Aliso Viejo Municipal Code Ch. 15.34 SIGNS1

Sections:

15.34.010 Purpose and intent.

15.34.020 Enforcement authority.

15.34.030 Inventory of illegal and abandoned signs.

15.34.040 Abatement of illegal and abandoned signs.

15.34.050 Penalty for violation.

15.34.060 General requirements.

15.34.070 Sign permits.

15.34.080 Master sign programs.

15.34.090 Nonconforming signs and amortization.

15.34.100 Computation of sign area.

15.34.110 Appeals.

15.34.120 Permanent signs in nonresidential districts.

15.34.130 Permanent signs in residential districts.

15.34.140 Temporary signs in all districts.

15.34.150 Exempt signs.

15.34.160 Substitution of sign message.

15.34.170 Prohibited signs.

A. Statement. The purpose of this chapter is to establish standards for the uniform regulation of signs and sign structures in order to maintain and improve the quality of the visual environment within the city while providing for the effective identification of businesses and other activities. The procedures and regulations of this chapter are intended to:

1. Ensure that signs erected within the city are compatible with their surroundings and are in keeping with the goals and objectives of the general plan.

2. Aid in the identification of properties, land uses and businesses.

3. Promote commerce, traffic safety, and community identity while also promoting and enhancing the quality of the visual environment of the city.

4. Protect and enhance property values.

5. Lessen the objectionable effects of competition in the placement and size of signs.

6. Reduce hazards to motorists and pedestrians.

7. Avoid visual clutter.

8. Provide procedures and standards to control the location, size, type, number, and all other matters pertaining to signs within the city. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A)].

The planning director is hereby authorized and directed to enforce all provisions of this chapter in accordance with the enforcement provisions of the municipal code. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.030].

After the adoption of this chapter, the director may conduct an inventory and identification of all illegal or abandoned signs within the city.

The city may impose reasonable fees upon all owners or lessees of on-premises business advertising displays for the purpose of covering its actual costs of inventorying and identifying illegal or abandoned advertising displays within the city. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.040].

A. Every illegal or abandoned sign identified in the inventory required by AVMC 15.34.030 and every illegal or abandoned sign hereafter identified shall be deemed to constitute a public nuisance.

B. The director is authorized to abate all illegal or abandoned signs pursuant to the procedures set out in this code and applicable provisions of the California Business and Professions Code.

C. An illegal sign posted in the public right-of-way or upon public property may be removed by the director or by a city code enforcement officer. Such a sign shall be retained at City Hall for a period of not less than three working days, during which time the sign may be retrieved by the sign owner upon the payment of a fee established by resolution of the city council to cover the city’s cost of removal and retention of such signs. Thereafter, any unclaimed signs shall be destroyed or discarded. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.050].

Cross-reference: nuisances, AVMC 8.24.010.

A. Any person who violates any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a violation may be prosecuted through the civil citation procedures set out in this municipal code.

B. Each day a violation of this chapter is committed or continues is a separate offense. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.060].

Cross-reference: violations and penalties generally, Chapter 1.06 AVMC.

A. Permitted Permanent Signs. Permanent signs may be permitted pursuant to the permit procedures set out in this chapter and shall be governed by the standards set out for each category of sign. In addition to such standards, consideration shall be given to building setbacks, landscaping, visibility of the sign on the site, and the proposed sign’s relationship to the overall appearance of the property and to the surrounding neighborhood. Compatible design, simplicity, and readability shall also be used as guidelines for sign approval. In calculating the total number and square footage of signs permitted, both commercial and noncommercial signs shall be counted.

B. Permission of Property Owner Required. No person shall erect or cause to be erected any sign upon the property of another without the express written approval of the owner of such property. All such signs shall comply with the size and square footage limitations contained within this chapter and shall be removed promptly upon the request of the property owner or occupant.

C. No Off-Premises Signs. All signs shall be located on the same premises as the land use or activity identified by the sign unless expressly permitted to be off-premises in this chapter.

D. Rules on Sign Placement.

1. Signs and Rights-of-Way. Unless expressly permitted in this chapter or by sign exception, freestanding signs shall not be located: (a) within, over, or across a public right-of-way; (b) within five feet of a street right-of-way or (c) within a corner cutoff area identified in AVMC 15.14.030 and 15.22.030.

2. Safety and Traffic Flow. No sign shall be located in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision and flow of pedestrian and vehicular traffic as illustrated in AVMC 15.14.030(F) and 15.22.030(D).

3. Utility Lines. No sign shall be located closer to overhead utility lines than the distance prescribed by California law or by the rules promulgated by agencies of the state or by the applicable public utility.

