This article regulates signage in private property. This title shall be known and may be cited as "the Sign Ordinance of the City of Turlock" and is adopted pursuant to California Government Code Sections 65850(b), 38774, and 38775, California Business and Professions Code Section 5200 et seq., California Civil Code Section 713, and California Penal Code Section 556 et seq. and other applicable State laws.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
This article regulates signs, as defined herein, when they are on private property or otherwise project from private property over or into City property. The provisions of this article do not regulate the message content of the signs ("sign copy") regardless of whether the message content is commercial or noncommercial.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
The City Council adopts the ordinance codified in this article based upon the following findings:
(a) 
Signs are an essential element of any community. As such, their location, number, size, design, and relationship to each other and to other structures have a significant influence upon a community's appearance and welfare, and a resultant effect upon a viewer's perception of the community. Signs serve a useful purpose in communicating messages, whether commercial, noncommercial, or merely informational.
(b) 
Where signs are not properly regulated and maintained, they contribute to visual clutter, confusion, aesthetic blight, and create an unpleasant impression. They may cause traffic hazards and impede rather than enhance commerce and communication. In such situations, signs may fail to achieve their original objective of communication. Failure to appropriately regulate signs adversely affects the public health, safety and welfare.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
The purpose of this article is to create a comprehensive and balanced system of sign regulation which will facilitate communication and simultaneously serve various public interests, including but not limited to safety and community aesthetics. It is the intent of this title to authorize the use of signs which:
(a) 
Promote commerce.
(b) 
Protect freedom of speech.
(c) 
Provide for fair and equal treatment of sign users.
(d) 
Encourage a desirable urban character consistent with the General Plan.
(e) 
Preserve and improve the appearance of the City as a place to live, work and visit.
(f) 
Do not interfere with vehicular traffic and the safety of drivers, passengers and pedestrians.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
If any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion or provision of the ordinance codified in this article is held invalid or, unconstitutional, or unenforceable, by any court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not affect, impair, or invalidate any other section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of said ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid portion. In adopting said ordinance, the City Council affirmatively declares that it would have approved and adopted said ordinance even without any portion which may be held invalid or unenforceable.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
Subject to the property owner's consent, a noncommercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any commercial message or any other noncommercial message; provided, that the sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this article. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message. This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a property, nor does it affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Violation. It shall be unlawful for any person to erect, construct, maintain, place or display a sign unless the sign conforms to the provisions of this article, unless the sign is exempt from the permit requirement pursuant to TMC 9-2-514 (Exempt signs). Prohibited signs shall include, but are not restricted to, the categories of signs set forth in TMC 9-2-513 (Prohibited signs).
(b) 
Enforcement. The requirements of this article shall be enforced under the provisions of Article 11 of Chapter 9-5 TMC (Enforcement), Chapter 2-11 TMC (Administrative Citations), and/or Chapter 5-5 TMC (Nuisance Abatement), as determined by the Director.
(c) 
Regulatory interpretations. All regulatory and administrative interpretations of this article are to be exercised in light of the City's message neutrality and message substitution policies. Where a particular type of sign is proposed in a permit application, and the type is neither expressly allowed nor prohibited by this title, or whenever a sign does not qualify as a "structure" as defined in the zoning regulations or building codes, then the director shall approve, conditionally approve or disapprove the application based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated by this article, in light of the policies stated in this article.
(d) 
Distinction between on- and off-site signs. Within this article, the distinction between on-site (or on-premises or point-of-sale) and off-site (or off-premises or non-point-of-sale) applies only to commercial messages. All signs permitted by this article are on-site signs unless specifically described as off-site signs.
(e) 
Billboard and electronic message board policy. New billboards or electronic message boards are prohibited. The City completely prohibits the construction, erection or use of any billboards or electronic message boards, other than those which legally exist in the City at the time the ordinance codified in this article is enacted. No permit shall be issued for any billboard or electronic message board which violates this policy, and the City will take immediate enforcement or abatement action against any billboard or electronic message board constructed or maintained in violation of this policy. In adopting this provision, the City Council affirmatively declares that it would have adopted this policy even if it were the only provision in this article. The City Council intends for this policy to be severable and separately enforceable even if other provision(s) of this article may be declared, by a court of competent jurisdiction, to be unconstitutional, invalid or unenforceable.
(f) 
Noncommunicative aspects. All rules and regulations concerning the noncommunicative aspects of signs, including, but not limited to, location, size, height, illumination, setback, scale, spacing, materials, orientation and mass of the structure, stand enforceable independently of any permit or approval process.
(g) 
Discretionary approvals. Whenever any sign permit, variance, exception, or other sign-related decision is made by any exercise of official discretion, such discretion shall be exercised only as to the noncommunicative aspects of the sign, including, but not limited to, location, size, height, illumination, setback, scale, spacing, materials, orientation and mass of the structure.
(h) 
Legal nature of sign rights. As to all signs attached to real property, the signage rights, duties and obligations arising from this article attach to and travel with the land or other property on which a sign is mounted or displayed. This provision does not modify or affect the law of fixtures, sign-related provisions in private leases regarding signs (so long as they are not in conflict with this title or other law), or the ownership of sign structures. This provision does not apply to handheld signs or other images which are aspects of personal appearance.
(i) 
Property owner's consent required. No sign may be placed on private property without the consent of the property owner or persons holding the present right of possession and control.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
The inclusion of diagrams in this article is for illustrative purposes only. Where a diagram conflicts with text, the text shall control.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
The words used in this title shall be construed to have the meanings ascribed to them in this section.
"A-frame sign"
shall mean a portable sign capable of standing without support or attachment with two (2) sides that rest against each other and are supported only by the feet of the two (2) boards that comprise the sign structure.
"Abandoned sign"
shall mean a sign or sign structure advertising or identifying an activity, business, product, or service that has not existed for a period of six (6) months or longer.
"Awning sign"
shall mean a sign painted or otherwise affixed permanently to the exterior surface of an awning. For purposes of this chapter, "awning" means shelter projecting from and supported by the exterior wall of a building and constructed of a rigid frame cover by a flexible skin (e.g., fabric, synthetic material or thin sheet metal).
"Banner"
shall mean a temporary sign constructed of a strip of cloth, paper, plastic, or other flexible material upon which copy is written and which is supported between poles or sticks or fastened to buildings or other structures.
"Billboard"
shall mean a permanently installed sign which: (1) is used, in whole or in part, for the display of off-site commercial messages; (2) constitutes a principal, separate or secondary use, as opposed to an accessory, ancillary or appurtenant use, of the parcel on which it is located; (3) used as advertising for hire or general advertising (i.e., on which display space is made available to parties other than the owner of the sign or the property on which it is placed); or (4) leases or rents space for off-site outdoor advertising.
"Building complex"
shall mean a development of more than one (1) commercial or industrial businesses or services, within a building or group of buildings on one (1) or more parcels regardless of sequence of build-out, operating in a joint manner and sharing common parking, access, and/or vehicle or pedestrian circulation amenities.
"Building facade"
shall mean the exterior elevation of a single side of a building. When a building facade is irregular in shape, the number, extent and measurement of the building facade(s) shall be determined by the Director.
"Building frontage"
shall mean a building facade, or portion of a building facade, occupied by an establishment facing onto a public highway, street or road, or public parking area. A building frontage facing onto the back or side of the space occupied by the establishment is not a building frontage unless the back or side faces onto a public highway, street, or road. The length of the building frontage is the linear distance of the building or tenant space facing onto a public highway, street or road, or public parking area.
"Cabinet sign" or "can sign"
shall mean a sign where the text and/or logo symbols are mounted on a box-like frame or external structure that encloses the various functional components of the sign, whether electrical or dimensional. The back and/or sides of the display cabinet is sometimes referred to as a "drum" or "filler."
"Changeable copy"
shall mean a sign designed to allow the changing of copy through manual, mechanical or electrical means more than eight (8) times per day.
"City"
shall mean the City of Turlock.
"City Council" or "Council"
shall mean the City Council of the City of Turlock.
"Clear vision triangle"
shall mean the area created by drawing an imaginary line between points a specified distance back from where the curb lines of the intersection quadrant meet. In certain cases, the Director may use the intersection of property lines to determine the clear vision triangle. The definition and specified distances required are established in the City of Turlock Standard Specifications and Drawings, and shall be determined by the City Engineer.
"Commercial message"
shall mean a message that relates primarily to economic interests such as the exchange of goods and services, including, but not limited to, letters, pictures, symbols, logos, artwork, emblems, or other images.
"Comprehensive sign program"
shall mean a coordinated signage program providing an inventory of the allowed signs for a multi-tenant center, such as a shopping center, building complex, or "sign district."
"Directional sign"
shall mean an on-site sign designed to guide vehicular or pedestrian traffic that does not promote or advertise a business, property or product.
"Director"
shall mean the Development Services Director or the Director's successor or designee(s).
"Directory sign"
shall mean a sign listing the names and locations of occupants or activities conducted within a building or group of buildings.
"Drive-through lane board"
shall mean a sign installed in the drive-through lane of a drive-through facility and oriented to be seen primarily by customers.
"Electronic message board" or "electronic message center"
shall mean a permanently installed sign capable of displaying words, symbols, figures, or images that can be electronically or mechanically changed by remote or automatic means.
"Establishment"
shall mean any nonresidential use of land an individual business, organization, corporation, or collective operating under a single name or title, engaged in commercial, industrial, or professional activities. An establishment can be a for-profit entity or a nonprofit organization that operates to fulfill a charitable mission.
"Fascia"
shall mean the vertical area attached to the eave below the roof slope or roof line. The "fascia" is not part of the building wall.
"Flag"
shall mean a piece of cloth or canvas, usually rectangular or triangular in shape, bearing symbolic images.
"Freestanding"
shall mean a sign which is supported by one (1) or more columns, uprights, or is braced in or upon the ground and is not attached to any building.
"Freeway"
shall mean State Highway 99, or other highway designated as "freeway" by State or Federal law.
"Grade"
shall mean the elevation of the finished surface of the ground or paving.
"Illuminated sign"
shall mean a sign made readable by a source of light, including internally and/or externally lighted signs, and reflective, glowing, or radiating signs.
"Individual letters"
shall mean the integration of signage into a building wall or other architectural feature where the letters are individually mounted on a raceway or directly to the wall.
"Inflatable sign"
shall mean any object enlarged or inflated which floats, is tethered in the air, is activated by air or moving gas, or is located on the ground or on a building with or without copy or other graphic.
"Informational sign"
shall mean a sign erected for the safety or convenience of the public including but not limited to "Restrooms," "Telephone," "Danger," "No Smoking," "Manager's Office," and other signs of similar nature that do not promote or advertise a business, property or product or relate to debate on topics of public concern.
"Island canopy sign"
shall mean a sign permanently affixed to a canopy or other rigid roof structure directly above a fuel pump island of an automobile service station.
"Lineal frontage"
shall mean the total length of all building frontages for an establishment facing onto a public highway, street or road.
"Marquee sign"
shall mean a sign consisting of lettering and/or imagery affixed to a marquee canopy, sometimes referring to the canopy itself along with changeable copy and/or images. Typical marquee signage is found at the entry to theaters and movie houses overhanging the box office and announcing current and future shows.
"Mobile billboard"
shall mean a sign mounted on a vehicle or trailer that is used for general advertising or advertising for hire. Signs that are permanently affixed to the vehicle in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 21100(p)(2) are not considered to be a mobile billboard.
"Monument sign"
shall mean a permanent freestanding sign with a solid or decorative base constructed of permanent material.
"Multi-tenant center"
shall mean a building or group of buildings on one (1) or more properties containing more than one (1) establishment such as a shopping center or building complex.
"Name plate"
shall mean a small plate made of metal, acrylic, wood, or other material placed on a door or wall next to an entryway identifying the occupant.
"Noncommercial sign"
shall mean a sign with a message which is not commercial in nature. Such messages typically relate to debatable matters of public concern, such as, by way of example and not limitation, advocacy on politics, religion, arts, science, philosophy, commentary on governmental policy, and similar topics.
