[Amended 1-18-2018 by Ord. No. 652]
A.
Any sign erected, altered, or maintained after January 23, 2018,
shall conform to the following regulations.
B.
Signs perform an important function in identifying and promoting
properties, businesses, services, residences, events, and other matters
of interest to the public. The intent of this article is to regulate
all signs within Lower Providence Township to ensure that they are
appropriate for their respective uses, in keeping with the appearance
of the affected property and surrounding environment, and protective
of the public health, safety, and general welfare by:
(1)
Setting standards and providing uniform, scientifically based
controls that permit reasonable use of signs and preserve the character
of Lower Providence Township.
(2)
Prohibiting the erection of signs in such numbers, sizes, designs,
illumination, and locations as may create a hazard to pedestrians
and motorists.
(3)
Avoiding excessive conflicts from large or multiple signs, so
that permitted signs provide adequate identification and direction
while minimizing clutter, unsightliness, and confusion.
(4)
Establishing a process for the review and approval of sign permit
applications.
Words and terms used in this article shall have the meanings
given in this article. Unless expressly stated otherwise, any pertinent
word or term not part of this listing but vital to the interpretation
of this article shall be construed to have their legal definition,
or in absence of a legal definition, their meaning as commonly accepted
by practitioners, including civil engineers, surveyors, architects,
landscape architects, and planners.
A sign which has not identified or advertised a current business,
service, owner, product, or activity for a period of at least 180
days, in the case of off-premises signs, or at least 360 days in the
case of on-premises signs.
A sign that designates the street number and/or street name
for identification purposes, as designated by the United States Postal
Service; also known as a nameplate sign.
A sign depicting action, motion, or light or color changes
through electrical or mechanical means.
A cloth, plastic, or other nonstructural covering that projects
from a wall for the purpose of shielding a doorway or window. An awning
is either permanently attached to a building or can be raised or retracted
to a position against the building when not in use.
Any sign painted on, or applied to, an awning.
A lighter-than-air, gas-filled balloon, tethered in a fixed
location, which contains an advertisement message on its surface or
attached to the balloon in any manner.
Any cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or similar nonrigid material
attached to any structure, staff, pole, rope, wire, or framing which
is anchored on two or more edges or at all four corners. Banners are
temporary in nature and do not include flags.
Any source of electric light, whether portable or fixed,
the primary purpose of which is to cast a concentrated beam of light
generally skyward as a means of attracting attention to its location
rather than to illuminate any particular sign, structure, or other
object.
The maximum linear width of a building measured in a single
straight line parallel, or essentially parallel, with the abutting
public street or parking lot.
A structure, other than an awning, made of fabric, metal,
or other material that is supported by columns or posts affixed to
the ground and may also be connected to a building.
Any sign that is part of, or attached to, a canopy.
A sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols change
either automatically through electrical or electronic means, or manually
through placement of letters or symbols on a panel mounted in or on
a track system. These two types of changeable-copy signs include message
center signs, digital displays, and tri-vision boards.
ELECTRONIC CHANGEABLE-COPY SIGNA sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols are changed electronically or digitally.
MANUAL CHANGEABLE-COPY SIGNA sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols are changed manually through placement or drawing of letters or symbols on a sign face.
The distance above the walkway, or other surface if specified,
to the bottom edge of a sign. This term can also refer to a horizontal
distance between two objects.
The portion of a sign message made up of internally illuminated
components capable of changing the message periodically. Digital displays
may include, but are not limited to, LCD, LED, or plasma displays.
Signs designed to provide direction to pedestrian and vehicular
traffic into and out of or within a site.
A type of illumination comprised of either: a) a group of
incandescent light bulbs hung or strung overhead or on a building
or other structure, or b) light bulbs not shaded or hooded or otherwise
screened to prevent direct rays of light from shining on adjacent
properties or rights-of-way.
Any sign printed or painted on cloth, plastic, canvas, or
other like material with distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols
attached to a pole or staff and anchored along only one edge or supported
or anchored at only two corners.
A sign whose artificial illumination is not kept constant
in intensity at all times when in use and which exhibits changes in
light, color, direction, or animation. This definition does not include
electronic message centers signs or digital displays that meet the
requirements set forth herein.
A unit of incident light (on a surface) stated in lumens
per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, a.k.a. footcandle
or light meter. One footcandle is equal to one lumen per square foot.
A unit of emitted light (from a surface) stated in lumens
per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, a.k.a. footcandle
or light meter. One footlambert is equal to one lumen per square foot.
A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed
on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent and detached
from any building or other structure. The following are subtypes of
freestanding signs:
GROUND SIGNA sign permanently affixed to the ground at its base, supported entirely by a base structure, and not mounted on a pole or attached to any part of a building (also known as a "monument sign").
POLE SIGNA freestanding sign that is permanently supported in a fixed location by a structure of one or more poles, posts, uprights, or braces from the ground and not supported by a building or a base structure.
A freestanding, open-air structure constructed for the purpose
of shielding service station islands from the elements.
Any sign that is part of, or attached to, the vertical sides
of the gas station canopy roof structure. For the purposes of this
article, gas station canopy signs shall be considered wall signs.
Any official sign erected and maintained for public safety
purposes, the regulation of traffic, or for identification purposes,
including, but not limited to, highway route number signs, street
signs, parking signs, directional signs, warning signs, railroad crossing
signs, and signs of public service companies indicating danger or
construction, which are erected by or at the order of a governmental
official, officer, employee, or agent thereof, in the discharge of
official duties.
Signs or displays including lighting which are a nonpermanent
installation celebrating national, state, and local holidays, religious
or cultural holidays, or other holiday seasons.
