A. 
Findings. In conjunction with the adoption of the sign regulations of this article and the purposes and intentions set forth in § 660-94B and C the City Council makes all of the following findings:
(1) 
The City has a substantial and compelling interest in regulating signs in a way that avoids or reduces the harms and hazards caused by signs and advancing the purposes set forth in § 660-94B.
(2) 
Unlike oral speech, signs can obstruct views, distract motorists, displace alternative uses for land, contribute to visual clutter, and pose other problems that legitimately call for regulation.
(3) 
Regulation of the size, height, number and spacing of signs throughout the City is necessary to protect the public safety, to assure compatibility of signs with surrounding land uses, to enhance the business and economy of the City, to protect public and private investments, to maintain the tranquil environment of residential areas, to promote industry and commerce, to eliminate visual clutter, to provide an aesthetically appealing environment, to provide ample, meaningful opportunities for persons who desire to display information on signs to have their information seen and understood, and to provide for the orderly and reasonable display of advertising and other messages for the benefit of the public.
(4) 
The sign regulations of this article are not anticipated to entirely eliminate all of the harms that may be created by the installation and display of signs. Rather they strike an appropriate balance that preserves ample channels of communication by means of visual display while reducing and mitigating the extent of harms that may be caused by uncontrolled sign displays.
(5) 
Some signs have a single targeted function that makes identifying them by name or description difficult if not impossible without referring to the sign's function. Whenever a sign is described, in part, by referring to the function it serves, the provisions of this section that limit such a sign are designed to be neutral with respect to the content of the speech appearing on the sign.
(6) 
These regulations are not intended or designed to restrict or control signs for the purpose of promoting or stifling any messages that might appear on them.
B. 
Purpose. The sign regulations of this article are intended to balance the following differing, and at times competing, goals:
(1) 
To accommodate the effective use of signs as a means of identification and communication for businesses, organizations and individuals;
(2) 
Promoting the aesthetic and environmental values of Allentown by providing for signs that serve as effective means of communication and do not impair the attractiveness of the City as a place to live, work, visit, and shop;
(3) 
Protecting public investment in and the character and dignity of public buildings, streets, and open spaces;
(4) 
Protecting the distinctive physical character of Allentown's unique natural features, neighborhoods, street patterns, architectural features, and natural and historic resources;
(5) 
Ensuring that signs are designed and proportioned in relation to the structures to which they are attached, adjacent structures, and the streets on which they are located;
(6) 
Enhancing public right-of-way and other public spaces by preserving views and fostering the unobstructed growth of trees;
(7) 
Providing an environment that safeguards and enhances neighbourhood livability and property values, and promotes the development of businesses in the City;
(8) 
Reducing hazards to motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians caused by visual distractions and obstructions; and
(9) 
Providing broadly for the expression of individual opinions through the use of signs.
C. 
Intent.
(1) 
Time, place, and manner restrictions. The regulations of this article are intended to regulate the composition, type, location, placement, height, size, quantity, illumination, duration, and manner of signs and advertising devices that may be displayed. The regulation of these aspects of signs and sign structures is a valid and lawful means of achieving the purposes of this article. These intentions and purposes are valid and lawful governmental interests.
(2) 
Content neutrality. The City intends to adopt and implement regulations that are content-neutral. It is not the intent to regulate the content of messages in any way. It is not the intent of this article to foreclose important and distinct mediums of expression for political, religious, or personal messages, on any sign permitted to be erected by this article. It is the intent of this article to allow political, religious, or personal (noncommercial) messages on any sign permitted to be erected by this article.
(3) 
Extent. The regulations of this article are considered no more extensive than necessary to serve the substantial public interests promoted by this article.
D. 
Applicability. All signs on private property are subject to the sign regulations of this article and all other applicable provisions of this chapter except that the following signs are exempt from the sign regulations of this article:
(1) 
Street address displays and building identification numbers that are essential to the location of properties and buildings;
(2) 
Cemetery stones and markings of individual graves or burial plots;
(3) 
Holiday decorations, provided that they are removed within 30 days of the holiday to which they pertain;
(4) 
Official government flags;
(5) 
Signs that are not legible to persons with 20:20 eyesight when viewed from a height of 4.5 to five feet above ground level of abutting properties or public rights-of-way;
(6) 
Murals on building walls that contain no commercial message;
(7) 
Official signs or governmental or court-issued notices;
(8) 
Signs that are necessary to warn persons of significant threats on the premises to their physical safety;
(9) 
Scoreboards that are part of a public or private recreational facility and that are oriented to be viewed by spectators within the facility; and
(10) 
Official traffic control signs and other signs and devices installed under the authority of the state or a local government.
E. 
Substitution.
(1) 
Any sign allowed under this article may contain, in lieu of any other message or copy, any lawful noncommercial message that does not direct attention to a business operated for profit, or to a product, commodity or service for sale or lease, or to any other commercial interest or activity, as long as the sign complies with all size, height, location and other applicable requirements of this article.
(2) 
The purpose of the substitution provisions of this section is to ensure "content neutrality," thereby avoiding any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message.
(3) 
The substitution provisions of this section do not create a right to increase the total amount of signs on a lot or allow the substitution of an off-premises outdoor advertising sign for an on-premises sign.
F. 
Sign-related definitions. The definitions of this section apply in administering and interpreting the sign regulations of this chapter.
ATTACHED SIGN
A sign that is attached to a building, including wall signs, awning signs, suspended signs, and projecting signs.
AWNING SIGN
A sign that is mounted or printed on, or attached to, an awning, canopy, or marquee but that does not project above, below or beyond the awning, canopy or marquee.
