City of Manteca, CA Chapter 17.54 SIGNS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY

§ 17.54.010 Purpose and Intent.

The purpose of this Chapter is to establish regulation of signs in order to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare; to harmonize the legitimate private purposes of signs to safeguard and enhance property values; to protect public and private investment in buildings and open space; to preserve and improve the appearance of Manteca as a place in which to live and work; to preserve and enhance the attractiveness of Manteca to nonresidents who come to visit and trade; to encourage sound signing practices as an aid to business and for the information of the public; to prevent excessive and confusing sign displays; and to reduce hazards to motorist and pedestrians. This Chapter is intended to regulate signs, recognizing the need for adequate business and noncommercial identification, advertising, and communication.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011)

§ 17.54.020 Policies for Sign Regulations.

A. Regulatory Interpretations. The provisions of this Chapter shall not be interpreted to nullify any easements, covenants, or other private agreements which provide for more restrictive sign regulations than are required by this Chapter.

B. Enforcement. The Community Development Director is authorized and directed to enforce and administer the provisions of this Chapter. Whenever the application of this Chapter is uncertain due to ambiguity of its provisions, the issue shall be referred to the Community Development Director for an interpretation, and such interpretation shall be made by the Community Development Director within ten business days. Any decision made by the Community Development Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission in accordance with Section 17.08.070 (Appeals) of this Title.

C. Message Neutrality. It is the City's policy and intent to regulate both commercial and noncommercial signs in a viewpoint-neutral or content-neutral manner. The message of the sign shall not be reviewed except to the minimum extent necessary to identify the type of sign.

D. Message Substitution. Subject to the property owner's consent, a noncommercial message of any type may be substituted in whole or in part for the message displayed on any sign for which the sign structure or mounting device is authorized pursuant to this Code, without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message. In addition, any on-site commercial message may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any other on-site commercial message, provided that the sign structure or mounting device is authorized pursuant to this Code, without consideration of message content. This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, lot, or land; does not affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted; does not allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device; and does not allow for the substitution of an off-site commercial message in the place of an on-site commercial or noncommercial message.

E. On-Site/Off-Site Distinction. Within this Chapter, the distinction between on-site and off-site signs applies only to commercial messages.

F. General Prohibition. Permanent signs not expressly permitted by this Chapter are prohibited.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011)

§ 17.54.030 Sign Requirements and Review Procedures.

A. Permits Required

1. Building Permit Required. A building permit shall be required for all permanent signs (building-attached or freestanding) not specifically exempted by this Chapter, prior to erection, relocation, alteration, or replacement of a sign. A building permit for a sign shall be reviewed in the same manner as any other building permit as established in Section 17.10.030 (Zoning Conformance Approval). Unless otherwise required by the City-adopted Building Code, a building permit shall not be required for general maintenance of existing signs or the replacement of a sign face (including message) when the area of the sign is not being changed.

2. Master Sign Program Required. To ensure compliance with the regulations of this Chapter and except as otherwise exempted, a Master Sign Program shall be required for all new nonresidential developments of three or more separate tenant spaces that (a) share either the same parcel or structure and (b) use common access and parking facilities. The process for application, review, and decision regarding a Sign Program shall be as established in Section 17.10.090 (Master Sign Program).

B. Method of Application. Applications for a building permit for a sign, a Master Sign Program, or Site Plan and Design Review shall be made on the form(s) prescribed by the Community Development Department. The application shall be accompanied by any fees as specified by City Council resolution. The required contents of the application shall be as specified in Chapter 17.10 (Entitlements).

C. Application Review Procedures and Decisions. The application and review procedures for building permits for Master Sign Programs, and Site Plan and Design Review for signs shall be as provided in Chapter 17.10 (Entitlements).

D. Variances. Applications for a Variance from the terms of this Chapter shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission according to the Variance procedures set forth in Section 17.10.120 (Variance).

E. Appeals. Appeal procedures shall be as provided in Section 17.08.070 (Appeals).

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011)

§ 17.54.040 Exempt Signs.

The following sign types are expressly exempted from the permit requirements of this Chapter and Title but still must satisfy any and all other applicable City of Manteca permit requirements when necessary (e.g., building, electrical, plumbing, grading, encroachment). Any exception to the limitations for exempt signs listed herein shall require a Variance pursuant to Section 17.10.120 (Variance). However, consideration of the variance request shall not evaluate the message or graphic design of the sign.

A. Exempt Signs without Limitations. The following signs are exempt from Sign Permit and City review requirements:

1. All devices which are excluded from the definition of a sign as set forth in this Code.

2. Official traffic signs or other municipal governmental signs, legal notices, advertisements prescribed by law and placed by governmental entities, and signs indicating the location of buried utility lines or any notice posted by a governmental officer in the scope of his or her duties.

