This chapter defines all terms used or referenced throughout Title 19 of the City of Plymouth Ordinance. As many terms are specific to building, development, and planning language, this glossary of terms serves as reference to all Title 19 chapters, and by inference all such references to all other titles of the City of Plymouth Municipal Code.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
A detached building or structure, the use of which is subordinate,
and incidental to a lawfully permitted principal use or main building
on the same lot and not used for sleeping quarters.
A use which is subordinate and incidental in height, bulk,
volume and/or use to the lawfully permitted principal use on the same
lot, and which does not alter the essential characteristics of said
principal use and is in keeping with other uses permitted in the same
district. Examples include:
A garage, carport, shed, or building for domestic storage.
A children's playhouse, gazebo, greenhouse, pool or recreation
building.
Storage of merchandise normally carried in stock on the same
lot with any retail service or business use.
Storage of goods used in or produced by manufacturing activities,
on the same lot or parcel of ground with such activities.
Off-street parking.
State-licensed facilities that provide non-medical care and
supervision for more than six adults for periods of less than 24 hours,
with no overnight stays.
Defined by State law as the provision of nonmedical care
to six or fewer adults, including seniors, in the provider's own home,
for a period of less than 24 hours at a time. Homes serving more than
six adults are included in adult day care facility.
A land use zoning district which preserves agricultural areas
for agricultural use. This category is within the Sphere of Influence
or Planning Area and in some cases so designated until such time as
a change in zoning and land use designation occurs and orderly urban
development may take place.
The tilling of soil, horticulture, floriculture, viticulture,
raising crops, livestock, farming, dairying, animal husbandry, including
all uses customarily accessory and incidental thereto; but excluding
slaughter houses, fertilizer works, bone yards, commercial feeding
of garbage or offal to swine or other animals, or plants for the reduction
of animal matter.
Any construction or physical change in the internal arrangement
of rooms or the supporting members of a building or structure, or
change in the appearance of any building or structure.
Any business which provides a facility for emergency medical
team staff members, and which dispatches ambulances for emergency
response. Usually located on major arterial streets where there is
no detrimental impact to residential areas due to noise and parking.
Any buildings or portion thereof designed or used for the
care, observation, or treatment of cats, dogs, or other household
pets, with incidental boarding. (Also referred to as veterinary hospital.)
The raising and keeping of farm animals (e.g., cows, goats,
sheep, chickens, etc.) for commercial purposes.
Care and maintenance of animals on private property. The
listing below provides a distinction between various types of animals
related to allowed use provisions. This classification is distinct
from Animal Sales and Grooming, and Equestrian Facility (commercial
or hobby). Also see Kennel, Commercial, which provides for the boarding
of animals (e.g., doggie daycare).
Domestic Pets.
Small animals (no larger than the largest breed of dogs)
customarily kept as pets within a dwelling unit. This classification
includes dogs, cats, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, fish, and birds
(excluding large tropical birds and poultry).
Exotic Animals.
Wild animals not customarily confined or cultivated by man
for domestic or commercial purposes, but kept as a pet or for display,
including wolf-dog hybrids, potbelly pigs, non-poisonous snakes, reptiles,
and large tropical birds (including peacocks).
Insects.
Small arthropod animals confined or cultivated by man for
domestic purposes including, but not limited to, flies, crickets,
mosquitoes, beetles, butterflies, and bees.
Livestock Animals.
When permitted under this classification, domesticated animals
that may be kept or raised in pens, barns, houses, and pastures for
private use. Livestock includes, but is not limited to, cattle, sheep,
swine, goats, and equine.
Poultry.
Domesticated birds (fowl) customarily kept for eggs or meat.
This classification includes chickens, roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys,
guinea fowl, and Cornish game hens.
A live and work situation where a resident artisan lives,
and displays and sells their work on a non-first floor level.
A permanent meeting facility for organizations operating
on a membership basis for the promotion of the interests of the members,
including facilities for business associations; civic, social, and
fraternal organizations; labor unions and similar organizations; political
organizations; religious organizations; professional membership organizations;
and other membership organizations.
Automobile Repair—Minor.
Minor automotive servicing and replacement of parts for passenger
automobiles and/or motorcycles, usually in the same day. Services
include, but are not limited to, engine tune-up, lubrication, and
tire, muffler, brake, and electrical.
Automobile Repair—Major.
Repair garages and specialty establishments for motorcycles,
and passenger automobiles and trucks of all sizes, such as machine,
tire, body and fender, auto glass, radiator, transmission, motor tune-up,
vehicle upholstery, and muffler shops. May also include repair of
machinery and equipment.
Home Repair—Minor.
Adjustments or the replacement of vehicle parts where such
adjustments or replacement may reasonably be expected to be accomplished
within a 48 hour period. No permit is required for such minor adjustments
or replacement.
An establishment engaged in the retail sales and services
of new and used automobiles, trucks, trailers, motorcycles, mopeds,
and recreation vehicles and supplies. May include farm or industrial
equipment, machinery, and supplies.
A structure or area primarily designed and used for the retail
sale of motor vehicle fuel and lubricants to the public by direct
delivery into the user's vehicle and may include incidental motor
vehicular services such as tire repair, battery charging, brake adjustment,
motor tune-up and washing where no conveyor, blower or steam cleaning
device is used. Sale of food, beverages and related items as determined
by the Planning Director is permitted in conjunction with an automobile
service station within commercial zoning districts.
An establishment engaged in periodic events such as weddings,
dances, and potlucks. Typically is rented out to private parties and/or
special interest groups. Usually includes food preparation and/or
serving, and live entertainment or recorded music.
Any razor, barbed or otherwise sharp, hazardous wiring used
to deter animals or intruders from entering or exiting an enclosed
area.
An establishment where alcoholic beverages are sold for consumption
on the premises, not including restaurants where the principal business
is serving food. Also referred to as a night club or tavern.
Residential structures with one family in permanent residence
with up to five bedrooms rented for overnight lodging, where meals
may be provided subject to applicable Health Department regulations.
A bed and breakfast inn with more than five guest rooms is considered
a hotel or motel and is included under each definition of Hotels and
Motels.
A building where lodging or meals are provided for residents
not functioning as a common household, usually for compensation.
A plant where malt liquors or wines are manufactured and
stored. See also Micro-Brewery.
Any structure with substantial walls and roof securely affixed
to the land and entirely separated on all sides from any other structure
by space or by walls in which there are no communicating doors, windows,
or opening, and which is designed or intended for the shelter, enclosure
or protection of persons, animals, or property of any kind. Also defined
as follows:
"Completely enclosed building"
means a building separated on all sides from the adjacent
open space, or from other buildings or other structures, by a permanent
roof and by exterior walls or party walls, pierced only by windows
and normal entrance or exit doors.
"Detached or accessory building"
means a building separated by at least six feet of space
open to the sky from any other building on the same zoning plot.
"Existing building"
means a building erected prior to the effective date of the
ordinance codified in this title, or one for which a legal Building
Permit has been issued.
"Primary building"
means a building in which is conducted the primary use of
the lot on which it is situated.
"Public building"
means a building principally occupied by the Federal, State,
County, or City government, or any political subdivision agency, or
instrumentally thereof.
"Temporary building"
means a building not permanently attached to the ground by
fixed foundation, piers or substructure.
