A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this Chapter is to establish regulations relating to signs and sign structures with the goal of enhancing the quality of the City's visual appearance. The intent of this Chapter is to:
1. 
Maintain and enhance the physical appearance of and economic value of the City;
2. 
Preserve and maintain the attractiveness of the community and enhance the character of the City as a desirable place to live, work, play and visit;
3. 
Provide guidance for design of advertising displays, structures and devices which will harmonize with their surroundings, avoid confusion or excessive competition for visual attention, and result in signage which is architecturally compatible with adjacent buildings or structures;
4. 
Reduce the potential for distraction of or hazard to motorists or pedestrians;
5. 
Reduce the potential for creation of visual nuisances; and
6. 
Prevent the intrusion of blatant commercialism that is not conducive to the dignity of the City.
B. 
Applicability. The requirements and development standards in this Chapter shall apply to all zones in the City. Only signs authorized by this Chapter shall be allowed in that zone unless otherwise expressly provided in this Chapter.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
No person shall erect any sign regulated by this Chapter without first obtaining a sign permit, which for this Section shall also include, as applicable, a promotional advertisement permit.
B. 
Application Materials. The applicant for the sign permit shall submit sign plans that include a site plan, and building and sign elevations rendered in color that identify the following:
1. 
Sign area with dimensions, sign colors, sign type, sign materials and method of illumination.
2. 
Structural details and calculations when appliable, electrical wiring diagrams, footing and anchoring details.
3. 
Such other information as the Zoning Administrator and Building Official deem reasonable and necessary to ensure safety of construction and compliance with this Chapter and all other City ordinances.
C. 
Fees. All applicable fees shall be paid as established in the adopted fee schedule.
D. 
Consent of Owner. No person shall erect any sign regulated by this Chapter without first obtaining and filing with the Zoning Administrator the written consent of the owner and/or the lessee or person having possession of the property upon which the sign is situated.
E. 
Other Applicable Permits. The approval of a sign permit does not negate the requirement for any other applicable permit.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
Nameplates. This category shall include signage which displays only the business name and property address, hours of operation, credit card accepted (or equivalent) and employment advertisement relating to the business located on the subject premises.
B. 
Real Estate Signs. This category shall include signs or other advertising which relate only to the sale, lease or other disposition of the building, property or premises upon which such signs and other advertising are located, and shall only be temporary in nature, and shall be removed upon disposition of such property or building.
C. 
Construction Signs. This category shall include signs or nameplates which relate only to individuals, businesses or firms directly connected with construction or development projects of a building, property or premises upon which such signs or nameplates are located, and shall only be temporary in nature, and shall be removed upon completion of such projects.
D. 
Directional Signs. This category shall only include signs or sign structures only relating or pertaining to identifying and/or directing vehicular traffic to off-street parking facilities for a business or business complex located on the same property or premises with the business or business complex upon which such parking facilities and directional signs are intended to serve.
E. 
Business Signs. This category shall include all signs and/or sign structures only relating or pertaining to those services rendered or to the use conducted on the property or premises upon which such signs or sign structures are located.
F. 
Promotional Advertising. This category shall only include the display of banners which are directly related to the promotion of grand openings, seasonal sales and/or special events for business establishments. Promotional advertising that does not consist of the use of banners shall be subject to review, approval and/or conditional approval by the Zoning Administrator. All such promotional advertising shall be subject to the specific regulations as set forth in Section 18.20.110 (Purpose and Applicability). The following definitions shall apply:
1. 
A promotional banner is a temporary display of professional quality, mounted flush against the façade of a building, constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, nylon or other similar material, with or without a structural frame, and which does not require a building permit for its construction or installation.
G. 
Nonconforming Signs. This category shall include all signs and/or other advertising of any type whatsoever which do not specifically conform to the provisions of this Chapter.
H. 
Illegal Signs. Signs and/or other advertising which were illegal under the provisions of any other ordinance or other applicable local, State, or Federal law in effect prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Chapter shall still be deemed illegal, and shall be subject to the abatement of and/or compliance with the provisions of this Chapter.
I. 
Window Signage. This category is established to allow professionally painted, attached, glued or otherwise affixed signs within fifteen feet of a window designed to be viewed by the public. Signage to include advertising relating to the business name, services rendered, sales and products subject to zoning consistency review and approval.
J. 
Freestanding Sign. Any sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on or anchored in the ground and that are independent from any building or other structure.
K. 
Monument Signage. A freestanding sign of low, solid design whose entire bottom is in contact with the ground.
L. 
Building Identification Signage.
1. 
Wall-Mounted. A sign attached parallel to a wall erected and confined within the limits of an outside wall of any building. The sign shall have only one display surface, oriented toward a public street or right-of-way. See Figure 18.20.030.A.
Figure 18.20.030.A Wall-Mounted Building Identification Sign
2. 
Parallel-Projecting. A sign located parallel to a wall erected and confined within the limits of an outside wall of any building or structure; affixed to, supported by, or an integral part of a projecting architectural feature, such as a metal awning or canopy, that is permanent and not retractable. The sign shall have only one display surface. See Figure 18.20.030.B:
Figure 18.20.030.B Parallel Projecting Building Identification Sign
M. 
Pedestrian-Oriented Signage. A double-faced nonilluminated identification sign installed perpendicular to a building's façade that is either directly attached to the façade or installed under a canopy so as to be suspended perpendicular above the nearest entrance. The sign shall contain only the name of the business. See Figure 18.20.030.C.
Figure 18.20.030.C Pedestrian Oriented Sign
N. 