3. Direction, warning, or information signs or structures required or authorized by law, or by Federal, State, County, or City authority, including, but not limited to, traffic control signs (e.g., stop, yield), highway route number signs, and construction zone signs.

4. Utility company signs identifying cables, conduits, danger, and so forth.

5. Street address signs consistent with the City-adopted Building Code or relevant provisions of the City Municipal Code. Notwithstanding anything in this Section, street address signs may be illuminated and may contain reflective paint or material.

6. Historical and/or memorial tablets and identification plaques installed by or on behalf of a recognized governmental historical agency.

7. Time and temperature signs containing no advertising copy.

8. Signs and advertising for the California State Lottery as authorized by California Government Code, Section 8880 et seq.

9. Change of copy that does not alter the size, location, or illumination of a sign.

10. Signs prohibiting trespassing or hunting.

B. Exempt Signs with Limitations. The following signs are exempt from Sign Permits and as such do not require City review. However, they shall be consistent with the size, height, duration, and/or maximum number limitations listed.

1. A-Frame Signs. Each commercial business location shall be permitted one A-frame sign per street frontage. The sign may have two faces, and shall not exceed four feet in height or a width of three feet. The sign shall be unlighted. A multiple-occupancy building shall constitute one business location for the purposes of determining the number of permitted signs. A frame signs shall not obscure or visually impair vehicular traffic and shall not be placed within a public right-of-way or on publicly owned property without first obtaining a Portable Sign Permit (see Section 17.54.100, Allowed Off-Site Signage).

2. Permanent window signs (e.g., hanging on the interior of the window or stenciled on the inside or outside of the window) not exceeding four square feet per street frontage shall be permitted. Such signs should be encouraged to promote business identification, hours of operation, and address information. Such signs may not be illuminated.

3. Construction signs not to exceed one sign per street frontage, a maximum of 50 square feet in area each, and a maximum height of 10 feet. Construction signs may not be illuminated. Such signs shall only be permitted during the period of actual construction after the building permit has been issued.

4. Garage, yard, estate, and other home-based sale signs advertising the one-day sale of items from a garage, yard, estate, or other home-based sale. A maximum of four signs, each a maximum of six square feet, may be allowed. Such signs shall not be affixed to any utility pole or street sign pole.

5. Real estate signs are allowed on private property out of any required clear visibility triangle, with the following limitations:

a. For single-family residential property, one sign with a maximum sign area of 10 square feet (each side) and a maximum height of five feet, unless placed in a window, and shall be unlighted.

b. For multi-family and commercial property, one on-site sign per street frontage. The sign may be attached flat against the building or freestanding to a maximum height of six feet. The sign shall not project above the eave line or top of the parapet of the building and shall be unlighted.

For unimproved acreage, one real estate sign shall be permitted per street frontage.

c. Removal. All real estate signs must be removed not later than 15 days after the close of the transaction proposed by the sign.

6. On-Site Directional Signs. Exit, entrance, or other on-site traffic directional signs are permitted. The maximum height of any directional sign shall be 36 inches, and the maximum size shall be 12 square feet. No advertising or message other than for traffic direction shall be displayed.

7. Noncommercial signs on private property (e.g., political signs, fundraising signs for non-profit corporations and charitable organizations), each sign having a maximum size of 32 square feet. All signs exempted by this subsection shall be removed within seven days following an election/event.

8. Gas pricing signs, as required by state law, which identify the brand, types, octane rating, etc., of gasoline for sale within the City, and in compliance with sign allowance in applicable zoning district.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011; Ord. 1511 § 1, 2012; Ord. 1557 §§ 1, 2, 2015)

§ 17.54.050 Prohibited Signs.

It is unlawful to erect, and no permit shall be issued for, any of the following signs:

A. Any sign not specifically in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter.

B. Signs painted or mounted on roofs or placed above the roofline (except for mansard roofs).

C. Animated signs or flashing signs, with the exception of time and temperature signs and electronic message signs permitted under a use permit as part of a Regional Recreation/Hospitality Center as defined in Section 17.100.040 (Sign Definitions).

D. Pennants, banners, balloons, or other paraphernalia composed of paper, cloth, or other flexible material, except as otherwise permitted.

E. Signs which rotate, move, reflect, blink, or incorporate elements that do so, except time and temperature signs and electronic reader signs.

