Loma Linda City Zoning Code
CHAPTER 17
18 SIGNS
§ 17.18.010 Purpose.
A.
The purposes of these regulations are to protect and enhance the aesthetic qualities that define and distinguish the city of Loma Linda, to protect the city's public safety and general welfare, to assist property owners and business tenants to benefit from their investments, and to promote economic development and local investment through enhanced aesthetic appeal.
B.
The regulations in this chapter are established to achieve the following:
1.
To provide each sign user the opportunity for adequate business or other identification and information while guarding against the potentially excessive and confusing proliferation of signs by appropriately regulating the time, place, and manner under which signs may be displayed.
2.
To preserve and enhance the community's appearance by regulating the type, number, size, location, quality, design, character, scale, illumination, and maintenance of signs.
3.
To encourage the creation and maintenance of well-designed signs that attract and invite rather than demand the public's attention.
4.
To encourage the design of signs that complement the structures and uses to which they relate.
5.
To ensure freedom of expression for sign uses for both commercial and noncommercial speech by maintaining a content-neutral approach to sign regulation.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.020 Applicability.
A.
Regulatory Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall regulate signs, as defined by this chapter, that are placed on private property, in the public right-of-way, and on property owned by public agencies other than the city and over which the city has zoning authority.
B.
Applicability.
1.
The regulations in this chapter shall apply to all signs in all zones that come within the regulatory scope as defined in subsection A, unless specifically exempted by this chapter.
2.
Sign permits shall be required for specific sign types in compliance with Section 17.18.040 (Procedures for sign permits, exemptions, and revocations). In addition, the provisions of Municipal Code Title 15 (Buildings and Construction) relating to building and electrical codes, fees, penalties, and a method of enforcement shall also apply.
3.
Applications for sign permits that comply with all applicable requirements of this chapter and other applicable laws shall be granted. Signs approved in conjunction with any other application shall be consistent with this chapter, unless otherwise approved by the city.
C.
Nonconforming Signs. An existing legally established sign that does not conform to the requirements of this chapter shall be deemed a nonconforming sign and shall be subject to the requirements of Section 17.18.160 (Nonconforming signs).
D.
Specific Plans. Sign regulations contained in a city-adopted specific plan may vary from the regulations in this chapter. If the adopted specific plan does not provided regulations for sign types or circumstances, the requirements of this chapter shall apply.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.030 General provisions.
A.
Applicability. The rules and regulations stated in this section apply to all signs subject to compliance with this chapter.
B.
Compliance Required. No person shall erect, re-erect, construct, maintain, enlarge, alter, change copy, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or equip any sign or sign structure, or cause or permit the same to be done, contrary to, or in violation of, any provision of this chapter.
C.
Interpretations by Director. Interpretations of the requirements of this chapter shall be exercised in light of the city's content neutrality policy. Where a particular sign type is proposed in a permit application and the type is neither expressly allowed nor prohibited by this chapter, or whenever a sign does not qualify as a "structure" as defined in the California Building Code, then the director of community development or designee shall approve, conditionally approve, or deny the application based on the most similar sign type expressly regulated by this chapter.
D.
Content Neutrality. It is the city's policy to regulate signs in a constitutional manner that does not favor commercial speech over noncommercial speech and is content neutral without consideration of the content of the sign message. Except to the extent that a sign is required to be reviewed to determine whether it is an on-site sign versus an offsite sign (billboard) as defined by this chapter, the sign content of both a noncommercial and commercial message shall not be considered in any manner when a required sign permit or comprehensive sign program application is reviewed. This chapter regulates signs based on "time, place, or manner" standards, where signs are regulated based on the duration they may be displayed, the location where they are placed, their size (area), frequency of placement, lighting, and design. See Section 17.18.040 (Procedures for sign permits, exemptions, and revocations).
E.
Message Substitution. Signs authorized by this chapter are allowed to carry noncommercial messages in lieu of any other commercial or noncommercial messages. Substitution of messages may be made without an additional permitting process. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this chapter. The purpose of this provision is to prevent an inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over noncommercial speech, or favoring of any particular noncommercial message over any other noncommercial message. This provision does not create a right to increase the total number of signs or allowable sign area on a parcel, nor does it affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly constructed.
F.
Property Owner's Consent Required. Signs shall not be displayed without the expressed written consent of the legal owner of the property or authorized representative of the property on which the sign is mounted or displayed. For purposes of this regulation, "owner" means the holder of the legal title to the property and all parties and persons holding a present right to possession, control, or use of the property.
G.
Nuisance Abatement. In addition to the penalties provided for violation of this chapter, any condition caused or allowed to exist in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter shall be deemed a public nuisance and may be abated.
H.
Severability. If any part, section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, sentence, phrase, clause, term, or word in this chapter is declared invalid, the invalidity shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining portions of this chapter.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.040 Procedures for sign permits, exemptions, and revocations.
A.
Sign Permits—When Required. To ensure compliance with the regulations contained in this chapter, a sign permit shall be required to erect, move, alter, change copy on, or reconstruct any permanent sign or sign structure, except for signs exempt from permits in compliance with Section 17.18.060 or signage that has been approved via a comprehensive sign program.
B.
All Permits Required Prior to Establishment. No sign shall be erected or otherwise established on a property until all required permits and approvals have been issued by the community development director or designee and all building, electrical permits and, where applicable, encroachment permits issued by the building division. For all sign permits, an application for a sign permit shall be made in writing on forms provided by the city.
C.
Sign Permits—Approving Authority. The director of community development or designee shall review all sign permit applications for conformance with the provisions of this chapter in accordance with the following.
1.
The director shall act to approve or deny the permit applications within thirty days from the receipt of a complete application and the applicable fees.
2.
If the application is denied, the director shall notify the applicant with the reason(s) stated for denial. Notification shall be sent via method guaranteeing receipt of delivery to the address provided on the application, which shall be considered the correct address.
D.
Planning Commission Authority—Compre-hensive Sign Programs. The planning commission shall have the authority to review and act upon comprehensive sign programs. The process for such review shall be as set forth in Section 17.18.050 (Comprehensive sign program).
E.
Exemptions to Sign Permit Requirements. Sign permits shall not be required for the signs listed as exempt in this chapter. Exempt signs shall not be included in the determination of the total allowable number of signs or total allowable sign area for a site or project. However, exempt signs shall be required to adhere to the development standards and regulations established for each sign type. Signs erected without complying with the applicable regulations are considered illegal and shall be removed in compliance with Section 17.17.180 (Illegal signs). An exempt sign may still require a building permit, subject to the provisions of Municipal Code Title 15 (Buildings and Construction).
F.
Routine Maintenance. Painting, repainting, or cleaning of a sign shall not be considered erecting or altering a sign and shall not require a sign permit unless structural changes are made.
G.
Expiration and Extension of Sign Permit. An approved sign permit shall expire twelve months from the date of approval unless the sign has been installed or a different expiration date is stipulated at the time of approval. Before the expiration of a sign permit, the applicant may apply to the director of community development for an extension of up to an additional twelve months from the original date of expiration. In response to an extension, the director may require modifications or deny the extension.
H.
Revisions to Sign Permit and Comprehensive Sign Program. The director of community development or designee may approve minor changes to an approved sign permit or comprehensive sign program if the intent of the original approval is not affected. Revisions that would substantially deviate from the original approval shall require the approval of a new/revised sign permit or comprehensive sign program as set forth in this chapter.
I.
Revocation of Sign Permit.
1.
The director of community development may, in writing, suspend or revoke a sign permit if the permit was issued on the basis of a material omission or misstatement of fact, or in violation of any ordinance or any of the provisions of this chapter, or if the allowed sign violates any applicable law.
2.
Within thirty days after issuance of the written notice, any sign authorized by the revoked sign permit shall be removed.
3.
Failure to remove the sign display within the thirty-day period shall be a violation of this Zoning Code, and the sign shall be deemed a public nuisance.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.050 Comprehensive sign program.
A.
Purpose. The purpose of a comprehensive sign program is to integrate all signs proposed for a development project with the overall site design and the structures' design into a unified architectural statement, and to allow for modifications to the sign requirements established in this chapter for large properties developed with multiple tenant spaces. A comprehensive sign program provides a means for the flexible application of sign regulations for projects that require multiple signs in order to provide latitude in the design and display of multiple signs and to achieve the purpose of this chapter. A comprehensive sign program shall not be used to override the prohibition on new off-site commercial signs specified in Section 17.18.070 (Prohibited signs).
B.
When Required. A comprehensive sign program shall be required whenever any of the following circumstances outlined below exist. Once a comprehensive sign program has been approved, no individual sign permit shall be required for any individual proposed sign that conforms to the provisions of the applicable comprehensive sign program, as determined by the director of community development. However, building and electrical permits may be required subject to the provisions of Municipal Code Title 15 (Buildings and Construction) prior to the establishment of such sign(s).
