A. 
Applicability. The regulations set forth in this article are not applicable to traffic regulatory or traffic safety signs on private property which are deemed unnecessary for public safety or to signs on the interior of a structure which are not visible to outside view.
B. 
Sign area. Except where otherwise indicated, the "sign area" shall be construed to mean the aggregate area of all signs on the lot.
C. 
Abandonment. At the termination of a business, commercial or industrial enterprise, all signs pertaining thereto shall immediately be removed from the public view. Responsibility for violation shall reside with the property owner, according to the latest official tax roll listings.
D. 
District standards. Business establishments which are located within districts where a unified theme is encouraged or where specific design standards are established may be permitted to vary from the requirements of this article, subject to study by the Site Plan Review Committee and to review and approval by the Planning Board. In considering such signs, the Planning Board shall use the following criteria:
(1) 
The aesthetic appearance shall be compatible with the neighboring signs and facades.
(2) 
The proposed signs shall not contribute to undue visual confusion.
(3) 
The proposed signs shall conform to any design concept established for the specific area.
(4) 
The proposed signs shall match, complement or otherwise be compatible with the existing architectural features of the building and shall not clash, cover, obscure or interfere with these features.
E. 
Street address. The street address shall be displayed prominently in Arabic numerals, facing the street, and shall be of a size and placement visible and legible to police, fire and emergency services personnel.
F. 
Reflective paint. Reflective, neon or iridescent paint is prohibited for signs.
G. 
Damaged and weathered signs. Any sign where elements of the display area or panel are visibly cracked, broken or discolored, where the support structure or frame members are visibly corroded, bent, broken, torn or dented, or where the message can no longer be read under normal viewing conditions shall be immediately repaired or removed and replaced with a conforming sign.
H. 
Construction signs. One nonilluminated construction sign, not exceeding 16 square feet in area, shall be permitted on construction sites, provided that it shall be removed within seven days after the issuance of the first certificate of occupancy.
The following types of signs are specifically prohibited in all districts of the City:
A. 
Signs with statements, words or pictures of any obscene, indecent or immoral character such as would offend public morals or general standards of decency.
B. 
Signs which simulate or include official traffic signs or signals or which contain words such as "stop," "go slow," "caution," "danger," "warning" or like words or designations.
C. 
Illuminated signs in which the colors of red, green or amber are used and which are located within a radius of 100 feet of a traffic signal.
D. 
Signs which are internally and/or externally illuminated by rotating, flashing or intermittent lights and signs which move and rotate in any manner or which have such components, except that signs not exceeding 10 square feet which denote time-and-temperature changes are permitted.
E. 
Any sign which obscures a sign displayed by a public body or which obscures the motorist's view of oncoming traffic.
F. 
Signs and decorations which utilize or take the form of banners, pennants, printed sails, series of posters, ribbons, streamers, strings of light bulbs, spinners, balloons or other stationary or moving devices, except as permitted as temporary signs.
G. 
Signs painted directly on the outside of buildings.
H. 
Signs used to advertise garage sales, yard sales, rummage sales, flea markets or other such activities, except that one such sign may be displayed on the subject property for a period not to exceed 14 days.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. I).
I. 
Temporary signs mounted, stapled, nailed, pinned, taped, glued or otherwise affixed to the exterior walls of buildings and privately owned fixtures.
J. 
A-frame signs, except those which are approved as temporary signs.
K. 
Signs which are erected, attached to or constructed on the roof of any building or structure.
L. 
Private signs located within the street right-of-way or which are attached to public utility poles, lampposts, public signs or like structures.
M. 
Signs which are affixed to other signs.
N. 
On-site and off-site business signs that are portable signs held by hand, including but not limited to banners, pennants, placards, posters and spinners.
O. 
All other sign types, uses and purposes not explicitly permitted.
A. 
Hotels and motel inns may have one identification sign for each lot frontage but not more than two. Such sign shall not exceed an area of 150 square feet.
