CHAPTER 3.05 SIGN REGULATIONS

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Purpose.

This Chapter has been adopted to ensure that all signs installed in the city are compatible with the unique character and environment of the community and in compliance with the General Plan. This Chapter promotes the public health, safety, and welfare through a comprehensive system of reasonable, effective, consistent, content neutral, and nondiscriminatory sign standards and requirements.

More specifically, this Chapter is intended to:

Ensure that all signs are compatible with the unique character and environment of the city, and that they support the desired ambience and development patterns of the various zones within the city; and

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

Ensure pedestrian and traffic safety by promoting the free flow of traffic and the protection of pedestrians and motorists from injury and property damage caused by, or which may be fully or partially attributable to, cluttered, distracting, and/or illegible signage; and

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

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

Provide consistent sign design standards that enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations.

Applicability.

This Chapter applies to all signs within the City regardless of their nature or location, unless otherwise specifically exempted in Subsection D (Exemptions).

Standards for permanent signs are found in Section 3.05.05 (Standards for Permanent Signs).

Standards for portable and temporary signs are found in Section 3.05.07 (Standards for Portable and Temporary Signs).

Standards for signs proposed within the boundaries of the City of Indio Downtown Specific Plan[1] are subject to the sign standards established in Section 3.11 (Signs) of the Downtown Specific Plan.

[1]Editor’s Note: The Downtown Specific Plan, referred to in this title is not printed herein, but is on file with the city.

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

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

Substitutions and Interpretations.

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

Where there is any question regarding the interpretation of a provision of this Chapter, or its application to any specific case or situtation, the Director shall interpret the intent of this Chapter.

Exemptions.

The following are not regulated under this Chapter and do not require a Sign Permit:

Building identification signs not exceeding two square feet in area for residential buildings and four-square feet in area for non-residential buildings;

Any sign, posting, notice or similar signs placed, installed, or required by law by a city, county, or a federal or state governmental agency in carrying out its responsibility to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, including the following:

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

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

Traffic signs erected and maintained by an authorized public agency;

Signs required to be displayed by any applicable federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance;

Signs directing the public to points of interest; and

Signs showing the location of public facilities.

Incidential signs not to exceed an aggregate of three-square feet in sign area in all single-family residential zones and six square feet in all other zones;

Landmark signs;

Signs not readable from the public right-of-way, including:

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

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

Certain Historic and Architectural Features. Historical plaques erected and maintained by non-profit organizations, memorials, building cornerstones, and date-constructed stones not exceeding four square feet in area.

§ 3.05.02 Administration and Procedures.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

The procedures for submittal, review, and approval for all signs are provided in Chapter 6.04 (Permits and Approvals).

Sign Permits - Permanent Signs.

The procedures for the submittal, review, and approval of permanent signs are provided in Section 3.05.09B (Sign Permits - Permanent Signs).

Sign Permits - Temporary Signs.

The procedures for the submittal, review, and approval of temporary signs are provided in Section 3.05.09C (Sign Permits - Temporary Signs).

Sign Permits - Master Sign Plans.

The procedures for the submittal, review, and approval of master sign plans are provided in Section 3.05.09D (Sign Permits - Master Sign Plans).

§ 3.05.03 General Restrictions for All Signs.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Location Restrictions.

Except where specifically authorized in this Chapter, signs must not be placed in the following locations or manner:

Within, on, or projecting over public property including City rights-of-way, except as specifically provided in this Chapter;

Any sign attached to any public utility pole, structure or streetlight, tree, fence, fire hydrant, bridge, curb, sidewalk, park bench, statue, memorial, or other location on public property, except those signs approved as part of a special event permit on City property or banner signs permitted by the City on light poles within the City;

Tacked, painted, pasted, or otherwise affixed, to the walls of any building, barn or shed, accessory structure, or on trees, poles, posts, fences, ladders, or other structures that are visible from a public way;

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

Any sign which is placed in a manner that would prevent or inhibit free ingress to or egress from any door, window, vent, or any exit way required by the Building Code, or by Fire Department regulations (currently in effect);

Off-the-premises to which the sign refers, except as provided in Section 3.05.07 (Standards for Portable and Temporary Signs);

Mounted, attached, or painted on a trailer, boat, or motor vehicle when parked, stored, or displayed conspicuously on private premises in a manner intended to attract attention of the public for the purpose of advertising or identifying the business premises unless such vehicles are purposefully incorporated into the design of the sign and the sign has either been issued a permit by the Director or is non-conforming. Vehicles must be operable and parked in a lawful or authorized manner. This provision excludes signs indicating the name of the owner or business that are permanently painted or wrapped on the surface of the vehicle, adhesive vinyl film affixed to the interior or exterior surface of a vehicle window, or signs magnetically attached to motor vehicles or rolling stock that are actively used in the daily conduct of the business;

Painted, attached, or mounted on fuel tanks, storage containers, solid waste receptacles or their enclosures, and similar structures, except for a manufacturer's or installer's identification, appropriate warning signs and placards, and information required by law;

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

10.

Within the site visibility triangle (Refer to Section 3.02.06 (Visibility Area)) that must be observed at all in street intersections and the intersections of dedicated alleys or driveways with streets.

Display Restrictions.

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

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

Any sign with an exposed light source, except for neon incorporated into the design of the sign;

Any sign which uses florescent colors;

Any sign which emits sound, odor, smoke, laser or hologram lights, or other visible matter, including any sign that uses motion picture projection;

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

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

Strings of lights arranged in the shape of a product, arrow, or any commercial message.

Prohibited Sign Types.

Bandit signs;

Billboard signs;

Stuffed or inflated animals or characters used as signs;

Any sign which advertises a business no longer in existence or a product or service no longer being sold, except as provided in Section 3.05.08F.2 (Removal or Replacement of a Nonconforming Sign) and landmark signs; and

Any signs not specifically allowed in this Chapter.

§ 3.05.04 General Requirements for All Signs.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Sign Message.

Any permitted sign may contain, in lieu of any other message or copy, any lawful non-commercial message, so long as the sign complies with the size, height, area, location, and other requirements of this Chapter.

Rules of Measurement.

Sign Area Measurement.

Sign area is measured as follows:

Signs on Background Panel.

Where the sign copy is mounted, affixed, or painted on a background panel or distinctively painted, textured, or constructed surface, the sign area is measured as the sum of the smallest rectangle(s) that will enclose both the sign copy and the background, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-1.

FIGURE 3.05.04-1. Signs on Background Panel

Signs with Individual Letters.

Where the sign has individual letters or graphics mounted against a wall, fascia, mansard, parapet, or other building surface that has not been distinctively painted, textured or constructed as a background panel, the sign area is measured as a sum of the smallest rectangle(s) that will enclose each word and each graphic in the total sign except for the descending elements of lower case letters, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-2. As an incentive to encourage the use of individual letters in a sign, sign area for individual letters or graphics will be counted as 75 percent of the area enclosing the sign copy so that a larger sign area may be permitted.

FIGURE 3.05.04-2. Signs with Individual Letters

Signs on Illuminated Surfaces.

Where the sign is mounted, affixed, or painted on an illuminated surface or illuminated element of a building or structure, the sign area is measured as the entire illuminated surface or illuminated element, which contains sign copy, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-3

FIGURE 3.05.04-3. Signs on Illuminated Surfaces

Irregular Shaped Signs.

Sign area for irregular shaped signs is determined by dividing the sign into squares, rectangles, triangles, circles, or arcs as shown in Figure 3.05.04-4.

FIGURE 3.05.04-4. Irregular Shaped Signs

Multi-Face Signs.

The sign area for multi-face signs, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-5 are measured as follows:

Two-Face Signs.

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

ii.

Three- or Four-Face Signs.

The allowable sign area is measured as 50% of the sum of the areas of all sign faces.

FIGURE 3.05.04-5. Multi-Face Signs

iii.

Spherical, Free-Form, or Sculptural Signs.

The sign area is measured by encasing the longest portion of the sign with four dimensionally equal lines, and the shortest portion of the sign with at least two dimensionally equal lines to form a cuboid. The sign area is 50% of the sum of the areas between the longest four dimensionally equal lines encompassing the cuboid, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-6.

FIGURE 3.05.04-6. Spherical, Free-form, or Sculptural Signs

Sign Height Measurement.

Freestanding Signs.

Sign height for freestanding signs is measured as the vertical distance from the finished grade to the top of the sign, exclusive of any filling, berming, mounding or landscaping solely for the purpose of locating the sign as shown in Figure 3.05.04-7, excluding decorative embellishments as permitted by the provisions of this Section.

FIGURE 3.05.04-7. Freestanding Sign Height

Higher Than Adjacent Grade.

Where the natural grade at the base of a sign is higher than the grade of the adjacent road, sign height is measured from the base of the sign, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-8.

FIGURE 3.05.04-8. Freestanding Sign Height, Higher than Adjacent Grade

ii.

Lower Than Adjacent Grade.

