Any sign erected, altered, or used after the effective date
of this Ordinance shall conform to the following regulations.
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 the Borough of Schwenksville 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:
A.
Setting standards and providing uniform, scientifically-based controls
that permit reasonable use of signs and preserve the character of
the Borough of Schwenksville.
B.
Prohibiting the erection of signs in such numbers, sizes, designs,
illumination, and locations as may create a hazard to pedestrians
and motorists.
C.
Avoiding excessive conflicts from large or multiple signs, so that
permitted signs provide adequate identification and direction while
minimizing clutter, unsightliness, and confusion.
D.
Establishing a process for the review and approval of sign permit
applications.
E.
Ensuring sign design that builds on the traditional town image and
visual environment the Borough seeks to promote.
Words and terms used in this ordinance 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 ordinance, 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 60 days.
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 non-rigid
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 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.
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 (1) footcandle is equal to one (1) 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 (1) foot-lambert is equal to one (1) 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
ordinance, 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 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 non-permanent
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.
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 ordinance.
HALO ILLUMINATIONA sign using a 3-dimensional message, logo, etc., which is lit in such a way as to produce a halo effect. (Also known as back-lit illumination)
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.
Light emitted by a lighting installation, which extends beyond
the boundaries of the property on which the installation is sited.
A non-permanent 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 Ordinance, 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 non-commercial 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 non-commercial 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 non-commercial 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 (Also known as A-frame sign)
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.
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 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
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. 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 § 176-1805.C
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 § 176-1805.D.
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. (Also known as bandit sign)
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.
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 non-permanent, 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. (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 (3) 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 Chapter.
C.
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.
Mechanical movement signs, including moving or revolving signs, or
any sign or object intended to attract attention, which is capable
of free movement or oscillation.
E.
Pennant strings and streamers.
F.
Animated signs, flashing signs, or signs that scroll or flash text
or graphics.
G.
Inflatable devices or balloon signs, with the exception of balloons
used in temporary, non-commercial situations.
H.
Any signs that imitate, resemble, interfere with, or obstruct official
traffic lights, signs, or signals.
I.
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.
J.
Signs which emit smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, sound,
odor or contain open flames.
K.
Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors.
L.
Interactive signs.
M.
Signs incorporating beacon or festoon lighting.
N.
Any banner or sign of any type suspended across a public street,
without the permission of the owner of the property and road.
O.
Roof signs.
P.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with
the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or
federal government.
Q.
Any sign containing information which states or implies that a property
may be used for any purpose not permitted under the provisions of
the Schwenksville Zoning Ordinance.
R.
Signs that exhibit statements, words, or pictures of obscene or pornographic
subjects as determined by the Borough.
S.
Any sign that promotes illegal activity.
T.
Signs which incorporate digital displays or message center signs,
as defined herein.
U.
Off-premises signs.
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. Signs
exempt from a sign permit shall still comply with all applicable standards
in the PA Uniform Construction Code, and shall require a building
permit when applicable.
A.
Official traffic signs.
B.
Government/regulatory signs.
C.
Signs inside a building, or other enclosed facility, which are not
meant to be viewed from the outside, and are located greater than
three (3) feet from the window.
D.
Holiday and seasonal decorations.
E.
Personal expression signs of any sign type, including flags, provided
that they do not exceed three (3) sq. ft. in area per side, are non-commercial
in nature, and not illuminated.
F.
Address signs - Up to two (2) signs stating address, number and/or
name of occupants of the premises and do not include any commercial
advertising or other identification.
G.
Public signs - Signs erected or required by government agencies or
utilities, including but not limited to traffic, utility, safety,
railroad crossing, and identification or directional signs for public
facilities.
H.
Signs or emblems of a religious, civil, philanthropic, historical
or educational organization that do not to exceed one (1) sq. ft.
in area.
I.
Private drive signs - One (1) sign per driveway entrance, not to
exceed two (2) sq. ft. in area.
J.
Security and warning signs - These limitations shall not apply to
the posting of conventional "no trespassing" signs in accordance with
state law.
K.
Flags:
1.
Location. Flags and flagpoles shall not be located within any right-of-way.
2.
Height. Flags shall have a maximum height of 30 ft.
3.
Size. Maximum flag size is six (6) sq. ft. in residential districts,
35 sq. ft. in all other districts. Notwithstanding the previous sentence,
the flags of the United States or of any American state may be displayed
without limitation as to size, subject to Federal and State law governing
their display.
