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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 05-26-2015 - C-61 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS AND PLANNING BOARD QUARTERLY PUBLIC HEARING ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: May 26, 2015 Action Agenda Item No. C -6 SUBJECT: Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendment -Sign Regulations DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections PUBLIC HEARING: (Y /N) Yes ATTACHMENT(S): 1. Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance Outline Form - Sign Amendments (UDO /Zoning 2015- 01) 2. Future Land Use Element Map 3. Matrix of Sign Regulations 4. Excerpt of Draft Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) Meeting Notes 5. Proposed UDO Text Amendment(s) INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Harvey Planner 111,(919) 245 -2597 Craig Benedict, Director, (919) 245 -2585 PURPOSE: To hold a public hearing on Planning Director initiated Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) text amendments regarding sign regulations. BACKGROUND: The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved the Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance Outline Form (Attachment 1) for this item at its January 22, 2015 regular meeting. There has been an increase in inquires and interest with respect to development of large -scale commercial operations within the county. Staff is concerned current sign regulations do not offer a suitable distinction between allowable signage for projects developed in urbanizing areas versus rural areas and do not take into consideration the size of the parcel being developed or the amount of road frontage the parcel has. There is also a noticeable lack of clarity within the UDO addressing the development of large - scale properties with multiple tenants necessitating the need for a larger, freestanding sign, advertising local businesses, and on what constitutes a blinking /flashing sign leading to enforcement concerns. The proposed amendment seeks to address these concerns. For more background information please refer to Section B.1 of Attachment 1. Staff has provided a table outlining how other surrounding jurisdictions address signage in Attachment 3. Proposed amendments are contained in Attachment 4. FINANCIAL IMPACT: Please refer to Section C.3 of Attachment 1. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Planning Director recommends that the Board: 1. Receive the request, 2. Conduct the Public Hearing and accept public, BOCC, and Planning Board comments. 3. Refer the matter to the Planning Board with a request that a recommendation be returned to the BOCC in time for its September 1, 2015 regular meeting. 4. Adjourn the public hearing until September 1, 2015 in order to receive and accept the Planning Board's recommendation and any submitted written comments. Attachment 1 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN / FUTURE LAND USE MAP AND UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE (UDO) AMENDMENT OUTLINE UDO / Zoning- 2015 -01 UDO Text Amendment(s) clarifying the allowable sign area for projects in identified Activity Nodes and regulations governing the use of electronic signs A. AMENDMENT TYPE Map Amendments ❑ Land Use Element Map: From: To: ❑ Zoning Map- From - To ❑ Other: Text Amendments ❑ Comprehensive Plan Text- Section(s)- ❑ UDO Text: ❑UDO General Text Changes ❑UDO Development Standards ❑UDO Development Approval Processes �ection(s): 1. Section 6.12 Signs and 2. Article 10 Definitions. ❑ Other: B. RATIONALE 1. Purpose /Mission In accordance with the provisions of Section 2.8 Zoning Atlas and Unified Development Ordinance Amendments of the UDO, the Planning Director has initiated text amendment(s) to modify existing regulations governing allowable signage. There has been an increase in inquires and interest with respect to development of K M large -scale commercial operations within the County, with an emphasis on property located within the: a. Commercial Transition, b. Commercial - Industrial Transition, and c. Economic Development Transition Activity Nodes (please see Attachment 2 for a copy of the Future Land Use Map of the Comprehensive Plan for additional detail). Current sign regulations limit the total allowable square footage for freestanding and wall signs for most non - residential general use zoning districts to 32 square feet (8 feet by 4 feet in size) regardless of the properties location (in or outside of an Activity Node), size of parcel, or amount of road frontage. There is a concern that current regulations do not offer a suitable distinction between development within various identified Activity Nodes (i.e. more urban areas of the County) and rural areas allowing for a sign of suitable size to accommodate a non- residential project on a larger parcel of property. The `one -size fits all' sign limit may, in fact, be a deterrent to non - residential development in the aforementioned Activity Nodes. There is also a noticeable lack of clarity within the UDO addressing the development of large -scale properties with multiple tenants necessitating the need for a larger, freestanding sign, advertising local businesses and on what constitutes a blinking /flashing sign leading to enforcement concerns. The proposed amendment(s) seek to address these concerns 2. Analysis As required under Section 2.8.5 of the UDO, the Planning Director is required to: `cause an analysis to be made of the application and, based upon that analysis, prepare a recommendation for consideration by the Planning Board and the Board of County Commissioners'. The amendments are necessary to address current concerns over advertising needs for development within the urban areas of the county (i.e. the Commercial Transition and Commercial - Industrial Transition Activity Nodes) and clarify the prohibition on the use of blinking /flashing signage by incorporating new definitions into the UDO. Staff will also be using this amendment process to incorporate an interpretation relating to the use of digital displays by gas stations. Historically gas stations have displayed gas prices through an internally /externally illuminated reader board. These displays create unnecessary glare for motorists. We have allowed gas stations to incorporate digital reader board displays to advertise gas prices, reducing glare and eliminating issues of light trespass either through cracked message boards allowing undiffused light to escape or misaligned external light fixtures creating glare for motorists. 3. Comprehensive Plan Linkage (i.e. Principles, Goals and Objectives) Land Use Goal 4: Land development regulations, guidelines, techniques, and /or incentives that promote the integrated achievement of all Comprehensive Plan goals. 4. New Statutes and Rules N/A d. PROCESS 1. TIMEFRAME /MILESTONES /DEADLINES a. BOCC Authorization to Proceed January 22, 2015 — The BOCC authorized staff to proceed with the amendment. b. Quarterly Public Hearin Mav 26. 