Chapter 21.44 ON-PREMISES SIGNS

The City recognizes and strongly subscribes to the right of business people to identify their businesses with signs and other advertising graphics. However, the City also recognizes that the location, number, size and design of signs significantly influence the City’s visual environment and the perception of the City’s economic condition. It is the intent of these regulations to maintain and enhance the quality of the City’s visual appearance while continuing to recognize the need of businesses to advertise goods and services.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.020 Accessory uses.

On-premises signs are permitted in all districts as accessory uses only, subject to the provisions outlined in this Chapter.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.030 Sign permit required.

A. Required. A sign permit is required to display, enlarge, modify, relocate or change in any way, other than to perform general maintenance, repair or complete removal, an on-premises sign in any zone district, unless such action is expressly exempted by this Chapter.

B. Jurisdiction. The Department of Planning and Building shall be responsible for reviewing sign permit applications and issuing sign permits.

C. Filing Of Application. Applications for sign permits shall be filed with the Director of Planning and Building on forms provided by the Department of Planning and Building. Filing fees, as established by resolution of the City Council, shall be filed with the application. Additional information shall be provided as required by the Director of Planning and Building.

D. Time Limit. Permits shall be used within one year of issuance, otherwise they shall be null and void.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.035 Sign standards waiver process.

A. A waiver from the provisions of these sign regulations shall be considered only through the site plan review procedures as specified in Division V of Chapter 21.25--Specific Procedures. Prohibited signs, listed in Section 21.44.080, shall not be approved through this process, but may be approved pursuant to Division III of Chapter 21.25--Specific Procedures.

B. Sign Program. A sign program is defined as any sign application submittal for five (5) or more new signs (not including exempt or temporary signs) intended to be placed on a new or existing development. To qualify as a sign program, all signs on the property (existing and new) must be designed in such a manner so as to be internally consistent, coordinated, and whole within themselves and to bolster the architectural theme of the subject property. A waiver from the sign development standards may be granted for a sign program pursuant to the procedures established in Division V of Chapter 21.25--Specific Procedures. However, prohibited signs, listed in Section 21.44.080, shall not be approved through this process.

(Ord. C-7550 § 10, 1998: Ord. C-7500 § 7, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.040 Administrative removal of signs.

Signs may be removed by the City in accordance with the following procedures:

A. Illegal Or Dilapidated Signs. If the Director of Planning and Building, or his designee, finds that a permanent sign is in violation of this Chapter, or is in disrepair, deteriorated, including peeling paint, prohibited, abandoned, illegal, or is in violation of the Building Code or any other laws and ordinances, he shall seek correction of the violations as provided for in the Municipal Code. The Director of Planning and Building shall inform the sign owner by a written notice that the sign is to be removed.

B. Safety Hazard Or On Public Right-Of-Way. The City Engineer, or his designee, without giving notice, shall have the authority to authorize removal of any sign which:

1. Poses an immediate threat to public safety; or

2. Is displayed in violation of the provisions of this Chapter or other City ordinances on or over any public right-of-way.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.050 Restoration of building face.

Within thirty (30) days of the removal of a sign from a building, the wall of the building shall be repaired to remove any blemish left by the removal.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.060 Sign maintenance.

All signs shall be kept in a well maintained condition. No sign shall be displayed which, in the judgment of the Director of Planning and Building, or his designee, is not in good repair and maintained in a safe condition. All signs must be kept free from deterioration, free from defective parts, free from burned out lamps and peeling paint, and must be able to withstand the wind pressure for which it was originally designed.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.070 Exempt signs.

The classes of signs set forth in this Section are exempt from the application, permit and fee requirements for on-premises signs, provided the exempt signs conform to Table 44-1--Exempt Signs. This Section shall not exempt such signs from other provisions of the Municipal Code which may require building or electrical permits.

