Pico Rivera City Zoning Code

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§ 18.17.010 Purpose and Intent.

§ 18.18.010 Access and Circulation.

§ 18.18.020 Fences, Walls, and Hedges.

§ 18.18.030 Grading and Drainage.

§ 18.18.040 Landscaping.

§ 18.18.050 Outdoor Lighting.

§ 18.18.060 Projections into Setbacks.

§ 18.18.070 Screening.

§ 18.18.080 Street Improvements.

§ 18.18.090 Swimming Pools.

§ 18.18.100 Trash and Recycling Areas.

§ 18.18.110 Visibility at Driveways and Intersections.

§ 18.18.120 Utilities.

§ 18.19.010 Purpose and Applicability.

§ 18.19.020 General Provisions.

A. 

Existing Parking and Loading Areas. Existing parking and loading areas serving any use shall be maintained and may not be reduced in amount or changes in design, location, or maintenance below the requirements for such use, unless equivalent substitute facilities are provided.

B. 

Limitations to Parking and Loading Areas.

1. 

Inoperable Vehicles. Storage of inoperable vehicles for any period of time shall be prohibited within any parking and loading areas.

2. 

Recreational Vehicles. In residential zones, no mobile home, trailer, dismounted camper, boat, or similar recreational vehicle shall be stored or parked in the front yard setback, but may be stored or parked behind the front yard setback on a permitted driveway. No habitation shall be permitted within any such vehicle stored or parked on any property in all zones, unless permissible under Section 18.11.020 (Use Regulations for Residential Zones).

3. 

Commercial Vehicles. The storage or parking of commercial vehicles shall be prohibited on properties in residential and open space zones or along streets within 20 feet of such zones.

4. 

Vehicle Repair. In non-residential zones, repair and servicing of vehicles shall be prohibited within any parking and loading areas. Repair and servicing of vehicles associated with an approved land use shall be conducted within designated buildings and structures. In residential zones, commercial repair and servicing of vehicles shall be prohibited.

C. 

Access and Circulation.

1. 

Applicability. The provisions of this Section shall apply to all development, unless otherwise specified in this Section.

2. 

Vehicular Access and Circulation.

a. 

Access Gates. Developments with controlled vehicular entrances into parking areas with manual or automated access gates shall provide adequate length as determined by the City Engineer to prevent queuing into a street, sidewalk, or walkway. Access gates shall not open into or obstruct a street, sidewalk, or walkway.

3. 

Pedestrian Access and Circulation. For pedestrian access and circulation, the provisions of Section 18.18.010 (Access and Circulation) shall apply.

D. 

Driveways.

1. 

Applicability. The provisions of this Section shall apply to all development, unless otherwise specified in this Section.

2. 

Driveway Dimensions. Table 18.19.020.A (Driveway Dimensions) shall establish the minimum dimensions for driveways. Driveway curb cuts shall, at a minimum, be the same width as the driveway in compliance with Title 12 (Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places) of the Pico Rivera Municipal Code.

Table 18.19.020.A Driveway Dimensions
Driveway Type	Min. Width	Max. Width
Non-Residential Uses
One-way driveway	12 feet	N/A
Two-way driveway	20 feet	N/A
Residential Uses
Single-family with a detached garage	10 feet	10 feet
Single-family with an attached garage	10 feet	18 feet
Multifamily development	10 feet	26 feet

3. 

Turning Radius. The minimum turning radius for driveways serving side-loaded garages in residential zones shall be 15 feet, as shown in Figure 18.19.020.A.

Figure 18.19.020.A Turning Radius

4. 

Garage Conversions. Existing driveways and approaches shall be removed upon conversion of a garage or carport and replaced with landscape screening as required by the Zoning Administrator with the exception of accessory dwelling units.

5. 

Circular Driveways. Circular driveways shall be permitted subject to the approval of the City Engineer and shall comply with the following:

a. 

Circular driveways shall be permitted within the front setback only for parcels with a minimum lot width of 65 feet.

b. 

The maximum width of the circular driveways shall not exceed 12 feet and shall be separated by landscaping with a minimum width of 30 feet that is set back a minimum of 10 feet from the front property line, as shown in Figure 18.19.020.B.

c. 

Circular driveways shall lead to a permitted garage or carport.

d. 

Vehicles shall not park perpendicular to the circular driveway.

Figure 18.19.020.B. Circular Driveways

E. 

Paving and Landscaping.

1. 

Applicability. The provisions of this Section and Section 18.18.040 (Landscaping) shall apply to all development, unless otherwise specified in this Section.

2. 

Striping. All parking areas and loading areas, including parking spaces and drive aisles, shall be striped and signed as provided in this Subsection, and maintained and repaired when necessary. Additional striping and signage may be required when a use of land is subject to the approval and issuance of an AUP or CUP.

a. 

Parking Spaces. White, solid stripes shall be used to indicate each parking space and shall be repainted when the stripes begin to lose their visibility.

b. 

Parking Aisles. White, solid arrows shall be used to indicate the vehicular traffic flow of one-way parking aisles and shall be repainted when the arrows begin to lose their visibility.

c. 

Compact Parking Spaces. Compact parking spaces shall be identified by striping and/or signage.

3. 

