Crescent City City Zoning Code
CHAPTER 17
39 SIGNS
§ 17.39.010 Purpose.
A.
The surroundings of the city are possessed of natural beauty having both giant redwoods and the Pacific Ocean at the disposal of its citizens. The city's economy is dependent on a vigorous local business economy, spawned in part by tourism and its residential environment. The purpose of this chapter is to regulate signs in the city. Signs have an obvious impact on the character, quality and economic health of the city. As a prominent part of the scenery, signs may attract the viewing public, affect the safety of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and help set the tone of the community.
B.
It is the intent of the city that this chapter emphasize the importance of business activity to the economic vitality of the city, help improve the ability of business owners and operators to identify their businesses to the community to enhance the furtherance of commerce, foster varied and interesting places of trade and promote public safety by making business signing visible to the passing public. This chapter is further intended to encourage the use of signs that:
1.
Protect and enhance the architectural character, harmony and natural beauty of the community, its buildings and its various neighborhoods and districts;
2.
Protect commercial districts from sign clutter;
3.
Protect the public's ability to identify users and premises without confusion;
4.
Eliminate unnecessary distractions which may jeopardize pedestrian or vehicular traffic safety;
5.
Are as small in size and few in number as is consistent with their purpose of communicating identification and essential information;
6.
Protect the right of the public to be directed, warned, advised and informed;
7.
Possess a satisfactory aesthetic effect and pleasing elements of design that relates to the form, proportion, material, surface treatment and position;
8.
Assure the maintenance of signs;
9.
Implement the community design objectives expressed in the general plan;
10.
Prohibit political signs on public utility or street sign poles because it is necessary to prevent visual distractions to motorists that create traffic hazards, prevent the obstruction of road hazards and road signs, and to prevent eyesores from proliferating along public streets;
11.
Regulate the size of political signs because it is necessary for safety and aesthetic reasons, specifically that the strong winds common in the city would remove the signs, creating hazards and accumulation of debris, and extremely large or illuminated signs would create a distraction to motorists.
C.
The general sign usage provisions and regulations of this chapter shall apply. The additional sign usage authorized hereunder shall be strictly construed in its application.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.020 Applicability.
A.
This chapter shall apply to on-premises advertising displays which meet any of the following criteria:
1.
On-premises advertising displays placed or constructed on or after January 17, 1996;
2.
Any on-premises advertising display placed or constructed on or before January 17, 1996 that was not in compliance with all ordinances and regulations in effect at the time of its construction and erection or use;
3.
Any on-premises advertising display which was lawfully erected, but whose use has ceased, or the structure upon which the display has been abandoned by its owner, for a period of not less than ninety days;
4.
Any on-premises advertising display which has been more than fifty percent destroyed, and the destruction is other than facial copy replacement, and the display cannot be repaired within thirty days of the date of its destruction;
5.
Any on-premises advertising display whose owner, outside of a change of copy, requests permission to remodel and remodels that advertising display, or expand or enlarge the building or land use upon which the advertising display is located, and the display is affected by the construction, enlargement or remodeling, or the cost of construction, enlargement or remodeling of the advertising display exceeds fifty percent of the cost of reconstruction of the building;
6.
Any on-premises advertising display for which there has been an agreement between the sign permit holder and the city for its removal as of any given date;
7.
Any on-premises advertising display which is a temporary sign;
8.
Any on-premises advertising display which is or may become a danger to the public or is unsafe;
9.
Any on-premises advertising display which constitutes a traffic hazard not created by relocation of streets or highways or by acts of any city or county;
10.
Except where the provisions of this chapter provide for earlier sign removal, on-premises advertising displays located in redevelopment project areas created pursuant to Community Redevelopment Law of Division 24 of the California Health and Safety Code, shall be removed or made to conform within sixty days after written notice by the community development department, in accordance with the following schedule:
Original Value of Sign | Amortization Period |
|---|---|
Less than $500.00 | One year |
$500.00 to $999.00 | Two years |
$1,000.00 to $2,999.00 | Four years |
$3,000.00 to $5,999.00 | Eight years |
More than $6,000.00 | Ten years |
The permit holder of a redevelopment area sign shall, upon written request of the community development department, furnish acceptable proof of the initial cost in the form of: (a) an original bill of sale, or (b) a depreciation schedule from state or federal income tax returns, or (c) a written appraisal by a sign manufacturer;
11.
Advertising displays located in areas listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places;
B.
Legal Nonconforming Signs.
1.
Legal nonconforming signs shall be removed or made to conform with the provisions of this chapter within sixty days after written notice by the community development department, when:
a.
The use of the premises changes and the exterior of the building or other site conditions are to be altered; or
b.
A sign is damaged or destroyed by any cause, to the extent that the cost of repairing or replacing it would be more than fifty percent of its value immediately prior to the damage; or
2.
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, nonconforming on-premises signs shall be made to conform to the provisions of this chapter upon the change of a name of any business, the relocation of any business, or an application for a sign for any business.
3.
General Provisions. A legal nonconforming sign may not be:
4.
Ordinary repair and maintenance may be made to a legal nonconforming sign provided that such maintenance and repair does not exceed twenty-five percent of the actual dollar value of the sign in any one year.
5.
Exceptions to the provisions of this section may be granted, in the form of a variance, by the planning commission upon the application of any owner of a sign who presents substantial evidence showing the following:
a.
There are exceptional circumstances applicable to the property on which the nonconforming sign is located, including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings which make it practically impossible to identify effectively the property to the public if strict application of all the provisions of these regulations are required; or
b.
The sign possesses unique features which make it a significant part of the community character of the area in which it is located.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.030 Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
means any sign or advertising display remaining in place or not maintained for a period of ninety days which no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product or service available on the business premises where the sign or display is located.
means the same as "sign."
means a sandwich board sign.
means any sign that is submitted as part of, or related to, the design of a building, or group of buildings, constructed for commercial purposes, and that has gone through an approved process of design review.
means any sign that is a part of or attached to an awning, canopy or other fabric, plastic, or nonpermanent structural protective cover over the doorway, window, patio or other part of the exterior of a building. A marquee is not an awning or a canopy.
means a nonporous bag containing a gas lighter than air causing it to rise and float above the ground.
means a sign made of flexible materials such as cloth, canvas, plastic or cardboard.
means a rapidly rotating fixed light giving the appearance of a flashing light.
means a residential dwelling occupied by a resident person or family, containing individual living quarters occupied on a transient basis for compensation, and in which a breakfast may be provided to the guests.
means a sign structure which is made available for lease or rent for the purpose of off-site advertising.
means a sign that is designed so that characters, letters or illustrations can be changed or rearranged without altering the face of the sign.
means an occasion or activity sponsored by either a governmental or quasi-governmental agency (such as the harbor district, city of Crescent City, Del Norte County, the Crescent City business and parking improvement district, or chamber of commerce) or by a not-for-profit organization (such as a church or a civic organization), the purpose of which is to benefit the community as a whole, either by raising funds through a specific event to address a specific issue (such as the United Way Ball), by publicizing the area to visitors (such as street fairs) or for the purpose of a community-wide celebration (such as the fourth of July).
