City of Woodland, CA Chapter 17.72 SIGNS

§ 17.72.010 Purpose.

This chapter regulates signs in a manner that expresses the character and environment of the City of Woodland and implements the General Plan, consistent with State and Federal law. These regulations recognize the importance of business activity to the economic vitality of the City as well as the need to protect the visual environment. This chapter promotes the public health, safety, and welfare through a comprehensive system of reasonable, effective, consistent, content-neutral, and nondiscriminatory sign standards and requirements. More specifically, this chapter is intended to:

A. Ensure that all signs are compatible with the unique character and environment of the City, and that they support the desired ambience and development patterns of the various districts and historic areas within the City;

B. Balance public and private objectives by allowing adequate avenues for both commercial and noncommercial messages;

C. Allow signs to serve as an effective channel of communication while preventing signs that may create visual clutter, or nuisance to nearby properties, violate privacy, or create hazards or unreasonable distractions for pedestrians and drivers;

D. Prevent property damage, personal injury, and litter caused by signs that are improperly constructed or maintained;

E. Protect and improve property values, the local economy, and quality of life by preserving and enhancing the appearance of the streetscape;

F. Encourage creative and innovative approaches to signage within an established framework; and

G. Provide clear and unambiguous sign design standards that enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations, and

H. Ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right of free speech is protected.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025)

§ 17.72.020 Applicability.

A. This chapter applies to all signs within the City regardless of their nature or location, unless otherwise specifically exempted in subsection F, Exempt Signs.

1. Standards for permanent signs are found in § 17.72.050, Standards for Permanent Signs.

2. Standards for temporary signs are found in § 17.72.060, Standards for Temporary Signs.

B. The provisions of this chapter shall be applied in a content-neutral manner. Non-communicative aspects of all signs, not related to the content of the sign, shall comply with the provisions of this chapter. "Noncommunicative aspects" include the time, place, manner, location, size, height, illumination, spacing, and orientation of signs.

C. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit a person from holding a sign while picketing or protesting on public property that has been determined to be a traditional or designated public forum, so long as the person holding the sign does not block ingress and egress from buildings, create a safety hazard by impeding travel on sidewalks, in bike or vehicle lanes, or on trails, or violate any other reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions adopted by the City.

D. All regulations included in this chapter shall apply unless a Master Sign Program is approved by the Planning Commission; see § 17.72.030.C. Entry into an agreement between the City and a developer for a Master Sign Program may supersede this chapter, except for matters of public safety.

E. Substitutions and Interpretations.

1. This chapter is not intended to, and does not, restrict speech on the basis of its content, viewpoint, or message. No part of this chapter shall be construed to favor commercial speech over noncommercial speech. A noncommercial message may be substituted for any commercial or noncommercial message displayed on a sign, or the content of any noncommercial message displayed on a sign may be changed to a different noncommercial message, without the need for any approval or permit, provided that the size of the sign is not altered and the sign otherwise complies with the provisions of this chapter. To the extent any provision of this chapter is ambiguous, the term will be interpreted not to regulate on the basis of the content of the message.

2. This chapter applies to all signs within the City. When there is any question regarding the interpretation of a provision of this chapter, or its application to any specific case or situation, the Director shall interpret the intent of this chapter.

3. All regulations included in this chapter shall apply unless a Master Sign Program is approved by the Planning Commission; see § 17.100.140 Sign Permit—Permanent Signs. Entry into agreement between the City of Woodland and a developer for a Master Sign Program may supersede this chapter except for matters of public safety.

F. Exempt Signs. The following are not regulated under this chapter, do not count toward the maximum total sign area for all permanent signs, and do not require a Sign Permit:

1. Government Signs. Any sign, posting, notice or similar signs placed, installed, or required by law by a City, County, or a Federal or State governmental agency in carrying out its responsibility to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, including the following:

a. Numerals and letters identifying an address from the street to facilitate emergency response and compliant with City requirements,

b. Emergency and warning signs necessary to warn of dangerous and hazardous conditions and that serve to aid public safety or civil defense,

c. Traffic signs erected and maintained by an authorized public agency,

d. Signs required to be displayed by any applicable Federal, State, or local law, regulation, or ordinance,

e. Signs directing the public to points of interest, and

f. Signs showing the location of public facilities;

2. Incidental Signs. Incidental signs not to exceed a total of three square feet in sign area for all permanent signs in the R-1 and N-P zones and six square feet in all other zones;

3. Signs not Readable from the Public Right-of-Way. Signs not readable from the public right-of-way, including:

a. Signs or displays located entirely inside of a building, within a courtyard, open-air pedestrian space or similar open area and not visible from the building's exterior,

b. Signs intended to be readable from within a parking area or City park but not readable beyond the boundaries of the lot or parcel upon which they are located or from any public right-of-way; and

4. Historic Plaques and Commemorative Signs. Historic plaques, memorial signs or tablets, or signs indicating the names of buildings and dates they were erected, either attached to or cut into the surface of buildings, provided that no such sign exceeds four square feet in area.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025)

§ 17.72.030 Sign Permits.

The procedures for submittal, review, and approval of permanent signs and for a Master Sign Program, inclusive of any required fees, are established in the following Sections:

A. Section 17.100.140, Sign Permit—Permanent Signs, for all permanent building-mounted and freestanding signs;

B. Section 17.100.150, Sign Permits—Master Sign Program, for all Master Sign Programs; and

C. A Sign Permit is not required for a sign on property used exclusively for a single-family residence or duplex.

D. Nonstructural Modifications and Maintenance. A Sign Permit is not required for the following:

1. Changes to the face or copy of changeable copy signs;

2. Changes to the face or copy of an existing single-tenant or multi-tenant freestanding or building-mounted nonilluminated sign from one business to another with no structural or lighting modifications to the sign; and

3. The normal repair and maintenance of conforming or legal nonconforming signs, except as identified in § 17.72.040.K, Sign Maintenance.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025)

§ 17.72.040 General Standards for All Signs.

A. Sign Message. Any permitted sign may contain, in lieu of any other message or copy, any lawful noncommercial message, so long as the sign complies with the size, height, area, location, and other requirements of this chapter.