4.
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.
Legal notices.
M.
Vending machine signs.
N.
Memorial signs, public monument or historical identification sign
erected by the Borough, including plaque signs up to three (3) sq.
ft. in area.
O.
Signs which are a permanent architectural feature of a building or
structure, existing at the time of adoption of this ordinance.
P.
Incidental signs, including incidental window signs.
1.
Such signs may be permitted to be internally illuminated, provided
that such sign is no greater is one (1) square foot and further provided
that only one internally illuminated incidental sign shall be permitted
per tenant.
Q.
Directional signs, provided they do not contain any commercial messaging.
R.
Art and murals, provided such signs do not contain any commercial
messaging.
S.
Signs located on any property for sale or rent, provided that no
single sign shall exceed sixteen (16) square feet and four (4) feet
in height, and provided that such signs shall be removed within ten
(10) days of sale or leasing of property.
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.
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 non-corrosive fastenings; shall be structurally
safe and erected or installed in strict accordance with the PA 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, provided each of the following conditions
is satisfied:
a.
Only one (1) 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 degrees, and the two faces are
not more than 18 inches apart at any point.
b.
Where the faces are not equal in size, but the interior angle
formed by the faces is less than 45 degrees and the two faces are
not more than 18 inches apart at any point, the larger sign face shall
be used as the basis for calculating sign area.
c.
When the interior angle formed by the faces is greater than
45 degrees, or the faces are greater than 18 inches 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.
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 100 feet from 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.
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.
1.
Signs may be illuminated, unless otherwise specified herein, provided
they are consistent with the following standards:
a.
Location. The summary table below (§ 176-1805.F.5.)
provides detailed information about what types of illumination are
permitted in each zoning district.
b.
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.
c.
No more than 0.2 foot-candle of light shall be detectable at
the boundary of any abutting property.
d.
Hours of Operation:
I.
No signs on non-residential properties shall be illuminated
more than 1/2 hour before the time at which the premises is open to
the public, nor shall they be illuminated more than 1/2 hour past
the time at which the premises is closed to the public, or 10:00 pm,
whichever is later.
II.
Signs shall be provided with an automatic timer to comply with
the intent of this Section.
2.
Types of Illumination.
a.
External: Externally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
I.
The source of the light must be concealed by translucent covers.
II.
External illumination shall be by a steady, stationary light
source, shielded and directed solely at the sign. The light source
must be static in color.
III.
Halo illumination, or back-lit illumination, shall
be a permitted type of external illumination, when specifically permitted
in the particular district.
b.
Internal: Internally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
I.
Internally illuminated signs shall be permitted by conditional
use only in the following districts: VC-1 Village Commercial District,
VC-2 Village Commercial District, C Commercial District, IN Institutional
District, and MI Manufacturing Industrial District. Internal illumination
shall be limited to the letters and logos of a sign only.
II.
Internal illumination, including neon lighting, must be static
in intensity and color, and shall have no intermittent or flashing
illumination.
III.
Signs using internal illumination shall be designed
so that when illuminated at night, only the letter and logos of the
sign are visible. No light shall emanate through the background, the
borders, sides, or any other surface of the sign or its supporting
structure. Individual solid letters with internal lighting tubs which
backlight a wall in a halo effect (i.e. halo illumination, as defined
herein) shall be permitted.
IV.
Notwithstanding the prohibition of signs incorporating festoon
lighting in § 176-1803.M above, festoon lighting which outline
rooflines, doors, windows, signs or wall edges shall be permitted
year-round, provided the lighting consists of single string, white
bulbs and stationary, non-flashing illumination. Lights must be constantly
maintained, i.e., burned-out bulbs must be replaced immediately.
3.
Electrical Standards.
a.
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.
b.
All work shall be completed in full compliance with the Borough
Electrical Code as set forth in the PA Uniform Construction Code.
c.
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.
d.
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 Borough as a condition precedent to the issuance of a sign
permit.
4.
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.
5.
