Chapter 17.15 SIGNS

§ 17.15.010 Description and Purpose—Applicability.

The provisions of this chapter shall govern all matters relating to signs, advertising structures, and advertising devices within the City which are exposed to view from outside the confines of any building, including, but not limited to, the location, type, size, height, design, quantity, content, and illumination of signs, advertising structures or devices.

The purposes of these provisions are to:

Maintain and enhance the physical appearance and economic value of the City;

Direct and inform persons as to the location and nature of enterprises and activities;

Provide guidance for design of advertising displays, structures and devices which will harmonize with their surroundings, avoid confusion or excessive competition for visual attention, and result in signage which is architecturally compatible with adjacent buildings or structures;

Reduce the potential for distraction of or hazard to motorists or pedestrians; and

Reduce the potential for creation of visual nuisances.

The intent of these provisions is to provide a reasonable system of controls to assist in the preservation and enhancement of the visual environment, protection of property values, and the protection of the public safety and general welfare.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.020 Definitions.

For the purposes of carrying out the purposes and intent of this chapter, the meanings of the following words/terms and phrases shall be as ascribed to them herein; further provided that, when not inconsistent with the context, words used in the present tense include the future, words used in the singular number include the plural number, and words used in the plural number include the singular number. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine gender, and words used in the feminine and/or neuter gender include the masculine and/or neuter gender. The word "shall" is always mandatory and not merely directory.

"Advertising display"

means any structure device or sign, erected or maintained either wholly or in part for outdoor advertising purposes, including, but not limited to, any sign, flag, banner, pennant, statuary, balloon, spotlight, searchlight, or other device located either on-or off-site, which is intended or designed to identify, advertise, or promote the sale of goods, materials or services or the location thereof.

"Advertising structure"

means a structure of any kind or character erected or maintained for outdoor advertising purposes, upon which any poster, bill, printing, painting or other advertisement of any kind whatsoever may be placed, including statuary, for advertising purposes.

Advertising structure does not include:

Official notices issued by any court or public body or officer;

Notices posted by any public officer in performance of a public duty or by any person in giving legal notice;

Directional, warning or information signs or structures required by or authorized by law or by Federal, State, County, or City authority;

A structure erected near a City or County boundary, which contains the name of such City or County and the names of, or any other information regarding civic, fraternal or religious organizations located therein.

"Banner," "flag," "pennant" or "balloon"

means any cloth, bunting, plastic, paper, or similar material used for advertising purposes attached, or pinned onto, or from any structure, staff, pole, line, framing, vehicle, or other object.

"Beacon light" or "searchlight"

means any light with one or more beams, capable of being directed in any direction or directions.

"Building face"

means any (front, rear, or side) vertical surface of a building elevation in which the business is located. The area of the face of a building shall be the total area of such surface, including the area of doors and windows which open into such surface.

"Building frontage"

means that portion of a building on, adjacent to, or oriented to a public right-of-way.

"Bulletin board"

means a board for displaying notices, posters, cards, sheets, or other printed, illustrated, or written matter. Also within this Code a freestanding sign for churches, schools, and official uses which contains the name of the institution or organization and general events or activities occurring at the institution.

"Canopy"

means a structural, ornamental, roof-like appendage, either freestanding or attached to a building.

"City"

means the City of Upland.

"Design review"

means a formal process adopted by the City for review of all components of design of sites, buildings, structures, and signs to determine conformance with applicable City policies and standards.

"Erect"

means to build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend, or affix, and shall also include the painting of wall signs.

"Flagpole"

means a device utilized to display the California State and/or United States flag(s).

"Freeway"

means a highway in respect to which the owners of abutting lands have no right or easement of access to or from their abutting lands, or in respect to which such owners have only limited or restricted right or easement of access, and which is declared to be such in compliance with the Streets and Highways Code of the State of California.

"Frontage"

means the length of a lot along a street or other principal public thoroughfare or freeway, but not including such length along an alley, watercourse, or railroad.

"Grand opening"

means a promotional activity used by newly established businesses, within 60 days after occupancy, to inform the public of their location and contribution to the community. Grand opening does not mean an annual or occasional promotion of retail sales by a business.

"Handbill"

means any pamphlet, circular, folder, booklet, petition, letter, card, sheet, poster, sticker, dodger, or other written or illustrated matter distributed by hand to the general public.

"Location"

means a lot or premises, building wall, or place upon which a sign is erected, constructed or maintained.

"Logo"

means a visual symbol identifying the business or service provided, which may be all or part of a sign.

"Multiple-occupancy building"

means a building wherein two or more separately independently owned or operated occupancies are contained.

"Multiple-occupancy site"

means a parcel of land as designated in the current assessor's parcel map book, containing two or more separately, independently owned or operated occupancies.

"Murals"

means an artistic picture or scene painted onto a building wall or other structure, but containing no advertising message and not associated with graffiti or related acts of vandalism.

"Nonstructural trim"

means the molding, battens, cappings, nailing strips, or lattice which are attached to sign structures and are not part of the sign copy.

"Person"

means any individual, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company, or organization, singular or plural, of any kind.

"Relocation agreement"

means an agreement entered into between the City and an off-premises advertising display owner and/or property owner resulting in the removal, relocation, replacement and/or reconstruction of one or more lawfully existing off-premises advertising displays, including electronic changeable-copy signs, to another parcel of property within the City, or to reconstruct an off-premises advertising display on the same property, as approved by City Council, in accordance with Section 17.15.090. For purposes of this chapter, a relocated off-premises advertising display is not considered a new or additional off-premises advertising display, and "relocate" shall not be construed to mean moving an existing structure and/or advertising display face to a new location; all "relocated" off-premises advertising displays and associated advertising display faces shall be of new construction, and shall be constructed pursuant to a relocation agreement.

"Roof line"

means the top edge of a roof, mansard, or parapet wall of any building or other structure, which forms the top line of the building silhouette, exclusive of any sign tower.

"Setback"

means the distance between any building or structure, or between any building or structure and any or all of the property lines of the site upon which such building or structure is located.

"Setback line"

means a space or area between any public right-of-way and an imaginary line on all building sites within which no buildings or structures shall be erected, placed or located.

"Sign"

means any device, fixture, surface, or structure of any kind or character, made of any material whatsoever, displaying letters, words, texts, illustrations, symbols, forms, patterns, colors, textures, shadows, or lights, or any other illustrative or graphic display designated, constructed, or placed on the ground, on a building canopy, wall, post, or structure of any kind, in a window, or on any other object for the purpose of advertising, identifying, or calling visual attention to any place, structure, firm, enterprise, profession, business, service, product, commodity, person or activity, whether located on the site, in any structure on the site, or in any other location.

The term "placed"

means and includes constructing, erecting, posting, painting, printing, tacking, nailing, gluing, sticking, sculpting, carving, or otherwise fastening, affixing, or making visible in any manner whatsoever.

The term sign does not include the following:

Official notices issued by any court or public body or officer;

Notices posted by any public officer in performance of a public duty or by any person giving legal notice;

Directional, warning or information structures required by or authorized by law or by Federal, State, County, or City official;

A structure erected near a City or County boundary which contains the name of such City or County and the names of, or any other information regarding civic, fraternal or religious organizations located herein;

The display of the flag of the United States or the flag of the State of California, or any structure used exclusively for displaying these flags;

A table or other similar display containing merchandise, products for sale, literature, pamphlets, or other written or printed information available to the general public.

Sign, Animated.

"Animated sign" means a sign which is designed and constructed to give a message through a sequence of progressive changes of parts by either action and motion, flashing or color changes requiring electric, wind, or manual energy.

Sign, Appurtenant.

"Appurtenant sign" means any sign which directs attention to an occupancy, business, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold or offered only upon the premises where the sign is maintained as distinguished from a sign which directs attention to or advertises an occupancy, commodity, service, or entertainment supplied or originating on other premises.

"Sign area"

means the entire area within a rectangle or series of rectangles enclosing the extreme limits of writing, representation, emblem, or any figure or similar character, together with any frame or other material or color forming an integral part of the display or used to differentiate such sign from the background against which it is placed; excluding the necessary supports or uprights on which such sign is placed, and superficial, nonilluminated column covers, ornamental trim, and other such incidental objects attached thereto which are not designed to convey a message; and excluding a reasonable amount of nonencompassed open area. Where two such faces are placed back to back and are at no point more than two feet from one another, the area of the sign shall be taken as the area of one face, if the two are of unequal area. In the case of spherical or cylindrical signs, the area shall be one-half of the surface area of the signs. In the case of semicylindrical signs, the surface area shall be the total surface area.

Sign, Attached.

"Attached sign" means any sign which is supported wholly by a building or structure, other than by a sign structure. Any roof sign, as defined herein, shall be considered an attached sign. Any sign extending less than 18 inches from the vertical surface of any building or structure.

Sign, Awning.

"Awning sign" means a sign painted onto the canvas or valance of an awning.

Sign, Banner.

"Banner sign" means a sign made of fabric, paper or other lightweight material, whether or not enclosed in a rigid frame, attached to a canopy, wall, cable, or pole.

Sign, Bench.

"Bench sign" means any sign which is located on any part of the surface of a bench or seat placed on or adjacent to a public right-of-way.

Sign, Billboard.

"Billboard sign" means any outdoor sign not attached to any building, the purpose of which is to advertise a product, service business, activity, use and/or occupancy not conducted upon the site where the sign is located. This definition does not include a noncommercial sign, public information sign or real estate directional sign advertising any subdivision located within the incorporated limits of the City.

Sign, Business Identification.

"Business identification sign" means a sign which directs attention to a principal business, profession or industry located upon the premises upon which the sign is displayed; to a category of products sold, manufactured, or assembled; and/or to services or entertainment offered on such premises.

Sign, Can.

"Can sign" means a metal framed sign with a plastic or similar material face and lettering and utilizing internal illumination.

Sign, Canopy.

"Canopy sign" means either of the following:

Any sign placed on or supported entirely by a rigid or nonrigid shelter or other structure projecting out from any exterior wall or portion of a building or other structure.

