[Amended 11-3-1997 by Ord. No. 97-4; 12-1-2014 by Ord. No. 2014-05; 5-1-2023 by Ord. No. 2023-02]
Any sign erected, altered, or maintained after the effective
date of this chapter 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 Douglass Township to ensure that they are appropriate
for their respective uses, in keeping with the appearance of the affected
property and surrounding environment, and protective of the public
health, safety, and general welfare by:
A.
Setting standards and providing controls that permit reasonable use
of signs while restricting the adverse visual effects of signs on
the character of the Township.
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
each permitted sign can provide an adequate message while minimizing
clutter, unsightliness, and confusion.
D.
Establishing a process for the review and approval of sign permit
applications.
Words and terms used in this article shall have the meanings
given in this 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 their legal definition,
or in absence of a legal definition, their meaning as commonly accepted
by practitioners including civil engineers, surveyors, architects,
landscape architects, and planners.
A sign which has not identified or advertised a current business,
service, owner, product, or activity for a period of at least 180
days, in the case of off-premises signs, or at least 360 days in the
case of on-premises signs.
A sign that designates the street number and/or street name
for identification purposes, as designated by the United States Postal
Service. (Also known as "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.
As defined in § 265-41.
[Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General
Provisions, Art. I)]
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. Changeable copy signs consist of manual changeable
copy signs and electronic changeable copy signs, which include: message
center signs, digital displays, and trivision boards.
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 or within a site.
The exterior wall of a building extending from grade to the
top of the parapet, walls, or eaves, and encompassing the entire width
of the building.
A type of illumination comprised of either: a) a group of
incandescent light bulbs hung or strung overhead or on a building
or other structure, or b) light bulbs not shaded or hooded or otherwise
screened to prevent direct rays of light from shining on adjacent
properties or rights-of-way.
Any sign printed or painted on cloth, plastic, canvas, or
other like material with distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols
attached to a pole or staff and anchored along only one edge or supported
or anchored at only two corners.
A sign whose artificial illumination is not kept constant
in intensity at all times when in use and which exhibits changes in
light, color, direction, or animation. This definition does not include
electronic message centers signs or digital displays that meet the
requirements set forth herein.
A 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.
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.
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.
A sign with electrical equipment installed for illumination,
either internally illuminated through its sign face by a light source
contained inside the sign or externally illuminated by a light source
aimed at its surface.
A source of any artificial or reflected light, either directly
from a source of light incorporated in, or indirectly from an artificial
source.
EXTERNAL ILLUMINATIONArtificial light, located away from the sign, which lights the sign, the source of which may or may not be visible to persons viewing the sign from any street, sidewalk, or adjacent property.
INTERNAL ILLUMINATIONA light source that is concealed or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through a translucent surface. Message center signs, digital displays, and signs incorporating neon lighting shall not be considered internal illumination for the purposes of this article.
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.
A nonpermanent, on-premises 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.
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 type of illuminated, changeable copy sign that consists
of electronically changing alphanumeric text often used for gas price
display signs and athletic scoreboards.
The spreading of one message across more than one sign structure.
A large picture/image (including but not limited to painted
art) which is painted, constructed, or affixed directly onto a vertical
building wall, which may or may not contain text, logos, and/or symbols.
A sign illuminated by a neon tube, or other visible light-emanating
gas tube, that is bent to form letters, symbols, or other graphics.
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 noncommercial activity sold, offered, or conducted on the same
property where the sign is located.
A triangular or irregular piece of fabric or other material,
commonly attached in strings or strands, or supported on small poles
intended to flap in the wind.
A sign attached or affixed to a building, window, or structure,
or to the ground in a manner that enables the sign to resist environmental
loads, such as wind, and that precludes ready removal or movement
of the sign and whose intended use appears to be indefinite.
An on-premises sign that expresses an opinion, interest,
position, or other noncommercial message.
A sign designed to be transported or moved and not permanently
attached to the ground, a building, or other structure.
SANDWICH BOARD SIGNA type of freestanding, portable 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 lighting fixture 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 structures that consist
of poles, posts, walls, frames, brackets, or other supports holding
a sign in place.
The total dimensions of a sign surface used to display information, messages, advertising, logos, or symbols. See § 265-253C 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 § 265-253D.
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, on-premises 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 building-mounted sign which is either attached to, displayed
on, or painted on an exterior wall in a manner parallel with the wall
surface. A sign installed on a false or mansard roof is also considered
a wall sign. (Also known as "fascia sign," "parallel wall sign," or
"band sign.")
Any sign that is applied, painted, or affixed to a window,
or placed inside a window, within three feet of the glass, facing
the outside of the building, and easily seen from the outside. Customary
displays of merchandise or objects and material without lettering
behind a store window are not considered signs.
