[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
The purpose and intent of this Part is to implement an overall
plan and program for public safety, economic and community development
and the general welfare of Kingston Township. This Part shall control
and promote the erection of signs which preserve the wholesome, attractive
character of the Township; preserve and protect property values; preserve
the architectural character and environment of the Township; avoid
the uncontrolled proliferation of signs; encourage and support business
activity through reasonable standards for advertising signs; and avoid
undue concentrations of signs, which distract and endanger traffic
safety.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Chapter 19 (Signs) of the Code of Ordinances of the Township of Kingston and all parts thereof, including Part 1 (General Provisions), Part 2 (Township Sign Regulations), and Part 3 (Administration and Enforcement), as enacted by Kingston Township Ordinance No. 1981-9, effective August 12, 1981, and as amended by Kingston Township Ordinance No. 1993-4, effective November 10, 1993, are hereby repealed in their entirety.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
Words and terms used in this Part shall have the meanings given
herein. Unless expressly stated otherwise, any pertinent word or term
not part of this listing, but vital to the interpretation of this
Part, shall be construed to have its legal definition, or in absence
of a legal definition, its 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 "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. The two types of changeable-copy signs are manual
changeable copy signs and electronic changeable copy signs, which
include: message center signs, digital displays, and Tri-Vision boards.
A sign consisting of fabricated or formed three-dimensional
letters, individually applied to a wall, which may accommodate a light
source.
The distance above the walkway, or other surface if specified,
to the bottom edges 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.
Artificial 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.
A type of illumination comprised of either:
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 time when in use and which exhibits changes in
light, color, direction, or animation. This definition does not include
electronic message center signs or digital displays that meet the
requirements set forth herein.
A unit of emitted light (from a surface) stated in lumens
per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, also known
as a footcandle or light meter. One foot-lambert is equal to one lumen
per square foot.
A unit of incident light (on a surface) stated in lumens
per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, also known
as a footcandle or light meter. One footcandle 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 "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
Part, gas station canopy signs shall be considered wall signs.
Any sign for the control of traffic or for identification
purposes, street 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 public officer, employee
or agent thereof in the discharge of official duties.
A sign using a three-dimensional message, logo, etc., which
is lit in such a way as to produce a halo effect (also known as "backlit
illumination").
A district or zone designated by a local, state, or federal
government, within which buildings, structures, and/or appurtenances
are deemed important because of their association with history, or
because of their unique architectural style and scale.
Signs or displays, including lighting, which are a nonpermanent
installation celebrating national, state, and local holidays, religious
or cultural holidays, or other holiday seasons (also known as "seasonal
decorations").
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.
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's 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.
A 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 Part.
The physical attributes of a sign that allow for an observer's
differentiation of its letters, words, numbers, or graphics.
Light emitted by a lighting installation which extends beyond
the boundaries of the property on which the installation is sited.
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/ft2).
A 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.
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 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 permanent sign for displaying the bill of fare available
at a restaurant, or other use serving food or beverages.
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 freestanding sign used to advertise businesses that occupy
a shopping center or complex with multiple tenants.
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 illuminated by a neon tube, or other visible light-emanating
gas tube, that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other graphics.
A sign that was legally erected and maintained at the effective
date of this Part, or amendment thereto, that does not currently comply
with sign regulations of the 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 "third-party sign," "billboard," or "outdoor advertising").
Official highway route number signs, street name signs, directional
signs, and other traffic signs erected and maintained on public highways
and roads in the interest of public safety or for the regulation of
traffic.
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 triangular or irregular piece of fabric or other material,
commonly attached in strings or strands, or supported on small poles,
intended to flap in the wind.
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.
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 (also known as "blade sign").
A sign erected or required by government agencies or utilities,
including traffic, utility, safety, railroad crossing and identification
signs for public facilities.
A sign containing any material or device which has the effect
of intensifying reflected light.
A sign which revolves in a circular motion, rather than remaining
stationary on its supporting structure.
A building-mounted sign erected upon, against, or over the
roof of a building.
A type of freestanding, portable, temporary sign consisting
of two faces connected and hinged at the top and whose message is
targeted to pedestrians (also known as "A-frame sign").
A sign contained within an athletic venue and intended solely
to provide information to the attendees of an athletic event.
An on-premises sign regulating the use of the premises, such
as a "no trespassing," "no hunting" or "no soliciting" sign (also
known as "warning sign").
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
a shields, barn doors, baffles, louvers, skirts, or visors.
Any device, structure, fixture, painting, emblem, or visual
that uses words, graphic, colors, illumination, symbols, numbers,
or letters for the purpose of communicating a message. 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 § 106, Subsection
4, 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 § 106, Subsection 5.
Poles, posts, walls, frames, brackets, or other supports
holding a sign in place.
A sign tacked, nailed, posted, 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 (also known as "bandit sign").
The exterior facade of a building housing a commercial use
visible from a street, sidewalk or other pedestrianway accessible
to the public and containing the primary entrance to the commercial
establishment.
A display made of lightweight, flexible materials, consisting
of long, narrow, wavy strips hung individually or in a series, with
or without a logo or advertising message printed or painted on them
and typically designed to move in the wind.
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. 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 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.
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 (also known as "fascia sign," "parallel wall sign" or
"band 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.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
The following signs are unlawful and prohibited:
A.Â
Abandoned signs.
B.Â
Snipe Signs. Signs shall only be attached to utility poles in conformance
with state and utility regulations and the requirements of this Part.
C.Â
Vehicular Signs. This regulation does not include the use of business
logos, identification or advertising on vehicles primarily and actively
used for business purposes and/or personal transportation.
D.Â
Mechanical movement signs, including revolving signs.
E.Â
Pennant strings and streamers.
