[THE FOLLOWING IS A COMPARISON OF THE OLD SIGN CODE WITH THE REVISED SIGN CODE OF MAY 2007. THE OLD CODE IS USED AS THE PRIMARY FORMAT. THEREFORE THE SEQUENCE WILL NOT NECESSARILY CORRELATE WITH THE SEQUENCE OF THE NEW CODE. THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT IS TO DEMONSTRATE PORTIONS OF THE CODE THAT HAVE BEEN OMITTED AND PORTIONS OF THE CODE THAT ARE NEW]

§ 219-5. Sign types and restrictions.

§ 267-33. Signs

C. General Provisions. The following broad categories of sign types are regulated by this Section unless otherwise provided herein.

AC(1). Canopy signs. A canopy is a detachable rooflike structure supported from the ground, deck, floor, wall or building for the purpose of protection from the sun or weather. A sign may be displayed on a canopy, provided that the must have its lowest point of the sign is no closer than eight (8) feet to the ground.

B.C(2) Freestanding signs. A freestanding sign shall include any sign supported by uprights or braces placed upon the ground and not attached to any building. Business signs may be freestanding if the property has a minimum of forty (40) feet of road frontage. The sign area shall be calculated on the basis of one (1) square foot of sign for every foot of property road frontage. However, The maximum area of any freestanding sign shall not exceed two hundred (200) 120 square feet. The setback measured to the edge of the sign shall be equal to one-third (1/3) of the required building setback. Unless otherwise provided herein, the maximum height allowed for any freestanding sign is thirty-five (35) 20 feet above the nearest public road grade.measured from the base of the sign. [Amended by Bill No. 86-28]

C. Marquees. Marquees shall include any covering of permanent construction projecting from the wall of a building above an entrance. Marquees shall not project more than one-half (1/2) of the required building setback for the district.

D.C(5) Projecting signs. Projecting signs shall include any sign which is attached to a building and extends beyond the line of said building or beyond the surface of that portion of the building to which it is attached. Projecting signs may not project over public rights-of-way, and may not or project more than four (4) feet from the wall of a building. Projecting signs may not nor have less than ten (10) feet clearance, as measured vertically from the ground to the bottom of the sign or supporting structure. No projecting sign shall be erected at , and shall not exceed a height exceeding twenty-five ( of 25) feet, as measured vertically from the ground to the top of the sign or supporting structure. Projecting signs shall have a maximum sign area of 60 square feet. No window or part of a window shall be covered by the sign area or its supporting structure.

E. Roof signs. Roof sign shall mean any sign erected, constructed and maintained upon or over the roof of any building with the principal support on the roof structure. No roof-mounted sign or supporting structure shall extend more than eight (8) feet above the parapet wall or roofline of the building to which it is attached.

F. Temporary signs. [Amended by Bill No. 86-28]

(1)C(4) Temporary signs shall include any portable sign or any other sign, banner, pennant, valance or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, cardboard, wallboard or other light materials, with or without frames, intended to be displayed for a short period of time only. They must conform to the requirements of the Harford County Building and Electrical Codes. Temporary signs may be displayed for periods not exceeding thirty (30) consecutive days and not exceeding sixty (60) days in anyone (1) year. They Temporary signs shall be set back not less than ten (10) feet from the property line, and shall have a maximum sign area of thirty-two (32) square feet and shall not exceed a height of six (6) feet.

(2) Temporary signs in existence prior to October 22, 1982, shall have two (2) years from the date of enactment of this subsection to comply with the provisions of Subsection F(1) above.

(3) Agricultural seasonal signs shall include any portable or temporary sign which advertises an agricultural product, as defmed in Section 267-4 of the Harford County Code, intended to be displayed on a seasonal basis only, not exceeding 60 consecutive days. They shall be set back not less than 10 feet from the property line or road right-of-way, shall have a maximum sign area of 32 square feet, and a maximum height of 6 feet. [Added by Bill 01-40 as amended]

G.C(3) Wall signs. Wall signs shall include all flat signs which are placed against a building or other structure and attached to the exterior front, rear or side wall of any building or other structure. Flat wall-mounted signs may be located on any wall of a building and may extend not more than eight (8) feet above the parapet wall or roofline of the building to which they are attached. However, no window or part of a window shall be covered by the sign area or its supporting structure.

§ 219-6. Permits A. Zoning Certificates; fees.

A. A(1) Permit Zoning Certificate requirement. It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, alter or relocate any sign or other advertising structure as defined in this Part 1, chapter without first obtaining a sign Zoning Certificate permit and making payment of the required fee. All illuminated or electrically operated signs shall, in addition, be subject to the provisions of the Harford County Electrical Code and any permit fees required there under.

B. A(2) Application. Application for a sign permit Zoning Certificate shall be signed by the owner or authorized agent. The sign permit Zoning Certificate application shall also contain or require the name and address of the sign owner or the sign erector, drawings showing the copy design, dimensions, height and location of the sign and such other pertinent information as the Department may require to ensure compliance with the laws of Harford County, Maryland. Whenever an application for a sign permit Zoning Certificate is filed for the erection of a sign in any area of Harford County designated as a historic landmark or district, the application shall be subject to the approvals of the Historic District Commission and the Department.

C. Fees. Fees for sign permits shall be as established and specified in Chapter 157, Article II, of the Harford County Code, as amended.

D. Nullification. A sign permit shall become null and void if the work for which the permit was issued has not been completed within twelve (12) months after the date ofissuance of the permit.

