Chapter 14.09.260
Signs
Sections:
14.09.260.040 Prohibited Signs.
14.09.260.050 Sign Procedures.
14.09.260.060 Sign Measurement.
14.09.260.070 General Provisions.
14.09.260.080 Permanent Signs.
14.09.260.090 Temporary Signs.
14.09.260.100 Sign Standards for Specific Land Uses and Development Types.
14.09.260.110 Nonconforming Signs.
14.09.260.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety, and welfare through a comprehensive system of reasonable, effective, consistent, content-neutral, and nondiscriminatory sign standards and requirements. More specifically, this chapter is intended to:
A. Balance public and private objectives by allowing adequate avenues for both commercial and noncommercial messages;
B. Allow signs to serve as an effective channel of communication while preventing visual clutter that will detract from the aesthetic character of the City;
C. Protect and improve the local economy and quality of life by preserving and enhancing the City’s visual appearance and character;
D. Direct persons to various places, activities, and uses, and to provide for the public convenience;
E. Maintain and enhance the City’s appearance by regulating the location, number, type, quality of materials, size, illumination, and maintenance of signs;
F. Restrict signs that may create a nuisance to nearby properties, violate privacy, or create hazards and distractions for pedestrians or drivers;
G. Provide clear and unambiguous sign standards that enable fair and consistent enforcement; and
H. Ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right of free speech is protected.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.020 Applicability.
A. Applicable to All Zoning Districts. The provisions of this chapter apply to all signs in all zoning districts, constructed or altered on or after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title, unless otherwise specified. If any zoning district or specific plan imposes requirements which conflict with those set forth by this chapter, the more restrictive provisions shall prevail.
1. The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to prohibit a person from holding a sign while picketing or protesting on public property that has been determined to be a traditional or designated public forum, so long as the person holding the sign does not block ingress and egress from buildings, create a safety hazard by impeding travel on sidewalks, in bike or vehicle lanes, or on trails, or violate any other reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions adopted by the City.
2. The provisions of this chapter shall not require alteration of the display of any registered mark, trademark, service mark, trade name, or corporate name that may be associated with or incorporated into a registered mark, where such alteration would require the registered mark to be displayed in a manner differing from the mark as exhibited in the certificate of registration issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. It is the responsibility of the applicant to establish that a proposed sign includes a registered mark.
B. Regulatory Interpretations. The provisions of this chapter shall be applied in a content-neutral manner. Noncommunicative aspects of all signs, not related to the content of the sign, shall comply with the provisions of this chapter. “Noncommunicative aspects” include the time, place, manner, location, size, height, illumination, spacing, and orientation of signs.
C. Message Substitution. A noncommercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any permitted commercial message. Any noncommercial message may be substituted for any noncommercial message. Any on-site commercial message may be substituted for any on-site commercial message.
1. No Additional Approval Required. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval, permitting, registration, or notice to the City. This provision prevents any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech or favoring any noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message.
2. Limitations. This provision does not allow the following:
a. Create the right to increase the total amount of signage for a parcel, lot, or land use;
b. Affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted;
c. Allow a change in the physical structure of a sign or its mounting device;
d. Allow a sign that could be confused with or interfere with any official traffic device, traffic signal, or directional sign;
e. Authorize the substitution of an off-site commercial message in place of an on-site commercial message or in place of a noncommercial message.
f. Nullify or eliminate any contractual obligation through a development agreement or similar agreement that specifies the allowable content of a sign; or
g. Permit the conversion of an existing sign to a billboard.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.030 Exempt Signs.
The following signs are exempt from the permit requirements of this chapter, and do not count toward the maximum sign area limitation for a site; provided, that they conform to the specified standards.
A. Architectural Features. Architectural features, symbols embedded in architecture that are permanently integrated into the structure of a permanent building, including stained glass windows, carved or bas relief doors or walls, bells, and religious statuary.
B. Government Signs. Any sign, posting, notice or similar signs placed, installed or required by law by a city, county, or a federal or state governmental agency in carrying out its responsibility to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, including, but not limited to, the following:
1. Emergency and warning signs necessary for public safety or civil defense;
2. Traffic signs erected and maintained by an authorized public agency;
3. Numerals and letters identifying an address from the street to facilitate emergency response and compliant with city requirements;
4. Signs required to be displayed by law;
5. Signs directing the public to points of interest, except for sign programs identifying a district or area or set of destinations, such as City-wide wayfinding signage, or sign programs adopted as part of a specific plan; and
6. Signs showing the location of public facilities.
C. Grave Markers. Grave markers, gravestones, headstones, mausoleums, shrines, and other markers of the deceased.
D. Historic Plaques and Commemorative Signs. Historic plaques, memorial signs or tablets, or commemorative signs indicating names of buildings and dates of building erection, either attached to or cut into the surface of a building, not to exceed four square feet in area.
E. Minor Signs. Minor signs which do not exceed four square feet in sign area and 10 feet in height do not require a sign permit and may be placed as follows:
1. One minor sign facing each parking stall in a parking lot.
2. One minor sign on each side of each driveway entrance to a parking lot.
3. One minor sign at each entrance to a building.
4. Inflatable, temporary, moveable, gymnasium devices commonly used for children’s birthday parties, and similar devices, commonly referred to as “bounce houses” or “party jumps.”