Creative Signage. A sign with a high quality of design that meets the creative design criteria within Section 18.20.080 Creative Signage.
O. 
Digital Billboard. This category shall include signs, signboards, or outdoor advertising displays utilizing digital message technology where the message, copy, or graphic on the sign changes more than once every two minutes, but no more than once every four seconds. Digital billboards may include on-site or off-site advertising.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
Sings that are not expressly allowed in this Chapter shall be expressly prohibited, including those listed below.
A. 
Signs Not Specifically Allowed or Illegally Erected. A sign, sign structure, or advertising device that is not specifically allowed by the zone regulations in which the sign is located, or which may have been erected in violation of the laws in effect at time of erection, is prohibited.
B. 
Signs located on or affixed to trucks, automobiles, trailers, or other vehicles parked or standing on a public street which advertise, identify, or provide direction to a use or activity.
C. 
Mobile billboards, rotating or revolving signs, all roof-mounted signs, any type of balloon signs, air dancers, person(s) in costume, handheld signs, a-frame signs, air dancers and any blow-up advertising are prohibited.
D. 
No signs and/or other advertising shall be designed to flash and/or blink on and off or be designed to rotate or revolve in such a manner so as to create the illusion of flashing or blinking on and off.
E. 
No signs that may simulate or imitate any traffic control signage or otherwise impair traffic.
F. 
No person shall display or cause or permit to be displayed upon any advertising structure or sign, any statements or words of an obscene, indecent or immoral character, or any picture or illustration of any human figure in such detail as to offend public morals or decency, or any other matter or thing of an obscene, indecent or immoral character (as stated in Business and Professions Code Section 5402 and as may be amended from time to time).
G. 
Animated signs are prohibited.
H. 
Any sign which emits audible sounds shall be prohibited.
I. 
Sign cabinets.
J. 
Flags and pennants. Does not include the display of the flag of the City, United States, State of California or other official flag of government jurisdictions.
K. 
Static billboards.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
General Requirements.
1. 
All signs and/or other advertising shall only be located on the same lot, parcel of land, property or premises with the building structure or use for which such signs or other advertising are intended to serve.
2. 
Building identification signs serving a group or complex of businesses within a single building shall be designed to be uniform in nature.
3. 
Signs shall be designed to be compatible with the architectural style of the main structure or structures on the site where the signs are to be located and shall incorporate matching or similar construction materials, colors, and other design details.
4. 
A building identification sign shall utilize the existing building fascia and the sign or wall shall not project above the roofline.
5. 
All signs and/or other advertising shall not project or be located in any portion of public rights-of-way.
6. 
Any electrical service and facilities provided for signs and/or other advertising shall be installed and located underground and shall be completely concealed from exterior exposure.
B. 
Illumination. The illumination of signs, from either an internal or an external source, shall not cast stray light on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. All illuminated signs shall comply with the following:
1. 
Sign illumination shall not interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties, create a public nuisance, or create public safety hazards. Exterior light sources shall be shielded from view and directed to illuminate only the sign face.
2. 
Signs shall not have blinking, flashing, or intermittent lights or other illumination devices that have changing light intensity, brightness, or color. See Section 18.20.120 (Digital Billboards) for regulations regarding Digital Billboards.
3. 
Any illuminated signs that identifies a business within, or adjacent to, a residential zone shall be turned off within two hours after the business is closed.
4. 
The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness or directed in a manner that will negatively impact residential properties in direct line of sight to the sign.
C. 
Maintenance.
1. 
All signs, together with all supports, braces, guys, and anchors, shall be kept in good repair, including replacement of defective parts, repainting, cleaning, and otherwise maintained in a presentable and undamaged condition at all times.
2. 
The display surface of all signs shall be kept clean, neatly painted, and free from rust and corrosion.
3. 
Any sign or sign structure that is sagging, leaning, fallen, decayed, broken, deteriorated, missing or has inoperative lights, or is in an otherwise dilapidated condition shall be promptly repaired, to the satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator, or removed.
4. 
Any cracked, broken surfaces, malfunctioning lights, missing sign copy, or other non-maintained or damaged portions of a sign shall be repaired or replaced by the property owner within 30 calendar days following notification by the City.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
Sign Area Calculations. For sign applications and permits, all sign plans shall incorporate the following methodology for calculating the area of signs:
1. 
General Area Calculation. Generally, the area of a sign including logos shall be measured as the overall length of the sign multiplied by the overall height of each segment of copy or logo inclusive of background.
2. 
Height of Freestanding Signs. The height of any freestanding sign shall be measured from the uppermost point of the sign/frame, structure to the finished grade immediately below such point.
3. 
Double-Faced Freestanding Identification Signs. Each face of a double-faced sign shall be counted in computing the permitted area of the sign.
4. 
Ascending and descending shapes will be allowed to extend up to 25% beyond the envelop limits provided that the overall allocated square footage is not exceeded. Descender is the part of the lowercase letters, such as "g", "p", and "q", that extends below the other lowercase letters these areas shall be calculated individually and added to the "boxed" area for the main sign body as shown in Figure 18.20.060.A.
Figure 18.20.060.A Ascending and Descending Shapes
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
O-S, Public Facilities and P Zones. In the O-S, public facilities and P zones, all signs and other advertising of any type or kind whatsoever are hereby expressly prohibited, except those specifically approved by the Zoning Administrator or other pertinent reviewing body.
B. 
Residential Zones.
1. 
Table 18.20.070.A (Sign and Advertising for Residential Zones) provides regulations for the size, height, number, and location by type of sign in all residential zones.
