[Amended 11-20-1989 by Ord. No. 1014-89; 5-17-1993 by Ord. No. 1148-93; 7-7-1997 by Ord. No. 1261-97; 11-19-2007 by Ord. No. 1613-2007; 11-15-2021 by Ord. No. 1972-2021]
The regulation of signs by this chapter is intended to promote
the public health, safety and welfare by reducing the depreciation
of property values caused by signs which are incompatible with surrounding
land uses; by creating a more attractive economic and business climate
within the commercial, resort and industrial areas of the Township,;
by enhancing and protecting the physical appearance of all areas of
the Township; and by reducing the distractions, obstructions and hazards
to pedestrian and auto traffic caused by the indiscriminate placement
and use of signs.
The regulations of this article shall govern and control the
erection, enlargement, expansion, alteration, operation, maintenance,
relocation and removal of all signs within the Township visible from
any street, road, sidewalk or public or private property. Any sign
not expressly permitted by these regulations shall be prohibited.
The regulations of this section relate to the location of signs, by
function and type, within zoning districts and shall be in addition
to the provisions of the Hamilton Township Building Code and the Hamilton
Township Electrical Code applicable to the construction and maintenance
of signs. Regulations concerning the use and termination of nonconforming
signs appear in other sections of this chapter.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
A sign or sign structure which has been left blank or displays
a product, service or business which is no longer located there for
a period of 30 days.
A retail sales establishment primarily intended to sell locally
produced agricultural products. An agricultural commercial establishment
may be seasonal or year-round and may or may not be associated directly
with a farm; however, it does not include supermarkets, convenience
stores, restaurants and other establishments which coincidentally
sell agricultural products, nor does it include agricultural production
facilities such as the farm itself, nor facilities which are solely
processing facilities. Such establishments shall not exceed 5,000
square feet of commercial sales area and shall conform to all highway
bulk, design and sign controls.
Any fixed device such as monuments, statues, or bands of
light or dynamic device designed or intended to attract attention
by sudden, intermittent or rhythmic movement, physical change or lighting
change, such as pennants, banners, flags, streamers, balloons, air
activated figures, propellers, whirlygigs, searchlights and flashing
lights.
A unit of illumination produced on a surface, all points
of which are one foot from a uniform point source of one candle.
A measurement of the amount of light falling on a real or
imaginary surface per unit area, often described as "light-level."
The footcandle is the English measurement of illuminance. In SI derived
units these are measured in lux (lx) or lumens per square meter (cd·sr·m-2).
An electronic, semi-conductor device that emits light when
an electrical current is passed through it.
A liquid-crystal display is a flat panel display, electronic
visual display, or video display that uses the light modulating properties
of liquid crystals.
A photometric measure of the luminous intensity per unit
area of light travelling in a given direction. It describes the amount
of light that passes through or is emitted from a particular area,
and falls within a given solid angle. The English unit of luminance
is the "nit." The SI unit for luminance is candela per square meter
(cd/m2). One nit is equal to one candela
per square meter.
A work of art, such as painting or a tile mosaic, applied
to and made integral with a wall.
A false front or wall extension above the roofline of a building.
Any object, device, display, structure or part thereof, situated
outdoors or indoors, which is used to advertise, identify, display,
direct or attract attention to an object, person, institution, organization,
business, product, service, event or location by any means, including
words, letters, figures, designs, symbols, fixtures, colors, illumination
or projected images. Signs do not include the flag or emblem of any
nation, organization of nations, state, city, religious, fraternal
or civic organization; also merchandise and pictures or models or
products or services incorporated in a window display, works of art
which in no way identify a product or scoreboards located in athletic
fields. Definitions of particular functional, locational and structural
types of signs are listed in this section.
The total square-foot area of sign surface, including all
parts thereof devoted to the background. The area of a sign painted
directly on a wall or awning and signs with letters attached directly
to walls or awnings shall be calculated by computing the area of the
smallest regular geometric figure around the outside of all elements
of the sign.
The vertical dimension measured between the grade and the
highest point of the highest element of the sign, excluding any incidental
structural element, such as uplift cable for a projecting sign.
Methods of illumination which may be divided into several
types:
GENERALThe sign itself neither is lighted internally nor has an external source of light specifically directed at it; rather, the sign depends on the general illumination of the area (e.g., parking lot, traffic or pedestrian areas) for its illumination.
INTERNALThe sign is made of translucent material with internal lights.
BACK LIGHTThe letters are raised beyond the sign's background and the cover-lighting sources which illuminate the background.
SPOTLIGHTThe sign is illuminated by spotlights specifically directed at it.
A sign intended to aid, directly or indirectly, in the sale,
use or promotion of a product, commodity, service, activity, entertainment
or real or personal property.
A sign for a permitted agricultural use whose function is
exclusively for advertising for the normal, incidental and customary
sale of products, produce or livestock raised on the premises.
A sign that includes action, motion or color changes, or
the optical illusion of action, motion or color changes, including
signs set in motion by movement of the atmosphere or made up of a
series of sections that turn.