E. Maintenance Required. All signs permitted pursuant to this chapter shall be maintained in good repair, functioning properly, and free from all defects, including, but not limited to, cracking, rusting, and peeling. Signs not so maintained shall be deemed a public nuisance and may be abated pursuant to the applicable provisions of this municipal code.

F. Electrical Code and Exposed Conduits. All electrical signs shall be listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or other recognized testing agency and shall be installed in accordance with the installation instructions and with the California Electrical Code adopted by the city. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2012-146 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 2011-136 §§ 22, 23; Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.070].

Cross-references: nuisances, AVMC 8.24.010; adoption of California Electrical Code, AVMC 13.02.010; sight distances at residential intersections, alleys and driveways, AVMC 15.14.030; sight distances at nonresidential intersections, alleys and driveways, AVMC 15.22.030.

A. Sign Permit Required. A sign permit shall be required prior to the placement, movement, erection, reconstruction, alteration or display of any sign permitted pursuant to this chapter unless expressly exempted by this chapter. All signs, except where expressly exempt, shall conform to the current California Building and Electrical Codes as adopted by the city of Aliso Viejo.

B. Sign Permit Applications. Applications for sign permits shall be filed with the planning department on forms prescribed by the planning director, together with: (1) all maps, plans, documents and other materials required by the director, and (2) all required fees and deposits per Chapter 15.90 AVMC. The director shall provide the necessary forms plus written filing instructions specifying all application materials required to any requesting person at no charge. Sign permits may be combined with associated building or electrical permit forms.

C. Sign Permit Review. Sign permits shall be reviewed ministerially by the planning director pursuant to AVMC 15.70.030. However, the director may refer the permit application to the city council for review if the director determines on a case-by-case basis that the public interest would be served by such referral. Such referrals shall be made within 10 days of determination that the sign permit application is complete pursuant to subsection (B) of this section. Actions by the director may be appealed pursuant to AVMC 15.70.080. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2012-146 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 2012-141 § 19; Ord. 2012-140 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.080].

A. Purpose. The purpose of a master sign program is to encourage creative, coordinated, innovative, and attractive sign design for residential, commercial, office, industrial, and business park projects.

B. Modified Standards. In order to serve the purposes set out in subsection (A) of this section, signs in an approved master sign program may deviate from the standards set out in this chapter, provided all requirements of this section are satisfied, except for prohibited signs.

C. Applicability and Review Authority. In order to serve the purposes set out in subsection (A) of this section, sign programs shall be required when expressly provided in this chapter or when required by an existing master sign program. In addition, owners of existing or future planned development projects may apply for approval of a master sign program pursuant to this section. Master sign programs shall be approved by the director, unless otherwise specified in this chapter. The director may refer the application to the city council if the director determines on a case-by-case basis that the public interest would be served by such referral.

D. Submission Requirements. In addition to the requirements of AVMC 15.34.070 (Sign permits), applications for master sign programs and for additions or modifications to master sign programs shall include the following materials:

1. A letter from the property owner and property management or property owner association approving the permit and/or master sign program and authorizing the applicant, if the applicant is not the owner, to submit the master sign program application on behalf of the owner.

2. A site plan showing the footprint of all buildings. The site plan shall include a vicinity map, the location of adjacent streets, the location of all proposed signs, and the location of existing signs on the site and their dimensions and square footages.

3. Drawings and/or sketches indicating the exterior surface details of structures on the site.

4. Building elevations with height dimensions, depicting accurately dimensioned signs.

5. Color drawings to scale, indicating the sign copy size, method of illumination, height, sign area and location of all identification signs, both freestanding and building-mounted.

6. Incidental signs, such as directional and traffic control signs, directory signs, address signs, etc., including size, location and design of each such sign.

7. A written set of design standards approved by the property owner and property management or property owner association.

8. A list of signs that would be prohibited by the master sign program.

9. A refundable cash bond, deposit or equivalent acceptable to the director of administrative services in an amount established by resolution of the city council, to ensure that construction is completed according to approved plans. Final inspection approval shall include installed landscaping where required.

10. Such other information as the director reasonably deems necessary to determine compliance with the provisions of this chapter.

E. Required Findings. The following findings shall be made by the decision-making authority prior to the approval of any master sign program or any master sign program amendment:

1. Common Theme. The signage follows a common theme, incorporating similar design elements in terms of materials, letter style, colors, illumination, sign type, and sign shape.

2. Materials, Colors and Design. The signage utilizes materials, colors, and design which reflect and are consistent with the architecture of the buildings.

3. Effective Identification. The signage provides effective identification of the applicable land use(s) to patrons and the general public.

4. Consistency with General Plan. The master sign program or master sign program amendment is consistent with the goals, policies and objectives of the general plan and any applicable specific plan.

5. Consistency with Zoning Code. The master sign program or master sign program amendment conforms to the zoning code and any applicable specific plan.