Paving, General. All parking and loading areas, including parking spaces and drive aisles, shall be paved with asphalt or concrete so as to prevent dust and mud. At the discretion of the Zoning Administrator, alternative vehicular rated materials may be substituted.

4. 

Paving, Driveways. For all development, with the exception of residential developments containing less than five dwelling units, driveways accessible from the front street shall be clearly differentiated from the parking area through the use of a different paving color and/or material, including, but not limited to, brick or concrete pavers, scored or tinted concrete, exposed aggregate concrete, or similar material in compliance with the Building Code. The differentiation shall apply for a minimum of 15 feet of driveway length and the entirety of the driveway width.

5. 

Drainage. All parking areas shall be graded and drained so as to dispose of all surface water in compliance with Chapter 16.04 (Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention) of Title 16 (Environment) of the Pico Rivera Municipal Code, subject to the approval of the City Engineer. Drainage shall be taken to the curb or gutter and away from adjoining property. In no case shall such drainage be allowed across the surface of a public sidewalk.

6. 

Wheel Stops. Each parking space located within five feet of a building, pedestrian walkway, fence, wall, or landscaped area shall provide a wheel stop. Wheel stops shall be a minimum of six inches high, six inches wide, and 42 inches long. All wheel stops shall be properly maintained and repaired when necessary.

7. 

Landscaping. Parking lots shall be landscaped as follows:

a. 

All required setbacks shall be landscaped.

b. 

A minimum of 5% of the total parking area shall be landscaped. Landscaping shall be evenly distributed throughout the parking lot.

c. 

A minimum of 50% of the required landscaped area shall include evergreen shade trees. Trees shall be distributed evenly throughout the parking lot.

d. 

Landscaped planters shall be constructed with a six-inch-high curb. Planters facing a public right-of-way shall be subject to the approval of the Public Works Director.

F. 

Lighting.

1. 

Applicability. For parking and loading areas serving more than two vehicles, outdoor lighting shall be provided and shall comply with the provisions of this Section and Section 18.18.050 (Outdoor Lighting). If the provisions of Section 18.18.050 (Outdoor Lighting) are in conflict with applicable provisions of this Section, this Section shall govern.

a. 

For parking lots abutting a residential property line, lighting levels shall not exceed an average of one foot candle.

b. 

For parking lots abutting a non-residential use, lighting levels shall not exceed an average of 2.5 foot candles throughout the parking lot.

G. 

Screening.

1. 

Applicability. Parking and loading areas, with the exception of required driveways and drive aisles, shall be screened so as not to be visible from any street and adjacent property utilizing a minimum of one or combination of the following methods, for privacy purposes:

a. 

A view-obscuring concrete or masonry wall in compliance with Section 18.18.020 (Fences, Walls, and Hedges); and/or

b. 

A minimum five-foot-wide landscaping edge, strip, or planter consisting of hedges and/or evergreen trees, where trees shall be spaced to screen views at maturity a minimum 75% of the overall length of the landscaping edge, strip, or planter.

H. 

Visibility. All parking and loading facilities shall be constructed and maintained to provide adequate visibility at driveway and street intersections, in accordance with the provisions of Section 18.18.110 (Visibility at Driveways and Intersections).

(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)

§ 18.19.030 Parking.

A. 

Required Parking.

1. 

Applicability. Table 18.19.030.A (Required Number of Parking Spaces) shall establish the minimum off-street parking requirements per land use, unless otherwise specified in this Section.

a. 

Unspecified Uses. Where the parking requirements for a land use are not specifically listed in this Section, the parking requirements for such a use shall be determined by the Zoning Administrator based upon the requirements for the most comparable and/or similar use, the characteristics of the proposed use, and other relevant information regarding parking demand, such as a parking demand study prepared by a California licensed traffic engineer.

