The provisions set forth in this chapter shall apply in all zoning districts of the city, except where expressly stated otherwise. No sign shall be erected or maintained anywhere in the city except in conformity with this chapter.
(Ord. 1598)
The sign area of the following signs shall not be included in the maximum area of signs permitted for any site or use:
A.
Address Signs. Required address identification signs that are in conformance with the building code.
B.
Change of Business Signs. A temporary attachment or covering of wood, plastic, or canvas over a permanent sign indicating a change of ownership or activity may be displayed for no longer than 30 days following the change of ownership or activity for which the sign is intended. The sign shall be no larger than the previously permitted permanent sign.
C.
Construction Signs. A temporary construction sign may be erected on a construction site for the duration of construction activities provided that it is immediately removed after issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion for the project, or abandonment of work. A temporary construction sign may not exceed 32 square feet in area or 8 feet in height within commercial, mixed-use, or other nonresidential zones or 6 square feet in area or 5 feet in height within residential zones.
D.
Interior Signs. Signs that are located in interior areas of a building or site, more than 3 feet from a storefront window, and are not visible from public streets or adjacent properties. For the purpose of this regulation, "visible" means legible to a person of ordinary eyesight (with vision adequate to pass a state driver's license exam) standing at ground level at a location on the public right-of-way or other private property.
E.
Official Government Signs. Official notices issued by a court, public body or office; official notices posted by a utility or other quasi-public agency; signs erected by a governmental body to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic; or other signs required or authorized by law.
F.
Commemorative Signs. Commemorative plaques, memorial signs or tablets, or signs indicating names of buildings and dates of building erection, either attached to or cut into the surfaces of buildings, provided that no such sign exceeds 3 square feet in area.
G.
Parking and Directional Signs. On-site parking and directional signs not exceeding 5 square feet in area and limited to directional messages such as entrance/exit locations or instructions to direct on-site traffic circulation.
H.
Informational Signs. Noncommercial informational signs located wholly on private property not exceeding 2 square feet in area erected for the immediate convenience of the public, such as signs identifying rest rooms, public telephones, walkways, and similar features or facilities.
I.
Time and Temperature Devices. Time and temperature devices, not exceeding 6 square feet and not higher than permitted signs, located wholly on private property and bearing no commercial message.
J.
On-Site Real Estate Signs. On-premises signs conveying information about the sale, rental, or lease of the appurtenant lot, premises, dwelling, or structure, provided that they comply with the following standards:
1.
No more than one real estate sign per public street frontage per lot is displayed at any one time;
2.
The sign or signs do not exceed the following size restrictions:
3.
The sign or signs are not illuminated; and
4.
The sign or signs are removed within 7 days after the sale, lease, or rental of the property has been completed.
K.
Vehicle Signs. Signs painted, stenciled or similarly affixed to the surface of vehicles.
L.
Window Signs. Window signs, subject to the following provisions:
1.
In residential zones and on residential properties, window signs not exceeding 20% of the area of window and transparent door frontage on any building façade, and subject to the requirements of Section 11.4.25.030: Signs—Residential Districts.
2.
In commercial and mixed-use zones, window signs not exceeding 20% of the area of window and transparent door frontage on any building façade. Any sign either hung within 3 feet of a window or attached to a display located within 3 feet of a window is considered a window sign. See paragraph 11.4.25.025.D.10: Main Street Specific Plan District—Additional Requirements, for additional requirements. See also subsection 11.4.25.010.D: Interior Signs.
M.
Barber Poles. Barber poles not exceeding 6 feet in height, located wholly on commercial private property and bearing no lettering.
N.
Newspaper Stands. Signs that are part of newspaper stands, provided the sign area does not exceed 6 square feet.
O.
Decorative Holiday Displays. Noncommercial decorative holiday displays, provided that such displays are removed within 45 days of their installation.
P.
Bus Shelter and Bus Bench Signs. Signs on a public bus bench, public bus shelter, or any waste bin attached to a public bus bench or public bus shelter, which convey a commercial message as their primary purpose and that are authorized by a contract or franchise agreement with the applicable transit agency.
(Ord. 1598)
The following types of signs, materials, designs, messages, and locations are prohibited:
A.
Banners, Streamers, or Pennants. Banners, streamers, pennants, and other signs made of lightweight fabric or similar material, or designed to rotate or move with the wind, except where expressly provided for in this chapter. See also Section 11.4.25.020: Temporary Banners. Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter to the contrary, banners may be posted or otherwise affixed upon fences located at public schools. A permit shall not be required for such banners affixed upon fences located at public schools.
B.
Emissions. Signs that produce noise or sounds that can be heard at the property line, excluding voice units at menu boards, and signs that emit visible smoke, vapor, particles, or odor.
C.
Animated and Moving Signs. Signs which incorporate any manner of animation, flashing, moving, or intermittent lighting. Moreover, sign illumination shall not blink, flutter, or change light intensity, brightness, or color. Revolving, or other similar signs or signs with visibly moving or rotating parts or visible mechanical movement of any kind, either adjacent to or as an integral part of the display are also prohibited.
D.
Signs Creating Traffic Hazards.
1.
Signs located in such a manner as to constitute a traffic hazard or obstruct the view of any authorized traffic sign or signal device, or signs that may be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal, or device; or which makes use of the words "stop," "look," "danger," or any other word, phrase, symbol, or character that interferes with, misleads, or confuses vehicular drivers in their use of roads.
