This chapter establishes regulations for signs within the City for the purposes of safeguarding and protecting the public health, safety, and welfare through appropriate prohibitions. The City recognizes that signs and other graphics are an essential element of a community's visual appearance and provide a means to identify and promote businesses and are an important element in creating safer public streets and highways. Consequently, the purpose of this chapter is to provide sign regulations that are consistent with the goals and objectives of the City's General Plan and the community's visual and aesthetic goals. In addition, these regulations are intended to:
A. 
Promote an economically stable and visually attractive community and ensure that the special character and image the City is striving for can be attained.
B. 
Promote signs and graphics that are attractive, pleasing, and harmonized with the physical character of the environment and surrounding properties, while serving the advertising needs of the business community.
C. 
Promote traffic safety and the smooth and efficient flow of pedestrians and vehicles to their destinations.
D. 
Direct persons to various activities and enterprises, in order to provide for maximum public convenience.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
A. 
Regulatory Interpretations. The provisions of this chapter shall not be interpreted to nullify any easements, covenants, or other private agreements which provide for more restrictive sign regulations than are required by this chapter.
B. 
Enforcement. The Planning Director is authorized and directed to enforce and administer the provisions of this chapter. Whenever the application of this chapter is uncertain due to ambiguity of its provisions, the issue shall be referred to the City Planner for an interpretation and such interpretation shall be made by the Planning Director within 10 business days. Any decision made by the Planning Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission in accordance with Section 19.04.160 (Appeals).
C. 
Message Neutrality. It is the City's policy and intent to regulate both commercial and non-commercial signs in a viewpoint-neutral or content-neutral manner. The message of the sign shall not be reviewed except to the minimum extent necessary to identify the type of sign.
D. 
Message Substitution. Subject to the property owner's consent, a non-commercial message of any type may be substituted in whole or in part for the message displayed on any sign for which the sign structure or mounting device is authorized pursuant to this Code, without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over non-commercial speech, or favoring of any particular non-commercial message over any other non-commercial message. In addition, any on-site commercial message may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any other on-site commercial message, provided that the sign structure or mounting device is authorized pursuant to this Code, without consideration of message content. This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, lot, or land; does not affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted; does not allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device; and does not allow for the substitution of an off-site commercial message in the place of an on-site commercial or non-commercial message.
E. 
On-Site/Off-Site Distinction. Within this chapter, the distinction between on-site and off-site signs applies only to commercial messages.
F. 
General Prohibition. Permanent signs not expressly permitted by this chapter are prohibited.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
Terms unique to this chapter are listed in Chapter 19.98 (Glossary).
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
A. 
Permit Required.
1. 
Sign Permit Required. A Sign Permit shall be required for all permanent signs (building attached or freestanding) prior to erection, relocation, alteration, or replacement of a sign, unless otherwise exempted by this chapter. The process for application, review, and decision regarding a Sign Permit shall be as established in Chapter 19.10 (Administrative Permits). A Sign Permit shall not be required for general maintenance of existing signs or the replacement of the sign face (including message) when the area of the sign is not being changed and a Building Permit is not required (e.g., the replacement of a sign face on a marquee sign). A Sign Permit is also not required for the establishment of temporary signs; however, a Temporary Sign Permit is required and such signs shall be consistent with the development standards and time duration limits established in this chapter.
2. 
Creative Sign Permit. A Creative Sign Permit provides for property owners and businesses to propose and the City to consider special deviations from the regulations for permanent signs provided in this chapter under certain circumstances. The intent of this process is to: (a) encourage signs of unique design that exhibit a high degree of imagination, inventiveness, spirit, and thoughtfulness; and (b) provide a process for the application of sign regulations in ways that will allow creatively designed signs that make a positive visual contribution to the overall image of the City, while mitigating the impacts of large or unusually designed signs. The process for application, review, and decision of the Creative Sign Permit shall be as established in Section 19.16.050 (Creative Sign Permit).
B. 
Uniform Sign Program Required. To ensure compliance with the regulations of this chapter and except as otherwise exempted, a Uniform Sign Program shall be required for all new nonresidential developments of three or more separate tenant spaces that: (a) share either the same parcel or structure; and (b) use common access and parking facilities within the City of Plymouth. The process for application, review, and decision regarding a Uniform Sign Program shall be as established in Chapter 19.10 (Administrative Permits).
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
The following sign types are expressly exempted from the permit requirements of this chapter and title but still must satisfy any and all other applicable City of Plymouth permit requirements when necessary (e.g., building, electrical, plumbing, grading, encroachment, etc.). Any exception to the limitations for exempt signs listed herein shall require a Creative Sign Permit pursuant to Section 19.16.050 (Creative Sign Permit).
A. 