E. Revocation. The Director is hereby authorized and empowered to revoke any permit issued upon failure of the permittee to comply with any provision of this chapter.

§ 219-7. D. Exemptions.

The following types of signs are exempt from all the provisions of this Section chapter, except for construction and safety regulations and the following standards:

A.D(1) Public signs: public signs erected by or on the order of a public official in the performance of duty, such as but not limited to directional signs, regulatory signs, warning signs, informational signs and legal notices.

B. Special event signs: temporary signs announcing any public, charitable, educational or religious event or function, located on the premises where the event or function is to take place. They shall be set back not less than 10 feet from the property line and shall have a maximum sign area of 3 2 square feet and shall not exceed a height of 6 feet. Such signs shall not be erected more than 30 days prior to the event or function and must be removed within 7 days after the event or function. Such signs shall not be illuminated. Ifbuilding-mounted, these signs shall be flat wall signs and shall not project above the roofline.

C. D(2) Integral signs: Integral signs designating names of buildings, dates of erection, monumental citations, commemorative tablets and plaques when that are carved into stone, concrete or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum or other permanent-type construction and made an integral part of the structure, as well as signs forming an integral part of or attached to pumps dispersing fuels, vending machines and service appliances.

D. D(6) Private traffic control: Ssigns directing traffic movement onto a premises or within a premises, not exceeding 4 square feet in area for each sign. Illumination of these signs shall conform to the provisions of this Section § 219-11 hereof.

E. D(7) Real estate signs: real estate signs not exceeding 6 square feet in area and located on the subject property tract. They shall be removed within 14 days after execution of a lease or contract for sale of the property.

F. D(11) Project development sign: Ttemporary signs for undeveloped parcels offering the sale, rental or lease of the property to be set back at least 10 feet from the road right-of-way and not to exceed 10 6 feet in height above the road grade. One sign shall be permitted for each road frontage of at least 50 feet. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 32 square feet.:

(1) Twenty-four square feet for property with less than 250 feet of road frontage.

(2) Forty-eight square feet for property with more than 250 feet but less than 500 feet of road frontage.

(3) Sixty-four square feet for property with 500 feet or more of road frontage.

G. D(3) Political campaign and public issue signs: except for billboards, signs announcing candidates seeking public office and advocating the support or defeat of public issues shall be permitted, provided that the total area of the signs does not exceed 16 square feet for each premises in a residential district and 32 square feet in an agricultural, business or industrial district. These signs shall be confined to private property. No sign shall be placed within 60 feet of the center of a road intersection or in such a manner as to impede vision. These signs may be displayed 45 days prior to the primary election and shall be removed 15 days after the general election or within 15 days after the primary if the candidate is not a candidate for the general election.

H. Homeowner identification signs: these signs identifying the name, address and occupation of residents shall not exceed 2 square feet.

I. D(4) Agricultural identification signs: Aagricultural identification signs not to exceed 32 square feet in area and not to be located less than 35 feet from the center line of the road or 10 feet from the road right-of-way, whichever is greater.

J. D[Exempted](5) Directional signs: Ddirectional signs for any public, charitable, educational or religious function to be set back 10 feet from road right-of-way. These signs shall not exceed 4 feet in height above the road grade. These

C[Regulated] (6) Directional Signs: The maximal areas of any directional signs shall not exceed 2 6 square feet. Directional signs can be located at the nearest intersection of any major collector or arterial road and set back 10 feet from the property line. Unless otherwise provided herein, the maximum height allowed for any directional sign is in sign area and shall not exceed 4 6 feet in height above the nearest public road grade.

K.C[Regulated] (8) Permanent residential entrance, and Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) or development project identification signs. Residential entrance or development project identification and CCRC signs, with letters or advertising area not to exceed a total area of 32 square feet, shall be permitted on the property, provided that it is located not less than 10 feet from the road right-of-way line. In addition, the height of the sign or structure shall not exceed 6 feet. If the parcel or lot has a multiple frontage of at least 50 feet, additional signs with letters or advertising area not to exceed a total of 3 2 square feet shall be permitted. Such sign or structure shall not exceed 6 feet in height and shall not be located less than 10 feet from the road right-of-way. Said signs may be split entrance signs; however, the overall advertising area may not exceed the 32 square feet. [Added by Bill No. 86-28]

L D(8) Noncommercial flags: Oon-site flags of a nation, state, political subdivision, educational institution, or noncommercial organization, provided that any each flag displayed by a business use or industrial use is displayed on a flagpole utilized to display such flag that is not more than 30 feet in height above the ground. In this subsection, "business use" and "industrial use" have the meaning stated in Section 267-4 of this Code. [Added by Bill No. 91-65]

M. [Added by Bill No. 91-65] Commercial flags: on-site flags displaying a corporate insignia or name of a business, commercial, or industrial activity, provided that:

(1) The number of flags displayed is limited to 3 flags for each side of the lot with frontage on a public road;

(2) Each flag is placed at a distance that is at least one-third of the required setback from any road right-of-way or any lot line;

(3) The surface area of each flag does not exceed 15 square feet;

(4) One flag may be displayed on a flagpole that is not more than 30 feet in height above the ground;

(5) Any additional flag is displayed on a flagpole that is not more than 12 feet in height above the ground; and

(6) The flags are displayed in a manner that does not:

(a) Obstruct access to the lot; or

(b) Constitute a traffic hazard.