Where the natural grade at the base of a sign is lower than the grade of an adjacent road, the height of the sign is measured from the top of curb elevation, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-9.

FIGURE 3.05.04-9. Freestanding Sign Height, Lower than Adjacent Grade

Wall Signs.

The height of building-mounted signs is the vertical distance measured from the base of the wall on which the sign is located to the top of the sign or sign structure, as shown in Figure 3.05.04-10.

FIGURE 3.05.04-10. Wall Sign Height

Sign Illumination.

Internal Illumination.

Internally illuminated signs include cabinet signs, single- or two-color LED signs, signs constructed with pan channel letters, or indirect halo illuminated channel letters on an unlit or otherwise indistinguishable background on a freestanding sign or building wall.

To minimize glare, internally illuminated signs such as cabinet signs must either be constructed with an opaque background and translucent text and symbols, or with a colored (not white, off-white, light gray, or cream) background and generally lighter text and symbols as shown in Figure 3.05.04-11.

FIGURE 3.05.04-11. Internal Illumination
Light Background Not Allowed	Colored Background Allowed	Opaque Background Allowed
RESTAURANT CAFE	GAS STATION	HOTEL

Internally illuminated cabinet signs may be used only for non-residential uses in the Residential zones and in the Non-Residential and Public/Institutional zones (Refer to Chapter 2.02 (Residential Zones), Chapter 2.03 (Mixed-Use Zones), and Chapter 2.04 (Non-Residential Zones)) provided the illumination intensity does not exceed 0.5 footcandles at the property line. Internally illuminated cabinet signs are not allowed in any of the Mixed-Use zones.

External Illumination.

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

The light source for externally illuminated signs must be arranged and shielded to substantially confine all direct light rays onto the sign face and away from streets and adjacent properties as illustrated in Figure 3.05.04-12.

FIGURE 3.05.04-12. External Illumination

Neon.

Exposed neon sign lighting on permanent signs and single-color or two-color LED signs are only allowed in Mixed-Use and Non-Residential zones (Refer to Chapter 2.02 and Chapter 2.03).

Neon signs placed in a window are counted toward the total aggregate area for all window signs (Refer to Table 3.05.05-13 (Standards for Window Signs)).

Single-Color or Two-Color LED Signs.

Single-color or two-color LED signs are exempt from the sign area limitations for wall signs and window signs established in Table 3.05.05-12 (Standards for Wall Signs) and Table 3.05.05-13 (Standards for Window Signs).

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

Electronic Message Signs.

One electronic message sign may be allowed subject to approval of an Administrative Conditional Use Permit (Refer to Section 6.04.04 (Use Permits)) as an integral component of a freestanding or wall sign (Refer to Table 3.05.05-12 (Standards for Wall Signs) and Table 3.05.05-17 (Standards for Monument Signs)) per lot or parcel in Mixed-Use and Non-Residential zones and for mixed-use and non-residential uses in all zones. The Director may require Planning Commission approval of the Administrative Conditional Use Permit if, in the Director's opinion, there are special or unusual circumstances associated with the application for the electronic message sign.

Electronic message signs must not flash, blink, flutter, include intermittent or chasing lights, or display video messages (i.e., any illumination or message that is in motion or appears to be in motion). Electronic message signs may display changing messages provided that each message is displayed for no less than 15 seconds.

Night-Time Brightness.

Automatic Control.

Electronic message signs must be equipped with photocell technology to control and vary the intensity of light output depending on the amount of ambient light that is present to prevent overly bright luminance at night. Automatic controls must limit night luminance to a maximum of 100 nits when the display is set to show maximum brightness in 100% full white mode.

ii.

Manufacturer Certification.

The applicant shall include with the Building Permit application a written certification from the sign manufacturer that the nighttime luminance has been factory pre-set not to exceed 100 nits as described in Subsection c.i, above, and that this setting is protected from end-user modification by password-protected software or other method as deemed appropriate by the Building Official.

Electronic message signs must be set to a maximum lighting intensity of 0.6 candela (footcandles) over ambient light levels as measured using a footcandle meter placed 100 feet from the sign. Each sign shall have a redundant system for controlling sign brightness, including an automatic light sensing device or photocell that will adjust the brightness as ambient light conditions change, and a backup system based on local sunrise and sunset times.

Sign Structure and Installation.

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

Engineer.

If the desired freestanding sign is more than 12 feet from grade to the bottom of the sign or is more than 100 square feet in one single face, it shall be reviewed and sealed by a licensed engineer.

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

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

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

Raceway cabinets, as illustrated in Figure 3.05.04-13, must only be used in building mounted signs when access to the wall behind the sign is not feasible, or when the Director determines that a benefit exists to preserve a historic or architectural feature of a building. In such cases, the raceway cabinet must not extend in width and height beyond the area of the sign and must match the color of the building to which it is attached. Where a raceway cabinet provides a contrast background to sign copy, the colored area is counted in the total allowable sign area allowed for the site or business.

FIGURE 3.05.04-13. Raceway Cabinet

Sign Maintenance.

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

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

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

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

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

Any owner of a sign victimized by graffiti shall remove, repair, or repaint sign(s) within 10 days of the graffiti being applied or within 10 days of notification by the Director, whichever event comes first.

§ 3.05.05 Standards for Permanent Signs.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Applicability.

This Section establishes the standards for permanent signs.

Table 3.05.05-1 (Allowed Sign Types by Zone) establishes which sign types are allowed in each zone. Any combination of allowed sign types may be used within a given zone unless specifically prohibited. The zones listed in Table 3.05.05-1 (Allowed Sign Types by Zone) are consistent with the land use types established in the General Plan.

Table 3.05.05-2 (Dimensional Standards for Permanent Signs) establishes standards for building-mounted and freestanding signs based on the uses allowed within a specific zone(s). Tables 3.05.05-3 through 3.05.05-18 provide the standards and supporting illustrations for each of the allowed sign types.

A sign type not specifically included in this Section may be allowed by the Director provided the sign meets the intent of the zone in which it is proposed. The Director may refer a decision on a sign type to the Planning Commission if the Director finds the public interest would be better served by having the Planning Commission act as the decision-maker.

A permanent freestanding sign is only allowed on a panel on which a primary use or building has been established.

TABLE 3.05.05-1: Allowed Sign Types by Zone
Sign Type	Single-family Residential Zones	Multi-family Residential Zones	Mixed-Use Zones	Commercial Zone	Industrial Zones	Public and Institutional Zones
Sign Type	DE-1, DET-3, SN-4, SN-8, and RLCI Zones	MH, CN-14, and CN-20 Zones	MUN-40, NC-20, MT-40, and DT SP Zones	RC Zone	IL, IH, RR Zones	PI Zone	OS Zone
• = Allowed; — Not Allowed
Building Mounted Signs
Awning Sign	—	—	•	•	•	•	—
Blade Sign	—	—	•	•	•	—	—
Canopy Sign	—	—	•	•	•	—	—
Directional Sign	—	•	•	•	•	•
Directory Sign	—	•	•	•	•	•	—
Marquee Sign	—	—	•	•	—	—	—
Roof-Mounted Sign	—	—	•	•	•	—	—
Service Island Canopy Sign	—	—	•	•	•	—	—
Vertical Projecting Sign	—	—	•	•	•	—	—
Wall Sign	—	—	•	•	•	•	•
Window Sign	—	—	•	•	•	•	—
Freestanding Signs
Directional Sign	—	•	•	•	•	—	•
Directory Sign	—	•	•	•	—	—	•
Front Yard Sign	•	•	•	—	—	—	—
Monument Sign	•	•	•	•	•	•	•
Post Sign	•	•	•	•	•	•	•

Standards for Permanent Building-Mounted and Freestanding Signs.

The maximum total area for all building-mounted and freestanding signs is established in Table 3.05.05-2 (Dimensional Standards for Permanent Signs).

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

All permanent building-mounted and freestanding signs must comply with the corresponding sign type standards provided in Tables 3.05.05-3 to Table 3.05.05-18.

