The regulations contained within Article III shall apply to all uses within the Township.
A. 
Access drives shall be provided in accordance with § 178-36 of the SALDO.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
B. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-36 of the SALDO that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter; and
C. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-36 of the SALDO that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
A. 
Every new principal use created and/or building hereafter erected or moved shall be on a lot with frontage along a public street or approved private street.
B. 
Outparcel lots are also permitted provided that they have adequate vehicular access in accordance with this section and such uses shall be accompanied by a cross access easement in a form acceptable to the Township Solicitor. Outparcels relying upon an internal vehicular road network shall be designed to avoid excessive queuing across parking aisles.
C. 
All structures shall be sited on lots in such manner to provide for safe and convenient access for servicing, fire protection, waste collection, required off-street parking and loading spaces.
D. 
Approved access shall be in accordance with § 178-32L of the SALDO,[1] for street design or as subsequently provided for by the Township. Access to lots containing single-family dwellings and farms shall be via driveways (see § 205-24); access to lots containing other uses shall be via access drives (see § 205-20).
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
A. 
Clear sight triangles shall be provided in accordance with § 178-32I(5) of the SALDO.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
B. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-32I(5) of the SALDO that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter; and
C. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-32I(5) of the SALDO that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
A. 
In those instances where open space is required elsewhere in this chapter, or when an applicant proposes the use of open space, such open space shall comply with the following:
B. 
Required open space design. Required open space shall be designed and arranged to achieve at least one of the following objectives, and the applicant shall demonstrate those specific measures employed to achieve these objectives:
(1) 
Protection of important natural resources (e.g., streams, ponds, wetlands, steep slopes, woodlands, unique geologic features, wildlife habitats, aquifer recharge areas, sinkhole, etc.);
(2) 
Protection of important historical and/or archaeological sites;
(3) 
Provision of usable play and recreation areas that are conveniently accessible to residents within the development and the Township; and
(4) 
Integration of greenbelts throughout the development that link residences with on-site or adjoining parks, schools or other similar features.
C. 
Ownership and maintenance. An essential element of the provision of open space is a written description regarding its ownership and/or disposition. Such ownership and/or disposition shall be accomplished through any of the following:
(1) 
An offer of dedication to the Township. The Township shall not be obligated to accept dedication of the common open space;
(2) 
With permission of the Township, and with an appropriate conservation easement as specified in § 205-23D of this chapter, the developer may transfer ownership of the common open space or a portion thereof to a private, nonprofit organization among whose purposes is the preservation of open space land and/or natural resources. The organization shall be a bona fide conservation organization with a perpetual existence, the conveyance must contain appropriate provision for reverter or retransfer if the organization is unable to maintain the land, and the organization must enter into a maintenance agreement with the Township; and/or
(3) 
The developer shall provide for and establish an organization for the ownership and maintenance of the common open space which shall be generally consistent with the requirements for unit owners; associations found in the Pennsylvania Uniform Condominium Act[1] or the Pennsylvania Planned Community Development Act.[2] If such an organization is created, the agreements of sale and deeds for all lots shall contain the following requirements in language acceptable to the Township Solicitor:
(a) 
Such organization shall not dispose of the common open space by sale or otherwise, except to the Township unless the Township has given prior written approval. Such transfer shall be made only to another organization which shall maintain the common open space in accordance with this chapter;
(b) 
The organization and all lot owners shall enter into a maintenance agreement with the Township and shall agree to be bound by the provisions of Article VII of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code[3] relating to the maintenance of deteriorating common open space by municipalities; and
[3]
Editor's Note: See 53 P.S. § 10701 et seq.
(c) 
The Township may require the establishment of a reserve fund to which the Township shall be named designated beneficiary, to provide for maintenance of or capital improvements to the common open space.
[1]
Editor's Note: See 68 Pa.C.S.A. § 3101 et seq.
[2]
Editor's Note: See 68 Pa.C.S.A. § 5101 et seq.
D. 
Permanent protection of common open space. Required common open space shall be subject to permanent conservation easements in a form that is acceptable to the Township Solicitor. Such conservation easement shall limit future development and define the range of permitted activities. (For example, the clearing of woodland habitat shall generally be prohibited, except as necessary to create trails, active recreation facilities, and/or to install subsurface septic disposal systems or spray irrigation facilities.)
A. 
Number per lot. No more than two driveway connections per lot frontage shall be permitted;
B. 
Setbacks. Driveways shall not connect with a public street within 40 feet of the right-of-way lines of any intersecting streets; except that driveways may connect with a local street as listed in § 205-39 of this chapter directly opposite another local street or access drive. Driveways shall not connect with a public street within five feet of a fire hydrant. Furthermore, no part of a driveway shall be located within five feet from any adjoining side lot line, except as permitted in §§ 205-24K, 205-24L, 205-24M, and 205-24N of this chapter;
C. 
Clear sight triangle. Driveways shall be located and constructed so that a clear sight triangle of 75 feet as measured along the street center line and five feet along the driveway center line is maintained; no permanent obstructions and/or plant materials over 30 inches high shall be placed within this area.
D. 
Adequate sight distance. Adequate sight distance shall be provided in accordance with prevailing PennDOT standards. Deviations from these requirements that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO[1] and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter. Deviations from these requirements that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
E. 
Slope. A driveway shall not exceed a slope of 5% within 25 feet of the street right-of-way lines, nor 15% at any point.
F. 
Road classification. Driveway access shall be provided to the street of lesser classification when there is more than one street classification involved.
G. 
Driveway surface, width and apron. No driveway shall provide a curb cut exceeding 24 feet in width between the abutting street cartway and the street right-of-way. All driveways shall be paved or be constructed with a paved apron that extends from the street cartway to a depth of at least 25 feet onto the subject property. Beyond the paved apron all driveways shall be provided with a dust-free surface or in the alternative a fifty-foot-long gravel section of driveway shall be placed just beyond the preceding paved apron to help collect any mud that may have attached to a vehicle's wheels;
H. 
Required permit. Any driveway intersecting with a state-owned road shall require the issuance of a highway occupancy permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Any driveway intersecting with a Township-owned road shall require the issuance of a driveway permit from the Township in accordance with § 174-10 of the Code of Dickinson Township.
I. 
Drainage. Driveways shall be constructed in a manner consistent with the design, maintenance, and drainage of the street.
J. 
Vertical clearance. Driveways shall maintain a height of at least 12 feet that is clear of obstructions and vegetation to facilitate emergency vehicle access.
K. 