1.
For any property with frontage on Interstate 10 where more than one sign is proposed;
2.
For a combination of properties within one thousand feet of the Interstate 10 corridor where at least one property fronts on Interstate 10 and where all uses propose to utilize one single freestanding center identification sign;
3.
For any property within the public facilities zone that is two gross acres in size or larger;
4.
Whenever five or more non-exempt signs are proposed for a single-tenant development;
5.
Whenever an applicant proposes any combination of three or more monument and/or pylon signs along the frontage of a public street;
6.
Whenever an application for a development agreement has been filed to permit private wayfinding signage as off-site signage on public or private property;
7.
Whenever the unique circumstances described in Section 17.18.090(G) (Properties with limited or no street frontage) exist; or
8.
Whenever the director of community development determines that a comprehensive sign program is needed because of special project characteristics (e.g., the size of proposed signs, limited visibility, a business within another business, the location of the site relative to major transportation routes, etc.).
C.
Application Requirements. An application for a comprehensive sign program shall include all information and materials required by the director of community development and the filing fee set by the city's planning division fee schedule.
D.
Review Authority. The planning commission shall be the review authority for a comprehensive sign program.
1.
An application shall be filed on forms provided by the city. Within thirty days of receipt of a complete application and the applicable fees, the director of community development shall schedule the application for a public hearing before the planning commission.
2.
The director shall give notice of such application and of the time and place of such hearing by posting of a notice in at least three public places in the city at least ten days prior to the date of the hearing and by one of the following methods:
a.
By mailing notices not less than five days prior to the date of hearing to the owners, as their names and addresses are shown by the last equalized assessment roll, of real property owners within three hundred feet of the external boundaries of property under consideration; or
b.
By posting said notice in conspicuous places close to the property affected, not less than ten days prior to the date of such hearing, a notice consisting of the words: "NOTICE OF PROPOSED COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAM" printed in plain type letters not less than one inch in height and containing a statement in legible print setting forth a description of the property, the nature of the proposed comprehensive sign program, and time and place of public hearing; or
c.
By placing a legal advertisement in a newspaper of local circulation at least ten days prior to the date of the hearing.
3.
The planning commission shall act to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application. In acting to approve or conditionally approve a comprehensive sign program, the commission shall be required to make the following findings:
a.
That the comprehensive sign program provides for the coordinated arrangement and placement of signage on the property appropriate to advertise the businesses on the property;
b.
That the comprehensive sign program provides for the integration of the project's signs with the design of the structures to achieve a unified architectural statement;
c.
That the site is adequate in size and shape to accommodate all proposed signs;
d.
That the comprehensive sign program accommodates future revisions that may be required due to changes in uses or tenants; and
e.
That the comprehensive sign program complies with the standards of this chapter, except that flexibility is allowed regarding sign area, number, location, and/or height to the extent that the comprehensive sign program will enhance the overall development and will more fully accomplish the purposes of this chapter.
E.
Standards. A comprehensive sign program shall comply with the following standards:
1.
The proposed sign program shall comply with the purpose and intent of this chapter and any sign design guidelines by the city council or planning commission.
2.
The proposed signs shall enhance the overall development, be in harmony with, and relate visually to other signs included in the comprehensive sign program, to the structures and developments they identify, and to surrounding development when applicable.
3.
The sign program shall include all signs, including permanent, temporary, and exempt signs.
4.
The sign programs shall accommodate future revisions that may be required because of changes in use or tenants.
5.
The sign program shall comply with the standards of this chapter, except that deviations are allowed regarding sign area, total number, location, and height of signs to the extent that the comprehensive sign program will enhance the overall development and will more fully accomplish the purposes and intent of this chapter. Any such deviations shall consider the context in which a proposed sign or signs are to be located, with consideration to be given, for example, to the height and sign area of existing signs on surrounding properties, location relative to residential neighborhoods, and the city's aesthetic goals established in the general plan.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.060 Exempt signs.
The signs identified in this section are exempt from sign permit requirements and do not count toward the total allowable sign area limit otherwise applicable. However, the signs described in this section are still subject to applicable building and electrical codes, safety codes, and all other applicable laws and regulations.
A.
Address Signs. Address signs that are required by and conform with the Building Code for the valid purpose of identifying the location of a property for public safety and postal delivery purposes do not count toward the maximum allowable sign area.
B.
Portable Temporary Signs, A-Frame Signs, Feather Flag Signs, and Wind Dancers in Commercial Zones. Portable temporary signs in the form of an A-frame, feather flag, wind dancer, and similar that are placed directly in front of an establishment, located on private property, removed from display at the end of every business day, and comply with all applicable provisions in this chapter regarding temporary signs.
C.
Change of Copy. Changing the copy in an approved changeable copy sign where the sign is in existence as of the adoption date of the ordinance codified in this chapter.
D.
Directional Signs. Monument directional signs erected for the sole purpose of providing directions to specific areas, including, but not limited to, entrances, parking facilities, and on-site facilities may be displayed. Such signs shall have a maximum area of six square feet in area per face and four feet in overall height. Permitted locations shall be limited to one such sign per each public entrance or exit from the parking area and within parking areas. Buildingmounted directional signs shall also be allowed as necessary to direct persons to specific functions of a business with separate exterior entrances. Building-mounted directional signs shall not exceed six square feet in area and shall be situated directly above or to the side of the entrance being identified.
E.
Incidental Noncommercial Signs. Incidental signs individually not exceeding four square feet that are located near entrances, exits, parking areas, and restrooms.
F.
Commemorative Tables, Permanent Memorial, Historical Signs (with limitations), and Building Name Signs. Names of buildings, commemorative tables, and the like when carved into stone, set in concrete or similar material, or constructed out of bronze, aluminum, or other durable material, provided any such individual sign is not more than four square feet in area.
G.
Public Notices and Warnings. Signs displayed by a public body or officer in the performance of a public duty or by any person in compliance with a governmental requirement or legal duty or function. This section applies to and includes signs whose function is to provide legal notice or functional information such as traffic signs, public transit signs, utility company signs, public restroom signs, warning signs, and signs placed by a public agency for the purpose of guiding persons to emergency centers and places of public interest.
H.
Flags. Non-commercial message flags that conform to the following regulations shall be allowed in all zones and shall not require a sign permit.
1.
Flags mounted on a building shall allow for a minimum clearance of seven feet over a pedestrian right-of-way and fifteen feet over a vehicular way.
2.
A maximum of three flags shall be allowed.
3.
The maximum area of any one flag shall not exceed fifteen square feet.
4.
The maximum height of a flagpole shall be fifteen feet in all residential zones and thirty feet in nonresidential zones.
I.
Public Signs within a Public Right-of-Way.
1.
Public signs posted by or for government agencies to provide public information, identify public property, post legal notices, or direct or regulate traffic of any kind.
2.
Bus or train stop signs posted by public transit agencies.
3.
Public utility signs that convey information about its lines, pipes, poles, or other facilities.
4.
Emergency warning signs posted by a governmental agency, public utility, or contractor doing authorized work in the public right-of-way.
J.
Temporary Signs. Signs that meet the definition of temporary signs established in this chapter and comply with all applicable requirements of this chapter.
K.
Window Signs. Signs that meet the definition of window signs established in this chapter and comply with all applicable requirements of this chapter.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.070 Prohibited signs.
The following signs and sign types shall be prohibited in all zones in the city.
A.
Flashing Signs. Any sign that displays an intermittent or sequential flashing light source, exclusive of electronic changeable message signs that meet the standards in this chapter.
B.
Hazardous Location. No sign shall be located in any manner where the sign, or a portion of the sign or sign supports, interferes with the free use of a fire escape, exit, or standpipe; obstructs a required door, stairway, ventilator, or window; encroaches into a public right-of-way without a proper city-issued encroachment permit; blocks doors, windows, or otherwise prevent ingress and egress to or from any window or door; blocks the view of traffic control devices; constitutes a traffic hazard or detriment to traffic safety by obstructing the vision of drivers, or by directing or tending to direct the attention of the drivers of moving vehicles from the traffic movement on the public street and highways; or is otherwise hazardous.
C.
Animated Sign and Moving Signs. Any sign that blinks, flashes, shimmers, glitters, rotates, oscillates, is projected, or which gives the appearance of blinking, flashing, shimmering, glittering, rotating, oscillating, or moving, uses lighting, or special materials to depict action or create a special effect or scene. This classification includes windactuated and other elements (e.g., bunting, pennants, streamers, whirligigs) or other similar devices, except for feather flags and wind dancers permitted as temporary signs. For the purposes of this chapter, time and temperature displays, flags, banners, traditional barber poles, and approved electronic changeable message signs that comply with the provisions of Section 17.18.100(B) (Electronic changeable message signs) are not considered animated signs.