F.Â
Animated signs, flashing signs, or signs that scroll or flash text
or graphics.
G.Â
Inflatable devices or balloons signs, with the exception of balloons
used in temporary, noncommercial situations.
H.Â
Any signs that imitate, resemble, interfere with, or obstruct official
traffic lights, signs, or signals.
I.Â
Signs which prevent free ingress or egress from any door, window,
or 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.
J.Â
Signs which emit smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, sound,
or odor or contain open flames.
K.Â
Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors.
L.Â
Interactive signs.
M.Â
Signs incorporating beacon or festoon lighting.
N.Â
Any banner or sign of any type suspended across a public street,
without the permission of the owner of the property and road.
O.Â
Roof signs.
P.Â
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with
the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or
federal government.
R.Â
Signs that exhibit statements, words, or pictures of obscene or pornographic
subjects as determined by the Township of Kingston.
S.Â
Any sign that promotes illegal activity.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
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 within a zoning district, provided such
signs comply with the regulations in this section, if any:
A.Â
Official traffic signs.
B.Â
Government/regulatory signs.
C.Â
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 the window.
D.Â
Holiday and seasonal decorations.
E.Â
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.
F.Â
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.
G.Â
Public signs: signs erected or required by government agencies or
utilities, including traffic, utility, safety, railroad crossing,
and identification or directional signs for public facilities.
H.Â
Signs or emblems of a religious, civil, philanthropic, historical
or educational organization that do not to exceed four square feet
in area.
I.Â
Private drive signs: one sign per driveway entrance, not to exceed
two square feet in area.
J.Â
Security and warning signs: These limitations shall not apply to
the posting of conventional "no trespassing" signs in accordance with
state law.
K.Â
Flags:
(1)Â
Location. Flags and flagpoles shall not be located within any
right-of-way.
(2)Â
Height. Flags shall have a maximum height of 30 feet.
(3)Â
Number. No more than two flags per lot in residential districts;
no more than three flags per lot in all other districts.
(4)Â
Size. Maximum flag size is 24 square feet in residential districts;
35 square feet in all other districts.
(5)Â
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 signs on the property.
L.Â
Legal notices.
M.Â
Vending machine signs.
N.Â
Memorial signs, public monuments or historical identification signs
erected by the Township of Kingston, including plaque signs up to
three square feet in area.
O.Â
Signs which are permanent architectural feature of a building or
structure, existing at the time of adoption of this Part.
P.Â
Signs advertising the variety of crops growing in a field. Such signs
shall be removed after the growing season.
Q.Â
Incidental signs, including incidental window signs.
S.Â
Art and murals, provided such signs do not contain any commercial
messaging.
T.Â
Temporary signs in accordance with § 110, Regulations by
Sign Type: Temporary Signs.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Sign Location.
A.Â
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.
B.Â
No sign may occupy a sight triangle.
C.Â
Signs and their supporting structures shall maintain clearance and
noninterference with all surface and underground utility and communications
lines or equipment.
2.Â
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.
3.Â
Sign Area.
A.Â
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.
B.Â
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.
C.Â
Signs may be double-sided.
(1)Â
On-Premises Signs.
(a)Â
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.
(b)Â
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.
(c)Â
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.
(2)Â
Off-Premises Signs.
(a)Â
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.
(b)Â
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.
(c)Â
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.
D.Â
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.
E.Â
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.
F.Â
The permitted maximum area for all signs is determined by the sign
type and the zoning district in which the sign is located. (See §§ 113
through 118.)
4.Â
Sign Height.
A.Â
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 case of a sign located greater than 100 feet from a public
street, height shall be measured to the mean grade at the base of
the sign.
B.Â
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.
C.Â
The permitted maximum height for all signs is determined by the sign
type and the zoning district in which the sign is located. (See §§ 113
through 118.)
5.Â
Sign Spacing. The spacing between sign structures shall be measured
as a straight-line distance between the closest edges of each sign.
6.Â
Sign Illumination.
A.Â
Signs may be illuminated, unless otherwise specified herein, consistent
with the following standards:
(1)Â
Location. The summary table (§ 106, Subsection 6G) provides detailed information about what types of illumination are permitted in each zoning district.
(2)Â
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.
(3)Â
No more than 0.2 footcandle of light shall be detectable at
the boundary of any abutting property.
(4)Â
Hours of Operation:
(5)Â
Brightness: Message center signs and digital displays are subject
to the following brightness limits.
(a)Â
During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset, luminance
shall be no greater than 5,000 nits.
(b)Â
At all other times, luminance shall be no greater than 250 nits.
(c)Â
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.
(6)Â
Message Duration: The length of time each message may be displayed
on a message center sign, digital display, or Tri-Vision board sign
is based upon the visibility and speed limit unique to individual
signs and adjacent road conditions. The following method should be
used to calculate message duration for message center signs, digital
displays, or Tri-Vision board signs.
(a)Â
Determine the greatest distance from which the sign becomes
visible on the road the sign is primarily intended to serve. If a
sign is intended to be seen by more than one roadway, the road with
the lower posted speed limit shall be used for determining message
duration.
(b)Â
Multiply the road's posted speed limit (mph) by 5,280 and
then divide by 3,600 to obtain the speed limit in feet per second.
(c)Â
Divide the visibility distance by the speed limit (feet per
second).
(d)Â
Add an additional 10% of this number to the total.
(e)Â
The resulting amount of time is the minimum permitted message
duration, except where this value is less than eight seconds, in which
case the minimum message duration shall be no less than eight seconds.
B.Â
Types of Illumination: Where permitted, illumination may be:
(1)Â
External: Externally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
(2)Â
Internal: Internally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
C.Â
Message center signs are subject to the following regulations, in
addition to all other illumination requirements established in this
section.
