HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrd 2003-2924ORDINANCE NO. 2924
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
CHULA VISTA AMENDING CHAPTER 19.60 AND VARIOUS
OTHER SECTIONS OF THE CHULA VISTA MUNICIPAL
CODE REGULATING SIGNS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
WITHIN THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
WHEREAS, as part of the 2002 work program for the Depa~hnent of Building and
Planning, staff began evaluating the Zoning Code in anticipation of a comprehensive Zoning
Code update; and
WHEREAS, during the Zoning Code evaluation it was determined that certain provisions
of the Sign Ordinance required immediate attention to address current processing concerns and
to ensure consistency with federal and state law; and
WHEREAS, to assist in staff's analysis, the City entered into a contract with Randal
Morrison, a local attorney nationally recognized as an expert in sign law, to draft changes that
clarify certain basic requirements of the sign code; and
WHEREAS, on July 8, 2003, the City Council considered and adopted an urgency
ordinance that modified various portions of Title 19 of the CVMC relating to sign regulations to
consolidate the definitions and regulations, clarify the intent and purpose of the sign regulations
and modify the language appropriately; and
WHEREAS, as part of their July 8, 2003, action on the urgency ordinance, the City
Council directed staff to prepare a regular ordinance that would be heard by the Planning
Commission and presented to the City Council for consideration on August 19, 2003; and
WHEREAS, on August 13, 2003, the Planning Commission did hold a duly noticed
public hearing to consider the proposed ordinance and recommended City Council adoption by a
vote of 6-0-1-0.
WHEREAS, the City Council considered and adopted an extension of the urgency
ordinance on August 19, 2003; and
WHEREAS, the Environmental Review Coordinator has reviewed the proposed activity
for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and has determined that
the activity is not a "Project" as defined under Section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines;
therefore, pursuant to Section 15060(c)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines the activity is not
subject to CEQA. Thus, no environmental review is necessary; and
WHEREAS, a duly called and noticed public hearing was held before the City Council of
the City of Chula Vista on August 19, 2003, to consider the ordinance and to hear public
testimony with regard to same.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Chula Vista does hereby ordain:
SECTION I. The current Chapter 19.60 of the Chula Vista Municipal Code is hereby repealed
in its entirety.
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SECTION H. A new Chapter 19.60 of the Chula Vista Municipal Code is hereby added to read
as follows:
Chapter 19.60
SIGNS
Sections:
19.60.005
19.60.010
19.60.020
19.60.030
19.60.040
19.60.050
19.60.060
19.60.100
19.60.110
19.60.120
19.60.200
19.60.210
19.60.220
19.60.300
19.60.400
19.60.410
19.60.430
19.60.450
19.60.500
19.60.510
19.60.520
19.60.530
19.60.540
19.60.550
19.60.560.
19.60.570.
19.60.580
19.60.590
19.60.595
19.60.600
19.60.700
19.60.800
19.60.810
19.60.900
19.60.930
Title.
Purpose.
Balancing.
Intent.
Scope.
Standard Provisions.
Definitions.
Sign Area.
Sign Height.
Sign Illumination.
Support Requirements.
Materials.
Construction standards.
Prohibited Signs.
Sensitive zones - basic signage allowance.
R-3 zones.
MHP zones.
P-C zones.
Sign rules - all commercial zones.
Commercial - Administrative and Professional Office (C-O) zone.
Central Business (C-B) zone.
Neighborhood Commercial (C-N) zone.
Central Commercial (CC) zone.
Visitor Commercial (C-V) zone.
Commercial Thoroughfare (C-T) zone.
Industrial Research (I-R) zone.
Limited Industrial (I-L) zone.
General Industrial (I) zone.
Other zones.
Specialty signs.
Signs permits.
Permit applications.
Processing of applications.
Removal of certain signs.
Amortization of nonconforming onsite signs.
19.60.005 Title.
This chapter shall be known as the Sign Ordinance.
19.60.010 Purpose.
Among the purposes and interests to be served by this chapter are the following:
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A. To serve, protect and enhance the public health, safety and welfare of the City and
the people who live in, work, or visit it;
B. To promote and accomplish the goals, policies and strategies of the general plan;
C. To balance the public interests in community aesthetics against the signage needs
of establishments and persons who wish to express information or a message by
displaying a sign;
D. To promote the free flow of traffic and protect motorists, cyclists and pedestrians
from injury and property damage which could be caused, in whole or in part, by cluttered,
distracting, confusing, or illegible signage;
E. To prevent personal injury and property damage from signs which are improperly
placed or constructed, or poorly maintained;
F. To prevent the depreciation of property values which could be caused by
inappropriate signage;
G. To protect, preserve and enhance property values, the local economy, and the
quality of life by governing the appearance of the streetscapes that affect the image of the
City;
H. To prevent interference with or obstruction of the proper conduct of legitimate
establishments in the City which result from the erection and placement of poorly
designed signs which are unsightly, improperly located, disproportionate and
disharmonious with adjacent signs or structures and therefore tend to be both
economically and aesthetically undesirable;
I. To authorize and direct the zoning administrator to enhance the aesthetic
appearance of the City and to promote the economic well being of the community;
J. To promote the use of signs which positively contribute to the aesthetics of the
community, are appropriate in scale to the surrounding buildings and landscape, and to
advance the City's goals of quality development;
K. To provide standards regarding the non-communicative aspects of signs, which
are consistent with applicable provisions of City, County, State and Federal law.
19.60.020 Balancing.
This chapter states the policy decisions regarding display of signs, made by the City
Council after carefully balancing many competing factors and interests. This chapter
consolidates all general provisions relating to the installation, regulation and amortization of
signs on private property throughout the City of Chula Vista.
19.60.030 Intent.
In adopting and enforcing this chapter, the City intends to:
A. Provide flexibility and encourage variety in signage, and create an incentive to
relate signage to the basic principles of good design;
B. Assure that the benefits derived from the expenditure of public funds for the
improvement and beautification of streets, sidewalks, public parks, public rights-of-way,
and other public places and spaces, are protected by exercising reasonable controls over
the physical characteristics and structural design of signs;
C. Improve the visual environment for the citizens and residents of, and visitors to
the City;
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D. Protect prominent viewsheds within the community;
E. Provide recovery mechanisms for the costs of administering this chapter.
19.60.040 Scope.
This chapter regulates signs, as defined in this chapter, which are placed on private
property or on property owned by public agencies other than the City of Chula Vista and over
which the City has zoning authority.
19.60.050 Standard Provisions.
The policies, roles and regulations stated in this section apply to all signs within the
regulatory scope of this chapter, and to all provisions of this chapter, notwithstanding any more
specific provisions to the contrary.
A. Message neutrality. It is the City's policy to regulate signs in a constitutional
manner, which is content neutral as to noncommercial signs and viewpoint neutral as to
commemial signs.
B. Regulatory interpretations. All regulatory interpretations of this chapter are to be
exercised in light of the City's message neutrality policy. Where a particular type of sign
is proposed in a permit application, and the type is neither expressly allowed nor
prohibited by this chapter, or whenever a sign does not qualify as a "structure" as defined
in the California Building Code, then the Director shall approve, conditionally approve or
disapprove the application based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated
by this chapter.
C. Substitution of messages. Subject to the land owner's consent, a noncommercial
message of any type may be substituted for any duly permitted or allowed commercial
message or any duly permitted or allowed noncommercial message, provided that the
sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content.
Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting.
This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this
chapter. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of
commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular
noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message. This provision does
not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, nor does it affect the
requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted.
D. Rules for non-communicative aspects of signs. All roles and regulations
concerning the non-communicative aspects of signs, such as location, size, height,
illumination, spacing, orientation, etc., stand enforceable independently of any permit or
approval process.
E. Billboard policy. The City completely prohibits the construction, erection or use
of any billboards, other than those which legally exist in the City, or for which a valid
permit has been issued and has not expired, as of the date on which this provision is first
adopted. The City adopts this policy pursuant to California Government Code section
65850, California Business and Professions Code sections 5354(a) and 5408.3 (both
effective January 1, 2003). No permit shall be issued for any billboard which violates
this policy, and the City will take immediate abatement action against any billboard
constructed or maintained in violation of this policy. The City Council affirmatively
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declares that it would have adopted this billboard policy even if it were the only provision
in this chapter. The City Council intends for this billboard policy to be severable and
separately enforceable even if other provision(s) of this chapter may be declared, by a
court of competent jurisdiction, to be unconstitutional, invalid or unenforceable. This
provision does not prohibit agreements to relocate presently existing, legal billboards, as
encouraged by California Business and Professions Code section 5412.
F. Multiple use zones. In any zone where both residential and non residential uses
are allowed, the signage rights and responsibilities applicable to any particular use shall
be determined as follows: residential uses shall be treated as if they were located in the
residential use where that type of use would be allowed as a matter of right, and
nonresidential uses shall be treated as ff they were located in a zone where that particular
use would be allowed, either as a matter of fight or subject to a conditional use permit or
similar discretionary process.
G. Severance. If any section, sentence, clause, phrase, word, portion or provision of
this chapter is held invalid or, unconstitutional, or unenforceable, by any court of
competent jurisdiction, such holding 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 portion. In adopting this chapter, the City Council
affirmatively declares that it would have approved and adopted the chapter even without
any portion which may be held invalid or unenforceable.
H. Land owners' consent. No sign may be displayed without the consent of the legal
owner of the property on which the sign is mounted or displayed. For purposes of this
policy, "owner" means the holder of the legal title to the property and all parties and
persons holding a present right to possession, control or use of the property.
I. Legal nature of signage rights and duties. As to all signs attached to property, real
or personal, the signage rights, duties and obligations arising from this chapter attach to
and travel with the land or other property on which a sign is mounted or displayed. This
provision does not modify or affect the law of f~xtures, sign-related provisions in private
leases regarding signs (so long as they are not in conflict with this chapter), or the
ownership of sign structures.
J. Sign programs. Sign programs, voluntarily proposed for specific developments,
as well as special sign districts or special sign overlay zone, when approved by the
Planning Commission or the City Council may modify the roles stated herein as to sign
size, height, illumination, spacing, orientation or other non-communicative aspects of
signs, but may not override or modify any of these standard provisions. All the
provisions of this section shall automatically apply to and be deemed a part of any sign
program approved after the date on which this provision is initially adopted.
19.60.060 Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following words have the meanings given in this section.