Table 18.19.030.A Required Number of Parking Spaces
Land Use	Minimum Required Parking Spaces
Residential Uses	As specified below
Single-Family Dwellings	2 spaces per dwelling unit, in a garage or carport
Multifamily Dwelling Units	1 space per studio or 1-bedroom dwelling unit
	2 spaces per 2- or more bedroom dwelling unit
	1 guest parking for every 4 units
Hotels and Motels	1 space per hotel/motel room
Live-Work	2 spaces per unit when workspace square footage is less than 600 square feet
	2 spaces per unit, plus 0.5 employee spaces for workspace square footage exceeding 600 square feet and up to 1,000 square feet
	2 spaces per unit, plus 1 employee space and 0.75 guest/visitor spaces for workspace square footage exceeding 1,000 square feet and up to 1,750 square feet
Mobilehome Park	2 spaces per dwelling unit, plus 1 guest parking space for every 4 units
Single Room Occupancy	0.5 space per unit, plus 1 guest space for each 5 units
Residential Care Facility, Assisted Living (> 6 persons)	1 space for every 2 beds
Retail and Commercial Uses	1 per 250 square feet of building floor area except as specified below
Commercial Recreation
Theatre	1 per 3 fixed seats
Other Commercial Recreation:	Parking study required
Eating and Drinking Establishments	1 per 100 square feet of dining/seating area Employee areas 1 per 500 square feet
Outdoor Dining	1 per 100 square feet of dining area
Health and Exercise Clubs/Gyms	1 space per 100 square feet of building area or per a parking demand study prepared by a California licensed traffic engineer
Furniture Store	1 space per 250 square feet of building floor area
Personal Services (Massage, Barbershops, Nail Salon and Beauty Salons)	1 space per 200 square feet of building floor area
Studios (Dance and Martial Arts)	1 space per 200 square feet of building floor area
Vehicle Sales and Services Vehicle Leasing	1 spaces per 250 square feet of lot area
Public/Semi-Public	1 per 250 square feet of building floor area except as specified below
Community Assembly	1 per 75 square feet of assembly area or subject to a parking study as determined by the Zoning Administrator
Day Care Center	1 per 300 square feet of building floor area
Education Institutions, Private	0.10 per student and 1 per classroom
Trade Schools	1 space per employee, plus 1 space per student at maximum enrollment capacity
Medical Facilities/Hospitals	1 per 500 square feet
Medical Clinic and Medical Office Specialist Services	1 per 200 square feet
Public Recreation and Open Space (Passive Recreation)	5.5 per acre of project area
Public Recreation and Open Space (Active Recreation)	Parking study required
Industrial Uses, including Assembly, Distribution and Warehouse	1 per 1,000 square feet of building floor area except as specified below
Auto Repair	1 space per bay plus 1 per 250 square feet of floor area
Self-Storage Facility	1 space per 10,000 square feet of gross rental area, plus 1 per 250 square feet of office floor area
Communication and Utilities	1 space per 500 square feet of floor area

2. 

Calculating Number of Required Parking Spaces. In computing the required number of off-street parking spaces, the following rules shall apply:

a. 

Developments with Multiple Uses. For developments that consist of more than one use, the number of required parking spaces shall be equal to the sum of requirements calculated separately for each use.

b. 

Fractions. When the number of parking spaces requires results in a fraction, the fraction of 1/2 or more shall be construed as one whole number. Fractions of less than 1/2 shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number.

c. 

Net Floor Area. Net floor area shall be used when calculating the required number of off-street parking spaces. Net floor area means the total space in a building enclosed by the exterior walls, excluding the exterior walls, stairwells, elevator shafts, equipment rooms, utility rooms, common hallways, restrooms and other similar areas as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

3. 

Parking for Electric Vehicles. Parking for electric vehicles, including charging stations, for new construction shall be provided in accordance with the Building Code.

4. 

Additional Parking Spaces. An additional number of parking spaces may be required when a use of land is subject to the approval and issuance of an AUP or CUP.

B. 

Parking Reductions.

1. 

Developments Demonstrating Negligible Parking Demand. The Zoning Administrator may waive and/or modify the off-street parking provisions, as set forth in this Chapter for developments that demonstrate, by way of a parking study, a parking demand that will not exceed the capacity of or have a significant impact on the supply of on-street parking in the surrounding area, and/or a negligible parking demand, as characterized by the nature of the use/operation and/or persons residing, working, or visiting the site, including, but not limited to, electrical power generating plants, electrical transformer stations, or other uses which involve a very limited number of persons.

2. 

Joint Use Parking Areas. When two or more uses share a parking area, such as a parking lot or garage, and that the hours of their demand for parking do not overlap, or only partially overlap, then the parking requirement may be reduced subject to the approval of a Parking Agreement or Covenant Agreement as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

3. 

Proximity to Transit. Pursuant to Government Code Section 65863.2, the required off-street vehicular parking may be waived for certain developments within 1/2 mile of public transit, as applicable.

4. 

Parking and Queuing Study. The Zoning Administrator may require the applicant to submit a parking and queuing study, prepared by a person/firm experienced in preparing parking plans, to assist the Zoning Administrator in determining the appropriate waiver or reduction of parking provisions as provided in this Section.

C. 

Dimensions.

1. 

Applicability. All parking areas shall comply with the provisions of this Section and the Building Code. Parking spaces shall be maintained free and clear from obstructions, without exception. The dimensions herein shall apply to any parking place or stall, covered or open.

2. 

Parking Space Dimensions. Table 18.19.030.B (Parking Space Dimensions) shall establish the minimum dimensions for parking spaces.

Table 18.19.030.B Parking Space Dimensions
Parking Space Type	Min. Width (feet)	Min. Depth (feet)
Compact (a)	8	16
Standard	9	20
Parallel	9	22
Accessible	Compliant with Building Code

Note:
(a)	For non-residential uses, compact parking shall not exceed 25% of the total required parking. Compact parking shall be prohibited for residential uses.

3. 

Parking Aisle Dimensions. Table 18.19.030.C (Parking Aisle Dimensions) and Table 18.19.030.D (Herringbone or Overlap Parking Dimensions) shall establish the minimum dimensions for parking aisles and related infrastructure, as shown in Figure 18.19.030.A and Figure 18.19.030.B.