Townhouses on individual lots are permitted to utilize front-yard driveways and garages, if such driveways are only connected to local roads, and comply with the following regulations as depicted in the following diagram:
(1) 
Such driveways must be separate on each lot and shall accommodate at least two of the required three off-street parking spaces;
(2) 
Such driveway shall be at least 40 feet in length when single-width driveways are used without a garage (see Lot 7);
(3) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when single-width driveways are used with a garage (see Lot 4);
(4) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when double-width driveways are used with or without a garage (see Lot 3);
(5) 
Such driveways must be set back at least:
(a) 
Two feet from any lot line of an adjoining townhouse (see common lot lines between Lots 1 and 2 and 5 and 6 and see the inset in the following diagram);
(b) 
Thirty feet from the right-of-way of any street or alley which does not connect with the driveway (see Lot 1);
(c) 
Twenty feet from the lot line of an end unit that abuts another end unit or a non-townhouse use (see Lot 7); and
(d) 
Five feet from the closest point of any building other than a garage (see Lot 1).
(6) 
No individual driveway shall be narrower than 10 feet (see Lot 7);
(7) 
Garages must be attached to, and rely upon, a driveway as permitted above;
(8) 
Garages must be set back at least:
(a) 
Twenty feet from the street right-of-way (see Lot 4);
(b) 
Five feet from any lot line of an adjoining townhouse that does not share an attached garage (see common property line between Lots 4 and 5);
(c) 
Five feet, from the townhouse building when the garage is a freestanding building (see Lots 3 and 4); and
(d) 
Twenty feet from the lot line of an end unit that abuts another end unit or a non-townhouse use (see Lot 7).
L. 
Townhouses on individual lots are permitted to utilize rear yard driveways and garages, if such driveways and garages comply with the following requirements as depicted in the following diagram:
(1) 
Such driveways must be separate on each lot and shall accommodate at least two of the required three off-street parking spaces;
(2) 
Such driveway shall be at least 40 feet in length when single-width driveways are used without a garage (see Lot 7);
(3) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when single-width driveways are used with a garage (see Lot 4);
(4) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when double-width driveways are used with or without a garage (see Lot 3);
(5) 
Such driveways must be set back at least:
(a) 
Two feet from any lot line of an adjoining townhouse (see common lot lines between Lots 1 and 2 and 5 and 6);
(b) 
Thirty feet from the right-of-way of any street or alley which does not connect with the driveway (see Lot 1);
(c) 
Twenty feet from the lot line of an end unit that abuts another end unit or a non-townhouse use (see Lot 7); and
(d) 
Five feet from the closest point of any building other than a garage.
(6) 
No individual driveway shall be narrower than 10 feet (see Lot 7);
(7) 
Garages must be attached to, and rely upon, a driveway as permitted above;
(8) 
Garages must be set back at least:
(a) 
Twenty feet from the rear lot line or alley cartway whichever provides the greater setback (see Lot 4);
(b) 
Five feet from any lot line of an adjoining townhouse that does not share an attached garage (see common property line between Lot 5);
(c) 
Five feet from the townhouse building when the garage is a freestanding building (see Lot 6); and
(d) 
Twenty feet from the lot line of an end unit that abuts another end unit or a non-townhouse use (see Lot 7).
M. 
Townhouses on common property are permitted to utilize front-yard driveways and garages, if such driveways are only connected to local roads, and comply with the following requirements as depicted in the following diagram:
(1) 
Such driveways must be separate for each unit and shall accommodate at least two of the required three off-street parking spaces;
(2) 
Such driveway shall be at least 40 feet in length when single-width driveways are used without a garage (see Unit 7);
(3) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when single-width driveways are used with a garage (see Unit 4);
(4) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when double-width driveways are used with or without a garage (see Unit 3);
(5) 
Such driveways must be set back at least:
(a) 
Four feet from any other driveway of an attached townhouse (see between Units 1 and 2 and 5 and 6 in the following diagram);
(b) 
Thirty feet from the right-of-way of any street or alley which does not connect with the driveway (see Unit 1);
(c) 
Twenty feet from a property line or a non-townhouse use or 40 feet from any other driveway of an end unit that abuts another end unit (see Unit 7); and
(d) 
Five feet from the closest point of any building other than a garage (see Unit 1).
(6) 
No individual driveway shall be narrower than 10 feet (see Unit 7);
(7) 
Garages must be attached to, and rely upon, a driveway as permitted above;
(8) 
Garages must be set back at least:
(a) 
Twenty feet from the street right-of-way (see Unit 4);
(b) 
Ten feet from any garage of an adjoining townhouse that does not share an attached garage (see Units 4 and 5);
(c) 
Five feet from the townhouse building when the garage is a freestanding building (see Units 3 and 4); and
(d) 
Twenty feet from a property line or a non-townhouse use or 40 feet from any other driveway of an end unit that abuts another end unit (see Unit 7).
N. 
Townhouses on common property are permitted to utilize rear yard driveways and garages, if such driveways are designed and constructed to comply with the following requirements depicted in the following diagram:
(1) 
Such driveways must be separate for each unit and shall accommodate at least two of the required three off-street parking spaces;
(2) 
Such driveway shall be at least 40 feet in length when single-width driveways are used without a garage (see Unit 7);
(3) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when single-width driveways are used with a garage (see Unit 4);
(4) 
Such driveway shall be at least 20 feet in length when double-width driveways are used with or without a garage (see Units 2 and 3);
(5) 
Such driveways must be set back at least:
(a) 
Four feet from any other driveway of an attached townhouse (see between Units 1 and 2 and 5 and 6 and see the inset in the above diagram);
(b) 
Thirty feet from the right-of-way of any street or alley which does not connect with the driveway (see Unit 1);
(c) 
Twenty feet from a property line or a non-townhouse use or 40 feet from any other driveway of an end unit that abuts another end unit (see Unit 7); and
(d) 
Five feet from the closest point of any building other than a garage (see Unit 6).
(6) 
No individual driveway shall be narrower than 10 feet (see Unit 7);
(7) 
Garages must be attached to, and rely upon, a driveway as permitted above;
(8) 
Garages must be set back at least:
(a) 
Twenty feet from the rear lot line or alley cartway whichever provides the greater setback (see Unit 4);
(b) 
Ten feet from any garage of an adjoining townhouse that does not share an attached garage;
(c) 
Five feet, from the townhouse building when the garage is a freestanding building (see Units 3 and 4); and
(d) 
Twenty feet from a property line or a non-townhouse use or 40 feet from any other driveway of an end unit that abuts another end unit (see Unit 7).
A. 
Notwithstanding § 205-7, more than one principal use may be established on a single lot only when each use complies with i) all of the lot area, yard and other requirements of this chapter (including but not limited to § 205-21 of this chapter) as though it were on an individual lot, ii) all of the requirements for an individual lot under the SALDO[1] as though it were on an individual lot, iii) each use provides for its own septic and water source, including a hydrology study where required Township regulations; and iv) a plan has been recorded in compliance with the SALDO.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
B. 
