HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - 05-23-2016 - C.2 -Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendment – Sign Amendments 46
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
QUARTERLY PUBLIC HEARING ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: May 23, 2016
Action Agenda
Item No. C.2
SUBJECT: Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendment — Sign Amendments
DEPARTMENT: Planning and Inspections
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
1. Comprehensive Plan and Unified Michael D. Harvey, Planner III (919) 245-2597
Development Ordinance Outline Form Craig Benedict, Planning Director
(UDO & Zoning 2015-01) (919) 245-2575
2. Draft May 4, 2016 Planning Board James Bryan, Staff Attorney (919) 245-2319
Minutes
3. May 4, 2016 Planning Board Statement of
Consistency
4. Statement of Consistency
5. Proposed UDO Text Amendment
PURPOSE: To hold a public hearing on a Planning Director initiated text amendment to the
Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) modifying existing sign regulations.
BACKGROUND: As the Board may already be aware, staff has been working on amendments
to existing sign regulations for approximately 1 year. Originally staff focused on expanding
advertising needs for non-residential development on larger parcels of property and establishing
uniform standards for digital signage.
During the course of working on the amendment package the US Supreme Court issued a ruling
in Reid versus Town of Gilbert impacting the regulation of signage by local governments.
During the summer/fall of 2015 and spring of 2016, staff worked with the County Attorney's
office to modify the proposed amendment package to address the Court's findings. Several
iterations of potential sign amendments were reviewed and discussed at the Planning Board's
Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) with the plan for eventual presentation at the May 23,
2016 Quarterly Public Hearing. Please refer to Section B of Attachment 1 for more background
information.
At the recommendation of the County Attorney's office, amendments designed to address the
impacts of the aforementioned US Supreme Court decision will not be included as part of this
process. The Attorney's office would like more time to work with staff and discuss the impacts
of the Gilbert court case before proceeding with a comprehensive amendment package.
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As a result staff has proposed an amendment package, as contained within Attachment 3, which
does the following:
1. Eliminates superfluous sign regulations contained in Section(s) 5.5.4 and 5.5.6 of the
UDC);
2. Corrects identified grammatical errors and contradictory language in Section(s) 6.12.1
and 6.12.3;
3. Establishes standards defining what constitutes an electronic scrolling message sign in
Section 6.12.6; and
4. Recommends the adoption of new standards allowing for larger signage within specific
non-residential zoning districts based on the size and road frontage of a parcel of
property.
Work to address the impact of the Gilbert US Supreme Court case will be presented at a future
public hearing once a new Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance
Amendment Outline Form is reviewed and acted upon by the BOCC.
Planning Director's Recommendation: The Planning Director recommends approval of
proposed text amendments, including the:
i. Statement of Consistency contained in Attachment 4, which indicates the proposed
text amendments are consistent with the adopted Comprehensive Plan, are
reasonable, and are in the public interest, and
ii. The text amendment as contained in Attachment 5.
Planning Board Recommendation: At its May 4, 2016 meeting, the Board voted unanimously to
recommend approval of the Statement of Consistency and the amendment package. Draft
minutes from this meeting are contained in Attachment 2. The Planning Board's signed
Statement of Consistency is included within Attachment 3.
Agenda materials from the May 4, 2016 Planning Board meeting can be viewed at:
http://www.orangecountync.gov/5.4.16%20PB%20Agenda%20Package.pdf.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: Please refer to Section C.3 of Attachment 1.
SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals is applicable to
this agenda item:
GOAL: ESTABLISH SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE LAND-USE AND
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of people of all races, cultures, incomes
and educational levels with respect to the development and enforcement of
environmental laws, regulations, policies, and decisions. Fair treatment means that no
group of people should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental
consequences resulting from industrial, governmental and commercial operations or
policies.
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RECOMMENDATION(S): The Administration recommends the Board:
1. Receive the proposed amendments to the UDO as detailed in this abstract and
attachments.
2. Conduct the public hearing and accept comment on the proposed amendments.
3. Close the public hearing.
4. Decide on one of the following options:
a. Adopt the proposed amendments by approving the Statement of Consistency
(Attachment 4) and Ordinance (Attachment 5).
b. Defer a decision to a later BOCC regular meeting date.
c. Refer the item back to the Planning Board for a specific purpose.
Attachment 1 49
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN / FUTURE LAND USE MAP
AND
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE (UDO)
AMENDMENT OUTLINE
UDO / Zoning-2015-01
UDO Text Amendment(s) clarifying allowable sign area.
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
Section(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.
Current regulations do not offer a suitable distinction between various types of
commercial development allowing for a sign of suitable size to accommodate a non-
1
50
residential project on a larger parcel of property.
The amendment was previously also attempting to revise existing regulations to
address a US Supreme Court decision. After reviewing the issue with the County
Attorney's office, work these revisions will be delayed to afford additional review time.
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'.
There has been an increase in inquires and interest with respect to development of
large-scale commercial operations within the County.
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 property's location, size of parcel, or amount
of road frontage. The `one-size fits all' sign limit may, in fact, be a deterrent to non-
residential development.
There is also a noticeable lack of clarity within the UDO addressing what constitutes
a blinking/flashing sign, or digital signage with scrolling messages, leading to
enforcement concerns.
The amendments are necessary to address current concerns over advertising needs for
non-residential development on larger parcels within the County and clarify the prohibition
on the use of blinking/flashing signage by incorporating new definitions into the UDO.
As the Board is aware from past discussion, recent court decisions impact the
County's sign regulations. In the Reid versus Town of Gilbert US Supreme Court
case, the court found sign regulations cannot be seen as allowing/disallowing a sign
based on its content. For more information on the case and its potential impacts
please refer to the following: http://canons.sog.unc.edu/?p=8167.
While work had commenced on amendments designed to address the impacts of Gilbert,
the Attorney's office has recommended additional time be allotted to the review and
processing same. Staff will be bringing forward a new Amendment Outline Form in the
near future outlining the timeline for completion and review of these revisions but is
proceeding with an amendment package to address the concern(s) detailed herein.
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
Proposed amendments are designed to offer clarity on existing regulations and
expand advertising opportunities for large parcels of property. Future amendments
will be necessary to address the impacts of the Reed versus Town of Gilbert US
Supreme Court case.
2
51
a. 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 Hearing
May 23, 2016
STAFF COMMENT: This item was originally intended for presentation at
the February 19, 2015 Quarterly Public Hearing, which was cancelled due
to weather.
