West Reading City Zoning Code
PART 5
Signs
§ 455-188 Applicability.
The following regulations shall apply to all signs erected, altered, or maintained after the effective date of this article, and shall exclude governmental/regulatory signs.
§ 455-189 Legislative intent.
It is the intent of this article to regulate all signs within the West Reading Borough Downtown Overlay District to ensure that they are appropriate for their respective uses, in keeping with the appearance of the affected property and surrounding environment, and protective of the public health, safety, and general welfare. In addition, it is the intent of this article to:
A.
Encourage sign design that upholds the visual environment and aesthetic quality that the Borough seeks to promote and conforms to the architectural context of the surrounding buildings, thus preserving the right of citizens to enjoy the Borough's scenic features and viewsheds.
B.
Ensure that signs are adequate, but not excessive, for the intended purpose of identification or advertisement.
C.
Support and enhance the pedestrian environment.
D.
Prohibit the erection of signs in such numbers, sizes, designs, illumination, and locations as may create a hazard to pedestrians and motorists.
E.
Reasonably regulate the time, place and manner of sign regulations by placing reasonable limits on the size, total number, separation from other signs, height, safety, and other similar aspects of signs in order to minimize possible adverse impacts on nearby public and private property, including roadways.
§ 455-190 General regulations.
A.
Signs are regulated by district and according to Table 1, Permitted Sign Locations and Permit Types, and § 455-195.
B.
A permit is required for the erection, relocation, reconstruction, refacing or re-fabrication of all signs, except for those which are specifically exempted, provided that they are otherwise in compliance with this article.
C.
Illuminated signs are permitted in the Downtown Overlay District as long as they adhere to the following:
D.
Sign location.
(1)
No sign shall be placed in such a position as to endanger pedestrians, bicyclists, or traffic on a street by obscuring the view of or interfering with official street signs or signals by virtue of position or color.
(2)
No sign may occupy a vehicular sight triangle, as determined by the Borough Staff.
(3)
Signs and their supporting structures shall maintain clearance and noninterference with all surface and underground utility and communications lines and equipment.
(4)
No sign shall extend closer than one foot to the vertical edge of a building corner, or to the fascia, roof line or parapet.
(6)
Signs may not be located in or project into the public right-of-way unless permitted as described in this article.
F.
Allowable sign area.
(1)
The maximum cumulative sign area shall not exceed 1.5 square feet for every one linear foot of building frontage, per lot. 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.
(2)
The permitted maximum area for all signs is determined by the sign type as determined by § 455-196, Sign type standards.
(3)
Measurement of sign area shall be determined as follows:
(a)
The area of a sign shall mean the area of all lettering, wording, accompanying designs, logos, and symbols, together with the background on which they are displayed, whether open or enclosed. The area of a sign shall not include any supporting framework, bracing, or trim which is incidental to the display, provided that it does not contain any lettering, wording, or symbols.
(b)
Where the sign consists of individual letters, designs, or symbols attached to a building, awning/canopy, wall, window, or freestanding structure, the area shall be that of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters, designs, and symbols.
(c)
Signs may be double-sided.
[1]
On-premises sign. Only the larger of the two sign faces shall be used as the basis for calculating the sign area if the interior angle formed by the faces is less than or equal to 45° and the two faces are not more than 18 inches apart.
[2]
Off-premises sign. Both sides shall be calculated in the sign area.
(d)
If elements of a sign are movable or flexible, such as a flag or banner, the measurement of sign area is taken when the elements are fully extended.
G.
Fabrication techniques.
(1)
When located in an historic district or associated with an historic building, installation shall not damage or require removal of historic materials, and shall be done in a manner such that signs can be removed without harm to the masonry or architectural detailing.
(2)
All conduit, conductors, transformers, ballasts, and other equipment shall be concealed.
(3)
All attachment hardware shall be of corrosion-resistant material.
(4)
Signs shall be constructed only from wood, metal, stone or other similar composite material with painted, engraved or raised messages, with the exception of temporary signs, manual changeable copy signs, channel letters, and awnings and canopy signs.
(5)
Sign makers' logos, labels, or other identification is prohibited.
(6)
Vinyl applied copy is prohibited except for window signs and manual changeable copy signs where permitted in Table 1, Permitted Sign Locations and Permit Types.
(7)
Every sign shall be constructed of durable materials; shall be structurally safe and erected or installed in strict accordance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code; and shall be maintained in safe condition and good repair at all times so that all sign information is clearly legible.
§ 455-191 Sign regulations by type.
Signs types are regulated according to Table 1, Permitted Sign Locations and Permit Types, and § 455-196, Sign type standards.
§ 455-192 Permit exempt signs.
A.