Exempt Signs without Limitations. The following signs are exempt from Sign Permit and City review requirements:
1. 
All devices which are excluded from the definition of a "sign" as set forth in this Code.
2. 
Official traffic signs or other municipal governmental signs, legal notices, advertisements prescribed by law and placed by governmental entities, and signs indicating the location of buried utility lines or any notice posted by a governmental officer in the scope of his duties. The City has a compelling interest in allowing such signs in order to comply with State and local laws and to promote public safety.
3. 
Direction, warning, or information signs or structures required or authorized by law, or by Federal, State, County, or City authority, including, but not limited to, traffic control signs (e.g., stop, yield), highway route number signs, and construction zone signs. The City has a compelling interest in allowing such signs in order to comply with State and local laws and to promote public safety.
4. 
Utility company signs identifying cables, conduits, danger, and so forth. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs in order to comply with state and local laws and to promote public safety.
5. 
Street address signs consistent with the City-adopted Building Code or relevant provisions of the City Municipal Code. Notwithstanding anything in this section, street address signs may be illuminated and may contain reflective paint or material. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs to promote the identification of property to guide emergency response personnel.
6. 
Historical and/or memorial tablets and identification plaques installed by or on behalf of a recognized governmental historical agency. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs to promote interest in historical structures and events and to promote public safety and identification.
7. 
Time and temperature signs containing no advertising copy. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs to promote awareness of local conditions for individuals with medical problems and to promote public safety.
8. 
Signs and advertising for the California State Lottery as authorized by California Government Code Section 8880 et seq. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs in order to comply with State law.
9. 
Gas pricing signs, as required by State law, which identify the brand, types, octane rating, etc., of gasoline for sale within the City. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs in order to comply with State law.
10. 
Change of copy that does not alter the size, location, or illumination of a sign. The City has a compelling interest to permit such minor changes to make sign maintenance a less onerous burden on property owners and to promote public safety.
11. 
Signs prohibiting trespassing or hunting. The City has a compelling interest to allow property owners to post these signs for the protection of life and private property and to promote public safety.
B. 
Exempt Signs with Limitations. The following signs are exempt from Sign Permits and as such do not require City review. However, they shall be consistent with the size, height, duration, and/or maximum number limitations listed:
1. 
Flags that are not included in the definition of a temporary promotional sign that display a non-commercial message, attached to poles, including, but not limited to, flags of the United States, the State of California and other countries and states, counties and municipalities, not to exceed three flags/poles on properties containing less than one acre of land, and not to exceed six flags/poles on properties containing more than one acre of land. Poles shall not exceed 30 feet in height and flags shall not exceed 42 square feet in surface area. Such flags shall be maintained in good condition and free of tattering or tearing.
2. 
Permanent window signs (e.g., hanging on the interior of the window or stenciled on the inside or outside of the window) not exceeding four square feet per street frontage shall be permitted. Such signs should be encouraged to promote business identification, hours of operation, and address information. Such signs may not be illuminated.
3. 
Community interest group signs (e.g., fraternal, benevolent, social services, religious organizations) displaying a non-commercial message, such as time and place/location of meetings, provided said signs are combined onto a common sign structure, the overall area of which does not exceed 100 square feet, and the area devoted to any one organization does not exceed 20 square feet. Such signs may be located off-site from where the activity takes place; however, no more than four locations for such signs will be allowed within the City. Such signs must be set back a minimum of 25 feet from the public right-of-way in residential districts and set back a minimum of 10 feet from the public right-of-way in nonresidential districts, and must be located a minimum of 75 feet from any other freestanding sign.
4. 
Construction signs not to exceed one sign per street frontage and a maximum of 20 square feet in area or a maximum of 36 square feet if combined with a future tenant sign. Construction signs may not be illuminated. Such signs shall be removed at the earliest of the following events: final building inspection approval, issuance of a valid certificate of occupancy, or opening for business to the public.
5. 
Future Tenant Signs. One future tenant identification sign (e.g., banner) per property/establishment shall be permitted and shall not exceed 10 square feet in area or a maximum of 36 square feet if combined with a construction sign. A future tenant identification sign listing the name of future tenants, responsible agent or realtor, and identification of the specific complex are encouraged. When a future tenant sign is independent of a construction sign, the future tenant sign is permitted until such time as a certificate of occupancy is issued for the building(s). The maximum height of future tenant signs shall be five feet and the sign may not be illuminated. Additionally, windows of future tenant spaces may be papered over to screen construction. Such window papering signage on said property is permitted and shall not count toward the sign area limitation.
6. 