Further delays were the result of various court proceedings. For more
information on recent court decisions relating to sign regulations please
refer to the following: http://canons.sog.unc.edu/?p=8167.
c. BOCC Updates/Checkpoints
January 22, 2015 — Approval of Amendment Outline form authorizing staff to
proceed with project.
April 1, 2015 Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) meeting (BOCC received
materials).
December 2, 2015 Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) meeting (BOCC
received materials).
STAFF COMMENT: this item was pulled from the ORC agenda the day of
the meeting.
March 2, 2016 —Planning Board meeting (BOCC received materials).
April 6, 2016 —Planning Board meeting (BOCC received materials).
May 4, 2016 — Planning Board meeting (BOCC receives materials).
May 23, 2016 — Public Hearing.
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.
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52
April 1, 2015 — ORC. During this meeting the following comment(s) were made:
• A Board member asked if digital signs were dangerous?
STAFF COMMENT: Staff believes digital signs pose several issues for
motorists due to the frequency of the sign's message being changed as
well as the incorporation of a scrolling message. We believe they
represent a distraction as motorists are frequently looking at the sign to
see the next advertisement.
• A Board member asked how portable signs are addressed.
STAFF COMMENT: Portable signage is addressed in Section 6.12.6 of
the UDO and are specifically banned.
• A Board member asked what constituted a snipe sign.
STAFF COMMENT: As detailed in Article 10 Definitions of the UDO a
snipe sign is a small sign advertising services (i.e. `We Buy Houses') or
off-site signage advertising homes for sale.
December 2, 2015 — ORC. This item was pulled from the ORC agenda as staff
was still working to address comments from the Attorney's office.
March 2, 2016 — Planning Board meeting. During this meeting the following
comment(s) were made:
• A Board member observed that gas stations are using TV's and interactive menu
screens for advertising and asked if they would be included as part of proposed
sign allotments.
STAFF COMMENT: Such devices would be counted as part of a properties
sign allotment.
• A Board member asked if the proposed amendments would prohibit flashing or
blinking lights as part of a sign?
STAFF COMMENT: Section 6.12.6 Prohibited Signs contains language
prohibiting flashing, blinking, moving, or pulsating signage.
• A Board member asked if real estate signs would still be allowed.
STAFF COMMENT: Real estate signs advertising the sale of property are still
allowed.
• A Board member asked if the County could still regulate billboards.
STAFF COMMENT: We can still regulate the location of billboards (i.e.
limiting them to specific zoning districts)we just cannot regulate their content.
• A Board member asked how special event signs would be handled.
STAFF COMMENT: The allowance of such signage is based on the
underlying zoning of the property. Such signage is prohibited on residential
property.
• The Planning Director asked if farms are exempt from sign regulations?
STAFF COMMENT: As farms are exempt from zoning regulations they would
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53
be exempt from sign regulations.
• A Board member asked if the proposed sign regulations will be enforceable in
public rights-of-ways?
STAFF COMMENT: The County does not have enforcement authority within
rights-of-way maintained by the State.
April 6, 2016 — Review and recommendation. The Board delayed action until the
County Attorney's office had completed its review.
May 4, 2016 — Review and 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.
b. AMENDMENT IMPLICATIONS
The amendment will allow for larger freestanding and wall signs for projects 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.
c. SPECIFIC AMENDMENT LANGUAGE
Please refer to Attachment 3.
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54
Primary Staff Contact:
Michael D. Harvey
Planning
(919) 245-2597
mharvey @orangecountync.gov
6
Attachment 2 55
DRAFT
1 MINUTES
2 PLANNING BOARD
3 MAY 4,2016
4 REGULAR MEETING
5
6 MEMBERS PRESENT: Lydia Wegman-At-Large Chapel Hill Township (Chair); Tony Blake, Bingham Township
7 Representative (Vice-Chair); Paul Guthrie, At-Large Chapel Hill Township; Lisa Stuckey, Chapel Hill Township
8 Representative; Maxecine Mitchell, At-Large Bingham Township; Kim Piracci, At-Large; James Lea, Cedar Grove
9 Township Representative; Patricia Roberts; Cheeks Township Representative;
10
11 MEMBERS ABSENT: Andrea Rohrbacher, At-Large Chapel Hill Township; Buddy Hartley, Little River Township
12 Representative; Laura Nicholson, Eno Township Representative;
13
14 STAFF PRESENT: Craig Benedict, Planning Director; Michael Harvey, Current Planning Supervisor; Ashley Moncado,
15 Special Projects Planner; Meredith Pucci Administrative Assistant; Audrey Spencer-Horsley, Housing, Human Rights
16 and Community Development Director;
17
18 AGENDA ITEM 9: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE(UDO)TEXT AMENDMENT-To make a
19 recommendation to the BOCC on government-initiated amendments to the text of the
20 UDO regarding sign regulations. This item is scheduled for the May 23, 2016 quarterly
21 public hearing.
22
23 Presenter: Michael Harvey, Current Planning Supervisor
24
25 Michael Harvey reviewed the abstract
26
27 Paul Guthrie: Why did the attorneys make the decision to wait?
28
29 Michael Harvey: I think their concern is that there are other court cases pending that could clarify what Reed vs.
30 Gilbert. I also believe they wanted more time to review the proposal to ensure we did not create additional legal
31 hardships for the County. Finally there was a concern the proposal was becoming too complex and might create
32 further compliance issues associated with the Reed decision.
33
34 Lisa Stuckey: Isn't this a nationwide problem?
35
36 Michael Harvey:Yes,we are not the only Planning Board reviewing this.A lot of communities are choosing not to
37 deal with it and just wait to get sued or wait to see if another community adopts an ordinance that survives a court
38 challenge to use as a model.There are several communities that are doing the same thing we are doing, specifically
39 trying to figure out how best to address the implications of the Reed case.
40
41 Lydia N. Wegman: Why are the on premise commercial signs within the agricultural support enterprises being
42 added?
43
44 Michael Harvey: They were supposed to be added when we originally created the zoning district but they were not
45 and we didn't want to deny them signage. So as indicated within the footnote we are correcting a previous omission.
46
47 Tony Blake: Is there any attempt to align the two sign ordinance between the ETJ and rural areas?
48
49 Michael Harvey: No there is not currently a move to do so. Frankly I believe our policy with respect to signage is
50 differently from our municipal planning partners and we should not necessarily be looking for parity.
51
52 Lisa Stuckey: On page 107 and 109 I found the language very confusing.
53
54 Michael Harvey: This is language that has been approved by the county attorney's office.
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DRAFT
55
56 Michael Harvey: If you have any further questions outside of the meeting tonight I am happy to communicate further
57 with you about this item.
