The city recognizes that signs serve many important functions
in the community, including identifying and advertising businesses;
providing direction to motorists and pedestrians; identifying special
events and sales; and promoting political campaigns. The location,
height, size, and illumination of these signs, however, shall be regulated
in order to maintain the attractiveness and orderliness of the city's
appearance; to protect business sites from loss of prominence resulting
from excessive signs on nearby sites, and to protect the public safety
and general welfare.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
A.
The
sign standards provided in this section shall apply to signs in each
zoning district in the city. Only signs authorized by this section
shall be allowed in the zoning districts, unless otherwise expressly
provided in this section.
B.
If
a new zoning district is created after the enactment of this section,
this Section shall be amended concurrently to regulate signs in the
new zoning district.
C.
The
sign standards shall apply to the private use of both private property
and public property, including public rights-of-way.
D.
Regulations governing the front windows of commercial businesses are in subsection 3.11.080 (Front windows of commercial businesses).
E.
This
section shall not be construed or applied in a fashion as would give
preference or a greater degree of protection to a sign conveying a
commercial message than is given to a sign similarly situated and
conveying a noncommercial message. Any ambiguity shall be resolved
in favor of allowing a noncommercial sign the same benefits, exemptions,
and other protections as may be given to a commercial sign similarly
situated.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
The following signs shall be exempt from the provisions of this
Section:
A.
Official
notices authorized by a court, public body, or public officer.
B.
Directional,
warning, or informational signs authorized by federal, state, or municipal
authority.
C.
Memorial
plaques and building cornerstones when cut or carved into a masonry
surface, or when made of incombustible material and made an integral
part of the structure.
D.
Commemorative
symbols, plaques, or historical tablets.
E.
Flags,
emblems, insignias, and posters of any nation, state, international
organization, political subdivision, or other governmental agency;
unlighted nonverbal religious symbols attached to a place of religious
worship; and, temporary displays of a patriotic, religious, charitable,
or civic character that are 35 feet in height or less.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
A free floating sign, balloon of a dimension greater than 24 inches in diameter, kite, inflatable object, or similar device or display with or without a commercial or noncommercial message that is not directly affixed to or in direct contact with a structure or property and which is intended to be visible to the public and used to announce, direct attention to, or advertise. Balloons, which are 24 inches or less in diameter, and flags, as described in subsection 3.15.030 (Exempt signs), shall not be considered aerial signs. Free floating, for purposes of this section, shall mean that, although tethered, the device shall appear to float or hover above the ground, structure, or other surface or object a vertical distance of at least three feet above the highest point of the ground, structure, or other surface.
A sign that uses movement, other than rotations or revolutions,
or change of lighting, to depict action or create a special effect
or scene.
The area of a sign face (which is also the sign area of a
wall sign or other sign with only one face) shall be computed as provided
for in subsection 3.15.060B. (Calculation of sign area and height).
A sign of lightweight fabric or similar material. National,
state, or municipal flags, or the official flag of an institution,
shall not be considered banners.
A sign located on private property, designed for use with
changing advertising copy, and which normally is used for the advertisement
of goods produced or services rendered at locations other than the
premises on which the sign is located.
An incidental sign containing no commercial message that
is provided for the sole purpose of identifying the tenants of a building
or the name of a building.
A sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy,
or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover over a door,
entrance, window, or outdoor service areas. A marquee is not a canopy.
A sign or portion of a sign with characters, letters, or
illustrations that can be changed or rearranged without altering the
face or the surface of the sign. A sign on which the message changes
more than eight times per day shall be considered an animated sign
and not a changeable copy sign. A sign on which the only copy that
changes is an electronic or mechanical indication of time or temperature
shall be considered a "time and temperature" portion of a sign, and
not a changeable copy sign.
Any sign wording, logos, or other representation that directly
or indirectly names, advertises, or calls attention to a business,
product, service, or other commercial activity. Where a decorative
wall mural contains wording, logos, or other representation of a business,
product, service, or other commercial activity provided within the
same structure on which the mural is painted, the wording, logos,
or other representation shall be considered a commercial message.
See "Projecting sign."
A sign that is intermittently on and off or that revolves
in a manner to create the illusion of being on and off, except time
and temperature signs.
A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed
on or anchored into the ground and that are independent from a building
or other structure. Also called a "pole sign."
A sign, generally informational, that has a purpose secondary
to the use of the same parcel on which it is located, such as "no
parking," "entrance," "loading only," and other similar directives.
A sign with a commercial message legible from a position off the parcel
on which the sign is located shall not be considered incidental.
A device or object constructed of vinyl, fabric, rubber,
plastic, or other airtight material of a dimension greater than 24
inches in diameter, which relies for its shape and support on inflation
by a compressed gas, air blower or fan ducting air into it and which
is intended to be visible to the public and used to announce, direct
attention to, or advertise.
A sign that is either a part of or attached flat against
a structure and receiving its immediate and sole support from a structural
element of the structure. A sign that is integral with a structure
shall not exceed the height of the structure. A sign may be considered
integral with a structure if it is part of or attached flat to a canopy,
arcade, marquee, or other similar projection from the structure, provided
the sign does not exceed the height of the canopy, arcade, marquee,
or similar projection.