(1)Â
Sign Type: Message center signs are permitted in the form of
freestanding, monument, and wall signs, both on-premises and off-premises,
in accordance with the regulations established in §§ 107
and 108.
(2)Â
Height: A message center sign shall have the same height limits
as other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(3)Â
Area:
(a)Â
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.
(b)Â
When used as an off-premises sign, message center signs may
be used for the full permitted sign area.
(4)Â
Maximum Number: Where permitted, one message center sign is
permitted per street frontage, up to a maximum of two message center
signs per property.
(5)Â
Message Display:
(a)Â
No message center sign may contain text which flashes, pulsates,
moves, or scrolls. Each complete message must fit on one screen.
(b)Â
The content of a message center sign must transition by changing
instantly (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
(c)Â
Default Design: The sign shall contain a default design which
shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should
occur.
(6)Â
Conversion of a permitted non-message-center sign to a message
center sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 121,
Permits and Applications.
(7)Â
The addition of any message center sign to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(8)Â
Public Service Announcements: The owner of every message center
sign shall 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.
D.Â
Digital display signs are subject to the following regulations in
addition to all other requirements established by this section:
(1)Â
Sign Type: Digital displays are permitted in the form of freestanding,
monument, and wall signs, both on-premises and off-premises, in accordance
with the regulations established in §§ 107 and 108.
(2)Â
Height: A digital display shall have the same height limits
as for other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(4)Â
Maximum Number per Property: Where permitted, one digital display
sign is permitted per property.
(5)Â
Message Display:
(a)Â
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.
(b)Â
One message/display may be brighter than another, but each individual
message/display must be static in intensity.
(c)Â
The content of a digital display must transition by changing
instantly, with no transition graphics (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
(d)Â
Default Design: The sign shall contain a default design which
shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should
occur.
(6)Â
Conversion of a permitted nondigital sign to a digital sign
requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 121, Permits
and Applications.
(7)Â
The addition of any digital display to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(8)Â
Public Service Announcements: The owner of every digital sign
shall 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.
E.Â
Electrical Standards.
(1)Â
Permits for illuminated signs will not be issued without an
approved electrical permit, if required. Applications for electrical
permits shall be filed at the same time as the sign permit application.
(2)Â
All work shall be completed in full compliance with the Township
of Kingston Electric Code as set forth in the Pennsylvania Uniform
Construction Code.
(3)Â
The electrical supply to all exterior signs, whether to the
sign itself or to lighting fixtures positioned to illuminate the sign,
shall be provided by means of concealed electrical cables. Electrical
supply to freestanding signs shall be provided by means of underground
cables.
(4)Â
The owner of any illuminated sign shall arrange for a certification
showing compliance with the brightness standards set forth herein
by an independent contractor and provide the certification documentation
to the Township of Kingston as a condition precedent to the issuance
of a sign permit.
F.Â
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.
G.Â
Illumination Standards by District.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: The Illumination Standards by District Table is included as an attachment to this chapter.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Wall Signs.
A.Â
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.
2.Â
Canopy or Awning Signs.
A.Â
A canopy or awning without lettering or other advertising shall not
be regulated as a sign.
B.Â
Canopy or awning signs must be centered within or over architectural
elements such as windows or doors.
C.Â
No awning or canopy sign shall be wider than the building wall or
tenant space it identifies.
D.Â
Sign Placement.
(1)Â
Letters or numerals shall be located only on the front and side
vertical faces of the awning or canopy.
(2)Â
Logos or emblems are permitted on the top or angled portion
of the awning or canopy up to a maximum of three square feet. No more
than one emblem or logo is permitted on any one awning or canopy.
E.Â
Sign Height.
(1)Â
The lowest edge of the canopy or awning sign shall be at least
eight feet above the finished grade.
F.Â
Any ground-floor awning projecting into a street right-of-way must
be retractable.
G.Â
Awnings above the ground floor may be fixed, provided they do not
project more than four feet from the face of the building.
H.Â
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.
3.Â
Projecting Signs.
A.Â
No portion of a projecting sign shall project more that four feet
from the face of the building.
B.Â
The outermost portion of a projecting sign shall project no closer
than five feet from a curbline or shoulder of a public street.
C.Â
Sign Height. The lowest edge of a projecting sign shall be at least
eight feet above the finished grade.
4.Â
Window Signs.
A.Â
Incidental window signs displaying pertinent business information,
such as the business hours of operation and credit cards accepted,
shall be excluded from area calculations for window signs.
5.Â
6.Â
Freestanding Signs.
A.Â
The lowest edge of any freestanding pole sign shall be either less
than four feet or greater than seven feet above the ground.
B.Â
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.
C.Â
Sign Placement.
(1)Â
All freestanding signs shall be set back five feet from the
right-of-way, except for official traffic signs and government/regulatory
signs.
(2)Â
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.
7.Â
Manual Changeable-Copy Signs: Manual changeable-copy signs are permitted
only when integrated into a freestanding, marquee, wall, or portable
sign.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
2.Â
Sign Size: An off-premises advertising sign is subject to the following
size restrictions according to the posted speed limit of the road
which the off-premises sign faces.
|
Posted Speed Limit
(mph)
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
<35
|
36-45
|
46-55
|
56-65
|
Limited Access
| |
|
Maximum Sign Area
(square feet)
|
60
|
100
|
150
|
200
|
300
|
4.Â
Spacing. Off-premises signs shall be:
A.Â
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.
B.Â
Located no closer than 25 feet from any property line.
C.Â
Located no closer than 50 feet from any building, structure, or on-premises
sign located on the same property.
D.Â
Located no closer than 1,500 feet from another off-premises sign
on either side of the road, measured linearly.
