[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021[1]]
Any sign erected, altered, or maintained after the effective
date of this Part shall conform to the following regulations.
[1]
Editor's Note: This Part also repealed former Part 16,
Signs, adopted by Ord. 524, 12/31/1991, as amended.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Signs perform an important function in identifying and promoting
properties, businesses, services, residences, events, and other matters
of interest to the public. The intent of this Part is to regulate
all signs within West Norriton Township to ensure that they are appropriate
for their respective uses, in keeping with the appearance of the affected
property and surrounding environment, and protective of the public
health, safety, and general welfare by:
A.
Setting standards and providing uniform, scientifically based controls
that permit reasonable use of signs and preserve the character of
West Norriton.
B.
Enhancing the economy and the business and industry of the area by
promoting the reasonable, orderly, and effective display of signs,
and thereby encouraging increased communication with the public.
C.
Prohibiting the erection of signs in such numbers, sizes, designs,
illumination, and locations as may create traffic congestion or a
hazard to pedestrians and motorists by distracting attention or obstructing
vision.
D.
Reducing conflict among signs and lights and between public and private
environmental information systems.
E.
Promoting signs which are compatible with their surroundings, are
appropriate to the type of activity to which they pertain.
F.
Avoiding excessive conflicts from large or multiple signs, so those
permitted signs provide adequate identification and direction while
minimizing clutter, unsightliness, and confusion.
G.
Establishing a process for the review and approval of sign permit
applications.
2.
Interpretation. In their interpretation and application, the provisions
of this Part shall be held to be the minimum requirements necessary
for the promotion and protection of the public health, safety, comfort,
morals, and convenience.
3.
Conflicting Codes and Ordinances. If any provision or requirement
of this Part is found to be in conflict with any other provisions
or requirement of this Part or of any other applicable governmental
law, ordinance, resolution, rule or other governmental regulation
of any kind, the regulation which establishes the more restrictive
rule or higher standard shall govern.
4.
Existing Agreement. This Part shall not abrogate any private agreement
existing prior to the effective date of this Part, provided that where
the regulations of this Part are more restrictive or impose higher
standards than such private agreements, the provisions and requirements
of this Part are separable:
A.
If any court of competent jurisdiction determines any provisions
of this Part to be invalid, such determination shall not affect any
other provisions of this Part not specifically included in the court's
judgment order.
B.
If any court of competent jurisdiction determines any provision of
this Part to be invalid as applied to any particular sign, such determination
shall not affect the application of such provisions to any other sign
not specifically included in the court's judgment order.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
In the construction of this Part and any subsequent amendment, the
rules and definitions contained in this section shall be observed
and applied except when the context clearly indicates otherwise:
A.
Words used in the present tense shall include the future tense.
B.
Words used in the plural number shall include the singular, and the
singular number shall include the plural number.
C.
The word "shall" and "will" are mandatory and are not discretionary.
D.
The word "may" is permissive.
E.
The word "lot" shall include the words "place" and "parcel."
F.
The word "building" shall include the word "structure" and shall
include all improvements of every kind, regardless of similarity to
buildings.
G.
The phrase "used for" shall include the phrases "arranged for," "designed
for," "intended for," "maintained for," and "occupied for."
H.
The word "person" shall include the words "individual," "corporation,"
"governmental agency," "trust," "estate," "partnership," "association,"
"venture," "joint venture," or any other legal activity.
I.
The masculine gender includes the feminine and neutral.
J.
ABANDONED SIGN
ADDRESS SIGN
AWNING
AWNING SIGN
BALLOON SIGN
BANNER
BEACON LIGHTING
BUILDING
BUILDING FRONTAGE
CANOPY
CANOPY SIGN
CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN
CHANNEL LETTER SIGN
CLEARANCE
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
FESTOON LIGHTING
FLAG
FLASHING SIGN
FOOTCANDLE
FOOTLAMBERT
FREESTANDING SIGN
GAS STATION CANOPY
GAS STATION CANOPY SIGN
GOVERNMENT/REGULATORY SIGN
HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
ILLUMINATED SIGN
ILLUMINATION
INCIDENTAL SIGN
INCIDENTAL WINDOW SIGN
INFLATABLE SIGN
INTERACTIVE SIGN
LEGIBILITY
LIGHT TRESPASS
LIMITED DURATION SIGN
LUMINANCE
MANUAL CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN
MARQUEE
MARQUEE SIGN
MEMORIAL SIGN
MENU SIGN
MESSAGE CENTER SIGN
MESSAGE SEQUENCING
MULTITENANT SIGN
MURAL or MURAL SIGN
NEON SIGN
NIT
NONCONFORMING SIGN
OFF-PREMISES SIGN
OFFICIAL TRAFFIC SIGN
ON-PREMISES SIGN
PATRON ADVERTISING SIGNS
PERMANENT SIGN
PERSONAL EXPRESSION SIGN
PORTABLE SIGN
PRIVATE DRIVE SIGN
PROJECTING SIGN
PUBLIC SIGN
REFLECTIVE SIGN
REVOLVING SIGN
ROOF SIGN
SCOREBOARD
SECURITY SIGN
SHIELDED
SIGN
SIGN AREA
SIGN FACE
SIGN HEIGHT
SIGN SUPPORTING STRUCTURE
SNIPE SIGN
STOREFRONT
STREAMERS
STREET FRONTAGE
STREET POLE BANNER
STRUCTURE
TEMPORARY SIGN
TRIVISION BOARDS
VENDING MACHINE SIGN
WALL SIGN
WARNING SIGN
WINDOW SIGN
Words and terms used in this Part shall have the meanings given in
this section. Unless expressly stated otherwise, any pertinent word
or term not part of this listing but vital to the interpretation of
this Part shall be construed to have its legal definition, or, in
absence of a legal definition, its meaning as commonly accepted by
practitioners, including civil engineers, surveyors, architects, landscape
architects, and planners.
A sign which has not identified or advertised a current business,
service, owner, product, or activity for a period of at least 180
days, in the case of off-premises signs, or at least 360 days in the
case of on-premises signs.
A sign that designates the street number and/or street name
for identification purposes, as designated by the United States Postal
Service. (Also known as "nameplate sign.")
A cloth, metal, or other nonstructural covering for the purpose
of shielding a doorway or window and either permanently attached to
a building or affixed to a building in such a manner that the structure
may be raised or retracted to a position against the building when
not in use.
Any sign painted on, or applied to, an awning.
A lighter-than-air, gas-filled balloon, tethered in a fixed
location, which contains an advertisement message on its surface or
attached to the balloon in any manner.
Any cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or similar nonrigid material
attached to any structure, staff, pole, rope, wire, or framing which
is anchored on two or more edges or at all four corners. Banners are
temporary in nature and do not include flags.
Any source of electric light, whether portable or fixed,
the primary purpose of which is to cast a concentrated beam of light
generally skyward as a means of attracting attention to its location
rather than to illuminate any particular sign, structure, or other
object.
A structure, including any part thereof, having a roof and
used for shelter or enclosure of persons or property.
The maximum linear width of a building measured in a single
straight line parallel, or essentially parallel, with the abutting
public street or parking lot.
A rigid structure other than an awning made of cloth, metal,
or other material that is supported by columns or posts affixed to
the ground and may also be connected to a building.
Any sign that is part of or attached to a canopy.
A sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols change
either automatically through electrical or electronic means, or manually
through placement of letters or symbols on a panel mounted in or on
a track system. The two types of changeable-copy signs are manual
changeable copy signs and electronic changeable copy signs, which
include message center signs, digital displays, and Trivision boards.
A sign consisting of fabricated or formed three-dimensional
letters, individually applied to a wall, which may accommodate a light
source.
The distance above the walkway, or other surface if specified,
to the bottom edge of a sign. This term can also refer to a horizontal
distance between two objects.
Signs designed to provide direction to pedestrian and vehicular
traffic into and out of, or within, a site.
A type of illumination comprised of either: a) a group of
incandescent light bulbs hung or strung overhead or on a building
or other structure, or b) light bulbs not shaded or hooded or otherwise
screened to prevent direct rays of light from shining on adjacent
properties or rights-of-way.
Any sign printed or painted on cloth, plastic, canvas, or
other like material with distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols
attached to a pole or staff and anchored along only one edge or supported
or anchored at only two corners.
An illuminated sign on which the artificial source of light
is not maintained stationary or constant in intensity and color at
all times when such sign is illuminated, and which exhibits changes
in light, color, direction, or animation. This definition does not
include electronic message center signs or digital displays that meet
the requirements set forth herein.
A unit of incident light (on a surface) stated in lumens
per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, aka footcandle
or light meter. One footcandle is equal to one lumen per square foot.
A unit of emitted light (from a surface) stated in lumens
per square foot and measurable with an illuminance meter, aka footcandle
or light meter. One footlambert is equal to one lumen per square foot.
A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed
on, or anchored in, the ground, and that is independent and detached
from any building or other structure. The following are subtypes of
freestanding signs:
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GROUND SIGN — A sign permanently affixed to the ground
at its base, supported entirely by a base structure, and not mounted
on a pole or attached to any part of a building. (Also known as "monument
sign.")
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POLE SIGN — A freestanding sign that is permanently supported
in a fixed location by a structure of one or more poles, posts, uprights,
or braces from the ground and not supported by a building or a base
structure.
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A freestanding, open-air structure constructed for the purpose
of shielding service station islands from the elements.
Any sign that is part of, or attached to, the vertical sides
of the gas station canopy roof structure. For the purposes of this
Part, gas station canopy signs shall be considered wall signs.
Any sign for the control of traffic or for identification
purposes, street signs, warning signs, railroad crossing signs, and
signs of public service companies indicating danger or construction,
which are erected by or at the order of a public officer, employee
or agent thereof, in the discharge of official duties.
