[Added 9-14-1970 by Ord. No. 1970-15; amended 6-18-1979 by Ord. No. 1979-13; 11-1-1982 by Ord. No. 1982-34; 8-15-1983 by Ord. No. 1983-22; 4-18-1988 by Ord. No. 1988-7; 11-17-1997 by Ord. No.
1997-28; 8-4-2003 by Ord. No. 2003-19; 2-1-2003 by Ord. No.
2003-30; 5-5-2008 by Ord. No. 2008-12]
This article shall be known as the "Sign Regulations
of the Township of Mount Laurel. Burlington County, New Jersey."
It is the purpose of this article to promote
the public health, safety and general welfare through reasonable,
consistent and nondiscriminatory sign standards. The sign regulations
in this article are not intended to censor speech or to regulate viewpoints,
but instead are intended to regulate the secondary effects of speech
and especially insofar as those secondary effects may adversely affect
aesthetics, traffic and pedestrian safety. In order to preserve and
enhance the Township as a desirable community in which to live and
do business, a pleasing, visually attractive environment is of foremost
importance. The regulation of signs within the Township is a highly
contributive means by which to achieve this desired end. These sign
regulations have been prepared with the intent of enhancing the visual
environment of the Township and promoting its continued well-being
and are intended to:
A.
Satisfy the intent and purpose of the Municipal Land
Use Law, including N.J.S.A. 40:55D-2c, to provide adequate light,
air and open space; N.J.S.A. 40:55D-2i, to promote a desirable visual
environment through creative development techniques and good civic
design and arrangements; and N.J.S.A. 40:55D-2j, to prevent degradation
of the environment through the improper use of land.
B.
Encourage the effective use of signs as a means of
communication in the Township;
C.
Maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment and
the Township's ability to attract sources of economic development
and growth;
D.
Improve pedestrian and traffic safety;
E.
Minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on nearby
public and private property;
F.
Foster the integration of signage with architectural
and landscape designs in such a manner that overall appearance is
harmonious in color, form and proportion;
G.
Lessen the visual clutter that may otherwise be caused
by the proliferation, improper placement, illumination, animation,
excessive height and excessive size (area) of signs which compete
for the attention of pedestrian and vehicular traffic;
H.
Allow signs that are compatible with their surroundings
and aid orientation while precluding the placement of signs that contribute
to sign clutter and that conceal or obstruct adjacent land uses or
signs;
I.
Encourage and allow signs that are appropriate to
the zoning district in which they are located and consistent with
the category of use and function to which they pertain;
J.
Curtail the size and number of signs and sign messages
to the minimum reasonably necessary to identify a residential or business
location and the nature of any such business;
K.
Establish sign size in relationship to the scale of
the lot and building on which the sign is to be placed or to which
it pertains;
L.
Categorize signs based upon the function that they
serve and tailor the regulation of signs based upon their function;
M.
Preclude signs from conflicting with the principal
permitted use of the site and adjoining sites;
N.
Regulate signs in a manner so as not to interfere
with, obstruct the vision of or distract motorists, bicyclists or
pedestrians;
O.
Except to the extent expressly preempted by state
or federal law, ensure that signs are constructed, installed and maintained
in a safe and satisfactory manner and protect the public from unsafe
signs;
P.
Preserve, conserve, protect and enhance the aesthetic
quality and scenic beauty of all districts of the Township;
Q.
Allow for traffic control devices consistent with
national standards and whose purpose is to promote highway safety
and efficiency by providing for the orderly movement of road users
on streets and highways, and that notify road users of regulations
and provide warning and guidance needed for the safe, uniform and
efficient operation of all elements of the traffic stream;
R.
Protect property values by precluding, to the maximum
extent possible, sign-types that create a nuisance to the occupancy
or use of other properties as a result of their size, height, illumination,
brightness or movement;
S.
Protect property values by ensuring that sign-types,
as well as the number of signs, are in harmony with buildings, neighborhoods
and conforming signs in the area;
T.
Regulate the appearance and design of signs in a manner
that promotes and enhances the beautification of the Township; and
U.
Enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these
sign regulations.
All words used in this article shall carry their
customary dictionary meanings, except that the following words, terms
and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed
to them in this article, except where the context clearly indicates
a different meaning:
The American Association of State Highway and Transportation
Officials.
A sign or sign structure is considered abandoned or discontinued
when its owners fails to operate or maintain a sign for a period of
six months or longer. The following conditions shall be considered
a failure to operate or maintain a sign:
Sign copy intended to aid, directly or indirectly, in the
sale, use or promotion of a product, commodity, service, activity,
entertainment or real or personal property.
A sign for a permitted agricultural use whose function is
exclusively for advertising for the normal, incidental and customary
sale of products, produce or livestock raised on the premises.
A sign that includes action, motion or color changes, or
the optical illusion of action, motion or color changes, including
signs set in motion by movement of the atmosphere or made up of a
series of sections that turn.
Wood or materials that are not more combustible than wood
and approved combustible plastics.
Only those plastics which, when tested in accordance with
American Society for Testing and Materials standard method for test
for flammability of plastics over 0.050 inch in thickness (C635-44),
burn no faster than 2.5 inches per minute in sheets of 0.060 inch
thickness.
A one- or two-dimensional representation of a creative idea
that is expressed in a form and manner as to provide aesthetic enjoyment
for the viewer rather than to specifically convey the name of the
business or a commercial message about the products or services offered
on the property upon which the artwork is displayed.
A wall sign or a marquee sign but not a canopy sign.
See "snipe sign."
