Chapter 17.40
SIGNS
Sections:
17.40.030 Sign Permit Requirements
17.40.040 Exemptions from Sign Permit Requirements
17.40.060 General Requirements for All Signs
17.40.070 Zoning District Sign Standards
17.40.080 Standards for Specific Sign Types
17.40.100 Public Nuisance, Abatement, and Violation
17.40.010 Purpose
A. Purpose of chapter. The regulations established by this chapter are intended to appropriately limit the number, placement, size, and type of signs allowed within the City and to require the proper maintenance of signs.
B. Purpose of limitations. The purposes of these limitations and requirements are to:
1. Avoid traffic safety hazards to bicyclists, motorists, and pedestrians caused by visual distractions and obstructions.
2. Promote the aesthetic and environmental values of the community by providing for signs that do not impair the attractiveness of the City as a place to live, work, and shop.
3. Provide for signs as an effective channel of communication, while ensuring that signs are aesthetically proportioned in relation to adjacent structures and the structures to which they are attached.
4. Safeguard and protect the public health, safety, and general welfare.
5. Advance community design standards and safety standards as identified in the General Plan.
6. Maintain and improve the quality of the City’s appearance by subjecting certain signs to design review to ensure that their size, placement, and aesthetics are appropriate to their site and surroundings.
17.40.020 Applicability
A. Signs regulated. The requirements of this chapter shall apply to all signs in all zones.
B. Applicability to sign content. The provisions of this chapter do not regulate the message content of signs (sign copy), regardless of whether the message content is commercial or noncommercial.
C. Definitions. Definitions of the specialized terms and phrases used in this chapter may be found in Article 7 (Glossary) under “Sign.”
17.40.030 Sign Permit Requirements
A. Sign Permit required.
1. Approval required. A Sign Permit is required for the installation or modification of all permanent wall signs, projecting signs, freestanding/monument signs, and window signs. No sign shall be constructed, installed, or modified, unless a Sign Permit is first obtained in compliance with this section, or the sign is allowed without a Sign Permit by Section 17.40.040 (Exemptions from Sign Permit Requirements). A proposed sign that is professionally rendered and in strict compliance with this chapter shall be approved or denied by the Zoning Administrator through a Zoning Clearance; provided, that the Zoning Administrator may choose to refer any Sign Permit application to the Board of Architectural Review for consideration of approval. The appropriate review authority shall review each sign permit application and approve only those that comply with the findings required in Subsection D of this section (Findings for approval).
a. Conditions of approval. The review authority may require conditions of approval that are deemed reasonable and necessary to achieve the purpose, intent, and objectives of this chapter.
b. Approval criteria. The approval or non-approval of an application for a sign permit shall be guided by the criteria identified in this chapter. If the review authority finds that a proposed sign substantially complies with the standards of this chapter, the review authority shall approve the sign.
c. Appeal. A decision of the Zoning Administrator or Board of Architectural Review rendered in compliance with this chapter may be appealed in compliance with Chapter 17.76 (Appeals).
2. Compliance with standards required. No Sign Permit shall be approved for an existing or proposed sign unless the sign is in compliance with all applicable requirements of this chapter.
3. Building Permit required. A Building Permit may also be required for sign construction/installation in accordance with the 2008 California Building Code and amendments made thereto as adopted by the Seaside City Council.
4. Temporary signs. Temporary signs shall comply with Subsection 17.40.040.D (Temporary Signs) and Section 17.40.080 (Standards for Specific Sign Types).
B. Master Sign Program required. A Master Sign Program shall be approved by the Board of Architectural Review for any new sign permit on an existing commercial, quasi-public/institutional, and/or multi-family complex on a single project site with two or more tenants, and any new multiple-tenant project which requires a Use Permit, Variance, or is a planned unit development. No Sign Permit shall be issued for an individual sign requiring a Sign Permit for a new sign on an existing or newly developed multiple tenant commercial/residential project on a single project site with two or more tenants unless and until a Master Sign Program for the property in which the sign will be erected has been approved by the Board of Architectural Review. As part of Master Sign Program approval, the Board of Architectural Review may grant exceptions to the standards of this chapter for the maximum size and number of signs, based on design features including architectural style, proportion to landscaping, site visibility, and building mass. A Master Sign Program shall conform to and complement the architectural design and character of the structure erected or to be erected on the project site. Subsequent signs that are required to comply with an existing approved Master Sign Program shall be reviewed and approved by the Zoning Administrator through a Zoning Clearance, in compliance with Section 17.62.020.
C. Application requirements. An application for a Sign Permit shall be filed and processed in compliance with Chapter 17.60 (Permit Application Filing and Processing). The application shall be accompanied by detailed and fully dimensioned plans, architectural drawings and sketches, and data/materials identified in the Department handout for sign permits, and any applicable fees. It is the responsibility of the applicant to establish evidence in support of the findings required by Subsection D of this section (Findings for approval).
D. Findings for approval. The approval of a Sign Permit shall require that the review authority first make all the following findings, as applicable:
1. The proposed signs do not exceed the standards of Sections 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards) and 17.40.080 (Standards for Specific Sign Types) and are of the minimum size and height necessary to enable pedestrians and motorists to readily identify the facility or site from a sufficient distance to safely and conveniently access the facility or site.
