[Amended 5-1-1995 by Ord.
No. 95-1; 5-3-1999 by Ord. No. 99-2; 3-3-2003 by Ord. No. 2003-2; 5-2-2005 by Ord. No. 2005-4; 9-15-2008 by Ord. No. 2008-1; 6-20-2011 by Ord. No.
2011-4; 3-5-2012 by Ord. No. 2012-3; 3-16-2020 by Ord. No. 2020-03]
Any sign erected, altered, or maintained after the effective
date of this article shall conform to the following regulations.
The purpose of this article is to develop a comprehensive system
of sign regulations to:
A.
Promote the safety of persons and property by providing that signs:
(1)
Do not create traffic hazards by distracting or confusing motorists,
or impairing motorist's ability to see pedestrians, other vehicles,
obstacles or to read traffic signs.
(2)
Do not create a hazard due to collapse, fire, collision, decay
or abandonment.
(3)
Do promote the aesthetic quality, safety, health, and general
welfare and the assurance of protection of adequate light and air
within the Township by regulation of the posting, displaying, erection,
use and maintenance of signs.
B.
Promote the efficient transfer of information through the use of
signs and to permit such use, but not necessarily in the most profitable
form or format available for such use.
C.
Protect the public welfare and enhance the overall appearance and economic value of the landscape, while preserving the unique natural and historic environment that distinguishes the Township and consistent with Article I, § 27, of the Pennsylvania Constitution.
D.
Set standards and provide uniform controls that permit reasonable
use of signs and preserve the character of Westtown Township.
E.
Prohibit the erection of signs in such numbers, sizes, designs, illumination,
and locations as may create a hazard to pedestrians and motorists.
F.
Avoid excessive conflicts from large or multiple signs, so that permitted
signs provide information while minimizing clutter, unsightliness,
and confusion.
G.
Establish a process for the review and approval of sign permit applications.
H.
Address billboard signs in the C-2 District along Route 202.
Words and terms used in this article shall have the meanings
given in this section. Unless expressly stated otherwise, any pertinent
word or term not part of this listing, but vital to the interpretation
of this article, shall be construed to have 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.
Any permanent or temporary structure or part of a structure,
or any device attached, represented, projected or applied by paint
or otherwise, or any structure or other surface used to communicate
information, a message or advertisement, or to attract the attention
of the public to a subject or location. The term "sign" shall include,
but not be limited to, flat or curved surfaces, all support and/or
assembly apparatus, flags, banners, streamers, pennants, insignias
and medals with or without words or pictures. Signs on vehicles shall
be subject to the provisions of this chapter when the vehicle is owned
and located or parked on or in front of a lot under the control of
an occupant of the lot.
The following shall not be defined as signs under this chapter:
Any surface not exceeding one square foot in area that is required
by a federal, state, county or municipal law or regulation, or by
the United States Post Office to identity a property by number, post
box number or name(s) of occupants of the property.
Flags and insignia of any municipal, state or federal government.
Legal notices, identification information, or wayfinding information
provided by governmental or legislative authorities.
Integral, decorative or architectural features of buildings.
Actual produce and merchandise displayed for sale that appear
in store windows.
Grave markers of all types.
Memorial markers.
Sign types and definitions:
ABANDONED SIGNA sign which has not been used to provide information for a period of at least 180 days.
ANIMATED SIGNA sign that incorporates action, motion, or light or color changes through electrical or mechanical means.
AWNINGA 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.
AWNING SIGNAny sisgn painted on, or applied to, an awning.
BALLOON SIGNA sign painted on or affixed to a lighter-than-air, gas-filled balloon.
BANNERAny 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.
BEACON LIGHTINGAny source of electric light, whether portable or fixed, the primary purpose of which is to cast a concentracted 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.
BILLBOARDAn outdoor sign with a sign area that is between 60 square feet and 300 square feet.
BUILDING FRONTAGEThe maximum linear width of a building measured in a single straight line parallel, or essentially parallel, with the abutting public street or parking lot.
CANOPYA 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.
CANOPY SIGNAny sign that is part of, or attached to, a canopy.
CHANGEABLE COPY SIGNA 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.
CHANNEL LETTER SIGNA sign consisting of fabricated or formed three-dimensional letters, individually applied to a wall, which may accommodate a light source.
CLEARANCEThe 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.
DIGITAL DISPLAYThe portion of a sign face 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.
FESTOON LIGHTINGA type of illumination comprised of either: a) a group of 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.
FLAGAny sign or image printed or painted on cloth, plastic, canvas, or other like material attached to a pole or staff and anchored along only one edge or supported or anchored at only two corners.
FLASHING SIGNA sign whose artificial illumination is not kept constant in intensity at all times when in use and which exhibits changes in light, color, direction, or animation. This definition does not include electronic message center signs or digital displays that meet the requirements set forth herein.
FREESTANDING SIGNA 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.
GAS STATION CANOPYA freestanding, open-air structure constructed for the purpose of shielding service station islands from the elements.
GAS STATION CANOPY SIGNAny sign that is part of, or attached to, the vertical sides of the gas station canopy roof structure. For the purposes of this article, gas station canopy signs shall be considered wall signs.
GOVERNMENT SIGNAny sign constructed and/or installed by a federal, state, county or municipal government or authorized unit or department thereof.
ILLUMINATED SIGNA 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.
ILLUMINATIONA source of any artificial or reflected light, either directly from a source of light incorporated within, or indirectly from an artificial source.