Table 18.19.030.C Parking Aisle Dimensions
A	B		C		D	E		F	G	H
Angle of Parking in Degrees	Width of Section in Feet		Depth of Stall Plus Width Aisle in Feet		Depth of Stall in Feet	Width of Aisle in Feet		Length of Stall Facing in Feet	Width of Stall in Feet	Length of Stall in Feet
	One Way	Two Way	One Way	Two Way		One Way	Two Way
0	30	34	21	25	9	12	16	20	9	20
30	47	51.6	29.8	33.8	17.8	12	16	18	9	20
45	55	53	34.5	38.5	20.5	14	18	12.7	9	20
60	63	63.6	41.8	41.8	21.5	20	20	10.4	9	20
90	66	66	46	46	20	26	26	9	9	20

Supplemental Reference
A	B		C		D	E		F	G	H
35	49.6	53.6	30.8	34.8	18.8	12	16	16	9	20
40	53.4	57.4	33.7	37.6	19.7	14	18	14	9	20
50	56.2	60.2	35.1	39.1	21.1	14	18	11.7	9	20
55	58	60	36.5	38.5	21.5	15	17	11	9	20
65	63.8	63.8	41.5	41.9	21.9	20	20	9.9	9	20
70	63.8	63.8	41.5	41.9	21.9	20	20	9.6	9	20
75	66.2	66.2	44.6	44.6	21.6	23	23	9.3	9	20
80	67.6	67.6	46.3	46.3	21.3	25	25	9.1	9	20
85	67.4	67.4	46.7	46.7	20.7	26	26	9	9	20

Table 18.19.030.D Herringbone or Overlap Parking Dimensions
A	J		K		L
Angle of Parking in Degrees	Width of Section in Feet for Herringbone or Overlap Parking		Depth of Stall Plus Width of Aisle in Feet		Depth of Stall in Feet
	One Way	Two Way	One Way	Two Way
45	52.2	56.2	34.6	38.5	17.7

Figure 18.19.030.A Parking Aisle Dimensions

Figure 18.19.030.B Typical Four-Foot Wall and Wheel Stop

D. 

Location and Orientation.

1. 

Applicability. The provisions of this Section shall apply to all development.

2. 

Same Parcel. Required parking areas shall be located on the same parcel of land with the use in which it is intended to serve and shall not count toward required loading area. For non-residential uses, required parking areas may be located within a radius of 500 feet, measured from the external boundaries of the parcel for the use of land it is intended to serve, subject to the execution of a parking agreement.

3. 

Setbacks. Parking areas, with the exception of required driveways and drive aisles, shall be prohibited within any street setback. Below-grade structured parking garages shall be permitted within the front and side street setback.

E. 

Garages, Carports and Porte Cocheres.

1. 

Applicability. Garages and legally permitted attached structures over driveways, such as porte cocheres, shall comply with the provisions of this Section, unless otherwise specified in this Section.

2. 

Location and Orientation. Detached garages and structures over driveways shall comply with the provisions of Section 18.18.060 (Projections into Setbacks). If the provisions of Section 18.18.060 (Projections and Setbacks) are in conflict with applicable provisions of this Section, this Section shall govern.

3. 

Structures over Driveways. All driveways shall be unobstructed from the ground to the sky, with the exception of legally permitted porte cocheres.

4. 

Design. Garages, carports and porte cocheres shall be constructed to match and/or complement the architectural style, color, material, or finish of the primary building.

5. 

Carports. In single-family residential zones, carports are limited to the rear 1/3 of the lot.

6. 

Porte Cocheres.

a. 

Porte cocheres shall only be permitted over a driveway that leads to a legally permitted garage or carport.

b. 

Porte cocheres shall not count toward habitable space and therefore cannot function as such.

c. 

Porte cocheres shall be fully attached to the side of the residence as follows:

i. 

The porte cochere shall not project beyond the adjacent front porch, as shown in Figure 18.19.030.C Porte Cochere Covered Porch, or the adjacent street-facing residential building wall, as shown in Figure 18.19.030.D Porte Cochere Building Wall, and shall not be located within any required setback area; or

Figure 18.19.030.C Porte Cochere Covered Porch

Figure 18.19.030.D Porte Cochere Building Wall

ii. 

Properties with a permitted circular driveway may also place a porte cochere over the circular driveway if the length of said structure is fully attached to the front of the residence, as shown in Figure 18.19.030.E Porte Cochere Circular Driveway; or

Figure 18.19.030.E Porte Cochere Circular Driveway

iii. 

Where the existing location of an attached garage makes it impossible to place the porte cochere attached to the side of the residence, the porte cochere may be constructed attached to the front of the garage provided that the porte cochere does not exceed six feet in depth and is not located within any required setback area as shown in Figure 18.19.030.F Porte Cochere Attached Garage; or

Figure 18.19.030.F Porte Cochere Attached Garage

iv. 

A porte cochere which projects beyond the adjacent street-facing residential building wall may be constructed if such porte cochere is attached to the residence via a five-foot-long shared wall and maintains a front setback of at least 40 feet, as shown in Figure 18.19.030.G Porte Cochere Setback.

Figure 18.19.030.G Porte Cochere Setback

d. 

All porte cocheres must comply with setback requirements except as permitted in Section 18.18.060 (Projections into Setbacks).

e. 

Porte cocheres shall maintain an opening of a minimum of nine feet, a length of a maximum of 40 feet, and a sheltering capacity of a maximum of two vehicles, either tandem or side-by-side. The roof style, colors, finish, materials and plate height of the porte cochere shall match that of the residence.

f. 

