A.
Purpose. The purpose of this Article XI is to establish standards for the regulation of signs within Dalton Borough in order to safeguard the public interest and:
(1)
To protect property values within Dalton Borough;
(2)
To preserve the beauty and the unique character of Dalton Borough;
(3)
To promote and aid in the tourist industry of Dalton Borough;
(4)
To protect the general public from damage and injury which may be
caused by the faulty construction of signs;
(5)
To protect pedestrians and motorists of Dalton Borough from damage
or injury caused or partially attributable to the distractions and
obstructions caused by improperly situated signs;
(6)
To promote the public safety, welfare, convenience and enjoyment
of travel and the free flow of traffic within Dalton Borough;
(7)
To assure that signage is clear and provides the essential identity
or direction to facilities in the community; and
(8)
To enable the fair and consistent enforcement of the sign restrictions
throughout Dalton Borough.
B.
Applicability – effect. A sign may be erected, placed, established,
painted, created or maintained in the Borough only in conformance
with the standards, procedures, exceptions and other requirements
of this chapter. The effect of this chapter as more specifically set
forth herein is:
(1)
To establish a permit system to allow a variety of types of signs
in the various zones, subject to the standards and the permit procedures
of this chapter;
(2)
To allow certain signs that are small, unobtrusive and incidental
to the principal use of the respective lots on which they are located,
subject to the substantive requirements of this chapter, but without
a requirement for permits;
(3)
To provide for temporary signs without commercial messages in limited
circumstances in the public right-of-way; and
(4)
To prohibit all signs not expressly permitted by this chapter.
C.
Requirement of conformity. No sign for which a permit is issued after
the effective date of this chapter may be placed or maintained in
Dalton Borough except as provided herein. All signs maintained contrary
to the provisions of this chapter are declared to be nuisances and,
as such, may be abated as provided by law.
Words and phrases used in this article shall have the meanings set forth in this section. Words and phrases not defined in this section but defined in Article III shall be given the meanings set forth in said article. Principles for computing sign area and sign height are contained in this section. All other words and phrases shall be given their common, ordinary meaning, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. Section headings or captions are for reference purposes only and shall not be used in the interpretation of this chapter.
A sign which conveys a commercial or noncommercial message
unrelated to the activity conducted on the lot where the sign is located
or a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, service,
entertainment or attraction sold, offered or existing elsewhere than
on the same lot where the sign is located. A structure intended to
support or contain such a sign shall also be considered an off-premises
advertising sign.
The movement or the optical illusion of movement of any part
of the sign structure, design or pictorial segment, including the
movement of any illumination or the flashing or varying of light intensity;
the automatic changing of all or any part of the facing of a sign;
the movement of a sign set in motion by the atmosphere. Time-and-temperature
devices shall be considered animated signs.
A person or entity who applies for a sign permit in accordance
with the provisions of this chapter.
In the case of individual letters used as a sign, the area
is 90% of the area enclosed within the smallest regular geometric
figure needed to completely encompass all letters, insignias or symbols,
except as otherwise provided herein. For signs other than individual
letters, words, insignias or symbols, the area is the total area of
the facing or the total area within the outer edge of any existing
border of the sign.
See "changeable panel sign."
Any sign located on or architecturally associated with the
exterior face of an automated teller machine.
Signs which are placed on or integrated into fabric or other
material canopies which are mounted on the exterior of a building.
Awning Sign
|
Any sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is
permanently mounted to a pole or building by a permanent frame at
one or more edges with no enclosing framework. National flags, state
or municipal flags of any institution or business shall not be considered
banners.
Banner Sign
|
A type of off-premises advertising sign which conveys a commercial
or noncommercial message unrelated to the activity conducted on the
lot where the sign is located, or a sign which directs attention to
a business, commodity, service, entertainment or attraction sold,
offered or existing elsewhere than on the same lot where the sign
is located. A structure intended to support or contain such a sign
shall also be considered a billboard.
For the purposes of this Article XI, "business" shall mean any approved nonresidential use, including commercial, manufacturing and industrial enterprises; public buildings and uses such as public schools, parks, civic centers, municipal buildings; and semipublic buildings and uses, such as churches, firehouses, ambulance buildings, private schools, and libraries.
The name by which a business is commonly recognized and used
by the applicant. The applicant shall provide stationary or other
supporting documents illustrating the use of the business name or
verification of the official business license or tax name. Slogans
or product information shall not be considered as the business name.
A three-dimensional structure which includes a frame, borders
and sign panel face and may include internal lighting upon which the
sign letters and logos are placed or etched and which is architecturally
integrated with the building.
Any sign that is a part of or attached to an awning, canopy
or other fabric, plastic or structural protective cover over a door,
entrance, window or outdoor service area. A marquee is not a canopy.
Canopy Sign on Freestanding Canopy
|
A sign designed to allow its informational content to be
changed or altered.
Changeable Panel Sign
|
Any sign wording, logo or other representations that, directly
or indirectly, names, advertises or calls attention to a business,
product, service or other commercial activity.
The area of sign face (which is also the sign area of a wall
sign or other sign with only one face) shall be computed by means
of the smallest square, circle, rectangle, triangle, or combination
thereof, that will encompass the extreme limits of the writing, representation,
emblem or other display, together with any material or color forming
an integral part of the background of the display or used to differentiate
the sign from the backdrop or structure against which it is placed,
but not including any supporting framework, bracing or decorative
fence or wall when such fence or wall otherwise meets zoning ordinance
regulations and is clearly incidental to the display itself.
The sign area for a sign with more than one face shall be
computed by adding together the area of all sign faces visible from
any one point. When two identical sign faces are placed back to back,
so that both faces cannot be viewed from any point at the same time,
and when such sign faces are part of the same sign structure and are
not more than 42 inches apart, the sign area shall be computed by
the measurement of one of the faces.
The height of a sign shall be computed as the distance from
the base of the sign at normal grade to the top of the highest attached
component of the sign. Normal grade shall be construed to be the lower
of: (1) existing grade prior to construction; or (2) the newly established
grade after construction, exclusive of any filling, berming, mounding
or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the sign. In cases
in which the normal grade cannot reasonably be determined, sign height
shall be computed on the assumption that the elevation of the normal
grade at the base of the sign is equal to the elevation of the nearest
point of the crown of a public street or the grade of the land at
the principal entrance to the principal structure on the zone lot,
whichever is lower.
A temporary sign identifying an architect, contractor, subcontractor,
and/or material supplier participating in construction on the property
on which the sign is located.
The temporary signs which identify the contractor or subcontractor
engaged in the construction, reconstruction or repair of a building
or buildings on a lot or parcel or property.
A temporary sign used to identify an approved future development.