2. The placement of the sign on the site is appropriate for the height and area of a freestanding or projecting sign.
3. A flush or projecting sign relates to the architectural design of the structure. Signs that cover windows, or that spill over natural boundaries and/or cover architectural features, shall be prohibited.
4. The proposed signs do not unreasonably block the sight lines of existing signs on adjacent properties.
5. The placement and size of the sign will not impair pedestrian or vehicular safety.
6. The design, height, location, and size of the signs are visually complementary and compatible with the scale and architectural style of the primary structures on the site, any prominent natural features on the site, and structures and prominent natural features on adjacent properties on the same street.
7. The proposed signs are in substantial conformance with the design criteria in Subsection 17.40.060.F (Design criteria for signs).
E. Expiration and extension of Sign Permit approval.
1. Approval of a Sign Permit shall expire 12 months from the date of approval unless the sign has been installed or a different expiration date is stipulated at the time of approval. Before the expiration of a sign permit, the applicant may apply to the Department for an extension of up to an additional 12 months from the original date of expiration.
2. The expiration date of the Sign Permit shall be automatically extended to concur with the expiration date of the companion Building Permit or other applicable permits for the project.
17.40.040 Exemptions from Sign Permit Requirements
The following signs are allowed without Sign Permit approval; provided they comply with Section 17.40.060 (General Requirements for All Signs), and any required Building Permit is obtained:
A. Nonstructural modifications and maintenance.
1. Modifications to sign copy on conforming signs shall be reviewed and approved by the Zoning Administrator through a Zoning Clearance in compliance with Section 17.62.020 (Zoning Clearance); and
2. The normal maintenance of conforming signs shall be exempt from a Sign Permit, except as identified in Subsection 17.40.060.I (Maintenance of signs).
B. Governmental and informational signs.
1. All devices which are excluded from the definition of a “sign” as set forth in this Zoning Code.
2. Official traffic signs or other municipal governmental signs, legal notices, advertisement prescribed by law and placed by governmental entities and signs indicated the location of buried utility lines or any notice posted by a governmental officer in the scope of his duties.
3. Direction, warning, or information signs or structures required or authorized by law, or by federal, state, county, or City authority, including, but not limited to, traffic control signs (e.g., stop, yield), highway route number signs, and construction zone signs.
4. Utility company signs identifying cables, conduits, danger, and so forth. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs in order to comply with state and local laws and to promote public safety.
5. Time and temperature signs containing no advertising copy. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs to promote awareness of local conditions for individuals with medical problems and to promote public safety.
6. Signs and advertising for the California State Lottery as authorized by California Government Code, Section 8880 et seq. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs in order to comply with state law.
7. Gas pricing signs, as required by state law, which identify the brand, types, octane rating, etc., of gasoline for sale within the City. The City has a compelling interest in permitting such signs in order to comply with state law.
8. Signs prohibiting trespassing or hunting. The City has a compelling interest to allow property owners to post these signs for the protection of life and private property and to promote public safety.
C. Identification signs and addresses.
1. Street identification and house (i.e., single-family, duplex/triplex, multi-family apartment complex of four or more units) identification signs not exceeding two square feet.
2. Address numbers are permitted not exceeding 12 inches in height.
D. Temporary signs. The following temporary signs are allowed without a Sign Permit:
1. Real estate signs. Real estate signs are allowed without a Sign Permit in compliance with California Civil Code Section 713 and subject to the following requirements:
a. Commercial, industrial, and other nonresidential zones. Properties within commercial, industrial, and other nonresidential zones shall be allowed as follows:
(1) Signs pursuant to Civil Code Section 713 may be freestanding or wall mounted.
(2) The maximum area of a freestanding commercial real estate sign or wall sign advertising a parcel for sale or lease shall be 24 square feet. A maximum of one freestanding sign shall be allowed for a parcel of less than one acre. For a parcel greater than one acre with multiple street frontages, a maximum of one freestanding sign shall be permitted on two separate frontages.
(3) The maximum area of a wall sign advertising a commercial building and/or commercial complex for sale or lease shall be 32 square feet. One wall sign shall be permitted for sign which advertises a parcel or existing complex for sale or lease. Each individual tenant space within a multi-tenant commercial/industrial building may have one wall sign either affixed to the exterior of the building not exceeding 16 square feet in area, or the interior windows subject to applicable window regulations and a maximum of one for each tenant space.
b. Residential zones.
(1) On-site signs. One non-illuminated real estate sign not more than six square feet in area, including riders, advertising the sale or lease of a parcel or structure, may be located on the property it advertises. A freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of six feet and must staked to the ground or mounted on a post or pole that is securely placed in the ground.
(2) Off-site directional signs. Off-site real estate directional signs not more than four square feet in area, including riders, may be located on private property; provided they do not obstruct or impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic and are not secured to prevent removal. No real estate sign shall be allowed within a public right-of-way.
(3) Garage, yard, estate signs. Signs advertising the one-day sale of items from a garage, yard, estate, or other home-based sale. A maximum of four signs, each a maximum of six square feet, may be allowed. Such signs shall not be affixed to any utility pole or street sign pole.