E.Â
Located no closer than 500 feet from any intersection, or interchange
(on/off-ramp).
F.Â
Located no closer than 1,000 feet from any property line abutting
a public park, playground, religious institution, cemetery, school,
or residential district.
G.Â
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.
H.Â
Not located on sewer rights-of-way, or water, electric, or petroleum
pipelines.
I.Â
Not located on a bridge.
5.Â
Number of Signs Per Lot: There shall be no more than one off-premises
sign per lot. Vertically or horizontally stacked signs shall not be
permitted.
6.Â
Content: Off-premises signs shall not display any message or graphic
of an obscene or pornographic nature as determined by the Township
of Kingston.
7.Â
Double-sided Off-Premises Signs: Signs may be single- or double-sided, in accordance with § 106, Subsection 3, Sign Area.
8.Â
Message Sequencing: Message sequencing is prohibited.
9.Â
Construction and Maintenance.
A.Â
All plans for off-premises signs shall be certified by a licensed
engineer registered in Pennsylvania.
B.Â
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.
C.Â
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 of Kingston.
D.Â
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 of Kingston a certificate
certifying that the billboard is structurally sound.
10.Â
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.
11.Â
Landscaping.
A.Â
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.
B.Â
Trees greater than four inches in diameter removed for construction
of the sign shall be replaced on site at a ratio of one replacement
tree for each removed tree using native species no less than three
inches in diameter.
12.Â
Additional Regulations. All off-premises signs shall comply with
any and all applicable zoning regulations of the Township of Kingston,
and any and all 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.
13.Â
Application/Plan Requirements. Plans submitted for off-premises advertising
signs shall show the following:
A.Â
The location of the proposed sign on the lot with the required sign
setbacks from the property line and ultimate right-of-way.
B.Â
The location and species of existing trees.
C.Â
The distance to the nearest existing off-premises advertising sign.
D.Â
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.
F.Â
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.
14.Â
Illumination and Changeable Copy of Off-Premises Signs.
A.Â
Off-premises signs may incorporate manual changeable-copy signs.
B.Â
Off-premises signs may be illuminated, provided that:
D.Â
Off-premises signs may incorporate Tri-Vision boards.
(1)Â
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.
The message duration for Tri-Vision boards shall be calculated using
the method described in § 106, Subsection 6A(6), Message
Duration.
15.Â
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 matter and
location that it is proposed and in the manner by which it is to be
operated.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Limited-duration signs, as defined in this section, located on private
property are subject to the regulations set forth below. Limited-duration
signs that comply with the requirements in this subsection 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.
2.Â
Size and Number.
A.Â
Nonresidential Zones:
(1)Â
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.
(2)Â
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.
B.Â
Residential Zones:
(1)Â
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.
(2)Â
Small Limited-Duration Sign: One small limited-duration sign
is permitted per property.
3.Â
Permit Requirements.
A.Â
A permit for a limited-duration sign is issued for one year and may
be renewed annually.
B.Â
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.Â
An application for a limited-duration sign permit must include:
(1)Â
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)Â
A schematic drawing of the site showing the proposed location
of the sign in relation to nearby building and streets;
(3)Â
The number of signs on the site.
4.Â
Installation and Maintenance.
A.Â
All limited-duration signs must be installed such that, in the opinion
of the Township of Kingston Building Official, they do not create
a safety hazard.
B.Â
All limited-duration signs must be made of durable materials and
shall be well maintained.
C.Â
Limited-duration signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are
no longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
5.Â
Illumination: Illumination of any limited-duration sign is prohibited.
6.Â
Summary Table for Limited-Duration Signs.
|
Limited-Duration Signs
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Nonresidential Districts
|
Residential Districts
| |
|
Large limited-duration signs (maximum area 16 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property
is 5+ acres with 400 + feet of street frontage or has > 10,000 square
feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 8 feet
|
Number:1 per property if property is
5+ acres with 400+ feet of street frontage or has > 10,000 square
feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 8 feet
|
|
Small limited-duration signs (maximum area 6 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property
is 5+ acres with 400+ feet of frontage or has > 10,000 square feet
of floor area
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Temporary signs, as defined in this section, located on private property,
are exempt from standard permit requirements. Temporary signs that
comply with the requirements in this section shall not be included
in the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed
on a property.
A.Â
Unless otherwise stated below, the requirements listed below shall
apply to both commercial and noncommercial signs.
B.Â
Size and Number.
(1)Â
Nonresidential Districts:
(a)Â
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)Â
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
greater 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.
(2)Â
Residential Districts:
(a)Â
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)Â
Small Temporary Signs: One small temporary sign is permitted
per residential property.
C.Â
Duration and Removal.
(1)Â
Temporary signs may be displayed up to a maximum of 30 consecutive
days, two times per year.
(2)Â
The Township of Kingston or the property owner may confiscate
signs installed in violation of this Part. Neither the Township of
Kingston nor the property owner is responsible for notifying sign
owners of confiscation of an illegal sign.
D.Â
Permission: The party posting the temporary sign is solely responsible
for obtaining the permission of the property owner before posting
their temporary sign.
E.Â
Municipal Notification: Temporary signs are exempt from the standard
permit requirements, but the date of erection of a temporary sign
must be written in indelible ink on the lower right-hand corner of
the sign.
F.Â
Installation and Maintenance.
(1)Â
All temporary signs must be installed such that in the opinion
of the Township of Kingston's Building Official, they do not
create a safety hazard.
(2)Â
All temporary signs must be made of durable materials and shall
be well maintained.
(3)Â
Temporary signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are no
longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
G.Â
Illumination: Illumination of any temporary sign is prohibited.