(Ord. C-7500 § 8, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

Table 44-1
Exempt Signs

Class of Sign	Maximum Size	Maximum Number	Other Conditions
1. Building directory sign identifying building occupants	18 sq. ft.	1 per parking lot entry and building entry	-If changeable copy used, must be glass encased
			-Must be visible from sidewalk or parking lot
2. Interior signs	Area of sign must be less than 25% of total area of window through which it is exhibited	No maximum limit	-Must be located between 1 foot to 6 feet to the interior of any window from which sign is visible
			-Sign may not flash, rotate or exhibit any other prohibited characteristics
3. Public service and accessory signs identifying public conveniences (e.g., restrooms, telephones, hours of operation, vacancies)	Total area of all signs visible from any one street shall not exceed 10 sq. ft.	No maximum limit	None
4. Theater outer lobby posters advertising current or coming attractions	No regulations	No maximum limit	Must be glass encased
5. Wall painted signs	Must comply with wall sign standards	Must comply with wall sign standards	None
6. Window signs	Total of all signs displayed in any one window may not cover more than 10% of total window area	No maximum limit	Must be placed in such a manner so as to not obstruct visibility into business
7. Any other non-prohibited sign, if less than 3 sq. ft.	Not to exceed 3 sq. ft.	No maximum limit	None
8. Construction sign identifying firms involved in construction site, future tenants, or announcing development	Height--15 ft.	1 per street abutting construction site	-Must be removed within 15 days of completion of construction
	Area--No specifications		-No illumination permitted
9. Flags	Length--6 ft.	2	Flag pole height shall be limited to the established building height for each respective district
	Width--6 ft.
10. Garage sale signs	Height--4 ft.	1 per garage sale on same premises	None
	Area--6 sq. ft.
11. Open house signs or flags/banners	Height--4 ft.	No maximum limit	-May be used on temporary basis only when house is open for inspection without an appointment
	Area--6 sq. ft.		-May not be placed on public property
12. Political campaign signs	Height--None	1 per occupied residence or business street frontage	-Signs may not be illuminated
	Area--6 sq. ft.		-Signs may be displayed only for a period not exceeding 45 days prior to and 5 days after an election
			-No signs may be placed in or on any public right-of-way
			-Site upon which sign is located must be occupied
			-Each candidate or authorized representative must sign an affidavit assuring removal of all political signs
13. Real estate signs (on-premises) advertising sale, rental or lease of property and/or Real estate banners	Height--8 ft. Area -	1 per street abutting premises	-Types limited to non-illuminated wall, window, freestanding or banner signs
	a) Non-residential use--32 sq. ft.		-No signs may be placed on public property
	b) Residential use--6 sq. ft. for first dwelling unit plus 1 sq. ft. for each additional unit up to 32 sq. ft. maximum		-Signs and/or banners may be displayed only during the period the premises is held for sale, rental or lease, and for not more than 15 days thereafter
	Height--no specifications
	Area--32 sq. ft. or 6 sq. ft./additional units, whichever is less	1 in addition to 1 other real estate sign on each street frontage
14. Single-family residential sign identifying resident	Not to exceed 2 sq. ft.	1 per residence	None
15. Warning signs (e.g., “Danger,” “No Dumping”)	No specifications	1 sign for each warning for each street frontage	None

Abbreviations:

sq. ft. = square feet

ft. = feet

(Ord. C-7500 § 15, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.080 Prohibited signs.

The following signs shall be prohibited:

A. Unlawful Sign Projections. No sign shall project into an adjoining private property under separate ownership, or into a public right-of-way or into an established setback unless an encroachment permit has been issued by the City Engineer.

B. Roof Signs. All roof signs are prohibited.

C. Flashing Signs. No sign shall flash, shimmer or glitter, nor give the appearance of flashing, shimmering or glittering, except for electronic message center signs or signs indicating the time, date and/or temperature (see Sections 21.44.115 and 21.52.229 for additional criteria). Signs in amusement parks are exempt from this regulation.

D. Rotating Signs. No sign shall rotate, oscillate or otherwise move, nor give the appearance of rotating, oscillating or moving. Signs in amusement parks are exempt from this regulation.

E. Sound, Odor, Particulate Matter. No sign shall emit audible sound, odor or particulate matter.

F. Unlawful Illumination.

1. No sign illumination system shall contain or use any beacon, spot, or stroboscopic light, or reflector which is visible from any public right-of-way or adjacent property. Signs in amusement parks are exempt from this regulation.

2. Generally, illuminated signs shall not be allowed to change color or light intensity. The exception being neon and/or fiber optic sign light sources, which are permitted to gradually change color. Light intensity for any illuminated sign shall not be allowed to change. Signs in amusement parks are exempt from this regulation.

3. No floodlight shall be used which is not hooded or shielded so that the light source is not visible from any public right-of-way or adjacent property.

G. Portable Signs. Portable signs are prohibited, except that a portable sign may be displayed to indicate a temporarily closed vehicular entrance or exit for purposes of public safety or convenience.

H. Street Furniture. Signs shall not be placed on street furniture, as defined in this Title. However, two (2) business name signs may be placed on sidewalk newsstands pursuant to the provisions of this Chapter pertaining to wall signs.

I. Vehicle Signs. Signs identifying an adjacent or nearby business shall not be affixed to vehicles parked in the public right-of-way or on private property in a manner such that the sign functions as an on-premises sign. This regulation shall not apply to buses and taxicabs legally operating within the City limits.

J. Obstruction Of Use Or Visibility. No sign shall be located so that any portion of the sign or its supports interferes with the free use of any fire escape or exit or obstructs any required fire standpipe, stairway, door, ventilator or window; nor shall any sign be located so as to obstruct the visibility of vehicles or pedestrians using driveways or doorways.

K. Interference With Utility Lines. No sign shall be located which has less horizontal or vertical clearance from utility lines than that prescribed by the rules of the Public Utilities Commission of the State.

L. Interference With Official Traffic Control Devices. No sign shall appear in color, wording, design, location or illumination to resemble or conflict with any traffic control device.

M. Repealed.

N. Any sign not exempted or permitted shall be prohibited.

(Ord. C-7550 § 20, 1998; Ord. C-7500 § 9, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.090 Signs on public property.

