Temecula City Zoning Code
CHAPTER 17
28 SIGN STANDARDS
Ord- 2025-16_0
§ 17.28.010 Purpose and intent.
It is the goal of the city that the design of this community be of the highest quality, that new development be architecturally distinctive as well as homogeneous in design, and that accessory facilities be compatible with the overall theme. The quality of signage plays a very distinctive role in achieving this goal. When abused, signs can create a visual blight which detracts from the quality of the environment and an individual's visual perception of the city.
The intent of this chapter is to implement the Temecula General Plan, and to protect the public health, safety and welfare through the design, use of quality materials, construction, illumination, location, number and maintenance of all signs. The purpose of this chapter is to set forth the development standards for the installation and maintenance of signs within the city and to ensure that the design and location of outdoor advertising displays are consistent with the health, safety, and aesthetic objectives of the city.
The purposes of this chapter, in addition to those expressed in the General Plan, are as follows:
A.
Provide for effective business signage;
B.
Assure that signs are compatible with the character of their surroundings and the community as a whole;
C.
Preserve and improve the appearance of the city as a place to live, work, trade, do business and visit;
D.
Protect the city from the blighting influence of excessive signage so as to preserve and enhance the economic base of the city and safeguard property values within the city;
E.
Assure that signs are appropriate to the type of activity to which they pertain:
F.
Regulate signs so as to avoid increasing the hazards to motorists and pedestrians caused by distracting signage.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.020 Applicability.
This chapter shall apply to all areas of the city, except that the provisions of this chapter shall apply to the Old Town Specific Plan area only to the extent the specific plan does not address a particular signage issue.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.030 Sign permits.
A.
Sign Permit Required. Except as provided in Section 17.28.050 a sign permit is required prior to placing, erecting, moving, reconstructing, altering or displaying any sign in the city.
B.
Findings. No sign permit shall be issued unless the director finds that the application for a sign permit satisfies, or with conditions can satisfy, all of the following requirements:
1.
The sign is consistent with the General Plan, complies with the requirements of this chapter, and complies with all other applicable laws and regulations;
2.
The size, shape, color, visual elements, illumination and placement of the sign is compatible with the surrounding area and with other lawful signs and does not detract from the character or quality of surrounding properties.
C.
Basis for Denial—Appeal. Any decision of the director denying a sign permit shall be in writing, and shall identify which of the findings set forth in subsection B of this section could not be made, and the reasons therefor. Any decision of the director regarding a sign permit may be appealed, pursuant to the provisions of Section 17.03.090.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.040 Prohibited signs.
All signs not expressly permitted by this chapter are prohibited, including but not limited to the following. No application for sign permit, development plan, or other application for a prohibited sign shall be accepted, acted upon or approved.
A.
Abandoned signs (as defined in Section 17.28.900(D)).
B.
Amenity signs (signs which identify the amenities provided in a multifamily complex that is visible from public street(s)).
C.
Animated or moving signs (except for time and temperature displays pursuant to Section 17.28.050(S)).
D.
Bunting (unless approved by a sign program).
E.
Cabinet or can signs (wall mounted).
F.
Commercial off-premises signs (except as expressly permitted by this chapter).
G.
Commercial Signs Next to Residential Areas. When commercial and industrial developments are facing residential uses and are located on the same local street (sixty foot right-of-way or less) as the residential uses, freestanding signs associated with these developments are prohibited. Wall signs which provide identification for businesses to pedestrians may be authorized by a sign program, provided that the illumination of the signs does not negatively impact residential uses.
H.
Day-glow colors for window signs.
I.
Decorative flags (unless approved through a sign program and then only if limited to focal points within the project).
J.
Loud speakers or signs which emit sound, odor or visible matter, except as authorized by this chapter.
L.
Pennants and streamers.
M.
Portable signs on private property.
N.
Signs Constituting a Traffic Hazard. No person shall install or maintain or cause to be installed or maintained any sign which simulates or imitates in size, color, lettering or design any traffic sign or signal, or which makes use of words "stop, danger," or any other words, phrases, symbols or characters in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead or confuse vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
O.
Signs in Proximity to Utility Lines. No permit shall be issued for any sign, and no sign shall be constructed or maintained, which has less horizontal or vertical clearance from authorized communication or energized electrical power lines than that prescribed by laws of the state or duly promulgated rules and regulations.
P.
Signs located above the eave line and roof signs (signs integrated into an architectural feature are not considered to be above the eave line).
Q.
Signs on Doors, Windows or Fire Escapes. No sign structure shall be installed, relocated or maintained so as to prevent free ingress to or egress from any door, window or fire escape. No sign of any kind shall be attached to a stand pipe or fire escape, except those signs as required by other adopted codes or ordinances.
R.
Signs Within the Public Right-of-Way or Attached to Any Public Property. Signs in any public right-of-way or signs which project over or into a public right-of-way, or which are attached to the public property, are prohibited.
S.
Vehicle Signs. Signs located on or affixed to a motor vehicle or trailer (as those terms are defined in the California Vehicle Code), whether parked on private property or public right-of-way, for the purpose of advertising products or services or directing people to a business or activity are prohibited. This subsection does not apply to standard advertising or identification practice where such signs are painted on or permanently attached to a business or commercial vehicle, so long as such vehicle is licensed and fully operable, and the signs on such vehicle are not in violation of the Vehicle Code.
T.
Exposed raceways.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 2025-12, 8/12/2025)
§ 17.28.050 Exempt signs.
The following signs are exempt from the requirement to obtain a sign permit pursuant to this chapter if they meet these specified requirements; however, they may require building permits:
A.
Construction, Contractor, Financing or Remodeling Signs.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet.
3.
Maximum number of freestanding signs shall not exceed one construction, contractor or remodeling sign per street frontage for each parcel or shopping center plus, one financing sign per street frontage for each parcel or shopping center.
4.
They are permitted for sites with an active building permit and shall be removed five days after construction completion, as evidenced by a certificate of occupancy or final sign-off by the building official, or termination of the building permit.
B.
Employment Opportunity Signs.
1.
Freestanding signs shall only be allowed in office and industrial districts for single tenant buildings, where no other tenants are located on the parcels that occupy an entire parcel.
2.
Window mounted signs shall only be allowed in commercial districts.
3.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall be four square feet.
4.
Maximum sign structure height shall be four feet, if freestanding.
5.
Maximum number of signs shall not exceed one per business per major street frontage.
C.
Flags.
1.
A flagpole shall not exceed the zoning district height limits set forth in Section 17.08.050(H).
2.
A single flag of the United States of America and two of the following flags shall be permitted per parcel or center:
3.
The maximum area for a corporate flag may not exceed fifty square feet.
D.
Future Tenant Identification Signs.
1.
Maximum area for each sign for all freestanding pads and shopping centers with five acres or more in area shall be thirty-two square feet. Shopping centers with more than ten acres in area shall be allowed a one hundred square foot sign for the purpose of identifying multiple tenants.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet for thirty-two square foot signs and twelve feet for one hundred square foot signs.
3.
Maximum number of signs shall not exceed one per street frontage for each center or parcel at any given time.
4.
They shall be removed five days after the tenant occupies the building.
5.
They shall be permitted for sites immediately following entitlement for a period not to exceed one hundred twenty days (and only thereafter with an active building or grading permit).
E.
Garage Sale Signs.
1.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall be four square feet.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet, if freestanding.
3.
The sign may not be erected more than five days prior to the sale.
4.
The signs shall be removed before the end of the day of the sale.
5.
The sign shall not be illuminated.
F.
Government Signs. Any official government sign, including a governmental directional sign, or a public notice or warning required by an applicable federal, state or local law, regulation or ordinance.
1.
Offsite Directional Signs for Public College or Public Universities.
a.
General Requirements.
i.