BANNER
A sign having characters, letters or illustrations applied to cloth, paper or fabric of any kind, with only such non-rigid material for background.
BOX SIGN
A sign that is self-enclosed in a cabinet, with or without internal lighting, whether single- or double- faced.
COMMERCIAL MESSAGE
Any wording, logo, or other graphic representation that directly or indirectly names, advertises, or calls attention to a business, product, service or other commercial activity.
CONSTRUCTION SIGN
A temporary sign located on a lot upon which permitted building or construction activity is actively occurring.
DWELL TIME
The duration or interval of time during which each individual advertisement or message is displayed on any sign with a dynamic display.
DYNAMIC DISPLAY
Any element of a sign or sign structure capable of displaying words, symbols, figures, images or messages that can be electronically or mechanically changed by remote or automatic means, thereby presenting a series of images, messages, or displays.
FEATHER SIGN
A lightweight, portable sign mounted along one edge on a single, vertical, flexible pole the physical structure of which may resemble a sail, bow, or teardrop.
FLASHING SIGN
An illuminated sign that is not kept constant in intensity at all times when in use, and that exhibits sudden or marked changes in lighting effects.
FREESTANDING SIGN
An on-premises sign supported by, or suspended from, a freestanding column or other support located in the ground, and that is not attached to a building.
ILLUMINATED SIGN
A sign that has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines illuminated by electric lighting or luminous tubes as part of the sign.
INDIRECTLY ILLUMINATED SIGN
An illuminated, non-flashing sign whose illumination is derived from an external artificial source so arranged that no direct rays of light are projected from such artificial source into residential districts or public streets.
NONCOMMERCIAL MESSAGE
Wording, logos, or other graphic representations that do not directly or indirectly name, advertise, or call attention to a business, product, service or other commercial activity.
OFF-PREMISES OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGN (BILLBOARD)
A board, panel or tablet used for the display of advertising matter that directs attention to a business, product, service, or activity not conducted, sold or offered upon the premises where such sign is located.
OFFICIAL SIGN
A sign erected by a federal, state, county or City agency, or specifically authorized by a City ordinance or resolution, and that exists for public purposes. Such signs include announcements of governmental funding.
ON-PREMISES SIGN
A sign that directs attention to a business, profession, product, service, or activity sold or offered upon the premises where such sign is located.
PENNANT
Any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire, or string, usually in a series, designed to move in the wind.
POLITICAL SIGN
A temporary sign displayed on a lot during an active local, state, or federal campaign for public office or ballot issue or referendum.
PORTABLE SIGN
An on-premises sign that can be moved from place to place and that is not permanently located, or anchored, in the ground or permanently attached to a building. Examples include signs commonly known as "reader boards," signs carried from place to place on a flatbed truck or trailer that are clearly intended for the purpose of advertising an event, business, product, or other use not associated with the operator of the vehicle, and hot air or gas-filled balloons or other figures tethered to the ground or a building.
PROJECTING SIGN
An on-premises sign that is attached directly to an exterior wall and that extends more than 15 inches from the face of such wall.
REAL ESTATE SIGN
A temporary sign located on a lot or portion of a lot that is actively being marketed for sale, rental or lease.
ROOF SIGN
A wall or projecting signs that exceeds the height of the building to which it is attached. Signs mounted on a parapet wall that is an architectural extension of the facade are not considered roof signs if they have no visible support structures and do not extend more than five feet above the roof line of the building. Signs attached to a roof or parapet that do not meet the definition of a roof sign are regulated as attached signs.
SANDWICH BOARD SIGN
A movable A-frame or T-frame sign that advertises a commercial business located on the premises, and is placed outside only when the business is open. For purposes of this chapter, a sandwich board sign is not considered a temporary or portable sign.
SIGN
Any name, identification, description, display, illustration or device that is affixed to or represented directly or indirectly upon a building, structure or land in view of the general public, and that directs attention to a product, place, activity, person, institution, business or idea.
SUSPENDED SIGN
A sign that is suspended from the underside of a horizontal plane surface, such as a canopy or marquee, and is supported by such surface.
TEMPORARY SIGN
A sign, banner, or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, plywood or other light material and designed or intended to be displayed for a short period of time.
WALL SIGN
An on-premises sign that is attached to the wall of a structure with the face in a plane parallel to such wall, and not extending more than 15 inches from the face of such wall.
WINDOW SIGN
An on-premises sign that is attached to, painted on or readable through an exterior window or door.
A. 
Sign area.
(1) 
Flat wall signs and signs enclosed in frames or cabinets. The area of a flat wall sign or sign enclosed in a frame, box or cabinet is based on the outer dimensions of the sign, or the frame or cabinet surrounding the sign face.
(2) 
Channel (individual) letter signs. The area of a sign comprised of individual letters or elements attached directly to a building wall is determined by calculating the area of the smallest contiguous perimeter around the letters or sign copy area.
(3) 
Painted wall signs. The area of a painted wall sign is measured in the same manner as a channel letter sign.
(4) 
Non-planar signs. Spherical, free-form, sculptural or other non-planar sign area is measured as 50% of the sum of the areas using only the four vertical sides of the smallest four-sided rectangle that will encompass the sign structure.
(5) 
Multi-sided signs. Unless otherwise expressly stated, when the sign faces of a multi-sided sign are parallel or within 30 degrees of parallel, only one side is counted for the purpose of determining the area and number of signs. If the sign faces are not parallel or within 30 degrees of parallel, each sign face is counted as a separate sign. If the size of one sign face is larger than another, the size of the largest sign face is the area of the sign.