means a temporary sign erected on the premises on which construction is taking place identifying the names of the persons or companies involved in the project.
means the line at the face of the curb nearest to the street or roadway. In the absence of a curb, the curbline shall be established by the public works director.
means an accessory sign designed to guide or direct pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
means the area made available by the sign structure, including the background area, for the purpose of displaying an advertising message.
means a sign with two faces only, with each face oriented one hundred eighty degrees from the other. Such sign may be a pole, projecting, hanging or roof sign.
means the public employee or officer designated by the legislative body of the city to perform the duties imposed by these regulations.
means a usually rectangular piece of fabric of distinctive design that is used as a symbol or as an attracting or signaling device. Corporate flags contain the name or logo of an incorporated business or organization. Governmental flags are duly recognized symbols of a city, state or nation.
means sudden bursts of light. In certain uses it appears to simulate movement.
means a sign not attached to any building and having its own support structure, such as a pole or a monument-style base.
means the distance in feet of a lot measured along a street right-of-way.
is a sign which directs attention to a business, commodity, industry or other activity which is sold, offered or conducted elsewhere than on the premises upon which such sign is located, or to which it is affixed, and which is sold, offered or conducted on such premises only incidentally if at all.
means the first thirty business days of a new business.
means the same as "monument sign."
means a sign that is suspended from the underside of a horizontal plane surface, such as a marquee, awning or canopy, or from a bracket, and which is supported by that surface or bracket.
means wording, symbols or pictures of a noncommercial nature which may be erected or displayed in reference to a specific seasonal, political or religious holiday. Sale announcements are not holiday decorations.
means a projecting sign having its greatest dimension in a horizontal direction.
means a sign giving the name, nature, logo, trademark or other identifying symbol of an establishment.
means a nonprofit, public or quasi-public use or institution such as a church, library, public or private school, hospital, or municipally owned or operated building, structure or land used for a public purpose.
means on-premises advertising displays which do not conform to the provisions of this chapter but which lawfully existed and were maintained prior to January 17, 1996.
means an emission of light produced by electrical action.
means a roof having two slopes on each side, with the lower slope steeper than the upper one.
means any permanent-roofed structure made of a nonflexible material, which is attached to and supported by a building, and which projects over public property.
means any sign other than a pole sign, placed upon or supported by the ground independent of any other structure.
means a decorative scene or graphic design painted on and made an integral part of a wall surface, and making no reference to a specific business or brand of product offered for sale on the premises.
means a small sign stating only the name and/or address of the occupant(s), and his or her profession or specialty. However, in the case of bed and breakfast establishments, only, nameplate additionally means a sign displaying the name of the establishment.
has the same definition as California Business and Professions Code Section 5490(b) as amended or supplanted.
Paper signs tacked or otherwise fastened to a side of a building or bulletin board, or outside of a window are temporary signs unless enclosed in a frame with a glass, Plexiglas or equivalent cover.
means the extension of the main walls of a building above the roof level, such as a false front. Parapet walls are often used to shield mechanical equipment or vents from view.
means a flag which tapers to one or two points. "Pennants" also refers to strings of small flags or strips which can be hung either attached to a building or across an open parking area.
means a nonpermanent announcement or sign in the form of a small card, such as a poster or plaque.
means a freestanding sign that is wholly supported by one or more posts or poles, free of braces or cables, either in the ground or in a concrete base.
means a sign that is not permanently attached to the ground or to a structure.
means a sign other than a wall sign or awning sign which projects out from and is supported by a wall of a building or structure.
means the distance by which a sign extends over or beyond the edge of a building.
means a public street, sidewalk or accessway.
means a sign of any size advertising real property for sale or lease, including "open house" signs.
means a sign whose face(s) turn round on an axis, usually a pole of any height.
means the same as "public right-of-way."
means the vertical distance measured from the average grade level of the building (the ground) to the highest point of the roof, ridge or parapet wall.
means a sign erected upon or above a roof or parapet of a building or structure.
means a portable sign consisting of two hinged boards designed to stand alone for display, and which may be folded and moved from place to place. Also known as an "A-frame."
means the minimum horizontal distance from the building to the property line as prescribed by this title.
means any writing, pictorial representation, symbol, banner, or other figure of similar character of any material that is used to identify, announce, direct attention to, communicate, inform or advertise.
means the area in square feet of the smallest rectangle enclosing the total exterior surface of a sign, or of one face of a double-faced sign.
means the vertical distance from the average grade at the base of the sign structure to the uppermost point of the sign.
means any structure that supports, or is capable of supporting any sign as defined in this chapter. A sign structure may be a single pole, several poles, frame structure, or solid base, or may be an integral part of a building.
means any advertising or attention-getting device which includes a part or parts which turn, gyrate or revolve rapidly.
means any long wavy strip, either free-floating or attached at both ends, as alongside a building or over a parking lot or other open area.
means that which is built or constructed; an edifice or building of any kind, or any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts joined in some definite manner; but not including fences, or walls used as fences that are three feet in height or less.
means the same as "hanging sign."
means any sign or advertising display constructed of fabric, canvas, paper, plywood or other such light material, not permanently erected, and constructed, created, intended or engineered to have a useful life of less than fifteen years. Temporary signs may include, but are not limited to vehicle and trailer signs, banners, balloons, sandwich boards and paper signs.
means any device which displays the current time and temperature, usually in the form of a clock and thermometer or an electronic digital display unit. Often such devices include the name or logo of the business upon whose premises the device is located.
means any sign mounted on a trailer or cart so as to be movable by being pulled about.
means the same as "spinner."
means any sign which is painted or mounted on an operating or nonoperating vehicle, which is parked on or adjacent to any property, the principal purpose of which is to attract attention to any business, service, product or an activity, or to convey a message for which other avenues of expression are readily available. For the purpose of this chapter, vehicle sign regulations shall not apply to business vehicles on which the business name or logo is painted or attached, and which are driven in the normal course of business activity.
means a projecting sign having its greatest dimension in a vertical direction.
means a single-faced sign painted on or attached parallel to a building or wall.
means a sign maintained in or painted upon a window so that its message can be seen from the exterior of the structure. Window signs do not include holiday decorations.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.040 Types-Generally.
The types of signs set forth in this section will be permitted for the various uses allowed in Sections 17.39.110 through 17.39.140 and must be limited to the restrictions set forth in Section 17.39.020, in addition to those required in Sections 17.39.050 through 17.39.080. Additional special use signs are also listed in this section.
A.
Signs having Double Faces. Pole signs, revolving signs and projecting signs may have double faces. Where such signs and marquees have double faces, and are included in the total sign area, the area of only one face need be included in the total area allowed. Where the two faces are of different areas, the larger of the two must be counted as part of the total sign area.