These definitions also apply to sign-related provisions of other chapters, unless a different
definition is given for that chapter. In the case of an approved sign program, any definitions
given therein shall apply within that sign program, unless such definition leads to a violation of
any of the "Standard Provisions" stated in CVMC § 19.60.050; for terms used in a sign program
but not defined therein, these definitions also apply.
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"Abandoned sign" means any sign remaining in place or not maintained for a period of 90 days
which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing establishment, product, or service available
on the premise where the display is located.
"Accessory use," in the context of this chapter, means a sign which is an accessory to, and
deafly incidental to, the principal use on the same or adjoining parcel, lot, or property. In the
context of commercial messages on signs, it means an onsite sign.
"Air activated signs" means those signs which are inflated or inflatable, as well as those which
are activated by wind or forced air or gas.
"Area" when used in reference to the size of a sign, means the area of the sign face or display,
expressed in square feet.
"Animated sign" means any sign which is designed and constructed to call attention, or to give
its message, through a sequence of progressive changes in lighting, or of parts, including
flashing, rotating or revolving signs.
"Approved sign" means a sign for which a sign permit application has been received in
accordance with CVMC § 19.60.700 and approved by the City.
"Auxiliary sign" means any sign whose primary function is to direct, inform, instruct or warn by
stating objective facts about which there can be no meaningful debate. Examples: accessible
parking, all deliveries in back, hours of operation, danger high voltage, etc.
"Background ama" means an area in one continuous plane, and not interrupted by architectural
features, lines or colors, upon which a signs copy is applied.
"Banner" means a strip of cloth, fabric, non-rigid paper, plastic or similar flexible material, on
which is displayed sign copy. Banners are typically hung or suspended from fences, walls, or
posts or poles.
"Billboard" means a permanent structure sign, located on private property, on which is displayed
offsite commemial messages, as well as any permanent structure which is a principal use (as
opposed to an accessory use) of the property on which it is built, on which messages are
displayed. A billboard may be freestanding or attached to other structures.
"Building frontage" means the total width of the elevation of a building that fronts on a private
or public right-of-way or the building elevation along which the main entrance exits. For the
purposes of calculating permitted sign area, every building has only one building frontage. For
comer buildings or through lots the larger width shall be used in calculating permitted sign area.
If more than one establishment or occupancy is located in a single building, then such area shall
be limited to that portion which is occupied by each individual establishment or occupancy.
"Canopy sign" means visual display attached to the underside of a projecting canopy or marquee
protruding over public or private sidewalks or rights-of-way.
"Changeable copy sign" means a sign or portion thereof with characters, letters or illustrations
that can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or surface of the sign.
"Commercial zone" means one of the following types of zones: C-O, C-B, C-N, C-C, C-V, C-T,
I-R, I-L, or I.
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"Commercial mascot" means humans or animals used as advertising devices for commercial
establishments, typically by the holding or wearing of insignia, masks or costumes associated
with the commercial establishment. Includes sign twirlers, sign downs, etc.
"Commercial sign" means any sign, wording, logo, picture, transparency, mechanical device or
other representation that is intended to attract attention to a commercial or industrial business,
occupancy, product, good, service or other commercial or industrial activity for a commercial or
industrial purpose.
"Construction sign" means a sign erected and maintained within a construction project, typically
used to identify those individuals or businesses directly connected with the construction project
and information regarding direction, price or terms.
"Development sign" means a freestanding sign listing the architect, landscape architect,
engineer, planner, contractor, or other person or firm participating in the development,
construction or financing of the project on the site on which the sign is located.
"Directional sign" means a sign located adjacent to a driveway or mounted on a building
designed to guide or direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic to uses on the same site.
"Director" means the City of Chula Vista Director of Planning and Building or such director's
designee.
"Directory sign" means a sign listing the name and location of the tenants, departments or
establishments of a building or shopping complex.
"Electronic message board sign" means a sign with a fixed or changing display composed of a
series of lights, light emitting diodes (LED) or liquid crystal display (LCD) or functionally
similar devices.
"Establishment" means a legal, nonresidential use of land to conduct a commercial or
noncommercial activity. By way of example and not limitation, "establishment" includes stores,
offices, churches, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, etc. Does not include home based
occupations or hobbies.
"Erect" (verb) means to build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend or affix to or upon any
surface.
"Expired sign" means a sign whose message refers to an event or a particular date, and such date
or event is more than ten days in the past.
"Flag" means a piece of cloth or bunting varying in size, color and design, used as a symbol,
standard, signal or emblem.
"Flashing sign" means any sign that is designed and constructed to call attention, or to give its
message, through a sequence of changes in color or intensity of illumination.
"Freestanding sign" means a sign, including a billboard or pole sign, which is self-supporting in
a fixed location and not attached to a building.
"Frontage" shall be considered that side of a lot or property fronting on a public right-of-way or
other circulation area open to the general public such as a dedicated street, exclusive of alleys.
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"General advertising" means the business of ranting or otherwise providing display space to
commercial advertisers located other than the place where the advertising will be displayed.
"Governmental signs" means those signs by which a governmental entity provides notice to the
public. Such signs typically indicate traffic rules, directions and distances, and notices of public
hearings, etc.
"Ground or monument sign" means a low-profile freestanding sign erected with its base on the
gmund.
"Hand held sign" means a sign that is held by or otherwise mounted on a person or animal.
"Identification sign" means a sign which serves to identify the name, address and lawful use of
the premises upon which the sign is located. Includes signs indicating the name of residents on
residential uses.
"Illegal sign" means: (a) any sign originally erected or installed without first complying with all
structural, locational, design, building, and electrical regulations in effect at the time of its
construction or installation; (b) any sign that is not maintained, or is not used to identify or
advertise an ongoing establishment, occupancy, product, good or service available on the site of
the sign for more than ninety (90) days; (c) any unsafe sign; (d) any legal nonconforming sign
that has not been removed following the expiration of the 15-year amortization period provided
for in this chapter; and (e) any sign that is in violation of the provisions of this chapter.
"Informational sign" means any sign displayed on private property, the purpose of which is to
state a fact or attribute of that property which is of interest to the general public, such as the
location of the restroom, the hours of operation, a security protection notice and similar facts,
and which sign does not exceed an area of two (2) square feet.
"Legal nonconforming sign" means a sign that was originally erected or installed in compliance
with all structural, locational, design, building, and electrical regulations at the time of its
erection or installation, but which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter.
"Land owner's consent" means the consent or permission of the owner of land for the display of
a sign thereon. For purposes of this definition, land owner means the holder of the legal title to
the property and all parties and persons holding a present right to possession, control or use of
the property. In the case of personal property to which a sign is attached, the land owner's
consent means the permission of the owner of such personal property.
"Legally required signs" means those signs which are required to be placed or displayed, by a
body of law other than this chapter. By way of example only, such signs typically include
notices of eviction or condemnation, notice of change of ownership, etc.
"Logo" means a trademark or symbol identifying the establishment, commercial or industrial
service provided on the site. Logos shall be considered signs for the purposes of this chapter.
"Marquee sign" means any permanent architectural canopy projecting over the entrance to an
establishment, and any signage or message display thereon.
"Monument or ground sign" means a low-profile freestanding sign erected with its base on the
ground.
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"Multisided sign" means signs constructed back-to-back, with faces in approximately parallel
planes (such as on both sides of a single panel or V shape, provided the angle between the two
faces does not exceed 45 degrees), which shall count as only one sign, both as to number and
area, i.e., only one side need be counted. Every other sign having multiple sides or faces,
including a sign constructed in the form of a cylinder or sphere or similar figure, shall be limited
in total area as provided herein.
"Noncommercial speech" or "noncommercial message" or "noncommercial sign" means a sign
message which is not commercial in nature. Such messages typically relate to debatable matters
of public concern, such as, by way of example and not limitation, advocacy on politics, religion,
arts, science, philosophy, commentary on governmental policy, etc.
"Multiple establishment sign" means a sign upon which more than one establishment is
displayed.
"Noncommercial sign" means a sign which does not name, advertise or call attention to a
commemial or industrial establishment, commodity, product, good, service or other commercial
or industrial activity for a commercial or industrial purpose.
"Off-site sign" means a commercial sign not located on the site of the establishmem or entity
indicated or advertised by the sign, or a commercial sign advertising a commodity, good,
product, service or other commercial or industrial activity which originates on a site other than
where the sign is maintained. The onsite/offsite distinction applies only to commercial message
signs.
"On-site sign" means any commercial sign which directs attention to a commercial or industrial
occupancy, establishment, commodity, good, product, service or other commercial or industrial
activity conducted, sold or offered upon the site where the sign is maintained. The onsite/offsite
distinction applies only to commercial message signs. For purposes of this chapter, all signs
with noncommercial speech messages shall be deemed to be "on-site," regardless of location.
"Permanent sign" means any sign which is intended to be and is so constructed as to be of lasting
and enduring condition, remaining unchanged in character, condition (beyond normal wear and
tear) and position and in a permanent manner affixed to the ground, wall or building.
"Principal identification sign" means an establishment sign used to identify only the name of the
establishment and the principal product or service.
"Principal use" in the context of this chapter means that a sign is a principal, as opposed to an
accessory, use on the parcel or lot where it is located, or proposed to be located.
"Pole sign" means a sign which is supported by one or more columns, uprights or braces in or
upon the ground.
"Portable sign" means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or another permanent
structure, or a sign capable of being transported, including, but not limited to, signs designed to
be transported by means of wheels, signs converted to A or T-frames, menu and sandwich board
signs.
"Professional sign" means a sign indicating the name or names and occupation or occupations of
a professional person or group of associated professional persons occupying the premises.
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"Projecting sign" means a sign that is mounted on and at an angle to the face of the wall of the
building to which it is attached.
"Real estate sign" means a sign indicating that real property is available for sale, exchange, rent
or lease. Such signs typically state that real property, or any interest therein, is for sale or
exchange, or for lease or rent for a period longer than one week, and the names and contact
information for persons involved in such economic transaction.
"Rear wall sign" means a wall sign placed on a building wall that is parallel to the front wall of a
building, but located on the opposite, furthest end of the building.
"Roof line" means the upper edge of any building wall or parapet, or ridge line. If a building has
both a parapet and a ridge line, the lower of the two will be considered the "roof line".
"Roof sign" is a sign upon, on or above the roof line of a roof or parapet of any building or
structure.
"Safety codes" means those codes which have been duly adopted by the City, and which are
currently in effect, which regulate matters of safe development and construction, such as, by way
of example and not limitation, grading, mechanical, building, electrical and plumbing codes.