The following signs are unlawful and prohibited:
A.
Abandoned signs.
B.
Snipe signs. Signs shall only be attached to utility poles in conformance
with state and utility regulations and the requirements of this article.
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 revolving signs.
E.
Pennant strings and streamers.
F.
Animated signs, flashing signs, or signs that scroll or flash text
or graphics.
G.
Inflatable signs and devices or balloon signs, with the exception
of balloons used in temporary, noncommercial 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. Any
banner sign or sign of any type on retaining walls or fences.
O.
Roof signs.
P.
Sandwich
board/A-frame signs.
Q.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with
the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or
federal government.
R.
Any sign containing information which states or implies that a property
may be used for any purpose not permitted under the provisions of
this chapter.
S.
Signs that exhibit statements, words, or pictures of obscene or pornographic
subjects as determined by Douglass Township.
T.
Any sign that promotes illegal activity.
The following signs shall be allowed without a sign permit and
shall not be included in the determination of the type, number, or
area of permanent signs allowed within a zoning district, provided
such signs comply with the following regulations.
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 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 square feet in area per side, are noncommercial
in nature, and not illuminated.
F.
Address signs. Up to two signs stating address, number and/or name
of occupants of the premises and do not include any commercial advertising
or other identification.
G.
Public signs. Signs erected or required by government agencies or
utilities, including traffic, utility, safety, railroad crossing,
and identification or directional signs for public facilities.
H.
Signs or emblems of a religious, civil, philanthropic, historical
or educational organization that do not to exceed four square feet
in area.
I.
Private drive signs. One sign per driveway entrance, not to exceed
two square feet 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 feet.
(3)
Number. No more than two flags per lot in residential districts,
no more than three flags per lot in all other districts.
(4)
Size. Maximum flag size is 24 square feet in residential districts,
35 square feet in all other districts.
(5)
Flags containing commercial messages may be used as permitted
freestanding or projecting signs, and, if so used, the area of the
flag shall be included in, and limited by the computation of allowable
area for signs on the property.
L.
Legal notices.
M.
Incidental window sign.
N.
Memorial signs, public monument or historical identification sign
erected by Douglass Township, including plaque signs up to one square
feet in area.
O.
Signs which are a permanent architectural feature of a building or
structure, existing at the time of adoption of this chapter.
P.
Signs advertising the variety of crop growing in a field. Such signs
shall be removed after the growing season.
R.
Directional signs. May not exceed four square feet in area. Directional
signs shall have a maximum height of eight feet.
S.
Art and murals, provided such signs do not contain a commercial message.
A.
Sign location.
(1)
No sign shall be erected or maintained as to prevent free ingress
and egress to or from any door, window, or fire escape.
(2)
Only instructional signs shall be attached to a standpipe or
fire escape.
(3)
Any sign located on a nonresidential property must maintain
a setback distances from an adjacent residential district as required
under this chapter for other commercial structures or buildings.
(4)
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.
(5)
No sign may occupy a sight triangle.
(6)
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 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 multisided.
(a)
On-premises signs. In determining the area of a multisided,
on-premises sign, only one side shall be considered, provided that
the faces are not more than 18 inches apart. Where the faces are not
equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used as the basis for
calculating sign area. When the interior angle formed by the faces
of a multisided sign is greater than 45°, or the faces are greater
than 18 inches apart, all sides of such sign shall be considered in
calculating the sign area.
(b)
Off-premises signs. In determining the area of a multisided,
off-premises sign, only one side shall be considered, provided that
the faces are not more than 18 inches apart. Where the faces are not
equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used as the basis for
calculating sign area. When the interior angle formed by the faces
of a multisided sign 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.
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,
consistent with the following standards:
(a)
Maintenance. Illuminated signs, including the electrical components
of the sign, shall be maintained in safe condition and good repair
at all times so that all sign information is clearly legible.
(b)
Location. The summary table below [§ 265-253F(7)] provides detailed information about what types of illumination are permitted in each zoning district.
(c)
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.
(d)
No more than 0.1 footcandle of light shall be detectable at
the boundary of any abutting property.
(f)
Brightness. Message center signs and digital displays are subject
to the following brightness limits.
[1]
During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset, luminance
shall be no greater than 5,000 nits.
[2]
At all other times, luminance shall be no greater than 250 nits.
[3]
Each sign must have a light sensing device that will automatically
adjust the brightness of the display as the natural ambient light
conditions change to comply with the limits set here within.
(g)
Message duration. The length of time each message may be displayed
on a message center sign, digital display, or trivision board sign
is based upon the visibility and speed limit unique to individual
signs and adjacent road conditions. The following method should be
used to calculate message duration for message center signs, digital
displays, or trivision board signs.
