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Corona City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 17

74 SIGNS

17.74.010 Purpose and intent.

   The city recognizes that signs and other graphics are essential elements of a community’s visual appearance. They also provide means to identify and promote businesses and are an important element in creating safer public streets and highways. Consequently, the purpose of this chapter is to provide sign regulations that are consistent with goals and objectives of the General Plan and the community’s visual and aesthetic goals. In addition, these regulations are intended to:
   (A)   To provide a reasonable system of control of signs, integrated within and as a part of the comprehensive zoning plan set forth by this code;
   (B)   To encourage signs which are well designed and pleasing in appearance and to provide incentive and spacing of signs and latitude for variety of good sign relationship;
   (C)   To encourage a desirable urban character which has a minimum of overhead clutter;
   (D)   To enhance the economic value of the city's community and each area thereof through the regulations of such things as size, height, location and illumination of signs;
   (E)   To protect the public and private investment in buildings and open space;
   (F)   To encourage signs which are compatible with adjacent land uses;
   (G)   To prevent a profusion of sign displays which are confusing to the general public;
   (H)   To reduce possible traffic and safety hazards to motorists and pedestrians through sound signing practices;
   (I)   To preserve and improve the appearance of the city as a place in which to live and to work and as an attraction to nonresidents who come to visit or trade;
   (J)   To promote the public health, safety and general welfare of the city.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.010.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004.)

17.74.020 Interpretation and substitution of text.

   (A)   The provisions of this chapter shall not be interpreted to nullify any easements, covenants or other private agreements which provide for more restrictive sign regulations than are required by this chapter.
   (B)   Whenever the application of this chapter is uncertain due to ambiguity of its provisions, the issue shall be referred to the Planning Director for a written determination. Such determination shall be made within ten days. Any decision made by the Planning Director may be appealed in accorace with § 17.74.050(E).
   (C)   In each instance and under the same conditions to which this chapter permits any sign, a sign containing an ideological, political or other non-commercial message that is constructed to the same physical dimensions of the permitted sign shall be permitted.
   (D)   Signs not expressly permitted by this chapter are prohibited.
(Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004.)

