[Added 10-11-2005 by Ord. No. 2005:952]
This article shall hereafter be known and may be cited as the "Sign Ordinance."
The purpose of this article with respect to signs is to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the general public, as well as to provide uniform sign and signing lighting standards and regulations that promote a positive image of the Borough of Closter, reflecting order, harmony and pride and thereby strengthening the economic stability of the Borough's business, industrial, cultural, historical and residential areas.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
Unless the context otherwise indicates, the following definitions shall be used in the interpretation and construction of this article. Words used in the present tense include the future; the singular number shall include the plural and the plural the singular. The word "structure" shall include the word "building"; the word "person" includes a corporation as well as an individual; the word "lot" includes the word "plot"; the word "occupied" includes the words "designed or intended to be occupied"; and the word "used" shall include the words "arranged, designed, constructed, altered, converted, rented, leased or intended to be used." The word "may" is permissive. For the purposes of this article, the terms used herein are defined as follows:
ALTERING
To make a change in, to modify, to vary in some degree or to change some of the elements, ingredients or detail without substituting an entirely new sign or components or destroying the identity of the sign being changed.
ANIMATED SIGN
A sign that uses the sequential switching on and off of graphically arranged fluorescent lamps, cathode tubes, LEDs or incandescents so as to provide the illusion of movement.
APPLIQUE
A graphic element made separately then affixed to a cloth or fabric covering such as an awning.
AREA OF SIGN
The area enclosed by the perimeter of the sign, including its background, if any, but excluding the structure of the sign. For signs having no background, an imaginary rectangle surrounding all letters or symbols shall serve as the basis for sign area calculation as illustrated in the example in Figure 1 below. For parallel double-faced ground signs, erected as a single or joined units, the maximum area permitted shall be calculated on one side (the largest) only.
Figure 1 (Sign without background)
AWNING SIGN
A projecting sign made of nonrigid material, such as heavy canvas, supported by a framework that is attached to a building's substrate. The awning sign extends outward from the building and so provides shaded cover and protection from weather for customers and pedestrians. An awning sign will have lettering and/or graphics painted or screen printed on its exterior surface. It may or not be illuminated. (See also "backlit awning" and "canopy sign.")
BACKLIGHTED LETTER
An illuminated reverse channel letter where the light from the letter is directed against and reflected off the surface behind the letter thereby producing a glowing effect around the letter. (Also referred to as "halo lighting.")
BACKLIT AWNING
An awning sign that is lit from underneath by fluorescent or other high-output lighting. The light shines through the awning fabric, illuminating whatever text or graphics are on it and providing effective nighttime readability. The light emanating from underneath the awning also provides light to the sidewalk or street below. (Also called "illuminated awning." See also "awning sign" and "canopy sign.")
BACKLIT SIGN
A sign where the sign face is illuminated from behind. (Also called "illuminated sign." See also "internally illuminated sign" and "exterior illuminated sign.")
BANNER
A sign made of nonrigid material, such as canvas or vinyl, and typically having no enclosing or supporting framework. Often intended for temporary use, a banner sign can be screen printed or painted, and is commonly hung from a pole or mounted to the facade of a building. (See also "flag" and "pennant.")
BENCH SIGN
A sign mounted onto, or incorporated into, a seat in a public area such as a bus stop bench. (See also "street furniture.")
BILLBOARD
A large (15 square feet in area or larger) outdoor sign used for advertising and typically seen along highways, main streets and other high traffic areas. An advertiser will rent a billboard and display its advertisement on it for a set length of time.
BLADE SIGN
A type of projecting sign mounted such that the face of the sign is perpendicular to the normal flow of traffic.
BLANK
An uninstalled sign panel with no lettering or graphics applied. (Also called an "insert.")
BLOCK COLOR
An area of solid color having no gradation.
BORDER
A line or band of color or material that defines that outer edges of a sign and/or elements within the sign.
BOX SIGN
A sign that is self-enclosed in a typically square or rectangular structure with or without internal lighting. Can be single- or double-faced. (See also "light box.")
BRIGHTNESS
A. 
The perceived amount of light that a visual target emits or reflects. Its relative luminance.
B. 
The amount of white in a given color. The greater the amount of white, the brighter the color is said to be.
