Township of Woolwich, NJ Comprehensive Sign Plan

To implement and enforce the sign regulations set forth below.

To encourage signage compatible with the character of buildings and integrated with the building's architectural design and other signs on and in the vicinity of the building.

To promote creativity in signage design, utilizing high-quality materials and craftsmanship and to develop a distinctive image.

To encourage efficient use of signage to avoid visual clutter.

To protect the public health, safety and welfare by promoting signage that effectively identifies establishments and is visible to both pedestrians and motorists alike.

Sign approval and enforcement procedures.

Any person wishing to erect, alter, modify or expand any sign shall first apply to the lessor (property owner) or its property management agent for review and approval of such sign improvement relative to an approved comprehensive sign plan. Upon receipt of such approval in writing, such person shall then apply to the Township Planner and Township Building Department for all necessary permits. The applicant shall provide all information and materials for the proposed sign(s) necessary for the property owner and the Township Planner to determine compliance with the approved comprehensive sign plan.

If the Township Planner determines the proposed sign(s) conforms to the applicable comprehensive sign plan standards and restrictions, he/she shall issue zoning approval for such sign. Notwithstanding the following requirements, the Township Planner shall have limited discretion in the administration of these standards. In the exercise of that discretion, he/she may approve a sign that deviates in a minor way from such standards, if he/she determines that the sign(s) substantially conforms to the requirements set forth in the standards.

The Township Planner shall have the final authority to approve or deny a proposed sign request, to direct the removal of any sign installed without such approval, and to enforce all provisions contained in this Part 2.

Failure to comply with such provisions may result in enforcement action by the Township Planner, which may lead to the imposition of penalties, including fines, as provided by the Township Code.

Any person aggrieved by a compliance decision rendered by the Township Planner may appeal such decision to the municipal board having jurisdiction over such matters as determined by the Township Planner after conferring with the Township Attorney.

General standards.

The sign regulations set forth in the Township Code, Article VIII, shall control for sign standards not otherwise enumerated in these regulations or this sign plan.

Flags and emblems of a government organization or of a political, civil, philanthropic, educational or religious organization are exempt from all provisions of the Township Code and this sign plan.

No exposed raceways, ballast boxes or electrical signs shall be permitted.

Sign company names or stamps shall be concealed (applicable ordinances and codes permitting).

Public safety decals in minimum sizes may be used, subject to compliance with all applicable codes.

Tenants shall not use or affix to a building or window, temporarily or permanently, any stickers or paper, cardboard, plastic or other similar low-quality signs; nor shall banners, pennants and/or flag-type signs of various materials be so used.

No merchandise, wall storage units or equipment of any sort shall be placed in front of building windows so as to obscure views into and out of the building.

Signs that are necessary for the safe movement of traffic or other directional assistance shall be permitted, provided they follow the materials, colors, and letter type standards approved for such signage. All signage of this type shall be approved by the Township Planner and lessor or lessor's authorized agent prior to installation.

Special mounting standards shall be used for traffic directional, handicapped parking and other similar on-site signage. Signs shall comply with Subtitle 1 of Title 39 (Standard Traffic Signs) and be mounted utilizing the special design details for such signs approved for the project.

Drawings showing letter sizes, letter type, fabrication, and installation shall have to be approved and signed by the lessor or lessor's authorized agent.

After a tenant has vacated the premises, the lessor shall be responsible for the removal of all prior tenant signage and restoration of areas where such signage was located to the original condition, including painting and patching, if necessary.

Signs, including bracing and support structures, shall be compatible with the principal structure to which they are attached in both overall design and materials.

All signs shall be securely attached to the building by means of metal anchors, bolts or expansion screws, subject to any required review and approval by the Township Building Department.

Architectural features of the principal structure shall not be obscured by any sign or its supporting structures or braces.

No sign shall be affixed to any roof, tree, fence, utility pole or similar structure.

No vehicle shall be parked in such a manner that it serves as a means of advertising.

Animated, moving and fluttering signs (including business-related banners, flags and pennants), blinking, flashing, sparkling or glittering signs are prohibited. Signs that produce glare or use bare bulbs, such as exposed neon and other exposed tube signs, as well as signs that use bright day-glo or fluorescent colors are prohibited. Signs that obstruct pedestrian traffic, such as sandwich board and other portable signs, are prohibited.