17.74.030 Definitions.

   As used in this title, and any other provisions of this title, the following terms, words and phrases have the meanings as defined in this section unless another meaning is clearly apparent from the context:
   Abandoned sign means a sign related to a former business located on property which remains unoccupied for a period of one hundred twenty days or more, or any sign which was erected for an occupant or business unrelated to the present occupant or business, and any sign which pertains to a time, event or purpose which no longer exists.
   Animated or moving sign means any sign which is designed and constructed to attract attention by visual means through the movement, lighting, or special materials to depict action or create a special effect to imitate movement.
   Awning” means are roof-like covers made of fabric (such as canvas) that project from the wall of a building for the purpose of shielding a doorway or window from the elements.
   Awning sign” means any sign copy or logo attached to or painted on the flap or valance of an awning.
   Backlit (Halo) channel lettering means a type of sign utilizing opaque channel lettering with an open back containing a light source which throws light onto the sign background against which the channel letters are silhouetted.
   Balloon.” Any air or gas filled balloon or blimp attached to a string, rope or similar ligature, and tethered to a fixed place or object, including motor vehicle.
   “Banner.” A temporary horizontal sign constructed of durable material that is fastened to the facade of a building for advertising purposes, which shall not be displayed for more than 180 days.
   Bench means a seat located upon or adjacent to public property for the use of a combination of passers-by or persons awaiting transportation.
   Billboard.” See "outdoor advertising sign."
   Blade (pendant or under canopy) sign  means a sign suspended beneath a projecting canopy, walkway cover, awning, or ceiling.
   Building face” means the general outer surface of a main exterior wall of the building. For example, a building with a rectangular plan has four main exterior walls and four building faces.
   Building identification sign.” A type of sign that is installed on a building that identifies the name of a business or service.
   Bulletin board” means a sign of permanent character, but with removable letters, words or numerals.
   Business and professional group” means two or more businesses or professions conducting business on one or more contiguous parcels of land or any portions of such parcels of land and which are in contiguous buildings or uses.
   Business sign” means a sign which directs attention to a principal business profession service or use located upon the premises.
   Cabinet (Can) sign means a sign that contains all the text and/or logo symbols within a single enclosed cabinet and may or may not be illuminated.
   Channel letters.”  Three dimensional, individually cut letters or figures, illuminated or non-illuminated, affixed to a building or sign structure.
   Construction or promotional signs means a sign with the intent of notifying the public that a project is “coming soon” or of the name of the architectural, engineering, construction firms engaged in the work on a construction site.
   Development sign” means a temporary sign listing the address or name of the architect, landscape architect, engineer, planner, contractor or other person or firm participating in the development, construction or financing of a project on the premises on which the sign is located.
   Direct light” means light which proceeds from its source to the viewer's eye without being diffused.
   Directional sign” means any freestanding nonflashing sign, other than a highway marker or any sign erected and maintained by a public authority, which is primarily designed, erected and maintained to serve as a public convenience in directing persons to a place of importance or interest, to a structure, or to a use situated within the city.
   Directly illuminated sign” means a sign designed to give forth artificial light directly or through transparent or translucent material from a source of light visible from the street or from abutting property, including but not limited to exposed tubing neon signs.
   Directory sign.”  A sign listing the tenants or occupants and their suite numbers of a residential, commercial, or industrial development project.
   Eave line.”  The bottom of a roof eave (overhang).
   Electric(al) sign means any sign utilizing electricity exterior/interior to illuminate its surface.
   Electronic message center means a sign having the capability of presenting variable advertising message displays by projecting an electronically controlled light pattern against a contrasting background, and which can be programmed to change such message display periodically. An electronic message center is neither an animated sign nor a simulated motion sign.
   Erect means to build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend, relocate, enlarge, substantially alter or affix to or upon any surface, including the painting or otherwise applying of wall signs, posting or displaying. Normal maintenance is not included in this definition.
   Exterior illuminated sign.” A sign whose illumination is reflected from the light source by the sign surface to the viewer’s eye, the source of light not being visible to the viewer.
   "Feather flag" means a temporary vertical advertising banner made from a textile or nylon material supported by a single pole temporarily staked into the ground.
   Festoon.”  A curtain of fabric draped and bound at intervals to form graceful loops, usually installed on poles or light standards.
   Freestanding sign.”  A sign with a fixed location, such as a pylon or monument sign that is installed with a permanent foundation and not attached to any building.
   Freeway viewshed means an unobstructed view from the freeway to the place of business, taking into account the likely ultimate development of surrounding properties based on current general plan and zoning regulations.
   Grand opening.”  A promotional activity used by newly established businesses, occurring within 3-months following occupancy, to inform the public of their location and services or products available to the community. “Grand Opening” does not mean an annual or occasional promotion of retail sales by a business.
   “Icon.” See “Logo.”
   Illuminated sign” means a sign which emits or reflects lights from a source purposely placed to make the sign visible.
   “Indirectly illuminated sign.” A sign whose source of illumination is not part of the sign.
   Interior illuminated sign.”  A sign designed to emit artificial light directly, or through transparent or translucent material, from an interior light source.
   Kiosk” means a structure of four sides or less constructed to advertise off-site subdivision, tracts, public facility, apartments, community golf courses, or names of regional shopping centers occupying 15 acres or more, as authorized by an agreement with the city. Individual tenant identification is not authorized under this definition. Kiosk signs for regional shopping centers may list some or all of the tenants occupying space in the regional shopping center.
   “Light pole (standard) banner.” A vertical banner that is fastened to a light pole (standard) to attract attention for advertisement or decoration purposes.
   Logo (Icon).”  An identifying symbol or mark associated with a business or business entity.
   Marquee sign.”  A wall sign or monument sign with movable or changeable letters, words or numerals, erected for the purpose of publicizing current or coming attractions or events at a school, theater, arena, playhouse, auditorium or cinema.
   Monument sign.”  A freestanding sign with a solid base that is equal to, or greater than, the width of the sign face, and incorporates the architectural theme and building materials of the building(s) located on the property in which the sign serves.
   Nameplate means a sign serving to designate only the person or the name and professional occupation or home occupation of a person or persons residing in or occupying space in a building located on the premises on which the sign is located.
   Non-illuminated sign.”  A sign that is not illuminated.
   Off-site sign” means any sign which is not located on the business or activity site it identifies or advertises.
   On-site sign” means any sign which directs attention to an occupancy, business, commodity, service or entertainment conducted, sold or offered only upon the premises where the sign is located.
   "Outdoor advertising sign (Billboards)" means any sign with a commercial or non-commercial message, other than a directional sign, which directs attention to a business, commodity, service or entertainment conducted, sold or offered elsewhere than upon the premises where the sign is located, or to which it is affixed. Said definition shall not include subdivision or tract signs, political signs, signage affiliated with solar powered electric vehicle charging stations, or signs installed pursuant to a city sign program provided for in §§ 17.74.220, 17.74.230 or 17.74.240.
   Parcel identification sign” means a freestanding on-site sign such as a monument or pylon sign.
   Pennant means a long, tapering, usually triangular flag which is attached by a string to buildings and/or light standards and used for promotional purposes.
   Political sign” means any sign which is designed to influence the action of the voters with respect to the passage or defeat of a measure appearing on the ballot at any national, state or local election, or which is designed to influence the voters with respect to the nomination, election or defeat of a candidate for public office or the removal of any person from public office at any national, state or local election. "Political sign" includes any sign which is designed to encourage voters to vote for the candidates of a particular political party, and any sign pertaining to the conduct of government in general.
   Portable sign” means any sign capable of being carried or readily moved from one location to another, including but not limited to, any A-frame, sandwich sign, a sign on wheels, a sign which leans against a stationary object, building, or structure, or which is not designed to be permanently attached to a building, structure or to the ground or mounted on a vehicle not utilized for the daily operation of a business. This section shall not apply to banners, flags, pennants, balloons, or other types of approved advertising devices as provided for in § 17.74.080.
   Premises” means a lot or parcel of real property or portion thereof, which is used separately from other portions thereof, or any building located thereon, or any portion of such building, which has a separate street address.
   Pylon sign.” A freestanding sign that is permanently supported by one or more uprights, braces, or poles, or other similar structural components that are architecturally compatible with the main structure of the site.
   Real estate sign” means a sign advertising the sale, rental or lease of the premises on which the sign is located and maintained excluding a subdivision sign.
   Relocated billboard.”  An existing billboard that is located in the city that is relocated through a City Council approved “Relocation Agreement.” The relocated billboard is not considered a new outdoor advertising sign.
   Roof line.” The upper edge of any building wall or parapet for a flat-roof structure; or the ridgeline of a gable roof structure.
   Roof sign” means any sign of any nature, together with all its parts and supports, exclusive of a sign tower, which is erected, constructed or maintained on or above the roof or parapet of any building.
   Sign” means any notice, writing of letters, words or numerals, pictorial presentations, illustrations or decorations, emblems or devices, symbols or trademarks, flags, banners or pennants, graphic announcements, insignia display, display of words, bills, posters, pictures, lithographs, maps, plats, barber poles, buntings, whirligigs, balloons, valances, light festoons, merchandise display or any other thing of similar nature, designed to be and used as a means of attracting attention outdoors, including but not limited to a structure or any part thereof, or a thing attached to, painted on, or in any manner represented on a building or structure or device and used to advertise or promote, and attract the interest of any person.
   Sign area.”
      (1)   Wall sign. The entire area within a perimeter defined by a continuous line composed of right angles which enclose the extreme limits of lettering, logo, trademark, or other graphic representation, together with any frame or structural trim forming an integral part of the display used to differentiate the sign from the background against which it is placed.
      (2)   Pylon and monument signs. The entire area enclosing the extreme limits of representation, emblem or any figure or similar characters excluding the necessary supports or uprights on which such sign is placed, unless such supports, uprights or structures are designed in such a manner as to form an integral background of the display. Where a sign has two or more faces the area of all faces shall be included in determining the area of the sign except where two such faces are placed back to back and are at no point more than two feet from one another. The area of the sign shall be taken as the area of one face if the two faces are of equal area or as the area of the larger face if the two faces are of unequal area.
   Sign copy.”  Any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or any other symbolic representations incorporated onto the face of a sign, excluding building addresses.
   Sign height.”  The vertical distance measured from the highest point of the sign to the natural or finish grade at the mid-point of the base of the sign.
   Sign program.  A plan providing coordinated signing for a commercial or industrial centers, business or a group of contiguous businesses, and utilizing one or more common design elements, such as, but not limited to, colors, materials, lettering, illumination sign type, and sign shape.
   Sign structure” means the supports, uprights, braces and frameworks of a sign.
   Stationary sign” means a sign which does not revolve, oscillate, or move and has no flashing, blinking or moving lights.
   Subdivision or tract sign means a temporary on-site sign advertising the original sale of property in a subdivision. A subdivision or tract shall be that real property encompassed in a tentative tract map as approved by the Planning Commission. Tentative subdivisions which are contiguous and use the same name shall be considered a single subdivision for purposes of computing subdivision sign area and number.
   Symbol sign” means a sign, integral or attached to a structure or building, which identifies and directs attention to the enterprises, service, entertainment or goods sold on the premises on which the sign is located by means of pictorial presentation, emblem, trademark, or logo, but does not include any sign bearing a written message.
   "Temporary sign" means any sign constructed of paper, cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard or other similar lightweight materials, with or without frames which is displayed for a limited period of time in accordance with an approved banner permit, feather flag permit, temporary use permit, special use permit or as described under §§ 17.74.040 and 17.74.070(I).
   “Time and temperature devices” means any mechanism that displays the time or temperature, but does not display any advertising or establishment identification.
   Valances.”   Ornamental draperies hung across a top edge for decorative and advertisement purposes.
   Wall sign.”  A sign that is attached to the exterior wall of a structure with the display surface of the sign approximately parallel to the building wall.
   Wall mural.” A very large image, such as a painting or enlarged photograph, applied directly to a wall.
   Whirligigs.”   Something that continuously spins or whirls to attract attention for advertisement or decoration purposes.
   Window sign” means any temporary sign posted, painted, or affixed in or on a window exposed to public view.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.030.) (Ord. 3420 § 4, 2025; Ord. 3158 § 3, 2013; Ord. 3058 § 1, 2010; Ord. 2958 § 1 (part), 2008; Ord. 2940 § 1 (part), 2008; Ord. 2881 § 1, 2007; Ord. 2770 § 1 (part), 2005; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2529 § 1, 2001; Ord. 2482 § 1, 2000; Ord. 2144 § 1, 1993; Ord. 2048 § 2, 1991; Ord. 1941 § 1, 1989; Ord. 1916 § 2, 1989; Ord. 1829 § 1, 1987; Ord. 1660 § 1, 1982; Ord. 1613 § 1, 1981.)

