Bell Gardens City Zoning Code

Such activity shall be restricted to the ground floor of the building or buildings and shall not occupy more than 25 percent of said ground floor area.

Not more than five employees shall be engaged in such activity.

A commercial appearance shall be maintained by office or window display space or both, across all the street or highway frontage of the building or buildings, except doorways, to a depth of not less than two feet.

Any portion of the building or buildings devoted to such activity shall be not nearer than 50 feet to any agricultural or residential zone.

The building shall be so constructed, the machinery and equipment shall be so installed and maintained, and the activity shall be so conducted, that all noise, vibration, dust, odor and all other objectionable factors shall be confined or reduced to the extent that no annoyance or injury will result to persons or property in the vicinity.

Any such activity shall be conducted wholly within a completely enclosed building.

Where a conflict in interpretation occurs regarding application of these provisions to any specific case, the commission shall make such determination.

One two-family or two one-family dwellings and accessory uses incidental thereto.

Accessory agricultural buildings where used primarily for agricultural purposes, including, but not limited to: barns, silos, chicken houses, rabbit hutches and roadside stands.

Electrical distribution and transmission substations.

Gas measurement, pumping and meter and control stations.

Telephone repeater stations.

Temporary uses permitted in this title for a period not to exceed 30 days.

Other similar uses which, in the opinion of the commission, will not generate a greater volume of traffic than the uses enumerated in this section.

Said improvements shall be completed within the time specified in the agreement to improve, except that the public works department may grant such additional time as it deems necessary if, in the opinion of said public works department, a good and sufficient reason exists for the delay.

Such contract shall be accompanied by a deposit with the city council of a sum of money or negotiable bonds or savings and loan certificates or shares in an amount which in the opinion of the public works department equals the cost thereof. If savings and loan certificates or shares are deposited, the owners thereof shall assign such certificates or shares to the city and such deposit and assignment shall be subject to all provisions and conditions of Article III E of said Ordinance No. 4099.

If the estimated cost of the improvements equals or exceeds $1,000, in lieu of such deposit the applicant may file with the city council a corporate surety bond guaranteeing the adequate completion of all of the improvements, in a penal sum equal to such estimated cost.

Upon the failure of said responsible person to complete any improvements within the time specified in an agreement, the city council may, upon notice in writing of not less than 10 days served upon the person, firm or corporation signing such contract or upon notice in writing of not less than 20 days served by registered mail addressed to the last known address of the person, firm, or corporation signing such contract, determine that said improvement work or any part thereof is incomplete and may cause to be forfeited to the city such portion of deposits or bonds given for the faithful performance of said work, or may cash any instrument of credit so deposited in such amount as may be necessary to complete the improvement work.

The commission may grant a modification to the provisions of this chapter and relieve the applicant either from compliance with all or a portion of the provisions thereof if he finds:

The public works department may grant a modification to the provisions of this chapter and relieve the applicant either from compliance with all or a portion of the provisions thereof if he finds:

All requests for modification shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 9.58 BGMC, Site Plan Review.

All storage shall be conducted within an enclosed building or within an area completely enclosed with a solid masonry wall of not less than six feet nor more than seven feet in height.

Any opening in the wall shall be equipped with a solid gate of not less than six feet in height.

Any gates required by this section shall be kept closed, except during regular business hours.

Automobile Monitoring. The owner/operator of all activity associated with the automobile use, service, and/or repair shall display a copy of an invoice showing the dates of when the automobile was submitted for repair and estimated date of completion. The invoice shall be displayed where visible on the automobiles temporarily stored, queued, recently served/serviced by the business, or if a lien has been placed. Dates of invoices shall not exceed a maximum of 60 days.

Such storage shall be completely enclosed by a solid decorative masonry wall no less than six feet in height and all articles stored therein must be completely shielded from view outside the property. (The commission may approve the substitution of a decorative fence or masonry wall or any combination thereof where, in the opinion of the commission, such a fence or wall will adequately comply with the provisions of this section.)

Storage area shall not be open to the public.

Sales operations shall not be conducted on or at storage areas.

Storage shall not produce any objectionable noise or odors.

Storage shall not be located on a parking area, drive aisle, or pedestrian or vehicular access.

Storage shall not conflict with fire department outdoor storage regulations.

All inspection, repair, servicing, and testing of automobiles outside of an enclosed building is prohibited.

Measures of Building Height on Sloping Terrain. In any zone, where a building is erected on sloping terrain, the height of the building shall be measured from the highest adjoining ground surface level at the base of the building. Above this measuring point, the building may not exceed the height limit prescribed in the zone, nor contain more than the permitted number of stories. With this top level as the high point above all other portions of the same building, any portion of such building rising from a lower part of the slope may have one and one-half stories more than the number of stories permitted in the zone.

Building Height on Other Than Sloping Terrain. Where a building is erected on land not classified as sloping terrain, the height of the building shall be measured from the ground level grade.

Structures Above Height Limit or Adjusted Height Limit. The following structures may be established above the height limit permitted in the zone, except that such structures shall not be allowed above the height limit for the purpose of providing additional floor area. The height of such structures need not be included in measuring the height of a building supporting said structure:

Adherence to Designated Floor-to-Area Ratio. All buildings hereafter designed or erected, and existing buildings which may be reconstructed, altered, moved or enlarged, may not exceed the floor area ratio indicated for the zone in which said buildings are or may be located except as otherwise provided in subsection (B) of this section.

Buildings Located on Zone Boundary Lines. Where buildings hereafter designed or erected, and existing buildings which may be reconstructed, altered, moved or enlarged, are or may be located on a lot or parcel of land divided into two or more zones, then such buildings shall be established in compliance with any prescribed floor area ratio, or the average floor area ratio if more than one ratio applies. Where a height limit applies in one zone and a floor area ratio in another, such building shall be established in compliance with the less restrictive regulation.