Signs or displays including lighting which are a nonpermanent
installation celebrating national, state, and local holidays, religious
or cultural holidays, or other holiday seasons. (Also known as "seasonal
decorations.").
A sign with electrical equipment installed for illumination,
either internally illuminated through its sign face by a light source
contained inside the sign or externally illuminated by a light source
aimed at its surface.
A source of any artificial or reflected light, either directly
from a source of light incorporated in, or indirectly from, an artificial
source.
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EXTERNAL ILLUMINATION — Artificial light, located away
from the sign, which lights the sign, the source of which may or may
not be visible to persons viewing the sign from any street, sidewalk,
or adjacent property.
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INTERNAL ILLUMINATION — A light source that is concealed
or contained within the sign and becomes visible in darkness through
a translucent surface. Message center signs, digital displays, and
signs incorporating neon lighting shall not be considered internal
illumination for the purposes of this Part.
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HALO ILLUMINATION — A sign using a three-dimensional message,
logo, etc., which is lit in such a way as to produce a halo effect.
(Also known as "back-lit illumination.")
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A sign that displays general site information, instructions,
directives, or restrictions that are primarily oriented to pedestrians
and motor vehicle operators who have entered a property from a public
street. These signs shall not contain any commercial advertising.
Signs displayed in the window displaying information such
as the business's hours of operation, credit institutions accepted,
commercial and civic affiliations, and similar information. These
signs shall be informational only and shall not contain a commercial
message.
A sign that is an air-inflated object, which may be of various
shapes, made of flexible fabric, resting on the ground or structure
and equipped with a portable blower motor that provides a constant
flow of air into the device.
An electronic or animated sign that reacts to the behavior
or electronic signals of motor vehicle drivers.
The physical attributes of a sign that allow for an observer's
differentiation of its letters, words, numbers, or graphics.
Light emitted by a lighting installation which extends beyond
the boundaries of the property on which the installation is sited.
A nonpermanent sign that is displayed on private property
for more than 30 days, but not intended to be displayed for an indefinite
period.
An objective measurement of the brightness of illumination,
including illumination emitted by an electronic sign, measured in
candles per square foot (cd/ft2).
A sign or portion thereof on which the copy or symbols are
changed manually through placement or drawing of letters or symbols
on a sign face.
A permanent structure, other than a roof or canopy, extending
from part of the wall of a building, but not supported by the ground,
and constructed of durable material such as metal or glass.
Any sign attached to a marquee for the purpose of identifying
a use or product. If attached to a theater, performing arts center,
cinema, or other similar use, it may also advertise films or productions.
A memorial plaque or tablet, including grave markers or other
remembrances of persons or events, which is not used for a commercial
message.
A permanent sign for displaying the bill of fare available
at a restaurant or other use serving food or beverages.
A type of illuminated, changeable copy sign that consists
of electronically changing alphanumeric text often used for gas price
display signs and athletic scoreboards.
The spreading of one message across more than one sign structure.
A freestanding sign used to advertise businesses that occupy
a shopping center or complex with multiple tenants.
A large picture/image (including but not limited to painted
art) which is painted, constructed, or affixed directly onto a vertical
building wall, which may or may not contain text, logos, and/or symbols.
A sign illuminated by a neon tube or other visible light-emanating
gas tube which is bent to form letters, symbols, or other shapes.
A term used to describe a metric unit of luminance defined
as candela per square meter (cd/m2). The
unit is based on the candela, the modern metric unit of luminous intensity,
and the square meter.
A sign that was legally erected and maintained at the effective
date of this Part, or amendment thereto, that does not currently comply
with the sign regulations of the district in which it is located.
An outdoor sign whose message directs attention to a specific
business, product, service, event or activity, or other commercial
or noncommercial activity, or contains a noncommercial message about
something that is not sold, produced, manufactured, furnished, or
conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located. (Also known
as a "third-party sign," "billboard," or "outdoor advertising.")
Official highway route number signs, street name signs, directional
signs and other traffic signs erected and maintained on public highways
and roads in the interest of public safety or for the regulation of
traffic.
A sign whose message and design relate to an individual business,
profession, product, service, event, point of view, or other commercial
or noncommercial activity sold, offered, or conducted on the same
property where the sign is located.
Signs erected on the perimeter of an organizational sponsored
youth athletic field for the sole purpose of sponsoring or contributing
to the organized youth athletic sport. Signs erected for this purpose
shall be one-sided with a maximum of 32 square feet of gross aggregate
surface area. Sponsors advertising on scoreboards may not exceed 25%
of the surface area of the scoreboard.
A sign attached or affixed to a building, window, or structure,
or to the ground in a manner that enables the sign to resist environmental
loads, such as wind, and that precludes ready removal or movement
of the sign and whose intended use appears to be indefinite.
An on-premises sign that expresses an opinion, interest,
position, or other noncommercial message.
A sign not permanently affixed to the ground, a building,
or other structure, which may be moved from place to place.
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SANDWICH BOARD SIGN — A type of freestanding, portable,
temporary sign consisting of two faces connected and hinged at the
top and whose message is targeted to pedestrians. (Also known as "A-frame
sign.")
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VEHICULAR SIGN — A sign affixed to a vehicle in such a
manner that the sign is used primarily as a stationary advertisement
for the business on which the vehicle sits or is otherwise not incidental
to the vehicle's primary purpose.
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A sign indicating a street or drive which is not publicly
owned and maintained and used only for access by the occupants of
the development and their guests.
A building-mounted, double-sided sign with the two faces
generally perpendicular to the building wall, not to include signs
located on a canopy, awning, or marquee. (Also known as "blade sign.")
A sign erected or required by government agencies or utilities,
including traffic, utility, safety, railroad crossing, and identification
signs for public facilities.
A sign containing any material or device which has the effect
of intensifying reflected light.
A sign which revolves in a circular motion, rather than remaining
stationary on its supporting structure.
A sign erected or maintained in whole or in part upon, against,
or directly above the parapet line or roof of the building.
A sign contained within an athletic venue and intended solely
to provide information to the attendees of an athletic event.
An on-premises sign regulating the use of the premises, such
as a "no trespassing," "no hunting," or "no soliciting" sign. (Also
known as "warning sign.")
The description of a luminaire from which no direct glare
is visible at normal viewing angles, by virtue of its being properly
aimed, oriented, and located and properly fitted with such devices
as shields, barn doors, baffles, louvers, skirts, or visors.
Any device, structure, fixture, painting, emblem, or visual
that uses words, graphics, colors, illumination, symbols, numbers,
or letters for the purpose of communicating a message. "Sign" includes
the sign faces as well as any sign supporting structure.
The part of the sign that is or can be used for the sign
area. The sign area could be smaller than the sign face.
Poles, posts, walls, frames, brackets, or other supports
holding a sign in place.
A sign tacked, nailed, posted, pasted, glued, or otherwise
attached to trees, poles, stakes, fences, public benches, streetlights,
or other objects, or placed on any public property or in the public
right-of-way or on any private property without the permission of
the property owner. (Also known as "bandit sign.")
The exterior facade of a building housing a commercial use
visible from a street, sidewalk, or other pedestrianway accessible
to the public and containing the primary entrance to the commercial
establishment.
A display made of lightweight, flexible materials, consisting
of long, narrow, wavy strips hung individually or in a series, with
or without a logo or advertising message printed or painted on them
and typically designed to move in the wind.
The side or sides of a lot abutting on a public street or
right-of-way.
A banner suspended above a public sidewalk and attached to
a single street pole. These signs shall not contain any commercial
advertising.
Any man-made object having an ascertainable, stationary location
on or in land or water, whether or not affixed to the land.
A nonpermanent sign erected, affixed, or maintained on a
premises for a short, usually fixed, period of time.
An outdoor unit with a slatted face that allows three different
copy messages to revolve at intermittent intervals.
A sign displayed on a vending machine indicating the name
of the product being sold and/or the price of such product.
A sign attached directly to an exterior wall of a building
or dependent upon a building for support with the exposed face of
the sign located in a place substantially parallel to such exterior
building wall to which the sign is attached or supported.
A sign containing no advertising material, warning the public
of the existence of danger.
A sign attached to, placed upon, or painted on the interior
of a window or door of a building which is intended for viewing from
the exterior of such building.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
The following signs are unlawful and prohibited:
A.
Banners and Pennants. Banners, pennant strings, streamers, balloon
signs, and other inflatable devices, with the exception of balloons
used in temporary, noncommercial situations.
B.
Mechanical movement signs, including revolving signs.
C.
Projecting signs.
D.
Animated signs, flashing signs, digital displays, signs that scroll
or flash text or graphics, or signs that display video or streaming
images.
E.
Signs which imitate, interfere with, obstruct the view of, or can
be confused with any authorized traffic control sign, signal, or other
device.
F.
Abandoned signs.
G.
Snipe Signs. Signs shall only be attached to utility poles in conformance
with state and utility regulations and the requirements of this Part.
H.
Signs which emit smoke, visible vapors, particulate matter, sound,
or odor or contain open flames.
I.
Reflective signs or signs containing mirrors.
J.
Interactive signs.
K.
Signs incorporating beacon or festoon lighting.
L.
Any banner or sign of any type suspended across a public street,
without the permission of the owner of the property and road.
M.
Signs erected without the permission of the property owner, with
the exception of those authorized or required by local, state, or
federal government.
N.
Any sign containing information which states or implies that a property
may be used for any purpose not permitted under the provisions of
the West Norriton Zoning Ordinance.
O.
Signs that exhibit statements, words, or pictures of obscene or pornographic
subjects as determined by West Norriton Township.