A sign with electrical equipment installed for illumination,
either internally illuminated through its sign face by a light source
contained inside the sign or externally illuminated by a light source
aimed at its surface.
A source of any artificial or reflected light, either directly
from a source of light incorporated in or indirectly from an artificial
source.
EXTERNAL ILLUMINATIONArtificial light, located away from the sign, which lights the sign, the source of which may or may not be visible to persons viewing the sign from any street, sidewalk, or adjacent property.
INTERNAL ILLUMINATIONA light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. Message center signs, digital displays, and signs incorporating neon lighting shall not be considered internal illumination for the purposes of this article.
HALO ILLUMINATIONA sign using a three-dimensional message, logo, etc., which is lit in such a way as to produce a halo effect.
A sign that displays general site information, instructions,
directives, or restrictions that are primarily oriented to pedestrians
and motor vehicle operators who have entered a property from a public
street. These signs shall not contain any commercial advertising.
Signs displayed in the window displaying information such
as the business' hours of operation, credit institutions accepted,
commercial and civic affiliations, and similar information. These
signs shall be informational only and shall not contain a commercial
message.
A sign that is an air-inflated object, which may be of various
shapes, made of flexible fabric, resting on the ground or structure
and equipped with a portable blower motor that provides a constant
flow of air into the device.
An electronic or animated sign that reacts to the behavior
or electronic signals of motor vehicle drivers.
The physical attributes of a sign that allow for an observer's
differentiation of its letters, words, numbers, or graphics.
A nonpermanent sign that is displayed on private property
for more than 30 days, but not intended to be displayed for an indefinite
period.
An objective measurement of the brightness of illumination,
including illumination emitted by an electronic sign, measured in
candles per square foot (cd/sq. ft.).
A permanent structure, other than a roof or canopy, attached
to, supported by, and projecting from a building and providing protection
from the elements.
Any sign attached to a marquee for the purpose of identifying
a use or product. If attached to a theater, performing arts center,
cinema, or other similar use, it may also advertise films or productions.
A sign having parts that physically move or revolve rather
than merely appear to move as might be found in a digital display.
The physical movement may be activated electronically or by another
means, but shall not include wind-activated movement such as used
for banners or flags. Mechanical movement signs do not include digital
signs that have changeable, programmable displays.
A memorial plaque or tablet, including grave markers or other
remembrances of persons or events, which is not used for a commercial
message.
A type of illuminated, changeable-copy sign that consists
of electronically changing alphanumeric text, often used for gas price
display signs and athletic scoreboards.
The spreading of one message across more than one sign structure.
A large picture/image (including but not limited to painted
art) which is painted, constructed, or affixed directly onto a vertical
building wall, which may or may not contain text, logos, and/or symbols.
A sign which was erected prior to the establishment of zoning
regulations within the Township or was erected in compliance with
the then-enacted zoning regulations, but does not currently comply
with sign regulations of the zoning district in which it is located.
An outdoor sign whose message directs attention to a specific
business, product, service, event or activity, or other commercial
or noncommercial activity, or contains a noncommercial message about
something that is not sold, produced, manufactured, furnished, or
conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located. (also known
as a "billboard").
A sign whose message and design relate to an individual business,
profession, product, service, event, point of view, or other commercial
or noncommercial activity sold, offered, or conducted on the same
property where the sign is located.
A sign attached or affixed to a building, window, or structure,
or to the ground in a manner that enables the sign to resist environmental
loads, such as wind, and that precludes ready removal or movement
of the sign and whose intended use appears to be indefinite.
An on-premises sign that expresses an opinion, interest,
position, or other noncommercial message.
A sign designed to be transported or moved and not permanently
attached to the ground, a building, or other structure.
SANDWICH BOARD SIGNA type of freestanding, portable, temporary sign consisting of two faces connected and hinged at the top and whose message is targeted to pedestrians.
VEHICULAR SIGNA sign affixed to a vehicle in such a manner that the sign is used primarily as a stationary advertisement for the business on which the vehicle sits or is otherwise not incidental to the vehicle's primary purpose. No off-premises vehicular signs shall be permitted.
A sign indicating a street or drive which is not publicly
owned and maintained and used only for access by the occupants of
the development and their guests.
A building-mounted, double-sided sign with the two faces
generally perpendicular to the building wall, not to include signs
located on a canopy, awning, or marquee.
A sign containing any material or device which has the effect
of intensifying reflected light.
A sign contained within an athletic venue and intended solely
to provide information to the attendees of an athletic event.
The description of a luminaire from which no direct glare
is visible at normal viewing angles, by virtue of its being properly
aimed, oriented, and located and properly fitted with such devices
as shields, barn doors, baffles, louvers, skirts, or visors.
Any device, structure, fixture, painting, emblem, or visual
that uses words, graphics, colors, illumination, symbols, numbers,
or letters for the purpose of communicating a message. A sign includes
the sign faces as well as any sign-supporting structure.
The total dimensions of a sign surface used to display information, messages, advertising, logos, or symbols. See § 143-143 for standards for measuring sign area.
The part of the sign that is or can be used for the sign
area. The sign area could be smaller than the sign face.
The vertical dimension of a sign as measured using the standards in § 143-143.
Poles, posts, walls, frames, brackets, or other supports
holding a sign in place.
A sign tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued, or otherwise
attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences, public benches, streetlights,
or other objects, or placed on any public property or in the public
right-of-way or on any private property without the permission of
the property owner.
The exterior facade of a building housing a commercial use
visible from a street, sidewalk, or other pedestrian way accessible
to the public and containing the primary entrance to the commercial
establishment.
The side or sides of a lot abutting on a public street or
right-of-way.
A banner suspended above a public sidewalk and attached to
a single street pole, not including utility poles. These signs shall
not contain any commercial advertising.
