[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of Supervisors of the Township
of Connoquenessing 3-6-2013 by Ord. No. 86. Amendments noted where
applicable.]
The purposes of this chapter are as follows:
A.
To maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment of the Township.
B.
To enhance and promote pedestrian and traffic safety.
C.
To minimize the adverse effects of signage on nearby properties.
D.
To avoid uncontrolled proliferation of signs.
E.
To enable fair and consistent enforcement of these regulations.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
Any structure or part of a structure attached; or otherwise
mounted parallel, to a wall or other vertical part of the structure.
The entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed
of a single face enclosing the extreme limits of characters, lettering,
illustrations, ornamentation or other figures, together with any other
material, design or color forming an integral part of the display,
including the frame.
The members of the community as a whole or any particular
part of the community.
The roof slab or deck with its supporting members, not including
vertical supports.
The top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is
higher, but excluding any mansards, cupolas, pylons, chimneys or any
minor projections.
The upper and lower roof ridges are the horizontal lines
formed by the juncture of two sloping planes formed by the surfaces
of a roof.
A name, identification, description, emblem, display or device
which is affixed to, printed on, or represented directly or indirectly
upon a building, structure, or parcel of land; which is illuminated
or nonilluminated; visible or intended to be visible from any public
place; and, which directs or calls attention to a person, place, product,
institution, business, organization, activity or service. Signs shall
also include any permanently installed or situated merchandise, including
any banner, pennant, placard, statue, vehicle or temporary sign. Certain
categories of signs are defined as follows:
AWNING SIGNA sign with its copy on a shelter made of any nonrigid material, such as fabric or flexible plastic that is supported by or stretched over a frame and attached to an exterior wall of a building or other structure.
BANNER SIGNA sign with its copy on nonrigid material such as cloth, plastic, fabric or paper with no supporting framework.
BILLBOARD SIGNA sign for commercial, industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes, promoting products, or services conducted, sold or offered somewhere other than upon the same premises where the sign is located, and whose purpose is to sell or identify a product, service or activity. In the context of this definition, the word "premises" shall be interpreted as being a separate tract or parcel of land that has been or may be conveyed by deed or has otherwise been specified as a separate lot on an approved land development plan.
CANOPY SIGNA sign on a rigid, multisided structure attached to a building or on any other freestanding structure that may have a roof with support but no walls.
CHANGEABLE SIGNA sign that is designed so that its characters, letters, illustrations or other content can be changed, altered or rearranged without physically altering the permanent physical face or surface of the sign. This includes manual, electrical, electronic, or other variable message signs.
CONSTRUCTION SIGNA temporary sign identifying individuals or companies involved in design, construction, wrecking, financing or development work when placed upon the premises where that work is underway, but only for the duration of the work.
DIRECTIONAL/INFORMATIONAL SIGNAn on-premises sign for the convenience of the public giving directions, instructions, facility information or other assistance around a site, such as location of exits, entrances, parking lots, amenities, and housing units, to encourage proper circulation. It may contain the logo of an enterprise but no other advertising copy.
DIRECTORY SIGNA sign which displays the names and/or addresses of the establishments, housing units, amenities, or uses of a building or group of buildings.
FLASHING SIGNAny sign which has intermittent or changing lighting or illumination of a duration less than 30 seconds shall be deemed a flashing sign.
FREESTANDING SIGNThe general term for any sign which is permanently affixed to the ground and on a foundation. It is supported on a foundation by one or more upright poles or braces, and is not attached to a building or any other structure.
ILLUMINATED SIGNA sign illuminated in any manner by an artificial light source, whether internally or externally lit, including but not limited to neon signs and any sign which has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines illuminated by artificial lighting.
INFORMATIONAL SIGNPublic or private directional, street or traffic signs, address numbers, names of buildings, rooms, etc. and other signs of a similar nature.
MARQUEE SIGNAny sign attached to a covered structure projecting from and supported by a building with independent roof and drainage provisions and which is erected over a doorway or doorways as protection against the weather.
MONUMENT SIGNA freestanding sign with a base affixed to the ground, where the length of the base is at least two-thirds the horizontal length of the monument.
NONCONFORMING SIGNA sign that met all legal requirements when constructed but is not in compliance with current sign regulations.