A. Applicability. No person, except a public officer or employee performing a public duty, shall place any sign on, above, along or within any public property. This prohibition does not apply to:

1. Temporary promotional activity signs in public parks in connection with activities or uses approved by the City;

2. Street banners, temporary holiday season decorations, and other street decorations on or suspended from lamp poles or other public structures shall be permitted when approved by the Director of Public Works and the City Manager;

3. Signs authorized by the City inside publicly owned places of assemblage such as convention halls, auditoriums, sports arenas or stadiums which are used in a proprietary capacity;

4. Private advertising on signs authorized by the City which are located on public property outside and adjacent to publicly owned places of assemblage such as convention halls, auditoriums, sports arenas or stadiums which are used in a proprietary capacity, provided that such private advertising does not exceed ten percent (10%) of the sign area;

5. Wall signs for on-premises advertising on buildings used by concessionaires or other private commercial users or lessees of public property, when authorized by departments or agencies of the City in their proprietary capacity, and provided that any such signs comply with the provisions of Section 21.44.130 pertaining to wall or pylon signs;

6. Painting of house numbers upon curbs in compliance with the requirements of this Code;

7. Community identification signs provided:

a. The signs are located in parkways or in the median island of divided highways;

b. The signs shall comply with the established design guidelines as per Section 21.44.105--Community Identification Signs, and Section 21.44.106--Community Commercial District Identification Signs; and

c. The applicant has a written construction and maintenance agreement approved by the Director of Public Works.

8. Advertising, advertising displays or donor recognition permitted pursuant to Chapter 16.55.

B. Permit Required. Any person who intends to place a private sign on public property as permitted by Subsection 21.44.090.A shall first obtain a permit from either the Director of Public Works or in the case of public property used in a proprietary capacity, from the department or agency of the City in charge of such property. A permit application form shall be provided by the City. The City Council, by resolution, may establish permit fees and may authorize rental rates or other appropriate charges for this permitted use of public property.

In the Coastal Zone:

1. On the sandy beach, the placement of private freestanding signs is prohibited.

2. Prior to the placement of any private sign on public property located adjacent to the sandy beach, a coastal development permit shall be approved for a comprehensive sign plan. A comprehensive sign plan shall include specific standards for the size, number and location of proposed signs. A coastal development permit for a comprehensive sign plan shall be approved only if a positive finding is made that the sign or signs included in the plan do not:

a. Obstruct public views to or along the coast;

b. Adversely impact public access to and use of the water;

c. Adversely impact public recreational use of a public park or beach; or

d. Otherwise adversely affect recreation, access or the visual resources of the coast.

3. A coastal development permit shall be required for any sign placed on public property in the Coastal Zone pursuant to Subsection 21.44.090.A.4 or 21.44.090.A.8, except that a coastal development permit shall not be required for: wall signs; signs on the interior of structures; signs comprised solely of paint on existing structures; temporary banners, flags and political campaign signs displayed for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days; warning signs; traffic safety signs; and public service signs less than four (4) square feet that identify public conveniences (e.g., restrooms, telephones, hours of operation, government ordinances). A coastal development permit for a sign on public property shall be approved only if a positive finding is made that the sign design and scale does not:

a. Obstruct views to or along the coast from publicly accessible places;

b. Adversely impact public access to and use of the water;

c. Adversely impact public recreational use of a public park or beach; or

d. Otherwise adversely affect recreation, access or the visual resources of the coast.

C. Removal Of Signs. Any sign permitted on public property shall be removed by the party responsible for its posting immediately after the conclusion of the advertised event or by the removal date established by ordinance, regulation, contract or event. If such sign is not removed by that time, it shall be deemed abandoned and may be summarily removed by the City. The person or entity responsible for posting said sign shall be liable for the City’s costs incurred in the removal of such sign, and the City Manager or his/her designee is authorized to collect said costs.

D. Illegal Signs. Any sign placed on public property in violation of the provisions of this Section is declared a public nuisance and may be summarily removed by the City. The person or entity responsible for such illegal posting shall be liable for the City’s costs incurred in the removal of such sign, and the City Manager or his/her designee is authorized to collect said costs.

(Ord. C-7663 § 27, 1999; Ord. C-7617 § 3, 1999; Ord. C-7500 § 10, 1997: Ord. C-7429 § 2, 1996; Ord. C-7326 § 24, 1995: Ord. C-7032 § 32, 1992; Ord. C-6822 § 18, 1990; Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.100 Development standards.

A. Signs Subject To Standards. All signs not listed as exempt or temporary signs shall be subject to the development standards specified in Sections 21.44.101 through 21.44.400. The only exceptions shall be for:

1. Projects/developments located in the Downtown--Pine Avenue Activity Center (defined as buildings fronting on Pine Avenue north of Ocean Boulevard and south of Seventh Street). Sign proposals in this area shall be consistent with the Redevelopment Agency’s Sign Program Guidelines and coordinated with these sign regulations; and

2. Signs that receive sign standards waiver permits pursuant to Section 21.44.035.

All other nonexempt and permanent signs shall require a sign permit subject to the standards specified in Sections 21.44.101 through 21.44.400.