A sign that is characterized by changeable copy, whether
the sign is freestanding or a wall sign, or whether the sign projects
from and is supported by a structure.
A sign placed directly on the ground, with no freestanding
supports. A monument sign is freestanding, attached to the ground,
and is independent of the support of any building.
A large-scale painting either painted directly on or attached
to the wall of a structure so that it is an integral part of the wall.
A sign, or display of any character, that does not conform
to the sign standards for subject matter, location, size, lighting,
or movement prescribed for the zoning district in which it is located.
A lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether
or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire,
or string, usually in a series, designed to move in the wind and attract
the atten-tion of passers-by.
See "Freestanding sign."
A sign indicating the name and/or picture of an individual
seeking election or appointment to a public office, or relating to
a proposition or change of law in a public election or referendum,
or pertaining to the advocating of political views or policies by
persons, groups, or parties.
A sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent
structure, or a sign designed to be transported, including, but not
limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels, signs
converted to A- or T-frames, menu and sandwich board signs, inflatable
signs, umbrellas used for advertising, and signs attached to or painted
on vehicle(s) parked and visible from the public right-of-way, unless
the vehicle(s) is/are used in the normal day-to-day operations of
the business.
A sign, other than a wall sign, that is attached to and projects
from the wall or face of a structure, or is attached to and hangs
from a building eave.
A temporary sign advertising real property for sale, rent,
or lease, but excluding pennants, flags, and banners.
A sign erected and constructed wholly on and over the roof
of a structure, supported by the roof structure, and extending vertically
above the highest portion of the roof.
A sign, all or a portion of which moves in some manner, excepting
time and temperature signs.
A writing (including letter, word, or numeral), pictorial
presentation (including illustration or deco-ration), emblem (including
device, symbol or trademark), flag (including banner or pennant) or
any other device, figure, or similar character that is:
A structure or any part of a structure or is attached to, painted
on, or in any other manner represented on a building, or other structure
or device, or is in any way attached to a building or other structure
or device;
Used to announce, direct attention to, or advertise; and
Visible from outside the building or structure.
A temporary real estate sign advertising the initial sale,
lease, or other disposition of more than one unit or parcel of real
property in any single contiguous grouping of units or parcels of
real property, including apartment or group housing complexes of 30
units or more.
Signage constructed of paper, cloth, canvas, or other similar
lightweight material, with or without frames, used solely for the
purpose of advertising or conveying a message related to an event
with a beginning and ending date, including elections, political campaigns,
dances, civic or charitable events, theatrical and circus performances,
or special sales by retail stores. This definition shall only apply
to a sign that is used temporarily and is not permanently mounted.
A sign fastened to or painted on the wall of a structure
so that the wall becomes the supporting structure for or forms the
background surface of the sign. The sign may not project more than
14 inches beyond the vertical wall surface or it shall be considered
a projecting sign.
A sign, picture, symbol, or combination of sign, picture,
or symbol, designed to communicate information about an activity,
business, commodity, event, sale, or service, that is placed inside
a window or upon the windowpanes or glass and is visible from the
exterior of the window.
 Figure 3-12
Sign Types
|
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
A.
Design review for signs—When required. The following types or conditions of signs shall be subject to design review in compliance with the provisions of subsection 4.19.060 (Design review):
1.
New sign programs for commercial and industrial centers/complexes
or substantive modifications for those programs previously approved
by the staff review committee and confirmed by the council. The director
shall make the determination of what constitutes a substantive modification.
Subsequent sign proposals within the center/complex consistent with
the approved sign program shall be subject only to review and approval
by the building official and the director.
2.
All other signs consistent with the provisions of this section shall
be subject only to review and approval by the building official and
the director or designee.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
A.
Sign construction and maintenance.
1.
Signs shall be structurally safe, consist of rust-inhibitive material,
and shall be maintained in good condition, as determined by the director.
2.
The landowner shall be required to remove any sign or signs on the
premises where the use advertised by the sign(s) has been discontinued
for a period of over 90 days.
3.
Signs, including supports, braces, guys, and anchors, shall be kept
in repair and in a safe state of preservation.
4.
The display surfaces of signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted
at all times.
5.
Landscape areas surrounding signs shall be kept weed-free and in
a healthy condition.
6.
The director may order the removal of any sign that is not maintained
in compliance with the provisions of the city's building code.
7.
For the purposes of public safety, the name of the site's business/activity/use
shall contain the name of the business indicated in the English language
or Latin alphabet on at least one location on the site. The sign shall
comply with requirements found elsewhere in this section and shall
be clearly visible from the public right-of-way closest to and/or
the main parking area serving the site.
B.
Calculation of sign area and height. The following standards
shall be used to determine sign area and sign height. Figure 3-13
(Calculation of Sign Area) indicates how calculation shall be made.
 Figure 3-13
Calculation of Sign Area
|
1.
Area of single-faced sign.
a.
For signs having a distinct border or boundary, the sign area shall
be calculated by multi-plying the length times the width of the entire
surface contained within the border, boundary, sign board, or sign
face.
b.