Floor Area Underground. Floor area included in subsurface floors of a building shall not be counted or included in any determinations based on floor area ratio or lot coverage.

Chimneys. However, the chimney may not be larger in horizontal area than 20 square feet where the projection takes place.

Emergency/Safety Equipment. Any equipment required by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration); provided, that such equipment is properly screened to the satisfaction of the community development director.

Maximum Fence, Wall and Hedge Height in Required Side and Rear Yards.

Maximum Fence, Wall and Hedge Height in Required Front Yards.

Sites occupied by an agency of the federal, state, county or city government; or

Where required by any other ordinance, statute or law, or regulation of the state of California or any other agency where such regulation exceeds the minimum standards of this chapter; or

Where topographic features, subdivision plans, or other conditions create an unnecessary hardship or unreasonable situation making it impractical to require compliance with the fence, wall or hedge provisions.

For the purpose of this chapter, "permitted fencing material" shall mean the following:

Razor and barbed wire shall be prohibited in all zones.

All material must be compatible with the scale and architecture of the site and surroundings. The determination of compatibility shall be left to the discretion of the community development director unless otherwise appealed.

New wall construction on all property subject to the city's jurisdiction must be approved by the city planner.

If more than 50 percent of a wall is proposed to be replaced, the standards of this section shall apply.

All new walls must be constructed of decorative masonry (e.g., split face, slump stone, etc.) or painted to complement the structures on the site to the satisfaction of the city planner.

All walls must have a decorative cap.

Decorative pilasters or other forms of articulation (e.g., insets, landscaped pockets, etc.) must be provided for a minimum of every 15 feet of continuous wall that is visible from a public right-of-way or park.

All new residential subdivisions and commercial and industrial development shall be required to have masonry perimeter walls, which shall be subject to the provisions of this chapter.

Whenever a conflict between these provisions and those of the California Building Code occurs, the most stringent regulations shall apply.

Materials.

Dimensions. Three feet shall be the minimum horizontal dimension of any required landscaped area or any form of fixed planter box.

Screening. Where plans are indicated for screening, such screening shall consist of the use of evergreen shrubs, closely spaced and maintained at substantially the specified height of any required fences, walls or hedges.

Materials.

Separation between Fence/Wall/Hedge and Property Line. Where a wall is required to be set back from a lot line, the open area between said lot line and said wall shall be landscaped and permanently maintained.

Public properties or public projects including community facilities, parks and playgrounds.

Registered state, federal or local historic site.

Botanical gardens, wholesale or retail plant nurseries, or community gardens.

Vegetative Plant Materials. Vegetative plant materials installed in parkway areas shall meet the following criteria:

Nonvegetative Materials. The use of nonvegetative ground cover or paving materials may be installed in the parkway subject to approval of an encroachment permit by the department of public works and shall comply with the following requirements:

Irrigation. An encroachment permit is not required for irrigation systems installed in residential parkway areas, provided there are no continuously pressurized (main) lines or valves of any sort installed within the public right-of-way. A permit is required when/if irrigation valves or continuously pressurized lines are installed. When irrigation systems are employed, the use of subsurface drip irrigation or other low-flow water distribution system to minimize wasteful overspray and overwatering is required. Spray heads shall be of pop-up type, fully retractable to be flush with the adjacent surface when not in use, and placed no closer than 24 inches to any hard-paved, adjacent surface.

Storm Water Capture Systems. The city encourages residents to consider utilizing parkway areas to capture storm water runoff when and where possible and appropriate. Storm water capture systems typically treat/clean storm water biologically prior to its continuance into the storm drain systems and may help storm water infiltrate into the subgrade, thereby reducing or minimizing storm water runoff. These types of parkway improvements require approval of permits issued by the department of public works.

Nonconforming Artificial Turf. Artificial turf existing in a parkway prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter shall be considered nonconforming. Any changes to an existing artificial turf installation in a parkway, with the exception of repairs, shall be a violation of the nonconforming status and the parkway will be subject to this chapter.

Turf Standards.

Installation Standards.

Maintenance Standards. Property owners shall maintain artificial turf areas in a manner which includes:

Review and Approval Required. Use of artificial turf is subject to approval of a site plan review by the community development department prior to installation. Application for site plan review shall be filed with the community development department and shall include the following information:

Subdivisions. "Required area" shall mean the area of a lot or parcel of land shown as a part of a subdivision for purposes of sale when recorded as a final map or on file as a record of survey map approved as provided in the Subdivision Map Act or the code of the city.

Preexisting Lots. Where a person, who neither owns nor has a right of possession to any contiguous parcel of land, has the right of possession to a lot or parcel of land by virtue of a duly recorded deed or contract of sale, "required area" shall mean the area of said lot or parcel of land; provided, that the deed or contract of sale, by which such right of possession was separated, has been recorded prior to the adoption of the ordinance codified in this title, any previous ordinance or any subsequent ordinance imposing area requirements on said lot or parcel of land.

Parcel of Land Divided by Boundary Lines. Where a parcel of land, which would otherwise have been shown as one lot, is divided into two or more lots because of a city boundary line, "required area" shall mean the total area of said parcel of land.

Land Division Under Land Title Law. Where a parcel of land, which would otherwise have been shown as one lot, is divided into two or more lots because of a line drawn between land the title to which was registered under the land title law (Torrens Title) and land the title to which was not so registered, "required area" shall mean the total area of said parcel of land.