Garage, yard, estate, and other home-based sale signs advertising the sale of items from a garage, yard, estate, or other home-based sale and only permitted during the duration of the sale. The City has a compelling interest to allow these signs for the benefit of residents and local groups. A maximum of four signs, each a maximum of six square feet, may be allowed. Such signs shall not be affixed to any utility pole or street sign pole. Such signs shall only be placed on private property with the owner's permission.
7. 
Real estate signs are allowed on private property and out of any required clear vision triangle, with the following limitations:
a. 
For residential property, one sign with a maximum sign area of six square feet (each side). Additionally, a maximum of three attached rider signs are permitted on each real estate sign. On weekends and holidays, signs needed to direct traffic from major collector and arterial streets to the subject property are allowed as follows: one sign may be placed for each change in direction to a maximum of five signs, each with a maximum sign area of six square feet.
b. 
For commercial property, one on-site sign per street frontage with a maximum sign area of 32 square feet for parcels with less than one acre and 48 square feet for parcels larger than one acre with an eight-foot height limit.
c. 
Removal. All real estate signs must be removed not later than five days after the close of the transaction proposed by the sign.
8. 
On-Site Directional Signs. Exit, entrance, or other on-site traffic directional signs are permitted. When located within a required front yard or street side yard area, the maximum height of any directional sign shall be 30 inches and the maximum size shall be four square feet. No advertising or message other than for traffic direction shall be displayed. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs in order to comply with State and Federal law.
9. 
Nameplate signs for residential uses, provided that there is no more than one unlit sign per property, up to a maximum of one-half square foot in area, which is attached to and parallel with the front wall of the building and only contains the name and title or occupation of the occupant.
10. 
Nameplate signs for commercial uses, identifying (and copy limited to) the address of the building, property, or tenant to a maximum of one square foot per sign. Nameplates for commercial uses may only be lit by either an indirect light source (e.g., porch light), low-wattage spotlight without glare to the adjoining property, or internal light source with opaque (non-transparent) background.
11. 
Signs on residential property, not exceeding 10 square feet in area, other than nameplates and street addresses, and of a noncommercial nature, are allowed provided that they are set back at least five feet from the public right-of-way and do not project over the roofline of any structure.
12. 
Murals, on walls other than the main entrance to a building, installed and maintained to an area not exceeding a maximum of 100% of the exterior wall area of the first two stories upon the wall or façade where the mural sign is located.
13. 
Menu/Order Board Signs. A maximum of one menu/order board sign shall be permitted for each drive-in or drive-through establishment, provided that the sign does not exceed a maximum of 40 square feet in sign area and that the sign be limited in height to eight feet. The menu/order board sign does not count toward the total allowed signage for the establishment as described in Table 19.92.090-1 (Allowed Permanent On-Site Sign Standards). Additional signs, area, and/or height may be permitted through issuance of a Creative Sign Permit, provided that the location of the sign(s) does not interfere with on-site vehicle circulation or traffic in the public right-of-way (e.g., line of sight).
14. 
Political signs, provided the signs are displayed for a maximum of 180 days.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1; Ord. 2024-02, 12/14/2023)
Unless approved under a Creative Sign Permit, it shall be unlawful to erect, and no permit shall be issued for, any of the following types of signs:
A. 
Any sign not specifically in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
B. 
Signs painted or mounted on roofs or placed above the roof line (except for mansard roofs).
C. 
Animated signs or flashing signs, with the exception of time and temperature signs.
D. 
Pennants, banners, balloons or other paraphernalia composed of paper, cloth, or other flexible material, except as otherwise permitted under Section 19.92.100 (Allowed Temporary On-Site Sign Standards).
E. 
Any sign that utilizes air flow or the wind to create movement and draw attention.
F. 
Signs which rotate, move, reflect, blink, or incorporate elements that do so, except time and temperature signs.
G. 
Signs placed on the public right-of-way or affixed to an element or structure on the public right-of-way, or located on a publicly owned tree, fence, or utility pole or otherwise posted on public property, except where required or permitted by a governmental agency.
H. 
Inflatable balloon signs, including, but not limited to, individual balloons, balloon strings, and other inflatable objects made of a flexible material and inflated so as to be lighter than air, except as otherwise permitted under Section 19.92.100 (Allowed Temporary On-Site Sign Standards).
I. 
"Single pole signs" and other freestanding signs constructed with a single supporting pole that is not covered with architectural cladding or other covers so as to appear as a solid base or structure.
J. 
Electronic or electronic message signs that utilize LED, video monitor and similar technology for sign display (such as electronic graphic display, electronic message signs or reader boards, see Glossary Section 19.98.040).
K. 
Signs affixed to vehicles where the primary purpose of the vehicle is advertising. This does not apply to signs maintained on vehicles when such advertising is incidental to the primary purpose for which the vehicle is being used (e.g., delivery service) or is required by State or Federal law (e.g., contractor's license number) as exempted in the definition of a sign. Signs included in this definition include, but are not limited to, cars parked showing garage sale signs or vehicles that drive around the City with the express intent of communicating a message displayed on the vehicle (e.g., "rolling billboards").
