The purpose of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety, and welfare through a comprehensive system of reasonable, effective, consistent, content-neutral, and nondiscriminatory sign standards and requirements. More specifically, this chapter is intended to:
A. 
Balance public and private objectives by allowing adequate avenues for both commercial and noncommercial messages;
B. 
Encourage signs as an effective channel of communication while preventing visual clutter that will detract from the aesthetic character of the City;
C. 
Protect and improve the local economy and quality of life by preserving and enhancing the appearance of the streetscape;
D. 
Maintain and enhance the City's appearance by regulating the location, number, type, quality of materials, size, illumination, and maintenance of signs;
E. 
Restrict signs that may create a nuisance to nearby properties, violate privacy, or create hazards or unreasonable distractions for pedestrians or drivers;
F. 
Provide clear and unambiguous sign standards that enable fair and consistent enforcement; and
G. 
Ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right of free speech is protected.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
A. 
Animated Sign. A sign with messages that visually change, or images that move or appear to move, flash on or off, wink or blink with varying light intensity, show motion or create the illusion of motion, or revolve to create an illusion of being on or off.
B. 
Awning Sign. A sign placed on an awning.
FIGURE 17.29.020.B: AWNING SIGN
C. 
Balloon. Any air-or gas-filled device used for the purposes of signage or advertising.
D. 
Billboard. A sign used for general advertising for hire, that is, some or all of the display area is customarily used to display the messages of advertisers or sponsors other than the owner of the sign.
E. 
Canopy Sign. A sign attached to a fixed overhead shelter used as a roof, which may or may not be attached to a building.
FIGURE 17.29.020.E: CANOPY SIGN
F. 
Commercial Message. A message on a sign, or portion of a sign, that promotes, informs, or proposes an economic transaction, primarily concerns the economic interests of the sign sponsor and/or audience, or is intended to further discussion in the marketplace of goods and services.
G. 
Copy. Also called "sign copy." The visually communicative elements mounted on a sign.
H. 
Damaged Sign. Any sign with cracked or broken panels, peeling paint, missing letters, or any sign that has been partially destroyed by any cause.
I. 
Directional Sign. A sign that directs or guides pedestrian or vehicular traffic and which is nonadvertising in nature (e.g., handicapped parking, one-way, exit, and entrance).
J. 
Electronic Copy. A sign having the capability of presenting variable message displays by projecting an electronically controlled pattern, and which can be programmed to periodically change the message display.
K. 
Flag. Any fabric or banner containing distinctive colors, patterns, or design that displays the symbol(s) of a nation, state, local government, company, organization, belief system, idea, or other meaning.
L. 
Freestanding Sign. A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on or anchored in the ground, and which are structurally independent from any building.
FIGURE 17.29.020.L: FREESTANDING SIGNS
M. 
Freeway Information Sign. A multi-tenant sign advertising freeway-oriented businesses near a freeway interchange.
N. 
General Advertising for Hire. The advertising or promoting of other businesses, establishments or causes using methods of advertising, typically for a fee or other consideration, in contrast to self-promotion or on-site advertising.
O. 
Government Sign. A governmental sign for control of traffic and other regulatory purposes, including street signs, danger signs, railroad crossing signs, and signs of public service companies indicating danger and aids to service or safety.
P. 
Graffiti. Marks, such as inscriptions, drawings, or designs, which are placed, scratched, etched, painted, or sprayed on public or private property without the owner's consent.
Q. 
High-Rise Building Identification Sign. A sign on a building of at least four stories indicating the name of the building or residential development.
R. 
Illuminated Sign. A sign with an artificial source of light incorporated internally or externally for illuminating the sign.
S. 
Inflatable Sign. A form of inflatable device (e.g., shaped as an animal, blimp, or other object) that is displayed, printed, or painted on the surface of an inflatable background, and is primarily installed outside a building to attract attention to or to advertise a business, a business location, a service, a product, or an event.
T. 
Internally Illuminated Sign. A sign that is illuminated by a light source that is contained inside the sign where the message area is luminous, including cabinet signs and channel-letter signs.
U. 
Master Sign Program. A coordinated sign plan which includes details of all signs (not including exempt or temporary signs) which are or will be placed on a site.
V. 
Memorial Sign. An informational non-commercial sign, memorializing a person, event, structure, or site.
W. 
Mobile Billboard. Any vehicle, or wheeled conveyance which carries, conveys, pulls, displays, or transports any sign or billboard for the primary purpose of advertising a commercial or noncommercial message, or other general advertising for hire.
