Sturbridge City Zoning Code
PART 4
General Development Regulations
§ 300-14.1 General requirements.
[Amended 6-3-2024 ATM by Art. 36]
A.
No building or structure shall be constructed, erected, placed or converted to use on any lot in the Town unless the following requirements are met.
B.
All of these requirements must be met by land located entirely within the applicable zoning district.
C.
Except as otherwise provided in this bylaw, no residential use shall have a net floor area of living space per family of less than 750 square feet.
§ 300-14.2 Table of standards.
[Amended 6-3-2024 ATM by Art. 36]
Lot Size | Setbacks (feet) | Max. Lot Coverage (%) | Max. # Bldg. Stories | Max. Height (Mean) (feet) | Max. Impervious Surface | Min. Habitable Floor Area6 (square feet) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Area (acres) | Frontage (feet) | Street2 | Other | ||||||
Rural Residential | 1 | 150 | 30 | 20 | 15 | 2 | 35 | — | 750 |
Suburban Residential | 3/41 | 125 | 30 | 15 | 15 | 2 | 35 | — | 750 |
Commercial | 1 | 150 | 25 | 10 | 30 | 33 | 353 | 70% | 750 |
Commercial Tourist | 10,000 square feet | 100 | 25 | 10 | 30 | 33 | 353 | — | 750 |
Commercial II | 1 | 150 | 25 | 10 | 30 | 3 | 353 | 70% | 750 |
Historic Commercial | 1 | 200 | 50 | 20 | 30 | — | 35 | — | 750 |
General Industrial | 1 | 150 | 30 | 20 | 50 | 33 | 353 | 70% | 750 |
Industrial Park | 2 | 300 | 60 | 30 | 333 | 2 | 353 | 70% | 750 |
Special Use | 1 | 200 | 50 | 30 | 30 | — | 353 | — | 750 |
1 | 1/2 acre area allowed if lot is serviced by Town water and sewer. |
2 | Street line setbacks apply to all streets forming corner lots. |
3 | May be varied by special permit by the Planning Board. |
4 | Except as otherwise provided in this bylaw, no residential use shall have a net floor area of living space per family of less than 750 square feet. |
§ 300-15.1 Existing uses not affected.
This bylaw shall not apply to existing use of any building or structure, or of land to the extent of that use at the time of the adoption of this bylaw.
§ 300-15.2 Nonconforming uses and structures.
[Amended 4-28-2025 ATM by Art. 35]
The lawful use of any structure or land existing at the time of the enactment or subsequent amendment of this bylaw may be continued although such structure or use does not conform with provisions of this bylaw.
A.
Change in nonconforming use and structures.
(1)
A preexisting nonconforming structure or use may be extended, changed or altered, and subject to issuance of a special permit by the Zoning Board of Appeals. No such extension, change or alteration shall be permitted unless the Zoning Board of Appeals finds after a public hearing that such extension, change or alteration shall not be substantially more detrimental to the neighborhood than the existing nonconforming use.
(2)
In order to make such a finding, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall request from the petitioner any relevant surveys, studies or other documentation; and shall verify this information with other Town agencies and officials as necessary, to make the following determinations:
(a)
Baseline conditions. The extent to which the existing nonconforming structure or use does not currently conform to the requirements of the Zoning Bylaw with regard to permitted use, dimensional controls, parking, loading or other requirements.
(3)
In order to assist in making its decision, the Zoning Board of Appeals shall also review and consider information related to the following: traffic, noise, lighting, heat, glare and vibration, drainage, air quality, intensity of use, public nuisance, abutting uses, neighborhood character and environmental quality.
B.
Alteration of nonconforming residential structures.
(1)
Notwithstanding any other provisions of these bylaws, alteration, reconstruction, extension or structural change (collectively "alteration") of a preexisting, nonconforming single-family or two-family residential structure will be deemed not to increase the nonconforming nature of such a structure, and shall be permitted as of right, if:
(a)
The structure is located on a conforming lot, and the proposed alteration will comply in all respects with the bylaws; or
(b)
The structure is located on a legally nonconforming lot, and the proposed alteration will retain the structure's existing footprint, and will not increase the structure's existing envelope. "Envelope," as used herein, shall mean the outer surfaces of the existing structure.
(c)
The proposed alteration, reconstruction, extension or structural change consists of a separate accessory structure on a legally non-conforming lot where the proposed structure is not used for human occupancy, and will comply in all other respects with the bylaws.
(2)
Alteration of a preexisting, nonconforming single-family or two-family residential structure, where such alteration cannot be made as of right, may be made without the necessity of obtaining a special permit pursuant to Subsection A, if the Zoning Board of Appeals determines that such alteration will not increase the nonconforming nature of the structure. If the Zoning Board of Appeals does not make this determination, the applicant may seek a special permit pursuant to Subsection A.
C.
Replacement of destroyed buildings.
(1)
Any preexisting nonconforming nonresidential building, including an otherwise conforming nonresidential building on a nonconforming lot, that is destroyed by fire, explosion, the act of public enemy or act of God, may be reconstructed as a matter of right, provided that the reconstruction must be within the then-existing building footprint and must not exceed the then-existing building envelope. Said reconstruction of the building must be under construction within two years of the date of casualty.
D.
Abandonment. A nonconforming use which has been discontinued for a period of two years or more shall not be re-established. Any future use shall conform to the requirements of this bylaw at the time of the establishment of the new use.
E.
Changes. Once changed to a conforming use, no structure or land shall be permitted to revert to a nonconforming use.
§ 300-15.3 Width of lot.
§ 300-15.4 Reduction of lot size.
No lot shall be changed or reduced in area or shape so that it does not conform to the provisions of this bylaw, except that any single lot or parcel on which two or more houses were standing at the time of the adoption of this bylaw may be divided into separate lots, conforming as nearly as possible to this bylaw on each of which one of such houses remains standing, provided that each lot has at least 20 feet of frontage on a public way.
§ 300-15.5 Lots of less than required width or area.
Certain previously recorded or approved lots having an area or frontage of lesser amount than required by this bylaw may be built upon under the conditions set forth in MGL c. 40A, § 6.
§ 300-15.6 Dwellings.