17.74.040 Exemptions.

   Except as expressly provided for in this section, the provisions and regulations of this chapter and title shall not apply to the following signs, nor shall the area of such signs be counted toward the maximum allowable sign area for any premises or use.
   (A)   Directional sign. The city has a compelling interest in permitting directional signs in order to promote traffic safety. Directional signs shall be permitted on-site in addition to the other signs listed in this section.
      (1)   A directional sign used to give directions to traffic or pedestrians or to give instructions as to special conditions shall not exceed a total of six square feet in area per sign.
      (2)   A parcel of land which meets all of the following criteria may have one directional sign up to a maximum area of 100 square feet and a maximum height of 40 feet:
         (a)   The parcel of land to which the directional sign pertains is bifurcated as a direct result of an eminent domain proceeding in connection with a public improvement project initiated by the city.
         (b)   The visibility of the parcel of land to which the directional sign pertains is directly and significantly affected by the public improvement project initiated by the city.
         (c)   The directional sign is located on land which had been a part of the parcel of land that was bifurcated as a direct result of the public improvement project initiated by the city.
         (d)   The directional sign is located within 175 feet of the closest edge of the parcel of land to which the directional sign pertains and gives directions only to the parcel.
         (e)   The directional sign identifies no more than two nonresidential tenants or businesses operating on the parcel to which the directional sign pertains.
         (f)   A maximum of one directional sign shall be permitted per parcel to which the directional sign pertains.
         (g)   No part of the parcel of land to which the directional sign pertains is zoned or used for residential purposes.
         (h)   A sign permit has been issued for the directional sign pursuant to § 17.74.050.
   (B)   The city has a compelling interest in permitting such signs that promote public safety and places of service or interest, such as signs identifying restrooms, public telephones, walkways and similar features or facilities; provided such signs do not exceed no more than two square feet and contain no advertising message.
   (C)   Signs that are inset or cut into the surface or the facade of the building but not projecting more than two inches from the surface.
   (D)   The city has a compelling interest for public safety in permitting traffic or municipal signs, signs required by law that promote public safety such as, railroad crossing signs, legal notices, and emergency or danger notices; provided such signs shall not exceed twelve square feet unless otherwise specified by law, contain no advertising message and shall not be more than one sign per street frontage unless otherwise required by law.
   (E)   The city has compelling interest in allowing emergency, temporary or non-advertising signs that promote public safety and whose placement is authorized by the City Council, except those as described in § 17.74.090 (Construction or Promotional signs) and § 17.74.110 (Subdivision or tract signs).
   (F)   The city has a compelling interest in authorizing signs of public utility companies and private contractors that indicate danger or which serve as an aid to public safety, or which show the location of underground facilities.
   (G)   One real estate sign per street frontage provided such sign:
      (1)   Is located entirely on the property offered for sale or lease, or other private property with the respective owner's consent;
      (2)   Does not exceed the height limitations of the zone and is placed outside of any corner cut-off area as defined in § 17.70.050;
      (3)   Does not exceed the following size limitations:
         (a)   Five square feet in area for properties located within the R-1 or R-2 zones, or properties located within a low density residential designation in a specific plan.
         (b)   Thirty-two square feet in area for properties located within the C, M, A or R-3 zones, or properties located within similar land use designations in a specific plan.
      (4)   Is removed upon the close of escrow or when the rental or lease of the premises has been executed whichever occurs first.
   (H)   House numbers, nameplates, "No Trespassing," "No Parking," and other warning signs provided the sign:
      (1)   Does not exceed two square feet; and
      (2)   Is located entirely on-site.
   (I)   Signs located in the interior of any building or within an enclosed lobby and located to be viewed exclusively by patrons of such use or uses.
   (J)   One bulletin board per street frontage for public, nonprofit, charitable or religious institutions provided the board:
      (1)   Does not exceed thirty-two square feet in area;
      (2)   Contains no commercial advertising message;
      (3)   Is located on the premises of said institution.
   (K)   Signs which are located within an athletic field, race track or similar recreational areas on private property which are not visible from the public or private streets, public areas or adjacent properties.
   (L)   The symbol or flag of the United States of America, State of California, or city and any standard or frame supporting said flag or symbol.
   (M)   Political signs as defined by § 17.74.030, including their supporting structures, provided that:
      (1)   No political sign shall be posted on any public property or in the public right-of-way. Political signs posted on public property or on the public right-of-way are subject to immediate removal by city forces without prior written or verbal notification.
      (2)   No political sign shall be posted in the corner cutoff area, as defined in § 17.70.050, except in accordance with the requirements of § 17.70.040. Political signs posted in the corner cut-off areas are subject to immediate removal by city forces without prior written or verbal notification.
      (3)   All political signs pertaining to a particular election shall be removed within ten days after the date of the election. Any political sign that remains posted for more than ten days after the election to which it pertains shall also be deemed abandoned. The Planning Director may cause the summary removal by city forces of such abandoned signs and any signs which constitute an immediate peril to persons or property without further notice. The removal of abandoned signs by city forces is subject to cost recovery as provided for in this subsection.
      (4)   All signs that have been confiscated by the city will be stored for a period of ten days from the date of the notification letter. In the event the signs are not reclaimed after the ten-day storage period, the signs will be discarded.
      (5)   The cost of removal of any sign by city forces pursuant to this section shall be borne by the actual responsible party or the candidate's designated agent. The cost of such removal under this section shall be the actual cost or the standard cost pursuant to an amount as set by resolution of the City Council.
      (6)   After such removal, the actual responsible party or the candidate's designated agent shall be served with a statement of cost. Notice shall be given that the determination stated in the statement of costs may be appealed pursuant to Chapter 1.09 of this Code. In addition and notwithstanding the provisions of § 1.09.040, the appellant shall be responsible for paying all costs of such appeal.
      (7)   If no appeal is timely filed, the costs shall become a civil debt owing to the city. An action may be commenced in the name of the city in any court of competent jurisdiction to recover the amount specified.
      (8)   If the appeal is timely filed, the decision of the hearing officer shall be final.
   (N)   Flags used pursuant to a model home permit.
   (O)   Memorial tablets, historical or identification plaques installed by a recognized governmental agency. The city has a compelling interest in permitting such signs to promote interest in the community's historical structures or events and to promote community identity, history and cultural resources.
   (P)   Flags or emblems of a political, civic, philanthropic, educational or religious organization not exceeding 24 square feet in area shall be permitted on premises occupied by such organizations.
   (Q)   Signage affiliated with Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.030.) (Ord. 3387 § 4, 2024; Ord. 3058 § 1, 2010; Ord. 2883 § 13 (part), 2007; Ord. 2864 § 3, 2006; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2426 § 1, 1999; Ord. 2286 § 1, 1996; Ord. 2275 §§ 1, 2, 3, 1995; Ord. 2146 § 1, 1993; Ord. 1941 § 2, 1989; Ord. 1829 § 2, 1987; Ord. 1660 § 2, 1982.)

