Hanford City Zoning Code
CHAPTER 17
56 SIGNS AND OUTDOOR ADVERTISING STRUCTURES
§ 17.56.010 Purpose.
A.
The purpose of this chapter is to regulate signs as an information system that preserves and enhances the aesthetic character and environmental values of Hanford, its residential neighborhoods, its downtown, and commercial/industrial areas, while also providing an effective means for members of the public to express themselves through the display of signs. These regulations recognize the importance of business activity to the economic vitality of the City as well as the need to protect the visual environment. Specifically, these regulations are intended to implement the General Plan and to:
1.
Provide minimum standards to safeguard life, health, property, public welfare, and traffic safety by controlling the design, quality of materials, construction, illumination, size, location and maintenance of signs and sign structures;
2.
Preserve and enhance the visual attractiveness of the City for residents, businesses, and visitors;
3.
Protect and enhance property values and community appearance by encouraging signs that are compatible with the architectural style, character, and scale of the building to which they relate and with adjacent buildings and businesses;
4.
Restrict signs that may create visual clutter or a nuisance to nearby properties, violate privacy, create hazards or unreasonable distractions for pedestrians and drivers;
5.
Provide adequate opportunity for the exercise of the free speech by display of a message or image on a sign, while balancing that opportunity with other community and public interests;
6.
Ensure that commercial signs are accessory or auxiliary to a principal business or establishment on the same premises, rather than functioning as general advertising for hire; and
7.
Prohibit signs that may cause traffic or pedestrian safety hazards or interfere with ingress and egress.
B.
It is the City's policy to regulate signs in a constitutional manner that is content neutral as to noncommercial messages which are within the protections of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the corollary provisions of the California Constitution.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.020 Applicability and severability.
This chapter regulates signs that are located or mounted on private property within the jurisdictional boundaries of Hanford. The provisions in this chapter apply in all Zoning Districts within the City. No sign within the regulatory scope of this chapter shall be erected or maintained anywhere in the City except in conformity with this chapter. If any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause term or word in this chapter is declared invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining portions of the chapter.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.030 No discrimination against noncommercial speech.
Subject to the property owner's consent, a noncommercial message of any type may be substituted, in whole or in part, for any commercial message or any other noncommercial message provided that the sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this title. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message. This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel, nor does it affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.040 Exempt signs.
A.
The following signs are exempt from the permit requirements of this chapter and do not count toward the total sign area limit for a site, provided that they conform to applicable standards:
1.
One nameplate per residence or business premises, mounted on a wall and not exceeding two square feet in area, identifying the owner and/or address of the property.
2.
Barber poles, not exceeding 18 inches in height, located in a nonresidential zone district and containing no lettering.
3.
Signs on vehicles, provided that the message pertains to the establishment of which the vehicle is an instrument or tool, and the sign does not utilize changeable copy or special illumination.
4.
Holiday and cultural observance decorations on private property that do not include commercial advertising. This exemption includes strings of lights associated with a holiday decoration.
5.
Official notices issued by a court or public agency and posted in the performance of a public duty; notices posted by a utility or other quasi-public agency; signs erected by a governmental agency to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic; noncommercial bus stop signs erected by a public transit agency, or other signs required or authorized by law. This exemption also covers signs and banners for special civic events erected by the City, which may be displayed in public rights-of-way.
6.
Signs that are located entirely within a building or enclosed structure and are not visible from the public right-of-way.
7.
Signs located on a private area of a lot that is not accessible by the general public, such as a backyard, and are not visible from the public right-of-way.
8.
Signs and menu display boards fixed to mobile vending carts, up to a maximum of eight square feet of sign area, plus a menu display board.
9.
Signs that are part of a vending machine.
11.
Signs mounted on carrier vehicles such as buses, taxicabs, and limousines that legally pass through the City.
13.
Directional signage without advertisement. Limited to the freestanding sign regulations.
B.
Exempt signs that have electrical connections or engineered supports shall obtain the appropriate building permit, as required by the California Building Code.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.050 Prohibited signs.
The following signs shall be prohibited in all zones:
A.
Signs illuminated with red, green, or amber light placed in such a position that it could reasonably be perceived to interfere with, or be confused with any official traffic control device, traffic signal, or official directional guide sign.
B.
Signs placed within 30 feet of the intersecting curb lines of a street, except for signs erected by a governmental agency to direct or regulate pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
C.
Signs so located as to prevent free ingress and egress from any door, window, or fire escape;
D.
Outdoor advertising structures located on a site other than the site on which the advertised commercial use is located or on which the advertised commercial product is produced.
E.
Signs extending above or beyond the face of the building, the fascia of the roof, the peak of a pitched roof, or the parapet line of a flat roof.
F.
Glaring, flashing, sparkling, glittering, twinkling, or shimmering signs.
G.
Signs with open letters that can be viewed from the reverse side.
H.
Streamers, balloons, blimps, or other floating, inflatable, or hanging devices secured with a rope or string, unless specifically permitted with a temporary use permit.
I.
