The purpose of this Article is to establish a comprehensive system of sign controls regarding the construction, installation, and maintenance of signs that will:
A. 
Promote and protect the health, safety, and welfare of the City by ensuring the compatibility of signs with surrounding structures and land uses.
B. 
Create a more attractive economic climate by enhancing and protecting the orderly and effective display of signs, and by discouraging sign clutter.
C. 
Protect the public from hazardous conditions that result from the indiscriminate use and placement of signs, structurally unsafe signs, signs that obscure the vision of pedestrians or motorists, and signs that compete or conflict with necessary traffic signals, government signs, and warning signs.
All signs constructed, erected, modified, or altered must comply with the following standards.
A. 
Exceptions.
All signs constructed, erected, modified, or altered must comply with the standards of this Article, whether such signs do or do not require a zoning permit, with the exceptions listed in this section. The following signs are not regulated by this Ordinance:
1. 
Signs within a building or enclosed space within a development that are not visible from a public right-of-way.
2. 
Signs installed by federal, state, or local governments.
3. 
Logos and labels on mechanical equipment, recycling bins, trash containers, and similar equipment, which are part of the equipment as manufactured and/or installed.
4. 
Flags of nations, states, and cities, or fraternal, religious, and civic organizations.
B. 
Location Restrictions.
1. 
No sign may be erected in a location that violates the building code, fire code, and/or other applicable City codes or ordinances.
2. 
No sign is permitted within ten feet of an intersection of a street and a driveway as measured along the back of curb or edge of roadway pavement, as applicable, or along the driveway edge.
3. 
Only signs that have been placed or authorized by federal, state, or city governments may be installed on public property. Any sign installed on public property, including rights-of-way, without prior authorization, will be removed by the City without notice and disposed of.
4. 
No permanent sign may be erected on private property without the consent of the property owner or his/her authorized agent. Any sign installed on private property without authorization may be removed by the property owner without notice and disposed of.
5. 
No sign may be erected in a manner that obstructs access to any ingress or egress, fire escapes, fire hydrants, fire department connections, standpipes, and/or similar fire safety connections.
C. 
Tree Protection.
Sign placement, including projections from a building facade, must protect all trees. Existing trees cannot be removed or significantly trimmed in order to install a sign or create more visibility for a sign.
D. 
Audio Components.
Audio components are prohibited as part of any sign, except for the following:
1. 
Drive-through sign: For drive-through signs, the audio component is limited to communication between the customer and service window.
2. 
Signs owned and/or operated by a government agency.
3. 
Permitted gas station pump video screens.
E. 
Construction Standards.
1. 
Supports and braces must either be designed as an integral part of the overall sign or obscured from public view to the extent feasible.
2. 
All signs attached to a building must be installed and maintained so that wall penetrations are watertight and the structure does not exceed allowable stresses of supporting materials.
3. 
All signs must be designed and constructed in compliance with the building code, electrical code, and all other applicable codes and ordinances.
4. 
Glass comprising any part of a sign must be safety glass.
5. 
All letters, figures, characters, or representations in cut-out or irregular form, maintained in conjunction with, attached to, or superimposed upon any sign must be safely and securely built into or attached to the sign structure.
6. 
All electrical fixtures, devices, circuits, conduits, raceways, or similar features must be installed and maintained in compliance with the current City electrical code.
7. 
Conduits, raceways, and other components of a sign illumination system must be designed as an integral part of the overall sign structure and obscured from public view to the extent technically feasible.
F. 
Permitted Materials for Signs.
1. 
Permanent sign structures must be constructed of brick, wood or simulated wood, stone, concrete, metal, plastic, or high-density urethane (HDU) foam board or similar durable foam construction. Solid awnings and structural canopies must be constructed of permanent building materials.
2. 
Awning, canopy, projecting, light pole banner, banners, and wall signs may also be constructed of durable weather resistant material such as canvas, nylon, or vinyl-coated fabric.
3. 
Wall, awning, canopy, projecting, and light pole banner signs constructed of material must be mounted within a frame so that they are held taut between all support posts.
G. 
Required Maintenance.
1. 
All signs must be kept in a safe and well-maintained condition and appearance, and must be repainted or otherwise maintained by the property owner or business owner to prevent corrosion or deterioration caused by the weather, age, or any other condition.
2. 
All signs must be maintained to prevent any kind of safety hazard, including faulty or deteriorated sign structures, a fire hazard, or an electrical shock hazard.
3. 
All unused sign hardware or wiring must be removed.
4. 
No sign frame may remain unfilled or allow any internal part or element of the sign structure to be visible.
5. 
If a sign is maintained in an unsafe or unsecured condition, it must be removed or the condition corrected. If the sign is not removed or the condition is not corrected within the required time period, the City may enforce this order through permitted enforcement procedures.
6. 
The City may remove any sign that is an immediate public peril to persons or property summarily and without notice. The owner of such sign is responsible for all costs of removal.
7. 