H.Â
Summary Table for Temporary Signs.
|
Temporary Signs
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Nonresidential Districts
|
Residential Districts
| |
|
Large temporary signs (maximum area: 32 square feet for banner,
16 square feet for all other signs)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property
is 5+ acres with 400+ feet of street frontage, or has > 10,000 square
feet of floor area
Height:
Ground: Maximum 8 feet
Banner: Maximum 24 feet
|
Number: 1 per property if property is
5+ acres with 400+ feet of street frontage or has > 10,000 square
feet of floor area
Height:
Ground: Maximum 8 feet
Banner: Maximum 24 feet
|
|
Small temporary signs (maximum area: 6 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property
is 5+ acres with 400+ feet of street frontage, or has > 10,000 square
feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
2.Â
Sandwich-Board or A-Frame Signs. Sandwich-board signs that comply
with the requirements in this subsection shall not be included in
the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on
a property.
A.Â
Number: One sandwich-board sign is permitted per establishment. For
the purposes of this subsection, a parking garage or parking lot shall
be considered an establishment.
B.Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of seven square feet per
sign face.
C.Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height of 3.5 feet.
D.Â
Sign Placement.
(1)Â
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)Â
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 subsection, a public entrance includes a
vehicular entrance into a parking garage or parking lot.
(3)Â
Portable signs shall be weighted, temporarily secured, or strategically
placed so as to avoid being carried away by high winds.
F.Â
Vehicular Signs: Vehicular signs are subject to the regulations found
in the Township of Kingston's Vehicle Code.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
General Provisions. Street pole banner signs that comply with the
requirements in this subsection shall not be included in the determination
of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
A.Â
Illumination: Illumination of any street pole banner is prohibited.
B.Â
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.
C.Â
Height:
(1)Â
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 finished grade.
(2)Â
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 finished grade.
D.Â
Location.
(1)Â
No street pole banner shall extend beyond the curbline.
(2)Â
Street pole banners shall maintain a minimum of three-foot vertical
clearance below any luminaires located on the pole measured from where
the ballasts connect to the poles.
(3)Â
Street pole banners shall not interfere with the visibility
of traffic signals or signs.
(4)Â
No street pole banner shall be located on a pole that has traffic
or pedestrian control signals.
2.Â
Permit Requirements.
A.Â
A permit for a street pole banner is issued for one year and may
be renewed annually.
B.Â
An application for a street pole banner permit must include the following:
(1)Â
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)Â
A proof of the street pole banner design, including the banner's
dimensions.
(3)Â
If brackets are to be installed, submit specifications for the
bracket installation system.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 105, Signs
Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of
signs may be erected in the {Insert names of applicable agricultural/rural/open
space districts}, subject to the conditions specified here and in
§§ 107 through 110.
A.Â
Any limited-duration sign as defined and regulated in § 109,
Regulations by Sign Type: Limited-Duration Signs.
B.Â
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 110, Regulations
by Sign Type: Temporary Signs.
C.Â
Signs associated with a residential use or parcel within an agricultural/rural
zone shall comply with § 114, Signs in Residential Districts.
D.Â
Parks and Open Space.
(1)Â
(2)Â
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:
(3)Â
Signs for recreation and sporting facilities shall be allowed,
provided that the following criteria is met:
(a)Â
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.
(b)Â
One freestanding scoreboard, not to exceed 200 square feet in
area and 20 feet in height, is permitted per playing field.
E.Â
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
F.Â
Wall and projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted,
subject to the following regulations:
(1)Â
Number: One sign per tenant per building frontage up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant.
(2)Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet
per sign face.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever is lower.
(4)Â
Illumination: These signs shall be nonilluminated.
H.Â
Off-premises signs (where/if permitted) are subject to the regulations
found in § 108, Regulations by Sign Type: Off-Premises.
I.Â
Summary Table for Signs in Agricultural, Rural, and Open Space Districts.
|
Agricultural, Rural, and Open Space Districts
| |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Projecting
|
Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Nonresidential uses: 1 per tenant per building frontage, up
to a maximum of 2 signs per tenant
|
N/A
|
Parks and open space: 1 per street access plus 1 freestanding
scoreboard per playing field
Nonresidential uses: 1 per street access up to a maximum of
2 signs per lot
|
|
Maximum area (square feet)
|
Parks and open space: signs on the interior walls or fence of
an open stadium: 24
Nonresidential uses: 20
|
Nonresidential uses: 15% of total window area
|
Parks and open space: 24 (entrance), 200 (scoreboard), 10 (signs
interior to the site)
Nonresidential uses: 32
|
|
Maximum height
|
Nonresidential uses: the eaveline or the bottom of the second-story
windowsill, whichever is lower
|
N/A
|
Parks and open space: 10 feet (entrance), 20 feet (scoreboard),
8 feet (signs interior to the site)
Nonresidential uses: 6 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 105. Signs
Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of
signs may be erected in the {insert names of applicable residential
districts}, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 107
through 112.
A.Â
Any limited-duration sign as defined and regulated in § 109,
Regulations by Sign Type: Limited-Duration Signs.
B.Â
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 110, Regulations
by Sign Type: Temporary Signs.
D.Â
Freestanding signs for residential developments or apartment buildings
containing more than 10 units shall be permitted, subject to the following
regulations:
E.Â
Summary Table for Signs in Residential Districts.
|
Residential Districts
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Projecting
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Home occupations: 1 per lot
|
Home occupations: 1 per lot
Residential developments: 1 per lot
|
|
Maximum area (square feet)
|
Home occupations: 2
|
Home occupations: 6
Residential developments: 15
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever
is lower
|
Home occupations: 6 feet
Residential developments: 8 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 109, Exempt
Signs, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected for
institutional uses, including schools, religious institutions, municipal
buildings, hospitals, clubs, or permitted uses of a similar nature,
subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 107
through 112.