Signs located, placed, or erected in or upon any public right-of-way, except as specifically allowed by this chapter.
J.
Signs located, placed or attached upon any tree, utility pole, or fence, except as specifically allowed by this chapter.
K.
Signs placed on private property without permission of the property owner.
L.
Nonconforming signs and sign structures associated with an activity, business, product or service that has not been sold, produced, provided or conducted on the premises for a period of 90 days;
M.
Signs that revolve or are animated, except public service signs, such as time and temperature units and barber poles;
N.
Signs containing statements, words, symbols, or characters of an obscene nature;
O.
Signs emitting sound;
P.
Murals that contain commercial speech.
Q.
Signs located within five feet of a fire hydrant, street sign, or traffic signal.
R.
Can or cabinet signs.
S.
Feather signs.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.060 Permits required.
A.
No sign shall be erected, altered, reconstructed, or relocated without a sign permit. A permit is not required for ordinary maintenance and repairs to signs and for temporary signs on private property that conform to the standards of this chapter. The Community Development Director will review all applications for sign permits for consistency with this chapter.
B.
Signs that project over or extend into a public street or sidewalk shall also require approval of an encroachment permit by the City Engineer pursuant to the provisions of Title 12 of the Municipal Code.
C.
Consent of the property owner or business owner is required before any sign permit may be approved.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.070 Sign design principles.
A.
The following sign design principles shall be used as criteria for review and approval of sign permits and master sign programs.
1.
Architectural Compatibility. A sign, including its supporting structure, if any, should be designed as an integral design element of a building's architecture and be architecturally compatible, including color and scale, with any building to which the sign is to be attached and with surrounding structures. A sign that covers a window or that spills over "natural" boundaries or architectural features and obliterates parts of upper floors of buildings is detrimental to visual order and will not be permitted. Common indicators of compatibility include quality sign design and construction, proportional size and scale; and use of materials, shapes and colors that complement the building's architectural style and the surrounding environment.
2.
Legibility. The size and proportion of the elements of the sign's message, including logos, letters, icons and other graphic images, should be selected based on the average distance and average travel speed of the viewer. Sign messages oriented towards pedestrians may be smaller than those oriented towards automobile drivers. Colors chosen for the sign text and/or graphics should have sufficient contrast with the sign background in order to be easily read during both day and night. Symbols and logos can be used in place of words. Substantial contrast should be provided between the color and materials of the background and the letters or symbols to make the sign easier to read.
3.
Readability. A sign message should be easily recognized and designed in a clear, unambiguous and concise manner, so that a viewer can understand or make sense of what appears on the sign.
4.
Visibility. A sign should be conspicuous and readily distinguishable from its surroundings so a viewer can easily see the information it communicates.
5.
Placement. Often, a building's architectural details create logical places for signage. Signs should not cover or interrupt architectural details or ornaments of a building's façade. On buildings with a monolithic or plain façade, signs can establish or continue appropriate design rhythm, scale and proportion. Well-designed and well-located retail signs create visual interest and continuity with other storefronts on the same or adjacent buildings.
6.
Materials. Signs shall be made of sturdy, durable materials. Paper, cardboard, or other material subject to rapid deterioration can only be used for signs that comply with applicable requirements for temporary signs in chapter 17.56. Fabric signs are restricted to awnings, flags, and temporary signs.
B.
Sign permits or master sign programs that are determined by the Community Development Director to be inconsistent with these sign design principles shall be denied.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.080 Rules for sign measurement.
A.
For the purposes of this chapter, lot frontage shall be calculated as follows:
B.
The building frontage shall be the building facade in which main customer access is provided to the establishment. A building's frontage is considered continuous if projections or recesses in the building facade do not exceed 15 feet in any direction. For buildings with two or more frontages, the length of the wall and allowable sign area shall be calculated separately for each building frontage.
C.
The area of an individual sign shall be calculated as follows.
1.
Sign area shall include the entire area within a single continuous perimeter composed of squares or rectangles that enclose the extreme limits of all sign elements, including, but not limited to, sign structures or borders, written copy, logos, symbols, illustrations, and color. Supporting structures such as sign bases and columns are not included in sign area provided that they contain no lettering or graphics except for addresses or required tags.
2.
Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located two feet or less from one another at all points, or located at an interior angle of 45 degrees or less from one another, the sign area shall be calculated as the area of one face. Where the two faces are not equal in size, the larger sign face shall be used. Where two faces of a double-faced sign are located more than two feet or 45 degrees from one another, both sign faces shall be counted toward sign area.
3.
On a three-faced sign, where at least one interior angle is 45 degrees or less, the sign area shall be calculated as the largest. In all other situations involving a sign with three or more sides, sign area shall be calculated as the sum of all faces.
4.
Three-Dimensional Signs. Signs that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), may have a sign area that is the sum of two adjacent sides of the smallest cube that will encompass the sign.
D.
The height of a sign shall be calculated as follows.
1.
The height of a sign that is not a freestanding sign shall be the vertical distance measured from the ground level directly beneath the sign to the highest point at the top of the sign, including any structural or architectural components of the sign.
