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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-06-12 - AGENDA REPORTS - POLITICAL SIGNS (2)Agenda Item: 1 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA AGENDA REPORT NEW BUSINESS City Manager Approval: Item to be presented by: Joe Montes DATE: June 12, 2012 SUBJECT: POLITICAL SIGNS DEPARTMENT: City Manager's Office RECOMMENDED ACTION City Council confirm that the Council's intent is for staff to issue administrative citations to anyone that seeks to retrieve their signs from the City. Further, in the event such signs are not retrieved within 14 days, staff is to destroy the retrieved signs. BACKGROUND Because Ordinance No. 11-5 indicates that the City "may" issue administrative citations in connection with retrieval of signs removed from public property, City staff is seeking confirmation that the Council's intent is for staff to issue administrative citations to anyone that seeks to retrieve their signs from the City. Further, in the event such signs are not retrieved within 14 days, staff is to destroy the retrieved signs. In March of 2011, the City Council updated the City's sign code to address issues associated with the posting of temporary freestanding non-commercial signs in the City. Councilmember Boydston raised several issues associated with the updated ordinance, in connection with the placement of temporary freestanding non-commercial signs during the latest Council election. A copy of a letter sent from Councilmember Boydston to the City Clerk is attached for your reference. A copy of the Ordinance adopted by the City Council is also attached for your reference. City staff has agendized this topic for direction from the City Council to seek confirmation as to the method of enforcing the March 2011 Ordinance. By way of background, prior to March of 2011, the City's sign code regulated "political signs" as 8APPROWED a separate category of signage. The issue of the City's ability to regulate such signage was raised at the March 9, 2010 Council meeting, where the City Attorney expressed concern about the City's ability to regulate such signs under the Constitution. Based upon caselaw, the regulation of signage based upon the content of a sign's message is limited. In March of 2011, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 11-5 as a means of restricting signs placed within the public right of way, as well as on private property. Rather than regulate "political signs" as a separate category, the code was amended to address a broader category of signage to balance the constitutional issues with the City's concerns about proliferation of signs and methods of enforcement. Commercial vs. Non -Commercial The Santa Clarita Municipal Code now makes a distinction between commercial and non-commercial signs. The law allows distinctions to be made between commercial and non-commercial speech. Non-commercial signage is afforded more Constitutional protection than commercial signage. As a result, on private property, temporary freestanding commercial signs are not allowed in the City, while temporary non-commercial freestanding signs are allowed, subject to certain restrictions. On public property, neither commercial nor non-commercial signage is allowed. Private Property vs. Public Property On private property, cities can adopt reasonable time, place and manner restrictions on signage for aesthetic purposes to control visual blight and clutter. The amendments contained in Ordinance No. 11-5 limit the size and number of non-commercial signs on private property. In terms of enforcement, any violation of the ordinance is pursued by the City's Code Enforcement personnel through normal code enforcement procedures, as any other code violation on private property would be pursued. Signage is not removed from private property by Code Enforcement personnel. With regard to signs placed within public rights of way or on public property, Santa Clarita Municipal Code Section 11. 12.020 prohibits the placement of signs within the public right of way or on public property. Pursuant to section 11.12.060, when signs are found within the public right of way, they can be removed by City personnel and stored. Notice is then given to the owner of the sign. Section 11.12.070(B) provides that the City may issue administrative citations for a violation of section 11.12.020. The fines are set forth in that section—and as set forth, any and all violations during the first day of enforcement would be subject to one fine of $50. Thereafter, the fine for a second violation is subject to a $100 fine, and a third and all subsequent violations are subject to a $250 fine. Pursuant to section 11.12.060(c), after notice of removed signs is sent, anyone wishing to pick up signs must first pay any fine imposed pursuant to section 11.12.070(B). Any fines imposed and paid may be appealed in the same manner as other administrative citations pursuant to chapter 23.20 of the municipal code. If the signs are not picked up, no fine will be imposed, and after ten days the signs may be destroyed. (Please note that the City has not yet destroyed any campaign signs that were removed from the public right of way within the last two months.) Because City staff cannot observe all public rights of way at all times, the ordinance operates in much the same way a parking restriction operates—the owner of a vehicle is responsible for the parking fine, regardless of whether they were witnessed illegally parking the vehicle, and even if they gave their car to someone else to use or park. To the extent they no longer own the car, they would not be responsible for the fines associated with illegal parking. To the extent signs are given away, the former owner of those signs is not liable for any fines associated with those signs. However, if the signs are claimed, the party claiming those signs is also assuming the responsibility for their placement within the right of way as the owner of those signs. At the same time, there may be times when circumstances indicate a fine should not be imposed, which is why the municipal code provides for an administrative review and appeal under sections 23.20.120 and 23.20.150 (also attached for your reference). The Latest Election With regard to signs referenced in Councilmember Boydston's letter, City Code Enforcement personnel removed the following signs from public property (with the associated fines listed) and if administrative citations are issued, the fine amount would be: TimBen Boydston Total of 30 signs A complaint was received on 3/5/2012 re: signs on ROW. Two (2) signs were confirmed affixed to a utility pole located on the ROW and signs were removed by staff. A formal notice was sent on 3/5/2012 to Councilmember Boydston. On 4/10/2012 twenty eight (28) Boydston signs were removed from the ROW no follow up notice was issued. Per the current code if Councilmember Boydston wanted his signs back he would owe the City $2,850.00 Jon Hatami Total of 12 signs A complaint was received on 3/13/2012 re: signs on ROW. Six (6) signs were confirmed located on ROW and removed by staff. A formal notice was sent on 3/14/2012 to Mr. Hatami. On 4/4/2012 four (4) Hatami signs were removed from the ROW and a second notice was issued on 4/10/2012. On 4/10/2012 (2) two Hatami Signs were removed from the ROW. Per the current code if Mr. Hatami wanted his signs back he would owe the City $650.00 Laurie Ender Total of 9 signs On 4/10/2012 nine (9) Ender signs were removed from the ROW no follow up notice was 3 issued. Per the current code if Ms. Ender wanted her signs back she would owe the City $50.00 Bob Kellar Total of 1 sign On 4/10/2012 one (1) Kellar sign was removed from the ROW no follow up notice was issued. Per the current code if Councilmember Kellar wanted his sign back he would owe the City $50.00 Ed Colley No signs were confiscated. Letters were not sent for the removal of those election signs as it was election day and questions were being analyzed as it related to enforcement. The City Council will provide direction on the enforcement at the next City Council meeting. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS Other actions as determined by City Council. FISCAL IMPACT Should anyone appeal the administrative citations, the City would incur the cost of hiring a hearing officer pursuant to the Administrative Citation provisions of the Municipal Code, as well as staff time involved in the appeal hearing. ATTACHMENTS Boydston Letter Ordinance 11-5 Staff Report - February 22, 2011 SCMC Sections 23.20.120 and 23.20.150 Photographs March 7, 2012 RE: Warning Notice Case No: CE -12-0277 Dear Ms. Gorman, As the City Clerk in charge of the prosecution of a fair election, I believe this reply to a Warning Notice that I received from the City should go to you. Please forward to any and all City Departments that you feel are needed to craft a response, and to make sure that the City is not violating the political freedom of speech laws guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States. 1 received via first class mail last night a Warning Notice from the City of Santa Clarita. 1) It says that I need to respond to the notice and remove all signs from public right of way within 36 hours, but it does not say where those signs may be located if there are any. It indicates that the signs pictured have already been picked up, is that correct? 2) 1 am being asked to provide written documentation/authorization of ownership of such signs. Please tell me what that documentation would need to be, other than the fact that my name is on those signs which you have pictured. 3) At the bottom of the letter it states that a re -inspection of my property will occur. Which property of mine are you talking about? 4) 1 am being threatened with costs associated with this enforcement. Which costs would that be, and what amount of money will you be asking for? The threat of fines and undefined costs against my campaign will have a chilling effect upon my freedom of political free speech. 5) Be aware that I have not placed the signs in question, nor any other signs in any area which I believe to be on a Public Highway right of way. I do not know who has placed the signs in question, or any other signs that the letter seems to allude to. 6) Also be aware that we have given out hundreds of lawn sign size signs to a multitude of people, so we do not know who may be putting signs where. We are also aware that our signs are being stolen, so the possibility exists that our opponents may be stealing our signs and putting them in public right of ways with the express purpose of costing us a great deal of money. Once again the threat of large costs to my campaign means that I may be unable to express my freedom of political free speech. 