Where possible by the design of a sign structure, a permanent sign that becomes obsolete after the associated activity or use is discontinued or abandoned must remove all sign copy from the sign structure and the panels must be removed and replaced with a blank panel. This requirement is not satisfied by reversing (i.e., turning such copy so that it faces inward), painting over, covering with vinyl or other fabric, or other means of obfuscating such copy.
8. 
The following maintenance activities are exempt from requiring a zoning permit. All other maintenance and alterations to a sign require a permit.
a. 
Painting, cleaning, or other normal maintenance and repair of a sign. This does not include any structural changes or any changes in the electrical components of the sign, including the removal or replacement of electrical components. Any activity that increases the sign area, sign height, or any sign dimension, or moves the location of a sign, requires a zoning permit. The changing of a sign face requires a zoning permit.
b. 
Changing the copy of a changeable message sign.
Historic districts and sites, as shown on the City's Historic Landmarks and Districts Map, are subject to the additional requirements of Article 15. Prior to the issuance of a zoning permit, signs will be reviewed for historic compatibility by the Landmarks Commission. The Construction Official must immediately refer such application to the Landmarks Commission for a written report on the permit application.
A. 
Any sign illumination, including gooseneck reflectors, external illumination, and internal illumination, must be designed, located, shielded, and directed to prevent the casting of glare or direct light upon roadways and surrounding properties, and prevent the distraction of motor vehicle operators or pedestrians in the public right-of-way.
B. 
The sign face of internally illuminated signs must function as a filter to diffuse illumination. The sign face must cover all internal illumination components so that no exposed bulbs are visible.
C. 
All external illumination of a sign must concentrate the illumination upon the printed area of the sign face.
D. 
The use of bare bulbs as external illumination is only permitted for marquee signs.
E. 
No sign illumination may be combined with reflective materials, such as mirrors, polished metal, or highly-glazed tiles, which would increase glare.
F. 
The maximum allowable foot-candle at the lot line is one foot-candle unless such signs are allowed to extend over the lot line, where the maximum of one foot-candle is measured at the back of curb or edge of pavement.
G. 
For electronic message signs, the maximum brightness is limited to 5,000 nits when measured from the sign's face at its maximum brightness, during daylight hours, and 500 nits when measured from the sign's face at its maximum brightness between dusk and dawn, i.e., the time of day between sunrise and sunset. The sign must have an ambient light meter and automatic or manual dimmer control that produces a distinct illumination change from a higher allowed illumination level to a lower allowed level for the time period between one-half hour before sunset and one-half hour after sunrise.
All signs not expressly permitted by this Ordinance are prohibited. In addition, the following sign types are specifically prohibited.
A. 
Banners wrapped around a permanent sign structure, such as a freestanding sign or projecting sign.
B. 
Balloon signs. Inflatable advertising displays designed to inflate or move by use of a fan or blower are considered a balloon sign.
C. 
Feather flags/sails.
D. 
Flashing signs.
E. 
Moving signs, including any sign that rotates, revolves, or has any visible moving part, or any sign that gives the appearance of movement, including signs designed to be moved by wind or other natural elements. This excludes analog clocks up to 24 square feet in area and barber poles.
F. 
Portable signs, including portable readerboard signs.
G. 
Strobe lights, moving or fixed spotlights, floodlights/searchlights.
H. 
Signs that constitute a traffic hazard, including signs that:
1. 
Interfere with, obstruct the view of, or may be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device because of its position, shape, or color, including signs illuminated in red, green, or amber color.
2. 
May be confused with any public safety lighting, including signs illuminated in red and blue colors.
3. 
Mislead, interfere with, or confuse traffic.
I. 
Temporary off-premise signs. Also known as push signs, bandit signs, and snipe signs.
J. 
Vehicle signs. Signs placed, mounted, installed, or painted on a vehicle for the primary purpose of attracting attention to an occupant's presence within a building at which the vehicle is being parked. This prohibition does not include signs painted on or applied to vehicles, trucks, or buses that are being operated and stored in the normal course of business, such as signs located on delivery trucks, moving vans, and rental trucks, provided that the primary purpose of such vehicles is not the display of such sign, and that they are properly parked or stored in areas related to their use as vehicles and all such vehicles are in operable condition. This does not include vehicle for-sale signs.
K. 
Video display screens.
Billboards, also known as off-premise signs, are permitted only in accordance with § 315-12.9.
A. 
A-Frame Sign.
1. 
A-frame signs are permitted for nonresidential uses in the commercial and mixed-use districts and the I-MU, and TOD Districts.
2. 
One A-frame sign is permitted per establishment, including one for each tenant in a multi-tenant development. A minimum 15 foot separation is required between all A-frame signs.
3. 
An A-frame sign must be placed within 15 feet of the primary entrance of the business, and must not interfere with pedestrian traffic or violate standards of accessibility as required by the ADA or other accessibility codes.
4. 
A-frame signs are limited to six square feet in area per side and four feet in height.
5. 
The placement of A-frame signs outdoors is limited to business hours only. A-frame signs must be stored indoors at all other times.
6. 
A-frame signs must not be used outdoors when high winds, heavy rain, snow, or other weather conditions exist.
7. 