[1]
Determine the greatest distance from which the sign becomes
visible on the road the sign is primarily intended to serve. If a
sign is intended to be seen by more than one roadway, the road with
the lower posted speed limit shall be used for determining message
duration.
[2]
Multiply the road's posted speed limit (MPH) by 5280, and then
divide by 3600 to obtain the speed limit in feet/second.
[3]
Divide the visibility distance by the speed limit (feet/second).
[4]
Add an additional 10% of this number to the total.
[5]
The resulting amount of time is the minimum permitted message
duration.
(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 § 265-253F(3).
[3]
Digital displays are permitted in accordance with the regulations contained in § 265-253F(4).
(3)
Message center signs are subject to the following regulations,
in addition to all other illumination requirements established in
this section.
(a)
Sign type. Message center signs are permitted in the form of freestanding, monument, and wall signs, both on-premises and off-premises, in accordance with the regulations established in § 265-253F(7).
(b)
Height. A message center sign shall have the same height limits
as other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(c)
Area:
[1]
When used as an on-premises sign, message center signs shall
not exceed 50% of the sign area for any one sign, and shall not exceed
more than 30% of the total area for all signs permitted on a property.
[2]
When used as an off-premises sign, message center signs may
be used for the full permitted sign area.
(d)
Maximum number. Where permitted, one message center sign is
permitted per street frontage, up to a maximum of two message center
signs per property.
(e)
Message display.
[1]
No message center sign may contain text which flashes, pulsates,
moves, or scrolls. Each complete message must fit on one screen.
[2]
The content of a message center sign must transition by changing
instantly (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
[3]
Default design. The sign shall contain a default design which
shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should
occur.
(f)
Conversion of a permitted non-message center sign to a message center sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 265-266, Permits and applications.
(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.
(a)
Sign type. Digital displays are permitted in the form of freestanding, monument, and wall signs, both on-premises and off-premises, in accordance with the regulations established in § 265-253F(7).
(b)
Height. A digital display shall have the same height limits
as for other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(c)
Area:
[1]
When used as an on-premises sign, digital display signs shall
not exceed 50% of the sign area for any one sign, and shall not exceed
more than 30% of the total area for all signs permitted on a property.
[2]
When used as an off-premises sign, digital display signs may
be used for the full permitted sign area.
(d)
Maximum number per property. Where permitted, one digital display
sign is permitted per property.
(e)
Message display:
[1]
Any digital display containing animation, streaming video, or
text or images which flash, pulsate, move, or scroll is prohibited.
Each complete message must fit on one screen.
[2]
One message/display may be brighter than another, but each individual
message/display must be static in intensity.
[3]
The content of a digital display must transition by changing
instantly, with no transition graphics (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
[4]
Default design. The sign shall contain a default design which
shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should
occur.
(f)
Conversion of a permitted non-digital sign to a digital sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 265-266, Permits and applications.
(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 Douglass
Township 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 Douglass 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.
(7)
Illumination standards by district. (See attached chart.[1])
[1]
Editor's Note: The Illumination Standards by District Chart is included as an attachment to this chapter.
A.
Wall signs.
(1)
No portion of a wall sign shall be mounted less than eight feet
above the finished grade or extend out more than 12 inches from the
building wall on which it is affixed. If the wall sign projects less
than three inches from the building wall on which it is affixed, the
eight-foot height requirement need not be met.
B.
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.
C.
Projecting signs.
(1)
No portion of a projecting signs shall project more than four
feet from the face of the building.
(2)
The outermost portion of a projecting sign shall project no
closer than five feet from a curbline or shoulder of a public street.
(3)
Sign height. The lowest edge of a projecting sign shall be at
least eight feet above the finished grade.
D.
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. The lowest edge of the canopy or awning sign shall
be at least eight feet above the finished grade.
(6)
Any ground-floor awning projecting into a street right-of-way
must be retractable.
(7)
Awnings above the ground floor may be fixed, provided they do
not project more four feet from the face of the building.
(8)
Multitenant 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.
E.
F.
Freestanding signs.
(1)
When located within 15 feet of the curbline, the lowest edge
of any freestanding pole sign shall be greater than eight feet.
(2)
Freestanding ground signs shall be supported and permanently
placed by embedding, anchoring, or connecting the sign in such a manner
as to incorporate it into the landscape or architectural design scheme.
(3)
Sign placement.
(a)
All freestanding signs shall be set back five feet from the
right-of-way, except for 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.
B.