"Off-site sign"
shall mean a sign advertising a business, product, person, activity, event or service not conducted, sold, manufactured, offered, or located on the property where the sign is located.
"On-site sign"
shall mean a sign advertising, or pertain to, a business, product, person, activity, event or service conducted, sold, manufactured, offered, or located on the property where the sign is located. In the case of a multi-tenant center, a sign for an establishment located within the center is defined as being "on-site" anywhere within the center, even if the center is located on more than one (1) parcel, so long as the sign and the establishment are located within the boundary of the same sign district and the sign has been approved in the comprehensive sign program for that sign district.
"Pad site"
shall mean a freestanding building site for only one (1) establishment that is typically located in front of a larger commercial center. The site may be located on the same parcel or a separate parcel from the larger center but shares on-site parking and access from the public right-of-way with the abutting center.
"Parcel"
shall mean a legal parcel of land or lot in compliance with the Subdivision Map Act (California Government Code Section 66410 et seq.), as it may be amended.
"Planning Commission" or "Commission"
shall mean the Planning Commission of the City of Turlock.
"Pole sign"
shall mean a freestanding sign supported wholly by one (1) pole placed in the ground.
"Primary sign"
shall mean a sign placed on a building facade that is larger than any other sign on that same facade.
"Projecting sign"
means a wall sign which protrudes horizontally from the wall to which it is attached. Such signs may extend over the public right-of-way.
"Property"
shall mean one (1) or more parcels of land, or portions thereof, that the Director determines operate or function as a single use.
"Pylon sign"
shall mean a freeway-oriented freestanding sign with a solid or decorative base constructed of permanent material.
"Raceway"
shall mean a channel box that holds sign letters in place and houses the electrical wiring of a sign.
"Reader boards"
shall mean a sign face, building face, or any building or structural component that displays still images, scrolling images, moving images, or flashing images, including video and animation, through the use of grid lights, cathode ray projections, light emitting diodes, plasma screens, liquid crystal displays, fiber optics, or other electronic media or technology that is either independent of, attached to, integrated into, or projected onto a building or structure component, and that may be changed remotely through electronic means.
"Roof line"
shall mean the line formed by the junction of the roof and the outside wall of any building.
"Roof-mounted sign"
shall mean a sign erected, projecting or protruding on or above the roof line of a building, or a sign painted on or attached directly to the roof.
"Secondary sign"
shall mean a sign that is not a primary sign.
"Shopping center"
shall mean a group of commercial establishments, located within a building or a group of buildings, oriented or arranged on one (1) or more parcels, sharing common parking, access, and/or vehicle or pedestrian circulation amenities.
"Sign"
shall mean any device, structure, fixture, or placard displaying graphics, symbols, and/or written copy for the primary purpose of communicating with the public and such image can be read or identified from any public right-of-way or public parking lot. Notwithstanding the generality of the foregoing, the following do not fall within the definition of a "sign":
(1) 
TMC 4-3-204(g) (Amendments to the Fire Code-204(g) (Amendments to the Fire Code – Fire Department access). Street address signs on buildings and building identification signs consistent with the City-adopted building code or relevant provisions of the Turlock Municipal Code. Notwithstanding anything in this article, street address signs may be illuminated and may contain reflective paint or material.
(2) 
Architectural detail. Lettering or graphics less than one (1') foot in height which is either carved into a building or otherwise made a part of the architectural detail of the building provided it is not illuminated, is made of nonreflective material, does not contrast with the color of the building, and is less than one (1") inch in thickness (depth).
(3) 
Identification signs for State or Federally regulated buildings or uses (i.e., public schools, State universities, United States Post Office, and other similar uses).
(4) 
Interior signs. Signs, advertisements, merchandise displays, or other visual communicative devices that are located entirely within a building or other enclosed structure and may be visible outside the building by a window or doorway, including, but not limited to, advertisements displayed in the window.
(5) 
Personal appearance. Items or devices of personal apparel, decoration or appearance, including tattoos, makeup, wigs, costumes, masks, etc. (but not including commercial mascots).
(6) 
Manufacturers' marks. Marks on tangible products, which identify the maker, seller, provider or product, and which customarily remain attached to the product even after sale.
(7) 
Original art murals and sculptures. Nonilluminated, one-of-a-kind, hand-painted, hand-tiled, spray painted or digitally printed image on the exterior wall of a building, or a sculpture that does not contain a commercial message for a business conducted, services rendered, or goods produced or sold on the same property.
(8) 
Fireworks. The legal use of fireworks, candles and artificial lighting not otherwise regulated by this article.
(9) 
Commemorative plaques. Signs embedded in or cut into a permanent surface with the names and/or erection dates of the structure. Such signs shall not be illuminated and shall be no greater than two (2) square feet in total area.
(10) 
Grave stones and grave markers.
(11) 
News racks and newsstands.
(12) 
Barber poles.
(13) 
Credit card, trading stamps, association memberships, and other similar informational signs when not one-half (1/2) square foot or less in total size and placed in a window or door.
(14) 
Shopping carts, golf carts, and horse-drawn carriages.
(15) 
Vending machines that display only the contents of the vending machine.
(16) 
Graphic images which are visible only from above, such as those visible only from airplanes or helicopters, only if not visible to the public from a public sidewalk, highway, street, or other public right-of-way.
(17) 
Decorations, such as lights, figurines, small statues, and other similar items, that are on display and do not include commercial advertising messages.
(18) 
Noncommercial flags not exceeding twenty-four (24) square feet in size. Flags shall be displayed from permanently installed flagpoles and shall not be attached directly to the ground. Flagpoles and other structures for the display of a flag shall conform to zoning requirements and the requirements of the California Building Code.
(19) 
Signs and advertising for the California State lottery as authorized by California Government Code Section 8880 et seq.
(20) 
Official traffic signs or other municipal governmental signs, legal notices, advertisements prescribed by law and placed by governmental entities, and signs indicating the location of buried utility lines or any notice posted by a governmental officer in the scope of his or her duties.
(21) 
Direction, warning, or informational signs or structures required or authorized by law, or by Federal, State, County, or City authority.
"Sign area"
shall mean the total area of the sign copy of a sign calculated in accordance with TMC 9-2-510(a).
"Sign area ratio"
shall mean the mathematical relationship between the length of a building frontage for an establishment and the maximum sign area for the use.
"Sign band"
shall mean the rectangular two (2) dimensional shape enclosing the extreme limits of the sign copy.
"Sign band, bottom"
shall mean lowest edge of the sign copy.
"Sign band, height"
shall mean the greatest vertical distance between the bottom and the top of the sign band. There shall be no adjustment to the sign band height based on any irregularities in the shape of the sign copy.
"Sign band, width"
shall mean the greatest horizontal distance between two (2) sides of the outer edges of the sign copy.
"Sign band, mid-point"
shall mean the point on the sign located half-way between the top and the bottom of the sign band.
"Sign band, top"
shall mean the highest edge of the sign copy.
"Sign band, vertical distance"
shall mean greatest vertical distance between the top of the sign band and the finished grade of the top of the adjacent street or sidewalk, whichever is lower in elevation.
"Sign copy"
shall mean any color, graphic, logo, symbol, word, numeral text, image, message, picture, or combination thereof displaying a commercial message.
"Sign district"
shall mean a contiguous geographic area defined by the outer boundary of the parcels of land regulated under a comprehensive sign program.
"Sign face"
shall mean the entire visible surface of a sign on which the sign copy is mounted, attached, or enclosed. The sign face includes any material or color forming the background to the sign copy or used to differentiate the sign copy from the backdrop of structure against which it is placed, including any supporting framework or bracing that is clearly incidental to the sign copy itself. Backing plates that outline the sign copy are part of the sign face unless they are transparent. A sign consisting of one (1) or more three (3) dimensional objects, such as balls, cubes, or clusters of objects, shall be deemed to have four (4) sign faces.
"Sign frame"
shall mean an area, or areas, on a building facade or sign structure on which a sign is to be placed. Such frames may be architectural features of sign (such as a sign panel), or an area demarcated by changes in architectural treatments (such as eaves, fascia, vertical or horizontal change in the depth of the wall, molding, changes in materials or colors, and the like) outlining a discrete area of the wall, panel or structure. When no such features exist on the building or structure, the exterior outline of the wall, panel or structure shall serve as the sign frame.
"Sign ordinance"
means this article, Article 5 of Chapter 9-2 TMC.
"Sign structure"
shall mean a separate freestanding physical structure constructed for the purpose of displaying a sign.
"Sign variance"
shall mean a permit granted through the process outlined in TMC 9-2-515(e) (Permit requirements and review procedures – Variances).
"Sports complex"
shall mean a group of sports facilities holding regular events open to the general public and not intended for the exclusive use of a specific group, institution, establishment, or organization.
"Standalone"
shall mean a single establishment located on a single property not shared by any other establishment.
"Street frontage"
shall mean a property line adjacent to a public highway, street or road. Property lines adjacent to alleys shall not be considered street frontage. The length of the street frontage shall be the total length of the property line adjacent to the public highway, street, or road. When the property line ends in an intersection, the street frontage may be lengthened to the intersection of the curb returns for the two intersecting roadways.
"Subdivision sign"
shall mean a temporary sign for a subdivision of five (5) or more lots.
"Temporary sign"
shall mean any sign designed or intended to be displayed for a limited period of time and is not permanently attached to a building, wall, sign structure, or other structure permanently attached to the ground.
"Tenant"
shall mean an establishment located within multi-tenant center, building complex or building.
"Theater"
shall mean a building or structure used for the purpose of conducting live dramatic, comedic or musical performances, the showing of motion pictures or similar recorded media, or other live performing arts.
"Under canopy sign"
shall mean any sign hanging below a canopy, awning, or building overhang.
"Vehicle retail sales"
shall mean an establishment where the primary purpose of the property is the outdoor display and sale of new or used automobiles, trucks, vans, motorcycles, trailers, recreational vehicles, farm equipment, construction equipment, and the like. The term does not include establishments for which the sale of vehicles is an incidental use, such as rental agencies.
"Visual weight"
shall mean a measure of the force that an element exerts to attract the eye. Visual weight is not measured quantitatively but is a qualitative measure of the degree to which an element attracts the eye and is influenced by a combination of factors, including, but not limited to:
(1) 
Position (the further out an element is from the center, the heavier it will feel);
(2) 
Size (larger feels heavier);
(3) 
Texture (an element with more complex texture is heavier visually than one with a simple texture or no texture at all);
(4) 
Isolation (an isolated element has more visual weight);
(5) 
Value (darker feels heavier);
(6) 
Value contrast (the higher the value-contrast, the heavier the weight);
(7) 
Quantity (multiple small objects can balance one (1) larger object);
(8) 
Orientation (a diagonal orientation carries more visual weight than a horizontal or vertical one;
(9) 
Shape (elements that have more complex shapes feel heavier than those with simple shapes); and/or
(10) 
Color (the brighter and more intense its color, the heavier the element will feel).
"Wall sign"
shall mean a sign painted on, attached to, or erected against, the wall of a building and does not project above the wall, eave or fascia of the building.
"Window sign"
shall mean any sign placed on the interior of a window, painted on a window, or otherwise applied to a window such that it can be read from the outside of the building.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Sign area. The sign area shall be calculated based on the dimensions of a single, continuous, rectilinear perimeter of not more than eight (8) straight lines enclosing the extreme limits of the sign copy, including, but not limited to, letters, pictures, symbols, logos, artwork, emblems, or other images, conveying a commercial message, and any blank spaces between sign copy and does not include the sign frame or sign face of the sign. Backing plates that outline individual letters, pictures, symbols, words, logos, artwork, emblems, or other images in the commercial display shall count as part of the sign area unless they are transparent and nonilluminated. In the case of multi-sided and three (3) dimensional signs, the sign area shall be computed as to total commercial display area on all sides of the sign structure.
(b) 
Sign structure height. The height of the sign structure shall be measured as the greatest vertical distance measured from the top of: (1) the street curb closest to the sign; (2) the centerline of the adjacent street; or (3) the grade of the property, whichever is lowest, to the highest point of the physical structure.
