HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 1992 0415 CC REG ITEM 09FITEM '
MOORPARK
799 Moorpark Avenue Moorpark, California 93021,_„ (F0) 529 -6864
M E M O R A N D U M B
TO: The Honorable City Council
FROM: Patrick J. Richards, Director of Community Development T,
DATE: April 6, 1992 (CC Meeting of 4- 15 -92)
SUBJECT: AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE 10 OF ZONING CODE PERTAINING TO
SIGNS IN PUBLIC RIGHT —OF —WAY
Background
On April 1, 1992, the City Council adopted a resolution directing
the Planning Commission to set a public hearing and provide a
recommendation regarding amending Article 10, Sign Requirements, of
Division 8 of Chapter 1 (Zoning Code) of the Moorpark Municipal
Code pertaining to signs in public right -of -way. The Council
initiated this Zoning Code amendment because Sections 8110 -4.1 and
8110.5.4.1 of Article 10 are currently conflict'
ing.
Discussion
After analyzing the necessary revisions to Article 10 to eliminate
inconsistencies regarding signs in public right -of -way, staff
determined that numerous revisions would be required. For example,
if all signs within the public right -of -way are prohibited, signs
which project or hang over the public sidewalk area in the downtown
area could not be allowed. Also, a flat prohibition against signs
in the public right -of -way would make it illegal to place a
sandwich, "A" frame type sign within the sidewalk area in the
downtown area. Staff, therefore, provided the Planning Commission
with the types of revisions which would be required to Article 10
to more clearly identify what types of signs could be permitted and
what types of signs should be clearly prohibited in the public
right -of -way (refer to Attachment 2, Planning Commission Staff
Report). Due to the numerous revisions that would be required to
Article 10, staff recommended to the Planning Commission that their
public hearing be continued until such time that they set a public
hearing to comprehensively review Article 10 consistent with a
resolution adopted by the City Council at your April 1, 1992
meeting.
PAUL W. LAWRASON JR. JOHN E. WOZNIAK SCOTT MONTGOMERY BERNARDO M. PEREZ ROY E. TALLEY JR.
Mayor Mayor Pro Tern Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember
Pnnted On Recycled Pane,
The Honorable City Council
April 6, 1992
Page -2-
On April 6, 1992, the Planning Commission adopted a resolution
(Attachment 1) recommending that the City Council continue its
scheduled April 15, 1992, public hearing regarding signs in public
right -of -way until after such time as the Planning Commission
studies and holds a public hearing to review all of the Zoning Code
Article 10 sign regulations to allow a more comprehensive approach
for required amendments.
Recommendation
1. Planning Commission Recommendation: Refer to attached
Planning Commission Resolution (Attachment 2).
2. Staff Recommendation: That the City Council open and close
the public hearing and take this matter off the calendar until
the Planning Commission completes its review and
recommendation.
Attachments:
Attachment 1 - Planning Commission Resolution
.- Attachment 2 - Planning Commission Staff Report dated 3 -27 -92
PJR /DST
ATTACHMENT 1
,-- RESOLUTION NO. PC -92 -261
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CONTINUE ITS SCHEDULED
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDING ARTICLE
10, OF THE ZONING CODE PERTAINING TO SIGNS IN
PUBLIC RIGHT -OF -WAY
WHEREAS, at a duly noticed public hearing on April 6, 1992,
the Moorpark Planning Commission considered a proposed amendment to
Article 10, Division 8, Chapter 1 (Zoning Code) of the Moorpark
Municipal Code pertaining to revising regulations for signs in
public right -of -way; and
WHEREAS, the City Council on April 1, 1992, initiated Planning
Commission review of all of Article 10, Sign Regulations, Moorpark
Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, at its meeting of April 6, 1992, the Planning
Commission considered said proposed amendment to Article 10 of the
Zoning Code pertaining to signs in public right -of -way at a public
hearing, and continued the public hearing until such time that the
Planning Commission sets a public hearing to comprehensively review
all of Article 10;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA, DOES RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. That the Planning Commission hereby recommends
that the City Council continue its scheduled April 15, 1992, public
hearing regarding amending Article 10 of the Zoning Code pertaining
to signs in public right -of -way until after such time as the
Planning Commission studies and holds a public hearing to review
all of the Article 10 sign regulations to allow a more
comprehensive approach for required amendments.
The action with the foregoing direction was approved by the
following roll call vote:
AYES: Commissioners May, Miller, Torres, and Brodsky and
Chairman Wesner
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Resolution No. PC -92 -261
Page 2
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF APRIL, 1992.
Chairman:
Michael H. Wesner, Jr.
ATTEST:
Celia La Fleur
Secretary
ATTACHMENT 2
MOORPARK
ITEM g. � .
799 Moorpark Avenue Moorpark, California 93021 (805) 529 -6864
CITY OF MOORPARK -.:.
PLANNING COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT - March 27, 1992
SECTION I - GENERAL INFORMATION
A. HEARING DATE: B. HEARING TIME:
April 6, 1992 7:00 p.m.
C. HEARING LOCATION: D. CASE NO.:
City Council Chambers Amendment to Article 10 of
799 Moorpark Avenue Zoning Code Pertaining to
Moorpark, CA 93021 Signs in Public R/W
E. STAFF CONTACT: F. APPLICANT:
Deborah S. Traffenstedt City Initiated
Senior Planner
G. PROPOSED PROJECT:
Amendment to Article 10, Sign Requirements, of Division 8 of
Chapter 1 (Zoning Code) of Moorpark Municipal Code pertaining
to signs in public right -of -way. The City Council has
initiated an amendment to the City Zoning Code to revise
current regulations pertaining to signs in public right -of-
way. The intent of the revisions is to more clearly identify
signs which are prohibited.
H. REQUESTED ACTION AND STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
1. Open the public hearing and accept public testimony.
2. Review environmental determination that proposed Zoning
Code amendments are exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) based upon Section
15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines.