Any sign attached to or suspended under any rigid or nonrigid portion or support of a building or other structure including, but not limited to, a breezeway, pedestrian passageway, porch or veranda.

Sign, Center Identification.

"Center identification sign" means a freestanding sign intended solely for the purpose of identification of a commercial or industrial center or complex. Such signs shall be monument signs placed into landscaped berms and shall not contain advertising or promotional information, but may contain logos.

Sign, Electronic Changeable-Copy.

"Electronic changeable-copy sign" means an electronically-powered-sign that is designed so that characters, letters or illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. This shall also include the changing of copy on billboards.

Sign, Coming Soon.

"Coming soon sign" means a temporary sign indicating the future or intended use of a property or building.

Sign, Construction.

"Construction sign" means any sign stating the name and address of those individuals or firms directly connected with a construction project and the name of the owner or ultimate user.

Sign, Convenience.

"Convenience sign" means a sign not larger than two square feet which conveys information such as "restrooms," "no parking," "entrance," and the like but does not contain land, trade, advertising or business identification and is designed to be viewed on site by pedestrians and/or motorists.

"Sign copy"

means any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign.

Sign, Directional Off-Site.

"Directional off-site sign" means any off-site freestanding, nonflashing sign which is designed, erected and maintained to serve as a public convenience in directing pedestrian and vehicular traffic, but not used for the purpose of advertising uses and activities on site.

Sign, Directory.

"Directory sign" means a sign on which the names and locations of occupants or the use of a building is given.

Sign, Detached.

"Detached sign" means any sign which is supported by structures or supports in or upon the ground and independent of substantial support from a building. This type of sign is also referred to as a "freestanding," "ground" or "pole" sign.

Sign, Electrical.

"Electrical sign" means a sign containing electrical wiring for the purpose of lighting or illumination, but not including signs illuminated by an exterior or remote light source.

Sign, Flashing.

"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains or is illuminated by lights which are intermittently on and off, which change intensity, or which create the illusion of motion in any manner. This type of sign is also referred to as a "running" or "blinking" sign.

"Sign height"

means the vertical distance measured from the top of curb elevation adjacent to the sign to the highest point of the sign or sign structure(s).

Sign, Historic.

"Historic sign" means a sign which is of recognized historic or cultural significance to the community or town center for properties indicated within any of the historic districts of the general plan, on the Upland historic resources survey and/or on the local register.

Sign, Illegal.

"Illegal sign" means any sign which was erected in noncompliance with any provision of the Upland Municipal Code pertaining to signs which were in effect at the time such sign was erected including, but not limited to, height, area, dimensions, type, or location of signs, and/or procedures or requirements for the erection thereof.

Sign, Illuminated.

"Illuminated sign" means any sign which has characters, figures, letters, designs or outlines illuminated internally or externally by electric lights or luminous tubes as a part of the sign proper. This term includes both directly and indirectly illuminated signs.

Sign, Indirectly Illuminated.

"Indirectly illuminated sign" means a sign whose illumination is reflected from its source by the sign display surface to the viewer's eyes, the source of light not being visible from the street or from abutting property, or any sign for which the light travels through a shield or material other than the bulb or tubing necessary to enclose the light source, which shield or material has the effect of dispersing the light before it strikes the eye of the viewer, including neon signs having no exposed or visible tubing.

Sign, Informational On-Site.

"Informational on-site sign" means any on-site sign erected for the purpose of informing the viewer of the approximate route, direction, or location of a facility.

Sign, Interior.

"Interior sign" means any sign located inside a building that is visible from a public street, right-of-way, or parking lot.

"Sign kiosk"

means a freestanding and multiple-sided structure which serves as its main purpose to display signs or information.

Sign, Marquee.

"Marquee sign" means any sign attached to and made part of a marquee. A "marquee" is defined as a permanent roof-like structure projecting beyond a building wall at an entrance to a building or extending along and projecting beyond the building's wall and generally designed and constructed to provide protection against the weather.

Sign, Memorial.

"Memorial sign" means a sign or tablet, containing the name of a building, and/or date of erection when cut into any masonry surface or when constructed of bronze or other incombustible materials mounted on the face of a building or wall.

Sign, Menu Board.

"Menu board sign" means any wall or monument sign displaying a list of items available at a drive-through business for the purpose of taking drive-through orders.

Sign, Monument.

"Monument sign" means a low-profile freestanding sign connected to the ground with a solid base and which reflects and complements the architectural theme of the buildings on the same property, and on which copy is limited to identification of the center and/or businesses located on the premises.

Sign, Moving.

"Moving sign" means a sign or any device designed to attract attention by visual means through the movement or semblance of movement of the whole or any part of the sign, including rotation and special lighting. Does not include time and temperature signs. Sometimes called "animated," "flashing," "scintillating" or "running" sign.

Sign, Multitenant.

"Multitenant sign" means a sign used to advertise businesses that occupy a commercial or industrial center or complex of two or more tenants.

Sign, Nameplate.

"Nameplate sign" means a sign serving to designate only the name, or the name and professional occupation, of a person or persons residing in or occupying space in a building located on the premises upon which the sign is located.

Sign, Nonappurtenant.

"Nonappurtent sign" means any sign which directs attention to an occupancy, business, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold or offered off the premises where the sign is maintained as distinguished from a sign which directs attention to or advertises an occupancy, commodity, service, or entertainment supplied on the premises of the sign.

Sign, Nonconforming.

"Nonconforming sign" means any lawfully erected sign, which does not fully comply with all provisions of this chapter. This definition does not include any sign that has been illegally erected, or maintained in violation of any safety or health provision of this Code, or that otherwise constitutes a danger to health or safety. Nonconforming off-premises advertising displays that are relocated pursuant to a relocation agreement under Section 17.15.090 shall no longer be deemed nonconforming upon relocation.

Sign, Off-Site.

"Off-site sign" means a sign which advertises or directs attention to products or activities that are not provided on the site upon which the sign is located.

Sign, On-Site.

"On-site sign" means a sign which advertises or directs attention to products or activities that are provided on the site upon which the sign is located.

Sign, Painted.

"Painted sign" means any sign or representation painted directly on the exterior surface of any building or structure, except on the vertical face or valance of an awning or canopy.

Sign, Political.

"Political sign" means a sign erected prior to an election to advertise or identify a candidate, campaign issue, election proposition, or other related matters.

Sign, Portable.

"Portable sign" means any sign not designed to be permanently attached. to a structure or to the ground.

Sign, Projecting.

"Projecting sign" means any sign other than a wall sign affixed to any building or wall, a portion of which extends beyond such building or wall by more than 18 inches. Any such sign suspended under a marquee, porch, walkway covering, or similar covering structure and in a place approximately perpendicular to the wall of the adjoining building, shall be deemed to be a projecting sign.

Sign, Professional.

"Professional sign" means a sign indicating the name or names and occupation or occupations of a professional person or group of associated professional persons occupying the premises.

Sign, Promotional Sales.

"Promotional sales sign" means a sign erected on a temporary basis to promote a new business, the sale of new products, new management, new hours of operation, a new service, or to promote a special sale. This type of sign is also referred to as a "special event" or "grand opening" sign.

Sign, Real Estate.

"Real estate sign" means a temporary sign advertising the sale or lease of any property and the identification of the firm handling such sale, lease or rent.

Sign, Revolving.

"Revolving sign" means a sign which completely or partially rotates, either on an intermittent or continuous basis.

Sign, Roof.

"Roof sign" means a sign erected, constructed, or placed upon or partially extending above a roof or parapet wall of a building and which is wholly or partly supported by such buildings.

Sign, Sidewalk.

"Sidewalk sign" means a portable sign on the public sidewalk or near the street adjacent to the business being identified, also typically known as A-frame or sandwich board signs.

Sign, Stationary.

"Stationary sign" means a sign which does not revolve, oscillate or move and has no flashing, blinking or moving lights.

"Sign structure"

means the supports, uprights, bracing, and framework of a sign. The area of such structure shall not be included in computing the aggregate surface of the area of the sign which it supports.

Sign, Subdivision.

"Subdivision sign" means a sign in accordance with this title, which directs traffic to, or advertises a subdivision within the City. Such sign is classified as an on-site subdivision sign when located within the subdivision it advertises, and is classified as an off-site subdivision sign when not so located.

Sign, Temporary.

"Temporary sign" means any sign constructed of wood, paper, cloth, canvas, or other similar lightweight material, with or without frames, and all others including painted windows intended to be displayed for a limited period of time.

Sign, Time and Temperature.

"Time and temperature sign" means a changeable copy sign displaying only the time and temperature.

Sign, Under Canopy.

"Under canopy sign" means a permanent sign installed suspended below the canopy of a building.

Sign, Vehicle.

"Vehicle sign" means a sign which is attached to, or painted on, a vehicle or trailer and placed on any property so as to attract attention to a product, activity or business by such means as advertisement of sales prices, provision of direction to the business or activity, or similar promotional copy.

Sign, Wall.

"Wall sign" means any sign painted on or attached to and erected parallel to the face of, or erected and confined within the limits of, the outside wall of any building and supported by such wall or building and which displays only one advertising surface.

Sign, Wind.

"Wind sign" means any banner, balloon, flag, pennant or other advertising display fastened in such a manner so as to be subject to movement by mild wind pressure.

Sign, Window.

"Window sign" means an advertising sign painted, attached, glued, or otherwise affixed to either the exterior or interior side of a window, having copy visible from a public street, right-of-way, or parking lot.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.030 Administrative Provisions—General.

No person shall erect any sign regulated by this chapter in the City without first obtaining a sign permit to do so from the Building Department, and except in conformity with the provisions of this Zoning Code.

Consent of Owner. No person shall erect any sign regulated by this chapter without first obtaining and filing with the Community Development Director the written consent of the owner and lessee or person having possession of the property upon which the sign is situated.

Sign Plan Review. Plans for all signs shall be subject to review and approval by design review and/or Community Development Director staff prior to placement on any building, structure, or land, and shall be in accordance with procedures for sign plan reviews.

