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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-09-14 - AGENDA REPORTS - UDC SIGN REGS MC99-176 (2)AGENDA REPORT City Manager Approv-/ic"Z__�21--� Item to be presented by: Conal McNam a PUBLIC HEARING DATE: September 14, 1999 SUBJECT: Master Case No. 99-176, Unified Development Code Amendment No. 99- 004, Amendment to Chapter 17.19 of the City's Unified Development Code (Sign Regulations) and Chapter 17.13 of the Unified Development Code (Permitted Use Chart) ORDINANCE 99-16 RESOLUTION 99-154 DEPARTMENT: Planning and Building Services Department RECOMMENDED ACTION Receive report, open public hearing, receive testimony, close public hearing, adopt Resolution No. 99-154 and introduce Ordinance No. 99-16 entitled: An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, California, Amending Chapters 17.13 and 17.19 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code, adopting by reference various amendments to the Unified Development Code (UDC Amendment 99-004). BACKGROUND Chapter 17.19 of the Unified Development (UDC) governs sign regulations for residential, commercial, and industrial development in the City. Adopted November 13, 1990, the Sign Ordinance regulates, among other things, the height, size, number, and location of signage in the City. At the time of adoption, it took the place of the County of Los Angeles' code, which had been used by staff as an interim ordinance from the time of the City's incorporation. In adopting a City Sign Ordinance, the City Council enacted standards that were more stringent than those found in the County code. The Council originally intended to have the new, more stringent standards take effect immediately, thus requiring businesses to remove numerous "out of compliance" signs throughout the City. The Chamber of Commerce, however, successfully lobbied for an amortization period that would gradually phase out the non- complying signs and phase in the complying ones. A nine- (9) year period was granted, which expires this November. Adopted:: ��4 - c l Since October of 1996, staff has been coordinating an effort to address the impact of the amortization period's expiration. A task force comprised of various representatives from the business community was assembled and began meeting regularly to facilitate compliance with the Sign Ordinance. Efforts included coordinating outreach to the community and assessing the impact of the ordinance on businesses throughout the City. As part of this analysis, it was decided that a more user-friendly and business -friendly ordinance would help the City take another step towards assisting businesses with the amortization deadline. The City Council approved this modification December 8, 1998. At that time, several business owners raised concerns about how the 1999 amortization deadline might impact them.. The Council directed staff to prepare another amendment to the Ordinance, clarifying what staff analyzes when approving signs and offering business owners an opportunity to apply for relief from the Ordinance in situations where a Sign Review is insufficient. The Planning Commission received a presentation on the proposed changes at their August 17, 1999, meeting and conducted a public hearing at the September 7, 1999, meeting. At that meeting, the Commission recommended that the City Council approve the amendment to the Ordinance with the following changes: 1. Eliminate "Off-site Freeway Commercial Signs" (Section 17.19.180.H) proposed by staff. 2. Further modify "Community Identification Signs" (Section 17.19.180.A) to require that such signs feature "City of Santa Clarita" in larger letters, located above the name of the community. Staff has not revised the Sign Ordinance text to reflect the recommendations of the Planning Commission; however, should the City Council desire, these changes will be incorporated into the body of the amendment. ALTERNATIVE ACTION The City Council may elect not to adopt the recommended Ordinance and allow the Sign Regulations to remain as they are presently. FISCAL IMPACT There is no fiscal impact to the City associated with this item. ATTACHMENTS Update on status of sign compliance Ordinance 99-16 Resolution 99-154 September 7, 1999, Planning Commission Staff Report (including attachments) S: \PBS \current\ signage \ 99176-s3. doe NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY S UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE, CHAPTER 17.19 (SIGN REGULATIONS) ESTABLISHING SPECIFIC STANDARDS, MODIFYING EXISTING DEFINITIONS. MODIFICATIONS TO THE REGULATIONS WILL PRIMARILY AFFECT AN APPLICANT'S ABILITY TO DESIGN SIGNAGE. AMENDMENTS WILL ESTABLISH A COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEM FOR THE REGULATION OF ON-SITE AND OFF-SITE SIGNS WITHIN THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: A Public Hearing will be held before the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita to consider amendments to the City's Unified Development Code, Chapter 17.19 (Sign Regulations) establishing specific standards for a variety of sign types, modify existing definitions, add an Administrative section, add a Justification for Larger Signage section, add an Off -Site Freeway Commercial Sign section, and make text changes allowing applicants greater flexibility in erecting signage. These minor modifications to the regulations will primarily affect an applicant's ability to design signage. It is the purpose of this section to establish a comprehensive system for the regulation of on-site and off-site signswithin the City and thereby make Santa Clarita attractive to residents, visitors, commercial, industrial and professional businesses while maintaining economic stability through an attractive sign program. The hearing will be held by the Santa Clarita City Council in the City Hall Council Chambers, 23920 Valencia Blvd., 1st Floor, on the 14th day of September, 1999, at or after 6:30 p.m. Proponents, opponents, and any interested persons may appear and be heard on this matter at that time. Further information may be obtained by contacting the City Clerk's Office, Santa Clarita City Hall, 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite #301, Santa Clarita, CA. If you wish to challenge this action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council, at, or prior to, the public hearing. Dated: August 6, 1999 Sharon L. Dawson, CMC City Clerk Publish Date: August 16, 1999 \comes\phsig=d.wpd CITY OF SANTA CLARITA INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Darcy and Councilmembers FROM: George A. Caravalho, City Manager DATE: September 14, 1999 SUBJECT: Update on Status of Sign Compliance As we progress toward the November 13, 1999, sign compliance deadline, staff has had a great deal of success implementing the action plan adopted by the City Council. As part of that action plan, the following key components have occurred: Sign Task Force The Sign Task Force, comprised of property owners, business owners, and representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, has met to steer the outreach effort. At the last meeting, representatives from the Santa Clarita Merchant's Association were in attendance providing input into the proposed amendment to the Sign Ordinance. Sign Walk Dav On April 14, 1999, City staff held a "sign walk day," which involved City staff visiting each and every business in the City to distribute information regarding the Sign Ordinance. Positive media coverage was received and overall the community was quite receptive. Staff has received numerous phone calls from affected businesses and will be meeting with them in the near future to assist them. Information Management Consultant Another key component of the City's action plan was the hiring of a consultant to prepare an information database and mailing system. On April 27, 1999, the Council awarded a contract for services to Larkin Lamb Associates to prepare the database and mailing system. The consultant has nearly completed the inventory of some 8,000 signs in the City and will have the database completed in time to meeting the November 13, 1999, deadline. Outreach Staff continues to work with the business community to find solutions to signage needs. Staff has worked with the Santa Clarita Merchant's Association, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Automobile Dealers on changes to the Sign Code requested by the Council. These changes not only clarify the findings staff utilizes when approving signage but also establish a staff -level administrative variance for business owners with undue hardships. Further, the changes propose new signage that will help businesses be more successful. Small Business Workshop In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, the City is presenting the Kent Burnes small business seminar. To maximize the seminar's assistance to small businesses, staff has retained an architecture firm to prepare renderings for two centers in the City. These renderings will be used to demonstrate what a shopping center could look like when complying with the Sign Ordinance. Compliance Staff has been working with businesses in Santa Clarita to achieve compliance with the Sign Ordinance. A preliminary analysis of the data generated by the information management consultant indicates that approximately 55% of freestanding signs (pylon signs and monument signs) and 74% of wall signs comply with the City's Ordinance. This is a substantial improvement over staffs earlier estimates that up to 75% of signs in the City were out of compliance. This increase corresponds to a recent number of businesses complying with the Ordinance, resulting in a demonstrable improvement to the streetscape. The following are examples of recently removed signs: Recently Removed Businesses/ Center Signs • Victoria Center — Lyons Avenue (reduction in size of large identification sign) • Coldwell Banker Realty — Canyon Center (removal of pole sign) • The Grab Bag — Canyon Center (removal of pole sign) • Papa John's Pizza - Soledad Canyon Road (removal of pole sign) • Sierra Crest Center — Sierra Highway (sign program for center, removal of wall signs) • Midas Automotive— Sierra Highway (removal of pole sign and wall signs) • Homemaker's Furniture — Soledad Canyon Road (removal of pole sign) Tiny Naylor's — Interstate 5 @ Lyons Avenue (removal of pole sign) • Unocal 76 — Lyons Avenue and I-5 (removal of a pole sign) • Shell Services Station — Lyons Avenue (removal of two pylon signs) Attached to this memorandum are before and after digital photographs of sites where signs have been removed. These photographs demonstrate the dramatic improvement achieved by complying with the Sign Ordinance. Staff continues to work with the business community and assist in achieving compliance. cc: Ken Pulskamp, Assistant City Manager Jeffrey Lambert, Planning & Building Services Vince Bertoni, Planning Division Conal McNamara, Planning Division pbs\current\signage \update-ldoc L 0 m L 41 a 1 4) t L a a� Q) L 0 Q) m 1 L 0 m Z L Q 1 ■w L 0 m Z 1= 4) L 4) m 4) 4W L W 4W i V O m V L Q Q) 4W L W 4W c W V O m V I 0) L W itQ W 4W CITY OF SANTA CLARITA STAFF REPORT MASTER CASE NO. 99-176 UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT NO. 99-004 DATE: Septemkl¢r 7, 1999 TO: ChaikeVson Kellar and Members of the Planning Commission FROM: JeffreynlVambert, AICP, Director of Planning & Building CASE PLANNER: Conal McNamara, AICP, Associate Planner APPLICANT: The City of Santa Clarita LOCATION: Citywide REQUEST: A request to amend Chapter 17.19 of the City's Unified Development Code (Sign Regulations) and Chapter 17.13 of the Unified Development Code (Permitted Use Chart) to allow for a more user and business -friendly Sign Ordinance BACKGROUND On August 17, 1999, the Planning Commission received a presentation from staff on proposed changes to the City's Sign Ordinance requested by the City. Council, and the small business community. The meeting was not a noticed public hearing and input from the community could not be received; however, several members of the public spoke at the close of the Planning Commission meeting regarding the item. The item was continued to tonight's meeting as a public hearing to take public testimony and for the Planning Commission to make a formal recommendation to the City Council. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project consists of minor changes to the Sign Ordinance that outline the administrative steps that an applicant must take to obtain signage. Additionally, the proposed changes create an administrative variance application and clarify the findings staff must make when approving Sign Review and variance applications. Finally, the proposed changes create new special purposed signs including temporary special event banners, marquee signs, subdivision identification signs, freeway commercial signs, and automobile dealership identification placards. Master Case 99-176 September 7, 1999 Page 2 GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION. SURROUNDING LAND USE, ZONING The proposed amendment would affect signs throughout the four communities of Santa Clarita. ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS As part of the project review, an environmental assessment was made to evaluate the impacts of the project. It was determined that the proposed project could not have a significant impact on the environment. As such, a Negative Declaration was prepared by staff and circulated for public review and comment on July 14, 1999. As of the printing date of this report, no comments on the Negative Declaration were received. ANALYSIS The amortization period for pre-existing legal, nonconforming signage is set to expire November 13, 1999. As staff works with the business community to secure compliance, a final amendment to the Ordinance is being proposed in response to the City Council's desire that staff assist businesses by clarifying the findings used when granting flexibility. As with the previous amendment to the Ordinance, staff understands that changes can be made to the Sign Ordinance that will not alter the intent of what the Council adopted in 1990 but help facilitate compliance with the requirements. The following areas are ones for which changes have been proposed: Administration In an attempt to further simplify the Sign Ordinance and clarify the types of situations for which staff may grant relief, an Administration section has been added. This section identifies the three types of signage applications for which an applicant can apply and defines the findings staff must make when approving signs. The section is divided into Sign Permit, Enhanced Signage (Sign Review), and Administrative Variance sections. 1. A Sign Permit is required for all signage and consists of a planning review and any permits from the City's Building and Safety Division (mechanical permit, electrical permit, etc.). A sign permit is an "over the counter" permit through Planning and generally through Building and Safety. If a requested sign adheres to the Sign Ordinance, the Planning Division can grant approval immediately and free of charge. 2. A Sign Review (Enhanced Signage) is required in situations where multi tenant structures are involved and/or ground signage is proposed. Historically, a Sign Review application would be granted in situations where additional signage needs were warranted—a large shopping center, a structure with a significant setback from the roadway, or a structure with a Master Case 99-176 September 7, 1999 Page 3 large sign band. The Enhanced Signage section specifies the increases staff may consider with regard to wall, monument, and pylon signage when the required findings are met. 3. An Administrative Variance (Director's Adjustment) is a new application created . as a mechanism to address the City Council's concerns that businesses in the City have an avenue outside of a Variance granted by the Planning Commission to address hardship situations. The application type allows business and property owners the ability to apply for relief from the Ordinance in situations where a Sign Review is insufficient. Rather than require applicants to pay a standard variance fee of $2,215 and burden the Planning Commission with a potentially excessive signage caseload, staff is proposing to create a hearing officer (Director of Planning & Building Services or designee), who would approve or deny applications based on the City's Variance findings. Cabinet Wall Signage The current standards for wall signage allow 1.5 square feet per lineal foot of building frontage when channel letter signs are proposed and 1.0 square feet per lineal foot when cabinet (box or can) signage is proposed. Due to the increase in tasteful cabinet signage currently being proposed in the City, staff is proposing to eliminate the distinction between the two types and allow 1.5 square feet per lineal foot for all wall signage. The intent is to allow a business greater flexibility when designing signage for a particular structure. Special Purpose Signs The most significant changes proposed by staff fall into the category of Special Purpose Signs. Within this section of the Ordinance, staff is proposing numerous clarifications and additions to further facilitate the needs of businesses in the City. 1. Community Identification Signs: Standards for freestanding community identification signs currently exist in the Ordinance; however, the language is vague and confusing. Staff is proposing language that clarifies the height of sign text, types of communities the sign may identify, and requires that any signage utilize decorative materials that are compatible with the location and/or community. 2. Off-site Freeway Commercial Signage. In an effort to allow freeway exposure to larger commercial centers located toward the interior of the City, staff is proposing to allow off-site freeway commercial signs subject to a Conditional Use Permit. Similar in scope to the sign recently reviewed by the Planning Commission, this .discussion would allow such signs along either Interstate -5 or State Route 14 in situations where a commercial center of at least 50 acres does not have freeway exposure. Off-site freeway commercial signs would be Master Case 99-176 September 7, 1999 Page 4 required to be architecturally related to the area in which they are located and could not be located closer than 2,000 feet to another such sign. As with all Conditional Use Permits, the Planning Commission would have review authority and would be able to approve or deny any proposed sign. 3. Temporary Special Event Banners. This would allow Temporary Event Banners on both private and public property subject to approval of a Zoning Compliance application. For businesses, temporary banners would be allowed as a means of publicizing special events such as grand openings, carnivals, holiday sales, parades, soft openings, factory sponsored sales events, charitable events, community holiday activities and other such events. Signs would be required to be located within the boundaries of the businesses' structure of lease space and would be limited to 45 calendar days per year. For publicly sponsored or co-sponsored events, temporary banners would be allowed on approved light standards and paseo bridges for a period of time not to exceed 21 days. 4. Marquee Signs. In an attempt to clarify standards for marquee signs, specific standards have been prepared. Utilized for theater uses, marquee signs can be strong architectural component of a structure. The proposed standards ensure that the signs are architecturally related and proportional to the structure on which they are located. 5. Subdivision Identification Signs. This would allow subdivision identification signs subject to a Sign Review application. Different than community identification signs, subdivision identification signs would allow individual subdivisions (Summit, Old Orchard, etc.) to be identified. 6. Automobile Dealership Identification Placards. This would allow automobile dealership identification signs on parking lot light standards that front a street. Such signs shall be required to be uniform in nature and will allow dealerships to effectively mark their respective areas. General Plan The proposed project could be found to be consistent with the following goals and policies of the General Plan: 1) Goal 4, Policy 4.5 of the Land Use Element which seeks to "promote the preservation, rehabilitation and/or upgrading of older centers, including downtown Newhall, Canyon Country, and Saugus, where appropriate." 2) Goal 4, Policy 4.6 of the Land Use Element which seeks to "encourage the upgrading of strip commercial development along San Fernando Road and Lyons Avenue." Master Case 99-176 September 7, 1999 Page 5 3) Goal 4, Policy 4.9 of the Land Use Element which seeks to "ensure that signage on new and existing development is visually attractive and provides a high quality image for the City." Therefore, staff feels that the Commission could find the project to be consistent with the General Plan. CONCLUSION Signs are an important element of both the business and aesthetics of the City of Santa Clarita. Staff believes that the proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance meet the needs of the business community and further the aesthetic goals of the General Plan.. In formulating the proposed revisions, staff has attempted to listen to the concerns of both the small business owner and large business owner alike. Staff recommends that the Planning Commission: 1) Adopt Resolution No. P99-22 recommending that the City Council adopt the Negative Declaration and approve Master Case 99-176 (UDC Amendment No. 99-004). ATTACHMENTS 1. Proposed Sign Ordinance 2. Resolution No. P99-22 3. August 17, 1999, Staff Report 4. Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration JJL:CDM:Iep s: \ pbs \ current \ signage \ 99176-s2.doe Chapter 17.19 ®RAF • SIGN REGULATIONS Sections: 17.19.10 PURPOSE 17.19.11 DEFINITIONS Effifflumuffismomm 17.19.020 EXEMPTIONS 17.19.030 GENERAL REGULATIONS 17.19.040 SURFACE AREA - COMPUTATION 17.19.050 OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGNS - CONDITIONS 17.19.060 COMMERCIAL HANDBILLS 17.19.070 BUSINESS SIGNS IN AGRICULTURAL AND OPEN SPACE ZONES 17.19.080 BUSINESS SIGNS IN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES. 17.19.090 WALL BUSINESS SIGNS 17.19.100 MONUMENT SIGNS 17.19.110 PYLON SIGNS 17.19.120 INCIDENTAL BUSINESS SIGNS 17.19.130 TEMPORARY WINDOW SIGNS 17.19.140 BUILDING IDENTIFICATION SIGNS 17.19.150 TEMPORARY REAL ESTATE SIGNS 17.19.160 TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION SIGNS 17.19.170 DIRECTIONAL AND/OR INFORMATIONAL SIGNS 17.19.180 SPECIAL-PURPOSE SIGNS 17.19.190 TEMPORARY SUBDIVISION SALES, ENTRY AND SPECIAL - FEATURE SIGNS 17.19.200 PROHIBITED SIGNAGE 17.19.210 OFF-SITE ADVERTISING SIGNS 17.19.220 PERMIT NUMBER REQUIRED 17.19.230 UNIFIED DESIGN THEMES 17.19.240 SIGN REGULATIONS MATRIX 17.19.250 ILLUSTRATION OF SIGN TYPES 17.19.010 PURPOSE It is the purpose of this section to establish a comprehensive system for the regulation of on-site and off- site signs within the City and thereby make Santa Clarita attractive to residents, visitors, commercial, industrial and professional businesses while maintaining economic stability through an attractive sign program. All signs in every zone shall be subject to the regulations herein. 17.19.011 DEFINITIONS Words, phrases, and terms used in this Development Code have the meaning assigned to them by this section.. When not inconsistent with the context, words used in the present tense include the future; words in the singular number include the plural; and those in the plural number include the singular. The word "shall" is mandatory; the word "may" is permissive. SIGN shall mean and include any message, declaration, demonstration, name, figure, character, outline, spectacle, display delineation, announcement, advertising, billboard, signboard, device, appliance, sign, illustration, insignia, advertising statuary, surface or space, including the supporting structure and component parts, erected or maintained for attraction of, attention to, identification of or advertisement of a business, profession, product or service or any other thing of similar nature to attract attention outdoors or on the face, wall or window of any building. SIGN AREA shall mean the entire surface area, excluding all support structures, of a sign. SIGN, AUTOMOTIVE - ORIENTED shall mean a sign that is primarily representing a business devoted to automotive sales and/or service. SIGN, AWNING OR ENTRANCE CANOPY shall mean any sign affixed to an awning or removable canopy not permanently attached to or built as part of a building. Such signs shall be considered the same as a projecting sign for purposes of regulation. SIGN, BUILDING IDENTIFICATION shall mean a sign which contains no advertising matter other than the name and/or trademark and/or address of the building to which it is affixed or of the occupant located therein. SIGN, BULLETIN shall mean a changeable copy sign on which bulletins, notices, messages, or displays are placed. SIGN, BUSINESS shall mean a sign which is used to identify or advertise the occupant of a commercial or industrial business on said premises. SIGN, CHANGEABLE COPY shall mean a sign which is characterized by changeable copy, letters symbols, or numerals. SIGN, CIVIC ORGANIZATION shall mean a sign which contains the names of, or any other information regarding civic, fraternal or religious organization located the city, but which contains no other advertising matter. JMIMA UNIFY1 IDENTIFICATION sMEMMMMEMMMhall mean a si which contains the name of a-e� and/or but which contains no other advertising matter. SIGN, CONSTRUCTION shall mean a temporary sign denoting the architects, engineers, owners lenders contractors, future tenants and other associated with a construction project, but which contains no other advertising matter. SIGN, DIRECTIONAL AND/OR INFORMATIONAL shall mean a sign which indicates the route to, direction of or location of a given goal, or which provides regulatory or service information of a non -advertising character. SIGN, FACE shall mean that portion of a sign intended to be viewed from one direction at a time. SIGN, FLASHING OR SCINTILLATING means any sign which, by method or manner of illumination, flashes, winks or blinks with varying light intensity, shows motion, or creates the illusion of motion; or revolves in a manner to create the illusion of being on or off. SIGN, FREESTANDING shall mean a sign which is placed on the ground or has as its primary structural support one or more columns, poles, uprights or braces in or upon the ground and not attached to a building. SIGN, FREEWAY ORIENTED shall mean a sign oriented to be viewed primarily from an adjacent freeway which identifies a business engaged in the provision of food, lodging or motor vehicle fuel, and which is primarily dependent upon said freeway. SIGN, FUEL PRICING shall mean a sign indicating, and limited to, the brand or trade name, method of sale, grade designation and price per gallon of gasoline or other motor vehicle fuel offered for sale on the business premises, and such other information as may be required by law. SIGN, INCIDENTAL BUSINESS shall mean a business sign indicating credit cards accepted, trading stamps offered, trade affiliations, and similar matter. SIGN, LIGHTED shall mean a sign which is illuminated by any source, whether internal, external or indirect. SIGN, MARQUEE shall mean any sign affixed to the perimeter or border of a permanently roofed structure constructed