6. Compliance with CEQA. Processing and approval of the permit application are in compliance with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act.

7. Surrounding Uses. Approval of the application will not create conditions materially detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare or injurious to or incompatible with other properties or land uses in the vicinity.

F. Removal of Nonconforming Signs. For sites with existing signs, a schedule for bringing such signs into conformance with the approved sign program may become part of the approval. A cash bond may be required to guarantee the removal of nonconforming signs.

G. Amendments. Any additions or modifications to an existing master sign program shall be considered as an application to amend an adopted master sign program. As part of the application, the director may require any and all of the submittal requirements as listed in subsection (D) (Submission Requirements) of this section.

H. Previously Approved Master Sign Programs. Master sign programs approved by the city or by the county of Orange prior to the effective date of this zoning code shall remain valid and in effect for signs covered under such programs provided the signs conform to the program’s standards. Any future modifications may be approved by the director through the master sign program amendment process. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2014-161 § 4 (Exh. A); Ord. 2012-141 § 20; Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.100].

A. Continuation of Nonconforming Signs. A nonconforming sign is any permanent or temporary sign which was legally established and maintained in conformance with the provisions of all applicable laws in effect at the time of original installation, but which does not comply with the provisions of this chapter. Such nonconforming signs may be continued and maintained subject to AVMC 15.86.020(B), provided:

1. The sign is properly maintained and does not constitute a danger to the public; and

2. The sign was covered by a valid permit or variance or complied with all applicable laws on the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter.

B. Applicability and Rules. The provisions of this section shall apply to all nonconforming signs. In addition to all other applicable provisions of this chapter, a nonconforming sign shall not be:

1. Changed to another nonconforming sign or replaced by the same nonconforming sign.

2. Structurally or electrically expanded or structurally altered unless such alteration is designed to and does bring the sign into full conformance with all current provisions of this chapter, or increases energy efficiency.

3. Relocated on the same site or to any other property.

4. Reestablished after discontinuance of use for 90 days or more.

5. Reestablished after damage or destruction of more than 50 percent of the replacement value of the sign prior to said damage or destruction.

C. Off-Site Signs. Every off-site sign becoming nonconforming as a result of the adoption of this chapter must be removed in accordance with the Outdoor Advertising Act (California Business and Professions Code Section 5200 et seq.), within five years, unless a longer period of time is deemed necessary as determined by the director based upon the cost of the sign, its depreciated value, remaining useful life, remaining length of leases, and harm to the public if the nonconforming sign remains. The amortization period may be administratively appealed as provided for in AVMC 15.34.110. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2011-131 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.110].

A. Rules. Sign area shall be determined as follows:

1. Distinct Border or Boundary. For signs with a distinct border or boundary, the sign area shall be computed as the entire surface within the border, boundary, sign board, or sign face.

2. No Distinct Border or Boundary. For signs with no distinct border or boundary, the sign area shall be calculated by a simple rectilinear figure which contains all of the lettering or illustration on such sign.

3. Double-Sided Sign. The sign area of signs which have two identical faces, arranged back to back in parallel planes, shall be computed for one side only.

4. Multiple-Sided Sign. The sign area of signs which have more than one side but are not consistent with the standards for double-sided signs have a sign area equal to the sum of all sides. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.120].

Appeals on decisions pertaining to the provisions of this chapter shall be processed pursuant to the provisions of AVMC 15.70.080. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2012-141 § 21; Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.130].

A. Permitted Signs. Signs identified in the following table are permitted in nonresidential districts and in the nonresidential portions of specific plan and mixed-use developments subject to approval of a sign permit pursuant to AVMC 15.34.070:

TABLE 15.34.120:

PERMANENT SIGNS IN NONRESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS REQUIRING A SIGN PERMIT

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Additional Maximum Area Illumination Placement Number Height Requirements Free-Standing • Per street • 40 sq./ft. per • 6 ft. • Internal or • Sign copy shall be Monument ID frontage: sign, unless (including externally limited to one Signs: • 1 double- otherwise base). illuminated. business, center or faced sign; or provided in a major tenant identifying a master sign name; single-tenant • 2 single-faced program. • Projects must have building or a signs with 1 multi-tenant on either side at least 100 feet of building or of the project frontage where the complex. entry. sign is to be placed; • Each sign shall contain the street address in characters 5 to 7 in. high; • Sign shall be consistent with design of other signs located on building and/or in the same complex; • Electronic signs shall be permitted for associations with over 100 acres of aggregate area, colleges and government facilities1.