L. 
Signs without a permanent base and/or signs that can be readily moved, unless specifically permitted as a temporary sign under Section 19.92.100 (Allowed Temporary On-Site Sign Standards).
M. 
Signs attached to light standards unless part of a Uniform Sign Program.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
A. 
Construction of Signs. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be manufactured, assembled, and erected in compliance with all applicable State, Federal, and City laws and regulations, including the locally adopted Building Code. All signs shall comply with the following criteria:
1. 
All transformers, equipment, programmers, and other related items shall be screened and/or painted to match the building or shall be concealed within the sign.
2. 
All permanent signs shall be constructed of quality, low-maintenance materials such as metal, concrete, natural stone, glass, and acrylics. Techniques shall be incorporated during construction to reduce fading and damage caused by exposure to sunlight or degradation due to other elements.
3. 
All freestanding signs that incorporate lighting shall have underground utility service.
4. 
All temporary signs and banners shall be made of a material designed to maintain an attractive appearance for as long as the sign is displayed.
B. 
Maintenance of Signs. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be maintained and kept in proper repair. The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted, and free from rust and corrosion. Any cracked, broken surfaces, malfunctioning lights, missing sign copy, or other non-maintained or damaged portions of a sign shall be repaired or replaced within 30 days following notification by the City. Noncompliance with such a request will constitute a nuisance condition and zoning violation and will be enforced as such.
C. 
Determination and Measurement of Sign Area.
1. 
General Area Calculation. Generally, the area of a sign shall be measured as the overall length of the sign times the overall height of each segment of copy or logo exclusive of background. When the sign is composed of individual letters applied to the building without a distinctive background (e.g., channel letters), the area of the sign shall be measured as 75% of the area of the sign copy (height of the letters times the length of each line of letters, e.g., length x height x 0.75). This practice of taking 75% of the area shall be known as the void rule. See Figure 19.92.070-1 (Sign Area).
FIGURE 19.92.070-1 SIGN AREA
-Image-19.tif
2. 
Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign copy which is applied to an awning or canopy shall be computed at 100% of the area within a single rectangle enveloping the sign copy. See Figure 19.92.070-2 (Awning or Canopy Sign Area).
FIGURE 19.92.070-2 AWNING OR CANOPY SIGN AREA
-Image-20.tif
3. 
Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs are to be computed as total height by the total length of the sign for one side of a double-faced sign, excluding framework of separate single wood post or masonry column and single wood or masonry beam. The base of a monument sign is not part of the sign when comprised of wood, stucco, or masonry. See Figure 19.92.070-3 (Freestanding Sign Area).
a. 
Freestanding signs that are spread with two faces (e.g., marquee sign) shall be computed as the greater of the area of one side or the projected area of two sides.
b. 
Freestanding signs that are spread with three faces shall be computed as the greater of the area of one side or the projected area of two sides or three sides.
c. 
Freestanding signs that are four-sided shall be computed as the greater of the area of two sides or the projected area of two sides.
FIGURE 19.92.070-3 FREESTANDING SIGN AREA
-Image-21.tif
4. 
Three-Dimensional Objects. Where a sign consists of one or more three-dimensional objects (e.g., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), the sign area shall be measured at their maximum projection upon a vertical plane, as viewed from a position in the public right-of-way which produces the largest visual projection. See Figure 19.92.070-4 (Area of Three-Dimensional Objects).
FIGURE 19.92.070-4 AREA OF THREE DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS
-Image-22.tif
D. 
Measurement of Sign Height. Sign height shall be measured from the uppermost part of the sign used in determining the area of the sign to the lowest elevation at the base of the sign.
E. 
Setback and Spacing of Freestanding Signs.
1. 
The minimum setback distance for freestanding signs shall be measured from the back of the public right-of-way or side of a driveway, unless an encroachment permit is granted. All freestanding signs shall be located outside of the public right-of-way and any required clear vision triangle.
2. 
The minimum spacing distance between permanent freestanding signs, excluding on-site directory signs, should be 50 feet. The designated approving authority will review a proposed sign location on a case-by-case basis to ensure the sign is located outside the required clear vision triangle and does not otherwise inhibit motorist safety.
F. 
Sign Removal or Replacement. When a sign is removed or replaced, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that support the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure. This provision does not apply to routine maintenance.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
The following criteria shall be utilized for permanent advertising displays and signs, and shall not be construed to govern the design of temporary signs.
A. 
General Design Standards.
1. 