B. Location Standards. All signs may not be placed in the following locations or manner, except where specifically authorized in this chapter:

1. Architectural Features. Areas where a sign would cover the architectural features of a building, such as dormers, insignias, pilasters, soffits, transoms, trims, windows, or another architectural feature;

2. Accessory Structures. Tacked, painted, pasted, or otherwise affixed, to the walls of any building, barn or shed, accessory structure, or on trees, poles, posts, fences, ladders, or other structures that are visible from a public way. Signs may be attached to a fence or freestanding wall only when a ground sign is not present in the development and must be maximum three square feet in sign area;

3. Clearance Standards. Within the horizontal or vertical clearance standards from communications lines and energized electrical power lines prescribed by the laws of the State of California;

4. Fences and Walls. A fence or freestanding wall if a freestanding sign is present on the development;

5. Fuel Tanks, Storage Containers, and Solid Waste Receptacles. Painted, attached, or mounted on fuel tanks, storage containers and/or solid waste receptacles or their enclosures, except for a manufacturer's or installer's identification sign, appropriate warning signs and placards, and information required by law;

6. Off-Premises. Off the premises to which the sign refers, except as provided in § 17.72.060, Standards for Temporary Signs;

7. Public Utilities and Infrastructure. Any sign attached to any public utility pole, structure or streetlight, tree, fence, fire hydrant, bridge, curb, sidewalk, park bench, statue, memorial, or other location on public property, except those signs approved as part of a Special Event Permit on City property or banner signs permitted by the City on light poles within the City;

8. Right-of-Way. Within, on, or projecting over public property including City rights-of-way, except as specifically provided in this chapter;

9. Signs Mounted on a Roof. Except as allowed in Table 17.72.050.C-9: Standards for Roof-Mounted Signs; and

10. Vehicles. Mounted, attached, or painted on a trailer, boat, or motor vehicle when parked, stored, or displayed conspicuously on private premises in a manner intended to attract attention of the public for the purpose of advertising or identifying the business premises. This provision excludes signs indicating the name of the owner or business that are permanently painted or wrapped on the surface of the vehicle, adhesive vinyl film affixed to the interior or exterior surface of a vehicle window, or signs magnetically attached to motor vehicles or rolling stock that are actively used in the daily conduct of the business. Vehicles must be operable and parked in a lawful or authorized manner.

C. Parking of Mobile Billboards Prohibited. No person shall park or convey any mobile billboard advertising display as defined by this Zoning Code, either standing alone or attached to a motor vehicle, upon any public street or public lands in the City.

1. Removal of Mobile Billboard Advertising Displays Authorized. Pursuant California Vehicle Code § 22651(v) and (w), a peace officer, or any regularly employed and salaried employee of the City, who is authorized to engage and is engaged in directing traffic or enforcing parking laws and regulations may remove, or cause to be removed, the mobile billboard, or anything that the mobile billboard is attached to including a motor vehicle, located within the territorial limits of the City when the mobile billboard is found upon any public street or any public lands, if all of the following requirements are satisfied:

a. When a mobile billboard either standing alone or attached to a motor vehicle, is parked, or left standing in violation of the Zoning Code, and the registered owner of the vehicle or display was previously issued a warning notice or citation for the same offense;

b. A warning notice or citation was issued to a first-time offender at least 24 hours prior to the removal of the vehicle or display. The City is not required pursuant to California Vehicle Code § 22651(v)(2) and (w)(2) to provide further notice for a subsequent violation prior to enforcement; and

c. The warning notice or citation advised the registered owner of the vehicle or display that he or she may be subject to penalties upon a subsequent violation of this Zoning Code that may include removal of the vehicle or display.

2. Permanent Advertising Signs Excepted. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code § 21100(p)(2) and (p)(3), this section does not apply to advertising signs that are permanently affixed in a manner that is painted directly upon the body of a motor vehicle, applied as a decal on the body of a motor vehicle, or placed in a location on the body of a motor vehicle that was specifically designed by a vehicle manufacturer for the express purpose of containing an advertising sign, such that they are an integral part of, or fixture of a motor vehicle for permanent decoration, identification, or display and that do not extend beyond the overall length, width, or height of the vehicle.

3. Post Storage Impound Hearing. California Vehicle Code § 22852 of the California Vehicle Code applies to this section with respect to the removal of any mobile billboard advertising display vehicle. California Vehicle Code § 22852 is incorporated by reference as if set forth in full by this Zoning Code and provides, in summary, that whenever an authorized employee of the City directs the storage of a vehicle, the City shall direct the storage operator to provide the vehicle's registered and legal owner(s) of record, or their agent(s), with the opportunity for a post-storage hearing to determine the validity of the storage. Notice of the storage shall be mailed or personally delivered to the registered and legal owner(s) within 48 hours, excluding weekends, as specifically provided for under California Vehicle Code § 22852. To receive a post-storage hearing, the owner(s) of record, or their agent(s), must request a hearing in person, in writing, or by telephone within 10 days of the date appearing on the notice. The City may authorize its own officer or employee to conduct the hearing as long as the hearing officer is not the same person who directed the storage of the vehicle.

4. Violations and Penalties. A violation of this section is a misdemeanor, punishable upon conviction by a fine of not less than $250, nor more than $1,000, or by imprisonment in the County Jail for not more than six months, or by both fine and imprisonment. At the discretion of any person authorized by the Chief of Police to issue a citation for any violation of this section, or the City Attorney's office, a violation of this section may be an infraction enforced through the parking penalty process set forth in California Vehicle Code § 40200 et seq.

D. Display Standards. This subsection regulates the manner in which signs convey their messages by specifying prohibited display features that create distractions to the traveling public and create visual clutter that mar the natural and architectural aesthetics of the City. Signs with the following display features are prohibited:

1. Devices Affected by Movement. Any sign animated by any means, including fixed aerial displays, balloons, pennants, spinners, including strings of flags, streamers, tubes, or other devices affected by the movement of the air or other atmospheric or mechanical means;

2. Exposed Light Source. Any sign with an exposed light source, except for neon LED strip lights incorporated into the design of the sign;

3. Flashing Lights. Any sign or lighting device, whether on the exterior of a building or on the inside of a window which is visible beyond the boundaries of the lot or parcel, or from any public right-of-way, with intermittent, flashing, rotating, blinking, or strobe light illumination, including search lights;

4. Fluorescent Colors. Any sign which uses fluorescent colors;

5. Rotating Signs and Barber Poles. Any sign in which the sign body or any portion of the sign rotates, moves up and down, or any other type of action involving a change in position of the sign body or any portion of the sign, whether by mechanical or any other means. Barber poles no larger than three feet high and 10 inches in diameter, and clocks, are excepted from this restriction;

6. String of Lights. Strings of lights arranged in the shape of a product, arrow, or any commercial message; and

7. Visible Matter and Motion Picture Projection. Any sign which emits sound, odor, smoke, laser or hologram lights, or other visible matter, including any sign that uses motion picture projection.

E. Signs that Create a Traffic Hazard or Affecting Pedestrian Safety. All signs may not be placed in locations or manner that constitute a safety hazard or to impede the public use of the public right-of-way, except where specifically authorized in this chapter:

1. Conflict with Traffic Signs. Any location that obstructs the view of any authorized traffic sign, signal, or other traffic control device or which by reason of shape, color, or position interferes with or could be confused with any authorized traffic signal or device;

2. Exits and Entrances. Any sign which is placed in a manner that would prevent or inhibit free ingress to or egress from any door, window, vent, or any exit way required by the Building Code or by Fire Department regulations;

3. Intersections. Any sign erected or maintained at or near any street intersection that will obstruct the free and clear vision of drivers and pedestrians;

4. Sidewalks. Any sign mounted or displayed in such a manner that it blocks or impedes the normal pedestrian use of public sidewalks. A minimum width of four feet must be maintained on sidewalks at all times; and

5. Site Visibility Triangle. Within the site visibility triangle as defined in § 17.64.110, Visibility at Intersections, that must be observed at all street intersections and the intersections of dedicated alleys or driveways with streets.