EXTERNAL ILLUMINATIONArtificial light, located away from the sign, which lights the sign, the source of which may or may not be visible to persons viewing the sign from any street, sidewalk, or adjacent property.
INTERNAL ILLUMINATIONA light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. Message center signs, digital displays, and signs incorporating neon lighting shall not be considered internal illumination for the purposes of this article.
HALO ILLUMINATIONA sign using a three-dimensional message, logo, etc., which is lit in such a way as to produce a halo effect (also known as "backlit illumination").
INCIDENTAL WINDOW SIGNSigns displayed in the window of a commercial, retail or other business establishment, which are no larger than one square foot individually or three square feet in the aggregate.
INFLATABLE SIGNA 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 flow of air into the device.
INTERACTIVE SIGNAn electronic or animated sign that reacts to the behavior or electronic signals of motor vehicle drivers.
LIMITED DURATION SIGNA nonpermanent sign that is displayed on private property for more than 30 days, but not longer than one year.
MANUAL CHANGEABLE COPY SIGNA sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols are changed manually through placement or drawing of letters or symbols on a sign face.
MARQUEEA permanent structure, other than a roof or canopy, attached to, supported by, and projecting from a building.
MARQUEE SIGNAny sign attached to a marquee.
MECHANICAL MOVEMENT SIGNA 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.
MENU SIGNA permanent sign not greater than 32 square feet located at, on or in the window of a restaurant, or other use serving food, or beverages.
MESSAGE CENTER SIGNA type of illuminated, changeable copy sign that consists of electronically changing text located on a lot with a gas station or an athletic field.
MESSAGE SEQUENCINGThe spreading of one message across more than one sign structure.
MULTI-TENANT SIGNA freestanding sign located on lot on which a shopping center or complex with multiple tenants is located.
MURAL (or MURAL SIGN)A large picture/image which is painted, constructed, or affixed directly onto a vertical building wall, which may or may not contain text, logos, and/or symbols.
NEON SIGNA sign illuminated by a neon tube, or other visible light-emanating gas tube, that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other graphics.
NONCONFORMING SIGNA sign that was legally erected and maintained at the effective date of this article, or amendment thereto, that does not currently comply with sign regulations of the district in which it is located.
PENNANTA 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.
PERMANENT SIGNA sign attached, affixed or painted 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.
PORTABLE SIGNA 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 (also known as "A-frame sign").
VEHICULAR SIGNA sign affixed to a vehicle located on the same lot as a business and which sits or is otherwise not incidental to the vehicle's primary purpose.
PRIVATE DRIVE SIGNA sign located at an intersection of a street or drive which is not publicly owned and maintained and used only for access by the occupants of the property and their guests.
PROJECTING SIGNA 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").
PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAYThe area between the outer edge of a paved street, road or highway and the closer of an abutting property line or a line parallel to such outer edge to be measured from the center line of such street, road or highway to the following distance:
PUBLIC SIGNA sign erected or required by government agencies or utilities.
REFLECTIVE SIGNA sign containing any material or device which has the effect of intensifying reflected light.
REVOLVING SIGNA sign which revolves in a circular motion; rather than remaining stationary on its supporting structure.
ROOF SIGNA building-mounted sign erected upon, against, or over the roof of a building.
SCOREBOARDA sign contained within an athletic venue.
SECURITY SIGNA sign located on a premises on which no trespassing, hunting, and/or soliciting are permitted (also known as "warning sign").
SHIELDEDThe 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.
SIGN FACEThe part of the sign that is or can be used for the sign area. The sign area could be smaller than the sign face.
SIGN HEIGHTThe vertical dimension of a sign as measured using the standards in § 170-1805D.
SIGN SUPPORTING STRUCTUREPoles, posts, walls, frames, brackets, or other supports holding a sign in place.
SNIPE SIGNA sign tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued, or otherwise attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences, 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").
STOREFRONTThe 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.
STREAMERSA display made of lightweight, flexible materials, consisting of long, narrow, wavy strips hung individually or in a series and typically designed to move in the wind.
STREET FRONTAGEThe side or sides of a lot abutting on a public street or right-of-way.
STREET POLE BANNERA banner suspended above a public street or right-of-way, sidewalk and/or parking area and attached to a single street pole.
TEMPORARY SIGNA nonpermanent sign that is located on private property that can be displayed for no more than 30 consecutive days at one time.
URBAN EXPERIENTIAL DISPLAYS (UEDs)An outdoor sign that projects its message in three-dimensional (3-D) space.
WALL SIGNA 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").
WINDOW SIGNAny 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.
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.
Mechanical movement signs, including revolving signs.
D.
Pennant strings and streamers, except when located inside a stadium,
arena, or temporary fairground during a special event.
E.
Animated signs, urban experiential displays, flashing signs, or signs
that scroll or flash text or graphics.
F.
Inflatable devices or balloon signs, with the exception of balloons
used in temporary situations.
G.
Signs which interfere with, imitate, or resemble any public sign,
signal, or device within 75 feet of a public right-of-way or within
200 feet of a traffic control device, whichever is greater.
H.
Any signs located within a public right-of-way and/or which obscure
or interfere with the line of sight at any street intersection or
traffic signal, or at any other point of vehicular access to a street.
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 shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape
that creates confusion or interferes with its use and operation.
J.
Signs which emit smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, sound,
odor or contain open flames.
K.
Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors, excluding those as
approved by the Township or PennDOT for traffic use.
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, or any portion thereof, which extends above the roofline
of any building.
P.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with
the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or
federal government.
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. All
owners of such signs must still comply with all applicable standards
of this chapter, including the responsibility for maintenance of signs
in good and safe repair.
A.
Government signs constructed and/or installed by the federal, state,
county or municipal government or an agency or department thereof
and to include the United States Postal Service.
B.
Signs inside a building, or other enclosed facility, which are not
meant to be viewed from the outside, and are located greater than
three feet from the window.
C.
Address signs: Up to two signs required by the federal, state, county or municipal government or a department or agency thereof, including, but not limited to, the United States Post Office, located on the following uses and conforming with the dimensions set forth below as well as the specifications for street address number posting set forth in § 61-5.
D.
Public signs: Signs erected or required by government agencies or
utilities, including those located in the public right-of-way, at
railroad crossings, on buildings that have restrooms, telephones,
or similar public convenience available, but not to exceed two square
feet.
E.
Private drive signs: one sign per driveway entrance, not to exceed
four square feet in area.
F.
Security and warning signs: These limitations shall not apply to
the posting of signs on premises where no trespassing, hunting and/or
soliciting is permitted.
G.
Flags:
(1)
Location. Flags and flagpoles shall not be located within any
right-of-way.
(2)
Height. Flagpoles shall have a maximum height of 30 feet in
all residential districts.
(3)
Number. No more than two flags per lot in residential districts;
no more than three flags per lot in all other districts.
(4)
Size. Maximum flag size is 24 square feet in residential districts.
(5)
Flags 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.
H.
Legal notices.
I.
Permanent architectural features of a building or structure, such
as a cornerstone or carving or embossment on a building, provided
that the letters are not made of a reflective material nor contrast
in color with the building.
J.
Signs within four feet of a crop growing in a field. Such signs shall
not exceed four square feet and shall be removed after the field has
been harvested.
K.
Incidental signs, including incidental window signs when the total
area of any such sign or all signs together does not exceed two square
feet.
L.
Street pole banners, located outside public rights-of-way, interior
to a campus, institutional or commercial use, provided they comply
with the following:
(1)
Area: 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.
(2)
Height:
(a)
When the street pole banner's edge is less than 18 inches from
the curb, the lowest edge of the street pole banner shall be at least
14 feet above the finished grade.
(b)
When the street pole banner's edge is greater than 18 inches
from the curb, the lowest edge of the street pole banner shall be
at least eight feet above the finished grade.
(3)
Location:
(a)
No street pole banner shall extend beyond the curbline.
(b)
Street pole banners shall maintain a minimum of three-foot vertical
clearance below any luminaries located on the pole measured from where
the ballasts connect to the poles.
(c)
Street pole banners shall not interfere with the visibility
of traffic signals or signs.
(d)
No street pole banner shall be located on a pole that has traffic
or pedestrian control signals.
M.
Temporary signs in accordance with § 170-1808, Regulations by sign type (limited duration, temporary and portable signs).
N.
Any canopy or awning, as defined herein, which does not have any
lettering, logos or symbols printed, painted or otherwise affixed
thereto.
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 government street signs or signals by virtue of position or color.
(2)
Except for those classified as exempt under § 170-1804, no sign may be located within any public right-of-way and/or occupy a clear sight triangle of 75 feet (as measured from the center-line intersections of two streets) which shall be provided at all intersections. The minimum clear sight triangle shall be increased to 100 feet if either street is a collector street and to 150 feet if either street is an arterial highway.
[Amended 11-16-2020 by Ord. No. 2020-04]
(3)
Signs and their supporting structures shall maintain clearance
and noninterference with all surface and underground utility and communications
lines or equipment.
B.
Sign materials and construction: Every sign shall be constructed
of durable materials, using noncorrosive fastenings; shall be structurally
safe and erected or installed in strict accordance with the Pennsylvania
Uniform Construction Code; and shall be maintained in safe condition
and good repair at all times, consistent with this section, so that
all sign information is clearly legible.
C.
Sign area.
(1)
The "area of a sign" shall mean the area of all lettering, wording,
and accompanying designs, logos, and symbols. The area of a sign shall
not include any supporting framework, bracing or trim which is incidental
to the display, provided that it does not contain any lettering, wording,
or symbols.
(2)
Where the sign consists of individual letters, designs, or symbols
attached to a building, awning, wall, or window, the area shall be
that of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters,
designs, and symbols.
(3)
Signs may be double-sided.
(a)
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)
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)
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.
(4)
Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more
three-dimensional or irregularly shaped objects, shall have a sign
area of the sum of two adjacent vertical sign faces of the smallest
cube encompassing the sign or object.
(5)
If elements of a sign are movable or flexible, such as a flag
or banner, the measurement is taken when the elements are fully extended
and parallel to the plane of view.
(6)
The permitted maximum area for all signs is determined by the
sign type and the use of the property where the sign is located.
D.
Sign height.
(1)
Sign height shall be measured as the distance from the highest
portion of the sign to the mean finished grade of the street closest
to the sign. In the case of a sign located greater than 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.
(3)
The permitted maximum height for all signs is determined by
the sign type and type and the use of the property where the sign
is located.
E.
Sign spacing: The spacing between sign structures shall be measured
as a straight-line distance between the closest edges of each sign.
F.
Sign illumination.