The following signs shall be allowed without a sign permit and shall not be included in the determination of the type, number or area of permanent signs allowed on a property, provided that such signs comply with all applicable regulations in Article XXIX, Signs, § 455-190, General regulations. However, no exempt signs may project into the right-of-way of any public or private road, except for a governmental sign, and except for temporary signs authorized by § 455-196, Sign type standards.
B.
Signs shall follow the standards according to § 455-196, Sign type standards.
(1)
Official traffic signs.
(2)
Governmental/regulatory signs.
(3)
Public service signs which only advertise the public service provided on the property where the sign is located or are aids to safety or service.
(4)
"No trespassing" or similar on-premises signs, provided that no sign shall exceed one square foot in sign area. One sign is permitted per property boundary side, or in accordance with state law.
(5)
Temporary signs, except as noted in Table 1, Permitted Sign Locations and Permit Types.
(6)
Memorial signs.
(7)
Seasonal and holiday decorations.
(8)
Address or nameplate signs.
(9)
Signs which are permanent architectural features of a building or structure, such as cornerstones, existing as of the effective date of this article.
(10)
Flags of any governmental unit or branch or of any charitable or religious organization.
(11)
Art and exterior wall murals, provided that such signs do not contain any commercial messaging.
(12)
Interior signs not visible from a public right-of-way or adjoining property.
(13)
Real estate signs on the property for sale.
§ 455-193 Prohibited signs.
Except as may be expressly allowed or exempted elsewhere in this chapter, the following signs are prohibited:
A.
Abandoned signs or signs which are obsolete structures not meeting construction standards, out-of-date political signs, signs advertising defunct businesses and signs which have been erected without a building permit having been issued.
B.
Signs which are illegal under state law or regulation.
C.
Any sign which by color, shape or location imitates, resembles, interferes with, or obstructs official traffic lights, signs, or signals.
D.
Any off-premises sign, except as may be provided for within this article.
E.
Any portable sign, except A-frame sidewalk signs.
F.
Any sign erected without the permission of the property owner or authorized agent.
G.
Any sign that creates a clear and present danger to life, safety or welfare, as determined by the Zoning Officer or the Chief of Police.
H.
Any sign which obstructs free ingress to or egress from a required exit way.
I.
Any sign which uses an intermittent light or lights, including flashing lights, beacon lights, strobe lights, rotating beacons, chasing lights, or zip lights, including electronically controlled copy changes.
J.
Any illuminated tubing or strings of lights which outline roof lines, doors, windows, wall edges or rows of vehicles when used for advertising purposes, with the exception of temporary seasonal lights. Temporary lights shall cease to be operated within 60 days of installation.
K.
Any pennant strings, balloons or other inflatable objects, and streamers.
L.
Banners, spinners, flags, pennants, or any moving objects used for commercial advertising purposes, whether containing a message or not, except as specifically allowed in this section.
M.
Any snipe sign.
N.
Mechanical movement signs, including revolving signs.
O.
Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors.
P.
Inflatable signs or balloon signs, with the exception of balloons used in temporary, noncommercial situations.
Q.
Vehicular signs.
R.
Any sign which exhibits statements, words or pictures of obscene or pornographic subjects.
S.
Any sign inconsistent with the provisions of this article.
T.
Any sign that emits smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, sound, odor, or contains open flames.
U.
Electronic message/digital display signs.
V.
Projected image signs.
§ 455-194 Nonconforming signs; signs on nonconforming use premises.
A.
The total area of all signs relating to a single use existing at the effective date of this article or at the effective date of any amendment by which the sign shall be made nonconforming shall not be increased.
B.
Any sign in existence at the time this article becomes effective which is not in conformance with the provisions as set forth herein may be repainted or re-lettered. If a nonconforming sign is removed, replaced, resized, or if more than 25% of the sign frame or support structure is removed or replaced, it must be made to conform to the provisions of this article.
C.
Multi-tenant properties with total approved existing sign area that becomes nonconforming as a result of a decrease in the permissible sign area for each linear foot of building frontage may replace individual signs, provided that the area of the replacement sign is no larger than that permitted using the following calculations:
(1)
The existing building frontage and total approved existing sign area for the lot shall be calculated.
(2)
The percentage determined by dividing the currently permitted sign area by the total approved existing sign area shall be calculated.
(3)
The area of any subsequently erected replacement sign must not exceed the previously approved area of such sign.
§ 455-195 Definitions and word usage.
A hand-painted work of visual art that is either affixed to or painted on the exterior wall of a structure with the permission of the property owner. An original art display does not include: mechanically produced or computer-generated prints or images, including but not limited to digitally printed vinyl; electrical or mechanical components; or changing image art display. Wall murals are allowed on exterior wall and building faces that do not contain any commercial signage. A wall mural includes images or pictorial elements and does not include trademarks, logos, or text; has no commercial context; does not represent any product for sale and is consistent with community character. An exterior wall mural is not considered a sign.