C. 
Brightness is one of the three attributes of color along with hue and saturation.
BUILDING CODE
Regulations issued by state and local governments that establish standards for the construction, modification and repair of buildings and other structures in the interest of public health, safety and general welfare.
BUILDING-MOUNTED SIGN
Any sign that is applied or attached to a building in some manner.
BUNTING
Patriotic and festive decorations made from such cloth, or from paper, usually in the form of draperies, wide streamers, etc., in the colors of the national flag.
CANDELA
A unit of luminosity used to express the intensity of a light source as measured in a specific direction. The higher the number of candela measured, the greater the intensity of the light.
CANOPY SIGN
A projecting sign made of nonrigid material, such as heavy canvas, supported by a framework that at one end is attached to a building's substrate and at the other end supported by one or more poles. The canopy sign extends outward from the building and acts as a roof over the area it covers, providing weather protection for customers, pedestrians and possibly even vehicles. A canopy sign will have lettering and/or graphics painted or screen printed on its exterior surface. It may or not be illuminated. (See also "awning sign" and "backlit awning.")
CHANNEL LETTER
A three-dimensional letter formed out of channel into which a light source, such as a neon tube, may be placed.
CLEARANCE
The measured distance between the lowest portion of a sign and the highest point of the grade underneath. (Also called "height above grade.")
CONSTRUCTION SITE SIGN
A temporary sign, typically large and freestanding, displayed at construction sites to promote and provide information about the company or companies involved in the project. These can include the contractor, architect, developer, etc. (Also called a "job site sign.")
DIMENSIONAL LETTER
Any letter, logo or symbol that has a raised profile in relation to the sign substrate.
DIRECT ILLUMINATION
Illuminating a sign by means of an external light source directed at the sign face. (See also "exterior illuminated sign.")
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
A sign providing information, either written or visual, that helps direct a person to a destination.
DIRECTORY SIGN
A sign that provides an organized list of names of people, offices or facilities located within a given building or area. Usually located at a public access point such as a building lobby, a directory sign may provide simple text listings or also include maps and other wayfinding information.
ELECTRIC SIGN
Any sign that contains and utilizes electrical components.
ERECT
To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix and shall also include the painting of a wall sign.
EXTERIOR ILLUMINATED SIGN
A sign that is illuminated by an external light source directed at the sign face. (See also "direct illumination.")
FACADE
The exterior walls of a building, especially the front or the most prominent side of the building.
FASCIA SIGN
A sign mounted to a wall or other vertical surface. A flat sign that is mounted on a wall and the face of which runs parallel to the wall. A fascia sign does not typically project from the wall.
FLAG
A sign made of nonrigid material, such as canvas or vinyl, and having no enclosing or supporting framework. A flag is usually rectangular or triangular in shape and is attached at one end to a pole. Often intended for temporary use, a flag can be screen printed or painted. (See also "banner" and "pennant.")
FLASHING SIGN
An illuminated sign having an intermittent or flashing light source as a means of drawing attention to its message.
FLAT SCREEN
Generic term for a LCD display.
FLUORESCENT LAMP
A light source consisting of a glass tube lined with a phosphor coating and filled with mercury vapor. When an electric current is applied, the gas emits ultraviolet radiation that in turn excites the phosphor coating causing it to radiate visible light. Fluorescent lamps are more energy efficient than incandescent lamps.
FOOTING
The base of a sign's supporting structure. The footing is typically secured to a foundation or other anchor such as a building's roof.
FOUNDATION
A concrete substructure that anchors a sign and its supporting structure to the ground. (See also "footing.")
GROUND SIGN
A sign that is not attached to a building, has its own support structure and is typically secured to a foundation or with guy wires. A sign supported directly on the ground by a footing, base and pedestal or by pole(s) or upright(s) set in or on a footing and/or base.
HALO LIGHTING
A type of sign lighting where a light source located within or behind a sign is allowed to reflect off the mounting surface. The result is that the sign appears to be surrounded by a halo of light.
HANGING SIGN
A projecting double-faced sign mounted to a wall or pole and hung from a bracket or support arm. (Also known as a "projecting sign.")
