Temple City City Zoning Code

ARTICLE Q. RESERVED

ARTICLE R. RESERVED

9-1A-1: TITLE AND AUTHORITY:

9-1A-2: PURPOSE:

9-1A-3: APPLICABILITY OF THE ZONING CODE:

9-1A-4: MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

9-1A-5: CONFLICTING PROVISIONS OR REGULATIONS:

9-1A-6: REFERENCE TO OTHER LAWS:

9-1A-7: EFFECT OF PRIOR PERMITS:

9-1A-8: VIOLATIONS CONTINUE:

9-1A-9: PENDING PROCEEDINGS:

9-1A-10: INTERPRETATION:

9-1A-11: TIMING:

9-1A-12: DEFINITIONS:

For the purpose of carrying out the purpose of this zoning code the words, phrases and terms included herein will be deemed to have the meanings ascribed to them as follows:

 

ABUTTING/ADJOINING:	Contiguous to. Having district boundaries or lot lines in common (i.e., not separated by an alley, public or private right-of-way, or street). See also "Adjacent."
ACCESS:	The place, or way, by which pedestrians and/or vehicles will have safe, adequate and usable ingress and egress to a property.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT:	A residential dwelling unit that may be attached to the main dwelling, located within the living area of the main dwelling, or detached from the main dwelling, which provides complete independent living facilities for one (1) or more persons. It will include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation, and be located on the same parcel as a single-family dwelling.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT, ATTACHED:	An accessory dwelling unit that shares at least one common wall with the primary dwelling and is not fully contained within the existing space of the primary dwelling or an accessory structure.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT, DETACHED:	An accessory dwelling unit that does not share a common wall or common roof with the primary dwelling on a single-family lot or primary dwellings on a multi-family lot and is not fully contained within the existing space of an accessory structure.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT, INTERNAL:	An accessory dwelling unit that is fully contained within the existing space of the primary dwelling or an accessory structure.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT, JUNIOR:	A unit that is no more than five hundred (500) square feet in size and contained entirely within a single- family residence, or a proposed single-family residence. A junior accessory dwelling unit may include an efficiency kitchen that is of reasonable size in relation to the size of the junior accessory dwelling unit. Such units may not be sold separately from the primary residence. The property having a junior accessory dwelling unit must require owner-occupancy.
ACCESSORY USE:	A use customarily incidental, related and clearly subordinate, to a permitted principal use.
ADJACENT:	The condition of being near to or close to but not necessarily having a common dividing line. Two (2) properties that are separated by an alley, public or private right-of-way, street (other than a principal arterial), public access easement, or creek, river, stream, or other natural or artificial waterway will be considered as adjoining one another. See also "Abutting/Adjoining."
ADMINISTRATIVE MODIFICATIONS:	A process and permit required for certain identified minor deviations from the provisions of this code.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEFINITIONS:	The following indented terms and phrases are defined for the purposes of section 9-1C-6 of this chapter relating to density bonuses:
Concessions Or Other Incentives:	Concessions or other incentives include a reduction in a site development standard or modification of another Zoning Code requirement or design standard, but not including Building Code requirements or other health and safety standards, that results in an identifiable, financially sufficient, and actual cost reduction; or, approval of mixed use zoning in conjunction with the housing project if commercial, office, industrial, or other land uses will reduce the cost of the housing development and if the commercial, office, industrial, or other land uses are compatible with the housing project and the existing or planned development in the area where the proposed housing project will be located; or other concession or regulatory incentive that results in an identifiable, financially sufficient, and actual cost reduction, as determined by the city in its sole discretion. A concession or other incentive does not include additional density beyond that allowed in section 9-1C-6 of this chapter relating to density bonuses.
Density Bonus:	An increase in density above the otherwise maximum allowable residential density under this title and the land use element of the general plan as of the date the development application for the project is deemed complete. The amount of the density bonus to which the applicant is entitled will vary according to the amount by which the percentage of affordable dwelling units meets the percentage established in sections 9-1C-6-L of this chapter. When calculating the number of density bonus units allowed, any fraction of a residential unit will be counted as a whole unit. An applicant may elect to accept a lesser percentage of density bonus units. An applicant may not seek a density bonus greater than that provided in sections 9-1C-6-L of this chapter relating to density bonuses, or by state law.
Developer:	Any association, corporation, firm, joint venture, partnership, person, or any entity or combination of entities, which seeks city approval for all or part of a residential development project.
Development Standard:	For sections 9-1C-6-L of this chapter relating to density bonuses, a development standard includes a site or construction condition that applies to a residential development pursuant to any ordinance, General Plan element, specific plan, charter amendment, or other local condition, law, policy, resolution, or regulation. A development standard subject to waiver does not include additional density beyond that allowed in sections 9-1C-6-L of this chapter relating to density bonuses.
Low Income Households:	Households whose gross income does not exceed eighty percent (80%) of the median income for Los Angeles County as determined annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Moderate Income Households:	Households whose gross income does not exceed one hundred twenty percent (120%) of the median income for Los Angeles County as determined annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Very-Low Income Households:	Households whose gross income is equal to fifty percent (50%) or less of the median income for Los Angeles County as determined annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
ALCOHOL SALES, OFF-SITE:	Off-site Consumption: Any establishment in which alcoholic beverages are sold, served, or given away for consumption off the premises and which is applying for or has obtained any State ABC Licenses for all on-site consumption. References to the establishment will include any immediately adjacent area that is owned, leased, or rented, or controlled by the licensee.
ALCOHOL SALES, ON-SITE:	Any establishment in which alcoholic beverages are sold, served, or given away for consumption on the premises and which is applying for or has obtained any State ABC Licenses for on-site consumption. References to the establishment will include any immediately adjacent area that is owned, leased, or rented, or controlled by the licensee.
ALLEY:	A public or private way, other than a street or highway, permanently reserved as a means of vehicular access to adjoining properties. This does not include flag lots, tiered lots, and easements.
ARCADE (ELECTRONIC GAME CENTER):	An establishment that provides more than four (4) amusement devices, whether or not the devices constitute the primary use or an accessory or incidental use of the premises. Amusement devices mean an electronic or mechanical equipment, game, or machine that is played or used for amusement, which, when so played or used involves skill and which is activated by coin, key, or token, or for which the player or user pays money for the privilege of playing or using. This use may also include internet/cyber cafes, where three (3) or more computers and/or other electronic devices, for access to that system commonly referred to as the "internet," e-mail, playing video games over the Internet or other network system, and/or access to other computer software programs, is provided to the public for compensation and/or for public access. Internet café is also synonymous with PC café, cyber café, internet gaming center, computer/internet rental and cyber centers.
APARTMENT:	The same as the definition of “dwelling, multiple.”
APPURTENANCE:	A tower, spire, cupola, chimney, penthouse, water tank, flagpole, theater scenery loft, radio or television antenna, transmission tower, fire equipment, or other similar structure that is attached to a structure and not intended for human occupancy.
ARTERIAL STREET:	A major thoroughfare or primary roadway, used primarily for through traffic rather than for access to abutting land, that is characterized by high vehicular capacity and continuity of movement. The street is either divided or undivided and its main function is to carry nonlocal traffic at medium speeds.
ASSESSOR:	The Los Angeles County Assessor.
ASSEMBLY/MEETING FACILITIES, PUBLIC OR PRIVATE:	A facility for public or private assembly and meetings, exclusive of Religious Assembly, which is defined separately.
ASSEMBLY, RELIGIOUS:	Any facility specifically designed and used to accommodate the gathering of persons for the purposes of fellowship, worship, or similar conduct of religious practices and activities. This definition includes functionally related internal facilities (i.e., kitchens, multi-purpose rooms, storage, etc.) and residences for clergy. Associated uses (i.e., day care centers or full-time or part-time schools) may be allowed as incidental uses to the primary use.
ATTIC:	The area located between the top plate and the roof or ridge of a building.
AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINES (ATM):	A pedestrian-oriented machine used by bank and financial service patrons for conducting transactions including deposits, fund transfers, and withdrawals without contact with financial institution personnel. The machines may be located at or within a bank, or in other locations.
BAR OR TAVERN:	An establishment used primarily for the on premises sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages including establishments where food is sold and/or entertainment provided as incidental thereto.
BASEMENT:	That portion of a building which is totally or partly below finished grade of the lot upon which it is located.
BEDROOM:	Any space in a dwelling unit or accessory structure which is seventy (70) square feet or greater in size and which is located along an exterior wall, but not including the following: hall; bathroom; kitchen; living room (maximum of one (1) per dwelling unit); dining room (in proximity to kitchen, maximum of one (1) per dwelling unit); family room (maximum of one (1) per dwelling unit), laundry room, closet/dressing room opening off of a bedroom.
BERM:	A raised earthen area.
BIOSWALES:	Landscape elements designed to remove silt and pollution from surface runoff water. A bioswale consists of a depressed drainage course with gently sloped sides and filled with vegetation, compost, and/or riprap, and designed to let water flow slowly. Bioswales are designed to slow down water flows after precipitation, let water soak into soil, and allow pollutants to adhere and/or degrade. Bioswales can include underdrains.
BUILDING:	Any structure having a roof supported by columns or by walls and intended for the shelter, housing or enclosure of persons, animals, chattels of property of any kind.
Building, Accessory:	A single-story detached building located on the same lot as the primary building or principal use. When an accessory building is attached to a primary building by a common wall or roof, it is considered a part of the primary building.
Building, Primary:	A building in which is conducted a principal use permitted upon the lot upon which it is situated. In a residential zone a dwelling will be deemed to be a main building.
CARPORT:	A permanently roofed structure with not more than two (2) enclosed sides, used or intended to be used for automobile shelter and storage.
CELLAR:	The same as the definition of “Basement.”
CENTERLINE:	The centerline of any street, highway or alley.
CHILDREN'S DAY CENTER (EMOTIONALLY DISTURBED):	A facility intended solely for the admission of minors with mental illness or neurological or emotional disorders, who are provided with an organized program of services. Patients are not permitted to remain overnight.
CITY:	The City of Temple City.
CITY COUNCIL:	The City Council of the City of Temple City.
CLUB, PRIVATE:	Any building or premises used by an association of persons, whether incorporated or unincorporated, organized for some common purpose, but not including a group organized solely or primarily to render a service customarily carried on as a commercial enterprise.
COLLECTION FACILITY:	A center to collect various items (i.e. clothes, household goods, recyclable materials) from the public either as a donation or for a redemption value.
COMMERCIAL USE:	Any business that sells goods or services to the public, either retail or wholesale, for remuneration.
COMMERCIAL RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT:	Establishments providing participant or spectator recreation or entertainment, either indoors or outdoors, for a fee or admission charge.
COMMISSION:	The planning commission of the City of Temple City.
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT BUILDINGS:	Buildings housing operating electrical and mechanical equipment utilized in conducting a public utility communications operation.
COMMUNITY CARE FACILITY/LARGE:	Any State-licensed facility as defined in the Health and Safety Code section 1502(a), which primarily provides nonmedical care and supervision on a twenty-four (24) hour basis to seven (7) or more persons including, but not limited to, individuals with substance abuse disorders, physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and victims of abuse or neglect.
COMMUNITY CARE FACILITY/SMALL:	Any State-licensed facility as defined in the Health and Safety Code section 1502(a), which primarily provides nonmedical care and supervision on a twenty-four (24) hour basis to six (6) or less persons including, but not limited to, individuals with substance abuse disorders, physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, and victims of abuse or neglect. Small community care facilities are a permitted use where single-family residences are allowed and are not subject to discretionary review or approval.
COMMUNITY CLINIC:	Any facility licensed as such under Section 1204(a)(1) of the California Health and Safety Code that is operated by a nonprofit corporation, provides health care services to ambulatory patients, and is not part of a hospital. A community clinic may offer primary care, preventive care, diagnostic services, reproductive health services, and other medical services to persons regardless of their ability to pay and does not include overnight inpatient care.
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT:	A discretionary permit required for certain uses specified in this Code to provide for the thorough review of such proposed uses and their associated structures and other improvements, with the intent of ensuring that if approved, such use can be operated in a manner compatible with surrounding uses.
CONVALESCENT HOME:	The same as the definition of “Nursing and Convalescent Hospital.”
CONVENIENCE STORE:	A retail store that sells limited grocery, food, and dry goods. A convenience store may or may not include gasoline sales. Convenience stores are generally less than 3,000 square feet in floor area and function as a quick service, limited item retail outlet for convenience purposes. Convenience stores are distinct from a grocery store and are classified as "Retail sales" in the land use and permit requirement tables.
COUNCIL:	The City Council of the City of Temple City.
COURT:	An open, unoccupied space bounded on three or more sides by the walls of a building. An inner court is a court entirely enclosed within the exterior walls of a building. All other courts are outer courts.