(c) 
Maximum sign area for each building frontage of an establishment. The maximum sign area for any building frontage shall be based on the length of that building frontage multiplied by the maximum sign area ratio as defined in TMC 9-2-518(b). In no case shall the maximum sign area for any building frontage be transferred to another building frontage.
(d) 
Maximum sign area for an establishment. The maximum sign area for an establishment is the sum total of the maximum sign area for all building frontages of that establishment. When an establishment utilizes advertising that is not directly placed on the wall, awning, canopy or other building element, the sign area of the additional advertising space shall be limited by the maximum allowable sign area for the establishment, except when the advertising is installed on a permitted monument or pylon sign excluded from the maximum sign area calculation pursuant to TMC 9-2-518 (Permanent on-site signs).
(e) 
Signs excluded from maximum sign area calculations. The calculation of maximum sign area does not include exempt signs, temporary signs, monument signs, pylon signs, or other signs specifically excluded from the maximum sign area calculation pursuant to TMC 9-2-518 (Permanent on-site signs). All other signs shall be included in the calculation of maximum sign area.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Standards for all signs, including exempt signs. All signs, whether permanent, temporary, or exempt, shall meet the following requirements:
(1) 
Signs shall be placed in a location and constructed of materials approved by the property owner and the City.
(2) 
Signs shall not interfere with or obstruct pedestrian, bicycle, or vehicular circulation.
(3) 
Signs shall be located outside the clear vision triangle for any street, alley, or driveway.
(4) 
Signs shall not obstruct the vision of motorists or pedestrians, or the visibility of any traffic and other public safety signs or devices.
(5) 
Signs shall not create a hazard to the life or property of any person as determined by the City Engineer or the Chief of Police.
(6) 
Signs shall not create an adverse impact on an adjacent use or neighborhood.
(7) 
Signs shall comply with all Federal, State or City codes, regulations and laws as they may now exist or may hereafter exist.
(b) 
Construction standards. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be manufactured, assembled, and erected in compliance with all applicable State, Federal, and City codes, regulations, and laws. In addition, all signs shall comply with the following criteria:
(1) 
All transformers, equipment, programmers, and other related items shall be concealed within the sign and/or the wall of the building. Where concealment cannot be achieved, external exposure of these items may be approved by the Director when they are screened from public view through the application of architectural treatment, application of materials similar to the wall of the building and color.
(2) 
All permanent signs shall be constructed of high quality, low-maintenance materials such as metal, concrete, natural stone, glass, acrylic, and the like.
(3) 
Techniques shall be incorporated during construction to reduce fading and damage caused by exposure to sunlight or degradation due to other elements.
(4) 
All freestanding signs that incorporate lighting shall have underground utility service.
(c) 
Clearance from public utility facilities. The person erecting a sign and the property owner shall maintain any legally required clearance from communications and electric facilities. A sign may not be constructed, erected, installed, maintained, or repaired in any manner that conflicts with a rule, regulation, or order of the California Public Utilities Commission pertaining to the construction, operation, and maintenance of public utilities facilities.
(d) 
Maintenance standards. Every sign and all parts, portions, and materials thereof shall be maintained and kept in proper repair. The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted, and free from rust and corrosion. Any cracked, broken surfaces, malfunctioning lights, missing sign copy, or other nonmaintained or damaged portions of a sign shall be repaired or replaced.
(e) 
Sign removal or replacement. When a sign is removed or replaced, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that support the sign shall also be removed. Affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the adjacent portion of the structure. This standard does not apply to routine maintenance.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
General design standards. Permanent on-site signs shall comply with the following standards:
(1) 
Design compatibility with building. Signs shall be compatible with the architectural style, colors, textures, materials and design of the main building or buildings on the property where the sign is located. For example, if the building facade is made of brick or brick veneer, a complementary freestanding sign would also include brick. Signs located on commercial property permitted in residential zoning district or predominantly residential area shall consider compatibility with the architectural style of the residential area.
(2) 
Signs facing onto a residential property. Orientation of signs such that they face directly onto residential property is to be avoided and is allowed only when the Director determines there is no other feasible or practical alternative location for the sign and the visibility of the sign from the residences is minimized. Such signs are subject to the sign illumination standards in subsection (a)(4) of this section.
(3) 
Individual letters preferred. Individual channel letters, reverse channel letters (backlit), and pushpin letters are preferred over can or cabinet signs. A lower sign area ratio shall apply to establishments not utilizing individual letters.
(4) 
Sign illumination. The artificial illumination of signs, either from an internal or external source, shall be designed so as not to cast stray light on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. The following requirements shall apply to all illuminated signs:
(i) 
External illumination using concealed direct or architecturally treated lighting is preferred over internal illumination.
(ii) 
External light sources shall be directed and shielded to limit direct illumination of any object, building, structure, or space other than the sign.
(iii) 
The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will create glare or other negative impacts on residential properties in direct line of sight to the sign.
(iv) 
Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible and shall comply with Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.
(v) 
Externally illuminated signs shall utilize focused or shielded light fixtures that do not allow light or glare to shine above the horizontal plane of the top of the sign or onto a public right-of-way or adjoining property.
(vi) 
Light intensity. The intensity of lighting shall not exceed the following limits:
(aa) 
In residential zoning districts identified in Article 2 of Chapter 9-3 TMC or on properties zoned for commercial or industrial uses, signs within, or facing onto, a residential zoning district or residential property shall not be illuminated.
(ab) 
In mixed use zoning districts allowing single-family and/or multifamily dwellings, nonilluminated signs are preferred. When external illumination is permitted, sign illumination shall not exceed ten (10) luxes (one (1) foot-candle) measured at a distance of ten (10') feet from the sign. In any case, internal illumination of signs shall not be permitted in mixed use zoning districts.
(ac) 
In the commercial-office zoning district, sign illumination shall not exceed ten (10) luxes (one (1) foot-candle) measured at a distance of ten (10') feet from the sign.
(ad) 
In all other zoning districts, sign illumination shall not exceed one hundred luxes (ten (10) foot-candles) measured ten (10') feet from the sign.
(vii) 
Cabinet signs are prohibited in all downtown overlay districts. Only external illumination (such as gooseneck lighting) or reverse channel (backlit) lighting may be used.
(viii) 
All internally illuminated signs, including monument signs, wall signs, projecting signs and pylons shall have dark backgrounds with light letters. Light shall be emitted only through individual letters, graphics and symbols. The background of the sign shall not emit light.
(ix) 
Reflective bulbs and incandescent lamps shall not be used on the exterior surface of signs.
(5) 
Proportionality of the sign band. The sign band shall be proportional in size to the building facade or any other physical sign face, panel, or structure on which the sign is mounted. Notwithstanding any other allowances for maximum sign area, sign band height or sign band vertical distance, the sign band shall not exceed seventy (70%) percent of the width or eighty-five (85%) percent of the height of the sign frame on which the sign is to be mounted. When the sign band, or sign copy, is mounted on a sign face, the sign face shall be subject to these same limitations and the sign band shall fit entirely within the outer limits of the sign face.
(6) 
Balance in sign construction. Signs shall be constructed in such a manner that the architectural elements and sign face are visually pleasing. This is achieved by balancing structural elements, textures, and materials, as well as the location and distribution of the sign copy either symmetrically, by repeating the reverse of the design on the opposite side of a vertical axis (i.e., each side becomes a mirror image of the other), or asymmetrically through contrast using elements that are not identical but have equal visual weight.
(b) 
Design standards for specific sign types.
(1) 
Awning and canopy signs.
(i) 
Awning and canopy signs may be permitted only as an integral part of the awning or canopy to which they are permanently attached or applied.
(ii) 
Backlit or translucent awning and canopy signs are prohibited.
(iii) 
Temporary signs shall not be placed on awnings or canopies.
(iv) 
Awning and canopy signs shall only be allowed for first- and second-story occupancies and shall not extend above the top of the wall or fascia of the building.
(v) 
Awning and canopy signs shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for the establishment.
(2) 
Monument signs.
(i) 
Monument signs shall maintain a front or corner side yard setback equal to at least one-half (1/2) the height of the sign, measured from that part of the sign closest to the nearest property line of the parcel on which it is placed, with a minimum setback of five (5') feet. Interior side yard and rear yard setbacks for the applicable zoning district shall be met.
(ii) 
The monument shall include an address plate meeting the requirements established by the City of Turlock Fire Marshal.
(iii) 
The sign structure shall include an architectural base of at least twelve (12") inches above the finished grade where the sign is constructed. Architectural elements are required on the sides and top of the sign face to provide visual interest and to tie the monument sign into the architecture of the primary building(s).
(iv) 
Monument signs may be one (1) or two (2) sided. The maximum sign area shall apply to each side of the monument sign.
(v) 
The sign structure may be up to fifteen (15%) percent taller or wider than the allowed sign band to incorporate architectural elements designed to enhance the compatibility of the sign with the building. No commercial message may be placed in this area except the address of the site or the name of a multi-tenant center and shall not include the name of any business, product, or service offered on the site.
(vi) 
In multi-tenant centers, when a monument sign includes advertising space for individual tenants, the name of the center shall not be included in the calculation of maximum sign area when the name of the center is no larger than eight (8) square feet in sign area. When the name of the center is the only commercial message on the monument sign, the name of the center may increase to the maximum allowable sign area for the center.
(vii) 
In an effort to promote full architectural integration of signs, voids between the sign face and the sign structure are prohibited unless the signs are to be mounted on individual architectural panels.
(viii) 
The height of the sign copy shall be a minimum of eight (8") inches.
(ix) 
Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the sign. Landscaping shall be complementary to the landscaping of the overall site. The design of the landscaping shall be such that natural growth will not obscure the sign from the public right-of-way at full maturity.
(x) 
Monument signs shall not be counted toward the maximum sign area for an establishment.
(3) 
Wall signs.
(i) 
Wall signs shall be located on a building frontage of the establishment except as provided in subsection (a)(2) of this section (Signs facing onto a residential property).
(ii) 
Wall signs shall not project above the fascia, eave or roof line.
(iii) 
The sign copy and/or sign frame for a wall sign shall be placed above the physical space of the establishment. Wall signs for more than one (1) establishment shall not be vertically stacked on top of one another within the same sign frame.
(iv) 
Wall signs shall be centered vertically and horizontally within a sign frame. For multi-tenant centers, the location of the sign frame for each establishment shall be identified in the comprehensive sign program. When no comprehensive sign program has been approved, the Director shall designate the sign frame for wall signs for individual establishments.
(v) 
Wall signs shall not project more than twelve (12") inches from the building facade.
(vi) 
Wall signs shall not obstruct any portion of a window or doorway.
(vii) 
Multiple elements (e.g., logo and text) within a sign band shall be located and scaled with relationship to each other.
(viii) 
Wall signs shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for an establishment.
(4) 
Directional signs.
(i) 
The sign frame shall not exceed four (4) square feet per sign.
(ii) 
A commercial message may comprise up to twenty (20%) percent of the sign frame. In these cases, the sign area of the commercial message shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for an establishment.
(iii) 
The maximum sign band height for any commercial message shall not exceed eight (8") inches in height.
(iv) 
Wall-mounted directional signs shall not project above the fascia, eave or roof line.
(v) 
The height of a sign structure for directional signs shall not exceed six (6') feet in height, except, when located within the clear vision triangle, the height of the structure shall not exceed three (3') feet in height measured from the grade of the adjacent street or sidewalk, whichever is lowest.
(vi) 
Limit on number.
(aa) 
One (1) directional sign is permitted for each driveway leading from the public right-of-way onto the property.
(ab) 
One (1) directional sign is permitted adjacent to the entrance to each drive-through lane.
(ac) 
One (1) directional sign is permitted for each service or delivery entrance.
(ad) 
Additional directional signs may be permitted to satisfy health and safety needs.
(vii) 
Directional signs may be illuminated.
(viii) 
Directional signs shall be constructed of durable materials.
(5) 
Informational signs.
(i) 
The sign face shall not exceed the size necessary to convey the informational message. Sign text and graphics should generally be no more than two (2") inches in height or readable from the public right-of-way, but may be larger upon approval by the Director.