B. Neon Outlining Of Buildings. Neon tubing lighting and stringed lighting used to outline buildings or emphasize architectural elements of a building shall not be considered sign illumination but rather an architectural element subject to review and approval through the site plan review process as specified in Division V of Chapter 21.25--Specific Procedures.

(Ord. C-7500 § 11, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.101 Development standards--Major signs.

Freestanding signs, projecting signs, wall or pylon signs, awning signs and marquee/canopy signs shall all be considered major signs. A freestanding sign and a projecting sign may not be located on the same property, but any other major sign combination is possible subject to the development standards outlined in this Section.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.103 Changeable copy sign.

A. Sign Standards Waiver Required. All changeable copy signs except signs for churches, florists and gasoline price signs for gas stations shall be required to obtain a sign standards waiver prior to the issuance of a building permit as described in Division V of Chapter 21.25--Specific Procedures.

B. Size. Changeable copy displays may be installed on all signs otherwise permitted by this Chapter. The area of the changeable copy display shall be counted toward the allowable sign area for the type of sign upon which the changeable copy is installed.

(Ord. C-7663 § 28, 1999; Ord. C-7550 § 19, 1998).

21.44.105 Community identification signs.

The City recognizes the desire for unique communities within its boundaries to positively identify themselves and their geographic boundaries. To this end, the following guidelines are established to control the design, content, and location of community identification signs on private property:

A. Type Of Sign. Limited to monument signs.

B. Maximum Height. Community identification signs are limited to a maximum height of four feet (4’).

C. Maximum Length. Limited to nine feet (9’) long.

D. Thickness. Minimum of three inches (3”) to a maximum of one foot (1’).

E. Materials. Wood, stone, concrete, or metal or a combination of these materials.

F. Lettering. Individual letters carved from display or bolted onto display. Fragile or glued-on lettering is prohibited.

G. Lighting. Exterior light source only.

H. Prohibited. Sign cans, plastic, or fabric sign fascia.

I. Identification. Each community identification sign must indicate that the respective community is part of the City of Long Beach.

J. Required Plans. Prior to the issuance of a sign permit, a location map shall be submitted along with the required sign plan for review and approval by the Zoning Administrator.

(Ord. C-7500 § 22, 1997).

21.44.106 Community Commercial District identification signs.

The City recognizes the desire for unique commercial districts to positively identify themselves and their geographic boundaries. To this end, the following guidelines are established to control the design, content, and location of commercial district identification signs on private property:

A. Type Of Sign. Limited to freestanding/monument signs.

B. Maximum Height. Limited to a maximum height of fifteen feet (15’).

C. Maximum Length. Limited to a maximum length (width) of nine feet (9’).

D. Thickness. Limited to a maximum thickness of one foot (1’), not including the base.

E. Location. Not closer than twenty-five feet (25’) from the nearest freestanding sign.

F. Lighting. Interior or exterior lighting is permitted.

G. Prohibited. Can signs, or signs with plastic or fabric panels are prohibited.

H. Identification. Each commercial identification sign must indicate that the respective commercial district is part of the City of Long Beach.

I. Required Plans. Prior to the issuance of a sign permit, a location map shall be submitted along with the required sign plan for review and approval by the Zoning Administrator.

(Ord. C﷓7663 § 36, 1999).

21.44.110 Freestanding/monument signs.

Any self-supporting sign which is either mounted on or between poles (see Section 21.15.2580), or vertically erected at grade (see Section 21.15.2620) shall be referred to as a “freestanding sign”. Freestanding signs are permitted subject to the following provisions:

A. Number.

1. Individual Businesses Or Shopping Centers. Any individual business or a shopping center may display one freestanding sign on a property. For each length of street frontage in excess of three hundred feet (300’), a business or group of businesses may display one additional freestanding sign for each additional three hundred feet (300’), or portion thereof, of street frontage abutting the developed portion of the property occupied by the businesses.

2. Automobile Service Station. In addition to other signs, an automobile service station may display one freestanding sign per street frontage for the display of fuel prices.

B. Area. The permitted area of freestanding signs shall be as provided in Table 44﷓3. No sign shall be permitted to exceed the maximum area indicated, regardless of street frontage.

C. Height. The maximum permitted height of a freestanding sign shall not exceed the limits set forth in Table 44-3. The height of a freestanding sign is measured from grade to the highest point of the sign, except that the height of the freeway-oriented freestanding signs, where the freeway elevation is greater than the base of the sign, may be measured from the grade of the freeway lane nearest the sign not including on and off ramps to the highest point of the sign, as illustrated in Figure 44-1.