5. News racks and newsstands.
F. Signs not readable from the public right-of-way, such as:
1. Signs or displays located entirely inside of a building and not visible from the building’s exterior;
2. Signs intended to be readable from within a parking area but not readable beyond the boundaries of the lot or parcel upon which they are located or from any public right-of-way; and
3. Signs located within City recreation facilities.
G. Signs that are an integral part of an allowed vending machine or similar facility located outside of a business.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.040 Prohibited Signs.
The following signs are prohibited.
A. Location Restrictions.
1. Signs Located in the Public Right-of-Way or on Public Property. Other than official government signs or warning signs required by law, any sign placed in or projecting into the public right-of-way or on public property, unless expressly authorized by this chapter or an encroachment permit.
2. Signs Affixed to Trees or Terrain. Signs affixed to or cut into trees or other living vegetation, or cut, burned, marked, or displayed on a street, sidewalk, cliff, hillside, or other terrain feature.
3. Signs Creating Traffic or Pedestrian Safety Hazards. Signs placed or located in such a manner as to constitute a traffic or pedestrian safety hazard.
B. Display Restrictions.
1. Animated or Motion Signs. Animated, flashing, blinking, reflecting, revolving, or other similar sign with visibly moving or rotating parts or visible mechanical movement of any kind, unless expressly permitted by another section of this chapter.
2. Balloons, Inflatable Signs, Streamers, and Other Attention-Getting Devices. Balloons, inflatable signs, streamers, pennants, and other attention-getting devices, made of lightweight fabric or similar material, designed to rotate or move with the wind, that direct and promote, or are otherwise designed to attract attention.
3. Billboards. The new construction, erection, or use of billboards is prohibited, except for as follows:
a. Digital freeway billboards approved under Section 14.09.260.100.B, Digital Freeway Billboards; or
b. Those approved under a relocation agreement as provided in Section 14.09.260.110, Nonconforming Signs.
4. Message Center Signs. All message center signs used for any use, except for those approved under Section 14.09.260.100.B, Digital Freeway Billboards.
5. Search Lights and Klieg Lights. Search and arc lights when used as attention-attracting devices for commercial uses.
6. Signs Producing Noise or Emissions. Signs producing visible smoke, vapor, particles, odor, noise, or sounds that can be heard at the property line.
7. Signs for Prohibited Uses. A sign displaying a commercial message promoting a business that is a prohibited use and that has not been established as a legal nonconforming use.
8. Unauthorized Signs. Signs that have been placed on private or public property without the consent of the property owner or as authorized in this chapter.
(Ord. 1995, Amended, 07/23/2024; Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.050 Sign Procedures.
All permanent and temporary signs may be installed only subject to a sign permit and in compliance with this section, unless specifically stated otherwise. The owner shall also be responsible for obtaining other applicable permits and approvals, such as building permits, electrical permits, and grading permits.
A. Sign Permit Required. Prior to installing any sign requiring a permit under this chapter, the applicant shall submit a sign permit application to the Director of Community Development. Applications and fees for a sign permit shall be submitted in accordance with the provisions set forth in Section 14.09.030.030, Application Forms and Fees. The Director of Community Development may request further information regarding the location, design, dimensions, and installation details of all proposed signs.
1. Sign Permit Only. If the sign permit application is not connected to another land use permit application, the Director of Community Development shall review the application in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 14.09.030 of this code, Common Procedures. The Director of Community Development shall approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application based on compliance with the standards of this chapter.
2. Concurrent Review. For projects which require another land use permit and include signs, the applicant shall submit a concurrent sign permit application to the Director of Community Development. The decision maker shall review the sign permit application concurrently with the primary application and shall decide based on conformance with the standards of this chapter. Discretionary review shall be limited to the time, place, and manner aspects of the proposed sign.
B. Sign Program Required. Sign projects for nonresidential development that includes multiple buildings, multiple tenant spaces, or multiple lots shall require a planned sign program approval.
1. Purpose. The purpose of a planned sign program is to provide a method for an applicant to integrate the design and placement of signs with the overall development design to achieve a more unified, coordinated aesthetic appearance.
2. Application. Applications and fees for a planned sign program shall be submitted in accordance with the provisions set forth in Section 14.09.030.030, Application Forms and Fees. The Director of Community Development may request plans, elevations, and further information regarding the location, design, dimensions, and installation details of all proposed signs.
3. Decision Maker. Planned sign programs are subject to review by the decision maker for the project with which the signs are associated. A planned sign program may be submitted separately or concurrently with other applications for the project.
4. Review and Decision. The planned sign program shall be reviewed for conformance with the standards in this chapter. While the application may be reviewed concurrently with another application that is subject to discretionary review, discretionary review shall not be used in the review of any communicative aspects of the signs comprising the planned sign program.
