A.
The
surroundings of the city are possessed of natural beauty having both
giant redwoods and the Pacific Ocean at the disposal of its citizens.
The city's economy is dependent on a vigorous local business economy,
spawned in part by tourism and its residential environment. The purpose
of this chapter is to regulate signs in the city. Signs have an obvious
impact on the character, quality and economic health of the city.
As a prominent part of the scenery, signs may attract the viewing
public, affect the safety of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and
help set the tone of the community.
B.
It
is the intent of the city that this chapter emphasize the importance
of business activity to the economic vitality of the city, help improve
the ability of business owners and operators to identify their businesses
to the community to enhance the furtherance of commerce, foster varied
and interesting places of trade and promote public safety by making
business signing visible to the passing public. This chapter is further
intended to encourage the use of signs that:
1.
Protect
and enhance the architectural character, harmony and natural beauty
of the community, its buildings and its various neighborhoods and
districts;
2.
Protect
commercial districts from sign clutter;
3.
Protect
the public's ability to identify users and premises without confusion;
4.
Eliminate
unnecessary distractions which may jeopardize pedestrian or vehicular
traffic safety;
5.
Are
as small in size and few in number as is consistent with their purpose
of communicating identification and essential information;
6.
Protect
the right of the public to be directed, warned, advised and informed;
7.
Possess
a satisfactory aesthetic effect and pleasing elements of design that
relates to the form, proportion, material, surface treatment and position;
8.
Assure
the maintenance of signs;
9.
Implement
the community design objectives expressed in the general plan;
10.
Prohibit political signs on public utility or street sign poles because
it is necessary to prevent visual distractions to motorists that create
traffic hazards, prevent the obstruction of road hazards and road
signs, and to prevent eyesores from proliferating along public streets;
11.
Regulate the size of political signs because it is necessary for
safety and aesthetic reasons, specifically that the strong winds common
in the city would remove the signs, creating hazards and accumulation
of debris, and extremely large or illuminated signs would create a
distraction to motorists.
C.
The
general sign usage provisions and regulations of this chapter shall
apply. The additional sign usage authorized hereunder shall be strictly
construed in its application.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
A.
This
chapter shall apply to on-premises advertising displays which meet
any of the following criteria:
1.
On-premises
advertising displays placed or constructed on or after January 1,
2003;
2.
Any
on-premises advertising display placed or constructed on or before
January 1, 2003 that was not in compliance with all ordinances and
regulations in effect at the time of its construction and erection
or use;
3.
Any
on-premises advertising display which was lawfully erected, but whose
use has ceased, or the structure upon which the display has been abandoned
by its owner, for a period of not less than ninety days;
4.
Any
on-premises advertising display which has been more than fifty percent
destroyed, and the destruction is other than facial copy replacement,
and the display cannot be repaired within thirty days of the date
of its destruction;
5.
Any
on-premises advertising display whose owner, outside of a change of
copy, requests permission to remodel and remodels that advertising
display, or expand or enlarge the building or land use upon which
the advertising display is located, and the display is affected by
the construction, enlargement or remodeling, or the cost of construction,
enlargement or remodeling of the advertising display exceeds fifty
percent of the cost of reconstruction of the building;
6.
Any
on-premises advertising display for which there has been an agreement
between the sign permit holder and the city for its removal as of
any given date;
7.
Any
on-premises advertising display which is a temporary sign;
8.
Any
on-premises advertising display which is or may become a danger to
the public or is unsafe;
9.
Any
on-premises advertising display which constitutes a traffic hazard
not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of any
city or county;
10.
Except where the provisions of this chapter provide for earlier sign
removal, on-premises advertising displays located in redevelopment
project areas created pursuant to Community Redevelopment Law of Division
24 of the California Health and Safety Code, shall be removed or made
to conform within sixty days after written notice by the community
development department, in accordance with the following schedule:
|
Amortization Period
|
Original Value of Sign
|
|---|---|
|
One Year
|
Less than $500.00
|
|
Two years
|
$500.00 to 999.00
|
|
Four years
|
$1,000.00 to $2,999.00
|
|
Eight years
|
More than $6,000.000
|
The permit holder of a redevelopment area sign shall,
upon written request of the community development department, furnish
acceptable proof of the initial cost in the form of: (a) an original
bill of sale, or (b) a depreciation schedule from state or federal
income tax returns, or (c) a written appraisal by a sign manufacturer;
11.
Advertising displays located in areas listed or eligible for listing
on the National Register of Historic Places;
12.
Advertising displays located in areas registered by the California
Department of Parks and Recreations as a state landmark of historical
interest pursuant to Section 5021 of the California Public Resources
Code;
13.
Advertising displays located in areas created as historic zones or individually registered properties by the city pursuant to Article 12 of Chapter 1 of Division 1 of Title 5 of the California Government Code.
B.
Legal
Nonconforming Signs.
1.
Legal
nonconforming signs shall be removed or made to conform with the provisions
of this chapter within sixty days after written notice by the community
development department, when:
a.
The use of the premises changes and the exterior of the building
or other site conditions are to be altered; or
b.
A sign is damaged or destroyed by any cause, to the extent that the
cost of repairing or replacing it would be more than fifty percent
of its value immediately prior to the damage; or
c.
In accordance with the provisions for abatement outlined in Section
17.74.190.
2.
Except
as otherwise provided in this chapter, nonconforming on-premises signs
shall be made to conform to the provisions of this chapter upon the
change of a name of any business, the relocation of any business,
or an application for a sign for any business.
3.
General
Provisions. A legal nonconforming sign may not be:
4.
Ordinary
repair and maintenance may be made to a legal nonconforming sign provided
that such maintenance and repair does not exceed twenty-five percent
of the actual dollar value of the sign in any one year.
5.
Exceptions
to the provisions of this section may be granted, in the form of a
variance, by the planning commission upon the application of any owner
of a sign who presents substantial evidence showing the following:
a.
There are exceptional circumstances applicable to the property on
which the nonconforming sign is located, including size, shape, topography,
location or surroundings which make it practically impossible to identify
effectively the property to the public if strict application of all
the provisions of these regulations are required; or
b.