D.
Off-Site Commercial Signs. The city prohibits the construction, erection, or use of off-site signs displaying offsite commercial messages (i.e., billboards), other than those that legally exist in the city, or for which a valid permit has been issued and has not yet expired, as of the date on which this provision was first adopted. The city adopts this regulation to the extent allowed by the law and in compliance with California Government Code Section 65850, California Business and Professions Code Sections 5354(a) and 5408.3 (both effective January 1, 2003), or as subsequently amended. Permits shall not be issued for off-site signs displaying off-site commercial messages that violate this regulation, and the city will take immediate abatement action against signs constructed or maintained in violation of this regulation. This city intends for this off-site sign regulation to be severable and separately enforceable even if other provisions of this chapter may be declared, by a court of competent jurisdiction, to be unconstitutional, invalid, or unenforceable. This provision does not prohibit agreements to relocate existing, legal off-site signs, as encouraged by California Business and Professions Code Section 5412.
E.
Pole Signs. Any sign supported by a single pole or similar single support structure so that the bottom edge of the sign is one foot or more above the ground.
F.
Portable Sign. Any sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently affixed to the ground or to a structure or building. For the purposes of this chapter this does not include permitted temporary A-frame, feather flag, or wind dancer signs. See Section 17.18.060 (Exempt signs).
G.
Roof Signs. Any sign wholly erected, constructed, or placed on top of the roof of a structure, including a mansard roof, and partially or totally supported by the structure.
H.
Signs on Natural Features. Signs that are located and maintained upon trees or painted or drawn on rocks or other natural features.
I.
Supergraphics. Any painted design which covers all or a major portion of a wall, building façade, or other structure.
J.
Vehicle Signs. Signs identifying a business shall not be affixed to or placed in or on vehicles parked in the public right-of-way or on private property in a manner where the vehicle functions as a sign for a business. This regulation shall not apply to buses and taxicabs legally operating within the city limits, business identification signs painted or attached to a vehicle making deliveries or otherwise conducting normal business operations or vehicles owned and offered for sale by the owner, or other allowed uses regulated under other titles of the municipal code.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.080 Standards for all types of signs.
A.
Compliance Required. No person shall erect, re-erect, construct, maintain, enlarge, alter, change copy, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or equip any sign or sign structure, or paint a new wall-mounted sign in the city, or cause or permit the same to be done, contrary to or in violation of any provision of this chapter.
B.
Determination of Sign Location.
1.
The maximum allowed sign area for a sign shall be calculated by first determining if the sign is to be placed on a "primary" or "secondary" frontage (as defined in this chapter) and then referring to Tables 17.18-1 through 17.18-3 in Section 17.18.090 (Permanent signs by zone—Locations and design requirements).
2.
In cases where a building has more than one street frontage, the building frontage with the primary business entrance shall be considered the primary building frontage. For multi-tenant buildings, ground-floor tenants may have their primary building frontage determined independently by the director of community development based upon this rule.
C.
Measurement of Sign Area.
1.
The surface area of a sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all framing, emblem, logo, representation, letters applied to the building without a distinctive background (e.g., channel letters), or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of the smallest square, circle, rectangle, triangle, or other shapes. See Figure 17.18-1 (Sign Area Measurement).
 Figure 17.18-1 Sign Area Measurement |
2.
For an awning or canopy sign, sign copy applied to an awning or canopy shall be computed at one hundred percent of the area within a single rectangle enveloping the sign copy.
3.
For a freestanding sign, the sign area shall include the frame, if any, but shall not include:
a.
Structural supports unless the structural supports are illuminated or otherwise designed to constitute a display device or a part of a display device. See Figure 17.18-2 (Calculation of Freestanding Sign Area).
b.
Features that are not an integral part of the sign (i.e., landscaping). See Figure 17.18-2 (Calculation of Freestanding Sign Area).
 Figure 17.18-2 Calculation of Freestanding Sign Area |
4.
Only one face of a double-faced sign shall be counted in computing the allowed area of the sign. Double-faced (back-to-back) signs shall be counted as a single sign when the sign is mounted on a single structure and the distance between each sign face does not exceed two feet at any point. If the sign is multi-faced (e.g., more than two sides), then each face shall be counted in computing the allowed area of the sign.
5.
Where a sign consists of one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), the sign area shall be measured as the maximum projection upon a vertical plane of the three-dimensional objects, as viewed from a position in the public right-of-way which produces the largest visual projection. See Figure 17.18-3 (Sign Area Measurement for Three-Dimensional Objects). Signs shall not contain threedimensional objects that exceed a projection of six inches from the sign face.
 Figure 17.18-3 Sign Area Measurement for Three-Dimensional Objects |
D.
Measurement of Sign Height. The height of a sign shall be measured from the highest part of the sign, including any decorative features, to the height of the planned finished grade directly beneath the sign. For freeway center identification signs, the height may be measured from the freeway grade closest to the sign to the highest part of the sign.
E.
Sign Construction Materials. All signs that are not temporary signs shall be constructed of weather-durable materials, including, but not limited to, metal, wood, acrylic, or other comparable durable weatherproof materials, as determined by the director of community development. No material more combustible than treated wood shall be used in the construction of any permanent sign.
F.
Consistent Design. Where multiple signs are proposed, all signs shall be consistent with one another in terms of construction material, sign design, letter size and style, support method, and themes. Signs shall be designed to complement the use to which they are related through design elements of similar scale, color, and material.
G.
Sign Proportion and Rhythm. The size and proportion of the elements of the sign's message, including logos, letters, icons, and other graphic images, shall be in general proportion to the use to which they are related. Sign messages oriented toward pedestrians shall be smaller than those oriented toward drivers. Lettering and logos shall not occupy no more than seventy-five percent of the sign panel area.
 Figure 17.18-4A Example of Appropriate Sign Proportion and Rhythm |
H.
Illuminated Signs and Lights. The following standards shall apply to all illuminated signs:
1.
Sign illumination shall not interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties, create a public nuisance, or create public safety hazards. Exterior light sources shall be shielded from view and directed to illuminate only the sign face. The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness or directed in a manner that will create a negative impact on residential properties in direct line of sight to the sign. No sign covered by this chapter shall present a display or any part of a display that exceeds one hundred fifty nits between the end of twilight in the evening and the beginning of twilight in the morning. The city may require a photometric study to ensure compliance with this provision.
2.
Signs may be internally or externally illuminated. Internal illumination shall be allowed only if the sign background is opaque and the only portion of the sign that appears as illuminated is the actual lettering and registered trademark or logo.
3.
Colored lights shall not be used at a location or in a manner so as to be confused with or construed as traffic control devices.
4.
Reflective-type bulbs and incandescent lamps that exceed fifteen watts shall not be used on the exterior surface of signs so that the face of the bulb or lamp is exposed to a public right-of-way or adjacent property.
5.
Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient bulbs.
I.
Sign Removal or Replacement. When a sign is removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. For wall-mounted signs, affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the finish of the building, with sign wiring removed and all holes and other surface blemishes appropriately patched and finished (i.e., painted), subject to the approval of the director of community development.
J.
Conditional Use Permit Required for Electronic Changeable Message Signs. A conditional use permit is required for all signs with electronic changeable messages, meaning any such sign that uses video display, flip-disks, incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, fiber optics, light-emitting diodes (LED), liquid crystal displays, plasma-displays, field emission displays, or any other mechanical or light emitting matrix to convey changing copy, message, or images.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.090 Permanent signs by zone-Locations and design requirements.
A.
Applicability. This section establishes regulations for permanent signs by zone. References in the last column of Tables 17.18-1 through 17.18-3 provide additional regulations for specific sign types located elsewhere in this chapter and identifies required permits.
B.
Either Monument or Pylon as Primary Sign Type. No property shall be permitted to have both a monument sign(s) and a pylon sign(s) as the primary signage. Where the regulations in this section indicate that a monument sign(s) and a pylon sign(s) are permitted, only one such sign type shall be allowed as the primary signage.
C.
Zones Not Specified. Signs in all other zones not specified within this section shall be subject to approval through a comprehensive sign program in compliance with Section 17.18.050 (Comprehensive sign program).
D.
Properties fronting Redlands Boulevard north to the city limits, other than those within special planning area D as depicted in the land use element of the general plan, shall comply with specific regulations listed in Tables 17.18-1 through 17.18-3.
E.
Freeway Center Identification Signs. For any freeway center identification sign, as defined in this chapter, in addition to regulations contained in this section, the following shall apply. In a circumstance where a property is eligible for a freeway center identification sign and lies within the area described in subsection D above, these freeway center identification sign regulations shall apply.
1.
