Prior ordinance history: Prior code §§ 19-4.2(d),
19-5.2(d), 19-6.4(p), 19-7.4(p), 19-10.4(a)(9), 19-10.4(a)(10), 19-10.4(b)(15),
1911.11, 19-15.4(m), 19-16.1(g), 19-16.7, 19-16.11, 19-16.13 and Ords.
1150, 1157, 1174, 1185, 1186, 1272, 1281, 1319 and 1331.
This chapter is adopted pursuant to the City's police powers
as set forth in the California Constitution for the following purposes:
A.
To
maintain and improve the City's aesthetics to promote public welfare;
B.
To
protect public health and safety by improving vehicle and pedestrian
traffic safety;
C.
To
establish objective standards for regulating and controlling the design,
construction, maintenance, number, and placement of signs within the
City;
D.
To
balance freedom of expression with reasonable time, place, and manner
restrictions for protecting public health, safety, and welfare;
E.
To
establish, preserve, and promote specific areas within the City in
order to support economic development;
F.
To
avoid creation of public nuisances when temporary signs are intentionally
or unintentionally discarded; and
G.
Nothing
in this chapter is intended to, nor does it, regulate anything but
the time, place, and manner that signs may be used within the City's
jurisdiction.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
This chapter regulates signs placed on private and public property
located within the City. For signs on public property, this chapter
applies only to public property not owned or controlled by the City
and over which the City may exert its land use regulations. Signs
on public property owned or controlled by the City are subject to
separate codes, regulations, policies, and agreements that may not
be set forth in this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
The
Director may implement this chapter in accordance with applicable
law including, without limitation, this Code.
B.
The
Director may interpret this chapter. In the event that a specific
use or type of sign is not identified within this chapter, the Director
may determine whether the proposed sign is similar to a permitted
sign and whether the sign is permitted, permitted subject to conditions,
permitted as a temporary use, or prohibited. In determining "similarity,"
the Director must make all of the following findings:
C.
Any
applicant, interested person, or public official may appeal the Director's
decisions in accordance with this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Permit
Required. Unless otherwise provided in this chapter, all signs displayed
within the City must have a valid permit issued in accordance with
the procedures in this chapter.
B.
Message
Substitution. Noncommercial copy may be substituted for any commercial
copy on any sign that is allowed by this chapter, whether permitted
or exempt. Noncommercial copy of any kind may be substituted for any
other type of noncommercial copy on any sign that is allowed by this
chapter whether by permit or exemption. Message substitution may be
made without any additional City approval or permitting. This section
prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this
chapter. The purpose of this section is to prevent any inadvertent
favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring
of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial
message. This section does not create a right to increase the total
amount of signage on property, does not affect the permitting requirements
of this chapter, and does not override terms and conditions in private
contracts.
C.
Compliance
with Applicable Law. All signs must comply with all applicable law
including, without limitation, the uniform building, electrical, plumbing,
mechanical, and grading codes, at the time the sign is constructed
and mounted for display. Signs that are substantially rebuilt, remodeled,
or refurbished must conform to all codes in effect at the time such
work occurs.
D.
Variances
and Conditional Use Permits. Deviations from this chapter may be approved
via a variance or a Conditional Use Permit issued pursuant to this
Code.
E.
Sign
Classification. All signs must be classified within one of the definitions
provided by this chapter. In the absence of a specific definition,
the Director may determine which sign classification best applies
to a sign. The determination of the Director must be based upon an
evaluation of the design, location, physical characteristics, and/or
purpose of the proposed sign.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
All
elements of signs including, without limitation, supports, poles,
lights, and temporary construction materials, must be maintained in
good and safe structural condition. Permittees, persons who erected
or posted the sign, persons owning the property or building who granted
permission for the sign to be erected or displayed, and the owner
of the real property upon which the sign was erected or posted, regardless
of that owner's knowledge of the sign, are all jointly responsible
for sign maintenance. All successors in interest to these persons
are equally responsible for sign maintenance.
B.
Architectural
Context. All sign designs must be compatible with the architectural
design and details of the building the sign or signs serve, with other
signs in the building, and with the business or activity that the
sign or signs identify.
C.
Design
Elements. The following elements must be considered in sign design:
1.
Materials.
Creativity in the use of materials is encouraged. Durable materials
which are compatible in appearance to the building identified by the
sign must be used.
2.
Colors.
Sign colors must complement the building served, adjacent landscaping
and buildings, and signs of adjacent businesses.
3.
Size.
Sign size and height must be in scale with the building. Size and
height must also be appropriate to the distance from which the sign
is normally viewed.
4.
Letter
Style. Simple lettering styles must be used. Legibility must take
priority over complexity in the design of the sign face.
5.
Placement.
Monument and building-mounted signs are encouraged unless visibility,
safety concerns, or site identification considerations dictate the
use of a freestanding sign.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Unless the contrary is stated or clearly appears from the context,
the following definitions govern the construction of the words and
phrases used in this Article.
means any sign that no longer advertises a business, tenant,
owner, product, service, or activity on the site where the sign is
displayed.
means a permanently mounted sign that is designed to facilitate
the announcement of credit cards, hours of business, or other incidental
matters, and which does not announce or advertise the products, goods,
or services directly related to the business conducted on the premises.
means the numeric reference of a structure or use to a street,
included as part of a wall or monument sign.
means a sign usually hinged at the top, or attached in a
similar manner, and widening at the bottom to form a shape similar
to the letter "A." Such sign is usually designed to be portable and
is not considered a permanent sign. Also known as sandwich board,
sandwich sign, T-frame sign or a sidewalk sign.
means a sign with action or motion, flashing, blinking or
color changes requiring electrical energy, but not including wind-actuated
elements such as flags, banners, or specialty items, and public service
signs such as time and temperature units.
means the entire area within any type of perimeter or border
which encloses the outer limits of any writing, representation, emblem,
figure, or character, together with any other material or color forming
an integral part of the display or used to differentiate such sign
from the background on which it is placed. The area of a sign having
no such perimeter can be computed by enclosing the entire area within
parallelograms, triangles, or circles in a size sufficient to cover
the entire area and computing the size of such area. In the case of
a two sided sign, the area must be computed as including only the
maximum single display surface which is visible from any ground position
at one time. The supports or uprights on which any sign is supported
cannot be included in determining the sign face unless such supports
or uprights are designed in such a manner as to form an integral background
of the sign. In the case of any cylindrical sign the total area must
be computed on the total area of the surface of the sign.
means fabric, canvas or other decoration which may be either
permanently attached to the building façade or can be raised
or retracted to a position against the building when not in use.
means a sign that is applied, painted or affixed to a fabric,
canvas or decorative awning.
means a strip of cloth, thin plastic or other flexible material
attached to any structure, staff, pole, rope, wire or framing which
is anchored on two or more edges or at all four corners. Banners are
nonpermanent in nature and do not include flags.
means a static free-standing sign that identifies or communicates
a commercial or noncommercial message related to an activity conducted,
a service rendered, or a commodity sold at a location other than where
the sign is located. This includes, without limitation, building graphics,
containing off-site messages.
means a small pedestrian oriented business identification
sign attached to the underside of an awning, canopy or marquee.
means the area of the front building elevation in which the
business is located. If more than one business is located in a single
building (individual storefronts), then such area is limited to that
portion which is occupied by each individual storefront business.
means any sign that is painted, marked on, or attached to
the face of a building wall, window, awning, canopy, roof, or is any
way attached to the building structure.
means an on-site sign which identifies the name of the business
and/or primary use (e.g., "Joe's Hardware") and associated logos.
means an internally illuminated sign composed of a metal
cabinet commonly framing plastic or plexiglass panels which contain
mounted plastic or plexiglass sign copy.
means a permanent roofed structure that provides shelter
and that projects from a building wall or is supported by columns,
such as false mansards, projecting façade facings, service
station pump island shelters and other architectural features which
project from a building wall above a height of eight feet. "Canopy"
does not include an awning.
means a sign designed to allow the changing of copy through
electronic or manual means (such as letter boards and chalkboards).
Any sign whose copy can be changed by electrical means is considered
a digital display. Digital displays may be internally illuminated
and include, without limitation, LCD, LED or plasma displays.
means a message displayed on a sign which pertains primarily
to the name, location, products, or services of a for profit business
or profession.
means a temporary sign stating the names of individuals or
firms directly connected with the work on a building or facility under
construction or alteration; a temporary sign announcing the future
use of the property on which the sign is located.
means any words, letters, numbers, figures, logos, designs,
or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign.
means the use of any building, land area, or other premises
for the display and sale of new or used automobiles, panel trucks,
vans, trailers, or recreation vehicles, including any repair service
conducted as an accessory service.
means an on-site incidental sign visible from the exterior
of a building, not larger than three square feet, and designed only
to guide or direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic and which contain
no matter specifying products or services.
means a sign located in a multi-tenant complex lists each
business and its address.
means the bottom of the roof eave, cornice or parapet.
means an allowable sign not requiring a permit under this
chapter.
means any sign printed or painted on a piece of fabric, cloth,
canvas thin plastic or other similar flexible material with distinctive
colors, patterns or symbols attached to a pole or staff and anchored
along only one edge or supported or anchored at only two corners.
means a sign not attached to a building but is instead supported
from the ground by structures or supports that are permanently placed
on, or anchored in a fixed location. Freestanding signs include, without
limitation, pole signs, monument signs and pylon signs.
means a sign designed to emit or reflect artificial light,
or a sign that uses a source of light to make characters or a message
more readable. Illuminated signs include cabinet signs.
means an object made of an airtight material filled with
air or gas to form a 3-dimensional shape and used as a sign.
means a building which is used for the principal use of the
parcel upon which it is located or where a business' principal activity
occurs. More than one main building may be located on a parcel.