17.74.050 Permit.

   (A)   Requirement. No sign shall hereafter be erected, re-erected, constructed, or altered, except for maintenance or repair, or replaced, except as provided in this section and divisions (B) and (D), unless a permit for the same has been issued by the Planning Director. A separate permit shall be required for each sign or group of signs in one location. In addition, electrical permits shall be obtained for electric and illuminated signs and the fee for such shall be in accordance with the Uniform Wiring Code and in addition to fees required under division (C).
   (B)   Application. Application for a sign permit shall be made in writing upon forms furnished by the Planning Director. The application shall be signed by either the owner, lessee or occupant of the premises upon which the sign is or will be located or by their authorized agents. The signature of said persons to said application shall be deemed their consent to the erection of a sign.
   (C)   Fees; permit fees. A fee for each sign permit shall be paid to the Planning Director prior to his issuance of a sign permit in accordance with the schedule of fees established by resolution of the council.
   (D)   Issuance. The Planning Director shall determine within ten days whether the proposed sign and proposed action concerning said sign, with respect to its construction, location and materials, conform to all applicable city ordinances, regulations and provisions of this code. Any permit may, at any time, be rescinded should any of the provisions of this chapter or any provision of this code or applicable regulations and ordinances be violated by permittee, and the same is established by the Planning Director.
   (E)   Appeals. A decision of the Planning Director may be appealed by the applicant or any interested person pursuant to Chapter 1.09 of this Code.
(`78 Code, §§ 17.74.040, 17.74.050, 17.74.060, 17.74.070.) (Ord. 2883 § 13 (part), 2007; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2286 §§ 2 and 3, 1996; Ord. 2135 § 1, 1992; Ord. 1660 §§ 3, 4, 5, 6, 1982.)

17.74.060 Applicability.

   Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the following regulations shall apply to the alteration, erection, and maintenance of each sign within the city. However, all other provisions of this code must be complied with, including but not limited to:
   (A)   Height and setback requirements. Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Code, all signs and outdoor advertising structures shall meet the height and setback requirements of the zone in which they are located.
   (B)   Sign construction requirements. All signs and outdoor advertising structures shall be constructed in accordance with the Uniform Building Code, Uniform Wiring Code, and other applicable provisions of this code.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.080.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 1842 § 1, 1987.)

17.74.070 Prohibited signs.

   The following signs are inconsistent with the purposes and standards of this chapter and are prohibited in the City of Corona.
   (A)   Animated or moving signs except for clocks, time and temperature displays and public service signs, and those signs that may be approved through the conditional use permit process.
   (B)   Portable, folding, A-frame, or similar signs.
   (C)   Signs emitting audible sounds, odors, or visible matter.
   (D)   Signs erected so that any portion of its surface or supports interfere with the free use of a fire escape, or exit, or obstruct a required ventilator, door, stairway, or window.
   (E)   Notices, placards, bills, posters, cards, stickers, banners, signs, advertisings, or other devices designed to attract the attention of the public that are posted or otherwise affixed upon any street furniture, right-of-way, public sidewalk, crosswalk, curb, lamppost, fencing, hydrant, tree, alley, telephone pole, public telephone, lighting system, or other public alarm or communication system; or that overhang any public lands or right-of-way.
   (F)   Signs that are mounted on the roof of a building, including mansard roofs, and similar architectural roof-like elements.
   (G)   Balloons, blimps, lighter-than-air devices, inflatable signs and objects, except as may be allowed through a temporary use permit.
   (H)   Except as provided in § 17.74.220 (regarding flags, banners, and pennants on city-owned light poles) and in § 17.74.120 (regarding kiosk signs), flags, banners, pennants, festoons, off-premises and outdoor advertising signs (billboards). However, notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, and consistent with the California Business & Professions Code Outdoor Advertising provisions, new outdoor advertising signs (billboards), including electronic message centers, electronic message boards, and changeable message boards, may be considered and constructed as part of a relocation agreement requested by the city and entered into between the city and a billboard and/or property owner. The replacement of a static billboard face with an electronic message center, electronic message board, or changeable message board pursuant to a billboard relocation agreement shall be considered a relocation for purposes of this section. The execution of a relocation agreement shall not operate to change the status of any billboard as a nonconforming use for purposes of this code. Such billboard relocation agreements may be approved by the City Council within its sole and absolute discretion and upon terms that are acceptable in its sole and absolute discretion; provided, however, that at a minimum the following conditions shall apply:
      (1)   A billboard may be relocated from a parcel with surface street frontage to a parcel with freeway frontage only if the following occur as part of such relocation:
         (a)   At least three billboards are removed in exchange for the one relocated billboard; and
         (b)   The total combined square footage of the relocated billboard is less than the total combined square footage of the three removed billboards, with each panel or billboard face being counted toward the total square footage.
      (2)   A billboard may be relocated from a parcel with surface street frontage to another parcel with surface street frontage only if the following occur as part of such relocation:
         (a)   The surface street on which the relocated billboard is located must be the same surface street on which the removed billboard had been located; and
         (b)   The total combined square footage of the relocated billboard is less than the total combined square footage of the removed billboard, with each panel or billboard face being counted toward the total square footage.
      (3)   A billboard may be relocated from a parcel with freeway frontage to another parcel with freeway frontage only if the total combined square footage of the relocated billboard is less than the total combined square footage of the removed billboard, with each panel or billboard face being counted toward the total square footage.
      (4)   A billboard located on a parcel with freeway frontage may not be relocated to a parcel with surface street frontage.
      (5)   For all billboard relocations, the total square footage of the relocated billboard must be less than the total combined square footage of the removed billboard, with each panel or billboard face being counted toward the total square footage.
   (I)   Signs in the public right-of-way except as authorized by a recognized government agency. Signs placed in the public right-of-way will be subject to removal by the city with the costs to remove borne by the responsible party in accordance with § 17.74.200.
   (J)   Signs placed on stationary vehicles/trailers in the public right-of-way for the purpose of advertising businesses, services, or products.
(`78 Code, §§ 17.74.082, 17.74.090, 17.74.100.) (Ord. 3392 § 4, 2024; Ord. 3319 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2958 § 1 (part), 2008; Ord. 2940 § 1 (part), 2008; Ord. 2923 § 1, 2008; Ord. 2864 § 1, 2006; Ord. 2849 § 1 (part), 2006; Ord. 2770 § 1 (part), 2005; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2144 § 2, 1993; Ord. 1660 §§ 7 and 8, 1982;)