3. Adopt attached resolution (Attachment 1) recommending
that the City Council continue its scheduled public
hearing on this matter until after such time as the
Planning Commission studies and holds a public hearing to
review all of the Zoning Code sign regulations; and that
the Planning Commission continue its public hearing on
this matter until such time that the Commission sets a
public hearing to comprehensively review Zoning Code sign
regulations.
1
PAUL W. LAWRASON JR. JOHN E. WOZNIAK SCOTT MONTGOMERY BERNARDO M. PEREZ ROY E. TALLEY JR.
Mayor Mayor Pro Tom Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember
Printed On Recycled Paper
I. BACKGROUND
On April 1, 1992, the City Council adopted a resolution
directing the Planning Commission to set a public hearing to
review Zoning Code regulations pertaining to signs in public
right -of -way and to report back to the Council with a
recommendation. The Council initiated this Zoning Code
amendment because Sections 8110 -4.1 and 8110 -5.4.1 of Article
10 of the Zoning Code are currently conflicting. Section
8110 -4.1 identifies that: "Any sign erected or attached to any
tree or utility pole within any public right -of -way, or any
sign erected within the boundaries of the required right -of-
way for any mapped road as shown on the Circulation Element of
the City General Plan;" is prohibited. Section 8110 -5.4.1
identifies that "Installation of any sign within a City right -
of -way requires an Encroachment permit issued by the
Transportation Department of the Public Works Agency."
Section 8110 -4.1 also needs to be revised to delete the
Circulation Element reference, since all public roadways in
the City are not included on the Circulation Element map.
J. DISCUSSION
Numerous revisions are required to Article 10 of the Zoning
Ordinance in order to eliminate inconsistencies regarding
signs in public right -of -way and to more clearly identify what
signs could be allowed by encroachment permit within the
public right -of -way.
For example, if all signs within the public right -of -way are
prohibited, signs which project or hang over the public
sidewalk area in the downtown area could not be allowed.
Also, a flat prohibition against signs in the public right -of-
way would make it illegal to place a sandwich, "A" frame type
sign within the sidewalk area in the downtown area.
It is staff's understanding that it is the Council's desire to
limit sidewalk signs to the downtown area. Special sign
requirements for specific areas of the City can best be
accomplished by establishing an overlay zone which would be
shown on the Zoning Map. In researching the signs in public
right -of -way issue, staff has made a preliminary determination
that Article 10 of the Zoning Ordinance would need to be
revised similar to what is shown on the following pages to
resolve the inconsistency problem and to clarify specific
types of signs which would be allowed within public rights -of-
way in the downtown area of Moorpark. Proposed additions to
existing Zoning Code language are shown by highlighting and
deletions are shown by strikeout. Sections in Article 10
which are not proposed to be revised are not included on the
following pages. A complete copy of, Article 10 is attached
(Attachment 2).
2
Pronosed Revisions to Article 10 of Zoning Code:
Sec. 8110 -1 - DEFINITIONS
Sec. 8110 -4 - PROHIBITED SIGNS - The following signs and
sign types are prohibited:
a. Sandwic A - tar......or , "A" frame and portable
reestanding::: <::;::; emt ar signs, with the
overlav area
Projecting signs, unless suspended from a canopy in
accordance with Sec. 8110 -6.2, er attaehed te—a
1.
right of way fer
Gir-eulatien Element
any — maimed-- reQd as shewn
the it-y-
eft t-he
e€ - - General Plan;
3
Sec. 8110 -5.4 - Public Rights -of -Way
Sec. 8110 -5.4.1 - Installation of any sign
within a City right -of -way requires an
Encroachment permit issued by the
Sec. 8110 -6 - SPECIFIC REGULATIONS BY TYPE OF SIGN
Sec. 8110 -6.11 - Temporary Signs - are permitted as
follows:
Sec. 8110 - 6.11.123 - Removal - No sign permit for a
temporary sign promoting an event...
4
R. ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
It is staff's recommendation that the proposed Zoning Code
revisions be found categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) . Section 15061(b)(3) of the
State CEQA Guidelines allows an exemption where it can be seen
with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity
in question may have a significant effect on the environment.
L. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
1. That the Planning Commission adopt a resolution recommending
that the City Council continue its scheduled April 15, 1992,
public hearing regarding signs in public right -of -way until
after such time as the Planning Commission studies and holds
a public hearing to review all of the Zoning Code sign
regulations to allow a more comprehensive approach for
required amendments.
2. That the Planning Commission continue the public hearing for
the proposed amendments to Article 10 of the Zoning Code
pertaining to signs in public right -of -way until such time
that the Planning Commission sets a public hearing to
comprehensively review Article 10 of the Zoning Code
consistent with a resolution adopted by the City Council at
their April 1, 1992 meeting.
Prepared by:
Deborah S. Traf enstedt
Senior Planner
Approved by:
Patrick � Richards
Director of Community
Development
Attachments:
1. Draft Resolution
2. Article 10 of Zoning Code
5
ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. PC -92-
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CONTINUE ITS SCHEDULED
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDING ARTICLE
10, OF THE ZONING CODE PERTAINING TO SIGNS IN
PUBLIC RIGHT -OF -WAY
WHEREAS, at a duly noticed public hearing on April 6, 1992,
the Moorpark Planning Commission considered a proposed amendment to
Article 10, Division 8, Chapter 1 (Zoning Code) of the Moorpark
Municipal Code pertaining to revising regulations for signs in
public right -of -way; and
WHEREAS, the City Council on April 1, 1992, initiated Planning
Commission review of all of Article 10, Sign Regulations, Moorpark
Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, at its meeting of April 6, 1992, the Planning
Commission considered said proposed amendment to Article 10 of the
Zoning Code pertaining to signs in public right -of -way at a public
hearing, and continued the public hearing until such time that the
Planning Commission sets a public hearing to comprehensively review
all of Article 10;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA, DOES RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. That the Planning Commission hereby recommends
that the City Council continue its scheduled April 15, 1992, public
hearing regarding amending Article 10 of the Zoning Code pertaining
to signs in public right -of -way until after such time as the
Planning Commission studies and holds a public hearing to review
all of the Article 10 sign regulations to allow a more
comprehensive approach for required amendments.