A type of nonpermanent sign that is located on private property
that can be displayed for no more than 30 consecutive days at one
time.
An outdoor unit with a slatted face that allows three different
copy messages to revolve at intermittent intervals.
A sign displayed on a vending machine indicating the name
of the product being sold and/or the price of such product.
A building-mounted sign which is either attached to, displayed
on, or painted on an exterior wall in a manner parallel with the wall
surface. A sign installed on a false or mansard roof is also considered
a wall sign.
An on-premises sign regulating the use of the premises, such
as a "no trespassing," "no hunting," or "no soliciting" sign.
Any sign that is applied, painted, or affixed to a window,
or placed inside a window, within three feet of the glass, facing
the outside of the building, and easily seen from the outside. Customary
displays of merchandise or objects and material without lettering
behind a store window are not considered signs.
The following signs are unlawful and prohibited:
A.
Abandoned signs.
B.
Snipe signs. Signs shall only be attached to utility poles in conformance with state and utility regulations and the requirements of this article. See Chapter 90 for yard and garage sale regulations.
C.
Mechanical movement signs, except clocks or barber poles.
D.
Animated signs, flashing signs, or signs that scroll or flash text
or graphics.
E.
Any signs that imitate, resemble, interfere with, or obstruct government/regulator
signs and/or official traffic lights, signs, or signals.
F.
Signs which prevent free ingress or egress from any door, window,
fire escape, or that prevent free access from one part of a roof to
any other part. No sign other than a safety sign shall be attached
to a standpipe or fire escape.
G.
Signs which emit smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, sound,
or odor or contain open flames.
H.
Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors.
I.
Interactive signs.
J.
Signs incorporating beacon or festoon lighting.
K.
Any banner or sign of any type suspended across a public street,
without the permission of the owner of the property and road.
L.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with
the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or
federal government.
M.
Any sign containing information which states or implies that a property
may be used for any purpose not permitted under the provisions of
the Code of Lower Providence Township.
N.
Signs that exhibit statements, words, or pictures of obscene or pornographic
subjects.
O.
Any sign that promotes illegal activity.
The following signs shall be allowed without a sign permit and
shall not be included in the determination of the type, number, or
area of permanent signs allowed upon a property, provided such signs
comply with the regulations in this section, if any:
A.
Government/regulatory signs.
B.
Signs inside a building, or other enclosed facility, which are not
meant to be viewed from the outside, and are located greater than
three feet from an outside window.
C.
Holiday decorations.
D.
Personal expression signs of any sign type, including flags, provided
that they do not exceed three square feet in area per side, are noncommercial
in nature, and not illuminated.
E.
Address signs: up to two signs stating address, number, and/or name
of occupants of the premises, and do not include any commercial advertising
or other identification.
F.
Signs or emblems of a religious, civil, philanthropic, historical,
or educational organization that do not to exceed four square feet
in area.
G.
Private drive signs: one sign per driveway entrance, not to exceed
two square feet in area.
H.
Warning signs. These limitations shall not apply to the posting of
conventional "no trespassing" signs in accordance with state law.
I.
Flags.
(1)
Location. Flags and flagpoles shall not be located within any
right-of-way.
(2)
Height. Flags and poles shall have a maximum height of 30 feet.
(3)
Number. No more than two flags per lot in residential districts.
No more than three flags per lot in all other districts.
(4)
Size. Maximum flag size is 24 square feet in residential districts,
35 square feet in all other districts.
(5)
Flags containing commercial messages may be used as permitted
freestanding or projecting signs, and, if so used, the area of the
flag shall be included in and limited by the computation of allowable
area for that type of sign on the property.
J.
Legal notices.
K.
Vending machine signs.
L.
Memorial signs, public monument, or historical identification sign
erected by the Township or a nonprofit organization, including plaque
signs up to three square feet in area.
M.
Signs which are a permanent architectural feature of a building or
structure, existing as of January 23, 2018.
N.
Signs advertising the variety of crops growing in a field. Such signs
shall be removed after the growing season.
O.
Incidental signs, including incidental window signs.
Q.
Art and murals, provided such signs do not contain any commercial
messaging.
A.
Sign location.
(1)
No sign shall be placed in such a position as to endanger pedestrians,
bicyclists, or traffic on a street by obscuring the view or by interfering
with official street signs or signals by virtue of position or color.
(2)
No sign may occupy a sight triangle, except government/regulatory
signs.
(3)
Signs and their supporting structures shall maintain clearance
and noninterference with all surface and underground utility and communications
lines or equipment.
B.
Sign materials and construction: Every sign shall be constructed
of durable materials, using noncorrosive fastenings; shall be structurally
safe and erected or installed in strict accordance with the Pennsylvania
Uniform Construction Code; and shall be maintained in safe condition
and good repair at all times so that all sign information is clearly
legible.
C.
Sign area.
(1)
The "area of a sign" shall mean the area of all lettering, wording,
and accompanying designs, logos, and symbols. The area of a sign shall
not include any supporting framework, bracing or trim which is incidental
to the display, provided that it does not contain any lettering, wording,
or symbols.
(2)
Where the sign consists of individual letters, designs, or symbols
attached to a building, awning, wall, or window, the area shall be
that of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters,
designs, and symbols.
(3)
Signs may be double-sided.
(a)
On-premises signs.
[1]
Only one side shall be considered when determining
the sign area, provided that the faces are equal in size, the interior
angle formed by the faces is less than 45°, and the two faces
are not more than 18 inches apart.
[2]
Where the faces are not equal in size, but the
interior angle formed by the faces is less than 45° and the two
faces are not more than 18 inches apart, the larger sign face shall
be used as the basis for calculating sign area.
