(b)   The provisions of this chapter apply to those structures which require a building permit and/or extend two feet or more above a standard six-foot-high privacy fence.

   (c)   Chapter 21.42 identifies permitted accessory uses and the operation of such uses.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Enclosed and/or solid-roofed structures that contain less than one hundred twenty square feet of enclosed floor area and where no portion of the structure is equal to or greater than eight feet in height. Such structures shall not be located in a required front yard.

   (2)   Play equipment that covers an area no greater than one hundred twenty square feet and with no portion of the structure equal to or greater than eight feet in height. Play equipment shall not be located in the required front yard.

   (3)   Decks and patios that are less than thirty inches above natural grade, are not over any basement or story below, and are unenclosed except for a safety railing with a maximum height of forty-two inches.

   (4)   Pools and fish ponds that cover an area no greater than one hundred twenty square feet (including related equipment), contain less than two thousand gallons of water, and are less than three feet in depth.

   (5)   Mechanical and HVAC equipment (including pool equipment) in residential side and rear yards, provided that a minimum three-foot clearance is maintained for pedestrian access from the rear door(s) of the residence to the street.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   To maintain necessary fire clearance, all combustible accessory structures shall be set back a minimum of three feet from side and rear property lines, with a minimum six-foot separation between structures. For the purpose of compliance with minimum structural fire breaks, minimum setback distances for accessory structures from property lines and between accessory structures shall include all portions of the structure(s) (e.g., overhangs, projections, railings).

 

1.   If a permanent structure is located within a utility easement community development director authorization is required prior to issuance of a building permit.

2.   Accessory structures which are enclosed and solid-roofed shall be included in the calculation of maximum lot coverage.

3.   The minimum setback distance shall be consistent with the minimum setback distance for the main structure in the applicable zoning district. Structures are not permitted in the required front yard area.

4.   If located within the street-side yard of a corner lot abutting a key lot, the setback distance from the street shall be equal to the minimum front yard setback for the key lot.

5.   Detached garage structures with access from an adjacent alley shall be located a minimum of 25 feet from the opposite side of the alley.

6.   Minor structures that are part of a landscape plan may be located in the required front yard area if otherwise in compliance with the minimum landscape requirements of this title.

7.   The minimum distance between structures is required if one or both structures are combustible.

8.   In accordance with uniform code requirements adopted by the city, pools shall be set back a minimum of 10 feet from any sliding glass door opening.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Use and Maintenance of Portable Canopy or Tarp. No portable canopy or tarp shall be placed, maintained, installed, or located in or upon any parcel used for residential purposes, in any residential district of the city, except within an "approved area". For purposes of this section, "approved area" means and includes an area that is enclosed by a solid fence or other permanent structure on all sides, that is not less than six feet high, and not located within any required setback or other area of a parcel required to be unobstructed. Each portable canopy or tarp permitted by this section shall be securely anchored to the ground or other structure, in conformance with the building code of the city, so as to prevent movement during high winds.

   (c)   Penalty for Violation of Provisions. Violation of this section constitutes a misdemeanor and is punishable as provided in Chapter 1.08 of this Code. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, partnership or corporation to violate any provision, or to fail to comply with any of the requirements of this section. Any person, firm, partnership, or corporation violating any provision of this section, or failing to comply with any of its requirements, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each such person, firm, partnership or corporation shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or any portion thereof during which any violation of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person, firm, partnership or corporation, and shall be deemed punishable as provided in this section.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   “Arterial wall” is any fence or wall, including retaining wall, which is immediately adjacent to or abuts a major/minor arterial roadway.

   (2)   “Electrified fence” means a fence or similar barrier that has electricity running through it to deter animals and people from crossing a boundary.

   (3)   “Fence” means a solid or open barrier, other than a wall, located above ground and intended to enclose or mark a boundary.

   (4)   “Major/minor arterial roadways” means a roadway designated a major or minor roadway on the city's General Plan.

   (5)   “Retaining wall” means a wall designed to resist lateral earth and/or fluid pressures, including any surcharge, in accordance with accepted engineering practice.

   (6)   “Slope” means an inclined ground surface, the inclination of which is expressed as a ratio of horizontal distance to vertical distance.

   (7)   “Structural compromise” is when a building or structure has been potentially compromised. The owner shall cause a structural inspection of the building or structure to be performed by a certified engineer when a structure is deemed to be compromised.

   (8)   “Structural failure” refers to loss of the load-carrying capacity of a component or member within a structure or of the structure itself. Structural failure is initiated when the material is stressed to its strength limit, thus causing fracture or excessive deformations. A licensed engineer shall review and determine when a retaining wall or wall show signs of structural failure.

   (9)   “Surcharge” is a vertical load imposed on the retained soil that may impose a lateral force in addition to the lateral earth pressure of the retained soil.

   (10)   “Wall” means a physical barrier constructed largely of masonry, brick, concrete, stucco, concrete block, or any combination thereof and intended to mark a boundary.

(Ord. 710, § 6, 2019; Ord. 650, § 6, 2012).

(Ord. 650, § 7, 2012; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Fences and walls less than thirty-six inches in height.

   (2)   Retaining walls less than four feet in height, as measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.

(Ord. 710, § 7, 2019).

 

 

1.   For commercial and industrial development, the designated approving authority may approve a fence or wall up to a maximum height of 10 feet in compliance with location and clear vision requirements of this title.

2.   A protective fence enclosing any public property or an open area for games or a swimming pool shall not be subject to the limitations if constructed of wire or steel mesh capable of transmitting at least 90 percent of the light shining onto it.

   (b)   Measurement of Fence or Wall Height.

      (1)   For the purposes of this chapter, fence and wall height shall be measured as the vertical distance from the ground elevation or finished grade of the property on which the fence or wall is erected to the highest point of the fence or wall. However, the height of retaining walls shall be measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the retaining wall. To allow for variation in topography, the height of a fence or a wall may vary up to six inches.

      (2)   Where there is a difference in the ground elevation or finished grade between two adjoining parcels of less than two feet, the height of any fence or wall constructed along the common property line shall be determined by using the finished grade of the highest contiguous parcel. When there is a difference in the ground level between two adjacent parcels of two feet or more, the height of a fence or wall shall be determined by the community development director. The community development director shall consider the physical and visual fence height impact on abutting properties.

   (c)   Walls Required Between Different Zoning Districts and Uses.

      (1)   Along the common boundary between a residential zoning district or use and a commercial or industrial zoning district and/or use, a minimum six-foot-high decorative solid masonry wall shall be constructed to serve as a visual screen and buffer between uses.

      (2)   Along the common boundary between any single-family zoning district or use and multi-family residential zoning districts and/or uses, a minimum six-foot-high decorative solid masonry wall shall be constructed to serve as a visual screen and buffer between uses.

(Ord. 650, § 9, 2012; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

To safeguard against vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian collisions caused by visual obstructions at street intersections, a clear cross-visibility area shall be maintained at the intersection of the public rights-of-way, unobstructed by any fence or wall taller than forty-two inches above the street grade. See Figure 21.62.050.

   (1)   On any corner lot: a triangular area at the street intersection measuring fifteen feet along each street property line (or the projections thereof parallel to the centerlines of the streets) from the point of intersection of such property lines (or the projections thereof);

   (2)   At the intersection of an alley with a street, or at the intersection of two alleys: a triangular area measuring fifteen feet along each street or alley property line from the point of intersection of the property lines;

   (3)   At any driveway entrance from or exit to a street: triangular areas on each side of the driveway measuring fifteen feet along the street property line and fifteen feet along the edge of the driveway from the point of intersection of the edge of the driveway with the street property line.

(Ord. 650, § 10, 2012; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   Any fence or wall, including retaining walls located immediately abutting or parallel to any major or minor arterial street in the city shall be required to comply with the following design criteria:

   (1)   All such arterial walls, including retaining walls, shall be constructed of split-face tan color masonry block. The block wall shall have a decorative cap as approved by the planning division. At the discretion of the community development director, the decorative cap may extend beyond the height limitation.

   (2)   When fifty percent or more of the wall area of an existing wall or fence is reconstructed, changed, altered, redesigned or added, all the provisions of this section shall apply to the entire arterial wall.

   (3)   All fences and walls visible from a major or minor arterial roadway, including such walls or fence which are visible from, but not directly adjacent to such highways and streets, shall be maintained in good physical and aesthetic conditions at all times pursuant to Chapter 21.72 of the La Mirada Municipal Code.

(Ord. 650, § 11, 2012; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   All such fences or walls shall be constructed of precision block, slump stone, split face block, construction block with stucco covering, durable hardwood or vinyl material. The finish, materials, color, and texture, shall complement the existing main structure and must be approved by the planning division prior to construction. Masonry block shall have a decorative cap.

   (2)   When fifty percent or more of the wall area of an existing wall or fence is reconstructed, changed, altered, redesigned, or added, all the provisions of this section shall apply.

   (3)   All fences and walls shall be maintained in good physical and aesthetic condition at all times pursuant to Chapter 21.72 of the La Mirada Municipal Code.

(Ord. 650, § 12, 2012; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (a)   Location. Electrified fences shall be prohibited in all zoning districts, except for the following:

      (1)   Industrial (M-2) Zoning District, provided the electrified fence is not located along a property line that abuts property in a residential zone or property used for residential purposes; and provided the electrified fence is not located within a required setback.

      (2)   Freeway Commercial (C-F) Zoning District, provided the electrified fence is only located along the rear and interior side property line that abuts a railroad right-of-way, flood control channel, waterway, or Industrial (M-2) zoned property and provided the electrified fence is not located within the required front yard setback.

      (3)   Temporary Location Exemption. A request for a temporary exemption from the permitted locations noted in numbers (1) and (2) above may be made via a zoning clearance/plan check application.

         i.   In addition to the documents/plans required for submittal of a zoning clearance/plan check application submittal, the application shall also include the following:

            1.   Clear statement of the condition(s) that exist to warrant the requested exemption.

            2.   Clear justification for the approval of the requested location exemption.

            3.   Time period for the temporary exemption, start and end dates.

         ii.   The installation being proposed under an exemption shall comply with the Development Standards for Electrified Fences listed within the subsection 21.62.075(c).

         iii.   The following are required when granting a location exemption:

            1.   The property under application is located within the Industrial (M-2) or Freeway Commercial (C-F) Zoning District.

            2.   The condition(s) that exists for requesting the exemption is beyond the control of the applicant, business owner and property owner of the site making the request.

            3.   The condition(s) that exists for requesting the exemption is temporary.

            4.   The location of the temporary installation does not create a safety hazard for pedestrians, motorist or others.

            5.   The time period requested for the temporary location exemption is reasonable.

         iv.   In the event the condition that warranted the approval is cured prior to the expiration of the approved time period, the installation shall be removed within 30 days of written notice from the City of La Mirada.

         v.   Appeals shall be subject to the procedures in Chapter 21.88 of Title 21 of this municipal code.

         vi.   Approval of a location exemption shall not be final until an agreement between the applicant, business owner, property owner and the City of La Mirada is executed. The agreement shall be prepared by the city attorney and executed by the city manager. The fee for preparation of the agreement shall be established by separate city council resolution.

   (b)   Permit requirement. Electrified fences shall require approval of a Zoning Clearance Application pursuant to Chapter 21.96 to ensure compliance with the applicable regulations of this section, chapter and title. Electrified fences shall also be reviewed and approved by the County of Los Angeles Fire Department prior to being granted all necessary Building and Electrical permits.

   (c)   Development Standards. Electrified fences shall comply with the following standards:

      (1)   Electrified fences shall be installed as to be as minimally intrusive as possible.