The action with the foregoing direction was
following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
6
approved by the
Resolution No. PC -92-
Page 2
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF APRIL, 1992.
ATTEST:
Celia La Fleur
Secretary
7
Chairman
_f
ATTACHMENT 2
ARTICLE 10
SIGN REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 8110 -0 - PURPOSE - The purpose of this Article is to promote
traffic safety and the aesthetics of the visual environment of
City through the regulation of all signs within the unincorporated
areas, except in public rights -of -way. Regulations contained
herein are the least burdensome regulations to carry out the above
stated purpose.
Sec. 8110 -1 - DEFINITIONS
Advertising Sign - A sign which calls attention to products,
goods or services for sale or hire, or which otherwise contains
a commercial message.
Attached Sian - Any sign posted, painted on, or constructed or
otherwise attached to the wall, facade, canopy, marquee, or
other architectural part of a building.
Canopy Sign - Any sign attached to or constructed in or on a
canopy or marquee.
Directional Sign - Any sign which serves solely to designate
entrances or exits, or the location or direction of any on -site
area.
Double -faced Sign - A sign structure with messages on both sides
of a sign board or panel; or a sign with two faces that are
attached-to each. other on one side and form an angle of not more
than 30 degrees; or a sign structure with two attached parallel
faces not more than 18 inches apart, with a message on each
face.
Freestanding Sign - Any sign which is anchored directly to the
ground or supported from the ground, or is attached to a
freestanding wall or fence.
Identification Sign - An on -site sign which indicates the
premises, occupants, address, neighborhood or entrance location
to the premises.
Noncommercial Message - A display or statement on a sign which
calls attention to something other than products, goods, or
services for sale or hire. Such messages are permitted on any
type of sign provided that all the standards of this Article are
followed.
Off -site Sign - A sign which displays commercial or
noncommercial messages related to property, goods, services,
^� or ideas not found on, or related to, the property on which the
sign is located.
119
on -site Sign,- A sign located on the same site as the occupant, -
business, trade or profession to which it relates.
Permanent Sign, - A sign intended to be erected and maintained
for a period of more than 60 days.
Political Sign - A temporary sign or handbill erected prior to
an election, excluding leased space on the face of permanent,
legal, off -site advertising signs (billboards).
Projecting Sign - An attached sign which projects outward
perpendicularly or at an angle from a wall or building face.
Real Estate Sign - A sign which advertises the sale, rental or
lease of the property on which it is maintained.
Roof Sign - Any sign erected upon, against or directly above a
roof or on top of or above the parapet of a building.
Sign - A communication device using words or symbols,
illuminated or nonilluminated, which is visible from any public
place or is located on private property and exposed to the
public and which directs attention to a product, service, place,
activity, person, institution, business or solicitation,
including any permanently installed or situated merchandise; or
any emblem, painting, banner, pennant, placard or temporary
display designed to advertise, identify or convey information.
Sign Area
a. Area of Simultaneously Visible Faces - Where the lettered or
illustrative material of a sign is placed upon a sign board
or other sign structure having a continuous or essentially
continuous surface or. face (whether plane, curved, angulated
or otherwise), the background or face area of simultaneously
visible faces of such sign board or sign structure shall be
the sign area. For purposes of computation, single and _
double faced signs are considered to have the same area; in
other words, a double -faced sign having two square feet of
sign copy on each face is considered to have two square feet
of sign area. The Planning Director may require landscaping
or other screening at the open end of a double -faced sign
whose faces are not parallel.
b. Framed Area - Where the lettered or illustrative material of
a sign is not placed as described in a above, but is framed
either mechanically or visually by the design or layout of
the sign itself, then the area so framed shall be the sign
area.
c. Geometric Unframed Figure - Where the lettered or
illustrative material is not placed or framed in the manner
described in a or b above, but is composed either vertically,
horizontally, diagonally or otherwise, essentially in the
form of a rectangle, triangle or similar geometric figure,
the area of the geometric figure within which such material
120
s
could be enclosed shall be-the sign area; except that when
the space between the elements comprising the sign exceeds
11/2 times the average size of the elements themselves, the
area of the elements may be measured separately as provided
in d below.
d. Area of Abutting Rectangles - Where the lettered or
illustrative material is not placed, framed or composed as
described in a, b or c above, the total area of the abutting
rectangles or other simple geometric shapes within which the
individual words, letters, illustrations or other elements
comprising the sign could be enclosed shall be the sign area.
e. Clocks and Thermometers - Time and temperature devices
without advertising copy will not be included in determining
the sign area.
Tract Sign - An off -site sign relating to the original sale of
property other than that on which the sign is constructed.
Window Sian - A sign or combination of signs painted on,
attached to, or designed or placed so as to be read principally
through the windows from outside the structure.
Sec. 8110 -2 - PERMIT REQUIREMENTS - To ensure compliance with the
regulations contained in this Article, a Sign Permit is required
for each nonexempted sign to be erected or maintained, except as
required elsewhere in this Article. Plot plans and elevation
drawings shall be submitted with all Sign Permit applications for
signs. Only signs on one property may be applied for on one
application.