2.
Signs within 5 feet of a fire hydrant, street sign, or traffic signal if such placement could create a safety hazard.
3.
Signs placed or fixed so as to create obstruction, interference, or injury to passerby, residents, or occupants.
E.
Off-Premises Signs. Off premises signs, as defined in Chapter 11.6.05: Terms and Definitions, except signs on a public bus bench, public bus shelter, or any waste bin attached to a public bus bench or public bus shelter which convey a commercial message as their primary purpose and are authorized by a contract or franchise agreement with the applicable transit agency.
F.
Roof Signs.
1.
Attached signs that extend above the roof line or parapet (whichever is higher) of a building with a flat roof.
2.
Attached signs that extend above the eave line of a building with a sloped, gambrel, gable or hip roof.
3.
Attached signs that extend above the deck line of a mansard roof, whether real or simulated.
4.
Signs on rooftop structures, such as penthouse walls or mechanical enclosures.
5.
However, signs that do not extend above the eave line of a sloped, gambrel, gable, or hip roof, that do not extend above the deck line of a mansard roof, that do not extend above the parapet (or the roofline if no parapet is present) of a flat roof are permitted subject to the standards of Section 11.4.25.025: Signs—Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Other Nonresidential Districts. See Figure 11.4.25.015.F: Roof Signs.
Figure 11.4.25.015.F Roof Signs  |
G.
Signs in Right-of-Way. No sign, or supporting sign structure, may be erected in the public right-of-way, with the exception of:
1.
Legal notices which are required by law to be placed upon public property to provide notice to the public;
2.
Signs erected by a governmental body to promote public safety or direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
3.
Public holiday lights and displays;
4.
Signs and banners posted by the city above streets or attached to lamp posts or utility poles, which promote city-sponsored events;
5.
Commercial signs on public bus benches and public bus shelters, which convey a commercial message as their primary purpose, as specifically authorized by a contract or franchise agreement with the applicable transit agency;
6.
Noncommercial bus stop signs erected by a public transit agency; and
7.
Projecting signs that are attached to a building and project over the public sidewalk but provide at least 8 feet of clearance above the sidewalk. See also subparagraph 11.4.25.025.D.10.b: Projecting Signs.
Any sign located in a public right-of-way or projecting over a public sidewalk shall be placed only in a manner consistent with standards promulgated by the city engineer. |
(Ord. 1598)
In addition to any other signs permitted by this chapter, temporary banners are permitted on private property in the Limited Commercial/Residential Medium Density zone (LC/RMD), Professional Office (PO), Service Commercial (SC), Main Street Specific Plan (MSSP), and General Commercial (GC) districts as follows:
A.
Permit Requirement. A "Temporary Banner Permit" shall be obtained from the director each time a banner(s) is to be displayed. A permit for a banner will allow one banner for each face of a building that fronts a street or parking area. The application fee for a permit to display a banner shall be set forth in the master fee schedule.
B.
Banner Display Periods. Banners shall be permitted for a period not to exceed 90 days per calendar year. Banners shall not be displayed longer than 30 days in succession; with a period of not less than 14 days between the times a banner is displayed by the same property.
C.
Banner Size. The size of a banner shall not exceed one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage, or 30 square feet maximum. A banner for a business or organization fronting, or adjacent to, a street with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or more shall be permitted an additional 0.5 square foot per lineal foot of frontage, not to exceed 45 square feet total for the banner.
D.
Day Glow Colors Prohibited. No banner utilizing luminescent/day glow colors may be installed.
E.
Not Substitute for a Permanent Sign. The posting of a temporary banner shall not substitute for a permanent sign.
F.
Obstruction Prohibited. A banner(s) shall be permitted only if its display does not obstruct the view of any adjoining buildings, or any signs, permanent or temporary, connected with adjoining buildings.
G.
Allowable Locations. Banners shall be permitted to be mounted on the fascia or wall only. Banners shall not be permitted on the roofs of buildings or over a public right-of-way, excepting on legally permitted overhangs of the public right-of-way when the banner provides a minimum head clearance of 8 feet.
H.
Banner Maintenance. Banners shall be tightly secured. Torn or damaged banners shall either be immediately replaced or removed entirely.
I.
Banner Removal. The applicant shall bring the banner to the city for review in conjunction with the application form. The removal date shall be affixed/marked to the banner by the director. If the removal date of a banner is removed or otherwise tampered with, the banner permit shall be deemed expired and the banner shall be immediately removed.
J.
Fee Exemptions. Fees for temporary banner use shall apply to commercial signs only. A noncommercial banner, on private property (i.e., a Red Cross blood drive, etc.) shall be exempt from the application and deposit fees set forth above.
K.
City-Sponsored Banners. This section shall not apply to city-sponsored banners hung over public rights-of-way. See paragraph 11.4.25.025.D.7: City Sponsored Banners for regulations.
(Ord. 1598)
The regulations of this section apply to signs located in commercial, mixed-use, public/semipublic, open space, and any other nonresidential districts.
A.
Allowable Signs Per Commercial Activity and Per Shopping Center Location—LC/RMD, PO, MSSP, SC, GC, LM and OE Districts. The aggregate area of all signs on a single building activity and at a shopping center, excluding exempt signs pursuant to Section 11.4.25.010: Exempt Signs, shall not exceed the following standards.