2015 c. BOCC Updates /Checkpoints January 26, 2015 Planning Board members were sent the proposed amendment via e-mail for review and comment as there was no January 2015 Planning Board Ordinance Review Committee meeting. April 1, 2015 — Ordinance Review Committee Meeting May 26, 2015 — Quarterly Public Hearing. September 1, 2015 - Receive Planning Board recommendation. d. Other N/A 2. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROGRAM Mission /Scope: Public Hearing process consistent with NC State Statutes and Orange County ordinance requirements a. Planning Board Review: January 26, 2015 — Planning Board members were e- mailed the amendment packet for initial review and comment. April 1, 2015 — Ordinance Review Committee Meeting June 3, 2015 — Recommendation. b. Advisory Boards: N/A c. Local Government Review: N/A d. Notice Requirements Legal advertisement published in accordance with the provisions of the UDO. e. Outreach: ❑ General Public: ❑ Small Area Plan Workgroup: ❑ Other: 3. FISCAL IMPACT Modification of existing language will not require the outlay of additional funds by the County. Processing of the amendment shall be handled by staff utilizing existing budgeted funds. e. AMENDMENT IMPLICATIONS The amendment will allow for larger freestanding and wall signs for projects in identified Activity Nodes where there is adequate road frontage necessitating the development of additional advertising space and clarify what constitutes a blinking /flashing sign to aid in enforcement efforts. f. SPECIFIC AMENDMENT LANGUAGE Please refer to Attachment 4. Primary Staff Contact: Michael D. Harvey Planning (919) 245 -2597 mharvey @orangecountync.gov Attachment 2 Future Land Use Map of the Orange County Comprehensive Plan g RD Caswell Coun D E M - - - -� __--=----------- -___ -- RD / i� I Person County as H I a hLr kiver4IN - �'� . ° ,ry .Cre• K�irIV Y2 hedf• •�� N R Fiat River atrsh a II I '� 4 �•• � � , y' �� .:' �' ��� �' J � _�� � �yO<< �•� ° \, 'JIB 6 /' ¢ ••.'- %IA'W�Y.I sR \f �:1►. j Lf 2A f r' ' o �� '� ° ` � ° i •f - � z X4'1 .z• r " h � c� r^���f .r. �,`�. � a o � o � YJ`'.4. •, > � '. �, � ,� Sul y °�^� � ,yam °. r yn • • r � o '� - � � TT�F RI I� - �y +� •� �O. B G k e . o� R � ➢6 r o ' SAN "� , d'� t. J1 �rti F I C7 M l u' "U(YaterS r . o "i� al I Rlr� .ti.�te'r �.ed' x •e. r. F ` 1 / o I � T,� �a� � • +1�: 1� 31 7 /`i e r�H 'Is orbugh Adoption Date: w =,."` • � l t: !� i .�'- � / �!_I � w ° -' r � 7 •f MPRHS i ', - r •�'" �'�`*, ;�� s r 1• \ . �' j. t ` fi�rIJA u r k z Amended through No mbar ' ber aEBANON ' _�i. o r / ny •.�n r > �E�,, ",. ! A car 4j DA ;M ebane \k N �' rim „.g W ".I J R ��7�j /� F _~ `na s N (10 vvk W+ CIO 11 Jlftl< '1 �`” ® _ ' o I�' `o,.�r,••* JR�: °'o us � �" r mom: -� ¢6�EM< 7 I. IRON ` `1' or 00R Legend: Watershed Critical Areas Ifl7`rW r �yc_ w1 _ _ �� _ o�TaF jI QWater Supply Watersheds C 8 FIB ,�, (' 9 QOC /CH /CA Joint Planning Area ` rf.i`•°1 `o + ; !c - " - °q� I -Public Interest Areas Resource Protection Areas rte. ' • °T 1� ".. w -` s' - oa �.. I •• g '�y: y; .�1``q � 10 Year Transition m Y •. ROB' r . ,\� ' �■ a s1 1% _M 20 Year Transition 'RD '°I Rural Residential m < C r °I f Ndl Rural Buffer � . s,+••, « —I• �; _ _ � •- Agricultural Residential ° �•• p ,� a i,s City Limits ETJ s R ° J, Activity Nodes Tj O z 1. �• °` FRr � .� ^Shf R oq /Ri , I � Rural Neighborhood RD 50 Commercial Transition Fill N s Boo < 1 Chatham County -- - - -- -- Commercial- Industrial Transition Economic Development Transition Rural Community TFSO ePHESUSa Rural Industrial R m HURCHRb del Hill I yO 0 1 2 3 4 I RD Miles I' 1 in = 2.75 miles Orange Countyand Plann ng and Inspe t ns Oeparlmeni- Th -s copy prinietl Oecem be 182814 - Map - sforreference ne ly `�I Contact Plann -ng staff forverif t noftlaia- Attachment 3 Jurisdiction Number of Permitted Free- standing Signs Free - standing Sign Size limit(s) Free - standing Sign Setbacks Free - standing Sign Height Limits Number of Permitted Wall Signs Wall Sign Size limit(s) Other Wall Sign Regulations Orange 1 sign per • Most Non- • 10 ft. setback • 24 ft. from 1 sign per 1 square foot of Sign shall not County property per residential property finished building sign for every 1/2 protrude 12 street front 1 districts sign is line /right -of -way elevation at wall/fagade per foot of building inches from the limited to 32 sq. base of sign to street fronts length facing a fact of the ft. in area, top of sign. public street building. • Buckhorn and • Buckhorn /Eno • Most non - Eno EDD2 EDD: height residential districts can have limit of 12 ft. districts sign is sign up to 75 sq. • Hillsborough limited to 32 ft. in area. sq. ft. in area EDD: height • Hillsborough limit based on • Buckhorn and EDD based on size of sign as Eno EDD acreage of site follows: districts can for have sign up to ground/monumen 1. . sh fa i h 75 sq. ft. in t sign as follows: s as a sign height limit area. 1.50 sq. ft. sign of 6 feet, • Hillsborough for EDD wall sign area property less 2. 100 sq. ft. limited to 32 sq. than 5 acres, sign has a ft. unless height limit frontage 2.100 sq. ft. of 8 feet, exceeds 64 ft. sign area for 3. 150 ft. In this case you property 5 -20 s get 1/2 additional acres, sign as a height limit sign area with 3.150 sq. ft. of 10 feet the ultimate cap sign area for on the wall sign property over being 100 sq.ft. 20 acres 1 For parcels having frontage on 2 streets /roadways we would allow for an additional free - standing sign (Section 6.12.12 (A) (4) (a) of the UDO) 2 EDD stands for Economic Development District 3 As with free - standing signs, we allow multiple wall signs on building facades that have frontage along 2 streets /roadways. 10 Jurisdiction Number of Permitted Free- standing Signs Free - standing Sign Size limit(s) Free - standing Sign Setbacks Free - standing Sign Height Limits Number of Permitted Wall Signs Wall Sign Size limit(s) Other Wall Sign Regulations Durham 1 per For non - residential • Sign 32 sq. ft. or • Non- 1 sign per • Minimum wall • Sign shall County property /per land uses in non- less, minimum five residential building sign is 25 sq. ft. not extend street front residential zoning ft. setback from districts - 16 wall/fagade per (i.e. for more than 12 districts: property line, ft. height street front buildings with inches from • 32 square feet in q . Sign exceeding 32 limit. less than 167 the wall of area when the sq. ft., minimum • Non - sq. ft. of wall building, frontage is less 10 ft. setback, residential area) . Sign may than 150 feet, • When adjacent to uses in • Sign cannot extend up to • square feet in residential residential exceed 15% of 12 inches area when the ar property, minimum district — 12 the total wall into a public frontage is 150 12 ft. setback ft. area on which it right -of -way. feet or more. required in all • 40 ft. sign ht. is mounted For non - residential instances. allowed land uses in based on residential zoning property districts: location and land use. • For lots with a frontage of less than 150 linear feet, the sign shall not exceed 12 square feet in area. For lots with a frontage of 150 linear feet or more, the sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area. 11 Jurisdiction Number of Permitted Free- standing Signs Free - standing Sign Size limit(s) Free - standing Sign Setbacks Free - standing Sign Height Limits Number of Permitted Wall Signs Wall Sign Size limit(s) Other Wall Sign Regulations Wake Maximum of 2 • For non- Cannot be located • 30 ft. from You are allowed 2 100 sq. ft. Depends on County 4 signs per residential land within an identified site finished signs per district. individual use uses 100 sq. ft. of triangle — location elevation at property /project. (this includes a sign area allowed. varies per district and base of sign to 1 of these can be a wall and adjacent property use top of sign for wall sign. freestanding • For residential (i.e. residential) a pole sign. sign) uses (i.e. subdivision sign) Typical requirement in . 