as art of a buildin and rotrudin over ublic or rivate sidewalks or rights-of-way. Such signs shall be considered wall signs for the purpose of regulation. SIGN, MONUMENT shall mean a sign which is completely self-supporting, has its sign face or base on the ground and has no air space, columns or supports visible between the ground and the bottom of the sign. SIGN, OUTDOOR ADVERTISING shall mean any sign directing public attention to a business, profession, product or service that is not a primary business, profession, product or service which is sold, manufactured, conducted or offered on the premises where such sign is erected or maintained. Outdoor advertising signs shall include billboards but not public transportation signs. SIGN, PORTABLE shall mean a freestanding sign which is not permanently affixed, anchored or secured to either the ground or a structure on the premises it is intended to occupy. SIGN, PROJECTING shall mean a sign, other than a wall sign, which projects more than 18 inches from and is supported by an exterior wall of a building or structure. SIGN, PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION shall mean any incidental sign that is placed on a structure, either a portable bench or shelter, located on a public alley, road, street, parkway or highway, if the purpose of the structure is to facilitate the use of public transportation and promote the safety, comfort and convenience of public transit patrons. SIGN, PYLON shall mean a MOM signINEWERRIMMM in which the sign face is separated from ground level by means of one or more supports such as polessEm or columns. SIGN, REAL ESTATE shall mean a temporary sign advertising the sale, lease or rental of the premises on which the sign is located. SIGN, REVOLVING shall mean a sign or any portion thereof which rotates, moves or appears to move in some manner by electrical or other means. SIGN, ROOF shall mean any sign erected upon and wholly supported by the roof of any building or structure. Roof sign shall not include a wall sign affixed to the roof eaves or that portion of an actual or false roof varying less than 45 degrees from a vertical plane. SIGN, SPECIAL EVENT shall mean a temporary sign publicizing a unique happening, action, purpose or occasion. SIGN STRUCTURE shall mean a structure serving exclusively as a stand, frame or background for the support or display of signs. SIGN, SUBDIVISION ENTRY shall mean a directions to and within a subdivision offered contains no other advertising matter. temporary sign which provides necessary travel for sale or lease for the first time, but which SIGN, SUBDIVISION SALES shall mean a temporary sign which contains the name of, and information relating to, a subdivision being offered for sale or lease for the fust time. SIGN, TEMPORARY WINDOW shall mean any sign painted on a window, or constructed of paper, cloth, canvas or other similar lightweight material, with or without frames, and affixed to the interior side of a window and displayed so as to call to the attention of persons outside the building a sale of merchandise or a change in the status of a business. SIGN, UNDER -MARQUEE shall mean any sign suspended from the underside of a permanently roofed structure constructed as part of a building and protruding over private sidewalks or rights-of-way. SIGN, WALL OR WALL -MOUNTED shall mean a sign, other than a roof sign, affixed to and wholly supported by a building in such a manner that its exposed face is approximately parallel to the plane of said building and is not projecting more than 18 inches from the building face or from a permanent roofed structure projecting therefrom. SIGN, PAINTED shall mean a sign that is painted directly on a wall or other vertical, or non - horizontal surface, and does not project from the surface to which it is applied. 0 17.19.020 EXEMPTIONS The provisions of Chapter 17.19 shall not apply to the following signs except as otherwise indicated herein: A. Official notices issued by any court, public body or public officer; B. Notices posted by any public officer in performance of a public duty, or for any person in giving legal notice; C. Traffic, directional, warning or informational signs required or authorized by the public authority having jurisdiction; 7 D. Official signs used for emergency purposes only; E. Permanent memorial or historical signs, plaques or markers; and F. Public utility signs. 17.19.030 GENERAL REGULATIONS The following regulations apply to all signs in any zone: A. In no case shall a lighted sign or lighting device thereof be so placed or directed so as to permit the beams and illumination therefrom to be directed or beamed upon a public street, highway, sidewalk or adjacent premises so as to cause glare or reflection that may constitute a traffic hazard or nuisance. B. Signs, except outdoor advertising signs, may be single-, double- or multi -faced. C. Any sign which was erected for an occupant or business unrelated to the present occupant or business, or any sign which pertains to a time, event or purpose which no longer exists, shall be removed within 90 days after the purpose for or use utilizing such sign has been removed from such property. D Visible, exposed backs of all signs shall be suitably covered, finished, and properly maintained. E. All signs shall be maintained in good repair, including display surfaces, which shall be kept neatly painted or posted. Copy on all signs shall be kept clean and orderly, and free from any flagging, chipping or peeling. F. Any sign, which does not conform to the provisions of this Section shall be made to conform or shall be removed as provided in this Code or as otherwise allowed by law. G. Except where otherwise specifically provided by this title, sign regulations established pursuant to this Section shall not apply to signs within a building, arcade, court or other similarly enclosed area where such signs are not visible to the public without entering such facilities. H. The height of all signs shall be measured from the highest point of the sign 17.19.040 SURFACE AREA - COMPUTATION The surface area of any sign face shall be computed from the smallest rectangles, circles and/or triangles which will enclose all words, letters, figures, symbols, designs and pictures, together with all framing, background material, colored or illuminated areas, and attention - attracting devices forming an integral part of the overall display, but excluding all support structures, except that: A. Superficial ornamentation and/or symbol -type appendages of a non -message -bearing character which do not exceed five percent of the surface area shall be exempted from computation; 0 B. Wall signs painted on or affixed directly to a building wall, facade or roof, and having no discernible boundary, shall have the areas between letters, words intended to be read together, and any device intended to draw attention to the sign message included in any computation of surface area (Pursuant to Section 17.19.200.M, Wall Painted Signs can only be permitted by special approval of the Director of Planning & Building Services); C. Signs placed in such a manner, or bearing a text, as to require dependence upon each other in order to convey meaning shall be considered one sign and the intervening areas between signs included in any computation of surface area; and D. Spherical; cylindrical or other three-dimensional signs not having conventional sign faces shall be computed from the smallest three-dimensional geometrical shape or shapes which will best approximate the actual surface area of said faces. 17.19.050 OUTDOOR ADVERTISING SIGNS - CONDITIONS Outdoor advertising signs may be erected or maintained in C or I zones where a parcel of real property or some portion thereof within such zone has been designated as a Billboard Overlay Zone pursuant to this Code. All outdoor advertising signs (referred to in this section as "signs") shall be subject to the following conditions: A. A sign shall not be erected or maintained without a conditional use permit obtained pursuant to this Code. 1. A conditional use permit for the erection of a sign may be approved for a limited term of not less than five years. If such a condition is imposed, the applicant shall enter an agreement by which the applicant agrees to: (a) remove the sign at the expiration of the permit; (b) grant to the City a right of entry for the purpose of removing the sign at expiration if the applicant fails to remove it; and (c) post a cash bond with the City equal to the estimated cost of removal, to be used by the City for removal at expiration if the applicant fails to remove it; 2. Conditions of approval for the erection or maintenance of a sign on a vacant lot may include, but are not limited to, the applicant's installation of appropriate sidewalks, landscaping, and irrigation; B. The total sign face shall not exceed 300 square feet; C. The height shall not exceed 35 feet measured from the ground level at the base of the sign. Each sign shall allow for a minimum of 8 feet clearance between the ground level and the structural portion of the sign designed to contain the advertising display; D. Signs shall not be erected or maintained within a 1,000 foot radius of any other outdoor advertising sign or within a 1,000 foot radius of any residential zone; E. Signs shall not be permitted having a message face visible from and within a distance of 1,000 feet of the edge of right-of-way of a freeway or scenic highway, measured horizontally along a line normal or perpendicular to the centerline of such freeway or scenic highway, if designed to be viewed partially or primarily by persons traveling thereon; F. Signs shall not be permitted on a roof, and none of the length of the structure of a freestanding sign shall extend over a roof; G. Signs shall not encroach over public rights-of-way; H. Signs may only have a single face for the display of copy, and shall have no moving lights, moving parts, tri -vision or reader boards. No additional face may be added to an existing sign. No sign shall be illuminated so that it is visible at night; Signs shall only be erected on a single post, which shall not exceed 18 inches in diameter. No wooden post supporting any sign may be converted to a more durable material. All surfaces shall be covered with no exposed structural material. All backs of signs shall be covered, as shall all parts of a sign's superstructure; J. All provisions of the City's building Code shall be applicable to signs. If any utility lines are required for the sign, such lines shall be underground; K. Signs shall meet all setback and other requirements of the zone in which they are located, and shall not be erected or maintained within any required landscaping or parking area. In no case may a sign be placed closer to a street than that portion of any structure, existing on the same legal parcel, which is closest to that street; L. Any sign which does not display copy for a continuous 30 -day period shall be deemed abandoned and shall be removed; M. No sign shall be constructed on or within three feet of the wall of any structure; N. No non -conforming sign may be structurally upgraded in any manner which would increase the size of the sign, its useful life or its fair market value; and O. Non -conforming signs damaged by natural causes may be repaired to their previous, undamaged condition.. However, no such repair may be undertaken where the cost of repair exceed 25% of the sign's fair market value of the physical structure of the sign before the damage without a conditional use permit first being obtained pursuant to this Code. 17.19.060 COMMERCIAL HANDBILLS A. The following regulations shall apply to the distribution and circulation of commercial handbills within the City: 1. Name of Distributor. No persons shall circulate or distribute, or cause to be circulated or distributed, any commercial handbill within the City unless it bears conspicuously thereon the name, address, and telephone number of the distributor or other person responsible for the distribution; 2. Consent of Distribution. No persons shall circulate, distribute, or cause to be circulated or distributed, any commercial handbill on any property within the City without the consent of the owner or occupant of the property. For the purpose of this section, the consent of the owner or occupant of the property shall 10 be presumed unless the owner or occupant has conspicuously posted upon the property a sign or other device which contains language which prohibits handbill delivery in or upon the premises; 3. Distribution on Public Property. No persons shall distribute or circulate, or cause to be circulated or distributed, any commercial handbill in and along any street, alley or other public place within the City; 4. Distribution on Motor Vehicles. No persons shall circulate or distribute, or cause to be circulated or distributed, any commercial handbill by placing it in or upon any motor vehicle, as that phrase is defined in the Vehicle Code of the State of California, which is parked upon any public street, alley or public parking area, or upon any such vehicle parked upon any private property; 5. Distribution on Private Property. The delivery of commercial handbills on private property shall be accomplished by personally delivering the handbill to the person occupying the residential property, or by placing the handbill upon the property securely, to ensure that the handbill will not be blown from the property on to other lots or public places; and 6. Hours of Distribution. No person shall distribute or circulate, or cause to be distributed or circulated, any commercial handbill between the hours of 8:00 p.m. of any day and 8:00 a.m. of the following day. B. Violation and Penalty. Any person, firm, or corporation violating any of the provisions of this Section is guilty of an infraction, which is punishable by: 1. A fine not exceeding $50.00 for a first violation; 2. A fine not exceeding $100.00 for a second violation within one year; or A fine not exceeding $250.00 for each additional violation within one year. 17.19.070 BUSINESS SIGNS IN THE OPEN SPACE ZONE Business signs are permitted in the OS Zone subject to the following restrictions: A. Sign Area Permitted. In the OS Zone one business sign, not to exceed 12 square feet in sign area, shall be permitted per lot or parcel of land. B. Height Permitted. 