B. 
A theater may be allowed:
(1) 
A marquee sign, which shall not exceed 100 square feet in aggregate area and five feet in height. Said sign shall be limited to letters used for identifying the name of the theater and the current or coming attractions to be played therein.
(2) 
Two outdoor display cases, which shall not exceed 20 square feet each and 10 feet in height.
C. 
A gasoline station may have:
(1) 
One freestanding or flat sign for each lot frontage but not more than two signs for one gasoline station. The aggregate area of such sign shall not exceed 0.5 times the principal lot frontage or 15% of the facade area and shall not exceed 20 feet in height.
(2) 
One pump island canopy sign for each pump island. Such pump sign shall not exceed 10 square feet in area and 15 feet in height from ground level.
(3) 
One flat identification sign not exceeding 12 square feet in area.
D. 
A commercial establishment on the second floor of a two-story building may have:
(1) 
One window sign.
(2) 
Window signs shall be no more than 20% of the total window area.
(3) 
Temporary window signs are not permitted.
The sign types in this section shall be permitted in the City of East Orange, subject to applicable regulations contained elsewhere in this article.
A. 
Monument sign.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating the dimensions and appearance of monument signs is to preserve or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the places in which they exist. Regulations also ensure that the messages on monument signs are clear and not cluttered by excessive information.
(2) 
Components.
(a) 
Monument signs typically consist of a solid structural base with a framework of the same material. Monument signs have a message area that consists of individual letters that are externally illuminated. Internally illuminated cabinets are prohibited.
(b) 
Primary tenant or development name: usually the largest name or logo appearing on a freestanding sign, and placed at the very top.
(c) 
Secondary tenants: smaller signs located below the primary tenant.
(d) 
Street address: number and street name required for all monument signs.
(e) 
Message board. Some uses may employ a message board with area for temporary banners to advertise events, sales or attractions. Electronic or manual changeable letters are prohibited.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
Monument signs for businesses or shopping centers shall be permitted where the primary street frontage is greater than 50 feet and where the setback to the main building is greater than 10 feet. Monument signs shall be placed in the front yard area at least five feet distant from the site's principal building. One monument sign is permitted per street frontage.
(b) 
Nonresidential uses in residential zones are permitted one monument sign per street frontage.
(c) 
The base of the sign shall be landscaped. Landscaping shall not obscure text. Landscaping shall not block sight lines of the driveway or circulation aisles.
(d) 
Monument signs shall be limited to the name of the business and street address, with an optional logo and/or message board. Other messages, including but not limited to list of services or products, phone numbers, sales or promotions and slogans, are prohibited unless included within the message board.
(e) 
Monument signs for shopping centers with more than one tenant shall be limited to a maximum of five business names, including the name of the retail center, if it has one.
(f) 
A monument sign shall use between 5% to 10% of its area for address identification. Letters and numbers shall be at least six inches high and be legible from the street.
(g) 
Monument signs shall be internally illuminated with letter cutouts on an opaque background or with directed external lighting shielded to prevent glare.
(h) 
Monument signs shall be designed to match or complement the colors and architectural features of the adjacent building and incorporate similar architectural elements at top, sides or base to frame the sign. Monument signs shall include a cap.
(i) 
If a monument sign contains listings for multiple tenants, the information shall be presented in a clear and consistent manner. Color, font size and style shall be coordinated across a monument sign.
(j) 
If a monument sign is intended to be seen primarily by motorists, letter size shall be such that a motorist would not need to slow down drastically to read the contents of the sign.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Monument signs shall be placed in the front yard area at least five feet distant from the site's principal building. Monument signs shall not block sight lines at the driveway or circulation aisles.
(b) 
No portion of the monument sign shall be located within the public right-of-way.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.A for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.A: Monument Sign
Quantity
1 per street frontage; 2 maximum
Area
Maximum 80 square feet;
see Subsection A(6), Conditions
a.