17.74.080 Flags, banners, pennants and devices to attract attention.

   Except as provided in §§ 17.74.220 and 17.74.230 regarding flags, banners, signs and pennants on and around city-owned light poles and sports facilities, flags, banners, pennants, festoons, valances, balloons, whirligigs and other such devices used to attract attention outdoors shall be allowed within the city only for the purpose of advertising special sales, and only upon obtaining an appropriate permit therefore subject to the following conditions:
   (A)   Banner permit.
      (1)   One banner shall be allowed per business for a period not to exceed 180 days for a special sale, grand opening or promotion in a calendar year.
      (2)   Banners shall not augment existing permanent signs by advertising the same message.
      (3)   Banners shall be placed flat against a building surface and not on the roof of a building or extend above the roof parapet.
      (4)   Banners shall not be placed on fences, signs, poles, vehicles or other surfaces not authorized by this section. However, businesses engaging in predominantly outdoor sales, such as the sale of automobiles, recreational vehicles, motorcycles and boats may have a banner secured between two poles located inside the property. In this circumstance, the height of the banner shall not exceed six feet.
      (5)   Banners shall not exceed 50 square feet in size.
   (B)   Temporary use permit.
      (1)   Rooftop mounted balloons, pennants, spinners, tethered helium balloons, either stacked or arched, and similar devices are permitted with the issuance of a temporary use permit granted by the Zoning Administrator. If such devices are in conjunction with an event associated with a special use permit as described in § 17.98.030, the issuance of the permit shall be granted by the Board of Zoning Adjustment.
      (2)   Tethered helium balloons shall not be displayed on the roof or exterior surface of any building.
   (C)   Feather flag permit.
      (1)   Feather flags are permitted with the issuance of a feather flag permit for commercial and industrial businesses, and multiple dwelling rentals containing 50 or more units.
      (2)   Five feather flags are allowed per premises, or for each commercial or business center where the property contains multiple tenants, for a period not to exceed a total of 60 days in a calendar year.
      (3)   Feather flags shall be spaced no closer than 30 feet from another feather flag on the same property.
      (4)   The feather flag shall advertise a special sale, event, or grand opening and shall not be used to augment other signage for the premises or business.
      (5)   The feather flag shall be associated with a business on the premises where it is located.
      (6)   The feather flag shall not be located in the public right-of-way.
      (7)   The feather flag shall be maintained in good condition and shall not be torn or ragged.
      (8)   The feather flag shall not be placed in the corner cut-off areas described in § 17.70.050.
   (D)   Permitted by right. The devices listed below shall be allowed for businesses engaging in predominantly outdoor sales such as the sale of autos, recreational vehicles, motorcycles and boats provided they are maintained in a clean and orderly fashion and not torn or faded subject to the following conditions:
      (1)   Festoons. One festoon may be placed upon each light standard or pole on the premises. Festoons shall not extend into the right-of-way areas.
      (2)   Flags. Flags may be placed on the roof top of a building, light standard or pole on the premises. Flags shall be placed a minimum of 15 feet apart and only on one side of the principal building on the premises.
      (3)   Light pole (standard) banners. Two vertical banners may be placed upon each light standard or pole on the premises. Light pole banners shall not extend into the right-of-way areas.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.110.) (Ord. 3420 § 5, 2025; Ord. 2940 § 1 (part), 2008; Ord. 2889 § 1, 2007; Ord. 2853 § 1, 2006; Ord. 2770 § 1 (part), 2005; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2275 § 4, 1995; Ord. 2265 § 1, 1995; Ord. 2156 § 1, 1993; Ord. 2135 § 2, 1992; Ord. 2129 § 1, 1992; Ord. 1660 § 9, 1982.)

17.74.090 Construction or promotional signs.

   Construction or promotional signs may be erected and maintained according to a permit issued by the Planning Director as provided in § 17.74.050 and this section.
   (A)   If the project's development plan and use has been reviewed and approved for conformity with the general plan and zoning designations.
   (B)   Shall be at least 32 square feet in size and no larger than 150 square feet or one square foot for every two linear feet of lot frontage, whichever is smaller. Sign shall not exceed 15 feet in height.
   (C)   Permits remain in effect for a maximum of 18 months, subject to a maximum of two six-month extensions if a valid building permit is in effect, or until issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, whichever occurs first.
   (D)   Upon expiration of the sign permit or issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, whichever occurs first, the holder of the permit shall immediately remove or cause the promotional sign to be removed.
   (E)   In the event that the permit holder fails to remove the sign within 24 hours of the expiration of the sign permit, the city may proceed to remove the promotional sign and charge the costs of such removal to the applicant or property owner.
(`78 Code, §§ 17.74.120, 17.74.130.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 1941 § 3, 1989; Ord. 1660 §§ 10 and 11, 1982.)