P.
Any sign that promotes illegal activity.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
The following signs shall be allowed without a sign permit and shall
not be included in the determination of the type, number, or area
of permanent signs allowed within a zoning district, provided such
signs comply with the regulations in this section, if any.
A.
Official traffic signs.
B.
Government/Regulatory Signs. These include governmental signs for
control of traffic and other regulatory purposes, street signs, warning
signs, railroad crossing signs, and signs of public service companies
indicating danger and aids to services or safety which are erected
by, or at the order of, a public officer or employee in the performance
of the officer's or employee's duties.
C.
Signs inside a building, or other enclosed facility, which are not
meant to be viewed from the outside and are located greater than three
feet from the window.
D.
Holiday and seasonal decorations.
E.
Personal expression signs of any type, including flags, provided
that they do not exceed three square feet in area per side, are noncommercial
in nature, and not illuminated.
F.
Address Signs. Up to two signs stating address, name and/or number
of occupants of the premises and do not include any commercial advertising
or other identification; signs not to exceed four square feet in area.
G.
Public Signs. Signs erected or required by government agencies or
utilities, including traffic, utility, safety, railroad crossing,
and identification or directional signs for public facilities.
H.
Signs located on any property for sale or rent, provided that no
single sign shall exceed 16 square feet and four feet in height, and
provided that such signs shall be removed within 10 days of sale or
leasing of the property.
I.
Signs identifying individuals or companies involved in design, construction,
wrecking, financing, or development when placed upon the premises
where work is under construction, but only for the duration of construction
or wrecking.
J.
Signs or emblems of a religious, civil, philanthropic, historical
or educational organization that do not to exceed four square feet
in area.
K.
Private Drive Signs. One sign per driveway entrance, not to exceed
two square feet in area.
L.
Security and Warning Signs. These limitations shall not apply to
the posting of conventional "no trespassing" signs in accordance with
state law.
M.
Flags:
(1)
Location. Flags and flagpoles shall not be located within any
right-of-way.
(2)
Height. Flags shall have a maximum height of 30 feet.
(3)
Number. No more than two flags per lot in residential districts,
no more than three flags per lot in all other districts.
(4)
Size. Maximum flag size is 24 square feet in residential districts,
35 square feet in all other districts.
(5)
Flags containing commercial messages may be used as permitted
freestanding signs, and, if so used, the area of the flag shall be
included in, and limited by, the computation of allowable area for
signs on the property.
N.
Legal notices.
O.
Vending machine signs.
P.
Memorial signs, public monument or historical identification signs
erected by the Township of West Norriton, including plaque signs up
to three square feet in area.
Q.
Signs which are a permanent architectural feature of a building or
structure, existing at the time of adoption of this Part.
R.
Signs advertising the variety of crop growing in a field. Such signs
shall be removed after the growing season.
S.
Incidental signs, including incidental window signs.
U.
Art and murals, provided such signs do not contain any commercial
messaging.
V.
Patron Advertising Signs. Signs erected on the perimeter of an organizational
sponsored youth athletic field for the sole purpose of sponsoring
or contributing to the organized youth athletic sport. Signs erected
for this purpose shall be one-sided with a maximum of 32 square feet
of gross aggregate surface area. Sponsors advertising on scoreboards
may not exceed 25% of the surface area of the scoreboard.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Sign Location.
A.
No sign shall be placed in such a position as to endanger pedestrians,
bicyclists, or traffic on a street by obscuring the view or by interfering
with official street signs or signals by virtue of position or color.
B.
No sign may occupy a sight triangle.
C.
Signs and their supporting structures shall maintain clearance and
noninterference with all surface and underground utility and communications
lines or equipment.
2.
Sign Materials and Construction. Every sign shall be constructed
of durable materials, using noncorrosive fastenings; shall be structurally
safe and erected or installed in strict accordance with the PA Uniform
Construction Code; and shall be maintained in safe condition and good
repair at all times so that all sign information is clearly legible.
3.
Sign Area.
A.
The area of a sign shall mean the area of all lettering, wording,
and accompanying designs, logos, and symbols. The area of a sign shall
not include any supporting framework, bracing or trim which is incidental
to the display, provided that it does not contain any lettering, wording,
or symbols.
B.
Where the sign consists of individual letters, designs, or symbols
attached to a building, awning, wall, or window, the area shall be
that of the smallest rectangle which encompasses all of the letters,
designs, and symbols.
C.
Signs may be double-sided.
(1)
On-premises signs.
(a)
Only one side shall be considered when determining the sign
area, provided that the faces are equal in size, the interior angle
formed by the faces is less than 45°, and the two faces are not
more than 18 inches apart.
(b)
Where the faces are not equal in size, but the interior angle
formed by the faces is less than 45° and the two faces are not
more than 18 inches apart, the larger sign face shall be used as the
basis for calculating sign area.
(c)
When the interior angle formed by the faces is greater than
45°, or the faces are greater than 18 inches apart, all sides
of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area.
(2)
Off-premises signs.
(a)
Only one side shall be considered when determining the sign
area, provided that the faces are equal in size, the interior angle
formed by the faces is less than 45°, and the two faces are not
more than five feet apart.
(b)
Where the faces are not equal in size, but the interior angle
formed by the faces is less than 45° and the two faces are not
more than five feet apart, the larger sign face shall be used as the
basis for calculating sign area.
(c)
When the interior angle formed by the faces is greater than
45°, or the faces are greater than five feet apart, all sides
of such sign shall be considered in calculating the sign area.
D.
Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional
or irregularly shaped objects, shall have a sign area of the sum of
two adjacent vertical sign faces of the smallest cube encompassing
the sign or object.
E.
If elements of a sign are movable or flexible, such as a flag or
banner, the measurement is taken when the elements are fully extended
and parallel to the plane of view.
4.
Sign Height.
A.
Sign height shall be measured as the distance from the highest portion
of the sign to the mean finished grade of the street closest to the
sign. In the case of a sign located greater than 100 feet from a public
street, height shall be measured to the mean grade at the base of
the sign.
B.
Clearance for freestanding signs shall be measured as the smallest
vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the
sign, including any framework or other structural elements.
5.
Sign Spacing. The spacing between sign structures shall be measured
as a straight-line distance between the closest edges of each sign.
6.
Sign Illumination.
A.
Signs may be illuminated, unless otherwise specified herein, consistent
with the following standards:
(1)
Location. The summary table below (§ 27-1606, Subsection 6H) provides detailed information about what types of illumination are permitted in each zoning district.
(2)
Light sources to illuminate signs shall neither be visible from
any street right-of-way, nor cause glare hazardous or distracting
to pedestrians, vehicle drivers, or adjacent properties.
(3)
No more than 0.2 footcandle of light shall be detectable at
the boundary of any abutting property.
(4)
Hours of Operation:
(5)
Brightness. Message center signs and digital displays are subject
to the following brightness limits:
(a)
During daylight hours between sunrise and sunset, luminance
shall be no greater than 5,000 nits.
(b)
At all other times, luminance shall be no greater than 250 nits.
(c)
Each sign must have a light-sensing device that will automatically
adjust the brightness of the display as the natural ambient light
conditions change to comply with the limits set here within.
(6)
Message Duration. The length of time each message may be displayed
on a message center sign, digital display, or Trivision board sign
is based upon the visibility and speed limit unique to individual
signs and adjacent road conditions. The following method should be
used to calculate message duration for message center signs, digital
displays, or Trivision board signs.
(a)
Determine the greatest distance from which the sign becomes
visible on the road the sign is primarily intended to serve. If a
sign is intended to be seen by more than one roadway, the road with
the lower posted speed limit shall be used for determining message
duration.
(b)
Multiply the road's posted speed limit (mph) by 5,280,
and then divide by 3,600 to obtain the speed limit in feet/second.
(c)
Divide the visibility distance by the speed limit (feet/second).
(d)
Add an additional 10% of this number to the total.
(e)
The resulting amount of time is the minimum permitted message
duration, except where this value is less than eight seconds, in which
the minimum message duration shall be no less than eight seconds.
B.
Types of Illumination. Where permitted, illumination may be:
(1)
External. Externally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
(2)
Internal. Internally illuminated signs, where permitted, are
subject to the following regulations:
C.
Message center signs are subject to the following regulations, in
addition to all other illumination requirements established in this
section.
(1)
Sign Type. Message center signs are permitted in the form of freestanding and wall signs, both on-premises and off-premises, in accordance with the regulations established in §§ 27-1607, Regulations by Sign Type: On-Premises Signs, and 27-1608, Regulations by Sign Type: Off-Premises Signs (Billboards).
(2)
Height. A message center sign shall have the same height limits
as other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(3)
Area.
(a)
When used as an on-premises sign, message center signs shall
not exceed 50% of the sign area for any one sign and shall not exceed
more than 30% of the total area for all signs permitted on a property.
(b)
When used as an off-premises sign, message center signs shall
not exceed 50% of the sign area.
(4)
Maximum Number. Where permitted, one message center sign is
permitted per street frontage, up to a maximum of two message center
signs per property.
(5)
Message Display.
(a)
No message center sign may contain text which flashes, pulsates,
moves, or scrolls. Each complete message must fit on one screen.
(b)
The content of a message center sign must transition by changing
instantly (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
(c)
Default Design. The sign shall contain a default design which
shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should
occur.
(6)
Conversion of a permitted non-message-center sign to a message center sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 27-1618, Permits and Applications.
(7)
The addition of any message center sign to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(8)
Public Service Announcements. The owner of every message center
sign is encouraged to coordinate with the local authorities to display,
when appropriate, emergency information important to the traveling
public, including, but not limited to AMBER Alerts™ or alerts concerning terrorist attacks or natural disasters. Emergency
information messages shall remain in the advertising rotation according
to the protocols of the agency that issues the information.
