These sections are intended to implement the city's land use
and environmental goals, policies and objectives, with particular
regard to maintaining a city that is visually attractive and to preserving
and enhancing the visual qualities of the community's streets and
highways. Standards are provided to safeguard the life, health, property,
and public welfare by regulating the design, quality of materials
and construction, illumination, location and maintenance of all signs,
sign structures and billboards, while attempting to provide functional
flexibility and create an incentive to promote good design.
(Prior code § 9350; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993)
This chapter shall apply to all signs within the city. The goals
of these regulations include the following:
A.
To
preserve and enhance the unique character and visual appearance of
the city;
B.
To
assure proper expression through visual communications involving signs
that are compatible with the character and environment of this community;
C.
To
promote fairness in competition and retain identity in the business
community while recognizing the importance of-well designed business
signs;
D.
To
enhance the visual quality of the city's scenic streets;
E.
To
recognize the integral part played by signs in the overall appearance
of the city;
F.
To
reduce possible traffic and safety hazards by prohibiting signs that
are distracting to motorists;
G.
To
recognize the functions and importance of signs for businesses and
the benefit of well designed business signs to the community as a
whole;
H.
To
provide guidance and direction for sign users and sign designers as
to what constitutes appropriate signs in the city;
I.
To
establish standards that will encourage business signs to be used
for the purpose of business identification.
(Prior code § 9351; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993)
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 17.02.060, for the purposes of this chapter, the following words and phrases are defined as follows:
means any balloon, flag, pennant, or propeller, oscillating,
rotating, or pulsating light; or other contrivance except a sign used
to attract attention for the purpose of promoting the sale of products.
means any device, contrivance, statue, structure or sign
used as a display, regardless of size or shape, for the purpose of
attracting attention or making anything known, the origin or place
of sale of which is on the property with such advertising display.
"Sign area" means the area of a sign within a single continuous
perimeter of not more than eight straight lines enclosing the extreme
limits of writing, representation, emblem, or any figure of similar
character, together with any material or color forming an integral
part of the display or used to differentiate such sign from the background
against which it is placed. In the case of a sign designed with more
than one exterior surface, the area shall be computed as including
only the maximum single display surface which is visible from any
ground position at any one time. The supports, uprights, or structures
on which any such sign is supported shall not be included in determining
the sign area unless such supports, uprights, or structures are designed
in such a manner as to form an integral background of the display.
means a sign displaying information pertaining to goods,
services, or entertainment offered or produced by the business located
on the same property as the business sign, but not including advertising
devices or advertising displays.
means any sign incorporating any combination of the features
of freestanding, projecting and roof signs.
means a temporary sign stating the names of those individuals
or firms directly connected with the construction or development project,
their addresses and their telephone numbers.
means an on-site sign on private property, the sole purpose
of which is to direct the flow of traffic, transmit parking information
or convey-similar such information.
means the immediate source of illumination is not enclosed
by the surface of the sign structure.
means the outer surface of any main exterior wall or foundation
of a building, including windows and store fronts.
means a sign supported by uprights or braces placed upon
or into the ground and detached from any building.
means the greatest vertical distance measured from the ground
level directly beneath the sign to the top of the sign.
means a sign limited to the identifying name, symbol or insignia,
or any combination thereof, of a building, use or persons occupying
the premises on which the sign is located.
means a sign stating the hours of operation of a business,
emergency telephone numbers, credit card usage, or other information
of a similar nature.
means the immediate source of illumination is completely
enclosed by the surface of the sign structure.
means a low-profile ground sign incorporating the design
and building material of the primary use of the property. No poles
for the support of the sign face shall be permitted, and the base
of such sign shall be at least 50% of the dimension of the width of
the sign face.
means a sign stating only the name of the occupant and his
or her occupation or specialty.
means an illuminated sign affected by a colorless, odorless
light source consisting of a neon or gas tube which is bent to form
letters, symbols or other shapes.
means a sign placed for the purpose of advertising products
or services that are not produced, stored, or sold on the property
upon which the sign is located. This shall also mean a billboard.
means any sign which is intended to be movable or capable
of being moved, whether or not on wheels or other special supports,
including, but not limited to, A-frame type signs. Portable or movable
signs also include placards, signs, banners or similar devices attached
to vehicles for advertising purposes, unless such devices are an integral
part of such vehicle used in the normal course of business. This definition
does not include real estate advertising signs or political signs.
means a sign limited to the name or identification of items,
products or services offered for sale on the premises and the price
of the items or products.
means a sign other than a wall sign suspended from or supported
by a building or structure and projecting outward more than six inches
therefrom.
means a temporary sign advertising the sale, lease, or rental
of the property upon which it is located, and the identification of
the person or firm handling such sale, lease, or rental.