B.
Projecting Signs. Projecting signs identifying a business located on the premises shall be located no less than nine feet above the sidewalk, may not project above the roofline of a wall or building, and shall project into public property no more than thirty-six inches from the side of the building. The area of such sign shall be included in the total allowable aggregate sign area as provided in this chapter.
C.
Wall Signs.
1.
Flat wall sign(s) identifying each business conducted on the premises may be painted on the surface of the building or attached to the face of the building, no point of which shall project over eighteen inches from the face of the building. Wall signs shall not occupy more than fifty percent of the building surface envelope excluding window areas, and shall not project above the top of the wall or above the roofline of the building to which they are attached. The area of such sign shall be included in the total allowable aggregate sign area as provided in this chapter.
2.
On buildings which are two or more stories in height, but which are occupied above the first floor by other than the ground floor business, the first floor envelope shall extend to the bottom of the second floor window line. The second floor envelope shall extend from the bottom of the second floor window line to the bottom of the above floor window line, or to a line one and one-half feet below the roofline or top of the wall.
D.
Marquee Signs.
1.
For purposes of computing sign area, signs on the face of a marquee which is parallel to the front wall of a building shall be considered as part of the flat wall sign envelope, and signs on other faces of the marquee shall be considered as a double-faced projecting sign.
2.
Single-faced or double-faced signs placed under marquees or canopies shall be limited to a maximum size of eighteen inches high and sixty inches long, and shall be not less than nine feet from the sidewalk to the bottom of the sign. Only one side of these signs shall be used in computing total aggregate sign area.
E.
Pole or Freestanding Signs. Provisions for pole or freestanding signs shall be as follows:
1.
Minimum height in a vehicular area: fourteen feet to the bottom of the sign;
2.
Minimum height over a public pedestrian area: ten feet to the bottom of the sign;
3.
Maximum height: thirty feet to the top of the sign absent a variance;
4.
Minimum setback from the right-of-way line: one-half the distance from the road right-of-way line to the legal setback line;
5.
Only one pole sign shall be permitted per parcel where allowed;
6.
The minimum ground area of two feet around the perimeter of the base of all freestanding signs shall be landscaped. The community development director may exempt certain freestanding signs from this requirement where it is demonstrated by the applicant that the landscaping would unduly interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or where this requirement would be impossible to meet without compromising the stability of the sign structure.
F.
Monument or Ground Signs. Monument or ground signs shall not exceed five or ten feet in height, depending upon the regulations for the zone in which the sign is being placed, unless a variance for a higher sign has first been approved by the planning commission. Such signs shall not impede vehicle sight distance.
G.
Canopy or Awning Signs. Signage shall only be permitted on the valance of the canopy or awning, or as hanging signs suspended below the canopy. Hanging signs suspended below canopies shall not exceed eighteen inches in height or sixty inches in length, and shall be hung at a height not less than nine feet measured from the sidewalk to the bottom of the sign. Sign area shall be computed using only one face of the hanging sign.
H.
Architecturally Controlled Signs. Architecturally controlled signs for a special development of an unusual nature or size may be reviewed and approved if acceptable by the planning commission for their conformance with the intent of this chapter, with the goals of the general plan, and for their appropriateness to the type of development to which they are related. The determination that such a review is desired may be made by the community development director.
J.
Pennant Signs. Pennants signs include wind-blown signs, double-faced signs, free-standing signs, small pole signs, portable signs, revolving signs, temporary signs, and vertical signs.
K.
Not Otherwise Specified. Any sign that is not otherwise defined above, may be reviewed by the community development director for a determination as to which approval criteria shall apply based upon the similarity of characteristics of the undefined sign as compared to those sign types that are defined.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.050 Special provisions.
The following provisions shall apply to all signs generally permitted by this title:
A.
A sign permit must be issued before the display of any signs other than exempt signs.
B.
The use of any sign that is obnoxious in character or location or which is architecturally undesirable in the judgment of the community development director can be denied even though such sign complies with all other provisions of this title. The decision of the community development director is appealable to the planning commission. A fee may be charged to cover the cost of bringing the appeal before the planning commission.
C.
Materials used in the construction of signs and sign structures and the construction thereof shall comply with the Underwriters Laboratory and the latest adopted edition of the Uniform Sign Code, Uniform Building Code, National Electric Code, and other applicable laws and ordinances.
D.
Once constructed, the front and back of all signs and sign structures shall be fully painted and shall be maintained in a safe condition and neat appearance.
E.
Signs that tend to attract motorists to a roadway-oriented business shall not be lighted except during hours that the merchandise or services are available.
F.
Sign structures not used for signage purposes for more than twelve months shall be considered a nuisance and shall be removed.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.060 Sign permits.
A.
Terms. Sign permits may be revocable, conditional or valid for a term period, and may be issued only for the construction and display of signs as outlined in these provisions.
B.
Permits Required. A sign shall not hereafter be erected, re-erected, constructed, altered or maintained, except as provided by this code and only then after a permit for the same has been issued by the community development department. A separate permit shall be required for a sign or signs for each business entity, and a separate permit shall be required for each group of signs on a single supporting structure. In addition, electrical permits shall be obtained for electrical signs. Each application for a sign permit shall be reviewed by the city building inspector who is authorized to determine if a building permit shall additionally be required as a condition to the issuance of a sign permit. A building permit shall be required when the proposed sign's erection, re-erection, construction, alteration or maintenance may potentially adversely affect the public's health, safety or welfare. Sign permits may be issued to any person with a possessory or estatehold interest in the real property where the sign is sought to be placed or to a contractor licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs and employed by such person to perform the sign's erection, re-erection, construction, alteration or maintenance.
C.
Application for Permit.
1.
Application for a sign permit shall be made in writing upon forms furnished by the community development department. Such application shall contain the location by street and number of the proposed sign structure, as well as the name and address of the applicant and properly identify the applicant's interest in the real property where the sign is sought to be placed or as a contractor licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs employed to perform the sign's erection, re-erection, construction, alteration or maintenance. The application must be accompanied by plans and specifications for all signs to be constructed. Such plans and specifications shall specify:
a.
The materials of which the sign and its structure shall be constructed; and
b.
The sign's location on the property; and
c.
The type of construction to be used in the sign; and
d.
The message and pictorial representations which will appear on the sign(s); and
e.
The dimensions of its size; and
f.
Any other existing signage or display already on the property.
2.
Standard plans may be filed with the community development department.
3.
The application will be reviewed by the city's building and community development departments, and must be approved by each prior to the issuance of any sign permit. The applicant shall submit any additional information required by the city's building and community development departments.
D.
Fees. The sign permit application shall be accompanied by fees as established by resolution of the city council. In addition, signs subject to building and electrical permits shall be subject to the fees required for the issuance of those permits.
E.