No permanent sign shall be painted directly on the surface of any wall, building, fence or similar structure.

(19)

The maximum graphic content coverage of any sign shall not exceed 70% of the sign face.

(20)

No sign shall have more than two faces, and such faces shall be parallel to each other.

(21)

Every permitted sign, including window lettering and exterior signs, shall be constructed using high-quality materials and shall be kept in good condition and repair at all times. All signs to the contrary shall be removed. The responsibility of making sure this requirement is satisfied shall primarily rest with the lessor of the property.

(22)

Internally illuminated sign boxes or individual letter signs with translucent faces are prohibited.

(23)

Inflatable or similar such signs shall be prohibited.

(24)

All changeable copy signs are prohibited, except for permitted menu board type signs and permitted office tenant directory signs.

(25)

Nonadvertising or noncommercial signs that are part of and accessory to bus shelters, pay phones, trash receptacles and other similar street furniture shall be permitted.

(26)

Holiday window painting or decorations such as for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. shall be permitted and exempt from window sign limitations. However, such painting or decorations shall contain no reference to named goods or services, and any text shall be strictly limited to reference to the applicable holiday and shall not include reference to any sales, promotions, merchandise or services. In addition, all such decorations shall be removed within 10 days of the applicable holiday.

(27)

All business establishments above the street level shall be prohibited from installing or otherwise placing any signage on the exterior of the building or in the windows of such building. This includes both permanent and temporary signs of any kind.

(28)

Permanent signs that advertise continuous sales, special prices, etc., are prohibited.

Sign area measurement.

The area of a sign shall be computed based on the area of the actual sign face, exclusive of any supporting structure or bracing. Where a sign has two parallel faces, only one of the faces shall be measured to determine the area of the sign.

The surface area of a sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all lettering, background, symbol or logo, representations, or other display within a single continuous boundary forming a square or rectangle.

Sign design standards.

For the purpose of determining maximum permitted sign area, minimum and maximum permitted letter height and the number of signs permitted, the following sign types are identified:

Awning/Canopy signs.

Facade/Wall signs.

Projecting/Hanging signs.

Window signs.

Office tenant directory signs.

Awning/Canopy signs.

Specifications.

Maximum area: three square feet.

Maximum sign length: six feet.

Maximum letter size: eight inches.

The terms "awning" and "canopy" as used in these sign standards are used interchangeably and shall be considered synonymous.

Awnings and canopies shall extend no farther than possible as a self-supporting structure (no visible vertical support poles or columns), shall be compatible with the building window treatment, and shall not dominate the building elevation where such structure is proposed. All awnings and canopies shall be coordinated and compatible with other existing or proposed awnings and canopies on the building. Signage shall be placed on the front valance portion of the awning structure only; for non-fabric-type canopies, signage may be located along the upper edge of the front portion of the canopy, in a manner that is compatible and complementary to the design and appearance of the building on which it is located.

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

Facade/Wall signs.

Specifications.

Maximum area: one square foot per linear foot of storefront up to 24 square feet.

Maximum sign height: 24 inches.

Maximum sign length: 12 feet.

Maximum lettering size: 16 inches, one line of text; eight inches, two lines of text (not to exceed two lines of text).

Minimum height above sidewalk: eight feet, unless greater height required by building code.

[6]

Maximum height above sidewalk: 14 feet and shall not extend above the base of the second floor window sill. All such signs shall be coordinated with the placement of other such signs along the same building elevation and, where possible, shall be located within areas of the building elevation intended to accommodate such signage. Signs shall not cover doors, windows or architectural details.

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

Facade/Wall signs shall not project above the edge of the roof or beyond the side walls of a structure.

A wall sign shall be located where architectural features or details suggest a location, size or shape for the sign. Generally, the best location for a wall sign is generally a band or blank area between the first and second floors of a building.

New wall signs shall be placed consistent with sign locations on adjacent buildings. This can establish visual continuity among storefronts.

No facade/wall sign or individual lettering shall project more than three inches from the surface to which such sign or lettering is attached.