1.
Temporary Noncommercial Signs. Temporary non-commercial signs that do not exceed an aggregate surface area of 25 square feet per lot, up to 4 per lot. Signs posted on a building face or in a window shall not exceed 36 inches by 48 inches in size. Temporary noncommercial signs shall be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement.
2.
Shopping Center Identification Signs. For each shopping center, identification signs are permitted as follows:
a.
One freestanding or pole identification sign containing the name and logo of the center. Sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height and not to exceed 60 square feet on one face of a double-faced sign.
b.
One monument sign not to exceed 10 square feet in area and not to exceed 4 feet in height at each traffic entrance to the center, in no case shall more than 4 monument signs be placed in any shopping center.
3.
Commercial Business Activity Signs. Each commercial activity may have signing identifying the activity on the premises as follows:
a.
One sign per building face which is visible from streets or parking lot area. Such sign to be fascia or wall sign.
b.
Size of fascia or wall sign shall be one square foot per lineal foot of building face, not to exceed 100 square feet per sign.
c.
In lieu of one or more fascia or wall signs, one freestanding or pole sign not to exceed 15 feet in overall height may be erected on the parcel or building site on which the building is located. Maximum size of sign shall not exceed 60 square feet per face of a double faced sign.
d.
In case of buildings having less than 25 linear feet of frontage on a street, 25 square feet of signing is permitted.
e.
In cases where a business is located on a street with a speed limit of 35 mph or more, a freestanding sign or larger fascia or wall sign will be permitted. The larger sign may be an additional 0.5 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage not to exceed 80 additional square feet. (See subparagraphs a, b, c, above.) The maximum sign area per sign of 100 square feet does not apply in this case.
f.
No more than 2 items of information will be permitted per sign. An example of one item of information would be the name of the business, specialty item, unique service, etc.
4.
Provisions Not Applicable with Adopted Planned Sign Program. When property falls under an adopted planned sign program the above provisions do not apply.
B.
Special Situations—Sign Area Calculations. In the special situations listed below, sign area is calculated as follows.
1.
Sites with Multiple Frontages. On sites with more than one frontage on a public street, maximum permitted sign area shall be calculated as follows:
a.
Where an interior lot fronts on 2 streets (a "through lot"), both the front and rear lot lines may be used for calculating the allowable sign area.
b.
Where a lot has 3 or more frontages on a public street, the length of only 2 contiguous sides, one of which shall be the principal street frontage, shall be added together to determine allowable sign area.
2.
Multiple-Occupancy Commercial Sites with Limited Frontage. Where a commercial site for which a master sign program is required pursuant to Section 11.4.25.045: Procedures for Sign Approval, has a land area in excess of 2 acres and public street frontage equal to 20% or less of the perimeter measurement of the site, the maximum allowable sign area for the site may be calculated as one square foot of sign area per one lineal foot of public street frontage, plus one lineal foot of exterior building walls fronting on driveways and parking lots that are generally used for public access and are located on the same site. Pedestrian-only passageways that are lined on both sides by building walls shall be considered interior spaces, and the area of signs on such walls shall not be included in the calculation of the maximum allowable sign area for the site.
C.
Permitted Sign Types. Permitted sign types are listed in Table 11.4.25.025.A: Standards for Signs in Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Other Nonresidential Districts and defined in Chapter 6.05: Terms and Definitions, under "Sign Types." The signs erected on a site may be any combination of permitted sign types, subject to the limitations for individual sign types listed in this section and any other provisions of this chapter.
D.
Standards for Specific Sign Types. Signs shall conform to the standards listed in Table 11.4.25.025.A: Standards for Signs in Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Other Nonresidential Districts, as well as any additional standards.
Table 11.4.25.025.A STANDARDS FOR SIGNS IN COMMERCIAL, MIXED-USE, AND OTHER NONRESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sign Type | Maximum Number Permitted | Maximum Area per Individual Sign | Maximum Height | Maximum Horizontal Projection from Wall or Supporting Structure | Additional Regulations (Subsection) |
Wall Sign | 1 per building wall. Maximum of 2 per site | See Section 11.4.25.025.A and Section 11.4.25.025.B. | Roof line | 12 in. | (8)(10) |
Projecting Sign | 1 per street frontage | See below | See below | See below | (1)(8)(10) |
Located below canopy or awning | 6 sq. ft. | Roof line | 5 ft. | (1)(8)(10) | |
Not located below canopy or awning | 10 sq. ft. | 20 ft. | 5 ft. | (1)(8)(10) | |
Freestanding Sign | See below | ||||
Pole Sign | 1 for each site with over 100 feet of lot width | 60 sq. ft. | 15 ft. | NA | (2)(8)(10) |
Monument Sign | Maximum 4 per site with over 100 feet of lot width | 60 sq. ft. | 5 ft. | (2)(8) | (10) |
Roof Sign | |||||
On Flat Roof | 1 per building | See Section 11.4.25.025.A and Section 11.4.25.025.B. | Roof line or parapet (whichever is higher) | (8) | |
On Sloped, Gambrel, Gable, or Hip Roof | 1 per building | See Section 11.4.25.025.A and Section 11.4.25.025.B. | Eave line | (8) | |
On Mansard Roof (real or simulated) | 1 per building | See Section 11.4.25.025.A and Section 11.4.25.025.B. | Deck line | (8) | |
Awning or Canopy Sign | 1 per awning; Maximum 3 awning signs per tenant/use | See Section 11.4.25.025.A and Section 11.4.25.025.B | Top of awning or canopy | 6 in. | (3)(8) |
Permanent Window | N/A | 10% - 20% of window area | Limited to first and second floor windows | N/A | (4)(10) |
Marquee Sign | 1 per building | See Section 11.4.25.025.A and Section 11.4.25.025.B. | Roof line, or up to 6 feet above roof line with minor use permit approval. | 6 in. | (5) |
Portable A-Frame Sign | 1 per tenant/use | 8 sq. ft. | (6) (10) | ||
City Sponsored Banners | Subject to Director approval. | (7) | |||
Flags | 1 per lot frontage | 12 sq. ft. | If on flag poles, 40 ft. maximum and not less than 12 ft. | N/A | (9) |
Note: With limited exceptions, the maximum permitted aggregate area of all signage on a site is one square foot of sign per lineal foot of building frontage, per subsection 11.4.25.025.A. |
2.