"Sensitive zones" means agricultural, residential estate, R-I, R-2, R-3 and MHP zones.
"Search Lights" means focused light producers designed to project a moving beam of light into
the night sky for the purpose of attracting attention to an event or location. Search Lights are
considered signs.
"Side wall sign" means a wall sign placed on a building wall that is generally perpendicular to
the front wall of a building.
"Sign" is any device, fixture, placard or structure, including its component parts, which draws
attention to an object, product, place, activity, opinion, person, institution, organization, or place
of business, or which identifies or promotes the interests of any person and which is to be viewed
from any public street, road, highway, right-of-way or parking area. However, the following are
not within the definition of a "sign" for regulatory purposes of this chapter:
Public property and public use property: Signs placed on land or other property
owned by the City, or in which the City holds the present fight of possession or
control, or land which the City holds in trust, as well as all public rights-of-way.
Said signs shall be regulated by an adopted City Council policy;
Architectural features: Decorative or architectural features of buildings (not
including lettering, trademarks or moving pans);
Symbols embedded in architecture: Symbols of noncommercial organizations or
concepts including, but not limited to, religious or political symbols, when such
are permanently integrated into the structure of a permanent building which is
otherwise legal;
Personal appearance: Items or devices of personal apparel, decoration or
appearance, including tattoos, makeup, costumes (but not including commercial
mascots);
Manufacturers' marks: Marks on tangible products, which identify the maker,
seller, provider or product, and which customarily remain attached to the product
even after sale;
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Fireworks, etc.: the legal use of fireworks, candles and artificial lighting not
otherwise regulated by this chapter;
Certain insignia on vehicles and vessels: On stxeet legal vehicles and properly
licensed watercraft: license plates, license plate frames, registration insignia,
noncommercial messages,
Grave stones or grave markers.
Newsracks and newsstands.
"Site" means the location of a sign. In the case of legal parcels containing only one legal use,
that parcel is the site. For parcels containing more than one legal use, the site is the portion of
the parcel on which each use is located.
"Street address sign" means a wall sign placed on the side of the building parallel to the front
property line or main entrance, or parallel to the public right-of-way solely for the purpose of
providing the street address for the site.
"Temporary sign" is any sign constructed of doth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard, or
other light materials, with or without frames, intended to be displayed for a limited period of
time not to exceed sixty (60) days.
"Unsafe sign" means a sign posing an immediate peril or reasonably foreseeable threat of injury
or damage to persons or property on account of the condition of the physical structure of the sign
or its mounting mechanism.
"Wall sign" is a sign, including a painted sign, attached to, painted on, or erected against the wall
of a building or structure, with the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the plane of
such wall.
"Window sign" means a sign that is painted on either the outside or inside surface of the glazed
area (including glazed doors), and any sign that is posted or affixed to the inside surface of the
glazed area, or is located in such a manner as to be visible through the glazed area.
19.60.100 Sign area.
The area of a sign is calculated as follows:
A. Background panel signs. Sign copy which is mounted, affixed, or painted on a
background panel or area distinctively painted, textured or constructed as a background
for the sign copy, is measured as that area contained within the sum of the smallest
rectangles, squares, triangles, parallelogram, circles or ellipses that will enclose both the
sign copy and the background.
B. Background surface signs. The area of a sign consisting of copy mounted as
individual letters or graphics against a wall, fascia, mansard, or parapet of a building
surface or another surface, that has not been painted, textured, or otherwise altered to
provide a distinctive background for the sign copy, is measured as the sum of the smallest
rectangles, squares, triangles, parallelograms, circles or ellipses that will enclose each
word, graphic or discrete visual element in the total sign.
C. Illuminated background signs. The area of a sign with copy mounted, affixed, or
painted on an illuminated surface or illuminated element or a building or structure, is
measured as the entire illuminated surface or illuminated element which contains sign
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copy. Such elements may include, but are not limited to lit canopy fascia signs, spanner
board signs, and/or interior lit awnings.
D. Two faced signs. If a sign has two display faces, and the interior angle between
the two faces is forty-five degrees or less, then the sign area is one sign face only;
however, if the two faces are of different sizes or shapes, then the larger is used. If the
sign has two display faces, and the interior angle between the two faces is greater than
forty-five degrees, then the sign area is the sum of the areas of the two faces.
E. Multi-faced signs. If a sign has three or more faces, then the sign ama is the 50%
of the aggregate area of all sign faces. The area of each face shall be determined
according to subsection A. or B. above, as applicable.
F. Statuary and Non-planar signs. The area of a spherical, free form, sculptural or
other non-planar sign is fifty percent of the sum of the areas, using only the four vertical
sides of the smallest four-sided polyhedron which will completely enclose the entire sign
structure.
19.60.110 Sign height.
Sign height is the vertical distance from the average grade of the ground immediately
below the uppermost point of a sign, as measured to points five feet in all directions from said
point, to the topmost portion of the sign. The base or structure erected to support or adorn a
monument, pole or other freestanding sign is measured as part of the sign height.
19.60.120 Sign illumination.
A. Residential signs. Signs on residential uses in any zone may not be separately or
specially illuminated, unless otherwise specified.
B. General role for all non-residential uses. Other than signs on residential uses, all
other signs may be non-illuminated, or illuminated by internal, internal indirect (halo)
illumination, or lit by external indirect illumination, unless otherwise specified. Signs
may not be illuminated in a manner which leaves the illumination device exposed to
public view except with the use of neon tubing as provided in subsection E. below.
C. Internal illumination. Outdoor, internally illuminated signs, including but not
limited to awning/canopy signs, cabinet signs (whether freestanding or building
mounted), changeable copy panels or service island signs, shall be constructed with an
opaque background and translucent letters or other graphical elements, or with a colored
background and lighter letters or graphics.
D. External indirect illumination. Externally lit signs are permitted to be illuminated
only with steady, stationary, down directed and shielded light sources directed solely onto
the sign. Light bulbs or tubes (excluding neon), used for illuminating a sign, shall not be
visible from the adjacent public rights of way or residential properties.
E. Neon.
1. Exposed neon. Exposed neon tube illumination is not permitted in
residential zones, or on residential uses in any zone. It is allowed in all other
places, unless otherwise specified.
Ordinance 2924
Page 13
2. Neon borders. Neon illumination used as a sign copy projection, border,
frame or other embellishment of sign copy shall not be included in the total size
or area of the sign, provided the measured area of any such projection or detailed
embellishment does not exceed twelve square feet in area, or twenty-five percent
of the sign display faco area, whichever is greater. If neon embellishments exceed
these limits, then the embellishments shall be included and counted as part of the
permitted sign area for the use.
19.60.200 Support requirements.
The supporting members of all signs shall be free of any extemal bracing such as guy
wires or cables. All supporting columns shall be designed as an integral or architectural feature
of the building.
19.60.210 Materials.
Paper or cardboard signs and cloth or plastic fabric banners may only be used in
conjunction with a special event or temporary outside sale and display as provided in Chapter
19.58 ("Uses"); however, paper or cardboard signs may be used for indoor window and
windshield signs, when such are allowed.
19.60.220 Construction standards.
All signs shall be installed and constructed in a professional and workmanlike manner
and shall be maintained in good and safe structural condition and good physical appearance. All
exposed structural components shall be painted, coated or made of rust inhibitive material.
19.60300 Prohibited signs.
Unless otherwise provided, the following sign types are prohibited throughout the City.
A. Flashing. Signs which use intermittent illumination, intermittent reflection
(whether from the sun or an artificial source) flashing images, scintillation or lights of
varying intensity, including electronic message board signs, but not including barber
poles;
B. Moving. Signs which have any visible portion in motion, either constantly or at
intervals, which motion may be caused by either artificial or natural sources;
C. Air activated. Signs which are activated by wind or moving air, including but not
limited to whirligigs;
D. Lighter than air. Tethered blimps, tethered dirigibles, and tethered balloons used
to display commercial messages or general advertising; however, certain balloons may be
allowable in conjunction with special events, as regulated by CVMC § 19.58.370 and §
19.58.380;
E. Visibility blocking. No sign shall be erected at the intersection of any streets in
such a manner as to create a traffic hazard by obstructing vision; or at any location where
the sign may interfere with, obstruct the view of, or be confused with any authorized
traffic sign.
Ordinance 2924
Page 14
19.60.400 Sensitive zones - basic signage allowance.
In agricultural, residential estates, R-i, R-2, R-3 and MHP zones ("sensitive zones'), the
signage described in this section is allowed, subject to permit requirements. Additional
signage may be allowed, as described in the separate regulations for each particular zone,
or particular uses therein.
A. Basic signage allowance. For each legal parcel in any of the sensitive zones,
either one wall sign or one free standing sign is allowed. The area shall not exceed one
and one half square feet. For a freestanding sign the height shall not exceed six feet, and
the sign shall be set back from the property line or curbline (whichever is closer to the
interior of the parcel) by a minimum of ten feet. In the residential estates, R-1 and R-2
zones, such signs shall not display commercial messages.
B. Public and quasi-public uses within sensitive zones. In addition to the basic
signage allowance, parcels on which are located legally operating public and quasi public
uses, including but not limited to religious uses (churches, chapels, synagogues, mosques,
etc.), emergency services (fire, police, hospital, etc.) and educational uses (schools, day
care centers, etc.) the following signage is allowed:
One permanent wall sign, the area of which shall not exceed 30 square
feet. The wall sign may be illuminated.
One changeable copy sign, the area of which shall not exceed 50 square
feet and 12 feet in height. If such sign is free standing, then it shall be set
back at least ten feet from all streets.
C. Public and quasi-public special event signs. Any public or quasi-public
establishment in a sensitive zone may display temporary promotional signs in
conjunction with a special event. Said signs may consist of A and I frame signs and signs
on paper, cardboard, plastic or fabric.
The signs shall:
a. Be located on the premises of the establishment having the special
event;
b. Not create a traffic hazard because of the distractive character to
motorists of any sign or the cumulative effect of all the signs on the lot;
c. Not unreasonably obscure existing signs or adjacent properties;
d. Not interfere with internal circulation or eliminate required parking.
Only one freestanding sign shall be allowed on each street frontage. The
freestanding sign shall not be more than eight feet in height or contain
more than forty square feet of sign area.
Not more than six permits allowing special event signage shall be issued
to an establishment in any one calendar year.
The maximum time limit for displaying special event signs for any one
special event shall not exceed 14 consecutive days.