12 ft. for a 32 sq. ft. of sign commercial area: 50 ft. ground sign area allowed. from a residence (100 ft. if illuminated). • Signs for non- residential land uses located in a residential zoning district, limit is 32 sq. ft. of sign area allowed. 4 Wake County is currently in the process of revising existing sign regulations 12 13 Attachment 4 Excerpt of Draft April 1, 2015 ORC Meeting Notes SUMMARY NOTES ORANGE COUNTY PLANNING BOARD APRIL 1, 2015 ORDINANCE REVIEW COMMITTEE NOTE: A quorum is not required for Ordinance Review Committee meetings. MEMBERS PRESENT: Peter Hallenbeck (Chair), Cheeks Township Representative; Lisa Stuckey (Vice- Chair), Chapel Hill Township Representative; Tony Blake, Bingham Township Representative; Paul Guthrie, At -Large Chapel Hill Township; Buddy Hartley, Little River Township Representative; Bryant Warren, Hillsborough Township Representative STAFF PRESENT: Perdita Holtz, Special Projects Coordinator; Michael Harvey, Current Planning Supervisor; Ashley Moncado, Special Projects Planner AGENDA ITEM 1: CALL TO ORDER UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE (UDO) TEXT AMENDMENTS - SIGN REGULATIONS To review and comment upon proposed revisions to the UDO to modify the existing regulations pertaining to signs. This item was previously sent out via e -mail for Planning Board review and was on the February 19, 2015 Quarterly Public Hearing agenda but the hearing was cancelled due to inclement weather. Staff is bringing these proposed amendments to the ORC since time now permits staff to do so. Presenter: Michael Harvey, Current Planning Supervisor Michael Harvey: Thank you for being here early. We have two items. I would encourage you to email any comments you have. If we could get them by the end of April, I would appreciate it. Reviewed amendment. Lisa Stuckey: Is a digital sign dangerous? Michael Harvey: We say they are because they are a distraction. They change so often and frequently, you are always looking up to see the next advertisement. Paul Guthrie: What about portable signs? Michael Harvey: They are covered under a different section of the ordinance. They are specifically prohibited. Tony Blake: What is a snipe sign? Michael Harvey: Small real estate sign. Pete Hallenbeck: On page 22, "the examples of on premise commercial signs ", a sign on a roof and a 3D figure. Isn't that like a triple? Michael Harvey: It is a triple whammy, it is just the example. 14 chment 5 Article 6: Development Standards 15 Section 6.12: Signs The design of light fixtures and structural supports must be compatible wi e rchitecture of the principal building(s) and identification signs. (1) Where 'ding faces are illuminated, lighting fixtures mus integrated within the architectura n of the buildings. (J) Ground - mounted lightin ' tures must be er -proof and vandal resistant. (K) Hillsborough EDD In addition to the stand established abo , he following standards shall apply within the Hillsborough (1) ting must be high efficiency lighting systems an ing levels must be reduced during non -use hours to promote energy conserva (2) 12:1 minimum /maximum glare ratio. (3) Maximum footcandles = 80 6.12.1 Purpose and Intent The purpose of this Section is to regulate the type, placement and physical dimensions of all signs in the interest of public health, safety and welfare, while recognizing the need for signs within the business community. It is the intent of this section to regulate signs on a per lot basis in conjunction with the zoning designation of the lot as described on the current tax roll weather a sign is directly visible from a street right -of -way or not. 6.12.2 Off - Premise Commercial /Outdoor Advertising Signs' The provisions of this Article establish standards and review criteria relating to the location, erection, maintenance, lighting, setbacks, and use of signs. This includes regulations pertaining to off - premise commercial also known as outdoor advertising (i.e. Billboards) signage. The regulation and permitting of outdoor advertising is also subject to State requirements, including the State Outdoor Advertising Control Act, and Federal requirements. In cases where there is a conflict between County regulations and State or Federal regulations, relating to the location, erection, maintenance, lighting, setbacks and use of outdoor advertising signage, the corresponding State or Federal law shall take precedent. In cases where there is no applicable State /Federal standard, then existing County regulations shall be enforced. General Requirements (A) of any type nor any part thereof shall be erected, painted, poste s ed, placed, rep or hung in any zoning district except in com with these regulations. (B) No person shall erect or maintain a d no property owner shall allow a sign to be erected or maintained on ' operty except in mity with these regulations. (C) A Zonin lance Permit approved in accordance with the ' 'ons of this ' ance shall be required prior to erecting a sign, unless otherwise per ' 1 Staff is adding language to ensure terminology is consistent within the UDO when referencing billboards, which we currently define as `Off - premise Commercial' signs. We are also adding a definition of Outdoor Advertising, referencing our local classification, in Article 10. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -76 Article 6: Development Standards Section 6.12: Signs (A) Signs erected by a governmental agency to regulate, control, or direct vehicula/nc pedestrian traffic; (B) Legal notices, warnings, regulatory or informational signs erected by a public a (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (1) (J) Signs required by law; "No trespassing" signs, not exceeding six square feet in area; eal estate signs, not exceeding four square feet in area; Fla s, emblems or insignia of any national, state or political subdivi on; Prope number signs not exceeding two square foot in area an bearing only address number of premises or other identification of premises not ha ng commercial connotati s; Holiday decol,.