2. Political signs. Political signs are allowed in compliance with the following requirements:
a. Two days prior to the placement of a political sign, the agent/candidate shall file with the City Clerk an acknowledgment of the rules related to political signs and a plan for the removal of all signs.
b. No political sign shall be erected prior to 60 days before the election to which the sign pertains.
c. In commercial and industrial zones, each political sign and the total area of political signs on a parcel shall not exceed 32 square feet in area. The area of a double-faced sign shall be calculated for one face only, unless the two faces are not back-to-back, parallel, and/or are separated by more than 12 inches.
d. In residential zones, political signs on a parcel shall not exceed six square feet in area.
e. No political sign shall be located within a public right-of-way.
f. All political signs shall be removed within 10 days after the election to which the signs pertain.
E. Permanent window signs. Signs that hang or are stenciled on the inside or outside of a window may be permitted, but shall not exceed six square feet per storefront. Such signs should be encouraged to promote business identification, hours of operation, and address information.
F. Miscellaneous signs.
1. Official flags. Flags of national, state, or local governments, or nationally recognized religious, fraternal, or public service agencies; provided the length of the flag shall not exceed one-fourth the height of the flag pole and the flag is not used for commercial advertising.
2. Illumination, patterns, pictures, and/or symbols approved as architectural ornamentation or decoration by the review authority.
3. Historical plaques erected and maintained by nonprofit organizations, memorials, building cornerstones, and date-constructed stones; provided, that none of these exceed four square feet in area.
4. Signs or displays located entirely inside of a structure which does not exceed four square feet per storefront. Window signs are regulated separately.
5. Signs created by landscaping.
6. Small, temporary signs, otherwise in conformance with the duration, number, and size requirements of this chapter, that address noncommercial issues.
7. Small, temporary banners not exceeding 24 square feet in area advertising special events sponsored by non-profit organizations. Applicant shall be limited to displaying a maximum of four off-site locations and the banners may be on display 30 days in advance of the event and removed that day after the event.
G. All violations will be subject to the following penalties:
1. Any sign exceeding the allowable square footage of signage on a parcel will incur a penalty of $300.00 per sign per day. Signs are placed on a first come, first served basis. If multiple signs are on the parcel, proof must be provided as to the first sign placed.
2. Signs not removed within 10 days after the election shall incur a penalty of $300.00 per sign per day.
3. Any signs erected prior to 60 days prior to the election will incur a $500.00 fine per sign and will also be prohibited from posting political signs at that same location for five days.
H. Enforcement of the above provisions will be as follows:
1. It is the responsibility of the candidate to provide any volunteers given signs for placement a copy of the rules. The City will generate an easy to understand flyer which explains election sign regulations.
2. Signs placed in the public rights-of-way will be removed immediately by City staff.
3. Twenty-four-hour notice will be given for signs that exceed the total allowable square footage on a parcel. If not remediated, the penalty will apply. Each additional day of failure to remove will be fined as an additional occurrence.
4. No cure period is required for violations of signs erected prior to 60 days prior to an election.
5. No cure period is required for failing to remove signs 10 days after the election. It is the responsibility of the candidate to remove all signs. After initial notice, each additional day of failure to remove will be fined as an additional occurrence. (Ord. 1078 § 1, 2020)
17.40.050 Prohibited Signs
All signs not expressly allowed by this chapter shall be prohibited. Examples of prohibited signs include the following:
A. Abandoned signs;
B. Animated signs, including electronic message display signs, and variable intensity, blinking, or flashing signs, or signs that emit a varying intensity of light or color, except time and temperature displays (which are not considered signs) and electronic message display signs for places of worship and public and private meeting facilities;
C. Balloons and other inflatable devices;
D. Billboards and any other off-premises signs, except as allowed by Civil Code Section 713 (Subsection 17.40.040.D.1.b(2) – Off-Site Directional Signs; Subsection 17.40.040.F.7 – Miscellaneous signs);
E. Flags, except as specifically allowed by Subsection 17.40.040.F.1 (Official flags);
F. Illegal signs;
G. Moving signs, and other similar signs that are stationary but contain moving parts;
H. Obscene signs;
I. Pennants and streamers, except in conjunction with an athletic event, carnival, circus, or fair, or as allowed in Subsection 17.40.040.D (Temporary signs);
J. Pole signs and other freestanding signs over six feet in height in residential zones;
K. Roof signs or any sign placed above the roof line (except for mansard roofs);
L. Because of the City’s compelling interest in ensuring traffic safety, signs that simulate in color, size, or design, any traffic control sign or signal, or that make use of characters, symbols, or words in a manner that interferes with, misleads, or confuses pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
M. Signs in the form or shape of a directional arrow, or otherwise displaying a directional arrow, except as may be approved by the review authority, or as may be required for safety and convenience and for control of pedestrian or vehicular traffic within the premises of the subject use;
N. Signs attached to or suspended from a boat, float, vehicle, or other movable objects parked within a public right-of-way, or in a location on private property that is visible from a public right-of-way, except a sign painted directly upon, magnetically affixed to, or permanently affixed to the body or other integral part of the vehicle. See Seaside Municipal Code Subsections 10.32.070.A through D (Advertising vehicles for sale prohibited);
O. Signs burned, cut, or otherwise marked on or otherwise affixed to a hillside or tree;
P. Signs with reflective material;
Q. Signs within the public right-of-way, except for signs installed or maintained by a government agency for traffic safety and directional purposes;
R. Signs in residential zones, except as specifically allowed in Subsection 17.30.070.A;
S. Signs in storage or in the process of assembly or repair, located outside on premises other than that advertised in the signs, that are visible from a public right-of-way; and
T. Temporary and portable signs, except as specifically allowed by Subsection 17.40.040.D (Temporary signs). (Ord. 1045 § 3(1), 2017)
17.40.060 General Requirements for All Signs
The following rules shall govern the computation of sign area:
A. Sign area measurement. Sign area measurement to determine compliance with the sign area limitations of this chapter shall occur as follows:
1. Surface area. The surface area of a sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all emblem, framing, logo, representation, writing, or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles with no more than eight perimeter lines (see Figure 3-15).