[3]
When the interior angle formed by the faces is
greater than 45°, or the faces are greater than 18 inches apart,
all sides of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign
area.
(b)
Off-premises signs.
[1]
Only one side shall be considered when determining
the sign area, provided that the faces are equal in size, the interior
angle formed by the faces is less than 45°, and the two faces
are not more than five feet apart.
[2]
Where the faces are not equal in size, but the
interior angle formed by the faces is less than 45° and the two
faces are not more than five feet apart, the larger sign face shall
be used as the basis for calculating sign area.
[3]
When the interior angle formed by the faces is
greater than 45°, or the faces are greater than five feet apart,
all sides of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign
area.
(4)
Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more
three-dimensional or irregularly shaped objects, shall have a sign
area of the sum of two adjacent vertical sign faces of the smallest
cube encompassing the sign or object.
(5)
If elements of a sign are movable or flexible, such as a flag
or banner, the measurement is taken when the elements are fully extended
and parallel to the plane of view.
(6)
The permitted maximum area for all signs on a property is determined
by the sign type and the zoning district in which the sign is located.
D.
Sign height.
(1)
Sign height shall be measured as the distance from the highest
portion of the sign to the mean finished grade of the street closest
to the sign. In the case of a sign located greater than 50 feet from
the legal right-of-way a public street, height shall be measured to
the mean grade at the base of the sign.
(2)
Clearance for freestanding and projecting signs shall be measured
as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest
point of the sign, including any framework or other structural elements.
(3)
The permitted maximum height for all signs is determined by
the sign type and the zoning district in which the sign is located.
E.
Sign spacing. The spacing between sign structures shall be measured
as a straight-line distance between the closest edges of each sign.
F.
Sign illumination.
(2)
Signs may be illuminated, unless otherwise specified herein,
consistent with the following standards:
(a)
Light sources to illuminate signs shall neither be visible from
any street right-of-way nor cause glare hazardous or distracting to
pedestrians, vehicle drivers, or adjacent properties.
(b)
No more than 0.2 footcandle of light shall be detectable at
the boundary of any abutting property.
(c)
Hours of operation.
(d)
Brightness. Message center signs and digital displays are subject
to the following brightness limits:
[1]
During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset,
luminance shall be no greater than 5,000 nits.
[2]
At all other times, luminance shall be no greater
than 250 nits.
[3]
Each sign must have a light-sensing device that
will automatically adjust the brightness of the display as the natural
ambient light conditions change to comply with the limits set here
within.
(3)
(4)
Message center signs are subject to the following regulations,
in addition to all other illumination requirements established in
this section.
(b)
Height. A message center sign shall have the same height limits
as other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(c)
Area.
[1]
When used as an on-premises sign, message center
signs shall not exceed 50% of the sign area for any one sign, and
shall not exceed more than 30% of the total area for all signs permitted
on a property.
[2]
When used as an off-premises sign, message center
signs may be used for the full permitted sign area.
(d)
Maximum number. Where permitted, one message center sign is
permitted per street frontage, up to a maximum of two message center
signs per property.
(e)
Message display.
[1]
No message center sign may contain text which flashes,
pulsates, moves, or scrolls. Each complete message must fit on one
screen.
[2]
The content of a message center sign must transition
by changing instantly (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
[3]
Default design. The sign shall contain a default
design which shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction
should occur.
[4]
Duration. The sign shall not transition between
messages more quickly than once every 10 seconds.
(f)
Conversion of a permitted non-message center sign to a message
center sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to the requirements
of this article.
(g)
The addition of any message center sign to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(h)
Public service announcements. The owners of all new message
center signs are encouraged to coordinate with the local authorities
to display, when appropriate, emergency information important to the
traveling public including, but not limited to, Amber Alerts or alerts
concerning terrorist attacks or natural disasters. Emergency information
messages shall remain in the advertising rotation according to the
protocols of the agency that issues the information.
(5)
Digital display signs are subject to the following regulations
in addition to all other requirements established in this section:
(b)
Height. A digital display shall have the same height limits
as for other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(d)
Maximum number per property. Where permitted, one digital display
sign is permitted per property.
(e)
Message display.
[1]
Any digital display containing animation, streaming
video, or text or images which flash, pulsate, move, or scroll is
prohibited. Each complete message must fit on one screen.
[2]
One message/display may be brighter than another,
but each individual message/display must be static in intensity.
[3]
The content of a digital display must transition
by changing instantly, with no transition graphics (e.g., no fade-out
or fade-in).
[4]
Default design. The sign shall contain a default
design which shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction
should occur.
[5]
Duration. The sign shall not transition between
messages/displays more quickly than once every 10 seconds.
(f)
Conversion of a permitted nondigital sign to a digital sign
requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to the requirements of
this article.
(g)
The addition of any digital display to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(h)
Public service announcements. Every owner of a digital sign
is encouraged to coordinate with the local authorities to display,
when appropriate, emergency information important to the traveling
public including, but not limited to, Amber Alerts or alerts concerning
terrorist attacks or natural disasters. Emergency information messages
shall remain in the advertising rotation according to the protocols
of the agency that issues the information.
(6)
Glare control. Glare control shall be achieved primarily through
the use of such means as cutoff fixtures, shields, and baffles, and
appropriate application of fixture mounting height, wattage, aiming
angle, and fixture placement. Vegetation screens shall not be employed
to serve as the primary means for controlling glare.
A.
Wall signs.
(1)
No portion of a wall sign shall be mounted less than eight feet
above the finished grade or extend out more than 12 inches from the
building wall on which it is affixed. If the wall sign projects less
than three inches from the building wall on which it is affixed, the
eight-foot height requirement need not be met.
B.
Canopy or awning signs.