�tions in season that do not contain or di Signs on trash r8 Hazardous chem structures; acles, indicating the owner or identification /notification sign: a commercial message; responsible for maintenance; residential and non - residential (K) Signs on newspaper bo Ventrance, (L) Private drive signs, one nce, of exceeding two square feet in area, with the message content lims ' rivate Drive" and the address of any residences utilizing the (M) Security and warning sirivate property warning the public against trespassing, or similar mided that any such sign does not exceed two square feet in area; and (N) Political /shabe in accordance ith the fol wing standards: (1) l Signs are Ilowed in all zone districts. (2) g Com ance Permit shall not required to allow for the placement of a l sign private property. (3) ha be no limit to the number of polite al signs that can be pla ced on operty so long as the placement of th se signs complies with the ns of this Ordinance and the signs do no create a public safety hazard. (4) residential zoning districts, political signs sh not exceed nine square feet or four feet in height. (5) Within non - residential zoning districts, political signs sha not exceed the maximum allowable sign area permitted for freestanding si ns. ( Political signs shall only be erected 90 days prior to the est\da of a general election, school board election, referendum, speciary, or other similar political activity. (7) Political signs shall be removed within 21 days after an ele (8) Political signs shall be allowed within rights -of -way of the System only in accordance with State law. (9) Political signs shall not be allowed on telephone poles, utili of r similar natural objects, and other signs or sign structures. 6.12.6 Prohibited Signs The following signs are prohibited in all zoning districts: (A) Advertising signs resembling traffic signals, traffic signs, emergency vehicles' flashing lights, non - governmental sanctioned signs utilizing the words `stop', `slow', `caution', Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -78 16 Article 6: Development Standards Section 6.12: Signs `danger', or any sign that is likely to be misconstrued by the traveling public as being official governmental signs or emergency warnings or which by their distracting nature create a hazard to motorists; (B) Signs, except for off - premises signs allowed under this Section, advertising an activity, business, product or service no longer conducted on the premises upon which the sign is located. Such signage shall be removed within 90 days from the date of termination of such activity. Upon failure of the owner to remove such signs within the prescribed time, the Planning Director shall take appropriate legal action to have such sign removed; (C) Flashing, blinking, pulsating, signs or signs with moving parts eXGept fer signs sheaving time of day and temperature that are part of an approved sign advertising a permitted business aGtiVit y en a paroel of prop "; 2 (D) Signs with electronic moveable copy, scrolling messages, or other similar electronic displays designed to change /display different advertising messages) more than once an hour or a maximum of 6 times in a 24 hour period.3 The use of electronic displays in off - premise commercial signs is specifically prohibited except in accordance with the provisions of this section' (E) Signs, other than traffic, governmental, street name signs, political signs erected in accordance with State law, or other official governmental or public agency sign, shall not be permitted within any street right -of -way; (F) Roof signs; (G) Snipe signs; (H) Beacon lights, animated signs, trailer signs and snipe signs; (1) Portable signs, unless approved for a special event in accordance with Section 6.12.11(D); (J) Signs supported in whole or in part by water, gas, air, or could otherwise be designated as inflatable signs; Individuals erecting an inflatable sign shall be subject to an immediate notice of violation and shall be required to remove the sign within the time frame it would normally take to deflate the sign, unless approved for a special event in accordance with Section 6.12.11(D); (K) Signs mounted on a single pole or mast; (L) Signs that contain rotating sign panels or objects; (M) Signs that obstruct ingress and egress to any door, window, fire escape, stairway, ladder, or other opening intended to provide light, air, ingress, or egress for any room or building; and (N) Signs that violate any provision of any law of the State of North Carolina relative to outdoor advertising. (0) Signs erected on telecommunication facilities or support structures other than safety notification(s) and those required by State or Federal regualtions.s z On advice from the County Attorney's office we are deleting this language to address a concern existing language is not content neutral. You cannot specific the content of a sign even if it is just `time /temprature'. 3 We need a standard as to what constitutes changeable copy to ensure proper enforcement while allowing some opportunity for said advertising display to be altered during the course of a day. 4 Section 6.12.2 establishes the County's limitations with respect to the regulation of off - premise /outdoor advertising (i.e. billboards). We will continue to ban the use of electronic outdoor advertising so long as said ban is consistent with applicable State and Federal regulations in accordance with NCGS 136- 131.2. 5 From time to time staff has received requests to place advertising signs on telecommunication facilities. To date we have forbidden such placement. Staff believes it is necessary to amend the LIDO to include a specific prohibition to avoid uncertainty. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -79 17 Article 6: Development Standards 18 Section 6.12: Signs (a) Sites shall be limited to one portable sign per right -of -way frontage However, there shall be no more than two portable signs permit t on- site at one time. (b) Signs shall be limited to 16 square feet in area, per sign fac . (c) Signs shall be located in accordance with Section 6.12.3 ). (5) Inflatable Signs (a) No more than one inflatable sign shall be permitte n -site at one time. (b) Inflatable signs shall not exceed 25 feet in heig . (c) Signs shall be located a minimum of 25 feet om all property lines. (6) ecial Event Displays may only be erected for a o week period and must be re oved within five days following the event. (E) Signs Adver 'sing Agricultural Products Produce on the Premises (1) Shall no exceed 32 square feet. (2) Shall be li ' ed to two signs per parcel (F) Temporary Construc 'on and Financial I titution Signs (1) Shall not exceed 4 square feet ' area, per sign; (2) May not to exceed t signs r building site; (3) Signs shall be erected I fter a Building Permit authorizing construction on- site has been issued; an (4) Signs must be remov with seven days after construction work has been completed and the rtificate occupancy has been issued. (G) Directional /Information Signs (1) May be displ ed on parcels of prop rty utilized for non - residential purposes. (2) May not e eed two square feet in area. (3) May co ain corporate logos or other simil graphical displays so long as they provi some necessary information to patro s (i.e. entrance and exit locations, one ay entrance ways, drive through entranc ways, ATM location, etc.). (4) maximum of three directional /informational sign may be displayed on a non- residential parcel of property. (H) Te orary Real Estate Signs, in excess of four square fee in area One sign shall be permitted per building site, not to excee 24 square feet in area. (2) Signs shall not be placed within any public street right -of -way. (3) Signs must be removed after property has been transferred. (1) Landmark Signs Signs shall be erected only after the historical significance of the particular site s been verified and that proposed location of the sign has been approved by the Orange ounty Planning Department and all other related agencies (i.e. NC Department of Transportation). 