"Private right-of-way" means an off-street parking area for
a business or group of businesses that does not abut a public right-of-way
and is not located within 200 feet of any property zoned for residential
uses.
means a sign affixed on, above, or over the roof of any building
so that it projects more than three feet above the-lowest point of
the roof of such building.
means a building used by one occupant for an individual business.
means an off-site sign used for the purpose of providing
travel directions to a subdivision development offered for sale or
lease for the first time.
means a portable sign affixed to or inside a vehicle for
the purpose of directing people to a business in close proximity to
where the vehicle is parked.
means a sign attached to or erected on the exterior wall
of the building or structure or on a canopy marquee or similar overhang
with the exposed face of the sign in a plane approximately parallel
to the plane of the exterior wall and not extending more than three
feet above the lowest point of the roof of such building or structure.
means a sign directing attention to the principal business,
profession or industry attached to or within three feet of the inside
of the window upon the premises where the sign is displayed, or to
the type of products sold, manufactured or assembled, or to services
or entertainment offered on the premises.
(Prior code § 9352; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993)
Except for those signs allowed under the provisions of Section 17.52.050, the following signs are prohibited:
A.
Outdoor
advertising displays, structures or signs;
B.
Portable
signs;
C.
Exposed
neon, flashing or scintillating signs, except for public service time
and temperature signs, which shall not be flashing, animated or revolving
in nature;
D.
Revolving
signs;
E.
Devices
dispensing bubbles and free floating particles of matter;
F.
Any
notice, placard, bill, card, poster, sticker, banner, sign, advertising
or other device affixed or attached to or upon any public street,
walkway, crosswalk, other rights-of-way, curb, lamppost, hydrant,
tree, telephone booth or pole, lighting system or any fixture of the
police or fire alarm system;
G.
Devices
projecting or otherwise producing the image of an advertising sign
or message on any surface or object;
H.
Projecting
signs;
I.
Signs
which project or encroach into any existing or future street right-of-way;
J.
Automatic
changing signs or electronic message center signs, except for public
service time and temperature signs, except as otherwise provided allowed
by the Malibu Middle and High School Campus Specific Plan;
K.
Streamers,
banners, balloons, flares, flags, pennants, propellers, twirlers,
and similar attention-getting display or device with the exception
of the following:
1.
One
each national, state, and local governmental flag properly displayed
upon a maximum of one flagpole per flag not to exceed 28 feet in height,
2.
Holiday
decorations, in season, displayed for an aggregate period not exceeding
60 days in any one calendar year, except no advertising of the business
or products shall be permitted,
3.
Grand
opening and special event displays approved by the director in the
manner hereinafter provided;
L.
Except
as hereinafter provided, freestanding or pole signs, except for on-site
directional signs;
M.
A vehicle-related
portable freestanding sign or any sign placed within, affixed or attached
to any vehicle or trailer on a public right-of-way, or on public or
private property, for the purpose of advertising an event or attracting
people to a place of business, unless the vehicles or trailer is used
in its normal business capacity and not for the primary purpose of
advertising an event or attracting people to a place of business;
N.
Signs
or sign structures which by color, wording or locations resemble or
conflict with traffic control signs or devices;
O.
Signs
that create a safety hazard by obstructing the view of pedestrian
or vehicular traffic;
P.
Sign
structures and supports no longer in use, for a period of 60 days
by the owner, tenant, or lessee;
Q.
Signs
painted directly on an exterior wall, fence, fascia or parapet;
R.
Signs
that display a message or graphic representation that is lewd, indecent,
or offensive to public morals;
S.
Signs
for the purpose of commercial advertising created by the arrangement
of vegetation, rocks, or other objects such as on a hillside visible
to pedestrians or motorists;
T.
Roof
signs;
U.
Combination
signs;
V.
Signs
which are enacted after the effective date of the ordinance codified
in this chapter that do not conform to the provisions of these section
are prohibited.
(Prior code § 9353; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993; Ord. 501 § 5, 2022)
A.
Application.
No person shall place, erect, modify, alter or repaint, or permit
the placement, erection, modification, alteration or repainting of
any sign, unless otherwise specifically exempted by this chapter,
without first obtaining a sign permit in accordance with the provisions
of this section. The application for such sign permit shall be made
on the form provided by the planning department and shall be accompanied
by the required fee. Such application shall set forth and contain
the following information and materials:
1.
The
location and size of any existing or proposed buildings or structures
on the property, which are or will be under the ownership or control
of the applicant;
2.
The
location of off-street parking facilities, including major points
of entry and exit for motor vehicles where directional signs are propose;
3.
The
position of the proposed sign and its relationship to existing or
proposed adjacent buildings and structures which are or will be under
the ownership or control of the applicant;
4.
The
proposed design, size, exact colors, materials and location of the
sign or sign structure;
5.
The
method of attachment to any structure;
6.
A
statement showing sizes and dimensions of all other signs existing
on the property under the ownership or control of the applicant;
7.
A
statement showing the size and color relationships of such sign or
sign structure to the appearance and design of existing or proposed
buildings and structures on the property;
8.
Photographs
of all sides of any building or renderings of proposed buildings;
9.