(1)
A canopy or awning without lettering or other advertising shall
not be regulated as a sign.
(2)
Canopy or awning signs must be centered within or over architectural
elements such as windows or doors.
(3)
No awning or canopy sign shall be wider than the building wall
or tenant space it identifies.
(5)
Sign height.
(a)
The lowest edge of the canopy or awning sign shall be at least
eight feet above the finished grade.
(6)
Any ground-floor awning projecting into a street right-of-way
must be retractable.
(7)
Awnings above the ground floor may be fixed, provided they do
not project more than four feet from the face of the building.
(8)
Multi-tenant buildings. If the awning or canopy sign is mounted
on a multi-tenant building, all awning or canopy signs shall be similar
in terms of height, projection, and style across all tenants in the
building.
C.
Projecting signs.
(1)
No portion of a projecting sign shall project more than four
feet from the face of the building.
(2)
The outermost portion of a projecting sign shall project no
closer than five feet from a curbline or shoulder of a public street.
(3)
Sign height. The lowest edge of a projecting sign shall be at
least eight feet above the highest point of the finished grade directly
below the sign.
D.
Window signs.
(1)
Incidental window signs shall be excluded from area calculations
for window signs.
E.
F.
Freestanding signs.
(1)
The lowest edge of any freestanding pole sign shall be either
less than four feet or greater than seven feet above the highest point
of the finished grade directly below the sign.
(2)
Freestanding ground signs shall be supported and permanently
placed by embedding, anchoring, or connecting the sign in such a manner
as to incorporate it into the landscape or architectural design scheme.
(3)
Sign placement.
(a)
All freestanding signs shall be set back five feet from the
right-of-way, except for government/regulatory signs.
(b)
No freestanding sign may occupy an area designated for parking,
loading, walkways, driveways, fire lane, easement, cartway of the
right-of-way or other areas required to remain unobstructed.
G.
Manual changeable copy signs. Manual changeable copy signs are permitted
only when integrated into a freestanding, marquee, wall, or portable
sign.
H.
Limited duration signs. Limited duration signs are subject to the
regulations set forth below. Limited duration signs that comply with
the requirements of this section shall not be included in the determination
of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property. Unless
otherwise stated below, the requirements listed below shall apply
to both commercial and noncommercial signs.
(1)
Size and number: nonresidential zones.
(a)
Large limited duration signs: One large limited duration sign
is permitted per property in all nonresidential zones. If a property
is greater than five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street
frontage or has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional
large limited duration sign may be permitted so long as there is a
minimum spacing of 200 feet between the two large limited duration
signs.
(b)
Small limited duration signs. In addition to the large limited
duration sign(s) outlined above, one small limited duration sign is
permitted per property in all nonresidential zones. If a property
is greater than five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street
frontage or has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional
small sign may be permitted.
(2)
Size and number: residential zones.
(a)
Large limited duration sign. One large limited duration sign
is permitted per property, so long as the property is greater than
five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or
has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(b)
Small limited duration sign. One small limited duration sign
is permitted per property.
(3)
Permit requirements.
(a)
A permit for a limited duration sign is issued for one year
and may be renewed annually.
(b)
One sign is allowed per permit. An applicant may request up
to two permits per address, but is subject to the size and number
requirements set forth in this section.
(c)
An application for a limited duration sign permit must include:
[1]
A description of the sign indicating the number,
size, shape, dimensions, and colors of the sign, and the expected
length of time the sign will be displayed;
[2]
A schematic drawing of the site showing the proposed
location of the sign in relation to nearby building and streets; and
[3]
The number of signs on the site.
(4)
Installation and maintenance.
(a)
All limited duration signs must be installed such that, in the
opinion of the Township Zoning Officer, they do not create a safety
hazard.
(b)
All limited duration signs must be made of durable materials
and shall be well maintained.
(c)
Limited duration signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that
are no longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to
be removed.
(5)
Illumination. Illumination of any limited duration sign is prohibited.
I.
Temporary signs. Temporary signs are exempt from standard permit
requirements. Temporary signs that comply with the requirements of
this section shall not be included in the determination of the type,
number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
(1)
Unless otherwise stated below, the requirements listed below
shall apply to both commercial and noncommercial signs.
(2)
Size and number: nonresidential districts.
(a)
Large temporary signs: One large temporary sign is permitted
per property in all nonresidential districts. If a property is greater
than five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage
or has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional
large temporary sign may be permitted so long as there is a minimum
spacing of 200 feet between the two large temporary signs.
(b)
Small temporary signs. In addition to the large temporary sign(s)
outlined above, one small temporary sign is permitted per property
in all nonresidential districts. If a property is greater than five
acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or has
more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional small sign
may be permitted so long as there is a minimum spacing of 200 feet
between both sets of small temporary signs.
(3)
Size and number: residential districts.
(a)
Large temporary signs. One large temporary sign is permitted
per residential property so long as the property is greater than five
acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or has
more than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(b)
Small temporary signs. One small temporary sign is permitted
per residential property.
(4)
Duration and removal.
(a)
Temporary signs may be displayed up to a maximum of 30 consecutive
days, two times per year.
(b)
The Township or the property owner may confiscate signs installed
in violation of this article. Neither the Township nor the property
owner is responsible for notifying sign owners of confiscation of
an illegal sign.
(5)
Permission. The party posting the temporary sign is solely responsible
for obtaining the permission of the property owner before posting
their temporary sign.
(6)
Installation and maintenance.
(a)
All temporary signs must be installed such that, in the opinion
of Township Zoning Officer, they do not create a safety hazard.
(b)
All temporary signs must be made of durable materials and shall
be well maintained.
(c)
Temporary signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are no
longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
(7)
Illumination. Illumination of any temporary sign is prohibited.