Any sign or string of one or more signs, usually made of
cloth or other lightweight material, which is used to attract attention,
whether or not imprinted with words or characters, including, but
not limited to, balloons and other inflatables and pennants. Flags
shall not be considered banners.
A stationary or revolving light that flashes or projects
illumination, single colored or multicolored, in any manner that has
the effect of attracting or diverting attention, except, however,
this term does not include any kind of lighting device that is required
or necessary under the safety regulations of the Federal Aviation
Administration or other similar agency. This definition does apply
to any similar type of lighting device contained entirely within a
structure and that does not project light to the exterior of the structure.
A sign structure and/or sign utilized for: Advertising an
establishment, an activity, a product or service or entertainment
that is sold, produced manufactured, available or furnished; or promoting
any activity, including noncommercial activity and solicitation, such
as but not limited to charitable solicitation and noncommercial speech,
at a place other than on the property on which said sign structure
and/or sign is located.
The length of the single face of a building or that portion
of a building occupied by a single office, business or enterprise,
commonly referred to as "storefront," which is abutting a street,
parking area or other means of customer access such as in an arcade,
a mall or a walkway.
Any sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy
or other fabric, plastic or structural protective cover over a door,
entrance, window or outdoor service area. A marquee is not a canopy.
Any sign wording, logo or other representation or image that
directly or indirectly names, advertises or calls attention to a product,
service, sale or sales event or other commercial activity.
A temporary on-premises sign identifying the ongoing construction
activity during the time a building permit is active and prior to
completion of the work for which the permit was issued, containing
sign copy limited to the ongoing construction activity and identifying
the contractor and/or any subcontractor engaged to perform construction
activity on the site and the building architect.
The linguistic or graphic content of a sign.
A single sign with items of information on both sides of
the sign and mounted as a single structure.
A temporary sign erected or displayed for the purpose of
expressing support for or opposition to a candidate or stating a position
regarding an issue upon which the voters of the Township shall vote.
To construct, build, raise, assemble, place, affix, attach,
create, paint, draw or in any other way bring into being or establish
but it does not include any of the foregoing activities when performed
as an incident to the change of advertising message or customary maintenance
or repair of a sign.
The side of a building, and a building facade may be less
than the entire side of a building if limited to the occupancy of
a portion of a building.
Temporary advertising signs made of lightweight cloth that
are supported by a lightweight freestanding pole or frame.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
Any fabric or bunting containing distinct colors, patterns
or symbols used as an ornamental flag or as a symbol of government,
political subdivision, corporation or business or other entity (see
also "ornamental flag").
A pole on which to raise a flag.
A sign which permits light to be turned on or off intermittently
more frequently than once per minute or any illuminated sign on which
such illumination is not kept stationary or constant in intensity
and color at all times when such sign is in use, including an LED
(light emitting diode) or digital sign, and changes more frequently
than once per minute.
A sign, not in excess of four square feet in size (area)
per side and the top of the sign is not more than six feet off the
ground, communicating information or views on matters of public policy
concern or containing any other noncommercial message that is otherwise
lawful.
A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed
on or anchored in the ground or at ground level and which are independent
of any building or other structure, including, but not limited to,
pole or pylon signs or monument signs.
A freestanding sign whose ratio of width of sign to width
of support is equal to or greater than three to one.
The length of the property line of a parcel of land that
runs parallel with and along a road right-of-way or street, exclusive
of alleyways.
A sign that functions to advertise the future or proposed
development of the premises upon which the sign is erected, the building
owner and/or the projected opening date.
Any on-site, temporary sign pertaining to the sale of personal
property in, at or upon any residentially zoned property located in
the Township. Garage or yard sales shall include, but not be limited
to, all such sales and shall include the advertising of the holding
of any such sale or the offering to make any sale whether made under
any name, such as garage sale, lawn sale, yard sale, front yard sale,
backyard sale, home sale, attic sale, rummage sale, patio sale, flea
market sale or any similar designation.
The finished grade of a parcel of land exclusive of any filling,
berming or mounding.
Vertical distance measured from ground level nearest the
base of the sign to the highest point on the sign.
Decorations that pertain to legal or other recognized holidays
or to a season of the year.
Any sign that has been determined to be in violation of any
provision of this article.
Any sign or portion thereof that is illuminated by artificial
light, either from an interior or exterior source, including outline,
reflective or phosphorescent light, whether or not the source of light
is directly affixed as part of the sign.
A sign intended for informational purposes as opposed to
commercial or advertising purposes. Typically smaller in size, examples
of incidental signs include parking signs, restroom signs and entrance
and exit signs.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
A nonprofit, religious or public use, such as a religious
building, library, public or private school, hospital, or government-owned
or operated building, structure or land used for public purposes.
Community centers operated by a homeowners' association within a PARC
Zone and used for administrative, social, cultural and/or recreational
uses shall be considered institutional uses.
[Amended 10-28-2013 by Ord. No. 2013-10]
A sign which permits light to be turned on or off intermittently
more frequently than once every 12 hours or that is operated in a
way whereby light is turned on or off intermittently more frequently
that once every 12 hours, including any illuminated sign on which
such illumination is not kept stationary or constant in intensity
and color at all times when such sign is in use, including an LED
(light emitting diode) or digital sign, and that varies in intensity
or color more frequently than once every 12 hours.
Any digital, illuminated sign with changeable message and
changeable copy which shall not scroll. These signs shall comply with
all other requirements and permits and shall not have any scrolling,
flashing or animated message, but shall allow for digital, changeable
copy.
[Added 9-25-2017 by Ord.