      (2)   Electrified fences should utilize horizontal electrified wires and minimal vertical post.

      (3)   Height. Electrified fences parallel to a street shall not exceed eight feet in height and electrified fences along a rear or interior side property line shall not exceed ten feet in height.

      (4)   Electrified fencing shall be completely surrounded by a non-electrified perimeter fence or wall that is not less than six feet high. Where an electrified fence is visible to the public, the perimeter fence or wall shall be 100% view obscuring. Vehicle access gates along a public right-of-way may be exempted from this requirement.

      (5)   The spacing between the electrified fence and perimeter fence or wall shall not be greater than eighteen inches and the area between the two shall be kept free of trash, debris and overgrown vegetation.

      (6)   No barbed, concertina, or similar wire shall be attached to the electrified fence or perimeter fence or wall, and any existing barbed, concertina, or similar wire attached to any fence or structure on the subject site shall be removed.

      (7)   Electrification. Electrified fences shall be constructed or installed in conformance with applicable provisions of the Los Angeles County Electrical Code, California Electrical Code (CEC) and/or International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards for electric fence energizers.

      (8)   The energizer for electric fences must be driven by a commercial storage battery not to exceed 12 volts DC or other system as approved by the County of Los Angeles, Building and Safety Division.

      (9)   The electric charge produced by the fence upon contact shall not exceed the energizer limitations imposed by the Los Angeles County Electrical Code, California Electrical Code (CEC) and/or International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards for electric fence energizers as approved by the County of Los Angeles, Building and Safety Division.

      (10)   Warning signs. Electrified fences shall be clearly identified with legible warning signs that read, "Warning: Electric Fence" and shall include a universal symbol indicating the presence of an electrified fence. Such signs shall be installed at each gate and access point, and on the perimeter fence or wall at intervals not exceeding thirty feet. The warning signs shall be visible on both sides of the fence and shall be no smaller than twelve inches by eighteen inches. The warning signs shall be kept in good condition to ensure visibility and readability.

      (11)   Owner/management company contact. A notice shall be posted at each pedestrian and vehicle gate indicating a twenty-four-hour contact person's name and phone number.

   (d)   Emergency Access. A "Knox Box," disconnect switches and/or other similar approved devices shall be installed for emergency access as may be required by the County of Los Angeles Sheriff and Fire Departments. When required, disconnect switches and controls shall be installed in an easily accessible location on the property, shall not be obscured in any manner from the street/private driveway access and shall be clearly identified with signs. In the event of an emergency or urgent circumstance requiring that the County Sheriff and/or Fire Departments access a property with a permitted electrified fence, and the Knox Box or other similar approved device is absent or non-functional, and an owner, manager, employee, custodian, or any other person with control over the property is not present to disable the electrified fence, fire and/or Sheriff personnel shall be authorized to disable the electrified fence in order to gain access to the property. As a condition of permit issuance, when access is attained under emergency or urgent circumstances, all permit applicants and, by extension, the subject site's property owner(s), agree to waive any and all claims for damages to the electrified fence and associated equipment against the City of La Mirada, County Sheriff, County Fire Department, their employees and/or others acting at their direction.

   (e)   Indemnification. To the maximum extent permitted by law, all applicants and, by extension, the subject site's property owner(s) issued permits to install an electrified fence as provided in this section shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the city, its elected officials, officers, agents, contractors, and employees with respect to: any and all claims, damages and losses whatsoever occurring or resulting to any and all persons, firms, or corporations furnishing or supplying work, services, materials, or supplies in connection with or arising out of the exercise of rights granted by the permits and/or approvals associated with the installation of an electrified fence; and any and all claims, liabilities, lawsuits or actions, including any and all claims, liabilities and losses for damage, injury, or death, occurring in connection with or arising out of the granting of or the exercise of the rights granted by the permits and/or approvals associated with the installation of an electrified fence. Applicant's obligation to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the city as stated hereinabove shall include, but not be limited to, paying all fees and costs incurred by legal counsel of the city's choice in representing the city in connection with any such claims, losses, lawsuits, or actions, and payment of any award of damages, judgments, verdicts, court costs and attorneys' fees in any such lawsuit or action." (Ord. 717 § 5, 2021; Ord. 710, § 8, 2019).

   (2)   No razor wire, barbed wire, or similar fencing material shall be permitted in any Zoning District. Any such fencing materials existing as of the effective date of this zoning code shall be subject to abatement pursuant to the nonconforming provisions of this title.

   (3)   The installation of wood, vinyl or similar fencing material shall not be permitted along major or minor arterial roadways, including the mounting of screening materials (i.e., wood, lattice, and the like) that either protrudes over or increases the height of an existing fence or wall. Any such fencing materials existing as of the effective date of this provision shall be subject to abatement pursuant to the nonconforming provisions of this title.

(Ord. 650, § 13, 2012)

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (a)   Structure height shall be measured as the vertical distance between the lowest ground elevation or finished grade and the highest point of the subject building or structure. The highest point shall be the coping of a flat roof, deck line of a mansard roof, or peak of the highest gable of a pitch or hip roof, exclusive of vents, air conditioners, chimneys, and the like.

   (b)   For sloped lots or buildings with varied floor elevations, the height shall be measured as the vertical distance from the average level of the ground under the building to the top-most point of the roof. The average level of the ground is determined by adding the elevations of the lowest and highest points of the part of the lot covered by a building, and dividing by two.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Uninhabited architectural design features such as towers, spires, steeples, domes, and cupolas may exceed the specified height limit by a maximum of ten percent, subject to approval by the appropriate approving authority.

   (2)   Antennas, flagpoles, ventilators, chimneys, water tanks and utility structures, or other mechanical appurtenances may exceed the specified height limit by a maximum of twenty percent.

   (3)   Electrical transmission lines and towers are exempt from the provisions of this chapter.

   (4)   Additional height exceptions for wireless communications facilities are set forth in Chapter 21.46.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Landscaping shall be designed as an integral part of the overall site plan to enhance building design, public views and spaces, and to provide buffers, transitions, and screening. Landscape design and construction shall be compatible with the surrounding urban and natural environment.

   (c)   For the purposes of this chapter, landscape materials shall include any live plants, tree, shrubs, turf, groundcover, or other vegetation. Landscape materials do not include concrete or other solid surfaces, fountains, decorative paving, fences or walls, or other non-living materials.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

      (1)   Table 21.66.040 sets forth landscape coverage and location requirements by zoning district. In the case of a planned unit development (PUD), the PUD document shall set forth the standards.

      (2)   The minimum requirements for perimeter landscape areas may include access driveways and sidewalks required for vehicles and pedestrians. However, the required perimeter landscaping shall not include any landscaped areas required for any parking area, as set forth in Section 21.68.120.

 

1.   No less than 50 percent of the required front yard area of any single-family lot shall be maintained with a pervious surface.

2.   If a solid 6-foot-high fence encloses the street side yard of a single-family lot, this requirement shall not apply.

   (b)   Street Trees.

      (1)   Street trees shall be required on all city streets. The number of street trees shall be determined by dividing the length of property frontage, including driveway width, by forty, with the resultant number being the required number of trees. Fractional numbers shall be rounded up to the next whole number.

      (2)   Additional tree planting may be required as part of a subdivision or project condition of approval.

   (c)   Landscape of Unused and Undeveloped Portions of a Site. All areas of a site not intended for a specific use or purpose in conjunction with a current application, including vacant or undeveloped pad sites in shopping centers held for future development, shall be fully landscaped and irrigated with an automatic irrigation system. Landscaping shall include a combination of trees, shrubs, ground cover, turf, and/or approved decorative landscape materials, as approved by the community development director and public works director.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Planting Size and Spacing. To achieve an immediate effect of a landscape installation and to allow sustained growth of planting materials, minimum plant material sizes and plant spacing shall be as follows:

      (1)   Trees. The minimum plant size for trees shall be fifteen gallons. Trees planted within ten feet of a street, sidewalk, paved trail, or walkway shall be a deep-rooted species or shall be separated from paved surfaces by a root barrier to prevent physical damage to public improvements. A minimum distance of fifteen feet is required between the center of trees to street light standards and fire hydrants.

      (2)   Shrubs. The minimum plant size for shrubs shall be five gallons.

      (3)   Ground cover. Ground cover (including turf) shall be planted in a manner to provide one hundred percent coverage within two years of initial planting.

   (c)   Clear Sight Distance Maintained. To safeguard against vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian collisions caused by visual obstructions at street intersections, a clear cross-visibility area shall be maintained at the intersection of the public rights-of-way, unobstructed by any landscape material taller than forty-two inches above the street grade. At any corner formed by the intersection of two streets, the required clear cross-visibility area shall be a triangle having two sides fifteen-feet long extending along the curb line of each street (see previous Figure 21.62.050).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   To the greatest extent possible, landscape material shall consist of drought-tolerant plants. Low-water-use plants shall be used in at least fifty percent of the total planted area. Plant material selected shall be suitable for the given soil and climate conditions. Plant selection shall take into consideration water conservation through appropriate use and groupings of plants that are well adapted to particular sites and to particular watering needs, climatic, geological, and topographical conditions.

   (c)   The maximum area permitted for turf shall be fifty percent of the total area landscaped on the site. Higher percentages may be permitted when sod is an essential part of the development such as playing fields for schools or parks and residential model units. Turf usage shall only be permitted for highly visual and functional use areas. Turf shall not be permitted in areas difficult to irrigate, such as sidewalk strips, slopes over fifteen percent, or narrow pathways.

   (d)   Decorative water features such as pools, ponds, and waterfalls used in landscaped areas shall incorporate recycling of water, and where, available, use of reclaimed water. Decorative water features shall be designed to minimize water loss.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

      (1)   All required landscaped areas shall be provided with an approved irrigation system. Irrigation systems shall be designed to avoid runoff, excessive low-head drainage, overspray, or other similar conditions where water flows or drifts onto adjacent property, non-irrigated areas, walks, roadways or structures.

      (2)   All landscaped areas, with the exception of systems for single-family residences, shall be provided with an automatically timed-controlled sprinkler system.

   (b)   Maintenance of Landscaped Areas.

      (1)   All landscaped areas shall be permanently maintained by watering, clearing of debris and litter, weeding, pruning, insect control, and replacement of plant materials and irrigation equipment as needed to preserve the health and appearance of plant materials.

      (2)   All trees, shrubs, and plants that due to accident, damage, disease, or other cause fail to show a healthy growth, shall be replaced, in kind, pursuant to the approved landscape plan within thirty days from the identified damage date.

      (3)   All landscaping shall be maintained in such a manner that does not restrict pedestrian access by overhanging into the public right-of-way or other designated pedestrian path.

       (4)   Any tree, shrub, or part thereof on private property that overhangs any street so that it endangers life, safety, or public property shall be removed, trimmed, or cut off within ten days after written notice from the city.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Tree species at full growth shall not encroach within a ten-foot radial line clearance of all overhead electric utility distribution or transmission lines. Unless ground clearance is greater than thirty feet, mature tree height shall not exceed twenty feet.

   (2)   A minimum ten-foot clearance shall be maintained around all poles and ground structures to ensure necessary firebreaks and unobstructed access.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Regulate off-street parking and loading to minimize traffic congestion and hazards to motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians;

   (2)   Provide off-street parking in proportion to the needs generated by different land uses;

   (3)   Ensure access to projects by emergency response vehicles; and

   (4)   Ensure that parking areas are designed and operate compatible with surrounding land uses. (Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   These off-street parking provisions shall apply to the expanded area (only) of non-residential uses/structures.

