Sellersville City Zoning Code
ARTICLE VIII
Sign Regulations
[Amended 3-10-2025 by Ord. No. 752]
§ 160-85 Conformance required.
Any sign erected or maintained shall conform with the provisions of this article and any other ordinance or regulations of Sellersville Borough not inconsistent herewith.
§ 160-86 Scope and applicability.
A.
In all zoning districts, signs may be erected, altered, maintained, used, removed, or moved, relocated, or demolished only when in compliance with the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable ordinances and regulations.
B.
Nonconforming signs. Signs existing at the time of passage of this chapter which were legally erected, and which do not conform to the requirements of this chapter, shall be considered nonconforming signs, and once removed, shall be replaced only with conforming signs. 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.
C.
All plans and applications for subdivision and/or land developments shall include information describing all signs proposed for the subdivision and/or land development. The plans shall include and indicate the size, location, style, materials, proposed text, lighting, and colors for all signs, to demonstrate that the requirements of the borough's sign regulations as set forth in this chapter have been satisfied.
§ 160-87 Purpose.
A.
The objectives of this article are to establish requirements for placing, installing, and maintaining signs in order to preserve and protect the health, safety, welfare, and general well-being of the community's citizens. Just as regulations for the placement, construction and maintenance of buildings and structures through zoning is a valid use of the law, so are regulations for the placement, installation, and maintenance of signs a valid use of the law, because signs, in the literal sense, must be considered structures and, in a practical sense, are capable of producing many of the same nuisances that buildings produce.
B.
Sign regulations are further justified by the primary purpose of a sign: to draw attention to its content. Moreover, since signs can distract drivers or obstruct views, the very nature of a sign can be a potential hazard to the safety of the motorist. Therefore, it is the intent of this article to regulate the location of signs in such a way that they can fulfill their purpose without causing unsafe conditions for motorists.
C.
Finally, it is the objective of this article to protect and preserve the visual character of the community by regulating the placement, installation, and maintenance of signs. Because signs are intended to command visual contact, this gives them an important role in the overall visual character of a community. This visual impact affects the value and enjoyment of property; therefore, the regulation of signs can work to enhance the value of property, encourage appropriate land use throughout a municipality and minimize visual clutter in the community.
D.
Establish reasonable regulations regarding the allowed posting of signs. These regulations are intended to address the following general issues, without regard to actual content of messaging of the signs:
(1)
The number and type of signs, including type of materials, size, lighting, and other general characteristics.
(2)
Where signs of various types can be placed.
(3)
When and for what length of time various signs can be displayed.
E.
With this purpose in mind, it is the intention of this article to authorize only those uses of signs which are:
(1)
Compatible with their surroundings.
(2)
Appropriate to the type of activity or function to which they pertain.
(3)
Expressive of the identity and purpose of the individual property, occupant or of the community as a whole.
(4)
Legible in the circumstances in which they are seen.
§ 160-88 Definitions.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
ABANDONED SIGN
A permanent sign which identifies a business, service, owner, product, or activity that has not been active for 365 days; or a sign which contains an outdated message of at least 365 days; or a sign which is damaged, in disrepair, or vandalized and for a period exceeding 30 days.
ANIMATED SIGN
A type of freestanding wall, projecting, or roof graphic with motion, flashing light or color changes requiring electrical energy or electronic or manufactured sources of supply or the movement of a sign set in motion by the atmosphere. For the purposes of this chapter, this definition shall not be meant to include public service signs, such as time and temperature signs; revolving or changeable copy signs; or wind-activated elements, such as flags, banners, or similar items.
ARCHITECTURAL PROJECTION
Any projection, except signs, which is not intended for occupancy, and which extends beyond the face of an exterior wall of a building.
AWNING/CANOPY SIGN
Any graphic painted on, or applied to, an awning or canopy.
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BACKGROUND AREA OF SIGN
The entire area of a sign on which copy can be placed, including framing and border, but not including structural supports and decorative trim which is incidental to the copy content of the display itself.
BANNER SIGN
A graphic made of any cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or similar non-rigid material attached to any structure, staff, pole, rope, wire, or framing. It is anchored on two or more edges or at all four corners and secured or mounted to allow motion caused by the atmosphere. Banners are temporary in nature and do not include flags.
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BENCH SIGN
A graphic located on any part of the surface of a bench or seat placed on or adjacent to a public right-of-way.
BILLBOARD
A permanent off-premises graphic erected, maintained, or used for the purpose of providing copy area for advertising messages for rent or lease.
BOLLARD SIGNS
Graphics which are placed over bollards and poles like sleeves or otherwise attached to bollards.
BUILDING CODE
The Uniform Construction Code, contained in 34 Pa. Code, Chapters 401-405, as amended, which governs construction standards, approved materials and projection standards unless otherwise specified herein.
BUSINESS SIGN
An on-premises graphic which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, industry, or other activity which is sold, offered, or conducted on the premises on which such sign is located or to which it is affixed.
CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN
A graphic on which the message copy can be changed through the use of attachable letters, numerals, or graphics or through the use of electronic switching of lamps or other illuminated devices. This includes public service information, such as time and temperature, digital displays, electronic messaging, or any sign which features automatic or manual switching or changing of its message content. Also, any graphic that reacts to the behavior or electronic signals of motor vehicle drivers or pedestrians.
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CHANNEL LETTER SIGN
A graphic consisting of fabricated or formed three-dimensional letters individually applied to a wall which may include a light source.
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COPY AREA OF SIGN
The actual area of the sign copy applied to any background; compute copy area by straight lines drawn tangent to copy extremities encompassing individual letters, words, and graphic elements.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
Any graphic which is designed and erected solely for the purpose of vehicular traffic or pedestrian direction, and which is placed on the property to which or on which the public is directed.
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DIRECTORY SIGN
A freestanding graphic used to advertise businesses that occupy a shopping center or complex with multiple tenants (also known as a Multi-Tenant Sign).
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EAVES
The lowest horizontal line of a sloping roof.
ERECT
To build, construct, attach, hang, suspend, affix, alter, structurally repair, paint, relocate or renew on a wall or any other background surface.
FACADE
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.
FASCIA SIGN
See "wall sign."
FEATHER FLAG SIGN
A graphic made of fabric attached to a pole on one side made of lightweight, flexible materials, consisting of a long, narrow, vertical strip attached to a pole, with or without a logo or advertising message printed or painted on them and typically designed to move in the wind.
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FLAG
Any graphic printed or painted on cloth, plastic or other like material with distinctive colors, patterns or symbols attached to a pole or staff and anchored along one edge or supported or anchored at only two corners.
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FREESTANDING SIGN
A graphic permanently supported by upright(s), which is permanently anchored into the ground. Such sign may be a pole banner sign or a monument sign.
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GOVERNMENT/REGULATORY SIGN
Any graphic 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. Also includes "no trespassing," "no hunting," or "no soliciting" signs.
GRAPHIC
An image or object which is intended to convey a message or information.