Easements on Required Area. A lot or parcel of land subject to a street or highway easement or other public or private easement where the owner of the servient tenement does not have the right to use the entire surface area of the lot or parcel of land may be accepted as having the required area as indicated by the zoning symbol; provided, that the required area for said lot or parcel of land is one acre or more and the area covered by any such easement includes not more than 10 percent of the required area indicated by the zoning symbol, but in no event shall the area not subject to such easement be less than 40,000 square feet.

Corner Cut-Off Areas. A corner lot or parcel of land subject to a street or highway easement for a corner cut-off, where the owner of the servient tenement does not have the right to use the entire surface area of the lot or parcel of land, shall be considered to have the required area as indicated by the zoning symbol; provided, that the required area for said lot or parcel of land is less than one acre and the area included in the corner cut-off does not exceed five percent of the required area indicated by the zoning symbol.

Increased Area Required. Where, in this title, a particular use is permitted only when established on a lot or parcel of land having an actual area greater than the area indicated as required by the zoning designation, then such higher requirements shall prevail for the lot or parcel of land upon which such use is located.

Creation of a Lot or Parcel Having Less Than Required Area. Except as otherwise provided in this title, a person shall not divide any lot or parcel of land, and shall not convey any lot or parcel of land or any portion thereof, if as a result of such conveyance the area of any lot or parcel of land so reduced, or a lot or parcel of land so created, is in violation of the requirements of this title.

Use of a Lot or Parcel Having Less Than Required Area. Where a portion of a lot or parcel of land is sold or transferred, and as a result of such sale or transfer one or more parcels are created of such an area as to no longer conform to the requirements of this title, then in the determination of the permissible number and location of any buildings on any lot or parcel of land so created by such sale or transfer, the portion sold or transferred and the remainder shall be considered as one parcel.

Rescission of Agreements Made Contrary to Lot Area Provisions. Any deed of conveyance, sale or contract to sell made contrary to the provisions of this title with regard to lot area is voidable at the sole option of the grantee, buyer, or person contracting to purchase, or his heirs, personal representative, or trustee in insolvency or bankruptcy, within one year after the date of execution of said deed or conveyance, sale, or contract to sell. However, the deed of conveyance, sale or contract to sell is binding upon any assignee or transferee of the grantee, buyer or person contracting to purchase other than those enumerated above, and is also binding upon the grantor, vendor, or person contracting to sell, his assignee, heir or devisee.

Required Area Reduced by Public Use. If a lot or parcel of land has not less than the required area and after creation of such lot or parcel of land a part thereof is acquired for a public use other than for street or highway purposes, in any manner including dedication, condemnation, or purchase, and if the remainder of such lot or parcel of land has not less than 80 percent of the area indicated by the number which follows the zoning symbol, such remainder shall be considered as having the required area as established by this title.

Required Area Reduced for Street or Highway Purposes. If a lot or parcel of land has not less than the required area, as required in this title, and after the creation of such lot or parcel of land a part thereof is acquired for street or highway purposes exclusively, in any manner including dedication, condemnation or purchase, and if the remainder of such lot or parcel of land has not less than 75 percent of the required area, then such remainder shall be considered as having the required area, provided the remaining portion of said lot or parcel of land has an area of not less than 2,500 square feet, or an area as is otherwise provided herein. The commission, without notice or hearing, may approve a reduction of lot area to 75 percent of the required area where the remaining parcel would have less than 2,500 square feet, but not less than 2,000 square feet, where topographic features, subdivision design or other conditions create an unnecessary hardship or unreasonable limitation making it obviously impractical to comply with the stated minimum.

Redivision of Lots or Parcels with Less Than Required Area. Where two or more adjoining lots or parcels of land are deemed to have the required area under the provisions of this title, but one or more of said lots or parcels of land has an area less than that indicated by the number that follows the zoning designation or, if no number follows the zoning symbol, less than the area designated in this title, said lots or parcels of land may be redivided into the same number or a lesser number of lots or parcels of land. The owner may file and the commission may approve such redivisions subject to the provisions of Division 6 of this title, Subdivision Regulations, if:

Minimum Street or Highway Frontage. Each lot or parcel of land shall have a street or highway frontage of not less than 50 feet when the front property line coincides with the street or highway line unless otherwise provided in subsection (B) of this section, Identification or Designation of Lot Lines in Doubt.

Identification or Designation of Lot Lines in Doubt. Where the identification or designation of the front, side or rear lot line is in doubt, as in the following situations, the commission shall determine the identity or designation of the lot lines:

Required Width Reduced by Public Use. If a lot or parcel of land has not less than the required width and after creation of such lot or parcel of land a portion of its width is acquired for public use in any manner including, but not limited to, dedication, condemnation or purchase, and if the remainder of such lot or parcel of land has not less than 70 percent of the required width, but in no event less than 40 feet, such remainder shall be considered as having the required width.

Modification of Lot Widths. The commission may, without notice or hearing, grant a modification of lot width regulations where topographic features, subdivision plans, or other conditions create an unnecessary hardship or unreasonable situation making it impractical to require compliance with the lot width provisions. All modified lots or parcels of land shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 9.58 BGMC, Site Plan Review.

Creation of a Parcel Having Less Than Required Width. Except as otherwise provided in this title, a person shall not divide any lot or parcel of land, and shall not convey any lot or parcel of land or any portion thereof, if as a result of such conveyance the width of any lot or parcel of land so reduced, or a lot or parcel of land so created, is in violation of the requirements of this title.