N. D(9) Public Transit Stop Shelters: Signs integrated into the structure of a public transit stop shelter installed by a government entity or at the direction of an entity having a contractual relationship to a governmental entity for the purpose of erecting or maintaining public transit stop shelters. [Added by Bill 01-40 as amended]

O. D(10) Ballpark Signs: Signs installed on public property with the permission of the Department of Parks and Recreation at ball fields owned or operated by the County Department of Parks and Recreation. Said signs shall not exceed 6 square feet in size and shall be erected for no longer than 4 months. [Added by Bill 01-40 as amended]

§ 219-8. E. Calculation of advertising or sign area.

A.E(1)Double-faced signs. One (1) face of a sign having obverse and reverse faces shall be considered in calculating the advertising area. In the event that the faces of a sign are of a different area, the face having the larger area shall determine the advertising area of the sign.

B.E(2) Multi-faced or curved-surface signs. The advertising area of a multi-faced or curved-surface sign shall be calculated from dimensions derived from its greatest plane projection.

C.E(3) Irregularly shaped signs. The advertising area of irregularly shaped signs shall be calculated by totaling the area of one (1) or more rectangles completely enclosing the extremities of the sign.

D.E(4)Modular signs. The advertising area of signs consisting of two (2) or more individual letters, characters, numbers or figures shall be determined by the area of a described rectangle completely enclosing the extremities of all of the individual letters, characters, numbers or figures; provided, however, that, if individual modules are mounted on a background other than an integral structure component of a building, the entire area of such a background shall be calculated as advertising area.

E. E(5)Cylindrical signs. The advertising area of cylindrical signs shall be computed by multiplying one-half (1/2) of the circumference by the height of the sign.

§ 219-9. G. Structural requirements.

All signs and supporting structures not exempted pursuant to § 219-7 shall comply with the pertinent requirements of the BOCA International Building Code and National Electric Code, as adopted by Harford County, Maryland.

§ 219-10. I. Inspection, maintenance and removal.

A. Inspection. Signs for which a permit is required may be inspected periodically by the enforcement officer for compliance with this chapter.

B. Tags. All signs requiring permits shall display a tag permanently affixed to the sign in a place conspicuous to the enforcement officer. These tags will be issued by the enforcement officer.

C.(1) Maintenance. All signs and supporting structures shall be kept in good repair and in safe and attractive condition. Signs for which a permit Zoning Certificate is required may be inspected periodically by the enforcement officer Zoning Administrator for compliance with this section chapter.

(2) In the event that a billboard ceases to be used for advertising or falls into disrepair for a period of 3 months, the billboard will be deemed abandoned. Solicitation for advertising to be displayed on a billboard does not constitute advertising. Once a billboard has been abandoned, the Zoning Administrator shall notify the owner of the property and the owner of the billboard that the billboard has been abandoned and must be removed. The owners shall be responsible for taking all necessary steps to dismantle the billboard and remove and dispose of all visible remnants and materials from the subject parcel 90 calendar days after notification by the Zoning Administrator that the billboard has been abandoned. Language retained From § 219-15 Billboards (G).

(3) The Zoning Administrator may order the removal of any sign, erected or maintained, in violation of this Section. Written notice shall be given to the owner of such sign, building, structure or premises on which such sign is located, to remove the sign or to bring it into compliance with this Section within 10 calendar days from the date of the notice. Upon failure to remove the sign or to comply with this notice, or if it appears that the condition of the sign is such as to present an immediate threat to the safety of the public, the Department may remove the sign immediately without any additional notice. Any cost of removal incurred by the Department shall be assessed to the owner of the property on which such sign is located, and may be collected in the manner of ordinary debt or in the manner of taxes and such charge shall be a lien on the property.

D. Removal of unsafe and unlawful signs. If the enforcement officer shall find that any sign or other advertising structure regulated herein is unsafe or has been constructed or erected or is being maintained in violation of the provisions of this chapter, the enforcement officer shall give written notice to the permittee thereof. If the permittee fails to remove or alter the structure so as to comply with the provisions of this chapter within the time stated in the notice, the enforcement officer shall take necessary legal action to seek compliance with the provisions of this chapter.

§ 219-11. (F) Ilumination.

A.(1) The light from any illuminated sign or from any light source, including the interior of a building, shall be so shaded, shielded or directed that the light intensity or brightness shall not adversely affect surrounding or facing premises nor adversely affect interfere with the vision of motor vehicle operators.

B.(2) With the exception of electronic message boards, as defined in Section 219-4, Nno sign shall have blinking or flashing lights. With the exception of electronic message boards, as defined in § 267-4 (Definitions), no sign shall have other illumination devices which have a changing light intensity, brightness or color or which are so constructed and operated so as to create an appearance or illusion of writing. except signs designed to show the time, temperature and other public service messages. Nothing contained in this chapter shall, however, be construed as preventing the use of lights or decorations commemorating religious and patriotic holidays. Beacon lights or search lights shall be temporarily permitted for advertising special events. [Amended by Bill 01-40 as amended]

C.(3) No exposed reflective-type bulbs, and no strobe lights or incandescent lamps exceeding 15 watts shall be used on the exterior surface of any sign so as to expose the face of the bulb, light or lamp to public street or adjacent property., except signs designed to show the time, temperature and other public service messages.

§ 219-12. Signs permitted in all zoning districts.

The following signs shall be permitted anywhere within the county:

A. Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, one for all professionals and firms and one for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 32 square feet, and no more than three such signs shall be permitted on one site. The sign shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project. This provision retained and individualized for each zoning district.