Table 18.20.070.A Sign and Advertising Standards for Residential Zones
Nameplate
Size
1 sq. ft.
Height
42 inches
Number
R-M-M and R-M-H Zones: 1 per dwelling unit
Other residential zones: 2 per lot
Real Estate
Size
9 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
2 per lot
Subdivision
Size
150 sq. ft.
Height
12 feet
Number
2 per tract map
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located within the boundaries of the recorded tract map.
Construction
Size
R-M-H zone: 16 sq. ft. Other Residential zones: 12 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
1 per lot
Building Identification
Size
20 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
1 per lot
Location and Additional Regulations
Permitted for the following uses only: churches and related facilities, educational institutions, hospitals, mobile home parks, rest homes, private recreation and PUD Associations.
Only allowed on lots with 3 units or more and shall be located on the wall of a building fronting a dedicated public street.
For corner lots, one sign shall be allowed for each street frontage located on an exterior building wall, facing a public street or right-of-way or located on the side of the building facing off-street parking facilities or vehicular entrance. Church/school combinations may be allowed to have one building identification sign for each use.
Monument Signage
Size
40 sq. ft.
Height
5 feet
Number
1 per lot
Location and Additional Regulations
Permitted for the following uses only: churches and related facilities, educational institutions, hospitals, mobile home parks, rest homes, private recreation and PUD Associations.
Structure to be centered in landscape planter of equal or greater size than total monument structure face area (total of largest two surfaces). The landscape planter must consist of a minimum two feet in depth around perimeter of monument structure. Monument to maintain a minimum of five feet from any right-of-way or sidewalk, and 10 feet from any driveway. Internal illumination permitted, provided no light spillover occurs off site. A graffiti resistant finish is required for the monument base.
Church/school combinations, where the school is accredited for primary or secondary education by a State of California recognized accrediting agency, may have one of the following freestanding signage options:
1)
A maximum of two monument signs, one for each use, separated by a minimum distance of 50 feet; or
2)
A pylon type sign instead of a monument sign for the school portion of the site, consisting of a maximum height of 15 feet, with a two-sided sign face not exceeding eight feet in width and five feet in height. Pylon base to be a minimum of 20% of sign width and designed to conceal structural support of a sign. Internal illumination acceptable. Sign to be located in a planter area consisting of a minimum two feet in depth around sign perimeter. Building identification signage would be limited to school name only.
C. 
Commercial Zones.
1. 
Table 18.20.070.B (Sign and Advertising for the P-A, C-C, CPD, C-G and C-M Zones) provides regulations for the size, height, number, and location by type of sign in the P-A, C-C, CPD, C-G and C-M zones. The size, location, and design of the sign shall be visually complementary and uniform with other signs within the commercial center.
Table 18.20.070.B Sign and Advertising for the P-A, C-C, CPD, C-G and C-M Zones
Nameplate
Size
4 sq. ft.
Height
Business Name, Address and Credit Card Accepted: Maximum 4 inches Hours of Operation: 2 inches
Number
1 per business
Location and Additional Regulations
Located on store front window and front and/or rear doors fronting off-street parking facilities.
Real Estate
Size
24 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
2 per lot
Subdivision
Size
150 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
2 per tract map
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located within the boundaries of the recorded tract map.
Construction
Size
50 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
1 per lot
Directional
Size
6 sq. ft.
Height
42 inches
Number
1
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located next to each driveway entrance or exit from off-street parking facilities
Pedestrian-Oriented
Size
4 sq. ft. (sign copy area 3 sq. ft. maximum)
Number
1 per public entrance of business
Location and Additional Regulations
Located within 5 feet horizontal of public entrance sign is intended to serve. Shall not be closer than 15 feet from any other pedestrian-oriented sign.
Shall maintain minimum of eight feet vertical height clearance from the bottom of the sign to the level of pedestrian walkway and no portion of the sign shall project into any driveway, off-street parking area, public right-of-way, roadway, or alley.
Signs shall be double-faced and limited to ground floor tenants, all portions of the sign shall project out a maximum of five feet, sign support and brackets shall be compatible and architecturally integrated, and in cases where the minimum 15-foot distance requirement between pedestrian-oriented signs cannot be accommodated approval may be granted at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
Signs shall only indicate the name of the tenant for which the sign is intended to serve; all proposals to include signage relating to services rendered or to the use conducted in the building shall be approved for façades with lengths over 50 feet at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
Building Identification, Wall-Mounted or Parallel-Projecting
Size
3 sq. ft. for each front linear foot of building. 175 sq. ft. maximum
Number
1 per business
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located on an exterior building wall fronting a public street.
There shall be no more than 1 primary building identification sign located on the front elevation. Secondary signage may be located on the rear of such building and/or where an entrance opens onto improved off street parking facilities or onto a public alley. In the C-N, C-M and P-A zones secondary signage shall be no more than 35 square feet, in the C-G zone no more than 100 square feet.
Secondary signage limited to allowable commercial uses for end tenants of a commercial center and the sides of a free-standing commercial building, provided that signage fronts on a public street.
Where there is more than one building used for the same business, under the same control or ownership, such building may have one building identification sign pertaining and relating to such business.
Signs shall only indicate the name of the tenant for which the sign is intended to serve; any and all proposals to include signage relating to services rendered or to the use conducted in the building shall be approved for façades with lengths over fifty feet at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
The primary tenant occupying a single user building with street facing frontage of at least 150 feet and building size of 25,000 square feet or more will be considered an anchor tenant. Such an anchor tenant will be allowed up to two additional secondary signs located on primary frontage. Such signage must relate to the existing business located within the structure, (such as "Bakery" associated with a grocery store), or related to a separate subtenant located within the primary business (such as "XYZ Savings" with a grocery store) which has an approved office located within. Each such sign is restricted in size to a maximum of 100 square feet. Such signage must consist of single channel letter.