2.
The height of a freestanding sign shall be measured as the vertical distance from grade at the edge of the right-of-way along which a freestanding sign is placed to the highest point of the freestanding sign, including any structural or architectural components of the sign. When the grade at the edge of the right-of-way is higher than the site on which the sign is placed, that portion of the sign below the grade at the edge of the right-of-way shall not be included in determining the freestanding sign's overall height. Freestanding signs oriented towards a freeway shall be measured from the site's finished grade or pad, whichever is lower.
E.
Sign clearance shall be measured as the smallest vertical distance between finished grade and the lowest point of the sign, including any framework or other embellishments.
F.
For the purpose of determining the allowed number and size of signs, an integrated shopping center shall be considered as one site.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.090 Sign regulations on developed sites by zone district.
For the purpose of this section, signs are grouped into four types: building signs, freestanding signs, temporary building signs, and temporary freestanding signs.
This section establishes standards for the number of signs, size of signs, placement of signs, and illumination of signs for developed sites based on the zone district in which the signs are located. Table 17.56.090(A) establishes specific regulations by zone district for building signs, and freestanding signs. Table 17.56.090(B) establishes specific regulations by zone district for temporary building signs, and temporary freestanding signs. Signs shall not be placed on private property except in conformance with Table 17.56.090(A) and Table 17.56.090(B).
Table 17.56.090(A) | ||
|---|---|---|
Number and Size of Permanent Signs by Zone | ||
Zone District | Building Signs | Freestanding Signs |
AP, R-L, R-M, and R-H zones with 4 or less residences per site | 1 sign per residence maximum. 4 sq. ft. maximum size per sign. Placement a maximum 8 feet high. External illumination only. None allowed. | |
AP, R-M, and R-H zones with 5 or more residences per site or with nonresidential uses on site | 1 sign per street frontage maximum. 30 sq. ft. maximum size per sign. Placement a minimum 5 feet below roofline. External illumination only. | 1 sign per site maximum. 20 sq. ft. maximum size. 6 feet high maximum. External illumination only. |
OR zone | 1 sign per site. 8 sq. ft. maximum size per sign. Placement a maximum 8 feet high. External illumination only. | 1 sign per site maximum. 20 sq. ft. maximum size. 6 feet high maximum. External illumination only. |
C-N, C-R, C-S, C-H, MX-N, MX-C, and O zones | No limit to number of signs per business establishment. Allowed square footage per building frontage is cumulative. Establishments with primary building frontage less than 300 feet: 2 sq. ft. per 1 lineal foot up to a maximum 350 sq. ft. along primary frontage. 50 sq. ft. allowed regardless of frontage length. Secondary building frontage: 1 sq. ft. per lineal foot up to a maximum 200 sq. ft. per secondary frontage. 35 sq. ft. allowed regardless of frontage length. Sites within 100 feet of State Route 198 may count the frontage facing State Route 198 as their primary frontage for the purpose of calculating maximum sign size. | 1 sign per establishment maximum. 40 sq. ft. maximum sign face size. 6 feet high maximum if set back 10 feet from property line. 5 feet high maximum if set back 5 feet from property line. 4 feet high maximum if set back 0 feet from property line. Sites with an integrated shopping center: 1 additional freestanding sign up to 350 sq. ft. Maximum height not greater than 1.5 times the average height of the building. |
I-L, and I-H zones | No limit to number of signs per business establishment. 500 sq. ft. maximum sign surface area per sign. 1,000 sq. ft. maximum sign surface area cumulative of all signs. 1 sq. ft. per lineal foot of property line adjoining a street, or 100 sq. ft. per acre of site area in use, whichever is greater, to a maximum of 600 sq. ft. of sign face. | 1 sign per frontage maximum. 40 sq. ft. maximum sign face size. 10 feet high maximum. Sites within 100 feet of State Route 198 may increase the maximum height to 50 feet. |
MX-D zone | 2 sq. ft. per 1 lineal foot of building frontage up to 100 sq. ft. on primary frontage. 1 sq. ft. per 1 lineal foot up to 100 sq. ft. on secondary frontage. External illumination or exposed neon illumination only. | None allowed. |
PF zone | 1 sign per street frontage maximum. 30 sq. ft. maximum size per sign. Placement a minimum 5 feet below roofline. External illumination only. | 1 sign per site maximum. 20 sq. ft. maximum size. 6 feet high maximum. External illumination only. |
CO zone | 1 sign per building maximum. 4 sq. ft. maximum size per sign. Placement a maximum 8 feet high. External illumination only. | None allowed. |
Table 17.56.090(B) | ||
|---|---|---|
Number and Size of Temporary Signs by Zone | ||
Zone District | Temporary Building Signs | Temporary Freestanding Signs |
AP, R-L, R-M, and R-H zones with 4 or less residences per site | 1 sign per site 12 sq. ft. maximum per sign. Placement a maximum 10 feet high. No illumination. | Up to 4 per site maximum. 16 cumulative sq. ft. maximum sign size. First sign maximum 5 feet high, all other signs maximum 2 feet high. No illumination. |