B. (Reserved)

C. Street banners. Temporary street banner advertising a public event shall be permitted if a permit is issued and approval has been granted by the appropriate public utility and/or the appropriate state or county highway authority.

D. Permanent institutional signs. Signs of a permanent nature setting forth the name of places of

worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted if the setback is 1/3 of the required building setback of the district. Illumination shall be in accordance with the restrictions set forth in §219-11. Such signs shall not exceed 54 square feet for the overall structure and shall not exceed 6 feet in overall height. This provision retained and individualized for each zoning district.

E. Agricultural road-stand signs. Signs for accessory agricultural roadside stands shall not exceed 32 square feet and not exceed a height of 6 feet. Such signs shall not be located less than 35 feet from the center line of the road or 10 feet from the public road right-of-way, whichever is greater. Essentially moved to K1(A) only Agricultural

F. Agricultural seasonal signs. Signs to advertise agricultural products as defined in Section 267-4 of the Harford County Code, to be displayed on a seasonal basis only, not to exceed 60 consecutive days. These signs must be set back not less than 10 feet from the property line or road right-of-way, shall have a maximun sign area of 32 square feet, and a maximum height of6 feet. [Added by Bill 01-40 as amended] Refer to each zoning district-Temporary signs permitted

§ 219-13. K. Signs Standards by Zoning permitted by Ddistrict. [Amended by Bill Nos. 86-28; 88-86; 99-59)

The following signs shall be permitted in the following districts:

A.K(2) RR, R1, R2, R3, and R4 Residential Districts.

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the RR, R1, R2, R3, and R4 district must comply with the following standards

Residential districts and residential lots.

(1)(A) Professional or Hhome occupation signs.

(a) One lighted sign, not exceeding two 2 square feet in area and attached flat against the building, shall be is permitted in conjunction with approved professional or home occupations. as set forth in the Zoning Code.

(b)(B) Freestanding signs may be permitted as a special exception, subject to the approval of the Board, provided that they are located not less than ten 10 feet from the road right-of-way, do shall not exceed six 6 feet in height and do must not have a sign area exceeding four 4 square feet.

(C) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(2)(D) Identification signs for Permanent institutional residential entrance or continuing care retirement community (CCRC) signs uses, housing for the elderly, continuing care retirement communities, nursing homes and assisted living facilities shall be are permitted pursuant to the provisions of Subsection C(8) provided it does not exceed one square foot of sign for each foot of building frontage, not to exceed 400 square feet. No advertising signs indicating the accessory uses of the CCRC shall be placed along the boundary of the property.

(E) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project.

(F) For permitted temporary uses (see §267-28), 1 temporary sign shall be permitted provided that the sign shall not exceed 16 square feet or 6 feet in height and shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way.

B. (3) RO Residential / Office Ddistrict .(RO)

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the RO district must comply with the following standards:

( A) Signs shall be constructed in an unobtrusive manner which compliments the architectural element of the building and reflects the architectural period of the building.

(1) (B) The following signs shall be allowed:

( a) One freestanding sign per parcel, which shall have a maximum of eight 16 square feet in area, shall be no more than six 6 feet in height, and shall be placed perpendicular to the road; ,and shall be no more than 20 feet from the right-of-way.

( b) (C) A wall sign for each use, which shall be attached only to the front of a building, shall be adjacent to the front entryway and shall be no larger than four 4 square feet in area.

(2) (D) Freestanding and wall signs shall be constructed primarily utilizing the materials and colors of the primary structure on the site. of wood, brass, or bronze and shall not be internally illuminated. Both freestanding and wall signs They may be externally and internally illuminated.

(3) Signs shall be constructed in an unobtrusive manner which compliments the architectural element of the building and reflects the architectural period of the building.

(E) Home occupation signs. One lighted sign, not exceeding 2 square feet in area and attached flat against the building, is permitted in conjunction with approved professional or home occupations.

(F) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project.

(G) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(H) Permanent residential entrance or continuing care retirement community (CCRC) signs are permitted pursuant to the provisions of Subsection C(8).

(4) (I) Temporary signs shall be prohibited in the RO District. For permitted temporary uses (see §267-28), 1 temporary sign shall be permitted, provided that the sign shall not exceed 16 square feet or 6 feet in height and shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way

(4) VR Village Residential District

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the VR district must comply with the following standards:

( A) Signs shall be constructed in an unobtrusive manner which compliments the architectural element of the building and reflects the architectural period of the building.

(B) Home occupation signs. One lighted sign, not exceeding 2 square feet in area, and attached flat against the building, is permitted in conjunction with approved professional or home occupations.

(C) Freestanding signs may be permitted as a special exception, subject to the approval of the Board, provided that they are located not less than 10 feet from the road right-of-way, do not exceed 6 feet in height and do not have a sign area exceeding 4 square feet.

(D) Freestanding and wall signs shall be constructed primarily utilizing the materials and colors of the primary structure on the site. They may be externally and internally illuminated.

(E) Permanent residential entrance or continuing care retirement community (CCRC) signs are permitted pursuant to the provisions of Subsection C(8).

(F) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project

.

(G) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(H) For permitted temporary uses (see §267-28), 1 temporary sign shall be permitted, provided that the sign shall not exceed 16 square feet or 6 feet in height and shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-ofway.

(5) VB Village Business

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the VB district must comply with the following standards:

(A) Signs shall be constructed in an unobtrusive manner which compliments the architectural element of the building and reflects the architectural period of the building.