Pennants may be used only for safety and precautionary purposes.
The applicant shall submit a statement describing the commencement and
ending date of the special event. The applicant shall also submit a site
plan indicating the location and area of signs. Each permit shall also be
accompanied by the required filing fee(s).
19.60.410 R-3 zones.
Ordinance 2924
Page 15
In addition to the basic signage allowance in sensitive zones, the following rules apply to
signs in the R-3 zone:
A. Wall sign. One wall sign for each street frontage, a maximum of 15 square feet of
sign area for buildings with a width of 30 feet or less. Buildings over 30 feet in width
shall be allowed an additional one square foot for each foot over 30 feet to a maximum of
30 square feet. In cases of more than one building on the property, the area of the sign
shall be based on the lineal frontage of the building on which it is placed. Only the name
and address may be placed on the building;
B. Freestanding sign. One freestanding sign may be used in lieu of one wall sign.
Through lots will be allowed an additional freestanding sign if the frontage is used for
access. Commercial messages on the sign may consist only of the name and address of
the manager, except the vacancy status and location of the Manager's office may be
placed on the sign, if designed as part of the sign. Maximum height, five feet. Maximum
sign area, 12 square feet, except an additional two square feet may be added for the
vacancy status;
C. Manager's sign. A sign designating the location of the Manager's office may be
placed on or near the main entrance to the units. Maximum size: one and one half square
feet. Such sign may be attached to the dwelling or incorporated in the design of the
freestanding sign. Maximum square footage of the freestanding sign shall not be
increased to accommodate said sign;
D. Vacancy sign. A separate freestanding vacancy sign, a maximum of three and
one-half feet in height and two square feet in area, may be used if no other freestanding
sign exists on the property; otherwise, it shall be placed on the building;
E. Screening wall sign. One sign may be placed on a structure used for screening of
parking in lieu of a wall or freestanding sign. Only the name and address may be placed
on the structure. Maximum area, 15 square feet.
19.60.430 MHP zones.
In addition to the basic signage allowance in sensitive zones, the following rules apply to
signs in the MHP zone:
A. Wall or Freestanding sign. One wall sign or single- or double-faced freestanding
sign, designating the use of the premises, facing or adjacent to each street abutting the
property. The height of a freestanding sign shall not exceed eight feet. The total face
area of all wall and freestanding signs, excluding directional signs, shall not exceed
one-tenth square foot for each linear foot of street frontage, and no sign shall exceed a
maximum area of 32 square feet.
B. Directional sign. One directional sign, not to exceed 10 square feet in area, may
be placed at each entrance or exit driveway. No such sign shall exceed a height of eight
feet measured vertically from the base at ground level to the apex of the sign. Directional
signs may be lighted.
19.60.450 P-C zones.
Ordinance 2924
Page 16
The Planning Commission and City Council may establish sign standards and provisions
for a P-C (Planned Community) zone concurrently with the approval of a general development
plan or sectional planning area. However, such standards must comply with and incorporate all
of the standard provisions of this Chapter, CVMC § 19.60.050.
19.60.500 Sign rules - all commercial zones.
A. Window signs. When allowed, window signs may cover a maximum of twenty
percent of the window area in all commercial and industrial zones. Other than painted
window signs, no sign shall be permitted to be located on the outside surface of the
glazed area.
B. Canopy signs (soffits). One onsite canopy sign or soffit is permitted for each
establishment in a commercial zone. Minimum clearance for signs attached under the
marquee is seven feet. The maximum size of a canopy sign is one foot wide by five feet
long. The sign may not project beyond marquee. Larger canopy signs facing a dedicated
street or interior parking area may be used in lieu of wall signs, provided the signs do not
exceed the maximum area permitted in the underlying zone for wall signs.
C. Temporary promotional signs. Temporary promotional signs in conjunction with
"special events" as defined and regulated by CVMC § 19.58.370 and § 19.58.380 are
allowed for any non-residential use in a commercial zone. Commercial messages on such
signs will pertain to grand openings, change of business address, change of ownership or
lessee, business anniversaries and similar promotional events. Said signs may consist of
A and I frame signs and signs on paper, cardboard, plastic or fabric. The signs shall be
located on the premises of the business having the special event. The number and
location of the signs shall not create a traffic hazard because of the distractive character
to motorists of any sign or the cumulative effect of all the signs on the lot, nor shall any
sign unreasonably obscure existing signs or adjacent properties. Only one freestanding
sign shall be allowed on each street frontage; such sign shall not be more than eight feet
in height or contain more than forty square feet of sign area. Pennants may be used only
for safety and precautionary purposes. Price signs may be used but shall not exceed 12
by 16 inches. Excluding price signs, the total area of all promotional signage shall not
exceed two square feet of lineal street frontage of the sales area.
D. Other signs. The following signs are allowed in all commercial zones: Window;
temporary promotional, public and quasi-public; directional; warning; instructional;
directory; real estate; signs allowed pursuant to the unclassified use approval process;
signs on mansard roofs; signs on pitched roofs; and signs on architectural appendages.
Service station price signs are allowed anywhere that motor fuels may be legally sold or
dispensed to the public. Drive-in theater marquees may be allowed only when onsite to a
legal use of drive in theater. Theater marquees are allowed only onsite to legally use as a
theater.
19.60.510 Commercial - Administrative and Professional Office (C-O) zone.
The following signs are allowed in C-O zones:
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign area
of 20 square feet for each portion of the building facing a dedicated street or alley.
Establishments facing a major or collector street shall be allowed an additional one
Ordinance 2924
Page 17
square foot for each two feet of lineal building frontage over 20 feet facing said street,
but shall not exceed a total of 50 square feet.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five or more cars and walkways, a minimum of 10 feet in width. The signs shall be
allowed one-half square foot per lineal foot of building facing said area; maximum area,
20 square feet per establishment;
B. Freestanding (pole): Each lot shall be allowed a freestanding sign with a
maximum sign area of three square feet; however, if more than one establishment is
located on the lot or is located in a building designed for occupancy by more than one
establishment, the area of the sign may be increased an additional three square feet for
each establishment displayed on the sign to a maximum area of 12 square feet and four
tenant establishment signs. The sign shall not exceed eight feet in height. An
establishment or business complex located on a major or collector street shall be allowed
a freestanding pole sign subject to the following:
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Maximum height, 16 feet;
Maximum sign area, 32 square feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign shall not be permitted to project into the public right-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 10-foot setback from all interior property lines;
Only one establishment or the name of the commercial complex may be
displayed on the sign.
C. Ground (monument): A low-proffie ground sign may be used in place of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
IL
2.
3.
4.
Maximum height, four feet. Establishments located on major or collector
streets, six feet;
Maximum sign area, 12 square feet. Establishments located on major or
collector streets, 25 square feet;
The sign shall maintain a five-foot setback from all streets and 10 feet
from all interior property lines;
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
D. Projecting: A projecting sign may be used in lieu of a freestanding (pole or
ground) sign subject to the following:
The maximum projection from the face of the building shall be based on
the clearance of the sign from the bottom of the sign to the ground as
shown in the following table:
Ground ' Maximum
Clearance Projection
I 8' or less ]1 1'0
I 9' il
I 10' il 2'0
Maximum Diagonal
Projection (corner lot)
1'0
1'8
Ordinance 2924
Page 18
11' il ............... ~..~ ................. il ...................................... 3'0
12' il 3'0 il 3'8
................ ................ ii ................. ................. Ji ................................................... ........
14' ]1 4'0 ;L. 5'0
Projecting signs less than eight feet from the ground shall not project
closer than three feet to any area used for vehicular circulation and six
inches to any area used for pedestrian circulation;
The sign shall not project above the roof, parapet or first story;
The maximum sign area for double-faced signs shall be 12 square feet and
24 square feet for spheres, cylinders, and multisided signs, not including
the top and bottom of the sign when no copy is applied to those surfaces.
E. Signs on Screening Walls or Fences: Signs denoting the names of the occupants,
principal establishment, or name of the commercial complex may be applied to a wall or
fence used as screening of parking areas in lieu of a freestanding or projecting sign.
Maximum sign area shall be three square feet; except, an establishment or complex
located on a major or collector street shall be allowed an area of 25 square feet.
F. The design review committee may reduce sign areas and height below those
authorized above based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design
manual, without consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on
the sign.
19.60.520 Central Business (C-B) zone.
The following signs am allowed in C-B zones:
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign ama
of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or alley;
however, the sign area may be increased to a maximum of three square feet per lineal
foot of building frontage; provided, the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the
background area on which the sign is applied, mounted or displayed.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five cars or more and walkways 10 feet or more in width. Such signs may contain an
area of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing said area; however, the
area may be increased to two square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; provided,
the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the background area on which the sign is applied,
mounted or displayed;
B. Ground (monument): Each lot or commercial complex shall be allowed a
low-profile ground sign, subject to the following:
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 100 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots, only one frontage shall be
counted;
Maximum height, six feet;
Maximum sign area, 25 square feet;
Ordinance 2924
Page 19
The sign shall maimain a five-foot setback from all streets and 10 feet
from all interior property lines;
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
C. Projecting: Each establishment shall be allowed a projecting sign subject to the
following:
The maximum projection from the face of the building shall be based on
the clearance of the sign from the bottom of the sign to the ground as
shown in the following table:
Ground
Clearance
8' or less
9'
10'
1'1'
12'
Maximum Maximum Diagonal
Projection Projection (corner lot)
1'0 1'0
1'6 1'8
2'0 I 2'4
2'6 I 3'0
3'0 I 3'8
3'6 II 4'4
4'0 II
Projecting signs less than eight feet from the ground shall not project
closer than three feet to any area used for vehicular circulation and six
inches to any area used for pedestrian circulation;
The sign shall not project above the roof, parapet or first story;
The maximum sign area for double-faced signs shall be 12 square feet and
24 square feet for spheres, cylinders, and multisided signs, not including
the top and bottom of the sign when no copy is applied to those surfaces.
D. Signs on Screening Walls or Fences. In lieu of a ground sign or projecting sign, a
sign may be applied to a wall or fence used for screening of parking areas. The sign shall
be subject to the following:
The sign may only denote the name of the principal establishment or the
name of the commercial complex;
Maximum sign area: 25 square feet.
E. The design review committee may reduce sign areas and heights below those
authorized above based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design
manual, without consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on
the sign.