5. Required Findings and Bonus Sign Allowance. The decision maker shall make a minimum of eight of the 11 findings for common sign elements listed below. The decision maker may allow one additional freestanding sign, or one additional wall sign per building frontage if they can make all of the following findings.
a. All wall signs, except for one per building frontage, are installed at the same height on the building elevation.
b. All wall signs, except for one per building frontage, are the same height (from the bottom to the top of the sign).
c. All wall signs, except for one per building frontage, are the same geometric shape.
d. The faces of all wall signs are the same material.
e. The cabinets of all wall signs are of the same material and color.
f. All wall signs have the same illumination method, such as interior illumination, exterior illumination, or use of neon.
g. All freestanding signs have frames and supports that are the same color as the building’s primary color or primary trim color.
h. All freestanding signs have frames and supports that are of the same material or appear to be of the same material as the siding materials of the building.
i. If there is more than one freestanding sign, all freestanding signs shall have the same basic shape.
j. The faces of all freestanding signs are of the same materials as the wall signs.
k. The illumination method of the freestanding signs is the same as the wall signs.
6. Sign Permit Conformance with Planned Sign Program. The Director of Community Development shall review a sign permit application for installation of a sign in the area covered by an approved planned sign program. The application shall be approved if it conforms to the approved planned sign program.
7. Nonconforming Planned Sign Program. A planned sign program approved by the City prior to the enactment of this chapter or any revisions hereto that does not conform to the provisions of this chapter shall continue to remain in effect. If an application is submitted to modify the nonconforming planned sign program, the modified planned sign program shall conform to the provisions of this chapter.
8. Modifications to Planned Sign Program. The Director of Community Development shall review any proposed modification to an approved planned sign program, based on conformance with the standards of this chapter. The Director of Community Development shall approve a proposal to modify an approved, nonconforming planned sign program if the proposed modification results in the program coming closer to complying with the standards of this chapter.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.060 Sign Measurement.
A. Measuring Sign Area. Building elements, painting, striping, and supporting structures are not included in the sign area measurement. The sign area is the total area contained within the smallest rectangular perimeter encompassing the sign, structures, and any background embellishments.
1. Single-Faced Signs. The sign area is the area of the sign face.
FIGURE 14.09.260.A: MEASURING SIGN AREA FOR SINGLE-FACED SIGNS
2. Double-Faced Signs. For a sign whose two faces are back-to-back, parallel, and located two feet or less apart, the sign area shall be taken as the area of the larger face, or one face if the two faces are of equal area.
FIGURE 14.09.260.B: MEASURING SIGN AREA FOR DOUBLE-FACED SIGNS
3. Multi-Faced Signs. The sign area is the sum total area of all sign faces.
FIGURE 14.09.260.C: MEASURING SIGN AREA FOR MULTI-FACED SIGNS
4. Three-Dimensional Signs. Three-dimensional signs include those that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects such as balls, cubes, clusters, or sculpture-like trademarks. The sign area is the sum of the area of the four vertical sides of the smallest rectangular prism that will encompass the sign.
FIGURE 14.09.260.D: MEASURING SIGN AREA FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL SIGNS
B. Measuring Sign Height. The height of a sign is the vertical distance from the uppermost point used to measure sign area, to the existing grade immediately below the sign.
FIGURE 14.09.260.E: MEASURING SIGN HEIGHT
C. Measuring Sign Clearance. Sign clearance shall be measured as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the sign, including any framework or background embellishments.
FIGURE 14.09.260.F: MEASURING SIGN CLEARANCE
D. Measuring Building Frontage. Building frontage shall be measured as the widest lineal dimension, parallel to the ground, of a continuous frontage. A building’s frontage is considered continuous if projections or recesses in a building wall do not exceed 10 feet in any direction. For buildings with two or more frontages, the length of the frontage and allowable sign area shall be calculated separately for each building frontage.
FIGURE 14.09.260.G: MEASURING BUILDING FRONTAGE
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.070 General Provisions.
A. Applicable Codes. In addition to complying with the provisions of this chapter, all signs shall be constructed in accordance with the Uniform Building Code, the Electrical Code, and all other applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies.
B. Encroachment. Signs mounted on private property may project into or above public property or the public right-of-way only with approval of an encroachment permit.
C. Illumination.
1. Amount of Illumination. The amount of illumination allowed shall be sufficient to allow visibility of the sign but shall not produce excessive glare on adjacent properties or create a traffic hazard. Illuminated signs facing a residential zoning district shall not cast light that exceeds one-half foot-candle at the residential property line, nor cast any intermittent light.
2. Message Center Signs.
a. Message center signs shall not include the use of a flashing, intermittent, or moving light, or any illumination that is in motion or appears to be in motion or changes in light intensity, in accordance with Section 14.09.260.040 of this code, Prohibited Signs.
b. Messages shall be displayed for a minimum of four seconds and the interval between messages shall be a maximum of one second.
D. Sign Maintenance. All signs shall be maintained by any property owner, lessor, lessee, manager, agent, or other person having lawful possession or control over a sign, building, structure, or parcel of land, in a condition or state of equivalent quality to which was approved or required by the City.
1. All signs together with their supports and appurtenances shall be maintained in good structural condition, in compliance with applicable building and electrical codes, and in conformance with this chapter. Maintenance of a sign includes periodic cleaning, replacement of flickering, burned out or broken light bulbs or fixtures, repair or replacement of any faded, peeled, cracked, or otherwise damaged or broken parts of a sign, and any other activity necessary to restore the sign so that it continues to comply with the requirements and contents of the sign permit issued for its installation and provisions of this chapter.