The sign possesses unique features which make it a significant part
of the community character of the area in which it is located.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
As used in this chapter:
means any sign or advertising display remaining in place
or not maintained for a period of ninety days which no longer advertises
or identifies an ongoing business, product or service available on
the business premises where the sign or display is located.
means the same as "sign."
means a sandwich board sign.
means any sign that is submitted as part of, or related to,
the design of a building, or group of buildings, constructed for commercial
purposes, and that has gone through an approved process of design
review.
means any sign that is a part of or attached to an awning,
canopy or other fabric, plastic, or nonpermanent structural protective
cover over the doorway, window, patio or other part of the exterior
of a building. A marquee is not an awning or a canopy.
means a nonporous bag containing a gas lighter than air causing
it to rise and float above the ground.
means a sign made of flexible materials such as cloth, canvas,
plastic or cardboard.
means a rapidly rotating fixed light giving the appearance
of a flashing light.
means a residential dwelling occupied by a resident person
or family, containing individual living quarters occupied on a transient
basis for compensation, and in which a breakfast may be provided to
the guests.
means a sign structure which is made available for lease
or rent for the purpose of off-site advertising.
means a sign that is designed so that characters, letters
or illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the
face of the sign.
means an occasion or activity sponsored by either a governmental
or quasigovernmental agency (such as the harbor district, city of
Crescent City, Del Norte County, the Crescent City business and parking
improvement district, or chamber of commerce) or by a not-for-profit
organization (such as a church or a civic organization), the purpose
of which is to benefit the community as a whole, either by raising
funds through a specific event to address a specific issue (such as
the United Way Ball), by publicizing the area to visitors (such as
street fairs) or for the purpose of a community-wide celebration (such
as the fourth of July).
means a temporary sign erected on the premises on which construction
is taking place identifying the names of the persons or companies
involved in the project.
means the line at the face of the curb nearest to the street
or roadway. In the absence of a curb, the curbline shall be established
by the public works director.
means an accessory sign designed to guide or direct pedestrian
or vehicular traffic.
means the area made available by the sign structure, including
the background area, for the purpose of displaying an advertising
message.
means a sign with two faces only, with each face oriented
one hundred eighty degrees from the other. Such sign may be a pole,
projecting, hanging or roof sign.
means the public employee or officer designated by the legislative
body of the city to perform the duties imposed by these regulations.
means a usually rectangular piece of fabric of distinctive
design that is used as a symbol or as an attracting or signaling device.
Corporate flags contain the name or logo of an incorporated business
or organization. Governmental flags are duly recognized symbols of
a city, state or nation.
means sudden bursts of light. In certain uses it appears
to simulate movement.
means a sign not attached to any building and having its
own support structure, such as a pole or a monument-style base.
means the distance in feet of a lot measured along a street
right-of-way.
is a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity,
industry or other activity which is sold, offered or conducted elsewhere
than on the premises upon which such sign is located, or to which
it is affixed, and which is sold, offered or conducted on such premises
only incidentally if at all.
means the first thirty business days of a new business.
means the same as "monument sign."
means a sign that is suspended from the underside of a horizontal
plane surface, such as a marquee, awning or canopy, or from a bracket,
and which is supported by that surface or bracket.
means wording, symbols or pictures of a noncommercial nature
which may be erected or displayed in reference to a specific seasonal,
political or religious holiday. Sale announcements are not holiday
decorations.
means a projecting sign having its greatest dimension in
a horizontal direction.
means a sign giving the name, nature, logo, trademark or
other identifying symbol of an establishment.
means a nonprofit, public or quasi-public use or institution
such as a church, library, public or private school, hospital, or
municipally owned or operated building, structure or land used for
a public purpose.
means on-premises advertising displays which do not conform
to the provisions of this chapter but which lawfully existed and were
maintained prior to January 17, 1996.
means an emission of light produced by electrical action.
means a roof having two slopes on each side, with the lower
slope steeper than the upper one.
means any permanent-roofed structure made of a nonflexible
material, which is attached to and supported by a building, and which
projects over public property.
means any sign other than a pole sign, placed upon or supported
by the ground independent of any other structure.
means a decorative scene or graphic design painted on and
made an integral part of a wall surface, and making no reference to
a specific business or brand of product offered for sale on the premises.
means a small sign stating only the name and/or address of
the occupant(s), and his or her profession or specialty. However,
in the case of bed and breakfast establishments, only, nameplate additionally
means a sign displaying the name of the establishment.
has the same definition as California Business and Professions
Code Section 5490(b) as amended or supplanted.
Paper signs tacked or otherwise fastened to a side of a building
or bulletin board, or outside of a window are temporary signs unless
enclosed in a frame with a glass, Plexiglas or equivalent cover.
means the extension of the main walls of a building above
the roof level, such as a false front. Parapet walls are often used
to shield mechanical equipment or vents from view.
means a flag which tapers to one or two points. "Pennants"
also refers to strings of small flags or strips which can be hung
either attached to a building or across an open parking area.
means a nonpermanent announcement or sign in the form of
a small card, such as a poster or plaque.
means a freestanding sign that is wholly supported by one
or more posts or poles, free of braces or cables, either in the ground
or in a concrete base.
means a sign that is not permanently attached to the ground
or to a structure.
means a sign other than a wall sign or awning sign which
projects out from and is supported by a wall of a building or structure.
means the distance by which a sign extends over or beyond
the edge of a building.
means a public street, sidewalk or accessway.
means a sign of any size advertising real property for sale
or lease, including "open house" signs.
means a sign whose face(s) turn round on an axis, usually
a pole of any height.
means the same as "public right-of-way."
means the vertical distance measured from the average grade
level of the building (the ground) to the highest point of the roof,
ridge or parapet wall.
means a sign erected upon or above a roof or parapet of a
building or structure.
means a portable sign consisting of two hinged boards designed
to stand alone for display, and which may be folded and moved from
place to place. Also known as an "A-frame".
means the minimum horizontal distance from the building to
the property line as prescribed by this title.