means a standalone sign not exceeding six feet in height
with the appearance of having a solid base. This definition does not
include minor pylon signs.
means any sign that has any visible moving parts, visible
revolving parts, or visible mechanical movement. This definition includes
signs that emit smoke, steam or vapors and signs that create an illusion
of motion.
means a message that pertains primarily to matters other
than commercial products, services or activities.
means a sign that was legally erected before a change in
applicable law and fails to conform to applicable law because of such
change. A nonconforming sign may fail to conform with current laws
because of its type, size, location, display of motion, type of lighting
or other factor addressed in applicable law.
means a sign that advertises a business, product, activity,
or service other than that which is available at, or conducted on
the premises on which the sign is located and includes the structure
used to display same.
means an image painted directly onto a building wall.
indicates that an allowable sign may be legally displayed
only with a permit issued by the City. The definition includes alternative
forms of the word such as "permissible" and "permittable."
means a permanent standalone sign exceeding six feet in height
designed with its vertical dimension greater than its horizontal dimension
and supported by either a single post, or a set of two posts. Examples
of pole signs include, without limitation, flag poles, barber poles
and light poles.
means a sign that by the nature of its construction or mounting
is easily moved. A portable sign includes, without limitation, signs
mounted on wheels, watercraft, and aircraft; and signs that are held
or mounted upon humans or animals.
means a sign that is attached to a wall and projects horizontally
from a structure by more than 12 inches and uses the building wall
as its primary source of support.
means a standalone sign exceeding six feet in height designed
with its vertical dimension greater than its horizontal dimension
and supported by a solid base. The width of the base of a major pylon
sign must be a minimum of 50% of the width of the widest portion of
the sign.
means a low-profile, ground-hugging, stand-alone sign not
exceeding six feet in height designed with its vertical dimension
greater than its horizontal dimension and supported by a solid base.
means any sign erected and constructed wholly on and over
the roof of a building, supported by the roof structure, and extending
vertically above the highest portion of the roof. Signs located on
a roof with a slope varying more than 45 degrees from the horizontal
plane is considered wall sign.
means any structure, device, or material, temporary or permanent,
fixed or portable, moving or stationary, whether located inside or
outside a building, that is visible from any property where the primary
purpose of the sign is to convey visual communication. "Sign" does
not include the following:
Interior signs that are located entirely within an enclosed
structure and not visible from the exterior;
Building features that are only decorative or architectural
and do not include lettering, trademarks, or moving parts;
Symbols of noncommercial organizations or concepts including,
without limitation, religious or political symbols when they are permanently
integrated into the structure of a building;
Items or devices of personal apparel, decoration or appearance
including, without limitation, tattoos or makeup;
Marks on tangible products that identify the maker, seller,
provider or product, and that customarily remain attached to the product
even after completion of a sale;
Traffic, directional, emergency, warning or informational signs
required or authorized by a government agency having jurisdiction;
Public utility signs;
Advertisements or banners mounted on duly licensed mass transit
vehicles including, without limitation, buses and trains, that legally
pass through the City;
Gravestones or grave markers;
Insignia located on legal vehicles and water craft including,
without limitation, license plates, registration insignia, noncommercial
messages, messages relating to the business for which the vehicle
is an instrument or tool, and messages relating to the proposed sale,
lease or exchange of vehicles or watercraft;
Foundation stones and corner stones constructed of bronze or
other incombustible material and where cut into any masonry surface
or inlaid to be part of a building; and
News racks and newsstands.
means the face or display area of a sign, including its border
only when the border carries or displays part of the message or copy.
means any sign mounted in a nonpermanent manner (such as
signs that are leaned against another structure; signs held in place
by gravity that are easily dislodged; or signs easily detached from
mounting devices), or comprised of impermanent components (such as
cardboard, paper, wallboard or cloth).
means the total glass area of the first floor of a building
or tenant bay. The glass area may include Plexiglas, plastic window
sheeting, glass block and other clear or translucent window materials
located on the front of the first floor of the building or tenant
bay.
means a sign fastened to or painted on the wall of a building
or structure with the exposed sign face in a plane parallel to the
plane of said wall.
means any sign painted or affixed to the inside or outside
of a window surface, or otherwise located within a building so as
to be visible from the exterior of the building.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
It is unlawful for signs to be constructed, erected, or displayed
as follows:
A.
Sign
Supports. Signs may not be supported with exposed bracing, angle iron,
guy wires, cables, or similar materials.
B.
Lighting.
Sign illumination cannot contribute to night-sky light pollution.
C.
Overhead
Power Lines. Signs cannot be connected to visible overhead electrical
power lines.
D.
It
is unlawful to erect signs that are detrimental to public health or
safety. Such hazardous signs include those that, because of design,
construction lighting, or location:
1.
Could
be reasonably mistaken for a traffic signal;
2.
Obstruct
free and clear observation of any legal traffic sign, signal or device;
3.
Obstruct
any door, window, or fire escape of buildings or impede pedestrian
traffic over public rights-of-ways;
4.
Are
attached to a standpipe or fire escape; or
5.
Otherwise
poses a threat of death, damage, or injury to persons or property.
E.
Signs
may not block or shadow solar energy collection devices from direct
sun exposure in a manner inconsistent with any State or City regulation.
F.
Unless
expressly allowed by this Code, signs with commercial copy are prohibited
in residential zones.
G.
Unless
expressly allowed by this Code, illuminated signs are prohibited.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Purpose.
To ensure visibility for operators of motor vehicles, bicycles, and
pedestrians on intersecting roadways.
B.
Within
a clear-sight triangle area, signs may not extend above 36 inches
in height, measured from the adjacent street, alley, or sidewalk grade.
However, pole signs with a sign face that is at least eight feet above
grade may be placed within a clear-sight triangle area.
|
Figure 080-1 Clear-Sight Triangle Area
 |
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Unless otherwise provided by this chapter or by City Council
approval, it is unlawful to display signs on public property owned
by the City. The City Council may, in its sole discretion, allow private
signs to be placed on public property by an agreement approved by
resolution or minute order.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Unless otherwise provided by this chapter, it is unlawful to
erect, allow, or maintain wind-activated signs such as spinner, pennants,
streamers, and balloons.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Unless
otherwise provided in this Code or by City Council resolution, it
is unlawful to erect, allow, or maintain signs with commercial messages
that face any residential area.
B.
This
prohibition does not apply to commercial establishments that face
streets designated as arterial in the City's General Plan.
C.
Businesses
that face a residential area, are not located on an arterial street,
and do not have other street frontage for identification may obtain
a permit for a sign facing the residential area. Permits issued for
such signs, in additional to any other condition required by this
chapter, are conditioned upon such signs not being illuminated; only
on-site directional signs located on such businesses may be illuminated.
D.
A photometrics
plan may be required by the Director to ensure all lights and glare
associated with an illuminated sign is shielded or directed so as
to prevent glare on adjacent properties or highways.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Unless otherwise provided, the following signs are exempt from
a permit or approval:
A.
Accessory
Signs. Accessory signs in commercial and industrial zones. The total
area of all such signs displayed by a single establishment cannot
exceed two square feet without a permit.
B.
Barber
Poles. Traditional barber poles bearing no copy.
C.
Construction
Project Signs. Signs displayed on the same parcel as the project being
developed or built during the time period beginning with the City's
issuing a building permit and ending with the City's issuing of a
certificate of occupancy for the last unit or portion of the building.
Construction project signs must comply with the following:
1.
One
sign in residential zones; two signs in all other zones;
2.
Signs
cannot exceed six square feet in residential zones; in all other zones,
they may not exceed 16 square feet;
3.
Signs
cannot exceed more than three feet above where the roof line of the
completed structure is located; and
4.
All
signs must be removed before a certificate of occupancy is granted
for the last unit or portion of the project.
E.
Flags
and Flagpoles. Flags or similar devices with noncommercial images
and symbols. Flags must comply with the following to be exempt:
1.
Flags
cannot exceed a maximum vertical dimension of five feet;
2.
Flags
cannot exceed a maximum horizontal dimension of eight feet;
3.
All
flags located on a lot cannot exceed a maximum cumulative area of
40 square feet;
4.
When
flags are mounted on a pole, the height of the pole cannot exceed
30 feet above grade; and
5.
Not
more than one flag pole may be placed on a lot.
F.
Historical
Site Plaques. Plaques or signs designating a building as a historical
structure.
G.
Legally
Required or Authorized Signs. Signs and notices required by or specifically
authorized by law. Such signs must conform to the requirements of
the authorizing law. When the law states a minimum size for such size,
but no maximum size is stated, then the minimum size under the law
is also the maximum size permitted by this chapter.
H.
Noncommercial
Group Signs. Signs displaying the name(s) or message(s) of noncommercial
organizations or groups may be displayed on private land. Such signs
must comply with the following to be exempt:
1.
Signs
must be freestanding;
2.
Signs
cannot exceed a maximum area of six square feet per sign face;
3.
Signs
cannot exceed a maximum number of two display faces;
4.
Signs
cannot exceed a maximum height of eight feet; and
5.
Signs
must be located near entrances to the City from an arterial road or
freeway and be oriented toward traffic as it enters the City.
I.
Noncommercial
Messages; Residential Uses. Signs must comply with the following to
be exempt:
J.
Professional
and Business Signs. Name plate signs for a professional office or
a professional office within another establishment, or shingle type
signs which announce the name and type of profession, business or
activity. Signs must comply with the following to be exempt:
1.
Signs
are displayed on the ground or second floor of a main building in
all commercial and industrial zones;
2.
Signs
cannot exceed three square feet in area;
3.
Signs
must be fasted directly to the building or hang from an awning, building
overhang or canopy, and may not extend beyond the property line; and
4.
Signs
are not be displayed in a residential zone or on a residential use.
K.
