HomeMy WebLinkAbout1991-08-27 - AGENDA REPORTS - SIGN GUIDELINES RESO 91 120 (2)NEW BUSINESS
DATE:
SUBJECT:
DEPARTMENT:'
BACKGROUND
AGENDA REPORT
i
August 27, 1991
Sign Guidelines
Resolution Number: 91-120
Community Development
City Manager
Item to be p
On November 13, 1990, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 90-35, pertaining
to sign requirements. As part of its deliberation on the sign ordinance, the
Council directed the staff to prepare for its consideration, implementation
guidelines, to be known as the Sign Guidelines.
A citizen committee, known as the Sign Guidelines Committee, was formed to
provide input from the local business community in the preparation of the Sign
Guidelines. Representatives of both of the local chambers of commerce served
on the committee. Over a three-month period, the committee met six times to
discuss and draft the Sign Guidelines. All committee members were very
helpful in their contributions, and their practical business experience in
dealing with signs added an extra dimension to these guidelines. This greatly
helped in the development of a document which makes it easier for the public
to understand the City's sign requirements. The committee wanted to ensure
that its role helped to produce high quality signs in the community, and was
very dedicated to that end. As a result, policies have been recommended
throughout the guidelines for the.Council's consideration.
The result of the staff and the committee's work is. a handbook that helps
explain the City's.sign regulations in an easy to read format. In addition,
an implementation section is provided to explain how the City will work with
businesses to make the transition to the new sign requirements by. the end of
1999.
RECOMMENDATION
1. Pending public testimony, approve the Sign Guidelines.
2. Adopt the attached Resolution No. 91-120.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Sign Guidelines
2. Resolution No. 91-120
MAR:425
Adopted: Agenda Item:,, .
SIGN GUIDELINES
D R A F T
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City of Santa Clarita
Department of Community Development
August 1991
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0 CITY COUNCIL
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Carl Boyer, Mayor
Jill Klajic, Mayor Pro -Tem
Jo Anne Darcy
Howard "Buck" McKeon
Jan Heidt
PLANNING COMMISSION
Jerry Cherrington, Chairman
Jack Woodrow, Vice Chairman
Louis Brathwaite
Pat Modugno
PROJECT STAFF
CITY ADMINISTRATION
George Caravalho, City Manager
Kennneth R. Pulskamp, Assistant
City Manager
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Lynn M. Harris, Director
Christine L. Trinkley, Principal. Planner
Richard Henderson, Principal Planner
SIGN GUIDELINES CITIZEN COMMITTEE
Bonnie Barnard
Jeff Brown
Gary Choppe
Michael Forest
Steve Hanauer
Michael A. Rubin, AICP,
Associate Planner
Jerry Hider
Dick Martinelli
Jeff Rhoads
Vicki Rudolph
SUPPORT STAFF
Sandy Walrath, Executive Secretary
Lucy Furrows, Secretary
Nina Giangreco, Graphics Specialist
Diana Atlas, Graphics Intern
T_ A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
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INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
USE
OF THE
GUIDELINES. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . .ii
I.
TYPES
OF SIGNS BY PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION. . . .
. . . . . 1
Freestanding Signs
Pylon Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Monument Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Temporary and Portable Signs . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Attached Signs
Wall Mounted Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Projecting Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Under -Marquee Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Roof Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Temporary Window Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Painted Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
II. TYPES OF SIGNS BY PURPOSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Business Identification Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
. Directional Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Incidental Signs. .13
Advertising Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Automotive -oriented Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Freeway -Oriented Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Special Purpose Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Community Identification Signs . . . . . . . . . .16
Civic Organization Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Bulletin and Special -event Signs . . . . . . . . .16
Fuel Pricing Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
III. FORMS OF SIGN REGULATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Quantity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Sign Programs and Districts . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Miscellaneous Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
IW. IMPLEMENTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Interim Period - 1991 through 1999. . . . . . . . . . .23
Community Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Existing Illegal Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Existing Nonconforming Signs . . . . . . . . .24
10 Permanent Period - Beginning December 13, 1999. . . . .25
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INTRODUCTION
The two decades. prior to the City's incorporation were a period of major
growth and development in the Santa Clarita Valley. Following the development
of major residential tracts was an expansion of the commercial and industrial
areas. Many businesses expanded and new businesses located in the valley
during this time. With this commercial and industrial expansion, many new
buildings were constructed under the existing codes at the time.. By today's
standards, these codes are no longer considered adequate. One such code is
that which regulates signs. Recently, new sign regulations have been adopted,
to help improve upon the visual image that signs create.
