Statement of general findings and policies.   A.   Signs convey information which is essential for protecting the safety of Baltimore County's citizens, maintaining order within its communities and advancing the health of its economy.B.   Businesses, small and large, established and new, contribute to Baltimore County's economic welfare by creating jobs and job opportunities, developing under-utilized and revitalizing depressed areas, and providing an expanded tax base. Because signage is necessary for the success and growth of businesses in the county, the regulation of signage must reasonably accommodate the needs of the business community.C.   The amount of signage in Baltimore County is excessive. Excessive signage unduly distracts drivers and pedestrians, thereby creating traffic and safety hazards, impairing the utility of the highway system, and reducing the effectiveness of signs and other devices necessary for directing and controlling traffic.D.   Baltimore County's appearance is marred, property values and public investments are jeopardized, scenic routes are diminished, and revitalization and conservation efforts are impeded by excessive signage and incompatible signage.E.   The existence of excessive and incompatible signage is contrary to the goals of the County Master Plan, as adopted and amended. Included among those goals are:1.   Improved quality of commercial corridors, including signage.2.   Improved compatibility between industrial and residential uses, including signage.3.   Enhanced control of placement, size and design of commercial corridor signage.F.   In light of the above, Baltimore County has a substantial interest in promoting the public health, safety and general welfare by reducing or eliminating excessive and incompatible signage.G.   To that end, these regulations are intended to be the least restricting means to achieve the following:1.   Eliminate and restrict signs which constitute an actual or potential distraction or other hazard to the safe operation of motor vehicles or the safe passage of pedestrians.2.   Encourage sound practices in signage, thereby assisting the public to locate facilities, goods and services without undue difficulty, danger, or confusion.3.   Eliminate unsightly, incongruous signs which tend to depreciate or diminish private and public investments in buildings, sites and highways or hinder or discourage the improvement of residential, business and industrial properties.4.   Enhance and conserve the attractiveness of natural, landscaped and built environments in Baltimore County, particularly where such attractiveness contributes materially to the stability of communities and the promotion of tourism.Organization and applicability.   A.   Organization. The specific requirements for erecting and maintaining signs are set forth in Section 450.4. In the various zones or uses, a sign is permitted on the basis of its purpose, i.e., class, and form, i.e., structural type. All signs within the scope of Section 450 are subject to the general requirements in Section 450.6. Particular classes of signs are also subject to the special requirements in Section 450.7. Provisions relating to the administration of and compliance with these sign regulations are in Section 450.8.B.  

Scope.1.   Unless otherwise provided, authority for erecting or maintaining a permanent or temporary on-premises sign or a permanent off-premises sign derives exclusively from Section 450.2.   The specific signage regulations for a district created pursuant to Section 259 are applicable to the extent that they impose more stringent requirements than Section 450.3.   Signs for a planned unit development are subject to the provisions of Section 450, unless specific signage provisions are modified pursuant to Section 430.4.   In the event of a conflict between Section 450 and Article 23 of the Baltimore County Code, the provisions of Article 23 shall control.[Bill No. 137-2004]5.   In the event of a conflict between Section 450 and the Annotated Code of Maryland, Transportation Article, Title 8, Subtitle 7, Regulation of Outdoor Advertising, the provisions of the Code shall govern signs visible from federal-aid primary highways.6.   All signs must comply with applicable provisions of the Baltimore County Building Code, except that Section 450 shall control to the extent that it imposes more stringent requirements.C.   Exemptions. The requirements of Section 450 do not apply to the following:[Bill No. 97-1998Editor's Note: This bill further provided that: "construction signs for which a permit has been requested prior to September 18, 1998, and real estate, special event and commercial special event signs erected prior to September 18, 1998, shall be considered legal nonconforming signs in accordance with Section 450.8.C of the Baltimore County Zoning Regulations."]1.   A "sign" not "visible" from any "highway" as each of these terms is defined in Section 450.3.2.   Merchandise displayed for customers and temporary signs incidental to the display of seasonal merchandise, provided that each sign has a maximum area of two square feet, six square feet for a garden center, a maximum height of 15 feet in OR-1, OR-2, O.T., S-E, B.L., B.M., B.R., M.R., M.L.R., M.L., M.H., C.B. and B.L.R. Zones and eight feet in any other zone, and is intended to provide information to customers on the premises provided it adheres to Section 450.6.A.[Bill No. 106-2008]3.   A sign consisting solely of words, symbols or characters not more than one inch in height.[Bill No. 106-2008]4.   A sign integral to accessory self-service machinery, including, but not limited to, gasoline pumps, automatic banking tellers, vending machines and newspaper boxes, if the sign does not display flashing, blinking, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]5.   A sign identifying the owner or manufacturer of another sign to which it is attached or indicating licensure of another sign to which it is affixed.6.   A flag of a nation, state or political subdivision.7.  