ON-PREMISES SIGNSign, graphics or a display for commercial, industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes, promoting products, uses or services conducted, sold or offered upon the same premises where the sign is located, and whose purpose is to sell or identify a product, service or activity. In the context of this definition, the word "premises" shall be interpreted as being a separate tract or parcel of land that has been or may be conveyed by deed or has otherwise been specified as a separate lot on an approved land development plan.
PLAZA SIGNA one- or two-sided structure displaying smaller signs, each of equal size.
POLE SIGNA freestanding sign with a base supported from the ground by a pole or a similar support structure of narrow width.
POLITICAL SIGNA temporary sign larger than four square feet identifying, either singly or combined, a political candidate, slate of candidates, issue, or party. These signs are used or intended to be used for the display of any announcement, advertisement or notice of any individual candidate or slate of candidates for any public office or similar political purposes.
POLITICAL YARD SIGNA temporary political sign four square feet or smaller.
PORTABLE SIGNSign, graphic or display for commercial, industrial, institutional, service, entertainment or informational purposes which can be readily moved from place to place and which is not affixed to a building, to another permanent structure or to the ground.
PROJECTING SIGNA sign which is supported by an exterior wall of a building or other structure and which is constructed and displayed perpendicular to the face of the building or other structure so that both sides of the sign are visible.
REAL ESTATE SIGNA temporary sign which is used to offer for sale, lease or rent the premises upon which the sign is placed.
TEMPORARY SIGNA sign displayed for a fixed, terminable length of time. Temporary signs are intended to be removed after the temporary purpose has been served. Included are for sale, lease or rent signs, political signs, service signs, special-event signs, construction signs, directional signs to special or temporary events and signs of a similar nature.
WALL SIGNA sign painted on, or attached to, a wall or window of a building or other structure and which is mounted parallel to the surface so that only one side is visible to the public.
WARNING SIGNA sign containing no advertising material but which warns the public of the existence of danger.
A.
Erection, alteration, maintenance, and removal. Signs may be erected,
altered, maintained, used, moved or removed only when in compliance
with the provisions of this chapter, and any and all other applicable
ordinances or regulations of the Township.
B.
Permitting. No sign, or temporary sign, unless exempted by this chapter,
shall be constructed, erected, altered, moved or removed without first
receiving a permit for such activity. Repainting or changing the message
on a sign shall not, in and of itself, be considered a substantial
alteration.
A.
Permit applications. Applications for sign permits shall be submitted
to the Code Enforcement Officer on forms provided by the Township,
completed as required; at a minimum, they shall have attached the
following information, in either written or graphic form:
(1)
Location of the sign on the premises in relation to lot lines, buildings,
sidewalks, streets, public rights-of-way and street intersections
within 300 feet of the proposed sign.
(2)
Type of sign (e.g., freestanding, pole, monument, wall) and general
description of structural design and construction materials.
(3)
Drawing(s) of the proposed sign containing specifications indicating
height, perimeter, area, dimensions, type of lettering proposed, means
of support, method of illumination, and any other significant characteristics.
(4)
Any other information requested by the Code Enforcement Officer to
carry out the purpose and intent of this chapter.
(5)
The required sign permit fee as established by resolution of the
Supervisors. Permit fees will cover the cost for administering this
chapter for compliance with its purpose.
B.
Permit review and action. The Code Enforcement Officer shall review
the sign permit application and issue or deny the permit, in conformance
with the following standards:
(1)
Official date. The official date of submission shall be the day the
Code Enforcement Officer determines that the completed application,
with all required or necessary data, has been properly prepared and
submitted.
(2)
Time to decide. The Code Enforcement Officer shall determine whether
the proposed sign will or will not be in compliance with the requirements
of this chapter, and shall, within 30 days of the official date of
submission, issue or deny the sign permit.
(3)
Photograph. When the sign has been completed, the applicant shall
photograph the completed sign and forward the photograph to the Code
Enforcement Officer. The Code Enforcement Officer shall then inspect
the sign.
(4)
Inspection for compliance. The Code Enforcement Officer, or a designee,
shall perform a final inspection after installation of any approved
sign.
(5)
Discrepancies. Any discrepancies between any sign as approved and
the sign as constructed shall be identified in writing by the Code
Enforcement Officer and may result in the halt of construction and
correction of the discrepancy. If the discrepancy is not corrected
within 20 days after written notice, the sign may be ordered removed
by the Code Enforcement Officer.