When the City of Santa Clarita incorporated on December 15, 1987, the Los
Angeles County Code was adopted by reference as an interim code. Title 22 of
that code regulates zoning, part of which addresses signs. Over the period of
time since incorporation, the City has amended the- zoning code in several
areas. Two of these amendments pertain to signs. On July 11, 1989, Ordinance
No. 89-17 was adopted which regulates billboards, and on November 13, 1990,
the City adopted Ordinance No. 90-35 which addresses several subjects
pertaining to signs. These guidelines have been prepared to assist sign users
in working with these two ordinances, primarily the latter.
The sign ordinance was developed through a concern that a great number of
signs exist throughout the City. Too many signs defeat the purpose of signs,
which is to inform. Over the years certain areas of the City have developed
high concentrations of signs. As a result, a sign clutter problem has
evolved, in which it is truly difficult to find many businesses due to an
excess of signs. A great number of signs within a short distance hinders a
passerby from recognizing a particular sign.
The purpose- of these guidelines is to explain the intent of the new
regulations and assist businesses and others concerned with signs, in the
transition from the former sign requirements to the current. Signs legally
established under the former requirements are termed "nonconforming signs.,
These will not be required to be removed or modified immediately. A
transition from the new to the old has been built into the sign ordinance to
give everyone a reasonable amount of time to deal with any changes that may be
necessary. Where appropriate in the guidelines, reference is made to where
the precise language may be found in the City's zoning code, billboard
ordinance, and sign ordinance.
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USE OF THE GUIDELINES
These guidelines have been prepared to assist in the explanation of the City
of Santa Clarita sign requirements. Material described in the guidelines is
representative of themost common types of signs and how signs are regulated
in the City. Please= be aware that not all types of signs and their
regulations are described here. The complete authority on sign regulations is
contained in the City's Municipal Code. The code must be relied upon where
these guidelines do not address a particular type of sign regulation. Should
any discrepancy arise between these guidelines and the Municipal Code, the
Code shall prevail.
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I. TYPES OF SIGNS - BY PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
FREESTANDING SIGNS
Pylon Signs
Monument Signs
Temporary and Portable Signs
ATTACHED SIGNS
Wall Mounted Signs
Projecting Signs
Roof Signs
Painted Signs
Temporary Signs
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PYLON SIGNS
Boutique
Shop
15' MAX.
PYLON SIGNS are also known as "pole signs" and are frequently, used as
supplemental signs in addition to a wall mounted sign, when a building is set
back from the street.
Zones Permitted: C -H, C-2, C-3, C -M, C-R, M-1, M-1.5, and M-2
Height: 15 ft. to top of sign structure
Maximum sign face area: 40 sq. ft. per sign face, maximum of two .sign faces
Setback: 3 ft. from right-of-way line measured from the closest edge of the
entire sign structure to the right-of-way, and 15 ft. from intersection of a
driveway and public right-of-way line. The setback must be landscaped.
Quantity: 1 sign per 3 acres and 500 ft. o£.street frontage.
Special requirements: A pylon sign may be allowed only in lieu of a monument
sign.
Municipal Code reference: Sections 22.08.190 (definitions) and 22.52.895
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MONUMENT SIGNS
MONUMENT SIGNS are installed at ground level and normally have a solid, or
opaque base visible between the ground and the sign face.
Zones permitted: Commercial, Industrial, and R -R zones
Height: 6 ft., from the base to the top of the sign structure, inclusive.
A maximum height of 8 ft. may be permitted for sites of 5 acres or greater.
Monument signs heights are measured from the top of the adjoining curb, if the
sign is located within 10 ft. of a property line adjacent to a street. If the
sign is located further than 10 ft. from a street property line, then it is
measured from the ground level at the sign base.