Porte cocheres shall be limited solely to roof supporting posts or columns and shall not be enclosed nor have any walls except for the common walls of the residence and/or garage. Storage space may be provided within the attic space of the porte cochere provided that access to the storage area is by means of a pull-down ladder. Said ladder shall remain closed when not in use. Habitable space, storage rooms and/or roof decks cannot be located above the porte cochere.

g. 

The roof height for a porte cochere shall not exceed 16 feet in height.

h. 

Metal or plastic supporting columns are not permitted unless encased with masonry, wood or other decorative and compatible treatment so as to match the residence.

i. 

Porte cocheres shall be used solely for the shelter of operable vehicles and shall not be used for the storage or shelter of any articles, furniture or other property.

7. 

Garages. All garage doors shall be recessed a minimum of six inches from the building façade and shall include trim of at least 1.5 inches in depth. For residential and mixed-use buildings, garage doors shall incorporate a minimum of one of the following design treatments:

a. 

Windows.

b. 

Paneled surface.

c. 

Two different paint or material colors.

(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)

§ 18.19.040 Loading.

§ 18.19.050 Transportation Demand Management.

§ 18.20.010 Purpose and Applicability.

§ 18.20.020 Permit Requirements.

§ 18.20.030 Sign Classifications.

A. 

Nameplates. This category shall include signage which displays only the business name and property address, hours of operation, credit card accepted (or equivalent) and employment advertisement relating to the business located on the subject premises.

B. 

Real Estate Signs. This category shall include signs or other advertising which relate only to the sale, lease or other disposition of the building, property or premises upon which such signs and other advertising are located, and shall only be temporary in nature, and shall be removed upon disposition of such property or building.

C. 

Construction Signs. This category shall include signs or nameplates which relate only to individuals, businesses or firms directly connected with construction or development projects of a building, property or premises upon which such signs or nameplates are located, and shall only be temporary in nature, and shall be removed upon completion of such projects.

D. 

Directional Signs. This category shall only include signs or sign structures only relating or pertaining to identifying and/or directing vehicular traffic to off-street parking facilities for a business or business complex located on the same property or premises with the business or business complex upon which such parking facilities and directional signs are intended to serve.

E. 

Business Signs. This category shall include all signs and/or sign structures only relating or pertaining to those services rendered or to the use conducted on the property or premises upon which such signs or sign structures are located.

F. 

Promotional Advertising. This category shall only include the display of banners which are directly related to the promotion of grand openings, seasonal sales and/or special events for business establishments. Promotional advertising that does not consist of the use of banners shall be subject to review, approval and/or conditional approval by the Zoning Administrator. All such promotional advertising shall be subject to the specific regulations as set forth in Section 18.20.110 (Purpose and Applicability). The following definitions shall apply:

1. 

A promotional banner is a temporary display of professional quality, mounted flush against the façade of a building, constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, nylon or other similar material, with or without a structural frame, and which does not require a building permit for its construction or installation.

G. 

Nonconforming Signs. This category shall include all signs and/or other advertising of any type whatsoever which do not specifically conform to the provisions of this Chapter.

H. 

Illegal Signs. Signs and/or other advertising which were illegal under the provisions of any other ordinance or other applicable local, State, or Federal law in effect prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Chapter shall still be deemed illegal, and shall be subject to the abatement of and/or compliance with the provisions of this Chapter.

I. 

Window Signage. This category is established to allow professionally painted, attached, glued or otherwise affixed signs within fifteen feet of a window designed to be viewed by the public. Signage to include advertising relating to the business name, services rendered, sales and products subject to zoning consistency review and approval.

J. 

Freestanding Sign. Any sign supported by structures or supports that are placed on or anchored in the ground and that are independent from any building or other structure.

K. 

Monument Signage. A freestanding sign of low, solid design whose entire bottom is in contact with the ground.

L. 

Building Identification Signage.

1. 

Wall-Mounted. A sign attached parallel to a wall erected and confined within the limits of an outside wall of any building. The sign shall have only one display surface, oriented toward a public street or right-of-way. See Figure 18.20.030.A.

Figure 18.20.030.A Wall-Mounted Building Identification Sign

2. 

Parallel-Projecting. A sign located parallel to a wall erected and confined within the limits of an outside wall of any building or structure; affixed to, supported by, or an integral part of a projecting architectural feature, such as a metal awning or canopy, that is permanent and not retractable. The sign shall have only one display surface. See Figure 18.20.030.B:

Figure 18.20.030.B Parallel Projecting Building Identification Sign

M. 

Pedestrian-Oriented Signage. A double-faced nonilluminated identification sign installed perpendicular to a building's façade that is either directly attached to the façade or installed under a canopy so as to be suspended perpendicular above the nearest entrance. The sign shall contain only the name of the business. See Figure 18.20.030.C.

Figure 18.20.030.C Pedestrian Oriented Sign

N. 

Creative Signage. A sign with a high quality of design that meets the creative design criteria within Section 18.20.080 Creative Signage.

O. 

Digital Billboard. This category shall include signs, signboards, or outdoor advertising displays utilizing digital message technology where the message, copy, or graphic on the sign changes more than once every two minutes, but no more than once every four seconds. Digital billboards may include on-site or off-site advertising.