Public
Interest Notices. Notices placed on bulletin boards or kiosks maintained
by the State or other public entity for the purpose of displaying
such notices.
L.
Public
Message Signs. Signs displaying noncommercial messages for public
information, such as designation of restrooms, telephone locations,
smoking rules, and door openings. These signs cannot exceed three
square feet in area.
M.
Real
Estate Signs. Real estate signs as defined in Civil Code Section 713.
Signs must comply with the following:
1.
Signs
must be displayed on private real property;
2.
One
sign may be placed on the real property to which it pertains to residential
properties; four signs may be placed on the real property to which
they pertain to nonresidential properties;
3.
Signs
cannot exceed six square feet in residential zones or 16 square feet
for all other zones;
4.
Signs
must be removed within 15 days after the advertised property is sold,
rented or leased.
N.
Special
Events For Charitable And Other Noncommercial Groups And Establishments.
Moving and portable signs held by humans for the special events of
charitable, nonprofit, and noncommercial organizations. Signs must
comply with the following:
O.
Temporary
Freestanding Signs. Temporary freestanding signs as regulated by this
chapter.
P.
Temporary
Window Signs. Up to 25% of the total first floor frontage glass area
or 25% of the window area on the second floor of a main building may
be covered with temporary window signs made of paper, cloth, plastic,
cardboard, or similar temporary materials. Any temporary window sign
must be either attached to the interior of the window, or of weatherproof
paint affixed to the exterior of the window, or both. Sign copy must
be changed, at a minimum, every 60 days to avoid becoming permanent.
Window signs that do not change copy are permanent and allowable only
with a permit. Signs may not obscure views into the business by law
enforcement personnel. A larger portion of the total first floor frontage
glass area beyond 25% may be allowed by permit.
R.
Umbrellas.
Establishments serving food for consumption on the premises may display
commercial or noncommercial messages on outdoor table umbrellas.
S.
Warning
Signs. Signs displaying messages warning of danger are allowable if
they do not exceed three square feet in area.
T.
Vending
Machine Signs. Permanent signs painted on or attached to vending machines,
gas pumps, ice containers or similar dispensing devices. Signs must
be oriented primarily to pedestrians on the property and not toward
the street. The sign message or copy must relate to the items vended
by such machine. Vending machine signs may not display offsite commercial
messages.
U.
Temporary
Yard Signs. Except as otherwise provided, two temporary yard signs
per lot are allowed at all times. Such signs are in addition to all
other signage allowed in this chapter. Signs must comply with the
following to be exempt:
1.
Signs
cannot exceed six square feet in residential zones; in all other zones,
they may not exceed 16 square feet;
 |
2.
Signs
cannot exceed a maximum height of four feet;
3.
Location.
Signs may be placed in the front yard or side yard of any property,
provided that the signs do not encroach into any public right-of-way;
and
4.
Illuminated
signs are prohibited.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Except
for noncommercial signs, and when otherwise allowed by this chapter,
temporary signs may be displayed only upon private property for which
the legal owner gave written consent to the display. Noncommercial
temporary signs may be displayed with the legal owner's oral consent
unless denied or revoked in writing by the owner.
B.
Persons
placing temporary signs on display may not remove, damage, or block
the view of any other signs, whether competing or not, and whether
temporary or permanent which were placed on display at an earlier
time.
C.
Temporary
signs must be constructed and mounted in a manner so that they do
not rip, shred, tear or blow away when exposed to normal weather conditions.
D.
Temporary
signs may be displayed on City owned property only in accordance with
City Council resolution.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
A business
may obtain a temporary sign permit for special events. Such a permit
will allow the permittee to erect temporary signs, including inflatable
signs. A maximum of two signs are allowed per event. Permits for temporary
signage related to an event may be granted for not more than 60 days
in any one calendar year. The total area of signage may not exceed
the amount of wall signage that could be permitted for such a business.
B.
For
temporary signs displayed before obtaining a temporary sign permit,
the number of display days is calculated from the date on which the
earliest displayed sign first went on display.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Commercially
zoned properties conducting limited event lot sales, as provided by
this Code, may display not more than two temporary signs, each with
a maximum area not exceeding 12 square feet. The temporary signs allowed
under this section may be displayed not more than 15 consecutive days.
B.
Temporary
Signs. Lot and sidewalk sales establishments conducting lot and sidewalk
commercial activities, as provided by this Code, may display not more
than two temporary signs. Signs may not exceed 12 square feet.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Legislative
Findings. The City Council of the City of Bellflower does find, determine
and declare that:
1.
This
section is enacted to encourage the most appropriate land use; to
conserve and stabilize the value of property; to lessen congestion
on streets; to protect, enhance and improve the aesthetic value of
the City of Bellflower and to promote health, safety and the general
welfare while safeguarding the right to freedom of speech of its citizens.
2.
The
posting, display or affixing of signs on structures, yards, and vegetation
on residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and open-space
properties constitutes clutter, and visual and aesthetic blight. Such
blight reduces the quality of the environment, including property
and community values.
3.
The
posting, display or affixing of signs on structures, yards and vegetation
can interfere with, confuse, obstruct or mislead traffic.
B.
A temporary
election season sign is a sign displayed not more than 45 days before,
and not more than seven days following, any election in which residents
of the City of Bellflower are eligible to vote. Temporary election
season signs are allowed in commercial and residential districts subject
to the following conditions:
1.
Each
temporary election season sign in a commercial district cannot be
larger than 16 square feet.
2.
Each
temporary election season sign in a residential district cannot be
larger than six square feet.
3.
All
temporary election season signs in residential districts must be stationary,
unlighted and not employ animated or rotating devices or electrical
components, either adjacent to or as an integral part of the display.
Animated signs in commercial districts are permitted, subject to the
granting of a Conditional Use Permit. Subject to the approval of the
Planning Director, pennants, banners and similar advertising devices
may be permitted for limited periods when in compliance with City
policy approved by the City Council.
4.
All
temporary election season signs must be placed or fixed to avoid possible
obstruction, interference or injury to persons or property.
5.
No
temporary election season sign can be erected in a manner that may
foreseeably be expected to interfere with, confuse, obstruct or mislead
traffic. No sign can be placed within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, street
sign, intersection or traffic signal where such placement might constitute
a safety hazard to motorists.
C.
Temporary
Election Season Signs—Removal Requirements—Nuisance. A
temporary election season sign:
1.
Must
be removed within seven calendar days after the election to which
it relates.
2.
Is
the responsibility of the owner of the property upon which the sign
is placed to remove or adjust when not placed in accordance with the
requirements of this section.
3.
Will
constitute a public nuisance when not posted in accordance with the
provisions of this section, and upon three days' written notice, may
be removed by the Building Official and stored, and if not retrieved
within 15 days from the date of such removal, be considered as abandoned
and be disposed of by the City without any liability to any person.
D.
Temporary
Election Season Signs—Exemptions. The provisions of this section
do not apply to the following:
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
All event-based signs must be removed two business days after
the event concludes or when the permit expires, whichever is first
in time.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Temporary
sign applications must be filed with the Director, on forms provided
by the Planning Department, and contain all the following information:
1.
The
name, mailing address, and telephone numbers of the person filing
the application;
2.
Two
copies of the temporary sign plan including information about the
color, text, and square footage of the temporary sign;
3.
Two
conceptual drawings or photos showing the location of the temporary
sign; and
4.
The
dates the temporary sign is to be displayed.
B.
Temporary
Sign Criteria.
1.
A
maximum of three temporary signs are allowed for any business location
in a calendar year;
2.
Maximum
display time for a temporary sign for any business location is 120
days during a calendar year; and the maximum time period of any single
sign to be displayed is 60 days, except for A-frame and chalkboard
signs;
3.
Temporary
signs cannot be affixed to fences, trees, extended over parking and/or
landscaped areas or other similar techniques. No temporary signs can
be affixed on, within, or over any public right-of-way, unless an
Encroachment Permit with liability insurance is approved. A-frame
signs must be portable and removed from the public right-of-way during
non-business hours; and
4.
Temporary
signs must be stationary, unlighted and not employ animated or rotating
devices or electrical components, either adjacent to or as an integral
part of the display.
|
Figure 170-1 Temporary Sign Types
 |
|
Table 170-1
Temporary Sign Standards
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sign Type
|
Maximum Number of Signs
|
Maximum Size
|
Location
|
Material
|
Display Period
|
|
A-frame
|
1 per ground floor business
|
42 in. in height and 30 in. in width
|
Directly in front of the business being identified.
|
Marine quality wood, metal, or hard plastic (Masonite).
Cardboard is not allowed.
|
Max. 1-year renewable on a yearly basis, upon approval of the
Director.
Allowed only during business hours.
|
|
Banner
|
3 per ground floor business
|
Max. 42 sf.
|
Securely affixed to the façade of the building where
the business is located.
|
Durable material that will not deteriorate during the display
time period.
|
See subsection B above.
|
|
Chalkboard
|
1 per ground floor business
|
Max. 60 in. in height and 42 in. in width
|
Directly in front of the business being identified.
Must be securely attached to the exterior of the building
|
Marine quality wood, metal, or hard plastic (Masonite).
White board signs are not allowed.
|
Max. 1-year renewable on a yearly basis, upon approval of the
Director.
Allowed only during business hours.
|
|
Light Pole
|
2 per pole
|
Max. 12 sf.
|
Must be securely affixed to a light pole.
Min. clearance of 8 ft. under all light pole signs.
|
Durable material that will not deteriorate during the display
time period.
|
See subsection B above.
|
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
B.
Sign
permits are not required for minor maintenance or minor repairs to
existing legally erected signs. However, some repairs may still require
building or electrical permits.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Except
as otherwise provided by Federal, State, or local laws, or other City
Council authorized restrictions, all fees applicable to this chapter
will be established by City Council resolution.