17.74.100 Events.

   Temporary event signs shall be permitted in any zone subject to the following:
   (A)   Such signs are located on private property;
   (B)   Such signs are not located within any corner cut-off or higher than three feet in any required building setback area;
   (C)   Permission is obtained from the owner or occupant of the site prior to issuance of any permit; and
   (D)   Such signs shall be removed within 48 hours after the event to which the sign may refer.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.150.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2275 § 5, 1995; Ord. 2135 § 3, 1992; Ord. 1660 § 14, 1982.)

17.74.110 Subdivision or tract.

   New subdivision or tract signs shall be governed by the following regulations:
   (A)   Allowance for on-site and off-site signs are as follows:
      (1)   On-site. One indirectly illuminated on-site sign shall be permitted to be installed by the developer or land owner on one lot of the newly approved residential subdivision or tract. Said sign shall not exceed 100 square feet in area and shall not exceed 15 feet in overall height. One sign may be permitted on each existing street frontage of the subdivision site.
      (2)   Off-site. Off-site subdivision or tract signs or apartment signs are prohibited within the City of Corona except as provided in § 17.74.120 of this Code.
   (B)   Sign permits for an on-site subdivision or tract sign shall be valid for only one year. However, prior to the expiration of said time period, the applicant may request a time extension not to exceed twelve consecutive calendar months. Total permit period shall not exceed four years.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.160.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 1916 §§ 3 and 4, 1989; Ord. 1660 § 16, 1982.)

17.74.120 Kiosk identification sign program.

   Kiosk signs as may be authorized by Planning Commission and/or City Council resolution.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.165.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2230 §§ 1, 2, 1994; Ord. 2047 § 5 (part), 1991; Ord. 1916 § 5, 1989.)

17.74.130 Parcel identification sign regulations.

   The following requirements apply to parcel identification signs in commercial and industrial zones. Two types of parcel identification signs are allowed: monument and pylon signs. The maximum sign height and areas of the signs shall be subject to the provisions of § 17.74.150.
   (A)   Unless expressly provided for in this chapter, including, but not limited to, § 17.74.120, no sign shall be erected or used on any property other than the one on which the business identified is located.
   (B)   Sign proposals shall be submitted with the precise plan or conditional use permit applications. Signs must be complementary to the architectural design of the building. Sign proposals shall include color scheme, types of materials, typeface, and a general maintenance schedule.
   (C)   Signs within required building setbacks shall be located within a landscape planter subject to the provisions of Chapter 17.70.
   (D)   No portion of the sign shall be permitted to overhang or encroach into the public right-of-way.
   (E)   With the exception of freeway-oriented signs, pylon signs may be oriented (perpendicular or parallel) toward the frontage on which they are installed and must be located within the one-third of the lot adjacent to the frontage. Pylon signs shall be setback 50 feet from residential properties.
   (F)   Pylon and monument signs may contain an address plate identifying the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of six inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right-of-way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowed sign area.
   (G)   Pursuant to § 17.99.075(A)(1) and (A)(2), the Zoning Administrator may issue a permit for up to an additional 30% in sign area to commercial businesses with a freeway viewshed and an increase of not more than 20% in the allowable height of pylon signs in commercial zones.
   (H)   Electronic message centers are allowed to be installed on parcels with freeway or major street frontage. Messages may not be changed at a rate faster than one message every four seconds, with an interval between messages of not less than one second.
   (I)   Parcel identification signs are allowed in the C-2 Restricted Commercial Zone, the C-3 General Commercial Zone, and the C-P Professional and Office Zone, subject to the following conditions:
      (1)   Parcel identification signs are allowed within the landscaped building setback subject to the provisions in § 17.74.150;
      (2)   The number of parcel identification signs are allowed based on the following criteria:
         (a)   Commercial or office centers ten acres and greater:
            (i)   One parcel identification sign per street frontage.
            (ii)   Centers having more than one street frontage may have no more than two parcel identification signs on one street frontage provided the other street frontage has no parcel identification sign. In this case, the total sign area for both signs combined on one street frontage shall not exceed the maximum sign area allowed in § 17.74.150.
            (iii)   Each parcel identification sign may list up to six tenants.
            (iv)   The name of the center, which may be included on the parcel identification sign provided that it does not exceed 32 square feet, shall not be calculated against the maximum sign area.
         (b)   Commercial or office centers less than ten acres:
            (i)   One parcel identification sign per street frontage.
            (ii)   Centers having more than one street frontage may have no more than two parcel identification signs on one street frontage provided the other street frontage has no parcel identification sign. In this case, the total sign area for both signs combined on one street frontage shall not exceed the maximum sign area allowed in § 17.74.150.
            (iii)   Each parcel identification sign may list up to four tenants.
            (iv)   The name of the center, which may be included on the pylon provided that it does not exceed 32 square feet, shall not be calculated against the maximum sign area.
      (3)   Shall be placed perpendicular or parallel to the street and located to ensure that vehicular and pedestrian sight distances at entry driveways and sidewalks are not impaired.
   (J)   An individual business within a multi-tenant commercial retail center with more than one building may be permitted to have a separate parcel identification sign provided that all of the following requirements are met:
      (1)   The business is in a separate structure on a separate legal lot;
      (2)   The lot accommodates all of the parking needs of the business;
      (3)   The lot has its own access from the street; and
      (4)   The linear frontage of the parcel was not calculated as part of the sign area for the center's parcel identification sign.
   (K)   An individual business within a multi-tenant office professional business or industrial center may be identified on a separate monument sign (maximum height per § 17.74.150) identifying up to three tenants, provided that all of the following criteria are met:
      (1)   The center is only identified by one monument style parcel identification sign which contains only the name of the center and the address range of the buildings;
      (2)   No more than one additional monument sign shall be permitted for each building per street frontage within the center, provided that no more than one sign per public street access is provided;
      (3)   Signs shall be subject to all other provisions of the Corona Municipal Code; and
      (4)   The aggregate total of all signs shall not exceed that which is permitted by the zone.
(Ord. 3294, 2019; Ord. 2958 § 1 (part), 2008; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004.)