A sign which provides special information, such as direction,
price, sales information, hours of operation or warning, and which
does not include names, brand names, or information regarding produce
lines or services. Examples of such signs include directories of tenants
in buildings, no-trespassing signs and signs which list prices of
gasoline.
A sign that is mounted or painted on or attached to an awning,
canopy or marquee which is otherwise permitted.
A sign which identifies an institution or organization on
the premises of which is located and which contains the name of the
institution or organization, the names of the individuals connected
with it and general announcements of events or activities occurring
at the institution, or similar messages.
A sign which directs attention to a business or profession
conducted or to a commodity or service sold, offered or manufactured
or to an entertainment offered on the premises where the sign is located.
A temporary sign erected on the premises on which construction
is taking place, during the period of said construction, indicating
the names of the architects, contractors, or similar artisans and
the owners, financial supporters, sponsors and similar individuals
or firms having a role or interest with respect to the structure or
project.
A sign which, by symbol or name, identifies a development.
It may also provide an index of uses (tenants) included in the development.
A sign erected for the purpose of displaying information
or an image using any form of electronic technology such as light
emitting diodes (LED) or liquid crystal devices (LCD).
Signs limited to directional messages, principally for pedestrian
or vehicular traffic, such as "one-way," "entrance," and "exit."
A sign fastened to or painted on the wall of a building or
structure in such a manner that the wall becomes the supporting structure
for or forms the background surface of the sign and which does not
project more than 12 inches from such building or structure which
advertises a company or business conducted on the premises.
The part of the sign that is or can be used to identify,
display, advertise or communicate information or, for the visual representation,
which attracts or intends to attract the attention of the public for
any purpose.
Any directly or indirectly illuminated sign which exhibits
changing natural or artificial light or color effects by any means
whatsoever.
A permanent sign supported by structures or supports that
are placed on or anchored in the ground or at ground level and which
are independent of any building or other structure, including, but
not limited to, pole or pylon signs or monument (ground) signs.
A sign erected and maintained pursuant to and in discharge
of any governmental functions or required by law, ordinance or other
governmental regulations.
A sign which is an integral part of a building facade. The
sign is painted directly on, carved in or otherwise permanently embedded
in the facade. Signs in shop windows are included unless they qualify
as auxiliary signs.
Temporary signs, in the nature of decorations, clearly incidental
to and customarily and commonly associated with any national, local
or religious holiday.
A sign containing only the name and occupation of a permitted
home occupation.
A sign giving the nature, logo, trademark, or other identifying
symbol; address; or any combination of the name, symbol and address
of a building, business, development or establishment on the premises
where it is located.
A sign lighted by or exposed to artificial lighting either
by lights on or in the sign or directed towards the sign.
A sign, tablet or plaque memorializing a person, event, structure
or site.
A sign, located on the premises, giving the name or address,
or both, of the owner or occupant of a building or premises.
A type of electric signs lit by long luminous gas-discharge
tubes that contain rarefied neon or other gases.
Any sign lawfully existing on the effective date of this
chapter, or any amendment to its rendering such sign nonconforming,
which does not comply with all of the standards and regulations of
this chapter or any amendment hereto.
A sign utilized for advertising an establishment, activity,
product or service or entertainment that is sold, produced, manufactured,
available or furnished; or promoting any activity at a place other
than on the property on which said sign is located.
A sign commonly associated with, and not limited to, information
and directions necessary or convenient for visitors coming on the
property, including signs marking entrances and exits, parking areas,
circulation direction, rest rooms and pick-up and delivery areas.
A temporary sign announcing or supporting political candidates
or issues in connection with any national, state or local election.
A temporary sign advertising private sales of personal property
such as "house sales," "garage sales," "rummage sales," and the like
or private not-for-profit events, such as picnics, carnivals, bazaars,
game nights, art fairs, craft shows and Christmas tree sales.
A sign that is wholly or partly dependent upon a building
for support and which projects more than 12 inches from such building.
A sign pertaining to the sale, or lease of the premises,
or a portion of the premises, on which the sign is located.
A sign that is mounted on the roof of a building or which
is wholly dependent on a building for support and which projects above
the point of a building with a flat roof, the eave line of a building
with a gambrel, gable or hip roof or the deck line of a building with
a mansard roof.
A non-illuminated sign constructed of paper, cloth, canvas,
light fabric, cardboard, plywood, light plastic or similar materials
that is capable of being moved and is not designated to be permanently
affixed to a building or structure or permanently anchored to the
ground. Examples of temporary signs include, but are not limited to,
real estate signs, construction signs, private sale or event signs
and political signs. A sign or advertising display constructed of
cloth, canvas, fabric, plywood or other light material and designed
or intended to be displayed for a period not to exceed 30 days.
Signs limited to messages of warning, danger or caution.
A sign that is applied or attached to the exterior or interior
of a window or located in such manner within a building that it can
be seen of the exterior of the structure through a window.