Sign size. An off-premises advertising sign is subject to the following
size restrictions according to the posted speed limit of the road
which the off-premises sign faces.
|
Posted Speed Limit
(mph)
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
<35
|
36-45
|
46-55
|
56-65
|
Limited Access
| |
|
Sign area max (square feet)
|
60
|
100
|
150
|
200
|
300
|
D.
Spacing. Off-premises signs shall be:
(1)
Setback from the ultimate right-of-way a distance equal to the
height of the off-premises sign or 15 feet, whichever is greater.
(2)
Located no closer than 25 feet to any property line.
(3)
Located no closer than 50 feet to any building, structure, or
on-premises sign located on the same property.
(4)
Located no closer than 500 feet to another off-premises sign
on either side of the road measured linearly.
(5)
Located no closer than 100 feet to any intersection, or interchange
(on/off-ramp).
(6)
Located no closer than 500 feet to any property line abutting
a public park, playground, religious institution, cemetery, school,
or residential district.
(7)
Not attached to the external wall or otherwise affixed to any
part of any building and shall not extend over any public property
or right-of-way.
(8)
Not located on sewer rights-of-way, or water, electric, or petroleum
pipelines.
(9)
Not located on a bridge.
E.
Number of signs per lot. No more than one sign shall be permitted
per 500 feet of street frontage. Vertically or horizontally stacked
signs shall not be permitted.
F.
Content. Off-premises signs shall not display any message or graphic
of an obscene or pornographic nature as determined by Douglass Township.
G.
Multisided off-premises signs. Signs may be single- or double-sided, in accordance with § 265-253C, Sign area.
H.
Message sequencing. Message sequencing is prohibited.
I.
Construction and maintenance.
(1)
All plans for off-premises signs shall be certified by a licensed
engineer registered in Pennsylvania.
(2)
All off-premises advertising signs shall be constructed in accordance
with industry-wide standards established by the Outdoor Advertising
Association of America and the Institute of Outdoor Advertising, or
their successor organizations. All off-premises advertising signs
shall be structurally sound and maintained in good condition and in
compliance with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code.
(3)
The rear face of a single-face, off-premises advertising sign
shall be painted and maintained with a single neutral color as approved
by Douglass 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 Douglass Township a certificate
certifying that the billboard is structurally sound.
J.
Identification of sign owner. All off-premises signs shall be identified
on the structure with the name, address, and phone number of the owner
of such sign.
K.
Landscaping.
(1)
Landscaping shall be provided at the base of all off-premises
signs. Trees and shrubbery, including evergreen and flowering trees,
of sufficient size and quantity shall be used to achieve the purpose
of this section.
(2)
Trees greater than four inches in diameter removed for construction
of the sign shall be replaced on-site at a ratio of one replacement
tree for each removed tree using native species no less than three
inches in diameter.
L.
Additional regulations. All off-premises signs shall comply with
any and all applicable zoning regulations of Douglass Township, and
any and all municipal, state and/or federal regulations. In the event
any other applicable regulation is in conflict with the provisions
of this section, the more strict regulation shall apply.
M.
Application/plan requirements. Plans submitted for off-premises advertising
signs shall show the following:
(1)
The location of the proposed sign on the lot with the required
sign setbacks from the property line and ultimate right-of-way.
(2)
The location of existing trees.
(3)
The distance to the nearest existing off-premises advertising
sign.
(4)
The distance to the nearest right-of-way, property line, building,
structure, on-premises sign, off-premises sign, intersection, interchange,
safety rest area, bridge, residential district, or institutional use,
sewer rights-of-way, and water, electric or petroleum pipelines.
(5)
Site plan containing all of the applicable requirements set
forth in this chapter, as amended.
(6)
Certification under the seal by a licensed engineer that the
off-premises sign, as proposed, is designed in accordance with all
federal, state, and local laws, codes, and professional standards.
N.
Illumination and changeable copy of off-premises signs.
(1)
Off-premises signs may incorporate manual changeable copy signs.
(2)
Off-premises signs may be illuminated, provided that:
(4)
Off-premises signs may incorporate trivision boards.
(a)
The length of time each message of the trivision board may be displayed before changing is based upon the visibility and the posted speed limit unique to individual signs and adjacent road conditions. The message duration for trivision boards shall be calculated using the method described in § 265-253F(1)(g), Message duration.
O.
Safety. In applying for special exception relief, the applicant bears
the burden of proof to establish that the proposed off-premises sign
will not create a public health or safety hazard in the matter and
location that it is proposed and in the manner by which it is to be
operated.
Limited duration signs, as defined in this section, located
on private property are subject to the regulations set forth below.
Limited duration signs that comply with the requirements in this subsection
shall not be included in the determination of the type, number, or
area of signs allowed on a property. Unless otherwise stated below,
the requirements listed below shall apply to both commercial and noncommercial
signs.