17.74.140 Building identification sign regulations

   The following requirements apply to any building sign including wall, awning, window, marquees, and murals in commercial and industrial zones or as otherwise specified in this chapter. Wall signs should be compatible with the predominant visual elements of the building. The maximum sign height and areas of the signs shall be subject to the provisions of § 17.74.150.
   (A)   Wall signs.
      (1)   Unless expressly provided for in this chapter, no sign shall be erected or used on any property other than the one on which the business identified is located.
      (2)   Wall signs shall be located on no more than three sides of the building and shall not extend above an eave or parapet, or above or below a fascia on which they are located. Wall signs on frontages adjacent to residential uses or zones shall not be illuminated.
      (3)   Signs shall be placed flat against the wall and shall not project from the wall more than required for normal construction purposes and in no case more than 12 inches. The Planning Director may waive this requirement in special circumstances where a projection greater than 12 inches may be desirable to allow the creation of an especially creative and unique sign design.
      (4)   In the event that an electrical raceway is required for sign installation, the electrical raceway shall be kept as small as possible, shall not extend beyond the outside edges of the sign copy, and shall be painted to match the color of the background on which they are placed.
      (5)   Signs shall not be placed to obstruct any portion of a window or cover architectural elements (such as vertical piers, cornices, and similar elements). Exceptions to this requirement with the approval of the Planning Director.
      (6)   For sign proposals associated with new commercial construction, the proposal shall be submitted as part of the precise plan review process. Signs must be complementary to the architectural design of the building. Sign proposals shall include color scheme, types of materials, typeface, and a general maintenance schedule.
      (7)   All commercial or office centers consisting of two or more tenant spaces shall submit a comprehensive sign proposal including both parcel and building identification signs. The proposal shall integrate the signs with building design by:
         (a)   Using not more than three colors for signs;
         (b)   Using the same method of mounting signs;
         (c)   Using the same type of materials for sign components (such as sign copy, supports).
   (B)   Awning signs.
      (1)   Lettering shall be allowed only on the awning flap or valance only.
      (2)   Only permanent signs that are an integral part of the awning or architectural projection shall be allowed. Temporary signs shall not be placed on awnings.
      (3)   Awning signs shall only be allowed for first and second story occupancies.
      (4)   Awnings shall be regularly cleaned and kept free of dust and visible defects.
      (5)   No portion of the awning shall be permitted to overhang or encroach into the public right-of-way.
      (6)   The color of an awning sign should be compatible with and complementary to the color and material of the building to which it is attached.
   (C)   Window sign regulations. Sign permits are not required for window signs; however, they are subject to the following restrictions:
      (1)   Signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground floor and second story of a building frontage.
      (2)   Signs shall be placed on the interior side of the window, except that holiday or seasonal window displays and temporary messages may be placed on the exterior side of the window.
      (3)   A temporary window sign shall not be displayed for more than 90 days.
      (4)   Not more than 25% of the window area may be covered.
   (D)   Bulletin board or marquee sign regulations. Bulletin board signs are prohibited. Theatres having permanent seating for at least 100 persons shall be permitted one marquee per street frontage, provided that:
      (1)   Is located on the premises of the theatre center; and
      (2)   Is proportional in size to the number of theatre screens and the area of building frontage as determined through the Precise Plan process.
   (E)   Blade or under canopy signs.
      (1)   The sign shall provide a clearance of 7’-6” from the underlying walkway.
      (2)   The maximum square footage is eight square feet for each side; and no more than 3’-0” in height.
      (3)   The signs may be illuminated or non-illuminated. Illuminated signs may have an internal or external light source.
      (4)   Blade signs shall project no more than 3’-6” from the building face.
   (F)   Wall murals. The city has a compelling interest in permitting such signs to promote the culture, history, and scenery of the city. The size of a mural shall be proportional to the building elevation where it is proposed. Applicants shall work with the City of Corona to ensure proposed murals meet the intent of this chapter.
(Ord. 2770 § 1 (part), 2005; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004.)

17.74.150 Sign height and area tables.

   (A)   Subject to the provisions of this section, the maximum size for parcel and building identification signs are as follows:
Table 1 Parcel Identification
Sign type
Zone/use
Height
Maximum area
1 sq. ft. per lineal foot of lot frontage up to:
Table 1 Parcel Identification
Sign type
Zone/use
Height
Maximum area
1 sq. ft. per lineal foot of lot frontage up to:
Monument sign
A, A-14.4, R-1, R-2 and R-G
3 feet
4 sq. ft. maximum
Monument sign
R-3, MP
6 feet (shall be located outside corner cut off areas set forth in CMC § 17.70.050, except for structures described in CMC § 17.70.040(B)
24 sq. ft. by right;
60 sq. ft. maximum
Monument sign
C-2, C-3 and C-P
32 sq. ft. by right;
200 sq. ft. maximum
Monument sign
M-1, M-2, M-3, M-4
40 sq. ft. by right;
200 sq. ft. maximum
Pylon sign
C-2, C-3 and C-P
15 feet,
40 feet for properties contiguous to a freeway
*In building setback:
15 feet, with minimum 8-foot clearance from bottom of sign
Commercial or office centers 10 acres and greater: 32 sq. ft. by right; 240 sq. ft. maximum
Commercial or office centers less than 10 acres: 32 sq. ft. by right; 200 sq. ft. maximum
M-1, M-2 and M-4
40 feet. Allowed on properties with freeway frontage, subject to a minor conditional use permit pursuant to Ch. 17.92. Pylon signs shall be located on the side of the property visible from the freeway.
40 sq. ft. by right;
200 sq. ft. maximum
 
 
 
Table 2 Building Identification
Sign type
Zone/use
Height
Maximum area
1 sq. ft. per lineal foot of building elevation up to:
Wall sign
A, A-14.4, R-1, R-2, and R-G
N/A
4 sq. ft. maximum
Wall sign
R-3 and MP
24 sq. ft. by right;
60 sq. ft. maximum
Wall sign
C-2, C-3, and C-P
32 sq. ft. by right;
200 sq. ft. max.
Wall sign
M-1, M-2, M-3, M-4
80 sq. ft. by right;
200 sq. ft. maximum
 
 
Sign type
Zone/use
Height
1.5 sq. ft. per lineal foot of building elevation
Wall multi-story office building
C-2, C-3, C-P, M-1, and M-4
N/A
Maximum square footage based on lineal footage of building elevation
 
(Ord. 3294, 2019; Ord. 3100 § 1, 2011; Ord. 3017 § 1 (part), 2009; Ord. 2864 § 4, 2006; Ord. 2849 § 1 (part), 2006; Ord. 2770 § 1 (part), 2005; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004.)

17.74.160 Off-premise and outdoor advertising signs (billboards).

   Except as provided in § 17.74.070(H), outdoor advertising signs (billboards) are prohibited in the City of Corona. The city shall comply with all provisions of the California Business & Professions Code regarding amortization and removal of existing off-premise and outdoor advertising displays and billboard signs.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.200.) (Ord. 2864 § 2, 2006; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 1660 § 23, 1982.)