HALO ILLUMINATION
A graphic using a three-dimensional message, logo, etc., which is lit in such a way as to produce a halo effect (also known as back-lit illumination).
HUMAN BILLBOARD
A graphic supported or held by a person who may wear a costume.
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ILLUMINANCE
An objective measurement of the brightness of illumination, including illumination emitted by an electronic sign, measured in candles per square foot (cd/ft2).
ILLUMINATED SIGN
A graphic 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.
ILLUMINATION
A source of any artificial or reflected light, either directly from a source of light incorporated in, or indirectly from an artificial source.
ILLUMINATION, EXTERNAL
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.
ILLUMINATION, INTERNAL
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 ordinance.
INCIDENTAL WINDOW SIGN
Graphics 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.
INDIRECTLY ILLUMINATED SIGN
A graphic illuminated with a light so shielded that no direct rays are visible elsewhere on the lot where said illumination occurs. If such shielding device is defective, such sign shall be deemed to be a directly illuminated sign.
INFLATABLE SIGN
A graphic 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. Lighter than air gases or hot air may also be used for inflation.
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INTERIOR SIGN
Any graphic, except a window sign, placed within a building regardless of whether its message is visible to the exterior of the building. Except for such window signs, interior signs are not regulated by the provisions of this chapter.
KIOSK
A permanent structure designed for the posting of temporary graphics or messages.
LAWN SIGN
A temporary on-premises graphic placed in the front yard of a residential use.
LIMITED DURATION YARD SIGNS
A sign that can be displayed in the front, side or rear yard that shall not be displayed permanently.
MARQUEE SIGN
Any graphic attached to a covered structure projecting from and supported by a building with independent roof and drainage provisions and which is erected over a doorway or doorways as protection against the weather.
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MECHANICAL MOVEMENT SIGN
A graphic 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.
MEMORIAL SIGN
Memorial sign, graphics public monument or historical identification sign, plaques, or tablets, including grave markers or other remembrances of persons or events.
MENU SIGN
A permanent graphic for displaying the bill of fare available at a restaurant, or other use serving food, or beverages.
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MESSAGE SEQUENCING
The spreading of one message across more than one sign structure.
MONUMENT SIGN
A low-profile freestanding graphic mounted permanently to and directly on the ground, with no separation between the base of the sign and the ground, having or appearing to have a solid and opaque base, and designed to be viewed at a height of six feet.
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MURAL (OR MURAL SIGN)
A large picture/image (including but not limited to painted art) which is painted, constructed, or affixed directly onto a vertical building wall, which may or may not contain text, logos, and/or symbols.
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NEON SIGN
A graphic illuminated by a neon tube, or other visible light-emanating gas tube, that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other graphics.
NONCONFORMING SIGN
A graphic that was legally erected and maintained at the effective date of this Ordinance, or amendment thereto, that does not comply with sign regulations of the district in which it is located.
NONILLUMINATED SIGN
A graphic that is not illuminated.
OFF-PREMISES SIGN
A graphic directing attention to a business, person, commodity, or service not sold or located upon the premises where the sign is located; includes signs erected or maintained for purpose of providing copy area of advertising messages for business, rent or lease.
ON-PREMISES SIGN
A graphic which carries only messages strictly incidental to a lawful use of the premises on which it is located. Such signs may include, but not be limited to, messages indicating the business transacted, services rendered, goods sold or produced on the premises, name of the business, and name of the person, firm or corporation occupying the premises.
PARALLEL SIGN
See "wall sign."
PARAPET
The portion of a facade or wall that extends above the roof of a building or structure.
PENNANT
A triangular or irregular piece of fabric or other material, commonly attached in strings or strands, or supported on small poles intended to flap in the wind.
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PERMANENT SIGN
A graphic 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.
POLE BANNER
A banner suspended above a public sidewalk and attached to a single street pole by one or two perpendicular arms.
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PORTABLE SIGN
A graphic not permanently attached to the ground or a building or not designed to be permanently attached to the ground a pole, or a building. Portable signs may or may not convey a specific message is self- supporting without being firmly embedded in the ground or is fixed on a movable stand or mounted on wheels or movable vehicles or made easily movable in some other manner.
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PREMISES
A separate lot or tax parcel with individual frontage abutting the street line. A premises may include more than one occupant as in an office complex or shopping center.
PROJECTING SIGN
A graphic which is affixed to any building, wall or structure and extends more than 12 inches horizontally from the facade or vertical plane of the structure.
PUBLIC SERVICE AND INFORMATION SIGNS
Advertising the availability of restrooms, telephone, or similar public convenience.
REFLECTIVE SIGN
A graphic containing any material or device which has the effect of intensifying reflected light.
ROOF LINE
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.
ROOF SIGN
A graphic erected or maintained upon the roof or parapet of a building, the entire face of which is situated above the eaves or highest architectural point of the building to which it is attached, and which is wholly or partially supported by said building.
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SEASONAL DECORATIONS
Graphics 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).
SIGN
Any graphic display attached, painted, or represented directly or indirectly on a structure or other surface that shall display or include any letter, word, insignia, flag, or representation used as or which is in the nature of an advertisement, announcement, visual communication, or direction or which is designed to attract the eye or bring the subject to the attention of the public.
SIGN SUPPORTING STRUCTURE
Poles, posts, walls, frames, brackets, or other supports holding a graphic in place.
SIGN, AREA
The total dimensions of a graphic surface used to display information, messages, advertising, logos, or symbols.
SIGN, BACKGROUND AREA
The entire area of a graphic on which copy can be placed, including framing, border, and trim, but not including structural supports.
SIGN, COPY AREA
The actual area of the graphic copy applied to any background. The area of a sign is computed by straight lines drawn tangent to copy extremities encompassing individual letters, words, or graphic elements.
SIGN, FACE
The part of the graphic that is or can be used for the sign area. The sign area may be smaller than the sign face.
SIGN, HEIGHT
The vertical dimension of a graphic as measured using the standards in this article.
STOREFRONT
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.
STREAMERS
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.
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TEMPORARY SIGN
A nonpermanent graphic constructed and intended for short-term use bearing a message which is displayed before, during and after an event, to which the sign relates, and which is to take place at a time and place to be determined or specified on the sign. A sign not referring to a date specific shall relate to the date of application for a permit. Such signs include limited duration and temporary yard signs.
TEMPORARY YARD SIGN
A sign that can be displayed in the front, side, or rear yard periodically or seasonally for short periods of time.
UPPER-LEVEL BUILDING SIGN
A wall graphic located on the second floor or higher and below the eaves of the roof.
VEHICULAR SIGN
Any vehicle or trailer which is not customarily used to transport persons and property for the business it advertises, which is parked on a public right of way or on public or private property so as to be visible from a public right-of-way which has attached hereto or located thereon any sign or advertising device for the primary purpose of providing advertisement of products or directing people to a business or activity located on the same or another property. Such vehicular signs shall be permitted only as allowed in Article VII of the Zoning Ordinance, of the Code of the Borough of Sellersville.
VENDING MACHINE SIGN
A graphic displayed on a vending machine indicating the name of the product being sold and/or the price of such product, as amended from time to time.