Any object, device, display, or structure that is used to advertise, identify, display, direct, or attract attention, including structural elements, bases, sign faces, trim and borders.
That portion of a sign, including the display area, border and trim, but excluding the base, supports and other structural members, facing traffic moving in one direction.
A temporary, portable sign consisting of two faces connected and hinged at the top providing secondary signage for a business or tenant. It is pedestrian oriented and may be used to announce daily specials, sales, or direct pedestrians to shops located off the sidewalk. Also known as a sandwich board sign.
A sign which uses movement or change of lighting to depict action or to create a visual effect or scene.
A sign painted on, printed on, or applied to a nonstructural covering that projects from a wall for the purpose of shielding a doorway or window. An awning can be fixed in place or can be raised or retracted to a position against the building when not in use.
A structure with two parallel sign faces oriented in opposite directions, or two structures, each with one sign face and located not more than 10 feet from an obstruction preventing both structures from being seen at the same time from any point along the thoroughfare.
A sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is attached at one or more edges or corners to a pole or building. A banner which acts as a business identification, informational, or promotional sign is considered a temporary sign.
Many buildings such as museums have added outriggers on their facades to support fabric banners to announce new traveling shows and inform the public of special events.
Braille is a system of touch reading for people who are blind or vision-impaired. It employs raised dots, evenly arranged in rectangular letter cells. Braille signage is the primary source of self-sufficiency information for the vision-impaired and may be incorporated into general signage and way finding. The Americans with Disability Act[1] mandates braille signage for public buildings and spaces.
A sign directing attention to a business or profession conducted or to a commodity, service, or entertainment sold or offered on the premises on which such sign is located or to which it is affixed, but not including advertising devices or advertising displays.
A sign which is part of or is attached to a canopy, awning, or similar fabric, plastic, or structural cover over a door, entrance, window, or outside service area. A marquee is not a canopy.
A sign or portion thereof with characters or illustrations which can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or surface of the sign. A sign upon which the message changes more than eight times per day shall be considered an animated sign. A sign which shows the date, time, and/or temperature shall not be considered a changeable copy sign.
A double-faced sign located at the corner of two facades of a building.
A temporary sign identifying an architect, engineer, contractor, subcontractor, or material supplier who participates in construction on the property on which the sign is located.
An advertising sign or device intended to direct or point toward a place or object or that points out the way to a place or object that obviously could not be easily found without such a sign or device.
A sign capable of displaying text, graphics, symbols, or images that can be electronically or mechanically changed by remote or automatic means, and which directs attention to a business, activity, product, commodity, service, event, entertainment, or communication.
A facade or wall sign is a sign that is affixed parallel to a building facade. The sign may be made out of several materials such as wood, metal, or glass. The sign may have a minimal depth or may be constructed like a box not exceeding 12 inches from the face of the wall and may include lighting. The location of the board on a building is usually above the storefront, centered above the entry.
Signage on a flag advertising a business or use.
A sign, the illumination of which is not kept constant in intensity at all times when in use, and which exhibits sudden or marked change in lighting effects. Illuminated signs which indicate the date, time, and/or temperature, or other similar information, shall not be considered a flashing sign.
A permanent in-ground or surface-mounted sign which is constructed to be independent of all adjoining structures or which is supported or suspended from a freestanding column or other support located in or upon the ground surface.
A freestanding sign that is permanently supported by an internal structural framework or integrated into landscaping or other solid structural features.
A freestanding sign that is permanently supported in a fixed location by a structure of one or more poles, posts, uprights, or braces from the ground; and is not supported by a building or a base structure.
A sign which is lighted by or exposed to artificial lighting from a light source on or inside the sign or directed toward the sign.
Signs in the form of air inflated objects of various shapes that are made of flexible fabric and placed on the ground or a structure. By changing the rate of air being blown into the object, the objects can appear to be moving increasing the sign's likelihood of unreasonably distracting drivers or passersby.
Kiosks may be used for information and advertising. They may be located in the interior of a building or in the public realm.
A sign attached to a marquee structure. A marquee is a permanent structure that is attached to, supported by, and projecting from a building, usually for the purpose of providing protection from the elements.
Neon signs consist of narrow tubes shaped like words and images, which are lit internally by energized gas. Neon lighting is technologically similar to fluorescent but neon does not provide enough light energy for area illumination. However, neon has wonderful attributes of sharp, linear light and attractive vivid color and can be used creatively and artistically.
A sign that does not conform to the provisions of this chapter that regulate signs.
Any outdoor sign, display, figure, painting, drawing, message, billboard or any other thing which is designed, intended or used to advertise or inform, any part of which advertising or information content is visible from any place on the main traveled way of the interstate system or any thoroughfare in the Borough; but does not include on-premises signs advertising or identifying activities conducted on or products sold on the property upon which they are located.