AP, R-M, and R-H zones with 5 or more residences per site or with nonresidential uses on site | 1 sign per street frontage. 32 sq. ft. maximum size per sign. Placement a minimum 5 feet below roofline. No illumination. | Up to 4 per site maximum. 32 cumulative sq. ft. maximum sign size. First sign maximum 5 feet high, all other signs maximum 2 feet high. No illumination. |
OR zone | 1 sign per site 12 sq. ft. maximum per sign. Placement a maximum 10 feet high. No illumination. | Up to 4 per site maximum. 16 cumulative sq. ft. maximum sign size. First sign maximum 5 feet high, all other signs maximum 2 feet high. No illumination. |
C-N, C-R, C-S, C-H, MX-N, MX-C, O, I-L, and I-H zones | 1 sign per establishment. 10 sq. ft. plus an additional 1 sq. ft. per 2 lineal feet of primary building frontage maximum size per sign. Placement a minimum 5 feet below roofline. No illumination | 1 sign per site, plus 1 additional sign for every 300 lineal feet of street frontage, rounded down to the nearest whole number. One half of signs, 32 sq. ft. maximum sign size. Other half of signs, 16 sq. ft. maximum sign size. 8 feet high maximum if more than 3 feet wide. 12 feet high maximum if 3 feet wide or less. No illumination. Sites within 100 feet of State Route 198 may increase the maximum size per sign to 50 sq. ft. and may increase the maximum height to 30 feet. |
MX-D zone | 1 sign per establishment. 10 sq. ft. per establishment, plus an additional 1 sq. ft. per 2 lineal feet of primary building frontage. No illumination. | 1 sign per site. 10 sq. ft. maximum sign size. If placed on sidewalk the sign shall allow for a minimum 4-foot wide path of travel. No illumination. Freestanding banners are not allowed. |
PF zone | 1 sign per street frontage. 32 sq. ft. maximum size per sign. Placement a minimum 5 feet below roofline. No illumination. | Up to 4 per site maximum. 32 cumulative sq. ft. maximum sign size. First sign maximum 5 feet high, all other signs maximum 2 feet high. No illumination. |
CO zone | None allowed. | Up to 4 per site maximum. 16 cumulative sq. ft. maximum sign size. First sign maximum 5 feet high, all other signs maximum 2 feet high. No illumination. |
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.100 Sign regulations on undeveloped or developing sites.
A.
Undeveloped sites shall be allowed a maximum one temporary freestanding sign of a maximum size of 32 square feet. Illumination of the sign is prohibited.
B.
Developing sites, i.e. construction sites, shall be allowed a maximum two temporary freestanding signs of a maximum size of 32 square feet each. Illumination is prohibited. Temporary signs that are not visible from any public right-of-way shall not be counted in the maximum number or size of signs.
C.
Residential subdivision sites where 10 or more new residences are offered for sale shall be allowed one temporary sign of a maximum size of 32 square feet. Illumination of the sign is prohibited. The sign shall not be made or constructed from cloth, bunting, plastic, paper or similar material. The sign may be mounted on a building, or may be a freestanding temporary sign of a maximum height of 12 feet. Additional temporary signs, temporary freestanding signs, and flags may be maintained within the boundaries of a residential subdivision provided that they are not visible from outside the residential subdivision and do not create a safety hazard by obstructing the clear view of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.110 Off-site temporary signs for residential subdivisions.
A.
Residential subdivision sites where 10 or more new residences are offered for sale shall be allowed up to four off-site temporary freestanding signs with a size not to exceed 32 square feet and a height not to exceed eight feet may be permitted per residential subdivision. Signs shall be located on private, nonresidential zoned parcels, or on private, residential zoned parcels that are part of an undeveloped residential subdivision (as defined in Section 17.56.310 of this chapter) and that are unoccupied, vacant and otherwise free from any structures or buildings. Signs shall not be made or constructed from cloth, bunting, plastic, paper or similar material. Banners and flags with or without an advertising message shall not be permitted offsite.
B.
In addition to any sign permitted pursuant to subsection A above, up to four nonilluminated off-site temporary freestanding signs in an A-frame configuration, with a size not to exceed 12 square feet per face or four feet in height, may be permitted per residential subdivision. A-frame signs shall be located on private, nonresidential property or on public property behind any existing sidewalks, and in such a manner so as to not to create a safety hazard by obstructing the clear view of, or otherwise hinder or impede, pedestrian and vehicular traffic. A-frame signs may only be displayed during the operating hours for the residential subdivision sales office, and may be located no further than 1,500 feet from the subject residential subdivision entry. A-frame signs may be allowed on residential zoned parcels within an undeveloped residential that is unoccupied, vacant and otherwise free from any structures or buildings.
C.
No more than one off-site temporary subdivision sign per parcel shall be allowed.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.120 Flags and flagpoles.
A.
Flags on flagpoles shall not count toward the maximum sign area.
B.
Flagpoles shall not be located within any required side or rear building setback areas. Flagpoles may be mounted on the ground or on the roof or wall of a building.