(1)
Signs may be illuminated, unless otherwise specified herein, consistent with the general standards for outdoor lighting as outlined in § 170-1514 and those listed below:
(a)
Light sources to illuminate signs shall neither be visible from
any street right-of- way, nor cause glare which is hazardous or distracting
to pedestrians, vehicle drivers, or adjacent properties.
(b)
Hours of operation:
[1]
Signs on nonresidential properties may be illuminated
from 6:00 a.m. prevailing time until 11:00 p.m. prevailing time, or
1/2 hour past the close of business of the facility located on the
same lot as the sign, whichever is later.
[2]
Signs shall provide an automatic timer to comply
with the intent of this subsection.
[3]
The above hours of operation standards shall not
apply to a use operating 24 hours a day.
(c)
Brightness: Message center signs and digital displays are subject
to the following brightness limits:
[1]
The illumination of the sign shall be set so as
not to be more than 0.3 footcandle above ambient lighting conditions,
measured using a footcandle meter at 75 feet perpendicular to the
sign's display.
[2]
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 herein.
(d)
Message duration: The length of time each message may be displayed
on a message center sign, digital display, or tri-vision board sign
shall be static and nonanimated and shall remain fixed for a minimum
of 30 seconds.
(e)
Message transition: The length of time when a message is transitioned
on a message center sign, digital display, or tri-vision board sign
shall be accomplished in one second or less with all moving parts
or illumination changing simultaneously and in unison.
(f)
Default design: Any message center sign, digital display, or
tri-vision board shall contain a default design which shall freeze
the sign message in one position if a malfunction should occur or,
in the alternative, shut down.
(2)
Types of illumination: Where permitted, illumination may be:
(a)
External: Externally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
(b)
Internal: Internally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
[1]
Internal illumination, including neon lighting,
must be static in intensity and color.
[2]
Message center signs are permitted in accordance with the regulations contained in § 170-1805F(3).
[3]
Digital displays are permitted in accordance with the regulations contained in § 170-1805F(4).
(3)
Message center signs are subject to the following regulations,
in addition to all other illumination requirements established in
this section.
(b)
Height: A message center sign shall have the same height limits
as other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(c)
Area:
[1]
When used other than as a billboard, message center
signs shall not exceed 50% of the sign area for any one sign, and
shall not exceed more than 30% of the total area for all signs permitted
on a property.
[2]
When used as billboard, message center signs may
be used for the full permitted sign area.
(d)
Maximum number: Where permitted, one message center sign is
permitted per street frontage, up to a maximum of two message center
signs per property.
(e)
Message display:
[1]
No message center sign may contain text which flashes,
pulsates, moves, or scrolls.
[2]
The transition of a message center sign must take
place instantly (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
[3]
Default design: The sign shall contain a default
design which shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction
should occur or, in the alternative, shut down.
(f)
Conversion of a permitted non-message center sign to a message center sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 170-1815.
(g)
The addition of any message center sign to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(4)
Digital display signs are subject to the following regulations
in addition to all other requirements established in this section.
(b)
Height: A digital display shall have the same height limits
as for other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(d)
Maximum number per property: Where permitted, one digital display
sign is permitted per property.
(e)
Message display:
[1]
Any digital display containing animation, streaming
video, or text or images which flash, pulsate, move, or scroll is
prohibited.
[2]
One message/display may be brighter than another, but each individual message/display must be static in intensity and otherwise compliant with § 170-1805F(1)(c).
[3]
The content of a digital display must transition
by changing instantly, with no transition graphics (e.g., no fade-out
or fade-in).
[4]
Default design: The sign shall contain a default
design which shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction
should occur or, in the alternative, shut down.
(f)
Conversion of a permitted nondigital sign to a digital sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 170-1815.
(g)
The addition of any digital display to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(5)
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 Westtown
Township Electrical Code as set forth in the Pennsylvania 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 Westtown Township as a condition precedent to the issuance
of a sign permit.
(6)
Glare control: Glare control shall be achieved primarily through
the use of such means as cutoff fixtures, shields, and baffles, and
appropriate application of fixture mounting height, wattage, aiming
angle, and fixture placement. Vegetation screens shall not be employed
to serve as the primary means for controlling glare.
A.
Wall signs.
(1)
No portion of a wall sign shall be mounted less than 10 feet
above the finished grade or extend out more than eight 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 ten-foot height requirement need not be met.
(2)
More than one sign shall be permitted per wall, except that
the total area of all signs on one wall shall not exceed 10% of the
facade.
(3)
No wall sign shall extend above the top of the wall upon which
it is mounted or beyond the edges of same.
B.
Canopy or awning signs.
(1)
Canopy or awning signs must be centered within or over architectural
elements such as windows or doors.
(2)
No awning or canopy sign shall be wider than the building wall
or tenant space it identifies.
(3)
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.
(4)
Sign height.
(a)
The lowest edge of the canopy or awning sign shall be at least
eight feet above the finished grade.
(5)
Awnings above the ground floor may be fixed, provided they do
not project more than four feet from the face of the building.
(6)
Multi-tenant buildings. If the awning or canopy sign is mounted
on a multi-tenant building, all awning or canopy signs shall be similar
in terms of height, projection, and style across all tenants in the
building.
C.
Projecting signs.
(1)
No portion of a projecting sign shall project more than four
feet from the face of the building.
(2)
The outermost portion of a projecting sign shall not project
into any public right-of-way.