Freestanding Signs.
a.
Minimum Setback from Property Line. Freestanding signs must be set back a minimum of 5 feet from any property line.
b.
Limitations in Driveway Median. Freestanding signs erected in a median within a driveway shall be set back a minimum of 5 feet from the face of the curb surrounding the median, or from the edge of adjacent pavement where no curb exists, and shall not interfere with driver visibility.
3.
Awning or Canopy Signs.
a.
Location. Awning and canopy signs are permitted only on the first and second floor of buildings. Awnings and canopies shall not cover transom windows or historic building elements. Awnings and canopies shall be aligned with windows and entries.
b.
Minimum Clearance. Awnings and canopies shall be located a minimum of 8 feet above grade, measured from the lowest structural element of the awning or canopy.
c.
Non-Functional Awnings or Canopies. Awnings and canopies that project less than 2 feet from the building façade to which they are attached, or do not overhang a sidewalk or pedestrian walkway, are considered non-functional awnings or canopies. When signage is attached to or incorporated into non-functional awnings or canopies, the entire surface area of the face of the awning shall be considered the sign area.
4.
Permanent Window Signs. Permanent window signs are permitted subject to the following standards:
a.
Permanent window signs shall not exceed 10% of the area of each window.
b.
No window sign shall be displayed above the second story.
c.
Permanent window signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. White, black or gold leaf paint are recommended colors. Glass-mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre-spaced vinyl die-cut forms.
d.
Interior permanent signs within 3 feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a permanent window sign.
e.
Permanent window signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs.
f.
Permanent window signs shall not be illuminated.
5.
Marquee Signs.
a.
Uses Allowed On. Marquee signs are allowed for theaters, cinemas, stadiums, auditoriums, or other public assembly facilities.
b.
Height. Subject to review and approval of a minor use permit pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits, a vertically-oriented marquee sign may project up to 6 feet above the roof line. The planning commission shall only approve a marquee sign extending above the roofline if the commission finds that the marquee sign is architecturally integrated with the building.
7.
City Sponsored Banners.
a.
City-issued banners that identify the city or specific commercial districts or promote city-sponsored events may be posted by the city above streets or attached to lamp posts or utility poles.
b.
Banners shall be anchored on at least 2 opposite sides and shall be attached to light poles or similar permanent structures.
c.
Banners located in the right-of-way shall be placed only in a manner consistent with standards promulgated by the city engineer.
8.
Signs—Automobile Service and Repair Stations.
a.
Total signing for subparagraphs b, c, e and f of this paragraph 8 shall not exceed 150 square feet of area.
b.
A freestanding identification signs not to exceed 20 feet in overall height and not to exceed 80 square feet in area or a monument sign not to exceed 5 feet in overall height and not to exceed 60 square feet in area.
c.
Fuel price signs not to exceed 3 feet by 4 feet in size and not to exceed 15 feet in overall height; minimum height 8 feet. Fuel price signs shall comply with the requirements of the State Business and Professions Code.
d.
Information signs (self-service, full-service, etc.) not to exceed 24 inches by 24 inches in size and 2 per pump island. Signs required for safety and required by other governmental agencies shall be reviewed by the director for consistency with the intent of this section.
e.
Two promotional banners, each not to exceed 20 square feet per face, may be located on the building structure on the premises.
f.
Advertising signs not related to motor vehicles shall not exceed 50 square feet in area and shall be attached to the building or permanently mounted sign structure.
g.
In addition to any other applicable design criteria, signs for service stations shall only be approved if the review authority finds that the proposed signs are in architectural harmony with the total service station design theme.
9.
Flags.
a.
Each use may display a total of one flag per lot frontage.
b.
No flag displayed pursuant to this subsection shall exceed 12 square feet in area unless approved through a minor use permit pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits.
c.
Flags shall be suspended from flagpoles at a height of not less than 12 feet or more than 40 feet.
d.
Flags poles and related structures designed to display a flag require a building permit, and must comply with other regulations of the applicable zoning districts.
10.
Main Street Specific Plan District—Additional Requirements. Within the Main Street Specific Plan district the following additional sign requirements apply.
a.
Courtyard Signs. Courtyard signs are permitted subject to the following standards:
i.