F. Signs placed on the public right-of-way or affixed to an element or structure on the public right-of-way, or located on a publicly owned tree, fence, or utility pole, or otherwise posted on public property, except where required by a governmental agency or permitted as part of kiosk sign program, or as provided in Section 17.54.100 (Allowed Off-Site Signage), or as provided in Chapter 17.56 (Signs on City Property).

G. Inflatable balloon signs, including, but not limited to, individual balloons, balloon strings, and other inflatable objects made of a flexible material and inflated so as to be lighter than air.

H. Signs affixed to vehicles where the primary purpose of the vehicle is advertising. This does not apply to signs maintained on vehicles when such advertising is incidental to the primary purpose for which the vehicle is being used (e.g., delivery service) or is required by state or federal law (e.g., contractor's license number) as exempted in the definition of a sign. Signs included in this definition include, but are not limited to, cars parked showing signs or vehicles that drive around the city with the express intent of communicating a message displayed on the vehicle (e.g., "rolling billboards").

I. Signs attached to light standards, unless part of a Master Sign Program or Street Banner Program.

J. Off-site signs, except as otherwise permitted, including those permitted with a portable sign permit, or under a use permit as part of a Regional Recreation/Hospitality Center, within the Public/Quasi-Public Zoning District, or City-controlled property pursuant to the provisions outlined in Chapter 17.56.

K. On-site signs that identify an activity, product, or service no longer conducted or available at the site on which the sign is located.

L. Pole signs.

M. Abandoned signs.

N. Signs on fences.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011; Ord. 1511 § 2, 2012; Ord. 1557 § 3, 2015)

§ 17.54.060 General Development, Maintenance, and Removal Provisions.

A. Construction of Signs. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be manufactured, assembled, and erected in compliance with all applicable State, Federal, and City laws and regulations, including the City-adopted Building Code. All signs shall comply with the following criteria:

1. All transformers, equipment, programmers, and other related items shall be screened and/or painted to match the building or shall be concealed within the sign.

2. All permanent signs shall be constructed of quality, low-maintenance materials such as metal, concrete, natural stone, glass, and acrylics. Techniques shall be incorporated during construction to reduce fading and damage caused by exposure to sunlight or degradation due to other elements.

3. All freestanding signs that incorporate lighting shall have underground utility service.

4. All temporary signs, portable signs, and banners shall be made of a material designed to maintain an attractive appearance for as long as the sign is displayed.

B. Maintenance of Signs. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be maintained and kept in proper repair. The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted, and free from rust and corrosion. Any cracked, broken surfaces, malfunctioning lights, missing sign copy, or other nonmaintained or damaged portions of a sign shall be repaired or replaced within 30 days following notification by the City. Noncompliance with such a request will constitute a nuisance condition and zoning violation and will be enforced as such.

C. Determination and Measurement of Sign Area

1. General Area Calculation. Generally, the area of a sign shall be measured as the overall length of the sign times the overall height of each segment of copy or logo exclusive of background, with the exception of those signs without a distinctive background (e.g., channel letters) see definition for Void Rule in Section 17.100.040. See Figure 17.54.060-1 (Sign Area).

FIGURE 17.54.060-1: SIGN AREA

2. Awning or Canopy Signs. Sign copy which is applied to an awning or canopy shall be computed at 100 percent of the area within a single rectangle enveloping the sign copy.

3. Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs are to be computed as total height by the total length of the sign excluding framework (e.g., post, masonry column, or beam). The base of a monument sign is not part of the sign. See Figure 17.54.060-2 (Freestanding Sign Area). For double-faced (two-sided) freestanding signs, only one side of the sign shall be used to determine sign area.

FIGURE 17.54.060-2: FREESTANDING SIGN AREA

4. Three-Dimensional Objects. Where a sign consists of one or more three-dimensional objects (e.g., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculptures, or statue-like trademarks), the sign area shall be measured at their maximum projection upon a vertical plane, as viewed from a position in the public right-of-way which produces the largest visual projection. See Figure 17.54.060-3 (Area of Three-Dimensional Objects).

FIGURE 17.54.060-3: AREA OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL OBJECTS

D. Measurement of Sign Height. Sign height shall be measured from the uppermost part of the sign used in determining the area of the sign to the lowest elevation at the base of the sign.

E. Setback and Spacing of Freestanding Signs

1. The minimum setback distance for freestanding signs shall be measured from the property line. All freestanding signs shall be located outside of the present or future public right-of-way and any required clear visibility triangle.

2. The minimum spacing distance between permanent freestanding signs, excluding on-site directory signs, should be 50 feet. The designated Approving Authority will review a proposed sign location on a case-by-case basis to ensure the sign is located outside the required clear visibility triangle and does not otherwise inhibit motorist safety.