No. 2017-18]
Signage that conveys life-saving information such as important
fire, security and evacuation information. The specific types of life
safety signage required are determined by local, state and federal
regulations.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
Land that has been or which is proposed to be used, developed
or built upon as a unit under single ownership.
The replacing, repairing or repainting of a portion of sign
structure or periodically changing changeable copy or renewing copy
which has been made unusable by ordinary wear.
Any permanent, roof-like structure projecting beyond a building
or extending along and projecting beyond the wall of the building,
generally designed and constructed to provide protection from the
weather.
Any sign attached to a marquee.
A changeable point-of-purchase sign that provides a list
of products and prices, as commonly seen in food shops and other fast
service restaurants where it is used to display the menu.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14[1]]
An art installation on a wall surface, visible to the public
right-of-way, consisting of paint, mirrors, tiles, printed graphics,
and other similar materials, and adhered directly to the wall of a
public building or structure and such depictions shall not contain
words, logos, emblems, trademarks or other similar devices which identify
or advertise any product, service or business.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
A sign indicating the name and/or profession or address of
a person or persons residing on the premises or legally occupying
the premises.
Any message that is not a commercial message.
An on-site sign providing direction or information to pedestrian
or vehicular traffic that is related or reasonably necessary to the
movement of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on the premises and not
displaying a commercial message, e.g., "Entrance," "Exit," "Caution,"
"No Parking," "One Way Only," "No Trespassing," and the like.
A sign that does not conform to the regulations provided
in this article.
Any sign relating in its subject matter to commodities, accommodations,
services or activities on a premises other than the premises on which
the sign is located.
Any sign relating in its subject matter to the commodities,
accommodations, services or activities on the premises on which it
is located.
Any fabric or similar material containing patterns, drawings
or symbols used for decorative purposes and designed to be flown as
a flag.
A false front or wall extension above the roofline of a building.
An area of land formally described and recorded with individual
block and lot numbers.
Any series of small flag-like or streamer-like piece of cloth,
plastic, paper or similar material attached in a row to any staff,
cord, building or at only one or two edges, the remainder handing
loosely.
Any sign which, when installed, is intended for permanent
use. For the purposes of this article, any sign with an intended use
in excess of 12 months from the date of installation shall be deemed
a permanent sign.
Any sign, banner or poster that is not permanently attached
to the ground or structure. For purposes of this article, a cold,
air-inflatable sign shall be considered to be a portable sign.
Any property owned, leased or controlled by the person actively
engaged in business at that location.
The use that constitutes the primary activity, function or
purpose to which a parcel of land or a building is put.
Any sign affixed perpendicularly to a building or wall in
such a manner that its leading edge extends more than 10 inches beyond
the surface of such building or wall.
A sign advertising the sale, rental or lease of the premises
or part of the premises on which the sign is displayed temporarily.
Any sign that revolves or rotates.
The highest, continuous, horizontal line of a roof. On a
sloping roof, the roofline is the principal ridgeline or the highest
line common to one or more principal slopes of roof. On a flat roof
the roofline is the highest, continuous line of a roof.
Any sign erected and constructed wholly on or over the roof
of a building, which is supported by the roof structure, or any sign
that extends in whole or in part above the roofline of a building.
See "warning sign."
A temporary, portable, double-faced, freestanding sign.
A triangular-shaped portion of land established at street
intersections or street and driveway intersections in which nothing
is erected or allowed to grow in such a manner as to limit or obstruct
the sight distance of motorists entering or leaving the intersection.
Locations and dimensions of required sight distance triangles shall
be as defined in current AASHTO standards.
Any device, fixture, placard or structure that uses color,
form, graphics, illumination, architectural style or design with text
or writing to advertise, attract attention, announce the purpose of
or identify the purpose of any person or entity or to communicate
information of any kind to the public. The term "sign" includes sign
structure. The following shall not be considered signs subject to
the regulations of this article: artwork, holiday or seasonal decorations,
cemetery markers, machinery or equipment signs or memorial signs or
tablets.
The total square-foot area of sign surface, including all
parts thereof devoted to the background, computed by bounding the
exterior of the sign structure or surface with a series of straight
lines. The area of a sign painted directly on a wall or awning and
signs with letters attached directly to walls or awnings shall be
calculated by constructing an imaginary series of straight lines around
the outside of all elements of the sign.
Also called "height above grade," the measured distance between
the lowest portion of a sign and the highest point of the grade underneath.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
The part of the sign that is or can be used to identify,
display, advertise or communicate information or, for the visual representation,
which attracts or intends to attract the attention of the public for
any purpose.
Any structure which is designed specifically for the purpose
of supporting a sign, which has supports or which is capable of supporting
a sign. The definition shall include any decorative covers, braces,
wires, supports or other components attached to or placed around the
sign structure.
Any sign tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued or otherwise
attached to trees, rocks or other natural features, or poles, stakes
or fences, with the message appearing thereon not applicable to the
present use of the premises upon which the sign is located.
A content-neutral sign providing notice of or direction to
an event, gathering, assembly or meeting that is open to the public
at large.
A sign required by any statute or regulation of the State
of New Jersey or the United States.
Any sign denoting the street address of the premises on which
it is attached or located.
As it pertains to a nonconforming sign, means that:
Fifty percent or more of the upright supports
of a sign structure are physically damaged such that normal repair
practices of the sign industry would call for, in the case of wooden
structures, replacement of the broken supports and, in the case of
a metal sign structure, replacement of at least 25% of the length
above ground of each broken, bent or twisted support; or
That more than 50% of a wall or attached sign
is physically damaged such that normal repair practices of the sign
industry would call for the same to be replaced or repaired.