(6)
Complaints. The Code Enforcement Officer shall investigate any complaints
of violations of these regulations and may revoke any permit if there
is any violation of these regulations or if there was any misrepresentation
of any material fact, in either the sign permit application or the
plans.
C.
Expiration of sign permit.
(1)
If the sign authorized by any sign permit has not been erected or
completed within 120 days from the date of issuance of that permit,
the sign permit shall be deemed expired.
(2)
An expired sign permit may be renewed within 30 days from the expiration
date for good cause shown and upon payment of a permit extension fee,
as established by resolution of the Supervisors.
D.
Revocation of a sign permit. The Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke
any sign permit if the sign, whether new or preexisting, is moved
or otherwise altered, either intentionally or by natural forces, in
a manner which causes the sign not to be in conformity with this chapter.
Signs must be properly maintained, properly painted and be kept free
from all hazards, including but not limited to faulty wiring, loose
fastenings, being in an unsafe condition or detrimental to public
health, safety or general welfare. In the event of a violation of
any of the foregoing provisions, the Code Enforcement Officer shall
give written notice specifying the violation to the current owner
of the sign and the current owner of the land upon which the sign
is erected to conform or to remove the sign. The sign shall be made
to conform to the permit requirements within 30 days from the date
of the notice, or, the Code Enforcement Officer shall revoke the sign
permit and the subject sign shall be removed by the owner of the sign
or the owner of the premises.
Sign permits shall not be required for the following:
A.
Name and address. Up to two signs indicating address, number and/or
name of occupants of the premises, that do not exceed two square feet
in area per side, and do not include any commercial advertising or
other identification.
B.
Decals. Decals affixed to windows or door glass panels, such as those
indicating membership in a business group or identifying credit cards
accepted at the establishment.
C.
Flags, emblems and insignia: flags, emblems and insignia of government
agencies, religious, charitable, public or nonprofit organizations.
These types of signs are exempt from permit requirements but are subject
to the following requirements:
D.
Private drive signs. On-premises private drive signs are limited
to one per driveway entrance, not exceeding two square feet in area,
with language limited to the words "private drive" and the addresses
of any residences using the private driveway.
E.
Public signs. Signs erected by government agencies or utilities,
including traffic, utility, safety, railroad crossing and identification
signs for public facilities and any signs erected by the Township
under direction of the Board of Supervisors.
F.
Security and warning signs. On-premises signs regulating the use
of the premises, such as "no trespassing,, "no hunting" and "no soliciting"
signs that do not exceed one sign two square feet in area for residential
property and one sign five square feet in area for commercial property.
These limitations shall not apply to the posting of conventional "no
trespassing" signs in accordance with state law.
[Amended 9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13]
G.
Temporary real estate signs. Display of these signs shall be limited
to one per property and six square feet in area for residential property
and 32 square feet for commercial property. These signs shall be removed
within 30 days of settlement or lease of the property.
H.
Garage or yard sale signs. Signs advertising garage sales or yard
sales are permitted, provided that no sign shall exceed four square
feet in area and is not erected more than four days prior to the event.
One yard sale sign shall be allowed on premises. All signs shall be
removed one day after the close of the garage or yard sale.
The following signs are expressly prohibited, unless otherwise
stated in these regulations:
A.
Animated and moving signs. A sign or other display with either kinetic
or illusionary motion powered by natural, manual, mechanical, electrical
or other means, including but not limited to flags having commercial
messages, and all pennants, banners, streamers, propellers, and discs,
as well as flashing signs, signs with illuminated elements that are
used to simulate the impression of motion, and searchlights.
B.
Flashing and message signs. Any signs that include lights or messages
which change flash, blink or turn on and off intermittently, but specifically
excluding time and temperature signs which display no other text or
images.
C.
Glaring signs. Signs with light sources or which reflect brightness
in a manner which constitutes a hazard or nuisance. This includes
signs with fluorescent text, graphics or background, as well as holographic
signs.
D.
Obstructive signs. A sign or other advertising devise erected or
maintained at any road intersection in a manner as to obstruct free
and clear vision of the intersection.
E.
Inflatable signs and other objects. Signs and other objects which
are inflated, including but not limited to, balloons. One bouquet
of balloons shall be allowed on premises that sell balloons. Balloons
shall also be permitted in temporary situations or on special occasions
at a residence.