D.
Digital display signs are subject to the following regulations in
addition to all other requirements established in this section.
(2)
Height. A digital display shall have the same height limits
as for other permitted signs of the same type and location.
(4)
Maximum Number per Property. Where permitted, one digital display
sign is permitted per property.
(5)
Message Display.
(a)
Any digital display containing animation, streaming video, or
text or images which flash, pulsate, move, or scroll is prohibited.
Each complete message must fit on one screen.
(b)
One message/display may be brighter than another, but each individual
message/display must be static in intensity.
(c)
The content of a digital display must transition by changing
instantly, with no transition graphics (e.g., no fade-out or fade-in).
(d)
Default Design. The sign shall contain a default design which
shall freeze the sign message in one position if a malfunction should
occur.
(6)
Conversion of a permitted nondigital sign to a digital sign requires the issuance of a permit pursuant to § 27-1618, Permits and Applications.
(7)
The addition of any digital display to a nonconforming sign
is prohibited.
(8)
Public Service Announcements. The owner of every digital sign
is encouraged to coordinate with the local authorities to display,
when appropriate, emergency information important to the traveling
public, including, but not limited to AMBER Alerts™ or alerts concerning terrorist attacks or natural disasters. It
is also encouraged that emergency information messages shall remain
in the advertising rotation according to the protocols of the agency
that issues the information.
E.
Electrical Standards.
(1)
Electrical Permit. In addition to complying with the provisions
of this Part, all signs in which electrical wiring and connections
are to be used shall be subject to the applicable provisions of the
Township Building Code and National Electrical Code. Permits for illuminated
signs will not be issued without an approved electrical permit, if
required. Applications for electrical permits shall be filed at the
same time as the sign permit application.
(2)
All work shall be completed in full compliance with the West
Norriton Electrical Code as set forth in the PA Uniform Construction
Code.
(3)
The electrical supply to all exterior signs, whether to the
sign itself or to lighting fixtures positioned to illuminate the sign,
shall be provided by means of concealed electrical cables. Electrical
supply to freestanding signs shall be provided by means of underground
cables.
(4)
The owner of any illuminated sign shall arrange for a certification
showing compliance with the brightness standards set forth herein
by an independent contractor and provide the certification documentation
to West Norriton as a condition precedent to the issuance of a sign
permit.
F.
Glare Control. All signs shall be so designed, located, shielded,
and directed so as to prevent the casting of glare or direct light
from artificial illumination upon adjacent publicly dedicated roadways
and surrounding property. Glare control shall be achieved primarily
through the use of such means as cutoff fixtures, shields, and baffles,
and appropriate application of fixture mounting height, wattage, aiming
angle, and fixture placement. Vegetation screens shall not be employed
to serve as the primary means for controlling glare.
G.
Illumination of Buildings, Structures, and Areas.
(1)
The use of unshielded lighting, including incandescent light,
neon, or LED bulbs, hung or strung on poles, wires, or any other type
of support, to illuminate buildings, structures, outdoor sales areas,
or outdoor storage areas are prohibited except:
H.
Illumination Standards by District.
|
District
|
Illumination Type
|
Brightness Limitation for Digital Displays & Message Center
Signs
|
Hours of illumi - nation
|
Motion Limitation
|
Size Limitation
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Internal
|
Message Center Sign
|
External
|
Digital Display
|
Digital Display and Message Center Signs
|
Digital Display Signs as Maximum Percentage of Total Sign Area
On Site
|
Message Center Signs as Maximum Percentage of Sign Area
| |||
|
Residential: R-1, R-2, R-3, A, & RR
|
N
|
N
|
Y
|
N
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
|
Commercial: C, L-C, LC&I, B-P, & I
|
Y
|
Y
|
Y
|
Y
|
N/A Daytime: 5,000 nits Nighttime: 250 nits
|
N/A 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour past close of business
|
N/A
|
50%
| |
|
RTMO
|
Y
|
Y
|
Y Conditional
|
N
|
N/A
|
N/A 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. or 1/2 hour past close of business
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
|
RA
|
N
|
N^
|
Y
|
N
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
|
RE
|
N
|
N^
|
Y
|
N
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
|
Off-Premises*
|
Y
|
Y
|
Y
|
N
|
Daytime: 5,000 nits Nighttime: 250 nits
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
50%
| |
|
Non permanent*
|
N
|
N
|
Y
|
N
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
|
Portable Signs*
|
N
|
N
|
Y
|
N
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
|
NOTES:
| |
|---|---|
|
*
|
Off-premises, temporary, and portable signs are subject to the
illumination regulations governing off-premises, temporary and portable
signs, rather than the illumination standards governing the specific
district where the sign is located.
|
|
^
|
Excludes scoreboards located in parks or recreational facilities.
|
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Wall Signs. No portion of a wall sign shall be mounted less than
eight feet above the finished grade or extend out more than 12 inches
from the building wall on which it is affixed. If the wall sign projects
less than three inches from the building wall on which it is affixed,
the eight-foot height requirement need not be met.
2.
Canopy or Awning Signs.
A.
A canopy or awning without lettering or other advertising shall not
be regulated as a sign.
B.
Canopy or awning signs must be centered within or over architectural
elements such as windows or doors.
C.
No awning or canopy sign shall be wider than the building wall or
tenant space it identifies.
D.
Sign Placement.
(1)
Letters or numerals shall be located only on the front and side
vertical faces of the awning or canopy.
(2)
Logos or emblems are permitted on the top or angled portion
of the awning or canopy up to a maximum of three square feet No more
than one emblem or logo is permitted on any one awning or canopy.
E.
Sign Height. The lowest edge of the canopy or awning sign shall be
at least eight feet above the finished grade.
F.
Any ground-floor awning projecting into a street right-of-way must
be retractable.
G.
Awnings above the ground floor may be fixed, provided they do not
project more than four feet from the face of the building.
H.
Multitenant Buildings. If the awning or canopy sign is mounted on
a multitenant building, all awning or canopy signs shall be similar
in terms of height, projection, and style across all tenants in the
building.
3.
Window Signs. Incidental window signs displaying pertinent business
information, such as the business's hours of operation and credit
cards accepted, shall be excluded from area calculations for window
signs.
4.
5.
Freestanding Sign.
A.
The lowest edge of any freestanding pole sign shall be either less
than four or greater than seven feet above the ground.
B.
Freestanding ground signs shall be supported and permanently placed
by embedding, anchoring, or connecting the sign in such a manner as
to incorporate it into the landscape or architectural design scheme.
C.
Sign Placement.
(1)
All freestanding signs shall be set back five feet from the
right-of-way, except for official traffic signs and government/regulatory
signs.
(2)
No freestanding sign may occupy an area designated for parking,
loading, walkways, driveways, fire land, easement, cartway of the
right-of-way or other areas required to remain obstructed.
6.
Manual Changeable Copy Signs.
A.
Manual changeable copy signs are permitted only when integrated into
a freestanding, marquee, wall, or portable sign.
B.
Changeable copy shall be permitted at a maximum frequency of once
per every 12 hours. Once changed, the copy of any part of the manual
changeable copy sign shall not change again in less than 12 hours.
7.
Roof Signs.
A.
Number. There shall not be more than one roof sign for each premises;
except that, where a ground pole sign is located on the premises,
no roof sign shall be permitted.
B.
Area. The gross surface area of a roof sign shall not exceed 32 square
feet for each exposed face, nor exceed an aggregate gross surface
area of 64 square feet.
C.
Height. Roof signs shall not project higher than the highest point
of the roof or building where the sign is attached.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Legislative Intent.
A.
The regulations herein are designed to prevent the overconcentration,
improper placement, and excessive height, bulk, number and area of
billboards. It is recognized that, unlike on-premises signs which
are actually a part of a business, billboards are a separate and distinct
use of the public thoroughfare.
B.
It is intended billboards be located away from view of residential
areas and that such signs be regulated to protect the character of
the area in which billboards are located and to conserve property
values in the area.
C.
The Board of Commissioners of West Norriton Township hereby finds
that billboards may be allowed in appropriate areas when approved
as a conditional use, but that a proliferation of such use endangers
the Township and its neighborhoods of visual blight. Furthermore,
billboards, with their periodically changing content, present special
aesthetic and traffic safety problems to the traveling public.
2.
Locations and Permitted Uses.
A.
Off-premises signs are permitted in the following locations:
(1)
In the LC&I Limited Commercial and Industrial District,
they shall be permitted when authorized as a conditional use.
(2)
In the LC&I District, property upon which the proposed billboard
structure is to be sited must have frontage on Trooper Road (PA Route
363).
(3)
The property must have a minimum lot size of one acre.
3.
Sign Size. Off-premises advertising signs shall be subject to following
size restrictions according to speed limit of the road which the off-premises
sign faces.
|
Posted Speed Limit (MPH)
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
<35
|
36-45
|
46-55
|
56-65
|
Limited Access
| |
|
Maximum Sign Area (square feet)
|
60
|
100
|
150
|
200
|
300
|
4.
Height.
A.
The lowest edge of an off-premises sign shall be at least seven feet
above the finished grade.
B.
Off-premises signs shall have a maximum height of 20 feet. The maximum
overall height of an elevated billboard sign structure shall be 35
feet, measured from the elevation of the center-line grade of PA Route
363 directly in front of the billboard sign to the highest portion
of the sign structure, including support structures and light fixtures.
5.
Spacing. Off-premises shall be:
A.
Set back from the right-of-way a distance equal to the height of
the off-premises sign or 25 feet, whichever is greater.
B.