A.
Size and number.
(1)
Nonresidential zones:
(a)
One large limited duration sign is permitted per property in
all nonresidential zones. If a property is greater than five acres
in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or has more than
10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional large limited duration
sign may be permitted so long as there is a minimum spacing of 200
feet between the two large limited duration signs.
(b)
Small limited duration signs. Small limited duration signs are
permitted in all nonresidential zones.
(2)
Residential zones:
(a)
Large limited duration sign. One large limited duration sign
is permitted per property so long as the property is greater than
five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or
has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(b)
One small limited duration sign is permitted per property.
B.
Permit requirements.
(1)
A permit for a limited duration sign is issued for one year
and may be renewed annually.
(2)
One sign is allowed per permit. An applicant may request up
to two permits per address, but is subject to the size and number
restrictions set forth in this section.
(3)
An application for a limited duration sign permit must include:
C.
Installation and maintenance.
(1)
All limited duration signs must be installed such that in the
opinion of the Douglass Township Zoning Officer 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.
D.
Illumination. Illumination of any limited duration sign is prohibited.
|
Zoning District
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Nonresidential
|
Residential
| |
|
Large limited duration signs (max area 16 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area.
Height: Maximum 8 feet
|
Number: 1 per property if property is 5+ acres with 400+ feet
of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area.
Height: Maximum 8 feet
|
|
Small limited duration signs (max area 6 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area.
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
A.
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 subsection shall not be included
in the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed
on a property. Unless otherwise stated below, the requirements listed
below shall apply to both commercial and non-commercial signs.
B.
Size and number.
(1)
Nonresidential zones:
(a)
Large temporary signs. One large temporary 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 temporary sign may be permitted so long as there is a minimum
spacing of 200 feet between the two large temporary signs.
(b)
Small temporary signs. In addition to the large temporary sign(s)
outlined above, one small temporary sign is permitted per property
in all nonresidential 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.
(2)
Residential zones:
(a)
Large temporary signs. One large temporary sign is permitted
per residential property so long as the property is greater than five
acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or has
more than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(b)
Small temporary signs. One small temporary sign is permitted
per residential property.
[2]
Area. Each small temporary sign shall have a maximum area of
six square feet
[3]
Height. Small temporary signs shall have a maximum height of
six feet.
|
Zoning District
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Nonresidential
|
Residential
| |
|
Large temporary signs (max area: 32 square feet for banner,
16 square feet for all other signs)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of street frontage, or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height:
Ground: Maximum 8 feet
Banner: Maximum 24 feet
|
Number: 1 per property if property is 5+ acres with 400+ feet
of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height:
Ground: Maximum 8 feet Banner: Maximum 24 feet
|
|
Small temporary signs (max area: 6 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of frontage, or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
C.
Duration and removal.
(1)
Temporary signs may be displayed up to a maximum of 30 consecutive
days, two times per year.
(2)
Douglass Township or the property owner may confiscate signs
installed in violation of this article. Neither Douglass Township
nor the property owner is responsible for notifying sign owners of
confiscation of an illegal sign.
D.
Permission.
(1)
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.
(1)
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 Douglass Township Code Enforcement Officer, 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.
A.
B.
Sandwich board or A-frame signs. Sandwich board signs that comply
with the requirements in this subsection shall not be included in
the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on
a property.
(1)
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.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of seven square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 3.5 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 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.
C.
Advertising vehicles. Any vehicle or trailer which is parked on a
public right-of-way or on public or private property so as to be visible
from a public right-of-way, which has attached thereto or located
thereon any sign or advertising device for the basic purpose of providing
advertisement of products or directing people to a business or activity
located on the same or nearby property or any other premises is hereby
deemed to be an advertising vehicle and shall be prohibited. This
section shall not prohibit any form of vehicular signage, where the
vehicle is used primarily for other business purposes such as deliveries,
but is intended to prevent the use of vehicles to circumvent the purposes
of this article.
A.
General provisions. Street pole banners that comply with the requirements
of this subsection shall not be included in the determination of the
type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
(1)
Illumination. Illumination of any street pole banner is prohibited.
(2)
Area. Each street pole banner shall have a maximum area of 12.5
square feet and a maximum width of three feet. Up to two street pole
banners are permitted per street pole.
(3)
Height.
(a)
When the street pole banner's edge is less than 18 inches from
the curb, the lowest edge of the street pole banner shall be at least
14 feet above the 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.
(4)
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. No street pole banner shall be located
on a pole that has traffic or pedestrian control signals.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 265-252, Signs exempt from permit requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the R-1 District, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 265-254 through 265-257.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 265-256, Regulations for limited duration signs.
