This is reliable Signage Code for Municipalities. I compiled these Codes and succeeded in making it Law in a city in which I once lived.
SECTIONS:
1001 Purpose and
Intent
1002 Definitions and
Abbreviations
1003 General Design
Guidelines
1004 Permitted Signs
1005 Procedures for
Sign Approval
1006 On-Site/Off-Site
Residential Directional Signs
1007 Prohibited Signs
1001 Purpose and Intent
Signs in the City of
It is the intent of the City of
1002 Definitions and
Abbreviations
For purposes of this Article, the following definitions shall apply:
A. Accessory sign. A sign which is designed to facilitate the announcement of trading stamps, credit cards. special services being offered or other similar messages. Such signs shall not announce or advertise products, goods or services directly related to the business being conducted on the premises.
B. Abandoned Sign. Any sign advertising a business, use or service which has been discontinued or the premises upon which it is located have been vacated for a period of more than 90 days, which is a nonconforming sign. Any sign which is a conforming sign not in use but which may be intended to be re-used in conjunction with the owner ship or operation of a new business on a property shall not fall under the definition of abandoned.
C. Alteration. Any change of copy, color, size, shape, illumination, position, location, construction or supporting structure of an existing sign.
D. Animated sign. A sign with action or motion, rotating, flashing or color changes, excepting therefrom wind-actuated elements such as flags, banners, streamers, whirligigs or other similar devices, and public service signs such as time and temperature units.
E. Building Complex. A building or group of buildings on one or more lots or building sites containing two or more unrelated occupants and sharing common parking facilities.
F. Building Face. The outermost surface of any main, exterior wall of a building, but not including cornices, bay windows, balconies, oriels or other architectural features which extend beyond the general outermost surface of such main exterior wall.
G. Canopy Sign. Any sign attached to a projecting canopy or protruding over a Private sidewalk.
H. Changeable Copy Sign. A sign with changeable copy, regardless of method of attachment or materials of construction.
I. Combination Sign. Any sign incorporating any combination of the features of more than one type of sign.
J. Construction Project Sign. A sign identifying the architect, engineer, designer, contractor, developer, lending institution or future occupant of a construction project.
K. Director of Building. Officer or other person charged with the administration and enforcement of this Article or his duly authorized deputy.
L. Directional Sign. Any on-site sign to direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic which contains no commercial or advertising matter.
M. Directory Signs. A sign not intended to be viewed from a public street designed to identify tenants within a building complex.
N. Dormer. A structure located above the height of a wall projecting from a sloping roof that is enclosed on both sides and top, and does not project above the top of the roof structure.
O. Double-Faced Sign. A sign with two faces, with each face oriented 150 degrees (back-to-back) from the other.
P. Electric Sign. Any sign containing electrical wiring, but not including signs illuminated by an exterior light source.
Q. Grade. The elevation of the nearest public sidewalk or curb adjoining the property upon which any sign or structure is placed or erected. or the constructed finished ground surface immediately below the sign.
R. Height. The height of any sign shall be the measurement from the top of the sign cabinet, including all ornamentation and supports. to the ground surface beneath.
S. Illegal Sign. Any sign placed without proper government approval and -- or permits at the time said sign was placed. "Illegal Sign'' shall also mean any nonconforming sign that has exceeded its authorized amortization period.
T. Illuminated Sign. Any electric sign or other sign employing the use of lighting sources for the purpose of decorating, outlining, accentuating or brightening the sign area.
U.
V. Marquee. A permanent roofed structure attached to and supported by the building and projecting beyond the building face.
W. Monument Sign. A sign not exceeding 12 feet in height which is supported by a base not exceeding 25 percent of the sign area.
X. Multi-faced sign. A sign with more than two faces with each face oriented at less than 150 degrees from the other.
Y. Non-combustible. Applied to building construction material means a material which, in the form in which it is used, is either one of the following:
1. Material of which no part will ignite and burn when subject to fire. Any material conforming to U.B.C. Section 415 shall be considered non-combustible within the meaning of this Section.
2. Material having a structural base of non-combustible material as defined in Item No. I above. with a surfacing material not over 1/8 inch thick which has a flame-spread rating of 50 or less.
"Non-combustible" does not apply to surface finish materials. Material required to be non-combustible for reduced clearances to flues, heating appliances or other materials shall refer to material conforming to Section No. 1. No material shall be classed as non-combustible which is subject to increase in combustibility or flame-spread rating beyond the limits herein established, through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric condition.
Flame-spread rating as used herein refers to rating obtained according to tests conducted as specified in U.B.C. Standard No. 42-1
Z. Non-conforming sign. A sign which was legally installed under laws or ordinances in effect prior to the effective date of this Article or subsequent revisions, but which is in conflict with the provisions of this Article.
AA . Non-structural Trim. The molding, battens, caps, nailing strips, latticing, cutouts, or letters and walkways which are attached to the sign structure.
BB. Outdoor Advertising Sign. A sign of the outdoor advertising business, which advertises products, accommodations, services or activities not provided on the premises on which it is located, excepting therefrom off-site subdivision and real estate signs. Also known as a billboard.
CC. On-site Sign. A sign advertising the business, accommodations, services or activities provided on the premises on which the sign is located. On-site signs do not include outdoor advertising signs as de fined in this Article.
DD. Permanent Sign. Any sign designed and intended to be used in excess of 30 days.
EE. Permitted Sign. Signs not regulated by an Alternate Sign Permit, Sign Modification Permit, Comprehensive Sign Package, or any other discretionary action by the City Planner, Planning Commission or City Council and which are otherwise permitted pursuant to Section 3320 or 3350 of this Article.
FF. Pole Sign. A sign wholly supported by a sign structure in the ground and not attached to a building.
GG. Political Sign. A sign which is designed to influence the action of the voters regarding candidates or measures appearing on the ballot at any national, state or local election.