C.
The maximum height of a flagpole shall be as follows:
1.
Flagpoles located in a C-R, C-S, C-H, MX-C, I-L, or I-H zones shall have a maximum height of 50 feet or a maximum height equal to twice the distance from the base of the pole to the closest lot line, to a maximum of 100 feet, whichever is greater.
2.
Flagpoles located in the R-L, R-M, R-H, OR, AP, CO zones shall have a maximum height of 30 feet, mounted on the ground.
3.
Flagpoles located in the C-N, MX-N, O, and PF zones shall have a maximum height of 50 feet.
4.
Flagpoles located in the MX-D zone shall have a maximum height of 50 feet or a maximum height of 30 feet plus the height of a building upon which it is mounted, whichever is greater.
D.
The maximum width (hoist) of an individual flag on a ground-mounted or roof-mounted flagpole shall be equal to 20% of the height of the flagpole upon which it is located. The maximum length (fly) of an individual shall be twice the allowed width (hoist.)
E.
The maximum width (hoist) of an individual flag on a wall-mounted flagpole shall be a maximum six feet by 12 feet.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.130 Search lights and klieg lights.
Search lights and klieg lights are prohibited, except when used for public safety purposes or when specifically approved with a temporary use permit for a special event.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.140 Signs in public rights-of-way.
The following signs are allowed in the public right-of-way:
A.
Building signs in the MX-D zone that project into the public right-of-way, provided that the width of the projecting sign is a maximum of three feet, and that the bottom of the sign is seven feet above the sidewalk or finished grade below it.
B.
Building signs located on or under awnings in the MX-D zone that meet the provisions of this chapter.
C.
Temporary freestanding signs placed on the sidewalk in the MX-D zone that meet the provisions of this chapter and when a minimum four-foot wide clear path of travel is provided.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.150 Temporary sign standards.
A.
Temporary freestanding signs in nonresidential zones shall not be located:
1.
In any public right-of-way;
2.
In parking lot driving lanes, aisles or spaces;
3.
On multiuse trails or sidewalks if they would block a four-foot wide pedestrian path of travel;
4.
At any location where they would block pedestrian access;
5.
Within 100 feet on either side, or in front of a permanent freestanding sign;
6.
Within 20 feet from any other temporary freestanding sign; or
7.
Within 30 feet from a drive approach (driveway entrance) or intersection of two streets.
B.
Temporary building signs shall be removed after a period of 30 days. After removal, no temporary building sign may be placed on the site for a period of 30 days.
C.
Banners shall not be used as permanent signs.
D.
Banners shall be constructed of durable, weather-resistant materials not subject to rapid deterioration or fading and shall be professional in appearance. Acceptable materials include but are not limited to vinyl, nylon reinforced vinyl, polyethylene or polyester-like materials, or durable fabric.
E.
Temporary freestanding signs shall be affixed to supporting structures made of a durable, rigid material such as, without limitation, wood, plastic or metal. Feather banners must be secured and stabilized so as to withstand wind gusts, or be removed during windy conditions. Freestanding signs placed on sidewalks in conformance with this chapter are exempt from this subsection if they have a weight and mass that makes them not inadvertently movable.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.160 Size of signs on windows.
Permanent signs affixed to windows shall not cover more than 40% of each window. They shall not be counted toward the maximum allowable sign size.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.170 Signs with non-electronic changeable copy.
Non-electronic changeable copy shall represent no more than 20% of the total allowable sign area. Changeable copy shall not be changed more than once every 24 hours.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.180 Signs with electronic changeable copy.
A.
Electronic copy is allowed as a display medium on freestanding signs in the commercial or mixed use zone districts upon issuance of a conditional use permit, issued pursuant to Chapter 17.80.
B.
Signs with electronic changeable copy shall meet the following standards:
1.
The electronic sign face shall be directed in a manner that is not visible from the front or side of residential properties located in a residential zone district.
2.
The electronic sign face shall be an integral part of the remainder of the sign area.
3.
Electronic copy shall be limited to no more than 30 lumens output, measured at 10 feet from the sign face.
4.
No portion of the electronic sign face shall change more frequently than once every six seconds.
5.
The electronic sign shall not emit any audible sound, buzz, or noise.
6.
The electronic sign shall be operative only during the hours of operation of the associated business establishment.
7.
Sign copy or electronic picture displays shall be limited to advertising related to the use(s) on the premises on which the freestanding sign is located, except for message substitution, as allowed in Section 17.56.030.
8.
No change of lighting intensity may occur during a display or between displays except to respond to a change in ambient lighting conditions.
9.
No display shall create a potential distraction to drivers by virtue of the frequency of changes of images (i.e. the time between images expressed in seconds), and the Planning Commission may impose limitations on the number of images that can be displayed over a specified time period for reasons of traffic safety.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.190 Illumination of signs.
The illumination of signs, from either an internal or external source, must be designed to avoid negative impacts on surrounding rights-of-way and properties. The following standards apply to all illuminated signs:
A.