   (c)   Residential properties that do not comply with these off-street parking provisions shall be required to comply with these provisions when proposing an expansion/addition of habitable area that increases the original square footage of the subject residence by more than 300 square feet.

   (d)   Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to limit the power of the planning commission, or of the city council on appeal, to require parking of different numbers, types, and layout as part of the conditions required to be met for approval of a development or use. (Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   Modification of Existing Lots. Modification or improvement to an existing parking lot which impacts the parking space layout, configuration, or number of stalls shall require approval of a Zoning Clearance Application pursuant to Chapter 21.96 to authorize the modification.

   (c)   Resurfacing and Restriping. Resurfacing, slurry coating, and/or restriping of a parking area shall require approval of a Zoning Clearance Application pursuant to Chapter 21.96 to authorize the work. (Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (1)   Repair of any defects in the surface of the parking area, including holes and cracks.

   (2)   Repair or replacement of damaged planters and curbs in the same location. (Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

      (1)   "Square feet" means "gross square feet" and refers to total building floor area unless otherwise specified.

      (2)   Where parking spaces are required based on a per-employee ratio, this shall be construed to be the total number of employees on the largest working shift. A certified list of all employees on each shift shall be provided to the community development department within ten days of written request.

      (3)   For the purpose of calculating parking requirements, dens, studies, or other similar rooms that may be used as bedrooms shall be considered bedrooms.

      (4)   Where the number of seats is listed to determine required parking, seats shall be construed to be fixed seats. Where fixed seats provided are either benches, bleachers or other, each twenty-four linear inches of the bench, bleacher or other shall be considered a seat.

   (b)   Minimum/Maximum Parking Requirements. Unless off-street parking reductions are permitted pursuant to provisions herein, the number of off-street parking spaces required by Table 21.68.050 shall be considered the minimum necessary for each use. In conjunction with discretionary development permits, the designated approving authority may increase or decrease these parking requirements if it is determined that these requirements are inadequate or unnecessary for a specific project.

   (c)   Uses Not Listed. The number of parking spaces required for uses not specifically listed in Table 21.68.050 shall be determined by the community development director based on common functional, product, or compatibility characteristics and activities. Such determination is considered a formal interpretation of this title and shall be decided and recorded as such.

   (d)   Calculation/Rounding of Quantities. When the calculation of the required number of off-street parking spaces results in a fraction of a space, the total number of spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.

   (e)   Mixed-use/Multiple Tenants. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, for each separate use, a site with multi-tenants, or a combination of principal uses in any one facility, the development shall provide the aggregate number of parking spaces required for each separate use. For multiple tenant development/integrated centers, with no residential component, required parking shall not be reserved for a specific business or person, unless the reserved spaces are in excess of the number required by these off-street parking provisions.

   (f)   The use of valet parking services shall not be grounds for reducing the number of parking spaces required by these off-street parking provisions. When valet parking is offered, the service shall be at no charge, shall not obstruct drive aisles/vehicle circulation with parked vehicles, and valeted vehicles shall be parked on the subject site only, unless a shared parking agreement is granted by the city.

   (g)   Designated parking spaces for low-emitting, fuel-efficient and carpool/van pool vehicles shall be provided and marked as required by the California Green Building Standards Code.

   (h)   Parking spaces for Electric Vehicles (EV) and/or EV charging equipment shall be provided as required by the California Green Building Standards Code.

Table 21.68.050
Off-Street Parking Requirements

 

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 717 § 6, 2021; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019).

 

 

   (b)   Driveway and Drive Aisle Dimensions.

      (1)   Except as may be permitted for an ADU no more than fifty percent of the required frontage of any parcel may be occupied by driveways.

      (2)   The maximum width of any one non-residential driveway shall be fifty feet.

      (3)   The minimum separation distance of any two driveways on the same property shall be one hundred feet.

      (4)   Driveways providing access to parking spaces shall have a minimum width of twenty feet, unless movement of vehicles is restricted to one way or the driveway is accessed by fewer than four parking spaces, in which case the minimum width shall be ten feet.

      (5)   Driveways serving detached single-family residences shall have a minimum width of ten feet and a maximum width of twenty-two feet. The director may approve a thirty-two foot wide driveway when the driveway leads to a three-vehicle, fully enclosed garage with side-by-side parking. The minimum length/depth of a driveway, as measured from the property line to a garage/carport, shall be twenty feet and the minimum vertical clearance shall be eight feet.

      (6)   Drive aisles serving four or more parking spaces shall have the minimum dimension listed in Table 21.68.060(B). Also see Figure 21.68.060(B).

 

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)    All required off-street parking spaces shall be located on the same lot as the use and/or development requiring such spaces.

   (c)    Except as may be permitted for an ADU, required enclosed off-street parking spaces shall not be located within any required front, side or street-side side yard setback of any residential parcel.

      (1)   All driveway and parking areas shall be on a permanently paved surface.

      (2)   Parking within the rear or street-side side yard of a corner residential parcel shall be located between a minimum six-foot-high solid fence or block wall.

      (3)   Parking may not occur within any required clear site distance triangle area. (Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (1)   Overhang of vehicles is permitted, provided no vehicle shall overhang a sidewalk or designated accessibility route. A vehicle is permitted to overhang into a landscaped area by two feet, provided the required landscape area is extended by two feet.

   (2)   Motorcycle stalls may be used as an option to utilize areas that would otherwise not be of adequate size for conventional stalls. Unless otherwise determined by the designated approving authority for a particular project, motorcycle stalls shall not count toward the number of required parking spaces.

   (3)   Piers and pillars shall not encroach into parking stalls. Where a parking stall is located abutting a wall, pillar or similar structure, the stall width and/or length shall be increased by two feet.

   (4)   Parking spaces shall not preclude direct and free access to stairways, walkways, elevators, any pedestrian accessway or fire safety equipment. Such access shall provide a clear minimum width of forty-four inches, no part of which shall be within a parking space.

   (5)   Where a ninety-degree stall is the last stall on the end of a dead-end aisle, the aisle shall be extended five feet beyond the end of the stall.

   (6)   Where a sink, appliance (e.g. washer, dryer, water heater, water softener, HVAC) and/or steps is located within a garage (residential), the effected minimum width or length shall be increased to ensure the sink, appliance (including any required post to protect the appliance), or steps are not within required dimension of the parking.

   (7)   Tandem parking shall not be permitted, except for single-family residences located in Single-family Zoning Districts and single-family residences with an ADU. The minimum interior width of a garage for tandem parking shall be nine feet and the interior length shall be twenty feet per vehicle.

   (8)   Access to a garage or carport serving a residential use shall be free and clear of obstructions within a 25 foot radius of the entrance to the garage or carport as shown in Figure 21.68.080.

   (9)   The minimum garage door opening for a two car wide garage shall be eight feet tall by sixteen feet wide and the minimum garage door opening for a one car garage shall be eight feet tall by eight feet wide.

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (a)   Parking facilities shall be used for vehicle parking only. No storage, repair work, dismantling, servicing or similar use of any kind shall be permitted. Temporary sales, events and displays may be permitted with the necessary permits for such use.

   (b)   Living or sleeping in any vehicle, trailer, or vessel is prohibited when parked or stored on private property.

   (c)   Any vehicle, trailer, or vessel which is inoperable and/or without current registration shall be stored entirely within an enclosed structure and shall not be parked or stored in any yard on any residential or non-residential property.

   (d)   The storage of recreational vehicles, watercraft, trailers or similar is prohibited within the front yard area (see Figure 21.68.090) and street-side side yard area of any residential property. However, these vehicles may be stored on an approved driveway and on surplus parking spaces that complies with section 21.68.090.

   (e)   Parking in all zoning districts shall be without monetary charge when the parking is required by these off-street parking provisions.

Figure 21.68.090

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   Authority. The community development director shall be the designated approving authority for the review and approval of shared parking agreements.

   (c)   Circumstances for allowing shared parking agreements. Where it can be demonstrated that two or more land uses can effectively share common parking facilities due to the nature of the uses (for example, an office building with largely weekday use and religious facility with predominantly weekend use), then an application may be filed for consideration by the community development director for a shared parking agreement. Such application shall include a parking study that identifies the parking demand of all subject land uses and that clearly demonstrates how and why parking facilities can be shared.

   (d)   Findings for granting shared agreements. To grant a request for shared parking, the director shall make the following findings:

      (1)   There is clear and convincing evidence that peak-hour parking demand from all uses does not coincide and/or the uses are such that the hours of operation are different for various portions of the business.

      (2)   The adjacent or nearby properties will not be adversely affected by the proposed reduction in parking.

   (e)   Conditions. The following conditions shall be required for all shared parking agreement:

      (1)   A legal agreement shall be signed by all parties sharing parking facilities, and shall constitute a mutual covenant running with the land. Such agreement shall be approved by the city attorney and community development director, shall be recorded with the Los Angeles County Recorder, and shall continue to be valid upon change of ownership. Such agreement may only be terminated with the prior, written consent of the community development director.

      (2)   The uses sharing the parking facilities must be located on contiguous lots.

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   Designation. Each compact space shall be clearly labeled "COMPACT".

   (c)   Location. Compact spaces shall be dispersed evenly throughout the parking lot. For developments characterized by distinct, segmented parking areas, the maximum permitted percentage of compact spaces shall apply to each area or segment of the parking lot. Compact spaces shall not be located adjacent to retaining walls or other formidable barriers which prevent adequate vehicle overhang.

   (d)   Compact spaces cannot be used to fulfill the off-street parking requirements of residential developments/uses as established by these parking provisions. Except, compact spaces may be used for up to thirty percent of the total required guest parking when more than ten guest parking spaces are required.

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   Maintenance of Required Parking and Loading Areas. All parking facilities, including curbs, directional markings, handicapped symbols, landscaping, pavement, signs, striping, and wheel stops, shall be permanently maintained by the property owner/tenant in good repair, free of litter and debris, potholes, obstructions, and stored material.

   (c)   Marking and Signs. With the exception of striping for ADA parking spaces and other required designated parking spaces, parking spaces shall be delineated with white, four inch wide striping. Drive aisles, approach lanes, and maneuvering areas shall be marked and maintained with directional arrows and striping to expedite traffic movement. Any area not intended for parking shall be signed as such, or in areas where curb exists, the curb may be painted red in lieu of signs. All signing and striping installations shall be in conformance with the city's current standards or as otherwise deemed necessary by the community development director to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow in or about any parking facility.

   (d)   Vehicle Access/Driveways/Circulation.

      (1)   Accessibility and usability. Driveways shall not be used for any purpose that would prevent vehicles from accessing parking spaces, or inhibit circulation or emergency service response.

      (2)   Access to adjacent roadways. Parking spaces within a designated parking lot shall be designed to provide suitable maneuvering room so vehicles can enter an abutting street in a forward direction (alleys may be used for maneuvering space). Parking lots shall be designed to prevent access at any point other than at a designated driveway(s).

      (3)   Circulation. Within a parking lot, circulation shall be such that a vehicle entering the parking lot need not enter the street to reach another aisle and that a vehicle shall not enter a public street backwards. Speed bumps or similar devices designed to control vehicle speed within parking lots may be required as determined by the designated approving authority.

      (4)   Visibility at driveways. Driveways shall be designed and located in such a manner so as to ensure proper visibility to on-street traffic. Driveway design shall take into consideration slopes, curvature, speed, and conflicting turning movements in the area. Clear visibility shall be maintained from the driveway by keeping the designated clear vision triangle free of obstacles such as signs, landscaping, and structures. See Article X for a description of the clear vision triangle.