Illumination Standards by District. (see next page)
|
District
|
Illumination Type
|
Hours of Illumination
| |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Internal
|
External
| ||
|
Residential
|
N
|
Y
|
N/A
|
|
Institutional
|
CU
|
Y
|
6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour past close of business
|
|
Village Commercial
|
CU
|
Y
|
6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour past close of business
|
|
General Commercial & Industrial
|
CU
|
Y
|
6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour past close of business
|
|
Temporary Signs*
|
N
|
N
|
N/A
|
|
Portable Signs*
|
N
|
N
|
N/A
|
|
Y=Permitted by right
|
|
N=Not permitted
|
|
CU=Permitted only by conditional use, provided the conditions
of § 176-1805.F.2.b are satisfied
|
|
* Temporary, and portable signs are subject to the illumination
regulations governing temporary and portable signs, rather than the
illumination standards governing the specific district where the sign
is located.
|
A.
Wall Signs.
1.
No portion of a wall sign shall be mounted less than eight (8) feet
above the finished grade or extend out more than twelve (12) inches
from the building wall on which it is affixed. If the wall sign projects
less than three (3) inches from the building wall on which it is affixed,
the eight-foot height requirement need not be satisfied.
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.
4.
Sign Placement.
a.
Letters or numerals shall be located only on the front and side
vertical faces of the awning or canopy.
b.
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.
5.
Sign Height.
a.
The lowest edge of the canopy or awning sign shall be at least
eight (8) 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 (4) 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 signs shall project more than four (4)
feet from the face of the building.
2.
The outermost portion of a projecting sign shall not project into
the vehicle right of way.
3.
Sign Height. The lowest edge of a projecting sign shall be at least
eight (8) feet above the finished grade.
D.
Window Signs.
1.
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.
E.
Marquee Signs.
F.
Freestanding Signs.
1.
The lowest edge of any freestanding pole sign shall be either less
than four (4) feet or greater than seven (7) feet above the ground.
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 (5) feet from
the right-of-way, except for official traffic signs and 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.
A.
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 sub-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 non-commercial
signs.
B.
Size and Number.
1.
Non-Residential Zones: Limited Duration Signs: One (1) limited duration
sign is permitted per property in all non-residential zones. If a
property is greater than five (5) acres in size and has at least 400
feet of street frontage or has more than 10,000 square feet of floor
area, one (1) additional small sign may be permitted.
2.
Residential Zones: Limited Duration Sign: One (1) limited duration
sign is permitted per property.
C.
Permit Requirements.
1.
A permit for a limited duration sign is issued for one (1) year and
may be renewed annually.
2.
One (1) sign is allowed per permit. An applicant may request up to
two (2) permits per address, but is subject to the size and number
requirements set forth in this section.
3.
An application for a limited duration sign permit must include:
a.
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;
b.
A schematic drawing of the site showing the proposed location
of the sign in relation to nearby building and streets;
c.
The number of signs on the site.
D.
Installation and Maintenance.
1.
All limited duration signs must be installed such that in the opinion
of the Borough building official, they do not create a safety hazard.
2.
All limited duration signs must be made of durable materials and
shall be well-maintained.
3.
Limited duration signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are
no longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
E.
Illumination: Illumination of any limited duration sign is prohibited.
F.
Summary Table for Limited Duration Signs.
|
Limited Duration Signs
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Non-Residential Districts
|
Residential Districts
| |
|
Limited Duration Signs (max area 6 sq. ft.)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
ft. of frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area.
Height: Maximum 4 ft.
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 4 ft.
|
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 sub-section shall
not be included in the determination of the type, number, or area
of signs allowed on a property.
A.
Unless otherwise stated below, the requirements listed below shall
apply to both commercial and non-commercial signs.
B.
Size and Number.
1.
Non-Residential Districts: Temporary Signs: One temporary sign is
permitted per property in all non-residential districts. If a property
is greater than five (5) acres in size and has at least 400 feet of
street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area, one (1)
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.
Residential Districts: Temporary Signs: One (1) temporary sign is
permitted per residential property.
C.
Duration and Removal.
1.
Temporary signs may be displayed up to a maximum of 30 consecutive
days, two (2) times per year.
2.
The Borough or the property owner may confiscate signs installed
in violation of this chapter. Neither the Borough nor the property
owner is responsible for notifying sign owners of confiscation of
an illegal sign.
D.
Permission: The party posting the temporary sign is solely responsible
for obtaining the permission of the property owner before posting
their temporary sign.
E.
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.
Installation and Maintenance.
1.
All temporary signs must be installed such that in the opinion of
the Borough's building official, they do not create a safety hazard.
2.
All temporary signs must be made of durable materials and shall be
well-maintained.
3.
Temporary signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are no longer
legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
G.
Illumination: Illumination of any temporary sign is prohibited.
H.