Such
other information as the planning department may require to secure
compliance with this chapter.
B.
Review. An application for a sign permit for the placement or erection of a new sign or the modification, alteration or repainting of an existing sign shall be reviewed by the director. The director shall approve the application if the director finds that such application satisfies the criteria set forth in subsection C of this section. Any decision made by the director may be appealed in accordance with the provisions of this title.
C.
Criteria.
The following criteria shall be used in reviewing an application for
a sign permit:
1.
That
any business sign is necessary for the applicant's enjoyment of substantial
trade and property rights;
2.
That
the sign is consistent with the general plan and the provisions of
the municipal code;
3.
That
the sign is not detrimental to the public health, safety, or welfare;
4.
That
the size, shape, color, and placement of the sign is compatible with
the building it identifies;
5.
That
the size, shape, color, and placement of the sign is compatible with
the neighborhood and other lawful signs in the area;
6.
That
both the location of the proposed sign and the design of its visual
elements (lettering, words, figures, colors, decorative motifs, spacing,
and proportions are legible under normal viewing conditions prevailing
where the sign is to be installed;
7.
That
the location and design of the proposed sign does not obscure from
view or unduly detract from existing or adjacent signs;
8.
That
the location and design of the proposed sign, its size, shape, illumination,
and color are compatible with the visual characteristics of the surrounding
area so as not to detract from or cause depreciation of the value
or quality of adjacent properties; and
9.
That
the location and design of a proposed sign in close proximity to any
residential district does not adversely affect the quality or character
of such residential area.
D.
Exemptions
to Sign Permit Requirement.
1.
The
following signs, if not illuminated, shall be permitted without the
requirement of a sign permit in all land use zones:
a.
One identification sign not exceeding two square feet in area displaying
only the name and/or address of the owner, occupant or use, except
that agricultural uses may have one identification sign not exceeding
six square feet in area;
b.
Directional or safety signs required by law;
c.
One each national, state, and local governmental flag properly displayed
upon a maximum of one per pole, not to exceed 28 feet in height;
d.
Holiday decorations, in season, displayed for an aggregate period
not exceeding 60 days in any one calendar year;
e.
Religious, charitable, civic, home-owners association, educational
or cultural posters, affixed to a building wall or window area, not
exceeding 16 square feet in area which are installed in a temporary
condition;
f.
Utility and telephone pay station signs;
g.
Official traffic, fire and police related signs, temporary traffic
control signs used during construction, utility facilities and substructure
location and identification signs and markers required to protect
the facilities, and other signs and markers required or authorized
by the city, the State Department of Transportation, or any other
public agency;
h.
Notices required to be posted by law;
i.
Signs for Public or Quasi-Public Use. Directional and public convenience
signs for public and quasi-public uses may be permitted on public
property. The design of such signs shall conform to standard directional
sign specifications promulgated by the director and approved by the
planning commission. The total number of signs allowed shall be based
on the minimum number necessary for adequate public identification
as determined by the director.
2.
Residential
Land Use Districts.
a.
Nameplates. Each residential dwelling is permitted one nameplate
per street frontage indicating the names of the residence/ occupants
and/or the street address of the residence. The sign shall not exceed
two square feet in area.
b.
Agricultural Uses. Each agricultural use is permitted one unilluminated
sign indicating the name and address of such use. Such sign shall
not exceed six square feet in area and if located on a fence or stake,
shall not be more than six feet in height.
c.
Real Estate Advertising Signs. One unilluminated, double-faced real
estate advertising sign is permitted, not to exceed six square feet
in area and six feet in height. Such sign shall contain information
restricted to the sale or rental of the premises on which located.
Such sign shall be situated no less than five feet from the inside
line of the sidewalk, or if there is no sidewalk, from the property
line. Such sign shall remain on the premises only during the period
of time that the premises are being offered for sale and in any event
shall be removed seven days after the property is sold or rented or
the offer for sale or rent is terminated.
d.
Open House Signs. During the period when real estate is offered for
sale or rent and while a salesperson is physically present on the
premises, a sign indicating that an open house is being conducted
is permitted, the sign shall not exceed three square feet in area;
and if located on a stake, no part of the sign shall exceed four feet
above ground level. Off-site directional signs may be permitted for
an open house, subject to the following provisions:
i.
Such signs shall not exceed three square feet in area;
ii.
No more than two pole flags not exceeding two square feet or five
feet in height shall be used;
iii.
Such signs shall be located on private property only;
iv.
Such signs shall be allowed only during daylight hours;
v.
Such signs shall be located not less than five feet from the inside
line of the sidewalk or, if there is no sidewalk, from the property
line.
e.
Signs for Special Events. Temporary signs not exceeding 16 square
feet in area pertaining to events of civic, philanthropic, educational
or religious organizations may be permitted; provided, that such signs
are posted for no more than 30 days prior to and seven days after
such event.
f.