A sign which directs attention to a person, business, profession, product, home occupation, or activity conducted on the same lot.
An on-premises sign that expresses an opinion, interest, position, or other noncommercial message.
A sign designed to be transported, including but not limited to signs transported by wheels, signs converted to A-frames, menu or sandwich board signs, balloons used as signs, and signs attached to or painted on vehicles that are parked and visible from the public right-of-way, unless said vehicle is used in the normal day-to-day operations of a business.
A sign which shines text, graphics, logos and photo-like images from a projector onto a surface.
A sign which is attached directly to a building wall and which extends at least 12 inches but no more than four feet from the face of such wall, but not canopy signs. Projecting signs are pedestrian-oriented, as they protrude perpendicularly from a building facade, directly facing pedestrians walking on the sidewalk. In pedestrian-oriented environments and on narrow thoroughfares, projecting signs announce addresses and retail businesses in a preeminent fashion as one is approaching.
A temporary sign which advertises or describes sales events, products or service promotions, or new products or service introductions related to the business being conducted on the premises.
A sign relating to the property on which it is located, offering such property for sale, lease, or rent, and includes open house signs.
A sign erected and constructed on the roof of the building on which it is located and extending vertically no higher than the highest point of the roof.
Signs that are tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued, or otherwise attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences, public benches, street lights, or other objects, or placed on any public property or in the public right-of-way.
A sign which is not permanently mounted or affixed to the ground, building, or display window and which is displayed for a specific period of time.
A structure or structures with two or three given sign faces, forming the shape of the letter "V" or a triangle when viewed from above, with an angle between any two faces of not more than 90°.
A landmark sign that is iconic in nature and culturally significant and was constructed between 25 and 50 years ago.
A wall-mounted directory sign is attached to the facade adjacent to the main entrance. It provides a listing of establishments within a building or series of buildings. The purpose of the directory should be for customer convenience, direction and safety.
A sign that is located on a low wall along the frontage line. The sign is either applied to the face of the wall or sits on top of the wall. It is more commonly used in transition or flex zones where there is a mixture of residential and retail.
A sign that is small, pedestrian-oriented, informative and may convey information such as hours of operation, or take the form of directories, menu cases, or convey historical building information.
A sign that is applied, painted, or affixed to a window, or placed inside a window, within three feet of the glass, facing the outside of the building, and easily seen from the outside are considered window signs as well. Customary displays of merchandise behind a store window are not considered window signs.
[1]
Editor's Note: See 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
§ 455-196 Sign type standards.
Table 1 Permitted Sign Locations and Permit Types | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Legend | Main Street Frontage Type | Main Street Transition Frontage Type | Commercial Frontage Type | Neighborhood/Professional Frontage Type | Eastern Redevelopment Frontage Type | Service Frontage Type | |
PR | Permit Required | ||||||
E | Exempt - No Permit Required | ||||||
NP | Not Permitted | ||||||
(T) | Temporary | ||||||
Sign Type | |||||||
A. A-Frame (T) | PR | PR | PR | NP | NP | NP | |
B. Awning | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | NP | |
C. Banner (T) | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
D. Canopy | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
E. Corner | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
F. Directional | E | E | E | E | E | E | |
G. Development/Construction (T) | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | NP | |
H. Facade/Wall | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | |
I. Flag | E | E | E | E | E | E | |
J. Freestanding Ground/Monument | NP | NP | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
K. Freestanding Pole/Pylon | NP | NP | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
L. Home Occupation | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | NP | |
M. Marquee | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
N. Personal Expression | E | E | E | E | E | E | |
O. Portable (T) | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
P. Projecting/Hanging/Blade | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | |
Q. Projected Image | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
R. Real Estate (T) | E | E | E | E | E | E | |
S. Roof | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
T. Temporary (T) | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | |
U. Vintage | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | |
V. Wall - Directory | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
W. Wall - Landscape | PR | PR | PR | NP | PR | NP | |
X. Wall Plaque | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | |
Y. Window | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | PR | |
A.
A-frame/sidewalk sign (temporary).
(1)
Description of A-frame/sidewalk sign: A temporary, portable sign consisting of two faces connected and hinged at the top providing secondary signage for a business or tenant. It is pedestrian-oriented and may be used to announce daily specials, sales, or to direct pedestrians to shops located off the sidewalk. Also known as a sandwich board sign.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | 1 per tenant frontage | |
Area | 6 sf max. per side; 12 sf max. total | Ⓐ |
Width | 30" max. | Ⓑ |
Height | 42" max. | Ⓒ |
Regulations | |
(1) | May be located in the public right-of-way and shall be no closer than 3 feet from the facade of the establishment and shall maintain a minimum clear pedestrian pathway of 4 feet. |
(2) | May only be displayed during business hours. |
(3) | Shall be weighted, temporarily secured, or placed so as to avoid being carried away by high winds. |
(4) | Shall be taken in when the business is closed. |
(5) | Shall be removed in inclement weather. |
(6) | Illumination of any A-Frame sign is prohibited. |
(7) | The tenant/business name shall be clearly visible. |
(8) | Must be on the same property. |
B.