A monument sign that contains only the name of a platted
subdivision or other residential development. A subdivision monument
identification sign at a platted subdivision or neighborhood entrance
shall not be considered a billboard.
A sign intended for a use not permanent in nature. For the
purposes of this article, a sign with an intended use of one year
or less shall be deemed a temporary sign.
The Township Council of the Township of Mount Laurel, Burlington
County, New Jersey.
Any sign located within the right-of-way that functions as
a traffic control device and is described and identified in the Manual
on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and approved by the Federal
Highway Administrator as the national standard. A traffic control
device sign includes those signs that are classified and defined by
their function as regulatory signs (that give notice of traffic laws
or regulations), warning signs (that give notice of a situation that
might not be readily apparent) and guide signs (that show route designations,
directions, distances, services, points of interest and other geographical,
recreational or cultural information).
A sign designed to be mounted underneath a canopy.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
Any sign or signs where the total sign area covers more than
10 square feet of the vehicle.
See "sight visibility triangle."
A sign that is painted on, fastened to or erected against
the wall of a building, with its face in a parallel plane with the
plane of the building facade or wall, which is used for advertising.
A sign that functions to provide a warning of a dangerous
condition or situation that might not be readily apparent or that
poses a threat of serious injury (e.g., gas line, high voltage, condemned
building, etc.) or that functions to provide a warning of a violation
of law (e.g., no trespassing, no hunting allowed, etc.).
Any sign mounted in any fashion on the interior or exterior
of the surface of a window.
A sign that uses objects or material fastened in such a manner
as to move upon being subjected to pressure by wind and shall include
banners, pennants, ribbons, spinners, streamers or captive balloons;
however, the term "wind sign" shall not include flags.
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed the former definition
of "menu display sign," which immediately followed.
The following signs and sign-types are prohibited within the Township and shall not be erected. Any lawfully existing permanent sign or sign-type that is among the prohibited signs and sign-types listed below shall be deemed a nonconforming sign subject to the provisions of § 154-85:
A.
Billboards.
B.
Revolving signs.
C.
Flashing signs.
D.
Animated signs.
E.
Wind signs.
F.
Portable signs.
G.
Roof signs.
H.
Abandoned and discontinued signs.
I.
Snipe signs; bandit signs.
J.
Projecting signs, except as expressly allowed.
K.
Signs that emit smoke, visible vapor or smoke, sound,
odor or visible particles or gaseous matter.
L.
Signs that have unshielded illuminating devices.
M.
Signs that obstruct, conceal, hide or otherwise obscure
from view any official traffic or governmental sign, signal or device.
N.
Any sign within a sight visibility triangle that obstructs
a clear view of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
O.
Any sign in the public right-of-way other than traffic
control device signs, warning signs or safety signs.
P.
Any sign other than a traffic control device sign
that uses the word "Stop" or "Danger" or presents or implies the need
or requirement of stopping or the existence of danger or which is
a copy or imitation of official traffic control device signs and which
is adjacent to the right-of-way of any road, street or highway.
Q.
Any sign nailed, fastened or affixed to any tree.
R.
Any sign prohibited by state or federal law.
S.
Vehicle sign or signs that have a total sign area
on any vehicle in excess of 10 square feet, when the vehicle is not
regularly used in the conduct of the business or activity, advertised
on the vehicle and is visible from a street right-of-way within 100
feet of the vehicle and is parked for more than two consecutive hours
within 100 feet of any street right-of-way. A vehicle shall not be
considered "regularly used in the conduct of the business or activity"
if the vehicle is used primarily for advertising or for the purpose
of providing transportation for owners or employees of the business
or activity advertised on the vehicle.
T.
Any sign located on real property without the permission
of the property owner.
U.
Beacons, except as required by federal or state law.
V.
Intermittent signs.
W.
Sandwich board signs.
X.
Any sign, except fire signs, so erected, constructed
or maintained as to obstruct or be attached to any fire escape, window,
door or opening used as a means of egress or ingress or for fire-fighting
purposes or placed so as to interfere with opening for ventilation
required by law.
Y.
Signs immediately adjacent to Interstate 295 and the
New Jersey Turnpike.
Z.
Changeable copy signs.
AA.
Murals.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
A nonconforming sign that was lawfully erected
may continue to be maintained until the nonconforming sign is substantially
damaged or destroyed. At such time that the nonconforming sign is
substantially damaged or destroyed, the nonconforming sign must either
be removed or be brought into conformity with this article and with
any other applicable law or regulation. A nonconforming sign shall
not be enlarged or relocated.
The following shall be exempt:
A.
A sign located entirely inside the premises of a building
or enclosed space.
B.
A sign on a car, other than a prohibited vehicle sign
or signs.
C.
A statutory sign.
D.
A traffic control device or sign.
E.
Any sign not visible from a public street, sidewalk
or right-of-way, except that the foregoing does not exempt a sign
for a commercial use that is visible from an abutting residential
use.
F.
Memorial tablets or signs and historic markers as
approved by the Township Council.
G.
Signs required to be maintained by law or governmental
order, rule or regulation.
H.
Signs that are within public recreation facilities
and open space, such as, but not limited to, signs setting forth rules
and regulations of play, hours of use, parking facilities, directional
signs, scoreboards, park names and Green Acres project signs.
It shall be unlawful for any person or business
or the person in charge of the business to erect, construct or alter
a permanent sign structure whose construction is subject to the New
Jersey Uniform Construction Code without first obtaining such building
permit from the Township as may be required by the New Jersey Uniform
Construction Code. Permit fees, if any, shall be paid in accordance
with the applicable fee schedules. The requirement of a building permit
under the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code is separate and independent
of the requirement for a sign permit under this article.