A flag which displays the emblem, insignia or symbol of a commercial or noncommercial organization or displays an image or written message at a residential dwelling, provided that not more than one such flag per premises or dwelling exists.8.   Except in the case of an enterprise or joint identification sign, a sign displaying a "street address," as that term is defined in Section 450.3, provided that the sign's copy is no more than four inches high in a residential zone and no more than eight inches high in a nonresidential zone, if the sign does not display flashing, blinking, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]9.   An enterprise or joint identification sign consisting solely of a "street address," provided that the sign does not exceed the maximum area permitted for the sign's class in that zone, if the sign does not display flashing, blinking, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]10.   The part of an enterprise or joint identification sign comprising the "street address," provided that it does not exceed 30% of the sign's area, if the sign does not display flashing, blinking, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]11.   A sign erected by a federal or state government, regional or metropolitan district or county agency; a sign required by law, regulation or order to be displayed or posted; or a directional sign within a property, erected in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.12.   A temporary window sign, if the sign does not display flashing, blinking, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]13.   A seasonal display or decoration, for events such as national holidays, not advertising a product, service or activity.14.   A permanent freestanding or wall-mounted sign of a volunteer fire company lawfully erected as of July 1, 1997, provided that no additional permanent freestanding or wall-mounted signs otherwise permitted by Section 450 may be erected on the volunteer fire company's premises.15.   Bus shelters, Class B.[Bill No. 32-04]General sign definitions.   Unless otherwise provided, the following words, as used in Section 450, are defined as follows:ANIMATION

Any change in physical position by any movement or rotation or which gives the visual impression of such movement or rotation. This includes the foreground and background of the sign.[Bill No. 106-2008]

AREAThe number of square feet within the perimeter of one continuous rectangle enclosing the face of a sign. Except in the case of a wall-mounted sign, "area" includes the surface of all integral color, framing or other design feature by which the sign is differentiated from the structure supporting it or upon which it is erected. "Area" does not include:A.   Any structural, supporting or decorative features which are not part of the message of the sign;B.   Architectural features of the building upon which the sign may be erected, provided that such features are distinguishable from the sign by means of differences of color or similar attributes; orC.  

Air spaces located between freestanding signs of different classes which are erected on a common or shared supporting structure.

BACKGROUNDThat part of a sign lying behind the foreground.[Bill No. 106-2008]

BLINKINGTo illuminate intermittently at a rate of change that is less than the allowable frequency.[Bill No. 106-2008]

CHARACTERA symbol, letter or numeral that communicates information.[Bill No. 106-2008]

COLORA specific combination of hue, saturation, and lightness or brightness; a color other than as contrasted with black, white or gray.[Bill No. 106-2008]

COMMERCIALThat which relates to a for-profit business organization engaging in the sale, rental, lease or exchange of goods, products, services or properties of any kind.

COMMUNITY BUILDINGA building used for recreational, social, educational or cultural activities which is open to the public or a designated part of the public and is operated by a public or noncommercial organization.

CONTIGUOUS SIGNA sign having any part located within one foot from any part of another sign in the same class, except that, in the case of a freestanding sign, "contiguous sign" means a sign having its support structure integral to the support structure of another sign in the same class.

DEALERSHIPA commercial business organization licensed by the state to sell new motor vehicles. For the purpose of Section 450, the term "new motor vehicles" includes new "two-stage vehicles" as defined by state law.Editor's Note: See § 13-113.2 of the Transportation Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

DISPLAY AREAThat part of the sign background actively involved with changeable copy.[Bill No. 106-2008]

DOUBLE-FACEDTwo freestanding, projecting or banner sign faces of equal dimensions and height having a horizontal angle between the vertical planes of the two sign faces of at least 330° or less and a distance between the two sign faces at their closest points of less than two feet.

ERECTTo display, construct, build, raise, assemble, place, affix, attach, paint, draw or otherwise bring a sign into being. "Erect" also means to reconstruct, enlarge, replace or relocate a sign previously erected. "Erect" does not mean the maintenance or repair of a sign governed by Section 450.6.C.

FACEThe flat planar surface within a continuous perimeter enclosing the outer limits of the message of a sign.

FLAGA panel of fabric of distinctive design that is used as a symbol (as of a nation), as a signaling device, or as a decoration.[Bill No. 106-2008]

FLASHINGThe intermittent change, whether directly or indirectly, to an illuminated sign, which exhibits a change to the natural or artificial light or color effects by any means whatsoever.[Bill No. 106-2008]

FOREGROUNDThat part of a sign that is nearest to the spectator and lying in front of the background.

[Bill No. 106-2008]FREQUENCY

The rate of change within a given unit of time. "Change" refers to any variation.[Bill No. 106-2008]

FRONTAGEA lot line of a premises which is co-terminous with a right-of-way line of a highway to which the premises has or would be allowed pedestrian or vehicular access.

HEIGHTThe vertical distance from the highest point on a freestanding sign to the horizontal projection of the closest point at grade. In instances where it is evident that the grade has been artificially built up above the natural or surrounding finished grade, the vertical distance will be measured by projecting the natural or surrounding finished exterior grade to the closest point of the freestanding sign.