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Additional Maximum Area Illumination Placement Number Height Requirements Building-Mounted • 2 signs per • 1 sq./ft. per • Top of • Internal or • Each sign may Building building, each lineal building externally identify either the Identification unless foot of wall wall. illuminated; name of the (Wall) Signs otherwise frontage, up • Exposed building or a provided in a to a neon is major tenant, but master sign maximum of prohibited. no tenant shall program. 100 sq./ft. have over 100 per building sq./ft. aggregate of side. building-mounted signage of all types; • Individual channel letters, unless otherwise provided in a master sign program.

otherwise provided in a master sign program.

Building-Mounted • Per tenant Flush-mounted: • Top of • Internal or • Sign copy shall be Business frontage building externally limited to the Identification facing a street • Area: 1 wall. illuminated. business name, (Wall) Signs – and a sq./ft. per logo, registered Retail Use:2 common-use each lineal trademark, and/or identifying parking lot: foot of wall generic individual tenants, frontage up description of the businesses, or 1 flush-mounted; to 100 sq./ft. activity or other aggregate business, such as establishments. 1 under-canopy; or per tenant; a “barber shop” or minimum 24 “hardware”; 1 awning sign. sq./ft. is • Individual channel permitted letters only, unless • All above regardless of otherwise signs to count frontage. provided in a against • Maximum master sign allowed letter height: program; aggregate 18 in., with area. • Signs for one-half individual tenants tallest letter shall be centered of blank wall along lease/tenant around sign space; copy. • Wall sign copy shall be contiguous, with Under-canopy: words separated by no more than 3 • 6 sq./ft. ft., rather than spread over entire wall; • For single retail tenants larger than 20,000 sq./ft. in size, accessory signs may be permitted up to the total aggregate sign area; • Logos and/or registered trademark permitted adjacent to, or in lieu of, individual channel letters.

Building-Mounted • 1 sign per • Area: 1 • Top of • Internal or • Sign copy shall be Business lease or sq./ft. per building externally limited to the Identification tenant space, each lineal wall, illuminated; business name, (Wall) Signs – whichever is foot of wall below • Exposed logo and/or Multi-Tenant less. frontage up eave line; neon is registered to 100 sq./ft. or prohibited. trademark;

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Additional Maximum Area Illumination Placement Number Height Requirements Building with aggregate • Top of • Wall sign copy Exclusive Entries: per tenant; a floor shall be minimum of space for contiguous, with identifying 24 sq./ft. is ground- words separated individual tenants, permitted floor by no more than 3 businesses, or regardless of tenants. ft., rather than other frontage. spread over entire establishments. • Maximum wall; letter height: • Raceways are not 18 in. with permitted; one-half • Located on tallest letter building wall of blank wall below eave line, around sign parallel to the copy. wall; • Centered along lease space frontage; • Individual channel letters, unless otherwise provided in a master sign program; • Logos and/or registered trademark permitted adjacent to, or in lieu of, individual channel letters.

Building-Mounted • Maximum 3 Flush-mounted: • Top of • Internal or • Sign copy shall be Business signs per building externally limited to the Identification major tenant • Eyebrow wall; illuminated; business name, (Wall) Signs – and 2 per sign area: • Eyebrow • Exposed logo and/or Multi-Tenant minor tenant Up to 20 signs: 18- neon is registered Building with (1 sign per sq./ft.; in. prohibited. trademark; Shared Entry: tenant); • Parapet sign: maximum • Wall sign copy • 2 eyebrow 1 sq./ft. per character shall beidentifying signs per each lineal height; contiguous, withindividual tenants, building foot of wall • Parapet words separatedbusinesses, or elevation or 1 frontage up signs: 34 by no more than 3other parapet sign to 100 sq./ft. in. for one ft., rather thanestablishments. and 1 eyebrow aggregate line of spread over entire sign per per tenant; a copy and wall; building minimum of 48 in. for • Raceways are not elevation; 24 sq./ft. is two lines permitted; permitted • Only 1 of copy. • Located on regardless of parapet sign frontage; building wall may be within below eave line, 20 feet of a • Maximum parallel to the building letter height: wall; corner; 18 in. with one-half • Property • More than 1 tallest letter owner/rep to building sign height of determine which permitted on blank wall tenant is defined elevation if around sign as major. 1 major signs are copy. tenant allowed per horizontally building; separated by • Use of building at least 35% mounted building of the total identification building (wall) sign to perimeter or replace any not readily parapet sign seen at the allowed under this same time; section on the • Maximum of same elevation; 3 parapet

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Additional Maximum Area Illumination Placement Number Height Requirements signs per • Individual channel building. letters, unless otherwise provided in a master sign program; • Eyebrow signs shall be placed above tenant or building entrance. • Logos and/or registered trademark permitted adjacent to, or in lieu of, individual channel letters.