J.
Portable signs.
(1)
General provisions.
(a)
Illumination. Illumination of any portable sign is prohibited.
(b)
Hours of display. Signs shall not be displayed on any premises
before 6:00 a.m. and shall be removed each day at or before 10:00
p.m. However, all portable signs must be taken in during hours of
nonoperation of the business being advertised.
(2)
Sandwich board signs. Sandwich board signs that comply with
the requirements of this section shall not be included in the determination
of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
(a)
Number. One sandwich board sign is permitted per establishment.
For the purposes of this section, a parking garage or parking lot
shall be considered an establishment.
(b)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of seven square feet
per sign face.
(c)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 3.5 feet.
(d)
Sign placement.
[1]
If a sign is located on a public or private sidewalk,
a minimum of 36 inches of unobstructed sidewalk clearance must be
maintained between the sign and any building or other obstruction.
[2]
The sign must be located on the premises and within
12 feet of the primary public entrance of the establishment it advertises.
For the purposes of this section, a public entrance includes a vehicular
entrance into a parking garage or parking lot.
[3]
Portable signs shall be weighted, temporarily secured,
or strategically placed so as to avoid being carried away by high
winds.
(3)
Vehicular signs. Vehicular signs are subject to the regulations
found in Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Code.
K.
Street pole banners. Street pole banner signs that comply with the
requirements of this section shall not be included in the determination
of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
(1)
Illumination. Illumination of any street pole banner is prohibited.
(2)
Area. Each street pole banner shall have a maximum area of 12.5
square feet and a maximum width of three feet. Up to two street pole
banners are permitted per street pole.
(3)
Height.
(a)
When the street pole banner's edge is less than 18 inches from
the curb, the lowest edge of the street pole banner shall be at least
14 feet above the highest point of the finished grade directly below
the banner.
(b)
When the street pole banner's edge is greater than 18 inches
from the curb, the lowest edge of the street pole banner shall be
at least eight feet above the highest point of the finished grade
directly below the banner.
(4)
Location.
(a)
No street pole banner shall extend beyond the curbline.
(b)
Street pole banners shall maintain a minimum three-foot vertical
clearance below any luminaries located on the pole measured from where
the ballasts connect to the poles.
(c)
Street pole banners shall not interfere with the visibility
of government/regulatory signs and/or traffic signals or signs.
(d)
No street pole banner shall be located on a pole that has traffic
or pedestrian control signals.
(6)
Permit requirements.
(a)
A permit for a street pole banner is issued for one year and
may be renewed annually.
(b)
An application for a street pole banner permit must include
the following:
[1]
A diagram or map of the specific poles to be used
for street pole banner installation and the streets on which the poles
are located.
[2]
A proof of the street pole banner design, including
the banner's dimensions.
[3]
If brackets are to be installed, submit specifications
for the bracket installation system.
[4]
Written permission from the pole owner.
(7)
No street pole banners shall be attached to utility poles.
B.
Sign size. An off-premises sign located along a limited access highway
is restricted to 672 square feet. All other off-premises signs are
subject to the following size restrictions according to the posted
speed limit of the road which the off-premises sign faces:
|
Posted Speed Limit
(miles per hour)
|
Maximum Sign Area
(square feet)
|
|
0-45
|
64
|
|
46-55
|
150
|
|
56-65
|
200
|
|
66+
|
300
|
D.
Spacing. Off-premises signs shall be:
(1)
Set back from the ultimate right-of-way a distance equal to
the height of the off-premises sign or 15 feet, whichever is greater.
(2)
Located no closer than 50 feet to any property line.
(3)
Located no closer than 50 feet to any building, structure, or
on-premises sign located on the same property.
(4)
Located no closer than 500 feet to another off-premises sign
on either side of the road, measured linearly.
(5)
Located no closer than 500 feet to any intersection or interchange
(on/off ramp).
(6)
Located no closer than 1,000 feet to any property line of a
public park, playground, religious institution, cemetery, or school.
(7)
Not attached to the external wall or otherwise affixed to any
part of any building and shall not extend over any public property
or right-of-way.
(8)
Not located on sewer rights-of-way, or water, electric, gas
or petroleum easements or upon any other easement held by a third
party.
(9)
Not located on a bridge.
(10)
Located no closer than 200 feet to any residential zoning district.
E.
Content. Off-premises signs shall not display any message or graphic
of an obscene or pornographic nature.
F.
Double-sided off-premises signs. Signs may be single- or double-sided, in accordance with § 143-143.
G.
Message sequencing is prohibited.
H.
Construction and maintenance.
(1)
All plans for off-premises signs shall be certified by a licensed
engineer registered in Pennsylvania.
(2)
All off-premises advertising signs shall be constructed in accordance
with industry-wide standards established by the Outdoor Advertising
Association of America and the Institute of Outdoor Advertising, or
their successor organizations. All off-premises advertising signs
shall be structurally sound and maintained in good condition and in
compliance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code.
(3)
The rear face of a single-face, off-premises advertising sign
shall be painted and maintained with a single neutral color as approved
by the Township.
(4)
Every three years, the owner of the billboard shall have a structural
inspection made of the billboard by a licensed engineer registered
in Pennsylvania and shall provide to the Township a certificate certifying
that the billboard is structurally sound.
I.
Identification of sign owner. All off-premises signs shall be identified
on the structure with the name, address, and phone number of the owner
of such sign.
J.
Landscaping.
(1)
Landscaping shall be provided at the base of all off-premises
signs. Trees and shrubbery, including evergreen and flowering trees,
of sufficient size and quantity shall be used to achieve the purpose
of this section.