A sign which provides a listing of the names of businesses,
activities, addresses, locations, uses or places within a building
or complex of buildings for the purposes of giving directions, instruction
or facility information and which may contain the name and logo of
an establishment but no advertising copy.
Directory Sign
|
A sign with two faces, essentially back to back.
Any fabric, banner or bunting containing distinctive colors,
patterns or symbols, used as a symbol of a government, political subdivision,
or other entity, which is mounted on a pole, cable or rope at one
end.
A sign supported permanently upon the ground by poles or
braces and that is not attached to any building.
Common Freestanding Sign Types
|
Any temporary or permanent sign erected and maintained by
the Borough, county, state or federal government for traffic direction
or for designation of or any school, hospital, historical site, or
public service, property or facility.
The introduction, promotion or announcement of a new business,
store, shopping center or office, or the announcement, introduction
or promotion of an established business changing ownership. A business
qualifies for a grand opening sign when it has been closed to the
public for a period of 30 days.
A freestanding sign that is architecturally integrated with
the building with individually mounted letters and/or logos only.
This sign shall be built with continuous background surface built
from the ground up.
The vertical distance measured from the highest point of
the sign, excluding decorative embellishments, to the grade of the
adjacent street or the surface grade beneath the sign, whichever is
less.
Any sign erected without first obtaining an approved sign
permit, other than nonconforming signs, and which does not meet the
requirements of this chapter.
A sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally
or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign.
A sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary
to the use of the zone lot on which it is located, such as "no parking,"
"entrance," "loading only," "telephone," and other similar directives.
No sign with a commercial message legible from a position off the
zone lot on which the sign is located shall be considered incidental.
Incidental Sign
|
A source of external illumination located away from the sign,
but which is itself not visible to persons viewing the sign from any
street, sidewalk or adjacent property.
A cut-out or etched letter or logo which is individually
placed on a landscape, screen wall, building wall or ground sign.
A source of illumination entirely within the sign which makes
the contents of the sign visible at night by means of the light being
transmitted through a translucent material but wherein the source
of illumination is not visible.
A source of illumination entirely within an individual letter,
cabinet or structure, which makes the sign visible at night by means
of lighting the background upon which the individual letter is mounted.
The letters are opaque and thus are silhouetted against the background.
The source of illumination is not visible.
A graphic symbol representing an activity, use or business.
Permitted logos shall be registered trademarks or symbols commonly
used by the applicant and may include graphic designs in addition
to lettering. The applicant shall provide stationary or other supporting
documents illustrating the use of the logo.
The replacing or repairing of a part or portion of a sign
necessitated by ordinary wear, tear or damage beyond the control of
the owner or the reprinting of existing copy.
Any permanent roof-like structure projecting beyond a building
or extending along and projecting beyond the wall of the building,
generally designed and constructed to provide protection from the
weather.
A freestanding cabinet or panel sign mounted on or within
a base (above grade), which is detached from any building.
A commercial development in which there exists two or more
separate commercial activities, in which there are appurtenant shared
facilities (such as parking or pedestrian mall), and which is designed
to provide a single area in which the public can obtain varied products
and services. Distinguishing characteristics of a multiple-tenant
commercial building may, but need not, include common ownership of
the real property upon which the center is located, common-wall construction,
and multiple-occupant commercial use of a single structure.
A small sign which identifies a resident's or home's
name and address or the name of a farm, ranch or commercial stable.
Such signs may be shingle-, building wall- or archway-mounted signs.
Any sign which is not allowed under this chapter, but which,
when first constructed before this chapter was in effect and for which
a sign permit was issued, was legally allowed by the Borough.
A person recorded as such on official records. For the purpose
of this chapter, the owner of property on which a sign is located
is presumed to be the owner of the sign unless facts to the contrary
are officially recorded or otherwise brought to the attention of the
Zoning Officer.
A two-dimensional visual background behind the sign letters
and logos, which is visually separated from the mounting upon which
the sign letters and logos are placed by the presence of a border,
different colors, different materials, or other technique of visual
framing around the letters or logos.
That portion of a building exterior wall projecting above
the plate line of the building.
Any lightweight plastic, fabric or other material, whether
or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire
or string, usually in series, designed to move in the wind.
Any sign which is intended to be and is constructed as to
be in lasting and enduring condition, remaining unchanged in character,
condition (beyond normal wear) and position, and in a permanent manner
affixed to the ground, wall or building, provided the sign is listed
as a permanent sign in the ordinance.
The point at which any part of the main roof structure first
touches or bears upon an external wall.
A temporary sign which supports candidates for office or
urges action on any other matter on the ballot of primary, general
and special elections.
Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other
permanent structure or a sign designed to be transported, including,
but not limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels,
signs converted to A- or T-frames, menu and sandwich board signs,
balloons used as signs, umbrellas used for advertising and signs attached
to or painted on vehicles parked and visible from the public right-of-way,
unless said vehicle is used in the normal day-to-day operations of
the business.
Portable Sign
|
Any sign affixed to a building wall in such a manner that
its leading edge extends more than six inches beyond the surface of
such building or wall.
Projecting Sign
|
Unless otherwise expressly provided, "public property" means
any and all real or personal property over which the Borough or other
governmental entity has or may exercise control, whether or not the
government owns the property in fee, including sidewalks, rights-of-ways
and improved or unimproved land of any kind and all property appurtenant
to it.
A temporary sign advertising the real estate upon which the
sign is located as being for rent, lease or sale.
No commercial sign shall be erected so as to project beyond
a property line, over a public sidewalk or over or within a public
right-of-way.
The uppermost line of the roof of a building or, in the case
of an extended facade or parapet, the uppermost point of said facade
or parapet.
Any sign mounted on the main roof portion of a building or
on the topmost edge of a parapet wall of a building and which is wholly
or partially supported by such building. Signs mounted on mansard
facades or pent eaves and architectural projections such as canopies
or marquees shall not be considered to be roof signs. See the following
illustration for example of roof signs, and comparison of differences
between roof and fascia signs.
Comparison – Roof and Fascia Signs
|
A sign suspended from a roof overhang of a covered porch,
walkway or horizontal plane surface which identifies the tenant of
the adjoining space.
Any device for visual communication which is used or is intended
to attract the attention of the public with a purpose of identifying,
when the display of the device is visible beyond the boundaries of
the public or private property upon which the display is made. The
term "sign" shall not include any flag or badge or insignia of the
United States, State of Pennsylvania, Lackawanna County, Dalton Borough,
or official historic plaques of any governmental jurisdiction or agency.
Any surface (excluding windows) of a building within 25°
vertical.
A promotional event, such as, but not limited to, grand openings,
bazaars, street fairs, shows, exhibitions, sporting events, runs,
bicycling events, and block parties. This does not include sidewalk
sales occurring on private property where merchandise normally sold
indoors is transferred from indoors to outdoors for sale.