A.Â
Any limited-duration sign as defined and regulated in § 109,
Regulations by Sign Type: Limited-Duration Signs.
B.Â
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 110, Regulations
by Sign Type: Temporary Signs.
C.Â
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 111, Regulations
by Sign Type: Portable Signs.
D.Â
Any street pole banner as defined and regulated in § 112,
Regulations by Sign Type: Street Pole Banners.
E.Â
Signs associated with a park or open space use in an institutional
district shall comply with § 113, Subsection 1D.
F.Â
Signs associated with a residential use or parcel within an institutional
district shall comply with § 114, Signs in Residential Districts.
G.Â
Freestanding signs for institutional uses, other than parks and open
space, shall be permitted, subject to the following regulations.
H.Â
Freestanding signs located on the interior of the site used to identify
facilities, on-site traffic direction, hours of operation, and other
information are exempt from permit requirements, subject to the following:
I.Â
Building signs, including wall signs, awning or canopy signs, projecting
signs, and window signs, are permitted for institutional uses. The
total maximum sign area of all building signs shall be based on the
lot size of the property and wall area of the building as follows:
J.Â
Optional: Upper-level building identification signs shall be permitted,
subject to the following regulations.
(1)Â
Number: Two signs per building.
(2)Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 200 square feet.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height of 10 feet and shall
not extend vertically beyond the eaveline.
(4)Â
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.
K.Â
Summary Table for Signs in Institutional Districts.
|
Institutional Districts
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall, Awning/Canopy, Projecting, and Window
|
Freestanding
|
Optional: Building Identification
| ||
|
Maximum Number
|
N/A
|
1 per street access, up to 2 per lot
|
2 per building
| |
|
Maximum Area
|
Lots < 2 acres
|
5% of the total wall face area of walls that directly face a
public street or parking lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 24
square feet.
|
24 square feet
|
200 square feet
|
|
Lots > 2 and <5 acres
|
6% of the total wall face area of walls that directly face a
public street or parking lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 36
square feet.
|
40 square feet
| ||
|
Lots > 5 acres
|
7% of the total wall face area of walls that directly face a
public street or parking lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 60
square feet.
|
60 square feet
| ||
|
Maximum Height
|
The eaveline
|
10 feet
|
The eaveline
| |
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 105, Signs
Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of
signs may be erected in the {insert names of applicable Main Street
districts}, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 107
through 112:
A.Â
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for the appropriate
uses, as defined and regulated in § 114, Signs in Residential
Districts.
B.Â
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 111, Regulations
by Sign Type: Portable Signs.
C.Â
Any street pole banner as defined and regulated in § 112,
Regulations by Sign Type: Street Pole Banners.
D.Â
The total area of all wall, awning/canopy, and projecting signs shall
be limited to two 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.Â
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject to
the following regulations:
(1)Â
Number: One sign per tenant per street frontage, up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant. Where a property has entrances facing both
a street and a parking lot, an additional sign is permitted to face
the parking lot.
(2)Â
Area: No single wall sign shall exceed 24 square feet in area.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever is lower.
F.Â
Awning or canopy signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted,
subject to the following regulations:
(1)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever is lower.
G.Â
Projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
(1)Â
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)Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 12 square feet
per sign face.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever is lower.
H.Â
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
(1)Â
Area: A maximum of 15% of the total window area of any single
storefront may be used for permanent signs that are etched, painted
or otherwise permanently affixed to the window. A maximum of 25% of
the total window area of any single storefront may be covered by a
combination of permanent and temporary window signs.
I.Â
Marquee signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations.
J.Â
Summary Table for Signs in Main Street Districts.
|
Main Street Districts
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Awning/Canopy
|
Projecting
|
Window
|
Marquee
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Wall: 1 per tenant per street frontage (up to 2 per tenant)
Awning/Canopy: N/A
(See § 107)
|
1 per ground-floor establishment, plus 1 per building entrance
serving tenants without a ground-floor entrance
|
N/A
|
1 per building
|
|
Maximum area (total)
|
2 square feet per linear foot of building frontage facing a
public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size limitations
based on sign type
|
N/A
|
N/A
| |
|
Maximum area (individual)
|
Wall: 24 square feet
Awning/Canopy: N/A
(See § 107)
|
12 square feet
|
15% of total window area (permanent signs); 25% total window
area (all signs)
|
150 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever
is lower
|
N/A
|
The eaveline
| |
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 105. Signs
Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following number and types of
signs may be erected in the {insert names of applicable Village Commercial
districts}, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 107
through 112:
A.Â
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for appropriate uses,
as defined and regulated in § 114, Signs in Residential
Districts.
B.Â
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 111, Regulations
by Sign Type: Portable Signs.
C.Â
Any street pole banner as defined and regulated in § 112,
Regulations by Sign Type: Street Pole Banners.
D.Â
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.Â
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject to
the following regulations:
(1)Â
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)Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 12 square feet
per sign face.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever is lower.
G.Â
Projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
(1)Â
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)Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 10 square feet
per sign face.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second-story windowsill, whichever is lower.
(4)Â
Illumination: These signs shall be nonilluminated.
H.Â
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations.
I.Â
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
(1)Â
Number: One sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(2)Â
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)Â
Height: Freestanding signs shall have a maximum height of 10
feet.