IDENTIFICATION SIGN
A sign that provides the name of the business displaying the sign.
ILLUMINATED SIGN
A sign where the sign face is illuminated in some manner. (Also called "backlit sign." See also "internally illuminated sign" and "exterior illuminated sign.")
INCIDENTAL SIGN
A sign intended for informational purposes as opposed to commercial or advertising purposes. Typically smaller in size, examples of incidental signs include parking signs, restroom signs, and entrance and exit signs.
INTERIOR SIGN
Any sign located within a building or structure.
INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED SIGN
A sign that is illuminated by a light source contained within the sign structure or housing. (See also "backlit sign" and "exterior illuminated sign.")
JOB SITE SIGN
A temporary sign, typically large and freestanding, displayed at construction sites to promote and provide information about the company or companies involved in the project. These can include the contractor, architect, developer, etc. (Also called a "construction site sign.")
LIGHT BOX
A sign that is self-enclosed in a typically square or rectangular structure and houses an internal light system for illumination of the sign face. (See also "box sign.")
LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE (LED)
A small electronic device that emits light when electrically charged. In computer controlled arrays, LEDs can be used to create an electronic message center.
LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY (LCD) SIGN
A type of flat-panel display that recreates an image or message through the manipulation of electrically sensitive crystals suspended in a liquid medium. Commonly used in electronic message centers.
LOGO
A visually distinctive name and/or symbol that identifies a business, product or service. (See also "trademark.")
MAINTENANCE; MAINTENANCE OF SIGNS
Replacement, without substantial change, of any part or supports of a sign without repainting, without change of text, design or size of a sign, without removal of the sign from the wall or supporting structure.
MALL SIGNAGE
A general term for on-premises signs located within a multitenant building or mall.
MARQUEE SIGN
A permanent structure attached to the front of a building and which incorporates a large message center. Typically illuminated and often ornate in design, a marquee sign projects over the entrance of the building and provides a canopy over at least a portion of the sidewalk or street. Marquee signs are often used by movie theaters and concert halls.
MEMORIAL SIGN
A sign, typically a plaque, which commemorates a person, place or event.
MENU BOARD
A changeable point-of-purchase sign that provides a list of products and prices. It is a type of sign commonly seen in sandwich shops and other fast-service restaurants where it is used to display the menu. (See also "variable message sign.")
MOBILE SIGN
A large sign mounted on a trailer or back of a truck. The sign may or may not be illuminated. (Also called a "mobile billboard.")
MONUMENT SIGN
A freestanding sign that stands directly on the ground or ground-level foundation. A monument sign is often used to mark a place of significance or the entrance to a location. (See also "low-profile sign.")
NAMEPLATE
A small wall-mounted or freestanding sign made of plastic or metal that states the name, occupation and/or title of the occupant of an office, desk or building.
NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE (NEC)
A set of codes and standards set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for the safe use of electrical wiring and equipment.
NEON SIGN
A sign that incorporates one or more neon lamps. The sign message is created by bending and forming the neon tubes into lettering and/or iconic graphical shapes.
NEON TUBING
The vacuum tubing (typically clear) used to hold the inert gas (neon gas) used in a neon lamp. Neon tubing can be bent and formed into almost any shape to create lettering and iconic graphics. The color of the tubing and coatings applied to it may alter the color of the light emitted.
OFF-PREMISES SIGN
A sign that is not located on or directly adjacent to the business or property to which it relates. A billboard is an example of an off-premises sign. (See also "on-premises sign.")
ON-PREMISES SIGN
Any sign that is located on or directly adjacent to the business or property to which it relates. (See also "off-premises sign.")
OPEN CHANNEL LETTER
A channel letter with returns that project forward from face of letter such that the neon tubing is visible.
PAINTED WALL SIGN
A sign that is painted directly onto an exterior wall of a building.
PAN CHANNEL LETTER
A dimensional letter that is constructed with integrated face, back and sidewalls so as to make the letter appear as a single solid unit.
PARAPET
A low wall built along the edge of a building's roof.
PARAPET SIGN
A sign mounted on the parapet of a building. (See also "building-mounted sign.")
PENNANT
A triangular flag. (See also "banner.")