HIGHWAYA street, road, motorway, expressway, freeway, alley, sidewalk, walkway or similar public facility used for vehicular or pedestrian travel, excluding a pedestrian concourse within an enclosed mall or any sidewalk on private property.

IDENTITYThe name of a person, organization or place displayed on a sign, including the street address or the trademark, logotype, initials or other symbol customarily associated with the name.

ILLUMINATIONThe use of artificial light emanating from a sign, or directed at a sign from one or more sources external to the sign face, which makes the sign visible or more readily legible during daylight and non-daylight hours.[Bill No. 106-2008]

INSTITUTIONAL STRUCTUREA hospital, school, volunteer fire company, church, house of worship or religious assembly.

MANSARDAn architectural element having a roof-like appearance which is above a building wall and has a slope of not less than 30° measured from the lowest to the highest point of the mansard.

MESSAGEA communication, statement or display of information or ideas through written words, letters, numerals, symbols, images, colors, illumination or theme comprising the face of a sign. The "message" may be distinguishable from the structural and supportive elements of the sign.

NEW MOTOR VEHICLE SIGNA sign which identifies the brand of new motor vehicle authorized for sale under a franchise agreement between a state licensed dealership and state licensed manufacturer, distributor or factory branch.

OFF-PREMISES SIGNAny sign which is not an on-premises sign.

ON-PREMISES SIGNA sign erected on a premises to which the sign directly pertains.

ORDER BOARDA wall-mounted, freestanding or projecting sign displaying information about ready-to-consume food or beverages available for sale to motorists within their vehicles.

OWNERThe person holding legal title to a sign or, if the sign is not separately titled, the owner of the property on which the sign is located.

PERMANENT SIGNA sign other than a "temporary sign" or "portable sign" as each of these terms is defined or identified in this section or in the Baltimore County Building Code, Section 3102.2.

PORTABLE SIGNA sign that is not securely anchored to the ground or to a building or structure, is intended to display a message and is comprised of or located on:A.  

A wheeled or movable designed framework.B.   A motor vehicle, whether operative or not, as defined by the Annotated Code of Maryland, Transportation Article.C.   A movable structure.D.   Movable materials.

PREMISESA recorded lot, or in the case of a multi-occupant lot such as a shopping center, office park or industrial park, the total area of the development under common ownership or control. "Premises" also means two or more contiguous lots under common ownership, leasehold or other assignment of interest in real property which are used as a unified parcel.

SCROLLINGAny movement of text, pictures, or graphics, horizontally, vertically, or diagonally across the display area.[Bill No. 106-2008]

SIGNAny structure or other object, or part thereof, which displays any word, illustration, decoration or other symbolic representation which:A.   Is used or intended to inform, advertise or otherwise attract attention or convey a message regarding an activity, condition or commercial or noncommercial organization, person, place or thing.B.   Has a "face" that is "visible" from a "highway" as each of these terms is defined in this section.

STREET ADDRESSThe numerals or letters designating the address assigned to a premises. A "street address" may also include the name of the street on which a premises is located.

STROBEHigh-intensity short-duration light pulses.[Bill No. 106-2008]

TEMPORARY SIGNA sign constructed of cloth, fabric or other lightweight material, with or without a structural frame, that is intended to display a message for a limited period of time. A "portable sign" shall not be considered a "temporary sign" for the purpose of these regulations.

UNIMPROVED LOTA lot recognized on a recorded plat but not yet conveyed to a third party.[Bill No. 97-1998]

VIDEOThe ability to change both foreground or background utilizing electronic means to change light, color, text, symbols or images.[Bill No. 106-2008]

VISIBLERefers to a sign that is capable of being seen, legibly or not, without visual aid, by a person with normal eyesight.

Table of Sign Regulations.   The following tableEditor's Note: The Table of Sign Regulations is included at the end of Article 4.specifies the allowable combinations of sign classes and sign types, along with the use, permit, area, height and other pertinent limitations. Each column in the table has a Roman numeral heading, along with a corresponding summary title. The following descriptions of each summary title are incorporated into the table:A.  