TABLE 3.05.05-2: Dimensional Standards for Permanent Signs
Standard
"ft" = Feet; "lf" = Linear Feet; and "sf" = Square Feet
Single-family Residential Uses
Applies to single-family residential (attached and detached), two-family/duplex, and tri-/quadplex uses in Residential and Mixed-Use zones.
Building Mounted Sign
Max. Sign Area			3 sf
Max. Sign Height			8 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 per parcel
Illumination			Non-illuminated
Freestanding Sign
Max. Sign Area			Front yard sign - 4 sf For permitted non-residential uses and subdivisions: Monument sign - Max. 32 sf or Post sign - Max. 16 sf
Max. Sign Height			4 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 per parcel
Illumination			Non-illuminated
Multi-family Residential Uses
Applies to multi-family residential uses in Residential and Mixed-Use zones.
Building Mounted Sign
Max. Sign Area			For multi-family residential uses with 5 dwelling units or more, 1 building mounted sign allowed max. sign area of 40 sf
Max. Sign Height			10 ft
Illumination			Non-illuminated or internal illumination
Other Requirements			Building mounted or freestanding directory signs, max. 5 sf; no limit on the number of signs.
Freestanding Signs - Monument and Post Sign (Only allowed in lieu of Building Mounted Signs)
Max. Sign Area			Monument sign — 32 sf or Post sign — 16 sf
Max. Sign Height			5 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 sign per street frontage; Max. 2 signs
Illumination			Non-illuminated or internal illumination
Other Requirements			2 sf of landscape area placed at the base of the sign for 1 sf of sign area
Mobile Home and RV Park
Applies to all mobile home and recreational vehicle parks in Residential and Mixed-Use zones.
Building Mounted Sign
Max. Sign Area			32 sf in residential and mixed-use zones 50 sf in commercial zones
Max. Sign Height			Plate line
Max. Number of Signs			1 sign per street frontage; Max. 2 signs
Freestanding Signs - Monument and Post Sign (Only allowed in lieu of Building Mounted Signs)
	Residential Zones		Mixed-Use Zones		Commercial Zones
Max. Sign Area	Monument Sign - 32 sf Post Sign - 16 sf		Monument Sign - 32 sf Post Sign - 16 sf		Monument Sign - 40 sf Post Sign - 24 sf
Max. Sign Height	Monument Sign - 5 ft Post Sign - 6 ft		Monument Sign - 5 ft Post Sign - 6 ft		Monument Sign - 10 ft Post Sign - 6 ft
Max. Number of Signs	1 sign per street frontage; Max. 2 signs
Public and Institutional Uses
Only applies to public and institutional uses in all zones.
Building Mounted Signs
Max. Sign Area			40 sf
Max. Sign Height			Plate line
Max. Number of Signs			1 per street frontage; Max. 2 signs
Illumination			Non-illuminated or internal illumination
Freestanding Signs
Max. Sign Area			32 sf
Max. Sign Height			6 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 sign per street frontage; Max. 2 signs
Illumination			Non-illuminated or internal illumination
Other Requirements			2 sf of landscape area placed at the base of the sign for 1 sf of sign area.
Mixed-Use Commercial Uses
Only applies to commercial uses in Mixed-Use zones.
Building Mounted Signs
Max. Sign Area			Single tenant total building mounted sign area: 1 sf to 1 lf of building elevation where sign is placed (Includes awning, blade (< 6 sf), canopy, wall (max. 40 sf), and window signs) Multi-tenant total building mounted sign area: 1 sf to 1 If building tenant frontage (Includes awning, blade (< 6 sf), canopy, wall (max. 40 sf), and window signs)
Max. Sign Height			16 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 per business
Illumination			Non-illuminated or internal illumination
Other Requirements			Signs for an ancillary business located within an existing business are allowed 1 wall sign, max. 24 sf.
Freestanding Signs (Monument or Post Sign)
Max. Sign Area			Signs placed on primary street: Monument sign — 32 sf or Post sign — 16 sf Signs on a secondary street facing the parking lot: Monument sign — 20 sf or Post sign — 10 sf
Max. Sign Height			Monument sign — 8 ft; Post sign — 6 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 per street frontage: Max. 2 signs
Illumination			Non-illuminated or internal illumination.
Other Requirements			2 sf of landscape area placed at the base of the sign for 1 sf of sign area.
General Commercial Uses
Only applies to commercial uses in the Regional Commercial zone.
Building Mounted Signs
Max. Sign Area per Tenant		Lot Size		Max. Sign Size
		0 to 6,000 sf		80 sf
		6,0001 to 12,000 sf		100 sf
		12,001 to 24,000 sf		150 sf
		24,001 and above		200 sf
Max. Sign Height			Plate line
Max. Number of Signs			None, provided the total sign area per tenant is not exceeded.
Illumination			Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements			A roof-mounted sign is permitted in lieu of a wall sign or freestanding sign.
Freestanding Signs
Max. Sign Area			Sign area for multi-tenant properties shall be 20 sf.
Max. Sign Height			Monument sign: 20 ft Post Sign: 6 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 per street frontage; Max. 2 signs (Excludes freestanding signs on individual buildings pads).
Illumination			Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements			Individual building pads in a shopping center are allowed 1 monument sign placed on the building pad with max. area 20 sf and max. height of 6 ft. 2 sf of landscape area placed at the base of the sign for 1 sf of sign area.
Freeway-Oriented Signs (Applies to all freestanding signs in Regional Commercial zone and Industrial zones)
Parcels > 20 acres with frontage on Interstate 10.
Max. Sign Area			500 sf.
Max. Sign Height			Max. 55 ft; Max. 25 ft above freeway grade.
Sign Location			Min. 500 feet from any other freestanding freeway-oriented sign. Min. 25 feet setback from I-10 right-of-way.
Max. Number of Signs			1 per freeway-oriented frontage.
Illumination			Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements			Line of sight study required to determine optimum height for sign structures. For each freeway-oriented sign allowed an additional street-oriented freestanding sign may be permitted by design review provided the sign has a distinctive design and is max. 50 sf in area and not taller than 15 ft.
Parcels < 20 acres with frontage on Interstate 10.
Max. Sign Area			300 sf.
Max. Sign Height			Max. 40 ft; Max. 25 ft above freeway grade.
Sign Location			Min. 400 ft from any other freestanding freeway-oriented sign. Min. 25 ft setback from I-10 right-of-way.
Max. Number of Signs			1 per freeway-oriented frontage.
Illumination			Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements			Line of sight study required to determine optimum height for sign structures. For each freeway-oriented sign allowed an additional street-oriented freestanding sign may be permitted by design review provided the sign has a distinctive design and is max. 50 sf in area and not taller than 15 ft.
Downtown Zone
Standards for Downtown Zone			Refer to the Downtown Specific Plan,[1] Section 3.11 (Signs).
Manufacturing, Industrial, and Office Park Uses
Applies to manufacturing, industrial, office park uses in Light Industrial/Business Park, Heavy Industrial/Manufacturing, and Regional Commercial zones.
Building Mounted Signs
Max. Sign Area per Tenant		Lot Size		Max. Sign Size
		0 to 6,000 sf		80 sf
		6,0001 to 12,000 sf		100 sf
		12,001 to 24,000 sf		150 sf
		24,001 and above		200 sf
Max. Sign Height		Plate line
Max. Number of Signs		1 per tenant.
Illumination		Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements		A roof-mounted sign is permitted in lieu of a wall sign or freestanding sign.
Freestanding Signs
Max. Sign Area	1 acre or larger property, Max. 400 sf
	Frontage Length		Max. Sign Area		Max. Sign Height
	0 to 99 lf		80 sf		25 ft
	100 to 199 lf		100 sf		35 ft
	> 200 lf		200 sf		45 ft
Max. Sign Area - Monument Signs			45 sf (monument sign only)
Max. Sign Height - Monument Signs			20 ft
Number of Signs			1 per street frontage; Max. 2 signs
Illumination			Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements			2 sf of landscape area placed at the base of the sign for 1 sf of sign area.
Parks and Open Space
Applies to parks and open space uses in all zones.
Building Mounted Signs
Max. Sign Area			12 sf
Max. Sign Height			15 feet
Max. Number of Signs			1 per street frontage; Max. 2 signs
Illumination			Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Freestanding Signs
Max. Sign Area			24 sf
Max. Sign Height			6 ft
Max. Number of Signs			1 sign per parcel
Illumination			Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements			2 sf of landscape area placed at the base of the sign for 1 sf of sign area.

[1]

Editor's Note: The Downtown Specific Plan, referred to in this title is not printed herein, but is on file with the city.

Standards for Permanent Building-Mounted Signs.

Standards for each allowed permanent building-mounted sign type are provided in tables with a supporting illustration of each sign type. All permanent signs must comply with the standards for sign area, height, number, type, and other requirements provided in these tables. Each sign type listed in this Section must be included in the calculation of the total sign area allowed on a parcel or development site by Table 3.05.05-2 (Dimensional Standards for Permanent Signs) except as explicitly provided otherwise in Tables 3.05.05-3 through Table 3.05.05-18.

Awning Signs.

Awning signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-3 (Standards for Awning Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-3: Standards for Awning Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 1 sf per linear foot of awning width
Sign Height	Min. 8 ft from the bottom of the awning to the nearest grade or sidewalk Max. 20 ft
Number of Signs	No limit provided the max. area for building mounted signs is met.
Sign Placement	Must be placed above the doors and windows of the ground, second, or third floor. Awnings must not project above, below, or beyond the edges of the face of the building wall or architectural element. Sign width must not be greater than 60% of the width of the awning face or valance on which it is displayed. If an awning is placed on multiple storefronts, each business is permitted signage no greater than 60% of the width of the storefront. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit.
Valance Height	Max. 9 in
Horizontal Distance from the Front Edge of the Awning to the Back-of-Curb	Min. 2 ft
Illumination	Illumination allowed under the awning.

Blade Signs.