(ii) 
Informational signs shall not contain a commercial message.
(iii) 
Wall-mounted informational signs shall not exceed the height of the wall to which it is attached and shall not project above the eave or roof line.
(iv) 
The height of the freestanding structure for informational signs shall not exceed six (6') feet in height, except, when located within the clear vision triangle, the height of the structure shall not exceed three (3') feet in height measured from the grade of the adjacent street or sidewalk, whichever is lowest. This limitation does not apply to any informational sign required by law or governmental regulation.
(v) 
There is no limit on the number of informational signs that may be approved; however, the number shall be no more than required to adequately notify the public of the information displayed on the sign.
(vi) 
Informational signs shall be nonilluminated except when the Director determines illumination is required to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
(vii) 
Signs shall be constructed of durable materials.
(viii) 
Informational signs shall not be counted toward the maximum sign area for the establishment.
(6) 
Directory signs.
(i) 
Each building with more than two (2) tenants may install a directory sign located outside the building. The sign may be freestanding or wall mounted.
(ii) 
The sign shall be located within ten (10') feet of the building or on the wall of the building except the Director may approve a directory sign in a landscaped bed within the parking lot area to improve internal circulation and wayfinding. In these cases, the directory sign shall be oriented to improve internal circulation only.
(iii) 
The sign structure shall be no taller than six (6') feet in height.
(iv) 
The sign face shall not exceed sixteen (16) square feet.
(v) 
Each tenant shall be advertised only once on the directory sign and shall have a maximum sign area of two (2) square feet.
(vi) 
The maximum sign band height for each tenant shall be no taller than four (4") inches.
(vii) 
The name of the building or center may be included on the sign and shall not count toward the maximum sign area. Lettering for the name of the building or center shall be no taller than six (6") inches in height and shall not exceed the width of sign band for any tenant.
(viii) 
Directory signs shall not be counted toward the maximum sign area for an establishment.
(7) 
Freeway-oriented pylon signs.
(i) 
Freeway-oriented pylon signs shall require approval by the Planning Commission as part of a comprehensive sign program.
(ii) 
The sign shall be compatible in design, structure, materials, and composition to existing freeway-oriented pylon signs.
(iii) 
Pylon signs shall be two (2) sided with both sides oriented perpendicular to the freeway to be seen by both northbound and southbound traffic.
(iv) 
Pylon signs shall be spaced a minimum of one thousand (1,000') feet apart and shall be placed no farther than seven hundred fifty (750') feet from Highway 99 right-of-way line.
(v) 
The maximum height of the pylon sign structure shall not exceed the height allowed in TMC 9-2-518 (Permanent on-site signs).
(vi) 
Pylon signs shall maintain a minimum setback of fifteen (15') feet from the front or corner side property line. Interior side and rear yard setbacks for the zoning district shall be maintained. When no setbacks are required for the zoning district, a minimum ten (10') foot setback shall be maintained to all property lines.
(vii) 
Maximum sign area for the pylon sign shall be four hundred fifty (450) square feet per side.
(viii) 
The maximum allowable sign area per establishment shall be seventy-five (75) square feet per side.
(ix) 
The sign shall include identification for the City of Turlock, such as the City's official logo, the name "City of Turlock," or other identifying image approved by the Planning Commission. The City identification shall not be calculated in the maximum sign area. The minimum height of the City identification element shall be five (5') feet.
(x) 
The sign shall include the name and/or logo of the center at a minimum sign band height of two and one-half (2-1/2') feet and a maximum sign band height of ten (10') feet. The name and/or logo of the center shall not be calculated in the maximum sign area for the pylon sign.
(xi) 
The sign structure shall include an architectural base proportional in size to the overall height of the structure.
(xii) 
Architectural elements designed to enhance compatibility of the sign structure with the architectural elements of the center or building is required.
(xiii) 
In an effort to promote full architectural integration of signs, voids between the sign face and the sign structure should be avoided.
(xiv) 
Individual pan channel letters or reverse channel letters are required. Cabinet (or can) signs shall not be permitted.
(xv) 
Landscaping shall be provided at the base of the sign extending at least ten (10') feet from the footings of the pylon sign. Landscaping shall be integrated into the landscaping for the existing site. When the pylon sign is located on an individual parcel, the entire parcel shall be landscaped in accordance with TMC 9-2-109 (Landscaping and irrigation). Landscaping shall be complementary to the landscaping for the overall site.
(xvi) 
The sign area for the pylon sign shall not be counted toward the maximum sign area for any establishment.
(8) 
Drive-through lane board signs.
(i) 
Each drive-through facility is permitted a maximum of two (2) drive-through lane board signs per drive-through lane.
(ii) 
Signs shall be adjacent to the drive-through lane.
(iii) 
Signs shall be located in accordance with the minimum drive-through stacking distances established in TMC 9-2-127 (Drive-through facilities).
(iv) 
Signs shall not be located as to impair the vision of the driver of a vehicle traveling either into, out of, or through the drive-through aisle.
(v) 
The sign frame shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
(vi) 
Changeable copy is limited to the menu board and may not be changed more than two (2) times per day.
(vii) 
Up to five (5%) percent of the face of the drive-through lane board may be used for a commercial message and shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for the establishment.
(viii) 
The height of the sign structure shall not exceed six (6') feet measured from the average grade of the adjacent drive-through lane.
(ix) 
The visual impact of menu and preview board signs shall be minimized by utilizing low intensity illumination.
(x) 
Menu and preview boards shall not be visible from the street. Solid walls, additional landscape areas or shrub plantings may be required to provide appropriate screening. When landscape is used as a screen, the applicant shall be required to plant specimen size plants to take more immediate effect.
(xi) 
Any proposed carhop or walk-up menu boards shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area and shall be located in areas approved in a comprehensive sign program.
(xii) 
Menu and preview boards should be placed in a landscaped planter at least five (5') feet in width and depth, when possible. Landscaping shall be complementary to the landscaping of the overall site.
(xiii) 
Loud speakers shall be directed away from residential areas and shall be subject to the noise standards in Chapter 5-28 TMC.
(xiv) 
Menu and preview boards shall not be counted toward the sign area of an establishment.
(9) 
Projecting signs. Projecting signs, including, but not limited to, blade signs, bracket signs, and marquee signs, are subject to the following standards:
(i) 
Projecting signs are permitted only in the downtown core downtown overlay district in Article 1 of Chapter 9-4 TMC and in commercial zoning districts in Article 3 of Chapter 9-3 TMC except the commercial office zoning district.
(ii) 
Only one (1) projecting sign is allowed per property.
(iii) 
A projecting sign shall not be approved for multi-tenant developments or shopping centers unless permitted in a comprehensive sign program.
(iv) 
Signs projecting into public right-of-way.
(aa) 
Any sign projecting into a public right-of-way more than one (1') foot shall be multi-faced and fully enclosed.
(ab) 
The sign shall not extend more than two-thirds (2/3) of the distance from the property line to the face of the planned curb face, or six and one-half (6-1/2') feet, whichever is less.
(v) 
An encroachment permit may be required for any sign projecting into the public right-of-way, into a designated emergency vehicle/fire access lane, or into City-owned property.
(vi) 
Projecting signs shall either be oriented at right angles to the front of the building or, when mounted on the corner of a building, on a plane that bisects the angle created by the two (2) intersecting sides of the building.
(vii) 
The lowest point of a blade or bracket sign shall be a minimum of eight feet (8') above grade and may not exceed the height limits in TMC 9-2-518 (Permanent on-site signs).
(viii) 
The sign shall be suspended with a clear space of at least six (6") inches between the sign frame and the building.
(ix) 
Sign supports and brackets shall be compatible with the design and scale of the sign, and concealed to the greatest extent feasible.
(x) 
Projecting signs shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for an establishment. When a projecting sign bisects the angle created by the two (2) intersecting sides of a building, the property owner may determine which building frontage the sign area will be assigned to for the purposes of calculating maximum sign area. The maximum sign area for the projecting sign shall not be cumulative (i.e., the sign area allowed for the projecting sign may not be increased to the sum of the maximum sign area for both building frontages).
(10) 
Commercial flags. Commercial flags may be allowed on site subject to the following standards:
(i) 
Flags shall be mounted on permanent flagpoles which conform to zoning requirements and the requirements of the California Building Code.
(ii) 
The location and size of the flagpole shall comply with the height and development standards of the zoning district.
(iii) 
The lowest point of a flag shall be a minimum of eight feet (8') above the highest grade of the property.
(iv) 
Flags shall only be allowed on a parcel directly abutting a public road, street, or highway.
(v) 
Flagpoles shall be located in close proximity to the establishment which is being advertised and within the first one-third (1/3) of the property measured from the public road, street, or highway.
(vi) 
Flags shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in total size.
(vii) 
No more than one (1) commercial flag shall be allowed per establishment. For multi-tenant centers, no more than one (1) commercial flag shall be allowed unless a comprehensive sign program has been approved by the Planning Commission allowing for a greater number.
(viii) 
Flags shall be made of durable, nonreflective material and shall not be illuminated.
(ix) 
Flags shall be removed or replaced when faded or tattered.
(x) 
Commercial flags shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for an establishment.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
The signs listed in this section are inconsistent with the purposes and requirements of this article and as such are prohibited in all zoning districts.
(a) 
Any sign not specifically permitted by this article.
(b) 
Roof-mounted signs or signs placed above the roof line.
(c) 
Billboards.
(d) 
Electronic message boards or centers.
(e) 
Signs where any portion of the content changes more than eight (8) times per day.
(f) 
Reader boards or other devices with the ability to scroll messages shall not be permitted.
(g) 
Flashing signs that contain, include, or are illuminated by flashing, intermittent or moving lights.
(h) 
Flying or aerial signs, such as blimps or kites, designed to be kept aloft by mechanical, wind, chemical or hot air means, unless specifically exempted by the Turlock Municipal Code.
(i) 
Pole signs.
(j) 
Inflatable signs, including, but not limited to, individual balloons, balloon strings, inflatable characters, and other inflatable objects made of a flexible material and inflated so as to be lighter than air.
(k) 
Signs that are mobile, rotate, wave, or move by mechanical or natural means such as flags, pennants, mechanical characters, air- or wind-activated signs (such as air dancers), or other similar devices, except as expressly permitted in this article.
(l) 
Signs held by hand, or personally attended to, displaying a commercial message.
(m) 
Movable or portable signs.
(n) 
Signs posted in the ground or to posts, trees, utility poles, fences, or similar support structures for the purpose of advertising an event or product.
(o) 
Signs that are mounted on a motor vehicle that are not an integral part of the vehicle. This prohibition applies to advertising billboards, A-frame signs, trailer-mounted signs or other advertising structures that are mounted onto, and are not an integral part of, the motor vehicle.
(p) 
Signs blocking a vehicular, bicycle, or pedestrian path of travel.
(q) 
Signs blocking, interfering with, or that could be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device by reason of location, position, shape, color, words, phrases, symbols or for any other reason.
(r) 
Any sign creating a public safety or traffic safety hazard. Such signs may be immediately removed by the City without notification to the owner of the sign at the cost of the sign owner or property owner.
(s) 
Signs advertising developments outside the City limit shall be prohibited. This section is not intended to prohibit signs for developments that are in the process of annexation.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
The following signs do not require approval of a sign permit but are subject to any and all other applicable development and design standards in this article as well as any other permit requirements that may apply, including, but not limited to, building, electrical, plumbing, grading, and encroachment permit(s).
(a) 
Exempt temporary signs. A temporary sign shall not be exempt if it requires approval of any other permit from the City, including, but not limited to, building, electrical, plumbing, grading, and encroachment permit(s). All exempt temporary signs must be located at least five (5') feet from any property line, shall not be illuminated and are subject to the development standards and design standards contained in this article. The following temporary signs do not require approval of a sign permit provided they are placed on private property for a limited period of time:
(1) 
Signs held by hand, or personally attended to, on private property and displaying a noncommercial message when consistent with all of the following conditions and requirements:
(i) 
The signs must be personally held by a person or personally attended by one (1) or more persons. "Personally attended" means that a person is physically present within five (5') feet of the sign at all times.