Summary Table for Temporary Signs.
|
Temporary Signs
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Non-Residential Districts
|
Residential Districts
| |
|
Temporary Signs (max area: 6 sq. ft.)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
ft. of street frontage, or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area.
Height: Maximum 4 ft.
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 4 ft.
|
A.
B.
Sandwich Board or A-frame Signs. Sandwich board signs that comply
with the requirements in this sub-section shall not be included in
the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on
a property.
1.
Number: One (1) sandwich board sign is permitted per establishment.
A business that is adjacent to the Perkiomen Trail is permitted to
have one additional sandwich board or A-Frame sign at the rear of
the building, provided that the sign is set back at least 4 feet from
the trail. For the purposes of this subsection, a parking garage or
parking lot shall be considered an establishment.
2.
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of seven (7) sq. ft. per
sign face.
3.
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height of three (3) feet.
4.
Sign Placement.
a.
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.
b.
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.
c.
Portable signs shall be weighted, temporarily secured, or strategically
placed so as to avoid being carried away by high winds; however, no
sign shall be chained, tied or otherwise affixed to any building,
structure, object or tree.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 176-1804, Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the R1, R2, TH, GA and RC Residential Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and in § 176-1805 through § 176-1809.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1807. Regulations by Sign Type (Limited Duration Signs).
B.
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1808. Regulations by Sign Type (Temporary Signs).
D.
Freestanding signs for residential developments or apartment buildings
containing more than ten units shall be permitted subject to the following
regulations.
E.
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 (sq. ft.)
|
Home Occupations: 2
|
Home Occupations: 2
Residential Developments: 15
|
|
Maximum Height
|
The eaveline or the bottom of the second story window sill,
whichever is lower.
|
Home Occupations: 2 ft.
Residential Developments: 7 ft. for Apts., 3.5 feet for SFDs
|
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 176-1804, Exempt Signs, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the IN Institutional District, subject to the conditions specified here and in § 176-1805 through § 176-1809.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1807, Regulations by Sign Type (Limited Duration signs).
B.
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1808, Regulations by Sign Type (Temporary Signs).
C.
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1809, Regulations by Sign Type (Portable Signs).
D.
Signs associated with a residential use or parcel within an institutional district shall comply with § 176-1810, Signs in Residential Districts. Freestanding signs for institutional uses shall be permitted subject to the following regulations.
E.
Freestanding signs located on the interior of the site used to identify
facilities, on-site traffic direction, hours of operation, and other
information, as well as banners placed on privately-owned streetlights
or poles, are exempt from sign permit requirements, subject to the
following:
F.
G.
Summary Table for Signs in Institutional Districts.
|
Institutional Districts
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Wall, Awning/Canopy, Projecting, and Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum Number
|
1 of any per building
|
1 per street frontage
|
|
Maximum Area
|
10% of the total facade area directly facing a public street
or parking lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 30 sq. ft. No single
canopy or awning sign shall exceed 24 sq. ft.
|
24 sq. ft.
|
|
Maximum Height
|
The eaveline
|
4 feet
|
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 176-1804, Exempt Signs, from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the VC-1 and VC-2 Village Commercial Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and in § 176-1805 through § 176-1809.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1807, Regulations by Sign Type (Limited Duration signs).
B.
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1808, Regulations by Sign Type (Temporary Signs).
C.
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for appropriate uses, as defined and regulated in § 176-1810, Signs in Residential Districts.
D.
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1809. Regulations by Sign Type (Portable Signs).
E.
Two permanent signs of any type provided for in Paragraphs G through
J, provided they are not identical, are permitted on the frontage
of a building, except for Bed and Breakfasts, which are only permitted
one sign. One additional sign is permitted in the rear of any establishment
in the VC-2 district which abuts the Perkiomen Trail. Each individual
tenant on a multiple use property may have an additional sign, as
defined herein.
F.
Only one illuminated sign is permitted per parcel.
G.
Wall signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations.
2.
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline,
the bottom of the parapet wall of principal building or the bottom
of the second story window sill, whichever is lowest.
3.
Illumination: The following illumination types shall be permitted
subject to the regulations in § 176-1805.F, Sign Illumination.
H.
Awning or canopy signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted
subject to the following regulations.
I.
Projecting signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
J.
Window signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
1.
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.
2.
Illumination: These signs shall be non-illuminated.
K.
Freestanding signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted for
multiple tenant buildings only, subject to the following regulations.