17.74.170 Nonconforming or abandoned signs.

   (A)   Nonconforming. Except as otherwise provided herein, any sign or other advertising structure which, though not conforming to the provisions of this chapter, has received approval prior to May 17, 2019 by both the Planning and Building Departments, the Planning Commission or City Council, as applicable, pursuant to the requirements of this chapter on the date of such approval, may continue, provided that the location of the sign is protected in place. The sign area can be altered to be consistent with the size requirement of the zone as set forth in § 17.74.150. Existing nonconforming signs that are removed or relocated on the property shall conform to the provisions of this chapter.
      (1)   Change in property size or configuration. If the size or configuration of a parcel or building is changed by the subdivision of the property, building addition, or demolition, the parcel and building identification signs on the resulting properties shall be made to conform to the sign regulations applicable to the newly created parcel or building at the time such change becomes effective.
      (2)   Repair and maintenance. A nonconforming sign may be maintained or repaired to address the provisions of § 17.74.180.
      (3)   Removal. Unless otherwise approved by the Planning Director in writing, removal of nonconforming signs shall be accomplished in the following manner:
         (a)   Signs painted on buildings, walls, or fences. By removal of the paint constituting the sign or by permanently painting over it in such a way that the sign shall not thereafter be or become visible; and
         (b)   Other signs. By removal of said signs, including its dependent structures and supports, or by modification, alteration, or replacement thereof in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.
   (B)   Abandoned signs. When a business establishment closes, relocates, changes names, or otherwise abandons any sign or structure, the owner of the property shall remove or cause to be removed, or obscure from view, or reface the sign within 30 days of the change of business. The sign structure shall be removed within six months unless new permits are obtained for the business and signage.
(Ord. 3294, 2019; Ord. 2770 § 1 (part), 2005; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004.)

17.74.180 Maintenance.

   It is unlawful for any person owning or controlling any sign and failing to keep such sign in a state of good repair at all times, with all braces, bolts, clips and supporting frame free from deterioration, termite infestation, rot, rust, peeling or fading of paint or general disrepair, loosening and such condition that at all times it will withstand wind pressures as provided in Chapter 15.04, or fail to keep the ground space within ten feet in all directions from the base of such sign free and clear of all weeds, rubbish or other inflammable waste.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.290.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2047 § 5 (part), 1991; Ord. 1660 § 30, 1982.)

17.74.190 Unsafe - Unauthorized.

   Except as provided in § 17.74.040(M)(3), if the Planning Director finds that any sign or other advertising structure related in this chapter is unsafe or hazardous to the public, or has been constructed or erected or is being maintained in violation of the provisions of this title, and if the director finds that such sign or advertising structure is not an immediate peril to persons or property, the director may initiate abatement proceedings pursuant to Chapter 8.32. The Planning Director may cause any sign or advertising structure which is an immediate peril to persons or property to be removed summarily after an attempt to reach the owner of the sign or billboard by telephone, and without notice if the peril does not allow time for telephonic notice.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.300.) (Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2146 § 2, 1993; Ord. 2047 § 5 (part), 1991; Ord. 1660 § 31, 1982.)

17.74.200 Signs illegally erected on public property or right-of-way - Violation - Removal - Costs.

   (A)   No person shall place, erect, extend, project over, suspend or maintain or cause to be placed, erected, extended, suspended or maintained any sign on public property or in the public right-of-way, unless otherwise permitted by this chapter. Such activity shall constitute a nuisance and the director of public works or his or her designee shall proceed in a summary manner to abate such nuisance by causing the illegal sign to be removed immediately.
   (B)   The cost of the removal of any sign by city forces pursuant to this section shall be borne by the actual responsible party. The cost of removal shall be the actual cost or the standard sign-removal cost set by resolution of the City Council. For purposes of this section, any information that appears on a sign that is removed may be used to establish that the person or venue listed on the sign is the actual responsible party including, but not limited to, information identifying the real estate broker, real estate brokerage firm, real estate agent, or other person associated with the firm; the owner or lessee of property used for a commercial activity or event; or the sponsor or promoter of a sporting event, concert, theatrical performance, or similar activity or event.
   (C)   Violations of this section may be prosecuted or addressed through issuance of administrative citations pursuant to Chapter 1.08 including, but not limited to, § 1.08.130(A), or through any other process or procedure established or allowed by this code or applicable law.
(`78 Code, § 17.74.310.) (Ord. 2805 § 1, 2006; Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004; Ord. 2286 § 5, 1996.)

17.74.210 Signs within adopted specific plan areas.

   Signs within adopted specific plan areas shall conform to the sign requirements as indicated within the individual specific plan. However, in the event sign requirements are not provided in the individual specific plans, all signs within the specific plan areas shall conform to the provisions of Chapter 17.74. If the land use within the specific plan is not specifically identified in Chapter 17.74, the most appropriate (closely related) use of the area shall apply, as determined by the Planning Director.
(Ord. 2729 § 4, 2004.)

17.74.220 Flags, banners and pennants on city-owned light poles.

   Notwithstanding § 17.74.080, the City of Corona may install flags, banners, and/or pennants on city-owned utility poles. The City Manager shall establish a written banner program to regulate the installation of flags, banners, and pennants on City- owned utility poles. Banners and pennants shall be installed in compliance with the banner program established by the City Manager. National, state, or local flags may be installed by the City without compliance with a banner program.
(Ord. 2853 § 2, 2006)

17.74.230 Signs and banners on and around City-owned sports facilities.

   Notwithstanding § 17.74.080, the City of Corona may install, or permit the installation of, signs and/or banners on City-owned light poles, fencing, scoreboards, and buildings that are part of or adjacent to sports facilities in City parks. The City Manager shall establish a written sports facility sign and banner program to regulate the installation of such signs and banners. The sign and banner program shall require that all signs and banners to be installed propose a commercial transaction. Signs and banners shall be installed in compliance with the sign and banner program established by the City Manager. National, state, or local flags may be installed by the City of Corona without compliance with a banner program. The intent of this section is to create a nonpublic forum open for a limited purpose on or around sports facilities in City-owned parks, purely for the purpose of raising revenue and not to create a public forum dedicated to expressive activities.
(Ord. 2889 § 2, 2007.)

17.74.240 City public service message signs on city-owned properties.

   Notwithstanding §§ 17.74.060(A), 17.74.130(H) and 17.74.210, the City of Corona may install city public service message signs, including electronic message center signs, on properties owned by the city in fee and on which city facilities or buildings are located. Each sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet and shall not exceed a height of 40 feet. Messages may not be changed at a rate faster than one message every four seconds, with an interval between messages of not less than one second. Allowed use of the public service message signs shall be established by City Council resolution; provided, however, that the intent of this section is to create a nonpublic forum open for a limited purpose on city-owned properties, purely for the purpose of advising the public of the city's public service messages and not to create a public forum dedicated to expressive activities.
(Ord. 3158 § 4, 2013.)