Figure 660(28) Channel Letter and Painted Wall Sign Measurement
Figure 660(29) Non-Planar Sign Measurement
Figure 660(30) Multi-Sided Sign Measurement
B. 
Sign height. The height of a freestanding sign is measured as the vertical distance from ground level to the top of the sign. The height of a freestanding sign includes the sign base.
C. 
Setback and separation distances. Unless otherwise expressly stated, required setback, spacing and separation distances between signs must be measured in a straight line from the nearest points on the respective signs or sign structures. Required separation distances between signs and zones, areas, or lots must be measured in a straight line from the nearest point on the sign face to the nearest point of the subject zone, area, or lot.
D. 
Illumination and luminance. For the purpose of verifying compliance with maximum brightness level limits expressed in nits (candelas per square meter), brightness levels must be measured with the dynamic display set to run full white copy with a luminance meter positioned at a location perpendicular to the sign face center. When taking the luminance reading, the sign face must be the only subject visible in the viewfinder.
E. 
Window area. The area of a window includes only the glass or glazed elements of the window. Frames, mullions, and similar features are not counted as part of the window area.
F. 
Building frontage. Many of the sign regulations of this article are based on building frontage. The following rules govern the measurement of building frontage.
(1) 
For buildings occupied by a single tenant or multiple tenants that access the building via a common entrance, building frontage is the exterior building wall that: (1) is adjacent to a street, alley, parking area or other vehicle circulation area that is accessory to and serves the subject building and (2) contains either windows or a public building entrance. Allowed attached sign area for a building that has two or more building frontages must be calculated on the basis of each individual building frontage. Allowed sign area derived from one building frontage may not be assigned to another building frontage.
(2) 
On buildings occupied by more than one tenant where each tenant has their own outside entrance, a tenant's building frontage is the exterior building wall (or walls) that directly abut the tenant's interior floor space and that: (1) abuts, parallels, or is the nearest to parallel with a street, alley, parking area or other vehicle circulation area that is accessory to and serves the subject building and (2) contains either windows or a public building entrance. A tenant that has two or more building frontages must calculate the permitted sign area on the basis of each individual building frontage. Allowed sign area derived from one building frontage may not be assigned to another building frontage.
(3) 
Regardless of the height, number of stories, or number of tenants in a building, building frontage is determined by one measurement of the horizontal length of the wall at finished grade. Building walls must be measured along a flat, unbroken plane, regardless of the presence of recesses or projections along the building wall.
(4) 
As an alternative to the allocation of permitted sign area on the basis of individual building frontages, a differing allotment of sign area may be assigned to the various tenants upon approval of the Zoning Officer. In no instance may the total combined sign area for all signs exceed the maximum allowed sign area for the individual building frontages, as determined in accordance with building frontage measurement rules of this section.
A. 
Off-premises outdoor advertising signs. Off-premises outdoor advertising signs are allowed only in those locations expressly identified in this chapter and only when such signs comply with all applicable regulations. Provisions of this chapter that refer to "signs" being allowed or certain types of signs being allowed (e.g., freestanding, wall, projecting) are not to be construed as references to off-premises outdoor advertising signs being allowed, unless the subject provision expressly refers to "off-premises outdoor advertising signs."
B. 
Prohibited signs. The following signs and sign characteristics are prohibited:
(1) 
Signs for which a required permit has not been issued or that are posted or maintained in violation of the sign regulations of this article;
(2) 
Signs located in such a manner as to constitute a nuisance, as provided in the Municipal Code;
(3) 
Signs erected on public or private property (including rights-of-way) without the permission of the owner;
(4) 
Roof signs;
(5) 
Search lights, strobe lights, rotating beacon lights, flashing lights, and flashing, blinking, mechanically moving, twinkling or animated signs that are visible from public right-of-way, except as otherwise expressly allowed by this article or required by law [this prohibition is not intended to apply to dynamic (sign) displays that do not flash or to off-premises outdoor advertising "trivision" signs located within 200 feet of and oriented to be viewed from the right-of-way Interstate Route 78 or United States Route 22];
(6) 
Off-premises outdoor advertising signs other than those expressly permitted by the regulations of this article;
(7) 
Signs stating or implying that property may be used for a purpose prohibited by this chapter;
(8) 
Feather signs, spinners, pennants, or any moving object used for attention-getting purposes, whether containing a commercial message or not, except that pennants are allowed for outdoor vehicle sales uses;
(9) 
Signs that obstruct vehicular or pedestrian access or circulation, or that pose any other hazard to motorized or nonmotorized travel;
(10) 
Signs that obstruct any fire escape, required exit, window or door opening used as a means of egress;
(11) 
Signs that obstruct, impair, obscure, interfere with the view of, or that emulate or may be confused with, any authorized traffic control sign, signal, or device;
(12) 
Derelict signs and signs constructed or composed of scrap metal, pallets, or other junk material;
(13) 
Signs in violation of the visibility triangle regulations of § 660-70; and
(14) 
Any other sign or advertising device expressly prohibited by provisions of this chapter.
C. 
Signs in right-of-way. The regulations of this subsection apply to all signs except as expressly allowed by the building code or a City-approved encroachment permit.
(1) 
Allowed wall, awning, and projecting signs that project over the public right-of-way must have a minimum vertical clearance of eight feet above the level of the sidewalk or the ground immediately below the sign. Signs may not project over a street or alley cartway.
(2) 
Signs may not project more than 36 inches into the public right-of-way. This provision does not apply to allowed awning signs.
(3) 
Sign posts or other sign supports may not be erected within a public street right-of-way.
D. 