Restaurants, cafes, luncheonettes, delicatessens and similar establishments shall also be permitted one wall-mounted or hung display board for the purpose of displaying the establishment's menu, announcing daily specials, etc. Such display board shall be made of high-quality materials, whether wood or metal, with a high-quality finish and a high level of design detail, making it both compatible and complementary to the design and appearance of the building on which it is located. Such sign shall be located adjacent to the entrance to the establishment and shall be limited to three square feet in total area.

Internally illuminated box signs and individual letter signs with translucent faces are prohibited.

Lettering shall not occupy more than 70% of the area where the sign is placed to avoid a cluttered look.

Projecting/Hanging signs.

Specifications.

Maximum area: eight square feet, no wider or longer than four feet; although signs exceeding such limits may be permitted if deemed consistent with the Design Standards for Signs (see Section 13 below) and approved by the Township Planner/Zoning Officer.

Maximum lettering size: 16 inches, one line of text; eight inches, two or mores lines of text.

Minimum height above sidewalk: eight feet.

Maximum height above sidewalk grade: 14 feet and shall not extend above the floor level of the second floor of the building.

Height above sidewalk: minimum of eight feet, unless greater clearance is required by the building code, but no greater than 14 feet or higher than the height of the first floor of the building, whichever is less.

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

One per tenant, located near main entrance and external illumination only.

Sign supports and brackets shall be compatible with the design and scale of the sign.

Internal illumination of a projecting sign is prohibited.

Projecting signs shall be constructed of metal, wood or high-density preformed foam or similar material made to look like wood, as approved by the Township Planner/Zoning Officer (see page 12, "sign materials").

The text, copy, or logo face shall not exceed 70% of the sign face of a projecting sign.

The sign shall be hung at a ninety-degree angle from the face of the building.

No hanging or projecting sign shall have a sign face that has a depth of less than two inches.

(j)

One per business frontage shall be permitted.

(k)

Only permanent signs that are an integral part of the awning or canopy shall be allowed.

(l)

The sign or logo shall not occupy more than 60% of the awning valance or the bottom 10 inches of the awning if a valance is not present.

(m)

Sign or logo shall not occupy more than 60% of the awning valance or the bottom 10 inches of the awning if a valance is not present.

(n)

Awning signs shall not be internally illuminated.

(o)

Awning signs shall be regularly cleaned and kept free of dust and visible defects.

(p)

Where applicable, awnings may contain street numbers, but telephone numbers or product advertising and product logos are prohibited.

Window signs (permanent window lettering on glass).

Specifications.

Maximum area: six square feet or 30% of a window area, whichever is less (including any sign background/design details), but in no case longer or wider than six feet.

Maximum lettering height: eight inches.

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

Interior signage other than window signage, that is clearly visible and positioned to be readily seen from outside the building, shall be prohibited.

Window signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from outside. Glass-mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or prespaced vinyl die-cut forms.

The window lettering or sign shall pertain only to the establishment occupying that portion of the premises where the window is located.

The text or sign copy of a window sign shall be limited to the business name and brief messages identifying the type of product or service or pertinent information (e.g., "reservations required" or business hours).

Window signs indicting that an establishment is "Open" or "Closed" for business shall be permitted; maximum one square foot in area and no more than one sign per business frontage. They shall be considered accessory to window signs and shall not be included in incidental window sign area calculations.

Window lettering or signs that have an exterior source of illumination or include moving or animated images or text are specifically prohibited.

Building space leasing signs shall be permitted as follows: one six-square-foot sign per street frontage for each leased space or one twelve-square-foot sign per street frontage when more than one space is available for lease in a building.

Office tenant directory signs (outside building).

Specifications.

Maximum area: six square feet; no wider or taller than three feet.

Minimum letter height: none.

Maximum lettering height: two inches.

Maximum height above sidewalk: six feet.

Maximum one per building and only to be used for upper-story tenants.

Shall be located at the principal entrance to the building serving tenants identified on the directory, shall be affixed directly to the building face and located, where possible, perpendicular to the building elevation where the entrance is located.

Sign copy. The sign copy (text) of permanent signs shall relate only to the name and/or nature of the business or service offered.

Number of signs.

Each store or establishment on the street level shall be permitted a maximum of two exterior signs, including a facade/wall sign, a projecting/hanging sign, and an awning/canopy sign for each principal building face. "Principal building face" shall be defined as any building face that includes a public/customer entrance (not emergency, service, or employee entrances) to the store or establishment to which the sign is related. Window signs shall be considered interior signs and shall be located on the inside of the window only.

