[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
This Part may be cited as the "Gettysburg Borough Sign Ordinance
of 2010."
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
1.
To promote the safety, welfare and convenience of users of rights-of-way,
relative to signage, while maintaining and enhancing the unique historic
character of the Borough of Gettysburg.
2.
To promote commerce while identifying places of business and historical
significance through signage in a visually attractive manner compatible
with the surroundings.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
As used in this Part, unless the context otherwise indicates,
the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
Any structure made of cloth or metal with a metal frame attached
to a building, projected over a sidewalk or other thoroughfare when
so erected as to permit its being raised to a position flat against
the building when not in use.
A sign utilizing a flexible substance on which copy or graphics
may be displayed and which is not permanently mounted.
A freestanding sign advertising a product or business not
located on the property where the sign is located and which is not
a traffic sign or a directional sign specifically permitted by this
Part.
The Borough of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania.
The Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg, Adams County,
Pennsylvania.
Any event initiated, organized, advertised, promoted, conducted
or approved by the Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg, Adams
County, Pennsylvania.
[Added by Ord. 1432-15, 9/14/2015]
A sign attached to any part of a building (in contrast to
a freestanding sign which is erected independent of any building or
structure).
Includes any structure, other than an awning, made of cloth
or metal, projecting over a sidewalk or other thoroughfare, attached
to a building and/or carried by a frame supported by the ground or
sidewalk.
A type of sign designed to accommodate a changing message
as follows:
Manually activated: the alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic
informational content of the sign can be changed or altered by manual
means.
Electrically activated: the alphabetic, pictographic, or symbolic
informational content of the sign can be changed or altered on a fixed
display surface composed of electrically illuminated or mechanically
driven changeable segments. Includes the following two types:
Fixed-message electronic signs: the basic informational content
has been preprogrammed to include limited information projection,
such as time, temperature, predictable traffic conditions, or other
content subject to prior programming.
Computer-controlled variable message electronic signs: the informational
content is automatically changed or altered by means of computer-driven
electronic impulses which cause the message to change, roll, flash
or present similar movement.
To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend, affix
or bring into being. This term shall also include the application
of paint for wall or window signs.
Any sign which is permanently affixed in or upon the ground,
supported by one or more structural members, independent of any building
or structure. Examples of freestanding signs include, but shall not
be limited to, pole signs, monument signs, and pylon signs.
The most-current version of the guidelines as adopted and
updated by the Borough for maintaining and rehabilitating buildings
in the Historic District.
The level at the site at the property line located at the
closest distance to the sign.
The Historic Architectural Review Board of the Borough of
Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania.
The Borough of Gettysburg Historic District.
The Gettysburg Historic District Ordinance as enacted and
amended from time to time by the Borough Council of the Borough of
Gettysburg.[1]
A sign incorporating a source of light in order to make a
message readable, including internally and externally lighted signs.
A permanent construction projecting from the wall of a building
above an entrance which may or may not extend over a sidewalk or other
thoroughfare.
A change in the wording of a sign that does not affect style
or lettering, symbols, shape, size, lighting or suspension and/or
the relocation of a sign that will not affect the historic character
of a building or streetscape as determined by the Borough.
A permanent freestanding sign supported primarily by an internal
structural framework or integrated into landscaping or other solid
structural features other than support poles.
A picture on an exterior surface of a structure or building.
A mural is a sign only if it is related by language, logo, or pictorial
depiction to the advertisement of any product or service or the identification
of any business.
A sign indicating only the name and/or address of an occupant
of the premises on which the sign is erected.
A sign which was validly erected under laws or ordinances
in effect at the time of its erection but which is in conflict with
the current provisions of this Part.
A sign advertising an establishment, merchandise, service
or entertainment which is not sold, produced, manufactured, or furnished
at the site on which the sign is located (i.e., billboards or outdoor
advertising devices).
A sign which carries advertisements incidental to a lawful
use of the premises on which it is located, including signs or sign
devices indicating the business transacted, services rendered, goods
sold or produced on the premises, or name of the person, firm or corporation
occupying the premises or site.
Any outdoor sign, display, light, figure, painting, drawing,
message, plaque, poster, billboard or other thing which is designed,
intended or used to advertise or inform.
Any person, firm, partnership, association, corporation,
company or organization of any kind.