A.Â
Except as expressly provided in this article, no sign shall be erected,
enlarged, expanded, altered or relocated unless a certificate of zoning
compliance evidencing the compliance of such work with the provisions
of this article and other applicable provisions of this chapter shall
have first been issued in accordance with the provisions of this chapter;
provided, however, that routine sign maintenance, changing of parts
designed to be changed or changing the content of a sign in any manner
which does not change the functional classification of the sign shall
not, standing alone, be considered an alteration of the sign requiring
the issuance of a certificate of zoning compliance hereunder.
B.Â
In addition to the information and documents required by other sections
of this chapter, every application for a certificate of zoning compliance
for a sign shall be accompanied by a copy of plans and specifications
showing the method of construction, illumination and support of such
sign and a sketch, drawn to scale, showing sign faces, exposed surfaces
and proposed message and design, accurately represented as to size,
area, proportion and color; by color photographs of the street side
of the property in question, showing all existing signs on the property;
by a calculation of the total amount of sign area presently existing
on the property; and by the applicant's attestation that the number
of and the sum of the areas of the requested sign or signs and the
existing signs do not exceed the maximum allowable by the provisions
of this chapter.
The following general standards shall apply to all signs:
A.Â
Illumination. In no event shall a sign be illuminated by other than
a shielded or otherwise indirect, non-flashing light, preferably a
white light or a light from the interior of a sign with a translucent
face. In no event shall an illuminated sign be placed or directed
so as to permit the beams and illumination therefrom to be directed
or beamed upon any adjacent public or private premises so as to cause
glare or reflection that may constitute a nuisance or traffic hazard.
No illuminated sign located on a lot adjacent to or across the street
from any residential district and visible from such residential district
shall be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
unless the use to which the sign pertains is open for business. Illumination
related to any sign may not create an illuminance greater than 0.1
footcandle at any property line.
B.Â
Electrical elements. All wiring, fittings and materials used in the
construction, connection and operation of electrically illuminated
signs shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Township Electrical
Code. An Underwriters' Laboratories Label shall be affixed to every
sign having any electrical component.
C.Â
Structural elements. The construction and structural components of
all signs shall be in accordance with the standards and regulations
of the Township Building Code. In no case shall the structural elements
of a sign extend above the top of the sign face.
D.Â
Obstruction of accessways. No sign or sign structure shall obstruct
free ingress to or egress from a fire escape, door, window or other
required accessway. No sign of any kind shall be attached to a standpipe
or fire escape.
E.Â
Obstruction of window surface. No sign shall project over, occupy
or obstruct any window surface required for light or ventilation by
any applicable law, ordinance or regulation.
F.Â
Traffic safety. No sign shall be maintained at any location where,
by reason of its position, size, shape, content or color, it may obstruct,
impair, obscure, interfere with the view of or be confused with any
traffic control sign, signal or device or where it may interfere with,
mislead or confuse traffic.
G.Â
Signs in rights-of-way. No sign except publicly owned signs or signs
for municipally sponsored events shall be placed in or extended into
or over any public right-of-way, unless a conditional use permit there
for shall have been issued in accordance with the applicable section
of this chapter.
H.Â
Signs painted on walls. No sign shall be painted directly on a building
wall except a sign pertaining to a use carried on within such building.
A mural shall not be considered a sign.
I.Â
Sign identification. Except for nameplates and identification signs
for residential uses, all signs shall be plainly marked with the name
of the person, firm or corporation hanging or erecting the sign and
the sign permit number.
J.Â
Sign maintenance.
(1)Â
In the case of advertising signs as defined herein, the owner
of a sign, and in the case of all other signs, the owner of a sign
and the owner of the premises on which such sign is located shall
be jointly and severally liable to maintain such sign, including its
illumination source, in neat and orderly condition and good working
order at all times and to prevent the development of any rust, corrosion,
rotting or other deterioration in the physical appearance or safety
of such sign.
(2)Â
Unsafe signs. Unsightly, damaged or deteriorated signs or signs
in danger of falling shall be put in order or removed upon written
notice. Immediate compliance is expected for the repair or removal
of unsafe signs. If compliance is not achieved within the time period
specified in such notice, the sign shall be repaired or removed by
the township and the costs assessed to the property owner.
K.Â
Sign measurement.
(1)Â
Area to be included.
(a)Â
The supporting structure or bracing of a sign shall be omitted
in measuring the area of the sign unless such structure or bracing
is made part of the message or face of the sign. Where a sign has
two display faces back-to-back, the area of only one face shall be
included in determining the area of the sign.
(b)Â
Where a sign has more than one display face, the area of which
can be viewed simultaneously from any location, i.e., side-by-side
sign faces, all faces which can be viewed simultaneously shall be
included in determining the area of the sign.
(2)Â
Area of signs with backing. The area of all signs with backing
shall be measured by computing the area of the sign backing.
(3)Â
Area of signs without backing. The area of all signs without
backing shall be measured by computing the area of the smallest regular
geometric figure which can encompass all words, letters, figures,
emblems and other elements of the sign message.
(4)Â
Area of signs with and without backing. The area of all signs
formed by a combination of elements with and without backing shall
be measured by combining the area of such elements measured in accordance
with the foregoing subsections.