Maximum sign face area: 54 sq. ft., including the base. A maximum of 96 sq.
ft. may be permitted for sites of 5 acres or greater. Two sign faces are
permitted. A maximum height to length ratio of 1 to 1.5 pertains. The height
of a sign may not exceed two-thirds of its length.
Sign content: Monument signs must show the property address in numerals not
to exceed 8 inches in height. The area required to show the address will be
excluded from the area computation of the sign face.
Setback: 1 ft. from any street, or right-of-way. The setback must be
landscaped.
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MONUMENT SIGNS (continued)
Separation: Must be located at least 250 ft. from any other monument, or
other freestanding sign.
Quantity: One (1) monument sign is permitted where the lot has a minimum of
100 ft. of continuous street frontage. Corner lots may include both, or all
frontages, to obtain the total street frontage. Lots that -have a minimum of
500 ft. of street frontage may have one additional monument sign, per each 400
ft. of frontage above the base requirement of 100 ft. of frontage.
Special requirements: If a nonconforming pylon sign exists on the property,
it must be made to conform, or be removed, if a monument sign is to be
installed.
Municipal Code reference: Sections 22.08.190 (definitions) and 22.52.890
POLICY: Under the former code requirements for parking lots, many parking
lots were built with a 3 ft. to 3 ft. -6 in. high wall that separates the
parking lot from the sidewalk. No landscaped setback between the sidewalk and
the parking lot was. required. If a monument sign is now desired for a
business where this occurs, a typical monument sign is likely to be installed
in the parking lot, and have the lower portion of the sign obscurred by the
parking lot wall. Vhere this could occur, monument signs which are hidden
behind a preexisting parking lot wall, may be granted additional height, not
to exceed the height of the parking wall.
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TEMPORARY AND PORTABLE SIGNS
soq off
Sale
TEMPORARY AND PORTABLE SIGNS are either freestanding or attached signs, and
are generally those not permanently fixed to the ground or a structure.
A -frame signs, signs on stakes, banners, pennants, balloons, and signs in the
public right-of-vay other than authorized transportation signs are a few
examples. Nearly all temporary signs are prohibited. All of the signs in the
above illustration are prohibited. Temporary and portable signs which are
permitted are limited to temporary window signs, temporary real estate signs,
temporary construction signs, and campaign signs.
"Temporary" is defined by the .type of material used for the sign. It is
intended to be a lightweight material, of limited durability. No prescribed
length of time predetermines how long a temporary sign may remain in place.
Maximum .area of temporary window signs: 25X of window surface. If a
merchandise display is used as a temporary sign, it may not be located further
than 1 ft. from the window.
Portable signs are those that can be moved easily, such as signs on trailers
or on vehicles. Another form of a temporary or portable sign is one that is
not fixed to the ground or a structure, but may be easily lifted to be moved
from place to place. In some instances, these types of signs are moved to a
location only when needed, such as on weekends; others are used so that they
may be easily stored indoors, and then be moved outdoors when needed.
Municipal Code reference: Sections 22.08:190 (definitions), 22.52.920
(temporary window signs), 22.52.940 (temporary real estate signs), 22.52.950
(temporary construction signs), and 22.52.990I (portable signs prohibited).
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WALL MOUNTED SIGNS
OPPOCCC812- MAX.
WALL MOUNTED SIGNS are fixed to a side of a building (sometimes referred to as
"building face" signs). They are usually parallel to the plane of the building
on which they are mounted, although they may be installed at a slight angle.
Typical wall mounted signs include •cabinet signs• (a sign on a single
surface, usually plexiglass, installed in a box containing all electical
connections) and individually cut letters, often referred to as *channel
letters."
Zones permitted: Commercial, Industrial, and R -R zones
Vertical dimension: 2 ft. Taller vertical dimensions mM be approved for
initial capital letters, a logo, or for a single, large tenant.
Limit of Proiection: Maximum of 18 inches beyond the building face.