Sign Identification. All signs shall bear the permit number, in an inconspicuous location but readily visible from the ground, in numerals not smaller than three-fourths inches in height. Failure to place this permit number on the sign at the time of installation will subject the person to whom the sign permit was issued to the penalties specified for violations of this Code.

Annual Review of Signs. All signs in the City shall be formally reviewed annually by a sign committee appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council, consisting of five voting members as follows: Two shall be representatives of the general population of the City; one shall be a member of the Planning Commission; one shall be a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and one shall be a member of the City Council.

Appeals. An appeal of any determination pursuant to this chapter shall be as provided in Chapter 17.47.

Variances. Deviations from the provisions of this chapter shall be considered in accordance with the procedures set forth in Section 17.44.060 and shall be subject to the following findings:

There are exceptional, unique circumstances or visibility problems involved with the property or development which do not apply generally to other property or developments in the same zoning district;

A sign or signs not meeting the standards is the only available means of providing adequate identification;

Approval of sign or signs not meeting the standards will not constitute a granting of special privilege not enjoyed by other properties or developments in the same zoning district.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.040 Nonconforming Signs and Billboards.

Every sign or billboard in existence on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter, and which was legal at the time of installation, and which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, is a legal, nonconforming sign. The following requirements shall apply to all legal, nonconforming signs.

A nonconforming sign may not be:

Changed to another nonconforming sign;

Structurally altered to extend its useful life;

Expanded;

Reestablished after a business has been discontinued for 60 days;

Reestablished after damage or destruction of more than 50 percent of its value, as determined by the Building Department.

No new sign shall be approved for a site, structure, building, or use that contains nonconforming signs unless such nonconforming signs are removed or modified to conform with the provisions of this chapter.

No building permit shall be issued for any structures, building expansions, or new building construction on a site which contains nonconforming signs, unless all signs on the site are brought into conformance with this chapter. This does not include interior alterations which do not substantially change the character or intensity of the site.

All nonconforming signs shall be removed at such time as the use of any site, building, or structure is changed. A change in business ownership only shall not be deemed a change of use pursuant to this section.

Nonconforming off-premises advertising displays that are relocated pursuant to a relocation agreement under Section 17.15.090 shall no longer be deemed nonconforming upon relocation.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.050 Prohibited Signs and Advertising Structures—General.

Abandoned Signs. No person shall maintain or permit to be maintained on any premises owned or controlled by him or her any sign which has been abandoned. Any such sign shall promptly be removed by the owner or designee. Any sign which is located on property which becomes vacant and unoccupied for a period of 60 days or more, or any sign which was erected for an occupant or his or her business, or any sign which pertains to a time, event, or purpose which no longer applies, shall be presumed to have been abandoned, except that permanent signs applicable to a business temporarily suspended by reason of change of ownership or management of such business shall not be considered abandoned unless the property remains vacant for a period of 18 months.

Billboards and Other Off-Site Advertising Structures. Billboards, nonappurtenant or other off-site, outdoor advertising structures, except temporary real estate directional or kiosk signs as provided in Sections 17.15.100 and 17.15.110, and relocated off-premises advertising displays as permitted under Section 17.15.090, are expressly prohibited in all zones.

Vehicle Signs. No person shall park, or cause to be parked, any vehicle on any public or private property right-of-way for the sole purpose of commercial advertising. A sign or signs on vehicles used in conjunction with a business and the use of that vehicle will be allowed, subject to the following provisions:

A vehicle sign is a sign permanently or temporarily attached to, or permanently painted on, a vehicle that is used in conjunction with the business that it identifies or advertises.

The vehicle must be used as a part of the business to which the advertising on the vehicle pertains, (i.e., regular use for delivery of business products or obtaining supplies).

No vehicle sign shall be attached in such a manner as to render a door, window, hood, trunk, or tailgate or a vehicle unmovable or unusable or to violate the California Vehicle Code.

No vehicle sign shall have an arrow pointing towards the business that it identifies or advertises.

No sign permit is required for a vehicle sign.

Temporary or Semipermanent Signs. It is expressly prohibited in all zones to erect temporary or semipermanent signs such as paper pasteup, painted, portable posterboard, A-board, and mobile types when such signs are located outside of buildings, on exterior walls, and/or on window surfaces, unless a temporary sign permit has first been issued.

Roof Signs. Signs projecting above the roof-line of a building or structure, except in the case of a sign incorporated as an integral part of the design and construction of a building and approved by design review.

Distraction to Motor Vehicle Operators. No sign shall in any way endanger the health or safety of operators of motor vehicles on the streets and/or highways through the use of motion, sound, or other mechanical devices. Blinking, flashing, unusual lighting, or other means of animation which cause distraction to operators of motor vehicles shall not be permitted on or by any sign. Signs that revolve, rotate or orbit (except symbolic and common signs such as barber pole and mortar and pestle, which are traditional in nature and size) shall not be permitted.

Animated and Electronic Changeable-Copy Signs. Animated and/or electronic changeable-copy signs, as defined within Section 17.15.020, or any other form of moveable, flashing, lighted, or rotating sign shall be expressly prohibited in all zones, except as provided by Section 17.15.210; and except for relocated off-premises advertising displays as provided by Section 17.15.090; also excepting time and temperature devices, church signs, and movie theater marquees, and high schools within the Public/Institutional (PB/I) zone which may be approved by the Development Services Director or designee; and also excepting any sign constructed to include mechanical equipment to move or rotate the sign for which a building permit was issued prior to April 1, 1994.

Painted-On Signs. Painted-on signs applied directly to a building wall or fascia shall be prohibited.

Mylar-Type Balloons. The use of mylar type balloons made of any electrically conductive material is prohibited.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017; Ord. 1952 § 3, 2021)

§ 17.15.060 Removal of Illegal Signs—General.

Illegal On-Premises Advertising Display. "Illegal on-premises advertising display" means any of the following:

An advertising display erected without first complying with all ordinances and regulations in effect at the time of its construction and erection or use;

An advertising display that was legally erected, but whose use has ceased, or the structure upon which the display is placed has been abandoned by its owner, not maintained, or not used to identify or advertise an ongoing business for a period of not less than 90 days;

An advertising display that was legally erected which later became nonconforming as a result of the adoption of an ordinance, the amortization period of the display provided by the ordinance rendering the display nonconforming has expired and conformance has not been accomplished;

An advertising display which is a danger to the public or is unsafe;

An on-premises advertising display which is a traffic hazard not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of the City.

Off-Premises Advertising Display. "Off-premises advertising display" means any structure, housing, sign, device, figure, statuary, painting, display, message placard, or other contrivance, or any art thereof, which is designed, constructed, created, engineered, intended, or used to advertise, or to provide data or information in the nature of advertising, for any of the following purposes:

To designate, identify or indicate the name of the business of the owner or occupant of the premises upon which the advertising display is located. Fifteen days for permanent signs, or 24 hours for temporary signs, from the date of the notice, that the City Manager or designee will issue a citation to show cause before the Council on a 10-day notice why these signs should not be removed. In the event that the Council shall, after the hearing, determine that these signs are illegal, the Council shall order the City Manager or designee to proceed to remove the signs;

To advertise the business conducted, services available or rendered or the goods produced, sold, or available for sale, upon the property where the advertising display is erected;

To advertise the business conducted, services available or rendered or the goods produced, sold, or available for sale, at a location different from the property where the advertising display is erected, except for relocated off-premises advertising displays as permitted under Section 17.15.090.

Enforcement Officer. "Enforcement officer" means the public employee or officer designated by the City Council to perform the duties imposed by the chapter on the enforcement officer.

Resolution Declaring Nuisance. The City Council shall declare, by resolution, as public nuisances and abate all illegal on-premises advertising displays located within its jurisdiction. The resolution shall describe the property upon which or in front of which the nuisance exists by giving its lot and block number according to the County assessment map and its street address if known. Any number of parcels of private property may be included in the resolution.

Notice of Assessment. Prior to adoption of the resolution by the City Council, the City Clerk shall send not less than a 10 days' written notice to all persons owning property described in the proposed resolution. The notice shall be mailed to each person on whom the described property is assessed on the last equalized assessment roll available on the date the notice is prepared. The notice shall state the date, time, and place of the hearing and generally describe the purposes of the hearing and the nature of the illegality of the display.

Posting. After adoption of the resolution, the enforcement officer shall cause notices to be conspicuously posted on or in front of the property on or in front of which the display exists.

Form of Notice. The notice shall be substantially in the following form:

NOTICE TO REMOVE ILLEGAL ADVERTISING DISPLAY

Notice is hereby given that on the __________ day of __________, the City Council of the City of Upland adopted a resolution declaring that an illegal advertising display is located upon or in front of this property which constitutes a public nuisance and must be abated by the removal of the illegal display. Otherwise, it will be removed, and the nuisance abated by the City. The cost of removal will be assessed upon the property from or in front of which the display is removed and will constitute a lien upon the property until paid. Reference is hereby made to the resolution for further particulars. A copy of this resolution is on file in the office of the City Clerk.

All property owners having any objection to the proposed removal of the display are hereby notified to attend a meeting of the City Council of the City of Upland to be held (give date, time, and place), when their objections will be heard and given due consideration.

Dated this __________ day of __________, 20_____

____________________

(Title)

City of Upland

Time of Posting. The notices shall be posted at least 10 days prior to the time for hearing objections by the City Council.

Written Notice to Property Owner.

In addition to posting notice of the resolution and notice of the meeting when objections will be heard, the City Council shall direct its Clerk to mail written notice of the proposed abatement to all persons owning property described in the resolution. The Clerk shall cause the written notice to be mailed to each person on whom the described property is assessed in the last equalized assessment roll available on the date the resolution was adopted by the City Council.

The County Assessor, at the request of the City Clerk, shall, within 10 days thereafter, mail to the City Clerk a list of the names and addresses of all of the persons owning property described in the resolution. The address of the owners shown on the assessment roll is conclusively deemed to be the proper address for the purpose of mailing the notice. The City shall reimburse the County for the actual cost of furnishing the list, and the cost shall be a part of the costs of abatement.

The notices mailed by the Clerk shall be mailed at least 10 days prior to the time for hearing objections by the City Council.