Freestanding Identification
Size
1 square foot of sign area per linear foot of street frontage to a maximum of 175 sq. ft. Maximum sign area to include the combined total of each sign face.
Height
25 feet
Number
1 per lot
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located on same lot with the business it is intended to serve. Freestanding identification allowed on corner lots or lots with street frontage of no less than 150 feet.
Freestanding identification signs are only permitted when there is no more than 1 business in a building on a separate lot or parcel of land.
Freestanding Complex
Size
2 sq. ft. for each 25 feet front linear foot of building. May increase 3 sq. ft. for each 1 foot setback from nearest property line to a maximum of 200 sq. ft.
Height
25 feet
Number
1 per lot
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located on same lot with business it is intended to serve.
Freestanding complex allowed on corner lots or lots with street frontage of no less than 150 feet.
Monument Signage
Size
30 sq. ft.
Height
5 feet
Number
1 per lot
Location and Additional Regulations
Monument signage shall not be permitted on lots with freestanding identification and complex signage.
Structure to be centered in landscape planter of equal or greater size than total monument structure face area (total of largest 2 surfaces). The landscape planter must consist of a minimum 2 feet in depth around perimeter of monument structure. Monument to maintain a minimum of 5 feet from any right-of-way or sidewalk, and 10 feet from any driveway. Internal illumination permitted, provided no light spillover occurs off site. A graffiti resistant finish is required for the monument base.
Creative Signage
Regulations
See Section 18.20.080 (Creative Signage).
Shall be located on same lot with business it is intended to serve.
Such signs shall only indicate the name of the tenant for which the sign is intended to serve; any and all proposals to include signage relating to services rendered or to the use conducted in the building shall be approved for façades with lengths over 50 feet at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
Window Signage
Size
Not to exceed 25% of any window area of each building side fronting a public street or off-street parking facility.
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located within 15 feet of window(s) fronting a public street or off-street parking facility. Signage must be consolidated within 1 area.
Merchandise display located within 5 feet of the face of the window is limited to 50%. If a combination of window signs and merchandise is displayed, the combined display shall not exceed 25%.
D. 
Industrial Zones.
1. 
Table 18.20.070.C (Sign and Advertising for the Industrial Zones) provides regulations for the size, height, number, and location by type of sign in the industrial zones.
Table 18.20.070.C Sign and Advertising for the Industrial Zones
Nameplate
Size
4 sq. ft.
Number
1 per business
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located above entrance doorway.
Real Estate
Size
54 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
2 per lot
Subdivision
Size
150 sq. ft.
Height
12 feet
Number
2 per tract map
Construction
Size
54 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
1 per lot
Directional
Size
6 sq. ft.
Height
42 inches
Number
1
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located next to each driveway entrance or exit from off-street parking facilities.
Pedestrian-Oriented
Size
4 sq. ft. (sign copy area 3 sq. ft. maximum)
Number
1 per public entrance of business
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located within 5 ft. horizontal of public entrance sign is intended to serve and shall not be closer than 15 ft. from any other pedestrian oriented sign.
Pedestrian-oriented and parallel-projecting signs shall maintain minimum of eight feet vertical height clearance from the bottom of the sign to the level of pedestrian walkway and no portion of the sign shall project into any driveway, off-street parking area, public right-of-way, roadway, or alley.
Such signs shall only indicate the name of the tenant for which the sign is intended to serve; all proposals to include signage relating to services rendered or to the use conducted in the building shall be approved for façades with lengths over fifty feet at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
Building Identification, Wall-Mounted or Parallel-Projecting
Size
3 sq. ft. for each front linear foot of building. 300 sq. ft. maximum
Number
1 per business
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located on an exterior building wall fronting a public street.
There shall be no more than one primary building identification sign located on the front elevation. Secondary signage may be located on the rear of such building and/or where an entrance opens onto improved off street parking facilities or onto a public alley. In the I-L and I-G zones secondary signage shall be no more than 150 square feet.
Such signs shall only indicate the name of the tenant for which the sign is intended to serve; any and all proposals to include signage relating to services rendered or to the use conducted in the building shall be approved for façades with lengths over 50 feet at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
Pedestrian-oriented and parallel-projecting signs shall maintain minimum of eight feet vertical height clearance from the bottom of the sign to the level of pedestrian walkway and no portion of the sign shall project into any driveway, off-street parking area, public right-of-way, roadway, or alley.
Parallel-projecting signs shall be attached to, or an integral part of a projecting architectural feature, installed parallel to and confined within the limits of the façade of the business the subject sign is intended to serve with only one display surface. Cabinet signs are not permitted as parallel-projecting signs.
Freestanding Complex
Size
1 sq. ft. for each front linear foot of building. May increase 1 sq. ft. for each 1-foot setback from nearest property line to a maximum of 250 sq. ft.
Height
25 feet
Number
1 per lot
Location and Additional Regulations
Shall be located on the same lot with business it is intended to serve.
Freestanding complex allowed on corner lots or lots with street frontage of no less than 250 feet.
Such signs shall be located in a landscaped planting area equal in size to the total area of the sign, and such landscaped area shall be exclusive of any landscaped planting areas required for off-street parking facilities.
Freestanding complex signs are only permitted when there is more than one business in a building on a separate lot or parcel of land. Such sign is for the advertising of all the businesses within the complex. Individual businesses are not permitted on individual freestanding signs.