F. Sign Removal or Replacement. When a sign is removed or replaced, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that support the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure. This provision does not apply to routine maintenance.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011; Ord. 1511 § 3, 2012; Ord. 1557 § 4, 2015)

§ 17.54.070 Design Standards.

The following criteria shall be utilized for permanent advertising displays and signs, and shall not be construed to govern the design of temporary signs.

A. General Design Standards

1. Architectural Style. Each sign shall be designed to be compatible with and relate to the architectural style of the main building or buildings upon the site where such sign is located. Signs located on commercial sites but in a predominantly residential area shall be unobtrusive and designed to be compatible with such residential area.

2. Relationship to Buildings. Signs located upon a lot with one main building or several buildings shall be designed to incorporate at least one of the predominant visual elements of such building or buildings, such as the type of construction materials, color, or other design detail.

3. Color. The color(s) of a sign should be harmonious and complementary to the colors of the building on or near which it is to be located. Fewer colors will generally produce the most attractive sign.

4. Letter Style. The letter style to be used on a sign should be compatible with the architectural style of the building on or near which it is to be located. For example, simple block letters are generally most compatible with Spanish-style buildings. For those buildings that have been recently constructed and have no particular architectural style, simpler letter styles are desirable.

5. Sign Materials. The goal of sign design is to maintain moderate, attractive, and compatible styling so as not to conflict or detract from the architectural character of the area. The choice of materials shall be left to the discretion of the applicant, subject to the provisions of this Chapter and the approval of the City.

6. Relationship to Other Signs. Where there is more than one sign on a site or building, all permanent signs displaying a commercial message shall have designs that similarly treat or incorporate the following design elements to the extent feasible:

a. Letter size and style of copy;

b. Shape of total sign and related components;

c. Type of construction materials;

d. Sign/letter color and style of copy;

e. Method used for supporting sign (e.g., wall or ground base); and

f. Location.

7. Sign Illumination. The artificial illumination of signs, either from an internal or external source, shall be designed to minimize negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. The following standards shall apply to all illuminated signs:

a. External light sources shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination of an object other than the sign;

b. The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will create glare or other negative impacts on residential properties in direct line of sight to the sign;

c. Unless otherwise permitted by another provision of this Chapter, signs shall not have blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights, or other illumination devices that have a changing light intensity, brightness, or color;

d. Colored lights shall not be used at a location or in a manner so as to be confused or constructed as traffic control devices;

e. Reflective-type bulbs and incandescent lamps that exceed 15 watts shall not be used on the exterior surface of signs so that the face of the bulb or lamp is exposed to a public right-of-way or adjacent property; and

f. Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible and shall comply with Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (California Building Standards Code).

8. The maximum coverage of copy allowed on a sign shall be 80 percent of the sign face.

B. Design Standards for Special Sign Types

1. Awning and Canopy Signs. Awning and canopy signs may be permitted only as an integral part of the awning or canopy to which they are attached or applied, as follows:

a. Lettering shall be allowed on awning valances only and shall not exceed 18 inches in height. Logos, symbols, and graphics that do not include text may be allowed on the shed (slope) portion of an awning and shall not exceed 4 square feet in area for each awning. See Figure 17.54.070-1 (Awning and Canopy Sign).

FIGURE 17.54.070-1: AWNING AND CANOPY SIGN

b. Lettering shall be located within the middle 70 percent of the valance area.

c. Only permanent signs that are an integral part of the awning or architectural projection shall be allowed. Temporary signs shall not be placed on awnings.

d. Awning signs shall only be allowed for first- and second-story occupancies.

e. Awnings shall not be lighted from under the awning (backlit) so that the awning appears internally illuminated. Lighting directed downwards that does not illuminate the awning is allowed.

f. Awnings shall be regularly cleaned and kept free of dust and visible defects.

g. The style of the awning/canopy shall complement the architectural style of the building to which it is attached. Awnings should generally have a simple horizontal valance if located over rectangular or square window/door openings. Domed or barrel-shaped awnings are appropriate for buildings with arched window/door openings.

h. Awnings and canopies shall be made of durable, long-lasting materials that minimize fading and tearing. Ideal materials are canvas and other tightly woven fabrics.

2. Bracket Signs and Under-Canopy Signs

a. Location. Blade or under-canopy signs shall be placed only on ground-floor façades, except for businesses located above the ground level with direct exterior pedestrian access.

b. Height. The lowest point of a blade or under canopy sign shall be a minimum of 8 feet above grade.

c. Projection. The sign may project a maximum of 4 feet from the building.

d. Sign Structure. Sign supports and brackets shall be compatible with the design and scale of the sign.

e. Encroachment. Blade or under-canopy signs may not encroach into the public right-of-way or be located above it, or into City-owned property except with an encroachment permit.