Each store or establishment on the street level having frontage on two streets shall also be permitted one of the above permitted exterior signs along a secondary street frontage that is not otherwise considered a principal building face.

In addition to the above, restaurants, cafes, luncheonettes, delicatessens and similar establishments shall also be permitted to mount/hang a display board.

No more than one additional sign shall be permitted on a drive-through canopy. Its design, size and lighting shall be consistent with other proposed signs for the store or establishment.

Maintenance.

Signs and supporting hardware shall be structurally safe, clean, free of visible defects, and functioning properly at all times. The responsibility to satisfy this requirement shall rest with the lessor and shall be subject to the enforcement of the Township Planner.

Repairs to signs shall use materials and craftsmanship that are comparable or better than were used for the original sign, and shall be subject to the review and approval of the lessor as well as the Township Planner.

Colors and materials. Color is one of the most important aspects of visual communication. It can be used to catch the eye or to communicate ideas or feelings. Too many colors used simultaneously can confuse and negate the message of a sign. Even the most carefully planned sign may look unattractive due to poor color selection. Contrast is an important influence on the legibility of signs. Light letters on a dark background or dark letters on a light background are the most legible.

Limit the total number of colors used in any one sign. Small accents of several colors may make a sign unique and attractive, but the competition of large areas of many different colors decreases readability.

Colors or color combinations that interfere with legibility of the sign copy or that interfere with viewer identification of other signs shall be avoided. Bright day-glo (fluorescent) colors shall be avoided as they are distracting and do not usually blend well with other background colors.

Sign colors shall complement the colors used on the structures and the project as a whole.

Sign materials shall be of the highest quality and shall be compatible with the design of the facade where they are placed.

The selected materials shall contribute to the legibility of the sign. For example, glossy finishes are often difficult to read because of glare and reflections.

Required materials.

The following are required materials for signs unless otherwise approved by the Township Planner:

Wood (carved, sandblasted, etched, and properly sealed, primed and painted, or stained).

Metal (formed, etched, cast, engraved, and properly primed and painted or factory-coated to protect against corrosion). Such signs shall be prepared in a manner such that there shall be a three-dimensional quality to the appearance of the sign face(s).

High-density preformed foam or similar material approved by the Township Planner.

New materials may be very appropriate if properly designed in a manner consistent with these standards, and painted or otherwise finished to complement the architecture of the building.

Sign illumination. The way in which a sign is to be illuminated shall be considered carefully. Like color, illumination has considerable value for visual communication.

First, consider if the sign needs to be lighted at all. Lights in the window display may be sufficient to identify the business. This is particularly true if good window graphics are used. Often, nearby streetlights provide ample illumination of a sign after dark.

If the sign can be illuminated by an indirect source of light, this is usually the best arrangement because the sign will appear to be better integrated with the building's architecture. Light fixtures supported in front of the structure cast light on the sign and generally a portion of the face of the structure as well. Indirect lighting emphasizes the continuity of the structure's surface and signs become an integral part of the facade.

Whenever indirect lighting fixtures are used, care shall be taken to properly shield and place the light source to prevent glare from spilling over into mixed-use or residential areas and any public right-of-way. Signs shall be lighted only to the minimum level required for nighttime readability.

Signs comprised of individual letters mounted directly on a structure can often use a distinctive element of the structure's facade as a backdrop, thereby providing a better integration of the sign with the structure. In keeping with this approach, internally illuminated individual back-lighted solid letters (i.e., reverse channel or hallo-type lighted letters) are permitted.

Overall, the most appropriate type of sign illumination is indirect lighting. Again, indirect lighting helps the sign to appear as an integral part of the facade, not something that was added later. Indirect lighting is generally more appropriate for smaller single buildings. In addition, indirect lighting produces a more intimate ambience on the street.

Any illuminated sign located on any building, which sign is adjacent to a residential use, shall not be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Lighting for signage may be on a timer.

External light sources shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination of any object other than the sign.

Internally illuminated sign boxes or individual letter signs with translucent faces are prohibited. Internally illuminated reverse channel letter type signs and individual letter signs are permitted. The use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for such signs is encouraged.