Where businesses face a courtyard, and do not directly face Main Street, one single-faced or double-faced freestanding courtyard sign is permitted for tenant identification only, in addition to those on the building.
ii.
No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 7 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign.
iii.
The total area of the courtyard sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of site street frontage or 20 square feet, whichever is smaller.
iv.
Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 2 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway.
v.
Each courtyard sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right-of-way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area.
b.
Projecting Signs. Projecting signs are permitted subject to the following standards:
i.
Shall not exceed 4 square feet in area per side;
ii.
Shall project no more than 4 feet from the wall to which attached;
iii.
Shall be located at least 8 feet but not more than 12 feet above grade;
iv.
Shall reflect the business by incorporating symbols or logos of the business;
v.
Shall have supports and brackets that are compatible with the design and scale of the sign; and
vi.
Shall not be internally or externally illuminated.
vii.
Each ground-level occupancy frontage may have one such projecting sign if such sign is located near its primary entryway. Such sign shall be in addition to other signs allowed in Table 11.4.25.025.A: Standards for Signs in Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Other Nonresidential Districts, above.
viii.
No sign shall project into any public right-of-way unless the director of public works shall have first issued an encroachment permit therefor.
c.
Monument Signs. One single-faced or double-faced freestanding monument sign is permitted subject to the following standards where the face of the building is set back from the property line more than 15 feet:
i.
No part of the sign shall extend over public property or have a height exceeding 5 feet measured from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign.
ii.
The total area of the sign shall not exceed 0.5 square feet per foot of street frontage or 40 square feet, whichever is smaller.
iii.
Signs shall be located in a landscape planter a minimum of 2 feet wider than the sign itself, with a minimum 2-foot wide base for the monument sign itself.
iv.
Placement shall conform with a minimum setback of 3 feet from a street property line, 3 feet from an interior property line, and a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of a driveway.
v.
Landscaping with automatic sprinklers shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign, or 75 square feet, whichever is greater.
vi.
If the sign is to be lit, all lighting shall be from internal illumination.
vii.
Each monument sign shall contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of 6 inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right-of-way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowable sign area.
d.
Restaurant Menu Signs. Restaurant menu signs and similar display box signs are permitted subject to the following standards:
i.
Shall be located in a permanently mounted display box on the surface of the building adjacent to the entry.
ii.
The allowable area shall be a maximum of 6 square feet and shall be limited to the size of 2 pages.
iii.
Such sign shall be compatible with the scale, colors, and materials of the storefront.
iv.
Such sign shall not be used for additional business identification or additional signage.
v.
Such sign shall not be included in the sign area calculation for the business.
e.
Permanent Window Signs. Permanent window signs are permitted subject to the following standards:
i.
Permanent window signs shall not exceed 20% of the area of each window.
ii.
No window sign shall be displayed above the second story.
iii.
Permanent window signs shall be limited to individual letters placed on the interior surface of the window and intended to be viewed from the outside. White, black or gold leaf paint are recommended colors. Glass-mounted graphic logos may be applied by silk screening or pre-spaced vinyl die-cut forms.
iv.
Interior permanent signs within 3 feet of a storefront window shall be counted as a permanent window sign.
v.
Permanent window signs shall be allowed in addition to the aggregate sign area allowed for wall and projecting signs.
vi.
Permanent window signs shall not be illuminated, except for neon signs illuminated in compliance with subparagraph 11.4.25.025.D.10.f.vi, below.
f.
Neon Signs. Neon signs are permitted subject to the following standards:
i.
Neon signs and linear tubing shall be UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed with a maximum 30 milliamps per circuit and shall be designed to accommodate a dimmer in order to reduce the brightness of the neon.
ii.
The neon manufacturer shall be registered with Underwriters Laboratories.
iii.
Neon tubing shall not exceed 0.5 inches in diameter.
iv.
Neon lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed 0.5 footcandle measured at the property line.
v.
Neon tubing shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., highly-glazed tiles, mirrors, polished metal), or other similar material.
vi.
Interior neon signs placed within 5 feet of a storefront window shall have a transparent background and shall be counted as a permanent window sign.
g.
Temporary Window Signs. Temporary window signs are permitted subject to the following standards:
i.
Combinations of permanent and temporary window signs shall not cover more than 30% of any window (50% during December).
ii.
No more than 1 temporary window sign is allowed per window.
iii.
Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 3 times per calendar year.
iv.
Commercial temporary window signs shall not be posted more than 30 days for each period.
v.
A temporary sign permit approval is required to post commercial temporary window signs.
h.
Portable A-Frame Signs. Portable A-frame signs shall comply with the following standards:
i.
A portable A-frame sign is only permitted where building frontage is located within 10 feet of a public sidewalk.
ii.
A portable A-frame sign shall be located so as to allow at least 6 feet clear for pedestrian passage along a pedestrian walkway and shall not be located on public property.
iii.
Compliance with all provisions of the "City of Seal Beach Standards for Portable A-Frame Signs."
i.
Sign Illumination. Sign illumination is subject to the following standards:
i.
Internal illumination is permitted on monument signs, channel letters and channel logos only.
ii.
Signs without channel letters and channel logos shall only be externally illuminated.
iii.
The permitted range of sign illumination shall be between 5 and 20 candelas per square foot of sign area, except for business properties that have property frontage on Pacific Coast Highway where a maximum of 70 candelas/square foot is permitted.
iv.
Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and public rights-of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than one footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source.
v.
A luminance report shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the director within 90 days of the installation of any internal or external illuminated sign indicating compliance with subparagraphs (iii) and (iv), above. Such report shall include the method of measurement, results of such measurement, and, if the measurement exceeded the provisions of subparagraph (iii) above, the actions taken and resulting measurement information to achieve compliance with such subparagraph (iii).
j.
Outlining of Buildings or Components. Outlining of buildings or components of buildings (i.e., doorways, windows, rooflines, architectural features, etc.) by string lighting shall not be considered sign illumination, but shall be approved through the minor use permit process pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits. See also Section 11.4.25.010: Exempt Signs; Subsection O: Decorative Holiday Displays.
k.
Additional Review. Additional review is required as set forth below:
i.
A conditional use permit pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits, shall be required for the signage for a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 2 or 3 separate tenant spaces. In making its determination, the commission shall consider such factors as the size, location and design of the proposed signs; the type of businesses to which the signs will pertain; the architectural character of the site and surrounding buildings; and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the site.
ii.
A planned sign program shall be required for the signage of a new structure, or a conversion of an existing structure into separate tenant spaces, that will establish or create 4 or more separate tenant spaces, pursuant to Section 11.4.25.045: Procedures for Sign Approval, and Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits.
iii.
When property falls under an adopted planned sign program, the above subparagraphs 10.a through 10.i, and the provisions of Table 11.4.25.025.A: Standards for Signs in Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Other Nonresidential Districts, do not apply.
E.
LM and OE Districts. The following signs are permitted in the LM and OE districts:
1.
All signing permitted in Table 11.4.25.025.A: Standards for Signs in Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Other Nonresidential Districts, with the same restrictions for wall, freestanding, and awning or canopy signs.
2.
For each industrial complex or industrial park, one monument sign not to exceed 10 feet in height and not to exceed 100 square feet per face shall be permitted at the entrance of a dedicated street. Such sign shall identify the industrial complex or industrial park.
3.
In the OE district one monument identification sign on each dedicated street shall be permitted. Such sign shall not exceed 8 feet in height and shall not exceed 40 square feet per face and the sign shall identify the facility and company operating the site.
F.
RG District. The following signs shall be permitted in the RG district: Monument or ground signs containing the name of the facility. Such sign not to exceed 60 square feet per face or exceed 6 feet in height. One sign shall be permitted at each entrance to the facility from a dedicated street.
G.
Substitution of Sign Message. Any of the permitted sign types authorized by this section, with the exception of signs placed at public bus benches and bus shelters and city banners, may contain non-commercial copy in lieu of any other copy.
(Ord. 1598)
A.
Permitted Signs. In addition to the exempt signs listed in Section 11.4.25.010: Exempt Signs, the following signs are permitted in residential zones:
1.
Subdivision Identification Signs. A subdivision in a residential district shall be permitted to display a subdivision identification sign or signs not exceeding 25 square feet in aggregate area. Such sign(s) must be attached to a wall, fence, or gateway structure, and integrated with the design of the structure. Larger signs may be approved by minor use permit pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits.
2.
Flags/Flagpoles. Each site may contain no more than 2 flagpoles not to exceed 25 feet in height above grade. Flags may only be displayed on a flagpole. The cumulative area of all flags on a property shall not exceed 40 square feet or contain commercial copy. Flags on temporary flagpoles shall be included in a site's overall flag area calculation.
3.
Commercial Signs. One sign indicating the presence on the property of an approved use subject to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits. Such sign shall not exceed 12 square feet in area, unless a greater area is specifically approved by the decision-making authority as part of the use permit approval.
B.
Illumination. No sign governed by this section shall be internally illuminated.
(Ord. 1598; Ord. 1689)
A.
Temporary Noncommercial Signs—Residential Districts and Uses. Up to 4 temporary non-commercial signs, each no larger than 6 square feet in area, are permitted per dwelling unit. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no more than 4 such signs are permitted to be located in the front yard or street-facing side yard of any residential property, whether single-unit, two-unit, or multi-unit. Temporary noncommercial signs may be attached to freestanding sign structures no more than 5 feet in height, building walls, or fences. Temporary noncommercial signs must be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement.
B.
Large Distributions. Any person wishing to distribute more than 50 temporary noncommercial signs to property owners in the city must first apply for and receive a permit from the director. The permit application shall contain an actual-sized prototype of the sign and the name, address, and telephone number where the applicant may be reached by the director or police chief or the respective deputies responsible for the enforcement of these provisions. The permit application shall be approved unless the sign does not meet the requirements set forth in this chapter. The decision to grant or deny a permit shall be made within one business day after submission of the application. One permit shall govern all signs of each type distributed to property owners in the city.
C.
Temporary Non-Commercial Signs—Commercial, Mixed-Use and Other Nonresidential Districts and Uses. Temporary noncommercial signs meeting the requirements of this chapter are permitted in commercial, mixed-use, and other nonresidential districts. Temporary noncommercial signs must be removed or replaced within 60 days of placement, and each sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in sign area. For properties not subject to a master sign program, the maximum number of temporary noncommercial signs per property at a time shall be 4 signs.
D.