Located no closer than 15 feet from any property line.
C.
Located no closer than 20 feet from any building, structure, or on-premises
sign located on the same property or any adjacent property.
D.
Located no closer than 500 feet from another off-premises sign on
either side of the road, measured linearly.
E.
No billboard sign structure, or any part thereof, shall be erected
or maintained within 200 feet of any residential district, including
those of a neighboring municipality.
F.
Located no closer than 1,000 feet from any property line abutting
a public park, playground, religious institution, cemetery, school,
or residential district.
G.
Not attached to the external wall or otherwise affixed to any part
of any building and shall not extend over any public property or right-of-way.
H.
Not located on sewer rights-of-way, or water, electric, or petroleum
pipelines.
I.
Not located on a bridge.
J.
Front Yard Setback. The front yard setback for any other building
or structure on the same lot as a billboard shall be calculated as
running from the billboard sign face (i.e., not the right-of-way)
for the entire length of the front yard.
6.
Number of Signs per Lot. No more than one off-premises sign per lot.
Vertically or horizontally stacked signs shall not be permitted.
7.
Content. Off-premises signs shall not display any message or graphic
of an obscene or pornographic nature as determined by West Norriton.
9.
Message Sequencing. Message sequencing is prohibited.
10.
Construction and Maintenance.
A.
All plans for off-premises signs shall be certified by a licensed
engineer registered in Pennsylvania.
B.
All off-premises signs shall be constructed in accordance with industry-wide
standards established by the Outdoor Advertising Association of America
and the Institute of Outdoor Advertising, or their successor organizations.
All off-premises advertising signs shall be structurally sound and
maintained in good condition and in compliance with the Pennsylvania
Uniform Construction Code.
C.
The rear face of a single-face, off-premises advertising sign shall
be painted and maintained with a single neutral color as approved
by West Norriton.
D.
Every three years, the owner of the billboard shall have a structural
inspection made of the billboard by a licensed engineer registered
in Pennsylvania and shall provide to West Norriton a certificate certifying
that the billboard is structurally sound.
E.
Weeds shall be kept out from in front of, underneath, and around
the base of all freestanding, elevated billboard signs and facilities.
F.
No rubbish or debris shall be permitted near any freestanding billboard
sign structures, especially when such rubbish or debris might constitute
a fire hazard.
G.
All billboard sign structures shall be kept free from all hazards,
such as, but not limited to, faulty wiring or loose fastenings.
11.
Landscaping.
A.
Landscaping shall be provided at the base of all off-premises signs.
Trees and shrubbery, including evergreen and flowering trees, of sufficient
size and quantity, shall be provided as deemed appropriate by the
Board of Commissioners of West Norriton Township as part of approval
as a conditional use.
B.
Trees greater than four inches in diameter removed for construction
of the sign shall be replaced on-site at a ratio of one replacement
tree for each removed tree, using a native species no less than three
inches in diameter.
12.
Additional Regulations. All off-premises signs shall comply with
any and all applicable zoning regulations of West Norriton, and any
and all municipal, state and/or federal regulations. In the event
any other applicable regulation is in conflict with the provisions
of this section, the stricter regulation shall apply.
13.
Application/Plan Requirements. Plans submitted for off-premises advertising
signs shall show the following:
A.
The location of the proposed sign on the lot with the required sign
setbacks from the property line and ultimate right-of-way.
B.
The location and species of existing trees.
C.
The distance to the nearest existing off-premises advertising sign.
D.
The distance to the nearest right-of-way, property line, building,
structure, on-premises sign, off-premises sign, intersection, interchange,
safety rest area, bridge, residential district, or institutional use,
sewer rights-of-way, and water, electric or petroleum pipelines.
E.
Certification under the seal by a licensed engineer that the off-premises
sign, as proposed, is designed in accordance with all federal, state,
and local laws, codes, and professional standards.
14.
Illumination and Changeable Copy of Off-Premises Signs.
A.
Off-premises signs may incorporate manual changeable copy signs.
(1)
Changeable copy shall be permitted at a maximum frequency of
once per every 12 hours. All changeable copy on a billboard shall
change uniformly and completely during a period of no longer than
three seconds. Once changed, the copy of any part of the billboard
shall not change again in less than three hours.
(2)
Billboards with changeable copy are permitted to have internal
luminescence. Light source, brilliance levels and colors shall be
subject to conditional use approval, which may include standards limiting
the percent of white or light-color backgrounds to not greater than
50% of the surface area of the sign face of the billboard.
B.
Off-premises signs may be illuminated, provided that:
(1)
All light sources are designed, shielded, arranged, and installed
to confine or direct all illumination to the surface of the off-premises
sign and away from adjoining properties so as not to create a nuisance
or hazard to motorists. In no case shall a billboard in total or in
part consist of a beacon light, festoon lighting, flashing or intermittent
illumination, neon, animated sign, or moving sign.
(2)
Light sources are not visible from any street or adjoining properties.
15.
Safety. In applying for conditional use, the applicant bears the
burden of proof to establish that the proposed off-premises sign will
not create a public health or safety hazard in the matter and location
that it is proposed and in the manner by which it is to be operated.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Limited duration signs, as defined in this section, located on private
property are subject to the regulations set forth below. Limited duration
signs that comply with the requirements in this section shall not
be included in the determination of the type, number, or area of signs
allowed on a property. Unless otherwise stated below, the requirements
listed below shall apply to both commercial and noncommercial signs.
2.
Size and Number.
A.
Nonresidential Zones.
(1)
Large Limited Durations Signs. One large limited duration sign
is permitted per property in all nonresidential zones. If a property
is greater than five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street
frontage or has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional
large limited duration sign may be permitted so long as there is a
minimum spacing of 200 feet between the two large limited duration
signs.
(2)
Small Limited Duration Signs. In addition to the large limited
duration sign(s) outlined above, one small limited duration sign is
permitted per property in all nonresidential zones. If a property
is greater than five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street
frontage or has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional
small sign may be permitted.
B.
Residential Zones.
(1)
Large Limited Durations Signs. One large limited duration sign
is permitted per property so long as the property is greater than
five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or
has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area.
(2)
Small Limited Duration Signs. One small limited duration sign
is permitted per property.
3.
Permit Requirements.
A.
A permit for a limited duration sign is issued for one year and may
be renewed annually.
B.
One sign is allowed per permit. An applicant may request up to two
permits per address but is subject to the size and number requirements
set forth in this section.
C.
An application for a limited duration sign permit must include:
(1)
A description of the sign indicating the number, size, shape,
dimensions, and colors of the sign, and the expected length of time
the sign will be displayed;
(2)
A schematic drawing of the site showing the proposed location
of the sign in relation to nearby building and streets;
(3)
The number of signs on the site.
4.
Installation and Maintenance.
A.
All limited duration signs must be installed such that in the opinion
of the West Norriton building official, they do not create a safety
hazard.
B.
All limited duration signs must be made of durable materials and
shall be well maintained.
C.
Limited duration signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are
no longer legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
5.
Illumination of any limited duration sign is prohibited.
6.
Summary Table for Limited Duration Signs.
|
Limited Duration Signs
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Nonresidential Districts
|
Residential Districts
| |
|
Large Limited Duration Signs (maximum area 16 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 8 feet
|
Number: 1 per property if property is 5+ acres with 400+ feet
of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 8 feet
|
|
Small Limited Duration Signs (maximum area 6 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Temporary signs, as defined in this section, located on private property,
are exempt from standard permit requirements. Temporary signs that
comply with the requirements in this section shall not be included
in the determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed
on a property.
2.
Unless otherwise stated below, the requirements listed below shall
apply to both commercial and noncommercial signs.
3.
Location. Temporary signs may be located in any required yard setback,
but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15 feet of any point
of vehicular access from a zoning lot to a public roadway, provided
the sign does not violate this Part.
4.
Size and Number.
A.
Nonresidential Districts.
(1)
Large Temporary Signs. One large temporary sign is permitted
per property in all nonresidential districts. If a property is greater
than five acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage
or has more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional
large temporary sign may be permitted so long as there is a minimum
spacing of 200 feet between the two large temporary signs.
(2)
Small Temporary Signs. In addition to the large temporary sign(s)
outlined above, one small temporary sign is permitted per property
in all nonresidential districts. If a property is greater than five
acres in size and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or has
greater than 10,000 square feet of floor area, one additional small
sign may be permitted so long as there is a minimum spacing of 200
feet between both sets of small temporary signs.
B.
Residential Districts.
(1)
Large Temporary Signs. One temporary sign is permitted per residential
property so long as the property is greater than five acres in size
and has at least 400 feet of street frontage or has more than 10,000
square feet of floor area.
(2)
Small Temporary Signs. One small temporary sign is permitted
per residential property.
5.
Duration and Removal.
A.
Temporary signs may be displayed up to a maximum of 30 consecutive
days, two times per year.
B.
West Norriton or the property owner may confiscate signs installed
in violation of this Part. Neither West Norriton nor the property
owner is responsible for notifying sign owners of confiscation of
an illegal sign.
6.
Permission. The party posting the temporary sign is solely responsible
for obtaining the permission of the property owner before posting
their temporary sign.
7.
Municipal Notification. Temporary signs are exempt from the standard
permit requirements, but the date of erection of a temporary sign
must be written in indelible ink on the lower right-hand corner of
the sign.
8.
Installation and Maintenance.
A.
All temporary signs must be installed such that in the opinion of
West Norriton's building official, they do not create a safety
hazard.
B.
All temporary signs must be made of durable materials and shall be
well maintained.
C.
Temporary signs that are frayed, torn, broken, or that are no longer
legible will be deemed unmaintained and required to be removed.
9.