Each campus shall be permitted no more than three signs within the city of Temecula. The planning director may authorize additional signs if it is determined necessary to serve the public.
ii.
Any sign proposed within the public right-of-way must obtain an encroachment permit and approval by the public works director.
iii.
The maximum height of the pole shall be ten feet.
iv.
The edge of the bottom of the sign shall not be lower than seven feet above ground level.
v.
The maximum sign area for each sign shall be six square feet.
vi.
Signs shall have a royal blue background with white letters consistent with the governmental directional signs located within the city of Temecula and shall not contain any logos or any information other than the name of the public college or public university and an arrow indicating direction of the school. Maximum letter height shall be eight inches.
b.
Findings.
i.
Public colleges and public universities attract a constant influx of new visitors to the area and adequate directional signage is necessary to ensure the safety of the community by providing guidance to nonresidents or the general public unfamiliar with the area. These directional signs help to ensure the general public can safely and easily find the school.
ii.
Higher public education is a local as well as a regional priority driven by public needs and coordination between city government and public colleges/public universities will support and benefit the general public's pursuit of higher education.
iii.
The sign is intended to serve a public college or public university located within the city and conforms to the intent and language of the city's general plan. The size, shape, color, visual elements and placement of the described sign shall be compatible with the surrounding area and with other lawful signs and will not detract from the character or quality of the surrounding properties.
2.
Offsite Wayfinding Signs for Vehicle Dealerships at Temecula Auto Mall.
a.
Findings.
i.
Vehicle dealerships in the auto mall are highly visible from the I-15 Freeway, however, these dealership entrances are difficult to locate once vehicles have exited the freeway.
ii.
The dealerships attract a constant influx of new visitors to the area of the auto mall. Adequate wayfinding signage is necessary to ensure the safety of the community by providing guidance to nonresidents or the general public unfamiliar with the area thereby reducing congestions and illegal turns. The wayfinding signs will help ensure that the general public can safely and easily find the dealerships.
iii.
The wayfinding signs for the dealerships shall not advertise or highlight any brand or product and shall not show the logos of or any information for the dealerships or the products they sell. The signs must merely provide the names of the dealerships in a visible, uniform font in colors that do not reflect any brands or logos.
iv.
The wayfinding signs are intended to serve public purpose and conform to the intent and language of the city's general plan.
b.
General Requirements.
i.
The provisions of this subsection (F)(2) shall apply to businesses selling vehicles in the Temecula Auto Mall as shown on Exhibit 17.04.020 Area B ("Auto Mall") of this code.
ii.
A comprehensive signage program for off-site wayfinding signs, a type of government sign, for the auto mall shall conform to the provisions of this subsection (F)(2) and be approved by resolution of the city council. Wayfinding signs are directional signs, maps, or other graphics used to convey location and directions to travelers. The signage program shall include the number, location, dimensions, sign area, colors, and design of the directional signs. Such signage shall comply with all the provisions of Chapter 17.28 (Sign Standards).
iii.
The city shall install the wayfinding signs as part of the signage program after receipt of payment from automobile dealerships located in the auto mall.
iv.
Sign structure installations shall include "breakaway" design features where required in right-of-way areas.
v.
The wayfinding signs shall only show the name of the dealership and an arrow providing direction to the dealership. The wayfinding signs for the dealerships shall not be illuminated and not advertise or highlight any brand, logo or product or show the logos of or any information about the dealerships or their products.
vi.
The maximum height of the wayfinding signs shall not exceed twelve feet, and the maximum width shall not exceed six feet.
vii.
Wayfinding signs shall not obstruct the use of sidewalks, walkways, bike and hiking trails; the visibility of vehicles, pedestrians, or traffic control signs; or be placed in the immediate vicinity of street intersections.
G.
Helium Balloons.
1.
No balloon shall be larger than three feet in diameter.
2.
They shall not be higher than ten feet from the ground.
3.
They shall not be displayed for more than three days for each calendar month and in no case for more than three consecutive days at a time, except that automobile and truck dealerships may display balloons pursuant to Section 17.04.020(B)(4) of this title.
4.
All balloons shall be anchored, and shall not block vehicular or pedestrian movement.
H.
Holiday Decorations within Commercial, Office and Industrial Districts. Seasonal window displays that contain holiday characters and messages and which are intended to create or enhance holiday character of an area. The displays are commonly associated with national, state, local or religious holidays (and which do not reference or display services available or rendered, or goods produced, sold or available for sale). They may be displayed for a period not exceeding forty-five consecutive calendar days and a maximum of sixty cumulative days per calendar year.
I.
Incidental Signs, i.e., Name of Business, Name Plates, Street Address, Telephone Numbers, Open, Close, Hours of Operation, Credit Cards, etc.
L.
Model Home and Multiple-family Rental Complex Flags.
1.
Flag poles shall not exceed the zoning district height limits set forth in the development code or fifty feet, if no height limit is provided by the development code.
2.
Maximum number shall not exceed two per each model home or four per multiple-family rental complex.
3.
Shall be located on the model home lots, the parking lot, or the sales office or the multiple-family rental complex.
4.
They may only identify the builder and the subdivision name or the name of the multiple-family rental complex.
5.
Multiple-family rental complex flags shall only be displayed in the third quarter of the year.
N.
Name Plates and Street Address Signs.
O.
Noncommercial Off-Premises Signs.
1.
Maximum area of the sign board shall not exceed twelve square feet.
2.
Maximum number of signs per parcel shall be one. However, there shall be no limit on the number of signs during the ninety days prior to a state, federal or local election and fourteen days after the election. A sign erected or placed for a candidate who prevails in a primary election may be maintained until ten days after the final election.
3.
The maximum height of a ground-mounted sign shall not exceed six feet measured from grade.
4.
The signs shall not be illuminated.
5.
The signs shall not be erected, placed or maintained:
a.
Upon any private property without the consent of the owner, lessee or person on lawful possession of such property;
b.
On any public property or upon any portion of a public right-of-way;
c.
To obscure the view of any fire hydrant, traffic sign, traffic signal, street sign, or public information sign;
d.
To block lines of sight to areas of vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
P.
On Wall or Window Menu Signs for Restaurants.
1.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall be four square feet.
2.
They shall be attached to the building or associated entry structure.
3.
Maximum of signs shall be one per restaurant entrance.
4.
They shall not be intended to be used for advertisement and will only serve as information to customers who have found the restaurant and are standing by the front door.
5.
They shall be located at or near the major customer entrance.
6.
They shall not be counted as permissible area for window signs.
R.
Public Convenience and Warning Signs.
1.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall not exceed three square feet.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall not exceed three feet, if freestanding.
3.
Maximum number shall be as necessary.
4.
They may identify restrooms, public telephones, walkways, no parking, no trespassing and similar signs.
5.
They shall be located on private property.
6.
They shall contain no advertising messages.
S.
Time and Temperature Signs.
1.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall be sixteen square feet.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet, if freestanding.
3.
Maximum number of signs shall not exceed one per building or parcel.
4.
No advertising shall be permitted.
5.
Wall mounted signs are counted as part of the permitted sign area of the elevation, where they are placed on. Freestanding signs shall be an integral part of a permitted freestanding sign and shall be counted as part of the permitted sign area of the freestanding sign.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 99-24 § 5(M); Ord. 05-06 § 7; Ord. 08-08 § 9; Ord. 10-07 § 24; Ord. 23-03 § 19; Ord. 2025-01, 2/25/2025)
§ 17.28.060 Real estate signs.
Real estate signs that comply with the provisions of this section are exempt from the requirement to obtain a sign permit.
A.
On-Site Real Estate Signs (For Sale, For Rent, For Lease, Sold, etc.) in Commercial, Office, and Industrial Districts.
1.
They shall not be permanent in nature and may only be permitted at such time as the property or structure is available for sale, lease or rent.
3.
The sign structure height for freestanding signs shall not exceed eight feet measured from grade.