Any sign, banner, pennant or valance of advertising display
constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, plastic, wallboard
or other like materials, with or without frames; or any sign not permanently
attached to the ground, wall or building.
Signs used at driveways to improve public safety and to enhance
public access to the site from public streets, which provides information
to assist the operators of vehicles in the flow of traffic. Such signs
may use names, logos or symbols of buildings, businesses, activities,
uses or places as a means of direction.
Any sign attached parallel to, but within six inches of,
a wall; painted on the wall surface of; or erected and confined within
the limits of an outside wall of any building or structure, which
is supported by such wall or building; and which displays only one
sign surface.
Wall Signs
|
Any poster, cut-out letters, painted text or graphics, or
other text or visual presentation affixed to or placed behind a window
pane, which is intended to be read from the exterior of the building.
Sign Comparison
|
The procedures included in this § 400-68 shall apply to all signs requiring permits. In addition to the information required by this section, a master sign plan shall be prepared for approval by the Borough in accord with § 400-28.
A.
Requirement of permit. A sign permit shall be required before the
erection, re-erection, construction, alteration, placing or installation
of all signs regulated by this chapter. However, a permit shall not
be required for the following signs and actions; provided, however,
that such signs shall be subject to any and all applicable provisions
of this chapter.
(2)
Real estate, temporary construction and contractor signs.
B.
Permit application. Applications for sign permits shall be submitted
to the Zoning Officer and shall, at a minimum, contain or have attached
thereto the information listed in this section. The applicant shall
pay the required application fee at the time when the sign application
is filed. Two copies of plans and specifications shall be submitted
with each application. One copy shall be returned to the applicant
at the time the permit is granted. The plans shall include complete
details about the size of the sign, the method of attachment or support,
locations and materials to be used, and the name, address and profession
of the person designing the plans and specifications. If the Zoning
Officer determines that the sign will be subject to excessive stresses,
additional data shall be required, showing that supporting surfaces
and other members of an existing building to which the sign is to
be attached are in good condition and are adequately strong to support
the load, including the proposed sign.
(1)
The names, addresses and telephone numbers of the applicant, the
owner of the property on which the sign is to be erected or affixed,
the owner of the sign, and the person to be erecting or affixing the
sign.
(2)
The location of the building, structure or zoning lot on which the
sign is to be erected or affixed.
(3)
A sketch plan of the property involved, showing accurate placement
thereon of the proposed sign.
(4)
Two blueprints or ink drawings of the plans and specifications of
the sign to be erected or affixed and method of construction and attachment
to the building or in the ground. Such plans and specifications shall
include details of dimensions, color, materials and weight.
(5)
If required by the Zoning Officer, a copy of stress sheets and calculations
prepared by or approved by a registered structural engineer, licensed
by the State of Pennsylvania, showing that the sign is designed for
dead load and wind pressure in any direction in the amount required
by this and all other applicable ordinances of the Borough.
(6)
The written consent of the owner of the building, structure or property
on which the sign is to be erected or affixed.
(7)
Such other information as the Zoning Officer may require to determine
full compliance with this and other applicable ordinances of the Borough.
C.
Issuance of permits. Upon the filing of an application for a sign
permit, the Zoning Officer shall examine the plans, specifications
and other submitted data and the premises upon which the sign is proposed
to be erected or affixed. If it appears that the proposed sign is
in compliance with all the requirements of this chapter and other
applicable ordinances of the Borough and if the appropriate permit
fee has been paid, the Zoning Officer shall issue a permit for the
proposed sign.
D.
Expiration. If the work authorized under a sign permit has not been
completed within 90 days after the date of issuance, the permit shall
become null and void, unless otherwise extended by the Zoning Officer
for a single additional ninety-day period.
E.
Permit fees. Each sign required by this chapter requiring a sign
permit shall pay a fee as established pursuant to a resolution duly
adopted by the Borough Council.
A.
Prohibited signs. All signs not expressly permitted or exempted under
this chapter from regulation are prohibited in the Borough. Such prohibited
signs include, but are not limited to, the following:
(1)
A-frame or sandwich board signs. A-frame or sandwich board and sidewalk or curb signs, except as a temporary sign as provided for in § 400-70 of this chapter.
(3)
Animated, moving and flashing signs. Signs which flash, revolve,
rotate, swing, undulate or move by any means or otherwise attract
attention through the movement or flashing of parts, including automatic,
electronically controlled copy changes, or through the impression
of movement or flashing, except for time-and-temperature indicators
whose movement is either digital or analog and flags as permitted
by this chapter.
(4)
Portable and wheeled signs. Portable and wheeled signs, except as a temporary sign, as provided for in § 400-70 of this chapter.
(5)
Signs on parked vehicles. Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles
and/or trailers which are parked on a public right-of-way, public
property or private property, so as to be visible from a public right-of-way,
where the apparent purpose is to advertise a product or direct people
to a business, organization or activity.
(6)
Signs on utility poles or trees. Signs which are attached or otherwise
affixed to utility poles or trees or other vegetation.
(7)
Signs which imitate traffic control devices. Signs which imitate,
interfere with, obstruct the view of, or can be confused with any
authorized traffic control sign, signal or other device.
(8)
Emissions. No sign shall be permitted to emit any sound, odor or
visible matter such as smoke.
B.
Signs requiring no permits. The following signs are hereby exempt
from the zoning permit provisions of this chapter, excepting for such
instances where any sign listed herein is found to be unsafe or unlawful
as provided for in other sections of this chapter.
(1)
Civic and religious. Civic and religious organization signs indicating
only the organization insignia, name, meeting place and time. Such
signs shall not exceed two square feet for each exposed surface area.
(2)
Directional or instructional signs. Signs, not exceeding four feet
in aggregate gross surface area, which provide direction or instruction
to guide persons to facilities intended to serve the public, providing
that such signs contain no advertising of any kind. Such signs include
those identifying restrooms, public telephones, public walkways, affiliation
with motor clubs, acceptance of designated credit cards, and other
similar signs providing direction or instruction to persons using
a facility, but not including those signs accessory to parking areas.
Advertising material of any kind is strictly prohibited on directional
and instructional signs.
(3)
Noncommercial signs. Flags, emblems and insignia of political, professional,
religious, educational or fraternal organizations, providing that
such flags, emblems and insignia are displayed for noncommercial purpose.
(4)
Governmental signs. Governmental signs for control of traffic and
other regulatory purposes, street signs, warning signs, railroad crossing
signs, and signs of public service companies indicating danger and
aids to services or safety, which are erected by or at the order of
a public officer or employee in the performance of the officer's
or employee's duties.