6.12.12 Signs Permitted in Specific Zoning Districts The following signs shall be permitted in the zoning districts indicated, in accordance with all other provisions of this Section and specific standards for each sign established herein: Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -82 Article 6: Development Standards 19 Section 6.12: Signs (A) On- Premise Commercial Signs (1) These signs shall comply with all state and county building codes and the National Electric Code. Clearance of signs is required from high voltage power lines and signs shall be located in such a way that they will maintain horizontal and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors in accordance with the National Electric Code specifications, provided that no sign shall be installed closer than ten feet horizontally or vertically from any conductor or public utility guy wire. (2) On- premise commercial signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC -1, NC -2, CC -3, GC-4, EC -5, 01, E1, 1 -1, 1-2,1-3, AS, MPD -CZ, MHP- CZ, ASE -CZ, REDA -CZ6 and all of the Economic Development zoning districts. (3) 41­sOn- premise commercial signs shall be setback a minimum ten feet from t e rent, f r ide, and rearall property lines e�and the edge of any existing or projected street right -of -way line `"'h'nheyer is greate Signs greater than 32 square feet, as allowed herein, shall be setback an additional 5 feet. 'In cases where a property abuts a residential zoned parcel of property, the side or rear yard setback requirement shall be doubled. (4) Number of Signs Permitted (a) One on- premise commercial sign shall be permitted per parcel. However, one additional on- premise commercial sign may be permitted for parcels with frontage on more than one right -of -way in accordance with the provisions of this Section. (b) Under no circumstances shall more than one three - dimensional sign be permitted on -site. (c) For multi- tenant buildings and /or sites permitted as a conditional use or conditional zoning district, additional on- premise commercial signs or sign area may be permitted by the Board of County Commissioners with the approval of a master sign plan. (5) Height of Signs (a) Pole signs shall be limited to a height of 24 feet with a mandatory ground clearance of eight feet from the normal or finished grade elevation of the property at the base of the sign. Pole signs shall be mounted on 2 posts or masts. $ (b) Ground signs shall not exceed six feet in height from the normal or finished grade elevation of the property at the base of the sign (6) The allowable area for on- premise commercial signs shall be determined as follows: (a) Single or double -faced signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in area, per sign face except for parcels zoned CC -3, GC -4, 0/1, 1 -2, 1 -3, AS, and MPD -CZ that: (i) Are larger than 40,000 square feet in area, and 6 We are adding references to the recently adopted Agricultural Support Services Conditional Zoning District (ASE - CZ) and the Rural Economic Development Area Conditional Zoning District (REDA -CZ). This is to ensure they are able to erect freestanding signage on the property. 7 Staff is recommending the imposition of a larger setback in those instances were a larger free - standing sign is allowed. "This requirement is currently referenced within the definition section of the UDO. We are moving it here as regulation(s) are more appropriate within the various, applicable, sections rather than being contained within definitions. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -83 Article 6: Development Standards Section 6.12: Signs (ii) Has more than 300 feet of linear frontage alonq a NC Department of Transportation (NC DOT) maintained roadway In these instances signs shall not exceed 64 square feet in area per sign face. (b) For parcels within Economic Development district(s), allowable sign area shall be in accordance with Section 6.12.14 of this Ordinance. kb} c) Three- dimensional signs shall not exceed a maximum volume of 54 cubic feet with no dimension exceeding six feet. Figure 6.12.12.A.6: Three - Dimensional Sign Allowable Volume L 7— - - - -- - ------ - - - - -- NOTE: L x W x H may not exco6d 54 cubic feet with N dimension exceeding 6 feet. (7) An on -pr ise commercial sign may c tain a changeable copy sign as defined in this rdinance. However, the total sig rea, including the area of changeable , co shall not exceed the maximum allowab,a area established in Section . 2.12(A)(6)(a) above. X No on- premise commercial sign shall be oriented i uch a manner as to be directly visible from a major transportation corridor as stablished in this Ordinance. Off - Premise Commercial Signs 9 This would only allow larger signs on property located in the `urban' areas of the County (Le, along US Highway 70, the Efland- Mebane - Buckhorn area, Hillsborough and Eno EDD's) and would not include rural nodes (i.e. Rural Neighborhood, Industrial, etc.). The typical width of a non - residential general use zoning district (i.e. amount of road frontage) is approximately 75 feet. A larger sign shall only be allowed if the project is located within an identified Activity Node, where we encourage large -scale non - residential development, and the lot has sufficient road frontage to accommodate a larger sign yet be proportional to the property. 