Temporary Commercial Signs—Permit Required. Temporary commercial signs meeting the requirements of this chapter may be displayed with a permit from the director on nonresidential properties in commercial and industrial zones. Temporary commercial signs shall be displayed for a period of time not to exceed 30 days, or a shorter period determined by the director based on the length of time of the use or activity, or as specified by this section. The provisions contained in Section 11.4.25.045: Procedures for Sign Approval, shall apply to temporary commercial signs. No more than one commercial temporary sign shall be permitted and no such sign shall be more than 32 square feet in sign area. A maximum of 3 such signs may be permitted on any site per year.
E.
Owner/Occupant Consent Required. No temporary commercial sign shall be placed, erected or maintained without the authorization of the property owner or occupant.
F.
Off-Premises Signs Prohibited. All temporary commercial signs shall be on-premises signs.
(Ord. 1598)
A.
Calculation of Sign Area. The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows.
1.
Single-Faced Signs. Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags. The calculation of sign area for various types of single-faced signs is illustrated in Figure 11.4.25.040.A.1: Calculation of Sign Area.
Figure 11.4.25.040.A.1 Calculation of Sign Area  |
2.
Double-Faced Signs. Where 2 faces of a double-faced sign are located 2 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 shall be computed as the area of one face. Where the 2 faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used. Where 2 faces of a double-faced sign are located more than 2 feet or 45 degrees from each other, both sign faces shall be counted toward sign area. See Figure 11.4.25.040.A.2: Measurement of Double-Faced Signs.
Figure 11.4.25.040.A.2 Measurement of Double-Faced Signs  |
3.
Multi-Faced Signs. On a 3-faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the area of 2 faces (the largest and smallest face) shall be summed to determine sign area. In all other situations involving a sign with 3 or more sides, sign area shall be calculated as the sum of all faces.
4.
Three-Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), shall have a sign area of the sum of all areas using the 4 vertical sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign. See Figure 11.4.25.040.A.4: Measurement of Three-Dimensional Signs.
Figure 11.4.25.040.A.4 Measurement of Three-Dimensional Signs  |
B.
Materials. Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to signs displayed for no more than 60 days. Fabric signs shall be restricted to city banners, awning signs, and temporary banners permitted pursuant to Section 11.4.25.020: Temporary Banners, above.
C.
Illumination. The illumination of signs, from either an internal or external source, shall be designed to avoid negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. See also Section 11.4.10.020.A: Lighting. The following standards shall apply to all illuminated signs:
D.
Illumination, Main Street Specific Plan District. The illumination of signs within the Main Street Specific Plan District shall comply with the following standards.
1.
Internal illumination is permitted on monument signs, channel letters and channel logos only.
2.
Signs without channel letters and channel logos shall only be externally illuminated.
3.
The permitted range of sign illumination shall be between 5 and 20 candelas per square foot of sign area, except for business properties that have property frontage on Pacific Coast Highway where a maximum of 70 candelas/square foot is permitted.
4.
Lighting shall be energy efficient, and shielded or recessed so that direct glare and reflections are confined to the maximum extent feasible within the boundaries of the site, and shall be directed downward and away from adjoining properties and public rights-of way. No lighting on private property shall produce an illumination level greater than one footcandle on any property within a residential zoning district except on the site of the light source.
5.
A luminance report shall be prepared by a licensed engineer and submitted to the director of development services within 90 days of the installation of any internal or external illuminated sign indicating compliance with paragraphs 3 and 4 of this subsection. Such report shall include the method of measurement, results of such measurement, and, if the measurement exceeded the provisions of paragraph 3 above, the actions taken and resulting measurement information to achieve compliance with such paragraph 3.
E.
Changeable Copy. Changeable copy shall cover no more than 20% of the total sign area, except for the following uses which are allowed up to 75% of sign area to be changeable copy: all public and civic uses, indoor theaters, other public assembly uses, and fuel price signs.
F.
Code Compliance. Signs erected, installed, located or maintained in the city must comply with all applicable structural provisions of the most recently adopted versions of the Uniform Sign Code, California Building Code, and California Electrical Code adopted by the city.
(Ord. 1598)
A.
Director Review Required. The erection, installation, alteration, enlargement, or relocation of all signs shall be approved by the director unless otherwise stated in this chapter. Specifically, planned sign programs shall be reviewed and approved through the conditional use process pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits.
B.
Minor Alterations Excepted. The changing of changeable copy, or the replacement of sign copy or sign face where the materials, copy and background color, and copy size are the same as the existing sign they replace, is not deemed an alteration and is only subject to director approval.
C.
Findings. The approval authority will not approve an application for a sign unless it finds that the proposed sign or signs are aesthetically compatible with the surrounding area, considering such factors as the proposed size, location and design of the sign(s), the type of business to which the sign(s) pertain, the architectural character of the building(s) on site, the architectural character of surrounding buildings, and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the proposed sign.
D.
Application—Individual Signs on Sites with Less than 4 Nonresidential Tenant Spaces. An application for a sign shall be submitted on a form provided by the director and shall include detailed drawings to show the locations, dimensions, structure, colors, materials, fonts, and symbols of all proposed signs. The application shall indicate the area of each individual sign and the aggregate area of all existing and proposed signs on the lot, and demonstrate through drawings and/or calculations that all standards are met. The application shall be accompanied by a fee in the amount specified in the master fee schedule.