(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)

§ 18.20.040 Prohibited Signs.

§ 18.20.050 General Requirements for All Signs.

§ 18.20.060 Calculating the Area of Signs.

A. 

Sign Area Calculations. For sign applications and permits, all sign plans shall incorporate the following methodology for calculating the area of signs:

1. 

General Area Calculation. Generally, the area of a sign including logos shall be measured as the overall length of the sign multiplied by the overall height of each segment of copy or logo inclusive of background.

2. 

Height of Freestanding Signs. The height of any freestanding sign shall be measured from the uppermost point of the sign/frame, structure to the finished grade immediately below such point.

3. 

Double-Faced Freestanding Identification Signs. Each face of a double-faced sign shall be counted in computing the permitted area of the sign.

4. 

Ascending and descending shapes will be allowed to extend up to 25% beyond the envelop limits provided that the overall allocated square footage is not exceeded. Descender is the part of the lowercase letters, such as "g", "p", and "q", that extends below the other lowercase letters these areas shall be calculated individually and added to the "boxed" area for the main sign body as shown in Figure 18.20.060.A.

Figure 18.20.060.A Ascending and Descending Shapes

(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)

§ 18.20.070 Regulations for Permitted Signs by Zone.

§ 18.20.080 Creative Signage.

§ 18.20.090 Master Sign Program.

§ 18.20.100 Promotional Advertisement.

§ 18.20.110 Nonconforming Signs.

§ 18.20.120 Digital Billboards.

A. 

Purpose and Intent. Digital billboards are recognized as a legitimate form of commercial advertising in the City; however, the size, number, location, and illumination of digital billboards can have significant influence on the City's visual character and quality of life and can, without appropriate controls, create or contribute to visual blight conditions. The purpose and intent of this Section are to allow for development of digital billboards in a planned manner in accordance with the regulations and standards established herein.

B. 

General Requirements.

1. 

The requirements of this Chapter shall apply to the development and construction of any new digital billboard permitted under this code, the expansion, and the modification of an existing digital billboard, including the construction of additional face(s) and/or the digital conversion of an existing billboard.

2. 

Digital billboards shall be permitted within the identified areas along the California Interstate 605 Freeway only after a development agreement has been negotiated and executed between the digital billboard operator and City ("Agreement") in accordance with the terms of this Section. The Agreement shall include specific public benefits to be provided to the City.

3. 

A billboard or digital billboard in existence on the effective date of the ordinance enacting this provision pursuant to a prior agreement (including any amendments or extensions thereof) may be relocated and rebuilt as a digital billboard within the area permitted under Section 18.20.120 of this Chapter. All digital billboards shall comply with this Chapter and all applicable requirements of the California Business and Professions Code and the California Code of Regulations. Pursuant to Section 5412 of the California Business and Professions Code, the Agreement may include provisions related to the relocation or removal of billboards in areas inside or outside the boundaries of the City of Pico Rivera.

4. 

In accordance with the California Business and Professions Code Section 5440, digital billboards not associated with relocation as described in Subsection B.3 above shall only be allowed in those areas not designated as "landscaped freeways" as defined under California Business and Professions Code Section 5216, unless otherwise permitted by State law within Areas 1 and 2 as listed below.

Area 1

Area 2

5. 

In the event of any conflict between any provision contained in this Chapter and any other provisions contained elsewhere in this code, the provisions of this Chapter shall govern.

6. 

No new digital billboard shall be approved, and no existing billboard shall be relocated, converted, or modified without the applicant first providing proof of legal or equitable interest in the site proposed for new construction, relocation or modification, including, but not limited to, a fee interest, lease, easement or other entitlement, demonstrating the right to install and operate the billboard on the subject property. Information to be provided shall include the written consent of the property owner.

7. 

No digital billboard shall be approved for construction, modification, or expansion, and no digital billboard may be maintained, unless the applicant provides evidence that a designated maintenance service is available by telephone and able to respond to a repair call "24/7" in the event a digital billboard becomes damaged or is malfunctioning.

8. 

All digital billboard agreements shall include requirements that applicants obtain all additional Federal and/or State permits for installation. Nothing contained in this Chapter shall require the City to negotiate and/or approve an Agreement on terms that are unacceptable to the City.

9. 

The owner and operator of the digital billboard shall comply with all applicable Federal, State, or local laws when constructing, operating, improving, maintaining, repairing, and removing the digital billboard, including the Highway Beautification Act of 1965 (23 U.S.C. Section 131), the Outdoor Advertising Act (California Business and Professions Code, Section 5200 et seq.), the regulations promulgated to implement the Outdoor Advertising Act (4 Cal. Code Regulations, Section 2242(c) et seq.).

C. 

Physical Requirements.

1. 

The minimum distance between digital billboards, static billboards, or digital billboards to static billboards shall be the same as the minimum distance and separation criteria established by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). All distances shall be measured along the nearest edge of the pavement between points directly opposite the signs along each side of the highway.

2. 

All utilities for a digital billboard shall be underground.

3. 

No digital billboard shall have more than one digital face (display surface) oriented in the same vertical plane.

4. 

The maximum total digital billboard face area on any vertical plane for any digital billboard shall be a maximum of 1,200 square feet per sign face;

5. 