F. Prohibited Sign Types.

1. Any sign which advertises a business that is a prohibited use or no longer in existence or a product or service no longer being sold;

2. Bandit signs;

3. Cabinet signs, except as allowed for cabinet logo signs that are a maximum of four square feet in area or otherwise proportional to sign lettering on site, as approved by the Director;

4. Feather banner signs, except as provided in § 17.72.060, Standards for Temporary Signs;

5. One-dimensional signage, except as allowed for window signage, temporary signage, and painted signage;

6. Digital/electronic message signs, including, but not limited to, LED, LCD, or similar electronic message boards, are prohibited in all zoning districts except as expressly provided below:

a. Fuel Price Displays at Service Stations. Digital signs may be used solely to display gasoline or diesel fuel prices on monument signs located on the premises of legally established service stations. Such signs shall comply with all applicable size, height, and illumination standards, and shall not include any other digital content.

b. Public Facilities. Digital display signs may be permitted for public facilities, including hospitals and large-scale medical clinics, subject to the review and written approval of the Director. Digital signs must be tuned off during non-business hours and shall not shine into adjacent residential or other sensitive uses. The Director may impose conditions related to the size, location, duration, brightness, and content to ensure compatibility with surrounding land uses and to minimize visual impacts.

c. Digital billboard signs, as described in Section 17.72.050.D.2, Digital Billboard Signs;

7. Nondigital billboards;

8. Pole signs;

9. Signs installed on the roof of a building or structure, except as allowed in § 17.72.050.C.9, Roof-Mounted Signs;

10. Signs which bear or contain statements, words, or pictures of an obscene nature;

11. Sign walkers;

12. Statutory signs; and

13. Stuffed or inflated animals or characters used as signs.

G. Rules of Measurement.

1. Sign Area Measurement. Sign area is measured as follows:

a. Signs on Background Panel. Where the sign copy is mounted, affixed, or painted on a background panel or distinctively painted, textured, or constructed surface, the sign area is measured as the sum of the smallest rectangle(s) that will enclose both the sign copy and the background, as shown in Figure 17.72.040.G-1: Signs on Background Panel.

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-1: SIGNS ON BACKGROUND PANEL

b. Signs with Individual Letters. Where the sign has individual letters or graphics mounted against a wall, fascia, mansard, parapet, or other building surface that has not been distinctively painted, textured or constructed as a background panel, the sign area is measured as a sum of the smallest rectangle(s) that will enclose each word and each graphic in the total sign except for the descending elements of lower case letters, as shown in Figure 17.72.040.G-2: Signs with Individual Letters. Sign area for individual letters or graphics shall be counted as 75% of the area enclosing the sign copy.

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-2: SIGNS WITH INDIVIDUAL LETTERS

c. Irregular Shaped Signs. Sign area for irregular shaped signs is determined by dividing the sign into the smallest squares, rectangles, triangles, circles, or arcs that enclose each word or graphic in the sign, as shown in Figure 17.72.040. G-3: Irregular Shaped Signs.

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-3: IRREGULAR SHAPED SIGNS

d. Multi-Face Signs. The sign area for multi-face signs, as shown in Figure 17.72.04-0.G-4: Multi-Face Signs, are measured as follows:

i. Two-Face Signs. Where the interior angle between the two sign faces is 45° or less and the sign faces are less than 42 inches apart, the sign area is measured as the area of one sign face only. Where the angle between the two sign faces is greater than 45° the sign area is the sum of the areas of the two sign faces.

ii. Three- or Four-Face Signs. The allowable sign area is measured as 50% of the sum of the areas of all sign faces.

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-4: MULTI-FACE SIGNS

2. Sign Height Measurement.

a. Freestanding Signs. Sign height for freestanding signs is measured as the vertical distance from the finished grade to the top of the sign.

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-5: FREESTANDING SIGN HEIGHT

i. Higher Than Adjacent Grade. Where the grade at the base of a sign is higher than the grade of the adjacent road right-of-way, sign height is measured from the base of the sign, as shown in Figure 17.72.04.G-6: Freestanding Sign Height, Higher than Adjacent Grade.

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-6: FREESTANDING SIGN HEIGHT, HIGHER THAN ADJACENT GRADE

ii. Lower Than Adjacent Grade. Where the grade at the base of a sign is lower than the grade of an adjacent road right-of-way, the height of the sign is measured from the top of curb elevation, as shown in Figure 17.72.040.G-7: Freestanding Sign Height, Lower than Adjacent Grade (the portion of the sign below the grade at the edge of the right-of-way shall not be included in determining the sign's overall height).

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-7: FREESTANDING SIGN HEIGHT, LOWER THAN ADJACENT GRADE

b. Wall Signs. The height of building-mounted signs is the vertical distance measured from the base of the wall on which the sign is located to the top of the sign or sign structure, as shown in Figure 17.72.040.G-8: Wall Sign Height.

FIGURE 17.72.040.G-8: WALL SIGN HEIGHT

3. Building Frontage.

a. The wall length and sign area shall be calculated separately for buildings with two or more frontages.

b. Projections and recesses on a building wall may not exceed 10 feet for a continuous building frontage.

H. Sign Illumination.

1. Internal Illumination. Internally illuminated signs include single- or two-color LED signs, signs constructed with pan channel letters, or indirect halo illuminated channel letters (e.g., a reverse panel channel letter sign) are on an unlit or otherwise indistinguishable background on a freestanding sign or building wall.

2. External Illumination.

a. Externally illuminated signs shall be illuminated only with steady, stationary, fully shielded light sources directed solely onto the sign without causing glare.

b. The light source for externally illuminated signs shall be arranged and shielded to substantially confine all direct light rays to the sign face and away from streets and adjacent properties as illustrated in Figure 17.72.040.H-1: External Illumination.

FIGURE 17.72.040.H-1: EXTERNAL ILLUMINATION

3. Direct Illumination.

a. Direct illumination may not be used in residential zones and is limited to letters, numbers, symbols, and accents on a marquee sign.

b. Exposed lamps must not exceed an output of 25 watts and must only have a steady light output.

4. Neon.

a. Exposed neon sign lighting is only allowed on permanent monument and wall signs in the nonresidential zones.

b. Each business is only allowed one neon sign and it must be placed on the primary frontage of the building.

c. Neon is allowed on no more than 25% of the total sign area of a permanent building mounted sign.

d. Neon signs placed in a window are exempt from the total sign area limitations for all window signs (refer to Table 17.72.050.C-12: Standards for Window Signs).

e. Neon signs must be turned off daily at the close of business or 10:00 p.m., whichever occurs last.

5. Single-Color or Two-Color LED Signs.

a. Single-color or two-color LED signs are exempt from the sign area limitations for wall signs and window signs established in Table 17.72.050.C-11: Standards for Wall Signs, and Table 17.72.050.C-12: Standards for Window Signs.

b. Any individual single-color or two-color LED sign must not exceed four square feet in area.

c. Single color or two-color LED signs are not allowed in residential zones.

d. Single-color or two-color LED signs must be turned daily at the close of business or 10:00 p.m., whichever occurs last.