F.
Posters and handbills. Any signs affixed to any structures, trees
or other natural vegetation, rocks or poles.
G.
Simulated traffic signs and obstructions. Any sign which may be confused
with, or obstruct the view of, any authorized traffic sign or signal,
obstruct the sight-distance triangle at any road intersection or extend
into the public right-of-way.
H.
Strings of light. Any devices including lights that outline property
lines, sales areas or any portion of a structure and are intended
to advertise or draw attention to a business or commercial activity,
except as follows:
I.
Sign emissions. No sign which emits smoke, visible vapors, particles,
sound or odor shall be permitted.
The regulations in this section specify the area and heights
of signs that are allowed within the Township and which require a
permit.
A.
Determination of gross sign area. The area of a sign shall include
all lettering, wording and accompanying designs and symbols, together
with the background, whether open or enclosed, on which they are displayed,
but not including any supporting framework and bracing which are incidental
to the display.
(1)
Where the sign consists of individual letters or symbols attached
to or painted on a surface, building wall or window, the area shall
be considered to be that of the single smallest rectangle or other
regular geometric shape which encompasses all of the letters and symbols,
including the sign background and frame.
(2)
In computing square-foot area of a double-faced sign, only one side
shall be considered, provided both faces are identical in size; otherwise,
the larger side shall be considered. If the interior angle formed
by the faces of the multifaced sign is greater than 45°, then
all sides of the sign shall be considered in calculating the sign
area.
B.
Determination of sign height. The height of all signs shall be determined
as follows:
(1)
Unless otherwise specified herein, the height of a sign erected within
30 feet of a road right-of-way line shall be measured from the grade
level of the nearest edge of the travel way of the adjacent road to
the top of the sign or sign structure.
(2)
The height of all signs erected beyond 30 feet from a road right-of-way
line shall be measured from the natural grade level immediately adjacent
to where the sign is erected to the top of the sign or sign structure.
All signs erected within the Township shall conform to the applicable
building codes and to the following general requirements:
A.
Sign materials and construction. All signs shall be constructed of
durable materials, designed to withstand expected wind pressures and
erected so as not to sustain damage and deterioration from the elements.
No sign shall contain iridescent or "day-glo" paint.
B.
Maintenance. Every sign, including those specifically exempt from
permit and permit fees, shall be maintained in good repair and in
a safe, clean and attractive condition.
C.
Design. No sign or part of a sign shall contain or consist of banners,
posters, pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners or other similar moving,
fluttering or revolving devices. None of these devices, nor any strings
of lights, shall be used for the purpose of advertising or getting
attention when not part of a sign, except as follows:
(1)
In the case of a grand opening or similar event, banners, posters,
pennants, ribbons, streamers, spinners or other similar moving, fluttering
or revolving devices may be used for a period of seven consecutive
days upon application for a special sign permit.
(2)
All temporary (seven consecutive days) signs shall be affixed at
all four corners or attached to a stable, flat, surface.
(3)
Banners spanning municipal roadways are prohibited. Banners spanning
state roadways require permission from the Pennsylvania Department
of Transportation and issuance of a highway occupancy permit.
D.
Sign illumination. Illuminated signs or sign lighting devices shall
employ only lights emitting a light of constant intensity, and no
sign shall be illuminated by or contain flashing, intermittent rotating
or moving light or lights. No sign or lighting device shall be placed
or directed to permit the beams and illumination to be directed or
beamed upon a public road, highway, sidewalk or adjacent premises
so as to cause a traffic hazard or nuisance.
E.
Street rights-of-way. No sign or advertising device, including projecting
signs, shall be located in or project over any road right-of-way nor
be located within the clear sight triangle of any intersection or
driveway based upon safe site distances as defined by Pa. Code Title
67, Chapter 441. Exceptions include public signs or signs erected
by a governmental agency.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Original § 8.6, Limitation on number
of signs, which immediately followed this subsection, was repealed
9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13.
F.
Compliance with Township ordinances. All signs shall be compliant with all applicable provisions of the Township ordinances, including but not limited to Chapter 81, Airport Ordinance, of the Code of the Township of Connoquenessing.
G.