Public Hearing. The planning commission may hold public hearings to discuss sign permit applications whenever it determines that such a hearing is in the public interest. The planning commission may, through the public hearing process, designate such conditions as it deems necessary to ensure compliance with the purposes of this chapter, and may require a guarantee or bond to be posted to that effect.
F.
Issuance. Within thirty days of receiving a complete application for a permit which is not contingent upon any action by the planning commission or on the issuance of any other permits, the application shall, in writing, be approved, conditionally approved or denied. Conditions imposed may only be such as will assure compliance with the provisions of these regulations.
G.
Inspections. All signs for which a building permit is required shall be subject to inspection as required by the building official. All signs may be reinspected at the discretion of the building official.
H.
Revocation.
1.
In any case where the conditions set forth in the approval of a sign permit have not been met, the permittee shall be noticed by certified mail, sent to the address shown on the sign permit application at least ten days prior to a hearing at which the status of the conditions are to be discussed. At the conclusion of the hearing, the planning commission may revoke the permit.
2.
In any case where an approved sign permit has not been used within six months after the date of approval, then, without further action by the city council or planning commission, the sign permit granted shall become null and void.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.070 Temporary permit required when.
The following types of signs and advertising devices are permitted with the issuance of a temporary permit from the community development department. The permit may impose conditions on the size, placement, structure, color, copy, conditions of removal or any other aspect of the display at the discretion of the community development director. Balloons may also be subject to approval by the building inspector, at his or her recommendation. A fee may be charged by the building department if an inspection of the balloon attachment is required.
A.
Grand Opening Signs, Banners or Balloons. Pennants, signs, banners and/or balloons for the promotion of the grand opening of a new business for a period of not more than the first ninety business days of a new business. A use permit must be granted by the planning commission in order to display such devices for any longer than ninety days;
B.
Promotional Signs, Banners or Balloons. Signs, banners, balloons, pennants or other advertising devices for the promotion of special sales or other business events lasting for a period of up to thirty days.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.080 Prohibited signs.
In addition to any sign or advertising display device not specifically allowed by these provisions, the following signs are prohibited.
A.
Signs having one or a combination of the following characteristics:
1.
Obscene or Offensive to Morals. Containing statements, words or pictures of an obscene, indecent or immoral character which, taken as a whole, appeal to the prurient interest in sex, and which signs are patently offensive and, when taken as a whole, do not have serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value,
2.
Imitative of Official Signs. Signs (other than when used for traffic direction) which contain the words stop, go, slow, caution, danger, warning or similar words, or signs which imitate or may be construed as other public notices, such as zoning violations, building permits, business licenses and the like;
B.
Moving signs having one or a combination of the following characteristics:
1.
Flashing lights or changing of color intensity,
2.
Wind-blown devices such as streamers, balloons, flares, propellers and similar attention-getting displays or devices with the exception of the following:
a.
National, state and/or local government flags properly displayed and maintained upon a permanently mounted flagpole or bracket,
b.
One corporate or logo flag of a size not to exceed any governmental flag displayed upon the same premises,
c.
Twirlers or spinners, provided a use permit has first been obtained from the planning commission,
d.
Holiday decorations, in season, displayed for an aggregate period not exceeding sixty days in any one calendar year, except no advertising of the business or products shall be permitted,
e.
Wind-blown signs such as pennants obtained through a standard sign permit.
3.
Where there is any production of smoke, sound or other substances;
C.
Portable or temporary signs, including sandwich boards and pennants, except as permitted;
D.
Obstructive to Use or Visibility—Hazardous Locations. No sign shall be erected in any manner which, in whole or in part, would create a hazardous condition to pedestrians or traffic alike, either by creating visual distraction, being color, sounds or glare, or by representing a traffic-control device; and
E.
Signs in one or more of the following locations:
1.
Within Public Places.
a.
Within any public street, sidewalk, public parking lot, or right-of-way, unless they shall maintain a minimum clearance of fourteen feet above the adjoining grade level and after acquiring an encroachment permit from the Department of Public Works, except marquee signs as defined by this chapter, unless specifically provided for in this chapter,
b.
Furthermore, no person except a duly authorized public officer or employee shall erect, construct, maintain, paste, print, nail, tack or otherwise fasten or affix any card, banner, flag, pennant, handbill, campaign sign, poster, sign, advertisement, or notice of any kind, or cause or suffer the same to be done, on any curbstone, lamppost, driveway, roadway, parkway, sidewalk, street, light standard, fire hydrant, bench, electrical light pole, power pole, telephone pole, traffic signal, bridge, wall, tree, parking meter, or on any other public property, except as may be required or permitted by ordinance or law; provided, that this provision shall not prohibit the placement, use and maintenance of warning signs designating street construction or repair and/or the location of underground utility lines,
c.
Any flags, pennants, sign, handbill, campaign sign, poster or notice of any kind that is placed upon a public street or public property in violation of this subsection is declared to be a public nuisance and may be summarily abated in addition to other remedies provided by this code,
2.
Roof signs, except mansard roof signs,
3.
Projecting. Signs projecting more than thirty-six inches from the face of a building shall not be allowed except for awning or canopy signs,
4.
Signs on Vehicles. No vehicle may be used as a platform or substitute for a billboard, freestanding sign or movable sign, whether parked on private property or the public right-of-way. The parking of any such vehicle on any street or on public or private property, or the movement of any such vehicle in and/or along any street for the sole or primary purpose of displaying advertising matter is declared to be a nuisance and a violation of this Section. The following exceptions are permissible under these regulations:
a.
The driving, operation and movement of vehicles displaying political campaign advertisements for candidates for public office or for ballot measures, provided the same is not otherwise prohibited by this section,
b.
The identification of a business enterprise upon a vehicle used primarily for the purpose of and in the usual business of the owner for transporting or servicing goods or persons for commercial or other business purposes, provided that the identification is painted on or otherwise affixed so as not to project from the usual profile of the vehicle,
c.
The incidental display of noncommercial stickers, plates, license plate brackets and the like; or of customary small identifications on license plate brackets or elsewhere, of vehicle manufacturers, models or types of vehicles, or dealers or entities from whom vehicles bearing the same were purchased or otherwise obtained,
d.
A single isolated movement of a sign or sign equipment or materials from one place to another within the city,
e.
Vehicles located on construction sites that are directly involved with ongoing construction,
5.
Miscellaneous Temporary Signs and Posters. The tacking, posting or otherwise affixing of signs of a miscellaneous character, visible from a public way, located on the walls of buildings, barns or sheds, on trees, poles, posts, fences, or other structures shall be prohibited, unless specifically permitted by this chapter;
F.
Abandoned Signs.
1.
In addition to the other requirements imposed by this chapter, signs advertising an activity, business, product or service no longer conducted on the premises on which the sign is located, or sign frames, structural members or supporting poles remaining unused for twelve months or longer, shall be removed from the site. Signs will be considered abandoned or dilapidated where the sign or any element of it is excessively weathered or structurally unsound or where the copy can no longer be seen or understood by a person with normal eyesight under normal viewing conditions,
2.