means any writing, pictorial representation, symbol, banner,
or other figure of similar character of any material that is used
to identify, announce, direct attention to, communicate, inform or
advertise.
means the area in square feet of the smallest rectangle enclosing
the total exterior surface of a sign, or of one face of a double-faced
sign.
means the vertical distance from the average grade at the
base of the sign structure to the uppermost point of the sign.
means any structure that supports, or is capable of supporting
any sign as defined in this chapter. A sign structure may be a single
pole, several poles, frame structure, or solid base, or may be an
integral part of a building.
means any advertising or attention-getting device which includes
a part or parts which turn, gyrate or revolve rapidly.
means any long wavy strip, either free-floating or attached
at both ends, as alongside a building or over a parking lot or other
open area.
means that which is built or constructed; an edifice or building
of any kind, or any piece of work artificially built up or composed
of parts joined in some definite manner; but not including fences,
or walls used as fences that are three feet in height or less.
means the same as "hanging sign."
means any sign or advertising display constructed of fabric,
canvas, paper, plywood or other such light material, not permanently
erected, and constructed, created, intended or engineered to have
a useful life of less than fifteen years. Temporary signs may include,
but are not limited to vehicle and trailer signs, banners, balloons,
sandwich boards and paper signs.
means any device which displays the current time and temperature,
usually in the form of a clock and thermometer or an electronic digital
display unit. Often such devices include the name or logo of the business
upon whose premises the device is located.
means any sign mounted on a trailer or cart so as to be movable
by being pulled about.
means the same as "spinner."
means any sign which is painted or mounted on an operating
or nonoperating vehicle, which is parked on or adjacent to any property,
the principal purpose of which is to attract attention to any business,
service, product or an activity, or to convey a message for which
other avenues of expression are readily available. For the purpose
of this chapter, vehicle sign regulations shall not apply to business
vehicles on which the business name or logo is painted or attached,
and which are driven in the normal course of business activity.
means a projecting sign having its greatest dimension in
a vertical direction.
means a single-faced sign painted on or attached parallel
to a building or wall.
means a sign maintained in or painted upon a window so that
its message can be seen from the exterior of the structure. Window
signs do not include holiday decorations.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
The types of signs set forth in this section will be permitted for the various uses allowed in Sections 17.74.110 through 17.74.140 and must be limited to the restrictions set forth in Section 17.74.020, in addition to those required in Sections 17.74.050 through 17.74.080. Additional special use signs are also listed in this section.
A.
Signs
having Double Faces. Pole signs, revolving signs and projecting signs
may have double faces. Where such signs and marquees have double faces,
and are included in the total sign area, the area of only one face
need be included in the total area allowed. Where the two faces are
of different areas, the larger of the two must be counted as part
of the total sign area.
B.
Projecting
Signs. Projecting signs identifying a business located on the premises
shall be located no less than nine feet above the sidewalk, may not
project above the roofline of a wall or building, and shall project
into public property no more than thirty-six inches from the side
of the building. The area of such sign shall be included in the total
allowable aggregate sign area as provided in this chapter.
C.
Wall
Signs.
1.
Flat
wall sign(s) identifying each business conducted on the premises may
be painted on the surface of the building or attached to the face
of the building, no point of which shall project over eighteen inches
from the face of the building. Wall signs shall not occupy more than
fifty percent of the building surface envelope excluding window areas,
and shall not project above the top of the wall or above the roofline
of the building to which they are attached. The area of such sign
shall be included in the total allowable aggregate sign area as provided
in this chapter.
2.
On
buildings which are two or more stories in height, but which are occupied
above the first floor by other than the ground floor business, the
first floor envelope shall extend to the bottom of the second floor
window line. The second floor envelope shall extend from the bottom
of the second floor window line to the bottom of the above floor window
line, or to a line one and one-half feet below the roofline or top
of the wall.
D.
Marquee
Signs.
1.
For
purposes of computing sign area, signs on the face of a marquee which
is parallel to the front wall of a building shall be considered as
part of the flat wall sign envelope, and signs on other faces of the
marquee shall be considered as a double-faced projecting sign.
2.
Single-faced
or double-faced signs placed under marquees or canopies shall be limited
to a maximum size of eighteen inches high and sixty inches long, and
shall be not less than nine feet from the sidewalk to the bottom of
the sign. Only one side of these signs shall be used in computing
total aggregate sign area.
E.
Pole
or Freestanding Signs. Provisions for pole or freestanding signs shall
be as follows:
1.
Minimum
height in a vehicular area: fourteen feet to the bottom of the sign;
2.
Minimum
height over a public pedestrian area: ten feet to the bottom of the
sign;
3.
Maximum
height: thirty feet to the top of the sign absent a variance;
4.
Minimum
setback from the right-of-way line: one-half the distance from the
road right-of-way line to the legal setback line;
5.
Only
one pole sign shall be permitted per parcel where allowed;
6.
The
minimum ground area of two feet around the perimeter of the base of
all freestanding signs shall be landscaped. The community development
director may exempt certain freestanding signs from this requirement
where it is demonstrated by the applicant that the landscaping would
unduly interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or where this
requirement would be impossible to meet without compromising the stability
of the sign structure.
F.
Monument
or Ground Signs. Monument or ground signs shall not exceed five or
ten feet in height, depending upon the regulations for the zone in
which the sign is being placed, unless a variance for a higher sign
has first been approved by the planning commission. Such signs shall
not impede vehicle sight distance.
G.
Canopy
or Awning Signs. Signage shall only be permitted on the valance of
the canopy or awning, or as hanging signs suspended below the canopy.
Hanging signs suspended below canopies shall not exceed eighteen inches
in height or sixty inches in length, and shall be hung at a height
not less than nine feet measured from the sidewalk to the bottom of
the sign. Sign area shall be computed using only one face of the hanging
sign.
H.
Architecturally
Controlled Signs. Architecturally controlled signs for a special development
of an unusual nature or size may be reviewed and approved if acceptable
by the planning commission for their conformance with the intent of
this chapter, with the goals of the general plan, and for their appropriateness
to the type of development to which they are related. The determination
that such a review is desired may be made by the community development
director.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
The following provisions shall apply to all signs generally
permitted by this title:
A.