A freestanding sign mounted on one or several poles or support
structures. For design reasons, pole signs may be fitted with pole
covers composed of metal, masonry, or other materials, designed to
enhance the visual appearance of the sign structure.
A sign that is movable and not permanently attached to a
structure or to the ground. Portable signs include, but are not limited
to, sandwich board signs, portable reader boards on wheels that display
changeable letters, trailer signs, and similar signs.
A sign which is attached to a building or other structure
and extends more than eight inches beyond the line or surface of said
building or structure.
A sign providing information or instructions for public convenience
such as, but not limited to, signs providing information about the
location of public rest rooms, snow removal routes, or public parking
lots and facilities.
A freestanding sign of which the entire bottom of the sign
is generally in contact with or in close proximity to the ground.
Pylon signs are vertically oriented and, typically, have a height
to width ratio exceeding three to one.
A sign erected on a roof, including a mansard roof or porch
roof, or a sign that projects above the highest point of the roofline,
parapet, or fascia of the building.
Any structure, device or object that incorporates lettering,
logos, colors, lights, or illuminated inert gas tubes visible to the
public from a building or structure, which either conveys a message
to the public, or intends to advertise, direct, invite, announce,
or draw attention to goods, products, services, activities, or facilities,
excluding window displays of merchandise or noncommercial items. The
use of the term "sign" in this Part shall not be interpreted as including
the supporting structure of a sign.
The area of a sign computed by multiplying the maximum horizontal
measurement by the maximum vertical measurement. Each measurement
includes all ornamentations surrounding the information area of a
sign, but does not include its supporting structure in either the
horizontal or vertical measurement for the purpose of calculating
the area of a sign.
Any temporary or nonpermanent sign advertising or pertaining
to any civic, patriotic or special event of general public interest.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
[Added by Ord. 1432-15, 9/14/2015]
A banner displayed in a vertical position and affixed to
a light standard; also described as a vertical pole-mounted banner.
A timepiece erected upon a standard upon the sidewalk or
parking area or on the exterior of a building or structure for the
convenience of the public and erected and maintained for the purpose
of advertising a place of business.
An overlay district created pursuant to the Gettysburg Borough
Zoning Ordinance with boundaries as shown on the Official Zoning Map
of Gettysburg Borough, Adams County, Pennsylvania.[2]
A sign installed for a limited period of time and not constructed
or intended for long-term use.
A sign placed or erected by authority of a public body or
official having jurisdiction for the purpose of regulating, warning
or guiding traffic.
A law and regulations enacted and promulgated by the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania which regulate the process of application, review
and inspection of aspects in residential and commercial construction,
including both new construction and renovations and repairs of existing
buildings. Also referred to herein as the "UCC."
A sign affixed to any building, fence, wall or structural
support member projecting out not more than eight inches.
A directional sign of the Borough, the Lincoln Highway Heritage
Corridor, the State or federal government which acts to guide the
traveling public to key civic, cultural, visitor, recreational and
commercial destinations to include, but not be limited to, the location
of a borough park, a borough parking lot, a borough building, a State
route or feature, the Lincoln Highway, and the Gettysburg National
Military Park.
A sign posted, painted, placed or affixed to the interior
of a window. A sign that faces a window exposed to public view and
is located within one foot of the window shall be regulated as a window
sign pursuant to this Part.
The Gettysburg Borough Zoning Ordinance, as enacted and amended
from time to time by the Borough Council of the Borough of Gettysburg.[3]
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
Only signs which refer to a permitted use or a use approved
by special exception or variance pursuant to the provisions of the
Zoning Ordinance are permitted, provided that such signs conform to
the provisions of this Chapter.
A.
Permit. Except as otherwise provided in § 19-105 hereof, no person shall erect, place, alter, locate or relocate a sign anywhere in the Borough until a sign permit for such has been issued by the Borough.
C.
Historic District. In addition to the requirements set forth in this
Part, the Historic District Ordinance and the Zoning Ordinance may
impose additional regulations and requirements for signs to be erected
in the Borough.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
Exemption from the permit requirements shall not relieve the
owner or person in control of the sign from complying with all other
applicable provisions of this Part. The following sets forth the signs
for which the issuance of a sign permit by the Borough is not required:
A.