(ii) 
The maximum aggregate sign area of all signs held, or personally attended to, by a single person is twelve (12) square feet per side.
(iii) 
The maximum aggregate sign area of all signs held or personally held, or personally attended to, by two (2) or more persons is thirty-two (32) square feet per display face.
(iv) 
The sign must have no more than two (2) display faces and may not be inflatable, air-activated, internally illuminated, electronic, flashing, rotating, or made of any other materials that are mobile or move, and shall not be constructed of any material(s) that could pose a threat to persons or property.
(v) 
Apparel and other aspects of personal appearance not containing a commercial message shall not count toward the maximum aggregate sign area.
(2) 
Signs erected on private property displaying a noncommercial message when consistent with the following conditions and requirements:
(i) 
Residential properties. Individual signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet in size, shall not exceed four (4') feet in height measured from the grade of the property.
(ii) 
Nonresidential properties. Individual signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in size and shall not exceed six (6') feet in height measured from the grade of the property.
(iii) 
Signs shall not occupy more than twenty-five (25%) percent of the street frontage of the property as observed from the public right-of-way.
(iv) 
Noncommercial messages related to a specific time frame or event shall be removed within five (5) days of the last day of the time frame or event.
(v) 
All signs shall be constructed of durable materials and may not be permanently mounted to the ground or a building.
(vi) 
Signs shall not be located closer than five (5') feet to any property line.
(3) 
Signs erected on private property undergoing construction or remodeling no taller than six feet (6') in height, no greater than thirty-two (32) square feet in area, and located at least ten (10') feet from any property line. One (1) such sign is permitted per site. Such signs shall be removed within thirty (30) days of the earliest of the following events: final building inspection approval, issuance of a valid certificate of occupancy, opening for business to the public, or expiration of the building permit. Such signs may also be mounted directly onto the protective temporary fencing for a construction site so long as the sign does not project beyond the limits of a single fence panel.
(4) 
Signs on private property for sale, lease, or rental of a single property, building or unit, as follows:
(i) 
Residential uses with one (1) or two (2) dwelling units.
(aa) 
Only one (1) sign is permitted on a parcel that is being sold.
(ab) 
The sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet per side for a maximum of two (2) sides.
(ac) 
The sign shall not exceed six (6') feet in height measured from the grade of the parcel.
(ad) 
No more than four (4) off-site directional signs mounted on an A-frame sign, or other similar devices. The signs shall not be connected to the ground and shall be no greater than six (6) square feet in area. The signs shall only be displayed for the period when the realtor is physically present on the property being sold.
(ii) 
Multifamily uses with three (3) or more dwelling units, commercial and industrial uses.
(aa) 
One (1) sign per street frontage is permitted on a parcel that is being sold, leased or rented. If multiple units on the same parcel are being sold, leased or rented by different realtors, additional signs may be approved by the Director.
(ab) 
The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area and shall not exceed six (6') feet in height measured from the grade of the parcel.
(ac) 
No more than twenty-five (25%) percent of a street frontage, excluding driveways, may be utilized for the display of such signs.
(5) 
Signs mounted directly on the body of a vehicle in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 21100(p)(2). Signs must be permanently affixed to the body of, an integral part of, or a fixture of a motor vehicle for permanent decoration, identification, or display. Signs shall not extend the body of the vehicle in any way. The signs must be painted directly on the body of the vehicle, applied as a decal on the body of a motor vehicle, or placed on a location of the body of the motor vehicle that was specifically designed by a vehicle manufacturer. This exemption shall not apply to advertising billboards, A-frame signs, trailer-mounted signs or other advertising structures that are mounted onto, but are not an integral part of, the motor vehicle.
(6) 
Signs mounted directly on a window surface of a vehicle for sale or lease on a permitted vehicle sales lot. The sign shall not project above the surface of the window by more than one (1") inch and shall not extend beyond the limits of the glass surface of the window on which it is mounted.
(7) 
Signs mounted directly on a machine, dispenser, or other premanufactured device that is permanently affixed as an integral part of the device and cannot be removed or replaced without dismantling the machine, dispenser or device on which it is displayed.
(b) 
Exempt permanent signs. The following permanent signs do not require approval of a sign permit but are subject to any and all other development and design standards contained in this article as well as any other permit requirements that may apply, including, but not limited to, building, electrical, plumbing, grading, and encroachment permit(s).
(1) 
Name plates. For residential uses, one (1) name plate no greater than one (1) square foot in area mounted on the wall of the primary residence. For commercial and industrial uses, one (1) name plate no greater than three (3) square feet in area. Such signs shall not be illuminated and shall be made of nonreflective material. The name plate may not project more than one-half (1/2") inch from the wall of the building.
(2) 
Informational signs. Informational signs such as "no parking," "entrance," "exit," "loading only," or similar directives subject to the development and design standards of this article.
(3) 
Outdoor display cases for governmental offices and public assembly uses. A display case or bulletin board mounted onto the wall of a building not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area and no taller than eight (8') feet from the grade of the parcel or adjacent sidewalk, whichever is less. Letters and symbols posted in the case shall not be taller than four (4") inches in height and shall not be illuminated. External illumination may be used to permit pedestrians to read the contents of the display case.
(4) 
Under canopy signs. Signs constructed under a canopy or awning shall be allowed in multi-tenant commercial and industrial centers, and for ground-level establishments in the downtown core downtown overlay district, provided each shall not exceed four (4) square feet in area and shall be mounted perpendicular to the building facade and oriented to pedestrian traffic. The sign area shall not be counted toward the sign area allowance for the center or the establishment. The sign shall not extend lower than eight (8') feet above the grade of the parcel or sidewalk over which it is suspended. Only one (1) sign shall be displayed per public entrance. Under canopy signs shall not be illuminated.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Permit required. Except as otherwise provided in this article, it shall be unlawful to erect, alter, reface, or relocate or cause to be erected, altered, refaced, or relocated any sign within the City without first obtaining approval of a sign permit from the Director and paying the required fee. It shall be unlawful for any person to maintain, or cause to be maintained, any sign within the City for which a permit has not been obtained, unless otherwise exempted by this article.
(b) 
Application requirements. Applications pursuant to this article shall be filed with the Planning Division on forms provided for that purpose. The application shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee as established by City Council resolution. The application shall contain the following information:
(1) 
The name, address, telephone number and email address of the owner of the property for upon which the signs are to be placed and the owner's signed consent to the application;
(2) 
Information on the location, overall size, and dimensions of the building and/or tenant space for which the sign is being erected;
(3) 
Sign details indicating number of signs, sign area, colors, dimensions, letter height, sign height, letter style, graphic style, materials, method of illumination, and method of construction and building attachment;
(4) 
An accurately scaled plot plan of the lot and/or tenant space depicting the location of signs, buildings, property lines, street frontages, parking lots, driveways, landscaped areas, easements, overhead utilities, above­ground equipment, and the clear vision triangle;
(5) 
Building elevations showing the placement of the sign(s) on the building facade(s);
(6) 
Any additional applications, documents, or materials required to process a building permit concurrent with the sign permit;
(7) 
For temporary signs, the schedule and duration of the display period; and
(8) 
Any additional information that may be required by the Director.
(c) 
Approval authority. The Director shall have the authority to approve a sign permit.
(d) 
Approval findings. A sign permit shall be approved by the Director if the following findings are made:
(1) 
The proposed sign conforms to the requirements of this article.
(2) 
The proposed sign conforms to the requirements of an applicable comprehensive sign program approved pursuant to TMC 9-2-516 (Comprehensive sign program).
(e) 
Variances. The Planning Commission shall have the authority to grant a variance to the provisions of this article pertaining to height, location, sign area, shape, projection, clearance, duration, sign type and number of signs. No sign variance shall allow any sign prohibited by TMC 9-2-513 (Prohibited signs). A sign variance shall be granted by the Planning Commission following the procedures set forth in TMC 9-5-613 through 9-5-625 upon determining at a public hearing that the following findings are established beyond reasonable doubt:
(1) 
The proposed sign and/or comprehensive sign program substantially complies with the requirements of this section with the exception of the variance requested.
(2) 
Granting a variance will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare or property or improvements in the vicinity or district where the property is located.
(3) 
The strict application of the sign regulations would result in practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship inconsistent with the general purposes and intent of this article.
(4) 
There are special circumstances applicable to the subject property such as size, shape, topography, location or surroundings that do not apply generally to other property in the same zone and vicinity.
(5) 
The variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right or use generally possessed by other property in the same zone and vicinity but which, because of the special circumstances and practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship, is denied to the property in question.
(6) 
The requested signage is compatible with the surrounding environment and will not adversely affect adjacent properties, property owners, and/or tenants. Compatibility will be determined by the relationships of the elements of form, proportion, scale, color, materials, surface treatment, overall sign size and the size and style of letter.
(7) 
The granting of the variance does not grant a special privilege inconsistent with the limitations on other properties in the same district.
(f) 
Historic signs.
(1) 
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to preserve and enhance the City's unique character by protecting its historic features.
(2) 
Qualification. A sign shall qualify as a historic sign if it meets all of the following requirements:
(i) 
The sign is:
(aa) 
At least fifty (50) years old;
(ab) 
Unique;
(ac) 
Originally associated with a chain or franchise business that is either: (a) a local or regional chain; or (b) a franchise only found in Turlock;
(ad) 
Supported by scholarly documentation; and
(ae) 
A rare surviving example of a once common type.
(ii) 
The sign exemplifies the cultural, economic, or period heritage of the City of Turlock.
(iii) 
The sign retains the majority of its character-defining features. If character-defining features have been altered or removed, the majority are potentially restorable to their original function and appearance.
(iv) 
All parts of the historic sign including neon tubes, incandescent lights and shields, and sign faces are maintained in a functioning condition as historically intended for the sign to the greatest degree possible.
(v) 
The sign uses materials and technology representative of its period of construction.
(vi) 
The sign may be freestanding, attached, projecting, or roof-mounted.
(vii) 
Signs originally designed to flash or move may be allowed to continue to flash so long as there is no alteration to the historic pattern, speed, or direction of flashing or moving elements.
(viii) 
The sign is structurally safe or can be made safe without substantially altering its original appearance.
(3) 
Changes to historic signs. Minor changes to a historic sign shall be approved by the Director to properly maintain the sign or to relocate the sign to protect its structural integrity when the following findings are made:
(i) 
The changes do not result in changes to the historic character of the sign.
(ii) 
The changes do not substantially alter the historic dimensions, height, color, scale, style, or type of materials of the historic sign.
(4) 
Major changes and reconstruction of historic signs. Full reconstruction of a historic sign, changes in text or graphics, or other major changes shall be granted by the Planning Commission upon determining the sign continues to qualify as a historic sign pursuant to subsection (f)(2) of this section.
(g) 
Iconic signs. The Planning Commission shall grant an exception to the provisions of this article for an iconic sign when the following findings are made:
(1) 
The sign has national or international recognition or connection to the proposed use of the property;
(2) 
The sign exhibits extraordinary aesthetic quality, creativity, or innovation;
(3) 
The sign enhances or promotes an attraction, special product or special service that has the potential to draw customers and visitors from outside the region, State or nation;
(4) 
The sign is compatible with the architecture of the building;
(5) 
The sign conforms to the greatest extent feasible with the sign development and design standards of this title with the exception of those elements necessary to achieve the intended purpose; and
(6) 
The exception granted is only that necessary to achieve the goal of promoting economic development and tourism within the City of Turlock.
(h) 
Disqualification. An application shall be disapproved under any of the following conditions:
(1) 
The applicant has installed a sign in violation of the provisions of this article and, at the time of submission of the application, each illegal sign has not been legalized, removed, or included in the application.
(2) 
There is any other existing code violation located on the site of the proposed sign(s) (other than an illegal or nonconforming sign that is not owned or controlled by the applicant and is located at a different business location on the site from that for which the approval is sought) which has not been cured at the time of the application, unless the noncompliance is proposed to be cured as part of the sign permit.