HH. Prohibited Signs. Signs specified in Section 3375 of this Article or any sign not specified in Section 3320 or 3350 nor in compliance with the design criteria of this Article unless otherwise authorized by an Alternate Sign Permit, Sign Modification Permit, Comprehensive Sign Program or any other discretionary action by the City Planner, Planning Commission, or City Council.
II. Projecting Sign. A sign which projects more than 12 inches from the faces of an exterior building wall or facade and which uses the building wall as its primary source of support.
JJ. Project Entrance Sign. Any on-site sign used to identify the name of an apartment housing complex, mobile home park, condominium subdivision or planned residential development.
KK. Property Sales Sign. A sign, other than a subdivision sign, advertising the sale, rent or lease of the particular building or real property upon which it is displayed.
LL. Public Service Sign. A sign which provides general information of non-advertising nature of the public, such as electronic changeable time and temperature units which augment "on-site" business identification signs.
MM. Repair. The renewal of any part of an existing sign for the purpose of its maintenance. The word "repair" shall not apply to any structural change of any non conforming sign after the lapse of the legal abatement period.
VV. Sign Structure. Any structure which supports or is capable of supporting any sign as defined in this Section. A sign structure may be a single pole and may or may not be an integral part of the building.
WW. Temporary Sign. Any sign A-frame, streamer banner, pennant, valance or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, or other light materials, with or without frames, intended to be displayed for a limited period of time only, This definition specifically excludes balloon and inflatable signs or inflatable attention getting devices.
XX. Wall Sign. Any sign attached to or erected against the wall of a building or structure, with the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the plane of said wall and not located above the roof line parapet or facade (except when enclosed within a dormer), which does not project more than 12 inches from the building wall.
YY. Window Sign. Any permanent sign displayed on a window in excess of three square feet.
ZZ. Balloon and Inflatable Signs or Inflatable Attention Getting Devices. Any air or gas filed device located attached or tethered to the ground, site merchandise building, or roof and used for the purposes of signage, advertising or attention getting.
1003 General Design Guidelines
A. Comprehensive Sign Package. Buildings or building complexes containing three or more uses shall be required to submit a comprehensive sign package to the Planning Division prior to the issuance of the first sign permit of a building complex or, in the case of an existing building complex, within 30 days of the first new sign permit for that complex. Such sign package shall be in substantial conformance with the provisions of Section 1004. and shall be designed and constructed to meet or exceed all applicable codes. The sign package shall contain provisions for uniform color, size, types of signs and design standards.
All Comprehensive Sign Packages and individual signs to be used with in the Downtown Development District are subject to the permit requirements set by the Downtown Development Authority Historic Guidelines. All sign packages and individual signs to be used within the Downtown Development District must first be approved according to their respective sign criteria and design standards.
B. On-Site Signage. Signs shall only identify uses being conducted on the premises where the use is being conducted except as otherwise provided for herein.
C. Removal of Abandoned Signs. It shall be the responsibility of the owner of the land and -- or improvements to remove any abandoned sign or signs on premises abandoned or not otherwise in use for a period in excess of 30 days.
D. Illumination. No interior lit cabinet style signs shall be permitted in the Downtown Development Area, such as metal or plastic or wood enclosed signs with interior neon or tungsten or arc lamp or any other form of light source, inside the sign in order to make visible the icon or lettering or logo or any other kind of display.
Sign illumination shall be from interior light source contained within the sign cabinet. Indirect exterior illumination shall be permitted provided the light source is entirely shielded from view. Such signs shall comply with the following provisions:
1. No sign shall be illuminated by an exposed light source visible from any public street or residential property.
2. No sign shall employ strobe lights, or any other light source that pulsates, blinks, or flashes.
3. No sign shall employ the use of mirrors or any other highly reflective surfaces so as to direct or reflect any natural or artificial light onto any public right-of-way or adjoining property.
4. No gooseneck-type lighting fixtures shall be permitted.
E. Signs in Corner Clear Zone. No sign or sign structure having a height more than 42 inches shall be permitted in any required setback yard nor within any corner clear zone as defined in the Zoning Ordinance.
F. Nonconforming Signs. Any sign that becomes nonconforming as a result of this Article will be subject to the following:
1. Any repairs may be made necessary to maintain a nonconforming sign's structure, safety and function including refinishing, provided the basic size. copy, and structure of the sign remains unchanged and providing such nonconforming sign continues to be within its legally designated abatement period.
2. When a new sign is proposed as a result of a change in business or occupancy, all existing or any new signs for that business shall be made to conform with the provisions of this Article including the development of a Comprehensive Sign Package for existing building complexes.
3. The abatement of all nonconforming signs shall be conducted as provided for by state law.
G. Placement of Signs. Signs shall be placed on the premises which the sign is intended to identify. Signs shall not be placed or overhang on public property nor within the public right-of-way unless provided for elsewhere herein. No sign of any kind shall be placed in the public right-of-way. A fine of not less than $50 per day will be assessed for the violation.
H. Sign Maintenance. All signs shall be kept in good repair at all times. Any portions of a sign in need of repair shall be repaired or contracted to be repaired within 10 days of notification.
1. All signs shall be kept in good repair at all times. Any portions of a sign in need of repair shall be repaired or contracted to be repaired within 10 days of notification of the enforcement official.
2. If the sign is not under repair or repaired within 30 days after the notification period has elapsed, the owner and -- or user of the sign will be guilty of an infraction, and the enforcement officer will issue a citation. A fine not exceeding $50 will be assessed for the first violation.
3. If the sign is not repaired within 30 days of the first violation, second violation will be issued to the owner and -- or user of the sign. A fine not exceeding $100 will be assessed for the second violation, and will continue to be assessed each day thereafter, until the sign is repaired.
1004 Permitted Signs
The following types of signs are permitted in order to provide a wide range of options for advertisement and identification.
In the event that an applicant desires a sign which is not listed, or the property does not qualify for a particular type of sign, or there are unique circumstances which warrant special consideration, an application for an Alternate Sign Permit may be made.