Such signs shall only indicate the name of the tenant for which the sign is intended to serve; any and all proposals to include signage relating to services rendered or to the use conducted in the building shall be approved for façades with lengths over 50 feet at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
Monument Signage
Size
50 sq. ft.
Height
6 feet
Number
1 per business
Location and Additional Regulations
Structure to be centered in landscape planter of equal or greater size than total monument structure face area (total of largest two surfaces). The landscape planter must consist of a minimum two feet in depth around perimeter of monument structure. Monument to maintain a minimum of five feet from any right-of-way or sidewalk, and 10 feet from any driveway. Internal illumination permitted, provided no light spillover occurs off-site. A graffiti resistant finish is required for the monument base.
Creative Signage
Regulations
See Section 18.20.080 Creative Signage.
Shall be located on the same lot with business it is intended to serve.
Such signs shall only indicate the name of the tenant for which the sign is intended to serve; any and all proposals to include signage relating to services rendered or to the use conducted in the building shall be approved for façades with lengths over fifty feet at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator.
Digital Billboard
Size
Maximum of 1,200 total sq. ft. per sign face
Height
75 feet as measured from the bottom of the electronic billboard supports to the highest point of the sign face.
Number
1 digital billboard structure consisting of up to 2 faces.
Location and Additional Regulations
In any area within 60 feet of the 605 Freeway rights-of-way boundary.
See Section 18.20.120 Digital Billboards.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
Intent. The intent of a creative sign is to encourage signs of unique design that exhibit a high degree of imagination, inventiveness, and spirit and provide a process that will allow creatively designed signs that make a positive visual contribution to the overall image of the City, while mitigating the impacts of large or unusually designed signs.
B. 
Design Criteria. When approving a creative sign, the approving authority shall ensure that a proposed sign meets the following:
1. 
Design Quality. The sign shall constitute a substantial aesthetic improvement to the site and shall have a positive visual impact on the surrounding area, be of unique design and exhibit a high degree of imagination, inventiveness, and spirit, and provide a strong graphic character through the imaginative use of color, graphics, proportion, quality materials, scale, and texture.
2. 
Contextual Criteria. The sign shall contain at least one of the following elements classic historic design style, demonstrated trademark or logo is integral to the business, creative image reflecting current or historic character of the City, or inventive representation of the use, name, or logo of the structure or business.
3. 
Architectural Criteria. The sign shall utilize the architectural elements of the building, be placed in a logical location in relation to the overall composition of the building's façade and not cover any key architectural features or details of the façade.
4. 
Impact to Surrounding Uses. The sign shall be located and designed not to cause light and glare impacts nor a public nuisance on surrounding uses, especially residential uses, nor threaten the health, safety, and welfare of the public. Any and all impacts shall be mitigated to eliminate any possible public nuisance to surrounding uses.
C. 
Approval Authority. Subject to a Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Section 18.05.030 (Conditional Use Permits) and shall be subject to the findings as herein modified:
1. 
The proposed signage is consistent with the purpose of creative signage and meets all design criteria within Section 18.20.080B.
2. 
The proposed project can be adequately conditioned so as not to endanger, jeopardize, or otherwise constitute a menace to the public convenience, health, interest, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or working in the neighborhood of the proposed use;
3. 
The new structure is compatible with the scale, bulk and mass of existing structures in the vicinity of the subject property, and does not impair the integrity and character of the zoning district in which it is to be located;
4. 
That the creative design is not close to other design features, signage that causes an over-bearing visual nuisance;
5. 
That adequate consideration for the protection of the environment has been satisfactorily demonstrated; and
6. 
The granting of such creative sign approval will be consistent with the provisions and objectives of the general plan.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of a Master Sign Program is to ensure that a project's buildings and signs present a unified design statement. A Master Sign Program provides a means for the flexible application of sign regulations for projects that require multiple signs.
B. 
Applicability. A Master Sign Program shall be required whenever any of the following circumstances exist:
1. 
New developments and existing developments conducting site renovations, with more than three nonresidential tenants require submittal of a master sign program establishing criteria of uniform letter style, color, dimensions, area and placement.
2. 
Centers with more than three nonresidential tenants must first obtain approval of a master sign program.
C. 
Application. A completed application shall be submitted to the Community and Economic Development Department for review and approval. An application fee shall be paid at the time of submittal as established in the fee schedule set forth in resolution adopted by the City Council.
D. 
Program Information Requirements. The master sign program shall include, but is not limited to, the following information:
1. 
A site plan of the property with dimensions that identifies all proposed signs.
2. 
Building elevations drawn to scale that identify the location of all proposed building attached signs, tenant doors, windows and architectural building elements such as arches, columns etc.
3. 
A sign table that lists each tenant suite with storefront dimensions (length and height) that identifies the maximum area allotted for all building attached signs.
4. 
Written guidelines that include:
a. 
Purpose and intent.
b. 
Written general requirements and approval process by property owner or management company.
c. 
Approved sign design styles, lighting and colors.
d. 
Description of prohibited signs.
e. 
Construction requirements.
f. 
Installation requirements.
g. 
Tenant guarantee and insurance requirements.
E. 
Approval.
1. 
Zoning Consistency Review. A sign program that complies with all the requirements of this Chapter shall be processed as a Zoning Consistency Review.
2. 
Conditional Use Permit. A sign program that deviates from the standards of this Chapter, and/or includes signs that are subject to the approval of a Conditional Use Permit, shall be processed as a Conditional Use Permit, pursuant to the requirements of Section 18.05.030 (Conditional Use Permits).