An applicant for more than one principal use on a lot shall be required to submit information and detailed plans that demonstrate compliance with this section. Such plan and information shall depict a hypothetical illustration of how the proposed use would be located upon its own separate lot using ghost property lines and related setbacks, accompanying lot coverage calculations, etc.
When an unimproved lot is situated between two improved lots with front yard dimensions less than those required for the zone, the front yard required may be reduced to a depth equal to the average of the two adjoining lots, provided that in no case shall the front yard be less than 20 feet from an abutting street right-of-way line within the C, A, LDR, MU, MI and BI Zones.
Access drives are improved cartways designed and constructed to provide for vehicular movement between a street and the off-street parking and/or loading area for any use other than one single-family dwelling unit or farm. Access drives shall conform to the following:
A. 
The standards contained in the Township SALDO at § 178-36.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
B. 
Access drive intersections with a state route shall be subject to the approval of PennDOT.
A. 
The height regulations do not apply to the following structures or projections provided such structures or projections are set back a horizontal distance at least equal to their height from any property line, are not used for habitable floor space, comply with applicable FAA regulations and are constructed in accordance with the prevailing Uniform Construction Code:
(1) 
Water towers, utility poles, smokestacks, chimneys, farm silos, windmills, flagpoles, clock or bell towers, spires, steeples, belfries, cupolas, monuments, dormers, satellite dishes, electrical transmission lines and structures, conveyors, derricks, skylights, solar energy collectors and other similar structures;
(2) 
Rooftop structures for the housing of elevators, stairways, water storage tanks, ventilating fans, and other mechanical appurtenances;
(3) 
Parapet walls or cornices used solely for ornamental purposes if not in excess of five feet above the roofline; and
(4) 
Church or school roofs.
B. 
In no case shall any freestanding or rooftop structure above the maximum permitted height be used for the purpose of providing additional floor space for any use; and
C. 
In lieu of this section, telecommunications towers, wireless communication facilities, and similar antennae shall be subject to the regulations of §§ 205-62 and 205-80 of this chapter.
A. 
Outdoor lighting shall be provided in accordance with § 178-43 of the SALDO.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
B. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-43 of the SALDO that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter; and
C. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-43 of the SALDO that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
A. 
All dwelling units must conform to the minimum habitable floor area following:
(1) 
Single-family, duplex, two-family and townhouse dwelling units: 700 square feet per dwelling unit.
(2) 
Multifamily dwellings and conversion apartments: 400 square feet per dwelling unit.
A. 
All principal commercial, industrial, institutional, and health-care related uses shall be required to provide detailed information regarding materials and waste handling, including:
(1) 
Listing of all materials to be used and/or produced on the site;
(2) 
Listing of all wastes generated on the site; and
(3) 
Written evidence that the storage, treatment, processing, transfer, and disposal of all materials and wastes shall be accomplished in a manner that complies with all applicable federal, state, county, and municipal requirements, including, but not limited to, the following:
(a) 
The Pennsylvania Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act (Act 101);[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See 53 P.S. § 4000.101 et seq.
(b) 
The Pennsylvania Solid Waste Management Act (Act 97);[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: See 35 P.S. § 6018.101 et seq.
(c) 
The Federal Emergency Management Act;
(d) 
The Federal Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act;[3]
[3]
Editor's Note: See 42 U.S.C. § 9601 et seq.
(e) 
The Pennsylvania Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning and Response Act;[4] and
[4]
Editor's Note: See 35 P.S. § 6022.101 et seq.
(f) 
The Pennsylvania Low Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Act.[5]
[5]
Editor's Note: See 35 P.S. § 7130.101 et seq.
(4) 
No flammable or explosive liquids, solids, or gases shall be stored aboveground, except within receptacles which meet all local, state, and/or federal regulations unless restricted or prohibited by other regulatory controls contained within this chapter.
(5) 
All storage facilities for fuel stored outdoors shall be enclosed by a security fence and screened from adjoining roads and properties.
(6) 
All storage facilities for fuel stored outdoors shall be located in accord with any state and/or federal regulatory requirements for separation distances.
(7) 
Highly flammable or toxic or hazardous or explosive liquids, solids, or gases shall be stored aboveground in leakproof double-walled containment vessels which accommodate testing for leaks and all such containment vessels and facilities shall be suitably screened by natural plantings so that they are not visible from lot lines.
(8) 
No substance which has the potential to contaminate groundwater or surface waters shall be permitted to be stored outdoors unless the property owner and/or proprietor provides safeguards from potential contamination satisfactory to the Township based upon state and federal requirements.
(9) 
No materials or wastes shall be stored or deposited upon a lot in such form or manner that they:
(a) 
May be transferred off the lot by natural causes or forces;
(b) 
Can contaminate a stream or watercourse;
(c) 
Render a stream or watercourse undesirable as a source of water supply or recreation; or
(d) 
Will destroy aquatic life.
(10) 
All materials or wastes which might cause fumes or dust or which constitute a fire hazard or which may be edible or otherwise attractive to vermin shall be stored only if enclosed in containers which are adequate to eliminate such hazards.
(11) 
Dumpsters are permitted within the side or rear yard, provided such dumpsters are screened from any adjoining roads or properties. Unless specified elsewhere within this chapter dumpsters shall comply with all side and rear yard setbacks imposed upon the principal use. All waste receptacles shall be completely enclosed within a masonry or framed enclosure with a self-closing door or gate.
B. 
All uses must properly dispose of wastes in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.
A. 
Schedule of required off-street loading spaces. All uses shall provide required off-street loading in accordance with the following schedule:
Use
Gross Floor Area
(square feet)
Number of Spaces
Commercial, wholesale, manufacturing, hospital, laundry, institutional or similar uses
Under 8,000
1
8,000 to 40,000
2
Over 40,000 to 100,000
3
Over 100,000 to 250,000
4
Each additional 250,000
1
Offices, hotels or similar lodging
Under 100,000
1
Over 100,000 to 300,000
2
Over 300,000
3
B. 
Off-street loading shall be designed and constructed in accordance with § 178-39 of the SALDO.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
C. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-39 of the SALDO that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter; and
D. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-39 of the SALDO that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
A. 
Parking for single-family detached dwellings.
(1) 
Every single-family dwelling shall be required to provide at least two off-street parking spaces that are each rectangular and a minimum of 10 feet wide and 20 feet long. Such spaces must be provided behind the street right-of-way line and may be within garages, carports, and/or driveways. Additional regulations pertaining to driveways are contained in § 205-24 of this article.
(2) 
Residents in all zones are permitted to park one commercial vehicle upon their property, provided such commercial vehicle does not exceed a gross vehicle weight of 20,000 pounds and such vehicle is either used on the property or is assigned to one resident of the property for employment purposes. The weight limitation set forth in herein shall not apply to the C, A, MI, and BI Zones.