Width
Maximum 10 feet;
see Subsection A(6), Conditions
b.
Height
Maximum 8 feet;
see Subsection A(6), Conditions
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 2 feet
e.
Clearance
n/a
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
Minimum 6 inches
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170A(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions for monument signs for nonresidential uses in residential zones.
(a) 
The width of monument signs in residential zones R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-O and CCC shall not exceed eight feet and the height of such signs shall not exceed six feet.
B. 
Wall-mounted sign.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating wall-mounted signs is to ensure proper dimensioning and placement on the building — with respect to existing architectural features — to maintain or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the place in which they are located. Lighting of wall-mounted signs is also regulated to reduce glare.
(2) 
Components.
(a) 
Components of wall-mounted signs include the letters, background, lighting and an optional logo. The simplest wall-mounted signs consist of letters only, mounted directly on the wall. Wall-mounted signs are only permitted if they are of the following construction types:
[1] 
Cut-out letters. Letters are individually attached to the wall or on a separate background panel and shall be externally illuminated.
[2] 
Channel letters. Each letter has its own internal lighting element, individually attached to the wall or onto a separate background panel. The letter shall be translucent or solid to create a backlit "halo" effect.
[3] 
Flat panel. The letters are printed or etched on same surface as the background, which is then affixed to the wall and shall be lit externally.
[4] 
Box or cabinet signs are prohibited. This is the type where letters are printed or etched on a box deep enough to house internal lighting. The box shall be translucent, and the letters are silhouetted; or the box shall be opaque and only the letters are translucent.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
All businesses are permitted one wall-mounted sign. A business may have one additional wall sign where it has a secondary street frontage, but in no case shall a business have more than two wall-mounted signs in total. Where a business is allowed more than one wall-mounted sign, each sign shall be on a separate facade.
(b) 
Wall-mounted signs shall consist of the name and logo of the business. Wall-mounted signs shall not list products, sales or other promotional messages. Wall signs shall not contain address information, phone number or other contact information.
(c) 
Height and width shall be measured using smallest rectangle that fully encompasses the entire extent of letters, logo and background.
(d) 
Wall-mounted signs shall not be wider than building face or tenant space.
(e) 
Wall-mounted signs shall not project vertically above the roofline.
(f) 
Where multiple wall-mounted signs are present on a single building (i.e., for retail tenants in a shopping center), signage shall be coordinated in terms of scale, placement, colors and materials.
(g) 
Wall-mounted signs shall be illuminated at least from dusk to dawn. External lights shall be shielded from direct view to reduce glare.
(h) 
Electrical raceways, conduits and wiring shall not be exposed. Internal lighting elements shall be contained completely within the sign assembly or inside the wall.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Wall-mounted signs shall be placed where the architectural features suggest the best placement for signage. They shall be vertically aligned with the center of an architectural feature such as a storefront window, entry portal or width of a bay, or overall retail space.
(b) 
Placement of wall-mounted signs shall be compatible with existing architectural features such as bays, openings, pilasters, etc. They shall not interrupt or obscure these features or cause visual disharmony.
(c) 
Wall-mounted signs are not permitted above the ground floor of buildings.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.B for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.B: Wall-Mounted Sign
Quantity of signs
1 per business; 2 for corner properties
Sign area
1.5 square feet per linear foot of building front
a.
Width
Maximum 90% of width of building front
b.
Height
Maximum 24 inches
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 7 inches
e.
Clearance
Minimum 7 feet
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
Maximum 18 inches
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170B(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
C. 
Awning sign.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating awning signs is to ensure proper dimensioning and placement on the building — with respect to existing architectural features — to maintain or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the place in which they are located. Awning signs are also regulated to ensure that they are made of durable materials and are fixed or replaced if damaged.
(2) 
Components.
(a) 
The following awning sign types are permitted:
[1] 
Shed and patio shed awnings with or without signbands.