PERMANENT SIGN
Any sign that is affixed to a building or structure in such a manner as to give it the support necessary to resist environmental loads over time and to preclude easy removal.
PERMIT
A legal document (license) granted by the appropriate government agency that gives official permission to take a specific action, e.g., erect a sign.
POLE SIGN
A freestanding sign, usually double-faced, mounted on a round pole, square tube, or other fabricated member without any type of secondary support.
PORTABLE SIGN
A freestanding, on-premises sign, not designed to be permanently affixed in place. These could include freestanding signs or notices as well as point-of-purchase signs.
POST AND PANEL SIGN
A sign panel with one or more posts.
POST-MOUNTED SIGN
A sign that is attached to one or more sign poles.
PRECINCT SIGN
A sign marking the entrance to a town, neighborhood, development, park or other public area. (Also called "gateway sign.")
PROJECTING SIGN
A sign that is attached to a building but extends beyond the building structure. Regulators often set a predetermined distance that a sign must extend beyond a building for it to be considered a projecting sign. A decorated awning is an example of a projecting sign. (Also called "blade sign.")
PYLON SIGN
A freestanding sign that is not a pole or ground sign.
READERBOARD
A sign on which copy can be changed manually. It usually consists of a panel on which individual letters or pictorials are mounted. Like a window sign, it can advertise special prices or items. It can also be placed so that it can be easily seen from a passing motor vehicle.
REGULATORY SIGN
Signs installed by various government bodies to inform the public of traffic laws and other regulations.
RE-LETTERING
To change the lettering or descriptive symbol on a sign without changing any of the structure, parts or components of the sign.
RETRACTABLE AWNING
A cantilevered structure, entirely supported from a building, and constructed so that the awning cover and supporting frame retracts completely against the building. This relieves the awning from wind, rain and snow pressure and loads normally associated with extended fixed frame awning or canopies.
REVERSE CHANNEL LETTER
A channel letter that has a face and sides but no back, and is pinned out from a background surface. When the neon tube inside the letter is illuminated, it produces a halo effect around the letter.
REVOLVING SIGN
A sign that has the ability to turn 360° because of the presence of an electric motor to drive its movable parts. All or a portion of the sign may revolve at a steady or variable speed.
ROOF SIGN
A sign structure that is erected on or above a roof or that is installed directly on a roof's surface.
SANDWICH SIGN
A moveable sign not secured or attached to the ground or surface upon which it is located, but supported by its own frame and most often forming the cross-sectional shape of an A. (Also known as "sidewalk sign.")
SIDEWALK SIGN
A moveable sign not secured or attached to the ground or surface upon which it is located, but supported by its own frame and most often forming the cross-sectional shape of an A. (Also known as "sandwich sign.")
SIGN
Any device, structure, display or placard which is affixed to, placed on or in proximity to, or displayed from within a building to attract the attention of the public for the purposes of advertising, identifying or communicating information about goods and services.
SIGN BAND
A horizontal area above a multitenant building entrance, architecturally designed to accommodate signage in a signcentric manner.
SNIPE SIGN
An overlay sign added to an existing sign layout, as an additional message to the main sign, for example a band across a corner saying "coming soon." Also a term for illegal posting of handbills and posters without permits.
SPINNER SIGN
A sign, either freestanding or wall-mounted, where the messages rotate in the wind. A spinner sign is not considered an animated sign.
SPOTLIGHT
A source of illumination for an extremely illuminated sign; a lamp with a strong focused beam directed toward a sign.
STATIONARY SIGN
A sign with a power cord for attachment to a source of electrical power that is not readily moveable or portable.
STONE SIGNS
Typically sandstone, granite, marble, limestone and other common decorative stone material. Letters can be stud-mounted to stone or they can be carved or incised into the face of the stone.
TEMPORARY SIGN
Any sign that is not intended to be permanently installed. Banners and signs at construction sites are good examples of temporary signs. Often, sign codes seek to limit the length of time a temporary sign can remain in place.
UNDER-CANOPY SIGN
A sign designed to be mounted underneath a canopy.
WALL-MOUNTED SIGN
A single-face sign mounted on a wall. (See also "wall sign.")