Class (I): The entries in this column identify and define the various categories of signs. Each sign must be categorized in a single class. For any sign that meets the definition of more than one class, the more restrictive class will control.[Bill No. 97-1998]B.   Structural Type (II): The entries in this column identify the various structural types of signs, as defined in Section 450.5, which may be used to display signs in a given class, subject to the limitations in the succeeding columns.C.   Zone or Use (III): The entries in this column establish the zone(s), e.g., B.M., B.R., etc., in which signs of the various class and structural type combinations may be displayed. In certain cases, a sign's permissibility is associated with a particular land use, e.g., farm market, in whichever zone(s) such use is otherwise permitted by the Zoning Regulations.D.   Permit Required (IV): The entries in this column indicate whether a specific permit is required for erection or maintenance of a sign. "None" indicates that a permit is not required, provided that the sign complies with all other applicable provisions of this section. "SE" indicates that each sign is permitted only as a special exception use authorized pursuant to Section 502 of the Zoning Regulations. "Use" indicates that a use permit for each sign must be obtained pursuant to Section 500.4 of the Zoning Regulations.[Bill No. 97-98]E.   Maximum Area/Face (V): The entries in this column establish the maximum area, in square feet, or the formula for calculating the maximum area, permitted within the face of each sign in a given class, regardless of structural type. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the maximum area is considered the limit for each sign face if more than one sign is permitted in Column VI. If double-faced signs are erected, only one face area is counted toward the maximum area allowed. For freestanding signs, the maximum area may be increased pursuant to Section 450.5.B.4.d.F.   Maximum No./Premises (VI): The entries in this column establish the maximum number of separate signs in a given class, or the formula for determining the maximum number, which may be displayed on a single premises. Unless otherwise provided, the maximum number of signs applies to any combination of signs included in each separate lettered paragraph under Column II. A double-faced sign is considered one sign. Where a sign is permitted on the basis of a building, frontage or vehicular entrance, the sign must be erected only upon the building or frontage, or at or near the vehicular entrance, for which it is permitted.G.   Maximum Height (VII): The entries in this column specify the maximum allowable height for freestanding signs only, subject to the additional limitation in Section 450.5.B.4.c.H.   Illumination (VIII): The entries in this column indicate whether a sign may be illuminated, subject to the requirements of Section 450.6.B.I.   Additional Limitations (IX): The entries in this column indicate additional limitations or identify cross-references to applicable sign provisions elsewhere in Section 450.Structural types of signs.   A.   In general. The restrictions imposed by this section are intended to directly relate to the structural form in which a sign is erected or displayed. Type is determined by the general structural character of the sign. In addition to the general limitations imposed by the table in Section 450.4, the structural types defined below are subject to the specific limitations of this section.B.   Structural type definitions and restrictions.1.   Awning: A fixed or retractable nonfixture covering, which projects from above a window to provide shade or from above an entrance or walkway to provide shade and shelter. Awning signs are subject to the following:a.  

An identification or enterprise sign consisting of one copy line of not more than nine inches high may be displayed either on each vertical face of an awning or on each valance.b.   One logotype, set of initials or similar identifying symbol, not exceeding eight square feet in area, may be displayed on not more than one nonvertical surface of each awning.2.   Banner: A temporary sign displayed on cloth, canvas or a similar flexible material and designed to be mounted on an open framework, hung from posts or poles or wall mounted.3.   Canopy: A fixed, roof-like structure, other than an awning, which projects from a wall of a building and extends along a majority of the wall's length to provide shelter over an entrance or walkway. "Canopy" includes a marquee, but excludes a "service station canopy" for purposes of this section. Canopy signs are subject to the following:a.   Excluding the face of the canopy, the area of that part of the wall behind a canopy and that part of the wall from which the canopy projects is considered part of the total wall area for determining maximum area under Section 450.4.b.   A sign erected on the vertical face of a canopy may not extend above or below the face of the canopy, or beyond either end of the face of the canopy, unless the continuation of the sign is wall-mounted.4.   Freestanding sign: A sign that is maintained on a structural framework or supporting element, including a post or a pole, fixed in the ground, but is not attached to a building. Freestanding signs, except outdoor advertising and those that are temporary, are subject to the following:a.   Within a single premises, no freestanding sign may be erected within 100 feet of another freestanding sign having an area larger than eight square feet.b.   On the same side of a highway, no freestanding joint identification sign may be erected within 100 feet and no enterprise sign may be erected within 25 feet of a residential zone.c.   The maximum height of a freestanding sign may not exceed the height specified in Section 450.4.d.   The maximum area for any freestanding sign permitted in Section 450.4 may be increased relative to the setback from a right-of-way of the nearest highway on which a premises has frontage:(1)   Five percent if the setback is at least 10 feet.(2)   Ten percent if the setback is at least 20 feet.(3)   Fifteen percent if the setback is 50 feet or more from the right-of-way.5.   Integral sign: A sign comprising part of the face of a building by being carved or cast, as in stone, bronze or aluminum, or otherwise made or affixed as a permanent component of the building to display such information as building name, date of erection, commemorative citations or the like. An integral sign is not subject to the provisions of Section 450.8 pertaining to abandoned or nonconforming signs or abatement.6.   Projecting sign: A sign having its structural framework or supporting elements attached to a wall of a building with a face which is more than one foot from the wall at any point on the face or is not in a plane parallel to the wall. "Projecting sign" does not include wall-mounted, roof, canopy or awning signs. Projecting signs are subject to the following:a.   A projecting sign may not be higher than the lesser of:

(1)   The height of the eaves, cornice or parapet at the top of the wall to which it is attached; or(2)   A height of 25 feet from the base of the wall below the sign.b.   A projecting sign may not extend horizontally more than four feet from the wall to which it is attached, except that a projecting sign may extend five feet and may have a maximum area up to 10% larger than would be permitted under Section 450.4 if the sign is:(1)   Attached to a building on a corner lot at an angle that approximately bisects the angle of the corner; and(2)   The only projecting sign on the building.c.   If a projecting sign extends over a sidewalk or walkway, no part of the sign may be closer than:(1)   One foot horizontally from the vertical plane of the nearest curb face; and(2)   Ten feet vertically from the nearest point on a sidewalk beneath the sign.d.   No part of a projecting sign may be closer than 10 feet from a side or rear lot line.e.   A projecting sign's structural framework or supporting elements may not be visible.7.   Roof sign: A sign erected upon the roof of a building. "Roof sign" includes a sign having its structural framework or supporting elements attached, in whole or in part, to a roof, but does not include a sign erected upon a mansard, as that term is defined in Section 450.3. Roof signs are prohibited.8.   Service station canopy: An open-sided structure, whether or not it is attached to a building or erected over fuel pumps or service islands at a fuel service station pursuant to Section 405 of these regulations. A "service station canopy" is not considered a canopy or a freestanding sign for purposes of this section. Service station canopy signs are subject to the following:a.   A sign may be erected upon a face of a service station canopy, provided that it does not project above, below or beyond either end of the face. Signs may be erected on or between, and attached to, structural columns which support the service station canopy.b.   Signs permitted on or under a service station canopy may not be erected elsewhere or combined with other signs permitted on the premises.9.   Wall-mounted sign: A sign painted on a wall of a building or structurally attached to a building wall in a plane parallel to the wall, including a sign erected upon a mansard, as defined in Section 450.3. Wall-mounted signs are subject to the following:a.   No part of a wall-mounted sign other than lighting fixtures may project more than 18 inches from the wall to which it is attached.b.   No part of a wall-mounted sign may extend above the eaves or parapet, whichever is higher, at the top of the wall to which it is attached, or be placed on the walls or screening enclosing elevator, air conditioning or similar utility mechanisms which project above the eaves or parapet.c.  

No part of a sign erected on a mansard may extend more than four feet from its surface, project beyond the vertical plane of the fascia or eaves at the base of the mansard, or extend above the face or beyond either end of the face of the mansard.10.   Enterprise window sign: An enterprise sign mounted on the interior of an enclosed structure that is visible from the exterior of the structure. A sign applied or attached to the exterior of a window is considered to be a wall-mounted sign as covered by Section 450.5.B.9.[Bill No. 106-2008]11.   Time and temperature sign: A sign or portion thereof that displays time, temperature or date only. A time and temperature sign may not display flashing, blinking, animation, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]General sign requirements.   A.   Prohibitions. Unless otherwise provided, the following prohibitions are applicable to all signs within the scope of Section 450:1.   No sign may be erected or maintained at any highway intersection or at any other place, including intersections with railroads or with driveways intended for general public use, in such a manner that its location, position, size, shape, color or illumination obscures or impairs a motorist's clear view of traffic conditions, pedestrian crossings or any part of a sign or signal erected by a governmental entity. Except for official signs and directional signs erected in compliance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, signs in every zone are subject to the clear-sight-triangle provisions in Section 102.5.2.   No sign may imitate or resemble a sign or signal erected by a governmental entity for traffic control, except that:a.   To the extent permitted by state law or regulation, directional signs erected to control traffic within a premises must be designed and placed in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.b.   Notice signs may make appropriate use of cautionary wording and symbols.3.   No sign may be placed in, or project into or above, the street right-of-way or any area owned by a government entity unless otherwise permitted under the Baltimore County Code, as amended.4.   No part of a sign, or its structural framework or supporting elements, may obstruct any window or opening intended to provide light or air to a building or to any window, door, fire escape, stairway, ladder or opening giving, or intending to give, access to or from a building, fire hydrant or standpipe.5.   No vehicle or trailer of any kind may be placed or parked in any location for the purpose of displaying a sign attached thereto or placed or painted thereon.6.   Except for flags exempted under Sections 450.2.C.6 and 450.2.C.7, flags, pennants, ribbons, streamers, tethered balloons, laser projections and similar objects are prohibited.7.   Except for A-frame and sandwich board signs which are in B.M.-C.T. Zones and which have been issued a use permit subject to the terms and conditions determined by the Director of Permits, Approvals and Inspections, portable signs are prohibited. A portable sign may only be displayed during the business hours of the premises to which it is accessory.[Bill No. 122-2010]8.  