D. Copy. Sign copy on each face of a freestanding sign shall be limited to the identification of a business and a total of two (2) principal products or services sold on the premises. A freestanding sign that identifies a group of businesses or shopping center may include only the name of the business area or the name of the principal tenant of the business area on any one freestanding sign. However, automobile service stations may also include on each freestanding sign face the price of fuel being sold on the premises. Fuel price displays may contain fifteen (15) square feet of sign area per street frontage in addition to that otherwise permitted.

E. Location.

1. No freestanding sign shall be located closer to any interior side property line than twenty-five feet (25’). Lots smaller than seventy-five feet (75’) wide shall place a freestanding sign no closer to any interior side property line than one-third (1/3) the width of the property measured at the street frontage, as indicated in Figure 44-2. Lots adjoining freeway or railroad rights-of-way may locate a freestanding sign on the property line adjoining such right-of-way.

2. Where more than one freestanding sign is used for one business or group of businesses, the minimum distance between two (2) freestanding signs shall be one hundred feet (100’).

F. Projection.

1. No freestanding sign shall overhang the property line adjoining a public right-of-way unless approval has been granted by the Department of Public Works.

2. The vertical clearance from grade to the lowest point of the sign is eight feet (8’) for pedestrian use and fourteen feet (14’) for vehicular use.

G. Supporting Device. Any angle iron or secondary support shall be enclosed in a form constructed of impermeable material, such that the angle iron or secondary support is not visible.

(Ord. C-7776 § 5, 2001; Ord. C-7500 § 12, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.115 Electronic message center signs.

Electronic message center signs are permitted for any individual business or shopping or convention center use that is comprised of five (5) or more acres of land or has a minimum building area of one hundred fifty thousand (150,000) square feet.

A. Conditional Use Permit. All electronic message center signs shall be required to obtain a conditional use permit prior to the issuance of a building permit. Refer to Chapter 21.52--Conditional Uses, for special development standards, findings and requirements.

B. Number. The above-mentioned businesses are allowed to have one electronic message center sign on site in lieu of two (2) freestanding signs.

C. Area. The permitted area for electronic message center signs shall be the same as that permitted for freestanding signs (see Table 44-3--Permitted Dimensions of Freestanding Signs).

No electronic message center sign shall be permitted to exceed the maximum area indicated in Table 44-3, unless the property/business owner wishes to trade-off additional permitted freestanding signs and add that cumulative sign area to the electronic message center sign. The maximum cumulative area permitted for an electronic message center sign shall be as that provided in Table 44-4--Maximum Cumulative Sign Area and Height Permitted for Electronic Message Center Signs.

D. Height. The maximum permitted height of an electronic message center sign shall not exceed the limits set forth in Table 44-4. The height of such signs is measured from grade (see Section 21.15.1190) to the highest point of the sign. The exception shall be for freeway-oriented electronic message center signs, where the freeway elevation is greater than the base of the sign, which may be measured from the grade of the freeway lane nearest the sign (not including on and off ramps) to the highest point of the sign, as illustrated in Figure 44-1.

E. Copy. Fixed/permanent sign copy on each face of an electronic message center sign shall be limited to the identification of the business, shopping or convention center name or icon and two (2) major tenants or products or services. The fixed/permanent sign copy shall not flash and shall be included in the overall sign area as indicated on Table 44-3 or Table 44-4, respectively.

F. Location.

1. No electronic message center sign shall be located closer to any interior side property line than twenty-five feet (25’) and it shall have a minimum separation of one hundred feet (100’) from a residential district. Lots adjoining freeway or railroad right-of-way may locate a freestanding sign on the property line adjoining such right-of-way.

2. The minimum distance required between a freestanding sign and an electronic message center sign shall be one hundred feet (100’).

G. Projection.

1. No portion of an electronic message center sign shall project into any right-of-way.

2. The vertical clearance from grade to the lowest point of the sign is eight feet (8’) for pedestrian use and fourteen feet (14’) for vehicular use.

(Ord. C-7550 § 11, 1998; Ord. C-7500 § 23, 1997).

Table 44-3
Permitted Dimensions of Freestanding Signs

Type of Freestanding Sign	Permitted Area (sq. ft.) (a)	Maximum Area (sq. ft.)	Maximum Height (feet)
Freeway oriented	3/L.F.	300	40
Regional corridor	2/L.F.	150	25
Major arterial frontage	2/L.F.	150	25
Minor arterial, residential, local, collector street frontage	2/L.F.	100	25
Monument	1/L.F.	100	8
Automobile service station	15 (b)	15 (b)	12

(a) Square feet of sign area permitted per linear foot of frontage along the abutting street.

(b) In addition to the permitted freestanding sign, a price sign is also permitted.

(Ord. C-7500 § 16, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.120 Projecting signs.

Projecting signs are permitted in lieu of freestanding signs subject to the following provisions.

A. Number. A business may display one projecting sign per street frontage or parking lot frontage on an adjacent property.

B. Area. The maximum area of a projecting sign shall not exceed one square foot per linear foot of building frontage from which the sign projects.

C. Height. No projecting sign shall extend above the adjacent eave or parapet line of the roof; or be less than eight feet (8’) above the grade of the adjoining right-of-way.