This provision may be waived for set periods of time at the discretion of the community development director;
G.
General advertising signs.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.090 Variances.
A.
Generally. When practical difficulties, unnecessary hardships or results inconsistent with the general intent and stated purpose of this chapter occur by reason of the strict application of the standards set forth in these regulations, a sign variance may be requested.
B.
Application.
1.
A request for a sign variance shall be made by submitting a completed permit application form and appropriate filing fee to the community development department, along with all supporting documentation pertinent to the situation, such as maps, photographs or sketches.
2.
The request for variance shall be set for public hearing on the earliest available meeting date of the planning commission. The appellant shall be notified in writing of the meeting date. Notice of the hearing shall be published in a newspaper of general local circulation at least ten days prior to the hearing. The hearing may be continued from time to time.
C.
Required Findings. The planning commission must make the following findings in order to approve a sign variance:
1.
The strict application of the standards contained in this chapter deprives the appellant's property of privileges enjoyed by other property owners in the same vicinity and under identical use classification due to special circumstances applicable to the property including size, shape, topography, location or surroundings; and
2.
The variance does not constitute a grant of special privilege inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity with the same use classifications as the subject property.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.100 Appeals.
A.
Appeals. Any person aggrieved by an action of the planning commission, or by city staff, may make an appeal of that decision. Appeals of decisions made by the planning department staff shall be submitted to the planning commission. Appeals of decisions made by the planning commission shall be submitted to the city clerk for review by the city council. Decisions of the city council are final, with the exception of coastal zone appealable areas. Decisions of approval for sign development(s) within the coastal zone appealable area may be appealed to the California Coastal Commission. Decisions of denial for development within such zones are final.
B.
Application for Appeal. Application for appeal is made by filing a written request for appeal, along with any required appeal filing fee, within ten days of the action. The request must specify:
1.
The person making the appeal, and their place of residence; and
2.
The location of the proposed sign(s); and
3.
The specific items of appeal and all supporting documentation; and
4.
The basis for the appeal, and any information substantiating that basis (for example, failure to comply with the city's general plan or with state or local laws, or reasons why the action would adversely affect surrounding property, the neighborhood or the city); and
5.
The relief of action sought.
C.
Appeal Process.
1.
Who May Appeal. In case the applicant or any other person is not satisfied with any decision to approve or deny a sign permit, they may appeal such decision as provided in this subsection.
2.
Appeal Letter Requirements. The appeal letter shall specify:
a.
The person making the appeal;
b.
The specific items of appeal and all supporting documentation;
c.
The basis for such appeal and information substantiating the basis for appeal (e.g., failure to comply with the city's general plan, state or local laws or stating reasons why the action of the planning director or the planning commission would adversely affect surrounding property, the neighborhood, and/or the city);
d.
The relief of action sought.
3.
Where and How to Appeal.
a.
Decisions of the planning director may be appealed to the planning commission, and decisions of the planning commission may be appealed to the city council. Any appeal must be submitted in writing within ten calendar days of the decision and shall be accompanied by an appeal filing fee. Appeals of decisions of the planning director shall be submitted to the planning commission. Appeals of decisions of the planning commission shall be submitted to the city clerk. The appeal shall be agendized for consideration on the earliest available meeting date as determined by the city, but no later than thirty days from receipt of the appeal and filing fee. The appellant shall be notified in writing of the meeting date. In an appeal, the burden of proof is upon the appellant.
b.
The appropriate reviewing authority shall consider the appeal and the record upon which the action appealed from was taken, and may, at its own discretion, cause the matter to be set for a public hearing.
c.
If the appropriate reviewing authority causes the matter to be set for a public hearing, notice of the hearing shall be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation, printed and published in the city, at least ten days before the hearing. The hearing may be continued from time to time.
d.
Within thirty days of the filing of the notice of appeal, the appropriate reviewing authority shall render its decision on the matter. Failure of the appropriate reviewing authority to render its decision on the matter within thirty days of the filing of the notice of appeal shall be deemed to be denial of the appeal and an affirmation of the action of the planning commission. The decision of the city council upon appeal is final and conclusive as to all things involved in the matter.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.110 Residential zones.
The following signs are permitted in the city's residentially zoned districts (R1, R2, R3, CZ-R1, CZ-R1B, CZ-R2):
A.
1.
Institutional uses such as churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, community centers and/or public agency buildings such as fire or police stations may have wall, ground or monument signs with an area not to exceed one-half square foot of sign area for each linear foot of street frontage.
2.
For parcels with multiple street frontages the allowable sign area shall be one-half square foot for each linear foot of the longest street frontage plus one-quarter square foot for each additional linear foot of frontage.
3.
A sign permit shall be required for these uses, unless the entity or agency is categorically exempt.
B.
Apartment complexes with four or more units may have one monument sign per street frontage not to exceed twenty-four square feet of area and five feet in height. A sign permit shall be required.
C.
Approved and licensed home occupations, including day care homes, shall be allowed one name-plate not to exceed two square feet in size, stating the occupant's name, address and/or profession. A sign permit shall not be required for the nameplate.
D.
Bed and Breakfast Establishments. Bed and breakfast establishments within residential zones may be permitted one sign per establishment. The sign may be one of the following:
1.
One sign not to exceed twenty square feet in size. The sign may be a wall sign, hanging sign, or ground or monument sign not to exceed five feet in height. The sign shall be constructed of nonplastic materials, and only low-level lighting exterior illumination to light the sign shall be permitted. The sign must have approval of the community development department, and a sign permit shall be required.
2.
One nameplate sign, made of nonplastic materials, not to exceed two square feet in size. The nameplate may bear the proprietor's name, address, and/or the name of the establishment. A sign permit shall not be required for the nameplate.
E.
Sandwich board signs or A-frame signs, with a valid business license or nonprofit business license exemption.
F.
Pennant signs, with a valid business license or nonprofit business license exemption.
G.
Exempt Signs. No permit required.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.120 Residential-professional zones (RP and CZ-RP).
A.
Sign Types Permitted. The following signs are permitted for licensed businesses in the city's residential-professional zoned districts (RP and CZ-RP):
1.
Wall signs;
2.
Canopy signs;
3.
Monument or ground signs not to exceed five feet in height, and not to impede vehicle sight distance;
4.
Institutional uses such as churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, community centers and/or public agency buildings such as fire or police stations may have a wall, ground or monument sign. A sign permit is required for these uses;
5.
Sandwich board signs or A-frame signs, with a valid business license or nonprofit business license exemption.
6.
Pennant signs, with a valid business license or nonprofit business license exemption.
7.
Exempt Signs. No permit required.
B.
Allowable Sign Area.
1.
The allowable sign area for nonresidential uses in the residential-professional districts is not to exceed one-half square foot of sign area for each linear foot of street frontage.
2.
For parcels with multiple street frontages the allowable sign area shall be one-half square foot for each linear foot of the longest street frontage plus one-quarter square foot for each additional linear foot of frontage.