A comprehensive sign program shall be required for any proposed freeway center identification sign. The comprehensive sign program shall only be approved if the planning commission can find in the affirmative all the following:
a.
The signs are compatible with all other sign on the parcels for which the new signs are proposed, including individual freeway gateway signs;
b.
The signs identify all of the parcels as a single center by a proper name for the center intended to be commonly used in other media to identify the property or properties, and that the name of the center shall be a dominant element of the sign by location, size, and prominence in the sign design; and
c.
The parcels eligible for a freeway center identification sign are integrated in design and layout by at least one common feature, including, but not limited to, significant common open space, a common private street, driveway, or parking facilities.
2.
Only one freeway center identification sign shall be allowed per center.
3.
Notwithstanding the sign height requirements specified in this section, the maximum height of a freeway center identification sign may be extended to one hundred feet, subject to all criteria contained in this section, and provided all of the following apply:
a.
The new freeway center identification sign shall be located no closer than one thousand feet from the closest existing freeway center identification sign; and
b.
The freeway center identification sign shall serve a single parcel or collection of parcels having at least one thousand lineal feet of freeway frontage.
4.
In approving a comprehensive sign program for a height extension for a freeway center identification sign, the planning commission, and city council on appeal, shall be required to make the following findings:
a.
The increased height will create increased visibility for the business or businesses that the sign advertises, thus allowing for heightened recognition and improved competition with similar commercial uses in other cities and surrounding areas;
b.
The sign will not create adverse aesthetic impacts due to the casting of shadows, interference with protected views, or glare and lighting that impinges on nearby residential and other sensitive land uses;
c.
A larger freeway center identification sign identifying a larger area and with greater sign separation would be more effective than a freeway gateway sign that follows the regulations of this section; and
d.
As applicable, that the presence of a visual obstruction of the property in question, such as bridges, structures, or vegetation not under the control of the owner/applicant, would prevent a shorter sign from being viewed, or the fact that the orientation of the property to the public right-of-way where the sign is intended to be viewed is unusual.
F.
Bus Shelter Advertising Panel.
1.
Where Allowed. Bus shelter advertising panels are allowed in any zone where a bus shelter associated with a public transit service provider is located, subject to the requirements of this section.
2.
Sign Permit Required. A sign permit shall be required to establish an advertising panel at any public transit center, bus shelter, bus stop, or other public transit-oriented structure that displays a public or commercial message.
3.
Agreement and Encroachment Permit Required. An agreement between the city and the transit provider shall be established as a program to maintain and administer all bus shelter advertising panels. An encroachment permit shall be obtained for all bus shelter advertising panels located in the public right-of-way.
G.
Properties with Limited or No Street Frontage. In any circumstance where a property has no street frontage or less than twenty feet of street frontage (for example, as a flag lot), signage shall be allowed on an adjacent property with the same zone as the subject property, subject to approval of a comprehensive sign program and with the written permission of the property owner on whose property the sign is to be erected.
Table 17.18-1: R-1, R-2 and PC Zones | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Allowed Sign Types | Maximum Number1 | Maximum Sign Area | Maximum Sign Height | Allowed Locations | Illumination Allowed | Required Permit and Additional Regulations |
Multifamily Uses | ||||||
a. Wall or Monument Sign (place of religious assembly) | 1 | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high. Pylon sign: 12 ft. high. | On the property at primary driveway entrances to site. | Yes | Sign permit required. |
b. Wall or Monument Sign (entry monumentation to subdivision or residential development) | 1 per entry, max. of 2. | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high | Entry to subdivision or development. | No | Sign permit, CUP or Precise Plan of Design, as applicable. |
Table 17.18-1: R-1, R-2 and PC Zones | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Allowed Sign Types | Maximum Number1 | Maximum Sign Area | Maximum Sign Height | Allowed Locations | Illumination Allowed | Required Permit and Additional Regulations |
Multifamily Uses | ||||||
a. Wall or Monument Sign (place of religious assembly) | 1 | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high. Pylon sign: 12 ft. high. | On the property at primary driveway entrances to site. | Yes | Sign permit required. |
b. Wall or Monument Sign (entry monumentation to subdivision or residential development) | 1 per entry, max. of 2. | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high | Entry to subdivision or development. | No | Sign permit, CUP or Precise Plan of Design, as applicable. |
Table 17.18-1: R-1, R-2 and PC Zones | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Allowed Sign Types | Maximum Number1 | Maximum Sign Area | Maximum Sign Height | Allowed Locations | Illumination Allowed | Required Permit and Additional Regulations |
Multifamily Uses | ||||||
a. Wall or Monument Sign (place of religious assembly) | 1 | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high. Pylon sign: 12 ft. high. | On the property at primary driveway entrances to site. | Yes | Sign permit required. |
b. Wall or Monument Sign (entry monumentation to subdivision or residential development) | 1 per entry, max. of 2. | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high | Entry to subdivision or development. | No | Sign permit, CUP or Precise Plan of Design, as applicable. |
Table 17.18-1: R-1, R-2 and PC Zones | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Allowed Sign Types | Maximum Number1 | Maximum Sign Area | Maximum Sign Height | Allowed Locations | Illumination Allowed | Required Permit and Additional Regulations |
Multifamily Uses | ||||||
a. Wall or Monument Sign (place of religious assembly) | 1 | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high. Pylon sign: 12 ft. high. | On the property at primary driveway entrances to site. | Yes | Sign permit required. |
b. Wall or Monument Sign (entry monumentation to subdivision or residential development) | 1 per entry, max. of 2. | 48 sf per sign. | Monument sign: 5 ft. high | Entry to subdivision or development. | No | Sign permit, CUP or Precise Plan of Design, as applicable. |
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017; Ord. 764 § 2, 2021)
§ 17.18.100 Specific types of permanent signs.
The following regulations apply to specific types of permanent signs in any zone where such signs are allowed.
A. Blade/Bracket Signs | |
|---|---|
1. Definition of Sign Area | Single or double-faced projecting signs shall be considered a single-face sign for the purpose of calculating sign area. |
2. Sign Location | a. Signs may be placed perpendicular to the building façade (projecting) or mounted flat against the wall near the building entrance. b. For a building on a corner parcel, blade signs are encouraged to be located on the corner or face of the building on the street corner. Corner-mounted blade signs shall be mounted at a 45-degree horizontal angle so that its two sides are equally visible from both streets. |
3. Sign Design | a. Supporting arms or frames for projecting signs shall be of a decorative design compatible with the design of the sign. b. Blade signs shall project no more than four feet from the face of the building wall upon which the sign is mounted. c. Guy wires may be used for lateral support when fully within the horizontal plane of the sign. Any angle iron or secondary support, other than guy wires, shall be enclosed in a form constructed of impermeable material. |
 Blade/Bracket Signs |
B. Electronic Changeable Message Signs | |
|---|---|
1. Where Allowed | Electronic changeable message signs are only allowed on parcels with 100 feet of linear street frontage or greater. In additional to a sign permit, a electronic changeable message sign shall require approval of a Conditional Use Permit, unless any such sign is included as part of a comprehensive sign program. |
2. Sign Display | a. Sign images shall not change more often than every fifteen seconds. b. The images shall change instantaneously, with no special effects or video. c. Any form of moving, animated, oscillating, or rotating images, or any other design intended to attract attention through movement or the semblance of movement on the whole sign or any part of the sign, or any other method or device that suggests movement, is prohibited. |
3. Sign Design | a. Electronic changeable message signs shall be part of a monument or pylon sign only. b. Signs shall have a photometric sensor that will adjust the intensity of the sign for daytime and nighttime viewing. The nighttime intensity shall be limited to 0.3 foot candles (over ambient levels) as measured at a height of five feet above the ground and a distance between 150 and 350 feet from the sign under consideration, depending on the size of the sign, and aimed at the sign. c. At all times, each sign structure shall include a facing of proper dimensions to conceal back bracing and framework of structural members and/or any electrical equipment. During periods of repair or alteration facing may be removed for a maximum period of 48 consecutive hours. |
 Electronic Changeable Message Signs |
C. Changeable Copy Signs (Manual) | |
|---|---|
1. Where and How Many Allowed | a. Changeable copy displays may be installed on marquee, monument, pylon, and wall-mounted signs. The area of the changeable copy display shall be counted toward the allowable sign area for the type of sign upon which the changeable copy is installed. b. The number of manual changeable copy signs is limited to one per property. |
2. Lighting | Manual changeable copy signs shall not be internally lit unless they use opaque inserts with translucent copy, black opaque inserts that are the same color as the opaque portions of the copy are used over all areas of the sign where copy is not present, and the opaque portion of the copy is the same color. |
 Manual Changeable Copy Sign |
D. Channel Letter Signs | |
|---|---|