The vertical distance at any point from the finished grade
or existing grade, whichever is lower, to the highest point of the
coping of a flat roof, to the top roof line of a mansard roof, or
to the midpoint of the highest gable of a pitched or hip roof. Where
unusual deviations occur on the existing grade, such as a small swale,
the Planning Director may make minor adjustments in the building height
envelope to permit reasonable building design consistent with the
intent and purpose of the building height standard. Graded areas entirely
under a building and not visible from the exterior of the building,
such as underground garages and basements, shall not be included for
purposes of calculating height.
An establishment engaged in the retail and wholesale sales
of building materials such as lumber, masonry products, rock, soil,
tile, and other similar materials needed to construct a structure
and/or accessory structures and uses (fences, paved areas, retaining
walls).
A residence that is accessory to a site with a nonresidential
primary use and that is needed for security, 24 hour care or supervision,
or monitoring of facilities, equipment or other conditions on the
site.
A permanent roofed structure, constructed of durable, weather
resistant materials not completely enclosed on the sides and intended
for vehicle protection. Must be secured to a concrete slab, concrete
footers or other type of foundation to be considered a permanent structure.
A structure erected to provide weather protection for a vehicle
consisting of plastic, cloth or other non-permanent material and/or
not permanently anchored to the ground and/or driveway.
An establishment engaged in the washing of passenger vehicles
for a fee.
Land used for the burial of the dead and dedicated for cemetery
purposes, including columbariums and mausoleums.
A temporary use where the primary activity is the outdoor sales of food and farm produce such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs, eggs, honey, flowers, and food products from livestock, and that is certified by the State of California and operated in accordance with Article 1, Division 17, Chapter 10.5 of the Agricultural Code. See also Farmers' Market.
Multi-purpose meeting and recreational facility typically
consisting of one or more meeting or multi-purpose rooms, kitchen,
and/or outdoor barbecue facilities that are available for use by various
groups for such activities as meetings, parties, receptions, dances,
etc.
A privately or publicly owned vacant parcel of land used
by the community or a neighborhood for the growing of fruits, vegetables,
and culinary herbs for personal consumption and/or to be offered for
sale on site.
An establishment in which nursing, dietary, and other personal
services are furnished 24 hours-a-day to convalescents, invalids,
or the aged who are unable to or no longer want to care for themselves
in a more traditional setting. Also referred to as nursing homes or
intermediate care facilities. Does not include institutions which
care for persons suffering from a mental disorder or communicable
disease, or which offer surgery, maternity, or other primary treatments.
A retail food market which is typically less than 2,500 square
feet in gross floor area and which caters to customers who buy a small
number of items, is typically part of a larger chain or franchise
system, often with long hours of operation, and as determined by the
Planning Director.
An open unoccupied space bounded on two or more sides by
the walls of a building. An inner courtyard is a court entirely within
the exterior walls of a building. All other courts are outer courts.
Facilities maintained to develop, promote, or foster the
arts or literature, as well as a clubhouse, lodge hall, and fraternal
society meeting places, and ancillary activities as determined by
the Planning Director, and whose other functions are not indicated
elsewhere in this title as administrative or conditional uses.
A facility which provides nonmedical care to 15 or more children
and/or adults in need of personal services, supervision, or assistance
essential for sustaining the activities of daily living or for the
protection of the individual on less than a 24 hour basis. May include
pre-schools, infant centers, and extended day care facilities.
An establishment which distributes, stores, and warehouses
commodities and goods for the purposes of marketing or merchandising
at wholesale or retail.
An area of land designated by a zoning category, and established
under the provisions of this Zoning Code.
A facility where the physical design of the site allows the
service of goods to be offered while remaining in a vehicle, including,
but not limited to, restaurant food, financial services, and automatic
car washes.
One or more rooms with a single kitchen, arranged, designed,
used, or intended to be used exclusively for living and sleeping purposes
by one family as an independent housekeeping unit. Other definitions
include the following:
Apartment/Multiple-Family Dwelling(s).
Any building, group of buildings, or portion thereof which
includes two or more dwelling units, and which are intended as rental
or for lease units. Apartment/multiple-family dwelling projects may
include private recreational facilities.
Condominium or Townhouse Dwelling(s).
Any building, group of buildings, or portion thereof which
includes two or more dwelling units, and which are intended as for
sale units. Condominium and townhouse dwelling projects are usually
governed by a Homeowners Association with Covenants, Codes, and Restrictions,
and may include private recreational facilities.
Employee Housing.
Employee housing means: (a) employee housing that serves
six or fewer persons shall be permitted as a single-family structure
and permitted in the same manner as other single-family structures
of the same type in the same zone (Health and Safety Code Section
17021.5) in all zones allowing single-family residential uses; and
(b) employee housing consisting of no more than 12 units or 36 beds
shall be permitted as an agricultural use and permitted in the same
manner as other agricultural uses in zones allowing agricultural uses
(Health and Safety Section 17021.6).
Group Residential.
Shared living quarters without separate kitchen and/or bathroom
facilities for each room or unit. This classification includes residential
hotels, dormitories, fraternities, sororities, convents, rectories,
and private residential clubs but does not include living quarters
shared exclusively by a family. This category includes boardinghouses,
which are defined as a building other than a hotel or restaurant where
meals or lodging or both meals and lodging are provided for compensation
for four or more persons.
Guest House.
A detached structure accessory to a single-family dwelling,
accommodating living and/or sleeping quarters, but without kitchen
or cooking facilities.
Residential Care Facility.
Consistent with the definitions of State law, a residential
care facility provides 24 hour nonmedical care for more than six persons
18 years of age or older, or emancipated minors, with chronic, life-threatening
illness in need of personal services, protection, supervision, assistance,
guidance, or training essential for sustaining the activities of daily
living or for the protection of the individual. This classification
includes, but is not limited to, rest homes, residential care facilities
for the elderly, adult residential facilities, wards of the juvenile
court, and other facilities licensed by the State of California. Convalescent
homes, nursing homes, and similar facilities providing medical care
are included under the definition of Medical Services, Extended Care.
Residential Care Home.
Consistent with the definitions of State law (Health and
Safety Code Section 1502), a residential care home is a home that
provides 24 hour nonmedical care for six or fewer persons 18 years
of age or older, or emancipated minors, with chronic, life-threatening
illness in need of personal services, protection, supervision, assistance,
guidance, or training essential for sustaining the activities of daily
living, or for the protection of the individual. This classification
includes rest homes, residential care facilities for the elderly,
adult residential facilities, wards of the juvenile court, and other
facilities licensed by the State of California. Convalescent homes,
nursing homes, and similar facilities providing medical care are not
included under this definition.
Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) Facility.
Multi-unit housing for very low-income persons that typically
consists of a single room and shared bath and also may include a shared
common kitchen and common activity area. SROs may be restricted to
seniors or be available to persons of all ages. Subsidized versions
may be supervised by a government housing agency.
Single-Family Dwelling.
A detached building containing only one dwelling unit.
Second Single-Family Dwelling.
A second single-family dwelling is permitted on a parcel
where there is one existing single-family dwelling already, provided
minimum lot size and setbacks can be met for both dwellings separately.
Second Dwelling Unit, Attached.
A second dwelling unit attached to an existing owner-occupied
single-family dwelling which may be rented and contains no more than
640 square feet.
Supportive Housing.
Housing with no limit on length of stay, that is occupied
by the target population, and that is linked to an on-site or off-site
service that assists the supportive housing resident in retaining
the housing, improving his or her health status, and maximizing his
or her ability to live and, when possible, work in the community.
Transitional Housing.