Public service signs for directional or informational purposes approved
or erected by the federal, State or Borough government to include,
but not be limited to, street signs, wayfinding signs, traffic signs,
location of public facilities signs, and public utility information
signs. Such signs shall not be limited to the height restriction of
12 feet.
B.
Memorial plaques and cornerstones built in or attached to the walls
of structures, bearing only the name or use of the structure, the
date of erection of the structure and/or other text commemorating
a person, place or event.
C.
Historic signs or markers which have been approved pursuant to the provisions set forth in § 19-121 of this Part.
D.
Street address numbers or signs not exceeding one square foot.
E.
Nameplate signs, attached to a building or structure and not exceeding
2 1/2 square feet, denoting only the name and profession of an
owner or occupant. Only one such sign shall be permitted for each
business.
F.
Temporary signs of contractors, architects, mechanics or craftsmen:
(1)
If placed only on the property where such work is being performed.
(2)
If not exceeding 12 square feet for a single contractor. The
total area of all such identification signs on any one property shall
not exceed 50 square feet and the total area of all signs of any nature
on any single business property shall not exceed 50 square feet. Signs
shall be removed promptly upon completion of work.
G.
Signs indicating the private nature of a driveway, parking area or
some other property feature or "no trespassing" or similar warning
signs, provided that the size of any such sign shall not exceed two
square feet. Such signs shall only be erected and placed on the real
property where such driveways, parking areas or property features
are located.
H.
Temporary real estate signs:
(1)
For advertising the sale, rental, or auction of or at the premises
upon which the sign is erected, provided that the total area of any
such side of such sign on any one street frontage of any property
in single and separate ownership shall not exceed six square feet
in any Borough residential zoning district or in the Institutional
District (INS-1) and shall not exceed 32 square feet in any Borough
commercial zoning district.
(2)
Indicating the location of premises in the process of development,
provided that the sign area of any such sign shall not exceed 32 square
feet and no more than one such sign shall be placed for each 500 feet
of street frontage of the premises.
I.
Temporary window signs inside store display windows concerning special
sales. Such signs may be displayed for a period not to exceed 30 days.
J.
Temporary special event signs, including, but not limited to, window
signs advertising special events, provided that each such sign shall
not exceed 32 square feet per side, and provided that such sign shall
be displayed for a period of time not to exceed 30 days.
K.
Temporary signs advertising garage and yard sales shall be limited
to two signs with a maximum sign area of five square feet each. A
temporary sign shall be removed within four hours of the end of the
sale. All such signs shall be erected not more than 24 hours prior
to the commencement of such garage or yard sale.
L.
Signs containing political, religious or personal messages that are
placed on private property by the property owner or with the consent
of the property owner.
M.
Minor sign changes to an existing sign for which a permit has been
issued. Minor sign changes are limited to the following:
(1)
Minor repairs to the sign or sign structure which do not alter
the structure, size or height of the sign.
(2)
Repainting or touch-up painting relating to the maintenance
of an existing sign.
(3)
Minor changes designed to update the information on the sign,
such as, but not limited to, a change in a telephone number or the
times of business operation.
(4)
Changes in the message of a manually activated bulletin board
of a school, college, church, hospital or other similar institution.
N.
Temporary banners, interior to the campus of a college or university
within the Institutional District (INS-1). Such banners shall not
exceed 100 square feet.
O.
Street banners for Borough-sponsored events and street banners erected
by the Borough and displayed on a temporary basis for seasonal or
holiday purposes.
[Added by Ord. 1432-15, 9/14/2015]
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
The following requirements are applicable to all signs erected
or displayed within the Borough:
A.
Historic District. Signs erected and/or located within the Historic District shall conform to the provisions of § 19-121 of this Part and shall also undergo a design review by the Borough to determine conformity with the Gettysburg Design Guide prior to issuance of a sign permit.
B.
Streetscape Enhancement Overlay District. Signs erected and/or located
within the Borough shall conform to the design standards as set forth
in Part 19 of the Zoning Ordinance.
C.
Signs Located Along the U.S. Business Route 15 Corridor. The Borough
has designated U.S. Business 15 as a Pennsylvania Scenic Byway. The
ordinance, known as the "U.S. Business Route 15 Scenic Byway Ordinance,"
prohibits certain outdoor advertising devices along the scenic byway
corridor in accordance with the parameters set forth in federal and
State law.[1]
D.