Externally illuminated signs shall be lit only by downward pointing shielded fixtures where 90% of the light emitted from such fixtures is shone directly on the face of the sign. Wall-mounted goose-neck-type lighting fixtures are encouraged.

No exposed sign illumination and no floodlighting of signs or storefronts shall be permitted.

All wiring associated with signs shall be installed and maintained so as not to be in view of the public. Wiring shall under no circumstances be installed within conduit attached to the face of any building.

Any light fixture used to illuminate a sign shall be compatible in design with the architecture of the principal building to which it is attached.

Upward lighting of signs and canopies or awnings is prohibited.

Exposed bulbs or tubing, including neon, is prohibited.

The light from a illuminated sign shall be steady in nature, not flashing, moving or changing in brilliance, character, color, degree, intensity, location and type of illumination, and shall be the minimum necessary to provide for the readability of the proposed sign without shedding further illumination on nearby buildings, especially residential buildings or units in the vicinity of the sign.

Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible.

Burned-out lamps, failing ballasts or other necessary electrical components shall be replaced within two weeks.

Removal of signs.

In the event a business ceases operation for a period of time in excess of 30 days, the lessor shall, during the following ten-calendar-day period, or greater period as agreed to by the Township Planner, remove any sign identifying or advertising said business.

For the purpose of this subsection, the word "remove" shall mean:

Removal of the sign face, along with posts, columns, brackets, and/or other supporting structures; and

Restoration of the area affected to the original condition prior to such sign installation. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match adjacent portions of the structure.

A comprehensive sign plan shall be provided which has a consistent sign design theme throughout the sector. The color of letters and backgrounds shall be carefully considered in relation to the color of the materials of the building(s) and where the signs are proposed to be located. All building signs shall be compatible with the architecture of the building and shall be a subordinate rather than predominant feature of any building.

Purpose.

To implement and enforce the sign regulations set forth below.

To encourage signage compatible with the character of buildings and integrated with the building's architectural design and other signs on and in the vicinity of the building.

To promote creativity in signage design, utilizing high-quality materials and craftsmanship, and to develop a distinctive image.

To encourage efficient use of signage to avoid visual clutter.

To protect the public health, safety and welfare by promoting signage that effectively identifies establishments and is visible to both pedestrians and motorists alike.

Sign approval and enforcement procedures.

If the Township Planner determines that the proposed sign(s) conforms to the applicable comprehensive sign plan standards and restrictions, he/she shall issue zoning approval for such sign. Notwithstanding the following requirements, the Township Planner shall have limited discretion in the administration of these standards. In the exercise of that discretion, he/she may approve a sign that deviates in a minor way from such standards, if he/she determines that the sign(s) substantially conforms to the requirements set forth in the standards.

Failure to comply with such provisions may result in enforcement action by the Township Planner, which may lead to the imposition of penalties, including fines, as provided by the Township Code.

General standards.

The sign regulations set forth in the Township Code, Article VIII, shall control for sign standards not otherwise enumerated in these regulations or this sign plan.

Flags and emblems of a government organization or of a political, civil, philanthropic, educational or religious organization are exempt from all provisions of the Township Code and this sign plan.

No exposed raceways, ballast boxes or electrical signs shall be permitted.

Sign company names or stamps shall be concealed (applicable ordinances and codes permitting).

Public safety decals in minimum sizes may be used, subject to compliance with all applicable codes.

No merchandise, wall storage units or equipment of any sort shall be placed in front of building windows so as to block the view into and out of the building.

Drawings showing letter sizes, letter type, fabrication, and installation shall have to be approved and signed by the lessor or lessor's authorized agent.

Signs, including bracing and support structures, shall be compatible with the principal structure to which they are attached in both overall design and materials.

All signs shall be securely attached to the building by means of metal anchors, bolts or expansion screws, subject to any required review and approval by the Township Building Department.

Architectural features of the principal structure shall not be obscured by any sign or its supporting structures or braces.

No sign shall be affixed to any roof, tree, fence, utility pole or similar structure.

No vehicle shall be parked in such a manner that it serves as a means of advertising.

Animated, moving and fluttering signs (including business-related banners, flags and pennants), blinking, flashing, sparkling or glittering signs are prohibited. Signs that produce glare or use bare bulbs, such as exposed neon and other exposed tube signs, as well as signs that use bright day-glo or fluorescent colors, are prohibited. Signs that obstruct pedestrian traffic, such as sandwich board and other portable signs, are prohibited.