Sign lighting shall not be of an intensity or brightness that will create a nuisance for residential uses in a direct line of sight to the sign. Illuminated signs located adjacent to any residential area shall be controlled by a rheostat or other acceptable method to reduce glare.
B.
Internally illuminated signs shall be designed with an opaque, semi-opaque, or matte finish background on the sign face.
C.
Light sources for externally illuminated signs shall meet the following standards:
1.
Light sources shall be so arranged and maintained so that the light source is not directly visible from a public right-of-way or adjacent property.
2.
Low pressure sodium lighting is the preferred light source to minimize undesirable light into the night sky.
3.
High pressure sodium, metal halide, fluorescent, quartz, LED, and incandescent light sources shall be fully shielded.
4.
Metal halide and fluorescent light sources shall be filtered. Most glass, acrylic, or translucent enclosures satisfy these filter requirements.
5.
Mercury vapor light sources shall be prohibited.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.200 Concealed electrical systems.
External conduits, boxes, and other connections related to the function of a sign and associated lighting shall not be exposed.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.220 Master sign program.
A.
The purpose of the master sign program provisions is to provide a coordinated and flexible design approach to signage for Hanford's commercial shopping districts and office parks. A master sign program is required for any site that contains more than three commercial establishments.
B.
A master sign program shall be reviewed by the Community Development Director as an administrative use permit.
C.
A master sign program shall not be used to grant of a special privilege nor provide more visibility or exposure than is available to similarly situated properties.
D.
Master sign programs shall feature a unified and coordinated approach to the materials, color, size, type, placement and general design of signs proposed for a project or property.
E.
After approval of a master sign program, no sign shall be erected, placed, painted, or maintained, except in conformance with such program, and such program shall be enforced in the same way as any provision in this section.
F.
The master sign program and all conditions of approval shall be attached to the lease agreements for all leasable space subject to the master sign program.
G.
Approval of a master sign program does not waive the permit requirements for individual signs that are subject to the program.
H.
The Community Development Director may approve minor amendments to a master sign program that are in substantial conformance with the original approval. All other amendments, including amendments to conditions of approval, shall be processed as a new application. Proposed amendments shall include written concurrence by the property owner.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.230 Wall mural placement and design criteria.
The purpose of regulating murals is to ensure the continued visual aesthetic of the community, by allowing for compatible artistic and creative expression through murals in appropriate locations and designs. The review criteria seek to establish guidance as to the compatibility and appropriateness of the theme, location and design of murals, with minimal intrusion into artistic expression and/or the substantive, personal or political expressive content of the artwork.
A.
Wall Mural Definition. "Wall mural" or "mural" — means an art form consisting of paint applied to a wall surface depicting a scene, personal experience or observation. A wall mural is to be public art, not for the purpose of identifying, advertising or drawing attention to a particular business, service or economic activity. For the purpose of regulation, hand painted signs on walls that contain commercial speech are considered signs and are not considered murals. Wall painting that has not been approved through a mural permit is considered graffiti.
B.
Maximum Number of Murals per Site. One mural per structure. In unique circumstances, whereby the design of the mural(s) and structure are enhanced by additional murals, more than one mural per structure may be approved.
C.
No Advertising. Words and/or images may not be incorporated within the mural which specifically identifies or reflects the business, products and/or services provided by any business service or economic activity.
D.
Placement. Wall murals must be painted directly onto an exterior wall surface. Wall murals may not be prefabricated and thereafter mounted onto a building. Wall murals may occupy an entire single wall on which the mural is applied. The wall mural must be architecturally incorporated into the building so that it does not appear to be a sign attached to the building or have the appearance that the structure is ancillary to the mural. The wall mural may not be mounted on the building roof or extend above the cornice of a flat roof or above the roof eave of a gable or mansard roof. A mural may not be painted onto an unpainted historic surface, such as brick.
E.
Timing. A wall mural must be completed within 90 days after the date painting commences. The final anti-graffiti protective clear-coat must be applied within this 90 day period. Time extensions may be granted by the Community Development Director in 30 day increments up to a maximum of 60 days upon a showing of good cause.
F.
Lighting. Wall murals shall not be illuminated unless such lighting is incidentally and indirectly illuminated from surrounding street and building lighting.
G.
Ownership/Maintenance. Maintenance of the wall mural is the responsibility of the property owner. It shall be the property owner's responsibility to remove the wall mural if it is not maintained as required. Proper maintenance shall include periodic painting so that the wall mural does not exhibit chipping, peeling or fading and other required maintenance as identified in conditions of approval issued by the Community Development Director. Wall murals not maintained at all times as required shall be deemed a nuisance. In addition to its other remedies, the City shall have the right to require removal of the wall mural and if the wall mural is not removed within the time period designated by the City, the City shall have the right to remove the wall mural at the property owner's expense.
H.