Illumination. Illumination of any temporary sign is prohibited.
10.
Summary Table for Temporary Signs.
|
Temporary Signs
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Nonresidential Districts
|
Residential Districts
| |
|
Large Temporary Signs (maximum area: 32 square feet nonresidential;
16 square feet residential)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height:
Ground: Maximum 8 feet
|
Number: 1 per property if property is 5+ acres with 400+ feet
of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height:
Ground: Maximum 8 feet
|
|
Small Temporary Signs (maximum area: 4 square feet)
|
Number: 1 per property; 2 if property is 5+ acres with 400+
feet of street frontage or has > 10,000 square feet of floor area
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
Number: 1 per property
Height: Maximum 6 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
2.
Sandwich Board or A-frame Signs. Sandwich board signs that comply
with the requirements in this section shall not be included in the
determination of the type, number, or area of signs allowed on a property.
A.
Number. One sandwich board sign is permitted per establishment. For
the purposes of this section, a parking garage or parking lot shall
be considered an establishment.
B.
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of seven square feet per
sign face.
C.
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 3.5 feet.
D.
Sign Placement.
(1)
If a sign is located on a public or private sidewalk, a minimum
of 36 inches of unobstructed sidewalk clearance must be maintained
between the sign and any building or other obstruction.
(2)
The sign must be located on the premises, and within 12 feet
of the primary public entrance, of the establishment it advertises.
For the purposes of this subsection, a public entrance includes a
vehicular entrance into a parking garage or parking lot.
(3)
Portable signs shall be weighted, temporarily secured, or strategically
placed so as to avoid being carried away by high winds.
3.
Vehicular Signs. Subject to the regulations found in West Norriton
Vehicle Code.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 27-1605, Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the R-1, R-2, R-3, A, and RR Residential Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 27-1607 through 27-1611 ("Regulations by Sign Type" sections).
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1609, Regulations by Sign Type: Limited Duration Signs.
B.
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1610, Regulations by Sign Type: Temporary Signs.
C.
Building Name and Address Signs. Name and address signs of buildings
containing six or more residential units indicating only the name
of the building, the name of the development in which it is located,
the management thereof, and/or address of the premises shall be permitted
and shall be subject to the following:
(1)
Type. Building name and address signs may be either wall signs
or ground signs.
(2)
Number. One sign per street frontage.
(3)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of four square feet
per sign face.
(4)
Location. Building name and address signs shall not be located
closer than 1/2 the minimum setback required for the zoning district
in which the sign is to be erected or within 15 feet of any point
of vehicular access from a zoning lot to a public roadway. The location
and arrangement of all building name and address signs shall be subject
to the review and approval of the Building Inspector.
(5)
Height. Building name and address signs shall not project higher
than 15 feet for wall signs and seven feet for ground signs, as measured
from base of sign or building to which the sign is to be affixed or
grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
D.
Freestanding signs for residential developments or apartment buildings
containing more than six units shall be permitted subject to the following
regulations.
(1)
Type. Residential development signs shall be ground signs.
(2)
Number. One sign per street frontage.
(3)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 15 square feet
per sign face.
(5)
Location. Residential development signs may be located in any
required yard, but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15
feet of any point of vehicular access from a zoning lot to a public
roadway. The location and arrangement of all residential development
signs shall be subject to the review and approval of the Building
Inspector.
E.
Summary Table for Signs in Residential Districts.
|
Wall
|
Freestanding Ground
| |
|---|---|---|
|
Maximum Number
|
Building Name and Address: 1 sign per street frontage
|
Building Name and Address: 1 sign per street frontage
Residential Developments: 2 residential development signs for
each point of vehicular access to a development
|
|
Maximum Area (square feet)
|
Building Name and Address: 4 square feet per sign face
|
Building Name and Address: 4 square feet per sign face
Residential Developments: 20 square feet per sign face
|
|
Maximum Height
|
Building Name and Address: Wall sign 15 feet
|
Building Name and Address: 7 feet
Residential Developments: 7 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Except as noted below, the following numbers/types of signs may be erected in any industrial district or as the C - Commercial, L-C - Limited Commercial, LC&I - Limited Commercial and Industrial, B-P Business and Professional and I - Industrial Districts, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 27-1607 through 27-1611.
A.
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for the appropriate uses, as defined and regulated in § 27-1612, Signs in Residential Districts.
B.
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1611, Regulations by Sign Type: Portable Signs.
C.
The total area of all wall and awning/canopy signs for nonresidential
uses shall be limited to 1.5 square feet per one linear foot of building
frontage that faces a public street or parking lot, subject to maximum
size limitations based on sign type.
D.
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject to
the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per street frontage, up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant. Where a store has entrances facing both a
street and a parking lot, a second sign is permitted to face the parking
lot.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 32 feet per sign
face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline.
E.
F.
Window signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations.
(1)
Area. A maximum of 25% of the total window area of any single
storefront may be used for permanent signs that are etched, painted,
or permanently affixed to the window. A maximum of 35% of the total
window area of any single storefront may be covered by a combination
of permanent and temporary window signs.
G.
Marquee signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One marquee sign per building.
(2)
Area. The gross surface total area signs on a single marquee
structure of a marquee sign shall not exceed 24 square feet, but limited
to not more than 50% of the gross surface area of the smallest face
of the marquee to which such sign is affixed.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline.
H.
In addition to building signs, freestanding signs for nonresidential
uses shall be permitted, subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number.
(a)
There shall not be more than one ground sign for each lot except
that where a roof sign is located on the premises, no ground sign
may be permitted.
(b)
There shall not be more than one ground sign for each principal
building.
(c)
One sign per street frontage, up to two signs per property held
in single and separate ownership.
1)
For permitted gas stations, one additional freestanding sign
per street frontage shall be permitted for the advertising of gas
prices and identification of the gas station only, up to two additional
signs per property.
2)
For permitted drive-through establishments, one additional freestanding
sign shall be permitted for the advertising items for sale to users
of the drive-through lane only.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 32 square feet
plus an additional 10 square feet per tenant up to a maximum of 64
square feet.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 25 feet.
(4)
Location. A ground sign may be located in any required yard,
but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15 feet of any point
of vehicular access from a zoning lot to a public roadway.
I.
Roof Signs.
(1)
Number. There shall not be more than one roof sign for each
premises; except that, where a ground pole sign is located on the
premises, no roof sign shall be permitted.
(2)
Area. The gross surface area of a roof sign shall not exceed
32 square feet for each exposed face, nor exceed an aggregate gross
surface area of 64 square feet.
(3)
Location. Roof signs shall not be located in any zoning commercial
district except C-Commercial Zoning District and LC&IO - Limited
Commercial and Industrial District. Roof signs shall not obstruct
the view of pedestrians or vehicular traffic.
(4)
Height. Roof signs shall not project higher than the highest
point of the roof or building where the sign is attached.
J.
Manual Changeable Copy Sign.
(1)
Type. Attraction boards shall be freestanding ground signs.
(2)
Number. Each retail/wholesale commercial premises (except automobile
dealerships and automobile service stations) may erect a single manual
changeable copy sign.
(3)
Area. The gross surface area of a retail/wholesale commercial
premises attraction board shall not exceed 10 square feet in gross
surface area for each exposed face, nor exceed 20 square feet in aggregate
gross surface area.
(4)
Location. A manual changeable copy sign may be located in any
required yard, but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15
feet of any point of vehicular access from any zoning lot to a public
roadway.
(5)
Height. A manual changeable copy sign may not project higher
than 15 feet, as measured from the base of the sign or grade of the
nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
K.
Automobile Dealership Signs.
(1)
Service Bay Identification Signs.
(a)
Type. All service bay identification signs shall be wall signs.
(b)
Number. There shall not be more than one service bay identification
sign for each service bay located on the premises.
(c)
Area. The gross surface area of a service bay identification
sign shall not exceed 10 square feet.
(d)
Location. A service bay identification sign may be located on
the outermost wall of any principal building adjacent to a service
bay entrance, but shall not project more than 16 inches from the wall
to which the sign is to be affixed.
(e)
Height. A service bay identification sign shall not project
higher than the parapet line of the wall to which the sign is to be
affixed or 20 feet, as measured from the base of the building to which
the sign is to be affixed, whichever is lower.
L.
Automobile Service Station Signs.
(1)
Wall Signs.
(a)
Number. There shall not be more than one wall sign for each
principal building except that where the building abuts two or more
streets, additional such signs, one oriented to each abutting street,
shall be permitted.
(b)
Area. The gross surface area of a wall sign shall not exceed
10% of the area of the building wall to which it is to be affixed
or 64 square feet, whichever is smaller.
1)
The gross surface area of a wall sign may be increased by 20%,
except that the gross surface area of the sign shall not exceed 64
square feet if such wall sign consists only of individual, outlined
alphabetic, numeric, and/or symbolic characters without background
except that provided by the building surface to which the sign is
to be affixed.
(c)
Location. A service bay identification sign may be located on
the outermost wall of any principal building adjacent to a service
bay entrance, but shall not project more than 16 inches from the wall
to which the sign is to be affixed.
(d)
Height. A service bay identification sign shall not project
higher than the parapet line of the wall to which the sign is to be
affixed or 20 feet, as measured from the base of the building to which
the sign is to be affixed, whichever is lower.
(2)
Service Island Signs. Service island signs shall be subject
to the following:
(a)
Type. Service island identification signs may be either wall
signs or ground signs.
(b)
Number. There shall not be more than one service island or identification
sign for each service or pump island located on the premises.
(c)
Location. Service island identification signs may be located
on the outermost wall of any principal building, on the pumps, or
within the area of a service island.