For signs with no distinct border or boundary, the sign area shall
be calculated by computing the area of a simple rectilinear figure
consisting of not more than eight perpendicular lines that contain
all of the writing, representations, emblems, logos, or other display
elements of the sign.
2.
Area of a double-faced sign. For signs with two
identical faces, arranged back to back in parallel planes, and where
the sign faces are separated by no more than 36 inches, the sign area
shall be calculated for one side only.
3.
Area of a multi-faced sign. For a sign with more
than one face, where the sign does not meet the standards for a double-faced
sign described in subparagraph 2. above, the area shall be calculated
by adding together the area of all sign faces visible from any one
point.
4.
Measurement of sign height. The height of a sign
shall be determined by measuring the distance from the base of the
sign at normal grade to the top of the highest attached component
of the sign. Normal grade shall be construed to be the lower of either:
(1) the existing grade before sign construction; or (2) the newly
established grade after construction, exclusive of any filling, berming,
mounding, or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the sign.
 Figure 3-14
Measurement of Sign Height
|
C.
Allowed signs by zoning district table. Table 3-7 (Allowed
Signs by Zoning District) provides the regulations applicable to signs
in all zoning districts.
|
TABLE 3-7
ALLOWED SIGNS BY ZONING DISTRICT
| |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Use
|
Type of Sign and Number Allowed
|
Size Restrictions
|
Other Regulations
|
|
Residential Zoning Districts
| |||
|
1. Single-family residential
|
1 unlighted name plate per unit
|
Maximum area of 1 square foot
|
Name plates may not be combined for 2 or more units
|
|
2. Multi-family dwelling, apartment development, etc.
|
1 unlighted identification sign per development
|
Maximum area of 15 square feet Freestanding signs: maximum height
of 6 feet
| |
|
3. Agricultural use
|
1 unlighted sign pertaining to the products raised on the premises
|
Maximum area of 6 square feet Maximum height of 6 feet
| |
|
4. Public or semi-public uses in residential zoning districts
|
1 lighted or unlighted sign to identify use
|
Maximum area of 15 square feet Maximum height of 6 feet
| |
|
Commercial Zoning Districts
| |||
|
1. OP (Office Professional) zoning district: Office uses
|
1 nameplate indicating the name and business or profession of
occupant
|
Maximum area of 2 square feet
|
Nameplates may be combined for 2 or more offices in same structure
in the form of a directory
|
|
1 directory sign
|
Maximum area of 75 square feet Freestanding directories: maximum
area of 75 square feet, maximum height of 8 feet
|
Subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
1 single-faced, lighted, wall or canopy sign indicating the
name of the structure
|
Maximum area of 30 square feet
|
Allowed for structures containing 4 or more tenants. Subject
to Design Review (4.19.060).
| |
|
2. CN-10000 (Commercial Neighborhood) zoning district: Commercial
uses (except service stations)
|
1 freestanding, lighted sign indicating the name of the shopping
center
|
Maximum area of 75 square feet, and maximum height of 10 feet
|
Maximum 2 signs per use Subject to Design Review (4.19.060).
All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
|
|
1 single-faced, lighted, wall or canopy sign on each building
frontage or each tenant space
|
Maximum area of 1 square foot for each lineal [linear] foot
of property frontage, to a maximum area of 75 square feet per sign
| ||
|
3. CG (Commercial General) zoning district: Commercial uses
(except service stations)
|
1 freestanding, lighted identification sign
|
Maximum area of 75 square feet for each street frontage, and
a maximum height of 15 feet. For every lineal [linear] foot of property
frontage in excess of 75 feet, an additional 1 square foot of sign
area, up to a maximum area of 125 square feet
|
Maximum 1 sign per parcel All signs subject to Design Review
(4.19.060)
|
|
1 single-faced, lighted, wall or canopy sign on each building
frontage or each tenant space
|
Maximum area of 1 square foot for each lineal [linear] foot
of property frontage, to a maximum area of 100 square feet
|
Maximum 2 signs per use All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
1 single-faced lighted wall sign per building elevation for
each single-tenant freestanding building structure
|
Front sign: Maximum area of 1 square foot for each linear foot
of a structure's front elevation Side and rear signs: maximum area
of 1 square foot for every 2 linear feet of the side or rear building
elevation
|
Maximum of 3 signs per building All signs subject to Design
Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
4. CH (Commercial Heavy) zoning district: Commercial uses (except
service stations)
|
1 freestanding, lighted identification sign
|
Maximum area of 75 square feet for each street frontage, and
a maximum height of 10 feet For every lineal [linear] foot of property
frontage in excess of 75 feet, an additional 1 square foot of sign
area, up to a maximum area of 125 square feet
|
Maximum 1 sign per parcel
|
|
1 single-faced, lighted, wall or canopy sign on each side of
the front of a structure.