1. Sign Design | a. Only translucent faces, reverse lit channel letters, or push-through acrylic panels are allowed. b. Exposed raceways are prohibited unless necessitated by structural features and subject to a determination by the director of community development, through the review of any associated permits, that unique conditions exist. Such determination shall be documented in writing. |
2. Sign Lighting | a. Channel letter signs may only be internally illuminated. No open-face channel letters are allowed, whereas the method of illumination, such as but not limited to neon tubing, LED lighting, light bulb arrangement or similar, is exposed. b. A maximum of 10 foot-candles is allowed on any portion of the sign. c. The light source of illuminated channel letter signs shall not be visible from or cast into the right-of-way nor cause glare hazards to passersby or adjacent properties. d. Light sources shall not be mounted to any part of the sign. |
 Channel Letter Signs |
E. Luminous Tube Signs | |
|---|---|
1. Included in Sign Area | Luminous tubes shall be considered part of a sign for purposes of calculating the borders of the maximum allowable sign area. |
2. Sign Design | a. Luminous tube lighting shall be listed with UL (Underwriters Laboratories). b. Tubing shall not exceed one-half inch in diameter. c. Luminous tubes shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., mirrors, polished metal, highly glazed tiles, or other similar materials). d. Luminous tube lighting that surrounds a window, door, or similar element or installed along roofs or that outlines buildings shall be prohibited. |
3. Sign Lighting | a. Luminous tube lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one-half footcandle measured at the residential parcel line. b. Signs shall have thirty milliamps per circuit maximum and a dimmer to reduce brightness. |
 Exterior Luminous Tube Sign |
F. Monument Signs—Additional Standards | |
|---|---|
1. Frontage Requirement | A minimum property frontage on 60 feet shall be required for a monument sign. |
2. Sign Design | a. To ensure that emergency response personal can identify a location, the minimum letter size shall be nine inches. b. Sign copy shall not be located closer than one half-letter height to the sign edge or other line of copy. c. Where there is a center name or identification separate from the primary tenant, the center name or identification shall be provided and predominantly displayed on the primary monument sign and shall be counted towards the allowable sign area. This center name or identification shall be incorporated as a permanent feature of the monument sign. d. Monument signs shall contain an address plate identifying the site address or range of addresses of the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of five inches in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right-of-way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowed sign area. e. Individual channel letters on a background, reverse channel letters, or push-through acrylic letter designs are preferred. f. The base of the sign shall be no less than one-third of the total sign height. |
3. Landscaping | Landscaping with automatic irrigation shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or 75 square feet, whichever is greater. For example, 40 square feet of sign area equals 80 square feet of landscaped area. The director of community development, through the review of any associated permits, may modify this requirement on a case-by-case basis to account for sitespecific conditions. Such modifications shall be documented in writing. |
 Monument Signs |
G. Pylon Signs | |
|---|---|
1. Frontage Requirement | Pylon signs shall be allowed only on parcels with at least 50 feet of frontage adjoining a public right-of-way. |
2. Sign Design | a. To ensure that emergency response personal can identify a location, the minimum letter size shall be twelve inches. b. The supporting structure of a pylon sign shall not include exposed metal pole(s), but shall be surrounded by a decorative cover architecturally compatible with the sign cabinet and the architectural character of building(s) on the site. c. Sign proportion shall be as indicated in Figure 17.18-4B (Pylon Sign Proportions). d. To ensure that emergency response personnel can identify a location, pylon signs shall contain an address plate identifying the site address or range of addresses of the subject property. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowed sign area. e. Where there is a center name or identification separate from tenant identification, the center name or identification shall be provided on the primary pylon sign and shall be counted in the allowable sign area. f. Sign design shall consist of individual channel letters on a background, reverse channel letters, or push-through/through-the-face designs. |
 Figure 17.18-4B Pylon Sign Proportions |
H. Wall-Mounted Signs | |
|---|---|
1. Sign Letter Dimensions | The letter height of accessory wall signs shall not exceed 50 percent of the letter height of a primary wall sign (e.g., if letters on primary sign are 18 inches high, then letters on accessory wall sign cannot exceed nine inches in height). |
2. Sign Location | a. Signs shall be located only on a designated building frontage and shall not extend above an eave or parapet, or above or below a fascia on which they are located. See Figure 17.18-5 (Appropriate Wall Sign Location). b. For a one-or two-story building, the sign may be located at near the roofline of the first or second story. For a building three stories or higher, sign placement shall be limited to the first story or upper story. c. Signs shall be located within the middle 50 percent of the building or tenant frontage measured from lease line to lease line. The director of community development, through the review of applicable permits, may modify this requirement where it can be clearly demonstrated that it severely limits proper sign placement. |
3. Sign Design | a. Electrical raceways shall be integrated with the overall design of the sign. Exposed raceways shall be prohibited. b. Signs shall be placed flat against the wall and shall not project from the wall more than required for normal construction purposes and in no case more than twelve inches. |
 Figure 17.18-5 Appropriate Wall Sign Location |  Figure 17.18-6 Wall Sign Location on Building Frontage |
 Wall-Mounted Sign with Push-Through Metal Letters |  Wall-Mounted Sign with Push-Through Acrylic Letters |
 Wall-Mounted Sign with Push-Through Metal Letters and Approved Painted Sign |  Wall-Mounted Signs on Primary and Secondary Building Frontages |
J. Window Signs—Permanent | |
|---|---|
1. Sign Dimensions and Allowable Area | a. Interior signs within five feet of a storefront window shall be counted as window signs for the purpose of calculating total sign area and number of signs. b. Window signs shall not occupy more than 25 percent of the total window area on either a designated primary or secondary building frontage. For the purpose of this requirement, a window is any glazed area, including glass curtain walls. |
2. Sign Location | Signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground floor and second story of either a designated primary or secondary building frontage. Window signs shall not be allowed above the second story. |
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.110 Wayfinding signs within public right-of-way.
A.
Purpose. The city recognizes that the presence of large-scale institutional uses in Loma Linda with more than two hundred fifty employees attract visitors from throughout the region, and that these institutions create a unique circumstance whereby special signage regulations are needed to direct visitors to such uses and thus provide for smooth traffic flow and improved mobility. For these reasons, the city hereby establishes these regulations to allow for wayfinding signs within public rights-of-way subject to the approval of a development agreement.
B.
Wayfinding Signage Allowed—Requirements. Institutional uses shall be permitted to erect wayfinding signage within any public right-of-way subject to approval of a development agreement by the city council for each individual placement of a sign or group of signs, as well as an encroachment permit pursuant to Section 12.04.080 (Encroachment permit required when) of the municipal code. Any such signage shall be subject to the following minimum requirements, as well as any additional requirements that are specified in an approved development agreement.
1.
Wayfinding signage shall be of a coordinated, uniform nature in terms of color, style, and use of font.
2.
Any such signage shall be designed and erected in a manner that, subject to the determination of the director of public works, will not interfere with safe vehicular traffic and pedestrian movement.
3.
Any such signage shall, subject to the determination of the city council, promote the city's objectives for economic development, traffic regulations, and public safety.
C.
Procedure. Any proposal to erect wayfinding signage within the public right-of-way shall require preparation of a comprehensive sign program pursuant to Section 17.18.050 (Comprehensive sign program) of this chapter. The comprehensive sign program application shall be submitted in conjunction with any materials required for a development agreement application. The director of community development shall have the authority to further determine the application requirements based upon the specifics of each proposed comprehensive sign program for wayfinding signage.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.120 Signs for specific uses.
A.
Drive-Through Establishments. In addition to the signs allowed in Section 17.18.090 (Permanent signs by zone—Locations and design requirements), drive-through food service establishments shall be allowed the following signs subject to the issuance of a sign permit or as part of a comprehensive sign program. The purpose of such signs is to ensure the flow of traffic to and through a drive-through facility in a manner that does not obstruct vehicles on a public right-of-way and does not interfere with pedestrian movement and safety on public or private property.
1.
One freestanding sign oriented to the drive-through lane with copy on a single face not to exceed fifty square feet in sign area and seven feet in height;
2.
One wall-mounted menu board not to exceed fifteen square feet, located in the immediate area of the drivethrough lane only, and readable only on site; and
3.
Incidental signs as defined in this chapter.
B.
Home Occupations. No signs shall be provided in association with any home occupation use.
C.
Multi-Tenant Buildings. Multi-tenant buildings are allowed one additional incidental sign oriented to the pedestrian or vehicle entrance with a maximum area of eight square feet. No illumination is allowed. These business directory signs shall not count towards the maximum allowable sign area for a site. Such signs shall require issuance of a sign permit or shall be identified in a comprehensive sign program.
D.