Directory Signs • 1 per entrance • 20 sq./ft. per • 6 ft. • Internal or • Signs are to be for Multi-Tenant to building or sign. (including externally designed and Buildings or complex. base). illuminated. oriented to direct Complexes: pedestrians and motorists entering exterior building- the building or mounted or complex. freestanding Gas/Service • 1 freestanding • 45 sq./ft. per • 6 ft. • Internal or • Monument signs Station Signs: sign per street sign. (including externally may be a frontage base). illuminated; maximum of 8 ft. identifying combining • Exposed wide; individual stations business neon is • Accessory signs or “combo” uses, identification prohibited. may be permitted which may and gas within the combine a gas prices. aggregate signstation with a car area;wash, convenience store, fast food • 1 wall sign per • 24 sq./ft. per • Top of • Internal or • Maximum number restaurant, etc. tenant per sign and an wall. externally and aggregate area street aggregate of illuminated; applies to all frontage. 100 sq./ft. • Exposed uses/buildings on for all neon is the site (gas building- prohibited. station, car wash, mounted fast food, etc.); signs. • Individual channel letters, unless • 2 signs per • 20 sq./ft. per • 24 in. otherwise fuel canopy. sign. provided in a sign program; • 1 sign per • Subject to • Internal or • The portion of street aggregate externally freestanding sign frontage may sign area. illuminated; dedicated to gas be permitted • Exposed prices may be on pump neon is digital copy but canopies. prohibited. must remain static.

Signs for Cinemas • 1 freestanding • 40 sq./ft. per • 6 ft. • Internal or • Limitations on and Live Theaters identification sign. (including externally electronic signs1 sign per street base). illuminated. excluding frontage. attractions board.

• 1 building- • 24 sq./ft. • Top of • Internal or
mounted sign plus 10 wall or externally
which may sq./ft. per above illuminated.
include an screen or ticket
attraction stage, up to a window.
board. maximum of
100 sq./ft.

• Building- • 10 sq./ft. • Top of • Internal or
mounted each. wall. externally
coming- illuminated.
attraction

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Additional Maximum Area Illumination Placement Number Height Requirements posters: 1 per screen or stage.

Community Signs1 Community announcement and community identification signs may be permitted subject to approval of a master sign program. If approved in the master sign program, such signs may be off-premises and may be permitted in the public right-of-way. In addition, community announcement signs may include attraction boards. 1 Electronic signs may contain changeable copy, but shall be limited to letters, numbers and logos. In order to mitigate distractions to motorists, no electronic or other signs may incorporate pictures, flashing copy, or animated visual effects. For projects less than 100 acres, sign copy shall be static (shall not scroll, crawl, dissolve or incorporate any other movement). For projects over 100 aggregate acres, electronic sign copy may be static or may scroll, crawl or dissolve.

2 Retail uses for the purposes of qualifying for Building-Mounted Business Identification (Wall) Signs – Retail Uses include all uses in the CT (town center commercial), CC (community commercial), CN (neighborhood commercial) and retail designated area within specific plan areas that meet the definition for retail in Chapter 15.94 AVMC.

[Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2015-165 § 4 (Exh. A); Ord. 2012-146 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.140].

A. Permitted Signs. Signs identified in the following table are permitted in residential districts and in the residential portions of specific plan and mixed use developments subject to approval of a sign permit pursuant to AVMC 15.34.070:

TABLE 15.34.130:

PERMANENT SIGNS IN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS REQUIRING A SIGN PERMIT

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Maximum Additional Illumination Placement Number Area Height Requirements Project • Freestanding • 40 sq./ft. • Top of wall • Individual • For complexes, Identification Signs: per sign. or 6 ft. if channel each sign shall Signs: freestanding. letters or contain the street per project entry: 1 indirect address in building-mounted double-faced sign lighting, characters 5 to 7 or freestanding. or 2 single-faced unless in. high. signs with 1 on otherwise either side of the provided in project entry; or a master sign program.

• Building-
Mounted
Signs: 2 per
project.

Directory Signs • 1 per entrance • 20 sq./ft. • Top of wall • Direct or • Signs are to be for Multi-Unit to building or per sign. or 6 ft. if indirect. designed and Buildings or complex. freestanding. oriented to direct Complexes: pedestrians and building-mounted motorists or freestanding. entering the building or complex.

[Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.150].