The maximum height of any digital billboard including non-digital sign faces shall be 75 feet as measured from the bottom of the billboard supports to the highest point of the sign face.

6. 

Digital billboards shall plainly display, and be visible from no less than 100 feet, the name of the person or company owning or maintaining digital billboard and the digital billboard identification number.

7. 

Digital billboards projecting over a driveway or driving aisle shall have a minimum clearance of 30 feet between the lowest point of the sign and the finished driveway grade. Digital billboards shall comply with any California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) requirements for placement and operation. No part of any Digital Billboard shall cross onto an adjacent private or public property.

8. 

Digital billboards projecting over a pedestrian walkway shall have a minimum clearance of 30 feet between the lowest point of the sign and the walkway grade.

9. 

Digital billboards not projecting over drive areas shall have a minimum clearance of 30 feet between the lowest point of the digital billboard and finish grade level.

10. 

Digital billboard structures shall be free of any visible bracing, angle iron, guy wires, cable, and/or similar supporting elements. All exposed portions of a digital billboard, including backs, sides, structural support members and support poles, shall be screened to the satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator.

11. 

Digital billboards shall be placed at least 250 feet from any residential zone or residential use, unless it is determined by the Zoning Administrator that based on the photometric study required under Subsection F.1.h that there is no significant additional light intrusion than if the digital billboards are placed at least 250 feet away. The measurement shall be from the closest edge of the billboard to the closest edge of the residential zone or closest property line on which a residential use is located.

D. 

Operational Requirements.

1. 

No digital billboard shall display any statement or words of an obscene, indecent, or immoral character, as that phrase is used in Business and Professions Code Section 5402 and judicial decisions interpreting the same.

2. 

Each digital billboard shall be connected to the National Emergency Network and provide emergency information, including child abduction alerts (i.e., "Amber Alerts"), in accordance with local and regional first responder protocols.

3. 

Digital Billboard Operating Requirements.

a. 

Each static message shall not include flashing lights or the varying of light intensity.

b. 

Minimum display time. Each message shall be displayed for a minimum of four seconds.

c. 

Digital billboards shall not operate at brightness levels of more than 0.3 foot candles above ambient light, as measured using a foot candle meter, at a pre-set distance as set forth under this Section.

d. 

Pre-set distances to measure the foot candles impact vary with the expected viewing distances of each size sign and shall comply with Table 18.20.120.A (Face Size/Distance to Point of Measurement).

Table 18.20.120.A Face Size/Distance to Point of Measurement
Face Size	Distance to Point of Measurement
12 feet x 25 feet	150 feet
10.5 feet x 36 feet	200 feet
14 feet x 48 feet	250 feet
20 feet x 60 feet	350 feet

e. 

Each digital billboard shall have a light sensing device that will automatically adjust the brightness as ambient light conditions change.

4. 

Each digital billboard shall be designed and operated with systems and monitoring in place to either turn the display off or show full black screen in the event of a malfunction.

5. 

Walls or screens at the base of the digital billboard or other support structures shall not create a hazard to public safety or provide an attractive nuisance and shall be continually maintained free from graffiti.

6. 

Digital billboard shall not be operated in such a fashion as to constitute a hazard to safe and efficient operation of vehicles on streets or freeways and shall comply with all applicable local, State, and Federal laws and regulations. Digital billboards operating in accordance with the operating criteria in Subsection D.3 above shall be deemed to be in compliance with this Subsection.

7. 

Digital billboards shall not simulate or imitate any directional, warning, danger, or information sign, or any other display likely to be mistaken for any permitted sign intended or likely to be construed as giving warning to traffic, for example using such words or phrases as "stop" or "slow down."

8. 

Digital billboards shall not incorporate or involve any red or blinking or intermittent lighting that may be mistaken for warning or danger signals nor shall its illumination impair the vision of travelers on the adjacent freeway and for roadways.

9. 

Digital billboards shall be operated and maintained in compliance with Business and Professions Code Section 5403.

E. 

The requirements set forth under Subsections B, C, and D of this Section shall be in addition to any other conditions and requirements contained in the Agreement provided they are not in conflict. If any condition or requirement imposed in an Agreement conflicts with the general requirements set forth in these Subsections B, C, and D, the general requirements of Subsections B, C, and D shall control. For purposes of this Subsection, conditions or requirements contained in an Agreement that are more restrictive than those contained in the general requirements of Subsections B, C, and D shall not be deemed in conflict.

F. 

Application Requirements and Review Procedures.

1. 

Application Requirements. An entity wishing to erect a new digital billboard, relocate an existing nonconforming or conforming billboard or modify and convert an existing billboard into a digital billboard shall submit a request in writing for approval of an Agreement as described under Subsection B of this Section that includes the following:

a. 

The name, address phone number and other contact information of the person or entity proposing the Agreement.

b. 

The location of the proposed digital billboard.

c. 

Information that establishes that the entity proposing the Agreement has legal or equitable interest in the proposed new or relocated billboard along with proof of legal or equitable interest in the site proposed for the above said purpose(s), including, but not limited to, a fee interest, lease, license, easement, or other entitlement demonstrating the right to install and operate the billboard on the subject property. Information to be provided shall include the written consent of the property owner if not readily ascertainable from the foregoing documents.

d. 