3.
Canopy signs are not included in the total sign area of the property.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.130 Limited commercial (C1) and commercial-waterfront (CW) zones.
A.
Sign Types Permitted. The following signs are permitted for licensed businesses in the city's limited commercial and commercial-waterfront zoning districts (C1 and CW):
1.
Wall signs;
2.
Canopy signs;
3.
Marquee signs;
4.
Monument or ground signs not to exceed five feet in height;
5.
Institutional uses such as churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, community centers and/or public agency buildings such as fire or police stations may have a ground or monument sign. A sign permit is required for these uses;
6.
Hanging signs;
7.
Projecting signs;
8.
Window signs;
9.
Sandwich board signs or A-frame signs.
10.
Pennant signs.
11.
Exempt Signs. No permit required.
C.
Allowable Sign Area.
1.
The allowable sign area for nonresidential uses is not to exceed one square foot of sign area for each linear foot of street frontage.
2.
For parcels with multiple street frontages the allowable sign area shall be one square foot for each linear foot of the longest street frontage plus one-half square foot for each additional linear foot of frontage.
3.
No sign for any business shall exceed one hundred square feet, nor shall any business be restricted to less than twenty square feet of total sign area.
4.
Buildings with over thirty thousand square feet of floor area shall be allowed to have one one-hundred-fifty-square-foot wall sign. Such sign shall be included in the total sign area for the parcel.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.140 General commercial (C2), coastal zone general commercial (CZ-C2), highway services (HS), coastal zone highway services (CZ-HS), coastal zone harbor-related (CZ-HR) and commercial-manufacturing (CM) zones.
A.
Sign Types Permitted. The following signs are permitted for licensed businesses in the city's general commercial (C2), coastal zone general commercial (CZ-C2), highway services (HS), coastal zone high-way services (CZ-HS), coastal zone harbor-related (CZ-HR) and commercial-manufacturing (CM) zoning districts:
1.
Wall signs;
2.
Awning or canopy signs;
3.
Marquee signs;
4.
Monument or ground signs not to exceed ten feet in height;
5.
Institutional uses such as churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, community centers and/or public agency buildings such as fire or police stations may have a ground or monument sign. A sign permit is required for these uses;
6.
Hanging signs;
7.
Projecting signs;
8.
Window signs;
9.
Changeable copy signs;
10.
Pole signs;
11.
Banners. One promotional banner per street frontage. The banner must be mounted flat against the building, and must be maintained in a good condition. Tattered or torn banners must be removed;
12.
Sandwich board signs or A-frame signs.
13.
Pennant signs.
14.
Exempt Signs. No permit required.
B.
Use Permit Required. Twirlers or spinners are prohibited in these zones unless a use permit has first been approved by the planning commission.
C.
Allowable Sign Area.
1.
The allowable sign area for businesses in the general commercial (C2), coastal zone general commercial (CZ-C2), highway services (HS), coastal zone highway services (CZ-HS), coastal zone harbor-related (CZ-HR) and commercial-manufacturing (CM) districts is not to exceed one and one-half square feet of sign area for each linear foot of street frontage.
2.
Every business shall be permitted at least twenty square feet of sign area. No sign may exceed one hundred fifty square feet of sign area, with the exception of buildings of greater than thirty thousand square feet in size, which are permitted to have one wall sign of two hundred square feet.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.150 Illumination.
All signs shall be subject to the following restrictions upon illumination:
A.
Light from any illuminated sign shall be shaded, shielded or directed so that its intensity or brightness shall not be objectionable to surrounding areas and uses.
B.
Except for public service signs such as time and temperature units and official traffic signs, no flashing lights, beacons or other interrupted illuminating devices shall be permitted.
C.
Illuminated signs are prohibited except in commercial districts.
D.
Illuminated signs shall not be lighted at night unless the service or product is available at that time.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.160 Community promotion signs.
A.
Murals. Murals with no commercial message shall be allowed in all nonresidential zones, and on commercial use buildings in the residential-professional zones. The design must have the approval of the architectural review committee. All murals shall be maintained in a clean and tidy condition.
B.
Vertical Banners. Decorative banners with no commercial message, designed to enhance the community's appearance, may be erected by not-for-profit agencies on the city's street light poles. Such banners may also be displayed by private businesses on poles located on private property. Approval must first be granted by the city council who may ask to see a sample banner before making their decision. The banners must be maintained in a good condition, with any torn or tattered banners being removed or repaired promptly. The city reserves the right to have any such banner(s) removed if it is felt that it no longer contributes to the aesthetic enhancement of the community.
C.
Horizontal Banners. Street banners advertising public entertainment, community events or celebrations, or fund-raising events by community-oriented not-for-profit organizations may be installed if approved by the public works department at locations designated by the public works director. The banners may be installed fourteen days before the event begins, and must be removed no later than seven days after the end of the event. A Cal-Trans encroachment permit must be obtained if the banner will encroach upon a state highway.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.170 Exempt signs.
Except for the regulation relating to construction, maintenance, public nuisance and safety the following types of nonilluminated signs shall be allowed without a sign permit and shall not be included in the determination of the type, number or area of signs allowed per business or parcel, or by zoning district:
A.
Nameplates. Nameplate signs not exceeding two square feet in display surface, and which are attached flat against the building. One per residential dwelling unit, office or business;
B.
Public Signs. Signs of a public, noncommercial nature which are placed by a duly recognized governmental agency, including, but not limited to directional signs, safety signs, handicapped parking signs and signs identifying places of scenic or historical interest;
C.
Rental, or Room and Board Signs. One sign per frontage, not exceeding four square feet in area, announcing room and board, room, apartment or other dwelling unit for rent;
D.
Directional Signs. One sign not to exceed three square feet per entrance or exit, indicating traffic movement onto, from or within a premises;
E.
Construction Signs. Signs identifying the names of the architects, engineers, contractors or other involved professionals of a building, development or subdivision under construction, alteration, repair or formation. The signs may also identify the character of the enterprise or the purpose for which the building or development is intended. Such signs may be placed on the property or attached to the outside of the building or on-site construction office only during the period of time when the project is actively under construction. Such signs may not exceed thirty-two square feet in any commercial zone, or nine square feet in any residential zone, except as required by any governmental entity. The sign(s) must be removed before a certificate of occupancy will be issued;
F.
Real Estate and Subdivision Signs. One unlighted sign per frontage stating that the site is for rent or sale by the owner or named agent and giving information regarding size, price and terms. Such signs may be placed in the yard or attached to the outside of the building. Freestanding real estate signs may not exceed three and one-half feet in height from the ground level to the top of the sign. Real estate signs may not exceed nine square feet in area. Real estate signs larger than nine square feet will require a building permit;
G.
Political Campaign Signs.
1.