Sec. 8110 -3.- ....EXEMPTED SIGNS.- Except as.. otherwise specified in
this Article and subject to regulations locating signs with
reference to street intersections, freeways, scenic highways and
primary roads, the following signs shall be exempt from the
requirements of this Article: ---
a. Governmental signs providing general information to the
public, and for control of traffic or similar regulatory
purposes, including street signs, danger signs and warnings
at railroad crossings;
b. Memorial tablets or signs not exceeding two square feet,
including those indicating names of buildings and dates of
construction, when cut into any masonry surface or inlaid so
as to be part of the building, or when constructed of bronze
or similar noncombustible material;
c. Signs required to be maintained by law or governmental order,
rule or regulation, with a total surface area not exceeding
ten square feet on any lot; or street address numbers with
r a total surface area not exceeding two square feet;
r
121
d.
Signs which are not visible beyond either the boundaries of
the lot on which they are located, or from any public right -
of -way, or from any parking area, or circulation area open to
the general public;
e.
Flags or seals of the United States of America or the State
of California, or emblems of a civic, philanthropic,
educational or religious organization, when such emblems do
not exceed four square feet in area and, if freestanding,
five feet in height, and such flags or emblems are not used
in connection with a commercial promotion or as an
advertising device;
f.
Parking lot or other private traffic directional signs not
exceeding four square feet in area per sign. Each lot is
permitted one such sign per entrance to the lot or premises,
to direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic on the same
property.
g.
Signs placed by a public utility, conveying information on
the location of facilities in the furtherance of service or
safety;
h.
Freestanding on -site real estate signs 12 square feet or less
in area, having a maximum panel length or height of eight
feet (excluding real estate tract signs);
Temporary construction signs, provided that:
(1) Only one sign is erected per construction site;
(2 ) The sign does not exceed six square feet in open space,
--agricultural and. R- zones, . or 24 square feet in all other
zones;
(3) The sign is used only to indicate the name of the
construction project and the names and locations (state
and city or community only) of the contractors,
architects, engineers, landscape designers, project or
leasing agent, and /or financing company;
(4) The sign is displayed during construction only; and
(5) The sign does not exceed six feet in height if
freestanding.
j.
On -site real estate "for sale" or "for lease" signs less than
12 square feet in area and no higher than 6 feet from
finished grade pertaining to the property displayed within a
window, subject to Sec. 8110 -6.13. Only one such sign is
allowed on each street frontage of the property.
k.
Temporary "open house" signs. Only one such sign is allowed
,
on each street frontage of the property on which the open
house is being held. Such sign may be single- or double-
122
faced and is limited to a maximum of three square feet in
area and four feet in height. Such signs shall contain only
the address of the property where the open house is being
held and the name of the real estate agent or party holding
the open house. Such signs shall be erected and removed on
the same day the open house is held and shall not be fastened
or attached in any way to a building facade or architectural
element.
1. Signs or banners announcing the opening of a new business
which, in the aggregate, do not exceed ten square feet or 25
percent of the window area, whichever is greater. Such signs
may be erected for a maximum of 60 days during the opening of
the new business.
m. Other signs, including political and "no trespassing" signs,
having noncommercial messages and not exceeding two square
feet in area on any lot.
n. Individual window signs not exceeding ten square feet in area
for each business; see also Sec. 8110 -6.13.
Sec. 8110 -4 - PROHIBITED SIGNS - The following signs and sign types
are prohibited:
a. Sandwich - board, A -frame and portable freestanding signs, with
the exception of the signs in the downtown overlay area;
b. Bench signs, except at bus stops designated on a valid bus
schedule;
c. Signs which flash, scintillate, move or rotate, except for
..clocks and-time and temperature signs;
d. Banners, pennants, flags (except as permitted by Sec. 8110 -3e,
3L, or Section 8110 -6.11; no:other flags are permitted);
e. Captive balloons or signs which change color or appear to
change color or where the intensity of light changes or
appears to change, except on a temporary basis in accordance
with Sec. 8110 -6.11;
f. Portable and trailer- mounted off -site advertising or tract
signs;
g. Any sign which emits sound;
h. Any sign erected in such a manner that any portion of the
sign or its support is attached to or will interfere with the
free use of any fire escape, exit or standpipe, or will
obstruct any stairway, door, ventilator or window;
i. Projecting signs, unless suspended from a canopy in
--� accordance with Sec. .8110-6.2, or attached to a service
station canopy roof in accordance with Sec. 8110- 6.9.1;
123
J. Roof signs;
k. Any sign or sign structure which is structurally unsafe or
constitutes a hazard to health or safety by reason of design,
inadequate maintenance or dilapidation;
1. Any sign erected or attached to any tree or utility pole -
within any public right -of -way, or any sign erected within
the boundaries of the required right -of -way for any mapped
road as shown on the Circulation Element of the City General
Plan;
m. Any sign erected in such a manner that it will or may
reasonably be expected to interfere with, obstruct, confuse
or mislead traffic;
n. The use of any item of merchandise or other commodity related
to the business as a sign, except as such commodity may be
permanently incorporated into a sign structure as permitted
by this Article;
o. Signs attached to the exterior surfaces of windows;
p. Off -site signs, except as specifically permitted in Sections
8110 -5.1 and 8110 -5.6.
Sec. 8110 -5 - GENERAL SIGN REGULATIONS - Section 8110 -5.1 sets ,
forth the standards for sign categories, except bench signs,
canopy signs, cooperative display panels, illuminated signs,
political signs, service station signs, symbol signs, temporary
signs and window signs which are set forth in Sec. 8110 -6 below.
The latter section also contains more detailed standards and
__.regulations.applicable to tract signs.
124
r
Jk
Sec. 8110 -5.1 - Sign Standards
Notes
*F =Total street frontage of lot in linear feet.
(a) Only those real estate signs over 12 square feet require
zoning Clearance.
(b) Prohibited in open space zones; see also Sec. 8110 -6.12.