Places of Assembly. In addition to signs allowed in Section 17.18.090 (Permanent signs by zone—Locations and design requirements), facilities whose activities and events change on a regular basis (e.g., places of worship, skate rinks, theaters, stadiums, etc.) shall be allowed the following additional signs. Such signs shall require issuance of a sign permit or approval of a comprehensive sign program.
1.
Theaters with three or more screens shall be allowed an additional ten square feet of sign area for each screen.
2.
Glass encasements for special advertisements shall be allowed to be affixed to the primary building. Encasements shall not exceed a width of three feet or a height of four feet, the number of which shall be approved by the director of community development via the sign permit process.
E.
Service Stations. In addition to the signs allowed in Section 17.18.090 (Permanent signs by zone—Locations and design requirements), service stations shall be allowed the following signs subject to the issuance of a sign permit or approval of a comprehensive sign program.
1.
Service stations shall be allowed one wall or monument sign for each street frontage. A combination of wall and monument signs may be used, but no more than a total of four signs shall be allowed.
2.
Wall signs shall not exceed ten percent of the building face, with a maximum size of thirty square feet, and not exceed past the roofline or twenty feet above finish grade, whichever is less. A total maximum of two wall signs are allowed per service station.
3.
Monument signs shall be located in a landscaped planter with a minimum area equal to the area of the sign.
4.
Additional incidental signs are allowed up to a maximum of two per each service island, and each such sign not exceeding three square feet.
5.
Signs required or authorized by state or federal law.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.130 Temporary signs.
A.
Applicability. This section establishes regulations for all temporary signs.
B.
Temporary Sign Content Neutrality. All regulations and standards in this section are to be exercised in light of the city's content neutrality policy. These provisions are not intended to limit, censor, or restrict free speech.
C.
Number. The maximum number of temporary signs that may be displayed at the same time is subject to compliance with the applicable requirements of this section. The number and area of temporary signs shall not be included in the calculation of aggregate permanent sign area.
D.
Materials. Temporary exterior signs shall be made of durable, weather-resistant material.
E.
Sign Placement.
1.
Temporary signs are allowed on private property only subject to permission of the property and shall not be placed in any public right-of-way or at off-site locations except as specified in this section.
2.
Temporary signs may be placed only in locations where permanent signs are allowed and shall not be attached to temporary structures. Placement on fences is acceptable.
3.
Temporary signs shall be located a minimum distance of ten feet from the side property line, three feet from the front property line or sidewalk, and at least five feet from a paved road (if no sidewalk exists).
F.
Protected Noncommercial Message and Free Speech Signs. Non-illuminated temporary signs displaying protected noncommercial messages may be displayed at any time. Such signs shall be limited to a maximum height of four feet and a maximum total area of six feet. However, during the time period beginning ninety days before a general, special, primary, or runoff election and ending fourteen days after such election, the amount of display area may be doubled. Any such sign shall be removed within thirty days following the election.
G.
Residential Zones.
1.
Number and Size Allowed.
a.
One sign not to exceed three feet in height or six square feet in area per face allowed.
b.
For signs posted on property that is actively marketed for sale or lease, one sign not to exceed six square feet per face, mounted on a post/arm of maximum six feet in height. The sign may have one secondary attached sign not to exceed one square foot and one brochure box not to exceed one square foot.
c.
Temporary signs located in a subdivision that is actively marketed for sale or lease shall be allowed on the same parcel with a model home, provided the signs do not exceed four in number and ten square feet in area each.
2.
Duration.
a.
For temporary signs posted on a property that is actively marketed for sale or lease, display shall be limited to the time period during which the property is actively marketed for sale or lease. Such signs shall be removed within seven days of the close of sale or lease.
b.
For temporary signs posted on a property on which a one-time event lasting three days or fewer is held, the sign(s) shall be erected no earlier than three days prior to the first day of the event and shall be removed within three days of the last day of the event. For events lasting four or more days, the sign(s) shall be erected no earlier than seven days prior to the first day of the event and shall be removed within three days of the last day of the event.
H.
Nonresidential Zones.
1.
Number and Size Allowed.
a.
One temporary portable sign per property is allowed, except in the case of a multi-tenant center, each business shall be allowed one portable A-frame sign.
b.
One sign not to exceed six feet in height or thirty-six square feet in area is allowed.
c.
For signs posted on a property that is actively marketed for sale or lease, one sign not to exceed thirty-six square feet per face.
2.
Duration.
a.
For temporary signs erected for on a property that is actively marketed for sale or lease, display shall be limited to the time period during which the property or tenant space is actively marketed for sale or lease. Such signs shall be removed within seven days of the close of sale or lease.
b.
For temporary signs posted on a property on which a one-time event lasting three days or fewer is held, the sign(s) shall be erected no earlier than three days prior to the first day of the event and shall be removed within three days of the last day of the event. For events lasting four or more days, the sign(s) shall be erected no earlier than seven days prior to the first day of the event and shall be removed within seven days of the last day of the event.
3.
Allowable Sign Types. Wall-mounted, freestanding, canopy and awning, and portable signs are allowed.
I.
Portable Temporary Signs. The use of pedestrian-oriented, portable signs is allowed in non-residential zones on private properties in addition to other temporary signs and subject to the following standards.
1.
Only businesses with street frontages shall be allowed to have portable signs. Businesses located along private pedestrian arcades/walkways having access to the street may also use portable signs. In addition, each group of businesses located along an arcade/walkway may share one portable directory sign along the arcade/walkway. No business shall have more than one portable sign.
2.
Portable signs shall be utilized only during regular business hours and shall be removed during non-business hours.
3.
Portable A-frame signs shall have a maximum sign area of six square feet per face. The maximum height from ground level shall be three feet and the maximum width shall be two feet.
4.
Portable feather flags and wind dancer signs shall have a maximum height of ten feet and a maximum width of two feet in any direction.
5.
Portable signs may be located on private property, provided they do not interfere with pedestrian movement or wheelchair access to, through, and around the site. A minimum access width of five feet shall be maintained along all access ways and building entrances accessible to the public.
6.
Portable signs shall not encroach into required off-street parking areas, public roadways, rights-of-way, sidewalks, or alleys, and may not be arranged in any manner that creates site distance conflicts or other traffic hazards. Portable signs shall not be placed within the corner curb return areas of intersections.
7.
Portable signs shall have a weighted base capable of keeping the sign upright in a moderate wind.
8.
Materials for portable signs shall be of a permanent nature. Signs shall be constructed of durable, weatherresistant materials and not be subject to fading or damage from weather. The use of paper or cloth is not allowed unless located within a glass or plastic enclosure.
9.
No lighting is allowed on or for portable signs.
10.
Portable signs shall be professionally designed.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.140 Sign maintenance.
A.
Maintenance Required. All signs shall be maintained in a safe, presentable, and structurally sound condition at all times, including the replacement of defective parts, painting, repainting, cleaning and other maintenance activities. Failure to comply with these requirements may cause the sign to be declared a public nuisance, and removed in compliance with this chapter.
B.
Hazardous Signs. If a sign is damaged or not properly maintained to a degree that causes it to pose a physical danger to persons or property, the following provisions shall apply.
1.
Hazardous Signs Identified. A hazardous sign is a sign that poses a danger to the public or that could create a potential hazard. Hazardous signs are declared to be a public nuisance in compliance with the municipal code. The determination that a sign has become hazardous or unsafe shall consider only the physical condition and characteristics of the sign and shall not consider the sign's message content.
2.
Removal of Hazardous Signs. Upon discovering a hazardous condition, the city may cause the immediate removal of a sign(s) which is a danger to the public due to unsafe conditions. No hearing shall be required before the removal of any hazardous sign. The city is not required to give notice of intent to remove the sign(s) before removal, but shall endeavor to do so and shall inform the property, business, and sign owner(s) that the hazardous sign has been removed within three days following removal, by a method that provides proof of delivery.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.150 Enforcement.
In addition to any administrative, criminal, nuisance, or other enforcement procedure, the city may withhold the issuance of business licenses, building permits, grading permits, certificates of occupancy, and other land use entitlements and may issue stop work orders for a development project failing to comply with the provisions of this chapter. If any improvements or programs required by this chapter are either rendered unusable or discontinued, the property owner and tenant may be subject to all enforcement procedures in compliance with the municipal code.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.160 Nonconforming signs.
A.
Continuance of Nonconforming Signs. Except as provided in subsection D, a legal nonconforming sign that complied with all applicable codes and regulation at the time of its establishment may be continued and shall be maintained in good condition as required by Section 17.18.140 (Sign maintenance) and shall conform to the requirements of this chapter to the extent applicable. However, any legal nonconforming sign shall not be:
B.
Repair and Maintenance. Nonconforming sign shall only be repaired in place and shall not be removed from their existing location unless removal of the sign for repair is part of the sign's customary maintenance and repair, subject to the review and confirmation by the director of community development.
C.