1. Freestanding, monument type signs shall not exceed three feet in height, measured vertically from ground level at the base of the sign. 2. Pylon signs shall not exceed a maximum of 15 feet in height, measured vertically from ground level at the base of the sign. Wall business signs shall not extend above the lowest point of a roof or highest point of a parapet wall. 11 C. Location of Signs Business signs shall not: 1. Be placed on any property nearer than 25 feet to a lot line, other than one adjoining a street or highway; or 2. Be placed within a required front or corner side yard nearer than 10 feet to the highway line or the adjacent street, highway or parkway. D. Projection Permitted. 1. Wall business signs shall not project more than 18 inches from the building to which they are attached; and 2. Business signs which project over public rights-of-way are subject to the requirements of the Building Code, set out in Title 23 of this Code. E. Movement. Signs shall not rotate, move or simulate motion in any way. F. Lighting. Signs may be internally or externally lighted, subject to the following: 1. In the OS Zone no exposed incandescent lamp used shall exceed a rated wattage of 25 watts; and 2. Any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited. 17.19.080 BUSINESS SIGNS IN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES. Business signs are permitted in C and I zones subject to the restrictions set out in Sections 17.19.090 through 17.19.240. 17.19.090 WALL BUSINESS SIGNS This section shall govern all wall signs as defined in this Code and shall apply in all commercial and industrial zones. A. Sign Area Permitted. Each ground -floor business establishment fronting on and/or oriented toward one or more public street, highway, parkway, including but not limited to, parking lot, alley, open mall, trail, landscaped open space, or other access point shall be permitted a maximum of n^ _ - a a ••. — _ r . efte , ifteaf . .... - s 1.5 square feet of wall sign area for each one linear foot of building frontage. This applies to all faces of a building with the above referenced frontage and each frontage shall be computed separately. 2. A ground -floor business establishment having entrances intended for and regularly utilized by the public on the side (including rear) of a building not considered building frontage as defined by this Code, shall be permitted one wall sign on each such side (including rear), provided said sign does not exceed one- half the sign area permitted on the side (including rear) frontage of the business. 12 3. Any building containing business establishments, which front only on an interior mall having a limited number of entrances, shall be considered a single establishment for the purpose of computing the wall sign area permitted on the exterior walls of such building. 4. In the event a side (including rear) wall sign is permitted pursuant to section A.2 above, the sign area for such building (including signs on frontage walls and side walls), shall not exceed a maximum sign area permitted by sections A.1 and A.2 above. 5. Each ground -floor business establishment, not covered by paragraph A.1 above, and except as limited by paragraph AA above, shall be permitted a maximum sign area of 10 square feet for each building frontage. 6. Each business establishment located on a second floor and facing the street or highway shall be ermitted a maximum of 10 s uaze feet of si area as a wall business sign. In all listed zones, each business establishment located on the ground, or second floor having no building frontage, shall be permitted a maximum of one square foot of sign area facing the street or highway. 8. All business wall signs shall be placed on the business frontage/s as defined by this code. B. Steen Sloping Roofs. That portion of any actual or false roof varying 45 degrees or less from a vertical plane may be considered an extension of the building wall for the purpose of wall business -sign placement. C. Height Permitted. Wail business signs shall not extend above the highest point, exclusive of any roof structures, of the roof or parapet. D. Lighting Wall business signs may be internally or externally lighted. E. Dimensions. The maximum vertical dimensions of a wall sign box and/or the sign copy shall not exceed two feet, except that the Director may approve taller vertical dimensions for signs located on buildings occupied by large I sinIgoe tenant occupancies and/or for initial ca ital letters or to os If a Sign Review is first submitted and approved by the Director, as provided in this Code, signs greater than a two -foot vertical dimension may be permitted subject to the Director's review and approval of the sign. 17.19.100 MONUMENT SIGNS Monument signs shall be permitted in commercial and industrial zones subject to the following: 13 A. Number and Frontage. 1. Only one monument sign may be permitted on any lot or parcel of land having a minimum of 100 feet of continuous street or highway frontage. For the purposes of calculating frontage on a corner lot, frontage shall include the total linear distance of said lot of each of the streets. 2. Notwithstanding paragraph A.1 above, in the event any building has continuous street or highway frontage exceeding 100 feet, one additional monument sign shall be permitted for each 400 feet which exceeds said continuous frontage of 100 feet. In no event, however, shall a monument sign be located closer than 250, feet from any other monument or freestanding sign on the same property or center. 3. The intent of this ordinance is to reduce the number, and hence the competitive clutter of numerous freestanding pylon signs within the City. To implement that intent, no parcel of land whereon there exists a nonconforming freestanding pylon sign(s) as of the effective date of this ordinance, shall be allowed a monument sign unless at least one existing nonconforming pylon sign or billboard of equal or greater sign area is first removed. B. Sign Area. A maximum of 54 square feet per sign face, including the base, shall be permitted except that the Director may approve a larger sign area for larger centers or where visibility constraints justify monument signage as opposed to pylon signage. All monument signs shall clearly show the property address with letter sizes not to exceed eight inches in height. Such address area shall be excluded from the total area of the monument sign. A monument sign shall have no more than two sign faces. C. Sign Height. The maximum height of a monument sign shall be six feet; however, a maximum height of eight feet may be permitted for monument signs for centers containing five acres or more of land area, subject to the Director's review and approval. Such height shall be measured from the elevation of the top of the curb fronting such sign when within 10 feet of a street property line. When such sign is set back from a property line more than 10 feet, sign height shall be measured from the elevation of the ground level surrounding the base of the sign. D. Location of Monument Signs Monument signs shall be set back a minimum of one foot from any ultimate street or public right-of-way. The area between such street or right-of-way and the monument sign shall be attractively landscaped and maintained to enhance the appearance of such sign. 2. In no case shall a monument sign be placed within a clear site line setback zone defined as eight feet from the public right-of-way line at the centerline of the driveway diminishing to one foot from the public right-of-way line measured 50 feet from center line of the driveway. 3. No monument sign shall be located in such a manner as to impede traffic sight visibility as determined by the Director. 14 E. Lighting. Monument signs may be internally or externally lighted, but may not cause excessive glare to the detriment of traffic safety as determined by the Director. 17.19.110 PYLON SIGNS In lieu of a monument sign as permitted in Section 17.19.110, pylon signs shall be permitted in C and I zones subject to the following: A. Number, Frontage and Property Area Q C. In E. 1. A maximum of one pylon sign per parcel of land ENEEM minimum of three acres and 500 feet of street frontaae shalt hp nrrm For the purposes of calculating frontage on a corner lot, frontage shall include the total linear distance of said lot of each of the streets. 2. The intent of this ordinance is to reduce the number, and hence the competitive clutter of numerous and excessively tall freestanding pylon signs within the City. To implement that intent, no parcel of land whereon there exists a nonconforming freestanding pylon sign(s) shall be allowed another freestanding pylon sign as of the effective date of this ordinance, unless all existing nonconforming pylon signs or billboards are first removed. aiggArea. A maximum of 40 square feet per siert face shall be A pylon sign shall have no more than two sign faces. Height. The maximum height of a pylon sign shall be 15 feet as measured from the level su ffe., '' , hnqp, F thp M Location of Pylon Signs 1. Pylon signs shall be set back a minimum of three feet from any street or public right-of-way. The area between such street or right-of-way and around the base of the pylon sign shall be attractively landscaped and maintained to enhance the appearance of such sign. 2. No pylea sign shaR be leeated elesef than 15 feet from the intefseefien-efmy driveway anitbli N F h . Y mac —No pylon sign shall be located in such a manner as to impede traffic and sight visibility as determined by the Director. Lighting, Pylon signs may be internally or externally lighted, but may not cause excessive glare to the detriment of traffic safety as determined by the Director. 15 17.19.120 INCIDENTAL BUSINESS SIGNS A. Each business establishment may be permitted an incidental business sign provided: That such sign is a wall mounted sign; and 2. That such sign does not exceed two square feet in sign area. B. This provision shall not be interpreted to prohibit the use of similar signs of a larger size or in greater numbers where otherwise permitted by this Code and computed as part of the sign area permitted for business signs as provided in Sections 17.19. 100 through 17.19.240. 17.19.130 TEMPORARY WINDOW SIGNS Each business establishment shall be permitted temporary window signs, provided that such signs do not exceed 25% of the area of any single window or of adjoining windows on the same frontage. This provision is not intended to restrict signs utilized as part of a window display of merchandise when such signs are incorporated within such display. 17.19.140 BUILDING IDENTIFICATION SIGNS Building identification signs are permitted in all zones subject to the following restrictions: A. Area Permitted. 1. In RE, RVL, RL, RS and OS zones one wall -mounted sign, not to exceed one square foot in sign area, shall be permitted per principal use. 2. In RM,,RMH and RH Zones one wall -mounted sign, not to exceed six square feet in sign area, shall be permitted per principal use. In C and I zones one wall -mounted sign shall be permitted per principal use, provided: (a) Such sign does not exceed six square feet in sign area where located less than 30 feet above ground level, measured at the base of the building below said sign; or (b) Such sign does not exceed two percent of the exterior wall area of the building wall on which it is mounted, excluding penthouse walls, where located more than 30 feet above ground level measured at the base of the building below said sign. 4. This provision shall not be interpreted to prohibit the use of similar signs of a larger size or in greater number where otherwise permitted by this Code and computed as part of the sign area permitted for business signs as provided in Sections 17.19.090 through 17.19.240. Wi B. Height Permitted. Such signs shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof. C. Lighting. Such signs may be internally or externally lighted, subject to the following: 1. Any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited; 2. In R and OS zones no exposed incandescent lamp used shall exceed a rated wattage of 25 watts; and 3. In the OS Zone exposed lamps or light bulbs are prohibited. 17.19.150 TEMPORARY REAL ESTATE SIGNS Temporary real estate signs are permitted in all zones subject to the following restrictions: A. Area Permitted. 1. In A, R and OS zones one wall mounted or freestanding real estate sign shall be permitted for each street or highway frontage, provided: a. That such sign does not exceed six square feet in sign area or 12 square feet in sign area on any street or highway frontage of 100 feet or less; and b. That such sign does not exceed 32 feet in sign area or 64 square feet in sign area on any lot or parcel of land having a street or highway frontage greater than 100 feet. 2. In RM, RMH and RH Zones one wall mounted or freestanding real estate sign shall be permitted for each street or highway frontage, provided: a. That such sign does not exceed 12 square feet in sign area where or 24 square feet in sign area on any frontage of 100 feet or less; and b. That such sign does not exceed 32 feet in sign area or 64 square feet in sign area on any lot or parcel of land having a street or highway frontage greater than 100 feet. 3. In the C and I zones one wall -mounted or freestanding real estate sign shall be permitted for each street or highway frontage, provided: a. That such sign does not exceed 48 square feet in sign area or 96 square feet in sign area on any frontage of 100 feet or less; and b. That such sign does not exceed 48 square feet in sign area plus an additional one- half square foot in sign area for each one foot of street or highway frontage in excess of 100 feet, to a maximum sign area of 100 square feet or an amount equal to twice the permitted sign area in sign area. 17 B. Height Permitted. 