|
Maximum area of 1 square foot for each lineal [linear] foot
of property frontage, to a maximum area of 100 square feet
|
Maximum 2 signs per use All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
1 single-faced, lighted wall sign per building elevation for
each freestanding structure
|
Front sign: Maximum area of 1 square foot for each linear foot
of a structure's front elevation Side and rear signs: maximum area
of 1 square foot for every 2 linear feet of a structure's side or
rear elevation
|
Maximum of 3 signs All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
Additional signing for uses in this zoning district may be approved
under Design Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
5. Service stations in all Commercial zoning districts
|
1 lighted, freestanding sign
|
Maximum area of 50 square feet Maximum height of 30 feet. All
signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
2 canopy signs
|
Maximum area of 30 square feet
| ||
|
2 wall signs
|
Maximum area of 30 square feet
| ||
|
1 price sign
|
Maximum area of 12 square feet
| ||
|
Informational/promotional signs
|
Maximum total combined area of 6 square feet
| ||
|
6. Public and semi-public uses in all Commercial zoning districts
|
1 lighted sign
|
Maximum area of 30 square feet Freestanding signs: maximum height
of 6 feet
|
All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
|
|
Industrial Zoning Districts
| |||
|
1. BP (Business Park) zoning district: Industrial uses
|
All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
| ||
|
See Paragraph D (Specific Plan Sign Provisions) of this Subsection 3.15.060
|
See Paragraph D (Specific Plan Sign Provisions) of this Subsection 3.15.060
|
All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
2. ML (Industrial Light) zoning district: Industrial uses
|
1 single-faced, lighted, wall or canopy sign on the side of
the building facing the major street
|
Maximum area of 1 square foot for each lineal [linear] foot
of building, up to a maximum area of 100 square feet. All signs subject
to Design Review (4.19.060)
| |
|
1 lighted, freestanding sign per parcel
|
Maximum area of 75 square feet Maximum height of 10 feet
| ||
|
Parcel containing 2 or more uses: 1 lighted, freestanding combined
sign per parcel
|
Maximum area of 100 square feet Maximum height of 15 feet
| ||
|
3. Public and semi-public uses in all Industrial zoning districts
|
1 lighted sign
|
Maximum area of 30 square feet Freestanding signs: maximum height
of 6 feet
|
All signs subject to Design Review (4.19.060)
|
|
D. Special Purpose and Overlay Zoning Districts
| |||
|
1. MHP-20A (Mobile Home Park) zoning district
|
2 lighted signs indicating the name of the mobile home park
|
Maximum area of 20 square feet per sign
|
Signs shall be attached to and not extending above wall or fence
at the major street entrance to park
|
|
2. PRD-5A (Planned Residential Development) zoning district
|
2 unlighted signs identifying the development
|
Maximum area of 20 square feet per sign
|
Signs shall be attached to and not extending above a wall or
fence at the major street entrance to the development
|
|
3. PC (Planned Community) zoning district
|
2 unlighted signs identifying the development
|
Maximum area of 20 square feet per sign
| |
|
4. PC-25A (Planned Community) zoning district
|
Signage allowed as specified in the standards of development
approved by City staff and Council
| ||
|
5. PS-1A (Public and Semi-Public) zoning district
|
Signage allowed as specified in Section 29.25, except: Agricultural
use: 1 unlighted sign pertaining to the products raised on the premises
Monument signs for public, semi-public, religious and institutional
uses: 1 internally or externally lighted sign per public street frontage
(plus 1 per corner at public street intersection) subject to approval
by the Staff Review Committee Readerboard components: subject to approval
by the Staff Review Committee for public uses; Conditional Use Permit
for semi-public, religious or institutional uses Other signing allowed
as specified in the Conditional Use Permit for each use
|
Maximum area of 6 square feet Maximum height of 6 feet Monument
signs: Maximum area of 75 square feet with a maximum height of 8 feet
from adjacent grade or 10 feet from top of curb at the street frontage
closest to the sign Readerboard components shall be permitted as part
of the overall design, however in no case shall the lighting associated
with the readerboard be allowed to create a nuisance to surrounding
uses (mandatory reduction in lighting intensity or shutdown of the
readerboard after 10:00 p.m. if warranted) or the content of the message
on the readerboard creates a distraction to vehicular traffic (words
such as "stop", "look", "danger" etc.
| |
|
6. CC (Civic Center) zoning district
|
1 unlighted name plate indicating the name of the occupant Other
signage as specified in the Conditional Use Permit for each use
|
Maximum area of 1 square foot
| |
|
7. PCM (Planned Commercial/Light Industrial) zoning district
|
1 single-faced, lighted, wall or canopy sign on each side of
the building frontage
|
Maximum area of 1 square foot per each lineal [linear] foot
of business frontage, up to a maximum area of 75 square feet
|
Maximum of 2 signs per use Additional signage may be approved
at the discretion of the Director
|
|
1 freestanding monument sign.
|
Maximum area of 75 sq. ft. Maximum height of 4 feet.
|
Signage subject to the specifications of the standards of development
approved by City staff and Council. Signs subject to Design Review
(4.19.060)
| |
D.
Specific plan sign provisions.
1.
Single-tenant industrial/office buildings. In single-tenant
industrial/office buildings, no wall sign shall exceed an area equal
to one and one-half square feet of sign for each one foot of lineal
[linear] frontage of building or store, fronting on a street or parking
lot. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 150 square feet nor comprise
more than 10% of the area of the elevation upon which the sign is
located.
2.
Multi-tenant industrial/office buildings.
a.