[2] 
Long dome awnings with or without signbands.
[3] 
Dome awnings with or without signbands or marquee.
[4] 
Marquee awnings.
[5] 
Gable awnings.
(b) 
The following awning sign types are prohibited:
[1] 
Waterfall and multilevel waterfall awnings.
[2] 
Box awnings.
[3] 
Translucent awnings that enable internal lighting to make the awning glow.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
Awning signs shall contain no more than two rows of text.
(b) 
The height of the valance of an awning sign shall not exceed 12 inches.
(c) 
Letters, numbers and graphics may be printed only on the valance portion of the awning sign and must be between five to 10 inches in height and cover no more than 70% of the valance area. A logo may be printed on the flat surfaces of a shed awning sign. The size of the logo shall not exceed more than 50% of the area of the flat surface.
(d) 
Awning signs shall be made of a high-quality canvas, woven acrylic or similar material. Vinyl, plastic, Mylar and other shiny or glossy materials are prohibited. "Egg crate" undersides to awning signs are prohibited.
(e) 
Awning signs shall not be internally illuminated or backlit.
(f) 
Awning signs shall be colored or patterned so as to match or complement the architecture or the brand of the business.
(g) 
Torn or damaged awning signs shall be repaired or replaced immediately pursuant to § 51-166G.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Awning signs shall not obscure architectural features such as pilasters, friezes, roof eaves, roofs, etc. Where possible, they shall be contained within a storefront window bay. Awning signs that span continuously across the entire face of the building's facade are discouraged. Awning signs that span corners are discouraged.
(b) 
Awning signs shall not extend beyond the width of the building or tenant space. Awning signs shall not project above the roofline or extend into the floor above.
(c) 
No portion of an awning sign shall be less than seven feet above the surface over which it projects or project more than four feet into a public right-of-way.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.C for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.C: Awning Sign
Quantity
1 per window or storefront bay
Area
n/a
a.
Width
Maximum equals width of building front
b.
Height
n/a
c.
Valance height
Maximum 12 inches
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 4 feet
e.
Clearance
Minimum 7 feet
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
Minimum 5 inches; maximum 10 inches
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170C(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
D. 
Window sign.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating the dimensions of window signs is to protect public safety by preventing cluttering of storefront windows and maintaining visibility through storefront windows.
(2) 
Components. Window signs are classified into the following construction types:
(a) 
Poster or placard. A sign printed on paper, card stock or other material which is affixed to the window or placed against it.
(b) 
Label applique letters. A sticker that is applied to the window. Label appliques shall consist of individual letters or graphics with no background.
(c) 
Painted letters. Painted directly on the window.
(d) 
Hanging sign. Signs that are hanging from the ceiling behind the window. Usually these signs require electricity for illumination. Examples include neon signs or an internally illuminated box or cabinet sign.
(e) 
Video display sign. Signs consisting of electronically generated text and images displayed on a computer monitor, television screen, LCD photo frame or similar device.
(f) 
Door sign. Signs applied to the glass portion of an entrance doorway.
(g) 
Neon sign.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
Window signs shall not interfere with the primary function of windows, which is to enable passersby and public safety personnel to see through windows into premises and product displays.
(b) 
Window signs shall be no larger than 25% of the total area of the glass panel onto which they are applied. Commercial, office or institutional establishments on the second floor of a two-story building are permitted to have window signs that shall be no larger than 25% of the total area of the glass panel onto which they are applied. Window signs are not permitted above the second level of any structure.
(c) 
Window signs shall be allowed to list services and/or products sold on the premises or provide phone numbers, operating hours or other messages, provided that the total aggregate area of these messages does not exceed the area utilized for the business identification.
(d) 
Merchandise or other objects that are located inside within three feet of the window and that are not part of a commercial window display shall be considered window signs, subject to the provisions in Subsection D(3)(b).
