HomeMy WebLinkAboutORD-2016-019 Ordinance amending the UDO - 0/1 (Office/Institutional) (UDO) to modify existing regulations governing signage. Ordinance # ORD-2016-019
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 C mmissioner , seconded by Commissioner
the foregoing ordinance was adopted this day of
2016.
I, Donna S. Baker,Cerk to the Board of Commissioners for Orange County, DO HEREBY
CERTIFY that the foregoi 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 procee ings are recorded in the minutes of the said Board.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said County, this day of , 2016.VV * v %L v
S A
ti 52 Clerk to the Board of Commissioners
4
opt¢ �tto
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 Strikethro gh ro.,+: Denotes existing text that staff is proposing to
delete
• Bold Green Underlined Text: Denotes text added to address a concern
from the County Attorney's's office after Planning oard review and
g
recommendation on the proposal.
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 textisections 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.
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_ Denotes new, proposed text, that staff is
recommending be added to the UDO
Red StrikethM gh Tout. Denotes existing text that staff is proposing to
delete
• Bold Green Underlined Text: Denotes text added to address a concern
from the County Attorney's office after Planning Board review and
recommendation on the proposal.
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: Uses 62
Section 5.5: Standards for Residential Uses
f. An existing accessory structure which is larger an the
permitted size referenced in Section 5.5.3. )(e)(iii)a
may be used for the home occupation vided that no
more than the permitted amount of uare feet is used
for the home occupation and th rea is physically
separated by walls or other riers. In order to qualify
as an existing accessory ructure for the purpose of
conducting a home o upation, the structure must have
been constructed meet building code requirements
applicable to esidential accessory structure, and must
have bee . existence for at least 36 months.
(iv) Use o utd r Storage Space
a. p 500 square feet of outdoor storage area may be
permitt in conjunction with major home occupations
provided th it is:
i. Clearly ined on the site plan and on the
ground.
Entire section Setback standar or outdoor storage space
included for shall be determined i the approved Special
Use Permit and in no cas a less than 40 feet
reference purposes from all property lines; and
only Totally screened from the view fro he road
and from adjacent property in the sam anner
required for accessory buildings.
5.5.4 Mobile 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: Uses 63
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: Uses 64
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.
All streets shall be constructed(g) st ucted 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.
Q) 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.
(1) 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, Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance
9 �, P Page 5-42
Article 5: Uses 65
Section 5.5: Standards for Residential Uses
(a) There sh;;11 he nA mere than GRe d-A-u-ble faGed GigR per park entraRG8
aRR961RGiRg th.,z narne Af the rnA,hile heme park, limited te 16 square feet
iR area with the tGP Gf 66IGh SigR RG higher thaR teR feet abGVe greyRd
level. In a-ddit'GR+„the Rame Gf the meb+le heme park, 6 signs shall
i,6_44y the name of the park AvVner.lrngnager and his er her phene
number.1
k0 a) Any sign erected on-site shall comply with the standards established in
Section 6.12 of this Ordinance.
(c LLJ_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: Uses 66
Section 5.6: Standards for Commercial Uses
(2) Outdoor storage of bulk goods shall be located to the:high ar or side of the p . ary
building and screened on three sides by an eight foot opaque wa r fence.
3) Outdoor storage for bulk goods shall be limited to 1,5square f t per acre of
the zoning lot.
5.6.4 Junkyards
(A) Standards fo lass A Special Use Permit
(1) Submittal quirements—
In addition to the * formation require y Section 2.7, the following information
shall be supplied as art of the ap cation for approval of this use:
(a) Detailed plans a s cifications for the site screening proposed.
(b) Description of a an number of motorized machines to be employed
upon site.
(c) Indica on the site plan the a nt 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 pr erty by a minimum of an
eight foot high solid fence or equal, uninterrupte except for required
vehicle access points.
(b) No materials shall be stored closer than 50 feet to the p lic right of way
or 30 feet to the property lines.
(c) Site is of adequate size to protect adjacent properties from adve
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: Uses 67
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 LIDO 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-c pair}
telephone Rumbers where
All proposed
signage shall comply with dimensional requirements as set forth within
this nrd'RaRGeSection 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
Submittal Requirements
a) A site plan, prepared in accordance with the re rements of Section 2.5,
containing the following:(Per Section.2.5.2 ofessional design and
ertification is not required for Rural G st Establishments with three
9
u ooms or less bed &brea ts.)
vehicular and pedestrian
(i) Lo tion, width, a ype of all internal p
circula an arking requirements.