Mounted height of wall and projecting signs. Wall and projecting signs may not exceed the height of the structure upon which they are attached. Signs may be placed on a parapet wall that is an architectural extension of the facade, provided the sign does not extend more than five feet above the roof line of the structure and any sign support structures are not visible. All projecting signs must have a minimum vertical clearance of eight feet above the level of the sidewalk or the ground immediately below the sign.
The signs allowed under the regulations of this section do not require zoning permits and are not counted as signs for purposes of determining the number of signs or area of signs allowed on a lot. These signs are allowed in addition to the signs allowed in specific zones under the regulations of §§ 660-98, 660-99, 660-100, 660-101, 660-102, and 660-103.
A. 
Integral signs. Non-illuminated signs carved, extruded, or embedded into the subject building or made of bronze, aluminum, or other similar permanent material and made an integral part of the building to which they are attached are allowed in all zones. Such signs may not exceed four square feet in area.
B. 
Real estate signs. One real estate sign is allowed per street frontage. Such signs may not exceed:
(1) 
Thirty-two square feet in area or eight feet in height on lots occupied by nonresidential uses or buildings containing three or more dwelling units; or
(2) 
Eight square feet in area or six feet in height on lots occupied by fewer than three dwelling units.
C. 
Construction signs. One temporary construction sign is allowed per street frontage. Such signs may not exceed:
(1) 
Thirty-two square feet in area or eight feet in height on lots occupied by nonresidential uses or buildings containing three or more dwelling units; or
(2) 
Eight square feet in area or six feet in height on lots occupied by fewer than three dwelling units.
D. 
Small attached signs. Small attached signs are allowed in all zones, provided such signs do not exceed two square feet in area in N Zones or four square feet in area in all other zones.
E. 
Signs of historic or cultural significance. The Zoning Officer is authorized to permit the preservation, maintenance, and restoration of painted wall signs on older buildings (often referred to as "ghost signs") when such signs are determined by the Zoning Officer to have historical, architectural, or cultural significance. Like other "exempt" signs under this section, such signs are not counted as signs for purposes of determining the number of signs or area of signs allowed on a lot and are allowed in addition to any on-premises or off-premises signs allowed in subject zone.
F. 
Signs appurtenant to driveways.
(1) 
One sign may be installed at each driveway serving a lot occupied by an allowed nonresidential use or residential use with more than 15 dwelling units or 50 residents. Such signs may not exceed four square feet in area or five feet in height and must comply with the intersection and driveway visibility triangle requirements of § 660-70.
(2) 
Off-street parking areas with a capacity of more than 10 vehicles, multi-tenant developments and uses on lots exceeding 20,000 square feet in area may display internal site driveway signs. Such signs must be located within 10 feet of an internal site driveway or drive aisle and may not exceed 12 square feet in area or eight feet in height.
G. 
Flags. A maximum of four flags may be displayed on any lot. Individual flags allowed under this provision may not exceed 16 square feet in area (pursuant to § 660-94D). Official government flags are exempt from regulation under this chapter.
H. 
Banners. Banners are permitted in mixed-use, industrial and civic-institutional zones, provided that they:
(1) 
Are attached to a building or suspended from some part of a building.
(2) 
Do not exceed 64 square feet in area.
(3) 
Are displayed for no more than two periods of 15 consecutive days each during any twelve-month period.
I. 
Sandwich board signs. One non-illuminated sandwich board sign is allowed per ground floor tenant, subject to the following regulations:
(1) 
Sandwich board signs are prohibited in N Zones.
(2) 
Sandwich board signs may have a maximum of two faces, with a maximum of six square feet per side, and a maximum height of three feet.
(3) 
Sandwich board signs must be placed against the side of a building or along the curb so that at least five feet of the sidewalk remains continuously clear. If a sandwich board is placed within the street right-of-way, an encroachment permit is required.
(4) 
Sandwich board signs must be taken indoors during hours when the use is not open to the public.
(5) 
Sandwich board signs may not use electrical wiring.
J. 
Window signs. Non-illuminated signs displayed inside a window or on a window (decal or painted) and neon signs displayed inside a window are allowed in all zones. Such signs may not cover more than 25% of the subject window area. Window areas included in doors are subject to this regulations and are included in calculation of maximum allowed coverage. Internally illuminated window signs in excess of two square feet in area are regulated in the same manner as wall signs, and are counted towards the maximum sign area and number limits for wall signs.
K. 
Drive-through facilities. Signs appurtenant to drive-through facilities are permitted on the site of any allowed drive-through facility, subject to the regulations of this subsection.
(1) 
Location. Signs appurtenant to drive-through facilities must be located within 10 feet of a drive-through lane.
(2) 
Number and dimensions. One primary drive-through sign not to exceed 36 square feet in area or eight feet in height is allowed per order station up to a maximum of two primary drive-through signs per lot. One secondary drive-through sign not to exceed 15 square feet in area or six feet in height is allowed per lot.
(3) 
Residential separation. Signs appurtenant to drive-through facilities must be set back at least 25 feet from N-zoned lots.
(4) 
Visibility. Drive-through signs must be oriented to be visible by motorists in allowed drive-through lanes.
Figure 660(27) Drive-Through Signs
L. 
Portable signs. Portable signs are permitted in mixed-use and industrial zones, provided that they:
(1) 
Do not exceed six feet in height, measured from grade;
(2) 
Do not exceed 32 square feet in area;
(3) 
Are constructed of a durable material and weighted or anchored to provide stability;
(4) 
Comply with applicable provisions of the City Electrical and Building Codes;
(5) 
Are displayed for no more than two periods of 15 consecutive days each during any twelve-month period.
M. 