   (e)   Pedestrian Access and Circulation. All multi-family and non-residential developments shall be designed with a minimum of one designated pedestrian path from each abutting street to the primary entrance(s) to such use. Access shall be distinct from the vehicle access, visibly delineated, and designed to be safe and convenient. Specifically, internal pedestrian walkways shall be distinguished from driving surfaces through the use of raised sidewalks, special pavers, bricks, or scored/stamped concrete.

   (f)   Drainage. Drainage facilities shall be provided in all public parking areas capable of handling and maintaining the drainage requirements of the subject property and surrounding properties. Drainage facilities shall be designed to dispose of all surface water consistent with regional water quality control board standards, and to alleviate the creation of flooding and drainage problems.

   (g)   Curbing. Areas containing plant materials shall be bordered by a concrete curb at least six inches high and six inches wide. Alternative barrier design to protect landscaped areas from damage by vehicles may be approved by the community development director.

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   Commercial vehicles weighing less than six thousand pounds gross may be parked on a lot in a residential zoning district, but such parking shall be limited to a designated driveway only.

   (c)   Nonconforming vehicle parking in any zoning district shall be regulated by Chapter 10.16 of Title 10 of the La Mirada Municipal Code.

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   Parking Lot Shade. Trees shall be planted and maintained in all parking lots at a ratio of one tree for every ten parking spaces. The trees shall be placed throughout the parking lot in a manner that will ensure that all portions of the lot receive tree shade. Trees shall be of varieties that provide a broad canopy.

   (c)   Parking Lot Screening. Landscaping within the perimeter planter between parking lot and street right-of-way shall be designed and maintained for partial screening of vehicles to a minimum height of thirty inches, measured from the finished grade of the parking lot. Screening materials may include any combination of plant materials, earthen berms, solid masonry walls, raised planters, or other screening device deemed by the community development director to comply with the intent of this requirement.

   (d)   Percent Coverage. A minimum of ten percent of the parking lot area shall be landscaped. Parking lot landscaping shall not count toward required landscape coverage otherwise required for the zoning district in which a project is located.

   (e)   Screening of Drive-through Aisles. To screen vehicles in a drive-through and associated headlights from view of abutting street rights-of-way, a minimum, continuous, and immediate three-foot-high landscape screen shall be established along the outer edge of drive-through aisles. Screening materials may include a combination of plant materials and raised planters as approved by the community development director.

   (f)   Irrigation. All landscaped areas shall be equipped with an underground automated irrigation system.

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

 

   (b)   Location. All sites shall be designed so that all loading and unloading as well as truck back-up maneuvering occurs entirely on private property and does not utilize any public street right-of-way.

   (c)   Common Loading Facilities. The off-street loading facilities requirements of this section may be satisfied by the permanent allocation of the prescribed number of loading spaces for each use in a common truck loading facility, provided that the total number of loading spaces shall not be less than the sum of the individual requirements.

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

(Ord. 736, § 5 (part), 2025; Ord. 710, § 9 (part), 2019)

   (b)   Performance standards are provided to:

      (1)   Establish standards by which potential nuisances can be assessed, measured, and otherwise dealt with factually and objectively;

      (2)   Ensure that all preventable nuisances are controlled in the design and engineering of new development projects rather than be retrofit or post-construction mitigation measures;

      (3)   Ensure that nuisances generated by the operation and design of existing development promptly abated by the property owner(s);

      (4)   Protect property owners and users from arbitrary exclusion, persecution, or other unfair actions as a result of subjective judgment regarding activities which create a public nuisance; and

      (5)   Provide a framework by which potential impacts can be assessed in granting special use and conditional use permits.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Compliance may be waived by the city council if a building condition created under prior ordinances physically precludes the reasonable application of the standards. Additional categorical exceptions from compliance with the performance standards are as follows:

      (1)   Temporary activity. Festivals and other special events with approved temporary use permits or other required permits, where such activities otherwise comply with other applicable provisions of this title.

      (2)   Emergency activities. Any emergency activity on the part of the city or a private party.

      (3)   Construction activity. Temporary construction activity is exempted except where such activity is explicitly regulated by other regulations of the Municipal Code.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (a)   Purpose. The intent of this section is to protect local health, safety, and general welfare by ensuring that the design and operational characteristics of property does not adversely impact neighboring property owners, neighboring property users, or the general public through the accidental or intentional release or use of hazardous materials.

   (b)   Regulated by State of California and the U.S. EPA. The use, handling, storage, and transportation of hazardous and extremely hazardous materials shall comply with the provisions of the California Hazardous Materials Regulations (California Administrative Code, Title 22, Division 4). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Department of Health Services (DHS) identify hazardous materials and prescribe handling, use, and disposal practices. The use, storage, manufacture, and disposal of hazardous materials shall be regulated and monitored according to the standards established by these agencies and any delegated government agencies.

   (c)   Combustibles and Explosives.

      (1)   The use, handling, storage, and transportation of combustibles and explosives shall comply with the provisions of Section 13-13: Uniform Fire Code.

      (2)   No gasoline or other inflammables or explosives shall be stored unless the location, plans, and construction conform to the laws and regulations of the State of California and have the approval of the city.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Exemptions. The following are exempt from the lighting provisions:

      (1)   Outdoor lights associated with a temporary event for which a temporary use permit was granted.

      (2)   Outdoor lights used at public parks and school sites. Outdoor lights for recreational activities and special events shall be turned off between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

      (3)   Temporary lights used for holiday decorations.

      (4)   Emergency lighting erected for official purposes by a local, state, or federal agency.

   (c)   Outdoor Lighting Standards for Single-family Residential Property. Outdoor lighting is permitted in single-family residential developments as a means of deterring crime and increasing safety of residents. However, to ensure that the intensity and direction of light does not constitute a nuisance to adjacent residential dwellings, outdoor lighting shall either be motion detected, off between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., or directed and shielded in a manner that does not constitute a nuisance to abutting residential property.

   (d)   Outdoor Lighting Standards for Other than Residential Property. Parking lots, driveways, pedestrian walkways, and building entrances/exits shall be illuminated for security and safety purposes during business hours of operation. Except as otherwise exempt, outdoor lighting shall be provided with shielding so that the light emitted from an outdoor light fixture is projected below an imaginary horizontal plane passing through the fixture. Where the light source from an outdoor light fixture is visible beyond the property line, shielding shall be required to reduce glare so that the light source is not visible from within any residential dwelling unit (Figure 21.70.070 D).

   (e)   Prohibited Lighting. The following outdoor light fixtures shall be prohibited. Existing light fixtures legally permitted or authorized prior to the effective date of this zoning ordinance may be maintained.

      (1)   Uplighted and back-lighted canopies or awnings.

      (2)   Searchlights, except as authorized for a special or temporary event authorized by a temporary use permit.

      (3)   Flashing lights, except as used in conjunction with a security alarm system.

      (4)   Roof-mounted lights.

      (5)   Any light that imitates or causes visual interference with a traffic signal or other necessary safety or emergency light.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Applicability and Exemptions. The standards provided in this chapter apply to all land uses in all zoning districts unless otherwise specified. The following are exempted from the maximum noise standards specified in this section:

      (1)   Sporting events, festivals, and other events which otherwise conform with applicable zoning requirements and have appropriate temporary use and/or noise permits.

      (2)   Sounds emanating from the operation of mobile and stationary equipment, including motor vehicles on a public highway; aircraft; outdoor implements such as power lawn mowers, power hedge clippers, and power saws; and pile drivers or jackhammers and other construction equipment.

      (3)   Sounds emanating from lawful and proper activities on school grounds, playgrounds, parks, or places wherein athletic contests take place are exempt from the provisions of this title.

      (4)   Sounds emanating from emergency equipment, air raid sirens, and other apparatus used solely for public purposes.

   (c)   Noise Measurement. Noise shall be measured with a sound level meter that meets the standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Section S1.4-1979, Type 1 or Type 2). Noise levels shall be measured in decibels at the property line of the receptor property, and at least four feet above the ground and five feet from the nearest structure or wall. The unit of measure shall be designated as dBA. A calibration check shall be made of the instrument at the time any noise measurement is made.

   (d)   Maximum Noise Level.

      (1)   Residential areas. Noise levels from any property or any use shall not exceed sixty dBA as measured in any portion of any surrounding or adjacent residentially zoned property.

      (2)   Non-residential areas. Noise levels generated within any property by any use shall not exceed seventy dBA in any portion of any surrounding or adjacent property with nonresidential zoning.

   (e)   Vibration. Any use on any property within the city that generates vibration that is discernable without instruments at any lot line adjacent to an area with a residential use or residential zoning district is prohibited. The ground vibration caused by moving vehicles, trains, aircraft, or temporary construction or demolition is exempted.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Compliance with South Coast Air Quality Management District. Any process that creates or emits any odors, gases, or other odorous matter shall comply with applicable standards set by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).

   (c)   Offensive Odors. No use shall be permitted to emit continuous, frequent, or repetitive odorous gases or matter in quantities such as to be perceptible at any lot line of the site. An odor emitted no more than fifteen minutes in any one day shall not be deemed as continuous, frequent, or repetitive within meaning of this standard.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (a)   Property values and the general welfare of the community are founded, in part, upon the appearance and maintenance of private property. Within La Mirada, owners and occupants of some properties have permitted visual blight, including but not limited to deteriorated buildings, overgrowth of vegetation, damaged and deteriorated fencing and other structures, and the accumulation of broken or discarded property. The city finds that the existence of such conditions is injurious to the public health, safety, and general welfare of residents of and visitors to La Mirada, and contributes to the deterioration of residential and nonresidential areas.

   (b)   Abatement of these conditions is in the best interest of the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of La Mirada. A city-wide minimum set of standards for property maintenance can provide benefits to the community that can protect the livability, appearance, and social and economic stability of La Mirada; contribute to the appreciation of property values; improve the physical character of residential, commercial and industrial zones; attract capital investors; increase commercial trade and industrial productivity; and increase in the tax base of the city. Minimum property maintenance standards can also benefit the community by reducing the risks to health, safety, and general welfare that exist due to deterioration, dilapidation, and blight.

   (c)   The uses and abuses of property described in this chapter and the property maintenance standards provided herein relate to the proper exercise of police power to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   The provisions of this chapter are not intended to regulate artistic, cultural, or religious expression.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   When used in this chapter, the words, terms and phrases defined herein shall have the meaning and construction given herein, except when used in a context which clearly indicates a different meaning or construction. Any word, term, and phrase not specifically defined herein, but defined in this Title 21, shall be given the meaning and construction set forth in this title.

      (1)   Single-family means all property in the R-1 zoning district, and shall also include all property actually used for single-family residential and second unit housing, notwithstanding the underlying zoning of the subject property, and all districts combined with any R-1 zoning district.

      (2)   Multi-family means all property in the R-3 and R-4 zoning districts, and shall also include all property actually used for multi-family residential purposes, notwithstanding the underlying zoning of the subject property and all districts combined with the R-3 and R-4 zoning districts.

      (3)   Commercial means all property classified as a commercial zoning district pursuant to Chapter 21.20. Additionally, commercial shall mean and include all property actually used for such commercial purposes, notwithstanding the underlying zoning of the subject property, and all districts combined with any commercial district.

      (4)   Industrial means all property classified as an industrial zoning district pursuant to Chapter 21.22. Additionally, industrial shall mean and include all property actually used for industrial purposes, notwithstanding the underlying zoning of the subject property, and all districts combined with any industrial district.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Prohibition on Attractive Nuisances. Any property which can be easily accessed by children must be kept clear of attractive nuisances that create a danger for children and other persons, including but not limited to abandoned, neglected, or broken equipment, machinery, appliances, refrigerators or freezers; construction materials and construction equipment; and hazardous pools, ponds, and excavations.