Rescission of Agreements Made Contrary to Lot Width Provisions. Any deed of conveyance, sale or contract to sell made contrary to the provisions of this title with regard to lot width is voidable at the sole option of the grantee, buyer, or person contracting to purchase, or his heirs, personal representative, or trustee in solvency or bankruptcy, sale, or contract to sell. However, the deed of conveyance, sale, or contract to sell is binding upon any assignee or transferee of the grantee, buyer or person contracting to purchase, other than those enumerated above, and is also binding upon the grantor, vendor, or person contracting to sell, his assignee, heir or devisee.

Contiguous Narrow Lots. Where, prior to an area being zoned R-1 or R-2, lots exist not less than 100 feet deep but less than 50 feet wide, if two or more such contiguous lots, or one or more such contiguous lots and one or more lots also contiguous thereto which have a depth of not less than 100 feet, have a total frontage of not less than 50 feet, such lots may be treated and considered as one parcel of land. Determination of the number of dwelling units permitted may be based on the total permitted if said lots were developed separately subject to all other requirements of this title.

Redivision of Lots or Parcels with Less Than Required Width. Where two or more adjoining lots or parcels of land are deemed to have the required width under the provisions of this title, but one or more of said lots or parcels of land has a width of less than that designated in this title, said lots or parcels of land may be redivided into the same number or a lesser number of lots or parcels of land. The owner may file and the commission may approve such redivision subject to the provisions of Chapter 9.58 BGMC, Site Plan Review, if:

Location.

Approval of off-site parking facilities shall be subject to the following:

Prohibited Parking Types. The following types of parking spaces shall be prohibited as required parking:

Ingress and Egress. Required parking and loading facilities shall be provided with easily accessible and adequate ingress and egress from and to a street, highway or alley as provided in this chapter.

Reduction or Encroachment.

For Uses on Separate Lots or Parcel of Land. Required parking facilities may be provided collectively for two or more buildings or uses located on separate lots or parcels of land; provided, that the total area of such facilities does not equal less than the combined requirements for the individual uses.

For Uses with Varying Requirements Located on the Same Lot or Parcel of Land.

Under the same ownership as the lots or parcels of land containing the use or uses to be served; or

Under joint ownership composed of the same owners of the lots or parcels of land containing the use or uses to be served; or

Whenever required parking or loading facilities are located on a lot or parcel of land which is not in the same or joint ownership as the lot or parcel of land containing the use or uses to be served, then, as a prerequisite to the issuance of the required building permit or certificate of occupancy, the owner or owners of said lot or parcel of land on which required parking or loading facilities are to be provided shall record an agreement in the office of the county recorder of Los Angeles County, California, as a covenant running with the land for the benefit of the city, providing that such owner or owners and their heirs, assigns, or successors in interest will continue to maintain said parking or loading facilities so long as the use or uses to be served remain in existence.

Thresholds for Conformance to Parking Requirements. Expansion of use with nonconforming parking.

Exceptions.

Parking and Loading Facilities Matrix.

Bicycle Parking Spaces and Bicycle Facilities Matrix.

EV Parking Facilities Matrix.

Consideration of Fractional Remainders. When a fractional figure is found as a remainder in computations made to determine required off-street parking facilities, said fraction shall be construed as a whole number.

Parking in Buildings. Where required parking computations are based on floor area, floor space devoted to parking within a building, or necessary interior driveways and ramps thereto, shall be excluded. A building, or portion of a building, devoted exclusively to parking shall have no off-street parking space requirements.

Parking Space Dimensions. The minimum size of required parking spaces shall be:

Maneuvering Areas Adjacent to Parking Spaces. Maneuvering areas adjacent to parking spaces shall be arranged in accordance with the diagrams contained in this section, except that back-up clearances for residential parking spaces shall be a minimum of 26 feet from any property line, structure, or obstacle to allow for maneuvering.

Standards Chart (Nine-Foot by 20-Foot Spaces).

Diagrams (Nine-Foot by 20-Foot Spaces).

Ramp Standards.

Required Driveways, Other Than Maneuvering Areas.

Turn-Around Areas. Any required garage, carport or parking space situated more than 100 feet from the street or highway from which access is taken, and served by a driveway or aisle less than 20 feet in width, shall have a motor vehicle turn-around area adjacent thereto.

Vertical Clearance. Driveways, maneuvering aisles, turn-around areas and ramps shall have a vertical clearance of seven and one-half feet for their entire length and width.

Modification. The community development director or city engineer may, without notice or hearing, grant a modification of the parking space layout, driveways, ramps, maneuvering aisles or turn-around areas required by this section where topographic features, subdivision plans, or other conditions create an unnecessary hardship or unreasonable situation, making it impractical to require compliance with said requirements. All requests for modification shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 9.58 BGMC, Site Plan Review.

Required parking for six or more motor vehicles shall be arranged to permit vehicular traffic to move into and out of the parking area without the backing of any motor vehicle onto a street or highway.

One-way driveways, ramps, and aisles shall have directional markings to indicate and assure one-way circulation.

Parking areas, driveways, maneuvering aisles, ramps and turn-around areas shall be kept free and clear of obstructions at all times.

Paving. All required parking spaces, maneuvering areas and any driveways used for access thereto shall be paved with:

Marking of Parking Spaces. Motor vehicle parking spaces shall be permanently and clearly marked with paint or other easily distinguishable material, except spaces located in a garage or carport.

Bumper Guards or Wheel Stops. Bumper guards or wheel stops, where appropriate, shall be provided for all motor vehicle parking spaces, except spaces established in a garage. No motor vehicle shall overhang a public right-of-way.

Walls.

Landscaping.

Lighting. Lighting of outdoor parking areas shall be arranged to prevent glare or direct illumination in any adjacent residential or agricultural zone.

Carports Opening to Street in Residential Areas. Carports or other parking spaces not fully enclosed, opening to, or facing the front property line or side property line adjacent to a street shall be prohibited.