(5)
Holiday decorations. Signs or other materials temporarily displayed
on traditionally accepted civic, patriotic or religious holidays,
related to observance of the civic, patriotic or religious holiday.
(6)
Interior signs. Signs which are fully located within the interior
of any building or stadium, or within an enclosed lobby or court of
any building, and signs located within the inner or outer lobby court
or entrance of any theater.
(7)
Memorial signs. Memorial plaques or tablets, grave markers, statutory
or other remembrances of persons or events that are noncommercial
in nature.
(8)
Name and address plates. Wall signs, one per street frontage and
not exceeding 1 1/2 square feet in surface area, indicating the
name of the occupant, the address of the premises, and identification
of any legal business or operation which may exist at the premises.
(9)
"No trespassing," "no hunting," "no fishing," "no dumping," "no parking,"
"no towing," and other similar signs. "No trespassing," "no hunting,"
"no fishing," "no dumping," "no parking," "no towing," and other similar
signs (as set forth in Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and
its regulations and as set forth in Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Crimes
Code and its regulations) not exceeding two square feet in gross surface
area for each exposed face nor exceeding an aggregate gross surface
area of four square feet.
(10)
Parking lot directional and instructional signs.
(a)
Directional signs. Signs designating parking area entrances
and exits, limited to one sign for each entrance and/or exit and not
exceeding four square feet in gross surface area for each exposed
face. Parking lot directional signs shall not project higher than
five feet in height, as measured from the established grade of the
parking area to which such signs are accessory.
(b)
Instructional signs. Signs designating the conditions of use
or identity of parking areas and not exceeding eight square feet in
gross surface area for each exposed face nor exceeding an aggregate
gross surface area of 16 square feet. Parking lot instructional signs
shall not project higher than 10 feet for wall signs and seven feet
for ground signs, as measured from the established grade of the parking
area(s) to which such signs are accessory.
(11)
Patron advertising signs. Signs erected on the perimeter of
an organization-sponsored youth athletic field for the sole purpose
of sponsoring or contributing to the organized youth athletic sport.
Signs erected for this purpose shall be one-sided with a maximum of
32 square feet of gross aggregate surface area. Sponsors advertising
on score boards may not exceed 25% of the surface area of the score
board.
(12)
Plaques. Plaques, nameplates or memorial signs, directly attached
or affixed to the exterior walls of a building, not exceeding four
square feet in aggregate gross surface area.
(13)
Public notices. Official notices posted by public officers or
employees in the performance of the officer's or employee's
duties.
(14)
Government signs. Signs required by governmental bodies or specifically
authorized for a public purpose by any law, statute or ordinance.
Such signs may be of any type, number, area, height, location or illumination
as required by law, statute or ordinance.
(15)
Signs on vehicles. Signs placed on or affixed to vehicles and/or
trailers where the sign is incidental to the primary use of the vehicle
or trailer. However, this is not in any way intended to permit signs
placed on or affixed to vehicles and/or trailers which are parked
on a public right-of-way, public property or private property so as
to be visible from a public right-of-way where the apparent purpose
is to advertise a product or direct people to a business or activity
located on the same or other property.
(16)
Symbols or insignia. Religious symbols, commemorative plaques
of recognized historical agencies, or identification emblems of religious
orders or historical agencies not exceeding two square feet in gross
surface area for each exposed face not exceeding four square feet
in aggregate gross surface area.
(17)
Vending machine signs. Permanent, nonflashing signs on vending
machines, gasoline pumps, ice or milk containers, or other similar
machines indicating only the contents of such devices, the pricing
of the contents contained within, directional or instructional information
as to use, and other similar information as to the use, and other
similar information not exceeding four square feet in gross surface
area for each exposed face, not exceeding an aggregate gross surface
area of eight square feet on each machine.
(18)
Warning signs. Signs warning the public of the existence of
danger, but containing no advertising material, to be removed within
three days upon the subsidence of danger. Such warning signs may be
of any type, number, area, height, location or illumination as deemed
necessary to warn the public of the existence of danger.
(19)
Tourist signs. Tourist-orientation directional signs when erected
in accord with a permit issued by PennDOT.
C.
Construction requirements. All signs permitted by this chapter shall be constructed in accord with the National Electrical Code and the Dalton Borough Building Code and the provisions of this § 400-69C.
(1)
Obstruction to exit. No sign shall be erected, constructed or maintained
so as to obstruct any fire escape, required exit, window, door opening
or wall opening intended as a means of ingress or egress.
(2)
Obstruction to ventilation. No sign shall be erected, constructed,
or maintained so as to interfere with any opening required for ventilation.
(3)
Clearance from electrical power lines and communication lines. All
signs shall be located in such a way that they maintain horizontal
and vertical clearance of all electrical power lines and communication
lines in accordance with the applicable provisions of the National
Electrical Code. However, in no instance shall a sign be erected or
constructed within eight feet of any electrical power line, conductor
or service drop, or any communication line, conductor or service drop.
(4)
Clearance from surface and underground facilities. All signs and
supporting structures shall maintain clearance and noninterference
with all surface and underground facilities and conduits for water,
sewage, gas, electricity or communications equipment or lines. In
addition, the placement of all signs and their supporting structures
shall not interfere with natural or artificial drainage or surface
or underground water.
(5)
No obstruction to any existing warning or instructional sign. No
sign shall be erected, constructed or maintained so as to interfere
with any existing warning or instructional sign.
(6)
Traffic hazards. No sign shall be erected in such a way as to interfere
with or to confuse traffic, to present any traffic hazard, or to obstruct
the vision of motorists, and all signs shall comply with the clear
sight triangle requirements of this chapter.
(7)
Public right-of-way. No sign may be erected or maintained in the
public right-of-way unless an encroachment permit has first been obtained
for the sign.
D.
Maintenance. Signs shall be constructed of durable materials, maintained in good condition and not allowed to become dilapidated. If the Zoning Officer has determined that a sign is not secure, safe, in good state of repair, or otherwise not in compliance with this Article XI, the Zoning Officer shall give written notice of this fact to the owner or other person responsible for the maintenance of the sign, requiring the sign to be corrected or repaired within a specific period of time, which period shall be determined by the Zoning Officer in each case based upon the particular circumstances and whether it imposes a hazard to public safety or health or otherwise causes or creates a dangerous or hazardous condition or situation. If the defect in or condition of the sign is not corrected or repaired within the time period allowed by the Zoning Officer, the Zoning Officer shall revoke the permit to maintain the sign and, if it is not then immediately removed, to remove the sign at the expense of the owner and keep possession of it until the owner pays the cost of removal.
E.
Illumination. All signs permitted by this chapter may be illuminated in accord with the provisions of this § 400-69E.
(1)
Type of illumination. Illumination may be by internal, internal indirect
or by indirect means.