Not more than one building designed or available for use for dwelling purposes shall be erected or placed, or converted to use as such on any lot in a subdivision, or elsewhere in the Town without the consent of the Planning Board, which consent shall be conditional upon the providing of adequate ways furnishing access to each site for such building, in the same manner as otherwise required for lots within a subdivision. Conditions pertaining to the location of building on a lot, additional setbacks from the lot lines and an impact statement may be required by the Planning Board.
§ 300-15.7 Accessory buildings.
A.
An accessory building attached to its principal building shall be considered an integral part of the principal building and as such shall be subject to the open space requirements applicable to the principal building.
B.
No accessory building or structure shall be located within the required setback from street line nor within the required setback from lot lines.
§ 300-15.8 Trailer coaches.
[Amended 6-3-2024 ATM by Art. 36]
A.
Not more than one trailer coach may be kept on any parcel of land. No trailer coach may be used as living quarters while so located. Space shall not be leased for trailer coaches; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not prohibit the establishment of a trailer coach park under provisions of this bylaw and other relevant state statutes and local regulations.
B.
The removal of wheels from a mobile home or trailer and the placing of the same on any type of permanent foundation will not change the character of the building and the prohibition of the bylaw will apply to such structures.
§ 300-15.9 Projections.
Nothing in this bylaw shall prevent the projection of steps, eaves, cornices, window sills, awnings or belt courses into any required setback from street line nor within the required setback from lot lines.
§ 300-15.10 Obstruction of view.
No sign, fence, tree, wall, hedge or other vegetation, and no building or other structure more than 3 1/2 feet above the established street grades shall be erected, placed or maintained within the area formed by any intersecting street lines and in a straight line adjoining said street lines at points which are 25 feet distance from the point of intersection, measured along said street lines.
§ 300-15.11 Prohibited uses.
Notwithstanding any other provision or provisions of this bylaw to the contrary, no building or structure shall be constructed and no building, structure or land, or part thereof, shall be used for any of the following purposes in any zoning district:
§ 300-15.12 Fences.
A.
No fence more than four feet six inches high may be constructed without first securing a building permit.
B.
A building permit may be denied for any fence which, in the judgment of the Building Inspector:
C.
No fence may be constructed closer than one foot to any lot line or street line.
D.
No fence shall be constructed which creates an obstruction to view under the provisions of § 300-15.10 of this bylaw.
E.
A fence which is set on and serves as a boundary line between any two lots or lot and the street line constructed solely of dry-laid stone not more than three feet high shall be exempt from this bylaw.
F.
Jersey barriers may not be used for fencing, except by a governmental agency.
§ 300-15.13 Driveways.
All driveways shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 250, Article V, of the Town bylaws and the following:
§ 300-16.1 Purpose.
A.
The purpose of this article is to provide standards that will lead to the provision of adequate parking to support various land uses within the Town without the creation of excessive paved areas. These standards, when applied, shall accommodate automobile, pedestrian and bicycle access in a safe and aesthetically appealing manner by mitigating the effects of large commercial parking lots.
B.
No building permit or certificate of occupancy shall be issued for the erection of a new building, the enlargement or increase in the net floor area of an existing building, the development of a use not located in a building or the change from one type of use to another, unless off-street parking spaces, loading bays and bicycle parking are provided in accordance with this bylaw.
§ 300-16.2 Motor vehicle parking.
A.
This article establishes the standards for the amount, location and development of parking areas within the Town of Sturbridge and shall apply to all parking lots developed within the Town.
B.
Parking lots shall be provided on the same lot or on another lot located in a zone in which the parking area is permitted within a radius of not more than 300 feet from the lot to which it is appurtenant and in accordance with the shared parking requirements in § 300-16.10. Properties within the Commercial Tourist District shall not be required to comply with the 300-foot limitation, but may share parking anywhere within the district.
C.
Parking shall not be located within the applicable setback requirements in any district except for single residential use. Additionally, pedestrian lanes five feet wide must be located adjacent to the front and sides of such buildings to allow for handicapped passage without parking interference except for buildings for single residential use.
D.
Any two driveways leading to or from a street from a single lot shall not be within 30 feet of each other at their intersection with the front lot line (street line).
E.
There shall not be any storage of material or equipment or display of merchandise within the required parking spaces.
§ 300-16.3 Space dimensions.
A.
The following dimensions shall apply:
(1)
Standard spaces shall have an area of not less than 10 feet by 20 feet per vehicle.
(2)
Parallel parking spaces shall have an area of not less than nine feet by 20 feet.
(3)
Compact/Small car parking spaces shall have an area of not less than eight feet by 16 feet.
(4)
Universal access spaces shall have an area of not less than 12 feet by 18 feet.
(5)
Truck parking spaces shall have an area of not less than 12 feet by 72 feet.
B.
When required, loading spaces shall have an area of not less than 10 feet by 30 feet and 14 feet height clearance.
§ 300-16.4 Drive aisles and maneuvering space.
A.
Two-way driving lanes shall be a minimum of 25 feet wide for angle parking. One-way driving lanes shall be a minimum of 18 feet wide for angle parking. A twenty-four-foot-wide driving lane is required for perpendicular parking. Dead-end parking lanes shall be avoided; however, if they are necessary, turnarounds shall be provided at their ends.
B.
Sufficient maneuvering space shall be provided such that vehicles shall not have to back into a public way or across a public sidewalk in order to enter or exit any parking area. Space for snow removal activities shall be provided in addition to the required parking and maneuvering space.
§ 300-16.5 Surface materials and space delineation.
A.
The parking lot and access driveways thereto shall be surfaced with crushed stone or bituminous or cement concrete material or other material acceptable to the Board and shall be graded and drained so as to dispose of all surface water accumulation in accordance with acceptable engineering practices. To ensure safety, berms must be placed as required by the Planning Board except for parking lots for single residential use.
B.
A substantial bumper of masonry, steel, heavy timber, concrete curb or berm curb which is backed shall be placed at the edge of surfaced areas except driveways in order to protect abutting structures, properties and sidewalks.
C.
All paved parking lots shall be striped to delineate parking spaces. In cases where the lot is not paved, parking spaces shall be delineated by the use of appropriate berms or landscape timbers or other method acceptable to the Board.
§ 300-16.6 Lighting.
A.
All parking lots and main pedestrian routes shall be suitably lighted. Lights shall be appropriately styled, shall be partial or full cut-offs and shall be energy efficient. Illumination levels shall conform with Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) standards.
B.