Maintenance. Parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering aisles, and turn-around areas shall be kept free of dust and litter at all times, and markings, paving walls, light standards, and all other facilities shall be permanently maintained.

Bicycle Parking Spaces and Facilities.

EV Parking Spaces and Facilities.

A site plan shall be submitted to the planning commission, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 9.58 BGMC, Site Plan Review, prior to the establishment of any required parking facilities for 10 or more motor vehicles. Said plan shall contain a detailed parking arrangement, accurately dimensioned, showing individual parking spaces not less than nine feet by 20 feet in size, aisles and driveways indicating adequate ingress and egress.

For required parking facilities having less than 10 spaces where no site plan has been submitted, or where the detailed parking arrangement required in subsection (A) of this section is inadequate to accurately compute parking spaces, and the planning commission so finds, required parking spaces shall be determined on the basis of 400 square feet of usable lot area per motor vehicle.

Required loading facilities shall be located on the same lot or parcel of land as the use served.

The minimum area required for a loading space shall be not less than 250 square feet where the gross floor area of all buildings on the lot or parcel of land is not more than 20,000 square feet.

The minimum area required for a loading space shall be not less than 500 square feet where the gross floor area of all buildings on the lot or parcel of land is more than 20,000 square feet and not more than 50,000 square feet.

The minimum area required for a loading space shall be not less than 750 square feet where the gross floor area of all buildings on a lot or parcel of land exceeds 50,000 square feet.

The minimum required loading area shall be not less than 10 feet in width and 25 feet in length, and shall have an unobstructed height of not less than 14 feet.

The required loading area shall be accessible from a street, highway or alley.

The planning commission may, without notice or hearing, grant a modification of the loading facilities required by this section where topographic features, subdivision plans, or other conditions create an unnecessary hardship or unreasonable situation making it impractical to require compliance with said requirements. All requests for modification shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 9.58 BGMC, Site Plan Review.

Establish regulations governing signs and other advertising media within the various zone classifications of the city, and to expressly prohibit all signs and other advertising of any type whatsoever except as herein specifically permitted. This chapter shall not regulate the construction and/or structural phases of signs and other advertising, which are regulated by the city building laws.

Recognize and strongly subscribe to the right to advertise, and to keep such right within reasonable boundaries consistent with goals and objectives of the community by restraining its image, character, community design, and the economic advantages which rest largely on the quality of the city's appearance. Advertising must be balanced between the right to advertise and the right of the community to be protected against a visual and public trumpeting of overbearing commercialism. In order to protect the best interests of the community, the regulations contained in this chapter will prevent the invasion, abuse and intrusion of blatant commercialism that is not conducive to manmade and natural beauty and the environmental dignity of the city.

Sign Permit Required. A sign permit shall be required to erect, construct, alter, paint, relocate or reconstruct any sign within the city. Sign permits shall be issued by the city community development department.

Building Permit Required. In addition to a sign permit, issuance of a building permit may also be required. This determination shall be made by the building and safety division of the community development department.

Application. Application for a sign permit shall be submitted to the community development department for review by the city. Submittal of a completed application shall include scaled and dimensioned drawings of the proposed sign, which include but are not limited to the following elements: size, height, location, letter type, advertising message, colors, materials, method or type of lighting and such other information as may be required to assure compliance with all appropriate regulations of the city.

Issuance. The community development director or his authorized deputy shall issue a sign permit for the erection, construction, alteration, painting, relocation, or reconstruction of a sign whenever an application therefor has been properly submitted and approved in compliance with all appropriate laws and regulations of the city. Every sign permit issued by the director or his authorized deputy shall expire and become null and void if the work authorized by such sign permit has not been completed within 180 days or within such time period as may be authorized. The director may, in writing, suspend or revoke a sign permit issued under provisions of this chapter whenever the sign permit is issued on the basis of a material omission or misstatement of fact, or in violation of any ordinance or any of the provisions of these regulations.

Referral to Commission. The community development director may refer signs which otherwise comply with the standards set forth in these regulations to the planning commission for their review and approval, if the community development director determines that the sign(s) have not been appropriately designed, located, installed, resulted in sign clutter, or would otherwise be contrary to the purpose and intent of these regulations and cause a detrimental effect on adjacent and surrounding property.

Effect of Issuance. No permit for a sign issued hereunder shall be deemed to constitute permission or authorization to maintain a public or private nuisance, nor shall any permit issued hereunder constitute a defense in an action to abate a nuisance.

Fees. Sign permits shall be subject to such fees as may be established by resolution of the city council.

Inspection. The applicant shall notify the community development department upon completion of the installation of work for which the permits were issued.

Appeals. Any applicant aggrieved by the decision of the community development director regarding the issuance of a sign permit may appeal the decision to the planning commission. Upon written request, the community development department will schedule the appeal for review and determination by the planning commission. If the decision of the planning commission is not considered to be satisfactory, a final appeal may be brought before the city council for a final determination within 10 days after a written notice of appeal with the city clerk. The city council may affirm, modify or reverse the action of the commission. The decision of the city council will be final.

Purpose and Intent. Electronic billboards are recognized as a legitimate form of commercial advertising in the city; however, the size, number, location, and illumination of electronic billboards can have significant influence on the city's visual character and quality of life and can, without appropriate controls, create or contribute to visual blight conditions. The purpose and intent of this section are to allow for development of modern forms of billboards in a planned manner within the electronic billboard overlay district (EBOD) in accordance with the regulations and standards established herein. In addition, the purpose and intent of this section are also to provide for the voluntary relocation and replacement of conforming and nonconforming billboards to electronic billboards within the electronic billboard overlay district ("EBOD") in accordance with the regulations and standards set forth herein.