Awning sign.
(1)
Description of awning sign: A sign painted on, printed on, or applied to a nonstructural covering that projects from a wall for the purpose of shielding a doorway or window. An awning can be fixed in place or can be raised or retracted to a position against the building when not in use. It consists of painted, screen printed or appliqued letters and graphics.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Height | 8 ft. min. clearance above sidewalk; 15 ft. max. | |
Width (max.) | 30 ft. horizontal | Ⓐ |
Sign area (max.) | 25% of the area of the sloped plane | Ⓑ |
Copy height (max.) | 12 in. for vertical plane | Ⓒ |
Regulations | |
(1) | An awning without lettering or other advertising shall not be regulated as a sign. |
(2) | An awning shall state only the name, address, or both, of the resident of the property. |
(3) | Logos of the resident business shall be permitted on the awning. |
(4) | Fixed or retractable awnings shall not project more than 4 feet into any street right-of-way. |
(5) | No portion of any awning structure, brace or pole shall interfere with the use of a public sidewalk. |
(6) | Awning signs mounted on a multi-tenant building shall be similar in terms of height and projection across all tenants in the building. |
C.
Banner sign (temporary).
(1)
Description of banner sign: A sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is attached at one or more edges or corners to a pole or building. A banner which acts as a business identification, informational, or promotional sign is considered a temporary sign. Banner signs do not include flag signs.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per parcel | |
Area | 25 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Banner Width | 30" max. | Ⓑ |
Height Above Ground Plane | 10' min. | Ⓒ |
Copy Height | 18" max. | |
Regulations | |
(1) | Banner signs shall be spaced a minimum of 20 feet from each other. |
(2) | May be erected for a period of time not to exceed 30 cumulative days in a calendar year. |
(3) | Limited to 2 permits per parcel per 12-month period. |
(4) | Shall be removed within 14 days of the end of occupancy, unless otherwise specified in this code. |
D.
Canopy sign.
(1)
Description of canopy sign: A sign which is part of or is attached to a canopy, awning, or similar fabric, plastic, or structural cover over a door, entrance, window, or outside service area. A marquee is not a canopy.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Height | 8 ft. min. clearance above sidewalk; 15 ft. max. | |
Number (max.) | 1 per entry | |
Sign area (max.) | 40 sf per sign | Ⓐ |
Copy height (max.) | 18 in. | Ⓑ |
Regulations | |
(1) | A canopy without lettering or other advertising shall not be regulated as a sign. |
(2) | A canopy shall state only the name, address, or both, of the resident of the property. |
(3) | Logos of the resident business shall be permitted on the canopy. |
(4) | Fixed or retractable canopies shall not project more than 4 feet into any street right-of-way. |
(5) | No portion of any canopy structure, brace or pole shall interfere with the use of a public sidewalk. |
(6) | Canopy signs mounted on a multi-tenant building shall be similar in terms of height and projection across all tenants in the building. |
E.
Corner sign.
(1)
Description of corner sign: A double-faced sign located at the corner of two facades of a building.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per building corner | |
Area | 20 sf max. per side | Ⓐ |
Height | N/A | |
Copy height (max.) | 18 in. | Ⓑ |
Regulations | |
(1) | Corner signs may not extend above the eaves or parapets. |
(2) | A maximum projection of no more than 2 feet is permitted. |
(3) | No portion of any corner sign structure shall interfere with the use of a public sidewalk. |
F.
Directional sign.
(1)
Description of directional sign: An advertising sign or device intended to direct or point toward a place or object or that points out the way to a place or object that obviously could not be easily found without such a sign or device.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per direction point per parcel | |
Area | 4 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Height | 5' max. | Ⓑ |
Copy height | N/A | |
Regulations |
G.
Development/construction sign (temporary).
(1)
Description of sign, development/construction: A temporary sign identifying an architect, engineer, contractor, subcontractor, or material supplier who participates in construction on the property on which the sign is located.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per frontage | |
Area | 10 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Height | 6' max. | Ⓑ |
Copy height | N/A | |
Regulations | |
(1) | May not be erected until final approval of the development by Borough Council and shall be removed on completion of active work. Active work shall be interpreted by the Zoning Officer. |
(2) | Shall be removed within 14 days of the end of occupancy, unless otherwise specified in this code. |
(3) | Shall not be located within a public right-of-way. |
H.
Facade/wall sign.