Illumination of A-frame signs is prohibited.
8. 
No A-frame sign may have any type of electronic component.
A-FRAME SIGN
B. 
Address and Nameplate
1. 
Residential Use.
The street address, number, and/or nameplate must be installed as follows:
a. 
Mounted on a wall, mailbox, or lamp post.
b. 
A maximum area of one square foot.
c. 
Cannot be illuminated unless installed on lamp post.
2. 
Nonresidential Use.
The street address or number must be installed as follows:
a. 
Mounted on a wall.
b. 
A maximum area of four square feet.
c. 
May be illuminated.
C. 
Banner.
1. 
A banner is permitted for nonresidential uses in the nonresidential districts.
2. 
Banners are limited to the following display periods:
a. 
When a banner is related to an event that has a specific start and end time: A total display period of 30 days prior to the start of the event, the time period of the event, and three days following the end of the event.
b. 
All other banners (non-time specific): 21 days.
c. 
A maximum of four display periods per year per establishment is permitted with a minimum of 30 days between displays.
3. 
One banner is permitted per business with frontage on the ground floor.
4. 
Banners are limited to a maximum area of 32 square feet.
5. 
Banners must be securely attached to a building wall. No banner may extend above the first floor of a building.
D. 
Construction Activity.
On a developed lot where active construction is taking place to improve the structure or site, a temporary sign is permitted subject to the following.
1. 
Such signs are permitted in all districts on all sites with such activity.
2. 
One sign is permitted per street frontage.
3. 
Signs may be constructed as either freestanding signs, wall signs, or a sign installed on a fence. Freestanding signs must be located five feet from any lot line.
4. 
Signs are limited to 32 square feet in area and five feet in height.
5. 
Signs may not be illuminated.
6. 
In lieu of a freestanding sign, wall sign, or sign installed on a fence, a wrap sign may be used to wrap the fence or the structure under construction. A wrap sign requires review and approval during site plan review. Such wrap sign must be made of mesh or similar material that is not completely opaque. There is no maximum square footage limitation.
7. 
Such temporary signs may be installed only after approval of a building permit for such activity. Signs must be removed once construction is complete or the building permit expires, whichever occurs first.
E. 
Culturally or Historically Significant Sites.
1. 
A site or building with cultural or historical significance is permitted a permanent sign. Such signs are permitted in any district.
2. 
Signs on culturally or historically significant sites or buildings may be constructed as either freestanding or wall signs, subject to the following:
a. 
Signs on culturally or historically significant sites or buildings are limited to six square feet.
b. 
Freestanding signs are limited to four feet in height and must be located five feet from any lot line.
c. 
Wall mounted signs must be placed so as to be an integral part of the structure, cut into stone or masonry, or be a permanently affixed plaque of metal or other durable material.
d. 
Signs may be externally illuminated.
3. 
Signs on culturally or historically significant sites or buildings are limited to one per street frontage.
F. 
Garage or Yard Sale.
For garage or yard sale with a valid permit from the City, the following signs are permitted:
1. 
Such temporary signs are permitted in all districts on sites where private owners are selling merchandise in a garage sale or yard sale.
2. 
Such temporary signs are permitted 48 hours before the time of the sale and must be removed within 24 hours of the end of the sale.
3. 
Such temporary signs may be constructed as either freestanding signs, wall signs, or installed on fences. Signs are limited to six square feet in area and freestanding signs are limited to five feet in height.
G. 
Gas Pump Island.
A maximum of one sign mounted on each gas station pump island is permitted and is limited to two square feet in sign area. All such signs must be oriented to face the vehicle fueling.
H. 
Light Pole Banner.
1. 
Light poles located entirely on private property are permitted to mount banners in all districts. Light pole banners cannot be used as off-premise signs.
2. 
Light pole banners are limited to a maximum area of 15 square feet.
3. 
Light pole banners must maintain a minimum vertical clearance of 12 feet from grade to the bottom of the banner.
4. 
Light pole banners must be mounted to project perpendicular from light poles.
LIGHT POLE BANNER
I. 
Multiple Tenant Building Entryway.
Multi-family dwellings and nonresidential and mixed-use developments with multiple tenants, are permitted a permanent sign at the entryway subject to the following:
1. 
Signs may be constructed as either freestanding or wall signs.
2. 
Signs are limited to six square feet in area.
3. 
Freestanding signs are limited to five feet in height, and must be located within five feet of the building entry and a minimum of five feet from any lot line.
4. 
Wall-mounted signs must be installed at the building entryway.
5. 
Freestanding signs must be installed so that they are primarily viewable at the building entryway.
6. 
Signs are limited to one per building entry.
J. 
Noncommercial - Sign Structures.
Sign structures used for the expression of noncommercial messages are permitted in all districts. Examples include but are not limited to signs advocating a public issue, recommending a candidate for public office, alerts, or warnings.
1. 
Sign structures are permitted in all districts.
2. 
Sign structures may be freestanding, wall, and window structures. There is no limit on the number of sign structures permitted.
3. 