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
Applicability. All promotional advertising shall comply with the standards provided in this Section. Promotional Advertising shall only be permitted in the C-C, C-G, C-M and CPD zones provided that a Promotional Advertisement Permit shall be obtained from the Zoning Administrator prior to the display of the temporary sign.
B. 
Purpose. In addition to the purpose of the chapter, the purpose of this Section is to ensure that promotional advertising does not create a distraction to the traveling public by limiting the proliferation of temporary signs. Further, the purpose if this Section includes eliminating aesthetic blight in Pico Rivera that is detrimental to public health, safety, and general welfare.
C. 
Fees. There shall be a permit issuance fee and cash bond in amounts established by a resolution of the city council posted with the City to guarantee the removal of such promotional advertising upon termination of the permit time period. The application fee for new businesses shall be waived for the initial promotional advertising banner permit within the first 30 days of business operations, all other regulations shall remain in effect and a cash bond is required for each application submitted.
D. 
General Standards for All Promotional Advertising.
1. 
Unless otherwise specified, the number, size, location and consecutive display days of promotional advertising shall be at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator subject to the condition that all promotional advertising is orderly, legible and kept in pristine conditions and constructed of durable material that will not deteriorate during the time period in which it is displayed.
2. 
Allowed Signs. Banners are allowed in the zones provided in this Section.
3. 
Exemption. During December 1st through January 2nd holiday season businesses are allowed to display holiday greetings in windows without a permit provided that such window signage does not exceed 21 consecutive days.
4. 
No banners shall be installed, placed, erected, constructed, painted, attached to or project above the roof of any building, or be located in any portion of the public rights-of-way. Such signs and/or other advertising, when determined to be an integral part of a building or which possess such architectural values and characteristics as to make or be impractical their being subject to the provisions of this Chapter, shall be subject to the review, approval or conditional approval of the Zoning Administrator or other pertinent reviewing body.
5. 
It shall be unlawful for any person doing business in California and advertising to consumers in California to make any false or misleading advertising claim as defined in Business and Professions Code Section 17508 as may be amended from time to time.
E. 
Time Limitation. No promotional advertising permit shall be issued for a period of time exceeding ninety consecutive days. The cumulative display days issued to the same business, permittee, or location during any one calendar year shall not exceed 180 days. A promotional advertising permit shall not be issued until a minimum of seven days has expired from the ending date of the last promotional advertising permit approval.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
Any nonconforming sign and/or other advertising, or any portion thereof, which is removed or structurally altered, shall only be replaced or altered structurally with signs or other advertising which conform to the regulations as specified in this Chapter.
B. 
Every sign in existence on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Chapter, and which was legal at the time of installation, and which does not conform to the provisions of this Chapter, is a legal, nonconforming sign. The following requirements shall apply to all legal, nonconforming signs.
C. 
A nonconforming sign shall not be:
1. 
Changed to another nonconforming sign;
2. 
Structurally altered to extend its useful life;
3. 
Expanded;
4. 
Reestablished after a business has been discontinued for 60 calendar days;
D. 
No new sign shall be approved for a site, structure, building, or use that contains nonconforming signs unless such nonconforming signs are removed or modified to conform with the provisions of this Chapter.
E. 
No building permit or discretionary permit shall be issued for any structures, building expansion, or new building construction on a site which contains nonconforming signs, unless all signs on the site are brought into conformance with this Chapter. This does not apply to interior alterations which do not substantially change the character or intensity of the site.
F. 
Maintenance and Repair. Any sign currently in use that was legally installed but does not conform to the requirements of this Chapter may continue with routine maintenance and repair, such as repainting, or replacement of the sign face or sign copy. No enlargement or physical change or the construction of additional sign area is permitted. For the purposes of this Section "physical change" means any type of change to the structure of a sign.
G. 
Restoration of Damaged Signs. As determined by the Zoning Administrator, whenever 50% or less of a nonconforming sign is destroyed by fire or other calamity (not including intentional acts), the sign may be restored to its nonconforming condition and the sign modified as necessary to comply with current code requirements. Any nonconforming sign destroyed by more than 50% of its assessed value shall not be restored unless it is brought into compliance with the provisions of this Chapter.
H. 
Abatement Procedures. A sign or other advertising device regulated by this Chapter that is deemed by the Zoning Administrator or other authorized individual to be unsafe or hazardous to the public health, safety, or welfare or that has been constructed, erected, or maintained in violation of the provisions outlined in this Chapter or other applicable code shall be considered a public nuisance. The property owner or responsible person(s) shall be given written notice to correct and/or remove the sign violation within 30 days from the date of receipt of a written order of abatement from the Zoning Administrator requiring the removal or alteration. If the responsible person(s) or property owner fails to alter or remove the structure to comply with the regulations detailed in this Chapter within 10 days, the unsafe or unauthorized sign may be removed or altered by the City at the expense of the responsible person(s) or owner. A sign or advertising device that presents an immediate threat to the public safety may be removed without notice.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)
A. 
Purpose and Intent. Digital billboards are recognized as a legitimate form of commercial advertising in the City; however, the size, number, location, and illumination of digital billboards can have significant influence on the City's visual character and quality of life and can, without appropriate controls, create or contribute to visual blight conditions. The purpose and intent of this Section are to allow for development of digital billboards in a planned manner in accordance with the regulations and standards established herein.
B. 
General Requirements.
1. 
The requirements of this Chapter shall apply to the development and construction of any new digital billboard permitted under this code, the expansion, and the modification of an existing digital billboard, including the construction of additional face(s) and/or the digital conversion of an existing billboard.