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WALL OR FASCIA SIGN
A graphic, which is attached to, displayed on, or painted on parallel to any exterior wall of a building or structure. Also includes signs affixed to architectural projections, canopies, or marquees which project from a building facade, provided the copy area of such sign remains parallel to the building facade. A sign installed on a false or mansard roof is also considered a wall sign (also known as parallel, wall, channel letter or band sign).
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WINDOW SIGN
A graphic applied, painted, affixed to or within 12 inches of the interior surface of a window with its message facing the outside of the building, and easily seen from the outside of said window surface. Customary displays of merchandise or objects and material without lettering behind a store window are not considered signs.
§ 160-89 Nonconforming signs.
Any sign existing at the time of the passage of this chapter that does not conform in use, location, height, or size with the regulations of the district in which such sign is located shall be considered nonconforming and may continue subject to the following provisions:
A.
Signs which are nonconforming by reason of their prohibition under § 160-98 shall be removed within five years following enactment of this chapter or from any other date of the establishment of their nonconformity, except for signs which have been granted a variance.
B.
A sign on a building or structure which does not conform to this chapter shall be removed when the building or structure is demolished or when the fair market value of the cost of the building or structure renovation or expansion exceeds 50% of the fair market value of the building or structure as assessed by the Bucks County Board of Tax Assessment.
C.
A sign not conforming to this chapter shall be removed when the sign requires any structural renovation, or the background area of the sign is to be altered.
D.
A nonconforming sign must be removed within 14 days or be made to conform to this chapter in every respect whenever:
(1)
It is not firmly attached to the ground or some other object and can be easily moved.
(2)
It becomes so deteriorated that it no longer serves a useful purpose of communication and is a nuisance as determined by the borough.
§ 160-90 Exempted signs.
The following signs are permitted in all districts and do not require a permit, provided that the applicable conditions and uses have been met:
A.
Official highway route number signs, street name signs, directional or other traffic signs may be erected on public roads and highways in the interest of public safety.
B.
Signs displaying the name and address of the occupant of the premises, provided that the area of any such sign shall not exceed one square foot and not more than one such sign shall be erected for each occupant of a premises, unless such property fronts on more than one street, in which case one such sign may be erected on each street frontage.
C.
No-trespassing signs, signs indicating the prohibition or control of fishing, hunting etc., or signs indicating the private nature of a road, provided that the area of any such sign does not exceed 216 square inches.
D.
Legal notices.
E.
Public service and information signs advertising the availability of restrooms, telephones, or similar public conveniences; also, signs advertising meeting times and places of nonprofit service or charitable organizations. These signs may be erected, provided that they do not advertise any commercial establishment, activity, organization, product, good or service, except those of public utilities and may be otherwise regulated by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Any such sign shall not exceed four square feet.
F.
Vending machine, and coin operated machines and fuel pumps signs bearing the brand name of a product or the price of such product when displayed on a machine or pump offering such product.
G.
Memorial signs, public monument or historical identification sign, plaques, or tablets, provided that such sign, plaque, or tablet does not exceed four square feet. Public monuments may not exceed seven square feet.
H.
Window signs giving store hours or the name or names of credit or charge institutions, provided that the total area of any sign or all signs together does not exceed two square feet.
I.
Temporary window signs, including community special event signs, provided that such signs take up no more than 50% of the window area.
J.
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 that the letters are not made of a reflective material nor contrast in color with the building.
K.
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 Borough 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.
L.
Revolving barbershop pole sign, provided that it does not exceed 36 inches in height and that it is erected only in a commercial district.
M.
Seasonal decorations shall be exempted from the provisions of this chapter, except as they may interfere with glare or traffic safety or in any other way become a public safety hazard.
N.
Flags. Governmental flag or insignia such as the flag of the United States, the Pennsylvania state flag, and/or other local governmental flags.
O.
Art or mural sign provided such signs do not contain any commercial messaging.
P.
Government/regulatory signs, pole banners, or insignias.
§ 160-91 Obstruction.
No sign shall be placed in such a position that it will cause danger on a street by obscuring the view and, in no case, except government/regulatory and street signs, shall signs be placed within the clear sight triangle as set forth in § 160-68, Traffic visibility across corners.
§ 160-92 Official signs.
No signs, except those of a duly constituted governmental body, including traffic signs and similar regulatory notices, shall be allowed within the right of way. This provision may be waived for wall and projecting signs in areas where no yard setback is required.
§ 160-93 General regulations.
A.
The overall size and number of signs permitted is subject to approval by the borough council as to comply with the borough comprehensive plan.
B.
Location of signs. In no case, except for government/regulatory and street signs, shall any sign be erected so that it:
(1)
Lies within or projects out over the street line of any street or within 10 feet of the shoulder or curb, whichever is greater.
(2)
Lies within the clear-sight triangle as set forth in this chapter and the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance.
(3)
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.
(4)
Obscures a motorist's view of roadway or intersections ahead as viewed from a distance of 500 feet along established thoroughfares.
(5)
Limits a pedestrian's view of vehicular traffic to less than 500 feet while they stand inside the curb line at an intersection or other established crossing point.
(6)
Lies within a distance of 15 feet from either side yard property line.
(7)
Lies within a parking space or fire lane.
(8)
Blocks the movement of pedestrians traveling on public thoroughfares.
(9)
Blocks the exit fire escape or fire lane to a building.
C.
Area of signs.
(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 to include any supporting framework, bracing or decorative trim which is not incidental to the copy content of the display itself. The area shall be the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters, designs, and symbols.
(2)
Multisided sign area determination.
(a)
Only one side shall be considered when determining the sign area provided that the faces are equal in size, the interior angle formed by the faces is less than 45°, and the two faces are not more than 18 inches apart.
(b)
Where the faces are not equal in size, but the interior angle formed by the faces is less than 45° and the two faces are not more than 18 inches apart, the larger sign face shall be used as the basis for calculating sign area.
(c)
When the interior angle formed by the faces is greater than 45 degrees, or the faces are greater than 18 inches apart, all sides of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area.
(3)
If an establishment has walls fronting on two or more streets or if the property fronts on more than one street, the sign area for each building wall or property frontage shall be computed separately.
(4)
A sign supported by more than one means (and therefore may be defined as a freestanding, wall, roof, or projecting sign) shall have its area and height calculation determined by the type of sign which has the most restrictive standards.
(5)
Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional or irregularly shaped objects, shall have a sign area of the sum of two adjacent vertical sign faces of the smallest cube encompassing the sign or object.
(6)
If elements of a sign are movable or flexible, such as a flag or banner, the measurement is taken when the elements are fully extended and parallel to the plane of view.
(7)
The permitted maximum area for all signs is determined by the sign type and the zoning district in which the sign is located.
Figure 12. Area of Signs  |
D.
Height of signs.
(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 mean height between the elevation of the road and the elevation of the grade upon which the sign base is located.
(2)
For the projecting or wall signs, the maximum height shall not exceed the height of the facade of the building.