No permanent sign shall be painted directly on the surface of any wall, building, fence or similar structure.

(19)

The maximum graphic content coverage of any sign shall not exceed 70% of the sign face.

(20)

No sign shall have more than two faces, and such faces shall be parallel to each other.

(21)

(22)

Internally illuminated sign boxes or individual letter signs with translucent faces are discouraged.

(23)

Inflatable or similar such signs shall be prohibited.

(24)

All changeable copy signs are prohibited, except for permitted menu board type signs and permitted office tenant directory signs.

(25)

Nonadvertising or noncommercial signs that are part of and accessory to bus shelters, pay phones, trash receptacles and other similar street furniture shall be permitted.

(26)

(27)

All business establishments above the street level shall be prohibited from installing or otherwise placing any signage in the windows of such building. This includes both permanent and temporary signs of any kind.

(28)

Permanent signs that advertise continuous sales, special prices, etc., are prohibited.

Sign area measurement.

The surface area of a sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all lettering, background, symbols or logos, representations, or other display within a single continuous boundary forming a square or rectangle.

Sign design standards.

For the purpose of determining maximum permitted sign area, minimum and maximum permitted letter height and the number of signs permitted, the following sign types are identified:

Use-specific signs.

Awning/Canopy signs.

Facade/Wall signs.

Projecting/Hanging signs.

Window signs.

Office tenant directory signs.

Project identifiable signs (place holder).

Use-specific signs. The signage shall be designed to provide a cohesive theme throughout the entire project and shall be broken down into the following categories: big box retail, supermarkets, attached retail buildings, freestanding fast foods, banks and retail buildings.

The following criteria shall be applicable to big box retail and large-format retail:

The big box facade signage shall be either internally illuminated reverse channel or internally illuminated channel letters not exceeding 3% of a facade or 400 square feet and 40 feet in length. Up to three signs shall be permitted and shall be placed on the front and/or side building facades not less than 18 feet and not more than 30 feet above grade in the predetermined sign band on the architectural drawings.

One ground sign limited to 70 square feet and which may not exceed 10 feet in height. Sign text is limited to name and/or logo. Illumination, if desired, must be internal.

The following criteria shall be applicable to offices, hotels and supermarkets:

The supermarket signage must shall be either internally illuminated reverse channel or internally illuminated channel letters not exceeding 5% of the facade or 200 square feet and 30 feet in length. Up to two signs shall be permitted and shall be placed on the front and/or side building facades not less than 18 feet and not more than 30 feet above grade in the predetermined sign band on the architectural drawings.

One ground sign, limited to 50 square feet and which may not exceed eight feet in height. Sign text is limited to name and/or logo. Illumination, if desired, must be internal.

The following criteria shall be applicable to attached retail buildings:

The retail building signage shall be internally illuminated reverse channel, internally illuminated channel letters, or signs with external sources of illumination. With the exception of a corner tenant, which may have one sign on the front elevation and one sign on a side elevation, not more than one sign shall be permitted and shall be placed on the building facade in the predesignated sign band on the architectural drawings.

A second projecting/hanging sign identifying the tenant shall be suspended from the soffit of the pedestrian arcade or canopy awning in the area of the store's entrance door. This sign shall be consistent in shape, perpendicular to the face of the building facade and mounted at a predesignated height. Acceptable materials for such signs shall be wood, metal, or high-density preformed foam.

The following criteria shall be applicable to freestanding fast food buildings:

Major identification of the fast-food restaurant shall be limited to two ground-mounted signs, two building-mounted signs, and two freestanding signs (menu board), located at the entrance to the drive-through facility.

Building-mounted signage shall either be internally illuminated reverse channel, internally illuminated channel letters, or signs with external sources of illumination.

The freestanding signs or menu boards are limited to 24 square feet and may not exceed six feet in height. Sign text is limited to name and/or logo and the price signage. Illumination, if desired, must be internal.

The ground-mounted signs shall be limited to 60 square feet and shall not exceed a height of eight feet, excluding the sign base. Sign text is limited to name and logo. Illumination, if desired, can be external or internal.

The following criteria shall be applicable to freestanding bank buildings:

Major identification of the banks shall be limited to two building-mounted signs and one freestanding directional sign, located at the entrance to the drive-through facility.