FIGURE 17.29.020.W: MOBILE BILLBOARD
X. 
Moving Sign. A sign or any portion thereof that rotates, moves, or appears to move in some manner by mechanical, electrical, natural, or other means.
Y. 
Non-Commercial Message. A message or image on a sign that directs public attention to or advocates an idea or issue of public interest or concern that does not serve to advertise or promote any business, product, activity, service, interest, or entertainment.
Z. 
Nonconforming Sign. A sign lawfully erected and legally existing on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Code, but which does not conform to the provisions of this Code.
AA. 
Outdoor Advertising Structure. Any structure of any kind or character erected or maintained for outdoor advertising purposes, upon which any outdoor advertising sign may be placed, located on a site other than the site on which the advertised use is located or on which the advertised product is produced.
BB. 
Pennant. A device made of flexible materials (e.g., cloth, paper, or plastic) that may or may not contain copy, and which is installed for attracting attention.
CC. 
Permanent Sign. A sign that is intended to be and is so constructed as to be of a lasting and enduring condition, remaining unchanged in character, condition (beyond normal wear) and position, and in a permanent manner affixed to the ground, wall, or building.
DD. 
Portable Sign. A moveable sign that rests on the ground and is not designed to be permanently attached to a building or permanently anchored to the ground, including, but not limited to, A-frame and H-frame signs are allowed subject to the following standards.
FIGURE 17.29.020.DD: PORTABLE SIGN, A-FRAME SIGN
EE. 
Projecting Sign. A single-or double-faced sign that is perpendicular to the face of a building and projects more than 15 inches from the face.
FIGURE 17.29.020.EE: PROJECTING SIGN
FF. 
Roof Sign. Any sign located on a roof of a building or having its major structural supports attached to a roof that extend above the roofline or parapet.
FIGURE 17.29.020.FF: ROOF SIGN
GG. 
Sign. Any identification, description, illustration, or device illuminated or non-illuminated, which is visible to the public from any exterior public right-of-way, and directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution, business or solicitation, including any permanently installed or situated merchandise; or any emblem, painting, banner, pennant, or placard designed to advertise, identify, or convey information. A display, device, or thing need not contain lettering to be a sign.
HH. 
Sign Area. The area contained within a single continuous perimeter enclosing all parts of such sign copy, excluding any structural elements outside the limits of the sign required to support the sign.
II. 
Sign Face. An exterior display surface of a sign, including non-structural trim, exclusive of the supporting structure. The area of a sign which is available for mounting and public display of the visually communicative image.
JJ. 
Traffic Sign. A sign for traffic direction, warning, and roadway identification.
KK. 
Wall Sign. A sign affixed to and wholly supported by a building in such a manner that its exposed face is approximately parallel to the plane of such building.
FIGURE 17.29.020.KK: WALL SIGN
LL. 
Window Sign. A temporary or permanent sign with a single face of copy that is painted or installed on a glass window or door, or located within 12 inches from inside the window, in a manner that it can be viewed from the exterior of a structure.
FIGURE 17.29.020.LL: WINDOW SIGN
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
A. 
The provisions of this chapter apply to all signs in all zones, constructed or physically altered on or after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title, unless otherwise specified.
1. 
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to prohibit a person from holding a sign while picketing or protesting on public property that has been determined to be a traditional or designated public forum, so long as the person holding the sign does not block ingress and egress from buildings; create a safety hazard by impeding travel on sidewalks, bike lanes, or vehicle lanes; or violate any other reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions adopted by the City.
2. 
The provisions of this chapter shall not require alteration of the display of any registered mark, trademark, service mark, trade name, or corporate name that may be associated with or incorporated into a registered mark, where such alteration would require the registered mark to be displayed in a manner differing from the mark as exhibited in the certificate of registration issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. It is the responsibility of the applicant to establish that a proposed sign includes a registered mark.
B. 
Regulatory Interpretations. The provisions of this chapter shall be applied in a content-neutral manner. Non-communicative aspects of all signs, not related to the content of the sign, shall comply with the provisions of this chapter. "Non-communicative aspects" include the time, place, manner, location, size, height, illumination, spacing, and orientation of signs.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
The following signs are exempt from the permit requirements of this chapter, and do not count toward the maximum sign area limitation for a site, provided that they conform to the specified standards.
A. 
Address Signs. Required address identification signs that are in conformance with the Building Code.