Where practical, exterior lighting installations shall include timers, dimmers, sensors or photocell controllers that turn lights off during daylight hours or during hours when lighting is not needed, to reduce overall energy consumption and eliminate unneeded lighting. For typical business parking lots, after active hours, illuminance should be no greater than required for security purposes. In the case of one (or more) tenants staying open beyond the hours of the majority of the property, appropriate levels of lighting shall be maintained for security and safety of those working at and visiting the establishment.
§ 300-16.7 Electric vehicle parking.
An electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) shall be allowed within any legal single-family or multiple-family residential driveway, garage or carport. EVCS may be installed within any existing legal commercial parking space subject to the following:
A.
The EVCS shall be protected as necessary to prevent damage by automobiles.
B.
The EVCS shall have complete instructions and appropriate warnings posted in an unobstructed location next to each EVCS.
C.
The EVCS shall be located in a manner that will be easily seen by the public for informational and security purposes and shall be illuminated during evening business hours.
D.
The EVCS shall be located in desirable and convenient parking locations that will serve as an incentive for the use of electric vehicles.
E.
Complete instructions and appropriate warnings concerning the use of the EVCS shall be posted on a sign in a prominent location on each station for use by the operator.
F.
One standard nonilluminated sign, not to exceed four square feet in area and 10 feet in height, may be posted for the purpose of identifying the location of each cluster of EVCSs.
G.
The EVCS may be on a timer that limits the use of the station to the normal business hours of the use(s) that it serves to preclude unauthorized use after business hours.
§ 300-16.8 Pedestrian circulation.
A.
It is important to remember that drivers become pedestrians once they park their cars and that they must walk to the facility for which the parking is provided. Parking lots shall include a clearly delineated, properly constructed pedestrian system to bring people from their cars to the facility.
B.
Pedestrian walkways, streets, driveways, terraces and parking areas shall be carefully designed to provide an inviting and stable appearance, with respect to topography, proper relation to surrounding streets and pedestrian ways, number of access points to public streets, provision of a clear and efficient street system on the site, adequate widths of drives and street, separation and attractive parking lots and proper relationship of circulation elements to structures and other site features. Universal accessibility shall be provided in conformance with state regulations and federal guidelines (AAB and ADA). The use of architectural treatments such as stamped concrete, pavers or bricks is highly encouraged for walkways and crosswalks within the site.
C.
Sidewalks should not only be provided within the site but should also be provided along the frontage of the property abutting any roadway.
§ 300-16.9 Parking lot landscaping.
A.
Buffering. Parking spaces, driveways, buildings, structures and storage materials shall not be allowed within the front setback, and the area of the front setback shall be a buffer, and landscaped as such. Landscaping of the frontage buffer shall consider the need for proposed or future sidewalk installations. The buffer shall allow for necessary access to the site, but driveways shall otherwise not be allowed in the buffer.
B.
Interior parking lot landscaping. Interior areas of parking lots (exclusive of buffer areas) shall be landscaped according to the following percentage of total parking lot areas:
Lots under 20 parking spaces | 0.0% |
Lots equal to or over 20 spaces | 5.0% |
Lots equal to or over 100 spaces | 7.5% |
Lots equal to or over 200 spaces | 10.0% |
(1)
The landscaping shall be located in bermed/protected areas, such as along walkways, in center islands, at the ends of bays or between parking stalls. A mixture of hardy ornamental or deciduous shade trees must be planted. A minimum of one shade tree is required for every 10 parking spaces.
(2)
No landscaping island shall be less than 10 feet wide. No landscaping strip separating parking bays shall be less than eight feet wide. Only hardy ground cover or mulch shall be placed within a two-foot area under any potential car over-hang, to avoid the burning of landscape plantings. In no case shall a tree be set back less than four feet from paved areas.
(3)
The Planning Board encourages the use of large planting islands (over 600 square feet) to be located throughout the lot and planted with shade trees, low shrubs and/or ground cover. Uninterrupted parking rows should generally not exceed 10 spaces, but in no case should they exceed 15 spaces.
(4)
The location of landscaping islands shall not interfere with the need to conduct firefighting operations. All landscape plans shall require the approval of the Fire Department for this purpose. Interior and bermed landscape areas cannot be designated as snow storage areas; sufficient open lawn area shall be provided for this purpose.
(5)
Where quality woodland exists, the Planning Board requires that it be preserved in the prescribed buffer areas along the perimeter of the lot, and additional evergreen shrubs shall be required if needed.
C.
Additional requirements for lots over 200 spaces.
(1)
Parking lots over 200 spaces shall consider the creation of multiple, separated parking areas. These areas shall be separated by landscaping elements and/or differences in grade, and shall be naturally screened from one another.
(2)
Separate pedestrian walkways shall be provided to allow safe movement within the lots. These walkways should generally be oriented perpendicular to and between parking bays. Adjacent to the walks, trees should be planted. These plantings will aid in the identification of the walkway locations within the lot and also aid in providing shade for the pedestrian. The following guidelines apply to the development of walkways within large parking lots:
(a)
One walkway can serve as a collector for up to four bays of parked cars.
(b)
The walkway should be a minimum of four feet wide.
(c)
All walkways should be raised to a standard sidewalk height and should be constructed of different paving material than the parking lot, and should be handicap accessible.
(d)
All walkways shall be maintained at all times and remain accessible to pedestrians at all times unless otherwise approved by the Board.
(3)
A five-year landscape maintenance plan detailing the maintenance and replacement of defective plantings, commencing the year the site has received its final occupancy permit, shall be submitted as part of the application.
§ 300-16.10 Shared parking.
Parking spaces required for one use shall not be considered as providing the required facilities for any other use, except as hereinafter provided. Any existing parking 120% or above of parking otherwise required for all uses on a property may be shared or leased by right. Where existing parking spaces are more than 100% but less than 120% of parking otherwise required for all on-site uses, applicants for a site plan review approval or special permit may request to share and/or lease the parking spaces, based on the following conditions:
A.
Parking spaces to be shared represent the difference between peak parking needs generated by on-site uses occurring at different times. This may include reductions in parking use resulting from employees, tenants, patrons or other parking users of the site being common to and shared by more than one different use on the site; and/or
B.
Parking spaces to be shared represent the difference between current levels of peak parking utilization and anticipated lower future levels of peak parking utilization, said difference to be generated in whole or in part by a parking management plan approved by the permit granting authority. Said plans shall include and implement measures such as car and van pooling, bicycling and public transit. The permit granting authority may require periodic documentation of reductions in parking utilization realized as a result of the parking management plans.
