HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-09-28 - ORDINANCES - UDC SIGN AMEND 99-004 (2)ORDINANCE NO. 99-16
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)
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 Governmental Code of the State of California;
and
WHEREAS, the Unified Development Code Amendment 99-004 includes amendments to the Zoning
Section and within the following sub -sections: Permitted Use Chart and Sign Regulations; and
WHEREAS, this ordinance amending the City's zoning code is consistent with the City's General
Plan; and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments further implement the Goals and Policies of the City's General
Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission conducted a duly noticed public hearing on September 7,
1999, at City Hall, 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Santa Clarita. At this meeting, the Planning Commission
adopted Resolution P99-15, recommending adoption of a Negative Declaration and approval of Unified
Development Code Amendment 99-004 to the City Council; and
WHEREAS, a Negative Declaration was adopted by separate resolution pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act,
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA,
CALIFORNIA, DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The proposed amendments to the Santa Clarita Unified Development Code (Exhibit
A) 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 Zoning Section of the Santa Clarita Unified Development Code shall be amended
to include revised Chapters 17.13 and 17.19 on file in the office of the City Clerk.
SECTION 3. That if any portion of this Ordinance is held to be invalid, that portion shall be
stricken and severed, and the remaining portions shall be unaffected and remains in full force and effect.
SECTION 4. That the City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this ordinance and shall cause it to
be published in the manner prescribed by law.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 28th day of September ,
19 99 .
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�AYOR
ATTEST:
'4'
CITY CLERK
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
I, Sharon L. Dawson, CMC, City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the
foregoing Ordinance No. 99-16 was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting
of the City Council on the 14 day of September , 19_99_. That thereafter, said
Ordinance was duly adopted and passed at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 2 8 day of
September 1999 by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Weste, Ferry, Darcy
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: K1 a j i c, Heid t
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
CITY CLERK
Pbs\current\signage\99176ord.doc
EXHIBIT `A'
17.13.050 General Commercial Uses A RE RVL RL RS RM RMH RH CTC CC CN CO VSR BP IC I
(continued)
Off-site Freeway Commercial X X X X X X X X X C C C C C C C
Signs
All "C's" need to have a footnote indicating the following:
"Permitted in any commercial, industrial, or business park zone along either Interstate -5 or State Route -14 subject to Section
17.19.180.H"
Chapter 17.19
SIGN REGULATIONS
Sections:
17.19.10 PURPOSE
17.19.11 DEFINITIONS
17.19.12 ADMINISTRATION
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, AUTOMOBILE DEALERSHIP IDENTIFICATION PLACARDS - shall mean an on-
site sign permanently attached to a light standard that identifies the name of the dealership and the
make of vehicle sold on-site.
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.
SIGN, COMMUNITY IDENTIFICATION shall mean a sign which contains the name of a
recognized Community (e.g. Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus or Valencia) and/or the City, 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 part of a building and protruding over public or private sidewalks
or rights-of-way. Such signs are to identify movie and/or live performances/theaters and 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 freestanding sign, taller than a monument sign, in which the sign
face is separated from ground level by means of one or more supports such as poles, pole covers
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 temporary sign which provides necessary travel
directions to and within a subdivision offered for sale or lease for the first time, but which
contains no other advertising matter.
SIGN, SUBDIVISION IDENTIFICATION shall mean an on-site sign that identifies a
subdivision but which contains no other advertising matter.
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 first 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.
ld
17.19.012 ADMINISTRATION
A. Sign Permit
1. PuMose. A sign permit shall be required prior to the placing, erecting, moving, or
reconstructing any sign in the City, unless expressly exempted by this title. Signs
requiring a permit shall comply with the provisions of this title and all other
applicable laws and ordinances.
2. Application. An application for a permit shall be made on forms as prescribed by the
Director of Planning and Building Services. Three (3) sets of plans depicting a site
layout and elevations as well as details of the proposed signage and any applicable
fees shall be submitted. A sign review application [pursuant to (B) below]shall be
required for all multi -tenant buildings or shopping centers as well as any request for
monument or pylon signage.