Application and Permitting Process. No person shall paint a wall mural on the exterior of any structure or change any existing mural on the exterior of any structure prior to the issuance of a wall mural permit issued by the City Council. An application for a wall mural permit shall be submitted on the form prescribed by the Community Development Director and shall include a colored detailed drawing or sketch of the mural plus any other information as prescribed on the application form. The application must be made by the owner of the structure or include the written consent of the owner of the structure consenting to the painting of the wall mural on the structure consistent with the mural identified in the application. Applications for wall murals located within the Central Parking and Business Improvement District will be submitted to the Main Street Hanford Design Review Committee for a recommendation.
I.
Design Criteria. An application for a wall mural permit must satisfy the following criteria:
1.
Have a plan for painting the mural that ensures the safety of painters and the public, and that does not impede public access. In the event that the safety plan submitted is not being adhered to, and the City has identified a safety risk to either the artist and/or the public, the City has the right to stop work until such time that safety issues or concerns are addressed by the artist.
2.
To the extent feasible, the mural shall be vandal and graffiti resistant by using an approved graffiti/UV coating.
J.
Conditions of Approval. The City Council shall identify conditions of approval to the issuance of a wall mural permit.
K.
Hold Harmless. As a condition of approval of any wall mural permit, the applicant, the owner of the structure and the artist shall agree pursuant to language prepared by the City to indemnify, defend, and hold the City of Hanford its officials, officers, employees and agents harmless from and against any and all damages or liabilities of whatever nature arising out of or in connection with the wall mural.
§ 17.56.240 Variances and minor deviations.
A variance or a minor deviation to the standards in this chapter may be granted in accordance with Chapter 17.70 and Chapter 17.84.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.250 Nonconforming signs.
A sign or outdoor advertising display of any character lawfully occupying a site prior to the adoption of this zoning code or on the effective date of applicable amendments to the zoning code which as a result of the adoption or amendment to the zoning code does not conform with the standards for subject matter, location, size, lighting or movement prescribed for the district in which it is located, shall be deemed to be a nonconforming sign or outdoor advertising structure and may be displayed and maintained in said district, except as otherwise provided in this section.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.260 Maintenance of signs.
A.
All signs and associated supporting structures shall be maintained in like-new condition, without rips, tears, fading and similar damage that inevitably occurs as a result of normal wear and aging.
B.
All signs shall be reasonably free from deterioration, rot, rust, and loosening so that they do not create a hazard to persons or property or constitute a nuisance.
C.
Any sign or sign structure that is sagging, leaning, fallen, decayed, broken, deteriorated, ripped, torn, faded, or other deteriorating or dilapidated condition shall be promptly repaired, to the satisfaction of the City, or removed.
D.
Graffiti on a sign shall be removed within two days of notice of its placement on such sign.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.270 Hazardous signs.
Whenever any sign, by virtue of its physical nature and condition, poses an immediate and serious threat to the public safety, the same may be removed by City personnel, or its physical deficiency cured, to the extent necessary to protect the public safety. The cost of such removal or repair shall be assessed against the sign owner.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.280 Abandoned or obsolete signs.
An on-premises sign advertising an activity, business, service or product must be removed within 90 days following the actual discontinuance of the activity, business, service or product. If the sign is not so removed, the Community Development Director may have the sign removed in accordance with the public nuisance abatement provisions of this title. A sign structure is not required to be removed, however, the sign face shall be removed or replaced with a blank face or other sign face consistent with this chapter.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.290 Illegal signs.
Any sign, banner, or sign structure not erected, constructed or located in conformance with this chapter and not classified as a legal nonconforming sign is an illegal sign and is subject to abatement in accordance with the public nuisance abatement procedures of Chapter 17.94.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.300 Enforcement.
Signs which do not conform to the provisions of this chapter and are erected after its effective date and signs erected after the effective date of this chapter without obtaining a permit that is required are declared to be unlawful and a public nuisance. All signs declared to be unlawful by this chapter and all persons erecting or maintaining them shall be subject to the provisions of Chapter 17.94. The Community Development Director shall take necessary actions or proceedings for the abatement, removal and enjoinment pursuant to Chapter 17.94. The remedies provided for in this section are cumulative and nonexclusive.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.310 Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the following terms are defined in this section. The images are intended to illustrate some of the sign types that are defined in this section.
means a sign made of wood, plastic or other lighweight and rigid material having the capability to stand on its own support(s) and being portable and movable.
means a sign with action or motion, whether by flashing lights, color changes, wind, rotation, movement of any parts of the sign or letters or parts of the sign structure, or other motion.
means a shelter supported entirely from the exterior wall of a building and composed of a collapsible or non-collapsible frame covered completely with nonrigid material.
means any flexible material, such as cloth, plastic, vinyl, paper, cardboard or thin metal, with or without a "message", attached outdoors to a building, structure or mounting device, or attached indoors to a building, structure or mounting device so as to be visible from the exterior of a building, or structure. This definition includes a pennant, flag, or bunting.
means a sign which directs attention to a business, community service or entertainment not exclusively related to the premises where such sign is located. (A14)
means a specific business occupancy within a building or upon a parcel of land, typically having a specific address and discrete entrance(s) and exit(s) so as to maintain a specific business identity and location.