WALL SIGN
In the most literal sense, a sign that is painted on a wall. The term is often expanded to include flat signs that are placed on or attached to the wall of a building. These latter signs are also called fascia-mounted signs and wall mounts. (Also known as a "wall-mounted sign.")
WIND LOAD
The basic term for describing the design strength of a sign. Standard windload is 30 PSF (pounds per square foot), which can withstand winds up to approximately 90 miles per hour. Heavy windload is 55 PSF, which can withstand approximately 110 miles per hour.
WINDOW SIGN
A sign that is mounted for display on a window and intended to be viewed from the outside.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
Permanent signs whose existence can be substantiated by way of permit documentation and/or inclusion within the photographic record of Borough signage as of March 15, 2005, shall be considered grandfathered and given preexisting/nonconforming status so long as such signs are routinely maintained but not enlarged, extended or relocated. Grandfathered signs afflicted with damage equal to or greater than 50% from weather, etc., shall lose such status and any replacement or repair will be considered new signage subject to present regulations.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
A. 
There shall be established a Sign Review Committee whose purpose is to assist the business community with signs, the permitting process by giving nonbinding guidance to an applicant and to enhance the Closter business streetscape by encouraging appropriateness as well as creativity in proposed signs.
B. 
Composition: three full members, two alternate members. At least four of the members must be Closter residents. All members must have at least one of the following attributes: New Jersey licensed design professional (landscape architect, architect, engineer, etc.), sign industry member (design, graphics, etc.), local business person, or membership on the Borough Zoning Board of Adjustment, Planning Board, Historic Preservation Commission or Improvement Commission.
C. 
Duties. Upon request by the applicant, the Committee shall review new sign proposals for appropriateness. Provide guidance for design, size, color schemes, and location. Following the completion of this review, the Committee shall forward their written recommendations to the Zoning Officer.
D. 
Meetings: once per month, unless a special meeting is requested by the applicant.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
A. 
Upon considering aesthetic guidelines for design options as established by the Sign Review Committee, a zoning permit application shall be submitted to the Zoning Officer to ensure compliance with those criteria defined within this article. Said application shall include written permission from the landlord and three copies of plans depicting existing and proposed signage in color and drawn to scale.
(1) 
Note No. 1: An applicant may choose to appear before the Sign Review Committee prior or subsequent to filing a zoning permit application.
(2) 
Note No. 2: If a zoning permit application is denied, the applicant can opt to receive guidance from the Sign Review Committee before reapplying to the Zoning Officer or seek variance relief from either the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment, whichever has jurisdiction. However, use of the Sign Review Committee in no way extends the statutory appeal period.
(3) 
Note No. 3: The aesthetic guidelines are suggestions which shall become binding upon the adoption of part or all of these guidelines by ordinance of the Mayor and Council.
B. 
If applicable, upon issuance of a zoning permit, a construction permit shall be obtained from the Building Department for compliance with relevant building and/or electrical codes as per the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code. An applicant may appeal the determination by the Construction Official to the Bergen County Construction Board of Appeals.
[Amended 4-9-2008 by Ord. No. 2008: 1007; 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
A. 
General requirements (for all types of signage located in all zoning districts).
(1) 
Any new or altered sign requires a zoning permit with the exception of certain temporary signs as delineated herein.
(2) 
If applicable, signs defined by this article shall be designed and constructed in conformity with the provisions of the Uniform Construction Code and should meet the aesthetic guidelines established by the Sign Review Committee.
(3) 
Except for election, civic event, garage, yard sale and nonprofit signs, the content of all signs shall pertain only to the use within the premises upon which the sign is located.
(4) 
The building street address on an awning or door shall be visible to assist emergency service personnel.
(5) 
The name of the business shall be posted in the English language. Signs containing a language in addition to English shall contain information whereby both the English and other language(s) are equal in both dimensional proportion and translation sufficient to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the inhabitants thereof and the public at large.
(6) 
Signs may not be attached to trees or light/utility poles.
(7) 
The use of vehicles whose primary purpose is advertising is prohibited.
(8) 
The use of stickers is prohibited.
(9) 
Any signage located on or extending over a public right-of-way must be approved by the relevant governing agency (Borough, Bergen County, etc.) prior to installation.
B. 
Permanent signs.
