum depth of twenty (20") inches;
(2)
Sign must be placed directly in front of the business;
(3)
Sign must not block the sidewalk or access to the building;
(4)
May only be displayed when open for business;
(5)
The sign shall be constructed of weather resistant materials (no paper, fiberboard, foamcore board, corrugated paper or unfinished wood materials shall be permitted), and shall be constructed and/or weighted so as to be impervious to the effects of strong winds. The sign shall be maintained at all times in good repair and shall not be permitted to weather, fade, peel, crack or otherwise deteriorate;
(6)
Notwithstanding anything contained in this ordinance to the contrary, the Fire Marshal, Chief of Police and/or Code Enforcement Officer shall have the right to prohibit or further restrict the location of any sidewalk sign which, in their sole discretion, they deem by virtue of the sign's construction or location, to constitute a safety hazard to the public.
(m)
Traffic Signs and Signals. Temporary or permanent traffic signs and signals installed or authorized by the Borough, County, or State for the purpose of directing and regulating the flow of traffic.
(n)
Public Transportation Signs. Signs indicating public transportation stops when installed or authorized by the Borough or a Public Transportation Authority or agency.
(o)
Vacated Property Signs. Provided that only one such sign shall be provided either affixed to a building wall or located within a window; not exceeding six square feet in area; nor displayed for longer than 60 days following vacating the property.
(p)
Signs on Machines. Signs which are an integral part of vending machines, including gasoline pumps, milk and ice machines, provided that they do not collectively exceed three square feet in area per machine.
(q)
Interior Signs. Signs which are located within buildings and not within thirty-six (36") inches of a window visible from a public street or public parking facility.
(r)
Political Signs. It is recommended that such signs are not more than 12 square feet in area if located in a nonresidential district or more than six square feet in area if located in a residential district; are limited to not more than one per lot; are located entirely on private property pursuant to the owner's consent; are clearly marked with the name, address, and telephone number of the person responsible for the removal of such sign; are erected not more than 45 days prior to such election; and are removed within 14 days following such election.
(s)
Historical or architectural designation signs; provided that such signs are limited to no more than one wall or ground sign per occupancy; are no more than six square feet in area; are not illuminated and contain no commercial advertising.
(t)
Home occupation signs; provided that such signs are limited to no more than one wall sign per occupancy; are no more than one square foot in area; and are non-illuminated.
(u)
Blackboard Signs. One such sign may be affixed to a building wall or located within a window; it may not exceed 10 square feet in area and may only be used to display information concerning goods or services available on the premises.
(v)
Emergency contact contractor site identification signs for new construction shall be a maximum of six square feet and shall include only the name, telephone number and e-mail address (if applicable) of the contractor, and the address or location and block and lot numbers of the property. Signs are to be located twenty-five (25') feet off the roadway or 50% of the distance between the roadway and the front of the structure, whichever is the lesser. Signs are to be placed parallel to the roadway and in the front yard only, unless approved by the Code Enforcement Officer. All signs are to be no more than thirty-six (36'') inches off the ground to the highest point, including the posts.
(w)
Awning signs containing the name of the business, logo, and street number, restricted to drop-leaf (fringe) of the awning and occupying an area no greater than 40% of the total drop-leaf area. The drop-leaf of any awning used as an awning sign shall not exceed ten (10") inches in height. No portion of an awning, other than the drop-leaf (fringe) may be used as a sign.
(x)
Digital message display signs (LED) at public educational institutions.
2.
Exempt Sign(s) Limitations.
(a)
Signs permitted by subsection 22-7.24, paragraphs d, 1(e), (f) and (k) may be displayed 30 days before and three days after the sale, event or activity.
(b)
Signs permitted by subsections 22-7.24, paragraphs d, 1(e), (f) and (k) may be displayed no more than three times during any calendar year.
(c)
Unless approved by the Municipal Agency, no building may display a total of more than 12 signs and no individual occupancy a total of more than six signs permitted by subsection 22-7.24, paragraphs d, 1(e), (f), (i), (k), (l), (o), (t) and (u).
(d)
Signs permitted by subsection 22-7.24, paragraph d,1(h), Real Estate open house sign, may only be displayed on Sundays between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. during 2010. Open house signs shall be removed immediately upon the end of the event or at 5:00 p.m. whichever is earlier. Open house signs shall not be permitted after January 1, 2011.
(e)
Digital message display signs or marquee signs at public educational institutions shall adhere to the following limitations:
(1)
The minimum pitch (LED resolution) shall be an 8mm or better regardless of viewing distance.
(2)
The LED display shall be encased in an enclosure architecturally congruent with the principal structure.
(3)
The use of the colors green or red, of any shade, cannot exceed 50% of a display's capacity, during the duration of any individual slide, due to conflicts with vehicular traffic.
(4)
The minimum rate of slide changes shall not be less than seven seconds per slide.
(5)
The sign shall not adversely impact sight distances from public or private streets, driveways, or parking lots.
(6)
The sign shall be installed outside of the municipal right-of-way.
(7)
Each entity shall be permitted one digital message display per property.
(8)
Digital message display signs are otherwise prohibited in all zones.
3.
Regulated Signs. Permitted signs which are not exempt are regulated signs. They shall meet the requirements of this section, the Schedule of Sign Regulations and the zone district regulations.