(3)
Clearance for freestanding and projecting signs shall be measured as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the sign, including any framework or other structural elements. The minimum clearance shall be eight feet.
Figure 13: Height of Signs  |
E.
Construction requirements. Construction code requirements. Any sign hereafter erected shall conform to the provisions of this ordinance, the Uniform Construction Code of Pennsylvania, and any other ordinance or regulations of the borough. All electrical signs shall be manufactured, listed, and labeled in accordance with the National Electric Code.
(1)
Signs attached to the ground must be anchored below the frost line with a footing.
F.
Maintenance requirements. Every sign permitted by this chapter must be constructed of durable materials and kept in good condition and repair.
(1)
When any sign becomes insecure, is in danger of falling, or is otherwise deemed unsafe by the borough or if any sign shall be unlawfully erected in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter, the owner thereof or the person or firm maintaining same shall, upon written notice by the Borough, in the case of immediate danger and in any case within not more than 30 days, make such sign conform to the provisions of this chapter or shall remove it. If within 30 days the order is not complied with, the Borough may remove or cause to be removed such sign at the expense of the owner or lessee.
(2)
Should the landowner object to the Zoning Officer's determination said landowner shall appeal the Zoning Officer's decision to the Zoning Hearing Board within 30 days of receipt of the notice. Failure of a landowner to either rectify the condition of a sign within 30 days or to appeal the decision of the Zoning Officer to the Zoning Hearing Board within 30 days shall constitute a violation of this chapter.
G.
Sign illumination.
(1)
General standards.
(a)
The indirectly illuminated signs shall shine with white or clear light only.
(b)
Fully shielded fixtures shall be used, and the source of illumination shall not be visible for any adjoining property or roadway. The planting of vegetation shall not be considered as a replacement for this requirement.
(c)
The internal light source of directly illuminated signs shall be white or clear light only. Illuminated signs with any form of exposed neon or other tubes are prohibited.
(d)
Illuminated signs shall not operate one half hour after business closing or 12 AM (midnight), whichever is later.
(e)
Internally illuminated signs are not permitted in residential districts.
(f)
Externally illuminated signs displaying name and address of occupants and public service and information signs may be permitted in residential districts.
(2)
Types of illumination. Where permitted, illumination may be one of the following:
(a)
External. Externally illuminated signs, where permitted, are subject to the following regulations:
[1]
The source of the light must be concealed by translucent covers.
[2]
External illumination shall be by a steady, stationary light source, shielded and directed solely at the sign. The light source must be static in color.
(b)
Internal. Internally illuminated signs, where permitted, are subject to the following regulations:
[1]
Internal illumination, including neon lighting, must be static in intensity and color.
[2]
Halo illumination. Signs are back lit in such a way to create a halo effect are permitted.
(3)
Illumination requirements. The following requirements have been set forth to permit the illumination of signs, as defined within this ordinance:
(a)
Direct. Illumination of a sign designed to give forth artificial light directly through transparent or translucent materials from a source of light within such sign.
(b)
Indirect. Illumination of a sign from an exterior source. It shall produce no direct rays that are visible elsewhere on the lot where said illumination occurs. The planting of vegetation, while a desirable additional means to reduce the impact of the light source, shall not be considered as a replacement for this requirement. All light shall be directed at the sign and no horizontal or vertical light trespass shall be permitted.
(c)
No light shall produce light trespass off the premises by illumination originating on the premises. Illumination from light originating on the site shall not exceed 0.25 foot-candles at the lot line or street line.
(d)
During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset, illuminance shall be no greater than 464 foot-candles (464 cd/ft2).
(e)
At all other times, illuminance shall be no greater than 23 foot-candles (23 cd/ft2).
(f)
Each sign must have a light sensing device that will automatically adjust the brightness of the display as the natural light conditions change.
(g)
Ambient conditions adjustment. All signs installed after the adoption of this chapter, that will have illumination by a means other than natural light must be equipped with a mechanism that automatically adjusts the brightness in response to ambient conditions.
(4)
Glare. Any lighting fixture on a sign that is located within 10 feet of a property line of a residential zoning district or an existing residential use, or within 10 feet of a street line (except as permitted by this ordinance) shall be:
(a)
Aimed away from the property line, residential use, or zoning district, or street line.
(b)
Shielded on the side closest to the property line, residential use, zoning district, or street line.
(c)
Shall not produce a strong light or a reflection of a strong light greater than 0.25 foot-candle beyond the lot lines.
§ 160-94 Permits, construction/maintenance and violations.
A.
Permits required.
(1)
A permit must be obtained from the borough before the erecting of all signs erected in the Borough, unless specifically exempted herein.
(2)
Exemptions from the necessity of securing a permit, however, shall not be construed to relieve the owner of the sign involved from responsibility for its erection in a safe manner and in a manner in accord with all the other provisions of this chapter.
(3)
Before any permit is granted for the erection of a sign or sign structure, plans and specifications shall be filed with the borough showing the following:
(a)
The dimensions of the sign and, where applicable, the dimensions of the wall surface of the building to which it is to be attached.
(b)
The dimensions of the sign's supporting members.
(c)
The maximum height of the sign.
(d)
The proposed location of the sign in relation to the face of the building, in front of which or above which it is to be erected.
(e)
The proposed location of the sign in relation to the boundaries of the lot upon which it is to be situated.
(f)
Where the sign is to be attached to an existing building, a current photograph of the face of the building to which the sign is to be attached.
(g)
The materials, finish, and details of construction, including loads, stresses, anchorage, and any other pertinent engineering data.
(h)
Plans for signs with a proposed area greater than 100 square feet to be prepared and sealed by a structural engineer.
(i)
The application for a permit to be accompanied by the written consent of the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is to be erected for Borough officials to enter said premises to inspect such sign.
(4)
The following changes to a sign do not require a permit:
(a)
The changing of movable parts of an approved changeable copy sign that is designed for such changes, or the repainting or reposting of display matter shall not be deemed an alteration, provided that the conditions of the original approval and requirements of this article are not violated.
(b)
The changing of the advertising copy or message of a painted, plastic face or printed sign only. Except for signs specifically designed for the use of replaceable copy, electric signs shall not be included in this exception.
(c)
The electrical, repainting or cleaning maintenance of a sign.
(d)
The repair of a sign.
(5)
Permit fees to erect a sign shall be in accordance with the fee schedule adopted by the Borough.
§ 160-95 Removal or abandonment of signs.
The owner of any property or premises upon which any sign is erected shall be responsible for its complete removal at such time as the circumstances which cause its erection to have ceased to exist or at such other time that the sign must be removed under any other provisions of this chapter. If the owner of any property upon which a sign has been erected shall fail or neglect to remove it as hereinabove required, the Zoning Officer shall give notice to remove the sign, by certified mail, to the owner. If this letter is returned undelivered for any reason, they may post such notice upon the premises. If, upon the expiration of 30 days following notice, the owner fails to remove the sign, the Zoning Officer shall arrange for its removal on behalf of the Borough and shall bill the owner for the cost of such work, plus 10% for administrative cost. If such bill remains unpaid after the expiration of 30 days, the Borough Solicitor shall take the necessary steps to collect the same. Failure of a property owner to remove such sign after the notice hereinabove provided shall constitute a violation of the terms of this chapter, and each day's continuance of such failure shall constitute a separate violation.