58
59 Paul Guthrie: What if you regulate the structure or the materials in the structure of the sign?
60
61 Michael Harvey: We could do that and in certain aspects of this ordinance we can still do that.
62
63 Lydia N. Wegman: Will the results of these court cases are going to address content?
64
65 Michael Harvey: Possibly which is why we are waiting on revising the ordinance.
66
67
68 MOTION by Maxecine Mitchell to recommend approval to the BOCC on the statement of consistency and the
69 proposed amendment package. Seconded by Tony Blake.
70 VOTE: UNANIMOUS
71
2
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Attachment 3
STATEMENT OF CONSISTENCY
OF A PROPOSED UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT
WITH THE ADOPTED ORANGE COUNTY 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Orange County has initiated an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) to modify existing sign regulations.
The Planning Board finds:
a. The requirements of Section 2.8 of the UDO have been deemed complete; and,
b. Pursuant to Sections 1.1.5, and 1.1.7 of the UDO and to Section 153A-341 of the
North Carolina General Statutes, the Board finds sufficient documentation within
the record denoting that the amendment is consistent with the adopted 2030
Comprehensive Plan.
1. The amendment is consistent with applicable plans because it supports the
following 2030 Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives:
Land Use Goal 6: A land use planning process that is transparent, fair,
open, efficient, and responsive.
c. The amendment is reasonable and in the public interest because it:
1. Clarifies regulations governing the use of electronic displays on signage.
2. Provides additional sign area for non-residential projects on larger parcels.
3. Eliminates identified contradictory sign regulations.
The Planning Board of Orange County hereby recommends that the Board of County
Commissioners consider adoption of the proposed UDO text amendment.
Lydia N. Wegman, hair Date
58
Attachment 4
STATEMENT OF CONSISTENCY
OF A PROPOSED UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT
WITH THE ADOPTED ORANGE COUNTY 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Orange County has initiated an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) to modify existing sign regulations.
The Board of County Commissioners finds:
a. The requirements of Section 2.8 of the UDO have been deemed complete; and,
b. Pursuant to Sections 1.1.5, and 1.1.7 of the UDO and to Section 153A-341 of the
North Carolina General Statutes, the Board finds sufficient documentation within
the record denoting that the amendment is consistent with the adopted 2030
Comprehensive Plan.
1. The amendment is consistent with applicable plans because it supports the
following 2030 Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives:
Land Use Goal 6: A land use planning process that is transparent, fair,
open, efficient, and responsive.
c. The amendment is reasonable and in the public interest because it:
1. Clarifies regulations governing the use of electronic displays on signage.
2. Provides additional sign area for non-residential projects on larger parcels.
3. Eliminates identified contradictory sign regulations.
The Board of County Commissioners hereby adopts this Statement of Consistency and
findings expressed herein.
Earl McKee, Chair Date
59
Attachment 5
Ordinance #
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE OF ORANGE COUNTY
Whereas, Orange County has initiated amendments to its Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) to modify existing regulations governing signage.
Whereas, staff as determined the amendments are necessary to address existing
inconsistent language within the UDO, establish definitive standards associated with what
constitutes electronic scrolling messages, and expand opportunities within specific non-
residential zoning districts for additional sign area based on the size and road frontage of a
parcel of property, and
Whereas, the requirements of Section 2.8 of the Unified Development Ordinance have
been deemed complete, and
Whereas, the Orange County Planning Board has recommended approval of the proposed
text amendments, and
Whereas, the County has held the required public hearing and has found the proposed
text amendments are consistent with the goals and policies of the adopted Comprehensive
Plan.
Be it ordained by the Board of Commissioners of Orange County that the Unified
Development Ordinance of Orange County is hereby amended as depicted in the attached
pages.
Be it further ordained that this ordinance be placed in the book of published ordinances
and that this ordinance is effective upon its adoption.
Upon motion of Commissioner , seconded by Commissioner
, the foregoing ordinance was adopted this day of
, 2016.
I, Donna S. Baker, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners for Orange County, DO HEREBY
CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of so much of the proceedings of said Board at a
meeting held on , 2016 as relates in any way to the adoption of the
foregoing and that said proceedings are recorded in the minutes of the said Board.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said County, this day of , 2016.
60
SEAL
Clerk to the Board of Commissioners
61
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE AMENDMENT PACKET NOTES:
The following packet details the proposed text amendment regarding the
establishment and permitting of signage, specifically impacting Section(s) 5.5.4, 5.5.6,
6.12.1, 6.12.3, and 6.12.6.
As the number of affected pages/sections of the existing UDO are being modified
with this proposal staff has divided the proposed amendments into the following color
coded classifications:
• Red Underlined Text: Denotes new, proposed text, that staff is
recommending be added to the UDO
• Red Strikethrough Text: Denotes existing text that staff is proposing to
delete
Staff has included footnotes within the amendment package to provide additional
information/rationale concerning the proposed amendments to aid in your review.
Only those pages of the UDO impacted by the proposed modification(s) have been
included within this packet. Some text on the following pages has a large "X" through it
to denote that these sections are not part of the amendments under consideration. The
text is shown only because in the full UDO it is on the same page as text proposed for
amendment or footnotes from previous sections `spill over' onto the included page. Text
with a large "X" is not proposed for deletion.
Please note that the page numbers in this amendment packet may or may not
necessarily correspond to the page numbers in the adopted UDO because adding
text may shift all of the text/sections downward.
Users are reminded that these excerpts are part of a much larger document (the UDO)
that regulates land use and development in Orange County. The full UDO is available
online at: http://orangecountync.gov/planning/Ordinances.asp.
Article 5: U
Section 5.5: Standards for Residential Uses
f. An existing accessory structure which is larger t the
permitted size referenced in Section 5.5.3.A e)(iii)a
may be used for the home occupation pr., ded that no
more than the permitted amount of se..re feet is used
for the home occupation and the .--a is physically
separated by walls or other b. iers. In order to qualify
as an existing accessory cture for the purpose of
conducting a home oc' pation, the structure must have
been constructed . meet building code requirements
applicable to . sidential accessory structure, and must
have been existence for at least 36 months.
(iv) Use • Outdo Storage Space
a. d p e 500 square feet of outdoor storage area may be
permit :e in conjunction with major home occupations
provided t' -t it is:
Clearly e-fined on the site plan and on the
ground.
ii. Setback standar.- or outdoor storage space
shall be determined v. the approved Special
Entire section Use Permit and in no cas: be less than 40 feet
included for from all property lines; and
reference purposes iii. Totally screened from the view fro - the road
only and from adjacent property in the sam- anner
required for accessory buildings.