(3)
Glare. All signs shall be so designed, located, shielded and directed
so as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light from artificial
illumination upon adjacent publicly dedicated roadways and surrounding
property.
(4)
Illumination of buildings, structures and areas.
(a)
The use of unshielded lighting, including incandescent light
bulbs hung or strung on poles, wires or any other type of support
to illuminate buildings, structures, outdoor sales areas, or outdoor
storage area is prohibited except during the month of December for
areas in which Christmas trees are offered for sale and on a temporary
basis for areas in which carnivals, fairs or other similar activities
are held;
(b)
A building or other structure may be illuminated, but all lighting
used for this purpose must be designated, located, shielded and directed
in such a manner that the light source is fixed and not directly visible
from any adjacent publicly dedicated roadway and surrounding property.
F.
Signs on roof. No sign attached to a building shall be placed on
nor shall extend above any part of the building roof except in C-2
and M-1 Districts, where signs on roofs shall be permitted, provided
the sign does not extend above the highest point of the roof on which
it is placed.
G.
Awning, canopy and marquee signs. Awning, canopy and marquee signs
shall be permitted for any permitted nonresidential use in accord
with the following:
(1)
Area. The gross surface area of an awning, canopy or marquee sign
shall not exceed 16 square feet, but shall be limited to not more
than 50% of the gross surface area of the face of the awning, canopy
or marquee to which such sign is affixed.
(2)
Letters' attachment. Letters shall not exceed 10 inches in height.
Any awning, canopy or marquee sign must be painted on or attached
flat against the surface and shall not project higher than the top
of the awning, canopy or marquee to which such sign is to be affixed.
(3)
Clearance. There shall be a minimum clearance of seven feet from
the sidewalk to the lowest part of the framework or fixed portion
of the awning, except that the bottom of the valance of the awning's
canvas or other covering shall have a minimum clearance of six feet
nine inches above the sidewalk.
(4)
Illumination. Only the face area of the letters or logos may be illuminated,
and all illumination must be internal behind the surface of the awning,
canopy or marquee.
(5)
Awning valance. If sign letters or logos are placed on the awning
valance, no letters or logos may be placed elsewhere on the awning.
H.
Changeable panel signs. One changeable panel sign board may be erected
on a lot containing one or more commercial, manufacturing, industrial,
public or semipublic use, referred to as "business" in this section,
subject to the following:
(1)
Type. The changeable panel sign shall be a ground sign or may be
attached to the same support of the permitted business identification
ground sign.
(2)
Number. One changeable panel sign may be erected on the business
parcel, identifying special, unique, limited activities, services,
products or sale of limited duration occurring on the premises on
which the changeable panel sign is located.
(3)
Area. The gross surface area of a changeable panel sign shall not
exceed 10 square feet for each exposed face.
(4)
Location. A changeable panel sign shall maintain side and rear yard
setbacks and shall not extend within 15 feet of any point of vehicular
access to a public roadway.
(5)
Height. If the changeable panel sign is separate from the main freestanding
sign, the changeable panel sign may not project higher than 10 feet,
as measured from the base of the sign or grade of the nearest adjacent
roadway, whichever is higher. The changeable panel sign shall be separated
by a minimum of 12 inches from the main ground pole sign.
(6)
Fuel prices. Establishments engaged in the retail sale of fuel may
also erect one additional changeable panel sign on the same frame
as the main business identification sign to list fuel prices, and
said sign shall not exceed six square feet for each exposed face.
I.
Sign faces. All signs may be multifaced.
J.
Window signs. Window signs for commercial, manufacturing, industrial,
public and semipublic uses, referred to as "business" in this section,
shall be permitted, subject to the following:
(1)
Location. Signs on or inside the windows of a business are permitted,
but no signs are permitted in unglazed openings, and any interior
sign placed within three feet of the window pane shall be considered
a window sign.
(2)
Area. No more than 25% of any window pane that is more than three
feet in any dimension may be used for such signs. The area of any
business identification sign shall be deducted from the total sign
area allowed for the use on the property, and the total of all window
signs shall not exceed 50% of the total sign area allowed for the
entire business use.
(3)
Sign copy. Sign copy shall be limited to business identification
and a graphic symbol, or any combination thereof, or signs advertising
products or services available on the premises.
(4)
Illumination. Window signs may be internally illuminated.
K.
Freestanding sign landscaping. All freestanding business and residential
identification signs shall be placed in a landscaped area of not less
than four square feet of landscaping for one square foot of sign area,
but in no case less than 120 square feet.
L.
Sign design. Signs shall be architecturally integrated with the design
of the building and landscaping for the property and other signs on
the property.
M.
Flags. Flags shall be permitted for commercial, manufacturing, industrial,
public and semipublic uses, referred to as "business" in this section,
subject to the following:
(1)
Business identification. The flag shall identify the business.
(2)
Flag pole. The flag shall be suspended from a pole and the maximum
height shall be 36 feet. The flag pole shall be placed within a landscaped
setting of not less than one square foot for every one foot of each
flag pole.
(3)
Area. The maximum area of the flag shall be 24 feet; however, this
shall not apply to the United States flag or the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
flag.
(4)
Government flags. Governmental flags provided for elsewhere in the
chapter are not restricted by the provisions of this section.
N.
Wall signs. Wall signs as permitted by this chapter shall be securely
attached to the wall, and each sign shall be parallel to and in the
same plane as the wall to which the sign is attached and shall not
extend more than six inches from the wall, nor above or beyond the
top and ends of the wall.
Temporary signs may be erected and maintained in accordance with the provisions contained in this § 400-70.
A.
General conditions.
(1)
Permit required. No person shall erect, construct, repair, alter
or relocate within the Borough any temporary sign, except real estate
and temporary construction signs, without first obtaining a permit
from the Zoning Officer.
(2)
Materials and methods. The Zoning Officer shall impose, as a condition
of the issuance of a permit for temporary signs, such requirements
as to the material, manner of construction, and method of erection
of a sign as are reasonably necessary to assure the health, safety,
welfare and convenience of the public.
(3)
Illumination. Temporary signs may be illuminated in accord with this
chapter.
(4)
Sign types. Temporary signs shall be limited to nonprojecting wall
signs, attached ground signs, or portable and wheeled signs.
B.
Temporary business signs. Temporary business signs in association
with an approved use, identifying a special, unique or limited activity,
service, product or sale of limited duration, shall be subject to
the following:
(1)
Number. There shall not be more than two permits for temporary business
signs issued for the same premises within one calendar year. Each
temporary business sign permit may be erected and maintained for a
period not to exceed 30 days and shall be removed within three days
of the termination of the activity, service, project or sale. Or,
alternatively, a temporary business sign permit may be applied for
a maximum of five times during one calendar year for the same premises;
each permit shall be issued for a maximum of seven days. It is expressly
stated that temporary business sign permits shall be issued under
one method or the alternative and that the methods may not be used
jointly or in combination during any one calendar year.