(c) Real estate signs may exceed 12 sq.ft. by one square foot for
each 10 feet by which the width of the lot, or two or more
125
OPEN SPACE, AGRICULTURAL
AND R -ZONES
ON - SITE
OFF --SITE
ATTACHED
I FREESTANDING
FREESTANDING
SIGN
IDENTIFICATION
REAL
ESTATE
TRACT
TYPE
(1)
(a)
(b. k)
MAXIMUM
NUMBER
1
1
1
1
PER LOT
PE ED
LESSER O
LESSER OF
AREA
FEET)
20 OR F&
25 OR 7T
12
(c)
7Z
(SQUARE
MAXIMUM
NOT ABOVE WALL
HEIGHT
TO WHICH IT
5
10
10
(FEET)
IS ATTACHED
MAXIMUM
LENGTH
(d)
10
16
16
(FEET)
COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES
ON - SITE
OFF - SITE
ATTACHED FREESTANDING
FREESTANDING
SIGN
IDENTIFICATION
REAL
ESTATE
ADVERTISING
TRACT
TYPE
(t. k)
MAXIMUM
NUMBER
NO LIMIT
(9)
1
1, IRRESPECTIVE OF TYPE
PER LOT
PERMITTED
GREATER OF 10
12
S:. SEC.
AREA
(h)
OR ; MAX. 200
(C)
8110 -6.7.5
72
(SQUARE FEET)
MAXIMUM
LESSER OF 25 OR
HEIGHT
(�)
HEIGHT OF HIQMST
16
ZS
10
(FEET)
DUILDINC ON SITE
MAXIMUM
'
LENGTH
(d)
25
25
(j)
16
(FEET)
Notes
*F =Total street frontage of lot in linear feet.
(a) Only those real estate signs over 12 square feet require
zoning Clearance.
(b) Prohibited in open space zones; see also Sec. 8110 -6.12.
(c) Real estate signs may exceed 12 sq.ft. by one square foot for
each 10 feet by which the width of the lot, or two or more
125
contiguous lots in single ownership, exceeds 70 feet, to a
maximum ot` 72 square feet.
(d) All signs may cover up to 75% of the length of they wall or
building face on which the sign is located. A sign may wrap
around a corner of a building if the corner is curvef and not
at a 90 degree angle.
(e) Permitted in M -2 zone only; see also Sec. 8110 -6.7.
(f) Permitted on vacant property in C -P -D and M -zones only; see
also Sec.8110 -6.12.
(g) Large sites may have signs 500 feet apart; maximum 200 sq.
ft. of total freestanding sign area per lot. A drive - through
restaurant may have an extra 16- square foot menu board; see
Section 8110 -6.14.
C
(h) Each wall or building face is permitted one square foot of
sign area per linear foot of wall length; maximum 120 square
feet, regardless of the number of signs.
(i) Sign may not extend above the eaves of a gable roof, nor more
than two feet above the face of the canopy or a parapet wall
to which it is attached. No sign may be located higher than
the building roof line.
(j) For 375- square -foot signs, the length may be increased to 36
feet. C'
(k) Prohibited in SHP Overlay Zone; see also Sec. 8109- 4.5.4b.
(1) A sign for a produce stand may have a commercial message; see
Sec.8107 -6.9.
Sec. 8110 -5.2 - Location
Sec. 8110 -5.2.1 - Signs are subject to the structural
setbacks set forth in Section 8106 -1; the setback shall be
measured to the outermost projection of the sign structure
on the side where the setback is being measured. Exceptions
as follows:
a. On -site freestanding signs three feet or less in
height may be located within a setback adjacent to a
street.
b. A sign attached to an existing wall or fence is exempt
from the setback requirements, provided that the sign
does not project beyond any edge of such wall or
fence.
Sec. 8110 -5.2.2 - No sign shall be erected within a sight
-^ triangle unless such sign, in compliance with the i
provisions of this Article, is less than two feet above
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curb grade, and no part of its means of support has a
single or combined horizontal cross section exceeding
eighteen inches.
Sec. 8110 -5.3 - Maintenance - Every sign as permitted by this
Article shall be maintained in good condition. The Planning
Director may require any improperly maintained sign, temporary
or permanent, to be repaired or removed upon the failure of the
owner(s) to repair or remedy a condition of any sign declared by
the Department of Building and Safety to be unsafe, or declared
by the Planning Director to be improperly maintained, within 30
days from the receipt by the owner(s) of a written notice to
that effect.
Sec. 8110 -5.4 - Public_Riahts -of -Wa
Sed. 8110 -5.4.1 - Installation of any sign within a City
right -of -way requires an Encroachment Permit issued by the
N Transportation Department of the Public Works Agency.
Sec. 8110 -5.4.2 - No existing tree shall be.trimmed, pruned
or removed from a City right -of -way to increase the
visibility of any sign, unless such work is first approved
by the Public Works Agency.
Sec. 8110 -5.5 - Measurement of Sign Height - Where the average
grade of the lot on which a sign is placed is at or above the
adjacent street grade, the sign shall be measured from the grade
level adjacent to the sign. Where the average grade of the lot
is below the adjacent street grade, the sign height shall be
measured from the adjacent street grade.
Sec. 8110 -5.6 - Lots Having-No Street Frontage - If a lot has no
street frontage, the easement providing for access to the lot
shall be considered part of said lot for purposes of sign
placement.
Sec. 8110 -6 - SPECIFIC REGULATIONS BY TYPE OF SIGN
Sec. 8110 -6.1 - Bench Signs - are permitted at bus stops
designated on a valid bus schedule. The copy area of such
signs shall be a maximum of four square feet in open space,
agricultural and residential zones, and eight square feet in
commercial and industrial zones. No bench sign shall extend
beyond the edges of the bench backrest.
Sec. 8110 -6.2 - Canopy Signs - may extend to within one foot of
the edge of a canopy from which the sign is suspended. Signs
painted on or affixed to canopies shall be considered part of
the total allowable area of attached signs for that building.
Signs suspended under canopies which project over private or
public walkways or drives open to the public shall be limited to
�. an area of eight square feet per sign.
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Sec. 8110 -6.3 - Clocks and Thermometers - Time and temperature
devices shall have a maximum area of 24 square feet.