Illuminated signs, in addition to conforming
to all other requirements of this article, shall be shielded in such
a manner so that no direct source of light is cast into residential
properties or into a public street or right-of-way. Illuminated signs
shall not interfere with pedestrian or motorist vision. The illumination
shall not be reflective or phosphorescent and shall perform in a steady,
nonfluctuating or nonundulating manner and shall be placed in a manner
that will not create a nuisance to other premises or interfere with
vehicular movements. Signs shall be internally illuminated wherever
possible. If not achievable, down lighting is acceptable.
Notwithstanding anything contained in this article
or the Code to the contrary, any sign erected pursuant to the provisions
of this article or the Code with a commercial message may, at the
option of the owner, contain a noncommercial message unrelated to
the business located on the premises where the sign is erected. The
noncommercial message may occupy the entire sign face or any portion
thereof. The sign face may be changed from commercial to noncommercial
messages or from one noncommercial message to another as frequently
as desired by the owner of the sign, provided that the sign is not
a prohibited sign or sign-type, and provided that the size, height,
setback and other dimensional criteria contained in this article and
Code have been satisfied.
Notwithstanding anything in this article or
the Code to the contrary, no sign or sign structure shall be subject
to any limitation based upon the content (viewpoint) of the message
contained on such sign or displayed on such sign structure.
A.
Allowed temporary and allowed permanent signs of the type described in § 154-92.4 shall be exempt from sign permitting hereunder.
B.
No sign permit shall be issued for the erection of
a prohibited sign, except as approved by variance granted under the
New Jersey Municipal Land Use Law.
C.
Unless exempt from permitting, no permanent sign shall
be erected, altered, relocated, maintained or displayed until a sign
permit is obtained from and the appropriate fee, if any, paid to the
Township.
D.
A sign lawfully erected under permit may be repainted
or have ordinary and customary repairs performed, including replacement
of plastic or glass panels, without a new sign permit; however, if
such sign is to be structurally altered in any manner, a new sign
permit shall be required and the altered sign must meet all requirements
of this article and this Code.
A.
Duration of permit. If the work authorized under a
sign permit has not been completed within six months after the date
of issuance, the permit shall become null and void and a new application
for a sign permit shall be required.
Freestanding signs, temporary and permanent,
shall comply with the following setback and sight clearance standards:
A.
Setback. Freestanding signs shall be set back at least
10 feet from any property line. The setback shall be measured from
the property line to the nearest part of the sign.
B.
Sight clearance. Freestanding signs shall have a minimum
sight clearance from two feet above grade to seven feet above grade
when located within a sight distance triangle as referenced in the
current AASHTO standards.
Double-faced signs shall be permitted in all
zoning districts, provided that the signs are designed and constructed
such that the two sign faces are back to back and directionally oriented
180° from each other. The maximum sign area allowed shall be permitted
for each sign face.
The regulations in this article apply in every
zoning district except where otherwise specified or indicated. Sign
permits are not required for signs and sign-types described and identified
in this article.
A.
Street address signs. For each parcel, residence or
business, one street address sign may be displayed. For each residence,
the street address sign shall not exceed two square feet in sign area
unless required by applicable law. For each business or parcel in
nonresidential use, the street address sign shall not exceed six square
feet in sign area unless required by applicable law.
B.
Nameplate or occupant identification signs. For each
residence, business or other occupancy, one nameplate sign may be
displayed. For residences, the nameplate or occupant identification
signs shall not exceed two square feet in sign area. For any nonresidential
use, the nameplate or occupant identification sign shall not exceed
six square feet in sign area and shall be placed adjacent to building
entrances providing direct access to the occupant. Such signs are
not permitted adjacent to common lobby entrances.
C.
Noncommercial on-site directional signs. Noncommercial
on-site directional signs not exceeding three square feet in sign
area or three feet in height shall be allowed on each parcel.
D.
Free expression signs. For each parcel, one free expression
sign not exceeding four square feet in size (sign area) may be displayed.
The free expression sign may be displayed as an attached sign or as
a freestanding sign. If displayed as a freestanding sign, the freestanding
sign shall not exceed three feet in height. A free expression sign
is in addition to any other sign permitted under this article and
is permitted in any zoning district. Only one such sign shall be permitted
on each parcel.
E.
Election signs. For each parcel, one election sign
for each candidate and each issue may be displayed along each street
frontage. An election sign may be displayed as an attached sign or
a freestanding sign. An election sign shall not exceed 32 square feet
in area, except that election signs on cardboard shall not exceed
six square feet in area. No such sign shall be erected more than 30
days prior to the election to which it pertains and all such signs
shall be removed within 10 days following the election to which it
pertains.
F.
Flagpoles. One flagpole is allowed for each parcel
except parcels greater than 1/2 acre in size shall be allowed up to
three flagpoles. Flagpoles in residential districts shall not exceed
25 feet in height and flagpoles in nonresidential districts shall
not exceed 35 feet in height.
G.
Flags. For each detached dwelling unit in a residential
district, two flags not greater than 24 square feet in sign area (each)
may be displayed. For each parcel in a multifamily residential district
and in a nonresidential district, three flags not greater than 40
square feet in sign area (each) may be displayed.
H.
Warning signs and safety signs. Warning signs and
safety signs not exceeding four square feet in size (sign area) shall
be allowed.
I.
Temporary construction signs. Three temporary construction
signs shall be allowed on each parcel. Temporary construction signs
shall not exceed 32 square feet in size (sign area) and shall be removed
no later than 14 days after the issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
J.
Temporary real estate signs generally.