3. Approval Authority. The purpose of a permit is to help ensure compliance with the
provisions of this title. After receipt of a sign application, the Director of Planning
and Building Services or a designated representative shall render a decision to
approve, approve with modifications, or deny the sign request. Such a review shall
ensure that any sign proposal is in conformance with this title and is consistent with
its intent and purpose.
B. Enhanced Signage (Sign Review).
1. Pup2ose. In cases of centers, structures, or properties with additional signage needs
(including, but not limited to, irregularly shaped large lot, poor visibility, on -street
parking), the Director of Planning and Building Services may the following standards
for pylon, monument, and wall signs:
a. Increase in Wall Sign letter height up to eight (8) feet;
b. Increase in number of vertical lines of text in a Wall Sign to two or more, provided
that the overall square footage does not exceed 1.5 square feet per linear foot of
frontage;
c. Increase up to eight feet of the non -text portions of a Wall Sign;
d. One additional pylon sign for centers larger than three (3) acres and with more than
1,100 feet of street frontage;
e. Increase in pylon sign height to a maximum of 20 feet for centers larger than three
(3) acres, with more than 1,100 feet of street frontage;
L Increase in pylon sign area up to a maximum of 160 square feet for centers larger
than three (3) acres, with more than 1,100 feet of street frontage;
g. Increase in Monument Sign height to eight (8) feet in centers containing five or more
tenants or in larger centers where visibility constraints justify monument signage as
opposed to pylon signage; and
h. Increase in Monument Sign area, subject to the provisions of Section 17.19.100, for
larger centers or where visibility constraints justify monument signage as opposed to
pylon signage.
i. Approve Subdivision Identification Signs, subject to the provisions of Section
17.19.180.L;
j. Approve up to 20 square feet for second floor businesses facing the street or
highway;
k. Approve automobile dealership identification placards, subject to the provisions of
Section 17.19.180.M.
2. Application. An application for a Sign Review shall be made on forms as prescribed
by the Director of Planning and Building Services. Three (3) sets of plans depicting
a site layout and elevations as well as details of the proposed signage and any
applicable fees shall be submitted. A sign review application shall be required for all
multi -tenant buildings or centers as well as any request for monument or pole
signage.
3. Approval Authority. The Director of Planning and Building Services or a designated
representative shall render a decision to approve, approve with modifications, or deny
the sign review. Such a review shall ensure that any sign proposal is in conformance
with this title and is consistent with its intent and purpose.
4. Findinas. The Director of Planning and Building Services may approve a Sign
Review, with or without modifications, if, on the basis of the application and
evidence submitted, the Director makes the following findings:
a. The proposed sign(s) comply with the City's adopted Design Guidelines;
b. The proposed sign(s) would not interfere with pedestrian or vehicular safety;
c. The proposed sign(s) would not detract from the character of a historic or
architecturally significant structure nor would the proposed sign(s) be located so
as to have a negative impact on adjacent property;
d. The proposed sign(s) would not detract from the pedestrian quality of the street
or area;
e. The proposed sign(s) would not add to an over proliferation of signs on a
particular property;
f. The proposed sign(s) shall enhance the overall development, be in harmony with,
and relate visually to other signs on-site, to the structures or developments they
identify, and to surrounding development;
g. The conditions applicable to the property involved, including size, shape,
topography, structure setback, location, or surroundings do not generally apply to
the surrounding properties in the same zone;
C. Administrative Variance (Director's Adjustment)
1. Purpose. The Director of Planning and Building Services or his /her designee is
appointed Sign Hearing Officer. Under cases of hardship or unusual circumstances,
the Sign Hearing Officer shall have the authority to grant a variance from the
standards contained in the City's Sign Ordinance. Provided, however, no variance
may be granted that would permit prohibited signage as provided in Section
17.19.200.
2. Application. An adjustment application shall be made on forms as prescribed by the
Director of Planning and Building Services. Three (3) sets of plans depicting a site
layout and elevations as well as details of the proposed signage and any applicable
fees shall be submitted. The fee shall equal the fee for adjustments.
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3. Approval Authority. The Sign Hearing Officer shall render a decision to approve,
approve with modifications, or deny the variance. Such a review shall ensure that
any sign proposal is in conformance with this title and is consistent with its intent and
purpose.