5.5.4 obile Home Parks
(A) Standards for MHP-CZ
(1) Permitted Uses and Structures
In addition to Mobile Homes, as defined by this Ordinance, the following
accessory structures and uses shall be permitted:
(a) Caretaker's or manager's home or office.
(b) Service buildings and areas necessary to provide washing and drying
machines for domestic laundry, sanitation, rest rooms, storage, vending
machines, and other similar services provided by the facility for the use
and convenience of the mobile home park tenants.
(c) Recreation buildings/facilities and areas serving only the mobile home
park in which they are located.
(d) Customary accessory buildings and facilities necessary for operation of
the mobile home park in which they are located.
(e) Storage buildings for individual mobile home spaces and intended for the
exclusive use of the occupants of the mobile home space.
(f) Fenced, communal storage areas provided by the park operator for
boats, campers, and other accessory vehicles belonging to park
residents.
(g) Sales of mobile homes already located on approved and established
mobile home stand spaces.
(2) Mobile Home Stand Space Requirements
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 5-40
Article 5: Um
Section 5.5: Standards for Residential Uses
(a) A mobile home park shall be divided into mobile home spaces, each
having an area of at least 5,000 square feet and a minimum width of at
least 50 feet. However, the Orange County Health Department may
increase the minimum area requirements for the park and/or individual
stand spaces where necessary to be consistent with groundwater
resources and/or the limitations of providing sewage disposal systems
for the proposed mobile home park.
(b) Only one mobile home and its customary accessory buildings may be
erected on any mobile home stand space at one time.
(3) Mobile Home Stand Requirements
Each mobile home must be placed on a permanent stand in accordance with the
following specifications:
(a) The location of each mobile home stand must be at an elevation,
distance and angle in relation to the adjacent access drive or street such
that placement and removal of the mobile home is practical by means of
customary moving equipment.
(b) The surface of each mobile home stand and the area around it shall be
graded where necessary to provide proper drainage and prevent the
accumulation of water.
(c) Each mobile home stand shall have a solid base surface consisting of at
least three inches of compacted fill dirt, crusher run or Chapel Hill gravel,
or paved slab, and it shall comply with those standards specified in the
State of North Carolina Regulations for Mobile Homes and Modular
Housing. Prior to installation of the base surface, all top soil shall be
removed from the area to be occupied by the mobile home stand.
(4) Separation Requirements
The following separation requirements shall pertain to every mobile home, single
or double wide, within a mobile home park.
(a) Each mobile home shall be located at least 20 feet from another mobile
home and/or building within the mobile home park, external to the
individual mobile home stand space. For purposes of determining
separation requirements, all attached structures, including storage
buildings, carports and covered porches, will be considered part of a
mobile home.
(b) Each mobile home shall be located at least 22 feet from the right of way
line or edge of pavement of an access drive or street providing access to
the space on which the mobile home is located, whichever is greater.
(c) A detached accessory structure located within an individual mobile home
stand space and intended for the use of the occupants of the space shall
be located at least five feet from any mobile home or other building.
(5) Installation of Individual Mobile Homes
(a) Each mobile home shall be set up and installed in accordance with
standards specified in the State of North Carolina Regulations for Mobile
Homes and Modular Housing.
(b) The owner/operator of a mobile home park shall designate a uniform
type of solid foundation enclosure or skirting fully enclosing the crawl
space beneath each mobile home in the mobile home park. Foundation
enclosures or skirting must be installed in accordance with applicable
standards of the North Carolina State Building Code and, in any event,
within 90 days of placement of a mobile home on a mobile home space.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 5-41
Article 5: U
Section 5.5: Standards for Residential Uses
(c) Access shall be provided to all entrances of a mobile home by way of
steps (including handrails) installed in accordance with the standards of
the North Carolina State Building Code. Where the residents of a mobile
home choose to install decks adjacent to entrances, the mobile home will
be required to have steps and handrails which meet the standards of the
North Carolina State Building Code until the decks are completed.
(6) Vehicular Access
(a) Each mobile home space shall abut an improved access drive or street
approved by the County.
(b) No mobile home space shall have direct vehicular access to a street or
thoroughfare other than those located within the mobile home park.
(c) The street layout within the mobile home park should be appropriately
related to the topography, locations of abutting land uses, drainage
patterns, street function and other natural features of the site.
(d) The planned layout of streets should minimize overall length of streets
and provide for the safe, continuous flow of traffic within the mobile home
park.
(e) All streets within a mobile home park shall be located within a 40 foot
right of way
(f) The travelway for all streets shall be at least 18 feet in width and must
comply with the drainage standards established in this Ordinance.
(g) All streets shall be constructed with paved, all-weather surfaces
consisting of four inches of base material (crusher run)and 1 '/ inches of
1 2 asphalt or tar and gravel surface treatment consisting of a minimum
of six inches of base material (crusher run) covered with alternating
layers of tar and pea sized gravel.
(h) Every street within a mobile home park shall have a maintained six foot
wide shoulder running parallel and adjacent to each side of the paved
street surface. The shoulder section may be used for walkways,
driveways, grass or low growing vegetative ground cover or utility rights
of way.
(i) The maximum length of a cul-de-sac shall be 800 feet. Cul de sacs shall
have a paved turnaround radius of 45 feet with a right of way radius of 55
feet.
(i) No street shall intersect another street at an angle less than 60 degrees.
(k) The turning radius at street intersections shall not be less than 30 feet.
(I) Offset intersections are to be avoided, but where permitted, they shall be
separated by a minimum distance of 200 feet between street center
lines.
(m) Where streets serving a mobile home park intersect with a State
maintained street, the intersection design shall conform to the standards
of the North Carolina Department of Transportation specified in
Subdivision Roads Minimum Construction Standards.
(n) Required off street parking spaces must be surfaced with at least four
inches of compacted crushed stone or an all weather paved surface.
(7) Signs
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 5-42
Article 5: U
Section 5.5: Standards for Residential Uses
(a) There shall be no more than ono doublo facod sign por park ontranco
in area with the top of such sign no higher than ten feet above ground
level. In addition to the name of the mobile home park, such signs shall
(b)(a) Any sign erected on-site shall comply with the standards established in
Section 6.12 of this Ordinance.
(c)(b) Traffic control signs (stop, yield, speed limit, children playing signs, etc.)
meeting the standards of the Uniform Traffic Control Manual shall be
placed throughout the mobile home park where necessary. Cul-de-sacs
shall have `Dead End' street signs erected at the entrance to such
streets.