(1)
Description of facade/wall sign: A facade or wall sign is a sign that is affixed parallel to a building facade. The sign may be made out of several materials such as wood, metal, or glass. The sign may have a minimal depth not exceeding 12 inches from the face of the wall. The location of the board on a building is usually above the storefront, centered above the entry.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | 1 per tenant storefront frontage | |
Area | 40 sf max. per sign | Ⓐ |
Height | N/A | |
Copy height (max.) | 18 in. or 30 in. if over 40 ft. from ROW | Ⓑ |
Regulations | |
(1) | Shall not extend above a cornice, wall, parapet wall or building facade. |
(2) | May not obstruct windows or other building openings. |
(3) | The wall sign shall be located on a wall containing a primary public entrance. |
(4) | The wall sign shall fit in designated sign band areas on the building. |
(5) | When there is more than 1 public frontage, the allowable areas are calculated and applied to each frontage individually. |
I.
Flag sign.
(1)
Description of flag sign: Signage on a flag advertising a business or use.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 2 per frontage | |
Area | 15 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Height | N/A | |
Copy Height | N/A | |
Regulations | |
(1) | Feather/flutter signs are not permitted. |
(2) | No freestanding or ground-mounted installation of flag signs. |
J.
Freestanding ground/monument sign.
(1)
Description of freestanding ground/monument sign: A freestanding sign that is permanently supported by an internal structural framework or integrated into landscaping or other solid structural features.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per parcel | |
Area | 20 sf per side for 1 or 2 tenants and 40 sf for 3 or more tenants | Ⓐ |
Height | 4 ft. max. for 1 or 2 tenants or up to 8 ft. max. for 3 or more tenants | Ⓑ |
Copy height (max.) | 18 in. | Ⓒ |
Regulations | |
(1) | Maximum clearance to the bottom of the sign is 1 ft. |
(2) | Shall have a min. setback of 5 ft. from ROW. |
(3) | The width of the top of the sign structure may be no more than 120% of the width of the base. |
(4) | Manual changeable copy signs are permitted. |
K.
Freestanding pole/pylon sign.
(1)
Description of sign, freestanding pole/pylon: A freestanding sign that is permanently supported in a fixed location by a structure of one or more poles, posts, uprights, or braces from the ground; and is not supported by a building or a base structure.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per parcel | |
Area | 40 sf max per side. | Ⓐ |
Height | 15 ft. max. | Ⓑ |
Copy height (max.) | 18 in. | Ⓒ |
Regulations | |
(1) | Shall provide a minimum clearance of 10 ft. |
(2) | Shall have a minimum setback of 5 ft. from the ROW to the edge of the sign. |
(3) | Manual changeable copy signs are permitted. |
L.
(Reserved)
M.
Marquee sign.
(1)
Description of marquee sign: A sign attached to a marquee structure. A marquee is a permanent structure that is attached to, supported by, and projecting from a building, usually for the purpose of providing protection from the elements.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per frontage | |
Area | 75 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Height | N/A | |
Copy height (max.) | 24 in. | Ⓑ |
Regulations | |
(1) | May project into the public ROW; however, no closer than 6 ft. from the curb. |
(2) | Shall only be located above the principal entrance along a frontage. |
(3) | Manual changeable copy signs are permitted. |
N.
Personal expression sign.
(1)
Description of personal expression sign: An on-premises sign that expresses an opinion, interest, position, or other noncommercial message.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | N/A | |
Area | 6' sf per side max. | Ⓐ |
Height | 5' max. | |
Copy height | N/A | |
Regulations | |
(1) | Shall not be commercial in nature. |
(2) | Shall not be illuminated. |
O.
(Reserved)
P.
Projecting/hanging/blade sign.
(1)
Description of projecting/hanging/blade sign: A sign which is attached directly to a building wall and which extends at least 12 inches but no more than four feet from the face of such wall, but not canopy signs. Projecting signs are pedestrian-oriented, as they protrude perpendicularly to the building facade, directly facing pedestrians walking on the sidewalk. In pedestrian-oriented environments and on narrow thoroughfares, projecting signs announce addresses and retail businesses in a preeminent fashion as one is approaching.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | 1 per tenant frontage | |
Area | 6 sf max. per side; 12 sf max. total | |
Width | 3' max. | Ⓐ |
Height | 3' max. | Ⓑ |
Thickness | 4' max. | |
Clear height | 8' min. | Ⓒ |
Projection, if attached to facade | 4' max. | Ⓓ |
Regulations | |
(1) | Projecting signs should be located adjacent to the main entry. |
(2) | Signage should contain the name of the business and may include business logo and/or text or graphics related to primary products or services. |
(3) | Text should be limited to the tenant/business name and their primary products. |
(4) | Supports shall be affixed to a building facade and shall not obstruct upper-story windows or openings. |
(5) | May project into the public right-of-way; however, no closer than 6 feet from the curb. |
Q.