(1) 
Wall signs. No wall sign shall exceed two square feet in area for every linear foot of storefront, up to 36 square feet maximum.
(a) 
A wall sign must adhere to the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code and shall be constructed of metal or integrated wood or other approved noncombustible materials, except for structural trim.
(b) 
A wall sign attached to the exterior surface of a structure shall not project beyond the ends or the top of the surface to which it is attached.
(c) 
A wall sign shall be parallel to, and not protrude more than 12 inches from, the wall of said structure to which it is attached. If the sign protrudes more than six inches from the surface to which it is attached, said sign must be positioned at least eight feet above the sidewalk or ground beneath it.
(d) 
A wall sign shall not be erected to cover windows or architectural details.
(e) 
If a building has more than one exposure, each exposed side may have an ancillary wall sign no larger than 50% of the principal wall sign.
(2) 
Awnings, canopies and marquees. No awnings, canopies or marquees shall be installed above the first floor of any building or structure; they shall be constructed of woven fabric, and all frames and supports shall be constructed of metal; they shall be constructed and erected so that the lowest portion thereof is no less than eight feet above ground level. Marquee signs may extend to within one foot of the curbline. Canopies and awnings may project no further than 36 inches from the building into the public right-of-way. No advertising shall be placed on any awning, canopy or marquee except for the address, logo, name and type of business conducted within the premises. Logos shall not be larger than 10% of the total space of the awning.
(3) 
Freehanging perpendicular/blade signs. These signs shall be limited to one per store occupancy and shall not exceed six square feet in area. They must have a clearing height of 10 feet and be erected and secured in such a manner as to preclude their becoming a safety hazard to the public.
(4) 
Ground signs. No ground sign shall exceed 16 square feet in area, and there shall be no more than one ground sign per property, except in Zoning District 5 (Industrial) where there may be one sign for every 75 feet of frontage. Such signs must be set back at least 15 feet from the curbline and cannot interfere with sight triangles. It shall be unlawful to erect any ground sign whose total height is greater than 15 feet above ground level.
(5) 
Pylon signs.
(a) 
Gasoline stations and automobile dealerships shall, notwithstanding other provisions of this article, be permitted one freestanding or pylon sign advertising the name of the station, agency, or garage, and for the principal products sold on the premises, including any special company or brand names, insignia or emblem, provided that each such sign shall not exceed 35 square feet in area on a side nor be erected within five feet of the property line and not less than 10 nor more than 20 feet above the ground. Such pole or pylon sign shall be illuminated only by internal illumination and shall be constructed according to the UCC. There shall be no light leakage beyond the sign.
(b) 
Shopping centers situated on more than three acres may erect pylon or pole signs. Construction, size and details are subject to approval by either the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment, whichever has jurisdiction.
(6) 
Directory signs. The total area of a directory sign shall not exceed one square foot per tenant or eight square feet in total, whichever is larger. A directory sign shall not be included into the computation of square footage for either ground or wall signs.
(7) 
Directional signs. Such signs shall not exceed 27 inches in length, 12 inches in height, and the top shall not be greater than 60 inches in height from the ground.
(8) 
Window signs. The maximum coverage of all permanent window signs located on all floors of a building shall not exceed 30% of all window space on each floor. Windows blocked completely by solid color or opaque paint are not considered signs. In multiple-tenant buildings, landlords shall apportion permitted space to tenants.
(9) 
Motion-animated signs. Such signs must be turned off no later than 11:00 pm.
(10) 
A-frame/sandwich board signs. They shall be displayed only during regular business hours and must be removed during nonbusiness hours. They shall be no more than 10 square feet in area on each side, no more than five feet in height and no more than three feet in width. Such installations must be approved by the Construction Official for safety. Only one such sign is permitted for each business and it shall pertain only to the use within the premises on which the sign is positioned. Each sign must be set back a minimum of two feet from the curbline or pedestrian walkway. This provision may be waived by the Code Enforcement Officer in the interest of safety.
(11) 
Memorial signs. Such signs must be approved by the Mayor and Council.
C. 