The notices mailed by the Clerk shall be substantially in the form provided by subsection G of this section.

Hearing.

At the time stated in the notices, the City Council shall hear and consider all objections to the proposed removal of the on-premises advertising display. It may continue the hearing from time to time. By motion of resolution at the conclusion of the hearing, the City Council shall allow or overrule any objections. At that time, the City Council acquires jurisdiction to proceed and perform the work of removal.

The decision of the City Council is final. If objections have not been made or after the City Council has disposed of those made, it shall order the enforcement officer to abate the nuisance by having the display removed. The order shall be made by motion or resolution.

Abatement by Enforcement Officer. The enforcement officer may enter private property to abate the nuisance.

Owners Right to Abate Nuisance.

Before the enforcement officer arrives, any property owner may remove the illegal on-premises advertising display at the owner's expense.

Nevertheless, in any case in which an order to abate is issued, the City Council, by motion or resolution, may further order that a special assessment and lien shall be limited to the costs incurred by the City, as the case may be, in enforcing abatement upon the property, including investigation, boundary determination, measurement, clerical, and other related costs.

Accounting of Costs.

The enforcement officer shall keep an account of the cost of abatement of an illegal on-premises advertising display in front of or on each separate parcel of property where the work is done by him or her. He or she shall submit to the City Council for confirmation an itemized written report showing that cost.

A copy of the report shall be posted for at least three days, prior to its submission to the City Council, on or near the chamber door of the City Council, with notice of the time of submission.

At the time fixed for receiving and considering the report, the City Council shall hear it with any objections of the property owners liable to be assessed by the abatement. It may modify the report if it is deemed necessary. The City Council shall then confirm the report by motion or resolution.

Award of Contract for Abatement. Abatement of the nuisance may, in the discretion of the City Council, be performed by contract awarded by the City Council on the basis of competitive bids let to the lowest responsible bidder. In that event, the contractor shall keep the account and submit the itemized written report for each separate parcel of property required by subsection M of this section.

Affixing Cost Assessment and Collection.

The cost of abatement in front of or upon each parcel of property, and the cost incurred by the City, as the case may be, in enforcing abatement upon the parcels, including investigation, boundary determination, measurement, clerical, and other related costs, are a special assessment against that parcel. After the assessment is made and confirmed, a lien attaches on the parcel upon recordation of the owner confirming the assessment in the office of the County recorder of the County in which the property is situated. However, if any real property to which the lien would attach has been transferred or conveyed to a bona fide purchaser for value, or if a lien of a bona fide encumbrancer for value has been created and attaches thereon, prior to the date on which the first installment of the assessment would become delinquent, the lien which would otherwise be imposed by the section shall not attach to the real property and the costs of abatement and the costs of enforcing abatement, as confirmed, relating to the property shall be transferred to the unsecured roll for collection.

After confirmation of the report, a copy shall be given to the County Assessor and the tax collector, who shall add the amount of the assessment to the next regular tax bill levied against the parcel for municipal purposes.

The City shall file a certified copy of the report with the County Auditor on or before August 10th. The description of the parcels reported shall be those used for the same parcels on the County Assessor's map books for the current year.

The County Auditor shall enter each assessment on the County tax roll opposite the parcel of land.

The amount of the assessment shall be collected at the times and in the manner of ordinary municipal taxes. If delinquent, the amount is subject to the same penalties and procedures of foreclosure and sale provided for ordinary municipal taxes.

As an alternative method, the County Tax Collector, at his or her discretion, may collect the assessments without reference to the general taxes by issuing separate bills and receipts.

Receipt After Confirmation. The enforcement officer may receive the amount due on the abatement cost and issues receipts at any time after the confirmation of the report and until 10 days before a copy is given to the assessor and tax collector or, where a certified copy is filed with the County Auditor, until August 1st following the confirmation of the report.

Refund of Assessment. The City Council may order a refund of all or part of an assessment pursuant to this chapter if it finds that all or part of the assessment has been erroneously levied. An assessment, or part thereof, shall not be refunded unless a claim is filed with the City Clerk on or before November 1st after the assessment became due and payable. The claim shall be verified by the person who paid the assessment or by the person's guardian, conservator, executor, or administrator.

The procedures provided in this section are in addition to all other remedies and cost recovery options available to the City by law or in equity, including, but not limited to, those provided in Chapter 1.20 of this Code.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.070 Inventory of Erected On-Premises Advertising Displays (With a Useful Life of Fifteen Years).

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this chapter, the following subsections shall apply only to lawfully erected on-premises advertising displays designed, constructed, created, intended, or engineered to have a useful life of 15 years or more.

Definitions. As used in this chapter, "on-premises advertising displays" means any structure, housing, sign, device, figure, statuary, painting, display, message placard, or other contrivance, or any part thereof, which has been designed constructed, created, intended, or engineered to have a useful life of 15 years or more, and intended or used to advertise, or to provide data or information in the nature of advertising, for any of the following purposes:

To designate, identify, or indicate the name or business of the owner or occupant of the premises upon which the advertising display is located;

To advertise the business conducted, services available or rendered, or the goods produced, sold, or available for sale, upon the property where the advertising display has been lawfully erected.

Exclusion—Outdoor Advertising. This chapter does not apply to advertising displays used exclusively for outdoor advertising pursuant to the Outdoor Advertising Act of the Business and Professions Code.

Exclusion—Nonconforming Advertising Displays. As used in this chapter, illegal advertising displays do not include legally erected, but nonconforming, displays for which the applicable amortization period has not expired.

Abandoned Advertising Display. As used in this chapter, "abandoned advertising display" means any display remaining in place or not maintained for a period of 90 days which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product, or service available on the business premises where the display is located.

Inventory and Identification. The inventory and identification of the above mentioned displays shall commence within six months from the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter. Within 60 days after the six-month period, the City shall commence abatement of the identified preexisting illegal and abandoned on-premises advertising displays.

Fees. The City shall impose reasonable fees upon all owners or lessees of on-premises business advertising displays for the purpose of covering its actual cost of inventorying and identifying illegal or abandoned advertising displays which are within its jurisdiction. The actual cost may be fixed upon a determination of the total estimated reasonable cost, the amount of which and the fee to be charged is exclusively within the discretion of the City. The cost may be added as an assessment to the next regular tax bill levied against the parcel against which the cost was assessed; or, as an alternative, such cost may be added to the next annual business license renewal fee of the person whose on-premises advertising sign/signs was/were inventoried.

Denial of Permit. The City may not deny, refuse to issue, or condition the issuance of a business license or a permit to construct a new legal on-premises advertising display upon the removal, conformance, repair, modification, or abatement of any other on-premises advertising display on the same real property where the business is to be or has been maintained if both of the following apply:

The other display is located within the same commercial complex which is zoned for commercial occupancy or use, but at a different business location from that for which the permit or license is sought;

The other display is not owned or controlled by the permit applicant, and the permit applicant is not the agent of the person who owns or controls the other display.

Effect on Nonconforming Signs. During the amortization period for a nonconforming legally in place on-premises advertising display's continued use, the City may not deny, refuse to issue, or condition the issuance of a permit for modification or alteration to the display upon change of ownership of any existing business if the modification or alteration does not include a structural change in the display.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.080 Sign Regulations—General.

Notwithstanding the sign provisions of the zone(s) in which located, the following regulations shall apply to all zones:

Sign Maintenance. All signs permitted in the City shall be maintained in a neat, attractive condition, and in adequate repair, as determined by the City Manager or a designee, at all times.

Lighted Signs Near Street Intersections. All lighting of signs or outdoor advertising located within 150 feet of any street intersection shall be of such color and design that there will be no confusion with public signs or signals regulating the flow of vehicular traffic. The Public Works Director shall have sole use of red, amber, or green-colored lights.

Outdoor Advertising Structure Landscaping. All outdoor advertising structures hereafter erected in conformity with this Zoning Code shall be landscaped and such landscaping shall be maintained in a neat and orderly manner, properly irrigated, and free of weeds.

Advertising Structures Near Residential Uses. No outdoor advertising structure may be placed or located on any vacant lot or parcel of land lying between two residential buildings, structures, or uses where such structures or uses are less than 100 feet apart, nor may any such outdoor advertising structure be located within 50 feet of any residential use in the same block frontage.

Projections Over Rights-of-Way. All projecting signs shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the following requirements:

Signs Over Public Rights-of-Way. No sign shall extend over a public sidewalk or right-of-way, excepting signs attached under canopies or marquees, which shall not exceed dimensions of 12 vertical inches by 48 horizontal inches, and shall clear the surface below by not less than eight feet. Signs of iconic or historical significance may extend over the public sidewalk or the public right-of-way, providing they are less than 16 square feet in area, and are at least eight feet above the surface of the ground or sidewalk above which they are located, and are approved by the design review process.

A sign(s) for which an encroachment permit or license has been granted by the City of Upland pursuant to this chapter may encroach over a public right-of-way.

Signs affixed to the vertical face or valance of an awning or canopy for buildings in the MU (mixed use) zone may be permitted through design review approval.

Advertising Signs and Structures Near Freeways. Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 17.15.190 and 17.15.220 and except for relocated off-premises advertising displays as provided in Section 17.15.090, the subject matter of any nonappurtenant freestanding, outdoor advertising sign and structure built beyond 500 feet from freeway right-of-way shall not be visible from such freeway.

In the case of freeway-oriented commercial sites which have parcel frontage on the freeway, or commercial sites that are within 500 feet from freeway right-of-way, the sign and structure shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the following requirements:

Sites Adjacent to the Freeway. The maximum sign height for any appurtenant freestanding, freeway-oriented outdoor advertising sign adjacent to the freeway shall not exceed 25 feet measured from the uppermost point of the sign down to the finished grade at the base of the sign. The height may be increased to 35 feet if the finished grade at the base of the sign is a minimum of 10 feet below the grade of the freeway. In the event of a depressed freeway, no sign shall exceed a maximum height of 25 feet from the finished grade at the base of the sign.