(5)Â
Height of signs. Sign height shall be measured between grade
and the highest point of the highest element of the sign.
L.Â
Projecting signs. All projecting signs shall be supported from the
wall or vertical support in accordance with the standards and regulations
of the Township Building Code, including the Electrical Code. No projecting
sign shall extend more than four feet from the wall nor shall be nearer
the curbline than two feet. Projecting signs shall project from the
wall at a 90° angle and shall not project from any building corner.
No part of any projecting sign shall extend lower than 10 feet above
grade.
M.Â
Signs near landmarks and landmark sites. No ground, pole, roof or
projecting signs shall be located within 50 feet of any lot line of
a designated landmark or landmark site if the sign or sign structure
is visible from such lot line at a point five feet above ground level.
N.Â
Sign materials. All signs shall have a surface or facing of incombustible
material or be of approved combustible material. Any glass forming
a part of any sign shall be safety glass, wired glass or plate glass
of thickness in compliance with the Building Code.
A.Â
Functional types. For purposes of this chapter, signs shall be classified as follows according to functions defined in Article III, Definitions and Word Usage:
(1)Â
Advertising Sign.
(2)Â
Agricultural Sign.
(3)Â
Advertising Vehicle Sign.
(4)Â
Animated or moving signs.
(5)Â
Attention-getting device.
(6)Â
Auxiliary Sign.
(7)Â
Bulletin board sign.
(8)Â
Business sign.
(9)Â
Construction sign.
(10)Â
Development sign.
(11)Â
Digital display sign.
(12)Â
Direction sign.
(13)Â
Flashing sign.
(14)Â
Governmental signs.
(15)Â
Historical or architectural designation signs.
(16)Â
Holiday decorations.
(17)Â
Home occupation signs.
(18)Â
Identification sign.
(19)Â
Memorial sign.
(20)Â
Nameplate sign.
(21)Â
Off-site advertising sign.
(22)Â
On-site informational signs.
(23)Â
Political sign.
(24)Â
Private sale or event sign.
(25)Â
Real estate sign.
(26)Â
Warning sign.
Except as expressly prohibited in Subsection G of this section
and notwithstanding any other contrary provision of this chapter,
the following signs may, subject to the conditions and limitations
hereinafter set forth, be erected and maintained in any district without
obtaining a certificate of land use compliance or a certificate of
occupancy or paying the fee required for such certificates:
A.Â
Governmental signs, provided that the content and size of any such
sign shall not exceed the requirements of the law, ordinance or regulation
pursuant to which such sign is erected.
B.Â
Nameplate signs, provided that such signs are limited to no more
than one facade, projecting or ground sign per occupancy, are no more
than one square foot in area and are illuminated only by an indirect
source of light. No projecting sign shall extend more than six inches
from the face of a wall. No ground sign shall be higher than three
feet.
C.Â
Warning signs, provided that such signs are limited to no more than
two facade or ground signs per occupancy, are not more than four square
feet in area each and are illuminated only by an indirect source of
light.
D.Â
Memorial signs, provided that such signs are limited to no more than
one facade or ground sign per occupancy, are made of durable materials,
such as bronze, stone or concrete, are not more than four square feet
in area and are illuminated only by an indirect source of light.
E.Â
Historical or architectural designation signs, provided that such
signs are limited to no more than one facade or ground sign per occupancy,
are no more than five square feet in area, are illuminated only by
an indirect source of light and contain no commercial advertising.
F.Â
Holiday decorations, provided that such signs shall be displayed
for a period of not more than 60 consecutive days nor more than 30
days following the holiday in connection with which they are displayed.
G.Â
Construction signs on residential or non-residential projects, provided
that such signs are limited to no more than one facade or ground sign
per zoning lot, are no more than 32 square feet in area, are illuminated
only by an indirect source of light and are maintained for no more
than 14 days following the conclusion of the construction in question.
The name, address and telephone number of the person responsible for
such removal shall be marked on the sign.
H.Â
Window signs. Temporary nonilluminated window signs advertising coming
events, special sales, contests, promotional activities and civic
or political activities maintained for a period of not longer than
45 days before such event nor more than three days after such event
and permanent nonilluminated window signs calling attention to compliance
with standards, association with credit groups or premium stamp promotions,
and the like, provided that the aggregate area of all window signs
shall not exceed 25% of the area of the window in which they are exhibited
nor block any window area required for light, ventilation or emergency
exit by any applicable code.
I.Â
Real estate signs, provided that such signs are limited to not more
than one facade or ground sign per lot, are not more than six square
feet in area per residential lot or 16 square feet in area per nonresidential
lot and are removed within seven days following the sale or rental
of the property. The name, address and telephone number of the person
responsible for such removal shall be marked on the sign.
J.Â
On-site informational signs, provided that such signs are limited
to a facade, window or ground sign of not more than two square feet
in area and not more than 12 feet in height above grade.
K.Â
Multifamily identification signs. Identification signs accessory
to a multiple-family dwelling, provided that such signs are limited
to no more than one facade or ground sign per lot, are no more than
six square feet in area each, are not more than five feet in height
above grade and are illuminated by only a concealed light source.