Buildings configured as rental housing developments, but
operated under program requirements that require the termination of
assistance and recirculating of the assisted unit to another eligible
program recipient at a predetermined future point in time that shall
be no less than six months from the beginning of the assistance.
Housing with minimal supportive services for homeless persons
that is limited to occupancy of six months or less by a homeless person.
No individual or household may be denied emergency shelter because
of an inability to pay.
Information within a written document which evaluates the
environmental effects of a proposed project as required by the current
City of Plymouth and the California Environmental Quality Act environmental
review guidelines.
Commercial horse, donkey, and mule facilities including horse
ranches, boarding stables, riding schools and academies, horse exhibition
facilities (for shows or other competitive events), pack stations,
and barns, stables, corrals, and paddocks accessory and incidental
to these uses.
Stables, corrals, and paddocks used by the individual homeowners
of corresponding property and their animals.
State-licensed facilities that provide nonmedical care and
supervision of minor children for periods of less than 24 hours within
a single-family or multifamily dwelling. The occupant of the residence
provides care and supervision generally for eight to 14 children.
As described in the California Health and Safety Code, large day care
homes may provide services for up to 14 children when specific conditions
are met.
State-licensed facilities that provide nonmedical care and
supervision of minor children for periods of less than 24 hours within
a single-family or multifamily dwelling. The occupant of the residence
provides care and supervision generally to eight or fewer children.
As described in the California Health and Safety Code, small day care
homes for children may provide services for up to eight children when
specific conditions are met.
One or more persons living together as a single housekeeping
unit, as distinguished from a group living in a boarding house, hotel,
motel, or group or institutional living quarters such as a group home,
day care home, or convalescent home.
A periodic or weekly event where fresh produce, flowers,
crafts, and other items are sold by independent vendors. Typically
held outside. See also Certified Farmers' Market.
A linear structure constructed or erected to a maximum height
of six feet unless otherwise provided herein, and which requires permanent
location on the ground or is attached to something having location
on the ground. Building materials used for a fence may include, but
are not limited to, boards, bricks, wrought iron, chain link, or blocks,
and do not include landscaping, such as hedges, bamboo sticks or bushes,
and trees.
A person or entity engaged in the business of selling, transferring,
or leasing; or advertising for sale, transfer, or lease, or offering
or exposing for sale, transfer, or lease, any firearm and/or ammunition,
either directly or indirectly; and/or engaged in the retail sale of
ammunition.
A land use zoning district within which land is subject to
tidal or flood water inundation.
The total enclosed area included within the walls of a building
or portion thereof. Does not include vent shaft, eaves, overhangs,
atriums, covered entries, and outdoor courts and any portion of a
structure aboveground used for parking, parking aisles, or loading
areas.
A fully enclosed and covered attached or detached structure
accessory to the primary use, intended for storage of one or more
motor vehicles used by the occupants of the premises.
The use of any single-family residence or other dwelling
unit for a group residence where residents pay a fee or other consideration
to the group home operator in return for residential accommodations.
A group home includes a boarding home or a rooming house, as well
as a group residence for the elderly, or mentally or physically disabled
or handicapped persons, or other persons in need of care and supervision.
Each dwelling unit so used shall be considered a single group home.
The term group home includes both licensed and unlicensed group homes.
Licensed Group Home.
a.
b.
A licensed group home is any residential facility subject
to state licensing requirements pursuant to the California Health
and Safety Code, implementing state regulations, and amendments thereto.
Any group home which is subject to State licensing requirements shall
be treated as an unlicensed group home if the facility's license has
expired or such license has been suspended, revoked or terminated.
Group homes subject to State licensing requirements include the following:
Residential facilities providing nonmedical residential care,
specifically, any residential community care facility (Health and
Safety Code Section 1502), a residential care facility for the elderly
(Health and Safety Code Section 1569.2) and an alcoholism or drug
abuse recovery or treatment facility (Health and Safety Code Section
11834.11).
The following types of health facilities (Health and Safety
Code Section 1250), specifically, a congregate living health facility
(Health and Safety Code Section 1250(i)); an intermediate care facility/developmentally
disabled habilitative facility (Health and Safety Code Section 1250(e));
an intermediate care facility/developmentally disabled (Health and
Safety Code Section 1250(g)), and an intermediate care facility/developmentally
disabled-nursing (Health and Safety Code Section 1250(h)).
Unlicensed Group Home.
An unlicensed group home is the use of a dwelling unit by
an owner or operator as a dormitory, boarding house, rooming house,
or similar use, where such residential facility is not subject to
State licensing requirements or whose State license has expired, or
has been suspended or revoked.
A gas, material, or substance capable of posing a risk to
health, safety, or property; provided, however, use of hazardous materials
contained in consumer-sized containers purchased solely for on-site
maintenance activities shall not be considered a hazardous materials
use for the purpose of these regulations. The Fire Chief or designee
has the exclusive authority to develop and apply regulations which
determine which, if any, of the Group A, B, or C and included categories
utilized in the Industrial District regulations is applicable to a
user of any hazardous materials; such regulations may include reference
to Federal and State law, standards, and regulations applicable to
hazardous materials. Hazardous materials which belong to more than
one group or category shall be subject to the most stringent regulations.
In addition to the following classifications, please refer to specific
Zoning Districts for hazardous materials land use requirements.
Group A.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Hazardous materials which include any of the following:
Explosives and blasting agents.
Reactive materials.
Unstable materials.
Radioactive materials.
Class 3 and 4 oxidizing materials.
Poisonous or toxic materials.
Corrosive, poisonous, or unstable gases.
State of California restricted hazardous wastes, including substances
classified as extremely hazardous wastes.
Group C.
a.
b.
c.
d.
Hazardous materials which include any of the following:
Combustible liquids, namely liquids that have a flashpoint at
or above 100° Fahrenheit.
Inert gases.
Other regulated materials referred to in the following sources
except Group A or B hazardous materials.
49 Code of Federal Regulations Section 173.500, including amendments
or successors thereto.
Any occupation conducted within the living area of a dwelling unit by the occupants. (See Section 19.10.040.)
An institution devoted primarily to the maintenance and operation
of facilities for the medical or surgical care of patients for 24
hours or more. The term "hospital" as used in this title does not
apply to institutions operating solely for the treatment of mentally
ill persons, addiction rehabilitation, or other types of cases necessitating
confinement of patients, and the term "hospital" shall not be used
for convalescent, nursing, shelter or boarding homes.
A building where lodging with or without meals is provided
to the general public for compensation typically on a nightly basis,
and where no provision is made for cooking in any individual guest
room or suite, and where a maximum continuous length of stay is no
longer than 28 days established for transient occupancy tax of the
City of Plymouth Municipal Code.
A lot, building, structure, enclosure, or premises where
one or more dogs, cats, or other household pets are kept for commercial
purposes, including boarding, breeding of more than one litter per
year and/or a litter every year, sale of goods or animals, or the
rendering of services for profit.
An area devoted to or developed and maintained predominantly
with native or exotic plant materials including lawn, groundcover,
trees, shrubs, and other plant materials; and also including accessory
decorative outdoor landscape elements such as pools, fountains, paved,
or decorated surfaces (excluding driveways, parking, loading, or storage
areas), and sculptural elements.
An establishment which sells to the public at retail prices
alcoholic beverages in original, unopened packages for consumption
off of the premises where sold.
See Animal Keeping and Agriculture.
A structure or portion of a structure that combines a commercial
or manufacturing activity allowed in the zone with a residential living
space for the owner of the business, or the owner's employee.