In the event an applicant desires a modification to the design standards of this Article, an application for a Sign Modification Permit may be made.
The types of signs listed below may be permitted without any special review if all of the design standards have been met and is not in conflict with an approved comprehensive sign package.
A. Pole Signs/Freestanding and Roof Signs. No pole signs are permitted in the Downtown Development Area. Pole signs and roof signs shall be subject to the following:
1. Maximum height of 50 feet. measured from average finished grade.
2. The total square footage of all roof and pole signs shall not exceed a maximum of 250 square feet.
3. Sign message. For multiple-use signs the principle message shall identify the building complex. Individual identification of users in a building complex may be included in the pole-sign message. The total square footage of tenant identification shall not exceed 100 sq. ft.
B. Monument Signs. Monument signs may be permitted subject to the following design standards:
1. No monument sign shall be allowed to identify a use which is already identified on another freestanding sign except as may be provided for in this Article.
2. A minimum distance of 50 feet must be maintained between monument signs.
3. The identification of a single use not located within a building complex will be limited to one monument sign.
4. The sign area of a monument sign shall not exceed 40 square feet. For the purpose of computing the area of a monument sign and to encourage better design, a border or frame shall not be counted as square footage provided such border or frame does not exceed an additional 25 percent of sign area.
5. Monument signs identifying a single use in excess of 10,000 square feet of floor area may be permitted to increase the sign area 20 square feet for each 10.000 square feet of building area to a maximum of 150 square feet.
6. No monument sign including a frame, border or base shall exceed 12 feet in height.
C. Wall Signs. Signs painted on walls, or attached to and placed flat against a building wall or fascia are intended to be the primary identification signs for most uses. The following size and design standards shall apply to wall signs:
1. Sign Area. The maximum size of a wall sign shall be 30 percent of each side of a building surface. Frontage is computed on an individual basis in multi-tenant buildings. Building frontage shall be measured along that side of the building for which the sign is proposed.
2. Sign Length. The length of the sign may be up to 50 percent of the building frontage.
3. Letter Height. Letter height for any wall signs shall be as follows: maximum average or 18 inches plus 10 inches for each 10 feet of building width.
4. Accessory Wall Signs (Including Logos). Each use will be permitted four additional accessory signs not exceeding 21 square feet.
5. Location. The top of the sign shall not project above the top of the wall (wall is measured up to the intersection of the root line). Signs placed on pitched roofs may be allowed provided the sign is enclosed within a dormer and does not extend above the ridgeline of the structure.
D. Projecting Signs. Signs projecting from the side of a building shall not extend over the public right-ot-way and shall not exceed 50 square feet.
E. Canopy Signs/Pedestrian Signs. Signs placed perpendicular to the building face under a canopy will be permitted at each building entrance provided the bottom of each sign is at least eight feet above the walkway.
F. Director Signs.
1. Direction signs shall be no more than three feet high and three square feet The signs shall be permanently placed on site.
2. Directory signs, free-standing or attached to a building, for tenants of shopping centers and building complexes are permitted under the following conditions:
a. The sign area shall not exceed one square foot per tenant.
b. The total sign area for all tenants shall not exceed 100 square feet.
c. The sign shall be located at least 100 feet from a public street, and it shall not cause traffic hazards on or off site.
G. Window Signs. No more than 30 percent of the total window area for any one side of a building shall be used for permanent sign display except as provided otherwise herein. Window signs advertising hours of operation, credit cards and other such items shall not exceed a cumulative square footage of 10 square feet.
H. Multiple-Story Buildings. For those uses located in structures two or more stories in height the following sign criteria shall be applied.
1. Ground-floor users and primary building identification shall follow the sign criteria as established in Sections A through G above.
2. Second-floor users will be allowed a wall or canopy sign of no more than 16 square feet only where an exterior access serves as the primary access to the use.
3. All other users may have their identification signs from the interior corridors of the building at the discretion of the owner/landlord of the building.
4. Directory signs either free-standing or attached to the building will be permitted for multiple-tenant structures under the following conditions:
a. The sign area shall not exceed one square foot per tenant.
b. The total sign area for all tenants shall not exceed 100 square feet.
c. The sign shall be located at least 100 feet from a public street, and it shall not cause traffic hazards on or off site.
I. Gasoline Stations. State law requires the posting of sales prices for all grades of gasoline sold. Prices change frequently and therefore need to be treated differently from the typical sign. The following criteria shall be applied to gasoline stations: Temporary and -- or portable signs advertising gasoline prices will be permitted.
J. Public Service/Neighborhood Signs.
1. Time-and-temperature signs may be incorporated into approved monument signs or placed flat against a wall. The square footage of message area shall not exceed 10 square feet.
2. Cloth banners suspended above a
city street when the organization responsible for the banner is directly or
indirectly associated with the City of
3. Signs posted in neighborhoods for the purpose of public safety, such as Neighborhood Watch Signs, shall be designed to blend into a neighborhood and not create a hazard. Such signs shall not exceed 32 square feet and do not require a permit.
Neighborhood Watch Signs shall conform to a single design approved by a Design Review Board and accepted and voted into law by the City Council. The design shall not vary. Any Neighborhood Watch Sign which does not conform to this design shall be removed without notice.
4. No Signs -- Public, Temporary, Directional, or otherwise -- shall be affixed in any way to Plants, Landscape, or Trees.
K. Temporary Promotional Signs. Such signs may be permitted for a limited time without the requirement of obtaining a permit to announce the grand opening of a business, special promotions, sales, and outdoor exhibitions or performances on the premises subject to these limitations.
1. Signs painted on or attached to window surface will be allowed on the ground-floor level and shall not cover more than 25 percent of the total window surface. The painted or attached sign shall not obstruct eye level view through the window. The sign must be above or below eye level.