L.Â
Flags and emblems of a government or of a political, civic, philanthropic,
educational or religious organization.
M.Â
Private sale and event signs, provided that such signs are no more
than four square feet in area, are located entirely on the premises
where such sale or event is to be conducted or on the private property
pursuant to the owner's consent, are clearly marked with name, address
and telephone number of the person responsible for the removal of
such sign, are erected not more than 12 hours in advance of such sale
or 45 hours in advance of such event and are removed on the day following
the conclusion of such sale or event.
N.Â
Political signs, provided that such signs are not more than 16 square
feet in area if located in a commercial district or 16 square feet
in area if located in any other district, are limited to not more
than one per lot, are clearly marked with the name, address and telephone
number of the person responsible for the removal of such sign, and
are removed within 14 days following such election.
O.Â
Home occupation signs, provided that such signs are limited to no
more than one facade sign per occupancy, are no more than one square
foot in area and are not lighted.
P.Â
Advertising vehicle signs, but only on public transportation vehicles.
Q.Â
Agricultural commercial signs, provided that such signs are for the
purpose of advertising the sale of seasonal agricultural products
at an agricultural commercial (roadside stand) establishment. Agricultural
commercial signs shall not be placed in the road right-of-way and
can be no farther from the sale area than 300 feet. There shall be
not more than three signs per establishment, with a maximum area of
16 square feet for any individual sign.
R.Â
Agricultural identification signs, provided that such signs are limited
to one sign per driveway, are no more than 16 square feet in area
and are not placed in a road right-of-way or do not obstruct sight
triangles at the intersection of the road and the driveway. Agricultural
identification signs may contain the name of the farm, trademark of
the farm, owner's name, farm address and specialized products produced.
The following signs are prohibited in all districts and shall
not be erected, maintained or permitted to continue in any district:
A.Â
Animated or moving signs, except as expressly authorized by specific
district regulations.
B.Â
Attention-getting devices, except as expressly authorized by specific
district regulations.
C.Â
Advertising vehicle signs. Except as provided in § 203-141P above, no person shall operate or park any advertising vehicle on any street, on any public property or on any private property so as to be visible from any street.
D.Â
Temporary signs, except as expressly authorized in this section.
E.Â
In the Pinelands Area, new and existing off-site commercial advertising signs shall be subject to § 203-144.4 of this article.
F.Â
Neon signs. No new neon signs shall be permitted as of December 1,
2021.
G.Â
Miscellaneous prohibited signs.
(1)Â
Any sign on a tree or utility pole or painted on or otherwise
directly affixed to any rock, ledge or other natural feature, whether
on public or private property.
(2)Â
Signs which contain statements, words or pictures of any obscene
character or which contain advertising which is untruthful.
(3)Â
A-frame sandwich board, sidewalk and curb signs, except as specifically
authorized by specific district regulations.
Signs shall be permitted in the FA-10, FA-25, FA-70, RD-1, RD-2.5,
RD-4, RD-5, MV, R-22, R-9, GA-I, GA-M, GA-L and AG Districts as follows:
A.Â
Functional types permitted.
(1)Â
All signs permitted in any district without certificate or fee, as provided in § 203-141 of this article.
(2)Â
Bulletin board signs, when accessory to an institutional use
permitted or permissible in the district.
(3)Â
Identification sign, when accessory to a residential subdivision,
planned unit residential development or an institutional use permitted
or permissible in the district.
(4)Â
Business signs, when accessory to a commercial use permitted
in the district.
(5)Â
Digital display signs are permitted for the Township of Hamilton, police department, fire department, ambulance squad or similar governmental public service institutions subject to the illumination and design requirements in § 203-144.1H.
F.Â
Minimum setback required: for freestanding signs, five feet from
all lot lines.
H.Â
Special regulations applicable to specified signs. Signs accessory
to nonconforming uses in residential districts shall be subject to
the provisions of this section.
Signs shall be permitted in the NC, GC and IBP District as follows:
A.Â
Functional types permitted.
(1)Â
All signs permitted in any district without certificate or fee, as provided in § 203-141 of this article.
(2)Â
Bulletin board signs.
(3)Â
Identification signs.
(4)Â
Business signs.
(5)Â
Joint identification signs.
(6)Â
Digital display signs are permitted for the Township of Hamilton, police department, fire department, ambulance squad or similar governmental public service institutions subject to the illumination and design requirements in Section 203-144.1H.
C.Â
D.Â
Maximum gross surface area of signs permitted.
(2)Â
Window signs. Window signs shall not exceed 35% of the window
in which they are exhibited, nor block any window area required by
any applicable code for light, ventilation or emergency exit.
(3)Â
Facade signs. For each occupant, one square foot per linear
foot of building frontage occupied by the use, up to a maximum sign
area of 300 square feet per occupant. The primary identification sign
for any occupant shall not exceed 200 square feet. The maximum vertical
dimension for all signs is five feet.
(4)Â
Freestanding signs: 100 square feet.
(5)Â
Awning, canopy, or marquee signs: 125 square feet.