(2)
Area. Temporary business signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in
gross surface area for each exposed face.
(3)
Location. Temporary business signs shall be located only upon the
premises upon which the special, unique or limited activity, service
product or sale is to occur. Such signs may be located in any required
yard setback but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15 feet
of any point of vehicular access to a public roadway.
(4)
Height. Temporary business signs shall not project higher than 15
feet, as measured from the average grade of the associated principal
use or structure.
C.
Temporary development signs. Temporary development signs in association
with an approved use, identifying the parties involved in the development
to occur or occurring on the premises on which the sign is placed,
shall be subject to the following:
(1)
Number. There shall not be more than one temporary construction sign
for each project or development, except that, where a project or development
abuts two or more streets, additional such signs, one oriented to
each abutting street, shall be permitted.
(2)
Area.
(a)
Residential districts. In residential districts, temporary construction
signs shall not exceed eight square feet in gross surface area for
each exposed face.
(b)
Nonresidential districts. In nonresidential districts, temporary
construction signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in gross surface
area for each exposed face.
(3)
Location. Temporary construction signs shall be located only upon
the premises upon which construction either is about to occur or is
occurring. Such signs may be located in any required yard setback
but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15 feet of any point
of vehicular access from a public roadway.
(4)
Height. Temporary construction signs shall not project higher than
15 feet, as measured from the base of the sign or grade of the nearest
adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(5)
Special conditions. Temporary construction signs shall be permitted
only as accessory to an approved building permit for a project or
development. Temporary construction signs may be erected and maintained
for a period not earlier than 60 days prior to the commencement of
construction of the project or development and must be removed prior
to an occupancy permit being issued or, if no occupancy permit is
required, the sign shall be removed upon project completion.
D.
Temporary event signs (including banners). Temporary event signs
announcing a campaign, drive, activity or event of a civic, philanthropic,
educational or religious organization for noncommercial purposes shall
be subject to the following:
(1)
Number, area, height and location. The permitted number, area, height,
location and construction of temporary event signs shall be determined
by the Zoning Officer with consideration given to the public intended
purpose. In any event, no sign shall exceed 16 square feet for each
exposed face.
(2)
Timing. Temporary event signs may be erected and maintained for a
period not to exceed 30 days prior to the date of which the campaign,
drive, activity or event advertised is scheduled to occur and shall
be removed within three days of the termination of such campaign,
drive, activity or event.
(3)
Limit on number of permits. No more than two permits for temporary
event signs shall be issued for the same premises within one calendar
year.
E.
Temporary political signs. Temporary political signs announcing political
candidates seeking office, political parties, and/or political and
public issues contained on a ballot shall be subject to the following:
(1)
Location. On private property, temporary political signs may be located
in any required yard but shall not be affixed to a utility pole or
structure or to a fence, tree, shrub, rock or other natural objects,
other than on an owner's individual property. Failure to remove
any such prohibited sign shall empower the Zoning Officer to remove
it at the expense of the owner.
(2)
Area. Temporary political signs shall exceed 12 square feet for each
exposed face.
(3)
Timing. Temporary political signs may be erected or maintained for
a period not to exceed 30 days prior to the date of the election to
which such signs are applicable and shall be removed within seven
days following such election. The candidate is responsible for all
political signs of candidates of the party if they are located in
the public right-of-way.
F.
Temporary real estate signs. Temporary real estate signs advertising
the sale, lease or rent of the premises upon which such sign is located
shall be subject to the following:
(1)
Number. There shall be not more than one temporary real estate sign
for each lot, except that, where a lot abuts two or more streets,
one additional sign, oriented to each abutting street, shall be permitted.
(2)
Area. In R-1, R-2, R-R and C-1 Districts, temporary real estate signs
shall not exceed six square feet for each exposed face. In C-2 and
M-1 Districts, temporary real estate signs shall not exceed 32 square
feet for each exposed face.
(3)
Location. Temporary real estate signs shall be located only upon
the premises for sale, lease or rent. Such signs may be located in
any required yard but shall not extend over any lot line or within
15 feet of any point of vehicular access to a public roadway.
(4)
Height. Temporary real estate signs shall not project higher than
15 feet, as measured from the base of the sign or grade of the nearest
adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(5)
Special conditions. Temporary real estate signs shall be removed
within seven days of the sale or lease of the premises upon which
the sign is located.
G.
Temporary contractor or subcontractor signs. Temporary contractor
or subcontractor signs for the sole purpose of designating the contractor(s)
and subcontractor(s) engaged in the development of a property shall
be subject to the following:
(1)
Number. There shall be not more than one temporary contractor or
subcontractor sign for each contractor or subcontractor working on
the premises.
(2)
Area. Such sign shall not exceed six square feet for each exposed
face in R-1, R-2, R-R and C-1 Districts or 12 square feet for each
exposed face in C-2 and M-1 Zoning Districts; or one sign that includes
all of the participating parties shall not exceed 24 square feet for
each exposed face in R-1, R-2, R-R and C-1 Districts and 48 square
feet for each exposed face in C-2 and M-1 Districts.
(3)
Location. Temporary contractor or subcontractor signs shall be located
only upon the premises where the contractor or subcontractor is working.
Such signs may be located in any required yard but shall not extend
over any lot line or within 15 feet of any point of vehicular access
to a public roadway.
(4)
Height. Temporary contractor or subcontractor signs shall not project
higher than 10 feet, as measured from the base of the sign or grade
of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(5)
Special conditions. Temporary contractor or subcontractor signs shall
be removed immediately upon completion of the contractor's or
subcontractor's work.
H.
Temporary yard or garage sale, open house, or auction signs. Temporary
yard sale or garage sale, open house, or auction signs advertising
the sale of items and the sales location shall be subject to the following:
(1)
Number. For each sale, there shall not be more than two such temporary
signs at each street intersection.
(2)
Area. Such signs shall not exceed four square feet for each exposed
face.
(3)
Location. Such signs may be located within the street or road right-of-way
but not beyond the edge of the street shoulder or curb. Any such temporary
signs shall be self-supported and shall not create a public hazard.
No such sign shall be placed in any Borough park.
(4)
Height. Such temporary signs shall not exceed four feet in height.
(5)
Timing. Such temporary signs may be erected no sooner than two days
before the event and must be removed immediately after the event.
For all residential uses, only the following signs are permitted
and then only if accessory and incidental to a permitted residential
use.
A.
Building name and address signs. Building name and address signs
shall comply with Borough Ordinance No. 8-1990.
B.