2. Landscape Maintenance. Required landscaped areas contained by a fixed border, curbed area, wall, or other perimeter structure shall receive regular repair and maintenance. Plant materials that do not survive after installation in required landscape areas are required to be replaced within three months of the plant’s demise.
3. Removal of Unused Signs. Any vacant and/or unused sign support structures, angle irons, or other remnants of old signs which are not currently in use or proposed for immediate reuse evidenced by a permit application for a permitted sign, shall be removed. When a building mounted sign is removed, the wall shall be repaired and restored to its original condition. When a freestanding sign is removed, all supports including the footings shall be removed and the area shall be finished to match the contiguous landscape or surfaced area.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.080 Permanent Signs.
Sign allowances and standards for permanent signs are established by zoning district. The following signs require a sign permit:
A. Agricultural and Residential Zoning Districts.
1. Residential Uses. Signs are allowed for residential uses on sites at least five acres in size consistent with the following standards:
a. Number of Signs. Two signs per residential site entrance.
b. Maximum Sign Area. Thirty-two square feet per sign.
c. Maximum Sign Height. Six feet.
2. Nonresidential Uses and Multi-Unit Residential Uses. Signs are allowed for nonresidential uses and multifamily residential uses with more than four dwelling units consistent with the following standards:
a. Number of Signs. One sign per building frontage.
b. Maximum Sign Area. Thirty-two square feet per sign.
c. Maximum Sign Height. Six feet.
B. Commercial and Mixed-Use Zoning Districts.
1. Wall Signs.
a. Number of Signs. One per building frontage, plus one per tenant.
b. Sign Area.
i. Minimum. Twenty square feet per lot regardless of building frontage length.
ii. Maximum. One square foot per one linear foot of building frontage. Each building elevation shall be given sign square footage for only that frontage and may not combine other street frontage signage to increase signage. The maximum letter height may be 24 inches, except logos or individual letters may be 30 inches. All signs shall be internally or halo-lit illuminated with an individual letter design. No cabinet signs or exposed raceways are permitted.
(A) If a building has frontage on more than one public street or right-of-way, the sign area for the lesser length frontages shall not exceed one-half square foot of sign area per lineal foot of building frontage.
(B) A portion of the allowed sign area on one building frontage may be transferred to another building frontage provided the maximum sign area on any one frontage is not increased by more than twice the maximum allowed sign area on that frontage.
2. Freestanding Signs. For purposes of this subsection, contiguous lots that function as an integrated development with reciprocal parking and/or access easements or rights shall be considered one site.
a. Number of Signs. One per site on a public street, provided the site has off-street parking.
i. If a site has frontage on more than one public street or right-of-way, each frontage of at least 100 feet in length shall be allowed one sign.
ii. If a site has over 300 feet in length of frontage on a public street, one additional sign may be placed for each additional 300 feet of frontage. The additional sign shall also be consistent with the maximum sign area and height standards for sites with less than 100 feet of frontage (see below).
b. Maximum Sign Area.
i. Less Than 100 Feet of Frontage. Twenty-five square feet.
ii. One Hundred Feet or More of Frontage.
(A) Local or Collector Street. Forty square feet.
(B) Four-Lane Undivided Arterial Street. Fifty square feet.
(C) Four-Lane Divided Arterial Street. Ninety square feet.
c. Maximum Sign Height.
i. Less Than 100 Feet of Frontage. Ten feet.
ii. One Hundred Feet or More of Frontage.
(A) Local or Collector Street. Fifteen feet.
(B) Four-Lane Undivided Arterial Street. Twenty feet.
(C) Four-Lane Divided Arterial Street. Twenty-five feet.
d. Minimum Distance Between Freestanding Signs. Two hundred fifty feet.
e. Additional Regulations.
i. If a proposed sign is located within 100 feet of another existing freestanding sign on an abutting property on the same street frontage, the proposed sign shall not obstruct the view of the existing sign by a motorist approaching the sign in the closest lane in that direction on the adjacent public or private street at a distance of not less than 300 feet from the existing sign.
ii. If a lot has no frontage on a public street, the owner of that lot may enter into an agreement with the owner of an adjacent lot that fronts on a public street. With such an agreement, the owner of the lot with street frontage may increase the size of one freestanding sign on that lot by up to 20 square feet more than the maximum size otherwise allowed. This provision does not apply to any multi-tenant development on multiple lots where there is a coordinated and integrated plan for signage, access, and parking.