A recorded parcel of land established by plot, subdivision,
or as otherwise permitted by law, to be used, developed, or built
upon. The classification of lots is as follows:
Average Lot Size.
A computation based on overall density for a larger development
where lots are of different sizes and may include open space within
the calculation.
Average Lot Width.
The mean horizontal distance between the longest lot lines
of lots having regular geometric design.
Corner Lot.
A lot at the intersection of two or more streets which has
an angle of intersection of 135 degrees or less. Where the angle of
intersection exceeds 135 degrees, the area abutting the two streets
shall be a front yard.
Flag Lot.
A parcel of land where the buildable portion of the lot is
via a narrow extension of the lot (access strip) to a public or approved
private street, utilizing a private or privately shared egress. The
area within an access strip shall not be counted as part of the lot
area for purposes of complying with minimum lot area requirements.
Interior Lot.
A lot other than a corner lot.
Lot Coverage.
The area of a lot enclosed by exterior walls, or similar
roof-supporting devices of all structures, including accessory structures
and patio covers. Also see Floor Area Ratio.
Lot Depth.
The average distance between the front and rear lot lines
or between the front line and the intersection of the two side lines,
if there is no rear line. In instances of a cul-de-sac where the front
lot line is curved, the lot depth shall be measured off a drawn line
which connects the two side lot lines that intersect the cul-de-sac.
Lot Frontage.
The common property line of a lot and the right-of-way line
of a street.
Lot Size (or Lot Area).
The total horizontal area within the lot lines of a lot,
with the exception of flag-shaped lots where the lot area shall be
calculated excluding the stem of the lot.
Through Lot.
A lot having frontage on two approximately parallel streets.
Zero Lot Line.
The location of a structure on a lot in such a manner that
one or more of the structure's sides rest directly on a lot line.
A factory-built or manufactured home including mobile homes,
as permitted by State of California and Federal laws. A manufactured
home is synonymous with the definition of a "single-family dwelling"
and may be erected with or without a permanent foundation.
Repair, maintenance, preparation, compounding, processing,
packing, treating, fabricating, or assembling of items of any kind
(i.e., electronics assembly). May involve certain hazardous materials
as defined herein (see also Hazardous Materials). Activities may generate
noise, odor, vibration and dust, as well as truck traffic, and may
involve outdoor storage and other outdoor processing or distribution
activities.
Facility primarily engaged in providing outpatient medical,
mental health, surgical, and other personal health services, separate
from hospitals, including medical and dental laboratories, medical,
dental, acupuncture, and psychiatric offices, outpatient care facilities,
and other allied health services. Counseling services by other than
medical doctors or psychiatrists are also included under Office, Business
and Professional.
A retail establishment where alcoholic beverages are produced
and sold for consumption either on- or off-premises.
A type of manufactured housing that is subject to the National
Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Act of 1974.
A business that moves from place to place, or which is able
to move from place to place, selling or delivering food or goods in
the city.
A land use designed for, used, or intended to be used for
the parking and occupancy of two or more mobile homes for dwelling
or sleeping purposes.
An establishment engaged in the preparation of human bodies
and the arrangement and holding of funeral services prior to burial
or final disposition. For the purposes of this title, a mortuary may
include a crematory. See also Cemetery/Mausoleum.
A group of attached or detached buildings containing individual
sleeping or living units designed for temporary occupancy by visitors,
with garage attached or parking space conveniently located to each
unit.
A structure, lot, or use which did not conform to applicable
laws when constructed or initiated, and does not conform to the provisions
of this title.
A lot, the area, frontage, or dimensions of which do not
conform to the provisions of this title.
A structure which conformed to applicable laws when constructed
or first occupied but does not conform to the provisions of this title.
A use complying with applicable laws when established but
does not conform to the provisions of this title.
An activity or land use which is determined to be detrimental
or incompatible with adjacent properties, adjacent property owners
or users, or the general public.
An establishment which grows flowers, shrubs, and trees and
provides them for sale at retail to the public. Typically includes
related items such as seeds, bulbs, pots, potting soil, etc.
These uses include offices of administrative businesses providing
direct services to consumers (e.g., insurance companies, utility companies),
government agency and service facilities (e.g., post office, civic
center), professional offices (e.g., accounting, attorneys, public
relations), and offices engaged in the production of intellectual
property (e.g., advertising, architecture, computer programming).
This use does not include medical offices (see Medical Services, General)
or offices that are incidental and accessory to another business or
sales activity that is the primary use.
Open space and recreational amenities required or provided
for site-specific residential development. This is further defined
as follows:
Common Usable Open Space.
An on-site, ground level area of lawn, pool, garden court
with paving, rooftop recreational area, or recreation room accessible
to all dwelling units and used by residents. The space does not include
the required front or side street yard, off-street parking, driveways,
service areas, or areas of more than five percent slope. (Refer to
appropriate sections of this title for specific requirements.)
Private Usable Open Space.
An on-site area of lawn, or garden court with paving, patio,
deck, or balcony directly accessible only to one dwelling unit from
a living and non-service area, which is not more than four feet above
or below the floor level. The space shall not include the required
front or street side yard, areas devoted to off-street parking, driveways,
service, or areas of more than three percent slope. Usually applied
to attached single-family dwellings.
A land use zoning district intended to protect environmental
resources or provide land devoted to parks, recreation, or passive
or active open space uses for the enjoyment of all members of the
community. The district may be used to preserve and protect land areas
of special or unusual ecological or geographic interest.
A parcel of land under one ownership that has been legally
subdivided or combined and is shown as a single parcel on the latest
equalized assessment roll.
A parking area which provides the required parking for a use in accordance with the City of Plymouth Parking Regulations (Chapter 19.76). The following definitions apply:
Covered Parking.
Parking space(s) which are contained within a carport or
garage.
Parking Lot.
An off-street area, whether open or enclosed, other than
a showroom or sales lot, used to store motor vehicles on a daily basis,
but not including the storage of dismantled or wrecked motor vehicles
or parts thereof. A parking lot may be commercial, public, or private.
Off-Street Parking.
Parking stalls provided beyond the right-of-way of a street
or highway.
Off-Street Parking Space.
Parking stalls provided or required to serve the land use,
building(s) and its occupants, configured on the land area so designated
for that purpose. May be on-site (immediately adjacent to building
or within the same parcel) or off-site (not immediately adjacent to
the use or on a nearby parcel).
On-Street Parking.
Parking stalls provided within the right-of-way of a street
or highway.
Open or Uncovered Parking.
Parking space(s) which are not contained within a carport
or garage.
A specified use allowed in a zoning district and subject
to the provisions applicable to that district.
Generally retail and service such as nail and hair salons,
dry cleaners, shoe shine, tailors, cosmetic supplies, some quasi professional
offices such as weight loss, yoga, or counseling.
A Zoning District that allows for the creative use and design of land that adheres to a specific development plan approved by the City, the purpose of which will result in efficient and attractive utilization of land in order to preserve open space areas, topographical features, ridge tops, and tree clusters. This district permits a mix of housing types and nonresidential development. See Chapter 19.28 Planned Development.
The Planning Commission of the City of Plymouth, California.
The Planning Director for the City of Plymouth, California.
This includes his or her staff members as appointed to represent him
or her.
The principal or predominant use of any lot, building, or
structure.
Facilities, structures, and accessory uses which house public
agencies such as Federal, State, or local government, and other agencies
such as utility and telephone companies governed by the Public Utilities
Commission.