   (c)   Building Maintenance. All buildings, structures, and paved areas shall be kept and maintained in a manner so as to not detract from the appearance of the immediate neighborhood or district, and to protect the health, safety and welfare of the user, occupant, and the general public. All such buildings, structures and paved areas shall be deemed substandard and in violation of this section when any or all of the same display evidence of dilapidated conditions including, but not limited to, the following:

      (1)   Faulty, sagging, or leaking roof and roofs, missing roof tiles, or other visible roofing materials;

      (2)   Substantial areas of deteriorated building siding materials including, but not limited to, dry rot, termite infestation, dented or rusting metal siding, broken or missing pieces of stucco, or other siding materials;

      (3)   Broken or missing windows;

      (4)   Inadequate site drainage and/or standing water adjacent to building foundations;

      (5)   Broken or inoperable sanitary and plumbing facilities and/or fixtures;

      (6)   Broken or missing foundation;

      (7)   Broken, torn or missing attic vent screens;

      (8)   Broken, ripped or torn window screens;

      (9)   Structural defects such as warped, bowed or sagging structural members including, but not limited to, headers, sills, beams, eaves, doorways, doorjambs, and similar structural or architectural elements;

      (10)   Holes in siding areas;

      (11)   Weathered or peeling paint.

   (d)   Fencing and Walls. All fences and walls shall be kept and maintained in a manner that does not to detract from the appearance of the immediate neighborhood or district, and that protects the health, safety, and welfare of the user, occupant, and general public. Fences and walls shall be deemed substandard and in violation of this chapter when they display evidence of dilapidation or other conditions, such as any or all of the following:

      (1)   Sagging, broken, rotted, or defective support posts or other structural members.

      (2)   Missing or broken fence boards.

      (3)   Damaged or missing blocks from a block wall.

      (4)   Substantial areas of deterioration including dry rot, broken or missing pieces or stucco, holes, or warped or leaning fence or wall areas.

      (5)   Chain link fence material which is damaged or broken.

      (6)   Portions of the fence or wall which are substantially defaced with graffiti.

      (7)   Any condition of deterioration or any fault resulting in the fence or wall being structurally unsound or otherwise hazardous to property owners, occupants, or passersby.

      (8)   Height extensions of walls or fences in violation of this title.

   (e)   Litter and Refuse. All yards, landscaped areas, and other areas of private property surrounding buildings shall be kept free of trash, old building materials, junk, unlicensed or inoperative vehicles, broken or discarded furniture, boxes, salvage materials, shopping carts, and other such material and equipment which, by its appearance, location or use, makes it incompatible with the principal use or other predominate principal uses in the immediate neighborhood.

   (f)   Private Streets, Sidewalks, and Driveways.

      (1)   All parking, loading, storage, driveway, and vehicle maneuvering shall be kept and maintained so as to not detract from the appearance of the immediate neighborhood and to protect the health, safety and welfare of the user, occupant and general public. Such areas shall be kept in a neat and clean condition, free of inoperative vehicles, abandoned items, trash, debris or rubbish, furniture, equipment, play equipment, or similar materials, and free of potholes, sinkholes, standing water, cracks, and/or broken areas. Parking spaces delineation, pavement striping and related features, and signs shall be repainted, refurbished and/or replaced when the same become faded, damaged, or destroyed to such an extent as to no longer be effective. Such areas shall, further, be periodically resurfaced or sealed in order to minimize seepage of water through such areas into the ground below such areas.

      (2)   When any paved area, which includes sidewalks, driveways, and private roadways, shows evidence of dilapidated or deteriorated conditions, it shall be deemed substandard and in violation of this chapter.

   (g)   Landscaping and Vegetation.

      (1)   All landscaped areas shall be kept and maintained in a manner that does not detract from the appearance of the immediate neighborhood or district, and that protects the health, safety, and welfare of the user, occupant and general public.

      (2)   Landscaped areas shall be kept in a neat and clean condition, free of weeds, debris and dead, diseased or dying vegetation, and broken or defective decorative elements of the landscaped area.

      (3)   Vegetation in landscaped areas shall be mowed, groomed, trimmed, pruned and watered as to keep the same in a healthy, growing condition. Irrigation systems shall be kept in good working condition and repair so as to prevent leaks or public health hazards.

      (4)   Vegetative overgrowth shall not be permitted in a manner that is likely to harbor rodents, vermin, insects, or other nuisances; or impedes, obstructs, or denies pedestrian or other lawful travel on sidewalks, walk-ways or other public rights-of-way.

   (h)   Maintenance Responsibility.

      (1)   It shall be the responsibility of any owner of any building, structure, residence, property, grounds or lots to ensure or compel compliance with the property maintenance standards set forth in this chapter on private property within La Mirada.

      (2)   It shall be the responsibility of any owner, tenant, lessee, or occupant of any building, structure, residence, property, grounds or lots to remove debris and remove any vegetation that is in violation of this chapter that has accumulated on any streets within the city, if such person(s) placed the debris on such private property or streets, or otherwise owns, is occupying, or has custody or control over such private property or streets.

      (3)   Vacant and undeveloped property shall be required to be view obscured from the public right-of-way with decorative screen fencing in combination with berms and automatically irrigated landscaping, subject to the approval of the Planning Division.

(Ord. 618, 2008; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

      (1)   The entire front yard and side yard abutting a street shall be kept and maintained free and clear of all construction and automotive materials or parts, trash, refuse, debris, trash storage receptacles, inoperative motor vehicles, discarded or broken materials, appliances, furniture, patio furniture, equipment, basketball hoops, play equipment, and similar materials.

      (2)   Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a)(1) of this section, emergency or minor repairs of a motor vehicle owned by a person residing upon the lot or parcel may be conducted on an otherwise inoperative motor vehicle upon a paved driveway or paved parking area. However, that such emergency or minor repair shall be concluded within seventy-two hours of the commencement thereof.

      (3)   Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (a)(1) and (2) of this section, a side yard abutting a street shall be treated the same as a rear yard, so long as the side yard abutting a street is screened by an approved wall or fence in a manner so the items set forth in subsection (a)(1) of this section are not visible from the abutting street.

   (b)   Storage - Side Yard not Abutting a Street.

      (1)   All storage of materials including, but not limited to, trash and trash receptacles, newspapers, maintenance tools, equipment, camper shells not mounted on motor vehicles, boats and trailers, but not including inoperative vehicles, appliances, furniture, play equipment, and similar materials within side yards shall be screened by approved walls, fences, and/or landscaping materials from view from abutting property, public and private streets, and public and private right-of-ways. Reasonable pedestrian access shall be provided for public safety purposes.

      (2)   Parking or storage of motor vehicles and/or trailers shall occur upon an approved driveway, or other allowed paved or surfaced area.

      (3)   All storage within the side yard shall be kept and maintained free of weeds, overgrown grass or plant material, debris, litter or any combination thereof.

      (4)   Any and all firewood stored on a single-family lot shall be cut to fireplace size, shall be neatly stacked and stored out of public view, and shall not exceed two cords in amount.

   (c)   Storage - Rear Yard.

      (1)   All storage of materials within rear yards shall be screened by approved walls, fences, and/or landscaping materials from view as seen from abutting property, public and private streets, and public and private right-of-ways. Storage of materials include, but not limited to, trash receptacles, newspapers, building and automotive materials, landscape maintenance tools, equipment or currently licensed boats and trailers, camper shells not mounted on operative motor vehicles. Inoperative motor vehicles shall not be stored in the rear yard.

      (2)   Unless a lower percentage is set forth in this title, any materials stored, kept, or maintained pursuant to subsection (c)(1) of this section shall not cover an area greater than twenty-five percent of the total square footage of the rear yard.

      (3)   All storage within the rear yard shall be kept and maintained free of weeds, overgrown grass or plant material, debris, litter or any combination of such materials.

   (d)   Storage - Garage and Carports. Storage of materials in a garage or unscreened storage of materials in a carport is prohibited if such storage restricts the parking of an operative motor vehicle in the required parking spaces. Storage of materials includes, but not limited to, trash, trash receptacles, newspapers, building and automotive materials, landscape maintenance tools, and equipment.

   (e)   Motor Vehicle Parking.

      (1)   Except as otherwise provided in this title, all parking of currently licensed and operative motor vehicles, currently licensed trailers, and boats on a single-family lot or parcel shall occur within a garage, or approved carport, or upon an approved driveway, or other allowed paved parking area within the front yard, or within the side yard or rear yard. If parked in a side yard, a pedestrian access way shall be maintained on one side yard.

      (2)   No motor vehicle or part thereof shall encroach onto the public right-of-way where a sidewalk is present.

   (f)   Solid Waste Containers.

      (1)   All residences located in any area in which collection is by the city or approved contractors shall have sufficient container capacity to accommodate their normal volume of solid waste between collections.

      (2)   All items too large to fit into containers, such as, but not limited to, appliances, furniture and mattresses, shall be disposed of by self-transport of such items to end-disposal facilities.

      (3)   All loose materials which normally fit into containers but which are excess as a result of special circumstances such as holidays shall be bundled and tied securely to prevent them from blowing or scattering and shall be placed beside the containers.

      (4)   Containers shall be kept covered at all times.

      (5)   Any container which does not conform to prescribed standards or which has defects likely to hamper collection or injure the person collecting the contents thereof or the public generally shall be replaced promptly by the owner or user of the container.

      (6)   Solid waste containers shall not remain at curbside or anywhere in the front yard for more than forty-eight hours.

      (7)   No resident shall deposit household solid waste in any receptacle maintained on a sidewalk or at any other location for disposal of litter by pedestrians.

      (8)   Removal of trash or other scavenging from private residential solid waste containers is prohibited.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

      (1)   All front, side and rear yards, including side yards abutting a street, shall be kept and maintained free and clear of all construction and automotive materials or parts, trash, refuse, debris, trash storage receptacles, inoperative motor vehicles, boats and trailers, camper shells not mounted on motor vehicles, discarded or broken materials, appliances, furniture, play equipment, equipment, and similar materials. All rubbish, trash, and debris shall only be kept within approved trash enclosure(s).

      (2)   Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, emergency or minor repairs of a motor vehicle owned by a person residing upon the lot or parcel may be conducted on an otherwise inoperative motor vehicle within a paved area. However, such emergency or minor repair shall be concluded within seventy-two hours of the commencement thereof.

   (b)   Storage - Garage and Carports. No storage of materials including but not limited to, trash, trash receptacles, newspapers, building and automotive materials, landscape maintenance tools, equipment, and debris, shall be permitted within any garage, nor shall there be any unscreened storage of such materials in any carport in any manner that restricts the parking of an operative motor vehicle in the required parking spaces.

   (c)   Motor Vehicle Parking. Except as otherwise provided in this title, all parking of motor vehicles on a multi-family lot or parcel shall occur within a garage or carport or upon an approved paved parking area.

   (d)   Solid Waste Containers.

      (1)   All residences located in any area in which collection is by the city or approved contractors shall have sufficient container capacity to accommodate their normal volume of solid waste between collections.

      (2)   All items too large to fit into containers, such as, but not limited to, appliances, furniture and mattresses, shall be disposed of by self-transport of such items to end-disposal facilities.

      (3)   All loose materials which normally fit into containers but which are excess as a result of special circumstances such as holidays shall be bundled and tied securely to prevent them from blowing or scattering and shall be placed beside the containers.