D. Copy. Sign copy shall be limited to the identification of the business and a total of two (2) principal products or services sold on the premises.

E. Location. No projecting sign shall be located closer to any side property line than one-third (1/3) the width of the street frontage or twenty-five feet (25’), whichever is less. If any portion of a projecting sign is located above a second floor windowsill line, it shall be located a distance away from any such window equal to twice the projection of the sign from the wall in which the window is located.

F. Projection. No projecting sign shall project more than four feet (4’) from the face of the building wall upon which the sign is mounted. If such sign projects into the public right-of-way, then an encroachment permit must be obtained from the Department of Public Works. No sign shall project to a location less than two feet (2’) behind the curb line.

G. Supporting Device. Guy wires may be used for lateral support when fully within the horizontal plane of the sign. Any angle iron or secondary support, other than guy wires, must be enclosed in a form constructed of impermeable material so as not to be visible to pedestrians or motorists.

(Ord. C-7032 § 33, 1992; Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

Table 44-4
Maximum Cumulative Sign Area and Height
Permitted for Electronic Message Center Signs

Type of Sign	Maximum Area (sq. ft.)	Maximum Height (feet)
Freeway oriented	1,000	40
Regional corridor or major arterial frontage	200	25

(Ord. C-7500 § 17, 1997).

21.44.130 Wall signs.

Wall signs are permitted for any business which is fronting on a street, parking lot, public walkway within a mall, or which has exterior building frontage without facing a street, parking lot or mall.

A. Number. One per wall or one per business for buildings with multiple tenants/businesses fronting on a street. In addition to the primary wall sign, secondary wall signs identifying products or services are permitted provided that the cumulative wall sign area does not exceed the allowable limits established in Subsection 21.44.130.B.

B. Area.

1. Wall Facing Street. The total area of all wall signs facing a street shall not exceed one square foot of sign area per linear foot of building wall; provided, that not more than one hundred (100) square feet shall be allowed on any sign facing a residential, local or collector street and not more than two hundred fifty (250) square feet shall be allowed for any sign facing a major or minor arterial.

2. Wall Facing Side Or Rear Yard. The area of permitted wall signs facing side or rear yards shall not exceed one square foot of sign area for each linear foot of building wall.

3. Transference Of Sign Area. Allowed sign area cannot be transferred from one building side to another.

4. Icons And Models. Wall signs in the shape of icons, models, or logos shall be permitted provided that the cumulative wall sign area for all signs does not exceed the allowable limits. To calculate the area of two-dimensional (2-D) signs, the sign’s length and width shall be multiplied. The area of three-dimensional (3-D) signs shall be measured as a longitudinal section of the icon or model.

C. Height. The maximum height of wall signs above grade, to the highest point of the sign shall be as set forth in Table 44-6.

D. Copy. Sign copy shall be limited to the identification of the business and products or services sold on the premises. The total number of signs shall not exceed the allowable limits established in Subsection 21.44.130.A. Copy shall not be placed on the edges of any wall sign.

E. Location. No wall sign shall extend beyond the perimetric limits of the signable area on which it is displayed, nor shall it be displayed above the peak of the roof or the top of the parapet of a building. No sign shall be located upon an architectural protrusion.

F. Projection. The maximum projection shall be fourteen inches (14”). No wall sign shall project over a public alley, driveway, or parking above grade.

(Ord. C-7550 § 12, 1998: Ord. C-7500 § 13, 1997: Ord. C-7064 § 5, 1992: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

Table 44-6
Wall Signs--Maximum Height

Width of Street Right-of-Way Onto Which Business Fronts	Maximum Height (Feet)
80 feet or less	25
81 feet to 110 feet	30
More than 110 feet	35
Building identification sign	No maximum

21.44.140 Awning, marquee/canopy and pylon signs.

Awning and marquee/canopy and pylon signs are permitted for each business located on the ground floor and abutting a street, parking lot or public walkway within a mall, excluding alleys and serviceways. Each awning or marquee/canopy or pylon may display one sign subject to the following provisions:

A. Area. The area of the sign may not exceed forty percent (40%) of the total face of the awning or marquee/canopy or pylon, not to exceed one hundred (100) square feet. The face of the awning shall be measured as shown on Figure 44-4.

B. Projection. The sign may not extend to within two feet (2’) of the curbline.

C. Limits. Marquee/canopy signs shall be contained entirely within the perimetric limits of the fascia of the marquee or canopy.

D. Slope. The face of the marquee, canopy or awning shall slope not more than sixty degrees (60°) from the vertical plane.

E. Additional Signage. In addition to a surface-mounted marquee/canopy sign, a sign which displays the business name only may be mounted on the under surface of the marquee or canopy, provided:

1. The area of the sign does not exceed eight (8) square feet;

2. The clearance from grade is eight feet (8’) for pedestrian use and fourteen feet (14’) for vehicular use;

3. The signs are mounted perpendicular to the building wall; and

4. The signs are located no closer to any side property line than one-third (1/3) the width of the street frontage or twenty-five feet (25’), whichever is less.