Sign face area - street frontage of buildingq 1 sq..ft, per each linear foot
of building frontage on a street. This applies to all faces of a building
with street frontage and each street frontage is computed separately. I£
individually cut, or "channel letters• are used, this ratio may be increased
to 1.5 sq. ft. of sign area per building frontage.
Sign face area - side of building_ If an additional customer entrance exists
on a side of a building, other than the street frontage, additional sign area
is permitted as follows: An additional 5OZ of the sign area allowed on the
frontage, may be allowed on each side that has a customer entrance.
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WALL MOUNTED SIGNS (continued)
Total sign face area, Where more than one street frontage exists on a site,
the total sign face area permitted for all wall sign space, collectively,_ is
determined by the average of the frontages.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.880
POLICY: A long wall mounted sign, where channel letters are used, may be
given consideration for an allowance to break the sign into two lines.
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PROJECTING SIGNS
PROJECTING SIGNS are fixed to a building in a manner where the sign is
perpendicular, or at a right angle to, the building plane. They are oriented
to face oncoming traffic. Signs on awnings are also considered projecting
signs. Signs that project more than 18 inches are prohibited by .the sign
ordinance; only under -marquee signs are permitted. Please refer to the
section on under -marquee signs.
Limit of projection: 18 inches
Municipal Code Reference: Section 22.52.990K
POLICY: Awnings are a papular architectural element in the current design of
commercial buildings. Addresses may be permitted on awnings and will not be
subject to usage of the allowable sign area. In.recognition of the need for
standards for awning signs, the City will endeavor to develop reasonable
standards and seek to amend the sign ordinance accordingly. In the interim,
awning signs will be considered on a case by case basis.
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PROJECTING SIGNS are fixed to a building in a manner where the sign is
perpendicular, or at a right angle to, the building plane. They are oriented
to face oncoming traffic. Signs on awnings are also considered projecting
signs. Signs that project more than 18 inches are prohibited by .the sign
ordinance; only under -marquee signs are permitted. Please refer to the
section on under -marquee signs.
Limit of projection: 18 inches
Municipal Code Reference: Section 22.52.990K
POLICY: Awnings are a papular architectural element in the current design of
commercial buildings. Addresses may be permitted on awnings and will not be
subject to usage of the allowable sign area. In.recognition of the need for
standards for awning signs, the City will endeavor to develop reasonable
standards and seek to amend the sign ordinance accordingly. In the interim,
awning signs will be considered on a case by case basis.
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UNDER MARQUEE SIGNS
UNDER -MARQUEE SIGNS are pedestrian -oriented signs that are typically used in
shopping centers. They primarily serve to direct pedestrians to the
individual businesses in the center while walking in front of the different
businesses; this enables patrons to determine where the various businesses are
located in the center without being forced to step into the parking lot to see
the wall signs. These signs are discreetly designed so they are perpendicular
to store fronts and easily viewed by pedestrians; they do not serve the
purpose of additional wall signs that are intended to be visible from the
street.
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ROOF SIGNS
ROOF SIGNS are installed on the roof of a. building and. project toward the
sky. A projecting sign that extends above the roofline is categorized as a
roof sign. All roof signs are prohibited by the sign ordinance.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.990L
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TEMPORARY WINDOW SIGNS
TEMPORARY WINDOW SIGNS are intended to be installed for limited periods of
time. Paper banners in store windows advertising sale items, or cloth banners
hung outdoors announcing new management, sales, etc., are common examples.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52. 920
POLICY: For indoor temporary window signs, no specified time period shall be
used to constitute a maximum period of time that something is considered as
'temporary." (These are, however, regulated to a maximum window area
percentage of twenty -five -percent.) Rather, reliance shall be on the zoning
code definition of temporary window sign, that designates -temporary as a
lightweight material that has limited durability and longevity. Outdoor
temporary signs are not permitted.
PAINTED SIGNS are those signs painted directly -on the .surface of a wall of a
building; they are prohibited by the sign ordinance.