(3) 
The following regulations contained in § 205-34B of this chapter do not apply to off-street parking facilities serving one single-family dwelling.
B. 
Parking requirements for uses other than single-family detached dwellings.
(1) 
Off-street parking shall be designed and constructed in accordance with § 178-38 of the SALDO.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
(2) 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-38 of the SALDO that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter; and
(3) 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-38 of the SALDO that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
C. 
Schedule of required parking spaces.
(1) 
Except as provided for in §§ 205-34C(2) and 205-34C(4), the minimum number of off-street parking spaces to be provided for each land use type shall be as indicated on following chart. Any use involving a combination of several uses shall provide the sum of the number of spaces required for each individual use. When a calculation results in a fraction, any fraction below 1/2 may be disregarded, and any fraction of 1/2 or more shall require an additional full space.
Commercial Uses
Type of Use
Minimum of One Passenger Parking Space for Each
Auction houses, excluding automobile auctions
2 persons of legal occupancy plus 1 per employee
Auditorium, banquet, conference, and meeting facilities; theater, and other such places of public assembly
3 seats of legal occupancy plus 1 per employee on largest shift
Automobile, truck, trailer, bus, passenger motor vehicle and recreational vehicle service, repair and washing facilities
1/4 service and/or washing bay (i.e., 4 per bay)
Automobile, boat, and trailer sales
400 square feet of gross indoor and outdoor display area
Banks, credit unions and other similar financial uses
200 square feet of gross floor area
Bed-and-breakfast
Room for rent plus those required for the dwelling unit
Car wash
See § 205-59
Carpeting, drapery, floor covering, and wall covering sales
500 square feet of gross floor area
Casinos, off-track betting parlors, slot machine parlors
65 square feet of gross floor area
Clinics and professional offices of veterinarians, physicians, dentists, opticians, counselors and etc.
220 square feet of gross floor area
Clubs, lodges and other similar places
100 square feet of gross floor area plus 1 per employee on largest shift
Commercial recreation facilities
See § 205-65
Convenience stores
350 square feet of gross floor area
Convention and conference centers
See § 205-69
Child care (group home or centers), excluding family child-care homes
6 persons enrolled
Drive-through and/or fast-food restaurants
67 square feet of gross floor area
Dry cleaners, laundries and laundromats
400 square feet of gross floor area
Farmers and/or flea markets
200 square feet of retail sales area
Food markets and grocery stores
150 square feet of gross floor area
Funeral homes
50 square feet of gross floor area
Furniture sales
400 square feet gross floor area
Gas stations as a principal or accessory use
2 parallel spaces arranged in a stacked configuration for each fuel dispensing location plus 4 per service or washing bay
Health, fitness, social, fraternal and other private clubs
See § 205-84
Home improvement and building supply stores
250 square feet of interior retail sales area, plus 1 space for each 500 square feet of exterior retail sales area
Home occupation
Nonresident employee and patron on site at 1 time
Hotels, motels and similar lodging facilities
Guest sleeping room and 1 per each employee (Restaurants and other accessory uses shall add to this requirement.)
Kennels and horse boarding stables
10 animals of occupancy plus and 1 per each employee on 2 largest shifts
Office buildings
250 square feet of gross floor area
Personal services (e.g., barbers, beauticians, masseuse, tanning salon, tattoo parlor, photographer, etc.)
4 spaces per practitioner or 2 spaces per service station whichever produces the greater number
Retail stores or shops (except those listed above) and personal service uses
200 square feet of gross floor area plus 1 per each employee on 2 largest shifts
Restaurants
67 square feet of gross floor area
Storage unit centers
50 units plus 2 per any resident manager
Shopping centers or malls with up to 400,000 square feet of gross floor area
250 square feet of gross floor area
Shopping centers or malls with more than 400,000 but less than 600,000 square feet of gross floor area
235 square feet of gross floor area
Shopping centers a or malls with more than 600,000 square feet of gross floor area
222 square feet of gross floor area
Other commercial uses
360 square feet of gross floor area
Auditorium, banquet, conference, and meeting facilities; theater, and other such places of public assembly
3 seats; for uses without permanent seats, 50 square feet of are used for assembly purposes
Industrial Uses
Type of Use
Minimum of One Passenger Parking Space for Each
Automobile, truck, trailer, bus, passenger motor vehicle and recreational vehicle service, repair and washing facilities
1/4 service and/or washing bay (i.e., 4 per bay)
Industrial and heavy manufacturing establishments
540 square feet plus those associated with any office, sales or similar related uses when said uses exceed 10% of the gross floor area
Truck or motor freight terminal
2,000 square feet
Truck stops
See § 205-129
Warehousing, distribution and wholesale trade
1500 square feet
Other industrial uses
2 employees on the 2 largest shifts or at least 1 space per each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area, whichever is the greatest number
Recreational Uses
Type of Use
Minimum of One Passenger Parking Space for Each
Baseball, soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, rugby, football and other athletic fields
1/12 field (12 per field) plus 1 per each 4 seats of spectator seating
Basketball and volleyball courts
1/8 court (8 per court) plus 1 per each 4 seats of spectator seating.
Bowling alleys, billiards rooms
1/4 lane/table (i.e., 4 per lane/table) and 1 per each 2 employees
Campgrounds
Campsite, plus 1 per employee, plus 50% of the spaces normally required for accessory uses
Golf courses
1/2 hole (i.e., 2 per hole), plus 1 per employee, plus 50% of the spaces normally required for accessory uses
Golf driving ranges
1 per tee and 1 per employee
Gymnasiums
1/8 court (8 per court) plus 1 per 4 seats of spectator seating.
Health, fitness, social, fraternal and other private clubs
See § 205-84
Miniature golf courses
1/2 hole (i.e., 2 per hole) and 1 per employee
Outdoor shooting range
0.75 firing stations, but not less than 1 space for each 4 seats
Riding schools or horse stables
2 stalls plus 1 per every 4 seats of spectator seating
Picnic areas
Per table
Skating rinks
4 persons of legal occupancy
Swimming pools (other than 1 accessory to a residential development)
4 persons of legal occupancy
Tennis or racquetball clubs
1/4 court (i.e., 4 per court), plus 1 per employee plus 50% of the spaces normally required for accessory uses
Residential Uses
Type of Use
Minimum of One Passenger Parking Space for Each
Single-family detached dwellings and two-family conversions
1/2 dwelling unit (i.e., 2 spaces per dwelling unit)
Boardinghouses
Room for rent
Group homes, orphanages, dormitories, rectories methadone treatment facility, and etc.