Change of Business Type or Ownership. Upon a change of ownership, the new owner of a nonconforming sign may change the content of the sign, provided there is no change to the structure or configuration of the sign, unless repairs are required to ensure public safety.
D.
Removal of Nonconforming Signs.
1.
Any nonconforming sign shall be removed if it is more than fifty percent destroyed and the destruction is other than facial copy replacement. A nonconforming sign shall be deemed to be more than fifty percent destroyed if the estimated cost of reconstruction and repair exceeds fifty percent of the replacement value of the sign immediately before the destruction of the sign, as determined by the building official.
2.
The nonconforming sign shall be removed if the sign is remodeled, unless the sign is remodeled to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
3.
Nonconforming signs shall be removed before the installation of new signs advertising the same business or any new business on the site.
4.
The nonconforming sign shall be removed if the sign is located on a structure to be enlarged or expanded, if the nonconforming sign is affected by the construction, enlargement, remodel, or expansion. An enlargement, remodel or expansion of the portion of the structure upon which the nonconforming sign is located or more than fifty percent of the structure area shall be deemed to affect the nonconforming sign.
5.
The nonconforming sign shall be removed if the sign is temporary.
6.
Any sign that does not comply with this chapter at the time of adoption shall be considered an illegal sign and shall be removed immediately.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.170 Abandoned signs.
A.
Determination of Abandonment. Conforming and nonconforming signs shall be presumed abandoned under any of the following circumstances.
1.
The sign identifies or advertises a business that has ceased for more than ninety days.
2.
The sign is located upon a structure that has been abandoned by its owner for more than ninety days.
3.
The sign pertains to a bona fide business, lessor, service, owner, or product that has been unavailable upon the site for more than ninety days.
4.
The sign has not been removed after the occurrence of a temporary event or activity with an approved temporary use permit.
B.
Removal of Abandoned Signs.
1.
An abandoned sign or an abandoned nonconforming sign shall be immediately removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign is located or by a person, organization, or other entity that directly or indirectly receives a benefit from the information contained on the sign.
2.
A sign frame or structure that has been abandoned shall be immediately removed by the owner or lessee of the premises upon which the sign frame or structure is located.
C.
Abandoned Signs for Closed Businesses. Abandoned signs shall be promptly removed by the property owner or person responsible for its installation and/or maintenance. The city may declare abandoned signs to be a public nuisance and abate it in compliance with Chapter 9.12 (Public Nuisance) of the municipal code.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.180 Illegal signs.
A.
Strict Liability. Violations of this section shall be treated as a strict liability offense regardless of intent.
B.
Illegal Signs Identified. The following signs are illegal, declared to be a public nuisance, and shall be subject to the citation and enforcement procedures and remedies set forth in municipal code Chapter 9.12 (Public Nuisance) and Section 9.24.070 (Administrative citations).
1.
A sign erected, placed, posted, constructed, reconstructed, altered, maintained, or moved after the effective date of this chapter that does not comply with all applicable provisions of this chapter.
2.
A sign erected, placed, posted, constructed, reconstructed, altered, maintained, or moved before the effective date of this chapter or before annexation to the city that failed to comply with all regulations in effect at the time the sign was erected, placed, posted, constructed, reconstructed, altered, maintained, or moved.
3.
A nonconforming sign required to be removed or altered by subsection 17.18.160(D) (Removal of nonconforming signs) and not removed or altered as required.
4.
Signs with flashing elements that are not deactivated in compliance with Section 17.18.160 (Nonconforming signs).
5.
An abandoned nonconforming sign.
6.
An abandoned sign.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)
§ 17.18.190 Definitions.
A portable freestanding sign ordinarily in the shape of an "A" or a similar variation, which is readily moveable and not permanently attached to the ground or any structure. Also referred to as a sandwich board sign or sidewalk sign. See also "Portable Temporary Sign."
A nonconforming sign advertising a use that has ceased or is located upon a structure that has been abandoned for more than ninety days. See "Abandoned Sign." For the purposes of this definition, abandonment for the applicable ninety-day period shall be deemed conclusive evidence of abandonment irrespective of the property, sign, or business owner's intent.
A sign advertising a use that has ceased; is located upon a structure that has been abandoned by its owner; does not identify or advertise a current bona fide business, lessor, service, owner, or product available upon the site; or that identifies or advertises an event or activity that has previously occurred. See Section 17.18.170 (Abandoned signs) for timelines for determining abandonment.
A business establishment under separate management from any other business establishment on the same site.
The numeric reference of a structure or use to a street included as part of a sign.
A structure erected or maintained for advertising purposes upon which any poster, bill, printing, painting, or other advertisement may be placed.
Any change of copy, color, size, shape illumination, position, location, construction, or supporting structure.
A sign that uses movement, lighting, or special materials to depict action or create a special effect or scene. This classification includes wind-actuated and other elements (e.g., balloons, bunting, pennants, streamers, whirligigs), or other similar devices. For the purposes of this chapter, time and temperature displays, flags, traditional barber poles, and electronic changeable copy signs, as defined in this chapter, are not considered animated signs.
A roof-like structure usually covered in fabric (e.g., canvas) that projects from the wall of a structure erected to shield a doorway or window from the elements.
A sign painted on, printed on, or attached to the surface of an awning. See Figure 17.18-7 (Awning Sign).
 Figure 17.18-7 Awning Sign |
An internally illuminated, fixed, space-frame structure with translucent, flexible, fabric reinforced covering designed in an awning form and with graphics or copy applied to the visible surface of the awning.
A sphere of nonporous material filled with air or gas. See also "Inflated Display Sign."
A sign made of fabric or any non-rigid material with no enclosing framework.
A double-sided sign oriented perpendicular to the building wall on which it is mounted (blade sign) or hung (bracket sign). See also "Projecting Sign."
A sign used for general advertising for hire when some or all of the display area is used to display the messages of advertisers or sponsors other than the owner or an occupant of the property on the property on which the sign is located. See also "Off-Site Sign."
An advertising panel located in a public transit center, bus shelter, bus stop, or other public transit-oriented structure that displays a noncommercial or commercial message. See Section 17.18.100 (Specific types of permanent signs).
A permanent roof-like structure of rigid or fabric materials extending from the main entrance of a structure and is typically supported by posts at the corners farthest from where the canopy attaches to the structure. See also "Awning."
Any sign attached to the underside or constructed upon a projecting canopy.
 Figure 17.18-8 Canopy Sign |
Freestanding sign that advertises or directs attention to a shopping center or area having five or more separate businesses located in a single parcel.
A sign with changeable copy changed by incorporating video display, flipdisks, incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, fiber optics, light-emitting diodes (LED), liquid crystal displays, plasmadisplays, field emission displays, or any other mechanical or light emitting matrix to convey changing copy or images.
"Electronic message board signs," "digital signs," "dynamic signs," and CEVMS (changeable electronic variable message signs) are all within this definition. See Figure 17.18-9 Changeable Copy Sign.
A sign with changeable copy manually changed, regardless of method of attachment or materials of construction. This classification includes bulletin boards and changeable copy signs on marquees. Does not include electronic message boards with lighted displays. See Figure 17.18-9 Changeable Copy Signs.
 Figure 17.18-9 Changeable Copy Sign |
Three-dimensional sign face with lettering or logos where the sign is on a different projecting plane than the sign backing or structure.
A message displayed on a sign that concerns primarily the economic interests of the message sponsor or the viewing audience, or both, or that proposes a commercial transaction (e.g., the exchange or sale of goods or services).
On-Site Directional Sign.
A sign intended and designed to provide directions to the public for traffic (vehicular and/or pedestrian), instructions, or facility information of an establishment upon the same property but with no advertising copy (e.g., stop signs, parking, exit and entrance signs) See Figure 17.18-10 On-Site Directional Sign.
Off-Site Directional Sign.
A sign intended and designed to provide public way-finding directions to points of interest or other locations open to the public for reasonably necessary traffic regulation and other public purposes, as authorized by the director, that are located on a property different than the use, place, or activity identified, but with no advertising copy. See Section 17.18.100 (Specific types of permanent signs).
 Figure 17.18-10 On-Site Directional Sign |
 Figure 17.18-11 Off-Site Directional Sign |
The director of the community development department, or the director's designee.
A sign listing the tenants or occupants of a building or building complex.
A sign designed with the intent of providing copy (i.e., message) on both sides. See Figure 17.18-12 Double-Faced Sign.
 Figure 17.18-12 Double-Faced Sign |
A variable message sign that utilizes computer-generated messages or some other electronic means of changing copy. These signs generally include displays using LEDs (light-emitting diodes), CCDs (charge coupled devices), plasma, or functionally equivalent technologies to display a series of still images or full motion, usually remotely programmable and changeable.
Commemorative, historical, or decorative plaques, dates of construction, and the like when carved into stone, concrete, or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum, or other similar durable material.