Sec. 8110 -6.4 - Display Structures for Pedestrian Viewing - Such
structures are allowed subject to conditions stated inn,,a CUP or
PD Permit in all commercial zones, and may include'%nclosed
display of products sold or bulletin -type advertising stands
which may or may not serve other functional purposes, such as
kiosks, covers for inclement weather and the like, or they may
serve as an additional structural element visually to enhance
pedestrian ways or landscaped or parking areas.
a. Location - Such structures shall not be located in any
required setbacks.
b. Area - The area of pedestrian sign display structures
shall be in accordance with Sec. 8110 -5.1 (matrix), and
may be allowed in addition to sign area otherwise
permitted for the lot.
C. Lighting - Illumination of pedestrian sign display
structures such as kiosks may be by indirect or diffused
light only.
Sec. 8110 -6.5 - Illuminated Signs, - Signs in open space,
agricultural and residential zones may have indirect or diffused
illumination. Illuminated signs in nonresidential zones shall
not exceed the brightness of a diffused light panel having cool
white fluorescent 800 milliampere lights spaced at least ten
inches on center. Sign illumination shall not result in glare
being directed toward surrounding properties. The source of
illumination shall not be visible from a walkway or street.
Sec. 8110 -6.6 - Back- Mounted Freestanding Signs - Any sign
erected on the back of an existing freestanding sign must have
the same exterior dimensions as the existing sign.
Sec. 8110 -6.7 - ' Freestanding Off -Site Advertising Signs - Such
signs are only permitted with a City Council approved
Conditional Use Permit in accordance with Article 11, shall only
be permitted for tract sales only, and are subject to the
following regulations and standards in addition to those listed
in Sec. 8110 -5.1:
Sec. 8110 -6.7.1 - Freestanding off -site advertising signs are
prohibited within Scenic Corridors or if visible from a
Scenic Highway. No such sign shall be established so as to
obstruct the view toward any area of scenic or historic
significance designated by the Planning Commission. The view
of the ocean from a freeway has scenic significance.
Sec. 8110 -6.7.2 - Only uni -pole design is permitted for'such
signs up to 72 square feet in area, and encouraged for all
other signs.
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Sec. 8110 -6.7.3 - Any such sign shall be located at least 500
.-- feet from any other freestanding off -site sign, at least 500
feet from a freeway interchange, at least 50 feet from the
exterior boundaries of a service station site and at least
six feet from any other structure. Such sign-may not extend
beyond the boundaries of the lot on which it is located.
Sec. 8110 -6.7.4 - The back of such sign, if not used for
advertising copy, shall be screened if visible from any
public right -of -way.
Sec. 8110 -6.7.5 - As part of an entitlement process, a sign
program may be required to be submitted by the applicant to
the Department of Community Development for review and
approval by the City. If the approved sign program is in
conflict with the sign code, the more restrictive of the two
shall apply.
Sec. 8110 -6.7.6 - In addition to the permit standards of Sec.
8111- 2.1.2, the following design criteria shall be
considered in the reviewing of all Conditional Use Permit
applications:
a. Sign structures shall be of the most modern design
(with the exception of the downtown area) and
aesthetically attractive type feasible as determined
by the Department of Community Development or approved
r' Planned Development Permit.
b. The number of light fixtures shall be kept to a
minimum and integrated into the design of the
structure.
C. On developed sites, landscaping shall be used to
enhance the appearance of the sign, and to the extent
possible, to allow the sign to blend with the
remainder of the site. __27
d. The use of planter boxes to improve the appearance of
the sign base, and trees to mask the unused side of a
single -faced sign, are encouraged.
e. Sign poles and other non -copy elements shall be made
to blend visually with the color(s) and texture(s) of
the background, including any buildings.
Sec. 8110 -6.7.7 - Noncommercial messages are permitted on
freestanding, off -site advertising signs in accordance with
all requirements of Sec. 8110 -6.7 and Sec. 8110 -5.1.
Sec. 8110 -6.8 - Political Signs - The purpose of this section is
to prevent damage to public property, protect the integrity of
the electoral process and prevent the erosion of aesthetic
,.../ quality and historic values within the City. It is
specifically recognized that if temporary political signs on
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private property are not removed after the election is held, the
deteriorating signs and accumulating debris become a blight,
defacing the landscape. It is therefore an intent of this
Article to make provision for the erection and remova.�'of such
signs after the election which they publicized has be n held.
Sec. 8110 -6.8.1 Political Signs on Private Property - No
temporary political sign shall exceed sixteen square feet in
area. The aggregate area of all temporary signs placed or
maintained on any lot in one ownership shall not exceed
eighty square feet.
Sec. 8110 -6.8.2 - Political Sign Registration - In order to
keep track of the placement of temporary political signs to
assure removal subsequent to an election, such signs shall
be registered with the Department of Community Development by
the candidate or his or her registered agent, or, when a
ballot proposition is involved, by an authorized agent of the
group or organization sponsoring the signs, prior to the
distribution of such signs for the attachment or
installation on any property. Registration of political
signs shall be on forms available in the Planning Department
and shall be accompanied by an agreement signed by the
candidate or his or her authorized agent, or when a ballot
proposition is involved, by an authorized agent of the group
or organization sponsoring the signs, that within ten
calendar days after the election all political signs shall be
removed, and a certified statement by the registrant that
consent will be obtained from each owner of the property on
which a sign is to be posted.
Sec. 8110 -6.8.3 - Location - Political signs may not be
affixed, installed, or erected within 100 feet of a polling
place or historic site, nor within 660 feet of the edge of
a "Scenic Highway" as determined by the City or a freeway,
nor in any location where the sign will impair sight
distance or create a hazard to traffic or pedestrians, nor on
any telephone pole, lamppost, tree, wall, fence, bridge,
bench, hydrant, curbstone, sidewalk or other structure in or
upon any public right -of -way, nor upon any other public
property.