means a sign that contains all the text and/or logo symbols within a single enclosed box-shaped cabinet where the translucent face of the sign can be interchanged to change the sign message without having to remodel the cabinet. It is mounted to a wall or other surface and illuminated from within the cabinet.
refers to the display of a message that can change by means of moveable letters, slats, lights, light emitting diodes, or moveable background material.
means and includes erect, construct, place, relocate, enlarge, substantially alter, attach, suspend, paint, post, maintain and display.
means a sign which has light cast on its surface from an artificial exterior source installed for the purpose of illuminating the sign.
is a form of "banner" that is mounted and displayed outdoors on a pole.
means a sign which is permanently supported on the ground by one or more uprights, braces, poles, or other similar structural components that are not attached to any building. This category includes both monument and pole signs.
means the distance between the two most distant corners of a building measured in a straight line along the building face.
means the distance between the two most distant corners of a site along a single street measured in a line along the street curb, including drive approaches, but excluding curb returns at street intersections.
means the distance measured vertically from grade to the highest point or portion of the object to be measured.
means the act by which a sign is constructed or placed on land or a structure, or the act of attaching, painting, printing, producing, or reproducing, or using any other method or process by which a visual message is presented or placed upon a surface.
means any sign whose illumination originates from within the structure of the sign and the source of which is not visible from the exterior of the sign.
means any form of visual communication presented on any type of media. It is not material whether the communication has any logical, practical, literary, or artistic significance or not. It includes any form or combination of letters, graphics, symbols or designs. The term is not intended to include mono-color paint applied to the exterior, trim, fascia, or other architectural elements of a building for protection against the elements.
means a low-profile freestanding sign supported by a structural base or other solid structural features other than support poles and may contain signage on more than one side.
means a sign painted on the exterior wall of a building consisting of graphics or images, either alone or in combination with letters.
refers to a sign or banner that promotes or advertises goods, services or activities located or offered on a business premises or parcel that is separate from the parcel where the sign is located, even if the two sites or parcels are contiguous to each other.
refers to a sign or banner that promotes or advertises goods, services, or activity located or offered on the business premises or parcel of property where the sign is located.
means a structure erected or maintained for the main purpose displaying commercial outdoor advertising, and located on a site other than the site on which the advertised commercial use is located or on which the advertised commercial product is produced.
refers to the placement of a message on signs or banners located outdoors, or located indoors in a manner such that the message is visible from the exterior of a building or structure.
means a location on undeveloped property or to the exterior of a building or structure.
refers to a sign that comprises only paint applied on a building or structure.
means an exterior wall which extends vertically above the roof line.
or similar references or descriptions shall refer to a parcel of land under one ownership that has been legally subdivided or combined and is shown as a single parcel on the latest recorded map in the Kings County recorder's office.
means a doorway which has been designed for the primary use of the patrons or customers of that particular use.
means a sign that is solidly attached to a building, structure, or the ground by means of mounting brackets, bolts, welds, or other combination of attachment methods, thereby rendering the sign non-moveable or difficult to reposition without the use of machinery, cutting devices, or mechanical devices. See also "temporary sign."
includes constructing, erecting, posting, painting, printing, tacking, nailing, gluing, sticking, carving or otherwise fastening, affixing, or making visible in any manner whatsoever.
means a permanently mounted, freestanding sign which is supported above the ground by one or more uprights, braces, poles, or other similar structural components.
means the highest point of a parapet wall or the main roof structure or a highest point of a parapet wall other than such architectural features as cupolas, pylons, projections or raised portions of the roof.
means a sign that extends above the ridgeline of the roof of a building or a sign attached to any portion of the roof of a building. Rooftop or roof-mounted signs are not allowed.
means any letter or symbol made of cloth, metal, paint, paper, wood or other material of any kind whatsoever placed for advertising, identification or other similar purposes on the ground or on any wall, post, fence, building, structure, vehicle or on any place whatsoever.
means the geometric area of a sign including all elements such as board or frames, perforated or a solid background, ornamental embellishments, arrows or other sign media. For the purposes of a freestanding sign the structural elements necessary to support the sign are included in the sign area.
means any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign face and/or its structure with the purpose of attracting attention to the subject matter.
means the panel surface of a sign which carries the advertising, information, or identification message.
means any structure which supports or is capable of supporting any sign. A sign structure may or may not be an integral part of a building. For the purpose of a freestanding sign, the sign structure shall include the aggregate area of the sign including the sign copy and all structural elements of the sign.
means any change to the sign structure.
means a sign that is easily moveable and which is not attached to a building, structure, or the ground in such a manner as to be rendered a permanent sign.
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)
§ 17.56.320 Illustrations of signs.
The following illustrations may be used to visualize the various types of signs regulated in this chapter. This section shall not have any regulatory effect.
 Building Sign | |
 Hanging Sign |  Building Sign Projecting Over Right-of-Way |
 Permanent Sign Affixed to Window |  Permanent Sign Affixed to Awning |
 Monument Sign (Freestanding Sign) |  Pylon Sign (Freestanding Sign) |
(Ord. 17-04, 2017; Ord. 24-11, 12/3/2024)