3. Freeway Signs. A site is eligible for a freeway sign if it is at least five acres in size and located within 300 feet of the nearest edge of freeway right-of-way. Contiguous lots may be considered as one site if the total area is at least five acres in size and all lots are encumbered with a recorded easement, restriction, or instrument restricting the freeway sign.
a. Number of Signs. One sign per site.
b. Maximum Sign Area.
i. Single Tenant. One hundred seventy-five square feet.
ii. Multiple Tenants. Three hundred twenty-five square feet.
c. Maximum Sign Height.
i. Single Tenant. Twenty-five feet above the elevation of the freeway or 35 feet above the grade at the location of the sign, whichever is greater.
ii. Multiple Tenants. Five additional feet per tenant, up to 60 feet.
iii. Alternatives. The Director of Community Development shall approve a sign that exceeds the height limitations prescribed in this subsection up to a maximum sign height of 60 feet if the applicant demonstrates that an approaching freeway motorist’s view of the proposed sign would be obscured by a freeway overcrossing or other obstruction from a viewing distance of one-quarter mile.
d. Design Standards.
i. Materials and Colors. All sign panels shall consist of the same materials, colors, and opacity. All raised individual letters, symbols, pictures, or logotypes shall consist of the same materials. This shall not preclude coloring an area of up to 75 percent of the panel underneath the letters, symbols, pictures, or logotypes an alternative color.
ii. Shape. Sign panels shall be in the shape of a rectangle, triangle, trapezoid, circle, oval, parallelogram, or regular polygon.
4. Projecting Signs/Blade Signs.
a. Encroachment. Signs placed in or projecting into the public right-of-way or on public property shall require an encroachment permit and shall require a minimum clearance of eight feet from the ground below.
b. Number of Signs. One per tenant, which may be two-sided.
c. Maximum Sign Area. Six square feet per sign face.
d. Design Standards.
i. All signs shall be internally or halo-lit illuminated with an individual letter design.
ii. No cabinet signs or exposed raceways are permitted.
iii. All signs shall use painted dimensional letters mounted to the blade panel.
C. The following uses shall be eligible for a freeway sign:
1. Restaurants and eating establishments;
2. Service stations;
3. Automobiles and other vehicles, sales and service, new;
4. Hotels and motels;
5. Bars and lounges;
6. Recreation centers and outdoor commercial recreation; and
7. Retail shopping centers that contain a minimum of 80,000 square feet of floor area and at least one tenant within that shopping center that has a minimum floor area of 20,000 square feet.
D. Employment Zoning Districts.
1. Total Sign Area. The total sign area shall be one square foot of sign area per lineal foot of building frontage, up to a maximum of 300 square feet for all signs.
2. Wall Signs.
a. Number of Signs. One wall sign per tenant space per building frontage.
b. Maximum Sign Area. Two hundred square feet.
3. Freestanding Signs.
a. Building and Tenant Signs.
i. Number of Signs. One freestanding sign per building frontage, plus one additional freestanding sign for each 300 feet of linear street frontage.
ii. Maximum Sign Area. Forty square feet.
iii. Maximum Sign Height. Fifteen feet.
iv. Minimum Distance Between Freestanding Signs. Two hundred fifty feet.
b. Industrial Park Entrance Sign. The first entrance to an industrial park is allowed one sign, with maximum sign area of 64 square feet. Any additional entrance is allowed one sign, with maximum sign area of 32 square feet. The maximum sign height shall be 10 feet.
E. Public and Semipublic Zoning Districts.
1. Wall Signs.
a. Total Sign Area. The total sign area shall be one square foot of sign area per lineal foot of building frontage, up to a maximum of 150 square feet for all signs. If a building has more than one frontage on a public street, the sign area for the lesser length frontage shall be one-half square foot of sign area per lineal foot of frontage.
b. Number of Signs. One wall sign per tenant space per building frontage.
2. Freestanding Signs.
a. Number of Signs. One freestanding sign per building frontage.
b. Maximum Sign Area. Fifty square feet.
c. Maximum Sign Height. Ten feet.
(Ord. 1996, Amended, 07/23/2024; Ord. 1985, Amended, 07/25/2023; Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.090 Temporary Signs.
A. Sign Permit Not Required. This section provides for temporary signs not located within a public right-of-way or on City property commonly known or referred to as “real estate signs,” “garage sale signs,” “campaign signs,” “construction signs,” “banners,” “feather banners”, and “event posters.” The foregoing examples notwithstanding, nothing in this section shall regulate or restrict the content of such signs. A sign permit is not required for temporary signs that comply with the provisions of this chapter except as otherwise may be required under the Uniform Code. Any lot may contain temporary posters, banners, portable signs, yard signs, or ground signs not exceeding the maximum limits set forth in the table below without requiring a sign permit. Any temporary poster, banner, portable sign or yard sign may remain in place for a period not exceeding 60 calendar days. Any temporary ground sign may remain in place for a period not exceeding two years provided it is constructed and anchored as required by the Uniform Sign Code. These time limits do not prevent the sign being replaced with another temporary sign from time to time.
|
Zoning District |
Number of Signs (per lot) |
Maximum Sign Area (per sign) |
Maximum Sign Height |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Residential Zoning District |
2 |
16 square feet |
8 feet |
|
All Other Zoning Districts |
2 signs, or 1 sign per 100 feet of street frontage, whichever is greater |
32 square feet |
10 feet |
1. Temporary Signs During Specific Periods. In addition to the temporary signs allowed under subsection A of this section, additional temporary signs are allowed during the specific time periods listed below.