Except for an outdoor advertising sign with tri-vision, a changeable copy sign, or a thermometer, barometer, weather vane, barber pole or clock, a sign may not display or simulate any moving part or automatically changing message. A changeable copy sign may not display video, flashing, blinking, animation, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]9.   No sign shall emit sound except those types exempted in Section 450.2.C.11.[Bill No. 106-2008]B.   Illumination. Illuminated signs are subject to the following:1.   The light emanating or reflecting from, or projecting onto, a sign shall be shaded, shielded or directed so that its intensity does not cause a glare or a similar adverse effect on neighboring properties, highways or parking areas.2.   Projected illumination must be reasonably confined to the face of the sign.3.   Except for that portion of a changeable copy sign displaying time or temperature, all elements illuminating a sign shall operate at a constant intensity so that no sign has the appearance of movement or of being illuminated by flashing, blinking, strobing, oscillating or alternating lights. The message display for changeable copy signs displaying time or temperature is restricted to date, time and temperature only.[Bill No. 106-2008]4.   A sign may be displayed with reflectorized surfacing if illumination is prohibited.C.   Erection and maintenance.1.   All signs shall be erected in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Baltimore County Building Code.2.   All signs, including structural framework or supporting elements, shall be securely erected and maintained in a safe and presentable condition at all times through replacing defective, missing or damaged parts; cleaning; painting; or other acts necessary for proper upkeep, provided that maintenance may not be used to alter a sign's character to the extent that it is no longer permitted at its location.3.   For a lawfully erected sign, a building or use permit or a special exception is not required for changing the sign's face only, provided that this does not alter the sign's character to the extent that it is no longer permitted at its location, except when changing from a manual changeable copy to an electronic changeable copy sign.[Bill No. 106-2008]Special requirements for particular classes.   A.   Directory signs. In addition to the limitations of Section 450.4, directory signs are subject to the following:1.   The lettering on a directory sign indicating the names and locations of occupants may not be larger than two inches high. Other lettering may not be larger than three inches high.2.   In an OR-1, OR-2, O.T., M.R., M.L.R. or M.L. Zone, a directory sign is permitted if at least 75% of the tenants or functions have independent direct outside access to the building.3.   There must be a minimum 25 feet of separation between directory signs located on a single premises.B.   Changeable copy signs. In addition to the limitations of Section 450.4, changeable copy signs accessory to a planned shopping center or any separate commercial establishment in a business zone are subject to the following:1.  

A freestanding changeable copy sign may be erected only as an integral part of an otherwise permitted enterprise or joint identification sign.2.   Up to 50% of the erected sign area of a permitted enterprise or joint identification sign may be devoted to changeable copy.3.   Animated signs require special exception approval by the Baltimore County Zoning Commissioner.[Bill No. 106-2008]4.   Electronic changeable copy signs are not permitted in the C.R. District or outside the urban rural demarcation line or in historic districts.[Bill No. 106-2008]C.   Outdoor advertising signs. In addition to the limitations of Section 450.4, outdoor advertising signs are subject to the following:1.   An outdoor advertising sign may not be erected in the following locations:a.   Outside the urban-rural demarcation line.b.   In a place where it can be seen from a scenic route designated in the Master Plan, as determined by the Director of the Office of Planning.c.   Less than 200 feet from a residential zone, measured along the adjoining road, or more than 50 feet from the right-of-way line of the highway along which the sign is erected, notwithstanding contrary provisions of these regulations regarding front yard setbacks.d.   Less than 1,000 feet from another outdoor advertising sign on the same side of a highway.e.   Less than 100 feet, measured along the adjoining road, from the right-of-way of any intersecting highway.f.   Less than 250 feet from the right-of-way of any controlled-access-type highway or less than 100 feet from the right-of-way of any other dual highway.g.   Within a town center or revitalization area, except at sites designated as appropriate for outdoor advertising signs in an officially adopted plan for that area.2.   A new outdoor advertising sign may be erected, subject to the following limitations:a.   A new outdoor advertising sign may not be erected until after the removal of:(1)   One lawfully erected outdoor advertising sign; or(2)   Legally nonconforming on-premises signs equal in area to the new outdoor advertising sign.b.   Removal of eligible signs shall occur in designated priority areas, as determined by the Director of the Office of Planning. The Director shall submit a map to the County Council for approval which, based on the Master Plan, delineates priority areas of the county for sign removal. The Council may amend the proposed map at any time by resolution.[Bill No. 33-2004]c.  