19.60.530 Neighborhood Commercial (C-N) zone.
The following signs are allowed in C-N zones:
Ordinance 2924
Page 20
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign area
of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or alley;
however, the sign may be increased to a maximum of one and one-half square feet per
lineal foot of building frontage; provided, the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the
background area on which the sign is applied, mounted or displayed.
Each establishment shall be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for five
cars or more and walkways 10 feet in width. Such signs may contain a sign area of
one-half square foot per lineal foot of building frontage. The maximum sign area shall
not exceed 20 square feet per establishment.
B. Freestanding (pole): A freestanding pole sign shall be subject to the following:
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Each neighborhood shopping center or shopping complex consisting of
one parcel or contiguous parcels shall be allowed one freestanding pole
sign (in existing developed shopping centers a freestanding service station
sign shall be allowed to remain and will not be included in determining the
total number of signs allowed);
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 100 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots, only one frontage shall be
counted;
Maximum height, 25 feet;
Maximum sign area, 100 square feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign may project a maximum of five feet into the public right-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 10-foot setback from all interior property lines;
Freestanding pole signs less than eight feet in height are restricted to a
maximum sign area of 12 square feet and shall maintain a minimum
setback of five feet from all streets;
Commercial messages on pole signs in the C-N zone may identify only the
name of the shopping center or complex and tenants therein.
C. Ground (monument): A low-profile ground sign may be used in lieu of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
Maximum height, eight feet;
Maximum sign area, 50 square feet;
The sign shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from all streets
and 10 feet from all interior property lines;
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
D. Signs on Screening Walls or Fences. In lieu of a freestanding sign, a sign may be
applied to a wall or fence used for screening of parking areas. The sign shall be subject
to the following:
The sign may only denote the name of the principal establishment or the
name of the commercial complex;
Maximum sign area, 25 square feet.
Ordinance 2924
Page 21
E. The design review committee may reduce sign areas below those authorized
above based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design manual, without
consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
19.60.540 Central Commercial (CC) zone.
The following signs are allowed in C-C zones:
A. Wail and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign area
of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or alley;
however, the sign area may be increased to a maximum of three square feet per lineal
foot of building frontage; provided, the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the
background area on which the sign is applied, mounted or displayed.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five cars or more and walkways 10 feet or more in width. Such signs may contain an
area of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing said area; however, the
area may be increased to two square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; provided,
the sign does not exceed 50 pement of the background area on which the sign is applied,
mounted or displayed. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet;
B. Freestanding (pole): Each lot shall be allowed one freestanding sign subject to
the following:
4.
5.
6.
7.
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 100 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots or through lots, only one
frontage shall be counted;
The sign may contain one square foot of area for each lineal foot of street
frontage but shall not exceed 150 square feet. In the case of comer lots or
through lots, only the frontage the sign is oriented to shall be counted
toward the allowable sign area,
Maximum height, 35 feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign may project a maximum of five feet into the public right-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 10-foot setback from ail interior property lines;
Comer parcels containing five acres or more shall be allowed one
freestanding sign on each street frontage on a major or collector street and
shall be spaced at intervals of not less than 500 feet apart. Such signs shall
not face the side of any adjoining lot in an R district;
Commemiai messages on pole signs in the C-C zone may identify only the
name of the shopping center or complex and tenants therein.
Freestanding pole signs less than eight feet in height are restricted to a
maximum sign area of 15 square feet and shall maintain a minimum
setback of five feet from ail streets.
C. Ground (monument): A low-profile ground sign may be used in lieu of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
Maximum height, eight feet;
Maximum sign area, 50 square feet;
The sign shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from ail streets
and 10 feet from ail interior property lines;
Ordinance 2924
Page 22
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
D. Signs on Screening Walls or Fences. In lieu of a freestanding sign, a sign may be
applied to a wall or fence used for screening of parking areas. The sign shall be subject
to the following:
The sign may only denote the name of the principal business or the name
of the commercial complex;
Maximum sign area, 25 square feet.
E. The design review committee may reduce sign areas below those authorized
above based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design manual, without
consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
19.60.550 Visitor Commercial (C-V) zone.
The following signs are allowed in C-V zones:
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign ama
of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or alley;
however, the sign area may be increased to a maximum of three square feet per lineal
foot of building frontage; provided, the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the
background area on which the sign is applied.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five cars or more and walkways 10 feet or more in width. Such signs may contain an
area of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing said area; however, the
area may be increased to two square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; provided,
the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the background area on which the sign is applied,
mounted or displayed. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet;
B. Freestanding (pole): Each lot shall be allowed one freestanding sign subject to
the following:
4.
5.
6.
7.
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 100 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots or through lots, only one
frontage shall be counted;
The sign may contain one square foot of area for each lineal foot of street
frontage but shall not exceed 150 square feet. In the case of comer lots or
through lots, only the frontage the sign is oriented to shall be counted
toward the allowable sign area;
Maximum height, 35 feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign may project a maximum of five feet into the public right-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 10-foot setback from all interior property lines;
Comer parcels containing five acres or more shall be allowed one
freestanding sign on each street frontage on a major or collector street and
shall be spaced at intervals of not less than 500 feet apart. Such signs shall
not face the side of any adjoining lot in an R district;
Commercial messages on pole signs in the C-V zone may identify only the
name of the shopping center or complex and tenants therein.
Ordinance 2924
Page 23
Free.standing. pole signs less than eight feet in height are restricted to a
maximum sign area of 15 square feet and shall maintain a minimum
setback of five feet from all streets;
C. Ground (monument): A low profile ground sign may be used in lieu of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
Maximum height, eight feet;
Maximum sign area, 50 square feet;
The sign shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from all streets
and 10 feet from all interior property lines;
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
D. Signs on Screening Walls or Fences. In lieu of a freestanding sign, a sign may be
applied to a wall or fence used for screening of parking areas. The sign shall be subject
to the following:
The sign may only denote the name of the principal establishment or the
name of the commercial complex;
Maximum sign area, 25 square feet.
E. The design review committee may reduce sign areas below those authorized
based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design manual, without
consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
19.60.560 Commercial Thoroughfare (C-T) zone.
The following signs are allowed in C-T zones:
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign area
of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or alley;
however, the sign area may be increased to a maximum of three square feet per lineal
foot of building frontage; provided, the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the
background area on which the sign is applied, mounted or displayed.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five cars or more and walkways 10 feet or more in width. Such signs may contain an
area of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing said area; however, the
area may be increased to two square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; provided,
the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the background area on which the sign is applied,
mounted or displayed. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet;
B. Freestanding (pole): Each lot shall be allowed one freestanding sign subject to
the following:
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 50 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots, only one frontage shall be
counted;
The sign may contain one square foot of area for each lineal foot of street
frontage, but shall not exceed 150 square feet. In the case of comer lots or
Ordinance 2924
Page 24
o
4.
5.
6.
7.
through lots, only the frontage the sign is oriented to shall be counted
toward the allowable sign area;
Maximum height, 35 feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign may project a maximum of five feet into the public fight-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 10-foot setback from all interior property lines;
Comer parcels containing five acres or more shall be allowed one
freestanding sign on each street frontage on a major or collector street and
shall be spaced at intervals of not less than 500 feet apart. Such signs shall
not face the side of any adjoining lot in the R district;
Commercial messages on pole signs in the C-T zone may identify only the
name of the shopping center or complex and tenants therein.
Free.standing. pole signs less than eight feet in height are restricted to a
maximum s~gn area of 15 square feet and shall maintain a minimum
setback of five feet from all streets.
C. Ground (monument): A low-profile ground sign may be used in lieu of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
Maximum height, eight feet;
Maximum sign area, 50 square feet;
The sign shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from all streets
and 10 feet from all interior property lines;
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
D. Projecting: A projecting sign may be used in place of a freestanding (pole or
ground) sign subject to the following:
The maximum projection from the face of the building shall be based on
the clearance of the sign from the bottom of the sign to the ground as
shown in the following table:
Ground Maximum = Maximum Diagonal (45°)
Clearance Projection Projection (corner lot)
8' or less il 1'0 il 1'0
9' il 1'6 ii 1'8
.............. !..~.i. ................ ~.."ll 2'0 ii 2'4
11' [[ 2'6 il 3'0
12' 3'0 ~ 3'8
13' il 3'6 il 4'4
............... 14' ii 4'0 ii 5'0
i 4'6 ]
..................... .............................................................. I 5'8
16' or more ]1 5'0 !1 6'4
Ordinance 2924
Page 25
Projecting signs less than eight feet from the ground shall not project
closer than three feet to any area used for vehicular circulation and six
inches to any area used for pedestrian circulation;
The sign shall not project above the roof, parapet, or first story;
The maximum sign area shall be 60 square feet for spheres, cylinders and
multisided signs, not including the top and bottom of the sign where no
copy is applied to those surfaces.
E. Rooftop: Each lot shall be allowed a rooftop sign in lieu of a freestanding or
projecting sign in accordance with the following:
Such signs are restricted to those establishments having a minimum street
frontage of 100 feet on a dedicated street and a minimum building
frontage of 50 feet. In the case of comer lots, only one frontage shall be
counted;
The height of the rooftop sign above the building on which it is located
shall not exceed the height of the building measured from the ground level
to the top of a parapet wall, a ridge line or the highest point of the roof.
But in no case shall the height exceed 35 feet above the ground level;
The maximum area of the sign shall not exceed 50 square feet for
buildings having 50 feet of frontage. Buildings with frontages of more
than 50 feet may increase the area of the sign two square feet per lineal
foot over 50 feet but shall not exceed 150 square feet.
Building Frontag® II Sign Area (Sq. Ft.)
50'
55'
60'
65'
70'
75'
80'
85'
90'
95'
100' and over
5o
60
70
80
90
100
110
120
130
140
150
The sign shall be placed perpendicular to the street it is oriented to and
shall maintain a minimum setback of 10 feet from the sides of the
building,
The sign shall not be permitted to project beyond the building face.
F. Signs on Screening Walls or Fences: In lieu of a freestanding sign, a sign may be
applied to a wall or fence used for screening of a parking area. The sign shall be subject
to the following:
Ordinance 2924
Page 26
The sign may only denote the name of the principal establishment or the
name of the commercial complex,
Maximum sign area, 25 square feet.
G. The design review committee may reduce sign areas below those authorized
above based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design manual, without
consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
19.60.570 Industrial Research (I-R) zone.
The following signs are allowed in I-R zones:
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign area
of one square foot for each lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or
alley, to a maximum of 100 square feet.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five cars or more and walkways 10 feet or more in width. They shall be allowed a sign
area of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing said area, to a
maximum of 50 square feet.