Garage Sale Signs. One non illuminated double-faced sign is permitted
during the time of a garage sale. Such sign shall not exceed six square
feet in area and, if located on a fence or stake, shall not be more
than six feet in height. In addition, off-site directional signs may
be permitted during the same period subject to the following provisions:
3.
Multiple
Residential Districts.
a.
Purpose. In authorizing signs for this zone, it is recognized that
larger residential complexes and other permitted uses require identification
as separate identities. The intent of these regulations is to strive
for a single sign per complex or use to eliminate clutter and to promote
compatibility, proportion, simplicity and sign effectiveness.
b.
Signs - Apartments. One monument identification sign not exceeding
48 square feet in area, including the base, and six feet in height
may be erected on the public street frontage upon which the apartment
complex has access. Such sign shall be set back a minimum of five
feet from any property line. In addition, a directory sign not exceeding
one square foot of sign area per apartment and five feet in height
may be installed on each building wall facing a public street upon
which the apartment complex has access.
c.
Signs - Condominiums. One monument identification sign not exceeding
48 square feet in area, including the base, and six feet in height
may be erected on each public street frontage upon which the complex
has public access. Such signs shall be set back from any property
line at least five feet. In addition, interior directional signs which
are visible from any public right-of-way, may be approved by the director
to identify special elements of such complexes such as clubhouses
and other common area facilities provided that such signs do not exceed
six square feet in area and four feet in height. Interior directional
signs not visible from any public right-of-way shall not be subject
to the requirements of this subdivision.
d.
Other Permitted Uses. For each nonresidential use not more than one
monument identification sign per public street frontage upon which
such use has public access may be erected to identify the use; provided,
that such sign does not exceed 48 square feet in area, including the
base, and six feet in height. Such signs shall be set back a minimum
of five feet from any property line.
e.
Real Estate Advertising Signs. One real estate sign is permitted
per unit being offered for sale, lease or rent. Such signs shall not
exceed six square feet in area and six feet in height, and shall be
designed and located in a manner approved by the director. Such sign
shall be removed with seven days after the property is sold or rented
or the offer for sale or rent is terminated. Property shall be deemed
to be sold upon the close of escrow.
f.
Signs for Special Events. Temporary signs not exceeding 16 square
feet in area pertaining to events of civic, philanthropic, educational
or religious organizations may be permitted; provided, that such signs
are posted for no more than 30 days prior to and seven days after
the event.
E.
Special
Permits. Nothing contained in this chapter shall prohibit the city
from granting a temporary special permit or otherwise permitting,
on such terms as it deems proper, sign or like advertising pertaining
to any civic, patriotic or special event of general public interest
provided that the council finds that such signs or advertising will
not be materially detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare,
nor harmful to adjacent properties or uses. The director may grant
minor special permits. These signs shall be limited to a maximum of
two per parcel and shall not exceed 16 square feet in size. These
signs shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from any public right-of-way.
(Prior code § 9354; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993)
A.
Entitlements
Strictly Construed. Since the regulations provided by this chapter
are established to protect and promote the public health, safety,
and general welfare, any sign entitlement authorized hereunder shall
be strictly construed to further the purposes of this chapter.
B.
Sign
Integration Requirement. All signs shall be designed as an integral
part of the total building design.
D.
Sign Orientation. All signs shall face a public or private right-of-way,
either on or abutting the property upon which such signs are located.
E.
Number
of Colors. All permanent signs shall contain no more than four different
colors. For the purposes of this provision, white and black shall
be considered colors. Different shades shall be considered separate
colors. A logo is not subject to the four-color limitation.
1.
Shopping
Center Signs. All signs in shopping centers shall comply with each
of the following:
a.
Each sign shall contain one or two of the same four colors as every
other sign throughout the center.
b.
All sign components shall have the same, subdued and uniform background
in terms of color, illumination and material.
c.
All lettering shall be the same style and color as other signs in
the center.
d.
A logo shall not be larger than 25% of the sign area and is not subject
to the four-color limitation.
e.
The sign structure and any related supports shall be the same color
and material throughout the center.
F.
Sign
Copy. Not more than 25% of the total area of any sign shall include
descriptive wording which is not a part of the name of the business.
G.
Types
of Materials. The types of materials for sign structures shall, if
possible and practicable, be similar to or the same as materials used
in the related buildings.
H.
Illumination
of Signs. Unless otherwise prohibited by this chapter, signs may be
illuminated subject to the approval of the director to ensure that
such illumination does not interfere with the use and enjoyment of
adjacent properties or create any public safety hazards. The approval
of any illuminated sign shall not be final until 30 days after installation
during which period the director may order the dimming of any illumination
found to be excessively brilliant, and no sign approval shall be valid
until such order has been carried out to the satisfaction of the director.
Illumination shall be considered when it prevents perception of objects
or building beyond or in the vicinity of the sign. In no case shall
an illuminated sign or lighting device be so placed or directed as
to permit the beams and/or illumination therefrom to be directed or
beamed upon a public street, walkway, or adjacent properties so as
to cause glare or reflection that may constitute a traffic or safety
hazard or interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties.