Residential development road entrance signs. Residential development
road entrance signs for developments with two or more buildings with
a total of 20 or more dwelling units, indicating only the name of
the development, including single-family, two-family and multifamily
developments and mobile home parks, the management or developer thereof,
and/or the address or location of the development, shall be subject
to the following:
(1)
Type. The residential development road entrance signs shall be ground
signs.
(2)
Number. There shall not be more than two residential development
road entrance signs for each point of vehicular access to a development.
(3)
Area. Residential development road entrance signs shall not exceed
24 square feet in gross surface area.
(4)
Location. Residential development road entrance signs may be located
in any required yard but shall not extend over any lot line or within
15 feet of any point of vehicular access from a public roadway. The
location and arrangement of all residential development signs shall
be subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Officer.
(5)
Height. Residential development road entrance signs shall not project
higher than five feet, as measured from base of sign or grade of the
nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(6)
Sign faces. Residential development road entrance signs may be double-faced
only when one such sign is used at a road entrance.
For all commercial, manufacturing, industrial, public and semipublic uses, referred to as "business" in this section, only the following signs are permitted and then only if accessory and incidental to a permitted use, and such signs shall be subject to the requirements of this § 400-72 and any other special provisions contained in this chapter:
A.
Individual business identification signs. The provisions of this § 400-72A shall apply to parcels upon which an individual business is located.
(1)
Building wall signs (See definition of "wall sign.")
(a)
Area. The aggregate surface area of wall signs shall not exceed
20% of the area of the building wall, including doors and windows,
to which the sign is to be affixed but not to exceed 200 square feet
in C-2 and M-1 Districts and 64 square feet in all other districts.
The surface area of a wall sign may be increased by 10% if such wall
sign consists only of individual, outlined alphabetic, numeric and/or
symbolic characters without background, except that provided by the
building surface to which the sign is to be affixed, and, if illuminated,
such illumination is achieved through shielded spot lighting but not
any lighting where the light source is visible or exposed on the face
or sides of the characters.
(b)
Location. A wall sign may be located on the outermost wall of
any principal building. The location and arrangement of all wall signs
shall be subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Officer.
(c)
Height. A wall sign shall not project higher than the parapet
line of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed or 15 feet, as
measured from the base of the building wall to which the sign is to
be affixed, whichever is lower.
(2)
Freestanding or projecting business identification signs. Freestanding
business identifications signs shall be subject to the following:
(a)
Number. There shall not be more than one freestanding or projecting
business identification sign for each lot.
(b)
Area. The surface area of each face of the business identification
sign shall not exceed 50 square feet in C-2 or M-1 Districts. In all
other districts, the surface area of each face of a freestanding business
identification sign shall not exceed 20 square feet and nine square
feet for projecting signs.
(c)
Location. A freestanding business identification sign shall
maintain side and rear yard setbacks and shall not extend within 15
feet of any point of vehicular access to a public roadway.
(d)
Height. A freestanding business identification sign shall not
project higher than 15 feet. The bottom of a projecting sign shall
have a minimum clearance of nine feet above the sidewalk.
B.
Shopping center and multiple-occupant business identification signs. The provisions of this § 400-72B shall apply to developments in which two or more businesses are housed in one or more principal structures.
(1)
Building wall signs.
(a)
Number. There shall be not more than one wall sign for each
principal business occupant, except that, where a principal occupant
abuts two or more streets, one additional such sign oriented to each
abutting street shall be permitted.
(b)
Area. The surface area of a wall sign shall not exceed 10% of
the occupant's proportionate share of the area of the building
wall, including doors and windows, to which the sign is to be affixed
or 64 square feet, whichever is smaller. The surface area of a wall
sign may be increased by 10% if such wall sign consists only of individual,
outlined alphabetic, numeric and/or symbolic characters without background,
except that provided by the building surface to which the sign is
to be affixed, and, if illuminated, such illumination is achieved
through shielded spot lighting, but not any lighting where the light
source is visible or exposed on the face or sides of the characters.
(c)
Location. A wall sign may be located on the outermost wall of
any principal building. The location and arrangement of all wall signs
shall be subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Officer.
(d)
Height. A wall sign shall not project higher than the parapet
line of the wall to which the sign is to be affixed or 15 feet, as
measured from the base of the building wall to which the sign is to
be affixed, whichever is lower.
(2)
Freestanding business identification signs. Freestanding business
identifications signs may be ground signs or monument signs used solely
for the identification of the development and shall be subject to
the following:
(a)
Number. There shall not be more than one freestanding business
identification sign for each development.
(b)
Area. The surface area of a freestanding business identification
sign shall not exceed a maximum of 50 square feet.
(c)
Location. A freestanding business identification sign shall
maintain side and rear yard setbacks and shall not extend within 15
feet of any point of vehicular access to a public roadway.
(d)
Height. A freestanding business identification sign shall not
project higher than 15 feet, as measured from the average grade at
the base of the sign or the grade of the nearest adjacent roadway,
whichever is lower.
(e)
Individual occupant identification. The freestanding business
identification sign shall not contain the name of any individual business
occupant of the premises unless such tenant or occupant occupies 30%
or more of the total development. Each freestanding business identification
sign may include, affixed directly to it, a directory indicating only
the names of the business occupants of the development in which the
sign is to be located. The directory shall include the names of all
business tenants/occupants on one sign and shall not be comprised
of individual signs. The gross surface area of a directory sign shall
not exceed 10 square feet for each exposed face for each occupant
in the development.
C.
Business subdivision road entrance signs. Business subdivision road
entrance signs for developments with two or more commercial, manufacturing,
industrial, public and semipublic buildings, referred to as "business"
in this section, indicating only the name of the development, shall
be subject to the following:
(1)
Type. The business subdivision road entrance signs shall be ground
signs.
(2)
Number. There shall not be more than two business subdivision road
entrance signs for each point of vehicular access to a development.
(3)
Area. Business subdivision road entrance signs shall not exceed 24
square feet in gross surface area.
(4)
Location. Business subdivision road entrance signs may be located
in any required yard but shall not extend over any lot line or within
15 feet of any point of vehicular access from a public roadway. The
location and arrangement of all residential development signs shall
be subject to the review and approval of the Zoning Officer.
(5)
Height. Business subdivision road entrance signs shall not project
higher than five feet, as measured from base of sign or grade of the
nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
(6)
Sign faces. Business subdivision road entrance signs may be double-faced
only when one such sign is used at a road entrance.
D.
Automatic teller machine (ATM) signs. ATM signs shall be permitted
in association with an approved commercial use, subject to the following:
(1)
Location. Such sign shall be located on the face of the machine and
may only identify the individual business name, logo, time and principal
services offered at the ATM.