3. Wall Signs

a. Wall signs shall be compatible with the predominant visual architectural elements of the building façade.

b. Wall signs shall be placed to establish façade rhythm, scale, and proportion where such elements are weak. For many existing buildings that have a monolithic or plain façade signs can establish or continue appropriate design rhythm, scale, and proportion.

c. Wall signs shall utilize a consistent proportion of signage to building scale, such as 1/3 text to 2/3 wall area or 1/4 text to 3/4 wall area. See Figure 17.54.070-2 (Text Scale).

FIGURE 17.54.070-2: TEXT SCALE

d. Wall sign raceways shall be concealed from public view (e.g., within the building wall or painted to match the exterior color of the building where the sign is located) or otherwise integrated with the design of the sign and building so as to not detract from the architectural character of the building.

e. Direct and indirect lighting methods are allowed for wall signs, provided that they are not harsh or unnecessarily bright. Light shall either be directed down or in such a way that it does not cause light trespass or glare onto adjoining properties or public rights-of-way.

f. Can signs are discouraged. Channel letters, reverse channel letters, and pushpin letters are preferred. Letters may not utilize gold-colored (or a shade of gold) trim cap.

g. If a tenant's signage on one façade comprises multiple elements (e.g., logo and text), the elements shall be located and scaled with relationship to each other.

4. Freestanding Signs

a. In an effort to promote full architectural integration of signs, voids between the sign face and the sign structure are prohibited. Either the sign face shall utilize the full width of the sign structure or coverings that are architecturally consistent with the rest of the sign shall be used to fill any voids.

b. Materials and design for freestanding signs shall be complementary to the materials and design of the buildings for the related development. For example, if the façade of the building is made of brick or brick veneer, a complementary freestanding sign would also include brick.

c. Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the sign equal to the area of the sign and proportionate to the height of the sign, consisting of groundcover, shrubs and/or trees. Landscaping shall be complementary to and designed in concert with the landscaping for the overall site. The design of the landscaping shall be such that natural growth will not obscure the sign from the public right-of-way. Said landscaping shall be in addition to the minimum landscaping standards for the particular use and for location.

d. Freeway-oriented freestanding signs shall be "monumental-style", the supporting structure a minimum width of the message area, and well-proportioned, height versus width, with a minimum of 50 percent of the supporting structure enclosed. Architectural elements such as columns, pilasters, cornices, trellises, and similar details shall be provided on the sides and top to frame the sign panel and add design interest. Said sign shall incorporate the text "Manteca" in the design.

5. Monument Signs. Monument signs may be used in conjunction with other freestanding signs on sites 1 acre or more in size. On sites less than 1 acre in size, only monument signs shall be permitted or may be used in conjunction with a freeway-oriented freestanding sign. Monument signs shall comply with the setback and spacing standards for freestanding signs in Subsection 17.54.060(E).

6. Changeable Copy Sign. These types of signs shall be considered to be the same as any other type of sign and shall be regulated based on their location; i.e., if located on a wall, they shall be deemed wall signs. The maximum allowed size for a changeable copy sign shall be 24 square feet per display face. The sign area shall count toward the maximum allowed sign area for the property. Such signs may be internally illuminated.

7. Electronic Message Signs. Electronic message signs shall only be permitted under a Major Use Permit as part of a regional recreation/hospitality center use. The illumination level shall be regulated such that the intensity of the illumination is appropriate based on the level of lighting of the surrounding environment (e.g., illumination by the sun or moon during day, dusk, night time, and dawn) through the use of such means as light meters and programmed illumination regulation or LEDs that are designed to limit the spread of light.

8. Projecting Sign. Projecting signs shall project no closer than 2 feet to the outside edge of the curb. Signs projecting more than two-thirds the distance to the curb shall be no lower (bottom edge of sign) than 12 feet above the sidewalk; signs projecting less than two-thirds the distance shall be no lower than 8 feet above the sidewalk.

9. Window signs. Window signs may not exceed 50 percent of the total window area of any window. Further,

a. Permanent window signs shall count toward the total sign area allowed; and

b. Temporary window shall not count toward the total sign area allowed.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011; Ord. 1557 § 5, 2015; Ord. 2018-16 § 1)

§ 17.54.080 Allowed Permanent On-Site Sign Standards.