1. Wall -mounted real estate signs shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof. 2. Freestanding real estate signs shall not exceed the following heights: a. In the R and OS zones eight feet measured vertically from ground level at the base of the sign; and b. In the C and I zones 15 feet measured vertically from ground level at the base of the sign. C. Location of Signs. 1. Freestanding real estate signs may be placed in required front yards, provided such signs are located not less than 10 feet from the highway line. 2. Freestanding real estate signs shall not be placed nearer to a lot line, other than one adjoining a street or highway, than 10 feet. D. Lighting. 1. Signs in the R and OS zones shall not be lighted. 2. Signs in C and I zones may be internally or externally lighted, but any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited. E. Time Limit. All real estate signs shall be removed from the premises within 30 days after the property has been rented, leased or sold. 17.19.160 TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION SIGNS Temporary construction signs are permitted in all zones, subject to the following provisions: A. Area Permitted. 1. In R and OS zones one wall -mounted or freestanding construction sign shall be permitted for each street or highway frontage, provided: a. That such sign does not exceed six square feet in sign area or 12 square feet in sign area on any street or highway frontage of 100 feet or less; and b. That such sign does not exceed six square feet in sign area or 64 square feet in sign area on any lot or parcel of land having a street or highway frontage greater than 100 feet. M 2. In C and I zones one wall -mounted or freestanding construction sign shall be permitted for each street or highway frontage, provided: a. That such sign does not exceed 48 square feet in sign area or 96 square feet in sign area on any frontage of 100 feet or less; and b. That such sign does not exceed 48 square feet in sign area plus an additional one-half square foot in sign area for each one foot of street or highway frontage in excess of 100 feet to a maximum sign area of 100 square feet or an amount equal to twice the permitted sign area in sign area. B. Height Permitted. 1. Wall -mounted construction signs shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof. 2. Freestanding construction signs shall not exceed the following heights: a. In the R and OS zones, eight feet measured vertically from the base of the sign; and b. In the C and I zones, 16 feet measured vertically from the base of the sign. C. Location of Signs. Construction signs shall be maintained only upon the site of the building or structure under construction, alteration or in process of removal. D. Lighting. 1. Construction signs in the A, R and OS zones shall be unlighted. 2. Construction signs in C and I zones may be internally or externally lighted, but any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited. E. Time Limit. All construction signs shall be removed from the premises within 30 days after the completion of construction, alteration or removal of the structure. 17.19.170 DIRECTIONAL AND/OR INFORMATIONAL SIGNS Freestanding or wall -mounted directional and/or informational signs are permitted in all zones subject to the following restrictions: A. Director's Review. In the OS Zones site plans shall be submitted to and approved by the Director, as provided in this Code, prior to the placement of directional and/or informational signs. In addition to the findingsrequired by this Code, approval of such signs shall be contingent upon the additional finding that the geographic location of, or access route to the use identified creates a need for directional and/or informational signs not satisfied by other signs permitted by this section. 1S B. Area Permitted. Directional and/or informational signs shall not exceed 12 square feet in sign area or 24 square feet in sign area. C. Height Permitted. Wall -mounted directional and/or informational signs shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof. 2. Freestanding directional and/or informational signs shall not exceed the following heights: a. In the OS Zones, six feet measured vertically from the base of the sign; and b. In all other permitted zones, 12 feet measured vertically from the base of the sign. D. Location of Signs 1. In the OS Zones directional and/or informational signs may be located onsite and off-site, provided that where located within a front or corner side yard, such sign shall not be nearer than 10 feet to any street or highway upon which the property fronts; and 2• In all other permitted zones such signs shall be located on-site. E. Lighting. Directional and/or informational signs may be internally or externally lighted, provided: 1. That any continuous or sequential flashing operation in prohibited; and 2. That in the OS Zones, no exposed incandescent lamp used shall exceed a rated wattage of 25 watts; 17.19.180 SPECIAL-PURPOSE SIGNS The following special-purpose signs are permitted as provided in this section. A. Community Identification Signs Freestanding communit identification si s are ermitted in any zone at or near the entrance to , pursuant to the approval of a Sign Review and subject to the following restrictions: 1. Area Permitted.Suelrs}gns shall not exceed 96 square feet in sign area or 192 square feet in sign area 2. Height Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed 15 feet in height, measured vertically from the base of the sign. 3. Lighting. Such signs may be internally or externally lighted, but any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited. EM B. Civic Organization Signs. Freestanding civic organization signs are permitted in any zone at or near the entrance to an unincorporated community or city of the county, pursuant to the approval of the Director of Planning and Building Services and the following provisions: 1. Area Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed 50 square feet sign area or 100 square feet in sign area. 2. Height Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed 15 feet in height, measured vertically from the base of the sign. 3. Lighting Such signs shall be unlighted. 4. Design. Such signs shall be architecturally related to the area in which they are located. C. Bulletin or Special -event Signs One freestanding or wall -mounted bulletin or special - event sign may be erected and maintained on each lot or parcel of land in any zone associated with a publicly owned, charitable, religious or educational institution, pursuant to the approval of the Director of Planning and Building Services and the following restrictions: Area Permitted. Such sign shall not exceed 50 square feet in sign area or 100 square feet in sign area. 2. Height Permitted. a. A wall -mounted sign shall not extend above the highest point of a parapet wall or the lowest point of a sloping roof. b. A freestanding sign shall not exceed 15 feet in height, measured vertically from the base of the sign. 3. Location of Sign A freestanding sign shall not be located nearer than 25 feet to a lot line which does not adjoin a street or highway. 4. Lighting. Such sign may be internally or externally lighted, provided that no exposed incandescent lamp used shall exceed a rated wattage of 25 watts in any residential or agricultural zone, and that any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited in all zones. 5. Design. Such sign shall be architecturally related to the structure to which it is appurtenant. D. Fuel Pricing Signs. Fuel pricing signs are permitted for each business offering gasoline or other motor vehicle fuel for sale, subject to the following restrictions: 21 Tunes of Signs. Such signs shall be separate freestanding signs, panels mounted to freestanding sign structures, or combined freestanding business and fuel pricing signs. 2. Area Permitted. a. One sign, not to exceed 30 square feet in sign area or 60 square feet in sign area, shall be permitted for each street or highway frontage. b. If said business is located on a comer, one sign, not to exceed 30 square feet in sign area or 120 square feet in sign area, shall be permitted at the corer in lieu of separate signs on each of the intersecting frontages. C. The area per sign face of a combined freestanding business sign and fuel pricing sign shall not exceed the sum of the permitted area per sign face of the two merging signs, nor shall the business portion of said sign exceed the area per sign face that would be permitted a business sign were it erected separately. 3. Height Permitted a. No separate freestanding sign shall exceed 15 feet in height at a comer of five feet in height elsewhere. Such height shall be measured vertically from the base of the sign. b. No combined business and fuel pricing sign, or no business sign to which fuel pricing panels are mounted, shall exceed the maximum permitted height of a pylon sign as established in Section 17.19.110. 4. Location of Sin. No separate freestanding sign shall be located nearer to an existing freestanding sign or to a lot line, other than one adjoining a street or highway, than 25 feet. 5. Lighting. Such signs may be internally or externally lighted. E. Public Transportation Sim Public transportation signs are permitted in any zone, pursuant to the approval of the Director of Planning and Building Services and the following conditions: 1. Area Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed 24 square feet in sign area or 48 square feet in sign area. 2. Height Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed seven feet in height, measured vertically from the ground directly below the sign. 3. Lighting. Such signs may be internally or externally lighted, provided that no exposed incandescent lamp used shall exceed a rated wattage of 25 watts in any residential or agricultural zone, and that any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited in all zones. 22 4. Design. Such signs shall be approved by the Director of Planning and Building Services. Location. No more than two such signs shall be placed at one location and shall not be erected or maintained within 100 feet of any other such sign or signs located on the same side of the street or highway. The location of all such signs shall be approved by the Director of Planning and Building Services, who shall ensure that their placement will not impair the safety or visibility of motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians and others using public streets and highways. F. Freestanding Pylon Signs - Freeway and/or Automotive Oriented Freestanding pylon signs may be permitted for freeway and/or automotive oriented uses pursuant to the approval of the Director of Planning and Building Services. G. Murals — Murals, which are purely scenic in nature and do not advertise the activities going on inside the building shall be permitted subject to the approval of the Director of Planning and Building Services. Murals that give an indication as to the activities going on inside the building shall be considered signage and, thus, prohibited. 91 23 B 1 • 0 W' 0 B 17.19.190 ON-SITE TEMPORARY SUBDIVISION SALES, ENTRY AND SPECIAL -FEATURE SIGNS Temporary subdivision sales and related entry and special -feature signs are permitted in all zones subject to the following conditions: A. Subdivision Sales Sims Area Permitted. One freestanding subdivision sales sign shall be permitted for each street or highway bordering the tract, provided: a. That such sign does not exceed 32 square feet in sign area or 64 square feet in sign area where such tract contains 10 lots or less; b. That such sign does not exceed 64 square feet in sign area or 128 square feet in area where such tract contains 11 to 19 lots; and C. That such sign does not exceed 96 square feet in sign area plus an additional one-half square foot in sign area for each one foot of street or highway frontage in excess of 500 feet, to a maximum sign area of 180 square feet, or an amount equal to twice the permitted sign area in sign area, where such tract contains more than 20 lots. 2. Height Permitted. a. Subdivision sales signs shall not exceed the following heights: 1. Eight feet, measured vertically from ground level at the base of the sign where such sign has a sign area of 64 square feet or less; and 2. 16 feet, measured vertically from the base of the sign where such sign in 65 square feet or greater in sign area. 25 b. Where a wall is required as a condition of approval along the street or highway frontage for which such sign is permitted, the Director may modify this requirement pursuant to the provisions of this section. 3. Location of Signs All subdivision sales signs shall be located on the subdivision and shall be oriented to read from the street or highway for which said sign is permitted. 4. Lighting. Subdivision sales signs may be internally or externally lighted, but any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited. S. Time Limit. Subdivision sales signs shall be maintained only until all the property is disposed of, or for a period of three years from the date of issuance of the first building permit for the subdivision, whichever should occur first. Any structure used for such purpose shall, at the end of such three-year period, be either removed or restored for a use permitted in the zone where located, except that the Director may, upon showing of need by the owner of the property, extend the permitted time beyond three years. 