DAY CAMP OR CHILDCARE CENTER:	A facility with an organized daytime program for the supervision and care of children.
DAY CARE, ADULT:	Establishments providing non-medical care for persons on a less than twenty-four (24)-hour basis. May provide a program of education or training, handicraft, vocational, and recreational activities. Patients are not permitted to remain overnight.
DAYCARE CENTER:	Any childcare facility other than a "Daycare home, Family", and includes infant centers, preschools, and extended daycare facilities.
DAY SPA:	A business engaged in a mixture of personal services such as haircuts, hair treatments, manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, and skin treatments rendered by licensed professionals such as manicurists, aestheticians, makeup artists, hairstylists, and other related health and beauty professionals. Day spas differ from beauty shops and nail shops by having separate or private rooms. A day spa may offer incidental massage therapy per sections 5-2-E and 9-1T-12 of this Code.
DEMOLITION:	The destruction or removal of a building or portion of a building. For purposes of determining whether a structure has been demolished, it is the intentional destruction and removal of fifty percent (50%) or more of the enclosing exterior walls and fifty percent (50%) or more of the roof of any structure.
DIRECTOR:	The Community Development Director of Temple City or his/her designee.
DISABLED VEHICLE:	A vehicle which is not operable, by reason of the removal of or damage to, integral component parts.
DISASSEMBLE:	The same as the definition of “Dismantle.”
DISCRETIONARY APPROVAL:	Any approval or entitlement granted in compliance with this Zoning Code that requires the exercise of discretion, including the ability of the review authority to impose conditions of approval.
DRIVE THROUGH:	A business where one can be served without leaving one's car and where the vehicle is customer is served by way of a window in the business, a kiosk, or similar device. This is does not include businesses that deliver items from the store to a vehicle parked in a legal parking space.
DWELLINGS, MULTIPLE:	The same as building designed or used for occupancy, as living quarters, by two (2) or more families on the same lot and containing one (1) dwelling unit for each such family.
DWELLING, NEW:	Any residential structure which is to be newly constructed or voluntarily demolished and reconstructed. A remodel or house addition shall be considered a new dwelling if the proposed project involves voluntary demolition of fifty percent (50%) or more of the enclosing exterior walls and fifty percent (50%) or more of the roof of any structure, including any attached garage.
DWELLING, SINGLE OR ONE-FAMILY:	A building designed or used for occupancy, as living quarters, by one (1) family.
DWELLING, THREE-FAMILY:	A building designed or used for occupancy, as living quarters, by three (3) families and containing three (3) dwelling units.
DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY (DUPLEX):	A building designed or used for occupancy, as living quarters, by two (2) families and containing two (2) dwelling units.
DWELLING UNIT:	One (1) or more rooms in a building or portion thereof, designed for, and intended to be used, for occupancy by one (1) family, for living quarters. A single dwelling unit will contain a maximum of one (1) kitchen and can include no more than one (1) wok kitchen and one outdoor kitchen. All habitable rooms will be internally accessible from within the dwelling unit.
EASEMENT:	A grant of one (1) or more of the property rights by the property owner to and/or for the use by the public, a corporation, or another person or entity.
EATING AND DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS:
Accessory Food Service:	An establishment that sells food and/or beverages as an accessory use in a retail, office, or institutional structure and that does not change the character of the primary use.
Bar, Lounges, Nightclubs, Taverns (Includes Independent Or Accessory Establishments):	Any establishment that sells or serves alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises and is holding or applying for a public premise license from ABC and in which persons under twenty-one (21) years of age are restricted from the premises. References to the establishment will include any immediately adjacent area that is owned, leased, or rented, or controlled by the licensee.
Fast Food:	A restaurant which supplies food and beverages primarily in disposable containers and which is characterized by high automobile accessibility, self-service and short stays by customers.
Outdoor Dining:	A dining area with seats and/or tables located outdoors of a sit-down restaurant, fast food, or other food service establishment. Outdoor dining is located entirely outside the walls of the contiguous structure or enclosed on one (1) or two (2) sides by the walls of the structure with or without a solid roof cover.
Limited:	Outdoor dining area encompassing up to eight hundred (800) square feet of area, inclusive.
General:	Outdoor dining area encompassing more than eight hundred (800) square feet of area.
Restaurant:	An establishment used primarily for the preparation and sale of food and beverages to be consumed on the premises including the sale of alcoholic beverages where incidental to the sale of food. A restaurant with a bar area exceeding five hundred (500) square feet or thirty percent (30%) of the dining area shall be classified as a bar.
Restaurant, drive-in:	A restaurant where, in whole or in part, food and beverages are served to customers, and consumed, in vehicles on the premises.
Restaurants, fast food:	A restaurant that sells prepared food either indoors or outdoors in disposable containers (e.g., paper or plastic). These uses include retail bakeries that provide on-site seating. A restaurant with a bar area exceeding five hundred (500) square feet or thirty percent (30%) of the dining area shall be classified as a bar.
Restaurant, sit-down:	An establishment engaged in the business of selling food and beverages, including alcoholic beverages, prepared on site for primarily on-site consumption. Food and beverages are served to the customer at a fixed location (i.e., booth, counter, or table). Food and beverages are ordered from individual menus. Customers typically pay for food and beverages after service and/or consumption. The sale or service of sandwiches, whether prepared in the kitchen or made elsewhere and heated up on the premises, or snack foods, will not constitute a sit-down restaurant. A restaurant with a bar area exceeding five hundred (500) square feet or thirty percent (30%) of the dining area shall be classified as a bar.
Take-out service:	An establishment that offers a limited variety of food or beverages. Transactions are sales for off-site consumption. Customers are served either at a counter or service window. Incidental seating (less than two hundred fifty (250) sq. ft. of seating area) may be provided for limited on-site consumption of food or beverages. Typical uses include bakeries, coffee stores, ice cream and frozen dessert stores, delivery-only pizza establishments, small delicatessens, and similar establishments.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION:	Any public, private or parochial elementary, junior high, high school, university, or other school giving general academic instruction in the several branches of learning, having five (5) or more students.
EFFICIENCY KITCHEN:	A cooking facility with appliances, a food preparation counter, storage cabinets, and is of reasonable size in relation to the size of the unit.
EFFICIENCY UNIT:	A dwelling unit that is not less than two hundred twenty (220) square feet of floor area with a kitchen sink, cooking appliance, and refrigeration facilities, each having a clear working space of not less than thirty inches (30") in front. The unit must be provided with a separate bathroom and the bedroom must have a separate closet. An additional one hundred (100) square feet of floor area must be required for each occupant of such unit in excess of two (2).
ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE AND VAPING DEVICE:	An electronic and/or battery-operated device, the use of which may resemble smoking, which can be used to deliver an inhaled dose of nicotine or other tobacco derived product or cannabis product. "Electronic smoking and vaping device" includes any such electronic smoking or vaping device, whether manufactured, distributed, marketed, or sold as an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette), an electronic cigar, an electronic cigarillo, an electronic pipe, an electronic hookah, personal product vaporizer (i.e., liquid, dry herb, oils, wax, etc.), electronic nicotine delivery system, e-hookah, or any other similar system. "Electronic smoking and vaping device" does not include any product specifically approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use in the mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease.
EMERGENCY SHELTER:	A managed housing facility with minimal supportive services for homeless persons and in which occupancy by a homeless person is limited to a term of six (6) months or less. No individual or household may be denied emergency shelter because of an inability to pay. Supportive services may include, but are not limited to, meal preparation, an activities center, daycare for children of homeless persons, vocational rehabilitation and other similar activities.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS:	An analysis conducted in compliance with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), California Public Resources Code section 21000 et seq.
EXPLOSIVES:	Any explosive substance as defined in section 12000 of the Health and Safety Code of the State of California.
FACADE:	The portion of any exterior elevation of a structure from grade to the top of the roofline and the width of the structure.
FAMILY:	Two (2) or more individuals living together as a single housekeeping unit in an apartment or a dwelling unit.
FAMILY DAYCARE HOMES:	A facility that regularly provides care, protection, and supervision for 14 or fewer children, in the provider's own home, for periods of less than 24 hours per day, while the parents or guardians are away, and is either a large family daycare home or a small family daycare home. Family daycare homes, includes both large and small family daycare homes.
FAR:	See “Floor Area Ratio (FAR).”
FARMERS MARKET:	An outdoor market certified for direct retail sales by farms to the public by the State or County Agricultural Commission under California Code of Regulations Title 3, Chapter 3, Article 6.5. Farmers' Markets can also include limited sales of crafts and goods.
FENCE:	An artificially constructed barrier of any material or combination of materials erected to enclose or screen areas of land. Fences do not include hedges or landscape materials.
FLOOR AREA, GROSS:	The total horizontal area of all the floors of a building included within the surrounding walls, exclusive of vents, shafts, courts and off-street parking facilities.
FLOOR AREA RATIO:	The total gross floor area included within the surrounding exterior walls of a building(s) or portion thereof divided by the lot area, prior to any required dedications. In calculating floor area ratio (FAR), the exterior walls must be counted as gross square footage. For residential uses (not mixed use or commercial), the floor area must be counted twice for any portion of the dwelling where the distance between the floor and the ceiling directly above exceeds twelve feet (12') and the height of a single-story structure or single-story portion of a two (2)-story structure exceeds eighteen feet (18'). For single-family structures and in the R-1 Zone, the floor area ratio limitations of Section 9-1G-12 will apply to:
	A.   The living area of any two-story dwelling or single-story dwelling in excess of eighteen feet (18') in height. B.   Accessory structures including garage areas in excess of required parking, pool houses, playrooms, accessory dwelling units, and the like. C.   Patios, porches, entryways, or the like (recessed or projecting) on the side or rear of structures that are more than fifty percent (50%) covered or greater than twenty percent (20%) enclosed.    1.   In instances where a portion of a patio, porch, entryway, or the like is open to the sky and an adjoining area is covered, the two (2) areas shall be calculated independently, not averaged.    2.   The area underneath a second floor overhang shall be counted toward floor area, when the overhang is greater than four feet (4') in depth or twenty-five (25) square feet.    3.   Materials such as glass, window screen, wood, stucco, brick, or any other material that is installed in a permanent manner that provides a visual or physical separation shall be considered as providing an enclosure. Exterior grade fabric curtains and mosquito netting tied back so that it does not provide a visual or physical separation shall not be considered as providing an enclosure.    In the R-2 Zone, floor area ratio limitations shall apply to all structures on a lot including enclosed garages and accessory buildings.
FRONTAGE, STREET:	The width of the front boundary line of a lot which abuts upon a street or roadway.
GAME ARCADE:	Any business enterprise or establishment having games of skill or arcade games as a principal use or more than four (4) games of skill or arcade games as an incidental use.
GARAGE:	Any building, with three (3) enclosed sides, having not less than two hundred (200) square feet of floor area, provided with a closable access door or doors, which is used or intended to be used for automobile shelter or storage.
GRADE, GROUND LEVEL:	The average level of the finished ground surface of a lot, immediately surrounding a building, measured at the center of all walls of the building.
GRADIENT:	The rate of vertical change of a ground surface expressed as a percentage figure and determined by dividing the vertical distance by the horizontal distance.
GROCERY STORE:	A self-service retailer that predominantly sells a combination of foods including, meat, produce, dairy products and household supplies. Grocery stores also typically sell baked goods, toiletries, over the counter medicines, flowers, alcoholic beverages, stationary, magazines, and pet supplies. Grocery stores also meet the performance standards found in 9-1T-19. Regardless of size, grocery stores that meet the grocery store performance standards are classified as “Retail sales, under 10,000 square feet” in the land use and permit requirement tables. Stores that predominantly sell general merchandise and have grocery sections are classified as “Retail sales, 10,000 square feet or greater”.
GYMNASIUM:	A school, place or building used for gymnastics and athletic exercise.
HANDICRAFT INDUSTRY:	Establishments engaged in on-site production of goods by hand involving the use of hand tools and small-scale equipment (i.e., drills and saws, hammers and chisels; paint brushes and sprayers; pottery wheels and kilns; sewing machines; spinning wheels, etc.) and the incidental direct sale to consumers of only those goods produced on-site.
HARDSCAPE:	Hardscape includes driveways, pathways, and decks made of materials such as asphalt, concrete, pavers, and decomposed granite.
HEAVY INDUSTRIAL:	The manufacture and/or processing of materials and goods utilizing large quantities of raw materials, and generally requiring high capitalization and production of large quantities of output. Heavy industry often sells output to other business users rather than consumers. Characteristics of heavy industry include, but are not limited to, heavy trucking activity, noise, emissions requiring federal or state environmental permits, use of large quantities of hazardous materials as defined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and requirement for specialized permits from federal and state occupational health and safety agencies.
HEDGE:	Vegetation, shrubs and/or trees planted to create a physical and/or visual barrier.
HEIGHT, BUILDING OR STRUCTURE:	The maximum allowable height will be measured as the vertical distance from the existing grade of the site to an imaginary plane located the allowed number of feet above and parallel to the grade not including rooftop appurtenances. See Figure 1 - Building Height Measurement.