J.Â
Summary Table for Signs in Village Commercial Districts.
|
Village Commercial Districts
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Awning/Canopy
|
Projecting
|
Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Wall: 1 per tenant per street frontage (up to 2 per tenant)
Awning/Canopy: N/A (See § 107)
|
1 per ground-floor establishment, plus 1 per building entrance
serving tenants without a ground-floor entrance
|
N/A
|
1 per street frontage, up to 2 per lot
|
|
Maximum area (total)
|
1.5 square feet per linear foot of building frontage facing
a public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size limitations
based on sign type
|
N/A
|
N/A
| |
|
Maximum area (individual)
|
Wall: 12 square feet
Awning/Canopy: N/A
(See § 107)
|
10 square feet
|
15% total window area (permanent signs); 25% total window area
(all signs)
|
15 square feet plus 5 square feet per additional tenant up to
30 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline
|
N/A
|
10 feet
| |
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Except as noted below, the following numbers and types of signs may
be erected in any industrial district or the {insert names of the
applicable commercial zoning districts}, subject to the conditions
specified here and in §§ 107 through 112:
A.Â
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for the appropriate
uses, as defined and regulated in § 114, Signs in Residential
Districts.
B.Â
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 111, Regulations
by Sign Type: Portable Signs.
C.Â
Any street pole banner as defined and regulated in § 112,
Regulations by Sign Type: Street Pole Banners.
D.Â
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.Â
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject to
the following regulations:
(1)Â
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)Â
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 32 square feet
per sign face.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline.
F.Â
Awning or canopy signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted,
subject to the following regulations:
G.Â
Projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
(1)Â
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)Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet
per sign face.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline.
H.Â
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
(1)Â
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.Â
Marquee signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations:
J.Â
In addition to building signs, freestanding signs for nonresidential
uses shall be permitted, subject to the following regulations:
(1)Â
Number: One sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(a)Â
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)Â
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)Â
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)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height of 20 feet.
K.Â
Optional: Upper-level building identification signs shall be permitted,
subject to the following regulations:
(1)Â
Number: One sign per building.
(2)Â
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 200 square feet.
(3)Â
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height of 10 feet and shall
not extend vertically beyond the eaveline.
(4)Â
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.
L.Â
Off-premises signs shall be permitted, subject to the regulations
detailed in § 108, Regulations by Sign Type: Off-Premises.
M.Â
Summary Table for Signs in Commercial and Industrial Districts.
|
General Commercial and Industrial Districts
| ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Awning/Canopy
|
Projecting
|
Window
|
Marquee
|
Freestand- ing
|
Optional: Upper-Level Building Identifi-
cation
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Wall: 1 per tenant per street frontage (up to 2 per tenant)
Awning/Canopy: N/A (see § 107)
|
1 per ground-floor establishment, plus 1 per building entrance
serving tenants without a ground-floor entrance
|
N/A
|
1 per building
|
1 per street frontage, up to 2 per lot (additional signs allowed
for gas stations and drive-through establish- ments)
|
1 per building (> 3 stories high)
|
|
Maximum area (total)
|
1.5 square feet per linear foot of building frontage facing
a public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size limitations
based on sign type
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
| |
|
Maximum area (individual)
|
Wall: 32 square feet
Awning/Canopy: N/A (see § 107)
|
20 square feet
|
25% total window area (permanent signs); 35% (all signs)
|
200 square feet
|
50 square feet plus an additional 10 square feet per tenant
up to 100 square feet
|
200 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline
|
N/A
|
The eaveline
|
20 feet
|
The eaveline
| |
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
In addition to all other requirements of this Part, the following
regulations shall be applicable to any sign placed in a designated
historic district:
A.Â
No sign shall be erected or altered until an application has been
reviewed and approved by the {Review Board} and after the Township
of Kingston has issued a certificate of appropriateness.
B.Â
Installation must not damage or require removal of historic materials
and must be done in a manner such that signs can be removed without
harm to the masonry or architectural detailing.
D.Â
Permit Requirements.
(1)Â
All applications for a certificate of appropriateness must contain
the following information:
(a)Â
A current color photograph of the property.
(b)Â
An illustration of the building facade showing the proposed
sign.
(c)Â
A scaled drawing showing the sign itself and including the size,
materials, colors, lighting, lettering, and method of attachment.
Material samples may be required.
(d)Â
For ground signs, a site plan indicating the location of the
sign.
(e)Â
The type of illumination.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Unsafe or Unlawful Signs.
A.Â
Upon written notice by the Township of Kingston, the owner, person,
or firm maintaining a sign shall remove the sign when it becomes unsafe,
is in danger of falling, or it becomes so deteriorated that it no
longer serves a useful purpose of communication, or it is determined
by the Township of Kingston to be a nuisance, or it is deemed unsafe
by the Township of Kingston, or it is unlawfully erected in violation
of any of the provisions of this Part.
B.Â
The Township of Kingston may remove or cause to be removed the sign
at the expense of the owner and/or lessee in the event that the owner
or 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 of Kingston may remove the
sign immediately upon the issuance of notice to the owner, person,
or firm maintaining the sign.
2.Â
Abandoned Signs.
A.Â
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.
B.Â
Where the owner of the property on which an abandoned sign is located
fails to remove such sign within 180 days, the Township of Kingston
may remove such sign. Any expense directly incurred in the removal
of such sign shall be charged to the owner of the property. Where
the owner fails to pay, the Township of Kingston may file a lien upon
the property for the purpose of recovering all reasonable costs associated
with the removal of the sign.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect,
alter, repair, or relocate any sign within the Township of Kingston
without first obtaining a sign permit, unless the sign is specifically
exempt from the permit requirements as outlined in § 105,
Exempt Signs.
2.Â
In order to apply for sign permit, the applicant must provide the
following information, in writing, to the Township of Kingston:
A.Â
Name of organization and location.
B.Â
Name, address and telephone number of the property owner, and the
signature of the property owner or duly authorized agent for the owner.