a. Special Event Period. A special event period is a time period designated by a property owner during which the number of temporary signs on the site is not limited. Temporary signs may be up to 100 square feet. In a commercial or industrial zone, the owner may designate a special event period of up to a total of 60 calendar days during any calendar year, which may or may not be continuous. In any other zone, the owner may designate a special event period of up to a total of 30 calendar days during any calendar year, which may or may not be continuous. The owner shall notify the Director of Community Development of the beginning and ending dates of the special event period.
b. Election Period. An election period is that time beginning 90 calendar days prior to any official election within Solano County and ending 30 calendar days after the election. During an election period, the number of temporary signs on a site is not limited. Temporary signs may be up to 100 square feet.
c. Construction Period. A construction period is that time beginning when a building permit or similar permit authorizing construction on a site is issued and ending 30 calendar days after the final inspection or approval of the construction or expiration of the permit. During a construction period, one additional temporary sign not to exceed 64 square feet in area may be placed on the site.
B. Sign Permit Required. The following temporary signs are allowed but require a sign permit prior to their installation:
1. Temporary Signs at an Industrial Park. One temporary sign shall be allowed at the boundary of an industrial park with undeveloped lots on each street or freeway frontage. Each sign may not exceed 128 square feet in area or 15 feet in height. All such signs shall be removed within seven calendar days of the sale or lease of the last lot within the industrial park.
2. Temporary Signs at a Residential Subdivision During the Initial Sales Phase. Each residential subdivision shall be allowed temporary signs within the subdivision subject to the following standards. Signs permitted under this section shall not be installed until and unless a final map has been recorded for the subdivision with the Solano County Recorder. This provision does not require any particular content of the signs.
a. Two temporary signs not exceeding 32 square feet in total area for each sign nor more than six feet in height nor 10 feet in horizontal length shall be allowed.
b. The temporary signs shall be removed within seven calendar days of the sale of the final residential lot within the subdivision.
c. No sign shall be located within 100 feet of an occupied residence or building.
(Ord. 1995, Amended, 07/23/2024; Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.100 Sign Standards for Specific Land Uses and Development Types.
A. Drive-Through Facility. Drive-through facilities may have additional signs located in the drive-through area, subject to the following requirements:
1. Location. Drive-through area signs shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from the public right-of-way.
2. Height. Drive-through area signs shall be a maximum of 10 feet tall.
3. Letter Size. All letters, logotypes, pictures, or symbols shall be a maximum of six inches in height.
B. Digital Freeway Billboards. Digital freeway billboards may be allowed in commercial and employment zoning districts, subject to the following requirements:
1. Applicability. The provisions of this subsection apply to all digital freeway billboards located within the City of Vacaville, including, but not limited to, the construction of new digital freeway billboards and the conversion of existing static (standard) billboards into digital billboards.
2. Development Standards. All digital freeway billboard proposals shall comply with the development regulations identified in Table 14.09.260.B, Digital Freeway Billboard Development Regulations.
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Standard |
Notes |
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Development Standards |
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Permitted Zoning Districts |
Commercial and employment zoning districts |
See Table 14.09.040.A of this code |
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Permitted Locations |
See subclassifications below |
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Interstate 80 |
Parcels east of Leisure Town Road and west of Midway Road |
Only on parcels abutting Interstate 80 See Note (a) |
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Interstate 505 |
Parcels north of Vaca Valley Parkway, south of Midway Road, and west of Interstate 505 |
Only on parcels abutting Interstate 505 Not allowed within Nut Tree Airport area of influence |
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Maximum Sign Width |
60 feet |
See California Business and Professions Code Section 5408(a) |
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Maximum Sign Height |
25 feet |
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Maximum Sign Area |
1,200 square feet |
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Maximum Number of Sign Faces |
2 sign faces (one in each direction) |
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Maximum Height |
65 feet |
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Minimum Separation between Billboard Structures |
3,000 feet |
Measured as a radius between digital billboards |
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Minimum Distance from Sensitive Receptors |
300 feet |
See Note (b) |
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Angle to the Freeway |
To the extent possible, the billboard shall be located and oriented in a manner that avoids or minimizes the direct exposure of the display to view from adjacent or nearby residential or hotel uses. Lighting shall be designed to direct light and glare away from adjoining lots, residential areas, and public streets. |
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Landscaping |
All areas not being used for the billboard structure or for maintenance access shall be landscaped. |
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Design Standards |
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City Identification |
At least one of the following shall be included on the structure in a location visible from the freeway: • “Vacaville” • “City of Vacaville” • The City logo |
Subject to major design review approval, as established by Chapter 14.09.290 of this code. See Note (c) |
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Theming |
The billboard structure shall incorporate Vacaville-specific designs and themes, such as, but not limited to, golden hills, biotechnology, and agriculture, subject to approval by the City Council. |
Subject to major design review approval, as established by Chapter 14.09.290 of this code. |
a. Airport Land Use Commission Consistency Determination. A proposal for a digital billboard located along Interstate 80 within the Nut Tree Airport area of influence shall be referred to the Solano County Airport Land Use Commission for a determination of consistency with the Nut Tree Airport land use compatibility plan.
b. Sensitive Receptors. For the purposes of this subsection, a sensitive receptor includes the following uses:
i. All residential uses, as identified under Section 14.02.060.010, Residential Uses; and
ii. Lodging.
c. City Identification Standards. All City identification shall be internally illuminated or halo-lit with an individual letter design. No cabinet signs or exposed raceways are permitted.