E.Â
Maximum height of signs permitted.
(1)Â
Facade, awning, canopy or marquee signs: 20 feet or no higher
than the parapet, whichever is less.
(2)Â
Projecting signs: 20 feet or no higher than the parapet, whichever
is less.
(3)Â
Freestanding signs: 10 feet to the top of the sign face, excluding
architectural elements.
(4)Â
Window signs: no higher than in a window on the level at which
the principal use takes place.
G.Â
Type of illumination permitted.
(2)Â
Indirect and internal illumination with white light is permitted.
(3)Â
Existing neon sign and other gas-type illumination shall be
permitted to remain in existence, if they were installed prior to
November 30, 2021.
(4)Â
No flashing, animated, moving or bare-bulb signs are permitted.
(5)Â
No window sign installed in a window above the ground floor
shall be illuminated.
Signs shall be permitted in the DC, HC and RC District as follows:
A.Â
Functional types permitted.
(1)Â
All signs permitted in any district without certificate or fee, as provided in § 203-141 of this article.
(2)Â
Bulletin board signs.
(3)Â
Identification signs.
(4)Â
Business signs.
(5)Â
Joint identification signs.
(6)Â
Digital display signs as an element of a freestanding sign.
(7)Â
One band of light utilizing LED technology no greater than three
inches in height may be incorporated as an architectural feature in
the design of the building. All LED lighting shall be constant in
nature with no flashing, changing of colors, or movement of light.
C.Â
D.Â
Maximum gross surface area of signs permitted.
(2)Â
Window signs. Window signs shall not exceed 25% of the window
in which they are exhibited, nor block any window area required by
any applicable code for light, ventilation or emergency exit.
(3)Â
Facade signs. For each occupant, one square foot per linear
foot of building frontage occupied by the use, up to a maximum sign
area of 300 square feet per occupant. The primary identification sign
for any occupant shall not exceed 200 square feet. The sign area may
be increased by 25% when the building is set back more than 200 feet
from the public right-of-way.
(4)Â
Freestanding signs: 200 square feet.
(5)Â
Awning, canopy or marquee signs: 250 square feet.
E.Â
Maximum height of signs permitted.
(1)Â
Facade, awning, canopy or marquee signs: 20 feet or no higher
than the parapet, whichever is less.
(2)Â
Projecting signs: 20 feet or no higher than the parapet, whichever
is less.
(3)Â
Freestanding signs: 35 feet to the top of the sign face, excluding
architectural elements which may not exceed 40 feet in height.
(4)Â
Window signs: no higher than in a window on the level at which
the principal use takes place.
G.Â
H.Â
Digital display sign standards.
(1)Â
Permitted freestanding signs which utilize digital display technology
may dedicate up to 70% of the overall sign area to the digital display
portion of the sign. The digital display portion of the sign may not
be stand alone and must be incorporated and framed within the signage.
The digital display area may not be subdivided into smaller sections
and must be treated as one contiguous, integrated, cohesive message
display area.
(3)Â
Maximum illuminance. No digital display sign may exceed 0.1
footcandle (1.07 lumens/square meter) at the property line where the
sign is located.
(4)Â
The digital display portion of a sign shall change messages
at intervals of no less than 15 seconds. Changes from one message
to another shall be accomplished by the change of all illumination
elements on the face of the sign simultaneously, with the provision
that the sign may fade to complete darkness and then re-illuminate
with or fade to the new message.
(5)Â
All digital display signs shall have automatic dimming controls,
via photo cell or software settings, that adjust the light emitted
by the sign during ambient low-light conditions and night so that
it is compliant with the sign illumination standards allowed herein.
White backgrounds shall not be utilized between dusk and dawn.
(6)Â
Prior to the issuance of a permit for a changeable-copy or EMC
sign, the applicant shall provide written certification from the sign
manufacturer that the light intensity has been factory preset not
to exceed the levels specified above.
(7)Â
The following digital display features and functions are prohibited:
continuous scrolling and/or traveling, flashing, blinking, twinkling,
spinning, rotating, and similar moving effects. All message changes
must be instantaneous in nature. No scrolling of messages shall be
permitted except as required for public safety messages.
(8)Â
All power to a digital display sign shall be supplied via underground
carrier, inside approved conduit and shall be installed in accordance
with the National Electric Code.
(9)Â
Digital display signs shall be properly maintained so that inoperative
or improperly lighted bulbs do not impair the appearance and legibility
of the sign. When malfunctioning, all digital display signs must then
be turned off or display a blank screen.
(10)Â
The digital display portion of any sign may only advertise businesses,
organizations, or facilities located on the site, products or services
offered by those businesses/organizations/facilities, public service
announcements approved by the Township of Hamilton, or urgent public
safety messages approved by the Township of Hamilton Police Department.
(11)Â
Digital display signs are permitted for the Township of Hamilton, police department, fire department, ambulance squad or similar governmental public service institutions subject to the requirements in § 203-144.1H.
C.Â
Number of signs permitted.
(3)Â
Facade signs parallel to the street frontage: one per street
line per occupancy.