Multi-story multi-tenant buildings where tenants occupy 25%
or more of floor area. Tenants occupying 25% or more of the
floor area of a multi-story, multi-tenant industrial/office building
shall be permitted a wall sign not to exceed one square foot of sign
area for each lineal [linear] foot of building frontage. The maximum
sign area shall not exceed 150 square feet nor comprise more than
10% of the area of the elevation upon which the sign is located, whichever
is greater. A tenant occupying floor space with more than one building
frontage shall be permitted to have an additional wall sign on the
other frontage(s) not to exceed 100 square feet per frontage nor to
comprise more than 10% of the area of the elevation upon which the
sign is located, whichever is greater. A maximum of two signs shall
be allowed on each building elevation. Signs on the same elevation
shall not duplicate copy.
b.
Multi-story multi-tenant buildings where tenants occupy less
than 25% of building floor area. Tenants occupying less than
25% of the floor area of a multi-story, multi-tenant industrial/office
building shall be allowed identification on freestanding monument
and directional signs serving the entire building/complex.
c.
Multi-story multi-tenant buildings where no tenants occupy
25% or more of floor area. Where no tenants occupy 25% or
more of the floor area of a multi-story, multi-tenant industrial/office
building, signage may be permitted subject to an approved sign program
by the design review committee.
d.
Single-story multi-tenant buildings. Wall signs
for single-story multi-tenant buildings shall not exceed one square
foot of sign area for each lineal [linear] foot of building frontage
occupied by the tenant up to a maximum sign area of 50 square feet.
For purposes of this paragraph, a building with an upper level mezzanine
is considered a single-story building.
3.
Freestanding restaurant buildings. Freestanding
restaurant buildings may have one wall sign for each building face
not to exceed a total of three wall signs. The front (main entry)
sign shall not exceed one square foot of sign area for each lineal
[linear] foot of front building elevation up to a maximum size of
150 square feet. Side or rear signs shall not exceed one square foot
for every two lineal [linear] feet of the side or rear elevation up
to a maximum size of 75 square feet.
F.
Billboard development standards. Billboards shall conform
to the following development standards, illustrated in figure 3-15
(Billboard Development Standards).
1.
Each billboard may have a maximum height of 30 feet.
2.
Each billboard may have a maximum area of 300 square feet.
3.
Each billboard shall have a minimum ground clearance of eight feet,
measured from the bottom of the billboard to the nearest ground surface.
4.
Billboards may not contain movement, blinking, flashing, or animation of any kind. Further, no billboard shall be modified or replaced in whole or in part to include any component that would render it an "electronic message center sign/digital display" as defined by Section 6.31.020. Modification includes any alteration which increases dimensions such as height, width, thickness and/or depth, weight or changes electronic connections/capacity to the existing billboard.
5.
Billboards shall not be constructed with more than two steel supports.
6.
Billboards shall not project into or over any public right-of-way.
7.
Each billboard shall conform to and maintain the minimum setback
requirements of the CH (Commercial Heavy) zoning district.
8.
Lighting of a billboard shall be only by an indirect source (shielded).
The lighting shall not exceed 800 milliamps rated capacity, or equivalent,
as determined by the building official.
 Figure 3-15
Billboard Dimensions
|
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04; Ord. No.
1049, § 1, 12-8-03; Ord. No. 1124, § 1, 11-22-10)
The following signs are specifically prohibited within the City:
A.
Signs
painted or imprinted upon, or attached in any way to a motor vehicle,
vehicle part, or trailer that is parked or stored at all times on
or within 50 feet of the city's arterial highways, and for a period
in excess of 24 hours on all other public rights-of-way.
1.
For the purpose of this section only, "arterial highway" shall mean
Lincoln Avenue, Katella Avenue, Valley View Street, Ball Road, Cerritos
Avenue, Knott Avenue, Moody Avenue, Orangewood Avenue, Bloomfield
Street, Crescent Avenue, Denni Street, Holder Street, Orange Avenue,
and Walker Street.
2.
This subsection shall not apply to government owned vehicles or vehicles
used exclusively for the delivery of goods or provision of services.
3.
Violations of any provisions of this paragraph A shall be subject
to the enforcement and penalty provisions of section 30 (Enforcement
Provisions) of this zoning ordinance and of the Municipal Code.
B.
Roof
signs.
C.
The
exhibition, posting, or displaying of any statement, symbol, or picture
of an obscene nature upon any sign or wall.
D.
Signs
painted on structures in all zoning districts except the CH (Commercial
Heavy) zoning district.
E.
Any
sign rotating or simulating movement by fluttering, spinning, or the
use of reflective devices.
F.
Any
sign blinking, flashing, or animated by lighting in any fashion.
G.
Canopy
signs that project above the canopy.
H.
Signs
encroaching upon or overhanging adjacent property.
I.
Any
sign erected, constructed, enlarged, modified, or relocated within
the city without a building permit.
J.
Any
electrical sign or sign illuminated by electricity that is erected,
constructed, enlarged, modified, or relocated within, without both
a building permit and an electrical permit.
K.
Any
sign that simulates or imitates in size, color, lettering, or design
and traffic sign or signal, or which makes use of the words "stop,"
"look," "danger," or any other words, phrases, symbols, or characters
in a manner that interferes with, misleads, or confuses traffic.