Blade signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-4 (Standards for Blade Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-4: Standards for Blade Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 12 sf
Number of Signs	1 per business frontage.
Mounting Height	Min. 8 ft from the bottom of the sign to the nearest grade or sidewalk. Must be mounted perpendicular to the building face or the corner of the building.
Sign Placement	If mounted below the underside of a walkway or overhead structure, must not extend beyond the edge of the structure on which it is located. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

Canopy Signs.

Canopy signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-5 (Standards for Canopy Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-5: Standards for Canopy Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 1 sf per linear foot of canopy width.
Sign Height	Min. 8 ft from the bottom of the canopy to the nearest grade or sidewalk; Max. 20 ft
Number of Signs	1 per business frontage.
Sign Placement	Must be placed above the doors and windows of the ground floor of a building. Sign width must not be greater than 60% of the width of the canopy on which it is displayed. If a canopy is placed on multiple store fronts, each business is permitted signage no greater than 60% of the store width or tenant space. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit.
Horizontal Distance from the Edge of the Canopy to Back-of-Curb	Min. 2 ft
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

Directional Signs (Building-Mounted).

Directional signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-6 (Standards for Directional Signs (Building-Mounted)).

TABLE 3.05.05-6: Standards for Directional Signs (Building-Mounted)
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 12 sf. Excluded from the total allowed sign area for all building-mounted signs.
Sign Height	Max. 8 ft
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per driveway entrance; 6 signs per site or development. If not readable from the right-of-way, no limit. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all building-mounted signs.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

Directory Signs (Building-Mounted).

Directory signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-7 (Standards for Directory (Building-Mounted)).

TABLE 3.05.05-7: Standards for Directory Signs (Building Mounted)
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 2 sf per tenant space; Max. total area 16 sf. Excluded from the total allowed sign area for all building-mounted signs.
Mounting Height	Max. 8 ft from nearest grade.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per primary building entrance. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all building-mounted signs.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.

Marquee Signs.

Marquee signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-8 (Standards for Marquee Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-8: Standards for Marquee Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 200 sf; Includes all 3 sides of the marquee.
Mounting Height	Min. 12 ft from the bottom of the marquee to the nearest grade or sidewalk.
Sign Placement	May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit. Sign letters may be placed above the marquee with approval of a Conditional Administrative Use Permit (Refer to Section 6.04.04 (Use Permits)).
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per business.
Horizontal Distance from the Front Edge of the Marquee to the Back-of-Curb	Min. 2 ft
Illumination	Direct illumination or internal illumination.

Roof-Mounted Signs.

Roof-mounted signs must comply with standards provided in Table 3.05.05-9 (Standards for Roof-Mounted Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-9: Standards for Roof-Mounted Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Refer to the standards for Wall Signs, Table 3.05.05-12. Sign width shall not be greater than 50% of the width of the roof or mansard in which it is displayed.
Sign Placement	Hip roof: Only placed on the lowest 1/3 of the slope of the roof measured from the peak. Mansard roof: Only placed on the lowest 1/2 of the slope of the roof. Signs for individual tenants in multi-tenant centers shall be centered above the tenant space and only mounted on a mansard roof.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per business. For corner sites, 1 sign per frontage.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements	Signs made of individual letters must have a minimum depth of 6 inches to convey a three-dimensional appearance. Roof mounted signs must be mounted in compliance with the requirements of Section 3.05.04D.2 (Sign Structure and Installation).

Service Island Canopy Signs.

Service Island Canopy signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-10 (Standards for Service Canopy Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-10: Standards for Service Island Canopy Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 60 sf for the total area of all signs on the canopy. As allowed by use permit but not to exceed 150 sf for detached signs and 32 sf for attached.
Number of Signs	Signs may only be displayed on max. 3 canopy facades.
Illumination	Non-illuminated or internal illumination.

Vertical Projecting Signs.

Projecting signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-11 (Standards for Vertical Projecting Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-11: Standards for Vertical Projecting Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 24 sf
Mounting Height	Min. 8 feet from the bottom of the sign to the nearest grade or sidewalk and 14 ft above vehicular ways.
Sign Placement	Only on the wall of a building. May project into public right-of-way with approval of an Encroachment Permit. Signs projecting over a public right-of-way shall be limited to those attached to a building located at or within six feet of the building entrance.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per business frontage.
Projection	Max. 4 ft from the building wall to the outer edge of the sign. No such sign shall extend closer than four feet to a curb line. For any building located on the property line may have a sign which projects up to 18 inches into the public right-of-way.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements	No sign or sign structure shall project into a driveway or a public alley.

10.

Wall Signs.

Wall signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-12 (Standards for Wall Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-12: Standards for Wall Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	As provided in Table 3.05.05-2.
Number of Signs	As provided in Table 3.05.05-2.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Sign Placement	Refer to the illustration below for applicable standards. Signs for businesses exclusively on the second or third floor of a multi-level building are allowed a wall or awning signs, max. 50% of the sign area allocated to business on the first floor.
Special Provisions	Requirements
Painted Wall Signs	Painted wall signs are allowed on any exterior building wall of an individual tenant space or building. The allowable area for painted wall signs will be increased by 10% over the normal allowable sign dimensions for the zone. Painted wall signs must be professionally painted. Non-illuminated or external illumination only.
Changeable Copy and Electronic Message Signs	Max. sign area 25% of the total allowable sign area for the building. The changeable sign copy must be an integral part of a permanent building-mounted sign. Changeable sign copy may only be non-illuminated or internally illuminated.

11.

Window Signs.

Window signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-13 (Standards for Window Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-13: Standards for Window Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Permanent window signs - max. 20% of the area of the window on which they are displayed. The combined area of portable and permanent window signs must not exceed 40% of the area of the window on which they are displayed. Painted window signs or perforated vinyl signs are included in this calculation. Excluded from the total allowed sign area for all building-mounted signs.
Sign Placement	Must be mounted or displayed on the interior of the window. Allowed on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd story windows only.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, neon, or single- or two-color LED signs are allowed.

Standards for Permanent Freestanding Signs.

Standards for each allowed permanent freestanding sign type are provided in tables with a supporting illustration of each sign type. All permanent signs must comply with the standards for sign area, height, number, type, and other requirements provided in these tables and Table 3.05.05-2 (Dimensional Standards for Permanent Signs).

Directional Signs (Freestanding).

Directional signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-14 (Standards for Directional Signs (Freestanding).

TABLE 3.05.05-14: Standards for Directional Signs (Freestanding)
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 2 sided allowed; 3 sf per sign face. Excluded from the total allowed sign area for all freestanding signs.
Sign Height	Max. 6 ft; except 4 ft at driveway or drive-through lanes.
Sign Placement	Max. 10 ft setback from the property line.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per driveway entrance; 6 signs per site or development. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all freestanding signs.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements	Freestanding directional signs must be located in a landscape area defined by a vertical curb to protect the sign. Lack of landscaping associated with a legal non-conforming use is not cause for abatement. Refer to the landscaping standards in Table 3.05.05-2.

Directory Signs (Freestanding).

Directory signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-15 (Standards for Directory Signs (Freestanding).

TABLE 3.05.05-15: Standards for Directory Signs (Freestanding)
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 12 sf; Max. 1 sf per tenant space. Excluded from the total allowed sign area for all freestanding signs.
Height	Max. 5 ft from nearest grade.
Sign Placement	Max. 10 ft setback from the property line.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per building. Excluded from the total number of allowed signs for all freestanding signs.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements	Freestanding directory signs shall be located in a landscaping area defined by a vertical curb to protect the sign. Lack of landscaping associated with a legal non-conforming use shall not be cause for abatement. Refer to the landscaping standards in Table 3.05.05-2.

Front Yard Signs.

Front Yard signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-16 (Standards for front Yard Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-16: Standards for Front Yard Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	Max. 4 sf per sign face; Max. dimension of longest side 2.5 ft. Excluded from the total area of allowed signs for all freestanding signs.
Height	Max. 6 ft
Sign Placement	Max. 10 ft setback from the property line.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per business.
Illumination	Non-illuminated or external illumination.

Monument Signs.

Monument signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-17 (Standards for Monument Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-17: Standards for Monument Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	As provided in Table 3.05.05-2.
Sign Height	As provided in Table 3.05.05-2. Elements to enhance the design of a sign structure may extend above the sign to a max. of 20% of the sign's allowed height, or 12 inches, whichever is greater.
Base Width/Height	The monument sign's base must be at least 60% of the width of the sign. The monument sign's base must be maximum 4 ft in height.
Sign Placement	Max. 10 ft setback from the property line.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements	Monument signs shall be located in a landscaping area defined by a vertical curb to protect the sign. Lack of landscaping associated with a legal non-conforming use shall not be cause for abatement. Refer to the landscaping standards in Table 3.05.05-2.
Special Provisions	Requirements
Changeable Copy and Electronic Message Signs	Max. sign area 30% of the total allowable sign area. The changeable sign or electronic message sign copy must be an integral part of a permanent monument sign. Changeable sign copy may only be non-illuminated or internally illuminated.