To build, construct, attach, hand place, suspend or affix to or upon any surface.
A legal, nonresidential use of land to conduct a commercial or noncommercial activity. By way of example and not limitation, this definition includes businesses, factories, farms, schools, hotels and motels, offices, libraries, places of assembly, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, etc., but does not include single-family homes, mobile homes, residential apartments, residential care facilities, residential condominiums, home-based occupations, or hobbies.
The entire building elevation, including the parapet.
The wall of a building front on a street, excluding any appurtenances, such as projecting fins, columns, pilasters, canopies, marquees, showcases, or decorations, but including any required parapet wall.
A temporary, portable freestanding sign of flexible material that includes copy or graphics that flutter or wave, and that is supported by a horizontal or vertical pole that is mounted into the ground and is designed to be removed daily.
A nonmetallic string of ribbons, nonmetallic tinsel, small flags, pinwheels, pennants, or other similar items.
A rectangular or cylindrical piece of fabric of distinctive design, used as a symbol, as a sign device or as a decoration.
A sign that displays an intermittent or sequential flashing light source.
A sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on, or anchored in, the ground and which are structurally independent from any building, including monument signs and pylon signs. See Figure 17.18-13 Types of Freestanding Signs.
 Figure 17.18-13 Types of Freestanding Signs |
A divided arterial highway with full control of access and with grade separations at intersections.
A sign that fronts a freeway within one hundred feet of a freeway right-of-way and whose primary purpose, as determined by the city, is to identify a business to motorists on the freeway.
Building Frontage.
The building elevation that fronts on a street, alley, driveway, parking area, pedestrian plaza, walkway, courtyard, or arcade. See Figure 17.18-14 Example of Building Frontages.
Building Frontage, Corner.
A building elevation(s) that faces a street other than the Primary Building Frontage.
Building Frontage, Primary.
A building elevation that provides the primary source of pedestrian access to the structure.
Building Frontage, Rear.
A building elevation that provides public entrance from the rear side of a building.
Building Frontage, Secondary.
A building elevation that provides the secondary source of pedestrian access to the structure.
Building Frontage, Side Yard.
Any building elevation on the side yard of an interior parcel.
Parking Lot Frontage.
A building elevation which faces a contiguous parking lot serving the use in the building.
Tenant Frontage.
That portion of a multitenant building façade devoted to a single tenant.
 Figure 17.18-14 Example of Building Frontage (for purposes of calculating sign area) |
The level base or specified slope of the public sidewalk or curb closest to the sign or the elevation at the base of the sign. See "Sign Height."
A sign installed without prior issuance of a sign permit; or not in compliance with this chapter; or not a legal nonconforming sign.
A sign lighted with an artificial light source for the purpose of decorating, enhancing, outlining, accentuating, or brightening the sign area.
Externally Illuminated Sign.
A sign illuminated from an exterior light source.
Indirectly Illuminated Sign.
A sign whose illumination is derived entirely from an external artificial source arranged to illuminate the sign area only.
Internally Illuminated Sign.
A sign illuminated from an interior light source contained within the sign cabinet or individual letter, such as a luminous tube sign or LED (light-emitting diode) sign.
A three-dimensional object, other than a balloon, filled or activated by moving or nonmoving air or other gas, located, attached, or tethered to the ground, site, merchandise, structure, or roof and used as a sign or to attract attention. This definition does not include inflated gymnasium-type jumping or sliding devices used temporarily for a non-advertising activity (e.g. children's parties, etc.).
An established trademark or symbol associated with a business or corporation.
A sign that consist of or is illuminated by electrically charged gas-filled tubing (e.g., neon and argon signs) or by fiber optics.
A freestanding sign, the structure of which is supported from finished grade, giving the appearance of having a solid base. See "Freestanding Sign."
A nit is a unit of luminance, or brightness, emitted from a luminous surface equal to one candle per square meter, measured perpendicular to the rays of the source.
Legal Nonconforming Sign.
A legal sign that lawfully existed (i.e., complied with all of the applicable regulations and had all of the required permits) before the effective date of this chapter or amendment thereto, and that does not comply with the minimum sign regulations of this chapter. This also includes legal signs lawfully located on sites annexed into the city after the adoption of this chapter.
Illegal Nonconforming Sign.
See Section 17.18.180 (Illegal signs).
A message or image on a sign that directs public attention to or advocates an idea or issue of public interest or concern but is not advertising for hire or does not promote any business, product, activity, services, interest, or entertainment.
A sign erected on a parcel which is not the location of the business or use that the sign is advertising. See also "Directional Sign."
A sign that advertises commercial products, accommodations, services, or activities not provided in or on the property or premises upon which it is located. The on-site/off-site distinction applies only to commercial messages.
A message on a sign that advertises the commercial business, establishment, accommodation, service, or activity provided on the premises where the sign is located.
A sign painted directly onto a building surface without the use of a face board.
The extension of a false front or wall above a roofline.
The area between the curb face to the property line of a road right-of-way and includes the area normally set aside for sidewalks and landscape improvements.
A sign designed for and directed toward pedestrians so that the pedestrians can easily and comfortably read the sign as they approach and stand adjacent to it. A pedestrian-oriented sign typically is readable from a distance of fifteen to twenty feet.
A sign solidly attached to a building, structure, or the ground by means of mounting brackets, bolts, welds, or other combination of attachment methods, rendering the sign non-moveable or difficult to reposition without the use of machinery, cutting devices, or mechanical devices.
A freestanding sign supported by one exposed poles or similar support structure permanently attached directly into or upon the ground.
A sign that advertises a political candidate, a political party, or a political issue including, but not limited to, a local, state, or national election. See "Noncommercial Message."
Any sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently affixed to the ground or to a structure or building. For the purposes of this definition, the only types of portable temporary signs are A-frame signs, feather flags, and wind dancers.
A building wall sign, the surface of which is not parallel to the face of the supporting wall and which is supported wholly by the wall. See also "Blade/Bracket Sign."
 Figure 17.18-15 Projecting/Blade/Bracket Sign |
The distance by which a sign extends from the building it is supported by. See Figure 17.18-16 Sign Projection.
 Figure 7.18-16 Sign Projection |
Signs of utilities or other publicly regulated service providers indicating danger or similar aids to service or safety, including official advisory and signal flags.
A freestanding sign supported and in direct contact with the ground or one or more solid, monumental structures, or pylons, and which typically has a sign face with a vertical dimension greater than its horizontal dimension. See "Freestanding Sign."
The top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is higher, excluding any mansards, cupolas, pylons, chimneys, or minor projections.
A sign wholly erected, constructed or placed on top of the roof of a structure including a mansard roof, and partially or totally supported by the structure.
Any device, fixture, placard, or structure—including its component parts—that draws attention to an object, product, service, place, activity, opinion, person, establishment, institution, organization, or place of business, or that identifies or promotes the interests of any person and is to be viewed from any public street, road, highway, right-of-way or parking area.
 Figure 17.18-17 Sign Types |
The entire area within any type of perimeter or border which may enclose the outer limits of any writing, representation, emblem, figure or character. See Section 17.18.080(C) (Measurement of sign area).
Any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs or other symbolic representations incorporated into a sign.
The vertical distance from the uppermost point of the sign to the ground immediately below the point or level of the upper surface of the nearest curb of a street or alley, whichever measurement permits the greater elevation of the sign.
The sign, and the supports, uprights, braces, and framework of the sign.
One or more parcels of land identified by the assessor's records and for which an integrated building development exists or has been proposed.
An intentionally conspicuous apparatus using a stationary or moving beam of light to attract attention to a specific location.
A painted design or applied decorative art that covers all or a major portion of a wall, building façade, or other structure. A "supergraphic" is a sign.
A sign, banner, pennant, valance, or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, cardboard, wallboard, plywood, or other light nondurable materials, with or without frames, designed or intended to be displayed for a limited time period and is not permanently installed.
A sign that consists of or has attached one or more three-dimensional objects (balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks).
An electronic or mechanical device that shows time and/or temperature but contains no business identification or advertising.
A word, name or symbol which, with a distinctive type or letter style associated with a business or business entity in the conduct of a business.
A sign that hangs below a canopy, awning, or building overhang.
A sign attached to, erected against, or fastened to a wall of a building or structure, the face of which is in a single plane parallel to the plane of the building wall to which the sign is attached or fastened.
A sign, map, and other graphic or audible method used to convey location and directions to travelers.
A sign that typically contains no copy but resembles a figure or object and is animated by a fan or similar object that forces air into the figure or object to create movement or semblance of movement.
Any sign, whether or not temporary in nature, applied or attached to a window, or located within five feet of the inside of a window in a manner visible from the exterior of the structure.
(Ord. 740 § 1, 2017)