4.
Maximum number permitted is one sign per street frontage for each parcel or center. Plus, one window sign is permitted per available suite. In addition, one freeway oriented sign is permitted per parcel or center with freeway frontage.
5.
They shall only be posted on private property.
6.
They shall not be closer than five feet to the property line or seventeen feet from the face of the curb, whichever is less.
7.
They shall be a minimum of one hundred fifty linear feet from all other freestanding signs including real estate signs.
8.
They shall not be located within seventy-five feet of an intersection or an access driveway, except that nothing in this chapter shall preclude a parcel or center from having at least one freestanding real estate sign.
9.
The angle of v-shaped signs shall not exceed ninety degrees. The back side of a v-shaped sign shall not be visible from the public right-of-way.
10.
Appropriate materials are wood, metal and stucco. Other materials are subject to director approval.
11.
Illumination is not permitted.
12.
They shall be maintained in a clean, orderly fashion at all times and shall be removed ten days after the close of escrow or after a rental agreement or lease has been entered into, whichever occurs first.
B.
On-Site Real Estate Signs (For Sale, For Rent, For Lease, Sold, Open House, etc.) in all Residential, Public Institutional and Open Space Districts.
1.
They shall not be permanent in nature and may only be permitted at such time as property or structure is available for sale, lease or rent.
4.
Property with existing residential units for sale, resale, lease or rent shall be permitted one sign per street frontage.
5.
They shall only be posted on the subject private property.
6.
Open house signs shall only be displayed between the hours of eight a.m. and dusk.
7.
The angle of v-shaped signs shall not exceed ninety degrees. The back side of a v-shaped sign shall not be visible from the public right-of-way.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.070 General requirements for permanent signs.
Permanent signs shall be subject to the following standards to insure the quality of signage in the city.
A.
Standards for Permanent Freestanding Signs.
1.
Location.
a.
All freestanding signs shall be set back at least five feet from the right-of-way or property line or seventeen feet from the face of the curb, whichever is less.
b.
All freestanding signs shall be located outside the site visibility area as defined by Section 17.06.050(J) of this title.
c.
All freestanding signs shall be located at least three feet from buildings.
d.
The face of any freestanding sign shall not be oriented parallel to the street, except when the sign is located at the end of cul-de-sacs, knuckles or other appropriate locations as approved by the director.
e.
The minimum distance between freestanding signs located on the same side of the street and under six feet in height shall not be less than one hundred fifty feet, except center identification signs located on the same driveway.
f.
The minimum distance between freestanding signs located on the same side of the street and over six feet shall not be less than two hundred fifty feet.
g.
The director shall have the authority to reduce the distance requirements in subsections (A)(1)(e) and (f) of this section by twenty percent in case of unusual circumstances such as presence of driveways, landscaping, utility poles, etc.
2.
Height.
a.
Sign structure height is measured from the extreme top portion of a freestanding sign to the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, the elevation of the finished surface of the road shall be used.
b.
The height of sign structures located on slopes shall be measured from the highest point of the sign to the highest point of slope where the sign structure meets ground. Berming of up to two feet may be allowed in addition to the maximum height allowed for the sign structure.
c.
Berming height shall be measured from the lowest portion of the base of the sign structure to the sidewalk elevation.
3.
Design.
a.
Except for the changeable portions of movie signs for theaters and changeable portions of price signs for gas stations, which may use plastic backgrounds, the use of can-type box signs with plastic panels or background are prohibited for tenant and building identification signs. Sign panels or background shall be of material commonly used in the buildings or the center. Logo boxes are not subject to this requirement.
b.
Center identification signs shall use a background material commonly used in the center buildings. Can-type box signs are not permitted. Flood lighting is strongly encouraged when consistent with Riverside County Ordinance 655, Palomar light pollution ordinance; however, internal illumination of the individual letters are only permitted if reverse channel lettering is used.
c.
Multitenant signs shall be uniform in background color for all tenants.
d.
All freestanding signs shall be limited in size to the width of the architectural features of the sign.
e.
All freestanding signs shall use architectural elements at the top, base and sides of the signs.
f.
If a building or center identification sign is proposed within seventy-five feet of a major intersection, it shall incorporate a community feature (i.e., water features, public art, unique landscape designs, public spaces). Community features are intended as a benefit to the public and shall not include any commercial advertising or business identification.
g.
Sign colors shall be selected that provide a significant contrast between the background colors and the letters.
h.
All freestanding signs may be permitted a maximum of two sides except that center identification signs shall be one-sided.
i.
Center identification signs shall not advertise tenants; however, if the center is named after a major tenant, it is permissible to mention that tenant's name as part of the center name.
j.
Center identification signs shall be incorporated into the entry statement, architecture and landscaping area.
k.
Freestanding single tenant signs or service station signs with a height of six feet or less shall be constructed as monument signs.
l.
Freestanding multitenant signs, theater signs, or freeway oriented signs shall be constructed as either monument or pylon signs.
4.
Landscaping.
a.
All freestanding tenant identification signs and building identification signs shall be required to be located within a planted landscaped area which extends on all four sides of the sign. The landscaping area shall be provided according to the following:
i.
Single tenant and building identification signs shall include landscaping that extends out from the base of the sign in all four directions, a distance equal to one-half of the overall height of the sign.
ii.
Multi-tenant identification signs shall include landscaping that extends out from the base of the sign in all four directions, a distance equal to one-half of the overall height of the sign.
iii.
Freeway oriented signs and off-site center identification signs shall include a three hundred square foot landscaped area.
b.
The landscaping for pylon signs shall include shrubs and small trees to hide the lower portion of the pylon sign if visible from public view.
c.
The landscaping for freestanding tenant identification signs, building identification signs, and multitenant identification signs shall include flowering perennials, annual plants, or other plants which provide additional color. They shall be planted and replanted seasonally to maintain year round color.
5.
Addresses. All freestanding signs, except those oriented toward the freeway, shall include the street address(es) or range(s) for the businesses or centers assigned by the building official. The address shall not be counted in the total permitted sign area.
6.
Illumination.
a.
Illumination for tenant or building identification signs may be internal or external.
i.
When internally illuminated signs are used, only the lettering and logos shall appear to be lighted. Conventional channel lettering or reverse channel lettering are acceptable.
ii.
When externally illuminated signs are used, only flood lighting is acceptable if consistent with Riverside County Ordinance 655, the Palomar light pollution ordinance. External illumination shall not be used for multitenant signs.
b.
Illumination for center identification signs may be internal or external:
i.
When internally illuminated, only reverse channel lettering is acceptable. For freeway oriented center identification signs conventional channel lettering is acceptable.
ii.
When externally illuminated signs are used, only flood lighting is acceptable if consistent with the Palomar light pollution ordinance.
7.
Width. The width of sign structure can be calculated by multiplying the proposed sign structure height by the sign width coefficient as provided in Table 17.28.070. In no case shall the width of a sign structure exceed the width calculated by the sign width coefficient.
Table 17.28.070 Sign Width Coefficient | |
|---|---|
Sign Structure in Feet | Sign Width Coefficient |
0-6 | 2.0 |
6.1-12 | 1.0 |
12.1-15 | 0.8 |
15.1-25 | 0.6 |
25.1-40 | 0.4 |
40.1+ | 0.35 |
For instance, if sign structure height is four feet, the applicable sign width coefficient from the above table is 2.0. Therefore, the width of the sign structure shall not exceed eight feet (4 × 2.0).
B.
Standards for Permanent Wall Mounted Signs for Buildings with Two Stories or Less.
1.
Location. Wall signs shall not be located on windows or doors.
2.
Number.
a.
For multitenant buildings, only the major tenant within the suite is permitted to have a wall sign. Subleasing tenants are not permitted to have wall signs.
b.