B. 
Commercial Displays on Vehicles. Displays on vehicles related to the goods or services provided by the vehicle owner or operator and public transit/public carrier graphics on properly licensed buses, taxicabs, and similar vehicles for hire that legally pass through the City.
C. 
Directional Signs. Directional and/or informational signs not more than eight square feet in area or four feet in height for the direction or convenience of the public such as outlining/assisting vehicle and pedestrian circulation within a site, egress, ingress, and any public facilities such as restrooms, telephones, walkways, and other similar features.
D. 
Flags. Flags that do not display a commercial message and are erected and located in accordance with the following standards:
1. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area. The maximum allowable sign area for an individual flag is 32 square feet.
2. 
Maximum Sign Height. The maximum flagpole height is 30 feet.
3. 
Location of Sign. Flagpoles shall not be located within any required setback.
4. 
Maximum Number of Signs. No more than two flags per lot in Residential Zones, no more than three flags per lot in all other zones.
E. 
Government Signs. Official notices issued by a court, public body, or office and posted in the performance of a public duty; notices posted by a utility or other quasi-public agency; signs erected by a governmental body to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic; non-commercial bus stop signs erected by a public transit agency, or other signs required or authorized by law.
F. 
Historic Plaques and Commemorative Signs. Historic plaques, memorial signs or tablets, or commemorative signs indicating names of buildings and dates of building erection, either attached to or cut into the surfaces of buildings, with a maximum allowable sign area of four square feet per sign.
G. 
Interior Signs. Signs that are in the interior areas of a building or site not visible from the public right-of-way, and at least three feet from a window, door, or other exterior wall opening.
H. 
Manufacturer's Mark. Manufacturer's marks, including signs on items such as vending machines, gas pumps, and ice containers with a maximum allowable sign area of four square feet per sign.
I. 
Mobile Vendor Signs. Signs fixed to mobile vending vehicles that identify or advertise the name, product, or service provided by the vendor. Each mobile vending vehicle is limited to a maximum sign area of eight square feet.
J. 
Nameplate. One nameplate for each tenant or occupancy not to exceed two square feet in area indicating the name of the occupant or tenant.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
Unless otherwise permitted by a specific provision of this chapter, the following sign types are prohibited:
A. 
Animated or Moving Signs. Animated, flashing, blinking, reflecting, revolving, or other similar sign with visibly moving or rotating parts or visible mechanical movement of any kind, unless expressly permitted by another section of this chapter.
B. 
Balloons, Inflatable Signs, Streamers, Pennants and Other Attention-Getting Devices. Balloons, inflatable signs, streamers, pennants, and other attention-getting devices, made of light-weight fabric or similar material, designed to rotate or move with the wind, that direct, promote, or that are otherwise designed to attract attention.
C. 
Cabinet or Can Signs. Internally illuminated cabinet and can signs.
D. 
Fence Signs. Signs attached or painted on fences or freestanding walls that are not part of a building.
E. 
General Advertising. Temporary signs that publicize or promote other businesses or causes using methods of advertising (in contrast to self-promotion, on-site sales, or on-site advertising). General advertising is also known as advertising for hire.
F. 
Mobile Billboards. Any sign carried or conveyed by a vehicle for the primary purpose of general advertising for hire. This prohibition eliminates mobile billboard advertising within the City to reduce traffic congestion, promote the safe movement of vehicular traffic, to reduce air pollution, and improve the aesthetic appearance of the City. This prohibition does not apply to displays on vehicles related to the goods or services provided by the vehicle owner or operator and public transit/public carrier graphics on properly licensed buses, taxicabs, and similar vehicles for hire that legally pass through the City.
G. 
Roof Signs.
1. 
Attached signs that extend above the roofline or parapet (whichever is higher) of a building with a flat roof.
2. 
Attached signs that extend above the deck line of a mansard or false-mansard roof.
3. 
Signs on rooftop structures, such as penthouse walls or mechanical enclosures.
H. 
Search Lights and Klieg Lights. Search and Klieg lights when used as attention-attracting devices for commercial uses.
I. 
Signs Located in the Public Right-of-Way or on Public Property. Other than official government signs or warning signs required by law, no inanimate sign can be placed in or project into the public right-of-way or on public property unless authorized by an encroachment permit.
J. 
Signs Affixed to Trees. Signs affixed to or cut into trees or other living vegetation shall be prohibited.
K. 