A sign
permit must be issued before the display of any signs other than exempt
signs.
B.
The
use of any sign that is obnoxious in character or location or which
is architecturally undesirable in the judgment of the community development
director can be denied even though such sign complies with all other
provisions of this title. The decision of the community development
director is appealable to the planning commission. A fee may be charged
to cover the cost of bringing the appeal before the planning commission.
C.
Materials
used in the construction of signs and sign structures and the construction
thereof shall comply with the Underwriters Laboratory and the latest
adopted edition of the Uniform Sign Code, Uniform Building Code, National
Electric Code, and other applicable laws and ordinances.
D.
Once
constructed, the front and back of all signs and sign structures shall
be fully painted and shall be maintained in a safe condition and neat
appearance.
E.
Signs
that tend to attract motorists to a roadway-oriented business shall
not be lighted except during hours that the merchandise or services
are available.
F.
Sign
structures not used for signage purposes for more than twelve months
shall be considered a nuisance and shall be removed.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
A.
Terms.
Sign permits may be revocable, conditional or valid for a term period,
and may be issued only for the construction and display of signs as
outlined in these provisions.
B.
Permits
Required. A sign shall not hereafter be erected, re-erected, constructed,
altered or maintained, except as provided by this code and only then
after a permit for the same has been issued by the community development
department. A separate permit shall be required for a sign or signs
for each business entity, and a separate permit shall be required
for each group of signs on a single supporting structure. In addition,
electrical permits shall be obtained for electrical signs. Each application
for a sign permit shall be reviewed by the city building inspector
who is authorized to determine if a building permit shall additionally
be required as a condition to the issuance of a sign permit. A building
permit shall be required when the proposed sign's erection, re-erection,
construction, alteration or maintenance may potentially adversely
affect the public's health, safety or welfare. Sign permits may be
issued to any person with a possessory or estatehold interest in the
real property where the sign is sought to be placed or to a contractor
licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs and employed by such
person to perform the sign's erection, re-erection, construction,
alteration or maintenance.
C.
Application
for Permit.
1.
Application
for a sign permit shall be made in writing upon forms furnished by
the community development department. Such application shall contain
the location by street and number of the proposed sign structure,
as well as the name and address of the applicant and properly identify
the applicant's interest in the real property where the sign is sought
to be placed or as a contractor licensed by the Department of Consumer
Affairs employed to perform the sign's erection, re-erection, construction,
alteration or maintenance. The application must be accompanied by
plans and specifications for all signs to be constructed. Such plans
and specifications shall specify:
a.
The materials of which the sign and its structure shall be constructed;
and
b.
The sign's location on the property; and
c.
The type of construction to be used in the sign; and
d.
The message and pictorial representations which will appear on the
sign(s); and
e.
The dimensions of its size; and
f.
Any other existing signage or display already on the property.
2.
Standard
plans may be filed with the community development department.
3.
The
application will be reviewed by the city's building and community
development departments, and must be approved by each prior to the
issuance of any sign permit. The applicant shall submit any additional
information required by the city's building and community development
departments.
D.
Fees.
The sign permit application shall be accompanied by fees as established
by resolution of the city council. In addition, signs subject to building
and electrical permits shall be subject to the fees required for the
issuance of those permits.
E.
Public
Hearing. The planning commission may hold public hearings to discuss
sign permit applications whenever it determines that such a hearing
is in the public interest. The planning commission may, through the
public hearing process, designate such conditions as it deems necessary
to ensure compliance with the purposes of this chapter, and may require
a guarantee or bond to be posted to that effect.
F.
Issuance.
Within thirty days of receiving a complete application for a permit
which is not contingent upon any action by the planning commission
or on the issuance of any other permits, the application shall, in
writing, be approved, conditionally approved or denied. Conditions
imposed may only be such as will assure compliance with the provisions
of these regulations.
G.
Inspections.
All signs for which a building permit is required shall be subject
to inspection as required by the building official. All signs may
be reinspected at the discretion of the building official.
H.
Revocation.
1.
In
any case where the conditions set forth in the approval of a sign
permit have not been met, the permittee shall be noticed by certified
mail, sent to the address shown on the sign permit application at
least ten days prior to a hearing at which the status of the conditions
are to be discussed. At the conclusion of the hearing, the planning
commission may revoke the permit.
2.
In
any case where an approved sign permit has not been used within six
months after the date of approval, then, without further action by
the city council or planning commission, the sign permit granted shall
become null and void.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
The following types of signs and advertising devices are permitted
with the issuance of a temporary permit from the community development
department. The permit may impose conditions on the size, placement,
structure, color, copy, conditions of removal or any other aspect
of the display at the discretion of the community development director.
Balloons may also be subject to approval by the building inspector,
at his or her recommendation. A fee may be charged by the building
department if an inspection of the balloon attachment is required.
Any one commercial establishment may obtain a temporary sign permit
under these regulations no more than three times in one calendar year.
A.
Grand
Opening Signs, Banners or Balloons. Pennants, signs, banners and/or
balloons for the promotion of the grand opening of a new business
for a period of not more than the first thirty business days of a
new business. A use permit must be granted by the planning commission
in order to display such devices for any longer than thirty days;
B.
Promotional
Signs, Banners or Balloons. Signs, banners, balloons, pennants or
other advertising devices for the promotion of special sales or other
business events lasting for a period of up to five days not more than
three times in one calendar year.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
In addition to any sign or advertising display device not specifically
allowed by these provisions, the following signs are prohibited.
A.
Signs
having one or a combination of the following characteristics:
1.
Obscene
or Offensive to Morals. Containing statements, words or pictures of
an obscene, indecent or immoral character which, taken as a whole,
appeal to the prurient interest in sex, and which signs are patently
offensive and, when taken as a whole, do not have serious literary,
artistic, political or scientific value;
2.