I. Sign Structure and Installation.

1. The installation of signs shall be enforced and administered by the Building Inspector. All signs and sign structures must be designed to comply with the provisions of this chapter, the applicable provisions of the Building and Electrical Codes, and constructed to withstand wind loads, dead loads, and lateral forces.

a. Any angle iron, bracing, guy wires, or similar features used to support a sign shall not be visible to the extent technically feasible.

b. Where electrical service is provided to freestanding signs or landscape wall signs, the electrical service shall be placed underground and concealed. Electrical service to building-mounted signs, including conduit, housings, and wire, shall be concealed or, when necessary, painted to match the surface of the structure upon which they are mounted. A Building Permit shall be issued prior to installation of any new signs requiring electrical service.

c. All permanent signs allowed by this chapter shall be constructed of durable materials capable of withstanding continuous exposure to the elements and the conditions of a built-up environment, and shall be permanently attached to the ground, a building, or another structure by direct attachment to a rigid wall, frame, or structure.

2. Raceway, as illustrated in Figure 17.72.040.I-1: Raceway, shall only be used in building-mounted signs when access to the wall behind the sign is not feasible, or when the Zoning Administrator determines that a benefit exists to preserve a historic or architectural feature of a building. In such cases, the raceway shall not extend in width and height beyond the area of the sign and shall match the color of the building to which it is attached.

FIGURE 17.72.040.I-1: RACEWAY

3. Signs shall be designed so that all frameworks for the support of the sign are an integral part of the design of the sign or within the structure of the building to which it is attached so as to not be visible.

J. Signage Design and Materials in the DX-1 and DX-2 Zones. Appropriate sign materials for the Downtown area are dependent on the style, age, and materials used in the building. Materials may include the following:

1. Wood. Carved, etched, and painted or stained;

2. Metal. Formed, etched, cast, engraved, and painted; and

3. High-density preformed foam or similar material.

K. Sign Maintenance.

1. All signs shall be maintained by any property owner, lessor, lessee, manager, agent, or other person having lawful possession or control over a sign, building, structure, or parcel of land, in a condition or state of equivalent quality to which was approved or required by the City.

2. All signs together with their supports and appurtenances shall be maintained in good structural condition, in compliance with applicable Building and Electrical Codes, and in conformance with this chapter. Maintenance of a sign includes periodic cleaning, replacement of flickering, burned out or broken light bulbs or fixtures, repair or replacement of any faded, peeled, cracked, or otherwise damaged or broken parts of a sign, and any other activity necessary to restore the sign so that it continues to comply with the requirements and contents of the Sign Permit issued for its installation and provisions of this chapter.

3. All signs and supporting structures shall be kept in repair and in proper state of preservation. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted and clean. The immediate surrounding premises shall be maintained free of weeds and rubbish. The Zoning Administrator is authorized to order the painting, cleaning or repair of signs which become dilapidated and the cleaning of the immediate premises. Such maintenance shall be completed within 30 days of receiving written notice.

4. Landscape Maintenance. Required landscaped areas contained by a fixed border, curbed area, wall, or other perimeter structure shall receive regular repair and maintenance. Plant materials that do not survive after installation in required landscape areas are required to be replaced within three months.

5. The Building Inspector has the authority to order the repair, maintenance, or removal of any sign or sign structure that has not been maintained and is dangerous or in disrepair, or which is erected or maintained contrary to the requirements of this section.

6. Failure to maintain a sign constitutes a violation of this chapter and will be subject to enforcement action, in which case the Building Inspector may order the removal of any sign that is determined to be in disrepair or dangerous.

7. Any owner of a sign victimized by graffiti shall remove, repair, or repaint sign(s) within 10 days of the graffiti being applied or within 10 days of notification by the Director, whichever event comes first, or the sign shall be subject to removal by the City at the owner's expense.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025; Ord. 1743, 10/7/2025)

§ 17.72.050 Standards for Permanent Signs.

A. Applicability.

1. This section establishes the standards for permanent building-mounted and freestanding signs that are applicable in all zones. Standards for each allowed sign type are provided in Tables 17.72.050.C-1 through Table 17.72.050.C-12 and Tables 17.72.050.D-1 through 17.721.050.D-4, respectively. These tables are organized as permanent building-mounted and freestanding signs for each sign type. All permanent signs must comply with the standards for sign area, height, number, type, and other requirements provided in these tables.

2. A sign type not specifically included in this section may be allowed by the Director provided the sign meets the intent of the zone in which it is proposed.

Table 17.72.050.A-1: Allowed Sign Types by Zones
Sign Type	R-1, N-P	R-LM	R-M, R-H	CMU-E, CMU-K, CMU-F, CMU-A, CMU-G	DX-2, DX-3, CCMU	DX-1, DX-4, CMU-WM	RC	RC-F	IF, IG, BP	OS, PF, FSA
"•" = Permitted
Building-Mounted Signs
Awning Sign	•1	•	•	•	•	•	•
Blade Sign	•1		•	•	•	•	•
Canopy Sign			•	•	•	•	•
Directional Sign	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•
Directory Sign	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•
Hanging Sign	•1			•	•	•	•
Marquee Sign					•	•
Projecting Sign			•		•	•	•
Roof-Mounted Sign					•	•		•	•
Service Island Canopy Sign					•	•		•	•
Wall Sign	•1		•	•	•	•	•	•	•
Window Sign	•1		•		•	•	•	•	•
Freestanding Signs
Digital Billboard Sign							•	•	•	•
Directory Sign	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•
Directional Sign	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•
Freeway-Oriented Sign							•	•	•
Monument Sign			•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•

Notes:
1.	Limited to residential limited retail uses only.

B. Standards for Permanent Building-Mounted and Freestanding Signs.

1. Businesses with frontage and primary vehicle access on a through lot may consider each frontage separately when determining maximum sign area. The area for each frontage is not transferable to the opposite frontage.

2. Businesses with direct alley access are permitted an additional one square foot of sign area per linear foot of building facade facing the alley. The sign area for the alley frontage is not transferable to the main street frontage.

3. If a business frontage is only on the alley, then the total permitted sign area is allowed for the business, and all sign(s) shall be located on the alley frontage.

4. Where several businesses are developed as a unit, such as a shopping center, one sign which identifies the development is allowed. The area of this sign shall not exceed the maximum allowable area for the largest business sign permitted in the development but in no case shall it exceed 100 square feet. Where the development identification is placed on a monument sign, subsection D.6, Monument Signs, is applicable.

5. The maximum total area for all building-mounted and freestanding signs is established in Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs, including additional regulations for sign area, height, and setback from a property line.

6. The area of all building-mounted signs is included in the maximum total sign area, except when specifically exempted.

7. All permanent building-mounted and freestanding signs must comply with the corresponding sign type standards provided in Tables 17.72.050.C-1 to 17.72.050.D-4.

Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs
Zone(s)	Max. Sign Height, Building-Mounted	Max. Sign Height, Freestanding	Total Sign Area per Business or Development	Min. Distance from Property Line
R-1, N-P, R-LM	10 ft	5 ft	4 sf per residential business; 24 sf per residential limited retail use1	R-1, R-LM: 15 ft; N-P: 5 ft; Residential limited retail use: 0 ft
R-M, R-H	20 ft	8 ft	20 sf for residential uses; 24 sf per residential limited retail use	5 ft
CMU-E, CMU-K, CMU-F, CMU-A, CMU-G, DX-2, DX-3	30 ft	8 ft	2.0 sf per linear foot of building frontage; not to exceed 175 sf	CMU zones: 5 ft; DX-2 and DX-3:0 ft
DX-1, DX-4, CMU-WM	30 ft	8 ft	2.0 sf per linear foot of building frontage; not to exceed 175 sf	0 ft
CCMU	20 ft	8 ft	1.5 sf per linear foot of building frontage; not to exceed 125 sf	5 ft
RC, RC-F	40 ft	8 ft plus 1 ft for every 5 ft of setback from property line, not to exceed 15 ft2	2.0 sf per linear foot of street frontage; not to exceed 200 sf	5 ft
IF, IG, BP	40 ft	8 ft plus 1 ft for every 5 ft of setback from property line, not to exceed 15 ft	2.0 sf per linear foot of street frontage; not to exceed 200 sf	10 ft
OS, PF	20 ft	8 ft	20 sf1	OS and PF: 25 ft; FSA: 15 ft

Notes:
1.	The Zoning Administrator may grant by Zoning Administrator Permit an increase in the maximum total sign area for all permanent signs in these zones for public parks and recreation facilities, public schools, governmental facilities, public cultural facilities, and nonprofit hospitals. See § 17.100.090, Zoning Administrator Permit.
2.	Refer to § 17.72.050.D.5, Freeway-Oriented Signs.

C. Standards for Permanent Building-Mounted Signs.

1. Awning Sign. Awning signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-1: Standards for Awning Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Sign area is max. 50% of the area of the end panel and max. 20% of the area of the front (street-facing) panel of the awning or valance. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Mounting Height	Max. 8 ft from the bottom of the awning to the nearest grade or sidewalk. Max. 20 ft.
Sign Placement	Must only be placed above the doors and windows of the ground floor. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit.
Valance Height	Max. 9 in.
Horizontal Distance from Back of Curb	Min. 2 ft.
Illumination	Nonilluminated or illumination allowed under the awning.

2. Blade Sign. Blade signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-2: Standards for Blade Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 8 sf. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Mounting Height	Min. 8 ft from the bottom of the sign to the nearest grade or sidewalk. Must be mounted perpendicular to the building face or at the corner of the building.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per frontage, except on a corner where 2 signs are allowed, i.e., 1 per frontage.
Sign Placement	Sign must not extend beyond the edge of the structure on which it is located if mounted below the walkway or overhead structure. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit.
Horizontal Distance from Back of Curb	Min. 2 ft.
Illumination	Nonilluminated or internal illumination.

3. Canopy Signs. Canopy signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-3: Standards for Canopy Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 1 sf per 1 If of canopy width.
Mounting Height	Min. 8 ft from the bottom of the canopy to the nearest grade or sidewalk. Max. 20 ft. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Sign Placement	Must be placed above the doors and windows of the ground floor of a building. Sign area is max. 60% of the store width or tenant space per business when canopy is placed on multiple store fronts. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit.
Horizontal Distance from Back of Curb	Min. 2 ft.
Illumination	Nonilluminated or internal illumination.
Other Requirements	Max. height of sign letters is 2 ft measured from the top of the canopy.

4. Directional Signs (Building-Mounted). Directional signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-4: Standards for Directional Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 3 sf. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all building-mounted signs.
Mounting Height	Max. 8 ft.
Sign Placement	Max. 1 per driveway entrance.
Illumination	Nonilluminated or external illumination.

5. Directory Signs (Building-Mounted). Directory signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-5: Standards for Directory Signs (Building-Mounted)
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 1 sf per tenant space; max. 10 sf total sign area. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all building-mounted signs.
Mounting Height	Max. 8 ft from nearest grade.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per primary building entrance.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

6. Hanging Signs. Hanging signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-6: Standards for Hanging Signs
Standards	Requirement
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 6 sf in area on each sign face. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Mounting Height	Max. 8 feet from the ground level (as measured directly under the sign).
Sign Placement	Hanging signs shall not be permitted closer than 20 ft from each other. May not extend past the structure to which they are mounted. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit. Awnings, canopies, and marquees may have a hanging sign suspended beneath.
Horizontal Distance from Back of Curb	Min. 2 ft.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 sign per business per street face.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

7. Marquee Signs. Marquee signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-7: Standards for Marquee Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 2 sf per 1 If of building frontage. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs). Max. 75% of the total sign area is allowed for the changeable copy.
Mounting Height	Min. 12 ft from the bottom of the marquee to the nearest grade or sidewalk.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per business.
Sign Placement	May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit.
Horizontal Distance from Back of Curb	Min. 2 ft.
Illumination	Direct Illumination or internal illumination.
Other Requirements	No projecting sign (Table 17.72.050.C-8: Standards for Projecting Signs) shall be permitted when signage is placed directly on a marquee.

8. Projecting Signs. Projecting signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-8: Standards for Projecting Signs
Standards	All Other Zones	DX-2, DX-3, CCMU	DX-1, DX-4, CMU-WM
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 36 sf.	Max. 24 sf.
	Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Mounting Height	Min. 8 ft from the bottom of the sign to the nearest grade or sidewalk.
Sign Placement	Projecting signs shall not be permitted closer than 20 ft from each other. May project into public right-of-way (but not public alleys) with approval of an Encroachment Permit. May not extend vertically above the second floor window sill or when there is no second floor, may not extend above the parapet, eaves, or roof line. Must be placed so that the sign causes no harm to street trees.
Horizontal Distance from Back of the Curb	Signs may not project within 2 ft of the curb line. Max. 6 ft from the building wall to the outer edge of the sign.
Number of Signs	1 per business when neither a monument sign nor a roof sign is present in the development.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

9. Roof-Mounted Signs. Roof-mounted signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-9: Standards for Roof-Mounted Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	As provided in Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Sign Height	As provided in Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per business.
Sign Placement	Roof-mounted signs shall be placed below the roof peak and must comply with the maximum height allowed for the zone. Hip roof: Only placed on the lowest 1/3 of the slope of the roof. Mansard roof: Only placed on the lowest 1/2 of the slope of the roof. Sign lettering shall have a minimum depth of 6 in to convey a three-dimensional appearance. Signs for individual tenants in multi-tenant centers shall be centered above the tenant space and only mounted on a mansard roof.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements	The bottom of roof signs shall be mounted flush with the surface of the roof and shall not interrupt roof lines or other major architectural features.