Construction, Repair and Maintenance Requirements.
(1)
All signs shall be located and constructed in accordance with
the provisions of the Uniform Construction Code and the other provisions
of this Part. Where there is a conflict between the UCC and this Part,
the provisions of this Part shall apply. Where there is a conflict
between the provisions of this Part and any other ordinance, the more
restrictive requirement or provision shall apply.
(2)
All signs shall be structurally safe and constructed of durable
materials. All signs shall be kept in a good condition and repair.
(3)
Any sign containing or using electrical energy shall be properly
grounded in accordance with UCC electrical requirements.
(4)
Any glass used in a sign shall be safety glass.
E.
Size Requirements. The total square footage of sign area allowed
for a commercial property shall be determined as follows:
(1)
One square foot of sign for each linear foot of the frontage of the lot, but under no circumstances shall the total permitted sign area for a single business or activity exceed 50 square feet, with the exception of billboards in the Industrial District (IND), which shall be regulated pursuant to § 19-109H of this Part.
(2)
Double-faced signs, including signs which incorporate two sign
faces that are back-to-back and are not more than two feet from each
other, shall constitute one sign.
(3)
For more than one business having a common frontage on a single
commercial property, the owner of the property may apportion the total
sign area allowed among the several businesses occupying the property.
A commercial property having more than four businesses with common
frontage may exceed the 50 square foot sign size limit, but the total
sign area for each business may not exceed the linear foot measurement
of the frontage of that business.
(4)
In the case of a commercial property that has two separate street
exposures on two different public streets or alleys, the frontage
on each street or alley shall be treated as a separate facade.
F.
Height Requirements.
(1)
The height of a sign shall be measured from the base of the
sign or supportive structure, at its point of attachment to the ground,
to the highest point of the sign. A freestanding or monument sign
on a man-made base, including a graded earth mound, shall be measured
from the grade of the nearest pavement or top of the pavement curb.
(2)
Within the Historic District, the height of any freestanding
sign shall not exceed nine feet.
(3)
The height of signs located in all other districts outside the
Historic District, with the exception of the Industrial District (IND),
shall not exceed 12 feet unless otherwise allowed pursuant to other
provisions of this Part.
G.
Placement Requirements.
(1)
Signs located on or near a public sidewalk or similar pedestrian
walkway shall allow a minimum width of four feet of unobstructed area
between the sign and any other object which could impede pedestrian
traffic.
(2)
No sign shall project or extend over any pedestrian walkway
for a distance of more than four feet except for theater marquees.
(3)
No sign or portion of a sign shall project over an adjacent
lot or property line, with the exception of approved banners.
(4)
No sign shall be erected or placed in such a manner as to create
an unsafe condition for motor vehicle, bicycle or pedestrian traffic.
No sign shall be erected or placed in such a manner as to be confused
with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device.
(5)
No sign shall obstruct the free ingress or egress to or from
any door, window fire escape or other exit, or obstruct a window,
door or other opening providing light or air, or interfere with the
normal functioning of a building.
(6)
No sign shall be attached to a standpipe or fire escape.
(7)
No sign shall be painted or mounted on rocks, trees, or other
natural objects.
(8)
For the purposes of this Part, the location of signs shall be
exempt from the front yard setback and build-to line requirements
as set forth in the Zoning Ordinance.
(9)
All signs shall be located on the same commercial property as
the business except for off-premises business signs as permitted in
either the Industrial District (IND) or the Institutional District
(INS-1).
H.
Illumination.
(1)
Internally illuminated signs are prohibited within the Historic District and signs within the Historic District may only be illuminated by an external source of light. Further illumination regulations for the Historic District and the Borough's residential zoning districts are set forth in § 19-108D of this Part.
(2)
Externally lit signs shall be illuminated with all lighting
being shielded with steady, stationary light sources or otherwise
arranged so that illumination of the sign, rather than the source
of light, is visible from the public right-of-way.
(3)
Changeable signs which are electrically activated are required
to have automatic dimming capability that adjusts the brightness to
the ambient light at all times of the day and night.
(4)
The brightness and intensity of illumination shall not be greater
than necessary to meet reasonable needs of the business or use being
served. The intensity or direction of illumination of any sign shall
not be hazardous to the safe movement of pedestrian, bicycle or vehicular
traffic.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
1.
Roof signs.
2.