(2)
Area. The area of any such sign shall not exceed 10 feet. The bezel
and architectural border of an ATM sign shall not be included in the
sign area unless they contain sign characters, logos or other sign
graphics. The area of any ATM signage not visible beyond the boundaries
of the property shall not be deducted from the sum total area permitted
for the use. Wording, symbols and graphics which instruct persons
on the use of the ATM shall not be considered part of the sign area
unless they are visible beyond the boundaries of the property and
attract the attention of the public.
(3)
Permit. No sign permit shall be required for such sign.
E.
Business directional signs. The intent of this section is to allow
commercial, manufacturing, industrial and institutional uses, referred
to as "business" in this section, located in Dalton Borough and which
do not front on State Route 6/11, to erect temporary signs directing
the public to the business.
(1)
Number. There shall not be more than two directional signs (and only
one sign at each location where erected) for each parcel of land eligible
for such signs. In the case of multiple businesses on the same parcel,
each business shall not be eligible for signs; instead, the directional
signs shall refer to the parcel as a whole.
(2)
Area. The surface area of each sign shall not exceed six square feet
for each exposed face.
(3)
Height. A directional sign shall not project higher than 10 feet,
as measured from the average grade at the base of the sign or the
grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is lower.
(4)
Sign information. The information on the sign shall be limited to
the business name, logo, telephone number and directional information.
(5)
Property owner permission. The person making application for the
erection of a business directional sign shall provide a written statement
of permission signed by the owner of the property upon which the sign
is proposed.
(6)
Temporary nature of signs. All business directional signs shall be
considered temporary signs in terms of nonconformity status should
the number of signs erected in the Borough dictate the imposition
of limitations on such numbers to protect the public health, safety
and welfare. Any such signs which do not comply with any subsequent
amendment of this chapter shall be brought into compliance, including
removal of the sign if required by any new or amended regulations
adopted by the Borough.
The intent of this § 400-73 is to limit the number, size and location of off-premises advertising signs and billboards to reduce visual clutter in the Borough, prevent the distraction of drivers, and maintain the character of the community. Off-premises advertising signs and billboards may be erected and maintained only on parcels in the C-2 District fronting on State Route 6/11 in accord with the requirements of this § 400-73 and all other applicable requirements of this chapter, and applications for such signs shall be considered conditional uses.
A.
Principal use. Off-premises advertising signs and billboards shall
be considered principal uses and shall not be permitted on a lot with
any other principal use.
B.
Illumination; movement. Off-premises advertising sign or billboard
may be illuminated, but flashing lights or devices, moving parts,
changing text and animation, shall be prohibited.
C.
Setbacks. Off-premises advertising signs and billboards shall not
be less than 10 feet from the public right-of-way and not less than
25 feet from any side or rear lot line.
D.
Height of signs. No off-premises advertising sign or billboard shall
project more than 25 feet above the grade of the closest point of
the road surface of Route 6/11.
E.
Maximum area of off-premises advertising signs and billboards.
(1)
The total surface area of each face of any such sign, exclusive of
structural supports and trim, shall not exceed in square feet four
times the frontage of the lot or tract on which it stands, but in
no case more than 300 square feet.
(2)
A sign structure may be double-sided but shall contain only one sign
per facing.
F.
Spacing of off-premises advertising signs and billboards:
(1)
No off-premises advertising sign or billboard shall be permitted
within 500 feet of another off-premises advertising sign or billboard,
measured in all directions: The separation distance shall be measured
between the closest points of the two signs in question.
(2)
No off-premises advertising sign or billboard shall be permitted
within 200 of any dwelling or residential district in the Borough
or any adjoining municipality. The separation distance shall be measured
between the closest points of the proposed sign and the residential
lot or residential district in question.
(3)
No off-premises advertising sign or billboard shall be permitted
within 200 feet of any park, recreational area, trail system, public
or parochial school, municipal building, library, church, hospital
or similar institutional use. The separation distance shall be measured
between the closest points of the proposed sign and the parcel of
land on which the building or use in question is located.
(4)
No off-premises advertising sign or billboard shall be constructed
at an angle of less than 45° to the right-of-way upon which it
fronts.
G.
Engineering certification. Any applications for an off-premises advertising
sign or billboard shall be accompanied by certification under seal
by a professional engineer registered in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
that the sign as proposed will not present a structural safety hazard.
A.
Legal nonconforming signs. Any sign lawfully existing or under construction
on the effective date of this chapter, which does not conform to one
or more of the provisions of this chapter, may be continued in operation
and maintained as a legal nonconforming sign.
B.
Maintenance and repair of legal nonconforming signs. Normal maintenance
of legal nonconforming signs, including changing of copy, necessary
repairs, and incidental alterations which do not extend or intensify
the nonconforming features of the sign, shall be permitted. However,
no alteration, enlargement or extension shall be made to a legal nonconforming
sign unless the alteration, enlargement or extension will result in
the elimination of the nonconforming features of the sign. If a legal
nonconforming sign is damaged or destroyed by any means to the extent
of 50% or more of its replacement value at the time, the sign may
not be rebuilt to its original condition and may not continue to be
displayed.
A.
Obsolete signs. Any sign, whether existing on or erected after the
effective date of this chapter, which advertises a business no longer
being conducted or a product no longer being offered for sale in or
from the premises on which the sign is located, shall be removed within
90 days upon the cessation of such business or sale of such product
by the owner, agent or person having the beneficial interest in the
building or premises on which such sign is located. If the Zoning
Officer shall find that any such sign advertising a business no longer
being conducted or a product no longer being offered for sale in or
from the premises on which the sign is located has not been removed
within 90 days upon the cessation of such business or sale of such
product, he shall give written notices to the owner, agent or person
having the beneficial interest in the building or the premises on
which such sign is located. Removal of the sign shall be effected
within 10 days after receipt of the notice from the Zoning Officer.
If such sign is not removed after the conclusion of such ten-day period,
the Zoning Officer is hereby authorized to cause the sign to be removed
forthwith at the expense of the owner, agent or person having the
beneficial interest in the building or premises on which such sign
is located.
B.
Unsafe signs. If the Zoning Officer shall find that any sign is unsafe
or insecure, or is a menace to the public, he shall give written notice
to the owner, agent or person having the beneficial interest in the
building or the premises on which such sign is located. Correction
to the condition which caused the Zoning Officer to give such notice
shall be effected within 10 days after receipt of the notice. If such
condition is not corrected after the conclusion of such ten-day period,
the Zoning Officer is hereby authorized to cause the sign to be removed
forthwith at the expense of the owner, agent or person having the
beneficial interest in the building or premises on which such sign
is located. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, the Zoning Officer
is authorized to cause any sign to be removed summarily and without
notice, at the expense of the owner, agent or person having the beneficial
interest in the building or premises on which such sign is located,
whenever the Zoning Officer determines that such sign is an immediate
peril to persons or property.