Temporary signs. All temporary signs require the issuance of a zoning permit. Temporary signs must be removed no later than 40 days following the date of a zoning permit being issued. All such signs must have contact information. The following temporary signs are exempt from the zoning permit requirement of this section: construction signs; municipal signs; traffic signs; legal notices; danger and emergency signs; window signs; real estate signs; election signs; educational/charitable/civic/religious signs.
(1) 
Street banners. Signage extending above thoroughfares must be suspended a minimum of 16 feet above any street and must be securely fastened to a building or structure dedicated to displaying temporary signs. The total area of such signs shall not exceed 18 square feet.
(2) 
Educational/charitable/civic/religious signs. Such signs shall not exceed 18 square feet.
(3) 
Rental signs (for-rent signs provided by real estate firms) must be removed within three days of closing or tenant occupancy. The maximum size allowed for residential and nonresidential signs is 24 inches by 36 inches and 48 inches by 48 inches, respectively.
(4) 
Real estate signs. Such signs shall be mounted on their own stakes and stanchions along any public street in a safe manner, without projecting over the curbline or pedestrian walkway, and must be removed by the end of the day in which a real estate showing occurs.
(5) 
(Reserved)[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Subsection C(5), regarding election signs, was repealed 5-10-2023 by Ord. No. 2023:1319.
(6) 
Business grand openings, closings and change of ownership or management, or special promotions. Such signs, including banners, flags, buntings, etc., shall be permitted for no more than 40 days, and no more than once in every twelve-month period, and only on the advertised premises. Banners must be securely installed as approved by the Construction Official and shall not extend upon or across any sidewalk or public property.
(7) 
Yard or garage sale signs. Application shall be made for special permits to erect garage or yard sales signs to the Construction Official or his/her designee, who shall assign a number to each permit upon payment of the required fee. No more than four temporary signs may be erected under each permit, each sign must show the permit number, and no more than two such permits shall be issued to any one address in each calendar year. Such signs shall not exceed three square feet in size and can only be displayed during a period including the day before and the day after the sale.
(8) 
Construction signs. No more than three construction/builder signs may be erected, without permit or fees, between the granting of a construction permit and the granting of a certificate of approval or occupancy, but not more than 12 months after the granting of the construction permit. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and shall be situated at least 15 feet from the curb. The total of all signage shall not exceed 36 square feet.
D. 
Sign illumination.
(1) 
Holiday lighting. For the winter holiday season, lighting may be installed after Thanksgiving and must be removed by January 15 each year. Other than the winter holiday season, holiday lighting is permitted 10 days before and 10 days after any other holiday.
(2) 
No uncovered neon or fluorescent bulbs are permitted on any sign. All internally illuminated signs must be shielded or covered in a manner so as to prevent the exposure of an uncovered light source of any sort providing direct glare.
(3) 
No illumination shall be permitted which may cause interference with traffic control signs or lights, or lights of an emergency vehicle, or cause interference with radio or television signals.
(4) 
Externally lighted signs, floodlights, or spotlights used for the illumination of signs shall be shielded to project light only onto the sign area and not beyond the sign, so there is no glare upon the street or adjacent property.
(5) 
Tube lighting used as an outline is permitted.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
Zoning District Nos. 1, 2 and 6: residential zones. The following signs, and none other, unless expressly permitted by another section of this article, are permitted to be erected in Zoning District Nos. 1, 2 and 6, and must be in conformance with the regulations in this article:
A. 
House numerals not exceeding one square foot per individual numeral.
B. 
Professional nameplates not exceeding six inches in height or 18 inches in length identifying lawful occupants of the premises.
C. 
Bulletin boards or signs not to exceed 16 square feet in area for public, charitable or religious institutions, where the same are located on the premises of said institutions.
D. 
Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings and the date of erection when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials.
E. 
Traffic or other municipal signs, legal notices, railroad crossing signs and danger and such temporary emergency or nonadvertising signs as may be approved by the Chief of Police.
F. 
Flags of the United States, the State of New Jersey or other governmental or quasi-public agencies.
G. 
Signs of any governmental agency deemed necessary to the public welfare.
H. 
Temporary election signs.
I. 
Garage and yard sale signs.
J. 
Real estate signs.
K. 
Religious institution signs located on the property of the institution.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
A. 