(2)
Trees greater than four inches in diameter removed for construction
of the sign shall be replaced or replanted at an alternative location
as directed by the Township at a ratio of one replacement tree for
each removed tree, using native species no less than three inches
in diameter.
K.
Additional regulations. All off-premises signs shall comply with
any and all applicable zoning regulations of the Township and all
other applicable municipal, state, and/or federal regulations. In
the event any other applicable regulation is in conflict with the
provisions of this section, the more strict regulation shall apply.
L.
Application/plan requirements. Plans submitted for off-premises advertising
signs shall show the following:
(1)
The location of the proposed sign on the lot with the required
sign setbacks from the property line and ultimate right-of-way.
(2)
The location and species of existing trees.
(3)
The distance to the nearest existing off-premises advertising
sign.
(4)
The distance to the nearest right-of-way, property line, building,
structure, on-premises sign, off-premises sign, intersection, interchange,
safety rest area, bridge, residential district, or institutional use,
sewer rights-of-way, and water, electric or petroleum pipelines.
(5)
Site plan containing all of the applicable requirements set
forth in this article.
(6)
Certification under the seal by a licensed engineer that the
off-premises sign, as proposed, is designed in accordance with all
federal, state, and local laws, codes, and professional standards.
M.
Illumination and changeable copy of off-premises signs.
(1)
Off-premises signs may incorporate manual changeable copy signs.
(2)
Off-premises signs may be illuminated, provided that:
(4)
Off-premises signs may incorporate tri-vision boards.
(a)
The length of time each message of the tri-vision board may
be displayed before changing is based upon the visibility and posted
speed limit unique to individual signs and adjacent road conditions.
No message duration for a tri-vision board shall be shorter than 10
seconds.
N.
Safety. In applying for special exception relief, the applicant bears
the burden of proof to establish that the proposed off-premises sign
will not create a public health or safety hazard in the manner and
location that it is proposed and in the manner by which it is to be
operated.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 143-140.1, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the R-1 District, subject to the conditions specified here and elsewhere within this article.
C.
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations:
D.
Wall and projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted
subject to the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per building frontage up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story window sill, whichever is lower.
(4)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 143-140.1, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, and MHP Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and elsewhere within this article.
D.
Freestanding signs for residential developments or apartment buildings
containing more than 10 units shall be permitted subject to the following
regulations:
E.
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations:
F.
Wall and projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted
subject to the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per building frontage, up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story window sill, whichever is lower.
(4)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 143-140.1, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the VC and EVC Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and elsewhere within this article.
D.
The total area of all wall, awning/canopy, and projecting signs shall
be limited to 1.5 square feet per one linear foot of building frontage
that faces a public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size
limitations based on sign type.
E.
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per street frontage, up to two signs
per tenant. Where a property has entrances facing both a street and
a parking lot, a second sign is permitted to face the parking lot.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 12 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story window sill, whichever is lower.
G.
Projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per ground floor establishment, plus one sign
per building entrance serving one or more commercial tenants without
a ground floor entrance.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 10 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story window sill, whichever is lower.
(4)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
H.
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations:
I.
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 15 square feet,
plus an additional five square feet per tenant, up to a maximum of
30 square feet.
(3)
Height. Freestanding signs shall have a maximum height of 10
feet.
Except as noted below, the following numbers and types of signs
may be erected in the GC, HC, PBO, LI, I, IP, MU, RPB, and RPW Districts,
subject to the conditions specified here and elsewhere within this
article.
D.
The total area of all wall, awning/canopy, and projecting signs for
nonresidential uses shall be limited to 1.5 square feet per one linear
foot of building frontage that faces a public street or parking lot,
subject to maximum size limitations based on sign type.
E.
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per street frontage, up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant. Where a store has entrances facing both a
street and a parking lot, a second sign is permitted to face the parking
lot.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 32 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline.
F.
Awning or canopy signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted
subject to the following regulations:
G.
Projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per ground floor establishment, plus one sign
per building entrance serving one or more commercial tenants without
a ground floor entrance.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline.
H.
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations:
(1)
Area. A maximum of 25% of the total window area of any single
storefront may be used for permanent signs that are etched, painted,
or permanently affixed to the window. A maximum of 35% of the total
window area of any single storefront may be covered by a combination
of permanent and temporary window signs.
I.
Marquee signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations:
J.
In addition to building signs, freestanding signs for nonresidential
uses shall be permitted subject to the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(a)
For permitted gas stations, one additional freestanding sign
per street frontage shall be permitted for the advertising of gas
prices and identification of the gas station only, up to two additional
signs per property.
(b)
For permitted drive-through establishments, one additional freestanding
sign shall be permitted for the advertising items for sale to users
of the drive-through lane only.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 50 square feet
plus an additional 10 square feet per tenant, up to a maximum of 100
square feet.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 20 feet.
K.
Upper-level building identification signs shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations:
(1)
Number. One sign per building.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 200 square feet.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 10 feet and shall
not extend vertically beyond the eaveline.
(4)
Location. Signs shall be limited to buildings at least three
stories in height and shall be located only on the top floor of such
buildings.
A.
B.
Signs located on the interior of the site used to identify various
use areas, facility boundaries, on-site traffic direction, trail use
information, the hours and rules for the use of the grounds, etc.,
are exempt from permit requirements subject to the following:
C.
Signs for recreation and sporting facilities shall be allowed, provided
that the following criteria is met:
(1)
Signs on the interior walls or fence of an open stadium or field
shall be no greater than 24 square feet in size, and shall be designed
to be viewed from the inside of the stadium only, and nonilluminated.
(2)
One freestanding scoreboard, not to exceed 200 square feet in
area and 20 feet in height, is permitted per playing field.
A.
Unsafe or unlawful signs.