A.
If the owner of any sign in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter is not the owner of the premises on which it is situated, the identical notices specified above may be issued to them in like manner, and such owner of the sign shall be required to take such steps to comply with the notice or notices issued to them as though they were the owner of the property or premises on which the sign is located. If such owner of the sign fails to comply, such failure shall constitute a violation of the terms of this chapter. Such owner of the sign shall be liable to the same extent as the owner of the property or premises on which the sign is located.
§ 160-96 Unsafe and unlawful signs.
If the Code Enforcement Officer finds that any sign regulated herein is unsafe or insecure or is a menace to the public or has been constructed, erected or maintained in violation of the provisions of this chapter, they shall give notice to remove or alter the sign to comply with this chapter, in the same manner as § 160-95 above, to the party to whom the permit was issued to erect the sign or to the owner of the sign, or to any combination of them. If the parties notified fail to remove or alter the sign to comply with the standards herein set forth within 30 days after notice, such sign may be removed or altered by the Code Enforcement Officer at the expense of each and every person notified. The expenses of the removal or alteration shall be computed and paid for by the parties notified in the same manner as in § 160-95 above, and the same sanctions shall apply. The Code Enforcement Officer may cause any sign or other advertising structure which is in immediate peril to persons or property to be removed summarily and without notice.
§ 160-97 Posting of signs.
No person shall paint, paste, brand, stamp, or in any manner whatsoever, place on or attach to any tree, rock, electric, light, utility, traffic signal structure, or other pole on any street in the borough any written, printed, painted or other advertisement, bill, notice, sign, card, or poster.
§ 160-98 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are unlawful and prohibited:
A.
A sign that uses any method of illumination that can cause glare is prohibited, except in accordance with the following:
(1)
It must be so effectively shielded that glaring beams or rays of light are not directed to any portion of any street, highway or adjacent property or structure.
(2)
It must be less than 1/4 footcandle (0.25 cd/ft2), as measured from the curbline or shoulder,so as not to cause glare or impair the vision of any motorist or otherwise interfere with the driver's operation of his motor vehicle.
B.
Illumination of any sign shall be continuous during all times of illumination. No sign shall have a blinking or flashing illumination; provided, however, that changeable copy signs are not prohibited by reason of any blinking or flashing resulting from the changing of the message content or copy. It is understood that the message copy or content shall not blink or flash.
C.
No sign may use the words "stop," "look," "danger," or any word or character which attempts or appears to attempt to direct the movement of traffic, or which interferes with or resembles any government/regulatory sign, signal, or device within 75 feet of a public right-of-way or within 200 feet of a traffic control device, whichever is greater.
D.
Except for traffic control signals, red and green lights are prohibited within 75 feet of a public right-of-way or 200 feet of a traffic control device signal.
E.
Any banner, pennant or novelty sign or sign of any other type is prohibited across a public street or on any private property, except for such signs which are approved by the borough council, as a special exception, to be of general benefit to the borough or for public convenience, necessity, or welfare.
F.
Any sign suspended between poles which is either a banner, pennant or streamer is prohibited.
G.
Any banner-type sign suspended between poles and lighted by a series of lights is prohibited.
H.
Any sign is prohibited which does not conform to the requirements of the sign ordinance which was in effect when the sign was erected.
I.
Novelty signs, including, but not limited to, objects (i.e., tires, automobiles, food products, animals etc.), pennants, balloons, animated signs, and inflatable signs.
J.
Signs which emit smoke, visible vapors or particles, sound, odor, or open flames.
K.
Signs which are flashing, moving, animated, coursing, blinking, intermittent, rotating, spinning, moving, or revolving. Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors and streamers are included.
L.
Vehicular signs. This regulation does not include the use of business logos, identification or advertising on vehicles primarily and actively used for business purposes and/or personal transportation.
M.
Signs containing information on which it states or implies that a property may be used for any purpose not permitted under the provisions of this chapter in the zoning district in which the property to which the sign relates is located.
N.
Mechanical movement signs.
O.
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.
P.
Interactive signs.
Q.
Signs incorporating beacon or festoon lighting.
R.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or federal government.
S.
Feather flag sign.
T.
Message sequencing.
U.
Any sign that promotes illegal activity.
V.
Above-roof sign.
W.
Any on-premises sign permitted under this article shall be removed or replaced at such times as the original subject of the sign moves to a different location or goes out of business.
X.
Abandoned signs.
Y.
Human billboards.
§ 160-99 Regulations by sign type - permanent.
Governing provisions. If there is a contradiction in general standards or area and dimensional requirements between the provisions in this section and the provisions in § 160-100, Signs by district, the smaller or more restrictive standard shall apply.
A.
On-premises.
(1)
Canopy or awning signs.
(a)
General standards.
[1]
A canopy or awning without lettering or other advertising shall not be regulated as a sign.
[2]
Canopy or awning signs must be centered within or over architectural elements such as windows or doors.
[3]
No awning or canopy sign shall be wider than the building wall or tenant space it identifies.
[4]
Sign placement. Letters or numerals shall be located only on the front and side vertical faces of the awning or canopy.
[5]
Clearance. The lowest edge of the canopy or awning sign shall be at least eight feet above the finished grade.
[6]
Multi-tenant buildings. If awning or canopy signs are mounted on a multi-tenant building, all awning or canopy signs shall be similar in terms of height, projection, and style across all tenants in the building.
[7]
Graphics allowed. One sign may be displayed on each awning or canopy. It shall not exceed 40% of the area of the principal face of the awning or canopy, and it shall not exceed and shall be subtracted from the total sign area allowed for wall signs in the applicable zoning district:
[a]
Shall not project above, below, or beyond the edges of the face of the building wall or architectural element on which it is located, or beyond the edges of the awning on which it is displayed.
[b]
Shall not extend horizontally a distance greater than 60% of the width of the awning on which it is displayed.
(b)
Awning signs.
[1]
Location. An establishment and each occupant of a shopping center or multiuse building may display an awning on each street or highway frontage.
[2]
Height and width. Awnings shall clear sidewalks by at least eight feet (and may extend up to one-foot from the vertical plane formed by the curb or the street line).
[3]
Awnings may be nonilluminated or externally illuminated only by down directed and shielded light fixtures.
[4]
Awnings above the ground floor may be fixed, provided they do not project more than four feet from the face of the building.
[5]
Only one wall signs or awning sign is permitted per frontage.
(2)
Directional signs.
(a)
Directional signs may not contain any commercial messaging.
[1]
Area. No single directional sign shall exceed four square feet in area.
[2]
Height. Directional signs shall have a maximum height of five feet.
[3]
Illumination. Directional signs shall be nonilluminated.
(3)
Projecting sign.