2. Sign structure. Supporting bracing or framework that is determined by the Zoning Administrator to be clearly incidental to the display itself shall not be included in the calculation of total sign area.
3. Multi-faced signs. The area of a double-faced sign shall be calculated for one face only, unless the two faces are not back-to-back, parallel, and/or are separated by more than 12 inches.
4. Three-dimensional objects. The area of a sign consisting of one or more three-dimensional objects (e.g., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), shall be measured as their maximum projection upon a vertical plane (see Figure 3-17).
B. Sign height measurement. The height of a sign shall be computed as the vertical distance from the lowest point of the base of the sign at normal grade, to the top of the highest attached component of the sign (see Figure 3-17). Normal grade shall be construed to be the lower of either the:
1. Existing grade before construction; or
2. Newly established grade after construction, exclusive of any berming, filling, mounding, or excavating solely for the purpose of locating the sign.
Figure 3-17 – Sign Measurement
C. Sign height limitations.
1. Maximum height for freestanding signs. A freestanding sign shall not exceed a height of six feet above normal grade in residential zones. Freestanding signs shall be limited to 14 feet above normal grade in all other zones except as allowed under a Master Sign Program or specific plan.
2. Maximum height for signs on structures. The top of a sign mounted on a structure shall not extend higher than the lesser of:
a. The window sills of the second floor, except for hotel/motels;
b. The top of the wall to which the sign is attached, in the case of a one-story structure; or
c. Twenty feet above normal grade; or
d. As approved in accordance with Master Sign Program.
D. Sign location requirements. Each sign shall be located in compliance with the following requirements and all other applicable provisions of this chapter:
1. Each sign shall be located on the same site as the subject of the sign, except as otherwise allowed by this chapter.
2. No sign shall project over public property, or the public right-of-way, except where the City has granted an Encroachment Permit in addition to a Sign Permit.
3. No sign shall be placed so as to interfere with the operation of a door, fire escape, or window.
4. Signs shall not be located within traffic safety visibility areas (see Subsection 17.30.030.E), unless otherwise approved by the Public Works Department. Exception: Pole signs with a grade to bottom of sign cabinet clearance of at least six feet may be located within traffic safety visibility areas.
E. Signs placed within the public right-of-way.
1. No sign shall be allowed within the public right-of-way except for the following:
a. Public signs erected by or on behalf of a governmental agency to convey public information, identify public property, post legal notices, or direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic;
b. Bus stop signs installed by a public transit company;
c. Informational signs of a public utility regarding its lines, pipes, poles, or other facilities; or
d. Emergency warning signs erected by a governmental agency, a public utility company, or a contractor doing authorized work within the public right-of-way.
e. Awnings, canopies, projecting signs, and marquees which are entirely supported on private property may extend up to four feet into the public right-of-way or no closer than three feet from the portion of the public right-of-way used for vehicular traffic (measured from the face of the curb). Portions of the awnings, canopies, projecting signs, and marquees extending into the public right-of-way or over a public sidewalk shall have a minimum vertical clearance of eight feet between the bottom of the structure and the surface of the ground, sidewalk, or paving.
2. Any sign installed or placed within the public right-of-way other than in compliance with this section shall be forfeited to the public and be subject to confiscation.
3. In addition to other remedies identified in Chapter 17.80 (Enforcement and Penalties), the City shall have the right to recover from the owner, or person placing the sign, the full costs for sign removal and disposal.
4. A sign permit shall not be required for City, state, or federal signs placed within the public right-of-way.
F. Design criteria for signs. The following design criteria shall be used in reviewing the design of individual signs. Substantial conformance with each of the following design criteria shall be required before a Sign Permit or Building Permit can be approved:
1. Color. Colors on signs and structural members should be harmonious with one another and relate to the dominant colors of the other structures on the site. Contrasting colors may be utilized if the overall effect of the sign is still compatible with the structure colors and prevailing colors in the surrounding neighborhood (where a theme can be identified).
2. Design and construction. The intent of this subsection is to ensure public safety, to achieve signs of careful construction, neat and readable copy, and durability, to reduce maintenance costs, and to prevent dilapidation.
a. Each sign should be designed by a professional (e.g., architect, building designer, landscape architect, interior designer, or another whose principal business is the design, manufacture, or sale of signs) or others who are capable of producing professional results.
b. Each permanent sign should be constructed by persons whose principal business is building construction or a related trade including sign manufacturing and installation businesses, or others capable of producing professional results.
c. Raceways and other electrical or mechanical sign components not directly incorporated into the sign design shall be concealed within the sign structure or building facade.