(1)
Number. For each parcel, one temporary real
estate sign may be displayed on each parcel of land or part thereof
that is for sale, lease or rent. However, when more than one dwelling
unit or nonresidential space on a parcel of land is for sale, lease
or rent, there may be one real estate sign for each such unit or space.
For a parcel with dual street frontage, such parcels may have one
additional temporary real estate sign per frontage.
(2)
Size and height. Temporary real estate signs
shall not exceed four square feet in size (area) and three feet in
height for a property two acres or less in size and shall not exceed
64 square feet in size (area) and six feet in height for a property
greater than two acres in size.
(3)
Duration. Temporary real estate signs shall
be removed within 14 days following the closing or settlement of a
sale, lease or rental of the real estate that was offered for sale,
lease or rent.
(4)
Temporary open house signs may be placed on
a lot no sooner than 24 hours before and shall be removed two hours
after the open house is closed. Only one such sign shall be permitted
per lot. No more than three off-site directional signs are allowed.
Balloons, banners, etc., shall not be placed on any signs. These signs
shall include the day and time of the open house on the sign.
K.
Temporary garage/yard sale signs. For each parcel
with a lawful residential use, one temporary garage/yard sale sign
may be displayed. A temporary garage-yard sale sign shall not exceed
three square feet in size and three feet in height. A temporary garage/yard
sale sign may not be displayed for a period longer than three days
and is limited to the site it advertises (on premises).
L.
Temporary future development signs. A temporary future
development sign shall be allowed in new subdivisions and nonresidential
projects, subject to the following limitations:
(1)
Number. No more than one such sign shall be
allowed upon any property held in single and separate ownership unless
the property fronts upon more than one public street, in which event
one sign may be erected on each street frontage.
(2)
Size. For a subdivision containing fewer than
10 lots, the temporary future development sign shall not exceed 24
square feet in sign area. For a subdivision containing 10 or more
lots, the temporary future development sign shall not exceed 32 square
feet in sign area. For nonresidential developments, the temporary
future development sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in sign area.
(3)
Height. A temporary future development sign
shall not exceed six feet in height.
(4)
Duration. Temporary future development signs
shall be removed within seven days after the last dwelling has been
initially occupied.
M.
Temporary special event signs. Temporary special event signs shall be allowed as approved by the Zoning Administrative Officer as meeting the following content-neutral criteria: the signs are temporary signs for a limited time and frequency; the signs are for a special event as defined herein (see special event sign); the temporary signs will not exceed four square feet in size (area) and three feet in height; the temporary signs will not conceal or obstruct adjacent land uses or signs; the temporary signs will not conflict with the principal permitted use of the site or adjoining sites; the temporary signs will not interfere with, obstruct the vision of or distract motorists, bicyclists or pedestrians; the temporary signs will be installed and maintained in a safe manner; and the display of temporary signs for a special event shall not begin any earlier than one week before the event and shall be removed within two business days after the event. Consistent with § 154-90, approval or disapproval shall not be based on the content of the message contained (i.e., the viewpoint expressed) on such signs.
N.
Signs displayed for the direction or convenience of
the public, including signs identifying rest rooms, locations of public
telephones, height entrances or the like, with a total area not to
exceed two square feet shall be allowed.
O.
Signs identifying accessible parking spaces, including
pavement markings, shall be allowed.
P.
Signs in private parking lots which reserve parking
spaces for specific tenants, visitors, compact cars, delivery vehicles,
car pool vehicles, alternate fuel vehicles and the like shall be allowed.
Each sign shall not exceed two square feet in size.
Q.
Any information or directional sign or historical
marker erected or displayed by a public agency, including signs for
the purpose of giving directions and distances to commercial districts
in which are located the following types of commercial facilities
for the convenience of the traveling public: restaurants, motels and
establishments for the servicing of motor vehicles, shall be allowed,
provided that no such sign shall give direction or distance to any
specific business establishment.
R.
Official notices or advertisements posted or displayed
by or under the direction of any public or court officer in the performance
of his or her official or directed duties or by trustees under deeds
of trust, deeds of assignment or other similar instruments shall be
allowed, provided that all such signs shall be removed not later than
10 days after the last day of the period for which the same are required
to be displayed in order to accomplish their purpose.
S.
Temporary feather flag signs. One two-sided sign is permitted per
business and shall only be displayed during business hours and shall
be securely fastened to the ground. Said signs shall not be utilized
more than seven consecutive days; shall not interfere with pedestrian
walkways and circulation; shall only advertise goods sold on the property;
and shall not exceed 10 feet high by 26 inches wide.
[Added 4-22-2019 by Ord.
No. 2019-14]
In addition to the permanent and temporary signs and sign-types that are allowed pursuant to § 154-92.4, the following permanent and temporary signs are also permitted within the above-specified zoning districts, as set forth below. The permanent signs described below require a sign permit.
A.
Residential development permanent identification sign.
Signs for each residential development shall not exceed 64 square
feet on each side. If the sign consists of additional architectural
features or improvements that are intended to establish a theme, logo
or special identification for the project, then the 64 square feet
may be applicable only to the area of the lettering. Architectural
features that are harmonious with the sign may include, but shall
not be limited to, brick, stone or wood or focal features, fences,
walls and pedestrian shelters. All signs shall be located within the
development and may be located adjacent to any street bounding the
development and shall not exceed two in number per project. All signs
and architectural features shall not exceed six feet in height from
ground level.
B.
Multifamily housing structure identification signs.
Each multifamily housing building is permitted one sign totaling 12
square feet, indicating only the number or name of the building.
C.