General Requirements.

Physical Requirements.

Operational Requirements.

The requirements set forth under subsections (B), (C), and (D) of this section shall be in addition to any other conditions and requirements contained in the agreement, provided they are not in conflict. If any condition or requirement imposed in an agreement conflicts with the general requirements set forth in these subsections (B), (C), and (D) of this section, the general requirements of subsections (B), (C), and (D) of this section shall control. For purposes of this subsection, conditions or requirements contained in an agreement that are more restrictive than those contained in the general requirements of subsections (B), (C), and (D) of this section shall not be in conflict.

Application Requirements – Review Procedures.

Corner Lot Signs. On corner lots, the amount of sign area permitted for one street frontage is not transferable to another. A sign erected at the corner and visible from both streets shall not exceed the maximum area allowed for the longest frontage.

Exposed Sign Face Structural Elements Prohibited. All signs except those abutting against a wall, building, or architectural projection of a building shall be double-faced or the rear of any side of a sign face or cabinet visible to the public shall be provided with a flat-surfaced cover to obscure structural members or elements of the sign face or cabinet.

Focus of Direct Light on Residential Property Prohibited. No artificial light of any kind used to illuminate any sign, nor any reflective material, shall be so placed, erected or constructed so as to focus direct light onto adjacent properties.

Structural Supports Limited. More than two supporting columns or visible structural supports are prohibited unless approved by the community development director as an architectural or decorative feature.

Signs Encroaching on Public Right-of-Way. Marquee signs or other signs permitted to encroach over the public right-of-way shall be erected, constructed, or placed in compliance with regulations specified in Chapters 45 and 62 of the building code and all pertinent provisions of this section.

Use of Visible Supports Prohibited. Use of "angle iron" or "I-beams" for visible structural supports is prohibited unless covered with decorative material and approved by the community development director as an architectural or decorative feature. The use of exposed or visible guy wire supports is prohibited.

Street Address Required. In conjunction with the construction, repair, etc., of any sign requiring the issuance of a sign permit, the applicant shall install the numerical street address of his or her business in a prominent location to be visible by passing motorists. This shall be done in compliance with guidelines prepared by the community development department.

On-Site Signs. Unless otherwise specified, all signs constructed shall be on-site signs.

A nonconforming sign shall not be changed to another nonconforming sign.

A nonconforming sign shall not be structurally altered so as to extend its useful life. A sign shall be considered to be structurally altered if the construction materials are physically replaced with new materials. The replacement of face copy in a cabinet-type sign does not constitute structural alteration.

A nonconforming sign shall not be expanded or altered so as to change the size, shape, position, location or method of illumination of the sign, except as provided for under BGMC § 9.40.065, "Electronic billboard regulations and standards."

A nonconforming sign shall not be re-established after discontinuance of the use for 90 days or more. If any use is wholly discontinued for any reason, except pursuant to a valid order of a court of law, for a period of 90 days, it shall be presumed that such use has been abandoned. A use shall be presumed abandoned if the property or structures are vacant or if the occupants are no longer conducting business.

A written notice of this determination will be sent or delivered to the sign owner. The owner shall have 30 days to remove the sign or provide the department of community development with evidence that the use has not been discontinued. The planning commission shall review all evidence and shall determine whether or not the sign is abandoned. All other provisions of enforcement pursuant to Chapter 9.66 BGMC shall apply.

A nonconforming sign shall not be re-established after damage or destruction of more than 50 percent of its replacement value, including destruction by an act of nature.

Directional or Instructional Signs. On-site signs not to exceed six square feet in area per sign which provide only instructions such as identifying hospital emergency, restrooms, public telephones, directories, vacancies, walkways, no trespassing and those of similar nature; on-site directional signs not to exceed six square feet in area per sign nor more than one sign for each driveway access to a public right-of-way and restricted to four feet in height.

Flags. The flags, emblems, or insignias of any national or political subdivision utilized for noncommercial use.

Interior Signs. Signs located within the interior of any building, or within an enclosed lobby or court of any building, and signs located within the inner or outer lobby, court or entrance of any theater.

Memorial Signs or Tablets. Memorial signs or tablets, names of buildings, and dates of building erection, when cut into the surface or facade of the building.

Nameplates. One nameplate not exceeding two square feet in area for each dwelling unit or office.

Project Construction Signs. On-site construction or project signs advertising the architect, builder, financing, sale, lease, or related information if limited to 50 square feet in area for each street frontage, placed more than 100 feet from the street intersection if more than one sign used, and provided such sign is removed within 30 days after occupancy is authorized.

Public Notices and Governmental Signs. Official notices posted by public officers or employees in the performance of their duties; governmental signs for control of traffic and other regulatory purposes, street signs, danger signs, railroad crossing signs and signs of public service companies indicating danger and aids to service or safety.

Real Estate Signs. One six-square-foot on-site real estate sign for each frontage on a public street; provided, that such sign(s) shall be removed within 30 days following the sale, lease, or disposition of the real property.

Subdivision Tract Signs. One on-site tract sign not exceeding an area of 160 square feet located within the boundaries of a new subdivision, to advertise directions, price, terms and similar information, provided such advertising display is removed within a period of 18 months, unless an extension has been granted by the community development director.

Symbols or Insignias. Religious symbols, commemorative plaques of recognized historical agencies, or identification emblems of religious orders or historical agencies.

Political Signs. Pertaining to issues or candidates in a pending election; provided, that said signs are removed within 30 days after the election.

Balloon Signs. Fixed balloon signs or any lighter-than-air or gas-filled balloon(s) attached by means of a rope or tether to a fixed location are prohibited.