Freestanding and wall-mounted sign structures must be constructed for a maximum six square feet in area.
4. 
Window-mounting must meet any applicable coverage limitations of window signs.
5. 
Freestanding sign structures must be located at least five feet from any right-of-way line.
6. 
Sign structures may not be illuminated.
7. 
Such sign structures cannot be used for any on-premise or off-premise advertising.
K. 
On-Site Repair or Rehabilitation Activity.
For structures where on-site repair or rehabilitation is taking place, a temporary sign is permitted. Such temporary signs are subject to the following:
1. 
One temporary sign per lot is permitted.
2. 
Such temporary signs are permitted in all districts on sites with active repair or rehabilitation projects.
3. 
Such temporary signs may be installed only after approval of a building permit for such activity. Signs must be removed once the repair or rehabilitation is complete.
4. 
Such temporary signs may be constructed as freestanding signs, subject to the following:
a. 
Signs are limited to four square feet in area.
b. 
Freestanding signs are limited to two feet in height.
c. 
Freestanding signs must be located a minimum of five feet from any lot line.
d. 
Signs may not be illuminated.
L. 
Parking Lot and Parking Structure Circulation Point.
1. 
Parking lots and structures in all districts are permitted permanent signs at parking lot and/or structure circulation points in accordance with this section.
2. 
Circulation points include, but are not limited to, entrances/exits, driveway intersections, drive-through lanes, fire zones, and parking lot drive aisles.
3. 
Signs for parking lot and structure circulation points may be internally or externally illuminated.
4. 
Signs are limited to four square feet in area and four feet in height.
5. 
A freestanding sign must be five feet from any right-of-way line.
M. 
Real Estate Activity.
When a structure or lot is offered for sale, lease, or rent, such lot is permitted a temporary sign as follows:
1. 
Such signs are permitted in all districts. Signs must be located on the site of the property for sale, lease, or rent.
2. 
Signs are limited to one per street frontage.
3. 
Signs may be constructed as either freestanding, wall, or window signs.
4. 
Signs are limited to the following maximum sign areas:
a. 
Residential districts: Six square feet.
b. 
Commercial and mixed-use districts and special purpose districts: 20 square feet.
c. 
Industrial districts: 40 square feet.
5. 
Freestanding signs are limited to six feet in height and must be located within five feet from any lot line.
6. 
Such signs may not be illuminated.
7. 
Signs must be removed within five days of final closing, lease, or rental. If such signs are used in conjunction with a promotional activity related to the sale, lease or rent, such signs must be installed no earlier than 48 hours prior to event and must be removed within 24 hours of the end of the event.
8. 
Signs may be installed only after approval of a building permit for such activity and must be removed within 72 hours once construction is complete.
N. 
Window Sign.
1. 
Window signs are permitted for all nonresidential uses in all districts.
2. 
All window signs, whether temporary or permanent, are limited to no more than 30% of the surface of each window area. Window area is counted as a continuous surface until divided by an architectural or structural element. Mullions are not considered an element that divides window area.
3. 
An illuminated window sign is permitted but limited to a maximum area of six square feet. This is included in the maximum 30% calculation. Such sign cannot flash.
4. 
Window displays of items sold in the store are not considered window signs.
WINDOW SIGN
This section describes the types of signs allowed with a zoning permit. Specific regulations on each sign type may include further restrictions on which districts and/or uses within a district may utilize these sign types. Billboards, also known as off-premise signs, are permitted only in accordance with § 315-12.9.
A. 
Awning Sign.
1. 
Awning signs are permitted for multi-family dwellings and nonresidential uses in any district.
2. 
Awning signs must maintain a minimum vertical clearance of 7.5 feet.
3. 
Awning signs may encroach into the public right-of-way but must be located at least two feet from the curb line.
4. 
Awning signs must be made of a durable, weather-resistant material such as canvas, canvas-like material, nylon, vinyl-coated fabric, or permanent building material such as metal.
5. 
Sign copy on any awning sign surface is limited to 25% of each surface area. A valance is considered a separate surface area.
6. 
Solid awnings are permitted lettering attached to and located either above or below the awning to a maximum height of 18 inches. If attached below the awning, the minimum vertical clearance of 7.5 feet must be maintained from the bottom of such lettering.
7. 
Awning signs may be externally illuminated and lighting must be focused on the printed area.
8. 
Back-lit awnings are prohibited.
AWNING SIGN
B. 
Blade Signs.
1. 
Blade signs are permitted in the commercial and mixed-use districts and the I-MU and TOD Districts.
2. 
Blade signs are limited to 32 square feet in all districts except the C-MS and CA Districts. In the C-MS and CA Districts, blade signs are limited to 12 square feet.
3. 
One blade sign is permitted per establishment with frontage on a street. For a corner lot, one blade sign is permitted for each street frontage.
4. 
Blade signs may project a maximum of four feet from the facade.
5. 
Blade signs must maintain a minimum vertical clearance of 7.5 feet. Blade signs must be mounted within the first four stories of the structure.
6. 
Blade signs may be internally or externally illuminated. If externally illuminated, all lighting must be directed onto the sign face from above.