(B) One freestanding sign per parcel, which shall have a maximum of 18 square feet in area, shall be no more than 6 feet in height, shall be placed perpendicular to the road, and shall be no more than 20 feet from the right-of-way.

(C) A wall sign for each use, which shall be attached only to the front of a building, shall be adjacent to the front entryway and shall be no larger than 10 square feet in area.

(D) Freestanding and wall signs shall be constructed primarily utilizing the materials and colors of the primary structure on the site. They may be externally and internally illuminated.

(E) Home occupation signs. One lighted sign, not exceeding 2 square feet in area and attached flat against the building, is permitted in conjunction with approved professional or home occupations.

(F) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project.

(G)) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(H) Permanent residential entrance signs are permitted pursuant to the provisions of Subsection C(8).

(i) For permitted temporary uses (see §267-28), 1 temporary sign shall be permitted, provided that the sign shall not exceed 16 square feet or 6 feet in height and shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of - way.

C. (6) B1 Neighborhood Business, B(2) Community Business, B(3) General Business, districts and Commmercial Iindustrial, Light Indistrial and General Indistrial Ddistricts.

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the B1, B2, B3, CI, LI and GI districts must comply with the following standards:

(1) (A) Signs erected on and attached to commercial or industrial buildings. The total area of all signs erected on and attached to commercial or industrial buildings shall not exceed four 2 (4) square feet per each linear foot of building width, measured along the front wall or entrance wall of a building. If a building is located on a lot having frontage on two (2) streets, then the sign area for each side shall be calculated separately. The following types of signs shall be permitted:

(a) (1) Wall signs.

(b) (2) Projecting signs.

(c) (3) Marquees.

(d) (4) Roof signs

(e) (5) Canopy signs.

(f) (6) Temporary signs erected on and attached to commercial or industrial buildings.

(g) Freestanding signs.

[1] (B) Two fFreestanding signs, identifying commercial or industrial activity othen than Iintegrated Ccommunity Sshopping Ccenters. ,Freestanding signs identifying integrated community shopping centers shall be allowed, on each road frontage if the property has a minimum of 40 feet of road frontage. but the maximum sign area shall be detennined independently from the sign area restrictions contained in § 219-5B. Freestanding signs shall not exceed The sign area shall be calculated on the basis of one 1 square foot of sign for every in area for each foot of property road frontage, and the maximum sign area shall be determined in accordance with the restrictions contained in Subsection C(2) of this Section. or four hundred square feet, whichever is smaller. One such sign shall be permnitted for each road frontage, or not more than two signs shall be permitted along any frontage which exceeds five hundred feet. The sign height shall not exceed forty feet and shall be set back not less than twenty feet from the front property line.

[2] For other commercial or industrial activity. Two (2) freestanding signs identifying commercial or industrial activity other than community shopping centers shall be allowed on each road frontage, and the maximum sign area shall be determined in accordance with the restrictions contained in § 219-5B.

[3] Freestanding signs within the U.S. Route 40 Commercial Revitalization District ("Rte. 40 CRD"). Freestanding signs identifying shopping centers and other business developments in the Rte. 40 CRD shall be allowed subject to the following standards. Freestanding signs shall not exceed one square foot in area for each foot of road frontage or 120 square feet, whichever is smaller. One such sign shall be permitted for each road frontage, or not more than two signs shall be permnitted along any frontage which exceeds 500 feet. The maximum sign height allowed for any freestanding sign in the Rte. 40 CRD is 20 feet measured from the base of the sign. The sign shall be set back not less than 20 feet from the front property line. [Added by Bill 00-10] Refer to section K “Sign Standards by Zoning District and Development Type Subsection (8) U.S. Route 40 Commercial Revitalization District (CRD). This section of K(8) increased the total area of all signs not to exceed 2 square feet per each linear foot of building width, measured along the front wall or entrance wall of a building. For buildings with 2 fontages on 2 streets the sign area for each side is calculated independently.

(C) For permitted temporary uses (see §267-28), 1 temporary sign shall be permitted, provided that the sign shall not exceed 32 square feet or 6 feet in height and shall not be located less than 1/3 of the setback requirements of the zoning district where the use is permitted.

(D) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project.

(E) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 54 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(F) Permanent residential entrance or continuing care retirement community (CCRC) signs are permitted pursuant to the provisions of Subsection C(8).

(G) An overall signage plan and architectural renderings of the signs shall be submitted as part of the site plan approval process. The signage shall be compatible in quality, style, color and materials to the building(s). Creative modifications to the standard signage package used by large corporations and innovative sign lighting is strongly encouraged

(2) Directional signs. One (1) directional sign, not exceeding four (4) square feet in area nor six (6) feet in height above the road grade, shall be permitted per business use if located at the nearest intersection of any major collector or arterial road and set back the required distance for the district. However, the maximum number of directional signs shall not exceed three (3) per intersectional quadrant.

D.K(1) Agricultural districts. [Amended by Bill No. 99-59 as amended]

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the Agricultural (AG) district must comply with the following standards:

(A) Commercial signs (including agricultural public events, agricultural retail and any sign in connection with an approved special development or permitted non-residential use). One externally lighted sign, not exceeding 16 square feet in area, on lots not exclusively used for residential purposes, shall be permitted. These signs may be attached flat against the building, or, if freestanding, located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way. Freestanding signs may not exceed 6 feet in height.

(B) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 40 square feet in area and shall not exceed 8 feet in height.

(C) Permanent residential entrance or continuing care retirement community (CCRC) signs are permitted pursuant to the provisions of Subsection C(8).