Monument Sign Standards for IL, IH, and RC Zones
Sign Area	As provided in Table 3.05.05-2.
Sign Height	As provided in Table 3.05.05-2. Elements to enhance the design of a sign structure may extend above the sign to a max. of 10% of the sign's allowed height, or 2 ft, whichever is greater.
Base Width/Height	The monument sign's base must be the same width as the width of the sign. The monument sign's base must be minimum 4 ft in height.

Post Signs.

Post signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.05-18 (Standards for Post Signs).

TABLE 3.05.05-18: Standards for Post Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Sign Area	As provided in Table 3.05.05-2.
Sign Height	Max. 6 ft. Elements to enhance the design of a sign structure may extend above the sign to a max. of 20% of the sign's allowed height, or 12 inches, whichever is greater.
Sign Placement	Max. 10 ft setback from the property line.
Number of Signs	Max. 1 per property frontage.
Illumination	Non-illuminated, internal illumination, or external illumination.
Other Requirements	Post signs shall be located in a landscaping area defined by a vertical curb to protect the sign. Lack of landscaping associated with a legal non-conforming use shall not be cause for abatement. Refer to the landscaping standards in Table 3.05.05-2.

§ 3.05.06 Sign Design Standards.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Applicability.

The standards established in this Section apply to all permanent signs. These standards complement the mandatory sign regulations established in Section 3.05.05 (Standards for Permanent Signs).

General Sign Design Standards.

These general sign design standards will be utilized during the review of any permit for a sign or master sign plan to ensure the highest level of design quality, while at the same time providing the flexibility necessary to encourage creativity on the part of the sign designer. However, unless there is a compelling reason, these design standards must be observed.

Use a Brief Message.

Signs must be designed with a brief message because the fewer words used, the more effective the sign. A sign with a brief message is quicker and easier to read, looks cleaner, is more effective in conveying its message, and is more attractive.

Avoid Overly Intricate or Unusual Fonts.

Simple, easy-to-read fonts must be utilized in signs to enhance their readability. Signs that include very intricate font styles are generally difficult to read and reduce a sign's ability to communicate effectively. Signs with unusual fonts may look good today, but soon go out of style, and the image conveyed may quickly become that of a dated and unfashionable business.

FIGURE 3.05.06-1. Examples of Signs with a Brief Message and Simple Font Style

Emphasize One Line of Text.

Signs with more than one line of text must emphasize one line over the others to enhance the message conveyed.

Limit the Number of Fonts.

The number of fonts used in a sign must be limited because the use of more than two font styles makes the sign harder to read. The primary purpose of a sign is to quickly convey information to motorists and pedestrians.

Sign Colors and Materials.

Sign colors and materials must contribute to sign legibility and design integrity. Signs with poor color selection are generally unattractive and unsuccessful at communicating the message. Too many different colors compete with the sign's content for a viewer's attention and makes the sign less effective. Sign materials must be durable and weather resistant.

Provide Contrast Between Background and Letters/Symbols.

Signs must be designed with high contrast between the sign's letter/symbol color and its background color to be most effective. Signs with little contrast in the hue (shade or tint) and/or intensity (brightness) between the background and letter/symbol colors are difficult to read.

FIGURE 3.05.06-2. Examples of Signs with a Simple Color Palette, Limited Fonts, and Good Contrast

Graphic Relief.

Signs must utilize individual lettered business and logo design, or where appropriate, sign copy, logo, and/or decorative embellishments in relief on the face of the sign to enhance readability and project a positive image of the business or use. Signs must be designed to provide three-dimensional relief, i.e., be raised above, or set below the sign background.

FIGURE 3.05.06-3. Examples of Raised Letters

Sign Placement.

Signs must be placed at or near the entrance of a site or building to show the most direct access to the business.

FIGURE 3.05.06-4. Example of Well-placed Sign Emphasizing a Building Entrance

Proportion, Scale and Rhythm of Sign Placement.

Signs must be placed consistent with the proportions and scale of building elements within a building's facade:

A large sign may fit well on a large, plain wall area, but could overpower the finer scale and proportion of if placed above a small storefront.

Signs must establish rhythm, scale, and proportion on a facade where these elements are weak in the building design. On buildings with plain facade, signs must establish or continue appropriate design rhythm, proportion, and scale.

The proportion of letter area to sign background area must be carefully considered. Letters must not appear to occupy more than 70 percent of the sign's background area. Signs where the letters take up too much of the background area are harder to read. Generally, large letters are not necessarily more legible than smaller ones.

FIGURE 3.05.06-5. Examples of Signs with Good Proportion, Scale, and Rhythm

10.

Complementary Sign Design.

Where there is more than one sign for a business (e.g., single tenant buildings) or group of businesses (e.g., multiple tenant buildings, commercial centers, or business or industrial parks), all signs must be designed to ensure consistency of sign design and be complementary to one another in the following ways:

Type of construction materials used in the sign body, sign copy, sign base, supports, etc.);

Letter size and style of copy;

Method and design of sign support (wall mounting or monument base);

Configuration of sign area; and

Proportion of sign copy area to background.

11.

Artistry and Innovation.

The use of artistry and innovation in sign design will make the sign stand out and draw attention to the use or activity it is advertising. It can also improve the overall appearance of a building or neighborhood.

12.

Sign Scale.

Signs must be designed and placed relative to who the intended viewer will be. Signs intended to be read by pedestrians (i.e., usually read from a distance of 15 to 20 feet) must be smaller in scale than a vehicle-oriented sign which is designed to be viewed from a much greater distance. In general, the closer the sign's viewing distance, the smaller the sign needs to be.

13.

Freestanding Signs.

Freestanding signs must incorporate the materials and architectural features used in the building(s) they serve. Freestanding signs are most effective when placed perpendicular to approaching vehicular traffic.

FIGURE 3.05.06-6. Example of a Freestanding Sign Incorporating the Architectural Details of the Main Building

Sign Design Performance Standards.

Sign Design Elements.

Increases in the allowable area and/or height of certain types of signs may be approved to encourage permanent signs with design features that are preferred by the City and the community at large. The design features detailed below apply to both freestanding and building mounted signs subject to the limitations in Subsection 2 (Cumulative Adjustment) below.

Raised Letter Signs.

This standard encourages the use of individual lettered business and logo design, or where appropriate, signs containing copy, logo and/or decorative embellishments in relief on the face of the sign. Such improved sign design enhances the readability of sign copy and projects a positive image of the business or use. A sign area and/or height increase as established in Table 3.05.06-1 (Percentage Increases for Design Features Used) may be approved for sign designs that display either:

Pan channel letters without raceways, or internal/indirect illuminated halo channel letters on an unlit or otherwise indistinguishable background on a freestanding sign or building wall; or

ii.

Where appropriate, carved signs with a three-dimensional textured surface that is integral to its design, such as extensively carved, routed, and/or sandblasted signs containing the business name and/or logo.

FIGURE 3.05.06-7. Examples of Pan Channel Letter and Raised Letter Signs

Simplified Letter and/or Logo Copy.

The purpose of this standard is to encourage easily recognizable business identification while simplifying the appearance of the city streetscape. A sign area and/or height increase as established in Table 3.05.06-1 (Percentage Increases for Design Features Used) may be approved for the sign standard.

FIGURE 3.05.06-8. Example of A Sign with a Simplified Logo

Sign Structure Materials.

This standard encourages the use of native or natural materials in the construction of sign structures, resulting in improved and innovative sign design and an improved image of the business or development to which it refers. A sign area and/or height increase as established in Table 3.05.06-1 (Percentage Increases for Design Features Used) may be approved for the sign designs in which a minimum of 75 percent of the sign structure and face are constructed of native or natural materials, including rock native to the area, flagstone, river rock, hardwoods or softwoods, durable wood substitute materials, used brick, and/or unpainted or unfinished non-reflective metals. A sign area or height increase as provided in Table 3.05.06-1 (Percentage Increases for Design Features Used) does not apply if the sign structure includes a cabinet sign or electronic message sign.

Sign Structure Which Blends with the Development Site.

This standard encourages the incorporation of a sign and sign structure into a major element of a building facade or significant landscape feature, resulting in the creation of a unique image for the development or premises on which it is located. A sign area and/or height increase as established in Table 3.05.06-1 (Percentage Increases for Design Features Used) may be approved for the sign designs that integrate major architectural elements or details of the development site into the building facade for a building mounted sign, or the support structure for a freestanding sign.

Freestanding Signs of Reduced Height.

This standard encourages the reduction of overall height for freestanding signs as established in the standards for permanent freestanding signs in Section 3.05.05 (Standards for Permanent Signs), while maintaining sign and site compatibility and improving the image of the business or development. See Table 3.05.06-1 (Percentage Increases for Design Features Used) for percentage increases allowed.