(e) 
Door signs shall be no larger than 25% of the area of the door onto which it is applied.
(f) 
The total dimension of all signs, including combinations of neon signs, posters, etchings, painted letters, etc., shall be included in total calculations of window sign area.
(g) 
Neon lights outlining windows are prohibited.
(h) 
Letters on window signs, including neon signs and door signs, shall not be taller than eight inches.
(i) 
Video display signs are permitted only behind and facing the inside of ground-floor windows.
(j) 
Video display signs shall be no larger than two square feet. The dimensions of video displays shall be included in the calculations of window sign areas.
(k) 
Audio speakers or any form of sound emanating from video display devices is prohibited.
(l) 
Except for neon signs and video display signs, where permitted, and ambient lighting, window signs shall not be illuminated.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Window signs shall be applied to or placed facing the interior side of the window.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.D for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.D: Window Sign
Quantity
See Table 51-168[1]
Area
See Subsection D(3), General provisions
a.
Width
n/a
b.
Height
n/a
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
n/a
e.
Clearance
n/a
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
Maximum 8 inches
[1]
Editor's Note: The Table of Permitted Sign Types by Zone (Table 51-168) is attached to this chapter.
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170D(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
E. 
Projecting sign.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating the dimensions and lighting of projecting signs is to preserve or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic qualities of the place in which they are located and to ensure adequate clearance above the public right-of-way.
(2) 
Components. Components of projecting signs include the letters, background, lighting and an optional logo. The simplest projecting signs consist of letters only, mounted directly on a panel. Permitted projecting signs are classified into the following construction types:
(a) 
Cut-out or individually shaped letters or symbols. Letters or symbols are individually attached on a wall or attached to a panel attached to the wall; shall be externally lit.
(b) 
Flat panel. The letters are printed or etched on same surface as the background, which is then affixed to the wall; shall be externally lit.
(c) 
Box or cabinet signs are prohibited. These are signs where the letters are printed or etched on a box deep enough to house internal lighting. The box shall be translucent, and the letters are silhouetted; or the box shall be opaque and only the letters are translucent.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
A business shall be permitted one projecting sign where its primary frontage is no more than five feet from the front setback line. Businesses that have a secondary frontage on another street that is no more than two feet from the side setback line shall be permitted to have one additional projecting sign on that facade.
(b) 
Projecting signs shall be on a single plane and project at a 90° angle from the face of the building. Signs may be double-sided.
(c) 
Projecting signs shall be permitted only for businesses that have a primary entrance on the ground floor.
(d) 
Text and graphics on the projecting sign shall be limited to the name and logo of the business only. Slogans or text advertising products or services are permitted if letters are not more than three inches in height and take up no more than 25% of the area of the sign. Address labels, operating hours and contact information are prohibited.
(e) 
Mounting hardware, such as supports and brackets, may be simple and unobtrusive or be highly decorative, but must complement the design of the sign, the building, or both.
(f) 
For buildings with multiple signs (e.g., for multiple retail tenants in a shopping center), mounting hardware or sign shapes, sizes and colors shall be coordinated.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Projecting signs shall not extend beyond the top of the roofline.
(b) 
On multistory buildings, projecting signs shall not extend above the bottom of the second-floor window sills, unless placed above a marquee sign.
(c) 
No portion of a projecting sign shall be less than eight feet above the surface over which it projects or project more than four feet from the wall on which it is attached into a public right-of-way.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.E for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.E: Projecting Sign
Quantity
1 per facade, 2 maximum
Area
8 square feet
a.
Width
Maximum 4 feet
b.
Height
Maximum 4 feet
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 4 feet
e.
Clearance
Minimum 8 feet
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
Maximum 8 inches
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170E(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
F. 
Marquee.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating marquees is to prevent any risk to public health and safety. Furthermore, marquees are regulated to permit adequate clearance above the public right-of-way and to ensure proper dimensioning and placement on the building with respect to existing architectural features.