3. Static (Standard) Billboard Reduction.
a. Removal Ratio. Proposals to establish new digital billboards or convert existing billboards must include the removal of at least three billboard structures or four sign faces, whichever is greater.
b. In-Lieu Option. If a digital billboard applicant does not have sufficient existing billboard structures or sign faces, as specified in subsection B.(3)(a) of this section, the applicant may enter into a development agreement which shall set forth the terms and conditions under which the billboard installation will be allowed to operate in lieu of removal of existing billboard(s) to satisfy the removal ratio requirement. In-lieu options may include, but are not limited to, the following:
i. The payment of fees, charges, and contributions as mutually agreed;
ii. Community benefits, such as additional funding for parks, city beautification, or infrastructure; and
iii. Any such other terms that promote public health, safety, and welfare.
4. Performance Standards.
a. Messaging.
i. Static Messaging. All messaging shall be static, meaning that messaging shall not have movement, or the appearance or optical illusion of movement, of any part of the sign structure, design, or pictorial segment of the sign, including the movement or appearance of movement of any illumination or flashing or scintillating light.
ii. Emergency Information. Digital billboard operators must be capable of displaying, when appropriate, regional emergency information important to the traveling public, including, but not limited to, amber alerts, Alert Solano, or emergency management information.
b. Minimum Message Display Time. Picture display shall be static for a minimum of eight seconds.
c. Lighting.
i. Photometric Plan. All development applications for a digital freeway billboard shall include a photometric plan identifying the anticipated light pollution from the billboard, which shall be measured 250 feet away from the face of the billboard.
ii. Intensity. The intensity of each lighting element or lamp in the message center portion of the off-site advertising structure shall not impair the vision of travelers on any adjacent freeway. Illumination shall be considered vision impairing when its brilliance exceeds the values set forth in Section 21466 of the California Vehicle Code, or any successor statute or California Department of Transportation regulations.
iii. Recessed Illumination. The actual lamps/light sources shall be recessed back into the cabinet or enclosure so that no part of the lamp/light source protrudes out past the face of the display so that the angle of the light towards the display might be altered.
iv. Automatic Dimming Device. Dimming circuitry shall be incorporated in the electronic portion of the off-site advertising display automatically dimming the off-site advertising display to reduce halo effects and glare as ambient light conditions change.
v. Illumination Orientation. The off-site advertising display shall aim, focus, and shield any illumination sufficiently to prevent glare or overcast of illumination into adjacent residential development or hotel vantage points.
vi. Digital freeway billboards shall not operate at a brightness level of more than 0.3 foot-candles above ambient light, as measured using a foot-candle meter at a preset distance consistent with acceptable practices.
d. Malfunction. Digital freeway billboards shall be operated with systems and monitoring in place to either turn the display off or show a “full black” image on the display in the event of a malfunction. Examples of a malfunction include, but are not limited to:
i. Defective pixels that cover more than five percent of the screen area;
ii. Error messages; and/or
iii. Images or messaging other than the one intended by the billboard operator.
5. Compliance with State and Federal Law.
a. Compliance with the Outdoor Advertising Act. In addition to complying with the other requirements of this section, a digital freeway billboard must also comply with the requirements of the Outdoor Advertising Act, Chapter 2 in Division 3 of the California Business and Professions Code, including but not limited to restrictions on size, height, intermittent flashing lights, and proximity to freeways.
b. Caltrans Preliminary Determination. All development applications for a digital freeway billboard shall include a preliminary determination from the California Department of Transportation prior to submittal to the City of Vacaville.
6. Review.
a. Development Agreement. The operator of an off-site advertising display or billboard proposed under this section shall enter into a development agreement with the City, whereby the operator provides performance, one-time fee, and ongoing revenue provisions that allow the City to undertake projects, programs, or other activities for the benefit of the City that offset or mitigate the impacts of the proposed advertising displays.
i. Billboard Relocations. All development agreements approved under this section shall include provisions for the relocation of existing static billboards, as required under subsection B.(3)(a) of this section.
b. Conditional Use Permit. A digital freeway billboard shall not be allowed to operate without approval of a conditional use permit, pursuant to Chapter 14.09.300 of this code, Use Permits.
c. Major Design Review. The design of a proposed digital freeway billboard structure shall be subject to major design review, pursuant to Chapter 14.09.290 of this code, Design Review.
7. Decision Maker. The Planning Commission shall make recommendations to the City Council, which shall have final authority to approve, approve with modifications, or deny a proposed development agreement for digital freeway billboard.
8. Required Findings. In addition to findings for conditional use permit and design review, any digital freeway billboard shall meet the following findings:
a. The proposed off-site advertising display will not create a hazard to vehicular or pedestrian traffic, and measures have been taken to reduce potential impacts upon the existing visual character of the site and its surroundings.
b. All advertising on the off-site advertising display will conform with the Outdoor Advertising Act, the California Business and Professions Code, and all other applicable state and federal rules and regulations.
c. The development of the off-site advertising display will result in a public benefit to the City that outweighs any adverse impacts that might be caused by the advertising display.
d. The design of the proposed off-site advertising display is reflective of Vacaville’s identity and character.