Projected image sign.
(1)
Description of projected image sign: A sign which shines text, graphics, logos and photo-like images from a projector onto a surface.
Placement & Dimensions | |
Number of signs | 1 per side of building, up to 2 |
Area | No greater than 5% of the building face |
Height above ground plane | 8' min. |
Regulations | |
(1) | The projected image of a projected image sign is limited to nonresidential and mixed-use properties. |
(2) | The projected image shall not fall onto a surface with a high degree of specular reflectivity, such as polished metal or glass. The image shall be positioned to harmonize with the architectural character of the building to which it is projected, and shall avoid any projection, relief, cornice, column, window, or door opening. |
(3) | A maximum of 1 image per side may occupy the side wall area of the building. The projected image shall be in addition to the allowable permanent signage. |
(4) | The path of the projection shall not shine down or cross public rights-of-way or pedestrian pathways at a height of less than 8 feet. |
(5) | Projected image signs are subject to the UDC illumination standards unless the Borough determines that additional illumination shall be permitted because it will pose no material detrimental effects or shine down on neighboring properties or public rights-of-ways due to the location and the timing of the display. |
(6) | Projected images shall contain static messages only, and animated, dissolve, or fade transitions are not allowed. |
(7) | The source of the projection shall not project any sounds or music. |
(8) | Projected image signs shall contain on-premises messages only. |
R.
Real estate sign (temporary).
(1)
Description of real estate sign: A sign relating to the property on which it is located, offering such property for sale, lease, or rent, and includes open house signs.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | 1 per frontage | |
Area | 6 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Height | 5' max. | Ⓑ |
Copy height | 12" max. | |
Regulations | |
(1) | Shall be removed upon transfer of property. |
(2) | Shall not be located within the public right-of-way. |
S.
Roof sign.
(1)
Description of roof sign: A sign erected and constructed on the roof of the building on which it is located and extending vertically no higher than the highest point of the roof.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | 1 | |
Area | 40 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Height | N/A | |
Copy height | 18" max. or 30" if over 40' from ROW. | Ⓑ |
Regulations | |
(1) | Only 1 Roof Sign shall be located on the roof of any building or structure. |
(2) | The height of a Roof Sign shall not exceed the highest point of the roof. |
(3) | In the event the property already contains a freestanding sign, it shall not also have a Roof Sign. |
(4) | All Roof Signs shall be set back a minimum of 3 feet from the edge of the roof on which it is located. |
(5) | All Roof Signs placed upon a building or buildings on 1 lot shall be similar in size, shape, area and design. |
(6) | Roof Signs shall not be permitted on flat roofs. |
T.
(Reserved)
U.
(Reserved)
V.
Wall directory sign.
(1)
Description of wall directory sign: A wall mounted directory sign is attached to the facade adjacent to the main entrance. It provides a listing of establishments within a building or series of buildings. The purpose of the directory should be for customer convenience, direction and safety.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | 1 per public entrance | |
Area | 12.5 sf max. | |
Mounting height | 8' max. to top; 3' min. to bottom | Ⓐ |
Width | 36" max. | Ⓑ |
Height | 5' max. | Ⓒ |
Thickness | 2" max. | |
Building identification lettering | 3" max. | |
Tenant name lettering | 2.5" max. | |
Regulations | |
(1) | Signage should contain the names of the tenants/businesses and may include primary products and services. |
W.
Wall landscape sign.
(1)
Description of wall landscape sign: A sign that is located on a low wall along the frontage line. The sign is either applied to the face of the wall or sits on top of the wall. It is more commonly used in transition or flex zones where there is a mixture of residential and retail.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of signs | 1 per tenant frontage | |
Area | 24 sf max. | Ⓐ |
Width | 12' max. | Ⓑ |
Height | 3' max. | Ⓒ |
Thickness | 8" max. | |
Mounting height (for signs applied to face of wall) | Below top of wall 6" max. Above grade 12" max. | |
Regulations | |
(1) | The tenant/business name shall be clearly visible. |
(2) | May include the name of the business/tenant, business address, and their primary products. |
X.
Wall plaque sign.
(1)
Description of wall plaque sign: A sign that is small, pedestrian-oriented, informative and may convey information such as hours of operation, or take the form of directories, menu cases, or convey historical building information.
 |
Placement & Dimensions | |
Number of signs | 2 per usable entry |
Area | 6 sf max., not projecting more thank 3" from a building wall |
Height | 5' on center above grade or sidewalk |
Regulations | |
(1) | Natural lighting only is permitted, except for menu cases, which may be internally lit. |
Y.
Window sign.
(1)
Description of window sign: A sign that is applied, painted, or affixed to a window, or placed inside a window, within three feet of the glass, facing the outside of the building, and easily seen from the ROW. Customary displays of merchandise behind a store window are not considered window signs.