A. On-Site Signs Generally. Table 17.54.080-1 (Allowed Permanent On-Site Sign Standards) lists the development standards for all permanent on-site signs based on use type and Zoning District, as well as allowed sign type. As identified in Section 17.54.030 (Sign Requirements and Review Procedures), a building permit is required before any of the sign types listed herein are installed, erected, or otherwise established. Only those signs that may be permitted are listed. Regulations for temporary promotional on-site signs are listed in Table 17.54.090-1 (Temporary Sign Standards). Regulations for off-site signs are listed in Section 17.54.100 (Allowed Off-Site Signage). The following general rules/standards apply to permanent signs regulated in this Section.

B. Illumination. Generally, any permanent on-site sign may be illuminated; however, signs located within residential Zoning Districts shall not be illuminated. Where illumination of a sign is allowed, such illumination may be achieved by any method that minimizes glare onto neighboring or abutting property, such as from behind the sign (e.g., light source behind the face of the sign, such as with the opaque, nontransparent face of channel letters; silhouette halo illumination behind letters) or by a low-level spotlight.

C. Freestanding Sign Setback. All permanent freestanding on-site signs shall comply with the setback and spacing requirements of Subsection 17.54.060(E).

D. Sign Area Allowance. Allowable sign area is either a set square footage per establishment or is based on a ratio of sign area to primary building frontage. Sign area is calculated as described in Subsection 17.54.060(C) (Determination and Measurement of Sign Area). Where a ratio is described, it applies up to the listed maximum. Where a ratio is prescribed to a specific building frontage, it shall be calculated using just the frontage length of that façade (e.g., rear façade, ratio applied to length of rear façade).

E. Collective Sign Area. The total sign area allowed herein for each sign type may be distributed among the maximum number of signs permitted for that sign type. For example, the total allowed area for wall signs for a particular establishment may be distributed among the maximum number of wall signs allowed for that same establishment.

TABLE 17.54.080-1 ALLOWED PERMANENT ON-SITE SIGN STANDARDS
Sign Type		Maximum Number Permitted	Maximum Area	Maximum Height
Single-Family Residential Zoning Districts
Permanent subdivision identification sign, freestanding sign	Monument or on fence or wall	2/entrance	25 sq. ft.	6 ft.
Multi-Family Residential Zoning Districts
Freestanding sign, project identification	Monument or on fence or wall	1/entrance	25 sq. ft.	6 ft.
Commercial Zoning Districts
Freestanding signs, generally	Monument sign (site <1 acre)	1/entrance	25 sq. ft. per sign face3	6 ft.
	Monument sign (site >1 acre)	1/entrance	50 sq. ft. per sign face3	8 ft.
	Pylon sign (site >1 acre)	1 per 10 acres	100 sq. ft. per sign face3	20 ft.
Freestanding sign, freeway-oriented1	Pylon sign	1/site within 1,000 ft. of a state highway	500 sq. ft. per sign face3	75 ft.
Attached signs for building/tenants ≥5k sq. ft.	Wall sign	No maximum	2.5 sq. ft./1 lineal ft. of primary building/tenant frontage, max 200 sq. ft. per elevation	Roofline
	Window sign			—
Attached signs for building/tenants <5k sq. ft.	Wall sign	No maximum	1.5 sq. ft./1 lineal ft. of primary building/tenant frontage, max 100 sq. ft. per elevation	Roofline
	Window sign			—
Central Business District
Attached signs2		No maximum	2 sq. ft./1 lineal ft. of primary building/tenant frontage, no max.	Roofline
Industrial Zoning Districts
Attached signs for building/tenants >10k sq. ft.	Wall sign	No maximum	2.5 sq. ft./1 lineal ft. of primary building/tenant frontage, max 200 sq. ft. per elevation	Roofline
	Window sign			—
Attached signs for building/tenants <10k sq. ft.	Wall sign	No maximum	1.5 sq. ft./1 lineal ft. of primary building/tenant frontage, max 100 sq. ft. per elevation	Roofline
	Window sign			—
Freestanding signs, generally	Monument sign (site < 1 acre)	1/entrance	25 sq. ft. per sign face3	6 ft.
	Monument sign (site > 1 acre)	1/entrance	50 sq. ft. per sign face3	8 ft.
	Pylon sign (site > 1 acre)	1 per 10 acres	100 sq. ft. per sign face3	20 ft.
Open Space and Public/Quasi-Public Zoning Districts
Freestanding sign	Monument	1/entrance	25 sq. ft. per sign face3	10 ft.
Attached signs for building/tenants	Wall or window sign	No maximum	1.5 sq. ft./1 lineal ft. of primary building/tenant frontage, max 100 sq. ft. per elevation	Roofline

Notes:
1.	Requires the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit.
2.	Establishments in the central business district are permitted no more than one of each of the following attached signs: awning, projecting, undercanopy, wall, or window.
3.	Maximum sign area allowance is based on a two-sided sign.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011; Ord. 1511 § 4, 2012; Ord. 1577 § 6, 2015; Ord. O2018-16 § 1)

§ 17.54.090 Allowed Temporary On-Site Sign Standards.

