Billboard Size Regulation Planned In Abington Township

ABINGTON TOWNSHIP, PA —Big billboards will be banned in the township down the road.

The Abington Township Board of Commissioners recently unanimously voted 13-0 to authorize amending a zoning ordinance to regulate the size of billboards.

Vice President Matt Vahey made the motion which was seconded by Commissioner Lori Schreiber.

Township Manager Richard Manfredi explained that the impetus for the decision has been inquiries by various companies to place billboards in locations that may not be suitable in the township.

Township Solicitor Lauren Gallagher reviewed the ordinance and advised that the township to move swiftly.

Gallagher said billboard sizes would be limited the size of the billboard faces to 200 feet, which is consistent with the largest sign area in the BC Districts and the recommended size limitation is generally consistent with the Montgomery County Planning Commission’s model sign ordinance for visibility along roadways that are not limited access highways.

It is also consistent with existing township ordinances.

President Thomas Hecker asked for any comments from commissioners.

Commissioner Jeffrey Browne questioned whether the ordinance covers both printed and digital
billboards and Gallagher replied yes.

Vahey asked about any location limitations. Gallagher replied that the regulations would apply anywhere in the township.

Schreiber questioned whether there is a limit to the number of billboards within a certain radius.

Gallagher said that is not part of this ordinance and she would need to review the existing code to see whether there is a limitation.