6. Text. All text on such signs shall relate exclusively to the subdivision being offered for sale or lease. B. Subdivision Entry and Special -Feature Signs. Director's Review. If a site plan is fust submitted to and approved by the Director, as provided in this Code, the following related signs may be permitted in any subdivision qualifying for subdivision sales signs: a. Subdivision entry signs as are necessary to facilitate entry into and movement within the subdivision; and b. Subdivision special -feature signs located in the immediate vicinity of an approved model home and temporary real estate tract office. 2. Area Permitted. a. Subdivision entry signs shall not exceed 12 feet in sign area or 24 square feet in sign area. b. Special -feature signs shall not exceed six square feet in sign area or 12 square feet in sign area. 3. Height Permitted. Subdivision entry and special -feature signs shall not exceed eight feet in height, measured from the base of the sign. 4. Li htin . Subdivision entry and special -feature signs shall be unlighted. Location of Signs. Subdivision entry and special -feature signs shall be located on said subdivision. 26 6. Time Limit. Subdivision entry and special -feature signs shall have the same time limit as subdivision sales signs approved for the same tract and shall be removed at the end of such period. C. "Subdivision," as it applies to this section, shall include contiguous units having separate recorded tract numbers developed by the same person. 17.19.200 PROHIBITED SIGNAGE The following signs shall be prohibited in all zones: A. Signs which contain or utilize: 1. Any exposed incandescent lamp with a rated wattage in excess of 40 watts; 2. Any exposed incandescent lamp with an external metallic reflector; 3. Any exposed incandescent lamp with an external metallic reflector; 4. Any revolving beacon light; 5. Any continuous or sequential flashing operation, other than signs displaying time of day or atmospheric temperature; 6. Any system for display of time of day, atmospheric temperature or programmable electronic messages in which: a. The proposed display has any illumination which is in continuous motion or which appears to be continuous motion; b. The message is changed at a rate faster than one message every four seconds; C. The interval between messages is less than one second; d. The intensity of illumination changes; or e. The display is located less than 100 feet on the same side of the street or highway from residentially or agriculturally zoned property; B. Revolving signs, all or any portion of which rotate; C. Signs advertising or displaying any unlawful act, business or purpose; D. Devices dispensing bubbles and free-floating particles of matter; E. Any notice, placard, bill, card, poster, sticker, sign, advertising or other device calculated to attract the attention of the public which any person posts, prints, sticks, stamps, tacks or otherwise affixes, or causes the same to be done to or upon any street, right-of-way, 27 public sidewalk, crosswalk, curb, hydrant, tree, telephone pole, or upon any fixture of the police or fire alarm system of the City, with the exception of public transportation signs specifically permitted by this section; F. Any strings of pennants, or streamers, clusters of flags, strings of twirlers or propellers, flares, balloons, and similar attention -getting devices, including noise -emitting devices, with the exception of the following: 1. National, state, local governmental, institutional or corporate flags, properly displayed. 2. Holiday decorations, in season, used for an aggregate period of 60 days in any one calendar year; G. Devices projecting or otherwise reproducing the image of a sign or message on any surface or object; H. Signs emitting or amplifying sounds for the purpose of attracting attention; Portable signs (including A -Frame Signs), except for temporary real estate signs as regulated by this Chapter, and campaign signs; Temporary signs, except as otherwise specifically permitted by this section; K. Projecting signs, except for under.marquee signs; L. Roof signs; and M. Painted signs (wall -painted directional signs may be permitted, subject to the satisfaction of the Director of Planning and Building Services). 17.19.210 OFF-SITE ADVERTISING SIGNS A. Off-site advertising signs (including billboards) may be erected only in Billboard Overlay Zones and shall be subject to a conditional use permit. B. Conditions of approval for the erection or maintenance of a sign on a vacant lot may include, but are not limited to, the applicant's installation of appropriate sidewalks, landscaping and irrigation. C. The sign face shall not exceed 300 square feet. D. The height shall not exceed 35 feet measured from the ground level at the base of the sign. Each sign shall allow for a minimum of eight feet of clearance between the ground level and the structural portion of the sign designed to contain the advertising display. E. Signs shall not be erected or maintained within a 1,000 foot radius of any other off-site advertising sign or within a 1,000 foot radius of any residential zone. M F. Signs shall not be permitted having a message face visible from and within a distance of 1,000 feet of the edge of right-of-way of a freeway or scenic highway, measured horizontally along a line normal or perpendicular to the centerline of such freeway or scenic highway, if designed to be viewed partially or primarily by persons traveling thereon. G. Signs shall not be permitted on a roof, and none of the length of the structure of a freestanding sign shall extend over a roof. H. Signs shall not encroach over public rights-of-way. I. Signs may only have a single face for the display of copy. No additional face may be added to an existing sign. No sign shall be illuminated. J. All surfaces shall be covered, with no exposed structural material. K. Signs shall meet all setback and other requirements of the zone in which they are located, and shall not be erected or maintained within any required landscaping or parking area. L. Any sign which does not display copy for a continuous 30 -day period shall be deemed abandoned and shall be removed. M. No sign shall be constructed on or within three feet of any structure. N. Signs not located in a Billboard Overlay Zone may not be structurally upgraded in any way that would increase the size of the sign, its useful life or its fair market structural value. O. Signs damaged by natural causes may be repaired to their previous, undamaged condition. However, if the sign is not located in a Billboard Overlay Zone, no such repair may be undertaken where the cost of repair exceeds 25% of the sign's fair market structural value before the damage occurred. If the sign is located in a Billboard Overlay Zone and cost of repair exceeds 25% of the sign's fair market structural value, the sign may be repaired but must meet all the requirements of this section for off-site advertising signage. P. In the case of off-site advertising signs or structures in residential zones, and not withstanding any contrary provisions of this Code, such signs and structures shall be discontinued and removed pursuant to Chapter 17.05. 17.19.220 PERMIT NUMBER REQUIRED The sign permit number shall be affixed to the sign so that the legal approval of the sign shall be known by field inspection. The permit number shall be easily readable from ground level but does not have to be part of the sign face. 29 17.19.230 UNIFIED DESIGN THEMES Shopping centers containing five tenants or more shall prepare a master sign plan for a unified design theme for the center, which shall be subject to the approval of the Director of Planning and Building Services. All signs in the center shall thereafter conform to such master sign plan or any master sign Ian modification subs uentl a proved by the Director of Planning and Building Services a Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, the Planning Commission, after public hearing and notice pursuant to the provisions of this Code, shall have the authority to establish special signage districts with specific design standards to enable reasonable flexibility for unique circumstances and special design themes. 30 RESOLUTION NO. P99-22 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA RECOMMENDING APPROVAL TO THE CITY COUNCIL AN AMENDMENT TO THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT 99-004) WHEREAS, the City of Santa Clarita General Plan requires the implementation of a City of Santa Clarita Unified Development Code to be in compliance with the Government Code of the State of California; and WHEREAS, the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) of 1970, as amended, Public Resources Code Sections 21000-21774, require the evaluation of the Negative Declaration for projects such as amendments to the Unified Development Code; and WHEREAS, Unified Development Code Amendment No. 99-004 includes modifications to the following sections of the UDC: Permitted Use Chart and Sign Regulations (attached as Exhibit A); and WHEREAS, the proposed amendments further implements the Goals and Policies of the City's General Plan; and WHEREAS, a Negative Declaration was prepared, noticed, and circulated for public review in compliance with the provisions of CEQA and the City's Environmental Guidelines; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on September 7, 1999. NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DECLARE, FIND, AND DETERMINE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. The proposed amendments to the Santa Clarita Unified Development Code are consistent with the City of Santa Clarita General Plan and meet the requirements of the Government Code of the State of California. SECTION 2. The Planning Commission has reviewed and considered the Initial Study and Negative Declaration prepared for this project and recommends that the City Council adopt the Negative Declaration prepared for the amendments to the Unified Development Code as complete and in compliance with the provisions of CEQA and the City's Environmental Guidelines. SECTION 3. The Planning Commission does hereby recommend that the City Council act upon the amendments to the Unified Development Code with the following modifications: 1. Eliminate "Off-site Freeway Commercial Signs" (Section 17.19.180.H) proposed by staff. 2. Further modify "Community Identification Signs" (Section 17.19.180.A) to require that such signs feature "City of Santa Clarita" in larger letters, located above the name of the community. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 7th day of September, 1999. Robert C. Kell:,C airperson Planning Commission unbert, AICP, Secretary Commission STATE OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES CITY OF SANTA CLARITA I, Jeffrey Lambert, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was duly adopted by the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Clarita at a regular meeting thereof, held on the 7`" day of December, 1999, by the following vote of the Planning Commission: AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Hoback, Killmeyer, Ostrom NOES: COMMISSIONERS: Kellar, Modugno ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None COMMISSION SECRETARY pbs/c=enUsignage/99176-r. doc I J CITY OF SANTA CLARITA STAFF REPORT MASTER CASE NO. 99-176 UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT NO. 99-004 DATE: Augus 17, 1999 TO: C ai erson Kellar and Members of the Planning Commission FROM: Je Lambert, AICP, Director of Planning & Building Se es CASE PLANNER: Con McNamara, AICP, Associate Planner APPLICANT: The City of Santa Clarita LOCATION: Citywide REQUEST: A request to amend Chapter 17.19 of the City's Unified Development. Code (Sign Regulations) and Chapter 17.13 of the Unified Development Code (Permitted Use Chart) to allow for a more user and business -friendly Sign Ordinance BACKGROUND Chapter 17.19 of the Unified Development (UDC) governs sign regulations for residential, commercial, and industrial development in the City. Adopted November 13, 1990, the Sign Ordinance regulates, among other things, the height, size, number, and location of signage in the City. At the time of adoption, it took the place of the County of Los Angeles' code, which had .been used by staff as an interim ordinance from the time of the City's incorporation. In adopting a City Sign Ordinance, the City Council enacted standards that were more stringent than those found in the County code. The Council originally intended to have the new, more stringent standards take effect immediately, thus requiring businesses to remove numerous "out of compliance" signs throughout the City. The Chamber of Commerce, however, successfully lobbied for an amortization period that would gradually phase out the non -complying signs and phase in the complying ones. A nine- (9) year period was granted, which expires November 13'h of this year. Since October of 1996, staff has. been coordinating an effort to address the. impact of the amortization period's expiration. A task force comprised of various representatives from the business community was assembled and began meeting regularly to facilitate compliance with the Sign Ordinance. Efforts included Master Case 99-176 August 17, 1999 Page 2 coordinating outreach to the community and assessing the impact of the ordinance on businesses throughout the City. On February 9, 1999, the City Council adopted Master Case No. 98-243, making the Ordinance easier to understand and use. At the time the Council considered the amendment, concerns