Permitted institutional uses. Each lot with a permitted
institutional use is permitted one identification building-mounted
sign not exceeding a total of 32 square feet in area. Freestanding
signs, limited to one per lot, with or without a bulletin board or
reader board, shall be permitted, provided that the sign does not
exceed 24 square feet on each side. A bulletin or reader board allows
for changeable copy of text, primarily to notify the public of regularly
scheduled or special events. A bulletin or reader board is permitted
to use electronic messaging, including digital and LED lighting technology,
subject to the following standards:
[Amended 10-28-2013 by Ord. No. 2013-10]
(1)
Messages shall be text only; no pictures, video or animation shall
be permitted.
(2)
Messages shall not change or move more than one time per day. The
change shall be instantaneous without rolling, fading or the illusion
of movement and shall not flash or vary in brightness except to change
at sunrise or sunset.
(3)
There shall be no more than three lines of text permitted.
(4)
Individual letter height shall be no more than 10 inches high nor
less than four inches high.
(5)
The color of the message shall be either white or amber.
(6)
Signs shall be equipped with photosensitive equipment to automatically
dim the brightness level between sunset and sunrise.
(7)
Signs that are located within 200 feet of an existing residential
unit shall be turned off between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
(8)
Signs shall be programmed so that the display will turn dark and
emit no light in case of a malfunction.
D.
Temporary agricultural signs. Signs advertising roadside
stands selling farm products, produce and related products, provided
that such signs shall not exceed two in number, shall not exceed an
area of 10 square feet on each side of each sign and shall not be
located in any public right-of-way. Such signs must be removed during
seasons when products are not offered for sale.
[Amended 10-3-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-8]
In addition to the permanent and temporary signs and sign-types that are allowed pursuant to § 154-92.4, the following permanent and temporary signs are also permitted within the above-specified zoning districts, as set forth below. Permanent signs described below require a sign permit.
A.
For institutional uses, as specified in § 154-92.5C, except that one freestanding sign shall be permitted, the sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area.
B.
Facade signs.
(1)
If the building consists of a series of tenant
spaces attached to each other, the owner shall submit a master sign
program for the entire project. A facade signboard or area shall be
provided. The master sign program shall show the proposed color combinations,
location and size of all signs. Individual facade sign boxes shall
be not more than three feet high and shall contain not more than two
lines of text. The length may vary in accordance with the width of
tenant space, but there shall be six feet of open area between any
two signs. If individual channel letters are used, they shall not
exceed three feet in height and all lettering shall be on one line.
Spacing between tenant signs shall be as noted above. No more than
one facade sign per tenant shall be allowed.
(2)
For individual buildings not a part of a multitenant building, each tenant shall be allowed one facade sign not to exceed three feet in height and 40 square feet in total size. The regulations above in Subsection B(1) shall apply where applicable.
(3)
If the tenants are on the second or greater
floor, then no exterior facade-mounted signs are permitted for these
tenants. All such tenants shall be contained on lobby directory signs.
(4)
Banks, in addition to a facade sign permitted in § 154-92.6B(1) or (2), shall be permitted a separate facade sign not to exceed 24 square feet as part of a wall-mounted money access machine.
(5)
Traffic warning signs attached to drive-through
canopies, porte cocheres and the like. Traffic warning signs are limited
to three per drive-through facility indicating enter/entrance, exit
and clearance and shall be a maximum of 24 square inches in size (each).
C.
Freestanding signs. Each group of stores approved
as a single subdivision or site plan application may have one freestanding
sign that may not exceed 36 square feet in size. A group of stores
shall consist of two or more different tenants or owners in the same
building structure.
(1)
The freestanding sign shall contain only the
name and logo of the project. Individual tenants shall not be located
on the freestanding sign. For the purpose of this article, the phrase
"individual tenants" shall include tenants, franchisers, corporations,
subsidiaries or any business arrangement that combines more than one
use on a site or in a facility.
(2)
The freestanding sign shall be architecturally
consistent with the materials and design of the building.
(3)
A store or building on several lots shall not
have a separate freestanding sign on each lot.
(4)
All freestanding signs shall be monument signs
with a maximum height of eight feet. A sign base of up to three feet
high is permitted in addition to the sign height.
(5)
An individual enterprise shall not be permitted
a freestanding sign.
(6)
Hotels may include the name of their restaurant
on the freestanding sign.
(7)
Restaurants with drive-through facilities are permitted one
freestanding menu board sign per lane that shall not exceed 36 square
feet in size and six feet in height. A sign base of up to two feet
high is permitted in addition to the sign height.
[Amended 4-22-2019 by Ord. No. 2019-14]
(8)
Motor vehicle service stations shall be permitted a portion
of the sign to be LED (light-emitting diode), LCD (liquid-crystal
display) or digital message boards for the sole purpose of illustrating
gas or fuel prices.
[Added 9-25-2017 by Ord.
No. 2017-18]
[Amended 10-3-2011 by Ord. No. 2011-8; 10-28-2013 by Ord. No. 2013-10; 4-22-2019 by Ord. No. 2019-14]
In addition to the permanent and temporary signs and sign types that are allowed pursuant to § 154-92.4, the following permanent and temporary signs are also permitted within the above-specified zoning districts as set forth below. Permanent signs described below require a sign permit. The maximum sign size shall not exceed 60 square feet unless specified below.
A.
Master planned multibuilding developments. These are
large-scale projects consisting of two or more buildings which are
integrated into a unified and interconnected design for streets, parking,
open space, drainage facilities and signage.
(1)
In all projects, a master sign program shall
be submitted for review by and approval of the appropriate Township
land development board. An approved master sign program shall supersede
all requirements of this article in terms of size, type, design and
location of all signs within the project. The approving land development
board may grant variances from specific sections of the master sign
program.