Indecent Signs. Signs that display nudity, vulgar language, or other items of adult content as defined in BGMC § 9.20.045, Adult entertainment businesses.

Intensely Lighted Signs. No sign shall be permitted which because of its intensity of light constitutes a nuisance or hazard to vehicular traffic, pedestrians, or adjacent properties (with the exception of LED signs for public facilities and gas station pricing signs). Electronic billboards approved under BGMC § 9.40.065 and which comply with the requirements thereunder shall not constitute an intensely lighted sign under this subsection.

Motion Signs. No motion signs shall be permitted (with the exception of LED signs for public facilities).

Noise- and Matter-Emitting Signs. No sign or device shall be permitted which emits sound, odor, or visible matter.

Painted-On Signs. No signs shall be permitted to be painted on the exterior of building walls.

Portable Signs. A-frame and other portable signs of a similar nature.

Public Areas. No sign shall be permitted which is placed on any curb, sidewalk, post, pole, electrolier, hydrant, bridge, tree, or other surface or appurtenance or over or across any street or public thoroughfare except as may otherwise expressly be authorized by these regulations.

Roof Signs. No signs shall be permitted to be mounted to the roof of a building or to project above the height of any parapet.

Traffic Hazards. Signs which, by color, wording, design, location, illumination or similar characteristics, interfere with or may be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or control device regulating the safe and efficient flow of traffic; or which may create a safety hazard by obstructing a clear view of pedestrian or vehicular traffic; or which obstruct access to required parking areas.

Vehicle-Supported Signs. No person shall park any vehicle or trailer on private property or public right-of-way which has attached thereto or located thereon any sign or advertising device for the basic purpose of advertising products or services or directing people to a business or activity. This section is not intended to apply to standard advertising or identification practice where such signs are painted on or permanently attached to a business or commercial vehicle.

Maintenance and Repair. Each sign shall be operated safely and in good condition, including the replacement and repair of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning, and other acts required for the maintenance of a permitted sign.

Dangerous or Defective Signs. No person shall maintain or permit to be maintained on any premises owned or controlled by such person any sign which is in a dangerous or defective condition. Any such sign shall be promptly removed or repaired by the business or property owner.

Existing Signs. All signs legally existing as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter shall be allowed to remain as long as such signs are in compliance with the sign maintenance provisions of these regulations and do not result in changes to the location, height, size or copy of the sign.

Alterations to Existing Signs. No sign permit for an on-site sign shall be issued to alter an existing sign in terms of location, height, size or significant change of copy (i.e., more than 33 percent of the total copy area of the sign) until all existing signs for the same use or occupancy are brought into conformance with the provisions of these regulations. Compliance shall occur either prior to or concurrently with the alteration of the existing sign.

New Signs. No sign permit shall be issued to construct a new sign for a use or occupancy until all existing signs for the same use or occupancy are in compliance with the provisions of these regulations. Compliance shall occur either prior to or concurrently with the construction of the new sign.

Carnivals, private.

Circuses, private.

Street fairs, private.

Other private uses determined by the community development director to be similar.

Carnivals, Circuses, Street Fairs, and Other Similar Uses. Permitted with a special event permit if located on publicly owned or leased property, or on any general curriculum public or private school grounds, or on property improved with a permanently established church. The sponsorship of such carnival shall be confined to a public agency or religious, fraternal, or service organization directly engaged in civic or charitable endeavors within the city.

Seasonal Sales. Allowed in all zones except R-1 and R-2. Permitted uses include all nationally recognized holidays. Business set-up and sales may begin no earlier than 30 days before the holiday with the exception of the Christmas holiday. The sale of Christmas trees and wreaths may take place between November 1st and December 25th, both dates inclusive, to the extent permitted by other statutory and ordinance provisions. Any structures, facilities, and materials used for seasonal sales shall be removed from the premises within 48 hours following the holiday, and the property restored to a clean condition.

Holiday Sales. A business owner may apply for an outside sales display in front of his/her own storefront for a nationally recognized holiday only. The special event permit application must be received by the community development department at least seven business days before the event.

Grand Openings or Closing Sales. A business owner may apply for an outside sales display in front of his/her own storefront for grand openings or closing sales one time only and within 60 days after opening or before closing.

Parking Lot Sales. A multi-tenant shopping center with three or more lease spaces may apply for a parking lot sale. The sales are limited to the businesses leasing the spaces in the center. Parking must be accommodated to prevent any overspill onto the streets or adjacent properties. These uses shall be limited to a period of four times per year, not to exceed three consecutive days.

Marathon Dances. Following BGMC § 5.28.060, marathon dances are prohibited unless the city issues a special event permit for the dance as a temporary use. The dance may not commence until after a 24-hour period has passed from the time of approval.

Filming. The special event permit application must be received by the community development department at least seven business days before the event and must meet the provisions of BGMC Title 5 for business license requirements.

Other Similar Events. The community development director may approve a special event permit for a use not described in this section but which the director finds similar and appropriate. The director may also defer the event to the planning commission for review and approval through a site plan review application if he or she deems it necessary for the public welfare.

Real Estate Sales Office (Trailer or Modular). Permitted for a maximum period of two years and solely for the purpose of conducting sales of lots in a subdivision upon which such office is located, provided such office shall not be used in conjunction with a general real estate business. At the end of two years from the start of construction, any structure used for such purpose shall either be removed or restored for a use permitted in the zone where located, except that the commission may, upon a showing of need by the owner of the property, extend the permitted time for a period not to exceed one additional year.