C.
The shared or leased parking is suitably located in the neighborhood in which it is proposed, as deemed appropriate by the permit granting authority.
D.
The shared parking spaces may only be located in a zone in which the parking area is permitted.
E.
An agreement, lease, deed, contract or easement establishing shared use of a parking facility shall be submitted to and approved by the Planning Board. The approved agreement shall be recorded in the Registry of Deeds, as applicable, prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit for the project.
F.
In the event that a shared parking agreement is terminated, those uses with less than the required number of spaces shall notify the Planning Board within 14 days and do one of the following:
(1)
Provide at least 50% of the required parking within 60 days and provide the remaining required parking within six months following termination of the shared use agreement; or
(2)
Demonstrate to the Planning Board, using a study deemed reliable by the Board, that the available parking is sufficient to accommodate the use's peak parking demand.
§ 300-16.11 Parking spaces required.
A.
Commercial Tourist District. Properties within the Commercial Tourist District shall not be required to comply with the current parking requirements for the continued use for a same or similar use that exists at the time of adoption of this article. A proposed change shall require review by the Planning Board and a determination of practical parking requirements for the proposed use given the constraints of the district. Factors such as shared parking, peak parking demands of uses at different times of the day or week and actual projected parking needs shall be considered when determining practical parking requirements. The Town Planner, Zoning Enforcement Officer and DPW Director shall review such parking proposals and make recommendations to the Planning Board on the parking proposals. The intent of this section of the bylaw is to encourage the continued use and reuse of buildings within the Commercial Tourist District.
B.
Parking calculations. With the exception of properties located within the Commercial Tourist District as noted above, the following schedule of parking requirements shall apply. Please note that the number of parking spaces is computed based on the primary uses on the site.
Use Categories | Specific Uses | Minimum Required |
|---|---|---|
Residential Categories | ||
Dwelling unit | 2 | |
Accessory dwelling unit | 1 per unit | |
Senior housing | 1 per unit | |
Bed-and-breakfast | 1 per guest room in addition to the 2 for the residence | |
Retail and Service | ||
Hotel, inn, motel | 1 per room and 1 per employee | |
Retail | 1 per 200 square feet of gross floor area | |
Personal service | 1 per 200 square feet of gross floor area; in the case of a hair salon or barber shop the ratio shall be 1 per 200 square feet or 2 per chair, whichever is greater | |
Health clubs, gyms and fitness centers | 1 per 4 occupants based upon the maximum allowable occupancy | |
Theaters | 1 per 10 seats | |
Bank or other financial institution | 1 per 400 square feet of floor area | |
Veterinarian | 1 space for every 2 employees, plus 1 space per doctor, plus 1 space per examination room | |
Office | ||
General office | 1 per 500 square feet and 1 per employee working on the largest shift | |
Corporate office | 1.1 per employee | |
Medical/Dental office | 1 per 300 square feet of floor area or 2 per exam room and 1 per employee | |
Other Commercial | ||
Restaurant, cafe, tavern, microbrewery | 1 per 3 seats and 1 per employee working on the largest shift | |
Miniature golf | 1 per hole and 1 per employee | |
Commercial outdoor recreation | 1 space for every 3 persons that the outdoor facilities are designed to accommodate when used to maximum capacity | |
Indoor family amusement centers | 3 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space for each 2 licensed game machines | |
Vehicle repair | 2 spaces per service bay plus 1 space per employee working on the largest shift | |
Vehicle sales and service | 2 spaces per service bay plus 1 space per employee working on the largest shift, plus 1 space for each vehicle allowed for sale by the license | |
Art studio/class space | 1 per studio and 1 per 3 students if classes are provided | |
Industrial | ||
Manufacturing and production | 1 per 2 employees | |
Warehouse and wholesale | 1 per 2 employees | |
Institutional | ||
Long-term care facility | 1 space for 4 beds and 1 per employee working on the largest shift |
C.
Reasonable and appropriate off-street parking requirements for structures and land uses which do not fall within the categories listed under this section shall be determined, in each case, by the Planning Board as part of the special permit or site plan approval process, which shall consider all factors entering into the parking needs of such use.
§ 300-16.12 Reductions in required parking.
A decrease in the number of off-street parking spaces required by this article may be granted as part of the special permit or site plan approval process, provided that the following criteria have been met:
A.
The purpose and intent of the bylaw is met.
B.
The amount of off-street parking to be provided will be sufficient to serve the use(s) for which it is intended.
C.
The decrease in required off-street parking is based on a parking study prepared by a registered professional engineer. The parking study will include, at a minimum, the following:
D.
If the Planning Board allows a decrease in the amount of required off-street parking, it may require that a portion of the site be reserved to meet the off-street parking spaces required by this bylaw. The reserved area shall not be developed and shall either be landscaped or maintained in its natural state.
§ 300-16.13 Bicycle racks.
For all parking lots of 10 or more parking spaces, it is encouraged that the installation of bicycle racks be provided. The bike racks shall be designed to provide for the locking of bikes to the racks. The design, location and number of bike racks shall be approved by the permit granting authority as part of an approval of the permit request.
§ 300-16.14 Drive-thru facilities.
A.
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to regulate drive-thru facilities by imposing certain performance standards to ensure that the design and operation of such uses effectively mitigate problems commonly associated with drive-thru facilities, such as traffic congestion, excessive pavement, noise from idling cars and amplification equipment, lighting and queued traffic interfering with on-site and off-site traffic and pedestrian flow.
B.
Applicability. These standards apply to the construction of any drive-thru within the Town of Sturbridge, whether allowed by right or by special permit. The size of the site or the size and location of existing structures and abutting structures may make it impossible to meet the requirements of this section.
C.
General development standards. The development standards in this section are intended to supplement the standards in the underlying zoning district where the drive-thru is proposed. In the event of conflict between these standards and the underlying zoning district standards, the provisions of this section shall apply.
(1)
Drive-thru aisles shall have a minimum ten-foot interior radius at curves and a minimum twelve-foot width.
(2)
Each drive-thru entrance/exit shall be at least 50 feet from an intersection of public rights-of-way, measured at the closest intersecting curbs, and at least 25 feet from the curb-cut on an adjacent property.
(3)
Each entrance to a drive-thru aisle and the direction of traffic flow shall be clearly designated by signs and pavement markings.