2. Signs shall advertise only the goods and services available on the premises.
3. Temporary portable signs, banners, pennants, streamers, whirligigs, or similar attention-getting devices without wording erected for the purpose of advertising or the grand opening of a business are strictly fobidden except for the first 14 days of the grand opening, otherwise temporary signs shall contain only words and not graphics or logos.
4. Temporary signs shall be permitted for a period not to exceed 14 consecutive days for any one special promotion, except as specifically provided in this paragraph, flags, kites, balloons and inflatable signs or inflatable attention getting devices are prohibited and illegal. No words, logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted, with the exception of temporary use in connection with the following land uses or activities.
a. Non-commercial uses on private property. No words, logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted:
b. Community nonprofit special events with an approved Temporary Use Permit or Special Events Permit.
5. Signs, merchandise, or any other material shall not be placed upon any public property. A fine of $50 per day shall be assessed for this violation.
6. Community Events. Signs shall be limited to 32 square feet when located on private property and shall not be erected sooner than 30 days prior to the event and shall be removed within 10 days after the event. Community events signs not located on private property shall be limited in size to six square feet. The location requirements of community event signs shall be the same as the location requirement for political signs as contained in this section. A community event is defined as an event conducted within the City limits and oriented toward recreational, cultural or civic activities sponsored by nonprofit organizations in which the entire community is encouraged to participate. Such events generally are conducted within large open space or recreational areas.
L. Construction Project Sign. One sign shall be permitted for each construction site, subject to these limitations:
1. Height. Shall not exceed eight feet above finished grade.
2. Area. Maximum 40 square feet per sign face.
3. Location. Shall be located on site at least 10 feet from the right-of-way.
4. Special Provisions.
a. Signs shall not be illuminated.
b. Signs must be removed prior to issuance of occupancy certificate.
M. Temporary Leasing Sign or For-Sale Sign. Temporary signs for the purpose of leasing or selling property shall be limited to the following:
1. Unimproved Land. For each 500 feet of street frontage 32 square feet of sign area is permitted, up to a maximum of 200 square feet. No more than four signs for each property shall be permitted. No sign shall have a sign area of more than 70 square feet, and a height of more than 14 feet.
2. Improved Land (Nonresidential). One sign placed on the wall of the building for each street frontage not exceeding 32 square feet per sign and not exceeding two signs. One additional freestanding sign not exceeding 6 feet in height and 12 square feet when the building is set back from public street at least 70 feet.
3. Improved Land (Residential). One sign for each street frontage not exceeding 4 feet high and 6 square feet.
N. Political Sign. Political signs shall be permitted to be posted and maintained subject to the following regulations:
1. Such a sign shall be removed no later than 10 days immediately following such election.
2. Such a sign may be permitted on private property only with the consent of the owner or person in legal possession of such property.
3. No political sign shall be posted on any streetlight pole; on any post, pole, or structure supporting a traffic-control sign or signal; or on a fire hydrant located on public property or in the public right-of-way.
4. No political sign shall be posted on any tree, bush or other vegetation located on public property or in the public right-of-way by use of any nail, tack, spike, or other method which would cause harm to the tree, brush, or vegetation.
5. No political sign shall be posted on public property or in the public right-of-way in a manner which:
a. Obstructs a motorist's clear view of vehicular or pedestrian traffic, traffic-control signs or signals;
b. Impedes a pedestrian's free use of the sidewalk;
c. Otherwise represents a hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
6. Prior to posting any political sign, the candidate, committee supporting or opposing a candidate or ballot measure, or other person who is responsible for the posting and maintenance of such signs, hereinafter referred to as "responsible party", shall provide the following information to the Building Official:
a. Name, address, and telephone number of the responsible party;
b. The date on which the posting is to commence;
c. The date of the election to which the signs will be applicable
d. The date on which the signs are to be removed.
7. If a political sign is posted in violation of the provisions of paragraphs 2 through 5 above, the Building Official shall cause notice to be given to the responsible party of the location of the subject sign, the nature of the violation, and the remedial action necessary to correct the violation. Such notice may be given by personal contact, telephone, mail, or other manner reasonably calculated to provide such notice.
If any such sign is not removed or is re-posted within 48 hours of notification so as to remedy the pertinent violation, the Building Official is authorized to cause such sign to be removed. In any case where the responsible party cannot be notified or identified or where the subject sign is so posted as to create a hazard which poses a peril to pedestrian or vehicular traffic, the Building Official is authorized to cause the subject sign to be removed immediately.
8. If any political sign is posted in violation of the provisions of paragraph 1 above, the Building Official shall cause notice to be given to the responsible party of the location of the subject, sign, the nature of the violation, and the necessity for the removal of the sign. Such notice may be given by personal contact, telephone, mail or other manner reasonably calculated to provide such notice.
If any such sign is not removed within five days of such notification, the Building Official is authorized to cause such sign to be removed.
9. Whenever the Building Official causes the removal of a political sign, the cost incurred by the City in removing such sign shall constitute a debt owed to the City by the responsible party. The City Manager is authorized to take such action as may be deemed necessary, including the commencement of a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction, to recover any such costs.
O. Project Entrance Sign. Such signs may be installed to announce the name of a project subject to the following limitations:
1. Designed as an integral part of a decorative wall or fence.
2. Placed within a maintained, landscaped, planted area.
3. Placed at the main street intersection in such a location that will not obstruct sight distance.
P. Residential Sign. Residential signs of no more than 1.5 square feet per sign identifying the name or address of the residential building, the name of the occupants thereof, or the conditions of use of a parking facility shall be allowed without applying for a sign permit.
Q. Bus-Bench Signs. Signs placed on bus benches and enclosures shall either be painted onto bus-stop benches or attached directly to a bus shelter. No such sign shall extend beyond the bus-stop benches or bus shelters.
1005 Procedures for
Sign Approval
All sign proposals shall be consistent with the provisions of this Article or with an approved Comprehensive Sign Package. A sign permit can be issued upon the completion of the following steps.