If an applicant chooses to remove on-premises signs, only signs classified as enterprise or joint identification signs under Section 450 are eligible for removal.d.   At a special exception hearing, an applicant shall prove the existence of an irrevocable commitment to remove eligible signs within a designated priority area.e.   A use permit for the erection of the new outdoor advertising sign may not be issued unless an applicant proves that the required outdoor advertising or on-premises signs were removed.3.   Outdoor advertising signs erected within 500 feet of a state highway shall comply with the license and permit requirements of the Annotated Code of Maryland, Transportation Article, Title 8, Subtitle 7, Regulation of Outdoor Advertising.4.   The owner of a lawfully erected and maintained outdoor advertising sign which is removed or required to be removed by the county shall be compensated pursuant to the Annotated Code of Maryland, Article 25, § 122E.5.   On the date a property is posted for a special exception hearing, the applicant shall send a letter by certified mail to the owners of all residentially zoned property within 100 feet of the proposed outdoor advertising sign, including the date, subject, place, time and purpose of the special exception hearing.6.   Outdoor advertising signs with tri-vision may be erected, subject to the following limitations:a.   An outdoor advertising sign with tri-vision may not be erected until after the removal of:(1)   Two lawfully erected outdoor advertising signs; or(2)   Legally nonconforming on-premises signs equal to twice the area of the tri-vision sign.b.   Removal of signs must occur in designated priority areas, set forth in the annual map submitted by the Director of the Office of Planning and approved by the County Council.c.   There shall be a maximum of seven outdoor advertising signs with tri-vision within the county.d.   An outdoor advertising sign with tri-vision shall be erected only where an existing, lawfully erected outdoor advertising sign is located as of July 1, 1997.e.   An outdoor advertising sign with tri-vision may not be larger than the outdoor advertising sign it is replacing.f.   An outdoor advertising sign with tri-vision may not rotate from one sign face to another less than every 10 seconds. The actual rotation process must be completed in a least four seconds.g.   The Zoning Commissioner may deny an applicant's request for a special exception upon a finding that an outdoor advertising sign with tri-vision would create a traffic hazard.7.   Except for an outdoor advertising sign with tri-vision as regulated by Section 450.7.C.6, an outdoor advertising sign may not display animation, video, flashing, blinking, strobing or scrolling.[Bill No. 106-2008]D.   Construction and subdivision construction signs. In addition to the limitations under Section 450.4, construction and subdivisions signs are subject to the following:1.   Two construction signs erected as a contiguous sign constitute one sign.

2.   The distance between any two contiguous signs structures may not be less than 1,000 feet.3.   On the same side of the highway, no construction or subdivision construction sign may be erected within:a.   Fifteen feet from a lot line of a premises not contained in the construction site or subdivision for which the sign is erected; orb.   One hundred feet from a dwelling or other principal building on a premises not contained in the construction site or subdivision for which the sign is erected, except that, if the sign does not exceed 64 square feet in an area, it may be placed not less than 75 feet, and, if the sign does not exceed 32 square feet, it may be placed not less than 35 feet from such a dwelling.4.   Construction and subdivision construction signs shall be removed seven days after completion of construction or after the sale of the last unit or lot in the subdivision, whichever is later.E.   Other temporary signs. In addition to the limitations of Section 450.4, the following requirements apply:1.   Real estate signs.[Bill No. 136-1997]a.   A real estate sign regarding the availability of a premises for purchase or rental may be displayed not more than seven days after the transfer of title or the leasing of the premises to which the sign pertains. The sign may state "sold" or "under contract" following signing of a contract for sale of the premises or may state "leased" following leasing of the premises.b.   A real estate sign regarding the availability of a premises at auction may be displayed not more than 21 days before an auction and shall be removed immediately following the conclusion of the auction.2.   No special event or commercial special event sign may be displayed for more than 30 days before or five days after the event to which it pertains. No premises may display a special event or commercial special event sign for more than 60 days in any calendar year.3.   A special event or political campaign sign may be erected as an off-premises sign on private property with the permission of the property owner.F.   Political campaign signs.Editor's Note: A federal district court declared § 450.7F unconstitutional as a prior restraint on free speech in violation of the First and Fourteenth Amendments and permanently enjoined the County from enforcing it. [Clarence Bell et al v. Baltimore County, CCB 07-0305. See also 550 F.Supp.2d 590 (2008).][Bill Nos. 136-1997; 97-1998; 139-2006]1.   Political campaign signs, if required by state law to contain an authority line on behalf of a candidate or political issue, may be erected on private property no earlier than 45 days prior to any primary election.2.   Political campaign signs must be removed within seven days after the closing of the polls following any primary election by any unsuccessful primary candidate and within seven days after the closing of the polls following any general election by all other candidates.Administration and compliance.   A.   Interpretation.1.  