(4)Â
Facade signs perpendicular to the street frontage: one per street
line per occupancy.
(6)Â
Freestanding signs: one per site along with one additional sign
which may utilize digital display technology which is dedicated solely
to displaying the price of fuel.
D.Â
Maximum gross surface area of signs permitted.
(2)Â
Window signs. Window signs shall not exceed 25% of the window
in which they are exhibited, nor block any window area required by
any applicable code for light, ventilation or emergency exit. All
permanent, nonilluminated window signs or decals calling attention
to compliance with standards, association with credit groups, premium
stamp promotions, and the like shall not exceed a total of 10% of
the window in which they are exhibited in square feet.
(3)Â
Facade signs. For each occupant, one square foot per linear
foot of building frontage occupied by the use, up to a maximum sign
area of 200 square feet per occupant.
(4)Â
Freestanding signs: 100 square feet. No freestanding sign shall
have more than two faces.
(5)Â
Fuel price display signs: 50 square feet.
E.Â
Maximum height of signs permitted.
(1)Â
Facade signs: 20 feet or no higher than the parapet, whichever
is less.
(2)Â
Window signs: no higher than in a window on the level at which
the principal use takes place.
(3)Â
Freestanding signs: 15 feet to the top of the sign face, excluding
architectural elements.
(4)Â
Fuel price display signs: 10 feet.
G.Â
H.Â
Digital display standards.
(1)Â
Fuel prices may be displayed on a distinct freestanding sign
utilizing digital display technology which may not be changed more
than once per day.
(3)Â
Maximum illuminance. No digital display sign may exceed 0.1
footcandle (1.07 lumens/square meter) at the property line where the
sign is located.
(4)Â
The digital display portion of the sign shall only be in operation
during the hours of operation of the business which operates the sign.
A.Â
For any commercial or business use, one sign may be included on a
freestanding sign wherein the current time or temperature, or both,
is indicated by digital display technology shall be permitted; provided,
however, that not more than one such sign shall be permitted on any
one frontage. Lighting changes on any such sign shall be limited to
the numerals indicating the item or temperature and to not more frequent
changes than once in every 15 seconds.
B.Â
No sign shall be larger than 16 square feet per sign face, nor shall
any sign have a height in excess of 20 feet. Every sign shall be set
back at least 10 feet from any street line and five feet from any
other lot line.
A.Â
Off-site commercial advertising signs.
(1)Â
No new off-site commercial advertising sign shall be constructed
at any location after the effective date of this chapter, except for
off-site outdoor signs advertising agricultural commercial establishments
in accordance with N.J.A.C. 7:50-6.109(a)2 in the Pinelands, provided
that:
(2)Â
Existing off-site commercial advertising signs, except for those
advertising Hamilton Township, shall not be permitted to continue
beyond December 5, 1996, unless:
(a)Â
The sign was in existence as of January 14, 1981, and is located
in the R-9, R-22, GA-L, GA-M, GA-I, RC, VC, GC or IBP Districts or
in that portion of the HC District located in the Pinelands Regional
Growth Area;
(b)Â
The sign was in existence as of January 14, 1981, and is located
in that portion of the HC District in a Pinelands Rural Development
Area consisting of Block 588, Lots 25-28 and p/o Lot 24; Block 591,
p/o Lots 28-30, located within 1,000 feet of a regional growth area;
or
(c)Â
The Pinelands Commission issues a waiver of strict compliance
authorizing the extension of that date for any particular sign.
(d)Â
The sign provides advertising for an agricultural commercial
establishment as defined in this chapter.
(3)Â
In addition to the standards in Subsection A(1) and (2) above, a billboard shall be permitted in the Pinelands Area provided that:
(a)Â
For any new billboard, the applicant can demonstrate that for
each new sign, a non-conforming off-site sign pursuant to N.J.A.C.
7:50-6.108(b) has been removed;
(b)Â
If a new or existing conforming billboard proposes to have a
digital or LED display, it shall meet the following requirements:
[1]Â
The electronic message display is programmed to
freeze in one position if a malfunction occurs;
[2]Â
The transition of one displayed message to another
displayed message is accomplished within one second or less;
[3]Â
The duration of the interval between the end of
a subsequent transition and the start of its subsequent transition
is at least eight seconds; and
[4]Â
The brightness of the display is automatically
adjusted based on ambient light conditions through the use of an integrated
light sensing device.
(c)Â
Except as provided in Subsection A(3)(b) above, billboards or other off-site signs shall not contain, include, or be illuminated by any flashing, intermittent, scrolling or moving light or lights. All sources of illumination shall be shielded or directed such that light is not directed towards the sky.
C.Â
Location. No new off-site commercial advertising sign shall be located:
(1)Â
Within 200 feet of any other off-site commercial advertising
sign structure located on the same side of the street or within 100
feet of any other advertising sign structure.
(2)Â
For signs having a gross surface area in excess of 300 square
feet, within 500 feet of any other such sign on the same side of the
street.
(3)Â
Within 100 feet from any lot line of any school, church, library
or similar institution or public park, (parkway, square or circle,
when located in a residential district) if the sign or sign structure
is visible from any such lot line at a point five feet above ground
level.