Imitative
of Official Signs. Signs (other than when used for traffic direction)
which contain the words stop, go, slow, caution, danger, warning or
similar words, or signs which imitate or may be construed as other
public notices, such as zoning violations, building permits, business
licenses and the like.
B.
Moving
signs having one or a combination of the following characteristics:
1.
Flashing
lights or changing of color intensity,
2.
Wind-blown
devices such as streamers, balloons, flares, pennants, propellers
and similar attention-getting displays or devices with the exception
of the following:
a.
National, state and/or local government flags properly displayed
and maintained upon a permanently mounted flagpole or bracket;
b.
One corporate or logo flag of a size not to exceed any governmental
flag displayed upon the same premises;
c.
Twirlers or spinners, provided a use permit has first been obtained
from the planning commission;
d.
Holiday decorations, in season, displayed for an aggregate period
not exceeding sixty days in any one calendar year, except no advertising
of the business or products shall be permitted.
3.
Where
there is any production of smoke, sound or other substances;
C.
Portable
or temporary signs, including sandwich boards, except as permitted
only for grand openings or special promotions;
D.
Obstructive
to Use or Visibility—Hazardous Locations. No sign shall be erected
in any manner which, in whole or in part, would create a hazardous
condition to pedestrians or traffic alike, either by creating visual
distraction, being color, sounds or glare, or by representing a traffic-control
device; and
E.
Signs
in one or more of the following locations:
1.
Within
Public Places.
a.
Within any public street, sidewalk, public parking lot, or right-of-way,
unless they shall maintain a minimum clearance of fourteen feet above
the adjoining grade level and after acquiring an encroachment permit
from the Department of Public Works, except marquee signs as defined
by this chapter, unless specifically provided for in this chapter,
b.
Furthermore, no person except a duly authorized public officer or
employee shall erect, construct, maintain, paste, print, nail, tack
or otherwise fasten or affix any card, banner, flag, pennant, handbill,
campaign sign, poster, sign, advertisement, or notice of any kind,
or cause or suffer the same to be done, on any curbstone, lamppost,
driveway, roadway, parkway, sidewalk, street, light standard, fire
hydrant, bench, electrical light pole, power pole, telephone pole,
traffic signal, bridge, wall, tree, parking meter, or on any other
public property, except as may be required or permitted by ordinance
or law; provided, that this provision shall not prohibit the placement,
use and maintenance of warning signs designating street construction
or repair and/or the location of underground utility lines,
c.
Any flags, pennants, sign, handbill, campaign sign, poster or notice
of any kind that is placed upon a public street or public property
in violation of this subsection is declared to be a public nuisance
and may be summarily abated in addition to other remedies provided
by this code,
2.
Roof
signs, except mansard roof signs,
3.
Projecting.
Signs projecting more than thirty-six inches from the face of a building
shall not be allowed except for awning or canopy signs,
4.
Signs
on Vehicles. No vehicle may be used as a platform or substitute for
a billboard, freestanding sign or movable sign, whether parked on
private property or the public right-of-way. The parking of any such
vehicle on any street or on public or private property, or the movement
of any such vehicle in and/or along any street for the sole or primary
purpose of displaying advertising matter is declared to be a nuisance
and a violation of this Section. The following exceptions are permissible
under these regulations:
a.
The driving, operation and movement of vehicles displaying political
campaign advertisements for candidates for public office or for ballot
measures, provided the same is not otherwise prohibited by this section,
b.
The identification of a business enterprise upon a vehicle used primarily
for the purpose of and in the usual business of the owner for transporting
or servicing goods or persons for commercial or other business purposes,
provided that the identification is painted on or otherwise affixed
so as not to project from the usual profile of the vehicle,
c.
The incidental display of noncommercial stickers, plates, license
plate brackets and the like; or of customary small identifications
on license plate brackets or elsewhere, of vehicle manufacturers,
models or types of vehicles, or dealers or entities from whom vehicles
bearing the same were purchased or otherwise obtained,
d.
A single isolated movement of a sign or sign equipment or materials
from one place to another within the city,
e.
Vehicles located on construction sites that are directly involved
with ongoing construction,
5.
Miscellaneous
Temporary Signs and Posters. The tacking, posting or otherwise affixing
of signs of a miscellaneous character, visible from a public way,
located on the walls of buildings, barns or sheds, on trees, poles,
posts, fences, or other structures shall be prohibited, unless specifically
permitted by this chapter.
F.
Abandoned
Signs.
1.
In
addition to the other requirements imposed by this chapter, signs
advertising an activity, business, product or service no longer conducted
on the premises on which the sign is located, or sign frames, structural
members or supporting poles remaining unused for twelve months or
longer, shall be removed from the site. Signs will be considered abandoned
or dilapidated where the sign or any element of it is excessively
weathered or structurally unsound or where the copy can no longer
be seen or understood by a person with normal eyesight under normal
viewing conditions,
2.
This
provision may be waived for set periods of time at the discretion
of the community development director.
G.
General
advertising signs.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
A.
Generally.
When practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships or results inconsistent
with the general intent and stated purpose of this chapter occur by
reason of the strict application of the standards set forth in these
regulations, a sign variance may be requested.
B.
Application.
1.
A
request for a sign variance shall be made by submitting a completed
permit application form and appropriate filing fee to the community
development department, along with all supporting documentation pertinent
to the situation, such as maps, photographs or sketches.
2.
The
request for variance shall be set for public hearing on the earliest
available meeting date of the planning commission. The appellant shall
be notified in writing of the meeting date. Notice of the hearing
shall be published in a newspaper of general local circulation at
least ten days prior to the hearing. The hearing may be continued
from time to time.
C.
Required
Findings. The planning commission must make the following findings
in order to approve a sign variance:
1.
The
strict application of the standards contained in this chapter deprives
the appellant's property of privileges enjoyed by other property owners
in the same vicinity and under identical use classification due to
special circumstances applicable to the property including size, shape,
topography, location or surroundings; and
2.
The
variance does not constitute a grant of special privilege inconsistent
with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity with the
same use classifications as the subject property.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
A.
Appeals.