Bedroom
Duplex, two-family, townhouse and multiple-family dwellings
1/3 dwelling unit (i.e., 3 spaces per dwelling unit); such parking spaces can take the form of private driveways, or garages and/or common parking lots, provided all spaces required are within 150 feet of the unit served
Medical residential campus, nursing rest or retirement homes
0.75 dwelling units with individual kitchens, plus 1 for each 6 care beds, plus 1 for each employee on largest shift
Mobile home parks
1/2 dwelling unit (i.e., 2 spaces per unit) plus 1 on-street or in common visitor parking lot
Social and Institutional Uses
Type of Use
Minimum of One Passenger Parking Space for Each
Auditorium, banquet, conference, and meeting facilities; theater, and other such places of public assembly
3 seats of legal occupancy plus 1 per employee on largest shift
Churches
5 seats in sanctuary or auditorium, or if no fixed seats 1 per 40 square feet of gross floor area
Clubs, lodges and other similar places
100 square feet of gross floor area plus 1 per employee on largest shift
Medical residential campus, nursing rest or retirement homes
0.75 dwelling units with individual kitchens, plus 1 for each 6 care beds, plus 1 for each employee on largest shift
Health, fitness, social, fraternal and other private clubs
See § 205-84
Hospitals, sanitariums
Spaces shall be provided for visitors, at the rate of at least 1 space per each 1.5 accommodations (beds); such spaces shall be in addition to those necessary for those personnel employed or practicing on the site at 1 time
Museums, art galleries, cultural centers, libraries
400 square feet of gross floor area
Rehabilitation centers (without overnight accommodations)
Per employee and 1 per each 3 patients
Schools below grade 10, including principal day care and kindergarten
6 students enrolled
Schools, 10th grade and above, including colleges with on-site housing for a majority of students enrolled
3 students enrolled
Colleges that do not offer on-site housing for a majority of students enrolled
1.5 students enrolled
Vocational training and adult education facilities
1.5 students enrolled
(2) 
All other uses not specifically mentioned above shall provide off-street parking spaces to accommodate one space for the maximum number of persons regularly employed, having business, and/or resident upon the premises at any given time.
(3) 
For commercial and industrial uses, no off-street parking area shall accommodate more than 120% of the minimum requirement, regardless of whether such additional spaces are provided with pervious surfacing, except as provided for below by § 205-34C(4) of this chapter.
(4) 
Alternative off-street parking standards to those provided in this section may be permitted by the Zoning Hearing Board as a special exception in accordance with § 205-151C of this chapter. The applicant shall establish by credible evidence that adequate parking is provided for all uses within the development. Such evidence shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
(a) 
Estimates of required parking needs based upon actual traffic or parking surveys for existing similar land uses located in comparable settings.
(b) 
Analysis of shared parking facilities with other uses that routinely experience peak parking demands at different times of the day, week, or season, and where the parking spaces required by one use can also accommodate another nearby use.
(c) 
Analysis of the possible use of permeable surfaces for overflow parking where such overflow parking area would be used sparingly and where the applicant can show that the permeable surfaces will be constructed of stable materials and will be environmentally beneficial to the community.
(d) 
Analysis of the likelihood of the use of bus service (both public transit and charter service) by a significant volume of patrons.
(e) 
Any other specific characteristics of the proposed use that, in the opinion of the Zoning Hearing Board, justifies a different required parking ratio.
D. 
Shared off-street parking.
(1) 
Notwithstanding any other parking requirement, when any parcel of land is proposed to be used for two or more land uses, the Township may allow the minimum number of parking spaces required to serve the combination of all uses to be established in accordance with the following formula:
(a) 
Determine the minimum amount of parking required for each use as though it were a separate use.
(b) 
Multiply each such amount by the corresponding percentage for each applicable time period showing in the following schedule.
Parking Credit Schedule
Uses
Weekdays
Weekends
Nights
12:00 midnight to 6:00 a.m.
Days
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Evenings
6:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight
Days
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Evenings
6:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight
Commercial/Retail
5%
50%
90%
100%
70%
Hotel/Lodging
80%
80%
100%
80%
100%
Office/Industrial
5%
100%
10%
10%
5%
Restaurant
10%
50%
100%
50%
100%
Entertainment/
Recreation
10%
40%
100%
80%
100%
All other uses
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
(c) 
Calculate the column total for each time period.
(d) 
The column total with the highest value is the parking space requirement.
(2) 
In determining whether to approve an adjustment for shared parking, the Township shall consider all relevant factors, including:
(a) 
Location of the shared parking in the same zone as the parking generator.
(b) 
The characteristics of each use and the differences in projected peak parking demand, including days or hours of operation.
(c) 
Potential reduction in vehicle movements afforded by multipurpose use of the parking facility.
(d) 
Potential improvements in parking facility design, circulation and access afforded by a joint parking facility.
(e) 
Whether space will be conveniently usable without causing unreasonable hazard to pedestrians, hazard to vehicular traffic, traffic congestion, interference with safe and convenient access to other parking areas in the vicinity and detriment to adjoining neighborhood.
(f) 
The degree of certainly regarding the continued availability of the shared parking facilities for the uses they are intended to serve, and
(g) 
The report and recommendation of the Township Engineer.
(3) 
All requirements and conditions herein imposed upon the shared parking facility, including adequate assurance of the continued availability of the shared parking facilities for the uses they are intended to serve, shall be set out in either of the following ways:
(a) 
Memorandum of lease covering the shared parking facilities restricting the use of said shared parking area for parking purposes only; or
(b) 
A reciprocal easement agreement specifically setting forth the areas which will be used exclusively as parking areas. Such assurance shall be in a form and of a substance approved by the Township Solicitor. The applicable instrument shall be submitted with the plan that includes a shared parking facility. This instrument shall serve as notice to all subsequent purchasers of the existence of a shared parking facility and all requirements associated therewith. If the assurance is removed or superseded in any way by the parties or their successors or assigns, substitute off-street parking must be provided in conformance with the requirements of this section. If no alternate parking facilities are provided as required by this chapter within 90 days of notice from the Township that substitute parking is required, the Township may revoke the approvals for the applicable uses then existing.
(4) 
Public entrances to all uses shall be no more than 500 feet from the closest entrance to the shared parking facility; provided, however, that parking areas designated for employee parking only may be up to 500 feet from an employee entrance to the structure.
(5) 
Parking spaces reserved or to be reserved on a twenty-four-hour basis shall be designated on the plan. These spaces shall not be included in the calculation of available spaces to meet the minimum parking space requirements for a shared parking facility.
(6) 
Residential use is not eligible for a shared parking adjustment.
(7) 
Where a shared parking facility is approved, the developer shall provide signage providing information clearly indicating the availability of this facility for patrons of participating uses.