(2) 
Components. Marquees are typically structural features of buildings. Their components and materials can vary considerably. Anchors, bolts and supporting rods are part of the interior of marquees. Signs, typically in the form of channel letters, are affixed to marquees.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
All marquees, including anchors, bolts, supporting rods and braces thereof, shall be constructed of incombustible materials and shall be designed by a structural engineer and approved by the Building Inspector.
(b) 
No portion of a marquee shall be less than 10 feet above the sidewalk.
(c) 
No marquee shall be permitted to extend closer to the curbline than three feet.
(d) 
No marquee shall be wider than the entrance of the building plus two feet on each side thereof.
(e) 
Where an entrance consists of multiple adjacent doors, the multiple doors shall be treated as one single entrance.
(f) 
Marquees shall be supported solely by the building to which they are attached, and no columns or posts shall be used as supports in the required front yard or street right-of-way.
(g) 
A projecting sign may be placed above a marquee.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Marquees shall only be located above the main entrance of a building.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.F for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.F: Marquee
Quantity
1
Area
n/a
a.
Width
Width of entrance bay
b.
Height
Maximum 50% of height of building
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 10 feet
e.
Clearance
Minimum 10 feet
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
n/a
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170F(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
G. 
Entrance canopy.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating entrance canopies is to ensure durability and to prevent any risk to public health and safety. Furthermore, entrance canopies are regulated to permit adequate clearance above the public right-of-way and to ensure proper dimensioning and placement on the building with respect to existing architectural features.
(2) 
Components. Entrance canopies consist of a canopy of canvas, cloth, or other materials whose shape is supported by a framework of rods and held up by posts secured to the ground. The canopy may consist of a flat front and valances.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
Entrance canopies shall be made of canvas, cloth or other similar materials and of fiberglass, glass or nonferrous metals. In no case shall entrance canopies include wood or wood products, vinyl, glossy acrylic, masonite or similar materials.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
In all cases where an entrance canopy is placed upon, attached to or forming any part of any building and such awning, entrance canopy or shelter canopy projects over a sidewalk or similar place where the public is accustomed to walk, the rigid or metal parts for any such awning entrance canopy or shelter canopy shall have a clearance of not less than seven feet from the sidewalk elevations, and any nonrigid valance of any such awning, entrance canopy or shelter canopy shall have a clearance of not less than 6 1/2 feet from sidewalk elevation.
(b) 
Entrance canopies shall not extend more than eight feet into the public right-of-way and shall be at least two feet distant from the street curb.
(c) 
The name, logo and street address of the establishment shall be placed on the face or sides of the canopy in letters no taller than eight inches. Entrance canopies shall not contain a list of services or products, promotional messages, slogans, address information, operating hours or contact information.
(d) 
Entrance canopies installed with sidewalk illumination systems shall direct light downward.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.G for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.G: Entrance Canopy
Quantity
1
Area
n/a
a.
Width
No wider than width of entrance bay
b.
Height
n/a
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
See § 51-170G(4)(b)
e.
Clearance
Minimum 7 feet
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
Maximum 8 inches
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170G(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
H. 
Nameplate.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating the sizes, colors and materials of nameplates is to preserve or improve public safety as well as the aesthetic quality of the place in which they are located.
(2) 
Components. Nameplates typically consist of either a panel or individual letters applied to a building wall.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
One nameplate shall be permitted per address.
(b) 
Nameplates shall not exceed three square feet in display area.
(c) 
Nameplates shall be constructed of durable materials. Tape and paper shall not be used to create nameplates.
(d) 
Nameplates shall include the address number and street in letters at least six inches in height if a separate address sign is not provided.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Nameplates shall be attached to the wall within 10 feet of an entrance to the building.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.H for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.H: Nameplate
Quantity
1
Area
3 square feet
a.
Width
Maximum 18 inches
b.
Height
Maximum 2 feet
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 3 inches
e.