(8) Street Names, Signs & Unit Numbering
(a) All street names shall be approved by the Orange County Planning
Department and street signs shall be constructed to Orange County
standards. All street signs must be installed outside the right-of-way at
all intersections.
(b) Each applicant must submit to the Planning Department for approval a
mobile home space numbering/location system for the park, based on
the equal interval house numbering system employed by Orange County.
Upon approval of the mobile home park, the applicant shall submit an
approved copy of the space numbering/location system to the
emergency services/fire protection agency responsible for providing such
services to the Mobile Home Park.
(c) Each mobile home stand space shall have a permanent site number sign
consistent with the following:
(i) The site number sign shall be composed of reflective materials
or contrasting colors,
(ii) The number on the sign shall be at least six inches or greater in
height,
(iii) The sign shall be affixed to the mobile home when the unit is
placed on the stand space, at a point six feet or more above
ground level, and
(iv) The number on the sign shall match that number assigned to the
space on the approved space numbering/location system plan.
(9) Grounds and Buildings
(a) The grounds of a mobile home park shall be maintained free of litter,
debris and trash, including but not limited to abandoned appliances,
automobiles, building materials or similar materials.
(b) Grounds, buildings and storage areas within the mobile home park shall
be maintained to prevent the growth of ragweed, poison ivy, poison oak
and other noxious weeds.
(10) Mail Facilities
1 There are already regulations governing the erection of mobile home park identification signs in Section 6.12.11.
The language in subsection (a) is superfluous and is being eliminated.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 5-43
Article 5: Um
Section 5.6: Standards for Commercial Uses
(2) Outdoor storage of bulk goods shall be located to the rear or side of the pr.- ary
building and screened on three sides by an eight foot high opaque wal dr fence.
Outdoor storage for bulk goods shall be limited to 1,500 square f-- per acre of
the zoning lot.
5.6.4 Junkyards
(A) Standards for • ass A Special Use Permit
(1) Submittal - = •uirements—
In addition to the • ormation required . Section 2.7, the following information
shall be supplied as d-rt of the ap• 'cation for approval of this use:
(a) Detailed plans and •-cifications for the site screening proposed.
(b) Description oft •e and • mber of motorized machines to be employed
upon site.
(c) Indica - on the site plan the ext-,t of area to be used for the storage of
ju -d or wrecked motor vehicles
(2) Stan. :rds for Evaluation -
The site shall be screened from adjacent prop_ ty by a minimum of an
eight foot high solid fence or equal, uninterrupted : cept for required
vehicle access points.
(b) No materials shall be stored closer than 50 feet to the pub right of way
or 30 feet to the property lines.
(c) Site is of adequate size to protect adjacent properties from advers-
effects of the junkyard.
5.6.5 Kennels (Class II)
(A) Standards for Class B Special Use Permit
(1) Submittal Requirements—
In addition to the information required by Section 2.7, the following information
shall be supplied as part of the application for approval of this use:
(a) Plans for all kennels, exercise yards, dog runs, pens and related
improvements, including signage.
(b) Site plan showing the improvements listed in a) above, other structures
on the same lot, and structures on adjacent property.
(2) Standards of Evaluation—
(a) The site is of adequate size to protect adjacent properties from adverse
effects of the kennel.
(b) No part of any building, structure, dog run, pen, or exercise yard in which
animals are housed or exercised shall be closer than 150 feet from a
property line, except property occupied by the owner/operator of the
kennel.
(i) The 150 foot setback established by this section shall not apply if
all portions of the facility, in which animals are housed, are
wholly enclosed within a building.
(ii) For Class II Kennels developed within the EDE-2 zoning district,
this setback shall not apply to dog training activities where each
dog is under the immediate control of its trainer, owner, or other
responsible individual.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 5-49
Article 5: Utyp
Section 5.6: Standards for Commercial Uses
(iii) For Class II Kennels developed within the EDE-2 zoning district,
all buildings, structures, dog runs, pens, or exercise yards in
which animals are housed or exercised shall observe the
principal setbacks established within Section 3.7 of the UDO in
those instances where the property abuts other EDE-2 zoned
property and US Highway 70.
(c) Any kennel, including primary enclosures or runs, which is not wholly
enclosed within a building shall be enclosed by a security fence at least
six feet in height.
(d) The site plan shows parking, access areas and screening devices for all
buildings and animal boarding facilities existing or proposed for the
property.
(e) The site plan shall be reviewed by the Orange County Animal Services
Department, and found in conformance with the Animal Control
Ordinance.
(f) Building plans for all kennel facilities shall be reviewed and approved by
the Orange County Animal Services Department prior to issuance of any
building permits.
(g) A sign clearly visible from the ground shall be posted at the main
contacted at any hour of the day or night. The sign All proposed
signage shall comply with dimensional requirements as set forth within
this OrdinancoSection 6.12.2
(h) A Class II Kennel Permit shall be obtained from Orange County Animal
Services within the first 30 days of occupancy. Failure to obtain and
maintain a valid Class II Kennel Permit or other related permits which
may be required by the USDA or Wildlife Resources Commission will
result in revocation of the Special Use Permit.
.•.6 Rural Guest Establishment: Bed & Breakfast
General Standards
1) Submittal Requirements
(a) A site plan, prepared in accordance with the requi - ents of Section 2.5,
containing the following:(Per Section.2.5.2 pr. -ssional design and
ertification is not required for Rural Gue stablishments with three
gu- rooms or less—bed & breakfa -.
(i) L...tion, width, and .e of all internal vehicular and pedestrian
circu . '.n, and .. ing requirements.
(ii) Location .•: ..mensions of all on site signage.
(iii) Bo - •aries of the s
(iv) Location of well and septic stem.
(b) •escription of the proposed use(s) of the - and the buildings thereon,
including the following:
(i) Amount of area allocated to each use.
(ii) Number of full and part time employees.
(iii) Number of clients and/or occupants expected to use the fa .
2 Again staff is eliminating contradictory language establish sign regulations inconsistent with Section 6.12.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 5-50
Article 6: Development Standa518
Section 6.12: Signs
It is the intent of this section to require minimum light levels during established • siness
hours or in those instances where members of the general public will be on- e to ensure
public safety.
(B) P_•estrian walkways and plazas must be lighted and fixtures mount at a lower height
for urity and to create an inviting pedestrian environment.
(C) Accent lie ting must also be provided to illuminate such key Is-ations as building and
driveway e ies, and activity areas.