Municipal Code reference: Sections 22.08.190 (definitions), and 22.52.990M
POLICY: Painted signs may remain as a function of sign maintenance only. If
a painted sign is being cosmetically repainted with the original copy and
colors, as normal maintenance, then it may remain until the end of the
amortization date in 1999. Two circumstances shall require removal of a
painted sign: (a) if an entire wall is painted where a painted .sign was
located, or (b) if an entire building is painted.
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II. TYPES OF SIGNS - BY PURPOSE
BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION SIGNS
DIRECTIONAL SIGNS
INCIDENTAL SIGNS
ADVERTISING SIGNS
AUTOMOTIVE -ORIENTED SIGNS
FREEWAY -ORIENTED SIGNS
SPECIAL PURPOSE SIGNS
Community Identification Signs
Civic Organization Signs
Bulletin and Special -event Signs
Fuel Pricing Signs
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Signs are used for a variety of purposes. Regulations of signs also exist
depending upon the intended use or purpose of the sign.
BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION
A business identification sign is one that displays the name of a primary
business, company, or agency.. Typical signs used are pylon signs, monument
signs, and wall signs.
Municipal Code reference: Numerous sections. Please refer to the appropriate
section for the sign in Section I of the guidelines.
DIRECTIONAL SIGNS
Signs providing direction to the location of an activity are directional
signs; they may be either. on-site or off-site or both. Typical examples of
on-site directional signs are those signs found in the parking areas of
businesses which have drive -up- windows, such as banks and fast food
restaurants. Off-site directional signs may be those located on a street as
public signs directing traffic to public facilities. Directional signs may be
either freestanding or wall mounted.
Zones permitted: A-1, A-2, 0-S, R -R, C-1, C-2, C-3, C -M, C-R, and all
industrial zones
Height: Wall -mounted signs may not extend above the roof line of a
structure. Freestanding signs are limited to 12 ft. in height in the
commercial and industrial zones, and 6 ft. in height in the remaining zones.
Location: In commercial and industrial zones, signs must be located on-site.
In all other zones, they may be located on- or off-site. If in a required
yard setback, they must be a minimum of 10 ft. from a public right-of-way.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.960
POLICY: The City shall encourage use of directional signs indicating
direction to the following types of uses --libraries, chambers of commerce,
post offices, parks, county civic center, city hall, hospitals, and colleges.
INCIDENTAL SIGNS
Signs which provide information other than business identification or
direction are incidental signs. Hours of operation, open and closed signs,
chamber of commerce membership, and credit card signs are all examples of
incidental signs.
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Ouantity permitted: 1 per business establishment.
Sign type permitted: Must be wall mounted.
Maximum sign face area: 2 sq. ft.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.910
ADVERTISING SIGNS
Signs which announce products or services which are not available or located
on the same property where the sign is' displayed are common examples of
off-site advertising signs. That is, the sign is "off-site" from where the
service or product is located. The most common example of an advertising sign
is a billboard. Generally, any off-site sign which conveys a message of an
advertising character is considered a billboard.
Municipal Code reference: Numerous sections. Please refer. to Ordinance No.
89-17, adopted July 11, 1989.
AUTOMOTIVE -ORIENTED SIGNS
Signs which identify motorist services, such as new automobile sales, are
automotive -oriented signs.
Municipal Code reference: Sections 22.08.190 (definitions), and 22.52.970F
POLICY: Automotive -oriented signs shall be primarily limited to new
automobile dealerships or those types of automotive related businesses that
sell fuel or offer motorist services. Retail auto parts stores are
specifically excluded by this definition. Businesses classified as
automotive -oriented may be given special consideration for a sign height which
is above the normal limit. Gasoline service station uses would not qualify
for special consideration unless necessary for freeway orientation.
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FREEWAY SIGNS
FREEWAY -ORIENTED SIGNS are located and constructed in such a fashion to be
highly visible from an adjacent or nearby freeway.
Precise standards for freeway signs are not established. Each request for a
freeway -oriented sign is evaluated individually through the Director's Review
procedure in the Municipal Code.
Municipal Code reference: 22.08.190 (definitions), 22.52.97OF (special
purpose signs), and Part 12 of chapter 22.56 (Director's Review)
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SPECIAL PURPOSE SIGNS
COMMUNITY IDENTIFICATION SIGNS - Signs that announce a city or community name
at an entry point are termed a community identification sign.