B. Freestanding (pole): Each lot shall be allowed one freestanding pole sign subject
to the following:
o
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 75 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots, only one frontage shall be
counted;
Maximum sign area, 75 square feet;
Maximum height, 20 feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign shall not be permitted to project into the public right-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 10-foot setback from all interior property lines;
Freestanding pole signs less than eight feet in height are restricted to a
maximum sign area of 12 square feet and shall maintain a five-foot
setback from all streets;
Commercial messages on pole signs in the I-R zone may identify only the
name of the complex and tenants therein.
C. Ground (monument): A low-profile ground sign may be used in lieu of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
Maximum height, eight feet;
Maximum sign area, 50 square feet;
The sign shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from all streets
and l0 feet from all interior property lines,
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
Do
Signs on Screening Walls or Fences: In lieu of a freestanding sign, a sign may be
applied to a wall or fence used for screening of parking areas. The sign shall be
subject to the following:
Ordinance 2924
Page 27
The sign may only denote the name of the principal establishment or the
name of the commercial complex;
Maximum sign area, 25 square feet.
E. The design review committee may reduce sign areas below those authorized
above based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design manual, without
consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
19.60.580 Limited Industrial (I-L) zone.
The following signs are allowed in I-L zones.
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign area
of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or alley;
however, the sign area may be increased to a maximum of three square feet per lineal
foot of building frontage; provided, that the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the
background area on which the sign is applied, mounted or displayed.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five cars or more and walkways 10 feet or more in width. Such signs shall be allowed an
area of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing said area; however, the
area may be increased to two square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; provided,
that the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the background area on which the sign is
applied, mounted or displayed. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet.
B. Freestanding (pole): Each lot shall be allowed one freestanding sign subject to
the following:
4.
5.
6.
7.
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 100 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots, only one frontage shall be
counted;
The sign may contain one square foot of area for each lineal foot of street
frontage but shall not exceed 150 square feet. In the case of comer lots or
through lots, only the frontage the sign is oriented to shall be counted
toward the allowable sign area;
Maximum height, 35 feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign shall not be permitted to project into the public right-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 20-foot setback from all interior property lines;
Freestanding pole signs less than eight feet in height are restricted to a
maximum sign area of 12 square feet and shall maintain a minimum
setback of five feet from all streets;
Commercial messages on pole signs in the I-L zone may identify only the
name of the complex and tenants therein.
C. Ground (monument): A low-profile ground sign may be used in lieu of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
1. Maximum height, eight feet;
2. Maximum sign area, 50 square feet;
Ordinance 2924
Page 28
The sign shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from all streets
and 10 feet from all interior property lines;
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
D. Signs on Screening Walls or Fences: In lieu of a freestanding sign, a sign may be
applied to a wall or fence used for screening of parking areas. The sign shall be subject
to the following:
The sign may only denote the name of the principal establishment or the
name of the commercial complex;
Maximum sign area, 25 square feet.
E. The design review committee may reduce sign areas below those authorized
above based on the sign guidelines and criteria contained in the design manual, without
consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
19.60.590 General Industrial (I) zone.
The following signs am allowed in I zones:
A. Wall and/or marquee: Each establishment shall be allowed a combined sign ama
of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing a dedicated street or alley;
however, the sign area may be increased to a maximum of three square feet per lineal
foot of building frontage; provided, the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the
background area on which the sign is applied, mounted or displayed.
Each establishment shall also be allowed signs facing on-site parking areas for
five cars or more and walkways I0 feet or more in width. Such signs shall be allowed an
area of one square foot per lineal foot of building frontage facing said area; however, the
area may be increased to two square feet per lineal foot of building frontage; provided,
the sign does not exceed 50 percent of the background area on which the sign is applied,
mounted or displayed. The maximum sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet;
B. Freestanding (pole): Each lot shall be allowed one freestanding sign subject to
the following:
4.
5.
6.
7.
Signs are restricted to those lots having a minimum frontage of 100 feet on
a dedicated street. In the case of comer lots, only one frontage shall be
counted;
The sign may contain one square foot of area for each lineal foot of street
frontage but shall not exceed 150 square feet. In the case of comer lots or
through lots, only the frontage the sign is oriented to shall be counted
toward the allowable sign area;
Maximum height, 35 feet;
Minimum ground clearance, eight feet;
The sign shall not be permitted to project into the public right-of-way;
The sign shall maintain a 20-foot setback from all interior property lines;
Freestanding pole signs less than eight feet in height am restricted to a
maximum sign area of 12 square feet and shall maintain a minimum
setback of five feet from all streets;
Ordinance 2924
Page 29
Commercial messages on pole signs in the I zone may identify only the
name of the complex and tenants therein.
C. Ground (monument): A low-profile ground sign may be used in lieu of a
freestanding pole sign. The sign shall be subject to the following:
Maximum height, eight feet;
Maximum sign area, 50 square feet;
The sign shall maintain a minimum setback of five feet from all streets
and 10 feet from all imerior property lines;
The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with
the main building and constructed with the same or similar materials.
The design review committee may reduce sign areas below those authorized
consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
19.60.595 Other zones.
Whenever sign standards or provisions have not been established for an unclassified use
requiring the issuance of a conditional use permit, the Planning Commission may establish sign
standards and provisions concurrently with the request for the conditional use permit. However,
such standards must comply with and incorporate all of the Standard Provisions of this chapter.
There are no general sign provisions in the public and quasi-public, floodway, or
tidelands zones. The Planning Commission and City Council shall establish sign standards and
provisions for a particular use in these zones concurrently with the approval of the use's
conditional use permit. However, such standards must comply with and incorporate all of the
Standard Provisions of this Chapter, CVMC § 19.60.050.
19.60.600 Specialty signs.
The signs described in this section are based on the legal use of the land on a particular
parcel.
A. Theater marquees. When allowed as an accessory to a legal use as a drive in
theater, a freestanding drive-in theater marquee sign shall not exceed 250 square feet in
area or 25 feet in height. The sign shall maintain a 20-foot setback from all property
lines. Each theater, drive-in or non-drive-in, shall be allowed to use changeable copy
signs in addition to the signs pennitted in the underlying zone. The area of the signs shall
not exceed 60 square feet facing in any one direction, nor shall the total aggregate sign
area exceed 150 square feet.
B. Service station price signs. On each legally operating station selling fuels for
motor vehicles, one service station price sign is allowed on each street frontage, subject
to:
The maximum sign ama shall be fifteen square feet, and the sign shall not
exceed five feet in any dimension. Such sign shall not be in conflict with
the provisions of the city's traffic code relating to visual clearance. The
sign shall satisfy the requirements of California Business and Professions
Code section 13531, and be posted with the correct prices at all times.
The signs shall be designed as a permanent structure, rigidly attached to a
Ordinance 2924
Page 30
building, wall, or adequately anchored in the ground to resist wind
pressure as specified in Title 15 in the currently adopted uniform building
code. A freestanding structure shall be architecturally compatible with the
building and shall not exceed a maximum height of six feet.
A sign may be attached to a freestanding sign if designed to be
architecturally part of the sign.
Price signs may be displayed on the main body of a pole sign but shall not
exceed twenty-five percent of the main sign area or fifteen square feet,
whichever is the least amount.
Notwithstanding the above provisions, no price signs otherwise required
by the provisions of Business and Professions Code Section 13531 shall
be placed along the following areas which have been designated on the
City's general plan as scenic corridors or historic preservation areas: that
area along East "H" Street between its intersection with Interstate 805 and
its intersection with Ridgeback Road.
C. Real estate signs. On any parcel or separately rentable portion thereof, sign(s)
pertaining to economic transactions regarding the property (such as sale, rental, lease,
exchange, etc.) is allowed, subject to the land owner's consent and:
Maximum Sign Area. Commercial and industrial zones, 32 square feet;
agricultural zones, 32 square feet for undeveloped acreage of one acre or
more, otherwise 4.5 square feet; residential zones, 4.5 square feet.
Height, ff freestanding. No freestanding sign shall exceed 10 feet in
height in any commercial or industrial zone or in the agricultural zone for
undeveloped acreage of one acre or more. In all other zones, the
maximum height shall be limited to 4.5 feet.
Number of signs. Through lots shall be allowed one sign on each street.
Comer lots shall be permitted one sign only.
Setback. Freestanding signs shall maintain a 10-foot setback from all
property lines.
Vacancy signs. Real estate signs reflecting the vacancy status and
availability of commercial or industrial space within a stmcture designed
for multiple occupancy, whether through rental, sale or lease, shall be
limited to a maximum sign area of 16 square feet. Not more than one sign
may be used facing a dedicated street. The sign may be attached fiat
against the building or be part of a permitted freestanding sign if designed
to be part of said sign and providing the total sign area does not exceed the
area permitted for the freestanding sign.
Location. On the property to which the sign pertains, or on other private
property with the consent of that property owner.
Open House signs - special roles. Off premises temporary real estate open
house signs are allowed permitted within all residential zones subject to:
a. No more than five off premise open house signs shall be allowed for
each residential open house which occurs.
b. No more than one sign shall be allowed to be placed on any interior
parcel and no more than two on a comer lot (one per street frontage).
c. Off premise open house signs shall only be displayed during daylight
hours.
d. Signs shall be no larger than four square feet and shall be located at
minimum of three feet from the sidewalk or ten feet from the curb or edge
of pavement, where no sidewalk exists.
Ordinance 2924
Page 31
e. An off premise temporary real estate open house sign shall only be
permitted in conjunction with an open house held for the resale of one
single family residence.
f. Off premise signs advertising the sale of more than one lot or more than
two dwellings constitutes a subdivision directional sign subject to the
regulations outlined in CVMC § 19.60.600 E.3.
g. Off-premise open house signs are prohibited within the public
right-of-way.
D. Residential neighborhood identification signs. Permanent residential
identification signs designating the name of the residential area may be located at an
entrance to the residential area when homeowners' association or maintenance district is
formed to insure the maintenance of the signs. The copy area of the sign shall not exceed
fifteen square feet. The sign structure shall be designed to be architecturally harmonious
with the residential area. This provision does not authorize the mounting of such signs on
City owned property or on public rights-of-way.
