(A) Purposes. This subchapter is intended to: promote and maintain overall community aesthetic quality; establish reasonable time, place and manner of regulations for the exercise of free speech, without unreasonably regulating content; promote traffic safety by avoiding distractions and sight distance obstructions; and protect property values and ensure compatibility with the character of neighboring uses.
(B) Permit required.
(1) A zoning permit shall be required for all signs except for:
(a) Signs meeting the requirements of § 155.137; and
(b) Non-illuminated window signs.
(2) Only types, sizes and heights of signs that are specifically permitted by this chapter within the applicable district shall be allowed.
(C) Changes on signs. Any lawfully existing sign (including nonconforming signs) may be painted or repaired or changed in logo or message without a new permit under this chapter provided that the changes do not increase the sign area or otherwise result in noncompliance or an increased nonconformity with this chapter.
(D) Nonconforming signs.
(1) Signs legally existing at the time of enactment of this chapter and which do not conform to the requirements of the chapter shall be considered nonconforming signs.
(2) (a) An existing lawful nonconforming sign that was lawful when it was initially placed may be replaced with a new sign, provided the new sign is not more nonconforming in any manner than the previous sign.
(b) A nonconforming sign shall not be expanded in a manner that does not conform to this chapter.
(E) Unlawful signs.
(1) If a sign was placed without a required permit by the township, and does not comply with this chapter, it shall not be considered lawful, and shall be required to be removed.
(Ord. 126, passed 3-18-2010)