were raised by a contingency of small business owners (Santa Clarita Merchant's Association) and the Council directed staff to return with a further amendment to the Ordinance that addresses their concerns. Since that time, staff has worked with the Task Force and the Santa Clarita Merchant's Association to craft amendments to the Ordinance that represent the interests of small and large businesses alike. The attached amendment is the result of that effort. " As we move closer toward the November 13, 1999; deadline for sign compliance, staff continues to work with the community to remove non -complying signs. Staff is working with numerous properties throughout the City to develop comprehensive sign programs for their sites and remove non -complying signs. Recent examples of non -complying pole signs that have been remove include: • "Coldwell Banker Realty" Pole Sign in the Canyon Center • "Canyon Center/Ralphs" Pole Sign in the Canyon Center • The Ark" Pole Sign on Soledad Canyon Road • "Home Maker's Furniture" Pole Sign on Soledad Canyon Road • "Tiny Naylor's" and "Union 76" Pole Signs on Lyons Avenue • "Shell" Pole Sign on Lyons Avenue PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project consists of minor changes to the Sign Ordinance that outline the administrative steps that an applicant must take to obtain signage. Additionally, the proposed changes create an administrative variance application and clarify the findings staff must make when approving Sign Review and variance applications. Finally, the proposed changes create new special purposed signs including temporary special event banners, marquee signs, subdivision identification signs, freeway commercial signs, and automobile dealership identification placards. GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION SURROUNDING LAND USE ZONING The proposed amendment would affect signs throughout the four communities of Santa Clarita. Master Case 99-176 August 17, 1999 Page 3 ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS As part of the project review, an environmental assessment was made to evaluate the impacts of the project. It was determined that the proposed project could not have a significant impact on the environment. As such, a Negative Declaration was prepared by staff and circulated for public review and comment on July 14, 1999. As of the date of preparing this report, no comments on the Negative Declaration were received. ANALYSIS The amortization period for pre-existing legal, nonconforming signage is set to expire November 13, 1999. As staff works with the business community to secure compliance, a final amendment to the Ordinance is being proposed in response to the City Council's desire that staff assist businesses by clarifying the findings used when granting flexibility. As with the previous amendment to the Ordinance, staff understands that changes can be made to the Sign Ordinance that will not alter the intent of what the Council adopted in 1990 but help facilitate compliance with the requirements. The following areas are ones for which changes have been proposed: Administration In an attempt to further simplify the Sign Ordinance and clarify the types of situations for which staff may grant relief, an Administration section has been added. This section identifies the three types of signage applications for which an applicant can apply and defines the findings staff must make when approving signs. The section is divided into Sign Permit, Enhanced Signage (Sign Review), and Administrative Variance sections. 1. A Sign Permit is required for all signage and consists of a planning review and any permits from the City's Building and Safety Division (mechanical permit, electrical permit, etc.). A sign permit is an "over the counter" permit through Planning and generally through Building and Safety. If a requested sign adheres to the Sign Ordinance, the Planning Division can grant approval immediately and free of charge. 2. A Sign Review (Enhanced Signage) is required in situations where multi tenant structures are involved . and/or ground signage is proposed. Historically, a Sign Review application would be granted in situations where additional signage needs were warranted—a large shopping center, a structure with a significant setback from the roadway, or a structure with a large sign band. The Enhanced Signage section specifies the increases staff may consider with regard to wall, monument, and pylon signage when the required findings are met. Master Case 99-176 August 17, 1999 Page 4 3. An Administrative Variance (Director's Adjustment) is a new application created as a mechanism to address the City Council's concerns that businesses in the City have an avenue outside of a Variance granted by the Planning Commission to address hardship situations. The application type allows business and property owners the ability to apply for relief from the Ordinance in situations where a Sign Review is insufficient. Rather than require applicants to pay a standard variance fee of $2,215 and burden the Planning Commission with a potentially excessive signage caseload, staff is proposing to create a hearing officer (Director of Planning & Building Services or designee), who would approve or deny applications based on the City's Variance findings. Cabinet Wall Signage The current standards for wall signage allow 1.5 square feet per lineal foot of building frontage when channel letter signs are proposed and 1.0 square feet per lineal foot when cabinet (box or can) signage is proposed. Due to the increase in tasteful cabinet signage currently being proposed in the City, staff is proposing to eliminate the distinction between the two types and allow 1.5 square feet per lineal foot for all wall signage. The intent is to allow a business greater flexibility when designing signage for a particular structure. Special Purpose Signs The most significant changes proposed by staff fall into the category of Special Purpose Signs. Within this section of the Ordinance, staff is proposing numerous clarifications and additions to further facilitate the needs of businesses in the City. 1. Community Identification Signs: Standards for freestanding community identification signs currently exist in the Ordinance; however, the language is vague and confusing. Staff is proposing language that clarifies the height of.sign text, types of communities the sign may identify, and requires that any signage utilize decorative materials that are compatible with the location and/or community. 2. Off-site Freeway Commercial Signage. In an effort to allow freeway exposure to larger commercial centers located toward the interior of the City, staff is proposing to allow off-site freeway commercial signs subject to a Conditional Use Permit. Similar in scope to the sign recently reviewed by the Planning Commission, this discussion would allow such signs along either Interstate -5 or State Route 14 in situations where a commercial center of at least 50 acres does not have freeway exposure. Off-site freeway commercial signs would be required to be architecturally related to the area in which they are located and could not be located closer than 2,000 feet to another such sign. As with all Conditional Use Permits, the Planning Commission would have review authority and would be able to approve or deny any proposed sign. Master Case 99-176 August 17, 1999 Page 5 3. Temporary Special Event Banners. This would allow Temporary Event Banners on both private and public property subject to approval of a Zoning Compliance application. For businesses, temporary banners would be allowed as a means of publicizing special events such as grand openings, carnivals, holiday sales, parades, soft openings, factory sponsored sales events, charitable events, community holiday activities and other such events. Signs would be required to be located within the boundaries of the businesses' structure of lease space and would be limited to 45 calendar days per year. For publicly sponsored or co-sponsored events, temporary banners would be allowed on approved light standards and paseo bridges for a period of time not to exceed 21 days. 4. Marquee Signs. In an attempt to clarify standards for marquee signs, specific standards have been prepared. Utilized for theater uses, marquee signs can be strong architectural component of a structure. The proposed standards ensure that the signs are architecturally related and proportional to the structure on which they are located. 5. Subdivision Identification Signs. This would allow subdivision identification signs subject to a Sign Review application. Different than community identification signs, subdivision identification signs would allow individual subdivisions (Summit, Old Orchard, etc.) to be identified. 6. Automobile Dealership Identification Placards. This would allow automobile dealership identification signs on parking lot light standards that front a street. Such signs shall be required to be uniform in nature and will allow dealerships to effectively mark their respective areas. General Plan The proposed project could be found to be consistent with the following goals and policies of the General Plan: 1) Goal 4, Policy 4.5 of the Land Use Element which seeks to "promote the preservation, rehabilitation and/or upgrading of older centers, including downtown Newhall, Canyon Country, and Saugus, where appropriate." 2) Goal 4, Policy 4.6 of the Land Use Element which seeks to "encourage the upgrading of strip commercial development along San Fernando Road and Lyons Avenue." 3) Goal 4, Policy 4.9 of the Land Use Element which seeks to "ensure that signage on new and existing development is visually attractive and provides a high quality image for the City_" Master Case 99-176 August 17, 1999 Page 6 Therefore, staff feels that the Commission could find the project to be consistent with the General Plan. CONCLUSION Signs are an important element of both the business and aesthetics of the City of Santa Clarita. Staff believes that the proposed changes to the Sign Ordinance meet the needs of the business community and further the aesthetic goals of the General Plan. In formulating the proposed revisions, staff has attempted to listen to the concerns of both the small business owner and large business owner alike. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning Commission: 1) Receive staff report, provide comments to staff, and continue the item to the meeting of September 7, 1999, as a public hearing. ATTACHMENTS 1. Proposed Sign Ordinance JJL:CDM:lep s:\pbs\current\signage\99176-s.doc CITY OF SANTA CLARITA NEGATIVE DECLARATION [X] Proposed [ ] Final MASTER CASE NO: 99-176 PERMIT/PROJECT NAME: Unified Development Code Amendment 99-004 APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita LOCATION OF THE PROJECT: Citywide DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT: This is a request to Amend the City's Unified Development Code, Chapter 17.19 (Sign Regulations) establishing specific standards for a variety of sign types, modify existing definitions, add an Administrative section, add a Justification for Larger Signage section, add an Off -Site Freeway Commercial Sign section, and make text changes allowing applicants greater flexibility in erecting signage. These minor modifications to the regulations will primarily affect an applicant's ability to design signage. It is the purpose of this section to establish a comprehensive system for the regulation of on-site and off-site signs within the City and thereby make Santa Clarita attractive to residents, visitors, commercial, industrial and professional businesses while maintaining economic stability through an attractive sign program. Based on the information contained in the Initial Study prepared for this project, and pursuant to the requirements of Section 15065 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City of Santa Clarita [X] City Council [I Planning Commission [I Director of Community Development finds that the project as proposed or revised will have no significant effect upon the environment, and that a NegativeDeclaration shall be adopted pursuant to Section 15070 of CEQA. Mitigation measures for this project [X] Are Not Required Prepared Approved by: (Signature) [ ] Are Attached [ ] Are Not Attached IV Enrioue Diaz, Assistant Planner II (Name/Title) Conal McNamara, AICP. Associate Planner Public Review Period From July 14. 1999 To Aueust 17. 1998 Public Notice Given On July 14. 