4. Findings.
a. That, because of special circumstances applicable to the property (size, shape,
topography, location or surroundings) or the intended use of the property, the
strict application of the Development Code deprives the property of privileges
enjoyed by other properties in the vicinity under identical zoning classification;
b. That granting a variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a
substantial property right possessed by other property in the same vicinity and
zone and denied to the property for which the variance is sought;
c. That granting the variance will not be materially detrimental to the public health,
safety or welfare, or injurious to the property or improvements in such vicinity
and zone in which the property is located;
d. That granting this variance does not constitute a special privilege inconsistent
with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and zone in which such
property is situated;
e. That granting the variance does not allow a use or activity which is prohibited by
the zoning regulation governing the parcel of property;
f. That granting the variance will not be inconsistent with the City of Santa Clarita
General Plan; and
g. That no other signing alternative or design would be feasible or be able to
provide reasonable signing in accordance with this title;
h. That the sign contain at least one of the following:
• Creative image reflecting current or historical character of Santa Clarita,
Newhall, Saugus, Canyon Country, or Valencia;
• Symbols representing the use, name or logo of the building or business;
• Unusual lighting techniques;
• Handsculptured elements of wood, metal or other materials;
• Classic historic design style;
• Handpainted lettering or graphics.
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;
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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;
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.
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:
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;
Distribution on Private PropertyThe 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 Penalm. 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
3. 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.
3. Wall business signs shall not extend above the lowest point of a roof or highest
point of a parapet wall.
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C. Location of Siens Business signs shall not:
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:
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
1. 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 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.
3. Any building containing business establishments, which front only on an interior
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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 A.4 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 permitted a maximum of 10 square feet of sign area as a wall
business sign. However, 20 square feet of sign area may be granted pursuant to a
Sign Review.
7. 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 Wall business signs shall not extend above the highest point, exclusive
of any roof structures, of the roof or parapet.
D. Li htin . 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 larger single tenant occupancies, for initial
capital letters or logos, for two or more lines of text stacked vertically, and/or for non -text
portions of a sign. 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:
A. Number and Frontage.
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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.
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 Sims
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.
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.
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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
A maximum of one pylon sign per parcel of land or shopping center containing a
minimum of three acres and 500 feet of street frontage shall be permitted. For
larger centers, the Director may approve more than one pylon sign pursuant to a
Sign Review [Section 17.19.012(B)]. 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.
B. Sign Area. A maximum of 40 square feet per sign face shall be permitted except that the
Director may approve up to 160 square feet for signs in larger centers pursuant to a sign
review. A pylon sign shall have no more than two sign faces.
C. Height. The maximum height of a pylon sign shall be 15 feet as measured from street
level except that the Director may approve signs up to 20 feet in height in larger centers
pursuant to a sign reviews.
D. 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 pylon sign shall be located in such a manner as to impede traffic and sight
visibility as determined by the Director.
E. 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.
17.19.120 INCIDENTAL BUSINESS SIGNS
A. Each business establishment may be permitted an incidental business sign provided:
1. That such sign is a wall mounted sign; and
15
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.
3. 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.
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:
Any continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited;
16
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.
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.
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.
17
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. Lialuing.
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.
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
M
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
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. Liahting.
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 findings required 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.
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
C
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 community identification signs are
permitted in any zone at or near the entrance to Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus or
Valencia pursuant to the approval of a Sign Review and subject to the following
restrictions:
1. Area Permitted. Sign text shall not exceed 96 square feet in sign area or 192
square feet in sign area for a two-sided sign.
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.
4. Design. Such signs will be architecturally related to the area in which they are
located and shall be constructed with decorative materials to be compatible with
the location and/or community.
B. Civic Organization Signs Freestanding civic organization signs are permitted in any
20
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 Sian 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:
Types 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.
21
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 corner, one sign, not to exceed 30 square
feet in sign area or 120 square feet in sign area, shall be permitted at the
corner 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 corner 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 Sign. 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 Signs Public transportation signs are permitted in any zone,
pursuant to the approval of the Director of Planning and Building Services and the
following conditions:
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.
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
22
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.