Sites Adjacent to the Freeway with a Frontage of 250 Feet or More. For sites with a minimum frontage of 250 feet on a freeway, the maximum sign height for any appurtenant freestanding, freeway-oriented outdoor advertising sign shall not exceed 45 feet from the uppermost point of the sign down to the finished grade at the base of the sign. The height may be increased to 55 feet if the finished grade at the base of the sign is a minimum of 10 feet from the grade of the freeway.

Sites Not Adjacent to the Freeway in the Regional Commercial District. For commercial sites that are not adjacent to the freeway but are within the Regional Commercial District and within 500 feet from freeway right-of-way, the maximum sign height for any appurtenant freestanding, freeway-oriented outdoor advertising sign shall be 55 feet measured from the uppermost point of the sign down to the finished grade at the base of the sign.

Sign Area. The maximum sign area for any appurtenant freestanding, freeway-oriented outdoor advertising sign shall not exceed the following: 100 square feet for commercial sites which are subject to the conditions in subsection (F)(1) above; 350 square feet for commercial sites that meet the minimum freeway frontage standards in subsection (F)(2) above, and 450 square feet for non-adjacent commercial sites that meet the location standards in subsection (F)(3) above. In no case shall the overall height of the sign area exceed 60 percent of the overall height of the freeway sign measured from the uppermost point of the sign to the finished grade at the base of the sign.

Design Standards. The design of any appurtenant freestanding, freeway-oriented outdoor advertising sign shall contain architectural elements within the sign area and the support structures shall contain a decorative cover. Flat plastic sign panels with printed lettering shall be prohibited.

The appurtenant freestanding, freeway-oriented outdoor advertising sign shall contain landscaping with irrigation around the base of the sign. Landscaping and irrigation plans shall be submitted with the sign permit application and utilize a variety of decorative ground cover and shrubs.

Approval. The Development Services Director, or designee, shall have the authority to approve any appurtenant freestanding, freeway-oriented outdoor advertising sign that meets the requirements of this subsection.

Relocated Off-Premises Advertising Displays. All relocated off-premises advertising displays as provided in Section 17.15.090 may be permitted.

Special Signs. All special signs as provided in Section 17.15.100 may be permitted.

Subject Matter or Advertising. Any outdoor advertising structure shall contain thereon only such subject matter or advertising which refers to goods or services produced, sold, or displayed on the premises upon which such sign or structure is located, excepting off-site real estate signs as provided in Section 17.15.110, and relocated off-premises advertising displays as provided in Section 17.15.090.

Signs in Shopping Centers. Shopping centers shall have a coordinated sign program (sign criteria) for the entire center with the individual tenant sign proposals approved by the owner or lessor prior to submittal for design review for approval.

Detached Signs. All detached signs shall be located within a landscaped planter, as approved by design review. The base of any detached sign shall be constructed of masonry, wood, or other suitable building material which is architecturally harmonious with the development to which the sign is appurtenant.

Statue Signs. Statues designed primarily for commercial-promotional activity shall be subject to review and approval by design review.

Wall Decorations. In the MU (mixed use) zone, where walls are decorated with scenic or artistic paintings or murals which do not in themselves either advertise a product, or tend to become a mere extension or enlargement of a sign or other advertising materials, such scenic, architectural, or artistic paintings or murals, shall be construed as a textural treatment of the wall surface and shall be subject to review and approval by the design review process.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017; Ord. 1974 § 2, 2023)

§ 17.15.090 Off-Premises Advertising Displays Pursuant to Relocation Agreement.

Pursuant to Business and Professions Code Section 5412, a legal, nonconforming off-premises advertising display or billboard may be relocated and reconstructed pursuant to a relocation agreement, pursuant to the following guidelines and requirements.

Purpose. The purpose of a relocation agreement is to reduce the overall number of off-premises advertising displays within the City; to allow relocation of off-premises advertising displays to more suitable locations; and to provide more attractive, aesthetically-pleasing off-premises advertising display designs. A further purpose is to reduce or eliminate the City's obligation to expend public funds for the removal of legal nonconforming off-premises advertising displays. Relocation agreements are part of the demonstrated commitment of the City to improve the aesthetic appearance of the City in a manner consistent with State law.

Authority. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Chapter 17.15, and consistent with the California Business and Professions Code outdoor advertising provisions, including Business and Professions Code Section 5412, existing off-premises advertising displays may be removed, relocated, replaced and/or reconstructed as part of a relocation agreement between the City and an off-premises advertising display owner and/or property owner.

Categories of Relocation Agreements. The City Council shall be authorized to enter into the following types of relocation agreements, each with specific requirements.

Relocated Off-Premises Displays on Private Property. The relocation agreement shall provide that for every off-premises advertising display that is relocated and constructed at a relocation site, the owner of the off-premises advertising display must commit to the permanent removal of a minimum of four existing, legal nonconforming off-premises advertising displays located within the City. If the off-premises advertising display is relocated and constructed at a relocation site owned by the City the owner of the off-premises advertising display may request to remove a smaller number, but in no case less than two existing, legal nonconforming off-premises advertising displays; subject to findings by the City Council that the terms of the relocation agreement offer enhanced benefit to the City. The existing, legal nonconforming off-premises advertising displays to be permanently removed need not be of the same type of off-premises advertising displays to be relocated pursuant to the relocation agreement.

Relocated Off-Premises Displays Accommodating a Public Need. Where removal of an existing off-premises advertising display is required to accommodate a public improvement or acquisition of public right-of-way by the City, the City may enter into a relocation agreement with the owner of the off-premises advertising display to alleviate the expenditure of public funds. Off-premises advertising displays relocated in order to accommodate a public need do not need to be accompanied by a net reduction in existing signs.

Status of Existing Off-Premises Advertising Display. Only off-premises advertising displays that comply with the City's municipal code or that are legal, nonconforming off-premises advertising displays as of the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this section are eligible to be relocated pursuant to a relocation agreement.

Placement of Relocated Off-Premises Advertising Display. Relocated off-premises advertising displays may only be constructed on property located within mixed use, commercial and industrial zoning districts, or on City of Upland owned property regardless of zone, including freeway-oriented commercial and industrial sites.

Type of Relocated Off-Premises Advertising Display. Relocated off-premises advertising displays may include any type of sign authorized or described under this Zoning Code, including electronic changeable-copy signs.

Content. Each relocation agreement shall contain, at a minimum, the following information:

Identification of the location of the relocated off-premises advertising display(s) and, if removal of further sign area is required, off-premises advertising display(s) being permanently removed, provided, however, that the relocation agreement may defer identification of the specific locations of the relocated off-premises advertising displays where the relocation agreement provides that the locations for development of the relocated off-premises advertising displays shall be subject to future City Council approval; and

Conceptual design drawings for the relocated off-premises advertising display(s), including height and design. The design standards applicable to relocated off-premises advertising display(s) shall be as set forth in the relocation agreement approved by the City Council pursuant to this chapter.

Review Process. All relocation agreements shall be reviewed and approved by the City Council. The following findings must be made by the City Council in order to approve a relocation agreement:

The proposed agreement is consistent with the goals, objectives, purposes and provisions of the Upland General Plan and the Upland Municipal Code;

The proposed relocation site is compatible with the uses and structures on the site and in the surrounding area;

The proposed relocation agreement either: contributes to the reduction of visual clutter in the City by proposing a net decrease in existing off-premises advertising displays, resulting in a reduction in advertising square footage within the City; promotes activities of City-wide benefit and interest or generates significant revenue for the City; or in the case of relocations to accommodate a public project, the agreement serves the public interest eliminating the need for public fund expenditure;

The proposed off-premises advertising display would not create a traffic or safety problem with regard to onsite access circulation or visibility;

The proposed off-premises advertising display would not interfere with onsite parking or landscaping required by City ordinance or permit; and

The proposed off-premises advertising display would not otherwise result in a threat to the general health, safety and welfare of City residents.

Sign Permit Required. Subsequent to the approval of a relocation agreement by the City Council, the off-premises advertising display owner and/or property owner shall file an application for a sign permit to relocate or reconstruct the off-premises advertising display as authorized by the relocation agreement, pursuant to the provisions of Section 17.15.030. The City is authorized to issue a sign permit upon receipt of documentation of approval from the Development Services Director that the design and location of the proposed relocated off-premises advertising display(s) as specified in the sign permit application is consistent with the conceptual relocated off-premises advertising display design approved by the City Council as part of the relocation agreement.

Nonconforming Off-Premises Advertising Displays. Any nonconforming off-premises advertising display relocated or reconstructed pursuant to an approved relocation agreement shall no longer be considered nonconforming for purposes of this Code.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.100 Special Signs Permitted—General.

Subject to compliance with provisions of Section 17.15.080, the following special types and classifications of signs may be permitted subject to compliance with the limitations and conditions prescribed herein; provided further, that the area of any such signs shall not be included in computing the total allowable sign area or number of signs permitted for any lot or use.

Name signs or nameplates, which do not exceed one square foot in area and displaying only the name of the property or the premises upon which displayed or the owner or lessee thereof, or of the address thereon.

Informational signs, provided such sign is not more than five square feet in area, bearing no advertising message and located wholly within the lot to which the sign is appurtenant.

Street address numbers, no trespassing, no parking, and other warning signs, provided such sign is located on the lot to which the sign is appurtenant and not exceeding four square feet in area; one nonilluminated nameplate not exceeding two square feet in area for each dwelling unit.

Memorial signs or tablets, including names of buildings and dates of erection, provided they are cut into the surface or the façade of the building or project not more than two inches from the face of the building.

Public utility company signs, provided such sign indicates danger or serves as an aid to public safety, or shows the location of underground facilities or of public telephones.

Signs located in the interior of any building or within an enclosed lobby or court of any building or group of buildings, which signs are not visible from a public street, right-of-way, or parking lot.

Time and temperature devices, provided such sign is not higher than permitted detached signs, located on private property and bearing no advertising message.

Traffic or Other Municipal Signs (Signs Required by Law). Railroad crossing signs, legal notices, and such temporary emergency or nonadvertising signs as may be authorized by the Council.