(D) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area, and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project

(1)(F) Professional or Hhome occupation signs. One lighted sign, not exceeding 2 two square feet in area, on lots not exclusively used for residential purposes shall be permitted. These signs may be and attached flat against the building, or, if freestanding, located not less than ten feet from the road right of way. is permitted in conjunction with approved professional or home occupations

(2)(E) Directional signs. One directional sign, not exceeding four 6 square feet in sign area and six 6 feet in height above the road grade, shall be permitted per business use if set back ten 10 feet from the road right-of-way and located at the nearest intersecting arterial road.

(3)(G) For permitted temporary uses (see §267-28), One 1 temporary sign for agricultural public events or for special development projects identifying an agricultural industry shall be permitted on-site, provided that the sign it does shall not exceed 24 32 square feet in area or 6 feet in height and is shall be located a minimum of not less than 35 20 feet from the center line of the road or 10 feet from the public road right of way., whichever is greater. Signs shall not be internally illuminated. A sign displayed for an agricultural event shall be removed within 5 business days from the date the event concludes. [Added by Bill No. 99-59]

(7) Mixed Office District.

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the MO district must comply with the following standards:

(A) Signs erected on and attached to commercial or industrial buildings. The total area of all signs erected on, and attached to, commercial or industrial buildings shall not exceed 1 square foot per each linear foot of building width measured along the front wall or entrance wall of a building. If a building is located on a lot having frontage on 2 streets, then the sign area for each side shall be calculated separately. The following types of signs shall be permitted:

[1] Wall signs.

[2] Projecting signs.

[3] Marquee signs.

[4] Roof signs.

[5] Canopy signs.

(B) Signs shall be considered an integral part of the design and shall incorporate the architectural elements and materials utilized. In all instances, consideration shall be taken to ensure each sign does not restrict sight distance for motor vehicle operators.

(C) An overall signage plan and architectural renderings of the signs shall be submitted as part of the site plan approval process. The signage shall be compatible in quality, style, color and materials to the building(s). Creative modifications to the standard signage package used by large corporations and innovative sign lighting is strongly encouraged

(D) Freestanding identification signs shall be limited to 1 sign for each road frontage. The maximum size of any sign shall not exceed 50 square feet. The maximum height of the signs shall not exceed 10 feet, and signs must be set back a minimum of 10 feet from the road right-of-way.

(E) Directional information signs shall be adequately provided and design coordinated.

(F) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 54 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(G) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project.

( H) The following types of signs shall not be permitted for any project located in the MO District:

[1] Billboards.

[2] Flashing, revolving, rotating or changing-light-intensity or changing-color signs.

[3] Temporary or portable signs.

(8) U.S. Route 40 Commercial Revitalization District (CRD)

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the CRD district must comply with the following standards:

(A) Signs erected on, and attached to, commercial or industrial buildings. The total area of all signs erected on, and attached to, commercial or industrial buildings shall not exceed 2 square feet per each linear foot of building width, measured along the front wall or entrance wall of a building. If a building is located on a lot having frontage on 2 streets, then the sign area for each side shall be calculated separately. The following types of signs shall be permitted:

[1] Wall signs.

[2] Projecting signs.

[3] Marquee signs.

[4] Roof signs.

[5] Canopy signs.

(B) An overall signage plan and architectural renderings of the signs shall be submitted as part of the site plan approval process. The signage shall be compatible in quality, style, color and materials to the building(s). Creative modifications to the standard signage package used by large corporations and innovative sign lighting is strongly encouraged.

.

(C) Two freestanding sign identifying commercial or industrial activity other than community shopping centers shall be allowed on each road frontage if the property has a minimum of 40 feet of road frontage. The sign area shall be calculated on the basis of 1 square foot of sign for every foot of property road frontage and the maximum sign area shall be determined in accordance with the restrictions contained in Subsection C(2) of this Section.

[1] Signs shall be setback from the right-of-way 1/3 of the required front yard setback for the underlying zone.

(D) One directional sign, not exceeding 4 square feet in area or 6 4 feet in height above the road grade, shall be permitted per business use if located at the nearest intersection of any major collector or arterial road and set back the required distance for the district. However, the maximum number of directional signs shall not exceed 3 per intersectional quadrant.

(E) Existing billboards located on sites within the Rte. 40 CRD may remain and may be replaced subject to approval of necessary permits. Should the billboard be located on a site with an existing use, expansion of the use by more than 20% shall require the removal of said billboard. Should a billboard be located as the sole use on a site as of the effective date of the legislation, future development of the site, for other permitted uses, shall require the removal of said billboard. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the owner of a site upon which a billboard is located, within the Rte. 40 CRD, shall be permitted to redevelop the site for other permitted uses or expand the current use by more than 20% subject to the following conditions:

(1) The site is subject to a lease with a third party for the billboard;

(2) The owner submits, to the Zoning Administrator, an affidavit that the owner has made good faith efforts to terminate the billboard lease, which efforts have failed;

(3) The lease term shall end no later than 2 years from the date of the issuance of the building permit for the property and the owner provides evidence of termination of the lease to the Zoning Administrator;

(4) The owner shall provide to the Zoning Administrator, a bond in an amount equal to 115% of the cost to remove the billboard at the end of the lease term; and

( 5) The owner shall record, among the Land Records of Harford County, Maryland, a permanent easement for the benefit of the County to permit the County to enter upon the property to remove the billboard in the event the billboard is not removed within the time period set forth.

(F) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project.