(Ord. C-7550 § 13, 1998: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.200 Development standards--Minor signs.

Menu boards, backdrop wall signs, building identification signs, neighborhood identification signs and traffic directional signs shall be considered minor signs subject to the development standards outlined in this Section.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.210 Menu boards.

Menu boards are permitted for drive-through fast food restaurants subject to the following restrictions:

A. Number. In addition to other permitted signs, one freestanding menu board and one wall sign are permitted for each automobile service window.

B. Area. Menu boards shall not contain more than forty (40) square feet in area.

C. Height. Menu boards shall not exceed seven feet (7’) in height above grade.

D. Copy. Menu board shall contain only the business name, the food items and the price of each item. The maximum letter size shall be three inches (3”).

E. Location. Each sign shall be oriented to customers on the site.

(Ord. C-7032 § 34, 1992; Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.220 Backdrop wall signs.

Backdrop wall signs are permitted at the rear or side of an open display business, subject to the following restrictions:

A. Area. The area of the sign shall not exceed five percent (5%) of the area of the wall on which it is placed.

B. Height. The sign shall not exceed twenty feet (20’) in height as measured from the bottom to the top of the sign.

C. Color. The sign may contain any color or colors, but the remaining portion of the advertising wall shall be a neutral color.

D. Location. Backdrop wall signs above sales offices shall not be considered roof signs.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.230 Building identification signs.

A. Commercial Buildings. Commercial building identification signs may be displayed on any building that is composed of one or more businesses and is at least four (4) stories high.

1. Number. One building identification sign is permitted per building face/wall and shall be comprised of the business/building name and/or logo.

2. Area. Commercial building identification signs shall not exceed one and one-half (1½) square feet of sign area per every linear foot of building wall and shall not exceed a maximum of three hundred (300) square feet.

3. Placement. No commercial building identification sign shall extend beyond the perimetric limits of the signable wall area on which it is placed, nor shall it be displayed above the peak of the roof nor the top of the parapet of a building, or below the lower one-third (1/3) of a building on which it is placed.

4. Projection. The maximum projection shall be fourteen inches (14”) from the face of the wall. Any building identification sign projecting over the right-of-way shall be approved by the Director of Public Works.

B. Multifamily Residential Building Identification. Multifamily building identification signs are permitted in the form of a wall sign, a freestanding sign, an awning or a marquee/canopy sign subject to the following restrictions:

1. Number. One sign is permitted for each street on which the building abuts.

2. Design Standards. The manner in which building identification signs may be displayed shall determine the design standards.

a. Wall Sign. The identification sign shall comply with all applicable wall sign provisions of this Chapter, except that the total area shall not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the signable area, nor more than five percent (5%) of the building face, and the maximum height shall not exceed fifteen feet (15’) above grade.

b. Freestanding Sign. The building identification sign shall comply with all applicable freestanding sign provisions of this Chapter, except that the maximum area shall not exceed twenty-seven (27) square feet and the maximum height above grade shall not exceed four feet (4’) above grade.

c. Awning Or Marquee/Canopy Sign. The identification sign shall comply with all applicable awning or marquee/canopy sign provisions of this Chapter.

(Ord. C-7550 § 14, 1998; Ord. C-7500 § 14, 1997: Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.240 Traffic directional signs.

Traffic directional signs, either wall or freestanding, may be displayed as necessary for all land uses. Each sign shall have a maximum area of six (6) square feet, a maximum height of seven feet (7’), and a maximum letter height of five inches (5”). If illuminated, it shall be illuminated by indirect illumination only.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.300 Temporary signs.

Certain classes of signs may be erected as temporary signs subject to the following regulations.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.310 Promotional activity signs.

Promotional activity signs, as defined in Section 21.15.2720 of this Title, are permitted, provided that:

A. A promotional activity banner or banners shall not exceed one square foot of banner area for each linear foot of building street frontage and shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet, whichever is less.

B. A sign permit for promotional activity banners, unless otherwise specified, shall be valid for only sixty (60) days and shall be renewable for another sixty (60) day period, not less than thirty (30) days after the end of the first sixty (60) day period, in any calendar year.

C. A sign permit for a promotional activity banner sign used as a real estate sign shall be allowed during the period the property is offered for sale or rent. Such signs shall not be established unless the property shall be available within not less than thirty (30) days. Promotional activity banner signs used as real estate signs shall comply with the applicable provisions of Table 44-1 of Section 21.44.070.

D. Street banners and banners hung across a public street should be approved by the City Manager as provided in Section 18.56.050 of the Municipal Code.

E. A sign permit for a pennant or pennants shall be limited to ninety (90) days and shall not be renewable. Pennants shall be limited to not more than one square foot for each pennant.

F. A sign permit for a balloon or balloons shall be limited to ninety (90) days and shall not be renewable. Balloons shall be limited to not more than one square foot of balloon area, measured as a longitudinal section of the balloon, for each linear foot of building street frontage, and to not more than one hundred (100) square feet, whichever is less. Balloons shall not be displayed at a height in excess of the height of the building to which they are attached or for which they serve as advertising.