TABLE 3.05.06-1: Percentage Increases for Design Features Used
Design Feature	Freestanding Sign		Building-Mounted Sign
	Area Increase	Height Increase	Area Increase	Height Increase
Single-Tenant Use
Raised Letter without Raceways	15%	10%	10%	5%
Simplified Letter and/or Logo Copy	15%	10%	10%¹	5%
Sign Structure Materials	15%		10%	5%
Sign Structure which Blends with Development Site	15%		10%	5%
Freestanding Signs of Reduced Height	15% area increase for each 1 foot in height reduction		N/A
Multi-Tenant Use
Raised Letter without Raceways	15%	10%	10%	5%
Simplified Letter and/or Logo Copy²	15%	20%	N/A
Sign Structure Materials	15%	15%	10%	5%
Sign Structure which Blends with Development Site	15%	15%	10%	5%
Freestanding Signs of Reduced Height			N/A

End Notes:
1.	Also applies to individual occupancy within a multi-tenant building, development, or shopping center.
2.	Applies to multi-tenant building, development, or shopping center.

Cumulative Adjustments.

Where more than one feature listed in Subsection 1 is proposed, the adjustment allowed for each individual feature is cumulative. Such sign area and/or height adjustment is measured and based upon the permitted sign area and height for the applicable site as determined in Section 3.05.05 (Standards for Permanent Signs). Cumulative adjustments for sign area and sign height for freestanding and building mounted signs are provided in Table 3.05.06-2 (Cumulative Adjustments).

TABLE 3.05.06-2: Cumulative Adjustments
Number of Features Used	Freestanding Sign		Building-Mounted Sign
	Area	Height	Area	Height
2	30%	20-30%¹	20%	10%
3	40%	35-40%	30%	20%
Cumulative Maximum Sign Area Increase Allowed	45%	45%	45%	30%

End Note:
1.	This percentage varies depending on which design features listed in Table 3.05.06-1 are utilized.

§ 3.05.07 Standards for Portable and Temporary Signs.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Purpose.

The Council finds that the proliferation of portable and temporary signs is a distraction to the traveling public and creates aesthetic blight and litter that threatens the public's health, safety, and welfare. In addition to the purpose provisions of Section 3.05.01 (General Provisions), these regulations ensure that portable and temporary signs do not create a distraction to the traveling public by eliminating the aesthetic blight and litter caused by these signs.

General to All.

Portable and temporary signs are allowed only in compliance with the provisions of this Section.

Permits.

Portable Signs.

No permits are required to place or display portable signs.

Temporary Signs.

A Temporary Sign Permit is required for all temporary signs (i.e., banner signs and yard sign type II and type III signs) as described in Section 3.05.09C (Sign Permits — Temporary Signs).

Not Included in Permanent Sign Allowances.

Portable and temporary signs are not counted toward the maximum total sign area established in Section 3.05.05 (Standards for Permanent Signs).

General Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions.

Time Restrictions.

Portable signs. Refer to Table 3.05.07-1 (Standards for Portable Signs) for the time restrictions for portable signs.

ii.

Temporary signs. Refer to Table 3.05.07-3 (Standards for Temporary Signs) for the time restrictions for temporary signs.

Location Restrictions.

Unless specifically exempted by this Section, portable and temporary signs must be placed in compliance with Section 3.05.03A (Location Restrictions).

Prohibited Elements.

Any form of illumination is prohibited on portable and temporary signs, including flashing, blinking, or rotating lights; animation; reflective materials; and attachments including balloons, ribbons, loudspeakers, etc. are prohibited.

Design and Construction.

Portable and temporary signs must be of sufficient weight and durability to withstand wind gusts, storms, etc. and must be professionally crafted.

Removal.

All portable and temporary signs must be removed within 14 calendar days after the conclusion of the purpose served by the sign.

Additional Standards for Portable Signs.

Portable signs are allowed in compliance with the provisions in Table 3.05.07-1 (Standards for Portable Signs).

TABLE 3.05.07-1: Standards for Portable Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Residential Only Zones or Residential Only Portion of Mixed-Use Zones
Total Area of all Portable Signs at Any One Time	Max. 6 sf per lot or parcel
Number of Signs	Unlimited except that the total sign area must not exceed 6 sf.
Time Limitations	No limitation on the length of time they may be displayed. 2 additional yard sign type 1 signs may be displayed for any consecutive 120-day period one time within the calendar year.
All Other Zones
Total Area of All Portable Signs at Any One Time	Max. 9 sf per business. Excludes the area of window signs.
Number of Signs	Unlimited except that the total sign area of all temporary signs (excludes the area of window signs) must not exceed 9 sf per business.
Time Limitations	No limitation on the length of time they may be displayed. 2 additional yard sign type 1 signs per business may be displayed for any consecutive 120-day period one time within the calendar year.

Standards for Specific Portable Sign Types.

Portable signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.07-2 (Standards for Specific Portable Sign Types).

TABLE 3.05.07-2: Standards for Specific Portable Sign Types
Portable Sign Type	Standards			Other Requirements
Portable Sign Type¹	Height (Max.)	Width (Max.)	Area (Max.)
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
A-Frame or Upright Sign	4 ft	2 ft	6 sf	Prohibited in residential zones. If advertising a business, only permitted during regular business hours.
Window Sign	—	—	See End Note²	Max. Height: Placed no higher than first story windows. Inside mounting required. Not included in the total sign area for all portable signs.
Yard Sign Type I	4 ft	2 ft	3 sf	Installation Requirement: Installed securely in the ground.

End Notes:
1.	Other non-permanent sign types may be allowed (e.g., fuel pump topper signs, wraps around waste receptacles, or balloon bobbers (max. height of tether or support is 3 ft) provided the aggregate sign area of these signs is max 20 sf.
2.	The area of temporary and permanent window signs combined (including signs constructed of perforated vinyl or painted on the window) must not exceed 40% of the area of the window on or within which they are displayed.

Sign Walkers.

To promote pedestrian and traffic safety, sign walkers are subject to the following time, place, and manner restrictions:

A sign permit is not required for a sign walker;

Sign walkers are only allowed in the commercial and industrial zones and commercial planned development zones;

Sign walkers are permitted to stand on a sidewalk provided pedestrian movement is unimpeded in conformance with applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA);

Sign walkers are prohibited from standing in the median of streets, in travel lanes, landscaped areas, curb ramps at crosswalks, and unimproved rights-of-way areas. Sign walkers may not interfere with traffic or block pedestrians or bicyclists;

A business is only allowed to use a sign walker for up to 10 consecutive days in any 30-day period and there must be at least a 20-day period before the commencing of another 10-day period;

Sign walkers are permitted only from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm;

Sign walker signs must not exceed 10 square feet in the area;

Sign walker signs that include any of the following are prohibited:

Audio devices to attract attention;

Any form of illumination, including flashing, blinking, or rotating lights; and

Animation on the sign itself.

Spinning, waving, throwing the sign in the air, or any other similar erratic movements intended to attract attention is prohibited; and

10.

No shade structure, chair, or other sitting device is permitted for a sign walker.

Additional Standards for Temporary Signs.

Temporary signs are allowed in compliance with the provisions in Table 3.05.07-3 (Standards for Temporary Signs).

TABLE 3.05.07-3: Standards for Temporary Signs
Standards	Requirements
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Residential Zones or Residential Only Portion of Mixed-Use Zones
Number of Signs	Yard sign type II and type III: Max. 1 sign per street frontage. Banner sign: Prohibited, except as provided below.
Time Limitations	Yard sign type II and type III: No limitation on the length of time they may be displayed. Banner sign: 1 banner sign max. 8 sf in area may be displayed for any consecutive 120-day period one time within the calendar year.
All Other Zones
Number of Signs	Yard sign type II and type III: Max. 1 sign per street frontage. Banner sign: Max. 1 banner per business.
Time Limitations	Yard sign type II and type III: No limitation on the length of time they may be displayed. Banner sign: 1 additional banner sign (or up to 4 banners, max. 8 sf each) per lot or parcel may be displayed for any consecutive 120-day period one time within the calendar year.

Standards for Specific Temporary Sign Types.

Temporary signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.07-4 (Standards for Specific Temporary Sign Types).

TABLE 3.05.07-4: Standards for Specific Temporary Sign Types
Temporary Sign Type¹	Standards			Other Requirements
	Height (Max.)	Width (Max.)	Area (Max.)
*"ft"* = Feet; *"lf"* = Linear Feet; and *"sf"* = Square Feet
Banner Sign	25 ft to top of banner.	—	32 sf	Prohibited in single-family residential zones except as allowed in Table 3.05.07-3. Must be mounted on a building wall or between columns, posts, or stakes anchored securely into the ground.
Yard Sign Type II	6 ft	2 ft	4 sf	Installation Requirement: Installed securely in the ground.
Yard Sign Type III	7 ft	6 ft	24 sf	Prohibited in single-family residential zones. Installation Requirement: Installed securely in the ground.

Temporary Model Home Complex/Active Residential Subdivision Signs.

Temporary model home complex/active residential subdivision signs are allowed as a condition of the subdivision approval in all residential zones and for residential developments in the mixed-use zones. These signs must comply with the standards provided in Table 3.05.07-5 (Standards for Temporary Model Home Complex/Active Residential Subdivision Signs in All Residential Zones).