Maximum sign face area: 96 sq. ft. per sign face. 2 sign faces permitted as
part of a single structure.
Height: 16 ft. to top of sign structure.
Design: Architecturally related to the area in which they are located.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.970A
CIVIC ORGANIZATION SIGNS - Signs announcing community service organizations
and typically located at entry points to a city or a community are civic
organization signs.
Maximum°sign face area: 50 sq, ft. per sign face. 2 sign faces permitted as
part of a single sign structure.
Height: 15 ft. to top of sign structure.
Design: Architecturally related to the area in which they are located.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.970E
BULLETIN AND SPECIAL -EVENT SIGNS - Signs which utilize changeable copy to
advertise bulletins, notices, messages, or displays- are termed bulletin and
special -event signs.
Eligibility: May be in any zone, but only for a publicly owned, charitable,
religious, or educational institution.
Sign face area: 50 sq. ft. per sign face. Maximum of two faces per sign
structure.
Height: pall mounted signs may not extend above the roof line. Freestanding
signs may not exceed 15 ft. to the top of the sign structure.
Location: 25 ft. from a lot line, where the lot line does not adjoin a street.
Design: Architecturally related to the area in which they are located.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52. 970C
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FUEL'' PRICING SIGNS - Signs which identify fuel prices, brand names, grade
designation, etc., are fuel pricing signs.
Sign types: Signs may. be freestanding, or they may be combined with
freestanding business signs.
Maximum sign face area: 30 sq. ft. Maximum of two faces per sign structure,
per street frontage. On corner sites, one sign with a total of 120 sq. ft. of
sign area is permitted, in lieu of separate signs on each frontage.
Allowable, but unused sign area for pricing signs may not be used for
additional business sign area.
Height: Signs located at a corner (intersection of two streets) are limited
to 15 ft. in height. If a pricing sign is located away from corner, it is
limited to 5 ft. in height.
Location: Must be a minimum of 25 ft. from any other freestanding sign, or a
side lot line.
Municipal code reference: Section 22.52. 970D
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III. FORMS OF SIGN REGULATION
LOCATION
On-site
Off-site
DIMENSIONS
Height
Width
Area/ratio
QUANTITY
Land Area
Street Frontage
SIGN PROGRAMS AND DISTRICTS
MISCELLANEOUS REGULATIONS
Illumination
Motion
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LOCATION
On-site - Signs which are located on the same property as the business which
is represented on the sign. Limitations are set to ensure safe and proper
locations of signs.
Off-site - Signs which are not on the same property.as the business or product
represented. Directional signs and billboards are common off-site signs.
DIMENSIONS
Height - The dimension from the ground to the top of the sign structure is
generally considered the sign height. Another definition of height is in the
measurement of the vertical dimension of a sign.
Width - The horizontal dimension of a sign. This includes any supports that
are visible beyond the sides of the sign face.
Area/ratio - Height and width limitations may not always apply. Sometimes
only an area -(measured in sq. ft.) may apply. A specified ratio of height to
width may also apply.
0 QUANTITY
0
Land area - The size of the property on which signs are located may be used as
a means of regulating the size and quantity of the signs that can be located
on a particular piece of property.
Street frontage - Related to land area is the amount of street frontage that
is part of a parcel of land. This is also a common standard in determining
the appropriate size and quantity of signs permitted.
Pylon and monument signs are regulated by both land area and street frontage.
The above two means of regulating signs have a great impact on the community's
appearance. They deal with monument and pylon signs and are among the most
significant standards of the sign regulations in reducing sign clutter.. These
provisions help provide a balance in the quantity of signs used, so that high
concentrations of signs do not occur. Their benefit is in keeping the skyline
free of a continuous band of signs that visually dominate the landscape. The
result is an improved community -appearance and the opportunity for signs to be
seen, recognized and to more clearly communicate their message.
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SIGN PROGRAMS AND DISTRICTS
The sign requirements described thus far primarily pertain to individual
signs. Provisions of the sign ordinance allow for the administration of sign
regulations as they pertain to a common shopping center, and to a distinct
sector where signs needs may be different than the precise intent of the sign
ordinance.