(4)
Each drive-thru aisle shall be separated from the circulation routes necessary for ingress or egress from the property, or access to a parking space.
D.
Stacking lane standards. These regulations ensure that there is adequate on-site maneuvering and circulation areas, ensure that stacking vehicles do not impede traffic on abutting streets, and that stacking lanes will not have nuisance impacts on abutting residential lands.
(1)
In general, views of the stacking lanes from the street should be minimized.
(2)
Drive-thru windows shall provide at least 180 feet of stacking space for each facility, as measured from the service window or unit to the entry point into the drive-up lane. Non-food and/or non-beverage businesses may reduce the stacking space to a minimum of 60 feet.
(3)
Stacking lanes and their circulation may include escape lanes at logical and functional locations for drive-thru uses.
(4)
Stacking lanes must be designed so that they do not interfere with parking and vehicle circulation and shall be separated from circulation routes necessary for ingress and egress from the property or to access a parking space.
(5)
The entrance to the stacking lanes and the direction of traffic flow shall be clearly identified, through the use of means such as striping, landscaping and signs.
(6)
Double drive-thru lanes may be acceptable if they do not interfere with smooth and safe pedestrian and vehicular traffic circulation.
E.
Landscaping of the drive-thru aisles. Landscaping shall be provided as described below and this shall be in addition to the parking lot landscaping requirements noted above:
(1)
A five-foot-wide planter or other suitable landscape area between the drive-thru aisle and the parking area that includes shade trees consistent with those used in the parking area.
(2)
A minimum three-foot-tall, maximum four-foot-tall planter or other suitable landscape area with low shrubs that screens the drive-thru aisles from the abutting public right-of-way shall be used to minimize the visual impact of readerboard signs and directional signs. At no time shall this landscape barrier be pruned in a manner that allows the vehicle headlights from the drive-thru lane to be visible from abutting street rights-of-way. Plantings should also be designed to discourage potential safety issues (e.g., persons lying in wait).
(3)
Pedestrian access and crossings. Pedestrian access shall be provided from each abutting street to the primary entrance with a continuous four-foot-wide sidewalk or delineated walkway. Pedestrian walkways should not intersect the drive-thru drive aisles, but where they do the walkways shall have clear visibility and shall be delineated by textured and colored paving.
F.
Hours of operation. With the exception of drive-up ATM windows, when located on a site within 100 feet of any residential property (measured from the nearest property lines), hours of operation for the drive-up/drive-thru service shall be limited from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. If the use is located greater than 100 feet from a residential use, then there are no restrictions on the hours of operation. The special permit granting authority may grant exceptions in the special permit after preparation of a qualified noise study.
G.
Signs. Signs shall be permitted in accordance with the provisions of Part 4, Article XVII. Double drive-thru aisles shall be restricted to two menu/order board signs. All menu boards shall be located close to the order station and be properly integrated with the design of the building and appropriate landscaping.
H.
Parking. The provision of drive-thru service facilities shall not justify a reduction in the number of required off-street parking spaces for the accompanying use.
I.
Noise. Any drive-up or drive-thru speaker system shall emit no more than 50 decibels and at no time shall any speaker system be audible above daytime ambient noise levels beyond the property lines of the site. The system shall be designed to compensate for ambient noise levels in the immediate area.
§ 300-17.1 Purpose and intent.
A.
The purpose of this Sign Bylaw is to provide an appropriate balance between public and private interests in a manner that promotes the health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the Town of Sturbridge and in a manner that recognizes the importance of business advertising, through signs, by acknowledging that signs and their message must be visible and comprehensible in order to provide identification and thus assuring that the intended audience is able to find their way.
B.
To accomplish this purpose it is the intent of this bylaw to:
(1)
Promote the creation of an attractive visual environment that promotes a healthy economy by:
(2)
Protect and enhance the physical appearance of the community in a lawful manner that recognizes the rights of property owners by:
(3)
Foster public safety along public and private streets within the community by assuring that all signs are in safe and appropriate locations.
(4)
Have administrative review procedures that are the minimum necessary to:
(a)
Balance the community's objectives and regulatory requirements with business's needs for advertising and wayfinding.
(b)
Allow for consistent enforcement of the Sign Bylaw.
(c)
Provide some flexibility as to the number and placement of signs so the regulations are more responsive to business needs while maintaining the community's standards.
§ 300-17.2 Permit required; applicability.
No sign, except those qualifying for permit exceptions, shall be constructed, erected, remodeled, refaced, relocated, expanded or otherwise altered until a sign permit has been obtained from the Building Inspector in accordance with the provisions of this article. In addition to the requirements for all signs as set forth herein, commercial signage shall be specifically subject to those requirements set forth in § 300-17.6A and § 300-17.7.
§ 300-17.3 Exemptions.
The following types of signs shall be authorized by right without the necessity of a permit. These signs shall be subject to the prohibitions set forth in § 300-17.4 along with all other requirements of this bylaw.
A.
Signs bearing the name of an occupant of a dwelling not to exceed 1 1/2 square feet in area.
B.
Real estate signs not to exceed six square feet in area in a Residential District or 30 square feet in area in nonresidential districts. Real estate signs shall not be placed on property other than the property that is for sale, except that real estate open house signs may be placed on property other than the property that is for sale, with the approval of the property owner, on the day of the open house for a duration of no more than two hours longer than the time period of the open house.
C.
Signs accessory to the use of the premises by a church, educational or charitable institution. These signs, however, are expected to conform to the spirit and intent of the bylaw.
D.
Signs erected by the municipal, county, state, or federal government, as may be deemed necessary for their respective functions, are exempt from the provisions of this bylaw, but are expected to conform to the spirit and intent of it.
E.
Signs indicating "entrance," "exit," "parking," or the like, erected on a premises for the direction of persons or vehicles not to exceed five square feet in area. Such signs shall not carry the name of the business, a trade or service mark or any product designation unless such identification is necessary to differentiate one area from another, such as assigned parking on multi-tenant properties.
F.
Private drive signs. On-premises private drive signs are limited to one per drive entrance, not exceeding two square feet in area.
G.
Signs installed on property where a contractor is working may be maintained on the premises while construction is in progress. Such a sign shall not exceed 12 square feet and shall not be installed in the setback. These signs shall be removed within seven days of work completion at a property site.
H.
Signs required by federal or state law.