(3)
Sign height. The lowest edge of a projecting sign shall be at
least 10 feet above the finished grade and shall not extend above
the top of the wall upon which it is mounted.
D.
Window signs.
(1)
Incidental window signs shall be excluded from area calculations
for window signs.
(2)
Multiple window signs shall be permitted per building, provided
that all window signs at any one time do not exceed 25% of the total
glass area on the side of the building where they are placed. For
grocery stores, food markets, and pharmacies, the total glass area
covered by window signs shall not exceed 35%.
(3)
Window signs may be internally lit when located on a lot within
a commercial, multiuse or planned office campus zoning district.
E.
F.
Freestanding signs.
(1)
On any tract, the total number of freestanding signs shall not
exceed one per street frontage, regardless of location.
(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 height. Unless otherwise specifically allowed, height standards
for freestanding signs are as follows:
(a)
Ground signs shall have a maximum height of 3.5 feet, except
for those located along Route 202 or Route 3, which shall have a maximum
height of 4.5 feet.
(b)
Pole signs shall have a maximum height of 15 feet. The minimum
distance between the ground surface and the bottom of the sign face
shall be four feet.
(4)
Sign placement.
(a)
All freestanding signs shall be located outside the public right-of-way,
except for government signs. Where compliance with this standard would
nonetheless create an obstruction of view, further setback may be
required.
[Amended 4-4-2022 by Ord. No. 2022-02]
(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.
(c)
All freestanding signs shall be located no closer to any adjacent
residential lot line, public park, church, school, or public playground
than the minimum setback or separation distance required for any other
adjacent structure or building, as regulated by this chapter.
G.
Manual changeable copy signs: Manual changeable copy signs are permitted
only when integrated into a freestanding, marquee, wall, or portable
sign.
B.
Sign size. A billboard sign is subject to the following size restrictions
according to the posted speed limit of the road which the billboard
sign faces.
|
Posted Speed Limit
(MPH)
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Less Than or Equal to 35
|
36 to 45
|
46 to 55
|
56 to 65
|
Limited Access
| |
|
Maximum sign area (square feet)
|
60
|
100
|
150
|
300
|
300
|
C.
Height and location of sign.
(1)
The height of a billboard sign shall be measured from the average
grade based on the area found within a fifty-foot radius of the outer
limit of the sign structure.
(2)
The lowest edge of a billboard sign shall be at least seven
feet above the finished grade.
(3)
Billboard signs shall have a maximum height of 24 feet.
D.
Spacing. Billboard signs shall be:
(1)
Set back a minimum of five feet from the ultimate street right-of-way.
(2)
Set back a minimum of 40 feet from any abutting lot.
(3)
Located no closer than 50 feet from any building, structure,
or non-billboard sign located on the same property.
(4)
Located no closer than 500 feet from any other billboard sign
on either side of the road measured linearly. Such separation distance
shall be increased, where as needed, to ensure that no more than one
billboard sign shall be visible to a driver at any one time.
(5)
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.
(6)
Not located on sewer rights-of-way, or water, electric, or petroleum
pipelines and set back a minimum of 24 feet from any easement.
(7)
Not located on a bridge.
E.
Number of signs per lot. There shall be no more than one billboard
sign per lot. Vertically or horizontally stacked signs shall not be
permitted.
F.
Double-sided billboard signs. Signs may be double-faced, provided
that the two faces are the same size and are positioned as mirror
images that are parallel and not offset from each other in any direction.
G.
Message sequencing. Message sequencing across more than one sign
is prohibited.
H.
Construction and maintenance.
(1)
All plans for billboard signs shall be certified by a licensed
engineer registered in Pennsylvania.
(2)
All billboard 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 billboard signs shall be structurally sound and
maintained in good condition and in compliance with the Pennsylvania
Uniform Construction Code.
(3)
The rear face of a single-face, billboard sign shall be painted
and maintained with a single neutral color as approved by Westtown
Township.
(4)
Every three years, the owner of the billboard shall have a structural
inspection made of the billboard by a licensed engineer registered
in Pennsylvania and shall provide to Westtown Township a certificate
certifying that the billboard is structurally sound.
(5)
All maintenance, cleaning and repair, including repair of torn
or worn advertising copy and removal of graffiti, shall be performed
promptly. In the event the Township notifies the owner or lessee of
any damage, vandalism, or graffiti on the billboard sign, the owner
or lessee shall repair or correct the problem within 48 hours of such
notification. If repairs and corrections are not timely, the Township
shall have the right, but not the obligation, to make repairs or corrections
and be reimbursed the cost thereof by the owner or lessee.
(6)
A billboard sign shall be properly and adequately secured to
prevent unauthorized access.
(7)
A bond or other security acceptable to the Township, in the
form and amount satisfactory to the Township, shall be posted with
the Township to ensure that the billboard sign will be properly removed
after the termination of use for a period of one year.
I.
Identification of sign owner. All billboard signs shall be identified
on the structure with the name, address, and phone number of the owner
of such sign.
J.
Landscaping and screening requirements.
(1)
Landscaping shall be provided at the base of all billboard signs.
Trees and shrubbery, including evergreen and flowering trees, of sufficient
size and quantity shall be used to achieve the purpose of this section.
(2)
Trees having a breast height diameter ("BHD") greater than four
inches, which are 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 with a BHD of no less than three inches.