G. A sign for grand opening promotional activities shall be allowed for ninety (90) days, and the permit is not renewable. The promotional activity banner sign permitted in Section 21.44.310 shall not be affected by the issuance of a grand opening sign permit during the same calendar year. The size of a grand opening banner shall not exceed the size specified in Subsection 21.44.310.A.

H. Promotional signs shall not be in a condition of disrepair. Disrepair shall include torn, faded or sagging signs.

I. Vehicle sales businesses shall be exempt from these limitations on promotional activity signs but shall comply with special standards to be adopted by the Planning Commission.

(Ord. C-7629 § 1, 1999; Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.320 Political signs.

Political signs, other than those that qualify as exempt signs, shall be permitted according to the applicable provisions for wall, projecting, freestanding, or backdrop wall signs except:

A. Political signs may be made of paper or cloth;

B. Only one standard sign permit shall be required for all non-exempt political signs;

C. Political signs must be removed not more than five (5) days after the election for which they were placed; and

D. The candidate or authorized representative shall sign an affidavit assuring the removal of the sign.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.330 Subdivision signs.

Subdivision signs advertising the initial sale or lease of residential units within a single contiguous grouping comprised of fifteen or more dwelling units, or fifteen or more lots, are permitted, subject to the following regulations:

A. Display Period. A subdivision sign may be displayed during the period of construction and for a period not to exceed six months from the date which eighty percent of the units have received certificate of occupancy, or until all of the units or lots have been sold or leased, whichever occurs first.

B. Permitted Sign Types. Only non-illuminated, freestanding signs are permitted.

C. Number. One sign is allowed, plus one additional sign for each fifty dwelling units or lots in the subdivision, or one plus one for each five acres in the subdivision, whichever is less.

D. Sign Area and Height. The size of a subdivision sign shall not exceed two hundred square feet, and the height shall not exceed fifteen feet, measured from grade to the highest point of signs.

(Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

21.44.400 Nonconforming signs.

It is the intent of this section to recognize that the eventual elimination of existing on-premises signs that do not conform to this chapter is as important to citywide aesthetic and health, safety and welfare as is the prohibition of new signs that would violate the provisions of this chapter. It is also recognized that nonconforming signs should be eliminated as expeditiously and fairly as possible in a manner that avoids any reasonable invasion of established property rights.

A. Continuation of Use. Subject to the termination schedule set forth in Subsections 21.44.400B through 21.44.400F, any nonconforming on-premises sign may be continued in operation and maintained after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title, provided that nonconforming signs shall not be:

1. Changed to another nonconforming sign; or

2. Structurally altered so as to extend the useful life of the sign; or

3. Expanded; or

4. Reestablished after damage or destruction of more than fifty percent of the sign value at the time of such damage or destruction. The copy on non-conforming signs may be changed without a sign permit and without affecting their nonconforming status, provided the content of the new copy is consistent with the provisions of this code and a building permit is not required to change the copy.

B. Amortization.

1. Permanent nonconforming signs shall be removed or brought into compliance with the provisions of this chapter pursuant to the following regulations: After July 7, 1982, whenever there is a change in the business license for the owner or lessee of a property on which there is a permanent nonconforming sign or signs, the nonconforming sign or signs shall be removed or brought into compliance with the provisions of this chapter within one year of the effective date of the new owner’s or lessee’s business license.

2. A time extension to the one-year compliance period of up to five years may be granted by the zoning administrator upon a written request from the owner or business licensee. Such an extension shall only be granted upon a finding that:

a. The sign is in sound structural condition and is attractively maintained; and

b. The sign is visually compatible with the building and the business community.

3. Historic signs designated as landmarks as provided in Chapter 2.63 of the Municipal Code shall be exempt from the amortization provision.

C. Wall Painted Signs. Nonconforming signs which are painted directly onto walls shall be painted out, or brought into compliance with the provisions of this chapter when there is a change in business ownership or lessee of the property. The director of planning and building shall notify the property owner of any property subject to an inspection by the department of any such sign nonconformity. The owner shall notify any prospective purchaser or lessee of the existence of any such nonconformity and the amortization provisions of Section 21.54.420.

Historic signs designated as landmarks pursuant to Chapter 2.63 of the Municipal Code shall be exempt from this provision.

D. Temporary and Portable Signs. Temporary or portable nonconforming signs which were not removed or brought into compliance on or prior to August 25, 1978, shall be deemed illegal after that date and shall be removed immediately.

E. Abandoned Signs. All abandoned signs shall be removed on or prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title.

F. Illegal Signs. All illegal signs shall be removed or made to conform to the provisions of this chapter on or prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this title.

(Ord. C-7032 § 35, 1992; Ord. C-6595 § 12, 1989; Ord. C-6533 § 1 (part), 1988).

Figure 44-4

<< previous | next >>