(G) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(H) For permitted temporary uses (see §267-28), 1 temporary sign shall be permitted, provided that the sign shall not exceed 32 square feet or 6 4 feet in height and shall not be located less than 1/3 of the setback requirements of the zoning district where the use is permitted.

(9) Edgewood Neighborhood Overlay District (ENOD)

In addition to the requirements set forth in this Section, signs in the ENOD district must comply with the following standards:

(A) Signs erected on and attached to commercial or industrial buildings. The total area of all signs erected on, and attached to, commercial or industrial buildings shall not exceed 2 square feet per each linear foot of building width measured along the front wall or entrance wall of a building. If a building is located on a lot having frontage on 2 streets, then the sign area for each side shall be calculated separately. The following types of signs shall be permitted:

[1] Wall signs.

[2] Projecting signs.

[3] Marquee signs.

[4] Roof signs.

[5] Canopy signs.

(B) An overall signage plan and architectural renderings of the signs shall be submitted as part of the site plan approval process. The signage shall be compatible in quality, style, color and materials to the building(s). Creative modifications to the standard signage package used by large corporations and innovative sign lighting is strongly encouraged.

(C) Freestanding identification signs shall be limited to 1 sign for each road frontage. The maximum size of any sign shall not exceed 50 square feet. The maximum height of the signs shall not exceed 10 feet from the base of the sign, and signs must be set back a minimum of 10 feet from the road right-of-way line.

(D) Signs to identify the use of an occupant shall be designed as part of the architectural design of the building and attached thereto.

(E) Directional information signs shall be adequately provided and design coordinated.

(F) Construction signs. One sign shall be permitted for all construction contractors, 1 for all professionals and firms and 1 for all lending institutions on sites under construction. Each sign shall not exceed 16 square feet in area and no more than 3 such signs shall be permitted on 1 site. The signs shall be confined to the construction site, construction shed or trailer and shall be removed within 15 days after the beginning of the intended use of the project.

(G) Permanent institutional signs. One lighted sign setting forth the name of places of worship, service clubs, civic organizations, public or service centers, public institutions, schools or other similar uses shall be permitted. These signs shall be located not less than 20 feet from the road right-of way, shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and shall not exceed 6 feet in height

(H) The following types of signs are not permitted for any new or redevelopment project located in the Edgewood Neighborhood Overlay District:

[1] Billboards.

[2] Flashing, revolving, rotating or changing-light-intensity or changing-color signs.

(I) One temporary or portable signs shall be permitted in the area designated as the main street only. Signs may not exceed 8 square feet in area, be located so as not to inhibit the normal flow of pedestrian traffic and in front of the specific business that is being advertised.

(10) Integrated Community Shopping Center (ICSC). Signs for an ICSC shall comply with the following:

(A) Signs erected on, and attached to, commercial or industrial buildings. The total area of all signs erected on, and attached to, commercial or industrial buildings shall not exceed 2 square feet per each linear foot of building width measured along the front wall or entrance wall of a building. If a building is located on a lot having frontage on 2 streets, then the sign area for each side shall be calculated separately. The following types of signs shall be permitted:

[1] Wall signs.

[2] Projecting signs.

[3] Marquee signs.

[4] Roof signs.

[5] Canopy signs.

( B) An overall signage plan and architectural renderings of the signs shall be submitted as part of the site plan approval process. The signage shall be compatible in quality, style, color and materials to the building(s). Creative modifications to the standard signage package used by large corporations and innovative sign lighting is strongly encouraged.

( C) Freestanding signs, identifying Integrated Community Shopping Centers are allowed, but the maximum sign area shall be determined independently from the sign area restrictions contained in this Section. Freestanding signs shall not exceed 1 square foot in area for each linear foot of road frontage or 200 square feet, whichever is smaller. One such sign shall be permitted for each road frontage, or not more than 2 signs shall be permitted along any frontage which exceeds 500 feet. The sign height shall not exceed 40 feet and shall be set back not less than 20 feet from the front property line.

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( D) Directional information signs shall be adequately provided and design coordinated.

( E) The following types of signs shall not be permitted in an ICSC:

[1] Billboards.

[2] Flashing, revolving, rotating or changing-light-intensity or changing-color signs.

[3] Temporary signs.

§ 219-14. H. Prohibited signs.

A. The following signs are prohibited in all districts and shall be removed in accordance with this section. §219-1O:

(1) Signs containing statements, words or pictures of an obscene, indecent or immoral character that offend public morals or decency of the community.

(2) Signs of a size, location, movement, content, coloration or manner of illumination which may be confused with or construed as a traffic control device or which hide from view any permitted signs or which distract or obstruct the view of road or pedestrian traffic in any direction at a road intersection.

(3) Unless authorized by the utility, signs posted on any building, fence, pole or other property owned, leased or controlled by a public utility. [Added by Bill No. 87-26]

B.(4) Except as provided in this Section § 219-7 A, signs which are placed within the Ccounty or Sstate right-of-way. are prohibited and shall be removed immediately by the enforcement officer or the appropriate highway authority.

C.(5) Freestanding signs advertising business uses shall not be permitted in planned residential development projects.

§ 219-15. C(7) Billboards.