10 We are establishing the necessary reference(s) to the provisions of the LIDO regulating allowable sign area within our various Economic Development districts. Orange County, North Carolina – Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -84 (C) Article 6: Development Standards 21 Section 6.12: Signs (1) These signs shall comply with all state and county building codes and the National Electric Code. Clearance of signs is required from high voltage wer lines and signs shall be located in such a way that they will maintain h zontal and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors in accor nce with the National Electric Code specifications, provided that no sign sh be installed closer than ten feet horizontally or vertically from any conductor r public utility guy wire. (2) Off- premise commercial signs (billboards) shall be permit within the GC -4, EC -5, 1 -1, and 1 -2 zoning districts. (3) electric tap outs allowing for an independent ligh ource to receive power sh be allowed. (4) Off -pr ise commercial signs shall be consid ed the principal use of property. There sh II be no additional principal uses owed on the same parcel. Off - premise co mercial signs shall not be pe itted as accessory uses. (5) No off - premise ommercial sign shall e located closer than 200 feet to the right - of -way of major t roughfares (i.e. 70, NC 86, NC 40, and NC 57) and 600 feet to the right -of- y for all oth thoroughfares and streets. (6) The height of an off -pr ise mmercial sign shall not exceed 25 feet from the grade of the right -of -way urface grade beneath the sign, whichever is less. The clearance of an off- p ise sign shall not be less than eight feet from the grade of the right -of -w or s ace grade beneath the sign, whichever is less. (7) Off - premise comm cial signs sh be limited to 480 square feet of sign area. (8) In no case shal n off - premise com rcial sign be located closer than 1,000 feet to an existin ff- premise commercial s n. (9) Off -premi commercial signs are prohibit e within the Major Transportation Corrido (MTC) overlay district. (10) No rson may, for the purpose of increasing or hancing the visibility of any o - premises commercial sign, damage, trim, destro or remove any trees, hrubs, or other vegetation in the following locations: (a) Within the right -of -way of any public street or roa unless the work is done pursuant to the express written authorization the North Carolina Department of Transportation; (b) On property that is not under the ownership or control of e person responsible for such work, unless the work is done pursuan o the express authorization of the property owner where the vegeta ' n is located; and, (c) In any area where such vegetation is required to remain under a pe it issued in accordance with this Ordinance. Wall Signs (1) Shall either be mounted or painted on a building. (2) Wall signs may be internally illuminated and shall comply with all applicable state and county building codes and the National Electric Code. (3) Wall Signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC -1, NC -2, CC -3, GC -4, EC -5, 01, E1, 1 -1, 1-2,1-3, AS, MPD -CZ, ASE -CZ, REDA -CZ and all of the Economic Development zoning districts. (4) All wall signs shall be offset a minimum of ten feet from the corner of the building on which it is mounted. (5) Wall signs shall not protrude more than 12 inches from the face of building on which it is mounted. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -85 Article 6: Development Standards 22 Section 6.12: Signs (6) Number of Signs Permitted (a) Only one wall sign shall be permitted per building facade. In cases where a building is located on a corner lot, an additional wall sign may be permitted on the building wall facing the second street right -of -way, subject to the requirements of this Ordinance. (b) For multi- tenant buildings permitted as a conditional use or conditional zoning district additional wall signs may be permitted by the Board of County Commissioners. (7) The allowable sign area shall be determined as follows: One square foot of sign area for every 1/2 foot of building length facing a public right -of -way, not to exceed 32 square feet except for parcels zoned CC -3, GC -4, 0/1, 1-2,1-3, AS, and MPD -CZ that: (i) Are larger than 40,000 square feet in area, and (ii) The structure has more than 100 linear feet of building length facing a public right -of -way, and (iii) Has more than 300 feet of linear frontage along a NC Department of Transportation (NC DOT) maintained roadway In these instances sions shall not exceed 64 square feet in area per sion face. (8) A changeable copy sign may be utilized as a wall sign. (9) Wall signs shall not extend above the soffit, parapet, or eave line of the building to which it is attached. (10) For parcels within Economic Development district(s), allowable sign area shall be in accordance with Section 6.12.14 of this Ordinance. , (D) Projecting Signs (1) Projecting signs shall be mounted on a building. 2) Projecting signs may be internally illuminated and shall comp ith all applicable state and county building codes and the National Electric de. (3) rojecting signs shall be permitted within the followin oning districts: LC -1, NC- 2, C -3, GC -4, EC -5, 01, E1, 1 -1, 1 -2, 1 -3, AS, MP Z and all of the Economic Deve ment zoning districts. (4) Projecting ' ns shall adhere to the mini m setback requirements established for all structure within the zoning dis ' t in which it is located. (5) Only one projecting ' ns shall b ermitted per building facade even in cases of a building located on a me r t. (6) The allowable sign area a e determined as follows: (a) One squar oot of sign a for every 1/2 foot of building length, facing a public ri t -of -way, not to exc d 32 square feet in area. (7) Projecting ' ns shall clear sidewalks and estrian paths by a height of at least ten fee ove finished grade. (8) Pr ' cting signs shall not extend above the soffit, p et, or eave line of the uilding to which it is attached. (9 Projecting signs shall not be located at the corner of a buildi except at right angles to the building fagade. Window Signs Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -86 Article 6: Development Standards Section 6.12: Signs (1) Window signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC-1,14C-2, CC -3, GC -4, EC -5, 01, E1, 1 -1, 1-2,1-3, AS, MPD -CZ and all of the Econo is Development zoning districts. (2) Window signs shall be limited to a maximum of 30% of the total w' dow area where the sign is to be located. Window signs may be utilized for advertising specials or s s within the business, or displaying the name and other pertinent bu ' ess information associated with the principal use. (4) Si s may be etched, painted or otherwise attac d to be made a permanent addi n to the pane of glass. (F) Awning Signs (1) Awning signs all be permitted within e following zoning districts: LC -1, NC -2, CC -3, GC -4, E 01, E1, 1 -1, 1 -2, 1-, AS, MPD -CZ and all of the Economic Development zonin districts. S Section 6.12.14(E) for additional standards for Awning Signs loca in Ec omic Development Districts. (2) Awning Signs shall be loc d above the main entrance to a nonresidential land use and shall contain th na of the use. (3) Awning Sign areas II be limite a maximum of 50% of the total awning area erected over the trance of a nonre 'dential land use. Where an awning sign is utilized at a m i -use development, the mount of sign area shall be computed as part of t overall sign area allotted to II signs, not to exceed 50% of the total awn' g area. (G) Drive -Throu Menu Signs (1) plicants must establish to the satisfaction of the PI ning Director that a drive - hrough menu sign is considered a customary accessor se to the principal business on the property and is necessary for the normal o rations of the commercial operation. (2) Signs shall be limited to 32 square feet in area. \ (3) No external illumination shall be permitted. (4) A land use that utilizes such a sign shall also be permitted an independentN speaker box, no greater than 12 square feet in area with a height no greater four feet. 6.12.13 Siqn Standards for Specific Uses In addition to the requirements contained herein, the following land uses shall adhere to these additional standards: (A) Changeable Copy Signs Utilized by Churches or Public Entities (1) Shall not exceed 32 square feet in area. (2) Bulletin boards /reader boards may be internally illuminated. (B) Service Stations /Gas Station (1) Signs may be erected above gas pumps subject to the following standards: (a) No internal or external illumination shall be permitted; (b) Signs shall be limited to four square feet in area; and (c) Signs must advertise items for sale on the property. Under no circumstances may a sign advertise a sale, activity, business, or product not associated with the principal use of property. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -87 23 Article 6: Development Standards Section 6.12: Signs (2) Signs may be erected on the canopy covering gas pumps subject to the following (i) Rules and regulations governing th operation of the facility; (ii) Educational information identifying uni e aspects of the facility, the property itself, or significant environ \nenan atures that are located on the property; and (iii) Identification of sponsors or public /privarships that are responsible for the development, upkee'ntenance of existing recreational amenities. (b) While some of this information could be construng a ertising material, the County views such signs as identif respo ible for the existence of the facility and allows for recof entities at have entered into partnerships with the operatocility to prov e local residents with recreational opportunities. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -88 R (3) standards: (a) Advertising material shall be limited to trademarks, logos, and the name of the service station or other similar display. (b) Such displays shall be limited to six square feet of area. The advertisement of oas prices may be displayed electronically as part of an approved on- premise sion. (C) Yard Sales /Garage (1) Signs shall be erected on the property where the sale is taking place. (2) Signs shall be limited to four square feet of area. (3) No off -site displays shall be permitted. (4) Signs shall be removed no later than sunset of the day the event ccurs. (D) I titutional Uses and Private Parks Located within Residential Z ling Districts (1) One ground and one wall sign shall be permitted; (2) aximum sign area shall be 32 square feet per sign fac ; and (3) No round sign shall exceed six feet in height. (E) Home Occup ions (1) The Hom Occupation shall have a valid Zoni Compliance Permit issued by Orange Co ty; (2) There shall onl be one sign limited to ei t square feet in area and four feet in height; (3) Such sign shall not b illuminated any means; (4) Sign shall not be locate within y public street right -of -way, sight visibility triangle, easement, vehic r ea or other similar area; and (5) The sign message shall b i 'ted to the business name and telephone number. (F) Parks, Public and Non - profit; ecreati al Facilities, Non - Profit; Recreational Facilities, Golf Courses; an Recreation Facilities, Profit (1) Purpose and Int t (a) Unlike igns for non - residential d elopment(s), signs for recreational land ses are intended to serve a di erent function and purpose. Signs wi in these types of land uses are int ded to provide essential ' formation concerning: (i) Rules and regulations governing th operation of the facility; (ii) Educational information identifying uni e aspects of the facility, the property itself, or significant environ \nenan atures that are located on the property; and (iii) Identification of sponsors or public /privarships that are responsible for the development, upkee'ntenance of existing recreational amenities. (b) While some of this information could be construng a ertising material, the County views such signs as identif respo ible for the existence of the facility and allows for recof entities at have entered into partnerships with the operatocility to prov e local residents with recreational opportunities. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -88 R Article 6: Development Standards 25 Section 6.12: Signs (vi) Informational kiosks shall be located a minimum of five f from any active recreational activity fields (i.e. soccer, base II, football, etc) or one foot from any established natur , man -made trail, and /or passive recreational area. (vii) Informational kiosks shall be set back a min' um of ten feet from all property lines. (viii) An informational kiosk may contain t name, logo, or slogan of a sponsor that is responsible for t development /upkeep /mainten ce of the recreational amenity subject to the following limit ions: a. The name and logo of a sponsor shall not take up more than 2 /o of the total kiosk area. b. No other vertising material shall be permitted on the kiosk. (e) Directional Sig (i) Shall ta alto d in an effort to provide information to visitors on the i on of re eational amenities or offices located on the /pi)�Directional erty. signs shall b limited to six square feet in area. ctional signs shall not in de any advertising material. (iv) All directional signs shall be grou \'mum s not exceeding seven feet in height. (v) All directional signs shall be locatef five feet from any active recreational activity fielm any established nature or man -made t set back a minimum of ten feet from all prope (f) Scoreboards (i) One scoreboard, not to exceed 144 square feet, shall be permitted for each athletic field 6.12.14 Additional Standards for Economic Development Districts In addition to the overall sign standards established herein, the following specific standards shall apply in the Economic Development Districts: (A) General Standards (1) A sign plan must be submitted and approved as part of the comprehensive site plan or master plan. (2) For multiple use sites or buildings, unified directional /informational signs and the use of coordinated individual wall signs is the preferred approach to business identification. (3) Sign colors must not be overpowering but must accent the building which the sign identifies or on which it is mounted. (4) The light from an illuminated sign must not be permitted to shine into any road right -of -way or across property lines. (5) In addition to the prohibited signs in Section 6.12.6, the following types of signs are prohibited in the Economic Development Districts: off premises advertising signs, billboards, inflatable, and portable signs. (B) Identification Signs Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -91 (C) (D) Article 6: Development Standards Section 6.12: Signs (1) Freestanding IdentiflGatiGnOn- premIse Commercial Signs" (a) Only one freestanding ideRtifiGatinnon- premise commercial