BLADE SIGN
C. 
Canopy Sign.
Canopy signs are divided into two types: non-structural and structural.
1. 
Non-Structural Canopy Signs.
a. 
Non-structural canopy signs are permitted for multi-family dwellings and nonresidential uses in all districts.
b. 
Non-structural canopy signs must maintain a minimum vertical clearance of 7.5 feet.
c. 
Non-structural canopy signs may encroach into the public right-of-way but must be located at least two feet from the curb line. Support posts must maintain a minimum separation of five feet between posts and five feet between the posts and any building wall.
d. 
Sign copy on any canopy sign surface is limited to 25% of each surface area.
e. 
Non-structural canopy signs may be externally illuminated and lighting must be focused on the printed area. Back-lit canopies are prohibited.
2. 
Structural Canopy Signs.
a. 
Permissions for Structural Canopy Signs.
Structural canopy signs are permitted as follows:
i. 
Structural canopy signs attached to the principal structure are permitted for multi-family dwellings and nonresidential uses in all districts.
ii. 
Freestanding structural canopy signs are permitted for gas stations and drive through facilities in any district.
b. 
Structural Canopy Signs Attached to Principal Structure.
Structural canopy signs attached to the principal structure are subject to the following:
i. 
Canopy signs attached to the principal structure may encroach into the public right-of-way but must be located at least two feet from the curb line.
ii. 
Support posts must maintain a minimum separation of five feet between posts and five feet between the posts and any building wall.
iii. 
Canopy signs attached to a building must maintain a minimum vertical clearance of 7.5 feet.
iv. 
For structural canopies attached to a principal building, sign copy is limited to 25% of each surface area. Such signs are permitted lettering attached to and located either above or below the canopy to a maximum height of 18 inches. If attached below the canopy, the minimum vertical clearance of 7.5 feet must be maintained from the bottom of such lettering.
v. 
Structural canopy signs may be internally or externally illuminated. If externally illuminated, the lighting must be focused on the sign.
c. 
Freestanding Structural Canopy Signs.
Freestanding structural canopy signs are subject to the following:
i. 
Freestanding structural canopy signs are subject to the setback requirements of the district where they are located or ten feet from a lot line, whichever is greater.
ii. 
Freestanding structural canopy signs are limited to a maximum height of 25 feet. Height is measured to the top of a flat roof or in the case of a pitched roof to the mean between the eaves and peak.
iii. 
For freestanding structural canopies, sign copy is limited to a maximum of 25% of the area of each facade. No sign may be mounted above the top of the roof of the structural canopy, but a sign mounted on the structural canopy facade may extend a maximum of six inches above the roofline.
iv. 
Freestanding structural canopy signs may be internally or externally illuminated. If externally illuminated, the lighting must be focused on the sign. Freestanding structural canopies are permitted an illuminated band along each facade of the canopy, which is limited to 10% of the overall height of the facade of the canopy.
CANOPY SIGN - NON-STRUCTURAL
CANOPY SIGN - STRUCTURAL
CANOPY SIGN - FREESTANDING
D. 
Drive-Through Sign.
1. 
Drive-through signs are permitted for all drive-through facilities in any district.
2. 
Drive-through signs are limited to a maximum of two per drive-through lane.
3. 
Drive-through signs are limited to 70 square feet in sign area and eight feet in height. The drive-through sign may be designed as separate freestanding signs grouped together and may include the use of preview boards designed as separate freestanding signs installed a distance earlier in the drive-through lane, however the total area of all signs must not exceed 70 square feet.
4. 
Drive-through signs are permitted an additional ten square feet of sign area for temporary signs attached to the top or sides of the drive-through sign.
5. 
Drive-through signs must be located a minimum of 15 feet from any residential district lot line. This is measured from sign face to lot line, including any public right-of-way.
6. 
Drive-through signs may be internally illuminated. Drive-through signs may also contain an electronic screen for interaction with each customer.
DRIVE-THROUGH SIGN
E. 
Electronic Message Signs.
1. 
Electronic message signs are permitted as follows:
a. 
In the C-MX, MU-T, I-L, I-G, and I-MU Districts.
b. 
The following uses in any district: conservation area, cultural facility, educational facility - college/university, educational facility - primary or secondary, park, place of worship.
c. 
Gas stations in any district are permitted an electronic message sign to display copy graphic that is required to be displayed by law, such as fuel prices.
2. 
Electronic message signs are permitted as part of a freestanding, marquee, or blade sign, and are subject to the requirements for that sign type within the district.
3. 
Electronic message signs must be integrated into a larger sign structure. The electronic component is limited to a maximum of 70% of the total area of a sign. The larger sign structure must contain additional permanent copy; it cannot be a blank sign structure once the electronic message sign component is discounted.
4. 
Only one electronic message sign per lot is permitted. For the purposes of this regulation, a multi-tenant development where the development as a whole is comprised of separate lots of record, the entire development, including outlot parcels and inline development, is considered one lot.
5. 