Clearance
Minimum 4 feet
f.
Apex
Maximum 7 feet
g.
Letter height
n/a
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170H(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
I. 
Address sign.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating address signs is to protect public safety by ensuring the visibility of street addresses from the street. Their sizes, colors and materials are also regulated to preserve or improve the aesthetic quality of the place in which they are located.
(2) 
Components. Address signs typically consist of either a panel or individual letters applied to a building wall.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
Address sign numerals applied to commercial, multifamily residential buildings, institutional, office or industrial buildings shall be between four and 10 inches tall. Address sign numerals applied to individual dwelling units shall be at least two inches tall.
(b) 
Address signs shall be easily visible by using colors or materials that contrast with their background.
(c) 
Address signs shall not be incorporated into other signs except in the case of address numerals placed on the valance of awning signs.
(d) 
Address signs shall be constructed of durable materials. Tape and paper shall not be used to create address signs.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Address signs must be placed in a conspicuous location on the front of the building, preferably on the primary entrance or above it.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.I for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.I: Address Sign
Quantity
1
Area
Maximum 1 square foot
a.
Width
Maximum 12 inches
b.
Height
Maximum 12 inches
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 3 inches
e.
Clearance
Minimum 4.5 feet
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
See Subsection I(3), General provisions
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170I(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
J. 
Temporary sign, banner.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating temporary banner signs is to protect public safety by ensuring that they are removed after a specified time period. Furthermore, the dimensions of temporary banner signs are regulated to prevent the signs from cluttering or obscuring the building facade.
(2) 
Components. A banner typically consist of a large printed sign, usually on a weather-durable material like vinyl, to achieve the same kind of visibility as most wall-mounted signs. Because of its light weight it can be attached to nearly any surface where a more permanent wall sign would be difficult or impossible to mount, such as on highly decorated or ornate surfaces or on fences.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
Banners must be temporary and shall not be used in place of or in addition to other forms of permanent signage.
(b) 
Banners shall only be permitted to announce events of limited occurrence or duration, such as sales, grand openings or change of tenant or for public functions or fund-raising events for charitable, educational, civic, religious or similar purposes.
(c) 
Banners may be in place no longer than 30 days in a calendar year. Days do not necessarily need to be consecutive.
(d) 
Banners shall not exceed six feet in height or 16 feet in width, with a maximum area of 32 square feet. Banners shall not be wider than the building on which it is applied.
(e) 
Only one banner is permitted to be displayed at a time.
(f) 
"For sale" or "for lease" banners for buildings or space within buildings are exempt from the time limit but shall be removed before or upon sale or lease.
(g) 
Banners shall be constructed of durable materials that can sustain winds and inclement weather.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Banners for commercial and industrial uses shall be located on the building. Banners for public and institutional uses may be located on the building or on premises.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.J for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.J: Temporary Sign, Banner
Quantity
1
Area
32 square feet
a.
Width
Maximum 16 feet
b.
Height
Maximum 5 feet
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
n/a
e.
Clearance
Minimum 8 feet
f.
Apex
Maximum 16 feet
g.
Letter height
Maximum 2.5 feet
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170J(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
K. 
Temporary sign, freestanding.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating temporary freestanding signs is to protect public safety by ensuring that they are removed after a specified time period. The dimensions of temporary freestanding signs are regulated to ensure adequate clearance along the public right-of-way.
(2) 
Components. A freestanding, double-sided temporary sign is placed at the entrance to a business in a primarily pedestrian environment. It is convenient to move and store and be placed outside on a day-to-day basis and removed at the close of business each day.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
One temporary freestanding sign shall be permitted for each business. Temporary freestanding signs should be made of high quality materials and be weather-durable. Temporary freestanding signs shall not exceed 42 inches in height or 26 inches in width.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Temporary freestanding signs shall not be placed more than five feet from the building wall.