I.
Signs erected within a building.
J.
Nonilluminated window signs not to exceed 25% of the individual window area, or 16 square feet, whichever is smaller. No signs shall be permitted in the window area of entrance and exit doors except for matters of public safety or security, and/or public information (for example hours of operation, credit cards accepted, etc.).
K.
Political signs. Such signs may be displayed for a period not to exceed six weeks prior to any election, shall be removed within 14 days following that election and are expected to conform to the spirit and intent of this bylaw.
§ 300-17.4 Prohibited signs.
The following signs are prohibited in the Town:
A.
Moving or animated signs. A sign which is designed to align itself with the wind for structural reasons shall not be considered a moving sign.
B.
Flashing, moving and animated signs, including oscillating, rotating lights, strings of lights, whirligigs and signs containing reflective elements which sparkle in the sunlight.
C.
Graphics which by color, location or design resemble or conflict with traffic control signs or signals.
D.
Signs that are mounted on vehicles or other moveable devices or objects except as permitted in Subsection N.
F.
Internally illuminated signs.
G.
Devices, structures or symbols that are meant to attract people's attention to a proprietor's products or services in excess of the number otherwise permitted by this bylaw.
H.
Neon or tube signs or outlining, other than hotel/motel vacancy signs or no-vacancy signs.
I.
Advertising signs tacked, posted, painted or otherwise attached to poles, posts, trees, sidewalks, curbs, rocks, radio, television or water towers, lighting structures or other similar poles or structures.
J.
Temporary colored string light type displays used to outline or ornament buildings, trees or shrubbery except in the period from November 15 to January 15 of the ensuing year. Such displays shall be illuminated only from dusk to 12:00 midnight during this period. This prohibition shall not apply to the use of white lights to accent an entryway, walkway or other feature of a building or business, regardless of the time of year.
K.
Outdoor internally illuminated vending machines.
L.
Halo signs, being signs that are illuminated from behind, creating a silhouette or outline.
M.
Banners or signs painted on or temporarily affixed to a nonregistered motor vehicle or trailer for the purpose of providing a sign for a business or commercial purpose.
N.
No commercial or industrial sign shall be erected on, or attached to any vehicle except for signs applied directly to the surface of the vehicle. The primary use of such vehicle shall be in the operation of a business and not in advertising or identifying the business premises. The vehicle shall not be parked in a public right-of-way for the purposes of advertising.
O.
Any sign advertising a business or organization which is either defunct or no longer located on the premises.
P.
Digital or electronic signs.
Q.
Balloon signs or inflatable signs except as may be permitted for grand openings (See § 300-17.8B.).
R.
Signs containing noise-making devices.
S.
Laser/Holographic signs.
T.
Strings of pennants.
§ 300-17.5 Requirements applicable to all districts.
A.
General.
(1)
Permits for signs serving uses dependent upon special permits, exceptions and/or design review approval shall not be granted by the Building Inspector until such permits and approvals have been issued or approved by the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, Design Review Committee and/or Historical Commission, as applicable.
(2)
No sign shall cause visual confusion, glare or offensive lighting in the neighborhood.
(3)
Lighting of a sign may only be by white light of reasonable intensity shielded and directed solely at the sign.
(4)
The sign shall be placed so that it will not obstruct the view of traffic entering or leaving the premises. No sign, including its supporting structure, extending more than 3 1/2 feet above the established street grades shall be erected, placed or maintained within the area formed by any intersecting street lines and a straight line adjoining said street lines at points which are 25 feet distant from the point of intersection, measured along such street lines.
(5)
It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that all signs placed on his property are installed in compliance with the bylaws, that said signs are maintained in safe and presentable condition.
(6)
No freestanding sign shall exceed 18 feet in height above the natural grade. No sign shall project above the ridge line of the primary building on the property.
(7)
Building-mounted signs shall be erected and maintained as follows:
(a)
Signs parallel to or against the face or wall of a building shall not extend more than 15 inches from said face or wall. Said signs extending over a public sidewalk shall be not less than eight feet above the sidewalk at the lowest point.
(b)
Signs perpendicular to the face or wall of a building shall extend no more than 54 inches from such building line. Said signs extending over a public sidewalk shall be not less than eight feet above the sidewalk at the lowest point.
(8)
All signs shall meet all safety requirements associated with construction.
(9)
All signs shall be consistent with the requirements of the Zoning Bylaw.
B.
Area of signs.
(1)
The area of a sign shall be considered to include all lettering, wording and accompanying designs and symbols, together with the background on which they are displayed, any frame around the sign and any "cutouts" or extensions, but shall not include any supporting structure or bracing.
(2)
The area of sign consisting of individual letters or symbols attached to or painted on a surface, building, wall or window shall be considered to be that of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters and symbols.
(3)
The area of a sign which is other than rectangular in shape shall be determined as the area of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all elements of said sign.
(4)
The area of a sign consisting of a three-dimensional object shall be considered to be the area of the largest vertical cross-section of that object.
(5)
Only one side shall be counted in computing the area of a double-faced sign.
C.
Sign setbacks.
Zoning District or Sign Type | Front Setback (as measured from edge of pavement or edge of sidewalk as may be applicable) | Rear and Side Setback | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Commercial, Commercial II, General Industrial, Industrial Park, Historic Commercial, Special Use District | 10 feet | 10 feet | |
Commercial Tourist | 0 feet | Setback determined by specific site limitations. In no case shall proposed signs obstruct view at intersections, or project into right-of-way or sidewalk. | |
Real Estate Signs | 10 feet* | 10 feet | *Except Commercial Tourist District (see note above) |
Rural Residential and Suburban Residential | 25 feet | 15 feet |
D.
Construction and maintenance of signs.
(1)
Signs shall be constructed of durable and weatherproof material.
(2)
Signs shall be maintained in safe structural condition and good visual appearance at all times and no sign shall be left in a dangerous or defective state.
(3)
Every sign permitted by this bylaw shall be kept in good condition and repair. When any sign becomes insecure, in danger of falling or is otherwise deemed unsafe by the Building Inspector, or if any sign shall be unlawfully installed, erected or maintained in violation of any of the provisions of this bylaw, the owner thereof or the person or firm using same shall, upon written notice by the Building Inspector, forthwith in the case of immediate danger, and in any case within not more than 10 days, make such sign conform to the provisions of this bylaw or shall remove it. If within 10 days the order is not complied with, the Building Inspector may remove or cause such signs to be removed at the expense of the owner and/or the user of the sign. In the case of immediate danger to public safety, the Building Inspector shall have the authority to immediately remove or cause to be removed any sign, at the expense of the owner. Such removal shall occur only after the Building Inspector has contacted or attempted to contact the owner of the sign. The Building Inspector shall have sole and exclusive authority to determine that a sign poses a threat of immediate danger to public safety.