(a)
Projecting signs are permitted, provided the area of such sign does not exceed one square foot for each two lineal feet of building frontage which is perpendicular to the sign. No projecting sign may extend in a vertical dimension above the roof line or highest architectural point of a building.
(b)
Projecting signs shall have a minimum clearance of 10 feet between the bottom of the sign and the ground and, if projecting over a public sidewalk, may project not more than 2/3 the width of the sidewalk.
(c)
Projecting 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 projecting sign may be used to substitute for one or more of the freestanding signs.
[1]
Projecting signs may not overhang any place for vehicular traffic (streets, loading docks, parking lots).
[2]
Projecting signs under canopies.
[a]
Signs attached to the underside of a canopy shall have a copy area no greater than eight square feet per side and a minimum clearance of 10 feet from the sidewalk, such signs shall be mounted as perpendicular as possible to the building face, except that on individual buildings with a gross floor area of 10,000 square feet or greater, the area of the sign may be increased to 20 square feet per side.
[b]
One under canopy sign shall be permitted for each entrance to a facility served by a canopy or other pedestrian walkway.
(4)
Window signs.
(a)
Permanent window signs shall not exceed 40% of the window. If a building contains multiple tenants, each tenant's sign shall not exceed 40% of window area.
(5)
Marquee signs.
(a)
Such signs shall be located only above the principal public entrance of a building facing a public street or parking lot.
(b)
No marquee shall be wider than the entrance it serves, plus two feet on each side.
(c)
No marquee shall extend closer to the curb than three feet.
(d)
Sign height.
[1]
No portion of a marquee sign shall extend vertically above the eave line.
[2]
The lowest edge of the marquee sign shall be at least 10 feet above the finished grade.
(e)
One marquee structure per building.
(f)
The sign must have an eight-foot minimum clearance above any portion of any walk directly below.
(6)
Freestanding signs.
(a)
One freestanding directory sign is permitted for each street frontage, provided that the total sign area on any one street frontage of any property in single and separate ownership shall not exceed 175 square feet.
(b)
The clearance or lowest edge of any freestanding pole banner sign shall be either less than four feet or greater than eight feet above the ground.
(c)
Freestanding monument signs shall be supported and permanently placed by embedding, anchoring, or connecting the sign in such a manner as to incorporate it into the landscape or architectural design scheme.
(d)
Sign placement.
[1]
All freestanding signs shall be setback 10 feet from the street line or height of the sign, whichever is greater, except for government/regulatory signs and government/regulatory signs.
[2]
No freestanding sign may occupy an area designated for parking, loading, walkways, driveways, fire lane, easement, cartway or the street line or other areas required to remain obstructed.
(e)
Freestanding signs may have changeable copy signs.
(f)
If the freestanding sign has electronic messaging, the regulations for changeable copy sign apply.
(g)
Freestanding signs shall include the street number and/or address of the property for which it advertises, at a minimum lettering height of four inches.
(7)
Changeable copy sign.
(a)
A changeable copy sign shall be displayed only as part of a freestanding or wall sign, subject to all regulations applying to those signs.
(b)
The changeable copy portion of the sign shall not exceed 1/3 of the total area of the wall or freestanding sign.
(c)
Any such device with alternating messages shall display each message for not less than five seconds.
(8)
Electronic message signs.
(a)
Electronic message center signs are permitted in the form of freestanding, monument, and wall signs, in accordance with the regulations established in § 160-99.
(b)
Height. A digital display shall have the same height limits as for other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(c)
Area:
[1]
When used as an on-premises sign, digital displays shall not exceed more than 30% of the total sign area permitted on the site.
(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]
Duration. The length of time each message may be displayed on a message center sign, digital display, or tri-vision board sign is a minimum 15 seconds for message center signs, digital displays, or tri-vision board signs.
[5]
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 § 160-94, Permits, construction/maintenance and violations.
(g)
The addition of any digital display to a nonconforming sign is prohibited.
(h)
Public service announcements: The owner of every digital sign may be asked 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.
(i)
Time and temperature signs.
[1]
Time and temperature signs shall be displayed only as a part of a freestanding or a wall sign, subject to all regulations applying to those signs.
[2]
Any such device with alternating messages shall display each message for not less than five seconds and shall not use red or green displays.
(9)
Public service and information signs.
(a)
Any such sign shall not exceed four square feet.
(10)
Flags.
(a)
Size. Maximum flag size is 24 square feet in residential districts, 35 square feet in all other districts.
(11)
Memorial signs, public monument or historical identification sign, plaques or tablets erected by the borough or commonwealth, including grave markers or other remembrances of persons or events not used for a commercial event plaque signs.
(12)
Pole banner.
(a)
General provisions. Pole banner signs that comply with the requirements in this subsection shall not be included in the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
[1]
Illumination. Illumination of any pole banner sign is prohibited.
[2]
Number. Up to two pole banners are permitted per pole or opposite side of pole.
[3]
Height.
[a]
When the pole banner's edge is less than 18 inches from the curb, the lowest edge of the pole banner shall be at least 14 feet above the finished grade.
[b]
When the pole banner's edge is greater than 18 inches from the curb, the lowest edge of the pole banner shall be at least eight feet above the finished grade.
[4]
Location.
[a]
No pole banner shall extend beyond the curb line.
[b]
Pole banners shall maintain a minimum of three-foot vertical clearance below any luminaries located on the pole measured from where the ballasts connect to the poles.
[c]
Pole banners shall not interfere with the visibility of traffic signals or signs.
[d]
No pole banner shall be located on a pole that has traffic or pedestrian control signals, streetlights, or electrical wiring.
[e]
No pole banner can be placed on any pole within the public right-of-way, or on any pole not erected by the owner.
[5]
Installation and maintenance.
[a]
All pole banners must be made of lightweight and durable fabrics with wind slits.
[b]
Pole banners that are frayed, torn, or faded so that they are no longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and will be required to be removed.
[6]
Pole banners may only be erected on private property.
(b)
Permit requirements.
[1]
An application for a pole banner permit must include the following:
[a]
A diagram or map of the specific poles to be used for pole banner installation and the streets on which the poles are located.
[b]
A proof of the pole banner design, including the banner's dimensions.
[c]
If brackets are to be installed, submit specifications for the bracket installation system.
(13)
Upper-level building identification signs.
(a)
Number: two signs per building.
(b)
Height: signs shall have a maximum height of 10 feet and shall not extend vertically beyond the eave line.
(c)
Signs shall be limited to buildings at least three stories in height and shall be located only on the top floor of such buildings.
[1]
Address sign shall be no larger than two square feet and be located on the front of any building.
(14)
Menu sign.
(a)
Menu signs serving drive through uses shall be internally illuminated.
(b)
Menu signs posted on walls of restaurants are considered wall signs.
(c)
Menu signs placed on sidewalks are considered portable signs.
(15)
Vehicular signs. No vehicular sign may be parked or displayed within the right-of-way or any parcel in the borough.
§ 160-100 Regulations by sign type - Nonpermanent.
A.
Temporary signs.