      (4)   Containers shall be kept covered at all times.

      (5)   Any container which does not conform to prescribed standards or which has defects likely to hamper collection or injure the person collecting the contents thereof or the public generally shall be replaced promptly by the owner or user of the container.

      (6)   Solid waste containers shall not remain at curbside or anywhere in the front yard for more than forty-eight hours.

      (9)   No resident shall deposit household solid waste in any receptacle maintained on a sidewalk or at any other location for disposal of litter by pedestrians.

      (10)   Removal of trash or other scavenging from residential solid waste containers is prohibited.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Motor Vehicle Parking. Except as otherwise provided in this title, all parking of currently licensed and operative motor vehicles, currently licensed trailers, and boats on a commercial lot or parcel shall occur within a garage or carport or upon an approved paved parking area.

   (c)   Solid Waste Containers.

      (1)   All establishments and institutions which generate solid waste for collection by the city or approved contractors shall provide appropriate containers for storage of solid waste, and locate these containers out of public view in a location convenient for trash collectors.

      (2)   Containers shall be kept covered at all times.

      (3)   Any container which does not conform to prescribed standards or which has defects likely to hamper collection or injure the person collecting the contents thereof or the public generally shall be replaced promptly by the owner or user of the container upon receipt of written notice of such defects from the department in charge of solid waste management.

      (4)   No owner, manager or employee of a commercial or industrial business or any institution shall deposit solid waste from that establishment or institution in any receptacle maintained on a sidewalk or at any other location for disposal of litter by pedestrians.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Implement the city's community design and safety standards set forth in the general plan; and

   (2)   Maintain and enhance the city's appearance by regulating the design, character, location, number, type, quality of materials, size, illumination and maintenance of signs; and

   (3)   Protect and improve pedestrian and vehicular traffic safety by balancing the need for signs which facilitate the safe and smooth flow of traffic (i.e., traffic directional signs) without an excess of signage which may distract motorists, overload their capacity to quickly receive information, visually obstruct traffic signs or otherwise create congestion and safety hazards; and

   (4)   Eliminate the traffic safety hazards to pedestrians and motorists posed by off-site signs bearing commercial messages; and

   (5)   Generally limit commercial signage to on-site locations in order to protect the aesthetic environment from the visual clutter associated with the unrestricted proliferation of signs, while providing channels of communication to the public; and

   (6)   Allow the communication of information for commercial and noncommercial purposes without regulating the content of noncommercial messages; and

   (7)   Allow the expression of political, religious and other noncommercial speech at all times, and allow for an increase in the quantity of such speech in the period preceding elections; and

   (8)   Respect and protect the right of free speech by sign display, while reasonably regulating the structural, locational and other non-communicative aspects of signs, generally for the public health, safety, welfare, and specifically to serve the public interests in traffic and pedestrian safety and community aesthetics; and

   (9)   Minimize the possible adverse effects of signs on nearby public and private property; and

   (10)   Serve the city's interests in maintaining and enhancing its visual appeal for tourists and other visitors, by preventing the degradation of visual quality which can result from excess signage; and

   (11)   Protect the investments in property and lifestyle quality made by persons who choose to live, work, or do business in the city; and

   (12)   Defend the peace and tranquility of residential zones and neighborhoods by generally forbidding commercial signs on private residences, while allowing residents the opportunity, within reasonable limits, to express political, religious and other noncommercial messages from their homes; and

   (13)   Enable the fair, consistent, and efficient enforcement of the sign regulations of the city.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   "Abandoned sign" means any sign where for a period of ninety days or more, there is no sign copy appearing on the sign, or where the establishment to which the sign is attached has ceased operation and where it is clear that the sign has been forsaken or deserted.

   (2)   "Adjacent" means located entirely within two hundred fifty feet of the freeway as measured from the freeway centerline, when referring to an electronic billboard adjacent to a freeway.

   (3)   “Animated sign” means any sign that uses movement or change of lighting to depict action or create a special effect or scene, including beacons, pennants, hand-held signs, large balloons or other inflatables used as signs, high-intensity illuminated signs, or other moving or flashing signs. Electronic or mechanical indications of time and temperature and decorations shall not be included in this definition for animated signs.

   (4)   “Barber pole” means any cylindrical sign used to identify hair cutting establishments.

   (5)   "Billboard" means an off-site sign that identifies or communicates a commercial or noncommercial message related to an activity, a service rendered, or a commodity sold mostly at a location other than where the sign is located. The terms "billboard" and "off-site sign" may be used interchangeably to mean the same.

   (6)   "Billboard, electronic" means a billboard where the alphabetic, pictographic, symbolic informational and/or other content may be changed or altered on a fixed display surface composed of electronically illuminated or electronically actuated or motivated elements and can be changed or altered electronically. This includes billboards with displays that must be preprogrammed to display specific types of information (i.e., time, date, temperature) and billboards whose informational content can be changed or altered by means of computer-driven electronic impulses. This includes, without limitation, billboards also known as digital billboards or light emitting diode (LED) billboards.

   (7)   “Building facade” means the portion of any exterior elevation of a building or structure from grade to the top of the roofline and the entire width of the building.

   (8)   “Building frontage” means the horizontal length of an outside building wall facing a street, public parking lot or mall.

   (9)   “Building frontage, primary” means the building frontage which faces the street. In cases where a building has more than one street frontage, the longest of the street frontages shall be considered the primary building frontage. In cases where a business has no building frontage facing a street, the building frontage with the primary business entrance shall be considered the primary building frontage. Generally, individual tenants of a multi-tenant building have primary building frontage equal to the horizontal length of their business frontage. However, every multi-tenant building has only one primary frontage, and in no event shall the combined sign area for all tenants exceed the allowable sign area for the building.

   (10)   “Business frontage” means that business elevation that fronts on a public street or that business elevation that fronts the subject business’ parking area and provides a public entrance.

   (11)   “Canopy sign” means any sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy or other material, or structural protective cover over a door, entrance, window, or service area.

   (12)   “Changeable copy sign” means a sign or portion of a sign with characters, letters or illustrations that can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or the surface of the sign. A sign on which the message changes more than once per day shall be considered an animated sign and not a changeable copy sign for purposes of this chapter.

   (13)   “Commercial message” means any sign wording, logo or other representation that directly or indirectly names or advertises or calls attention to a business, product, service or other commercial activity, or which proposes a commercial transaction or relates primarily to commercial interests.

   (14)   “Directory sign” means a sign or set of similarly designed individual signs, placed or displayed in sequence, to list all or part of the businesses within a building or shopping center.

   (15)   “Directional sign” means an on-site sign designed to direct vehicular or pedestrian traffic that does not promote or advertise a business, property or product.

   (16)   “Display board sign” means a permanently installed panel (bulletin board or display case) provided for the posting of temporary advertisements and/or messages on which manually changeable messages are displayed.

   (17)   “Flag” means a piece of cloth or canvas, usually rectangular or triangular in shape, displaying graphics, symbols, and/or written copy, and designed to be flown from a flag pole. Colored cloth or canvas without any graphics, symbols, and/or written copy is not included in this definition.

   (18)   “Freestanding sign” means a sign supported permanently upon the ground by poles or braces and not attached to any building. Also referred to as a “pylon sign” or “pole sign.”

   (19)   "Freeway" means the California Interstate 5 (I-5) freeway.

   (20)   "Freeway-oriented" means any electronic billboard that is adjacent to a freeway (as defined herein) and designed to be viewed primarily by persons traveling on the main freeway route.

   (21)   “Governmental/civic sign” means any temporary or permanent sign erected and maintained by or required by the city, county, state or federal government for traffic direction, city entrance, or for designation or direction to any school, hospital, historical site, public service, property or facility.

   (22)   “Illuminated sign” means a sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign.

   (23)   “Incidental sign” means a sign, emblem or decal informing the public of goods, facilities, or services available on the premises, including but not limited to a restroom and phone sign, credit card sign or a sign indicating hours of business. Incidental signs also include signs prohibiting trespassing and soliciting, as well as neighborhood watch/alarm signs.

   (24)   “Integrated development” means a building with more than one independent tenant suite/space or a commercial/industrial site or group of separate properties, under single or multiple ownership, that are developed as one continuous project with shared/common ingress and egress as well as unrestricted on-site vehicular and pedestrian circulation.

   (25)   “Logo sign” means a graphic sign that represents a particular trademark or business symbol for identification.

   (26)   “Monument sign” means a sign constructed upon a solid base or pedestal.

   (27)   “Name plate” means an attached wall, suspended, projecting or other building sign identifying the occupant of a dwelling unit.

   (28)   “Neon sign” means illuminated bent glass tubing in the form of symbols, graphics and/or written copy and illuminated linear tubing mounted within windows/storefronts or on the exterior of a building.

   (29)   “Non-commercial sign” means any sign that does not bear a commercial message including, by way of example and not limitation, commentary on social, political, educational, religious, scientific, artistic, philosophical or charitable subjects. Also includes signs regarding fund raising or membership drive activities for noncommercial or nonprofit concerns.

   (30)   “Off-site sign” means a sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, service, entertainment, or other product or activity offered at a location other than the site on which the sign is located. This definition does not include real estate signs, temporary signs, or directional signs approved pursuant to this chapter.

   (31)   “Pole sign” means a freestanding sign attached to a pole.

   (32)   “Portable sign” means any sign not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure, or a sign designed to be transported. Portable signs include, but are not limited to, signs designed to be transported by means of wheels, signs configured as A-frame or T-frame; menu and sandwich board signs; and signs attached to or painted on vehicles parked and visible from the public way, unless said vehicle is used in the day-to-day operations of the business.

   (33)   “Projecting sign” means any sign affixed to a building or wall in such a manner that its leading edge extends more than eighteen inches beyond the surface of said building or wall.

   (34)   “Pylon sign” means any freestanding sign supported by means of more than one pole.

   (35)   “Roof sign” means any sign erected on the roof or over the roofline of a building. For the purposes of this chapter, the roofline is the top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is higher, excluding any cupolas, pylons, chimneys or minor projections.

   (36)   “Sandwich board sign” means a sign designed with an A-frame structure and intended to be placed directly on a sidewalk or similar ground surface.

   (37)   “Sign” means any device, structure, fixture or placard displaying graphics, symbols, and/or written copy for the primary purpose of identifying, providing directions or advertising any establishment, product, goods, or services to the public.

   (38)   “Sign area” means the measurable area of a sign face. Said sign area shall be computed by means of a single continuous line composed of right angles that enclose the extreme limits lettering, logo, trademark or other graphic representation, together with any frame or structural trim forming an integral part of the display. For pole and pylon signs, the perimeter of the measurable sign area shall not include support and framing design embellishments exclusive of logo or written copy. Sign area for multi-faced signs shall be computed by adding together the area of all sign faces visible from any one point.

   (39)   “Real estate sign” means a temporary sign advertising the real estate upon which the sign is located as being for rent, lease, or sale.

   (40)   “Temporary sign” means a sign not constructed or intended for long-term use. Included in this definition are hand-held signs that are not attached in any manner to a stationary object.

   (41)   “Vehicle sign” means any sign that is attached to and is an integral part of a motorized vehicle or bicycle used directly for the purpose of a particular business and not used primarily as a sign base.

   (42)   “Wall sign” means a sign attached to a building facade, generally parallel to and extending not more than eighteen inches from the wall of a building with no copy on the sides or edges. This definition includes painted signs, individual letters, cabinet signs, and signs on a mansard.

   (43)   “Window sign” means a sign installed or placed upon, inside, or behind a window pane or glass door with the purpose of having the sign visible from the outside of the building.