L.
Aerial
signs and displays. Balloons that are 24 inches or less in diameter
shall be exempt from this provision.
M.
Inflatable
displays.
O.
Portable A-frame signs.
P.
Supergraphic
sign.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04; Ord. No.
1124, § 2, 11-22-10)
A.
Nonconforming signs.
1.
Purpose. The eventual elimination of existing on-premises
signs that do not conform to this section is as important to the citywide
aesthetic and public health, safety, and welfare as the prohibition
of new signs that would violate the provisions of this section. It
is also recognized that nonconforming signs should be eliminated in
a manner that avoids an unreasonable invasion of established property
rights. With these goals in mind, the city regulates nonconforming
signs as outlined below.
2.
Continuation and maintenance.
a.
A sign, lawfully occupying a site, that does not conform with the
sign regulations for the zoning district in which the sign is located
shall be deemed to be a nonconforming sign and may only be displayed
and maintained, except as otherwise provided in this subsection.
b.
Routine maintenance and repairs may be performed on a sign when the
sign is nonconforming.
3.
Restrictions on existing signs. A nonconforming
sign may be continued in operation and maintained after the effective
date of this zoning ordinance. Nonconforming signs shall not be:
a.
Replaced with another nonconforming sign;
b.
Moved to another location on the property or to another property
unless it would then conform to the regulations of this subsection;
c.
Structurally altered to as to extend the useful life of the sign;
d.
Expanded or enlarged; or
e.
Re-established after damage or destruction of more than 50% of the
sign value, as determined at the time of the damage or destruction,
unless required by law or unless the move, alteration, enlargement,
or re-establishment will result in the elimination of the nonconformity.
4.
Allowed change in copy. The copy on a nonconforming
sign may be changed before the scheduled date of elimination by issuance
of a sign permit. The change may not create a new nonconforming sign
or increase the discrepancy between the existing nonconformity and
the regulations of this Section.
5.
Amortization schedule. Nonconforming signs shall
be discontinued, removed from their sites, altered to conform to the
requirements of this section, or altered as prescribed to decrease
the degree of non-conformity within the time schedules specified in
table 3-8 (Nonconforming Sign Elimination Schedule).
|
TABLE 3-8
NONCONFORMING SIGN
ELIMINATION SCHEDULE
| |
|---|---|
|
Description of Nonconforming Sign
|
Elimination Schedule
|
|
1. Lighting or movement nonconformity, any zoning district
|
Within 6 months of the date that the sign becomes nonconforming
|
|
2. Painted on wall, any zoning district
|
Within 1 year of the date that the sign becomes nonconforming
|
|
3. Any other nonconforming sign located in a residential zoning
district
|
Within 1 year of the date that the sign becomes nonconforming
|
|
4. All other nonconforming signs
|
Within 3 years of the date that the sign becomes nonconforming
|
B.
Nonconforming billboards. A billboard that does not conform
to the provisions of this section shall be modified or removed in
compliance with the following provisions:
1.
Billboards with an appraised value of less than $200 shall be brought
into conformance or removed by September 27, 1976.
2.
Billboards with an appraised value of more than $200 shall be brought
into conformance or removed by September 27, 1976.
3.
The appraised value of a billboard shall be determined by the director.
The appraisal shall be subject to review by the council if the review
is requested by the owner of the property on which the billboard is
situated.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
This section provides for the removal of abandoned on-premises
and off-premises signs.
A.
Removal required. Abandoned signs, including brackets, poles,
and other supports, shall be removed. If the owner or lessee fails
to remove the sign, the director shall give the owner 30 days' written
notice to remove it. Upon failure to comply with the notice, the Director
may have the sign removed at the owner's expense.
1.
On-premises signs. If a sign identifies a business
that is no longer conducted on the premises, it shall be removed as
follows:
a.
On-premises signs that no longer identify a business located on the
site shall be removed within 90 days of the close of the business.
b.
Sign copy within cabinet signs that are maintained shall be replaced
with blank sign copy within 90 days of the close of the business and
shall only be allowed to remain for a total of 18 months. These signs
may contain a "for rent" sign to indicate that the space is available
for rent.
c.
All abandoned sign structures shall be removed within 18 months of
the close of business.
2.
Off-premises signs. If a billboard is left blank
or is maintained without copy for a period of 60 days or more, the
billboard shall be removed within six months, unless a conditional
use permit is approved for its reuse.
B.
Authority to abate. The director is authorized to abate
illegal and abandoned signs on private property.
C.
Recovery of costs. When the city is required to remove an
abandoned sign in compliance with this subsection, the reasonable
cost of the removal shall be assessed against the owner of the sign(s)
and/or the property owner.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
A.
Notification of removal. If it is determined that a sign
is illegally placed on public property, public right-of-way, or public
easements, the city shall notify the owner to remove the sign within
48 hours or be billed for the costs of removal. If immediate action
is necessitated for public safety considerations, the city shall remove
the sign, and the sign owner shall be billed for the costs of removal.
B.
Request for hearing. The owner of a sign that has been removed
by the city may request a hearing to determine whether the sign was
in fact illegally located on public property. The request for a hearing
shall be made within 48 hours from the date of removal.
C.