Signs on Terrain. Signs cut, burned, marked, or displayed in any manner on a street, sidewalk, cliff, hillside, or other terrain feature shall be prohibited.
L. 
Signs Creating Traffic or Pedestrian Safety Hazards. Signs placed, located, or displayed in such a manner as to constitute a traffic or pedestrian safety hazard shall be prohibited.
1. 
Signs that obstruct use of any door, window, or fire escape.
2. 
Signs that impede normal pedestrian use of public sidewalks. A minimum unobstructed width of four feet must always be maintained.
3. 
Signs that constitute a traffic hazard or obstruct the view of traffic, any authorized traffic sign, or signal device.
4. 
Signs that create confusion or conflict with any authorized traffic sign or signal device due to color, location, wording, or use of specific phrases, symbols, or characters.
M. 
Signs Producing Noise or Emissions. Signs producing visible smoke, vapor, particles, odor, noise, or sounds that can be heard at the property line shall be prohibited. This prohibition excludes menu boards with voice units at drive-through facilities.
N. 
Signs for Prohibited Uses. A sign displaying a commercial message promoting a business that is a prohibited use and has not been established as a legal nonconforming use.
O. 
Unauthorized Signs. Signs shall not be placed on private or public property without the permission of the property owner.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
A. 
Measuring Sign Area. Building painting, striping, and supporting structures are not included in sign area. The sign area is the total area contained within the smallest rectangular perimeter encompassing the sign, structures, and any background embellishments. The sign area for individual channel letter signs is the area contained by the smallest rectangular perimeter that will encompass each word. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows:
FIGURE 17.29.060.A: MEASURING SIGN AREA
1. 
Single-Faced Signs. The sign area is the area of the sign face.
2. 
Double-Faced Signs. Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points or located at an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area of double-faced signs is computed as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face will be used. Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located more than two feet or greater than 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces are counted toward sign area.
FIGURE 17.29.060.A.2: MEASURING DOUBLE-FACED SIGNS
3. 
Multi-Faced Signs. On a three-faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the area of two faces (the largest and smallest face) must be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area will be calculated as the sum of all faces.
FIGURE 17.29.060.A.3: MEASURING MULTI-FACED SIGNS
4. 
Three-Dimensional Signs. Three-dimensional signs include those that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three dimensional objects such as balls, cubes, clusters, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks. The sign area is the sum of all areas using the four vertical sides of the smallest rectangular prism that will encompass the sign.
FIGURE 17.29.060.A.4: MEASURING THREE-DIMENSIONAL SIGNS
B. 
Measuring Sign Height. The height of a sign is the vertical distance from the uppermost point used to measure sign area to the existing grade immediately below the sign.
1. 
Freestanding Signs. The height of freestanding signs, including freeway information signs, shall be measured as the vertical distance from grade at the edge of the right-of-way along which a sign is placed, to the highest point of the sign, including any structural or architectural component of the sign. When the grade at the edge of the right-of-way is higher than the site on which the sign is placed, that portion of the sign below the grade at the edge of the right-of-way shall not be included in determining the sign's overall height.
FIGURE 17.29.060.B: MEASURING SIGN HEIGHT
C. 
Measuring Sign Clearance. Sign clearance shall be measured as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the sign, including any framework or background embellishments.
FIGURE 17.29.060.C: MEASURING SIGN CLEARANCE
D. 
Building Frontage. Building frontage shall be measured as the widest lineal dimension, parallel to the ground, of a continuous frontage. A building's frontage is considered continuous if projections or recesses in a building wall do not exceed 10 feet in any direction. For buildings with two or more frontages, the length of the frontage and allowable sign area shall be calculated separately for each building frontage.
FIGURE 17.29.060.D: BUILDING FRONTAGE
E. 
Street Frontage. The length of street frontage is measured along the property line adjacent to the public right-of-way.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
A. 
Applicable Codes. In addition to complying with the provisions of this section, all signs must be constructed in accordance with the Uniform Building code, the Uniform Sign Code, the Electrical Code, and all other applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies.
B. 
Changes to Copy of Approved Signs. Changes to the copy of approved signs that were legally established and have not been modified to become illegal are exempt from permitting pursuant to this title. Changes to copy do not include changes to the type or level of illumination of an approved sign.
C. 
Noncommercial Signs. Non-commercial signs are allowed wherever commercial signage is permitted and are subject to the same standards and total maximum allowances per site or building of each sign type specified in this chapter. For purposes of this chapter, all non-commercial speech messages will be deemed to be "on-site," regardless of location.