Building-mounted signage shall either be internally illuminated reverse channel, internally illuminated channel letters or signs with external sources of illumination.

The freestanding directional sign is limited to six square feet and may not exceed four feet in height. Sign text is limited to name and/or logo and directional arrow. Illumination, if desired, must be internal.

The following criteria shall be applicable to freestanding retail buildings and restaurants less than 20,000 square feet:

Major identification of the freestanding retail buildings shall be limited to two building-mounted signs and two ground-mounted signs.

Building-mounted signage shall either be internally illuminated reverse channel, internally illuminated channel letters, or signs with external sources of illumination. With the exception of a corner tenant, which may have one sign on the front elevation and one sign on the side elevation, not more than one sign shall be permitted and shall be placed on the building facade in the predesignated sign band on the architectural drawings.

The following criteria shall be applicable to freestanding retail buildings greater than 20,000 square feet:

Major identification of the freestanding retail buildings shall be limited to two building-mounted signs and two ground-mounted signs.

The signage must be either internally illuminated reverse channel, internally illuminated channel letters or signs with external sources of illumination. With the exception of a corner tenant, which may have one sign on the front elevation and one sign on a side elevation, not more than one sign shall be permitted and shall be placed on the building facade in the predesignated sign band on the architectural drawings.

The ground-mounted sign shall be limited to 60 square feet and shall not exceed a height of eight feet, excluding the sign base. Sign text is limited to name and logo. Illumination, if desired, can be either external or internal.

The following criteria shall be applicable to freestanding office buildings:

Major identification of freestanding office buildings shall be limited to one building-mounted sign and one ground-mounted sign.

Building-mounted signage shall either be internally illuminated reverse channel, internally illuminated channel letters, or signs with external sources of illumination.

The ground-mounted signs shall be limited to 100 square feet and shall not exceed a height of eight feet, excluding the sign base. Sign text is limited to name and logo. Illumination, if desired, can be external or internal.

Awning/Canopy signs.

Specifications.

Maximum area: three square feet.

Maximum sign length: six feet.

Maximum letter size: eight inches.

The terms "awning" and "canopy" as used in these sign standards are used interchangeably and shall be considered synonymous.

Awnings and canopies shall extend no farther than possible as a self-supporting structure (no visible vertical support poles or columns), shall be compatible with the building window treatment, and shall not dominate the building elevation where such structure is proposed. All awnings and canopies shall be coordinated and compatible with other existing or proposed awnings and canopies on the building. Signage shall be placed on the front valance portion of the awning structure only; for non-fabric-type canopies, signage may be located along the upper edge of the front portion of the canopy in a manner that is compatible and complementary to the design and appearance of the building on which it is located.

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

Facade/Wall signs.

Specifications.

Maximum area: one square foot per linear foot of storefront up to 24 square feet.

Maximum sign height: 24 inches.

Maximum sign length: 12 feet.

Maximum lettering size: 16 inches, one line of text; eight inches, two lines of text (not to exceed two lines of text).

Minimum height above sidewalk: eight feet, unless greater height is required by the building code.

[6]

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

Facade/Wall signs shall not project above the edge of the roof or beyond the side walls of a structure.

New wall signs shall be placed consistent with sign locations on adjacent buildings. This can establish visual continuity among storefronts.

No facade/wall sign or individual lettering shall project more than three inches from the surface to which such sign or lettering is attached.

Internally illuminated box signs and individual letter signs with translucent faces are prohibited.

Lettering shall not occupy more than 70% of the area where the sign is placed to avoid a cluttered look.

Projecting/Hanging signs.

Specifications.

Maximum area: eight square feet, no wider or longer than four feet, though signs exceeding such limits may be permitted if deemed consistent with the Design Standards for Signs (Section 13 below) and approved by the Township Planner/Zoning Officer.

Maximum lettering size: 16 inches, one line of text; eight inches, two or mores lines of text.

Minimum height above sidewalk: eight feet.

Maximum height above sidewalk grade: 14 feet and shall not extend above the floor level of the second floor of the building.

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

One per tenant, located near the main entrance and with external illumination only.

Sign supports and brackets shall be compatible with the design and scale of the sign.

Internal illumination of a projecting sign is prohibited.