2. 
Digital billboards shall be permitted within the identified areas along the California Interstate 605 Freeway only after a development agreement has been negotiated and executed between the digital billboard operator and City ("Agreement") in accordance with the terms of this Section. The Agreement shall include specific public benefits to be provided to the City.
3. 
A billboard or digital billboard in existence on the effective date of the ordinance enacting this provision pursuant to a prior agreement (including any amendments or extensions thereof) may be relocated and rebuilt as a digital billboard within the area permitted under Section 18.20.120 of this Chapter. All digital billboards shall comply with this Chapter and all applicable requirements of the California Business and Professions Code and the California Code of Regulations. Pursuant to Section 5412 of the California Business and Professions Code, the Agreement may include provisions related to the relocation or removal of billboards in areas inside or outside the boundaries of the City of Pico Rivera.
4. 
In accordance with the California Business and Professions Code Section 5440, digital billboards not associated with relocation as described in Subsection B.3 above shall only be allowed in those areas not designated as "landscaped freeways" as defined under California Business and Professions Code Section 5216, unless otherwise permitted by State law within Areas 1 and 2 as listed below.
Area 1
Area 2
5. 
In the event of any conflict between any provision contained in this Chapter and any other provisions contained elsewhere in this code, the provisions of this Chapter shall govern.
6. 
No new digital billboard shall be approved, and no existing billboard shall be relocated, converted, or modified without the applicant first providing proof of legal or equitable interest in the site proposed for new construction, relocation or modification, including, but not limited to, a fee interest, lease, easement or other entitlement, demonstrating the right to install and operate the billboard on the subject property. Information to be provided shall include the written consent of the property owner.
7. 
No digital billboard shall be approved for construction, modification, or expansion, and no digital billboard may be maintained, unless the applicant provides evidence that a designated maintenance service is available by telephone and able to respond to a repair call "24/7" in the event a digital billboard becomes damaged or is malfunctioning.
8. 
All digital billboard agreements shall include requirements that applicants obtain all additional Federal and/or State permits for installation. Nothing contained in this Chapter shall require the City to negotiate and/or approve an Agreement on terms that are unacceptable to the City.
9. 
The owner and operator of the digital billboard shall comply with all applicable Federal, State, or local laws when constructing, operating, improving, maintaining, repairing, and removing the digital billboard, including the Highway Beautification Act of 1965 (23 U.S.C. Section 131), the Outdoor Advertising Act (California Business and Professions Code, Section 5200 et seq.), the regulations promulgated to implement the Outdoor Advertising Act (4 Cal. Code Regulations, Section 2242(c) et seq.).
C. 
Physical Requirements.
1. 
The minimum distance between digital billboards, static billboards, or digital billboards to static billboards shall be the same as the minimum distance and separation criteria established by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). All distances shall be measured along the nearest edge of the pavement between points directly opposite the signs along each side of the highway.
2. 
All utilities for a digital billboard shall be underground.
3. 
No digital billboard shall have more than one digital face (display surface) oriented in the same vertical plane.
4. 
The maximum total digital billboard face area on any vertical plane for any digital billboard shall be a maximum of 1,200 square feet per sign face;
5. 
The maximum height of any digital billboard including non-digital sign faces shall be 75 feet as measured from the bottom of the billboard supports to the highest point of the sign face.
6. 
Digital billboards shall plainly display, and be visible from no less than 100 feet, the name of the person or company owning or maintaining digital billboard and the digital billboard identification number.
7. 
Digital billboards projecting over a driveway or driving aisle shall have a minimum clearance of 30 feet between the lowest point of the sign and the finished driveway grade. Digital billboards shall comply with any California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) requirements for placement and operation. No part of any Digital Billboard shall cross onto an adjacent private or public property.
8. 
Digital billboards projecting over a pedestrian walkway shall have a minimum clearance of 30 feet between the lowest point of the sign and the walkway grade.
9. 
Digital billboards not projecting over drive areas shall have a minimum clearance of 30 feet between the lowest point of the digital billboard and finish grade level.
10. 
Digital billboard structures shall be free of any visible bracing, angle iron, guy wires, cable, and/or similar supporting elements. All exposed portions of a digital billboard, including backs, sides, structural support members and support poles, shall be screened to the satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator.
11. 
Digital billboards shall be placed at least 250 feet from any residential zone or residential use, unless it is determined by the Zoning Administrator that based on the photometric study required under Subsection F.1.h that there is no significant additional light intrusion than if the digital billboards are placed at least 250 feet away. The measurement shall be from the closest edge of the billboard to the closest edge of the residential zone or closest property line on which a residential use is located.
D. 
Operational Requirements.
1. 
No digital billboard shall display any statement or words of an obscene, indecent, or immoral character, as that phrase is used in Business and Professions Code Section 5402 and judicial decisions interpreting the same.
2. 
Each digital billboard shall be connected to the National Emergency Network and provide emergency information, including child abduction alerts (i.e., "Amber Alerts"), in accordance with local and regional first responder protocols.
3. 
Digital Billboard Operating Requirements.
a. 
Each static message shall not include flashing lights or the varying of light intensity.
b. 
Minimum display time. Each message shall be displayed for a minimum of four seconds.
c. 
Digital billboards shall not operate at brightness levels of more than 0.3 foot candles above ambient light, as measured using a foot candle meter, at a pre-set distance as set forth under this Section.
d. 
Pre-set distances to measure the foot candles impact vary with the expected viewing distances of each size sign and shall comply with Table 18.20.120.A (Face Size/Distance to Point of Measurement).