10. Service Island Canopy Signs. Service island canopy signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-10: Standard for Service Island Canopy Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 60 sf for the total area of all signs on the canopy. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Number of Signs	Signs may only be displayed on max. 3 canopy facades.
Illumination	Nonilluminated or internal illumination.

11. Wall Signs. Wall signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-11: Standards for Wall Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	As provided in Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs. Included in the total allowable sign area for all building-mounted signs (see Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs).
Number of Signs	Unlimited, provided the maximum area allowed for wall signs is not exceeded.
Sign Placement	Refer to the illustration below for applicable standards. Wall signs shall be placed to establish a facade rhythm, scale, and proportion between buildings. The sign's length shall not exceed the width of the framed portion of the storefront and shall not exceed 40% of the building facade. Wall signs shall not face an adjacent residential zone.
Sign Depth	Max. depth 12 inches measured from the wall on which the sign is placed.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Special Provisions	Requirements
Painted Wall Signs	Painted wall signs are allowed on any exterior building wall of an individual tenant space or building. Painted wall signs must be professionally painted. The allowable area for painted wall signs will be increased by 10% over the normal allowable sign dimensions for the zone.
Changeable Copy Signs	Max. sign area 30% of the total allowable sign area for the building

12. Window Signs. Window signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.C-12: Standards for Window Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Permanent window signs shall be limited to 20% of the ground floor frontage window area occupied by a given business. The combined area of temporary and permanent window signs must not exceed 40% of the area of the window on which they are displayed. Neon or single-color or two-color LED signs are excluded from the total allowed sign area for all building-mounted signs. Refer to § 17.72.040.H.4, Neon; and § 17.72.040.H.5, Single-Color or Two-Color LED Signs. Adhesive vinyl, gild-leaf, or screen printing is preferred over hand-painted window signs.
Sign Placement	Must be mounted or displayed on the interior of the window. If the business is on the first floor, signs shall not be placed above the upper window frame or the second floor. If the business is conducted above the first floor, signs shall not be placed above the max. height allowed in the zone or above the window frame of the third floor.
Illumination	Nonilluminated. Neon or single- or two-color LED signs are allowed.

D. Standards for Permanent Freestanding Signs.

1. Standards for each allowed permanent freestanding sign type are provided in tables with a supporting illustration of each sign type. All permanent signs must comply with the standards for sign area, height, number, type, and other requirements provided in these tables.

2. Digital Billboard Signs. Digital billboard signs are permitted only as billboard relocations or as conversions of an existing billboard. Digital billboard signs must meet all location and development standards established in this section. Digital billboard signs shall be subject to approval of a Conditional Use Permit (see § 17.100.100, Conditional Use Permit), site plan, and Design Review by the Planning Commission, as set forth in Chapter 17.100, Planning Permits and Approvals.

a. Location.

i. Digital billboard signs are only permitted along two specific segments of the Interstate 5 (I-5) corridor as described below:

(A) Segment One. This segment begins where the City boundary bisects the I-5 corridor to the north and runs south along I-5 to the East Main Street freeway underpass, excluding the Section of frontage on the north side of I-5 between the East Beamer Street underpass and the East Kentucky Avenue overpass. A maximum of two digital billboard signs are permitted within this segment. The signs may be located on the same side of the freeway or one on each side of the freeway.

(B) Segment Two. This segment begins at County Road 102 and runs east along I-5 to the eastern boundary of the City. A maximum of one digital billboard is permitted within this segment.

ii. Digital billboard signs shall be located within 500 feet of the freeway right-of-way. No digital billboard sign shall be located within 2,500 feet of another digital billboard sign on the same or opposite side of the freeway and no closer than 250 feet to any other freeway-oriented sign over 30 feet in height on the same side of the freeway.

iii. The location of digital billboard signs shall be verified by the City Engineer to ensure no conflict exists between the location of the proposed sign and the Interstate 5/State Route 113 direct connect interchange project as identified in the CalTrans Project Report dated April 6, 2000, or as otherwise amended or updated by CalTrans or the City. Updates shall include the development of project plans. When reviewing for conflicts, the City Engineer will review for physical and visual conflicts.

iv. Proximity to Residential Uses. No digital billboard signs shall be located between East Main Street and East Beamer Street or within 1,200 feet of any existing residential property in existence at the time of adoption of the digital billboard signs standards, unless it can be demonstrated by the applicant, that the proposed sign installation cannot be viewed from the residential property. A "balloon test" (or similar) may be required and shall be paid for by the applicant to determine visual impacts of a proposed digital billboard sign and to demonstrate that the proposed sign cannot be viewed from a residential property.

b. Standards. Any new digital billboard sign or a legally existing billboard refurbished to become a digital billboard sign shall be subject to the development standards below.

i. Number of Faces. A digital billboard sign may consist of no more than two digital display areas, each positioned to be visible only by opposing directions of traffic. Double-faced signs shall not have an interior angle between the face of the panels greater than 20°, unless a visibility study is provided showing that a greater angle is necessary to achieve reasonable sign visibility, up to a maximum of 45°.

ii. Height. Heights of digital billboard signs shall be established relative to topography and setting to provide the best balance between the sign's purpose of effectively communicating a visual message, the setting (including topography and surrounding architecture), and freeway traffic safety. However, in no case shall the digital billboard sign (including structure) exceed a maximum height of 68 feet as measured from the finished grade of the center line of the nearest freeway to the top of the digital billboard sign face or structure, as applicable. Applicants shall provide to the City supporting documentation from a licensed engineer or surveyor demonstrating compliance with this provision.

iii. Area. The maximum area of each digital display area shall not exceed 672 square feet per sign face.

iv. No more than one digital billboard sign and one freeway-oriented sign each over 30 feet in height shall be permitted on a single parcel or multiple parcels developed as a single retail, office, or industrial center. One sign shall not directly or substantially impede the view of another sign for any prolonged length of travel time of a passing driver on Interstate 5.

v. Illumination. Digital billboard signs must be limited in brightness to a maximum lighting intensity of 0.3 candela (i.e., foot-candles) over ambient light levels, as measured using a foot-candle meter at 250 feet from the sign face.

(A) Each digital display area must have a light sensing device that will adjust the brightness of the sign as ambient light conditions change throughout the day.

(B) Digital billboard signs must create minimal glare, maintain contrast between the sign face and the surrounding area, have minimal impact on driver distraction, and create minimal light trespass into residential areas.

(C) The applicant must demonstrate through field testing compliance with a 0.3 candela increase, or less, over ambient light at a distance of 250 feet during nighttime conditions upon initial start-up, again at six months of operation and at the request of the City for the life of the sign.