A. Types of Sign Permits.
1. Sign Permit. All signs consistent with this Article or those signs which have either an approved Comprehensive Sign Package, Alternate Sign Permit or Sign Modification Permit may file directly with the Building Division for a Sign Permit.
2. Comprehensive Sign Package. Buildings or building complexes containing three or more uses shall be required to submit a Comprehensive Sign Package. Such sign package shall contain provisions that establish uniform color, size, location, types of signs, and lighting requirements and other requirements of the Comprehensive Sign Package Application Form.
3. Alternate Sign Permit. An Alternate Sign Permit will be required if the type of sign being proposed is not specified in this Article.
4. Sign Modification Permit. A Sign Modification Permit will be required if a proposed sign differs from the design criteria established herein or within an approved Comprehensive Sign Package.
B. Approving Authority. Depending upon the type of sign application as required above, the following persons, departments, advisory or legislative bodies are entitled to approve or deny sign requests:
1. Comprehensive Sign Package. The City Planner shall either approve or deny Comprehensive Sign Packages. Should the City Planner deny a Comprehensive Sign Package, a written report shall be prepared indicating the reasons why the Comprehensive Sign Package was not approved. The decision of the City Planner is appealable to the Planning Commission and City Council.
2. Alternate Sign Permit. The Planning Commission shall have the authority to approve or deny applications for an Alternative Sign Permit. The decision of the Planning Commission is appealable to the City Council.
3. Sign Modification Permit. The Planning Commission shall have the authority to approve or deny applications for a Sign Modification Permit. The City Planner may approve minor modifications for -- height, area, or other design criteria -- as specified in Sections 1004 and 1006 provided that such request does not exceed 10 per cent of the specific requirement provided for in this Article. The decision of the Planning Commission or City Planner is appealable to the City Council.
4. Sign Permit. The Building Official is authorized to issue all sign permits which comply with the provisions of Subsection 1004 and 1006 subject to any conditions the City Planner, Planning Commission or City Council may have imposed on the respective use, building or parcel.
5. Signs Within the Downtown Development Area. Sign criteria in the Redevelopment Area differ from the criteria contained in this Article. Signs proposed for these areas may be referred to the legislative body of these agencies for action.
C. Required Findings for Approval of an Alternate Sign Permit. Applications filed for an Alternate Sign Permit shall only be approved when all the following findings can be made:
1. The type of sign being proposed is not included within Section 1004.
2. The proposed use or building location has characteristics that would make the use of a sign as contained in Section 1004 not feasible or not effective.
3. The design, size, or location of the proposed sign would not be detrimental to surrounding uses.
4. The design of the proposed sign has demonstrated superior quality that will contribute to the upgrading of the surrounding area.
D. Required Findings for a Sign Modification Permit. Applications filed for a Sign Modification Permit shall only be approved when the following findings can be made:
1. The enforcement of the design standards of this Article would cause a hardship to the property for which the sign is proposed, due to size, shape or other characteristic of said property.
2. The design standards contained in this Article are inappropriate due to the uniqueness of the proposed use or property.
3. The design of an existing structure would not permit the same degree of sign identification that other uses in the immediate area enjoy which are conforming to this Article.
4. The proposed sign modification is necessary to provide adequate sign identification for the proposed use.
5. The proposed sign modification would not be detrimental to other uses in the area.
6. The proposed sign modification design is equal to or better than the design criteria as contained in this Article.
E. Public Hearing Process. Any application to consider an Alternate Sign Permit, Sign Modification Permit, or an appeal of a Comprehensive Sign Package shall be heard by the Planning Commission at a public hearing in accordance with the provisions of Article ____ of the Zoning Ordinance. A completed application form with the appropriate filing fees shall be filed with the Planning Division. Any decision by the Planning Commission is appealable to the City Council pursuant to the provisions of Article ____ of the Zoning Ordinance.
1006 On-Site/Off-Site
Residential Directional Signs
This Section provides for signs of residential subdivisions
and major apartment complexes within the City of
A. Scope of Regulations.
Residential directional signs for projects located in the City of
1. Residential subdivision for detached single-family homes, duplexes and townhouses.
2. Residential condominium subdivisions or condominium conversions.
3. Residential cooperative developments or cooperative conversions.
4. Multifamily residential rental projects of 250 units or more.
B. Number of Signs. Each subdivision is permitted a total of six residential directional signs, whether located on-site of the subdivision or off-site. Two additional signs are permitted in accordance with Section F below. Each multifamily residential rental project is permitted a total of three residential directional signs, whether located on-site of the project or off-site.
C. Location of Signs.
1. Off-site residential directional
signs are permitted along any of the following streets as shown on the Master
Street Plan of the City of
2. Notwithstanding the provisions of C(l) above, no off-site residential directional sign shall be located in any built-up residential zoning district except where the rear yard of the residential lots abut on any of the streets listed in C(l) above and where such streets are at least 10 feet below the elevation of the lot pads.
3. Notwithstanding the provisions or C(l) and C(2) above, no off-site residential directional sign shall be located in any front yard setback, side yard setback or in any public right-of-way.
4. No off-site residential directional sign shall be permitted within 500 feet from the right-of-way of any freeway, unless, in the opinion of the Building Official, such sign is not intended or designed to be viewed from the freeway.
D. Sign Standards.
1. Sign Area and Size. Each project is allowed a total sign area of 375 square feet. The size of any off-site sign shall not exceed 35 square feet. The size of any on-site sign shall not exceed 200 square feet.
2. Height. The maximum height of any residential directional sign shall be according to Figure 1, but in no case more than 20 feet.
The height of such signs snall be measured from the average level of the natural ground below the sign to the highest point of any portion of the sign, frame or support structure.
Figure 1 goes here.
3. Spacing. Residential direcrional signs shall not be located closer than 200 feet to the next sign regulated under this Article as measured parallel to the street. This requirement shall not apply whcre signs are separated by a street.
4. Flanking. No more than two signs may be flanked in any one location. Flanking means to place signs side by side perpendicular to the street.