Signs which rotate or have motorized moving parts and signs containing
reflective elements which sparkle or twinkle in the sunlight. This
provision is not intended to prohibit the erection and use of barber
poles on a property where a barbershop is operated.
3.
Flashing, blinking, twinkling, spinning, animated or moving signs
of any type, to include but not be limited to signs with computer-controlled
variable messages, except those portions of a sign which indicate
time and temperature changes. This restriction specifically includes
window signs, signs on mobile stands and changeable signs which are
computer controlled to provide variable messages. This provision is
not intended to prohibit temporary holiday lighting or displays.
4.
Exterior signs that utilize strings of electrical bulbs.
5.
Signs that include words or images that are obscene, pornographic
or highly offensive to public decency.
6.
Signs affixed or displayed upon a tree, utility pole, street sign,
light pole, flagpole or other similar public property, except for
signs placed by the Borough or the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
7.
Inflatable signs and any moving object used for commercial advertising
purposes, whether or not such sign or object contains a message.
8.
Any sign attached to or placed or painted on a vehicle or trailer
that is parked on a public right-of-way or public or private property
so as to be visible from the public right-of-way where the sign is
used primarily as a static display for the advertisement to the general
public of a product or service or for directing persons to a business
or activity located on the same property or at any other location
and where the use of the sign is not incidental to the primary purpose
of such vehicle or trailer but rather for the primary purpose of advertisement
to the general public as aforesaid. This provision does not prohibit
the use of a temporary sign attached to or placed upon a vehicle or
trailer indicating that the same is being offered for sale by its
owner.
9.
Signs painted directly on any surface that is not a separate sign
substrate, except for a sign or lettering painted or placed directly
on a door or store window identifying the occupant or activity of
a building or structure. Exceptions may be made upon the recommendation
of the Borough's Historic Architectural Review Board for wall
murals or the repainting of historic wall signs in the Historic District
that can be documented to the satisfaction of the HARB.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
All signs erected in the Borough shall conform to a permitted
use or a use approved by special exception or variance as provided
for in the Zoning Ordinance. In addition, certain signs are restricted
to specified Borough zoning districts as follows:
A.
Off-premises business advertising signs to include national trademark
signs and company logos are permitted only in the Industrial (IND)
and/or the Institutional (INS-1) Zoning Districts consistent with
the following regulations:
B.
Freestanding signs are permitted in the following Borough zoning
districts: the Institutional-1 District (INS-1); the Residential Office
Redevelopment District (ROR); the Tourist Commercial District (TC);
the General Commercial District (GC); the Industrial District (IND);
and the Health Care District (HC).
C.
Permanent signage erected within the Old Town District (OT) is limited
to projecting and wall signs, except where the building or structure
associated with such sign is set back more than four feet from the
edge of the public sidewalk, and, in such case, the erection of freestanding
signs is permitted.
D.
Internally illuminated signs, including backlit awnings and signs
using electrically activated illumination, with the exception of theater
marquees and time and temperature signs, are specifically prohibited
in the Historic District and in the following residential zoning districts:
the Low Density Residential District (R-1); the Preservation Residential
District (R-1A); the Moderate Density Residential District (R-2);
the Residential Office District (RO); and the Residential Office Redevelopment
District (ROR).
E.
Street banners are permitted on a temporary basis in all Borough zoning districts other than the Old Town District (OT), where such banners are prohibited except for street banners erected and displayed by the Borough for Borough-sponsored events or for seasonal or holiday purposes. Street banners are permitted in the Institutional-1 District (INS-1) and in the Tourist Commercial District (TC) on a permanent basis notwithstanding the seasonal or event period-of-time limitations as set forth herein in § 19-109G(4), conditioned upon such street banners being erected and maintained outside of the public right-of-way on light poles or standards owned and maintained by the owner of the street banner, and further conditioned upon such street banners being kept and maintained by the owner in a good condition and repair.
[Amended by Ord. 1432-15, 9/14/2015]
F.
Street banners erected and displayed by the Borough for Borough-sponsored
events or for seasonal or holiday purposes are permitted and allowed
for display on a temporary basis in all Borough zoning districts.
[Added by Ord. 1432-15, 9/14/2015]
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
In addition to the provisions of the Uniform Construction Code
and other provisions of this Part, the following regulations shall
apply to particular signs:
A.