E. Tract housing. Tract housing signs shall be allowed in any zone of the City as
follows:
Model homes. For each model home, signage not exceeding 12 square
feet in area, eight feet in height, and two in number is allowed.
Commercial speech thereon shall relate to the model on the same parcel.
All such signage shall be permanently removed within ten days of when
the model home ceases to be used as a model.
Temporary tract signs. For each subdivision there may be one sign at each
principal entrance to the subdivision; such sign may be indirectly
illuminated, and any commercial message thereon shall relate only to the
dwelling units or lots on the same premises as subdivision on which the
sign is maintained. For subdivisions with five or more lots, the total
combined area of all temporary tract signs may not exceed 200 square feet
or 20 feet in height. For subdivisions with four or fewer lots, the total
combined area of all temporary tract signs may not exceed 32 square feet,
and no such sign may exceed eight feet in height. Ail such signs shall be
permanently removed not later than ten calendar days after the first sale of
all the homes in the subdivision.
Subdivision directional signage. Signs indicating a change of direction
which travelers must make to reach a subdivision located within the City
may be placed on private property, with the owner's consent, at each place
where such change of direction is needed, within five miles of the
subdivision. Individual signs may not exceed four and one half square
feet in area or three and one half feet in height, and may not be
illuminated. Individual signs may be single or double faced, or V shaped
if the angle between the two faces does not exceed forty five degrees.
Commercial messages thereon shall be limited to the name of the
subdivision and directional information. The zoning administrator may
require written evidence of owner's consent. Permits for all such signs
shall expire not later than six months after issuance, but the zoning
administrator may grant a maximum of two extensions of up to one year
each, without re-notification or hearing. Such signs may be displayed
only until the developer has completed the sale of each unit in the
development.
Ordinance 2924
Page 32
F. Signs for unclassified uses. Whenever sign standards or provisions have not been
established for an unclassified use requiring the issuance of a conditional use permit, the
Planning Commission may establish sign standards and provisions concurrently with the
approval of the conditional use permit. However, such standards must comply with and
incorporate all of the Standard Provisions of this Chapter, CVMC § 19.60.050.
G. Mansard Roofs. A principal identification or multiple copy wall sign may be
placed on a mansard roof subject to the following:
The sign shall not exceed one-half the length and width of the mansard on
which it is placed;
The area on which the sign is placed shall be designed to accommodate
the sign except when cut-out letters are used.
H. Pitched Roofs. A principal identification or multiple-copy wall sign may be
placed on a pitched roof subject to:
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
The sign shall be placed on a pitched roof that slopes toward the street the
establishment is oriented to;
No sign may be placed on the ridge of the roof;
No sign may project above a line drawn from the center of the street to the
ridge of the roof;
The sign shall set back a minimum horizontal distance of three feet from
the front edge of the roof;
The length of the sign shall not exceed one-half of the length of the roof
and shall be horizontally centered;
The area shall not exceed two square feet per lineal foot of roof on which
the sign is placed;
The ends of the sign shall extend back to the roof to form an enclosure.
I. Agricultural uses. Signs for agricultural uses are allowed in any zone, subject to
the following:
Multiple wall signs facing a dedicated street are allowed, but the total sign
area of all wall signs shall not exceed one square foot for each lineal foot
of building frontage; in addition
One freestanding sign not exceeding eight square feet in sign area and ten
feet in height shall be allowed.
J. Architectural Appendages. In lieu of a freestanding or projecting sign which is
otherwise allowed, a sign may be placed on an architectural appendage. Such sign may
not exceed the area or alter the appearance of an appendage on which it is placed, and
may not exceed the allowable area of the freestanding or projecting sign which it is
replacing.
K. Temporary noncommercial signs during certain periods. In addition to signage
otherwise allowed in any zone, during the period of four calendar months preceding any
scheduled election and up to and including ten calendar days following such election,
temporary signs bearing non commercial messages (including but not limited to messages
on the topics of politics, religion, science, arts, philosophy, etc.) may be displayed on
Ordinance 2924
Page 33
private property (not including private property which is also public right of way),
without permit, subject to the owner's consent, and also subject to:
In agricultural and residential zones:
a. No sign may exceed five square feet in area.
b, Double-faced signs as defined in this chapter aro permitted.
c. No sign shall be posted in such a manner that any portion of said sign is
within five feet of the house side of the sidewalk and, if there is no
sidewalk within 15 feet of said sign, then 15 feet from the house side of
the street curb. Said signs must be placed at least five feet from the house
side of intersecting sidewalks or if there are no sidewalks, then 15 feet
from the house or back sides of intersecting curbs. Unless a further
setback is required by the foregoing rules (as in the case of corner lots
adjacent to intersecting streets), said signs shall be located at least five feet
from side property lines except for lots located at intersections.
d. No sign shall exceed three and one-half feet in height in the front
setback area, and such signs shall not exceed six feet in height in any area
unless said sign is attached flush to any building. The measurement shall
be taken from the ground level to the top of said sign.
e. No sign may be affLxed to an already existing sign.
L Nothing in this section shall be construed to render a property owner
liable for the posting of a sign on his or her property.
In commercial and industrial zones:
a. No sign may exceed twelve square feet in area. Double-faced signs as
defined in this chapter may be permitted.
b. No sign may be affixed to an already existing sign.
Removal. The procedure for the removal of temporary noncommercial
signs is as follows:
a. Notice. The director shall give 24 hours notice to the owner of the sign
(if known), of the City's intent to remove any unauthorized temporary sign
bearing a noncommercial message. The notice shall specify the provision
of the sign ordinance being violated, and shall inform the owner that
removal charges will be assessed. The owner may, within twenty-four
hours of receiving notice, request a hearing before the director to appeal
the decision to remove the sign. If the owner so requests, the sign shall
not be removed until the hearing has been held and a final decision
rendered. If the owner cannot be identified or located after reasonable
effort, the sign may be treated as abandoned property and removed.
b. Appeal and removal. In the absence of an appeal of the removal
decision, the sign may be removed by the City and the reasonable cost
thereof charged to the sign owner and/or persons responsible for placing
the illegal sign. Such cost shall be set by resolution of City Council.
L. Informational signs. The signs allowed by this subsection fulfill informational
and directional needs.
Directory signs. On buildings wherein are located several different
establishments, directory signs may be located on an exterior elevation of
a building if the directory is placed flat against the building at or near a
building entrance or area restricted to pedestrian traffic only. The sign
shall be no more than 10 square feet in area and 5 feet in height.
Ordinance 2924
Page 34
Directional signs. Signs containing directional information for pedestrian
and vehicular traffic may be used subject to the following:
a.. Maximum sign area is 10 square feet;
b. No sign may exceed 10 feet in height;
c. Directional rooftop signs are prohibited except when incorporated into
the design of an approved rooftop sign designed to accommodate the sign;
d. The signs shall not be attached to any light standard, flag pole, or onto
any other sign except as provided herein;
e. The number and location of all directional signs shall be limited to the
least number to provide ample notification.
Warning and instructional signs. Warning and instructional signs, such as
"beware of dog," "danger high voltage," "no trespassing," "no dumping,"
etc., are allowed subject to: area: maximum 3 square feet; height: if
freestanding, maximum six feet; attachment: may not be attached to any
light standard, flagpole, or any other freestanding sign.
19.60.700 Signs permits.
A. Permits - when required. No person except a public officer or public employee in
the performance of an official duty shall paste, post, paint, print, nail, tack, erect, place or
otherwise fasten, or maintain or permit any sign, pennant or notice of any kind, facing or
visible from a public street, public or private right of way in the City except as provided
herein. To insure compliance with this section, a sign permit shall be required for any
sign, except as provided herein. The procedure regarding application for and processing
of sign permits, as well as the procedures for the appeal of decisions thereon, is set forth
beginning with CVMC § 19.60.800.
B. Purpose of permitting. All permitting and approval processes required by this
chapter are intended to ensure compliance with this chapter and various safety codes, as
well as to prevent the loss of time, effort and materials which might otherwise be invested
in an illegal sign.
C. Exempt signs. The signs described in this subsection am not subject to the permit
requirement, and do not count towards the total signage which is otherwise allowable.
o
Signs described in other sections of this chapter as not requiring or being
subject to the permit requirement.
Street address signs not exceeding three square feet in area total per
parcel;
Symbols or insignia which are an integral part of a doormat or welcome
mat, or embedded directly into the sidewalk or entrance surface, so long as
such device is otherwise legal and is located entirely on private property
and on the ground or sidewalk;
Signs used in conjunction with "special events" as defined and regulated
by CVMC § 19.58.370 and § 19.58.380;
Any public or legal notice required by a court or public agency.
Signs authorized or required by another body of law.
Flags displaying noncommercial images, provided that the total area (one
side only) does not exceed one percent of the square feet of surface area of
the parcel, the number of flag poles on a parcel does not exceed one per
100 linear feet of street frontage, and the height of any flag pole does not
exceed 30 feet;
Ordinance 2924
Page 35
8. Construction signs which meet these requirements: maximum number per
project under construction: one; maximum area: 150 square feet;
maximum height (if free standing): 25 feet; minimum setback: 10 feet
from all interior property lines; maximum display time: from the time a
grading or building permit is issued and remains valid and unexpired, until
the construction project is completed or abandoned.
9. Hand held and portable signs that do not display a commercial message
and are otherwise legal or allowed under this chapter;
10. Mass transit signage: Advertisements or banners mounted on trains or
duly licensed mass transit vehicles that legally pass through the City;
11. On-site informational signs not viewable from the public right-of-way or
adjacent properties;
12. Off-site directional signs located wholly on private property.
13. Professional signs not exceeding one square foot in area and located
wholly on an appurtenant commercial building;
14. Window signs which otherwise comply with all applicable regulations.
15. Temporary non-commercial signs which otherwise comply with all
applicable regulations.
16. Real estate and open hous~ signs which otherwise comply with all
applicable regulations.
17. Garage sale signs that comply with CVMC § 5.32.050.
18. Messages relating to the business of which the vehicle or vessel is an
instrument or tool (not including general advertising) and messages
relating to the proposed sale, lease or exchange of the vehicle or vessel.
19. Interior signs: Signs or other visual communicative devices that are
located entirely within a building or other enclosed structure and are not
visible from the exterior thereof, provided the building or enclosed
structure is otherwise legal.
19.60.800 Permit applications.
The application for a sign permit shall be made in writing on the form provided by the
planning department and shall be accompanied by any fee established by City Council
resolution. Such application shall set forth and contain the following information and items:
A. A drawing to scale showing the design of the sign, including dimensions, sign
size, colors (applies to commercial message signs only), materials, method of attachment,
source of illumination and showing the relationship to any building or structure to which
it is proposed to be installed or affixed or to which it relates.