C.
Signs associated with a residential use or parcel within an agricultural/rural zone shall comply with § 265-261.
D.
Parks and open space.
(1)
One freestanding sign is permitted at each street access to
a park or open space facility subject to the following:
(2)
Signs located on the interior of the site used to identify various
use areas, facility boundaries, on-site traffic direction, trail use
information, the hours and rules for the use of the grounds, etc.
are exempt from permit requirements subject to the following:
(3)
Signs for recreation and sporting facilities shall be allowed
provided that the following criteria is met:
(a)
Signs on the interior walls or fence of an open stadium shall
be no greater than 24 square feet in size and shall be designed to
be viewed from the inside of the stadium only, and nonilluminated.
(b)
One freestanding scoreboard, not to exceed 200 square feet in
area and 20 feet in height, is permitted per playing field.
E.
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses in the R-1 District shall
be permitted subject to the following regulations.
F.
Projecting and wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted
subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per building frontage up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 24 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second story window sill, whichever is lower.
G.
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations.
(1)
Area. A maximum of 15% of the total window area of any single
building frontage may be used for signs.
H.
Summary Table for Signs in R-1 Agricultural-Residential District.
|
R-1 Agricultural-Residential District
| |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Projecting
|
Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Nonresidential uses: 1 per tenant per building frontage, up
to a maximum of 2 signs per tenant
|
N/A
|
Parks and open space: 1 per street access plus 1 freestanding
scoreboard per playing field
Nonresidential uses: 1 per street access up to a maximum of
2 signs per lot
|
|
Maximum area (square feet)
|
Parks and open space: Signs on the interior walls or fence of
an open stadium: 24
Nonresidential uses: 20
|
Nonresidential uses: 15% of total window area
|
Parks and open space: 24 (entrance), 200 (scoreboard), 10 (signs
interior to the site)
Nonresidential uses: 32
|
|
Maximum height
|
Nonresidential uses: The eaveline or the bottom of the second
story window sill, whichever is lower
|
N/A
|
Parks and open space: 10 feet (entrance), 20 feet (scoreboard),
8 feet (signs interior to the site)
Nonresidential uses: 6 feet
|
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 265-252, Signs exempt from permit requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the R-1A, R-2, R-3, and R-4 Residential Districts subject to the conditions specified here.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 265-256, Regulations for limited duration signs.
C.
Signs associated with an institutional use or parcel within a residential zone shall comply with § 265-262, Signs in institutional districts.
D.
Signs for parks and open space uses in the R-1A, R-2, R-3, or R-4 Districts are regulated in § 265-260D.
F.
Identification sign for nonresidential uses permitted in the R-1A,
R-2, or R-3 Districts only.
(1)
One sign shall be permitted per property with a maximum area
of 24 square feet and a maximum height for freestanding signs of six
feet.
(2)
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted provided
that no more than 15% of the total window area of any single building
frontage may be used for signs.
G.
H.
Summary Table for Signs in R-1A, R-2, R-3, and R-4 Districts.
|
Residential Districts
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Projecting
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Home occupations: 1 per lot
Nonresidential use: 1 per lot
|
Home occupations: 1 per lot
Nonresidential use: 1 per lot
Residential developments: 1 per lot
|
|
Maximum area (square feet)
|
Home occupations: 2
Nonresidential use: 24
|
Home occupations: 6
Nonresidential use: 24
Residential developments: 15
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline or the bottom of the second story window sill,
whichever is lower
|
Home occupations: 6 feet
Nonresidential use: 6 feet
Residential developments: 8 feet
|
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 265-252, Exempt signs, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected for institutional uses, including schools, religious institutions, municipal buildings, hospitals, clubs, or permitted uses of a similar nature subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 265-254 through 265-257.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 265-256, Regulations for limited duration signs.
C.
Any street pole banner as defined and regulated in § 265-259, Regulations for street pole banners.
D.
Signs associated with a residential use or parcel within an institutional zone shall comply with § 265-261, Signs in residential districts.
E.
Signs in parks and open space. Signs for parks and open space uses in institutional districts are regulated in § 265-260D.
F.
Freestanding signs for uses other than parks and open space shall
be permitted subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per entrance from a public road, up to three
signs per property held in single and separate ownership.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 10 feet.
(5)
Freestanding signs located on the interior of the site used
to identify facilities, on-site traffic direction, hours of operation,
and other information are exempt from permit requirements, subject
to the following:
G.
Building signs, including wall signs, awning or canopy signs, projecting
signs, and window signs, are permitted for institutional uses. The
total sign area of all building signs is limited by the lot size and
wall area of the property as follows:
H.