(3) 
The sign application is for substantially the same sign previously denied, unless: (i) twelve (12) months have elapsed since the date of the last application; or (ii) new evidence, or proof of changed conditions, is furnished in the new application.
(i) 
Applications for more than one (1) sign. When an application proposes two (2) or more signs, the application may be granted either in whole or in part, with separate decisions as to each proposed sign.
(j) 
Permits issued in error. Any approval or permit issued in error may be summarily revoked by the Director upon written notice to the permit holder of the reason for the revocation.
(k) 
Inspections. All signs requiring a permit shall be inspected for compliance with the permit requirements and conditions.
(l) 
Expiration and revocation.
(1) 
If the sign has not been erected or otherwise used within twelve (12) months after the granting of the approval, the sign permit shall automatically be null and void.
(2) 
In any case in which the terms of a sign permit or sign variance have not been complied with, the Planning Commission may, upon ten (10) days' prior written notice, hold a public hearing pursuant to TMC 9-5-116 (Hearings: Scope of provisions). At the conclusion of such hearing, the Planning Commission may revoke the permit if it finds substantial evidence exists that the terms of the permit have not been complied with.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Purpose. A comprehensive sign program ("program") is developed to enhance the attractiveness, ensure consistency in design, allocate sign space and timing, allow for special signage, and provide greater landlord control, of signs permitted in multi-tenant centers. The comprehensive sign program shall identify the parcel(s) of land to be included in the "sign district" regulated under the program. A comprehensive sign program shall be required for the following:
(1) 
For all new multi-tenant centers.
(2) 
To allow for the construction of specific types of signs allowed in a "sign district."
(3) 
To erect temporary subdivision signs for any property being developed as a residential subdivision of five (5) or more units.
(b) 
Exclusivity. A property may belong to only one (1) sign district and comprehensive sign program.
(c) 
Binding effect of a comprehensive sign program. Upon approval of a comprehensive sign program, all future signs erected on any property located within its sign district shall be governed by, and shall conform to, the program. No sign or building permits shall be issued for signs not in conformance with the program. All property owners located within the sign district of a comprehensive sign program shall be responsible for compliance with the program.
(d) 
Application requirements. Applications for a comprehensive sign program shall be filed with the Planning Division upon forms provided for that purpose. The application shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable fee established by City Council resolution. The application shall contain the following information:
(1) 
Property and property owner information. The name, address, telephone number and email address of the owner(s) of the parcel(s) upon which the sign is to be placed and the owner's (or owners') signed consent to the application.
(2) 
Sign information. Plans, to scale, to include the following:
(i) 
Sign details indicating number of signs, sign area, colors, dimensions, letter height, sign height, letter style, graphic style, materials, method of illumination, and method of construction and building attachment;
(ii) 
An accurately scaled plot plan of the parcel(s) depicting the location of buildings, parcel lines, street frontages, parking lots, driveways, and landscaped areas;
(iii) 
An accurately scaled plot plan indicating the location of all proposed signs with location, identification of easements, overhead utilities or other projections, and clear vision triangle;
(iv) 
Building elevation(s) depicting the location and dimensions of the sign frame for wall-mounted signs for individual establishments;
(v) 
Sign structure elevations depicting the location and dimension of the sign frame and center name, if applicable;
(vi) 
A summary table showing the complete sign program and total square footage of all on-site signs by type, size and location on the parcel; and
(vii) 
Any other requirements that may be established by the Director.
(3) 
Replacement of signs. A statement explaining how revisions, modifications, or replacement of tenant signs will be carried out to limit the possibility of holes being left in the structure's exterior by mounting brackets, electrical connections, or similar items.
(4) 
Temporary signs. Identification of the size, location, frequency, duration, design, materials, method of attachment to the building, and other features of temporary signs that will be permitted on the property as well as a statement of how the use of temporary signs will be monitored by the applicant to ensure compliance with the requirements of this article.
(5) 
Other. Any other supplemental information required by the Director.
(e) 
Authority to approve. The Planning Commission may approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove an application to create a comprehensive sign program.
(f) 
Findings. In approving an application to create a comprehensive sign program, the following findings shall be made:
(1) 
The comprehensive sign program satisfies the purpose and intent of this article;
(2) 
The proposed signs enhance the overall development, are in harmony with, and are visually related to other signs included in the comprehensive sign program and to the structure and/or uses they identify, and to surrounding development; and
(3) 
The comprehensive sign program accommodates future revisions that may be required due to changes in uses or tenants.
(g) 
Effectuation of a comprehensive sign program. Once a sign permit has been issued to an establishment or property owner located within the sign district of a comprehensive sign program, the program shall be considered effectuated and may be amended but not terminated.
(h) 
Amendments.
(1) 
Property owner consent required. Once a comprehensive sign program has been effectuated, an application to amend a program shall require the written, notarized authorization of all of the property owners that fall within its sign district boundary.
(2) 
Approval authority.
(i) 
Amendments involving major changes to a comprehensive sign program, including, but not limited to, changes in boundary of the sign district, sign area allowances, number or types of signs, height, location of proposed signs, or other significant design elements as determined by the Director, shall require approval by the Planning Commission.
(ii) 
Minor modifications to a comprehensive sign program involving changes to the construction methods, materials, colors, and plot plans, may be approved by the Director provided the changes are consistent with the prior approval by the Planning Commission.
(iii) 
Findings. In addition to the findings for approval of a comprehensive sign program contained in subsection (e) of this section (Authority to approve), amendments to an effectuated comprehensive sign program shall not be approved unless the following findings can be made:
(aa) 
The adoption of the comprehensive sign program did not grant the property owner(s) additional commercial advertising rights and/or privileges than would have otherwise been granted without a program;
(ab) 
Amending the program will not have an adverse impact on adjacent properties; and
(ac) 
Amending the program will not adversely affect the quality, logical order, and type of development of the property(ies) or adjacent properties.
(i) 
Termination. An effectuated comprehensive sign program may not be terminated. A comprehensive sign program that has not been effectuated may be terminated by the Director so long as written, notarized authorization is received from all property owners participating in, and subject to, the comprehensive sign program.
(j) 
Notification to new lessees. All new tenants leasing space within the sign district shall be subject to the requirements of an approved comprehensive sign program. The property owner and/or his/her representative shall provide a copy of the comprehensive sign program to all prospective tenants prior to entering into a lease and the lease shall require compliance with the approved comprehensive sign program. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that tenants comply with the approved comprehensive sign program. Property owners shall not authorize a sign permit application that is inconsistent with the approved comprehensive sign program.
(k) 
Signs in multi-tenant centers without a comprehensive sign program. When a multi-tenant center constructed prior to the enactment of this article has no approved comprehensive sign program, the Director may approve a sign permit in accordance with the following:
(1) 
Signs shall be designed to match the construction style, materials, finishes, lighting, and colors of any existing signs. Where no existing signs exist, the following design standards shall apply:
(i) 
All signs shall be composed of individual channel, reverse channel or pushpin letters. The use of cabinet signs shall be permitted only when the Director determines individual letters are not feasible or are incongruent with the existing design of signs in the center.
(ii) 
Signs shall be placed in a manner to ensure that future tenant signs can be constructed in a consistent and uniform manner.
(iii) 
No monument or pylon signs shall be permitted for the center.
(iv) 
Sign materials shall be compatible with the architecture and design of the building.
(v) 
All signs shall be constructed of uniform materials, colors, and fasteners.
(vi) 
Any other requirements as determined by the Director.
(2) 
Signs shall be required to fully conform to the development and design standards of this article. No variances or exceptions from the standards contained in the article shall be permitted until a comprehensive sign program is approved.
(3) 
No temporary signs shall be permitted until a comprehensive sign program is approved for the multi-tenant center.
(l) 
Signs in multi-tenant centers operating under a nonconforming master or common sign program. An application for a sign permit may be approved by the Director if it conforms to a master or common sign program adopted prior to the enactment of this article.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Single-family residential subdivisions of five (5) or more lots. Temporary signs may be permitted for single-family residential subdivisions with five (5) or more lots, subject to the following standards and conditions:
(1) 
Purpose. In allowing temporary off-site residential subdivision signs, the City Council finds a compelling interest in allowing off-site temporary signs for single-family residential subdivisions, subject to approval of a comprehensive sign program and permitting process, while not allowing similar opportunities for multifamily housing or other businesses for two (2) reasons. First, residential subdivisions are generally not located in commercial activity centers, thereby limiting the effectiveness of any on-site advertising tools. Second, most new subdivisions are, by their very nature, difficult to find due to their location in areas where streets and highways are newly constructed. New streets and highways may not appear on maps or global positioning systems available to persons seeking to purchase new homes. This makes off-site directional signs advertising of available homes necessary to allow potential buyers to find them.
(2) 
Comprehensive sign program required. Approval of a comprehensive sign program is required prior to the installation of any temporary subdivision signs. A sign location plan shall be prepared showing the site of all signs and submitted with the application. Subdivision signs shall not be located in the public right-of-way or on City-owned property.
(3) 
Phased subdivision maps. All phases of a single tentative map by a single subdivider shall be considered as a single subdivision.
(4) 
Sign permit required. A sign permit and any other required permits shall be obtained prior to the installation of temporary subdivision signs.
(5) 
Illumination. Temporary subdivision signs shall not be internally or externally illuminated.
(6) 
On-site temporary signs. On-site temporary subdivision signs may be permitted for residential subdivisions approved by the City of Turlock that are actively under construction and being marketed subject to the following standards:
(i) 
Subdivision allowance. One (1) principal subdivision sign no greater than one hundred twenty-eight (128) square feet, and up to five (5) secondary subdivision signs, each no greater than sixty (60) square feet in size, located at a street entrance to, or within, the subdivision, may be permitted for the subdivision.
(ii) 
Model home allowance. One (1) sign no greater than sixteen (16) square feet may be permitted for each model home.
(iii) 
Grand opening allowance. For a single ten (10) day grand opening period, additional on-site banners, flags, and additional temporary signs may be approved so long as they do not create a traffic safety hazard.
(iv) 
Flags. Flags and flagpoles may be allowed on site subject to the following standards:
(aa) 
Flags shall be mounted on flagpoles which conform to zoning requirements and requirements of the California Building Code.
(ab) 
Feather flags and other devices directly mounted to the ground on temporary supports shall not be permitted.
(ac) 
Flagpoles shall be located only along the external street frontages on the outermost boundary of the subdivision.
(ad) 
Flagpoles shall not exceed thirty (30') feet in height measured from the grade of the property.
(ae) 
No portion of the flag shall be less than eight (8') feet from the grade of the property, adjacent sidewalk or street, or path of travel, whichever is greater.
(af) 
Flags shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in size.
(ag) 
Any commercial message displayed on the surface of the flag shall be counted toward the sign area allowance for the principal or a secondary subdivision sign.
(ah) 
No more than eight (8) flags and flagpoles shall be permitted for each subdivision entrance plus one for each model home.
(ai) 
Flagpoles shall not be located within the public rights-of-way.
(aj) 
Flagpoles shall be located at least five (5') feet from any property line. The Director may require an additional setback to protect public health and safety.
(ak) 
Flags shall be made of durable, nonreflective material and shall not be illuminated.
(al) 
Flagpoles shall be immediately removed when the flags are no longer displayed.
(am) 
Flags/banners shall be removed or replaced when faded or tattered.
(v) 
Banners. Up to three (3) banners may be displayed on site on the walls or fences of the subdivision. Only one (1) banner per street frontage of the subdivision shall be permitted. Banners shall not exceed three (3') feet by twenty (20') feet in size and shall be counted toward the sign area allowance for the principal or a secondary subdivision sign.
(7) 
Off-site temporary subdivision signs. Off-site temporary signs may be permitted subject to the following standards:
(i) 
Off-site signs shall not be constructed on a property being used for residential purposes.
(ii) 
Signs shall identify and market a specific subdivision that has received its approvals from the City of Turlock.
(iii) 
The property owner of each property on which a sign is to be located shall provide written, notarized authorization for the sign permit application and shall be responsible for compliance with this article.