Architectural Style. Each sign shall be designed to be compatible with and relate to the architectural style of the main building or buildings upon the site where such sign is located. Each sign shall also be compatible with the style and character of the existing improvements upon the lots adjacent to the site. Signs located on commercial sites but in a predominately residential area shall be unobtrusive and designed to be compatible with such residential area.
2. 
Relationship to Buildings. Signs located upon a lot with one main building or several buildings shall be designed to incorporate at least one of the predominant visual elements of such building or buildings, such as the type of construction materials, color, or other design detail.
3. 
Color. The color(s) of a sign should be harmonious and complementary to the colors of the building on or near which it is to be located. Fewer colors will generally produce the most attractive sign.
4. 
Letter Style. The letter style to be used on a sign should be compatible with the architectural style of the building on or near which it is to be located. For example, simple block letters are generally most compatible with Spanish-style buildings. For those buildings that have been recently constructed and have no particular architectural style, simpler letter styles are desirable.
5. 
Sign Materials. The goal of sign design is to maintain moderate, attractive, and compatible styling so as not to conflict or distract from the architectural character of the area. The choice of materials shall be left to the discretion of the applicant, subject to the provisions of this chapter and the approval of the City.
6. 
Relationship to Other Signs. Where there is more than one sign on a site or building, all permanent signs displaying a commercial message shall have designs that similarly treat or incorporate the following design elements to the extent feasible:
a. 
Letter size and style of copy.
b. 
Shape of total sign and related components.
c. 
Type of construction materials.
d. 
Sign/letter color and style of copy.
e. 
Method used for supporting sign (e.g., wall or ground base).
f. 
Location.
7. 
Sign Illumination. The artificial illumination of signs, either from an internal or external source, shall be designed to minimize negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. The following standards shall apply to all illuminated signs:
a. 
External light sources shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination of an object other than the sign.
b. 
The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will create glare or other negative impacts on residential properties or roadways in direct line of sight to the sign.
c. 
Unless otherwise permitted by another provision of this chapter, signs shall not have blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights, or other illumination devices that have a changing light intensity, brightness, or color.
d. 
Colored lights shall not be used at a location or in a manner so as to be confused as traffic control devices.
e. 
Reflective type bulbs and incandescent lamps that exceed 15 watts shall not be used on the exterior surface of signs so that the face of the bulb or lamp is exposed to a public right-of-way or adjacent property.
f. 
Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible and shall comply with Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (California Building Standards Code).
8. 
The maximum coverage of copy allowed on a sign shall be 80% of the sign face.
B. 
Design Standards for Special Sign Types.
1. 
Awning and Canopy Signs. Awning and canopy signs may be permitted only as an integral part of the awning or canopy to which they are attached or applied, as follows:
a. 
Lettering shall be allowed on awning valances only and shall not exceed 18 inches in height. Logos, symbols, and graphics that do not include text may be allowed on the shed (slope) portion of an awning and shall not exceed four square feet in area for each awning. Lettering on the side of the awning is not permitted. See Figure 19.92.080-1 (Awning and Canopy Sign).
FIGURE 19.92.080-1 AWNING AND CANOPY SIGN
-Image-23.tif
b. 
Lettering shall be located within the middle 70% of the valance area.
c. 
Only permanent signs that are an integral part of the awning or architectural projection shall be allowed. Temporary signs shall not be placed on awnings.
d. 
Awning signs shall only be allowed for first- and second-story occupancies.
e. 
Awnings shall not be lighted from under the awning (back-lit) so that the awning appears internally illuminated. Lighting directed downward that does not illuminate the awning is allowed.
f. 
Awnings shall be regularly cleaned and kept free of dust and visible defects.
g. 
The style of the awning/canopy shall complement the architectural style of the building to which it is attached. Awnings should generally have a simple horizontal valance if located over rectangular or square window/door openings. Domed or barrel-shaped awnings are appropriate for buildings with arched window/door openings.
2. 
Blade/Bracket Signs.
a. 
Location. Blade or bracket signs shall be placed only on ground floor façades, except for businesses located above the ground level with direct exterior pedestrian access.
b. 
Height. The lowest point of a blade or bracket sign shall be a minimum of eight feet above grade.
c. 
Projection. The sign may project a maximum of four feet from the building.
d. 
Sign structure. Sign supports and brackets shall be compatible with the design and scale of the sign.
e. 
Encroachment. Blade or bracket signs may not encroach into the public right-of-way or be located above it, or into City-owned property except with an encroachment permit.
3. 
Wall Signs.
a. 
Wall signs shall be compatible with the predominant visual architectural elements of the building façade.
b. 
Wall signs shall be placed to establish façade rhythm, scale, and proportion where such elements are weak. In many existing buildings that have a monolithic or plain façade, signs can establish or continue appropriate design rhythm, scale, and proportion.
c. 