(4)
No sign shall be attached to a utility pole, street sign, fence, tree or light post.
(5)
Signs for defunct entities or for a business no longer operating at the location must be removed within 30 calendar days of the business closing.
(6)
A new permit shall be required if the original wording or color or design of a sign is modified. Repainting, replacement of the sign with the exact same sign design and color scheme shall not require approval of the Design Review Committee but shall require a permit from the Building Inspector.
E.
Special permits. In particular instances, and at the discretion of the Planning Board, acting as the special permit granting authority (SPGA), a special permit may be granted to erect and maintain more or larger signs than is provided for by this article, or for signs of types or for purposes not provided herein if it is determined that the proposed signage is consistent with the intent and purpose of this bylaw and that it meets the requirements of this section. A special permit is discretionary and is not the automatic right of any applicant. Special permit applications shall be filed concurrently with site plan approval applications for new projects, and in the case of proposed changes to signage existing at the time of adoption of this chapter, a separate special permit application shall be filed for consideration by the Planning Board. Special permits may only be granted if it is determined that the architecture of the building, the location of the building with reference to the street or the nature of the business establishment is such that the sign should be permitted in the public interest.
(1)
In granting a special permit under this section, the Planning Board shall make findings on which to base its determination with respect to the following:
(a)
The proposed sign shall not be detrimental to public safety and welfare in that it will not be a nuisance or hazard to vehicles and pedestrians and will help to improve safety, convenience and traffic flow;
(b)
The architecture of the building, the location of the building with reference to the street or the nature of the establishment is such that the sign should be permitted in the public interest;
(c)
The sign will not cause visual confusion, glare, offensive lighting in the neighborhood and surrounding properties;
(d)
The sign requested pursuant to the special permit application is necessary due to topography or site conditions unique to its proposed location;
(e)
A unique and particular type of use requires additional signage or a different character of signage in order to identify the premises adequately or to inform the public about specific events or activities;
(f)
The sign will not significantly alter the character of the zoning district or be a detriment to the surrounding area;
(g)
The sign scale is determined to be in reasonable relation to development scale, viewer distance and travel speed and sign sizes on nearby structures;
(h)
The sign design is in harmony with other signage on the same or adjacent structures and provides reasonable continuity in mounting location and height, proportions and materials;
(i)
The granting of the special permit does not derogate substantially from, and will be in harmony with, the intent and purposes of the bylaw.
(2)
In granting such permission, the SPGA shall specify the size and location of the sign or signs and impose such other terms and restrictions as it may be deemed to be in the public interest.
(3)
Any applicant under these provisions shall provide a site plan and specific information in the form of perspectives, renderings, including a scaled elevation plan showing the location and dimensions of the proposed sign, photographs or other representations sufficient to show the nature of the proposed sign, its effect on the immediate surroundings and the reasons the applicant believes the requested signage should be allowed in the public interest.
§ 300-17.6 Requirements applicable to residential districts.
A.
Type, number and size. Commercial signage in the Rural Residential and Suburban Residential Districts shall conform to the following standards:
(1)
No permitted commercial or industrial use within a residential district shall maintain more than four commercial signs serving such use within the limits of the Town of Sturbridge, of which no more than two signs may be located on the property itself. Only one of the two signs on the property may be freestanding. The above controls shall not apply to signs on the property which are less than five square feet in area and which are limited to designation of entrances, exits, parking areas and other similar directional purposes.
(2)
Freestanding signs shall not exceed the height of the principal building or 18 feet in height, whichever is less.
(3)
Hospitals, nursing homes, assisted-living facilities and other institutional uses allowed in a residential district, whether by right or by special permit, shall be allowed to have such signs as can be demonstrated as necessary to the safety and well-being of the community. These include internally illuminated signs indicating emergency room entrances, and such other similar signs as are necessary. In all other respects, they shall conform to the limitations and restrictions set forth in this article except as may be modified by the issuance of a special permit.
(4)
A business may have one flag not to exceed 12 square feet in area which incorporates a trademark, logotype or similar information (such as "Sale" or "Open") directly related to the business located on the lot. Business flags shall not overhang a public way or sidewalk at any time. Flags shall be removed or replaced if they become damaged.
B.
The following signs erected in the Rural Residential and Suburban Residential Zoning Districts shall meet the following requirements:
Type of Sign | Square Footage | Total Number | Freestanding | Wall or Projecting Sign | Changeable Copy Sign |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Professional name signs | 1.5 | 1 | Y | Y | N |
Identification signs for estates, schools, farms, etc. | 20.0 | 1 | Y | Y | N |
Other business uses as may be permitted | 30 | 2 | Y | Y | Y |
Multi-tenant sign for business use | 50 | 1 | Y | N | Y |
§ 300-17.7 Requirements applicable to Commercial, Special Use and Industrial Districts.
A.
Type, number and size. Signage in the Commercial, Commercial II, Commercial Tourist, Historic Commercial Districts, General Industrial, Industrial Park and Special Use Districts shall conform to the following standards:
(1)
Except as otherwise noted in this section, no commercial or industrial use within the districts set forth herein shall maintain more than four signs serving such use within the limits of the Town of Sturbridge, of which no more than two signs may be located on the property itself (with the exception of lawfully permitted sandwich board and temporary signs). Only one of the two signs on the property may be freestanding (with the exception of lawfully permitted sandwich board and temporary signs). The above controls shall not apply to signs on the property which are less than five square feet in area and which are limited to designation of entrances, exits, parking areas and other similar directional purposes.
(2)
Freestanding signs shall not exceed the height of the principal building or 18 feet in height, whichever is less.
(3)
A freestanding sign may have a portion of the sign area that is used for changeable copy messages; however, the name of the business and the street address shall be a permanent part of the sign.