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Placement & Dimensions | ||
Number of Signs | 1 per window bay max. | |
Area | 25% of window bay max. 15% of glass area of tenant max. | Ⓐ |
Width | 5' max. | Ⓑ |
Height | 36" max. | Ⓒ |
Height above grade | 4' min. | |
Regulations | |
(1) | Signage should contain the name of the business and may include business logo and/or text or graphics related to primary products and services. |
(2) | The following window signs are permitted: |
(a) | Letters painted directly on the window. |
(b) | Non-illuminated hanging signs hung behind the glass. |
(c) | Vinyl applique letters applied to the window. Appliques shall consist of individual letters or graphics with no visible background. |
(3) | Window signs shall not obscure the interior view. |
(4) | Window signs shall not be illuminated except as below. |
(a) | Neon signs within window displays shall be limited to one per window opening, max. coverage of 10% of the window size, and no flashing shall be allowed. |
§ 455-198 Location of off-premises signs.
Off-premises signs which conform with the provisions of this article shall be permitted only in the General Business Zoning District and the Light Industrial Zoning District. In no event shall any portion of any sign be erected within 100 feet of any residentially zoned property.
§ 455-199 Size of off-premises signs.
The maximum area of an off-premises sign face shall be 300 square feet with maximum length of 25 feet, plus temporary embellishments not exceeding 20% of the permanent sign area, but not to exceed one display panel on the same face.
§ 455-200 Spacing of off-premises signs.
Property facing thoroughfares and all other property which is zoned so as to permit the construction and maintenance of off-premises signs shall be subject to the following:
A.
Each side of a thoroughfare shall be considered separately.
B.
V-type or back-to-back off-premises signs shall be considered one sign.
C.
No two off-premises signs shall be spaced less than 1,500 feet apart on any thoroughfare.
D.
No off-premises sign shall be located in such a manner as to obscure, or otherwise physically interfere with the effectiveness of, an official traffic sign, signal or device, or obstruct or physically interfere with a driver's view of approaching or intersecting traffic.
§ 455-201 Height of off-premises signs.
Off-premises signs shall not exceed an overall height of 25 feet above the adjacent ground elevation or 40 feet above the surface of the road, whichever is lesser in height. Off-premises signs shall not be closer than 10 feet to the nearest right-of-way/property line.
§ 455-202 Lighting of off-premises signs.
Off-premises signs may be illuminated, subject to the following restrictions:
A.
No revolving or rotating beam or beacon of light that simulates any emergency light device shall be permitted as part of any sign. Flashing devices shall not be permitted upon a sign; however, illuminated signs which indicate customary public information, such as time, date, temperature or other similar information, shall be permitted.
B.
External lighting, such as floodlights, thin line and goose-neck reflectors, are permitted, provided the light source is directed on the face of the sign.
C.
The illumination of any sign within 200 feet of a residential zone lot line shall be diffused or indirect in design to prevent direct rays of light from shining into adjoining residential districts.
§ 455-203 Construction standards.
All off-premises signs shall be constructed in accordance with the Building Code for the Borough. The structural elements of all off-premises signs shall be of metal construction.
§ 455-204 Maintenance or replacement of existing off-premises signs.
§ 455-205 Removals.
Abandoned off-premises signs shall be promptly removed. All off-premises signs removed for the purpose of abandonment cannot be replaced unless they are conforming to this article.
§ 455-207 Signs permitted in Non-Residential Districts.
(Reserved)
§ 455-208 Signs permitted in Residential and Conservation Districts.
Signs permitted in Residential and Conservation Districts are as follows:
A.
Signs displaying only the name and address of the occupant of the premises, provided that the area of any such sign shall not exceed one square foot. Not more than one such sign shall be erected on each premises.
B.
Signs identifying permitted nonresidential buildings, provided that the area of any such sign shall not exceed eight square feet. A maximum of two such signs shall be placed on a corner property on which such buildings are located.
§ 455-209 Signs permitted in Institutional District.
Signs identifying permitted nonresidential buildings, provided that the area of any such sign shall not exceed 32 square feet. A maximum of two such signs shall be placed on a corner property on which such buildings are located. Consideration for a sign size larger than the specified allowance may be allowed by conditional use at the discretion of Borough Council. In addition to the conditional use procedures set forth in § 455-29 of the Borough of West Reading Zoning Ordinance, Borough Council shall consider granting conditional use for a sign size larger than the specified allowance by considering comments from the Planning Commission, Zoning Officer and items including but not limited to:
A.
Building size.
B.
Facade size.
C.
Existing signage associated with the building and neighborhood.
D.
Building and neighborhood characteristics.
E.
Signage type and characteristics.
F.
Physical and visual impact including lighting.
G.
Sign layout and construction materials.
H.
Architectural characteristics and features.