A. Permitted Signs. Temporary signs may be permitted throughout the city pursuant to this section. Such temporary signs shall require a sign permit in accordance with AVMC 15.34.070 unless exempt from permit requirements pursuant to AVMC 15.34.150. Banner signs and signs in the public right-of-way are prohibited unless expressly permitted in the following table:

TABLE 15.34.140:

TEMPORARY SIGNS REQUIRING A SIGN PERMIT

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Maximum Additional Illumination Placement Number Area Height Requirements Commercial • 1 per street • 24 sq./ft. • Top of wall or • None • Signs under 4 Real Estate frontage. aggregate 6 ft. if allowed. sq./ft. in area and 4 Signs: per side freestanding. ft. in height are and An additional exempt from sign building- building 2 ft. in height permit mounted or site. may be freestanding,

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Maximum Additional Illumination Placement Number Area Height Requirements advertising the permitted requirements per sale, lease, or with a AVMC 15.34.150; rental of corresponding • Signs shall be a nonresidential change in minimum 3 ft. from property upon grade. property line; which the sign is located.

The sign permit shall expire 1 year from the date of issuance or upon completion of the sale, lease or rental of the property, whichever occurs first. After 1 year, signs must be renewed through a new sign permit application.

Construction • 1 per future • 24 sq./ft. • Top of wall or • None • No construction Signs: building- operator and per sign for 6 ft. if allowed. sign shall be or fence- architect/ site less freestanding. erected until after mounted or contractor per than 1 acre; formal project freestanding, street • 48 sq./ft. approval by the placed on the site frontage. per sign for city; where site greater • All construction construction or than 1 acre. signs shall be renovation is in removed upon progress, issuance of the first identifying the certificate of owner, architect, occupancy for the or contractor. project.

Model Home • 8 per complex, • 16 sq./ft. • Top of wall or • None • Such signs are Complex unless per sign 6 ft. if allowed. permitted only in Identification otherwise and 40 freestanding. conjunction with Signs: building- provided in a sq./ft. the first sale of mounted or master sign aggregate homes in the freestanding. program. per project; complex, • Signs shall be unless placed only within otherwise the project provided in boundaries where a master the model home sign complex is located; program. • Expiration of the sign permit shall be specified in the permit.

Grand-Opening • 1 flush- • 24 sq./ft. • Top of wall. • Indirect. • Banner signs are and Going-Out- mounted sign per sign. permitted; of-Business per tenant • Such signs may be Signs: building- frontage along displayed 1 time mounted signs a street or a per establishment associated with parking lot. for up to 30 days; the opening or closing of a • Maximum two lines business, a new of text; owner or a major • Copy shall not refer remodeling to a specific under a building business, product, permit. or sale.

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Maximum Additional Illumination Placement Number Area Height Requirements Seasonal Banner • 1 per business • 12 sq./ft. • Top of wall, or • None • Banner signs are Signs: or other per sign. as determined allowed. permitted; establishment. by height of • Copy shall not refer in nonresidential light to a specific districts, either standards; business, product, building- free-standing or sale; mounted or banners shall freestanding on have a • Freestanding parking lot light minimum banners shall not standards. ground be mounted to traffic signals or clearance of street lights; 14 ft. • Reflective material or lettering is prohibited; • Signs attached to parking lot light standards permitted year- round if kept in good condition; • All other signs permitted for a continuous period of up to 30 days per 3-month period.

Special Event • 2 per parcel; • 12 sq./ft. • 6 ft. if • None • Banner signs are Signs on Private • A total of 6 per sign. freestanding. allowed. permitted; Property for signs per • May be posted no Nonprofit, event. sooner than 30 Noncommercial days before the Events: event, and shall be removed within 3building- days after themounted or event;freestanding. • No signs shall be placed upon private property without the express written approval of the property owner. All such signs shall be removed promptly upon the request of the property owner or occupant; • All signs shall include the name and telephone number or email address of the person or organization responsible for the sign.

Special Event • 2 horizontal • 24 sq./ft. • Height shall • None May be permitted in the Street Banners in banners or 20 for be as allowed. public right-of-way upon the Public Right- vertical horizontal determined approval of a sign permit of-Way for banners per banners; by height of subject to the following: Nonprofit, event. • 20 sq./ft. street lights; Noncommercial • Banner signs are for vertical • Banners shall Events permitted; banners. have a minimum • Banners shall not ground be mounted on clearance of traffic signal posts; 14 ft. • Banner copy shall not refer to a specific product;

Sign Type and Maximum Maximum Maximum Additional Illumination Placement Number Area Height Requirements • Reflective material or lettering is prohibited; • Permitted for a continuous period of up to 45 days/year; • Any street banner which becomes damaged shall either be repaired or removed within 24 hours; • Encroachment permit to be obtained from department of engineering/public works.

[Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2011-136 § 24; Ord. 2011-131 § 3 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.160].

A. Applicability. The signs listed in the following table are permitted without a sign permit, nor shall their area and number be included in the aggregate area or number of signs permitted for any premises or use. However, this exemption shall not be construed as relieving the sign owner of the responsibility of: (1) obtaining any building or other permits required for sign erection, if any; (2) proper sign maintenance; or (3) compliance with applicable provisions of this chapter or of any other law or ordinance. Exempt signs shall not be placed within any public right-of-way unless expressly permitted in this chapter.