3. Materials and structure.
a. Sign materials (including framing and supports) shall be representative of the type and scale of materials used on the primary on-site structure and on other on-site signs.
b. Materials for permanent signs shall be high quality, durable, and capable of withstanding weathering over the life of the sign with reasonable maintenance. Signs shall not be constructed of exposed plywood or other composite wood material; all wood materials shall contain a vinyl- or paint-coated face or be treated with a sealant to withstand the outside elements. If a marine density overlay (MDO) board is used, edges shall be sealed with weatherproofed trim and flashing.
c. The size of the structural members (e.g., braces, columns, and crossbeams) shall be proportional to the sign panel they are supporting. In general, fewer larger supporting members are preferable to many smaller supports.
d. The use of individual letters incorporated into the structure’s design is encouraged, rather than signs with background and framing other than the structure’s wall(s).
4. Street address. The review authority may require that a sign include the site street address, where it determines that public safety and emergency vehicle response would be more effectively served than if the street address were displayed solely on one or more structures on the site.
G. Copy design guidelines. The City does not regulate the message content (copy) of signs; however, the following are principles of copy design and layout that can enhance the readability and attractiveness of signs. Copy design and layout consistent with these principles is encouraged, but not required.
1. Sign copy should relate only to the name and/or nature of the business or commercial center.
2. Permanent signs that advertise continuous sales, special prices, or include phone numbers, etc., should be avoided.
3. Information should be conveyed briefly or by logo, symbol, or other graphic manner. The intent should be to increase the readability of the sign and thereby enhance the identity of the business.
4. The area of letters or symbols should not exceed 40 percent of the background area in commercial and industrial zones or 60 percent in residential zones.
5. Freestanding signs should contain the street address of the parcel or the range of addresses for a multi-tenant center.
H. Sign lighting. Sign lighting shall be designed to minimize light and glare on surrounding rights-of-way and properties in compliance with Section 17.30.070 (Outdoor Lighting) and the following:
1. External light sources shall be directed and shielded so they do not produce glare on any object other than the sign.
2. The light illuminating a sign shall not be of a brightness or intensity that will interfere with the reasonable enjoyment of residential properties.
3. Sign illumination shall not blink, flash, flutter, or change light brightness, color, or intensity, except for electronic message display signs per Section 17.40.080.I, Electronic Message Display Signs.
4. Colored lights shall not be used at a location or in a manner so as to be confused or construed as traffic control devices.
5. Neither the direct nor reflected light from primary light sources shall create hazards for pedestrians or operators of motor vehicles.
6. Reflective-type bulbs and incandescent lamps that exceed 15 watts shall not be used so as to expose the face of the bulb or lamp to a public right-of-way or adjacent property.
7. Light sources shall utilize hard-wired fluorescent or compact fluorescent lamps, or other lighting technology that is of equal or greater energy efficiency.
8. Permanently installed illuminated panels, visible tubing, and strings of lights outlining all or a portion of a structure, other than lighting that is primarily for indirectly illuminating architectural features, signs, or landscaping, shall be deemed “signs” subject to this chapter and shall be counted as part of the allowed sign area. Each line of tubing or lights shall be deemed to have a minimum width of at least six inches for the purpose of calculating area.
I. Maintenance of signs.
1. Each sign and supporting hardware, including temporary signs, shall be maintained in good repair and functioning properly at all times.
2. Any repair to a sign shall be of equal or better in quality of materials and design as the original sign.
3. A sign that is not properly maintained and is dilapidated shall be deemed a public nuisance, and may be abated in compliance with the Municipal Code and Chapter 17.36 (Property Maintenance).
4. When an existing sign is removed or replaced, all brackets, poles, and other supports that are no longer required shall be removed.
5. Unpainted areas shall be painted to match the adjacent portion of the structure or the sign support structure.
6. All electronic message display signs shall contain a default mechanism that will cause the sign to revert immediately to a black screen if the sign malfunctions. (Ord. 1045 §§ 3(2, 3), 2017)
17.40.070 Zoning District Sign Standards
Each sign shall comply with the sign area, height, number, type, and other restrictions provided by this section, except as otherwise expressly provided in Section 17.40.080 (Standards for Specific Sign Types).
A. Residential zones. Each sign in a residential zone shall comply with the following requirements:
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Allowed Sign Types |
Maximum Sign Height |
Maximum Number of Signs Allowed per Parcel |
Maximum Sign Area Allowed per Parcel |
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Single-Family Residential Use |
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No signs allowed |
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Multi-Family Residential Use (apartments, condominiums, or residential subdivisions of greater than 5 lots) |
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Wall or freestanding |
Wall signs: below edge of roof Freestanding: 6 ft |
1 of either allowed sign type |
24 sf |
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Nonresidential Use |
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Wall or freestanding |
Wall signs: below edge of roof no higher than 12 ft above grade Freestanding: 6 ft (See Figure 3-17 for sign height measurement) |
1 of either allowed sign type |
32 sf |
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Electronic message display signs for private and public meeting facility |
Up to 8 ft permitted; minor use permit for signs up to 14 ft |
1 per parcel (may be double-sided with a maximum cabinet depth of 24 inches) |
40 sf per side with a maximum digital screen area of 24 sf (maximum of 2 sides) |
B. Commercial and industrial zones. Each sign in the commercial and industrial zones established by Section 17.06.020 (Zoning Map and Zones) shall comply with the requirements in Table 3-16, in addition to the provisions of Section 17.40.080 (Standards for Specific Sign Types), as applicable.