B.
Charges
will be imposed for City services provided to a permittee. Such charges
will be determined by the applicable servicing City department(s)
and will be based on the actual cost incurred by the City in providing
such services. Such service charges will include, without limitation,
charges for labor, supervision, overhead, administration and legal
(including attorney) fees. Additional charges may be imposed to cover
the cost of extraordinary permit investigation and staff costs, if
the Director determines this necessary.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Uniform
Code Permits. If required by statewide uniform codes as adopted by
this Code, for example, the building, electrical or plumbing codes,
persons seeking to erect, attach, or install signs, must first obtain
a building permit, or other similar permit, before seeking a sign
permit or, for exempt signs, erecting, attaching, or installing such
signs.
B.
Encroachment
Permit. If a sign requires an encroachment permit under this chapter,
then the terms and conditions of the encroachment permit may be incorporated
into the sign permit.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Where multiple copies of the same sign will be simultaneously
displayed, or when a series of signs will change copy relating to
the same subject matter, one permit will be issued for the entire
set of signs by the Director.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
When an applicant seeks a sign permit for an illegal sign, the
fee for such a sign permit will be doubled to cover the City's additional
administrative expenses.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Permit applications must be filed with the Director, in form
prescribed by the Director and contain all of the following information:
A.
The
name, mailing address, and telephone numbers of the person filing
the application.
B.
The
name, mailing address, and telephone numbers of the property owner
upon which the sign will be located.
C.
The
written consent of the legal owner for the property on which the sign
will be located.
D.
Three
copies of a sign plan that includes the following information:
1.
A
drawing of appropriate scale showing the entire property upon which
the proposed sign would be displayed. The drawing must show property
lines, abutting streets, and the location and dimensions of existing
and proposed buildings and signs;
2.
An
illustration of appropriate scale showing the proposed sign including
its dimensions, area, materials, colors, and types of illumination;
3.
Structural
and electrical details; and
4.
The
address of the property upon which the sign will be displayed.
E.
With
respect to any proposed sign that constitutes an "advertising display"
as defined by California Business and Professions Code Section 5202,
and is intended to be placed or maintained within 660 feet from the
edge of the right-of-way of any interstate or primary highway and
the copy of which is visible from such interstate or primary highway,
the applicant must submit reasonable evidence demonstrating compliance
with or exemption from the regulations of the Outdoor Advertising
Act (California Business and Professions Code Sections 5200 et seq.).
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
In addition to the information required this chapter, applications
for all permits authorizing a sign will include such supplemental
information which the Director may find reasonably necessary, given
the type of sign, in order to determine whether to approve or deny
a permit authorizing such sign in the manner hereinafter provided
by this chapter. Such additional information may not include the sign
copy or content, but must only be related to non-communicative aspects
of the proposed sign.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
The Director must determine whether an application is complete
within 30 days after the application was first submitted. If deemed
incomplete, the Director must provide written notice of incompleteness
to the applicant and identify what is required to make the application
completion. An applicant must make corrections to the applicant within
30 days after receiving notice to avoid paying a new application fee.
If the Director fails to provide a notice of incompleteness within
30 days, then the application is deemed complete on the date of application.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
B.
Use
of any permit issued pursuant to this chapter must conform to the
general permit conditions of this chapter and, if applicable, special
permit conditions reasonably deemed necessary by the Director to protect
public, safety or welfare.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A permit may be denied for the following reasons:
A.
The
application is incomplete;
B.
The
applicant failed to provide reasonable supplemental application information
requested by the Director;
C.
The
proposed sign does not comply with this Code including, without limitation,
provisions of the uniform codes adopted by reference;
D.
The
applicant failed to obtain such additional permits as may be required
by this Code;
E.
Information
submitted by the applicant is materially false;
F.
The
applicant installed a sign in violation of this chapter and, at the
time the permit application is submitted, such illegal sign was not
rendered legal, removed, or listed in the application;
G.
There
is any other existing code violation located on the site of the proposed
sign(s) (other than an illegal sign that is not owned or controlled
by the applicant and is located at a different business location on
the site from that for which the approval is sought) at the time of
the application;
I.
The
applicant has not obtained any applicable use permit.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
If the Director denies a permit for a sign that would be acceptable
by changing the sign's place or manner, then the Director will inform
the applicant of such alternatives. Should the applicant accept the
alternative place or manner then the Director will issue a permit
in accordance with this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
The Director's determination whether to issue a permit and,
if issued, what conditions are placed in a permit, must be guided
solely by the standards and criteria set forth in this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
In addition to all other conditions, permittees must enter into
a hold harmless agreement with the City which will, in part, indemnify
City, its officers, employees, and agents, from any liability arising
from permittee's sign in a form approved by the City Attorney's office.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Except as otherwise provided, signs authorized by a permit issued
pursuant to this chapter must be erected within one year of the issuance
of the permit, otherwise such approval is null and void.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Grounds
for Special Permit Subsequent Conditions. The Director may condition
previously issued permits upon learning or discovering facts not previously
disclosed or reasonably discoverable.
B.
Notice
of Special Permit Subsequent Conditions. Should subsequent conditions
be required, the Director will serve written notice on the permittee
of this decision.
C.
Except
where otherwise provided, a permittee may seek review of imposition
of subsequent conditions to the Director as provided in this chapter.
The Director's decision is a final determination. There will be no
right of City Council appeal.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
The
Director will revoke a sign permit upon learning or discovering facts
requiring permit denial not previously disclosed or reasonably discoverable.
B.
The
Director may revoke a sign permit when the permittee or sign violates
the permit's terms and conditions; provided, however, that the Director
will not revoke a permit without warning the permittee and allowing
him/her to correct the violation(s) within a reasonable time.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Except as otherwise provided, an applicant may request administrative
review of the Director's decision pursuant to this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Except
as otherwise provided, a request for review must be commenced within
five days from the date on which written notice of the Director's
decision is served on the applicant/permittee.
B.
If
request is untimely, the Director may, nevertheless, extend the time
for commencing such review for good cause shown.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A request for administrative review will be on a form provided
by the Director and contain the following information:
A.
The
name, address and telephone number of the person making the request;
B.
A description
of the decision, determination or order which is the subject of the
review, and the date such decision, determination or order was made
or issued;
C.
A brief
description of all grounds for making the request; and
D.
Such
other information as may be required by the Director.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Upon
request for administrative review being filed, the Director will provide
a copy of the notice to the City Manager within two business days.
B.
Upon
receiving a request for review from the Director, the City Manager
will review the request and, within 10 days of receiving the request
notice, provide the appellant with a written notification that:
C.
The
City Manager may, but is not required to, conduct a hearing at a time
and place determined at the City Manager's sole discretion.
D.
In
addition to other provisions of this chapter, any notification to
the requestor must set forth any modifications of the Director's decision.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.8(c),
and any successor statute or regulation, the permits under this chapter
are designated for expedited judicial review pursuant to the procedure
set forth in California Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.8, or
any successor statute or regulation.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
A comprehensive
Master Sign Plan is required whenever:
1.
The
development is within the Town Center (TC) District, Design for Development
for the South Bellflower Commercial Area (DFD), or any Specific Plan.
2.
Three
or more separate commercial tenant spaces are created on the same
parcel.
3.
Roof
signs in the Town Center (TC) District per the standards in Table
480-3 (Roof and Painted Mural Signs), may be permitted by the Director,
subject to the following:
4.
Freestanding
signs in the Town Center (TC) District, that exceed the maximum allowable
standards in Table 480-4 (Freestanding Signs), may be permitted by
the Director, subject to the following:
5.
Roof
or Freestanding signs in the Town Center (TC) District, C-G (General
Commercial), M-1 (Light Industrial District), and Design for Development
for the South Bellflower Commercial Area (DFD) that exceed the maximum
allowable standards in Subsections (A)(3)—(A)(5) are subject
to Planning Commission approval.
6.
Signs
for nonresidential uses in residential zones.
7.
An
existing multi-tenant shopping center proposes of five or less tenant
spaces a façade remodel that requires removal of three or more
existing signs. An existing multi-tenant shopping center of six or
more tenant spaces proposes a façade remodel that requires
removal of 25% or more of the existing signs.
8.
Four
or more permanent non-exempt signs are proposed for a single use.
9.
The
Director determines that a Master Sign Plan is needed because of special
project characteristics or when unique, creatively designed signs
are being proposed and certain aspects of the sign's design might
not otherwise be allowed.
B.
A Master
Sign Plan does not exempt signs in the project from building permits.
C.
All
signs subsequently erected on a property for which a Master Sign Plan
was approved must conform to that Master Sign Plan.
D.
Revisions
to a Master Sign Plan requires Director approval.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Applications for a Master Sign Plan must be filed with the Director,
in form prescribed by the Director and include at least all of the
following information:
A.
The
name, mailing address, and telephone numbers of the person filing
the application;
B.
The
name, mailing address, and telephone numbers of the property owner
upon which the sign will be located;
C.
The
written consent of the legal owner for the property on which the sign
will be located;
D.
Three
copies of the Master Sign Plan that includes the following information:
1.
A
drawing of appropriate scale showing the entire property upon which
the proposed signs would be displayed. The drawing must show property
lines, abutting streets, and the location and dimensions of existing
and proposed buildings and signs;
2.
An
illustration of appropriate scale showing the proposed signs (but
need not show actual sign copy) including the number, location, dimensions,
area, materials, colors, designs and types of illumination; size,
location, number, and design of all proposed signs (but need not show
actual sign copy) the proposed signs including the number, location,
dimensions, area, materials, colors, design and types of illumination;
3.
Structural
and electrical details; and
4.
The
address of the property upon which the sign will be displayed.
E.
Filing
fees, as established by City Council resolution.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
To approve a Master Sign Plan, the Director must make all of
the following findings:
A.