(ii) Locatio nd ' ensions of all on site signage.
(iii) undaries of the si .
(i Location of well and septic s em.
(b Description of the proposed use(s) of the si nd 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 faci
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 Standards 68
Section 6.12: Signs
It is the intent of this section to require minimum light levels during established usiness
hours or in those instances where members of the general public will be on- a to ensure
ublic safety.
(B) Pe strian walkways and plazas must be lighted and fixtures mount at a lower height
for se rity and to create an inviting pedestrian environment.
(C) Accent Iig ing must also be provided to illuminate such key I tions as building and
driveway en i s, and activity areas.
(D) Lighting for the p ose of illuminating landmarks and ique features of the site is also
encouraged.
(E) All light fixtures are to b oncealed source fixt s except for pedestrian-oriented accent
lights.
(F) Security lighting fixtures or floo * hts m t not project over the fascia or roof line of the
building(s).
(G) Parking area and driveway fixtur sh Id be mounted at or below a maximum height of
25 feet above the surface of tl arking a or driveway.
(H) The design of light fixture nd structural sup its must be compatible with the
architecture of the prin ' al building(s)and ident ' ation signs.
(1) Where building fac are illuminated, lighting fixtures ust be integrated within the
architectural de i n of the buildings.
(J) Ground-mo ted lighting fixtures must be weather-proof an vandal resistant.
(K) Hillsbo ugh EDD
In dition to the standards established above, the following standar shall apply within
Hillsborough EDD:
(1) Lighting must be high efficiency lighting systems and lighting levels ust be
reduced during non-use hours to promote energy conservation.
(2) 12:1 minimum/maximum glare ratio.
(3) Maximum footcandles = 80
s
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 t#�-,their need feF signs
within the 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 G errent tax mil_official Zoning Atlas4 eather_whether 5a
sign is directly visible from a street right-of-way or not.
s 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 Standards 69
Section 6.12'. Signs
6.1 utdoor Advertising
The prov ' s of this Article establish standards and review criteria rela ' o the location,
erection, mainte e, lighting, setbacks, and use of signs. TN5.iRdudes regulations pertaining
to outdoor advertising i. . illboards).
The regulation and permitting of ou r adv ' ing is also subject to State requirements,
including the State Outdoor Advertisi o Act, and Federal requirements. In cases where
there is a conflict between C regulations an a or Federal regulations, relating to the
location, erection, m ance, lighting, setbacks and us outdoor advertising signage, the
correspondin e or Federal law shall take precedent.
I es where there is no applicable State/Federal standard, then existing t regulations
shall 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) For parcels zoned non-residential, no Ne sign shall be permitted en theme
6within 100 feet of a residential
district.
(G inated Signs
(1) No it u ' sign shall be so designed or place erect or reflected light or
glare constitutes a or annoyan otorists or occupants of adjoining
properties.
(2) Signs shall minated in accordance with the ons of this Ordinance.
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. Bold Green Underlined language was added after the
printing/distribution of the public hearing packet to address a concern from the Attorney's office,specifically
recommended language could be construed as prohibiting signage within residential zoning districts altogether
impacting various permitted land uses utilizing same(i.e.church,school, park,etc.). Staff agreed this was not the
intent and revised the proposal to address the concern accordingly.
Orange County,North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-80
Article 6: Development Standards 70
Section 6.12: Signs
L) Private drive signs, one per drive entrance, not exceeding two square feet in area ith
the message content limited to the words"Private Drive"and the address of a
residences utilizing the private roadway;
(M) curity and warning signs posted on private property warning the pub' against
tres ssing, or similar messages, provided that any such sign doe of exceed two
square et in area; and
(N) Political Sig in accordance with the following standards:
(1) Political ' ns are allowed in all zoning distric .
(2) A Zoning Co Hance Permit shall not b equired to allow for the placement of a
political sign on p 'vate property.
(3) There shall be no limi the nu er of political signs that can be placed on
private property so long t placement of these signs complies with the
provisions of this Ordinan d the signs do not create a public safety hazard.
(4) Within residential zo ' g districts, olitical signs shall not exceed nine square feet
in area or four fe in height.
(5) Within non-r idential zoning districts, po' 'cal signs shall not exceed the
maximu Ilowable sign area permitted for estanding signs.
(6) Poli ' al signs shall only be erected 90 days prior the established date of a
neral election, school board election, referendum, ecial election, primary, or
other similar political activity.