(D) Lighting for the . rpose of illuminating landmarks and . ique features of the site is also
encouraged.
(E) All light fixtures are to I- concealed source fixt es except for pedestrian-oriented accent
lights.
(F) Security lighting fixtures or floe slights .st not project over the fascia or roof line of the
building(s).
(G) Parking area and driveway fixtur- s• •uld be mounted at or below a maximum height of
25 feet above the surface oft►- parking -rea or driveway.
(H) The design of light fixtur-: and structural s sorts must be compatible with the
architecture of the pri • pal building(s) and ide •fication signs.
(I) Where building fa•-s are illuminated, lighting fixtur- must be integrated within the
architectural d- ign of the buildings.
(J) Ground-m• nted lighting fixtures must be weather-proof a'• vandal resistant.
(K) Hillsb%rough EDD
I .ddition to the standards established above, the following stand. ds shall apply within
e Hillsborough EDD:
(1) Lighting must be high efficiency lighting systems and lighting leve must be
reduced during non-use hours to promote energy conservation.
(2) 12:1 minimum/maximum glare ratio.
(3) Maximum footcandles = 80
SECTION 6.12: SIGNS
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 their need for cign�
within the business community.3
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 official Zoning Atlas4 weather whether 5a
sign is directly visible from a street right-of-way or not.
'This language was a 'holdover'from the old zoning ordinance. Signs are allowed throughout the County for
various reasons having nothing to do with the 'business community'. The language is unnecessary and is being
recommended for deletion.
4 The 'current tax roll' has nothing to do with designating the zoning of a parcel of property. Language is being
modified to identify the correct document containing same.
5 Correcting a spelling error.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-79
Article 6: Development Standa�
Section 6.12: Signs
6.12.2 Outdo. dvertising
The provisions o A rticle establish standards and review criteria = . ing to the location,
erection, maintenance, is- ., setbacks, and use of signs. •. includes regulations pertaining
to outdoor advertising (i.e. Billb.: •s .
The regulation and permitting of outdoor a. sing is also subject to State requirements,
including the State Outdoor Advertisi a s ontrol A , .nd Federal requirements. In cases where
there is a conflict between Co • regulations and State : ederal regulations, relating to the
location, erection, mai - .nce, lighting, setbacks and use of o. •.or advertising signage, the
corresponding - or Federal law shall take precedent.
Inca here there is no applicable State/Federal standard, then existing Cou egulations
- all be enforced.
6.12.3 General Requirements
(A) No sign of any type nor any part thereof shall be erected, painted, posted, reposted,
placed, replaced, or hung in any zoning district except in compliance with these
regulations.
(B) No person shall erect or maintain a sign, and no property owner shall allow a sign to be
erected or maintained on his property except in conformity with these regulations.
(C) A Zoning Compliance Permit approved in accordance with the provisions of this
Ordinance shall be required prior to erecting a sign, unless otherwise permitted.
(D) A permit shall be required for change of copy of an existing sign, for any sign when the
use of the premises changes, or when an existing sign is altered, however no permit will
be required for change of copy on a changeable message or reader board sign.
(E) In no case shall decorative features or landscaping at the base of a sign obstruct the view
of motorists.
(F) Sign Locations
(1) All signs shall be located outside the sight visibility triangle (see Section 6.2.10).
(2) No sign, including supporting frames or base, shall be located within five feet of a
public right-of-way.
(3) No sign may be attached, affixed, or painted upon any utility poles, governmental
signs, trees, rocks, or other similar natural object within the public right-of-way.
(4) No sign shall be permitted on the side street frontage of a corner lot if the lot is
located 6within 100 feet of a residential district.
G) Illuminated Signs
No illuminated sign shall be so designed or placed that direct or r- ed light or
• are constitutes a hazard or annoyance to motorists or o ..ants of adjoining
prop- .-s.
(2) Signs shall be i .••.nated in accordanc- . the provisions of this Ordinance.
6.12.4 Determination of Sign Area
(A) For the purposes of •.- •rdinance, the area of di • - surface of a sign shall be
computed as ••- ding the entire area visible from any on- feint, within a regular
geom- rom or combination or forms, comprising all of the dis. ; area of the surface
. . including all of the elements within the display area and the sign fra -- including the
lattice work, frame, border molding, lettering and display area incidental to the .:•'s
6 This language was a holdover from the old zoning ordinance and created confusion. The regulation is being
modified accordingly to ensure an enforceable standard.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-80
Article 6: Development Standard
Section 6.12: Signs
(2) A Zoning Compliance Permit shall not be required to allow for the pl.:-ment of a
political sign on private property.
( There shall be no limit to the number of political signs th. an be placed on
ivate property so long as the placement of these s': s complies with the
prop. ions of this Ordinance and the signs do n. reate a public safety hazard.
(4) Within res -ntial zoning districts, politic. igns shall not exceed nine square feet
in area or four z-t in height.
(5) Within non-residentia -•nin. : stricts, political signs shall not exceed the
maximum allowable sig permitted for freestanding signs.
(6) Political signs sh- only be erecter •0 days prior to the established date of a
general ele ..n, school board electio , eferendum, special election, primary, or
other si.- ar political activity.
(7) 4 itical signs shall be removed within 21 days a'- an election.
Political signs shall be allowed within rights-of-way of the - ate highway system
only in accordance with State law.
(9) Political signs shall not be allowed on telephone poles, utility poles, :-s, other
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',
'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 except for signs showing
time of day and temperature that are part of an approved sign advertising a permitted
business activity on a parcel of property;
(D) Signs with electronic moveable copy, scrolling messages or other similar electronic
displays designed to change display more than once an hour or a maximum of 8 times in
a 24 hour period;
(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;
(I) Portable signs, unless approved for a special event in accordance with Section
6.12.11(D);
'Staff is proposing a universal standard for what constitutes electronic changeable copy to ensure proper
enforcement.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-82
Article 6: Development Standard
Section 6.12: Signs
Signs shall not be placed within any public street righ -• -y.
(3) Signs _._ •e removed after propert •-- seen transferred.
(I) Landmark Signs
Signs shall b- _ - ed only after the historical s • -nce of the particular site has been
ve -nd that proposed location of the sign has been a•. : -• by the Orange County
Planning Department and all other related agencies (i.e. NC Departm-
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:
(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, El, I-1, 1-2, 1-3, AS, MPD-CZ, MHP-
CZ, ASE-CZ, REDA-CZ-1,8 and all of the Economic Development zoning
districts.