TABLE 15.34.150:

SIGNS EXEMPT FROM SIGN PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

Maximum
Sign Type Placement Illumination Area

Note: In this table, “n/r” means no restriction

1. Vehicular directional signs to Building- 4 sq./ft. Direct or

identify on-site circulation and mounted or indirect.
street entrances and exits, freestanding.
excluding business identification,
maximum 3 ft. high if
freestanding.

2. Traffic, warning, directional or n/r; may be n/r. n/r.

informational signs required or placed in public
authorized by law or by a right-of-way.
governmental authority.

3. Official notices posted by any n/r; may be n/r. n/r.

court or public body or officer and placed in public
notices posted by any public right-of-way.
officer in the performance of a
public duty.

4. Property signs (e.g., “No Building- 2 sq./ft. Direct or Trespassing,” “No Parking,” etc.) mounted or indirect. and warning signs (e.g., “High freestanding. Voltage”), maximum 3 feet high if freestanding.
5. Signs located in the interior of any Building- n/r. n/r. building or enclosed or screened mounted or outdoor area, such as school or freestanding. college campuses, courtyards, and shopping malls, which are designed and located to be viewed exclusively from within such building or outdoor area.
6. Within residential districts, Building- 4 sq./ft. Indirect. address placards and nameplates. mounted. aggregate.
7. Within residential districts, Building- 8 sq./ft. Prohibited. incidental temporary seasonal, mounted. aggregate. holiday or decorative flags.
8. Within nonresidential districts, Window- or 4 sq./ft. Direct or incidental accessory signs and building- aggregate indirect.

Maximum Sign Type Placement Illumination Area placards (e.g., open/closed signs, mounted. credit card placards, help wanted signs, and similar). 9. Within nonresidential districts, Window or 8 sq./ft. Direct. incidental accessory neon signs. building- aggregate mounted. 10. Within nonresidential districts, Building- 2 sq./ft. Indirect. restaurant menu boards. mounted. aggregate 11. Within nonresidential districts, n/r. 8 sq./ft. Direct. vending machine identification signs. 12. National and state flags. Such Building- 24 sq./ft. Indirect. flags shall be limited to one mounted or per flag. national and one state flag per freestanding. premises. The flagpole shall not exceed the maximum building height nor be located within the required setback area for the zoning district in which it is located. 13. Temporary holiday murals, Building- n/r. Direct or scenes, or decorations painted on mounted. indirect. windows of a business displayed from Thanksgiving Day to New Year’s Day. The display shall not include references to particular products, services, sales, or commercial events. The use of fluorescent, “day-glo,” and neon colors is prohibited. 14. Tablets or dates of erection Building- 2 sq./ft. Indirect. mounted on or cut into the mounted or surface of a wall or pedestal. freestanding. 15. Signs located in public parks. Building- n/r. Direct or mounted or indirect. freestanding. 16. Window signage (fluorescent, Window. Up to 20 None. “day-glo” and neon colors are percent of prohibited, except as provided for the total above). window area on each building side. 17. Real estate signs and residential Pursuant to subsections (B) and (C) of this open house directional signs. section.

B. Exempt Small Commercial Real Estate Signs. Temporary real estate signs, including building-mounted and freestanding signs advertising the sale, lease, or rental of nonresidential property, are exempt from sign permit requirements subject to the following provisions:

1. Signs shall not exceed four square feet in area and a height of four feet if freestanding.

2. Signs shall be removed within 24 hours of the close of escrow or execution of lease.

3. No flags or balloons shall be displayed.

4. No rider shall be attached to the sign.

5. No more than one sign per available lease space or unit shall be permitted in single-story building, but in no case shall such signs be permitted above the ground floor in multistory buildings.

C. Exempt Residential Real Estate and Directional Signs.

1. Sale and Lease Signs. Temporary real estate signs, including freestanding and building-mounted signs, advertising the sale, lease, or rental of residential property, are exempt from sign permit requirements subject to the following provisions:

a. Such signs shall not exceed four square feet in area, and a height of four feet if freestanding, with the exception of single-family detached residences where colonial signs up to six feet in height shall be permitted.

b. Such signs shall be removed within 24 hours after close of escrow, lease, or rent.

c. No flags or balloons shall be displayed.

d. A rider not exceeding six inches in height by 24 inches in length or eight inches in height by 18 inches in length may be attached to the top of the sign.

e. Such signs shall be placed so that they do not obscure fire hydrants, traffic signs or traffic signals, block motorists’ line of sight, or otherwise inhibit or interfere with vehicular or pedestrian traffic.

f. No part of any sign shall be within three feet of the back of sidewalk, but in no event shall a sign be within three feet of the lot line.

g. Such signs shall be placed at the immediate entrance of the subject residential unit, with the exception of single-family detached residences, where such signs shall be placed only in the front yard of the subject property. Only one sign per available lease space or residential unit shall be permitted.