1.
Number: One (1) sign per street frontage.
2.
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of fifteen (15) sq. ft.,
plus an additional 5 sq. ft. per tenant, up to a maximum of 25 sq.
ft.
3.
Height: Freestanding signs shall have a maximum height of seven (7)
feet for pole signs, and five (5) feet for monument signs.
L.
Summary Table for Signs in Village Commercial Districts.
|
Village Commercial Districts
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Awning/Canopy
|
Projecting
|
Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum Number
|
2 of any per building, plus one additional on rear of building
abutting Perkiomen Trail in the VC2 District, plus one additional
of any per additional tenant.
|
1 per street frontage
| ||
|
Maximum Area (Individual)
|
Wall: 8 sq ft for B&B 12 sq. ft. all others
Awning/Canopy: No more than 20% of exterior surface of awning/canopy
|
8 sq. ft.
|
15% total window area (permanent signs); 25% total window area
(all signs)
|
15 sq. ft. plus 5 sq. ft. per additional tenant up to 25 sq.
ft.
|
|
Maximum Height
|
The eaveline, the bottom of the parapet wall of principal building
or the bottom of the second story window sill, whichever is lowest.
|
N/A
|
7 ft for pole signs, 5 ft for monument signs
| |
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 176-1804, Exempt Signs, from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the C Commercial and MI Manufacturing and Industrial Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and in § 176-1805 through § 176-1809.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1807, Regulations by Sign Type (Limited Duration signs).
B.
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1808, Regulations by Sign Type (Temporary Signs).
C.
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for the appropriate uses, as defined and regulated in § 176-1810, Signs in Residential Districts.
D.
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 176-1809, Regulations by Sign Type (Portable Signs).
E.
Two permanent signs of any type provided for in Paragraphs G through
J, provided they are not identical, are permitted on the frontage
of a building or, in the case of Paragraph K, per street frontage.
Each individual tenant on a multiple use property may have an additional
sign, as defined herein, provided that a tenant with two street frontages
(i.e. on a corner lot) is permitted one additional sign of those listed
in Paragraphs G through J. Notwithstanding the previous two sentences,
there shall be only one freestanding sign permitted on single-use
lots. Properties with multiple uses are permitted one freestanding
sign per street frontage.
F.
Only one illuminated sign is permitted per parcel.
G.
Wall signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations.
1.
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 10% of square footage
of facade, or 30 sq. ft. per sign face, whichever is lower. For permitted
gas stations, each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet.
2.
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline,
the bottom of the parapet wall of principal building or the bottom
of the second story window sill, whichever is lowest.
3.
Illumination: The following illumination types shall be permitted
subject to the regulations in § 176-1805.F, Sign Illumination.
H.
Awning or canopy signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted
subject to the following regulations.
1.
Area: Sign area shall be no more than 25% of the exterior surface
of an awning or canopy. For permitted gas stations, the area of a
canopy sign shall be no more than 20 square feet.
2.
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline,
the bottom of the parapet wall of principal building or the bottom
of the second story window sill, whichever is lowest. For permitted
gas stations, signs shall have a maximum height of 15 feet above grade
or the eaveline, whichever is lower.
I.
Projecting signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
J.
Window signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
1.
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 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.
2.
Illumination: The following illumination types shall be permitted
subject to the regulations in § 176-1805.F, Sign Illumination.
K.
Freestanding signs for non-residential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
1.
For permitted gas stations, one (1) 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 (2) additional
signs per property.
2.
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of twenty-four (24) for
ground/monument signs, twenty (20) sq. ft. for pole signs, plus an
additional 5 sq. ft. per tenant up to a maximum of forty (40) sq.
ft. For permitted gas stations, each sign shall have a maximum area
of 25 square feet.
3.
Height: Single-use signs, including those for permitted gas stations,
shall have a maximum height of six (6) feet for ground signs, twelve
(12) feet for pole signs. Multiple-use signs shall have a maximum
of seven (7) feet for ground signs, twelve (12) feet for pole signs.
L.