The
Master Sign Plan complies with the purpose of this chapter, including
the sign design guidelines;
B.
Proposed
signs enhance the overall development and are in harmony with other
signs included in the plan with the structures they identify and with
surrounding development;
C.
The
Master Sign Plan contains provisions to accommodate future revisions
that may be required because of changes in use or tenants; and
D.
The
Master Sign Plan complies with the standards of this chapter, except
that flexibility is allowed with regard to sign face, quantity, size,
location, type, and/or height to the extent that the Master Sign Plan
will enhance the overall development, achieve superior quality design,
and will more fully accomplish the purposes of this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
If deemed appropriate and on a case-by-case basis, the Director has the ability to refer review and approval of a Master Sign Plan to the Planning Commission, without the necessity of any public hearing and subject to the findings in Section 17.68.410 (Master Sign Plan Findings).
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Any applicant, interested person, or public official may appeal
the Director's decisions regarding a Master Sign Plan to the Planning
Commission.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Where the sign face is required to be measured for the purposes of this chapter, it must be measured in accordance with Figures 470-1, 470-2, or 470-3 in Section 17.68.470. The allowed sign face cannot be transferred from one building side or wall to another. If the supporting device is in itself a part of the sign, it must be included in the calculation of the area of the sign. The size of the allowable sign face is determined by the width of the building façade for each tenant space.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
For
signs having a distinct border or boundary, the sign face is calculated
by multiplying the length times the width or the entire surface contained
within the border, boundary or sign board.
B.
For
signs without a distinct border or boundary, such as individual channel
letter signs, the sign face is calculated by multiplying the length
times the width of the sign face for each set of words, representation,
emblem, logo or other display of the sign.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
For signs with two identical faces, arranged back to back in
parallel planes, the sign face is calculated for one side only.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
For signs with more than one face, where such sign does not
meet the standard of a double-face sign described in this section,
the area must be calculated by adding together the total area of all
sign faces visible from any one point.
|
Figure 470-1
 |
|
Figure 470-2
 |
|
Figure 470-3
 |
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Primary
and Secondary Building Sign Types and Standards:
|
Figure 480-1
 |
|
Figure 480-2
 |
|
Table 480-1
Primary Building Signs
| ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sign Type
|
Number of Signs
|
Maximum Area per Sign
|
Maximum Height/ Projection
|
Location/ Spacing
|
Design
|
Other Requirements
|
|
Wall
|
1 per wall, or 1 per storefront for buildings with multiple
tenants.
Max. 2 signs per business.
|
1 sf. per linear foot of building wall.
|
Min. projection of 3 in.
Max. projection of 12 in.
Any portion thereof above the building's roof peak, parapet,
or façade may not exceed 30% of the height of the sign.
|
First floor signs cannot extend above the bottom of the sills
of the second-floor windows.
Second floor signs cannot extend above the eave-line, cornice,
or parapet.
No wall sign can be located upon an architectural protrusion.
|
Illumination allowed includes: exposed neon, backlit halo created
by solid built-up individual cut letters, external incandescent, halogen,
fluorescent or LED with decorative metal directional shades.
All copy must be of a 3dimensional design.
|
Buildings with direct storefront access to public plazas are
permitted a max. of 3 signs per business. The third sign must face
the public plaza.
|
|
Projecting (Hanging)
|
1 doubleface sign per building or storefront per street frontage.
Only 1 sign can be located on each. building corner.
|
22 sf.
|
May extend by (1/3) of its height over the eave-line, cornice
or parapet.
Min. 8 ft. clearance above right of way, including stairs, ramps,
or other access points.
Max. height of 45 ft.
|
Can only be attached to the first-floor.
Signs must project between 12 in.6 ft. from building.
Must be a min. 2 ft. from curb line, and 5ft. from interior
property line.
Min. spacing of 20 ft. from any other projecting sign.
On a corner lot, the projecting sign must be mounted at a 45°
horizontal angle.
|
Illumination allowed includes: exposed neon, backlit halo created
by solid built-up individual cut letters, external incandescent, halogen,
fluorescent or LED with decorative metal directional shades.
|
Any angle iron or secondary support, other than guy wires, must
be enclosed in a form constructed of impermeable material so as not
to be visible.
|
|
Table 480-2
Secondary Building Signs
| ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sign Type
|
Number of Signs
|
Maximum Area per Sign
|
Maximum Height/ Projection
|
Location/ Spacing
|
Design
|
Other Requirements
|
|
Blade
|
1 double-face sign per building or storefront per street frontage.
|
2 sf. per face.
|
8 ft. clearance from the right of way
Hung at a max. height of 10 ft.
|
Must be located beneath first floor awnings, marquees, or canopies.
|
Cannot be illuminated.
|
Blade signs may be used conjunction with pedestrianoriented
projecting signs.
|
|
Pedestrian Oriented Projecting (Hanging)
|
1 sign per building or storefront.
|
4 sf.
|
Must be mounted at least 8 ft. above the rightof-way.
|
Must be mounted on the first-floor building face.
|
Cannot be illuminated.
|
Cannot be used in conjunction with a major projecting sign or
blade signs.
Cannot be used where it may pose a risk to pedestrians or bicyclists.
Cannot be used where it may pose a risk to pedestrians or bicyclists.
|
|
Window
|
1 sign per window.
|
25% of the window
|
Window lettering permitted on interior or exterior of glass
window or door.
|
Signs composed of individual letters, painted to interior or
exterior of glass, gilded letters, screened glass, or diecut vinyl
letters applied to glass, are encouraged.
Illumination is allowed for small neon signs.
Illumination is allowed for small neon signs.
The use of bright fluorescent colors is not allowed.
|
Neon signs cannot exceed 4 sf. in area per tenant space.
| |
|
Canopy
|
1 per canopy side face.
|
10% of canopy face; max. of 75 sf. for wall and freestanding
signs combined.
|
Max. height of 45 ft.
Max. projection of 12 in.
|
Must be attached to the face of the canopy.
Cannot project above or below the roof of the canopy.
|
Illumination allowed includes: exposed neon, backlit halo created
by solid built-up individual cut letters, external incandescent, halogen,
fluorescent or LED with decorative metal directional shades.
All copy must be of a 3-dimensional design. Changeable copy
signs are not allowed.
| |
|
Awning
|
1 sign per awning.
Max. 2 signs per business.
|
40% of the total face of the awning or 10 sf.
|
Cannot project closer than 2 ft. to the curb line.
|
Must be located on the vertical drop of the awning valance if
possible. Valance drops cannot exceed 1 foot in vertical height, with
sign copy not to exceed 6 in. height.
|
Must be contained entirely within the perimeter of the fascia.
The face of the awning cannot slope more than 60° from the
vertical plane.
Cannot be illuminated.
Awnings without valances are allowed.
|
In addition to an awning sign, a sign which displays the business
name only may be mounted on the under surface of the awning, in accordance
with the standards outlined under PedestrianOriented Projecting signs
in Table 480-2.
|
|
Figure 480-3
 |
|
Table 480-3
Roof and Painted Mural Signs
| ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sign Type
|
Number of Signs
|
Maximum Area per Sign
|
Maximum Height/ Projection
|
Location/ Spacing
|
Design
|
Other Requirements
|
|
Roof
|
1 per building.
|
1 sf. Per linear foot of building wall, not to exceed 40 sf.
|
15 ft. above the roof line.
|
See definition in Section 060 within this Code.
|
Can be illuminated
| |
|
Painted Mural
|
1 per storefront for buildings with multiple tenants.
Mural may be painted across a max. of 2 walls.
|
100% of wall area, not to exceed 150 sf. Per building face.
|
Painted murals cannot extend above the eave-line, cornice, or
parapet of the building.
|
Painted murals must be located on a wall facing a side street
(for example, streets lying perpendicular to Bellflower Blvd.) or
parking lot. One painted mural per building face is permitted.
|
Extremely loud, bold, and garish patterns and prints (e.g.,
zebra stripes) or bright fluorescent colors are not allowed. Murals
must be long-lasting in nature.
Painted murals may be externally lit with LED, incandescent,
halogen, or fluorescent lights.
|
Must either use a protective topcoat of paint and/or develop
a maintenance plan prior to approval.
|
B.
Freestanding
Sign Types and Standards:
|
Figure 480-4
 |
|
Table 480-4
Freestanding Signs
| ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sign Type
|
Number of Signs
|
Maximum Area per Sign
|
Maximum Height/ Projection
|
Location/ Spacing
|
Design
|
Other Requirements
|
|
Major Pylon
|
1 sign per separate street frontage of 150 ft. or greater per
parcel.
|
50 sf.
|
Max. height of 25 ft.
|
Not less than 5 ft. from an interior property line and each
ingress/egress driveway. Not less than 100 ft. from any other freestanding
sign on the same side of the street. Not less than 80 ft. from any
residential use.
|
All copy must be of a 3dimensional design.
Exposed poles are not allowed.
The width of the base must be a min. of 50% of the width of
the widest portion of the sign.
Can be illuminated.
Changeable copy signs are allowed.
Digital displays require a Conditional Use Permit.
|
Max. 1 freestanding sign per separate street frontage.
|
|
Minor Pylon
|
1 sign per separate street frontage.
|
36 sf.
|
Max. height of 6 ft.
|
Not less than 5 ft. from an interior property line and each
ingress/egress driveway. Not less than 50 ft. from any other freestanding
sign on the same side of the street.
|
All copy must be of a 3dimensional design.
The sign face background must be of a nontranslucent and opaque
material.
Can be illuminated.
Changeable copy signs are allowed. Digital displays require
a Conditional Use Permit.
|
Max. 1 freestanding sign per separate street frontage.
|
|
Pole
|
1 sign per separate street frontage of 150 ft. or greater per
parcel.
|
100 sf.
|
Max. height of 25 ft.
|
Not less than 5 ft. from an interior property line and each
ingress/egress driveway. Not less than 50 ft. from any other freestanding
sign on the same side of the street.
|
Exposed pole is prohibited.