Compliance with county, state and federal laws. All signs shall be
compliant with all applicable county, state, and federal laws and
regulations. Prior to submission of an application for a sign permit,
the applicant shall obtain and submit with the application, approvals
from any county, state or federal agency, including PennDOT and the
United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), when applicable.
Billboard signs include signs, graphics and other displays for
commercial, industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes,
products, uses, or services conducted, sold or offered elsewhere than
upon the same premises where the sign is located. Billboard signs
shall be permitted, provided all of the following requirements are
met:
A.
Location.
(1)
Billboard signs shall not be erected within 1,000 feet of any existing
residential dwelling, school, church or cemetery, said 1,000 feet
being measured along the radius of a circle from the centermost point
of the billboard structure extending in all directions.
(2)
Billboard signs shall maintain a separation distance between any
existing or proposed billboard sign of 2,640 feet (1/2 mile) as measured
along both sides of the same roadway frontage from the centermost
point of the billboard structure along a line extending from the centermost
point of the billboard sign, which is parallel to the center line
of the roadway to which the billboard is oriented. Billboard signs
in an adjacent municipality are subject to this separation requirement.
(3)
No billboard sign shall be located in or closer than 25 feet to any
public right-of-way.
(4)
No billboard sign shall be located closer than 20 feet from any property
line.
(5)
No billboard sign shall be erected in such a manner as to block the
view from the road or street, of any existing business identification
sign, residential or nonresidential structure or limit or reduce the
light and ventilation requirements.
(6)
No billboard sign shall be constructed within the clear sight triangle
of the public street or road on which it is situated and shall not
in any case obstruct or impede traffic safety.
(7)
No billboard sign shall be erected over any sidewalk or public right-of-way.
(8)
A billboard sign shall not be part of a roof or wall, nor shall they
be mounted on the roof, wall or other part of a building or any other
structure.
B.
Size and height.
(1)
A billboard sign shall have no more than two sign faces per sign,
which may be placed back to back or in a V-shaped configuration having
an interior angle of 90° or less.
(2)
A billboard sign shall have a maximum gross surface area of 200 square
feet per sign face.
(3)
A billboard sign shall have a maximum height of 45 feet.
C.
Construction methods. Billboard signs shall be constructed in accordance
with applicable provisions of the Uniform Construction Code,[1] as now or hereafter adopted, and shall meet all of the
following additional requirements:
(1)
A billboard sign shall have a maximum of one vertical support, being
a maximum of three feet in diameter or width and without additional
bracing or vertical supports.
(2)
A billboard sign face shall be independently supported and have vertical
supports of metal that are galvanized or constructed of approved corrosive-resistant,
noncombustible materials. Structures constructed with galvanized metal
shall be painted or otherwise coated.
(3)
The one vertical support shall be capable of enabling the entire
sign face to be able to withstand a minimum one-hundred-mile-per-hour
wind load. Structural design computations shall be made and certified
by a registered engineer and shall be submitted to the Township with
the application for permit.
(4)
The base shall be installed using a foundation and footings approved
by the Township Engineer for the type of construction proposed.
(5)
The entire base of the billboard sign shall be parallel to the sign
face and shall be permanently landscaped with suitable shrubbery and/or
bushes of minimum height of three feet placed in such manner as to
screen the foundation of the structure.
(6)
Landscaping shall be maintained by the billboard sign owner in an
attractive and healthy manner in accordance with accepted conservation
practices.
(7)
No bare cuts shall be permitted on a hillside.
(8)
All cuts or fills shall be permanently seeded or planted.
(9)
A billboard sign with display lighting shall be constructed so that
it does not produce glare upon adjoining properties and shall not
exceed a maximum of 1.5 footcandles of illumination at the property
boundary line. Lighting shall utilize down lighting that is directed
to the billboard sign.
(10)
No display or lighting shall cause distraction, confusion, nuisance,
or hazard to traffic, aircraft or other properties.
D.
Permits and approval.
(1)
Prior to submission of an application for a sign permit, the applicant
for a billboard sign shall obtain and submit with the application,
approvals from any county, state or federal agency or the United States
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), when applicable.
(2)
The issuance of a sign permit for a billboard sign which has been
granted approval shall be conditioned upon the approval of the Pennsylvania
Department of Transportation (PennDOT) for billboard signs along state
and federal highways. If the applicant fails to submit evidence of
the required approval by PennDOT within 30 days of the issuance of
the sign permit, the sign permit shall be revoked by the Township
Code Enforcement Officer, who shall provide written notice to the
applicant and PennDOT. The applicant may reapply for the required
sign permit, upon submission of evidence of PennDOT approval, without
payment of any additional sign permit fee, provided the application
is re-filed within six months.