Any person aggrieved by an action of the planning commission, or by
city staff, may make an appeal of that decision. Appeals of decisions
made by the planning department staff shall be submitted to the planning
commission. Appeals of decisions made by the planning commission shall
be submitted to the city clerk for review by the city council. Decisions
of the city council are final, with the exception of coastal zone
appealable areas. Decisions of approval for sign development(s) within
the coastal zone appealable area may be appealed to the California
Coastal Commission. Decisions of denial for development within such
zones are final.
B.
Application
for Appeal. Application for appeal is made by filing a written request
for appeal, along with any required appeal filing fee, within ten
days of the action. The request must specify:
1.
The
person making the appeal, and their place of residence; and
2.
The
location of the proposed sign(s); and
3.
The
specific items of appeal and all supporting documentation; and
4.
The
basis for the appeal, and any information substantiating that basis
(for example, failure to comply with the city's general plan or with
state or local laws, or reasons why the action would adversely affect
surrounding property, the neighborhood or the city); and
5.
The
relief of action sought.
C.
Appeal
Process.
1.
Who
May Appeal. In case the applicant or any other person is not satisfied
with any decision to approve or deny a sign permit, they may appeal
such decision as provided in this subsection.
2.
Appeal
Letter Requirements. The appeal letter shall specify:
a.
The person making the appeal;
b.
The specific items of appeal and all supporting documentation;
c.
The basis for such appeal and information substantiating the basis
for appeal (e.g., failure to comply with the city's general plan,
state or local laws or stating reasons why the action of the planning
director or the planning commission would adversely affect surrounding
property, the neighborhood, and/or the city);
d.
The relief of action sought.
3.
Where
and How to Appeal.
a.
Decisions of the planning director may be appealed to the planning
commission, and decisions of the planning commission may be appealed
to the city council. Any appeal must be submitted in writing within
ten calendar days of the decision and shall be accompanied by an appeal
filing fee. Appeals of decisions of the planning director shall be
submitted to the planning commission. Appeals of decisions of the
planning commission shall be submitted to the city clerk. The appeal
shall be agendized for consideration on the earliest available meeting
date as determined by the city, but no later than thirty days from
receipt of the appeal and filing fee. The appellant shall be notified
in writing of the meeting date. In an appeal, the burden of proof
is upon the appellant.
b.
The appropriate reviewing authority shall consider the appeal and
the record upon which the action appealed from was taken, and may,
at its own discretion, cause the matter to be set for a public hearing.
c.
If the appropriate reviewing authority causes the matter to be set
for a public hearing, notice of the hearing shall be given by publication
in a newspaper of general circulation, printed and published in the
city, at least ten days before the hearing. The hearing may be continued
from time to time.
d.
Within thirty days of the filing of the notice of appeal, the appropriate
reviewing authority shall render its decision on the matter. Failure
of the appropriate reviewing authority to render its decision on the
matter within thirty days of the filing of the notice of appeal shall
be deemed to be denial of the appeal and an affirmation of the action
of the planning commission. The decision of the city council upon
appeal is final and conclusive as to all things involved in the matter.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
The following signs are permitted in the city's residentially
zoned districts (CZ-R1, CZ-R1B):;ml1;
A.
1.
Institutional
uses such as churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, community centers
and/or public agency buildings such as fire or police stations may
have wall, ground or monument signs with an area not to exceed one-half
square foot of sign area for each linear foot of street frontage.
2.
For
parcels with multiple street frontages the allowable sign area shall
be one-half square foot for each linear foot of the longest street
frontage plus one-quarter square foot for each additional linear foot
of frontage.
3.
A
sign permit shall be required for these uses, unless the entity or
agency is categorically exempt.
B.
Apartment
complexes with four or more units may have one monument sign per street
frontage not to exceed twenty-four square feet of area and five feet
in height. A sign permit shall be required.
C.
Approved
and licensed home occupations, including day care homes, shall be
allowed one nameplate not to exceed two square feet in size, stating
the occupant's name, address and/or profession. A sign permit shall
not be required for the nameplate.
D.
Bed
and Breakfast Establishments. Bed and breakfast establishments within
residential zones may be permitted one sign per establishment. The
sign may be one of the following:
1.
One
sign not to exceed twenty square feet in size. The sign may be a wall
sign, hanging sign, or ground or monument sign not to exceed five
feet in height. The sign shall be constructed of nonplastic materials,
and only low-level lighting exterior illumination to light the sign
shall be permitted. The sign must have approval of the community development
department, and a sign permit shall be required.
2.
One
nameplate sign, made of nonplastic materials, not to exceed two square
feet in size. The name-plate may bear the proprietor's name, address,
and/or the name of the establishment. A sign permit shall not be required
for the nameplate.
E.
Exempt
signs (no permit required).
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
A.
Sign
Types Permitted. The following signs are permitted for licensed businesses
in the city's coastal zone commercial-waterfront zoning districts
(CZ-CW):
1.
Wall
signs;
2.
Canopy
signs;
3.
Marquee
signs;
4.
Monument
or ground signs not to exceed five feet in height;
5.
Institutional
uses such as churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, community centers
and/or public agency buildings such as fire or police stations may
have a ground or monument sign. A sign permit is required for these
uses;
6.
Hanging
signs;
7.
Projecting
signs;
8.
Window
signs;
9.
Exempt
signs. No permit required.
C.
Allowable
Sign Area.
1.
The
allowable sign area for nonresidential uses is not to exceed one square
foot of sign area for each linear foot of street frontage.
2.
For
parcels with multiple street frontages the allowable sign area shall
be one square foot for each linear foot of the longest street frontage
plus one-half square foot for each additional linear foot of frontage.
3.
No
sign for any business shall exceed one hundred square feet, nor shall
any business be restricted to less than twenty square feet of total
sign area.
4.
Buildings
with over thirty thousand square feet of floor area shall be allowed
to have one onehundred-fifty-square-foot wall sign. Such sign shall
be included in the total sign area for the parcel.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
A.