(D) The applicant must fund field testing by a qualified independent contractor or City staff trained in the use of a handheld photometer to demonstrate continued compliance. If increases in ambient light are found to be above the 0.3 candela level, the dimming level shall be adjusted until this level can be demonstrated. This must be completed and demonstrated through follow-up field testing within 24 hours or the billboard shall not be operated until the lighting levels can be brought into compliance.

vi. Pole Cladding. High-quality decorative pole covering is required for newly constructed digital billboard signs as well as any existing nondigital billboard that is converted to a digital billboard sign.

vii. Message Display. Digital billboard signs shall display static messages only, and shall not have animation, movement, or the appearance or optical illusion of movement in or on any part of the sign structure, design, or pictorial segment of the sign, except that static images may be displayed for a minimum of eight seconds with a transition or blank screen time no longer than one second in duration. No static message shall include flashing or scintillating lighting, or varying light intensity. Digital billboard signs shall be operated with systems and monitoring in place to either turn the display off or show a "full black" image on the display in the event of a malfunction.

viii. Community Messaging. The City shall be provided with access to a minimum of five percent of the total available display time to allow the City to present messages of community interest. This access shall also include access for other appropriate agencies for the purpose of displaying public safety messages such as "Amber Alert" messages and emergency-disaster communications. The City shall retain sole discretion regarding the content and prioritization of messages displayed on the City's behalf, subject to specific standards of individual sign companies for displayed material.

ix. Traffic Safety. The digital billboard sign shall not create a visibility hazard to traffic on adjacent streets, freeways, or parking areas. The sign shall not reduce required on-site parking availability and shall not interfere with on-site vehicular circulation.

x. Future Technologies. There may be alternate, preferred, or superior technology available in the future to illuminate digital freeway signs. These alternate technologies may be incorporated into existing legally permitted digital freeway signs in the future without additional permissions from the Planning Commission or City Council provided:

(A) The required maximum brightness standards are met; and

(B) No substantial exterior physical change to the digital display area will occur. The owner shall be responsible for obtaining any required ministerial permits for technology improvements as required by applicable code standards. The City shall expedite any required approvals for technology that is superior in energy efficiency over previous generations or types.

xi. Quality and Maintenance Plan. The applicant shall demonstrate that the proposed digital billboard sign provides high resolution, clear graphic display, and consistent reliability and durability. The applicant must establish a quality and maintenance plan to ensure implementation of all above-listed development standards and to assure the proper maintenance and repair of the digital billboard sign as needed.

c. Billboard Removal. For every one square foot of digital message display area installed, the applicant must permanently remove at least two square feet of existing legal conforming or nonconforming billboard display area within the City limits prior to operation of the digital billboard sign. An existing billboard display area being converted to a digital billboard sign may count toward the required permanent removals.

d. Operating Agreement. The City and applicant shall enter into an operating agreement, subject to City Council approval, in conjunction with the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit (see § 17.100.100, Conditional Use Permit) for a digital billboard sign. The City and applicant may use the operating agreement, on a case-by-case basis, to deviate from the development standards in subsection D.2, Digital Billboard Signs, or reduce the required billboard removals under subsection D.2.C, Digital Billboard Signs. The City Council will only approve an operating agreement if it determines that the operating agreement achieves community benefits that are equivalent or greater to those that would be achieved through strict compliance with subsection D.2, Digital Billboard Signs. If deviation from the foregoing development standards is requested, the City Council shall also serve as the final review and approval authority for the Conditional Use Permit (see § 17.100.100, Conditional Use Permit) and Development Review application.

e. Compliance with Applicable Laws and Regulations. The owner of the digital billboard sign shall comply with all applicable Federal, State, or local laws, including the Highway Beautification Act of 1965 (23 U.S.C. § 131), the Outdoor Advertising Act (California Business and Professions Code § 5200 et seq.), and this section, when constructing, operating, improving, maintaining, repairing, and removing the digital billboard.

3. Directional Signs (Freestanding). Directional signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.D-1: Standards for Directional Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	2-sided allowed; max. 3 sf per sign face. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all freestanding signs.
Sign Height	Max. 4 ft.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per driveway entrance.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

4. Directory Signs (Freestanding). Directory signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.D-2: Standards for Directory Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 10 sf; max. 1 sf per tenant space. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all freestanding signs.
Sign Height	Max. 8 ft from nearest grade.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per building. A directory sign that displays multiple individual tenants, nameplates, etc., shall be considered one sign.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

5. Freeway-Oriented Signs. Freeway-oriented signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.D-3: Standards for Freeway-Oriented Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "ft" = feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	Max. 200 sf
Sign Height1	Max. height 60 ft. Elements to enhance the design of a sign structure may extend above the sign to a max. 20% of the sign's allowed height or 12 inches, whichever is greater.
Base Width	The sign base cannot be individual poles and must be a single column. The base must be at least 60% of the width of the sign and tie into the overall sign design and materials.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 freeway-oriented sign in areas adjoining interchanges or for groups of adjoining parcels. 1 additional freeway-oriented sign is allowed for a single parcel or a group of parcels greater than 20 acres provided the 2 signs are separated by min. 300 lf.
Sign Placement	Only located along a site frontage facing a freeway and within 500 lf of a freeway interchange.
Illumination	Nonilluminated or internal illumination.
Special Provisions	Requirements
Sign Design	The major architectural elements or details of the primary building(s) shall be integrated into the design of the freeway oriented sign.
Sign Panels for Vacant Businesses	The sign panel on a freeway-oriented sign for a business that goes out of business shall be replaced within 30 days with a blank sign panel. Also refer to § 17.72.080, Enforcement.
Changeable Copy Signs and Electronic Message Centers	Changeable copy and digital/electronic messages are not permitted.

Notes:

1.

The overall height of freeway signs and their support structures shall be determined on a case-by-case basis utilizing a line of site study and visibility modeling analysis techniques which shall include an evaluation of the presence of visual obstructions, the number of anchor tenants proposed, etc. The Planning Commission will review the analysis presented by the applicant and render a judgment as to whether the proposed sign height and area is appropriate. Signs shall be no higher than necessary for effective visibility.

6. Monument Signs. Monument signs must comply with the standards provided in the table below.

Table 17.72.050.D-4: Standards for Monument Signs
Standards	Requirements
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
Sign Area	As provided in Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs.
Sign Height	As provided in Table 17.72.050.B-1: Standards for All Permanent Signs. Elements to enhance the design of a sign structure may extend above the sign to a max. 20% of the sign's allowed height or 12 in, whichever is greater.
Sign Base Standards	The sign base must be at least 60% of the width of the sign. The base shall be min. 12 in. in height from finish grade. The sign based shall be constructed of solid permanent materials such as concrete block, stone, brick, metal, stucco, or similar veneer extending the full height of the sign or to the base.
Number of Signs	Only one monument sign is allowed per building per frontage.
Sign Placement	Only located along a site frontage facing a public street.
Illumination	Nonilluminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Special Provisions	Requirements
Changeable Copy Signs	Max. sign area 40% of the total allowable sign area.
Other Requirement	Signs shall integrate major architectural elements or details of the primary building(s) into the design of the support structure for the monument sign. Signage must be compatible with the building and site design relative to colors, materials, and placement and will respect established architectural and/or historical character as appropriate.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025; Ord. 1743, 10/7/2025)

§ 17.72.060 Standards for Temporary Signs.