(4)
For multiple-tenant properties, each tenant shall be entitled to only one business/advertising sign complying with all provisions of this bylaw and located immediately adjacent to the rented premises. In addition, one multiple listing sign may be erected and maintained on the property to identify said tenants. The total area allowed for such a sign, as described by the rectangle encompassing the framework and all individual listing signs, shall not exceed 50 square feet. Individual listing signs or encompassed individual listings shall be limited to one listing per tenant, and shall be used for the sole purpose of identification, and not for advertising. Such listings may include a designation of profession such as "Attorney," "Architect" to facilitate identification; if lighted, said lighting shall be from a constant, exterior source. Multiple listing signs shall be subject to all other provisions of the Zoning Bylaw.
(5)
A sandwich board sign may be used by each business. The sign shall not exceed 30 inches in width and 48 inches in height. The sign shall not be placed in a manner to block visibility at intersections nor shall it be allowed to project into the public way or sidewalk. The sign shall be brought in at the close of business each day. When a sandwich board sign is used on a regular basis it shall be considered a permanent sign and design review approval shall be required for the sign, which shall be of the same design and color scheme as the main permitted on-premises signage. All business owners are encouraged to develop a permanent sandwich board sign as soon after the adoption of this bylaw as practicable; however, existing signage may be used with appropriate permits until new signage is acquired. In no case may a sign of different design and color scheme be used after December 31, 2014 at which time only DRC-approved sandwich board signs may be used.
(6)
A permitted drive-thru food establishment or car wash may have one freestanding menu board sign for each drive-thru lane. The menu board may be a maximum of 40 square feet, and have a maximum vertical dimension of seven feet. No additional temporary or permanent signs, panels, flags, banners, etc. of any type may be attached to the menu board.
(7)
A business may have one flag not to exceed 12 square feet in area which incorporates a trademark, logotype or similar information (such as "Sale" or "Open") directly related to the business located on the lot. Business flags shall not overhang a public way or sidewalk at any time. Flags shall be removed or replaced if they become damaged.
B.
The following signs erected in the Commercial, Commercial II, Commercial Tourist, Historic Commercial Districts, General Industrial, Industrial Park and Special Use Zoning Districts shall meet the following requirements:
Type of Sign | Square Footage | Com-mercial | Com-mercial Tourist | Com-mercial II | General Industrial | Industrial Park | Historic Com-mercial | Special Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Professional name signs | 1.5 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Identification signs for estates, schools, farms, etc. | 20.0 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Business and advertising, building-mounted and/or free-standing | 30 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Multi-tenant sign for business use | 50 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Temporary real estate signs | 20 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Any other temporary signs | 12 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Sandwich board signs as defined in Subsection A(5) | 10 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Bed-and-breakfast signs | 12 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Changeable copy panel as part of a free-standing sign | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
§ 300-17.8 Temporary signs.
Unless otherwise specified herein, temporary signs may be displayed for a period of time not to exceed eight consecutive days, the first of which shall occur not more than seven days prior to the subject event, or such longer period of time as the Building Inspector may determine is reasonably necessary pursuant to issuance of a sign permit, provided that the Building Inspector may condition the location, construction and maintenance of such signs to protect public safety and may deny a permit for such sign where public safety cannot be reasonably guaranteed. All temporary signs shall be removed within 24 hours after the subject event unless the applicable permit states otherwise. Temporary wall signs or banners shall be flush against the building and not above the roof line of the building. A temporary sign shall be removed or replaced immediately if it becomes damaged in any way. A temporary wall sign or banner shall be removed or replaced immediately if it becomes damaged in any way. No more than one permit per month shall be granted.
A.
Sandwich board signs. Sandwich board signs of a temporary nature [not including signs authorized pursuant to the provisions of § 300-17.7A(5)] may be erected for any purpose. Businesses using a permanent sandwich board sign permitted under § 300-17.7A(5) are not permitted to use temporary sandwich board signs.
B.
Grand opening signs. Grand opening events may utilize temporary signage, flags and banners for a period not to exceed 30 days. Grand opening events are limited to the first 90 days after a certificate of occupancy has been issued. No searchlights or flashing type lights are allowed and are strictly prohibited during these events. When an existing business has substantially remodeled, as determined by the Building Inspector, the business will have the option of having a "Grand Re-Opening" sign. A permit is required from the Building Inspector.
C.
Street banners. Street banners may be displayed when approved pursuant to a temporary event permit issued by the Board of Selectmen or its designee specifying the location of such banner.
D.
Yard sale signs.
(1)
No more than three yard sale sign permits, valid for two days, shall be granted in a calendar year for the same lot.
(2)
An application must be filled out at the Building Inspector's/Enforcement Officer's or Town Clerk's office with a fee set by the Board of Selectmen.
(3)
No yard sale sign shall be located so as to cause visual confusion or interfere with traffic safety in the area.
(4)
No yard sale sign shall be bigger than 20 inches by 20 inches (400 square inches).
(5)
No more than four yard sale signs for the same event shall be located within the limits of the Town of Sturbridge.
(6)
If, in the Building Inspector's opinion, any yard sale sign(s) become(s) dangerous or unsafe in any manner whatsoever, the sign(s) shall be removed immediately.
(7)
No yard sale signs shall be located on telephone poles or trees that are on Town or state property or on property owned by the Town or state.
(8)
All yard sale signs shall be removed at the end of the permitted two-day period.
§ 300-17.9 Administration.
A.
Design review. All signs erected to serve commercial or industrial use shall require approval of the Design Review Committee (DRC). In reviewing applications the DRC shall insure that the:
(1)
Site selected is appropriate for the proposed design.
(2)
The proposed design is in keeping with the character of the Town in general, and with the specific neighborhood in particular.
(3)
The sign will be consistent with the architecture of the building on the lot upon which the sign is to be located and of the surrounding area.
(4)
The sign is consistent with the Design Review Committee Handbook and Design Guidelines, Town of Sturbridge Massachusetts adopted March 22, 2011, as may be amended from time to time.
B.
Inspections. Unless waived by the Building Inspector, all signs for which a permit is required shall be subject to a site inspection to ensure that the sign has been safely and firmly constructed and that it is in conformance with approvals granted.
C.
Fees. A schedule of fees for permits may be determined from time to time by the Board of Selectmen.
§ 300-17.10 Violations.
Violations of this article shall be subject to the provisions of § 300-18.1A, Enforcement.
§ 300-17.11 Appeals.
Any appeal hereunder to the Zoning Board of Appeals may be taken as set forth in § 300-18.2 of this bylaw.