Political signs shall be removed within 21 days after an elect
(8) Political signs shall be allowed within rights-of-way of the State hi way system
only in accordance with State law.
(9) Political signs shall not be allowed on telephone poles, utility poles, trees, ther
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';
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 Standards 71
Section 6.12: Signs
(3) May contain corporate logos or other similar graphical displays so Ion hey
provide some necessary information to patrons (i.e. entrance and i locations,
one-way entrance ways, drive through entranceways,ATM 1 tion, etc.).
(4) A imum of three directional/informational signs be displayed on a non-
residenti arcel of property.
(H) Temporary Real Estate ' ns, in excess of r square feet in area
(1) One sign shall be permit uilding site, not to exceed 24 square feet in
area.
(2) Signs shall not b aced within any pu ' street right-of-way.
(3) Signs m e removed after property has been nsferred.
(1) Landm igns
ns shall be erected only after the historical significance of the particu it has been
verified and that proposed location of the sign has been approved by the Oran County
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:
(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, OI, El, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, AS, MPD-CZ, MHP-
CZ ASE-CZ REDA-CZ-1,$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.
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 Standards 72
Section 6.12: Signs
(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:
(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, 1-1, 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
i,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 of 54
cubic feet with no dimension exceeding six feet.
Figure 6.12.12.A.6: Three-Dimensional Sign Allowable Volume
a"
r
H j
NOTE: L x W x H may not exce 54 cubic feet with no di nsion exceeding 6 feet.
/Off-Premise -pre ise commercial sign may conta a changeable copy sign as defined
0 inance. However, the total sign are including the area of changeable
all not exceed the maximum allowable a established in Section
2(A)(6)(a) above.
-premise commercial sign shall be oriented is su a manner as to be
ly visible from a major transportation corridor as est lished in this
nce.
ommercial Signs
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-87
Article 6: Development Standards 73
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 p er
lines and signs shall be located in such a way that they will maintain hor' ontal
and vertical clearance of all overhead electrical conductors in accord ce with
the National Electric Code specifications, provided that no sign shal a installed
closer than ten feet horizontally or vertically from any conductor o public utility
guy wire.
(2) Off-premise commercial signs (billboards) shall be permitte ithin the GC-4,
C-5, 1-1, and 1-2 zoning districts.
(3) No lectric tap outs allowing for an independent light s urce to receive power
shall allowed.
(4) Off-prem e commercial signs shall be consider e the principal use of property.
There shal a no additional principal uses allo ed on the same parcel. Off-
premise com rcial signs shall not be perm ed as accessory uses.
(5) No off-premise c mercial sign shall be cated closer than 200 feet to the right-
of-way of major tho ughfares (i.e. US 0, NC 86, NC 40, and NC 57) and 600
feet to the right-of-wa or all other tV. roughfares and streets.
(6) The height of an off-prem a co ercial sign shall not exceed 25 feet from the
grade of the right-of-way or ce grade beneath the sign, whichever is less.
The clearance of an off-pre ' sign shall not be less than eight feet from the
grade of the right-of-way o surfs a grade beneath the sign, whichever is less.
(7) Off-premise commerci signs shall limited to 480 square feet of sign area.
(8) In no case shall an -premise commer 'al sign be located closer than 1,000 feet
to an existing off- emise commercial sign.
(9) Off-premise c mercial signs are prohibited 'thin the Major Transportation
Corridor(M ) overlay district.
(10) No pers may, for the purpose of increasing or en ncing the visibility of any
off-pre ises commercial sign, damage, trim, destroy, remove any trees,
shr s, or other vegetation in the following locations:
Within the right-of-way of any public street or road, less the work is
done pursuant to the express written authorization of e North Carolina
Department of Transportation;
(b) On property that is not under the ownership or control of the erson
responsible for such work, unless the work is done pursuant to he
express authorization of the property owner where the vegetatio 's
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.
Wall Signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC-1, NC-2,
3 9 9
O 9 p
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) 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 6-88
Article 6: Development Standards 74
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 44 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, E1, 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�4 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 fagade.
(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, E1, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, AS, MPD-CZ, ASE-CZ, REDA-CZ-1 and
all of the Economic Development zoning districts.
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-89
Article 6: Development Standards 75
Section 6.12: Signs
(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
(1) Awning signs shall be permitted within the following zoning districts: LC-1, NC-2,
CC-3, GC-4, EC-5, OI, El, 1-1, 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 satisfaZaheight e Planning Director that rive-
through menu sign is considered a cuscessory use to the pri pal
business on the property and is necess normal operations the
commercial operation.