A park, playground, swimming pool, reservoir, golf course,
or athletic field within the City which is under the control, operation
or management of the City of Plymouth, Amador County, the State of
California or Federal government.
Any premises where rock, sand, gravel, earth, or minerals
are removed or excavated for the purpose of disposition away from
the immediate premises, whether the disposition is immediate or at
some future date.
Those facilities maintained to provide a pastime, sport,
or exercise as a means to refresh one's body or mind, and ancillary
activities as determined by the Planning Director, and whose other
functions are not indicated elsewhere in this title as administrative
or conditional uses. May be a commercial or noncommercial facility.
A vehicle primarily designed as temporary living quarters
for recreational, camping, or travel use.
A parcel or group of contiguous parcels upon which two or
more recreational vehicles, camper trailers, and boats may be stored
for a fee when not in use.
A facility for the collection of large quantities of recyclable
materials such as metals, glass, plastic, and paper. Such a facility
shall not do processing except limited bailing, batching, and sorting
of materials. Recycling facilities include bins, kiosk type structures,
bulk reverse vending machines, trucks, trailers, or vans.
Any indoor or outdoor space allocated to collecting and loading
recyclable materials to be transported to a recycling center. May
include a limited number of bins, boxes, cans, kiosk type structures,
and reverse vending machines.
Those facilities maintained by a tax-exempt religious institution
or other nonprofit organization exempt from taxation under the Internal
Revenue Service laws. This includes any organized system of belief
in God or gods or of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices,
and ancillary activities, as determined by the Planning Director,
and whose other functions are not indicated elsewhere in this title
as administrative or conditional uses.
Any establishment selling food and beverages prepared and
or served on site, for consumption either on- or off-premises. This
use category includes take-away, coffee houses, bakery, delicatessen,
and fine dining. Restaurants can be divided into three categories:
Restaurant, No Alcohol Service.
Restaurants that do not serve alcohol.
Restaurant, Beer and Wine.
Restaurants limited to beer and wine services.
Restaurant, Full Liquor Service.
Restaurants licensed to serve a full range of liquor.
The retail sales of various products (including food service)
in a store or similar facility that is located within a health care,
hotel, office, or industrial complex. This use category also includes
retail associated with industrial uses for the products sold, distributed,
or manufactured on-site. Such retail area shall not exceed 25% of
the total square footage of the tenant space.
Stores and shops selling single and multiple lines of merchandise
including bakeries, clothing and accessories, collectibles, general
goods stores, drug and discount stores, dry goods, florists and houseplant
stores, gift shops, hardware, hobby materials, musical instruments,
parts and accessories, newsstands, pet supplies specialty shops, sporting
goods and equipment, and resale establishments.
Means a strip of land used or acquired by reservation, dedication,
prescription, or condemnation and intended to be used or occupied
by a road, trail, water line, sanitary sewer and/or other public utility
services and uses, or any combination thereof, and includes all and
any part of the entire width or other area of designated right-of-way,
whether or not such entire width or area is actually used. Right-of-way
includes access, pedestrian, equestrian and utility easements. The
following subdefinitions are provided:
Public Right-of-Way.
A right-of-way owned by the City or any other public entity
or public utility.
Private Right-of-Way.
A right-of-way owned by and for the benefit of one or more
persons, including a right-of-way offered for dedication to the City
or to any other public entity which has not been accepted and on which
no improvements or maintenance has regularly been performed by the
City or other public entity.
Railroad Right-of-Way.
A strip of land on which railroad tracks, spur tracks, sidings,
switching equipment and signals are located, and includes the entire
width or other area of the designated right-of-way, whether or not
the entire width or area is actually used for such railroad facilities.
A zoning overlay which promotes and protects the rural character
and main impressions of the City of Plymouth's character and has specific
architectural, landscape, and other design requirements for new development
which enhance the image of the City. This district comprises the subdistrict
of State Highway 49.
The required distance that a building, structure, parking,
or other designated item must be located from a lot line.
See Dwelling Unit.
An inclined ground surface, the inclination of which may
be expressed as a ratio of horizontal distance to a vertical distance,
in degrees or as a percentage. Slope percentage = Rise/Run X 100 =
%. Slope Ratio = Run/Rise = (X) feet run to one foot rise = X : 1
|
% Grade
|
100%
|
50%
|
40%
|
33.3%
|
30%
|
25%
|
20%
|
15%
|
12%
|
10%
|
8%
|
6%
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Degrees
|
45
|
26.6
|
21.8
|
18.4
|
16.7
|
14
|
11.3
|
8.5
|
6.8
|
5.7
|
4.6
|
3.4
|
|
Ratio
|
1:1
|
2:1
|
2.5:1
|
3:1
|
3.3:1
|
4:1
|
5:1
|
6.7:1
|
8.3:1
|
10:1
|
12.5:1
|
16.7:1
|
A space or place where goods, materials, and/or personal
property is put for more than 24 hours. The following subdefinitions
are provided:
Automobile Storage Yard.
Outside storage of passenger cars and/or trucks of all sizes
in excess of 10% of an open yard area, excluding any required yard
or parking area. Does not include auto wrecking or towing yards.
Minor Open Storage.
Outside storage that is accessory or ancillary to the primary
or conditional use conducted on the site, which shall not exceed 10%
of an open yard area, excluding any required yard or parking area.
Major Open Storage.
Uses not conducted completely within an enclosed building,
such as major outdoor storage in excess of 10% of an open yard area,
excluding any required yard or parking area, or as determined by the
Planning Director. Typically includes a construction yard where equipment
and materials are stored.
Public Storage Facility.
A space or place within an enclosed building where goods,
materials, and/or personal property may be put for more than 24 hours
for a fee. Typically includes a manager's dwelling unit and customer
parking.
Recreational Vehicle Storage Facility.
See definition for Recreational Vehicle.
The portion of a building included between the upper surface
of any floor and the upper surface of the floor next above.
A publicly maintained right-of-way for use as a public thoroughfare
by the public at large, or a private street, provided said private
street has been approved by the City Council.
Any change which would prolong the life of the supporting
members of a building or structure, such as bearing walls, columns,
beams, or girders.
Anything constructed or erected, except fences not exceeding
six feet in height, which requires permanent location on the ground
or is attached to something having location on the ground.
The division of land as regulated by Title 16, Subdivisions.
A use established for a specific period of time, with the
intent to discontinue the use at the end of the designated time period.
Examples includes retail sidewalk or tent sales. For animals, "temporary
use" shall mean the keeping of animals for specified periods of time
either following birth, for purposes of recovery by nonprofit breed
rescue organizations, or other reasons as determined by the Planning
Director.
A vehicle without motor power used or adaptable for living,
sleeping, business, or storage purposes, having no function other
than wheels, blocks, skids, jacks, horses, or skirting, which does
not meet building requirements and has been or reasonably may be equipped
with wheels or other devices for transporting the structure from place
to place. A permanent foundation shall not change its character unless
the entire structure is erected and maintained in accordance with
prevailing laws.
The purpose or activity for which the land, or building is
designed, arranged or intended, or for which it is occupied or maintained.
A land use permit termed a "discretionary entitlement" to
operate a specified land use on a given parcel. Usually an activity
or business. The following subcategories of use permit are provided:
Administrative Use Permit.
A Use Permit issued administratively by the Planning Director
or his or her appointee. An Administrative Use Permit is typically
subject to findings and conditions of approval.
Conditional Use Permit.
A Use Permit issued by the Planning Commission or City Council
through a public hearing process. A Conditional Use Permit is typically
subject to findings and conditions of approval.