Building Sign.
(1)
Wall signs shall not extend more than eight inches from any
building to which the same is to be attached.
(2)
A projecting sign shall not extend more than four feet from
any building or structure to which the same is attached and such sign
shall not extend into any street, alley or drive or be less than eight
feet above any sidewalk or other public thoroughfare.
B.
Freestanding Sign.
(1)
Any freestanding sign placed within a public right-of-way shall
comply with all Federal, State and local laws and regulations governing
use of such public rights-of-way.
(2)
The allowable size of a sign shall not include the area of the
supporting structure unless otherwise allowed pursuant to the provisions
of this Part.
(3)
A freestanding sign shall have no more than two sign faces.
(4)
The following regulations apply to pole signs:
(a)
The height of a pole sign shall not exceed 12 feet.
(b)
A pole sign shall have a minimum of eight feet of ground clearance
measured from the bottom of the sign face when such is located within
the public right-of-way.
(c)
The area of a pole sign is to be calculated by measuring the
sign cabinet alone. Such sign area calculation shall not include the
poles or pole covers of the sign.
(5)
The following regulations apply to monument signs:
(a)
The ground clearance of a monument sign shall not exceed one
foot.
(b)
In determining compliance with the size requirements as set
forth in this Part, the measurements of a proposed monument sign shall
include the surface area of the sign itself and that of any supporting
structure or decorative elements of the proposed sign.
C.
Window Sign. A window sign shall not cover or obstruct any more than
40% of the surface area of the window glass.
D.
Portable Sign.
(1)
The height of a portable sign shall not be less than three feet
and shall not exceed four feet.
(2)
The sign area of a portable sign shall not exceed 12 square
feet.
(3)
The wheels of any portable sign shall be set in a locked position
when being used or displayed.
(4)
Portable signs located within a public right-of-way shall comply
with all Federal, State and local rules and regulations governing
use of such public rights-of-way.
(5)
Portable signs shall only be displayed during the time period
when the business associated with each sign is open.
(6)
No more than one portable sign shall be permitted for each business
located at a property.
E.
Awnings, Canopies and Marquees.
(1)
No awning or canopy may be erected so that the lowest part of
the same is of a height of less than eight feet above a sidewalk or
the surface of a public right-of-way.
(2)
All awnings, canopies and marquees shall comply with all Federal,
State and local rules and regulations governing use of such public
rights-of-way.
(3)
Only the name of the owner or the business or the activity conducted
on the premises may be placed on any awning or canopy. All lettering,
graphics and design on the awning or canopy shall be considered signage
and be included in the calculation of the total allowable square footage
of signage.
(4)
A manually activated changeable, internally illuminated sign
shall be permitted for use on theatre marquees only.
F.
Street Clocks.
(1)
Street clocks shall not be more than 16 feet in height.
(2)
Only the name of the business or activity conducted on the premises
shall be permitted to appear on a street clock.
(3)
Flashing or blinking lights may be permitted to appear on a
street clock only for the purpose of indicating the time and/or temperature.
(4)
A street clock that is not maintained in working order shall
either be promptly repaired or it shall be removed by its owner.
G.
Banners. Banners shall be used only for a temporary period and may
be used for off-premises or on-premises business advertising or to
announce special events. Specific requirements related to banners
are as follows:
(1)
The size of any banner may not exceed more than 10% of the facade
area of the structure on which it is used. The facade area is measured
by multiplying the height times the width of the side of the building
to which the banner is to be installed.
(2)
A banner that is used for on-premises business advertising may
be permitted for not more than 30 calendar days per calendar year
for each property for up to three separate times in a calendar year.
However, the erection of each banner shall require a separate permit.
(3)
A banner that is used for off-premises advertising may be allowed
only in the Institutional Zoning District (INS-1) and shall be permitted
only for the period of the event or activity not to exceed 120 days.
(4)
Street banners shall be permitted for erection and display on
a temporary basis for seasonal or holiday purposes, for special events
coinciding with the time period for the promotion and conduct of the
special event, and for a Borough-sponsored event coinciding with the
time period for the promotion and conduct of the Borough-sponsored
event. Such banners shall require authorization by the Borough and
may be affixed to Borough decorative light standards using framing
specifically designed for such purpose. Any banners to be affixed
to Borough decorative light standards shall only be erected and removed
by the Borough. The permittee shall be responsible for reimbursement
to the Borough of its costs where the Borough erects and removes any
street banner. Street banners used for off-premises or on-premises
business advertising shall be prohibited.