(1)
In residential zoning districts or on properties with residential uses in nonresidential zoning districts the following standards apply:
(a)
Limited duration yard sign.
[1]
Sign area shall not exceed sixteen 16 square feet.
[2]
Limited duration yard signs shall not exceed a height of six feet, shall not be illuminated, and shall not be displayed for longer than 90 days. The length of time that a limited duration yard sign is displayed may be extended an additional 90 days by a permit issued by the zoning officer for up to a maximum of one year from the date of the original permit.
[3]
Limited duration yard signs shall be set back a minimum of six feet from the property line or right-of-way. Not more than one limited duration signs are allowed per property.
[4]
No permit required.
(b)
Temporary yard sign. The sign area shall not exceed four square feet,
[1]
Sign height shall not exceed four feet, and the sign shall not be illuminated.
[2]
Not more than one sign are allowed per property.
[3]
Temporary yard signs shall have a minimum setback of two feet from the property line or right of way line.
[4]
Permit is required.
(2)
In nonresidential zoning districts with nonresidential uses, the following standards apply:
(a)
Limited duration yard sign. The sign area shall not exceed 12 square feet.
[1]
Sign height shall not exceed six feet. The sign shall not be illuminated or contain flashing or revolving lights.
[2]
A limited duration yard sign may not be displayed earlier than 30 days before the function for which they are erected.
[3]
The signs must be removed within five days after the function for which they were displayed, but in no case later than 30 days from the day they were displayed. The length of time displayed may extend another 30 days by a permit issued by the zoning officer to a maximum of one year from the original permit.
[4]
One sign is allowed per property per calendar year.
[5]
If the property is on a corner or otherwise has more than one front yard, then one additional sign is allowed for each additional front yard.
[6]
The sign shall be set back a minimum of three feet from the property line or right-of-way.
(b)
Temporary yard sign.
[1]
Sign area shall not exceed six square feet.
[2]
The sign height shall not exceed four feet. The sign shall not be illuminated and shall not be displayed for longer than 30 days.
[3]
Three signs are allowed per property except if the property is on a corner or has more than one front yard. One additional yard sign is allowed in each additional front yard.
[4]
The sign shall be set back a minimum of two feet from the property line or right-of-way.
(c)
Bunting and banner signs are permitted for 14 days provided that such signs do not extend into, or over, a right-of-way. All such signs must be removed after 14 days business after placement.
[1]
Banners shall not exceed eight feet in length and three feet in width.
(d)
Signs may not be displayed earlier than 30 days before the function for which they are erected. The signs must be removed within five days after the function for which they were displayed, but in no case later than 30 days from the day they were displayed.
B.
Portable signs.
(1)
General provisions.
(a)
Illumination of any portable sign is prohibited.
(b)
Any sign mounted to a vehicle or trailer is prohibited.
(c)
Hours of display.
[1]
Signs may only be displayed on any premises during normal business hours. However, all portable signs must be taken in during hours of non-operation of the business being advertised.
[2]
All portable signs should be taken in during inclement weather.
(2)
Sandwich board, wind, or A-frame signs. Sandwich board signs that comply with the requirements in this subsection shall not be included in the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
(a)
Number: one sandwich board sign is permitted per establishment. For the purposes of this subsection, a parking lot shall be considered an establishment.
(b)
Area: each sign shall have a maximum area of seven square feet per sign face.
(c)
Height: signs shall have a maximum height of 3.5 feet.
(d)
Sign placement.
[1]
If a sign is located on a public or private sidewalk, a minimum of three feet of unobstructed sidewalk clearance must be maintained between the sign and any building or other obstruction. Location must also comply with current Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
[2]
The sign must be located on the premises, and within 12 feet of the primary public entrance, of the establishment it advertises. For the purposes of this subsection, a public entrance includes a vehicular entrance into a parking lot.
[3]
Portable signs shall be weighted, temporarily secured, or strategically placed so as to avoid being carried away by high winds.
(e)
Changeable copy.
[1]
Changeable copy signs are permitted when integrated into a sandwich board sign.
[2]
Commercial messages must advertise only goods and services available on the premises.
§ 160-100.1 Signs by district.
A.
For the purposes of this chapter, the tables within this section will dictate the type of signs, and the area and dimensional requirements of said signs, that are permitted within each zoning district.
B.
General provisions applicable to all zoning districts.
(1)
All building-mounted signs shall be consistent and compatible with the style composition, materials, colors and details of the building and the purposes of this section.
(2)
The applicant shall comply with all applicable sign regulations of the underlying zoning district except as modified or supplemented by these regulations.
(3)
One off-premise sign is permitted on each parcel set back at least 100 feet from any residential district boundary and at least 200 feet from Diamond Street and 100 feet from Clymer Avenue.
Table 1 — Permitted Signs by District | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sign Type | District | ||||||
LR | MR | MR-1 | PR | NC | BC | LI | |
Awning | x | x | x | ||||
Banners | x | x | x | ||||
Canopy | x | x | x | ||||
Changeable copy | x | x | |||||
Directional | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Directory | x | x | x | ||||
Electronic Message | x | x | |||||
Flag | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Freestanding | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Gas Station Canopy | x | ||||||
Incidental | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Incidental Window | x | x | x | ||||
Limited Duration | x | x | x | x | x | x | |
Marquee | x | x | |||||
Memorial | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Menu | x | x | |||||
Monument | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Off Premise | x | ||||||
Pole Banner | x | x | x | ||||
Public Monument | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Projecting | x | x | x | ||||
Public Service & Informational | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Sandwich Board, Wind and A-Frame | x | x | x | ||||
Street Pole Banner | x | ||||||
Temporary Yard | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Time and Temperature | x | x | x | ||||
Upper level building | x | x | x | ||||
Wall | x | x | x | x | x | x | x |
Window | x | x | x | x | |||
§ 160-100.2 Signs in the LR Low Density, MR Medium Density, MR-1 Medium Density -1, PR Planned Residential Districts.
A.
On-premises signs. In residential districts, only the signs outlined in Table 1 shall be permitted.
B.
Signs shall also meet the requirements of §§ 100-99, Regulations by sign type-permanent and 100-100, Regulations by sign type-nonpermanent.
C.
Restrictions on type and placement of signs.
(1)
Within the LR, MR, MR-1, PR residential districts, no parcel shall have more than 20 square feet of signage total. Sign area may be comprised of any sign type permitted in the district, but total sign area shall not exceed 20 square feet.
Table 2 — Residential District Signs | |||
|---|---|---|---|
LR, MR, MR-1 PR | Area and Dimensional Requirements | ||
Sign Type | Maximum Number of Signs Permitted Per Property | Maximum Area - Square Feet | Maximum Height - Feet |
Directional | 2 | 4 | 5 |
Flag | 2 | 24 | — |
Freestanding | 1 per street frontage | 6 | 4 |
Incidental | 1 | 2 | 10 |
Limited duration | 2 | 16 | 6 |
Monument | 1 | 24 | 6 |
Public Monument | - | 7 | 4 |
Public Service and Information | 1 | 4 | 3.5 |
Portable - Residential | 1 | 4 | 3.5 |
Temporary Yard | 2 | 4 | 4 |
Wall | 1 | Max. sign area is 40% wall, but no more than 16 s.f. area; No tenant may have sign >6 s.f. if multitenant bldg | |
Window signs | 1 | 1 | — |
§ 160-100.3 Signs in the BC Borough Core, NC Neighborhood Commercial, and I Industrial districts.