(Ord. 722, §§ 5, 7, 2022; Ord. 627, §§ 5, 6, 2009; Ord. 624 § 8, 2008; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Temporary signs identified in Section 21.76.060 require planning division approval of a temporary sign permit (Chapter 21.104).

   (c)   The community development director shall have the authority to require a comprehensive sign program for commercial and industrial development projects involving the establishment of leasable or saleable building space for more than one tenant.

   (d)   Signs that do not comply with the requirements of this chapter shall not be permitted unless a variance has been granted pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 21.108.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Barber poles. Building-/wall-mounted barber poles in non-residential zones.

   (2)   Civic signs. City-sponsored civic signs for community entrance, identification, direction and information, located off-premises on private property or in the public right-of-way, with approval of an encroachment permit by the public works department. Such signs shall be limited to a one hundred fifty-square-foot sign area and a maximum height of fifteen feet. All such signs shall be either non-illuminated or externally illuminated.

   (3)   Construction signs. One on-site temporary sign to identify the names of individuals and/or firms connected with the construction of a project. On residential property, the maximum sign area is six square feet, with a maximum height of six feet. On non-residential property, the maximum sign area is forty square feet and the maximum height ten feet. All such signs shall be non-illuminated and set back a minimum of five feet from the public right-of-way. All such signs shall be removed prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit.

   (4)   Directional signs. The city has a compelling interest in ensuring traffic safety. To directly advance that interest, one on-site directional sign which does not promote or advertise a business, property, or product for each one-way drive, drive aisle, and service or delivery entrance. Such signs shall be located so as not to impair vehicular or pedestrian traffic. The maximum area of each sign is four square feet and the maximum height four feet.

   (5)   Directory signs. One or more directory sign internal to the site within an integrated development. Such sign shall be limited to a maximum sign area of twenty-four square feet and a maximum height of six feet.

   (6)   Display board signs. One or more display board signs, attached to a wall near the entrance to a non-residential use. Such signs shall be limited to a maximum sign area of twenty-four square feet.

   (7)   Flags. Flags representing a country, state, or other civic entity, and decorative flags with no commercial message.

   (8)   Governmental signs. Temporary or permanent signs erected and maintained by or required by the city, county, state or federal government for traffic direction, city entrance, or for designation or direction to any school, hospital, historical site, or public service, property, or facility. Signs shall be non-illuminated or externally illuminated.

   (9)   Garage/yard sale signs. One on-site garage/yard sale sign with a maximum sign area of six square feet and a maximum height of four feet. Such signs may only be displayed during the time of the sale and only in conjunction with an approved garage sale permit.

   (10)   Holiday decorations. Holiday decorations that do not contain any commercial message. Such signs shall be removed within seven days following the holiday or event.

   (11)   House numbers. Street numbers identifying the address of a residence or building, with a maximum sign area of two square feet, including those painted on curbs in compliance with city code.

   (12)   Incidental signs. Signs that do not contain any commercial message, as described in Section 21.76.020.

   (13)   Interior signs. One or more signs in the interior of a building, mall, court, stadium, or enclosed lobby intended for interior viewing only.

   (14)   Memorial wall signs. Commemorative wall signs, wall signs indicating the historical significance of a site or building, and building markers. Such signs shall be limited to a maximum sign area of four square feet each. Signs shall be non-illuminated or externally illuminated.

   (15)   Menu/order board signs. Two menu/order board signs for each drive-in or drive-through business. Each such sign shall be limited to a maximum area of forty square feet and a maximum height of eight feet. Such signs shall be located adjacent to the drive.

   (16)   Non-commercial signs. Non-commercial signs on private property, provided such signs are not located within or over a public right-of-way, over the roofline of any building, or within any required clear vision triangle. Such signs shall have the following size limitations:

      (A)   For residential property, no more than two signs on any one parcel of land with a maximum combined sign area of ten square feet and a maximum height of four feet.

      (B)   For non-residential property, no more than two signs on any one parcel, provided all such signs do not exceed a maximum combined sign area of forty square feet and a maximum height of four feet.

   (17)   Political event sign. Political event and/or demonstration signs during the course of and at the site of a political event or demonstration.

   (18)   Political campaign signs. Campaign signs pertaining to an election to any public office or ballot measure may be erected not earlier than sixty days prior to the election and shall be removed within ten days following said election.

   (19)   Real estate signs.

      (A)   Real estate signs for sale or lease of property on private property, as set forth below. All such signs shall be set back a minimum of five feet from the public right-of-way and located outside of any required clear vision triangle. Signs shall be non-illuminated or externally illuminated.

      (B)   For residential property, one on-site sign is permitted with a maximum sign area of six square feet. A maximum of three attached rider signs are permitted on each real estate sign identifying the agent, special feature, and/or sales status. On weekends and holidays, open house signs are permitted as needed to direct traffic from major collector and arterial streets to the subject property. One sign may be placed for each change in direction, to a maximum of five signs, each with a maximum sign area of six square feet.

      (C)   For non-residential property, one on-site sign is permitted per street frontage, each with a maximum sign area of nine square feet.

   (20)   Repair and maintenance. Sign repair and maintenance which does not alter the type, size, or location of any sign.

   (21)   Residential nameplates. One nameplate identifying the occupants of a dwelling unit, with a maximum sign area of two square feet.

   (22)   Service station fuel pricing signs. On-site service station fuel pricing signs in accordance with California Business and Professions Code Section 20880 et seq.

   (23)   Sign copy change. Sign copy changes that simply replace the sign face without any structural alteration.

   (24)   Signs on bus benches and shelters.

   (25)   Temporary community activity signs. Temporary community activity signs, as approved by the community development director, for a period not exceeding thirty days in duration.

   (26)   Time and temperature signs. Time and temperature signs in non-residential zones with a maximum sign area of twelve square feet.

   (27)   Vehicle signs. Vehicle signs attached to and an integral part of a motorized vehicle or bicycle, if such vehicle is used directly for the transportation purposes of a particular business.

   (28)   Window signs. Window signs, provided that all such signs (both temporary and permanent) do not cover more than a combined maximum of twenty-five percent of the total window area for each window, except as otherwise may be regulated by a discretionary permit.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Abandoned signs.

   (2)   All non-exempt signs without necessary and/or valid permits/approvals.

   (3)   Animated signs.

   (4)   Any sign located within a required clear-vision triangle.

   (5)   Off-site identification signs, except government, civic, and real estate signs as provided in this chapter.

   (6)   Off-site advertising signs, except electronic billboards permitted within the Freeway Commercial (C-F) Zoning District pursuant to Section 21.76.140 of this chapter. Conversion of a non-electric billboard to an electronic billboard is only permitted within the Freeway Commercial (C-F) Zoning District, and is subject to the requirements of Section 21.76.140.

   (7)   Pole signs.

   (8)   Portable signs, including hand-held temporary signs.

   (9)   Roof signs.

   (10)   Signs erected without the permission of the owner (or his/her agent) of the property on which the sign is located.

   (11)   Signs within or projecting over the public right-of-way, with the exception of governmental or city-sponsored civic signs.

   (12)   Signs which purport to be or are an imitation of or resemble official traffic warning devices or signs, that by color, location or lighting may confuse or disorient vehicular or pedestrian traffic, excluding authorized on-site directional sites.

   (13)   Signs painted directly on an exterior wall, fence, fascia, or parapet.

   (14)   Signs with exposed neon tubing or neon tubing enclosed in a sign cabinet with a clear plexiglas sign face, with the exception of exempt window signs.

   (15)   Vehicle signs where the primary purpose or use of the vehicle is the display of advertising matter. This does not apply to signs maintained on vehicles when such advertising is incidental to the primary purpose for which the vehicle is being used.

   (16)   Neon signs including signs with neon tubing enclosed in a sign cabinet with a clear sign face, with the exception of exempt window signs.

(Ord. 722, § 6, 2022; Ord. 627, § 7, 2009; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Maximum area. Each business or entity shall be permitted only one temporary sign with a maximum sign area of one hundred square feet.

   (2)   Location. Temporary signs shall be attached to the main building or wall/fence and shall not extend above the roofline or height of the wall/fence on which they are located. Temporary signs shall not be freestanding or illuminated.

   (3)   Temporary hand-held signs prohibited. Temporary hand-held signs bearing a commercial message shall be prohibited at all locations in the city at all times.

   (4)   Time limitation. Each business shall be allowed a maximum of eighty-four days of temporary signage per calendar year. No single temporary advertising period shall be longer than fourteen consecutive days, and no more than six periods of such temporary advertising shall be permitted within a calendar year. Temporary advertising periods may not be combined.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

 

   (b)   Allowable Sign Area Calculation. The allowable sign area shall be calculated in one of two ways: 1) the sign area assigned to a particular use, or 2) the sign area as a ratio of the length of the primary building frontage for a particular use. Building-attached and freestanding sign area allowances are listed separately. For the purpose of the calculation, building-attached signs shall include all non-exempt wall, canopy, and projecting signs, including non-exempt flags. Similarly, monument signs shall include non-exempt monument signs and freestanding flagpoles with non-exempt flags. Unless otherwise specified, the maximum allowable sign area shall include the combined sign area of all non-exempt signs.

(Ord. 722, § 8, 2022; Ord. 717 § 8, 2021; Ord. 627, § 8, 2009; Ord. 624 § 9, 2008; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

      (1)   Building-attached signs may be placed on building frontages facing a street, parking lot, or mall and shall not be located above the roofline.

      (2)   Wall signs shall not project more than eighteen inches from the building wall, and the sign length shall not exceed seventy-five percent of the building frontage on which it is located.

      (3)   Projecting and canopy signs shall maintain an eight-foot vertical clearance from walkways and may not project into a public right-of-way.

   (b)   Monument Signs. Monument signs may be located in planter medians abutting a driveway or within the project driveway, provided the community development director determines that safe sight-distance is maintained. Changeable copy may be incorporated into a monument sign, provided that the sign area of the changeable copy does not exceed seventy-five percent of the sign area. Monument signs shall be designed to be compatible with the architectural style of the corresponding development.

   (c)   Illumination of Signs. Unless otherwise specified, signs may be non-illuminated, or may be internally illuminated. External illumination may be permitted only with the specific authorization of the community development director. If illuminated, the illumination shall be fixed, steady, and directed or controlled in a manner to prevent glare on streets, walkways, and residential property. For the purposes of public safety, any illuminated sign shall be required to remain lighted at least until 11:00 p.m.

   (d)   Additional Standards for Signs in the CF Zoning District. The following additional standards shall apply to signs located in the CF zoning district.

      (1)   A minimum parcel freeway frontage of two hundred linear feet shall be required for any parcel on which a sign is proposed. For parcels having frontage of less than two hundred linear feet, the sign standards applicable to the C-4 zoning district shall apply.

      (2)   No more than four businesses shall be identified on any one sign structure.

      (3)   For pylon signs, no more than two support pylons shall be used.

      (4)   The sign structure shall be constructed of materials and colors and in an architectural style that correspond to and coordinate with the buildings housing the businesses identified on the sign.

      (5)   Sign characters shall have a minimum height of twelve inches.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Structural and electrical requirements. All signs shall comply with the appropriate detailed provisions of the state building code, as adopted by the city, relative to design and construction, structural integrity, connections and safety. Signs shall also comply with the provisions of the applicable electrical code and the additional construction standards set forth in this chapter.