Figure 3-18 – Examples of Sign Types
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Allowed Sign Types |
Maximum Sign Height |
Maximum Number of Signs Allowed per Parcel |
Maximum Sign Area Allowed per Parcel |
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Ground-Mounted and Ground-Floor Signs |
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Awning (17.40.080.B) |
Below roof (1); at least 8 ft above walking surface |
Single tenant site or structure: 3 of any combination of allowed sign types per primary structure frontage. 1 of any allowed sign type on a secondary frontage.
Site or structure with 2 or more tenants: The number, and type of all signs within a multi-tenant commercial building shall be determined in accordance with a Master Sign Program. |
Maximum sign area per parcel. The total sign area on a parcel shall comply with the following requirements: 1. 1 sf for each linear foot of primary building frontage not to exceed 100 sf. 2. 0.5 additional sf for each linear foot of secondary building frontage not to exceed 50 sf. 3. Each site is allowed a total sign area of at least 25 sf regardless of frontage length.
Site with 2 or more tenants: Allowed an additional freestanding identification sign of 0.25 sf for each linear foot of total primary structure frontage, up to a maximum of 100 sf. |
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Freestanding/Pole Sign (17.40.080.C) |
14 ft |
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Marquee, Projecting, Wall (17.40.080.E, 17.40.080.G) |
Below roof (1); a marquee or projecting sign shall be at least 8 ft above walking surface |
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Suspended (17.40.080.E) |
Below eave/canopy; at least 8 ft above a walking surface |
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Temporary/Portable |
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Electronic Message Display Signs |
Up to 8 ft permitted; minor use permit for signs up to 14 ft |
1 per parcel (may be double-sided with a maximum cabinet depth of 24 inches) |
40 sf per side with a maximum screen area of digital display at 24 sf (maximum of 2 sides) |
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Window |
See Section 17.40.080.H |
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Second-Floor Signs |
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Awning, Projecting, Wall |
Below roof (1) |
1 per tenant space |
12 sf for each tenant; 1 directory sign not to exceed 12 sf is also allowed to identify upper-floor occupants |
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Window |
See Subsection 17.40.080.H |
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Indoor Signs and Outdoor Signs Not Visible from a Street |
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Awning, Freestanding, Projecting, Suspended, Wall, Window |
Below roof (1) |
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Notes:
(1) At least one foot below the top of a parapet, the sill of a second-floor window, and/or the lowest point of any cornice or roof overhang. At least one foot below the top of a parapet for a hotel/motel.
(Ord. 1045 § 3(4), 2017)
17.40.080 Standards for Specific Sign Types
Proposed signs shall comply with the following standards applicable to the specific sign type. Each sign type listed in this section shall be included in the calculation of the total sign area allowed on a parcel by Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards), unless this section explicitly provides otherwise. Each sign shall also comply with the sign area, height, and other requirements of Section 17.40.060 (General Requirements for All Signs) and all other applicable provisions of this chapter. Any noncommercial message may be substituted for the copy on any commercial sign allowed by this chapter.
A. A-board and other portable sidewalk signs. Each business may display one A-board or other portable sign in compliance with the following standards (see Figure 3-19):
1. Limitation on location. An A-board or other portable sign shall be allowed only on private property.
2. Sign size. Each sign shall not exceed a width of 30 inches. Sign height shall be limited to 48 inches. Sign height shall be measured perpendicular from the sidewalk surface to the highest point of the A-board sign.
3. Sign placement. A portable sidewalk sign shall be placed only within the boundaries of the applicable business’s street frontage and shall be positioned so that it will not:
a. Obstruct required ADA sidewalk clearance;
b. Impede any line of sight for motorists at vehicular public right-of-way intersections, as recommended by the City Engineer;
c. Interfere with people exiting and entering parked cars; or
d. Be located within any landscaped area.
4. Design and construction standards. The review authority shall approve an A-board sign only if it first determines that the design and appearance of the sign, including any graphics and/or text, will reflect attractive, professional design and that the sign will be durable and stable when in place.
5. Stabilization. The sign shall be stabilized to withstand wind gusts or shall be removed during windy conditions.
6. Daily removal. The sign shall be removed at the close of business each day.
7. Maintenance. The sign shall be continuously maintained in good condition with no peeling paint or other deterioration.
B. Awning signs. The following standards apply to awning signs in all zones where allowed by Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards) (see Figure 3-20):
1. Signs on awnings are limited to ground-level or second-story occupancies only.
2. Awnings shall not be internally illuminated. Direct exterior lighting may be allowed.
3. Translucent awning materials are prohibited.
C. Freestanding signs. The following standards apply to freestanding signs in all zones where allowed by Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards) (see Figure 3-21):
1. Multiple signs shall be separated by a minimum of 75 feet to ensure adequate visibility for all signs. The City Engineer may modify this requirement where the locations of existing signs on adjacent properties would make the 75-foot separation impractical.