Can be illuminated.
Changeable copy signs are allowed. Digital displays require
a Conditional Use Permit.
|
Max. 1 freestanding sign per separate street frontage.
|
|
Monument
|
1 sign per separate street frontage.
|
36 sf.
|
Max. height of 6 ft.
|
Not less than 5 ft. from an interior property line and each
ingress/egress driveway.
|
Must be constructed of materials such as stone, concrete, metal,
and/or brick. Acrylic must be used only as an accent.
Can be illuminated.
Changeable copy signs are allowed. Digital displays require
a Conditional Use Permit.
|
Max. 1 freestanding sign per separate street frontage.
|
|
Canopy
|
1 per canopy side face.
|
10% of canopy face; max. of 75 sf. for wall and freestanding
signs combined.
|
Max. height of 45 ft.
Max. projection of 12 in.
|
Must be attached to the face of the canopy.
Cannot project above or below the roof of the canopy.
|
Illumination allowed includes: exposed neon, backlit halo created
by solid built-up individual cut letters, external incandescent, halogen,
fluorescent or LED with decorative metal directional shades.
All copy must be of a 3dimensional design.
Changeable copy signs and digital displays are not allowed.
| |
|
Billboard
|
1 per property.
|
300 sf.
|
Max. height of 45 ft.
Min. ground clearance of 8 ft.
|
May not project into the public right-of-way.
Not less than 300 ft. from a public school, City Hall, library
or public park.
Not less than 300 ft. from any other billboard on any lot fronting
or siding the same side of the same street.
No other sign may be attached.
|
Must be supported by a max. of 2 members constructed of steel
or other metals.
Must be freestanding on the ground only and not attached to
a building.
Exposed backs and sides visible to the public or adjacent properties
must be covered to conceal the structure and be properly maintained
provided that it is designed in the simplest form and free of any
visible bracing, angle iron, guy wires, cables, etc.
Can be illuminated.
|
Subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit.
|
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
General.
Signage must be an integral part of a building's design. Signage must
be given design consideration and treatment equal to the overall project
design and must reflect the architectural treatment of the building.
B.
Location.
 |
1.
Signs
cannot project above the edge of rooflines and cannot obstruct windows
and/or doorways. See Figure 490-1.
2.
Signs
must be designed to relate to the architectural features of the building
on which they are located and create visual continuity with other
signs on the same or adjacent buildings. See Figure 490-1.
3.
Signs
cannot be located so that they cover or interrupt the architectural
details or ornamentation of a building's façade.
4.
Signs
must be designed to relate to the scale and architectural features
of the building on which they are located.
5.
Signs
must be placed at or near the public entrance to a building or main
parking area to indicate the most direct access to the business.
C.
Legibility.
 |
1.
Lettering
styles must complement the building architecture or streetscape. However,
avoid hardto-read intricate typefaces. See Figure 490-2.
2.
Avoid
spacing letters and words too close together.
3.
Lettering
cannot occupy more than 75% of the sign face.
4.
Limit
the number of lettering styles in order to increase legibility.
D.
Color.
1.
Colors
must relate to and complement the materials or paint scheme of the
building, including accent highlighting and trim colors.
2.
Too
many colors overwhelm the basic function of communication. Limited
use of accent colors can increase legibility, while large areas of
competing colors tend to confuse.
 |
3.
Contrast
is an important influence on the legibility of signs. Light colored
letters and images place on a dark contrasting color background are
the most legible. See Figure 490-3.
4.
Excessively
bright and fluorescent colors must be avoided.
E.
Materials.
1.
Sign
materials must be selected with consideration to the architectural
design of the building façade. Sign materials must complement
the materials on the façade.
2.
Signage
must consist of individual channel letters and logos are allowed,
with dark returns.
3.
Signs
must be attached directly to the building. Sign materials must be
made of durable materials. When wood is used, it must be properly
sealed to prevent moisture from soaking into the wood and causing
the sign to deteriorate.
F.
Illumination.
1.
Individual
internally illuminated and individual solid back-lighted (reverse
channel) letter sign types are preferred. See Figure 490-4.
 |
2.
Electrical
transformer boxes, conduit, connectors, fasteners and raceways cannot
be visible.
3.
All
exposed conduit and junction boxes must be appropriately concealed
from public view.
4.
Where
illuminated signs are permitted, the illumination must be fixed, steady,
and directed or controlled so as to prevent glare on streets, walkways,
and residential property. Signs cannot include bare light bulbs over
15 watts that are visible from the front of the sign or beyond the
property line. Neon or argon lamps are permissible.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Each of the various sign types present particular issues that
need to be considered. The guidelines in this section address issues
of design, placement and compatibility for the following sign types,
wall signs, projecting signs, under canopy signs, awning signs, window
signs, monument signs, and directional signs.
A.
Wall
Signs.
1.
Wall
signs must be located on a horizontal band parallel to a business
storefront, and centered vertically in relation to the surrounding
businesses, or where the architectural features or details of the
building suggest a location, size or shape for the sign. For example,
the best location for a wall sign is generally on a band or blank
area between the first and second floors of a building.
2.
When
a building contains two or more businesses, wall signs must be placed
in a consistent location above the business' store frontage. Signs
must be centered and placed in a horizontal band consistent with surrounding
businesses. Wall signs must complement each other in color and shape.
3.
When
signs that are attached to a wall are removed, the wall surface must
be immediately repaired and painted to match the adjacent wall surface.
 |
B.
Projecting
Signs.
1.
The
use of small, pedestrian-oriented projecting signs is strongly encouraged.
2.
Projecting
signs must be used for ground floor uses only. On a multi-storied
building, signs must be attached between the bottom of the second
story window sills and the top of the doors or windows of the first
story.
3.
The
sign must be hung at a 90 degree angle from the face of the building.
4.
Sign
supports and brackets must be compatible with the design and scale
of the sign and the architectural design of the building.
 |
D.
Awning
Signs.
1.
The
text of the sign must be located only on the valance (vertical) portion
of the awning and must be printed directly on the canopy.
2.
No
text, images or logos can be placed on the sides of an awning or on
the sloped awning face.
3.
Text,
image and logo colors must be compatible with the awning and the building
color scheme.
 |
4.
Backlit,
internally illuminated awnings are not allowed.
F.
Major
Pylon Signs.
1.
Major
pylon signs should have clear, legible type and be easily read by
both pedestrians and vehicular traffic.
2.
Major
pylon signs must have a base minimum of 50% the width of the sign.
The base and sign should incorporate the architectural style or material
of the building to which it relates.
|
Figure 500-6: Major Pylon Sign
 |
3.
Illuminated
signs should be downlit to decrease the impacts on motorists and light
pollution.
G.
Minor
Pylon Signs.
1.
Minor
pylon signs should have clear, legible type and easily read by both
pedestrians and vehicular traffic.
|
Figure 500-7: Minor Pylon Sign
 |
2.
Minor
pylon signs should use lasting high-quality materials that require
limited maintenance. Face signs should be opaque. The base and sign
should incorporate the architectural style or material of the building
to which it relates.
3.
Illuminated
signs should be downlit to decrease the impacts on motorists and light
pollution.
H.
Monument
Signs.
1.
Monument
signs must be placed within landscaped areas perpendicular to approaching
traffic and positioned to provide clear lines of sight at intersections
and driveway approaches. See Figure 500-8.
 |
2.
Monument
signs may be internally illuminated. However, the sign copy can be
the only portion of the sign face that is illuminated. The sign background
or field must be opaque with a non-glass, non-reflective finish. Signs
with individual back-lit letters are encouraged.
3.
The
design of monument signs must be in harmony with the site and surrounding
buildings. Signs cannot be a dominant feature of the site.
4.
Sign
materials, including the sign base, must be consistent with, or complimentary
to, the overall development materials and design.
J.
Directional
Signs.
1.
Directional
signs are used to direct users to various key locations and assist
with way finding.
2.
Directional
signs can only be located within integrated developments and must
be designed in harmony with the site.
3.
Directional
signs and their supports must use the same color palette of the proposed
building.
4.
Directional
signs cannot obstruct sight lines along major circulation routes and
must be well illuminated for visual clarity and safety.
5.
Directional
signs must incorporate copy on both sides of sign.
|
Figure 500-10: Directional Sign
 |
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Signs are subject to the tables below entitled Permitted, Conditionally Permitted, and Not Permitted Uses. Where indicated with the letter "P," the sign is permitted. Where indicated with the letter "C," the sign is a conditional use subject to the Conditional Use Permit process (Chapter 17.96). Where indicated with the letters "NP," the sign is not permitted.
|
Table 510-1
Temporary Signs
| ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Zoning
|
A-Frame
|
Banner
|
Chalkboard
|
Light Pole
|
|
A-E/SF/R-1
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
R-2/R-3
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
S-C-H
|
NP
|
P
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
DFD/C-G
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
|
M-1
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
|
TC
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
|
Specific Plans (Commercial Uses and Mixed-Uses)
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
|
O-S
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
|
Table 510-2 Building Signs
Primary, Secondary, Roof and Painted Murals
| ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Zoning
|
Wall
|
Projecting/Hanging
|
Awning
|
Blade
|
Pedestrian-Oriented Projecting
|
Window
|
Roof Signs
|
Painted Murals
|
|
A-E/SF/
R-1
|
P*
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
R-2/R-3/
S-C-H
|
P**
|
NP
|
P**
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
DFD/
C-G
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
|
M-1
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
|
TC
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P***
|
P
|
|
O-S
|
P
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
NP
|
P
|
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
P
|
|
Notes:
| |
|---|---|
|
P*
|
See standards in Section 17.68.520(B) within this Code
|
|
P**
|
See standards in Section 17.68.530(B)(1)(2) within this Code
|
|
P***
|
Approval of Master Sign Plan is required
|
|
Table 510-3
Freestanding Signs
| |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Zoning
|
Pylon (Major or Minor)
|
Pole
|
Monument
|
Off-Premises
|
Billboard
|
|
A-E/SF/R-1
|
P****
|
P****
|
P****
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
R-2/R-3
|
P****
|
P****
|
P****
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
S-C-H
|
NP
|
NP
|
P
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
C-G
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
CUP
|
CUP
|
|
M-1
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
CUP
|
CUP
|
|
TC
|
P
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
NP
|
|
O-S
|
NP
|
NP
|
P
|
CUP
|
CUP
|
|
P
|
P
|
NP
|
P
|
CUP
|
CUP
|
|
Notes:
| |
|---|---|
|
P****
|
See Master Sign Plan Section 17.68.390(A)(6).
|
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Signs
in the SF (Single Family), A-E (Agricultural Estate), and R-1 (Low
Density Residential) Zones are for the primary purpose of identifying
major residential landmarks such as primary neighborhood entrances,
address signs, and other necessary information. Signs must be well
integrated with the neighborhood's architecture and landscaping. Illumination
must be designed to ensure adequate sign visibility and safety, but
never create light trespass into residential units or onto adjacent
properties.