Each message or image displayed on an electronic message sign must be static for a minimum of six seconds. Electronic message signs must display static text messages only, with no animation or effects simulating animation or video. Any scrolling, flashing, spinning, revolving, or shaking animation, or movement of the message or any component of the sign is prohibited. Any message change sequence must be accomplished immediately by changing from one screen to another without transition by means of, for example, fade or dissolve mode. Video display screens are prohibited.
6. 
Electronic message signs cannot operate as a commercial off-premise sign. This does not include public service messages.
ELECTRONIC MESSAGE SIGN
F. 
Freestanding Sign.
1. 
Freestanding signs are permitted as follows:
a. 
In the I-L and I-G Districts, subject to the following:
i. 
Maximum height: 20 feet.
ii. 
Maximum sign area: 48 square feet.
iii. 
Minimum vertical clearance: 10 feet.
b. 
In the INST and OS-R Districts, subject to the following:
i. 
Maximum height: Six feet.
ii. 
Maximum sign area: 16 square feet.
c. 
The following uses in any district: conservation area, cultural facility, educational facility - college/university, educational facility - primary or secondary, multi-family dwelling, park, place of worship. Such uses are subject to the following:
i. 
Maximum height: 6 feet.
ii. 
Maximum sign area: 16 square feet.
2. 
One freestanding sign is permitted per street frontage.
3. 
A freestanding sign must be located five feet from a lot line, and cannot encroach into the right-of-way or extend beyond the lot lines. Freestanding signs cannot encroach into any internal pedestrian walkway or driveway.
4. 
Freestanding signs must have a minimum ten foot vertical clearance from the ground.
5. 
Freestanding signs may be internally or externally illuminated. If externally illuminated, all light must be directed onto the sign face.
FREESTANDING SIGN.
G. 
Gateway Signs.
1. 
Gateway signs are permitted in all commercial and mixed-use districts and the I-MU and TOD Districts.
2. 
One gateway sign is permitted per street frontage. Gateway signs must be located over a main pedestrian entryway.
3. 
Gateway signs cannot encroach into the right-of-way or extend beyond the lot lines. Gateway signs are prohibited above driveways or any other vehicle drive aisles.
4. 
Gateway signs are limited to a maximum of 12 square feet in area and 12 feet in height. A ten foot vertical clearance is required.
5. 
Gateway signs may only be externally illuminated.
GATEWAY SIGN
H. 
Marquee.
1. 
Marquees are permitted for commercial uses in DT District.
2. 
Marquees must be supported solely by the building to which they are attached. No exterior columns or posts are permitted as supports.
3. 
The roof of a marquee may not be used for any purpose other than to form and constitute a roof and must be constructed of noncombustible material.
4. 
Water from the roofs of a marquee may not drain, drip, or flow onto the surface of a public right-of-way. Sufficient downspouts, drains, and gutters must be installed as part of each marquee to prevent water from the roof of the marquee from flowing onto the surface of a public right-of-way.
5. 
Marquees must be erected over a building entrance and are limited to the width of the building entrance plus an additional five feet on each side of the entrance doors covered by the marquee.
6. 
All marquees must maintain a minimum vertical clearance of ten feet, and the roof of the marquee structure must be erected below the second floor windowsill, and must not conceal any significant architectural features or ornamentation of the building.
7. 
Marquees may encroach into the public right-of-way but must be located at least two feet from the curb line.
8. 
Marquees are permitted lettering attached to and located above the roof of a marquee to a maximum height of four feet.
9. 
Marquees are permitted an electronic message component if the district allows electronic message signs. Marquees are also permitted a changeable message board as part of the marquee structure. However, the marquee may only have either a changeable message board sign or an electronic message sign.
10. 
Marquees may be internally or externally illuminated.
MARQUEE
I. 
Roof Signs.
1. 
Roof signs are permitted only for nonresidential and mixed-use structures and multi-family dwellings of 80 feet or more in height in the DT and I-MU District.
2. 
The size of the roof sign is limited to a height of 15 feet above the roof, including the support structure. The width of a roof sign is limited to 65% of the roof level width or 40 feet, whichever is less.
3. 
Roof signs must be designed with channel letters/icons and the overall area shall be a minimum of 30% transparent.
4. 
A maximum of one roof sign is permitted per building. Roof signs may only be installed only on a flat roof.
5. 
If a roof sign is erected on a building, a skyline sign (item J below) is prohibited.
6. 
A roof sign must be set back a minimum of five feet from the edge of a roof.
7. 
Roof signs must be safely and securely attached to the roof structure and cannot interfere with any roof access points.
8. 
Roof signs may be internally illuminated only.
ROOF SIGNS
J. 
Skyline Signs.
1. 
Skyline signs are permitted only for nonresidential and mixed-use developments of 80 feet or more in height in the commercial and mixed-use, industrial, and special purpose districts.
2. 
The size of the skyline sign is limited to one square foot per linear foot of the facade width where it is mounted or 200 square feet, whichever is less.
3. 
One skyline sign is permitted per facade.
4. 
Skyline signs must be placed within the top 15 feet of the structure and cannot cover any fenestration or architectural features.