Sign Program - A sign program is required for shopping centers of five tenants
or more. Also affected are shopping centers of at least 5,000 sq. ft. with
less than five tenants, but which have the potential to expand to five or more
tenants. It is advised that shopping centers consider this and anticipate the
need for a sign program and, if it is apparent that five or more tenants may
occupy the building, a sign program may be required by the City. Where a sign
program is required, it shall be submitted by an authorized representative of
a shopping center to the City for review and approval. This review shall be
conducted through the Director's Review procedure as described in Part 12 of
Chapter 22.56 of the Municipal Code.
Components of a sign program as a minimum, would include the following:
1. Quantity of business signs, directional signs, and any other signs that
comprise the signs of a shopping center.
2. Types of signs proposed: pylon ormonument, wall mounted, cabinet or
channel letter, etc.
3. Colors and materials of signs as they relate to the site, its
architecture, site plan, landscaping, access, and other signs.
Sign District - The sign ordinance provides an opportunity for unified design
themes as part of a special districts where uniformity of signage is desired
to project a.particular image. A sign district may be considered where a need
exists for an area larger than a shopping center to promote a particular
design theme through signage.
POLICY: A sign district may be requested where a certain visual image is
desired. Such districts may include, but are not limited to, entertainment
commercial and recreation districts. Requests for a sign district may be
submitted to the City by a group of property owners or business owners.
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i
0
MISCELLANEOUS REGULATIONS
Illumination - Standards may exist. that regulate the internal or external
illumination of signs and the intensity of illumination. Nearly all types of
signs may be illuminated. Some limits on illumination apply. Most forms of
flashing and sequential lighting are prohibited by the sign ordinance.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.990A
Motion - Signs that rotate are the most common form of signs in motion and are
prohibited. Use .of pennants, flags, and banners that move with the wind are
otherexamples of signs in motion, which are also generally prohibited.
Municipal Code reference: Section 22.52.99OB
POLICY: Signs which are nonconforming by reason of motion or rotationshall
be required to cease any rotation, flashing; or other motion.
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0
IV. IMPLEMENTATION
INTERIM PERIOD - 1991 through 1999
Community Education
Existing Illegal Signs
Existing Nonconforming Signs
PERMANENT PERIOD - Beginning December 13, 1999
9
0
0 INTERIM PERIOD - 1991 through 1999
The interim period is provided to serve as a transitionary period. It allows
a lengthy period of time in which the goal is to bring nonconforming signs
into conformance with the sign ordinance. When the sign ordinance became
effective on December 13, 1990, it established a nine-year amortization
period. The amortization period will serve to allow existing signs that do
not conform to the sign ordinance to remain, while businesses make plans to
modify these signs. The period of nine years was chosen so that by the year
2000, all signs in the City will conform to the sign ordinance for the new
century.
Community Education - The City shall work closely with local businesses and
other sign users to inform them of the adoption of the sign ordinance and
these guidelines. The goal will be to explain the purpose of the program and
how its.implementation will benefit the entire community. Assistance will be
given in working with each business where an illegal or nonconforming .sign
exists, and informing how such signs can be brought into conformance in the
most cost-efficient and timely way possible.
To make this information readily available, the City will make use of a
variety of means to inform local businesses of the sign regulations, including:
(a) Identifying all businesses in the City
(b) Utilizing professional mailing lists, to contact all businesses to
explain the new sign regulations (such contact could include a cover
letter and a brochure that summarizes the ordinance).
(c) Working through the chambers of commerce, which represent approximately
2,000 local businesses
(d) Using of. a display ads in local newspapers to inform the community of
the new sign ordinance and explaining sign users' responsibilities
(e) Working through local commercial and industrial realtors
(f) Utilizing the small business center at College of.the Canyons
(g) Creating incentives for businesses to change nonconforming signs earlier
than the 1999 deadline
(h) State Board of Equalization
0
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U) Yellow pages of the local telephone directory
0 (j) Contacting landlords
(k) Contacting property management companies
(1) Notices in local utility bills.