This Section describes standards for temporary promotional on-site signs. These signs require the issuance of a Temporary Sign Permit from the Community Development Director. Temporary signs may include, but are not limited to, commercial signs for grand openings, special product, sale, or event advertising. The development standards for temporary signs are listed in Table 17.54.090-1 (Temporary On-Site Sign Standards). The following general rules/standards apply to temporary promotional signs:

A. Time Duration. Each sign shall be permitted for only a specific time as listed in Table 17.54.090-1 (Temporary Sign Standards).

B. Illumination. Temporary signs may not be illuminated.

C. Message. Temporary signs displaying a commercial message shall be limited to on-site signage only. Temporary off-site signage displaying a commercial message is prohibited; however, portable off-site signage displaying a commercial message is regulated under Section 17.54.100 (Allowed Off-Site Signage).

D. Encroachment. Temporary promotional signs shall not encroach on or above the public right-of-way or be attached to utility poles.

TABLE 17.54.090-1 TEMPORARY ON-SITE SIGN STANDARDS
Use Type	Maximum Temporary Number	Maximum Area	Maximum Height	Minimum Setback from ROW1	Maximum Time Duration
Temporary subdivision signs located within subdivision boundaries	1/perimeter street frontage of the subdivision	50 sq. ft./ sign face	10 ft.	5 ft.	Completion of subdivision
Temporary promotional sign2	No max.	No max.	No max.	5 ft.	30 days each 3 months

Notes:
1.	Must be located outside of the clear visibility triangle.
2.	Includes banners, streamers, flag, or other similar signs otherwise prohibited when part of a special event or sale, including, but not limited to, clearance sales, outdoor fairs and sales, and grand openings.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011; Ord. 1511 §§ 5, 6, 2012; Ord. 1557 §§ 7, 8, 2015)

§ 17.54.100 Allowed Off-Site Signage.

A. Subdivision Directional Sign. Temporary off-site subdivision directional signs are permitted, subject to the issuance of a Sign Permit and require conformance with the following development standards:

1. Location. The sign shall be located outside of the clear visibility triangle and subject to the setback regulations of the associated Zoning District. The sign shall be located a minimum of 100 feet from another freestanding sign. It shall only be located on streets classified as major collector, arterial, or expressway under the General Plan.

2. Height. The maximum height of the sign shall be 10 feet.

3. Area. The maximum area of one face of the sign shall be 32 square feet.

4. Number of Faces. Subdivision directional signs may have up to two faces.

5. Illumination. Subdivision directional signs may not be illuminated.

B. Portable Sign. Portable signs displaying a commercial message on a public sidewalk are permitted subject to the issuance of a Portable Sign Permit (including proof of liability insurance), and conformance with the following development standards.

1. Location. The sign shall be located outside of any clear visibility triangle. The sign shall allow at least four feet of clear passage along the sidewalk in compliance with Federal and State standards for disabled access and shall be set back at least one foot from the face of the curb. The sign shall be placed to avoid obstructing access to the sidewalk from parked vehicles. The signs shall be located on sidewalks adjacent to the business being advertised and only within commercial zones. Signs shall not be located in landscaping islands or medians within the public right-of-way, and are only allowed if the business is not part of a shopping center, or office complex. In addition, flags may be placed in the "Flags Over Manteca" flag holes except on days specified by the "Flags Over Manteca" program.

2. Height. The maximum height of the sign shall be four feet with the exception of flags having a maximum height of 15 feet.

3. Width. The maximum width of the sign shall be three feet. The maximum width of a flag is two feet.

4. Area. The maximum area of one face of a two-sided sign shall be 12 square feet. The maximum area of one face of a two-sided flag shall be 15 square feet.

5. Number of Signs. One sign or one flag, per 50 linear feet of business frontage.

6. Illumination. Portable signs shall not be illuminated.

7. Time of Day. Portable signs shall be allowed during business hours.

C. Human Sign. Human signs displaying a commercial message are permitted subject to the issuance of a Portable Sign Permit (including proof of liability insurance), and conformance with the following development standards.

1. Location. Human signs shall not interfere with pedestrians, cyclists or vehicular traffic. Human signs shall not be located in areas required for clear visibility triangle at intersections or otherwise block motorist, cyclist or pedestrian view of traffic and/or control devices.