A. Purpose. The City Council finds that the proliferation of temporary signs is a distraction to the traveling public and creates aesthetic blight and litter that threatens the public's health, safety, and welfare. In addition to the purpose provisions of § 17.72.010, Purpose, these regulations ensure that temporary signs do not create a distraction to the traveling public by eliminating the aesthetic blight and litter caused by temporary signs. These standards and requirements ensure that temporary signs do not create aesthetic clutter or a distraction to the traveling public.

B. General to All Temporary Signs. Temporary signs are allowed only in compliance with the provisions of this section.

1. Information Required for Display. All temporary signs are required to display the name and address of the entity placing the sign and the date the sign was erected.

2. Permits. No permits are required for the installation and placement of any temporary signs.

3. Not Included in Permanent Sign Allowances. Temporary signs are not counted toward the maximum total sign area established in § 17.72.050, Standards for Permanent Signs.

4. General Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions.

a. Location Standards. Temporary signs must be placed in compliance with § 17.72.040.B, Location Standards, unless specifically exempted by this section.

b. Period of Use. May not be displayed for a period of time exceeding 30 days in a calendar year.

c. Display Standards. Temporary signs must be placed in compliance with § 17.72.040.D, Display Standards, unless specifically exempted by this section.

d. Design and Construction. Temporary signs must be of sufficient weight and durability to withstand wind gusts, storms, etc., and must be professionally crafted.

C. Additional Standards for Temporary Signs.

1. Temporary signs are allowed in compliance with provisions in Table 17.72.060.C-1: Standards for Temporary Signs.

Table 17.72.060.C-1: Standards for Temporary Signs
Standard	Requirement
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
All Residential and Public and Open Space Zones
Total Area of all Temporary Signs at Any One Time	Max. 16 sf.1
Number of Signs	Unlimited except that the total sign area must not exceed 16 sf.
All Downtown and Mixed-Use Zones
Total Area of All Temporary Signs at Any One Time	Max. 32 sf per business, with a total of max. 72 sf per lot.
Number of Signs	Unlimited except that the total sign area of all temporary signs must not exceed 32 sf per business.
All Commercial and Employment Zones
Total Area of All Temporary Signs at Any One Time	Max. 30% of the building frontage.
Number of Signs	Unlimited except that the total sign area of all temporary signs (excludes the area of temporary window signs) shall not exceed 30% of the building frontage.

Notes:
1.	The Zoning Administrator may grant, by Zoning Administrator Permit, an increase in the maximum total sign area for all temporary signs in these zones for public parks and recreation facilities, governmental facilities, public cultural facilities, and nonprofit hospitals. See § 17.100.090, Zoning Administrator Permit.

2. Standards for Specific Temporary Signs. Temporary signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 17.72.060.C-2: Standards for Specific Temporary Signs.

Table 17.72.060.C-2: Standards for Specific Temporary Signs
Temporary Sign Type1	Standards			Other Requirements
	Height (Max.)	Width (Max.)	Area (Max.)
"sf" = square feet; "lf" = linear feet
A-Frame Sign	4 ft	3 ft	6 sf	Only allowed in the Downtown zones. Max. 1 A-frame sign per business. Must be located within 15 ft of the building in which the business is located. May be located on a sidewalk, provided a minimum width of at least 4 ft allows for unimpeded pedestrian movement. Prohibited in residential zones. Only permitted during regular business hours. Must be professionally crafted and not constructed of molded vinyl or plastic.
Wall Banner	25 ft to top of banner	—	32 sf	Prohibited in residential zones. Must be mounted on a building wall or on T-posts or stakes installed < 6 in from a wall on which the wall banner would be hung.
Window Sign	—	—	See Note 2	Must be placed no higher than first story windows. Inside mounting required. Not included in the total sign area for all temporary signs.
Yard Sign Type	—	4 ft	3 sf	All yard signs must be installed securely in the ground.
Yard Sign Type 2	—	6 ft	4 sf
Yard Sign Type 3	—	6 ft	32 sf

Notes:
1.	Other temporary sign types may be allowed (e.g., fuel pump topper signs, wrap-around waste receptacles, or balloon bobbers), provided the maximum area limitation for all temporary signs is not exceeded.
2.	The area of temporary and permanent window signs combined (including signs constructed of perforated vinyl or painted on the window) is established in Table 17.72.050.C-12: Standards for Window Signs.
3.	All temporary signs associated with a model sales office for new subdivision or multifamily residential developments for sale or rent require approval of a Zoning Administrator Permit approval (see § 17.100.090, Zoning Administrator Permit).

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025; Ord. 1743, 10/7/2025)

§ 17.72.070 Standards for Nonconforming Signs.

Section 17.80.090, Nonconforming Signs, provides the standards and regulations for nonconforming signs.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025)

§ 17.72.080 Enforcement.

A. Inspection. Construction of all signs, and their attachment, is governed by the regulations of the Uniform Building Code, the Uniform Sign Code, and this chapter, as adopted by the City of Woodland and shall be inspected and approved by the Building Inspector.

B. Sign Removal.

1. Unlawful Signs. The Zoning Administrator may order the removal of any sign erected, altered, or maintained in violation of this chapter, the Uniform Building Code, or the Uniform Sign Code, in which case 30-day written notice shall be provided to the owner of the building, structure, or lot on which the sign is located requiring the removal of the sign or to bring it into compliance.

2. Dangerous or Defective Signs. The Zoning Administrator may order the immediate removal of a sign without notification if, in his or her opinion, the condition of the sign presents an immediate threat to the safety of the public.

3. Abandoned Signs. Any sign which no longer advertises the original business conducted, product sold, or activity conducted shall be deemed to have been abandoned. The Zoning Administrator shall give 30 days' written notice to the owner of the building, structure, or lot on which the sign is located to remove the sign.

C. The provisions in this chapter shall be enforced by the City of Woodland Police Department, when applicable.

D. Any Conditional Use Permit (see § 17.100.100, Conditional Use Permit) or Variance (see § 17.100.120, Variance) granted for a sign or signs shall become void if the sign is altered or relocated in any way which makes the sign in violation of the requirements of this chapter.

E. Penalties. Failure to comply with the provisions of this chapter shall subject the owner to the penalties provided for in Chapter 17.128, Enforcement, of this Zoning Code.

F. Appeals. Any person aggrieved by any decision or order of the Zoning Administrator may appeal to the Planning Commission unless such denial is based on violations of the Uniform Building Code, the Uniform Sign Code, or the National Electrical Code. Denial for these reasons must be appealed to the Board of Building Appeals. Appeals shall be in writing and must be filed in the with the Zoning Administrator 10 days of the date of the decision or order which is being appealed. See § 17.96.160, Appeals.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025)

§ 17.72.090 Severability.

If any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of the Chapter is held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect, impair, or invalidate any other section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision. The invalidation of the application of any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this chapter to a particular property or structure, or any particular properties or structures, by any court of competent jurisdiction shall not affect the application of such section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion or provision to any other property or structure not specifically included in said invalidation.

(Ord. 1722, 6/18/2024; Ord. 1733, 2/4/2025)