(3)
Billboard signs shall be screened from any abutting property
used or zoned for residential use. Such screening shall consist of
evergreen trees of at least 15 feet in height at the time of planting
that form a continuous visual buffer along or near the property line
abutting the residential use or lot.
(4)
If at the time of planting the evergreens do not provide for
adequate screening, a temporary, nonvegetative screen may be required
at the discretion and approval of the Township. This screening shall
not exceed the height of the existing sign and shall be removed at
the expense of the sign owner or lessee owner at such time the evergreens
provide for adequate screening as determined by the Township.
K.
Additional regulations. All billboard signs shall comply with any
and all applicable state and/or federal regulations. In the event
any other applicable regulation is in conflict with the provisions
of this section, the more stringent regulation shall apply.
L.
Application/plan requirements. Plans submitted for billboard signs
shall show the following:
(1)
The location of the proposed sign on the lot with the required
sign setbacks from the property line and ultimate right-of-way.
(2)
The location and species of existing trees.
(3)
The distance to the nearest existing billboard sign.
(4)
The distance to the nearest right-of-way, property line, building,
structure, non-billboard sign, billboard sign, intersection, interchange,
safety rest area, bridge, residential district, or institutional use,
sewer rights-of-way, and water, electric or petroleum pipelines.
(5)
Site plan containing all of the applicable requirements set
forth in the Westtown Township Zoning Code, as amended.
(6)
Certification under the seal by a licensed engineer that the
billboard sign, as proposed, is designed in accordance with all federal,
state, and local laws, codes, and professional standards.
M.
Illumination and changeable copy of billboard signs. Lighting shall
comply with the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America's
(IESNA) recommended practices and criteria in the IESNA Lighting Handbook,
including but not limited to criteria for full-cutoff fixtures.
(1)
Billboard signs may incorporate manual changeable copy signs.
(2)
Billboard signs may be illuminated, provided that:
(4)
Billboard signs may incorporate tri-vision boards.
(a)
The length of time each message of the tri-vision board may be displayed before changing is based upon the visibility and posted speed limit unique to individual signs and adjacent road conditions. The message duration for tri-vision boards shall be calculated using the method described in § 170-1805F(1)(d), Message duration.
N.
Safety. In applying for conditional use, the applicant bears the
burden of proof to establish that the proposed billboard sign will
not create a public health or safety hazard in the manner and location
that it is proposed and in the manner by which it is to be operated.
A.
Limited duration, temporary and portable signs, as defined in this
article, located on private property are subject to the regulations
set forth below. Limited duration, temporary and portable 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. Unless otherwise stated below, the requirements listed
below shall apply to signs in both commercial and noncommercial zoning
districts.
B.
Size and number.
(1)
Nonresidential zones:
(a)
Large limited duration and temporary signs. One large 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 minimum
spacing of 200 feet between the two large limited duration signs.
(b)
Small limited duration and temporary signs. In addition to the
large sign(s) outlined above, one small 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 so long as there is a minimum spacing of 200 feet between
both sets of small temporary signs.
(c)
Portable signs.
[1]
Hours of display.
[a]
Signs shall not be displayed on any premises before
6:00 a.m. prevailing time and shall be removed each day at or before
10:00 p.m. prevailing time. However, all portable signs must be taken
in during hours of nonoperation of the business located on the property.
[b]
All portable signs must be taken in during inclement
weather.
[2]
Sandwich board or A-frame signs. Sandwich board
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]
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]
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of seven
square feet per sign face.
[c]
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 3.5
feet.
[3]
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 placing
the sign. 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.
(2)
Residential zones:
(a)
Large limited duration and temporary signs. One large sign is
permitted per property so long as the property is greater than five
acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or has
more than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(b)
Small limited duration and temporary signs. One small sign is
permitted per property.
C.
Permit requirements.
(1)
Limited duration signs.
(a)
A permit for a limited duration sign is issued for one calendar
year effective January 1 and may be renewed annually.
(b)
An applicant may request up to two permits per address, but
is subject to the size and number requirements set forth in this section.
(c)
An application for a limited duration sign permit must include:
[1]
A description of the sign indicating the number,
size, shape, and dimensions of the sign, and the expected length of
time the sign will be displayed;
[2]
A schematic drawing of the site showing the proposed
location of the sign in relation to nearby building and streets;
[3]
The number of signs on the site.
(2)
Temporary signs.
(a)
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 support for the sign. Signs without a date of erection
or legible date of erection placed on the sign support shall be removed
by the Township or the owner of the sign.
(b)
Temporary signs may be displayed up to a maximum of 90 consecutive
days, two times per year.
(c)
Westtown Township or the property owner where the sign is placed
may confiscate signs installed in violation of this chapter. Neither
Westtown Township nor the property owner is responsible for notifying
sign owners of confiscation of an illegal sign. The party posting
the temporary sign is solely responsible for obtaining the permission
of the property owner before posting their temporary sign.
D.
Installation and maintenance.
(1)
All signs must be installed such that, in the opinion of the
Westtown Township Zoning Officer, they do not create a safety hazard.
(2)
All signs must be made of durable materials and shall be well-maintained.
(3)
Signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or are otherwise in a failing
physical condition will be deemed unmaintained and required to be
removed.
E.
Illumination. Illumination of any limited duration, temporary or
portable sign is prohibited.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 170-1804, Signs exempt from permit requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected on properties with active agricultural uses, subject to the conditions specified here.
A.
Any limited duration and temporary signs as defined and regulated in § 170-1808, Regulations by sign type (limited duration, temporary and portable signs).