(8) 
After a shared parking facility has been approved, any subsequent change, addition or deletion in the original uses, or any significant change in intensity of use of such uses shall require a revised plan approval. No approval of the changed uses shall be issued without a revised approval for the revised shared parking facility.
E. 
Prohibition of parking of unlicensed/uninspected vehicles. Except upon property used for the sale and service of motor vehicles or trailers or upon property used for a junkyard, motor vehicles or trailers of any kind or type without current license plates and current inspection stickers shall not be parked or stored upon any property other than in a completely enclosed garage or other accessory building. This requirement shall not apply to implements and other vehicles not normally used as conveyances on the public streets, nor shall it apply to vehicles routinely used in the operation of an ongoing agricultural use.
F. 
Parking of dumpsters and pods.
(1) 
Upon any property, the use of dumpsters and or other portable storage containers and pods is limited to temporary periods during events such as construction, remodeling, moving and similar activities. The use of dumpsters and or other portable storage containers and pods for permanent storage and/or waste containment is expressly prohibited. The use of dumpsters and or other portable storage containers and pods shall not exceed 60 days during any calendar year and only following the issuance of a zoning permit. Such containers must be located so as not to block any required clear sight triangles and be at least 10 feet from all lot lines. The Zoning Officer may issue an one-time extension to the zoning permit, if the applicant can demonstrate that the nature of the proposed activity i) is ongoing; ii) is making reasonable progress; iii) requires additional time; and iv) has a definitive ending date identified by the applicant beyond which the use shall cease.
(2) 
Notwithstanding the forgoing, any commercial use may maintain a permanent dumpster on premises if permitted by the trash hauler and approved by the Zoning Officer. Such applicant must establish that the permanent dumpster will be located on the property so it will not be seen by neighbors or the general public, will not create a safety hazard, will not create any noxious odor, and otherwise complies with § 205-35 below.
G. 
Parking of recreational vehicles and personal cargo trailers. Refer to § 205-110 of this chapter.
H. 
Prohibited uses of a parking lot. Parking lots are for the sole purposes of accommodating the passenger vehicles of persons associated with the use which requires them. Parking lots shall not be used for the following and/or loading purposes:
(1) 
The sale, display, or storage of automobiles or other merchandise, except as otherwise permitted by this chapter;
(2) 
Parking vehicles accessory to the use;
(3) 
Performing services (including services to vehicles);
(4) 
The placement or storage of trailers, trucks, portable storage containers, palettes or other similar structures, vehicles, items or materials; or
(5) 
Loading and unloading purposes except during hours when business operations are suspended.
A. 
Performance standards. The Township's Nuisance Ordinance, as amended,[1] is incorporated herein by reference as if fully reproduced herein. The Township's Nuisance Ordinance shall be the performance standards for the Township's zoning purposes, meaning that all criteria and standards to establish a nuisance in said Nuisance Ordinance shall be deemed as the minimal performance standards applied to any use permitted by right, accessory, special exception, conditional use and/or variance within the Township.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 130, Nuisances.
B. 
Application to zoning. Any use or person that fails to comply with the standards, criteria and limitations set forth in the Township's Nuisance Ordinance, shall, in addition to any violation of said ordinance, also be deemed as a zoning violation for failing to comply with the performance standards of the Township.
A. 
Shopping cart storage. For grocery stores and other stores containing grocery departments, variety stores, home improvement and building supply stores, and other uses that provide shopping carts for use by customers, the outdoor storage and collection of shopping carts is permitted subject to the following.
(1) 
Shopping carts may be collected and stored immediately in front of the storefront (upon sidewalks, or under a canopy) and/or within the parking lot.
(2) 
In no case shall such designed shopping cart storage and collection areas be located upon any facilities used for vehicle circulation, required parking and loading areas, or emergency vehicle access provisions (e.g., fire lanes).
(3) 
Shopping cart storage and collection areas shall be situated to provide clear pedestrian access (sidewalk or other area) at least eight feet wide adjoining the storefront.
(4) 
Signage for shopping cart storage and collection areas shall be governed by those regulations pertaining to on-site directional and informational signs as regulated by § 205-41D(8) of this chapter.
B. 
Seasonal sidewalk displays. For commercial uses, seasonal sidewalk displays related to retail sales are permitted subject to the following:
(1) 
Only seasonal merchandise may be displayed and shall be limited to the periods from April 1 to October 1 and November 25 to January 5.
(2) 
The location of such outdoor displays shall be limited to sidewalks, under canopies, and other areas immediately in front of the building/storefront. The stacking or display of such items shall be arranged to provide clear pedestrian access (sidewalk or other area) at least eight feet wide.
(3) 
In no case shall the location of such sidewalk display areas occur within any area used for vehicular circulation, required parking and loading areas, or emergency vehicle access provisions (e.g., fire lanes).
(4) 
In no case shall such sidewalk display area exceed 50% of the linear area of the storefront. For example, a storefront 200 feet long could have a sidewalk display directly in front of the store with a maximum length of 100 feet.
(5) 
Signage for seasonal sidewalk sales shall comply with the applicable requirements contained within § 205-41D(14) of this chapter.
(6) 
The applicant shall submit a working plan to the Township for the cleanup of litter and debris which may result from such outdoor display. Also, the applicant shall depict intended sidewalk display areas upon any permit applications and/or plans required by the Township. No additional permits shall be required, unless such area is to change location or size.
C. 
Special event sales. For commercial uses, special events are permitted subject to the following:
(1) 
In addition to the other provisions of this section, four special event sales shall be permitted per calendar year. Such special event sales shall be limited to no more than a total of 30 days per calendar year.
(2) 
Areas used for special event sales displays shall be sited to comply with the setback requirements for a principal structure or principal use, whichever is greater.
(3) 
Special event sales may be located within the parking lot, provided that such location does not contribute to congestion within the parking lot and upon the access drives that provide direct access to public roads. Within parking lots, such display areas shall be clearly delineated from the adjoining parking lot by the use of identifiable barriers (such as tents, canopies, temporary fences, or ropes). Additionally, location within the parking lot shall only be permitted insofar that the remaining parking spaces available for use are greater than or equal to the number of such spaces required for the principal use by this chapter.
(4) 
The area devoted to special event sales displays shall not exceed 20% of the gross leasable floor area of the use(s) conducting the special event sale.
(5) 
(Reserved)
(6) 
All uses conducting a special event sale shall be responsible for the ongoing cleanup of litter and debris. Also, no exterior public address or lighting systems shall be used that produce glare or noise impacts discernible at, or beyond, the property line.
(7) 
Signage for special event sales shall comply with the applicable requirements contained within § 205-41D(14) of this chapter.
A. 