E.
Liability insurance. The applicant for a sign permit to erect a billboard
sign shall provide a certificate of insurance for public liability
and property damage which indemnifies and holds the Township harmless.
The amount of insurance to be maintained shall be determined and adjusted
from time to time by the Township. The insurance certificate shall
contain a clause stating that the insurance shall not be canceled
or reduced without first giving 10 days' notice to the Township.
F.
Maintenance.
(1)
A billboard sign shall be entirely painted every three years, unless
constructed of an approved corrosive-resistant material.
(2)
Every five years, the owner of the billboard sign which was erected
following the adoption of this chapter shall have a structural inspection
made of the billboard sign by a qualified Pennsylvania Registered
Engineer and shall provide to the Township a certificate from the
engineer certifying that the billboard sign is structurally sound.
[Amended 9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13]
(3)
Billboard signs found to be in violation of this chapter shall be
brought into compliance or removed within 30 days upon proper notification
by the Township.
(4)
Billboard signs using removable paper or other materials shall be
maintained in such condition as to eliminate loose or frayed material
protruding or hanging from the sign. All paper and other waste materials
shall be removed from the site and disposed of properly whenever any
sign face is changed.
(5)
Landscaping shall be regularly maintained through the growing season.
On-premises signs include signs, graphics and displays for commercial,
industrial, institutional, service or entertainment purposes, products,
uses or services conducted, sold or offered on the same premises where
the sign is located. These signs are permitted, subject to the following:
A.
Number of signs allowed per lot. The number of freestanding signs
or displays allowed per lot or parcel of commercial property shall
be as follows:
(1)
For lots having up to 100 linear feet of frontage on any public or
private street, one sign not exceeding one square foot in area for
every two linear feet of lot frontage, up to a maximum of 25 square
feet in area.
(2)
For lots having 100 to 250 linear feet of frontage on any public
or private street, one sign not exceeding 50 square feet in area.
(4)
Limitation on number of signs. Any business shall be limited to two
on-premises freestanding signs advertising that business.
[Amended 9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13]
B.
Sign location. All freestanding signs or displays shall be erected
at least 10 feet from any property line or right-of-way, and shall
be located outside all clear sight triangles or a minimum of 10 feet
from the edge of the travel way, whichever is the greater distance.
C.
Sign separation. No freestanding on-premises sign shall be erected
within 250 feet of any other freestanding on-premises sign.
D.
Sign location on premises. No freestanding on-premises sign shall
be erected within 50 feet of any residences.
[Amended 9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13]
E.
Sign height. No portion of any freestanding on-premises sign or display
shall be more than 20 feet above the highest elevation of the natural
grade immediately adjacent to the sign.
F.
Sight hindrance. No freestanding sign or display shall be erected
so as to block or obstruct the sight line of automobiles exiting from
the premises.
Signs erected within the Township shall conform to the following
individual requirements, as well as the general requirements stated
in this chapter.
A.
Pole signs. Pole signs shall be allowed as freestanding signs subject to the following, except as provided in Subsection H(2) for gasoline stations:
[Amended 9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13]
(1)
The permitted area of a pole sign shall be one square foot per five
linear feet of lot frontage on which the sign or signs are to be erected,
up to a maximum of five square feet in area.
(2)
The top of a pole sign shall not exceed 15 feet in height and the
base of the sign face shall be at least seven feet above the ground.
B.
Monument signs. Monument signs shall be allowed as freestanding signs,
subject to the following:
C.
Portable signs. Portable signs will be allowed as freestanding on-premises
signs only under the following circumstances:
D.
Wall/window or marquee signs. Wall/window or marquee signs and displays
attached to individual buildings or units shall be allowed in addition
to the permitted freestanding signs and displays, and are subject
to the following:
(1)
The permitted area of wall/window or marquee signs shall be one square
foot for each five linear feet of building or unit front facade to
which it is attached, not to exceed 32 square feet in area.
(2)
The top of all wall/window or marquee signs shall be below the roof
line and at a height no greater than 20 feet above the ground immediately
adjacent to the sign.