7) Since there are threats of fines of unspecified amounts, please provide evidence of who has placed the above named signs in the right of way. 8) In a related matter, please be aware that your sign ordinance with reference to campaign sign size contradicts the opinion given to the City Council by the City Attorney on March 9, 2010. Please let me know if the City Attorney Office has changed has changed it's mind, and why. The incumbents on the City Council who were running in the last election ignored the laws that were given to the candidates and said that they did not apply, and I do not want that to happen in this race. 9) Please be advised that I do not want my political signs destroyed, and if you do so I believe that my freedom of free political speech is also being destroyed. Thank you, TimBen Boydston ORDINANCE NO. 11-5 ' AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA APPROVING MASTER CASE 10-046, ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION, AND AMENDING TITLE 11 AND TITLE 17 OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE REGULATION OF TEMPORARY. NON-COMMERCIAL SIGNS. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Amendments of Chapters 11.12 and 17.19 of the Municipal Code. Chapter 11.12 of Title 11 and Sections 17.19.050 and '17.19.230 of Title 17 of the City of Santa Clarita Municipal. Code are amended and restated to read as follows: Chapter 11.12 INTERFERENCE WITH CITY PROPERTY OR NOTICES 11.12.010 Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited - Exception. 11.12.020 Posting Signs and •Defacing Property Prohibited When. 11.12.030 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited Exceptions. 11.12.040 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited When. ' 11.12.050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers - Storage Requirements. 11.12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. 11.12.070 Violation - Penalty. 1 L. 12.010. Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited—Exception: No person shall intentionally deface, tear down, obliterate or destroy any copy, transcript or extract of or from any ordinance of the City which shall be posted in, on or along any highway or other public place, or any proclamation, advertisement or notice set up at any place by authority of any ordinance of the City, before the expiration of the time in which such proclamation, advertisement or notice was to remain set up. 11. 12.020 Posting Signs and Defacing Property Prohibited When. No person shall paint, post, attach or affix any handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement upon or to any bridge, fence, building, traffic signals, stop signs or other property belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, or in any public right of way; and no person shall deface, mar or disfigure any bridge, fence, building or other structure belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, by painting, cutting, scratching or breaking the same or attaching or affixing anything thereto. 11.12.030 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited. No person shall erect, construct, place or maintain any signboard, billboard, sign or advertisement in, over or on any public highway or other public right of way of the City. 11. 12.040 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited When. A. A person, other than a City agent, official or employee, shall not carry any aerosol can of paint into or upon any City -owned building, grounds, park or other facility without the permission of the City officer in charge. For the purposes of this section, a public highway is not a City -owned facility. B. No person shall sell, exchange, give or loan, or permit to be sold, exchanged, given or ' loaned, any pressurized can containing any substance commonly known as paint or dye to anyone under the age of eighteen (18) years, unless such person be the parent, legal guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher of the minor. No person under the age of eighteen (18) years of age shall purchase any pressurized can containing paint or dye except from his or her parent, legal .guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher. 11. 12.050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers - Storage Requirements. Any business or establishment offering for sale to the public aerosol paint containers shall keep, store and maintain such aerosol paint containers in a place that is locked and secure, or otherwise made unavailable to the public. 11. 12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. A. The sheriff or an agent of the Department of Community Development shall remove or cause to be removed every handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement painted, posted, attached or affixed contrary to the provisions of Section 11.12.020 or 11.12.030. No notice is required for such removal. B. Any signboard, billboard or sign placed or maintained in violation of Section 11.12.020 or 11.12.030 and removed pursuant to this section, except any sign of de minimis value, shall be held by the City in storage and. the owner or other person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign must be given ten (10) days written notice to reclaim such signboard, billboard or sign. In the event the City, after making reasonable efforts, is unable to identify the owner or person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, ' billboard or sign, no notice is required. C. In order to reclaim a signboard, billboard or sign removed by the City pursuant to this .section, the .owner .or,person in.control.of.such signboard,. billboard or sign -must first pay.to.the City any fine imposed pursuant to Section 11.12.070(B). D. The City may destroy any signboard, billboard or sign that is not reclaimed after ten (10) days if the City has provided the written notice required by subsection B of this section. E. If the City has not provided the written notice required by subsection B of.this section because the City, after making reasonable efforts, is unable to identify the owner or person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign, the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign will be presumed to be abandoned and may be destroyed by the City within ten (10) days after removal by the City. F. Any sign of de minimis value placed or maintained in violation of Section 11.12.020 or 11.12.030 will be deemed to be abandoned and may be destroyed by the City after removal without notice. For purposes of this section, a sign of de minimis value is any handbill, dodger, or leaflet. 11.12.070 Violation—Penalty. A. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter constitutes a misdemeanor and in addition to any other available penalties or remedies will be subject to the penalties set forth in Chapter 23.10 of this code. B. If an administrative citation is issued for a violation of Section 11.12.020 or 11.12.030 in lieu of any criminal citation that could have been issued for the same violation, such violation ' shall be punishable as follows: 2 1 1. A fine not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) total for the day in which the first violation occurs; 2. Subsequent to the date of the first violation, a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100.00) for a second violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation; 3. A'fine not exceeding two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00).for each additional violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation. 17.19.050 Signs Not Requiring a Sign Permit. The following signs do not require a sign permit under Section 17.19.060, Administration, nor will the area of such signs be included in the maximum area of signs permitted; provided, however, that each such sign shall comply with all applicable requirements of this chapter. The intent of this section is to avoid unnecessary or time-consuming review procedures where certain permitted signs are minor or temporary or the erection of such sign does not require review for compliance with the City's building or electrical codes. A. Construction signs. B. Hand-held signs. C. Incidental business signs. D. Real estate signs. E. Temporary freestanding signs permitted by Section 17.19.230. F. Window signs. ' 17.19.230 Temporary Freestanding Signs. Temporary freestanding signs are permitted in all zones subject to the following regulations: A. Number. and Time Limits. . 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any time. 2. In the R Zone. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any time. B. Area. 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. A maximum area for each temporary freestanding noncommercial sign of thirty two (32) square feet and a maximum aggregate area for all temporary freestanding noncommercial signs on an individual parcel or within a commercial center of two hundred (200) square feet is permitted. 2. In the R Zone. A maximum area for each temporary freestanding noncommercial sign of thirty two (32) square feet and a maximum aggregate area for all temporary freestanding noncommercial signs on an individual parcel of land of one hundred (100) square feet is permitted. C. Location. Signs may be placed in the front yard or side yard of any property; provided, that the signs do not encroach into any public right-of-way. Unless otherwise authorized in this chapter, temporary signs shall not extend over or into any public right-of-way, street, alley, sidewalk or other public thoroughfare. ' D. Lighting. Signs shall not be lighted. E. Removal. All temporary freestanding signs must be removed within ten (10) days after the event for which they are intended. I9 SECTION 2. Amendment to Section 17.19.020 of the Municipal Code. ' The definition of "Sign, Campaign' is deleted from section 17.19.020 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code. SECTION 3. California Environmental Quality Act Findings. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the City Council hereby find as follows: a. An Initial Study and a Negative Declaration for this project have been prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); b. The Initial Study has been circulated for review and comment by affected governmental agencies and the public, and all comments received, if any, have been considered. The Negative Declaration was posted and advertised on October 12, 2010, in accordance with CEQA. The public review period was open from October 12, 2010, through November 2, 2010; C. There is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment. The Negative Declaration reflects the independent judgment of the City of Santa Clarita; d. The documents and other material which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the decision of the Planning Commission is made is the Master Case ' 10-046 project file located within the Community Development Department and is in the custody of the Director of Community Development; and e. The Planning Commission, based upon the findings set forth above, hereby finds that the Negative Declaration for this project has been prepared in compliance wiih CEQA. SECTION 4. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision will not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council declares that it would have passed this ordinance and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional. SECTION 5. Publication. The City Clerk is directed to cause this ordinance to be published in the manner required by law. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 22 day of February 2011. DATE 3/q /4^O t I 16 STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) I, Kevin Tonoian, Acting City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance 11 -5 was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 8th day of February 2011. That thereafter, said Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 22nd day of February 2011, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Kellar, Ender, Ferry, Weste, McLean NOES: . COUNCILMEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance 11-5 and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40"). CLERK STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) ' COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) CERTIFICATION OF CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE I, , City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of the original Ordinance 11-5, adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, CA on February 22, 2011, which is now on file in my office. Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this _ day of 2011. City Clerk Ey Deputy City Clerk 7 11-,-- Agenda Item: 13, CITY OF SANTA CLARITA AGENDA REPORT CONSENT CALENDAR City Manager Approval: Item to be presented by: Patrick Leclair DATE: February 22, 2011 SUBJECT: SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND TITLE 11 AND TITLE 17 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE REGULATING THE USE OF TEMPORARY, NON-COMMERCIAL SIGNS IN THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA DEPARTMENT: Community Development RECOMMENDED ACTION City Council conduct second reading and adopt an ordinance entitled, "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA APPROVING MASTER CASE 10-046, ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION, AND AMENDING TITLE 11 AND TITLE 17 OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE REGULATION OF TEMPORARY, NON-COMMERCIAL SIGNS." BACKGROUND At the January 25, 2011, City Council meeting, the City Council opened the public hearing and continued the item to the February 8, 2011, City Council Meeting. At the February 8, 2011 meeting, the City Council continued the public hearing and introduced and passed to second reading, an ordinance to amend Title 11 and Title 17 of the Municipal Code to address the use of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City of Santa Clarita, along with the penalties for the illegal installation of such signs. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS Other action as determined by the City Council. /3 FISCAL IMPACT No direct fiscal impact is anticipated with the proposed amendments. ATTACHMENTS Ordinance - Exhibit "A" - Proposed Changes Negative Declaration and Initial Study a ORDINANCE NO. _ AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA APPROVING MASTER CASE 10-046, ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION, AND AMENDING TITLE 11 AND TITLE 17 OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE REGULATION OF TEMPORARY, NON-COMMERCIAL SIGNS. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Amendments of Chapters 11.12 and 17.19 of the Municipal Code. Chapter 11.12 of Title 11 and Sections 17.19.050 and 17.19.230 of Title 17 of the City of Santa Clarita Municipal Code are amended and restated to read as follows: Chapter 11.12 INTERFERENCE WITH CITY PROPERTY OR NOTICES 11.12.010 Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited - Exception. 11.12.020 Posting Signs and Defacing Property Prohibited When. 11.12.030 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited Exceptions. 11.12.040 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited When. 11:12.050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers - Storage Requirements. 11.12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. 11.12.070 Violation - Penalty. 11.12.010 Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited—Exception. No person shall intentionally deface, tear down, obliterate or destroy any copy, transcript or extract of or from any ordinance of the City which shall be posted in, on or along any highway or other public place, or any proclamation, advertisement or notice set up at any place by authority of any ordinance of the City, before the expiration of the time in which such proclamation, advertisement or notice was to remain set up. 11.12.020 Posting Signs and Defacing Property Prohibited When. No person shall paint, post, attach or affix any handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement upon or to any bridge, fence, building, traffic signals, stop signs or other property belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, or in any public right of way; and no person shall deface, mar or disfigure any bridge, fence, building or other structure belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, by painting, cutting, scratching or breaking the same or attaching or affixing anything thereto. 11.12.030 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited. No person shall erect, construct, place or maintain any signboard, billboard, sign or advertisement in, over or on any public highway or other public right of way of the City. 11.12.040 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited When, A. A person, other than a City agent, official or employee, shall not carry any aerosol can of paint into or upon any City -owned building, grounds, park or other facility without the permission of the City officer in charge. For the purposes of this section, a public highway is not a City -owned facility. B. No person shall sell, exchange, give or loan, or permit to be sold, exchanged, given or loaned, any pressurized can containing any substance commonly known as paint or dye to anyone under the age of eighteen (18) years, unless such person be the parent, legal guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher of the minor. No person under the age of eighteen (18) years of age shall purchase any pressurized can containing paint or dye except from his or her parent, legal, guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher. 11.12.050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers . Storage Requirements. Any business or establishment offering for sale to the public aerosol paint containers shall keep, store and maintain such aerosol paint containers in a place that is locked and secure, or otherwise made unavailable to the public. 11.12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. A. The sheriff or an agent of the Department of Community Development shall remove or cause to be removed every handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement painted, posted, attached or affixed contrary to the provisions of Section 11. 12.020 or 11.12.030. No notice is required for such removal. B. Any signboard, billboard or sign placed or maintained in violation of Section 11.12.020 or 11.12.030 and removed pursuant to this section, except any sign of de minimis value, shall be held by the City in storage and the owner or other person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign must be given ten (10) days written notice to reclaim such signboard, billboard or sign. In the event the City, after making reasonable efforts, is unable to identify the owner or person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign, no notice is required. C. In order to reclaim a signboard, billboard or sign removed by the City pursuant to this section, the owner or person in control of such signboard, billboard or sign must first pay to the City any fine imposed pursuant to Section 11.12.070(B). D. The City may destroy any signboard, billboard or sign that is not reclaimed after ten (10) days if the City has provided the written notice required by subsection B of this section. E. If the City has not provided the written notice required by subsection B of this section because the.City, after making reasonable efforts, is unable to identify the owner or person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign, the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign will be presumed to be abandoned and may be destroyed by the City within ten (10) days after removal by the City. F. Any sign of de minimis value placed or maintained in violation of Section 11.12.020 or 11.12.030 will be deemed to be abandoned and may be destroyed by the City after removal without notice. For purposes of this section, a sign of de minimis value is any handbill, dodger, or leaflet. 11.12.070 Violation—Penalty. A. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter constitutes a misdemeanor and in addition to any other available penalties or remedies will be subject to the penalties set forth in Chapter 23.10 of this code.. B. If an administrative citation is issued for a violation of Section 11. 12.020 or 11.12.030 in lieu of any criminal citation that could have been issued for the same violation, such violation shall be punishable as follows: 2 1. A fine not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) total for the day in which the first violation occurs; 2. Subsequent to the date of the first violation, a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100.00) for a second violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation; 3. A fine not exceeding two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) for each additional violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation. 17.19.050 Signs Not Requiring a Sign Permit. The following signs do not require a sign permit under Section 17.19.060, Administration, nor will the area of such signs be included in the maximum area of signs permitted; provided, however, that each such sign shall comply with all applicable requirements of this chapter. The intent of this section is to avoid unnecessary or time-consuming review procedures where certain permitted signs are minor or temporary or the erection of such sign does not require review for compliance with the City's building or electrical codes. A. Construction signs. B. Hand-held signs. C. Incidental business signs. D. Real estate signs. E. Temporary freestanding signs permitted by Section 17.19.230. F. Window signs. 17.19.230 Temporary Freestanding Signs. Temporary freestanding signs are permitted in all zones subject to the following regulations: A. Number and Time Limits. 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any time. 2. In the R Zone. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any time. B. Area. 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. A maximum area for each temporary freestanding noncommercial sign of thirty two (32) square feet and a maximum aggregate area for all temporary freestanding noncommercial signs on an individual parcel or within a commercial center of two hundred (200) square feet is permitted. 