[Amended by Ord. 1432-15, 9/14/2015]
(5)
A banner which hangs across a State road, street or highway
requires the approval of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
A copy of such approval shall be provided to the Borough as part of
the sign permit application process. All such banners shall have a
minimum clearance of at least 16 feet above the vehicular right-of-way.
H.
Billboards.
(1)
Billboards, as either on-premises or off-premises advertising,
shall be permitted only in the Industrial Zoning District (IND).
(2)
Billboards shall comply with all applicable Federal and State
laws and regulations.
(3)
The total sign area of a billboard shall not exceed 100 square
feet per side, and the billboard shall have no more than two sides
or faces. In no event shall the aggregate sign area of both sides
or faces exceed 200 square feet.
(4)
No billboard shall be placed within 30 feet of the street right-of-way
line or within 10 feet of a side or rear lot line.
(5)
No billboard shall be erected or maintained within a five-hundred-foot
radius of any other billboard sign, or within a five-hundred-foot
radius of a residential zoning district or the lot line of an existing
residential use.
(6)
No billboard shall exceed 35 feet in height.
(7)
Illumination of any billboard shall conform to all applicable regulations as set forth in § 19-106H of this Part.
(8)
All billboards shall be of unipole construction.
(9)
The stacking of billboards and the use of side-by-side billboards
shall be prohibited.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
1.
Application Form. Application forms for sign permits shall be prepared
by the Borough and shall be made available to applicants at the Borough
office. A completed application form shall include the following information:
A.
The name, address, telephone number and e-mail address (if available)
of the applicant.
B.
The name, address, telephone number and e-mail address (if available)
of the owner(s) of the premises on which the sign is to be erected.
C.
The location of the premises on which or upon which the sign is to
be erected.
D.
The position or location of the proposed sign for the purpose of ensuring that the same meets the placement requirements as set forth in § 19-106G of this Part.
E.
Two copies of the design of the proposed sign to scale, to include
any plans, specifications and dimensions, materials, lighting, weight,
method of construction and method of attachment to the building or
the ground, or other structure relative to the proposed sign.
F.
The name and address of the person installing the sign.
G.
The installer of any sign (excluding portable signs) located within
a public right-of-way shall provide the Borough with a certificate
of liability insurance evidencing the Borough as an additional insured
with a minimum limit of coverage to be set and changed from time to
time by resolution duly adopted by the Borough Council.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: The current resolution is on file in the
office of the Borough Secretary.
H.
Any UCC permit required and issued for said sign.
I.
Any PennDOT Highway Occupancy permit required and issued for the
placement and installation of said sign.
J.
Any Borough sidewalk permit required to erect a sign within the public
right-of-way.
K.
Any such other information as may be required by the Borough to show
full compliance with this Part and any other codes or ordinances of
the Borough or any Federal or State laws or regulations.
2.
Issuance of Permit. With the exception of signs exempted from the permit requirements as set forth in § 19-105 of this Part, the Borough shall issue a permit after determining that the application form and the accompanying fee and information are complete and accurate, that the proposed sign is in compliance with the provisions of this Part, and that no aspect of the proposed sign conflicts with any other codes and ordinances of the Borough. As a part of the permit approval process, the Borough shall have the right to conduct an on-site inspection of the premises upon which the proposed sign is to be located. Signs within the Historic District shall be reviewed for conformity to the guidelines for signs contained in the Gettysburg Design Guide.
A.
When the provisions of this Part have been met, the Borough shall
issue the requested sign permit no later than 15 business days after
receipt of a complete and accurate application with all attachments
and the applicable application fee.
B.
Once issued, a sign permit shall be valid for a period of one year
from the date of issuance, and all work for which the permit has been
issued shall be completed within that period of time.
3.
Revocation of Permits. The Borough may revoke any sign permit upon
failure of the applicant to comply with any provision of this Part
or any other codes or ordinances of the Borough.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
1.