TABLE 3.05.07-5: Standards for Temporary Model Home Complex/Active Residential Subdivision Signs in All Residential Zones
Sign Type	Maximum Number of Signs
Banner^{1 2}	1 per boundary street frontage of the model home complex/active residential subdivision
Yard Sign Type I^{1 2}	1 per lot or dwelling 1 per boundary street frontage of the model home complex/active residential subdivision
Yard Sign Type II^{1 2}	1 per lot or dwelling
Yard Sign Type III^{1 2}	1 per boundary street frontage of the model home complex/active residential subdivision

Additional Standards for Temporary Model Home Complex/Active Residential Subdivision Signs:
1.	All temporary model home complex/active residential subdivision signs must be removed upon the conversion of the model home(s) to a residential use and must be removed upon the close of escrow of the last lot in the subdivision or upon cessation of use, whichever comes first.
2.	Any temporary model home complex/active residential subdivision signs placed in public right-of-way requires approval of an Encroachment Permit.

§ 3.05.08 Nonconforming Signs.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Purpose.

This Section establishes regulations for non-conforming signs that were lawful before the adoption or amendment of this Chapter, but which would be prohibited, regulated, or restricted differently in compliance with the current regulations. These provisions provide for the orderly termination of non-conforming signs to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and to bring non-conforming signs into conformity with the goals and policies of the City's adopted General Plan. In recognition of these declarations, it is the intent of this Chapter to:

Prevent the expansion of non-conforming signs to the maximum extent feasible;

Establish criteria under which non-conforming signs may be continued or expanded; and

Provide for the correction or removal of non-conforming signs in an equitable, reasonable, and timely manner.

Applicability.

Nonconforming signs may be maintained, expanded upon, and/or abated only in accordance with the provisions of this Section. In no event will the degree of nonconformity of any sign or type of signage on any lot be increased. Illegal signs, such as signs installed without a required building permit, are not considered to be non-conforming signs.

Signs Rendered Nonconforming.

Any sign which becomes non-conforming subsequent to the Effective Date of this ordinance either by reason of the annexation to the City of the territory upon which the sign is located, or the amendment of this Chapter to render a sign non-conforming, shall also be subject to the provisions of this Section.

Modification and Maintenance.

No non-conforming sign shall be altered in any manner, reconstructed, or moved without being made to comply in all respects with the provisions of this Chapter. Nothing in this Section shall prohibit the normal upkeep or repair of any sign, nor the painting or repainting of the face of the sign, during its lawful existence.

Nonconforming signs are required to be maintained in good condition in compliance with Section 3.05.04 (General Requirements for All Signs). Maintenance of legal non-conforming signs shall be consistent with applicable California law. Nothing in this Chapter shall affect existing property or the right to its continued use for the purpose used at the time this Chapter takes effect, nor to make any reasonable repairs or alterations.

A legal non-conforming sign that has been damaged to the extent of more than 50 percent of the appraised value of the sign structure or is temporarily or permanently removed by any means, including "an act of God," shall be removed or rebuilt, repaired, or replaced only in compliance with the provisions of this Chapter if an application for a Sign Permit to re-erect the sign is made within 6-months of its destruction.

Signs Previously Approved.

Any sign erected and installed pursuant to a permit lawfully issued by the City prior to the Effective Date of this ordinance shall be treated as a conforming sign. All signs determined to be conforming signs may be continued, maintained, and repaired so long as the sign is not structurally altered or expanded.

Removal or Replacement of a Nonconforming Sign.

Removal of a non-conforming sign, or replacement of a non-conforming sign with a conforming sign, is required when:

A building is renovated and the cost of the renovation is 50 percent of more of the value of the building as determined by the Building Official or the building is demolished and rebuilt; or

The use of the sign and/or the property on which the sign is located has been abandoned, ceased operations, become vacant, or been unoccupied for a period of 90 consecutive days or more as long as the period of non-use is attributable at least in part to the property owner, tenant, or other person or entity in control of the use. For purposes of this Section, rental payments or lease payments and taxes shall not be considered as a continued use. In the event this should occur, such conditions will be considered as evidence of abandonment, requiring removal of the sign by the owner of the property, his/her agent, or person having the beneficial use of the property, building or structure upon which such sign or sign structure is erected within 30 days after written notification from the Community Development Director. If, within the 30-day period, such sign(s) is (are) not removed, enforcement action shall be pursued.

Incentive for Replacement of a Nonconforming Freestanding Sign.

As an incentive for the replacement of a non-conforming freestanding sign with a new sign that is in closer conformance with the area and height standards for freestanding signs of Section 3.05.05D (Standards for Permanent Freestanding Signs), a new freestanding sign may be approved and erected that is reduced in height and area by 10 percent of the existing non-conforming sign, or the area and height standards for freestanding signs established in Section 3.05.05D (Standards for Permanent Freestanding Signs), whichever is larger. The replacement freestanding sign must be a type authorized in Section 3.05.05D.

The new replacement sign shall be located in the same place as the former non-conforming sign, unless it would be located in a corner cut-off area or similar location where freestanding signs are prohibited (refer to Section 3.05.04A), in which case it may be placed as close as possible to its original location and still satisfy the requirements of this Chapter. Any non-conforming sign modified in accordance with the provisions of this Section will still be considered a non-conforming sign until full compliance with the area and height standards of Section 3.05.05 (Standards for Permanent Signs) has been achieved.

Abatement.

Abatement of non-conforming signs shall be accomplished in the following manner:

Signs painted on buildings, walls, and fences shall be painted over in such a manner that the sign is no longer visible. The new painting shall be applied so that the sign area blends with and is compatible with the color scheme of the building.

All other signs not otherwise specified by this Section shall be removed or altered to cause it to conform with the provisions of this Title.

Maintenance.

Nonconforming signs are required to be maintained in good condition in compliance with the sign maintenance provisions of Section 3.05.04 (General Requirements for All Signs). Maintenance of legal non-conforming signs shall be consistent with applicable California law. Nothing in this Chapter affects an existing sign or the right to its continued use for the purpose used at the time this Chapter takes effect, nor the right to make any reasonable repairs or alterations within the existing sign envelope.

Amortization of Nonconforming Signs and Inventory.

All non-conforming signs, except as described in Subsections 2 and 3 below, shall have a useful and legal life of 15 years from the Effective Date.

All non-conforming freeway-oriented signs shall have a useful and legal life of 25 years from the Effective Date.

All non-conforming billboards located within the City limits and not within Interstate 10 corridor shall have a useful and legal life of 7 years from the Effective Date.

After the time frames described in Subsection 1 through 3 above, non-conforming freeway-oriented signs and billboards may be removed in compliance with the requirements of the California Business and Professions Code. As often as may be desirable, but no less frequently than required by State law, the Director shall authorize an identification and inventory of all illegal and abandoned signs within the City in compliance with the requirements of State law.

§ 3.05.09 Sign Permits and Procedures.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Purpose.

Review Authority.

It is the duty of the Department to enforce all permitting and entitlement provisions of this Chapter. The Director has the authority under this chapter to designate a representative of the Department to implement the provisions herein.

All department officials and public employees of the City vested with the duty or authority to issue permits shall conform to the provisions of this chapter and shall issue no permit, certificate, or license for uses in conflict with the provisions of this chapter. It shall be the duty of the Director and the Fire Department to enforce the provisions of this Chapter.

Applications and Fees.

Application for a Sign Permit shall be made upon a form provided by the City and shall contain such information as may be required to assure compliance with this chapter of the code. If the applicant does not agree with the decision made, an appeal process is available under Special Review to the Planning Commission.

The application fee for Sign Permits shall be fixed from time to time by City resolution. The fee shall be doubled when the installation of a sign is commenced before obtaining a Sign Permit.

Identification.

Every sign erected, altered, or relocated must include the following information where it is readily visible: the date of erection or installation, the date of alteration, the Sign Permit number, and the voltage of any internal electrical components, as well as the Underwriter's Laboratory approval stamp in a conspicuous place.

Sign Permits — Permanent Signs.

Purpose.

This section establishes the permitting requirements for permanent sign structures as described in Chapter 3.05 (Sign Regulations) to ensure compliance with the applicable provisions of this Code.

Sign Permit Requirement.

Where a Sign Permit is required by this Chapter, it shall be unlawful for any person to erect, place, display, alter, repair, or relocate a permanent sign structure without first obtaining approval for a Permanent Sign Permit from the Director.

A sign permit is not required for the following;

Exempt signs per Section 3.05.01D (Exemptions);

ii.

Changes to the face or copy of changeable signs;

iii.

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

iv.

The normal repair and maintenance of conforming or legal non-conforming signs, except as provided in Section 3.05.04E (Sign Maintenance).

Review and Approval.

Review and Determination.