Where a traffic impact study is required elsewhere in this chapter, it shall be provided in accordance with § 178-18G(5) of the SALDO;[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
B. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-18G(5) of the SALDO that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter; and
C. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-18G(5) of the SALDO that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
For the purposes of this chapter, the roads, streets and cartways located within the Township shall be classified in the following categories:
Arterial Road
Collector Roads
Local Roads
Interstate 81
Carlisle Road
Ritner Highway
Goodyear Road
Pine Road
Pine Grove Road
Walnut Bottom Road
West Old York Road
All other roads not listed in other 2 categories
A. 
Screening and landscaping shall comply with § 178-50 of the SALDO;[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 178, Subdivision and Land Development.
B. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-50 of the SALDO that are proposed during the subdivision/land development process shall be permitted as a waiver according to § 178-13 of the SALDO and, when granted, will not also require the grant of a variance under the terms of this chapter; and
C. 
Deviations from the requirements of § 178-50 of the SALDO that are proposed during the zoning permit process that do not involve subdivision/land development review shall be permitted as a variance according to § 205-151D of this chapter.
A. 
Purpose.
(1) 
To provide for signs as a means of effective visual communication.
(2) 
To promote adopted comprehensive planning and zoning objectives.
(3) 
To assure compatibility of signs with land uses and buildings in the vicinity of the signs and in the community as a whole.
(4) 
To improve the safety of pedestrians, vehicular traffic, and property.
(5) 
To enhance the economic value of the community.
(6) 
To enhance the aesthetic environment.
(7) 
To minimize adverse effects of signs on nearby property.
(8) 
To otherwise promote the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the community.
(9) 
To regulate the use of signs through a sign permitting process.
(10) 
To enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations.
B. 
Sign area and height. The following guidelines shall apply when interpreting area and height regulations in this section.
(1) 
Area. The area of a sign shall be the area of the smallest rectangle, triangle, or circle that will encompass all elements of the sign, such as letters, figures, symbols, designs, or other display.
(a) 
When the sign is a separate unit, the area shall include any borders, framing, trim, decorative attachments, background, and space between elements; it shall not include any supporting structure unless that structure is illuminated, is in the form of a symbol, or contains advertising elements.
(b) 
When the sign is applied to a wall or otherwise has no definable edges, the area shall include all color, artwork, or other means used to differentiate the sign from the surface upon which it is placed.
(c) 
When a single sign structure has more than one face with the same message, and no two sign faces are more than three feet apart at any point, the area shall be computed by determining the greatest total area of all sign faces visible from any single location.
(2) 
Height. The height of a sign shall be measured from the average ground level beneath the sign to the highest point of the sign. The ground level shall be the lower of the ground level existing at the time of construction or the ground level existing prior to construction and prior to any earth disturbance at the site. This prior ground level may be established by any reliable source, including, without limitation, existing topographic maps, aerial photographs, photographs of the site, or affidavits of people who are personally familiar with the site. No person(s) shall artificially increase the maximum height of a sign by altering the grade at the base of the sign by any means.
(a) 
No sign shall be higher than the height limitation imposed by this chapter.
(b) 
The height of freestanding signs shall be controlled by the standards in Tables 1, 2 and 3 listed in § 205-41D of this chapter.
(c) 
Wall signs may be at any height on the wall to which they are attached, except that they may not extend higher than the top of the wall.
(d) 
Roof signs may extend no more than five feet above the lowest point where they are attached to the building and may not extend above the highest point of the roof.
C. 
General regulations. The following regulations shall apply to all signs, in addition to the specific regulations contain in the following provisions of this section. Where these general regulations are contradicted by a specific regulation, the specific regulation shall control.
(1) 
All signs shall be constructed of durable materials, maintained in good condition, and secured in a safe manner.
(2) 
When a sign becomes unsafe, the Zoning Officer shall give written notice to the owner of the premises on which the sign is located that the sign must be made safe or removed immediately.
(3) 
The areas surrounding all signs shall be maintained in a neat, clean, and attractive condition.
(4) 
All signs shall be removed within 12 months if the purpose for which they were erected no longer exists.
(5) 
Each property that displays one or more permanent freestanding signs and that is in an area where street addresses have been assigned, must prominently display the address on one permanent freestanding sign visible from the street. The address must include the street number; the street name is optional. The area taken up by the address does not count as part of the sign area. The numbers shall be Arabic numbers, of a uniform size, and shall be of durable, reflective materials. Each digit or letter shall be at least four inches in height. The color shall contrast with the immediate background so as to be easily readable.
(6) 
No permanent, temporary or planned center signs shall be permitted except as authorized by this section.
(7) 
No sign shall be located within a street right-of-way or clear sight triangle at an intersection.
(8) 
All freestanding signs shall be set back a minimum distance equal to the sign height from each lot line. No sign within the clear sight triangle shall obstruct vision between the heights of 30 inches and eight feet above the elevation of the center line of the street.
(9) 
No signs shall be painted, pasted, nailed, stapled, or otherwise attached to utility poles, trees, fences, fire hydrants, or in an unauthorized manner to walls or other signs, except insofar as such signs comply with generally applicable rules, regulations, or policies formally adopted by the Board of Supervisors. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a property owner shall be permitted to place signs on fences or trees which he/she/it owns, provided such signs comply with the other provisions of this chapter.
(10) 
No sign shall be placed so as to obstruct any door, stairway, window, fire escape, or other means of egress or ingress.
(11) 
No sign shall be placed so as to obstruct ventilation or light from a building.
(12) 
No overhead sign shall have a clearance of less than eight feet between any pedestrian walk and the lowest part of the sign nor less than 17 feet six inches between any roadway and the lowest part of the sign.
(13) 
No flat wall sign shall project more than 18 inches from the face of the wall to which it is attached over a public sidewalk.
(14) 
No wall projecting sign shall project more than 48 inches from the face of the wall to which it is attached over a public sidewalk.
(15) 
No sign shall have lights or other illuminating devices that constitute a public safety or traffic hazard.
(16) 
No sign shall be permitted which imitates or which might be confused with an official traffic sign or signal, such as by containing the words "Stop" or "Danger" or by including red, green, or yellow lights.
(17) 
No sign or window display shall include a revolving beam or beacon of light resembling an emergency vehicle or facility. Rotating, traveling, pulsing, flashing, or oscillating light sources, lasers, beacons, or strobe lighting shall not be permitted except within the B1 Zone and not within 500 feet of a signalized traffic intersection, a residential use or a LDR or MU Zone.
(18) 
No sign shall advertise activities or products that are illegal under federal, state, or local municipal laws or regulations.
(19) 
No sign shall include statements, words, or pictures that are considered to be vulgar, obscene, or pornographic. No sign shall depict specified anatomical areas or specified sexual activities, both as defined herein.