H. Off-site Freeway Commercial Signs. Off-site Freeway Commercial Signs are permitted
in any commercial, industrial, or business park zone along either hiterstate-5 or State
Route -14 subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit pursuant to the following
restrictions:
1. Area Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed 960 square feet in sign area per
face.
2. Height Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed 25 feet in height, measured
vertically from the base of the sign.
3. Lighting. Such signs may be internally or externally lighted; however, no
flashing lights shall be permitted.
4. Design. Such signs shall be architecturally related to the area in which they are
located. Signs shall be sensitively designed in areas without development to be
in keeping with thenatural surroundings.
5. Commercial Center/Area Size. The commercial center or area being identified
by the sign shall be a minimum of 50 acres.
6. Distance. Signs shall not be located within 2,000 feet of another off-site freeway
commercial sign.
I. Temporary Special Event Banners (Private Property). Temporary Event Banners are
permitted in any commercial, industrial, or business park zone subject to the approval of
a Zoning Compliance application as a means of publicizing events such as grand
openings, carnivals, holiday sales, parades, soft openings, factory sponsored sales events,
charitable events, community holiday activities, and other such events pursuant to the
following restrictions:
1. Banners shall be limited to 45 days per year for each business. This time may be
utilized in any combination of duration; however, the number of special events shall
not exceed five (5) per calendar year and no single event shall exceed a duration of
21 consecutive days.
2. Banners shall be limited to three feet in height and 60 square feet in area and may not
23
include prices, telephone numbers, leasing information, name brands or specific
items for sale. Signs shall be affixed wholly to the structure or suite associated with
the special event, shall not exceed the roofline, and shall not encroach into the public
right of way.
J. Temoorary Special Event Banners (Public Property). Pursuant to approval of a Zoning
Compliance application, Temporary Event Banners are permitted in the public right-of-way on
approved street light standards and approved paseo bridges as a means of publicizing events
sponsored or co-sponsored by a public or non-profit agency pursuant to the following restrictions:
1. Banners shall be limited to 21 days per City event.
2. No more than two 3' x 8' banners shall be located on any given light standard and no
more than 75 light standards shall be used for each event.
3. No more than one 4' x 30 banner shall be located on any given paseo bridge.
K. Mar uq ee Signs. Marquee Signs for approved movie and live performance/theater use are
permitted in any commercial zone subject to approval of a Minor Use Permit and pursuant to the
following restrictions:
Area Permitted. Such signs shall be proportional in sign area to the structure on
which they are located.
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.
4. Design. Such signs shall be architecturally related to the area in which they are
located.
L. Subdivision Identification Signs. On-site Subdivision Identification Signs for approved
subdivisions are permitted in any residential zone subject to approval of a Sign Review and
pursuant to the following restrictions:
1. Area Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed 54 square feet in sign area.
2. Height Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed six (6) feet in height, measured
vertically from the base of the sign.
3. Lighting. Such signs may be externally lighted or backlit (halo lighting).
4. Design. Such signs shall be architecturally related to the area in which they are
located.
M. Automobile Dealership Identification Placards. On-site automobile identification placards
for approved franchised vehicle sales facilities are permitted on street frontage parking lot light
standards subject to approval of a sign review and pursuant to the following restrictions:
Area Permitted. Such signs shall not exceed eight square feet per placard.
24
2. Number Permitted. No more than two placards on each side of a light standard
shall be permitted for a total maximum of four signs per light standard.
3. Lighting. Such signs shall not be illuminated.
4. Design. All on-site signs shall be substantially similar and shall be aesthetically
compatible with the on-site structures and signage.
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 Signs
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:
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.
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
OR
permitted.
4. Lightiniz. Subdivision sales signs may be internally or externally lighted, but any
continuous or sequential flashing operation is prohibited.
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 Si nes
1. Director's Review. If a site plan is first 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 signsas 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.
5. Location of Signs. Subdivision entry and special -feature signs shall be located
on said subdivision.
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.
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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,
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,
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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;
I. Portable signs (including A -Frame Signs), except for temporary real estate signs as
regulated by this Chapter, and campaign signs;
J. 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.
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.
W.
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.
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.
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.
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 plan modification subsequently approved by the Director of Planning
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and Building Services, provided the signage complies with this title.
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.
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