D. 
Message Substitution. A non-commercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any duly permitted commercial message, any non-commercial message may be substituted for any non-commercial message, and any on-site commercial message may be substituted for any on-site commercial message.
1. 
No Additional Approval Required. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval, permitting, registration, or notice to the City. This provision prevents any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over non-commercial speech or favoring any non-commercial message over any other non-commercial message.
2. 
Limitations. This provision does not allow the following:
a. 
Create the right to increase the total amount of signage for a parcel, lot, or land use;
b. 
Affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted;
c. 
Allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device; or
d. 
Authorize the substitution of an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message or in place of a non-commercial message.
E. 
Sign Materials. All signs shall be made of sturdy, durable materials.
1. 
Paper, Cardboard, and Similar Materials. Paper, cardboard, and similar materials subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to temporary signs.
2. 
Fabric. Fabric materials shall be limited to awnings, canopies, flags, and temporary signs.
F. 
Changeable Copy.
1. 
Manual Changeable Copy. Manually changeable copy shall represent no more than 50% of the sign area.
2. 
Automatic Changeable Copy and Electronic Message Center Signs. Electronic Message Center (EMC) signs and automatic changeable copy in which copy can be changed or altered by electric, electromechanical, electronic, or any other artificial energy means, are allowed subject to the following standards.
a. 
Permit Required. All automatic changeable copy and electronic message center signs require Minor Use Permit approval, except service and gas station price signs and time and temperature signs.
b. 
Display Duration. The display shall change no more frequently than once every eight seconds and must have an unlighted interval between copy displays of 0.3 second or more.
c. 
Static Message. Displays shall contain static messages only, and shall not have movement, or the appearance or optical illusion of movement, of any part of the sign structure, design, or pictorial segment of the sign, including the movement or appearance of movement of any illumination, or the flashing, scintillating or varying of light intensity.
d. 
Light Intensity. 0.3 foot-candles over ambient lighting conditions when measured at a distance equal to the square root of 100 times the area of the sign in square feet. All electronic copy must be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and programmed to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions, or that can be adjusted to comply with the 0.3 foot-candle measurements.
e. 
Automatic Controls. All electronic message displays shall be equipped with automatic controls to allow for adjustment of brightness based on ambient lighting conditions.
G. 
Illumination. Illuminated signs shall be designed according to the following standards:
1. 
Illuminated channel letter signs and neon signs are allowed.
2. 
Lighting fixtures used to illuminate an outdoor sign shall be mounted on top of the sign structure, unless approved with a Master Sign Permit.
H. 
Encroachment. Signs mounted on private property may project into or above public property or the public right-of-way only with approval of an encroachment permit.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
This section establishes the types of signs and, where applicable, the total aggregate sign area, allowed per zone.
A. 
Agricultural Zone. Non-residential uses that are the primary use on a site in the Agricultural Zone are allowed the following types of signs with a total aggregate sign area of one foot per eight feet of street frontage and subject to Section 17.29.090, Signage Standards for Specific Sign Types.
1. 
Freestanding signs (Section 17.29.090.B, Freestanding Signs)
2. 
Wall signs (Section 17.29.090.E, Wall Signs)
B. 
Residential Zones.
1. 
Residential Developments. Residential developments of two or more units or lots are allowed the following types of signs with a total aggregate sign area of one square foot per two dwelling units and subject to Section 17.29.090, Signage Standards for Specific Sign Types.
a. 
Freestanding signs (Section 17.29.090.B, Freestanding Signs)
b. 
Wall signs (Section 17.29.090.E, Wall Signs)
2. 
Non-Residential Uses. Non-residential uses that are the primary use on a site in a Residential Zone are allowed following types of signs with a total aggregate sign area of one foot per eight feet of street frontage and subject to Section 17.29.090, Signage Standards for Specific Sign Types.
a. 
Awning and canopy signs (Section 17.29.090.A, Awning and Canopy Signs)
b. 
Freestanding signs (Section 17.29.090.B, Freestanding Signs)
c. 
Projecting and shingle signs (Section 17.29.090.D, Projecting and Shingle Signs)
d. 
Wall signs (Section 17.29.090.E, Wall Signs)
e. 
Window signs (Section 17.29.090.F, Window Signs)
C. 
Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones. The following types of signs are allowed in Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones subject to Section 17.29.090, Signage Standards for Specific Sign Types.
1. 