A discretionary entitlement which permits the departure from
the strict application of the development standards contained in this
Zoning Code.
A facility where goods are stored. Typically, items are stored
and awaiting distribution to an off-site wholesale and/or retail facility.
Does not include public storage facilities. See also Distribution
Facility.
The sale of commodities and goods to an establishment for
resale to the consumer.
A machine that converts the kinetic energy in the wind into
a usable form. A wind energy conversion system is commonly known as
a windmill or wind turbine, and includes all parts of the system including
the tower and the transmission equipment.
An establishment that sells wines on behalf of one or more
wineries and enables consumers to taste wine (with and without charge)
as a regular part of the sales business.
An open space other than a court, on a lot, unoccupied and
unobstructed from the ground upward except as otherwise provided herein.
A yard extends along a lot line or official plan line to a depth or
width specified in the yard regulations for the district in which
such lot is located.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1; Ord. 2022-03 § 4)
means an antenna operated by a person holding a written authorization
from the Federal Communications Commission to be the control operator
of an amateur station.
means any system of wires, poles, rods, reflecting discs,
or similar devices used for the transmission or reception of electromagnetic
waves when such system is either external to or attached to the exterior
of a structure. Antennas shall include devices having active elements
extending in any direction, and directional beam-type array having
elements carried by and disposed from a generally horizontal boom
that may be mounted upon and rotated through a vertical mast or tower
interconnecting the boom and antenna support, all of which elements
are deemed to be a part of the antenna. Antennas shall include cellular
on wheels (COWs) and cellular on light trucks (COLTs) facilities;
as well as dispatch carriers for Specialized Mobile Radio (SMR) services
and Enhanced SMR (ESMR).
"Antenna—building-mounted"
means any antenna, other than an antenna with its supports
resting on the ground, directly attached or affixed to a building,
tank, tower, building-mounted mast less than 10 feet tall above the
roof ridge line and six inches in diameter, or structure other than
a telecommunications tower.
"Antenna—directional"
(Also Known As A "Panel" Antenna) Transmits And/Or Receives
Radio Frequency Signals In A Directional Pattern Of Less Than 360
Degrees.
"Antenna—façade-mounted"
means An Antenna That Is Directly Attached Or Affixed To
Any Façade Of A Building Or Other Structure. Also Known As
A Building-Mounted Antenna.
"Antenna—ground-mounted"
means an antenna with its support structure or base placed
directly on the ground, the total height of which does not exceed
14 feet, including the height of the antennas.
"Antenna—omni-directional"
(also known as stick, whip, or pipe antennas) means any antenna
which transmits and/or receives radio frequency signals in a 360 degree
horizontal pattern and a compressed vertical plane. For the purpose
of this article, omni-directional antennas have diameters between
two and six inches, and measures between one and eighteen (18) feet
in height.
"Antenna—panel."
See "Antenna—Directional."
"Antenna—parabolic"
(also known as a satellite dish antenna) means any device
incorporating a reflective surface that is solid, open mesh, or bar-configured
that is shallow dish, cone, horn, bowl, or cornucopia shaped and is
used to transmit and/or receive electromagnetic or radio frequency
communication/signals in a specific directional pattern. This definition
includes, but is not limited to, satellite earth stations, TVROs,
and satellite microwave antennas.
"Antenna—portable"
means any device used to transmit and/or receive electromagnetic
or radio frequency communication/signals in a specific directional
pattern, located on a portable or moveable base designed to be placed
either for temporary or long-term use at a given site.
"Antenna—roof-mounted"
means an antenna directly attached or affixed to the roof,
generally freestanding, of an existing building or structure other
than a telecommunications tower.
"Antenna—vertical"
means a vertical type antenna without horizontal cross-sections
greater than one-half inch in diameter.
"Antenna—whip."
See "Antenna—Omni-Directional."
"Antenna array"
means a structure attached to a telecommunications tower
that supports a telecommunications antenna or antennas.
"Antenna array group"
means more than two sets of antennas by different service
providers placed on a monopole, tower, building, or other support
structure or on multiple poles, towers, buildings, or other support
structures on the same parcel of land or on different parcels where
the antennas are located within 200 feet from each other (also known
as an antenna farm).
means a wireless telecommunications facility comprising a
single telecommunications tower, monopole, or building supporting
antennas owned or used by more than one telecommunications carrier.
Co-location shall also include the location of wireless telecommunications
facilities with other facilities such as water tanks, light standards,
and other utility facilities and structures (see also Telecommunications
Facility).
means a use that involves the exchange of cash, goods, or
services, barter, forgiveness of indebtedness, or any other remuneration
in exchange for goods, services, lodging, meals, entertainment in
any form, or the right to occupy space over any period of time.
is a system in which signals are transmitted directly from
a satellite to a small home receiving dish which does not exceed 18
inches in diameter. The system is commonly marketed as Digital Satellite
System (DSS). DBS or DSS competes with cable television.
means a type of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (radio
frequency within the electromagnetic spectrum) which our bodies ordinarily
cannot detect, including radio and TV signals and microwaves. Other
forms of this radiation include ordinary light, which we can see,
and infrared radiation, which we sense as heat.
means a cabinet or building at a facility site used to house
equipment which supports a telecommunication system.
See "Amateur [HAM] antenna."
means any residence, any other structure regularly occupied
by people, or any outdoor area used by people on a regular basis.
means a self-supporting support structure, erected on the
ground, which consists of metal cross-strips or bars to support antennas
and related equipment.
means the maximum earthquake predicted to affect a given
location based on the known lengths of the active faults in the vicinity.
is a wireless communication facility which consists of a
single-pole structure or spire, erected on the ground to support wireless
communication antennas and appurtenances.
means a use operated or used by a public body or public utility
in connection with any of the following services: water, waste water
management, public education, parks and recreation, fire and police
protection, solid waste management, transportation, or utilities.
means and includes all public streets and utility easements,
now and hereafter owned by the City, but only to the extent of the
City's right, title, interest, or authority to grant a license to
occupy and use such streets and easements for telecommunications facilities.
means a use serving the public at large, and operated by
a private entity under a franchise or other similar governmental authorization,
designed to promote the interests of the general public or operated
by a recognized civic organization for the benefit of the general
public.
means an object that stands out as a prominent feature of
the landscape.
means all equipment ancillary to the transmission and reception
of voice and data via radio frequencies. Such equipment may include,
but is not limited to, cable, conduit, and connectors.
See "Structure or roof ridge line."
means a telecommunications facility consisting of more than
a single satellite dish smaller than 10 feet in diameter that transmits
to and/or receives signals from an orbiting satellite.
means a representation of the outline of the towers and antenna
associated with a telecommunications facility, as seen from an elevation
perspective.
means any communications facility which is designed to blend
into the surrounding environment, and is visually unobtrusive. Examples
of stealth facilities may include architecturally screened roof-mounted
antennas, building-mounted antennas painted and treated as architectural
elements to blend with the existing building. Also known as concealed
telecommunications facilities.
means a monopole that is disguised or camouflaged using existing
vegetation, as a flag pole, public art, light pole, clock tower, etc.
A slim pole with antennas that are flush with the structure is not
considered a stealth pole. The Director of Community and Economic
Development/Planning Director shall make the determination of what
constitutes a stealth pole.
means the line along the top of a roof or top of a structure,
if the structure has no raised roof.
means a wireless facility that transmits and/or receives
electromagnetic signals. It includes antennas, microwave dishes, horns,
and other types equipment for the transmission or receipt of such
signals, telecommunications towers, or similar structures supporting
said equipment, equipment buildings, parking area, and other accessory
development.
means a structure more than 10 feet tall, built primarily
for wireless transmission.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
The following terms serve to define the character and condition
of signs referenced throughout Title 19.