Conceptual design drawings of the digital billboard that includes technical specifications to determine the digital billboard's compliance with this Section.

e. 

An explanation of the compensation to be paid or public benefits to be provided to the City.

f. 

Photos of all existing signage, architectural renderings, and elevations of the proposed digital billboard and a scaled site plan and elevations showing the locations of all existing structures and improvements on the property, and the proposed digital billboard and related structures and improvements.

g. 

Photo simulations shall be provided of the before and after physical site appearance from views as specified by the Zoning Administrator.

h. 

A photometric study prepared by a certified lighting engineer demonstrating the proposed digital billboard's compliance with the operational requirements of this Section.

i. 

The applicant shall pay a filing fee as set by resolution of the city council. This fee shall be in addition to any other required fees for permits relative to the development of the property and shall be for the purpose of defraying the costs associated with City's review of the application.

j. 

The applicant shall pay the cost of any environmental studies and reports necessary for the completion of the environmental review of the proposal pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.[1]

[1]

Editor's Note: See Public Resources Code Sections 21000 through 21189.

k. 

Such other documents, materials, or information deemed reasonably necessary by the Zoning Administrator.

2. 

Review Authority.

a. 

The Agreement shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission at a duly noticed public hearing. The public hearing shall be noticed in accordance with Section 18.04.040 (Public Noticing and Hearings). The Planning Commission shall review the Agreement and make a recommendation to City Council whether the proposed digital billboard meets the required findings provided in Subsection F.3 (Required Findings) below.

b. 

The City Council shall conduct a duly noticed public hearing following the Planning Commission recommendation to consider approval of the Agreement by ordinance. The hearing before the City Council shall be noticed in accordance with Section 18.04.040 (Public Noticing and Hearings) of this Title and may be continued from time to time. In order to approve a digital billboard Agreement, the City Council shall make all of the findings contained in Subsection F.3 below.

3. 

Required Findings. The City Council shall find that the proposed digital billboard identified in the Agreement satisfies all of the following findings:

a. 

The proposed Agreement is consistent with the goals, objectives, purposes and provisions of the General Plan, the Pico Rivera Municipal Code, and any applicable Specific Plans;

b. 

The proposed installation site is compatible with the uses and structures on the site and in the surrounding area;

c. 

The proposed digital billboard would not create a traffic or safety problem, including problems associated with on-site access circulation or visibility;

d. 

The proposed digital billboard would not interfere with on-site parking or landscaping required by City ordinance or permit;

e. 

The proposed digital billboard would not otherwise result in a threat to the general health, safety and welfare of City residents; and

f. 

The proposed digital billboard, in addition to its aesthetic treatment, provides substantial public benefits that would not otherwise accrue to the public in the absence of its installation.

(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)

§ 18.21.010 Applicability.

§ 18.21.020 Performance Standards.

§ 18.22.010 Purpose and Applicability.

§ 18.22.020 Accessory Uses.

§ 18.22.030 Accessory Dwelling Units.

§ 18.22.040 Adult-Oriented Businesses.

A. 

All adult-oriented businesses are required to procure and maintain an adult business regulatory permit as mandated by Title 5 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the Pico Rivera Municipal Code.

B. 

Notwithstanding the zones in which adult-oriented businesses may be permitted as identified in Table 18.12.020.A (Allowed Uses and Regulations in Commercial Zones), adult-oriented businesses shall only be permitted in the following locations:

1. 

Parcels fronting along the north side of Slauson Avenue commencing at a point 320 feet easterly of the centerline of Rosemead Boulevard, proceeding easterly to Reeve Road as indicated in Figure 18.22.040.A.

2. 

Parcels fronting along the north side of Bermudez Street, from Bequette Avenue easterly to Reeve Road as indicated in Figure 18.22.040.A.

3. 

Parcels fronting along both sides of Industry Avenue, north of Telegraph Road, and parcels fronting along both sides of Telegraph Road from Industry Avenue westerly to the Rio Hondo as indicated in Figure 18.22.040.B.

4. 

At a distance of at least 150 feet from any existing residential zone or school from the parcels listed above.

5. 

At a distance of at least 1,000 feet of any legally established adult business from the parcels listed above.

C. 

An adult-oriented business or establishment operating as a conforming use with an approved adult business regulatory permit from the City shall not be rendered a nonconforming use by the subsequent location of residential zones or schools within the locational limitations set forth above. For purposes of this Section, a use shall be deemed to be subsequently located if it commences following the date an application for an adult business regulatory permit is filed pursuant to Section 5.22.030 (Adult business regulatory permit required) of Title 5 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the Pico Rivera Municipal Code.

Figure 18.22.040.A

Figure 18.22.040.B

(Ord. 1201, 12/9/2025)

§ 18.22.050 Alcohol Sales.

§ 18.22.060 Animal Keeping.

§ 18.22.070 Automated Teller Machine (ATM).

§ 18.22.080 Automobile Service Stations and Repair Facilities.

§ 18.22.090 Cottage Food Operations.

§ 18.22.100 Drive-Through Establishments.

§ 18.22.110 Family Day Care Homes.

§ 18.22.120 Group Homes.