(iv) 
Signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet per side for a single subdivision, and fifty (50) square feet per side when more than one (1) subdivision is advertised on the same sign. Framing and other architectural elements surrounding the sign shall not be counted towards sign area if not specifically depicting advertising, direction and/or as determined by the Director to be noncommercial in nature.
(v) 
No more than one (1) off-site sales sign per street frontage may be placed on any parcel.
(vi) 
No more than four (4) off-site signs shall be allowed in the City limit for each subdivision.
(vii) 
Signs shall not exceed six (6') feet in height measured from the average grade of the parcel or the grade of the adjacent sidewalk or roadway, whichever is greater.
(viii) 
Signs shall be constructed of durable, nonreflective material and shall not be illuminated.
(ix) 
Signs shall be removed or replaced when damaged or in disrepair.
(x) 
Signs shall be located to maintain the setback requirements of the applicable zoning district for the parcel on which they are placed.
(xi) 
Signs shall not be located in the public rights-of-way or public easements.
(8) 
Erection and removal.
(i) 
No off-site subdivision sign shall be erected on a parcel until at least one (1) subdivision is advertised on the sign;
(ii) 
A subdivision name may be advertised on the sign only after all necessary governmental construction approvals have been given and all governmental filings and reports have been accomplished;
(iii) 
A subdivision name shall be removed from the sign within thirty (30) days of the sale of the final lot in the subdivision; and
(iv) 
The off-site subdivision signs shall be removed by the property owner if no subdivision name has been advertised on it for a period of ninety (90) days. The property owner shall be responsible for removal of the sign.
(9) 
All other directional or advertising signs are prohibited.
(b) 
Nonresidential uses. Temporary on-site advertising signs for commercial and industrial uses may be permitted subject to the following standards and conditions:
(1) 
Sign permit required. A temporary sign permit shall not be required for a temporary sign installed on the wall of a building not exceeding twelve (12) square feet in size subject to the standards and conditions in this section. However, the applicant shall be required to register the sign with the Planning Division as to size, materials, mounting method and duration. All other temporary signs shall be required to obtain the approval of a sign permit prior to installation.
(2) 
Temporary signs that shall not be permitted. No temporary sign permit shall be issued for a temporary sign requiring the issuance of any other permit from the City, including, but not limited to, building, electrical, plumbing, grading, and encroachment permit(s).
(3) 
Comprehensive sign program required for multi-tenant centers. No temporary sign permit shall be issued to an establishment in a multi-tenant center without first obtaining the approval of a comprehensive sign program, except a temporary sign installed for the initial opening of a business. The proposed temporary sign shall comply with the standards and conditions in the comprehensive sign program as well as the standards and conditions in this article.
(4) 
Time duration. The display period for temporary signs, including those requiring registration only, shall be limited to a maximum of ninety (90) days per calendar year, either consecutively or intermittently. An additional sixty (60) days shall be allowed for the initial opening of an establishment and such signs may be displayed before and/or after the initial opening of the establishment. If an establishment has failed to register a temporary sign, the display period for temporary signs for the establishment shall be limited to a maximum of thirty (30) days for the next twelve (12) month period.
(5) 
Illumination. Temporary signs shall not be internally or externally illuminated.
(6) 
Materials. Temporary signs shall be constructed of durable materials and shall be maintained in a clean and neat manner. Temporary signs shall be removed or replaced when faded or tattered.
(7) 
Location generally. Temporary signs shall be displayed on site where the use is operating. Off-site signage shall not be permitted. Projection over the public right-of-way shall not be permitted.
(8) 
Sign standards. Unless otherwise stated by the approved comprehensive sign program, the following limitations apply:
(i) 
Only one (1) temporary sign is permitted per establishment at any time.
(ii) 
The sign shall be mounted directly on the wall of the building in which the business operates unless approved by the Director.
(iii) 
The sign shall not project above the roof line of the building.
(iv) 
The sign shall not exceed seventy (70%) percent of the width of the sign frame or eighty-five (85%) percent of the height of the sign frame.
(v) 
The sign shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Sign design standards. All permanent on-site signs shall be subject to the design and development standards in this article.
(b) 
Sign allowances. The type, number, maximum sign area or sign band height, and sign band vertical distance shall conform to the following table based on the primary use classification for the establishment. The use classifications in this table correspond to the major categories shown in the use classification tables contained in Chapters 9-3 and 9-4 TMC, except that any nonresidential use located in the commercial office zoning district or the office residential or downtown core transition downtown overlay districts shall be considered an "office use." In residential zoning districts, the maximum sign allowance for a nonresidential use shall be the same as the allowance for a multifamily complex with thirty (30) or more units. For properties located in a mixed use zoning district or with a mix of uses, the Director shall determine which sign allowance(s) apply.
Use Classification
Sign Type
Development Standards
Maximum Number Permitted
Maximum Sign Area and/or Sign Band Height
Maximum Sign Band Vertical Distance
Residential Uses
Home occupation
Wall sign
1 sign per lot
1 square foot (s.f.)
6 feet
Family day care
Wall sign
1 sign per lot
1 s.f.
6 feet
Group homes or quarters (7 to 12 people)
Wall sign
1 sign per lot
1 s.f.
6 feet
Group homes or quarters (>12 people)
Wall sign
1 sign per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
6 s.f.
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
12 s.f. per side
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet
4 feet
Multifamily complex, 0-4 units
Wall sign
1 sign per complex
6 s.f.
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Multifamily complex, 5-29 units
Wall sign
1 sign of either type per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
12 s.f.
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument
12 s.f. per side
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet
4 feet
Multifamily complex, ≥30 units
Wall sign
1 sign per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
24 s.f.
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
15 s.f. per side Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
6 feet
Mobile home parks
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
12 s.f. per side
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
4 feet
Subdivision identification sign (20 or more lots)
Monument sign
2 signs per street frontage, maximum of 4 signs per subdivision
32 s.f. (signs shall be one-sided only)
6 feet
Public and Semi-Public Uses
Maximum sign area is 0.75 s.f. for each foot of building frontage for individual letters, or 0.5 s.f. when individual letters are not used, subject to the following limitations:
Public buildings, and other institutions
Wall sign, primary building
1 primary sign per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, additional buildings
1 primary sign
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
24 s.f. per side (not counted toward maximum sign area)
4 feet
Parks
Wall sign
1 primary sign per building, nonilluminated
Maximum height of sign band is 2 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage, externally illuminated only
24 s.f. per side (not counted toward maximum sign area)
4 feet
Office Uses
Maximum sign area is 0.75 s.f. for each foot of building frontage for individual letters, or 0.5 s.f. when individual letters are not used, subject to the following limitations:
Standalone office establishments
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 3 signs
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage
24 s.f. per side (not counted toward maximum sign area)
4 feet
Office establishments in a sign district
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Office sign district
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage, 1 additional sign for every 350 feet above 700 feet of street frontage when spaced at least 350 feet apart (subject to Planning Commission approval)
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
6 feet
Commercial Uses
Maximum sign area is 1.25 s.f. for each foot of building frontage for individual letters, or 1.0 s.f. when individual letters are not used, subject to the following limitations:
Retail establishments 100,000 s.f. or more, standalone or in a sign district
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 3 signs
Maximum sign band height is 6 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall signs, secondary
4 signs
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet and width of each sign shall not exceed 10% of building frontage
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument signs
1 sign per street frontage
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
8 feet
Standalone retail establishments 25,000 s.f. or more and less than 100,000 s.f.
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 3 signs
Maximum sign band height is 5 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, secondary
2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet and width of each sign shall not exceed 10% of building frontage
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument signs
1 sign per street frontage
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
6 feet
Standalone retail establishments less than 25,000 s.f.
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument signs
1 sign per street frontage
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
4 feet
Retail establishments less than 100,000 s.f. in a sign district
Wall sign, tenant>25,000 s.f. and <100,000 s.f.
1 primary sign per building frontage, maximum of 3 signs
Maximum sign band height is 5 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
2 secondary signs
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet and width of each sign shall not exceed 10% of building frontage
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, tenant
>10,000 s.f. and <25,000 s.f.
1 primary sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 4 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, tenant
>6,000 s.f. and <10,000 s.f.
1 primary sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band letter height is 3 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, tenant
>2,500 s.f. and <6,000 s.f.
1 primary sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 2.5 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, tenant
<2,500 s.f.
1 primary sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 2 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Retail establishments on a pad site in a sign district
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 3 signs
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
1 sign
12 s.f. per side (not counted toward maximum sign area)
4 feet
Retail sign district
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage, 1 additional sign for every 350 feet above 700 feet of street frontage when spaced at least 350 feet apart (subject to Planning Commission approval)
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
8 feet
Retail sign district of 20 acres or more in size with at least 1,000 feet of freeway frontage
Pylon sign
1 sign per freeway frontage, additional signs for each 1,000 feet of freeway frontage of the Sign District (subject to Planning Commission approval)
Subject to Planning Commission approval
85 feet above the grade of the parcel
Drive-through restaurants
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum of 3 signs of either type per street frontage
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, secondary
2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 1.5 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
1 per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
12 s.f. per side (not counted toward maximum sign area)
4 feet
Drive-through lane boards
2 per lane, maximum of 4 signs
32 s.f.
6 feet
Automobile service stations
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum of 3 signs of either type per street frontage
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Wall sign, secondary
2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 1.5 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument (including price signs)
1 double-faced sign per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
24 s.f. per side (not counted toward maximum sign area)
6 feet
Island canopy sign
1 per street frontage, maximum of 2 signs
15 s.f.; maximum sign band height is 2 feet
May not exceed 80% of height of the canopy fascia or 20% of the total width of the canopy
Pump-topper signs
1 double-faced sign per fuel pump, motionless and nonilluminated
12" x 20" (not counted toward maximum sign area)
1 foot above the top of the pump on which it is attached
Industrial Uses
Maximum sign area is 1.25 s.f. for each foot of building frontage for individual letters, or 1.0 s.f. when individual letters are not used, subject to the following limitations:
Industrial establishments 100,000 s.f. or more, standalone or in a sign district
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 3 signs
Maximum sign band height is 8 feet; maximum sign area is 300 s.f.
Height of the outer wall
Wall sign, secondary
4 signs
Maximum sign band height is 4 feet; maximum sign band area is 150 s.f.
Height of the outer wall
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage; 1 additional sign for every 350 feet above 700 feet of street frontage when spaced at least 350 feet apart
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
6 feet
Standalone industrial establishments less than 100,000 s.f.
Wall sign
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 3 feet; maximum sign area is 150 s.f.
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Monument sign
1 sign per street frontage
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
4 feet
Industrial establishments less than 100,000 s.f. in a sign district
Wall sign, primary
1 sign per building frontage, maximum of 2 signs
Maximum sign band height is 2.5 feet
Height of the outer wall or 20 feet, whichever is less
Standalone industrial establishment 100,000 s.f. or more, on 20 acres or more, with at least 1,000 feet of freeway frontage
Freeway-oriented pylon sign
1 sign
100 s.f. and no greater than 50 s.f. per side (not counted toward maximum sign area)
35 feet above the lowest grade of the abutting freeway and no taller than 85 feet above the grade of the parcel
Industrial sign district
Monument sign
1 sign; 1 additional sign for every 350 feet above 700 feet of street frontage when spaced at least 350 feet apart (subject to Planning Commission approval)
Use table in subsection (b)(2) of this section (not counted toward maximum sign area)
10 feet
Industrial sign district 20 acres or more in size with at least 1,000 feet of freeway frontage
Freeway-oriented pylon sign
1 sign per freeway frontage, additional signs for each 1,000 feet of freeway frontage of the Sign District (subject to Planning Commission approval)
Subject to Planning Commission approval
50 feet above the lowest grade of the abutting freeway and no taller than 85 feet above the grade of the parcel
(1) 
Sign area exception for wall signs. Any primary wall sign permitted for a commercial or industrial use may be permitted a sign band of up to two (2') feet in height, regardless of the maximum sign area calculated for the establishment, so long as the sign does not exceed seventy (70%) percent of the width and eighty-five (85%) percent of the height of the sign frame.