Public Convenience Signs. Signs not exceeding one square foot in area, erected for the convenience of the public, such as signs identifying restrooms, walkways, and similar features or facilities.

Community Activity Signs. Signs specifically approved by the City Manager or designee for the purpose of advertising or identifying special civic events or activities deemed to be of Citywide significance and/or general public interest.

On-Site Real Estate Signs. The number shall be limited to one unlighted sign per lot or parcel not exceeding eight square feet in sign area nor more than six feet in height. Such sign shall be removed not more than 15 days after the close of escrow.

Entry monumentation signs, not exceeding 20 square feet in area nor four feet in height, may be permitted by design review approval in any commercial or industrial zone. Such entry monumentation signs shall contain only the name or street name and address of the business center, commercial development, or industrial park and shall be attached to walls which are an integral part of the landscaped design or the entry to the project. Not more than two such signs shall be permitted at each primary entrance.

Window signage, not exceeding 25 percent of any window, for the primary purpose of identification.

Signs visible from the taxiway of Cable Airport for the purpose of advertising aircraft-related services may be permitted by design review approval, provided such signs conform to the area and height requirements as set forth in Section 17.15.210.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.110 Temporary Real Estate Signs.

Temporary real estate signs for the purpose of sale, lease or rental of real property or buildings may be permitted subject to the following limitations:

Conditions for Approval—General.

Excepting on-site signs of six square feet in area or less, approval as provided in Section 17.15.030 and a valid building permit shall be obtained from the Building Department for any real estate sign.

Permit Fees and Deposits. Each application for a building permit for a temporary real estate sign shall be accompanied with a cash deposit, in an amount established by resolution of the City Council, for each sign so requested, which shall be posted with the City Finance Department to insure removal of such sign at the expiration of the time limit as specified herein.

A certificate or letter of authorization shall be obtained from the property owner of the property where the sign is to be located (granting authorization to install said sign).

Any such sign(s) shall be subject to design review and approval as provided in Section 17.15.030.

All signs shall be set back not less than 10 feet from the right-of-way line of any public street.

Not more than one real estate sign may be located within any 300 linear feet of street frontage nor may more than one real estate sign be located on the frontage of any one parcel.

No sign shall be so located as to create a hazardous traffic condition.

Time Limitation. Except as may be otherwise specified hereinafter, any temporary real estate sign shall be removed within 12 months from the date of approval or within 15 days after the close of escrow or date of lease or rental of such property, whichever period is the lesser; provided however, that such time limitation may be extended (for good cause shown) by the Community Development Director.

On-Site Real Estate Signs. One unlighted sign not exceeding 32 square feet in area nor exceeding 16 feet in height may be permitted on any lot in any zone, subject to the following limitations:

Subdivision Sales. Signs may be erected along each street frontage for the purpose of land and/or building sales in tracts, parcel maps, or records of survey, when two or more lots are involved and when the signs are located on the land to which the signs refer. Not more than four signs of any type or description shall be employed, and no one sign shall exceed an area of 50 square feet or 16 feet in height nor shall the aggregate area of all such signs exceed 100 square feet.

Off-Site Real Estate Signs. Off-site directional real estate signs, for the purpose of directing potential buyers or tenants to new residential subdivisions are permitted subject to the requirements set forth in Section 17.15.120.

Temporary Residential Real Estate "For Sale" Signs.

No signs shall be placed in any parkway of the City, on a street tree, or utility pole.

All signs shall be placed not less than 10 feet back from the curbline.

Along Euclid Avenue.

If there is a sidewalk, the sign shall be placed on residence side of the sidewalk.

If there is no sidewalk, the sign shall be placed to the rear of the treeline, toward the residence, a minimum of 10 feet from the curb.

No signs shall be posted at any time in the Euclid Avenue median or parkway.

Temporary Residential "Open House" Signs.

This allowance applies to Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays only.

One open house directional sign may be placed in the parkway at any two intersections of the City. An additional third sign will be allowed if the home is located within a cul-de-sac street.

Two flags and one open house sign may be placed in the parkway of the open house.

No open house flags or signs shall be allowed in the parkways on any day of the week except Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays.

No signs shall be posted at any time in the Euclid Avenue median or parkway, on a street tree, or utility pole.

Any open house signs remaining in the parkway after the weekend or holiday shall be subject to confiscation, and a citation may be issued after one written warning.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.120 Directional and Kiosk Signs.

Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide a uniform, coordinated method of offering developers a means of providing directional signs to their new residential development projects, while minimizing confusion among prospective purchasers who wish to inspect development projects, while promoting traffic safety and reducing the visual blight of the proliferation of signs. "New residential projects" means newly constructed subdivisions which are actively marketed to prospective buyers by the developer.

Prohibited Signs. Directional and kiosk signs, including travel direction signs, other than those on-site, are prohibited except as provided in this section.

Authority to Grant License. The City Council may, by duly executed license agreement, grant to a qualified person(s) the exclusive right to design, erect and maintain off-site directional and kiosk signs within the entire City, or any designated portion thereof. If such an agreement is implemented, all directional and kiosk signs shall be regulated and installed per the agreement and approvals between the licensee and the City. The licensee shall not install any new structures without express written consent of the Community Development Director.

License Required. No person shall erect or maintain any directional sign or kiosk sign within the City without first obtaining a license issued by the City Council. A license may be issued to locate a single directional sign in the public right-of-way at locations approved by the Community Development Director.

Location of Directional and Kiosk Structures. Directional signs and kiosk structures are subject to the following provisions:

Sign structures shall not obstruct the use of sidewalks, walkways, bike or multiuse trails;

Sign structures shall not obstruct the visibility of vehicles, pedestrians or traffic control signs;

Sign structures shall, where feasible, be combined with advance street name signs;

Sign structures shall not be installed in the immediate vicinity of street intersections;

Sign structures shall be limited to one structure between street intersections;

Sign structures shall be located not less than 600 feet from an existing or previously approved sign structure. Notwithstanding, sign structures on Euclid Avenue shall be located not less than 1,000 feet from an existing or previously approved sign structure;

No sign structure shall be permitted within the Euclid Avenue median;

The Community Development Director shall determine the minimum number of sign structures permitted under the license agreement(s) executed by the City Council. In determining the number of permitted sign structures, the Community Development Director shall consider that the purpose of this section is to provide adequate directional signs to new residential projects while promoting traffic safety and reducing visual blight due to the proliferation of signs.

Time Period. Sign structures shall be allowed for a maximum period of time concurrent with the approved time limit of the structure location as designated in the license agreement.

Design Standards for Directional and Kiosk Structures.

Sign structures shall be subject to review and approval by the Community Development Director through the design review process.

Sign structures shall be wood type with individual sign panels of uniform design and color throughout the City limits.

Sign structures shall not exceed eight feet in height.

The width of sign structures and sign panels shall not exceed five feet.

Sign panels shall not be illuminated. Flashing lights shall not be permitted.

Sign structure installation shall include break away design features where required by the building official or Public Works Director in right-of-way areas.

The lettering for each tract identification shall be uniform and shall be reviewed and approved by the Community Development Director or the appointed designee.

No attachments, tags, signs, streamers, devices, display boards, pennants, flags or other devices for visual attention or other appurtenances shall be placed on the directional or kiosk sign.

Sign panels shall be confined to the identification of new residential subdivisions which are actively marketed by the developer and a directional arrow. When a model complex closes, that project sign identification shall be immediately removed from the sign structure.

Insurance and Hold Harmless Requirements. Licensee shall accept liability for all signs and shall provide insurance naming the City as additionally insured in a form and with a company acceptable to the City Attorney. The City, and its officers and employees, shall be held free and harmless of all costs, claims, and damages levied against them.

Permits Required. All signs must have applicable building and safety and Community Development Department permits including a sign permit.

Signs on Private Property. All signs placed on a private property must receive written consent of the property owner, which shall be filed with the Community Development Department prior to issuance of a permit. Written consent shall give the City the right to enter the private property to remove any sign(s) not in conformance with this section or the license agreement.

Sign Location Plan.

A sign location plan shall be prepared showing the site of each directional sign and shall be submitted to the Community Development Department prior to the issuance of a sign permit.

Placement of signs must be in accordance with permit specifications from the City's Public Works Department.

All signs within public rights-of-way must have an encroachment permit.

The placement of each sign structure shall be reviewed and approved by the Community Development Director or appointed designee.

Maintenance. Licensee shall maintain all signs free of graffiti and in a neat, clean, orderly and weed-free condition. Graffiti shall be removed in accordance with Chapter 9.36 of the Upland Municipal Code.

Violation of License Agreement. All violations of the license agreement are to be corrected within 48 hours (two days).

Planning Commission Review. The Planning Commission shall conduct an annual review of the signs licensed pursuant to this section to ensure compliance with the municipal code and the license agreement. The Planning Commission shall forward their review and recommendations, if any, to the City Council.

Directional or Kiosk Sign Structures—Operation. The licensee shall make directional or kiosk sign panels available to all persons or entities selling residential subdivisions (hereinafter referred to as subdividers) on a first-come, first-serve basis. The licensee shall maintain a separate waiting list for each sign structure. Alternatively, a subdivider may apply to licensee for a sign panel program consisting of a single sign panel on each of a series of sign structures as needed to guide prospective purchasers to the subdivision.

Applicability. This chapter shall not apply to temporary off-site real estate signs lawfully installed prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter. Any such signs may remain and shall be subject to the conditions of approval set forth in the sign permit.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.130 Political Campaign Signs—General.

Political campaign signs shall be permitted in any zone subject to the granting of a permit by the City Manager or designee for each local, special, district, state, or national election, when such signs satisfy each of the following conditions.

Statement of Understanding. Applicants shall sign a statement indicating that they understand the regulations and that it is presumed that any sign advertising the candidacy of any particular candidate applicant was erected and/or placed by and with consent of that candidate applicant. Likewise, it is presumed that all signs advertising or propounding a particular affirmative or negative vote on an issue and/or proposal were placed and/or erected by the person or committee applicant propounding that proposition.