Except for automated teller machines, no sign shall be illuminated
after eleven-thirty p.m. or close of business, whichever occurs last.
In no event shall the following limits be exceeded:
I.
Obstruction
of Public Passage. No signs shall be installed so as to obstruct any
window, door, fire escape or other emergency exit of any building.
J.
Required
Information on Signs. All permanent signs approved under these regulation
shall have the name of the maker, the date of installation and the
city sign permit number legibly placed on the lower right hand corner
of the face of the sign in a conspicuous place. As an alternative,
such information may be placed on the base of the sign at a location
visible and readable from the adjacent public or private right-of-way.
K.
Maintenance
of Signs. All signs shall be maintained in a neat and attractive,
well-repaired condition.
L.
Substitution
Clause. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, any noncommercial
copy may be substituted for any commercial copy on any sign permitted
by this code. If noncommercial copy is substituted, the resulting
sign will continue to be treated as the original commercial sign under
this code and will not be deemed or treated as an outdoor advertising
display. The content of any noncommercial copy on any sign otherwise
permitted by this code may be changed without complying with any provisions
of this code normally required for sign copy or design approval.
(Prior code § 9355; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993; Ord. 223 § 3, 2001; Ord. 278U § 2, 2005; Ord. 280U § 1, 2005; Ord. 285 § 3,
2005)
The sign entitlements provided by this section shall be considered
the maximum permitted sign entitlements under this chapter. Such sign
entitlements may be reduced as a condition of approval for the sign
permit for a particular sign or signs if necessary to satisfy the
sign criteria set forth in this chapter.
A.
Commercial
Land Use Districts.
1.
Purpose.
The purpose of sign regulation in the commercial and business land
use zones is to limit the number of signs per complex to eliminate
clutter and to promote compatibility, proportion, simplicity and sign
effectiveness.
2.
Basic
Sign Entitlement—Business Park and Retail Uses. Each separate
business shall be limited to one primary sign integrated into the
design of the building. Accessory signs shall be used only to improve
the effectiveness of the sign program in relationship to the mass
of the building or to indicate legitimate accessory uses. The signs
permitted under this subdivision shall be referred to as the "basic
sign entitlement." Except as otherwise provided by this chapter, the
following sign area limitations shall apply:
a.
The total aggregate area of a primary sign and accessory signs for
any business in a building located within 100 feet of any public or
private right-of-way shall not exceed one square foot of sign area
for each foot of primary building frontage. In no event, however,
shall sign area exceed 50 square feet and such sign shall be located
on primary frontage. In the event that one side of the building does
not abut a street and exceeds 125 feet in length, there shall be permitted
a total of one secondary sign on the building which shall not exceed
25 square feet in sign area. The secondary sign may be increased up
to 50 square feet in lieu of a primary sign. Such sign shall advertise
solely the name of the business center or primary tenant. No secondary
sign shall be illuminated. Unless otherwise approved by the planning
commission, no signs shall be closer than six feet from any other
sign permitted under this chapter. The maximum of any one dimension
shall not exceed 20% of the building wall, or 30 feet, whichever is
less.
b.
The total aggregate area of a primary sign and accessory signs for
any business in a building located more than 100 feet of any public
or private right-of-way shall not exceed one square foot of sign area
for each foot of primary building frontage. In no event, however,
shall such sign area exceed 70 square feet and such sign shall be
located on the primary frontage. In the event that one side of the
building does not abut a street and exceeds 125 feet in length, there
shall be permitted a total of one secondary sign on the building which
shall not exceed 35 square feet in sign area. The secondary sign may
be increased up to 70 square feet in lieu of a primary sign. Such
sign shall advertise solely the name of the business center or primary
tenant. No secondary sign shall be illuminated.
Unless otherwise approved by the planning commission, no signs
shall be closer than six feet from any other sign permitted under
this chapter. The maximum of any one dimension shall not exceed 20%
of the building wall, or 30 feet, whichever is less.
c.
For a single business totally occupying a commercial building, which
is not part of a larger complex, project, center or park, or an outdoor
display; and within the limitations of the provisions of subdivision
(2)(a) and (b) of this subsection, a freestanding monument sign is
permitted, subject to the following standards:
i.
The sign shall be a maximum of 48 square feet in area, including
the base.
ii.
The sign shall have a maximum height of six feet.
iii.
The sign shall be located a minimum of five feet from any public
or private right-of-way.
iv.
The maximum length of any side of the sign shall not exceed two times
the dimension of any other side.
d.
Major tenants in shopping centers which have a frontage greater than
100 feet are permitted to have a maximum sign area of 200 square feet.
e.
Business maintained exclusively on the second floor of a two-story
building may be allowed up to 10 square feet of sign area adjacent
to the first floor entrance. Second floor businesses sharing a common
entrance with one or more first floor businesses shall be limited
to a ten-square-foot directory sign at the first floor entrance.