2. A sign shall not project over public property, vehicular easements, or rights-of-way, and shall not obstruct a traffic safety sight area, as determined by the City Engineer.
3. To assist emergency response personnel in locating the site, freestanding signs should/shall contain an illuminated street address plate. Numbers should/shall be a minimum of six inches in height. Street address numbers not exceeding 12 inches in height shall not be included in calculations of allowed sign area.
D. Murals. A mural placed on the wall of a structure may be allowed in any commercial or industrial zone subject to the following:
1. A mural without text visible from a public right-of-way may be approved in addition to (not counted as part of) the sign area allowed by Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards); a mural with text advertising the use of the business shall comply with the sign area limitations applicable to the site.
2. Murals that illustrate the local setting and history as sources of inspiration are encouraged.
3. All murals are subject to approval by the Board of Architectural Review in compliance with Section 17.62.030 (Architectural Review).
4. The approval of a mural shall require that the review authority first find that the colors, placement, and size of the mural are visually compatible with the structure’s architecture, and that the mural will serve to enhance the aesthetics of the City.
E. Projecting signs. The following standards apply to projecting signs in all zones where allowed by Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards) (see Figure 3-22):
1. The maximum projection of a sign from a structure wall shall not exceed four feet or extend closer than three feet from the face of curb of the public sidewalk. Any projection over a public right-of-way shall require an Encroachment Permit from the City Engineering Division.
2. The top of a projecting sign shall not exceed the lesser of 14 feet, eave height, parapet height, or sill height of a second-floor window. No portion of the sign shall project above the eave line of a sloped roof or the top of the parapet on a flat roof.
3. A projecting sign shall maintain a minimum clearance of eight feet from the bottom of the sign to the finished grade or sidewalk below.
4. Icon signs using shapes or symbols uniquely suited to the business, creative shapes, and three-dimensional signs are encouraged (see Figure 3-23).
5. Each sign shall be graphically designed for pedestrians, with a maximum area of eight square feet on each sign face, regardless of the length of the building frontage.
6. Sign supports shall be well-designed and compatible with the design of the sign.
F. Temporary signs. Temporary signs other than A-boards are allowed subject to the following requirements. A-board signs are instead subject to the requirements of Subsection A of this section:
1. Banners and pennants. A single temporary banner and/or pennant sign on private property shall comply with the following requirements:
a. The use of a banner or pennants may be allowed only for a licensed business for a period not to exceed 30 consecutive days.
b. A temporary sign permit may be issued for not less than two consecutive days, up to 30 days.
c. A business is only allowed one temporary sign permit for banners or pennants every three months beginning in January and ending in December of each year in addition to the 30 days allowed for a business grand opening banner.
d. Temporary banners and pennants shall be subject to the same size, placement, and height restrictions as permanent signs for the applicable zone.
e. Banners and pennants shall be affixed to an exterior building facade or pole and shall not extend above the roof line or placed on top of a roof.
f. The application for a temporary sign permit for banners or pennants shall include the dates proposed by the applicant for scheduled banner use.
g. A bond may be posted for a banner permit as required by the Zoning Administrator. The bond may be revoked if the temporary banner or pennants are not removed within two days following their scheduled use.
2. Subdivision signs. Signs advertising land subdivisions in any zone shall be limited to one two-sided sign of 32 square feet in area placed at a right angle to the street, or two one-sided signs of 32 square feet in area each facing the street. The signs shall be at least 200 feet apart and shall be placed only on the subdivision site or on land leased by the subdivider. The signs shall be removed within 30 days after the final lot of the subdivision is sold. The signs shall be nonilluminated.
3. Construction signs. Construction identification signs may be allowed in all zones in compliance with the following standards:
a. The number, placement, size, and type of signs shall comply with the sign requirements of Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards) for the applicable zone.
b. The signs shall be removed before final building inspection or the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
4. Other temporary signs. Temporary signs may be authorized by the Zoning Administrator, upon submittal of a sign application, plan for removal, and the fees required by the City’s Fee Schedule.
a. Maximum sign area.
(1) In a residential zone, the combined area of temporary signs shall not exceed three square feet.
(2) In a commercial or industrial zone, the combined area of temporary signs shall not exceed 24 square feet.
b. Maximum number of signs. No more than one temporary sign shall be erected on a premises at a time.
c. Sign placement. Temporary signs shall be subject to the same placement and height restrictions as permanent signs for the applicable zone. An off-premises temporary sign (located on a site or location other than that of the advertised activity) shall only be allowed in conjunction with an activity approved under a Limited Term Permit, in compliance with Section 17.62.040.
d. Time limits. Temporary signs shall not be allowed for more than 30 consecutive days. Temporary signs shall not be allowed for a combined total of more than 60 days in a 12-month period. Signs advertising a particular event shall be removed within 10 days after the event.
e. Inflatable or tethered signs. Inflatable or tethered signs are allowed for special events and may be installed for a period not to exceed five consecutive days, no more than two times in a 12-month period. These signs may exceed the maximum sign area and sign height standards for the applicable zone.
G. Wall signs. A wall sign shall not project more than 12 inches from the surface to which it is attached.
H. Window signs. The following standards apply to permanent window signs where allowed by Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards) (see Figure 3-24):
1. Maximum sign area. Permanent window signs shall not occupy more than 25 percent of the total window area.
2. Sign location. Signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground level and second story of a structure frontage.