Summary Table for Signs in Commercial and Industrial Districts. (see
next page)
|
Wall and Awning/Canopy
|
Projecting
|
Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum Number
|
2 of any per building, plus additional of any per additional
tenant, except that only one freestanding sign per single-use property
is permitted
1 freestanding multiple-use sign per street frontage
1 additional freestanding sign for permitted gas stations re:
gas prices
| |||
|
Maximum Area (Individual)
|
Wall: 10% of square footage of facade, or 30 sq. ft.; 20 sq.
ft for gas stations
Awning/Canopy: No more than 20% of exterior surface of awning/canopy;
20 sq. ft. for gas stations
|
12 sq. ft.
|
15% total window area (permanent signs); 25% total window area
(all signs)
|
24 sq. ft. for ground signs; 20 sq ft. for pole signs; 25 for
any freestanding sign for gas stations an additional 5 sq. ft. per
tenant up to 40 sq. ft.
|
|
Maximum Height
|
The eaveline, the bottom of the parapet wall of principal building
or the bottom of the second story window sill, whichever is lowest.
|
N/A
|
6/7 ft. for single-use/multiple-use ground signs; 12 ft. for
pole signs
| |
A.
Unsafe or Unlawful Signs.
1.
Upon written notice by the Borough, 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 Borough
to be a nuisance, or it is deemed unsafe by the Borough, or it is
unlawfully erected in violation of any of the provisions of this Article.
2.
The Borough 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 thirty (30) days of the date of the notice. In the event
of immediate danger, the Borough 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 the Borough 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 Borough may file a lien upon the property for the purpose
of recovering all reasonable costs associated with the removal of
the sign.
A.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect, alter, repair, or relocate any sign within the Borough without first obtaining a sign permit, unless the sign is specifically exempt from the permit requirements as outlined in § 176-1804, Exempt Signs.
B.
In order to apply for a sign permit, the applicant must provide the
following information, in writing, to the Borough:
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 the activities occurring on the site where the sign
will be installed.
5.
Description of any existing signage that will remain on the site.
6.
Identification of the type of sign(s) to be erected by the applicant.
7.
Site plan depicting the locations of proposed signage and existing
remaining signage.
8.
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.
9.
A permit fee, to be established from time to time by Resolution of
the Borough, shall be paid.
C.
The Borough shall have ten (10) business days from the receipt of
a complete application to review the application.
D.
A permit shall be issued on or before the end of the ten (10) business
day review period if the application for a new sign or renewal complies
with the regulations contained herein.
E.
If the Borough does not issue a determination within the ten (10)
business day period, the sign permit is deemed approved.
F.
An application for a sign permit may be denied by the Borough within
the ten (10) business day review period if the application fails to
comply with the standards contained herein. The Borough shall inform
the applicant of the reasons for denying the application for sign
permit by certified mail.
G.
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 Borough. In the alternative, the applicant may also appeal
the decision of the Borough to the Zoning Hearing Board within the
30 business day time period. The Zoning Hearing Board at its next
regularly scheduled meeting, shall review the Borough's denial of
the application.
H.
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 costs 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 at the time of the adoption of this Ordinance,
which do not conform to the requirements of this Ordinance, shall
be considered nonconforming signs.
B.
All permanent signs and sign structures shall be brought into conformance
with this Article when and if any of 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 Ordinance.
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 Borough.
C.
To determine the legal status of existing signs in each of the cases
listed in § 176-1816.B., the applicant shall submit the
following information to the Borough 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 § 176-1816.B, nonconforming
signs may be repainted or repaired up to 50% of the replacement cost
of the sign, 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
non-conformity.
E.
Nonconforming signs shall be exempt from the provisions of § 176-1816.B,
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.
F.
All nonconforming temporary signs, portable signs, and banners must
be permanently removed within 90 days of the effective date of this
Article, unless specific approval is granted as provided for herein.
A.
Signs on the premises of legally nonconforming uses may remain until
the existing use of the premises is discontinued.
B.
If a sign wears out or is damaged (including but not limited to 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 Article was adopted.
Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter to the contrary,
to the extent that this Chapter allows a sign containing commercial
copy, it shall allow a non-commercial sign to the same extent. The
non-commercial message may occupy the entire sign area or any portion
thereof, and may substitute for or be combined with the commercial
message. The sign message may be changed from commercial to non-commercial,
or from one noncommercial message to another, as frequently as desired
by the sign's owner, provided that the sign is not prohibited and
the sign continues to comply with all requirements of this Chapter.
The placement of a sign that requires a sign permit without
a sign permit shall be unlawful. Violations of this Ordinance shall
be treated as strict liability offences regardless of intent. Violators
shall be fined a daily fee per sign displayed in violation of this
Ordinance. The fee amount shall be established from time to time by
Resolution of Borough Council.