B.
Wall
Signs. For properties with two or more units, one identification sign
containing only the building identification name is permitted. Wall
signs must be understated and minimal in nature and cannot exceed
18 square feet. The sign cannot extend above the eave-line nor project
more than eight inches from the face of the building. Sign text cannot
exceed eight inches. Cabinets signs are prohibited.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Signs
in the R-2 (Medium Density Residential), R-3 (Multiple Residential)
Zones, and S-C-H (Senior Citizen Housing) District are for the primary
purpose of identifying major residential landmarks such as primary
neighborhood entrances, address signs, and other necessary information.
Signs must be well integrated with the neighborhood's architecture
and landscaping. Illumination must be designed to ensure adequate
sign visibility and safety, but never create light trespass into residential
units or onto adjacent properties.
B.
Buildings
may install either a wall sign, an awning sign, or a monument sign
and a directory sign provided that all of the following development
standards set forth are met:
1.
Wall
Signs. For properties with two or more units, one identification sign
containing only the building identification name is permitted. Wall
signs must be understated and minimal in nature and cannot exceed
18 square feet. The sign cannot extend above the eave-line nor project
more than eight inches from the face of the building. Sign text cannot
exceed eight inches. Cabinets signs are prohibited.
2.
Awning
Signs. Signs cannot exceed 18 square feet.
3.
Monument
Signs. One monument sign containing only the identification name is
permitted per development. Multiple entrances or additional signs
may be approved by the Director. The maximum height is 42 inches and
the maximum area is 18 square feet. The sign must be set back a minimum
of five feet from the front property line.
4.
Directory
Signs. One directory sign is permitted for developments with 10 or
more units. Additional signs may be approved by the Director for larger
developments. The maximum height is six feet and six inches and the
maximum area is 26 square feet. The maximum base area is 14 square
feet. The sign must be set back a minimum of five feet from the front
property line and maintain adequate line-of-sight visibility as determined
by the City Engineer. The sign must include a site plan of the property
showing all buildings, pedestrian, vehicle and emergency vehicle access,
north arrow, and parking areas. The site plan must be reviewed and
approved by the Director. See Figure 530-1.
|
Figure 530-1
Directory Monument Sign
 |
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Signs
Prohibited. No advertising displays can be erected, constructed or
maintained on property adjacent to a section of freeway which has
been, or hereafter must be, landscaped as defined herein, if the advertising
display is designed to be viewed primarily by persons traveling on
such landscaped section of a freeway.
B.
Exempt
Advertising Displays. The provisions of this section do not apply
to any of the following listed advertising structures or signs when
used exclusively:
1.
As
a real estate sign authorized by Civil Code Section 713 and otherwise
consistent with this Code;
2.
As
a business identification sign or to otherwise identify the premises
on which it is placed; or
3.
As
an on-premises sign.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
In addition to other permitted signs, menu boards are permitted
for drive-through fast-food restaurants provided the following development
standards are met:
|
Table 550-1
Drive-through Restaurants
| ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Sign Type
|
Number of Signs
|
Maximum Area per Sign
|
Maximum Height/ Projection
|
Location/ Spacing
|
Design
|
Other Requirements
|
|
Menu Board
|
2 menu boards.
|
40 sf.
|
Max. 7 ft. in height.
|
Must be oriented to on-site customers and not the right-of-way.
Cannot be located within the required corner cutoff areas at
driveway or drive-through entrances/exits.
|
Copy must contain only the business name, and information related
to the food items and prices.
Max. letter size is 3 in.
Changeable copy signs are allowed.
Can be illuminated.
|
Refer to Section 5.40.070 for additional sign requirements.
|
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
The following signage are permitted for automobile service station
stations:
A.
Sign
Face. Each service station use is permitted a total allowable sign
face of 300 square feet.
B.
Freestanding
Signs. Gas stations may have two freestanding signs (either monument
or pylon) for each service station lot. One of those signs cannot
exceed six feet in height above grade level and cannot exceed 36 square
feet in area. The second sign must have a maximum area of 15 square
feet, and a maximum height of 12 feet. Digital displays used solely
to display prices for gasoline sales are permitted subject to all
other applicable requirements of this chapter.
C.
Copy.
Letter height for all copy is a minimum of six inches. Changeable
type must be a maximum of 18 inches.
D.
Wall
Signs and Canopy Signs. There cannot be more than one wall sign for
each building frontage facing a street. Service stations are permitted
one canopy sign per side. Service stations may have a mix of wall
and/or canopy signs, but cannot have more than a combined three total
wall or canopy signs. Wall signs and/or canopy signs cannot take up
more than 10% of building/ canopy face, not to exceed 75 square feet.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
In addition to signage otherwise allowed, dealerships may display
banners pursuant to the following standards:
A.
Light
Poles. Each light pole within the dealership may display banners below
the light fixtures having an area not greater than 14 square feet
per side. If banners are mounted on more than two arms, the total
area of all sides of the banners cannot exceed 28 square feet per
light pole. A flag up to nine square feet may also be displayed atop
each light pole. Flags cannot project more than six feet above the
top of the light poles.
B.
All
banners must be kept clean and in a state of good repair at all times.
Commercial properties can exceed the total number of allowed
wall signs per building face, and have a maximum of seven signs along
a single wall and not more than nine signs for the building, only
if the following requirements are met:
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
Theatres are allowed marquee signs in-lieu of wall signs. The
marquee sign may consist of changeable copy or a digital display via
a Conditional Use Permit.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Wall
Signs and Projecting Signs for a Single Establishment. Signs for one
establishment may not be transferred from one establishment to another
even if both are located on the same property or share contiguous
street frontages or adjacent areas within a building. Any single establishment
may increase the otherwise allowable sign face of any one permanent
sign by up to 10% by transferring the same amount of display area
from another sign which the establishment is allowed to display. This
does not, however, allow the sign face on any one wall to exceed the
per wall area limits set forth in this chapter.
B.
Freestanding
Signs. By private agreement between establishments, continuous street
frontages may be combined to qualify for a freestanding sign, the
display face of which may be shared by establishments contributing
to the qualifying frontage.
C.
Unusual
Signs. Unless specifically prohibited, signs that are single, double,
multi-faced, curved cylindrical, spherical, triangular or oddly shaped,
may be permitted, provided they satisfy all other provisions of this
Code.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Abatement
Requirements. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter,
all signs legally and lawfully existing before the effective date
of this chapter that do not comply with its provisions are nonconforming.
All nonconforming signs must be removed or modified to comply with
the provisions of this chapter in accordance with the procedures established
herein.
C.
Restrictions
on Existing Signs. Any nonconforming sign may be continued in operation
and maintained after the effective date of this chapter. However,
nonconforming signs must not be:
1.
Replaced
with another nonconforming sign;
2.
Moved
to another location on the property or to another property;
3.
Structurally
altered as to extend the useful life of the sign;
4.
Expanded
or enlarged; or
5.
Re-established
after damage or destruction of more than 50% of the sign value, as
determined by the Director at the time of such damage or destruction,
unless required by law or unless such move, alteration, enlargement,
or re-establishment will result in the elimination of the nonconformity.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
All nonconforming signs must be discontinued, removed from their
sites, or altered to conform to the requirements of this chapter within
the time schedules specified in Table 620-1.
|
Table 620-1
Nonconforming Sign Abatement Schedule
| |
|---|---|
|
Type of Nonconforming Sign
|
Abatement Schedule
|
|
1. Animated, illuminated, or moving signs
|
Within 5 years of the date that the sign becomes nonconforming
|
|
2. Wall signs
|
Within 5 years of the date that the sign becomes nonconforming
|
|
3. All other nonconforming signs
|
Within 10 years of the date that the sign becomes nonconforming.
|
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
If, at the expiration of the time specified for removal or modification,
such removal or modification has not been completed, such sign is
declared to be a public nuisance. Abatement, or other enforcement
action, may proceed using the procedures set forth in this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
No building permit may be issued with respect to any property
for a use conforming to the provisions of this Code until any nonconforming
sign or any sign illegally maintained on the property is removed or
modified to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
All existing illegal on-premises signs and abandoned signs must
be inventoried and identified as required by Business and Professions
Code Section 5491.1. The inventory and identification must commence
within six months from the date this chapter becomes effective. Within
60 days after the six month period, the City may commence abatement
of the identified preexisting illegal and abandoned on-premises advertising
displays.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
The Director may extend time periods for complying with this
chapter including a reasonable time period to amortize the cost of
a sign for tax purposes under Internal Revenue Code Section 167. Requests
for such extensions must be for good cause shown and based upon substantive
evidence. In no event may such extension exceed a total of 10 years.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Unsafe
Signs. Unsafe signs may be removed by the City without prior notice.