(3)
All wall signs shall be installed flat against the wall of a building
and shall not extend from the wall more than 12 inches.
(4)
Theaters may erect one of the permitted wall or marquee signs with
changeable copy board to display the name(s) and time(s) of the current
motion picture or theatrical production.
E.
Projecting signs. Projecting signs and displays attached to individual
buildings or units shall be allowed in addition to the permitted freestanding
signs and displays, subject to the following:
(1)
The permitted area of projecting signs shall be one square foot for
each five linear feet of building or unit front facade to which it
is attached, not to exceed 32 square feet.
(2)
The base of all projecting signs shall be no less than eight feet
above the ground.
(3)
Projecting signs shall not be located or erected on the roof area
of any building, shall be located only on the building walls, and
may not project above the building roof line or roof ridge.
(4)
Projecting signs shall not project from the exterior wall of a building
more than four feet.
(5)
Projecting signs shall not project into any public or private street
right-of-way.
F.
Awning or canopy signs. Awning or canopy signs and displays attached
to individual buildings or units shall be allowed in addition to the
permitted freestanding signs and displays, subject to the following:
(1)
The permitted area of awning or canopy signs shall be one square
foot for each two linear feet of awning or canopy, up to a maximum
of 16 square feet.
(2)
No awning or canopy sign shall extend above the top of the awning
or canopy.
(3)
Multiple logos or insignias on an awning or canopy are prohibited.
G.
Directional signs. Directional signs giving directional assistance
for the convenience of the public, not exceeding four square feet
per side in area or located closer than five feet to any property
line, are permitted. Directional signs may be internally lit or illuminated
by white light only.
H.
Gasoline station signs. Automobile service and gasoline stations
shall comply with all applicable regulations within this subsection,
including the regulations for shopping centers (if applicable), and
the following additional regulations:
(1)
Changeable fuel price signs. Freestanding signs identifying the name
of the business may include changeable copy indicating the current
price of fuel dispensed on the premises.
I.
Sign plazas. Where large numbers of either temporary or permanent
directional or commercial advertising signs are justified, a sign
plaza may be established. In these cases, allowable sign area may
be consolidated and confined within a single frame or as a combination
of sign panels within a sign plaza. Sign plazas are subject to the
following:
(1)
Approval. Sign plazas shall be allowed only upon the approval of
the Board of Supervisors as part of a land development application
and shall be submitted to the Township Planning Commission for recommendations
prior to submission to the Board of Supervisors for action.
(a)
A site plan shall accompany an application for a sign-plaza
permit depicting adequate access, parking, drainage, size, shape,
color, lighting, landscaping and manner of display.
(b)
The plan should include the total allowable sign area for the
property, and the substituted area to be consolidated within the proposed
sign plaza.
J.
Home-occupation signs. On-premises identification signs for home
occupations shall not exceed two signs, 32 square feet in area per
side. Home-occupation signs shall contain only the name of the business
and/or business owner.
K.
Individual sign limitation. The number of marquee, wall/window, projecting,
or awning or canopy signs permitted on an individual building is determined
by the total exposed exterior wall surface square footage of the building
as follows:
[Amended 9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13]
A.
Temporary signs may be erected in all districts only after obtaining
a temporary sign permit, which shall cite the length of time the sign
may be displayed.
(1)
The permit application shall be submitted along with a deposit fee
as established by resolution of the Board of Supervisors.
(2)
Temporary signs must be removed within the time period specified
herein.
(3)
Upon applicant certification that the signs have been removed, the
deposit shall be returned.
B.
Special-event signs. On-premises signs announcing special events
including, but not limited to, auctions, grand openings, new management,
going-out-of-business sales and events by religious, charitable or
public service groups.
(1)
Any business, individual or organization may display a special event
sign. A maximum of two special-event signs may be displayed for up
to seven days prior to a special event.
(2)
Signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in area each and shall be removed
immediately following the event.
(3)
A special-event sign shall not be used to continuously advertise
the same event.
C.
Seasonal farm-products signs. Seasonal on-premises signs announcing
the availability of seasonal farm products.
(1)
The number of signs shall not exceed two and the total area of all
signs shall not exceed 32 square feet per side, nor shall any sign
exceed six feet in height from ground level.