Awning and canopy signs (Section 17.29.090.A, Awning and Canopy Signs)
2. 
Freestanding signs (Section 17.29.090.B, Freestanding Signs)
3. 
High-rise building identification signs (Section 17.29.090.C, High-Rise Building Identification Signs)
4. 
Projecting and shingle signs (Section 17.29.090.D, Projecting and Shingle Signs)
5. 
Wall signs (Section 17.29.090.E, Wall Signs)
6. 
Window signs (Section 17.29.090.F, Window Signs)
D. 
Employment Zones. The following types of signs are allowed in Employment Zones subject to Section 17.29.090, Signage Standards for Specific Sign Types.
1. 
Awning and canopy signs (Section 17.29.090.A, Awning and Canopy Signs)
2. 
Freestanding signs (Section 17.29.090.B, Freestanding Signs)
3. 
High-rise building identification signs (Section 17.29.090.C, High-Rise Building Identification Signs)
4. 
Wall signs (Section 17.29.090.E, Wall Signs)
5. 
Window signs (Section 17.29.090.F, Window Signs)
E. 
Public and Semi-Public Zones. The following types of signs are allowed in Public and Semi-Public Zones subject to Section 17.29.090, Signage Standards for Specific Sign Types.
1. 
Freestanding signs (Section 17.29.090.B, Freestanding Signs)
2. 
Wall signs (Section 17.29.090.E, Wall Signs).
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
This section establishes standards for specific sign types that apply to all zones where such signs are allowed.
A. 
Awning and Canopy Signs. Signs painted or printed on awnings, canopies, arcades, or similar attachments or structures are subject to the following standards.
1. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area. Awning and canopy signs shall have a maximum allowable sign area of 10 square feet, or 25% of the total awning area, whichever is less.
2. 
Maximum Sign Height. Awning and canopy signs shall have a maximum height of 14 feet.
3. 
Minimum Sign Clearance. Awning and canopy signs shall have a minimum sign clearance of eight feet.
4. 
Maximum Number of Signs. Awning and canopy signs shall be limited to one per each establishment with an entrance or offering services under the awning or canopy.
5. 
Illumination. Awning and canopy signs shall not be illuminated.
FIGURE 17.29.090.A: AWNING AND CANOPY SIGNS
B. 
Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs are subject to the following standards.
1. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area.
a. 
Agricultural and Residential Zones. Six square feet.
b. 
All Other Zones. Freestanding signs shall have a maximum allowable sign area of one-half square foot per linear foot of street property line, up to 200 square feet.
2. 
Maximum Sign Height.
a. 
Agricultural and Residential Zones. Six feet.
b. 
Commercial and Commercial Highway Zones. Freestanding signs in the Commercial and Commercial Highway Zones, except for freeway information signs, shall have a maximum height of 12 feet.
c. 
Mixed-Use Zones. Freestanding signs in the CBD, WF, MU-NC, and MU-C zones, shall have a maximum height of 8 feet.
d. 
Employment and Public and Semi-Public Zones. Eight feet.
3. 
Support Structure. The width of the support structure of freestanding signs shall be least one-third of the width of the sign face. The support structure shall be made of materials present on the façade of the building of the related business.
4. 
Location of Sign. All freestanding signs shall meet visibility requirements pursuant to Section 17.22.160, Visibility at Intersections.
a. 
Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones. Freestanding signs in the Commercial and Mixed-Use Zones shall be set back at least five feet from any street-facing property line, and at least 20 feet from any Residential Zone boundary.
b. 
Employment Zones. Freestanding signs in the Employment Zones shall be set back at least five feet from any street-facing property line, and at least 20 feet from any Residential boundary.
c. 
All Other Zones. Freestanding signs in all other zones shall be set back at least one foot for every foot of sign height.
C. 
High-Rise Building Identification Signs. High-rise building identification signs are allowed on buildings of at least four stories, subject to the following standards.
1. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area. High-rise building identification signs shall have a maximum allowable sign area of one square foot per linear foot of building frontage.
2. 
Location of Sign. High-rise building identification signs shall be located on the upper-most story of the building.
3. 
Maximum Number of Signs. High-rise building identification signs shall be limited to one per building frontage.
FIGURE 17.29.090.C: HIGH-RISE BUILDING IDENTIFICATION SIGNS
D. 
Projecting and Shingle Signs. Signs that project horizontally from the exterior wall of a building or are suspended beneath a marquee, covered walkway, canopy, or awning, are subject to the following standards.
1. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area.
a. 
Agricultural and Residential Zones. Six square feet.
b. 
All Other Zones. Nine square feet.
2. 
Maximum Sign Height. 15 feet.
3. 
Minimum Sign Clearance. Eight feet.
4. 
Maximum Number of Signs. One for each building frontage or tenant space.
5. 
Projection Allowed.
a. 
Projecting Sign. A projecting sign cannot extend more than four feet from the building to which it is attached and must be designed and located so as to cause no harm to street trees. Signs projecting into the public right-of-way are subject to an encroachment permit.
b. 
Shingle Sign. A shingle sign cannot extend further than the outer edge of the marquee, covered walkway, canopy, or awning from which it is suspended.
6. 
Illumination. Projecting and shingle signs shall not be illuminated.
FIGURE 17.29.090.D: PROJECTING AND SHINGLE SIGNS
E. 
Wall Signs. Wall signs include any sign attached to, erected against or painted upon the wall of a building or structure. Wall signs are subject to the following standards.
1. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area. In all cases, wall sign copy shall not occupy more than 20% of the total area of the wall to which the sign is attached.
a. 
Agricultural and Residential Zones. 20 square feet.
b. 
All Other Zones. One square foot per linear foot of street property line building frontage, up to 200 square feet.
2. 
Location of Sign.
a. 
Wall signs shall not be placed higher than the second story of a building.
b. 
Wall signs shall not cover or interrupt major architectural features, including such features as doors, windows, or tile embellishments.
c. 
Wall signs shall not extend higher than the building wall upon which they are attached.
3. 
Maximum Number of Signs. One per building frontage or tenant space.
4. 
Attachment. Wall signs may be attached according to the following standards:
a. 
Attached flat against or pinned away from a building wall, but not extending or protruding more than 15 inches from the wall; or
b. 
Attached to the façade of a building or on a sloping roof (mansard roof), but not extending above the upper edge of the façade or the sloping roof.
FIGURE 17.29.090.E: WALL SIGNS
F. 
Window Signs. Signs painted on or otherwise adhered directly onto a window and signs that block a window in any way are subject to the following standards.
1. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area. 25% of the window area.
2. 
Maximum Sign Height. Window signs shall not be placed on windows higher than the second story.
FIGURE 17.29.090.F: WINDOW SIGNS
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
A. 
Conditional Use Permit Required. Freeway information signs are allowed subject to a Conditional Use Permit approval.
B. 
Maximum Allowable Sign Area. Freeway information signs shall have a maximum allowable sign area of 600 square feet. Any individual business identified by the freeway information sign shall have a maximum sign area of 100 square feet. Any individual parcel shall be limited to 50% of the sign area.
C. 
Maximum Sign Height. Freeway information signs shall have a maximum height of 65 feet.
D. 
Location of Sign. Freeway information signs shall be located within 1,000 feet of the start of the off-ramp to which they apply.
E. 
Maximum Number of Signs. Freeway information signs shall be limited to one per side of a freeway interchange.
F. 
Content of Sign. Freeway information signs shall identify the following:
1. 
Name of the City in which the businesses are located;
2. 
Name of the off-ramp to which they apply; and
3. 
Names of five or more businesses or centers directly served by the off-ramp.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
A. 
Sign Permit Required. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, it is unlawful for any person to affix, place, erect, suspend, attach, construct, structurally or electrically alter (not including a face change of sign copy), move, or display any temporary or permanent sign within the City without first obtaining a sign permit from the Director. No sign permit is required for exempt signs or normal maintenance of a previously approved sign, unless a structural or electrical change is made.
B. 
Application. Application for a permit shall be made upon forms provided by the Planning Division and accompanied by the required fee and application materials showing the following:
1. 
Site plan showing the location and dimensions of existing structures and the relationship of the proposed sign to the existing structures;
2. 
Location, dimension, and design of all existing signs; and
3. 
Location, dimension, and design of proposed sign.
C. 
Review and Decision.
1. 
Upon acceptance of a sign application, the Director shall review the request for compliance with the standards and requirements of this chapter, and with any standards established in a Master Sign Program pursuant to Section 17.29.120, Master Sign Program.
2. 
The Director's decision shall clearly state any conditions of approval or reasons for disapproval and applicable appeal provisions.
D. 