Sign
Types Permitted. The following signs are permitted for licensed businesses
in the city's coastal zone general commercial (CZ-C2), coastal zone
highway services (CZ-HS), coastal zone harbor-related (CZ-HR) and
coastal zone harbor dependent (CZ-HD) zoning districts:
1.
Wall
signs;
2.
Awning
or canopy signs;
3.
Marquee
signs;
4.
Monument
or ground signs not to exceed ten feet in height;
5.
Institutional
uses such as churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, community centers
and/or public agency buildings such as fire or police stations may
have a ground or monument sign. A sign permit is required for these
uses;
6.
Hanging
signs;
7.
Projecting
signs;
8.
Window
signs;
9.
Changeable
copy signs;
10.
Pole signs;
11.
Banners. One promotional banner per street frontage. The banner must
be mounted flat against the building, and must be maintained in a
good condition. Tattered or torn banners must be removed;
12.
Exempt signs. No permit required.
B.
Use
Permit Required. Twirlers or spinners are prohibited in these zones
unless a use permit has first been approved by the planning commission.
C.
Allowable
Sign Area.
1.
The
allowable sign area for businesses in the coastal zone general commercial
(CZ-C2), coastal zone highway services (CZ-HS), coastal zone harbor-related
(CZ-HR) and coastal zone harbor dependent (CZ-HD) districts is not
to exceed one and one-half square feet of sign area for each linear
foot of street frontage.
2.
Every
business shall be permitted at least twenty square feet of sign area.
No sign may exceed one hundred fifty square feet of sign area, with
the exception of buildings of greater than thirty thousand square
feet in size, which are permitted to have one wall sign of two hundred
square feet.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
All signs shall be subject to the following restrictions upon
illumination:
A.
Light
from any illuminated sign shall be shaded, shielded or directed so
that its intensity or brightness shall not be objectionable to surrounding
areas and uses.
B.
Except
for public service signs such as time and temperature units and official
traffic signs, no flashing lights, beacons or other interrupted illuminating
devices shall be permitted.
C.
Illuminated
signs are prohibited except in commercial districts.
D.
Illuminated
signs shall not be lighted at night unless the service or product
is available at that time.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
A.
Murals.
Murals with no commercial message shall be allowed in all nonresidential
zones, and on commercial use buildings in the residential-professional
zones. The design must have the approval of the architectural review
committee. All murals shall be maintained in a clean and tidy condition.
B.
Vertical
Banners. Decorative banners with no commercial message, designed to
enhance the community's appearance, may be erected by not-for-profit
agencies on the city's street light poles. Such banners may also be
displayed by private businesses on poles located on private property.
Approval must first be granted by the city council who may ask to
see a sample banner before making their decision. The banners must
be maintained in a good condition, with any torn or tattered banners
being removed or repaired promptly. The city reserves the right to
have any such banner(s) removed if it is felt that it no longer contributes
to the aesthetic enhancement of the community.
C.
Horizontal
Banners. Street banners advertising public entertainment, community
events or celebrations, or fund-raising events by community-oriented
not-for-profit organizations may be installed if approved by the public
works department at locations designated by the public works director.
The banners may be installed fourteen days before the event begins,
and must be removed no later than seven days after the end of the
event. A Cal-Trans encroachment permit must be obtained if the banner
will encroach upon a state highway.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
Except for the regulation relating to construction, maintenance,
public nuisance and safety the following types of nonilluminated signs
shall be allowed without a sign permit and shall not be included in
the determination of the type, number or area of signs allowed per
business or parcel, or by zoning district:
A.
Nameplates.
Nameplate signs not exceeding two square feet in display surface,
and which are attached flat against the building. One per residential
dwelling unit, office or business;
B.
Public
Signs. Signs of a public, noncommercial nature which are placed by
a duly recognized governmental agency, including, but not limited
to directional signs, safety signs, handicapped parking signs and
signs identifying places of scenic or historical interest;
C.
Rental,
or Room and Board Signs. One sign per frontage, not exceeding four
square feet in area, announcing room and board, room, apartment or
other dwelling unit for rent;
D.
Directional
Signs. One sign not to exceed three square feet per entrance or exit,
indicating traffic movement onto, from or within a premises;
E.
Construction
Signs. Signs identifying the names of the architects, engineers, contractors
or other involved professionals of a building, development or subdivision
under construction, alteration, repair or formation. The signs may
also identify the character of the enterprise or the purpose for which
the building or development is intended. Such signs may be placed
on the property or attached to the outside of the building or on-site
construction office only during the period of time when the project
is actively under construction. Such signs may not exceed thirty-two
square feet in any commercial zone, or nine square feet in any residential
zone, except as required by any governmental entity. The sign(s) must
be removed before a certificate of occupancy will be issued;
F.
Real
Estate and Subdivision Signs. One unlighted sign per frontage stating
that the site is for rent or sale by the owner or named agent and
giving information regarding size, price and terms. Such signs may
be placed in the yard or attached to the outside of the building.
Freestanding real estate signs may not exceed three and one-half feet
in height from the ground level to the top of the sign. Real estate
signs may not exceed nine square feet in area. Real estate signs larger
than nine square feet will require a building permit;
G.
Political
Campaign Signs.
1.
It
is the intent of this code to exempt campaign signs from the regulations
of this chapter relative to the placement of general advertising signs
in all zones of the city, and to thereby encourage participation by
the electorate in political activity during the period of political
campaigns, but to permit such uses subject to regulations that will
assure that political signs will be located, constructed and removed
in a manner so as to assure the public safety and general welfare
and to avoid the creation of a public nuisance caused by the proliferation
of political advertising which would be offensive to the senses and
would interfere with the comfort and enjoyment of life or property.
It is the purpose of the council, in adopting this chapter to provide
such regulations as will contribute to the public safety and general
welfare and insure the right of political expression to all members
of the community,
2.
Signs
or posters announcing candidates seeking elective office, or encouraging
a particular stance on a measure before the popular vote. Each sign
located on private property, shall be placed only with the permission
of the property owner or tenant, and posted in such a way as to not
constitute a public nuisance or safety hazard, and may not block the
views of vehicular traffic or obstruct the public right-of-way,
3.