Any sign which is located on a premises that has been vacated
for a period of more than 90 days.
Any sign which uses mechanical or electrical movement or
change of lighting, either natural or artificial, to depict action
or to create visual motion or the appearance thereof.
The measurable surface area of a sign, calculated as described in Chapter 19.92.
Any structure made of a flexible fabric or similar material
covering a metal frame attached to a building, whether or not the
same is so erected so as to permit its being raised to a position
flat against the building when not in use.
A flexible bag made of a material such as rubber, latex,
polychloroprene, or a nylon fabric that is filled with a gas such
as helium, hydrogen, nitrous oxide, or air. A balloon qualifies as
a "sign" when it is larger than eight cubic feet in volume or is stationed
at or above 10 feet above the ground.
Any sign of lightweight fabric or similar material that is
mounted to a building at one or more edges. Flags shall not be considered
banners (see flag definition).
A sign which meets one or more of the following criteria:
A permanent structure sign which is used for the display of
off-site commercial messages.
A permanent structure sign which constitutes a principal, separate,
or secondary use, as opposed to an accessory use, of the parcel on
which it is located.
An outdoor sign used as advertising for hire, e.g., on which
display space is made available to parties, other than the owner or
operator of the sign or occupant of the parcel (not including those
who rent space from the sign owner, when such space is on the same
parcel or is the same development as the sign), in exchange for a
rent, fee, or other consideration.
An off-site outdoor advertising sign on which space is leased
or rented.
A small, pedestrian-oriented sign that projects perpendicular
from a structure (bracket sign) or is hung beneath a canopy (blade
sign; may also be referred to as an under-canopy sign).
A sign placed on a wall, awning, canopy, parapet, or a projecting
sign. Also see Wall Sign, Canopy Sign, Blade/Bracket Sign.
The building frontage that faces the street. In cases where
a building has more than one street frontage, the longest of the street
frontages shall be considered the primary building frontage. In cases
where a business has no building frontage facing a street, the building
frontage with the primary business entrance shall be considered the
primary building frontage (e.g., an entrance facing a courtyard).
For multi-tenant buildings, ground floor tenants may have their primary
frontage determined independently of the rest of the building based
upon the aforementioned rules.
Any sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy,
or other material, or structural protective cover over a door, entrance,
window, or outdoor service area.
A sign which has a readerboard for the display of text information
in which each alphanumeric character, graphic, or symbol is defined
by objects, not consisting of an illumination device and may be changed
or re-arranged manually or mechanically with characters, letters,
or illustrations that can be changed or rearranged without altering
the face of the surface of the sign.
A sign or portion thereof that displays electronic, static
images, static graphics or static pictures, with or without text information,
defined by a small number of matrix elements using different combination
of light-emitting diodes, fiber optics, light bulbs, or other illumination
devices within the display area where the message change sequence
is accomplished immediately or by means of fade, repixalization, or
dissolve modes. Electronic graphic display signs include computer
programmable, microprocessor-controlled electronic or digital displays.
Electronic graphic display signs include projected images or messages
with these characteristics onto building or other objects.
A sign made up of individual letters that are independently
mounted to a wall or other surface. The "air space" between the letters
is not part of the sign structure but rather of the building façade.
A logo may also be considered a channel letter provided it is clearly
distinguishable from other sign elements.
A human or live animal used as a commercial advertising or
signaling device. Sometimes called sign twirlers or sign clowns.
Any sign wording, logo, or other representation that names
or advertises a business, product, service, or other commercial activity.
A sign identifying fraternal, benevolent, social services,
and religious organizations and setting forth time, place, and location
of meetings within the City.
A temporary sign located on a site where physical construction
is occurring or is scheduled to begin in the near future.
For purposes of this chapter, development shall mean a proposed
or already constructed building or group of buildings.
The portion of a digital freeway sign that consists of digital
display area(s) used for general commercial advertising. See also
Sign Structure.
An off-site outdoor advertising sign with one or more digital
display areas. A digital freeway sign may be internally or externally
illuminated. Digital freeway signs are always considered off-site
signs and are regulated as such.
A sign located on the same property as an establishment primarily
providing direction to guide vehicles and pedestrians to businesses,
including, but not limited to, those signs identifying parking area
and circulation patterns.
A pedestrian-oriented sign that identifies or lists the names
and locations of tenants at a multi-tenant site.
A sign or portion thereof that displays electronic, static
images, static graphics or static pictures, with or without text information,
defined by a small number of matrix elements using different combinations
of light-emitting diodes, fiber optics, light bulbs or other illumination
devices within the display area where the message change sequence
is accomplished immediately or by means of fade, repixalization or
dissolve modes. Electronic graphic display signs include computer
programmable, microprocessor-controlled electronic or digital displays.
Electronic graphic display signs include project images or messages
with these characteristics onto building or other objects.
An electronic sign, typically comprising a liquid crystal
diode, light-emitting diode, plasma, or other digital illuminated
sign that displays one or more messages. An electronic message sign
is different from an illuminated sign in that the illumination of
the display creates the message, rather than illumination illuminating
the message.
Any nonresidential use of land involving structures, as defined
in the Building Code, and the presence of human beings during normal
hours of operation. This definition includes businesses, factories,
farms, schools, hospitals, hotels and motels, offices, and libraries,
but does not include power transformer or other utility facilities
at which human beings are usually not present, single-family homes,
mobile homes, residential apartments, residential care facilities,
or residential condominiums.
A sign which is not subject to a building or sign permit,
Temporary Use Permit, or other approval.
A change in color, material, copy, graphics, or visual image
that requires the installation of a new or modified sign face, but
which does not involve any change to an existing sign structure or
mounting device.
Any fabric, banner, or bunting containing distinctive colors,
patterns, or design that displays the symbol(s) of a nation, state,
local government, company, organization, belief system, idea, or other
meaning.
An illuminated sign that exhibits changing light or color
effect by blinking or any other such means so as to provide a non-constant,
flashing or intermittent illumination.
A permanent sign that is self-supporting in a fixed location
and not attached to a building. It includes a sign connected or attached
to a sign structure, fence, or wall that is not an integral part of
a building. Freestanding signs are of three types: monument, pole,
and pylon.
Signs erected for the purpose of announcing the future occupancy
of a new tenant, other than the current resident tenant, and intended
to be temporary advertising in nature.
The occasional non-business public sale of secondhand household
and other goods incidental to household uses by a person or persons
from a residential use, intended for the temporary advertisement of
a specific event.
Signs identifying the brand, types, octane rating, etc.,
of gasoline for sale, as required by State law.
The business of advertising or promoting other businesses
or causes using methods of advertising, in contrast to self-promotion
or on-site advertising; also known as advertising for hire.
Any temporary or permanent sign erected and maintained by
or required by the City or the County, State, or Federal government
for the purpose of providing official governmental information to
the general public, including, but not limited to, traffic direction,
City entrance, or for designation of direction to any school, hospital,
historical site, or public service, property or facility.
A sign located at a residence advertising a business or profession
legally conducted in the residence.
Expressions on a business without the use of words or copy
that thereby make maximum use of logos and graphics to represent the
establishment.
A sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally
or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign. This includes
signs made from neon or other gas tube(s) that are bent to form letters,
symbols, or other shapes. Excludes electronic message sign, which
is separately defined.
A sign, emblem, or decal informing the public of goods, facilities,
or services available on the premises, including, but not limited
to, rest rooms, phones, credit cards, or hours of business.
A sign installed in a drive-through facility and oriented
so as to be visible primarily by drive-through customers.
A sign constructed upon a solid-appearing base or pedestal
(typically stone, brick, or concrete), the total width of which is
at least 50% of the overall height of the sign. Also see Pylon Sign
and Pole Sign.
Any sign composed in whole or in part of a series of vertical
or horizontal slats or cylinder that are capable of being rotated
at intervals so that partial rotation of the group of slats or cylinders
produces a different image and when properly functioning allows on
a single sign structure the display at any given time one or two or
more images.
A sign attached to a wall that identifies the occupant.
A sign which displays noncommercial speech, e.g., commentary
or advocacy on topics of public debate and concern.
A sign lawfully erected and legally existing at the time
of the effective date of an ordinance, but which does not conform
to the provisions of this chapter.
A sign which directs attention to a business, profession
commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered elsewhere
than upon the same lot or parcel on which said sign is located. This
definition shall include billboards, posters, panels, painted bulletins,
and similar advertising displays. The off-site/on-site distinction
applies only to commercial messages. Off-site signs meet any one of
the following criteria:
A permanent structure sign which is used for the display of
off-site commercial messages.
A permanent structure sign which constitutes a principal, separate,
or secondary use, as opposed to an accessory use, of the parcel on
which it is located.
An outdoor sign used as advertising for hire, e.g., on which
display space is made available to parties other than the owner or
operator of the sign or occupant of the parcel in exchange for a rent,
fee, or other consideration.
An off-site outdoor advertising sign on which space is leased
or rented.
A sign which directs attention to a business, profession,
commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered upon
the lot or parcel on which the sign is placed. The off-site/on-site
distinction applies only to commercial messages. In the case of multiple
tenant commercial or industrial developments, a sign is considered
on-site whenever it is located anywhere within the development.
Any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether
or not containing a message of any kind, attached to a rope, wire,
or string, usually in a series, designed to move in the wind and attract
attention.
An on-site freestanding sign, supported by a sign structure
from the ground which identifies businesses located on the same parcel/development
on which the sign is located. Generally, pole signs are supported
by one or more metal or wood posts, pipes, or other vertical supports.
The support structure is not integrated into the overall design of
the sign.
Any on-site or off-site advertising device defined as a sign
that is not permanently attached to a building or to the ground. Portable
signs include signs that can be transported; signs configured as A-frame
or T-frame; menu and sandwich board signs; and umbrellas used for
advertising. Clothing or other aspects of personal appearance are
not within this definition (see Commercial Mascot).
Primary site frontage is the longest frontage of a site that
adjoins or fronts onto a public right-of-way.
An on-site freestanding sign, supported by a sign structure
from the ground which identifies businesses located on the same parcel
or in the same development on which the sign is located. Pylon signs
are designed such that the support structure and the sign face are
designed as one architecturally unified and proportional element.
A sign on which copy is changed manually in the field or
electronically, including, but not limited to, theater marquee signs,
business directories, church and museum signs, and gas price signs.
Any sign, temporary in nature, the copy of which concerns
a proposed economic transaction involving real property. This definition
does not include occupancy signs at establishments offering transient
occupancy, such as hotels and motels.
The top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is
higher, excluding any cupolas, pylons, chimneys, or minor projections.
A sign installed on a roof or projecting above the eve of
a building or mounted on an arcade or parapet.
Any structure, device, fixture, placard or inscription located
upon, attached to, or painted on any land, structure, surface, or
on an awning, canopy, marquee or similar appendage, and which displays
or includes any numeral, letter, word, model, banner, emblem, insignia,
symbol, device, light, trademark, or other representation used as
an announcement, advertisement, attention arrester, direction, warning,
or designation of any person, firm, group, organization, place, commodity,
product, service, business, profession, enterprise, or industry when
such image is visible from any public right-of-way. The following
are not within this definition:
Architectural Features.
Decorative or architectural features of buildings (not including
lettering, trademarks, or moving parts) or symbols embedded in the
structure itself.
Fireworks, Etc.
The legal use of fireworks, candles, and artificial lighting
not otherwise regulated by this chapter.
Manufacturers' Marks.
Marks on tangible products which identify the maker, seller,
provider, or product and which customarily remain attached to the
product even after sale.
Personal Appearance.
Items of personal apparel, decoration, or appearance, including
tattoos, makeup, wigs, costumes, masks, etc.
The portion of a sign that affixes to the structure or land
and ensures its safe integrity including electrical utilities installed
on the sign site.
A sign located at the entrance to a neighborhood for the
purpose of a permanent identification of the subdivision. Such signs
are of a permanent nature, usually constructed of long-lasting, weather-resistant
materials such as stone or metal.
A limited-term sign providing direction for vehicular and/or
pedestrian traffic to the initial home sales of multiple lots with
a single builder within a master planned community. All other home
sales are included within the definition of Real Estate Sign.
A sign not constructed or intended for long-term use. If
a sign does not qualify as a "structure" under the Building Code,
it is presumably a temporary sign, but subject to the interpretation
of the Planning Director. Types of temporary signs include on-site
subdivision balloons, directional signs and flags; building attached
signs (e.g., banners and blade signs); and freestanding signs (A-boards,
vertical ground-mounted banners, and flags).
A sign that comprises a three-dimensional object that graphically
or iconically brands an establishment or development. Such signs may
be used as both building-attached or freestanding signs.
An electronic or mechanical device that shows time and/or
temperature but contains no business identification or advertising.
See Blade/Bracket Sign.
Any sign exceeding 10 square feet in area mounted, painted,
placed on, attached, or affixed to a trailer, watercraft, truck, automobile
or other form of motor vehicle so parked or placed so that the sign
thereon is discernable from a public street or right-of-way as a means
of communication and which by its location, size, and manner of display
is reasonably calculated to exhibit commercial advertising, identifying
an on-site business, or supplying directional information to an off-site
business. A vehicle sign may be defined as a vehicle that functions
primarily as a sign rather than as a transportation device as determined
by consideration of any combination or the following factors:
The absence of a current, lawful license plate affixed to the
vehicle on which the sign is displayed.
The vehicle on which the sign is displayed is inoperable as
defined by this City Code.
The vehicle on which the sign is displayed is not parked in
an identified parking space on the lot.
The vehicle on which the sign is displayed is not regularly
used for transportation associated with the use it advertises.
The vehicle remains parked on the premises after normal business
hours when customers and employees are not normally present on the
premises and not is part of the business's vehicle fleet.
The vehicle remains parked in the same vicinity on the property
in a location which maximizes its visibility from the public street
or right-of-way on a regular basis.
A sign attached directly to an exterior wall of a building
or dependent upon a building for support with the exposed face of
the sign located in such a way as to be substantially parallel to
such exterior building wall to which it is attached or supported by.
A sign, customarily displayed on the weekends, measuring
less than nine square feet in area, mounted on a wooden stake, and
identifying the location and name of an event.
A sign attached to, suspended behind, placed, or painted
upon the window or glass door of a building and intended for viewing
from the exterior of such building. This definition does not include
merchandise offered for sale on site, when on display in a window.
A sign that spins or is otherwise propelled by the force
of air moving across its face.
(Ord. 2014-01 § 1)