1999 By: [X] Legal Advertisement [ ] Posting of Properties (] Written Notice CERTIFICATION current\99176ND ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (Initial Study Form B) CITY OF SANTA CLARITA Lead Agency: Contact Person & Phone Number: City of Santa Clarita Conal McNamara, AICP Associate Planner City of Santa Clarita (805) 255-4330; or Enrique Diaz Assistant Planner II City of Santa Clarita Master Case or CIP Number: Master Case No. 99-176 Entitlement Type(s): Unified Development Code Amendment 99-004 Project Description: This is a request to Amend the City's Unified Development Code, Chapter 17.19 (Sign Regulations) establishing specific standards for a variety of sign types, modify existing definitions, add an Administrative section, add a Justification for Larger Signage section, add an Off -Site Freeway Commercial Sign section, and make text changes allowing applicants greater flexibility in erecting signage. These minor modifications to the regulations will primarily affect an applicant's ability to design signage. it is the purpose of this section to establish a comprehensive system for the regulation of on-site and off-site signs within the City and thereby make Santa Clarita attractive to residents, visitors, commercial, industrial and professional businesses while maintaining economic stability through an attractive sign program. Project Location: Citywide Project Applicant: City of Santa Clarita (Name, Address, Phone) 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: Citywide Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g. permits, financing approval, or participation agreement): ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED The environmental factors checked below would be affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact' as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. [ ] Land Use and Planning (] Transportation/ [ ] Public Services Circulation [ ] Population and Housing [ ] Biological Resources [ ] Recreation [ j Geological Problems [ ] Noise [ ] Aesthetics [ ] Water [ j Hazards [ ] , Cultural Resources [ ] Stormwater Management (] Mandatory Tests of [ ] Utilities and Service & Recyling Significance System [ ] Air Quality [ ] Energy and Mineral Resources DETERMINATION: On the basis of this initial evaluation: [X] I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. [ ] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the project. A NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. [ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant impact on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. [ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect(s) on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been mitigated adequately in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets, if the effect is a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated." An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. [ ] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there WILL NOT be a significant effect in this case because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project. 2 Prepared By: r (Signature) Approved By: (?� Enrique Diaz Assistant Planner II (Namw7itle) Conal McNamara Associate Planner July 14., 1999 (Date) July 14, 1999 (Signature) (NameMitle) (Date) 3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: 1. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the proposal: a) Conflict with general plan designation or zoning? b) Conflict with applicable environmental plans or policies adopted by agencies with jurisdiction over the project? c) Be incompatible with existing land use in the city? d) Disrupt or divide the physical arrangement of an established community (including a low-income or minority community)? e) Affect a Significant Ecological Area (SEA)? f) Other Il. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the proposal: a) Cumulatively exceed official regional or local population projections? b) Create a net loss of jobs? c) Displace existing housing, especially affordable housing? d) Other III. GEOLOGIC PROBLEMS. Will the proposal result in: a) Unstable earth conditions or in changes in geologic substructures? b) Disruptions, displacements, compaction or overcovering of the soil? c) Change in topography or ground surface relief features? d) The destruction, covering or modification of any unique geologic or physical features? e) Any increase in wind or water erosion of soils, either on or off the site? f) Exposure of people or property to geologic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, mudslides, ground failure, or similar hazards? g) Changes in deposition, erosion or siltation? h) Other modification of a wash, channel, creek, or river? 0 Potentially Significant Impact Potentially Unless Less than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact [] [7 [] [X] C 1 [ I U [XI [X] [XI [XI [XI Potentially Significant , Impact Potentially Unless Less than Significant Mitigation significant No i) Impact Earth movement (cut and/or fill) of 10,000 cubic (] Incorporated Impact (] [ ] Impact [X] yards or more? j) Development and/or grading on a slope greater [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] than 25% natural grade? k) Development within the Alquist-Priolo Special () (] (] [X] Studies Zone? I) Other [1 (] (I [X] IV. WATER. Would the proposal result in: a) Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns, or [ ] O [ ] [Xl the rate and amount of surface runoff? b) Exposure of people or property to water related [ ] () [ ] [X] hazards such as flooding? c) Discharge into surface waters or other alteration of [ ] [ ] (] (X] surface water quality (e.g. temperature, dissolved oxygen, or turbidity) d) Changes in the amount of surface water in any [ ] () [ ] [X) water body? e) Changes in currents, or the course of direction of [ ] () [ ] (X] water movements? f) Changes in the quantity of ground waters, either [ ] (] [ ] (X] through direct additions or withdrawals, or through interception of an aquifer by cuts or excavations or through substantial loss of groundwater recharge capability? g) Altered direction or rate of flow of groundwater? [ ] O (] [Xj h) Impacts to groundwater quality? [ ] [ ] (] [X) i) Substantial reduction in the amount of [ ] () [ ] (X) groundwater otherwise available for public water supplies? j) Other [] [] [] (X], V. S.TORMWATER MANAGEMENT AND RECYCLING. Would the proposal result in: a) Would the proposed project result in storm water [ ] (] (] system discharges from areas for materials storage, vehicle or equipment fueling, vehicle or equipment maintenance (including washing), waste handling, hazardous materials handling or storage, delivery areas or loading docks, or other outdoor work areas? b) Would the proposed project result in a significant [ ] [ ] [ ] [Xl environmentally harmful increase in the flow rate or volume of the project site or surrounding areas? C) Would the proposed project result in storm water discharges that would significantly impair the beneficial uses of receiving waters or areas that provide water quality benefits (e.g., riparian corridors, wetlands, etc.)? d) Would the proposed project cause harm to the biological integrity of drainage systems and water bodies? e) Does the proposed project include provisions for the separation and reuse of materials? VI. AIR QUALITY. Would the proposal: a) Violate any air quality standard or contribute to an existing or projected air quality violation? b) Expose sensitive receptors to pollutants? c) Create objectionable odors? d) Other VII. TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION. Would the proposal result in: a) Increased vehicle trips or traffic congestion? b) Hazards to safety from design features (e.g. sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses? c) Inadequate emergency access or access to nearby uses? d) Insufficient parking capacity onsite or offsite? e) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? f) Conflicts with adopted policies supporting alternative transportation (e.g. bus stops, bicycle racks)? Potentially I1 Significant [I Impact [] pq Potentially Unless Less than [] Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact I] I I1 [X] [] [] [l IN 11 11 11 IN I] I1 [] IXI [I [l [] pq [] [] [1 IXl [] [1 [I IX] [I [l [] [Xl [J [] [I IN [] I1 [] [X] [] I1 [] [XI [1 [] I1 [X] [] [I [l [X] g) Disjointed pattern of roadway improvements [ ] h) Other [] VIII. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. would the proposal result in impacts to: a) Endangered, threatened or rare species or their [ ] habitats (including but not limited to plants, fish, Insects, animals, and birds)? b) Oak trees? [] c) Wetland habitat or blueline stream? [ ] d) Wildlife dispersal or migration corridors? [ ] e) Other [] I1 [7 [Xl [ l [ ] [x] [] [] IX] I1 I1 IXI [ l [ ] [x] [ ] [ 7 [X] [1 [l [X1 d) other I] I I Potentially IX] X. HAZARDS. Would the proposal involve: significant a) A risk of accidental explosion or release of [ ] [ ] Impact [X] Potentially Unless Less than Significant Mitigation significant No b) Impact Incorporated Impact Impact IX. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal: a) Conflict with adopted energy conservation plans? [ ] I I [ I health hazard? [ ] [ ] [XI b) Use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful and [ ] IXI inefficient manner? [ ] [ ] [ ] IXI c) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral e) [ ] resource that would be of future value to the region [ ] [ ] [XI and the residents of the State? d) other I] I I I I IX] X. HAZARDS. Would the proposal involve: a) A risk of accidental explosion or release of [ ] [ ] I I [X] hazardous substances (including but not limited to oil, pesticides, chemicals, or radiation)? b) Possible interference with an emergency response [ ] [ ] I I [XI plan or emergency evacuation plan? c) The creation of any health hazard or potential [ ] [ I I I [ I health hazard? d) Exposure of people to existing sources of potential [ I [ ] [ ] IXI health hazards (e.g. electrical transmission lines, gas lines, oil pipelines)? e) Increased fire hazard in areas with flammable [ ] [ ] [ I IXI brush, grass, or trees? f) other [ l [ ] [ ] I I XI. NOISE. Would the proposal result in: a) Increases in existing noise levels? [ ] [ I [ l [X] b) Exposure of people to severe noise levels or [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] vibration? c) Other [ I [ I [ l IXI XII. PUBLIC SERVICES. would the proposal have an effect on, or result in a need for new or altered government services in any of the following areas: a) Fire protection? [ ] [ I [ ] [X] b) Police protection? [ I L 1 [ ] [XI c) Schools? I 1 [ l I ] [X] d) Maintenance of pubic facilities, including roads? [ ] [ ] [ I IXI e) Other government services? I I [ ] I ] [X] XIII. UTILITIES. Would the proposal result In a need for new systems or supplies, or substantial alterations to the following utilities: a) Power or natural gas? [] [ I [ 1 [X] 7 0 Potentially Significant Impact Unless Leas than Mitigation Significant No Incorporated Impact Impact. Potentially - Significant brief, definitive period of time while long-term Impact impacts will endure well into the future.) c) Does the project have impacts which are [ ] individually limited but cumulatively considerable? (A project may impact on two or more separate resources where the impact on each resource is relatively small, but where the effect of the total of those impacts on the environment is significant.) d) Does the project have environmental effects which [ ) will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? XVIII. DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME'DE MINUMUS' FINDING a) Will the project have an adverse effect either [ j individually or cumulatively, on fish and wildlife resources? Wildlife shall be defined for the Purpose of this question as "all wild animals, birds, plants, fish, amphibians, and related ecological communities, including the habitat upon which the wildlife depends for its continued viability." 0 Potentially Significant Impact Unless Leas than Mitigation Significant No Incorporated Impact Impact. IXX. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND/OR EARLIER ANALYSIS: Section and Subsections Evaluation of Impact 1 and II LAND USE & No changes in land use, housing and population are expected to occur as PLANNING/HOUSING & a result of the proposed amendments. No significant impacts are POPULATION anticipated with the project. The amendments will be consistent with and will implement the goals and policies of the City's General Plan. 111, IV, V, VI, Vill, XV. No significant impacts are expected to occur to these environmental GEOLOGICAL/WATER/ resources as a result of the proposed sign regulation amendments. The STORMWATER modifications will be consistent with and will implement the City's General MANAGEMENT/AIR Plan. QUALITY/BIOLOGICAL RESOURCESICULTURAL RESOURCES VII, XII, XIII AND XVI. No significant impacts and changes to the amount and extent of the local TRANSPORTATION/ transportation system, public services, utilities and recreation opportunities CIRCULATIOWPUBLIC are anticipated. The proposed amendments will be consistent with and will SERVICES/UTILITIES/ implement the City's General Plan. RECREATION IX. ENERGY AND No increases in the rate of use and demand for renewable and non - MINERAL RESOURCES renewable resources will occur as a result of the modifications proposed to the Unified Development Code regarding sign regulations. No significant impacts are anticipated. The proposed amendments will be consistent with and will implement the City's General Plan. X AND XI. No significant impacts to the public health, safety and welfare are expected HAZARDS AND NOISE to occur as a result of the proposed amendments to the Unified Development Code regarding sign regulations. The proposed amendments will be consistent with and will implement the City's -General Plan. XIV. AESTHETICS Although signage directly affects the aesthetic quality of the City, no significant impacts are expected to occur as a result of the proposed modifications to the Unified Development Code regarding sign regulations. A reduction in the cluster of signage in the City creates a more attractive streetscape. Proposed changes to the code will include the establishment of specific standards, modification of existing definitions, addition of an Administrative section, Justification for Larger Signage section, an Off -Site Commercial Signage section and text changes allowing for greater flexibility in erecting signage. This will not result in a cumulative increase in signage and will not significantly impact the overall number or quality of signs in the City. As such, there will be no aesthetic detriment to the City. Instead the proposed amendment will help to promote an improved cityscape by establishing consistency for signs throughout the City. The proposed amendments will not affect a scenic vista open to the public view, have a negative aesthetic effect or create a significant glare or light. The proposed amendments will be consistent with and will implement the City's General Plan SJpbs/cu rrent/991761s 10