Authority to destroy or dispose of sign. If the owner of
a sign fails to make a request for a hearing and no demand is made
for the return of the sign within 10 days of the date of removal,
then the city is authorized to destroy or dispose of the sign.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
A.
Neon signs. The use of neon signs shall be allowed, subject
to the following criteria and requirements:
1.
Development standards.
a.
The use of neon shall enhance the viewer's appreciation of the city's
nighttime atmosphere and shall be primarily aesthetic and decorative
with a utilitarian function only when used as signage.
b.
Neon signage and linear tubing shall be UL listed with a maximum
20 amps per circuit and shall be designed to accommodate a dimmer
in order to reduce the brightness of the neon. If materials are not
UL listed, an applicant shall show proof of listing by a recognized
listing company.
c.
Neon linear tubing shall not exceed one-half inch in width, shall
reinforce the architecture of a structure, and shall be concealed
from view when possible through the use of architectural features
(e.g., parapets, cornices, etc.).
d.
The neon manufacturer shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories
(UL).
e.
Neon adjacent to residential uses shall be a maximum of one-half
footcandle from property line.
2.
Review and permit requirements.
a.
The council shall review the amount of neon on a case-by-case basis. Applications for neon lighting shall be subject to design review in compliance with subsection 4.19.060 (Design review).
b.
Materials of high reflective qualities (e.g., mirror, glass, aluminum, metal, etc.) shall be reviewed for their reflective quality and may be approved on a case-by-case basis by the council. High glazed ceramic tiles shall be allowed only upon design review approval in compliance with subsection 4.19.060 (Design review).
c.
An applicant proposing neon signage shall submit a sign program for
the site for review by the director. The sign program shall illustrate
the location, size, and colors of proposed neon signs. Additionally,
the applicant shall execute a neon signage agreement with the city.
Permits issued for the use of neon signage shall be contingent upon
the signing and recordation in the Orange County Public Records of
the neon signage agreement.
B.
Nonprofit organization special event signs—Off-site. Off-site signs of a temporary nature advertising a special event
sponsored by a nonprofit organization are allowed, subject to the
following regulations:
1.
The signs shall not be erected more than 30 days before the event
and shall be removed within five days after the event has concluded.
Off-site signs and banners erected by the city, the city park and
recreation district, and nonprofit fraternal, sororal, social, and
sports organizations as specified by the city park and recreation
district shall not be erected more than 40 days before the event and
shall be removed within five days after the event has concluded.
2.
The organization sponsoring the event advertised on the sign shall
have the permission of the property owner to erect the sign on the
subject property.
3.
The sign shall not be allowed on or to extend over any public property
or public easement unless the city has specifically authorized the
placement.
4.
The signs shall be constantly maintained in a state of safety and
good repair.
C.
Political campaign signs. Signs advertising a political
candidate, group of candidates, political party, or ballot measure
in any district, municipal, county, state, federal election ("political
signs") shall not be erected more than 45 calendar days prior to the
election to which the signs may pertain, and shall be removed not
later than 10 calendar days after the date of the election to which
the signs may pertain, subject to the following regulations:
1.
No person shall post or otherwise affix any political campaign sign
upon any public facility located within any public right-of-way, or
in or upon any other public property or right-of-way, or in or upon
any other property, easement, or other right-of-way owned or controlled
by the City of Cypress, including, but not limited to any street,
median, island, sidewalk, traffic signal, utility pole, wires, traffic
control device, building, wall, bridge, railroad trestle, hydrant,
street tree, shrub, tree stake or tree guard, or street sign; and
2.
Political signs shall contain the committee name, address, and, if
available at the time of posting, any state-law required identification
number; and
3.
Any political sign installed or placed illegally shall be forfeited
and subject to confiscation. In addition to other remedies, the city
shall have the right to recover from the owner of such illegally installed
political sign, the cost of removal and disposal of the same. Such
cost shall be established by resolution of the city council. The director
of public works, or his/her designee, shall notify the owner or organization
of any such illegally posted sign of the confiscation of the same.
Such owner or organization may collect any such sign from the public
works department within 20 days of notification. Any such sign not
collected within the twenty-day period may be destroyed by the city
without further notice.
D.
Signs over a public right-of-way.
1.
Signs or banners shall not encroach upon or overhang adjacent to
any public right-of-way without first having received approval from
the director and the public works director.
2.
Signs shall not be attached or otherwise affixed to any street, meridian,
island, sidewalk, traffic signal, utility pole, wire, traffic control
device, building, structure, wall, bridge, railroad trestle, hydrant,
street tree, shrub, tree stake or tree guard, street sign, or any
other public facility located within the public right-of-way, or any
other domain owned or controlled by the city without first having
received approval from the director and the public works director.
3.
Bus shelters that contain advertisements are allowed in the public
right-of-way, subject to the regulations specified in paragraph E.
(Special purpose signs), below.
E.
Special purpose signs. The following special purpose signs
shall be allowed in all zoning districts in addition to the signs
allowed in table 3-7 (Allowed Signs by Zoning District):
2.
Directional signs. Each parking area entrance or exit may display one directional parking sign not exceeding 10 square feet in area and six feet in height. A sign erected in a traffic safety visibility area shall conform to the requirements of subsection 3.11.150 (Traffic safety visibility area).