 

Figure 1: Building Height Measurement

 

 

HOME OCCUPATION:	An occupation, calling or profession carried on by an occupant of a dwelling unit, within that dwelling unit, located in a residential zone.
HOSPITAL:	A facility providing medical, surgical, psychiatric, or emergency medical services to sick or injured persons, primarily on an inpatient basis. This use includes incidental facilities for outpatient treatment, as well as training, research, and administrative services for patients and employees. Excludes sanitariums and residential care facilities.
HOTEL:	Any building or portion of any building with access provided through a common entrance, lobby or hallway to six (6) or more guestrooms, with or without kitchens, and which rooms are designed, intended to be used or are used, rented or hired out as temporary or overnight accommodations for guests no more than twenty-eight (28) days at a time.
HOUSEHOLD PET:	Shall mean any domesticated animal commonly maintained in residence with man, but not including any animal which is capable of and inclined to inflict harm or discomfort to or upon any persons.
JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT:	A unit that is no more than five hundred (500) square feet in size and contained entirely within a single-family residence, or a proposed single-family residence. A junior accessory dwelling unit may include an efficiency kitchen that is of reasonable size in relation to the size of the junior accessory dwelling unit. Such units may not be sold separately from the primary residence. The property having a junior accessory dwelling unit shall require owner-occupancy.
KENNEL:	A place where four (4) or more adult dogs or cats or any combination thereof are kept, whether by owners of the animals or persons providing facilities and care therefor, whether or not for compensation. An adult dog or cat is one of either sex, altered or unaltered, that has reached the age of four months.
KITCHEN:	Any room or space within a building designed, intended to be used, or used for the cooking or the preparation of food. A kitchen includes a single refrigerator, stove or range top, and oven or microwave.
KITCHEN, WOK:	A kitchen that includes a sink, range top, and cabinets, but not an oven refrigerator, or dishwasher and which is located directly adjacent to the main kitchen and is no larger than fifty percent (50%) the size of the main kitchen. A wok kitchen is not a kitchen for the purposes of determining the existence of an accessory dwelling unit.
KITCHEN, OUTDOORS:	An outdoor cooking area that features almost all or any of the capabilities of an indoor kitchen, centered on the grill. A kitchen located outside a structure is not considered a kitchen for the purposes of determining the existence of an accessory dwelling unit.
LANDSCAPED AREA:	An area upon which landscaping is required to be continuously maintained.
LANDSCAPING:	The planting and maintenance of some combination of trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers, flowers or lawns. In addition, the combination or design may include natural features such as rock and stone; and structural features, including, but not limited to, fountains, reflecting pools, art works, screens, walls, fences and benches.
LIGHT INDUSTRIAL:	The manufacture and/or processing of consumer-oriented goods in a manner that does not produce noticeable odors, air emissions, or other environmental effects, and that has limited associated trucking activity. Light industries generally require limited amounts of raw materials to produce goods. This includes processing, fabrication, assembly and treatment, but exclude basic industrial processing from raw materials, food processing, and vehicle/equipment services.
LIGHT POLLUTION:	Light that is directed to areas where it is not needed, that interferes with some visual act or is detrimental to an abutting use or zone.
LIVE/WORK UNIT:	A unit that combines a work space and incidental residential occupancy occupied and used by a single household. Live/work units have been constructed for such use or converted from commercial or industrial use and structurally modified to accommodate residential occupancy and work activity in compliance with the California Building Code. The working space is reserved for and regularly used by one (1) or more occupants of the unit. Living space includes, but is not limited to, a sleeping area, a food preparation area with reasonable work space, and a full bathroom including bathing and sanitary facilities which satisfy the provisions of applicable codes. Live/work units can include renter-occupant and/or owner-occupant.
LONG TERM FACILITY:	An institution of one (1) patient capacity or more intended primarily for the admission of chronic mentally ill, or mentally disordered or other incompetent persons who are provided medical care, nursing services and intensive supervision.
LOT:	A portion of real property as shown as a single delineated lot with a number or other designation on a plat recorded in the office of the County Recorder.
LOT AREA:	The total area, measured in a horizontal plane, included within the lot lines of a lot. Flood control easements and driveway easements providing access to tiered or flag lots are not considered as usable lot area for purposes of determining or calculating permitted density, lot coverage, floor area ratio, permeable area, etc.
LOT COVERAGE:	The percentage of a site covered by roofs, soffits or overhangs extending more than three feet (3') from a wall, and by decks more than four feet (4') in height. Roofs with openings or perforations fifty percent (50%) or greater of their surface area, pools, or hot tubs shall not be included in lot coverage calculations.
LOT DEPTH:	The horizontal distance measured between the midpoints of the front and rear lot lines.
LOT LINE:	The boundary between a lot and other property or the public right-of-way.
Lot Line, Front:	A line separating an interior lot from a street; in the case of a corner lot, the lot line separating the narrowest street frontage of the lot from the street; in the case of a lot having no street frontage, the same will mean the narrowest lot line parallel and closest to the nearest street or highway, as determined by the director.
Lot Line, Rear:	A lot line which is most distant from the front lot line.
Lot Line, Side:	Any lot boundary line which is not a front or rear lot line.

 

Figure 2: Lot Type Diagram

 

 