E. Multi-Faced Signs.
1. Multi-Faced Signs. In order to prevent the proliferation of signs, multi-faced signs are encouraged. As shown in Figure 2: double-faced signs are permitted a total of four sign areas: three-faced signs are permitted a total of six sign areas: and four-faced signs are permitted a total of eight sign areas.
Double Faced - Three Faced - Four Faced
Figure 2 goes here.
2. Use of Multi-Faced Signs. If more than one side of a multi-faced sign is used by the same project, it shall be counted as one sign. If the sides of a multi-faced sign are used by a different project, each face shall be counted as one sign for each project.
F. Supplementary Signs. The Building Official at his sole discretion may approve two supplementary signs for the projects which do not have frontage on any of the streets specified in Section C(l). The purpose of these supplementary signs is to help the public in finding the project via the shortest possible route and thus avoid unnecessary traffic on local residential streets. Supplementary signs shall be limited to two feet by four feet in size and shall not exceed six feet in height. The copy of the supplementary signs shall be limited to the name of the subdivision and directional information. The area of signs permitted under this Section shall be in addition to the total sign area as established in Section 1002 of this Article.
G. Procedures for Sign Approval and Removal.
1. Applications for signs regulated under Section 1002 shall be submitted to the Building Division.
2. Applications for sign approval shall include the following:
a. A plot plan showing the location of the proposed sign, the dimensions of the parcels of land upon which such sign is to be erected, the location within the city, and the location of any other sign regulated by this Article within 200 feet of the proposed sign.
b. A scale drawing of the proposed sign and all writing or copy to be included on the sign.
c. A scale drawing of the structural design of the sign.
d. The written consent of the owner of the land where the sign is to be located, including permission for the city to enter upon the property in order to inspect and -- or remove the sign.
3. Structural Requirements. The Building Official may deny the application if a sign does not meet structural design requirements.
4. Terms for Which Signs Are Permitted. All sign permits issued for subdivisions under this Section shall be valid for a period of one year. The Building Official may grant yearly extensions for good cause upon written requests by the applicant. The Building Official shall deny an application for extension for any sign which has become nonconforming with any provision of this Section.
All sign permits issued for newly constructed multifamily rental projects under this Section shall be issued on a one-time basis for the initial opening of such projects, and shall be valid for a period of three months.
5. Sign Removal. Signs shall be removed by the applicant within 10 days from the expiration of a valid sign permit. Single-faced signs or multi-facea signs used by the same project shall be physically removed including the structural supports. Removal of
individual signs on multi-faced signs used by two different projects shall be accomplished by either painting the sign surface in a neutral color or by removing the sign panel.
The Building Official may cause the removal of a sign without a valid permit, if the applicant does not remove such sign or bring it into conformance with this Article within 30 days of a written notice from the Building Official to the applicant.
6. Cash Deposit. Prior to the approval of a sign permit by the Building Official, the applicant shall deposit with the City a cash escrow in the amount and for the purpose established by City Council resolution. Only one cash deposit shall be required from each applicant, and said deposit shall serve as security for all signs maintained by each applicant and regulated under Section 1006 of this Article.
The Building Official is authorized to draw on a deposit to pay for any City expenses incurred in the enforcement of this Section in accordance with the purpose and procedures as established by City Council resolution. The applicant shall replenish the deposit to the required amount within 30 days after the City's mailing of a notice to the applicant that the deposit is below the required amount. Failure to replenish the deposit will be deemed cause to declare all sign permits of the apIlicant invalid.
7. Sign Modification Permit. Any sign not in conformance with the provisions of this Section may be approved by the Planning Commission upon application and subject to the procedures and requirements for issuing a Sign Modification Permit.
H. Effect of Article on Pre-Existing Signs. Any subdivision sign which was legally in existence at the effective date of this Article shall be brought into conformance with all provisions of this Article within two years of the effective date of this Article.
I. Model-Home Advertising. The following on-site advertising for model homes shall be permitted without applying for a sign permit. No words, logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted.
1. Signs identifying individual model homes, not exceeding 10 square feet per sign and placed near the entrance of the model home. No logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted.
2. Directional signs, not exceeding 10 square feet per sign, for vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the model home area. No logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted.
3. Flags on the model home site, provided they are kept in good repair at all times. Torn flags shall be replaced. No words, logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted.
All advertising for model homes shall be removed when the model home site is closed for more than 30 days.
J. Open House No logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted.
1. Signs used to attract attention for an Open House shall be limited to:
a. One double-sided picket sign placed no closer than five feet from the public right of way and completely on the property of the open house. Placing these signs elsewhere in the neighborhood or city is strictly prohibited. This sign shall be no larger than 2 ft high and 2.5 ft wide, each side.
b. One sign on the house itself announcing the origin of the property offerer. This sign shall be no larger than 1 sq. ft . This sign shall not be hung perpendicular to the facing wall, it must be on the facing wall.
c. One sign on the house itself with the exact words "OPEN HOUSE" . This sign shall be no larger than 2 sq. ft . This sign shall have red letters on white background only.
2. These signs shall not be placed more than 5 feet from the ground.
K. House For
1. Signs used to attract attention for a House For Sale shall be limited to:
a. One double-sided picket sign placed no closer than five feet from the public right of way and completely on the property of the open house. Placing these signs elsewhere in the neighborhood is strictly prohibited. This sign shall be no larger than 2 ft high and 2.5 ft wide, each side. No logos, icons, copywrited symbols or colors or trademarks are permitted.
b. One sign which must be on the house itself announcing the origin of the property offerer. This sign shall be no larger than 1 sq. ft . This sign shall not be hung perpendicular to the facing wall, it must be on the facing wall.
c. One sign on the house itself with the exact words "HOUSE FOR SALE" . This sign shall be no larger than 2 sq. ft . This sign shall be of red letters on white background.