A. General. Billboards shall be permitted in the General Industrial (GI) District only. New billboards may not be constructed within the U.S. Route. 40 Commerical Revitalization District (CRD). [Amended by Bill 00-10 and 0140 as amended]

B. Location. Billboards shall be limited to 1 per parcel. Billboards shall not be permitted to be erected within 750 feet of any residence, historic structure or building as defined in §267-4 Definitions of this Code, public square or the entrance to any public park, public, private or parochial school, library, church or similar institution. All such signs shall be set back from the front property line the distance required for a principal building in the zoning district in which located. No billboard shall be permitted to be erected within 100 feet of a road intersection unless the base of the sign is not less than 10 feet above ground level or road surface, whichever is higher. No billboard shall be erected within 660 feet of any highway which is part of the interstate highway system. [Amended by Bill 00-10 and 01-40 as amended]

C. Height. A billboard shall be no more than 40 30 feet in height from road grade. A variance in maximum height may be granted by the Board due to the uniqueness of the property. [Amended by Bill 00-10]

D. Area. The maximum area of any Bbillboards displaying poster panels may be single- or double-faced. No structure shall contain more than 2 faces showing in the same direction. The 2 billboards shall not exceed a combined total of 600 sq.uare feet. Painted bulletins shall be limited to an individual face, either single- or double-faced, and shall not exceed a total of 900 square feet per face.

E. Illumination. Illumination shall be in accordance with the provisions of this secton. § 219-11.

F.See K(8)E No Change to this language Removal of billboards in the Rte. 40 CRD. Existing billboards located on sites within the Rte. 40 CRD may remain and may be replaced subject to approval of necessary permits. Should the billboard be located on a site with an existing use, expansion of the use by more than 20% shall require the removal of said billboard. Should a billboard be located as the sole use on a site as of the effective date of the legislation, future development of the site for other permitted uses shall require the removal of said billboard. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the owner of a site upon which a billboard is located within the Rte. 40 CRD, shall be permitted to redevelop the site for other permitted uses or expand the current use by more than 20%, subject to the following conditions:

(1) The site is subject to a lease with a third party for the billboard;

(2) The owner submits, to the Zoning Administrator, an affidavit that the owner has made good faith efforts to terminate the billboard lease, which efforts have failed;

(3) The lease tenn shall end no later than 2 years from the date of the issuance of the building permit for the property and the owner provides evidence of termination of the lease to the Zoning Administrator;

(4) The owner shall provide, to the Zoning A dministrator, a bond in an amount equal to 115% of the cost to remove the billboard at the end .of the lease term; and

(5) The owner shall record, among the Land Records of Harford County, Maryland, a permanent easement for the benefit of the County to permit the County to enter upon the property to remove the billboard in the event the billboard is not removed within the time period set forth herein.

G.See Section I(2) No Change to this language In the event that a billboard ceases to be used for advertising or falls into disrepair for a period of 3 months, the billboard will be deemed abandoned. Solicitation for advertising to be displayed on a billboard does not constitute advertising. Once a billboard has been abandoned, the Zoning Administrator shall notify the owner of the property and the owner of

the billboard that the billboard has been abandoned and must be removed. The owners shall be responsible for taking all necessary steps to dismantle the billboard and remove and dispose of all visible remnants and materials from the subject parcel 90 days after notification by the Zoning Administrator that the billboard has been abandoned.

§ 219-16. J. Nonconforming signs.

A.(1) All signs or other advertising structures which were lawfully in existence upon the effective date of this chapter prior to the enactment of this Part I or subsequent amendments, and which do not conform to regulations and restrictions under the terms of this Part 1 or amendments thereto, the requirements of this chapter shall constitute nonconforming signs. Unless otherwise provided herein, nNonconforming signs are permitted to exist, except that they may not be structurally altered or relocated unless there is compliance with the provisions of this chapter. shall be replaced to conform to the requirements of this Section when a site is redeveloped as defined in this Part 1.

B All other signs or other advertising structures which were erected in violation of the law or which are erected in violation of the provisions hereof shall be removed, altered or replaced so as to comply with this Section chapter within six (6) months of the effective date of this Part 1 chapter.

§ 219-17. Variances.

The Board may grant a variance from the provisions of this chapter if, by reason of the configuration or irregular shape of the lot or by reason of topographic conditions or other exceptional circumstances unique to the lot or building, practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship results. The Board shall, before granting the variance, make a written finding as part of the record that the conditions or circumstances described are unique to the lot or building, that the conditions or circumstances cause the difficulty or hardship and that the variance can be granted without impairment of the purpose and provisions of this chapter.

§ 219-18. Administration; violations and penalties. TOTALLY REVISED IN

SECTION I 3

A. Enforcement. The enforcement officer or his designee is hereby authorized and directed to interpret, administer and enforce all of the provisions of this chapter, and any decision rendered shall be final unless appealed as provided herein.

B. Appeal. Upon denial of an application for a sign permit, the applicant may file an appeal, in writing, on an approved form within twenty (20) days of the date of action of the Department of the Board. A sign owner or owner of property upon which a sign is located may appeal the decision of the enforcement officer requiring sign removal. relocation or alteration to the Board, provided that the appeal is filed within twenty (20) days of notice of noncompliance with this chapter and on a form prepared by the Department.

C. Violations and penalties.

(1) Whenever the provisions of this chapter have been violated, the enforcement officer shall give notice by first class mail to the owner and occupant of the property alleged to be in violation, stating the nature of the violation and ordering that any unlawful activity be abated.

(2) Any owner or occupant who uses or permits the use of land, buildings or structures contrary to the provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500.) for each offense. Each day of a continuing violation shall be considered a separate violation.

(3) The county may recover damages in a civil action for violation of this chapter and may adopt procedures for the imposition of civil penalties as authorized by state law.