The text, copy, or logo face shall not exceed 70% of the sign face of a projecting sign.

The sign shall be hung at a ninety-degree angle from the face of the building.

No hanging or projecting sign shall have a sign face that has a depth of less than two inches.

(j)

One per business frontage shall be permitted (unless a second sign is for a second-floor tenant).

(k)

Only permanent signs that are an integral part of the awning or canopy shall be allowed.

(l)

Sign or logo shall not occupy more than 60% of the awning valance or the bottom 10 inches of the awning if a valance is not present.

(m)

Awning signs shall not be internally illuminated.

(n)

Awning signs shall be regularly cleaned and kept free of dust and visible defects.

(o)

Where applicable, awnings may contain street numbers, but telephone numbers or product advertising and product logos are prohibited.

Window signs (permanent window lettering on glass).

Specifications.

Maximum area: six square feet or 30% of a window area, whichever is less (including any sign background/design details), but in no case longer or wider than six feet.

Maximum lettering height: eight inches.

Noncommercial product logos and signature marks shall be permitted on a case-by-case basis subject to the Design Standards for Signs.

Interior signage other than window signage, that is clearly visible and positioned to be readily seen for outside the building, shall be prohibited.

The window lettering or sign shall pertain only to the establishment occupying that portion of the premises where the window is located.

Window lettering or signs that have an exterior source of illumination or include moving or animated images or text are specifically prohibited.

Office tenant directory signs (outside building).

Specifications.

Maximum area: six square feet; no wider or taller than three feet.

Minimum letter height: none.

Maximum lettering height: two inches.

Maximum height above sidewalk: six feet.

Maximum of one per building and only to be used for upper-story tenants.

The signs shall be located at the principal entrance to the building serving tenants identified on the directory, shall be affixed directly to the building face and shall be located, where possible, perpendicular to building elevation where the entrance is located.

Sign copy. The sign copy (text) of permanent signs shall relate only to the name and/or nature of the business or service offered.

Number of signs.

In addition to the above, restaurants, cafes, luncheonettes, delicatessens and similar establishments shall also be permitted to mount/hang a display board.

No more than one additional sign shall be permitted on a drive-through canopy. Its design, size and lighting shall be consistent with other proposed signs for the store or establishment.

Maintenance.

Sign colors shall complement the colors used on the structures and the project as a whole.

Sign materials shall be of the highest quality and shall be compatible with the design of the facade where they are placed.

The selected materials shall contribute to the legibility of the sign. For example, glossy finishes are often difficult to read because of glare and reflections.

Materials.

The following are the permitted materials for signs unless otherwise approved by the Township Planner:

Wood (carved, sandblasted, etched, and properly sealed, primed and painted, or stained).

High-density preformed foam or similar material approved by the Township Planner.

New materials may be very appropriate if properly designed in a manner consistent with these standards, and painted or otherwise finished to complement the architecture of the building.

Sign illumination. The way in which a sign is to be illuminated shall be considered carefully. Like color, illumination has considerable value for visual communication.

Signs comprised of individual letters mounted directly on a structure can often use a distinctive element of the structure's facade as a backdrop, thereby providing a better integration of the sign with the structure. In keeping with this approach, internally illuminated individual backlighted solid letters (i.e., reverse channel or hallo-type lighted letters) are permitted.

Any illuminated sign located on any building, which sign is adjacent to a residential use, shall be turned off no more than one hour after closing unless necessary for security purposes.

Lighting for signage may be on a timer.

External light sources shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination of any object other than the sign.

Internally illuminated sign boxes or individual letter signs with translucent faces are discouraged. Internally illuminated reverse channel letter type signs and individual letter signs are permitted. The use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) for such signs is encouraged.

No exposed sign illumination and no floodlighting of signs or storefronts shall be permitted.

Any light fixture used to illuminate a sign shall be compatible in design with the architecture of the principal building to which it is attached.

Upward lighting of signs and canopies or awnings is prohibited.

Exposed bulbs or tubing, including neon, are prohibited.

Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible.

Burned-out lamps, failing ballasts or other necessary electrical components shall be replaced within two weeks.

Removal of signs (except in the RC-3 District).

For the purpose of this section, the word "remove" shall mean:

Removal of the sign face, along with posts, columns, brackets, and/or other supporting structures; and