2. These signs shall not be more than 5 feet from the ground.
1007 Prohibited Signs
A. Illegal Signs. An illegal sign is that which is first erected without government approval or permits, or a nonconforming sign which has exceeded its authorized abatement period. No person shall erect or permit to be erected any illegal sign.
1. Upon determination that a sign is illegal, the enforcement official shall issue written notice to the owner and -- or user of the sign, in the form of a warning, wherein the owner and -- or user has 48 hours to remove the sign, or obtain the proper permit if applicable. The enforcement official may grant an extension of time for removal of the sign not to exceed 30 days.
2. If the illegal sign is not removed and a permit is not obtained within 30 days, the owner and -- or user will be guilty of an infraction, and the enforcement officer will issue a citation. A fine of $5O will be assessed for this violation and will continue to be assessed each day thereafter, until the sign is removed.
B. Nonconforming Signs. A nonconforming sign is that which was legal when first erected, with all necessary permits, but due to a change in the law it became nonconforming.
1. A legal nonconforming sign shall immediately lose its legal nonconforming stature if:
a. The sign is altered in structure which tends to or makes the sign less in compliance with the requirement of this code than it was before the alteration; or
b. The sign structure is relocated to a position making it less in compliance with the requirement of this code.
c. The sign is replaced.
On the happening of any one of (a), (b) or (c) above. the sign shall be immediately brought into compliance with this code with a new permit secured therefor, or shall be removed.
2. Nothing in this section shall relieve the owner or user of a legal nonconforming sign or owner of the property on which the legal nonconforming sign is located from the provisions of this code regarding safety, maintenance, and repair of signs, provided, however, that any maintenance or repair of the sign or sign structure shall not modify the sign structure in any way which makes it more nonconforming.
3. Upon determination that a sign is nonconforming, the enforcement officer will issue written notice to the owner or user of the sign or to the owner of the property on which the nonconforming sign is located, requiring conformance or removal therefor if unable to conform. If, after a reasonably diligent attempt to serve written notice, the owner and user have not received notice, then the City must either post the notice or publish the notice in a local newspaper which is customarily used for notice by the City.
4. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Article, no nonconforming sign shall be compelled to be removed or abated without the payment of fair and just compensation by the City.
5. Fair and just compensation is presumed to be paid upon the total payment to the sign owner or user of the fair market value of the sign as of the date that written notice was given.
6. Fair market value consists of the actual cost of removal of the sign, the actual cost to repair damage caused to the real property thereon as a result of the removal, and the actual cost to duplicate the sign as of the date that written notice was given.
7. As an alternative, the City may pay fair and just compensation to the owner or user of the sign by paying the actual replacement cost for a sign that will conform with all the laws in effect that are applicable to the premises. This alternative will include as part of the actual replacement cost, the actual cost for removal of the nonconforming sign and the actual cost to repair damage caused to the real property thereon as a result of the removal.
8. For purposes of this section, every sign has a useful life of 15 years. The owner or user of the sign is entitled to fair and just compensation for the entire 15-year-period. However, upon the sale or assignment of the business premises to another, the amortization period ceases and the rights to amortization payments do not transfer and are not assignable to the new owner.
9. Signs removed during the 15-year-period and before the amortization period has lapsed shall be entitled to fair and just compensation which is equal to 1/15 of the fair market value of the sign multiplied by the number of years remaining in the amortization period.
C. Abandoned Signs. An abandoned sign is that which use is discontinued because the premises upon which it is located becomes vacated and unoccupied for a period of more than 30 days. A sign is not abandoned if it is a conforming sign and its owner and -- or user reasonably intends to use it or to have it used after the sale or assignment of the premises. Objective manifestations of intent to use the sign must be shown by the owner and -- or user in order for a vacated sign to be considered not abandoned.
1. No person, firm or corporation shall abandon any sign anywhere in the city. Upon the enforcement official's determination that a sign is abandoned, the enforcement official shall give written notice in the form of a warning to the owner and -- or former user of the abandoned sign. If, after a reasonably diligent attempt to serve written notice, the owner and former user have not received notice, then the City must either post the notice or publish the notice in a local newspaper which is customarily used for notice by the City.
2. The owner and -- or former user then has 30 days in which to request a public hearing from the City Council.
3. After the public hearing, if the City Council affirms that the sign is abandoned. the sign must be removed by the owner and -- or former user within 30 days. The owner and -- or former user is responsible for the cost of removing an abandoned sign.
4. If the abandoned sign is not removed by the expiration of the specified time, such sign is hereby declared to be a public nuisance, and the continued existence of such sign is declared to be unlawful.
5. The Building Official or other Public Official is authorized and directed to proceed in summary abatement of the sign after it is declared a public nuisance. The Building Official or Public Official must cause such sign to be removed by City forces or private contract, and is authorized to enter on the premises for such purpose.
6. The Building Official or other
relevant Public Official shall itemize all costs involved in the summary
abatement. The City Council shall determine whether the cost of the abatement
is reasonable and correct, and then mail a copy of the itemized costs to the
owner and -- or former user of the sign. The total cost of the abatement of
such nuisance shall constitute a special assessment against the parcel of land
to which it relates, and upon recordation in the Office of the
D. Display without Permission of Owner or Lessee. It is unlawful for any person to place or cause to be placed, or to maintain or cause to be maintained any sign without the lawful permission of the owner or lessee of the property upon which the sign is located.
1. Any person who knows or should reasonably know that any sign which that person owns or uses is placed without the lawful permission of the owner or lessee of the property upon which the sign is located shall be given written notice by the enforcement official in the form of a warning, wherein the owner and -- or user of the sign has 30 days to remove the sign.
2. If the sign is not removed within 30 days, the owner and -- or user of the sign will be guilty of an infraction, and the enforcement officer will issue a citation. A fine not exceeding $50 will be assessed for the first violation.
3. If the sign is not removed within a reasonable time after the first violation is issued, a second citation will be issued by the enforcement officer. A fine not exceeding $100 will be assessed for the second violation.