Summary Table for Signs in Institutional Districts.
|
Institutional District
| |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Standards
|
Wall, Awning/Canopy, Projecting, and Window
|
Freestanding (Entrance)
|
Interior Freestanding
|
|
Maximum number
|
N/A
|
1 per street entrance, up to 3 per lot
|
No limit
|
|
Maximum area
|
A. Lots < 2 acres: 5% of the total wall face area for all
walls that directly face a public street or parking lot. No single
wall sign shall exceed 24 square feet
B. Lots > 2 and < 5 acres: 6% of the total wall face area
for all walls that directly face a public street or parking lot. No
single wall sign shall exceed 36 square feet
C. Lots > 5 acres: 7% of the total wall
face area for all walls that directly face a public street or parking
lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 60 square feet
|
24 square feet lot less than 2 acres); 40 square feet (lots
greater than 2 acres)
|
10 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline
|
10 feet
|
8 feet
|
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 265-252, Signs exempt from permit requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the LC, CC, and VCC Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 265-254 through 265-257.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 265-256, Regulations for limited duration signs.
C.
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for appropriate uses, as defined and regulated in § 265-261, Signs in residential districts.
E.
Any street pole banner as defined and regulated in § 265-259, Regulations for street pole banners.
F.
The total area of all wall, projecting, awning/canopy signs shall
be limited to 1.5 square feet per one linear foot of building frontage
that faces a public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size
limitations based on sign type.
G.
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per street frontage, up to two signs
per tenant. Where a property has entrances facing both a street and
a parking lot, a second sign is permitted to face the parking lot.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 15% of a façade
that faces a public street or parking lot, up to a maximum of 50 square
feet per sign face.
H.
Projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per ground floor tenant per street frontage,
plus one sign per building entrance serving one or more commercial
tenants without a ground floor entrance.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 10 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
(4)
Height.
These signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline or the
bottom of the second story window sill, whichever is lower.
J.
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations.
K.
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 15 square feet
plus an additional five square feet per tenant, up to a maximum of
30 square feet.
(3)
Height. Freestanding signs shall have a maximum height of 10
feet.
L.
Summary Table for Signs in LC, CC, and VCC Districts.
|
LC, CC, and VCC Districts
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall and Awning/Canopy
|
Projecting
|
Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Wall: 1 per tenant per street frontage (up to 2 per tenant)
Awning/canopy: N/A (see § 265-254)
|
1 sign per tenant per street frontage, plus 1 per building entrance
serving tenants without a ground floor entrance
|
N/A
|
1 per street frontage, up to 2 per lot
|
|
Maximum area (total)
|
1.5 square feet per linear ft. of building frontage facing a
public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size limitations
based on sign type
|
N/A
|
N/A
| |
|
Maximum area (individual)
|
Wall: 15% of a façade that faces a public street or parking
lot. Maximum 50 square feet per sign face
Awning/canopy: N/A (see § 265-254)
|
10 square feet
|
15% total window area (permanent signs); 25% total window area
(all signs)
|
15 square feet plus 5 square feet per additional tenant up to
30 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline or the bottom of the second story window sill,
whichever is lower
|
N/A
|
10 feet
| |
Except as noted below, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the GC, M-1, M-2, and MU districts subject to the conditions specified here and in § 265-254.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 265-256, Regulations for limited duration signs.
C.
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for the appropriate uses, as defined and regulated in § 265-261, Signs for residential districts.
E.
Any street pole banner as defined and regulated in § 265-259, Regulations for street pole banners.
F.
The total area of all wall, projecting, and awning/canopy signs shall
be limited to two square feet per one linear foot of building frontage
that faces a public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size
limitations based on sign type.
G.
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to
the following regulations.
(1)
Number. No maximum number.
(2)
Area. Up to 15% of a façade that faces a public street
or parking lot may be occupied by a wall sign. Each sign shall have
a maximum area of 100 square feet per sign face.
(3)
Height.
These signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline or the
bottom of the second story window sill, whichever is lower.
H.
Projecting signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject
to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per ground floor establishment per street frontage,
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.
These signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline or the
bottom of the second story window sill, whichever is lower.
I.
Window signs for nonresidential 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 nonpermanent window signs.
(2)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
J.
Canopy or awning signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted subject to the regulations established in § 265-254, Regulations by sign type (on-premises).
K.
In addition to building signs, freestanding signs for nonresidential
uses shall be permitted subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(a)
For permitted gas stations, an additional 50 square feet of
sign area per street frontage shall be permitted. The additional square
footage of permitted sign area allotted to gas stations can be incorporated
into a single freestanding sign on each frontage (up to 100 square
feet in area) or distributed between two freestanding signs per frontage
(up to 50 square feet in area per sign).