A.
On-premises signs. In commercial and industrial districts, only the signs outlined in Table 1 shall be permitted.
B.
Signs shall also meet the requirements of §§ 160-99 and 160-100.
C.
Restrictions on type and placement of signs.
(1)
Within the NC Neighborhood Commercial District, no parcel shall have more than 35 square feet of signage total. Sign area may be comprised of any sign type permitted in the district, but total sign area shall not exceed 35 square feet.
(2)
Within the BC Borough Core District, no parcel shall have more than 40 square feet of signage total. Sign area may be comprised of any sign type permitted in the district, but total sign area shall not exceed 40 square feet.
(a)
For commercial buildings with multiple first floor tenant spaces in the BC District, each nonresidential unit may display 20 square feet of signage. If a space is divided or combined, each space may only display signage for the subject unit. Signage may not be combined between spaces. Nonresidential uses on the second floor of any multitenant building may display a sign at the common entrance to the second-floor spaces. Wall, window, and projecting signs are permitted.
(3)
Within the I Industrial District no parcel shall have more than 40 square feet of signage total. Sign area may be comprised of any sign type permitted in the district, but total sign area shall not exceed 40 square feet.
(a)
For industrial buildings with multiple tenant spaces in the I District, each unit may display 20 square feet of signage. If a space is divided or combined, each space may only display signage for the subject unit. Signage may not be combined between spaces. Wall, window, and projecting signs are permitted.
Table 3 — NC Neighborhood Commercial Upper-Level Building | |||
|---|---|---|---|
NC | Area and Dimensional Requirements | ||
Sign Type | Maximum Number of Signs Permitted Per Property | Maximum Area (s.f.) | Maximum Height (ft.) |
Awning | 1 | 40% principal face* | Lowest edge 8 ft above finished grade |
Banner | 1 | 8 ft. long x 2 ft. wide | - |
Canopy | 1 | 40% principal face* | Lowest edge 8 ft above finished grade |
Changeable copy | 1 | 1/3 area of wall or freestanding sign | 4 |
Directional | 1 per use | 4 | 5 |
Directory | 1 | 6 | 6 |
Electronic message | 1 | 1/3 of the total area of freestanding sign | - |
Flag | 1 | 35 | 20 |
Freestanding | 1 per frontage | 1 sf/ 2 ft lot frontage or 50 s.f. max. | 15 |
Gas station canopy | 1 | 40 | - |
Limited duration | 1 per frontage | 12 | 4 |
Marquee | 1 | 25 s.f.** | Eave line** |
Menu | 1 | 2 | — |
Monument | 1 | 1.5 per 1 ft. of linear frontage, max 25 s.f. | 6 |
Pole banner | 1 | 12.5 | — |
Projecting | 1 | 10 | Eave line** |
Public monument | - | 7 | 4 |
Public service and informational | 1 | 4 | 6 |
Sandwich board, wind, and A-frame | - | 7 | 3.5 |
Temporary yard | 2 | 6 | 16 |
Upper level building | 1 per frontage | 1 per 1 ft. of linear frontage | Eave line |
Wall | 1 | 4 sf/linear ft wall length; may not exceed 25% of wall area | Eave line** |
Window | - | 40% of window area | - |
* | Face is the length of the building. |
** | The sign shall be no higher than the eave line of the building or the bottom of the second-floor windowsill, whichever is lower. |
Table 4 — BC Borough Core District Signs | |||
|---|---|---|---|
BC | Area and Dimensional Requirements | ||
Sign Type | Maximum Number of Signs Permitted Per Property | Maximum Area (s.f.) | Maximum\Height (ft.) |
Awning | 1 | 40% principal awning face | Lowest edge shall be 8 ft. above finished grade |
Banner | 1 | 8 ft. long x 3 ft. wide | |
Canopy | 1 | 40% principal canopy face | Lowest edge shall be 8 ft. above finished grade |
Changeable copy | 1 | 1/3 area of wall or freestanding sign | - |
Directional | 1 per use | 4 | 5 |
Directory | 1 | 6 | 6 |
Electronic message | 1 | 1/3 of the total area of freestanding sign or monument | — |
Flag | 1 | 35 | 20 |
Freestanding | 1 per frontage | 1 per 2 ft. of lot frontage or 50 s.f. | 10 |
Freestanding - shopping center | 1 per frontage | 50 | - |
Limited duration | 1 per frontage | 12 | 6 |
Marquee | 1 | 50 | Eave line |
Menu | - | 2 | - |
Monument | 1 | 1.5 per 1 ft. of linear frontage | 6 |
Portable | 1 | 7 | 3.5 |
Pole banner | 1 | 12.5 | - |
Projecting | 1 | 1/2 linear foot of building | Eave line |
Public monument | - | 7 | 4 |
Public service & informational | 1 | 4 | 6 |
Sandwich board, wind, and a-frame | 1 | 7 | 3.5 |
Temporary yard | 1 per frontage | 6 | 4 |
Time & temperature | 1 | 10 | - |
Upper level building | 1 per frontage | 1 per 1 ft. of linear frontage | Eave line |
Wall | 1 | 4 s.f. per linear ft. wall length; may not exceed 25% of wall area | Eave line |
Window | 1 per use | 40% of window area | - |
Table 5 — I Industrial District Upper-Level Building | |||
|---|---|---|---|
I Industrial | Area and Dimensional Requirements | ||
Sign Type | Maximum Number of Signs Permitted Per Property | Maximum Area (s.f.) | Maximum Height (ft.) |
Awning | 1 | 40% of principal awning face | Lowest edge shall be 8 ft. above finished grade |
Banner | 1 | 8 ft. long x 2 ft. wide | - |
Canopy | 1 | 40% principal canopy face | - |
Directional | 2 | 4 | 5 |
Directory | 1 | 50 | - |
Flag | 1 | 35 | 20 |
Limited duration | 1 per frontage | 12 | 6 |
Marquee | 1 | 50 | - |
Monument | 1 per use | 15.5 ft per linear frontage 50 s.f. max | 6 |
Off premise | 1 | 24 | 10 |
Pole banner | 1 | 12.5 | - |
Projecting | 1 | 12.5 | Eave line |
Public monument | - | 7 | 4 |
Public service and informational | 1 | 4 | 6 |
Sandwich board, wind, and a-frame | 1 | 7 | 3.5 |
Temporary yard | 1 per frontage | 6 | 4 |
Time & temperature | 1 | 10 | |
Upper level building | 1 per frontage | 1 per 1 ft. of linear frontage | Eave line |
Wall | 1 | 40% wall area | - |
Window | 1 | 40% window area | - |