(b) 
Temporary freestanding signs shall be stored inside when the business is not open or when the sign is not in use. Temporary freestanding signs shall also be stored inside during high winds or other weather conditions that might pose a hazard to public safety.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.K for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.K: Temporary Sign, Freestanding
Quantity
1
Area
8 square feet
a.
Width
Maximum 26 inches
b.
Height
Maximum 42 inches
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 5 feet
e.
Clearance
n/a
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
n/a
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170K(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
L. 
Temporary sign, window.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating temporary window signs is to protect public safety by ensuring that they are removed after a limited time period. The dimensions of temporary window signs are regulated to prevent cluttering the storefront window.
(2) 
Components. Temporary window signs typically are affixed to windows.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
Temporary window signs shall be limited to no more than 20% of the area of the glass panel on which they are displayed, such that the aggregate area of permanent and temporary window signs does not exceed 30% of the glass panel on which they are displayed. The area of temporary window signs shall not be included in the calculations of the areas of permanent window signs.
(b) 
Temporary window signs may be displayed for a maximum of 30 days in a calendar year. The days do not need to be consecutive. A "day" shall mean any part of the day for any duration.
(c) 
"For sale" or "for lease" signs are exempt from this time limit but shall be removed before or upon sale or lease.
(d) 
Temporary window signs may not be illuminated.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Temporary window signs shall be affixed to the interior of the window.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.L for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.L: Temporary Sign, Window
Quantity
n/a
Area
Maximum 20% of area of glass panel
a.
Width
n/a
b.
Height
n/a
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
n/a
e.
Clearance
n/a
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
n/a
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170L(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.
M. 
Roof signs. Roof signs are prohibited throughout the City. Roof-mounted signs are any signs mounted above the roofline of any structure and typically feature an externally illuminated flat panel or internally illuminated letters or images. Any component above a building's roofline is prohibited.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. I).
N. 
Message board.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating message boards is to prohibit them in order to prevent any nuisance or risk to public safety and health from illuminated messages. Furthermore, the dimensions of message boards are regulated so that they are proportionate with the sign framework in which they are installed. Bulletin boards are not message boards.
O. 
Outdoor display case.
(1) 
Intent. The intent of regulating outdoor display cases is to protect public health and safety by ensuring that their content is maintained and kept current. Furthermore, the dimensions of outdoor display cases are regulated so that they do not clutter the facades of the buildings on which they are mounted.
(2) 
Components. Outdoor display cases consist of lockable metal or wood-framed cabinet with transparent windows mounted onto a building wall.
(3) 
General provisions.
(a) 
One outdoor display case is permitted per every 20 feet of frontage.
(b) 
Each outdoor display case shall not exceed a total area of six square feet.
(c) 
Outdoor display cases are permitted to be illuminated in order for their contents to be visible in the dark.
(d) 
The contents of outdoor display cases shall be maintained and kept current. Faded, torn and outdated contacts shall be removed and replaced immediately pursuant to § 51-166G.
(e) 
Theaters are permitted to have greater quantities and dimensions of outdoor display cases, at the discretion of the Planning Board.
(4) 
Placement.
(a) 
Outdoor display cases shall be attached to the building walls nearest to the main entrance.
(b) 
Outdoor display cases shall not be attached to storefront windows.
(5) 
Permitted quantities and dimensions.
(a) 
Refer to Table 51-170.O for permitted quantities and dimensions.
Table 51-170.O: Outdoor Display Case
Quantity
1
Area
Maximum 6 square feet
a.
Width
Maximum 3.5 feet
b.
Height
Maximum 3.5 feet
c.
Valance height
n/a
d.
Depth/projection
Maximum 5 inches
e.
Clearance
Minimum 4 feet
f.
Apex
n/a
g.
Letter height
n/a
(b) 
In the event of conflict or inconsistency, specifications in § 51-170O(3), General provisions, shall apply.
(6) 
Conditions.