Wall signs shall utilize a consistent proportion of signage to the scale of the surrounding wall area, such as 1/3 text to 2/3 wall area or 1/4 text to 3/4 wall area. See Figure 19.92.080-2 (Text Scale). This proportional rule shall apply on all walls within a single or multi-tenant project.
FIGURE 19.92.080-2 TEXT SCALE
-Image-24.tif
d. 
Wall sign raceways shall be concealed from public view (e.g., within the building wall or painted to match the exterior color of the building where the sign is located) or otherwise integrated with the design of the sign and building so as to not detract from the architectural character of the building.
e. 
Direct and indirect lighting methods are allowed for wall signs provided that they are not harsh or unnecessarily bright. Light shall either be directed down or in such a way that it does not cause light trespass or glare onto adjoining properties or public rights-of-way.
f. 
If a tenant's signage on one façade comprises multiple elements (e.g., logo and text), the elements shall be located and scaled with relationship to each other. See Figure 19.92.080-3 (Multiple Element Signs).
FIGURE 19.92.080-3 MULTIPLE ELEMENT SIGNS
-Image-25.tif
4. 
Freestanding Signs.
a. 
Monument and double pole pylon signs are preferred because they can be more fully integrated into the overall development design. As described in Section 19.92.060 (Prohibited Signs), single pole signs are prohibited unless permitted through the Creative Sign Permit process. Pylon signs shall be constructed with architectural cladding or similar material covering the supporting framework so they are architecturally integrated with the rest of the sign.
b. 
In an effort to promote full architectural integration of signs, voids between the sign face and the sign structure are prohibited. Either the sign face shall utilize the full width of the sign structure or coverings that are architecturally consistent with the rest of the sign shall be used to fill any voids.
c. 
Materials and design for freestanding signs shall be complementary to the materials and design of the buildings for the related development. For example, if the façade of the building is made of brick or brick veneer, a complementary freestanding sign would also include brick.
d. 
Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the sign equal to the area of the sign. Landscaping shall be complementary to and designed in concert with the landscaping for the overall site. The design of the landscaping shall be such that natural growth will not obscure the sign from the public right-of-way.
e. 
The minimum letter height on a freestanding sign shall be 12 inches. The intent of this provision is to limit the clutter of text on the sign and increase readability for the public, thereby providing for public safety.
f. 
The maximum letter height on a freestanding sign shall be 36 inches. The intent of this provision is to limit the negative visual impact of large text size.
5. 
Marquee or Changeable Copy Sign. These types of signs shall be considered to be the same as any other type of sign and shall be regulated based on their location, e.g., if located on a wall, they shall be deemed wall signs.
6. 
Electronic Message Signs. Electronic message signs as part of an on-site sign may be permitted through a Creative Sign Permit or Uniform Sign Program, provided that the message is an on-site message, except for public information messages, and shall be programmed so that the message does not change more than once every four seconds (scrolling messages are prohibited).
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
Table 19.92.090-1 (Allowed Permanent On-Site Sign Standards) lists the development standards for all permanent on-site signs based on use type and Zoning District, as well as allowed sign type. As identified in Section 19.92.040 (Permits and Review Procedures), a sign permit is required before any of the sign types listed herein are installed, erected, or otherwise established. Only those signs that may be permitted are listed. Regulations for temporary promotional on-site signs are listed in Table 19.92.100-1 (Temporary Sign Standards). Regulations for off-site signs are listed in Section 19.92.110 (Allowed Off-Site Signage). The following general rules/standards apply to permanent signs regulated in this section:
A. 
Minimal Illumination. Where illumination of a sign is allowed under this title, such illumination may be achieved by any method that minimizes glare onto neighboring or abutting property, such as from behind the sign (e.g., light source behind the face of the sign, such as with the opaque, non-transparent face of channel letters, or silhouette halo illumination behind letters) or by a low-level spotlight. In the case of electronic message signs, it is recognized that this standard is not applicable and, in such instances, the illumination level shall be regulated such that the intensity of the illumination is appropriate based upon the level of lighting of the surrounding environment (e.g., illumination by the sun or moon during day, dusk, night time, and dawn) through the use of such means as light meters and programmed illumination regulation or LEDs that are designed to limit the spread of light.
B. 
Sign Area Allowance. Allowable sign area is either a set square footage per establishment or is based on a ratio of primary building frontage to sign area. Sign area is calculated as described in Section 19.92.070.C (Determination and Measurement of Sign Area). Where a ratio is described, it applies up to the listed maximum.
C. 
Collective Sign Area. The total sign area allowed herein for each sign type may be distributed among the maximum number of signs permitted for that sign type. For example, the total allowed area for wall signs for a particular establishment may be distributed amongst the maximum number of wall signs allowed for that same establishment.