LOT TYPES:	The following lot types are found in the Temple City:
Abutting Lot:	A lot or parcel of land having a common property line or separated by a public path or lane, private street, or easement to the subject lot.
Corner Lot:	A lot or parcel of land bounded on two (2) or more sides by street lines that have an angle intersection that is not more than one hundred thirty-five (135) degrees.
Cul-De-Sac Lot:	A lot or parcel of land located on the curving portion of a cul-de-sac street.
Flag Lot:	An irregularly shaped lot or parcel of land resembling a flag on a pole, located to the side and/or rear of another lot, with street frontage and access from the street to the main body of the lot ("flag" portion) provided by a narrow strip of land that is owned in fee ("pole" portion).
Front Lot:	A lot or parcel of land with frontage on a public street that is in front of a flag lot or tiered lot.
Interior Lot:	A lot or parcel of land bounded on one (1) side by a street line and on all other sides by lot lines between adjacent lots or that is bounded by more than one (1) street with an intersection greater than one hundred thirty-five (135) degrees.
Irregular Lot:	A lot or parcel of land of irregular, rather than rectangular, shape.
Key Lot:	The first interior lot to the rear of a reversed corner lot.
Reverse Corner Lot:	A corner lot, the rear of which abuts the side of another lot, whether across an alley or not.
Through Lot:	A lot or parcel of land having frontage on two (2) parallel or approximately parallel streets, but not a street and an alley.
Tiered Lot:	A lot or parcel of land without frontage on a public street that receives vehicular access by way of a private driveway, access easement, or a public street that does not meet the city's minimum standards for a street.
LOT WIDTH:	The horizontal distance between the side lot lines measured between two (2) points each located on the side lot lines at a distance midway between the front and rear lot lines.
MANUFACTURED HOUSING UNIT:	A dwelling unit which is either wholly or mainly manufactured at an off-site location and is assembled on site on a permanent foundation with permanent service connections. The definition does not include a mobile home, mobile accessory structure, or an automobile trailer or recreational vehicle.
MARIJUANA DISPENSARY:	A facility where marijuana, cannabis products, or devices for the use of cannabis or cannabis products are offered, either individually or in any combination, for retail sale, including an establishment that delivers cannabis and cannabis products as part of a retail sale.
MATERIAL RECYCLING PLANT:	An industrial use which collects and processes recyclable materials and either packages them for offsite processing in a large-scale operation (such as a transfer station or materials recovery facility) or processes the materials at the same collection location.
MEDICAL AND/OR DENTAL CLINIC:	Any facility providing physical health service, or medical, surgical or dental care of the sick or injured, but will not include inpatient or overnight accommodations. Medical clinic includes health center, health clinic, doctors' and dentists' office.
MINI-MALL:	A commercial center consisting of two (2) or more commercial units or businesses on a freestanding (self-contained) development site of less than sixty-five thousand (65,000) square feet of land area with parking situated between the building or a portion of the building and the street. For purposes of defining a mini mall, a freestanding (self-contained) development will consist of any commercial center which does not have reciprocal parking and/or reciprocal vehicular access with any other abutting or adjoining site.
MINISTERIAL:	A government decision involving little or no personal judgment by the public official as to the wisdom or manner of carrying out the action, including the issuance of a permit.
MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT (MIXED USE PROJECT):	An approach to land use development that involves integrating two (2) or more different types of uses on the same property as part of a unified development. Generally, Mixed Use Development consists of commercial and residential uses integrated either vertically in the same structure or group of structures, or horizontally on the same development site where parking, open spaces, and other development features are shared. However, light industrial and commercial development may also be considered as Mixed Use. In a Mixed-Use Development, both uses are considered primary uses of the land.
MOBILE FOOD VENDOR:	A person or business that operates or assists in the operation of a food vending vehicle.
MOBILE HOME:	See definition of "Recreational Vehicle".
MORTUARIES AND FUNERAL HOMES:	Establishments engaged in the provision of service involving the care, preparation, or disposition of human dead other than in cemeteries. May or may not include crematories. No internment is provided on site. May include areas for assembly services and living quarters for funeral home/mortuary manager.
MOTEL:	One (1) or more buildings containing guestrooms or dwelling units, with or without kitchen facilities, with one (1) or more such guestrooms or units each having a separate entrance leading directly from the outside of the buildings or from an inner court; which facilities are designed, used or intended to be used, rented or hired out for temporary or overnight accommodations for guests for no more than twenty-eight (28) days at a time.
NATURAL GRADE:	The grade at the time of an application being filed or the grade before being altered by artificial means such as cut, fill, landscaping, or berming.
NONCONFORMING USE, BUILDING OR STRUCTURE:	The utilization of any lot, structure, building or improvement lawfully established and in use prior to the time this chapter, becomes effective, or having had a nonconforming status under the prior zoning regulations of city, but which utilization, due to the application of this chapter, or any amendment thereto, does not comply with all of the regulations currently applicable to the zone in which the use, lot, building or structure is located.
NON-STOREFRONT, DELIVERY-ONLY, MEDICAL, CANNABIS RETAIL BUSINESSES:	A commercial operation that is closed to the public but delivers medical cannabis and, or medical cannabis products as part of retail sale transactions to customers at fixed locations in accordance with state law. No on-site sales, nor public access to commercial facilities or delivery vehicles, is permitted. Non-storefront, delivery-only medical cannabis retailers must be authorized to engage in the retail sale by delivery of medicinal cannabis to medicinal cannabis patients pursuant to State License: Type M-Type 9, Non-Storefront Retailer.
NURSERY SCHOOL:	The same as the definition of "Day Camp or Childcare Center".
NURSING AND CONVALESCENT HOSPITAL:	Any place or institution which provides bed accommodations for one (1) or more chronic or convalescent patients, who, by reason of illness or physical infirmity, are unable to properly care for themselves. Alcoholics, drug addicts, persons with mental or communicable diseases, including contagious tuberculosis, will not be admitted or cared for in nursing and convalescent hospitals.
OATH:	Includes affirmation.
OFFICE:	An establishment offering administrative, financial, general business, non-dental, non-medical, professional, public service, and similar office uses.
OPEN SPACE:	Landscape area other than a required front yard area, driveway, swimming pool, or off-street parking facility with no building or structure located therein. Must have a minimum dimension of ten feet (10').
OUTDOOR ADVERTISING STRUCTURES:	Signs or other advertising structure, which solicit public support or directs public attention to the sale, lease, hire, promotion or use of any objects, products, services or functions, which are not produced, sold or otherwise available on the premises where such sign or structure is located.
PARALLEL PARKING SPACE:	A parking space which is situated parallel to the direction of traffic in a driveway, off street parking facility or street.
PARK:	The standing of a motor vehicle, other than for the purpose of loading or unloading merchandise or passengers.
PARKING, JOINT USE:	The use of a single parking facility by several related uses occupying the same or adjacent parcels. For example, the use of a single parking facility by tenants of a shopping center.
PARKING, SHARED:	The use of a single parking facility by two (2) distinctly different uses with distinctly different hours of operation such that the shared use of the facility can be accomplished without limiting the ability of one use to occupy the facility to the detriment of the other. For example, distinctly different uses could be a place of religious assembly which generally has weekend parking demands and an office development, which typically uses the parking facility during the week.
PARKING SPACE:	A readily accessible area, not including driveways, ramps, loading or work areas, maintained exclusively for the parking of one (1) automobile.
PARKWAY:	That portion of the public right-of-way between the curb and sidewalk or, where no sidewalk is provided, between the curb and adjacent private property line. A parkway generally includes landscape improvements.
PERMEABLE SURFACES:	A surface where the surfacing material itself is impermeable to the inflow of rainwater, but the surface has inlets or holes through it which water enters the soil or construction below.
PICTURE WINDOW:	A window on an elevation facing the front yard that is larger than the adjacent windows or the largest window on the front facing façade. Picture windows either have less panes of glass than the adjacent windows or do not have any muntins. Examples of a picture window include:
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT:	An area of land, controlled by a landowner, to be developed as a unified project and single entity for a group of townhouse dwellings and/or detached dwelling units, the plan for which may not correspond in lot size, bulk or type of dwelling, density, lot coverage, setback or required open space to the regulations in this code.
PLANNING COMMISSION:	The Planning Commission of the City of Temple City, also referred to as commission or Commission.
PORTE-COCHERE:	An accessory structure open on three (3) sides and attached to the side or front of a building through which cars pass and is established for the convenient loading and unloading of passengers from an automobile. A porte-cochere is not a carport or garage, nor may it be used to satisfy off-street parking requirements.
PRIMARY USE:	The principal or predominant use of any lot, building, or structure.
PROCESSING:	When used in reference to a commercial or industrial use, one (1) or more acts or operations which have the effect of changing the form of a product or material, to render the same more salable or usable.
PUBLIC FACILITY:	A site or structure owned and operated by the City of Temple City, or other public agencies, for the purpose of providing one or more services to residents of the city, and/or to support other city functions.
QUARRY:	Any place on a lot or parcel of land where dirt, soil, sand, gravel, rock or other similar material is removed by excavation or otherwise, for any purpose. Quarry will not include the excavation and removal of earth from a lot preparatory to construction of a building or structure, for which a valid building or grading permit has been issued by city; provided that such excavation will be confined to that necessary for such construction or otherwise authorized by such permit.
RECHARGING STATION:	A location that supplies electricity for the recharging of electric vehicles (including plug-in hybrids).
RECORDER:	The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE (RV):	A motor home, travel trailer, truck camper, camping trailer, pop-up campers, or boat or other water sport vehicle, with or without motive power, designed for recreational purposes. The definition includes any empty trailer on which an RV may be transported or stored. In no cases will a RV be classified as a mobile home or dwelling unit.
REPAIR:	The work necessary to restore to a usable condition.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT:	Establishments engaged in industrial or scientific research, including product testing. Includes electronic research firms or pharmaceutical research laboratories. Excludes manufacturing, except of prototypes, or medical testing and analysis.
RESIDENCE, SINGLE-FAMILY:	A structure containing one (1) dwelling unit. "Residence, Single-Family" will also include a modular home manufactured and certified under the National Mobilehome Construction and Safety Standard Act of 1974 on a permanent foundation system approved by the County Engineer.
REST HOME:	The same as the definition of “Nursing and Convalescent Hospital.”
RETAIL:	An establishment involving retail sales of new merchandise to the general public. The establishment is not allowed to have more than twenty five percent (25%) of the total floor area to be used for manufacturing or processing.
REVERSE VENDING MACHINE:	An automated mechanical device which accepts at least one (1) or more types of empty beverage containers including aluminum cans, glass, and plastic bottles, and issues a cash refund or a redeemable credit slip with a value not less than the container's redemption value as determined by state law. A reverse vending machine may sort and process containers mechanically provided that the entire process is enclosed within the machine. To accept and temporarily store all container types in a proportion commensurate with their relative redemption rates, and to meet the requirements of certification as a recycling facility, multiple grouping of reverse vending machines may be necessary, in which case the machines are considered a collection facility. A reverse vending machine is considered an accessory to a primary use. Reverse vending machines are no greater than fifty (50) square feet in size and eight (8) feet in height. Larger facilities are considered a collection facility.
RIGHT-OF-WAY:	A strip of land acquired by reservation, dedication, forced dedication, prescription or condemnation and intended to be occupied or occupied by a road, railroad, electric transmission lines, oil or gas pipeline, water line, sanitary storm sewer or other similar use.
SEASONAL SALES:	Temporary retail sale of seasonal merchandise. Examples include farm produce stands, Christmas tree sales lots, and pumpkin patches.
SETBACKS:	The distance from which a structure, parking area or other development feature will be separated from a prescribed property line, easement or other structure or development feature. All setback distances will be measured at right angles from the property line, easement or other structure or development feature, and the setback line will be drawn parallel to the designated property line, easement or other structure or development feature at the requested setback distance.
SETBACK, FRONT:	The minimum distance required between a structure and the front property line.
SETBACK, REAR:	The minimum distance required between a structure and the rear property line.
SETBACK, SIDE:	The minimum distance required between a structure and a side property line.
SHOPPING CENTER:	A group of two (2) or more contiguous or adjacent retail commercial business establishments planned, developed, owned or managed as a single unit. See definition of "Mini-Mall" for any freestanding (self-contained) development site of less than sixty-five thousand (65,000) square feet of land area.
SHORT TERM RENTAL:	A use in which a dwelling, or portion thereof, is rented or offered for rent for compensation for a period of less than twenty-eight (28) consecutive calendar days. This includes any arrangement in which the rental period is less than twenty-eight (28) consecutive days or can be reduced below twenty-eight (28) consecutive days, or in which the dwelling is rented multiple times within twenty-eight (28) consecutive days. This definition does not apply to residential care facilities or dwellings operated as a group home pursuant to the Community Care Facilities Act that are otherwise exempt from local zoning regulations. This includes the advertising of a short-term rental.
SIGN:	Any device for visual communication, including any announcement, declaration, demonstration, display, illustration or insignia, which is used to advertise or promote the products or services of any person, business group or enterprise available on the lot where located.
SINGLE ROOM OCCUPANCY (SRO) BUILDING:	Any building containing five (5) or more guestrooms or units which are used, rented, or hired out to be occupied for sleeping purposes by residents, and which is also the primary residence of those residents. The individual units may lack either cooking facilities or a full bathroom, or both. However, for purposes of this definition, a SRO does not include residential care homes, senior housing projects, rooming and boarding houses, hotels and motels, bed and breakfast lodging, extended care facilities or hospitals.
STATE:	The State of California.
STORAGE - OUTDOOR:	The storage of various materials outside of a structure other than fencing, either as an accessory or primary use.
STORAGE - PERSONAL:	A structure containing a separate storage space that is designed to be leased or rented individually. Indoor storage will mean that access to all storage spaces will be from common interior corridors, and the facility has only shared loading areas. This use does not include outdoor storage of any kind. Further, such storage does not involve any manufacturing, office or business services, or human habitation in any storage space or anywhere on site. Also known as mini-storage.
STORY:	That portion of a building including between the upper surface of any floor and the upper surface of the floor next above, except that the topmost story will be that portion of a building included between the upper surface of the topmost floor and the ceiling or roof above. "Story" includes a basement.
STREET:	A public or private way, other than a major highway, secondary highway or alley, permanently reserved as a means of vehicular access to an adjoining property.
STRUCTURE:	Anything constructed or erected, which requires a fixed location on the ground, or is attached to something having a fixed location on the ground.
STUDIO - ART AND MUSIC:	Small-scale instructional facilities or a small practice space for the individual artist, musician, or any individual practitioner of the activities defined here, typically accommodating one group of students at a time, in no more than one (1) instructional space. Examples include: individual and group instruction and training in the arts, production rehearsal, photography and the processing of photographs produced only by users of the studio facilities. Also includes production studios for individual filmmakers, musicians, painters, sculptors, photographers, and other artists. These uses may also include accessory retail sales of products related to the services provided. Does not include dance, yoga, gymnastics, and martial arts studios.
SUBDIVISION:	The division of a tract of land, shown on the latest equalized county assessment roll as a unit or as continuous units, into defined lots, either improved or unimproved, which can be separately conveyed by sale, lease, or financing, and which can be altered or developed. The process often includes setting aside land for streets, sidewalks, parks, public areas, and other infrastructure needs, including the designation of the location of utilities.
SUPPORTIVE HOUSING:	Housing with no limit on the length of stay and that is occupied by persons from the target population as defined by Health and Safety Code section 50675.14(b)(2) as the same may be amended from time to time, and that provides a significant level of on site and off site services that assist the supportive housing residents in retaining the housing, improving their health status and maximizing their ability to live, and when possible, to work in the community. Supportive housing may be provided under all residential housing types. In all cases, supportive housing will be treated as a residential use under this chapter and will be subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential uses of the same residential housing type located in the same zoning district.
TEMPORARY USE:	A use of land that is designed, operated, and occupies a site for a limited period.
THRIFT RETAIL STORE:	A retail store and related donation facility engaged primarily in the sale of secondhand clothing, shoes, apparel, toys, and standard household goods, including furniture, fixtures, and small household appliances, and the collection of those goods for resale. “Thrift retail store” does not include the sale of large “non-portable” household appliances such as refrigerators or stoves and does not include the sale of cars or anything automotive-related.
TOWNHOME (TOWNHOUSE):	Townhomes are multi-family dwellings that are attached along common walls, where an individual unit occupies the space from the ground to the roof (units cannot be stacked).
TRANSITIONAL HOUSING:	Housing operated under program requirements that call for: a) the termination of assistance to an existing program recipient occupying a transitional housing unit and b) the subsequent reassignment of the assisting residential unit to another eligible program recipient at some predetermined future point in time that will be no less than six (6) months into the future. Transitional housing services may include, but not be limited to, meals, counseling, and other services as well as common areas for residents. Transitional housing may be provided under all residential housing types. In all cases, transitional housing will be treated as a residential use under this chapter and will be subject only to those restrictions that apply to other residential uses of the same residential housing type located in the same zoning district.
TRANSITIONAL HEIGHT PLANE:	A geometric plane that establishes the maximum permitted height of a building in a district that allows a greater density or height than that of an adjoining lower-density residential district.
TRIPLEX:	The same as the definition of a three (3)-family dwelling.
UNATTENDED COLLECTION BOXES (UCBS):	Unstaffed drop-off boxes, containers, receptacles, or similar facilities that accept textiles, shoes, books, household goods, recyclable materials, and/or other salvageable personal property items. This does not include garbage bins, library book drops, postal or parcel boxes for public and private carriers, or the like.
UNIT, COMMERCIAL AND MANUFACTURING:	A space occupied by a business enterprise(s) located within a building or portion of a building with direct access from the accessway intended for use by the general public. A commercial or manufacturing unit will have the following features: a completely enclosed room or interconnecting rooms with lockable doors to common accessways or the exterior, full walls from the floor to the ceiling, independent cooling and ventilation controls, independent lighting which is controlled within the unit itself.
UNIT DEVELOPMENT:	The construction, maintenance and operation of any combination of two (2) or more permitted uses, buildings and structures, based on a comprehensive and complete design or plan treating the entire complex of land, buildings, structures and uses as a single project.
URBAN DWELLINGS:	Dwelling units established in accordance with Section 65852.21 of the Government Code and Section 9-1T-21 of the Temple City Municipal Code.
USE:	The utilization of a lot, building, structure, or any other improvement upon a lot, or any combination thereof.
UTILITY STRUCTURES AND SERVICE FACILITIES:	All lines and facilities owned and/or operated by a licensed provider and related to the provision, distribution, collection, transmission, or disposal of water, storm drainage, sanitary sewage, oil, gas, electricity, information, telecommunications, telephone cable, and similar services. Includes facilities for the generation of electricity. Does not include "Communications Facilities" or "Wireless Telecommunications Facilities."
VARIANCE:	A modification of the specific regulations of this code granted by the legislative body in accordance with the terms of this code for the purpose of assuring that no property, because of special circumstances applicable to it, will be deprived of privileges commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same vicinity and zone.
VEHICLE:	Means and includes motorcycles, motor driven cycle, motor truck, passenger vehicle, station wagon, truck tractor, trailer, and vehicle, as these phrases are defined in the Vehicle Code of the State of California, and all similar types of vehicles.
VEHICLE RENTALS:	Rental of automobiles, construction equipment, motorcycles, drones, mopeds, motorized scooters, recreational vehicles, trucks, and similar vehicles and equipment powered by a motor, including on-site storage and incidental maintenance that does not require pneumatic lifts.
VEHICLE REPAIR:	The repair of motor vehicles in an enclosed building, including the repair or replacement of engines and transmissions, body and fender repair, and the installation of nonfactory-installed products.
VEHICLE SALES:	Sale of automobiles, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, trucks, and similar vehicles and equipment, including display, storage, maintenance, repair, and incidental rental of the vehicles and equipment. May include the sale, installation, and servicing of related equipment and parts.
VENDING MACHINE:	An automated mechanical device which ejects consumer products including but not limited to snack food items, non-alcoholic beverages, electronic devices, and movies, and that accepts cash, debit, and/or credit.
WALL:	A physical barrier constructed largely of masonry, brick, concrete, stucco, concrete block, or any combination thereof and intended to mark a boundary.
WALL, RETAINING:	A wall not laterally supported at the top that resists lateral soil load and other imposed loads.
WAREHOUSE OR WAREHOUSING:	An establishment engaged in providing facilities for the storage of furniture, household goods, products, or other commercial goods of any nature. Includes cold storage. Does not include personal storage facilities offered for rent or lease to the general public; or warehouse facilities in which the primary purpose of storage is for wholesaling ("Wholesaling").
WATER-EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE:	Landscaping materials that are designed and maintained to function in a healthful and visually pleasing manner with limited water use, including plants which have minimal water requirements for subsistence, plants native to hot/dry environments, and xeriscape plants.
WHOLESALING:	The sale of commercial goods at or near production cost.
YARD:	An area upon a lot or parcel of land, other than a court or open space, required as a front, side or rear yard, which will be maintained unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward; provided that encroachment will be permitted in yards only as expressly authorized by this article.
Yard, Front:	A yard extending across the front of a lot, from the front property line to the dwelling on the property. The depth of a front yard will be a specified horizontal distance measured between the front lot line and a line parallel thereto, on the lot.
Yard, Interior Side:	A yard extending along an interior side of a lot, from the front property line to the rear lot line. The depth of an interior side yard will be a specified horizontal distance measured inward from the interior side lot line.
Yard, Rear:	A yard extending across the rear of a lot for its full width between side lot lines. The depth of a rear yard will be a specified horizontal distance measured between the rear lot line and a line parallel thereto, on the lot.
Yard, Street Side:	A yard extending along the street side of a corner lot from the front lot line to the rear lot line. The depth of a street side yard will be a specified horizontal distance measured inward from the street side lot line.
Yard Sales:	The temporary sale of goods, wares or merchandise from a residential property principally used as a residence.
ZONE:	Any of the residential, commercial, industrial, special-purpose, or overlay districts established in the zoning code, within which certain land uses are allowed or prohibited, and certain site planning and development standards are established.