(m) Local newspapers as part of d.b.a. renewals.
Existing Illegal Signs - Many signs in the City are presently illegal. They
do not conform to the zoning code, even as the zoning code existed prior to
the adoption of the sign ordinance. These sign are often excessive in size,
quantity, or in an improper location. Generally, these signs have been
erected without a building permit or a sign approval.
POLICY: It shall be the City's first priority to create a program of working
with businesses to modify, or eliminate where necessary, illegal signs, so
that these signs are brought into conformance with the sign ordinance. The
first three years of the amortization period will be devoted to correcting
illegal signs.
Existing Nonconforming Signs - Signs that were legally constructed in
accordance with the zoning code in effect at the time of construction may now
be nonconforming because of changes made by the sign ordinance. The City
shall assist these businesses in identifying which signs are nonconforming and
by offering solutions so that they may conform prior to, or by the end of, .the
interim period (December 13, 1999).
POLICY: Nonconforming signs shall not be structurally altered such that they
continue to be nonconforming. Any need for maintenance due to normal wear or
accidental damage may be made, provided that structural changes made are in
accordance with the sign ordinance. A change of wall sign copy that does not
result in a structural change may be made without conformance to the area
limitations of the sign ordinance. All painted signs must conform to the sign
ordinance. For example, a change of. a plexiglass sign face that does not
involve a change to the sign cabinet would be allowed. Single tenant
nonconforming pylon sign copy, however, shall not be permitted to change in
this fashion. In this case, the pylon sign shall either be modified to
conform or be removed.
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PERMANENT PERIOD - Beginning December 13, 1999
�.
System for Enforcement of Illegal and Nonconforming Signs - It is expected
that a certain number of businesses will not voluntarily correct illegal or
nonconforming signs prior to the 1999 date. An orderly system of enforcement
shall be developed by the City prior to the end of the interim period given to
bring signs into conformance. One year prior to. the end of the interim
period, the City shall notify all businesses which have not corrected
nonconforming signs. This contact shall be made to encourage businesses to
conform, and sould minimize mandatory enforcement efforts at the end of the
interim period.
POLICY: Enforcement efforts needed would be performed over an extended period
of time. While such actions could be undertaken at any time, as deemed
appropriate, the City may opt to phase the enforcement. Phasing may occur by
identifying which illegal and nonconforming signs are most visually prominent
and developing an enforcement schedule on that basis.
0
0.
MAR:374
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RESOLUTION NO. 91-120
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA APPROVING
SIGN GUIDELINES
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The City Council does hereby find and determine as
follows:
a. On November 13, 1990, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 90-35,
pertaining to sign requirements. In accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act, the Council approved a . Negative
Declaration for this ordinance.
b. As part of its deliberation on Ordinance No. 90=35, the Council
directed the staff to prepare for its consideration, implementation
guidelines, to be known as the Sign Guidelines.
C. A citizen committee, known as the Sign Guidelines Committee, was
formed to provide input from the local business community in ,the..
preparation of the Sign Guidelines. Representatives of both of. the
local chambers of commerce served on the committee." Over a
three-month period, the committee met six times to discuss and draft
the Sign Guidelines.
d. The City Council considered the Sign Guidelines on August 27,"1991 in
the City Council Chambers, 23920 Valencia, Boulevard, Santa Clarita,
at 6:30 p.m.
SECTION 2. Based upon the testimony and other evidence received at
the public hearing, and upon studies and investigation made by the City
Council and on its behalf, the Council further.finds and determines that the
adoption of the Sign Guidelines is consistent with the goals and policies of
the adopted General Plan, and that the proposed guidelines .comply with all
other applicable requirements of state law and local ordinances."
SECTION 3. Based upon the foregoing, the City Council hereby
approves the Sign Guidelines.
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall certify the adoption of this
Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of 1991.
ATTEST:
City Clerk
Mayor
I hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the City
Council of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on
the day of 1991, by the following vote of the Council:
AYES: Councilmembers:
NOES: Councilmembers:
ABSENT: Councilmembers:
City Clerk
J