Maximum of four signs per business shall be allowed including all wall mounted business identification signs, freestanding signs and freeway signs (if any permitted). However, businesses with freestanding freeway signs shall only be permitted a maximum of three signs, or four signs as permitted by Section 17.28.210(A)(1)(a).
3.
Area.
a.
For businesses with more than one permitted wall mounted sign, the second sign shall not exceed eighty percent, third seventy percent, and fourth sixty percent of the maximum allowable for the corresponding frontages. This standard shall not apply to permitted wall mounted freeway oriented signs.
b.
Wall signs shall not extend more than seventy-five percent of the suite length for multi-tenant buildings or building frontage for single tenant buildings.
4.
Letter Height. Minimum letter height shall be eight inches. For wall signs in two lines or more the second line may have a minimum letter height of six inches.
5.
Design.
a.
A diversity of letter types and colors shall be encouraged for wall signs within centers to create interest.
b.
The use of graphics consistent with the nature of the product to be advertised shall be encouraged, i.e., hammer symbol for a hardware store, mortar and pestle for a drug store.
c.
Sign colors shall be selected that provide a significant contrast between the background colors and the letters.
C.
Number. Maximum of four signs per business shall be allowed including all wall mounted, freestanding signs and any freeway signs (if any permitted). However, businesses with freestanding freeway signs shall only be permitted a maximum of three signs, or four signs as permitted by Section 17.28.210(A)(1)(a).
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 06-06 § 6(L); Ord. 07-15 § 9; Ord. 10-07 § 21; Ord. 14-01 § 24; Ord. 2025-12, 8/12/2025)
§ 17.28.080 Sign programs.
A.
Sign Program Required. In addition to the sign permits required by this chapter, certain types of signs and developments require a sign program to ensure that all proposed signs are in harmony with other on-site signs, buildings and surrounding developments. For existing developments without sign programs, the purpose of this provision is to bring centers or buildings without sign programs into conformance with the development code, while allowing existing legal signage to remain until new signage is proposed.
1.
New Sign Program. For new developments (and for approved or existing developments that propose a major modification or propose to replace or construct a new permanent freestanding or wall mounted sign), a new sign program is required only if any of the following circumstances exist:
a.
Whenever a shopping center, neighborhood commercial center, office center, building, or development is greater than one hundred thousand square feet in total building area and has more than a total of four permanent signs counting wall mounted and free standing signs;
b.
Whenever the development contains a historic structure; or
c.
Whenever a proposed permanent sign exceeds or cannot comply with the standards required by this chapter due to unique characteristics of the site or building façade upon which the sign is placed.
2.
Existing Sign Program. All approved sign programs for existing or approved developments shall remain in full force and effect and any revision to an approved sign program shall require a modification planning application.
B.
Findings. The following findings must be made by the approval body prior to approving a sign program:
1.
The proposed signs enhance the development, and are in harmony with, and visually related to:
a.
All of the signs included in the sign program. This shall be accomplished by incorporating several common design elements such as materials, letter style, colors, illumination, sign type or sign shape,
b.
The buildings and/or the developments they identify by utilizing materials, colors or design motifs included in the building being identified, and
c.
Surrounding development by not adversely affecting surrounding land uses or obscuring adjacent approved signs;
2.
The sign program accommodates future revisions which may be required due to changes in building tenants; and
3.
The proposed sign program satisfies the intent of this chapter, in that the sign program complies with all the regulations of this chapter, except that flexibility is allowed with regard to sign area, number, location and height. Further, to the extent the sign program does not comply with the requirements of this chapter as to sign area, number, location and height, the proposed sign program enhances the development and more fully accomplishes the objectives of this chapter.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 06-06 § 5; Ord. 10-07 § 20)
§ 17.28.100 Signs in residential districts.
§ 17.28.110 Signs for institutional uses and other permitted uses in residential districts.
A.
Wall Mounted Business or Institution Identification Signs for Institutional Uses and Other Permitted Uses in Residential Districts Except Single-Family and Multifamily Uses.
1.
Maximum number permitted is one per frontage.
2.
Maximum permitted sign area for each sign is one-half square foot for each lineal foot of building frontage, or fifty square feet, whichever is less.
3.
Illumination may be permitted if it is determined by the director that it does not adversely impact the surrounding residential uses.
B.
Freestanding Business or Institution Identification Signs for Institutional Uses and Other Permitted Uses in Residential Districts.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.120 Neighborhood and community identification signs for subdivisions and multifamily complexes.
A.
Maximum number permitted shall be two per each vehicular access or entrance.
D.
They shall be built into the landscaping or project walls.
E.
They shall be one sided, except when installed in a median or other applications where two-sided signs are more appropriate than one-sided signs.
F.
Sign area is measured by the area surrounding and including the letters.
G.
Sign background shall be of materials used in the subdivision or project.
H.
Illumination shall only be by external flood light, and only when consistent with Riverside County Ordinance 655, Palomar light pollution ordinance, or by internal reverse channel letters.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.130 Subdivision signs.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be one per subdivision if five acres or less, or two per subdivision if more than five acres. If several builders are building on a tract, each builder is entitled to its own subdivision sign(s) located within the property they own, provided that they do not exceed the permitted number of subdivision signs as specified in this chapter.
B.
Shall not exceed one sign per street frontage.
C.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall not exceed one hundred square feet.
D.
Maximum sign structure height shall not exceed twelve feet.
E.
They shall be removed immediately after the final sale.
F.
They shall have a ten-foot setback.
G.
They shall be located within the boundaries of the subdivision.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.200 Signs in commercial districts.
All signs within commercial districts that require a permit must comply with the sign standards for commercial districts contained in Sections 17.28.200 through 17.28.299 and with the standards contained in Section 17.28.070. In lieu of the standards provided in Sections 17.28.200 through 17.28.299, office buildings in commercial districts must comply with the standards for office district contained in Sections 17.28.300 through 17.28.399.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.210 Freeway oriented signs in commercial districts.
Freeway oriented signs are only permitted for parcels or shopping centers with freeway frontage. They are permitted as freestanding or wall mounted signs. Freestanding signs may identify centers, multiple tenants and/or single tenants. Wall mounted signs may identify single tenants occupying an entire building and located on a parcel.
A.
Requirements for Freestanding Freeway Oriented Signs in Commercial Districts.
1.
Number of signs permitted:
a.
One single tenant identification sign per parcel that is occupied entirely by one business, not located in a shopping center shall be permitted. These businesses with a freestanding freeway oriented sign are not permitted a single tenant identification monument sign along their street frontage. However, if three or more parcels join together to erect a multitenant freeway oriented sign, they each shall also be allowed a single-tenant identification monument sign along their street frontage.
b.
One multitenant identification sign per shopping center, if the shopping center is larger than seven acres.
c.
Two multitenant identification signs per shopping center if the center has greater than one thousand three hundred thirty feet of frontage.
3.
Maximum sign structure height shall be thirty feet.
4.
A freestanding freeway oriented sign shall only be allowed as a pylon sign. Pole signs are not permitted.
5.
A maximum of three tenants may be on a multitenant sign.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.220 Requirements for freestanding shopping center identification signs in commercial districts.
Freestanding shopping center identification signs are intended to identify shopping centers. Different standards have been included for shopping centers with seven acres or less and more than seven acres.
A.
Two signs per major entrance shall be permitted and one additional sign shall be permitted at each major intersection.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.230 Freestanding tenant identification signs in commercial districts.
Tenant identification signs are intended to identify tenants whether or not located in shopping centers. These signs may be single-tenant or multitenant identification signs.
A.
Requirements for Multitenant Signs in Commercial Districts. Freestanding multiple-tenant identification signs are intended to identify tenants in centers or multitenant buildings:
1.
Maximum number of freestanding tenant identification signs (multitenant or single-tenant sign) is one per three hundred lineal feet of street frontage for the center. At least half of the tenant identification signs shall be single-tenant identification signs.