Table 18.20.120.A Face Size/Distance to Point of Measurement
Face Size
Distance to Point of Measurement
12 feet x 25 feet
150 feet
10.5 feet x 36 feet
200 feet
14 feet x 48 feet
250 feet
20 feet x 60 feet
350 feet
e. 
Each digital billboard shall have a light sensing device that will automatically adjust the brightness as ambient light conditions change.
4. 
Each digital billboard shall be designed and operated with systems and monitoring in place to either turn the display off or show full black screen in the event of a malfunction.
5. 
Walls or screens at the base of the digital billboard or other support structures shall not create a hazard to public safety or provide an attractive nuisance and shall be continually maintained free from graffiti.
6. 
Digital billboard shall not be operated in such a fashion as to constitute a hazard to safe and efficient operation of vehicles on streets or freeways and shall comply with all applicable local, State, and Federal laws and regulations. Digital billboards operating in accordance with the operating criteria in Subsection D.3 above shall be deemed to be in compliance with this Subsection.
7. 
Digital billboards shall not simulate or imitate any directional, warning, danger, or information sign, or any other display likely to be mistaken for any permitted sign intended or likely to be construed as giving warning to traffic, for example using such words or phrases as "stop" or "slow down."
8. 
Digital billboards shall not incorporate or involve any red or blinking or intermittent lighting that may be mistaken for warning or danger signals nor shall its illumination impair the vision of travelers on the adjacent freeway and for roadways.
9. 
Digital billboards shall be operated and maintained in compliance with Business and Professions Code Section 5403.
E. 
The requirements set forth under Subsections B, C, and D of this Section shall be in addition to any other conditions and requirements contained in the Agreement provided they are not in conflict. If any condition or requirement imposed in an Agreement conflicts with the general requirements set forth in these Subsections B, C, and D, the general requirements of Subsections B, C, and D shall control. For purposes of this Subsection, conditions or requirements contained in an Agreement that are more restrictive than those contained in the general requirements of Subsections B, C, and D shall not be deemed in conflict.
F. 
Application Requirements and Review Procedures.
1. 
Application Requirements. An entity wishing to erect a new digital billboard, relocate an existing nonconforming or conforming billboard or modify and convert an existing billboard into a digital billboard shall submit a request in writing for approval of an Agreement as described under Subsection B of this Section that includes the following:
a. 
The name, address phone number and other contact information of the person or entity proposing the Agreement.
b. 
The location of the proposed digital billboard.
c. 
Information that establishes that the entity proposing the Agreement has legal or equitable interest in the proposed new or relocated billboard along with proof of legal or equitable interest in the site proposed for the above said purpose(s), including, but not limited to, a fee interest, lease, license, easement, or other entitlement demonstrating the right to install and operate the billboard on the subject property. Information to be provided shall include the written consent of the property owner if not readily ascertainable from the foregoing documents.
d. 
Conceptual design drawings of the digital billboard that includes technical specifications to determine the digital billboard's compliance with this Section.
e. 
An explanation of the compensation to be paid or public benefits to be provided to the City.
f. 
Photos of all existing signage, architectural renderings, and elevations of the proposed digital billboard and a scaled site plan and elevations showing the locations of all existing structures and improvements on the property, and the proposed digital billboard and related structures and improvements.
g. 
Photo simulations shall be provided of the before and after physical site appearance from views as specified by the Zoning Administrator.
h. 
A photometric study prepared by a certified lighting engineer demonstrating the proposed digital billboard's compliance with the operational requirements of this Section.
i. 
The applicant shall pay a filing fee as set by resolution of the city council. This fee shall be in addition to any other required fees for permits relative to the development of the property and shall be for the purpose of defraying the costs associated with City's review of the application.
j. 
The applicant shall pay the cost of any environmental studies and reports necessary for the completion of the environmental review of the proposal pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Public Resources Code Sections 21000 through 21189.
k. 
Such other documents, materials, or information deemed reasonably necessary by the Zoning Administrator.
2. 
Review Authority.
a. 
The Agreement shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission at a duly noticed public hearing. The public hearing shall be noticed in accordance with Section 18.04.040 (Public Noticing and Hearings). The Planning Commission shall review the Agreement and make a recommendation to City Council whether the proposed digital billboard meets the required findings provided in Subsection F.3 (Required Findings) below.
b. 
The City Council shall conduct a duly noticed public hearing following the Planning Commission recommendation to consider approval of the Agreement by ordinance. The hearing before the City Council shall be noticed in accordance with Section 18.04.040 (Public Noticing and Hearings) of this Title and may be continued from time to time. In order to approve a digital billboard Agreement, the City Council shall make all of the findings contained in Subsection F.3 below.
3. 
Required Findings. The City Council shall find that the proposed digital billboard identified in the Agreement satisfies all of the following findings:
a. 
The proposed Agreement is consistent with the goals, objectives, purposes and provisions of the General Plan, the Pico Rivera Municipal Code, and any applicable Specific Plans;
b. 
The proposed installation site is compatible with the uses and structures on the site and in the surrounding area;
c. 
The proposed digital billboard would not create a traffic or safety problem, including problems associated with on-site access circulation or visibility;
d. 
The proposed digital billboard would not interfere with on-site parking or landscaping required by City ordinance or permit;
e. 
The proposed digital billboard would not otherwise result in a threat to the general health, safety and welfare of City residents; and
f. 
The proposed digital billboard, in addition to its aesthetic treatment, provides substantial public benefits that would not otherwise accrue to the public in the absence of its installation.
(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)