Time Limit. All signs advertising candidates or specific issues shall be removed within 10 days after the date of the election by the candidate, person or committee applicant advertising the candidacy, issue or proposal.

Maximum Total Area. No sign shall exceed six square feet in total area in residential zones, nor more than 16 square feet in commercial or industrial zones.

Maximum Height. The sign shall not exceed an overall height of four feet in residential zones, nor more than six feet in commercial or industrial zones.

Lighting. The sign shall not be lighted either directly or indirectly.

Attachment. The sign shall not be attached to any tree, fence post, utility pole, nor affixed in any permanent manner to any structure.

Location. No sign shall be posted in the public right-of-way.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017; Ord. 1968 § 3, 2022)

§ 17.15.140 Construction Signs.

Construction signs not exceeding 32 square feet may be maintained in any zone on an active construction site. A valid permit must be obtained prior to erection of the sign. Any such sign(s) shall be removed not later than three working days after the Building Department shall have determined the project to be completed.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.150 Flags, Banners, Pennants, Balloons, Window and Interior Signs.

Use. The use of flags, banners, pennants, balloons, and exterior window signs is prohibited except in connection with promotional sales sign programs of businesses which meet the requirements as described in this chapter.

Time Limitations. Flags, banners, pennants, and exterior window signs will be permitted for a maximum of eight weeks within each quarter.

Size of Signs, Flags, or Banners.

The maximum size of any banner, flag or pennant shall not exceed 120 square feet.

Interior and window signs shall not obscure more than 50 percent of the total window area of any window visible from a public street, right-of-way, or parking lot.

Maximum Number. Not more than one banner or pennant shall be displayed on each frontage on a public street, right-of-way, or parking lot.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.160 Residential Signs—General.

Except as provided in Section 17.15.100, no outdoor advertising sign shall be erected, installed, or maintained for the identification or advertising of any residential use except as permitted herein; provided, further, that the following additional provisions shall apply:

All signs shall be stationary;

No signs, excepting nameplates, shall be directly lighted;

Roof signs shall be prohibited;

All signs shall be subject to review and approval by the design review board.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.170 Single-Family Residences.

Identification Signs. Two single-faced or one double-faced identification sign at the main point of entry to the development, containing only the name and street address of the development, not exceeding 24 square feet in area for each face, and not exceeding four feet in height. One additional 24 square foot, four-foot high single-faced identification sign shall be permitted along any other public street right-of-way upon which the property has frontage, providing such street frontage exceeds 330 feet. The setback of the particular zone shall apply.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.180 Multiple-Family Residences.

In addition to signs authorized in Section 17.15.100, the following signs may be permitted:

Identification Signs. Two single-faced or one double-faced identification sign at the main point of entry to the development, containing only the name and street address of the development, not exceeding 24 square feet in area for each face, and not exceeding four feet in height. One additional 24 square foot, four-foot-high single-faced identification sign shall be permitted along any other public street right-of-way upon which the property has frontage providing such street frontage exceeds 330 feet. The setbacks of the particular zone shall apply.

For Sale, Lease, or Hire Signs. One unlighted sign not to exceed 12 square feet in area pertaining only to the sale, lease or hire of the particular building, property or premises upon which displayed.

Temporary Identification and Advertising Signs. One on-site sign not exceeding 50 square feet in area. Such sign shall be permitted for a period of time not to exceed six months and may be renewed for one additional six month period. Such sign shall pertain only to the development on the property.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.190 Highway Commercial Signs—General.

No sign shall be erected, installed, or maintained on any highway-commercially zoned property or property used for highway commercial purposes except as provided hereinafter.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.200 Highway Commercial Zone—Attached Signs.

Attached signs as defined in this chapter, either lighted or unlighted, may be permitted on any building or structure in any highway commercial zone when used for any highway commercial use, excepting a service station, subject to the provisions of this chapter and as provided in this section.

Allowable Sign Area. The maximum allowable area of any attached sign shall be based on a calculation of the linear dimension(s) of the building face(s) fronting on a public street, right-of-way, or parking lot, as follows:

Single-Occupancy Buildings. Allowable sign area shall not exceed one square foot for each linear foot of building face. One sign shall be permitted for each separate building frontage on a public street, right-of-way, or parking lot. In no case shall any such sign(s) exceed 120 square feet in area.

Multiple-Occupancy Buildings. In the case of a multiple-occupancy commercial site having a common wall or walls, the allowable attached sign area shall be one square foot per foot of building face. One sign shall be permitted for each street frontage of each separate occupancy. In no case shall any such sign(s) exceed 120 square feet in area.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.210 Highway Commercial Zone—Detached Signs.

Excepting as provided in Section 17.15.100, Special signs permitted—General, detached signs shall be permitted in the CH highway commercial zone, subject to the following limitations:

Allowable Number of Signs. Not more than one detached identification sign shall be permitted for each lot frontage along a public street, except as permitted in subsection E of this section.

Allowable Height of Permitted Signs.

Sites of Five Acres or Less. Detached signs shall not exceed 12 feet in height.

Sites of More than Five Acres. Detached signs shall not exceed 16 feet in height.

Attachments to Permitted Signs. There shall be no attachment of other signs or panels to detached signs unless approved by the design review board.

Area of Permitted Signs. One hundred square feet.

Sign Incentive. Where a multiple-occupancy building utilizes only a monument sign as a detached sign containing no more than 60 square feet in area and not exceeding eight feet in overall sign height, a second monument sign, not to exceed 60 square feet in area and a maximum of eight feet in height, may be permitted on the same street frontage, provided the monument signs are separated by a minimum of 100 feet.

Sign Setback. No detached sign, as permitted in this section, shall be located less than 15 feet from any property line separating the multiple-occupancy center from another property.

Internal Directory. One internal directory sign containing a list of businesses located in a multiple-use center, not exceeding six feet in height and a maximum of 48 square feet in area, shall be permitted adjacent each main entry drive of a commercial center provided such sign is located a minimum of 50 feet from a public street and further provided that such sign is not designed to be readily visible from a public street.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.220 Highway Commercial Zone—Electronic Changeable-Copy Signs.

Electronic changeable-copy signs shall not be permitted in the HC highway commercial zone, except by the issuance of a conditional use permit or pursuant to a relocation agreement as provided under Section 17.15.090. Electronic changeable-copy signs approved pursuant to a conditional use permit, but not relocated off-premises advertising displays approved in accordance with Section 17.15.090, shall be subject to the following requirements:

Site. The minimum site area for any proposed electronic changeable-copy signs shall be no less than two and one-half acres, with no less than 250 feet of lineal frontage on a major arterial or freeway, as defined by the circulation element of the general plan, excepting Euclid Avenue Scenic Corridor, where such electronic changeable-copy signs as discussed in this section shall be prohibited.

Land Use. The installation of an electronic changeable-copy sign shall be limited to those uses which are characterized by specialized outdoor sales, as follows: Those uses which rely on the outside display of merchandise as a primary means of business, with 80 percent or more of this merchandise placed outdoors. This description shall include such enterprises as car dealerships, recreational vehicle sales and home improvement centers in such locations where such uses are permitted. This land use requirement shall not be satisfied by agencies for the sales, leasing or brokering of automobiles, recreational vehicles or other similar merchandise for which the merchandise is stored at another location.

Allowable Height. The allowable height of an electronic changeable-copy sign shall be established by a line-of-site study; however, in no case shall the height exceed 25 feet.

Allowable Sign Area. The allowable sign area of an electronic changeable-copy shall not exceed 100 square feet, with an additional 25 square feet of sign area being permitted for other general identification.

Allowable Number of Signs. No more than one electronic changeable-copy sign shall be permitted per site.

Sign Setbacks.

Driveways, Buildings or Other Obstructions. No electronic changeable-copy sign shall be located closer than three feet to the nearest driveway, building or other obstruction.

Side Property Lines. No electronic changeable-copy sign shall be located less than 25 feet from any adjacent side property line.

Front Property Lines. No electronic changeable-copy sign shall be located closer than five feet from the front property line to any portion of the sign, excepting on those properties which have frontage on a public right-of-way with a width of 175 feet or greater.

Design Standards. All proposed electronic changeable-copy signs and attendant landscaping and irrigation plans shall be subject to review of the design review board. The recommendations of the design review board shall be presented to the Planning Commission, during consideration of the conditional use permit. The scope of review by the design review board shall include consideration of all the following:

That the proposed sign displays are proportional to its face and its supporting structures;

That the proposed sign and its supporting structure contains a full architectural treatment which is consistent with and complementary to the architectural design, massing, color, size and treatment of the business itself; and is harmonious with the general character of immediately surrounding properties;

That the proposed sign site shall incorporate dense landscaping, to visually reduce the mass and size of the sign as it appears from all public rights-of-way. Such landscaping may include the provision of berming, street trees, on-site landscape islands and landscaped setbacks, as needed, to provide an appropriate context for the proposed sign. The sign itself shall be placed within a landscaped and irrigated planter area;

That the proposed sign shall serve as the primary identification sign for the property, and shall replace any other existing primary identification structure which serves this purpose;

That the sign does not distract motorists or create other traffic or safety hazards.

Conditions. Prior to the approval of a conditional use permit for an electronic changeable-copy sign, the Planning Commission shall impose the following requirements, together with any additional conditions deemed necessary:

That the changeable commercial message display intervals shall change no more frequently than once every eight seconds; and that blinking and/or moving characters shall be prohibited;

That a time and temperature display of at least eight seconds shall be required to appear during every two minutes of operation;

That public service messages shall constitute 10 percent of the messages displayed during each one-hour period. These public service messages are in addition to the required time and temperature displays. All public service messages shall be subject to City approval and shall be reviewed on an annual basis, or as deemed necessary;

That the sign shall be properly maintained so that inoperative or improperly lighted bulbs do not impair the appearance and legibility of the sign;

That no off-site advertising or messages, other than public service information approved by the City, shall be displayed;

That the proposed sign will not create a traffic hazard by distracting drivers or any obstructing traffic visibility;

That the electronic changeable-copy sign shall be screened, tinted, shielded or otherwise modified, as necessary, to eliminate excessive glare, as deemed sufficient by the Planning Director.