Alternatively, the Director may issue a notice of violation and give
the permittee, property owner or person in possession and control
of the property 15 days to cure the violation. In the case of an unsafe
sign removed by the City, the costs of such removal and storage are
borne by the permittee, property owner, or person in possession and
control of the property, as applicable, and may be collected by the
City in the same manner as it collects any other debt or obligation.
No unsafe sign that has been removed and stored by the City may be
released until the costs of removal and storage are paid. If an unsafe
sign remains unclaimed for a period of 30 days after notice of removal
is sent to the permittee, property owner, or person in possession
and control of the property, it is deemed to be unclaimed personal
property and disposed of in accordance with the law.
B.
Illegal
Signs. Any illegal sign must be removed or brought into conformity
by the permittee, property owner, or person in possession and control
of the property following written notice from the Director. Such notice
must specify the nature of the violation, order the cessation thereof
and require either the removal of the sign or performance of remedial
work in the time and manner specified by the notice. The time for
removal or repair may not be less than 15 days from the date of mailing
the notice. The Director's order may be appealed to the Planning Commission
in the manner provided by this Code. Should the order be appealed
to the Planning Commission, which, following a hearing, upholds the
Director's order, the City need not follow the abatement procedures
set forth below to abate the sign.
C.
Legal
Nonconforming Signs—Special Circumstances. The City cannot require
any legal nonconforming sign to be removed on the sole basis of its
height or size if special topographic circumstances would result in
a material impairment of visibility of the sign or the owner's or
user's ability to adequately and effectively continue to communicate
to the public through the use of the sign. The owner or user may maintain
the sign at the business premises and at a location necessary for
continued public visibility at the height or size at which the sign
was previously erected pursuant to all applicable codes, regulations
and permits. Such signs are deemed to be in conformance with this
chapter.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
A.
Whenever
the permittee, property owner, or person in possession or control
of the property fails to comply with a Director's order requiring
compliance with this chapter, the City may abate any such sign in
the following manner:
1.
Declaration
of Nuisance. The City Council may declare, by resolution, as public
nuisances and abate all illegal signs within its jurisdiction. The
resolution must describe the property upon which or in front of which
the nuisance exists by stating the lot and block number according
to the county assessor's map and street address, if known. Any number
of parcels of private property may be included in one resolution.
2.
Notice
of Hearing. Before the City Council adopts the resolution, the City
Clerk must mail not less than 10 days' written notice to all persons
owning the property described in the proposed resolution as determined
by the last equalized assessment roll available on the date the notice
is prepared. In addition, the notice must be sent to all known persons,
if any, in possession or control of such property if their names are
different from those appearing on the assessment roll, and to the
permittee, if any. The notice must state the date, time and place
of the hearing and generally describe the purpose of the hearing and
the nature of the illegal sign.
3.
Posting
of Notice.
a.
After a resolution is adopted, the enforcement officer must cause
notices to be conspicuously posted on or in front of the property
on or in front of which the illegal sign exists.
b.
Notice must be substantially in the following form:
|
NOTICE TO REMOVE ILLEGAL SIGN
|
|
Take Notice that on the _____ day of __________, 20_____, the
Bellflower City Council adopted a resolution declaring that an illegal
sign is located on or in front of this property which constitutes
a public nuisance. The sign must be abated by being removed. Failure
to remove the sign will result in the City taking action to remove
it. The cost of such removal will be assessed upon the property from
or in front of which the sign is removed and will constitute a lien
upon the property until paid. Refer to the resolution for further
particulars. A copy of this resolution is on file in the office of
the City Clerk. All property owners having any objection to the proposed
removal of the sign are notified to attend a meeting of the City Council
of the City of Bellflower to be held on __________ at _____ a.m./p.m.
at (_____location__________), when their objections will be heard
and given due consideration.
|
|
Dated this _____day of _______________, 20_____.
|
|
____________________
City Clerk
City of Bellflower
|
B.
This
notice must be posted at least 10 days before the time for hearing
objections by the City Council.
C.
Written
Notice of Proposed Abatement.
1.
In
addition to posting notice of the resolution and notice of the meeting
when objections will be heard, the City Council must direct the City
Clerk to mail written notice of the proposed abatement to the all
persons owning the property described in the resolution. The City
Clerk must cause the written notice to be mailed to each person on
whom the described property is assessed in the last equalized assessment
roll available on the date the City Council adopted its resolution.
2.
The
City Clerk must confirm with the County Assessor the names and addresses
of all the persons owning the property described in the resolution.
The address of a property owner shown on the assessment roll is conclusively
deemed to be the proper address for the purpose of mailing the notice.
If the county of Los Angeles poses any charges upon the City for the
actual costs of furnishing the list, the City will reimburse the County
and such costs is a part of the cost of abatement assessed against
the property owner.
3.
The
notices mailed by the City Clerk must be mailed at least 10 days before
the time for hearing objections by the City Council. The notices mailed
by the Clerk must be substantially in the form of notice set forth
above.
D.
Hearing—Continuances—Objections—Finality
of Decision—Order to Abate.
1.
At
the time stated in the notices, the City Council will hear and consider
all objections to the proposed removal of the sign. It may continue
the hearing from time to time. By motion or resolution at the conclusion
of the hearing, the City Council will allow or overrule any objections.
At that time, the City acquires jurisdiction to proceed and perform
the work of removal.
2.
The
City Council's decision is final. If objections are not been made,
or after the City Council has disposed of those made, the council
will order the enforcement officer to abate the nuisance by having
the sign removed. The order must be made by motion or resolution.
E.
Entry
Upon Private Property. The enforcement officer or City contractor
may enter private property to abate the nuisance.
F.
Removal
by Owner—Special Assessment and Lien for Costs. Before the enforcement
officer takes action, the property owner or person in possession or
control of the property may remove the illegal sign at the owner's
own cost and expense. Notwithstanding such action, in any matter in
which an order to abate was issued, the City Council may, by motion
or resolution, further order that a special assessment and lien be
limited to the costs incurred by the City in enforcing abatement upon
the property, including investigation, boundary determination, measurement,
clerical, legal and other related costs.
G.
Cost
of Abatement; Itemization.
1.
The
enforcement officer will keep an account of the cost of abatement
of an illegal sign. Such officer must submit to the City Council,
for confirmation, an itemized written report showing that cost.
2.
A
copy of the report must be posted at least three days before being
submitted to the City Council, on or near the City Council chambers
door, with notice of the time of submission.
3.
At
the time fixed for receiving and considering the report, the City
Council will hear it with any objections of the property owners liable
to be assessed for the abatement. The City Council may modify the
report if it is deemed necessary. The City Council may then confirm
the report by motion or resolution.
H.
Abatement
by Contract. The nuisance may, in the sole discretion of the City
Council, be abated by performance on a contract awarded by the City
Council on the basis of competitive bids let to the lowest responsible
bidder. The contractor performing the contract must keep an itemized
account and submit such itemized written report for each separate
parcel of property required by this section.
I.
Special
Assessment and Lien.
1.
The
cost incurred by the City in enforcing abatement upon the parcel or
parcels, including investigation, boundary determination, measurement,
clerical, legal or other related costs, are a special assessment against
that parcel. After the assessment is made and conformed, a lien attaches
on the parcel upon recordation of the order confirming the assessment
in the office of the Los Angeles County Recorder. In the event any
real property to which a lien would attach was transferred or conveyed
to a bona fide purchaser for value, or if the lien of a bona fide
encumbrancer for value was created and attaches thereon, before the
date on which the first installment of the assessment would become
delinquent, the lien which would otherwise be imposed by this section
will not attach to the real property and the costs of abatement and
the costs of enforcing abatement, as confirmed, relating to the property
will be transferred to the unsecured roll for collection.
2.
Upon
confirmation of the report, a copy must be given to the County Assessor
and Tax Collector, who will add the amount of the assessment to the
next regular tax bill levied against the parcel for municipal purposes.
3.
The
City must file a certified copy of the report with the County Assessor,
Tax Collector and County Auditor on or before August 10th of each
calendar year. The description of the parcels reported must be those
used for the same parcels on the Los Angeles County Assessor's map
books for the current year.
4.
The
City may request the County Auditor to enter each assessment on the
county tax roll opposite the parcel of land.
5.
The
City will further request the County Auditor to collect the amount
of the assessment at the time and in the manner of ordinary municipal
taxes. Any delinquencies in the amount due are subject to the same
penalties and procedures of foreclosure provided for ordinary municipal
taxes.
6.
The
City acknowledges that the County Tax Collector may collect assessments
without reference to the general taxes by issuing separate bills and
receipts for the assessments. It is further acknowledged that the
lien of assessment has the priority of the taxes with which it is
collected, and further, that all laws relating to levy, collection
and enforcement of county taxes apply to these special assessments.
J.
Issuance
of Receipts for Abatement Costs. The enforcement officer may receive
the amount due on the abatement costs and issue receipts at any time
after the confirmation of the report and until 10 days before a copy
is given to the Assessor and Tax Collector or, where a certified copy
is filed with the County Auditor, until August 1st following the confirmation
of the report.
K.
Refund
of Assessments. The City Council may order a refund of all or part
of an assessment pursuant to this section if it finds that all or
part of the assessment was erroneously levied. An assessment, or part
thereof, will not be refunded unless a claim is filed with the City
Clerk on or before November 1st after the assessment has become due
and payable. The claim must be verified by the person who paid the
assessment or by the person's guardian, conservator, executor or administrator.
(Ord. 1404 § 6, 12/14/20)