Sec. 8110 -6.8.4 - Enforcement - Except for signs remaining
posted after the post - election deadline, any political sign
not posted in accordance with the provisions of this Article
shall be deemed to be a public nuisance and shall be subject
to removal by the candidate, property owner, or, when a
ballot proposition is involved, the authorized agent of the
group or organization sponsoring the sign or, upon their
failure to do so after reasonable attempt at notice by the
City, by City officers or zoning inspectors. Any political
sign which is not removed within the ten days following an
election shall be subject to summary removal and confiscation
by the City.
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Sec. 8110 -6.9 - Service Station Signs - On -site service station
signs are permitted in accordance with the following
regulations:
Sec. 8110 -6.9.1 - Attached Signs - are permitted as follows:
a. Maximum -permitted area in square feet is three times
the square root of the area (in square feet) of the
wall or canopy face. Maximum 200 square feet for all
attached signs, except that when wall area exceeds
5,000 square feet, the sign area may be increased by
ten square feet for each additional 500 square feet
of wall area over 5,000, to a maximum of 50 square
feet per side.
b. Maximum height - 16 feet, provided that the sign does
not extend above the eaves of a gable roof nor more
than two feet above the face of the canopy or parapet
wall to which it is attached.
C. Brand name insignia, emblems or medallions may be
attached to the building frontage of the service
station. Symbol background area may be 14 square feet
maximum per symbol, maximum ten feet horizontally and
maximum eight feet vertically.
Sec. 8110 -6.9.2 - Freestanding Monument Signs - are permitted
as follows:
a. Maximum area in square feet is the lesser of 32 square
feet or 0.8F -40, where F is the lot frontage in linear
feet .
b. Maximum height is 5 feet.
Sec. 8110 -6.9.3 - Overall Area Limit = The maximum total area
for all signs on a service station site is 300 square feet.
Sec. 8110 -6.9.4 - Numerical Limit - There is no limit on the
number of signs on a service station site, except that poster
boards are limited to two; see Sec. 8110- 6.9.5, below.
Sec. 8110 -6.9.5 - Poster Boards - Two poster boards mounted
on permanently anchored footings may be installed in
locations which do not obstruct safe visibility from
vehicles. Each poster board may have a maximum area of 15
square feet and a maximum height of six feet.
Sec. 8110 -6.9.6 - Identification Sign - An identification
sign may be attached to hang below the canopy.
Sec. 8110 -6.10 - Symbol Signs Not on Service Stations - One
symbol sign in the form of a graphic presentation of goods or
-"" services sold or rendered on the premises or a traditional
emblem associated with a trade, which emblem or symbol bears no
131
written message or trademark, shall be permitted on each
building frontage of the enterprise provided that it is affixed
to the building, canopy or wall which is part of the building
frontage and does not project over any publicly maintained
right -of -way. These signs shall not project above the canopy or
wall. No such symbol sign if attached to the builAhg shall
exceed 64 square feet in area, and no such symbol sign if
hanging from a canopy or facia shall exceed two square feet in
area. Such signs shall be included in the total area of signs
allowed on the lot where they are located.
Sec. 8110 -6.11 - Temporary Signs - are permitted as follows:
Sec. 8110 - 6.11.1 - Attraction Devices - The Planning Director
may authorize temporary banners, pennants, flags or captive
balloons for a period of up to 30 days in any six month
period or 30 consecutive days in any six month period. A
period of 90 days for the purpose of advertising a grand
opening may be authorized for a new business.
Sec. 8110 - 6.11.2 - Removal - No Sign Permit for a temporary
sign promoting an event shall be issued unless and until the
applicant therefore has signed an agreement that the sign
involved will be removed within seven days after the
expiration of the 30 -day temporary period. Said agreement
shall authorize City agents to remove expired signs and shall
be accompanied by a cash deposit, the amount of which shall
be determined by the City. The deposit may be used to defray J
the costs of sign removal in the event the permit holder
defaults upon the agreement as aforesaid. Appropriate
refunds to the applicant(s) shall be made upon written
report to the Planning Director that sign removal has been
satisfactorily accomplished.
Sec. 8110 -6.12 - Off -Site Tract Signs - Such signs are permitted
on agriculturally zoned property, on vacant residentially or
industrially zoned property, and on vacant property zoned C -P -D,
only after a final tract map has been recorded, for a period of
18 months from the date of issuance of the Sign Permit for such
sign or until all lots have been sold, whichever is the first to
occur. No tract shall have more than four off -site signs
advertising its existence. Such signs may be located adjacent
to routes traveled to reach the tract advertised unless such
route has been adopted as a freeway or County Scenic Highway in
any of the Elements of the City's General Plan, or is a State -
designated Scenic Highway, or if the proposed sign location is
within a "Scenic Corridor" adopted by the City Council. A
deposit for removal of the sign shall be required.
Sec. 8110 - 6.12.1 - City Restrictions - Tract signs located
within the City shall advertise only tracts located within
the City or within cities located therein, or may exhibit
noncommercial messages for a period of 18 months.
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Sec. 8110 - 6.12.2 - Additional Restrictions - No lot shall
__4F have thereon both a off -site tract advertising sign and an
on -site identification sign, and no tract sign shall be
placed within 500 feet of any other tract sign.
Sec. 8110 -6.13 - Window Signs - Window signs shall not exceed 25
percent of the window area and no more than 150 total square
feet. That portion of total window sign area that exceeds ten
square feet on any individual business shall be counted toward
the attached sign area permitted for that business. Signs
attached to the exterior surfaces of windows are prohibited.
Sec. 8110 -6.14 - Menu Boards for Drive - Through Restaurants - A
drive -in or drive - through restaurant is permitted one menu board
not exceeding 16 square feet in area, which shall not be counted
toward the sign area or permitted number of signs otherwise
allowed for the lot or premises.