(4)Â
Within 100 feet of any residential district.
D.Â
Maximum gross surface area permitted per sign face: 60 square feet
in all districts where advertising signs are permitted with the exception
of the HC District, where the signs may be up to 700 square feet.
E.Â
Maximum height of signs permitted:
F.Â
Minimum setback requirement: none.
G.Â
Type of illumination permitted: no sign shall be illuminated except
internally or indirectly by white light.
A.Â
Signs accessory to nonconforming residential uses shall be subject to the regulations of § 203-143 of this article.
B.Â
Signs accessory to any other nonconforming uses shall be subject
to the regulations of this section.
D.Â
Temporary signs for special events or sales. Temporary signs advertising
special events or sales shall be permitted in all commercial districts
subject to the following:
(1)Â
The sign shall be erected and maintained in compliance with all applicable general standards (§ 203-139).
(2)Â
Maximum time limit for temporary signs: 30 days.
(3)Â
Maximum number of temporary signs per establishment: one. The
temporary signs shall be spaced at intervals no less than 50 feet,
with a maximum of five temporary signs per site.
(4)Â
Maximum number of times temporary signs can be placed on site:
three times per year.
(6)Â
Maximum sign area. In commercial and industrial zones, temporary
commercials signs shall be allowed provided that the total area of
all such signs does not exceed 32 square feet. In residential zones,
temporary commercial signs shall be allowed, provided that the total
area of all such signs does not exceed six square feet. Temporary
noncommercial signs, provided that the total area of all such signs
does not exceed 32 square feet on a property in all zones.
(7)Â
A temporary sign shall not exceed a maximum height of 10 feet.
(8)Â
No temporary signs may be located closer than 25 feet to any
property line.
(9)Â
The applicant shall be required to obtain a permit from the
Zoning Officer for temporary signage.
A.Â
The size, shape and character of the sign shall be in keeping with the historic character of the landmark, Historic District site or Pinelands-designated site on which the sign is located. The size of the sign shall not exceed the maximum for the type of sign shown on the following Figure 18-1 and shall otherwise conform to the provisions of Article XIII, § 203-139K(6).
B.Â
The visibility and scale of the sign shall be in keeping with the
architectural and historical character of the surrounding structures
and area.
C.Â
The signage for a particular building or shop should be reduced to
the fewest separate panels or statements as possible.
D.Â
Signs on buildings should not obliterate or obscure the architecture
of the building. A sign on a building should be compatible or integral
with it.
E.Â
Obsolete signage from defunct activities shall be removed unless
it is an integral part of the structure's historic architectural facade.
|
Figure 18-1
Maximum Commercial Sign Area by Type of Sign Permitted in Historic
Areas
Township of Hamilton, New Jersey
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sign Type
|
Zoning District
| ||||
|
VC
|
GC
|
DC
|
HC
|
NC
| |
|
Facade mounted
| |||||
|
Flat (square feet)
|
20
|
20
|
50
|
50
|
20
|
|
Swing arm (square feet)
|
12
|
12
|
16
|
16
|
12
|
|
Window (percent)
|
30
|
30
|
30
|
30
|
30
|
|
Freestanding (square feet)
|
N.A.
|
N.A.
|
100
|
N.A.
|
N.A.
|
|
Freestanding - pole swing arm (square feet)
|
6
|
6
|
10
|
10
|
6
|
F.Â
Many forms of modern lighting of signs are incompatible with the
historical integrity of a landmark or Historic District site. Such
lighting should conform to the following provisions:
(1)Â
Flashing, intermittent or moving-type illumination shall not
be permitted.
(2)Â
Backlit fluorescent signs, signs illuminated by neon or other
gaseous elements or materials and all other self-illuminated signs
shall not be permitted.
(3)Â
Floodlighting shall be so shielded that the source of light
shall not be visible from any point of the lot on which the sign,
building or structure being illuminated is erected and so that only
the sign is directly illuminated.
G.Â
Facade signs shall be installed so as to be flush with the exterior
wall of the site unless it enhances the historic properties of the
site.
H.Â
Post signs and hanging signs shall be permitted if they enhance the
historic characteristics of the site.
J.Â
The maintenance of a sign within an Historic District or affixed
to or on the lot of a landmark or Pinelands-designated site, whether
existing prior to the effective date of this article or otherwise,
shall require the issuance of a certificate of appropriateness under
the standards of this article. Owners of signs in existence on the
effective date of this article shall apply for and obtain a certificate
of appropriateness for their respective signs within five years of
the effective date of the site's designation, or their signs shall
be removed. The Zoning Officer shall record nonconforming signs in
conjunction with the Historic Preservation Commission.
K.Â
Interior signs which are intended to be viewed from the outside of
the building or structure shall conform to the requirements of this
section, insofar as they are applicable.
L.Â
A maximum one-foot by two-foot sign which displays the word "OPEN"
is permitted within the Historic District. Such sign shall be white
lettering on a black background and shall be backlit if illumination
is required.