3.
Basic
Sign Entitlement—Office Use. Office buildings shall be limited
to one primary sign solely to identify the name of the building integrated
into the design of the building. The signs permitted under this subdivision
shall be referred to as the "basic sign entitlement." Except as otherwise
provided by this chapter, the following sign area limitations shall
apply.
a.
The total aggregate area of a primary sign for any office building
located within 100 feet of any public or private right-of-way shall
not exceed one square foot of sign area for each foot of primary building
frontage. In no event, however, shall such sign area exceed 50 square
feet and such sign shall be located on the primary frontage. In the
event that one side of the building does not abut-a street and exceeds
125 feet in length, there shall be permitted a total of one secondary
sign on the building which shall not exceed 25 square feet in sign
area. The secondary sign may be increased up to 50 square feet in
lieu of a primary sign. Such sign shall advertise solely the name
of the office center or primary tenant. No secondary sign shall be
illuminated. Unless otherwise approved by the planning commission,
no signs shall be closer than six feet from any other sign permitted
under this chapter. The maximum of any one dimension shall not exceed
20% of the building wall, or 30 feet, whichever is less. The maximum
height of the sign shall be determined by the director.
b.
The total aggregate area of a primary sign and accessory signs for
a building located more than 100 feet of any public or private right-of-way
shall not exceed one square foot of sign area for each foot of primary
building frontage. In no event, however, shall such sign area exceed
70 square feet and such sign shall be located on the primary frontage.
In the event that one side of the building does not abut a street
and exceeds 125 feet in length, there shall be permitted a total of
one secondary sign on the building which shall not exceed 35 square
feet in sign area. The secondary sign may be increased up to 70 square
feet in-lieu of a primary sign. Such sign shall advertise solely the
name of the office center or primary tenant. No secondary sign shall
be illuminated. Unless otherwise approved by the planning commission,
no signs shall be closer than six feet from any other sign permitted
under this chapter. The maximum of any one dimension shall not exceed
20% of the building wall, or 30 feet, whichever is less The maximum
height of the sign shall be determined by the director.
c.
In lieu of a sign on the building as specified in subdivision (3)(a)
and (b) of this subsection, an office building is permitted to have
a freestanding monument sign. The sign shall be a monument sign not
exceeding 48 square feet in area, including the base, and a maximum
of six feet from any public right-of-way and shall be used solely
to identify the name of the office building.
4.
Frontage
on Two or More Streets. A business located in a building having frontage
on more than one public right-of-way may use the basic sign entitlement
on one frontage, and one-half of the allowance on the second public
frontage This allowance shall only be utilized on the frontage on
which the allowance is based. For purposes of this subdivision, frontage
shall include any entrance or exit to the premises upon which the
subject business is located from a public right-of-way even though
the subject business does not actually front such right-of-way. In
addition, a business with a public entrance on a secondary frontage
on a private right-of-way may have a sign located on such frontage
which does not exceed 10 square feet in area.
5.
Commercial
and Business Complex Center or Park. In addition to the basic sign
entitlement, any commercial and business complex, center or park which
has a common name and is in excess of two acres in area is permitted
one complex identification sign per 1,000 feet of public right-of-way.
The sign shall be a monument sign not exceeding 48 square feet in
area, including the base, and a maximum of six feet in height. Such
signs shall be set back a minimum of five feet from any public right-of-way
and shall be used solely to identify the complex, center or park.
Any commercial and business complex, center or park, in which buildings
are located 50 feet or more from public right-of-way, shall be allowed
one address monument sign, identifying solely the address of the property,
per main driveway, not to exceed a total of one sign per 500 feet
of public right-of-way. Address monument signs shall not exceed a
total of one sign per 500 feet of public right-of-way. Address monument
signs shall not exceed 16 square feet in area, including the base,
and shall not exceed five feet in height, and shall be set back a
minimum of five feet from any public right-of-way. Complex identification
signs and address monument signs may be combined, provided that the
combined complex/address sign not exceed 16 square feet in area, including
the base, and shall not exceed five feet in height, and shall be set
back a minimum distance of five feet from any public right-of-way.
6.
Early
Review. An application for the first new sign in a commercial or business
complex, center or park shall be accompanied by a sign program for
the entire complex, center or park in order that all future signs
are uniform and consistent with the requirements of this chapter.
7.
Prohibited
Locations. No signs shall be located in such a manner as to face in
the direction of or be visible to property in a residential district
when such sign would be less than 200 feet from such residential property
unless such sign faces and is parallel to a public right-of-way.
8.
Second-Story
Businesses. Businesses maintained exclusively on the second floor
of a two-story building may be allowed up to 10 square feet of the
sign area adjacent to the first floor entrance.
9.
Signs
for Pedestrian Traffic. Where the principal sign for a business is
located so that it cannot be seen by pedestrian traffic, an identification
sign, in addition to that otherwise allowed under this chapter, is
permitted. Such sign shall be no larger than three square feet per
side and shall be designed and located so as to not distract from
the appearance of the building or violate the purposes of this chapter.