E.
Planned Sign Programs. All commercial projects with more than 4 nonresidential tenant occupancies, all separately identifiable commercial building groups, and all construction and renovation projects involving more than 20,000 square feet must obtain approval for a planned sign program prior to the installation of any signs.
1.
Permit Requirement. Conditional use permit approval pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits shall be required to approve a planned sign program.
2.
Required Submittals. Applications for a planned sign program shall include the following information: a computation of allowable area for all signs, the total number of proposed signs, the area of each individual sign as well as aggregate area of all signs on the site, the proposed height and dimensions of all signs, the location of each sign indicated on both a site plan and on typical building elevations, and drawings of generic sign types, including general information on materials and color schemes. An application shall also include a written program of standards for all sign types to be distributed to future tenants, including color, size, illumination, construction details, and placement of signs.
3.
Findings. The commission will only approve a planned sign program if it finds that the program is aesthetically compatible with the surrounding area. In making this determination, the commission shall consider such factors as the size, location and design of the proposed signs; the type of businesses to which the signs will pertain; the architectural character of the site and surrounding buildings; and the type of other permitted signage in the vicinity of the site.
4.
Consistency. After approval of a planned sign program, no sign shall be contracted or installed except in conformance with the planned sign program, and such program may be enforced in the same way as any other provision of this chapter.
5.
Amendments. A planned sign program may be amended through submission to and approval of a new conditional use permit by the commission.
F.
Conditional Use Permit for Exceptions to Standards. An exception to any standard of this chapter regarding the size, dimensions, or height of individual signs, or the number of signs of a particular type, may be reviewed and approved through the conditional use permit process of Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits. No conditional use permit for an exception to a standard shall be granted unless the planning commission finds that in addition to conformity with the required use permit findings in Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits, Section 11.5.20.020: Required Findings, the proposal meets the following:
1.
The project is consistent with the applicability of the sign regulations. See Section 11.4.25.005: Applicability;
2.
The proposed signage is not excessive in relation to the size of the site or the size of signs in the surrounding area; and
3.
The proposed departure from a standard is necessary in order to adequately identify businesses, or will result in a superior design solution given the characteristics of the site or buildings.
(Ord. 1598)
A.
Maintenance of Signs. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, guys and anchors, shall be properly maintained with respect to appearance, structural and electrical features. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times. All signs shall be subject to maintenance provisions as follows:
1.
Any location where business goods are no longer sold or produced or where services are no longer provided shall have 90 days to remove any remaining or derelict signs following notification by the city and at the expense of such property. Where the written notification has been given by the city and compliance has not been met within the required 90-day period, the city may cause the removal of such signs with the cost for such removal to be attached to the property.
2.
All signs shall be refinished to remove rust or other corrosion due to the elements and any cracked or broken faces and malfunctioning lamps shall be replaced within 90 days following notification by the city.
3.
Signs erected, installed, located or maintained in the city must comply with all applicable structural provisions of the most recently adopted versions of the Uniform Sign Code, California Building Code, and California Electrical Code adopted by the city.
4.
When a sign is replaced or removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure within 30 days of such replacement or removal.
B.
Administrative Removal. Signs may be removed by the city in accordance with the following procedures:
1.
Illegal or Dilapidated Signs. If the director finds that a permanent sign is in violation of this chapter, or is in disrepair, deteriorated, including peeling paint, prohibited, abandoned, illegal, or is in violation of the California Building Code or any other laws and ordinances, he or she shall seek correction of the violations as provided for in the municipal code. The director shall inform the sign owner by a written notice that the sign is to be removed.
2.
Safety Hazard or on Public Right-Of-Way. The city engineer, or his/her designee, without giving notice, shall have the authority to authorize removal of any sign which:
(Ord. 1598)
Lettering on signs should be legible. Preferred character sizes for signs are:
Minimum Character Size (inches) | Intended Reading Distance (feet) |
|---|---|
3.5 | 60 |
4.0 | 70 |
4.5 | 80 |
5.0 | 90 |
5.5 | 100 or more |
(Ord. 1598)
Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration shall be limited to signs displayed for no more than 60 days. Fabric signs shall be restricted to city banners, awning signs, and temporary banners permitted pursuant to Section 11.4.25.020: Temporary Banners.
(Ord. 1598)
A.
Planning Commission to Designate. The planning commission shall designate existing signs as historically and/or architecturally significant and therefore exempt from the size and/or height provisions of this chapter. Any sign so designated shall be maintained in its original condition and inspected annually for structural or other defects which would render the sign unsafe. Any such sign found by the city to be unsafe shall be restored or removed within the time specified by the city.
B.
Permit Requirement.
1.
Requests for such historic designation shall be approved by conditional use permit pursuant to Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits.
2.
In considering an application for historic sign designation, the planning commission shall make the following findings, in addition to those required by Chapter 11.5.20: Development Permits, Section 11.5.20.020: Required Findings:
3.
Any replacement sign for an historic sign shall require a current sign permit and all new signs shall comply with the current height and size requirements.
(Ord. 1598)
Any sign, banner, or sign structure not erected, constructed or located in conformance with this chapter is an illegal sign and is subject to abatement in accordance with the public nuisance abatement procedures set forth in Title 7: Public Peace, Morals, and Welfare, Chapter 7.40: Nuisance Abatement.
(Ord. 1598)