Agreement Required. No sign permit shall be issued, and no sign erected, unless the City and the sign owner have entered into a written agreement ensuring that the sign is erected and maintained in compliance with this chapter. The sign owner shall be solely responsible for all costs associated with construction, maintenance, and the ultimate removal of the sign. The agreement and the sign permit shall be revocable at any time for failure to comply with this chapter or the terms of the agreement, or if the City determines that the sign interferes with the public's safe use of the right-of-way.
E. 
Permit Number Identification. A tag issued by the City indicating the sign permit number shall be affixed to the sign to be readily visible by City staff.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of a Master Sign Program is to provide a method for an applicant to integrate the design and placement of signs within a project with the overall development design to achieve a more unified appearance.
B. 
Applicability. A Master Sign Program shall be required for:
1. 
Projects with four or more non-residential tenants; and
2. 
Projects where five or more signs are proposed for a single building or site.
C. 
Application. A Master Sign Program application shall contain all written and graphic information needed to fully describe the proposed sign program, including the proposed location and dimension of each sign, as well as proposed color schemes, font types, materials, methods of attachment or support, and methods of illumination. A Master Sign Program application shall also include calculation of maximum allowable sign area, and total proposed sign area, for the site.
D. 
Modifications to Sign Standards. A Master Sign Program may provide for modifications from the standards of this chapter.
E. 
Review Authority. All Master Sign Programs are subject to review and approval of the Review Authority for the project with which the signs are associated. A Master Sign Program may be submitted separately or as part of the permit application for the project.
F. 
Required Findings. The Review Authority must make all of the following findings in order to approve a Master Sign Program, in addition to the other applicable regulations in this section. The inability to make one or more of the findings is grounds for denial of an application.
1. 
The proposed signs are compatible in style and character with any building to which the signs are to be attached, any surrounding structures and any adjoining signage on the site;
2. 
Future tenants will be provided with adequate opportunities to construct, erect, or maintain a sign for identification; and
3. 
Directional signage and building addressing are adequate for pedestrian and vehicular circulation and emergency vehicle access.
G. 
Lessees to Be Informed of Master Sign Program. Lessees within developments subject to the requirements of an approved Master Sign Program shall be made aware of the Master Sign Program in their lease.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
A. 
Continuance and Maintenance. Reasonable and routine maintenance and repairs may be performed on signs that are nonconforming provided there is no expansion of any nonconformity.
B. 
Abandonment of Nonconforming Sign. Whenever a nonconforming sign has been abandoned, or the use of the property has been discontinued for a continuous period of 90 days, the nonconforming sign must be removed.
C. 
Restoration of a Damaged Sign. A nonconforming sign may be restored if it meets either of the following criteria:
1. 
A sign with damage that does not exceed 50% of the total sign area, including hardware and attachments, provided that the repairs start within 60 days of the date of damage and are diligently pursued to completion.
2. 
A sign that is a danger to the public or is unsafe as determined by the Building Official.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
Each sign displayed within the City, including exempt signs, shall be maintained to comply with the following standards:
A. 
Graffiti on a sign shall be removed within two days of notice of its placement on such sign.
B. 
The display upon any sign area of a sign shall be maintained in good condition, without rips, tears, and similar damage.
C. 
All parts, portions, units and materials composing a sign, together with the frame, background, surface, support or enclosure therefore shall be maintained in a safe condition, painted, and adequately protected from weathering with all braces, bolts and structural parts and supporting frames and fastenings reasonably free from deterioration, rot, rust, and loosening so that they do not create a hazard to persons or property or constitute a nuisance.
D. 
Any sign or sign structure that is sagging, leaning, fallen, decayed, broken, deteriorated, or other dilapidated condition shall be promptly repaired, to the satisfaction of the City, or removed.
E. 
Whenever any sign, by virtue of its physical nature and condition, poses an immediate and serious threat to the public safety, the sign may be removed by City personnel, or its physical deficiency cured, to the extent necessary to protect the public safety. The cost of such removal or repair shall be assessed against the sign owner.
F. 
An on-premises sign identifying an activity, business, service or product shall be removed within 30 days following the actual discontinuance of the activity, business, service or product. If the sign is not so removed, the Director may have the sign removed in accordance with the public nuisance abatement provisions of this title.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)
Signs that do not conform to the provisions of this chapter and are erected after its effective date without obtaining required permits thereby are declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance. All violations of this chapter shall be subject to enforcement remedies, penalties, and abatement as provided by Chapter 17.46, Enforcement, and Title 19, Nuisance Abatement Code, of the municipal code.
(Ord. 19-1 § 3)