(20) 
No streamers, pennants, spinners, reflectors, ribbons, tinsel, balloons or similar materials shall be displayed outside a building.
(21) 
In addition to any other signs permitted by this section, each principal use may display one flag not to exceed the size and height of a permanent sign permitted by § 205-41D of this chapter. Such flag shall not be used to convey any commercial message or advertising.
(22) 
No sign shall emit smoke, visible vapors, particles, sound, or odor.
(23) 
No sign shall be placed on an automobile, truck, or other vehicle if that vehicle is being used primarily for displaying such sign.
(24) 
No inflatable signs shall be permitted.
(25) 
No open flames shall be permitted as part of a sign or in any other way to attract attention.
(26) 
Advertising painted upon or displayed upon a barn or other structure shall be considered a sign and shall comply with this section.
(27) 
Signs that are located on the inside of a window shall be counted as a sign if they are legible from an adjoining road or adjoining property.
(28) 
Any sign may be exempted from the regulations of § 205-41D of this chapter as a special exception, if the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Zoning Hearing Board that the sign has been authenticated as historically significant and accurate for its specific location, whether original or a replica.
(29) 
The lighting of all signs shall comply with § 205-29 of this chapter.
(30) 
Billboards shall comply with § 205-56 of this chapter.
(31) 
Signs incorporating LCD, LED, plasma, CRT, pixelized lights or other animated and/or video-like displays shall be limited to the MU and BI Zones and shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) 
Such signs shall employ lettering and/or symbols for immediate recognition by motorists with a height not less than 12 inches;
(b) 
Such signs shall display simple and static messages for immediate recognition by motorists. Messages shall be complete in each display cycle and shall not require viewers to see multiple display cycles to derive its meaning;
(c) 
Such signs shall use instantaneous transitions from one message display cycle to the next with no blank-outs, scrolling, fading, streaming, zooming, flashing or any other animated effect to facilitate immediate recognition by motorists;
(d) 
All properties utilizing a dynamic message display sign must remove all exterior promotional banners, sandwich board signs, and may not use any temporary signage; and
(e) 
Each message display cycle shall comply with the following minimum time standards based upon the lowest speed limit of the road travel lane from which the sign is visible:
Required Minimum Message Display Cycles (seconds)
Speed Limit
(miles per hour)
Total Sign Area With up to 64 Square Feet
Total Sign Area Between 64 and 300 Square Feet
Total Sign Area With More Than 300 Square Feet
25 mph
17 sec.
28 sec.
56 sec.
30 mph
14 sec.
24 sec.
48 sec.
35 mph
12 sec.
20 sec.
40 sec.
40 mph
11 sec.
18 sec.
36 sec.
45 mph
10 sec.
16 sec.
32 sec.
50 mph
9 sec.
14 sec.
28 sec.
55 + mph
8 sec.
12 sec.
24 sec.
D. 
Specific sign requirements.
The following three tables provide requirements imposed upon permanent, temporary and planned center signs as permitted within the Township, solely for purposes of such tables, the below definitions shall apply: i) common residential property shall mean a residential property with at least one common wall; ii) individual residential property shall mean a residential property with no common wall; iii) common nonresidential property shall mean a nonresidential property with at least one common wall; and iv) individual nonresidential property shall mean a nonresidential property with no common wall.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Said tables are included as an attachment to this chapter.
E. 
Coordinated signs. As an alternative to separate freestanding signs, uses may provide for coordinated freestanding signage among several principal uses. In so doing each tenant is permitted 60% of their respective freestanding sign area upon the coordinated freestanding sign plus the ability to erect a flat wall, window or wall projecting sign at 60% that otherwise permitted for the use under § 205-41D of this chapter. Such coordinated signage must be located no less than 10 feet from the street right of way, not exceed 15 feet in height and include a sign easement agreement in language acceptable to the Township solicitor which assures each use adequate sign display and ensures adequate sign maintenance.
F. 
Nonconforming signs. Nonconforming signs may continue to be displayed as long as there is compliance with the following limitations and conditions.
(1) 
There shall be no expansion or increase in the nonconforming aspect in any way.
(2) 
Maintenance and repair of the sign are permitted. If necessary, up to 50% of the entire area of a sign and its supporting structure may be replaced in the event of damage. Any such replacement must be completed within six months of the damage occurring.
(3) 
The sign must be brought into conformity if, for a period of at least 12 months, the message has no longer applied to an activity on the premises (this does not apply to billboards).
G. 
Permitting procedures and fees. Permits for the placement of signs are required as indicated by the last column in the tables listed in § 205-41D of this chapter. All signs requiring permits must have such permit prior to the erection, installation, or alteration of the sign. Sign permit applications, forms, plan requirements, and fees shall be established by resolution of the Board of Supervisors.
(1) 
Application for permit shall be made in writing to the Zoning Officer and shall contain all information necessary for such Officer to determine whether the proposed sign, or the proposed alterations, conform to the requirements of this chapter. All applications for sign permits shall be accompanied by scaled plans or diagrams showing the following:
(a) 
Exact dimensions of the lot including any right-of-way lines or building upon which the sign is proposed to be erected;
(b) 
Exact size, dimensions, and location of the said sign on the lot or building together with its type, construction, materials to be used, and the manner of installation; and
(c) 
Any other lawful information that may be required of the applicant by the Zoning Officer.
(2) 
No zoning permit shall be issued except in conformity with the regulations of this chapter, except upon order of the Zoning Hearing Board, granted pursuant to the procedures established for the issuance of a variance.
A. 
Two disposal sites required. As of the effective date of this chapter, all newly created lots that rely upon on-lot sewage disposal systems shall be required to provide for a primary and back-up site location in compliance with the Dickinson Township Sewage Facilities Management Ordinance (Chapter 159 of the Dickinson Township Code of Ordinances.)
B. 
Minimum lot area. Regardless of any maximum lot area requirements listed elsewhere in this chapter, the minimum required lot size may be increased to ensure an acceptable level of nitrate-nitrogen in the adjoining groundwaters. Such determinations will be made by the PA DEP, through its sewer module review process. In those cases where applicable maximum lot area requirements are exceeded to protect groundwater quality, the applicant shall furnish evidence that the amount of land needed to protect local groundwater is the minimum necessary for such protection.
C. 
Disposal plume easement. In the Agricultural Zone and in lieu of the increased lot size described in the previous § 205-42B, an applicant who intends to make use of an on-lot sewage disposal system may secure and protect a sewage disposal plume easement to insure an acceptable level of nitrate-nitrogen in the adjoining groundwaters. Such easement shall be in a form acceptable to the Township Solicitor and the size and extent of the sewage plume easement shall be approved by the PA DEP, through its sewer module review process. Any agricultural land preserved in the Cumberland County Farmland Preservation Program is not eligible for the disposal plume easement.