(2) 
Sign area for monument signs.
(i) 
Monument signs shall not be included in the calculation of maximum sign area for any establishment.
(ii) 
The maximum sign area applies to each side of a monument sign. Monument signs shall have no more than two (2) sides. The maximum sign area for monument signs referencing the table in subsection (b) of this section (Sign allowances) shall be based on the length of the street frontage of the lot or multi-tenant center as follows:
Street Frontage
Maximum Sign Area
50 feet or less
12 square feet
More than 50 feet to 150 feet
24 square feet
More than 150 feet to 250 feet
36 square feet
More than 250 feet to 350 feet
50 square feet
More than 350 feet
15% of the street frontage of the property or multi-tenant center (length of street frontage x 0.15) up to a maximum of 150 square feet per monument sign
(3) 
Signs that may be used in lieu of a wall sign. Commercial flags, and awning, canopy and projecting signs, may be used in lieu of wall signs and shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for the establishment. Any portion of a directional sign or drive-through lane board sign that displays a commercial message shall be counted toward the maximum sign area for the establishment.
(4) 
Directional, informational, and directory signs. Directional, informational and directory signs may be permitted by the Director for any multifamily, commercial or industrial development upon making the following findings:
(i) 
The signs are necessary to protect the public safety and welfare;
(ii) 
The signs are the minimum size and number necessary to perform the required function; and
(iii) 
The maximum sign area for the establishment is not exceeded.
(5) 
Conversion of pad sites into multiple suites. When a pad site is subdivided into two (2) or more suites, and a monument sign would not have otherwise been permitted for a multi-tenant building under the comprehensive sign program, only one (1) of the tenants shall be permitted to advertise on the monument sign.
(6) 
Special uses.
(i) 
Automobile service stations. Signs for automobile service stations shall meet the following standards:
(aa) 
Price sign advertising shall comply with California Business and Professions Code Section 13530 et seq.
(ab) 
Only one (1) pump-topper sign mounted to the top of each fuel pump may be permitted.
(ac) 
Pump-topper signs shall be nonilluminated and motionless.
(ad) 
Price signs may utilize a programmable electronic sign.
(ae) 
Price signs shall not change more than twice per day.
(ii) 
Entertainment uses, special event centers, churches, sports complexes, and other similar uses. Certain uses such as live performance theaters, movie theaters, special event centers, churches, sports complexes, and the like have a need to advertise special events to the general public that change frequently. The events are scheduled in advance and typically occur over a limited period of time. Changeable copy as well as additional wall and marquee signs may be authorized for these uses by the Planning Commission upon approval of a comprehensive sign program.
(iii) 
Vehicle retail sales establishments. The building footprint occupied by vehicle retail sales establishments typically occupies a smaller portion of the property relative to the outdoor display area. This limits the amount of space available for the display of a commercial message compared with other businesses that display products inside a building. The purpose of establishing a banner program for vehicle retail sales establishments located in commercial zones is to recognize the distinctive requirements of this form of retail and to foster a unified image for vehicle sales lots throughout the City. A uniform banner program offers these special uses better ability to advertise and strengthens the collective impact of display and advertising in a manner that is attractive, safe, and enhances the streetscape and the economic well-being of the City.
(aa) 
Banner defined. For the purposes of this subsection, "banner" shall mean a nonpermanent sign, made of durable fabric, fastened from the top and bottom to a ground-mounted pole or similar structure on private property. Banners shall not be fastened to any landscaping/tree, fence or retaining wall.
(ab) 
Banner permits and standards. The Director may approve a permit for a banner program in accordance with the regulations and criteria set forth in this section and may impose such other reasonable conditions as may be deemed necessary in the public interest. The following regulatory standards are required conditions for any banner program:
1. 
Each property may display a maximum of one (1) "large banner" for every thirty (30) lineal feet of street frontage. Each property may display a maximum of one (1) "small banner" for every four hundred (400) square feet of parking and auto display area.
2. 
Each "large banner" shall be a minimum of sixteen (16) square feet and a maximum of twenty-eight (28) square feet. Each "small banner" shall be a minimum of eight (8) square feet and a maximum of sixteen (16) square feet. All banners of the same type on a property shall be the same size.
3. 
Large banners shall be located within ten (10') feet of the front or corner side property line.
4. 
No banner shall project over or into the public right-of-way.
5. 
No banner shall be closer than ten (10') feet to another banner.
6. 
The bottom of the banner shall be at least eight (8') feet and not more than twelve (12') feet above the surface below.
7. 
All decorative banners located on a property shall be of the same height and share a compatible design.
8. 
Banners shall be constructed of durable fabric intended for outdoor use. Nonfading inks shall be used on banners.
(ac) 
Other advertising signs. Vehicle retail sales establishments may establish a banner program in addition to temporary signs permitted for a retail establishment of the same size and characteristics. Temporary signs shall be subject to the standards established for nonresidential uses pursuant to TMC 9-2-517(b) (Temporary signs – Nonresidential uses).
(iv) 
Commercial cannabis uses. Signs for commercial cannabis businesses shall meet the following standards; if these standards conflict with other sections of this code or with a comprehensive sign program the following standards shall supersede:
(aa) 
Only cannabis businesses legally permitted to operate within the City of Turlock can advertise in City limits.
(ab) 
Off-site signs are prohibited.
(ac) 
All cannabis business operations within the City are limited to one (1) on-site wall sign, not to exceed a maximum sign band height of two and one-half (2.5') feet and a maximum sign area of twenty-five (25) square feet. The sign may only display the business's name, logogram, address, hours of operation, and contact information. If the business is located in a multi-tenant center with a multi-tenant monument sign, one (1) sign space per monument sign is permitted. Standalone monument signs are prohibited.
(ad) 
In addition to the prohibited signs described in TMC 9-2-513 the following signs listed are inconsistent with the purposes and requirements of this article and as such are prohibited:
1. 
Temporary signs.
2. 
Window signs.
(ae) 
No sign shall contain the use of objects, such as toys, inflatables, movie characters, cartoon characters, or include any other display, depiction, or image designed in any manner likely to be appealing to minors or anyone under twenty-one (21) years of age.
(af) 
No sign shall contain a display, depiction, or image of a cannabis leaf or cannabis plant.
(ag) 
No sign shall contain a display, depiction, or image of any cannabis accessory or device used to consume cannabis.
(ah) 
Any signs located on the property of any cannabis business that do not conform with these regulations shall be removed by the business within thirty (30) days of the date written notice is provided by the City regarding the violation.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017; 1278-CS, Amended, 05/12/2020)
(a) 
Maintenance of signs. All signs shall be kept in a good state of repair and preservation in accordance with TMC 9-2-511(d) (General development standards – Maintenance standards). The Director may declare any sign not meeting these standards as "abandoned" and the sign shall be abated in accordance with the procedures for abandoned signs. In these cases, the Director shall provide a thirty (30) day written notice to both the property owner and the establishment to repair or replace the sign prior to initiating an enforcement action in accordance with TMC 9-2-507(b) (Enforcement).
(b) 
Abandoned signs.
(1) 
Definition. A sign or sign structure shall be considered abandoned under the following circumstances:
(i) 
The sign advertises an activity, business, product, or service that has not been conducted for a period of six (6) months or longer.
(ii) 
The sign frames, sign panels, structural members, or supporting poles have not been used to advertise an activity, business, product, or service conducted on the property for a period of six (6) months or longer.
(iii) 
The sign, sign frames, sign panels, structural members, or supporting poles are excessively weathered, or structurally unsound.
(iv) 
The sign copy can no longer be seen or understood by a person with normal eyesight under normal viewing conditions.
(2) 
Removal required. Abandoned signs shall be removed unless a time extension has been granted by the Director. Removal of the sign shall be the responsibility of the property owner and shall be removed at the property owner's expense.
(i) 
Time extension permit application. The Director may approve a time extension permit to extend the amount of time an abandoned sign may remain as follows:
(aa) 
The application must be submitted in a timely manner.
(ab) 
The property owner must submit reasonable evidence that the sign will be used for a new tenant or property owner, or for the arrival of a new product line for an existing tenant.
(ac) 
The Director may require the property owner, as a condition of approving the time extension, to remove some or all of the elements of the sign such that the remaining sign(s) or sign structure is neat and unobtrusive in appearance and in harmony with the structure to which it is attached.
(ii) 
Schedule. The time extension permit shall include a schedule for the actions the property owner must take to allow the abandoned sign to remain.
(iii) 
Findings for approval. The Director may approve a time extension upon determining there is a reasonable expectation of the sign's continued use and the time extension does not adversely impact other uses on the property, adjacent properties, or the public.
(iv) 
Completion of permit conditions. All conditions identified in the time extension permit shall be completed within the time frames specified in the time extension permit.
(3) 
Failure to comply. The Director shall give written notice to the property owner and the establishment allowing thirty (30) days to remove the sign or comply with the conditions of the time extension permit. Upon failure to comply within the thirty (30) day period, the Director may initiate an enforcement action in accordance with TMC 9-2-507(b) (Enforcement).
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
Any nonconforming sign that has been abandoned for a period of six (6) months or longer shall be removed within thirty (30) days of receiving a notice from the Director. Upon failure to comply with the notice, the Director may initiate an enforcement action in accordance with TMC 9-2-507(b) (Enforcement).
(b) 
A nonconforming sign shall not be replaced, reconstructed, relocated, or expanded in any manner unless and until the affected element(s) of the sign are made to conform to the provisions of this article. Structural alterations to a nonconforming sign shall be prohibited, except to make the sign conforming. Ordinary maintenance and minor repairs which do not increase the normal life of the sign and which are required for safety purposes will be permitted.
(c) 
Nonconforming master and common sign programs.
(1) 
Master and common sign programs adopted prior to the enactment of this article shall be considered conforming and shall have the same regulatory status as a comprehensive sign program. The geographic area defined by the parcel(s) included in the master or common sign program shall be considered a "sign district" for the purposes of this article.
(2) 
Any amendments to a previously approved master or common sign program shall require the approval by the Planning Commission subject to the same standards and procedures as a comprehensive sign program, and shall comply with this article to the maximum extent feasible.
(3) 
An existing sign permitted under the previously approved master or common sign program shall be considered conforming and may be replaced or reconstructed in accordance with the previously approved master or common sign program.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
Temporary signs posted or erected in the public right-of-way or on private property in violation of this article may be immediately removed in accordance with this section.
(a) 
City employees are authorized to remove such temporary signs. Removed signs shall be taken to the corporation yard. After removal, the employee shall attempt to notify the owner of the sign or other responsible party. In cases where a sign contains the name of a printing firm, the employee shall also attempt to notify the printing firm that the sign has been removed, the location of the sign, the procedure for retrieving the sign, and the procedure for challenging the removal of the sign.
(b) 
Any person desiring to retrieve a sign removed by the City may do so upon the payment of fines and fees accumulated by the City pursuant to Chapter 2-11 TMC (Administrative Citations), Chapter 4-16 TMC (Cost Recovery), and/or Chapter 5-5 TMC (Nuisance Abatement).
(c) 
Any temporary sign removed by the City that is not retrieved within fifteen (15) calendar days after the date of its removal may be disposed of by the City without liability to any person. The cost of its removal shall be paid by the owner of the property upon which the sign is located and, if necessary, made a lien on the property.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)
(a) 
If the Director finds that any sign regulated by this article is unsafe or insecure; is a menace to the public; is in a dilapidated, decayed, or neglected state; or has been constructed, erected or maintained in violation of the provisions of this article, the Director shall give written notice to the property owner and the establishment to immediately correct the unsafe or unlawful condition. If the sign is not removed or altered to comply with the Director's notice, the sign shall be immediately removed and the cost of such removal shall be paid by the owner of the property upon which the sign is located and, if necessary, made a lien on the property.
(b) 
Any sign found to be unsafe and to be an immediate peril to persons or property may be removed summarily and without notice by the Director. The cost of its removal shall be paid by the owner of the property upon which the sign is located and, if necessary, made a lien on the property.
(1237-CS, Rep&ReEn, 12/28/2017)