10.
Signs Within Window Areas. Informational signs not to exceed a maximum
of five square feet of the window area of a business may be used.
Such signs shall be located on the inside of the window and shall
not require a sign permit, and shall not be used for the name of the
business in excess of 20% of the area.
11.
Sale/Special Event Signs. During the period of time that a sale of
goods or services is being conducted, one sale sign per window located
on the inside of such window is allowed on each public street frontage.
Such sign shall be in addition to the total authorized sign area but
shall not exceed 25% of the total window area. The sign shall be compatible
in terms of colors with the permanent signs, except fluorescent color
shall be prohibited. The sale/special event sign shall be limited
to a maximum 14 day period, not to exceed a total of four such events
per year.
12.
Listing of business Associates. In addition to the basic sign entitlement,
each separate business shall be allowed, without a sign permit, lettering
on or behind windows facing the public view indicating the owners,
operators, or business associates exercising the use; provided, that
such lettering shall be enclosed within a single area and shall not
exceed a total of three square feet.
13.
Use of Attraction Boards by Theaters. In addition to the basic sign
entitlement, one attraction board to advertise theater, or restaurant
entertainment is permitted. The maximum permitted size for an attraction
board shall be 50 square feet if placed on a building wall facing
a public street or 25 square feet on each side if such board is incorporated
into a monument sign otherwise permitted in this chapter. The advertising
on the attraction board shall be limited to coming and current entertainment
only.
14.
Gasoline Service Stations. In addition to the basic sign entitlement
, gasoline service stations are allowed the following:
a.
One gasoline or fuel price sign per street frontage, placed either
on the ground or on a pole, not to exceed 20 square feet in area and
six feet in height, advertising the actual price per gallon or liter
including all taxes at which regular, premium, and unleaded gasoline,
are sold.
Any special conditions required for sale at such price including
but not limited to "cash," "credit," "full-service," "mini-service,"
or "self-service," shall also be indicated.
b.
One wall sign advertising the company name and/or logo; the operator;
and accessory uses, including but not limited to, "mini-mart," "car
wash," not to exceed 15 square feet in area; or a monument sign advertising
the information listed above, which does not exceed 48 square feet
in area, and complies with the provisions governing monument signs.
c.
The restrictions imposed by this chapter shall not be applicable
to displays located on or above the actual fuel pumps, nor shall they
apply to stand-up or other type displays of service related products
such as motor oil, windshield wipers, credit card applications and
similar items.
d.
One informational sign located on a building wall not to exceed 10
square feet in area.
15.
Fast Service Restaurants. In addition to the basic sign entitlement,
fast service restaurants with drive-up or walk through facilities
are permitted two menu or reader boards with a maximum area of 25
square feet each. For the purposes of determining this maximum area,
any pictures or photographs of food products on the perimeter of the
board shall not be included within the computation of the maximum
area for such board.
16.
Automated or Manual Service Facilities. Signs for drive-up or walk-up
service windows or machines, whether freestanding or incorporated
into a building, require special consideration which, because of their
unlimited variety and character, a uniform sign entitlement cannot
be established. Therefore, the sign allowance for such facilities
shall be determined when the sign permit application is being reviewed
on the basis of their function and use and such signs shall not be
allowed as a method for increasing the basic sign entitlement for
the principal use or to function as off-site advertising of the principal
use. Examples of such facilities are drive-up or walk-up windows for
banks, restaurants, liquor and grocery stores, and film processors.
17.
Sale, Lease and Rental Signs. Commercial and industrial properties
may have sale, lease or rental signs on the following basis:
a.
Under two and one-half acres, one sign;
b.
Over two and one-half acres, but less than five acres, two signs;
c.
Over five acres, one sign per street frontage.
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Such permitted signs shall not exceed 15 square feet in area
or six feet in height and shall be designed and located in a manner
satisfactory to the director. Such signs shall be removed within seven
days after the property is sold or rented or the offer for sale or
rent is terminated. The property shall be deemed to be sold upon the
close of escrow.
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B.
Special
Purpose Signs.
1.
Trade
Construction Signs. One nonilluminated sign per street frontage advertising
the various construction trades is permitted on construction sites
during the period that valid building permit approval exists. Such
signs shall not exceed three square feet per 20,000 square feet of
land area with a maximum of 32 square feet in sign area and shall
be removed before a notice of completion is issued for the building
being constructed. No trade construction sign shall exceed six feet
in height.
2.
"No
Trespassing Signs. "No trespassing" or "no dumping" signs per 100
feet of street frontage not exceeding three square feet in area or
six feet in height are permitted for each parcel of land. Such signs
shall be designed and located on such parcel in a manner approved
by the director.
3.