Roll-Off Storage Containers. Permitted for storage purposes only, subject to the following standards:

Roll-Off Trash Containers Greater Than Five Cubic Yards. Permitted for construction activity only in association with an approved building permit subject to the following standards:

Tents for Special Events. Tents may only be used in association with a special event permit and require clearance from the building and fire departments as part of the special event permit process.

Other Temporary Structure. The community development director may determine that another temporary structure not listed in this section is permitted subject to a site plan review. The time frame and location of said structure shall be at the discretion of the director.

Residential. Parcels occupied by five or more residential multifamily rental units shall be required to maintain a trash enclosure area. Existing properties that do not conform to this standard shall be required construction of the enclosure upon adding more than 50 percent total floor area or increasing the density of the site by one or more units.

Nonresidential. Commercial and industrial uses, as well as all other uses which require an on-site refuse dumpster, shall be required to maintain a trash enclosure area. Existing properties that do not conform to this standard shall be required to construct the enclosure upon adding more than 10 percent total floor area or requesting city approvals that require planning commission or city council action.

All proposals for new trash enclosures shall be subject to review and approval by the community development director or his/her designee.

No trash shall be allowed to project above the walls of the enclosure.

Enclosure shall be constructed in the rear of a property unless no other area exists. If visible from the street, the enclosure shall be screened with landscaping and/or constructed to be architecturally appealing to the satisfaction of the city planner.

Enclosure Specifications.

Partially Developed Blocks. Where some lots or parcels of land in a block are improved or partially improved with buildings, each lot or parcel of land in said block shall have a front yard depth of not less than the average depth of the front yards of land adjoining on either side. A vacant lot or parcel of land, or a lot or parcel of land having more than the front yard depth required in the zone, shall be considered for this purpose as having a front yard of the required depth.

Key Lots. The depth of the required front yard on key lots or parcels of land shall not be less than the average depth of the required front yard of the adjoining interior lot or parcel of land and the required side yard of the adjoining reversed corner lot or parcel of land.

Pavement versus Landscape. Paved areas, including walkways and hardscape, within the front yard of a residential use shall not exceed 50 percent of the total front yard.

Width. Each interior lot or parcel of land with a lot width of 50 feet or less in zones having required side yards shall have side yards as required by the zone, but in no event shall the width of such required side yards be less than three feet.

Corner or Reversed Corner Lots.

Location of Accessory Buildings with Regard to Interior Side and Rear Lot Lines.

Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, a detached accessory building having an opening more than six feet wide facing an existing or proposed alley shall be located not less than 20 feet from the center line of said alley. If the accessory structure is a garage or carport, all vehicles shall be maintained within the footprint of the structure to avoid overlap onto the alley. Otherwise, the opening must face the interior of the lot and meet the minimum turning radius requirements of the Bell Gardens Municipal Code.

Whenever a utility pole is situated on any property line, a distance of four feet shall be maintained between the accessory building and the side property line, providing access to said utility pole.

In addition to accessory buildings permitted by BGMC § 9.46.040, Location of accessory buildings in residential yards, the following structures may be erected or projected into any required yard of any zone:

The following projections may extend into a required front or rear yard a distance not to exceed six feet, provided such projections do not approach within two and one-half feet of any front, side or rear property line:

The following improvements shall not be permitted in the front yard of any property:

Fifty feet from the center line of every major highway.

Forty feet from the center line of every secondary highway.

One-half the planned ultimate width of all streets pursuant to the standards of Division 6 of this title, Subdivision Regulations, unless, in the opinion of the commission, topographic features, subdivision plans, or other conditions create an unnecessary hardship or unreasonable regulation and the commission deems a lesser width adequate. The commission shall designate the distance from the center line in any case where said ultimate width is not specified.

In all zones, on the intersections of any streets or highways with streets or highways on which BGMC § 9.46.070, Property adjoining a street or highway, imposes any setback or building line, a person shall not use any building or structure, except as permitted within a setback by BGMC § 9.46.050, Location of other structures and projections into yards, within those triangles formed by the intersection of the setback lines established by BGMC § 9.46.070 on such streets or highways for a distance of 17 feet from such intersection on each of such lines and a line connecting the ends of such lines. If there is no setback line on one of such streets or highways, the property line shall be substituted.

Corner cut-offs as required in BGMC § 9.26.030, Dedication standards, shall be provided as specified in Division 6 of this title, Subdivision Regulations.

Storage in Yards. No storage shall be permitted in any required front or side yards adjacent to a street or highway.

Motor Vehicles. No motor vehicles shall be repaired, dismantled or stored in any required front yard or in any side yard adjacent to a street or highway.

To strengthen the economic viability of Eastern and Florence Avenues as a vibrant community business center.

To enhance the pedestrian character and orientation of Eastern and Florence Avenues.

To enhance the visual appearance and quality of design and improvements to existing and proposed structures.

To encourage the restoration of existing architectural resources and other structures with character and significant features.

To encourage modernization of nonsignificant structures through flexibility and consistency in design.

To encourage compatibility of new in-fill developments.

To provide for the protection and buffering of residential uses.

To continue the community business revitalization program as a commitment and incentive to property owners and business tenants.

The sign regulations prescribed herein shall not affect existing signs which were previously established and in accordance with this title. However, any proposed modifications and/or additions to existing signs, including size, shape, colors, lettering and location, shall conform to all current provisions specified herein.

All signs in a state of disrepair shall be repaired so as to be consistent with the standards of this title, or removed within 30 days from receipt of notification that a state of disrepair exists.

Wall Signs.

Building Tenant Information/Identification Signs.

Prohibited Signs.

Sign Size.

Sign Design. Design shall be subject to review and approval by the city community development department to ensure that:

Materials.

Colors.

Awnings.

Mechanical Equipment.

Prohibited Security Elements.