It is the intent of this code to exempt campaign signs from the regulations of this chapter relative to the placement of general advertising signs in all zones of the city, and to thereby encourage participation by the electorate in political activity during the period of political campaigns, but to permit such uses subject to regulations that will assure that political signs will be located, constructed and removed in a manner so as to assure the public safety and general welfare and to avoid the creation of a public nuisance caused by the proliferation of political advertising which would be offensive to the senses and would interfere with the comfort and enjoyment of life or property. It is the purpose of the council, in adopting this chapter to provide such regulations as will contribute to the public safety and general welfare and insure the right of political expression to all members of the community,
2.
Signs or posters announcing candidates seeking elective office, or encouraging a particular stance on a measure before the popular vote. Each sign located on private property, shall be placed only with the permission of the property owner or tenant, and posted in such a way as to not constitute a public nuisance or safety hazard, and may not block the views of vehicular traffic or obstruct the public right-of-way,
3.
Campaign Signs in a Public Right-of-Way. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a campaign sign may be placed in the public right-of-way adjacent to a public street in commercially or industrially zoned areas or along prime or major arterials in residentially zoned areas subject to the following restrictions:
a.
No sign shall be attached to any utility pole, public structure, pole or structure supporting a traffic-control sign or device, or hydrant,
b.
No sign shall be placed on any tree or shrub by any nail, tack, spike or other method that will cause physical harm to the tree or shrub,
c.
No sign shall be placed in such a manner as to obstruct the public use of the sidewalk or interfere with the visibility of persons operating motor vehicles or constitute a hazard to persons using the public road or right-of-way,
d.
No sign shall be placed in the roadway or on the sidewalk,
e.
No sign shall be placed in that portion of the public right-of-way or easement past the sidewalk without the consent of the adjoining property owner or person in possession if different from the owner,
4.
No political sign shall be posted more than forty-five days prior to, or ten days following an election;
H.
No Trespassing Signs. One sign per street frontage, not to exceed four square feet in area indicating limitation on the use of private property by other than the owners. If more than one sign per frontage is needed the property owner or business person may apply to the planning commission for a use permit;
I.
Customer or Tenant Parking Only Signs. One sign per street frontage, not to exceed four square feet in area. The sign shall contain any of the following appropriate restrictions:
1.
Customer parking only,
2.
Tenant parking only, or
3.
Private property, no parking, The sign shall also contain the telephone number of the city police department. The lettering on the sign must contrast with the background of the sign and be at least two inches high, and made with a one-half inch stroke. The sign shall also contain the words "Violators May Be Towed." If more than one sign per frontage is needed the property owners or business person may apply for a use permit;
J.
Window signs;
K.
Awning or canopy signs;
L.
Corporate flags and governmental flags;
M.
Garage Sale, Moving Sale, or Yard Sale Signs. Signs announcing the date(s) and location of a garage sale, moving sale or yard sale. Such signs shall not be posted in a manner which will block a public right-of-way, or which will block the vision of vehicular traffic. The signs must be removed once the date of the sale is passed;
N.
Banners. One banner advertising products or services for sale on the premises per street frontage per business;
O.
Barbershop Poles. Barber poles projecting not over eighteen inches from the face of the building where the barbershop is located or not projecting into the public right-of-way;
P.
Holiday Decorations. Displays of a decorative, noncommercial nature for the purpose of celebrating a seasonal, political or religious holiday or a recognized community celebration, in season, for an aggregate period of not more than sixty days in one calendar year;
Q.
Temporary or Seasonal Sales Booths. Signs including, but not limited to, fireworks stands, pumpkin sales, Christmas tree lots, community crafts fairs, temporary certified farmer's markets, and similar signs;
R.
Community or Special Event Signs, Including Banners. Signs and banners for noncommercial promotional events of a civic, charitable, educational, religious or community service organizations provided any applicable encroachment permit has been obtained from other governmental entities having jurisdiction. The signs or banners must be removed within fourteen days after the event.
(Ord. 672 § 5; Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)
§ 17.39.180 Historical signs.
Signs which have historical significance to the community but do not conform to the provisions of these regulations may be issued a permit to remain provided the planning commission makes the following findings:
A.
The sign has historical significance for the community.
B.
The sign does not create a traffic hazard.
C.
The sign does not create a visual nuisance to the character of the community.
D.
The sign is properly maintained and structurally sound, or can be made so as part of an historical designation or preservation process.
E.
The sign does not adversely affect adjacent properties.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.190 Enforcement.
A.
Administration.
1.
All actions taken by department heads, officials, or other employees of the city vested with the duty or authority to issue any permit, license or certificate shall conform to the provisions of this chapter and shall issue no permit, license or certificate for uses, buildings, or structures or purposes in conflict with the provisions contained in this chapter. Any permit, certificate or license issued in conflict with the provisions of this chapter shall be void.
2.
The community development director, public works director, building official, code enforcement officer, or other person authorized by the city manager, shall be authorized to enforce provisions of this chapter and to issue citations and make arrests pursuant to state and city codes.
b.
The building official or designee shall be responsible for the following functions:
i.
Inspections of signs and installation of signs;
ii.
Inspections of purported violations of this chapter;
iii.
The enforcement of this chapter by issuing final inspection approval of sign installations;
iv.
Determination whether the sign applicant must apply for a building and/or electrical permit in addition to a sign permit.
B.
Right of Entry. Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of this code, or whenever the community development director, enforcement officer or their designee has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any building or upon any premises any condition which makes such building or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous or may otherwise be in violation of the code, the community development director, enforcement officer or their designee may enter such building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect the same or to perform any duty imposed by this code.
C.
Violations. Any sign or sign structure erected, constructed, altered, enlarged, converted, moved or maintained contrary to the provisions of this chapter and any use of land, building or premises established, conducted, operated or maintained contrary to the provisions of this chapter shall be and is declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance. All necessary legal proceedings for the abatement, removal and enjoinment thereof may be instituted in the manner provided by law and other steps as may be necessary to accomplish these ends may be utilized to apply to a court of competent jurisdiction to grant such relief as will remove and abate the structure or use and restrain and enjoin the person, firm, corporation or an organization from erecting, moving, altering or enlarging the structure or using the site contrary to the provisions of this chapter. The remedies prescribed by this section are cumulative and not exclusive.
D.
Procedure.
1.
The city manager, community development director, building official, city attorney or their designee may serve notice requiring the removal of any structure or use in violation of this chapter on the owner or the owner's authorized agent, on a tenant or on an architect, builder, contractor or other person who commits or participates in any violation.
2.
In the event of a violation of this chapter or any regulation made under authority conferred herein, in addition to other remedies, the city attorney may institute any appropriate criminal prosecution, civil action or other proceedings to punish the perpetrator of such violation; to prevent such unlawful erection, movement, alteration, enlargement, maintenance or use; to restrain, enjoin, connect or abate such violation; to prevent the occupancy of such building, structure or land; or to prevent any illegal act, conduct, business or use in or about such premises.
E.