sign is permitted for each development. However, a second sign may be permitted where a site has more than one vehicular entrance on different sides of the building. (b) A freestanding commercial sign must be placed perpendicular to approaching vehicular traffic so that it is clearly visible and does not obstruct the view of any other identification or information sign. (c) A freestanding identifiGatinnon- premise commercial sign must be located at least 10 -feet from any property line or driveway. (2) Buckhorn EDD & Eno EDD Only The following criteria shall govern the number, size, and height of identification signs in the Buckhorn and Eno EDDs: TABLE 6.12.14.B.3: BUCKHORN AND ENO EDD IDENTIFICATION I& D. -D Maximum Number of Signs 3 per use Maximum Number of Free g On- premise 1 per use Commercial Signs Maximum Total Square Footage of All Signs 200 s . ft. Maximum Size of Any Sin 75 s . ft. Maximum Height of Any Sign 12 ft._ Directional /Informational Signs In lieu of the requirements contained in Section 6.12.11(G), the following req ' ments shall apply to Directional /Informational signs located in Economic Develo ent Districts: 1) Information signs must be placed perpendicular to approac ' g traffic so that they are visible and legible. (2) s must be located outside of the site visibilit jangle. (3) Informa signs must be positioned to av ' confusing backgrounds, particularly w they are intended to ' ect vehicular traffic on or to- and -from the site. (4) Information signs may b d no closer than six feet to the edge of a road or drive, and, in no case, t be located within a street right -of -way unless they are erected by overnmen gency. (5) Information si may not exceed four fe in height. (6) Informa ' signs may not contain advertising m r l or exceed six square feet in a Tern ary Signs Temporary signs may be used for construction and real estate info tion, and future tenant identification, in accordance with the provisions of this Se ' n. Awnings "Staff is modifying existing language to ensure we are using consistent language throughout the UDO when identifying a sign. lz We are keeping the height of signs erected within our Economic Development Districts the same. From our standpoint there was a conscious decision by the County to have different allowable signs heights for projects in and outside of Economic Development districts and we are going to preserve this distinction. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 6 -92 R Article 10: Definitions Section 10.1: Definitions n Burning Of Trees, Limbs, Stumps And Construction Debris Associated With ermitted Activity The disp I of limbs, stumps and construction debris associated with the permitted a ' ity by means of outdoor fires. Open Space - (fie ' e development) "Primary Conservation Area ' nd "Secondary Conservation Areas ", defined in Section 7.13, which are preserved through conservati easements or other restrictio in a flexible development subdivision. Open Space - (land use intensity A. Open space is the total horizontal area area of covered open space subject to I -ed open space plus half the total horizontal set forth below. B. Uncovered open space is total gros nd area n overed by buildings, plus open exterior balconies and roof areas impro as recreation spa c C. Covered open space is us open space closed to the s but having two clear unobstructed open or partially open s' s. Partially open sides is to be cons d as 50% or more. Examples of covered space :a covered balconies, covered portions of impro roof areas, or space under buildings suppo d on columns or posts or cantilevered. The square fo e countable as covered op space shall not exceed the square footage of the open space es. Open S e Ratio The m' ' um square footage of open space required for each square foot of gross land area. This inc es parking and vehicular access areas and it can also include balconies, and roofs improved for r creation. Outdoor Advertising See Sign, Off - premise Commercial Outdoor Advertising Industry N�,organizations that provide outdoor displays or display space on a lease or rental Outdo o Ming Installation of li in equipment, whether attached to poles, building structur , the earth, or any other location to allow fo e illumination of a building and exterior areas) withi e the of a defined property line. Included open air spaces on a property, which are u er a roof or other cover and not fully enclosed such as a ca pavilion, drive - through bay, or par ' g deck. Outdoor Lighting, Cutoff Fix e A fixture shielded or constructed in such anner that more than 2'/2% of the total light emitted by the fixture is projected above the horizontal p e o e fixture. Outdoor Lighting, Direct Light Light emitted directly from the lamp, off he reflector diffu or through the refractor or diffuser lens, of a luminaire. Outdoor Lighting, Fix e The assembly that hous he lamp or he and can include all or some of following parts: a housing, a mounting cket or pole socket, a lamp holder, a ballast, a reflector o irror, and /or a refractor or lens. Outdoo ighting, Flood Lamp A for f lighting designed to direct its output in a specific direction with a reflector formed from the en ope of the lamp itself. Such lamps are so designated by the manufacturers and are typically u sidential outdoor area lighting. Orange County, North Carolina — Unified Development Ordinance Page 10 -29 27 A—sian structure advertising an establishment, mercha e, service, or entertainment that is not sold, produced, ma ctured, or furnished at the property on which said sign f ted. This definition includes billboards and other simila oor advertising mechanisms. ■ Example of an off - premise commerc i n includes: Article 10: Definitions 28 Section 10.1: Definitions Sign, Off - Premise 5AWIOUS A sign located off t roperty of a religious facility intended to provide directional i ation as to the location of a afic religious facility. Such signs shall only be erected at major roadway i sections and co the name and address of the facility as well as a directional arrow to provide motoris i of which road is necessary to access the facility. Sign, On- Premise Commercial A sign that pertains to the use of the premises where it is located and can include pole mounted and /or ground;monument signs. On- Premise Commercial Signs can contain changeable copy or a reader board so long as the total square footage allowed for the sign is not exceeded. or poles or ground mounted. 13 Examples of on- premise commercial signs include: n uwner n A person recor e. presumed to be the perty on which a sign is located is to the con r or otherwise ion of the Planning Director (e.g., a sign leased from a sign company). Sign, Pole A sign that is elevated above the ground by one or upright supports placed upon the ground and not attached to any part of a building. I ' al For the purposes o ce, a sign used in connection with a I or national election or referendum. Sign, Por 13 Standard moved to Section 6.12.12 (5) (a) Orange County, North Carolina – Unified Development Ordinance Page 10 -44