The Director shall review the Sign Permit application and supporting documentation for compliance with the standards of Chapter 3.05 (Sign Regulations). The Director shall determine whether the Sign Permit may be issued or if additional information is required from the applicant to complete the permit application in compliance with the Review Schedule on file with the Department. If the Sign Permit application is denied, the reason shall be stated in writing.

Method of Review.

After receipt of a sign application, the Director shall render a decision to approve, approve with modifications, or deny the sign request within seven working days. Such review will ensure that any sign proposal is in conformance with this chapter and is consistent with the City's objectives or as stated in a design agreement. The Director may grant slight deviations from the designated sign area or location or distance between signs, not to exceed 10 percent, when he or she determines no other reasonable method of signing is functional.

Substitution.

Any time after a Sign Permit is issued, a new owner, tenant, or lessee of record may be substituted for the original applicant if a record of the new interest is made with the City and the new interest assumes all obligations they would have had consistent with the original permit.

Expiration.

A Sign Permit shall expire and become null and void if the work authorized in compliance with the permit is not commenced within 180 days from the date of issuance of such permit, or if work is suspended or abandoned for a period 90 days or more at any time after the work has commenced. If a Sign Permit has not been obtained within 180 days after the approval of permit plans and issuance of the permit, the Director shall consider the application withdrawn.

Inspections.

All signs for which a Sign Permit is required are subject to inspection to establish compliance with the provisions of Chapter 3.05 (Sign Regulations), as well as the following additional inspections, unless waived in writing by the Building Official:

Footing inspections on all freestanding signs, including the addition of additional sign area to existing signs;

ii.

Electrical inspections for all sign structure(s) prior to placement; and

iii.

Final inspection to establish compliance with provisions of this Code and other applicable City codes.

Violations.

Any work commenced without a Sign Permit, or any work beyond the authorized scope of a Sign Permit constitutes a violation of this Chapter and is grounds for the Director to issue a correction notice and/or to stop all work on the sign until appropriate permits are obtained.

ii.

Permits issued for work commenced without a Sign Permit, or any work beyond the authorized scope of a Sign Permit, shall be assessed double the required permit fees for the sign(s) otherwise as established in the City's Fee Schedule. Payment of a double permit fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of Chapter 3.05 (Sign Regulations), nor from any penalty prescribed by law.

Sign Permits — Temporary Signs.

Purpose.

This Section establishes the permitting requirements for temporary signs to ensure compliance with the applicable provisions of this Code.

Temporary Sign Permit Requirement.

It is unlawful for any person to erect, place, display, alter, or relocate a temporary banner sign, yard sign type II sign, or yard sign type III sign without first obtaining approval for a Temporary Sign Permit from the Director.

Duration of Temporary Sign Permit.

The duration of a Temporary Sign Permit for temporary signs is established in Table 3.05.07-3 (Standards for Temporary Signs).

Review and Approval.

Review.

The Director shall review the Temporary Sign Permit application and supporting documentation for compliance with the standards of Section 3.05.07 (Standards for Portable and Temporary Signs).

Determination.

The Director shall determine whether the Temporary Sign Permit may be issued or if additional information is required from the applicant to complete the permit application in compliance with the Review Schedule on file with the Department. If the Temporary Sign Permit application is denied, the reason shall be stated in writing.

Authorization.

Issuance of a Temporary Sign Permit authorizes the holder to install a temporary sign(s) in compliance with the terms of the permit. At any time after a Temporary Sign Permit is issued, a new owner, tenant, or lessee of record may be substituted for the original applicant if a record of the new interest is made with the City and the new interest assumes all obligations he or she would have had in compliance with the original permit. The change of interest shall not imply that any fees paid for the permit will be returned to either the interest which has been replaced or the substitute.

Inspections.

All temporary signs for which a Temporary Sign Permit is required are subject to inspection to establish compliance with the provisions of Section 3.05.07 (Standards for Portable and Temporary Signs) and any other applicable City codes.

Violations.

Any temporary sign installed or displayed without a Temporary Sign Permit is in violation of this Section and is grounds for the Director to issue a correction notice and/or to cause removal of the temporary sign until appropriate permits are obtained.

Sign Permits — Master Sign Plans.

Purpose.

The purpose of this Section is to provide a process to respond to special signage needs for proposed or existing multi-family residential and non-residential uses, as well as to provide sign design incentives that promote superior sign design, materials, and methods of installation. Master Sign Plan provides mixed-use, non-residential, and multi-family residential uses with flexibility to develop innovative, creative, and effective signage and to improve the aesthetics of the City. This plan also provides an alternative to minimum standard signage subject to sign design performance standards.

Applicability.

Master Sign Plan apply to proposed or existing mixed-use, non-residential, and multi-family residential uses as follows:

Master Sign Plan is required for:

All proposed multi-tenant, or multi-story non-residential developments including mixed-use developments, and multi-family residential uses; and

ii.

Existing mixed-use and non-residential multi-tenant uses, when:

A building addition and/or an increase of use is proposed in terms of gross floor area, seating capacity, or other units of measurement indicating an intensification of use of 25 percent or more; or

An exterior structural remodeling of the building facade is proposed which affects signage.

A Master Sign Plan may voluntarily be developed and maintained by the owner, applicant, or representative of any new or existing mixed-use, non-residential, and multi-family residential use, when the owner, applicant or representative seeks allowed adjustments under Section 3.05.06 (Sign Design Standards). Any adjustments authorized under a Master Sign Plan using the Sign Design Performance Standards apply to all building mounted signs and freestanding signs within the boundaries of the subject site.

Review.

Applications for a Master Sign Plan, including a Master Sign Plan that utilizes the sign design performance standards provided in Section 3.05.06 (Sign Design Standards), shall be reviewed by the Director.

At a minimum, all Master Sign Plans shall include the type, number, size, location/placement, and general design parameters of all permanent building mounted and freestanding signs. Modifications to any uniform sign program shall be made in the same manner as the original approval. All Master Sign Plan submittals shall be reviewed for compliance with the requirements of this Section, and the Director shall either approve, conditionally approve, or deny the proposed Master Sign Plan. Following approval by the Director, a copy of the approved Master Sign Plan will be made available to the applicant. Individual signs for multi-tenant developments included within the approved Master Sign Plan are subject to the issuance of separate Sign Permits in compliance with this Chapter.

The Planning Commission shall review all Master Sign Plans that request an increase in allowable sign height and area beyond the limits established in Section 3.05.06 (Sign Design Standards) for freestanding and building mounted signs for multi-tenant buildings and shopping centers.

Supplemental Provisions.

Modifications to an approved Master Sign Plan shall be reviewed by the Director.

No sign identified in this Section may be placed upon real property without the consent of the real property owner(s), who shall either sign and submit the application for a Master Sign Plan or designate in writing an authorized representative.

A Master Sign Plan may be implemented in phases.

Submittal Requirements.

A complete application for Master Sign Plan review and approval is required following, or in conjunction with, the approval of the required site plan for the development, and prior to issuance of a building permit. An application for Master Sign Plan review shall be submitted on a form prescribed by the City in compliance with Subsection A.2 (Application and Fees). The application shall be signed by the property owner(s), and/or their authorized agent(s), if appropriate.

Individual Signs Authorized by an Approved Master Sign Plan.

Sign Permits, which must be obtained in compliance with Subsection B (Sign Permits - Permanent Signs), are required for individual signs authorized by an approved Master Sign Plan, provided:

The signs comply with all applicable conditions of the approved Master Sign Plan;

Sign Permit applications are submitted within a time period specified as part of the conditions of the content or review of the Master Sign Plan, where applicable; and

Sign Permit applications are submitted prior to any subsequent amendment to this Chapter which is more restrictive than provisions existing when the Master Sign Plan was approved.

§ 3.05.10 Sign Enforcement.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

Authority.

It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, display, maintain, or use a sign within the city contrary to, or in violation of, any provision of this Chapter.

Abatement.

Any sign located on any public right-of-way or public property or on any utility pole or streetlight in violation of this Chapter or located on private property without the permission of the property owner, may be removed by the Director. The signs will be held for 10 days by the City prior to destruction. If the name and address of the person responsible for the sign can be reasonably ascertained, the City shall provide at least seven days written notice by first class mail to the sign owner stating the location of the signs, the fact they will be destroyed, and the cost for recovering the signs.

Agency Relationship.

Persons posting signs within the City are responsible for knowing the City's sign regulations. Any person posting signs is deemed the agent of any other person or directed the manufacture or posting of the signs. These persons shall be individually and severally liable to the City for the costs of abatement of any illegal signs, as well as criminally liable for violations of this Chapter.

Costs.

The fees to be charged for the removal and storage of non-conforming signs shall be established by resolution of the City Council in the City's fee schedule and shall not exceed the City's estimated reasonable cost for the removal and storage of the signs. The Director shall review such fees as appropriate and recommend any necessary adjustments to the City Council.

§ 3.05.11 Variance.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

The requirements of this Section shall be enforced in compliance with the variance provisions of Section 6.04.06 (Administrative Variances and Variances).

§ 3.05.12 Severability.

[9-21-2022 by Ord. 1782]

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