B.
Freestanding signs shall be permitted subject to the following regulations:
(1)
Number: one sign at each street access, up to a maximum of two
signs per lot.
(2)
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 15 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height of six feet unless
located along Route 926 or Route 352 where the height can be increased
to eight feet.
(4)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 170-1804, Signs exempt from permit requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected on properties serving as parks and open space, subject to the conditions specified here.
A.
Any limited duration and temporary signs as defined and regulated in § 170-1808, Regulations by sign type (limited duration, temporary and portable signs).
B.
C.
Signs located on the interior of the site, the sign face of which
is not larger than 1.5 square feet, are exempt from permit requirements.
D.
Signs for recreation and sporting facilities shall be allowed provided
that the following criteria is met:
(1)
A maximum of 20 signs on the interior walls or fence of an open
stadium or field shall be permitted and no sign shall be greater than
24 square feet in size and shall be nonilluminated and not visible
from any public rights-of-way.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 170-1804, Signs exempt from permit requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected on properties utilized for residential purposes, subject to the conditions specified here.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 170-1808, Regulations by sign type (limited duration, temporary and portable signs).
B.
Signs on a lot on which a major home occupation is located shall comply with § 170-1605G(2)(m).
C.
Freestanding signs on a lot on which residential developments or
apartment buildings containing more than 10 units are located shall
be permitted subject to the following regulations:
(1)
Number: A maximum of two signs are permitted at primary entrance(s)
utilized to access the development.
(2)
Area: freestanding sign, 15 square feet; projecting or wall
sign, 10 square feet.
(3)
Height: freestanding sign, 3.5 feet; projecting or wall sign,
12 feet.
(4)
Illumination: External and internal illumination shall be permitted subject to the regulations in § 170-1805F, Sign illumination.
[Amended 11-16-2020 by Ord. No. 2020-04]
(5)
For signs proposed for a location under the ownership of a private
landowner, a deed of easement or an affidavit from the property owner
where the sign is proposed shall be required as part of any sign permit
application.
(6)
A maintenance agreement shall be submitted as part of the sign
permit application that states the responsible party(s) for the ongoing
maintenance of the sign.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 170-1804, 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.
A.
Any limited duration, temporary or portable sign as defined and regulated in § 170-1808, Regulations by sign type (limited duration, temporary and portable signs), subject to the following regulations:
(1)
One large sign with a maximum area of 24 square feet shall be
permitted on a lot with a principal educational or school use at any
time.
(2)
No more than four small signs with a maximum area of six square
feet shall be permitted on a lot with a principal educational or school
use at any time.
(3)
Small signs on a lot with a principal educational or school
use shall be no closer than 50 feet to another small sign measured
as a straight-line distance between the closest edges of each sign.
B.
The total area of all wall, awning/canopy, freestanding, and projecting
signs shall not exceed an area equal to two square feet for every
one linear foot of building wall parallel to, and facing, any particular
street. The sign area for each street frontage shall be computed separately,
and any allowable sign area not used on one frontage may not be used
on another street frontage.
C.
Signs on a lot with a park or open space use in an institutional district shall comply with § 170-1810.
D.
Freestanding signs on a lot with an institutional use, other than
parks and open space, shall be permitted subject to the following
regulations:
(1)
Number: one ground sign is permitted per street upon which the
property has direct frontage.
(2)
Area: ground sign, 24 square feet except on lots with a principal
educational or school use, which shall have a maximum area of 50 square
feet.
(3)
Height: ground sign, six feet except for lots with a principal
educational or school use, which shall have a maximum height of 15
feet.
E.
Freestanding signs located on the interior of the site at least 25
feet from the nearest property boundary line are exempt from permit
requirements, subject to the following:
F.
Wall signs shall be permitted subject to the following regulations:
(1)
Number: one sign per street frontage, up to a maximum of two
signs. Where an educational use has entrances facing both a street
and a parking lot, a second sign is permitted to face the parking
lot.
(2)
Area: The total area for all wall signs is subject to the regulations in § 170-1806A(2).
(3)
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eave
line of the structure where it is placed.
G.
Awning or canopy signs shall be permitted subject to the following
regulations.
H.
Except as noted below, the following numbers and types of signs
may be erected on any lot with a principal commercial or industrial
use subject to the conditions specified here:
A.
Any limited duration, temporary or portable sign as defined and regulated in § 170-1808, Regulations by sign type (limited duration, temporary and portable signs).
B.
The total area of all wall, awning/canopy, freestanding, and projecting
signs on lots with nonresidential uses shall not exceed an area equal
to two square feet for every one linear foot of building wall parallel
to, and facing, any particular street. The sign area for each street
frontage shall be computed separately, and any allowable sign area
not used on one frontage may not be used on another street frontage.
C.
Wall signs on lots with commercial and industrial uses shall be permitted
subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number: one sign per tenant per street frontage, up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant. Where a store has entrances facing both a
street and a parking lot, a second sign is permitted to face the parking
lot.
(2)
Area: The total area for all wall signs are subject to the regulations in § 170-1806A(2).
(3)
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eave
line of the structure where it is placed.
D.
Awning or canopy signs on lots with commercial and industrial uses
shall be permitted subject to the following regulations.
E.
Projecting signs on lots with commercial and industrial uses shall
be permitted subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number: one sign per ground floor establishment, plus one sign
per building entrance serving one or more commercial tenants without
a ground floor entrance.