In considering requests for special exceptions and variances, the provisions of this section shall be strictly construed, unless the demonstrable effect of a liberal construction will prevent or reduce the confusion and visual clutter caused by excessive signage.2.   No special exception or variance may be granted if it will result in the authorization of a sign class which is not otherwise permitted for a particular zone or use by Section 450.4.3.   A sign for which a special exception, development plan, use permit or variance has been approved prior to the effective date of Bill No. 89-1997 may be erected in accordance with the sign provisions in effect at the time of said approval, subject to the abatement provisions of Section 450.8.D.B.   Abandoned signs. In order to prevent blight in established communities, diminution of property values, hazards of personal injury or damage to adjacent properties, the provisions of Section 450.8.B shall be construed, to the greatest extent possible, to require the removal of abandoned signs at the earliest possible moment.1.   A temporary sign is considered abandoned on the seventh consecutive day following the conclusion of the event or activity to which it pertains.2.   A permanent sign is considered abandoned one year after the commercial or noncommercial organization to which it was accessory permanently ceases operating.3.   An outdoor advertising sign is considered abandoned 180 days after its owner has ceased to display a message thereon.4.   An abandoned sign shall be removed by the owner of the premises or the owner of the sign if different from the owner of the premises. If an abandoned sign is not removed, it may be removed by the county in a manner provided by law. In the case of an abandoned freestanding sign which is not a contiguous sign, all structural framework or supporting elements other than the foundation upon which the sign is erected must also be removed.C.   Nonconforming signs.1.   A sign violating any provision of Section 450 shall be considered:a.   A legally nonconforming sign if the sign was lawfully erected and complies with all applicable sign laws and regulations in effect prior to the effective date of Bill No. 89-1997; orb.   An illegal sign, if the sign was not lawfully erected, is in violation of applicable sign laws and regulations in effect prior to the effective date of Bill No. 89-1997 or is prohibited under Section 450.6.A.2.   A legally nonconforming sign may continue to exist, subject to the maintenance requirements of Section 450.6.C and the abatement requirements in Section 450.8.D.3.   An illegal sign must be removed in accordance with the abatement provisions in Section 450.8.D.4.   Notwithstanding the maintenance requirements of Section 450.6.C, a legally nonconforming sign may be structurally altered, replaced, relocated or otherwise changed only for the purpose of correcting nonconformity. This requirement is not applicable to changes of copy or message on the face of a legally nonconforming sign.5.   A sign accessory to a nonconforming use is also considered nonconforming if the sign does not comply with Section 450. Termination of the right to continue the nonconforming use pursuant to Section 104 of these regulations also terminates the right to maintain the sign.6.  

A person desiring a determination on a nonconforming sign may petition the Zoning Commissioner in accordance with Section 500.7 of these regulations.7.   A sign that is legally nonconforming solely because of a change in the "urban area" boundary pursuant to 23 U.S.C. Section 101(A) or the Annotated Code of Maryland is not subject to the abatement requirements of Section 450.8.D.8.   There are a small number of nonconforming signs that are of such extraordinary significance to the county or the community that removal would be detrimental. At least 14 days prior to the adoption of Bill No. 89-1997, or at any time thereafter, the owner of a nonconforming sign may request an exemption from the abatement provisions of 450.8.D based on the historical, traditional, cultural or aesthetic value of the sign. In making a determination, the Director of the Office of Planning shall consider the significance of the sign, its conformity to the Master Plan, as amended, and the difficulty of making the sign structurally sound without substantially destroying its character. If the Planning Board approves an exemption from the provisions of Section 450.8.D, the sign shall remain exempt from the provisions of Section 450 if the sign is relocated or if the use to which the sign is accessory changes; however, the sign shall be subject to repair and removal if the Director of Permits, Approvals and Inspections determines that the sign is damaged or deteriorated to the extent that it constitutes an imminent danger to the public safety.[Bill No. 122-2010]D.   Abatement.1.   Because indefinite continuation of nonconforming signs would perpetuate conditions contrary to the policies expressed in Section 450.1.A, all nonconforming signs must be brought into compliance or be removed within a certain time limit. Fairness will be enhanced in the future through uniform application of these regulations. Sign owners will be encouraged to comply with Section 450 and will be given a reasonable time period to recover their investments in existing signage. Therefore, except for enterprise signs in residential zones and temporary signs, all legally nonconforming signs, including those approved by variance pursuant to Section 307 of these regulations, must be removed, at no expense to the county, no later than 15 years from the effective date of Bill No. 89-1997.2.   A legally nonconforming sign which must be removed may continue to exist if the sign is brought into, and thereafter remains, in compliance with the provisions of Section 450.3.   A sign shall be removed on the effective date of Bill No. 89-1997 if the sign:a.   Was not lawfully erected or is in violation of the applicable sign laws and regulations in effect prior to the effective date of Bill No. 89-1997;b.   Is abandoned pursuant to Section 450.8.B;c.   Violates Section 450.6.A.1 through 7;d.   Is damaged or deteriorated to the extent that it constitutes an imminent danger to the public safety.4.   Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 104.1 concerning nonconforming uses, a sign must be removed or brought into compliance with Section 450 by the 180th day after the effective date of Bill No. 89-1997 if the sign:a.   Violates Section 450.6.A.8 by having illegal moving or changeable parts;b.   Violates Section 450.6.B by having improper illumination; orc.   Is an enterprise sign in a residential zone or a temporary sign.5.   [Bill No. 139-2006]

a.   Unless precluded by state law, the Director of Permits, Approvals and Inspections may hold the owner of a sign or any entity identified on a sign responsible for removal of the sign if removal is required under these regulations. The sign may also be removed by the County in any manner provided by law.[Bill No. 122-2010]b.   The Director may hold the property owner or the campaign treasurer responsible for removal of political signs.6.   Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 104.1 concerning nonconforming uses, a sign must be removed or brought into compliance with Section 450 by the 180th day after the effective date of Bill No. 106-2008 if the sign:[Bill No. 106-2008]a.   Is an electronic changeable copy sign.b.   Is an enterprise window sign.004a Sign Regulations - Permanent Signs