 

(Ord. 19-1036; amd. Ord. 20-1040U; Ord. 20-1047; Ord. 20-1048; Ord. 1055; Ord. 21-1059; Ord. 23-1069; Ord. 25-1081 U; Ord. 25-1082, 9-2-2025; Ord. 25-1086, - -2026)

9-1B-1: ESTABLISHMENT OF ZONES:

9-1B-2: ZONING MAP ADOPTED BY REFERENCE:

9-1B-3: RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND VACATED BOUNDARY LINES:

9-1B-4: UNCERTAINTY OF BOUNDARIES:

9-1B-5: CLASSIFICATION OF ANNEXED LANDS:

9-1C-1: CITY COUNCIL:

9-1C-2: PLANNING COMMISSION:

9-1C-3: DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT:

9-1C-4: PLANNING DIVISION STAFF:

9-1C-7: ENFORCEMENT:

9-1D-1: GENERAL NONCONFORMING PROVISIONS:

9-1D-2: NONCONFORMING LOTS:

9-1D-3: NONCONFORMING STRUCTURES:

9-1D-4: NONCONFORMING USES:

9-1D-5: OTHER SPECIFIC NONCONFORMING PROVISIONS:

9-1E-1: PARKING SPACES REQUIRED:

9-1E-2: PARKING SPACE STANDARDS:

A.   Minimum dimensions for parking spaces are shown in Table 9-1E-2.

 

Table 9-1E-2 Off-Street Vehicle Parking Space Dimensions
	Size of Parking Stall (min.)		Aisle Width
	Width	Length	One-way	Two-way
Standard Dimensions
Parallel	9 ft.	24 ft.	13 ft.	20 ft.
30-Degree	9 ft.	17 ft.	15 ft.	20 ft.
45-Degree	9 ft.	19 ft.	18 ft.	22 ft.
60-Degree	9 ft.	20 ft.	24 ft.	24 ft.
90-Degree	8 ft., 6 in.	18 ft.	See Footnote 1	25 ft.
Compact	8 ft.	15 ft.	See Standard Dimensions
Tandem (1 space)	10 ft.	20 ft.	See Standard Dimensions
Residential Garage	10 ft.	20 ft.	--	--
Motorcycle	4 ft.	7 ft.	--	--
Bicycle	2 ft.	6 ft.	--	--
1. One-way aisles are prohibited for 90 degree parking.

 

B.   Vertical Obstructions: The width of all parking spaces must comply with the minimum requirements of this Section and provide a minimum of one foot of additional clearance on each side of the parking space next to a vertical obstruction exceeding six inches (6") in height.

C.   Driveway Width: All driveways must meet the minimum and maximum widths shown in Table 9-1E-3. For single family houses, the maximum driveway width is limited to ten feet (10') when a one car garage is located at or near the front setback or the garage is located to the rear of the lot and twenty feet (20') when a two (2) car garage is located at or near the front setback.

 

Table 9-1E-3 Driveway Widths
	Driveway Width (feet)
	Min.	Max.
Single Family Residential	8 ft.	10 ft. - 20 ft.
Multi-family Residential
Lots with two units	10 ft.	16 ft. (12 ft. of hardscape)
Lots with 25 or fewer spaces	10 ft.	--
Lots with 26 or more spaces
One-way	10 ft.	--
Two-way	20 ft.	--
Non-Residential
Lots with 14 or fewer spaces	12 ft.	--
Lots with 15 or more spaces
One-way	12 ft.	--
Two-way	20 ft.	--

 

D.   Residential Driveway Requirements:

   1.   All driveways will be clear and unobstructed for a height of twelve feet (12') above ground.

   2.   Driveways must lead to an approved off-street parking structure, garage or carport. Where driveways no longer lead to an off-street parking structure, garage or carport, the driveway approach, curb and gutter will be replaced to match the adjacent improvements to the satisfaction of the city engineer and the paved parking surface will be replaced with landscaping.

   3.   Automobiles, recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, or similar vehicles parked in any front yard or street side yard area of any R zoned lot must be parked on a paved driveway area leading directly to a legal parking area or garage.

   4.   Recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, or the like must not be parking in the front yard setback area for a period of more than one (1) week.

   5.   Recreational vehicles, boats, and the like more than six and one- half feet (6.5') in height and stored in a driveway behind the front yard setback must be screened with a six-foot (6') fence or gate.

   6.   A circular type driveway may be constructed provided:

      a.   The lot on which the circular driveway is proposed is at least ninety feet (90') in width;

      b.   On lots with more than one (1) street frontage, the circular driveway is located on the street frontage which is ninety feet (90') or greater;

      c.   The lot on which the driveway is proposed is in the R-1 zone;

      d.   The driveway has, or connects with a driveway which has, direct access to a legal parking area or structure;

      e.   The entire width of the driveway, at some point thereon, is located entirely behind the required setback area;

      f.   The driveway does exceed the requirements found in Table 9-1E-3;

      g.   There is a minimum of thirty feet (30') of full height curb between the two (2) driveway approaches, measured at their nearest points.

   7.   R-1 zoned properties or properties with single-family uses along Temple City Boulevard, Rosemead Boulevard, Baldwin Avenue, Santa Anita Avenue, streets where the posted maximum speed limit is thirty-five (35) miles per hour or greater, or other locations as determined by the community development director, where the existing garage and driveway location makes it infeasible for a vehicle to enter the street in a forward facing direction may provide a turnaround area nine feet (9') in width, twelve feet (12') in depth, and with four-foot (4') right triangles adjacent to the turnaround area and the driveway (see diagram below labeled "Turnaround Area Diagram").

      a.   The paving in the turnaround area shall be decorative concrete pavers, turf block, or similarly high-quality options approved by the community development director.

      b.   This turnaround area shall not be used for vehicular parking.

      c.   The turnaround area shall not be combined with walkways in such a manner as to allow for the creation of a parking space sized area in the front yard.

      d.    Properties where new development is proposing a garage in the rear shall provide a turnaround area in the rear portion of the lot to limit the amount of paving in the front yard.

   Turnaround Area Diagram

   8.     Residential Backup Space: The backup space for garage parking will be a function of the width of the garage door opening. The backup dimension shall comply with the requirements in Table 9-1E-4, "Minimum Backup Dimension and Garage Door Width", of this section. For the purposes of this section, "garage door width" shall be defined as the clear opening between structural elements. The measurement for backup space shall follow the "Minimum Backup Dimension and Garage Door Diagram", of this section. The backup space for a single-family use may protrude into the sidewalk and parkway portions of the public right-of-way, but not the street.

 

Table 9-1E-4 MINIMUM BACKUP DIMENSION AND GARAGE DOOR WIDTH
2 Spaces	1 Space	Minimum Backup Dimension
20 feet	12 feet	20 feet
19 feet	10 feet	22 feet
18 feet	9 feet	24 feet
16 feet	8 feet	28 feet

 

   9.   Alley access: When alley access is available, the access must be taken from the alley unless approval is granted by the director.

   10.   Oversized Vehicle Parking: No vehicle which is registered for commercial purposes pursuant to the applicable provisions of the vehicle code of the State of California and which exceeds three tons in unladen weight must be parked or left standing on any part of any R-zoned property or any property where the primary use is residential for more than 30 consecutive minutes, unless actual loading or unloading of the vehicle is in progress on the property.

   Minimum Backup Dimension and Garage Door Diagram

E.   Non-Residential Driveway Requirements:

   1.   Driveway widths will be a minimum of sixteen feet (16') and a maximum of thirty feet (30').

   2.   Where separate driveways are provided for ingress and egress, the minimum width for each will be twelve feet (12') and the maximum width for each will be twenty feet (20'), and the direction of travel will be clearly indicated on the site by permanent identification.

   3.   All driveways will be clear and unobstructed for a height of twelve feet (12') above ground.

   4.   Driveways must lead to an approved parking lot, off-street parking structure, garage or carport. Where driveways no longer lead to an off-street parking structure, garage or carport, the driveway approach, curb and gutter will be replaced to match the adjacent improvements to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and the paved parking surface will be replaced with landscaping.

   5.   The minimum separation distance of any two (2) driveways not on the same property will be twenty feet (20'). For two (2)-way driveways on the same property, the minimum distance will be fifty feet (50').

   6.   All driveway access will be from a dedicated street or alley. When alley access is available, the access must be taken from the alley unless approval is granted by the director.

   7.   On sites with less than eighty feet (80') of frontage, no more than one (1) driveway will be permitted. On sites with eighty feet (80') or more of frontage, additional driveways may be approved through the Site Plan and Design Review process. On sites that front arterial streets with less than two hundred feet (200') of frontage, no more than one (1) driveway will be permitted. On sites with two hundred feet (200') or more of frontage, additional driveways may be approved through the Site Plan and Design Review process.

F.   Parking Lot Location:

   1.   Except as otherwise allowed herein, all required off-street parking spaces will always be accessible from a street.

   2.   All required off-street parking spaces will be located on the same lot or within the same development as the use and/or development requiring such spaces, except where off-site parking is provided as outlined in Section 9-1E-6 Subsection B, Off-site Shared Parking.

G.   Entrance Driveway and Parking Grades:

   1.   Driveways will not exceed a maximum grade of plus twelve percent (12%) or minus six percent (-6%) measured along the driveway centerline, unless approved by City Engineer. Where there is a change in the slope of the driveway, it will be demonstrated that vehicles will be able to pass over the change in slope without interference with the vehicle's undercarriage.

   2.   Parking spaces and abutting access aisles will have a maximum grade of five percent, measured in any direction.

H.   Compact Parking:

   1.   A maximum of fifteen percent (15%) of non-residential off-street parking spaces may be compact car parking spaces.

   2.   Existing parking lots or properties with approved compact parking spaces can remain. Compact parking spaces may remain if the parking lot is restriped.

   3.   Compact parking spaces will be distributed throughout the parking lot, with a maximum of four spaces in any one (1) location. Where compact parking is provided strictly for employee parking, all such parking may be in a single area of the parking lot.

   4.   For developments characterized by distinct, segmented parking areas, the maximum allowed percentage of compact stalls will apply to each area or segment of the parking lot. Compacts spaces will not be located adjacent to retaining walls or other formidable barriers which prevent adequate vehicle overhang.

   5.   Each compact space will be clearly labeled "COMPACT." Signs may be painted on the pavement or curb and will be a minimum of one-foot (1') high letters when painted on the pavement or six-inch (6") high letters when painted on the curb.

I.   Tandem Parking for Residential:

   1.   For multi-family development projects, tandem spaces will not constitute more than thirty percent (30") of all required spaces within a development and will be allowed only for studio, one (1)- and two (2)-bedroom units. For the purposes of this section only, the parking space which is accessible without moving a vehicle is not defined as tandem.

   2.   Tandem spaces must be assigned to the same residential unit.

   3.   Each required parking space in a garage must be no less than ten feet (10') wide and twenty feet (20') long. Tandem parking can be used for the third and additional parking spaces.

   4.   The minimum dimensions for a tandem space will be as provided in Table 9-1E-2. Adequate maneuvering room for both vehicles and pedestrians will be provided around the tandem spaces as necessary.

J.   Tandem Parking for Non-Residential:

   1.   For non-residential development projects, no more than seventy- five percent (75%) can be two (2) tandem spaces and fifty percent (50%) can be three (3) tandem spaces. A full-time attendant on duty will be required.

   2.   The minimum dimensions for a tandem space will be as provided in Table 9-1E-2. Adequate maneuvering room for both vehicles and pedestrians will be provided around the tandem spaces as necessary.

K.   Markings of Spaces:

   1.   All signing and striping installations will be in conformance with the city's current standards or as otherwise deemed necessary by the city engineer to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow in or about any parking facility. Painted curbs (i.e. loading, passenger drop-off), cannot constitute a required parking space.

   2.   Vehicular parking spaces will be clearly outlined with four-inch (4") wide lines painted on the surface of the parking facility. Compact and carpool spaces will be clearly identified for compact vehicle and carpool usage respectively.

   3.   Parking spaces for the disabled will be striped and marked according to the applicable state standards.

L.   Electric Vehicles:

   1.   The city recognizes the importance of encouraging and accommodating the use of electric and other alternative fuel vehicles as a means of reducing regional air pollutant emissions. Therefore, this section establishes guidelines for providing parking facilities that support the use of such vehicles. As part of the site plan process, special parking facilities will be provided to accommodate electric or other alternative fuel vehicles.

   2.   Generally, such facilities should be provided where more than one hundred (100) parking spaces are required per this chapter, or whenever the redesign of an existing parking lot with two hundred fifty (250) or more spaces is proposed.