Suspended signs. A maximum of one suspended sign is permitted per ground floor tenant building frontage. Such suspended signs may not exceed six square feet in area and must provide a minimum vertical clearance of nine feet above the ground surface below. Suspended signs are considered exempt signs under this section only when attached to the underside of awnings, canopies, or other walkway overhangs.
N. 
Temporary signs. Signs that meet the definition of a "temporary sign" are allowed as follows:
(1) 
Such signs are permitted on a lot with a principal nonresidential use, or on a vacant lot in a non-N zone, except for political signs, which are allowed in all zones.
(2) 
Except for political signs, such signs may be displayed for a maximum of 52 days per calendar year.
(3) 
The total sign area of all freestanding temporary signs on a lot may not exceed 32 square feet. The total sign area of all temporary signs attached to a building may not exceed 64 square feet.
(4) 
Exceptions to the number, size, or duration limitations of this section may be approved in accordance with the special exception procedures of § 660-115.
O. 
Governmental interest signs. Signs necessary to serve compelling governmental interests in protecting or promoting public health, safety, traffic safety; complying with legal requirements; serving the needs of emergency responders; and protecting property rights or the rights of persons on property are allowed in all zones, including the following:
(1) 
When a federal, state or local law requires a property owner to post a sign on the owner's property to warn of a danger or to prohibit access to the property either generally or specifically, the owner or occupant must comply with the federal, state or local law by posting the required sign on the property. If the federal, state, or local regulation describes the form and dimensions of the sign, the property owner or occupant must comply with those requirements; otherwise, when not defined, the sign may not be larger than four square feet in area.
(2) 
Official notices or advertisements posted or displayed by or under the direction of any public or court officer in the performance of official or directed duties; provided that such signs must be removed by the property owner or occupant no more than 10 days after their purpose has been accomplished or as otherwise required by law.
A. 
Applicability. The regulations of this section apply in all N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones outside of the special corridors identified in § 660-99. They also apply to lots occupied by single-purpose residential buildings in all other zones.
B. 
Permitted sign types.
Attached signs and freestanding signs are permitted in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones, in addition to those exempt signs specified in § 660-97. All other sign types are prohibited unless otherwise expressly stated.
C. 
Number, area, and height. The maximum number, area and height of signs allowed in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones (outside of the special corridors identified in § 660-99 may not exceed the limits established in Table 660-15.
Table 660-15. Signs in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones
Maximum
Principal Use
No. Permitted
Area (sq. ft.)
Height (ft.)
Household Living
1 - 4 units
Only those exempt signs allowed under § 660-97
5 - 11 units
1 per street frontage
20
6
12+ units
1 per street frontage
50
6
Group Living
1 - 12 residents
Only those exempt signs allowed under § 660-97
13 - 49 residents
1 per street frontage
20
6
50+ residents
1 per street frontage
50
6
Nonresidential
All
1 per street frontage
20
6
D. 
Additional regulations.
(1) 
Illumination.
(a) 
Signs on N-, MX-N-, and GX-N-zoned lots may be illuminated only by external lighting, not by a light source that is contained within the sign.
(b) 
Dynamic displays are expressly prohibited in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones.
(2) 
Setbacks. Permanent freestanding signs allowed in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones must be set back at least 10 feet from all street rights-of-way.
A. 
Applicability. The regulations of this section apply to lots in MX-N and GX-N Zones with frontage on North 7th Street or North 19th Street except that lots occupied by single-purpose residential buildings are subject to the sign regulations that apply in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones (see § 660-98).
B. 
Permitted signs.
(1) 
Each principal use is permitted one wall, awning or projecting sign per street frontage. The total sign area of all such signs on a lot may not exceed 40 square feet per building frontage. A projecting or awning sign may project up to six feet from the face of a building, provided all other requirements are met.
(2) 
On lots occupied by buildings that are set back at least 20 feet from the street right-of-way, a single freestanding sign is permitted. Such sign may not exceed 10 feet in height or 20 square feet in area. The allowed freestanding sign must be set back from the property line for a distance equal to at least 50% of the minimum required street setback or minimum build-to zone setback.
(3) 
One sandwich board sign is allowed per building. Such sign may have no more than two faces, with a maximum of six square feet per side. The maximum height may not exceed three feet. Sandwich board signs must be placed against the side of a building or along the curb so that at least five feet of sidewalk area remains continuously clear. The sign must be taken indoors during hours when the use is not open to the public. If such sandwich board is placed within the street right-of-way, an encroachment permit is required. Sandwich board signs may not use electrical wiring.
A. 
Applicability. Lots occupied by single-purpose residential buildings in MX-D and GX-D Zones are subject to the sign regulations that apply in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones (see § 660-98). All other lots in MX-D and GX-D Zones are subject to the regulations of this section.
B. 
Attached signs.
(1) 
Buildings in MX-D and GX-D Zones may include one or more wall, awning or projecting on-premises signs. A projecting or awning sign may project up to six feet from the face of a building, provided all other requirements are met.
(2) 
The total area of attached signs may not exceed three square feet per linear foot of building frontage, not to exceed 300 square feet of sign area per building frontage.
(3) 
For walls of buildings that do not have frontage on a street but have entrance facades or frontage on an alley, the total area of allowable wall signs may not exceed one square foot per linear foot of building frontage, not to exceed 100 square feet of sign area per building frontage. This provision does not apply to single- purpose residential buildings.
C. 