(Ord. 1995, Amended, 07/23/2024; Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.110 Nonconforming Signs.
Any sign that was lawfully installed in compliance with the laws in effect at the time of installation, and which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, shall be deemed to be nonconforming.
A. Continuance. A nonconforming sign may continue in use indefinitely, subject to the provisions set forth in this section.
B. Maintenance. Reasonable and routine maintenance and repairs may be performed on signs that are nonconforming, provided there is no expansion of any nonconformity. Maintenance and repair may include structural alterations but shall not include any change that would increase nonconformity with respect to the provisions of this chapter.
C. Abandonment of Nonconforming Sign. Whenever a nonconforming sign has been abandoned, or the use of the property has been discontinued for a continuous period of 60 calendar days, the nonconforming sign shall be removed.
D. Restoration of a Damaged Sign. A nonconforming sign may be restored if it meets either of the following criteria:
1. A sign with damage that does not exceed 50 percent of the total sign area, including hardware and attachments; provided, that the repairs start within 60 calendar days of the date of damage and are diligently pursued to completion.
2. A sign that is a danger to the public or is unsafe as determined by the Building Official.
E. Relocation and Replacement of Nonconforming Static (Standard) Billboards. City Council may approve an agreement to permit the relocation or replacement of a nonconforming static (standard) billboard sign within the City limits along a freeway, subject to the provisions below:
1. Application. The applicant shall submit an application in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 14.09.030 of this code, Common Procedures. The application may include a proposal to construct a digital freeway billboard, as provided under Section 14.09.260.100.B, Digital Freeway Billboards.
2. Planning Commission Recommendation. The Planning Commission shall hold a public hearing to consider the application for a relocation/replacement application. Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission shall recommend with approval, approval with modifications, or denial of the application.
3. City Council Decision. City Council shall hold a public hearing to consider the application and Planning Commission recommendation. Following the public hearing, City Council shall approve, approve with modifications, or deny the application.
4. Required Findings. The City Council shall make the following findings to approve a relocation/replacement application.
a. The application is consistent with the goals, objectives, purposes and provisions of the Vacaville General Plan and the Vacaville Municipal Code;
b. The proposed relocation site is compatible with the uses and structures on the site and in the surrounding area;
c. The proposed relocation contributes to the reduction of visual clutter in the City by proposing a net decrease in existing billboards and promotes activities of City-wide benefit and interest;
d. The proposed billboard would not create a traffic or safety problem with regard to on-site access circulation or visibility;
e. The proposed billboard would not interfere with on-site parking or landscaping required by City ordinance or permit; and
f. The proposed billboard would not otherwise result in a threat to the general health, safety, and welfare of City residents, based on factors including but not limited to such factors as distracted driving, driver safety, light and glare, or aesthetics.
F. Nonconforming Digital Freeway Billboards. A nonconforming digital freeway billboard may continue to operate as originally approved, except as outlined below.
1. Location Restrictions. A nonconforming digital freeway billboard outside of the permitted locations identified in Table 14.09.260.B, Digital Freeway Billboard Development Regulations, may continue to operate at that location as originally approved.
2. Modification. Any proposed modification to a nonconforming digital freeway billboard shall require a new development agreement and is subject to the same standards, requirements, and review procedures outlined in Section 14.09.260.100.B, Digital Freeway Billboards.
3. Extension of Approval. The operator of a nonconforming digital freeway billboard may request an extension of their original approval subject to a new development agreement and the same standards, requirements, and review procedures outlined in Section 14.09.260.100.B, Digital Freeway Billboards.
(Ord. 1995, Amended, 07/23/2024; Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.120 Illegal Signs.
Any sign installed in violation of any ordinance or law in effect at the time of its installation or that is currently in violation of the maintenance provisions set forth in Section 14.09.260.110.B, Maintenance, is an illegal sign and is declared to be a public nuisance that shall be abated pursuant to Chapter 8.10 of this code, Abatement of Public Nuisance.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.130 Enforcement.
Signs that do not conform to the provisions of this chapter and are erected after their effective date without obtaining required permits are declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance.
A. Authority. The Director of Community Development is authorized to enforce and administer this chapter. All violations of this chapter shall be subject to enforcement remedies, penalties, and abatement as provided by Chapters 8.10, Abatement of Public Nuisance, and 14.25, Enforcement Procedures, of this code. All costs associated with removal and/or abatement shall be paid for by the sign owner.
B. Abandoned Signs. Abandoned signs shall be removed within 60 calendar days after being abandoned.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)
14.09.260.140 Severability.
If any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this chapter is held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect, impair, or invalidate any other section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this chapter which can be given effect without the invalid provision. The invalidation of the application of any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion, or provision of this chapter to a particular property or structure, or any particular properties or structures, by any court of competent jurisdiction shall not affect the application of such section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion or provision to any other property or structure not specifically included in said invalidation.
(Ord. 1972, Repealed and Replaced, 02/22/2022)