Sec. 8110 -6.15 - Model Tract Pole Signs - Model home tract pole
signs shall be permitted provided that a plot plan shall be
submitted and approved that complies with the following
requirements:
(1) A plot plan shall show the location of all proposed
poles, setbacks, height, spacing dimensions, number and
size.
(2) Location - Permitted only around the perimeter of the
tract site area and complex, and shall not be permitted
to exceed two hundred ( 200 ) feet from the nearest model
unit or within two hundred (200) feet of any occupied
residence.
(3) Height - Fourteen (14) feet maximum.
(4) Setbacks - Three (3) feet minimum from property
boundaries. —
(5) Spacing - To be determined at the time of review of the
plot plan and approval of the permit.
(6) Flag Size - Twelve (12) square feet maximum.
(7) Flag Number - Maximum of two (2) flag poles per model
unit and one (1) flag per pole.
(8) Time period - Permitted for one (1) year or until the
last unit is sold, whichever occurs first. Renewals of
the permit shall not exceed one year for each renewal as
approved by the Director of Community development.
(9) Removal Deposit - The applicant shall pay such
r application fees and removal fees as the City Council
may adopt by Resolution. Such fees shall be sufficient
to cover one - hundred (100) percent of all costs to the
133
City.in administering these sections.
(10) The Director of Community Development may modify these
requirements due to a topographic location hardship.
(11) All model tract flags shall be well maintainer and kept
in good condition (i.e. not tattered or torn).
Sec. 8110 -6.16 - For Rent and For Lease Signs in Multi - Family
Residential Zones - Signs providing information of units being
offered for "rent or lease" may be allowed on -site only. These
signs must be in conformance with the provisions of this
section. A sign permit from the Department of Community
Development is required prior to the installation of the sign.
(a) Size - The sign shall not exceed twelve (12) square
feet.
(b) Height - Shall not exceed six (6) feet measured from
finished grade.
(c) Materials - The sign shall use the same materials as the
parent building or landscape fixtures, and shall be
weatherproof.
(d) Location - Not less than five (5) feet inside the
property line and must be located within one of the
City's multifamily residential zones.
(e) OTHER RESTRICTIONS - Signs shall be non - illuminated and
not be placed within fifty (50) feet from any off -site
residence, corner, or other directional signs. No more
than one such sign may be displayed on each street
frontage. Such signs shall be located no closer than
fifty ( 50 ) feet from any corner. All signs shall carry
only the name of the residential complex, business
address and business phone number and "For Rent" and /or
"For Lease ". No changeable copy, picture, or graphic
shall be included on such sign.
Sec. 8110 -7 - ABATEMENT OF SIGNS RELATING TO INOPERATIVE FUNCTIONS
- Signs pertaining to enterprises or occupants that are no longer
using a property shall be removed from the premises within 60 days
after the associated enterprise or occupant has vacated the
premises. Other signs of a temporary nature shall be removed
within ten days following the event or other purpose served by the
sign in the first instance. Any such sign not removed within the
required period shall constitute a nuisance and shall be subject to
summary abatement. pursuant to Section 38773 of the California
Government Code, and the expense of such abatement shall be a lien
against the property on which the sign was maintained and a
personal obligation against the property owner. Said property
owner shall first be served with a notice to abate the nuisance and
shall be given the opportunity for a hearing before the Planning
Director.
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Sec. 8110 -8 - NONCONFORMING SIGNS
Sec. 8110 -8.1 - Continuance - In cases where the area of signs
existing as a valid nonconforming use on a property exceed the
total allowable area for permitted signs, no additional signs
shall be permitted on the property. If the size or
configuration of a lot or building is changed by the subdivision
of the property or by alterations, identification signs and
outdoor advertising signs on the resulting properties shall be
required to conform to the sign regulations applicable to the
newly created lot or lots at the time such change becomes
effective.
Sec. 8110 -8.2 - Repair - A nonconforming sign may be repaired,
provided that it has not been damaged in excess of 60 percent of
its value. Such damaged nonconforming sign may not be expanded,
reconstructed or relocated without being made to comply in all
respects with the provisions of this Article.
Sec. 8110 -8.3 - Amortization - All signs rendered nonconforming
by the provisions of this Article shall be altered, removed or
otherwise made to comply with the provisions of this Article
within the following time periods, which shall run from either
the effective date of this Article or such later date as the use
is made nonconforming:
Political Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 days
•— . . . . . . . . . . .
Signs painted on structures 1 year
All other signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 years
.Provided, however, that the following time periods shall apply to
signs legally erected, pursuant to a valid sign permit issued
within the two years immediately preceding the effective date of
this Article:
Signs painted on structures ...... 1 year from effective date of this
Article or from the expiration date of the permit.
Freestanding off - site...... Pursuant to California
advertising sign in open space, agricultural or residential
zones...... pursuant to Calif. Business and Professions Code Sec.
5412.1 et seq.
Freestanding off -site advertising signs ...... Not subject to
amortization
All other signs ...... 5 years from effective date of this Article
or from the expiration date of this permit.
Sec. 8110 -8.4- Abatement - Nonconforming signs shall either be made
to conform with the provisions of this Article or be abated within
the applicable period of time. In the event they are not, the
Planning Director shall order the same to be abated by the owner
135
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of the property_ or by any other person known to be responsible for
the maintenance =of the sign.
Sec. 8110 -8.5 - Manner of Abatement - Unless some other mode of
abatement is approved by the Planning Director in writing,
abatement of nonconforming signs shall be accomplished in the
following manner:
a. Signs Painted on Structures - By removal of the paint
constituting the sign or by permanently painting it in such
a way that the sign shall not thereafter be or become
visible;
b. Other Signs - By removal of the sign, including its dependent
structures and supports; or pursuant to a sign permit duly
issued allowing modification, alteration or
replacement thereof in conformity with the provisions of this
Article.
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