2. In the R Zone. A maximum area for each temporary freestanding noncommercial sign of thirty two (32) square feet and a maximum aggregate area for all temporary freestanding noncommercial signs on an individual parcel of land of one hundred (100) square feet is permitted. C. Location. Signs may be placed in the front yard or side yard of any property; provided, that the signs do not encroach into any public tight -of -way. Unless otherwise authorized in this chapter, temporary signs shall not extend over or into any public right-of-way, street, alley, -sidewalk or other public thoroughfare. D. Lighting. Signs shall not be lighted. E. Removal. All temporary freestanding signs must be removed within ten (10) days after the event for which they are intended. 1-7 3 SECTION 2. Amendment to Section 17.19.020 of the Municipal Code. The definition of "Sign, Campaign" is deleted from section 17.19.020 of the Santa Clarita Municipal Code. SECTION 3. California Environmental Ouality Act Findings. Based upon the foregoing facts and findings, the City Council hereby find as follows: a. An Initial Study and a Negative Declaration for this project have been prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); b. The Initial Study has been circulated for review and comment by affected governmental agencies and the public, and all comments received, if any, have been considered. The Negative Declaration was posted and advertised on October 12, 2010, in accordance with CEQA. The public review period was open from October 12, 2010, through November 2, 2010; C. There is no substantial evidence that the project will have a significant effect on the environment. The Negative Declaration reflects the independent judgment of the City of Santa Clarita; d. The documents and other material which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the decision bf the Planning Commission is made is the Master Case 10-046 project file located within the Community Development Department and is in the custody of the Directof of Community Development; and e. The Planning Commission, based upon the findings set forth above, hereby finds that the Negative Declaration for this project has been prepared in compliance with CEQA. SECTION 4. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision will not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council declares that it would have passed this ordinance and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional. SECTION 5. Publication. The City Clerk is directed to cause this ordinance to be published in the manner required by law. PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of 2011. luOven. ATTEST: ACTING CITY CLERK STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) ss. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) I, Kevin Tonoian, Acting City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance 11- was regularly introduced and placed upon its first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 8th day of February 2011. That thereafter, said Ordinance was duly passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 22nd day of February 2011, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: AND I FURTHER CERTIFY that the foregoing is the original of Ordinance and was published in The Signal newspaper in accordance with State Law (G.C. 40806). ACTING CITY CLERK STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES CITY OF SANTA CLARITA ) CERTIFICATION OF CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE I, , City Clerk of the City of Santa Clarita, do hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of the original Ordinance 11- , adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Clarita, CA on 2011, which is now on file in my office. Witness my hand and seal of the City of Santa Clarita, California, this _ day of 2011. City Clerk By Deputy City Clerk 7 �a r Exhibit "A" Master Case 10-046 Unified Development Code Amendment 10-003 -17.19.020 Definitions. rocumccnocr. 17.19.050 Siens Not Reauirine a Sian Permit. The following signs do not require a sign permit under Section 17.19.060, Administration, nor will the area of such signs be included in the maximum area of signs permitted; provided, however, that each such sign shall comply with all applicable requirements of this chapter. The intent of this section is to avoid unnecessary or time- consuming review procedures where certain permitted signs are minor or temporary or the erection of such sign does not require review for compliance with the City's building or electrical codes. A. Gampaiga signs-. A. Construction signs. G B. Hand-held signs. D- C. Incidental business signs. I` D. Real estate signs. E. Temporary freestanding signs permitted by Section 17.19.230. Fr. F.F. Window signs. 17.19.230 Temporary Freestanding Signs. Temporary freestanding signs are permitted in all zones subject to theYfollowing regulations: A. Number and Time Limits. 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any time. 2. In the R Zone. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any time. B. Area. 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. A maximum area permitted: for each temporary freestanding non-commercial sign of thirty-two two hundred (200) square feet is permitted. 2. InAhe R Zone. A maximum area of six (" ..,...,,_.. feet shall be ..eFmittea for each temporary freestanding non-commercial sign of thirty-two (32) square feet and a maximum aggregate area for all temporary freestanding non-commercial JC; Sims on an individual parcel of land of one hundred (100)square feet is permitted. E. Height The height shall be feuf /Al feet. D- C. Location. Signs may be placed in the front yard or side yard of any property; provided, that the signs do not encroach into any public right-of-way. Unless otherwise authorized in this chapter, temporary signs shall not extend over or into any public right-of-way, street, alley, sidewalk or other public thoroughfare. E— A Lighting. Signs shall not be lighted. E Removal All temporary freestanding signs must be removed within ten (1 0) days after the event for which they are intendcd. ,d3 Chapter 11. 12 INTERFERENCE WITH CITY PROPERTY OR NOTICES Sections: 11.12.010 Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited—Exception. t 1 1200 Violation De. ally 11.12.830 020 Posting Signs and Defacing Property Prohibited When. 11.12.048 030 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited Exceptions. 11.12.838 040 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited When. 11.12.033 050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers—Storage Requirements. 11.12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. 11.12.07Violation—Penalty. 11.12.010 Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited—Exception. No person shall intentionally deface, tear down, obliterate or destroy any copy, transcript or extract of or from any ordinance of.the City which shall be posted in, on or along any highway or other public place, or any proclamation, advertisement or notice set up at any place by authority of any ordinance of the City, before the expiration of the time in which such proclamation, advertisement or notice was to remain set up. Uial-stinn Penalty. X3&.80. 11.12.830 020 Posting Signs and Defacing Property Prohibited When. No person shall paint, post; attach or affix any handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement upon or to any bridge, fence, building, traffic signals, stop signs or other property belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, or in any public right of way; and no person shall deface, mar or disfigure any bridge, fence, building or other structure belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, by painting, cutting, scratching or breaking the same or attaching or affixing anything thereto. 11.12.040 030 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited l*eeptiens. No person shall erect, construct, place or maintain any signboard, billboard, sign or advertisement in, over or on any public highway or other public right of way of the City. 11.12.050 040 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited- When. A. A person; other than a City agent, official or employee, shall not carry any aerosol can of paint into or upon any City -owned building, grounds, park or other facility without the permission of the City officer in charge. For the purposes of this section, a public highway is not a City -owned facility. .B. No person shall sell, exchange, give or loan, or permit to be sold, exchanged, given or loaned, any pressurized can containing any substance commonly known as paint or dye to anyone under the age of eighteen (18) years, unless such person be the parent, legal guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher of the minor. No person under the age of eighteen (18) years of age shall purchase any pressurized can containing paint or dye except from his or her parent, legal guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher. E. Vielatien of this efien is a imide-' aq 11.12.855 050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers—Storage Requirements. Any business or establishment offering for sale to the public aerosol paint containers shall keep, store and maintain such aerosol paint containers in a place that is locked and secure, or otherwise made unavailable to the public. 11.12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. A. The sheriff or an agent of the Department of Community Development shall remove or cause to be removed every handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement painted, posted, attached or affixed contrary to the provisions of Section 11 12.930 020 or 11. 12.949 030. B. Any Signboard billboard or sign placed or maintained in violation of Section 11. 12 020 or 11 12 030 and removed pursuant to this section, except any sign of de minimus value, shall be held by the City in storage and the owner or other person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign must bg ig yen of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign. no notice is required. C. In order to reclaim a signboard billboard or sign removed by the City pursuant to this section the owner or person in control of such signboard, billboard or sign must first pay to the City any fine imposed pursuant to Section 1 112.070(B). D. The City may destroy any signboard billboard or sign that is not reclaimed after ten section. E. If the City does not provide the written notice required by subsection B of this section because the City, after making reasonable efforts, is unable to identify the owner or person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard billboard or sign will be presumed to be abandoned and may be destroyed by City within ten (10) days after removal by the City. F. Any sign of de minimus value placed or maintained in violation of Section 11. 12.020 or 11 12.030 will be deemed to be abandoned and may be destroyed by the City after removal without notice For purposes of this section. a sign of de minimus value is any handbill, dodger, or leaflet. 11.12.070 Violation—Penalty. A. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter constitutes a misdemeanor and in addition to any other available penalties or remedies will be subject to the penalties set forth in Chapter 23.10 of this code. B. If an administrative citation is issued for a violation of Section 11.12.020 or 11. 12.030 in lieu of any criminal citation that could have been issued for the same violation, such violation shall be punishable as follows: 1. A fine not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) total for the day in which the first violation occurs: 2. Subsequent to the date of the first violation a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100.00) for a second violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation. 3. A fine not exceeding two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) for each additional violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation. 4 CITY OF SANTA CLARITA NEGATIVE DECLARATION [X] Proposed [ ] Final MASTER CASE NO: Master Case 10-.046 PERMIT/PROJECT NAME: Unified Development Code Amendment 10-003 APPLICANT: City of Santa Clarita 23920 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 302 Valencia, CA 91355 LOCATION OF THE PROJECT: Citywide DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT: The City of Santa Clarha is preparing an amendment to Chapters 11 and 17 of the City's Municipal Code addressing the regulation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. This subsection would provide provisions for the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs including the maximum sign area permitted for each sign, the maximum aggregate sign area permitted on a private parcel, and the timeline for removal of signs. Based on the information contained in the Initial Study prepared for this project, and pursuant to the requirements of Section 15070 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Cityof Santa Clarita [X] City Council [ ] Planning Commission [ ] .Director of Planning and Building Services finds that the project as proposed or revised will have no significant effect upon the environment, and that a Negative Declaration shall be adopted pursuant to Section 15070 of CEQA. Mitigition measures for this prof ect [ ] Are Not Required [ ] Are Attached [X] Are Not Attached Lisa M. Webber, AICP PLANNING MC Prepared by Patrick Leclair, Associate Pl atgr) anner (Sign(Name/Title) Approved b M V N 1O YV \/ Jeff Hooau, AICP. Senior Planner (Name/Title) Public RevievkPeliod From October 12, 2010 To November 2, 2010 Public Notice en On Ober 12, 2010 [X] Legal Advertisement [ ] Posting of Properties [ ] Written Notice CERTIFICATION DATE: SACM ctmxarM!2010wC S& A. C Sig, DrA 20 a� INITIAL STUDY CITY OF SANTA CLARITA Project Title/Master Case Number: Master Case 10-046 . Unified Development Code Amendment (UDC 10-003) Lead Agency name and address: City of Santa Clarita 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302 Santa Clarita; CA 91355 Contact person and phone number: Patrick Leclair Associate Planner (661)255-4330 Project location: Citywide Applicant's name and address: City of Santa Clarita 23920 Valencia Blvd., Suite 302 Santa Clarita, CA 91355 General Plan designation: N/A Zoning: N/A Description of project and setting: The City of Santa Clarita is preparing an amendment to Chapters 11 and 17 of the City's Municipal Code (MC) to address the placement of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. Amendments are proposed to Chapter 11 to address the penalties associated with the illegal placement of these signs,, while amendments are proposed to Chapter 17 to establish a maximum sign area for signs on a private parcel of land, as well as an aggregate sign area for the total sign area permitted for temporary, non-commercial signs. The changes proposed to Chapters 11 and 17 are shown below with all language proposed for removal stfieken eet and all proposed language underlined: Chapter 11.12 INTERFERENCE WITH CITY PROPERTY OR NOTICES Sections: 11.12.010 Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited—Exception. �1- Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 2 of 29 !142.020 Viela a Penalty. 11.12.039 020 Posting Signs and Defacing Property Prohibited When. 11.12.040 Q30 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited Exceptions. 11.12.030 Q40 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited When. 11.12.033 050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers— Storage Requirements. 11.12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. 11.12.070 Violation Penalty. 11.12010 Removing or Defacing Official Notices Prohibited-Exeeption. No person shall intentionally deface, tear down, obliterate or destroy any copy, transcript or extract of or from any ordinance of the City which shall be posted in, on or along any highway or other public place, or any proclamation, advertisement or notice set up at any place by authority of any ordinance of the City, before the expiration of the time in which such proclamation, advertisement or notice was to remain set up. 11.11020 Violatie 11.12.039 020 Posting Signs and Defacing Property Prohibited When. No person shall paint, post, attach or affix any handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement upon or to any bridge, fence, building, traffic signals, stop signs or other property belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, or in any public right of way, and no person shall deface, mar or disfigure any bridge, fence, building or other structure belonging to the City, or any tree situated in any public highway of the City, by painting, cutting, scratching or brealdng the same or attaching or affixing anything thereto. 11.12.940 030 Signs or Billboards on Public Highways Prohibited Exeeptions. No person shall erect, construct, place or maintain any signboard, billboard, sign or advertisement in, over or on any public highway or other public right of way of the City. 11.12.059 040 Paint in Aerosol Cans Prohibited When. Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 3 of 29 A. A person, other than a City agent, official or employee, shall not carry any aerosol can of paint into or upon any City -owned building, grounds, park or other, facility without the permission of the City officer in charge. For the purposes of this section, a public highway is not a City -owned facility. B. No person shall sell, exchange, give or loan, or permit to be sold, exchanged, given or loaned, any pressurized can containing any substance commonly known as paint or dye to anyone under the age of eighteen (18) years, unless such person be the parent, legal guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher of the minor. No person under the age of eighteen (18) years of age shall purchase any pressurized can containing paint or dye except from his or her parent, legal guardian, employer or state -credentialed teacher. G. Irieiaaosvi atisseecvfissa faisdemeffier. 11.12.066 050 Sale of Aerosol Paint Containers— Storage Requirements. Any business or establishment offering for sale to the public aerosol paint containers shall keep, store and maintain such aerosol paint containers in a place that is locked and secure, or otherwise made unavailable to the public. 11.12.060 Removal of Unauthorized Signs. A. The sheriff or an agent of the Department of Community Development shall remove or cause to be removed every handbill, dodger, notice, sign or advertisement painted, posted, attached or affixed contrary to the provisions of Section 11. 12.030 020 or 11.12.940 030. B. Any Signboard. billboard or si tg_r placed or maintained in violation of Section 11. 12.020 or 11. 12.030 and removed pursuant to this section, except any siggof de minimus value, shall be held by the Citv in storage and the owner or other person in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign must be given ten (10) days written notice to reclaim such signboard, billboard or sign. In the event the City, after making reasonable efforts, is unable to identify the owner ori)erson in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboar& billboard or sia no notice is required. C. In order to reclaim a signboard billboard or sign removed by the City pursuant to this section, the owner 2-3 Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 4 of 29 or person in control of such signboard, billboard or sien must first pay to the City any fine imposed pursuant to Section 11.12,070B1. D. The City may destroy any simboard, billboard or sign that is not reclaimed after ten (10) days if the City has provided the written notice required by subsection B of this section. Is. If the City does not provide the written notice required by subsection B of this section because the City, after making reasonable efforts, is unable to identify the owner or Berson in control of the illegally placed or maintained signboard, billboard or sign will be presumed to be abandoned and maybe destroyed by the City within ten Ll 0) days after removal by the City. F. Any sign of de minimus value placed or maintained in violation of Section 11.12.020 or 11.12.030 will be deemed to be abandoned and may be destroyed by the City after removal without notice For purposes of this section a sign of de minimus value is anv handbill. dodger, or leaflet. 11.12.070 Violation—Penalty. A. Any violation of the provisions of this chapter constitutes a misdemeanor and in addition to any other available penalties or remedies will be subject to the penalties set forth in Chapter 23.10 of this code. B. If an'administrative citation is issued for a violation of Section 11. 12.020 or 11.12.030 in lieu of any criminal citation that could have been issued for the same violation such violation shall bepunishable as follows: 1. A fine not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) total for the day in which the first violation occurs: 2. Subsequent to the date of the first violation, a fine not exceedine one hundred dollars ($100.00) for a second violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation. 3. A fine not exceeding two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) for each additional violation of the same provision within one year of the first violation. 17.19.230 Temporary Freestanding Signs. Temporary freestanding signs are permitted in all zones subject to the following regulations: A. Number and Time Limits. 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any Master Case 10-046 UDC 1D-003 Page 5 of 24 time. 2. In the R Zone. No temporary freestanding commercial signs permitted at any time. B. Area 1. In the C, I and OS Zones. A maximum area e tweh,e ( o) - _e feet sh„n be -°.anted for each temporary freestanding non-commercial sign of thirty-two (32) square feet and a maximum a2eregate area for all temporary freestanding non-commercial signs on an individual parcel or within a commercial center of two hundred (200) square feet is pgmr tied. 2. In the R Zone. A maximum area of si*{6) scfeare feet shall be for each temporary freestanding non-commercial simof thirty-two (32) square feet and a maximum aggregate area for all temporary freestanding non-commercial signs on an individual parcel of land of one hundred (100) square feet is 1ermitted. Height. feet. 1} C_Location. Signs may be placed in the front yard or side yard of any property; provided, that the signs do not encroach into any public right-of-way. Unless otherwise authorized in this chapter, temporary signs shall not extend over or into any public right-of-way, street, alley, sidewalk or other public thoroughfare. E— D. Lighting. Signs shall not be lighted.m E. Reoval. All campaign signs must be removed within ten (10) days after the election for which they are intended. Surrounding land uses: N/A Other public agencies whose N/A approval is required: A. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impace, or a "Less than Significant with Mitigation" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. [ ] Aesthetics [ ] Agriculture Resources [ ] Air Quality [ ] Biological Resources [ ] Cultural Resources [ ] Geology / Soils [) Hazards & Hazardous [ ] Hydrology / Water [ ] Land Use / Planning Materials Quality [) Mineral Resources [ ] Noise [ ] Population / Housing [ ] Public Services [ ] Recreation [ ] Transportation / Traffic [ ] Utilities / Service Systems [ ] Mandatory Findings of Significance B. 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 revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. [ ] I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. (] I find that the proposed project. MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed 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. An ENVIRONMENTAL: IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. Master Case 10<046 UDC 10-003 Page 7 of 29 [ ] I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECL TION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed,upon the propooject, ming further is required. 1015110. Date Date Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 8 of 29 C. EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation I. AESTHETICS - Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] not limited to, primary/secondary ridgelines, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or [ ] [ ] [ J [X] quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare that [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? e)Other [I [I [I [I II. AGRICULTURE AND FOREST RESOURCES — In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. In determining whether impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to information compiled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding the state's inventory of forest land, including the Forest and Range Assessment Project and the Forest Legacy Assessment project; and forest carbon measurement methodology provided in Forest Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources Board. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or [ ] Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 9 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] a Williamson Act contract? c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause rezoning of, forest land (as defined in Public Resources Code section 12220 (g)), timberland (as defined by Public Resources Code section 4526), or. timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined by Government Code section 51104(g))? d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] forest land to non -forest use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment [ J [ ] .11 [XJ which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use? III. AIR QUALITY - Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the [ ] [ J [ ] [X] applicable air quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non -attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions that exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] concentrations? BUS Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 10 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial [ ] [ ] [ ] IN number of people? flOther [] [] [] [] IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES — Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally [ ] [ ] [ ] [X} protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsb, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any [ ] [ ] [ ] [Xj native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances [ ] [ ] (] [X] protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? Oak trees? Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 11 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat [ J [ ] [ ] [X] Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? g) Affect a Significant Ecological. Area (SEA) or Significant Natural Area (SNA) as identified on the [ ] City of Santa Clarita ESA Delineation Map? h) Other [ ] V. CULTURAL RESOURCES - Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the [ ] significance of a historical resource as defined in '15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the [ ] significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to 115064.5? C) Directly or indirectly destroy or impact a unique [ ] paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred [ J outside of formal cemeteries? e) Other [ ] VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS - Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial [ ] adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 12 of 29 i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the, most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial wind or, water soil erosion or the loss of topsoil, either on or off site? c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18- 1-13 of the Uniform Building Code (1997), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? J) Change in topography or ground surface relief features? g) Earth movement (cut and/or fill) of 10,000 cubic yards or more? Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation [) [] [] IN Pq [] [l [] IN [] L] [] [X] [] [] [] [X] [] [] [) [X) [] [) [l [X) [] [] [] [X] [] [) [] [X] [] [) [) [X) Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 13 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation h) Development and/or grading on a slope greater than [ ] [ J [ ] [X] 10% natural grade? i) The destruction, covering or modification of any [ ] [) [ ] [X] unique geologic or physical feature? j) Other [] [] I I VII. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS- Would the project: a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on [ ] [ ] [ ] IN the environment? b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] emissions of greenhouse gasses? VH1, HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS - Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the [] [] [ ] [X] environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the [ J [ ] [ ] [X] environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving explosion or the release of hazardous materials into the environment (including, but not limited ,to oil, pesticides, chemicals, fuels, or radiation)? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? 33 Master Case IM46 UDC 10-003 Page 14 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation e) For a project located within an airport land use plan [ J [ ] [ ] [X] or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, [ ] [ ] [ ] IN would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with [ ] ( ] J1 [m an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? i) Exposure of people to existing sources of potential [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] health hazards (e.g. electrical transmission lines, gas lines, oil pipelines)? j) Other IX. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY - Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] discharge requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or [ ] [ ] [ J [X] interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? LM I `` I Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 15 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with hupact Mitigation c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the [ ] [ J [ J [(J site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off- site? d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would [ ] [ ] (] [X] exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] g) Place housing within a 100 -year flood hazard area as [ ] [ ] [ J [Xj mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100 -year flood hazard area structures [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of j ] [ ] [ ] [X] loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] k) Changes in the rate of flow, currents, or the course [ ] [ J [ ] IN and direction of surface water and/or groundwater? i) Other modification of a wash, channel creek or river? [ ] [ ] [ ] IN 35 Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 16 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation 1) Impact Stormwater Management in any of the [ ] [ ] [I [X] following ways: i) Potential impact of project construction and [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] project post -construction activity on storm water runoff! ii) Potential discharges from areas for materials [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] 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? iii) Significant environmentally harmful increase in [ J [ ] [ ] [X] 'the flow velocity or volume of storm water runoff? iv) Significant and environmentally harmful [ ] [ J [ ] [X] increases in erosion of the project site or surrounding areas? v) Storm water discharges that would significantly [ ] [ ] [ ] IN impair or contribute to the impairment of the beneficial uses of receiving waters or areas that provide water quality benefits (e.g. riparian corridors, wetlands, etc.) A Cause harm to the biological integrity of drainage [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] systems, watersheds, and/or water bodies? vii) Does the proposed project include provisions [ ] [ ] [ ] IN for the separation, recycling, and reuse of materials both during construction and after project occupancy? X. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the project: Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 17 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation a) Disrupt or physically divide an established [ ] [ ] community (including a low-income or minority community)? b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or [ J [ ] regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation (] ( ] plan, natural community conservation plan, and/or policies by agencies with jurisdiction over the project? XI. MINERAL AND ENERGY RESOURCES - Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral [ ] [ ] resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally [ ] [ ] important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? c) Use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful . and [ ] [ ] inefficient manner? XII. NOISE - Would the project result'in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels [ ] [ ] in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive [] [] groundbome vibration or groundborne noise levels? [] [X] Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 18 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise [ ] [ ] [ j IN levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in [ ] (J [ ] [X] ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? e) For a project located within an airport land use plan [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? XIII. POPULATION AND HOUSING - Would the project: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere (especially affordable housing)? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? XIV. PUBLIC SERVICES - Would the project result in: 0 ��g Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 19 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with . Impact Mitigation a) Substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: i) Fire protection? [ ] [ J [ ] [X] ii) Police protection? [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] iii) Schools? [] [] [] [q iv) Parks? [ ] [.J [] [X7 XV. RECREATION - Would the project: a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood and [ ] [ ] [ J [X] regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Include recreational facilities or require the [ ] [ ] [] . CA construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? XVI. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC - Would the project: a) Conflict with an applicable plan, ordinance or policy [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of the circulation system, taking into account all modes of transportation including mass transit . and non -motorized travel and relevant components of the circulation system, including but not limited to intersections, streets, highways and freeways, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and mass transit? l� Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 20 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management [ ] [ ] program, including, but not limited to level of service standard and travel demand measures, or other standards established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including [ ] [ ] either an increase in traffic. levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature [ ] [ ] (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? e) Result in inadequate emergency access? [] f] fl [XI f) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs ( ] regarding public transit, bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities? g) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? ( ] XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS - Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the [ ] applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or [ ] wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm [ ] water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? F� �6 Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 21 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the [ ] project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? e) Result in a determination by the wastewater [ ] treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted [ ] capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE: a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? N [X] 4-7 Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 22 of 29 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact Impact with Impact Mitigation c) Does the project have environmental effects which [ ] [ ] [ ] [X] will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? XVII. DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME `DE MINIMUS' FINDING a) Will the project have an adverse effect either. [ J [ ] [ ] [X] 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 it's continued viability." 4 v Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 23 of 29 D. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND/OR EARLIER ANALYSIS: Section and Subsections Evaluation of Impacts I. AESTHETICS a. -d.) No Im act: The City of Santa Clarita is located within Southern California's Santa Clarita Valley, which is bounded by the San Gabriel Mountains to the south and east, the Santa Susana Mountains to the southwest, and the mountains of the Los Padres and Angeles National Forests to the north. The surrounding natural mountains and ridgelines, some of which extend into the City, provide a visual backdrop for much of the City. Other scenic resources within or visible from the City include the Santa Clara River corridor, forested/vegetated land, and a variety of canyons and natural drainages in portions of the City. The proposed amendments to the City's Municipal Code (MC) modify the regulations for temporary, non-commercial signs and further address the penalties for violating the proposed amendments. These amendments will regulate the installation of temporary signs in the City, maintaining the aesthetics of the community by eliminating the proliferation of signs throughout the City. Therefore, no impact to aesthetics is anticipated with these amendments. II. AGRICULTURE a. -e.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC are RESOURCES regulatory in nature addressing the regulation of temporary, non- commercial signs and will not affect any farmland identified by the California Resources Agency, farmland designated under a Williamson Act Contract, and will not convert any farmland to non- agricultural use. Further,.the amendments will not impact any forest lands, or any timberland zoned Timberland Production by the Government Code Section 51104(g). Therefore, the amendments are anticipated to have no impact on agricultural, farmland, or forest resources. III. AIR QUALITY a. -e.) No Impact: The City of Santa Clarita is within the South Coast Air Basin (SCAB), which is bounded by the San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains to the north and east, and the Pacific Ocean to the south and west. The air quality in the SCAB is managed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 24 of 29 The SCAB has a history of recorded air quality violations and is an area where both state and federal ambient air quality standards are exceeded. Because of the violations of the California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS), the California Clean Air Act requires triennial preparation of an Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP). The AQMP analyzes air quality on a regional level and identifies region -wide attenuation methods to achieve the air quality standards. These region -wide attenuation methods include regulations for stationary -source polluters; facilitation of new transportation technologies, such as low -emission vehicles; and capital improvements, such as park-and-ride facilities and public transit improvements. The most recently adopted plan is the 2007 AQMP, adopted on June 1, 2007. This plan is the South Coast Air Basin's portion of the State Irnplementation Plan (SIP). This plan is designed to implement the California Clean Air Act an in tum implement the Federal Clean Air Act administered by the EPA. The AQMP accommodates population growth and transportation projections based on the predictions made by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). Thus, projects that are consistent with employment and population forecasts are consistent with the AQMD. The proposed amendments to the MC will not alter any of the aforementioned measures directly in that the proposed amendments will address temporary, non-commercial signs within the City and do not address the construction of permanent structures that would have the potential to impact air quality. Further, the proposed amendments will not impact the City's current efforts to prepare and implement a Climate Action Plan. Therefore, no impact is anticipated to air quality as a result of the proposed amendments to the MC. W. BIOLOGICAL a. -g.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC, in and of RESOURCES themselves do not include the modification of any habitat and would not otherwise affect any candidate, sensitive or special status species identified by the Department of Fish and Game or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Further, the proposed MC amendments will not have any adverse affect on any riparian habitat, wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, or other biological resources. The proposed MC amendments address the establishment of provisions for temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. Therefore, the proposed MC amendments are anticipated to have no impact to biological resources. 6U; 4N Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 25 of 29 IYI V. CULTURAL a. -d.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC will not RESOURCES have any impact on cultural resources in the City of Santa Clarita. The proposed amendments will not alter any unique geological feature, paleontological resource, any human remains or affect any historical or archeological resource. The proposed amendments will establish provisions for the installation of temporary, non- commercial signs within the City. Therefore, no impact to archeological, historical or cultural resource would be caused by the proposed MC amendment. VL GEOLOGY AND a. -i.) No Impact — Southern California has numerous active and SOII,S potentially active faults that could affect the City. As stated in the City's General Plan, the City is susceptible to geologic hazards in the event of a major earthquake (magnitude 8.3) along the San Andreas Fault. This could result in ground failure and liquefaction. However, the proposed amendments to the MC would not change the requirements of future development to follow all state and City building codes/regulations. The proposed amendments address establishment of provisions for the installation of temporary, non- commercial signs in the City. Therefore, the proposed MC amendments would have no impact related to geology and soils. VII. GREENHOUSE a. -b.) No Impact - "Greenhouse gases" (so called because of their GAS EMISSIONS role in trapping heat near the surface of the earth) emitted by human activity are implicated in global climate change, commonly referred . to as "global warming." These greenhouse gases contribute to an increase in the temperature of the earth's atmosphere. The principal greenhouse gases (GHGs) include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane, and nitrous oxide. Collectively GHGs are measured as carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). Fossil fuel consumption in the transportation sector (on -road motor vehicles, off-highway mobile sources, and aircraft) is the single largest source of GHG emissions, accounting for approximately half of GHG emissions globally. Industrial and commercial sources are the second largest contributors of GHG emissions with about one-. fourth of total emissions. California has passed several bills and the Governor has signed at least three executive orders regarding greenhouse gases. GHG statues and executive orders EO include Assembly BillCAB)32, IYI Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 26 of 29 6s 1_ Senate Bill (SB) 1368, Executive Order (EO) S-03-05, EO S-20-06 and EO S-01-07. AB 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006, is one of the most significant pieces of environmental legislation that California has adopted. Among other things, it is designed to maintain California's reputation as a "national and international leader ' on energy conservation and environmental stewardship." Most notably AB 32 mandates that by 2020, California's GHG emissions be reduced to 1990 levels. The proposed amendments to the MC address the establishment of provisions for the installation of temporary, non-commereial signs. within the City. The proposed amendments will not allow for the construction of any structures or land uses that will have the potential to. impact the emission of GHG in the City. Further, the proposed amendments will not impact the City's preparation or implementation of a Climate Action Plan in the City. Therefore, the proposed amendments are anticipated to have no impact related to greenhouse gas emissions. VIII. HAZARDS AND a. -f) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC would not HAZARDOUS directly expose people to health hazards or hazardous materials and MATERIALS would not interfere with any emergency response plans. The proposed amendments address the establishment of provisions that regulate the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. Therefore, no impact is anticipated to hazards or hazardous materials as a result of the proposed amendments. IX. HYDROLOGY a.