2. Area. Signs worn, carried or held shall be no larger than 12 square feet.

3. Number of Signs. One per business location.

4. Time of Day. Human signs shall be allowed during the daytime, which is the period of time between sunrise and sunset.

5. General. Human signs shall not utilize any type of illumination, animation, flashing, blinking, rotating light or mirrors. Human signs shall not shout or generate any noise that would disrupt traffic or endanger pedestrian or traffic safety. Bull horns or amplified sound are prohibited.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011; Ord. 1511 § 7, 2012; Ord. 1557 § 9, 2015)

§ 17.54.110 Murals.

Murals may be placed on nonresidential buildings upon issuance of a building permit, provided the mural is noncommercial in nature. The area of the mural shall not be counted toward the total sign area of the site or building/establishment. Murals that display a commercial message shall be regulated as on-site commercial message wall signs under Section 17.54.080 (Allowed Permanent On-Site Sign Standards).

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011)

§ 17.54.115 Electronic Display Signs.

A. Permit. The City may allow for electronic display signs as part of a Regional Recreation/Hospitality Center (as defined in Section 17.100.040, Sign Definitions) under an approved Conditional Use Permit approved by the City Council after a recommendation by the Planning Commission.

B. Standards

1. If found by the City Council to aid in the generation of revenue and/or promote the City of Manteca in a positive manner, the City Council may permit the sign to include off-site advertising. Unless specifically permitted by the City Council, all related signage and advertisements included on the electronic display sign shall be on-site.

2. The sign will be maintained in such a manner that the screen is in full functioning order at all times. If the screen does develop areas with no or improper illumination that affect the overall quality of the images, the screen shall be turned off until necessary repairs have been made. The Community Development Director has the authority to make this determination.

C. Notice. A minimum 10-day notification and review period of the proposed electronic display sign must be completed prior to any required noticing for the use permit. Notification shall include the general design and detail of the proposed sign, map with the proposed location, and hours of operation. All comments received within the 10-day review period shall be forwarded to both the Planning Commission and City Council for consideration.

D. Findings for Approval. The City Council may approve the Conditional Use Permit for Electronic Display Signs as part of a Regional Recreation/Hospitality Center if the City Council can make all of the following findings in addition to the findings for a Conditional Use Permit provided in Section 17.10.130 (Conditional Use Permit):

1. The sign shall not violate any section of Chapter 17.54 (Signs) and shall meet all applicable requirements of the Outdoor Advertising Act, California Business and Professional Code, and any applicable codes relative to signage.

2. The sign shall not exceed a height or sign area that would create a nuisance to neighboring properties, or to motorist.

3. The sign shall be constructed of quality materials and of similar design and architecture as adjacent uses.

4. The hours of operation, illumination of the sign and changing images on the electronic display will not create a nuisance to surrounding uses, the vicinity, or traffic.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011)

§ 17.54.120 Removal of Signs, Nonconforming Signs, and Abandoned Signs.

A. Removal of Signs. Upon the closure and vacation of a business activity, the owner of said business or activity, or property owner, if different from business owner, shall, within 90 days, remove from public view wall signs and sign structures.

B. Nonconforming Signs

1. Except as otherwise provided by this Section, all existing signs which do not meet the requirements of this Chapter shall be deemed nonconforming signs and shall either be removed or brought into compliance with the City's Municipal Code when a substantial alteration to the sign is made. For purposes of this Section, a "substantial alteration" shall be defined as repair or refurbishing of any sign that alters its physical dimensions or height, or replaces any integral component of the sign including, but not limited to, alterations to exterior cabinets, bases, or poles. In addition, substantial alteration shall also include any repair or refurbishing of a sign that exceeds 50 percent of the depreciated value of the sign and structure, but excepting customary maintenance. "Customary maintenance" shall be defined as any activity or work performed for the purpose of actively maintaining the sign in its existing approved physical configuration and size dimensions at the specific location approved by the City and includes the following:

a. Repainting the sign text, cabinet, or other component of the sign without changing the advertising message; or

b. Routine maintenance with substantially the same colors and materials.

2. A nonconforming sign may remain in use provided no additions or enlargements are made thereto and no structural alterations are made therein, except as permitted for customary maintenance in Subsection (B)(1) of this Section. If said nonconforming sign is destroyed or removed, every future sign at the same location must be in conformance with the provisions of this Chapter.

C. Abandoned Signs. Abandoned signs may be abated by the City. For regulatory purposes, any factors indicating abandonment shall not begin occurring until 120 days after this Chapter first goes into effect.

(Ord. 1501 § 1, 2011)