C.Â
Contact person and contact information.
D.Â
Description of the activities occurring on the site where the sign
will be installed.
E.Â
Description of any existing signage that will remain on the site.
F.Â
Identification of the type of signs(s) to be erected by the applicant.
G.Â
Site plan depicting the locations of proposed signage and existing
remaining signage.
H.Â
Two copies of a plan, drawn to scale, depicting:
(1)Â
Lot dimensions, building frontage, and existing cartways, rights-of-way
and driveways.
(2)Â
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.
(3)Â
Building elevations, existing and proposed facades, parapet
walls, eaveline and the location and size of all proposed and existing
permanent signage.
(4)Â
Current photographs showing existing signs on the premises and
certifying the date on which photographs were taken.
I.Â
If the sign is located in an historic district, confirmation that
an application has been submitted to the Historic Architectural Review
Board (if applicable).
J.Â
A permit fee, to be established from time to time by resolution of
the Township of Kingston, shall be paid.
3.Â
The Township of Kingston shall have 10 business days from the receipt
of a complete application to review the application.
4.Â
A permit shall be issued on or before the end of the ten-business-day
review period if the application for a new sign or renewal complies
with the regulations contained herein.
5.Â
If the Township of Kingston does not issue a determination within
the ten-business-day period, the sign permit is deemed approved.
6.Â
An application for a sign permit may be denied by the Township of
Kingston within the ten-business-day review period if the application
fails to comply with the standards contained herein. The Township
of Kingston shall inform the applicant of the reasons for denying
the application for a sign permit by certified mail.
7.Â
Upon denial of an application for a sign permit, the applicant has
30 business days to revise and resubmit the application for review
by the Township of Kingston. In the alternative, the applicant may
also appeal the decision of the Township of Kingston to the governing
body within the thirty-business-day time period. The Township of Kingston,
at its next regularly scheduled meeting, shall review its denial of
the application.
8.Â
With the exception of lighting permits for digital signs, these 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.
9.Â
Optional: All illuminated signs shall require certification in order to demonstrate continued compliance with the brightness requirements set forth in § 106, Subsection 6, Sign Illumination. This certification must be renewed every three years. This will allow the Township of Kingston to adjust standards as needed based on changing technology and evaluation of impacts. The Township of Kingston reserves the right to assess the brightness of any sign at any time to ensure compliance with illumination requirements.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Signs legally in existence at the time of the adoption of this Part
which do not conform to the requirements of this Part shall be considered
nonconforming signs.
2.Â
All permanent signs and sign structures shall be brought into conformance
with the sign regulations when and if the following occurs:
A.Â
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.
B.Â
If more than 50% of the sign area is damaged, it shall be repaired
to conform to this Part.
C.Â
An alteration in the structure of a sign support.
D.Â
A change in the mechanical facilities or type of illumination.
E.Â
A change in the material of the sign face.
F.Â
The property on which the nonconforming sign is located submits a
subdivision or land development application requiring municipal review
and approval.
G.Â
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 of
Kingston.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
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.
2.Â
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 at the time this
Part was adopted.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
1.Â
Prosecution of Violation of Ordinance.
A.Â
Any person failing to comply with a notice of violation or order
served in accordance herewith shall be subject to a criminal action
brought by the Township of Kingston before a District Justice under
the provisions of the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure relating
to a summary offense. Further, if the notice of violation or order
is not complied with, the Township of Kingston may institute appropriate
proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such
violation of the provisions of this Part.
B.Â
The rights and remedies provided hereby are cumulative and are in
addition to any other remedies provided by law.
C.Â
Nothing herein shall be interpreted to limit the authority of the
Township of Kingston to revoke any approval previously granted due
to any violations of this Part, which right is expressly reserved.
D.Â
Any sign which is erected, altered or converted in violation of any
provision of this Part is declared to be a public nuisance per se,
and it may be abated by an order of a court of competent jurisdiction.
2.Â
Penalties for Violations. Any person or entity who shall violate a provision of this Part or fail to comply therewith or with any of the requirements thereof shall be prosecuted for the commission of a summary offense in the manner more particularly provided in Subsection 1 hereof. The District Justice may levy criminal fines not to exceed $1,000 per violation upon the conviction of the person or entity of the summary offense so charged. Each day that a violation continues, after due notice has been served, shall be deemed a separate offense.
3.Â
Removal of Prohibited Advertising Devices. In addition to the penalties
prescribed in this Part, the Township may institute any appropriate
action or proceeding after 30 days' written notice of a violation
of this Part to the person or persons maintaining or allowing to be
maintained such sign, to prevent, restrain, correct or abate a violation
or to cause the removal of any sign erected or maintained in violation
of the provisions of this Part, or the Township may have any such
sign corrected or removed by its employees. In the event of such removal,
the person or persons responsible for the erection or maintenance
of such sign and the person or persons allowing such sign to be maintained
shall be liable to the Township for the cost of removal or correction
of such sign. Further, such cost of removal shall be collected, if
unpaid, by the imposition of a municipal claim or lien entered in
favor of the Township of Kingston against such person or persons.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
The provisions of this Part shall not affect any suit or prosecution
pending or to be instituted to enforce any of the prior ordinances
and regulations except as otherwise provided by law.
[Ord. No. 2018-5, 12/12/2018]
It is hereby declared to be the intention of the Board of Supervisors
of the Township of Kingston that the chapters, parts, sections, paragraphs,
sentences, clauses or phrases of this Part are severable. If any section,
paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this Part is declared unconstitutional,
illegal or otherwise invalid by the judgment or decree of a court
of competent jurisdiction, that invalidity shall not affect any of
the remaining chapters, parts, sections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses
or phrases of this codification.