Campaign
Signs in a Public Right-of-Way. Notwithstanding any other provision
of this code, a campaign sign may be placed in the public right-of-way
adjacent to a public street in commercially or industrially zoned
areas or along prime or major arterials in residentially zoned areas
subject to the following restrictions:
a.
No sign shall be attached to any utility pole, public structure,
pole or structure supporting a traffic-control sign or device, or
hydrant,
b.
No sign shall be placed on any tree or shrub by any nail, tack, spike
or other method that will cause physical harm to the tree or shrub,
c.
No sign shall be placed in such a manner as to obstruct the public
use of the sidewalk or interfere with the visibility of persons operating
motor vehicles or constitute a hazard to persons using the public
road or right-of-way,
d.
No sign shall be placed in the roadway or on the sidewalk,
e.
No sign shall be placed in that portion of the public right-of-way
or easement past the sidewalk without the consent of the adjoining
property owner or person in possession if different from the owner,
4.
No
political sign shall be posted more than forty-five days prior to,
or ten days following an election;
H.
No
Trespassing Signs. One sign per street frontage, not to exceed four
square feet in area indicating limitation on the use of private property
by other than the owners. If more than one sign per frontage is needed
the property owner or business person may apply to the planning commission
for a use permit;
I.
Customer
or Tenant Parking Only Signs. One sign per street frontage, not to
exceed four square feet in area. The sign shall contain any of the
following appropriate restrictions:
1.
Customer
parking only,
2.
Tenant
parking only, or
3.
Private
property, no parking, The sign shall also contain the telephone number
of the city police department. The lettering on the sign must contrast
with the background of the sign and be at least two inches high, and
made with a one-half inch stroke. The sign shall also contain the
words "Violators May Be Towed." If more than one sign per frontage
is needed the property owners or business person may apply for a use
permit;
J.
Window
signs;
K.
Awning
or canopy signs;
L.
Corporate
flags and governmental flags;
M.
Garage
Sale, Moving Sale, or Yard Sale Signs. Signs announcing the date(s)
and location of a garage sale, moving sale or yard sale. Such signs
shall not be posted in a manner which will block a public right-of-way,
or which will block the vision of vehicular traffic. The signs must
be removed once the date of the sale is passed;
N.
Banners.
One banner advertising products or services for sale on the premises
per street frontage per business;
O.
Barbershop
Poles. Barber poles projecting not over eighteen inches from the face
of the building where the barbershop is located or not projecting
into the public right-of-way;
P.
Holiday
Decorations. Displays of a decorative, noncommercial nature for the
purpose of celebrating a seasonal, political or religious holiday
or a recognized community celebration, in season, for an aggregate
period of not more than sixty days in one calendar year;
Q.
Temporary
or Seasonal Sales Booths. Signs including, but not limited to fireworks
stands, pumpkin sales, Christmas tree lots, community crafts fairs
and temporary certified farmer's markets;
R.
Community
or Special Event Signs, Including Banners. Signs and banners for noncommercial
promotional events of a civic, charitable, educational, religious
or community service organizations provided any applicable encroachment
permit has been obtained from other governmental entities having jurisdiction.
The signs or banners must be removed within fourteen days after the
event.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
Signs which have historical significance to the community but
do not conform to the provisions of these regulations may be issued
a permit to remain provided the planning commission makes the following
findings:
A.
The
sign has historical significance for the community.
B.
The
sign does not create a traffic hazard.
C.
The
sign does not create a visual nuisance to the character of the community.
D.
The
sign is properly maintained and structurally sound, or can be made
so as part of an historical designation or preservation process.
E.
The
sign does not adversely affect adjacent properties.
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
|
Single-Family Residential Zones (CZ-R1, CZ-R1B)
|
Apartments of four or more units
|
Commercial Waterfront (CZ-CW)
|
General Commercial and Highway Services (CZ-C2, CZ-HS)
|
Coastal Zone Harbor (CZ-HR, CZ-HD)
|
Bed and Breakfast Establishments
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
SIZE REGULATIONS
| ||||||
|
Nameplates, two sq. ft. of sign area, non-illuminated
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
|
X
|
|
One-half sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of frontage
plus one-forth sq. ft. of sign area for each ft. of frontage for multiple
frontages
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
|
|
|
One sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of frontage
|
|
|
X
|
|
|
|
|
One sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of frontage plus
one-half sq. ft. of sign area for each ft. of frontage for multiple
frontages
|
|
|
X
|
|
|
|
|
One and one-half sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of
frontage
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Projecting sign extending not more than thirty-six inches from
building
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
One sign not to exceed twenty sq. ft. in area
|
|
|
|
|
|
X
|
|
Maximum sign area one hundred sq. ft. per face
|
|
|
X
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum sign area one hundred and fifty sq. ft. per face
|
|
|
|
X
|
|
|
|
Construction signs not to exceed thirty-two sq. ft. in area
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Construction signs not to exceed nine sq. ft. in area
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
|
X
|
|
Real estate signs not to exceed nine sq. ft. in area and three
and one-half ft. in height
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
HEIGHT REGULATIONS:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thirty foot maximum to top of pole sign
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Fourteen ft. minimum to bottom of pole sign in a vehicular area
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Ten ft. minimum to bottom of pole sign in a pedestrian/landscaped
area
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Ground or monument sign not to exceed five ft. in height and
twenty sq. ft in area
|
|
|
|
|
|
X
|
|
Ground of monument sign not to exceed five ft. in height and
twenty-four sq. ft. in area
|
|
X
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ground or monument sign not to exceed five ft. in height
|
|
|
X
|
|
|
|
|
Ground or monument sign not to exceed ten ft. in height
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
One pole sign per parcel
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
SIGN TYPE REGULATIONS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Wall signs
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Awning or canopy signs
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Marquee signs
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Monument or ground signs
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Hanging signs
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Projecting signs
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Window signs
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Changeable copy signs
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Pole signs
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Banners
|
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
|
|
Nameplate signs
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
Illuminated signs
|
|
|
X
|
X
|
X
|
|
(Ord. of 2-22-2011(1))