Signs shall be limited to 32 square feet
(3) No external illumination shall be permit
(4) A nd use that utilizes such a sign shape itted an independent
spe er box, no greater than 12 squar a with a height no greater that
four fee .
6.12.13 Sign Standards for Specific ses
In addition to the requirements con 'ned herein, t following land uses shall adhere to these
additional standards:
(A) Changeable Copy Signs Utilize Churches or Public Entities
(1) Shall not exceed 32 s are fee ' area.
(2) Bulletin boards/re er boards may internally illuminated.
(B) Service Stations/G Station
(1) Signs m be erected above gas pumps subs t to the following standards:
(a) No internal or external illumination shall b ermitted;
Signs shall be limited to four square feet in are - and
(c) Signs must advertise items for sale on the property. Under no
circumstances may a sign advertise a sale, activity, b 'ness, or product
not associated with the principal use of property.
(2) Signs may be erected on the canopy covering gas pumps subject to th following
standards:
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-90
Article 6: Development Standards 76
Section 6.12: Signs
(a) Advertising material shall be limited to trademarks, logos, and the ame
of the service station or other similar display.
(b) Such displays shall be limited to six square feet of area.
(C) Yard Sales/Garage
(1) Signs shall be erected on the property where the sale is taking p ce.
(2) Signs shall be limited to four square feet of area.
3) No off-site displays shall be permitted.
( Signs shall be removed no later than sunset of the day t event occurs.
(D) Insti tional Uses and Private Parks Located within Resid tial Zoning Districts
(1) One ground and one wall sign shall be permitted;
(2) imum sign area shall be 32 square feet per s* n face; and
(3) No g and sign shall exceed six feet in height.
(E) Home Occupa ' ns
(1) The Home Occupation shall have a valid oning Compliance Permit issued by
Orange Co ty;
(2) There shall on be one sign limited t eight square feet in area and four feet in
height;
(3) Such sign shall not a illuminate y any means;
(4) Sign shall not be locat d withi any public street right-of-way, sight visibility
triangle, easement, vehi ular rea or other similar area; and
(5) The sign message shall b imited to the business name and telephone number.
(F) Parks, Public and Non-profit; ecr tional Facilities, Non-Profit; Recreational
Facilities, Golf Courses; an ecreat nal Facilities, Profit
(1) Purpose and Inten
(a) Unlike si s for non-resident I development(s), signs for recreational
land us s are intended to sery a different function and purpose. Signs
within hese types of land uses a e intended to provide essential
info r ation concerning:
(i Rules and regulations gover . g the operation of the facility;
(ii) Educational information identify g unique aspects of the facility,
the property itself, or significant a vironmental features that are
located on the property; and
(iii) Identification of sponsors or public/pri to partnerships that are
responsible for the development, upkee and maintenance of
existing recreational amenities.
(b) While some of this information could be construed a eing advertising
material, the County views such signs as identifying th a responsible
for the existence of the facility and allows for recognition f entities that
have entered into partnerships with the operator of the fac 'ty to provide
local residents with recreational opportunities.
(2) Applicability
The regulations included herein govern the erection of signs at the followi
(a) Parks, Public and Non-profit,
(b) Recreational Facilities, Non-Profit,
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-91
Article 6: Development Standards 77
Section 6.12: Signs
(c) Recreational Facilities, Golf Courses, and
(d) Recreational Facilities, Profit within the County.
(3) miffed Signs
(a) eestanding identification signs ann cing the name of the facility/land
use subject to the following s dards:
(i) Th shall be on ne freestanding identification sign per
propert ,
(ii) Frees ding i tification signs shall be limited to 20 square
f of sign area. I conomic Development Districts, a
maximum sign area of quare feet shall be permitted,
Iii) The sign may be either a groun r pole sign,
(iv) Freestanding identification signs shal set back a minimum of
ten feet from all property lines, and
(v) Illumination of freestanding identification signs sh a permitted
in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance,
(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 fagade 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 fagade.
(v) The maximum sign area shall be determined as follows:
a. One square foot of wall sign area for every�4 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 si
(vii) Wall signs shall not extend above the parapet, or eave line
of the building to which it is ed.
(viii) The si ernally illuminated or have external
illumi ins consistent with the provisions of this
rdinance.
Informational Signs
Orange County, North Carolina—Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-92
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