5. 
Skyline signs cannot project above the roofline or parapet and must be designed as a wall-mounted sign. A skyline sign cannot be supported by structures installed on the roof.
6. 
If a skyline sign is erected on a building, a roof sign (item I above) is prohibited.
7. 
Skyline signs may be internally illuminated only.
SKYLINE SIGNS
K. 
Wall Sign.
This section includes regulations for three types of wall signs. When permitted in a district, each facade is allowed one type of wall sign that meets the standards for that specific type in this section.
1. 
Standard Wall Signs.
a. 
Standard wall signs are permitted for all nonresidential uses in any district.
b. 
Wall signs are permitted on all facades of a structure. On a site consisting of multiple structures, each structure is permitted wall signs per the regulations of this section. The square footage from different structures cannot be combined to create a larger sign on any one structure.
c. 
For a single tenant structure, the maximum total wall sign area is one square feet per one linear foot of building wall where the wall sign(s) will be mounted or 40 square feet, whichever is greater. The square footage from different facades cannot be combined to create a larger sign on any single facade.
d. 
For a structure that contains multiple tenants, each tenant that has exterior business facade area is permitted a total wall sign area of one square feet per one linear foot of business frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is greater, along their individual frontage(s).
e. 
The number of individual wall signs on a facade is not limited, however the cumulative sign area of all signs on a facade cannot exceed the maximum allowable total wall sign area per facade.
f. 
Wall signs may be internally or externally illuminated. If externally illuminated, all light must be directed onto the sign face.
g. 
Wall signs must be safely and securely attached to the building wall. Wall signs may project 18 inches or less from the building wall.
h. 
No wall sign affixed to a building, including sign support structure, may project beyond the ends or top of the wall or higher than the roofline of the structure to which it is attached. Where a sign band is part of the building design, wall signs should be placed within the sign band.
i. 
On existing buildings, a parapet wall must not be constructed for the sole purpose of increasing the allowable height of a wall sign. For new buildings, when a sign is mounted on a parapet wall, that parapet wall must be consistent with the architectural design of the building, including building materials.
2. 
Painted Wall Sign.
a. 
Painted wall signs are permitted for all nonresidential uses in the nonresidential districts.
b. 
Painted wall signs are permitted on each facade of a structure.
c. 
Painted wall signs are limited to 50% of the building wall or 300 square feet, whichever is less.
d. 
Painted wall signs cannot be painted on or obscure architectural features such as windows, doors, pilasters, or cornices.
e. 
Painted wall signs may be externally illuminated. If externally illuminated, all light must be directed onto the sign face.
f. 
Painted wall signs cannot project more than 0.25 inch from a building wall.
g. 
The property owner, or their authorized representative, is responsible for ensuring that a permitted painted wall sign is maintained in good condition and is repaired in the case of vandalism or accidental destruction.
3. 
Projected Wall Sign.
a. 
Projected wall signs are permitted for all nonresidential uses in the nonresidential districts.
b. 
Projected wall signs are limited to 50% of the building wall.
c. 
Projected wall signs must remain static and cannot flash, rotate, or move. No projected wall sign can project an electronic video.
d. 
Projected wall signs cannot glare onto adjacent properties.
e. 
Projected wall signs cannot be projected past the wall onto which it is projected.
f. 
Projected wall signs cannot be projected over any other permanent or temporary sign, which includes painted wall signs.
WALL SIGN - STANDARD
Table 12-1: Summary of Sign Permissions catalogs the types of permitted signs, both permanent and temporary, and indicates whether such sign requires a zoning permit. This table is provided for reference purposes. In the case of any conflict with the regulations of this table and this Article and/or Ordinance, the specific sign regulations control over this table. Billboards are not included in this table, and are regulated by § 315-12.9.