Live entertainment venue signs. If a building primarily provides for live entertainment uses for 500 or more customers at a time, then a total of two dynamic displays are allowed on the building subject to the following:
(1) 
Dynamic display signs are prohibited within 200 feet of any N-zoned lot, except that this separation distance requirement does not apply if dynamic display is not visible from the N-zoned lot. Required separation distances must be measured horizontally in a straight line from the nearest point on a sign face to the nearest point of the protected lot.
(2) 
The building must occupy a lot with frontage on Hamilton Street between 5th Street and 10th Street.
(3) 
The total area of dynamic displays may not exceed a cumulative sign area of 1,000 square feet and must be attached to a building wall or marquee that primarily faces Hamilton Street.
(4) 
Dynamic displays are subject to the regulations of § 660-105.
(5) 
Signs with allowed dynamic displays may encroach over a public sidewalk in a marquee-type design upon issuance of an encroachment permit.
(6) 
While dynamic display signs are primarily intended to accommodate on-premises advertising, they may also include off-premises advertising.
D. 
Sign design. The following sign regulations apply within MX-D and GX-D Zones in recognition of the historical significance of these areas of the City.
(1) 
Awning signs.
(a) 
Awnings must be constructed of fabric or other durable, flexible material that has the appearance of fabric. Vinyl, plastic or aluminum awnings are expressly prohibited.
(b) 
Awnings must be shed style (having a straight slope), either fixed or retractable. Dome or bubble-shaped awnings are expressly prohibited.
(c) 
The shape of the awning framework must match the shape of the upper frame of the window or door opening.
(d) 
Any illumination of an awning sign must be indirect, from an overhead light source. Interior illumination of awning signs is expressly prohibited.
(2) 
Wall signs.
(a) 
Wall signs must be flush-mounted to the building. Box signs with interchangeable or plexiglass faces are expressly prohibited.
(b) 
Lettering and symbols on wall signs may be painted, carved, raised, mounted or created with neon tubing. Vinyl sheeting is prohibited on walls facing Hamilton Street.
(c) 
Wall signs located in the sign zone (as described below) between the first and second floors must be placed as follows:
[1] 
If there is a defined cornice, the sign must be centered vertically within the cornice (see Figure A).
[2] 
If there is not a defined cornice, the sign must be centered vertically between the windows of the first and second stories (see Figure B).
[3] 
If there are no windows on the second story, the sign must be placed such that the top of the sign zone is no more than 48 inches above the top of the first-story windows (see Figure C).
Figure A
Figure B
Figure C
(d) 
Wall signs may only be illuminated indirectly from an overhead light source. Interior illumination or backlighting of wall signs is expressly prohibited except where the sign consists of individual letters or has letters cut out of the main surface of the sign. Neon lighting or signs using similar gases may be permitted as a frame around the outside of a wall sign, but not as a frame around an entire window or building.
(3) 
Window signs.
(a) 
Permanent window signs must consist of painting, etching, vinyl sheeting or lettering on the glass surface of a window. Paper or cardboard signs are expressly prohibited.
(b) 
Permanent window signs may occupy no more than 60% of the window area on first floor windows and no more than 30% of the window area on upper floor windows.
(c) 
Temporary window signs may occupy no more than 10% of the window area.
(4) 
Projecting signs.
(a) 
Projecting signs must be constructed of wood or metal and must be mounted to the wall using a simple or ornamental pole or bracket.
(b) 
Lettering and symbols on projecting signs must be painted, carved, raised, mounted or created with neon tubing. Vinyl sheeting is prohibited on walls facing Hamilton Street.
(5) 
Sandwich board signs. Portable sandwich board signs must be constructed of wood or metal or of a material that has the appearance of wood or metal.
(6) 
Freestanding signs.
(a) 
Freestanding signs are limited to monument-style signs affixed directly to the ground. Pole-style signs attached to the ground by a column or pole are expressly prohibited.
(b) 
Freestanding signs must be constructed of wood, metal, masonry or stone or of a material that has the appearance of wood, metal, masonry or stone.
(c) 
Lettering and symbols on freestanding signs must be painted, carved, raised, or mounted.
(d) 
Freestanding may not exceed eight feet in height or 32 square feet in area.
A. 
Applicability. Lots occupied by single-purpose residential buildings in MX-C, MX-S, GX-C, and IX Zones are subject to the sign regulations that apply in N, MX-N, and GX-N Zones (see § 660-98). All other lots in MX-C, MX-S, GX-C, and IX Zones are subject to the regulations of this section.
B. 
Attached signs.
(1) 
Buildings in MX-C, MX-S, GX-C, and IX Zones may include one or more wall, awning or projecting on-premises signs. A projecting or awning sign may project up to six feet from the face of a building, provided all other requirements are met.
(2) 
The total area of attached signs may not exceed two square feet per linear foot of building frontage, not to exceed 300 square feet of sign area per building frontage.
C. 
Freestanding signs.
(1) 
Multi-tenant shopping centers. Lots occupied by multi-tenant shopping centers are allowed a maximum of one freestanding sign with a maximum sign area of 300 square feet and a maximum height of 25 feet.
(2) 
Other. Lots occupied by a principal building that is not on the same lot as a multi-tenant shopping center are allowed a maximum of one freestanding sign with a maximum height of 25 feet and a maximum area of:
(a) 
One hundred fifty square feet if located on a separate lot of four acres or greater; or
(b) 
Seventy-five square feet in all other cases.
D. 
Off-premise outdoor advertising signs. Off-premise outdoor advertising signs are allowed only on IG- or IM-zoned lots or on lots that were classified in the B-3 Zoning District on the day before the effective date specified in § 660-1C. Such signs are subject to the regulations of § 660-104.
A. 
Applicability. The regulations of this section apply in all IG and IM Zones.
B. 
Attached signs.