All signs must be maintained in good repair. Specifically, no owner or occupant of premises on which a sign is located may permit any type of deterioration, including the following conditions: chipped or peeling paint; torn paper or damaged lettering or material of any kind; illegible material, whether by reason of fading, obliteration or any other condition; a dirty, torn, broken or otherwise damaged awning, canopy or marquee.
B. 
All signs for which a permit is required, together with all their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be kept in repair in accordance with the provisions of this article and the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code. When not galvanized or constructed of approved corrosion-resistive noncombustible materials, signs shall be painted when necessary to prevent corrosion. If a sign is physically damaged, it must be repaired within 60 days.
C. 
Housekeeping. It shall be the duty and responsibility of the owner or lessee of every sign to maintain an immediate premises occupied by the sign in a clean sanitary and healthful condition.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163; 11-21-2016 by Ord. No. 2016:1215]
Every sign shall be subject, at any time, to the inspection and approval of the Zoning Officer, Code Enforcement Officer or the Construction Official. The inspection shall include a review of bonds and/or liability insurance for the sign(s). Failure to comply with § 173-87 (below) shall be grounds for revocation of a sign permit and the issuance of a notice of violation. The violation may be cured by submitting proof of compliance with § 173-87 within 10 days of the date of the notice of violation. Proof must be provided to and acceptable to the Borough's Building Department and Risk Manager.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163[1]]
A. 
Filing. A person shall not erect, install, remove, rehang or maintain over public or quasi-public property any sign for which a permit is required under the provisions of this article until an approved bond shall have been filed in the sum of $100,000 as herein required or until an insurance policy shall have been filed for public liability in the amount of $1,000,000 combined single limit, naming the Borough of Closter as an insured or as an additional insured as herein required.
B. 
Conditions. Such bond or insurance policy shall protect and save the Borough of Closter harmless from any and all claims or demands for damages by reason of any negligence of the sign hanger, contractor or agents or by any reason of defects in the construction or damages resulting from the collapse, failure or combustion of the sign or parts thereof.
C. 
Notice of cancellation. The obligation herein specified shall remain in force and effect during the life of every sign and shall not be canceled by the principal or surety until after a thirty-day notice to the Borough Clerk by certified mail, return receipt requested, if the cancellation takes place prior to the removal of the sign or banner.
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed former § 173-87, Fees and exemptions from permits and fees, and redesignated former §§ 173-88 through 173-92 as §§ 173-87 through 173-91, respectively.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
A. 
Abandoned signs. An abandoned sign shall be taken down and removed by the owner, agent or person having the beneficial use of the building or structure upon which such sign may be found within 20 days after vacancy of the building and/or tenant space. Twenty days after written notification and upon failure by the property owner to remove said sign, the Zoning Officer, Construction Official or the Code Enforcement Officer is hereby authorized to cause removal of such sign, and any expense incident thereto shall be paid by the owner of the building or structure to which such sign is attached.
B. 
The Zoning Officer, Construction Official or Code Enforcement Officer shall have the discretion to prohibit the erection and/or to order the removal of any signs he or she deems to present a hazard to the public or that has been erected without the application for and granting of the proper permits and fees, or in the case of signs which do not require permits, but do not conform to the provisions of this article.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
A zoning variance granted pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70, Subdivision D, which varies a use allowed in a particular district for particular premises, shall be deemed to vary the provisions of this article in the same respect for the premises.
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
Any interested party may appeal a decision of the Zoning Officer with regard to this article by filing an appeal with the Borough of Closter Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment (whichever board has jurisdiction over the application), as appropriate, within 20 days of the decision of the Zoning Officer. Such appeal shall be considered by the Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment in accordance with the standards and time limitations as contained in the New Jersey Municipal Land Use Act. Any interested party may appeal the decision of the Construction Official by filing an appeal with the Bergen County Construction Board of Appeals. See also § 173-82A(1), (2) and (3).
[Amended 5-14-2014 by Ord. No. 2014:1163]
Any person violating any of the provisions of this article, upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a penalty as set forth in Chapter 1, General Provisions, Article II, Violations and Penalties, of this Code. Violations of certain provisions of the Code may be enforced by the Closter Police Department, the Zoning Officer, the Construction Official and/or the Code Enforcement Officer.