3.
Real estate and development signs.
a.
For sale or rental signs.
(1)
Each use may display one on-site unlighted sign on each street
frontage adjoining the site. The signs shall not exceed six square
feet in area.
(2)
Each use may also display one "open house" sign. The signs shall
not be located in landscaped parkways, street medians, or bike trails.
(3)
Freestanding signs shall not exceed six feet in height.
(4)
Sale and rental signs shall be removed within 30 days from the
date of sale or rental.
(5)
Office buildings, shopping centers, and industrial subdivisions
may display one freestanding lease or rental sign and two building-mounted
signs. The total area of the signs shall not exceed 150 square feet.
Freestanding signs shall not exceed six feet in height. All lease
and rental signs shall be removed within one year from the date of
the final construction inspection.
b.
Construction signs.
(1)
On a site where a project is actively under construction, one
unlighted sign not exceeding 10 square feet in area may be displayed
for each contractor. The signs may be combined.
(2)
Freestanding signs shall not exceed six feet in height.
(3)
Construction signs shall be removed within five days after the
issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the city.
c.
Off-site directional signs.
(1)
Subdivision signs.
(a)
Each subdivision may display up to three off-site unlighted
signs identifying the name of the subdivision, the developer or agent,
an identification emblem, and a directional message. Each sign shall
not exceed 50 square feet in area or fifteen 915) feet in height.
Signs shall be subject to the approval of the director.
(b)
Directional subdivision signs shall be removed within two years
from the date of recordation of the final map, or when 100% of the
parcels have been sold, whichever comes first.
(2)
Apartment complex signs.
(a)
Apartment complexes of 30 units or more may display up to three
off-site unlighted signs identifying the name of the apartment complex,
the developer or agent, an identification emblem, and a directional
message. Each sign shall not exceed 50 square feet in area or 15 feet
in height. Signs shall be subject to the approval of the director.
(b)
Directional signs for apartment complexes of 30 units or more
shall be removed within one year from the date of the final construction
inspection.
(3)
Commercial uses signs.
(a)
Commercial uses greater than 40,000 square feet in size and
located in commercial zoning districts may display up to two off-site
unlighted signs identifying the name of the commercial use, the developer
or agent, an identification emblem, and a directional message. Each
sign shall not exceed 50 square feet in area or 15 feet in height.
Signs shall be subject to the approval of the director.
(b)
Directional signs for commercial uses be removed within six
months from the date of the final construction inspection.
d.
On-site subdivision signs.
e.
Subdivision entrance signs.
(1)
Each subdivision may display up to two unlighted signs indicating
the name of the subdivision at the major street entrance to the development.
The signs shall be attached to and not ex-tending above a wall or
fence, and shall not exceed 20 square feet in area.
(2)
Subdivision entrance signs shall be constructed of appropriate
materials and affixed to the wall or fence so that they are not readily
susceptible to vandalism.
4.
Sale signs. Each retail commercial use may display
sale signs while a sale of goods or services in being conducted. The
sale signs shall not exceed 50% of the window area.
F.
Temporary signs. Temporary signs shall be subject to the
following regulations:
1.
The placement, use, and keeping of temporary signs and banners shall
require a temporary use permit.
2.
Temporary signs shall not be allowed on or to extend over any public
property or public easement or any other domain owned or controlled
by the city without first having received approval from the director
and the public works director.
3.
Temporary signs shall not be posted so that they obscure traffic
or street signs or devices or present a hazard to the public.
4.
Temporary signs shall be constantly maintained in a state of safety
and good repair.
5.
Temporary signs shall not be placed upon a telephone or other utility
pole, or upon a permanent freestanding or monument sign.
6.
If a temporary sign is attached to a structure, the sign shall be
in scale with the structure.
7.
Retail commercial uses may display up to two temporary signs or banners
not to exceed 20 square feet each while a sale of goods or services
is being conducted for the period of time specified in paragraph 10,
below. Temporary and permanent window signs shall not exceed 25% of
the window area.
8.
The code enforcement officer may cause a temporary sign, that is
erected, placed, or maintained in violation of this section and that
is unsafe and an immediate threat to persons or to the property of
another, to be removed summarily and without notice. If the sign is
summarily removed, the code enforcement officer shall, as soon as
possible and not later than 24 hours after removal, notify the owner
or tenant of the property from which the sign was removed and, if
known, the owner of the sign.
9.
The temporary sign shall not be the primary sign identifying the
business.
10.
The use of temporary signs, including banners, shall be limited to
not more than two at any time and for not more than 14 days within
any three-month period, and for no more than a total of 30 days per
calendar year.
11.
Temporary signs and banners erected by the city, the city park and
recreation district, and nonprofit fraternal, sororal, social and
sports organizations as specified by the city park and recreation
district shall be limited to 45 contiguous [consecutive] days. Temporary
signs and banners may be erected no more than 40 days before an event
date, and shall be removed within five days of the conclusion of the
event.
G.
Window signs. Signs, including permanent and temporary,
shall not cover more than 25% of the area of one window.
(Ord. No. 1062, § 2(Exh.
A), 11-25-04)