(3) All on-premise commercial signs shall be setback ten feet from the front, side,
and rear property lines or the edge of any existing or projected street right-of-way
line whichever is greater. 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.
(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
(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:
8 Staff is correcting for previous omissions by including Agricultural Support Enterprises Conditional Zoning(ASE-
CZ)and the NC Highway 57 Speedway Area Rural Economic Development Area Conditional Zoning(REDA-CZ-1) in
the list of allowable signage.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-86
Article 6: Development Standard
Section 6.12: Signs
,a, Single or double-faced signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in area, per
sign face. For parcels zoned CC-3, GC-4, 01, I-1, 1-3, AS, EDB-2, EDE-
2, EDH-4, EDH-5, and MPD-CZ signage shall not exceed 72 square feet
in area for parcels that:
(i) Are larger than 60,000 square feet in area, and
(a)(ii) Have more than 300 linear frontage along a NC Department of
Transportation (NC DOT) maintained roadway.
(b) Three-dimensional signs shall not exceed a maximum volume . 54
cubic feet with no dimension exceeding six feet.
Fi• re 6.12.12.A.6: Three-Dimensional Sign Allowable Volume
H
•
11. moniii,..waseememenummummil
NOTE: L x W x H may not exceed 54 cubi► eet wi q no dimension exceeding 6 feet.
(7) An on-premise com -rcial sign m. contain a changeable copy sign as defined
in this Ordinance. ,'owever, the tota ign area, including the area of changeable
copy, shall not e eed the maximum a swable area established in Section
6.12.12(A)(6)(. above.
(8) No on-prem. e commercial sign shall be ori- ted is such a manner as to be
directly vi ..le from a major transportation cor ..or as established in this
Ordinance.
(B) Off-Premise ommercial Signs
(1) T -se signs shall comply with all state and county buil..ng codes and the
"ational Electric Code. Clearance of signs is required fr. high voltage power
lines and signs shall be located in such a way that they wil aintain horizontal
and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors in .ccordance with
the National Electric Code specifications, provided that no sign hall be installed
closer than ten feet horizontally or vertically from any conductor o sublic utility
guy wire.
(2) Off-premise commercial signs (billboards) shall be permitted within the C-4,
EC-5, 1-1, and 1-2 zoning districts.
(3) No electric tap outs allowing for an independent light source to receive pow-
shall be allowed.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-87
Article 6: Development Standa7d3
Section 6.12: Signs
(4) Off-premise commercial signs shall be considered the principal use of p •perty.
There shall be no additional principal uses allowed on the same par . Off-
premise commercial signs shall not be permitted as accessory us .
( No off-premise commercial sign shall be located closer than 40 feet to the right-
of-way of major thoroughfares (i.e. US 70, NC 86, NC 40, . d NC 57) and 600
-et to the right-of-way for all other thoroughfares and eets.
(6) The -ight of an off-premise commercial sign shal of exceed 25 feet from the
grade o e right-of-way or surface grade bene the sign, whichever is less.
The cleara .e of an off-premise sign shall n. be less than eight feet from the
grade of the rig it-of-way or surface grad- •eneath the sign, whichever is less.
(7) Off-premise comm- ial signs shall .- limited to 480 square feet of sign area.
(8) In no case shall an off-p : ise .mmercial sign be located closer than 1,000 feet
to an existing off-premise c•,. ercial sign.
(9) Off-premise commercial .•gns a •rohibited within the Major Transportation
Corridor(MTC) overt. district.
(10) No person may, f► the purpose of incre. •ng or enhancing the visibility of any
off-premises cc mercial sign, damage, trim, •estroy, or remove any trees,
shrubs, or • er vegetation in the following loca 'ens:
(a) ithin the right-of-way of any public street o oad, unless the work is
done pursuant to the express written authoriza of the North Carolina
Department of Transportation;
(b) On property that is not under the ownership or control o e person
responsible for such work, unless the work is done pursua to 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 perms
issued in accordance with this Ordinance.
(C) 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, El, I-1, 1-2, 1-3, AS, MPD-CZ ASE-CZ, REDA-CZ-1 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.
(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:
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-88
Article 6: Development Standar
Section 6.12: Signs
One square foot of sign area for every foot of building length facing a public
right-of-way, not to exceed 32 square feet. For parcels zoned CC-3, GC-4, 01, I-
2, 1-3, AS, EDB-2, EDE-2, EDH-4, EDH-5, and MPD-CZ signage shall not exceed
64 square feet in area for parcels that:
(a) Are larger than 60,000 square feet in area, and
(b) Contain a structure with more than 100 linear feet of building length
facing a public right-of-way, and
(c) Have more than 300 feet of linear frontage along a NC Department of
Transportation (NC DOT) maintained roadway.
(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.
(D) Projecting Signs
(1) Projecting signs shall be mounted on a building.
(2) Projecting signs may be internally illuminated and shall comply with all applicable
state and county building codes and the National Electric Code.
(3) Projecting signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC-1, NC-
2, CC-3, GC-4, EC-5, 01, El, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, AS, MPD-CZ, ASE-CZ, REDA-CZ-1 and
all of the Economic Development zoning districts.
(4) Projecting signs shall adhere to the minimum setback requirements established
for all structures within the zoning district in which it is located.
(5) Only one projecting signs shall be permitted per building facade even in cases of
a building located on a corner lot.
(6) The allowable sign area shall be determined as follows:
(a) One square foot of sign area for every foot of building length, facing a
public right-of-way, not to exceed 32 square feet in area.
(7) Projecting signs shall clear sidewalks and pedestrian paths by a height of at least
ten feet above finished grade.
(8) Projecting signs shall not extend above the soffit, parapet, or eave line of the
building to which it is attached.
(9) Projecting signs shall not be located at the corner of a building except at right
angles to the building façade.
(E) Window Signs
(1) Window signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC-1, NC-2,
CC-3, GC-4, EC-5, 01, El, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, AS, MPD-CZ, ASE-CZ, REDA-CZ-1 and
all of the Economic Development zoning districts.
(2) Window signs shall be limited to a maximum of 30% of the total window area
where the sign is to be located.
(3) Window signs may be utilized for advertising specials or sales within the
business, or displaying the name and other pertinent business information
associated with the principal use.
(4) Signs may be etched, painted or otherwise attached to be made a permanent
addition to the pane of glass.