   3.   Where electric vehicle recharging facilities are provided, the following development standards will apply:

      a.   At least one (1) separate meter panel for the sole purpose of electric vehicle recharging must be provided and sized to handle the required electric vehicle recharging spaces.

      b.   Photovoltaic or similar solar power facilities are encouraged to be integrated into the facility.

      c.   Service equipment, new or existing, of enough size and ampere capacity to accommodate the additional meter panels must be installed.

      d.   Overhead lighting must be adequate to allow proper and safe utilization of the recharging equipment.

      e.   When an electric vehicle charging station and its associated equipment are installed within existing required parking spaces, replacement of required parking spaces is not required, regardless of the number of spaces removed.

      f.   An accessible parking space with an access aisle that is served by electric vehicle supply equipment, or is designated for future installation for vehicle charging, must be counted as the equivalent of two (2) standard automobile parking spaces for the purpose of satisfying minimum off-street parking requirements.

      g.   Electric vehicle charging spaces, including spaces designated for future charging use, count toward meeting minimum parking requirements.

(Ord. 19-1036; amd. Ord. 20-1047; Ord. 22-1060; Ord. 23-1069; Ord. 26-1086, - -2026)

9-1E-3: LANDSCAPE STANDARDS FOR PARKING LOTS:

9-1E-4: PARKING DESIGN CRITERIA:

9-1E-5: ALTERNATIVE PARKING STRATEGIES:

9-1E-6: LOADING:

9-1F-1: PURPOSE:

9-1F-2: APPLICABILITY:

9-1F-3: DEFINITIONS:

 

A-FRAME SIGN:	A portable freestanding sign that is hinged, folded, or otherwise angled at the top and widens at the bottom to form a side facing shape like the letter "A."
ABANDONED NONCONFORMING SIGN:	A nonconforming sign that is advertising a use that has ceased, or is located upon a structure that has been abandoned for more than ninety (90) days. See "Abandoned Sign." For the purposes of this definition, abandonment for the applicable ninety (90)-day period shall be deemed conclusive evidence of abandonment irrespective of the property, sign, or business owner's intent.
ABANDONED SIGN:	A sign that is advertising a use that has ceased; is located upon a structure that has been abandoned by its owner; does not identify or advertise a current bona fide business, lessor, service, owner, or product available upon the site; or that identifies or advertises an event or activity that has previously occurred. See section 9-1F-18 (Abandoned Signs) for timelines for determining abandonment.
ADDRESS SIGN:	The numeric reference of a structure or use to a street included as part of a sign.
ANIMATED SIGN:	A sign that uses movement, lighting, or special materials to depict action or create a special effect or scene. This classification includes wind-actuated and other elements (e.g., balloons, bunting, pennants, streamers, whirligigs), or other similar devices.
AWNING:	A roof-like structure usually covered in fabric (e.g., canvas) that projects from the wall of a structure to shield a doorway or window from the elements.
AWNING SIGN:	A sign painted on, printed on, or attached to the surface of an awning. This does not include signs attached to architectural projections (such as metal frames projecting from the building which take the place of a wall sign). See Figure 9-1F-3-A (Awning Sign).

 

Figure 9-1F-3-A - Awning Sign

 

BACK-LIT AWNING:	An internally illuminated, fixed, space-frame structure with translucent, flexible, fabric reinforced covering designed in an awning form and with graphics or copy applied to the visible surface of the awning.
BANNER SIGN:	A sign made of fabric or any non-rigid material with no enclosing framework.
BILLBOARD:	A permanent structure used for the display of off-site commercial messages (see "Off-Site Signs").
BLADE/BRACKET SIGN:	A small, pedestrian-oriented sign that projects perpendicular from a structure (blade sign) or is hung beneath an awning or canopy (bracket sign). See also "Projecting Sign."
BUILDING IDENTIFICATION SIGN:	A sign which is located on, and parallel to a building wall which announces the name of the building, such as "The Empire State Building."
BUILDING MARKER:	A sign indicating the name of a building and date and incidental information about its construction which is cut into a masonry surface or made of bronze or other durable material.
CABINET SIGN:	A sign that has one or more plastic, acrylic, or similar material faces (panels) that may or may not be internally illuminated. The sign panels may be either flat or shaped ("pan face") and are attached to a metal frame (cabinet).
CANOPY:	A permanent roof-like structure of rigid or fabric materials extending from the main entrance of a structure and typically supported by posts at the corners farthest from where the canopy attaches to the structure. See also "Awning."
CANOPY SIGN:	A sign located on a permanent roof- like structure or canopy of rigid or fabric materials extending from the main entrance of a structure. See Figure 9-1F-3-B (Canopy Sign).

 

Figure 9-1F-3-B - Canopy Sign

 

CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN (ELECTRONIC):	A sign with changeable copy that is changed by incorporating video display, flip-disks, incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, fiber optics, light-emitting diodes (LED), liquid crystal displays, plasma-displays, field emission displays, or any other mechanical or light-emitting matrix to convey changing copy or images. Also considered an animated sign. See Figure 9-1F-3-C (Changeable Copy Sign).
CHANGEABLE COPY SIGN (MANUAL):	A sign with changeable copy that is manually changed, regardless of method of attachment or materials of construction. This classification includes bulletin boards and changeable copy signs on marquees. Does not include electronic message boards with lighted displays. See Figure 9-1F-3-C (Changeable Copy Signs).

 

Figure 9-1F-3-C - Changeable Copy Sign

 

CHANNEL LETTERING:	Three-dimensional sign face lettering or logos such that the sign is on a different plane than the sign backing or structure.
COMMERCIAL MASCOT:	Animated beings, including those wearing masks or costumes, that hold signs or are used as moving signs, for the purpose of advertising an establishment within a non-residential zone. This includes sign twirlers, sign clowns, etc.
COMMERCIAL MESSAGE:	A message displayed on a sign that relates primarily to economic interests (e.g., the exchange or sale of goods or services). This definition shall automatically incorporate court rulings defining the term "commercial speech."
CONSTRUCTION SIGN:	A temporary sign erected on a parcel where construction is taking place that lasts the duration of the permit.
CONTENT NEUTRALITY:	See section 9-1F-4 (General Provisions).
COPY:	The graphic content of a sign surface in either permanent or removable letter, pictographic, symbolic, or alphabetic form.
DEPARTMENT:	The Community Development Department of the City of Temple City.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN:
On-site directional sign:	A sign giving directions for traffic (vehicular and/or pedestrian), instructions, or facility information of an establishment upon the same property, but with no advertising copy (e.g., stop signs, parking, or exit and entrance signs). See Figure 9-1F-3-E (On-Site Directional Sign).
Off-site directional sign:	A sign giving directions to businesses, sales offices, real estate sales locations, points of interest, or other uses found to be similar by the director, that are located on a different property, but with no advertising copy. See Figure 9-1F-3-F (Off-Site Directional Sign). See section 9-1F-9 (Specific Types of Permanent Signs).

 

Figure 9-1F-3-D - Double- faced Sign

Figure 9-1F-3-E - One-site Directional Sign

Figure 9-1F-3-F - Off-site Directional Sign

 

DIRECTOR:	The director of the city's community development department, or the director's designee.
DIRECTORY SIGN:	A sign listing the tenants or occupants of a building or building complex.
DISPLAY SURFACE:	The area made available by the sign structure for the purpose of displaying the advertising message.
DRIVE-THROUGH BOARD:	A permanently mounted sign located adjacent to a drive-through lane and typically located next to or preceding the drive-through window.
DOUBLE-FACED SIGN:	A sign designed with the intent of providing copy (i.e., message) on both sides. See Figure 9-1F-3-D (Double-Faced Sign).
ELECTION SIGN:	A sign of a non-commercial nature made of corrugated plastic, paper, cardboard, or other temporary materials present forty-five (45) days before an election and seven (7) days after.
EMBEDDED PLAQUE/SIGN:	Commemorative or decorative plaques, dates of construction, and the like when carved in stone, concrete, or similar material or made of bronze, aluminum, or other similar durable material.
ESTABLISHMENT:	A legal, nonresidential use of land to conduct a commercial or noncommercial activity. By way of example and not limitation, "establishment" includes stores, offices, places of assembly, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, etc., but does not include home-based occupations or hobbies.
FAÇADE:	The entire building elevation, including the parapet.
FACE OF SIGN:	The area of a sign on which the copy (i.e., message) is placed.
FASCIA:	Typically, the smooth wall surface between a window and the parapet.
FLAG:	A rectangular or square piece of fabric generally with a height to width ratio ranging between one (1) to one (1) to one (1) to two (2) that is hung from a vertical or nearly vertical pole.
FLASHING SIGN:	A sign that displays an intermittent or sequential flashing light source.
FREESTANDING SIGN:	A sign supported permanently upon the ground by a structure and not attached to a building. This includes monument signs and pylon signs. See "Monument Sign" and "Pylon Sign." See Figure 9-1F-3-G (Types of Freestanding Signs).

 

Figure 9-1F-3-G - Types of Freestanding Signs

 

FRONTAGE:
Building frontage:	The building elevation that fronts on a street, alley, driveway, parking area, pedestrian plaza, walkway, courtyard, or arcade. See Figure 9-1F-3-H (Example of Building Frontages).
Building frontage, primary:	A building elevation that provides the primary source of pedestrian access to the structure.
Building frontage, rear:	A building elevation that provides public entrance opposite of the primary building frontage.
Building frontage, secondary:	A building elevation that provides the secondary source of pedestrian access to the structure.
Tenant frontage:	That portion of a multi- tenant building facade that is devoted to a single tenant.

 

Figure 9-1F-3-H - Example of building frontages

 

HOLIDAY WINDOW SIGN:	Signs and decorations painted on or applied to windows pertaining to holidays and seasonal events.
ILLEGAL SIGN:	A sign installed without the prior issuance of a sign permit; or that is not in compliance with this article; or that is not a legal nonconforming sign.
ILLUMINATED SIGN:	A sign lighted with an artificial light source for the purpose of decorating, enhancing, outlining, accentuating, or brightening the sign area.
EXTERNALLY ILLUMINATED SIGN:	A sign illuminated from an exterior light source.
INDIRECTLY ILLUMINATED SIGN:	A sign whose illumination is derived entirely from an external artificial source that is arranged to illuminate the sign area only.
INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED SIGN:	A sign illuminated from an interior light source contained within the sign cabinet or individual letter, such as a luminous tube sign or LED (light-emitting diode) sign.
INCIDENTAL RESIDENTIAL SIGN:	A sign in a single-family or multi-family zone other than election signs, real estate signs, or garage or yard sale signs no more than one (1) square feet in size and made of permanent or durable materials, such as hard plastic designed for outdoor use, corrugate plastic, or metal.
INFLATED DISPLAY SIGN:	A three-dimensional object filled or activated by moving or non-moving air or other gas, located, attached, or tethered to the ground, site, merchandise, structure, or roof and used as a sign or to attract attention. This definition does not include inflated gymnasium-type jumping or sliding devices used temporarily for a non-advertising activity (e.g., children's parties, etc.).
LOGO:	An established trademark or symbol associated with a business or corporation.
LUMINOUS TUBE SIGNS:	A sign that consists of or is illuminated by exposed electrically charged gas-filled tubing (e.g., neon and argon signs) or by fiber optics.
MANSARD ROOF:	A four-sided roof characterized by two (2) slopes on each of its sides with the lower slope at a steeper angle than the upper.
MARQUEE:	A permanent roofed structure attached to and supported by the building and customarily projecting over public property.
MARQUEE/UNDER CANOPY SIGN:	An accessory sign attached to a marquee or canopy.
MONUMENT SIGN:	A freestanding sign, the structure of which is supported from finished grade, giving the appearance of having a solid base. See "Freestanding Sign."
MOVING SIGN:	A sign which has an actual or apparent moving, revolving, or rotating part, activated by electrical, mechanical or other devices or by wind movement. For the purposes of this article, time and temperature displays, and traditional barber poles are not considered moving signs.
MURAL:	An artistic image or design painted or affixed to the exterior surface of a wall.
NONCONFORMING SIGNS:
Legal nonconforming sign:	A legal sign that lawfully existed (i.e., complied with all the applicable regulations and had all the required permits) before the effective date of this article or amendment thereto, and that does not comply with the minimum sign regulations of this article. This also includes legal signs lawfully located on sites annexed into the city after the adoption of this article.
Illegal nonconforming sign:	See section 9-1F-19 (Illegal Signs).
NONCOMMERCIAL MESSAGE:	A sign message that is not commercial in nature. See "Commercial Message" above. This definition shall automatically incorporate court rulings defining the term "noncommercial speech."
OFF-SITE SIGN:	A sign erected on a parcel that is not the location of the business or use that the sign is advertising. See also "Directional Sign."
OFF-SITE MESSAGE:	A message on a sign that advertises a business, accommodation, service, or activity not provided on the premises on which the sign is located. This classification includes billboards. The off-site/on- site distinction applies only to commercial messages.
ON-SITE MESSAGE:	A message on a sign that advertises a business, accommodation, service, or activity provided on the premises on which the sign is located. The off-site/on-site distinction applies only to commercial messages.
PAINTED WALL SIGN:	A sign painted directly onto a building surface without use of a face board (see also mural).
PARAPET:	The extension of a false front or wall above a roofline.
PEDESTRIAN-ORIENTED SIGN:	A sign that is designed for and directed toward pedestrians so that the pedestrians can easily and comfortably read the sign as they approach and stand adjacent to it. A pedestrian-oriented sign is usually read from fifteen (15) to twenty (20) feet.
PERMANENT SIGN:	A sign designed with durable materials and intended to be used in excess of sixty (60) days per calendar year.
POLE SIGN:	A sign that is supported by a single pole or similar support structure so that the bottom edge of the sign is one foot (1') or more above grade.
PORTABLE SIGN:	Any sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently affixed to the ground or to a structure or building.
PROJECTING SIGN:	A sign that projects from and is supported by a wall of a building. See Figure 9-1F-3-I (Projecting Sign). See also "Blade/Bracket Sign."