Findings. Approval of a conditional use permit for an electronic changeable-copy sign shall include the following findings:

That the proposed electronic changeable-copy sign serves a legitimate advertising need for a specialized outdoor sales operation;

That the proposed sign will not be disruptive to other properties and land uses within 300 feet;

That the proposed sign does not disrupt a view or scenic corridor identified in the City's general plan;

That the proposed sign incorporates sufficient landscaping to visually mitigate the height, mass and size of the sign;

That the proposed sign is designed to complement and enhance the architectural features of the proposed site and its surroundings;

That the proposed sign does not create a traffic hazard;

That the proposed sign is to be installed in conjunction with a comprehensive plan of site renovation and enhancement.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.230 All Commercial and Professional Zones, Including OP, NC, RC, CA (Excepting HC and MU).

No sign shall be erected, installed, or maintained on any commercially or professionally zoned property used for commercial or professional purposes except as provided herein or pursuant to a relocation agreement as provided under Section 17.15.090.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.240 Commercial or Professional Zone, Excepting HC—Attached Signs.

Attached signs as defined in this chapter, either lighted or unlighted, may be permitted on any building or structure in any commercial or professional zone (excepting HC) when used for any commercial or professional use, excepting a service station, subject to the provisions of this chapter and as provided in this section.

Allowable Sign Area. The maximum allowable area of any attached sign shall be based on a calculation of the linear dimension(s) of the building face(s) fronting on a public street, as follows:

Single-Occupancy Buildings. Allowable sign area shall not exceed one square foot for each linear foot of building face. A maximum of two signs shall be permitted for each separate building frontage on a public street.

Multiple-Occupancy Buildings. In the case of a multiple-occupancy commercial or professional site having a common wall or walls, the allowable attached sign area shall be one-half square foot per foot of building face. In no case shall any such sign(s) exceed 60 square feet in area.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.250 Commercial or Professional Zone, Excepting HC—Detached Signs.

Excepting as provided in Section 17.15.100, Special Signs Permitted—General, the following limitations shall apply for all single-and multiple-occupancy uses in all commercial (excepting HC) and professional zones provided hereinafter.

Allowable Number of Signs. Not more than one detached identification sign shall be permitted for each lot frontage along a public street.

Allowable Height of Permitted Signs. Detached signs shall not exceed eight feet in height and shall be constructed to be architecturally compatible with the adjacent building.

Attachments to Permitted Signs. There shall be no attachment of other signs or panels to detached signs unless approved by the design review.

Area of Permitted Signs. Thirty-six square feet.

Sign Setback. No detached sign as permitted in Section 17.15.210 shall be located less than 15 feet from any property line separating one parcel from another parcel.

Internal Directory. One internal directory sign containing a list of businesses located in a multiple-use center, not exceeding five feet in height and a maximum of 20 square feet in area shall be permitted adjacent each main entry drive of a commercial center provided the sign is located a minimum of 50 feet from a public street and further provided that the sign is not designed to be readily visible from a public street.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.260 Industrial Signs.

Signs and outdoor advertising are permitted in any industrial zone provided they are located on the premises of the use to which such signs pertain and subject to the following provisions.

Attached Signs. The following limitations shall apply for any industrial zone excepting in the airport industrial zone, wherein the provisions of Section 17.15.190, Highway Commercial Signs—General, shall apply:

Single-Occupancy Buildings. Allowable sign area shall not exceed one-half square foot for each linear foot of building face. A maximum of two signs shall be permitted for each separate building frontage on a public street. An allowable sign area of three-quarters square feet for each linear foot of building shall be permitted where only one sign exists per street frontage.

Multiple-Occupancy Buildings. In the case of a multiple-occupancy industrial site having a common wall or walls, the allowable attached sign area shall be one square foot per linear foot of building face. In no case shall any such sign exceed 120 square feet in area.

Detached Signs. The following limitations shall apply for any industrial zone excepting in the airport industrial zone, wherein the provisions of Section 17.15.190, Highway Commercial Signs—General, shall apply:

Maximum Number of Signs. Not more than one sign shall be located in any 100 feet of lot frontage and such signs shall be not less than 100 feet from the closest other sign; provided, however, that lots of record at the effective date of Ordinance No. 553, April 20, 1958, shall be permitted to have at least one sign for each such lot.

Sign Setback. Minimum setback from residential or agricultural districts shall be not less than 50 feet. The minimum setback for an industrial zone totally within an industrial area shall not be less than 10 feet.

Area of Signs. The maximum allowable area of freestanding signs shall be 48 square feet.

Directional Signs. Signs used for directional purposes are permitted in these zones. Such signs shall not be larger than 50 square feet in area.

Internal Directory. One internal directory sign containing a list of businesses located in a multiple-use center, not exceeding six feet in height and a maximum of 48 square feet in area shall be permitted adjacent each main entry drive of a commercial center provided the sign is located a minimum of 50 feet from a public street and further provided that the sign is not designed to be readily visible from a public street.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)

§ 17.15.270 Signs in Special Purpose Zones or Areas, Including Agricultural Zones.

Signs in P Parking District. No signs, billboards, or advertising statuary, other than those referring to sponsorship, availability, and charges for parking space on a lot shall be permitted. The provisions of Section 17.15.080 and the following shall apply:

One sign for each entrance to a parking lot shall be permitted provided that the sign shall not exceed one-half square foot of area for each one linear foot of street fronting upon the subject lot, and further provided that no single sign shall exceed 48 square feet in area.

Exit signs not to exceed six square feet in area shall be permitted at each exit from the parking lot to any abutting street or alley.

Signs in OS Open Space, Agricultural and SP Special Land Use Zones. No outdoor advertising structures shall be permitted in the OS, SP, Ag-C-40, or Ag40 zones except identification signs not exceeding 75 square feet in area erected for the convenience of the public as determined by the design review board.

Permitted Signs for Automotive Service Stations. All signs and advertising displays shall be in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 17.22, Automotive and Vehicle Service, Sales and Storage.

Detached Signs on Euclid Avenue. Detached signs on Euclid Avenue are expressly prohibited except for a business with frontage on Euclid Avenue which may have such detached sign as may be approved by the design review board, providing the business can demonstrate to the design review board the following facts:

That the allowable attached sign will not be adequately visible to attract business from public street traffic by reason of the obstruction of adjacent buildings, landscaping, setback line of the applicant's own business or other cause; and

That the proposed sign and the proposed placement thereof will blend harmoniously with the surrounding property and the beauty of Euclid Avenue. The decision of the design review board shall be appealable to the Council upon the same terms and conditions as any decision of the design review board is appealable in pursuance to the terms of this Code.

Signs in the Scenic Corridor Overlay Zone. All signs and advertising displays shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section 17.09.030, Scenic Corridor Overlay Zone.

Electronic Changeable-Copy Signs at High Schools.

Land Use/Applicability. This section regulates the installation of an electronic changeable-copy sign at a high school within the Public/Institutional (PB/I) zone. "Animated signs" are not permitted.

Review Authority.

All applications for a permit required by this chapter must be made in writing on such form as the Development Services Director prescribes.

The Development Services Director or designee shall approve, conditionally approve, or deny all applications.

The Development Services Director or designee may choose to refer any application to the Planning Commission for review and final decision.

Application Required. No electronic changeable-copy sign shall be constructed, located or modified within the City on any property, including the public right-of-way, without the approval of an application and issuance of a permit as required by this chapter, and in compliance with all provisions of this chapter.

Allowable Height. The maximum allowable height of an electronic changeable-copy sign shall be 18 feet.

Allowable Sign Area. The allowable sign area of an electronic changeable-copy shall not exceed 60 square feet, with an additional 25 square feet of sign area being permitted for other general identification.

Allowable Number of Signs. No more than one electronic changeable-copy sign shall be permitted per site.

Sign Setbacks.

Driveways, Buildings, or Other Obstructions. No electronic changeable-copy sign shall be located closer than three feet to the nearest driveway, building, or other obstruction.

Side Property Lines. No electronic changeable-copy sign shall be located less than 25 feet from any adjacent side property line.

Front Property Lines. No electronic changeable-copy sign shall be located closer than five feet from the front property line to any portion of the sign, except when the City of Upland Grants an Encroachment License Agreement for a sign within the public right-of-way.

Vision Triangles. Vision triangles required under Section 17.10.060(C) shall be maintained.

Location Standards. Signs shall be located adjacent to a public street and shall not face onto solely residential zoned property.

Design Standards. All proposed support structures for an electronic changeable-copy signs shall include decorative materials and the sign structure shall be placed within a decorative landscape planter.

10.

Findings. Approval of a sign design/criteria review for an electronic changeable-copy sign shall include the following findings:

That the proposed electronic changeable-copy sign serves a high school within a Public (PB) zone.

That the light and glare generated from the proposed sign will not be disruptive to other properties and land uses within 300 feet of the sign.

That the proposed sign does not disrupt a view or scenic corridor identified in the City's General Plan.

That the proposed sign does not create a traffic hazard.

11.

Conditions of Approval. The review authority may add conditions of approval to the operation of the sign to ensure the protection of public health, safety and welfare in addition to the following:

That the changeable message display intervals shall change no more frequently than once every eight seconds; and that blinking and/or moving characters, except when necessary to transition to the next message, shall be prohibited;

That the sign shall be properly maintained so that inoperative or improperly lighted bulbs do not impair the appearance and legibility of the sign;

That no off-site advertising or messages shall be displayed excepting City of Upland messaging;

That the electronic changeable-copy sign shall be screened, tinted, shielded or otherwise modified, as necessary, to eliminate excessive glare, as deemed sufficient by the Development Services Director; and

That the sign shall be dimmed to a maximum of 20 percent brightness capacity between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., in order to reduce light and glare impacts.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017; Ord. 1952 § 3, 2021)

§ 17.15.280 Appeals.

Any decision by the Community Development Director, administrative committee, or design review board pertaining to signs may be appealed pursuant to Chapter 17.47, Referrals, Appeals, and Calls for Review, of the Upland Municipal Code.

(Ord. 1927 § 2, 2017)