TABLE 19.92.090-1 ALLOWED PERMANENT ON-SITE SIGN STANDARDS
Sign Type
Maximum Number Permitted
Collective Sign Area
Maximum Height
Minimum Setback from ROW1
Illumination Allowed
Permanent Subdivision Identification Signs
Freestanding Sign
Monument or on fence/wall not in ROW
2/entrance
24 sf
6 ft3
5 ft
Yes
Monument w/in ROW
1/entrance
24 sf
6 ft3
See note 2 below
Yes
Multiple-Family Residential Signs
Freestanding Sign, Project Identification
1/entrance
25 sf
8 ft
5 ft
Yes
Nonresidential Signs - In General
Freestanding Signs
Monument or pylon sign
1/frontage
100 sf
See § 19.92.090.D
5 ft
Yes
Building-Attached Signs, Establishments ≥5k sf
Wall sign
No maximum
2.5:1, max 200 sf
Roofline
-
Yes
Window sign4
-
-
No
Building-Attached Signs, Establishments <5k sf
Wall sign
No maximum
1.5:1, max 100 sf
Roofline
-
Yes
Window sign4
 
-
-
No
Nonresidential Signs - Historic Overlay (H) District
Building-Attached Signs
Projecting sign
1/frontage
1.5:1, max 50 sf
Roofline
-
Yes
Wall sign
1/frontage
 
-
Yes
Window sign4
No maximum
-
-
No
New ghost sign5
1/frontage
1:1 of applicable frontage, max 100 sf
Roofline
-
No
Notes:
1.
Must be located outside the clear vision triangle.
2.
Within median islands, sign must be set back three feet from sides and 12 feet from ends.
3.
Any freestanding sign, including pylon signs may have a height of up to 24 feet with the issuance of a Creative Sign Permit.
4.
Window signs may not occupy more than 25 percent of the individual window area. The void rule shall apply when calculating the area of the window sign when it is stenciled on the window pane.
5.
New ghost signs must be treated such that they appear aged and weathered.
D. 
Sign Height for Nonresidential, Freestanding Signs. Sign heights for all nonresidential freestanding signs are measured with reference to the adjacent roadway height. The maximum height of any nonresidential freestanding sign is as follows:
1. 
For sloped properties, if freestanding sign is set back a minimum of five feet from the right-of-way it may be up to 8′-0″ in height as measured at the lowest point of the sign base, regardless of the height as measured from adjacent street.
2. 
Permitted maximum height of a nonresidential freestanding sign, as measured from the adjacent roadway, is as in Table 19.92.090-2 (Permitted Maximum Nonresidential Freestanding Sign Heights).
TABLE 19.92.090-2 PERMITTED MAXIMUM NONRESIDENTIAL FREESTANDING SIGN HEIGHTS
Setback from ROW
Maximum Sign Height
Less than 5 ft
No signs permitted
5 ft
12 ft
5 to 25 ft
12 ft + 1 additional 1′-0″ increase in height for each 5′-0″ of setback
Greater than 25 ft
16 ft
Creative Sign Permit
24 ft
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
This section describes standards for temporary on-site signs. These signs do not require the issuance of a sign permit. Temporary signs may include, but are not limited to, commercial signs for grand openings and special product, sale, or event advertising. The development standards for temporary signs are listed in Table 19.92.100-1 (Temporary Sign Standards). The following general rules/standards apply to temporary signs:
A. 
Time Duration. Display periods for temporary signs shall be limited to a maximum of 30 days per calendar year. Longer time periods may be permitted with issuance of a Temporary Use Permit (see Section 19.14.020 (Temporary Use Permit)).
B. 
Illumination. Temporary signs may not be illuminated.
C. 
Message. Temporary signs displaying a commercial message shall be limited to on-site signage only. Temporary off-site signage displaying a commercial message is prohibited.
D. 
Encroachment. Temporary signs shall not encroach on or above the public right-of-way or be attached to public and/or utility poles, or be on any public property.
E. 
Removal. Temporary signs shall be removed promptly at the end of the permit approval period or within the time limits established by this chapter or be subject to code enforcement action.
TABLE 19.92.100-1 TEMPORARY ON-SITE SIGN STANDARDS
Use Type
Maximum Temporary Number
Maximum Area
Maximum Height
Minimum Setback from ROW1
Multiple-Family Residential, Apartment Rental
1/complex
4 sf
5 ft freestanding; Roofline wall
10 ft
Nonresidential, Building—Attached
1/establishment
12 sf; 20% of total window space if located in a window
Roofline
Not Applicable
Nonresidential, Freestanding2
1/establishment
6 sf
5 ft
10 ft
On-Site Subdivision, Balloons
5 balloons per sales trailer or model home complex
None
65 ft
10 ft
On-Site Subdivision, Directional Signs
2/subdivision entrance, max 6
32 sf
10 ft
10 ft
On-Site Subdivision, Flags
10 poles/subdivision
15 sf/pole
20 ft
10 ft
Notes:
1.