2.
Each center shall be allowed at least one multitenant sign. However, if the center has more than one street frontage, one multitenant sign on each street frontage shall be allowed.
3.
Maximum sign structure height shall be twelve feet.
4.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall be one hundred square feet.
5.
The center name may be added to multitenant signs but the total sign area for each sign, including the center name shall not exceed one hundred square feet.
6.
The maximum number of signs per panel shall be two.
7.
The minimum panel height shall be ten inches.
8.
The minimum letter size shall be five inches.
B.
Requirements for Freestanding Building or Single-tenant Identification Signs in Commercial Districts. Freestanding building or business identification signs are intended to identify single-tenants whether or not in a center, or buildings in commercial districts.
1.
Maximum number of freestanding tenant identification signs (multi or single-tenant sign) is one per three hundred lineal feet of street frontage for the center. At least half of the tenant identification signs shall be single-tenant identification signs.
2.
The maximum number of signs for single-tenants not located in a center shall be one sign per tenant.
3.
Theater and gas station signs are counted as single-tenant signs in the formula calculations for determining the maximum number of permitted tenant signs for a center. These signs shall meet all the requirements for single-tenant signs, except for size and height requirements as specified in subsections (B)(4)(a) and (B)(4)(b) of this section.
4.
The maximum area for all single-tenant identification signs or building identification signs shall be twenty-five square feet, except that:
a.
Maximum area for theater signs shall be one hundred fifty square feet, including the area for identification of all the shows and the theater name.
b.
Maximum area for service stations shall be fifty square feet, including the area for all fuel types, prices, and the service station name (for additional signage requirements for service stations refer to Section 17.28.260(A)).
5.
Maximum sign structure height for all single-tenant signs and gas station signs shall be six feet, except theaters which shall be fifteen feet.
6.
Not more than one tenant shall be identified.
7.
If the frontage of a center is less than three hundred feet, no single-tenant identification is permitted.
8.
Automotive service stations shall be allowed one price sign per frontage to include all fuel types and/or prices.
C.
Requirements for Freestanding Tenant Identification Signs at Automobile and Truck Dealerships. Free-standing tenant identification signs are intended to identify automobile and truck dealerships in commercial districts and shall comply with the following provisions. For purposes of this subsection, a "dealership site" means an automobile sales business on one or more contiguous legal of land, selling one or more brand names under the management of a single business name:
1.
The maximum number of freestanding tenant identification signs (multi or single-tenant sign) is one per street frontage. A reasonable separation distance between multiple signs shall be as determined by the director of planning at the time of approval.
2.
The maximum area for freestanding tenant identification signs or building identification signs shall be seventy-two square feet (including the area for all makes of vehicles and the dealership name).
3.
The maximum sign structure height for all freestanding tenant identification signs shall be eight feet.
4.
The maximum sign structures width for all freestanding tenant identification signs shall be twelve feet.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 05-06 § 8; Ord. 06-06 § 6(M))
§ 17.28.240 Requirements for wall mounted business or building identification signs for buildings with two stories or less in commercial districts.
Wall mounted business identification signs are intended to provide identification for the individual businesses located in buildings with two stories or less in commercial districts.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be one per frontage for each tenant.
B.
Maximum area of signs shall also not exceed one square foot of sign area per linear foot of business frontage.
C.
Building identification signs are only permitted if no tenant identification signs are placed on the building.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 10-07 § 22; Ord. 14-01 § 25)
§ 17.28.250 Wall mounted signs for buildings with three stories or more in commercial districts.
A.
Requirements for Wall Mounted Primary Tenant or Building Identification Signs for Buildings With Three Stories or More in Commercial Districts. Wall mounted building identification signs are intended to provide identification for buildings with three stories or more. This type of signage is usually used by the primary tenant in an office building.
1.
General Requirements.
a.
Maximum number of signs shall be two per building.
b.
Maximum letter height and sign area shall be determined by subsection C of this section, size requirements.
c.
The two permitted signs shall be placed on different building elevations.
d.
Both signs shall have the same copy, and only a single line of copy.
e.
The elevation plans for the development plan shall show the locations and dimensions of the signs.
2.
Design Requirements.
a.
They shall complement and add to the aesthetics of the materials of the building.
b.
They may be illuminated. However, in order to reduce the visual impact of illuminated signs on surrounding residential districts, lighting of signs to produce a silhouette effect is encouraged. Signs internally illuminated are preferred over exterior illumination.
c.
To avoid the appearance of crowding a sign into a sign placement area, the sign copy shall:
3.
Location Requirements.
B.
Requirements for Wall Mounted Secondary Tenant Business Identification Signs for Buildings With Three Stories or More in Commercial Districts. Wall mounted secondary tenant business identification signs are intended to provide identification for the secondary tenants in office buildings with three stories or more.
1.
2.
Location Requirements.
a.
They shall be located below the second floor, except that if the building has a two-story lobby, the signs are permitted only between the second and third floors above such lobby.
b.
They shall be located at or adjacent to the entrance of the building or in a position to be seen by pedestrians and by those in nearby parking areas and on-site circulation drives.
C.
Size Requirements.
1.
The recommended sign area, maximum letter and symbol height for primary tenant or building identification signs for buildings three stories or higher is summarized in Table 17.28.250A.
Table 17.28.250A Sign Area—Maximum Letter and Symbol Height for Building Identification Signs for Primary Tenants or Building Identification Signs for Buildings Three Stories or Higher | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Number of Building Stories | Maximum Letter Height | Maximum Symbol Height | Square Footage Area of Sign Per Elevation |
3 | 2′10″ | 4′6″ | 175 |
4 | 3′0″ | 4′10″ | 200 |
5 | 3′4″ | 5′4″ | 225 |
6 | 3′9″ | 6′0″ | 250 |
7+ | 4′2″ | 6′8″ | 275 |
2.
Recommended sign area, maximum letter, and symbol height for secondary tenant signs for buildings three stories or higher is summarized in Table 17.28.250B.
Table 17.28.250B Sign Area—Maximum Letter and Symbol Height for Secondary Tenant Signs for Buildings Three Stories or Higher | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Number of Building Stories | Maximum Letter Height | Maximum Symbol Height | Square Footage Area of Sign Per Elevation |
3—4 | 10″ | 16″ | 30 |
5—6 | 12″ | 19″ | 35 |
7+ | 14″ | 22″ | 40 |
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.260 Requirements for special signs in commercial districts.
C.
Institutional Uses.
1.
Maximum number of signs shall be one freestanding or one wall sign per street frontage.
2.
The standards for freestanding single tenant and wall mounted business identification signs in Sections 17.28.230(B) and 17.28.240, respectively shall be followed.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.265 Requirements for projecting signs in commercial districts.
Projecting signs are an alternative form of signage for identification of businesses. They are only permitted for a shopping center if uniformly used in the shopping center and if approved through a sign program.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be one per tenant.
B.
Maximum area of signs shall be four square feet.
C.
Minimum distance between projecting signs shall be twenty feet.
D.
Ground clearance shall be a minimum of eight feet.
E.
Projection shall be a maximum of four feet and shall not encroach into the public right-of-way.
F.
Must be attached to a permanent canopy or building.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.270 Requirements for under canopy signs in commercial districts.
Under canopy signs are primarily pedestrian oriented and provide additional identification for businesses in commercial centers.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be one per customer entrance.
B.
Maximum area of signs shall be four square feet.
C.
Ground clearance shall be a minimum of eight feet.
D.
Must be attached to a permanent canopy or building.
E.
They shall be illuminated only with the lighting from the canopy.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.275 Requirements for awning signs in commercial districts.
Awning signs are intended to provide identification to individual businesses, and can be pedestrian or auto-mobile oriented. They are only permitted for a shopping center if uniformly used in the shopping center or for a single tenant if the tenant is occupying an entire site and is not located in a shopping center.