(b)
For permitted drive-through establishments, one additional freestanding
sign (up to 50 square feet in area) shall be permitted in the drive-through
lane for the advertising of items for sale to users of the drive-through
lane only.
(2)
Area. Each freestanding sign shall have a maximum area of 50
square feet plus an additional 10 square feet per tenant up to a maximum
of 100 square feet.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 20 feet.
L.
Off-premises signs shall be permitted, subject to the regulations detailed in § 265-255, Regulations by sign type (off-premises).
M.
Summary Table for Signs in Commercial and Industrial Districts.
|
Commercial and Industrial Districts
| |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Building Signs
|
Freestanding
| ||
|
Standards
|
Wall, Awning/Canopy, and
|
Projecting
| |
|
Maximum number
|
Wall: no maximum number
Awning/canopy: N/A (see § 265-254)
|
1 per ground floor tenant per street frontage, plus 1 per building
entrance serving tenants without a ground floor entrance
|
1 per street frontage, up to 2 per lot (plus one additional
for gas stations or one additional for drive-thru establishments)
|
|
Maximum area (total)
|
2 square feet per linear ft. of building frontage facing a public
street or parking lot, subject to maximum size limitations based on
sign type
|
N/A
| |
|
Maximum area (individual)
|
Wall: Up to 15% of a façade that faces a public street
or parking lot. Maximum 100 square feet per sign face
Awning/canopy: N/A (see § 265-254)
|
20 square feet
|
50 square feet plus an additional 10 square feet per tenant
up to 100 square feet
|
|
Maximum height
|
The eaveline or the bottom of the second story window sill,
whichever is lower
|
20 feet
| |
A.
Unsafe or unlawful signs.
(1)
Upon written notice by Douglass Township, 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 Douglass Township to be a nuisance, or it is deemed unsafe by Douglass
Township, or it is unlawfully erected in violation of any of the provisions
of this article.
(2)
Douglass Township may remove or cause to be removed the sign
at the expense of the owner and/or lessee in the event of the owner
of the person or firm maintaining the sign has not complied with the
terms of the notice within 30 days of the date of the notice. In the
event of immediate danger, Douglass Township may remove the sign immediately
upon the issuance of notice to the owner, person, or firm maintaining
the sign.
B.
Abandoned signs.
(1)
It shall be the responsibility of the owner of any property
upon which an abandoned sign is located to remove such sign within
180 days of the sign becoming abandoned as defined in this section.
Removal of an abandoned sign shall include the removal of the entire
sign including the sign face, supporting structure, and structural
trim.
(2)
Where the owner of the property on which an abandoned sign is
located fails to remove such sign in a 180 days Douglass Township
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, Douglass Township 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 Douglass Township without first obtaining a sign permit, unless the sign is specifically exempt from the permit requirements as outlined in § 265-252, Exempt signs.
B.
In order to apply for a sign permit, the applicant must provide the
following information, in writing, to Douglass 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, 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 Douglass Township, shall be paid.
C.
Douglass Township shall have 30 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 thirty-business-day
review period if the application for a new sign or renewal complies
with the regulations contained herein.
E.
If Douglass Township does not issue a determination within the thirty-business-day
period, the sign permit is deemed approved.
F.
An application for a sign permit may be denied by Douglass Township
within the thirty-business-day review period if the application fails
to comply with the standards contained herein. Douglass 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 Douglass Township. In the alternative, the applicant may also appeal
the decision of Douglass Township to the governing body within the
thirty-business-day time period. Douglass Township at its next regularly
scheduled meeting, shall review Douglass Township'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.
I.
All illuminated signs shall require certification in order to demonstrate continued compliance with the brightness requirements set forth in § 265-253F, Sign illumination. This certification must be renewed every three years. This will allow Douglass Township to adjust standards as needed based on changing technology and evaluation of impacts. Douglass Township reserves the right to assess the brightness of any sign at any time to ensure compliance with illumination requirements.
A.
Signs legally in existence at the time of the adoption of this chapter,
which do not conform to the requirements of this chapter, 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 chapter.
(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 Douglass Township.
C.
To determine the legal status of existing signs, in each of the cases listed in § 265-265B, the applicant shall submit the following information to the Douglass 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 § 265-265B, 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 § 265-265B, 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
chapter, 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
chapter 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. All violations of this article shall be subject to enforcement as provided in Article XXX, Administrative Procedures, of this chapter. In addition to those remedies, nothing shall prohibit Douglass Township from utilizing any and all remedies available to it in law and equity to enforce the provisions of this article.