Must be located outside of the clear vision triangle.
2.
This included A-frame and sandwich board type signs.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
A. 
General Off-Site Signage. Off-site permanent commercial signage is only permitted when consistent with the following development standards and after the approving authority has issued a sign permit for the sign.
1. 
Allowed Zones. Off-site commercial signage is only permitted with a Conditional Use Permit.
2. 
Maximum Signs Per Lot. One off-site commercial sign shall be allowed for the first 10 acres of lot size. One additional off-site sign shall be permitted for each additional 25 acres of lot size.
3. 
Maximum Height. The maximum height for off-site commercial signage is 16 feet.
4. 
Maximum Area. The maximum area for off-site commercial signage is 100 square feet per sign.
5. 
Lighting. Off-site commercial signs may be illuminated, provided that the illumination does not produce glare or spill onto the roadway or adjacent property. Electronic signs are not permitted.
B. 
Weekend Directional Signs. Weekend directional signs are those signs customarily displayed on the weekends, measuring less than nine square feet in area. Such signs may be used to identify the name and location of active home sales as part of a new residential subdivision/condominium project, provided that each face of the sign does not exceed four square feet, is mounted such that it is no more than four feet tall from the ground, and is set back a minimum of five feet from the edge of the roadway pavement. Additionally, such signs are only allowed on a temporary basis from noon on Friday to no later than noon on the following Monday. In the event that Friday is a nationally recognized holiday, said signs may be erected on Thursday after noon. In the event that Monday is a nationally recognized holiday, said signs may remain in place until noon on the following Tuesday. In no event may a weekend directional sign be located within a roadway median.
C. 
Subdivision Directional Signs. Temporary off-site subdivision directional signs are permitted, subject to the issuance of a Temporary Use Permit if placed for longer than 120 days. In any longer-term directional sales sign installation application, the Planning Commission is the final approving body, permits will be reviewed annually, and require conformance with the following development standards:
1. 
Location. The sign shall be located outside of the clear vision triangle and within the buildable area of the lot as defined by the setback regulations of the underlying zoning district. The sign shall only be located a minimum of 100 feet from another freestanding sign. It shall only be located on streets classified as collector or arterial under the General Plan.
2. 
Height. Shall be consistent with all other provisions of Chapter 19.92.
3. 
Area. The maximum area of one face of the sign shall be 25 square feet when only one subdivision is listed. When two or more subdivisions are listed, the maximum area of one face shall be 120 square feet with each subdivision limited to a maximum of 30 square feet.
4. 
Number of Faces. Subdivision directional signs may have up to four faces with the angle between the faces no more than 90 degrees.
5. 
Illumination. Subdivision directional signs may not be illuminated.
6. 
Number. Not to exceed two per entrance.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
A. 
Nonconforming Signs.
1. 
Except as otherwise provided by this section, all existing signs which do not meet the requirements of this chapter shall be deemed nonconforming signs and shall either be removed or brought into compliance with the City's Municipal Code when a substantial alteration to the sign is made. For purposes of this section, a "substantial alteration" shall be defined as repair or refurbishing of any sign that alters its physical dimensions or height, or replaces any integral component of the sign including, but not limited to, alterations to exterior cabinets, bases, or poles. In addition, "substantial alteration" shall also include any repair or refurbishing of a sign within a calendar year that exceeds 50% of the depreciated value of the sign and structure, but excepting customary maintenance. "Customary maintenance" shall be defined as any activity or work performed for the purpose of actively maintaining the sign in its existing approved physical configuration and size dimensions at the specific location approved by the City and includes the following:
a. 
Repainting the sign text, cabinet, or other component of the sign without changing the advertising message.
b. 
Routine replacement of border and trim with substantially the same colors and materials.
2. 
A nonconforming sign may remain in use provided no additions or enlargements are made thereto and no structural alterations are made therein, except as permitted for customary maintenance in this subsection. If said nonconforming sign is destroyed or removed, or ceases to be used for the use in existence as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, every future sign at the same location must be in conformance with the provisions of this chapter.
3. 
It shall be the responsibility of the owner of any premises containing a nonconforming sign (including a sign painted directly upon the surface of a structure) to remove said nonconforming sign within 90 days of cessation of business at that location.
B. 
Abandoned Signs. Abandoned signs may be abated by the City. For regulatory purposes, any factors indicating abandonment shall not begin occurring until 120 days after this chapter first goes into effect.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)