(F) Awning Signs
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-89
Article 6: Development Standarp3
Section 6.12: Signs
(1) Awning signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC-1, NC-2,
CC-3, GC-4, EC-5, 01, El, I-1, 1-2, 1-3, AS, MPD-CZ ASE-CZ, REDA-CZ-1 and
all of the Economic Development zoning districts. See Section 6.12.14(E) for
additional standards for Awning Signs located in Economic Development
Districts.
(2) Awning Signs shall be located above the main entrance to a nonresidential land
use and shall contain the name of the use.
(3) Awning Sign area shall be limited to a maximum of 50% of the total awning area
erected over the entrance of a nonresidential land use. Where an awning sign is
utilized at a multi-use development, the amount of sign area shall be computed
as part of the overall sign area allotted to wall signs, not to exceed 50% of the
total awning area.
(G) Drive-Through Menu Signs
(1) Applicants must establish to the satisfaction of the Planning Director that a drive-
through menu sign is considered a customary accessory use to the principal
business on the property and is necessary for the normal operations 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 independent
speaker box, no greater than 12 square feet in area with a height no greater that
four feet.
• 12.13 Sign Standards for Specific Uses
In addition to the requirements contained herein, the following land uses shall adhere to ese
-.ditional standards:
(A) Changeable Copy Signs Utilized by Churches or Public Entities
(1 Shall not exceed 32 square feet in area.
(2) %ulletin boards/reader boards may be internally ilium.-.ted.
(B) Service Sta •ns/Gas Station
(1) Signs ma' .e erected above gas pumps s .sect to the following standards:
(a) No int- al or external illumin. 'on shall be permitted;
(b) Signs shall .- limited to ft r square feet in area; and
(c) Signs must adve = items for sale on the property. Under no
circumstances . - ign advertise a sale, activity, business, or product
not associate ith the . .ncipal use of property.
(2) Signs may be err ted on the canopy ..vering gas pumps subject to the following
standards:
(a) ;:vertising material shall be limited to ademarks, logos, and the name
of the service station or other similar disp- .
Such displays shall be limited to six square fe- of area.
(C) Yar. Sales/Garage
1) Signs shall be erected on the property where the sale is taking p e.
(2) Signs shall be limited to four square feet of area.
(3) No off-site displays shall be permitted.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-90
Article 6: Development Standar
Section 6.12: Signs
(4) Signs shall be removed no later than sunset of the day the event occurs.
(D) Institutional Uses and Private Parks Located within Residential Zoning Distri• s
(1) One ground and one wall sign shall be permitted;
(2) Maximum sign area shall be 32 square feet per sign face; and
(3) No ground sign shall exceed six feet in height.
(E) ome Occupations
(1 The Home Occupation shall have a valid Zoning Compliance '•ermit issued by
Orange County;
(2) There shall only be one sign limited to eight square feet it area and four feet in
-ight;
(3) Sue sign shall not be illuminated by any means;
(4) Sign all not be located within any public street r.4ht-of-way, sight visibility
triangle, easement, vehicular area or other simil. area; and
(5) The sign -ssage shall be limited to the busi►ess name and telephone number.
(F) Parks, Public and N•n-profit; Recreational Faci - ies, Non-Profit; Recreational
Facilities, Golf Course ; and Recreational Fac- ities, Profit
(1) Purpose and Into t
(a) Unlike signs or non-reside ial development(s), signs for recreational
land uses are tended to serve a different function and purpose. Signs
within these types of Ian. uses are intended to provide essential
information conc- nine.
(i) Rules and r•..ulations governing the operation of the facility;
(ii) Educatio'al in 'rmation identifying unique aspects of the facility,
the property itse or significant environmental features that are
locates on the property; and
(iii) Id- tification of spon°ors or public/private partnerships that are
responsible for the de -lopment, upkeep, and maintenance of
-xisting recreational am- ities.
(b) Whil: some of this information coul. be construed as being advertising
m. -rial, the County views such sign' as identifying those responsible
fe the existence of the facility and allo s for recognition of entities that
ave entered into partnerships with the o•erator of the facility to provide
local residents with recreational opportunit -s.
(2) App icability
e regulations included herein govern the erection of s ens at the following:
(a) Parks, Public and Non-profit,
(b) Recreational Facilities, Non-Profit,
(c) Recreational Facilities, Golf Courses, and
(d) Recreational Facilities, Profit within the County.
(3) Permitted Signs
(a) Freestanding identification signs announcing the name of the fa.lity/land
use are subject to the following standards:
(i) There shall be only one freestanding identification sign per
property,
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-91
Article 6: Development StandarFdg
Section 6.12: Signs
(ii) Freestanding identification signs shall be li .. o 20 square
feet of sign area. In Economic De - :.ment Districts, a
maximum sign area of 32 •..re feet shall be permitted,
(iii) The • a : either a ground or pole sign,
(iv) --standing iden -tion signs shall be set back a minimum of
ten feet from all property i = .nd
(v) Illumination of freestanding identificatio Is shall be permitted
in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinan -,
(b) Wall Signs
(i) Shall either be mounted or painted on a building.
(ii) All wall signs shall be offset a minimum of five feet from the
corner of the building face on which it is mounted.
(iii) Wall signs shall not protrude more that 12 inches from the side of
building on which it is mounted.
(iv) Only one wall sign shall be permitted per building except as
follows:
a. In cases where a building is located on a corner lot, a
second wall sign may be erected on the building wall
facing the second street right-of-way subject to the
requirements of this Ordinance.
b. If a building façade faces athletic fields or other similar
recreational areas on the property, a second wall sign,
up to 32 square feet in area, may be erected facing
these facilities, not to exceed the allowable sign area as
calculated herein,
c. Under no circumstances may more than one wall sign be
located on the same building façade.
(v) The maximum sign area shall be determined as follows:
a. One square foot of wall sign area for every linear foot
of building length along a right-of-way or facing an
athletic field or similar recreational use, not to exceed 32
square feet in area.
(vi) A changeable copy sign can be utilized as a wall sign.
(vii) Wall signs shall not extend above the soffit, parapet, or eave line
of the building to which it is attached.
(viii) The sign may be internally illuminated or have external
illumination installed consistent with the provisions of this
Ordinance.
(c) Informational Signs
(i) Shall be allowed in an effort to provide infor •_ '.n concerning
individual recreational amenities ay.. .. e on the property and
are limited to those signs n- - ary to identify the name of a
sp- recreationa . ity, amenity, or use.
(ii) Signs s•. se larger than 20 square feet in area.
(iii he sign shall contain in • ••ation identifying the recreational
amenity.
(iv) The number of signs shall be directly prop. .• al to the number
of individual recreational amenities present on the -.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-92