(2)
The master sign program shall show the proposed
color combinations, locations, design and sizes of all signs within
the development. The program shall permit the following signs:
(a)
The overall project shall be permitted freestanding project
identification signs, one along each existing perimeter street or
highway. These signs shall identify only the name and logo of the
entire project. They shall be monument-based and ground-mounted horizontally
and shall not be raised in the air on poles. The permitted maximum
height is six feet. A maximum three-foot-high sign base is permitted
in addition to the sign height. The area surrounding the base of a
freestanding sign shall be appropriately landscaped and kept neat
and clean at all times.
(b)
Each office building and industrial building
shall be permitted one freestanding sign at each intersection where
the public street intersects with the site's access driveways. These
signs shall indicate the name and address of the building and may
indicate the name of the building owner. The building owner name shall
be smaller than the tenant names. A maximum of five tenant panels
are permitted, provided that letter heights on each panel do not exceed
eight inches. In addition, logos for all tenant names are permitted
on each panel. Freestanding signs may be horizontal or vertical but
shall be monument-based and not raised in the air on poles. Vertical
freestanding signs shall not exceed eight feet in height and six feet
in width. Horizontal freestanding signs shall not exceed eight feet
in width and six feet in height. A maximum of a three three-foot-high
base is permitted in addition to the sign height. Professional descriptions
are permitted such as "attorneys-at-law."
(c)
Each office building and industrial building
shall be permitted one or more tenant directory signs for multioccupied
buildings. These signs shall be located within the parking lot near
the vehicular access points. These signs shall be monument-based and
ground-mounted horizontally and shall not be raised in the air on
poles. These signs may list the occupants of the building and suite
numbers. Such signs shall not be greater than 18 square feet in area
and six feet in height.
(d)
Each office building and industrial building may add freestanding
signs in the parking lot to direct visitors to parking locations for
major tenants. Tenant names and professional names, logos and directional
arrows are permitted with tenant names and logos not to exceed eight
inches in height for each tenant. A maximum of five tenant names are
permitted on each sign with a maximum of four signs for each office
building. The building owner's name and logo may be included on these
signs in addition to the five tenant names. The maximum sign height
shall not exceed five feet and the sign width shall not exceed four
feet.
(e)
Each tenant in a multioccupied office or industrial
building shall be permitted a wall-mounted sign next to entry doors
listing the occupant's name, suite number and logo. These signs shall
not be greater than 12 inches by 12 inches. These signs may also be
painted on the entry doors.
(f)
Each office or industrial building may be permitted a maximum
of three facade signs, one each for three separate tenants, except
that if a public restaurant is provided, the restaurant also may have
a facade sign. The facade signs may be located on the same wall or
separate walls. Logos for all names are permitted. In addition to
the three facade tenant signs, the building name and address may also
be included as a facade sign. These signs and logos shall be individual
channel letters not exceeding 30 inches in height. The length may
vary according to the number of letters and logos necessary to spell
out the complete name of the tenant. The gross surface area of a wall
sign shall not exceed 10% of the area of the building wall, including
doors and windows, to which the sign is to be affixed or 50 square
feet, whichever is smaller. Two lines may be used for each tenant
name or company description, such as "attorneys-at-law." No facade
sign shall face a residential district or use.
(g)
Restaurants in office buildings shall be considered as tenants and shall be allowed to have signage as specified in §154-92.7.
(h)
Each office and industrial building is permitted to have a canopy
over each building entrance. The canopy extends over the entrance
sidewalk to provide shelter to pedestrians. Tenant identification
signage may be included on the canopy, including personal professional
names. Three sides of the canopy may have signage with letters and
logos not to exceed 24 inches. Names, logos and suite numbers may
be included. Each canopy shall be limited to a single color, which
shall be limited to one of the following colors: black, red, blue
or green.
B.
Nonmaster planned developments. The following standards are for uses located outside master planned projects. If such uses are located within a master planned project, they shall follow standards in Subsection A above.
(4)
Motor vehicle sales agency signs shall be in conformance with § 154-92.6. In addition, freestanding signs are permitted that indicate "Parts," "Service," "Customer Parking," etc. Such signs shall not exceed 15 square feet in size or six feet in height.
(5)
Office and industrial use signs shall be in conformance with § 154-92.7A(2)(b) through (e).
(6)
Motor vehicle service stations shall be permitted a portion
of the sign to be LED (light-emitting diode), LCD (liquid-crystal
display) or digital message boards for the sole purpose of illustrating
gas or fuel prices.
[Added 9-25-2017 by Ord.
No. 2017-18]
(7)
Facade signs for buildings in the I Industrial District or the SRI
Specially Restricted Industrial District shall comply with the following:
[Added 2-28-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-4]
(a)
For any principal structure in the I or the SRI district, a maximum
of one facade sign shall be permitted per each street frontage.
(b)
Each facade sign shall be limited to a maximum sign area of 60 square
feet, or 4% of the building facade area, whichever is lesser.
(c)
For multitenant buildings, each tenant space may be permitted one
façade sign of a maximum of 40 square feet, provided that the
total signage area of the building does not exceed 120 square feet,
and each individual tenant sign shall be separated by at least six
feet.
(d)
Individual facade signs shall have a sign height of no greater than
three feet.
(e)
Facade signs shall project no further than six inches from the face
of the building.
In addition to the permanent and temporary signs and sign-types that are allowed pursuant to § 154-92.5, the following permanent and temporary signs are also permitted in the PUD Zones as set forth below. Permanent signs described below require a sign permit.