 

Figure 9-1F-3-I - Projecting/Blade/Bracket Sign

 

PROJECTION:	The distance by which a sign extends from the building it is supported by.
PUBLIC SERVICE SIGN:	Signs of utilities or other publicly regulated service providers indicating danger or similar aids to service or safety, including official advisory and signal flags.
RACEWAY:	A channel for protecting and holding electrical wires and cables, typically a rectangular metal box for the electrical components of an illuminated sign consisting of channel letters. Pre-wired channel letters are mounted to the raceway, which in turn is mounted to a building wall. One (1) set of wiring is then connected to the main circuit. The rectangular box (raceway) sets behind the attached letters and is not designed as an architectural feature. See Figure 9-1F-3-J (Electrical Raceway with Channel Letter).

 

Figure 9-1F-3-J Electrical Raceway with Channel letter

 

REAL ESTATE SIGN:	A temporary, on-site sign which is installed at a time corresponding to the sale or lease of a unit.
ROOF LINE:	The top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is higher, excluding any mansards, cupolas, chimneys, or minor projections.
ROOF SIGN:	A sign that is wholly erected, constructed, or placed on top of the roof of a structure including a mansard roof, and that is partially or totally supported by the structure.
SERVICE STATION/REFUELING STATION:	For purposes of this article, a commercial facility that sells gasoline, diesel, or alternative fuel for the on-site fueling of individual vehicles, with or without service-related facilities.
SIGN:	Any device, fixture, placard, or structure-including its component parts-that draws attention to an object, product, place, activity, opinion, person, establishment, institution, organization, or place of business, or that identifies or promotes the interests of any person and that is to be viewed from any public street, road, highway, right-of-way or parking area.

 

Figure 9-1F-3-K Examples of Sign Types

 

	The following are not within the definition of "Sign" for regulatory purposes of this article: a. Architectural Features: Decorative or architectural features of buildings (not including lettering, logos, trademarks, or moving parts). b. Fireworks And Other Lights: The legal use of fireworks, spotlights, candles and artificial lighting not otherwise regulated by this article. c. Interior Signs: Signs or other visual communicative devices that are located entirely within a building or other enclosed structure and are not visible from the exterior thereof or located at least five feet (5') inward from the interior face of the window, provided the building or enclosed structure is otherwise legal. d. Legally Required Information: Public notices, registration, or licensing information, etc. e. Manufacturers’ Marks: Marks on tangible products that identify the maker, seller, provider, or product, and that customarily remain attached to the product even after sale. f. Murals: located on properties with a General Plan Land Use Designation of Institutional or Open Space. g. Symbols Embedded In Architecture: Symbols of noncommercial organizations or concepts including, but not limited to religious or political symbols, when they are permanently integrated into the structure or a permanent building that is otherwise legal; also includes foundation stones, corner stones, and similar devices.
SIGN AREA:	See section 9-1F-7-D (Standards for All Types of Sign Types).
SIGN HEIGHT:	See section 9-1F-7-E (Standards for All Types of Sign Types).
SIGN PROGRAM:	See section 9-1F-14 (Comprehensive Sign Program).
SIGN STRUCTURE:	The sign, and the supports, uprights, braces, and framework of the sign.
TEMPORARY SIGN:	A sign, banner, pennant, valance, or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, cardboard, wall board, or other light nondurable materials, with or without frames, designed to be displayed for a limited period. Typically displayed by an establishment to promote a sale, new product line, management change, service, liquidation sales, going-out-of-business sales, person running for public office, and similar special activities or events. See Figures 9-1F-3-L and 9-1F-3M (Temporary Signs).

 

Figure 9-1F-3-L Temporary Sign

Figure 9-1F-3-M Temporary Window Sign

 

TIME/TEMPERATURE SIGN:	An electronic or mecha nical device that shows time and/or temperature but contains no busine ss identification or advertising.
TRADEMARK:	A word, name or symbol which, with a distinctive type or letter style is associated with a business or business entity in the conduct of business.
VEHICLE SIGN:	A sign painted, affixed, or placed upon a vehicle or trailer and that vehicle or trailer's only function is to act as an advertising display, not as a normal business delivery or service vehicle.

 

Figure 9-1F-3-N Wall Mounted Sign

 

WALL-MOUNTED SIGN:	A sign attached to, erected against, or fastened to a wall of a building or structure, the face of which is in a single plane parallel to the plane of the building wall to which the sign is attached or fastened. See Figure 9-1F-3-N (Wall-Mounted Sign.)
WINDOW SIGN:	Any sign, whether or not temporary in nature, which is applied or attached to a window, or located within five feet (5') of the inside of a window in a manner that it is visible from the exterior of the structure. (Ord. 19-1036; amd. Ord. 22-1060; Ord. 23-1069)

 

9-1F-4: GENERAL PROVISIONS:

9-1F-5: EXEMPT SIGNS:

9-1F-6: PROHIBITED SIGNS:

9-1F-7: STANDARDS FOR ALL TYPES OF SIGN TYPES:

A.   Compliance Required: No person shall erect, re-erect, construct, maintain, enlarge, alter, change copy, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, or equip any sign or sign structure, or paint a new wall- mounted sign, in the city, or cause or permit the same to be done, contrary to, or in violation of, any provision of this article.

B.   Uncertainty of Article Provisions: The director shall have the authority to interpret the provisions of this article. The director may instead refer the request for interpretation to the planning commission in compliance with section 9-1A-10 (Director Interpretation).

C.   Determination of Sign Location:

   1.   The maximum allowed sign area for a sign is calculated by first determining if the sign is to be placed on a "Primary" or "Secondary" Frontage (as defined in this article) and then referring to Section 9-1F-9 (Specific Types of Permanent Signs).

   2.   In cases where a building has more than one (1) street frontage, the building frontage with the primary business entrance shall be considered the primary building frontage (e.g., an entrance facing a courtyard). For multi-tenant buildings, ground-floor tenants may have their primary building frontage determined independently by the director for the rest of the building based upon this rule.

D.   Measurement of Sign Area:

   1.   The surface area of a sign shall be calculated by enclosing the extreme limits of all framing, emblem, logo, representation, letters applied to the building without a distinctive background (e.g., channel letters), or other display within a single continuous perimeter composed of the smallest square, circle, rectangle, triangle or combination thereof with no more than eight lines. See Figure 9-1F-5-B (Sign Area Measurement).

   2.   For an awning or canopy sign, sign copy that is applied to an awning or canopy shall be computed at one hundred percent (100%) of the area within a single rectangle enveloping the sign copy.

   3.   For a freestanding sign, the sign area shall include the frame, if any, but shall not include:

      a.   A pole or other structural support unless the pole or structural support is illuminated or otherwise designed to constitute a display device, or a part of a display device. See Figure 9-1F-5-A (Calculation of Freestanding Sign Area).

      b.    Features that are not an integral part of the sign (i.e., landscaping). See Figure 9-1F-5-A (Calculation of Freestanding Sign Area).

Figure 9-1F-5-A Calculation of Freestanding Sign Area

   4.   Only one (1) face of a double-faced sign shall be counted in computing the allowed area of the sign. Double- faced (back-to-back) signs shall be regarded as a single sign when the sign is mounted on a single structure, and the distance between each sign face does not exceed two feet (2') at any point. If the sign is multi-faced (e.g., more than two (2) sides), then each face shall be counted in computing the allowed area of the sign.

   5.   Where a sign consists of one (1) or more three (3)-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks), the sign area shall be measured as their maximum projection upon a vertical plane, as viewed from a position in the public right-of- way which produces the largest visual projection. See Figure 9-1F-5-C (Sign Area Measurement for Three-Dim ensional Objects). Signs may not contain three-dime nsional objects that exceed a projection of six inches (6") from the sign face.

Figure 9-1F-5-B Sign Area Measurement

E.   Me asurement of Sign Height: The height of a sign shall be measured from the highest part of the sign, including any decorative features, to the height of the adjoining grade directly beneath the sign.

Figure 9-1F-5-C Sign Area Measurement For Three Dimensional Objects

F.   Maximum Character Height: The maximum height of any letter, text, logo, or symbol shall be thirty-six inches (36").

G.   Sign Construction Materials: All signs that are not temporary signs shall be constructed of permanent materials, including but not limited to metal, wood, acrylic, or other comparable durable weatherproof materials. No material more combustible than treated wood shall be used in the construction of any permanent sign.

H.   Consistent Design: Where multiple signs are proposed, all signs shall be consistent in the type of construction material, letter size and style, and support method. Signs shall be designed to complement the building to which they are related using a similar scale, color, material and/or other design element.

Figure 9-1F-5-D Example of Appropriate Sign Proportion and Rhythm

I.   Sign Proportion and Rhythm: Signs shall be in general proportion to the lease space or building to which they are related, with lettering and logos that occupy no more than seventy-five percent (75%) of the sign face area. See Figure 9-1F-5-D (Example of Appropriate Sign Proportion and Rhythm).

J.   Illuminated Signs and Lights: The following standards shall apply to all illuminated signs.

   1.   Sign illumination shall not interfere with the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties, create a public nuisance, or create public safety hazards. Exterior light sources shall be shielded from view and directed to illuminate only the sign face.

   2.   Signs may be internally or externally illuminated. Internal illumination is allowed only if the sign background is opaque and the only portion of the sign that appears as illuminated is the actual lettering and registered trademark or logo.

   3.   The light from an illuminated sign shall not be of an intensity or brightness or directed in a manner that will create a negative impact on residential properties in direct line of sight to the sign.

   4.   Colored lights shall not be used at a location or in a manner so as to be confused or construed as traffic control devices.

   5.   Reflective-type bulbs and incandescent lamps that exceed fifteen (15) watts shall not be used on the exterior surface of signs so that the face of the bulb or lamp is exposed to a public right-of-way or adjacent property.

   6.   Light sources shall utilize energy-efficient fixtures to the greatest extent possible.

K.   Sign Removal or Replacement: When a sign is removed, all brackets, poles, and other structural elements that supported the sign shall also be removed. For wall-mounted signs, affected building surfaces shall be restored to match the finish of the building, with a sign wiring removed and all holes and other surface blemishes appropriately patched and finished (i.e., painted), subject to the approval of the director.

L.   Fire Department or Law Enforcement Requirements: Building-mounted addresses required by the Fire Chief or County Sheriff shall not be counted as signs or sign area in compliance with Section 9-1F-5 (Exempt Signs). (Ord. 19-1036)

9-1F-8: PERMANENT SIGNS BY ZONE - LOCATIONS AND DESIGN REQUIREMENTS:

9-1F-9: SPECIFIC TYPES OF PERMANENT SIGNS:

This section provides additional standards for specific types of permanent signs to be used in combination with the requirements of Section 9-1F-8 (Permanent Signs by Zone - Locations and Design Requirements).

A.    Awning and Canopy Signs:

   1.   Sign Location:

      a.   Awning signs shall be allowed for first and second story nonresidential occupancies only.

      b.   Awning signs shall not be allowed above the second story.

      c.   Signs shall be applied on the outer face of and flat against the awning surface. In the case of a barrel shaped (curved) awning, signs shall not occupy more than sixty percent (60%) of the bottom twelve inches (12") of the awning. In no event shall a sign cover more than fifty percent (50%) of an awning or canopy.

      d.   A minimum of seven feet (7') of clearance shall be provided between the lowest part of an awning and adjoining curb height below. See Figure 9-1F-9-A (Height of Awning).

   2.   Sign Design:

      a.   The design and construction of awning signs shall be compatible with the predominant architectural and visual elements of the structure to which they are attached.

      b.   Awnings shall conform to the size and shape of the window or door they are above.

      c.   Overly large awnings and canopies with unusual shapes designed to provide additional sign area are not allowed.

   3.   Lighting: Lighting of awning signs is permitted, if lighting does not point upwards or into public right-of-way.

   4.   Temporary Sign: Only permanent signs that are an integral part of the awning shall be allowed. Temporary signs shall not be placed on awnings or canopies.

Figure 9-1F-9-A Height of Awning

Awning with valance and sloping plane

Wrap-around awning

Awning combined with a Wall-Mounted Sign

Awning customized to architectural features

B.   Blade/Bracket Signs:

   1.   Sign Area: Double-faced projecting signs shall be considered a single-face sign for the purpose of calculating sign area.

   2.   Sign Location:

      a.   Signs may be placed perpendicular to the building façade (projecting) near the building entrance.

      b.   For a building on a corner lot, blade signs are encouraged to be located on the corner or face of the building on the street corner. Corner mounted blade signs should be mounted at a forty-five (45)-degree horizontal angle so that its two (2) sides are equally visible from both streets.

   3.   Sign Design:

      a.    Supporting arms or frames for projecting signs shall be of a decorative design compatible with the design of the sign.

      b.    Blade signs shall project no more than four feet (4') from the face of the building wall upon which the sign is mounted.

      c.    Support wires may be used for lateral support when fully within the horizontal plane of the sign. Any angle iron or secondary support, other than support wires, shall be enclosed in a form constructed of impermeable material.