(d)
Area. The gross surface of a service island identification sign
shall not exceed six square feet for each exposed face, nor exceed
an aggregate gross surface of 12 square feet.
(e)
Height. A service island identification sign shall not project
higher than 15 feet, as measured from the base of the sign or building
to which the sign is to be affixed or the grade of the nearest adjacent
roadway, whichever is lower.
M.
Office and Industrial Park Signs. Office and industrial park signs
shall be subject to the following:
(1)
Type. All office and industrial park signs shall be ground signs.
(2)
Number. There shall not be more than one office or industrial
park sign for each point of vehicular access to an office or industrial
park.
(3)
Area. The gross surface area of an office or industrial park
sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in gross surface area for each
exposed face, nor exceed an aggregate gross surface area of 64 square
feet.
(4)
Height. An office or industrial park sign shall not project
higher than seven feet, as measured from base of the sign or grade
of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is higher.
N.
Signs for a unified development in the LC&I Limited Commercial
and Industrial and B-P Business and Professional Districts shall be
based upon the following standards:
(1)
A unified development may be provided with one ground sign.
The gross surface area for each sign shall not exceed 350 square feet
for each exposed face nor exceed an aggregate gross surface area of
700 square feet. The maximum height for such signs shall not exceed
35 feet. The sign may be positioned along any street frontage, behind
the ultimate right-of-way, that fronts upon a nonresidential use or
nonresidential zoning classification.
(2)
One ground sign shall be permitted for each vehicular access
into a unified development. The gross surface area for each such sign
shall not exceed 100 square feet for each exposed face, nor exceed
an aggregate gross surface area of 200 square feet. The maximum height
for such signs shall not exceed 35 feet; provided, however, that any
ground sign placed along an adjacent roadway which abuts a residential
district shall not exceed the gross surface area of 64 square feet
for each exposed face, nor exceed an aggregate gross surface area
of 128 square feet.
(3)
One additional ground sign shall be permitted for each freestanding
building separated from the major building group(s) proposed in the
unified development. The gross surface area for each such sign shall
not exceed 64 square feet for each exposed face, nor exceed an aggregate
gross surface area of 128 square feet. The maximum height for such
signs shall not exceed 25 feet, as measured from the base of the sign
or grade of the nearest adjacent roadway, whichever is lower; provided,
however, that any ground sign placed along an adjacent roadway pursuant
to this subsection which abuts a residential district shall not exceed
the gross surface area of 32 square feet for each exposed face, nor
exceed an aggregate gross surface area of 64 square feet.
(4)
Wall signs shall be permitted on individual uses within the unified development. Wall signs shall be permitted for an individual use based upon the following regulations. The maximum gross surface area of such signs shall be as prescribed in Subsection N(4)(a), (b) and (c), listed below:
(a)
One square foot of sign area for each foot of distance a premises
or building is set back from the curbline of the nearest adjacent
roadway, up to a maximum of 300 square feet; or
(b)
Two square feet of sign area per linear foot of front building
wall up to a maximum of 200 square feet.
(c)
In either case, the maximum sign area is limited to 25% of the
area of the building wall, including doors and windows, to which the
signs are attached.
(d)
In no event shall a wall sign be permitted to extend above the
top elevation of the building wall to which the sign is attached;
and, further, the height of the sign shall not be permitted to be
greater than 35 feet above the ground elevation at the base of the
building wall.
O.
Off-premises signs are permitted in the LC&I Limited Commercial and Industrial District, subject to the regulations detailed in § 27-1608, Regulations by Sign Type: Off-Premises Signs (Billboards).
P.
Summary Table - General Commercial Districts.
|
Wall and Awning/Canopy
|
Window
|
Marquee
|
Freestanding
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum Number
|
N/A
|
1 per building
|
1 per street frontage, up to 2 per lot (additional signs allowed
for gas stations and drive-through establishments)
| |
|
Maximum Area (Total)
|
1.5 square feet per linear foot of building frontage facing
a public street or parking lot, subject to maximum size limitations
based on sign type
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
|
Maximum Area (Individual)
|
25% total window area (permanent signs)+n 35% (all signs)
|
24 square feet
|
32 square feet
| |
|
Maximum Height
|
The eaveline
|
N/A
|
The eaveline
|
25 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 27-1605, Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the RA Rural Residence District for residential, agricultural, and institutional uses, including schools, religious institutions, municipal buildings, hospitals, clubs, or permitted uses of a similar nature subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 27-1607 through 27-1611.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1609, Regulations by Sign Type: Limited Duration Signs.
B.
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1610, Regulations by Sign Type: Temporary Signs.
C.
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1611, Regulations by Sign Type: Portable Signs.
D.
Signs associated with park or open space use in an institutional district shall comply with § 27-1616.
E.
Signs associated with a residential use or parcel within an institutional district shall comply with § 27-1612, Signs in Residential Districts.
F.
Freestanding signs for institutional uses, other than parks and open
space, shall be permitted, subject to the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per street access, up to two signs per property
held in single and separate ownership.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height of 10 feet.
(4)
Location. A ground sign may be located in any required yard,
but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15 feet of any point
of vehicular access from any zoning lot to a public roadway.
G.
Freestanding signs located on the interior of site used to identify
facilities, on-site traffic, direction, hours of operation, and other
information are exempt from permit requirements, subject to the following:
(1)
Number. There shall not be more than one directory sign for
each office, industrial, and institutional building or complex under
unified control consisting of two or more occupants. Directory signs
shall not be permitted for single-occupant office, industrial, and
institutional buildings and complexes.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 10 square feet.
(3)
Height. Each sign shall have a maximum height of 10 feet.
(4)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
(5)
Location. A directory sign may be located in any required yard,
but shall not extend over any lot line or within 15 feet of any point
of vehicular access from any zoning lot to a public roadway.
H.
Building signs, including wall signs, awning or canopy signs, and
window signs are permitted for institutional uses. The total maximum
sign area of all building signs shall be based on the lot size of
the property and wall area of the building as follows:
(2)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or 20 feet.
(4)
Special Conditions. Where a principal building is devoted to
two or more permitted uses, the operator of each such use may install
a wall sign upon his/her proportionate share of the building wall
to which the sign is to be affixed. The maximum gross surface area
of each such wall sign shall be determined by calculating the proportionate
share of the area of the building wall, including doors and windows
to which the sign is to be affixed, and applying such proportion to
the total permitted wall sign aggregate gross surface area of the
building.
I.
Manual Changeable Copy Signs. Manual changeable copy signs are permitted
only when integrated into a freestanding or wall sign.
(1)
Type. Manual changeable copy signs shall be freestanding ground
or wall signs.
(2)
Number. There shall not be more than one institutional manual
changeable copy sign for each principal building.
(4)
Location. A retail/wholesale commercial premises attraction
board may be located in any required yard, but shall not extend over
any lot line or within 15 feet of any point of vehicular access from
any zoning lot to a public roadway.
(5)
Height. If the attraction board is separate from the main ground
pole size, the attraction board may not project higher than 15 feet,
as measured from the base of the sign or grade of the nearest adjacent
roadway, whichever is higher. The attraction board shall be separated
by a minimum of 12 inches from the main ground pole sign.
J.
Summary Table for Signs in Rural Residence District.
|
Wall, Awning/Canopy, and Window
|
Freestanding
| ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Maximum Number
|
N/A
|
1 per street access, up to 2 per lot
| |
|
Maximum Area
|
Lots < 2 acres:
|
5% of the total wall face area of walls that directly face a
public street or parking lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 24
square feet.
|
24 square feet
|
|
Lots > 2 and < 5 acres:
|
6% of the total wall face area of walls that directly face a
public street or parking lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 32
square feet.
|
40 square feet
| |
|
Lots > 5 acres:
|
7% of the total wall face area of walls that directly face a
public street or parking lot. No single wall sign shall exceed 60
square feet.
|
60 square feet
| |
|
Maximum Height
|
The eaveline
|
10 feet
| |
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 27-1605, Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the RE Recreation District, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 27-1607 through 27-1612.
A.
Any limited duration sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1609, Regulations by Sign Type: Limited Duration Signs.
B.
Any temporary sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1610, Regulations by Sign Type: Temporary Signs.
C.
Signs associated with a residential use or parcel within an agricultural/rural zone shall comply with § 27-1612, Signs in Residential Districts.
D.
Parks and Open Space.
(1)
(2)
Signs located on the interior of the site used to identify various
use areas, facility boundaries, on-site traffic direction, trail use
information, the hours and rules for the use of the grounds, etc.,
are exempt from permit requirements, subject to the following:
(3)
Signs for recreation and sporting facilities shall be allowed,
provided that the following criteria are met:
(a)
Signs on the interior walls or fence of an open stadium or field
shall be one-sided and no greater than 32 square feet in size and
shall be designed to be viewed from the inside of the stadium only,
and nonilluminated.
(b)
One freestanding scoreboard, not to exceed 200 square feet in
area and 20 feet in height, is permitted per playing field.
E.
Freestanding signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject
to the following regulations.
F.
Wall signs for nonresidential uses shall be permitted, subject to
the following regulations.
(1)
Number. One sign per tenant per building frontage up to a maximum
of two signs per tenant.
(2)
Area. Each sign shall have a maximum area of 20 square feet
per sign face.
(3)
Height. Signs shall have a maximum height equal to the eaveline
or the bottom of the second story window sill, whichever is lower.
(4)
Illumination. These signs shall be nonilluminated.
H.