3. Sign materials. Signs shall consist of individual letters, logos, or symbols applied to, stenciled on, or etched into the glass surface. Neon signs with transparent backgrounds may be hung inside the window glass.
4. Unobstructed observation. The lowermost portion of the entire window(s) (a minimum of 24 inches) shall be clear of any signs in order to allow for unobstructed observation by security personal (e.g., City police, private security).
I. Electronic message display signs. The following standards apply to electronic message display signs where allowed by Section 17.40.070 (Zoning District Sign Standards) (see Tables 3-15 and 3-16):
1. Location.
a. Signs shall be located on a either an arterial roadway or collector street in a manner that the Zoning Administrator determines will not adversely interfere with the visibility or functioning of traffic signals or traffic signage, taking into consideration physical elements of the sign and surrounding area, such as information analyzing physical obstruction issues, line of sight issues, brightness issues and visual obstruction or impairment issues. No electronic changeable message sign shall be permitted on a local street.
b. Signs must be 50 feet or more from the nearest residence on the same street as the sign.
2. Sign area measurement. The area of an electronic message display sign does not count toward area limits for other signs in Section 17.40.070.
3. Animation. Animated messages shall be limited to fading and dissolving, with no other effect to give the appearance of movement.
4. Audio. No sign shall include any audio message.
5. Duration. Signs messages shall have a minimum hold time of 30 seconds.
6. Timing. The sign will not illuminate from the message display area between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
7. Illumination. Electronic changeable message signs may be illuminated with continuous internal LED lighting. No sign shall be illuminated so that the primary source of the light is visible beyond the property line or in any way will cause excessive glare or brightness in excess of 0.3 foot candles. The Zoning Administrator reserves the right to require and/or complete a post-installation inspection of the sign illumination. If, as a result of this inspection, it is determined that the illumination is so bright as to adversely impact adjacent properties and uses, the Zoning Administrator may require shielding or a reduction and/or adjustment in the intensity of the sign illumination, so that it is in keeping with the general level of illumination of the surrounding properties. Such intensity restriction may vary by time of day and ambient light conditions. Illuminated signs located adjacent to any residential area shall be shielded to direct light downward and away from adjacent properties such that there is no spillover light and shall be controlled by a rheostat or functional equivalent to avoid excessive glare to residential properties.
8. Light detector. No permit for such sign shall be issued unless the sign is installed with an automatic or a scheduled dimming time by which the sign’s light intensity will reduce when ambient light conditions darken. Such dimming feature shall reduce the light intensity from the sign from dusk to dawn to a level that does not impair the visibility on any adjacent roadway, or be directed onto a residential property. (Ord. 1045 § 3(5), 2017)
17.40.090 Nonconforming Signs
A nonconforming sign is any permanent or temporary sign that was legally established and maintained in compliance with the provisions of all applicable laws in effect at the time of original installation but that does not now comply with the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance.
A. General requirements.
1. A nonconforming sign shall not be:
a. Changed to another nonconforming sign;
b. Structurally altered to extend its useful life;
c. Enlarged;
d. Re-established after a business is discontinued for 30 days;
e. Re-established after damage or destruction to 50 percent or more of the value of the sign, or its components, as determined by the City’s Building Director; or
f. Reinstalled after facade improvements that required the removal of the sign during construction.
2. Any interruption in the use of a nonconforming sign(s) that continues for 60 days or more shall be deemed to be an abandonment of the sign(s). Subsequent use shall comply with the regulations of this chapter. Nonoccupation or nonoperation of the building or business advertised on the sign shall be deemed an interruption of the use of the sign(s).
B. Exceptions. An exception to the requirements of Subsection A of this section may be granted by the Commission; provided the Commission shall first make the following findings:
1. The new proposed sign is significantly more conforming in area and/or height than the existing sign; and
2. By approving the new sign, the exception will eliminate the existing nonconforming sign.
C. Maintenance and allowed changes. Changes to sign copy, face nonstructural modifications, and nonstructural maintenance (e.g., painting, rust removal) are permitted subject to the approval of a Sign Permit.
17.40.100 Public Nuisance, Abatement, and Violation
A. Signs on vacated buildings. Signs on premises that have been vacated for 60 days or more, and signs on multi-tenant buildings advertising a business that has been vacated for 60 days or more, shall be immediately removed by the owner after the expiration of that period. The Zoning Administrator may issue a notice to remove the signs after the expiration of the 60-day period. The notice to remove shall specify a 15-day period during which the signs shall be removed. If the owner does not remove the signs during the 15-day period, the Zoning Administrator may have the sign removed at costs borne by the City. The City will bill the property owner for all costs related to removal and storage. Costs not paid to the City shall be recovered in compliance with Chapter 17.80 (Enforcement and Penalties).
B. Violation, abatement, and penalties. Any sign within the City that fails to comply with the requirements of this chapter, other applicable state statutes, or City ordinances, or for which a Sign Permit has not been obtained in compliance with this chapter, shall be subject to abatement in compliance with Chapter 17.80 (Enforcement and Penalties).
17.40.110 Judicial Review
Any permit issued or denied in compliance with this chapter shall be subject to expedited judicial review to the extent provided by the time limits identified in Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6 et seq.