(2)
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eave
line.
F.
Window signs on lots with commercial and industrial uses shall be
permitted subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Area: A maximum of 25% of the total window area of any single
storefront may be used for permanent signs that are etched, painted,
or permanently affixed to the window. A maximum of 35% of the total
window area of any single storefront may be covered by a combination
of permanent and temporary window signs.
G.
Marquee signs on lots with commercial and industrial uses shall be
permitted subject to the following regulations.
H.
In addition to building signs, freestanding signs on lots with commercial
and industrial uses shall be permitted subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number: one sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(2)
Area: Each sign shall have a maximum area of 50 square feet
plus an additional 10 square feet per tenant up to a maximum of 100
square feet.
(3)
Height: Signs shall have a maximum height of 15 feet.
A.
Unsafe or unlawful signs.
(1)
Whenever a sign becomes structurally unsafe and/or poses a potential
threat to the safety of a building or premises or endangers the public
safety, and such condition becomes known to the Zoning Officer, he/she
shall give written notice to the owner of the premises on which the
sign is located that such sign must be made safe within five days,
unless the Zoning Officer shall deem appropriate a more extended period
for compliance.
(2)
Where in the opinion of the Zoning Officer upon careful inspection
by him/her and the Township building official, any sign as described
above constitutes an imminent hazard to public safety necessitating
immediate action, he/she shall be empowered to take those measures
he/she deems appropriate to secure, stabilize, or remove such sign
without the written notice to the owner of the premises otherwise
required by that section. Any expense directly incurred to secure,
stabilize, or remove such sign shall be charged to the owner of the
property. Where the owner fails to pay, Westtown Township may file
a lien upon the property on which such sign was situated in the amount
of the costs incurred by the Township to secure, stabilize, or remove
the sign.
(3)
Failure of the Zoning Officer to remove, or require the removal
of, any unsafe sign as described in this section shall create no liability
upon, nor any cause of action against, the Zoning Officer or any other
Township official or employee for damage or injury that may occur
as a result of such 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, structural trim,
and all associated electrical components when applicable.
(2)
Where the owner of the property on which an abandoned sign is
located fails to remove such sign in 180 days, Westtown Township may
remove such sign after the Zoning Officer gives written notice to
the sign owner. 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, Westtown Township may file a lien upon the property
for the purpose of recovering all reasonable costs, including reasonable
attorney fees incurred by the Township, 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 Westtown Township without first obtaining a sign permit, unless the sign is specifically exempt from the permit requirements as outlined in § 170-1804, Exempt signs.
B.
In order to apply for a sign permit, the applicant must provide the
following information, in writing, to Westtown Township:
(1)
Name of organization and location.
(2)
Name, address, and telephone number of the property owner, and
the signature of the property owner or duly authorized agent for the
owner.
(3)
Contact person and contact information.
(4)
Description of 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, eave line 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 Westtown Township, shall be paid.
C.
Westtown Township shall have 15 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 fifteen-business-day
review period if the application for a new sign or renewal complies
with the regulations contained herein.
E.
If Westtown Township does not issue a determination within the fifteen-business-day
period, the sign permit is deemed approved.
F.
An application for a sign permit may be denied by Westtown Township
within the fifteen-business-day review period if the application fails
to comply with the standards contained herein. Westtown Township 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 Westtown Township. In the alternative, the applicant may also appeal
the decision of Westtown Township to the Zoning Hearing Board within
the thirty-business-day time period.
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 cost more than 50% of the replacement cost of
the damaged sign), the organization must apply for a new sign permit,
and pay an additional fee, if required.
A.
Signs legally in existence at the time of the adoption of this article,
which do not conform to the requirements of this article, shall be
considered nonconforming signs.
B.
All permanent signs and sign structures shall be brought into conformance
with the sign regulations when and if the following occurs:
(1)
The sign is removed, relocated, or significantly altered. Significant
alterations include changes in the size or dimension of the sign.
Changes to the sign copy or the replacement of a sign face on a nonconforming
sign shall not be considered a significant alteration.
(2)
If more than 50% of the sign area is damaged, it shall be repaired
to conform to this article.
(3)
The property on which the nonconforming sign is located submits
a subdivision or land development application requiring municipal
review and approval.
(4)
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 Westtown Township.
C.
To determine the legal status of existing signs in each of the cases listed in § 170-1816B, the applicant shall submit the following information to the Westtown Township Zoning Officer:
(1)
Type(s) of existing sign(s) located on the property.
(2)
The area and height of all signs.
(3)
For freestanding signs, the distance between the curbline or
shoulder and the nearest portion of the sign.
(4)
Type of sign illumination.
(5)
The material of which the sign is constructed.
(6)
The building frontage.
D.
Prior to the events listed in § 170-1816B, 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 nonconformity.
E.
Nonconforming signs shall be exempt from the provisions of § 170-1816B 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 (such as an office
in a residential area) may remain until the existing use of the premises
is discontinued.
B.
If a sign wears out or is damaged (including rust, faded colors,
discoloration, holes, or missing parts or informational items), or
is changed for any other reason, the number, size, and area of all
signs relating to the premises shall not be increased beyond the characteristics
of the sign or signs that existed on that property 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 noncommercial sign to the same extent. The
noncommercial 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 noncommercial,
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 article shall be treated as prescribed within Article XXIII of the Zoning Ordinance for Violations Remedies; Fees; Liability.