Table 12-1: Summary of Sign Permissions
Sign Type
No Permit Required § 315-12.6
Zoning Permit Required § 315-12.7
Permissions
A-Frame Sign
✓
Nonresidential uses in the commercial and mixed-use districts, and the I-MU, TOD, and CA Districts
Address and Nameplate
✓
All districts
Awning Sign
✓
All districts for multi-family dwellings and nonresidential uses
Banner
✓
Nonresidential uses in the nonresidential districts
Blade Signs
✓
Commercial and mixed-use districts, and the I-MU and TOD Districts
Canopy Signs - Non-Structural
✓
All districts for multi-family dwellings and nonresidential uses
Canopy Signs - Structural
✓
Attached: All districts for multi-family dwellings and nonresidential uses
Freestanding: All districts for gas stations and drive through facilities
Construction Activity
✓
All districts on sites with construction activity
Culturally or Historically Significant Sites
✓
All districts on sites or buildings with cultural or historical significance
Drive-Through Sign
✓
All districts for drive through facilities
Electronic Message Signs
✓
MU-C, MU-F, MU-T, I-L, I-G, and I-MU Districts
The following uses in any district: conservation area, cultural facility, educational facility - college/university, educational facility - primary or secondary, park, place of worship
Gas stations in any district to display copy graphic that is required to be displayed by law
Freestanding Sign
✓
I-L, I-G, INST, and OS-R Districts
The following uses in any district: conservation area, cultural facility, educational facility - college/university, educational facility - primary or secondary, multi-family dwelling, park, place of worship
Garage or Yard Sale
✓
All districts on sites where private owners are selling merchandise in a garage sale or yard sale
Gas Pump Island
✓
Gas stations in any district
Gateway Signs
✓
All commercial and mixed-use districts and the I-MU and TOD Districts
Light Pole Banner
✓
All districts on light poles located entirely on private property
Marquee
✓
DT District
Multiple Tenant Building Entryway
✓
All districts for multi-family dwellings and nonresidential and mixed-use developments with multiple tenants
Noncommercial - Sign Structures
✓
All districts
On-Site Repair or Rehabilitation Activity
✓
All districts on sites or structures where on-site repair or rehabilitation is taking place
Parking Lot and Parking Structure Circulation Point
✓
All districts for parking lots and structures
Real Estate Activity
✓
All districts when a structure or lot is offered for sale, lease, or rent
Roof Signs
✓
Mixed-use structures and multi-family dwellings of 80 feet or more in height in the DT and I-MU District
Skyline Signs
✓
Nonresidential and mixed-use structures of 80 feet or more in height in the commercial and mixed-use, industrial, and special purpose districts
Wall Sign - Standard
✓
All districts for nonresidential uses
Wall Sign - Painted
✓
Nonresidential uses in the nonresidential districts
Wall Sign - Projected
✓
Nonresidential uses in the nonresidential districts
Window Sign
✓
All nonresidential uses in all districts
A. 
All billboards require a zoning permit. In addition:
1. 
Any billboard within 500 feet of a residential district or a commercial and mixed-use district requires a conditional use.
2. 
Any billboard of more than 300 square feet in area, as allowed in item C below, requires a conditional use.
B. 
Billboards up to 300 square feet in area are subject to the following standards. Billboards that exceed 300 square feet in area are subject to item C below.
1. 
The maximum sign area, including advertising area and trim, is 300 square feet and the maximum sign height is 20 feet.
2. 
Billboards are permitted only in the I-L and I-G Districts.
3. 
Billboards are prohibited within 1,000 feet of the D&R Canal.
4. 
Billboards must meet the requirements of item D.
C. 
Billboards that exceed 300 square feet, including any trim, are subject to the following standards.
1. 
The billboard must be located in an I-L or I-G District to show only toward a limited-access highway, per NJ DOT outdoor advertising standards.
2. 
The maximum sign area, including advertising area and trim, is 672 square feet.
a. 
The maximum vertical length of the billboard cannot exceed 14 feet.
b. 
The maximum horizontal length of the billboard cannot exceed 48 feet.
3. 
Billboards cannot exceed 30 feet in height.
4. 
Billboards must meet the requirements of item D.
D. 
All billboards are subject to the following:
1. 
Billboards must be located a minimum of 300 feet from residential districts.
2. 
No billboard can extend over a public sidewalk or other public area.
3. 
No billboard can be stacked over or placed next to any other billboard.
4. 
No billboard may be placed on top of a building.
A. 
Eligibility.
1. 
Any person may apply for designation of an existing sign as a classic sign. Classic signs are exempt from area, setback, height, lighting, movement, flashing, placement, type, content, placement and construction materials requirements of this Ordinance.
2. 
To qualify for designation as a classic sign, the sign must:
a. 
Be a minimum of 50 years old. This also includes a sign that, due to age or damage, was replicated exactly, and together the age of the original sign and the replica is a minimum of 50 years old.
b. 
Possess unique physical design characteristics, such as configuration, design, message, color, texture, etc.
c. 
Be of significance to the City, regardless of the use identified by the sign.
3. 
A sign designated a classic sign may remain on the premises even if the original use to which the sign relates is no longer located on the premises.
4. 
Billboards cannot be designated a classic sign. No designated classic sign may be converted into a billboard.
B. 
Application.
1. 
A sign owner may file an application for classic sign designation. An application for classic sign designation must include plans for sign maintenance, renovation, or possible reconstruction.
2. 
Application for classic sign status must be made to the Zoning Officer, who will schedule a public meeting, where the applicant presents classic sign recommendations to the Landmarks Commission.
3. 
The Landmarks Commission may approve or deny the application.
4. 
The applicant may appeal a decision of the Landmarks Commission to the City Council within 30 days of notification of the decision.
C. 
Maintenance.
The owner of a classic sign must ensure that the sign is not structurally dangerous, a fire hazard, an electrical shock hazard, or any other kind of hazard. Classic signs may be rebuilt if damaged.
D. 
Designated Classic Signs.
1. 
Designated classic signs are deemed to be of special significance in the City and are, therefore, designated classic signs and exempt from the provisions of this Ordinance. The Zoning Officer will keep a record of signs designated classic signs by the Landmarks Commission.
2. 
After designation as a classic sign, nothing in this Section prohibits the property owner from removing the classic sign. Once so removed, the classic sign designation is null and void.