A.
The area of the sign shall not exceed seventy-five percent of the area of the awning that the sign is placed on.
B.
Ground clearance shall be a minimum of eight feet.
C.
The total area of signage permitted for the face of the building shall not be exceeded for the combination of the wall sign(s) and awning(s).
D.
The area of the sign on awnings is calculated by multiplying the height of the highest letter by the length of the lettering on the awning.
E.
Awning signs shall be located on the bottom twelve inches of the flap (valance) or on end panels of angled, curved or box awnings.
F.
Letter height shall not exceed eight inches.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.280 On-site directional and directory signs in commercial districts.
The purpose of directory and directional signs are to guide the movement of vehicles and pedestrians once they are on the site or center. They are not intended to advertise the tenants or products.
A.
Requirements for Pedestrian On-Site Directory Signs in Commercial Districts. On-site directory signs are intended to provide information to the patrons of a building once they have arrived near the entrance of the building.
1.
Maximum number of signs shall be one per multitenant building per frontage.
2.
Maximum area of each sign shall be three square feet.
3.
Maximum height of sign shall be seven feet, if freestanding.
4.
They shall be located in pedestrian activity and movement areas.
5.
They shall contain only the name and address of the activities/businesses on-site.
6.
They may be illuminated.
B.
Requirements for Freestanding On-Site Directional Signs for Individual Sites in Commercial Districts. These signs are intended to provide direction to automobiles once they have arrived at the site.
1.
Maximum area of sign shall be three square feet.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall be three feet.
3.
They shall only include letters, logos and arrows. Logos shall not exceed twenty-five percent of the overall sign area.
4.
They shall be screened from view from the public right-of-way and private driveways of a center where practical.
5.
They shall only be visible from the site they are intended to identify.
6.
They may be illuminated.
C.
Requirements for Freestanding On-Site Directional Signs for Centers in Commercial Districts. These signs are intended to provide directions to automobiles to the different businesses on the site.
1.
Maximum area of sign shall be thirty square feet.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall be seven feet.
3.
They shall only include letters, logos and arrows. Logos shall not exceed twenty-five percent of the overall sign area.
4.
They shall be screened from view from the public right-of-way and private driveways of a center where practical.
5.
They shall only be visible from the site they are intended to identify.
6.
They may be illuminated.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 02-11 § 3(H); Ord. 07-15 § 8)
§ 17.28.300 Signs in professional office district.
All signs within the professional office district must comply with the standards for set forth in Sections 17.28.300 through 17.28.399, as well as with the standards contained in Section 17.28.070. In lieu of the standards provided in Sections 17.28.300 through 17.28.399, wall mounted business identification signs for retail uses on the first floor of an office building with exterior entrances shall comply with the standards for commercial districts contained in Section 17.28.240. If retail uses have interior entrances only, no wall mounted business identification signs are permitted.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.310 Sign types prohibited in professional office district.
§ 17.28.320 Sign types permitted in the professional office district with the same standards as commercial district.
§ 17.28.325 Freeway oriented signs in professional office district.
Only travel oriented commercial uses such as gas stations, restaurants, fast food establishments and hotels/motels with freeway frontage are permitted to have freeway oriented signs. Freeway oriented signs are permitted as freestanding and wall mounted signs. Freestanding signs may identify centers, multiple tenants, and/or single tenants. The provisions included in Section 17.28.210 shall apply to all signs permitted by this section.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 10-07 § 23)
§ 17.28.330 Requirements for freestanding office center identification signs in professional office district.
Freestanding office center identification signs are intended to identify office centers.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be two per major entrance, plus one additional at each major intersection.
B.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall be thirty square feet.
C.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.340 Requirements for freestanding building or single tenant identification signs for single tenant office buildings in professional office district.
Freestanding single tenant identification signs are intended to provide identification for the tenant occupying an entire office building. In multitenant office buildings, a freestanding building identification sign is permitted to identify the building.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be one per street frontage, plus one additional per major intersection.
B.
Maximum signs area shall be twenty square feet.
C.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet.
D.
No more than one tenant shall be identified.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.350 Requirements for wall mounted business or building identification signs for single and multitenant buildings with two stories or less in professional office district.
Wall mounted business identification signs are intended to provide identification for individual businesses in single or multitenant office buildings with two stories or less. However, only multitenant buildings with exterior entrances for their tenants are permitted to have wall mounted business identification signs.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be one sign per frontage for each tenant.
B.
Maximum area of signs shall not exceed one-half square foot per linear foot of business frontage.
C.
For multitenant buildings wall mounted business identification signs shall be permitted only if the main entrance to each suite is from the exterior of the building as opposed to a lobby or courtyard design.
D.
Building identification signs are only permitted if no tenant identifications are placed.
E.
External illumination is not permitted.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 08-08 § 20; Ord. 14-01 § 26)
§ 17.28.400 Signs in industrial districts.
All signs within industrial districts must comply with the standards for industrial districts contained in Sections 17.28.400 through 17.28.499, and with the standards contained in Section 17.28.070. In lieu of the standards provided in Sections 17.28.400 through 17.28.499, office buildings must comply with the standards for office district contained in Section 17.28.300 through 17.28.399.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.410 Sign types prohibited in industrial districts.
§ 17.28.420 Sign types permitted in industrial districts.
In addition to the signs otherwise permitted by this chapter for industrial districts, the following sign types are permitted in these districts provided that they meet the following specified standards:
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.430 Requirements for freestanding business center identification signs in industrial districts.
Freestanding business center identification signs are intended to identify business centers.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be two per major entrance, plus one additional per major intersection.
B.
Maximum signs area shall be thirty square feet.
C.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.440 Freestanding tenant identification signs in industrial districts.
Tenant identification signs are intended to identify tenants whether or not located in shopping centers. These signs may be single tenant or multitenant identification signs. However, these two types of signs are not permitted together at any time.
A.
Requirements for Freestanding Tenant or Building Identification Signs in Industrial Districts. Freestanding business or building identification signs are intended to provide identification for a tenant occupying an entire industrial building. They are also used to identify a multitenant industrial building.
B.
Requirements for Freestanding Multiple Tenant Identification Signs in Industrial Districts.
1.
Each center shall be allowed one multitenant sign. However, if the center has more than one street frontage, one multitenant sign per street frontage shall be allowed.
2.
Maximum sign structure height shall be six feet.
3.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall be twenty square feet.
4.
The center name may be added to multitenant signs but the total sign area for each sign including the center name shall not exceed twenty square feet.
5.
The maximum number of signs per panel shall be one.
6.
The minimum panel width shall be five inches.
7.
The minimum letter size shall be three inches.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.450 Requirements for wall mounted business or building identification signs for buildings with two stories or less in industrial districts.
Wall mounted business or building identification signs are intended to provide identification for individual businesses in single-tenant or multitenant industrial buildings.
A.
Maximum number of signs shall be one per frontage for each tenant.
B.
Maximum sign area for each sign shall not exceed one-half square foot per lineal foot of business frontage.
C.
Building identification signs are only permitted if no tenant identifications are permitted by this chapter.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 14-01 § 27)
§ 17.28.600 Temporary business advertising signs in commercial, office and industrial districts.
A.
Findings.
1.
That there is a need to improve the competitiveness of service and commercial businesses and maintain the aesthetic quality of all areas in the city; and
2.
That regulating temporary signage is an effective method to improve the aesthetic quality of all areas in the city; and
3.
That the overuse of temporary signs results in visual clutter, the deterioration of the city's commercial and service districts, and the inefficient use of business advertising resources.
B.
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to set standards for temporary business advertising signs in commercial, professional office and industrial districts in the city. Temporary business advertising signs include promotional signs, grand opening signs, interim signs, special event signs, and other signs made up of temporary materials or used in a temporary fashion.
C.