   (2)   Sign maintenance. All signs shall be maintained in good, operable condition, including maintenance of colors and materials, replacement of defective parts, painted, cleaned, and kept free of graffiti. Any portions of a sign in need of repair shall be identified in writing by the code enforcement officer, along with required action in accordance with enforcement procedures of Chapter 21.14.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   In all cases where a sign or other zoning permit is required by this title or other law, the applicant shall submit to the city a certification, issued under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state, containing an English language translation of all non-Roman alphabet letters, characters, and symbols proposed to be displayed on the sign. An application for such permit shall not be deemed complete until the applicant has provided such certification.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Any off-site sign or billboard becoming nonconforming as a result of this zoning ordinance shall not be required to be removed, except as provided in the California Business and Professions Code Sections 5412, 5412.1, 5412.2 and 5412.3.

   (c)   Any nonconforming pole sign that is not used continuously for any ninety-day period shall be considered abandoned and shall lose its nonconforming status; such signs shall be subject to immediate abatement.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (a)   Subject to subsections (b) and (c), below, off-site signs are prohibited.

   (b)   Any off-site sign legally established prior to April 7, 2022, shall be subject to the provisions of Section 21.76.120. No non-conforming off-site sign may be modified, enlarged, reconstructed, or altered except as expressly authorized by Business and Professions Code Section 5497.

   (c)   Any new electronic billboard, or conversion of a non-electronic billboard to an electronic billboard, for which a deemed complete application has been received after April 7, 2022, to be located within the Freeway Commercial (C-F) Zoning District, shall be subject to the provisions of Section 21.76.140.

(Ord. 722, § 9, 2022; Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (1)   Use regulations. Electronic billboards are only allowed in the C-F Zoning District and only after a development agreement, pursuant to Government Code Section 65864 et seq., has been approved. A development agreement shall be entered into prior to the issuance of a building permit for any project involving construction of a new electronic billboard, expansion or modification of an electronic billboard, or conversion of a non-electronic billboard to an electronic billboard. Any such development agreement shall include compensation to be paid to the city as a result of the installation and operation of the electronic billboard, and to administer such development agreement for the term thereof.

   (2)   Application. A site plan review application is required for each individual proposal to construct a new electronic billboard, modification of an electronic billboard, or conversion of a non-electronic billboard to an electronic billboard, which shall be considered a separate application, and each application shall be separately and individually subject to the provisions and requirements of this Section. Multiple sites, even if located on one parcel, shall not be combined into one application.

   (3)   Findings. The Community Development Director shall not approve any electronic billboard project unless a development agreement has previously been executed between the applicant and the City of La Mirada, and it is determined by the Director that the electronic billboard will not constitute a hazard to the safe and efficient operation of vehicles upon a street or freeway.

   (4)   Locations allowed. Electronic billboards are only allowed in the C-F Zoning District adjacent to the freeway.

   (5)   Prohibited installation locations. Electronic billboards shall not be installed in any of the following locations:

      (A)   On any roof of a building or projecting over the roof of a building.

      (B)   On any wall of a building or otherwise attached or integrated to or suspended from a building.

      (C)   Within or encroaching over the public right-of-way.

      (D)   Any location which would result in a violation of any applicable federal or state law.

   (6)   Landscape segment relocation credits. No new electronic billboard shall be constructed or installed within the city through utilization, in whole or in part, of credits given by the California Department of Transportation or State for relocation of billboards located in landscaped freeway segments. This shall include credits for billboards located either within the city or in other jurisdictions.

   (7)   Development standards.

      (A)   Maximum area. The maximum area of electronic billboards shall be seven hundred square feet (700 sq. ft.) per sign face (e.g., 14 feet x 48 feet).

      (B)   Maximum height. The maximum height of electronic billboards shall be fifty feet (50'), measured from the finished grade at the base of the sign to the highest projection.

      (C)   Maximum number of signs. No property (defined as a single parcel or two or more contiguous parcels under common ownership) shall have more than two double-sided electronic billboards.

      (D)   Minimum distance from another billboard on the same parcel. The minimum distance from another billboard on the same property shall be one thousand feet (1,000') as measured from the vertical centerline of each billboard.

      (E)   Minimum distance from another billboard on the same side of the freeway. The minimum distance from one electronic billboard to another electronic billboard not on the same property but on the same side of the freeway shall be one thousand feet (1,000'), as measured from the vertical centerline of each electronic billboard. The minimum distance of an electronic billboard from existing non-electronic billboards shall be five hundred feet (500'), as measured from the vertical centerline of each billboard.

      (F)   Minimum setback. The minimum setback distance of the electronic billboard column support post shall be at least twenty-five feet (25') from any property line and at least twenty-five feet (25') from any building. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no portion of an electronic billboard shall project beyond the subject site's property line onto or over a neighboring property, street, highway or other public right-of-way.

      (G)   Minimum size of property. The minimum size of any property on which an electronic billboard can be located shall be three acres.

      (H)   Maximum number of faces. No electronic billboard shall have more than two faces. A face shall be considered the display surface upon which an advertising message is displayed and shall comply with the following:

         i.   No V-shape electronic billboards shall be allowed.

         ii.   The two faces of two-sided electronic billboards shall be identical in size.

         iii.   The two sign faces shall be attached directly to and be parallel to each other.

         iv.   The top, bottom and sides of the two sign faces shall be in alignment, and no portion of either face shall project beyond the corresponding portion of the other face.

      (I)   Face orientation. No electronic billboard shall have more than one face (display surface) oriented in the same vertical plane.

      (J)   Name of owner. No electronic billboard shall be maintained in the city unless the name of the person or company owning or maintaining it and the identifying number of the electronic billboard are plainly displayed thereon.

      (K)   Minimum clearance. All electronic billboards shall have a minimum clearance of sixteen feet (16') between the lowest point of the sign and ground level so as not to effect driveways, walkways and provide an attractive nuisance for graffiti and vandalism.

      (L)   Screening. All back or rear non-electronic portions of single-faced or double-faced electronic billboards visible from a public right-of-way or other public or private property shall be screened to the satisfaction of the Community Development Director. The screening shall cover all structural members of the sign, not including the pole supports.

   (8)   Standards of design.

      (A)   All new electronic billboards shall be designed to have a single architecturally enhanced support. When the subject property is developed with buildings/structures the design and finish shall complement the design of the existing buildings/ structures. A plain cylindrical column support post shall not be permitted.

      (B)   All new electronic billboard structures shall be free of any bracing, angle iron, guy wires, cables, antennas, etc.

      (C)   No projections including antennas shall project beyond the sign face.

   (9)   Design and operational restrictions (applicable to conforming and non-conforming billboards).

      (A)   Each electronic billboard shall be structurally engineered to withstand such minimum wind pressure forces as required by the Building Plan Check Engineer, but not less than as required by Business and Professions Code Section 5401.

      (B)   No billboard shall display any statement, words, or images prohibited by Business and Professions Code Section 5402. The required development agreement for electronic billboards may include provisions which preclude: (i) the display of words and/or images which the city or applicant believes will be offensive, obscene, indecent or immoral to a substantial segment of the public; and/or (ii) the advertisement of any product or event which either party considers offensive to a substantial segment of the public, including, but not limited to, marijuana, tobacco products, adult uses such as nude or topless bars or nightclubs, or businesses featuring the sale of adult novelty items, books, magazines, or videos in any media.

      (C)   No billboard shall display flashing, shimmering, glittering, intermittent or moving light or lights. Exceptions to this restriction include time, temperature and smog index units, provided the frequency of change does not occur within four second intervals.

      (D)   No billboard shall include any illumination or message change that is in motion or that change or expose a message for less than four seconds. Continuous motion, including full motion video, shall not be permitted.

      (E)   The utilities of each billboard shall be underground.

      (F)   Each electronic billboard shall be electronically tied into the National Emergency Network and provide emergency information, including child abduction alerts (i.e., "Amber Alerts").

      (G)   Each billboard shall comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

      (H)   Each electronic billboard shall be provided with an ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts the brightness level of the electronic sign based on ambient light conditions.

      (I)   Electronic billboards shall not operate at brightness levels of more than 0.3-foot candles above ambient light.

      (J)   Each electronic billboard shall be designed to either freeze the display in one static position, display a full black screen or turn off in the event of a malfunction.

      (K)   No electronic billboard shall utilize technology that would allow interaction with drivers, vehicles or any device located in vehicles, including, but not limited to a radio frequency identification device, geographic positions system, or other device.

      (L)   Walls or screens at the base of a billboard shall not create a hazard to public safety or provide an attractive nuisance.

      (M)   No billboard shall emit audible sound, odor or particulate matter.

      (N)   No billboard shall simulate or imitate any directional, warning, danger or information sign, or any display likely to be mistaken for any permitted sign intended or likely to be construed as giving warning to traffic, by, for example, the use of the words "stop" or "slow down."

      (O)   No electronic billboard shall involve any red or blinking or intermittent light likely to be mistaken for warning or danger signals nor shall its illumination impair the vision of travelers on the adjacent freeway and/or roadways.

      (P)   No electronic billboard shall be operated or maintained so as to constitute an 'improper display' as described in Business and Professions Code Section 5403.

      (Q)   No electronic billboard shall display messaging for on-site uses greater than 20 percent (20%) of the time in any given hour of the day.

(Ord. 722, § 10, 2022)

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

   (b)   Front Yard Setbacks. The front yard setback is a line parallel to the front property line abutting the street, at a minimum distance measured at right angles from the front property line, except as follows:

      (1)   Corner Lots. The front yard setback shall be measured from the street right-of-way toward which the primary entrance of the main building is directed. Upon approval of a Zoning Clearance Application pursuant to Chapter 21.96, an alternate street right-of-way may be utilized to measure the front yard setback. Approval of the application shall be subject to the following conditions:

         (A)   The application shall be executed by the property owner(s) of record.

         (B)   The application submittal shall include three copies of a fully dimensioned and detailed site plan.

         (C)    The approval to use an alternate street right-of-way to measure the front yard setback shall not create a non-con forming condition. When legal non-conforming conditions exist, the approval to use an alternate street right-of-way may be approved if it is determined that it will reduce the more intensive legal nonconformity.

Figure 21.78.030

Front Yard Setbacks

      (2)   Flag lots. Regardless of the orientation of the main building, the measurement shall be taken from a parallel line established where the access strip meets the buildable area of the parcel closest to the public street or right-of-way.

      (3)   A building on a lot between two lots on which existing buildings extend into the required front yard may have a front yard setback that is not less in depth than the average of that provided on the adjacent lots.

   (c)   Rear Yard Setbacks. The rear yard setback is a line parallel to the rear property line, at a minimum distance measured at right angles from the rear property line, which extends between the side yards, except as follows (see Figure 21.78.030.C):

      (1)   The rear yard setback on the street side of a double frontage lot is a line parallel to the rear property line abutting the street. However, if an access easement or street right-of-way line extends into or through a rear yard, the minimum rear yard setback distance shall be measured at right angles from the access easement or right-of-way line.

      (2)   Where the side lot lines converge to a point with two or three lines, the rear yard setback shall be measured from an imaginary line drawn parallel to the front property line from a distance of five feet from the point at which the lines converge.

      (3)   In the event five or more lines bound a lot, only the two interior lines that intersect a street shall be deemed side lot lines. All other interior lines shall be deemed rear lot lines, with setback measurement representing the converging boundaries of parallel lines drawn from each of the rear lot lines.

Figure 21.78.030.C

Rear Yard Setbacks

(Ord. 710 , § 11, 2019; Ord . 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).

 

 

1.   The combined length of all such features shall not account for more than 25 percent of the length of the wall surface on which the features are located.

(Ord. 612 Exhibit A (part), 2008).