B. A site plan, including all dimensions, drawn to scale indicating the location of the
sign relative to the property line, fights-of-way, streets, sidewalks, vehicular access points
and existing buildings or structures and off-street parking areas located on the premises.
C. The number, size, type and location of all existing signs on the same building, site
or premises.
D. Any structural information and plans necessary to ensure compliance with the
latest adopted building standards.
E. Such other information as the planning department may reasonably request to
determine that the proposed application is in full compliance with the provisions of this
Ordinance 2924
Page 36
chapter, the City Code and any other applicable law.
displayed on the sign is not required.
The message proposed to be
F. Proof of the consent of the property owner or other person in control or
possession of the property. For example, if the subject property is leased and the
applicant is the lessee, the lessee must demonstrate that the sign complies with all
provisions of the lease related to signage, or submit a written landlord's consent.
19.60.810 Processing of applications.
A. Time. Unless otherwise stated, all time periods in this section am calendar days.
B. Completeness. The zoning administrator shall determine whether the application
contains all the information and items required by this chapter. If it is determined that the
application is not complete, the applicant shall be notified in person or in writing within
thirty days of the date of receipt of the application that the application is not complete and
the reasons therefore, including any additional information necessary to render the
application complete. The applicant shall then have thirty (30) calendar days to submit
additional information to render the application complete; failure to do so within the
thirty (30) day period shall render the application void. Within thirty days following the
receipt of an amended application or supplemental information, the planning director
shall again determine whether the application is complete in accordance with the
procedures set forth in this subsection. Evaluation and notification shall occur as
provided above until such time as the application is found to be complete (the
"application date").
C. Disqualification. No sign application will be approved if.'
The applicant has installed a sign in violation of the provisions of this
chapter and, at the time of submission of the application, each illegal sign
has not been legalized, removed or included in the application;
Them is any other existing code violation located on the site of the
proposed sign(s) (other than an illegal or nonconforming sign that is not
owned or controlled by the applicant and is located at a different business
location on the site from that for which the approval is sought) which has
not been cured at the time of the application; or;
The sign approval application is substantially the same as an application
previously denied, unless: (i) twelve (12) months have elapsed since the
date of the last application, or (ii) new evidence or proof of changed
conditions is furnished in the new application;
The applicant has not obtained any applicable required use permit or
conditional use permit.
D. Method of review. The method of review is standard compliance review. The
zoning administrator, or the design review committee, Planning Commission or City
Council on appeal, shall determine whether approval shall be granted for any sign based
on its conformance with the regulations and design standards set forth herein and in the
City design manual, without consideration of the graphic design of the copy or message
displayed on the sign.
Ordinance 2924
Page 37
E. Certain signs calling for design review. Decisions under this standard shall be
guided by the following principles and shall not be based on the graphic design of the
copy or message displayed on the signs:
5.
6.
7.
Fluorescent paints shall be avoided;
Sign copy should not extend beyond the edges of the background area on
which it is applied;
The copy area of signs, including logos, emblems, crests and pictorial
representations, should not exceed fifty percent of the background area on
which it is applied;
The height of a pole sign should not be less than twice its width.
The height of the bottom of the signboard of a pole sign should be less
than three times but more than twice the width of the signboard;
The two sides of a rectangular pole sign should have a ratio of three to
five;
The base of each freestanding sign shall be landscaped in accordance with
the landscaping manual of Chula Vista, without consideration of the
graphic design of the copy or message displayed on the sign.
F. Decisions. Where an application is denied by the zoning administrator, or the
design review committee, Planning Commission or City Council on appeal, the applicant
shall be informed in writing of the changes necessary in order to approve the application.
If the applicant chooses to amend the application to reflect said changes, the zoning
administrator shall grant the permit within thirty days of when a complete and
conforming application is submitted.
The zoning administrator shall render a decision on a sign permit within thirty
days of the date of application.
G. Appeals. All sign permit applications shall be initially reviewed by the zoning
administrator. The applicant or any concerned person may appeal any sign related
decision in this order: design review committee, planning commission and city council.
In each case, written notice of appeal must be filed with the City Clerk within ten days of
when the decision was delivered or sent to applicant and all known concerned persons, or
the last day on which a decision could have been timely rendered. In each case, the
appellate body must conduct a hearing and consider evidence, and render a written
decision within thirty days. In the cases of appeal to the Planning Commission and the
City Council, the hearing must follow normal procedures for agendizing and giving
public notice. Unless time is waived by the applicant, any permit or approval on which
the city does not render a definite decision within the required time shall be deemed
denied, and the time for appeal or filing judicial review shall commence on the last date
on which the City could have issued a decision.
H. Judicial Review. Following final decision by the City Council, any concerned
person may seek judicial review of the final decision on a sign permit application
pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure section 1094.8.
I. Multiple sign applications. When an application proposes two or more signs, the
application may be granted either in whole or in part, with separate decisions as to each
proposed sign. When an application is denied in whole or in part, the Director's written
notice of determination shall specify the grounds for such denial..
Ordinance 2924
Page 38
J. Revocation or cancellation. The Director shall revoke any approval upon refusal
of the holder thereof to comply with the provisions of this chapter after written notice of
noncompliance and at least fifteen (15) days opportunity to cure.
K. Permits issued in error. Any approval or permit issued in error may be summarily
revoked by the City upon written notice to the holder of the reason for the revocation.
19.60.900 Removal of certain signs.
A. Obsolete and abandoned signs. All signs relating to a product no longer available
for purchase by the public and all signs relating to an establishment which has closed or
moved away shall be removed, together with any supporting structures and bracing not
considered an integral part of the building. Painted wall signs shall be painted over with
a color that closely resembles or matches the color of the wall. If the owner of, or
persons responsible for, the sign, or the tenant closing the establishment, fails to remove
or paint over the sign, the owner of the premises shall be responsible and the work shall
be done within ninety days following the date of obsolescence.
B. Charges for moving, removal, correction of sign. The fees for the City moving,
removing, correcting, storing, or doing work on a sign or sign structure shall be the
required fee(s). The City may charge the fees against any of the following, each of whom
shall be jointly and severally liable for said charge:
2.
3.
4.
The permittee;
The owner of the sign;
The owner of the premises on which the sign is located;
The occupant of the premises on which the sign is located.
C. Storage of removed signs - Time limit - Recovery procedure. A removed sign
shall be held not less than thirty days by the City during which period it may be
recovered by the owner upon payment to the City of the required fee(s) as set by
resolution of City Council. If not recovered within the thirty-day period, the sign and
supporting structures shall be declared abandoned and title thereto shall vest in the City.
The fees may be in addition to any penalty for the violation, and recovery of sign does
not necessarily abrogate the penalty.
19.60.930 Amortization of nonconforming onsite signs.
All on-site signs in any zone constructed and erected prior to the effective date of the
ordinance codified herein, or any prior ordinance under which they were also nonconforming
(considering only the non-communicative aspects of the sign) pursuant to the issuance of a valid
building permit issued by the City, which do not conform to the requirements of the provisions
of this tire for the particular zone in which they are located or in regard to design review
requirements, shall be allowed an amortization period of fifteen years from the effective date of
the earliest ordinance under which they were nonconforming, and shall thereafter be subject to
abatement and removal as provided.
A. Notice. Any owner of a nonconforming sign at the expiration of fifteen years
from the effective date of the ordinance codified herein shall be noticed of the
nonconformity of the display. Ownership shall be determined by the ownership of the
property as shown by the most recent assessor's tax roll. Should any owner wish to
appeal the removal of any nonconforming sign based upon the reasonableness of the
Ordinance 2924
Page 39
fifteen-year amortization period, such appeal shall be done in accordance with subsection
D. below. Removal of the sign shall be stayed until such time as an appeal is fmaily
decided by the City Council.
B. Appeals procedure. Any appeal from an order to remove a nonconforming sign
which has used up its amortization allowance may be appealed through the same
procedure as a appeal of a sign pen-nit application. In the case of fully amortized
nonconforming signs subject to a removal order, the appeal shall state and provide
evidence of:
5.
6.
7.
A detailed description of the sign or structure, the method of its
construction, its measurements and the message contained thereon;
The name of the owner or owners of the property upon which the sign or
structure is located;
A definition and term of the appellanfs right to locate and/or maintain the
sign or structure on said property. Include amount paid, if any, for the
right to locate and/or maintain the sign or structure;
The date and cost of original construction of the sign or structure;
The date and cost of appellant's purchase of the sign or structure;
The date or dates and cost of major repairs to the sign or structure;
The average monthly gross income derived from the proceeds generated
from the sign or structure, measured over the period of existence or
ownership;
The current net value of the sign or structure as carried on the books of the
company, as well as any estimate of current fair market value (including
the qualifications of persons making such estimate, and the basis
therefore);
Each application on appeal shall be verified.
SECTION III. Sections 19.04.208 through 19.04.268, 19.20.050, 19.22.050, 19.24.050,
19.26.050, 19.28.050, 19.30.050, 19.32.050, 19.34.040, 19.36.040, 19.38.040, 19.40.040,
19.42.060, 19.44.060, 19.46.050, 19.58.225, and 19.70.016 of the Chula Vista Municipal Code
are hereby repealed in their entirety.
SECTION IV. Urgency Ordinance No. 2924-A adopted on July 8, 2003 and any legislation
extending that ordinance shall be hereby repealed in its entirety upon this ordinance taking
effect.
SECTION V. This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force on the thirtieth day from and
after its adoption.
Submitted by
Approved as to form by
J/~S~D. Sandoval~
t~ting Planning and Building Director
Ann Moore
City Attorney
Ordinance 2924
Page 40
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Chula Vista,
California, this 26th day of August, 2003, by the following vote:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers:
Councilmembers:
Councilmembers:
Davis, McCann, Rindone, Salas and Padilla
None
None
A'I'I'EST:
Susan Bigelow, CMC, City Clerk
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO )
CITY OF CHULA VISTA )
I, Susan Bigelow, City Clerk of Chula Vista, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing
Ordinance No. 2924 had its first reading at a regular meeting held on the 19th day of August,
2003 and its second reading and adoption at a regular meeting of said City Council held on the
26th day of August, 2003.
Executed this 26th day of August, 2003.
Susan Bigelow, CMC, City Cler~