Stop Work Orders. Whenever any sign work is being done contrary to the provisions of this chapter, the city manager, community development director, building official, city attorney or their designee may order the work stopped by notice in writing served on any persons engaged in doing such work or in causing such work to be done. Any such persons shall forthwith stop such work until authorized by the city to proceed with the work.
F.
Revocation of Permit. Any permit issued under the terms of this chapter may be revoked by the community development director, public works director or building official when it appears that the sign has been erected or maintained in violation of the provisions of this chapter or any other ordinance or law. No such permit revocation shall be effective until the planning commission affirms the revocation after a hearing set for that purpose. Written notice of the time and place of such hearing shall be given to the permit holder at least ten days before the date set for the hearing. The notice shall contain a brief statement of the grounds for revoking the permit. Notice may be given either by personal delivery or by deposit in the United States mail a sealed envelope, registered mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid and addressed to the permit holder.
G.
Owner to Remove Signs. Within thirty days after the revocation of any permit as provided in subsection F of this section, or within ten days after affirmance of such revocation the sign or signs described in such revocation shall be removed by the former permit holder. If such removal is not completed within that time, the community development department shall cause such sign to be removed, and permit holder shall be liable to city for all costs reasonably associated with the sign removal including, but not limited to, all fees, salaries (including benefits) and disposal charges.
I.
Removal—Assessment of Costs. The costs involved in the removal of signs by the city shall become a special assessment against the real property upon which the sign is located. The community development department shall notify, in writing, all persons having an interest of record in the official records of the county assessor of the amount of such assessment resulting from such work. Within five days of the service of such notice, any person having any right, title or interest in the property or any part thereof, may file with the planning commission a written request for a hearing on the correctness and/or reasonableness of such assessment. In the event of such timely written request, the planning commission shall set the matter for hearing, give such person reasonable notice thereof by first class mail, postage prepaid, hold such hearing, and determine the reasonableness and/or correctness of the assessment. The planning commission shall notify, by first class mail, postage prepaid, all such persons making such request of its decision in writing within five days thereof. If the total assessment determined as provided for in this section is not paid in full within ten days after receipt of such notice, the community development department shall record in the office of the county recorder a statement of the total balance still due and a legal description of the property. From the date of such recording, such balance due shall be a special assessment against the property.
J.
Collection of Assessments. The assessment shall be collected at the same time and in the same manner as ordinary county taxes are collected, and shall be subject to the same penalties and same procedure and sale in case of delinquency as provided for ordinary county taxes. All laws applicable to the levy, collection and enforcement of county taxes shall be applicable to such special assessment.
K.
Violation—Penalty. Any person, firm or corporation violating any provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor or an infraction as charged per the prosecutorial discretion of the city attorney. Such person, firm or corporation shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each day during any portion of which any violation of this chapter is committed, continued or permitted by such person, firm or corporation.
L.
Nuisance Abatement. The city council determines that the public peace, safety, morals, health and welfare require that all signs and advertising structures heretofore constructed or erected in violation of any ordinance of the city in effect at the time such sign was constructed or erected be and are hereby made subject to the same provisions of this section. Such signs shall be made to conform and comply with this chapter as soon as reasonably possible after January 17, 1996. All signs and advertising structures that are not made to conform and comply within a reasonable time shall be and are declared to be public nuisances and may be abated in the manner provided. All signs and advertising structures which are structurally unsafe, which constitute a fire hazard or which are otherwise dangerous to human life, or which constitute any hazard to safety, health or public welfare by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence, fire hazard, disaster, damage or abandonment, as specified in this chapter or any other effective ordinance, are, for the purposes of this section, unsafe signs or sign structures. All such unsafe signs or sign structures are declared to be public nuisances and shall be abated by repair, rehabilitation, demolition or removal.
(Ord. 672 § 5)
§ 17.39.200 Matrix of regulations.
SIZE REGULATIONS | Single-Family Res. Zones (R1, R1B, CZ-R1, CZ-RIB) | Multiple-Family Res. Zones (R2, CZ-R2, R3) | Apts. of 4 or more units (R3) | Residential-Professional Zones (RP and CZ-RP) | Limited Com. and Com. Wat. (C1, CZ-C1, CW,CZ-CW) | General Com. and Hwy. Services (C2, CZ-C2, HS, CZ-HS) | Commercial Manufacturing (CM) | Coastal Zone-Harbor-Related (CZ-HR) | Bed and Breakfast Establishments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nameplates, 2 sq. ft. of sign area, nonilluminated | X | X | X | X | X | ||||
1/2 sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of frontage | X | ||||||||
1/2 sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of frontage plus 1/4 sq. ft. of sign area for each ft. of frontage for multiple frontages | X | X | X | X | |||||
1 sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of frontage | X | ||||||||
1 sq. ft. of sign are for each linear ft. of frontage plus 1/2 sq. ft. of sign area for each ft. of frontage for multiple frontages | X | ||||||||
1 and 1/2 sq. ft. of sign area for each linear ft. of frontage | X | X | X | ||||||
Projecting sign extending not more than 36 inches from building | X | X | X | X | |||||
One sign not to exceed 20 sq. ft. in area | X | ||||||||
Maximum sign area 100 sq. ft. per face | X | ||||||||
Maximum sign area 150 sq. ft. per face | X | ||||||||
Construction signs not to exceed 32 sq. ft. in area | X | X | X | X | |||||
Construction signs not to exceed 9 sq. ft. in area | X | X | X | X | X | ||||
Real estate signs not to exceed 9 sq. ft. in area and 3 1/2 ft. in height | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
HEIGHT REGULATIONS: | |||||||||
30 foot maximum to top of pole sign | X | X | X | ||||||
14 ft. minimum to bottom of pole sign in a vehicular area | X | X | X | ||||||
10 ft. minimum to bottom of pole sign in a pedestrian area | X | X | X | ||||||
Ground or monument sign not to exceed 5 ft. in height and 20 sq. ft. in area | X | ||||||||
Ground or monument sign not to exceed 5 ft. in height and 24 sq. ft. in area | X | ||||||||
Ground or monument sign not to exceed 5 ft. in height | X | X | |||||||
Ground or monument sign not to exceed 10 ft. in height | X | X | X | ||||||
One pole sign per parcel | X | X | X | ||||||
SIGN TYPE REGULATIONS: | |||||||||
Wall signs | X | X | X | X | X | ||||
Awning or canopy signs | X | X | X | X | X | ||||
Marquee signs | X | X | X | X | |||||
Monument or ground signs | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||
Hanging signs | X | X | X | X | |||||
Projecting signs | X | X | X | X | |||||
Sandwich boards or A-frame signs | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |
Pennant signs | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |
Window signs | X | X | X | X | X | ||||
Changeable copy signs | X | X | X | ||||||
Pole signs | X | X | X | ||||||
Banners | X | X | X | ||||||
Nameplate signs | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |
Illuminated signs | X | X | X | X |
(Ord. 839, 10/7/2024)