C.   Murals: Murals may only be installed and maintained by approval of the planning commission. Murals may only be in on a parcel designated by the General Plan as Institutional or Open Space. The Planning Commission shall have the authority to review and approve murals in compliance with this article.

Simple Blade Sign under Awning

Architectural Blade Sign

Blade Sign with iron mount Creative Blade Sign

Blade Sign with iron mount

Hanging Blade Sign

D.   Cabinet Signs (Wall-Mounted or Monument):

   1.   Where Allowed: New cabinet signs are not permitted. However, the retrofit and reuse of an existing, legally established cabinet sign for a new use or business is permitted subject to the requirements of Subsection C.

   2.   Sign Lighting:

      a.    Cabinet signs may only be internally illuminated. No exposed lighting such as neon tubing, LED lighting, light bulb arrangement or similar is allowed.

      b.   The light source of illuminated cabinet signs shall not be visible from or cast into the right-of- way nor cause glare hazards to passersby or adjacent properties.

      c.   Light sources shall not be mounted to any part of the sign.

   3.   Sign Design:

      a.   Only translucent letter faces, reverse lit channel letters, or push-through acrylic letters and images are allowed. The background of the cabinet sign must be opaque, non-transparent.

      b.   Where a cabinet sign is being retrofitted for reuse and the cabinet border is to be replaced, such border shall consist of a color other than white that is complementary to the sign face and/or a building to which it may be attached.

E.   Changeable Copy Sign (Electronic):

   1.   Where Allowed:

      a.   Electronic changeable copy signs are only permitted subject to approval of a major sign permit, and shall be located on a permitted monument or marquee sign.

      b.   The number of changeable copy signs is limited to one (1) per property.

      c.   Changeable copy signs are limited to elementary, middle, junior high, or high schools, assembly uses, theaters, and city facilities.

   2.   Sign Display:

      a.   Sign images shall not change more often than every eight (8) seconds, and transitions between images shall not exceed one (1) second.

      b.   The images shall change instantaneously, with no special effects or video.

      c.   All the messages conveyed by the sign shall display static messages with no animation, or effects simulating animation including but not limited to dissolving, fading, scrolling, traveling, flashing, spinning, revolving, and shaking.

      d.   The maximum square footage of the portion of a monument or marquee sign dedicated to changeable copy is limited to fifty percent (50%) of the sign permitted.

      e.   The sign shall be equipped with photosensitive equipment that is programmed to automatically adjust the brightness and contrast of the sign. The maximum brightness levels for the sign shall not exceed five thousand (5000) nits when measured from the sign face during daytime, and five hundred (500) nits when measured from the sign face at night.

   3.   Sign Design:

      a.   Signs shall have a photometric sensor that will adjust the intensity of the sign for daytime and nighttime viewing. The nighttime intensity shall be limited to three tenths (0.3)-foot candles (over ambient levels) as measured at a height of five feet (5') above the ground and between one hundred fifty (150) and three hundred fifty (350) feet from the sign under consideration, depending on the size of the sign, and aimed at the sign.

      b.   The city may modify or further restrict the intensity of any electronic changeable copy sign should the lighting create a distraction to drivers.

      c.    Each sign structure must, always, include a facing of proper dimensions to conceal back bracing and framework of structural members and/or any electrical equipment. During periods of repair or alteration such facing may be removed for a maximum period of forty-eight (48) consecutive hours.

Cabinet Sign with push-through letters

Cabinet Sign with push-through letter

Changeable Copy Sign with electronic reader board

Changeable Copy Sign with electronic reader board

F.   Changeable Copy Sign (Manual):

   1.   Where Allowed:

      a.    New manual changeable copy signs are only permitted as an improvement to an existing, non-conforming changeable copy sign or in conjunction with a new public assembly use. Such signs shall require approval of a minor sign permit.

      b.   The number of changeable copy signs is limited to one (1) per property.

   2.   Sign Display:

      a.   Changeable copy displays may be installed on freestanding, marquee, monument, and wall-mounted signs. The area of the changeable copy display shall be counted toward the allowable sign area for the type of sign up on which the changeable copy is installed.

      b.   Maximum size of changeable copy area is six (6) square feet.

   3.   Sign Design Compatible: The design and construction of manual changeable copy signs shall be compatible with the predominant architectural and visual elements of the structure for which the signs are intended.

   4.   Lighting: Manual changeable copy signs shall not be internally lit unless they use opaque inserts with translucent copy; blank opaque inserts that are the same color as the opaque portions of the copy are used over all areas of the sign where copy is not present; and the opaque portion of the copy is the same color.

G.   Channel Letter Signs (Wall-Mounted):

   1.   Sign Design:

      a.   Only translucent letter faces, reverse lit channel letters, or push-through acrylic letters are allowed. Foam and vinyl letters are not allowed.

      b.   Exposed raceways are prohibited unless necessitated by structural features and subject to a determination by the director that unique conditions exist.

   2.   Sign Lighting:   

      a.   Channel letter signs may only be internally illuminated. No open face channel letters are allowed where the method of illumination such as neon tubing, LED lighting, light bulb arrangement or similar is exposed.

      b.   The light source of illuminated channel letter signs shall not be visible from or cast into the right-of-way nor cause glare hazards to passersby or adjacent properties.

      c.   Light sources shall not be mounted to any part of the sign.

H.   Directional Signs:

   1.   Sign Design: Maximum size of sign to be determined through Minor Site Plan Review.

   2.   Sign Location: Maximum size of sign to be determined through Minor Site Plan Review.

   3.   Number of Signs: Maximum size of sign to be determined through Minor Site Plan Review.

Changeable Copy Sign with manual reader board

Off-Site Directional Sign

Push-through Channel Letter Sign (Wall-Mounted)

On-Site Directional Sign

Reverse lit Channel Letter Sign (Wall-Mounted)

I.   Embedded Plaque Signs:

   1.   Sign Area: Maximum size of sign to be determined though Minor Site Plan Review.

   2.   Sign Location: Signs shall be located on private property.

   3.   Sign Design: Signs shall be flush and permanently embedded in the ground.

J.   Luminous Tube Signs (Exterior):

   1.   Sign Area: The borders of luminous tubes shall be considered part of a sign for purposes of calculating the maximum allowable sign area.

   2.   Sign Design:

      a.   Luminous tube lighting shall be listed with UL (Underwriters Laboratories).

      b.   Tubing shall not exceed one-half inch (1/2") in diameter.

      c.   Luminous tubes shall not be combined with any reflective materials (e.g., mirrors, polished metal, highly glazed tiles, or other similar materials).

      d.   Luminous tube lighting that surrounds a window, door, or similar element or that is installed along roofs or that outlines buildings shall be prohibited.

   3.   Sign Lighting:   

      a.   Luminous tube lighting adjacent to residential uses shall not exceed one-half (1/2) foot-candle measured at the residential lot line.

      b.   Signs shall have thirty (30) milliamps per circuit maximum and a dimmer to reduce brightness.

K.   Mansard Roof Signs:

   1.   Sign Location:

      a.   For signs placed on mansard style roofs, signs placed on a wall of a structure may not project above the eave line of a mansard roof a distance greater than twenty percent (20%) of the distance between the ground level and the top of mansard roof.

      b.    Signs placed on a mansard roof may not project above the top of the roof.

Mansard Roof Sign Location

Tile Embedded Plaque Sign

Exterior Luminous Tube Sign

Metal Embedded Plaque Sign

LED Sign

L.   Marquee Signs:

   1.   Sign Design:

      a.    Marquee signs shall only be attached to marquees having a vertical plane angle less than twenty (20) degrees.

      b.   No marquee sign shall extend more than two feet (2') above any marquee to which it is attached.

      c.   Marquee signs shall not extend beyond the ends or extremities of the marquee to which they are attached except as provided above.

      d.   Marquee signs shall be mounted substantially parallel with the face of the marquee.

   2.   Sign Lighting:

      a.   Any lighting of marquee signs shall follow the Electrical Code and shall not cause disturbing glare onto any adjacent areas due to excessive brightness or method of illumination.

      b.   Any devices or structures used in conjunction with direct illumination of marquee signs shall either be concealed from general view, recessed into a building or structure, or function as decorative element in keeping with the character of the sign and the building to which it is attached.

      c.   The direct illumination of marquee signs shall be subject to approval by the director.

   3.   Where Permitted:

      a.   Only permitted for theaters in a non-residential zone.

      b.   Counted towards allowable sign area.

M.   Monument Signs:

   1.   Sign Location:

      a.   There shall be a minimum of fifty feet (50') between.

      b.   Monument Signs either on the same site or on adjoining sites to ensure adequate visibility for all signs.

      c.   Monument Signs shall be a minimum of fifty feet (50') from a lot line of any residentially zoned property.

      d.   Monument Signs shall be set back at least five feet (5') from any public right-of-way, building, on-site driveway, or on-site vehicle circulation area.

      e.   The maximum width of a monument sign shall be as follows:

         (1)   For lots less than forty feet (40') in width the maximum width is four feet, six inches (4' 6").

         (2)   For lots forty-one (41) feet to one hundred (100) feet in width the maximum width is six feet (6').

         (3)   For lots greater than one hundred feet (100') in width the maximum width of the sign shall be no more than one and one-half (1.5) time the height of the sign if the sign is less than five feet (5') in height. If the sign is five feet (5') or more in height, the maximum width shall not exceed seventy-five hundredths (.75) times the height of the sign.

   2.   Sign Design:

      a.   The minimum letter size shall be nine inches (9"). Sign copy shall not be located closer than one-half (1/2) letter height to the sign edge or other line of copy.

      b.   Where there is a center name or building identification that is separate from the primary tenant, the center name or building identification shall be provided and predominantly displayed on the primary monument sign and shall be counted towards the allowable sign area. This center name or identification sign should be incorporated as a permanent feature of the monument sign.

      c.   Monument signs shall contain an address plate identifying the site address or range of addresses of the subject property. Numbers shall be a minimum of five inches (5") in height and shall be clearly visible from the public right-of-way. Address plates shall not be calculated against the allowed sign area.

      d.   Individual channel letters on a background, reverse channel letters, or push-through acrylic letter designs are preferred.

   3.    Landscaping: Landscaping with automatic irrigation shall be provided at the base of the supporting structure equal to twice the area of one face of the sign or seventy-five (75) square feet, whichever is greater. For example, forty (40) square feet of sign area equals eighty (80) square feet of landscaped area. The director may modify this requirement on a case-by-case basis to consider existing conditions.

Marquee Sign

Monument Sign with channel letters

Pedestrian-scale Monument Sign

Monument Sign with push-through letters

N.   Window Signs - Permanent:

   1.   Sign Dimensions: Interior signs within five feet (5') of a storefront window shall be counted as window signs for the purpose of calculating total sign area and number of signs.

   2.   Sign Location: Signs shall be allowed only on windows located on the ground floor and second story of either a designated primary or secondary building frontage. Window signs shall not be allowed above the second story.

   3.   Permit Requirements: Permanent LED/luminous tube window signs may be allowed through a minor sign permit.

Permanent Window Sign

Permanent luminous tube Window Sign

Permanent Window Sign

Permanent Window Sign

O.   Wall-Mounted Signs:

   1.   Sign Letter Dimensions: The letter height of a secondary wall-mounted sign shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the letter height of a primary wall-mounted sign (e.g., if letters on primary sign are eighteen inches (18") high, then letters on accessory wall-mounted sign cannot exceed nine inches (9") in height).

   2.   Sign Location:

      a.   Signs shall be located only on a designated building frontage and shall not extend above an eave or parapet, or above or below a fascia on which they are located. See Figure 9-1F-9-0-1 (Appropriate Wall-Mounted Sign Location).

      b.   Signs located on adjacent walls of the same building (e.g., on a primary frontage wall and secondary frontage wall) shall be separated by a minimum distance of thirty feet (30') measured along the exterior walls of the building.

      c.   Signs on primary or secondary frontages shall be located within the middle fifty percent (50%) of the building or tenant frontage measured from lease line to lease line. The director may modify this requirement where it can be clearly demonstrated that it severely limits proper sign placement. See Figure 9-1F-9-0-1 (Wall-Mounted Sign Location on Building Frontage).

   3.   Sign Design:

      a.   Wall-mounted signs may not be painted directly on a wall, unless through an approved comprehensive sign program, or as permitted through Section 9-1F-10 (Iconic Signs).

      b.   Electrical raceways shall be prohibited unless the director determines that unique circumstances prevent an alternative design. Where such circumstances are found to exist, the electrical raceways shall be integrated with the overall design of the sign.

      c.   Signs shall be placed flat against the wall and shall not project from the wall more than required for normal construction purposes and in no case more than twelve inches (12").

   4.   Lighting:

      a.   Signs may be either internally or externally illuminated.

Figure 9-1F-9-O-1 Appropriate Wall-mounted Sign Location on Building Frontage

Wall-Mounted Sign with push-through metal letters

Wall-Mounted Sign with push-through acrylic letters

Wall-Mounted Sign with push-through metal letters and approved painted sign

Wall-Mounted Signs on primary and secondary building frontages

(Ord. 19-1036; amd. Ord. 22-1060)