Summary Table for Signs in Recreational Districts:
|
Agricultural, Rural, and Open Space Districts
| |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Wall
|
Window
|
Freestanding
| |
|
Maximum Number
|
Nonresidential Uses: 1 per tenant per building frontage, up
to a maximum of 2 signs per tenant
|
N/A
|
Nonresidential Uses: 1 per street access up to a maximum of
2 signs per lot
|
|
Maximum Area (square feet)
|
Parks and Open Space: Signs on the interior walls or fence of
an open stadium: 24 Nonresidential Uses: 20
|
Nonresidential Uses: 15% of total window area
|
Nonresidential Uses: 32
|
|
Maximum Height
|
Nonresidential Uses: The eaveline or the bottom of the second
story window sill, whichever is lower
|
N/A
|
Nonresidential Uses: 6 feet
|
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
In addition to the exempt signs described in § 27-1605, Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements, the following numbers and types of signs may be erected in the RTMO Revitalization and Traffic Management Overlay, subject to the conditions specified here and in §§ 27-1607 through 27-1612.
A.
Any sign permitted in residential districts, for the appropriate uses, as defined and regulated in § 27-1612, Signs in Residential Districts.
B.
Any sign permitted in commercial districts, for the appropriate uses, as defined and regulated in § 27-1613, Signs in Commercial Districts.
C.
Any portable sign as defined and regulated in § 27-1611, Regulations by Sign Type: Portable Signs.
D.
No off-premises signs shall be permitted.
E.
The maximum height of freestanding signs shall be 10 feet. Ground
monument signs are encouraged.
F.
The maximum height of wall-mounted signs shall be 15 feet, provided
that in no event shall any portion of a sign extend above the roof
eaveline of the building to which the sign is attached.
G.
Illumination. The following illumination types shall be permitted subject to the regulations in § 27-1606, Subsection 6 and the following conditions: Illumination of signs shall be from white or amber color sources only. Illumination shall be from interior sources only, unless the Board of Commissioners shall approve lighting from exterior sources, which shall include a stipulated maximum wattage.
H.
Signs with moving parts or signs with changeable copy (including
digital reader boards) and light sources which shall flash or pulsate
more than once per 24 hours shall be prohibited.
I.
Signs shall not exceed 50 square feet per side.
J.
Signs shall be located behind (out of) the ultimate right-of-way
of adjoining roads, except when a pillar agreement shall be agreed
to between the applicant and the Township.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Unsafe or Unlawful Signs.
A.
Upon written notice by West Norriton, the owner, person, or firm
maintaining a sign shall remove the sign when it becomes unsafe, is
in danger of falling, or it becomes so deteriorated that it no longer
serves a useful purpose of communication, or it is determined by West
Norriton to be a nuisance, or it is deemed unsafe by West Norriton,
or it is unlawfully erected in violation of any of the provisions
of this Part.
B.
West Norriton may remove or cause to be removed the sign at the expense
of the owner and/or lessee in the event of the owner or the person
or firm maintaining the sign has not complied with the terms of the
notice within 30 days of the date of the notice. In the event of immediate
danger, West Norriton may remove the sign immediately upon the issuance
of notice to the owner, person, or firm maintaining the sign.
2.
Abandoned Signs.
A.
It shall be the responsibility of the owner of any property upon
which an abandoned sign is located to remove such sign within 180
days of the sign becoming abandoned as defined in this section. Removal
of an abandoned sign shall include the removal of the entire sign,
including the sign face, supporting structure, and structural trim.
B.
Where the owner of the property on which an abandoned sign is located
fails to remove such sign in 180 days, West Norriton may remove such
sign. Any expense directly incurred in the removal of such sign shall
be charged to the owner of the property. Where the owner fails to
pay, West Norriton may file a lien upon the property for the purpose
of recovering all reasonable costs associated with the removal of
the sign.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect, alter, repair, or relocate any sign within West Norriton Township without first obtaining a sign permit, unless the sign is specifically exempt from the permit requirements as outlined in § 27-1605, Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements.
2.
In order to apply for a sign permit, the applicant must provide the
following information, in writing, to West Norriton:
A.
Name of organization and location.
B.
Name, address, and telephone number of the property owner, and the
signature of the property owner or duly authorized agent for the owner.
C.
Contact person and contact information.
D.
Description of the activities occurring on the site where sign will
be installed.
E.
Description of any existing signage that will remain on the site.
F.
Identification of the type of sign(s) to be erected by the applicant.
G.
Site plan depicting the locations of proposed signage and existing
remaining signage.
H.
Two copies of a plan drawn to scale depicting:
(1)
Lot dimensions, building frontage, and existing cartways, rights-of-way
and driveways.
(2)
The design of each sign face and sign structure, including dimensions,
total area, sign height, depth, color scheme, structural details,
materials, lighting scheme and proposed location.
(3)
Building elevations, existing and proposed facades, parapet
walls, eaveline and the location and size of all proposed and existing
permanent signage.
(4)
Current photographs showing existing signs on the premises and
certifying the date on which photographs were taken.
I.
Permit fee, to be established from time to time by resolution of
West Norriton, shall be paid.
3.
West Norriton shall have 30 business days from receipt of complete
application to review the application.
4.
A permit shall be issued on or before the end of the thirty-business-day
review period if the application for a new sign or renewal complies
with the regulations contained herein.
5.
If West Norriton does not issue a determination within the thirty-business-day
period, the sign permit is deemed approved.
6.
An application for a sign permit may be denied by West Norriton within
the thirty-business-day review period if the application fails to
comply with the standards contained herein. West Norriton shall inform
the applicant of the reasons for denying the application for sign
permit by certified mail.
7.
Upon denial of an application, the applicant has 30 business days
to revise and resubmit the application for review by West Norriton.
In the alternative, the applicant may also appeal the decision of
West Norriton to the governing body within the thirty-business-day
time period. West Norriton, at its next regularly scheduled meeting,
shall review West Norriton's denial of the application.
8.
With the exception of lighting permits for digital signs, these permits
shall not expire, provided that such signs are not abandoned or destroyed.
In the instance that substantial repair or replacement becomes necessary
(i.e., repairs that cost more than 50% of the replacement cost of
the damaged sign), the organization must apply for a new sign permit,
and pay an additional fee, if required.
9.
Optional. All illuminated signs shall require certification in order to demonstrate continued compliance with the brightness requirements set forth in § 27-1606, Subsection 6, Sign Illumination. This certification must be renewed every three years. This will allow West Norriton Township to adjust standards as needed based on changing technology and evaluation of impacts. West Norriton Township reserves the right to assess the brightness of any sign at any time to ensure compliance with illumination requirements.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Signs legally in existence at the time of the adoption of this Part
which do not conform to the requirements of this Part shall be considered
nonconforming signs.
2.
All permanent signs and sign structures shall be brought into conformance
with the sign regulations when and if the following occurs:
A.
The sign is removed, relocated, or significantly altered. Significant
alterations include changes in the size or dimension of the sign.
Changes to the sign copy or the replacement of a sign face on a nonconforming
sign shall not be considered a significant alteration.
B.
If more than 50% of the sign area is damaged, it shall be repaired
to conform to this Part.
C.
An alteration in the structure of sign support.
D.
A change in mechanical facilities or type of illumination.
E.
A change in material of the sign face.
F.
The property on which the nonconforming sign is located submits a
subdivision or land development application requiring municipal review
and approval.
G.
The property on which the nonconforming sign is located undergoes
a change of land use requiring the issuance of either a use and occupancy
permit or a change of use and occupancy permit by West Norriton.
3.
To determine the legal status of existing signs in each of the cases listed in Subsection 2, the applicant shall submit following information to West Norriton Zoning Officer:
A.
Type(s) of existing sign(s) located on the property.
B.
The area and height of all signs.
C.
For freestanding signs, the distance between the curbline or shoulder
and the nearest portion of the sign.
D.
Type of sign illumination.
E.
The material of which the sign is constructed.
F.
The building frontage.
4.
Prior to the events listed in Subsection 2, nonconforming signs may be repainted or repaired up to 50% of the replacement cost of the sign, the sign copy may be changed, and sign faces may be replaced, provided that these actions do not increase the dimensions of the existing sign, and do not in any way increase the extent of the sign's nonconformity.
5.
Nonconforming signs shall be exempt from the provisions of Subsection 2, under the following:
A.
The nonconforming sign possesses documented historic value.
B.
The nonconforming sign is of a unique nature or type by virtue of
its architectural value or design, as determined by the National Park
Service, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, or local historical
commission.
C.
When a nonconforming sign is required to be moved because of public
right-of-way improvements.
6.
All nonconforming temporary signs, portable signs, and banners must
be permanently removed within 90 days of the effective date of this
Part, unless specific approval is granted as provided for herein.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
1.
Signs on premises of legally nonconforming uses (such as an office
in a residential area) may remain until the existing use of the premises
is discontinued.
2.
If a sign wears out or is damaged (including rust, faded colors,
discoloration, holes, or missing parts or informational items), or
is changed for any other reason, the number, size, and area of all
signs relating to the premises shall not be increased beyond the characteristics
of the sign or signs that existed on that property at the time this
Part was adopted.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
Notwithstanding any provision of this Part to the contrary,
to the extent that this Part allows a sign containing commercial copy,
it shall allow a noncommercial sign to the same extent. The noncommercial
message may occupy the entire sign area or any portion thereof, and
may substitute for or be combined with the commercial message. The
sign message may be changed from commercial to noncommercial, or from
one noncommercial message to another, as frequently as desired by
the sign's owner, provided that the sign is not prohibited and
the sign continues to comply with all requirements of this Part.
[Ord. No. 2021-752, 11/9/2021]
The placement of a sign that requires a sign permit without
a sign permit shall be unlawful. Violations of this Part shall be
treated as strict liability offenses, regardless of intent. Violators
shall be fined a daily fee per sign displayed in violation of this
Part. The fee amount shall be established from time to time by resolution
of West Norriton.