(1)
Upon written notice by the Township, the owner, person, or firm
maintaining a sign shall remove the sign when it becomes unsafe; is
in danger of falling; becomes so deteriorated that it no longer serves
a useful purpose of communication; is determined by the Township to
be a nuisance; is deemed unsafe by the Township; or it is unlawfully
erected in violation of any of the provisions of this article.
(2)
The Township may remove or cause to be removed the sign at the
expense of the owner and/or lessee in the event of the owner of the
person or firm maintaining the sign has not complied with the terms
of the notice within 30 days of the date of the notice. In the event
of immediate danger, the Township may remove the sign immediately
upon the issuance of notice to the owner, person, or firm maintaining
the sign.
B.
Abandoned signs.
(1)
It shall be the responsibility of the owner of any property
upon which an abandoned sign is located to remove such sign within
180 days of the sign becoming abandoned as defined in this section.
Removal of an abandoned sign shall include the removal of the entire
sign including the sign face, supporting structure, and structural
trim.
(2)
Where the owner of the property on which an abandoned sign is
located fails to remove such sign in 180 days and where the sign is
unsafe, a hazard to the public or in violation of the Township's Property
Maintenance Code, the Township may pursue any and all remedies to
correct the violation. Any expense directly incurred in the removal
of such sign shall be charged to the owner of the property.
A.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect, alter, or relocate any sign within the Township without first obtaining a sign permit, unless the sign is specifically exempt from the permit requirements as outlined in § 143-140.1.
B.
In order to apply for a sign permit, the applicant must provide the
following information, in writing, to the Township:
(1)
Name of organization and location.
(2)
Name, address, and telephone number of the property owner, and
the signature of the property owner or duly authorized agent for the
owner.
(3)
Contact person and contact information.
(4)
Description of any existing signage that will remain on the
site.
(5)
Identification of the type of sign(s) to be erected by the applicant.
(6)
Site plan depicting the locations of proposed signage and existing
remaining signage.
(7)
Two copies of a plan drawn to scale depicting:
(a)
Lot dimensions, building frontage, and existing cartways, rights-of-way
and driveways.
(b)
The design of each sign face and sign structure, including dimensions,
total area, sign height, depth, color scheme, structural details,
materials, lighting scheme and proposed location.
(c)
Building elevations, existing and proposed facades, parapet
walls, eaveline and the location and size of all proposed and existing
permanent signage.
(d)
Current photographs showing existing signs on the premises and
certifying the date on which photographs were taken.
(8)
A permit fee, to be established from time to time by resolution
of the Township, shall be paid.
C.
An application for a sign permit may be denied by the Township if
the application fails to comply with the standards contained herein.
The Township shall inform the applicant of the reasons for denying
the application for sign permit in writing.
D.
Upon denial of an application for a sign permit, the applicant has
30 days to revise and resubmit the application for review by the Township.
In the alternative, the applicant may appeal the denial to the Zoning
Hearing Board in accordance with the requirements of this article.
E.
With the exception of lighting permits for digital signs, sign permits
shall not expire, provided that such signs are not abandoned or destroyed.
In the instance that substantial repair or replacement becomes necessary
(i.e., repairs that cost more than 50% of the replacement cost of
the damaged sign); the organization must apply for a new sign permit,
and pay an additional fee, if required.
A.
Signs legally in existence as of January 23, 2018, which do not conform
to the requirements of this article, shall be considered nonconforming
signs.
B.
All permanent signs and sign structures shall be brought into conformance
with the sign regulations when and if the following occurs:
(1)
The sign is removed, relocated, or significantly altered. Significant
alterations include changes in the size or dimension of the sign.
Changes to the sign copy or the replacement of a sign face on a nonconforming
sign shall not be considered a significant alteration.
(2)
If more than 50% of the sign area is damaged, it shall be repaired
to conform to this article.
(3)
An alteration in the structure of a sign support.
(4)
A change in the mechanical facilities or type of illumination.
(5)
A change in the material of the sign face.
(6)
The property on which the nonconforming sign is located submits
a subdivision or land development application requiring municipal
review and approval.
(7)
The property on which the nonconforming sign is located undergoes
a change of land use requiring the issuance of either a use and occupancy
permit or a change of use and occupancy permit by the Township.
C.
To determine the legal status of existing signs in each of the cases listed in § 143-144B above, the applicant shall submit the following information to the Township Zoning Officer:
(1)
Type(s) of existing sign(s) located on the property.
(2)
The area and height of all signs.
(3)
For freestanding signs, the distance between the curbline or
shoulder and the nearest portion of the sign.
(4)
Type of sign illumination.
(5)
The material of which the sign is constructed.
(6)
The building frontage.
D.
Prior to the events listed in § 143-144B above, nonconforming signs may be repainted or repaired, the sign copy may be changed, and sign faces may be replaced, provided that these actions do not increase the dimensions of the existing sign and do not in any way increase the extent of the sign's nonconformity.
E.
Nonconforming signs shall be exempt from the provisions of § 143-144B under the following conditions:
(1)
The nonconforming sign possesses documented historic value.
(2)
The nonconforming sign is of a unique nature or type by virtue
of its architectural value or design, as determined by the National
Park Service, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, or local
historical commission.
(3)
When a nonconforming sign is required to be moved because of
public right of way improvements.
A.
Signs on the premises of legally nonconforming uses (such as an office
in a residential area) may remain until the existing use of the premises
is discontinued.
B.
If a sign wears out or is damaged (including rust, faded colors,
discoloration, holes, or missing parts or informational items), or
is changed for any other reason, the number, size, and area of all
signs relating to the premises shall not be increased beyond the characteristics
of the sign or signs that existed on that property as of January 23,
2018.