-1.) No Impact — The proposed project would not impact water AND WATER quality standards, nor affect groundwater supplies. The proposed QUALITY project is an amendment to the MC to establish provisions for the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. The amendments will not result in direct impacts on hydrology and water quality. Further, the proposed amendments are not anticipated to impact any 100 -year flood hazard area, tsunami, drainage pattern, or runoff of Stormwater Management systems. Therefore, the proposed amendments are anticipated to have no impact to hydrology and water quality. X. LAND USE AND a. -c.) No Impact: The purpose of these amendments is to provide 6s 1_ Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 27 of 29 PLANNING provisions for the establishment of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. The proposed amendments will not establish provisions to allow for, or discourage, development within the City and will therefore not impact land use or planning. Therefore, the amendments would have no impact on land use or planning. M. MINERAL AND a. -c.) No Impact — Gold mining and oil production historically have ENERGY been the principal mineral extraction activities in and around the RESOURCES Santa Clarita Valley. Other minerals found in the planning area include construction aggregate, titanium, and tuff. Mineral resources and extraction areas are shown in Exhibit OS -5 of the City's General Plan. The proposed MC amendment is not expected to affect mineral resources in the city. Therefore, no impact related to mineral and energy resources are anticipated with the proposed amendment. XII. NOISE a. -f.) No Impact — The proposed amendment to the UDC will not expose persons to the generation of a significant increase in noise levels, groundbome vibration, or increase ambient noise, including the location of persons in proximity to any airport, airfield, or heliport. The proposed amendments will establish provisions for the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. Therefore, no impact is anticipated to noise as a result of the proposed amendment. XIII. POPULATION a. -c.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC are not AND HOUSING anticipated to induce substantial population growth in the Santa Clarita Valley, either directly or indirectly, nor would any of the proposed provisions cause displacement of existing homes or people. The proposed amendment would establish provisions for the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. The proposed project is a regulatory adjustment and does not include any development activity at this time. ' The proposed MC amendments would not alter the City's population projections consistent with the City's General Plan. Therefore, the project would have no impact to population or housing. XIV. PUBLIC a)i.-iv. No Impact — The proposed amendments will not directly SERVICES increase the need for public services. The proposed amendments would establish provisions for the installation of temporary, non- commercial in the City. J� �r� Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 28 of 29 q.9 Therefore, no impact to public services is anticipated as a result of the proposed amendments. XIV. RECREATION a. -b.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC will not have any impact on recreational amenities within the City of Santa Clarita. The proposed amendments include the establishment of provisions for the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. The proposal regulatory adjustment and does not include any development activities at this time that would impact any recreational facilities or programs. Therefore, no impact to recreation is anticipated with the proposed amendments to the MC. XV. a. -g.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC are TRANSPORTATION I regulatory in nature and are not anticipated to impact traffic load or TRAFFIC capacity on the City's street systems. The proposed amendments are regulatory in nature, establishing provisions for the. installation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. Therefore, no impact to traffic is anticipated as a result of the proposed MC amendments. XVI. UTILITIES AND a. -g.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the City's MC do SERVICE SYSTEMS not include any new development at this time. Therefore, the project would not result in the construction of new water facilities, expansion of existing facilities, affect drainage patterns, water treatment services, and furthermore, no impacts to landfill capacity would occur. The proposed amendments establish provisions for the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs within the City and will not create any new demand for any utilities or utility systems. Therefore, no impact to utilities or service systems is anticipated as a result of the approval of the proposed amendments. 7Ml. MANDATORY. a. -c.) No Impact — The proposed amendments to the MC will not FINDINGS OF impact the environment and would not lead to a substantial reduction SIGNIFICANCE in habitat of a fish or wildlife species, or reduce or restrict the number of rare, threatened or endangered species. The proposed amendments do not remove any established City regulations that protect any plant and animal species. The proposal would, not contribute to any cumulative impacts and would not cause environmental effects that would adversely affect humans. Rather, the proposed MC amendments are intended to establish provisions q.9 Master Case 10-046 UDC 10-003 Page 29 of 29 s:\CD�CURRENT%12010WC AmeadmenawC signs Initial study 10-10.doc �9� for the installation of temporary, non-commercial signs in the City. XVIII. DEPARTMENT a.) No Impact — The legislative intent of the Department of Fish and OF FISH AND GAME Game `De Minimus' Finding is "to extend the current user -based `DE MINIMUS' funding system by allocating the transactional costs of wildlife FINDING protection and management to those who would consume those resources through urbanization and development..." (AB 3158, Chapter 1706, Statutes of 1990, effective January 1, 1991, Section 1(c)). However, the proposed MC amendments would. not entitle any new development; and any future development proposal seeking discretionary approval would remain subject to CEQA and the CDFG Code. Since,.the proposed amendments are not anticipated to have a significant adverse effect either individually or cumulatively, on fish and wildlife resources, the project's impacts on fish and wildlife are de minimus. s:\CD�CURRENT%12010WC AmeadmenawC signs Initial study 10-10.doc �9� Chapter 23.20 ADMINISTRATIVE CITATIONS 23.20.120 Initial Administrative Review—Request. Citees may request an initial administrative review of the citation within twenty (20) days of its issuance. This request must be made in writing to the Department Manager and set forth with particularity the reasons the citee believes a violation did not occur or that the citee was not responsible for the violation(s); must include a copy of the citation; and contain the address to which the conclusions of the City's review should be mailed. A request for an initial administrative review is a mandatory prerequisite to a request for an administrative hearing. (Ord. 04-8 § 2, 8/24/04) 23.20.130 Initial Administrative Review—Procedure. The Department Manager will forward initial administrative review requests to the Department Director supervising the Code Enforcement Officer who issued the administrative citation. (Ord. 04-8 § 2, 8/24/04) 23.20.140 Initial Administrative Review—Decision. A. Upon receiving these requests from the Department Manager, the reviewing officer will review the requests and provide the Clerk with a written notification that: 1. The citation should be vacated because there was no violation, or the citee was not responsible for the violation, and setting forth the basis for that conclusion; 2. There is no justification found for vacating the citation. B. The City Manager should mail a copy of the notification to the citee at the address on the request for initial administrative review along with notice establishing the fine due date and the procedure for requesting an administrative hearing. C. The reviewing officer should complete his/her review within ten (10) days of receiving the citee's request. (Ord. 04-8 § 2, 8/24/04) Article IV. Administrative Hearing Procedures 23.20.150 Request for Administrative Hearing. Any citee dissatisfied with the conclusions of an initial administrative review may contest that citation by requesting an administrative hearing. A citee must request an administrative hearing within fifteen (15) days after the date the City served the citee with notice of the administrative review decision. Requests must be submitted to the City Manager and be accompanied by an advance deposit of the fine or a request for a hardship waiver. (Ord. 04-8 § 2, 8/24/04) Page 5 of 9 23.20.160 Advance Deposit—Hardship Waiver. A. Citees financially unable tomake an advance deposit of the administrative fine may file for a hardship waiver. The request for a hardship waiver must be filed with the Department Manager on a form containing information that may be required by the Department Manager. The Department Manager will review 6a http://www.codepublishing.corn/CA/SantaClarita/htmllSantaClarita23ISantaClarita2320.html 6/4/2012 Y R Q I u OVA �p�'N3a�'�1, I 2 ®�. Z3 ■ � t i � F�a�} �� •fir. f K' r t" Al�� yJ��rv' ,��1dN ,,� ,, Y 1. C C vim I 'yj.,�!C I