2. Directional Signs. Temporary off-site open house directional signs shall be permitted in residential districts subject to the following:

a. Signs shall not be permitted on public sidewalks, streets or medians, but may be placed in public parkways outside of the first two feet of the parkway. In addition, an owner of real property or his/her agent may display the sign on real property owned by another with that owner’s prior consent.

b. Signs shall not exceed four square feet in area, and a height of three feet, including the vertical post.

c. Signs are only permitted to be posted during the time an owner or owner’s agent is on the premises and the premises are open for viewing.

d. The signs shall be installed no earlier than 8:00 a.m. and removed no later than sunset.

e. The signs shall not be installed in a manner which creates a hazard to traffic or pedestrians.

f. No flags, pennants, balloons, A-frames, or other attention-attracting devices shall be displayed.

g. Up to two signs may be placed at an intersection.

h. The maximum number of signs per event shall be six. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.170].

Any sign permitted pursuant to this chapter may be used for the display of an ideological, political or other noncommercial message; provided, that in no event shall the height, length, character, or total square footage of the sign exceed that permitted by this chapter. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.180].

A. Prohibited Signs. Unless expressly permitted elsewhere in this chapter, the following signs are prohibited in the city:

1. Any off-premises sign or sign advertising a business not on the property upon which the sign is placed.

2. Billboards or outdoor advertising signs.

3. Any sign that encroaches upon any public property or within any public right-of-way.

4. Flashing, animated or pulsating signs, laser lighting or searchlights.

5. Signs which conflict with or imitate any traffic control device due to color, wording, design, location or illumination, or which interfere with the safe and efficient flow of vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic.

6. Signs which emit sound, odor, or visible matter.

7. Rotating signs or other signs with mechanical movement.

8. Roof signs.

9. Projecting signs, unless approved as part of a master sign program.

10. Pole signs.

11. Signs oriented toward a freeway unless approved pursuant to AVMC 15.34.120.

12. Human signs which: (a) display, offer for sale or vending or otherwise make available any goods and/or products; or (b) are used to attract attention to a commercial premises.

13. Banners, flags and pennants, unless expressly permitted pursuant to this chapter or otherwise approved in a master sign program.

14. Balloons, kites, streamers, spinners, festoons, windsocks, valances, or other such advertising devices or displays.

15. Inflated signs, animals or other figures, or other inflatable displays, whether tethered or not.

16. Signs which constitute a nuisance or hazard due to their light intensity.

17. Abandoned Signs. Such signs shall be abated pursuant to AVMC 15.34.040.

18. Neon signs or other neon lighting displays inside or outside a building visible from streets, parking areas or site boundaries, unless expressly permitted pursuant to this chapter or approved as part of a master sign program.

19. Window signs, except as expressly permitted pursuant to this chapter or as required by law.

20. Off-site garage or yard sale signs, circulars, posters or other such sign or displays unless permitted by a special event permit pursuant to Chapter 11.05 AVMC.

21. Any sign outlined with individual light bulbs or strings of lights.

22. Portable signs and sandwich board signs (including A-frame signs), unless approved as part of a master sign program, but in no event shall be visible from a public right-of-way.

23. Signs which are closer to overhead utility lines or utility structures than the minimum distance prescribed by California law or by the rules duly promulgated by agencies of the state or by the applicable public utility.

24. Signs installed, relocated, or maintained in a manner which prevents free ingress to or egress from any door, except those signs required by the municipal code.

25. Painted wall signs, unless approved by the city council as part of a master sign program or specific plan.

26. Advertising statuary, unless approved by the city council as part of a master sign program or specific plan.

27. Any sign affixed to any vehicle or trailer on a public right-of-way or public property, unless the vehicle or trailer is being used in its normal business capacity and not for the sole purpose of attracting people to a place of business. All such vehicles used as part of a normal business activity shall be stored on private property. This prohibition is not intended to prohibit typical business identification lettered on a motor vehicle or construction trailer.

B. Enforcement. Any person who erects or causes to be erected any prohibited sign without express approval by the city is subject to the enforcement provisions of the municipal code. [Ord. 2019-209 § 3 (Exhs. A, B); Ord. 2010-126 § 1 (Exh. A); Ord. 2010-123 § 3 (Exh. A). Formerly 15.34.190].

1 Cross-references: graffiti removal, Chapter 8.14 AVMC; advertising on parked vehicles, Chapter 9.08 AVMC; newsrack regulations, Chapter 10.02 AVMC.