Promotional Signs in Commercial, Office and Industrial Districts. Promotional signs are temporary business advertising signs intended to attract attention to a use or activity for a limited number of events as identified in this section. The three types of promotional signs include attached, detached and window signs. Attached promotional signs, detached promotional signs and promotional window signs that require a permit may not be used in combination during any quarter.
1.
Attached Promotional Signs.
a.
For each use or business activity up to one sign may be allowed. Except for a use or business activity with frontage on two or more major streets two signs may be allowed.
b.
Maximum area shall be one hundred square feet.
c.
The vertical dimension of the sign shall not exceed five feet and shall not exceed the top of the eave line or parapet wall.
d.
The width (horizontal dimension) shall not exceed sixty percent of the business or store frontage, whichever is smaller.
e.
The maximum duration for attached promotional signs during the first through third quarters (January through September) of the year is one thirty-day period per quarter, with a consecutive sixty-day down period, during which time promotional signs are not permitted. During the fourth quarter (October through December) promotional signs are permitted for two thirty-day periods provided that the temporary sign is down for at least thirty days before the temporary signage is used again.
f.
All promotional signs shall be located on the site where the use or activity is located.
2.
Detached Promotional Signs.
a.
Detached signs shall be located on the site where the use or business activity is located. No more than one detached promotional sign may be allowed at the same time per lot. If two or more lots are owned by the same property owner within the same shopping or business center, then no more than one detached sign may be allowed at the same time per property owner per center.
b.
One additional sign may be permitted per major street frontage per lot or center, provided it is a community event sponsored by the city or by a nonprofit organization as described in subsection (F) of this section.
c.
At no time shall the distance between detached promotional signs be less than thirty feet.
d.
The planning director shall have the authority to increase or reduce the requirements in subsection (C)(2)(a), (b) or (c) of this section in case of unusual physical characteristics of the site, such as presence of driveways, landscaping, utility poles, lot configuration, etc.
e.
Sign shall be mounted to a frame between one and four inches thick that contours the top, bottom and sides of the sign. The frame shall be constructed of quality durable materials and shall be constructed so that the sign shall be securely fastened to the frame.
f.
If more than one detached promotional sign is located on the same lot, each sign shall be made to the same dimensions and mounted to a frame between one and four inches thick (that contours along the top, bottom and sides of the sign) and the frame shall be constructed of the same color, material and design to provide consistency between promotional signs.
g.
Maximum sign area shall not exceed thirty-two square feet.
h.
The maximum height to the top of the sign shall not exceed six feet above the ground.
i.
The vertical dimension of the sign area shall not exceed three feet, and the horizontal dimension of the sign area shall not exceed fifteen feet.
j.
Sign shall not block, restrict or impair any of the following:
k.
The maximum duration for detached promotional signs is fourteen consecutive days within any ninety day period.
D.
Grand Opening Signs in Commercial, Office and Industrial Districts. Grand opening signs are temporary business advertising signs, bearing the words "Grand Opening," or some similar message to announce the opening of a new business.
1.
For each use or business activity up to one sign may be allowed. Except for a use or business activity with frontage on two or more major streets two signs may be allowed.
2.
Maximum area shall not exceed sixty square feet.
3.
The vertical dimension shall not exceed three feet. They shall not exceed the top of the eave line or parapet wall.
4.
They shall be attached to the building where the use or activity is located.
5.
The width (horizontal dimension) shall not exceed sixty percent of the business or store frontage, whichever is smaller.
6.
They may be allowed for any period of time during the first one hundred twenty days of business or multifamily rental complex operation.
E.
Interim Signs. Interim signs are temporary business advertising signs intended to provide interim signage while the permanent signage is being fabricated, repaired or prepared for installation.
1.
The maximum number of signs shall be the same number of permanent signs permitted by this chapter.
2.
They shall be the same as the size of permanent signs permitted by this chapter.
3.
They may contain only the business name and appropriate logo. They shall be attached to the building where the use or activity is located.
4.
They may be allowed for any period up to ninety days. The director may allow a one-time extension, for any period up to thirty days, with good cause. It is the responsibility for the proponent of the extension to justify why the extension is appropriate.
F.
Special Event Signs in Commercial, Office and Industrial Districts. Special event signs are temporary business advertising signs for special community activities or seasonal events. By way of example only, such activities or events may include charitable and community fundraising events, Christmas tree sales, the tractor races, or the annual Temecula wine and balloon festival. In addition to the on-site signs permitted by this section, community events sponsored by the city or by a nonprofit organization may be allowed one off-site sign. Two types of special event signs include attached and detached special event signs.
1.
Attached Special Event Signs in Commercial, Office and Industrial Districts. Special event signs for events held in a building or structure shall be attached to the building or structure where the use or activity is located.
a.
The maximum area shall not exceed thirty-two square feet.
b.
The vertical dimension shall not exceed three feet. They shall not exceed the top of the eave line or parapet wall of the building.
c.
They shall be located on the site of the special event or activity being advertised.
d.
The width (horizontal dimension) shall not exceed sixty percent of the business or store frontage, whichever is smaller.
e.
Special event signs may be allowed for any period up to forty-five days. The director may allow a one-time extension, for any period up to an additional forty-five days, with good cause. It is the responsibility of the proponent of the extension to justify why the extension is appropriate.
2.
Detached Special Event Signs in Commercial, Office and Industrial districts.
a.
Detached special event signs shall comply with subsection (C)(2).
b.
Special event signs may be allowed for up to fourteen consecutive days within any ninety-day period.
c.
Special event signs for special community-wide events, such as the tractor races and wine and balloon festival, may be allowed additional supplemental and/or directional temporary signage at the discretion of the director. Supplemental directional signage should not exceed thirty-two square feet on major roadways and twenty-four square feet on other roadways. The appropriate sizes and locations for all supplemental and/or directional temporary signs shall be determined by the director.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 01-14 § 1; Ord. 07-15 § 14(B); Ord. 08-08 § 10)
§ 17.28.700 Requirements for temporary ambient air balloons in commercial, office and industrial districts.
A temporary ambient balloon is a sign which is a temporary structure supported by forced cold air (non-helium), constructed of fabric materials, and affixed to the ground or roof top using steel cable anchoring systems. These signs are intended to provide additional exposure to the businesses in the city provided certain restrictions are met.
A.
The maximum number of balloons shall not exceed three on any one site during any time period specified in subsection (A)(1)(b) of this section.
1.
A site shall be defined as the following:
B.
The maximum display time shall not exceed a total of fifteen calendar days within any ninety calendar day period. Except that during the month of the annual Balloon and Wine Festival and during the month of December, a thirty calendar day permit may be issued by the director.
C.
Spacing shall be a minimum of three hundred fifty feet between the balloons.
D.
The requirements for maximum allowable three signs on any one site and minimum three hundred fifty foot spacing between balloons may be waived by the director during the month of the Temecula annual balloon and wine festival, if such event is held.
E.
The maximum cross section of the balloon shall not exceed one thousand five hundred square feet.
F.
The maximum height shall not exceed thirty feet, as measured from the point of anchor to the highest portion of the balloon.
G.
They may be illuminated at night using electrical lighting systems.
H.
Balloons shall be ground-mounted or roof-mounted using steel cable anchoring systems.
I.
Ambient air balloons shall only be in the shape of a traditional "hot air balloon." Ambient air balloons in the shape of blimps or cartoon characters are not permitted. Exception: During the month of December ambient air balloons in the shape of traditional Christmas characters or symbols are allowed.
J.
All such signs shall be removed no later than the last day permitted in the approved application.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1; Ord. 03-04 § 6)
§ 17.28.800 Kiosk signs in all districts.
A.
Findings.
1.