(2)
Seasonal farm-product signs shall not be erected more than 15 days
in advance of the harvest of the produce in question, and shall be
removed within 30 days from the end of harvest.
D.
Construction signs. Construction signs announcing new buildings or
projects, erected after the commencement of construction. Each construction
site shall be limited to three construction signs not exceeding 20
square feet in area and feet in height from ground level which shall
be removed by the time the permanent, on-premises sign is erected
or a certificate of occupancy for the building is issued.
E.
Political signs. Political signs larger than four square feet announcing
political candidates seeking office, slates of candidates, political
parties, and/or political and public issues appearing on a ballot
shall be subject to the following requirements:
[Amended 9-4-2013 by Ord. No. 87-13]
(1)
No person shall post any sign of any kind whatsoever upon public
or private property without permission of the property owner.
(2)
Signs shall not be permitted on any utility poles, lighting poles
or other similar structures.
(3)
Political signs shall not be posted more than 30 days in advance
of the election to which they pertain and shall be removed within
five calendar days following the election for which they were posted.
(4)
Political signs shall not exceed 16 square feet per side in area
and shall not project higher than 10 feet from the base of the sign
or grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(5)
Signs advertising an individual candidate shall be placed at least
100 feet apart.
F.
Political yard signs. Political signs four square feet or smaller
than and announcing political candidates seeking office, slates of
candidates, political parties, and/or political and public issues
appearing on a ballot shall be subject to the following requirements:
(1)
No person shall post any sign of any kind whatsoever upon private
property without permission of the property owner.
(2)
Signs shall not be permitted on utility poles, light poles or similar
structures.
(3)
Political yard signs shall not be posted more than 30 days in advance
of the election to which they pertain and shall be removed within
five calendar days following the election for which they were posted.
(4)
Political yard signs shall not exceed four square feet per side in
area and shall not project higher than five feet from the base of
the sign or grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
Any sign lawfully existing or under construction before the
date of enactment of these sign regulations or upon any date on which
these regulations are amended, and any sign which is accessory to
a nonconforming use, shall be deemed a nonconforming sign.
A.
Modifications. Nonconforming signs shall not be enlarged, extended,
structurally reconstructed or altered in any manner, except that the
sign face (gross surface area portion of the sign) may be changed
as long as the new sign face is equal to or reduced in height, sign
area, and/or projection. A sign permit is not needed for a new sign
face, or a change in the advertising content appearing on the sign
face.
B.
Removal. Nonconforming signs may remain, provided they are maintained
in good repair, except for the following:
(1)
A nonconforming sign or the structure supporting the sign which is
damaged or destroyed to the extent of 50% or more shall not be altered,
replaced or reinstalled unless it is in conformance with these regulations.
If the damage or destruction is less than 50%, the sign must be under
repair within 60 days and all repairs must be completed within six
months. The sign shall not be enlarged in any manner.
(2)
A nonconforming sign or the structure supporting the sign shall be removed according to the provisions of Subsection B of these section. Removal is required if the sign and/or the structure supporting the sign is damaged or destroyed to the extent of 50% or more.
(3)
Any sign, display or device allowed in this chapter may contain (in
lieu of any other copy) lawful noncommercial messages that do not
direct attention to a business operated for profit or to a commodity
or service for sale. The sign, display or device must comply with
all other requirements of this chapter.
All standards and provisions of this chapter shall be enforced
by the Code Enforcement Officer.
A.
Violations and penalties. Any person who violates or permits a violation
of this chapter shall, upon conviction in a summary proceeding brought
before a Magisterial District Judge under the Pennsylvania Rules of
Criminal Procedure, be guilty of a summary offense and shall be punishable
by a fine of not more than $1,000, plus costs of prosecution. In default
of payment thereof, the defendant may be sentenced to imprisonment
for a term not exceeding 90 days. Each day or portion thereof that
such violation continues or is permitted to continue shall constitute
a separate offense, and each section of this chapter that is violated
shall also constitute a separate offense.[1]
B.
Equitable and other remedies. In addition to fines and penalties prescribed in Subsection A above, the Township may enforce this chapter by equitable, injunctive or other remedies of law, and shall recover from the violator(s) reasonable attorney's fees, court costs and other costs incurred by the Township in enforcing this chapter.
Unless otherwise specifically provided, references to "sign
area" or "sign size" shall be deemed to be per sign side.