Unsafe. If the Borough shall find that any sign or other advertising
structure regulated herein is unsafe or insecure, or is otherwise
established to be a nuisance by the Borough, the Borough shall give
written notice to the permittee thereof. If the permittee fails to
remove or alter the structure so as to comply with the regulations
herein set forth within 10 business days after such notice, the Borough
is authorized to remove or alter the sign and to collect, in the manner
provided by law, the costs associated with such removal, together
with a penalty of an additional 10% from the owner of the sign or
of the property. The Borough may cause any sign or other advertising
structure that constitutes an existing and immediate danger to persons
or property to be removed without prior notice.
2.
Abandoned. When a permanent sign no longer advertises an existing
business conducted on the premises for 12 consecutive months, the
sign shall be presumed to be abandoned. The Borough, upon determining
that all business operations have ceased for a period of 12 consecutive
months, and noting that a sign exists, shall notify the owner of the
premises in writing that the owner must either provide to the Borough
satisfactory written evidence that the sign was not abandoned or remove
the sign within 45 days after the date of the notice.
3.
Illegal. If the Borough shall find that a sign has been placed without
the required permit or is in violation of any condition set forth
in the sign permit issued by the Borough or is in violation of any
regulation contained in this Part, it shall give written notice to
the person owning the property where the illegal sign is erected or
to the permittee or owner of the sign. The illegal sign shall be removed
by the person owning the property or the permittee, as applicable,
within 10 business days after such notice.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
The Borough Manager is hereby designated to administer and enforce
this Part. The Borough Manager may, as necessary and appropriate,
delegate administration and enforcement authority and functions, in
connection with the administration of this Part, to other members
of the Borough's administrative staff. The Borough Manager shall
have authority to issue permits with reasonable de minimus adjustments
to the regulations set forth in this Part.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
1.
Nonconforming signs may be repaired or reconstructed, provided that
no structural alterations are made which increase the gross surface
area of the sign. If more than 50% of the structure of a nonconforming
sign is damaged or destroyed, the sign shall not be reconstructed
except in conformity with the provisions of this Part. If damage to
the structure of a nonconforming sign is 50% or less, the sign may
be repaired or reconstructed, provided that the restoration is completed
within 45 days of the damage or destruction.
2.
Nonconforming signs shall not be enlarged, added to or replaced by
another nonconforming sign, use or structure. Normal maintenance of
nonconforming signs, changing of copy, replacing of a sign face, necessary
repairs and incidental alterations, which do not extend, increase
or intensify the nonconforming features of the sign, is permitted.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
Any person who shall be convicted of a violation of any provision
of this Part shall be sentenced to pay a fine of not more than $600.
Every day that a violation of this Part continues shall constitute
a separate offense.
[Ord. 1373-10, 3/8/2010]
1.
General. Signs erected and/or located within the Historic District
shall conform to all applicable provisions and regulations contained
in this Part and, in addition, must undergo a design review by the
Borough for conformity with the guidelines set forth in the Gettysburg
Design Guide. The Borough may determine that a review by HARB is necessary
prior to the issuance of a sign permit pursuant to the criteria set
forth in the Historic District Ordinance.[1]
2.
Historic Markers. Historic markers shall not be considered as signs
for the purpose of this Part, but will be reviewed by HARB consistent
with the Historic District Ordinance.
3.
Placement.
A.
Permanent signs erected in the Historic District shall not cover
architectural details, to include, but not be limited to, arches,
sills, moldings, cornices and transom windows.
B.
No sign or permanent external advertising display of any kind shall
be erected, altered or used in the Historic District except for advertising
or informing the public of service, business, occupation or profession
carried on, in or about the property on which such sign or permanent
external advertising display appears.
4.
Procedures. When the Borough determines that HARB review is needed
for a sign proposed to be erected in the Historic District, the following
procedures shall apply:
A.
HARB shall consider the appropriateness of the proposed sign to the
Historic District at its next regularly scheduled meeting.
B.
In its considerations, HARB shall take into account the appropriateness
to the architectural style and the period of the building or other
structure at which it will be located, material composition, shape,
overall design, type of lettering, illustrative material or logo,
spacing, lighting, suspension, accuracy or statements on the sign
pertaining to historical or architectural matters, and compatibility
of these factors with other signs in the Historic District. In addition,
the HARB may advise on matters of grammar, spelling and punctuation,
but HARB may not make a recommendation of denial based on these grounds.
C.
Upon a HARB recommendation for approval, the Borough shall issue
a sign permit within 10 business days.