(1) 
Buildings in IG and IM Zones may include one or more wall, awning or projecting on-premises signs. A projecting or awning sign may project up to six feet from the face of a building, provided all other requirements are met.
(2) 
The total area of attached signs may not exceed two square feet per linear foot of building frontage, not to exceed 300 square feet of sign area per building frontage.
C. 
Freestanding signs. A maximum of one freestanding sign is permitted per lot with a maximum sign area of 150 square feet and a maximum height of 20 feet.
D. 
Off-premise advertising signs. Off-premise outdoor advertising signs are allowed only on IG- or IM-zoned lots or on lots that were classified in the B-3 Zoning District on the day before the effective date specified in § 660-1C. Such signs are subject to the regulations of § 660-104.
A. 
Applicability. The regulations of this section apply in all P Zones.
B. 
Permitted sign types. Wall signs and freestanding signs are permitted in P Zones, in addition to those exempt sign types specified in § 660-97. All other sign types are prohibited.
C. 
Number, area, and height.
(1) 
Hospitals. Sites occupied by hospitals are allowed a total maximum (cumulative) sign area of 300 square feet per street frontage.
(2) 
Other uses. The following regulations apply on P-zoned lots occupied by uses other than hospitals:
(a) 
On lots with an area of one acre or more, a maximum of three signs are allowed per street frontage. Such signs may be attached or freestanding, with a maximum area of 50 square feet each. Freestanding signs may not exceed eight feet in height.
(b) 
On lots with an area of less than one acre, a maximum of one sign is allowed per street frontage. Such sign may be attached or freestanding, with a maximum area of 50 square feet. Freestanding signs may not exceed eight feet in height.
A. 
Regulations. Off-premise outdoor advertising signs, where allowed, are subject to the following regulations:
(1) 
Sides (faces). Each off-premise outdoor advertising sign structure may have sign faces on 2 sides, and each side may include multiple sign faces. Off-premises advertising signs may not have more than two sides.
(2) 
Height. Off-premise outdoor advertising signs are limited to a maximum height of 30 feet. However, for off-premise outdoor advertising signs located adjacent to and directed toward an interstate highway and where the lot is below the grade of the highway that the sign is directed towards, then the total maximum height may be 25 feet above the grade of the highway centerline.
(3) 
Setbacks. Off-premise outdoor advertising signs are subject to the setback requirements that apply to principal buildings in the subject zone.
(a) 
Additionally, off-premises outdoor advertising signs must be set back at least:
[1] 
Three hundred feet from any N-zoned lot; and
[2] 
Three hundred feet from any other off-premise outdoor advertising sign.
(b) 
Additionally, if an off-premises sign, or any portion thereof, includes a dynamic display, the sign must be set back at least 1,000 feet from any other off-premise outdoor advertising sign that includes a dynamic display.
(4) 
Sign area. Off-premise outdoor advertising signs may not exceed a total area of 300 square feet, except when such sign is located within 200 feet of the right-of-way of and intended or designed to be viewed from interstate Route 78 or United States Route 22, in which case the maximum sign area allowed is 672 square feet.
(5) 
Dynamic display. An existing off-premise outdoor advertising sign may be converted to a dynamic display only if:
(a) 
The dynamic display complies with the regulations of § 660-105; and
(b) 
The off-premises outdoor advertising sign would be able to meet all of the current requirements that apply to off-premise outdoor advertising signs as if the outdoor advertising off-premises sign would be newly placed on the property.
(6) 
Portable and projecting signs. A portable or projecting sign may not be used for off-premises outdoor advertising.
A. 
Regulations. Dynamic display signs, where allowed, are subject to the following regulations:
(1) 
Display type. Dynamic displays may not display full-motion video or otherwise use multiple pictures or graphics in a series of frames to give the illusion of motion or video.
(2) 
Dwell time. The images and messages displayed on dynamic displays located within 200 feet of the right-of-way of, and intended or designed to be viewed from, Interstate Route 78 or United States Route 22 must have a minimum dwell time of at least six seconds before changing to the next image or message. The images and messages displayed on all other dynamic displays must have a minimum dwell time of at least 10 seconds before changing to the next image or message.
(3) 
Transition. The transition or change from one message to another on a dynamic display must occur within one second and involve no animation or special effects.
(4) 
Illumination.
(a) 
The brightness of any dynamic display may not exceed a maximum illumination of 5,000 candelas per square meter (nits) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 500 candelas per square meter (nits) between dusk and dawn, as measured from the brightest element on the sign's face.
(b) 
Dynamic displays must be equipped with a light detector or photocell that automatically adjusts the display's brightness according to natural ambient light conditions.
(5) 
Separation from N Zones. Except as more specifically regulated under the provisions of this article, dynamic display signs are prohibited within 50 feet of any N-zoned lot, except that this separation distance requirement does not apply if dynamic display is not visible from the N-zoned lot. Required separation distances must be measured horizontally in a straight line from the nearest point on a sign face to the nearest point of the protected lot.
(6) 
Future amendments. The City reserves the right to amend the dwell time and illumination regulations of this section. Approval of a dynamic display does not establish a right for continued operation of the dynamic display in accordance with the dwell time and illumination regulations then in effect before such an amendment.
(7) 
Acknowledgment. No permit may be issued for a new dynamic display without a written acknowledgment by the owner or tenant of the premises that they have received notice that the future use of the sign is subject to all applicable future amendments of dwell time and illumination regulations.
A. 
Applicability. The regulations of this section apply to signs on lots occupied by outdoor spectator entertainment uses that include more than 7,000 fixed seats and that are not located on lots that abut or are across the street from an N or P1 Zone.