Land
Subdivision Signs. Signs advertising land subdivisions shall be limited
to one double-faced sign of 32 square feet per side, placed at a right
angle to the street or two thirty-two (32) square-foot signs facing
the street. The maximum height shall be 10 feet. Such signs shall
be at least 200 feet apart and shall be located within the subdivision.
Such signs shall be removed within 12 months or when all lots within
the subdivision are initially sold, whichever is sooner. Such signs
shall not be illuminated.
4.
Lease
Potential Signs. One sign advertising lease potential for future development,
not to exceed 32 square feet in area and located a minimum of five
feet from any property line, is permitted for a single-parcel multiple-unit
development. However, such sign shall not be erected until the architectural
review approval is received for the proposed project, and all such
signs shall be removed before a notice of completion for the development
or upon expiration of the architectural review approval. Such signs
shall face a public right-of-way and shall not be illuminated.
5.
Community
and Neighborhood Identification Signs. For identifiable communities
or neighborhoods, a 48 square foot sign may be permitted for each
public street entrance. Such sign may be placed on property line walls
for a maximum of one sign on each side of the entrance, or, as an
alternative thereto such sign may consist of one monument sign with
a maximum height of six feet.
6.
Signs
on Awnings. Painted, nonilluminated signs may be permitted on the
borders of marquees, canopies, awnings, arcades, or similar structures
or attachments, if located and erected in a manner satisfactory to
the director. Such signs shall be included in the basic sign area
entitlement. Externally lighted signs shall be permitted on the upper
or lower surface of fixed marquees and similar structures, the front
face of which faces the public right-of-way; provided, that the outer
dimensions of such signs shall not exceed 16 inches in height; and
provided further, that each letter or image on such a sign does not
exceed 12 inches in height. The location and design of such signs
shall be approved by the director. Such signs shall be included in
the total basic sign area entitlement.
7.
Grand
Opening Signs. During an authorized grand opening event, temporary
signs, not exceeding 20 square feet in area may be approved by the
director. Such signs may consist of one banner on the exterior wall
of the building within which the subject business is located. Such
signs shall not be displayed more than 30 days from the issuance of
the sign permit.
In addition, during the first four days of a grand opening event,
captive balloons, without regard to number, may be permitted; provided,
that such balloons do not extend beyond the lowest point of the roof
line of the business, obstruct other business in the vicinity or interfere
with pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
These restrictions shall not in any way prohibit any person
from handing out or giving away balloons as part of the normal activities
of a business as long as such balloons are not in a captive state
attached to a structure.
Directional Signs. Directional signs shall be limited in number
to the greater of five signs or four signs per frontage for any business
premises that has more than one frontage. The maximum area for such
signs shall be three square feet, and such signs shall not exceed
three feet in height. A directional sign may display a logo of a business
located on the subject property as well as an arrow or other directional
symbol and/or words, including but not limited to "parking," "enter,"
"exit," "do not enter," "drive-thru," "welcome" and other similar
messages.
(Prior code § 9356; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993)
A.
Duty
to Enforce. The director shall have the duty to enforce the provisions
of this chapter.
B.
Ambiguity.
Whenever any ambiguity arises as to the interpretation of the provisions
of this chapter, the applicant for a sign permit may request that
the planning commission make a determination as to the meaning and
application of the ambiguous provision.
C.
Minor
Modifications. The planning commission may approve minor modifications
to the regulations relating to the size, height, number and location
of new or existing signs after a public hearing in those cases where
an applicant is faced with exceptional circumstances related to the
type or location of its business, or is trying to achieve a special
design. The applicant shall have the burden of proving that:
1.
The
sign is or will be integrated into the architecture of the building;
2.
The
sign is or will not be detrimental to surrounding uses or properties
or the community in general; and
3.
The
approval of such modification is consistent with the purposes of the
proposed general plan and this chapter.
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, the size or height entitlement
of a sign shall not be increased by more than 30%.
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D.
Discontinuance
of a Business. Within 30 days after the discontinuance of a business
in any commercial zone or before a new business occupies the premises,
whichever comes first, all nonconforming signs and support structures
shall be removed and the working or advertising relating to the discontinued
business shall be removed from all conforming signs. This section
shall not be applicable to the assignment, lease or sublease of an
existing business which continues to conduct the same business on
the same premises.
E.
Nonconforming
Sign Maintenance. Except for normal repair or maintenance not exceeding
50% of the replacement cost of the sign, as determined by the building
official, no nonconforming sign shall be modified or moved unless
it complies fully with the provisions of this chapter.
F.
Removal
of Illegal Signs on Public Property. The director shall remove or
cause to be removed any temporary sign unlawfully placed or located
on public property. The director shall notify in writing the owner
of such sign, if such owner is known, that its sign is being held
at City Hall and that it will be destroyed if not claimed by the owner
within ten days after the date of such notice. In the event that the
owner does not claim such sign within the ten- (10) day period, the
director may destroy or otherwise dispose of such sign.
(Prior code § 9357; Ord. 86 § 3, 1993; Ord.
93 § 62, 1993)