4. If the sign is not removed within a reasonable time after the second citation is issued, a third citation will be issued by the enforcement officer. A fine not exceeding $250 will be assessed for the third violation, and will continue to be assessed each day thereafter, until the sign is removed.
E. Public Property Limitations. No person shall place, paint or secure any lettering, advertisement, card, poster, sign or notice of any kind or cause same to be done, on any curb, sidewalk, post, pole, lamp post, hydrant, bridge, tree or other surface located on public property or within the public right-of-way except such signs as may herein be lawfully required or authorized. Any violation of the above provision shall be cause for the removal of the violation without notice.
1. The enforcement official is hereby given discretion to decide the time allowed for removal on a case by case basis, but in no event shall the period for removal be more than 10 days. In determining the time period allowed for removal, the enforcement official shall consider all the circumstances surrounding the particular sign's use. For example, if the sign were an A-frame-type sign located on public property, then the sign presumably could be removed quickly and easily. If, on the other hand, the sign was large and -- or attached by construction onto public property, then the maximum time period might be allowed for removal since the sign presumably could not be removed quickly and easily.
2. If the sign is not removed by the expiration of the specified time, such sign is hereby declared to be a public nuisance, and the continued existence of such sign is declared to be unlawful.
3. If the sign is not removed by the expiration of the specified time, the owner and -- or user of the sign will be guilty of an infraction and the enforcement officer will issue a citation. A fine not exceeding $50 will be assessed for the first violation.
4. If the sign is not removed within a reasonable time after the first violation is issued, a second citation will be issued by the enforcement officer. A fine not exceeding $100 will be assessed for the second violation.
5. If the sign is not removed within a reasonable time after the second citation is issued, a third citation will be issued by the enforcement officer. A fine not exceeding $250 will be assessed for the third violation, and will continue to be assessed each day thereafter, until the sign is removed.
6. The Building Official or other relevant Public Official is authorized and directed to proceed in summary abatement of the sign after it is declared a public nuisance. The Building Official or Public Official must cause such sign to be removed by City forces or by private contract.
7. The Building Official or other relevant Public Official shall itemize all costs involved in the summary abatement. The City Council shall determine whether the cost of the abatement is reasonable and correct, and then mail a copy of the itemized costs to the owner and or user of the sign. The total cost of the abatement of such nuisance shall be paid by the owner and -- or user of the sign. In the event of nonpayment by the owner and -- or user of the sign, the City shall attempt to collect the abatement costs in the regular manner that it collects on other outstanding judgments.
F. Hazardous or Unsafe Signs. A hazardous or unsafe sign is that which is determined by the enforcement official to pose an immediate threat to the public health, safety, or general welfare.
1. Any person who knows or should reasonably know that any sign which that person owns or uses is hazardous or unsafe shall be given written notice by the enforcement official in the form of a warning, wherein the owner and -- or user of the sign has no more than 10 days to remove the sign, or remedy the deficiency if feasible.
2. If the sign is not removed nor the deficiency remedied by the expiration of the specified time, such sign is hereby declared to be a public nuisance, and the continued existence of such sign is declared to be unlawful.
3. If the sign is not removed by the expiration of the specified time, the owner and -- or user of the sign will be guilty of an infraction, and the enforcement officer will issue a citation. A fine not exceeding $100 will be assessed for the first violation.
4. If the sign is not removed within a reasonable time after the first violation is issued, a second citation will be issued by the enforcement officer. A fine not exceeding $100 will be assessed for the second violation.
5. If the sign is not removed within a reasonable time after the second citation is issued, a third citation will be issued by the enforcement officer. A fine not exceeding $250 will be assessed for the third violation and will continue to be assessed each day thereafter, until the sign is removed.
6. The Building Official or other relevant Public Official is authorized and directed to proceed in summary abatement of the sign after it is declared a public nuisance. The Building Official or Public Official must cause such sign to be removed by City forces or by private contract, and is authorized to enter on the premises for such purpose.
7. The Building Official or other relevant Public Official shall itemize all costs involved in the summary abatement. The City Council shall determine whether the cost of the abatement is reasonable and correct, and then mail a copy of the itemized costs to the owner and -- or user of the sign. The total cost of the abatement of such nuisance shall be paid by the owner and -- or user of the sign. In the event of nonpayment by the owner and -- or user of the sign, the City shall attempt to collect the abatement costs in the regular manner that it collects on other outstanding judgments.
G. Right of Entry. When it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this Article, or when the Building Official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists any sign or a condition which makes such sign unsafe, abandoned, illegal or nonconforming, the Building Official is authorized to enter the lot, building, or premises on which such sign is located at all reasonable times to inspect the sign or to perform any duty imposed by this Article.
H. Denial of New Sign. No new sign permit will be issued for a use until all illegal signs have been removed.
I. Notice. For purposes of this Section, written notification deposited in the U.S. Mail, or personal delivery, or posting, or publication in local newspaper shall constitute proper notice.
J. Conflict and Severabiliy. If any portion of this code is found to be in conflict with any other provision of any zoning, building, fire safety or health ordinance of the code of the City, the provision which establishes the higher standard shall prevail.
1008 Sign
Registration
All Signs in the City of
A. Registration Process. The Owner of the property upon which the sign shall be used will register the sign before any and all permits may be obtained for the sign. These permits must be obtained or renewed for signs if any changes in use are requested. If the property sits unused for 30 days, these sign permits must be renewed.
1. Subsequently the _____________ Department shall issue to the Owner of the property upon which the sign shall be used, a boilerplate style ID placard.
2. The Owner of the property upon which the sign shall be used will place the placard on the sign in order to permit the sign to be displayed.
3. The placard shall be displayed in such a way as not to obscure the placard from view by a Building Official or relevant Public Official for purposes of validating registration.
B. Abatement. Any sign determined by an inspecting Official not to be registered, shall be declared Abandoned.
The provisions of this code are severable. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this code is in and shall remain in full force and effect.