B. 
Internal signs. Signs located entirely within the outer walls of the facility occupied by the outdoor spectator entertainment use and that are oriented to be seen by spectators are not subject to the sign regulations of this article regardless of whether such signs are visible from outside the facility.
C. 
Freestanding signs.
(1) 
Freestanding signs are allowed at each entrance to the outdoor spectator entertainment site. Such signs may be erected on the premises or at off-premise locations for which easements have been obtained from the subject property owner.
(2) 
The maximum sign area of one of the allowed freestanding signs may be up to 150 square feet, with all additional freestanding signs subject to a maximum sign area of 50 square feet each.
(3) 
Freestanding signs may include a dynamic display.
(4) 
Freestanding signs may not exceed 25 feet in height above the elevation of the street centerline, and must be erected either with the bottom of the sign at least 10 feet above the elevation of the street centerline or be set back at least 15 feet from the street property line.
D. 
Banners. Banners may be displayed in associated parking lot areas, including private access roads to the parking lot. Such banners may not exceed a maximum size of 2.5 feet by 6.5 feet. Off-premises advertising is limited to 33% of the banner area.
E. 
Wall signs. The total cumulative area of all exterior wall signs may not exceed 1,000 square feet.
F. 
Exterior surfaces.
(1) 
The venue may have a maximum of 30 signs on the exterior facing surfaces of inward facing advertising panels consisting of printed or painted graphics and off-premises advertising. The total cumulative areas of such signs may not exceed 6,000 square feet and may not be internally illuminated. Advertising is limited to no more than 25% of the total sign area. Not more than two individual signs on which off-premises advertising covers 100% of the display area may be placed adjacent to one another, and in no case may the area of any single advertising panel exceed 400 square feet.
(2) 
The venue may have signs consisting of printed or painted graphics and/or off-premises advertising on exterior-facing surfaces of the scoreboard and the speed of pitch display. The maximum sign area for the scoreboard and the speed of pitch display may not exceed 4,000 square feet and may not be internally illuminated. Off-premises advertising is limited to 25% of the display area.
A. 
Alcohol advertising.
(1) 
No person may place any sign, poster, placard, device, graphic display, or other form of advertising that advertises alcoholic beverages in a publicly visible location within 300 feet of the property line of the following protected uses: schools, playgrounds, youth athletic fields, day care centers, amusement arcades and youth centers.
(2) 
For purposes of this section, "publicly visible locations" include all off-premises outdoor advertising signs and all on-premises wall, projecting, and freestanding signs. The alcohol advertising regulations of this section do not apply to the placement of signs including advertisements in the following instances:
(a) 
Inside any premises selling alcoholic beverages including interior window signs;
(b) 
On commercial vehicles used for transporting alcoholic beverages;
(c) 
Temporary or portable signs in conjunction with a City-approved special event;
(d) 
Any sign that contains a generic description of alcohol products.
B. 
Tobacco advertising.
(1) 
No person may place any sign, poster, placard, device, graphic display, or other form of advertising that advertises tobacco products in a publicly visible location within 300 feet of the property line of the following protected uses: schools, playgrounds, youth athletic fields, day care centers, amusement arcades and youth centers.
(2) 
For purposes of this section, "publicly visible locations" include all off-premises outdoor advertising signs and all on-premises wall, projecting, and freestanding signs. The tobacco advertising regulations of this section do not apply to the placement of signs including advertisements in the following instances:
(a) 
Inside any premises selling cigarettes or tobacco products including interior window signs; or
(b) 
Any sign that contains a generic description of tobacco products.
C. 
Separation distances. Required separation distances must be measured horizontally in a straight line from the nearest point on a sign face to the nearest point of the lot occupied by a protected use.
D. 
Existing advertising. If a protected use is established within 300 feet of lawfully established alcohol or tobacco advertising such lawfully established advertising is considered a nonconforming sign and may remain in place subject to the regulations of § 660-109.
A. 
Zoning approval. Any person proposing to erect any sign must obtain a zoning permit. Applications for zoning permits must be accompanied by detailed plans, including scaled drawings of the proposed sign, a detailed site plan and other information deemed necessary by the Zoning Officer to determine compliance with applicable regulations.
A. 
Description. A nonconforming sign is a sign that was lawfully established but that no longer complies with applicable zoning ordinance regulations because of the adoption or amendment of regulations after the sign was established.
B. 
Regulations. Nonconforming signs may continue subject to the following provisions:
(1) 
Nonconforming signs must be maintained in good repair and safe condition.
(2) 
Existing nonconforming signs may be changed in message or sign face, or changed, moved or replaced, provided that no new or increased nonconformity is created. This provision is not to be construed as allowing the illumination of previously non-illuminated nonconforming signs.
(3) 
If a sign is nonconforming by reason of restrictions on its brightness or illumination or its use of strobe or beacon lights, the sign must be immediately removed or made to conform.
(4) 
A temporary sign that is nonconforming by reason of restrictions on number, placement, or length of time that such sign is allowed to remain in place must be immediately removed or made to conform.
(5) 
A window sign that is nonconforming by reason of restrictions on its sign area must be immediately removed or made to conform.
C. 
Loss of nonconforming status. If a nonconforming sign is removed from a building or lot, including the removal of a freestanding sign's structural supports, and not replaced within 24 months, the sign is presumed to be abandoned, unless the Zoning Hearing Board determines, based on evidence provided by the subject property owner, that there was no intent to abandon the sign. Once a nonconforming sign is abandoned it may not be changed in message or sign face, or changed, moved or replaced unless such change, move or replacement brings the sign into compliance with all applicable regulations of this chapter.