There is an unsightly and confusing proliferation of off-site directional signs, relating to new residential development projects, including new rental projects (hereinafter referred to as "development projects"), and other business. Development projects by their very nature are most frequently located in areas where streets and highways are newly constructed. Such thoroughfares are seldom shown on maps available to persons seeking to purchase new homes; and, consequently, developers use signs to aid such persons in locating their subdivisions. The result is a proliferation of signs which are: (1) unsightly and damaging to the appearance of areas such as that which is the subject of this chapter; (2) confusing to individuals; and, (3) unsafe in that drivers of motor vehicles while searching for subdivisions or signs giving direction thereto, are distracted from the operation of their vehicles.
2.
Directional signs are needed by developers to a greater degree than other businesses because development project sales are ordinarily conducted for a relatively limited period of time for any particular location, that is, only until all units in the subdivision are sold. Thus, listings in such conventional media as telephone yellow pages are impractical. While other media such as broadcast media and newspapers are available, and maps could be disseminated in only some of such media, the most efficient method of directing prospective purchasers to development projects is the use of directional signs posted at intersections and other critical locations. Businesses with more permanent sales locations do not share these problems and, thus, have less need of directional signs.
B.
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide a uniform, coordinated method of offering developers a means of providing directional signs to their projects, while minimizing confusion among prospective purchasers who wish to inspect development projects, while promoting traffic safety and reducing the visual blight of the proliferation of signs. Directional kiosk signs, including travel direction signs, other than those on-site, are prohibited except as provided in this section.
D.
Authority to Grant License. The city council may, by duly executed license agreement, grant to a qualified person the exclusive right to design, erect and maintain directional kiosk signs within the entire city, or any designated portion thereof. Licensees shall be selected by soliciting request for proposals. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any person erecting or placing directional kiosk signs on-site shall not be required to obtain a license. The term of each license shall be set forth in the license agreement.
E.
Directional Signs Structures—Operation. Licensee(s) shall make directional sign panels available to all persons or entities selling subdivisions (hereinafter referred to as "subdivider") on a first-come, first-service basis. No sign panels shall be granted to any subdivider for a period of excess of two years. However, a subdivider who is soliciting sales of more than two subdivisions within a single planned community or a specific plan area shall not be subject to the two-year limitation during such solicitation. Licensee(s) shall maintain a separate waiting list for each sign structure. Alternatively, a subdivider may apply to licensee for a sign panel program consisting of a single sign panel on each of a series of sign structures as needed to guide prospective purchasers to his/her subdivision project. A subdivider whose time of use for a sign panel or sign space program has expired, may reapply and shall be placed on the waiting list in the same manner as a new applicant.
F.
General Requirements.
1.
For purposes of this section, street intersection shall mean where two or more streets or roads cross at the same grade. Street or road shall include all streets and roads with a right-of-way of eighty-eight feet or larger.
2.
Maximum height shall not exceed twelve feet.
3.
Directional signs shall not obstruct the use of sidewalks, walkways, bike and hiking trails; shall not obstruct the visibility of vehicles, pedestrians or traffic control signs; shall, where feasible, be combined with advance street name signs; shall not be installed in the immediate vicinity of street intersection; and shall be limited to not more than three structures between street intersections.
4.
Directional signs shall not be placed on local residential streets.
5.
Sign structures shall be ladder type with individual sign panels of uniform design and color through-out the city limits.
6.
The width of sign structures and sign panels shall not exceed five feet.
7.
Sign panels shall not be illuminated.
8.
Sign structure installations shall include "breakaway" design features where required in right-of-way areas.
9.
No signs, pennants, flags or other devices for visual attention or other appurtenances shall be placed on the directional signs.
10.
The sign panel lettering for tract identification shall be uniform.
11.
All signs erected on private property must have written consent from the property owner with the city to have a right to enter property to remove any signs not in conformance.
12.
All signs within the public right-of-way must have an encroachment permit.
13.
The licensee or holder of an encroachment permit shall hold the city, and its officers and employees, harmless of all costs, claims and damages levied against them, and the license or encroachment permit shall so provide.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.900 Enforcement, legal procedures and penalties.
The following signs are declared a public nuisance, subject to abatement pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 8.12 of this code:
A.
Declaration of Public Nuisance.
1.
Any sign that is erected or installed in violation of this chapter, after the effective date of the ordinance adopting this chapter;
B.
Removal.
1.
Removal Without Notice of Signs Within the Right-of-Way. All signs in the public right-of-way may be removed by the city without issuing a notice of violation.
2.
Emergency Removal. Where the building official determines that the sign in question poses an imminent safety hazard or dangerous condition, such sign may be removed immediately and stored by the city.
3.
Removal of Temporary Signs. Any temporary sign erected, placed or maintained in violation of any provisions of this section may be removed by the city five days after issuance of a notice of violation to the person or party who caused the sign to be erected, if known, and to the owner, lessee or person in lawful possession of the property on which the sign is located.
4.
The owners of signs removed pursuant to subsections (B)(1), (B)(2) or (B)(3) of this section shall be liable to the city for all costs and expenses incurred by the city in removing and storing the signs, in accordance with the provisions and procedures of Section 8.12.140 of this code. As soon as practicable following removal pursuant to this subsection B of this Section but in no case later than forty-eight hours after removal, a notice of violation shall be sent to the owner of the sign(s) via regular mail. The sign(s) will be returned to the owner only upon payment of removal and storage costs pursuant to Section 8.12.140. If the sign(s) is not claimed within thirty days after the receipt of notice of violation the sign(s) may be destroyed.
C.
Unauthorized Removal of Signs. No person shall remove, destroy, relocate, or otherwise disturb any sign without the permission of the party who caused the sign to be erected. Nothing in this subsection shall prohibit the owner of a piece of property, or his or her authorized representative, from removing a sign from his or her property that was erected without his or her consent. Nothing in this subsection shall prevent the building official from taking action to abate sign violations pursuant to the provisions of this code.
D.
Abandoned Signs. Signs shall be considered abandoned and subject to abatement pursuant to Chapter 8.12 under any of the following circumstances:
1.
A sign other than off-premises sign, which for a period of ninety days, no longer advertises or identifies an ongoing business, product or service available on the premises where the sign is located.
2.
Where a sign permit for a temporary sign has expired and the sign has not been removed within one day after the date of expiration.
3.
Where the sign concerns a specific event and five days have elapsed since the occurrence of the event.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.910 Maintenance responsibility of signs.
A.
All signs shall be kept in good condition, be legible, adequately repaired, maintained and painted by the owner thereof at all times. The standard for adequate repairs is that the repairs shall be at least equal in quality and design to the original work such as the paint, finish, materials, landscaping, illumination, structure and any required surrounding landscaping.
B.
Signs not properly maintained shall be issued a notice to maintain, alter or repair by the building official. Upon a written notice from the building official, the maintenance, alterations or repairs specified in the notice shall be made within thirty calendar days after the date of receipt of such notice.
C.
Appropriate easements for access and maintenance shall be secured for centers that contain more than one parcel and include center identification signs, multitenant signs, single tenant identification signs, et cetera.
D.
CC&Rs or other acceptable maintenance mechanisms shall be established for centers with center identification signs, multitenant signs, single tenant identification signs, et cetera, in order to identify the responsible party for appropriate maintenance of the signs in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)
§ 17.28.920 Nonconforming signs.
A.
Continued Use of Nonconforming Signs. A nonconforming sign, if legal at the time of installation, may continue to be used and must be properly maintained in accordance with Section 17.28.910. With the exception of the auto mall center identification sign, nonconforming signs may not be:
1.
Changed to another nonconforming sign. For the purpose of this section, changing the tenant signs on a freestanding multitenant identification sign is not considered a change to another nonconforming sign.
2.
Improved or structurally altered so as to extend its useful life.
3.
Expanded.
4.
Reestablished after discontinuance for ninety days or more.
5.
Reestablished after damage or destruction of more than fifty percent of its value.
6.
Moved or relocated.
(Ord. 98-10 § 1)